Never Perfect

Parenting is hard, and ADHD parents like Dr. Beth have unique challenges and strengths. Most parents with ADHD are aware of how it hinders them, but have you ever thought about the ways it benefits your kids?   Revealing  examples: Ever found a rotting sandwich in your kid's lunchbox weeks after they packed it? Been the parent cutting it dangerously close on the school run, again? If parenting sometimes feels like too much and the guilt piles up faster than the laundry, this episode is the pep talk you didn't know you needed. In this heartfelt solo episode, Dr. Beth shares a story of young single mom who was being hard on herself for not being "regimented" enough. Drawing on her own twenty years of parenting with ADHD, plus a research-backed article that left her feeling seen and understood, Dr. Beth reframes the ADHD brain as a package deal of real strengths and real challenges. She offers a warm, practical path forward built on self-compassion, gentle structure, and the freedom to parent in a way that actually fits how you're wired. Hopefully you will find what Dr. Beth calls your  Package Deal of  Strengths and Weaknesses, specifically in the parenting realm.   What you'll learn in this episode: Why accepting your "package deal" of strengths and weaknesses is the first step toward less guilt and more confidence The camp counselor metaphor that makes routines feel calming and settling instead of rigid and restrictive How small systems, like emptying the lunchbox or setting a bedtime alarm, save hours of stress down the road Simple ways to "externalize your memory" using timers, visual cues, and intentional planning The surprising strengths of ADHD parents, from creativity and empathy to hyper-focus when it matters most Why giving yourself grace to skip what you hate, and lean into what you love, makes you a more present parent How to spot and celebrate the unique "superpowers" in each of your children Before you go: If today's episode spoke to you, take a deep breath and remember: you're not failing, you're figuring it out. Give it a listen, sit with the parts that hit home, and share it with a parent who needs the reminder that they're doing better than they think. You were never meant to be perfect. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you an introvert or an extrovert  or, like most of us, somewhere in the messy, wonderful middle? We love to sort ourselves into neat personality boxes, but what if the truth is far more fluid, changing with the day, the people, and the moment we're in? In this warm and unscripted episode, Dr. Beth Capecchi hands the mic to her sharp, funny 17-year-old daughter for a real conversation about how we're wired to connect. Episode Overview Recorded on a spontaneous car ride  right after dropping off supplies for her older kids at college Dr. Beth and her daughter Brynne dig into the introvert-extrovert spectrum and quickly discover it's anything but simple. Together they explore what actually recharges us, why some people process out loud while others retreat inward, and how the same person can crave a packed rivalry week and then crave a long, quiet shower alone. Brynne pushes back on the labels themselves, sparking a thoughtful back-and-forth about authenticity, over-diagnosis, and the difference between being "fake" and simply being considerate of how we come across. It's an honest, funny, refreshingly real look at self-understanding across two generations. What You'll Learn The real difference between introverts, extroverts, and ambiverts  and why almost everyone lives somewhere on the sliding scale A powerful relationship question Dr. Beth asks her clients: "What percentage of your emotional needs do you expect other people to fill?" Why "recharging your battery" looks different for everyone  and how the people you're with can matter more than the activity The distinction between external and internal processing, and how to know which things you'd rather talk out versus think through alone The tension between authenticity and approachability  being real without unintentionally coming across as cold or "unfriendly" Why labels and diagnoses can be both helpful and overused, and how to hold them with curiosity instead of judgment How understanding these differences builds grace, connection, and less miscommunication in families and relationships Guest Information This special episode features Brynne, Dr. Beth's insightful and quick-witted 17-year-old daughter, who brings a refreshingly candid teenage perspective to a topic most of us are still figuring out well into adulthood. Her willingness to question, push back, and think out loud makes this one of those rare, genuine conversations that feels like eavesdropping on a really good family talk. Learn more from Dr. Beth Capecchi and the Never Perfect Podcast: Website: www.neverperfect.org Explore more episodes on growth, resilience, faith, relationships, and mental health Follow the Never Perfect Podcast on your favorite platform and connect with Dr. Beth through the website above Whether you refill your cup in a crowded room or a quiet corner, this episode is a gentle reminder that there's no single "right" way to be. Take a listen, reflect on what truly recharges you, and give yourself  and the people you love, a little more grace for being wired differently. If this conversation resonates, share it with someone who's still figuring out what makes them tick. Because you are never perfect and you were never meant to be. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if the most outgoing, confident person in the room is also the most anxious? We tend to picture anxiety as someone visibly shrinking back but for many people, it wears a smile, works the room, and never lets on how hard it's fighting underneath. In this episode, Dr. Beth Capecchi sits down with Nick, a warm, high-energy young man whose easy confidence hides a daily battle most people never see. Episode Overview Dr. Beth first met Nick at a car dealership, struck by how naturally engaging and self-assured he was, never guessing the anxiety and depression he quietly carries. In this candid conversation, Nick opens up about high-functioning anxiety, the exhaustion of always "getting in front of it," and the toll of constantly trying to control the uncertainty around him. Together they explore why confidence and anxiety so often coexist, how transition stress can leave even capable people feeling like they're running on empty, and why learning to give ourselves grace may be the bravest work of all. It's an honest, encouraging look at what it really takes to keep showing up when your own mind is your toughest critic. What You'll Learn Why outward confidence and social ease can mask deep, invisible anxiety and why "you don't seem anxious" can feel so isolating Nick's "get in front of it" strategy for facing social fear head-on, and how "grabbing the bull by the horns" builds real coping confidence How transition stress, like starting a new job can overwhelm the brain and why you can't expect yourself to run at 100% The double-edged sword of anxiety that both propels you forward and quietly wears you down Dr. Beth's key question for anyone who pushes too hard: "What is healthy and best for me right now to push through, or to protect my energy?" The freeing idea of being "twice exceptional"  where a diagnosis like anxiety or ADHD is both a struggle to carry and a genuine gift Why self-compassion and grace for others and for ourselves may be the most important skill of all Guest Information This episode features Nick, a courageous therapy client of Dr. Beth's who generously agreed to share his story on the show. As a client rather than a public figure, Nick keeps his personal channels private but his openness offers listeners something rare: an unfiltered, real-life window into what high-functioning anxiety actually feels like from the inside. Learn more from Dr. Beth Capecchi and the Never Perfect Podcast: Website: www.neverperfect.org Related episode mentioned: When to Push and When to Protect Book referenced in this episode: Do One Thing Every Day That Scares You Follow the Never Perfect Podcast on your favorite platform and connect with Dr. Beth through the website above for more on growth, resilience, faith, and mental health. If you've ever smiled through a hard day, pushed yourself past exhaustion, or felt like no one sees how much effort it takes just to look "fine", this episode is for you. Give it a listen, take a breath, and let it remind you to offer yourself a little more grace today. If Nick's story speaks to you, share it with someone who needs to hear that they're braver than they realize. You are never perfect  and you were never meant to be. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever felt that quiet ache when a friend never calls first, a sibling doesn't plan, or someone forgets your birthday year after year? It's so easy to read that silence as rejection, to decide you're forgotten, boring, or not worth the effort. But what if the story you're telling yourself simply isn't true? In this candid, recorded-on-the-go episode, Dr. Beth Capecchi unpacks why some people are natural initiators and others simply aren't and why that difference is almost never a measure of love. Drawing on a recent client session and her own honest confessions, Beth walks through ten common reasons people don't reach out, from poor executive functioning and introversion to fear of rejection and never having seen connection modeled at home. Along the way, she gently challenges the egocentric lens we all fall into assuming others should love us the exact way we love them and invites us to name our needs instead of nursing our wounds. What you'll learn in this episode: The ten most common reasons people don't initiate and why "they don't like me" rarely makes the list How to recognize your own relational superpowers (and why being an outlier can leave you feeling overlooked) The difference between passive and active quality time, and how to feel loved by people who show up quietly Why the best predictor of behavior is past behavior and how to lovingly ask for change anyway Dr. John Gottman's wisdom on giving people a "roadmap" to how you need to be loved How embracing imperfect hospitality and connection frees you and everyone around you to stop waiting for perfect If you've been carrying hurt over someone who doesn't pursue you the way you long for, let this episode be a gentle reset. Press play, take a breath, and consider that you may be more loved than you realize just in a language you haven't been listening for. Then share it with the friend, sibling, or fellow initiator who needs the reminder that they're not too much, and they're not forgotten. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever stood at a crossroads, unsure whether to push yourself forward or pull back and protect your peace? We make these calls every day, go to the gathering or rest, ask for support or stay silent, face the hard thing or avoid it. But how do you know which choice will help you grow and which will cost you? In this heartfelt solo episode, Dr. Beth Capecchi explores the tension between pushing yourself out of your comfort zone and honoring your need for boundaries. Drawing on two real client stories, a man weighing his health against showing up for a friend, and a woman deciding whether to risk vulnerability with her siblings. Beth unpacks how fear quietly shapes our decisions, why we so often underestimate ourselves, and how the willingness to be vulnerable can open doors to the very support we need. What You'll Learn: How to tell the difference between healthy self-protection and fear-driven avoidance Why we tend to overestimate the challenge in front of us and underestimate our own strength The hidden power of vulnerability and why people can't support you if they don't know you need them How to make decisions rooted in long-term health rather than short-term fear or people-pleasing Why facing grief, instead of storing it away, is essential to healing A compassionate reframe for when others let us down and we don't know their full story If you're facing a decision and don't know whether to push or protect, this episode is for you. Take a listen, sit with what resonates, and share it with someone who might need permission to trust themselves a little more today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

⚠️ Content Warning: This episode discusses suicide, trauma, PTSD, and addiction. If you're struggling, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline), available 24/7 in the U.S. What if the person who seems most "put together" is quietly falling apart? Craig looked like he had it all, a successful pharmacy career, nearly forty years of marriage, three grown sons, and a firefighter's badge. But behind the grounded exterior was a man wrestling with PTSD, alcoholism, a decades-long pornography addiction, and a night in October 2024 when he nearly ended his life. In this deeply honest conversation, Dr. Beth Capecchi sits down with Craig (joined by his wife, Cindy) to trace how cumulative trauma, from witnessing his brother's murder at age ten to eight years of adrenaline-fueled firefighting calls, slowly rewired his brain and eroded his marriage. It's a raw, redemptive story about how the strongest-looking people often carry the heaviest secrets, and how naming the pain is the first step toward healing. What You'll Learn: Why PTSD isn't always one catastrophic event  and how "cumulative trauma" quietly builds until it breaks you How childhood wounds resurface and amplify later trauma, even decades after you think you've "moved on" The science of a nervous system stuck in overdrive  why Craig's amygdala "never turned off" and what that did to his sleep, memory, and anger How addiction often begins as an attempt to self-soothe unbearable symptoms  and why self-compassion matters alongside accountability The warning signs first responders and their families should never ignore, including the sobering statistics on PTSD and suicide in fire and EMS How faith, therapy, and the right treatment can coexist  and why healing is a process, not a magic cure About the Guest:  Craig Scheel is a longtime pharmacist and former career firefighter and lieutenant who served an engine company in Catoosa County, Georgia. Alongside his wife of forty years, Cindy, he now shares his story openly to help others struggling in silence with trauma, addiction, and thoughts of suicide  and to remind them that transformation is possible. Wherever you are today, this episode is a reminder that you are never as alone as you feel and that even the deepest pit isn't the end of the story. Take a listen, sit with it, and if it moves you, share it with someone who might need to hear that healing is possible. Continue the conversation on the Never Perfect Faith podcast, where Craig opens up about the redemption that changed everything. Learn more at neverperfect.org. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

⚠️ Content Warning: This episode discusses suicide and suicide attempts, including a teen's overdose, as well as depression and addiction. If you're struggling, call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline), available 24/7. What do a lonely thirty-seven-year-old, a courageous teenage girl, and a firefighter who nearly ended it all have in common? Each one looked like they were doing fine on the outside  and each was quietly fighting a much harder battle underneath. In this heartfelt Friday-evening reflection, Dr. Beth Capecchi opens up her notebook of "stories waiting to be told." Fresh off three deeply moving therapy sessions, Dr. Beth shares three anonymized client journeys that left her inspired. From a man learning to build real friendships and rediscover his God-given gifts, to a seventeen-year-old who survived a suicide attempt and is now bravely reaching out again, to a preview of a firefighter whose trauma and transformation you'll hear in full on upcoming episodes, these stories are a tender reminder that struggle is often invisible, and healing is always possible. What You'll Learn: Why so many people  especially men  struggle with loneliness, and practical ways to build genuine community How to recognize and affirm the unique gifts in the people around you, especially as a parent, friend, or mentor Why a healthy relationship should expand your calling, not shrink it Dr. Beth's philosophy of "the greatest good for the most people" How multiple painful losses can converge into a crisis and why understanding this builds compassion The courage it takes to reach out again after being bullied, isolated, or broken A moving preview of a firefighter's PTSD and faith journey featured on upcoming episodes Wherever you are today, may these stories remind you that you're not alone, that your struggles don't define you, and that it's never too late to reach out. Take a listen, sit with it, and share it with someone who might need a little hope this week. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Where do you fall on the assertiveness scale — doormat, brutally honest, or somewhere in between? In this completely unscripted episode, Dr. Beth turns the microphone on her own household… and her family does not hold back. What starts as a Saturday-morning kitchen cleanup becomes a hilariously honest (and surprisingly insightful) family therapy session. Recorded spontaneously from her farmers-market-cluttered kitchen, Dr. Beth sits down with her 16 year old daughter and then her 18 year old daughter and husband wandering in along the way to rate each other on assertiveness, reactivity, people-pleasing, and more. (The only one who never joined the conversation was her 20-year-old son.)   Between the laughter, interruptions, and sibling commentary, real wisdom emerges: why "being clear is kind," how people-pleasing blurs your own needs, why every family member processes conflict differently, and whether perfectionism is actually a problem (a debate that gets spirited). It's Never Perfect at its most literal: a real family, in real time, being really honest. In this episode, you'll learn: The 1-10 assertiveness scale and why landing between a 4 and 6 is the healthy sweet spot The three components of true assertiveness: expressing your feelings, saying no, and asking for what you need How people-pleasing and codependency blur your own needs and stress you out in the process Why we project our own standards onto others (and how that quietly damages relationships) The difference between high standards and perfectionism and where all-or-nothing thinking hurts your mental health Why parents should never put a child in just one "box" every family member has strengths and growth areas About This Episode's Guests: This episode features Dr. Beth's own family, proof that even a therapist's household is beautifully, chaotically, never perfect. No experts, no scripts, just a family being honest with each other (sometimes brutally). Connect with Dr. Beth Capecchi and the Never Perfect Podcast at www.neverperfect.org. And for a deeper dive on assertiveness, check out the earlier episode "Straight Talk." Ready to rate yourself? Hit play, grab a family member (if you dare), and ask: where do we each fall on the scale? If this episode made you laugh or think, share it with your family and leave a review, it helps more listeners find the show! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever skipped a coffee shop, a walk in the park, or even church,  just because you'd have to go alone? For so many of us, the fear of being watched, judged, or talked about keeps us from living the life we actually want. But what if the thoughts we imagine others having about us are the very thing holding us back? In this brief, spontaneous and deeply honest episode, Dr. Beth sits down with a brave 25-year-old client we're calling "Mary." Fresh out of a breakup and new to her city, Mary shares how social anxiety is what Dr. Beth calls "spotlight syndrome"  kept her from exploring life on her own. Then she took one courageous step: walking into church by herself. What happened next changed her entire outlook, and this conversation captures that transformation in real time. In this episode, you'll learn: What "spotlight syndrome" is and why social anxiety convinces us everyone is watching and judging How to challenge automatic negative beliefs by asking, "What positive things could people be thinking?" Why the question "Even if someone did think something bad how would it actually affect me?" is so freeing How facing one small fear can build momentum, confidence, and even carry you through an entire week Why doing things alone can actually open the door to new friendships and community The power of the simple challenge: do one thing every day that scares you About Our Guest: Out of respect for her privacy, this week's guest is sharing her story anonymously as "Mary", a real client of Dr. Beth's who bravely agreed to record just weeks after facing her fear for the first time. Her honesty is a gift to anyone who has ever felt held back by the fear of judgment. For more encouragement and resources from Dr. Beth Capecchi, visit www.neverperfect.org. You can do hard things. If Mary's story resonated with you, we'd love for you to listen, reflect on one thing you've been avoiding out of fear — and maybe take that first brave step this week. Don't forget to share this episode with someone who needs the reminder that they're braver than they think. 💛 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever felt like your dreams are just out of reach, like you're doing all the right things but somehow still scattered, stretched thin, and unsure if it's working? What if the secret isn't doing more, but learning how to do what you already know? In this episode, Dr. Beth sits down with serial entrepreneur, media powerhouse, and dear mentor Deborrah “Deb” Drummond, a woman who has built seven businesses, mentored hundreds of women (and also  “cool dudes”) around the world, and lives by the belief that your body is your "most important real estate." Deb opens up about saying yes when life pushes you forward, the difference between a "journey" and "the stretch," and why most people are unintentionally "popcorning" their efforts instead of building with purpose. She explains that while our dreams and our Mission might be exciting and “sexy “, the tedious steps that it takes to get there are often not sexy, and not as dramatic as one might think. From a surprise pregnancy in her twenties that launched her first business, to building Mission Accepted Media and the celebrated 262 movement for women entrepreneurs, Deb shares the wisdom of a life lived intentionally  and the faith it takes to keep choosing your path. What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why "pick your hard" is the most freeing reframe for entrepreneurs and dreamers alike How to recognize when you're "popcorning" your efforts and how to build a real intentional plan instead The difference between what you do and who you do (and why people buy the second one) How small, consistent baby steps create exponential growth over time Why your body, your inputs, and your community matter as much as your strategy How to build a team  and a life rooted in shared values, not just shared skills About Our Guest: Deb Drummond is the founder and visionary behind Mission Accepted Media, the Stand Up, Speak Up, Show Up Yes You women's summits, the Women's Channel, and the bestselling 262 book series spotlighting self-funding women entrepreneurs. A long-time coach, speaker, and media strategist, Deb helps women and the cool dudes in their corner become known not just for what they do, but for who they are. Connect with Deborrah Website: debdrummond.com Podcast: Mission Accepted Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deborahldrummond If you've ever felt overwhelmed by all the "somedays" stacking up on your dream list, this conversation is your permission slip to begin imperfectly, intentionally, and one beautiful baby step at a time. Listen in, take a breath, and remember: you don't have to be perfect to be powerful. If this episode encourages you, share it with a friend who needs to hear it today, and join us at www.neverperfect.org for more conversations on growth, faith, and the courage to keep showing up. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if menopause isn't an ending, but the beginning of your finest self? In Japan, the transition is called Konenki — the season of renewal and regeneration, a "second spring" that elevates women into a higher stature of wisdom and influence. Yet here in the West, nearly a third of women consider quitting their careers at the very height of their power, convinced that brain fog, anxiety, and hormonal chaos mean something has gone terribly wrong. Dr. Beth welcomes back Dr. Suzannah (Suz) Bozzone, a board-certified family and lifestyle medicine physician, educator, and opera singer — for an honest, hope-filled deep dive into perimenopause and menopause. Together they unpack the science of the hormonal "orchestra," the neuroplastic transformation of the menopausal brain, and the practical lifestyle shifts that help women not just survive this transition, but step into a new chapter of clarity, leadership, and authentic becoming. What You'll Learn: Why perimenopause is a brain transformation — like puberty in reverse — and what the temporary three-year dip really means for the decade that follows How to picture your hormones as a vocal trio inside a full endocrine orchestra, and why "one pill for every ill" falls short The Japanese concept of Konenki and how reframing this season as renewal, not loss, changes everything The gut–hormone connection: how your microbiome and "estrobolome" shape symptoms, and why 30+ plant species a week matters more than any single superfood Dr. Suz’s signature "crazy salad" — the daily, medicine-like meal that supports estrogen balance Why midlife women are uniquely positioned to lead, and how to advocate for yourself at home, at work, and at the doctor's office About the Guest Dr. Suz Bozzone is a board-certified family and lifestyle medicine physician, speaker, and mom of three who partners with workplaces and women's groups nationwide. Her e-book and journal Chronic Power to Perimenopause releases late May 2026.  Connect with Dr. Suz: Website: drsuzb.com Instagram: @drsuzb YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@drsuzb Get Konenki: Power to Perimenopause and Beyond If you're navigating puberty in your kids, perimenopause in yourself, or new caregiving roles with aging parents — this episode is a gentle reminder that you are not losing your mind. You are becoming. Press play, take what resonates, and share this with a friend, daughter, mother, or colleague who needs to hear that her finest self is still ahead. Visit neverperfect.org for more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hidden heartaches and secret struggles with addiction are everywhere, including in the church.  What if the family that looks the most "put together" on Sunday morning is the one quietly falling apart by Monday night? Behind matching pajamas, anniversary posts, and small-group Bible studies, so many women are carrying a secret heartache they can't bring themselves to name out loud. In this honest, hope-filled conversation, Dr. Beth sits down with author and women's ministry director Jody Allen to talk about what happens when the marriage you prayed for, prepared for, and did "everything right" to build still doesn't turn out the way you imagined. Jody shares the long, painful road of loving a husband who battled a pornography addiction throughout their marriage, a struggle she discovered was far more common in the church than anyone wanted to admit. From discovery, to counseling, to a treatment center, to the eventual decision to divorce, Jody walks listeners through what God taught her in the valley, why she chose to write Hidden Heartache, and how she found that her life, though different than she planned, could still be deeply good. What You'll Learn: Why so many "hidden heartaches" — addiction, financial stress, mental health struggles, family secrets — worsen in silence, and how telling the truth begins to break shame's grip The staggering statistics about pornography use in the church (including among pastors) and why this conversation can't stay taboo any longer How to parent intentionally around screens, social media, and early exposure — especially when you've walked a hard road yourself Why "comparison is the thief of joy," and how to stop measuring your hardships/heartaches against everyone else's highlight reel The role of Scripture, the Holy Spirit, and Christian community in rewiring a brain — and a heart — that has been hurt Why hope is still possible when life doesn't turn out the way you planned, and how God can use even your hardest season to build your future About the Guest Jody Allen has served on staff at her church for over 12 years, where she leads the First Impressions Team and Women’s Ministry. She is the author of Hidden Heartache: Finding Courage When Your Husband Struggles with Pornography, a book that helps women move from heartbreak to hope. Jody is passionate about helping women experience meaningful connection with Christ and with one another. She is the mom of young adult twins, loves chunky ice cream, still uses a paper calendar, and never turns down a chance to line dance.  Connect with Jody: Book: Hidden Heartache Website: jodyallenwrites.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/jodyallenwrites Instagram: www.instagram.com/jodyallenwrites/ Whether you're walking through your own hidden heartache or sitting beside someone who is, this episode is a reminder that you are not alone — and that God meets us most powerfully in the places we feel most broken. Press play, take a deep breath, and let this conversation remind you: your story isn't over, and hope is still on the table. If it speaks to you, share it with a friend who needs to hear it today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when the version of you that worked so hard in the morning of life no longer fits the afternoon? When the criticism becomes too heavy, the certainty starts to crack, and your body quietly tells you it's time to listen differently? For David Cook, a beloved teacher, longtime columnist, and founder of Food as a Verb — the answer began with silence, humility, and the courage to turn over his own stones. In this deeply honest conversation, Dr. Beth sits down with David Cook to explore burnout, self-righteousness, shadow work, parenting through fear, the inner work of masculinity, and how contentment quietly outlasts every metric of success. David shares the moment he realized he had been "blinded by the log in his own eye," what teenagers are really aching for today, and how he rebuilt a life — and a media company — around food, story, and presence. What You'll Learn Why fear (not failure) is the hidden root of most parenting and teaching mistakes — and what to do about it How shadow work and "turning over your own stones" leads to deeper relationships and clearer purpose What David means by descending "below the neck" — and why so many men have never been invited to do it How to redefine success as contentment, generational healing, and a freer version of who you are Why trust, safety, and powerful questions transform a classroom (and a home) more than control ever could The "rhino in the room" practice — learning to name what no one else is willing to say out loud About the Guest David Cook is a writer, former English teacher at McCallie School, GPS, and Saint Margaret's, and the founder of Food as a Verb — a Chattanooga-based media company telling rich, soul-level stories about food, farming, chefs, and the land. His work invites readers to slow down, exhale, and remember what it means to be human at the table. Connect with David Cook Email: david@foodasaverb.com Website: foodasaverb.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/foodasaverb/ If you've ever felt the quiet pull of midlife asking you to choose again, or wondered whether the rules you've been playing by still fit who you're becoming, this episode is for you. Press play, take a breath, and let David's words remind you that freedom, meaning, and a truer version of yourself are still waiting on the other side of your honesty.  If this conversation moves you, share it with someone who needs to hear it — and visit neverperfect.org for more conversations that celebrate growth, faith, and the beautiful imperfection of being human. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if the very things that made you successful were quietly destroying you from the inside out? Paul Hutchinson built a $50 billion empire, married an NFL cheerleader, and rescued thousands of children from trafficking — yet found himself emptier than ever. In this raw and remarkable conversation, he reveals how the same darkness he was fighting in others (arrogance, greed, and lust) had quietly taken root in his own heart. Dr. Beth sits down with entrepreneur, philanthropist, and child rescue advocate Paul Hutchinson — the real-life inspiration behind Sound of Freedom — for an unflinching conversation about transformation. Paul shares the story behind 70+ undercover rescue missions, the late-night phone call that began his journey of healing, and the powerful truth that we can't pull children out of hell until we pull the hell out of ourselves. What You'll Learn: Why the common thread among traffickers isn't what you'd expect — and what it reveals about unhealed trauma in all of us How generational and epigenetic trauma shapes us long before we're old enough to remember The science of neuroplasticity and why childhood wounds become so hard to heal as adults Why doing "good things" with the wrong motives can quietly destroy your life, marriage, and identity How to take a personal inventory of arrogance, greed, and lust — and what real healing actually requires Practical tools (breathwork, meditation, faith, self-defense, art therapy) for healing children and adults walking through trauma About Our Guest: Paul Hutchinson is an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and the primary investor and executive producer of the film Sound of Freedom. He founded the Child Liberation Foundation and Liberating Humanity, and has led or participated in over 70 undercover rescue missions in 15 countries — directly impacting more than 8,000 children. He is a recipient of the 2022 Medal of Freedom Award. Today, alongside his wife Vanessa, he hosts sanctuary healing retreats around the world for trauma survivors, leaders, and those ready to break free of what's holding them back. Website: liberatinghumanity.com Book: Sound of Freedom  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liberating.humanity YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Liberatinghumanity Whether you've walked through trauma, struggled with what success was supposed to feel like, or sensed that God is calling you toward something deeper — this episode is for you. Take a listen, share it with someone who needs hope today, and remember Paul's closing reminder: when you put the man (or woman) together, the whole world comes together with you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if the pain you've been carrying isn't actually yours to keep? What if your body — every ache, every heaviness, every story it whispers — is asking you for something different than what you've been giving it?  In this conversation, Dr. Beth sits down with trauma release practitioner Pearly Montagu, whose rare gift of seeing emotional and physical pain as colors and structures inside the body emerged after a profound near-death experience at age 29. Pearly shares the unexpected detour from a corporate finance career to a calling rooted in deep healing work, walking through her own journey of chronic pain, plant medicines, and surrender. Together, she and Dr. Beth explore how the body stores trauma — including the trauma we inherit from generations before us — and how shifting our narrative, our habits, and our fears can move us from pain to purpose. It's a tender, expansive conversation on faith, fear, food as medicine, the dying process, and the everyday rituals that keep us aging with grace. What You'll Learn Why 95% of cancers can be prevented through lifestyle — and the simple morning and evening rituals Pearly swears by (turmeric chai, lemon water, miso, and more) How to build new habits that actually stick by piggybacking them onto what you already do The truth behind the body's seven-year renewal cycles and why pain often surfaces right on schedule How to stop identifying with your pain and rewrite the story your body is rehearsing The role of generational trauma in the patterns we keep repeating — and how to release what was never yours to carry Why community, not just nutrition or exercise, is one of the strongest predictors of a long, joyful life About the Guest  Pearly Montagu is a TEDx speaker and trauma release practitioner whose rare form of synesthesia — discovered after a near-death experience — allows her to perceive emotional and physical trauma in the body as colors and structures. Combining this gift with somatic and energy-based healing training, she now supports clients worldwide and has worked alongside leading voices in integrative health, including Dr. Nasha Winters and Dr. Zack Bush. Connect with Pearly: Website: manderley.org Instagram: @a.pearly.way.of.life If you've ever felt stuck in a chapter of pain — physical, emotional, or inherited — this episode is your gentle nudge that healing is possible, and it doesn't have to look like anyone else's. Take a breath, press play, and let this conversation meet you where you are. If something here lands, share it with a friend who needs to hear it too. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The majority of  individuals struggling with addiction experience a mix of shame and self-hatred, but does this improve their chances for getting healthy and sober? Accountability is essential, but self understanding and self compassion are as well. What if the path to healing isn’t choosing between accountability or compassion—but learning how to hold both at the same time? Sometimes rewriting the stories and narratives behind our addiction helps us identify risk factors and underlying mental health issues that increase susceptibility to our addictive  behaviors.  So many people struggling with addiction are caught in a painful cycle of shame, guilt, and self-blame… but what if that very shame is keeping them stuck? In this powerful and honest episode, Dr. Beth explores the delicate balance between taking responsibility for our choices and extending ourselves (or our loved ones) the compassion needed to truly heal. Through a real-life client story, she unpacks the difference between making excuses and understanding root causes—and why that distinction is critical in breaking free from addiction and preventing relapse. What You’ll Learn: The crucial difference between excuses and explanations in recovery Why shame and self-hatred often fuel addiction instead of stopping it How anxiety, loneliness, and unresolved pain contribute to substance use The danger of “quick fixes” vs. the power of long-term healing strategies Practical ways to balance personal responsibility with self-compassion How understanding root causes can help prevent relapse and promote lasting change If you’ve ever struggled with shame, self-blame, or watching someone you love battle addiction, this episode is for you. Tune in, reflect deeply, and consider how compassion and accountability can work together to create real, lasting healing. And if this message resonates, share it with someone who needs hope today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if healing isn’t about fixing yourself—but learning how to come back into balance? So many of us push through stress, pain, and overwhelm, searching for quick solutions… but what if real transformation begins when we slow down, listen, and reconnect with what truly matters? In this powerful and deeply human conversation, Dr. Beth sits down with Dr. Lisa Piper and Wendy Cohn-Osborne, co-founders of CODE Health. With backgrounds spanning natural medicine, spirituality, law, and entrepreneurship, their journeys are vastly different—yet beautifully aligned in one shared mission: helping others rediscover healing through balance, awareness, and purpose. From trauma and spiritual exploration to reinventing life and career in their 50s, this episode explores what it truly means to care for your mind, body, and soul in today’s fast-paced world. What You’ll Learn: How trauma and life challenges can become a catalyst for growth and purpose Why true healing starts with awareness—not perfection The concept of “living in neutrality” and how it creates peace of mind How mindset, stress, and emotional balance impact your physical health Why small, sustainable habits matter more than extreme changes How gratitude and perspective can transform the way you experience life Why it’s never too late to reinvent your life, health, and calling About our Guests: Dr. Lisa Piper, Ph.D., DNM, is a Board-Certified Doctor of Natural Medicine and a pioneer in holistic health, integrating science, spirituality, and mind-body healing. As co-founder of CODE Health, she leads innovation in bioenergetic therapeutics and is passionate about empowering individuals to take control of their well-being through conscious, integrative practices. Wendy Cohn-Osborne is a seasoned entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience across legal, medical, and business industries. As co-founder of CODE Health, she brings a practical and accessible approach to holistic wellness, helping translate complex health concepts into real-life solutions that support everyday people. Together, they are also the hosts of The C3 Podcast (CODE Conscious Conversations), where they explore conscious living, personal growth, and the future of wellness. Connect with them: Website: www.codehealthshop.com Podcast: The C3 Podcast – CODE Conscious Conversations Instagram: @codehealthshop Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/codehealthshop To learn more about CODE Health, visit https://codehealthshop.com/?ref=Neverperfectpodcast and use code neverperfectpodcast at checkout to receive 10% off regular-priced items. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or out of balance, this episode is your reminder: you don’t have to have it all figured out to begin healing. Take a breath, tune in, and share this episode with someone who needs a little more peace, clarity, and hope today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when college becomes overwhelming… and avoidance takes over? If you’ve ever felt behind, anxious, or unsure how to get back on track—this conversation will remind you that you’re not alone, and it’s not too late. In this honest and encouraging episode, Dr. Beth sits down with Holden, a 22-year-old college student navigating ADHD and the intense transition into college life. From falling five weeks behind in assignments to catching up and regaining confidence, Holden shares what truly helped him shift his mindset, take action, and move forward. Together, they unpack the realities of college adjustment, the hidden challenges of ADHD, and the courage it takes to ask for help. What You’ll Learn: Why college can feel like a “boot camp” of independence—and how to adjust How ADHD impacts motivation, avoidance, and overwhelm The power of speaking up before things spiral further Practical strategies to catch up when you feel far behind Why “done is better than perfect” can change everything How to discover your personal “user’s manual” for success in college If this episode resonated with you, take a moment to reflect on where you might need support—and remember, progress matters more than perfection. Share this episode with a student or parent who needs encouragement today, and keep showing up, one step at a time. 💛 We need your help! This podcast is funded by Dr. Beth, and we are looking for donations from listeners and potential sponsors. If you’re interested in contributing, you can send donations via Venmo (⁠https://account.venmo.com/u/NeverPerfectPodcast⁠) or email ⁠neverperfecteya@gmail.com⁠ to find out other ways to donate. Listen to this episode and more: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠neverperfect.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow us on instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@neverperfectpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠neverperfectbeth@gmail.com⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

About our Guests: Elena is a mother of a young adult son with autism spectrum disorder . She shares their journey of diagnosis, adapting, and advocating with patience and love. Rylee is an 18-year-old who shares her own  experience of being diagnosed with autism, offering insight into the inner world of sensory sensitivity, social challenges, and self-discovery. For many families and individuals, autism can feel confusing, isolating, and overwhelming—but it can also reveal unexpected beauty, strength, and purpose. In this heartfelt and eye-opening episode, Dr. Beth Capecchi sits down with Elena  and Rylee to explore real-life experiences of living with autism spectrum disorder—from both a parent’s and a young adult’s perspective. Together, they unpack the challenges of sensory overwhelm, social struggles, and misdiagnosis, while highlighting the power of acceptance, self-awareness, and faith in navigating a different kind of journey. What You’ll Learn: How autism often shows up in everyday life (beyond stereotypes) The emotional impact of feeling “different” and how to find belonging Practical ways to support sensory overwhelm and emotional regulation The importance of accurate diagnosis vs. self-diagnosis How parents can shift from control to compassion and connection Why embracing neurodiversity can unlock confidence, resilience, and purpose 🔗 Learn more about Dr. Beth Capecchi and the Never Perfect mission: Website: https://www.neverperfect.org If you’ve ever felt misunderstood, overwhelmed, or unsure of how to support someone you love—this episode is for you. Tune in, reflect with compassion, and share this conversation with someone who needs a reminder: different doesn’t mean broken—it means beautifully human. 💛 What if the behaviors we misunderstand the most are actually invitations to deeper compassion? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if the very thing you’ve struggled with most could become your greatest strength? What if your obstacles weren’t holding you back—but actually preparing you for your purpose? In this powerful and inspiring episode of the Never Perfect Podcast, Dr. Beth Capecchi sits down with keynote speaker and world-class impressionist John Di Domenico. From a childhood marked by economic disadvantage, family conflict, ADHD, and a severe speech impediment, John shares how he transformed adversity into a thriving career on some of the world’s biggest stages. Through resilience, faith in his calling, and a commitment to growth, he reveals how your voice—both literally and metaphorically—can shape your confidence, connection, and influence. What You’ll Learn: How to turn personal struggles into strengths that set you apart Why your voice—not just your words—shapes confidence and credibility The hidden dangers of comparison in today’s social media world Practical ways to move through negative thinking and mental “funk” Why failure is essential for growth—and how to reframe it How small, meaningful human connections can transform your day (and someone else’s) About our Guest: John Di Domenico is a keynote speaker, host, and world-class impressionist who has mastered over 200 voices and performed on some of the world’s biggest stages. After overcoming a childhood speech impediment, he now helps professionals and leaders elevate their communication, confidence, and impact through the power of voice. His keynote, Winning Voice: The Lasting Impression, blends entertainment with actionable strategies for real-world communication. Connect with JohnnyDShow! Website: thejohnnydshow.com Instagram: @thejohnnydshow Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/johndidomenicocomedy Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/didonyc TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thejohnnydshow If you’ve ever felt held back by your past, your struggles, or your perceived limitations—this episode is for you. Tune in, reflect on your own journey, and consider: what if your “imperfections” are actually your greatest gifts? Don’t forget to share this episode with someone who needs encouragement today. Listen to this episode and more: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ neverperfect.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow us on instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ @neverperfectpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ neverperfectbeth@gmail.com⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if the way we grow and choose our food could change not only our physical health—but our mental well-being too? Many of us feel disconnected from where our food comes from, yet the journey from soil to plate has a profound impact on our bodies, our communities, and even our emotional health. In this episode of the Never Perfect Podcast, Dr. Beth Capecchi sits down with farmer and entrepreneur Neil Smith to explore the powerful relationship between nutrition, agriculture, and mental wellness. Neil shares his journey from growing up on a farm to launching Grow United, a global platform focused on restoring trust in our food systems and supporting farmers worldwide. Neil used his economic success after selling a business to forge his inspiring life work which is difficult to do justice to. His life mission incorporates an incredible combination of farming, mental health, nutrition, banding together to build community and support networks for farmers, educating laymen about farming and nutrition, etc.  Together, Beth and Neil dive into why modern society has become disconnected from food, how that disconnect affects both consumers and farmers, and what small changes we can make to improve our health and reconnect with nature. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why nutrition plays a critical role in mental health and emotional well-being How being disconnected from our food sources impacts both consumers and farmers The surprising link between farming culture, isolation, and farmer mental health Simple ways to shop smarter and eat more nutritious, whole foods Why local and seasonal food choices can make a meaningful difference How small lifestyle changes can improve health, resilience, and community connection About the Guest Neil Smith is a lifelong farmer, entrepreneur, and the founder of Grow United, a platform designed to reconnect farmers and consumers while creating more resilient and transparent food systems. Through his work, Neil advocates for better nutrition, stronger agricultural communities, and innovative solutions to challenges facing farmers today. Connect with Neil Smith Website: https://growunited.com Podcast: Pasture Prime Time Shop: https://thenourishmart.com/shop/ Instagram: instagram.com/thegrowrenaissance If this conversation inspires you to rethink your relationship with food, take one small step this week—learn where something you eat comes from, try a new whole food, or support a local farmer. And if you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend and subscribe to the Never Perfect Podcast with Dr. Beth Capecchi. Together, we can grow healthier lives—one conversation at a time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when faith is manipulated, truth is twisted, and the people you love most are turned against you? In this powerful episode, author and former sports broadcaster Peter Young shares the deeply personal story of how he unknowingly became entangled in a destructive religious cult—and how faith ultimately helped him find freedom and healing. Dr. Beth Capecchi sits down with Peter to explore his remarkable life journey—from college basketball and broadcasting to a devastating spiritual and personal crisis. Peter opens up about how a manipulative “family guru” slowly gained control over his marriage, faith, and family. Through heartbreak, loss, and rock-bottom moments, Peter discovered profound lessons about discernment, humility, and the true nature of faith. His story is both a cautionary tale and a testimony of God’s redemptive power. What You’ll Learn in This Episode How spiritual manipulation and cult dynamics can subtly infiltrate everyday life The warning signs and red flags of destructive religious leadership Why vulnerability and isolation make people susceptible to cult influence The difference between authentic Christian faith and manipulative spiritual control How faith, community, and truth can help someone recover after deep betrayal Why sharing our failures and struggles can become powerful testimonies About the Guest Peter Young is an author, storyteller, former sports broadcaster, and real estate broker living near Bozeman, Montana. After a career that included college basketball, coaching, and broadcasting for networks like ESPN, Peter now focuses on writing and sharing stories that explore faith, resilience, and personal transformation. His memoir recounts his experience surviving a destructive cult and rebuilding his life. Connect with Peter Young Website: https://authorpeteryoung.com Memoir: Stop the Tall Man, Save the Tiger Novels: Blue Team and Wardrobe of the Wolf Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and other major retailers If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who might need encouragement or clarity in their faith journey. Remember—you don’t have to be perfect to experience transformation. Sometimes our hardest seasons become the very stories that help others find hope. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Never Perfect, Dr. Beth sits down with Brad Walsh—best-selling author and host of the top-rated podcast Empowerography—to explore how purpose often unfolds in unexpected ways. Together, they discuss how childhood experiences, life’s challenges, and career detours can merge to reveal a calling later in life. At age 50, Brad Walsh felt like he had won the lottery when the winding roads of his life finally converged at one powerful intersection—his life’s purpose. As a young boy, Brad was deeply inspired by the strength, sacrifice, and resilience of the two women who shaped his heart and worldview: his mother and grandmother. Their influence stayed with him throughout his life, even as his career took many unexpected turns. Brad began as a photographer focused on landscapes and architecture, traveling extensively for work before eventually landing in the corporate world. But a seemingly simple assignment—taking professional headshots—changed everything. Through the lens of his camera, Brad began connecting with women one-on-one, hearing their stories and witnessing their vulnerability, courage, and beauty. He often describes this experience as being allowed to “sit in the passenger seat” of their lives. Those conversations sparked something deeper within him: a calling to help women see their strength, worth, and voice. Then the COVID pandemic arrived, bringing the kind of pause many people faced. Brad realized he had two choices: complain and shut down, or use the unexpected gift of time to build something meaningful. He chose the second path. During that time, he launched into podcasting, writing, and speaking—creating platforms that elevate and amplify women’s voices, stories, and gifts. Brad’s story powerfully normalizes something many people feel anxious about: purpose doesn’t always show up early. Sometimes it takes decades of living, learning, and listening before the pieces finally come together. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why finding your purpose later in life can still mean you’re exactly on time How to move through fear, comparison, and perfectionism The importance of being seen—and why women’s voices deserve amplification Why self-care isn’t selfish, but essential for mental well-being How celebrating small wins can create powerful momentum If you’ve been waiting until you feel ready, fearless, or “good enough,” this episode is your reminder: You don’t need perfect conditions to begin. Start small. Start scared. Start messy. Just start. Because what’s meant for you won’t pass you—but you do have to show up for it. Follow Brad Walsh on Instagram: @empowerographypodcast , and learn more at his website. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when a world-class macromolecular scientist—who engineered innovations for NASA and the US Army—reaches the breaking point of burnout? You don’t just heal; you decode the biology of joy. In this powerhouse episode of Never Perfect, Dr. Beth sits down with Dr. Mamta Bhatt, a scientist and executive consultant for J&J and Nike turned holistic wellness pioneer. After spending 20 years in a monastery, Dr. Bhatt synthesized her rigorous scientific background with ancient wisdom to create a revolutionary healing protocol to get herself well after years of being bedridden. Now she helps clients globally. From reversing 25-year insomnia to resolving chronic metabolic issues in just months, her results speak for themselves. If you have ever felt that your worth is tied to your "doing," or that rest is something you must "earn," this conversation is your biological "permission slip" to stop. Together, we explore: The NASA high achiever Perspective: How high-pressure created from within impacts the nervous system at a macromolecular level. The Science of Frequency: Why the words you speak have a physical, measurable impact on cellular health. The Achievement Trap: Identifying the "self-critique" hidden within the "strong one" archetype. The 3-Month Shift: Real-world case studies of total health transformation through protocol and presence Dr. Mamta Bhatt is a best-selling author, a 10-time featured guest on CBS and NBC, and a keynote speaker at the 2026 World Biohacking Event this November. Read her Books: Journey for Joy Recipes for Joy Work with Dr. Bhatt: Instagram :https://www.instagram.com/thejoyfulscientist?igsh=MXE1d2FsNGk1d3hvYQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr 💛 We need your help! This podcast is funded by Dr. Beth, and we are looking for donations from listeners and potential sponsors. If you’re interested in contributing, you can send donations via Venmo (⁠https://account.venmo.com/u/NeverPerfectPodcast⁠) or email ⁠neverperfecteya@gmail.com⁠ to find out other ways to donate. 🎧 Listen to this episode and more: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠neverperfect.org⁠ 📲 Follow us on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@neverperfectpodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What is “wellness,” really—and how do we know who’s credible in a world full of modalities, certifications, and strong opinions?  In this episode, Dr. Beth sits down with Lawrence Ellyard, founder of the International Institute for Complementary Therapists (IICT) and the International Institute for Reiki Training, to explore what complementary care is (and isn’t), why healing doesn’t have to be medicine versus natural therapy, and how ethical standards help protect both practitioners and the people seeking care. Together, they dive into how environment, relationships, habits, mindset, and intention all play a role in healing. Lawrence introduces the ORABED framework, a powerful way to understand the difference between living with ownership, responsibility, and accountability versus falling into blame, excuses, and denial. The conversation weaves practical wisdom with humility, humor, and real-life examples—reminding us that growth isn’t about being perfect, but about showing up with courage and clarity. What You’ll Learn What “complementary” and holistic therapy actually mean—and what they don’t Why wellness works best when medicine and natural therapies work together How accreditation and ethical standards protect both clients and practitioners The ORABED framework and how mindset shapes empowerment or victimhood Why environment, relationships, and daily habits matter as much as treatments How intention, accountability, and community support real behavior change Why growth requires patience, humility, and a beginner’s mind—not perfection How to be intentional about what you consume—physically, mentally, and emotionally Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if we used money like a mirror in order to discover what your spending, saving, or your avoidance of financial matters reveals? What if the way you handle money isn’t about discipline or intelligence—but about what you learned growing up?  In this episode of Never Perfect, Dr. Beth sits down with Doug Lynam, TEDx speaker, author, former Marine, Benedictine monk, and now money manager. He's been featured in The New York Times, CNBC, Entrepreneur, and The Street. He's guided clients from Main Street to Hollywood and worked with businesses and faith communities across the county. Doug is the author of two books: From Monk to Money Manager: A Former Monk's Financial Guide To Becoming a Little Bit Wealthy—And Why That's Okay and Taming Your Money Monster: 9 Paths To Money Mastery With The Enneagram. Doug’s unlikely journey took him from Marine → Benedictine monk (for 20 years) → money manager and financial coach. Along the way, Doug discovered that money is rarely just about numbers. It’s about attachment, fear, shame, control, and the stories we carry from childhood. Today, Beth and Doug explore how our early experiences shape an anxious or avoidant relationship with money, why some people obsessively control finances while others avoid looking at them altogether, and what it means to develop a healthy attachment to money instead. Doug shares how he uses the Enneagram and attachment theory to help people identify their “money monsters” and align their financial habits with their deepest values. They also touch on ADHD, people-pleasing, rejection sensitivity, spiritual bypassing, and the way unhealed money trauma gets passed from one generation to the next—unless we choose to face it. This is a conversation about making peace with money, letting go of shame, and learning to use money as a tool for love, service, and freedom—without needing to be perfect. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What do you do when life tells you there’s no future left to plan for? In this powerful episode of Never Perfect, Dr. Beth sits down with Sean Swarner, a two-time terminal cancer survivor who was once given just days to live—and went on to redefine what’s possible. With one lung, Sean became the first cancer survivor to climb Mt Everest and the only person in history to climb the highest mountain on every continent and ski to both the North and South Poles. There’s a reason Sean was voted one of the 8 most inspiring people of all time; he is a living testament to resilience. Given 14 days to live, he emerged as the first cancer survivor atop Everest, scaling all seven continents' peaks, skiing to both Poles, and completing the Hawaii Ironman World Championship. Beyond milestones, he founded The Cancer Climber Association, wrote "BECOMING UNSTOPABLE: Conquering Your Everest" and is a sought-after speaker. From crawling in a hospital to Everest's summit, Sean's journey inspires globally. Join him in defying odds and sharing his powerful message worldwide. Today Sean shares how shifting his focus from not dying to fully living changed everything. He also explains his distinction between “true summits” and “false summits”. Together, he and Dr. Beth explore resilience, identity, mental health, and the courage it takes to keep choosing life—especially when the odds say you shouldn’t. This episode explores: Turning impossible diagnoses into purpose-driven living Why failure is information, not identity Mental health, fear, and meeting life one minute at a time How redefining “possible” can transform everything 💛 We need your help! This podcast is funded by Dr. Beth, and we are looking for donations from listeners and potential sponsors. If you’re interested in contributing, you can send donations via Venmo (⁠https://account.venmo.com/u/NeverPerfectPodcast⁠) or email ⁠neverperfecteya@gmail.com⁠ to find out other ways to donate. 🎧 Listen to this episode and more: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠neverperfect.org⁠ 📲 Follow us on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@neverperfectpodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why does college feel so much harder than you expected it to be? This episode is about the struggles associated with adjusting to college, but many of the themes are universal and apply to other life stages and transitions as well.  Some of the biggest challenges in life involve managing expectations and dealing with disappointment. These challenges often come into play when you’re navigating unknowns and big milestones such as going to college, developing new relationships, getting a new job, and more. College can be one of the biggest transitions of your life—new routines, new expectations, new environments, new friendships… and often a lot of grief under the surface. Many college students may be grieving their high school experience, missing old friends and family, and feeling overwhelmed by a new environment. Depression, anxiety, and loneliness are very common, especially during the first semester. However, some people do great at first, and difficult emotions may appear later as the novelty wears off and reality sets in. In today’s episode, you’ll hear the story of one student who almost transferred near the end of her first semester of college. So for those of you struggling in college—or with any phase of life—please remember: YOU ARE NOT ALONE ❤️ Tessa is currently a junior in college, but she had a very difficult first semester and was seriously talking about transferring when things started to turn around. She shares how her first semester didn’t match what she expected, how it impacted her confidence, and why she felt like something must be wrong with her when it seemed like everyone else was having more fun. Dr. Beth and Tessa talk about how long it can take to build real friendships, how to handle uncomfortable social situations and loneliness, and why giving yourself time (often a full year) can make a huge difference. As you’ll find out in this episode, struggling doesn’t mean you made the wrong choice—it often means you’re right in the middle of adjusting. This episode is for anyone who feels behind, left out, or overwhelmed by the pressure to “love college immediately.” Never lose faith that things can get better and that you have so much to offer others and the world. Also remember: things are often not the way they appear on social media. Social media is full of false impressions and false advertising, and most people don’t post their lonely or anxious moments on Instagram. Some of the best advice from today’s episode: open up, share your struggles with others, reach out, and invite people to do things. It can change their lives—and it can change yours. When you start sharing, you often find that you’re not alone, and others feel less alone too. Life is very hard and incredibly beautiful at the same time. Share your unique and beautiful self with the world. You will find your people and your place—so never give up. 🙏 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this solo episode, Dr. Beth dives into a topic that touches every relationship we have—navigating differences, competing needs, and the tension between togetherness and independence. From dating to long-term marriage, friendships to family life, differences are inevitable—but how we think about them can make all the difference. Using real client conversations, personal reflections, and everyday examples, Dr. Beth explores questions we often avoid but desperately need to ask: How much do you expect your partner to fulfill you? How much independence do you need to feel like yourself? What happens when the traits you once loved start to frustrate you? This episode covers: Competing needs and agendas in relationships Togetherness vs. individuality (and why there’s no “right” formula for achieving this) Why expecting one person to meet all your needs can backfire How honeymoon phases shift into real life—and what to do next Practical questions to help couples prepare for inevitable differences This is a realistic, compassionate conversation meant to spark reflection—not perfection. Whether you’re dating, married, or simply trying to understand yourself better in relationships, this episode offers food for thought, cognitive shifts to help with processing and accepting divergent needs and agendas , and tips for communicating about these struggles. 💛 We need your help! This podcast is funded by Dr. Beth, and we are looking for donations from listeners and potential sponsors. If you’re interested in contributing, you can send donations via Venmo (⁠https://account.venmo.com/u/NeverPerfectPodcast⁠) or email ⁠neverperfecteya@gmail.com⁠ to find out other ways to donate. 🎧 Listen to this episode and more: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠neverperfect.org⁠📲 Follow us on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@neverperfectpodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Dr. Beth tackles a topic she’s deeply passionate about—but has taken time to approach thoughtfully: conflict avoidance and peacemaking. While peacemakers often value kindness, harmony, and sensitivity, avoiding hard conversations can quietly erode relationships over time. Using real client stories, personal insight, and research from experts like Drs. John and Julie Gottman, Beth explores why holding things in often leads to resentment, emotional shutdown, or explosive anger—and how “being nice” can actually be a disservice to both yourself and the people you love. This episode covers: What it really means to be a peacemaker or conflict avoider How internalizing/“ under-reacting” can lead to  overreacting/exploding  Why honesty is often more loving than keeping the peace How avoiding conflict impacts respect, intimacy, and connection Practical ways to speak up without being aggressive Why clarity, boundaries, and assertiveness strengthen relationships If you tend to put your needs last, fear uncomfortable conversations, or pride yourself on being “easygoing,” this episode is a compassionate but challenging invitation to find your voice, advocate for yourself, and build healthier, more honest relationships. 💛 We need your help! This podcast is funded by Dr. Beth, and we are looking for donations from listeners and potential sponsors. If you’re interested in contributing, you can send donations via Venmo (⁠https://account.venmo.com/u/NeverPerfectPodcast⁠) or email ⁠neverperfecteya@gmail.com⁠ to find out other ways to donate. 🎧 Listen to this episode and more: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠neverperfect.org⁠ 📲 Follow us on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@neverperfectpodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Dr. Beth sits down again with relationship expert Dr. Carol Stoney to explore one of the most common phrases couples use to describe their relationship: “We’re just not compatible.” Instead of couples seeing their differences as signs of failure, they unpack what actually lies beneath that thought—discouragement, unmet connection, and the skills we never learned but desperately need in relationships. Together they dive into: Why compatibility isn’t about agreeing on everything What happens when life stress wears down the “insulation” of congratulation Practical habits that rebuild connection (eye contact, reassurance, warm touch) How to tell disappointment from rejection The real math of healthy relationships (positive interactions vs. negative ones) If you’ve ever wondered whether differences mean you chose the wrong person—or whether love should feel easier—this episode offers a grounded, hopeful reframing and actionable insights for loving through incompatibilities. Listen, reflect, and grow together. 💛 We need your help! This podcast is funded by Dr. Beth, and we are looking for donations from listeners and potential sponsors. If you’re interested in contributing, you can send donations via Venmo (⁠https://account.venmo.com/u/NeverPerfectPodcast⁠) or email ⁠neverperfecteya@gmail.com⁠ to find out other ways to donate. 🎧 Listen to this episode and more: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠neverperfect.org⁠ 📲 Follow us on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@neverperfectpodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why is it so hard to start the things we know we need to do? In this quick, solo, and spontaneous episode, Dr. Beth shares practical ADHD-friendly strategies to break through procrastination without shaming yourself or waiting for perfect motivation. Using real-life examples from her own school days and a recent session with a late-twenties client, she talks about why big-picture thinkers with ADHD struggle to break tasks into small steps, how perfectionism fuels putting things off, and why “all-or-nothing” workouts and work plans backfire. You’ll hear simple and helpful strategies such as: Creating fake deadlines and using accountability Setting 10-minute timers to make getting started easier Embracing Brené Brown’s “shitty first draft” instead of expecting the first draft to be nearly perfect Pairing boring tasks with something enjoyable Picking the right setting to get into a productive zone 💛 We need your help! This podcast is funded by Dr. Beth, and we are looking for donations from listeners and potential sponsors. If you’re interested in contributing, you can send donations via Venmo (⁠https://account.venmo.com/u/NeverPerfectPodcast⁠) or email ⁠neverperfecteya@gmail.com⁠ to find out other ways to donate. 🎧 Listen to this episode and more: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠neverperfect.org⁠ 📲 Follow us on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@neverperfectpodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Dr. Beth sits down with her friends Amanda (a business owner) and Stephanie (a therapist) to tackle a tough, real-world question: How do you talk about a diagnosis with someone who doesn’t want one—especially when daily weed, anger outbursts, or past substance use are in the mix? Through the story of a 30-something creative with possible bipolar disorder, they unpack self-medication (the classic “upper, downer, mood-stabilizer” pattern), why partners and employers draw hard lines (“it’s legal” ≠ “it’s okay at work”), and how shame keeps talented people from becoming their best selves. You’ll hear practical, compassionate ways to: Frame diagnosis as information, not identity Explain the bipolar spectrum (including agitated/hypomanic presentations) Explore roots vs. band-aids: trauma, lifestyle, and biology Talk with spouses about the real costs of daily use and rage cycles Use simple next steps (e.g., the MDQ screen, treatment options, boundaries) Honest, stigma-cutting, and immediately useful—for therapists, leaders managing teams, partners who are worried, and anyone wondering whether a label might actually unlock a path forward. Note: This conversation is educational and not medical advice. If you have concerns about mood or substance use, please consult a licensed professional. 💛 We need your help! This podcast is funded by Dr. Beth, and we are looking for donations from listeners and potential sponsors. If you’re interested in contributing, you can send donations via Venmo (⁠https://account.venmo.com/u/NeverPerfectPodcast⁠) or email ⁠neverperfecteya@gmail.com⁠ to find out other ways to donate. 🎧 Listen to this episode and more: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠neverperfect.org⁠📲 Follow us on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@neverperfectpodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special role-reversal episode, Beth hands the mic to her longtime friend of 40+ years, OB-GYN Dr. Patricia “Tricia” McClelland—a familiar voice on the podcast from past episodes on hormones and menopause. This time, Tricia interviews Beth, asking the questions Beth usually asks everyone else. Together they dive into the values that quietly steer Beth’s life—love, kindness, community, authenticity, using your gifts to help others, and treating everyone with dignity—plus how her Christian faith gives her peace with her own imperfections. Beth opens up about parenting three kids close together, her journey with ADHD, and how chronic people-pleasing and weak boundaries left her exhausted (and what she’s doing differently now). They talk honestly about: Growing through hard seasons like early motherhood How ADHD shows up as procrastination, overwhelm, and “inconsistent attention” Practical tools for focus in a distracted, social-media-driven world Boundaries, FOMO, and the myth that you can keep everyone happy Food, body image, and talking to kids about health without shame Self-care that actually fits real life: yoga, friendship, faith, and small doable practices If you’ve ever felt like you’re supposed to have it all together while secretly struggling, this conversation will make you feel seen, normal, and a little more hopeful. 💛 We need your help! This podcast is funded by Dr. Beth, and we are looking for donations from listeners and potential sponsors. If you’re interested in contributing, you can send donations via Venmo (⁠https://account.venmo.com/u/NeverPerfectPodcast⁠) or email ⁠neverperfecteya@gmail.com⁠ to find out other ways to donate. 🎧 Listen to this episode and more: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠neverperfect.org⁠ 📲 Follow us on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@neverperfectpodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if your pain is real—and also not the whole story? In this episode, Dr. Beth sits down with two “pain whisperers” who bridge medicine and recovery: Dr. Matt McClanahan, an osteopathic physician (Neuromusculoskeletal & Family Medicine; Center for Insight Medicine), and Joe Timberlake, a 35-year sober addictions specialist and chronic-pain coach. Together, they explore how the brain processes danger—physical and emotional—in the same places, why neuroplasticity can both help and hurt us, and how grief, stress, and identity conflicts can keep alarms blaring long after tissues have healed. You’ll hear why “pain × resistance = suffering,” how fear (not pain) is often the real treatment target, and why changing our relationship to symptoms (curiosity over panic, safety over threat) can downshift nervous-system alarms. Beth shares her own recent back injury amid the loss of her father, and the three unpack how context, attachment, and meaning shape the “pain experience.” We get practical too: reframing, paced return to movement (yes, yoga!), breath-led state shifts, and the difference between coping vs. retraining for neuroplastic pain. If you’ve ever thought, “I just want an answer,” this conversation offers one that’s both compassionate and empowering: your pain is real—and there’s more hope than you’ve been told. Perfect for listeners who… Live with chronic pain, migraines, or panic flares Are navigating grief, stress, or recovery Want brain-based, skills-based ways to feel safer in their body 💛 We need your help! This podcast is funded by Dr. Beth, and we are looking for donations from listeners and potential sponsors. If you’re interested in contributing, you can send donations via Venmo (⁠https://account.venmo.com/u/NeverPerfectPodcast⁠) or email ⁠neverperfecteya@gmail.com⁠ to find out other ways to donate. 🎧 Listen to this episode and more: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠neverperfect.org⁠ 📲 Follow us on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@neverperfectpodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Parenting teens isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence, honesty, and learning to let go. In this conversation, Beth welcomes Randi Crawford, a straight-talking parenting coach who brings humor, vulnerability, and decades of life experience to the table. From co-founding a women’s health company with her father to becoming an empty-nester, Randi shares her journey of reinvention and what it taught her about resilience, grit, and independence. Together, they dive into: Why letting kids sit in discomfort is a gift (not punishment) How to practice “tough love” without the toughness The importance of listening without trying to fix Modeling imperfection and apologizing as parents Why communication is the #1 tool for building trust with teens This episode is both refreshing and relatable—reminding us that our kids are not an extension of us, but their own people. If you’ve ever wrestled with how much to guide, when to step back, and how to stay connected through it all, this conversation is for you. 👉 To learn more about Randi, go to Randicrawfordcoaching.com 💛 We need your help! This podcast is funded by Dr. Beth, and we are looking for donations from listeners and potential sponsors. If you’re interested in contributing, you can send donations via Venmo (https://account.venmo.com/u/NeverPerfectPodcast) or email neverperfecteya@gmail.com to find out other ways to donate. 🎧 Listen to this episode and more: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠neverperfect.org 📲 Follow us on Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@neverperfectpodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Figs o’Sullivan and his wife Teale are marriage therapists and relationship experts who developed the Empathi method. They are the architects of the Empathi Method and they think of themselves as “wounded healers and fellow strugglers.” Figs takes a casual approach in his work with couples and see himself as “just another wounded person trying to make his own relationships work.” Figs believes that “every person makes sense and every person is worthy of love”, AND if they can get beyond the narrative that one partner is right and one partner is wrong, they can find a neutral place to meet and talk and work through their issues.   He shares a bit about his approach to helping couples, and he believes that “although people are complicated, therapy shouldn't be. “  Figs views himself as a fellow traveler in life and a fellow struggler. He likes to remind couples that many of their conflicts and arguments are just evidence that they care so much about this relationship. O'Sullivan's approach encourages individuals to examine their own emotional responses and vulnerabilities, becoming more self-aware to attract and maintain a healthier relationship dynamic.  He shares the  3 pillars of relationships that he focuses on in couples work:      1    Attachment theory     2    Systems Theory     3    Transformation/Experiences To learn more about Figs and his work, go to empathi.com Listen to this episode and more: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠neverperfect.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow us on instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@neverperfectpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠neverperfectbeth@gmail.com⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Dr. Carol Stoney, Beth’s most frequent (and very likely one of the most popular ) podcast guests returns to the show to talk about marriage. She likes to encourage married couples to ask themselves the question regularly: “ Why did we get  married?” Like when things get hard  or when transitions happen, she urges them to sit down and have a conversation “What’s our purpose?” Sometimes couples have change their mission, she said. Dr. Stoney stated “I don’t care what couples are fighting about, I care what they are fighting FOR“ “What is the mission and the purpose and the reason you are staying together?” In essence, it is important for couples to know and remember what it is they are trying to achieve and what stands in the way (or threatens) what it is that they are trying to recover to achieve that goal they never knew they had. She urges couples to consider, why is this so important to me? What is it that we’re fighting for? To hear more episodes with Dr. Stoney, go to your favorite podcast platform and Google Never Perfect Dr. Stoney To learn more about her, you can go to healingforcouples.com Listen to this episode and more: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠neverperfect.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow us on instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@neverperfectpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠neverperfectbeth@gmail.com⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What is the difference between unconditional love and conditional love? Does healthy love have to include approval of all choices? Are we showing love to our children or our loved ones even when we don’t approve of their choices, or when we grieve their choices? Is our love for them more selfish or more selfless? Are we wanting them to make choices that are good for US or for THEM? How do we handle it if they have different priorities or make different choices than we want them to? Are we allowing them to be their healthiest best selves or are we trying to control them?  Do we punish people when they don’t do what we want? How can you provide guidance and rules without interfering with healthy development and choices? Today Dr. Beth records a conversation about these topics with a client, honing in on topics related to healthy parenting and unconditional love. This conversation was recorded spontaneously immediately following their therapy session. This client, who has several adolescent and young adult children, shared some great insights and questions, along with examples from her own childhood. Listen to this episode and more: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠neverperfect.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow us on instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@neverperfectpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠neverperfectbeth@gmail.com⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What do we need to know about midlife and how to navigate it? How does wellness intersect with women’s experiences of midlife? Today Beth discusses these topics with counselor Elizabeth O’Brien, the author of “The Power in the Middle”. Check out links to her book at sign up for her monthly  newsletter at her website HERE Listen to this episode and more: ⁠⁠⁠⁠neverperfect.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow us on instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@neverperfectpodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠ Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: ⁠⁠⁠⁠neverperfectbeth@gmail.com⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

John Wang, a leadership coach, corporate speaker, Podcast host and book author, is on a mission to empower Asian Americans to break through external and internal limitations in order to reach their full potential professionally and personally. Many of them get overlooked for leadership positions in spite of their brilliance and conscientiousness. John’s book, “Big Asian Energy: An Unapologetic Guide for Breaking Barriers to Leadership and Success” was published this month (May 2025) and can be found, along with information about his coaching and his podcast HERE Listen to this episode and more: ⁠⁠⁠neverperfect.org⁠⁠⁠ Follow us on instagram ⁠⁠⁠@neverperfectpodcast⁠⁠⁠ Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: ⁠⁠⁠neverperfectbeth@gmail.com⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Before becoming a high performance relationship coach and gender dynamics social scientist Katarina Polonska struggled in her own relationship journey, calling off her first engagement. And today, this Oxford, trained therapist and relationship coach specializes in helping people figure out when to stay or when to go. She helps individuals as well as couples identify blind spots in their relationships and in their careers. Katarina has a podcast called Successfully in Love and a free 20 minute Masterclass outlining her  “Successfully in Love method”. For more information, check out  her website HERE Listen to this episode and more: ⁠⁠neverperfect.org⁠⁠ Follow us on instagram ⁠⁠@neverperfectpodcast⁠⁠ Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: ⁠⁠neverperfectbeth@gmail.com⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Julie Baumgardner has spent 35 years helping guide people to create healthy vibrant marriage relationships. Almost 28 years ago, she helped launch First Things First, an award-winning nonprofit dedicated to helping people have healthy relationships. In this episode,  she addresses some common myths about marriage and shares some of her favorite research and advice, for walking through hard seasons of marriage and why building a culture of appreciation in marriage can make all the difference. She emphasizes the importance of individuals building their own happiness as a way to put less pressure on  their spouse to meet all their needs. Also be on the lookout for Julie‘s new project called “Marriage on the Daily” which should be coming in the Fall of 2025. Recommended Resources: - The Mindful marriage (Ron and Nan Deal) - Hold Me Tight and Created for Connection (Sue Johnson) - God, Sex and Your Marriage (Juli Slattery) - Hot Monogamy (Pat Love) - The Heart of Commitment (Scott Stanley) Listen to this episode and more: ⁠neverperfect.org⁠ Follow us on instagram ⁠@neverperfectpodcast⁠ Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: ⁠neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Dr. Beth and her husband Remo experience the benefits of Enneagram coaching with Kat Smith, certified Enneagram teacher and co-host of the Enneagram + Yoga podcast.  Kat gives an overview of the Enneagram test and how it helps us in our journey of self discovery and understanding our loved ones better, and how it can help us reframe narratives. She then shares an overview of Beth’s type, which is 7, “The Enthusiast” and Remo’s type, 8, “The Challenger.” if you want to get a feel for what Enneagram coaching could do to strengthen your connection with your partner or loved ones, check this episode out. It’s full of information, insight, and laughter. Kat recommends reading “The Wisdom of the Enneagram “  or “The Road Back to You” if you’re interested in learning more. To book a coaching session with Kat, go to HERE Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Dr. Beth and one of her clients (a man in his 70’s) spontaneously record their conversation about nonverbal communication and its impact on relationships. Researchers suggest that nonverbal communication is more important than verbal communication, and comprises 70 to 93% of communication. Today’s conversation stemmed from a comment he made about two tour guides on a trip who didn’t seem to include him. Beth decided to get brave and tell Kim that she had misperceived his nonverbal communication on several occasions, thinking he was angry when he wasn’t… This sparked some soul-searching for Kim and he reflected on his resting facial expression and learned about RBF! Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is what happens when 3 therapists get together for coffee, and spontaneously invite Beth’s dietician friend Ellie Paulauskaite to join them. Today’s episode is a recording of this fun and informative discussion about body image, fat shaming, and nutrition. Things include societal perceptions around nutrition and body image, emphasizing that being thin does not equate to being healthy. It highlights the necessity for a balanced approach to nutrition, acknowledging the impact of modern conveniences on physical activity and the tendency for people to seek quick fixes for emotional and behavioral issues through medication . The importance of motivation to change eating habits is stressed alongside the need for safe spaces to discuss help without shame. Healthy lifestyle, self love and body positivity are highly encouraged by this group as a whole. With Brittanee Estes, MFT, Sharon Ratchford, LCSW and Ellie Paulauskaite, RDN. Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Dr. Beth interviews Jordanne Sculler, a therapist who specializes in relationships, approaching her clients with a “ tough yet compassionate style”.  She challenges her clients to look in the mirror at themselves rather than pointing their finger at others in an effort to “bring the work back to them.” She also challenges the delusion that relationships can be perfect. For her, the heart of effective therapy requires two components: building  a strong bond and challenging clients with pushback. Jordanne says that her hope/goal for her clients (and all people) is 1) to be completely ourselves, 2) to be loved for exactly who we are, and 3) to be healed through this process. Enjoy this conversation with Jordanne and Dr. Beth regarding relationships. Learn more about Jordanne HERE and follow her on Instagram HERE. Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In relationships, conflict is universal and unavoidable because we all have different viewpoints, opinions, needs and irritable moods and poor affect regulation often exacerbate these issues. Conflict itself is not the problem, but how we manage it can cause the problems. Today Dr. Beth shares several examples of common everyday conflicts and issues. She also includes several examples, including one with her 15 year old daughter and a client sharing her recent argument with her partner, both illustrating some classic communication issues. Dr. Beth suggests reviewing a previous episode called Straight Talk. Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Judith Belmont, best selling author of the TIPS series, has been practicing as a psychotherapist for more than 40 years, has recently published her favorite book with 110 cognitive behavioral therapy tips. It’s called 110 CBT Tips and Tools. Cognitive behavioral therapy is an empirically validated treatment for common mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression. Today Beth and Judith share some clinical examples and stories. Beth also shares one of her favorite metaphors for self-esteem related to varieties of flowers and how they all have their unique traits and beauty. Judy Belmont wellness Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alicia Jones, who developed the program Over Fifty Fit & Fabulous, went through some pivotal experiences with her own mental health and the physical health of her loved ones, which lead her to a life, dedicated to healthy living at any age. In her early adulthood, Alicia was motivated to lose weight because she thought it would make her more beautiful or worthy, but eventually she realized that the main purpose of healthy eating and exercise is mental and physical health.  Alicia is a highly recognized health and fitness expert. Since 2006 she has transformed the health and lives of women over 50 through fitness and weight loss strategies. Her 12 week signature program Over Fifty Fit & Fabulous has helped countless women achieve a wide range of goals, from becoming beautiful and confident mother of the brides (and grooms) to fun grandmas who have the energy and strength to play with their grandkids endlessly. Find the link to her website and her free master class below:  Free Master Class Alicia Jones Healthy Living Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Stephen shares his story of living with cerebral palsy, explaining what it is, and what he wishes “normies” understood about it, such as how much mental energy it takes to simply live with pain or maintain physical balance, in the sense of walking without falling. At a young age, his mother instilled in him the importance of working as hard as possible to stay strong, and he describes how that has benefited him throughout his life. Stephen describes the growing acceptance and peace surrounding his disability, and reduction in worrying about what others think. Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After serving as a judge in Los Angeles for 26 years, Anthony pursued his passion for writing and decided to write a book about growing up in a blended family in the 50’s and 60’s, going back-and-forth between his father‘s house and his mother‘s house. He describes “ living in the shadow of two larger than life men”, both of whom mentored and influenced him in distinctive ways. His father was a Hollywood actor, and his stepfather was a successful entrepreneur. Anthony’s book is called “Every Other Weekend: Coming of Age with Two Different Dads.” To learn more about him and his story, go VISIT HERE. Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Dr. Beth has a fun discussion with her daughter, Cullie, and Cullie‘s boyfriend Bennett, who were both diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder about a year ago. After sharing some of the strengths and weaknesses of individuals with ADD, Beth asks them to share some a little bit about their experience with getting diagnosed, learning struggles, and reflecting on which traits they can and can’t relate to. They talk a little bit about everything, including the two dogs they gave away to a neighbor, etc. Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today relationship expert Dr. Carol Stoney returns to Never Perfect to deliver more phenomenal nuggets on how to improve relationships and communication. She focuses on the importance of developing agreements on the front end rather than expecting your loved ones to read your mind or do guess work (Dr. Stan Tatkins developed this concept of agreements). Carol brings up a powerful exercise from Dr. John Gottman called “dreams within conflict” in which couples discuss core issues and longings that underlie conflicts. She also distinguishes between “actual crimes” a relationship from less serious issues (using the work of Dr. Brent Atkinson.) These crimes include lying/deception, sexual unfaithfulness, breaking clear agreements, bad, mouthing your partner, violating privacy/personal space, making big decisions without consulting your partner, etc.) To register for Dr. Stoney‘s webinars visit HERE. To hear previous episodes with Dr. Carol Stoney, look for the repairing relationships episode from November 2021, Our Body’s Response to Relationships in September 2022, and How to Manage Unsolvable Relationship issues from October 2023. Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are your life and work aligned with your purpose? Are your efforts making a positive difference? These are questions posed by Annette Gulick in her latest book. She states “In a world overflowing with options—from which product to buy, to which job to take, and for how long—it can be overwhelming to figure out what truly matters. And even harder to know if our choices will foster our well-being.” Annette and her husband Tim have devoted more than a decade to training youth leaders and organizations all over the world, specifically those who are investing in the development of young people. After many years of doing this work and writing several books, Annette decided to write “Aligned: Flourishing in a World of Choice”, summarizing the principles that she and her husband Tim had been teaching for so many years. This work helps readers answer the question, "What can I do to fulfill my purpose and become the fullness of what I am designed to be?". The book includes activities to help readers discover what it means to live a more fruitful life.  To learn more about Annette’s book, go to annettegulick.com Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Vanderbilt trained physician Patricia McLelland addresses 10 common questions about menopause and hormones. Topics include how to know when you need hormones, how to decide which hormones to take, the benefits of hormones, the safest way to take them, etc. Patricia approaches medicine from an integrative standpoint, recommending holistic and botanical tools whenever possible. She focuses on nutrition, exercise, stress management, good quality, sleep, botanicals, and medications as the ways to stay as healthy as possible during menopause. She highly recommends Dr. Aviva Romm’s podcast and articles on the topic as well. Link to Dr. Romm’s podcast is HERE Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After raising two daughters with allergies and working in the health and beauty industry for over 20 years, Kim Grustas founded  Good For You Girls, the first clean skincare company for girls in the United States. Kim has spent many years studying puberty and views it as a miraculous phase to be celebrated. Today she shares her views on puberty and how she talks about it with young girls and parents, emphasizing the fact that it is not happening TO you as much as it is happening FOR you.  To learn more about Kim’s mission with clean and healthy living for adolescents and girls, VISIT HERE For a 20% discount, enter code neverperfect20 Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Author Sasha Saidman knows what it’s like to have struggles with learning and to question your intelligence. As a person with dyslexia and a high school dropout, Sasha is passionate about helping other individuals with learning disabilities discover their gifts and realize how intelligent they truly are, and embracing themselves as “outside the box thinners.” Today she shares her childhood story of being in a family who provided emotional safety and urged her to advocate for herself. She and Dr. Beth offer some of their favorite parenting advice, highlighting the importance of emotional safety, Sasha has written children’s books about dyslexia, adoption, and other topics. To learn more about her book “Melonade” and others, go to sashasaidman.com Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Thanks to a conversation about licorice with a dental tech, Dr. Beth got to hear a wonderful story about a young woman’s struggles with severe anxiety. This woman, Erika Derryberry, she how she got her anxiety to a manageable level, from antidepressant medication to EMDR to neurofeedback, meanwhile developing a huge passion for holistic medicine and natural cures. Today Erika shares her story with Dr. Beth. Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Dr. Beth attempts to get some free counseling from her listeners as she processes some recent parenting mistakes in her own family. She discussed some of the components of executive functioning which she, and most parents with ADHD) are lacking in. these include skills, such as decision-making, prioritizing, planning ahead, and organizing. Beth shares a few examples how poor planning can cause a lot of unnecessary distress and disappointment. She urges other parents to learn from her mistakes and to be a better captain of their families ship, so to speak. Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Years ago, Beth came up with the term “Overfunctioner” and frequently talks about this with clients and friends who tend to overwork, overperform, do more than their share, and frequently have trouble being on the receiving end of things. There are a variety of potential reasons that people overfunction, including perfectionism, childhood trauma, feelings of insecurity or inadequacy, feeling that love and approval is conditional, etc. Beth is passionate about helping people like this and today she shares a couple examples of people who worked through these issues and learned to love, value and protect themselves more and to exercise greater self compassion.  Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Beth records a spontaneous podcast on parenting, and shares her own personal struggles with it, as well a couple of client examples. She summarizes the parenting research on authoritative parenting and illustrates the principles using a fish tank/aquarium. In essence, parenting that is too strict and too much like a dictatorship doesn’t lead to optimal outcomes for children, but permissive and overly lenient parenting doesn’t either. The ideal is in the middle, but Beth admits that she’s too democratic in her parenting style, and talks a little bit about how that backfires. The ideal is a balance. Beth also talks about how her own ADHD relates to having traits of a “passive parenting”, or being too permissive at times, and how this relates to deficits and executive functioning (making decisions, planning ahead, being organized, etc.). Although it’s not always a parent, kids really want parents to be the captain of the ship, as long as there’s not too much rigidity and excessive control. Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this 10 minute episode, Beth shares a few examples of how perfectionism or overestimating a task/situation can lead to procrastination and all our nothing thinking. A common behavior and anxious, depressed or ADHD individuals is overestimating the difficulty of something and underestimating yourself. Analysis paralysis is similar. Beth shares three examples of this behavior in today’s episode. Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In his mid 40s, Jeff Barry, an “oops” baby, became passionate about his life story, the heroes and the villains he’d encountered, and the life lessons along the way. His book “Go to Hell Ole Miss” is clearly a passion project, and one that he couldn’t sit down until he got it almost perfect. An editor told him it was ready to publish about a year into the process, but he spent another seven years developing the characters in a “pitch perfect “ way, according to a fellow author. Somehow, Jeff manages to tackle big picture issues such as racism, misogyny, southern culture, religion, and family dysfunction in an entertaining way. Jeff poured himself into this project, even talking to the characters out loud while he was writing the story. He even shares his struggle with depression when the project was over. Check out his website HERE Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, Beth asks dietitian Ellie, Paulauskaite for her top 10 pieces of nutrition advice. Ellie provides some amazing and simple guidelines to help with a big picture approach to giving our bodies what they need. Her advice includes: 1) eating whole grains instead of refined grains 2) making sure that half of your plate includes veggies and fruits, especially veggies 3) having small amounts of protein at every meal 4) mindful, eating, slowing down and being aware of and grateful for what you’re eating 5) having fermented foods daily in order to improve gut health 6) The three pillars of a healthy lifestyle include nutrition (eg, a Mediterranean diet), movement, and community/connection 7) limiting overprocessed food (and explaining what that means) 8) meal prepping and having quick/realistic “go to” recipes 9) eat the colors of the rainbow for more variety and diversity 10) keep an eye on your bowel movements because they can tell you a lot about your health and nutrition. (number 10 gave Beth an opportunity to show her immature side with a little giggle, partly because Ellie added this 10th one unexpectedly.)  If you would like to set up a consultation with Ellie, you can check out her website sceniccitynutrition.com or email her at info@sceniccitynutrition.com or call/text her at 423-708-2322 Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chad talks about his journey as an Enneagram Four and coming into his own as an adult, recognizing his tendencies and passions, and how they affected his relationships. As a teenager and young adult, he was reluctant to pursue some of his passions, like poetry, that didn’t seem very welcomed in masculine culture. He also talks about his Enneagram subtype as a Sexual (One to One) type, and the way it shapes his Four-ness. After a "wake up call” with a near death experience while paddle boarding the Ocoee River last summer, Chad has a renewed sense of self, including integrating his shadow, and other challenging soul work. He recites two poems for memory during the interview, and talks about how the ego rather than the soul wants to do everything at once. Beth talks about how she “can’t “seem to make herself do what she knows she is supposed to do or what is good for her consistently, but she should have said “I don’t “instead of “I can’t “or that it’s difficult…" Check out Big Self School and Dr. Chad Prevost's website Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Matt Monahan returns for another interview with Dr. Beth, following a great conversation on the Never Perfect Faith podcast on 6/20/24 entitled “Allowing hard questions and honest answers.” So many men find it difficult to face their pain and be vulnerable, and Matt is willing to share his story of growing up with childhood abandonment and emotional neglect. He barely knew his father, and has spent most of his life, wondering if he is good enough. He realized that his feelings about his father translated into his assumptions about God, which unconsciously happens for many. He felt that “if God existed, he would be a capricious and attentive military “type of person. Matt discusses how his insecurity and self loathing translated into his 25 year marriage. He discusses various triggers, including his wife, rejecting, sexual intimacy, and the despair that followed. He talked about the relationship challenges that presented during Covid, and the unexpected healing that came as a result of having more time for introspection. Tune in to hear how Matt pursued healing through self help and faith. And if you want to check out his artwork, go to his website at themightybluegill.com Follow Matt on instagram @themightybluegill Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today’s episode, Beth, interviews 2 brave and insightful teenagers (clients who are friends with eachother) who are willing to share their battles with mental health issues, body positivity struggles, etc. Charlie and Emie share their process of learning to value their package deal of strengths and weaknesses, managing social stressors and FOMO, discussing the impact of social media with these issues, and a few other topics. Also, both Charlie and Emie highly recommend the Finch app as a way to improve healthy habits and mental health. On this app is a daily quote, and Emie shared a recent one by Socrates which related to today’s discussion, “He who is not contented with what he has, would not be contented with what he would like to have.” Check out FINCH Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Scottie Bowman is an entrepreneur and restaurant owner today, but 22 years ago, after beginning her recovery from alcohol and drug addiction, she developed a passion for starting a rehabilitation center of some kind so that she could help women like herself. In 2019, her dream finally came true when she and her dream team of friends and colleagues, developed a 12-step based sober living home for women recovering from alcohol and drug addiction. In today’s episode, Scottie shares her addiction story and the ongoing mission of the Launch pad.  “The Launch Pad is a non-profit organization dedicated to launching women out of addiction and into the healing power of a 12-step sober living program.  We provide housing, mentorship, and workforce development that is nurtured with love, support, and structure. Success in our program fosters a strong belief in oneself, allowing our residents to become more productive members of the community while igniting a sense of purpose, sustainability, and empowerment.” Learn more about the Launch Pad at www.lpchatt.org Also if you live in Chattanooga or you want to make a road trip, please join us at their annual charity auction and concert on August 10 called “The Teal”! Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sydney Guerette, founder of the Be The Change Youth Initiative, shares the reasons her family began a quest when she and her brother were teenagers of traveling the country, writing music and speaking to other teenagers about mental health issues and how they can make a difference in their everyday lives. Sydney believes that “all youth should be seen, heard, and loved,” as well as empowered “to become advocates for their communities.“ The Executive Director of Hands and Feet Project (Mark Stuart) said that Sydney‘s work is “proving that youth truly have the power to impact the lives of people all around the world.” Find more information and how you can volunteer or donate at bethechangeyi.com Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today the hosts of Enneagram + Yoga, Christy Bonner and Kat Smith, return to the show to discuss the unique challenges of different Enneagram types to tune into their bodies. They describe each type briefly and how they can find ways to get centered and listen to their body. They also have a fun discussion about sex and intimacy related to embodiment and the enneagram types. Beth talks about the value of practicing the opposite of your normal tendencies as a way to grow. Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this short episode, Beth attempts to explain the impact of the nervous system on anxiety levels. She describes the speeding up (the sympathetic process) and the slowing down, a compensatory mode (parasympathetic) and how it relates to the fight flight and freeze responses that we have. Sometimes our nervous systems speed up because we encounter real danger or situations we fear and sometimes we have anxious thoughts or fears that cause us to go into fight or flight. Beth talks about how we can unknowingly put ourselves into panic mode or fear mode because of our thoughts and associations. She explains how our nervous systems try to prepare for danger by being hypervigilant, and how this relates to social anxiety. Some techniques can help us put our nervous systems in a calmer state. Other people may also try to read our facial expressions and nonverbal cues to try to figure out whether we are safe or not. A few client examples that relate to these concepts, including the emotional labels that we put on our heightened nervous system states. Remember trauma nervous system. Non-verbal communication Training How does your body respond to dangers? Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is more of an informational discussion on inpatient treatment and intensive outpatient treatment, for those who need more than just standard counseling and therapy . Beth interviews staff from local facility Erlanger Behavioral Health CEO Robin Weagley and Business Development Director Roberto Garcia, and they discuss the differences between inpatient treatment, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient treatment. They provide suggestions on how to determine whether someone needs varying levels of care. Erlanger Behavioral Health VISIT HERE Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, dr. Beth interviews Brittanee Estes, a marriage and family therapist, who deals with autism spectrum disorders and ADHD. Brittanie describes the autism spectrum and the criteria/categories used to diagnose it. The first category relates to difficulty understanding and maintaining relationships, and trouble understanding, nonverbal cues. The second category relates to repetitive motor movements, flexibility, with routines, fixated, interests, and sensory issues. And of course, Dr. Beth shares, professional and personal stories to illustrate. Brittanie talks about how she uses family systems work to help the families understand the disorder and how to work with it. She also works with clients to help regulate their nervous system and to help their family members go regulate with them.  Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this very short episode, Beth was so inspired immediately following a counseling session with a man in his late 60s that she wanted to record this podcast. Her client Joe is blind and has had two organ transplants and faced much adversity due to health problems. And yet he, a retired chemist and chef, continues to develop proactive ideas to help inner city and aging people get access to better nutrition. During their counseling session, he shared a YouTube video, by Admiral William McRaven, called “One Person Can Change the World: The Power of Hope” with tears streaming down his face. It was very powerful for Beth to see a man who struggles to walk and to see, and how he’s still trying to change the world, one step at a time. These are the types of conversations that Beth feels are so sacred they must be shared with others.  Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Joe Timberlake returns to Never Perfect for a conversation about addiction recovery and recovery (previous podcast, was called “The Journey to Good Enough”). Joe has been in recovery for about 35 years, and he talks about his journey as a sponsor and a sponsee, and what that looks like. Beth and Joe talk about a little bit of everything related to Recovery. Including conversation about the attempt to fill our voids, imposter syndrome, Dumping your pain, connection and isolation, dropoing the rock, asking God to.remove our defects of character, a problem shared is a problem halved, isolation, shame and self hatred, assuming sponsors are too busy or they aren’t important enough , looking for something to fill your void or satisfy the existential ache inside you, engaging with others, the rules of engagement, the power of sharing things out loud, the importance of accepting powerlessness, that’s when it’s unmanageable, positive rules of engagement, etc. Joe has a wealth of wisdom and experience to share. Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Physical therapist and former NFL player Nic Colbert shares his life story and mental health of battling depression from early childhood through the present. Nic vulnerably shares his experience of shame, low self-worth, and self harm over the years and how he has grown and use therapy over the last seven years to get to his healthiest place.  Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tiffany Dorizas, wife and mother of 5 adolescents, has a refreshing perspective on hospitality, and takes a casual approach to having people over and gives herself permission to never make it perfect. That’s why she posts videos on social media about how to make it easy. Very few people have the gift of hospitality, but maybe that would change if we shifted our view of it and the implications of it. Perfectionism is one of the biggest obstacles. Letting others into your home and into your space creates connection and a sense of belonging, like being part of your family. We all want to feel like part of others lives and so many people are lonely. It still means a lot to be invited, even if the house is messy, and the food gets burnt!  Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the second episode with Jason, a middle aged carpenter, he shares his story about being on the brink of divorce, and how he and his wife turned things around in just a few short months. This was accomplished by starting to dialogue with his wife about the false assumptions and narratives, and gradually building a new connection Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Part 1 with Jason, a middle aged carpenter: In this episode, he describes how he benefited from therapy as an adolescent, and again in adulthood. Growing up, he developed a lot of false assumptions and unhealthy narratives; he often felt like a disappointment to his parents, and assumed they were more proud of his sisters, and of him. He realized, “I never developed healthy ways of communicating so all I had left was to assume. Assumptions have really dug me into holes my entire life.” He talked about feeling like a failure in school and then again, professionally as a line cook, but eventually , he says “a lot of things changed for me when I gave up on trying to please my parents. “He now realizes that it’s important to do things for himself, and not based on false (or true) narratives about what others want.  Feel free to pick your favorite title or create a better one! Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After a comical discussion about “dry January” and the health benefits of not drinking, Beth and Kat (certified Enneagram teacher and co-host of the Enneagram + Yoga podcast) launch into a discussion about how the Enneagram helps us “ understand the motivations, the fears, and behaviors of people that you’re in relationship with, and have kindness and compassion for that because they are different from you and they see things different and they are motivated and fearful about different things”. Many of us naturally gravitate toward a person who has strengths and qualities that we don’t possess, but these differences often result in a disconnect down the road if communication skills are lacking (as they generally are, in most relationships!). The very differences that attract us to people can eventually drive us apart or drive us crazy! The Gottmans’ state that couples can work through “ perpetual issues and unsolvable problems” by dialoguing about them to get unstuck and change your perception about them. Kat works with couples as an Enneagram coach to help them “be their best self and their most authentic self “by helping them understand questions like “what makes you tick? Why do you do things you do? Why do you react a certain way, or see things a certain way? Why do you resolve conflict in a certain way? “ Kat believes that without addressing these questions, “you can’t grow.”  Kat Smith Yoga Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bethany Whitted, an expert in the psychology of organizations, team dynamics, leadership discusses authenticity and why it matters in individuals lives. She explains what authenticity is, and how it starts and what gets in the way of it.. essentially it is the degree to which one is true to their real self, including personality, spirit, and character.  Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Beth interviews nurse coach Therese Parks to find out the numerous benefits of meeting with a nurse coach, which seems to be a mix of having a medical cheerleader and a personal organizer for your medical information. Nurse coaches might come for a home visit or attend doctors appointments with you and even go to the grocery store with you to help guide you in your food choices. Therese is a big fan of making a medical notebook for patients with all of their medical information, including medicines, specialist, medical conditions, records of various health information, such as blood pressure, oxygen levels, blood sugar levels, etc. Therese also shares some very helpful information from the functional medicine course she is currently taking.  Using Food As Medicine 6 Reasons For Food Diversity Personal Wellness Coaching Integrative Nurse Coaches Annual Checkups Help Seniors Thrive What is Nurse Coaching Glucose Goddess Hacks Seed Oils Bad For You Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is Beth’s long overdue podcast on the Cluster B Personality disorders, honing in specifically on a subtype of covert narcissism called “vulnerable narcissism” (see attached article for more details.) This insecurity or vulnerability is often surprising since most people associate narcissism with arrogance or feelings of superiority (which can be more of a defensive posture/facade). Beth reviews many of the basic traits of narcissistic personality disorder, and shares a little bit about the other cluster B personality disorders, (Borderline and Narcissistic) and shares a couple of Client examples.  12 Signs of a Vulnerable Narcissist Understanding Cluster B Personality Disorders Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this short episode, after Dr. Beth throws herself under the bus for some of her own unhealthy drinking habits, she shares some of the biggest reasons for cutting back or stopping drinking. Her reasons includes the impact on relationships, mental health, physical health, disease, aging, and the increased likelihood of being a victim (or perpetrator) of assaults, accidents, etc.  Alcohol and Aggression Drinking Alcohol and the Risk of Violence Drinking Too Much Alcohol Can Harm Your Health How Drinking Ages You Traumatic Effects of Alcoholism on Families Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kelsi Ray became a believer in the effectiveness of neurofeedback through the benefits she received personally — brain mapping and training led to such significant decreases in anxiety and depression that Kelsi got off of medication completely and has maintained these results for the past 5 years. After mapping Dr. Beth’s brain, Kelsi Ray of Tennessee Neurofeedback explains the basics of Neurofeedback to Beth and her friend Amanda Tarr (friend and previous podcast guest.) Kelsi shares a bit about different types of brain waves, how they are mapped and retrained, and how Neurofeedback Treatment works.  Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, Dr. Beth is going to be talking about the advantages and disadvantages of knowing your diagnosis, that is, if you have one… She has been involved of some lively discussions in our about whether it’s beneficial to get evaluated (or diagnosed) for a condition that you might have. Beth recalls conversation with someone last fall, who said “ all of my children probably have ADHD, but I never wanted to get them tested because I didn’t want them to have a label or to feel like something was wrong with them.” Although many people might agree with this sentiment, others would disagree, the bottom line is figuring out what seems healthiest and best for yourself and your loved ones long-term. Beth talks about the pros and cons of understanding your brain and your nervous system. This is part of developing your personal users manual, which is one of her favorite concepts to discuss with clients. None of us knows what it feels like to be in another person‘s body, so sometimes it’s difficult to know if we are suffering with a mental health condition, or if we are neurodivergent in some way… many people ask, “Is this normal? Do other people feel this angry, depressed, moody? Why am I struggling to make friends? Why do I procrastinate all the time?” It’s hard for us to know how our own experience compares with others, so a diagnostic questionnaire can help us figure out whether we meet criteria for a certain mental health condition or learning disorder, etc. Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We need to help the next generation and see their gifts, and to believe in them, often before they even see the best in themselves and have a positive narrative about themselves. Unfortunately teens are often miss portrayed and seen in a negative light. Research has shown that most adults hold negative biases about teenagers. And yet teens long to be understood and viewed in a favorable light, and they want advice from adults who view them this way, but frequently this seems unavailable. After 20 years of working with teenagers, Young Life Director Jason Cha shares some insights about how teens want adults in their lives treat them and view them. Jason shares research showing that the vast majority of teenagers want advice from adults, but most of them never seek it out because they don’t trust that they will be understood. Jason and Beth discuss generational and cultural differences between teens and adults, as well as timeless issues that transcend them.  Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ella Green is a high school senior, who shares her story of anxiety, trauma, and loss as a “tween” and how multiple losses in her life crippled her and brought her to her knees, literally. She’s written a book about her experience with debilitating anxiety and how her faith carried her through. Read Ella's Book Here: "Dear Anxious Mind" Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joe Timberlake is a businessman and yoga instructor, who grew up with alcoholic father. He never felt good enough: his father was always critical and disappointed in him. As a young adult, Joe himself discovered that alcohol, lowered his social anxiety and made him the life of the party, so he became an addict himself. At age 35, Joe became sober and benefited greatly from 12 step, meetings, and sponsors. He healed from his childhood trauma and rose above the abusive relationship with his father, and was able to reconcile with him after many years of spending time with him, and continuing to endure criticism. Joe explains how he achieved peace through his own work, and eventually reconcile with his father. He wrote a book about his story called “The Attorney” The Attorney by Joe Timberlake Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today Dr. Beth is thrilled to have relationship expert. Dr. Carol Stoney return to discuss the ongoing conflicts and struggles that all couples deal with. They discuss Dr. John Gottman and Dr. Julie Schwartz Gottman’s research, specifically their work on perpetual problems and unsolvable issues. No matter who you end up with, you will have a distinctive set of issues pop up, and more than 2/3 of these issues will never resolve, but need to be discussed to get out of gridlock. Dr. Stoney reminds us that at least 2/3 of our differences will never be agreed upon. Some of her advice: we need to take responsibility for our own part and admit that often “we don’t manage ourselves very well “when we have an issue with our partners. we need to look at our “action tendencies “and to understand ourselves, rather than pointing the finger at others (which is the natural tendency.) we often treat our partner like the enemy, partly because our nervous system‘s are wired to be constantly “checking for safety. “ Dr. Stoney says that couples “quickly lose the feeling that we’re on the same team. “ she often Reminds couples to “connect and then correct.” we all need to feel that we are “in a safe pair of hands” with our partner. Our partners actually want to please us, whether we realize it or not. She also recommends the imago profile as a tool for understanding our triggers and patterns and relationships. And Baby Makes Three: The Six-Step Plan for Preserving Marital Intimacy and Rekindling Romance After Baby Arrives Loving On Purpose Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How do you define success ? Is it based on the money you make? Or status? or does it relate to finding a job that matches your gifts and passions? You have the right to define success in your own way, and not in the way that society, or even your family might measure it. Many people feel like failures, because they never give themselves permission to discover their gifts or pursue a Calling, that might not be perceived as successful to everyone . In this episode, Beth talks to Artist AJ Azike about his experience of going from real estate flipper to artist. AJ describes his passion for living in the moment, and sucking the marrow out of life through art, people, and exploration. He shares his perspective on what constitutes a meaningful and fulfilling. What makes a person feel content intrinsically rather than extrinsically?  Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Beth provides a basic description of OCD, using clinical examples and sharing her favorite ways to explain and understand OCD. Almost everyone has intrusive or unwanted thoughts at times, which is the nature of obsession, but this does not mean they have OCD, unless they meet diagnostic criteria for the Disorder. The compulsion is the repetitive behavior or mental act that is used to lower anxiety/distress about the obsession. Beth some of her own personal intrusive thoughts as well as clinical stories. She likes to remind clients that obsessions are unwanted, so they should not feel guilty about having them; they are common thoughts, impulses, or images that pop into our heads. Most people with OCD need a lot of reassurance and second-guess themselves, and they sort of let their mind play tricks on them.  Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this short episode, Dr. Beth talks about social anxiety, and how taking the spotlight off of yourself can reduce self consciousness and performance, anxiety, instead leading to focusing on showing interest and others, and asking them questions. We all you’re in for social connection and want to feel that others like us and are interested in us.. Beth calls it “giving people the welcome sign “. She shares some tips for using questions to build self-confidence and reduce social anxiety. Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this short episode, Beth’s client “Allie”, a 30 year old, talks about the her different style of showing love than her partner. He is more expressive, emotional, and affirming than she is, which makes her question herself and wonder whether she’s giving him enough. Coming from a family of mid western farmers, Allie is more matter of fact and shows her love through acts of service and more nonverbal ways.  How do you show your friends, partners, family, that you love them? Do you speak the same language? What happens when one of you shows love in a way that doesn’t “speak” to you? a actions rather than words?  Take the Love Language Quiz HERE Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Living in the moment, and seizing the day can be pretty amazing, but split second decisions can have uncomfortable or painful consequences. Spontaneity has upsides and downsides. I am night of “fun “with no boundaries can ruin the next day, and sometimes have long-term effects on your life, ranging from hangovers to legal problems to unplanned, pregnancies or STDs.) how can we protect ourselves and keep ourselves healthy, while not being overly rigid and no fun? In the short episode, Beth shares, personal examples and client examples of the price tag that comes with impulsivity and a lack of planning/Boundaries, all of which are common struggles for a person with ADHD. Beth shares three strategies to reduce impulsivity and poor judgment.  1) Have a plan or some basic boundaries ahead of time, 2) if you’re on the fence about a decision, delay it, so you have time to think about it, even if that involves setting a timer for five minutes. And 3) Prepare to say no, if that’s the healthiest choice, and an excuse (if you want to give one ) , especially if you’re a people pleaser and you dislike disappointing people, or you go with the flow too easily.  Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Beth‘s client, Dana, shares her experience of growing up with very little emotional support from parents. Dana, now is a middle aged mother of 3 children, shares her story of having “nothing to draw from “ due to childhood deficits, and the gradual process of 20 years of being tapped out, exhausted, and having “the joy sucked out.” Dana recently began doing therapy to help her self recover from compassion, fatigue, and burn out, and now realizes she has ADHD, which is an important piece in understanding herself and her experiences with more insight.  Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Beth interviews Mara, a recent high school graduate from China, and her mother about their experience of navigating Mara’s mental health journey on opposite sides of the world, as Mara moved to the USA a boarding student for high school. They discuss cultural factors that impacted their feelings about therapy and medication, and how the family came together to support Mara and her treatment from afar. Listen to how Mara and her family navigate cultural perceptions of mental health as well as unite as a family to care for Mara. There is a lot to learn from this brave and strong family, and how they worked as a team to fight for Mara’s well being.  Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bipolar disorder is often misunderstood and goes undiagnosed. It can be very tricky l because it manifests in unexpected ways in many cases. In this episode, Beth shares an overview of the types of bipolar disorder, which of her on a spectrum, like many other disorders. It seems especially tricky for most people to understand the differences between bipolar I and bipolar II disorder and to distinguish mild highs (hypomania) from more severe or noticeable highs (mania), especially since some of the highs are “bad highs”, referred to as dysphoric mania. Beth uses her favorite visual illustrations to explain, bipolar as surges of energy that are more severe than your average mood swings. Mood Disorder Questionnaire CLICK HERE Listen to this episode and more: neverperfect.org Follow us on instagram @neverperfectpodcast Please rate and review this podcast. Send us an email with any feedback or requests: neverperfectbeth@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices