Life Happens with Barb & Michelle

There are conversations every parent knows they should have — and most of them never do. In this episode of Life Happens with Barb & Michelle, mother and daughter go deep on the exact things they wish someone had said to them before life had to teach them the hard way.From family alcoholism surfacing after a 15-year-old's first drunken night, to growing up with two alcoholic parents and never once hearing 'I love you' — Barb and Michelle trace how silence passes down through generations, and what it actually takes to break that chain. This one is for every parent afraid to say the hard thing, and every adult child who's still waiting to hear it. In this episode, you'll learn:- Why 'protecting' your kids from hard truths usually means protecting yourself from discomfort- How to create a safe space so your child actually comes to you — without fishing or manipulating- The HALT tool (Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired) and how to make it a natural part of family life- What to do when you've already said something that closed your child off — and how to repair it- Why you don't need the perfect moment — and how to let hard conversations unfold naturally From psychiatrist and author M. Scott Peck's famous opening line in The Road Less Traveled: "Life is difficult." Rather than seeing this as pessimistic, Barb taught Michelle that accepting life's challenges is one of the greatest pathways to peace, resilience, and emotional freedom.“Life is difficult. This is a great truth, one of the greatest truths. It is a great truth because once we truly see this truth, we transcend it. Once we truly know that life is difficult ―once we truly understand and accept it― then life is no longer difficult. Because once it is accepted, the fact that life is difficult no longer matters.” - M. Scott Peck Don't wait for the sit-down talk. The moment is already here.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 2 June 2026

Comedian Jessi Cruickshank joins Barb and Michelle backstage at Lynn University for a raw, funny, and unexpectedly emotional conversation about motherhood, performance, anxiety, and becoming the women their mothers raised them to be.From professional perfectionism to internet criticism, the conversation moves from hilarious behind-the-scenes moments into deeper reflections on identity, mindfulness, and the pressure women carry in public and private life. Jessi opens up about the comment she never forgot, while Barb and Michelle unpack what they inherited — and what they had to unlearn.In this episode:• Why perfectionism quietly controls so many women• The emotional cost of always performing “fine”• How humor and mindfulness actually serve the same purpose• The parenting lessons they resisted most• Why confidence is usually built through embarrassment Learn how to stop performing perfection and start connecting honestly. Connect with Jessi:Follow her on Instagram & Facebook: @jessicruickshank Follow her on TikTok: @jessicruickshanktok Check out her Evening Club Tour: jessicruickshank.com/tour Listen to her podcast: https://tr.ee/u6WMhIAnoiSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 26 May 2026

Healthy relationships require honesty, reciprocity, and the courage to stop self-silencing. In this episode of Life Happens, Barb and Michelle sit down with Alex Elle to unpack what it really means to outgrow people, rebuild trust, and tell the truth in your relationships before resentment takes over. They discuss her new book, “The Company We Keep” which just launched today and can be found here:The Company We Keep -- Book link: https://bit.ly/4fe0kbw The Company We Keep tour link: https://sites.prh.com/alexelletour This conversation will help anyone navigating changes in friendship, people pleasing, divorce, boundaries, and the painful reality that growth sometimes means letting go.Together, Barb, Michelle, and Alex explore why saying yes when you mean no creates disconnection, how reciprocity shapes healthy friendship, and why “clarity is a radical act of love.” If you’ve been questioning your friendships, struggling to use your voice, or trying to understand what trust and alignment actually look like in real life, this episode offers both the emotional validation and the language to begin.Learn how to recognize self-silencing and people-pleasing patternsUnderstand the difference between growing together and growing apartGet language for hard conversations about friendship, trust, and capacityReframe honesty as an act of love instead of conflictBuild healthier, more reciprocal relationships without abandoning yourselfIf you’ve ever stayed in a friendship longer than you should have because you didn’t want to be the one who left... this episode will meet you right there. Alex’s book, The Company We Keep, is available on May 19, 2026. Don’t miss it. 💗 Connect with Alex:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alex_elle/ Substack: https://alexelle.substack.com/ 💬 We’d love to hear from you! What insight or moment resonated most with you in this episode? Share in the comments—we truly read every one.📅 Subscribe & Join Us Next Tuesday for another heartfelt episode of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle! 💕🎙️ Host by:https://www.instagram.com/peaceful_barb/https://www.instagram.com/michellemaros/Join our community⬇️YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LifeHappensThePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifehappensthepodcast/Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifehappensthepodcast Listen to our podcast anywhere→ https://michellemaros.com/podcast/ 🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday ✨ Available Now✨ Order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌 https://amzn.to/3Us9eqgSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 19 May 2026

What happens after the book tour ends, the championship is won, and the calendar goes blank? Michelle opens up about the unexpected emptiness she felt after her biggest accomplishment, and Barb reveals something she has never experienced: a void. This mother-daughter conversation uncovers why success can feel like getting fired, what it means to live like you are running out of time, and why the quiet after the loud season might be the most important chapter of all.This episode dives into the generational divide between pushing through and pausing, the difference between rest and avoidance, and how two very different people navigate the same transition. Whether you just graduated, finished a big project, ended a season, or closed a chapter you poured everything into, this conversation will help you understand why the void is not a problem to fix but a space to fill on your own terms.What you'll take away:Why achieving your biggest goal can feel like getting fired overnightThe generational difference between 'keep moving' and 'feel your feelings' after a big momentHow Barb's micro-transitions throughout the day prevent her from ever hitting emptyThe connection between running out of time, grief, and never allowing a voidHow to recognize when sitting in the void becomes productive reflection vs. staying stuck Don't let the quiet after the loud season convince you that the best part is over. Learn how to make the space count.💬 We’d love to hear from you! What insight or moment resonated most with you in this episode? Share in the comments—we truly read every one.🎙️ Hosted by:https://www.instagram.com/peaceful_barb/https://www.instagram.com/michellemaros/ Join our community⬇️YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LifeHappensThePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifehappensthepodcast/Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifehappensthepodcast Listen to our podcast anywhere→ https://michellemaros.com/podcast/ 🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday 0:00 — Intro: Michelle's post-book-tour void0:58 — Welcome to Life Happens with Barb and Michelle1:14 — It's bigger than a book: any major milestone1:45 — Indiana football national championship & the "now what?"2:44 — Barb's reaction: the joy of the unexpected3:51 — Michelle's book journey and the feeling of the drop-off7:39 — Barb never felt a void — a generational contrast14:35 — What is rest? Defining it differently for everyone21:32 — Vulnerable question: does living like you're running out of time come from grief?24:28 — How will you know when you've done what you came here to do?38:32 — Barb's Italy trip: sometimes the transition is fast41:01 — Closing reflections & takeaways See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 12 May 2026

Mean people are everywhere right now and the data confirms it. In this episode, Barb and Michelle unpack why cruelty seems to be escalating, breaking down the different types of mean people we all encounter and what actually drives their behavior. Barb shares a raw, personal story about being screamed at in a parking lot while her mother was dying in hospice, and what that moment taught her about judgment, control, and the stories we never see.This conversation goes deep into narcissism, spiritual bypassing, the difference between empathy and giving someone a pass, and how to stop carrying what was never yours in the first place. Whether you are dealing with a cruel stranger, a toxic family member, or your own tendency to absorb other people's behavior, this episode gives you a practical framework for protecting your peace without losing your compassion.What you'll take away:Why the shift from "thinking it" to "saying it" is fueling a cruelty epidemicThe grocery store moment that reveals how we all judge without knowing someone's storyHow to shift from asking "why are they like this" to "what can I do right now"What a real narcissist looks like and why they genuinely cannot changeThe practical difference between forgiving someone and simply being done with them Don't let someone else's cruelty become the story you carry. Learn how to set it down.💬 We’d love to hear from you! What insight or moment resonated most with you in this episode? Share in the comments—we truly read every one.📅 Subscribe & Join Us Next Tuesday for another heartfelt episode of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle! 💕🎙️ Hosted by:https://www.instagram.com/peaceful_barb/https://www.instagram.com/michellemaros/ Join our community ⬇️YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LifeHappensThePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifehappensthepodcast/Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifehappensthepodcast Listen to our podcast anywhere→ https://michellemaros.com/podcast/🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday ✨ Available Now✨ Order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌 https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg📘 Go Deeper with Dear FriendIf this episode resonated with you, you may also love Michelle’s USA TODAY bestselling book, Dear Friend, a daily reflection companion designed to help you reconnect with your inner voice, honor your needs, and find clarity and strength one day at a time.Because resilience doesn’t begin with changing your circumstances.It begins with strengthening your relationship with yourself.And that may be the most important relationship you’ll ever build.👉 Order your copy: https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg🎧 Listen to the audiobook and step into a year that truly loves you back: https://amzn.to/459zSdt See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 5 May 2026

Comparison is the one emotion everybody feels and nobody admits to — and Barb Schmidt and Michelle Maros of Life Happens with Barb & Michelle were scared to record this episode for a reason. In this raw, unfiltered conversation, they unpack the jealousy, resentment, and quiet self-destruction that comparison leaves behind — and make a case that might surprise you by the end.From Michelle comparing her book sales to her friends' mid-tour, to Barb owning up to something she projected onto Michelle for years, this episode goes places most podcast conversations never do. If you've ever felt something ugly creep in while watching someone else win — and then felt ashamed of it — this one is for you.What you'll take away:Why 85% of your daily thoughts are negative — and how comparison supercharges the loopHow jealousy and envy are signals, not character flaws — and what they're actually pointing toThe self-talk method for catching comparison before it turns into resentmentWhy "be better than yesterday" might be quietly doing more damage than goodHow to let comparison fuel action instead of shame Don't risk letting comparison keep stealing your joy without ever asking what it was trying to tell you. Learn how to read it instead.Episode Breakdown ⬇️0:00 Introduction0:36 Where Does Comparison Come From?0:52 The Science of Negative Thinking7:07 Barb's Personal Story: Childhood & Comparison9:19 Comparing Yourself to Yourself11:23 Comparison, Jealousy & Envy25:09 Michelle's Story: Visiting a Friend's Family28:22 Self-Talk as the Key Tool39:17 Can Comparison Actually Be Helpful?40:50 Takeaways & Closing 💬 We’d love to hear from you! What insight or moment resonated most with you in this episode? Share in the comments—we truly read every one.📅 Subscribe & Join Us Next Tuesday for another heartfelt episode of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle! 💕🎙️ Hosted by:https://www.instagram.com/peaceful_barb/https://www.instagram.com/michellemaros/ Join our community ⬇️YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LifeHappensThePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifehappensthepodcast/Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifehappensthepodcast Listen to our podcast anywhere→ https://michellemaros.com/podcast/ 🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday ✨ Available Now✨ Order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌 https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg📘 Go Deeper with Dear FriendIf this episode resonated with you, you may also love Michelle’s USA TODAY bestselling book, Dear Friend, a daily reflection companion designed to help you reconnect with your inner voice, honor your needs, and find clarity and strength one day at a time.Because resilience doesn’t begin with changing your circumstances.It begins with strengthening your relationship with yourself.And that may be the most important relationship you’ll ever build.👉 Order your copy: https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg🎧 Listen to the audiobook and step into a year that truly loves you back: https://amzn.to/459zSdt Our Sponsors:* Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 28 April 2026

You've read the books. You've tried the meditation. You've done the journaling, the breathwork, the therapy. So why do you still feel stuck?In this episode of Life Happens with Barb & Michelle, master well-being educator Devi Brown joins the conversation for one of the most honest discussions about healing we've ever had. Devi spent years teaching wellness to athletes, executives, and thousands of students through her Deeply Well podcast and her work at Chopra Global. Then her own life fell apart... and she discovered that everything she'd been teaching wasn't enough to save her.What she built from that breaking point became her book Living in Wisdom... a completely different approach to healing that doesn't start with fixing yourself. It starts with being brave enough to actually meet yourself. This conversation goes beyond surface-level wellness and into the real, messy, uncomfortable process of becoming whole.In this episode, you'll learn:- Why "doing the work" can still leave you stuck... and what's actually missing- The difference between surface-level wellness and true well-being- What "Complex Lived Experience" means and why it changes how you think about your pain- Why Devi's 8-step healing process starts with grief, not gratitude- What it looks like to live in wisdom on an ordinary Tuesday... not just during a retreatIf you've ever felt like you're doing everything right and still not feeling better... this episode is going to change how you think about the entire journey. Devi's book Living in Wisdom is available now in paperback (as of TODAY). 📍0:00 Introduction & Wellness Industry Overview1:11 Welcoming Devi Brown2:11 Healer Burnout & Passing the Torch10:17 Creators, Art & Living for the Work17:31 Music, Consciousness & Cultural Roots18:13 Bridging Generations & Staying Curious26:10 Navigating Uncertainty & The Shift from Hope to Faith33:36 Freedom After Divorce39:20 Surface Wellness vs. Real Healing40:47 The Wellness Industrial Complex59:38 Truth Telling & The Personal Healing Path1:05:38 Closing Reflections & Where to Find Devi Connect: @DeviBrown @DeeplyWellPodcastRead: "Living in Wisdom" DeviBrown.com Now Available!Substack: https://substack.com/@devibrown The Deeply Well Podcast is available on:Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3n5hEIV…Youtube: @devibrownwell-being   Our Sponsors: * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 21 April 2026

Living with someone you love is supposed to be easy — until it isn't. In this episode of Life Happens with Barb & Michelle, hosts Barb Schmidt and Michelle Maros pull back the curtain on the two years they spent living together after a sudden condo flood turned a two-week crash pad into an unplanned life arrangement. What started as a temporary inconvenience became one of the most challenging — and unexpectedly transformative — seasons of their relationship.From laundry wars to a 20-year high school reunion that felt like stepping back in time, Barb and Michelle get honest about the moments that nearly broke them and the practices that kept them together. This conversation is for anyone who has ever loved someone deeply and still needed serious space from them.What you'll take away:Why trying to control small things (like dryer settings) is almost never actually about the small thingHow to survive cohabitation with someone you love without losing the relationshipThe real emotion hiding underneath anger — and how to get to itWhy your role as a parent fundamentally shifts when your adult child moves back inA practical starting point for building self-awareness through journaling and reflectionDon't risk letting conflict quietly damage a relationship you can't afford to lose. Learn how to find the baseline of love — even when you want to pull your hair out. Episode Breakdown ⬇️00:00:00 - Intro00:01:34 - Moving In00:07:38 - Early Adjustment00:09:00 - Tension Builds00:14:06 - The Laundry Wars00:21:16 - Learning to Pause00:25:08 - Finding the Lessons00:39:40 - Love Coexists00:41:35 - Parent Role Shifts00:43:50 - Closing Wisdom 💬 We’d love to hear from you! What insight or moment resonated most with you in this episode? Share in the comments—we truly read every one.📅 Subscribe & Join Us Next Tuesday for another heartfelt episode of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle! 💕🎙️ Hosted by:https://www.instagram.com/peaceful_barb/https://www.instagram.com/michellemaros/ Join our community ⬇️YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LifeHappensThePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifehappensthepodcast/Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifehappensthepodcast Listen to our podcast anywhere→ https://michellemaros.com/podcast/ 🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday ✨ Available Now✨ Order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌 https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg📘 Go Deeper with Dear FriendIf this episode resonated with you, you may also love Michelle’s USA TODAY bestselling book, Dear Friend, a daily reflection companion designed to help you reconnect with your inner voice, honor your needs, and find clarity and strength one day at a time.Because resilience doesn’t begin with changing your circumstances.It begins with strengthening your relationship with yourself.And that may be the most important relationship you’ll ever build. 👉 Order your copy: https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg🎧 Listen to the audiobook and step into a year that truly loves you back: https://amzn.to/459zSdt Our Sponsors:* Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Published: 14 April 2026

What if the thing you've been told will set you free is actually keeping you stuck? What if forgiveness isn't even the goal?In this episode of Life Happens with Barb & Michelle, our hosts challenge everything we've been taught about forgiveness. Not the textbook version we learned as kids, but the real, messy, evolving kind that shows up after serious trauma, toxic relationships, and years of bypassed emotions. This is a raw conversation about what happens when you stop forcing yourself to forgive and start focusing on what you actually feel.💬 Barb opens up about replacing forgiveness with acceptance after her divorce, her history of sexual abuse, and why at 69 years old she's done pressuring herself to forgive people who caused real harm.💬 Michelle gets vulnerable about being a self-described "sucker" who forgave a major trauma too quickly because the person said the right words, and how she's learning to sit with her own feelings before letting anyone else influence her process.✨ In This Episode, We Discuss:Why Barb swapped the word "forgiveness" for "acceptance" and how that shift changed everythingThe danger of forgiving too quickly and bypassing the emotions that actually need to be feltMichelle's experience of forgiving a severe trauma as a kid because the person said all the right things, only to realize decades later she'd never actually processed itHow other people's apologies and influence can cloud what you truly feel and needWhy taking accountability doesn't mean someone gets a pass or gets let back inThe connection between premature forgiveness and the inability to set boundaries later in lifeNedra Glover Tawwab's quote on forgiveness and releasing the power harm has over you "I don't wanna wait that long. And also, is that really even the goal?"If you've ever felt the pressure to forgive before you were ready, or wondered if forgiveness is even what you need right now, this episode is going to feel like permission to breathe. Barb and Michelle aren't here to tell you what to do. They're here to sit with you in the mess and remind you that healing doesn't have a deadline. Come listen.📘 Go Deeper with Dear FriendIf this episode on Forgiveness and Acceptance resonated with you, you may also love Michelle’s USA TODAY bestselling book, Dear Friend, a daily reflection companion designed to help you reconnect with your inner voice, honor your needs, and find clarity and strength one day at a time.Because resilience doesn’t begin with changing your circumstances.It begins with strengthening your relationship with yourself.And that may be the most important relationship you’ll ever build. 👉 Order your copy: https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg🎧 Listen to the audiobook and step into a year that truly loves you back: https://amzn.to/459zSdtEpisode Breakdown ⬇️0:00 – Intro / Teaser clip0:58 – Welcome & introducing the forgiveness topic7:18 – Barb shares where she is today with forgiveness (2026)8:04 – Barb opens up about childhood sexual abuse10:15 – Is forgiveness even the goal anymore?18:57 – Why we put the onus on the person who was harmed23:24 – Should you remove the other person from the equation?24:44 – The danger of being easily swayed by an apology25:18 – How being a "sucker" affects your healing process41:01 – Walking through what actually works: staying in your own essence46:21 – Closing thoughts: accountability ≠ forgiveness49:55 – Outro & Nedra Tawwab quote on releasing forgiveness 💬 We’d love to hear from you! What insight or moment resonated most with you in this episode? Share in the comments—we truly read every one.📅 Subscribe & Join Us Next Tuesday for another heartfelt episode of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle! 💕🎙️ Hosted by:https://www.instagram.com/peaceful_barb/https://www.instagram.com/michellemaros/ Join our community ⬇️YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LifeHappensThePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifehappensthepodcast/Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifehappensthepodcast Listen to our podcast anywhere→ https://michellemaros.com/podcast/ 🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday ✨ Available Now✨ Order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌 https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg Our Sponsors:* Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 7 April 2026

Have you ever found out someone you love wasn't telling you the whole truth, and even though it wasn't malicious, something inside you shifted? That quiet crack in trust can change a relationship more than any dramatic betrayal ever could.In this episode of Life Happens with Barb & Michelle, this mother-daughter duo gets deeply personal about dishonesty. Not the headline-grabbing kind, but the everyday white lies, the withheld truths, the stories we tell ourselves about "protecting" the people we love. From family secrets revealed years later to the small manipulations that slowly erode trust, Barb and Michelle unpack what honesty really costs and what it makes possible.💬 Barb shares how she navigated telling Michelle about her bulimia, a family affair, and the alcoholism in their lineage, and why she trusted life to present the right timing rather than forcing the conversation. 💬 Michelle opens up about what it felt like to learn major truths about her family as a young adult, how those revelations triggered a "what else don't I know?" spiral, and why her mom's non-judgmental space made all the difference.✨ In This Episode, We Discuss:The difference between withholding truth to protect versus withholding to manipulate and controlHow Michelle learned about her dad's affair through a Facebook message years after his death, and how Barb handled the falloutWhy Barb believes "life will present the timing" for hard conversations with your kidsThe real damage of small, repeated white lies versus big one-time revelationsHow calling someone a "liar" or "gaslighter" can short-circuit a conversation, and what to say insteadCreating a safe space where your child (or anyone) can tell the truth without being punished firstWhy trust can be broken in a moment but takes patience and intention to rebuild "I truly believe the truth will set you free. I become tethered to lies."Whether you're a parent wondering what to share and when, or someone rebuilding trust after it cracked, this episode will make you feel less alone in the mess of it. Barb and Michelle don't pretend to have perfect answers. They just show you what it looks like to keep choosing honesty, even when it's uncomfortable. Pull up a seat and listen in.0:00 - Cold Open0:57 - Welcome to Life Happens with Barb & Michelle1:15 - Introducing Today's Topic: Truth & Dishonesty2:12 - Truth Used to Be a Core Value — What Changed?11:21 - Parent-Child Honesty: When & How to Share Hard Truths13:45 - The "True Hat" Rule: A Family Trust Agreement19:41 - Finding Out About Dad's Affair Through Facebook22:18 - Letting Life Present the Right Moment to Tell the Truth28:38 - Are White Lies More Harmful Than Big Ones?29:33 - Work Colleague Story: When White Lies Become Control34:01 - Lying About Drinking as a Teen & Creating Safe Spaces41:09 - "Raised by Cave People" — Extending Grace to Our Parents47:07 - Don't Use "You Are" — Use "I Feel" Language49:27 - Creating Safe Spaces & Repairing Broken Trust51:16 - Closing & Thank You 📘 Go Deeper with Dear FriendIf this episode on Dishonesty and Trust resonated with you, you may also love Michelle’s USA TODAY bestselling book, Dear Friend, a daily reflection companion designed to help you reconnect with your inner voice, honor your needs, and find clarity and strength one day at a time.Because resilience doesn’t begin with changing your circumstances. It begins with strengthening your relationship with yourself.And that may be the most important relationship you’ll ever build. 👉 Order your copy: https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg🎧 Listen to the audiobook and step into a year that truly loves you back: https://amzn.to/459zSdt💬 We’d love to hear from you! What insight or moment resonated most with you in this episode? Share in the comments—we truly read every one.📅 Subscribe & Join Us Next Tuesday for another heartfelt episode of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle! 💕🎙️ Hosted by:https://www.instagram.com/peaceful_barb/https://www.instagram.com/michellemaros/ Join our community ⬇️YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LifeHappensThePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifehappensthepodcast/Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifehappensthepodcast Listen to our podcast anywhere→ https://michellemaros.com/podcast/ 🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday✨ Available Now✨ Order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌 https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg Our Sponsors:* Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.comAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 31 March 2026

What happens when the person you trusted completely becomes the source of your deepest wound? And what does it mean when you're the one who caused that kind of pain for someone else?In this episode of Life Happens with Barb & Michelle, our hosts go deep on one of the most universally painful human experiences: betrayal. This is a raw, honest conversation about what betrayal actually does to us, how it lives in our bodies, and what it really takes to move forward (hint: it's not just forgiving and forgetting).💬 Barb opens up about how betrayal has quietly shattered her sense of safety and belonging over the years, including within family relationships, and shares what she's learning about the difference between repairing a relationship and repairing yourself.💬 Michelle gets real about a time in her younger years when she found herself cast as the villain in a messy web of loyalty, secrets, and broken trust. She reflects on how she eventually made peace with it, even without resolution from the other people involved.✨ In This Episode, We Discuss:Why betrayal isn't just disappointment and why it activates the same regions of the brain as physical painThe difference between a mistake and a betrayal, and why that line mattersWhat it looks like to "clean up your own side of the street" after you've hurt someoneThe pressure of "blood is thicker than water" and why family loyalty doesn't obligate you to stay in unsafe relationshipsHow to know whether a broken relationship is worth repairing or whether it's okay to let it goThe sneaky way gossip can be a gateway to bigger betrayalsWhat self-betrayal has to do with all of it (and why that's a whole other episode) "What society thinks and what other people are telling you is true... blood is thicker than water, you have to forgive and forget... none of that applies. How do you feel about it?"If you've ever felt like you had to choose between protecting someone and protecting yourself, this episode will meet you right there. You'll walk away with a clearer sense of what you actually owe other people and what you owe yourself. Come sit with us for this one. 📘 Go Deeper with Dear FriendIf this episode on Loyalty and Betrayal resonated with you, you may also love Michelle’s USA TODAY bestselling book, Dear Friend, a daily reflection companion designed to help you reconnect with your inner voice, honor your needs, and find clarity and strength one day at a time.Because resilience doesn’t begin with changing your circumstances.It begins with strengthening your relationship with yourself.And that may be the most important relationship you’ll ever build. 👉 Order your copy: https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg🎧 Listen to the audiobook and step into a year that truly loves you back: https://amzn.to/459zSdt💬 We’d love to hear from you! What insight or moment resonated most with you in this episode? Share in the comments—we truly read every one.📅 Subscribe & Join Us Next Tuesday for another heartfelt episode of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle! 💕🎙️ Hosted by:https://www.instagram.com/peaceful_barb/https://www.instagram.com/michellemaros/ Join our community ⬇️YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LifeHappensThePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifehappensthepodcast/Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifehappensthepodcastListen to our podcast anywhere→ https://michellemaros.com/podcast/ 🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday✨ Available Now✨ Order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌 https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg Our Sponsors:* Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 24 March 2026

Have you ever been knocked down so hard you weren’t sure you could get back up?Have you ever felt the weight of the world and wondered how to keep moving forward—with strength, dignity, and hope?In this week’s episode of Life Happens with Barb & Michelle, we explore why resilience can feel so hard, especially when you're exhausted from carrying so much. Inspired by Maya Angelou’s powerful poem Still I Rise, this conversation is about finding the courage to rise again—even when life feels overwhelming.💬 Barb candidly shares her personal experiences with trauma and how Maya Angelou’s wisdom helped her build strength and resilience in her own life.💬 Michelle opens up about what it feels like to be tired of always having to be resilient—and how she continues to rise above life’s challenges with honesty, grace, and self-compassion.✨ In This Episode, We Discuss: How to find your voice and strength after trauma Becoming the author of your own life story The healing power of literature and storytelling Why resilience doesn’t mean ignoring your pain Holding onto one powerful truth: Still I Rise Finding balance between growth, healing, and rest As Maya Angelou reminds us:"You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them."If life feels heavy right now, this conversation is a reminder that you are stronger than you think—and you can rise again.💗 Mentioned in today’s episode:Maya Angelou’s Still I rise: https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/46446/still-i-riseMaya Angelou’s I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/i-know-why-the-caged-bird-sings-maya-angelou/1100392955📘 Go Deeper with Dear FriendIf this episode on rising above life’s hardships and practicing self-compassion resonated with you, you may also love Michelle’s USA TODAY bestselling book, Dear Friend, a daily reflection companion designed to help you reconnect with your inner voice, honor your needs, and find clarity and strength one day at a time.Because resilience doesn’t begin with changing your circumstances.It begins with strengthening your relationship with yourself.And that may be the most important relationship you’ll ever build. 👉 Order your copy: https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg🎧 Listen to the audiobook and step into a year that truly loves you back: https://amzn.to/459zSdt💬 We’d love to hear from you! What insight or moment resonated most with you in this episode? Share in the comments—we truly read every one.📅 Subscribe & Join Us Next Tuesday for another heartfelt episode of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle! 💕🎙️ Host by: https://www.instagram.com/peaceful_barb/ https://www.instagram.com/michellemaros/ Join our community⬇️YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LifeHappensThePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifehappensthepodcast/Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifehappensthepodcast Listen to our podcast anywhere→ https://michellemaros.com/podcast/ 🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday ✨ Available Now✨ Order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌 https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg Our Sponsors: * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 17 March 2026

Have you ever cared about someone so much that you slowly disappeared?Have you ever been the strong one, the helper, the fixer — only to wake up exhausted, resentful, or unsure where you went?In this week’s episode of Life Happens with Barb & Michelle, we explore the hidden cost of overgiving in relationships and how codependency, people-pleasing, and emotional overfunctioning quietly lead to burnout.Inspired by Codependent No More by Melody Beattie, this conversation shifts the focus from controlling others to caring for yourself. We talk about boundaries, emotional exhaustion, self-worth, detachment, and how to stop losing yourself in relationships.If you struggle with: Overgiving feeling responsible for everyone else’s emotions difficulty setting boundaries relationship burnout or constantly putting others first …this episode is for you.💬 Barb shares how she began recognizing her codependent patterns during addiction and divorce — and how healing started when she stopped trying to manage everyone else’s experience.💬 Michelle opens up about losing herself in past relationships and how she rebuilt trust with her own voice, needs, and intuition.✨ In This Episode, We Discuss: How overgiving leads to resentment and emotional fatigue The difference between love and codependency Why healthy relationships require boundaries How to stop controlling others and start caring for yourself Acceptance, detachment, and emotional resilience Rebuilding self-worth after toxic dynamics You cannot pour from an empty cup. Healthy love is mutual. Boundaries are not selfish — they are necessary.If you’re ready to stop overextending, start honoring your needs, and build balanced, lasting relationships, press play.💗 Mentioned in today’s episode:Melody Beattie’s When Things Fall Apart: https://bit.ly/4rBjmvX📘 Go Deeper with Dear FriendIf this episode on overgiving, boundaries, and rebuilding self-worth resonates with you, you may also love Michelle’s USA TODAY bestselling book, Dear Friend — a daily reflection companion created to help you reconnect with your inner voice, honor your needs, and build emotional clarity one day at a time.Because healing codependency doesn’t start with changing someone else.It starts with strengthening your relationship with yourself.And that may be the most important relationship you’ll ever build.👉 Order your copy: https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg🎧 Listen to the audiobook and step into a year that truly loves you back: https://amzn.to/459zSdt💬 We’d love to hear from you! What insight or moment resonated most with you in this episode? Share in the comments—we truly read every one.📅 Subscribe & Join Us Next Tuesday for another heartfelt episode of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle! 💕🎙️ Host by: https://www.instagram.com/peaceful_barb/ https://www.instagram.com/michellemaros/ Join our community⬇️YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LifeHappensThePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifehappensthepodcast/Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifehappensthepodcast Listen to our podcast anywhere→ https://michellemaros.com/podcast/ 🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday ✨ Available Now✨ Order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌 https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg Our Sponsors: * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 10 March 2026

What if when things fall apart… that’s actually where healing begins?In this week’s episode of Life Happens with Barb & Michelle, we’re diving into the wisdom of Pema Chödrön and her transformational book When Things Fall Apart — a powerful guide for navigating hardship, fear, failure, and suffering.When life feels overwhelming, our instinct is often to escape the discomfort. But what if leaning into fear is actually the path to resilience? What if the suffering we experience isn’t just about what happened — but the meaning we attach to it?This episode explores how to stop adding to your own suffering and start turning life’s hardest moments into growth and healing.💬 Barb shares how When Things Fall Apart helped her navigate her mother’s terminal cancer diagnosis and shift from fear to grounded presence.💬 Michelle opens up about recognizing where she was compounding her own suffering — and how she now approaches hardship with greater awareness, compassion, and courage.This conversation is an invitation to step out of denial, stop fighting reality, and begin building emotional resilience — especially when everything feels like it’s unraveling.✨ In This Episode, We Explore: When Things Fall Apart – Why hardship and failure are not the end, but the beginning of transformation. How We Add to Our Own Suffering – The stories we tell ourselves that keep us stuck in guilt, denial, or fear. Leaning Into Fear – How facing discomfort builds real resilience. Reframing Failure – Why failure can be your greatest teacher. From Denial to Acceptance – Feeling difficult emotions instead of escaping them. The Danger of Passive Hope – Moving from wishing things were different to taking grounded, proactive steps. Building Emotional Resilience – Navigating small challenges so we’re stronger in life’s biggest storms. Being Fully Alive – Living with presence, curiosity, and compassion. True healing begins when we stop resisting what is. When we meet pain with compassion instead of judgment. When we realize that fear and hardship are not signs that we’re broken — but invitations to grow.If life feels heavy right now, this episode is for you.💗 Mentioned in today’s episode:Pema Chödrön’s When Things Fall Apart: https://bit.ly/3OAynj2📘 Continue the ConversationIf this episode resonates, you may also love Michelle’s USA TODAY bestselling book, Dear Friend — a daily reflection companion designed to help you reconnect with yourself, strengthen your inner voice, and practice emotional clarity one day at a time.Because the most important relationship you’ll ever build… is the one you have with yourself.👉 Order your copy: https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg🎧 Listen to the audiobook and step into a year that truly loves you back: https://amzn.to/459zSdt💬 We’d love to hear from you! What insight or moment resonated most with you in this episode? Share in the comments—we truly read every one.📅 Subscribe & Join Us Next Tuesday for another heartfelt episode of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle! 💕🎙️ Host by: https://www.instagram.com/peaceful_barb/ https://www.instagram.com/michellemaros/ Join our community⬇️YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LifeHappensThePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifehappensthepodcast/Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifehappensthepodcast Listen to our podcast anywhere→ https://michellemaros.com/podcast/ 🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday ✨ Available Now✨ Order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌 https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg Our Sponsors: * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 3 March 2026

What if being “selfish” is actually the key to healthier relationships?In this week’s episode of Life Happens with Barb & Michelle, we’re answering your questions about navigating difficult relationship dynamics — without guilt, overexplaining, or abandoning yourself in the process.From unrealistic expectations and gossip to setting boundaries for the first time, we’re diving into the messy, uncomfortable, and very real parts of relationships.💬 Barb shares how she sets boundaries and approaches hard conversations with clarity and calm.💬 Michelle opens up about releasing guilt, healing with confidence, and refusing to live in a victim mindset.This conversation is honest, practical, and empowering — especially if you’ve ever struggled with people-pleasing or feeling responsible for everyone else’s emotions.✨ In This Episode, We Explore: Why guilt often keeps us stuck — and what to do instead How to identify your values and honor your needs Setting boundaries without overexplaining Supporting loved ones without rescuing them Why healthy relationships require clarity, not self-sacrifice At the heart of it all? You don’t build strong relationships by shrinking yourself. You build them by standing in your truth.📘 Continue the ConversationIf this episode resonates, you may also love Michelle’s USA TODAY bestselling book, Dear Friend — a daily reflection companion designed to help you reconnect with yourself, strengthen your inner voice, and practice emotional clarity one day at a time.Because the most important relationship you’ll ever build… is the one you have with yourself.👉 Order your copy: https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg🎧 Listen to the audiobook and step into a year that truly loves you back: https://amzn.to/459zSdt 💬 We’d love to hear from you! What insight or moment resonated most with you in this episode? Share in the comments—we truly read every one.📅 Subscribe & Join Us Next Tuesday for another heartfelt episode of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle! 💕🎙️ Host by: https://www.instagram.com/peaceful_barb/ https://www.instagram.com/michellemaros/ Join our community⬇️YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LifeHappensThePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifehappensthepodcast/Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifehappensthepodcast Listen to our podcast anywhere→ https://michellemaros.com/podcast/ 🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday ✨ Available Now✨ Order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌 https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg Our Sponsors: * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 24 February 2026

Confrontation isn’t easy — but it’s one of the clearest ways we honor ourselves and the people we care about. If we’re not honest about our feelings and needs, how can our relationships truly grow?In this week’s episode of Life Happens with Barb & Michelle, we’re diving into loyalty and betrayal — including our own experience of being unexpectedly ghosted by a friend. From healthy communication to redefining what loyalty really means, this conversation is for anyone navigating hurt, boundaries, and the courage to speak up.💬 Barb shares her experience with fear of abandonment and how she’s learned to voice her truth, even when it feels risky.💬 Michelle reflects on why she’s cautious with the word “loyalty” and how she’s redefined it in her own relationships.✨ What We Talk AboutRedefining LoyaltyLoyalty isn’t blind or unconditional — it’s a conscious commitment to work through discomfort, growth, and change with honesty and respect.Fear of AbandonmentRecognizing the underlying fears that may keep you silent or guarded.Being Okay with ConfrontationHealthy relationships are strengthened — not broken — by hard conversations.Loyalty to the Relationship ItselfRespecting the time, energy, and connection you’ve built by choosing communication over avoidance.Reminder: There is power and healing in honest communication. Be brave enough to speak your truth and set the boundaries that protect your peace.📘 USA TODAY BESTSELLER — Dear Friend by Michelle MarosDear Friend is a 365-day companion designed to support self-care, self-love, and emotional clarity. Each reflection offers a gentle pause — a reminder to come back to yourself, nurture your inner voice, and build a life rooted in presence and confidence.Explore the book and continue the journey toward deeper connection — starting with yourself.👉 Order your copy: https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg🎧 Listen to the audiobook and step into a year that truly loves you back: https://amzn.to/459zSdt💬 We’d love to hear from you! What insight or moment resonated most with you in this episode? Share in the comments—we truly read every one.📅 Subscribe & Join Us Next Tuesday for another heartfelt episode of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle! 💕🎙️ Host by: https://www.instagram.com/peaceful_barb/ https://www.instagram.com/michellemaros/ Join our community⬇️YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LifeHappensThePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifehappensthepodcast/Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifehappensthepodcast Listen to our podcast anywhere→ https://michellemaros.com/podcast/ 🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday ✨ Available Now✨ Order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌 https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg Our Sponsors: * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 17 February 2026

Have we become so independent—and so focused on self-care—that we’ve forgotten how much we actually need one another? With relationship deficits at an all-time high, this episode is a powerful guide to rebuilding connection and creating healthy dependency—without losing yourself.In this week’s episode of Life Happens with Barb & Michelle, we’re joined by New York Times bestselling author, therapist, and boundaries expert Nedra Glover Tawwab for an honest and timely conversation about relationships, communication, and expectations. This episode launches the same day as Nedra’s new book, The Balancing Act,offering a deeper look at the themes shaping her work right now.From understanding how trauma can show up in our relationships to navigating boundaries, “no contact,” and emotional dependency, this conversation speaks directly to the loneliness so many of us are feeling—and what we can do about it.💬 Nedra shares insights from her clinical work and personal experience, and offers a preview of the ideas explored in The Balancing Act.💬 Michelle & Barb bring their own lived wisdom to the conversation, exploring relationships through a generational and mother–daughter lens. ✨ What We Talk AboutFinding the BalanceWhy boundaries aren’t walls to keep people out—but tools to keep relationships sustainable and meaningful.The Challenge of “No Contact”When cutting ties is necessary—and why building community and connection matters just as much.Mindful CommunicationWhy speaking honestly instead of silently rehearsing conversations can save relationships.The Relationship DeficitHow cultivating a fuller, more diverse community supports healthy dependency and eases unrealistic expectations.As Nedra reminds us, every relationship—from romantic partnerships to friendships, family, and community—is a balancing act. When we give too much, we lose ourselves. When we protect ourselves too much, we lose closeness. Finding the middle ground is where connection, authenticity, and joy live.✨UPCOMING EVENT:Calling all South Florida friends! Join Nedra Glover Tawwab and Barb Schmidt at Books & Books in Miami for a meaningful conversation—and the opportunity to receive a signed copy of The Balancing Act.Get your tickets here:https://shop.booksandbooks.com/event/2026-02-21/evening-nedra-glover-tawwab-barb-schmidtOrder Nedra’s new book, The Balancing Act, to create healthy dependency and connection without losing yourself:https://www.nedratawwab.com/books/the-balancing-act 💬 We’d love to hear from you! What insight or moment resonated most with you in this episode? Share in the comments—we truly read every one.📅 Subscribe & Join Us Next Tuesday for another heartfelt episode of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle! 💕⭐Special Guest:Therapist, NYT Bestselling Author, Nedra Glover Tawwabhttps://www.instagram.com/nedratawwab/?hl=enOrder her new book here: https://www.nedratawwab.com/books/the-balancing-act🎙️ Host by: https://www.instagram.com/peaceful_barb/ https://www.instagram.com/michellemaros/ Join our community⬇️YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LifeHappensThePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifehappensthepodcast/Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifehappensthepodcast Listen to our podcast anywhere→ https://michellemaros.com/podcast/ 🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday 📘 USA TODAY BESTSELLER — Dear Friend by Michelle MarosYou don’t need a new beginning to come back to yourself. Dear Friend is a 365-day companion for self-love, presence, and quiet courage—one page, one day at a time. 👉 Order your copy: https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg Our Sponsors: * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 10 February 2026

Hard truth: Staying because it’s comfortable might be the loneliest choice you make. Sometimes the bravest thing you can do is stop ignoring the red flags and choose to end a toxic or misaligned relationship.In this week’s episode of Life Happens with Barb & Michelle, we’re unpacking the pressure around relationships, singleness, and breakups — and what it really means to choose yourself. From recognizing when a relationship has run its course to building a strong sense of self, this conversation will empower you to create healthier relationships with yourself and others.💬 Barb opens up about ending a 33-year marriage and how she stepped into a new chapter with confidence, clarity, and freedom.💬 Michelle shares her journey of being alone and finding peace in choosing singleness over settling for less.✨ What We Talk AboutSelf-IdentityReleasing the belief that our worth or purpose is defined by our relationship status.Being Okay With Being AloneSingleness isn’t failure — it can be a powerful season of growth, healing, and self-love.Listening to YourselfLearning to trust your feelings and needs so you can take the next right step.Choosing DifferentlySometimes the uncomfortable path is the one that leads to joy, peace, and real alignment.Reminder: You are more than your relationship status. Your identity, purpose, and fulfillment are defined by you — not by timelines, labels, or societal expectations.📘 USA TODAY BESTSELLER — Dear Friend by Michelle MarosStart 2026 with New Year, Brave You. Dear Friend is a 365-day companion to help you cultivate self-love, clarity, presence, and inner peace — one gentle reflection at a time.✨ Begin the year with intention and courage.👉 Order your copy: https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg🎧 Listen to the audiobook and step into a year that truly loves you back: https://amzn.to/459zSdt💬 We’d love to hear from you! What insight or moment resonated most with you in this episode? Share in the comments—we truly read every one.📅 Subscribe & Join Us Next Tuesday for another heartfelt episode of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle! 💕🎙️ Host by: https://www.instagram.com/peaceful_barb/ https://www.instagram.com/michellemaros/ Join our community⬇️YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LifeHappensThePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifehappensthepodcast/Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifehappensthepodcast Listen to our podcast anywhere→ https://michellemaros.com/podcast/ 🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday ✨ Available Now✨ Order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌 https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg🔖 Hashtags:#Relationships #EndedRelationships #Breakups #ToxicRelationships Our Sponsors: * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 3 February 2026

Divorce breaks a million hearts — including your own.But sometimes, choosing yourself is the bravest and most healing decision you can make.What if all it took to change your life was the courage to trust yourself again?In this week’s episode of Life Happens with Barb & Michelle, we’re joined by NYT bestselling author Jen Hatmaker for an honest, compassionate, and deeply moving conversation about life after divorce, listening to your intuition, and finding freedom on the other side of heartbreak.Jen opens up about putting her life fully out there — the grief, the courage, the fallout — and what it was like to go from deep personal pain to becoming an instant New York Times bestseller. Together, we explore what happens when trauma finds you… and how ignoring your truth doesn’t make it any less true.This episode is for anyone who feels stuck, conflicted, exhausted from self-doubt, or quietly wondering if it’s time for something different.💬 In this conversation, we explore: Choosing Yourself: Why freedom and joy begin the moment you decide your needs matter. Life After Divorce: The heartbreak, the healing, and the unexpected growth that follows. Comfort Over Coaching: Why people often want to soothe us instead of supporting real change. The Sunk Cost Fallacy: Why no amount of time, history, or sacrifice is worth staying somewhere that no longer feels right. Trusting Your Intuition: How we often gaslight ourselves out of the truth we already know. Parenting Through Divorce: Navigating change, honesty, and healing with your children. Feeling the Hurt: Grieving what was, what could’ve been, and honoring the pain without getting stuck in it. Barb and Michelle also share their personal experience navigating divorce as a mother and daughter — and how choosing honesty, presence, and self-trust reshaped their relationship.✨ This episode is a reminder:You’re not broken. You’re not weak. And trusting yourself isn’t selfish — it’s necessary.📖 Order Jen’s memoir, Awake, to go deeper into courage, truth, and choosing yourself:https://www.amazon.com/Awake-Memoir-Jen-Hatmaker/dp/166808368X💬 We’d love to hear from you:What moment or insight resonated most? Share in the comments — we truly read every one.📅 Subscribe & join us next Tuesday for another heartfelt episode of Life Happens with Barb & Michelle 💕⭐ Special Guest:Follow Jen Hatmaker on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenhatmaker/?hl=en🎙️ Host by: https://www.instagram.com/peaceful_barb/ https://www.instagram.com/michellemaros/ Join our community⬇️YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LifeHappensThePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifehappensthepodcast/Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifehappensthepodcast Listen to our podcast anywhere→ https://michellemaros.com/podcast/ 🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday 📘 USA TODAY BESTSELLER — Dear Friend by Michelle MarosStart 2026 with New Year, Brave You. Dear Friend is the perfect 365-day companion to help you cultivate self-love, clarity, presence, and inner peace—one gentle reflection at a time.✨ Begin the year with intention and courage.👉 Order your copy: https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg🎧 listen to the audiobook today and step into a year that truly loves you back. 👉https://amzn.to/459zSdt🔖 Hashtags:#JenHatmaker #Divorce #Freedom #ChooseYou #Courage Our Sponsors: * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 27 January 2026

You don’t need to reinvent yourself this year 💫With all the pressure to “fix” your life overnight and become a brand-new version of yourself, we’re taking a different approach to the new year—one that feels grounded, compassionate, and sustainable.In this week’s episode of Life Happens with Barb & Michelle, we’re answering your questions on how to start the year with clarity and confidence—without stress, overwhelm, or unrealistic expectations. From self-acceptance to pursuing your dreams, this episode is a gentle guide to stepping into a year that loves you back.💬 Barb shares how she’s redefined purpose and goals in her life, releasing pressure and unrealistic expectations.💬 Michelle opens up about why self-care can feel “boring,” and how she discovered a practice that actually works in real life.✨ What We Talk About Starting the year intentionally: Releasing urgency, reframing the “new year pressure,” and letting go of unrealistic timelines Practicing self-care consistently: Finding what supports you without feeling impractical or forced Navigating triggering topics: Knowing your boundaries, honoring your standards, and speaking up when something feels unaligned with your values Approaching goals with grace: Breaking your dreams into realistic milestones while staying connected to what you truly want The pressure to reinvent yourself every January is exhausting. You don’t need a new version of you — you just need more compassion for the person you already are.📘 USA TODAY BESTSELLER — Dear Friend by Michelle MarosStart 2026 with New Year, Brave You. Dear Friend is the perfect 365-day companion to help you cultivate self-love, clarity, presence, and inner peace—one gentle reflection at a time.✨ Begin the year with intention and courage.👉 Order your copy: https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg🎧 listen to the audiobook today and step into a year that truly loves you back. 👉https://amzn.to/459zSdtMentioned in the episode:💛 The Three Gates of Speech Principle: Is it true? Is it kind? Is it necessary?💬 We’d love to hear from you! What insight or moment resonated most with you in this episode? Share in the comments—we truly read every one.📅 Subscribe & Join Us Next Tuesday for another heartfelt episode of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle! 💕Today’s Episode Sponsors:🎙️ Host by: https://www.instagram.com/peaceful_barb/ https://www.instagram.com/michellemaros/ Join our community⬇️YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LifeHappensThePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifehappensthepodcast/Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifehappensthepodcast Listen to our podcast anywhere→ https://michellemaros.com/podcast/ 🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday ✨ Available Now✨ Order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌 https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg✨Coming soon✨You asked. We answered.We've been quietly creating a platform designed to support your emotional and mental wellbeing with practical tools, heartfelt teachings, and science-backed practices.Next month, our new Emotional Wellbeing Toolkit will be LIVE! Save the date and join us in stepping into a year that loves us back💕Be the first to know and have access by signing-up for our newsletter: https://peacefulmindpeacefullife.substack.com/ Our Sponsors: * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 20 January 2026

Step into a year that loves you back 💫 You deserve your own friendship—kindness, care, and compassion included. You are worthy of the same love you so freely give to others.In this week’s episode of Life Happens with Barb & Michelle, we continue our conversation on daily practices by exploring one of the most powerful tools for resilience and confidence: affirmations. We talk about how intentional self-talk can shift your mindset, strengthen problem-solving, and help you show up with more self-trust.💬 Barb shares her wisdom on rooting the mind in truth and self-compassion, even when self-doubt and life’s challenges feel loud.💬 Michelle opens up about discovering affirmations and how this simple practice transformed her relationship with herself.✨ What We Talk About Becoming Your Own Best Friend: Offering yourself the same grace and care you give to others Negative vs. Positive Thinking: How choosing supportive thoughts helps create new neural pathways Building Resilience: Staying grounded in your affirmations instead of spiraling into worry or self-doubt Honoring Your Feelings: Affirmations don’t bypass emotions—feel your feelings without letting them define you Remember: celebrate the small moments and the big wins. Speak to yourself with kindness, honor who you are becoming, and stay present in your day-to-day life.📘 USA TODAY BESTSELLER — Dear Friend by Michelle MarosStart 2026 with New Year, Brave You. Dear Friend is the perfect 365-day companion to help you cultivate self-love, clarity, presence, and inner peace—one gentle reflection at a time.✨ Begin the year with intention and courage.👉 Order your copy: https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg🎧 listen to the audiobook today and step into a year that truly loves you back👉 https://amzn.to/459zSdt💛 Episode Topics Stepping into a year that loves you back Combatting the negativity with affirmations Trusting and believing in yourself Celebrating yourself more and noticing the small moments 💬 We’d love to hear from you! What insight or moment resonated most with you in this episode? Share in the comments—we truly read every one.📅 Subscribe & Join Us Next Tuesday for another heartfelt episode of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle! 💕🎙️ Host by: https://www.instagram.com/peaceful_barb/ https://www.instagram.com/michellemaros/ Join our community⬇️YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LifeHappensThePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifehappensthepodcast/Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifehappensthepodcast ✨Coming soon✨You asked. We answered.We've been quietly creating a platform designed to support your emotional and mental wellbeing with practical tools, heartfelt teachings, and science-backed practices.Next month, our new Emotional Wellbeing Toolkit will be LIVE! Save the date and join us in stepping into a year that loves us back💕Be the first to know and have access by signing-up for our newsletter: https://peacefulmindpeacefullife.substack.com/Listen to our podcast anywhere→ https://michellemaros.com/podcast/ 🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday ✨ Available Now✨ Order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌 https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg Our Sponsors: * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 13 January 2026

With the New Year comes pressure to become the “best version” of yourself but true transformation starts with intention, patience, and compassion. 💫In this week’s episode of Life Happens with Barb & Michelle, we’re digging into a modern epidemic fueled by entitlement, comparison, and our fast-paced culture: impatience. We explore why slowing down is not a weakness, but the pathway to confidence, alignment, and ease as we enter 2026.💬 Barb shares why she chose patience as her intention word for 2026 and offers simple, grounded ways to cultivate patience in everyday life.💬 Michelle opens up about her struggle with waiting for things to align and how trusting her timing—and herself—completely shifted her experience.✨ What We Talk About• The entitlement epidemic: How instant gratification and individualism have shaped our expectations and how awareness helps us reconnect with compassion.• How impatience hurts us: Acting out of alignment, rushing decisions, and feeling hopeless when life isn’t moving fast enough.• Patience attains all things: Trusting your timing, embracing the “in-between,” and finding purpose in waiting seasons.• Building a relationship with yourself: Pausing, breathing, reconnecting, and beginning again, over and over.Remember: the day you plant the seed is not the day you eat the fruit.Have patience. Your small shifts matter—and they are creating a better tomorrow.📘 USA TODAY BESTSELLER — Dear Friend by Michelle Maros is out now!A powerful 365-day companion to help you cultivate self-love, clarity, presence, and inner peace.👉 Order your copy: https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg💛 Episode Topics The consequences of impatience Why we’re more entitled than ever How patience attains all things Combatting hopelessness and stress Cultivating patience in our daily lives Mentioned in today's episode:💛 Prayer of Saint Teresa of Avila: https://bit.ly/4qLmftu💬 We’d love to hear from you! What insight or moment resonated most with you in this episode? Share in the comments—we truly read every one.📅 Subscribe & Join Us Next Tuesday for another heartfelt episode of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle! 💕 🎙️ Host by: https://www.instagram.com/peaceful_barb/ https://www.instagram.com/michellemaros/ Join our community⬇️YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LifeHappensThePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifehappensthepodcast/Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifehappensthepodcast Listen to our podcast anywhere→ https://michellemaros.com/podcast/ 🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday ✨ Available Now✨ Order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌 https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg🔖 Hashtags:#Patience #NewYear #2026 #IntentionSetting #Entitlement Our Sponsors: * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 6 January 2026

“If you do what you’ve always done, you’ll get what you’ve always gotten.” Change isn’t something to fear—it’s an invitation to grow, evolve, and step into what’s possible. 💫In this week’s episode of Life Happens with Barb & Michelle, we close out the year with a powerful conversation about the one constant in life: change. Instead of viewing impermanence as something negative, we’re flipping the script and exploring how change can be a doorway to clarity, freedom, and fulfillment.All growth is born from change—and learning how to work with it, rather than against it, can transform the way you move through life.💬 Barb shares how embracing small shifts and cultivating self-awareness helped her recognize where change was needed in her life, ultimately leading to one of her biggest turning points.💬 Michelle opens up about her struggle with resisting change, getting stuck in the habit of complaining, and what helped her begin moving forward with intention. In this episode, we explore: Embracing Change: Reframing change as an opportunity instead of a disruption The Habit of Complaining: How staying in negativity keeps us stuck—and what to do instead Small Shifts, Big Growth: Why easing into change creates lasting transformation Practicing Presence: Finding peace by staying grounded in the present moment, even when things feel uncertain You may not know how the story ends—but every chapter offers a new beginning. Trust the process, honor the season you’re in, and allow change to guide you forward.📘 USA TODAY BESTSELLER — Dear Friend by Michelle Maros is out now!A powerful 365-day companion to help you cultivate self-love, clarity, presence, and inner peace.👉 Order your copy:https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg💛 Episode Topics Being alone during the holidays Redefining family, tradition, and what celebration means  Grieving and making space for difficult emotions Navigating disappointment with compassion Giving yourself grace, care, and permission to choose what you need 💬 We’d love to hear from you! What insight or moment resonated most with you in this episode? Share in the comments—we truly read every one.📅 Subscribe & Join Us Next Tuesday for another heartfelt episode of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle! 💕🎙️ Host by: https://www.instagram.com/peaceful_barb/ https://www.instagram.com/michellemaros/ Join our community⬇️YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LifeHappensThePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifehappensthepodcast/Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifehappensthepodcastListen to our podcast anywhere→ https://michellemaros.com/podcast/ 🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday✨ Available Now✨ Order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌 https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg Our Sponsors: * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 30 December 2025

Growth doesn’t happen all at once. It happens in honest moments, hard conversations, and small shifts we make every day. If you’ve been feeling disconnected, uncertain, or like you’re never quite enough, this conversation is for you.In this week’s episode of Life Happens with Barb & Michelle, we’re reflecting on some of the most meaningful moments from our podcast this year. Together, we revisit powerful conversations on navigating conflict in relationships, the loneliness epidemic, self-doubt, body image, and the quiet practices that help us come home to ourselves.This episode is a reminder that you’re not alone and that real growth begins with awareness, compassion, and presence.✨ In this episode, we explore powerful moments from past conversations, including: Navigating heated arguments with honesty and compassion — from Why Your Relationships Aren’t Working (And How Hard Conversations Can Help) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u88XpgOMGqA&t Why loneliness is rising and how to reconnect with yourself in a disconnected world — from Loneliness Is Killing Us (Connected but Disconnected) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CWZ1ij3Ii7Y Moving through self-doubt to rebuild confidence and clarity by trusting your intuition — from Self-Doubt Ends Here | Leaning Into Your Intuition and Inner Voice https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8UHQ1vas5_U&t Understanding body image and why true confidence comes from within—not external validation — from Why We Think We’re Not Enough: The Truth About Body Image & Confidence https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fKOFVr5HQ2Q 📘 USA TODAY BESTSELLER — Dear Friend by Michelle Maros is out now!A powerful 365-day companion to help you cultivate self-love, clarity, presence, and inner peace.👉 Order your copy: https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg📅 Subscribe & Join Us Next Tuesday for another heartfelt episode of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle! 💕🎙️ Host by: https://www.instagram.com/peaceful_barb/ https://www.instagram.com/michellemaros/ Join our community⬇️YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LifeHappensThePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifehappensthepodcast/Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifehappensthepodcast ✨ Available Now✨ Order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌 https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg Our Sponsors: * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 23 December 2025

What if a “successful” holiday wasn’t defined by perfect traditions, packed schedules, or being surrounded by family? What if this season could feel lighter—rooted in ease, presence, and honoring yourself? 💫In this week’s episode of Life Happens with Barb & Michelle, we’re answering your holiday questions and talking openly about navigating loneliness, grief, unwanted traditions, and disappointment. From estranged relationships and embracing solitude to feeling nostalgic or simply not feeling festive at all, this episode invites you to redefine what the holidays can mean for you.What We Talk About Navigating Loneliness — How to honor your feelings without getting stuck in them, and gentle ways to lift your spirits Creating New Memories — Loosening our grip on expectations and allowing new traditions to emerge Grieving During the Holidays — Making space for loss, estrangement, and difficult emotions; it’s okay if this season doesn’t feel joyful Navigating Disappointment — Offering yourself grace while taking small steps that empower you to shift your experience Remember: you’re allowed to celebrate differently.You’re allowed to choose rest over routine.You’re allowed to release traditions that no longer serve you.Whatever this season looks like, you deserve to move through it with gentleness, honesty, and authenticity.📘 USA TODAY BESTSELLER — Dear Friend by Michelle Maros is out now!A powerful 365-day companion to help you cultivate self-love, clarity, presence, and inner peace.👉 Order your copy: https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg💛 Episode Topics Being alone during the holidays Redefining family, tradition, and what celebration means  Grieving and making space for difficult emotions Navigating disappointment with compassion  Giving yourself grace, care, and permission to choose what you need 💬 We’d love to hear from you! What insight or moment resonated most with you in this episode? Share in the comments—we truly read every one.📅 Subscribe & Join Us Next Tuesday for another heartfelt episode of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle! 💕Today’s Episode Sponsors:💕CashappDownload Cash App Today: https://click.cash.app/ui6m/ineo05vp #CashAppPod. Cash App is a financial services platform, not a bank. Banking services provided by Cash App’s bank partner(s). Prepaid debit cards issued by Sutton Bank, Member FDIC. See terms and conditions at https://cash.app/legal/us/en-us/card-.... Direct Deposit, Overdraft Coverage and Discounts provided by Cash App, a Block, Inc. brand. Visit http://cash.app/legal/podcast for full disclosures.🎙️ Host by: https://www.instagram.com/peaceful_barb/ https://www.instagram.com/michellemaros/ Join our community⬇️YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LifeHappensThePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifehappensthepodcast/Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifehappensthepodcast Listen to our podcast anywhere→ https://michellemaros.com/podcast/ 🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday ✨ Available Now✨ Order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌 https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg Our Sponsors: * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 16 December 2025

The holidays don’t need to be perfect to be meaningful — here’s how to release the pressure and enjoy the season 💫On this week’s episode of Life Happens with Barb & Michelle, we’re diving into holiday stress, perfectionism, boundaries, and the real reason so many of us feel overwhelmed this time of year. With 62% of people reporting elevated holiday stress, this conversation will help you slow down, stay grounded, and make space for joy and presence.Whether you’re navigating family expectations, food triggers, financial pressure, or the urge to “do it all,” this episode offers practical guidance on creating a holiday season that feels peaceful and true to you.✨ What We Talk About How to release holiday perfectionism and find meaning in what’s real—not what’s flawless. The art of saying no and the freedom that comes with not overextending yourself. Checking in with your emotions: A simple practice for asking, “What do I desire and need this season?” Setting boundaries without guilt so you can protect your peace and energy. Navigating triggers & pressure: Barb opens up about food triggers and social overwhelm as a recovering bulimic. Michelle shares tools for managing financial stress and releasing unrealistic expectations. If you’ve ever felt anxious, stretched too thin, or disappointed by the holidays, this episode is your reminder: You’re allowed to slow down. You’re allowed to choose peace. You’re allowed to make this season meaningful in your own way.📘 USA TODAY BESTSELLER — Dear Friend by Michelle Maros is out now!A powerful 365-day companion to help you cultivate self-love, clarity, presence, and inner peace.👉 Order your copy: https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg💛 Episode Topics Saying No to Social Pressure — Navigating invitations from friends, family, and coworkers with confidence and compassion Managing Financial Stress — Rethinking gift-giving, events, and the cost of “holiday expectations” Handling Food Triggers — Staying grounded amid pressure to overindulge Avoiding Overextension — Setting healthy boundaries to protect your energy and well-being Letting Go of Perfectionism — Releasing the need to do it all and redefining what a meaningful holiday looks like 💬 We’d love to hear from you! What insight or moment resonated most with you in this episode? Share in the comments—we truly read every one.📅 Subscribe & Join Us Next Tuesday for another heartfelt episode of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle! 💕Today’s Episode Sponsors:💕Washington Red RaspberriesWashington Red Raspberries are a clean, simple, and seriously delicious way to add more  nutrition to your day. • They’re American grown, picked at peak ripeness, and frozen within hours to lock in nutrients  like fiber, antioxidants, and vitamin C. And they have no added sugar—just fruit, as nature  intended. Each serving is an excellent source of fiber (21% daily value) , high in antioxidant Vitamin C (30% daily value), low natural sugar, and a good source of folate.You can grab your own bag of fresh, delicious, and locally grown raspberries at the following retailers:Costco, Kroger, Meijer, and WinCo FoodsLook for “Product of the U.S.” on the bag. Want to discover new ways to use American frozen red raspberries and get more details on  where you can grab a bag of these delicious berries? ✨ Go to redrazz.org💕WayfairWayfair is here to help with any last-minute gifts, decor emergencies, and final touches to make your space feel merry and cozy. From bedding and linens to decor for every room in the house—Wayfair’s your one-stop shop.We’ve been updating our own spaces with Wayfair and love their wide selection, affordable prices, and free, easy delivery. From small touches to complete room makeovers, they have everything you need to create a home that feels just right.✨ Start browsing and get inspired at Wayfair.com🎙️ Host by: https://www.instagram.com/peaceful_barb/ https://www.instagram.com/michellemaros/ Join our community⬇️YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LifeHappensThePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifehappensthepodcast/Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifehappensthepodcast Listen to our podcast anywhere→ https://michellemaros.com/podcast/ 🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday ✨ Available Now✨ Order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌 https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg Our Sponsors: * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 9 December 2025

What if the very thing you’re ashamed of is actually the thing that sets you free?In today’s episode, we explore the truth that being messy is part of being human — and why perfection is the biggest lie we’ve ever been sold. 💫This week on Life Happens with Barb & Michelle, we’re joined by actress, comedian, and author Zosia Mamet for a deeply honest conversation about recovery, self-acceptance, and learning to embrace our imperfections.In a world that glorifies thinness, achievement, and flawlessness, it’s easy to feel like you’ll never be “enough.” Zosia shares her raw journey through eating disorder recovery, the pressure to be perfect, and the unexpected power of community and vulnerability.If you’ve ever struggled with self-worth, comparison, or feeling alone in your pain — this episode is your reminder that you are worthy, lovable, and not alone.✨ Episode Highlights• Releasing Comparison: How social media fuels unrealistic expectations—and how to break free.• Healing From an Eating Disorder: Understanding the roots of addiction and why support is essential.• The Importance of Community: Why you don’t have to (and shouldn’t) struggle alone.• Learning From Imperfection: Growth happens in the mistakes, the messiness, and the trying again.This conversation is a soft place to land — a safe space to breathe, heal, and remember who you really are. 🌸DEAR FRIEND: USA TODAY & INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLERWe are so proud to announce that Michelle’s book Dear Friend is now a USA TODAY and International Bestseller!This moment is only possible because of YOU — your support, your reviews, your love, and your belief in this work.Dear Friend offers 365 daily reflections to help you return to yourself with compassion, clarity, and peace.👉 Order your copy here: https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg💛 Episode Topics• How to break free from comparison and impossible beauty standards• The truth about perfectionism—and its impact on your mental and emotional well-being• Zosia Mamet’s honest journey through eating disorder recovery• Why community, vulnerability, and support are essential for healing• How to embrace imperfection and begin accepting yourself from the inside out💬 We’d love to hear from you!Which insight or moment resonated with you the most in this episode? Share in the comments below—we truly read every single one.📅 Subscribe & Join Us Next Tuesday for another heartfelt episode of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle! 💕⭐ Special Guest:https://www.instagram.com/zosiamamet/And grab a copy of her amazing book: https://bit.ly/484YFRW✨ Your New Must-Have Mindfulness Mug ✨ PMPL x Uncommon GoodsThis isn’t just a mug—it’s a daily pause, a breath, a moment to return to yourself.Every sip becomes a gentle reset, with year-round reflections designed to help you slow down, reconnect, and ground your day in intention. Make self-care simple, beautiful, and meaningful.Shop your Mindfulness Mug here:https://www.uncommongoods.com/product/daily-mindfulness-interactive-qr-mug🎙️ Host by: https://www.instagram.com/peaceful_barb/ https://www.instagram.com/michellemaros/ Join our community⬇️YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LifeHappensThePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifehappensthepodcast/Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifehappensthepodcast Listen to our podcast anywhere→ https://michellemaros.com/podcast/ 🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday ✨ Available Now✨ Order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌 https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg Our Sponsors: * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 2 December 2025

Self-love isn’t always soft, easy, or comfortable—sometimes it means giving yourself the tough love you’ve avoided and finally doing the hard things. Growth happens in the moments we choose courage over comfort. 💫This week on Life Happens with Barb & Michelle, we’re answering your questions about self-love and how to build a strong foundation within. With envy, self-doubt, comparison, and self-judgment at an all-time high, this conversation offers a gentle, grounded guide for breaking through the noise and cultivating real confidence.💬 Barb opens up about the power of positive self-talk and how it helped her heal from perfectionism and years of self-doubt.💬 Michelle shares her personal experience with envy and how understanding the root of it transformed her relationship with herself.✨ Episode Highlights• Cultivating Real Self-Love: How to act with compassion even when your mind is filled with negative thoughts.• Releasing Tough Love Habits: Identifying when you’re bypassing your emotions and learning to honour your true self-love language.• From Envy to Self-Satisfaction: Recognizing comparison, interrupting the negative narrative, and rewriting your internal dialogue.• Navigating Singleness: It’s okay to feel disappointment—while still choosing joy, connection, and fulfillment in your life today.Remember: You don’t need to earn your self-love. There is nothing you must prove or achieve to be worthy of kindness, compassion, and care. 🌸 USA TODAY and INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLER 📖Michelle’s new book Dear Friend is out now!A daily companion with 365 reflections to help you cultivate self-love, clarity, and inner peace.👉 Order your copy here: https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg💛 Episode Topics: Releasing self-doubt and constant self-criticism Cultivating kinder, more loving self-talk Letting go of judgment, comparison, and the urge to “fix” yourself Finding genuine satisfaction and love for your life as it is Navigating singleness with confidence and self-worth 💬 We’d love to hear from you! What insight or moment resonated most with you in this episode? Share in the comments—we truly read every one.📅 Subscribe & Join Us Next Tuesday for another heartfelt episode of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle! 💕NEW MINDFULNESS MUG 💕 PMPL x Uncommon GoodsThis isn’t just a mug—it’s a daily pause, a moment to breathe, and a gentle reminder to come back home to yourself. Each sip becomes a mindful reset, with year-round reflections delivered straight to your mug. Make self-care simple and meaningful. Shop your mug here:https://www.uncommongoods.com/product/daily-mindfulness-interactive-qr-mug🎙️ Host by: https://www.instagram.com/peaceful_barb/ https://www.instagram.com/michellemaros/ Join our community⬇️YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LifeHappensThePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifehappensthepodcast/Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifehappensthepodcast Listen to our podcast anywhere→ https://michellemaros.com/podcast/ 🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday ✨ Available Now✨ Order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌 https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg Our Sponsors: * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 25 November 2025

When hope feels distant, lean into this truth: you were created for these times. There is power and purpose in the actions you take today — all you need is a little faith. 💫This week on Life Happens with Barb & Michelle, we’re talking about navigating unprecedented times by grounding ourselves in hope and leaning into faith. Join us for an encouraging conversation about taking purposeful action today while holding a vision for a better tomorrow.💬 Barb vulnerably shares the hopelessness she felt during aging and divorce — and how she moved through those fears by trusting faith.💬 Michelle explores the difference between hope and faith, and how she’s learned to navigate dark seasons with a realistic belief that things can get better.✨ Episode Highlights Faith in action: Rising above despair and taking meaningful steps toward a better tomorrow. You were made for these times: Trusting your worth and stepping into your purpose right where you are. Things can change: Believing in the collective power of community, compassion, and action. You’re not alone: Finding strength in connection during shared grief and uncertainty. Remember — in unprecedented times, the greatest thing we can do is have faith that the actions we take today are planting the seeds of hope for tomorrow. 🌸Dive deeper: Here’s the full Clarissa Pinkola Estés piece we reference in the episode:https://www.awakin.org/v2/read/view.php?tid=2195USA TODAY BESTSELLER 📖 Michelle’s new book, Dear Friend, is out now!A daily companion with 365 reflections to help you cultivate self-love, clarity, and inner peace.👉Order your copy here:  https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg💛 Episode Topics: Cultivating hope in a better tomorrow Trusting that your actions are impactful Leaning on your community  Feeling your feelings through the difficulties Embracing the present moment fully 💬 We’d love to hear from you! What insight or moment resonated most with you in this episode? Share in the comments—we truly read every one.📅 Subscribe & Join Us Next Tuesday for another heartfelt episode of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle! 💕Today’s Episode Sponsors:💕Nature’s SunshineGive yourself a little daily reset with Chlorophyll Stick Packs (or any of the amazing goodies from Nature’s Sunshine!). As a gift, you’ll get 20% off your first order + free shipping. ✨ Just head to naturessunshine.com and use code LIFEHAPPENS at checkout.🎙️ Host by: https://www.instagram.com/peaceful_barb/ https://www.instagram.com/michellemaros/ Join our community⬇️YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LifeHappensThePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifehappensthepodcast/Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifehappensthepodcast Listen to our podcast anywhere→ https://michellemaros.com/podcast/ 🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday ✨ Available Now✨ Order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌 https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg🔖 Hashtags:#DearFriendthebook #MichelleMaros #Hope #CreatingaBetterTomorrow #BeingPresent Our Sponsors: * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 18 November 2025

 It’s the small shifts that create a big impact— trust that your efforts are leading to greatness. 💫This week on Life Happens with Barb & Michelle, we’re introducing The 1% Practice — a conversation on how small, intentional actions can create the life of your dreams. From cultivating patience to releasing perfectionism, this episode is for anyone seeking more ease, confidence, and joy in daily life.💬 Barb shares how letting go of perfectionism and rigidity helped her find grounding through patience and presence.💬 Michelle opens up about the power of tiny joys — and how small self-care moments spark hope, happiness, and healing.✨ Episode Highlights The 1% Practice: Small, consistent steps lead to meaningful growth — just 1% of your day can positively impact the rest. Discipline & Consistency: Commit to your well-being and find a sustainable rhythm that supports you long-term. Pause, Breathe, Begin Again: Take the edge off life by returning to the present moment and choosing your next step with intention. Release Rigidity: There are no rules or timelines — your path is your own, and what works for you may look different for others. Finding bliss in your daily life begins with the small, mindful moments we weave into our routines. Just pause, breathe, and begin again. 🌸📖 Michelle’s new book, Dear Friend, is out now!A daily companion with 365 reflections to help you cultivate self-love, clarity, and inner peace.👉Order your copy here: https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg💛 Episode Topics: Understanding we can only control our actions Leaning into who you want to be and your desires Seeking the tiny joys to spark hope and resiliency  Trusting that your practice is benefiting you Grounding yourself in the present moment 💬 We’d love to hear from you! What insight or moment resonated most with you in this episode? Share in the comments—we truly read every one.📅 Subscribe & Join Us Next Tuesday for another heartfelt episode of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle! 💕Today’s Episode Sponsors:💕Wayfair“Cozify” your space with Wayfair’s curated collection of easy, affordable fall updates. From comfy recliners to cozy bedding and autumn decor. Find it all for way less at Wayfair.We’ve been updating our own spaces with Wayfair and love their wide selection, affordable prices, and free, easy delivery. From small touches to complete room makeovers, they have everything you need to create a home that feels just right.✨ Start browsing and get inspired at Wayfair.com 🎙️ Host by: https://www.instagram.com/peaceful_barb/ https://www.instagram.com/michellemaros/ Join our community⬇️YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LifeHappensThePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifehappensthepodcast/Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifehappensthepodcast Listen to our podcast anywhere→ https://michellemaros.com/podcast/ 🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday ✨ Available Now✨ Order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌 https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg🔖 Hashtags:#DearFriendthebook #MichelleMaros #1%Practice #ThePractice #PeacefulBarb Our Sponsors: * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 11 November 2025

Stop settling — it’s time to choose your dreams over fear. 💫This week on Life Happens with Barb & Michelle, we’re celebrating two incredible milestones with Michelle: the launch of her debut book Dear Friend and her 40th birthday! 🎉In this heartfelt conversation, Michelle opens up about her inspiring journey to becoming a published author — from overcoming fear and self-doubt to trusting her timing and refusing to settle for anything less than her dream life.If you’ve ever felt held back by fear, uncertainty, or the weight of others’ expectations, this episode is your reminder that it’s never too late to believe in yourself and follow what truly lights you up.✨ Episode Highlights: Overcoming Self-Doubt: Choosing confidence and resilience over fear Trusting Your Timing: Believing everything is unfolding exactly as it should Following Your Dreams: Refusing to settle for anything less than the life you desire Combatting Loneliness: Creating connection and belonging through your purpose This episode is your gentle nudge to prioritize yourself, reignite your passion, and start listening to the whispers of your heart.📖 Michelle’s new book — Dear Friend — is out now!A daily companion with 365 reflections to help you cultivate self-love, clarity, and inner peace.👉Order your copy here: https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg💛 Episode Topics: Ground yourself in the present moment Find connection and clarity through your practice Trust your timeline and the path you’re on Set the intention to prioritize yourself Follow your dreams without fear or self-doubt 💬 We’d love to hear from you! What insight or moment resonated most with you in this episode? Share in the comments—we truly read every one.📅 Subscribe & Join Us Next Tuesday for another heartfelt episode of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle! 💕Today’s Episode Sponsors:💕CashappWe’re excited to be sponsored by Cash App in today’s episode! If you want to bank without all the fees—send, spend, and grow your money the way you want– Cash App is for you.Download Cash App Today: https://click.cash.app/ui6m/ineo05vp #CashAppPod.Cash App is a financial services platform, not a bank. Banking services provided by Cash App’s bank partner(s). Prepaid debit cards issued by Sutton Bank, Member FDIC. See terms and conditions at https://cash.app/legal/us/en-us/card-.... Direct Deposit, Overdraft Coverage and Discounts provided by Cash App, a Block, Inc. brand. Visit http://cash.app/legal/podcast for full disclosures.🎙️ Host by: https://www.instagram.com/peaceful_barb/ https://www.instagram.com/michellemaros/ Join our community⬇️YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LifeHappensThePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifehappensthepodcast/Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifehappensthepodcast Listen to our podcast anywhere→ https://michellemaros.com/podcast/ 🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday ✨ Available Now✨ Order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌 https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg🔖 Hashtags:#DearFriendthebook #MichelleMaros #BookLanch #DreamsComeTrue #Loneliness Our Sponsors: * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 4 November 2025

This week on Life Happens with Barb and Michelle. We’re revisiting one of the most meaningful conversations we’ve ever had — our grief episode. Together, we open up about our personal journeys with loss and how we’ve supported each other through it as mother and daughter. We talk about the lessons we’ve learned, the resilience we’ve found, and the love that continues to guide us through it all.💬 Barb speaks vulnerably about her current experience with grief as a dear friend has recently entered hospice care. She reflects on what it means to grieve in the present moment while also recalling the pain of supporting Michelle through the loss of her dad—while carrying her own.💬 Michelle shares how she’s navigated her dad’s passing over the years and what it means to live with grief. She also offers one of her favorite practices for moving through the emotional waves that still arise.Here’s what you can expect from this heartfelt episode:🌿 Lean on Others: Grieving doesn’t have to be done alone. Communicate your needs and let loved ones support you.🌿 Healing Isn’t a Destination: Grief is a continuous journey. Some days will feel heavier than others—allow yourself grace.🌿 Feel Your Feelings: Embrace your emotions without judgment or timeline. There’s no “right” way to grieve.🌿 Celebrate Love: Grief is love with nowhere to go. Reframe it as gratitude for having loved so deeply.Grief can be a tender, complex journey—but you don’t have to walk it alone. This episode was created with love, to remind you that healing is possible, and connection is always within reach.We’re so grateful to have you with us! As a mother-daughter duo, we’re passionate about sharing the lessons we’ve learned through our own journeys, with the hope of inspiring you to live your best life, no matter what challenges come your way.Join us next Tuesday for another episode of Life Happens the Podcast! 💕Join our community⬇️YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LifeHappensThePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifehappensthepodcast/Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifehappensthepodcast Listen to our podcast anywhere→ https://bit.ly/4iMnVPn 🎙️ New episodes are released every Tuesday🎧🎙️ Host by: https://www.instagram.com/peaceful_barb/ https://www.instagram.com/michellemaros/ Join our community⬇️YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LifeHappensThePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifehappensthepodcast/Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifehappensthepodcast Listen to our podcast anywhere→ https://michellemaros.com/podcast/ 🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday ✨ Pre-order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌 https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg Today’s Episode Sponsor:We’re excited to be sponsored by Cash App in today’s episode! If you want to bank without all the fees—send, spend, and grow your money the way you want– Cash App is for you.Download Cash App Today: https://click.cash.app/ui6m/ineo05vp #CashAppPod.Cash App is a financial services platform, not a bank. Banking services provided by Cash App’s bank partner(s). Prepaid debit cards issued by Sutton Bank, Member FDIC. See terms and conditions at https://cash.app/legal/us/en-us/card-agreement. Direct Deposit, Overdraft Coverage and Discounts provided by Cash App, a Block, Inc. brand. Visit http://cash.app/legal/podcast for full disclosures. Our Sponsors: * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 28 October 2025

How do you know when enough is enough?Join us for a heartfelt conversation on trusting your intuition, leaning on your values, and honoring your feelings when navigating toxic or one-sided relationships.In this week’s episode of Life Happens with Barb & Michelle, we’re answering your personal questions about recovering from toxic relationships, managing one-sided friendships, grieving relationship endings, and more.💬 In this episode: Barb shares her unique perspective on forgiveness and letting go, drawing from her experiences as a divorcee and recovering perfectionist. Michelle opens up about grieving her estranged stepdad, and her experiences with both platonic and romantic breakups — including the stigma around ending friendships. ✨ Episode Highlights: Enough is enough: Lean on your values, desires, and intuition to know your limits in relationships. Recovering from toxic treatment: Forgive yourself as you heal from hurtful relationships. Endings are okay: Find peace and acceptance when relationships — especially friendships — don’t last forever. Grieving estranged relationships: Feel your feelings and set boundaries as you process grief that comes from distance or estrangement. Remember, people come into our lives for a reason, a season, or a lifetime — and it’s okay for relationships to end and dynamics to shift. Trust that the right people will stay.📖 Michelle’s new book — Dear Friend — is now available for pre-order!Filled with 365 reflections, it’s your daily companion for cultivating self-love, clarity, and inner peace.👉 Pre-order your copy here:  https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg 💛 Episode Topics: When to know enough is enough Handling one-side relationships Accepting we can’t change people Healing isn’t a linear process Feeling your feelings when ending a relationship 💬 We’d love to hear from you! What insight or moment resonated most with you in this episode? Share in the comments—we truly read every one.📅 Subscribe & Join Us Next Tuesday for another heartfelt episode of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle! 💕Today’s Episode Sponsors:💕Nature’s SunshineGive yourself a little daily reset with Chlorophyll Stick Packs (or any of the amazing goodies from Nature’s Sunshine!). As a gift, you’ll get 20% off your first order + free shipping. ✨ Just head to naturessunshine.com and use code LIFEHAPPENS at checkout.💕Wayfair“Cozify” your space with Wayfair’s curated collection of easy, affordable fall updates. From comfy recliners to cozy bedding and autumn decor. Find it all for way less at Wayfair.We’ve been updating our own spaces with Wayfair and love their wide selection, affordable prices, and free, easy delivery. From small touches to complete room makeovers, they have everything you need to create a home that feels just right.✨ Start browsing and get inspired at Wayfair.com🎙️ Host by: https://www.instagram.com/peaceful_barb/ https://www.instagram.com/michellemaros/ Join our community⬇️YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LifeHappensThePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifehappensthepodcast/Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifehappensthepodcast Listen to our podcast anywhere→ https://michellemaros.com/podcast/ 🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday ✨ Pre-order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌 https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg Our Sponsors: * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 21 October 2025

You don’t have to attend every argument you’re invited to. 💭In this week’s episode of Life Happens with Barb & Michelle, we’re diving into how to protect your peace by picking your battles, knowing your triggers, setting boundaries, and loving people from afar.We continue our conversation on navigating disrespect and difficult interactions by strengthening your discernment muscle. Barb and Michelle share personal stories, practical tools, and compassionate strategies to help you manage conflict without losing your inner calm.💬 In this episode: Barb opens up about lessons learned when she was triggered and crossed her own boundaries after divorce—and how she now practices loving people from afar. Michelle shares her mindset shift from being hard on herself for mistakes to embracing life as a laboratory for growth and learning. ✨ Episode Highlights Don’t test yourself: Keep honoring your boundaries, even when you feel confident in your healing. Boundaries are meant to protect your peace. Develop a relationship with yourself: Balance compassion and accountability. Love yourself enough to grow through the hard things. Pick your battles: Be wise about what deserves your time, energy, and attention—you don’t have to attend every argument you’re invited to. Know your triggers: Be aware of the areas where you’re vulnerable and communicate boundaries to protect your peace. From recognizing your triggers to communicating with intention, this episode will help you preserve your mental health, stay rooted in your values, and engage only in the battles that truly matter.📖 Michelle’s new book — Dear Friend — is now available for pre-order!Filled with 365 reflections, it’s your daily companion for cultivating self-love, clarity, and inner peace.👉 Pre-order your copy here: https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg💛 Episode Topics: Outer peace begins with inner peace Knowing is this worth your time, energy, and efforts Setting and Maintaining boundaries  Loving people from afar The power of pausing before reacting 💬 We’d love to hear from you! What insight or moment resonated most with you in this episode? Share in the comments—we truly read every one.📅 Subscribe & Join Us Next Tuesday for another heartfelt episode of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle! 💕Today’s Episode Sponsor:“Cozify” your space with Wayfair’s curated collection of easy, affordable fall updates. From comfy recliners to cozy bedding and autumn decor. Find it all for way less at Wayfair.We’ve been updating our own spaces with Wayfair and love their wide selection, affordable prices, and free, easy delivery. From small touches to complete room makeovers, they have everything you need to create a home that feels just right.✨ Start browsing and get inspired at Wayfair.com🎙️ Host by: https://www.instagram.com/peaceful_barb/ https://www.instagram.com/michellemaros/ Join our community⬇️YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LifeHappensThePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifehappensthepodcast/Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifehappensthepodcast Listen to our podcast anywhere→ https://michellemaros.com/podcast/ 🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday ✨ Pre-order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌 https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg🔖 Hashtags:#Disrespect #NavigatingDisrespect #Triggers #HealthyRelationships #Boundaries Our Sponsors: * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 14 October 2025

In a world filled with division, tension, and unkindness, how do we stay grounded in our peace and self-worth? This week on Life Happens with Barb & Michelle, we’re unpacking one of the most common yet painful behaviors we all experience — disrespect. From entitlement and impatience to unhealed trauma and lack of accountability, disrespect has become a quiet epidemic affecting our workplaces, families, and friendships.Join Barb and Michelle as they share heartfelt stories and practical tools to help you navigate disrespect with confidence, compassion, and clarity—without losing your peace.💬 Barb opens up about her personal experiences with disrespect in both business and family life, including how she made amends and healed her relationship with her mother.💬 Michelle reflects on how rudeness seems to be at an all-time high and how she’s learning to reconnect with her values to respond from a place of confidence instead of reaction.✨ Episode Highlights: Releasing entitlement: How superiority thinking feeds disrespect. Not taking it personally: Remembering that cruelty often stems from inner pain. Bridging the gap: Accountability, apology, and empathy heal divides. Reconnecting to values: Why choosing kindness over success is revolutionary. Loving from afar: When boundaries become the most loving act. 💡 Remember: Relationships are a two-way street. Healing begins when both sides are willing to listen, communicate, and take accountability.📖 Michelle’s new book —Dear Friend — is now available for pre-order!Filled with 365 reflections, it’s your daily companion for cultivating self-love, clarity, and inner peace.👉 Pre-order your copy here 💛 Episode Topics: How we can bridge the gap during these divided times Building the confidence to push back on disrespect The impact of social media and the pandemic on meanness and disrespect Hurt people hurt people, but it’s never an excuse Having a relationship with yourself to begin to show up with intention and awareness 💬 We’d love to hear from you! What insight or moment resonated most with you in this episode? Share in the comments—we truly read every one.📅 Subscribe & Join Us Next Tuesday for another heartfelt episode of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle! 💕 Today’s Episode Sponsor:Download Cash App Today: https://click.cash.app/ui6m/ineo05vp #CashAppPod. Cash App is a financial services platform, not a bank. Banking services provided by Cash App’s bank partner(s). Prepaid debit cards issued by Sutton Bank, Member FDIC. See terms and conditions at https://cash.app/legal/us/en-us/card-.... Direct Deposit, Overdraft Coverage and Discounts provided by Cash App, a Block, Inc. brand. Visit http://cash.app/legal/podcast for full disclosures. 🎙️ Host by: https://www.instagram.com/peaceful_barb/ https://www.instagram.com/michellemaros/ Join our community⬇️YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LifeHappensThePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifehappensthepodcast/Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifehappensthepodcast Listen to our podcast anywhere→ https://michellemaros.com/podcast/ 🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday ✨ Pre-order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌 https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg Our Sponsors: * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 7 October 2025

What if the secret to wellness isn’t pushing harder — but softening into ease?This week on Life Happens with Barb & Michelle, we welcome the incredible Tara Stiles, founder of Strala Yoga, for a transformative conversation on redefining wellness. Together, we explore how movement, softness, and presence can heal both mind and body — and why breaking free from rigid rules is the key to harmony.💬 Tara shares her journey from anger to action — transforming yoga into an accessible, welcoming practice for all.💬 Barb & Michelle reflect on their own struggles with the wellness world and how Tara’s approach helped them reconnect with themselves.Episode Highlights: Your practice is YOURS: Forget the rules — wellness is personal. Living softly in a harsh world: Release tension, stress, and impatience by choosing ease. Letting anger guide you: Rage can illuminate the path to your greatest passion. The body-mind connection: Peace begins when we listen to our bodies and our feelings. 💫 As a special gift, Tara is offering listeners 50% off the Strala Yoga app — making it easy to bring mindfulness and movement into your daily life. Use code LIFEHAPPENS at StralaHome.com.📖 And don’t forget — Michelle’s new book, Dear Friend, is now available for pre-order! With 365 daily reflections, it’s your companion for beginning each day with intention, clarity, and self-love.👉 Get your copy here → https://amzn.to/3Us9eqgToday’s Episode Sponsor:Give yourself a little daily reset with Chlorophyll Stick Packs (or any of the amazing goodies from Nature’s Sunshine!). As a gift, you’ll get 20% off your first order + free shipping. Just head to naturessunshine.com and use code LIFEHAPPENS at checkout.🎙️ Host by: https://www.instagram.com/peaceful_barb/ https://www.instagram.com/michellemaros/ Join our community⬇️YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LifeHappensThePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifehappensthepodcast/Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifehappensthepodcast Listen to our podcast anywhere→ https://michellemaros.com/podcast/ 🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday ✨ Pre-order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌 https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg Our Sponsors: * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 30 September 2025

Are You Living Your Life—Or Someone Else’s? This week on Life Happens with Barb & Michelle, we’re answering your questions on how to reconnect with yourself, release negative emotions, and find strength from within. From people-pleasing to imposter syndrome to midlife fears, this honest conversation offers comfort, clarity, and encouragement for anyone ready to write their own chapters.💬 Barb opens up about her journey with imposter syndrome and how she discovered true confidence and inner strength.💬 Michelle shares candid reflections on the fear of aging and how she’s learning to live authentically, aligned with her own desires rather than societal expectations.Episode Highlights Viewing peace as strength and learning to prioritize your own needs Accepting and honoring your emotions without judgment Finding comfort and confidence in your own presence Releasing the self-criticism around aging and life timelines Building confidence when imposter syndrome creeps in Happiness and peace aren’t found outside of us—they’re choices we make every day. Tune in to discover how to start living the life you choose, with more joy, authenticity, and true success.💫 Take the next step in writing your own chapters—pre-order Dear Friend, Michelle’s new book with 365 daily reflections to begin each day with positive intention, nurture emotional well-being, gain clarity, and build lasting confidence.👉 Get your copy here → https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg💛 Episode Topics: Redefining peace as strength Giving yourself permission to feel Unlearning survival mode The blessing of aging Releasing self-judgment Realigning with your dreams We’d love to hear from you! 💬 What resonated most with you in this episode? Share your thoughts in the comments—we read every single one.Today’s Episode Sponsor:Download Cash App Today: https://click.cash.app/ui6m/ineo05vp #CashAppPod. Cash App is a financial services platform, not a bank. Banking services provided by Cash App’s bank partner(s). Prepaid debit cards issued by Sutton Bank, Member FDIC. See terms and conditions at https://cash.app/legal/us/en-us/card-agreement. Direct Deposit, Overdraft Coverage and Discounts provided by Cash App, a Block, Inc. brand. Visit http://cash.app/legal/podcast for full disclosures. 🎙️ Host by: https://www.instagram.com/peaceful_barb/ https://www.instagram.com/michellemaros/ Join our community⬇️YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LifeHappensThePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifehappensthepodcast/Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifehappensthepodcast Listen to our podcast anywhere→ https://michellemaros.com/podcast/ 🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday ✨ Pre-order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌 https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg Our Sponsors: * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 23 September 2025

When life feels too full, your greatest power is presence. 🌿This week on Life Happens with Barb & Michelle, we’re breaking down how to move through overwhelm with ease and resilience. You’ll learn practical tools to pause, reset, and breathe, while letting go of what you can’t control. Remember—you’re not broken or in need of fixing. You’re worthy, just as you are.✨ Episode Highlights: Fixing vs. Shifting: releasing the idea that we’re broken The power of small shifts in creating lasting change Talking back to worry and taking back your control Releasing thoughts and tasks that weigh on the mind Building resilience by countering apathy with curiosity and fun Discover how to anchor yourself in the present moment, release the mental noise, and reconnect with what truly matters—so you can navigate challenges with clarity, calm, and confidence.💫 Pre-order Dear Friend — Michelle’s new book with 365 daily reflections for emotional well-being, clarity, and confidence.👉 Get your copy here → https://amzn.to/3Us9eqgJoin our community⬇️YouTubeInstagramSubstackTikTokListen to our podcast anywhere→ click here🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday🎧Follow us @MichelleMaros and @Peaceful_Barb and share your experiences with us @LifeHappensthePodcast or at Michellemaros.com/podcast. You can also find us on Substack at Love Notes by Michelle Maros and Peaceful Mind Peaceful Life.Click here for Barb’s book, The Practice.  Our Sponsors: * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 16 September 2025

Multitasking is quietly killing our productivity. Rushing through everything at once leaves us scattered, stressed, and less effective. What if slowing down, practicing patience, and being present was actually the key to real success?This week on Life Happens with Barb & Michelle, we’re challenging the myth of multitasking and offering a healthier, more sustainable approach—one rooted in presence and ease. Together, we explore:✨ Moving from a “monkey mind” to focused awareness✨ Why multitasking fragments our attention and reduces productivity✨ Letting go of guilt and shame through intentional action✨ The power of patience—and how to cultivate it✨ Finding balance between work and personal life💬 Barb shares timeless wisdom on understanding the mind and staying grounded in the present.💬 Michelle offers fresh insights and powerful visuals on how slowing down can transform the way we live and work.This episode is a gentle reminder that even in the busiest seasons, patience and presence will always serve us better than hustle and overwhelm.✨ Pre-order Dear Friend—Michelle’s new book with 365 daily reflections for emotional well-being, clarity, and confidence. Get your copy here → https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg💛 Episode Highlights: Understanding the “monkey mind” The power of presence in daily life Navigating life’s pressures with ease Exploring the mind–body connection Cultivating patience as a virtue Practical strategies for emotional well-being Creating balance and presence in your life We’d love to hear from you! 💬What resonated most with you in this episode? Share your thoughts in the comments—we read every single one.📅 Subscribe & Join Us Next Tuesday for another heartfelt episode of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle! 💕🎙️ Host by: https://www.instagram.com/peaceful_barb/ https://www.instagram.com/michellemaros/ Join our community⬇️YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LifeHappensThePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifehappensthepodcast/Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifehappensthepodcast Listen to our podcast anywhere→ https://michellemaros.com/podcast/ 🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday Our Sponsors: * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 9 September 2025

Discovering Your Purpose in Life: From finding levity during hardships, appreciating the present moment, and discovering your purpose in life– this is an episode that will inspire and shift your perspective on life. This week on Life Happens with Barb & Michelle, we’re joined by our dear friend—actor, writer, comedian, and activist—Tyler Merritt. In this heartfelt and profound conversation, we explore how life’s challenges can become powerful teachers of purpose, gratitude, and joy.Together, we share:✨ The courage and freedom of standing vulnerably in your truth✨ How to heal and find levity in the midst of hardship✨ The gift of presence in cherishing life’s everyday moments✨ Ways to discover hope and purpose, even through life’s difficulties💬 Tyler vulnerably opens up about his cancer diagnosis and how it transformed his appreciation for life.💬 Barb and Michelle reflect on their own journeys of finding meaning, joy, and resilience despite imperfections and challenges.This episode is an invitation to shift your perspective and rediscover the beauty and purpose woven into each moment.✨ Pre-order Dear Friend — Michelle’s new book with 365 daily reflections for emotional well-being, clarity, and confidence.📖 Get your copy here → https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg💛 Episode Highlights: Express yourself with confidence and vulnerability Heal from perfectionism by embracing humor Set clear intentions to spread love and light Create a positive impact on the world around you Fully appreciate the beauty of the present moment We’d love to hear from you! 💬What resonated most with you in this episode? Share your thoughts in the comments—we read every single one.📅 Subscribe & Join Us Next Tuesday for another heartfelt episode of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle! 💕🎙️ Host by: https://www.instagram.com/peaceful_barb/ https://www.instagram.com/michellemaros/ Join our community⬇️YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LifeHappensThePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifehappensthepodcast/Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifehappensthepodcast Listen to our podcast anywhere→ https://michellemaros.com/podcast/ 🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday ✨ Pre-order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌 https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg Our Sponsors: * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 2 September 2025

Feeling overwhelmed by life? Whether it’s healing from trauma, navigating the pressures of aging, or dealing with critical people, this episode of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle is your guide to finding self-compassion, presence, and resilience in the middle of it all.In this month’s Q&A, we share real-life tips and personal stories to help you: Manage overwhelm and stress in everyday life Heal from past trauma and release guilt Set healthy boundaries with difficult people Stay grounded and confident as you age Stop taking things personally Use affirmations and mindfulness to build resilience 💬 Barb opens up about the pressure she’s felt with aging and how she shifts her mindset to stay grounded.💬 Michelle shares her journey of healing from trauma, navigating unsupportive relationships, and cultivating daily self-love.✨ Pre-order Dear Friend — Michelle’s new book with 365 daily reflections for emotional well-being, clarity, and confidence.📖 Get your copy here → https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg💛 Episode Highlights: Navigating the mental and emotional impact of aging Healing is a journey, not a destination Practicing the pause before big decisions Releasing the need for external validation How daily affirmations can change your perspective This episode is sponsored by WayfairRefresh your home or workspace just in time for the school year with Wayfair’s affordable, stylish options—plus free, easy delivery. 🛋🛒 Start exploring → Wayfair.com We’d love to hear from you! 💬What resonated most with you in this episode? Share your thoughts in the comments—we read every single one.📅 Subscribe & Join Us Next Tuesday for another heartfelt episode of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle! 💕🎙️ Host by: https://www.instagram.com/peaceful_barb/ https://www.instagram.com/michellemaros/ Join our community⬇️YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LifeHappensThePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifehappensthepodcast/Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifehappensthepodcast Listen to our podcast anywhere→ https://michellemaros.com/podcast/ 🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday ✨ Pre-order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌 https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg Our Sponsors: * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 26 August 2025

Your mental health is your competitive advantage. Learn how to integrate mindfulness and emotional wellness into your daily life—especially when you’re navigating high expectations, constant pressure, and a packed schedule. ⬇️In this special episode, we sit down with former NFL athlete and children’s book author Brandin Bryant and sports psychologist Dr. Desaree “Dr. Dez” Festa to de-stigmatize mental health and share how mindfulness can become your greatest tool—whether you’re an athlete, student, or simply living in a high-pressure environment.You’ll discover how to: Build a mindfulness practice that actually works for you Accept mistakes and move forward with confidence Handle outside opinions from social media and your surroundings Boost your mental performance under pressure Let go of perfectionism and embrace a growth mindset 💬 Brandin opens up about learning mindfulness in college and how prioritizing mental health helped him thrive in the NFL.💬 Dr. Dez shares powerful research and real-world strategies for building resilience and reaching your optimal performance zone.✨ Pre-order Dear Friend — Michelle’s new book with 365 daily reflections for emotional well-being, clarity, and confidence. Get your copy here → https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg Our Sponsors: * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 19 August 2025

Life is unpredictable—and learning to navigate change with grace isn’t always easy.In this heartfelt episode of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle, we dive into the emotional realities of unexpected loss, transition, and the journey toward acceptance.Barb opens up about the grief and growth she experienced during her recent divorce—offering honest reflections and practical wisdom.Michelle shares the profound impact of losing her father, and how she continues to find meaning and healing through life’s uncertainties.Together, this mother-daughter conversation offers powerful reframes, gentle encouragement, and real-life tools to help you face life’s twists and turns with self-compassion, resilience, and hope.✨ Pre-order Dear Friend – Michelle’s brand new book filled with daily inspiration, emotional support, and grounding messages for every season of life.Perfect for yourself or someone navigating change.Grab your copy here → https://amzn.to/3Us9eqgLet us know in the comments what resonated most—we’d love to hear your story.Episode Highlights: The five most common life changes that profoundly impact our mental health and sense of identity How to trust the impermanence of life—and find faith in the unknown Understanding emotions during life’s “in-between” chapters through the lens of the five stages of grief Why it’s essential to feel your difficult emotions rather than avoid them Letting go of self-blame and shame in the face of loss, change, and disappointment The power of taking the first small step toward acceptance Embracing peace by viewing life as a journey—not a destination Remember, no feeling is ever final– this, too, shall pass.We’re so grateful you’re here. As a mother-daughter team, we’re committed to having honest, healing conversations about life’s challenges and the inner work that helps us grow through them.This August, we’re focusing on youth and student mental health—but the truth is, emotional well-being matters at every age. We’re all navigating transitions in one form or another. Whether you’re heading back to school, starting a new job, grieving a loss, or simply adjusting to the change in seasons, you’re not alone.Together, we’re stronger—and we’re here to support you through it all.Join us as we explore how to grow through change, find steadiness in the chaos, and embrace acceptance—one small step at a time.Thank You to Our Sponsor: WayfairWith the school year just around the corner, it’s the perfect time to refresh your home or workspace—and we’re so grateful to Wayfair for helping make that possible.We’ve been redecorating ourselves and have truly loved the ease, inspiration, and wide variety that Wayfair offers. From cozy touches to complete room makeovers, it’s our go-to for affordable, stylish pieces for every space and budget. Plus, their free and easy delivery makes the experience seamless.Ready to refresh your space? Start exploring today at Wayfair.com and find everything you need to create a home that feels just right.Join us next Tuesday for another heartfelt and healing episode of Life Happens with Barb Michelle! 💕 Our Sponsors: * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 12 August 2025

This generation is growing up more stressed, isolated, and overwhelmed than ever before— here’s how parents can help bridge the gap and support youth mental health. ⬇️In this eye-opening episode of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle, we dive into the realities of parenting in today’s world—one shaped by technology, anxiety, and unrealistic expectations. We explore how listening without judgment, leading with vulnerability, and embracing imperfection can transform the parent-child relationship.Barb shares practical insights from her own parenting journey and how she built a strong, emotionally safe bond with Michelle. Michelle reflects on being raised by a parent who prioritized emotional well-being, and together, they unpack lessons learned both as a mother-daughter duo and from years of working with students of all ages.Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, educator, or someone who works with teens, this conversation will move you, challenge you, and leave you with tools to better show up for the young people in your life.✨Pre-order Dear Friend — Michelle’s new book filled with daily inspiration, clarity, and encouragement. A perfect gift for anyone supporting the emotional well-being of the next generation.Grab your copy here: https://amzn.to/3Us9eqgLet us know in the comments what resonated most—we’d love to hear your story.Episode Highlights: How to really listen and be fully present with your child Bridging the generational gap through empathy, not authority The transformative power of apologizing and showing vulnerability as a parent Why how you model behavior matters more than what you say Helping young people navigate pressure, anxiety, and unrealistic expectations Introducing emotional well-being early and what that actually looks like Creating safe spaces for honest, judgment-free conversations Parenting isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being real, open, and willing to grow.We’re so grateful you’re here. As a mother-daughter team, we’re committed to honest conversations about life’s challenges and the healing that starts from within.🗓️ This August, we're focusing on youth and student mental health—supporting young minds through self-awareness, emotional resilience, and life's pressures.Join us as we explore how to raise this next generation with confidence, compassion, and connection.Join us next Tuesday for another heartfelt and healing episode of Life Happens with Barb Michelle! 💕🎙️ Host by: https://www.instagram.com/peaceful_barb/ https://www.instagram.com/michellemaros/ Join our community⬇️YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LifeHappensThePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifehappensthepodcast/Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifehappensthepodcast✨ Pre-order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌 https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg Our Sponsors: * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 5 August 2025

Struggling with negative self-talk and body image issues? You’re not alone. With diet culture, self-loathing, and unrealistic beauty standards woven into our feeds and conversations, we’re challenging the narrative and shifting toward self-acceptance and confidence from the inside out. In this episode, we’re talking about how to quiet the inner critic, heal your relationship with your body, and begin reclaiming the confidence that diet culture, beauty standards, and perfectionism tried to take from you. We’ll explore:✨ Where the inner critic comes from💭 How social media and cultural messages fuel self-doubt🛠️ Practical tools to challenge toxic narratives and build self-compassion💡 Why confidence is a practice, not a personality trait Barb opens up about her healing journey from bulimia to self-love, and Michelle shares her experience navigating critical friendships and body insecurities. Together, we’re unpacking what it means to truly feel at home in your body and at peace with yourself. 💌 Want to quiet the self-criticism and build true confidence? This one’s for you.✨ Pre-order Dear Friend—Michelle’s new book filled with daily inspiration, clarity, and encouragement. Sign up for exclusive updates at https://amzn.to/3Us9eqg 📢 Let us know in the comments what resonated most—we’d love to hear your story. Episode Topics:✨Healing body image by becoming your own best friend✨Valuing your voice over external validation and judgment✨Understanding the power of words—how you speak to yourself and others matters✨Letting go of comparison and unrealistic beauty standards on social media✨Supporting your child’s self-worth and confidence through mindful parenting✨Navigating relationships with critical or unsupportive people✨Practicing gratitude and celebrating your personal growth You are your greatest companion in life—so choose to love, accept, and trust yourself every day. We’re so grateful you’re here. As a mother-daughter duo, we’re passionate about having real, honest conversations around the challenges we all face—and the healing that begins from within. This July, we’re diving deep into confidence, self-worth, self-advocacy, and purpose. In this episode, we unpack the harmful messages and behaviors that chip away at our self-confidence and body image. We’ll explore how to begin healing the way you see yourself—shifting from self-judgment and comparison to inner validation, self-love, and acceptance that comes from within, not the outside world. Join us next Tuesday for another heartfelt and healing episode of Life Happens with Barb Michelle! 💕 Join our community⬇️YouTubeInstagramSubstackTikTokListen to our podcast anywhere→ click here🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday🎧Follow us @MichelleMaros and @Peaceful_Barb and share your experiences with us @LifeHappensthePodcast or at Michellemaros.com/podcast.  Our Sponsors: * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 29 July 2025

What if the messiest parts of your life were actually the key to your confidence and healing?In this light-hearted yet profound episode of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle, we’re joined by best-selling author Jen Pastiloff for a powerful, no-holds-barred conversation on embracing imperfections, healing from within, and living without regret.We share raw, personal stories—of grief, eating disorders, trauma, and the everyday chaos of life—and explore how to stay rooted in self-love and confidence even when everything feels shaky.💌 Struggling to stay consistent with your self-care? Start your day with Dear Friend — Michelle’s new book filled with daily encouragement, inspiration, and clarity. Sign up for exclusive updates at thedearfriendbook.com and explore all the ways to pre-order today.📢 Leave a comment with what resonated most. We’d love to hear your story.Episode Topics: Pushing through fear and self-judgment to live your fullest life Using humor as a healing tool Releasing rigidity on the self-growth journey with daily(ish) practices Following the “school of whatever works” Owning your imperfections and finding freedom in the mess Healing past traumas with grace, compassion, and self-forgiveness No matter what you’ve been through or how broken you feel—you are worthy of a beautiful, joy-filled life. Tune in and begin rewriting your story from the inside out.We’re so grateful you’re here. As a mother-daughter duo, we’re passionate about having real, honest conversations about the challenges we all face—and the healing that’s possible when we begin within.This July, we’re diving deep into confidence, self-worth, self-advocacy, and purpose. In this episode, we explore how to live your most authentic life by embracing imperfection and aligning with your truth.We’ll share how to build confidence from the inside out by quieting your inner bully—with kindness, compassion, and even a little humor. It's time to stop waiting for perfection and start living fully—just as you are. Join us next Tuesday for another heartfelt and healing episode of Life Happens with Barb Michelle! 💕 🎙️ Host by: https://www.instagram.com/peaceful_barb/ https://www.instagram.com/michellemaros/ ⭐ Today’s Special Guest:https://www.instagram.com/jenpastiloff/?hl=enJoin our community⬇️YouTube: www.youtube.com/@LifeHappensThePodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifehappensthepodcast/Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lifehappensthepodcast Listen to our podcast anywhere→ https://michellemaros.com/podcast/ 🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday ✨ Pre-order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌 https://thedearfriendbook.com Our Sponsors: * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 22 July 2025

Learn how you can empower yourself to say no with confidence, stop people-pleasing, and set boundaries to cultivate healthy connections.In this episode of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle, we’re talking about the art of saying no with confidence—why it’s so hard, how people-pleasing steals our joy, and how honoring your needs can lead to deeper, more authentic relationships.With personal stories, vulnerable reflection, and practical advice, this episode will give you the courage to pause, speak your truth, and set boundaries that support your well-being.What you’ll learn: Why saying no matters—and how it builds self-worth How people-pleasing leads to resentment and burnout Learning to prioritize your needs without guilt The fear of being excluded and how to move through it Saying yes out of obligation vs. alignment Tools to pause, reflect, and respond from your authentic self 💌 Struggling to say no and reclaim your confidence? Start your day with “Dear Friend” – Michelle’s new book filled with daily encouragement and clarity. Preorder now at thedearfriendbook.com.If you’ve ever felt pressure to say yes when your heart is screaming no—this episode is for you.Leave a comment with what resonated most. We’d love to hear your story.Episode topics:We’re so grateful you’re here with us. As a mother-daughter duo, we’re passionate about having honest conversations about the struggles we all face—and the healing that’s possible when we start from within.This July, we’re diving deep into confidence, self-worth, self-advocacy, and purpose—beginning with the relationship we have with our bodies. In past episodes, we’ve unpacked how early experiences and cultural messages shape our self-image, why external validation never fills the void, and how to reclaim your worth one kind thought at a time.We're challenging the beliefs that tell us we have to look a certain way to be enough. Because you are enough—just as you are.And in this episode, we're expanding that conversation by exploring the art of saying no with confidence—honoring your needs, setting boundaries, and showing up fully as your authentic self.Join us next Tuesday for another heartfelt and healing episode of Life Happens with Barb Michelle! 💕Join our community⬇️YouTubeInstagramSubstackTikTokListen to our podcast anywhere→ click here🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday🎧Follow us @MichelleMaros and @Peaceful_Barb and share your experiences with us @LifeHappensthePodcast or at Michellemaros.com/podcast. You can also find us on Substack at Love Notes by Michelle Maros and Peaceful Mind Peaceful Life. Our Sponsors: * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 15 July 2025

How you feel about your body can shape your entire life—and in this episode, we’re diving deep into the truth about body image, self-worth, and the journey to self-acceptance. In this deeply personal conversation on Life Happens with Barb and Michelle, we open up about how harmful messages around appearance take root, how they impact our confidence, and what it really takes to unlearn them. From childhood memories and cultural pressure to the struggle of believing compliments and chasing “enoughness,” we explore the path from self-criticism to compassion—one thought at a time. What You’ll Learn: Why self-worth can’t come from outside validation How body image issues start early and get reinforced by society Why “you matter” is more than just a nice phrase Barb’s story of success, bulimia, and finding real healing The difference between body positivity, neutrality, and appreciation Tips to stop body-shaming yourself and start practicing self-kindness This episode is filled with truth, tools, and a reminder that being human means you already matter—just as you are.Episode Topics:We’re so grateful you’re here with us. As a mother-daughter duo, we’re passionate about having honest conversations about the struggles we all face—and the healing that’s possible when we start from within.This July, we’re diving deep into confidence, self-worth, self-advocacy, and purpose—beginning with the relationship we have with our bodies. In this episode, we’re unpacking how early experiences and cultural messages shape our self-image, why external validation never fills the void, and how to reclaim your worth one kind thought at a time.We're challenging the beliefs that tell us we have to look a certain way to be enough. Because you are enough—just as you are. It's time to shift the story, appreciate your body, and start living like you truly matter.Join us next Tuesday for another heartfelt and healing episode of Life Happens with Barb Michelle! 💕Dear Friend: Struggling with your own self-confidence.Start your day with clarity and courage. ✨ Dear Friend—Michelle’s new book—is your daily companion to reclaim confidence, set boundaries, and find peace within. 💌 Pre-order now at thedearfriendbook.comConnect with us⬇️🎙️ Hosted by: @Peaceful_Barb @MichelleMaros YouTubeInstagramSubstackTikTok Our Sponsors: * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 8 July 2025

Discover how to transform trauma into growth and purpose with special guest Briony Douglas—a multi-talented artist and mental health advocate whose journey is both inspiring and deeply human. This week on Life Happens with Barb & Michelle, we’re exploring how creativity, self-worth, and healing intersect. ⬇️ Tune in and don’t miss a captivating episode with our special guest Briony Douglas joining us on a powerful discussion on turning our pain into beauty. Briony, known for her captivating sculptures, installations, and photography, shares how art became a lifeline during her healing journey. Her work challenges perception, sparks meaningful conversations, and connects us back to ourselves.In this raw and powerful episode, we talk about: ✨ Honoring Your Passions and Creativity Healing often begins with giving yourself permission to create. Let joy lead. ✨ Trusting Your Own Timeline Life isn’t linear—and your healing doesn’t have to be either. ✨ Choosing Happiness Over Survival Mode Breaking free from the victim mentality opens the door to growth and peace. ✨ Rising Above Criticism and Pain You are more than your trauma. You are worthy of a life you love. Briony opens up about how she used creativity to process pain and reclaim her identity. Barb shares her own experiences of turning struggle into service, and Michelle reflects on staying rooted in purpose despite criticism and setbacks. Together, they remind us that healing is possible—and that joy is a choice we can keep making.💗 Remember, You are not what happened to you. You are who you decide to become. We’re so grateful you’re here with us! As a mother-daughter duo, we’re passionate about sharing the real-life lessons that have shaped us—so you can feel empowered to build confidence, prioritize self-care, and navigate life’s challenges with emotional strength and resilience.This July, we’re diving deep into the themes of self-advocacy, trust, and purpose—starting with the relationship we have with ourselves. We're challenging harmful beliefs and societal pressures to reclaim our self-worth and embrace who we are from the inside out. Each episode this month is a powerful reminder to trust yourself, stand up for your needs, and honor the body you live in. It's time to love yourself fully—and live like you mean it.Join us next Tuesday for another heartfelt and healing episode of Life Happens with Barb Michelle! 💕Join our community⬇️YouTubeInstagramSubstackTikTok Our Sponsors: * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 1 July 2025

Watch this episode on YouTube→ [CLICK HERE] Discover why putting yourself first isn’t selfish—it’s essential. From divorce to everyday self-care, we’re encouraging you to prioritize your peace, reclaim your freedom, and confidently choose yourself over others’ comfort. ⬇️ ✨ Pre-order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌⟶ https://thedearfriendbook.comYou asked, we answered. In today’s episode, we’re diving into what it really means to prioritize your peace—even when it challenges others’ expectations. For generations, we’ve been told that self-care is selfish or even narcissistic, but we’re unpacking that outdated narrative and redefining what it means to truly care for yourself.Barb shares how she reclaimed her freedom and individuality through divorce, and Michelle opens up about being undermined by people in her inner circle—and how she rose above it with confidence and clarity. Together, this mother-daughter duo explores the power of choosing yourself, embracing growth, and surrounding yourself with friends who lift you up rather than tear you down.Here’s what we’re unpacking:✨ You’re Not Selfish for Prioritizing Your NeedsYou can’t pour from an empty cup. Self-care isn’t indulgence—it’s survival.✨ Finding Freedom and Individuality After DivorceBarb shares her journey of rediscovering herself post-divorce and what freedom truly looks like.✨ Handling People Who Undermine YouMichelle opens up about how she overcame being criticized and dismissed—and how you can rise above it too.Remember: When you care for yourself first, you show up for others in a deeper, more meaningful way. 💕We’re so grateful you’re here with us. 💛 As a mother-daughter duo, we’re passionate about sharing the real-life lessons that have shaped us—so you can feel empowered to build confidence, embrace your individuality, and navigate life’s inevitable challenges with emotional strength and resilience.This month on Life Happens, we’re diving deep into themes of self-advocacy, healing, and reclaiming your power. Each episode is rooted in mindfulness and designed to help you connect with your purpose, trust your inner voice, and prioritize your peace—especially during moments of grief, loss, and transition.✨ Expect powerful practices, honest conversations, and heartfelt reminders to support your growth and self-care journey.Join us next Tuesday for another healing, empowering episode of Life Happens with Barb & Michelle. 💕Join our community⬇️YouTubeInstagramSubstackTikTok Our Sponsors: * Check out Time4Learning: https://www.time4learning.com Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Transcribed - Published: 24 June 2025