For the past 6+ years, I've been helping people land their dream jobs without applying online. I’ve made a name for myself as a “LinkedIn Top 10 Voice” to follow in job search and career, and I’m recognized for having one of the top career-coaching programs. 

But, as you’ll learn in this episode, we are whole beings, and I’ve been feeling out of alignment with myself to not support your beautiful soul with everything that relates to inside and outside of your career.

Together, we’ll go on a journey of how you can come back to your whole self – your true authentic self, the self that loves and approves of yourself – no matter what you have on the exterior or what others say or think.

And to begin, I have a practical exercise called the Wheel of Life to get you started on your journey.

Listen in as we uncover the following topics:

00:00 Welcome to the Journey: Discovering Your Why
00:41 Introducing Cultivate Your Joyful Life
01:33 The Personal Story Behind the Podcast
02:11 Transitioning from Career Coach to Life Coach
03:16 The Essence of Cultivating a Joyful Life
08:13 Unveiling the Wheel of Life: A Guide to Fulfillment
09:46 Your First Actionable Exercise: The Wheel of Life
11:47 Gratitude and Next Steps

Thanks for joining me on this first episode of the Cultivate Your Joyful Life podcast. 

I’m here to encourage you to be the most bold and courageous version of YOU – so that you can create a life you love, on your own terms!

Leave a comment on this episode’s blog post

Need help landing a dream job? Check out my How to Land a Dream Job masterclass

In this episode, I'm going to teach you some easy tips and share ways that I have added more fun into my own life, because we all deserve to INTENTIONALLY experience fun and be present in the moment!

Maybe you feel like your habits are hardwired for survival. Or perhaps your family was working all the time, so you never saw what it was like to see an adult model how to have fun.

I don't remember seeing my parents having fun. I remember how hard they worked. It wasn’t until recently, as an adult, that I realized how it affected me – whether that’s how I approached school, life, or work. 

I now know that it's critical to allow myself to have fun – as an adult. You DESERVE to have moments where you have fun for the sake of pure enjoyment, and I’m here to encourage you! 

You’ll learn about reflecting on the things, the moments, and the experiences that bring you pure bliss and joy. You can try out a new hobby or interest. You can reframe what you define as “work.”  

Plus, if you're already mastering having fun as an adult, I'm going to challenge you to take it to the next level.

Listen in as we uncover the following topics:

00:00 The Serious Side of Life: Recognizing the Need for Fun
02:38 Rediscovering Joy: Embracing Hobbies and Interests
07:57 Finding Fun in the Present: Practical Tips for Enjoyment
09:30 Embracing New Hobbies and the Importance of Play
12:23 Savoring Fun and Cultivating Gratitude
13:41 Overcoming Struggles and Finding Simple Joys
15:22 Wrapping Up: Encouragement and Next Steps

When you do something that allows you to nourish your soul, reduce your stress, get back into creativity, and inspires you…adding in more fun becomes an intentional step in allowing yourself to enjoy life more. 

Thanks for joining me on this first episode of the Cultivate Your Joyful Life podcast. 

I’m here to encourage you to be the most bold and courageous version of YOU – so that you can create a life you love, on your own terms!

Leave a comment on this episode’s blog post

Need help landing a dream job? Check out my How to Land a Dream Job masterclass

If you’ve been tying your life purpose to career – you’re missing out on more than half the equation! 

Listen on as we explore the pitfalls of tying your joy and purpose to external factors like a career. We also discuss the difference between purpose and passion, what purpose is and isn’t, and how to create a purposeful life today.

Finding your purpose starts with realizing what you have been conditioned to believe about yourself. It’s only when we can start deprogramming those thoughts that you can emerge as your true, authentic best selves.

And really, life purpose may not be so much about accomplishing goals X, Y, and Z, as it is just simply being excited about living the human experience. 

So please join us in this episode as we cover the following topics:

00:00 Welcome to the Podcast: Unveiling Life’s Purpose with Rachel East
01:24 Introducing Rachel East: The Journey to Clarity on Fire
06:09 The Essence of Passion and Purpose: A Deep Dive
14:16 Unraveling the True Meaning of Purpose
22:03 Exploring Passion vs. Purpose: Insights and Reflections
27:47 Finding Your Purpose: Strategies and Controversies
30:59 Exploring the New Age of Success Beyond Traditional Careers
31:45 Redefining Success: From Immigrant Dreams to Modern Realities
32:24 The Evolving Nature of Purpose and How to Stay Aligned
34:32 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Embracing Change
36:56 Spiritual Perspectives on Purpose and Human Experience
38:52 Navigating the Tension Between Masculine and Feminine Energies in Society
42:11 Finding Balance: The Interplay of Doing and Being in Pursuit of Purpose
43:29 Personal Stories of Purpose, Identity, and Legacy
51:59 Embracing Life’s Challenges with Acceptance and Joy
56:38 Final Thoughts and Resources for Further Exploration

Rachel East is one half of the duo over at Clarity on Fire, a life and career coaching site (and podcast!) that serves up inspiration and down-to-earth wisdom to people who know what they don’t want in work and in life, but have no idea what they’d rather be doing. 

Rachel and her bff Kristen are the creators of The Passion Profile Quiz, a free online resource which has helped more than 500,000 people pinpoint the intersection between their passion and career. Their work has been featured online at major outlets like Time, Fast Company, Business Insider, and Forbes."

Take the Passion Profile Quiz at clarityonfire.com/quiz and listen to Clarity on Fire wherever you get your podcasts!

Leave a comment on this blog post

I believe in achieving financial freedom and independence so you can live your fullest life in accordance with your values. Money is an amplifier that allows you to do more of what you love and be more of who you are.

So if you have any money mindset challenges, I hope you enjoy this episode and know that it’s never too late to start fostering a healthy relationship with money and attracting more of it.

Listen in as I talk about:

00:00 Trigger Warning: Let's Talk Money

02:38 Gratitude for Community Support

04:08 Celebrating Life and Family in Sedona

05:02 Unpacking the Love for Money

05:54 Empowering Money Stories and Career Shifts

12:09 Changing Your Money Mindset

19:11 Exploring Financial Independence and the FIRE Movement

22:52 Wrapping Up: The Power of Money Mindset

24:43 Next Episode Teaser: Healthier Relationships

** This is an affiliate link and I receive a tiny commission. Thank you for supporting this podcast!
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You’re going to learn her remarkable lessons and wins around:

Her process of getting career clarity and finding a job and claiming it, even when she got rejected online

Turning a no into a not yet and eventually a yes into the hidden job market (snagging a job before it gets posted online)

How she got through the toughest times and found resourcefulness and inner growth

The power of a loose connection and a follow up

How she went from a passive candidate to putting in the new way of job searching steps that led her into a new role, a new industry, and a higher salary than she imagined

Suraiyah’s journey is more than just a job search success story; it's a testimonial of personal growth, self-love, and the discovery that joy can be cultivated by leaning into one's self-trust. By adopting a mindset of resilience, staying true to her authentic self, and employing innovative job search strategies, she navigated her way to a fulfilling career that aligns with her values and skills.

00:00 The Journey of Overcoming Job Rejection

01:10 Welcome to Cultivate Your Joyful Life

02:00 Introducing Today's Inspiring Guest

07:00 Soraya's Story: From Rock Bottom to Triumph

16:22 Embracing Self-Discovery and Inner Growth

36:56 Navigating the Job Search with New Insights

46:47 Crafting a Unique Resume: A Personal Journey

48:21 Leveraging Chat GPT for Smarter Job Applications

51:43 Embracing Transferable Skills and Authenticity

53:18 The Power of Persistence in Job Searching

58:50 Navigating Rejection and Staying Resilient

01:14:21 Achieving Career Clarity and Setting New Goals

MORE ABOUT SURAIYAH ORTIZ

Suraiyah Ortiz, a dynamic 'Edu-tainer,' is on a mission to revolutionize discussions on healthy sexual relationships amongst adults, particularly within BIPOC communities. With her unique blend of stand-up comedy and interactive workshops, she aims to create safe spaces for candid dialogues, while infusing interactions with lightheartedness and humor. Suraiyah wants to bring the 'sexy' back into sex education while championing inclusivity and empowerment.

LISTEN TO THESE EPISODES NEXT

Ep. 002: How to Have Fun as an Adult

Ep. 003: How to Find Your Life Purpose w/ Rachel East

Ep. 004: Why I Love Money

LINKS

Suraiyah’s LinkedIn

RSVP to the FREE Land Your Dream job Masterclass

RSVP to the Career Clarity Workshop

If you’re looking for inspiration to take the first action, this message is for you. Clarity and fulfillment come to those who are brave enough to seek it out. It’s never too late to make a career pivot and if you think it is, you gotta listen now:

00:00 Welcome to Cultivate Your Joyful Life

00:49 Life Update: The House Hunting Journey

02:41 Finding the Perfect Home: A Story of Patience and Clarity

09:52 The Career Clarity Workshop: Finding Your Path

11:39 Permission to Pivot: Embracing Change for a Joyful Life

23:08 Discovering Authenticity and Purpose in Your Career

23:59 The Power of Desire Over Duty in Career Choices

24:56 Navigating Career Pivots with Subtle Changes

25:56 Age Is Just a Number: Overcoming Age Barriers in Career Pivots

28:42 Breaking Industry Barriers: From Financial to Entertainment

32:04 Embracing a Growth Mindset for Career Success

37:22 Building Confidence Through Action and Feedback

39:39 Sharing Your Vision with the Right People

41:19 Closing Thoughts and Resources for Career Pivots

From practical advice broken down into a step-by-step strategy, we hope you feel empowered to make an energetic shift and commitment to what you want to do.

Feeling stuck often is seen when you’ve lost your mojo which is just when you can no longer see the possibilities that reside within you and/or around you. The best part? It’s curable!

Megan is a licensed therapist (LCMHC) based in Asheville, NC, with a passion for guiding individuals to clarity, particularly in their careers. With a focus on trauma processing, anxiety reduction, and confidence-building, she helps clients improve their sense of self and relationships. Megan's expertise in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and EMDR supports mindfulness, emotional regulation, and effective trauma processing. Prior to founding Envision Balance Counseling & Consulting, Megan gained experience in both a Dialectical Behavioral Therapy Center and in Corporate Human Resources. 

00:00 Unlocking the Path to Emotional Freedom

00:25 Welcome to Cultivate Your Joyful Life

01:13 Navigating Career Dissatisfaction: Insights and Solutions

02:41 Introducing the Happily Hired Formula: Transform Your Career

04:57 Exploring Career Clarity and Making Meaningful Changes
06:36 Deep Dive with Megan Myers: Understanding and Overcoming Stuckness
13:13 Embracing Emotional Processing: The First Step to Unstuckness
23:15 Addressing Fear and Limiting Beliefs in Career Transitions
27:08 The Power of Parts Work in Personal Growth
29:51 Exploring Emotional Parts and Moving Forward
31:07 Navigating Job Dissatisfaction and Seeking Change
34:23 Personal Anecdote: House Hunting and Acceptance
37:14 Embracing Acceptance and Making Changes
42:33 The Myth of Perfection in Jobs and Life
44:59 Acceptance and Commitment: Living in Alignment with Values
46:41 The Power of Presentness and Body Awareness
56:00 Confronting Job Search Challenges with Support
01:01:39 Final Thoughts and Workshop Announcement

LISTEN TO THESE EPISODES NEXT
Ep. 003: How to Find Your Life Purpose w/ Rachel East
Ep. 006: Believing in Yourself When Life Gets Tough w/ Suraiyah Ortiz
Ep. 007: How to give yourself permission to pivot

LINKS
Megan Meyer’s Website:  https://www.envisionbalancecounseling.com/
RSVP to the FREE Land Your Dream job Masterclass
RSVP to the Career Clarity Workshop

00:00 Welcome to Cultivate Your Joyful Life

00:52 Personal Reflections and the Power of Sharing

02:47 The Struggle of Being a Business Owner and Mother

10:44 Redefining Success Beyond Hustle Culture

10:55 Invitation to a Dream Job Masterclass

12:36 Embracing a New Season of Life and Work

15:41 Understanding and Overcoming Burnout

23:35 Announcing a New Coaching Program

27:53 Navigating Career Changes and Job Searches

29:09 Exciting Upcoming Events and Closing Thoughts

31:16 Connect and Continue the Journey

LISTEN TO THESE EPISODES NEXT
Ep. 006: Believing in Yourself When Life Gets Tough w/ Suraiyah Ortiz
Ep. 007: How to give yourself permission to pivot
Ep. 008: I Hate my Job but I Can’t Quit w/ Megan Myers

LINKS
Can you do me a favor? Take this 5 minute survey if you feel burned out so I can create a new program and helpful content for you!

RSVP to the FREE 3 Day How to Land Your Dream Job bootcamp

Michael Quan is a personal finance educator, financial/business coach, and speaker based in San Diego, California. He's on a mission to help others achieve financial freedom, while ensuring they find joy in the journey.

Michael achieved F.I.R.E. (Financial Independence, Retirement Early) at the age of 36 through a combination of saving & investing, entrepreneurship, and real estate investing. He has been featured in media outlets such as Good Morning America, Business Insider, MarketWatch, Yahoo Finance, MSN, and The Huffington Post.

Michael has spent a decade working with teens through the Tony Robbins Foundation and is the co-founder of Y.E.S. (Youth Entrepreneur Summit).

When not helping others, he enjoys spending quality time with his wife and two children. He is an avid fisherman, tennis player, world traveler, foodie, and tech junkie.

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01:06 Meet Michael Quan: Financial Independence Expert
08:47 Understanding Financial Independence Retire Early (FIRE)
10:32 Michael's Journey to FIRE and Personal Development
15:05 Practical Steps to Achieve FIRE
24:46 The Power of Mindset in Financial Success
30:08 Michael's Advice for Financial Independence
34:05 Upcoming Bootcamp Announcement
35:29 Join the Happily Hired Formula
35:51 Investing in the Long Run
36:21 Multiple Ways to Reach FIRE
37:29 Building Your Own Business
39:54 Understanding the 4% Rule
44:52 Different Types of FIRE
48:04 Balancing Financial Responsibility and Abundance
01:03:13 Leveraging Technology for Financial Growth
01:07:44 Final Thoughts and Resources

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**thank you for supporting our podcast by purchasing through these affiliate links
F.I.R.E. Planner by Michael Quan *
Die with Zero by Bill Perkins*
A Simple Path to Weatlh by JL Collins*

**Episode Highlights:**

1. **Introduction**: Emily welcomes listeners and sets a positive tone for the episode, encouraging them to embrace their inner joy.

2. **Inspiration**: The episode is inspired by a LinkedIn newsfeed post that highlights the contrasting emotions of job loss and job gain.

3. **Concepts Explained**: Emily explains the zero sum game—a belief that one's gain is another's loss—and contrasts it with the infinite sum game mindset where everyone can benefit.

4. **Real-Life Examples**: Stories and analogies including personal experiences, sports, and even trips to Blockbuster, illustrate these mindsets.

5. **Shifting Mindsets**: Practical advice on how to shift from a scarcity mindset to an abundance mindset. Emily emphasizes gratitude, self-awareness, and seeking evidence of abundance as key steps.

6. **Job Search Tips**: Emily shares information about her free, live three-day bootcamp designed to help you land your dream job with intention, flow, and ease.

LISTEN TO THESE EPISODES NEXT
Ep. 006: Believing in Yourself When Life Gets Tough w/ Suraiyah Ortiz
Ep. 007: How to give yourself permission to pivot
Ep. 008: I Hate my Job but I Can’t Quit w/ Megan Myers

LINKS
Can you do me a favor? Take the survey if you feel burned out so I can create a new program and helpful content for you: https://emilyliou.typeform.com/to/wgYVPIM4

RSVP to the FREE 3 Day How to Land Your Dream Job bootcamp

I want to make an important note for our listeners, we don’t actually start the enneagram part of the interview until the 36 minute mark.

I was so fascinated by Nhien’s massive career pivot from a Stanford law graduate and San Francisco big law attorney to giving it all up to pursue ministry in Kansas, I had to talk to her about her career transition. So if you’re a career transitioner or just want to hear golden nuggets of advice around intuition, trusting, job outlook, and disappointing family members, you’ll gain a ton of value from this portion of the interview.

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00:00 Introduction to the Journey of Self-Discovery
01:33 Introducing the Enneagram Expert: Nhien Vuong
01:52 Understanding Assessment Tools
03:44 Career Transitions and Personal Fulfillment
05:25 Free Bootcamp Announcement
06:08 Guest Bio: Nhien Vuong
07:19 Nhien Vuong's Career Evolution
08:37 The Call to Ministry
16:30 Family Reactions and Personal Growth
26:31 Founding Evolving Enneagram
35:28 Explaining the Enneagram and 9 Types
45:30 Understanding the Enneagram: A Path to Self-Discovery
46:17 The Art of Enneagram Typing
49:14 Core Desires and Fears: The Heart of the Enneagram
56:13 Applying the Enneagram in Life and Relationships
01:01:54 Nature vs. Nurture: The Origins of Your Enneagram Type
01:06:31 The Journey of Self-Realization and Growth
01:11:23 The Enneagram in Relationships: Complementary Types
01:17:12 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Projects

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Nhien Vuong, J.D., M.Div., is a contemplative Enneagram thought leader, international speaker, spiritual mentor, and conscious community builder. A former Stanford Lawyer, Nhien left her San Francisco law career to pursue a calling to support the evolution of consciousness. An ordained Unity minister and Founder of Evolving Enneagram, Nhien offers a compassionate path of transformation without dogma—one that honors and is rooted in each person’s unique background, personality, and beliefs.

Nhien is a certified Enneagram professional, a Somatic Enneagram™ Practitioner, and as of May of this year, one of only 25 International Enneagram Association (IEA) Accredited Professionals with Distinction in the world! She has a book coming out in April of 2025, Enneagram of Soul (publisher: Hampton Roads)!

In this episode of 'Cultivate Your Joyful Life,' certified life coach Emily Liou dives into practical advice for coping with job loss and managing anxiety if you’re worried about an upcoming layoff or firing. Listen on for practical tips and share this with a friend who has lost their job as it is undoubtedly one of the most stressful and traumatic experiences one faces in adulthood.

The episode begins with an introduction to the impact of market fluctuations and job loss on our lives, stressing the significance of emotional regulation and maintaining core values. Emily shares personal updates about her coaching experiences and emphasizes the importance of mindfulness, structured routines, and holistic strategies for finding a dream job.

Additionally, she reminds listeners to see change as an opportunity for growth and to trust in the unfolding path, ensuring that they remain resilient in the face of challenges. Tune in to get inspired and learn actionable steps towards evolving through transitions and cultivating a joyful life.

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TIME STAMPS:

00:00 Welcome to Cultivate Your Joyful Life
00:51 Navigating Job Loss in Today's Market
02:12 Life Update: Coaching and Personal Growth
06:58 Mindfulness and Overcoming Anxiety
17:47 Coping with Job Loss and Embracing Change
20:12 Emotional Release and Regulation
21:49 Identity Beyond Your Job
23:53 Aligning with Your Values
26:18 Maintaining a Daily Routine
29:41 Learning from Hardships
32:19 Trusting the Process
35:29 Happily Hired Formula Program
38:50 Final Thoughts and Farewell

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Trained by Richard Bolles, author of What Color Is Your Parachute?, with a Masters in Vocational/Career Counseling, Shell has more than 35 years of experience and education in the field of career counseling and coaching.

Shell also brings coaching, teaching, training and nurturing gifts to ADHD adults that focuses on  illuminating, creating and transforming lack of clarity to a well-defined direction and sustainable work life.

Shell recently launched the quintessential course book (A COURSE FOR ADHD ADULTS AND TEENS: UNLOCK YOUR CAREER PATH) that breaks down and simplifies the career decision-making process for the ADHD community. Some have described her book as the most ADHD-friendly book on the market.

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In this episode of 'Cultivate Your Joyful Life,' certified life coach Emily Liou shares practical tips and inspiration on how to pursue your biggest dreams, despite fears and uncertainties.

Emily discusses the importance of creating vision boards, writing down goals, and stepping out of comfort zones to achieve the life you desire. She emphasizes examining and neutralizing fears, considering worst-case scenarios, and finding supportive friends who dream big.

Emily underscores that dreams and goals come with purpose and are achievable, encouraging listeners to take the first small steps towards their aspirations. Emily also shares her personal journey of overcoming financial fears and how taking risks led her to a more fulfilling life.

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TIME STAMPS:

00:00 Welcome to Cultivate Your Joyful Life

00:48 Celebrating Zoe's Second Birthday

01:35 Dream Big: Overcoming the 'How'

04:30 Practical Steps to Achieve Your Dreams

15:08 Facing Fears and Worst-Case Scenarios

23:54 Taking the First Step Towards Your Dreams

31:38 Building Confidence and Competence

31:53 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview

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Website - www.cultivitae.com
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In this episode of 'Cultivate Your Joyful Life,' Emily Liou hosts money mindset expert Pericles Rellas, who shares valuable insights on resetting one's financial thermostat.

They discuss the importance of having a positive relationship with money, practical tips for financial well-being, and how to attract and maintain wealth. Pericles emphasizes the importance of gratitude, responsible financial management, and the impact of subconscious beliefs on one's financial reality.

Additionally, he offers advice for those dealing with financial setbacks like layoffs and shares transformative client success stories. This episode is packed with actionable tips to help you create a prosperous and joyful life.

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TIME STAMPS:

00:00 Welcome to Cultivate Your Joyful Life

00:45 Introducing Today's Guest: Money Mindset Expert

02:01 Personal Money Mindset Journey

07:38 Understanding the Financial Thermostat

11:51 Shifting Your Money Mindset

26:10 Balancing Financial Goals and Happiness

36:36 Transforming Money Mindset

37:12 Living in the Present

38:40 Handling Financial Setbacks

40:13 Maintaining Financial Flow

46:06 Raising Your Financial Thermostat

48:29 Creating a Financial Plan

54:25 Manifesting Financial Abundance

01:06:13 Daily Practices for Joy and Fulfillment

01:07:24 Conclusion and Resources

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CutiVitae's Website - www.cultivitae.com
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In this episode of 'Cultivate Your Joyful Life,' certified life coach Emily Liou introduces a new FREE Slack community designed to connect growth-minded individuals. Emily discusses the challenges of making friends as adults and provides practical tips on cultivating meaningful friendships. She emphasizes the importance of common interests, consistent communication, and quality over quantity in friendships.

Emily also highlights the significance of vulnerability, reliability, and conflict resolution in deepening relationships. Join the new community to connect with like-minded people and discover more about personal and professional growth.

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TIME STAMPS:

00:00 Welcome to Cultivate Your Joyful Life

00:48 Exciting Community Update - FREE Slack channel

05:38 The Challenge of Making Friends as an Adult

10:37 Qualities of a Good Friendship

13:04 Evaluating and Evolving Friendships

19:30 How to Make Friends as an Adult

21:25 Finding Your Tribe: Meetup Tips

22:18 Volunteering and Networking

24:13 Classes, Workshops, and Consistency

26:52 Social Media Connections

30:43 Nurturing New Friendships

36:58 Conflict and Communication

38:08 Join Our Community

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Visit our website - www.cultivitae.com
Follow me on Instagram
Follow me on LinkedIn

In this episode of 'Cultivate Your Joyful Life,' host Emily Liou engages in an enlightening conversation with relationship and sexuality expert Courtney Boyer. They discuss the common challenges women face in prioritizing their own pleasure, which often extends beyond sexual intimacy to overall joy and happiness.

The discussion also delves into cultural taboos around sex, self-worth issues stemming from childhood, and how these impact women's ability to receive pleasure. Courtney emphasizes the importance of building a daily pleasure practice and shares actionable tips on how to integrate this into everyday life.

Additionally, they explore various therapeutic modalities to aid in sexual healing and relationship enhancement. The episode aims to help listeners feel less alone in their struggles and encourages them to embrace their worthiness of pleasure and joy.

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TIME STAMPS:

00:00 Introduction to Pleasure and Joy

00:45 Welcome to Cultivate Your Joyful Life

01:30 Introducing Courtney Boyer

03:42 Courtney Boyer's Background and Expertise

05:41 Discussing Women's Sexuality and Desire

07:40 Exploring Self-Worth and Pleasure

12:56 Navigating Relationships and Intimacy

25:32 Gender Roles and Financial Dynamics in Relationships

30:12 Understanding Healthy Masculine and Feminine Energies

31:12 The Impact of Masculine and Feminine Energies on Relationships

33:22 Exploring the Book: Key Takeaways and Structure

36:24 Therapeutic Modalities for Healing

38:56 The Importance of Pleasure and Pleasure Practices

49:26 Building Healthy Intimacy in Relationships

55:02 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

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Courtney Boyer, M.Ed. M.S., is a relationship and sexuality expert and author of Not Tonight, Honey: Why women actually don't want sex and what we can do about it. She has been featured in publications including Parent’s, The Huffington Post, Cosmopolitan, The Independent, Yahoo!, and The Mirror. Courtney believes we can reclaim our power through our sexuality and she helps her clients solve their relationship and sex problems. For 2024, Courtney is focused on offering small group and 1:1 concierge sexual wellness retreats around the world. 

As her work in this field develops, Courtney is drawn to the emerging fields of epigenetics, neuropsychology and energy work. She is trained in evidence-based methods like NLP, EMDR, IFS, and trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. 

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

CultiVitae’s Website: www.cultivitae.com

Website: https://www.courtneyboyercoaching.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/courtneyboyercoaching

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/courtneyboyercoaching

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/courtneyboyercoaching/

Book: https://a.co/d/9SXMaRN

RELATED EPISODES:

Ep. 002: How to Have Fun as an Adult

I just bought my dream home and spent the past 6 weeks renovating – and ooo boy were there a lot of life lessons that came out from expectations, people pleasing, embracing imperfections, speaking up, and detachment – listen into this personal episode as I promise one of these life lessons is something that will benefit you or feel applicable! 😀

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TIME STAMPS:

00:00 Welcome to Cultivate Your Joyful Life|

00:52 Personal and Business Updates

01:41 Home Renovation Journey Begins

03:44 Designing the Perfect Home

07:07 Lessons from Renovation

14:25 Embracing Imperfections with Wabi-Sabi

26:20 Empowerment Through DIY Skills

30:32 Choosing Between Marco and Nick

30:54 Disappointment with Taj Mahal Slabs

33:33 A Better Option at Arizona Tile

36:59 The Importance of Communication

40:42 Resetting Expectations and Perspective

46:40 The Value of Facebook Marketplace

48:39 Finding Mentors and Recommendations

49:45 Managing Stress During Renovations

52:07 Embracing Life's Disruptions

53:41 Exciting Future Plans

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TIME STAMPS:

00:00 Welcome to Cultivate Your Joyful Life

00:48 Introduction to the Episode and Guest

02:37 Liz Fisher's Journey with EFT

03:51 Understanding EFT and Its Benefits

06:09 Liz's Personal Struggles and Discoveries

14:17 The Power of Specific Tapping

21:14 Misconceptions and Everyday Uses of EFT

23:54 Guided Tapping Session for Financial Stress

29:32 Understanding Frustration and Emotional Release

29:59 Gauging Emotional Levels and Inflation Frustration

32:54 Riding the Emotional Wave with Tapping

34:39 Discreet Tapping Techniques for Anxiety

36:17 Exploring Different Tapping Points and Methods

39:41 The Importance of Verbalizing Emotions

43:02 Investigative Coaching and Tapping

46:58 Starting Your EFT Journey

50:27 The Balance of Positive and Negative Tapping

54:24 Cultivating Joy Through Self-Care

56:03 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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Liz Fisher is an EFT International Accredited Certified EFT Practitioner and Energy Makeover EFT Coach. She’s a former hair-puller who also struggled from Emetophobia, severe anxiety, and panic attacks for the better part of 36 years. 

Feeling alone, unheard and out of options, she discovered EFT, which stands for Emotional Freedom Techniques, otherwise known as Tapping, while searching for cures and taught herself how to use it by watching YouTube videos. She completed EFT level 1 and 2 courses and is now on a mission to share her journey and show you that healing is possible in a simple and holistic way. 

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Website: https://tapintohealth.net/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tapintohealthllc?mibextid=LQQJ4d

Instagram: https://instagram.com/http://tapintohealth_eft

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-fisher-8b46657?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tapintohealthllc

LISTEN TO THESE EPISODES NEXT
Ep. 013: How to overcome unemployment stress or fear of job loss

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TIME STAMPS:

00:00 Welcome to Cultivate Your Joyful Life
00:45 A New Beginning: Moving into My Dream Home
01:36 The Power of Vision and Goals
06:14 Exploring Angel Numbers
06:45 Community Updates and Free Coaching
09:03 Understanding and Recognizing Angel Numbers
18:17 Common Angel Numbers and Their Meanings
26:25 Embracing Faith and Letting Go of Control
31:32 Conclusion and Community Engagement

********

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

Join the FREE Slack community for Cultivate Your Joyful Life
Apply for FREE 1:1 Life Coaching Session!
Visit the CultiVitae website

YOU'LL ALSO ENJOY LISTENING TO THESE EPISODES:

Ep. 003: How to Find Your Life Purpose w/ Rachel East
Ep. 006: Believing in Yourself When Life Gets Tough w/ Suraiyah Ortiz
Ep. 015: How to Pursue Your BIG Dreams

Leave me a comment on our blog

If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed as a parent or thinking about family planning, this episode is a must tune into!

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TIME STAMPS:

00:00 Welcome to Cultivate Your Joyful Life

00:46 Introduction to Career Burnout

01:07 Balancing Career and Parenthood

02:01 Meet Lydia Fogo Johnson

03:06 The Struggles of Working Moms

06:11 Understanding Mom Guilt

08:59 Work-Life Balance vs. Harmony

16:54 The Motherhood Penalty

25:00 Navigating Pregnancy in the Workplace

29:18 Postpartum Reflections

30:23 Discovering Matrescence

31:18 Personal Postpartum Challenges

33:56 Support Systems and Medication

39:14 Fair Play and Mental Load

45:25 Balancing Career and Family

47:03 Practical Strategies for Burnout

51:06 Cultivating Joy and Mindfulness

52:47 Conclusion and Resources

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Lydia Fogo Johnson, MS, ACC, empowers moms juggling big careers and little kids to overcome burnout and job dissatisfaction, helping them craft fulfilling, balanced careers that leave room for the life they love. Combining evidence-based methods with a holistic approach, Lydia leverages her three coaching certifications, a master’s degree in Industrial-Organizational Psychology, and years of corporate HR consulting experience. Her work is deeply informed by her passions for mindfulness, creativity, and mental health.

When she's not coaching, Lydia can be found exploring Chattanooga’s vibrant outdoors with her toddler, whipping up vegan-inspired dishes, creating art, or diving into a good book.

You can connect with her on LinkedIn or her website, where you can also grab her free guidebook on Work/Life boundaries.

Website: https://thriveculturecoaching.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lydiafjohnson/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thriveculture.coach/ 

Substack: https://thriveculturecoach.substack.com/ 

In episode 23 of 'Cultivate Your Joyful Life', certified life coach Emily Liou discusses the concept of people pleasing and its impact on our mental and emotional well-being. She explains how people pleasing can lead to burnout, resentment, and unhealthy relationships. Emily shares a personal story about offering free job search advice, only to receive harsh criticism in return, highlighting the need for setting clear boundaries and prioritizing one’s own needs.

The episode also provides practical tips for recognizing and overcoming people pleasing behaviors, emphasizing the importance of self-worth and authentic living. Emily invites listeners to join her email list and attend her upcoming webinar for further insights.

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TIME STAMPS:

00:00 Welcome to Cultivate Your Joyful Life

00:50 Introduction to People Pleasing

02:08 The Hidden Costs of People Pleasing

05:14 A Personal Story of People Pleasing

17:25 Recognizing People Pleasing Behaviors

22:10 Shifting Away from People Pleasing

30:22 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Events

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00:00 Welcome to Cultivate Your Joyful Life
00:44 Introduction to Today's Episode
04:01 Meet Rissa August: Overcoming Perfectionism
07:27 Rissa's Journey: From Diagnosis to Transformation
17:45 Emily and Rissa Discuss Perfectionism
22:40 Rissa's Healing and New Perspective
29:14 Exploring Gestalt Therapy
36:38 Rissa's Message on Joy and Perfectionism
41:50 Rissa's Hair Sparkles and Final Thoughts
45:26 Conclusion and Social Media Links

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Award-winning author, Speaker, Gestalt Practitioner, and Patient Advocate, Risa August has been living with a pituitary tumor and rare disease for over a decade.  Risa shares her insights and perspectives on stage, offering words of inspiration to audiences. Additionally, Risa works one-on-one with clients, guiding them through the many roadblocks of life and toward living more fully inspired.

A girl with sparkles in her hair and once an Ironman athlete, Risa still has a passion for her bike and barbells. With her genuine curiosity and love for trying new (and old) things, you may find Risa taking Bollywood or Hip-Hop dance lessons, trying a silks aerialist or boxing class, going indoor skydiving, and guiding inspirational workshops in creativity. 

Through her personal transformation, Risa has learned and practiced removing limiting beliefs, shifting her perspective, and embracing an expansive life…a life unleashed.  

Visit Risa’s website 

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TIME STAMPS:

00:00 Welcome to Cultivate Your Joyful Life
00:45 Celebrating Episode 25
01:58 Introducing the Nine Patterns
03:28 Free Masterclass and Resources
06:49 Understanding the Nine Patterns
10:13 The Procrastinator
17:43 The Pathfinder
23:16 The People Pleaser
27:05 The Provider
30:11 The Peacekeeper
34:29 The Perfectionist
39:13 The Pretender
44:37 The Protector
52:58 Conclusion and Next Steps

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00:00 Understanding Limiting Beliefs
00:54 Welcome to Cultivate Your Joyful Life
01:35 Introduction to Today's Episode
04:31 Meet Victoria Gallagher
05:29 Victoria's Journey into Hypnotherapy
11:58 Exploring the Subconscious and Superconscious
25:16 The Law of Attraction Explained
31:56 The Power of Low Attachment
33:43 Micromanaging Your Life
35:16 Practicing Gratitude and Presence
45:16 Understanding Intuition and Subconscious
51:07 Exploring Hypnotherapy
01:01:57 Cultivating Joy and Self-Care
01:03:31 Conclusion and Resources

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Victoria M. Gallagher is a worldwide leader in Hypnotherapy, a best-selling author, an international speaker, a life success coach, and a renowned authority on the Law of Attraction.  She has dedicated her life to empowering people all over the world to successfully live a life of liberty aligned with their dreams through her effective meditative recordings and online courses. Through her podcast, The Power of Your Mind, she exudes her passion for inspiring listeners with influential guests in the areas of self-development, mindset, discipline & habits, entrepreneurship, wealth, and relationships.

Victoria’s Website: http://www.VictoriaMGallagher.com

Victoria’s Instagram: http://www.Instagram.com/victoriamgallagher 

Victoria’s BELIEVE App: https://believehypnosis.app/

00:00 Welcome to Cultivate Your Joyful Life

00:46 Introduction to Today's Episode

02:42 Client Session with Erica

11:21 Reflecting on the Coaching Session

12:33 Resources for a Joyful Life

21:59 Understanding Coaching, Consulting, Mentoring, and Therapy

28:10 Conclusion and Next Steps

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Hey friends! In this episode, Certified Life and Career Coach Emily Liou dives into the feeling of being 'stuck' and how the Internal Family Systems (IFS) approach can help us move past that feeling.

By understanding our internal parts - those conflicting thoughts and emotions - Emily uses practical examples to show how IFS, designed by Richard Schwartz, views the mind as a family with each part playing a role. She discusses overcoming internal battles, healing old wounds, and connecting with our protective parts to achieve big dreams.

Emily introduces her 'Inner Magic Program,' a journey of self-awareness, emotional release, and aligned action, aiming to help you heal, regulate your nervous system, and step into your authentic self with confidence. Tune in to redefine your beliefs, release fears, and unlock your true potential.

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TIME STAMPS:

00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview

00:30 Personal Update and Acknowledgment

03:01 Understanding Stuckness and Internal Family Systems

05:30 Exploring Internal Family Systems (IFS)

08:42 Practical Example of Stuckness

10:42 Understanding Firefighter Parts

11:14 The Role of Exiles

11:43 IFS: A Powerful Solution

12:35 Mapping Out Our Parts

13:11 Client's Journey to Unstuck

15:29 Invitation to Inner Magic Program

17:43 Program Details and Benefits

21:17 Final Thoughts and Enrollment Information

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Enroll in Inner Magic by November 1: www.cutlivitae.com/inner-magic

Join the Slack Community: https://join.slack.com/t/cultivateyourlife/shared_invite/zt-2mgo488tj-Fr8OnXjYy~mszdZzrwUZWA

Welcome to Cultivate Your Joyful Life! I'm Emily Liou, your certified life and career coach, and I understand how juggling priorities can feel overwhelming. Let's tackle 2025 together with practical tips and positive vibes. In this New Year's episode, I'll answer the top five job search questions and provide insights into overcoming challenges in the job market.

We'll debunk myths about industry experience, boost your confidence in job searching, and dive into building security from within. Plus, I'll share details about our upcoming live bootcamp starting January 20th. Join me on this exciting journey to a joyful career shift!

04:59 I have been thinking of leaving my job on and off for years but the market and job searching seems so daunting and bleak. Is it safer to stay where I am?

11:13 I want to move industries but don’t have any industry experience, how can I get hired?

17:11 I am introverted and haven’t done a great job staying in touch - I don’t know anyone in my dream company anyway. What can I do?

22:00 Do cover letters and applying online work in 2025?

25:57 What’s the best way to land a job in 2025?

To join our FREE 4 day live Dream Job BootCamp starting Jan 20, sign up here:

To join our HHF waitlist when doors open January 27, you can join here:

You'll love these raw, honest coaching sessions because I know you'll be able to relate!

If you want job search support, be sure to sign up for the Happily Hired Formula Waitlist today (links below)!

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TIME STAMPS:

00:00 Introduction to Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
00:10 Welcome to Cultivate Your Joyful Life
01:02 The Importance of Community Support
02:10 Special Episode: Live AMA Coaching Session
05:32 Coaching Session: Marie - How do I overcome imposter syndrome and ace my next job interview?
12:53 Coaching Session: How do I create a portfolio that will impress employers?
20:08 What can I do if I have an employment gap on your resume?
24:37 Introducing the Happily Hired Formula Program
38:19 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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00:00 Welcome to Cultivate Your Joyful Life
00:52 Personal Update: Juggling Life's Demands
05:38 The Birth of Inner Magic
08:26 Overcoming the Fear of Starting Over

18:06 Celebrating Inner Magic Success Stories
25:02 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

********

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Learn more & sign up for the Inner Magic waitlist
FREE 33-page 9 Patterns Keeping you stuck assessment/PDF Download

RELATED EPISODES:
Ep. 015: How to Pursue Your BIG Dreams

For the past 6+ years, I've been helping people land their dream jobs without applying online. I’ve made a name for myself as a “LinkedIn Top 10 Voice” to follow in job search and career, and I’m recognized for having one of the top career-coaching programs. 

But, as you’ll learn in this episode, we are whole beings, and I’ve been feeling out of alignment with myself to not support your beautiful soul with everything that relates to inside and outside of your career.

Together, we’ll go on a journey of how you can come back to your whole self – your true authentic self, the self that loves and approves of yourself – no matter what you have on the exterior or what others say or think.

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TIME STAMPS:

00:00 Welcome to the Journey: Discovering Your Why

00:41 Introducing Cultivate Your Joyful Life

01:33 The Personal Story Behind the Podcast

02:11 Transitioning from Career Coach to Life Coach

03:16 The Essence of Cultivating a Joyful Life

08:13 Unveiling the Wheel of Life: A Guide to Fulfillment

09:46 Your First Actionable Exercise: The Wheel of Life

11:47 Gratitude and Next Steps

********

LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Learn more & sign up for the Inner Magic waitlist
FREE 33-page 9 Patterns Keeping you stuck assessment/PDF Download

RELATED EPISODES:
Ep. 003: How to Find Your Life Purpose w/ Rachel East
Ep. 015: How to Pursue Your BIG Dreams

00:00 Embracing Change: Permission to Evolve

01:25 Understanding Misalignment Burnout

02:24 Personal Story: Experiencing Misalignment

09:19 Patterns of Misalignment: People Pleasing and Perfectionism

11:59 Shadow Work: Embracing Hidden Parts

14:58 Living from the Heart: Aligning with True Desires

18:53 Taking Action: Steps to Realign Your Life

21:10 Conclusion: Embrace Your True Self

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Learn more & sign up for the Inner Magic waitlist
FREE 33-page 9 Patterns Keeping you stuck assessment/PDF Download

RELATED EPISODES:
Ep. 022. Career Burnout AND Motherhood Burnout?! w/ Lydia Fogo Johnson
Ep. 023. How people pleasing bit me in the ass!

Ep. 028. Why do I feel so stuck?!

Leave me a comment on our blog

00:00 The Job Interview Gone Wrong

01:23 Welcome Back to the Channel

02:30 The Interview Breakdown

05:05 Understanding the Window of Tolerance

08:40 The Candidate's Perspective

09:25 The Interviewer's Perspective

12:23 The Importance of Nervous System Regulation

15:42 Final Thoughts and Viewer Comments

19:23 Conclusion and Next Steps

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LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
Learn more & sign up for the Inner Magic waitlist
FREE 33-page 9 Patterns Keeping you stuck assessment/PDF Download

RELATED EPISODES:
Ep. 017. Making deeper friendships as an adult
Ep. 023. How people pleasing bit me in the ass!

If you've been wondering where I've been (spoiler: I haven't abandoned you!), I'm opening up about the real, messy behind-the-scenes of building a business while staying true to your mission. And then, I'm sharing an incredibly timely conversation I had with Irina Posan from the Career Cravings Podcast about something I think you might be experiencing too: that nagging feeling that your "good on paper" job just isn't... right.

You know that whisper inside that keeps saying something needs to change? The one you're trying to ignore because, logically, everything looks fine from the outside? Yeah, we're talking about THAT.

In this episode, Irena and I dive deep into misalignment, burnout, the signs I personally ignored for way too long, and how I finally found my way back into alignment. If you're feeling stuck, unfulfilled, or like you're living someone else's version of success, this conversation is going to hit home.

I'm sharing vulnerably about my own journey—the good, the hard, and the messy middle—because I want you to know you're not alone in this. And more importantly, I want you to know there IS a way forward.

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00:52 - Welcome Back: Why the podcast went quiet (and why I'm back for good!)

01:15 - The honest truth about my start-stop journey with this show

01:36 - What I've been building behind the scenes in Inner Magic

02:09 - The hardest lesson about entrepreneurship: figuring out what actually matters

02:21 - Why I had to pause the podcast (and what changed this week)

03:46 - The interview that reminded me why I love this work

48:14 - My reflections after the interview and what resonated most

48:39 - Your next step: Join my free live masterclass on the 3-shift
framework

49:11 - Why life is too short to dread Mondays (and what to do about it)

********

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

FREE Live Masterclass - Join me for my brand-new 3-shift framework training. After coaching over 500 women, I've distilled the exact three steps you need to take (in a very specific order) to trust yourself again and get clarity on what's next in your career. Register at: cultivateyourcareer.com/clear

Free Strategy Call - I'm opening up my calendar this month for one-on-one strategy calls. No obligation, no pressure—just a chance for me to hear what's going on in your career and give you personalized guidance on your next steps. Apply at: cultivateyourcareer.com/apply

MORE ABOUT IRINA POSAN:

Irina is the host of the Career Cravings Podcast and an incredible HR career strategist. If you're looking to land your dream HR role and need expert guidance with your job search, definitely check out her work in her website.

RELATED EPISODES:
Ep. 008: I Hate my Job but I Can’t Quit w/ Megan Myers
Ep. 028. Why do I feel so stuck?!

Yeah, I know—everything needs a catchy phrase these days, right? But this one actually describes something real that over half of us are dealing with right now. According to a recent CNBC survey, 57% of people are staying in jobs they don't love, not because they're satisfied, but because they're scared. Scared of layoffs, economic uncertainty, or the cooling job market.

If that's you, I want you to know: I get it. I've been there. And in this episode, I'm breaking down exactly what job hugging is, why so many of us are doing it, and most importantly—how to address it and move forward with intention instead of fear.

Whether you're thinking about leaving your job or recommitting to staying, this episode will help you get unstuck. I'm sharing practical strategies for both paths, plus some deeply personal stories from my own career (including the toxic boss who accidentally pushed me to start my own business). This isn't about what you should do—it's about helping you make a grounded decision that actually feels right for YOU.

0:54 – The big question: Are you job hugging?

1:13 – What job hugging actually is (and why it's the opposite of job hopping)

2:13 – The real reasons we cling to jobs: AI fears, inflation, imposter syndrome

4:13 – Pivotal shift: How to address it (this is where we get practical)

4:15 – The "two feet planted" framework: Stop straddling and make a decision

6:58 – For those leaving: Crafting your exit strategy (and why progress = happiness)

10:57 – For those staying: How to make your current job 1% more exciting

14:29 – Personal story: My staffing agency job and why I stayed 3 years

17:29 – When to RUN: Toxic, unethical, and abusive situations

19:23 – Your reminder: Everything you want is on the other side of fear

Job hugging isn't inherently bad—what's causing you stress is the indecision. The constant one-foot-in, one-foot-out seesaw that makes you lose trust in yourself. In this episode, I'm helping you plant both feet somewhere—whether that's committing to stay and thrive, or committing to leave with a clear plan.

Because here's what I know for sure: the relief doesn't come from being at the finish line. It comes from knowing you have a plan and you're making progress.

Ready to stop hugging and start deciding? Let's dive in.

Learn how to work with me.

I recently wrapped up my 13th one-on-one call, and I've been talking to women from different industries, different cities, with totally different surface-level problems. But here's what struck me: underneath it all, they're all saying the same thing. They're playing small. They KNOW they're capable of more, but something keeps holding them back from reaching for it.

Sound familiar?

If you've ever felt stuck between "this is fine" and "I know I'm meant for more," this episode is for you. I'm getting real about the three sneaky excuses that keep us from resurrecting those ideas that keep whispering to us—and more importantly, I'm sharing a practical framework to actually get started.

Whether you're the chief scientist who won't send out her portfolio, the marketing manager stuck on choosing a website name, or the high-achiever who keeps waiting for the "perfect time"—I see you, and I'm here to help you break through.

0:00 Why I'm on a mission to help you stop playing small

2:42 The "Ideas Graveyard" vs. the Ideas Parking Lot—and why it matters

6:48 Why credentials and certifications won't save you (a hard truth about coaching programs)

11:26 The three common excuses holding you back from playing bigger

11:37 Excuse #1: "I don't know what I want" (spoiler: yes you do)

14:13 Excuse #2: "I'm not ready yet" (and why perfect timing is an illusion)

16:57 Excuse #3: The hidden cost of your "safe" job

21:46 A practical framework to get on the committed path (and finally DO the thing)

28:00 How to join me for a strategy call (if you're ready for support)

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This episode is for the smart, ambitious woman who's tired of watching her dreams collect dust. Let's resurrect that one idea that keeps coming back to you—because it's coming back for a reason.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Free Strategy Call - I'm opening up my calendar this month for one-on-one strategy calls. No obligation, no pressure—just a chance for me to hear what's going on in your career and give you personalized guidance on your next steps. Apply at: cultivateyourcareer.com/apply

FREE Live Masterclass - Join me for my brand-new 3-shift framework training. After coaching over 500 women, I've distilled the exact three steps you need to take (in a very specific order) to trust yourself again and get clarity on what's next in your career. Register at: cultivateyourcareer.com/clear

That's exactly what this episode is about, and honestly, it's one I've been wanting to record for a while because I don't think enough people are talking about what's actually going on beneath the surface.

Here's what you'll get out of this one: a real understanding of why motivation and willpower aren't the problem — your nervous system is — and a simple, practical framework you can start using today to get unstuck without the guilt spiral.

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0:00 – Welcome & what this episode is really about
0:54 – Why I don't believe anyone is inherently lazy or unmotivated
2:06 – It all starts with your state of being (this one is *huge*)
3:37 – How we can shift our state in literal nanoseconds
4:16 – What most career coaches aren't talking about — but should be
8:30 – Real client story: the "chronic freezer" who couldn't hit submit
13:47 – Why knowing what to do isn't enough (the gas + brake pedal metaphor)
16:37 – Getting back into your window of tolerance
18:01 – Step 1 of the 3-part exercise: Name what you're actually feeling
19:10 – Step 3: Ask yourself "what would feel like a relief right now?"
23:23 – Resources, Inner Magic, and how to work with me

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Free Masterclass — 3 Steps to Getting Clear on Your Next Career Move: https://cultivitae.com/clear

Learn more about Inner Magic (90-day program): https://cultivitae.com

Follow Emily on social: @cultivitae

I'm Emily Liou, your Certified Life Coach, and in this episode I get real about something so many of us experience but rarely talk about — that nagging feeling of not knowing what you want, even when it comes to the smallest things.

It started with tacos. Seriously. I found myself paralyzed at a Mexican restaurant, second-guessing every single option the server threw at me — and that's when it hit me: if we can't trust ourselves over a taco order, how heavy does that feel when the decision is about your career or your life?

That's exactly what we're unpacking today. If you've been stuck in overthinking, spinning in indecision, or waiting for the "right" answer to appear before you make a move — this episode will help you understand why that's happening and what to do instead.

Spoiler: the answer isn't more certainty. It's curiosity.

0:00 — Welcome to Cultivate Your Joyful Life
0:52 — The taco story that sparked everything (stay with me here)
1:38 — Why indecision is slowly dimming your light
2:28 — The real reason you can't trust your own preferences anymore
3:24 — Why I'm trading certainty for curiosity — and why you should too
4:25 — Clarity doesn't come before the decision — it comes after
7:36 — The reframe that changes everything: stop asking "what should I do" and start asking this instead
8:47 — Free training: 3 Steps to Finally Make Your Next Career Move →
cultivitae.com/clear

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Free Masterclass — 3 Steps to Getting Clear on Your Next Career Move: https://cultivitae.com/clear

Learn more about Inner Magic (90-day program): https://cultivitae.com

Follow Emily on social: @cultivitae

This week, I'm breaking down something I see come up again and again with the women I work with: the difference between normal hard and soul-draining hard. Because here's the thing — not all hard is created equal. And if you can't tell the difference, you'll either stay somewhere you should've left long ago, or you'll blow up something that just needed a little more patience.

I walk you through 11 different areas — energy, Sunday scaries, self-talk, growth, identity, tasks, time, wins, relationships, your body, and the big picture — and give you a real, honest T-chart comparison so you can take an honest look at your own situation.

I also get personal. I share what it was like having a toxic boss who made me question my own work ethic (spoiler: I was putting in 40+ hours a week — it was him, not me), and why so many of the women I talk to end up in tears on our discovery calls — not because something's wrong with them, but because they've been powering through soul-draining hard for so long.

If you've been feeling like you're losing your spark, questioning your worth, or wondering if you're "the problem" — this episode is for you.

**********

0:00 — Welcome to Cultivate Your Joyful Life
1:07 — Introducing today's topic: Normal Hard vs. Soul-Draining Hard
2:21 — Why this matters (especially for high-achieving women)
4:35 — The 11 signs: starting with Energy
6:35 — Sunday Scaries: dread vs. normal nerves
7:56 — Self-Talk: "I'll figure it out" vs. "What's wrong with me?"
10:36 — Growth: progress vs. spinning your wheels
15:37 — Time: losing yourself in work vs. watching the clock crawl
16:22 — Wins: meaningful vs. hollow victories
17:19 — Relationships: healthy conflict vs. walking on eggshells
19:07 — Your Body knows before your brain does
20:49 — The Big Picture: the clearest sign of all
22:51 — What to do if you're ready to make a change

**********

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Free Masterclass — 3 Steps to Getting Clear on Your Next Career Move: https://cultivitae.com/clear

Apply for a Strategy Call — https://cultivitae.com/apply

Learn more about Inner Magic (90-day program): https://cultivitae.com

Follow Emily on social: @cultivitae

This week, I'm diving deep into career identity fusion — what it is, why so many high-achieving women fall into it (hint: it's not your fault), and what it's actually costing you. Because here's what I want you to know: your career is what you do — it is not who you are. And once you really feel that in your body, not just understand it in your head, everything changes.

I walk you through the telltale signs that you've over-identified with your job, break down how this wiring forms in the first place (hello, childhood conditioning and a culture obsessed with "what do you do?"), and share the four real costs of staying fused — from making good career decisions impossible to keeping you performing instead of actually living.

I also get personal about my own journey — including how I used to tie my entire worth to how ambitious, smart, and hardworking I appeared, and how I finally started untangling that.

And then I give you five practical, concrete steps to start separating your career from your identity — without blowing up your life or your career.

If you've been feeling like your worth rises and falls with every performance review, promotion, or project outcome — this episode is for you.

**********

Timestamps:

0:00 — Welcome to Cultivate Your Joyful Life
0:54 — Introducing today's topic: How to separate your career from your identity
2:46 — The telltale signs you're over-identifying with your job
4:45 — What is career identity fusion (and how it's different from just loving your work)
10:11 — What the fusion is actually costing you
13:44 — Your career is what you do — your identity is who you are
17:31 — 5 practical tips to start untangling your worth from your title
17:37 — Tip 1: Notice how you introduce yourself
18:39 — Tip 2: Map your identity outside the workplace
19:31 — Tip 3: Invest in something you can't perform or get praised for
23:17 — Tip 4: Get curious about the story you tell yourself
24:58 — Tip 5: Give yourself permission to grieve
24:57 — The payoff: what life looks like when you untangle career identity
29:47 — Thanks for tuning in + free masterclass reminder.

**********

Free Masterclass — 3 Steps to Getting Clear on Your Next Career Move: https://cultivitae.com/clear

Apply for a Strategy Call — https://cultivitae.com/apply

Learn more about Inner Magic (90-day program): https://cultivitae.com

Follow Emily on social: @cultivitae

**********

YOU MIGHT ALSO LOVE THESE EPISODES:

Ep. 025. The 9 patterns keeping you stuck from your dream life and career
Ep. 028. Why do I feel so stuck?!
Ep. 039. When your job keeps feeling wrong

This is honestly one of the most common questions I get from the women I coach. And it's a hard one, because the answer isn't always black and white.

Sometimes it IS you (and that's okay — owning that is power). Sometimes it IS the job. And sometimes? It's both. Knowing the difference is everything.

In this episode, I'm walking you through what I call the Six Layers of Excavation — a framework I use with my own clients to help you stop second-guessing yourself and finally get clear on where you actually stand.

We go from the inside out, starting with your own patterns and blind spots, all the way to evaluating the environment itself.

I also get into the four non-negotiables — the situations where no amount of mindset work or reframing is going to fix things, and where the only real answer is getting out. Because I never want you to use this framework to gaslight yourself into staying somewhere that's actually harmful.

By the end, you'll have the clarity to make a decision you can feel grounded in — whether that's staying and advocating harder, or finally giving yourself permission to look for the door.

******

0:00 — Welcome to Cultivate Your Joyful Life
0:52 — Free masterclass announcement: How to Figure Out Your Next Career Move
1:44 — Introducing today's question: Is it me or is it the job?
7:15 — Why this question is so hard to answer (and why we need a framework)
7:15 — Starting from the inside out: why internal patterns come first
7:15 — Layer 1: Is this familiar or is this new?
9:19 — Layer 2: What am I bringing into this — consciously or not?
12:16 — The four non-negotiables: when the answer is clear and it's time to go
19:24 — Layer 3: Perspective and meaning (the bricklayer story)
19:24 — Layer 4: Fit and alignment — normal hard vs. soul-crushing hard
21:22 — Layer 5: Is this situational or systemic?
23:44 — The most clarifying question of all
26:03 — Bringing it all together: how to use this framework to make a grounded decision
29:07 — Free masterclass reminder + how to connect

*********

Free Masterclass — 3 Steps to Getting Clear on Your Next Career Move: cultivitae.com/clear

Apply for a Strategy Call: cultivitae.com/apply

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If you've ever second-guessed a decision the moment someone raised an eyebrow. If you've ever needed five people's opinions before you could feel okay about a choice you already made. If you've ever wondered why, despite being a smart, capable adult, you just can't seem to trust yourself — this episode is going to feel like a warm hug and a lightbulb moment at the same time.

I'm sharing what I realized about my own self-trust patterns on this trip, why so many of us struggle with this (spoiler: it goes back to childhood), and the actual, practical ways you can start rebuilding that trust — not through some dramatic transformation, but through the tiniest everyday decisions.

There's also a really important reframe in here that I don't want you to miss: self-trust doesn't mean nobody ever disagrees with you. It means their disagreement no longer destabilizes you. That distinction changed everything for me, and I think it will for you too.

Whether you're someone who overthinks every decision, constantly seeks reassurance, or just feels weirdly disconnected from knowing what you actually want — this one's for you.

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0:00 — Welcome to Cultivate Your Joyful Life

1:21 — The teaser: what happens when someone asks "what do you want?" and you genuinely don't know

1:22 — Back from a Princess cruise — and why traveling with family hits different when you've done inner work

3:08 — Introducing today's topic: Why You Don't Trust Yourself

4:17 — The Ram Dass quote that perfectly summed up the trip

4:28 — How our childhood shapes our ability to trust ourselves as adults

4:27 — Erik Erikson's 8 Stages of Development: the "autonomy vs. shame and doubt" stage explained

7:28 — What it looks like when your choices are constantly corrected, criticized, or overridden (very personal examples here)

7:42 — What happens when you grow up never being asked what you want — the story about my cousin Jacob

11:00 — Self-trust can be rebuilt — here's how I started

11:27 — Why I subconsciously moved to California right after college (I didn't even realize this until now)

13:42 — The home purchase that changed things: buying a house without asking anyone's opinion first

13:42 — Self-trust doesn't mean no one disagrees with you — it means the disagreement no longer destabilizes you

16:49 — Reframing past "bad" decisions: they're not proof you can't be trusted, they're how you learned

16:49 — Every decision is either a lesson or a celebration

16:49 — Rebuilding self-trust starts small — ordering what you want, choosing the restaurant, buying clothes without polling your group chat

17:52 — You are allowed to build a life based on your own values, preferences, and truth

19:57 — Re-parenting yourself and giving your inner child the encouragement she never got

19:57 — Why having my daughter Zoe has been one of the most healing things for my own self-trust journey

21:37 — Wrapping up + final encouragement: start small, drop the good/bad labels, and trust the decision you make with the information you have right now

22:23 — Thanks for tuning in + how to connect and follow along

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Apply for a Strategy Call: cultivitae.com/apply

Learn more about Inner Magic (6-month program): cultivitae.com

Follow Emily on social: @cultivitae