In this episode: We dive into the transformative power of holistic health and wellness with a focus on midlife and beyond. Annika Ek, a seasoned Evolutionary Nutritionist, shares her personal journey from struggling with digestive issues to embracing a natural approach to healing. She introduces us to her unique Evolutionary Nutrition™ framework, a powerful 3-part approach to sustainable wellness. We explore the key elements of self-compassion, understanding one’s genetic and metabolic needs, and overcoming inner resistance to make lasting changes. Annika also provides insights into the profound hormonal shifts women experience during perimenopause and menopause, describing it as "puberty in reverse." This episode is packed with practical advice and empowering perspectives for anyone navigating the inner transformations.   Meet my guest: Meet Annika Ek, R.H.N., the inspiring mind behind Evolutionary Nutrition™ and the founder of TrulyU Evolutionary Nutrition. Annika’s holistic approach combines modern science with ancient wisdom, helping women reach their health and life goals through deep, lasting transformation. With a dedication to supporting women through midlife’s unique challenges, Annika emphasizes letting go of societal expectations and embracing this next chapter with authenticity and self-compassion. Through her community programs and expert insights, she guides her clients toward health practices that help them rediscover purpose and passion. Join us as Annika shares her wisdom on health, habits, and stepping fully into your next self.   Quote/Piece of Advice: It’s the habits that you create, that lead you to making the choices that will shape your life.   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annikaek/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/evolutionary_nutrition/ Website: https://www.trulyu.com/   To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli   My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com   Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect  

In this episode: We dive into sustainable health habits for 2026 and why resolutions rarely work. I share practical strategies to help you build simple, stackable routines that actually stick, combat decision fatigue, and make healthy eating easier with short, effective ingredient prep. We also discuss the 80/20 rule for balanced eating, enjoyable movement for women over 40, and mindset shifts that help you focus on personal health, self-love, and long-term wellness. This episode is full of actionable tips to help you stop starting over and finally create habits that support an upgraded, maintainable lifestyle.   Meet my guest: Claudia Isla is a Holistic Health Coach empowering busy women over 40 to drop unwanted inches and pounds for good — without restrictive diets or grueling workouts. Compassionate, practical, and inspiring, Claudia brings real-world strategies to help women feel strong, energized, and confident. In this conversation, she shares her wisdom on building sustainable routines, balancing nutrition, and creating a healthy lifestyle that fits real life.   Quote/Piece of Advice: It's so important to take an enjoyable approach to fitness.   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claudia-isla-ba1a90358/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/la_isla_bonita777/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coachclaudiaisla/   Get your free guide now: https://members.claudiaisla.com/break-up-with-junk   To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli   My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com   Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect

In this solo episode, I dive into what it truly means to heal out loud — with honesty, grace, and self-trust. As we move toward 2026, I invite you to rethink traditional ideas about healing, growth, and New Year’s resolutions. Healing isn’t quiet, it isn’t linear, and it definitely isn’t meant to happen in the shadows.   I share insights on why hiding struggles keeps us stuck in shame and isolation, and how being honest — even in small moments — creates validation, connection, and deeper growth. You’ll hear about real-life examples where old patterns surfaced, and how recognizing them isn’t failure but an opportunity to practice new responses and integrate lessons learned.   This episode also explores the importance of setting boundaries as you evolve, giving yourself grace through messy progress, and celebrating tiny victories with big energy. I challenge listeners to identify one truth they’re ready to embrace and one truth they’re ready to release, and to start small, imperfect, and unapologetically real on their healing journey.   Quote/Piece of Advice: You don't have to heal alone, and you are not the only one trying to heal alone.   To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli   My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com   Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect

In this episode: We dive into a powerful conversation about self-advocacy, emotional safety, and confident communication. I explore why so many of us internalize discomfort, blame ourselves for other people’s behavior, and struggle to speak up. From the power of assertive silence with communication saboteurs to scripting and rehearsing difficult conversations, this episode is packed with practical tools to help you reclaim your voice, set boundaries, and protect your peace. If you’ve ever felt labeled as “too much” or questioned whether your words matter, this conversation will remind you that your voice is important—and you’re allowed to use it.   Meet my guest: Joan Stenzler is a licensed psychotherapist, coach, and inspirational speaker with over 30 years of experience supporting women in finding their voice and embracing emotional safety. Warm, insightful, and deeply intuitive, Joan blends her expertise in psychotherapy, mindfulness, and body-centered healing to empower women to communicate confidently and advocate for themselves without guilt. In this episode, she shares actionable strategies for building confidence, navigating difficult conversations, and surrounding yourself with supportive, positive energy. Joan’s guidance is both practical and inspiring, offering listeners a roadmap to authentic self-expression and personal sovereignty.   Quote/Piece of Advice: You're not weak. You're not weak for crying. You're not weak for feeling. You're not weak for being.   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joan.stenzler/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stenzlerjoan/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joan-stenzler-lcsw-sep-8155827/ Website: https://www.youramazingjourney.com   To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli   My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com   Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect

In this episode: Kat and her guest dive into a powerful conversation about what it really means to show up authentically in life and business. Together, they explore the concept of Message Sovereignty—why protecting your human voice matters now more than ever—and how intuition can guide some of the most important decisions you’ll ever make. From trusting the quiet inner nudges to recognizing the transformative 35–40 Revelation that so many leaders experience, this episode offers a blend of depth, clarity, and practical wisdom. Listeners will walk away with a fresh perspective on authenticity, alignment, and the courage it takes to fully claim who you are in your work.   Meet my guest: This week’s guest, M. Shannon Hernandez, is a force in the world of authentic communication. A Messaging & Email Marketing Strategist, she helps purpose-driven founders protect and express their true voice through her Profit-Driven Messaging Ecosystem™. Shannon is a fierce advocate for human-centric messaging and stands boldly against watered-down, generic content. Her intuitive leadership, powerful storytelling, and unwavering commitment to authenticity make her a standout guide for anyone wanting to communicate with more clarity, depth, and truth. Featured nationally and respected globally, Shannon brings heart, strategy, and lived experience into every conversation—and this episode is no exception.   Quote/Piece of Advice: You have to be ready to stand in your truth whatever that truth is.   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mshannonhernandez/ Website: https://joyfulbusinessrevolution.com/media/   To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli   My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com   Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect

In this episode: We dive deep into the realities of burnout, feeling stuck, and how to pivot into a life that feels truly fulfilling. We explore why burnout isn’t just stress — it’s a signal that your growth has stalled, and how to recognize the signs before it takes over. From the “Sunday pit in your stomach” to the loss of excitement for projects that once sparked joy, we unpack what it really means to move beyond a default path and reclaim your sense of purpose.   You’ll hear practical tools and strategies for taking action, including the power of mindset work, curiosity, and celebrating small wins. Kellie shares how exercises like the Wheel of Life and Clarity Canvases can help you visualize your ideal future, build momentum, and make incremental progress toward meaningful change. This episode is packed with actionable insights for anyone ready to stop going through the motions and start living intentionally.   Meet my guest: I had the honor of speaking with Kellie Grutko, Founder and Chief Pivot Officer of Purposeful Pivot. After nearly 20 years in corporate marketing, Kellie experienced firsthand what it feels like to have a “dream job” yet feel unfulfilled. She used that experience to create Purposeful Pivot, a company dedicated to helping accomplished women move through corporate burnout, define their core values, and pivot toward lives that feel purposeful and joyful.   Kellie is a heart-centered coach, vision-focused strategist, and advocate for mindful transitions. In this conversation, she shares her personal journey, the tools she uses to guide her clients, and how embracing curiosity, self-honesty, and a supportive community can transform the overwhelming process of change into something inspiring, manageable, and deeply fulfilling.   Quote/Piece of Advice: Just dream big, work the small wins, and enjoy the journey.   Website: www.purposefulpivot.net Linkedin: https://bit.ly/LinkedIn-PurposefulPivot Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PurposefulPivot/   To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli   My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com   Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect

In this episode: In this powerful and eye-opening conversation, we dive deep into the world of subconscious reprogramming and somatic healing with expert Krishna Avalon. Together, we explore how our early experiences shape the beliefs that silently guide our lives—and how gentle, body-centered practices can help us release old patterns and step into authentic alignment.   You’ll discover how 95% of our lives are influenced by the subconscious mind, what happens when trauma gets stored in the body, and why traditional talk therapy sometimes isn’t enough to create lasting change. Krishna shares her wisdom on PSYCH-K, neuroplasticity practices, and the importance of connecting the body’s sensations to the mind’s beliefs for deep, sustainable healing. This episode is an invitation to reprogram what no longer serves you, reconnect with your truth, and experience transformation with more ease and compassion.   Meet my guest: Krishna Avalon is a seasoned subconscious and somatic therapist, IFS practitioner, PSYCH-K facilitator, and licensed acupuncturist with over 22 years of experience guiding more than 30,000 people to their wellness goals. Her work bridges the gap between the mind and body, helping individuals heal trauma, regulate their nervous systems, and build new patterns of self-trust and authenticity.   Through her unique, heart-centered approach, Krishna empowers others to honor their needs, break cycles of people-pleasing, and create space for genuine self-love and connection. Her message reminds us that healing doesn’t have to be hard—it can be gentle, elegant, and profoundly freeing.   Quote/Piece of Advice: No matter what you've experienced or where you're at within your life, you are definitely worthy of the best that this love and life has to offer for you.   Website: www.krishnaavalon.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/krishnaavalon/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/krishnaavalon/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/krishnaavalon/   To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli   My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com   Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect

In this episode: In this solo episode, Kat Polsinelli gets real about one of the hardest lessons she’s learned — that silence isn’t protection, it’s a cage. For years, Kat believed staying quiet made her strong, especially after surviving a decade-long abusive relationship and rebuilding life as a single mom. But she discovered that silence only fed her shame, disconnected her from others, and stopped her healing. Now, she’s sharing that truth with the world.   Kat dives deep into how societal norms glorify “busy” and “strong,” teaching us to suppress emotions instead of honoring them. She breaks down how these beliefs create a culture of self-silencing, keeping us from true connection, rest, and authenticity. Through raw honesty and personal reflection, she reveals how vulnerability is not weakness — it’s an act of courage and self-preservation.   Listeners will learn how to start small by acknowledging their silent battles, journaling without judgment, and creating safe spaces for self-expression. Kat shares practical steps for breaking the cycle of silence and reframing vulnerability as proof that you’re alive, growing, and healing. This episode is both a heartfelt reminder and a powerful call to action: your silence doesn’t protect you — it only protects your pain from healing.   If you’ve ever felt trapped by the need to “stay strong,” this episode will remind you that strength isn’t about staying silent. It’s about finding your voice, honoring your truth, and rising above the noise with courage and heart.   Quote/Piece of Advice: What we don't face, we carry. And the longer that we carry it, the heavier that it gets.   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katpolsinelli Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thelotuseffect1 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thelotuseffectcoach   To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli   My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com   Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect

In this episode: What if one moment could completely change the direction of your life? In this powerful conversation, Jason Yarusi opens up about how a devastating car accident became the turning point that pushed him to break old patterns, rebuild his mindset, and create a life built on purpose and consistency. We dive into the lessons that came from his journey — from chaos and loss to structure and success — and how small, intentional actions can create massive, lasting results. Jason shares his “One More Mailbox” philosophy, the foundation of his Live 100 Framework, and how morning routines can help you take control of your day before the world even starts pulling at you. Whether you’re ending the year feeling stuck or ready to plan for the next chapter, this episode will help you reset, refocus, and take that next step toward the life you truly want.   Meet my guest: Jason Yarusi is a powerhouse entrepreneur, real estate investor, and transformation coach who knows firsthand what it means to rebuild from the ground up. After years of personal loss and chaotic living, a serious accident forced him to face a hard truth — if he wanted a different life, he had to take different actions. Today, Jason is the private fund manager of over $300 million in multifamily real estate, host of The Multifamily Live Podcast, creator of the Live 100 framework, and an ultra runner, husband, and father of three. His story is a powerful reminder that consistency beats chaos and that small, focused steps can lead to extraordinary outcomes.   Quote/Piece of Advice: Don't just keep learning, take the action and learn from the action.   Real estate: www.yarusiholdings.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JYarusi LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonyarusi/   🎧 Tune in here: https://open.spotify.com/show/2IfvjJDH1oBz0Gt5a3Khu9   To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli   My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com   Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect

In this episode: We dive into Andy’s journey from pain to purpose and explore actionable strategies for improving health and longevity. He shares insights on personalized nutrition, supplementation, detox practices, fasting, temperature therapy, and natural ways to stimulate the body’s healing mechanisms. Andy also emphasizes the importance of critical thinking when evaluating health advice and products, offering practical tips for anyone looking to take control of their health. This episode is packed with wisdom, inspiration, and actionable tools to help you feel stronger, think clearer, and live your best life. Meet my guest: This week on Real Chat with Kat, I’m joined by the incredible Andy Nam — Functional Longevity Expert, bestselling author, and international speaker. Andy’s story is nothing short of inspiring. After surviving a severe car accident and years of chronic pain, he transformed his health through nutrition, lifestyle changes, and biohacking. Now, he’s on a mission to help a million people unlock their body’s innate healing potential and live healthier, longer, and more vibrant lives. Quote/Piece of Advice: Always be listening to your body. Website: www.chronicallyhealthylife.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/PatchesNam/ Youtube: www.youtube.com/@chronicallyhealthylife LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/andycnam/   To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli    My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com   Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect

In this episode: If you’re building a brand for 2026 and beyond, this episode is one you can’t afford to miss. Kat sits down with IP lawyer and founder of InLine Legal, Samantha Bradshaw, for an insightful conversation on trademarks, intellectual property, and protecting the true value of your brand. Together, they unpack the importance of trademarks in business growth and why they can make up to 90% of a company’s value in an acquisition. Samantha shares how a simple trademark search can prevent costly rebranding disasters, why understanding your digital ownership rights matters, and how fall is the perfect season to pause, plan, and set solid foundations for the future. This episode is packed with practical legal wisdom and actionable advice for entrepreneurs who want to grow smart, safe, and strong. Meet my guest: Samantha Bradshaw is a passionate IP lawyer and the founder of InLine Legal, a 100% virtual Virginia law firm dedicated to helping creative service providers stay out of the courtroom and in the studio. After spending five years in Beirut, Lebanon, Samantha returned to the U.S. and built her firm to empower small business owners with practical, understandable legal guidance. She’s known for simplifying complex legal concepts and helping entrepreneurs protect their work, their brands, and their peace of mind. Quote/Piece of Advice: Ideas are the things that create economies Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inlinelegal/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samanthabesq/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/InLineLegal Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@inlinelegal To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli    My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com   Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect  

In this episode: I sat down with Lauri Smith, the Soulful Speaking Coach, for a powerful conversation about what it truly means to speak from the heart. We explore how to release protective “masks,” embrace your authentic rebel voice, and connect more deeply with audiences through soulful speaking. Lauri shares how breath, body alignment, and presence can unlock powerful communication, while balancing vulnerability with service allows your message to truly land. Whether you’re a leader, entrepreneur, or someone simply seeking to express yourself more fully, this episode will inspire you to show up, speak up, and shine with confidence. Meet my guest: Lauri Smith — a speaker, coach, and the creator of The Vocal Presence Path®. She is also the host of the Soulful Speaking Podcast and author of Your Voice Matters: A Guide to Speaking Soulfully When It Counts. Lauri treats speaking as a spiritual practice, guiding people to raise consciousness, heal old wounds, and return home to their truest selves. Her mission is to call forth more open-hearted leaders who are ready to change the world with authenticity, creativity, and courage. Quote/Piece of Advice: When you trust yourself, it's like magic. When you don't, it's really not working for you. Website: https://voice-matters.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauri-smith-voice-matters/ Yotube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCh91RFKkYB7WF83p4_DG9Ug Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/voice_matters_llc/ To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli    My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com   Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect

In this episode: We dive deep into the foundations of relationships, self-awareness, and emotional healing. Together with Dr. Margaret Cochran, we explore how childhood experiences shape the way we connect as adults, why family dynamics can lead us to repeat unhealthy patterns, and how to break free from limiting beliefs. You’ll learn practical tools like the “Mississippi” method for emotional regulation, grounding exercises to reset in the moment, and daily gratitude practices that rewire the brain for positivity. This episode is filled with insights and techniques you can start using right away to shift your mindset and create healthier relationships—with yourself and with others. Meet my guest: Dr. Margaret Cochran is a transpersonal psychologist, licensed clinical social worker, life coach, hypnotherapist, educator, YouTube personality, and author with more than 25 years of clinical experience. She takes a whole-person approach to mental health and wellness, guiding people to step beyond fear, challenge the stories they’ve been told, and embrace new possibilities for their lives. Her compassionate wisdom and practical strategies make this conversation both inspiring and transformational. Quote/Piece of Advice: Your senses are what allow you to be present in the moment. Not in the past, not worried about what happened, not worrying about what might happen, but just being here.   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-margaret-cochran/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/doctorcochran/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drmcochran Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drmargaretcochran Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@drmargaretcochran Website: www.drcochran.com   To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli    My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com   Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect

In this episode: In this solo episode of Real Chat with Kat, I open up about what it really takes to heal, grow, and step into your own power. Drawing from my personal journey of overcoming a decade-long abusive relationship, as well as lessons I’ve observed from past podcast guests, I share practical insights on how to acknowledge your experiences without comparison, break free from old patterns, and create a life that feels authentic. We explore how media consumption and daily choices influence your mindset, why embracing imperfections leads to deeper self-love, and how personal healing creates ripple effects that impact not only your own life but future generations. This episode is about choosing growth over fear, recognizing the power in your story, and taking small, daily actions that build positivity, resilience, and lasting change. Quote from the book “ The Mountain is You” by Brianna Wiest   Quote/Piece of Advice: Decide where you want to go in life because of you. Not because of what somebody is going to validate for you. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katpolsinelli Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thelotuseffect1 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thelotuseffectcoach   To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli    My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com   Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect

In this episode: Kat sits down with men’s coach, wilderness guide, and Durable Dad podcast host, Tommy Geary, for a raw and inspiring conversation about men’s emotional health, personal growth, and the power of slowing down. Together, they explore how nature creates space for healing and clarity, why vulnerability is a true superpower, and how modeling emotional openness—especially with children—can transform family dynamics. Tommy also shares his unique Q4 approach to reflection and goal-setting, encouraging listeners to reset, refocus, and finish the year strong. Meet my guest: Tommy Geary is a men’s executive coach and wilderness guide who blends outdoor adventure with deep personal development work. A husband, father of two adopted girls, former college athlete, and host of the Durable Dad podcast, Tommy brings both grit and heart to his coaching. With training in trauma-informed practices, somatic awareness, and mindfulness, he helps men cultivate balance, strengthen relationships, and unlock their peak potential. His passion lies in guiding men to slow down, live with intention, and connect deeply with what matters most. Quote/Piece of Advice: Anger isn't a problem. It's a normal emotion. It's supposed to be there, but it is our responsibility. https://www.tommygcoaching.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tommybgeary/ https://www.facebook.com/tommy.geary1 To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli    My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com   Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect

In this episode: Kat sits down with powerhouse entrepreneur and visionary Deb Drummond to explore what it truly means to trust your intuition, embrace collaboration, and build sustainable success. Deb shares her remarkable journey from the music industry to holistic health and ultimately to founding her own media company. Along the way, she opens up about the “non-negotiable” calling that changed everything, the ripple effect of gratitude and creativity, and why collaboration is the new competition. Listeners will walk away with fresh insight on intuition, media strategy, and the mindset shifts needed to thrive in today’s world of entrepreneurship.   Meet my guest: Deb Drummond is a trailblazing entrepreneur who has built seven international businesses and inspired thousands across the globe. A pioneer in health and wellness, she’s been recognized 48 times in Success Magazine, featured on CBC, NBC, ABC, Apple TV, Amazon TV, Roku, and Hulu, and is the visionary behind the Stand, Show & Speak Up Yes You! Movement, reaching 350 million viewers worldwide. As a speaker, podcast host, coach, and media innovator, Deb has educated audiences of over 20,000 and elevated more than 30,000 clients to new levels of health, wealth, and success. Her passion for empowering women and creating collaborative communities shines through in everything she does. Quote/Piece of Advice: The best work to do is one of trusting oneself, knowing oneself as best you can at that time, at that stage in your life. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DeborahLDrummond Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deborahldrummond/ LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/debdrummond/ Website: https://debdrummond.com/ To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli    My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com   Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect

In this episode: I sit down with Zoë Smith, founder of Your Vitality Coaching, to explore how yoga, meditation, and mindfulness can help us manage stress, anxiety, and burnout. Zoë shares her personal journey through burnout and recovery, along with practical tools anyone can use — from daily 5–10 minute mindfulness practices to journaling, breathwork, and energy healing. We dive into the importance of consistency, experimenting with different wellness modalities, and recognizing that true vitality comes from caring for the whole self, not just surface-level symptoms.   Meet my guest: Zoë Smith is the founder of Your Vitality Coaching, a holistic wellness practice blending yoga, movement, mindfulness, and energy healing to help people navigate burnout, grief, stress, and major life transitions. With a background spanning teaching, government leadership, and Eastern wellness traditions, Zoë brings a grounded, trauma-aware approach that supports both the nervous system and the whole self. Through her courses, memberships, and coaching programs, she’s created a global community where wellbeing is accessible, practical, and sustainable for busy lives everywhere.   Quote/Piece of Advice: Make that time for yourself. Take that time every day to step back and get calm, peace, and clarity. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourvitalitycoaching/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yourvitalitycoaching/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/yourvitalitycoaching Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDrbWVnHyOabyCIstXPRbjg Website: www.yourvitalitycoaching.com To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli    My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com   Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect

In this episode: We dive deep into the entrepreneurial journey of Samantha Gold, founder of both Motette and Atlas Row. Samantha shares how she turned a bold vision into reality—building a sustainable children’s clothing brand that landed in 35 boutiques within months and creating a virtual assistant agency to help other founders scale with ease. From Instagram DMs that drive 80% of her sales, to testing 11 factories before finding the right manufacturing partner, to balancing business growth with her own well-being and sobriety, Samantha brings a wealth of insight and real talk every entrepreneur can learn from. Meet my guest: Samantha Gold is the CEO and founder of Motette, a children’s clothing brand dedicated to blending style, comfort, and sustainability through organic bamboo fabrics, and Atlas Row, a consultancy that connects entrepreneurs with offshore talent. She is a purpose-driven leader, resilient entrepreneur, and heart-centered visionary who has built her businesses on strategy, perseverance, and authenticity. Samantha’s story is one of courage, creativity, and commitment to both personal and professional growth, and her wisdom will leave you feeling both inspired and equipped to take bold action in your own journey. Quote/Piece of Advice: Don’t let fear stop you from what could be incredible and just around the corner LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-gold-45251137/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shopmotette/ Websites: https://www.theatlasrow.com/ https://shopmotette.com/   To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli    My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com   Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect

In this episode: We dive into the power of delegation with Online Business Manager and Byte Bodega founder, Chynna Benton. Together, we explore how entrepreneurs can step out of the weeds and into their true CEO role by freeing up time, building stronger teams, and embracing a human-first approach to leadership. Chynna shares practical strategies for time auditing, creating trust through clear communication, and finding the right fit when building a team. Whether you’re overwhelmed by daily tasks or looking to scale your business with ease, this episode offers actionable insights to help you reclaim your time and focus on what matters most. Meet my guest: Chynna Benton is an operations and delegation expert who helps creative CEOs streamline their systems, optimize their teams, and finally get their businesses running like well-oiled machines. With a background in hospitality and customer service, she brings a unique perspective on people-first leadership and business management. Passionate about supporting mission-driven entrepreneurs, Chynna empowers leaders to build businesses that support their lives, not the other way around. Quote/Piece of Advice: Even if the first solution you tried didn’t work, don’t give up—sometimes it just wasn’t tailored to you or your business.   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/byte_bodega/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bytebodega LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chynna-benton/ Website: https://www.bytebodega.com/ To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli   My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com   Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect

In this episode: We explore a powerful conversation with Lisa Katona Smith about what it truly takes to support both individuals and families through addiction and mental health challenges. Lisa shares her groundbreaking Parallel Recovery® approach, revealing why recovery must include families for lasting change. We discuss the transformative power of becoming a compassionate witness, the importance of setting boundaries that protect your peace while keeping love alive, and how to avoid the hidden traps of over-helping. You’ll walk away with practical strategies to create connection, foster understanding, and protect your own wellbeing in the process. Meet my guest: Lisa Katona Smith is a TEDx speaker, author, and founder of Parallel Recovery®, a family recovery framework that’s reshaping how we approach healing. With decades of experience as an educator and advocate, Lisa works directly with families to empower them as active participants in the recovery process. Her work equips loved ones with the tools they need to foster connection, encourage change, and navigate the complexities of addiction and mental health with compassion and clarity. Her upcoming book, Parallel Recovery (releasing September 9th), offers even more practical guidance for those walking this journey alongside someone they love. Quote/Piece of Advice: Listen to understand rather than to respond https://www.instagram.com/parallel_recovery/?hl=en https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=parallel%20recovery https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-smith-985b48212/ To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli    My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com   Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect