If you’re the one keeping everyone else steady — managing emotions, smoothing conflict, carrying the weight of keeping the family or team “okay” — it’s not because you should just be stronger.It’s because you’re carrying unprocessed grief and hidden emotional burdens you were never given space to name. In this episode of Unlock Your Blocks, trauma-informed executive coach Elyssa Smith uncovers how unresolved grief from childhood shapes patterns like people-pleasing, over-responsibility, emotional caretaking, and disconnecting from your own needs. She explains how these survival strategies quietly follow high-achieving women into adulthood — and why acknowledging the grief underneath them is the key to finally feeling free, grounded, and whole. You'll walk away understanding why you feel drained, overwhelmed, or disconnected from yourself — and how to begin reconnecting to your desires, your truth, and your emotional boundaries without guilt.   💡 What You’ll Learn Why people-pleasing and emotional caretaking often come from hidden childhood grief How being the “emotional stabilizer” in your family taught you to suppress your own needs The link between trauma, survival mode, and over-responsibility Why high-achieving women often lose touch with their desires and joy How to recognize when you’re climbing into someone else’s “hula hoop” Simple steps to reconnect with your emotional truth and release the burden How nervous system regulation can help you stop carrying what was never yours   💬 Free Resource for Women ✨ 5 Nervous System Tricks You Can Do at Your Desk Designed specifically for high-achieving women who want to calm their body in under 60 seconds — even in the middle of the workday. 👉 Download it here: https://elyssasmith.com/reset   💖 For Women Ready for Their Next Breakthrough Book your FREE 15-minute Unlock Your Blocks Focus Call to uncover what’s keeping you from the balance, clarity, and peace you’ve been craving. This private call is just for women who are ready to stop running on empty and start leading with ease. 👉 elyssasmith.com/focus   Let’s stay connected: Instagram: https://instagram.com/elyssacsmith 💼 LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/elyssacsmith

Do you ever notice yourself gravitating toward chaos the moment life finally gets quiet? Maybe you overschedule, stay busy, worry nonstop, or feel restless the moment peace arrives. You’re not alone — and you’re not doing anything wrong. In this episode of Unlock Your Blocks, Elyssa breaks down why ease can feel unsafe for high-achieving women and how your nervous system pulls you back toward stress out of habit, not preference. You’ll learn simple grounding tools, body-based techniques, and emotional awareness practices that help you interrupt the urge to “fix,” “do,” or “add more” — so you can finally experience calm without discomfort or guilt. If slowing down feels foreign, scary, or impossible… this conversation will help you reclaim stillness as something your body can trust.   💡 What You’ll Learn Why your nervous system may resist calm and gravitate toward chaos How to interrupt the urge to fix, hustle, worry, or overschedule Grounding practices that create immediate feelings of safety How naming emotions reduces overwhelm and quiets internal tension The surprising grief many perfectionists and people-pleasers carry How to shift from reacting to observing — and regain control   💬 Free Resource for Women ✨ 5 Nervous System Tricks You Can Do at Your Desk Designed specifically for high-achieving women who want to calm their body in under 60 seconds — even in the middle of the workday. 👉 Download it here: https://elyssasmith.com/reset   💖 For Women Ready for Their Next Breakthrough Book your FREE 15-minute Unlock Your Blocks Focus Call to uncover what’s keeping you from the balance, clarity, and peace you’ve been craving. This private call is just for women who are ready to stop running on empty and start leading with ease. 👉 elyssasmith.com/focus   Let’s stay connected: Instagram: https://instagram.com/elyssacsmith 💼 LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/elyssacsmith

Have you ever asked yourself, “Why am I not moving forward when I know exactly what I want?”You’re not broken — you’re human. In this episode of Unlock Your Blocks, Elyssa uncovers the deeper reason so many high-achieving women feel resistance when they get close to success. It’s not laziness or a lack of motivation — it’s your nervous system trying to keep you safe. Elyssa breaks down how past experiences can make growth feel threatening, why your body may be afraid of expansion, and how to create the emotional safety your brain needs to let you rise. You’ll learn practical nervous system tools and a powerful visualization exercise to help you step into the version of yourself you’re becoming — without burnout, fear, or pressure. If you’ve ever felt stuck, stalled, or scared of your own potential… this episode is for you.   💡 What You’ll Learn Why you may feel stuck even when your goals are crystal clear How early experiences shape fear of success and self-sabotage The connection between emotional safety and sustainable growth Nervous system regulation tools that support expansion How visualization rewires your brain to feel safe succeeding Why success should feel joyful, spacious, and aligned — not forced   💬 Free Resource for Women ✨ 5 Nervous System Tricks You Can Do at Your Desk Designed specifically for high-achieving women who want to calm their body in under 60 seconds — even in the middle of the workday. 👉 Download it here   💖 For Women Ready for Their Next Breakthrough Book your FREE 15-minute Unlock Your Blocks Focus Call to uncover what’s keeping you from the balance, clarity, and peace you’ve been craving. This private call is just for women who are ready to stop running on empty and start leading with ease. 👉 elyssasmith.com/focus   Let’s stay connected: Instagram @elyssacsmith 💼 LinkedIn @elyssacsmith  

Do you replay conversations in your head… overanalyze every decision… or worry you said or did the “wrong thing”?You’re not alone — and there’s nothing wrong with you. In this episode of Unlock Your Blocks, Elyssa breaks down the real reason overthinking happens (hint: it’s not a mindset issue). Instead, she explains how second-guessing is a nervous system response rooted in childhood patterns, perfectionism, and fear of failure. You’ll learn how to recognize the moment your brain slips into “freeze mode,” how to calm the internal noise, and how to step into more confident, grounded decision-making. If your mind feels loud, busy, or impossible to shut off… this episode is your next step toward peace.   💡 What You’ll Learn Why overthinking is actually a survival response — not a character flaw How childhood experiences shape your decision-making patterns The connection between perfectionism and the freeze cycle Tools to soothe your nervous system when your mind won’t slow down How to rewire old beliefs so you can take aligned, confident action   💬 Free Resource for Women ✨ 5 Nervous System Tricks You Can Do at Your Desk Designed specifically for high-achieving women who want to calm their body in under 60 seconds — even in the middle of the workday. 👉 Download it here   💖 For Women Ready for Their Next Breakthrough Book your FREE 15-minute Unlock Your Blocks Focus Call to uncover what’s keeping you from the balance, clarity, and peace you’ve been craving. This private call is just for women who are ready to stop running on empty and start leading with ease. 👉 elyssasmith.com/focus   Let’s stay connected: Instagram @elyssacsmith 💼 LinkedIn @elyssacsmith  

In this short but powerful episode of Unlock Your Blocks, trauma-informed life strategist Elyssa Smith reminds us that rest isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity for healing, creativity, and sustainable success. She explores how small, intentional moments of rest can regulate the nervous system, prevent burnout, and reignite productivity. If you’ve ever felt guilty for slowing down or struggled to find balance between doing and being, this episode offers simple, practical steps to help you create a rhythm of rest that supports your body, mind, and goals. What You’ll Learn: Why rest is a vital part of the healing process How small, manageable rest actions can shift your entire day The connection between rest, creativity, and performance Why high achievers often resist rest—and how to change that Simple ways to incorporate rest without losing momentum How your nervous system benefits from rhythm, not extremes Practical rest ideas: breathing exercises, tea rituals, or music breaks Get a Free Call with Elyssa:Book your FREE 15-minute Unlock Your Blocks focus call to discover what’s keeping you from balance, clarity, and your next breakthrough. elyssasmith.com/focus 📌 Follow Elyssa for More: 📸 Instagram: @elyssacsmith 💬 Get the 5 Nervous System Tricks You Can do at Your Desk free download: https://elyssasmith.com/reset  

Motherhood can be one of the most rewarding — and overwhelming — journeys we ever take. In this heartfelt conversation, Rose opens up about the pressures moms face, especially in a world shaped by social media perfection. Together, we explore how those “highlight reels” online can shape our expectations and why true peace comes from embracing imperfection, listening to our own needs, and extending compassion to ourselves. What You’ll Learn Why unrealistic expectations often start from what we see online The difference between how motherhood looks and how it feels How to recognize and release guilt when things don’t go “as planned” The power of sitting with your emotions instead of judging them Why self-acceptance is one of the best gifts you can give your family Episode Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to Motherhood and Identity 00:40 – Building a Business as a Mom 02:15 – The Pressure of “Perfect Parenting” on Social Media 06:30 – Real Talk: Feeling Tired, Overwhelmed, and Still Showing Up 10:45 – Letting Go of Guilt and Embracing “Good Enough” 14:20 – Rebuilding Identity and Finding Fulfillment Beyond Motherhood 18:10 – The Freedom of Self-Acceptance 💬 Let’s Keep the Conversation Going If this episode resonated with you, book a free 15-minute call with Elyssa to explore how you can reduce the pressure and reconnect with yourself: elyssasmith.com/focus Follow Elyssa for more support and inspiration: 📸 Instagram: @elyssacsmith 💬 Get the 5 Nervous System Tricks You Can do at Your Desk free download: https://elyssasmith.com/reset  

Have you ever achieved something amazing… and still felt like a fraud? In this powerful episode of Unlock Your Blocks, trauma-informed life strategist Elyssa Smith unpacks imposter syndrome from a nervous system perspective. She explains how feelings of self-doubt and inadequacy are not simply mindset issues—they’re deeply rooted survival mechanisms shaped by early life experiences. Elyssa reveals how childhood conditioning, societal expectations, and gender differences contribute to imposter feelings, and why visibility can feel unsafe for high achievers. She also shares compassionate, practical strategies to quiet your inner critic, rewrite the “I don’t belong” story, and build confidence that feels safe in your body. ✅ What You’ll Learn: Why imposter syndrome is actually a trauma response, not just a mindset issue How early experiences of approval and achievement shape your sense of worth The link between visibility, fear, and nervous system dysregulation How men and women experience imposter syndrome differently The Dunning-Kruger effect and what it teaches about confidence gaps Practical steps to reframe imposter thoughts in real time The role of self-compassion in building genuine confidence How to use body awareness to interrupt self-doubt loops 🕒 Episode Chapters: 00:00 – Understanding Imposter Syndrome 02:45 – The Origins of Self-Doubt 05:35 – The Impact of Childhood Experiences 08:19 – Navigating Adult Challenges 11:30 – Gender Differences in Self-Perception 14:11 – Overcoming Imposter Syndrome 17:17 – Reframing Your Mindset 🎁 Get a Free Call with Elyssa: Book your FREE 15-minute Unlock Your Blocks focus call to uncover what’s keeping you from your next level of growth and clarity. 👉 Book here 📌 Follow Elyssa for More: 📸 Instagram: @elyssacsmith 📘 Facebook Group – The Stressless Lounge  

What happens when life falls apart—but you still have to show up for work? In this moving episode of Unlock Your Blocks, Elyssa Smith sits down with workplace empathy expert Liesl Mertes, founder of Handle with Care. Liesl opens up about her own journey through loss and how it inspired her mission to help organizations better support employees navigating grief, trauma, and major life transitions. They discuss the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership, how empathy can transform workplace culture, and why self-awareness is key to responding compassionately to others. This heartfelt conversation is an invitation to slow down, extend grace—to yourself and others—and recognize that healing and growth are both possible, even in the midst of hardship. ✅ What You’ll Learn: How empathy can transform workplace culture and leadership Why disruptive life events require emotional support at work Practical ways to build a culture of empathy and care How grief and trauma can deepen self-awareness and resilience The importance of gentleness and self-compassion during healing How to identify and overcome self-sabotaging behaviors The power of movement and nature for grounding and safety Why asking for help is an act of strength, not weakness 🕒 Episode Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction to Workplace Empathy 03:07 – Understanding Handle with Care 10:26 – Liesl’s Personal Journey of Loss 18:40 – Building Handle with Care 23:21 – Overcoming Self-Sabotage 31:50 – Finding Safety and Hope 39:27 – Final Thoughts and Recommendations 🎁 Get a Free Call with Elyssa: Book your FREE 15-minute Unlock Your Blocks focus call to uncover what’s keeping you from your next level of growth and clarity. 👉 Book here 📌 Follow Elyssa for More: 📸 Instagram: @elyssacsmith 📘 Facebook Group – The Stressless Lounge

Are you an overachiever, a procrastinator, or an avoider? In this episode of Unlock Your Blocks, trauma-informed life strategist Elyssa Smith breaks down the hidden faces of perfectionism—and how each one keeps you stuck in survival mode. She unpacks how these patterns often begin in childhood, where self-worth becomes tied to performance or praise, and explains how they evolve into anxiety, burnout, and self-doubt in adulthood. Elyssa shares practical, trauma-informed strategies for identifying your perfectionism style and starting to reprogram your nervous system to feel safe with imperfection. Through gentle awareness and small, intentional steps, you’ll learn how to trade the exhausting pursuit of “perfect” for the freedom of progress, authenticity, and peace. ✅ What You’ll Learn: The three main types of perfectionists: overachiever, procrastinator, and avoider How childhood conditioning fuels perfectionistic tendencies The connection between perfectionism, anxiety, and burnout Why procrastination is often a form of self-protection How to reprogram your beliefs about failure and worth The power of taking small, imperfect actions Why your nervous system resists change (and how to make it feel safe) How embracing imperfection leads to deeper growth and joy 🕒 Episode Chapters: 00:00 – Understanding Perfectionism 05:51 – The Three Faces of Perfectionism 10:18 – Reprogramming Perfectionist Patterns 15:13 – Taking Action Against Perfectionism 🎁 Get a Free Call with Elyssa: Book your FREE 15-minute Unlock Your Blocks focus call to uncover what’s keeping you from your next level of growth and clarity. 👉 Book here 📌 Follow Elyssa for More: 📸 Instagram: @elyssacsmith 📘 Facebook Group – The Stressless Lounge

High-achieving women are often seen as strong, capable, and unstoppable—but behind the success, many are silently carrying the weight of unhealed trauma. In this powerful episode of Unlock Your Blocks, Elyssa Smith is joined by Krystal Williams to unpack the realities of healing for women who have learned to perform, lead, and hold it all together—often at the expense of their own well-being. Krystal vulnerably shares her journey through childhood trauma, the impact of family dynamics, and how embracing self-leadership became a turning point in her healing. Together, they discuss the importance of emotional expression, breaking toxic cycles, and making space for authentic self-care. If you’ve ever felt like you had to be the crisis manager for everyone else, this conversation will remind you that healing is not just possible—it’s your birthright. ✅ What You’ll Learn: Why high-achieving women often struggle with hidden trauma How crying can be a powerful sign of emotional release and healing The impact of family dynamics and the need to set boundaries Why stepping out of the “crisis manager” role matters for growth How trauma can manifest in subtle, overlooked ways The role of self-leadership in breaking toxic cycles The question to ask when you don’t know what’s next in your healing journey Why playing small limits not only you, but those around you Practical steps to embrace patience, self-care, and compassion 🕒 Episode Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction to Healing and Trauma 02:44 – Krystal's Journey Through Trauma 13:25 – Understanding PTSD and Its Impact 17:40 – Navigating the Path to Healing 22:30 – The Roots of Trauma and Personal Growth 25:22 – Navigating Family Dynamics and Personal Healing 31:03 – The Journey of Self-Discovery and Leadership 38:54 – Embracing the Healing Process and Self-Care 43:24 – Looking Ahead: Future Conversations and Connections 🎁 Get a Free Call with Elyssa: Ready to step into healing and self-leadership? Book your FREE 15-minute Unlock Your Blocks focus call with Elyssa and start reclaiming your energy and clarity today. 👉 Book here 📌 Follow Elyssa for More: 📸 Instagram: @elyssacsmith 📘 Facebook Group – The Stressless Lounge  

Have you ever wondered why you procrastinate, freeze, or hesitate just as you’re about to step into something bigger? In this episode of Unlock Your Blocks, Elyssa Smith unpacks the hidden reasons behind self-sabotage and how survival mode—often rooted in childhood experiences—can shape the way we approach success as adults. Elyssa shares how fear of visibility, anxiety, and inner criticism often keep women from asking for more, stepping into leadership, or fully embracing opportunities. She introduces the power of inner child work, practical mindset shifts, and pattern interrupts to help you break free from cycles of self-doubt. If you’ve ever felt stuck, this conversation will give you tools to move forward with compassion, courage, and clarity. ✅ What You’ll Learn: How survival mode contributes to self-sabotaging behaviors Why childhood experiences impact your motivation and view of success The connection between fear of visibility and procrastination How anxiety shows up as resistance when you’re close to growth The importance of reassuring your inner child during transitions Why investing in yourself is key to sustainable success How to use pattern interrupts to break cycles of self-doubt Ways to reframe setbacks and enjoy the journey, not just the outcome 🕒 Episode Chapters: 00:00 – Understanding Survival Mode and Its Impact on Success 08:28 – Breaking the Cycle of Self-Sabotage 11:36 – Practical Steps to Overcome Fear of Success 🎁 Get a Free Call with Elyssa: Book your FREE 15-minute Unlock Your Blocks focus call to uncover what’s keeping you from your next level of growth and clarity. 👉 Book here 📌 Follow Elyssa for More: 📸 Instagram: @elyssacsmith 📘 Facebook Group – The Stressless Lounge

Life can pivot in an instant, and sometimes those challenges reveal your true purpose. In this episode of Unlock Your Blocks, Elyssa Smith sits down with Missy Shopshire to explore her transition from a high-powered corporate sales career to becoming a life and business coach. Missy shares her personal story, including facing her daughter’s illness and a near-death experience of her own, which prompted a deep reevaluation of her life and priorities. They discuss overcoming self-sabotage, trusting your intuition, embracing visibility, and the importance of building support systems. This conversation is a powerful reminder that intentional living and stepping into your purpose often require courage, reflection, and actionable steps. ✅ What You’ll Learn: How unexpected life challenges can spark personal transformation Common self-sabotage patterns among high-achieving women The importance of trusting your intuition for growth and decision-making Why delegation and support systems are essential for success How to embrace visibility and self-promotion with confidence Lessons in intentional living and prioritizing your purpose Practical steps for taking small, meaningful actions toward your goals 🕒 Episode Chapters: 00:00 – From Sales Success to Life Coaching 06:42 – Facing Life's Challenges: A Near-Death Experience 11:47 – The Journey of Self-Discovery and Purpose 17:08 – Overcoming Self-Sabotage and Embracing Visibility 24:53 – Redefining Intentions in Speaking Engagements 26:09 – The Power of Authenticity and Connection 28:05 – The Importance of Support and Delegation 30:12 – Learning to Ask for Help 33:40 – Finding Flexibility in Entrepreneurship 37:03 – Trusting Yourself and Your Body 39:24 – Choosing Your Response in Difficult Times 40:05 – Taking the Next Right Step 42:00 – Empowering Self-Care Practices   🎁 Get a Free Call with Elyssa: Book your FREE 15-minute Unlock Your Blocks focus call to uncover what’s keeping you from your next level of growth and clarity. 👉 Book here 📌 Follow Elyssa for More: 📸 Instagram: @elyssacsmith 📘 Facebook Group – The Stressless Lounge  

Ever feel like you’re your own worst enemy? That harsh inner voice might not be laziness or weakness—it’s actually a protective mechanism your brain learned long ago. In this episode of Unlock Your Blocks, trauma-informed life strategist Elyssa Smith unpacks the roots of self-criticism and negative self-talk. She explains how these patterns often come from childhood experiences and societal pressures, then linger into adulthood as overactive inner critics. Elyssa shares practical strategies to recognize when self-criticism shows up, reframe it with compassion, and retrain the brain through nervous system regulation. If you’ve been stuck in cycles of doubt or judgment, this episode will give you tools to shift from self-sabotage to self-support. ✅ What You’ll Learn: Why harsh self-criticism often starts in childhood How negative self-talk is secretly trying to protect you The role your nervous system plays in fueling self-doubt Why recognizing the inner critic is the first step to healing Practical ways to bring self-compassion into your daily routine How nervous system regulation helps calm inner judgment The power of reframing negative self-talk to support growth Why creating a supportive lifestyle accelerates change When seeking professional help can be a game-changer 🕒 Episode Chapters: 00:00 – Understanding Harsh Self-Criticism 04:58 – The Impact of Negative Self-Talk 08:03 – Recognizing and Integrating the Inner Critic 12:25 – Rewiring the Brain for Self-Compassion 🎁 Get a Free Call with Elyssa: Ready to quiet the inner critic and unlock more compassion for yourself? Book your FREE 15-minute Unlock Your Blocks focus call with Elyssa and start building a kinder, more supportive relationship with yourself. 👉 Book here 📌 Follow Elyssa for More: 📸 Instagram: @elyssacsmith 📘 Facebook Group – The Stressless Lounge  

Making a career pivot can feel intimidating—especially when self-doubt and imposter syndrome creep in. In this episode of Unlock Your Blocks, Elyssa Smith sits down with Kristen Weeden to talk about trusting your instincts, embracing authenticity, and navigating the challenges women face in leadership. Kristen shares her journey from sports management to corporate HR, offering a candid look at the lessons learned along the way. Together, they discuss the power of authenticity in leadership, building positive workplace culture, and challenging the self-limiting beliefs that hold women back. If you’ve ever felt like you needed to check every box before going after an opportunity, this conversation will inspire you to step forward with confidence and own the value you bring. ✅ What You’ll Learn: Why trusting your gut is essential for career pivots How self-doubt keeps women from pursuing opportunities The role authenticity plays in leadership and workplace culture Why negative self-talk undermines career fulfillment How to balance serving others with caring for yourself Why you don’t need to meet every qualification to apply for a role How diversity strengthens organizations and teams The importance of focusing on impact, not accolades 🕒 Episode Chapters: 00:00 – The Journey of Pivots 04:55 – From Sports Management to Corporate HR 11:43 – Trusting Your Gut in Career Decisions 18:07 – Overcoming Self-Doubt and Imposter Syndrome 24:06 – The Importance of Authenticity in Leadership 30:18 – Navigating Gender Dynamics in the Workplace 37:42 – Creating a Positive Work Culture 43:47 – Taking Action Against Negative Self-Talk 🎁 Get a Free Call with Elyssa: Ready to break through self-doubt and step into your next level of leadership? Book your FREE 15-minute Unlock Your Blocks focus call with Elyssa today. 👉 Book here 📌 Follow Elyssa for More: 📸 Instagram: @elyssacsmith 📘 Facebook Group – The Stressless Lounge  

Not all “self-care” is actually caring for yourself. Sometimes it’s survival mode in disguise. In this episode of Unlock Your Blocks, trauma-informed life strategist Elyssa Smith breaks down the subtle differences between restorative self-care and sneaky self-sabotage. She reveals how childhood messages shape the way we treat ourselves as adults, especially when it comes to productivity, fear, and avoidance. If you’ve ever wondered why your “breaks” sometimes leave you feeling worse, this conversation will help you recognize what’s really happening and how to shift into true, supportive self-care. Elyssa shares calming techniques, practical strategies, and mindset shifts to help you rewire limiting beliefs and create a safe environment where growth can actually flourish. ✅ What You’ll Learn: How survival mode can masquerade as self-care The impact of childhood messages on adult behaviors Why your nervous system triggers self-sabotage when it perceives threats How to tell the difference between a needed break and avoidance Why unintentional “self-care” can actually stall your growth How to spot patterns of exhaustion before they sabotage progress Simple calming techniques to reset your system in the moment How uncovering the root of your fears helps overcome self-sabotage Why creating safety is essential for lasting personal growth 🕒 Episode Chapters: 00:00 – Understanding Survival Mode vs. Self-Care 02:45 – The Impact of Childhood Messages on Adult Behavior 05:48 – Recognizing Self-Sabotage in the Name of Self-Care 08:35 – Strategies for Overcoming Self-Sabotage 11:41 – Creating a Safe Environment for Growth 🎁 Get a Free Call with Elyssa: If self-sabotage keeps showing up in your “self-care,” let’s uncover what’s really going on. Book your FREE 15-minute Unlock Your Blocks focus call with Elyssa and learn how to create a safe, growth-focused reset. 👉 Book here 📌 Follow Elyssa for More: 📸 Instagram: @elyssacsmith 📘 Facebook Group – The Stressless Lounge  

Can high-achieving women actually slow down, heal, and thrive—without burning out or giving up their ambition? In this transformative episode of Unlock Your Blocks, Elyssa Smith interviews Lauren Prasek, an integrative psychiatry expert and women’s wellness educator who went from finance to functional medicine. Together, they explore the powerful link between trauma, chronic health issues, and the importance of self-advocacy in healthcare—especially for women who are used to pushing through pain to perform. Lauren shares why traditional medicine often falls short for women, how the gut-brain connection affects your mood and motivation, and why small changes (not big overhauls) are the key to long-term wellness. If you’re feeling dismissed, depleted, or disconnected from your health, this episode will help you reclaim your power—and trust your body again. ✅ What You’ll Learn: Why so many women feel unheard or misdiagnosed in traditional healthcare The gut-brain connection and how it impacts mood, focus, and stress How trauma can manifest as chronic health issues What integrative psychiatry is and how it supports the whole person Why medication is a tool—not the full solution—for healing The hidden cost of performance-based self-worth How to build sustainable self-care habits (even with a busy life) Why high achievers need data and intuition to track their healing How to advocate for yourself with doctors and health providers Why your 30s, 40s, and beyond are still prime time to thrive 🕒 Episode Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction to Holistic Wellness 01:44 – Lauren's Unconventional Journey 04:09 – The Need for Holistic Approaches 06:44 – Understanding Trauma and Illness 11:18 – Integrative Psychiatry Explained 15:26 – The Challenge of Impatience in Healing 19:38 – Building Small Habits for Big Change 23:16 – Performance-Based Self-Worth and Motivation 25:17 – The Challenge of Small Changes 28:14 – Tracking Progress and Celebrating Wins 30:58 – Understanding the Brain-Gut Connection 32:56 – Empowering Self-Advocacy in Health 36:21 – Self-Care Practices for Busy Lives 🎁 Get a Free Call with Elyssa: Ladies—book your FREE 15-minute Unlock Your Blocks focus call with Elyssa to get to the root of why you're stuck playing small and discover your next steps. You’re just 15 minutes away from the clarity that will set you free! 👉 Book here 📌 Follow Elyssa for More: 📸 Instagram: @elyssacsmith 📘 Facebook Group – The Stressless Lounge  

If you’ve been working so hard for your next breakthrough but it feels like it never comes, your nervous system may be holding the brakes. In this episode of Unlock Your Blocks, trauma-informed life strategist Elyssa Smith unpacks the hidden patterns that keep high-achieving women stuck—especially the “hero daughter” identity. This role, often formed in childhood, teaches you to earn love, safety, and worth through constant productivity and managing others’ needs. The problem? That same programming can make rest, ease, and abundance feel unsafe. Elyssa shares how to spot these deep-rooted patterns, how to gently rewire your nervous system for safety, and why even a 1% upgrade in your daily life can trigger massive change over time. If you’ve been waiting for “the other shoe to drop,” this conversation will show you how to finally put both feet on steady ground. ✅ What You’ll Learn: Why your next breakthrough may feel “stuck” despite hard work The hero daughter identity and how it shapes your adult life How childhood programming impacts procrastination and perfectionism Why rest and ease can feel unsafe for high achievers How your nervous system rejects abundance without realizing it Why survival mode gets triggered even when things are going well How to create a track record of safety with small daily changes What a “1% upgrade” is and how it rewires your patterns How to care for yourself in ways your younger self never saw modeled 🕒 Episode Chapters: 00:00 – Breaking the Cycle of Stagnation 03:09 – The Hero Daughter Identity 05:57 – The Impact of Childhood Programming 08:50 – Navigating Adult Life with Old Programming 11:52 – Creating a Track Record of Safety 🎁 Get a Free Call with Elyssa: Feeling stuck in a loop of hard work without progress? Book your FREE 15-minute Unlock Your Blocks focus call with Elyssa and uncover the nervous system patterns that are keeping you from your next breakthrough. 👉 Book here 📌 Follow Elyssa for More: 📸 Instagram: @elyssacsmith 📘 Facebook Group – The Stressless Lounge

What if the key to your next breakthrough isn’t doing more—but becoming more of who you really are? In this empowering episode of Unlock Your Blocks, Elyssa Smith sits down with Mapuana Reed—photographer turned podcast host and founder of Malama Rituals. Mapuana shares her brave journey of pivoting from a successful career in photography to creating a life that honors her intuition, creativity, and emotional well-being. They explore what it truly means to evolve, the subtle ways self-sabotage creeps in, and how daily rituals can help women reconnect with themselves. If you’re in a season of transition or craving more authenticity, this episode will inspire you to listen in, trust your inner voice, and take gentle steps toward the life you actually want. ✅ What You’ll Learn: Why becoming your truest self is the real work of growth How to recognize when it’s time to pivot in your career or life Subtle forms of self-sabotage and how to move through them The power of small boundaries to reclaim your time and energy Why authenticity and embracing your age is deeply empowering How tuning into your intuition leads to aligned decision-making The role of daily rituals in cultivating gratitude and inner peace What it means to leave something you love while still honoring it How boundaries teach others how to treat you Ways to create emotional safety through self-care and reflection 🕒 Episode Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction to Mapuana Reed 01:37 – The Journey of Becoming 04:15 – Recognizing the Need for Change 07:02 – The Concept of Journey on Becoming 10:14 – Overcoming Self-Sabotage 13:43 – Embracing Age and Authenticity 15:39 – Setting Boundaries and Choosing Happiness 19:29 – Listening to Your Intuition 21:10 – Journey of Self-Discovery 22:46 – The Power of Daily Rituals 25:42 – Gratitude in Everyday Life 29:43 – Setting Boundaries for Self-Care 33:58 – Reparenting the Inner Child 36:12 – Finding Balance and Resetting 🎁 Get a Free Call with Elyssa: Ladies—book your FREE 15-minute Unlock Your Blocks focus call with Elyssa to get to the root of why you're stuck playing small and discover your next steps. You’re just 15 minutes away from the clarity that will set you free! 👉 Book here 📌 Follow Elyssa for More: 📸 Instagram: @elyssacsmith 📘 Facebook Group – The Stressless Lounge  

Do you overthink everything, aim for perfection, and still feel like it's never enough? You’re not broken—you’re protecting yourself. In this episode of Unlock Your Blocks, trauma-informed life strategist Elyssa Smith (not Alissa 😅) breaks down the perfectionism-overthinking loop that keeps so many high-achieving women stuck. She unpacks how these patterns often originate from childhood environments where safety and love were linked to performance, people-pleasing, or doing everything just right. Elyssa explains how perfectionism isn’t about high standards—it’s about emotional safety. And more importantly, she shares how to start breaking the cycle with compassion, curiosity, and small, body-based shifts that rewire your nervous system for peace, not panic. If you’ve been trying to "fix" yourself with more discipline and hustle, this episode is your permission slip to do the opposite. ✅ What You’ll Learn: Why perfectionism and overthinking are often trauma responses How childhood environments shaped your relationship with achievement Why overachievers often fall into self-sabotage cycles The role of emotional safety in making meaningful change Why high standards aren't the problem—but fear is How analysis paralysis keeps you stuck in inaction Simple ways to nurture your nervous system and reduce overwhelm How to create internal safety to move forward with confidence The truth about “dysfunctional” families and why it’s not your fault Practical strategies to rewire old patterns for more freedom and peace 🕒 Episode Chapters: 00:00 – Understanding Perfectionism and Overthinking 07:08 – The Impact of High Standards on Life 12:04 – Strategies for Letting Go and Moving Forward 🎁 Get a Free Call with Elyssa: Feeling stuck in a cycle of self-sabotage, burnout, or overthinking? Book your FREE 15-minute Unlock Your Blocks focus call with Elyssa and get to the root of what’s keeping you stuck. 👉 Book here 📌 Follow Elyssa for More: 📸 Instagram: @elyssacsmith 📘 Facebook Group – The Stressless Lounge  

Is your clutter more than just “stuff”? It might be a trauma response. In this transformative episode of Unlock Your Blocks, Elyssa Smith sits down with Valerie Huard, a trauma-informed decluttering expert and creator of the Do Well method. Valerie opens up about her personal journey with clutter and how unhealed trauma shaped her environment—and her stress. Together, they explore how clutter goes beyond physical objects, touching on emotional overwhelm, mental clutter, and self-sabotaging patterns. Valerie offers powerful, practical tips to help you declutter not just your space, but your mind and nervous system, too. ✅ What You’ll Learn: How trauma affects your ability to manage clutter Why emotional and mental clutter must be addressed first The truth about procrastination and perfectionism in decluttering How the Do Well method reduces stress before organizing Why creating emotional safety is the first step to change How to use gloves to lessen overwhelm when sorting items The importance of celebrating small wins How clutter can serve as a hiding place Transformation stories that show what’s possible when you declutter from the inside out 🕒 Episode Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction to Trauma-Informed Decluttering 02:25 – Valerie's Journey to Trauma-Informed Decluttering 07:55 – Understanding Trauma and Clutter 09:29 – Self-Sabotage and Clutter 12:22 – The Impact of Trauma on Home Management 18:15 – The Do Well Method Explained 22:53 – Creating Sustainable Change 27:47 – Transformation Stories 32:26 – First Steps to Decluttering 33:50 – Practical Tips for Decluttering 36:10 – Favorite Pump-Up Songs and Self-Care Connect with Valerie: https://up.dowellht.com/7secrets-es Get a free call with Elyssa:​​Ladies - book your FREE 15-minute Unlock Your Blocks focus call with Elyssa to get to the root of why you are stuck playing small and help you discover your next steps. You are just 15 minutes from the clarity that will set you free! Book here: https://elyssasmith.com/focus 📌 Follow Elyssa for More: 📸 Instagram 📘 Facebook Group – The Stressless Lounge