Episode 144: Why Breathe if you know you are going to die: Is Life about the Outcome or the Expierence?   In this deeply reflective episode, Kimen explores a profound question sparked by a social media interview: "Why breathe if you know you're going to die?" This simple yet powerful question becomes a lens for examining what life is truly about—not the outcomes we chase, but the full spectrum of human experience we embrace along the way. Kimen shares personal stories of perfectionism, failed dreams of becoming a monk, career stress, and unexpected love, revealing how every "failure" shaped him into who he was meant to be. He challenges the idea that life is about guaranteed outcomes, arguing instead that life is about courage, vulnerability, and trusting the process. Drawing on wisdom from Buddha, C.S. Lewis, and Wayne Gretzky, Kimen reminds us that growth is guaranteed when we move forward—even when success isn't. This episode is an invitation to breathe deeply, love courageously, and live fully in each moment, because the experience itself is sacred. [0:00 - 0:40] Introduction to Your Inner Advocate podcast [0:40 - 2:15] Opening meditation: "Take a breath with me"—setting the tone for presence and feeling [2:15 - 3:35] The viral question: "Why breathe if you know you're going to die?"—a moment of pure wisdom [3:35 - 6:00] Reflecting on life's purpose: Why do we bother with the daily grind if we all die eventually? [6:00 - 8:30] Kimen's perfectionism: "It will never be perfect, so why even try?"—and how tiny shifts create massive change [8:30 - 11:00] Is life about the outcome or the experience? The spectrum of being human [11:00 - 13:30] Love without guarantees: Why falling in love, even briefly, is courageous and transformative [13:30 - 16:00] Goals as growth tools: Setting impossible lifelong goals to become who you're meant to be [16:00 - 19:00] Kimen's story: The path to becoming a monk, meeting his future wife, and "failing" into his true calling [19:00 - 21:00] The hospital moment: How stress and failure led him to his current work helping others [21:00 - 23:00] Trusting the process: "Your life doesn't get better by chance, it gets better by change" [23:00 - 25:00] The puzzle and tapestry metaphors: Life can only be understood looking back [25:00 - 27:00] The full spectrum of life: You can't experience joy without sadness—feeling is freedom [27:00 - 24:30] Closing message: Keep loving, dreaming, and breathing—the experience is sacred [24:30 - 25:32] Outro and podcast information

Episode 43: From Setbacks to Success: The Power of Failing Forward In this episode of "Your Inner Advocate," host Kimen Petersen challenges the conventional fear of failure and reframes it as a vital ingredient for success. Drawing from personal stories and soulful insights, Kimen explores how every setback is an opportunity to learn, grow, and build resilience. Listeners are encouraged to process their emotions, reframe negative self-talk, and see failure as a stepping stone rather than a stopping point. The episode offers practical advice on developing an "inner advocate," overcoming the inner critic, and using each experience—good or bad—as a foundation for future success.    

Episode 42: Intentional Imbalance: The Truth About Chasing Your Dreams In this episode, Kimen Petersen challenges the conventional wisdom of work-life balance, introducing the concept of "dynamic equilibrium" as a healthier, more realistic approach to life’s demands. Drawing on personal experience and a biological analogy, Kimen explains how life moves in seasons—sometimes requiring intense focus on work, other times on rest, relationships, or creativity. Rather than striving for constant balance, listeners are encouraged to embrace intentional imbalance, pursue their passions unapologetically, and trust that life will naturally rebalance over time. The episode offers practical wisdom for anyone feeling guilty about their ambitions, reminding us that greatness is built on devotion, not on “shoulds,” and that true satisfaction comes from giving our best in each season of life. 0:00 – 2:00: Introduction; questioning the idea of work-life balance and sharing personal routines. 2:00 – 4:00: Conversation about dynamic equilibrium; biological analogy of rabbits and lynx populations. 4:00 – 7:00: Embracing intensity and joy in work; rejecting guilt for working hard or dreaming big. 7:00 – 10:00: The dangers of making balance a moral standard; how guilt and “shoulds” undermine greatness. 10:00 – 13:00: Dynamic equilibrium as a framework; life moves in seasons, priorities shift. 13:00 – 16:00: The cost of excellence; athletes, entrepreneurs, and creators as examples of intentional imbalance. 16:00 – 20:00: Permission to lean in; focus versus failure; trusting the process of rebalancing. 20:00 – End: Letting go of comparison; reframing balance as honesty and responsiveness; closing thoughts and gratitude.

Episode 41: You Are Not One Feeling: The Power of Emotional Complexity   In this episode of "Your Inner Advocate," host Kimen Petersen explores the liberating truth that we are not limited to a single feeling, belief, or experience at any given time. Drawing from personal stories and soulful insights, Kimen challenges the myth of emotional simplicity and encourages listeners to embrace the full spectrum of their emotions. Through reflections on pain, hope, courage, and resilience, the episode highlights how holding contradictions is not a weakness but a testament to our humanity. Listeners are reminded that growth is not linear, and that every emotion—whether joy, sadness, fear, or hope—can coexist and contribute to a richer, more authentic life. The episode closes with an empowering message: you are an expansive being, always becoming, and your inner advocate is here to guide you through every season. 0:00 – 0:40 — Introduction to the podcast and its purpose: inspiration, soulful insights, and meaningful life lessons. 0:41 – 1:30 — The episode’s central theme: you can hold more than one feeling, truth, or belief at a time. 1:31 – 3:00 — Debunking the myth of emotional simplicity; exploring the complexity of human emotions. 3:01 – 6:00 — Personal reflections on how the mind seeks simplicity and clarity, and how pain and possibility can coexist. 6:01 – 8:00 — The paradox of being human: holding contradictions, grieving losses while believing in the future, and the resilience to keep going. 8:01 – 10:00 — Emotional maturity and the ability to hold conflicting feelings; challenging toxic cultural messages about emotions. 10:01 – 13:00 — Sadness as a sign of caring deeply, not weakness; the value of emotional risk and investment. 13:01 – 16:00 — The coexistence of pain and belief, and how hope is a decision to move forward despite despair. 16:01 – 19:00 — The secret of successful people: getting up again and again, learning from experience, and reframing failure as feedback. 19:01 – 22:00 — Navigating a fast-paced world as an expansive being; feeling pride, disappointment, and inspiration simultaneously. 22:01 – 25:00 — Embracing emotional complexity, resisting the urge to simplify, and allowing all feelings to be valid. 25:01 – 28:00 — Emotional endurance: holding fear, doubt, and exhaustion without giving up; resilience without hardening. 28:01 – 31:00 — Encouragement for those in difficult seasons: continuing is a sign of devotion, not delusion. 31:01 – End — Closing thoughts: you are not defined by one feeling or outcome; you are always becoming. Call to action to keep developing your inner advocate.

Episode 140: Letting Others In: The Gift of Sharing Our Struggles In this heartfelt episode of "Your Inner Advocate," Kimen Petersen explores the often-unspoken truth that while we readily share our joys and successes, we tend to hide our pain and struggles—even from those closest to us. Kimen challenges the belief that we must handle hardships alone, revealing how vulnerability is not a weakness but a profound act of courage and trust. Through personal stories, psychological insights, and practical advice, listeners are encouraged to let others in during tough times, understanding that sharing pain is a gift that deepens connection and gives meaning to relationships. The episode concludes with a powerful reminder: you are not a burden, and those who love you want to be there for all of you—the highs, the lows, and everything in between. 0:00 – 1:15: Introduction—why we share laughter but hide our tears; the quiet truth of emotional isolation. 1:15 – 4:00: The reasons we hide our struggles: fear of being a burden, appearing weak, or ruining the mood; societal conditioning. 4:00 – 7:00: The cost of hiding pain—how it robs others of the chance to support us and find meaning; the biology of helping others. 7:00 – 10:00: The importance of vulnerability; Brene Brown’s perspective; how sharing pain is a gift to friends. 10:00 – 13:00: Real connection is built on honesty, not just happiness; what friends truly want is to be trusted and to make a difference. 13:00 – 16:00: The myth of doing it alone; the need for connection and the dangers of isolation. 16:00 – 19:00: Practical ways to lean in and ask for support; using code words and clear communication with trusted friends. 19:00 – 22:00: The reframe—allowing others to support you gives them purpose and meaning; the mutual benefit of shared vulnerability. 22:00 – 25:00: Encouragement to reach out, trust your people, and let them in during hard times. 25:00 – End: Final reflections—life is a full range of emotions, and sharing both the highs and lows brings us closer; closing thoughts and call to action.

Episode 139: Start Before You're Ready: Why Waiting for New Year's Holds You Back In this episode of "Your Inner Advocate," host Kimen Petersen explores the common habit of waiting for the "right moment"—like New Year's Day or a Monday—to make meaningful changes in our lives. Drawing from personal stories, motivational insights, and practical wisdom, Kimen challenges listeners to break free from the illusion that change requires a special date or perfect conditions. Instead, he encourages immediate action, emphasizing that readiness is a decision, not a feeling. The episode delves into the dangers of procrastination, the importance of building self-trust through small daily actions, and the transformative power of embracing imperfection. Listeners are invited to start now, take the first step, and become the person their future self will thank. 0:00 – 0:40 — Introduction to the podcast and host Kimen Petersen’s philosophy0:41 – 2:00 — Why do we wait for special dates to change? The myth of the "right moment."2:01 – 4:00 — The cost of waiting: how delay weakens self-trust and builds procrastination4:01 – 7:00 — Action cures fear; inaction breeds doubt. Insights from Tony Robbins on pain and change7:01 – 10:00 — The difference between dreams and goals; the importance of systems over intentions10:01 – 13:00 — Taking the first step: why you don’t need the whole plan to begin13:01 – 16:00 — Embracing imperfection and resilience: learning from children and the willingness to fail16:01 – 19:00 — Building discipline and self-respect through daily action19:01 – 22:00 — The power of identity and habits in shaping your future22:01 – 25:00 — Inspirational quotes and personal reflections on perseverance25:01 – End — Final call to action: start now, don’t wait for New Year’s, and keep developing your inner advocate

Episode 138: Let Life Be Messy: Embracing Imperfection In this episode, Kimen Petersen explores the universal struggle with perfectionism and the fear of not being enough. Through personal stories, motivational quotes, and practical advice, Kimen encourages listeners to let go of the myth of readiness and embrace the messy, imperfect process of growth. The episode highlights the emotional costs of perfectionism, the importance of progress over perfection, and the power of showing up authentically—even when it feels uncomfortable. Listeners are challenged to start before they feel ready, celebrate their efforts, and give themselves permission to be a work in progress. The message is clear: you don’t have to be perfect; you just have to be willing to begin. 0:00–2:00 — Introduction: The fear of imperfection and the pressure to be ready. 2:00–6:00 — The myth of perfection: Why we strive for it and how it holds us back. 6:00–10:00 — Perfection vs. progress: The dangers of waiting for readiness and the value of starting messy. 10:00–15:00 — Personal stories: Overcoming the fear of failure and embracing the messy middle. 15:00–20:00 — Setting big goals: The difference between outcome and process orientation. 20:00–25:00 — The myth of readiness: Taking action before you feel ready and the power of accountability. 25:00–30:00 — Redefining success: Consistency, effort, and the courage to continue. 30:00–35:00 — The emotional cost of perfectionism: Lost creativity, connection, and opportunities. 35:00–40:00 — The courage of “good enough”: Steps to living a messy, authentic life. 40:00–end — Conclusion: Permission to begin, embracing imperfection, and building your inner advocate.  

Episode 137: Where your Attention goes your Life Flows In this episode of "Your Inner Advocate," host Kimen Petersen explores the profound impact of attention on our lives. Drawing from personal experiences and insightful quotes, Kimen discusses how where we direct our focus shapes our reality, influences our emotions, and determines our outcomes. The episode delves into the role of the inner critic, the brain’s natural tendency to focus on threats, and the importance of consciously steering our attention toward what we truly want. Kimen offers practical steps for shifting focus, creating visual anchors, celebrating progress, and building supportive environments. Listeners are encouraged to become deliberate masters of their attention, moving from fear to possibility, and to celebrate every step forward on their journey. 0:00–1:00 — Introduction to the podcast and its purpose: inspiration, soulful insights, and meaningful life lessons. 1:00–3:00 — The central theme: "Where your attention goes, your life flows." The power of focus and how it shapes our experiences. 3:00–7:00 — The brain’s filtering process, the role of the inner critic, and why we often focus on threats or negativity. 7:00–12:00 — Personal stories of battling the inner critic, self-fulfilling loops, and the importance of changing perspective. 12:00–16:00 — Practical examples: mountain biking, skiing, and how focusing on what you fear can steer you into it. 16:00–20:00 — Steps to shift attention: get clear on what you want, create visual anchors, daily reminders, and celebrate progress. 20:00–25:00 — The importance of sharing your journey, building healthy obsessions, and letting your dreams take up space. 25:00–End — Final thoughts: consciously choosing where your focus goes, building your inner advocate, and a call to action for listeners.  

Episode 136: The Power of Your Story: How Changing Your Narrative Changes Your Life In this episode of "Your Inner Advocate," host Kimen Petersen explores the profound impact of the stories we tell ourselves. Through personal anecdotes, research, and practical steps, Kimen reveals how the inner critic can shape our lives with limiting beliefs, while the inner advocate empowers us to rewrite our narratives. Listeners are guided through the process of identifying old scripts, reframing events, and choosing empowering meanings. The episode emphasizes that we are not defined by what happens to us, but by the meaning we assign to those events. By becoming the narrator—and ultimately the hero—of our own stories, we can inspire ourselves and others, turning pain into purpose and setbacks into stepping stones. Timeline Summary     0:00 – 2:45Introduction to the power of narrative and the dangers of letting the inner critic control your story. 2:45 – 6:00How meaning, not events, shapes our lives. Examples of two people with similar backgrounds but different outcomes. 6:00 – 10:00Personal stories of redirection, failure as protection, and the importance of connecting the dots in a way that empowers. 10:00 – 15:00The pivotal shift from victim to narrator. How asking "What is this trying to teach me?" changes everything. 15:00 – 20:00Becoming the hero of your own story. Heroes are forged through adversity, not ease. 20:00 – 25:00The inner critic vs. the inner advocate. How to intentionally build the voice of your inner advocate. 25:00 – 30:00Five practical steps to rewrite your story: awareness, reframing, choosing empowerment, repetition, and letting go of limiting narratives. 30:00 – EndYour story as inspiration for yourself and others. The power of sharing your truth and becoming the author of your life. Closing thoughts and call to action.

Episode 135: Care Anyway: The Courage to Feel Deeply in a Numb World In this heartfelt episode of "Your Inner Advocate," host Kimen Petersen explores the often unspoken challenges and profound strengths of caring deeply in a world that sometimes glorifies detachment. Drawing from personal stories and soulful insights, Kimen discusses why feeling the weight of empathy is not a weakness but a sign of a vibrant, connected heart. The episode delves into the difference between sympathy, empathy, and compassion, the importance of boundaries, and how to care sustainably without losing yourself. Listeners are reminded that their sensitivity and emotional depth are gifts that create ripples of positive change, and that rest and self-care are essential parts of a caring life. The message is clear: when the world feels heavy, care anyway—because your care truly matters. Timeline Summary     Intro (0:00–1:07): Kimen introduces the podcast and sets the stage for a discussion about the courage to care deeply. The Cost and Gift of Caring (1:07–2:06): Explores how empathy and compassion come with emotional weight, but are rare gifts. Personal Reflections (2:06–3:07): Kimen shares personal experiences and why caring deeply is central to his identity. Why Caring Feels Heavy (3:07–4:57): Discusses the emotional toll of empathy and the misconception that heaviness means brokenness. Caring as a Superpower (4:57–7:00): Reframes deep feeling as a strength and the driving force behind positive change. Sympathy, Empathy, and Compassion (7:00–8:44): Differentiates between these concepts and highlights compassion as empathy in action. Boundaries and Self-Protection (10:00–12:30): Offers advice on setting boundaries to care without losing oneself. When Caring Hurts (12:30–15:00): Addresses the pain of caring for others and the importance of not shutting down emotionally. Resilience Through Caring (15:00–18:00): Explains how enduring emotional weight builds resilience and emotional endurance. You Are Enough (18:00–20:00): Encourages listeners to embrace their sensitivity and recognize their value. The Ripple Effect (20:00–22:00): Illustrates how small acts of care can have lasting, unseen impacts. Caring Sustainably (22:00–25:00): Emphasizes the importance of rest, self-care, and giving what you can. Closing Message (25:00–End): Kimen wraps up with a powerful reminder: care deeply, bravely, and wisely—your care matters.

Episode 134:  How 11 Seconds Can Transform Everything   In this episode of "Your Inner Advocate," host Kimen Petersen explores the profound impact of just 11 seconds—a seemingly insignificant sliver of time—on our lives. Through personal stories, neuroscience insights, and practical advice, Kimen reveals how 11 seconds can be the difference between fear and courage, self-doubt and self-trust, or missed opportunities and meaningful connections. Listeners are encouraged to embrace these micro-moments to build rapport, regulate emotions, and make life-changing decisions. The episode is a call to action: use the next 11 seconds to choose yourself, take a step forward, and become who you’re meant to be. = 0:00 – 1:05 — Introduction to the concept of 11 seconds and the podcast’s mission. 1:05 – 2:22 — The overlooked power of small moments and how they shape our lives. 2:22 – 4:00 — The science: how the brain makes decisions up to 11 seconds before we’re aware. 4:00 – 7:00 — Overcoming fear of judgment; most people only think about us for 11 seconds. 7:00 – 10:00 — Building rapport in the first 11 seconds: practical tips for connection. 10:00 – 13:00 — Emotional regulation: calming your system in 11 seconds with breath and grounding. 13:00 – 16:00 — The courage to act: how 11 seconds of bravery can change your life. 16:00 – 19:00 — The power of listening: pausing for 11 seconds to understand others and avoid misunderstandings. 19:00 – 22:00 — Perception of time vs. reality; using 11 seconds to make meaningful change. 22:00 – End — Final challenge: take the next 11 seconds to start something new and keep building your inner advocate.

Episode 133: You’ve Never Been This You Before: Embracing Growth and Change This episode is a motivational exploration of personal growth, resilience, and transformation. The host encourages listeners who may be feeling discouraged, doubtful, or behind, reminding them that every experience—good or bad—has contributed to their current strength and wisdom. Through powerful metaphors and personal anecdotes, the episode emphasizes that setbacks are not failures but opportunities for forging a stronger self. The message is clear: you are not the same person you were before, and every challenge has prepared you for your purpose. The host urges listeners to honor their journey, embrace change, and believe in their ability to rise and pursue their dreams. = Timeline Summary 0:00 – 0:45 — Introduction: Addressing self-doubt and the idea that you have never been this version of yourself before. 0:46 – 2:30 — The Power of Change: How every experience and challenge shapes you into someone stronger and wiser. 2:31 – 6:00 — Building Strength: Using metaphors like forging steel and athletic training to illustrate how adversity creates resilience. 6:01 – 10:00 — Lessons from Adversity: Stories of patients and friends who have turned pain into growth, and the importance of reframing setbacks. 10:01 – 15:00 — Honoring Your Journey: Recognizing the strength it took to overcome past storms and the importance of self-compassion. 15:01 – 20:00 — New Perspectives: How every lesson learned gives you a clearer vision and deeper self-awareness. 20:01 – 25:00 — Embracing New Beginnings: The difference between starting over and starting from experience, and why beginnings are powerful. 25:01 – 30:00 — Purpose and Possibility: The idea that everything you’ve gone through has prepared you for your purpose, and the importance of believing in yourself. 30:01 – End — Final Encouragement: Letting go of old fears, focusing on possibility, and stepping into the life you’re meant to live. Closing remarks and call to action.  

Episode 132: Falling Apart to Fall Together: Embracing the Power of Rebirth   In this episode of "Your Inner Advocate," host Kimen Petersen explores the transformative power of falling apart and how it can lead to personal growth and self-discovery. Drawing from personal experience and soulful insights, Kimen discusses the fear and pain of unraveling, the necessity of letting go of old identities, and the liberation that comes from embracing change. Through honest storytelling, Kimen shares a pivotal life moment—hitting rock bottom and rebuilding from the ground up—illustrating how breakdowns can become breakthroughs. Listeners are encouraged to trust their inner wisdom, reframe adversity, and recognize that falling apart is often the first step toward falling together into a more authentic, fulfilling life. = 00:00–00:40 — Introduction to the podcast and its purpose: inspiration, soulful insights, and meaningful life lessons. 00:41–01:45 — The theme: sometimes you have to fall apart to fall back together. The fear and stigma of unraveling. 01:46–03:00 — Challenging the idea that falling apart is failure; reframing it as the beginning of something new. 03:01–05:00 — The necessity of letting go of old roles, expectations, and identities to make space for growth. 05:01–07:00 — The emotional process: feeling lost, facing pain, and the importance of feeling your way through. 07:01–09:00 — The wisdom in adversity: how challenges build strength, resilience, and clarity. 09:01–11:00 — Personal story: Kimen’s experience with burnout, a health scare, and the decision to change direction. 11:01–13:00 — Hitting rock bottom, quitting a job, and the slow process of rebuilding a new life. 13:01–15:00 — The gradual return to self: small signs of healing, choosing alignment, and rediscovering self-worth. 15:01–17:00 — Embracing the rebirth: trusting yourself, speaking your truth, and living authentically. 17:01–End — Final reflections: every breakdown contains the seeds of a breakthrough. Encouragement to keep reframing challenges and building your inner advocate.

Episode 131: Change the Way You Listen, Change Your World In this episode of "Your Inner Advocate," host Kimen Petersen explores the transformative power of changing the way we listen. Drawing from personal stories and thoughtful insights, Kimen discusses how our perceptions, emotional filters, and past experiences shape what we hear in conversations. He introduces the concept of "listening lenses"—the invisible biases and beliefs that color our interpretation of others' words. Through practical tools and real-life examples, listeners are encouraged to assume positive intent, seek the gold in every conversation, identify others' "languages of love," and approach interactions with curiosity. The episode emphasizes that by shifting our listening habits, we can deepen relationships, reduce conflict, and foster greater understanding and compassion in our lives. = 00:00 – Introduction to the podcast and its purpose. 00:40 – The impact of perception: "Change the way you look at things, the things you look at change." 01:08 – The active process of listening and how relationships affect what we hear. 02:24 – How our memories, beliefs, and emotional wounds filter our listening. 04:00 – The concept of confirmation bias and emotional filters in communication. 06:00 – The power of meaning-making and the realization that we can change our internal narrative. 08:00 – The importance of steering our own ship by changing how we listen. 10:00 – Emotional confirmation bias and inherited "languages of love." 13:00 – The quote: "We don't see things as they are, we see them as we are." 15:00 – Listening through emotional fragments and narratives from the past. 17:00 – The role of attention and emotional lenses in shaping our experience. 20:00 – Family dynamics and why advice from loved ones can feel more charged. 23:00 – The only thing we can control is our internal world and reactions. 25:00 – The "coat" metaphor: trying on new ways of listening. 28:00 – The transformative power of assuming positive intent in conversations. 32:00 – Listening for wisdom and value beneath the surface. 35:00 – Understanding others' "languages of love" and translating intention. 38:00 – The four practical listening lenses: Assume positive intent Listen for gold Identify their language of love Get curious 45:00 – Personal stories illustrating the impact of reframing how we listen. 50:00 – The benefits of shifting from reacting to understanding and connecting. 53:00 – Closing thoughts: building your inner advocate and changing your experience by changing how you listen. End – Outro and call to action.

Episode 130: Try again Anyway!: The Real Secret to success In this episode of "Your Inner Advocate," host Kimen Petersen explores the transformative power of persistence. Drawing from personal experience and motivational insights, Kimen emphasizes that the true differentiator between those who succeed and those who don’t isn’t talent, luck, or timing—it’s the willingness to try again, even in the face of failure, fear, or exhaustion. Through stories, quotes, and practical advice, listeners are encouraged to nurture their dreams, embrace setbacks as part of the journey, and keep moving forward—no matter how many times they stumble. The episode is a heartfelt call to action for anyone on the verge of giving up, reminding them that resilience and repeated effort are the keys to fulfillment and success. = Timeline: 0:00 – 0:40 — Introduction to the podcast and its mission: inspiration, soulful insights, and meaningful life lessons. 0:41 – 1:07 — The central theme: the difference between those who make it and those who don’t is simply trying again. 1:08 – 2:30 — Addressing listeners who feel like giving up; affirming that their dreams are meant for them. 2:31 – 3:10 — Personal story: Failing a crucial exam, feeling defeated, and the struggle with imposter syndrome. 3:11 – 4:00 — The lesson: Persistence matters more than effort; the only way to guarantee failure is to give up. 4:01 – 5:00 — Why trying again works: Success is not linear; resilience is key. 5:01 – 7:00 — Dealing with lack of results: Staying motivated when progress is invisible, and the importance of perseverance. 7:01 – 9:00 — Facing fear: Understanding fear as a signpost for growth, and how courage is acting despite fear. 9:01 – 11:00 — Overcoming injury and setbacks: Starting again from experience, not from scratch. 11:01 – 12:00 — The importance of rest: Rest as a strategy, not a sign of weakness. 12:01 – 13:30 — Protecting your dream: Nurturing and safeguarding your aspirations through tough times. 13:31 – 15:00 — Final encouragement: Keep trying, even when progress is slow or invisible; your future self is cheering you on. 15:01 – End — Closing thoughts: Gratitude for listeners, call to share the episode, and a reminder to keep building your inner advocate.

Episode 129 Trusting Your Inner Advocate: How to Hear and Follow Intuition In this episode of "Your Inner Advocate," host Kimen Petersen explores the nature of intuition—demystifying it as an innate, accessible part of everyone’s experience rather than a mystical gift. Drawing from personal stories and professional practice, Kimen discusses how intuition manifests as subtle nudges and quiet guidance, often drowned out by the noise of daily life, fear, and self-doubt. The episode emphasizes the importance of stillness, self-awareness, and learning to distinguish intuition from the inner critic. Through anecdotes and practical insights, listeners are encouraged to trust their inner wisdom, embrace discomfort as a catalyst for growth, and recognize repeating life patterns as invitations to listen more deeply to their intuition. The episode closes with a call to cultivate one’s “inner advocate” and live with greater authenticity and clarity. = 00:00 – 01:00: Introduction to the podcast and host; setting the tone for inspiration and self-discovery. 01:00 – 02:00: Defining intuition—not as magic, but as a lived, everyday experience. 02:00 – 05:00: How intuition works beneath conscious awareness; the body and nervous system as intuitive instruments. 05:00 – 10:00: Personal stories from Kimen’s manual therapy practice—learning to trust subtle cues and the consequences of ignoring them. 10:00 – 15:00: Intuition in life outside the clinic; lessons from ignoring or following inner nudges. 15:00 – 20:00: The inevitability of life’s lessons and the universe’s persistent guidance; a pivotal personal turning point. 20:00 – 25:00: The role of noise, busyness, and overstimulation in blocking intuition; the necessity of quiet and stillness. 25:00 – 30:00: Practical metaphors and exercises for observing thoughts and cultivating mental clarity. 30:00 – 35:00: Addressing skepticism about intuition; stillness as clarity, not laziness. 35:00 – 40:00: Recognizing repeating patterns as intuitive guidance; overcoming the inner critic and negative self-talk. 40:00 – End: Final reflections on intuition as a gentle, persistent guide; encouragement to keep building one’s inner advocate and trust the journey.

Episode 128: Beyond Control: Lessons in Surrender and Self-Mastery This episode of "Your Inner Advocate" with Kimen Petersen explores the concept of the illusion of control. Kimen discusses how much of our stress and disappointment comes from trying to control things outside our power—other people, outcomes, and the future. Through personal stories and thoughtful insights, the episode encourages listeners to let go of the need for control and instead focus on what they can influence: their responses, perspectives, and preparation for life’s uncertainties. Kimen shares practical advice on building resilience, maintaining healthy routines, and finding peace through surrender rather than control. Timeline Summary 00:00 – 00:43: Introduction to the podcast and today’s topic: the illusion of control. 00:44 – 01:45: The stress of trying to control people, outcomes, and the future. 01:46 – 03:20: The futility of controlling others; personal reflections on letting go. 03:21 – 05:00: Accepting that we can’t control what happens to us; learning to respond with grace. 05:01 – 06:20: The inevitability of change and disappointment; embracing life’s unpredictability. 06:21 – 08:00: What we can control: preparation, routines, and self-care. 08:01 – 10:00: The importance of mental and emotional resilience; building supportive communities. 10:01 – 12:00: Controlling our reactions and the stories we tell ourselves; shifting perspective. 12:01 – 14:00: Finding meaning in challenges; letting go to gain peace. 14:01 – End: Closing thoughts, encouragement to share the episode, and podcast outro.    

Episode 127: What’s In Your Cup?: Understanding Our Emotional Reactions In this heartfelt episode, the host reflects on a powerful story about a professor’s lesson: “You spill what’s in your cup.” Using this metaphor, the episode explores how our internal emotions—anger, sadness, grace, or compassion—are revealed when life “bumps” us. The host shares personal anecdotes about moments of anger, the roots of emotional responses, and the journey from self-criticism to self-acceptance. Through stories of childhood, family, and personal growth, listeners are invited to examine what fills their own cup and how to intentionally cultivate peace, kindness, and love. The episode concludes with a message of hope: healing is not about perfection, but about awareness, presence, and filling our lives with love. = 0:00 – 2:00: Introduction to the episode’s theme—being solution-based, curiosity, and a story that changes perspective. 2:00 – 5:00: Introduction to Sam Dema, a motivational speaker, and the story of the professor’s “cup” metaphor. 5:00 – 8:00: Reflection on the metaphor—what’s in your cup spills out when life bumps you; personal examples of anger and irritation. 8:00 – 12:00: Stories illustrating how emotional responses reveal what’s inside; the difference between reacting with anger or grace. 12:00 – 18:00: Personal journey—recognizing buried anger, the process of self-examination, and the realization that anger often masks sadness. 18:00 – 25:00: Childhood stories and the roots of emotional patterns; the concept that “mad is sad’s bodyguard.” 25:00 – 32:00: The process of facing and accepting anger, moving from resistance to acceptance, and the cathartic experience of expressing emotions. 32:00 – 38:00: The transformation that comes from acceptance—developing empathy, compassion, and self-love through adversity. 38:00 – End: Final reflections—choosing what to fill your cup with, the importance of awareness and presence, and a closing message to listeners about healing and love.

Episode 126: Perfectly Imperfect: Embracing Your Flaws as Your Superpower In this episode of "Your Inner Advocate," host Kimen Petersen explores the transformative idea that our imperfections are not flaws to be fixed, but essential parts of our purpose. Through personal stories and examples from elite athletes like Usain Bolt and Michael Phelps, Kimen illustrates how embracing and integrating our differences can lead to authenticity, resilience, and fulfillment. The episode encourages listeners to stop fighting their perceived shortcomings, feel their emotions fully, and recognize the unique strengths that arise from their challenges. Kimen shares his own journey with trauma, introversion, and dyslexia, showing how acceptance led to personal growth and a deeper connection with others. The episode concludes with practical advice on transitioning from resistance to acceptance, encouraging listeners to view their imperfections as a compass guiding them toward their true path.  = 0:00 – 1:00: Introduction to the podcast and today’s theme: embracing imperfections. 1:00 – 3:00: The concept of “what we resist, persists” and reframing flaws as integral to our wholeness. 3:00 – 7:00: Stories of athletes (Usain Bolt, Michael Phelps, Paralympians) whose so-called imperfections became their strengths. 7:00 – 12:00: Kimen’s personal journey—childhood trauma, introversion, and dyslexia—and how acceptance transformed these challenges into assets. 12:00 – 15:00: Reflections on toxic masculinity, redefining manhood, and embracing empathy and kindness. 15:00 – 20:00: Practical steps for listeners: identifying, accepting, and integrating imperfections; using them as fuel for growth. 20:00 – End: Closing thoughts—imperfections as a compass, encouragement to embrace one’s whole self, and a call to action for listeners.

Episode 125 From Inner Critic to Inner Advocate: Embracing Kindness Over Criticism In this episode of "Your Inner Advocate," host Kimen Petersen explores the theme of self-compassion, especially for high achievers and those who tend to be hard on themselves. Kimen shares personal stories and insights about the dangers of relentless self-criticism, the origins of our inner critic, and the importance of replacing harshness with kindness. The episode encourages listeners to recognize that they are always doing their best with the knowledge and resources they have at any given moment. Kimen offers practical advice and affirmations for shifting from self-judgment to self-encouragement, emphasizing that true growth and fulfillment come from compassion, not criticism. The episode closes with a gentle challenge to practice daily self-kindness and to build an internal advocate that supports a life of authenticity and joy. = 00:00 – 00:40 — Introduction to the podcast and its mission. 00:41 – 01:57 — The core message: Stop being so hard on yourself; you’re always doing your best. 01:58 – 03:19 — Understanding that your best varies day to day; wisdom is doing better when you know better. 03:20 – 04:04 — The pitfalls of using self-criticism as a motivator; short-term gains vs. long-term costs. 04:05 – 05:38 — The alternative: coaching yourself with kindness and turning the inner critic into an inner coach. 05:39 – 07:19 — How family and upbringing shape our self-talk; evolving from inherited patterns of tough love. 07:20 – 09:45 — The automatic nature of the inner critic and the power to choose self-compassion over self-judgment. 09:46 – 13:23 — Personal stories of overcoming self-loathing, learning from dyslexia, and shifting from shame to encouragement. 13:24 – 15:10 — The importance of reframing challenges as lessons and using them to fuel growth. 15:11 – 17:10 — Practical advice: treat yourself as you would a close friend, defend against negative self-talk, and practice daily affirmations. 17:11 – 19:35 — Closing thoughts: the impact of self-love on your life and relationships, and a final encouragement to lighten up on yourself. 19:36 – End — Outro, call to action, and gratitude for listeners.