The Connected Community: Exploring Possibility

Navigating Perimenopause, Menopause, and Beyond with Ease

In this episode of The Connected Community: Exploring Possibility, Nicky Yazbeck is joined by Sarah Haas, a Women’s Weight Release & Body Love Coach, Integrative Nutrition Health Coach, Certified Personal Trainer, and yoga instructor. Sarah brings her deep expertise and personal journey as a fifty-something single mom and breast cancer survivor to a conversation about supporting women through midlife, menopause, and beyond.
 
Together, they explore the physical and emotional changes that come with menopause—particularly hormonal fluctuations, weight gain, and the impact of stress. Sarah shares insights into the importance of strength training, adequate protein intake, and mindful nutrition to maintain muscle mass, boost metabolism, and support overall well-being. The conversation also touches on the role of self-compassion, body acceptance, and navigating dietary challenges like dairy sensitivity. Sarah offers practical tips for reading food labels and making empowered, nourishing choices that align with the body’s evolving needs.
 
** Side note: While recording this podcast, I was struggling with allergies and the massive amounts of pollen in the air, so please ignore the extremely red eyes, random tearing, and stuffiness! **
 
 
Takeaways:
Many women struggle with hormonal imbalances during menopause.
Nutrition plays a vital role in managing health during menopause.
Weight gain can be rapid and unexpected during midlife.
Maintaining muscle mass is crucial for metabolism as we age.
Stress significantly affects hormonal balance and weight.
Strength training is essential for women, especially in midlife.
HIIT workouts can efficiently combine strength and cardio.
Women often under-consume protein, impacting muscle health.
Protein is necessary for muscle repair and growth.
A balanced diet and exercise can alleviate menopause symptoms.
A good starting point for protein intake is 0.8 grams per pound of body weight.
Protein helps keep you satiated longer than carbohydrates.
Fiber and protein together can help control hunger throughout the day.
Nuts are primarily fats, not proteins, and should be consumed in moderation.
It's essential to balance fat intake with protein and fiber for overall health.
Dietary trends often swing between extremes, leading to confusion.
Vegetables are crucial for a balanced diet; aim for 5-7 servings a day.
Dairy can be hard to digest for many; listen to your body.
Reading food labels is essential to avoid misleading claims.
Body acceptance is vital as we age; focus on nourishing and respecting your body.
 
 
Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
support@nickyYyoga.com
 
Connect with Sarah:
https://sarahhaaswellness.com/
https://www.facebook.com/sarahhaaswellness/
 https://www.instagram.com/sarahhaaswellness/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCans4T9oK_RYiq9YBumOTZA
https://www.buzzsprout.com/1922289
https://sarahhaaswellness.lpages.co/rev-up-your-metabolism-guide/
 
Keywords: hormones, nutrition, wellness, strength training, protein, health, women, weight gain, stress, nutrition, protein, satiety, dietary trends, vegetables, hormonal health, dairy, food labels, body acceptance, aging, menopause, perimenopause
 

Religious Trauma: Religion vs. Spirituality

 
In this episode of The Connected Community Podcast, host Nicky Yazbeck welcomes transformational coach and Self-Care Alchemist, Samantha Gregory, for a powerful conversation about religious trauma and the path to spiritual freedom. With a background that includes surviving a dysfunctional family, cult upbringing, domestic abuse, divorce, bankruptcy, and early menopause from chronic stress, Samantha has turned her pain into purpose. She now teaches women how to reclaim their well-being through radical self-care, feminine embodiment, and sovereign leadership.
 
Samantha shares her personal story of growing up in a restrictive, fear-based religious environment and the impact it had on her sense of self, mental health, and identity. She offers an honest look at how religious control can manifest as trauma and the inner work required to heal from it. Through her journey of leaving the church and reclaiming her spirituality, Samantha discovered the difference between externally imposed beliefs and an internally guided spiritual path. Together, Nicky and Samantha explore the nuances of family dynamics, the courage to question long-held beliefs, and the role of self-care and inner wisdom in rebuilding a life of authenticity, sovereignty, and self-acceptance.
 
 
Takeaways
Religious trauma is defined by control and manipulation.
Fear-based teachings can lead to mental health issues.
Separation from religion can lead to self-acceptance.
Spirituality offers freedom and personal growth.
Leaving toxic environments is essential for well-being.
Community can be found outside of traditional religious structures.
Self-worth is not determined by religious dogma.
Miseducation in religion can hinder personal development.
The journey to spirituality can be challenging but rewarding.
Recognizing one's own power is key to spiritual freedom. There are phases of transition when leaving a religion.
Internal validation is crucial for self-acceptance.
Going no contact can be necessary for healing.
Family dynamics can complicate personal growth.
Reframing relationships with family can aid in healing.
Questioning beliefs is essential for personal growth.
Self-care is foundational for transformation.
Trusting your own voice is vital in the healing process.
Journaling can help clarify thoughts and feelings.
Suffering is not a requirement in spirituality.
 
 
Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
support@nickyYyoga.com
 
Connect with Samantha:
SamanthaGregory.com
SamanthaGregory.com/links
blyss.substack.com
 
 
Keywords: religious trauma, spirituality, self-acceptance, fear-based control, toxic environments, mental health, church, personal growth, community, freedom, religion, spirituality, self-discovery, trauma, family dynamics, personal growth, critical thinking, inner wisdom, self-care, healing

Healing with Somatic Therapy: The Body Remembers

In this episode of The Connected Community Podcast, host Nicky Yazbeck sits down with Shena Jade Jensen, a licensed therapist and relationship coach with over 15 years of experience. Shena brings a deep, body-oriented perspective to her work, drawing from extensive training in somatic modalities including Somatic Experiencing and Hakomi.
 
Together, Nicky and Shena dive into the world of somatic therapy, exploring how the body holds emotional experiences and the powerful role present-moment awareness plays in healing. The conversation touches on how trauma shows up in the nervous system, the importance of grounding and embodiment, and why a trauma-informed approach is essential to effective therapeutic work.
 
Shena also offers insight into the distinctions between coaching and therapy, and the value of having professional guidance when working with deep emotional patterns. Throughout the episode, Nicky and Shena illuminate the layered nature of healing and the importance of connection, mindfulness, and compassion on the path toward emotional well-being.
 
Takeaways:
Somatic therapy focuses on the mind-body connection.
Memories can be stored in the body as tension and pain.
Trauma can manifest in small, everyday experiences.
Talking about trauma has limitations; somatic therapy addresses the body.
Dissociation is a common response to trauma.
Present moment awareness can help in processing trauma.
Somatic release can take many forms, including shaking and crying.
Professional guidance is crucial in trauma work.
Healing involves rewriting patterns in the nervous system.
Grounding through the body is essential for healing.
Embodiment leads to empowerment and self-acceptance.
Changing posture can transform self-perception.
Trauma-informed therapy is crucial for effective healing.
Therapists must be trained to hold space for clients' emotions.
Mindfulness practices are foundational in somatic therapy.
Repatterning thoughts requires a complex understanding of trauma.
Healing is a layered process that unfolds over time.
Connection with others enhances the healing journey.
Practicing self-compassion is vital for emotional growth.
 
Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
support@nickyYyoga.com
 
Connect with Shena:
https://bayfamilycounseling.com/
https://www.instagram.com/themarriagetherapist/
https://www.facebook.com/ShenaWakeUpInLove
 
 
Tags: somatic therapy, trauma, Hakomi, emotional healing, body awareness, mindfulness, dissociation, personal growth, therapy techniques, mental health, somatic work, overcoming trauma, grounding, embodiment, healing, empowerment, therapy, coaching, emotional processing

Brainspotting: A Therapy Modality for Processing Deep Emotions

In this episode of the Connected Community Podcast, Nicky Yazbeck interviews Nichole Jones about brain spotting, a therapeutic technique that evolved from EMDR. Nichole Jones, LPC is a Certified Brainspotting Practitioner (soon to be consultant), Ayurveda+Yoga Therapist, and Money mindset coach who has been practicing brainspotting for the last decade. Nichole explains the origins of brain spotting, its process, and how it differs from traditional therapy methods. The conversation delves into the importance of body awareness, the client-centered approach in therapy, and the use of grounding techniques to manage activation during sessions. Nichole emphasizes that clients do not need to recount traumatic stories, making brain spotting a gentle yet effective method for processing trauma and anxiety. In this conversation, Nichole Jones shares her insights on brain spotting, a therapeutic technique for addressing trauma and emotional distress. She discusses the importance of understanding each client's unique needs and experiences, emphasizing that while brain spotting can be beneficial for many, it may not work for everyone. Nichole also reflects on her personal journey with brain spotting, revealing how it helped her navigate postpartum anxiety and other challenges. The discussion highlights the significance of small T traumas and the role of licensed therapists versus coaches in facilitating healing. Ultimately, the conversation underscores the necessity of support and self-awareness in the therapeutic process.
 
Takeaways:
Brain spotting evolved from EMDR and focuses on body awareness.
The technique was discovered by David Grand while working with athletes.
Brain spotting allows clients to process trauma without reliving the story.
It emphasizes a client-centered approach, adapting to individual needs.
Grounding techniques are essential for managing client activation.
Clients can find their own 'brain spots' for processing emotions.
Therapists follow the client's lead during sessions, known as 'the tail of the comet.'
The technique can be used for various issues, including anxiety and trauma.
Clients do not need to have a detailed story to benefit from brain spotting.
Everybody's a candidate for brain spotting.
Small T traumas can have a significant impact.
Healing often occurs between therapy sessions.
Support is crucial during the healing process.
Licensed therapists may offer more comprehensive care.
Coaches can be effective if they have the right training.
Self-awareness is key in therapy.
 
Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
support@nickyYyoga.com
 
Connect with Nichole:
www.nicholejones.com
www.awakened-wealth.com
https://www.instagram.com/therealnicholejones/
 
 
Keywords: brain spotting, EMDR, therapy, trauma, mental health, anxiety, counseling, healing, mindfulness, body awareness, mindfulness, emotional healing, coaching, licensed therapist, personal growth

Ceremonial Cacao: Heart Opening Medicine from Indigenous Cultures to Us

In this episode of the Connected Community Podcast, Nicky Yazbeck interviews Charlotte Nieuwenhuis about the profound relationship humans can cultivate with cacao. Charlotte shares her journey of connecting with cacao as a spiritual teacher, the differences between ceremonial cacao and commercial chocolate, and the importance of ethical sourcing and sustainability in the cacao industry. The conversation delves into the fermentation process, regional variations, and the significance of honoring the ancestral roots of cacao. Ultimately, the episode emphasizes cacao's role in reconnecting humanity with nature and fostering a deeper understanding of our relationship with the earth. In this enlightening conversation, Charlotte Nieuwenhuis shares her profound experiences with cacao, exploring its spiritual significance, cultural reverence, and its role in healing and women's health. She emphasizes the importance of reconnecting with nature and the wisdom of indigenous practices, while also addressing the commercialization of cacao ceremonies in the West. The discussion highlights the continuous journey of learning and the messages received from the cacao spirit, advocating for a deeper understanding and respect for this sacred plant.
 
Takeaways:
Cacao serves as a spiritual teacher and a connection to the earth.
Ceremonial cacao differs significantly from commercial chocolate.
The fermentation process enhances the nutritional value of cacao.
Regional variations in cacao affect its flavor and quality.
Cultivating a relationship with cacao requires intention and openness.
Ethical sourcing is crucial for sustainable cacao production.
Honoring the farmers and indigenous cultures is essential.
Cacao ceremonies can deepen our connection to nature.
Cacao is a living being that offers wisdom and teachings.
 
Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
support@nickyYyoga.com
 
Connect with Charlotte:
https://heart-to-earth.com/
https://www.instagram.com/heart.toearth?igsh=MTB1c3hjMW1nd29uNg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlotte-nieuwenhuis-30b6b424b?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
 
Tags : cacao, chocolate, ceremonial cacao, fermentation, sustainability, indigenous cultures, cacao ceremonies, ethical sourcing, plant medicine, heart opening, Cacao, Heart Opening, Spirituality, Nature Connection, Women's Health, Indigenous Wisdom, Healing, Mindfulness, Cultural Reverence
 

EMDR: Resolving Childhood Trauma

In this episode of The Connected Community Podcast, host Nicky Yazbeck speaks with Tiffany Freer, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and EMDRIA Approved Trainer and Consultant. Tiffany shares her deep expertise in using EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy with children and adolescents, drawing from her experience in community mental health and the foster care system. Their conversation explores how trauma, both big and small, can impact a child’s development and emotional regulation, often leading to internalized beliefs of self-blame and unworthiness. Tiffany discusses the nuances of adapting EMDR for young clients, the importance of building positive memory networks, and how therapeutic storytelling can support healing, particularly for adopted children. Together, Nicky and Tiffany unpack the power of EMDR to address complex trauma and the vital role of a skilled, attuned therapist in guiding children and families toward lasting transformation.
 
Takeaways:
Childhood trauma can have lasting effects into adulthood.
EMDR requires modifications when working with children.
Concrete tools are essential for engaging children in therapy.
Children can experience dysregulation similar to adults during therapy.
Small traumas can have significant impacts on self-worth.
Memories are stored state-dependently, affecting emotional responses.
EMDR helps synthesize maladaptive and adaptive memory networks.
Building positive memory networks is crucial in therapy.
Therapeutic storytelling can be effective for adopted children.
Many people experience trauma that they may not remember until later in life.
Therapists should not act as fact-checkers but rather support clients in their journey.
Children often internalize negative experiences, leading to self-blame.
EMDR helps clients process trauma by alternating between past and present memories.
The effectiveness of EMDR can vary based on the individual's prior experiences with trauma.
Finding a qualified EMDR therapist is crucial for effective treatment.
Therapists should be aware of the importance of resourcing clients before diving into trauma work.
Children's memory networks are shorter, allowing for quicker reprocessing in therapy.
Building a trusting relationship with clients is essential for effective therapy.
Therapists must accept the limitations of their role in a child's healing process.
 
 
 
Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
support@nickyYyoga.com
 
Connect with Tiffany:
https://greenwoodcounselingcenter.com/
https://emdroftherockies.com/
 
Keywords: EMDR, child therapy, trauma, mental health, childhood trauma, EMDR consultant, therapeutic techniques, emotional regulation, memory processing, attachment theory, childhood, therapy, mental health, healing, memory, internalization, therapist, counseling

Art Therapy: Healing Through Creativity

In this episode of The Connected Community Podcast, Christine Peine joins us to explore the healing potential of therapeutic art. Christine is a Holistic Business Coach and Therapeutic Art Facilitator who supports entrepreneurs feeling stuck or creatively drained, helping them reconnect with their true selves and rebuild their businesses with clarity and purpose. With a Master’s in Art Therapy, Christine integrates polyvagal theory, somatic practices, and parts work into her unique approach.
 
She shares her personal journey from burnout to discovering the power of art as a tool for healing and transformation. We dive into how creativity, body awareness, and nervous system regulation work together to support emotional well-being. Christine also guides listeners through an accessible art exercise, inviting connection with the inner child and the body’s innate wisdom. This inspiring conversation offers a fresh perspective on creativity—not as a talent, but as a vital part of healing and self-discovery.
 
Takeaways:
Therapeutic art is about expressing inner feelings, not creating perfect art.
Polyvagal Theory explains how our nervous system affects our emotions.
The body holds wisdom that can guide us in healing.
Art can help make subconscious feelings visible.
Engaging in creative practices can reconnect us with our inner child.
Movement and breath are essential for regulating our nervous system.
Therapeutic art can be done with simple materials at home.
Self-discovery through art is a personal journey.
Creativity is vital for mental health at any age.
Listening to our intuition can lead to meaningful creative expression.
 
Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
support@nickyYyoga.com
 
Connect with Christine:
https://christinepeine.com/
https://www.christinepeine.com/courses/conscious-clarity-practice
https://www.instagram.com/create.with.christine/
 
Keywords: art therapy, therapeutic art, polyvagal theory, self-discovery, inner child, creative expression, mental health, emotional regulation, healing through art, mindfulness

Increase Intimacy in the Bedroom: Balancing the Masculine and Feminine

In this episode of The Connected Community Podcast, Nicky Yazbeck welcomes Nicola Navon, a relationship communication and leadership coach, to explore the magnetic dance between masculine and feminine energies and how they shape our most intimate connections. Drawing from over a decade of experience in psychology and communication, Nicola shares how her signature framework, The Union Method, helps individuals and couples cultivate deeper connection, trust, and fulfillment—both in the bedroom and beyond.
 
Together, Nicky and Nicola dive into the often-unspoken dynamics that influence desire, vulnerability, and the expression of needs. They unpack the power of embodied communication, the role of polarity in creating passion, and the ways in which our attachment styles influence the way we relate. This heart-centered conversation invites listeners to reflect on the inner balance of their own masculine and feminine energies, offering a fresh perspective on cultivating intimacy, reigniting passion, and creating relationships that feel whole, alive, and deeply connected.
 
Takeaways
Understanding the balance of masculine and feminine energies is crucial for deeper intimacy.
It only takes one person to understand energetics to shift the relationship dynamics.
Vulnerability is key in expressing desires and needs in relationships.
Women often need to step into their feminine to allow men to step into their masculine.
Communication should be playful and inviting rather than controlling or nagging.
Expressing desires requires a strong masculine core to voice them effectively.
The fear of rejection impacts both men and women in expressing intimacy.
Creating passion involves inviting partners to take the lead in a subtle way.
Seduction can be a powerful tool in igniting desire in relationships.
Acknowledging and appreciating partners' efforts fosters connection and balance.
Finding healthy attachment starts with self.
Navigating relationship dynamics requires understanding of attachment styles.
Loneliness is a common human experience that needs addressing.
Passion thrives on polarity and contrast in relationships.
Creating excitement in long-term relationships is essential.
Communication is key to intimacy and connection.
Expressing needs is crucial to avoid resentment.
Wholeness in oneself is necessary for healthy relationships.
The process of intimacy should be prioritized over end goals.
Exploring new experiences together can reignite passion.
 
 
Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
support@nickyYyoga.com
 
Connect with Nicola:
https://www.nicolanavon.com/
https://www.instagram.com/nicolanavon/
 
Keywords: masculine, feminine, intimacy, relationships, communication, balance, passion, dynamics, energetics, connection, attachment styles, relationship dynamics, intimacy, communication, passion, wholeness, masculine and feminine energy, loneliness, fulfillment, reigniting passion
 

Spiritual Bypassing: A Deep Dive

Together, Nicky and Sarah explore the often-unspoken side of the spiritual and healing world such as the seductive nature of quick fixes, the glorification of transcendence at the expense of the human experience, and the shadow side of placing mentors on pedestals. They shine a light on the ways spiritual bypassing can subtly undermine genuine growth and emphasize the importance of staying anchored in authenticity, humility, and discernment.
 
The conversation dives into red flags to be aware of in spiritual teachers and healing practitioners, including over-promising results, lack of transparency, and disconnection from their own humanity. They unpack the marketing of transformation at retreats, encouraging listeners to trust their inner knowing, honor their intuition, and approach healing not as something to be outsourced, but as a sacred collaboration between self and guide.
 
Through this rich dialogue, Nicky and Sarah advocate for a return to self-honoring, embodied truth, and the slow, often messy, but deeply rewarding path of healing. Whether you’re just beginning your personal growth journey or navigating the complexities of finding the right support, this episode invites you into a space of reflection, empowerment, and deeper connection to your own wisdom.
 
 
Takeaways:
Spiritual bypassing can be a form of spiritual narcissism.
The desire for quick fixes can lead to avoidance of deeper work.
The journey of healing is more important than the destination.
Humility is a crucial stage in the process of enlightenment.
It's essential to run potential mentors through your own heart filter.
Over-promising in mentorship is a significant red flag.
Look for alignment between a teacher's words and actions.
Avoid placing mentors on pedestals to prevent disillusionment.
Effective teachers empower others to recognize their own light.
The marketing of spiritual experiences can often be misleading.
The intention behind seeking help is crucial for effective healing.
Collaboration in healing is essential; it's not just outsourcing.
Trusting your instincts is vital in any healing journey.
Red flags include guarantees of healing or fixed outcomes.
Empowerment comes from recognizing one's own healing capabilities.
Healing is a layered process that varies for each individual.
Self-honoring is key; it's okay to step back if needed.
There are many paths to healing; no one way is the only way.
Relatability and authenticity in practitioners are important.
 
Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
support@nickyYyoga.com
 
Connect with Sarah:
https://www.sparkflc.com/
https://www.facebook.com/SarahSparkFLC/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfymRND2sFqBEuWET4RPETg
 
 
Keywords: spiritual bypassing, mentorship, red flags, plant medicine, healing, spiritual growth, self-awareness, ego, transformation, community, healing, practitioners, collaboration, empowerment, trust, self-honoring, intentions
 

Exploring Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy

In this episode of The Connected Community Podcast, Nicky Yazbeck sits down with Crystal Hines to explore the transformative world of Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy. Together, they unpack the foundational concepts of IFS, from the protective roles of managers and firefighters to the tender vulnerabilities held by exiles. Crystal shares her personal healing journey with both IFS and EMDR, offering insight into the deep inner work that fosters emotional resilience and transformation.
The conversation weaves through the complexities of shame, the significance of self-energy, and the power of embracing all parts of oneself. Crystal and Nicky also dive into the spiritual dimensions of IFS, the influence of generational trauma, and the growing intersection of plant medicine and therapy. With compassion and clarity, they highlight the importance of therapist self-work and the healing potential found in external relationships. This episode is an invitation to move toward a more self-led life, grounded in curiosity, connection, and wholeness.
 
Takeaways:
IFS is a therapeutic model created by Richard Schwartz.
Protective parts develop to help us function in the world.
Managers are proactive parts that prevent vulnerability.
Firefighters are reactive parts that shut down feelings.
Exiles carry the pain of past experiences.
Shame often stems from a lack of co-regulation in childhood.
Healing involves building a relationship with self-energy.
Therapists must do their own work to support clients effectively.
Self-energy is essential for healing and connection.
Living a self-led life means embracing all parts of self.
The best way to build access to self energy is to be with your parts.
Triggers can be seen as opportunities for self-reflection and growth.
Skepticism about parts work often stems from a part of the individual.
Generational trauma can be addressed through personal healing work.
Plant medicine may help protective parts feel safe enough to heal.
IFS emphasizes the importance of external relationships in healing.
Finding a qualified IFS therapist is crucial for effective therapy.
 
Connect with me:
https://nickyYyoga.com
https://www.youtube.com/@TheConnectedCommunity
support@nickyYyoga.com
 
Connect with Crystal:
https://www.aligntherapyandconsultation.com/
https://www.aligntherapyandconsultation.com/ifs-emdr-certification
 
 
 
Internal Family Systems, IFS, therapy, trauma, self-energy, shame, mental health, EMDR, parts work, healing, IFS, self energy, parts work, triggers, generational trauma, epigenetics, plant medicine