Free to Be Mindful Podcast - podcast cover

Free to Be Mindful Podcast

Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCCwww.freetobemindful.com

The Free to Be Mindful Podcast invites you along on a journey to learn of mindful living, grow in mental health and inspire through personal growth. In a world where we can often feel much stress and overwhelm, this podcast provides bite-sized tips and real-talk conversations, empowering you to embrace mindfulness and nurture your full potential.

Welcome to the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, where busy working moms like you can find solace, clarity, and practical tips to live a mindful and intentional life.  Hosted by Vanessa De Jesus Guzman - a Licensed Therapist, Retired Educator, Entrepreneur, and Mom of two - this podcast is designed to empower moms to prioritize their mental well-being, embrace mindfulness, and nurture their full potential without losing their cool.

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, stressed, and burnt out. But motherhood doesn’t have to mean chaos and anxiety. The Free to Be Mindful Podcast provides bite-sized tips, real-talk conversations, and  expert interviews to help you embrace an intentional approach to find joy and reduce overwhelm, prioritize your mental health amidst the chaos of motherhood, and engage in self-discovery with guidance from experts and personal stories


Vanessa's unique blend of professional experience and personal insight has made her a trusted voice in the wellness and mental health space. Featured on the Today Show, Univision, Parents Latina and multiple national publications, Vanessa is passionate about helping moms like you reduce the mental load, find moments of peace, and live a more fulfilling life.


Each episode is designed with your busy schedule in mind—keeping things short, sweet, and practical. Whether you're driving to work, folding laundry, or taking a break between tasks, you can easily fit these episodes into your day. Every episode wraps up with a short guided meditation, giving you the opportunity to pause, reflect, and center yourself.


Whether you’re looking to reduce stress, cultivate mindfulness, or simply carve out time for yourself, the Free to Be Mindful Podcast is the perfect companion for your journey to a more mindful and joyful life.


New episodes are released weekly twice a week, so don’t miss out! Tune in to reclaim your calm, center yourself, and remember that in the midst of it all, you are always Free to Be Mindful.

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Episodes

Encanto through a Latina Therapist's Lens

Disney’s Encanto has stolen our hearts with its beautiful story on the Latinx Madrigal family. This episode reviews the movie’s characters and themes, as they are seen through the eyes of a Latina therapist. Join in for this real-talk conversation on personal growth, mindful living, and a short meditation at the end. ABOUT the SHOW: The Free to Be Mindful podcast provides bite-sized tips for parents, educators and anyone interested in Mindful Living. All episodes are under 20 minutes with a guid...

Feb 26, 202221 minSeason 3Ep. 66

Ep65: Consult a Counselor

The “Consult a Counselor Series” is a segment of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, which answers parenting related questions to help caregivers live life mindfully. Today’s question is: “I flipped out with my kid. LIke really flipped out. I lost my cool. Yelled at the top of my lungs. Cursed and sent him to bed. How can I fix my wrong?” DISCLAIMER: Videos on this channel are for educational purposes only and should not be considered as or substituted for therapy or professional counseling help fro...

Feb 19, 20225 minSeason 3Ep. 65

7 Pillars to Mindful Love

This episode shares Vanessa’s 7 pillars which teach us how to love others mindfully, in addition to experiencing self love and showing up for ourselves. Understanding and experiencing these pillars help us in all relationships, including the one we hold with ourselves. Join in for this real-talk conversation on personal growth, mindful living, and a short meditation at the end. ABOUT the SHOW: The Free to Be Mindful podcast provides bite-sized tips for parents, educators and anyone interested in...

Feb 14, 202220 minSeason 3Ep. 64

Ep63: Consult a Counselor

The “Consult a Counselor Series” is a segment of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, which answers parenting related questions to help caregivers live life mindfully. Today’s question is: “My young child stated they want to kill themselves. I’m in complete shock. But how do I know it’s serious and not just a play on words?” RESOURCES: NJ Perform Care: 1-877-652-7624. Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (8255) National Suicide Crisis Text Line: tex...

Feb 03, 20228 minSeason 3Ep. 63

Expectations of Students and of Self

Recognizing potential versus needs are two very different stories. This week’s podcast discusses high expectations of kids, others and self. Join in for this real-talk conversation on personal growth, mindful living, and a short meditation at the end. ABOUT the SHOW: The Free to Be Mindful podcast provides bite-sized tips for parents, educators and anyone interested in Mindful Living. All episodes are under 20 minutes with a guided meditation at the end. Host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman is a License...

Jan 30, 202214 minSeason 3Ep. 62

Ep61: Consult a Counselor

The “Consult a Counselor Series” is a segment of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, which answers parenting related questions to help caregivers live life mindfully. Today’s question is: “My husband told my kid he sucks at soccer. I know that soccer isn’t the sport for him. But I don’t want to tell my kid he sucks at something. Please help.” DISCLAIMER: Videos on this channel are for educational purposes only and should not be considered as or substituted for therapy or professional counseling help...

Jan 20, 20225 minSeason 3Ep. 61

Privilege & Language

On this MLK weekend, Vanessa shares having race discussions with kids, centered on understanding privilege and use of language. Join in for this real-talk conversation on personal growth, mindful living, and a short meditation at the end. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Having Race Conversations with Children Blog Post Free to Be Mindful Podcast Episode 4: Self-Awareness & Privilege Free to Be Mindful Podcast Episode 5: Tough Talks with Kids ABOUT the SHOW: The Free to Be Mindful podcast provides bite-...

Jan 16, 202213 minSeason 3Ep. 60

Ep59: Consult a Counselor

The “Consult a Counselor Series” is a segment of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, which answers parenting related questions to help caregivers live life mindfully. Today’s Question: “It's like my kid thinks it's still Christmas. He's still asking me for all types of toys and I’m tired of fighting. How can I help him understand?” ABOUT: Host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Educator, Entrepreneur and Mom with almost 20 years of experience working with children, familie...

Jan 13, 20225 minSeason 3Ep. 59

New Year Triggers

In this episode host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman shares two strategies that serve as visual triggers and reminders to help you reach your personal and professional goals this year. Join in for this real-talk conversation on personal growth, mindful living, and a short meditation at the end. ABOUT the SHOW: The Free to Be Mindful podcast provides bite-sized tips for parents, educators and anyone interested in Mindful Living. All episodes are under 20 minutes with a guided meditation at the end. Host ...

Jan 09, 202219 minSeason 3Ep. 58

Ep57: Consult a Counselor

The “Consult a Counselor Series” is a segment of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, which answers parenting related questions to help caregivers live life mindfully. Today’s question: “The elf is gone and now my kids’ behavior is back to their old ways. Help!” DISCLAIMER : Videos on this channel are for educational purposes only and should not be considered as or substituted for therapy or professional counseling help from a licensed clinician. CATCH VANESSA WHEREVER YOU HANG OUT: Show Hashtag: #fr...

Jan 06, 20227 minSeason 3Ep. 57

What Matters Most

In this first episode of season 3, host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman gets more personal and candid as she shares personal updates, as well as podcast updates. Join in for this real-talk conversation on personal growth, mindful living, and a short meditation at the end. ABOUT the SHOW: The Free to Be Mindful podcast provides bite-sized tips for parents, educators and anyone interested in Mindful Living. All episodes are under 20 minutes with a guided meditation at the end. Host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman...

Jan 03, 202217 minSeason 3Ep. 56

Happy 1 Year Anniversary

December 17th marks the Free to Be Mindful Podcast One Year Anniversary! In this bonus episode Vanessa is filled with gratitude for each and every listener. It is our hope that you have listened in on new ideas and reminders on how you can be more aware, more present and more mindful in your everyday life. Happy Holidays and catch you in the new year! ABOUT the SHOW: The Free to Be Mindful podcast provides bite-sized tips for parents, educators and anyone interested in Mindful Living. Host Vanes...

Dec 17, 202111 minSeason 2Ep. 55

Sassy Says Podcast Collab Part 3

This week we have the third and final part of the interview which originally aired on the Sassy Says Podcast, where host Christie interviewed Vanessa on all things mindfulness, therapy, and parenting. This week there was real-talk (and funny!) conversation on the following topics: Therapy for Moms Raising Emotionally Intelligent children Connecting with Tweens & Teens Families in Transition Major Parent Takeaways You can check out the Sassy Says Podcast Book Mentioned: Yardsticks. Must have ...

Dec 14, 202130 minSeason 2Ep. 54

Ep53: Consult a Counselor

The “Consult a Counselor Series” is a segment of the Free to Be Mindful podcast, which answers parenting related questions to help caregivers live life mindfully. Today’s Question: “In a season where my kids receive so many toys, how can I teach them to be more empathetic or filled with more gratitude?” ABOUT: Host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman is an Educator, Licensed Professional Counselor, Entrepreneur and Mom with almost 20 years of experience working with children, families and educators in the e...

Dec 09, 20215 minSeason 2Ep. 53

Sassy Says Podcast Collab Part 2

Join in for part 2 of my interview with Christie Rocha, host of the Sassy Says Podcast. We discuss the topics below as we have some real-talk conversation. My journey on becoming a therapist School Counseling vs. Private Practice Counseling Why would you take your child to therapy? Culture & therapy Tips for when your child goes to therapy Managing Your Child’s Big Feelings Check out the Sassy Says Podcast here. ABOUT the SHOW: The Free to Be Mindful podcast provides bite-sized tips for pare...

Dec 06, 202126 minSeason 2Ep. 52

Ep51: Consult a Counselor

The “Consult a Counselor Series” is a segment of the Free to Be Mindful podcast, which answers parenting related questions to help caregivers live life mindfully. Today’s question: “It’s the holiday season and everyone has an Elf on the Shelf at home. I really don’t want to give into the social pressure. What should I do?” ABOUT: Host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman is an Educator, Licensed Professional Counselor, Entrepreneur and Mom with almost 20 years of experience working with children, families an...

Dec 02, 20214 minSeason 2Ep. 51

Sassy Says Podcast Collab Part 1

I had the pleasure of being interviewed by Christie Rocha on the Sassy Says Podcast. We discussed integrating mindfulness in parenting and in your everyday life. Join part one of the conversation to hear how to integrate mindfulness in your own life and in the lives of children, as I share of my own experience. Check out the Sassy Says Podcast here. ABOUT the SHOW: The Free to Be Mindful podcast provides bite-sized tips for parents, educators and anyone interested in Mindful Living. Host Vanessa...

Nov 29, 202125 minSeason 2Ep. 50

Gratitude & Presence

Host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman shares how she is living with intention in presence and gratitude, and how you can too. Join in for this real-talk conversation on mindful living, mental health and personal growth, along with a short celebration meditation. ABOUT the SHOW: The Free to Be Mindful podcast provides bite-sized tips for parents, educators and anyone interested in Mindful Living. Host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman is an Educator, Licensed Professional Counselor, Entrepreneur and Mom with almost...

Nov 22, 202118 minSeason 2Ep. 49

Ep48: Consult a Counselor

The “Consult a Counselor Series” is a segment of the Free to Be Mindful podcast, which answers parenting related questions to help caregivers live life mindfully. Today’s question: “My kid has so many toys. I don’t know what to do in regards to the toys AND to the space they take up. HELP!” DISCLAIMER : Videos on this channel are for educational purposes only and should not be considered as or substituted for therapy or professional counseling help from a licensed clinician. CATCH VANESSA WHEREV...

Nov 18, 20214 minSeason 2Ep. 48

Not What You Say, But How You Say It

Continuing the conversation of authenticity, we explore the concept of honesty, how we filter our thoughts when speaking to others, and how we receive others’ comments toward us. Join in for this real-talk conversation on mindful living, mental health and personal growth, along with a short celebration meditation. ABOUT the SHOW: The Free to Be Mindful podcast provides bite-sized tips for parents, educators and anyone working with kids. Host Vanessa De Jesus Guzman is an Educator, Licensed Profe...

Nov 02, 202114 minSeason 2Ep. 47

Ep: 46 Consult a Counselor

The “Consult a Counselor Series” is a segment of the Free to Be Mindful podcast, which answers parenting related questions to help caregivers live life mindfully. Today’s question: “Why don’t people understand my special needs kid on holidays like Halloween?” DISCLAIMER: Videos on this channel are for educational purposes only and should not be considered as or substituted for therapy or professional counseling help from a licensed clinician. CATCH VANESSA WHEREVER YOU HANG OUT: Show Hashtag: #f...

Oct 29, 20215 minSeason 2Ep. 46

Unmasking Your True Self

Many around the world participate in Halloween by buying costumes and masks. However, do we wear masks on days other than Halloween? This episode discusses what it means to become our most authentic selves, and provides strategies on how to stay true to ourselves. Join in for this real-talk conversation on mindful living, mental health and personal growth, along with a short celebration meditation. ABOUT the SHOW: The Free to Be Mindful podcast provides bite-sized tips for parents, educators and...

Oct 27, 202115 minSeason 2Ep. 45

Ep44: Consult a Counselor

The “Consult a Counselor Series” is a segment of the Free to Be Mindful podcast, which answers parenting related questions to help caregivers live life mindfully. Today’s question: “My child is getting bullied. What should I do?” GET THE FREE PDF: Here is a FREE gift with Tips to Help Navigate Bullying. Hope it helps! https://www.freetobemindful.com/navigating-bullying DISCLAIMER: Videos on this channel are for educational purposes only and should not be considered as or substituted for therapy ...

Oct 18, 20215 minSeason 2Ep. 44

Raising Independent Thinkers

As parents we may want to protect our kids from all types of emotional pain. However, when we do that, we do not allow our kids to make mistakes with our support, which may hinder them as adults. This episode provides you with tips and phrases to help kids be independent thinkers and responsible for their actions. Join in for this real-talk conversation on mindful living, mental health and personal growth, along with a short celebration meditation. ABOUT the SHOW: The Free to Be Mindful podcast ...

Oct 10, 202117 minSeason 2Ep. 43

Ep42: Consult a Counselor

The “Consult a Counselor Series” is a segment of the Free to Be Mindful podcast, which answers parenting related questions to help caregivers live life mindfully. Today’s Question: “What do I say to my first grader who is left to sit all alone at the lunch table?” DISCLAIMER: Videos on this channel are for educational purposes only and should not be considered as or substituted for therapy or professional counseling help from a licensed clinician. CATCH VANESSA WHEREVER YOU HANG OUT: Show Hashta...

Oct 03, 20216 minSeason 2Ep. 42

Celebration of Life

The aspect of mindfulness isn’t just about slowing down and stilling the mind. It’s about getting to know yourself on a deeper and more personal level. The more you take the time to see life positively and to celebrate yourself, the more positive things you’ll find to celebrate. Join in for this real-talk conversation on mindful living, mental health and personal growth, along with a short celebration meditation. ABOUT the SHOW: The Free to Be Mindful podcast provides bite-sized tips for parents...

Sep 26, 202115 minSeason 2Ep. 41

Ep40: Consult a Counselor

The “Consult a Counselor Series” is a segment of the Free to Be Mindful podcast, which answers parenting related questions to help caregivers live life mindfully. Today’s Question “My child needs additional help. Should I speak to his school counselor or should I get a therapist outside of school?” DISCLAIMER: Videos on this channel are for educational purposes only and should not be considered as or substituted for therapy or professional counseling help from a licensed clinician. CATCH VANESSA...

Sep 23, 20214 minSeason 2Ep. 40

Doing What Brings You Joy

ABOUT the EPISODE: Society tends to overschedule kids with extracurricular activities. While this has great benefits, it’s important to remember kids need space to play and just be. On the other hand, as adults we tend to forget the importance of participating in extracurricular activities and in things that bring us joy. This episode of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast discusses both of these aspects and its benefits. Join in for this real-talk conversation on mindful living, mental health and pe...

Sep 19, 202115 minSeason 2Ep. 39

Ep38: Consult a Counselor

The “Consult a Counselor Series” is a segment of the Free to Be Mindful podcast, which answers parenting related questions to help caregivers live life mindfully. Today’s question: “My kid does not like his teacher at all, and it’s only the start of the year. Should I ask for a change in teachers?” DISCLAIMER: Videos on this channel are for educational purposes only and should not be considered as or substituted for therapy or professional counseling help from a licensed clinician. CATCH VANESSA...

Sep 17, 20215 minSeason 2Ep. 38

Confidence to Overcome Fears

ABOUT the EPISODE: The lack of confidence can hold us back from doing hard things and overcoming our fears. This episode of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast discusses how mindset, body awareness, and preparation contributes to boosting confidence to reach our goals. Join in for this real-talk conversation on personal growth, mindful living, and a short meditation. ABOUT the SHOW: The Free to Be Mindful podcast provides bite-sized tips for parents, educators and anyone working with kids. These real...

Sep 13, 202116 minSeason 2Ep. 37
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