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

Valuing Life as It's Happening

Sometimes it takes tragic events or a loss of a loved one to remind us what is truly important in life. This episode provides tips on how we can take small steps to value life as it’s happening in the right here, right now. Join Vanessa - educator, licensed therapist, entrepreneur and mom - for this real-talk conversation on mindful living, mental health, and personal growth, with a short meditation at the end. FREE GIFT! The “Talking to Your Kids Without Losing Your Cool Guide” includes strateg...

Sep 12, 202217 minSeason 4Ep. 96

Ep95: 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: “What can I ask on the Consult a Counselor Series?” FREE GIFT for YOU: Do you find yourself repeating yourself 97234920 times? Do your kids only take actions once you’ve flipped out? This is for you… The “Talking to Your Kids Without Losing Your Cool Guide” includes strategies for limit setting and the language to ...

Sep 08, 20223 minSeason 4Ep. 95

Season 4 & Revisiting Goals

Welcome to season 4 of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast! Vanessa shares about herself, the podcast, and what drives her motivation in all she does. She also shares how this time of the year ties into yearly goals. Join Vanessa - educator, licensed therapist, entrepreneur and mom - for this real-talk conversation on mindful living, mental health, and personal growth, with a short meditation at the end. FREE GIFT! The “Talking to Your Kids Without Losing Your Cool Guide” includes strategies for limi...

Sep 05, 202215 minSeason 4Ep. 94

Closing out Season 3

In this episode Vanessa reflects on summer while bringing season 3 of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast to an end. The progress and growth of the podcast are shared, including changes for season 4! 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...

Aug 29, 202215 minSeason 3Ep. 93

Stages of Life

Did you know there are defined stages of development that describe important concepts we learn in each stage? This episode shares these stages, the concepts we should be obtaining in each stage, and what they have to do with mindfulness. 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 ar...

Aug 22, 202220 minSeason 3Ep. 92

Back to School Prep for Parents

This episode shares three crucial tips that could make or break how successful this year is for your household. The major insight is how beneficial these tips are for YOU - more than for your kid. 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 meditati...

Aug 15, 202220 minSeason 3Ep. 91

Mindfully Managing Intense Emotions

August 8th is known as “Happiness Happens Day.” My question to you is, does happiness “just happen” Also, when it doesn’t happen, how do you mindfully manage intense feelings? 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 V...

Aug 08, 202218 minSeason 3Ep. 90

Ep89: Vacationing

This episode shares mindful vacation tips for traveling with children and the benefits for traveling without children, while also discussing privilege and importance of connection. 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. Ho...

Aug 01, 202217 minSeason 3Ep. 89

Parenting Styles

July 24th is National Parents Day - who knew?! Parenting is the hardest job in the world, and doesn’t come with a manual. Our parenting styles have an impact on how secure our kids grow up to be - within themselves and in their own friendships and future relationships. 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 ...

Jul 25, 202220 minSeason 3Ep. 88

So, What Do You Do?

This episode discusses the intersectionality and potential alignment between our careers, passions and hobbies. Vanessa reflects on the idea of hobbies outside of work and how much we engage in things that bring us joy. 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 Licensed Professional Counselor, Educat...

Jul 18, 202215 minSeason 3Ep. 87

Learning to Rest

Many of us take vacations in the summer, and sometimes by the time we get back, we may feel as though we need a vacation from the vacation. In this episode we discuss the importance of learning to rest; strategies are shared on how to do so, and how that intertwines with the concept of mindfulness. 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 th...

Jul 11, 202220 minSeason 3Ep. 86

Feeling Fulfilled

With the wave of graduations across the nation coming to an end, many families are thinking of what’s next. In this episode Vanessa focuses on the importance of celebrating each step of life, of feeling fulfilled in our career choices, and of reflecting on the goals we have for our kids and for ourselves. 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 meditatio...

Jun 27, 202218 minSeason 3Ep. 85

Chasing Growth

In this episode Vanessa shares a personal story about her recent first 5K experience, pushing herself outside of her comfort zone, and overcoming many challenges that took place on that day, through the power of mindfulness. 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 Licensed Professional Counselor, E...

Jun 20, 202222 minSeason 3Ep. 84

Wants & Needs

Adults often teach kids to consider their wants and needs, but there are times where we place more emphasis on one over the other, pending on our motives, priorities, budget and more. 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...

Jun 14, 202218 minSeason 3Ep. 83

Our Present Roles

Ever feel as though you are expected to play the part of a main character in a book or movie? Sometimes we play parts, especially during big life transitions, instead of being our most authentic selves. Listen in as Vanessa provides questions for you to reflect on, along with a short guided meditation. 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 a...

Jun 06, 202217 minSeason 3Ep. 82

Ep81: 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: “It’s been a week and my kids are still feeling the aftermath of the Texas tragedy. They’re super scared to go to school. What can I do? FREE GIFT for YOU: Do you find yourself repeating yourself 97234920 times? Do your kids only take actions once you’ve flipped out? This is for you… The “Talking to Your Kids Witho...

Jun 03, 20227 minSeason 3Ep. 81

Intentionality in the Present Moment

In this episode Vanessa discusses the importance of creating the space and time to enjoy our families and our lives in the present moment instead of waiting until we run out of time and it’s too late. 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 Licensed Professional Counselor, Educator, Entrepreneur an...

May 30, 202218 minSeason 3Ep. 80

Ep79: 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: “How on earth do I talk to my kids about all of these tragedies happening.” FREE GIFT for YOU: Do you find yourself repeating yourself 97234920 times? Do your kids only take actions once you’ve flipped out? This is for you… The “Talking to Your Kids Without Losing Your Cool Guide” includes strategies for limit sett...

May 27, 20227 minSeason 3Ep. 79

Celebrating Free to Be Mindful

Free to Be Mindful turns 3! In this episode Vanessa shares Free to Be Mindful’s journey - the ups and the downs - in addition to providing motivation to achieving goals. 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...

May 24, 202220 minSeason 3Ep. 78

Ep77: 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: “There is this kid who has made my daughter’s life absolutely impossible this year. I’m part of the same parent group, which makes it tough, but I don’t want my kid in classes with her next year. What can I do?” DISCLAIMER: Videos on this channel are for educational purposes only and should not be considered as or ...

May 19, 20224 minSeason 3Ep. 77

Challenging Mothers & Self-Care

Mothers have very complex roles and endless responsibilities. However, it seems that some enjoy swimming in the space of to-do’s and stress, instead of carving out space for self-care. This episode challenges mothers and caregivers to be selfish with their time, put themselves first, and create support networks to help keep a healthy balance within motherhood. Join in for this real-talk conversation on personal growth, mindful living, and a short meditation at the end. ABOUT the SHOW: The Free t...

May 15, 202220 minSeason 3Ep. 76

Ep75: 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 son is an only child and is awful at communicating. He doesn’t make eye contact with others, he doesn’t know how to initiate play or conversation with other kids, and just doesn’t know how to socialize. What can I do to help?” DISCLAIMER: Videos on this channel are for educational purposes only and should not ...

May 11, 20226 minSeason 3Ep. 75

Stress & Therapy

April is Stress Awareness Month and Counseling Awareness Month - ironic, isn’t it! How do we know when our experienced stress needs professional help? And how do we go about seeking therapy? This episode answers those questions and more. 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 ar...

Apr 27, 202215 minSeason 3Ep. 74

Ep73: 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: “Recently I was criticized about my child being in a lot of activities. How much is too much?” 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 OU...

Apr 21, 20227 minSeason 3Ep. 73

Are We Our Kids' Triggers?

Ever notice how when we’re stressed and overwhelmed our kids begin to act up too? What can we do when there is a lot on our plate? Listen in and watch your kids’ behavior change. 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. Hos...

Apr 08, 202217 minSeason 3Ep. 72

Ep71: 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: “Lately I’ve been super triggered by my kids. I’m super annoyed by everything they do. How can I help them stop bothering me?” 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. CA...

Mar 20, 20227 minSeason 3Ep. 71

Time vs. Fear

Time is our most nonrenewable resource. What are you doing with the time you have? What is stopping you from achieving that? This episode of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast has listeners reflect on how precious time is, think of the road blocks that may be in the way, and make plans to achieve set goals. 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,...

Mar 15, 202214 minSeason 3Ep. 70

Ep69: 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 child always says things like, ‘I’m so stupid,” and ‘I hate myself.’ What can I do to help her see how awesome she is?" 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. CATC...

Mar 13, 20227 minSeason 3Ep. 69

Celebrating International Women's Day

March 8, 2022 celebrates International Women’s Day. This is must-hear for all women, especially mothers, to obtain gentle reminders challenging them to let go of things that no longer serve them, to be the best woman for themselves. Don’t identify as a woman? Join in to gain further insight on how women work - specifically mothers. 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...

Mar 08, 202218 minSeason 3Ep. 68

Ep67: 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: “How can I prepare my kid as the mask mandates are lifted in schools?” 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: #freeto...

Mar 05, 20227 minSeason 3Ep. 67
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