The New Year typically brings upon the want or need to make some changes. However, there are important things to consider before implementing any change, if we are to be successful. This episode shares tips to help us prioritize our focus for the new year, in hopes to reach our goals. Join in for this real-talk conversation on personal growth, mindful living, and a short meditation at the end. Read my 2022 Year in Review Here! Send us a text 120 COPING SKILLS https://www.freetobemindful.com/podc...
Jan 09, 2023•22 min•Season 4Ep. 126
2022 is almost at its end! To celebrate an amazing year we are replaying the most played episode from 2022. Very apropos for the New Year timing! 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 person...
Dec 30, 2022•15 min•Season 4Ep. 125
On this two year anniversary of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, host Vanessa celebrates the accomplishment while balancing the current mental load around the holiday season. Listeners are cued in to what the holiday mental load can look like, given permission to have grace with themselves, and tips on how to manage feelings during what can be a joyous, but stressful time. Join Vanessa - licensed therapist, educator, entrepreneur and mom - for this real-talk conversation weaving mindful living, m...
Dec 21, 2022•22 min•Season 4Ep. 124
The recent passing of Stephen tWitch Boss proved difficult to comprehend and come to terms with for many. In this episode of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, host and licensed therapist Vanessa De Jesus Guzman shares honest and raw feelings on the event, and provides education on understanding suicide, the semantics we use, and how we can help loved ones. Send us a text 120 COPING SKILLS https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast-120copingskills CULTIVATE CALM CHALLENGE https://www.freetobemindful.c...
Dec 17, 2022•19 min•Season 3Ep. 123
As we approach the holidays and think of the gifts we want to purchase for our loved ones, the concept of the 5 Love Languages may help with understanding what our loved ones may actually want for the holidays or special occasions. Join Vanessa - licensed therapist, educator, entrepreneur and mom - for this real-talk conversation weaving mindful living, mental health, and personal growth, with a short meditation at the end. Main 5 Love Languages Free Quiz https://5lovelanguages.com/quizzes/love-...
Dec 13, 2022•16 min•Season 4Ep. 122
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: “With the holidays right around the corner I’m thinking about getting my kid a cell phone. What age is the right age?” Have a question for the Consult a Counselor Series? Email at podcast@freetobemindful.com. Send us a text 120 COPING SKILLS https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast-120copingskills CULTIVATE CALM CHA...
Dec 09, 2022•9 min•Season 4Ep. 121
As we shop for the holidays we more regularly come across various employees and service providers. However, how far do we believe in the statement “The customer is always right?” This episode explores the concepts of providing good customer service and being a good customer. Join Vanessa - licensed therapist, educator, entrepreneur and mom - for this real-talk conversation weaving mindful living, mental health, and personal growth, with a short meditation at the end. Send us a text 120 COPING SK...
Dec 07, 2022•19 min•Season 4Ep. 120
Disclaimer: Adult ears only. 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: “You’d think my kid would behave around the holidays. I threaten him with the elf and Santa, but he is still throwing intense temper tantrums. Help!” Have a question for the Consult a Counselor Series? Email at podcast@freetobemindful.com. FREE GIFTS! “Tools to Help Kids Navigate Mistre...
Dec 05, 2022•7 min•Season 4Ep. 119
While it is believed we all exude joy during the holiday season, the reality is we may experience many holiday pressures. This episode gives you permission to prioritize yourself, while providing tips to protect your mental health during the holiday season. Join Vanessa - licensed therapist, educator, entrepreneur and mom - for this real-talk conversation weaving mindful living, mental health, and personal growth, with a short meditation at the end. INVITATION Join Vanessa on Monday, December 5t...
Dec 01, 2022•20 min•Season 4Ep. 118
On this Thanksgiving Day I would like to thank you for your support on the various projects I lead: the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, Amiga Moms, my newsletter, social media channels, and my therapy practice. I appreciate your trust throughout it all. Wishing you and your family and very Happy Thanksgiving! FREE GIFT! Find it here! https://www.freetobemindful.com/talkingtokids Send us a text 120 COPING SKILLS https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast-120copingskills CULTIVATE CALM CHALLENGE https://...
Nov 24, 2022•4 min•Season 4Ep. 117
As we approach Thanksgiving, the concept of gratitude is on our minds. Having a gratitude practice has various scientifically proven benefits. This episode shares those benefits, how we can all benefit from having a daily gratitude practice, in addition to naming 100 everyday things we can be grateful for today. Join Vanessa - licensed therapist, educator, entrepreneur and mom - for this real-talk conversation weaving mindful living, mental health, and personal growth, with a short meditation at...
Nov 21, 2022•15 min•Season 4Ep. 116
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: “Thanksgiving is coming up and my kid is the pickiest eater. How do I get my kid to eat so that I won’t be judged by my extended family?” Have a question for the Consult a Counselor Series? Email at podcast@freetobemindful.com. FREE GIFTS! “Tools to Help Kids Navigate Mistreatment” https://www.freetobemindful.com/n...
Nov 18, 2022•6 min•Season 4Ep. 115
When living great experiences two things typically happen - we get upset when the experiences have passed or we are left wanting more. In this episode Vanessa shares how reframing our thoughts and living a life filled with gratitude can bring more joy and peace into our lives. Join Vanessa - licensed therapist, educator, entrepreneur and mom - for this real-talk conversation weaving mindful living, mental health, and personal growth, with a short meditation at the end. FREE GIFTS! “Tools to Help...
Nov 15, 2022•17 min•Season 4Ep. 114
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 the end of the marking period and my kid did terribly. I’m so mad but nothing seems to get through to him!” Have a question for the Consult a Counselor Series? Email at podcast@freetobemindful.com. FREE GIFTS! “Tools to Help Kids Navigate Mistreatment” https://www.freetobemindful.com/navigating-bullying “Talk...
Nov 10, 2022•7 min•Season 4Ep. 113
It is said… Time is an illusion. Time is money. Time is the biggest and our most valuable non-renewable resource. When we think about it though, not all hours are created equal. In this episode Vanessa reflects on what we’re doing with the time we do have along with 5 tips to make the most of our time. Join Vanessa - licensed therapist, educator, entrepreneur and mom - for this real-talk conversation weaving mindful living, mental health, and personal growth, with a short meditation at the end. ...
Nov 07, 2022•20 min•Season 4Ep. 112
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 kid forgets everything at home - homework, glasses, instruments, sneakers for PE - everything! How do I teach him responsibility?” Have a question for the Consult a Counselor Series? Email at podcast@freetobemindful.com. FREE GIFTS! “Tools to Help Kids Navigate Mistreatment” https://www.freetobemindful.com/navi...
Nov 03, 2022•7 min•Season 4Ep. 111
In life we have gotten used to instant gratification, however, that isn’t always possible. When we don’t get what we want, how do we react? And how does that impact others? These are the topics discussed in this week’s episode, along with tips to help with being patient and how to have a positive attitude while we’re waiting. Join Vanessa - licensed therapist, educator, entrepreneur and mom - for this real-talk conversation weaving mindful living, mental health, and personal growth, with a short...
Oct 31, 2022•18 min•Season 4Ep. 110
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 kid has special needs and holidays like Halloween are tough for him. What can I do to help others understand our struggles?” Have a question for the Consult a Counselor Series? Email at podcast@freetobemindful.com. FREE GIFTS! “Tools to Help Kids Navigate Mistreatment” https://www.freetobemindful.com/navigating...
Oct 27, 2022•6 min•Season 4Ep. 109
We don’t just treat others the way we want to be treated, we actually TEACH others the way we want to be treated. In this episode Vanessa shares tips to help your working, romantic, familial and parent-child relationships. Join Vanessa - licensed therapist, educator, entrepreneur and mom - for this real-talk conversation weaving mindful living, mental health, and personal growth, with a short meditation at the end. FREE GIFTS! “Tools to Help Kids Navigate Mistreatment” https://www.freetobemindfu...
Oct 24, 2022•20 min•Season 4Ep. 108
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 do you give your children, specifically your middle schooler, more independence as they grow up, while still making sure that you have the reins?” Have a question for the Consult a Counselor Series? Email at podcast@freetobemindful.com. FREE GIFTS! “Tools to Help Kids Navigate Mistreatment” https://www.freetob...
Oct 20, 2022•7 min•Season 4Ep. 107
If you’ve been here for a while, or if you’re new, every month we discuss how mindful living, mental health and personal growth intersect with a special guest to the show that has expertise in the above mentioned areas. In this week’s episode, guest Lisa Dominguez and I chat, connect, and share little nuggets of how you can incorporate mindfulness into your everyday life. We are all so busy, and we are all adults dealt with different sets of cards. However, we can always find time for little mom...
Oct 17, 2022•41 min•Season 4Ep. 106
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 middle schooler is already talking about group costumes for Halloween and it's driving me nuts. So much unnecessary drama! Help!” Have a question for the Consult a Counselor Series? Email at podcast@freetobemindful.com. FREE GIFTS! “Tools to Help Kids Navigate Mistreatment” “Talking to Your Kids Without Losing ...
Oct 13, 2022•7 min•Season 4Ep. 105
Shoutout to the parents that are recovering “ Pinterest Perfect Parents”. You know, the parents that spend countless hours and amounts of energy planning, executing, and preparing for a birthday party. Meanwhile, when they day of the party comes, you’re so consumed with making sure the party, the guests, and every minute detail are spot on, that you forget to schedule time for yourself to enjoy the moment. How do I know this topic so well? Because I myself am a recovering “Pinterest Perfect Pare...
Oct 10, 2022•16 min•Season 4Ep. 104
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 do I teach my child kindness and inclusivity - including everyone and not leaving anyone out?” Have a question for the Consult a Counselor Series? Email at podcast@freetobemindful.com. FREE GIFTS! “Tools to Help Kids Navigate Mistreatment” https://www.freetobemindful.com/navigating-bullying “Talking to Your Ki...
Oct 06, 2022•6 min•Season 4Ep. 103
The three things I always reinforced in my classroom at the start of every new year were: Respecting others, respect of space. and Self-respect. These are messages that we as parents, educators, and society in general, instill into kids at such a young age, and continuously embed it year after into them. While we are so adamant of reminding young ones of these principles of respect in all forms, somewhere along the way, we lose the ability to do the most important one of all: self-respect. In th...
Oct 03, 2022•14 min•Season 4Ep. 102
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: “Kids are in school one month and I'm not liking my kid's teacher. They don't give enough homework. So different from my older child's teacher. What should I do?” Have a question for the Consult a Counselor Series? Email at podcast@freetobemindful.com. FREE GIFT! “Talking to Your Kids Without Losing Your Cool Guide...
Sep 29, 2022•5 min•Season 4Ep. 101
When was the last time you took a purposeful moment just to pause, and celebrate something in your life that wasn't a special day on the calendar? Most of us tend to put emphasis on the days that are important, but not the baby step moments and actions in the day, that lead up to possible monumental achievements. In this episode, I will share with you a few personal achievements I have had recently, how I am making mindful reflection on them, and how you can implement the same kind of thinking i...
Sep 22, 2022•20 min•Season 4Ep. 100
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'm a stay at home mom. I thought I was going to be thrilled when my kids went to school, but I just miss them. What should I do?” Have a question for the Consult a Counselor Series? Email at podcast@freetobemindful.com. FREE GIFT! The “Talking to Your Kids Without Losing Your Cool Guide” includes strategies for l...
Sep 22, 2022•4 min•Season 4Ep. 99
If you’ve been here for a while, you know that my passions revolve around the well-being of children, educators, and mothers in all facets of their daily lives. More importantly, I love to focus on the mindfulness approach we can take with each action to take steps towards a healthy physical, emotional, and mental state, especially for women and children of color. With National Childhood Obesity Month being in September, I thought it would be great to bring on a guest speaker that is not only a ...
Sep 19, 2022•42 min•Season 4Ep. 98
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 partner is Latino and I am not. He wants to speak Spanish to our kids at home, but it leaves me out. And they learn Spanish in school anyway. What should I do?” Have a question for the Consult a Counselor Series? Email at podcast@freetobemindful.com. FREE GIFT! The “Talking to Your Kids Without Losing Your Cool...
Sep 15, 2022•5 min•Season 4Ep. 97
