This Thing Called Wellness - podcast cover

This Thing Called Wellness

🎙️ Welcome to This Thing Called Wellness — a heart-centered space where women over 40 come to heal, empower, and connect—one meaningful conversation at a time.


I’m Shannon D. Martin, Certified Health & Wellness Coach, host, and a woman rediscovering herself after years of showing up for everyone else. After more than a decade of navigating anxiety, depression, and burnout, I chose to pause, pour into my own healing, and start again. 💚


Now, I’m learning to define wellness in a way that honors what feels right for me not by outside expectations, but by my own rhythm. And I’m inviting you to do the same.


Every other Wednesday, I sit down with guests who have lived through transformation or are creating healing spaces where others can rise. Some are women rebuilding their lives. Others are leaders, guides, and change-makers helping women rediscover who they are through support, storytelling, and soul work.


Together, we explore real stories, heartfelt wisdom, and gentle tools to support your emotional, spiritual, mental, and physical wellness.


✨ If you’ve ever asked, “Who am I now?”—this space is for you.


Tune in on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music, or wherever you listen.


💌 Subscribe to Your Rhythm, our nurturing newsletter, at thisthingcalledwellness.com, and follow @thisthingcalledwellness on Instagram and YouTube for soft encouragement and soulful support.


Because your wellness doesn’t follow a timeline or a checklist.


It flows. It evolves.
Wellness is a rhythm—not a destination.
And we’re walking it together. 🌿

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Episodes

Setting Bold Intentions for 2025: Embracing Self-Love and Growth

Send us a text As we stand on the brink of 2025, imagine setting goals that not only excite you but also align with your deepest values. This episode promises to guide you through the art of simplifying your aspirations for the new year. Reflect on the highs and lows of 2024, revel in the personal growth you've experienced, and learn how to sift through the noise of planners and courses to find what truly resonates with you. Whether you're a fan of the tactile satisfaction of paper planners or t...

Dec 11, 20249 minSeason 3Ep. 42

Embracing the Feminine: Wellness Through Body Wisdom with Kristin Layne

Send us a text Discover the transformative power of somatic practices with the insightful Kristin Layne, a somatic feminine embodiment coach and holistic hairstylist. Kristin's journey from burnout and loss to healing through a priestess path offers a compelling narrative on the importance of reconnecting with one's body. Join us as Kristin reveals how she integrates breath work, sound, movement, and touch into her coaching and hairstyling practices, empowering women to embrace rest and pleasure...

Nov 27, 202429 minSeason 3Ep. 41

Reconnecting with Yourself During Life's Shifts

Send us a text Facing an empty nest this Thanksgiving? Join me, Shannon Martin, as we explore the uncharted terrain of quieter holidays and life transitions in "This Thing Called Wellness." I'll share my personal journey as my kids spend their first holiday away, and how this quieter season has become an unexpected opportunity for self-discovery and growth. Discover how embracing stillness can lead to rediscovering passions, finding peace through journaling, and establishing nurturing routines t...

Nov 13, 20245 minSeason 3Ep. 40

Embracing Growth: The Power of Community at a Women's Business Retreat

Send us a text What if stepping outside your comfort zone could lead to unimaginable growth and fulfillment? Join me, Shannon Martin, as I recount my transformative experience at a women's business retreat in the stunning city of San Diego. Far from being just another professional gathering, this retreat was a nurturing space where vibrant culture and inspiring landscapes set the stage for authentic connection and personal revelation. Discover how the magic of community and the power of supporti...

Oct 30, 20247 minSeason 3Ep. 39

Inspiring Stories of Health Transformation

Send us a text What if the household products you trust are silently impacting your health? Join us as we unravel Melissa Flint's compelling journey, sparked by a startling discovery that xenoestrogens in everyday items were affecting her well-being. Hear how her vigilance and curiosity led to revelations about invisible toxins and the crucial role a supportive community plays in navigating wellness challenges. Melissa’s story is a testament to the power of staying informed and proactive about w...

Oct 16, 202410 minSeason 3Ep. 38

Creating Something Beautiful from Uncertainty with Shana Scott-Lee

Send us a text Have you ever wondered how a solo retreat could transform your life? Meet Shana Scott-Lee, the inspiring founder of Breathe and Exhale 360, who turned her solo birthday retreat during the pandemic into a thriving wellness brand. Shana takes us through her courageous journey, from navigating dark, unfamiliar roads to witness a sunrise in Fredericksburg, Texas, to overcoming her fears in life and entrepreneurship. Her story is a testament to the power of stepping into the unknown to...

Oct 02, 202434 minSeason 3Ep. 37

From Pain to Advocacy: Melissa's Wellness Transformation

Send us a text Did you know that persistent back pain and vomiting can be symptoms of anxiety? Join us for an incredible episode featuring Melissa Flynt, who courageously shares her journey from debilitating health issues to becoming a passionate wellness advocate. Melissa's story reveals how a holistic approach to health not only uncovered the hidden dangers of everyday toxins but also highlighted the critical connection between gut health and overall well-being. You'll also hear how a general ...

Sep 18, 202436 minSeason 3Ep. 36

"When Life is Falling Apart: Realizing It's Coming Together"

Send us a text Ever felt like everything in your life is crumbling, only to later realize it was all part of something greater? In this episode of "This Thing Called Wellness", we dive into those moments when life feels like it's falling apart, and how—just beneath the surface—things are actually falling into place. I’m taking you on a personal journey, sharing stories from my own life when everything seemed to unravel, only to lead to breakthroughs I never expected. Whether it’s navigating stre...

Sep 04, 202416 minSeason 3Ep. 35

Journey Back to You: Finding Yourself Again

Send us a text In this insightful and heartfelt episode, host Shannon D. Martin takes you on a personal journey of rediscovery as she navigates the challenges and triumphs of finding herself again in the second half of her life. After years dedicated to being a caregiver, mother, and wife, Shannon shares her experiences in an honest conversation with her friend and youngest son. Together, they explore the emotional and mental aspects of reclaiming identity, self-care, and personal fulfillment. T...

Aug 21, 202414 minSeason 3Ep. 34

Summer Reflections: Gratitude and Growth

Send us a text In this heartfelt episode, we delve into the unexpected blessings and deep spiritual growth that shaped my summer. What I thought would be a lonely season turned into a journey of connection, love, and profound reflection. Join me as I share the cherished moments spent with those who are closest to my heart: My Best Friend: A soul sister who stood by me, offering unwavering support and love as we navigated life’s ups and downs together. My Son: As he embarks on his final year of c...

Aug 07, 202410 minSeason 3Ep. 33

Beyond the Microphone

Send us a text Curious about the new and exciting updates coming to "This Thing Called Wellness"? Join Shannon Martin as she shares remarkable enhancements that will elevate our wellness journey together. You'll discover how our shift to bi-weekly episodes aims to provide you with more valuable and engaging content. Plus, Shannon will step out from behind the microphone to bring you video content, making our discussions even more interactive and vivid. Imagine not only hearing our tips but seein...

May 29, 202414 minSeason 2Ep. 32

Soothing the Soul When Life Gets Overwhelming

Send us a text Ever find yourself blindsided by frustration, your equilibrium knocked askew by life's unexpected tumbles? I'm Shannon Martin, and this heart-to-heart is a candid revelation of my own skirmish with anxiety—sparked by a lost set of keys and fueled by a stubborn dog in the Georgia heat. This episode of "This Thing Called Wellness" is an intimate journey through the ebbs and flows of mental and physical harmony, where I lay bare the moments that test our resilience and the journaling...

May 22, 202412 minSeason 2Ep. 31

Harmonizing Mind and Body: Understanding the Connection

Send us a text Discover the keys to unlocking your best self as we explore the profound interplay between mind and body on "This Thing Called Wellness." Ever wonder how your mental chatter can manifest as a physical symptom, or why a simple jog can lift your spirits? Join me, as we navigate the complex pathways that link our emotional and physical states, and learn practical strategies to harmonize the two for a healthier, happier you. In our latest episode, we peel back the layers of lifestyle ...

May 15, 20249 minSeason 2Ep. 30

Technology and Mental Health: Finding the Balance

Send us a text Struggling to find the sweet spot between your screen time and peace of mind? You're not alone. Join me, Shannon Martin, on a journey of self-discovery and digital detox as we tackle the challenging equilibrium in 'This Thing Called Wellness.' We've all been there—scrolling through perfect profiles and feeling anything but. In this episode, we're peeling back the curtain on social media's smoke and mirrors to reveal the impact on our mental health. I'll share the personal mantras ...

May 08, 202411 minSeason 2Ep. 29

A Candid Look into Anxiety and Depression

Send us a text Navigating the stormy seas of anxiety and depression is no small feat, and as I open up about my personal journey with generalized anxiety disorder and panic attacks, I invite you to find solace and understanding in our shared experiences. This Mental Health Month, I'm taking a moment to peel back the layers on what it means to live with these conditions, how they affect over 40 million adults worldwide, and the crucial need to prioritize our emotional, psychological, and social w...

May 01, 202415 minSeason 2Ep. 28

Embracing the Winds of Change for Personal Revival

Send us a text Navigating life's storms takes more than just weathering them; it requires a transformation that I, have lived through. From managing the upheaval of transitioning from stay-at-home mom to entrepreneur during a period of illness, to finding solace in the midst of grief, this episode is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the journey towards self-restoration. I'm candid about the strategies that fortified me, such as the therapeutic power of journaling and the vit...

Apr 24, 202419 minSeason 2Ep. 27

"Breaking Free: How to Overcome the Cycle of Doing Nothing for Good"

Send us a text Struggling with the all-too-familiar feeling of being stuck in neutral, I found myself wrestling with the daunting cycle of doing nothing. My battle with a chaotic sleep schedule and the quest for motivation had me teetering on the edge of overwhelm. But through persistence and a little ingenuity, I chanced upon a strategy that turned my life around. Now, I'm here to share how breaking ambitions into bite-sized tasks and honing in on a single goal each month became my ladder out o...

Apr 10, 202415 minSeason 2Ep. 26

Crossing the Bridge from Social Fear to Empowerment

Send us a text Ever found yourself surrounded by a sea of faces at a networking event, your heart racing, palms sweating, unsure of how to bridge the gap between professional ambition and personal comfort? That's the tightrope I walked at the Behind Her Brand Conference in Dallas, Texas, and I'm thrilled to share the insights from this game-changing experience. As I, Shannon Martin, recount my journey alongside my dear friend Janis, we uncover the vibrant fusion of camaraderie and empowerment am...

Apr 03, 202414 minSeason 2Ep. 25

Discovering Comfort in Motion Strategies for Healthy Travels

Send us a text Embarking on a trip can often stir a cocktail of excitement and anxiety, particularly when health concerns like blood clots loom in the back of your mind. But as I, Shannon Martin, prep for my jaunt to a thrilling women's conference in Dallas, I'm spilling the beans on my personal toolkit for wellness while wandering. It's all about turning obstacles into opportunities to nurture oneself, and I'm here to share my tricks of the trade—from choosing the best seat on a plane to combat...

Mar 27, 202410 minSeason 2Ep. 24

The Voice Within: Listening to Your Emotions

Send us a text Navigating the stormy seas of emotional turmoil can be a solitary voyage, but you're not alone. I'm Shannon Martin, your fellow traveler, guiding you through the ebbs and flows of mental setbacks with the wisdom gleaned from my own journey. In our heart-to-heart talk, we plunge into the essence of emotional healing, embracing the tools of self-compassion and the critical act of asking "Why." Together, we unearth the profound connection between physical health and emotional well-be...

Mar 20, 202410 minSeason 2Ep. 23

Coping Reset: Renew Your Mindset After Setbacks

Send us a text Feeling the ground shift beneath me as I braced for medical test results, I discovered a well of strength in the support of my sister circle. This episode peels back the layers of anxiety and anticipation, revealing the coping strategies that helped me stay afloat—and how they can do the same for you. Hear about the transformative power of vulnerability when shared with loved ones, and the comfort that comes from their unwavering beacon of support. I also touch on the simple yet p...

Mar 13, 202412 minSeason 2Ep. 22

Healing Memories: Coping with a New Diagnosis and Medication

Send us a text I never expected to confront another pivotal health crisis that would turn my world upside down. The irony of my own resistance to rest, paired with the shock of a serious medical diagnosis after attending a women's retreat, led me down an unexpectedly transformative path. This episode peels back layers of vulnerability, showcasing the raw emotions that surged through me upon learning of my condition, and the resilience required to forge ahead with treatment and self-care. You'll ...

Mar 06, 202414 minSeason 2Ep. 21

Trusting the Journey: Finding My Word for a Year of Growth and Change

Send us a text Have you ever felt the weight of a new year pressuring you to redefine your life with just one word? I'm Shannon Morton, and in this heartfelt episode, I unravel my personal journey through self-growth and healing as the calendar flips to 2024. Despite the allure of holiday cheer, I found myself in a funk, questioning the necessity of following the trend of selecting a New Year's word. Through candid discussions, I share how stepping back to engage in self-communication and confro...

Jan 11, 202411 minSeason 1Ep. 20

Farewell to the Year: Embracing Growth and Setting Intentions for Wellness

Send us a text As we bid farewell to another year, I find myself enveloped in a profound sense of gratitude for the journey we've embarked on together. This podcast started as a tiny beacon of hope in the landscape of mental health discussion, and it has blossomed into a sanctuary where we've shared our struggles, triumphs, and everything in between. In our final episode of 2023, I'm reflecting on the stories that have connected us and celebrating the steps we've taken towards not just managing,...

Dec 27, 20235 minSeason 1Ep. 19

Reshaping New Year Goals Through the Lens of Trust

Send us a text Ever struggled to keep a New Year's resolution? Well, you're not alone. Join me, Shannon Martin, as I share my journey towards embracing "Trust" as my guiding word for the new year and how I'm reimagining the power of resolutions. On this thought-provoking ride, I discuss the challenges we all face in maintaining our commitments and offer a refreshing perspective on setting intentions that truly resonate. Instead of succumbing to the pressure of lofty goals, I invite you to consid...

Dec 27, 202310 minSeason 1Ep. 18

Winter Wellness: Nourishing Your Mind and Body

Send us a text Are the winter blues getting the best of your skin and spirit? Fear not, as I guide you through my personal winter wellness arsenal that's sure to nourish both mind and body during these frosty months. From battling dry skin with a mix of exfoliation and my holy grail combination of natural oils and Vaseline, to keeping your physical health in check with simple yet effective indoor exercises, I've got you covered. And let's not forget the mood-lifting powers of Vitamin D and the s...

Dec 20, 20239 minSeason 1Ep. 17

Holiday Self Care: Navigating the Holiday Season with Intention

Send us a text Feeling the holiday stress creeping in? Find comfort in knowing that you're not alone. Join me, Shannon Martin, as I share my strategies to navigate through the frantic holiday season with purpose and intention. From tackling the shopping frenzy to hosting events, I share how simple habits such as an adequate amount of sleep, nourishment, and even a little exercise can make a significant difference in dealing with stress and truly savoring the holiday spirit. This episode is all a...

Dec 13, 20237 minSeason 1Ep. 16

Holiday Grief: Navigating the Empty Chair

Send us a text The holiday season can be a fusion of joy and sorrow, especially if you're facing the 'empty chair' at the dinner table for the first time. I take you along on my personal journey through my first holiday season without my mother. Together, we explore the gritty reality of loss and the poignant pain of missing a loved one during 'the most wonderful time of the year.' But, as we venture through the murky waters of grief, we also discover the radiant power of cherished memories and ...

Dec 06, 202310 minSeason 1Ep. 15

Transforming Anger into Powerful Self-Realization

Send us a text Have you ever felt an emotional storm brewing within you and struggled to control it? I, am sharing my journey of transforming my intense anger into powerful self-realization. The undercurrent of this storm was deep-seated trauma and a lifetime of experiences that I'd been unknowingly carrying. Learn how I picked apart the triggers, managed my calm, and found healthier ways of processing my emotions while prioritizing my own well-being. This was a journey towards finding strength ...

Nov 01, 202310 minSeason 1Ep. 14

Family Support on the Path to Mental Wellness

Send us a text Navigating the emotional labyrinth of mental wellness not only takes a toll on the individual struggling, but also their loved ones who offer support. During this episode, your host, Shannon Martin, takes you through her experiences of mutual support with a close friend, shedding light on the importance of understanding, patience, and setting boundaries. Drawing from personal experiences and her family's journey, Shannon emphasizes the incredible power of empathy and understanding...

Oct 25, 202310 minSeason 1Ep. 13
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