What Abuse Does to Your Identity with Dr. Brooke Jones

What Abuse Does to Your Identity with Dr. Brooke Jones

Many people think abuse is only physical. In this episode of Thinking That Matters, Dr. Brooke Jones shares how emotional manipulation, isolation, shame, fear, and control can slowly reshape a person's identity long before physical violence ever appears. Brooke vulnerably shares her journey through domestic violence, trauma, and healing, revealing how abuse impacts self-worth, relationships, boundaries, and the way we think. Together, she and Elizabeth explore why people stay in unhealthy relationships, how trauma affects the brain and nervous system, and what it takes to rebuild trust in yourself after years of fear and control. We discussed: • Why people return to abusive relationships • How trauma rewires thinking patterns • The connection between shame and boundaries • The long-term effects of power and control • Rebuilding identity and self-worth after trauma Whether you've experienced abuse firsthand or recognize patterns of people-pleasing, fear, or emotional exhaustion in your own life, this conversation offers insight, hope, and practical wisdom. Because sometimes the hardest thing to rebuild after trauma isn't your life, it's your sense of self. Support Stronger Women Help support survivors by sponsoring a woman's healing journey for $199, a Single Moms Event Night or Stronger Teens Program for $500, or by sponsoring a room in Stronger Women's new office. About Dr. Brooke Jones Dr. Brooke Jones is a survivor, entrepreneur, and founder of Stronger Women®, a nonprofit helping domestic violence survivors heal through the Stronger than Espresso® Healing Model. She is also the author of Hiding Next Door, A Live Fret: 40 Days of Hope, and Stronger You. Connect with Stronger Women Website: www.strongerwomen.com [http://www.strongerwomen.com] Email: brooke@strongerwomen.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-brooke-jones/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-brooke-jones/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brooke.jones.31521 [https://www.facebook.com/brooke.jones.31521] Loved this episode? Follow, rate, and review the podcast. Because when you cultivate thinking that matters, you live a life that matters. ________ 💡 Join the Women Growth Group for live, in-person training that empowers your potential and connects you with a vibrant community of growth-minded women! https://linktr.ee/gowithelizabeth [https://linktr.ee/gowithelizabeth] Stay connected with Elizabeth on social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elizabethbmahusay [https://www.facebook.com/elizabethbmahusay] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ebmahusay/ [https://www.instagram.com/ebmahusay/] Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ElizabethMahusay [https://www.youtube.com/@ElizabethMahusay] Website: https://elizabethmahusay.com/ [https://elizabethmahusay.com/] ________ Don’t let another day slip by on autopilot. Pick Your Path gives you the roadmap to create lasting change. Get your copy now and put your plan into motion!  https://www.amazon.com/Pick-Your-Path-Mental-Autopilot-ebook/dp/B0D6NGKLJP Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com [https://pcm.adswizz.com] for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Breaking Generational Cycles That Feel Impossible to Escape with Jana O’Guin

What do you do when you feel called to something you don’t fully know how to build? In this episode of Thinking That Matters, I sit down with Jana O’Guin, founder of Building Families for Tomorrow and author of The Forgotten Women of Kenya. Jana shares how one visit to a women’s prison in Kenya changed the trajectory of her life and led to a nonprofit helping women rebuild their lives, support their children, and break cycles of generational poverty. Together, they explore purpose, faith, resilience, grief, leadership, and the reality of building something meaningful when you feel unqualified. In this episode, we talk about: * The moment Jana heard the words, “I forgot about them” * Why poverty is at the root of so many women’s stories * How taking the next step helps overcome fear and uncertainty * What it takes to break generational cycles * Navigating grief while continuing meaningful work * Why hard seasons often deepen faith More about Jana O’Guin: Jana O’Guin is the founder of Building Families for Tomorrow, a nonprofit helping women leaving prison in Kenya rebuild their lives through housing, counseling, education, and business training. She is also the author of The Forgotten Women of Kenya. Learn more or support the mission at Building Families For Tomorrow [https://www.buildingfamiliesfortomorrow.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com]! https://www.buildingfamiliesfortomorrow.com/ Loved this episode? Make sure to follow, rate, and review the podcast. Because when you cultivate thinking that matters, you live a life that matters. ________ 💡 Join the Women Growth Group for live, in-person training that empowers your potential and connects you with a vibrant community of growth-minded women! https://linktr.ee/gowithelizabeth [https://linktr.ee/gowithelizabeth] Stay connected with Elizabeth on social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elizabethbmahusay [https://www.facebook.com/elizabethbmahusay] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ebmahusay/ [https://www.instagram.com/ebmahusay/] Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ElizabethMahusay [https://www.youtube.com/@ElizabethMahusay] Website: https://elizabethmahusay.com/ [https://elizabethmahusay.com/]   ___________________ Don’t let another day slip by on autopilot. Pick Your Path gives you the roadmap to create lasting change. Get your copy now and put your plan into motion!  https://www.amazon.com/Pick-Your-Path-Mental-Autopilot-ebook/dp/B0D6NGKLJP Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com [https://pcm.adswizz.com] for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How Do You Rediscover Identity, Connection, and Purpose When Life Enters a Completely New Season With Vesta Schneider

What happens when life enters a new season and the identity that once grounded you no longer fully fits? In this episode of Thinking That Matters, I sit down with Vesta Schneider for a deeply honest conversation about identity shifts, vulnerability, meaningful relationships, faith, and learning how to rediscover yourself through honest conversation and intentional community. From immigrating to America from Lithuania to navigating motherhood, business ownership, and personal growth, Vesta shares the mindset shifts that changed how she approaches life, relationships, and purpose. This conversation explores why so many people struggle with surface-level connection, fear judgment, and avoid vulnerability and how real growth begins when we choose honesty, curiosity, and deeper conversation. Together, we unpack identity transitions, communication, faith, parenting, leadership, and the power of reframing your story. We Talk About: * navigating identity shifts after motherhood changes * immigrating to America and adapting to a new culture * why vulnerability is necessary for real connection * how assumptions quietly destroy relationships * the importance of honest communication in business and life * reframing difficult experiences instead of staying stuck in them * discovering faith through curiosity and personal experience * why meaningful community requires depth and honesty In a world filled with surface-level interaction and constant performance, this episode reminds us that meaningful growth happens through honest conversation, self-awareness, and intentional connection. Cultivating thinking that matters means learning how to move beyond fear, judgment, and isolation so we can build healthier relationships, stronger communities, and deeper personal clarity.   MORE ABOUT VESTA:  Vesta Schneider is a realtor, investor, mother, and active member of the McKinney community. After immigrating to the United States from Lithuania at 21 years old, Vesta built a life centered around family, entrepreneurship, and meaningful relationships. Her story reflects resilience, curiosity, and a growing commitment to authentic connection, personal growth, and faith.  If you’re looking for a realtor who values honest communication, real relationships, and helping people feel confident through every step of the process, connect with Vesta Schneider through her website to learn more.  http://vestaschneiderhomes.com [http://vestaschneiderhomes.com]   LOVED THIS EPISODE? Make sure to follow, rate, and review the podcast. It helps us reach more people who want to grow, lead, and think differently. Because when you cultivate thinking that matters, you live a life that matters.  ________ 💡 Join the Women Growth Group for live, in-person training that empowers your potential and connects you with a vibrant community of growth-minded women! https://linktr.ee/gowithelizabeth [https://linktr.ee/gowithelizabeth] Stay connected with Elizabeth on social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elizabethbmahusay [https://www.facebook.com/elizabethbmahusay] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ebmahusay/ [https://www.instagram.com/ebmahusay/] Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ElizabethMahusay [https://www.youtube.com/@ElizabethMahusay] Website: https://elizabethmahusay.com/ [https://elizabethmahusay.com/] _________ Don’t let another day slip by on autopilot. Pick Your Path gives you the roadmap to create lasting change. Get your copy now and put your plan into motion!  https://www.amazon.com/Pick-Your-Path-Mental-Autopilot-ebook/dp/B0D6NGKLJP Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com [https://pcm.adswizz.com] for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Are You the Bottleneck in Your Own Growth? with Ashley Bledsoe

What happens when the biggest obstacle in your business… is your own thinking? In this conversation, I welcome back Ashley Bledsoe, founder of Bledsoe Hydromulch, to reflect on what has changed over the last two years not just in business growth, but in mindset, leadership, and decision-making. As Ashley’s company expanded from residential projects into large-scale commercial work, she began recognizing a difficult truth: she had become the bottleneck in her own business. Together, we unpack the tension many leaders quietly face- wanting growth while still operating from a mindset built for survival, safety, or smaller responsibilities. We explore how fear can disguise itself as caution, why clarity often comes after action instead of before it, and how accountability and communication can strengthen both leadership and marriage when building a business together. This episode is a thoughtful reminder that transformation rarely starts with strategy alone. Sometimes it begins by asking whether the way we think is still aligned with where we say we want to go. Key Conversation Highlights * Ashley’s realization that slow decision-making was limiting the growth of her business * The transition from small residential projects to large commercial developments and solar farms * Why the brain naturally resists discomfort even when growth requires it * The importance of focusing on outcomes instead of obsessing over problems * How accountability and honest communication strengthened Ashley and her husband’s working relationship * Small practical shifts that can help rewire daily thinking patterns and mindset REFLECTION QUESTIONS: * Where in your life or leadership are you waiting for certainty before taking action? * Have you outgrown a mindset that once helped you survive? * Are you spending more energy focusing on problems… or outcomes? More about Ashley: Ashley Bledsoe is the founder of Bledsoe Hydromulch, a company specializing in erosion control and hydromulching services for residential and commercial projects. Over the last several years, Ashley has expanded the business into large-scale commercial developments while navigating the personal growth required to lead at a new level. She is passionate about mindset, accountability, and building a business rooted in both resilience and practical action. CONNECT WITH HER: Website: https://bledsoehydromulch.com/ [https://bledsoehydromulch.com/] Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BledsoeHydromulchTx [https://www.facebook.com/BledsoeHydromulchTx] Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bledsoehydromulch [https://www.tiktok.com/@bledsoehydromulch] If this conversation challenged the way you think about growth, leadership, or the role mindset plays in your decisions, share this episode with someone who may need the reminder. Be sure to subscribe to Thinking That Matters and continue the conversation with us as we explore the thoughts that shape how we lead, live, and grow.  Because when you cultivate thinking that matters, you live a life that matters.  ________ 💡 Join the Women Growth Group for live, in-person training that empowers your potential and connects you with a vibrant community of growth-minded women! https://linktr.ee/gowithelizabeth [https://linktr.ee/gowithelizabeth] Stay connected with Elizabeth on social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elizabethbmahusay [https://www.facebook.com/elizabethbmahusay] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ebmahusay/ [https://www.instagram.com/ebmahusay/] Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ElizabethMahusay [https://www.youtube.com/@ElizabethMahusay] Website: https://elizabethmahusay.com/ [https://elizabethmahusay.com/]   ________________ Don’t let another day slip by on autopilot. Pick Your Path gives you the roadmap to create lasting change. Get your copy now and put your plan into motion!  https://www.amazon.com/Pick-Your-Path-Mental-Autopilot-ebook/dp/B0D6NGKLJP Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com [https://pcm.adswizz.com] for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Navigating Menopause: Products That Work and Those That Don’t with Trish Littlejohn

Ever bought something hoping it would “fix” your menopause symptoms… only to be disappointed? In this episode, we’re getting real about the products we’ve tried during perimenopause and menopause, what didn’t work, what surprised us, and what’s actually been helpful. We talk about everything from red light therapy and supplements to skincare and hydration and how hormones, cortisol, and consistency play a bigger role than we expected. If you’re feeling frustrated with changes in your body or overwhelmed by all the options out there, this conversation is for you. Products mentioned: * Live Pure (metabolism supplement) * Red light therapy devices * ROC Retinol Neck Cream * Castor oil (cold-pressed) * Amare “Happy Juice” (Edge + Mentabiotics) * Eye patches / under-eye gels Disclaimer: This episode is based on personal experiences and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before trying new products. LOVED THIS EPISODE? Follow, rate, and review Thinking That Matters so more people can discover conversations that inspire growth, leadership, and a new way of thinking. Because when you cultivate thinking that matters, you live a life that matters. ________ 💡 Join the Women Growth Group for live, in-person training that empowers your potential and connects you with a vibrant community of growth-minded women! https://linktr.ee/gowithelizabeth [https://linktr.ee/gowithelizabeth] Stay connected with Elizabeth on social media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elizabethbmahusay [https://www.facebook.com/elizabethbmahusay] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ebmahusay/ [https://www.instagram.com/ebmahusay/] Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ElizabethMahusay [https://www.youtube.com/@ElizabethMahusay] Website: https://elizabethmahusay.com/ [https://elizabethmahusay.com/] _________ Don’t let another day slip by on autopilot. Pick Your Path gives you the roadmap to create lasting change. Get your copy now and put your plan into motion!  https://www.amazon.com/Pick-Your-Path-Mental-Autopilot-ebook/dp/B0D6NGKLJP Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com [https://pcm.adswizz.com] for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.