SHUT UP and Smile!

Finding Your Voice Through “Bad Poetry”: Healing Trauma, Shame & Silence with Margaret Bryden

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2255507/fan_mail/new] In this heartfelt and deeply empowering episode of Shut Up and Smile, host Nancy Kohne sits down with licensed clinical mental health counselor and author Margaret Bryden to explore the connection between poetry, trauma healing, self-expression, and resilience. Margaret shares her unconventional journey from studying linguistics and working in HR leadership to becoming a therapist and author of How I Understand It: A Bad Poet’s Guide to Mental Health and Resilience.  The conversation centers around the healing power of “bad poetry” — a concept Margaret uses to encourage authenticity over perfection. She explains how poetry creates a safe space for people to process trauma, untangle emotions, and reconnect with themselves without the pressure of being polished or perfect. Together, Nancy and Margaret discuss how trauma fragments a person’s ability to form a coherent narrative, why shame often teaches people to stay silent, and how creative expression can help rebuild emotional safety and self-trust.

'Unbroken Life Outside the Lines" with Adrienne Caldwell

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2255507/fan_mail/new] In this episode of Shut Up and Smile, host Nancy Kohne speaks with Adriene Caldwell, author of 'Unbroken Life Outside the Lines.' They discuss Adriene's journey through trauma, her experiences in foster care, and the impact of her childhood on her adult life. Adriene shares her motivations for writing her book, the importance of healing, and the power of storytelling. The conversation emphasizes resilience, personal growth, and the significance of making amends in the healing process.

Part II - Breaking the Cycle with Margaret Stone

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2255507/fan_mail/new] In this conversation, Nancy, Keery and Margaret discuss the complexities of dating, particularly focusing on the challenges women face when navigating relationships with narcissists and emotionally abusive partners. They explore the importance of recognizing green flags, understanding the difference between nice guys and good guys, and the significance of self-love and boundaries in fostering healthy relationships. Margaret shares her personal experiences and insights on healing from trauma, emphasizing the need for women to step back and allow men to pursue them, while also highlighting the dangers of emotional manipulation. The discussion culminates in a powerful message about the journey from brokenness to empowerment, encouraging women to seek support and prioritize their well-being.

Part I - Breaking the Cycle with Margaret Stone

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2255507/fan_mail/new] In this powerful episode of Shut Up and Smile, your hosts Nancy and Keery sit down with Margaret Stone—a licensed clinical therapist turned no-nonsense dating coach for women. Margaret specializes in helping women break free from toxic relationship cycles, including narcissistic abuse, love bombing, and anxious attachment. With her signature tough-love style, Margaret walks us through her non-negotiable coaching framework, sheds light on the red flags too many women ignore, and explains how feminine power is key to reclaiming emotional freedom. From healing childhood wounds to navigating modern dating with clarity and confidence, this episode is packed with real talk, relatable insights, and empowering truth bombs. If you’ve ever felt stuck in a pattern of “dating the wrong men” or questioned whether lasting love is still possible after trauma—this conversation is for you.

“Healing on All Levels: Blanca Rodriguez’s Journey of Body, Heart & Voice”

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2255507/fan_mail/new] In this inspiring episode, host Nancy Kohne welcomes the dynamic Blanca Rodriguez, CEO of Wounded Healer, LLC. Blanca wears many healing hats—massage therapist (for both people and pets!), certified fitness instructor, Amazon best-selling co-author, speaker, podcaster, and holistic life coach. Together, they explore: * The meaning behind “Wounded Healer” and how Blanca’s personal journey shaped her mission * How she integrates physical, emotional, and spiritual healing in her coaching * Her powerful evolution into public speaking through Toastmasters—in both English and Spanish * The heart-driven community work she does with survivors, senior dogs, and no-kill shelters * Advice for bilingual women and immigrant communities who feel called to heal and lead From trauma to transformation, Blanca’s story is one of purpose, visibility, and compassion. Tune in for an honest, uplifting conversation filled with healing, heart, and hope. 🗣️ Bianca always offer our listeners some "free life coaching" so don't miss it! 💜 Visit us at shutupandsmile.com [http://shutupandsmile.com] 📩 Write us at: shutupandsmilelive@gmail.com 🛑 If you or someone you know is experiencing abuse, please seek help. You are not alone. Until next time, never shut up—and smile on.