Authenticity Over Approval

Authentic Self Discovery with Jennifer MacNiven

In this week’s episode of Authenticity Over Approval, I am thrilled to sit down with the incredibly delightful Jennifer MacNiven, as we delve into her profound discovery of authenticity, approval, and the transformative power of embracing one’s true self. Jennifer opens up about her unique journey from a childhood filled with the challenges of military family life to finding her true calling in photography and a nomadic lifestyle, eventually planting roots in Boulder with a beautiful bonus family. Together, we explore the paths of self-discovery, the courage it takes to step away from societal expectations, and the joy of living life on one's own terms. Jennifer shares her personal struggles with seeking approval and the freedom she’s found in expressing herself through her passions and connections within the ecstatic dance community. I reflect on my own experiences of the liberation felt in moments free from others' judgments, and the importance of allowing space for vulnerability. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of what it means to live authentically, the impact of societal pressure on our sense of self, and the beautiful journey towards embracing who we truly are, without the weight of approval from others. About Our Guest Jen MacNiven is a passionate branding photographer who loves capturing the valuable details, essence, personality and authenticity of people and their brands. After leaving a 13-year biomedical corporate career, Jen’s side passion of photography became a full-time job going on 10 years now. She has had the opportunity to photograph in some of the most exotic places…rice fields and beaches of Bali, mountains of Peru, Europe, Australia’s coastal towns, the busy streets of Morocco, the stunning Pacific NW and the majestic Colorado Mountains. Jen shares her travel and transformational soulful journey in the book she authored, “Mind Body Soulmate” in which she helps others step out of the proverbial box, find more joy, deepening a connection with self, others and truly finding self-love. You can find her online at http://jennifermacniven.com/

Authentic Adaptation: Thriving in Unfamiliar Terrain with Bethany Howard

In this week’s episode of "Authenticity Over Approval," I sit down with author and speaker Bethany Howard to explore the complexities of embracing authenticity in the midst of significant life changes. Recently relocated from Atlanta to Connecticut, Bethany shares candidly about the challenges of adjusting to a new environment, the pressures of seeking approval in unfamiliar places, and the journey towards self-discovery and personal growth. Through her narrative, listeners will glean insights into the importance of showing up as oneself, the value of patience and self-awareness in new settings, and the courage required to live authentically regardless of external expectations. This episode promises a deep dive into how embracing one's true self can lead to profound connections and a more fulfilling life, even when it means standing alone. About Our Guest Bethany writes to encourage others to find their fierce and to embrace her own. She shares permission slips to run towards what you are made for in her book “Permission Granted: Embrace Who You Are, Cultivate Courage, Impact Your World”. If you were to visit her unannounced there’s a good chance you would find her jamming to music in a messy kitchen while looking for a crunchy snack and avoiding the dishes. Don’t worry, she would invite you in for snacks and laughs. Website www.bethanyhoward.com [http://www.bethanyhoward.com] Social Media https://www.instagram.com/bethanypermissiongranted/ [https://www.instagram.com/bethanypermissiongranted/]

Authentic Maturity: Navigating Self and Society

In this heartfelt episode of Authenticity Over Approval, I sit down with the inspiring Shelley Fourney to dive deep into the realms of authenticity and the challenging journey of letting go of approval, especially within the context of mental health work. Shelley shares her transformative shift from prioritizing the needs and approval of others to embracing her own self-awareness and personal growth, a journey mirrored in my own explorations of seeking what truly fulfills me. Together, we celebrate the liberating process of being true to ourselves, shedding the constraints of societal expectations, and the joy of expressing our individuality in all aspects of life. We also touch on the complexities of people-pleasing, the dynamics of attraction in relationships, and the impact of gaining self-awareness on forming healthier connections. About My Guest Shelley Fourney is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Solution Focused Practitioner. Shelley has been working in the Mental Health Field since 1993. She began her experience working with children and teens. In 1998 Shelley spent several years at home raising her children and homeschooling. Over the last 10 years Shelley has worked with various ages and a wide range of situations, including crisis work. She works with clients children through adults. Her experience enables her to work with individuals, families, and couples. You can find her at http://www.intentionalsteps.us/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/shelleysintentionalsteps/

Authentic Balance with Jessica Pero

Authentic Balance: The Quest for Identity, Authenticity, and Well-being In this empowering episode, Jessica Pero shares her compelling narrative of balancing the demands of motherhood, career, and personal identity in a world that often seems to demand everything or nothing. Through her transition from a high-powered career to embracing the joys and challenges of being a stay-at-home mom, Jessica delves into the deep waters of identity, authenticity, and the exhaustion that comes from seeking approval and trying to meet external expectations. This intimate conversation sheds light on the importance of finding equilibrium in life's roles, the transformative power of living authentically, and the courage required to prioritize personal growth and self-care. Key takeaways include the significance of establishing balance to enhance well-being, the liberation found in transitioning from pleasing others to embracing one's true self, and the positive ripple effects of authentic communication within personal and family relationships. Jessica's journey is a beacon for anyone looking to navigate their own path with patience, care, and authenticity.   About Our Guest I am a woman that has taken many divergent paths. I dropped out of college in 2012 (25 yrs old) and got married. A year later I had a baby. At the age of 27 I opened up my own home health care company. I was successful for nearly 3 years but the rise of marijuana in 2015 left me homeless and buried under a mountain of life. I picked myself up in 2016, got my real estate license and struggled my 1st year. I didn't want to work with "emotional" people. My real estate training thus far was working with investors, but the market became a seller's market and deals with them were dwindling. I divorced my husband in 2019 and remarried the same year. I now have a wonderful husband, two more baby boys and a career that I love. After my second baby was born I went through my mid life crisis. My husband became the bread winner. I became a stay-at-home mom. The transition was very difficult but after 36 sessions of therapy I have been resurrected. The path here was in no way easy, but I made it. You can find Jessica on http://jpstorywriter.com/ and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/jessica.pero.723/

Authentic Self-Awareness with Cheri Gregory

In this week's episode of Authenticity Over Approval, Lori's guest, Cheri Gregory, delves into her journey as an Enneagram type 2 and highly sensitive person, exploring the nuances of transitioning from a life of seeking approval through meeting others' needs to one of self-care and attentiveness to her own needs. You will learn the value of acknowledging and responding to your body's cues, the importance of genuine apologies and the power of listening without defense. Cheri's candid discussion on the multifaceted nature of who you are is a reminder that authenticity does not equate to perfection but encompasses the whole spectrum of human experience, including your struggles and vulnerabilities. Through Cheri's experiences, you will gain insights into embracing your multifaceted selves, understanding that authenticity allows for growth and change depending on the scenario, and recognizing the strength in vulnerability and self-compassion.   Mentioned In This Episode HSP – Highly Sensitive Persons [https://sensitiveandstrong.com/] Enneagram [https://www.enneagraminstitute.com/] The Fear Of Disappointing Others [https://cherigregory.com/fear-of-disappointing-others/]   About Our Guest Through Scripture and storytelling, Cheri Gregory delights in helping women draw closer to Jesus, the strength of every tender heart. She is the founder of the Sensitive and Strong Community Cafe: the place for the HSP Christian woman to find connection. She's the co-author, with Denise J. Hughes, of Sensitive & Strong: a Guide for Highly Sensitive Persons and Those Who Love Them. And with Kathi Lipp, she’s the co-author of You Don’t Have to Try So Hard, Overwhelmed, and An Abundant Place. Cheri speaks locally and internationally for women’s events and educational conferences. You can find her online at https://cherigregory.com/ [https://cherigregory.com/].