From Silence to Support: Breaking the Stigma Around Postpartum Mental Health

#4 - The Naked Truth About Sex

This is the sex ed we should’ve gotten—and the kind of conversation we need a whole lot more of! In this episode on Don't Make a Scene, Jess sit's down with certified sex therapist Ieva Gates, LCSW, CST, CHT, to unpack the invisible weight many of us carry into the bedroom. From performance anxiety to cultural shame, porn-fueled expectations to miscommunication, we explore how our early conditioning shapes our sexual identity—and how to start rewriting the script. We talk about why men often suffer silently with performance pressure, why women struggle with disconnection and self-silencing, and how “normal” is a word we need to retire when it comes to desire. Ieva shares powerful insight from her work with individuals and couples, including how tools like CBT, mindfulness, and hypnotherapy can help rewire the brain for safety, pleasure, and authenticity. Whether you're navigating mismatched desire, exploring kink, healing from shame, or simply trying to have better conversations about sex—this one is for you. Connect with Ieva on ⁠Psychology Today⁠ [https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/ieva-gates-montclair-nj/930083]!

What Do I Want? Reclaiming Life After Abuse

In this episode, Jessica Olsen sits down with Kristi Jimenez-Larson, former financial advisor and founder of Risk It, for an unfiltered conversation about reclaiming your life on your own terms. Kristi opens up about her journey of redefining success—moving beyond money, status, and external approval to embrace personal freedom, self-trust, and the safety of being authentically herself. She shares how years of emotional and physical abuse eroded her confidence and sense of self, trapping her in cycles that felt impossible to break. This conversation explores what abuse actually does to you: how it isolates you, rewrites your internal dialogue, and keeps you afraid to ask the most fundamental question—What do I want? Kristi speaks candidly about the moment she finally began asking that question and how, step by step, she rebuilt her life around the answer. If you've ever felt stuck, silenced, or uncertain about how to begin again, this episode will meet you exactly where you are. It's about finding your voice, extending yourself grace, and discovering that walking away isn't failure—it's the first step toward freedom. Follow Kristi's journey on Instagram @riskitwithkristi.

Unfiltered Motherhood: Strength, Self-Care, and Navigating Life’s Transitions

In this special Mother’s Day episode, I sit down with the inspiring Briana Masiello, a mother of three boys, to talk about the raw and beautiful realities of motherhood. Bri shares her personal journey—from college to motherhood—and how she learned to trust her intuition in a world full of noise. We reflect on the evolution of our friendship, the importance of independence, and the complexities of relationships, while diving deep into the challenges and triumphs of motherhood. Briana opens up about her experiences with home births, the transition from two to three children, and the pain of losing her own mother, which made her grow up fast. She talks about the weight of criticism during vulnerable seasons, the importance of self-care, and overcoming mom guilt. Throughout this conversation, we explore how to show up authentically for your family, even when it’s hard, and the strength found in navigating personal journeys together. This episode isn’t just about parenting—it’s about trusting your gut, building a supportive community, and redefining motherhood on your own terms. Bri reminds us that motherhood isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence, courage, and doing it all with heart. If you’ve ever felt alone or needed a reminder that you’re doing better than you think, this one’s for you. Bri’s wisdom and vulnerability will leave you inspired and grounded.

From Silence to Support: Breaking the Stigma Around Postpartum Mental Health

Jess Olsen and Monica Garcia discuss their personal experiences with motherhood, focusing on the challenges of postpartum mental health, including postpartum anxiety, depression and OCD. They emphasize the importance of community support and open dialogue among mothers to navigate these experiences. Monica shares her journey into specializing in peri- and postnatal therapy, highlighting the need for understanding and support in the postpartum period.

Challenging the Script: An Introduction to Don't Make A Scene

In this episode of 'Don't Make a Scene,' host Jess Olsen invites listeners into a space of authenticity and vulnerability. She discusses the importance of challenging societal norms around motherhood, beauty, and emotional expression. Jessica shares her personal journey of healing and empowerment, emphasizing the need to find one's voice and create a safe environment for open conversations. The podcast aims to foster connection, growth, and joy through deep, honest discussions.