EP 44: How Trauma Turned Into Addiction — And How He Found His Way Back

EP 45: Breaking the Money Stories Holding You Back w/ The Spicy CEO

What did your parents teach you about money? Whether you grew up believing money was scarce, something to fear, or something that caused conflict, those early experiences often shape how we earn, spend, save, invest, and even communicate in our relationships today. In this episode of Unraveled & Rising, we sit down with entrepreneur, author, and business coach Jen Perez to explore the emotional side of money—and why changing your financial future often starts by changing your mindset. We discuss: How childhood shapes your relationship with money The money beliefs we inherit from our families Why money is one of the leading causes of conflict in relationships How shame, fear, and scarcity influence financial decisions Practical ways to create healthier money habits Why financial freedom starts with self-awareness Jen brings a fresh, fun, and unconventional perspective to business and personal growth, helping entrepreneurs and small business owners break old patterns so they can build lives and businesses they truly enjoy. If you've ever argued about money, felt guilty spending it, or wondered why your finances never seem to change, this conversation will help you understand why—and what you can do about it. Learn more about Jen Perez and her work at The Spicy CEO:https://thespicyceo.com/ Buy her book: 69 Ways Money is Like Sex: Spicy Insights for Streamlining Your Business Financeshttps://a.co/d/0gbVkDvC

EP 44: How Trauma Turned Into Addiction — And How He Found His Way Back

At 12 years old, Kyle Fajen began using substances to escape emotional pain he didn't know how to process. After a serious car accident at 18 led to opioid prescriptions, what started as relief quickly became addiction. Over the next several years, Kyle's life spiraled into darkness as he used drugs to avoid the trauma, pain, and emotions he couldn't face. Even when his body was beginning to shut down, he couldn't stop. In this powerful episode of Unraveled & Rising, Kyle shares the moment he realized he was powerless over addiction—and how that realization became the first step toward recovery. Through the Stout Street Foundation, Kyle found something he never expected: a community that helped him confront his past, heal unresolved trauma, and learn how to build a new life. We discuss: • The connection between trauma and addiction • Why substance abuse is often a survival strategy • The shame and stigma surrounding recovery • What it feels like to feel powerless • The power of community in healing • Why recovery is about so much more than quitting drugs If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, substance abuse, or emotional pain, we hope this conversation reminds you that recovery is possible and that you are not alone. Learn more about the Stout Street Foundation in Colorado: https://www.stoutstreet.org/ 988 Call or Chat - Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Languages: English, Spanish Hours: 24/7 https://988lifeline.org/

EP 43: Why Are Women So Hard on Themselves?

Have you ever reacted to something and wondered, "Why did that affect me so much?"In this episode, Michelle and Terry explore the experiences so many women share—but often think they're carrying alone.From people-pleasing and mom guilt to self-criticism and putting everyone else's needs ahead of our own, we discuss how our childhood experiences, family dynamics, and early beliefs continue to influence how we see ourselves and respond to life today.Most importantly, we talk about giving ourselves grace.Because many of the struggles we carry aren't personal failures—they're learned responses that helped us survive at one point in our lives.When we understand where these reactions come from, we can stop judging ourselves and start healing.And when women share their stories, something powerful happens: we realize we're not alone.If you've ever been too hard on yourself, struggled to put yourself first, or wondered why you keep falling into the same emotional patterns, this conversation is for you.Don't forget to visit our website to leave a letter to your younger self. We would love to read it: https://unraveledandrising.com/

EP 42: Mother’s Day Isn’t Joyful for Everyone

Mother’s Day can bring up a lot more than flowers and brunch.In this honest and emotional conversation, Michelle and Kimberly open up about the unexpected feelings they both experienced around Mother’s Day — without even realizing the other was struggling too.Because the truth is… many mother/child relationships are complicated.We talk about:Emotional distance between parents and adult childrenWhy younger generations often feel less connected to familyThe growing rise of family estrangementGrief, disappointment, and loneliness around Mother’s DayHow social media can make these feelings even harderWays to care for yourself emotionallyIf Mother’s Day felt heavy for you this year, you are definitely not alone.This episode is a reminder that complicated family relationships are more common than people admit — and healing starts with talking honestly about them.Comment if you experienced something similar.

EP 41: The Emotional & Financial Stress of the Sandwich Generation

What happens when you’re still supporting your kids… while suddenly becoming responsible for aging parents too? In this honest conversation, Kimberly and Terry share their experiences with the “sandwich generation” — navigating adult children, divorce, medical issues, aging parents, burnout, overwhelm, and the pressure of holding everything together. We also discuss: “Parent dumps” happening at hospitals more often Financial strain and caregiver burnout The emotional impact of caring for parents Why so many people feel exhausted, anxious, and alone right now If you’ve been carrying the weight of everyone else’s needs, this episode will make you feel seen. 🧡 Kimberly also recommends this free assessment tool for families navigating aging parent care: https://agingparentstoolkit.com/