When the Spark Fades: Choosing Change Over Comfort

Our Soul Trip Is Booked, Spain, Ibiza, and Portugal

EPISODE 46: This week feels like a shift in energy, and you can hear it in this episode. I’m back in the studio with Fran for an honest, in-the-moment check-in about where we really are in our lives. No filters, no pretending, just two people navigating growth, change, and everything in between. We dive into dating and accountability, sharing stories, experiences, and moments that had us laughing, reflecting, and questioning things all at once. Dating can be a mix of excitement, awkwardness, and self-discovery, and we leaned fully into it. I also open up about my experience with EMDR and how it is creating real change in my life. It’s not about being “fixed,” but about becoming more aware, grounded, and aligned. And the big news—our soul trip! A journey that feels intentional, transformative, and full of growth. We booked it right after recording, starting in Barcelona, spending the weekend in Ibiza, and then flying to Portugal to explore before heading home. Turning this dream into reality was exhilarating and reminded us of the power of action. This episode is about being in your flow, staying present, embracing your true self, and finding joy in both the silly and serious moments. Real life is messy, exciting, and unpredictable, and it is yours to enjoy. Wellness Spotlight: I’ve been loving Bon Charge products lately, especially their red light mask. I use it every single night and have been seeing amazing results. It also helps calm me down and prepare for a deep, restful sleep. Use code TME15 for 15% off. Follow Fran: Find her on Instagram and TikTok at @francesca_nina_hair. Upcoming Trip Preview: We will be starting our soul trip in Barcelona, spending the weekend in Ibiza, and then exploring Portugal before heading back home. We are so excited to share this adventure with you soon. Key Takeaways: This episode is a reminder to show up for yourself and your growth, lean into self-discovery and new experiences, turn dreams into action, and find joy in both the goofy and the deeper moments.

Spring Energy and New Horizons: Travel and Transformation

EPSISODE 45: In this short solo episode, I am sharing where I am right now with the podcast, my goals, and how I have been feeling lately. There is something about this time of year that brings a fresh sense of energy, and I really feel like I am stepping into a season of transformation. I open up about where I feel stuck, what I am working through, and how I am learning to move forward with more intention. I also share some exciting life updates, including booking my big trip to Spain and Portugal, which I cannot wait for. These solo episodes are starting to feel like an online diary, a space where I can be real, reflect, and grow while bringing you along for the journey. I will also be sharing more soon about EMDR and how it has been impacting my life in such a positive way. *If you are looking to support your wellness routine, I have been loving Bon Charge products lately, especially their red light mask. I use it every single night and have been seeing amazing results. It also helps calm me down and get me ready for a deep, restful night of sleep. You can use my code TME15 for 15% off!

Dennis’ Journey of Creativity, Entrepreneurship, and Recovery

EPISODE 4: This week on TheMarissaEffect, we had the privilege of chatting with Dennis—an unstoppable creative force 🎨, serial entrepreneur 🚀, and all-around powerhouse. If you’ve ever thought about starting something new—whether it's a business, a passion project, or a creative adventure—this episode is for you. Dennis doesn’t just dip his toes into creativity—he lives and breathes it. With multiple businesses under his belt, he’s got an incredible instinct for spotting opportunities where others might not. His entrepreneurial journey will light a fire under you 🔥, and his energy is so contagious, you'll be ready to take that leap into something new by the end of the episode. But it’s not just about business success—Dennis also shares his personal transformation. He recently celebrated 16 years of sobriety 🎉, and his story is one of resilience, change, and hope. He opens up about the darkest times of his life and how he rebuilt himself—proof that no matter where you start, you have the power to reinvent your story at any moment 💡. Dennis’ honesty and drive remind us that creativity, business, and personal growth go hand in hand. Sometimes, the toughest chapters lead to the most beautiful transformations. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation. Tune in to TheMarissaEffect and let Dennis’ journey motivate you to embrace change, spark your creativity, and discover the endless possibilities of a fresh start. 🎧✨

When the Spark Fades: Choosing Change Over Comfort

EPISODE 44: In this episode, we talk about feeling disconnected from a career that once felt right, navigating the guilt that comes with wanting change, and recognizing when your passion starts to fade. Natalie shares her journey from teaching to making a life shift, including the practical steps she took to begin her transition and the importance of having a support system. We also discuss how conversations and shared experiences can be empowering and why embracing change is a necessary part of growth.This episode is a reminder that you are allowed to change your path. If you are feeling stuck, uninspired, or unsure of what is next, this conversation offers perspective, reassurance, and encouragement to take that first step. Affiliate Note:Boncharge’s red light therapy in this episode. I love their facemask soooooo much! I use it every night before bed! You can use my affiliate code TME15 for 15% off your order. Connect with Natalie:Follow Natalie on Instagram and TikTok: @move.withnatalie

Stepping Forward in 2026: EMDR, Goals, and Getting Visible

EPISODE 43: This week’s episode is a solo check-in. I share honestly about where I’m at and the shifts I’m making in 2026. I talk about starting EMDR therapy, what the process has been like, and why I felt ready to be open about it. I also share my goals and creative ideas for the year and how I want to show up more fully and authentically on social media. This episode is about stepping into the driver’s seat of my life and this podcast. Featured in this episode is Bon Charge Red Light Therapy, which I love SO MUCH! Bon Charge offers at-home red light therapy devices that support recovery, circulation, skin health, and energy. Use code TME15 for 15% off.