Ep. 138 If your plate feels more like a buffet of burnout than a balanced meal, it’s time to clear it. In this empowering episode of the Healthy Illness Podcast, host Kelly Marie walks you through how to take honest inventory of your life—what’s feeding your purpose and what’s draining your peace. From her leadership training in the Health Leader Fellowship Program to her mindfulness studies at Brown University, Kelly shares real strategies for knowing when you’ve got too much on your plate, how to categorize what stays, what goes, and how to confidently say no without guilt. 🎙️ Hosted by Coach Kelly Marie, founder of Front Seat Life LLC 📲 Instagram @‌thefrontseatlife FB @‌thefrontseatlife, Email KellyMarie@FrontSeatLife.com 🎧 Produced & edited by JazzCast Pros Key Takeaways: ✅ Inventory Everything – List every role, responsibility, and relationship demanding your energy.✅ Spot “The Grip” – Recognize when stress has you acting outside your best self.✅ Separate Needs from Preferences – Identify what must be done by you vs. what simply needs to get done.✅ Define Non-Negotiables – Keep what sustains you: work, self-care, and basic needs.✅ Release What Doesn’t Fit – If it no longer serves your peace, it doesn’t belong on your plate.✅ Refill Intentionally – Once you clear your plate, only add back what truly nourishes your life. Crisis helpline phone numbers: Dial 988 for immediate assistance or 741741 for text support Use 211 as the helpline for resources 🔗 Click Here to rate & review on Apple Podcasts 🚀 Rate & Share this Podcast from Spotify 🔐 Add this show to your collection on Pandora. 💪 Support the Show with a one-time donation on PayPal #HealthyIllnessPodcast #MentalHealthAwareness #Boundaries #SelfCareIsSuccess #AlignedEntrepreneur Chapters: 0:00 Managing Overcommitment 4:15 Balancing Multiple Roles and Responsibilities in Daily Life 7:54 Trauma Awareness, and Teaching Practices 10:14 Prioritizing and Letting Go 17:46 Accessing Crisis Support and Community Resources Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 137 Building a business should never come at the expense of your well-being. In this special live episode of the Healthy Illness Podcast, Kelly Marie is joined by Dr. Latricia Davis, Detra Trueheart and a live studio audience to explore how entrepreneurs can build businesses that honor their mental and emotional health. Success doesn’t have to mean exhaustion. Together, Kelly, Dr. Davis, and Detra unpack the ways that structure, self-awareness, and boundaries can protect your peace while growing your enterprise. 💡 Key Takeaways: How to perform a “resiliency check-in” to assess your spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being Practical ways to build boundaries into your daily workflow Why delegating tasks isn’t giving up control—it’s investing in your growth and community How to prepare mentally and structurally for rapid business growth This episode is for every entrepreneur ready to do business differently—by putting mental health first. 📺 Watch the full live replay on YouTube: JazzCast Pros Channel📞 If you or someone you know needs support, dial 988 for 24/7 confidential mental health assistance. 🎙️ Hosted by Coach Kelly Marie, founder of Front Seat Life LLC 📲 Instagram @‌thefrontseatlife FB @‌thefrontseatlife, Email KellyMarie@FrontSeatLife.com 🎧 Produced & edited by JazzCast Pros 🔗 Click Here to rate & review on Apple Podcasts 🚀 Rate & Share this Podcast from Spotify 🔐 Add this show to your collection on Pandora. 💪 Support the Show with a one-time donation on PayPal Chapters 0:00 Welcome to Healthy Illness Live at WXXI Studios 0:45 Meet Dr. Latricia Clarissa Davis and Detra Trueheart 2:15 Why Mental Health Matters in Entrepreneurship 3:40 The Power of Boundaries and Self Check-Ins 5:10 Rest as a Leadership Strategy 6:00 Permission to Protect Your Peace 7:20 Setting Standards and Limiting Access 8:25 Creating White Space in Your Schedule 10:00 The Cost of Doing It All Yourself 12:10 Delegating to Support Others and Yourself 14:20 How to Hire Help and Still Grow 16:40 Preparing for Sudden Business Growth 17:45 Mindset Shifts for Scaling Up 20:00 Lessons from Dr. Davis’ Entrepreneurial Journey 22:30 Knowing When to Let Go and Pivot 24:20 Burnout, Boundaries, and the Power of Pause 25:20 Final Reflections and Mental Health Resources Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 136 When moldy dishes and wardrobe meltdowns become red flags, it’s time to check in. In this raw and eye-opening episode of Healthy Illness, Coach Kelly Marie gets brutally honest about her mental health journey — the good, the bad, and the ugly. After weeks of struggle, a therapy session gave her just enough motivation to face the sink… only to discover mold on the dishes. The next day, a battle with her own reflection revealed something deeper: when clothes stop “looking right,” it’s not about fashion — it’s a warning sign. Kelly opens up about how she uses checklists to monitor her mood and behavior, helping her identify the early signs of a depressive episode and Borderline Personality Disorder flare-ups before they spiral. Her story reminds listeners that recognizing your triggers and tracking your patterns can be lifesaving tools on the path to healing. 🎧 Join Kelly as she drives from the back seat to the front seat of her life — one honest conversation at a time. Resources Mentioned: Call 211 or visit www.211.org for local support services Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call 988 Crisis Text Line: Text GO to 741741 Listen to Fatha Torch Podcast for a male perspective on mental health Connect with Kelly Marie: Email: FrontSeatLife@gmail.com Follow: IG @thefrontseatlife | FB @thefrontseatlife Produced by JazzCast Pros Podcast Network FB @JazzCastPros #MentalHealthMonday #Healing #FrontSeatLife #JazzCastPros #MentalHealthAwareness Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 135 Ever stop and ask yourself why you do things the way you do? From how you fold your laundry to how you handle your relationships—so much of what we do is inherited thinking. In this episode of Healthy Illness, host Coach Kelly Marie dives into the question we all need to ask more often: “Who said that?” Through a heartfelt story about a family recipe passed down through generations, Kelly unpacks how old habits and beliefs—whether from family, culture, or social media—can quietly dictate our decisions. Using her “Says Who” tool, she shares four simple but transformative questions to help you pause, reflect, and reclaim your own way of doing things. ✨ Key Takeaways: The “Pot Roast Principle”: how family traditions reveal unconscious conditioning 4 questions to challenge automatic thoughts and actions Why “this is how it’s always been done” can block personal growth How to choose methods, routines, and mindsets that actually serve you Permission to rewrite your own rules—with compassion and humor 💬 Try the Says Who Tool: 1️⃣ Who said I have to do it this way? 2️⃣ Why am I doing it this way? 3️⃣ How can I do this in a way that’s best for me? 4️⃣ Is this new way better, or can I think of another way to do it? Need Support? If you’re in need of mental health resources: Dial 211 for local community and support services Call or text 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (24/7 confidential help in the U.S.) 🎙️ Connect with the Show: Follow @HealthyIllnessPodcast on Instagram Subscribe to the JazzCast Pros Network for more empowering shows: www.JazzCastPros.com Share this episode with someone who’s ready to start doing things their way 💛 Chapters: 0:00 Welcome to Healthy Illness 0:51 The Pot Roast Story That Started It All 2:36 Why Do We Keep Doing Things the Same Way? 3:44 From Bike Rides to Mental Shifts 4:33 Introducing the Says Who Tool 5:00 Who Said I Have to Do It This Way? 5:31 Why Am I Doing It This Way? 6:00 How Can I Do This in a Way That’s Best for Me? 6:56 Is This New Way Better—or Not? 8:03 Why Challenging Family Traditions Feels Hard 10:00 What the Pot Roast Teaches Us About Growth 11:40 Honoring the Past While Doing What Works for You 12:44 Your Way Is the Right Way 13:49 The Four Questions Recap 14:20 Mental Health Resources You Can Use 15:02 Final Thoughts: Do What Works Best for You Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 134 When depression hits, even simple tasks feel impossible. In this episode of Healthy Illness, I reveal my go-to strategy for turning breakdowns into breakthroughs: the “Why or How” tool. It’s how I’ve learned to bank small wins, rebuild confidence, and actually start feeling better. If you’ve ever wondered: ✨ How can I manage my mental health when I’m struggling to function? ✨ What’s one simple mindset shift that can help me get unstuck? ✨ Where can I find real support and resources when it all feels too heavy? Then this one’s for you. I’ll walk you step-by-step through how I use the “Why or How” tool in my own healing journey—and how you can adapt it to fit your life. Because sometimes, the path to peace starts with one tiny win. 💛 🧠 Mental Health Resources 📞 Call 211 or visit www.211.org for help finding public services in your area 📱 Suicide Prevention Helpline: Call 988 anytime, 24/7 💬 Text GO to 741741 to reach a trained crisis counselor Hosted by Coach Kelly Marie, founder of Front Seat Life LLC 📸 IG: @thefrontseatlife 📘 FB: @thefrontseatlife 📧 Email: FrontSeatLife@gmail.com Other episodes you'll enjoy: Dirty Dishes & Wardrobe Malfunctions  I Want My Skin Back: living with Borderline Personality Disorder Handle Stress Before It Handles You Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 133 September 3, 2013 will always be a date etched in my heart. It was the day I tried to end my life. At the time, I wasn’t grateful to still be here—I was angry, confused, and hurting. Recovery didn’t look like joy at first. It looked like surviving one day at a time, learning to breathe through the pain, and slowly discovering that life could hold meaning again. In this episode of the Healthy Illness Podcast, I share what it’s like to live with that anniversary, how I prepare myself for heavy seasons, and the faith that carries me through. Matthew 5:16 reminds me to "Be the Light," even when it feels impossible. If you’ve survived a suicide attempt, please know this: you are not alone, and it’s okay if your healing doesn’t look like anyone else’s. It’s okay if gratitude comes slowly. It’s okay if you’re still figuring it out. 🌱 In this conversation, I talk about: How faith and community helped me rebuild my life Strategies for facing emotionally charged anniversaries The importance of self-care, mindfulness, and compassion Why it’s okay to find joy again 💜 If you are struggling, please reach out: dial 988 for the Suicide Prevention Lifeline. And if nothing else, let this episode remind you: your life matters, and you are meant to be here. Here are 5 practices I now hold onto: Set gentle reminders — Mark my calendar before September to check in with myself, so I’m not blindsided by the date. Be kind to yourself — I give myself permission to slow down and offer extra compassion during this time. Layer self-care — more than the daily routine, I become intentional about truly filling my cup. Release guilt with mindfulness — if I forget or don’t commemorate the day, I remind myself healing isn’t linear, and that’s okay. Reevaluate afterward — I take time to reflect: Did what I tried this year work? Do I need to adjust for next time? 🌱 These steps don’t erase the pain, but they give me tools to stay present and move forward. Most importantly, they remind me that it’s okay to enjoy life again. 🎙️ Healthy Illness Podcast Credits: Hosted by Coach Kelly Marie, founder of⁠ Front Seat Life LLC⁠ 📲 Instagram ⁠@‌thefrontseatlife⁠ FB ⁠@‌thefrontseatlife⁠ Email ⁠KellyMarie@FrontSeatLife.com⁠ 🎧 Produced & edited by ⁠JazzCast Pros⁠ 🔗 Click Here to rate & review on⁠ Apple Podcasts⁠ 🚀 Rate & Share this Podcast from⁠ Spotify⁠ 🔐 Add this show to your collection on⁠ Pandora.⁠ 💪 Support the Show with a one-time donation on⁠ PayPal⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep.132 Kelly Marie provides updates on her journey post-back surgery and the challenges of accessing physical therapy. She highlights the barriers of time and cost, emphasizing healthcare system inequities. Reflecting on her privilege to undergo therapy, she advocates for systemic change toward preventative health care. Additionally, Kelly discusses her postpartum doula certification and shares insights on mindfulness' role in managing chronic pain. Engage with a dialogue on holistic wellness, insurance, and societal disparities in health access. You’re invited to be part of the live studio audience at the Aligned Entrepreneur Pod-a-thon where the Healthy Illness Podcast, will share how to align your business practices with your mental well-being. 📅 Friday, September 27📍 WXXI Studio A, Rochester, NYGet VIP Tickets with Discount Code: ALIGNED⁠WXXI Presents the Aligned Entrepreneur Pod-a-Thon | JazzCast Pros Notable Quotes: "Physical therapy is a damn privilege, not just from a medical perspective." "How do people prioritize their body functioning properly over going to work and taking care of family?" "We need to begin to focus on this holistic understanding of the body and how to take care of ourselves." "There is no reason why we should feel left out, disenfranchised, hurt, and broken." "Mindfulness for me has been so crucial to my ability to manage my pain 🔗 Resources & Links 📧 Front Seat Life → frontseatlife.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 131 Kelly Marie, a mindfulness advocate, doula, and host of the Healthy Illness Podcast on the JazzCast Pros Network, is known for guiding individuals toward healthier relationships and culturally rooted mindfulness practices. In this episode, she’ll break down how to: 🌱 Integrate mindfulness into your daily workflow🌱 Use culturally relevant practices to stay grounded🌱 Protect your mental health while you grow professionally 🎙️ Key Quote:"Mindfulness isn't about becoming someone different; it's about coming home to yourself." – Kelly Marie What if your business could be set up in a way that protects and supports your mental health? 💼🧘🏾‍♀️ You’re invited to be part of the live studio audience at the Aligned Entrepreneur Pod-a-thon where the Healthy Illness Podcast, will share how to align your business practices with your mental well-being. 📅 Friday, September 27📍 WXXI Studio A, Rochester, NY Get VIP Tickets with Discount Code: EARLY WXXI Presents the Aligned Entrepreneur Pod-a-Thon | JazzCast Pros 🔗 Resources & Links 📧 Front Seat Life → frontseatlife.com 🎵 Episode 101 : Little John's Mindfulness Album Review → Listen Here 🌸 Shannon Johns’ Calming Nature Doula Services & Center → Visit Website ☎️ Community Support → Dial 211 for therapists & local resources 🚨 Crisis Line → Dial 988 if in danger or need immediate support Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep.130 In Part 2 Sara Passamonte, CEO of Compeer Rochester—opens up about her path from intern to leader, what it was like guiding Compeer through the pandemic, and how personal passions like music keep her grounded. She shares how long-term peer relationships have not only shaped Compeer’s mission but also her own healing journey. This episode is a reminder that behind every program is a person with lived experience—and that recovery is possible when we find connection, purpose, and creativity along the way. ✨ Why listen: Sara’s journey from psychology student to CEO The resilience of Compeer through COVID-19 How music and creativity fuel mental wellness Stories of lasting friendships that change lives 🔗 Resources: ⁠Compeer Rochester Website⁠ ⁠Compeer International Website⁠ 🎙️ Hosted by Coach Kelly Marie, founder of⁠⁠ Front Seat Life LLC⁠⁠ 📲 Instagram ⁠⁠@‌thefrontseatlife⁠⁠ FB ⁠⁠@‌thefrontseatlife⁠⁠ Email ⁠⁠KellyMarie@FrontSeatLife.com⁠⁠ 🎧 Produced & edited by ⁠⁠JazzCast Pros⁠⁠ 🔗 Click Here to rate & review on⁠⁠ Apple Podcasts⁠⁠ 🚀 Rate & Share this Podcast from⁠⁠ Spotify⁠⁠ 🔐 Add this show to your collection on⁠⁠ Pandora.⁠⁠ 💪 Support the Show with a one-time donation on⁠⁠ PayPal⁠ Chapters: 0:00 – Sara’s 20 year career at Compeer and Its Life-Changing Impact 2:13 – Stories of Friendship: Lifelong Bonds That Shaped Sara’s Path 3:34 – From Intern to CEO: Sara Passamonte’s Journey with Compeer 9:52 – Leading Through Crisis: How Sara Guided Compeer in COVID Times 16:12 – Balancing CEO Life, Motherhood & Mental Health Self-Care Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 129 I can’t help but wonder—how different would my journey have been if I’d had a Companion Peer when I was struggling? When I was at the peak of my own mental health challenges, what I needed most wasn’t another prescription or appointment—it was a person. Someone to sit with me, listen without judgment, and remind me that I wasn’t alone. That’s exactly what Compeer offers. In this week’s episode of the Healthy Illness Podcast, I talk with Sara Passamonte, CEO of Compeer Rochester, about the life-changing impact of peer companionship. Since the 1970s, Compeer has been matching volunteers with people living with mental health challenges—building real relationships that foster hope, healing, and growth for both sides. We dive into Compeer’s inspiring origin story, its programs for youth, families, and veterans, and the ways even an hour a week can transform lives. This is the kind of community-based support I wish I’d known about years ago—and the reason this podcast exists: to let you know that you’re not alone, and recovery is possible. ✨ Key Takeaways: Peer companionship addresses the human side of mental health recovery—connection, trust, and hope. Volunteering benefits everyone involved, improving emotional and physical health. Compeer offers free programs for youth, families, and veterans. Even a small time commitment can have a huge impact. Support doesn’t always come from a clinic—sometimes it comes from a friend who’s been there. 🔗 Resources: Compeer Rochester Website Compeer International Website 🎙️ Hosted by Coach Kelly Marie, founder of⁠ Front Seat Life LLC⁠ 📲 Instagram ⁠@‌thefrontseatlife⁠ FB ⁠@‌thefrontseatlife⁠ Email ⁠KellyMarie@FrontSeatLife.com⁠ 🎧 Produced & edited by ⁠JazzCast Pros⁠ 🔗 Click Here to rate & review on⁠ Apple Podcasts⁠ 🚀 Rate & Share this Podcast from⁠ Spotify⁠ 🔐 Add this show to your collection on⁠ Pandora.⁠ 💪 Support the Show with a one-time donation on⁠ PayPal⁠ This conversation is just the beginning. Next week, Sara returns to share her own mental health journey—the experiences that shaped her, the challenges she’s overcome, and why she’s so passionate about helping others through Compeer. Subscribe now so you don’t miss Part 2 of Friendship as Medicine. Chapters: 0:00 – Why Peer Support Can Add Years to Your Life4:47 – How Compeer Turns Socializing into Mental Health Support9:16 – Behind the Scenes: Matching & Training Compeer Volunteers12:11 – The Double Impact: Helping Others While Healing Yourself16:38 – Support for All: Families, Veterans & More20:08 – Veteran Healing Through Friendship & Fun23:24 – Expanding Veteran Services Across New York24:07 – One Hour a Week That Can Change a Life Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 128 If you live with chronic pain, you may have convinced yourself that pain is your forever companion. But what if—just for a moment—you woke up and it was gone? In this reflective solo episode, Kelly Marie shares the unforgettable day she experienced zero pain for the first time in years, and how mindfulness helped her not only recognize the moment but fully live in it. Tune in as she unpacks the power of awareness, the role of physical therapy, and what she’s learning about healing from the inside out. 🧘🏽‍♀️ Key Takeaways: Why mindfulness is essential in pain management How one pain-free day sparked hope and reflection The emotional rollercoaster of chronic illness and healing ⏱️ Episode Chapters 00:00 – Living with and managing chronic pain 01:24 – Shoutout to the JazzCast Pros Community 02:41 – When Chronic Pain Becomes Your Normal 05:38 – A Day That Felt Different 06:46 – Mindfulness & Pain: A New Relationship 08:53 – Wait… Is Something Wrong? 10:04 – Sitting in Joy, Not Fear 11:05 – Chronic Pain Doesn’t Cancel Joy 12:26 – Catching the Spiral of What-Ifs 13:42 – Noticing Patterns, Honoring Progress 15:53 – You Are Not Alone 17:35 – Don’t Miss the Moment 18:50 – Final Thoughts & Call to Share Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 127 Kelly Marie delves into the challenges of maintaining personal boundaries while dealing with mental health conditions on the Healthy Illness Podcast. She shares a poignant story about setting boundaries with her godmother during a significant family gathering. The episode explores the complexities of navigating personal limits, the importance of self-care, and the impact of mental health on relationships. Kelly Marie reflects on how these decisions affect her well-being and the delicate balance of honoring both personal needs and familial love. Episodes You'll Enjoy: Ep. 95 Traveling with Friends While Managing Anxiety Ep. 97 I Can't Keep Calm I'm Stuck at the Airport! Ep. 98 Expectations vs Reality: My First Trip to India 🎙️ Hosted by Coach Kelly Marie, founder of⁠ Front Seat Life LLC⁠ 📲 Instagram ⁠@‌thefrontseatlife⁠ FB ⁠@‌thefrontseatlife⁠ Email ⁠KellyMarie@FrontSeatLife.com⁠ 🎧 Produced & edited by ⁠JazzCast Pros⁠ 🔗 Click Here to rate & review on⁠ Apple Podcasts⁠ 🚀 Rate & Share this Podcast from⁠ Spotify⁠ 🔐 Add this show to your collection on⁠ Pandora.⁠ 💪 Support the Show with a one-time donation on⁠ PayPal⁠ Key Takeaways: The importance of setting and maintaining personal boundaries for mental health, even when it involves difficult decisions. Close relationships can present challenges in boundary-setting, yet understanding and support from loved ones can aid in this process. Self-awareness and honesty are crucial in recognizing mental limits and making informed decisions about personal well-being. Healthy relationships with oneself include making choices that prevent mental health decline. Communication with loved ones about personal boundaries can facilitate understanding and support. Quotes; "I knew I could not show up for her and still show up for myself." "Love doesn't force you into a position of pain that hurts you." "If I know I don't belong in a space and still allow myself to be in that space, I'm putting myself at risk of increased, further mental decline." "We don't know until we do the work... until we've done the understanding of who we are." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 126 So you saw a TikTok about doulas and thought, “That looks fun”? Before you order your business cards, press play on this episode. Doulas Kelly Marie and Shannon Johns reveal the reality of doula care, birth education, and fighting for maternal health equity. In Part 2 of this powerful conversation, Shannon —founder of Calming Nature Doula Services—demystifies what it actually means to be a doula and what characteristics she looks for in a potential member of her team. With over a decade of experience, Shannon brings clarity and compassion to a misunderstood field, sharing why birthing families deserve more than just medical care—they deserve education, advocacy, and emotional support. You’ll learn how to prepare for childbirth with confidence, and why Medicaid coverage for doula services is a game-changer in the fight against maternal mortality. Whether you’re expecting, supporting someone through pregnancy, or thinking about becoming a doula yourself, this episode will leave you informed and empowered. 🔑 Key Topics: How doulas support the emotional and physical journey of childbirth What birthing families should ask before choosing a care provider Misconceptions about doula work and how to get certified Why maternal health advocacy is more urgent than ever Practical tips for building a trusted support network before labor begins 🎧 Notable Quote: "You have a voice. Utilize your voice. You can ask as many questions as you like... to make an informed decision for yourself and for the baby." – Shannon Johns Contact Shannon at Calming Nature Doula info@calmingnaturedoula.com 223 Grant St Buffalo, NY 14213 Calming Nature Doula Website https://www.calmingnaturedoula.com/ 🎤 Hosted by Kelly Marie | Front Seat Life LLC📩 Email your thoughts to frontseatlife@gmail.com💜 Crisis Support: Call or text 988 anytime Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 125 You’ve heard me hint at her. You’ve heard me talk about how she walks the halls like a birth superhero. And today—she's finally here. Shannon Johns, the heart and soul behind Calming Nature Doula Services, joins the Healthy Illness Podcast for a deep and raw conversation about what it really takes to care, to show up, and to reclaim our power—especially as Black women navigating motherhood, mental health, and healing. This is not your typical “how I became a doula” story. Shannon shares her truth—from becoming a mother at 14, to redefining strength, to stepping into her divine calling as a full-time doula changing lives across New York and beyond. Her voice? Unapologetic. Her journey? Unshakable. Her lessons? Universal. Contact Shannon info@calmingnaturedoula.com 223 Grant St Buffalo, NY 14213 Calming Nature Doula Website https://www.calmingnaturedoula.com/ ⚠️ WARNING: You will want to take notes. And you’ll definitely want to be back next week for Part 2. 👑 Tap in, tune in, and tell a friend. 🎤 Hosted by Kelly Marie | Produced by JazzCast Pros 📩 Email your thoughts to frontseatlife@gmail.com 💜 Crisis Support: Call or text 988 anytime 00:00 - The Guest You've All Been Waiting For: Shannon Johns is HERE 01:12 - Welcome to the Healthy Illness Podcast 02:12 - Why I Admire Shannon So Much 03:04 - How Calming Nature Doula Services Was Born 07:04 - Becoming a Teen Mom at 14: A Life-Altering Start 09:51 - What We Were Taught About Birth is All Wrong 11:28 - Why They Didn't Want Me to Speak: Telling the Truth About Teen Motherhood 13:56 - Setting a Schedule, Owning the Responsibility 17:27 - A Doctor Who Believed in Me at 13 Years Old 20:02 - Youth Empowerment and Body Ownership 22:48 - The Power of “Knowing” in the Black Community 23:06 - Teaching People to Trust Themselves 24:59 - Why Birth Trauma Repeats Across Generations 25:53 - A Deep Admiration—and We’re Not Done Yet! 26:44 - Crisis Help is Available: Call or Text 988 27:10 - Come Back Next Week for Part 2 of Shannon’s Story! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 124 As Mental Health Awareness Month comes to a close, Kelly Marie leans deeply into her faith—offering a timely reflection on love, compassion, and the power of spiritual recommitment in the face of national uncertainty. “We say we believe in families… but our policies don’t match our prayers.” Kelly shares her decision to be baptized again—an act of public faith rooted not in doctrine, but in divine love. She reminds us that Christian values are not political tools, but spiritual principles grounded in mercy, forgiveness, and grace. ✨ Whether you're questioning your own walk, feeling anxious about the state of the world, or simply seeking reassurance that you're not alone—this episode offers a moment of mindfulness, grounded in truth and filled with hope. 📖 “No matter who you are, no matter where you are, you can rededicate yourself to love—right now, in this moment.” — Kelly Marie If you're in crisis or need someone to talk to, call or text 988 for 24/7 mental health support. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 123 What does it really mean to embrace your soft girl era? This week, Kelly Marie explores how softness isn’t weakness—it’s a powerful act of self-love. 💅🏾✨ In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month and Mother’s Day, Kelly shares how a simple beauty treatment sparked a deeper reflection on mindfulness, self-care, and breaking free from grind culture. 🌸💆🏾‍♀️ 💬 “It’s not about the look—it’s about the healing.” Tune in for: 🌿 A fresh take on the “soft girl era” 🛑 The importance of boundaries 🧘🏾‍♀️ Mindfulness, meditation & emotional wellness ❤️ How to show up for yourself with compassion #HealthyIllnessPodcast #SoftGirlEra #MentalHealthAwareness #BlackMentalHealth #SelfCareIsntSelfish #FrontSeatLife #KellyMarie #HealingOutLoud #MindfulLiving #PodcastForHealing Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep 122: Have you ever felt like if you don't hold everything together, it will all fall apart? If so, you're not alone — and it's time to set yourself free. After giving a keynote speech with the Buffalo Chapter of The Links, Kelly Marie continues the conversation about the Superwoman Schema — the invisible weight you may be carrying. In this episode, you'll explore how the pressure to be strong at all costs impacts your mental and physical health, contributing to issues like high blood pressure, diabetes, and untreated depression. You'll be encouraged to rethink the roles you’ve accepted, set healthier boundaries, and embrace the truth that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. If you've ever felt like you have to do it all, Kelly reminds you: your wellness matters just as much as your willingness to serve others. 🌟 You are human. You deserve care. You don't have to carry it all alone. 🎙️ Hosted by Coach Kelly Marie, founder of Front Seat Life LLC 📲 Instagram @‌thefrontseatlife FB @‌thefrontseatlife Email KellyMarie@FrontSeatLife.com 🎧 Produced & edited by JazzCast Pros 🔗 Click Here to rate & review on Apple Podcasts 🚀 Rate & Share this Podcast from Spotify 🔐 Add this show to your collection on Pandora. 💪 Support the Show with a one-time donation on PayPal Resources: 988 - Suicide Prevention Hotline 211 - Local Services Helpline Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 121 This Black Maternal Health Week Kelly Marie explores essential questions to ask when choosing a doula, focusing on training, services, compatibility, availability during labor, and backup plans. Drawing on her experience as a doula, Kelly emphasizes the importance of establishing clear communication and understanding individual needs. She also briefly touches on the impact of doulas in maternal health and offers resources for finding support services. Stay tuned for insights from upcoming guests, Shannon Johns and other doulas, who are transforming the maternal health landscape. Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 4:57 Please tell me about your training and experience as a doula 5:57 Understanding Doula Certification and Medicaid Coverage in New York 10:54 What services do you provide and how much do they cost? 11:25 Do you work with people like me? 12:38 When do you show up once labor begins? 14:07 What happens if you're not available for my labor? 21:16 Mental Health Support and Resources for Challenging Times Crisis helpline phone numbers: Dial 988 for immediate assistance or 741741 for text support Use 211 as the helpline for resources 🎙️ Hosted by Coach Kelly Marie, founder of Front Seat Life LLC 📲 Instagram @‌thefrontseatlife FB @‌thefrontseatlife Email KellyMarie@FrontSeatLife.com 🎧 Produced & edited by JazzCast Pros 🔗 Click Here to rate & review on Apple Podcasts 🚀 Rate & Share this Podcast from Spotify 🔐 Add this show to your collection on Pandora. 💪 Support the Show with a one-time donation on PayPal Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 120 Hiring a doula? Don’t do it until you hear this! As a certified doula in New York State, I know firsthand how choosing the right support for your birth journey can shape your entire experience. In today’s episode of the Healthy Illness Podcast, I’m sharing what I wish every expecting parent knew before hiring a doula—from the questions you should ask during interviews to how to spot a red flag. 🗣️ “This is your birth journey, and I want you to feel empowered to own this part of your experience and ask the questions without shame, without apology.” – Kelly Marie We’ll talk about everything from doula philosophies and training to emotional support, communication styles, and even payment plans. Whether you’re planning a hospital birth, a home birth, or something in between, this episode will empower you to advocate for your needs and build a birth team that truly supports you. 🧘🏾‍♀️ Your birth. Your voice. Your power. Let’s talk doulas. 🔑 Key Takeaways ✨ Interview more than one doula—this is a personal decision, and finding the right fit matters. ✨ Ask about training, experience, and familiarity with local hospital or birthing center policies. ✨ Doulas aren’t regulated—so trust, communication, and clear expectations are everything. ✨ Emotional support is just as important as physical support during labor. ✨ Clarify logistics upfront: payment, availability, communication style, and backup plans. 🎙️ Hosted by Coach Kelly Marie, founder of Front Seat Life LLC 📲 Instagram @‌thefrontseatlife FB @‌thefrontseatlife, Email KellyMarie@FrontSeatLife.com 🎧 Produced & edited by JazzCast Pros 🔗 Click Here to rate & review on Apple Podcasts 🚀 Rate & Share this Podcast from Spotify 🔐 Add this show to your collection on Pandora. 💪 Support the Show with a one-time donation on PayPal Chapters: 00:00 – Importance of interviewing doulas. 04:01 – General Background Questions 06:01 – Philosophy and Approach 07:09 – Services and Availability 09:08 – Collaboration and Hospital Interaction 10:48 – Support Techniques 13:32 – Emotional and Mental Health Support 16:02 – Logistics and Payment 18:08 – Fit and Communication 20:11 – Backup Plan Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ep. 119 👶🏾Your voice matters in the delivery room. But is anyone truly listening? The reality is, Black women face higher risks during childbirth—but you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. A doula can be your advocate, your guide, and your support system, ensuring that your birth plan is heard and honored. In this episode of Healthy Illness, Kelly Marie breaks down the difference between doulas and midwives, why holistic birth support is more important than ever, and how you can take control of your birthing experience. Plus, she’s offering a FREE session to help you create a birth plan tailored to your needs. Key Takeaways: Black women in the U.S. face significantly worse maternal health outcomes compared to their white counterparts. Midwives are medically trained professionals who provide clinical care during childbirth, distinct from doctors. Doulas offer non-clinical support focused on preparing and supporting pregnant individuals through childbirth and beyond. 🎙️ Hosted by Coach Kelly Marie, founder of Front Seat Life 📲 Instagram @thefrontseatlife FB @thefrontseatlife, Email KellyMarie@FrontSeatLife.com 🎧 Produced & edited by JazzCast Pros 🔗 Click Here to rate & review on Apple Podcasts 🚀 Rate & Share this Podcast from Spotify 🔐 Add this show to your collection on Pandora. 💪 Support the Show with a one-time donation on PayPal 🎧 Tap in now—because your safety, your peace of mind, and your birth experience matter. #HealthyIllnessPodcast #BlackMaternalHealth #DoulasVsMidwives Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices