Episode 126: Perfectly Imperfect: Embracing Your Flaws as Your Superpower In this episode of "Your Inner Advocate," host Kimen Petersen explores the transformative idea that our imperfections are not flaws to be fixed, but essential parts of our purpose. Through personal stories and examples from elite athletes like Usain Bolt and Michael Phelps, Kimen illustrates how embracing and integrating our differences can lead to authenticity, resilience, and fulfillment. The episode encourages listeners to stop fighting their perceived shortcomings, feel their emotions fully, and recognize the unique strengths that arise from their challenges. Kimen shares his own journey with trauma, introversion, and dyslexia, showing how acceptance led to personal growth and a deeper connection with others. The episode concludes with practical advice on transitioning from resistance to acceptance, encouraging listeners to view their imperfections as a compass guiding them toward their true path.  = 0:00 – 1:00: Introduction to the podcast and today’s theme: embracing imperfections. 1:00 – 3:00: The concept of “what we resist, persists” and reframing flaws as integral to our wholeness. 3:00 – 7:00: Stories of athletes (Usain Bolt, Michael Phelps, Paralympians) whose so-called imperfections became their strengths. 7:00 – 12:00: Kimen’s personal journey—childhood trauma, introversion, and dyslexia—and how acceptance transformed these challenges into assets. 12:00 – 15:00: Reflections on toxic masculinity, redefining manhood, and embracing empathy and kindness. 15:00 – 20:00: Practical steps for listeners: identifying, accepting, and integrating imperfections; using them as fuel for growth. 20:00 – End: Closing thoughts—imperfections as a compass, encouragement to embrace one’s whole self, and a call to action for listeners.

Episode 125 From Inner Critic to Inner Advocate: Embracing Kindness Over Criticism In this episode of "Your Inner Advocate," host Kimen Petersen explores the theme of self-compassion, especially for high achievers and those who tend to be hard on themselves. Kimen shares personal stories and insights about the dangers of relentless self-criticism, the origins of our inner critic, and the importance of replacing harshness with kindness. The episode encourages listeners to recognize that they are always doing their best with the knowledge and resources they have at any given moment. Kimen offers practical advice and affirmations for shifting from self-judgment to self-encouragement, emphasizing that true growth and fulfillment come from compassion, not criticism. The episode closes with a gentle challenge to practice daily self-kindness and to build an internal advocate that supports a life of authenticity and joy. = 00:00 – 00:40 — Introduction to the podcast and its mission. 00:41 – 01:57 — The core message: Stop being so hard on yourself; you’re always doing your best. 01:58 – 03:19 — Understanding that your best varies day to day; wisdom is doing better when you know better. 03:20 – 04:04 — The pitfalls of using self-criticism as a motivator; short-term gains vs. long-term costs. 04:05 – 05:38 — The alternative: coaching yourself with kindness and turning the inner critic into an inner coach. 05:39 – 07:19 — How family and upbringing shape our self-talk; evolving from inherited patterns of tough love. 07:20 – 09:45 — The automatic nature of the inner critic and the power to choose self-compassion over self-judgment. 09:46 – 13:23 — Personal stories of overcoming self-loathing, learning from dyslexia, and shifting from shame to encouragement. 13:24 – 15:10 — The importance of reframing challenges as lessons and using them to fuel growth. 15:11 – 17:10 — Practical advice: treat yourself as you would a close friend, defend against negative self-talk, and practice daily affirmations. 17:11 – 19:35 — Closing thoughts: the impact of self-love on your life and relationships, and a final encouragement to lighten up on yourself. 19:36 – End — Outro, call to action, and gratitude for listeners.

Episode 124: The People Who Inspire Me—and the Truth They Taught Me  In this episode of "Your Inner Advocate," host Kimen Petersen explores the true meaning of inspiration by reflecting on both famous historical figures and everyday heroes. Drawing from personal experiences and stories of resilience, Kimen highlights the power of reframing challenges, the importance of purpose, and the strength found in overcoming adversity. The episode features insights from Viktor Frankl, Albert Einstein, Helen Keller, and Dr. Wayne Dyer, as well as moving stories of athletes who embody perseverance. Listeners are encouraged to find meaning in their struggles, embrace curiosity, and recognize the light within themselves. = 0:00 – 1:10: Introduction to the podcast and its purpose—finding inspiration and meaning through stories and conversations. 1:10 – 2:50: The host’s perspective on inspiration: valuing resilience over effortless success. 2:50 – 4:30: Tribute to people who rise after falling; introduction to Viktor Frankl and his lessons on meaning and attitude. 4:30 – 7:00: Personal impact of Frankl’s philosophy; reframing challenges and choosing one’s perspective. 7:00 – 10:00: The influence of Albert Einstein—curiosity, imagination, and living a life of value. 10:00 – 13:00: The importance of asking better questions and embracing mistakes as growth. 13:00 – 15:00: Helen Keller’s story—courage, adventure, and growing through discomfort. 15:00 – 17:00: Dr. Wayne Dyer’s teachings—perception, self-acceptance, and living on purpose. 17:00 – 20:00: The host’s inspiration from working with athletes; stories of resilience, setbacks, and triumphs. 20:00 – 23:00: Real-life examples of perseverance: marathon runners, cyclists, and sprinters overcoming adversity. 23:00 – 25:00: Lessons learned from these stories—resilience, choice, and the power of the inner advocate. 25:00 – End: Closing thoughts—encouragement to reflect on personal sources of inspiration and to keep building one’s inner advocate.  

Episode 123: Embracing Groundhog Day: How Consistency canTransform Your Life This episode of "Your Inner Advocate" with Kimen Petersen explores the concept of "Groundhog Day"—the feeling of living the same day over and over—and reframes it as a source of growth, stability, and transformation. Kimen shares personal stories and practical advice on how routine, consistency, and small daily actions can lead to profound change, resilience, and freedom. The episode encourages listeners to embrace repetition, find meaning in the mundane, and build routines that support recovery, creativity, and personal growth. = Timeline Summary [0:00] Introduction:Kimen introduces the podcast and sets the stage for a discussion about routine, repetition, and the feeling of "Groundhog Day." [0:45] The Groundhog Day Feeling:Describes the sense of monotony and questions whether repetition is a trap or an opportunity for transformation. [1:50] The Power of Consistency:Explains how progress is often subtle and rooted in daily, uncelebrated actions. [3:40] Stability and Growth:Discusses the importance of stability, routine, and how deep roots allow for greater growth and resilience. [6:00] Routine as a Launchpad:Shares examples from athletes and artists, emphasizing that extraordinary results come from ordinary, repeated actions. [8:00] Routine in Recovery:Talks about the role of routine in healing from injury, burnout, or loss, and offers practical tips on sleep, nutrition, movement, and self-care. [11:30] Finding Meaning in Repetition:Encourages listeners to recognize slow, invisible progress and trust the process of change. [14:00] Routine and Freedom:Challenges the idea that freedom is spontaneity, suggesting that true freedom comes from the discipline of routine. [16:20] Routine as Regulator:Explores how routine helps regulate emotions, provides stability during tough times, and increases capacity to handle challenges. [18:00] The Myth of Missing Out:Debunks the fear that routine leads to missing out, arguing that structure actually creates space for life and adventure. [20:00] Personal Routine Example:Kimen shares a detailed look at their own weekly routine and how it supports creativity, health, and growth. [23:00] Building Your Own Routine:Offers encouragement to start small, build supportive routines, and connect with others. [25:00] Embracing Groundhog Day:Concludes with a call to embrace repetition as a path to mastery, resilience, and freedom. [29:00] Outro:Thanks listeners and encourages them to keep developing their inner advocate.

Episode 122: Progress, Not Perfection: The Power of Focusing on How Far you have Come In this episode of "Your Inner Advocate," host Kimen Petersen reflects on the journey of personal growth, self-acceptance, and overcoming adversity. Drawing from his own life experiences—from childhood anxieties and struggles with fitting in, to discovering his voice, facing setbacks, and ultimately finding purpose—Kimen shares insights on the importance of pausing to acknowledge how far we've come. He emphasizes that growth is not linear, that embracing our unique qualities is essential, and that letting go of rigid expectations can open new paths. The episode encourages listeners to celebrate their progress, trust their inner wisdom, and keep moving forward with courage and authenticity. = 00:00 – 00:40Introduction to the podcast and its purpose: inspiration, soulful insights, and meaningful life lessons. 00:41 – 01:21Encouragement to pause and reflect on personal progress rather than focusing on how far there is to go. 01:22 – 06:40Kimen’s childhood: feeling overwhelmed by the future, learning to cope with anxiety, and the importance of staying present. 06:41 – 13:20Adolescence: struggles with self-image, shyness, and the desire to fit in; realization that outliers often achieve the most. 13:21 – 21:00Teen years: overcoming fear of embarrassment through progressive exposure, building courage, and facing discomfort. 21:01 – 28:00Early adulthood: embarking on a self-help journey, seeking to fix perceived flaws, and the realization that self-growth can become endless. 28:01 – 38:00Major life turning point: discovering dyslexia, facing health challenges, and deciding to make significant life changes. 38:01 – 46:00Returning to school, working hard, and finding fulfillment in helping others; reflection on how far he’s come. 46:01 – 54:00Pursuing creative goals (writing a book), facing setbacks, and learning to let go of rigid expectations. 54:01 – End Embracing the non-linear nature of progress, celebrating personal victories, and encouraging listeners to focus on how far they’ve come rather than how far they have to go. Closing remarks and call to action.   

Episode 121: Ten Questions with Shannon from SLP Corner Podcast  In this special episode of Your Inner Advocate, Kimen sat down with the host of the SLP Corner Podcast, Shannon. The conversation (about working/ starting in private practice)  explores Kimen’s journey, the value of reframing challenges, and the importance of finding purpose in private practice. They discuss the realities of cancellations, the rewards of helping others, and the impact of mindset on professional growth. The episode also covers advice for new grads, imposter syndrome, work-life balance, coping with uncertainty, and the power of reframing failure. Kimen shares personal stories, practical techniques for staying grounded, and emphasizes the significance of focusing on one’s “why.” The episode is filled with actionable insights and uplifting perspectives for anyone in healthcare or private practice. SLP Corner Podcast is a podcast for Students, Newly Registered and Speech-Language Pathologists in practice. Timeline Summary: 0:00 – 2:00Introduction to the episode, guest Kimen Petersen, and his background as an RMT and podcaster. 2:00 – 7:00Discussion of Kimen’s career journey, inspiration for starting a podcast, and the value of sharing life experiences. 7:00 – 12:00How Shannon and Kimen met, Kimen’s reputation in Vancouver, and the therapeutic value of reframing perspectives. 12:00 – 18:00The five-question framework for the episode, origins of the format, and its impact on meaningful conversations. 18:00 – 30:00Challenges in private practice, dealing with client cancellations, and the importance of accepting not being the right fit for everyone. 30:00 – 40:00The most rewarding aspects of private practice, Kimen’s “why,” and stories of making a difference in clients’ lives. 40:00 – 55:00Empowering parents, the impact of belief and mindset on progress, and the importance of focusing on growth and change. 55:00 – 1:10:00Advice for new SLPs and those transitioning to private practice, reframing anxiety, and the value of modelling experienced professionals. 1:10:00 – 1:30:00Addressing imposter syndrome, research on therapeutic outcomes, and the importance of compassion and connection. 1:30:00 – 1:50:00Work-life balance, the concept of dynamic equilibrium, and integrating work with life purpose. 1:50:00 – 2:10:00Staying grounded during chaos, building strong roots, andusing  practical grounding techniques. 2:10:00 – 2:30:00Perspectives on failure, reframing setbacks as “not yet,” and learning from every experience. 2:30:00 – EndUnlearning limiting beliefs, embracing sensitivity as a strength, coping with uncertainty, and staying aligned with values. Closing thoughts and where to find Kimen online.

Episode 120: Beyond Buzzwords: Practical Tools for Inner Growth In this episode of "Your Inner Advocate," host Kimen Petersen demystifies common self-help buzzwords and offers practical, down-to-earth strategies for personal growth. Kimen discusses grounding, mindfulness, positive self-talk, resilience, intentional living, emotional intelligence, and forgiveness, providing simple hacks and relatable stories for each. The episode encourages listeners to move beyond vague advice and embrace small, consistent actions to foster authenticity, joy, and inner peace.    0:00 – 0:40 — Introduction to the podcast and its purpose: inspiration, soulful insights, and meaningful life lessons. 0:41 – 1:20 — The problem with generic self-help advice; promise to break down buzzwords into actionable steps. 1:21 – 3:15 — Grounding: What it really means and a simple exercise to become present by focusing on your feet. 3:16 – 7:00 — The power of asking better questions; how the quality of your questions shapes your mindset and life. 7:01 – 9:50 — Positive self-talk: Becoming your own best friend and shifting negative inner dialogue. 9:51 – 12:00 — Mindfulness: Simplifying the concept to “doing what you’re doing when you’re doing it.” 12:01 – 14:00 — Meditation: Letting thoughts flow without attachment; the “leaves on a stream” visualization. 14:01 – 16:00 — Resilience: Building strength by overcoming challenges and focusing on what you can control. 16:01 – 18:00 — Intentional living: Accepting your habits, living purposefully, and making conscious choices. 18:01 – 21:00 — Emotional intelligence: Responding instead of reacting, assuming positive intent, and creating space between stimulus and response. 21:01 – 23:00 — Peace and forgiveness: Redefining forgiveness as letting go of the need to be right, and finding peace in acceptance. 23:01 – End — Final thoughts: Transformation comes from gentle, consistent steps; encouragement to keep building your inner advocate; outro and call to action.

Episode 119 Seven Steps to Transform Your Journey In this episode, Kimen shares seven essential steps to transform chaos into clarity, drift into direction, and turn dreams into reality. Drawing from personal stories and practical wisdom, Kimen guides listeners on how to design a life of authenticity, joy, and fulfillment. Episode Highlights: Maximize Recovery Growth starts with rest, sleep, nutrition, and real self-care. Personal story: Ignoring recovery after a marathon led to injury. Ask Better Questions The quality of your life is shaped by the questions you ask yourself. Start your day with 20 positive, intentional questions. Be Your Own Cheerleader Practice self-kindness and encouragement. Treat yourself as you would a loved one. Find Your Why Anchor your actions to a deeper purpose. Personal story: Early childhood memory of wanting to help others. Build Your Roadmap Set short, intermediate, and long-term goals—including one “impossible” goal. Write them down and revisit them often. Enroll Amazing People Share your goals with others for support and accountability. Surround yourself with people who see your potential. Keep Climbing Success is about persistence—get up one more time than you fall. Japanese proverb: “Fall down seven times, stand up eight.” Bonus Step: The Endless Climb There is no finish line; growth is a lifelong journey. Each summit reached reveals a new mountain to climb. Key Quotes: “The best way to predict the future is to create it.” “A goal should scare you a little and excite you a lot.” “There will always be another mountain, but the view from each one will change who you are.” Connect with Kimen: Instagram: @yourinneradvocate Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Podbean Timeline Summary 0:00 – Introduction to the podcast and host 0:42 – Success is by design, not by chance 1:01 – Overview of the seven steps 1:29 – Step 1: Maximize Recovery (personal story: marathon injury) 4:15 – Step 2: Ask Better Questions (morning questions exercise) 9:11 – Step 3: Be Your Own Cheerleader 11:14 – Step 4: Find Your Why (childhood story, empathy, and compassion) 16:03 – Step 5: Build Your Roadmap (goal setting, “impossible” goals) 19:28 – Step 6: Enroll Amazing People (accountability, support network) 21:42 – Step 7: Keep Climbing (persistence, Japanese proverb) 23:15 – Bonus Step: The Endless Climb (lifelong growth) 26:38 – Closing reflections and call to action

Episode 118: Mindset Reset: From Scarcity to Abundance In this episode, Kimen Petersen explores the journey from a scarcity mindset to an abundance mindset. Through personal stories, client experiences, and practical advice, Kimen illustrates how our beliefs about lack and possibility shape our lives. Listeners will learn how to recognize scarcity thinking, embrace generosity, and cultivate abundance in everyday choices. The episode includes actionable tips, inspiring anecdotes, and reflections on how abundance can transform relationships, careers, and personal fulfillment. Key Topics: The origins and impact of scarcity mindset How human adaptability and vigilance for threat relate to scarcity thinking Shifting to an abundance mindset: trust, generosity, and opportunity Personal stories: supporting clients, teaching abundance, and family lessons Overcoming imposter syndrome and embracing purpose Practical steps to foster abundance: gratitude, generosity, and saying yes to opportunities The power of focus: what you focus on expands Takeaways: Scarcity whispers “there’s never enough”; abundance declares “there’s always more.” Generosity and trust are at the heart of abundance. Abundance is cultivated through daily choices, gratitude, and openness to possibility. Your mindset can expand or shrink your world—choose abundance. = 00:00 – 00:41Introduction to the podcast and host Kimen Petersen. Setting the theme: moving from scarcity to abundance. 00:42 – 01:40Defining scarcity and abundance mindsets. The impact of focus on what we experience. 01:41 – 03:30Human evolution, adaptability, and the roots of scarcity thinking. 03:31 – 05:30How scarcity manifests: fear, hoarding, comparison. Introduction to abundance mindset and trust in life’s opportunities. 05:31 – 08:30Personal story: supporting a client in need and the rewards of generosity. 08:31 – 11:00Lessons from living with abundance. The importance of giving and the return of generosity. 11:01 – 13:00Abundance in problem-solving: every past problem had a solution, often better than expected. 13:01 – 15:00Teaching abundance to loved ones. Story about Kimen’s wife and the “wallet” exercise. 15:01 – 18:00Full-circle moments: being reminded to practice abundance by others. 18:01 – 21:00Abundance in relationships and professional life. Overcoming imposter syndrome and embracing opportunities. 21:01 – 25:00Family story: helping Kimen’s father shift from scarcity to purpose-driven abundance in business. 25:01 – 28:00Recent experiences: finding time for running, photography, and podcasting by shifting perspective on time abundance. 28:01 – 30:00Practical lessons: how abundance grows when shared, and how priorities reveal time. 30:01 – EndActionable steps: gratitude, generosity, surrounding yourself with abundant thinkers, and focusing on abundance. Closing thoughts and call to action.

Episode 117: When You Can’t Go Any Lower, You’re Finally Free to Rise Description:In this episode, Kimen Petersen explores the concept of "rock bottom"—how our lowest moments can become the foundation for our greatest growth. Through personal stories and reflections, Kimen shares how hitting rock bottom led to a complete life transformation, a new career, and a deeper sense of purpose. The episode offers inspiration for anyone facing tough times, encouraging listeners to see setbacks as opportunities for renewal and self-discovery. Key Topics: The meaning and gift of hitting rock bottom Overcoming fear of failure and letting go Personal story: career burnout, health scare, and life reset The power of reframing adversity Steps to move forward after a setback The importance of feeling your emotions fully How breakdowns can lead to breakthroughs Encouragement to trust the process and take small steps Takeaways: Rock bottom is not the end, but a new beginning. Letting go can be harder than holding on, but is often necessary for growth. Every setback can be reframed as a setup for something better. Trust that the next step will appear, even if the path isn’t clear. Compassion and strength are often born from personal struggle. = 00:00 – 00:41Introduction to the podcast and host Kimen Petersen. Setting the theme: finding inspiration and growth in life's lowest moments. 00:41 – 02:03Defining "rock bottom" as a foundation for new beginnings. The mindset shift from seeing it as an end to seeing it as a reset. 02:03 – 06:00Personal reflections on fear of failure, the drive to help others, and how compassion is born from pain. 06:00 – 12:00Kimen’s career story: taking a high-pressure job, experiencing burnout, and a health scare that became a turning point. 12:00 – 15:00The decision to quit, feelings of uncertainty, and the realization that any movement from rock bottom is improvement. 15:00 – 18:00Discovering the law of attraction, visualizing a new life, and serendipitous events leading to a new career in massage therapy. 18:00 – 22:00Overcoming obstacles: returning to school, academic success, and finding a career aligned with purpose. 22:00 – 25:00Lessons learned: letting go, trusting the process, and reframing rejection as redirection. 25:00 – EndEncouragement for listeners to reflect on their own rock bottom moments, see them as beginnings, and continue building their inner advocate. Closing thoughts and call to share the episode.

Episode 116: The Power of Silence: How Pausing Transforms Your Life In this episode of "Your Inner Advocate," host Kimen Petersen invites listeners to reflect on the importance of pausing and creating intentional moments of quiet in a world full of distractions. Kimen shares personal stories about launching the podcast, balancing a demanding work schedule, and discovering the value of accountability and self-reflection. He discusses how making small changes—like adjusting bedtime routines and embracing early morning exercise—helped him reclaim time, energy, and mental clarity. The episode explores the evolution of Kimen’s inner dialogue, the challenges of overcoming negative self-talk, and the transformative power of silence. Through anecdotes and practical advice, listeners are encouraged to examine their own habits, find “islands of quiet,” and honor their personal growth. The episode concludes with a call to action: take ten minutes each day for silence, reflection, and presence. Timeline Summary 0:00 – Introduction to the podcast and its mission 0:45 – The struggle with constant distraction and the need for silence 2:45 – Kimen’s journey: starting the podcast and making time for new goals 5:00 – Identifying wasted time and restructuring daily routines 7:00 – The benefits of early mornings, exercise, and intentional quiet 9:00 – Moving homes and discovering new opportunities for reflection 11:00 – Understanding and transforming inner dialogue 13:00 – Practical grounding techniques and the value of presence 15:00 – Conclusion: encouragement to create daily “islands of quiet”

Episode 115 Stop Peeling: Escaping the Endless Cycle of Self-Improvement Podcast Episode Summary In this episode of "Your Inner Advocate," Kimen Petersen explores the pitfalls of the self-help journey, using the metaphor of peeling back the layers of an onion. Kimen shares his personal story of hitting rock bottom, diving into self-improvement, and eventually realizing that the endless pursuit of fixing oneself can become a trap. Through anecdotes, quotes, and practical advice, he encourages listeners to embrace imperfection, live in the present, and trust that true freedom comes not from constant self-fixing, but from living fully and accepting oneself as whole—even with all the layers still intact. Timeline Summary 00:00 – 01:00Introduction to the podcast and its purpose; Kimen sets the stage for the episode’s theme. 01:00 – 03:00The “onion” metaphor: the endless cycle of self-improvement and peeling back layers. 03:00 – 07:00Kimen’s personal rock bottom: struggles with depression, anxiety, and self-defeating thoughts. 07:00 – 12:00The self-help journey begins: books, seminars, and lifestyle changes. 12:00 – 16:00Progress and setbacks: learning about the ego, inner critic, and the pattern of always finding new problems to fix. 16:00 – 20:00The realization: freedom is found in living, not in endless fixing; shifting perspective to embrace life as it is. 20:00 – 25:00The Curiosity Practice: using curiosity instead of reactivity to process triggers and emotions. 25:00 – 30:00Childhood memories and formative experiences: understanding the roots of feeling “not important enough.” 30:00 – 35:00Forgiveness and self-compassion: practical exercises for healing and letting go. 35:00 – EndFinal insights: stop making healing your identity, live in the present, and remember you were never broken. Closing thoughts and call to action.

Episode 114: The Truth About Hard Decisions: My Story of Risk, Resilience, and Growth In this episode of "Your Inner Advocate," Kimen Petersen explores the courage and process behind making hard decisions. Drawing from his personal journey with dyslexia, career changes, and overcoming self-doubt, Kimen shares how pivotal choices shaped his life. He discusses the emotional challenges of leaving unfulfilling jobs, returning to school later in life, and finding purpose through risk and resilience. The episode offers practical advice on preparing for big decisions, aligning choices with core values, seeking support, and trusting intuition. Kimen encourages listeners to embrace uncertainty, take action, and remember that every choice is a step toward growth and fulfillment. = 00:00 – Introduction to the podcast and its purpose. 00:40 – The challenge of facing hard decisions and the fear of closing doors. 01:25 – Kimen’s struggles in school with reading and spelling; discovering his gift for mathematics. 02:25 – Realization of being dyslexic, not “stupid,” and reframing self-perception. 03:18 – Early career experiences, job dissatisfaction, and the search for meaningful work. 07:30 – Achieving a high-level job, but finding it unfulfilling and stressful. 08:50 – Health crisis leads to a turning point; decision to leave a toxic job. 09:50 – Synchronicity and the decision to return to school despite fears and risks. 11:30 – The importance of aligning decisions with values and future self. 13:00 – Practical steps: preparation, gathering information, and weighing pros and cons. 15:00 – Overcoming perfectionism and analysis paralysis; setting deadlines for decisions. 17:00 – Seeking support, listening to intuition, and the power of “gut feeling.” 19:00 – Visualization and “feeling the wish fulfilled” as a tool for clarity. 21:00 – Taking action, facing imposter syndrome, and the liberating power of choice. 23:00 – Accepting outcomes, learning from decisions, and building decision-making “muscles.” 24:30 – Closing thoughts: You’re always free to choose again, and every choice leads you forward. 30:16 – Outro and encouragement to share the episode and keep building your inner advocate.

Episode 113: The Spark Comeback: How to Overcome Stagnation and Thrive In this episode, host Kimen Petersen shares personal stories and practical advice on reigniting your passion and energy in both sport and life. Drawing from his own experiences of losing and rediscovering his spark, Kimen offers listeners actionable steps to overcome periods of stagnation, nurture mind and body, and reconnect with joy and purpose. The episode emphasizes the importance of play, rest, self-compassion, and surrounding yourself with supportive people. Kimen encourages listeners to challenge limiting beliefs, create daily rituals, and permit themselves to enjoy life fully, reminding everyone that their spark is never truly lost—just waiting to be reignited. = 0:00 – Introduction to the podcast and today’s theme: getting your spark back. 0:40 – Kimen shares a personal story of feeling stuck and uninspired. 3:50 – The turning point: advice from a friend and the realization of needing change. 7:45 – First step: Play again—reconnect with childhood joys and hobbies. 10:00 – The importance of creative outlets and trying new things. 11:15 – Nurturing mind and body: movement, nature, and rest. 13:00 – Building daily rituals and the power of consistency. 14:35 – Acknowledging challenges and practicing “reckless optimism.” 16:20 – Rewiring your mindset: small goals and celebrating progress. 17:45 – Avoiding comparison and connecting with others for support. 19:00 – Becoming your own best friend and challenging negative self-talk. 20:30 – Breaking through limiting beliefs and embracing possibility. 22:00 – Self-care: doing something just for you and reclaiming joy. 24:00 – Embracing emotions, allowing yourself to feel and heal. 25:25 – Recap: Rediscover passions, nurture yourself, and give permission to live with joy. 27:45 – Closing thoughts: Your spark is waiting for you; you’re right on time. 28:25 – Outro and call to share the episode.

Episode 112:  It’s NEVER Too Late: To Rewrite Your Story! In this inspiring episode, Kimen Petersen shares his personal journey of overcoming self-doubt, learning disabilities, and late-in-life career changes. Through heartfelt stories and practical wisdom, he encourages listeners to trust their timing, embrace their unique path, and remember that it’s never too late to become who you’re meant to be. Timeline: 00:00 – Introduction to the podcast and host 00:42 – Challenging the belief of being "too late" or "too old" 01:05 – Kimen’s struggles with dyslexia and early self-doubt 02:27 – The impact of adversity on empathy and compassion 03:42 – Career stress, health scare, and a turning point 05:05 – Discovering dyslexia at age 26 06:50 – Realizing self-worth comes from within 07:50 – Quitting a management job and facing fears 09:00 – Returning to school at 40 and academic success 10:30 – Starting a new career and making a difference 11:45 – Stories of late-blooming athletes and breaking age barriers 13:00 – The importance of courage and taking action despite fear 14:30 – Becoming a teacher and giving back 16:00 – Financial fears and how support appeared along the way 17:00 – The myth of the "perfect time" and living in the present 18:00 – Advice: Take the first step, even if you don’t have the whole plan 19:00 – Rejection as redirection and trusting the journey 21:00 – The power of belief, persistence, and being "unreasonable" 22:30 – Practical invitation: Write down one step you can take today 24:00 – Final encouragement: It’s never too late to become what you’re meant to be 25:00 – Closing thoughts and call to share the episode

Episode 111: From Critic to Cheerleader: Transforming Your Inner Dialogue In this episode, host Kimen Petersen explores the profound impact of our inner dialogue. Kimen shares personal stories and coaching experiences to illustrate how the voice inside our heads can either nurture or hinder our growth. The episode discusses the difference between an inner critic and an inner advocate, emphasizing the importance of speaking to ourselves with compassion and encouragement. Listeners hear about the transformation that occurs when we shift from negative self-talk to positive affirmation, with examples ranging from athletes to everyday life. Kimen highlights the practices of visualization and affirmations, referencing Michael Phelps’ mental strategies, and offers practical tips for reshaping internal conversations. The episode encourages reflection, self-kindness, and the celebration of small wins. Kimen concludes by reminding listeners that the most powerful conversation is the one we have with ourselves, urging everyone to become their own best friend and advocate. = Podcast Episode Summary with Timestamps [00:00] IntroductionKimen Petersen introduces the podcast and its purpose: to inspire and share meaningful life lessons. [00:40] The Power of Inner DialogueDiscussion on the impact of the voice inside our heads and how it shapes our lives. [01:27] Negative Self-TalkKimen shares personal experiences with a harsh inner critic and its effects. [03:19] Becoming Your Inner AdvocateThe importance of transforming self-criticism into self-compassion. [04:04] Coaching StoryA runner learns to speak kindly to herself, leading to positive changes. [07:32] Michael Phelps ExampleHow the Olympian used affirmations and visualization to overcome mental struggles. [11:03] The Weight of Self-TalkA weightlifter’s breakthrough after changing his inner script. [12:22] Reflection ExerciseListeners are encouraged to reflect on their self-talk and choose kindness. [14:01] Positive Self-MotivationThe long-term benefits of positive self-talk over negativity. [21:01] Breaking the CycleKimen’s personal story about moving away from negative motivation. [23:41] Final ThoughtsThe most important conversation is the one you have with yourself. [24:35] OutroKimen thanks listeners and encourages them to keep building their inner advocate.

Episode 110: “The Cycle Breaker’s Guide to Becoming Unstoppable” Episode Summary:In this episode, Kimen Petersen explores the patterns that keep us stuck and how to break free from cycles that limit our potential. Through personal stories, analogies, and motivational insights, Kimen encourages listeners to step out of their comfort zones, embrace risk, and pursue extraordinary lives with intention and courage. Key Topics Covered: The trap of repetition: Why doing the same thing yields the same results. The danger of spreading yourself too thin versus the power of focused effort. Facing the fear of failure and reframing what it means to fall short. The importance of specificity and going "all in" on your goals. Lessons from athletes and high achievers on balancing hard work with recovery and mindfulness. Practical steps to break cycles and move toward your dreams. Notable Quotes: "Good results can be the enemy of great ones." "If you can't risk meeting yourself at the bottom, you'll never have the chance to meet yourself at the top." "The impossible is only temporary." Connect with Kimen:Instagram: @yourinneradvocateListen on: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Podbean Episode Timeline: 00:00 – Introduction & podcast purpose 00:40 – The trap of repetition and comfort 03:00 – Spreading yourself too thin vs. focus 06:00 – Facing the fear of failure 10:00 – Lessons from athletes: specificity and recovery 15:00 – Practical steps to break cycles 26:00 – Final challenge & closing thoughts

Episode 109: Release the Past, Redesign Your Future In this episode, Kimen Petersen explores the universal challenge of letting go of the past to step fully into the future. Through personal stories, powerful metaphors, and practical exercises, Kimen guides listeners on how to acknowledge, learn from, and release what no longer serves them. Key Highlights: The weight of the past: Why dragging old regrets and pain holds us back. The illusion of memory: How our perspective colors our recollection of events. Personal stories of overcoming disappointment, injury, and childhood trauma. The power of reframing: Turning pain and rejection into growth and compassion. Practical steps for letting go: Acknowledge, learn, and release. Exercises for living in the present and creating a future by design. Inspirational quotes and reflections on resilience, empathy, and self-advocacy. Actionable Takeaways: Treat the past as a teacher, not a prison. Reframe setbacks as opportunities for growth. Practice presence through mindful exercises. Write down what you’re ready to let go of, and outline steps to move forward. Timeline Summary 0:00 – Introduction to the podcast and today’s theme: letting go of the past. 0:40 – The metaphor of the past as a heavy burden; why we must bury it. 1:45 – The illusion of memory and how perspective shapes our stories. 2:55 – Kimen’s half marathon story: disappointment vs. outside admiration. 4:30 – Childhood trauma and the long-term impact of early experiences. 8:00 – Injury and recovery: lessons in patience and self-compassion. 11:30 – The three steps to handling the past: acknowledge, learn, release. 14:00 – Reframing pain and rejection; stories of Walt Disney and Oprah. 16:00 – The power of the present moment; exercises for grounding. 18:00 – The future as a blank canvas; setting new goals. 20:00 – The hard work of letting go and reframing meaning. 22:00 – Visualization exercise: dropping the weight of the past. 24:00 – Final reflections, challenges for listeners, and closing thoughts.

Episode 108: Not taking the Risk is the Greatest Risk In this inspiring episode of "Your Inner Advocate," Kimen Petersen explores the transformative power of risk-taking. Through personal stories and examples—like Michael Jordan's setbacks and a runner's journey to the Boston Marathon—Kimen illustrates that the greatest risk is not taking one at all. The episode emphasizes that failure is not the opposite of success but a crucial part of the process. Listeners are encouraged to start where they are, embrace both the challenging and gentle disciplines, and reframe setbacks as opportunities for learning. The message is clear: every extraordinary story begins with someone willing to try, fail, and try again. The path to greatness starts now, with what you have, and every time you get back up, you start wiser. = 00:00 – 00:40 — Introduction to the podcast and its purpose00:41 – 01:30 — The core message: Not taking a risk is the biggest risk01:31 – 02:10 — Ordinary people become extraordinary by taking risks02:11 – 03:00 — Michael Jordan’s story: overcoming setbacks03:01 – 04:30 — The role of failure in success; resilience and learning04:31 – 06:00 — The secret formula: start where you are, take the first step06:01 – 07:00 — Every fall is a lesson; you start again with wisdom07:01 – 09:00 — Story of a runner’s journey to qualify for the Boston Marathon09:01 – 10:00 — The power of refusing to quit; success is built on persistence10:01 – 12:00 — Reframing failure; life’s lessons and cycles12:01 – 13:00 — Life is happening for you, not to you; setbacks as redirection13:01 – 14:00 — Extraordinary people master both hard work and self-compassion14:01 – 15:00 — The importance of rest and gentle disciplines15:01 – 16:00 — The story of a triathlete learning to rest16:01 – 17:00 — The greatest rewards come to those who risk failure and rejection17:01 – 18:00 — Encouragement to pursue your dream, no matter how big18:01 – 19:00 — The call to risk, to discover your own extraordinariness19:01 – 20:00 — The greatest adventure is one step away; what if it works?20:01 – End — Closing thoughts, gratitude, and a call to action: take the risk, build your inner advocate, and start wiser each time you rise

Episode 107: The Greatest Reframe: Why Your Struggles Are Your Superpowers  In this episode of "Your Inner Advocate," host Kimen Petersen explores the transformative power of reframing your personal story. Drawing from his own experiences with self-image, dyslexia, and overcoming adversity, Kimen shares how shifting perspective can turn pain into compassion and purpose. The episode offers practical insights and encouragement for anyone facing challenges, emphasizing that every struggle can become a source of strength and empathy. Show Notes & Timeline: 00:00 — Introduction to "Your Inner Advocate" and host Kimen Petersen 00:40 — Topic Introduction: The Power of Reframing 01:15 — Why Our Minds Focus on the Negative 01:42 — Evolutionary Threat Detection and Modern Challenges 02:35 — Personal Story: Childhood Self-Image and Dyslexia 03:38 — Discovering Dyslexia and Harsh Inner Dialogue 04:10 — Realizing Strength Through Surviving Hardships 05:06 — Working with Athletes: Courage and Action in the Face of Fear 05:50 — Compassion Forged Through Hardship 06:30 — Flipping the Frame: Finding Purpose in Suffering 07:00 — Personal Journey: Lies About Self and Overcoming Them 08:00 — The First Major Reframe: Surviving Negative Self-Talk 09:00 — Pain Creates Compassion: Addressing Childhood Trauma 10:00 — The Greatest Reframe: Adversity Builds Empathy 11:00 — The Ultimate Reframe: What Is This Trying to Teach Me? 12:00 — Lessons Repeat Until Learned; Free Will and Life’s Lessons 13:00 — Talking to Your Body: Learning from Pain and Injury 14:00 — Victim vs. Victor Mindset: Changing the Meaning of Experiences 15:00 — Embracing the Gifts of Survival and Compassion 16:00 — Teaching Students: Would You Erase Your Past? 17:00 — Reframing as a Lifelong Practice 18:00 — Choosing the Meaning of Experiences: Power and Opportunity 19:00 — Reflection: What Have You Learned from Challenges? 19:40 — Closing Thoughts and Encouragement 19:50 — Outro: How to Connect and Support the Podcast