Food as Medicine: How Food Dyes, Chemicals, and Nutrition Shape Children’s Health & Behavior | Pulling Threads PodcastIn this powerful episode of Pulling Threads, host Leslie Mathews, MSW sits down with Dr. Kelly Cross, a board-certified pediatrician and integrative medicine practitioner, to explore how what we eat influences the mind, mood, and overall health — especially in children.💬 Topics we cover:• The impact of food dyes, preservatives, and ultra-processed foods on behavior and attention• How chemical sensitivities can mimic symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, and mood swings• Dr. Cross’s journey from traditional pediatrics to integrative medicine• Practical ways parents can create healthier eating habits without spending a fortune• The connection between nutrition and mental health in kids and teens• Honest conversation about food system challenges, upcoming legislation, and the complex landscape of vaccines✨ Key Moments:00:00 Introduction to Pulling Threads00:34 Meet Dr. Kelly Cross02:07 Kelly’s Journey to Integrative Medicine06:33 Balancing Traditional and Holistic Approaches11:06 The Impact of Chemicals and Dyes on Health17:52 Nutrition Tips for Kids and Teens26:14 Affordable Organic Options (Aldi + Costco)31:08 Diet and ADHD Connections39:31 The Future of Food Safety & Policy41:28 Vaccine Conversations48:12 Practical Steps for Healthier LivingIf you’ve ever wondered how food choices shape our children’s mental and emotional health, this conversation will change the way you think about your plate — and your pantry.👉 Subscribe for more episodes on mindfulness, holistic health, and emotional healing.🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or watch the full video here on YouTube.💬 Share your thoughts below — how have food choices impacted your family’s well-being?#FoodAsMedicine #IntegrativeMedicine #ChildrensHealth #FoodDyes #ADHD #NutritionAndMentalHealth #HolisticHealth #MindBodyConnection #PullingThreadsPodcast #LeslieMathewsMSW #DrKellyCross

Rebuilding Self-Trust & Finding Your Voice After Toxic Relationships & Narcissistic Abuse | Pulling ThreadsWith guest Clarissa Stolte – Therapist & Toxic Relationship CoachIn this emotionally resonant episode of Pulling Threads, host Leslie dives into the journey of healing and transformation after toxic or narcissistic relationships. She’s joined by Clarissa Stolte, therapist and founder of The Reclaiming Her Voice Method, who shares her personal story of growing up in a narcissistic family system—and how she now helps women break cycles of self-doubt, restore self-trust, and reclaim their authentic voice.🎙 What we cover:00:00 Introduction and Personal Connection01:18 Guest Introduction: Clarissa Stolte02:12 Clarissa’s Background and Personal Story03:53 The Impact of Narcissistic Family Systems12:14 Healing Journey and Professional Experience15:02 Misconceptions About Healing from Narcissistic Abuse21:33 Rebuilding Self-Trust and Emotional Regulation28:52 Overcoming Relationship Chaos29:33 Setting Boundaries Without Guilt32:58 The Importance of Self-Care35:44 Rebuilding After Toxic Relationships37:11 Navigating the Dating World46:37 Finding Your Voice Again51:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts🔗 Resources + Connect with Clarissa:LinkedIn ➤ www.linkedin.com/in/clarissa-stolte-reclaiming-herInstagram ➤ @clarissastolteFacebook ➤ facebook.com/share/1CccF1gE2K/?mibextid=wwXIfr✨ About Clarissa:“I help women healing from narcissistic abuse break the cycle of toxic relationships, rebuild self-trust, and create a life of calm, confidence, and authentic connection through The Reclaiming Her Voice Method.”🎧 Why listen?If you’ve experienced emotional or narcissistic abuse, feel stuck in self-doubt, struggle to trust your voice or set boundaries—or you’re simply ready to reclaim your authentic self and step into greater confidence—this episode offers heart-felt insights, practical steps, and a reminder that healing and authentic connection are absolutely possible.📌 Don’t forget:Hit LIKE, SUBSCRIBE and the BELL icon so you never miss an episode of Pulling Threads. Share this with someone who needs it. Leave us a comment: What’s one boundary you’re ready to set for your next chapter?#ToxicRelationships #NarcissisticAbuse #SelfTrust #Boundaries #AuthenticConnection #TraumaRecovery #WomensHealing #PullingThreadsPodcast

From Burnout to Deep Rest: Healing Women’s Sleep with Melissa Good | Pulling Threads PodcastExhaustion. Overwhelm. Sleepless nights.So many ambitious, heart-centered women are running on empty — but rest isn’t a luxury. It’s a lifeline.In this episode of Pulling Threads, host Leslie Mathews, MSW—therapist, coach, and founder of The LooM Life—sits down with Melissa Good, licensed therapist and sleep coach, for a transformative conversation on how to move from burnout and insomnia to true restoration.Melissa opens up about her journey from correctional officer to therapist and sleep coach, and how perfectionism, people-pleasing, and chronic stress quietly steal our rest. Together, Leslie and Melissa unpack:✨ The link between the nervous system and sleep✨ Myths that keep women stuck in exhaustion✨ How to navigate sleep changes during perimenopause and menopause✨ Simple, science-backed strategies for deep, lasting restWhether you’re struggling with insomnia, waking up at 3 a.m., or just feeling disconnected from your body’s natural rhythms, this episode will help you understand your nervous system, regulate stress, and reclaim restorative sleep.🪶 Join us to learn how rest becomes the most radical form of self-care.🎧 Timestamps:00:00 – Welcome + Introduction01:41 – Melissa’s Journey to Becoming a Sleep Coach05:47 – The Importance of Sleep and Common Issues08:09 – Myths & Misconceptions About Sleep12:08 – Perfectionism, People Pleasing & Stress16:10 – The Nervous System + Sleep Connection19:38 – Behavioral Techniques for Better Rest24:42 – Personal Struggles with Sleep29:06 – Midlife, Perimenopause & Menopause Challenges32:26 – Self-Advocacy and Women’s Health37:13 – Practical Sleep Tips40:51 – Join the Community for Better Sleep45:28 – Final Thoughts + Connect with Melissa💫 Follow Melissa Good Insta: @melissa__good ; Facebook: Melissa Good (melissagoodsleepcoach), LinkedIn: Melissa Good ; Website www.melissagood.com👉 Link to her Facebook group: facebook.com/groups/yourbestsleep👉 Learn about her 8-week Better Sleep program💛 Connect with Leslie Mathews + The LooM Life:Instagram: @the.loom.lifeand @loomlifetherapyTikTok: @parandpeacePodcast: [Pulling Threads on YouTube]YouTube Golf Channel: @ParandPeace Website: www.theloomlife.com

In this episode of Pulling Threads, we welcome Melanie Miller, a licensed professional counselor, to discuss the intricacies of parallel parenting in blended families and the journey of living an alcohol-free life. Melanie shares her personal journey and the challenges of dealing with adverse childhood experiences, emotional neglect, and parental substance use. She explores her transition into therapy and sobriety coaching, offering valuable insights on overcoming alcohol dependence and creating a sober community. The episode delves deeply into creating realistic expectations within blended families, setting boundaries in co-parenting and parallel parenting, and the profound impact of emotional regulation and mindset in navigating these transitions. Melanie also discusses her innovative 'Off the Rocks' sobriety program and shares advice for those considering an alcohol-free life. Tune in for an enlightening conversation on maintaining mental wellness, the importance of self-care, and developing resilience through life's toughest challenges. Don't miss this episode filled with practical advice, personal stories, and professional insights!You can contact, follow, and learn more about Melanie on her website, Facebook page, or Instagram. www.pratidanawellness.comhttps://www.facebook.com/PratidanaWellnessCoaching/https://www.instagram.com/off.the.rocks.sober/https://www.linkedin.com/in/melanie-miller-lpc/"00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:59 Melanie's Personal Journey02:52 The Path to Sobriety06:52 Challenges and Misconceptions of Sobriety20:17 Switching Gears: Co-Parenting and Parallel Parenting27:09 Creating a Safe Space for Children27:51 The Importance of Self-Care for Parents28:40 The Rollercoaster of Parenting29:02 Challenges of Blended Families31:05 Setting Realistic Expectations in Blended Families32:32 Navigating Loyalty Conflicts in Children42:04 The Impact of Alcohol on Co-Parenting43:59 Mindset and Emotional Regulation45:04 Creating a New Life Post-Divorce50:35 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

In this Pulling Thread episode, we welcome Alina Reary, a licensed therapist and intuitive eating coach. We discuss the impact of diet culture, the journey to food freedom, and how women can reclaim their bodies and lives by trusting their instincts. Alina shares her insights on intuitive eating, overcoming food guilt, and the importance of community support in this transformative process. Listen for an empowering conversation on health, self-trust, and living life to the fullest. If you want to follow or work with Ellina, you can follow her on IG @eoc.coaching. You can find her on Facebook athttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578176021050and herFacebook Group: Intuitive Eating and Anti-Dieting Community00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction00:48 Swifties and Chiefs: A Fun Start01:39 Ellina's Journey into Eating Disorder Therapy04:08 Understanding Intuitive Eating07:17 Diet Culture and Its Impact09:49 Breaking Free from Diet Culture24:56 The Role of Community in Healing30:51 Empowering Final Thoughts and How to Connect

Understanding Why Women Stay in Unhappy Marriages | Pulling Threads PodcastIn this episode of Pulling Threads, we dive deep into the complex reasons why women remain in marriages and relationships that are no longer fulfilling or safe. This podcast is dedicated to discussing the visible and hidden factors that keep women from leaving, including financial concerns, cultural expectations, trauma bonds, religious conditioning, and the bleak dating landscape. We touch on the challenges of discernment counseling, the psychological and neurological aspects of attachment, and the internal and external judgments faced by women contemplating divorce. Whether you're in the midst of this struggle or supporting someone who is, this episode aims to unpack the intricate layers of fear, hope, and survival. Subscribe for more episodes focusing on similar topics.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:40 Why Women Stay in Unhappy Marriages02:14 Cultural and Societal Judgments04:05 Financial and Emotional Barriers07:38 Understanding Trauma Bonds11:03 Religious Trauma and Conditioning14:26 Fear of Loneliness and Stigma16:40 Identity Collapse and Learned Helplessness17:39 Hope and the Trap of Waiting20:05 The Modern Dating Landscape21:32 Personal Healing and Moving Forward25:21 The Tipping Point and Final Thoughts

Do you avoid trying new things because fear tells you that you don’t belong? In this episode of Pulling Threads, I share how childhood trauma wired my nervous system for protection and how I used golf—yes, golf!—to rewrite that pattern.🔬 We explore the science behind neuroplasticity—the brain’s incredible ability to reorganize itself and change its activity in response to experiencencbi.nlm.nih.govverywellmind.com. Researchers note that the brain can create new neural pathways and adapt throughout life, and mindfulness practices have been shown to foster this plasticity. In other words, even after decades of trauma, your brain can heal.🧠 I explain how fear of failure, societal narratives, and limiting beliefs kept me from trying new sports for years. With therapy, mindfulness, and lots of small, compassionate steps, I learned to take up space, swing a club with courage, and trust myself again.Key Takeaways:• What neuroplasticity is and why it matter• How trauma rewires the brain and fuels fear of new experiences• Simple, evidence‑based practices (therapy, mindfulness, gentle movement) to rebuild neural pathways• Why I chose golf as my healing tool, and how it became a metaphor for life• An invitation for you: What’s your “golf” — the activity you’ve wanted to try but felt too afraid?I’d love to hear your story. Drop a comment or DM me on Instagram at @TheLoomLife or @ParInPeace. Remember: your brain is capable of change, and every brave little swing counts. 💛Timestamps:00:00 Intro – Where I’ve been & why02:20 Why trauma makes trying new things scary05:30 Brain science: neuroplasticity explained08:45 Evidence‑based ways to rewire your brain13:30 My golf story & the metaphors it taught me22:45 Your invitation to try something new—Support: If this episode resonates, hit 👍 like, subscribe for future episodes, and share with a friend. Your stories mean everything to me.

Embracing Beauty: Rewriting the Narrative of Shame and Acceptance | Pulling Threads Podcast with LeslieIn this heartfelt episode of Pulling Threads, trauma-informed therapist and coach Leslie Mathews explores the complex relationship between beauty, shame, and self-worth, especially for women in their 30s, 40s, and 50s.From societal double standards to generational programming, Leslie unpacks how American culture, media, religion, and family dynamics have shaped women’s understanding of beauty—and how those outdated beliefs can be rewritten.Whether you grew up idolizing supermodels, navigating the silent pressure to stay small, or feeling confused about whether it’s okay to love your appearance, this episode offers validation, healing, and a new lens.🎙️ Topics Covered: • The history of beauty as currency in America • The “mirror trap” and why women dim their light • How different generations experience beauty expectations • The role of therapy in healing body image wounds • 4 steps to reclaiming your beauty narrative • How to model healthy beauty for future generations👁‍🗨 This episode is for every woman who has ever felt ashamed for caring too much or too little about how she looks.✨ Beauty isn’t the enemy—shame is. Let’s start honoring our bodies, our choices, and our power.🔔 Subscribe for more healing conversations: @pulling_threads💌 Connect with Leslie at [Your Website or Link]📸 Follow on Instagram: @the.loom.life🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify & more.

Unveiling the Layers: Beauty, Medicine & Empowerment with Lisa Hahn | Pulling Threads PodcastWelcome back to Pulling Threads, where we unravel the deeper stories behind healing, growth, and the human experience. In this inspiring episode, host Leslie Mathews, therapist, coach, and founder of The LooM, sits down with Lisa Hahn, board-certified nurse practitioner and founder of Nueva Aesthetics in St. Petersburg, Florida.Together, they explore the transformative world of medical aesthetics—where science meets self-worth, and beauty becomes a tool for empowerment.🌟 In This Episode, You’ll Learn: • How Lisa transitioned from trauma ICU nursing to launching a boutique aesthetics practice • Why skin health and regenerative treatments are changing the face of beauty • The emotional and psychological layers behind seeking aesthetic treatments • How aesthetic care can boost self-confidence, mental health, and authenticity • What aging gracefully really means—and why ageless beauty is more than a trend • Future-forward insights on lasers, neurotoxins, skincare, and client empowerment💡 Whether you’re curious about aesthetic procedures, exploring your own journey with aging and self-image, or just love hearing from women who are redefining what beauty means today—this episode is for you.🔗 Connect with Lisa Hahn & Nueva AestheticsWebsite: https://nuevaaesthetics.comInstagram: @nueva.aesthetics✨ Follow Leslie & The LooMInstagram: @the.loom.lifeYouTube: @pulling_threadsWebsite: https://theloom.life⸻🎧 LISTEN, RATE, REVIEW, & SHAREIf this episode resonated with you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who’s navigating their own beauty or healing journey. We love hearing from you—drop a comment, DM, or tag us in your reflections.

Breakups can leave us feeling emotionally raw, physically disconnected, and unsure of how to get our needs met. In this episode of Pulling Threads, trauma-informed therapist and coach Leslie Mathews shares real, practical strategies for meeting your emotional, physical, and sexual needs after a breakup—with compassion and clarity.You’ll learn: • 💔 How to regulate your nervous system and calm heartbreak • ✍️ How journaling, emotional rituals, and a “validation vault” can support emotional healing • 🛁 Creative ways to meet physical intimacy needs—like warm baths, massage, pets, and body doubling • 💖 Why self-pleasure is a powerful, healing tool for reclaiming your body and intimacy • 🌐 Go-to resources like OMGYes, Goop, and Sex with Emily • 💡 Tips for approaching casual sex with mindfulness and intentionThis episode is for anyone navigating post-breakup loneliness, confusion, or craving deeper self-connection. You can meet your needs without losing yourself—and this conversation will show you how.👉 Subscribe for more trauma-informed, heart-centered content to help you heal, grow, and thrive.#BreakupRecovery #SelfCareAfterBreakup #EmotionalHealing #TraumaInformedTherapy #PullingThreadsPodcast

Why Do Breakups Hurt So Much? | Brain Science, Trauma & Healing After HeartbreakIn this episode of Pulling Threads, therapist and coach Leslie unpacks why breakups feel so devastating—especially when you’re carrying unresolved trauma. From the brain science behind emotional pain to the impact of attachment styles, Leslie explores what really happens in our nervous system when a relationship ends—and why it can feel like your whole world is unraveling.You’ll learn: • The neuroscience of heartbreak and why it mimics physical pain • How childhood trauma and attachment wounds shape your breakup response • The stages of breakup grief (hint: they’re not linear!) • Common emotional “minefields” to watch for post-breakup • Real-life coping tools, grounding exercises, and emotional regulation strategies • How to turn heartbreak into a powerful opportunity for healing, clarity, and self-discoveryWhether you’re reeling from a recent breakup or want to better understand the emotional aftermath of relationship endings, this episode is packed with insights, strategies, and encouragement to help you feel less alone—and more empowered.🫖 Grab your tea, get comfy, and let’s untangle this together.Timestamps:00:00 – Intro: Why Breakups Hurt So Much01:09 – Leslie’s Personal Breakup Story04:43 – Brain Science of Heartbreak07:25 – Attachment Styles & Breakup Impact10:27 – Stages of Breakup Grief17:02 – Navigating Post-Breakup Minefields22:36 – Grounding Tools for Emotional Recovery24:55 – Final Thoughts & Words of Support

Why Even “Small Lies” Hurt So Much | The Psychology of Deception in RelationshipsIn this powerful episode of Pulling Threads, therapist and coach Leslie unpacks the hidden damage caused by deception in relationships — from bold-faced lies to subtle omissions and half-truths.Why does it hurt so badly when we find out someone misled us? How does betrayal affect our mental health, self-worth, and ability to trust again?Leslie explores: • Why even small deceptions rupture trust • How past trauma amplifies the pain of betrayal • The psychological impact of being lied to or misled • What it does to your self-esteem and attachment • Why people deceive — and what’s really going on beneath the surface • Steps individuals and couples can take to heal after deceptionWhether you’re trying to move on from a relationship filled with dishonesty or working to rebuild after a breach of trust, this episode offers compassionate insight and actionable strategies for healing.🔗 Subscribe to Pulling Threads for more honest conversations on trauma, healing, and modern relationships.⸻⏱ Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Pulling Threads00:30 Understanding Deception01:32 Psychological Impact of Deception02:10 Examples of Deception in Relationships03:52 Betrayal Trauma and Its Effects11:28 Healing from Deception19:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts⸻💬 What’s your experience with deception in relationships? Share your thoughts in the comments — we’d love to hear your story.📲 Follow Leslie & The LooM LifeInstagram: @TheLooMLifeWebsite: www.theloomlife.com

In this episode of Pulling Threads, we explore the complexities of personal growth, evolving past old patterns, and how to navigate relationships with those who may still see us through an outdated lens. We discuss the importance of allowing ourselves and others the space to grow, and when it might be necessary to set boundaries or even walk away to protect our progress. With examples from personal experiences and insights as a therapist, this conversation aims to offer guidance on maintaining authenticity and honoring our evolution, despite external perceptions.00:00 Introduction and Personal Growth01:23 Challenges of Being Seen in a New Light05:07 Personal Story: Golfing with Frank15:13 Healthy Boundaries and Self-Protection17:54 When It's Time to Walk Away22:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Embracing Entrepreneurship and Home Organization with Kirsten FisherIn this episode of 'Pulling Threads,' we are joined by Kirsten Fisher, a home organizer and entrepreneur, as she shares her journey from a career in sports marketing to starting her own business in home organization. Kirsten discusses the challenges and triumphs of being a female entrepreneur, adapting to market uncertainties, and the importance of mental health through decluttering. She also offers practical tips on home organization and discusses how her unique 'letting go' bins and membership programs help maintain an organized and stress-free environment. Join us for an inspiring conversation about entrepreneurship, resilience, and the profound impact of an organized home on mental well-being.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome01:41 Kirsten's Journey to Home Organization04:09 Starting and Growing a Business07:11 Navigating Challenges and Pivots09:35 Lessons Learned and Advice for Entrepreneurs12:07 The Importance of Community and Support28:41 Shifting Gears: Mental Health and Home Organization29:39 Emotional and Mental Shifts from Home Organization33:54 The Membership Program: Ongoing Support for Organization37:16 Dealing with Emotional Clutter41:55 Decluttering as Emotional Self-Care48:53 Practical Tips for DIY Decluttering55:00 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Understanding Trauma and Self-Preservation: Why We Sabotage OpportunitiesIn this episode of 'Pulling Threads,' we explore how trauma influences self-preservation behaviors that can unintentionally sabotage relationships and career opportunities. Learn what trauma is, how it manifests as hyperarousal and self-sabotage, and ways to identify and overcome these patterns. We delve into attachment issues, fear of intimacy, and avoidance in relationships, as well as fear of failure and hyper-independence in professional settings. Discover therapeutic approaches like CBT and EMDR to reframe traumatic experiences and build a supportive community to encourage growth and healing. Don't miss this insightful discussion on how to reclaim your potential and break free from the constraints of past trauma.00:00 Introduction to Self-Preservation01:29 Understanding Trauma and Self-Preservation02:15 Impact on Personal Relationships05:32 Impact on Career and Professional Life06:58 Steps to Healing and Overcoming Self-Preservation10:52 Personal Experiences and Examples20:16 Practical Techniques for Healing23:25 Conclusion and Encouragement

Welcome to another episode of 'Pulling Threads.' Today, our host sits down with Chelsea Larkins, a renowned hairstylist and entrepreneur from The Little Black Door Salon in Tampa. Chelsea shares her inspiring journey from working at a local salon to owning her own business, touching on her early love for cosmetology, the steps she took to become independent, and the challenges and triumphs she faced along the way. They discuss the powerful role of beauty and hair in personal identity and mental health, as well as the importance of patience, resilience, and trusting the process in entrepreneurial ventures. Chelsea also offers invaluable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and reflects on her personal growth, professional satisfaction, and how she maintains a healthy work-life balance. Join us for this captivating conversation about beauty, bravery, and the transformative power of hair.Find Chelsea on Instagram at @chelseaschairllc and @thelittleblackdoorsalon00:00 Welcome and Introduction01:21 Chelsea's Entrepreneurial Journey06:14 Starting the Salon Business09:36 Balancing Business and Personal Life14:36 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs17:58 The Power of Beauty and Hair23:13 Emotional Connections with Clients33:03 Managing Energy and Setting Boundaries37:33 The Physical and Mental Demands of the Job37:57 Memorable Client Experiences39:53 Gratitude and Personal Growth41:06 Balancing Work and Personal Life44:21 Dreams for the Salon's Future45:42 Advice to Younger Self and Reflections52:32 Embracing Beauty and Self-Care01:06:13 Closing Thoughts and Where to Find Us

In this episode, we dive deep into the journey of self-discovery, moving from societal expectations to finding one's true path. Today’s guest is Rebecca, a heart-led coach who once walked the halls of law and art and now walks with the energy of others. Leslie and Rebecca discuss the importance of understanding oneself, rebuilding one's foundation, and the liberation that comes from reframing one's story. The episode emphasizes the power of personal responsibility, mindset shifts, and the fundamental human desires for love, worthiness, and self-honor. Rebecca has uncovered and is sharing how she has trained AI tools to help her in her journey and with her clients. She explains why and how AI can be a powerful tool that accompanies it's users on their individual journeys! It concludes with a powerful message that everything we seek is already within us, waiting to be uncovered.Rebecca's course Divine Alchemy Coach can be found here https://www.divinealchemycoach.com/divine-alchemy-aiYou can follow Rebecca on Instagram @heart.led.revolutionShow Notes00:00 From Teenager to Working Adult: A Life Realization00:05 The Turning Point: Resignation and Intuition00:20 Questioning Life's Norms00:26 Piecing Together Life's Puzzle00:33 Living for Others vs. Living for Yourself00:50 Rebuilding Your Foundation01:05 Diverse Beliefs and Personal Convictions01:29 Finding Self-Understanding and Purpose02:04 The Power of Personal Responsibility02:27 The Desire for Love and Worthiness02:39 Reframing Your Journey02:47 The Freedom of Non-Personalization02:53 The Message: Everything is Within

In this episode of 'Pulling Threads,' we delve into the common human desire to control what we fear losing, particularly in the context of relationships. Whether you're in the early dating stages or years into a partnership, the urge to define, predict, and control the relationship can often lead to its downfall. Through personal anecdotes and insightful reflections, we explore why we cling to control and how we can shift towards a more grounded, mindful approach to love. Learn how to embrace connection, practice self-love, and navigate the complexities of modern dating with grace and openness. Join us as we unweave old patterns and build stronger ties for a more fulfilling romantic journey. 00:00 Introduction to the Human Experience of Love 00:17 The Desire to Control in Relationships 00:43 Early Stages of Dating and Relationship Sabotage 01:37 The Importance of Connection and Common Behaviors 03:12 Exploring the Fear of Getting Hurt 08:20 The Role of Control and Safety in Love 09:01 Navigating Modern Dating and Seeking Advice 16:07 Understanding Attachment Styles 17:15 Embracing Love Without Guarantees 21:29 Conclusion: Trusting Yourself and Finding Peace

In this episode of Pulling Threads, the host is joined by Bev to discuss the often-overlooked topic of grief during and after breakups and divorce. The conversation delves into the emotional complexities of ending marriages and relationships, the unique type of grief associated with it, and practical tips to help both the individuals going through it and their support systems. They cover a range of topics, including the unexpected waves of grief, the process of healing, the importance of having a support system, and strategies for moving on. They also discuss what not to say to someone going through a divorce and how to be there for friends in these difficult times.00:00 Introduction to Grieving Breakups and Divorce02:15 Understanding the Emotional Impact of Divorce06:16 Navigating the Complexities of Divorce Grief07:51 The Decision-Making Process Before Divorce13:36 Financial and Social Challenges Post-Divorce16:40 Stages of Grief in Divorce22:13 Rebuilding After Divorce30:34 Advice for Those Considering Divorce38:29 Setting Personal Goals and Evaluating Relationships39:29 Assessing Compatibility and Support in Relationships42:21 Making Decisions and Taking Action43:37 Navigating Divorce and Emotional Challenges44:47 Effective Communication During Divorce47:31 Self-Advocacy and Understanding Others57:26 Coping Strategies and Professional Support01:03:29 Final Thoughts and Moving Forward