Love, family, faith, community — the ingredients of an ordinary life that’s anything but ordinary.
In this episode, Laura Dahl invites listeners into a deeply personal reflection on what it means to be seen, loved, and accepted for who you are. Through honest storytelling, humor, and vulnerability, she reminds us that LGBTQ+ families live parallel lives within the same communities — raising kids, volunteering, supporting the arts, donating to charities, and showing up for their neighbors.
This episode is a call to empathy, understanding, and connection. Because at the end of the day, we’re all just trying to live, love, and belong.
Quote highlight:
“We live among you — in your neighborhoods, your schools, your churches.
Different journeys. Same heartbeat. Because we’re not that different after all.”
✨ Reflect deeper with the companion workbook:
👉 Download The Human Blueprint Workbook
🎧 Listen now on The Human Blueprint with Laura Dahl.
Finding Light in Heavy Times
The world feels heavy right now. Division, tragedy, and the constant stream of news and online debates can leave us drained, anxious, and disconnected from the things that matter most. In this episode of The Human Blueprint, we take a much-needed pause to reset, unplug, and rediscover the simple joys that bring balance and peace.
We’ll explore:
How constant exposure to negativity impacts our mental health
Practical ways to set boundaries with social media and news
Everyday joys that anchor us in the middle of uncertainty
Refocusing on what we can control versus what we cannot
How to create healing conversations in divided times
Simple grounding exercises, journal prompts, and reset tools you can use right away
This isn’t about ignoring the world—it’s about finding ways to care for yourself so you can show up with compassion and clarity, even when things feel overwhelming.
Take a deep breath with me in this episode, and let’s reclaim some peace, joy, and perspective together.
📥 Download the free companion workbook for this episode here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1awwpBBbAq62tloWmy2LXYu5hosmdmNx9/view?usp=sharing
What happens when kids become the parents?
In this episode of The Human Blueprint Podcast, Laura Dahl explores parentification—a hidden role reversal that can shape childhood and echo into adulthood. If you grew up feeling responsible for your parent’s emotions, carrying adult responsibilities too soon, or always being the “fixer,” this episode will resonate with you.
The definition of parentification and the two main types: instrumental (practical responsibilities) and emotional (caretaking and support).
Common signs a child is being parentified.
The short- and long-term effects, from anxiety and lost childhood experiences to struggles with boundaries and people-pleasing in adulthood.
How these patterns show up in adult relationships, careers, and daily life.
Practical steps for breaking the cycle—including awareness, boundary-setting, and reclaiming your needs.
Parentification isn’t about blame. It’s about awareness and healing. By naming it, you take the first step toward rewriting your story and reclaiming your right to be cared for.
To support your journey, we’ve created a free companion workbook with a self-assessment quiz, reflection prompts, and practical exercises. Download it here:
📕 Parentification Workbook (PDF)
Parentification can build resilience, but it also leaves lasting emotional weight.
Healing involves small daily practices: asking “What do I need today?”, practicing boundaries, and letting go of responsibilities that aren’t yours.
You deserve care, rest, and support—just as much as anyone else.
What You’ll Learn:
Parentification can build resilience, but it also leaves lasting emotional weight.
Healing involves small daily practices: asking “What do I need today?”, practicing boundaries, and letting go of responsibilities that aren’t yours.
You deserve care, rest, and support—just as much as anyone else.
If this episode resonates with you, please share it with a friend, subscribe to the podcast, and leave a review. Your support helps others find The Human Blueprint Podcast and begin their own journey of healing and growth.
Episode Theme:
In a time when the world feels heavy—politics, health, racism, economic fear—it’s easy to slip into
survival mode.
But what if you could design your life instead of just reacting to it?
This episode explores how to shift from fear-based living to value-driven intention.
It’s about taking back your power.
One small choice at a time.
Core Message:
Fear is loud, but it’s not always right.
It can trick you into shrinking.
It can keep you frozen, small, or constantly bracing for the next blow.
Intention, on the other hand, is steady.
It’s quiet—but deeply powerful.
It reconnects you with your why, your worth, and your wants.
You don’t need the world to calm down for you to live fully.
You need clarity. You need courage. You need intention.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
● How fear subtly shapes your daily decisions
● What intentional living really looks like (with examples)
● Simple tools to help you design your week instead of defaulting to chaos
● A full list of value-based intentions to guide your choices
● How to make aligned decisions, even when the world feels uncertain
Fear-Based vs. Intention-Based Living:
Fear-Based Living:
● Saying yes when you mean no
● Staying in relationships, jobs, or patterns because they feel “safe”
● Avoiding discomfort at all costs
● Consuming media that feeds anxiety
● Choosing security over fulfillment
Intention-Based Living:
● Asking yourself, “What matters to me today?”
● Choosing peace over urgency
● Saying the hard thing because honesty matters
● Trying the new thing because growth matters
● Protecting your energy because your health matters
How to Start Living with Intention:
● Morning Check-In:
Ask: “What do I want to feel today?” or “What do I want to stand for today?”
● Pick One Value:
Anchor your day to it. If it’s honesty, have that tough conversation. If it’s joy, say yes to
something fun.
● Interrupt the Fear Loop:
○ Turn off breaking news notifications
○ Unfollow energy-draining accounts
○ Limit comparison
○ Reclaim your attention span
● Bookend Your Day:
○ Morning: Choose your intention
○ Evening: Reflect on how your actions aligned with it
️
Menu of Value-Based Intentions to Choose From:
Use this list daily, weekly, or whenever you need to reset.
🎯 Clarity + Growth
● Curiosity
● Focus
● Progress
● Boldness
● Learning
● Vision
● Growth
❤️ Connection + Compassion
● Kindness
● Honesty
● Presence
● Empathy
● Love
● Support
● Community
🧘 Calm + Grounding
● Peace
● Simplicity
● Slowness
● Rest
● Mindfulness
● Ease
● Trust
💪 Courage + Strength
● Bravery
● Integrity
● Strength
● Truth
● Conviction
● Resilience
● Confidence
🌟 Purpose + Fulfillment
● Joy
● Creativity
● Freedom
● Abundance
● Adventure
● Contribution
● Gratitude
Pro Tip: You don’t need to do more. You need to choose better.
Let your intention lead.
Reflection Questions:
● Where in your life are you reacting instead of choosing?
● What’s one decision you’re making out of fear?
● What value do you want to lead with this week?
● What does intentional living look like for you right now?
● What’s one small action that reflects the life you actually want?
Calls to Action:
● Try This: Choose one intention for the next 7 days. Let it guide your choices. Share it with us
using #TheHumanBlueprintIntentions
● Download: Grab our free “Intentional Week Starter” worksheet to make this real in your life
● Connect: Share this episode with someone feeling overwhelmed
● Support the Show: Leave a 5-star review and tell us how you’re living on purpose
Resources:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Up_zFh6hP5cDXhurgn02RbMrBwpPogUs?usp=sharing
You can be honest and still hide. But you can’t be transparent without being seen.
In this episode of The Human Blueprint, we dive into the real difference between honesty and transparency—and why most of us are only scratching the surface.
We’ll explore:
How honesty and transparency show up differently in real life
Why we often avoid transparency (hint: fear of judgment, loss of control, vulnerability)
What transparency looks like in work, relationships, parenting, and your personal evolution
How to start being seen without losing your power
This isn’t about oversharing—it’s about living and leading without the mask.
🔗 Get the free workbook to go deeper: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1iX_IQ9kG0O0BpB9rjYcNe_Zjv_u8By-S/view?usp=sharing
Let’s ask the real questions:
Where are you being honest but not transparent?
What do you think you’re protecting?
And what might happen if you just said the truth out loud?
If you loved this episode, share it with someone who’s ready to drop the performance and live unfiltered.
Emotional intelligence (EQ) is the skill that shapes how you handle stress, make decisions, and build relationships. In this episode, we explore what EQ really is, why it often matters more than IQ, and how you can strengthen it to improve your life. You’ll learn the 5 key components of EQ, how to recognize emotional triggers, and practical tips to respond (not react), communicate better, and lead with empathy.
🎧 Listen now: The Human Blueprint Podcast
📥 Get the free EQ Workbook: Download Here
“The Untamed Power of Gratitude” Workbook🌿 Section 1: Exploring Your Relationship With Gratitude
Reflection Questions
Write honestly. There are no right or wrong answers.
When you hear the word “gratitude,” what feelings or thoughts come up?
Do you ever feel pressure to be grateful, even when things are hard? When?
Who taught you about gratitude—directly or indirectly?
How has gratitude shown up during the darkest or most difficult times in your life?
“Gratitude is not a bypass. It’s a reclamation.”
Prompt:
Write about a time when you chose to be grateful in a situation others might have seen only as loss or pain.
What did that choice shift in you?
What were you grateful for and in spite of?
Gratitude doesn’t erase grief—it lives alongside it.
Journaling Exercise
What is something (or someone) you’ve lost recently or are still grieving?
Without dismissing the pain, can you find anything you’re still grateful for within that experience?
Who is someone you deeply appreciate, but maybe haven’t told in a while?
What would you say to them if you were being completely open and specific?
Optional Exercise:
Write them a letter (you don’t have to send it… but you can).
List Exercise
List 3 things you’re grateful for right now, in this moment.
List 3 things you’re grateful for that haven’t happened yet.
This blends current joy with future hope.
🔥 Section 2: Gratitude as Rebellion🤍 Section 3: Grateful and Grieving🤝 Section 4: Gratitude as Connection🌱 Section 5: What’s Present, What’s Possible
Link to Workbook: https://drive.google.com/file/d/13O6t9feXGQZ7QqROkMOQnJ_7Ng-N7sya/view?usp=drive_link
Example:
Two agents give the same market report.
The agent who confidently recommends a clear path forward earns the listing.
Example of Positive Influence:
Helping a first-time buyer feel confident buying despite fear.
Example of Negative Influence:
Pushing a buyer into a home they don’t love just to close a sale.
Finding Motivation When You Don’t Feel Motivated
Welcome to the Human Blueprint Podcast.
A podcast exploring the framework of personal growth, self-discovery, and resilience.
Through relatable stories, humor, and actionable advice, we tackle life’s challenges to
help you build a life of courage,confidence, and connection.
I’m your host, Laura Dahl.
Episode Overview:
● Everyone struggles with motivation at some point—this is normal
● Motivation doesn’t always come first—action often sparks it
● Today, we’ll break down how to manufacture motivation when you don’t feel like doing anything
● Practical strategies to push through when you’re feeling stuck
1. Introduction (3-5 min)
● Welcome listeners and introduce the topic
● Acknowledge that motivation is fleeting—it’s unrealistic to expect to feel motivated all the time
● Personal anecdote: Share a time when you personally lacked motivation but had to push
through anyway (e.g., launching a big project, exercising, writing a book, or even just getting out
of bed some days)
● Tease upcoming strategies:
○ “Today, I’ll share how to create motivation when you don’t have any, the science behind
getting started, and practical tips you can implement right away.”
Engagement Question: When was the last time you felt unmotivated? How did you handle it? Drop
me a message or comment—I’d love to hear!
2. Understanding Motivation (5-7 min)
The Myth of Constant Motivation
● Many people believe that successful or productive people are always motivated—this is false
● Motivation is a feeling, and feelings fluctuate
● Example: A professional athlete doesn’t wake up every day feeling excited to train, but they do
it anyway because they rely on systems, habits, and discipline
Intrinsic vs. Extrinsic Motivation
● Intrinsic Motivation: Driven by personal satisfaction or growth
○ Example: Writing a book because you love storytelling
○ Example: Running because it makes you feel mentally clear
● Extrinsic Motivation: Driven by rewards, recognition, or consequences
○ Example: Meeting a work deadline because your paycheck depends on it
○ Example: Cleaning the house because guests are coming over
Key Takeaway: You don’t have to wait for motivation—sometimes external factors can be the spark to
get started.
3. How to Manufacture Motivation (10-15 min)
A. Take Action First—Action Creates Motivation
● Motivation often follows action, not the other way around
● Example: Instead of waiting to feel like working out, put on your workout shoes and commit to
just 5 minutes—most of the time, you’ll keep going
● Psychological concept: The Zeigarnik Effect—our brains don’t like unfinished tasks, so once
we start something, we feel compelled to finish it
B. Reduce the Activation Energy—Make It Easy to Start
● Lower the barrier to entry so the first step is easy
● Examples:
○ Want to start reading more? Keep a book by your bed, open to the page you left off
○ Want to eat healthier? Prep snacks ahead of time so you’re not tempted by junk food
○ Want to write every morning? Have your laptop open with a blank doc ready the night
before
C. Habit Stacking—Attach New Actions to Existing Habits
● Developed by James Clear in Atomic Habits
● Pair a new habit with something you already do consistently
● Examples:
○ After I make my morning coffee, I will journal for 2 minutes
○ After I brush my teeth at night, I will do 10 squats
○ After I check my email, I will send one outreach message
D. The 2-Minute Rule—Start Small to Avoid Overwhelm
● Break down big goals into tiny, manageable steps
● If something feels overwhelming, shrink it
● Examples:
○ Instead of “I need to clean the house,” start with “I’ll wipe down one counter”
○ Instead of “I need to write a chapter,” start with “I’ll write one sentence”
○ Instead of “I need to work out,” start with “I’ll stretch for two minutes”
Why it works: Once you start, your brain shifts from “I have to” to “I’m already doing this.”
E. The Power of Accountability & Environment
● Your surroundings influence your motivation more than you think
● Examples of environment hacks:
○ If you want to eat better, remove junk food from your home
○ If you want to read more, surround yourself with books
○ If you want to work out, lay out your gym clothes the night before
● Examples of accountability hacks:
○ Tell a friend your goal and ask them to check in
○ Join a group (online or in-person) with like-minded people
○ Commit publicly (post on social media that you’re starting something)
4. Overcoming Common Motivation Blocks (8-10 min)
A. Procrastination & Perfectionism
● Many people don’t start because they think they need to do it perfectly
● Example: You don’t need the perfect gym outfit or the best equipment—just start moving
● Strategy: The 15-minute rule—set a timer and commit to doing something for 15 minutes.
Often, you’ll keep going
B. Burnout & Exhaustion
● Sometimes a lack of motivation is actually a sign that you need rest
● Example: If you’re drained, motivation won’t come—schedule intentional recovery time
● Strategy: Try the 80/20 rule—focus on the tasks that bring the most results rather than trying to
do everything
C. Fear of Failure
● Fear keeps many people from even starting
● Example: If you’re afraid to launch a business, write down the worst-case scenario—often, it’s
not as bad as your mind makes it seem
● Strategy: Reframe failure as data—each failure teaches you something, and every attempt
brings you closer to success
5. Practical Takeaways & Challenges (5-7 min)
● Recap the key points:
○ Motivation isn’t something you wait for—it’s something you create
○ Start small, take action first, and lower the barrier to entry
○ Use habit stacking and accountability to stay on track
○ Address common blocks like procrastination, burnout, and fear
Challenge for Listeners:
● Pick one strategy from today’s episode and commit to trying it for the next week
● Example prompts:
○ Set a 15-minute timer for a task you’ve been putting off
○ Try habit stacking—attach a new habit to an existing one
○ Reduce activation energy—make it easier to start
Engagement:
● “Let me know what worked for you! Tag me on Instagram or send me a message—I’d love to
hear your experience.”
6. Closing (3-5 min)
● Thank listeners for tuning in
● Next week’s episode teaser: Give a hint about the next topic
● Call to action:
○ If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend
○ Encourage engagement: “What helps you find motivation when you’re feeling stuck?
Message me—I’d love to feature your ideas in a future episode.”
What if ADHD isn’t a deficit—but a set of hidden strengths?
In this episode of The Human Blueprint, we reframe ADHD as a superpower. Laura shares personal stories and practical tools to help you stop fighting your brain and start using it to your advantage.
You'll learn how to:
This episode is for:
ADHD isn’t a flaw. It’s a different operating system. And once you understand how it works, it can change everything.
Workbook and accompanying exercises can be found here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1NHoSTwKKYcIgTJ_NF1r6TfbOoY34FjRC/view?usp=sharing
Mel Robbins’ Let Them philosophy is powerful but does it apply to everything? In this episode of The Human Blueprint Podcast, I dive into the distinction between letting go and setting boundaries. While we can’t control others, we also don’t have to tolerate disrespect, toxicity, or negativity.
I’m done with keyboard warriors, polarizing rhetoric, and the culture of unchecked nastiness. In this episode, i’ll break down:
When “letting them” brings peace vs. when it enables harm
The importance of boundaries in real life and online
How to push back against toxicity while protecting your energy
Let’s talk about what we should and shouldn’t tolerate. Where do you need to draw the line? Drop a comment and let’s discuss!
Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share if this episode resonates with you!
Friendships are more than just social connections. They are essential to our well-being, happiness, and personal growth. In this episode of The Human Blueprint Podcast, we dive into the different types of friendships we all need in our lives, from the Cheerleader who lifts you up to the Truth-Teller who keeps you grounded.
We’ll explore how to identify the roles your friends play, the importance of nurturing meaningful relationships, and how to let go of those that no longer serve you. Plus, discover practical tips to build stronger, healthier connections and reflection prompts to evaluate your current friendships.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
1. The six types of friendships and the unique roles they play in your life.
2. Why friendships are vital to your emotional and mental well-being.
3. How to strengthen your friendships through intentionality and communication.
4. When it’s time to let go of toxic or unfulfilling relationships.
5. Practical steps to create the friendships you’ve always wanted.
Reflection Questions:
What kind of friend are you to others?
Are there gaps in your circle of friends?
Which friendships bring you the most joy, and how can you nurture them?
Free Resource: Download the Friendship Reflection Workbook for exercises, prompts, and actionable steps to evaluate and enhance your friendships: (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1iaBQ-KhtxjpBc26YkqKq4PQzoDX_zRSDRPSEdFM7AjM/edit)
What does it mean to truly be independent and self-reliant? In this episode of The Human Blueprint Podcast, we explore the power of independence and how to cultivate self-reliance in every aspect of life. From trusting yourself to overcoming common barriers like fear and self-doubt, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you stand strong on your own two feet.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
1. What independence and self-reliance really mean and how they apply to your life.
2. Why trusting yourself is key to confidence, fulfillment, and personal growth.
3. Common barriers to independence and how to overcome them.
4. Practical steps to develop independence and take ownership of your choices.
5. Real-life examples of independence in relationships, finances, work, and emotional well-being.
💡 Reflection Questions:
• What does independence mean to you?
• Where do you feel overly dependent, and how can you shift toward self-reliance?
• What fears or beliefs are holding you back from taking ownership of your life?
📥 Download the Independence and Self-Reliance Workbook: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1gj3w0jC_XD5w4seSrIFqQ1fe9dQsUscZ/view?usp=drivesdk
Start building your strength from within today!
Boundaries are the foundation of healthy relationships, self-care, and personal well-being. But during the holiday season, family dynamics, social pressures, and overcommitments can push boundaries to their limits. In this episode, we explore why boundaries are essential, the types of boundaries people often struggle with, and how to hold your ground with kindness and confidence.
Learn how to protect your time, energy, and peace this holiday season—and all year long.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
• Why boundaries are a necessary form of self-care.
• The different types of boundaries (time, emotional, financial, and more) and how they show up in daily life.
• Common ways boundaries are violated and how to respond.
• Practical strategies to set, communicate, and hold boundaries without guilt.
• How boundaries can transform relationships and reduce stress.
How often do you pause to evaluate if your actions truly align with your values? This week on The Human Blueprint Podcast, I’m joined by Debbie Chamberlain, author of Stepping Stones: Stories of Finding Footing in Uncertain Times. Together, we explore the concept of personal integrity and how living in alignment with your core beliefs can transform your relationships, career, and confidence.
🎙️ In this episode, we discuss:
• What personal integrity is and why it’s essential for a fulfilling life.
• How to identify and define your core values.
• The challenges of staying true to your values in difficult times.
• Actionable tips for aligning your daily decisions with your personal code of ethics.
📥 Resources Mentioned:
• Download the Personal Integrity Workbook: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1_0Fp2VY4Vgb9oPwTQNjXFnyiEXcIM1GI/view?usp=drivesdk
• Learn more about Debbie Chamberlain (https://debbiegreerchamberlain.com/) and her book Stepping Stones: Stories of Finding Footing in Uncertain Times: https://a.co/d/eKHNuVV
Episode Title: Giving Yourself the Love You Deserve
Podcast Name: The Human Blueprint
Episode Summary:
In this episode of The Human Blueprint, we explore the powerful concept of self-love and why it’s essential to your well-being. Learn how to treat yourself with the same kindness you extend to others, reframe negative self-talk, and prioritize self-care without guilt. This conversation dives into actionable strategies to build a healthier relationship with yourself and inspire confidence from within.
Key Topics Covered:
Why Self-Love Matters
Treating Yourself Like a Friend
The Power of Positive Self-Talk
Self-Care as a Necessity, Not a Luxury
Building a Routine of Self-Love
Actionable Takeaways:
Resources & Links:
Connect With Us:
Have thoughts or feedback about this episode? Share them with us on social media or send an email to hello@humanblueprintpod.com. We’d love to hear from you!
Rate & Review:
If you loved this episode, please leave a review and share it with a friend. Your support helps us reach more people who need these conversations.
Transition Statement: "Living unencumbered doesn’t require a complete life overhaul. It starts with small, intentional actions that align you with your true self."
Challenge Comfort Zones
Carve Out Solo Time
Simplify Obligations
Reflect on Wins and Growth
Practice Saying ‘Yes’ and ‘No’ Authentically
"Each small action you take is like planting a seed for an unencumbered life. Next, we’ll talk about the importance of taking that first big step."
Transition Statement: "Sometimes the hardest part of living unencumbered is taking the first step, but it’s also the most empowering."
Create a ‘Dare-to-Dream’ List
Ask Yourself a New Question Each Morning
Take One Risk Each Week
Do a 30-Day Challenge Focused on Your Unencumbered Self
Practice Self-Compassion and Drop Perfection
Build a Vision Board or Affirmation List
Schedule Reflection Time
"The first step might feel scary, but it’s the most important—and the most rewarding."
Welcome to the very first episode of The Human Blueprint! In this introduction, I’ll share my story—who I am, the challenges that have shaped me, and why I’ve been inspired to create this podcast. Together, we’ll explore what it means to reflect, grow, and transform as human beings. You’ll get a sneak peek at the topics we’ll dive into each week, the inspiration behind the show, and what you can expect from our time together. Let’s start this journey of discovery and transformation—one blueprint at a time.
Show Notes
1. Who Am I?
2. Why I Started The Human Blueprint
3. What to Expect
4. Closing Thoughts
5. Call to Action
Links Mentioned in This Episode:
