Welcome to the Unfiltered with Roxy podcast, where we embark on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment together. I'm Roxana Feenster, your host, and I'm thrilled to welcome you into this safe space filled with warmth, wisdom, and genuine connection.
Unfiltered with Roxy is more than just a podcast; it's a sanctuary where mindfulness meets practicality, offering real advice and solutions to help you truly rock your life. Each episode is curated with love and intention, aiming to nourish your soul and inspire positive change.
Join me as we dive deep into meaningful conversations with inspirational guests, sharing their stories, insights, and the wisdom they've gathered along their own paths. Together, we'll explore wellness and mindfulness gems that serve as fuel for our journey towards living our best lives.
Whether you're seeking clarity, motivation, or simply a moment of peace, Roxy Unfiltered is here to support you every step of the way. Let's embark on this transformative journey together, no filters!
Welcome to the Unfiltered with Roxy podcast, where we embark on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment together. I'm Roxana Feenster, your host, and I'm thrilled to welcome you into this safe space filled with warmth, wisdom, and genuine connection.
Unfiltered with Roxy is more than just a podcast; it's a sanctuary where mindfulness meets practicality, offering real advice and solutions to help you truly rock your life. Each episode is curated with love and intention, aiming to nourish your soul and inspire positive change.
Join me as we dive deep into meaningful conversations with inspirational guests, sharing their stories, insights, and the wisdom they've gathered along their own paths. Together, we'll explore wellness and mindfulness gems that serve as fuel for our journey towards living our best lives.
Whether you're seeking clarity, motivation, or simply a moment of peace, Roxy Unfiltered is here to support you every step of the way. Let's embark on this transformative journey together, no filters!
🎙️ Unfiltered with Roxy – Episode 26: Mindful Momentum: My Fall Glow Up — Finishing the Year Focused & Grounded
Welcome to Unfiltered with Roxy, where mindfulness meets practicality.
This episode is all about finishing the year focused, grounded, and glowing from within, not from filters or hustle, but from peace, purpose, and inner alignment.
I’ve been reflecting on what it really means to “glow up.” It’s not just about the outside anymore, it’s about how my blood work, blood pressure, and hormones reflect the care I’m giving myself. My glow up this fall has been about feeling better, thinking clearer, and being unapologetically intentional about how I move through the world.
I’m also shifting how I view success and community. I no longer chase the grind or overextend myself for validation. I’m connecting with people who are either where I’m going or on their way there too. Because this season isn’t about proving, it’s about preparing, positioning, and planting seeds for what’s next.
Episode Summary
This episode is a reflection on mindful growth and balance — how to maintain momentum without burnout, and how to glow from the inside out.
I share personal stories about the changes I’ve made to honor my health and peace, from adjusting my daily habits to redefining my professional boundaries.
We talk about the real glow up — how rest can be productive, how discipline and delight can coexist, and how you can still move fast while staying grounded in grace.
You’ll walk away feeling inspired to finish this year not with pressure, but with presence.
Lessons & Themes
Health is the new glow — hormones, heart, and healing matter more than aesthetics.
Your pace is your power — fast doesn’t mean frantic when it’s focused.
Peace and productivity can coexist.
Quote of the Day“I’m not chasing a glow that fades — I’m building one that heals.” 🌾
✨ Join Me on the Road to 1,000 Subscribers on YouTube!✨
I’m building a community of healing, growth, and unfiltered conversations. By subscribing, you’re not just helping me reach a milestone — you’re helping spread the message that real change starts with inner change.
🎁 Monthly Giveaways – All subscribers are automatically entered into my self-care giveaways as a thank-you for being part of this community (winners announced in the YouTube Community tab).
🌟 Major Giveaway – When we hit 1,000 subscribers, one lucky subscriber will win their choice of a 1:1 self-care coaching session OR a self-care basket.
👉 Subscribe here: Unfiltered with Roxy on YouTube
Resources to Help You on Your Journey
🎧 5 Mind Clutter Mistakes I Made for Years (Until I Learned Better)
📖 Clean Mind, Clean Body – Tara Stiles (available on OverDrive)
💬 Unfiltered with Roxy: Fall Glow Up Reflection Worksheet (Download on Substack)
These resources will help you clear mental clutter, reset your focus, and keep your momentum mindful as we head into the new year.
Connect with Me
✍🏽 Substack – Unfiltered with Roxy
📸 Instagram – @unfilteredwithroxy
🎙️ Podcast – Unfiltered with Roxy on Spotify
💌 Final NoteThank you for taking the time to reflect and reset with me today. If this message resonated, share it with someone who might need a reminder that slowing down and protecting your peace is still progress.
Let’s keep walking this journey of healing, growth, and unfiltered living together. 💛
Remember: look at yourself with rose-colored glasses, because you’re doing the best you can. 🌹
🎙️ Unfiltered with Roxy – Episode 25:
Clear Space, Clear Mind: 5 Steps to a Mindful Declutter
Welcome to Unfiltered with Roxy, where mindfulness meets practicality.
This episode is all about decluttering your space to heal your mind and body. I’ve been listening to Joy at Work by Marie Kondo and Scott Sonenshein (it’s free right now on the Libby app), and one quote hit me deeply:
“Clutter also adversely affects health. According to a study by scientists at UCLA, being surrounded by too many things increases cortisol levels, a primary stress hormone.”
That line connected the dots for me because I’ve been living it.
Stress has been showing up in my body through high blood pressure, prediabetes, and kidney strain. When I learned that clutter literally raises cortisol, it clicked: I wasn’t just overwhelmed, I was overworked inside and out.
So in this episode, we’re unpacking how clutter impacts your brain, hormones, and health — and how mindful decluttering can help you reclaim your energy, focus, and peace.
Episode Summary
Decluttering isn’t just about a tidy space, it’s about creating calm for your nervous system.
I share my personal story of burnout, clutter, and the moment I realized my environment was mirroring my inner chaos.
Through laughter, honesty, and reflection, I take you behind the scenes of my own basement cleanout, a process that became a symbol of letting go, forgiving myself, and choosing peace.
We explore what science says about clutter and cortisol, how disorganization affects focus and creativity, and how mindful tidying can literally lower stress levels and restore your sense of control.
This episode will guide you through five simple but powerful steps to declutter your space and your mind, while joining the Fall Mindful Clean-Out Challenge to keep the momentum going all season long.
Lessons & Themes
Clutter isn’t just visual, it’s emotional and hormonal.
Your space reflects your state of mind.
Decluttering lowers stress and boosts creativity.
Letting go of items is also letting go of old versions of yourself.
Small, intentional habits can create peace in both your home and your body.
Quote of the Day
“This isn’t just about decluttering, it’s about making space for the peace you want and deserve.” 🌿
✨ Join Me on the Road to 1,000 Subscribers on YouTube! I’m building a community of healing, growth, and unfiltered conversations. By subscribing, you’re not just helping me reach a milestone, you’re helping spread the message that real change starts with inner change. Hit subscribe and be part of the journey!
🎁 Monthly Giveaways – All subscribers are automatically entered into my self-care giveaways as a thank-you for being part of this community (winners announced in the YouTube Community tab).
🌟 Major Giveaway – When we hit 1,000 subscribers, one lucky subscriber will win their choice of a 1:1 self-care coaching session OR a self-care basket.
✨Resources
Joy at Work – Marie Kondo & Scott Sonenshein
UCLA Study on Clutter & Cortisol (Center on Everyday Lives of Families)
The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up – Marie Kondo
Mindful Declutter Challenge Playlist – YouTube
Connect with Me
✍🏽 Substack – Unfiltered with Roxy
📸 Instagram – @unfilteredwithroxy
🎙️ Podcast – Unfiltered with Roxy on Spotify
💌 Final NoteThank you for taking the time to reflect and reset with me today. If this message resonated, share it with someone who might need a reminder to slow down and make space for peace.
Let’s keep walking this journey of healing, growth, and unfiltered living together. 💛
Remember: look at yourself with rose-colored glasses, because you’re doing the best you can. 🌹
🎙️ Unfiltered with Roxy – Episode 24:
Adult Friendships: Layers of Connection at a Big Age
Welcome to Unfiltered with Roxy!
Friendship isn’t just about fun nights out or sharing laughs, it’s about who shows up for you in the heavy, unglamorous moments. In this episode of Unfiltered with Roxy, I dive into what it means to build, keep, and grow friendships as adults, and why they matter so deeply for our well-being.
Episode Summary
Adult friendship can feel complicated. Between busy schedules, past wounds, and life transitions, many of us wonder why friendship feels harder now than it did when we were kids.
I share my own friendship journey, from situational friends as a young mom to the deep family and work friendships that carried me through grief and growth. I reflect on how watching my kids navigate friendships has taught me about loyalty, forgiveness, and resilience. And I highlight why making space for your own needs is the foundation of truly being there for others.
I also share personal stories, from reconnecting with old friends to how my morning self-care routine helps me show up better in relationships.
Lessons & Themes
Friendship comes in many forms: neighbors, hobby buddies, family friends, coworkers, and lifelong confidants.
True friends show up in both the joyful and the hard moments.
Making space for your own healing and needs is essential for healthy friendships.
Distance doesn’t have to end friendships, it just takes intention and effort.
Growth means forgiving ourselves for past mistakes and choosing to show up better now.
Quote of the Day
“Friendship isn’t about who you’ve known the longest. It’s about who walked into your life, said ‘I’m here,’ and proved it.”
✨ Join me on the road to 1,000 subscribers on YouTube! ✨
I’m building a community of healing, growth, and unfiltered conversations. By subscribing, you’re not just helping me reach a milestone, you’re helping spread the message that real change starts with inner change. Hit subscribe and be part of the journey!
🎁 All subscribers are automatically entered into my monthly self-care giveaways as a thank-you for being part of this community (winners announced in the Community tab).
🌟 And when we hit 1,000 subscribers, one lucky subscriber will win the major giveaway: your choice of a 1:1 self-care coaching session OR a self-care basket.
Resources
Lisa Whelchel – Friendship for Grown-Ups
Shasta Nelson – Frientimacy
Aminatou Sow & Ann Friedman – Big Friendship
Dr. Rangan Chatterjee – Feel Better, Live More podcast, Ep. 177 + bite-sized episodes
Unprocessed Podcast – “Should Our Friends Re-Mother Us?”
Friend Forward Podcast – Danielle Bayard Jackson
The Black Mother Wound Podcast – Episode #057
Connect with Me
Podcast: Unfiltered with Roxy on Spotify
🎙️ Unfiltered with Roxy – Episode 23
Self-Compassion: The Freedom to Forgive Yourself and Grow
Welcome to Unfiltered with Roxy!
In this episode, we’re exploring the practice of self-compassion—why it’s more than self-care, why it’s not weakness, and how it can free us from shame, harsh self-talk, and the weight of unforgiveness.
🌈 Episode SummaryAfter a week of setbacks, from taxes and financial stress to perimenopause struggles, I realized what I needed wasn’t more grit or positivity—it was self-compassion. In this episode, I share my own story of procrastination, shame, and starting from zero, and how friends, faith, and research reminded me that the world is full of helpers and that kindness toward myself was the key to moving forward.
Together, we’ll explore five ways to practice self-compassion—rooted in psychology, spirituality, and lived experience—and why forgiving not only ourselves and others but even broken systems can release us into peace and growth.
✨ Key Lessons & Themes
Be Kind to Yourself: Replace harsh self-talk with gentleness.
We’re All Human: Sharing your story dissolves shame and builds connection.
Feelings Are Signals, Not Definitions: Anger, sadness, and frustration don’t define you.
Encouraging Self-Talk: Look at yourself through rose-colored glasses, not harsh lenses.
Mind, Body & Spirit: Compassion is holistic—pray, rest, forgive, and nurture your whole self.
💬 Quote of the Day
“Self-compassion is the foundation of freedom. When we forgive ourselves, others, and systems, we make space for joy, love, and peace. In that space, we open the way to greatness and create the opportunity for exponential growth.” — Roxana Feenster
🎁 Road to 1K YouTube Challenge
I’m on the journey to 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours—but this is about more than numbers. It’s about:
Changing our inner dialogue first,
Then shifting how we show up in our circles,
And ultimately transforming the world around us.
When we heal ourselves, we create ripples of healing everywhere we go.
🎉 To celebrate this milestone, I’m giving away a Self-Care Basket or a 1:1 Self-Care Plan Session.
👉 To enter: Subscribe, like, and share the podcast on Unfiltered with Roxy YouTube.
📚 Mentioned Resources
Sanjana Gupta, Verywell Mind (2024): 5 Self-Compassion Exercises to Practice Daily (reviewed by Rachel Goldman, PhD; with insights from Stephanie Strauss).
🎙️ YouTube: Unfiltered with Roxy
📝 Blog: Unfiltered with Roxy on Substack
📸 Instagram: @RoxyUnfiltered
🎙️ Unfiltered with Roxy – Episode 22: Unpacking the “Good Vibes Only” Myth: When Positivity Turns Toxic
Welcome to Unfiltered with Roxy!
In this episode, we’re diving into the world of toxic positivity—those shiny phrases like “good vibes only” and “just stay positive” that sound helpful, but can actually silence real emotions and keep us from healing.
🌈 Episode Summary
We’ll unpack why “good vibes only” isn’t always good, how suppressing emotions can backfire, and why embracing the full spectrum of feelings—sadness, anger, grief, even jealousy—leads to deeper growth and resilience.
I’ll also share my personal journey with loss and faith, explore how toxic positivity shows up on social media and in our everyday lives, and highlight expert insights from The Verywell Mind Podcast with therapist Amy Morin, LCSW, and Paralympic gold medalist Mallory Weggemann.
✨ Key Lessons & Themes
Why Every Emotion Matters: Sadness, anger, and grief each serve a purpose in healing and transformation.
Words That Heal: Swap dismissive clichés for validating language:
“Just stay positive” → “I’m listening.”
“Good vibes only” → “I’m here no matter what.”
“It could be worse” → “That must be really hard.”
“Happiness is a choice” → “Your feelings are valid.”
Real Resilience: Healthy optimism says, “This is hard, but I trust I can get through it.” Toxic positivity says, “This isn’t hard at all, and you’re wrong for feeling it is.”
Quote of the Day
“Feeling sad doesn’t mean you’re broken. It means you’re human.”
🎁 Road to 1K YouTube ChallengeI’m on the journey to 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours—but this is about more than numbers. It’s about:
Changing our inner dialogue first,
Then shifting how we show up in our circles,
And ultimately transforming the world around us.
When we heal ourselves, we create ripples of healing everywhere we go.
🎉 To celebrate this milestone, I’m giving away a Self-Care Basket or a 1:1 Self-Care Plan Session.
👉 To enter: Subscribe, like, and share the podcast on Unfiltered with Roxy YouTube.
The Verywell Mind Podcast with Amy Morin & Mallory Weggemann
Journaling practices (morning pages + prompts)
Breathwork & grounding techniques
🎙️ YouTube: Unfiltered with Roxy
📝 Blog: Unfiltered with Roxy on Substack
📸 Instagram: @RoxyUnfiltered
#UnfilteredWithRoxy #ToxicPositivity #GoodVibesOnlyMyth #AllVibesWelcome #AuthenticLiving #EmotionalIntelligence #ItsOkayToNotBeOkay #MindfulnessMeetsPracticality
🎙️ Unfiltered with Roxy - Episode 21: The Pivot: Why It’s Hard… But Necessary
Turning life’s unexpected detours into fuel for your dreams
Welcome to Unfiltered with Roxy!
In this episode, we’re diving into one of life’s most challenging realities — the pivot. Whether it’s a sudden job loss, a health crisis, or a relationship ending, pivots can feel like they shake your whole world. I’m sharing my own stories — from losing what I thought was my dream job to navigating my mom’s cancer diagnosis — and how these experiences taught me the value of dream time, self-care, and staying agile when life changes direction.
Episode Summary
From basketball “suicides” in high school to life’s own sprints and stops, this episode unpacks what it means to pivot with grace, faith, and purpose. I share why self-care is about more than bubble baths, how planning for your dreams keeps resentment at bay, and the hard truth that sometimes God ends a chapter before we’re ready.
Key Lessons & Themes:
The Pivot is Inevitable: Change is coming whether you want it or not — your response determines your outcome.
Dream Time Matters: Having big, audacious goals gives you something to work toward when disappointment hits.
Self-Care as Preparation: Build a life that can bend without breaking — spiritually, emotionally, and practically.
The Dream Time check List:
Break each into small, doable steps.
Put the first step on your calendar this week.
Set a small savings goal toward one dream.
Quote of the Day
“The pivot isn’t the end of the dream — it’s just the turn toward the next one.”
Mentioned Resources:
My blog post on The Pivot
Andrea’s wisdom on “dream time”
Personal lessons from therapy on the inner child and self-worth
Let's Keep This Conversation Going:
If this episode resonated with you, please like, subscribe, and share on YouTube to be entered into a giveaway for either a Self-Care Basket or a 1:1 Personalized Self-Care Plan.
🚀 Road to 1K + Giveaway
I’m on the road to 1,000 YouTube subscribers, and I’d love your support!
✅ Like
✅ Subscribe
✅ Share with a friend who needs this message today
💡 Giveaway Alert — When you subscribe, you’ll be entered to win:
A 1:1 chat with me where I’ll create a personalized self-care outline for you
OR
A curated Self-Care Basket shipped right to your door
Let’s grow together — and keep pushing toward those big dreams.
🎙️ Unfiltered with Roxy - Episode 20: Beautiful Boundaries: Choosing Peace Over Chaos
Welcome to Unfiltered with Roxy! In this deeply personal episode, turning 48 has me in a super growth reflection mode. I’m sharing my journey of setting boundaries, reclaiming peace, and letting go—whether it’s with friendships, family, or my own habits.
Episode Summary
From navigating toxic friendships in my 30s and 40s to addressing misunderstandings with my adult children, this episode dives deep into what it takes to protect your joy and live authentically. I open up about why I’m no longer bending over backwards for relationships that drain me, the importance of honoring my time, and how I’m learning to release the guilt around putting my peace first.
Key Lessons & Themes
Value Your Time: Your time is the one resource you can’t get back—protect it fiercely.
Boundaries with Adult Children: Stop enabling drama, address temper tantrums with firm expectations, and refuse to be their emotional dumping ground.
Mindful Living: Enjoy your meal, finish your work, or savor your outing before responding to interruptions.
Healthy Space in Relationships: Forced togetherness doesn’t always foster closeness; small, intentional moments often do more.
Quote of the Day“We already have peace and forgiveness in overflow—we just have to walk in it. I’m learning to let go of being right and instead focus on being whole.”Mentioned Resources
Let’s Keep This Conversation Going
If this episode resonated with you, please like, subscribe, and share on YouTube to be entered into a giveaway for either a Self-Care Basket or a 1:1 Personalized Self-Care Plan. I’m on the road to 1K followers—your support means the world! Share this with a friend or family member who could use some encouragement today, and don’t forget to leave a review.
🎙️ Unfiltered with Roxy – Episode 19:
Summer Mindfulness: Routines, Rituals & Growth
Welcome back to Unfiltered with Roxy! I’m your host, Roxana Feenster—and today we’re talking about how summer is the perfect season to reset, grow, and lean into the routines and rituals that support your best self. From early morning starts to connecting with nature, this episode is your reminder to soak up the sunshine—inside and out.
🎧 Episode Summary:This episode blends summer vibes with mindful living. I share my own routines, reflections, and favorite warm-weather self-care practices—from yard work and gardening to decluttering, breathwork, and stretching. We’ll talk about why perfection isn’t the goal, how to prioritize your peace, and the importance of showing up for your body, your community, and even the earth.
✨ In this episode, I talk about:
The 5 a.m. club and why summer is a great time to try it
Building routines when school schedules aren’t in the way
The mood-boosting power of sunshine and outdoor movement
Gardening, yard work, and decluttering as self-care
Investing in yourself and your comfort—yes, buy the clothes!
Why “I’m going to die anyway” is the worst excuse for neglecting your health
Showing up for the planet with mindful, sustainable choices
Summer as a season of exponential growth—for plants and people
Rituals that keep you centered: breathwork, yoga, meditation, hydration
Finding balance and staying consistent in your self-care practices
💬 Roxy’s Quote of the Day:
“Summer is exponential growth—plants, people, and peace. Stay consistent with what feeds you.”
🎁 Subscriber Love:
Thank you to everyone helping me on my road to 1K YouTube views! 💕 Your likes, comments, and shares keep me going.
✨ Like, subscribe, and share this episode to enter for a chance at a 1:1 Self-Care Chat or a Self-Care Gift Basket.
📌 Mentioned in this episode:
📸 IG: @RoxyUnfiltered
💌 Blog: Unfiltered with Roxy on Substack
🎧 Podcast: Unfiltered with Roxy on Spotify, Apple, YouTube & more
#UnfilteredWithRoxy, #SummerSelfCare, #MindfulLiving, #MorningRoutine, #RitualsThatHeal, #SeasonOfGrowth, #HealingInRealTime, #SelfCareJourney, #LifeInBalance, #PodcastLife
48 life lessons to live by 💫 Watch now & read the blog: https://roxanafeenster.substack.com
🎙️ Unfiltered with Roxy – Episode 18:
48ish Life Lessons at 48 - Part 3
Welcome back to Unfiltered with Roxy! I’m your host, Roxana Feenster—and in this final installment of my “48ish Life Lessons at 48,” I’m wrapping up the wisdom, reflections, and ah-ha moments I’ve collected over nearly five decades of life. If you missed Part 1 or Part 2, you can go back anytime—but today’s episode can stand beautifully on its own.
🎧 Episode Summary:
This episode is a deep, unfiltered walk through the final lessons of my 48th year—on love, growth, inner healing, faith, self-care, and the courage to keep showing up. From reparenting your inner child to dressing like you love yourself right now, we go there. If you're in a reflective season or looking for motivation to live with more intention, this is your sign to lean:
Loving your body—all of it, even the soft parts
Drinking your water (your brain, skin, and spirit will thank you)
The power of kindness, journaling, and capturing breakthrough ideas
Daily movement as a mood and mindset reset
Letting your spiritual connection live beyond the church walls
Loving your children at every stage (and enjoying your adult kids too!)
Affirming your intelligence and bravery—yes, you’re wise!
Grounding in nature and using the beach as healing medicine
Making a list of what you want and what you won’t accept anymore
Reconnecting with your inner child and celebrating them
Taking radical responsibility: You are your own rescue team
Understanding that challenges lead to growth
Validating your feelings—yes, sometimes cussing helps 😅
Protecting your energy and walking away from what's draining you
Trusting yourself—you’re already great
Facing death with peace and giving people their flowers now
Honoring parent relationships—with love or graceful release
Taking photos (don’t duck the camera—you’re part of the story)
Letting music and frequency help you heal
Rediscovering childhood passions and play
Dressing like you love yourself—no more “someday clothes”
Knowing you deserve nice things—stop waiting
Treating self-care as sacred, not optional
Giving yourself grace to make mistakes (just don’t repeat them)
Recognizing red flags and walking away the first time
Building real friendships with your neighbors—proximity matters
Continuing to learn long after school is done
Quitting jobs or relationships that no longer serve you
Remembering why you started when the journey feels long
Knowing you are deeply loved—even on the hard days
Walking in the legacy of your ancestors
Embracing rest as sacred, not earned
Letting every lesson build you toward your next level
Choosing how you show up—every single day
Forgiving and letting go—because freedom is better
Finding a mentor, coach, and friend (and knowing they’re not the same)
Reclaiming your story and sharing your truth to break generational cycles
💬 Roxy’s Quote of the Day: “Everything is a lesson—pay attention so you can pass the test. You don’t want to repeat it.”
🎁 Subscriber Love:Special thanks to everyone who's been rocking with me through this series—your messages and shares mean everything! 💕✨ Want to win a 1:1 Self-Care Chat or a Self-Care Gift Basket? Just like, subscribe, and share this podcast with someone who needs it, not just anyone. Tag me so I know you entered!
Mentioned in this episode:
Blog versions of all 48ish Life Lessons on Substack
Part 1 and Part 2 of this series are available on Spotify, YouTube, and all podcast platforms
📝 Connect with Me:📸 IG: @RoxyUnfiltered
💌 Blog: Unfiltered with Roxy on Substack
🎧 Listen: Unfiltered with Roxy on Spotify, Apple, YouTube & more
#UnfilteredWithRoxy, #48LifeLessons, #LifeAt48, #SelfCareJourney, #HealingInRealTime, #GiveThemTheirFlowers, #ReparentYourself, #NatureHeals, #FaithAndHealing, #AuthenticLiving, #MindBodySoul, #MotivationalPodcast
Unfiltered with Roxy – Episode 17:
48ish Life Lessons at 48 (Part 2)
Welcome back to Unfiltered with Roxy! In Part 2 of my “48ish Life Lessons at 48,” I’m continuing to unpack what I’ve learned, loved, and lived—lessons that are still unfolding with each passing day.
Episode Summary:
This episode is all about pouring from a full cup, loving your body through the aches, and giving people their flowers while they're still here. Whether you're on a healing journey, balancing family life, or just trying to get the dishes done—there’s something in this episode for you. 💛
✨ In this episode, I talk about:
Why you can’t pour from an empty cup
How doing the things you love—like gardening or laughing at funny animal videos—can refill your spirit
The reminder that "these are the good old days" even if they don’t feel like it
The importance of showing up for people—your presence matters more than your paycheck
Following your dreams so you don’t live in a cycle of “shoulda, coulda, woulda”
Reading and learning from others’ stories so you don’t have to relearn the hard way
Giving people their flowers while they’re alive (a tender moment honoring my mom)
Why it's worth it to clean the dishes at night (you’ll thank yourself in the morning!)
The power of making sure everything in your house has a home
Learning to love your body for carrying you this far, even through pain and healing
💬 “Don’t live in shoulda, coulda, woulda. Try the thing, buy the skates, see what lights you up. If it’s not for you—resell it. But don’t hold back.”
🎁 Special shout-out to my first 19 subscribers—I see you and appreciate you! 💌 As a thank you, I’m giving away a free 1:1 Self-Care Chat and a Self-Care Starter Kit filled with goodies to help you reset. Just tag me in the comments and share this podcast with someone who’s ready to receive it. 💕
📌 Want to catch up on Part 1?
Listen now on Spotify, YouTube, or read the blog recap on Substack.
📝 Connect with me:
📸 IG: @RoxyUnfiltered
💌 Blog: Unfiltered with Roxy on Substack
🎧 Podcast: Unfiltered with Roxy on your favorite platform
#48LifeLessons #UnfilteredWithRoxy #SelfCareJourney #LifeAt48 #PourFromAFullCup #GiveThemTheirFlowers #NotVanilla #HealingInRealTime
Unfiltered with Roxy - Episode 16:
48-ish Life Lessons at 48 - Part 1
Happy Birthday to me… and hello wisdom!
📩 Read the full blog: roxanafeenster.substack.com
Welcome back to Unfiltered with Roxy 💛
I just turned 48 🥳 and whew—life has been a whole journey. I decided to celebrate the only way I know how: reflecting, storytelling, and hopefully dropping a few gems along the way.
✨ Episode Summary:
In this birthday episode, I’m sharing some of my 48-ish life lessons—things I’ve learned through blood, sweat, tears, joy, and glow-ups. These aren’t just quotes or tips… they’re real, lived truths that have shaped me. And the best part? I know some of them will land for you too 💫
🔑 What We’re Talking About:
Here are a few of the lessons I dive into in this episode:
If it doesn’t challenge you, it won’t change you
💪 That BodyPump mantra stuck with me for life. Growth happens after the hard part.
No is a complete sentence
🛑 No explanation needed. Protect your energy at all costs.
You are your own rescue team
🆘 Stop waiting for the perfect fix. It’s you, sis. It’s always been you.
Don’t procrastinate
📆 Pay the tolls. Have the convo. Send the email. Do the thing today.
You are your ancestors’ wildest dream
🌿 They planted seeds so you could bloom. And you are blooming.
Enjoy your food
🍽️ Especially when someone you love makes it with their whole heart. Eat the potato salad.
Dress like you love yourself
👗 That means investing in the clothes that make you feel amazing—gym or boardroom.
Rest is sacred
💤 You’re not lazy. You’re a whole human. And you deserve real rest.
Don’t disappear from your own story
📸 Take the picture. Be seen. You matter—and we need you in the frame.
💬 Roxy-isms to Sit With:
“You are a rose. Even when the weeds try to choke you out, you still bloom.” 🌹
“Rest isn’t for babies—it’s for anyone who wants to show up strong and sane.”
“Don’t let your old habits talk you out of your healing.”
📖 Want More?
This episode was inspired by my birthday reflection blog:
📝 Read the full 48-ish Life Lessons list
🎥 Come Walk With Me:
You can also catch me sharing more of these lessons (and a few hot takes from my daily walks) over on YouTube:
📺 YouTube.com/@UnfilteredWithRoxy
🗣️ I Want to Hear from YOU:
What’s a life lesson you’ve had to learn the hard way—or the soft way? DM me, email me, or better yet, join me on the pod 💌Whether you’re 28 or 78, I believe your voice matters.
🙏 Thank You:
To my first 19 YouTube followers—thank you for being here.
Thank you for letting me be me. I’m praying that something in this episode reminds you that you’re strong, worthy, and wildly loved.
Let’s keep showing up… unfiltered and unapologetic 💛
And remember:
If it doesn’t challenge you, it won’t change you.
—
With love and lessons,
Roxy
IG: @RoxyUnfiltered
Blog: roxanafeenster.substack.com
YouTube: youtube.com/@UnfilteredWithRoxy
Unfiltered with Roxy - Episode 15: You Don’t Have to Earn Rest
✨ In this episode of Unfiltered with Roxy, we’re diving into one of the biggest myths of modern life: the idea that rest has to be earned. We’re flipping that narrative on its head. Rest is not a reward—it’s a requirement for a healthy, whole, and joy-filled life.
Roxy gets real about hustle culture, the guilt we carry around taking breaks, and the silent burnout that creeps in when we ignore our need to rest. You'll leave this episode with practical tools to honor your body and your boundaries, and permission (yes, permission!) to rest—no excuses necessary.
🧠 What You’ll Learn
Self-care is the foundation of true productivity.
🔥 Mini Challenges (Your Weekly Homework)
✔ Reflect: When was the last time you rested without guilt? ✔ Schedule one intentional rest day this week—no justification needed.
✔ Write yourself a “Permission to Rest” note.
✔ Add one micro-rest (5 mins/hour) into your daily routine.
🎧 Episode Breakdown00:00 – Welcome & Energy Check-In
04:00 – The Hustle Culture Lie: Why Rest Feels Wrong
08:30 – The Science Behind Why Rest is Productive
13:00 – Redefining Success: Balance > Burnout
17:30 – How to Prioritize Rest in Real Life
20:00 – Closing Thoughts & Call to Action
💛 If this episode spoke to you, share it with a friend who needs the reminder.
📝 Read the full blog here: https://roxanafeenster.substack.com/p/you-do-not-need-permission-to-rest?r=4xs6r9
🎙 Subscribe to Unfiltered with Roxy for more weekly truths on self-care, self mastery, and mindful living.
Sending you love, light, and permission to REST on your journey to self discovery. You don’t have to earn it. Hope to connect again soon!
Unfiltered with Roxy- Episode 14: Setting Intentions with Your Money, Time & EnergyIn this episode of Unfiltered with Roxy, we are getting all the way real about how we manage what matters most — our time, our money, and our energy.
We’ve all heard “time is money” — but let’s be clear — money comes and goes. Time? You don’t get that back.
I’m sharing personal stories, lessons learned the hard way, and simple but powerful shifts to help you move differently when it comes to how you spend, earn, and protect your most valuable resources.
This episode is all about learning to move with intention, be wise with your resources, and build a life that doesn’t drain you — but fills you up.
📝 And yes — there’s a full blog post to go with this episode if you want to read, highlight, and sit with this a little deeper.
→ Read the blog here: https://roxanafeenster.substack.com/p/setting-intentions-with-your-money?r=4xs6r9
What You’ll Learn:
1. Time is Money... But Money is NOT Time→ Time is limited. Be a good steward of it.
2. Be Intentional with Your Spending→ Money is energy. Spend it with purpose.
3. The Cost of Chasing Money→ If the check is costing you your peace... it’s too expensive.
4. Plan for Career & Income Stability→ Don't just quit — plan, pivot, and protect your future.
Mini Challenges for You:
✔ Track your time for one day. Where is it really going?
✔ Review your spending this week. What would you change? ✔ Ask yourself: Can my current job really support the life I want?
✔ Review your subscriptions & auto-payments. What can go?
Episode Takeaways:
→ Time is a finite resource — be mindful of how you use it.
→ Money flows — but chasing it at any cost will cost you more than dollars.
→ Success isn’t just about income — it’s about alignment with peace.
→ Plan for the life you want — not just the job you have.
Chapters:
Time Topic
00:00 Welcome & Energy Check-in
01:14 The Value of Time vs. Money
3:05 Time Management & Energy Investment
6:08 Understanding Money as Energy
10:18 The Cost of Chasing Money
15:18 Defining True Success
18:12 Planning for Career Transitions
19:40 Long-Term Financial Planning + Final Encouragement
Remember!
Check out the Setting Intentions with Your Money, Time & Energy blog post for even more gems & reflections from this episode!
→ Read it here: https://roxanafeenster.substack.com/p/setting-intentions-with-your-money?r=4xs6r9
If this episode blessed you or made you think — share it with a friend, leave a review, and tag me @UnfilteredwithRoxy so I can love on you back!💛 Sending you love, light, and financial wisdom... always!
Unfiltered with Roxy- Episode 13: Stop Delaying Your Destiny: A Real Talk Reflection on Procrastination, Purpose, and Pressing Through
In this episode of Unfiltered with Roxy, Roxana dives deep into the power (and danger) of procrastination — and how it can quietly rob us of purpose, peace, and divine timing.
Through personal stories, life lessons, and real talk reflections, Roxana unpacks how delaying action — even in the smallest things — can create ripple effects across every part of our lives, from health and communication to missed opportunities and growth.
If you’ve been waiting for the "perfect time" — this is your sign that now is the time.
Takeaways from this Episode:→ Procrastination often shows up disguised as self-care or busyness.
→ Delaying action can create a domino effect of stress, missed moments, and frustration.
→ Timely action keeps you in alignment with divine order and purpose.
→ Small, daily health decisions build or break long-term wellness.
→ Communication delays can cause unnecessary drama or confusion.
→ Doing things now frees up mental clarity and emotional peace.
→ You already have what you need to get started — right now.
→ Recognizing divine timing helps you move with grace and fulfillment.
→ Your purpose doesn’t wait forever — neither should you.
→ You are loved. You are called. You were made to shine.
Chapters / Time Stamps:00:00 — Personal Check-In & Purpose Reflection
03:02 — Understanding Procrastination & Its Impact
06:07 — The Ripple Effect of Delay
08:53 — Lessons from Delayed Actions
12:04 — The Importance of Timely Action
14:58 — Health and Procrastination
17:57 — Communication and Delays
20:57 — Taking Action Now
23:55 — Final Encouragement & Call to Action
Blog & Resources:
Be sure to read the full blog that inspired this episode: 🔗 Stop Delaying Your Destiny: A Real Talk Reflection on Procrastination, Purpose & Pressing Through
* Subscribe, share, and leave a review if this helped you!
Remember — your destiny doesn’t wait… and neither should you.
Start now! Move with grace! Keep going!
🎧 Unfiltered with Roxy | Episode 12: Lessons from Body Pump – Strength, Mastery & The Hustle of Growth
Ever taken a Body Pump class? Or pushed yourself so hard toward a goal that you questioned if you’d ever "get it right"? Yeah, me too.
In this episode, I’m taking you behind the scenes of my time as a group fitness instructor—and the powerful life lessons I learned through sweat, music, and muscle. This isn’t just about fitness. It’s about the grit it takes to grow, the work it takes to master something, and the love it takes to keep going when it gets hard.
✨ We’re talking:
– Why practice makes permanent
– What real mastery looks like (spoiler: it’s messy!)
– The difference between calling someone out vs. coaching them up
– How these lessons show up far beyond the gym—in career, healing, and everyday life
💛 Whether you're on a wellness journey or just trying to level up in life, this episode is for YOU.
📖 Want the full story? Read the full blog here:
👉🏽 Lessons from Body Pump – Strength, Mastery & Growth (Substack)
🎙 Listen now and don’t forget to subscribe, like, and share with someone who needs this reminder today!
Unfiltered with Roxy - Episode 11: Mini Lessons on the Journey to Self-Discovery
🎙📅 Episode Overview:
Life is too short to be stuck in cycles of burnout, stress, and obligations that don’t serve us. In this episode of Unfiltered with Roxy, we’re diving into four powerful mini lessons that will help you reclaim your time, energy, and peace.
These lessons are simple, but trust me—they’re life-changing. From prioritizing yourself without guilt to making intentional choices with your money, time, and energy, I’m breaking down the mindset shifts that will help you live with more clarity and purpose.
✨ In this episode, we’ll talk about:
✔️ Prioritizing yourself like it’s your job—because YOU are your most important responsibility.
✔️ Being intentional with your money, time, and energy—where is it all going, and is it really serving you?
✔️ Letting go without guilt—you don’t need a dramatic reason to quit a job, relationship, or situation that no longer fits.
✔️ Understanding that stress is NOT a job requirement—your paycheck should never come at the cost of your peace.
🔥 Mini Challenges for You:
✔ Take one intentional break today—breathe, stretch, or go outside.
✔ Do a quick “Life Audit” to see where your time, energy, and money are going.
✔ Ask yourself if you’re holding onto something out of obligation rather than desire.
✔ Evaluate your job—does it support your well-being, or is it draining you?
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Self-Discovery
01:01 Prioritizing Yourself as a Job
03:26 Setting Intentions with Time, Energy, and Money
07:19 The Freedom to Quit
12:57 Stress is Not a Requirement
💛 Read the full blog post that inspired this episode:
🎧 Listen to more episodes of Unfiltered with Roxy where ever you listen to your favorite podcast.
📲 Let’s connect! Follow me on Instagram: @UnfilteredwithRoxy
If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend who needs to hear it! Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and tag me on social media with your takeaways using #RoxyUnfiltered and #MiniLifeLessons.
Sending you all love, light, and clarity on your journey! 💛✨
Unfiltered with Roxy- Episode 10: Words Have Power – Renewing Your Mind Through Affirmations
🎙 Episode Summary: Words have power! What we speak, think, and consume directly impacts our mindset and energy. In this episode, we’re talking about affirmations, mindset shifts, and the importance of intentional consumption. I’ll share personal experiences, including how affirmations helped me stay grounded in a high-stress situation, and why reprogramming your mind is key to feeling lighter, more positive, and at peace.
✨ What You’ll Learn:
How affirmations can help shift your mindset
Why your words and thoughts influence your energy
The power of intentional content consumption
A real-life lesson in mindset from a day in traffic court
Practical ways to incorporate affirmations into your daily routine
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Affirmations and Self-Discovery
02:53 The Power of Words and Affirmations
06:09 Building a Daily Affirmation Habit
08:55 Overcoming Negativity in a Negative World
12:13 Intentional Consumption for Positive Mindset
21:04 Conclusion and Encouragement for Self-Discovery
✨ Resources Mentioned: 📚 Battlefield of the Mind (30th Anniversary Edition): Winning the Battle in Your Mind 🎧 Career Coach Mandy – Mindset & Motivation 🎶 Soak Stream – 12 Hours of Bible Affirmations 🔮 Raise Your Vibrations – Positive Energy & Frequency 🌅 Start Your Day Right with Louise Hay’s Morning Meditation
✨ Let’s Connect: 📲 Instagram: @unfilteredwithroxy
🌍 Website: LifewithRox.com 📩 Email: roxanafeenster@gmail.com
🎧 Listen & Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube! Don’t forget to leave a review if this episode resonated with you! 💫✨
Unfiltered with Roxy Podcast: Episode 9 - Prison to Polo: A Journey of Luxury, Healing, and Mental Health Featuring Susan Smallwood
In this episode of Unfiltered with Roxy, host Roxana Feenster engages in a heartfelt conversation with mental health advocate Susan Smallwood. They discuss Susan's journey from prison to becoming a successful entrepreneur and advocate for mental health, emphasizing the importance of self-advocacy, community support, and breaking the stigma surrounding mental illness. The conversation highlights the significance of living authentically, the power of positive energy, and the need for culturally competent mental health resources. Listeners are encouraged to prioritize their mental wellbeing and seek healing through nature and community.
Takeaways:
Mindfulness meets practicality in mental health advocacy.
Community support is crucial for mental health recovery.
Self-advocacy empowers individuals to prioritize their wellbeing.
Breaking the stigma around mental illness is essential.
Living authentically reduces stress and promotes healing.
Energy and mindset play a significant role in personal growth.
Nature can be a powerful source of healing.
Culturally competent practitioners are vital for effective therapy.
It's important to let go of toxic relationships for mental health.
Prioritizing mental wellbeing is a lifelong journey.
Quotes:
"This is where mindfulness meets practicality."
"Susan is the vision of mental health now."
"I kept going, and by the grace of God, the event happened."
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Mindfulness and Mental Health Advocacy
02:57 Susan Smallwood's Journey: From Prison to Polo
05:52 The Importance of Community Support in Mental Health
08:48 Breaking the Stigma: Understanding Mental Health
11:48 Living Authentically: Embracing Your True Self
14:35 Prioritizing Mental Wellbeing: Daily Practices and Rituals
17:32 Encouraging Others: Supporting Loved Ones in Mental Health
20:26 Resources for Mental Health and Wellness
Connect with Susan:
Instagram:@grandiosityevents
Website: Grandiosity Events
Susan’s Feature Articles:
Resources Mentioned:
Every year, the 988 Lifeline and other mental health organizations and individuals across the U.S. raise awareness of suicide prevention during September, National Suicide Prevention Month. We can all help prevent suicide.
YouTube Video:
Podcast: Self Love is a requirement not an option by Lisa Marie
You Tube Video - TRY IT FOR 1 DAY! "I AM" Affirmations for Success, Confidence, Self Love & Happiness
Call to Action:
✨ If you know someone who could use a boost of encouragement while navigating their journey to authenticity or healing from trauma, please share this episode with them. Let’s spread the message of support and resilience together! 💖
Thank you for spending your precious time with me on Unfiltered with Roxy. Remember, you're not alone, and help is available.
Until next time, take care of yourselves and each other. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and leave a review!
Unfiltered with Roxy: Episode 8 - Breaking the Silence: Suicide Prevention and Awareness with Montrella Cowan
In this enlightening conversation, Roxana Feenster and Montrella Cowan delve into the unique mental health challenges faced by Black women, emphasizing the importance of inner harmony and self-care. They discuss the significance of suicide prevention awareness, particularly in light of alarming statistics regarding youth suicide. The conversation also highlights the cycle of trauma and the need for individuals to break free from harmful patterns. Montrella ishares her AAA formula—Acknowledge, Ask, Affirm—as a practical approach to mental wellness, encouraging listeners to seek help and affirm their worth.
Key Takeaways:
Mental health issues affect Black women differently due to systemic factors.
Therapy helps complete the past, while coaching helps create the future.
Inner harmony is essential for effective therapy and personal growth.
Suicide prevention awareness is crucial, especially among youth.
Depression is often a silent killer, affecting many who appear fine.
Breaking the cycle of trauma requires personal responsibility and healing.
Self-care is not selfish; it's necessary for overall well-being.
The AAA formula can guide individuals toward better mental health.
Therapists also experience human emotions and challenges.
Community support and open conversations are vital for mental health awareness.
Quotes:
"We have to be ready to do that."
"Stop passing on tragedy, start creating legacy."
"You are not illegitimate, you are God's child."
Connect with Montrella:
Instagram: @affinity411
Website: Affinity Health Affairs, LLC
Linked in Article: Depression: One of the Deadliest Threats to Humankind
Check out Montrella’s Book: The Purse: An Essential Guide to Healthy Relationships
Resources Mentioned:
Every year, the 988 Lifeline and other mental health organizations and individuals across the U.S. raise awareness of suicide prevention during September, National Suicide Prevention Month. We can all help prevent suicide.
Washington Post Article: What does ‘high-functioning depression’ mean? We asked experts.
Podcast: Self Love is a requirement not an option by Lisa Marie
Call to Action:
We encourage you to share this episode with anyone who struggles with depression or putting themselves first and needs a reset of their mental health. Remember, you're not alone, and help is available.
Thank you for spending your precious time with me on Unfiltered with Roxy. Remember, "You are not illegitimate, you are God's child."
Until next time, take care of yourselves and each other. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and leave a review!
#selfcare #mentalhealth #podcast #wellness #BlackGirlMagic #Healing mental health, Black women, suicide prevention, inner harmony, trauma, coaching, therapy, self-care, mental wellness, empowerment
