Learn how you can empower yourself to say no with confidence, stop people-pleasing, and set boundaries to cultivate healthy connections.

In this episode of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle, we’re talking about the art of saying no with confidence—why it’s so hard, how people-pleasing steals our joy, and how honoring your needs can lead to deeper, more authentic relationships.

With personal stories, vulnerable reflection, and practical advice, this episode will give you the courage to pause, speak your truth, and set boundaries that support your well-being.

What you’ll learn:

• Why saying no matters—and how it builds self-worth
• How people-pleasing leads to resentment and burnout
• Learning to prioritize your needs without guilt
• The fear of being excluded and how to move through it
• Saying yes out of obligation vs. alignment
• Tools to pause, reflect, and respond from your authentic self

💌 Struggling to say no and reclaim your confidence? Start your day with “Dear Friend” – Michelle’s new book filled with daily encouragement and clarity. Preorder now at thedearfriendbook.com.

If you’ve ever felt pressure to say yes when your heart is screaming no—this episode is for you.

Leave a comment with what resonated most. We’d love to hear your story.

Episode topics:

We’re so grateful you’re here with us. As a mother-daughter duo, we’re passionate about having honest conversations about the struggles we all face—and the healing that’s possible when we start from within.

This July, we’re diving deep into confidence, self-worth, self-advocacy, and purpose—beginning with the relationship we have with our bodies. In past episodes, we’ve unpacked how early experiences and cultural messages shape our self-image, why external validation never fills the void, and how to reclaim your worth one kind thought at a time.

We're challenging the beliefs that tell us we have to look a certain way to be enough. Because you are enough—just as you are.

And in this episode, we're expanding that conversation by exploring the art of saying no with confidence—honoring your needs, setting boundaries, and showing up fully as your authentic self.

Join us next Tuesday for another heartfelt and healing episode of Life Happens with Barb Michelle! 💕

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Listen to our podcast anywhere→ click here🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday🎧

Follow us @MichelleMaros and @Peaceful_Barb and share your experiences with us @LifeHappensthePodcast or at Michellemaros.com/podcast.

You can also find us on Substack at Love Notes by Michelle Maros and Peaceful Mind Peaceful Life.

How you feel about your body can shape your entire life—and in this episode, we’re diving deep into the truth about body image, self-worth, and the journey to self-acceptance.

In this deeply personal conversation on Life Happens with Barb and Michelle, we open up about how harmful messages around appearance take root, how they impact our confidence, and what it really takes to unlearn them. From childhood memories and cultural pressure to the struggle of believing compliments and chasing “enoughness,” we explore the path from self-criticism to compassion—one thought at a time.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why self-worth can’t come from outside validation
• How body image issues start early and get reinforced by society
• Why “you matter” is more than just a nice phrase
• Barb’s story of success, bulimia, and finding real healing
• The difference between body positivity, neutrality, and appreciation
• Tips to stop body-shaming yourself and start practicing self-kindness

This episode is filled with truth, tools, and a reminder that being human means you already matter—just as you are.

Episode Topics:

We’re so grateful you’re here with us. As a mother-daughter duo, we’re passionate about having honest conversations about the struggles we all face—and the healing that’s possible when we start from within.

This July, we’re diving deep into confidence, self-worth, self-advocacy, and purpose—beginning with the relationship we have with our bodies. In this episode, we’re unpacking how early experiences and cultural messages shape our self-image, why external validation never fills the void, and how to reclaim your worth one kind thought at a time.

We're challenging the beliefs that tell us we have to look a certain way to be enough. Because you are enough—just as you are. It's time to shift the story, appreciate your body, and start living like you truly matter.

Join us next Tuesday for another heartfelt and healing episode of Life Happens with Barb Michelle! 💕

Dear Friend: Struggling with your own self-confidence.

Start your day with clarity and courage. ✨ Dear Friend—Michelle’s new book—is your daily companion to reclaim confidence, set boundaries, and find peace within. 💌 Pre-order now at thedearfriendbook.com

Connect with us⬇️

🎙️ Hosted by:

• @Peaceful_Barb
• @MichelleMaros

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Discover how to transform trauma into growth and purpose with special guest Briony Douglas—a multi-talented artist and mental health advocate whose journey is both inspiring and deeply human. This week on Life Happens with Barb & Michelle, we’re exploring how creativity, self-worth, and healing intersect. ⬇️

Tune in and don’t miss a captivating episode with our special guest Briony Douglas joining us on a powerful discussion on turning our pain into beauty.

Briony, known for her captivating sculptures, installations, and photography, shares how art became a lifeline during her healing journey. Her work challenges perception, sparks meaningful conversations, and connects us back to ourselves.

In this raw and powerful episode, we talk about:

• ✨ Honoring Your Passions and Creativity
• Healing often begins with giving yourself permission to create. Let joy lead.
• ✨ Trusting Your Own Timeline
• Life isn’t linear—and your healing doesn’t have to be either.
• ✨ Choosing Happiness Over Survival Mode
• Breaking free from the victim mentality opens the door to growth and peace.
• ✨ Rising Above Criticism and Pain
• You are more than your trauma. You are worthy of a life you love.

Briony opens up about how she used creativity to process pain and reclaim her identity. Barb shares her own experiences of turning struggle into service, and Michelle reflects on staying rooted in purpose despite criticism and setbacks. Together, they remind us that healing is possible—and that joy is a choice we can keep making.

💗 Remember, You are not what happened to you. You are who you decide to become.

We’re so grateful you’re here with us! As a mother-daughter duo, we’re passionate about sharing the real-life lessons that have shaped us—so you can feel empowered to build confidence, prioritize self-care, and navigate life’s challenges with emotional strength and resilience.

This July, we’re diving deep into the themes of self-advocacy, trust, and purpose—starting with the relationship we have with ourselves. We're challenging harmful beliefs and societal pressures to reclaim our self-worth and embrace who we are from the inside out. Each episode this month is a powerful reminder to trust yourself, stand up for your needs, and honor the body you live in. It's time to love yourself fully—and live like you mean it.

Join us next Tuesday for another heartfelt and healing episode of Life Happens with Barb Michelle! 💕

Join our community⬇️

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Watch this episode on YouTube→ [CLICK HERE]

Discover why putting yourself first isn’t selfish—it’s essential. From divorce to everyday self-care, we’re encouraging you to prioritize your peace, reclaim your freedom, and confidently choose yourself over others’ comfort. ⬇️

✨ Pre-order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌

⟶ https://thedearfriendbook.com

You asked, we answered. In today’s episode, we’re diving into what it really means to prioritize your peace—even when it challenges others’ expectations. For generations, we’ve been told that self-care is selfish or even narcissistic, but we’re unpacking that outdated narrative and redefining what it means to truly care for yourself.

Barb shares how she reclaimed her freedom and individuality through divorce, and Michelle opens up about being undermined by people in her inner circle—and how she rose above it with confidence and clarity. Together, this mother-daughter duo explores the power of choosing yourself, embracing growth, and surrounding yourself with friends who lift you up rather than tear you down.

Here’s what we’re unpacking:

✨ You’re Not Selfish for Prioritizing Your Needs

You can’t pour from an empty cup. Self-care isn’t indulgence—it’s survival.

✨ Finding Freedom and Individuality After Divorce

Barb shares her journey of rediscovering herself post-divorce and what freedom truly looks like.

✨ Handling People Who Undermine You

Michelle opens up about how she overcame being criticized and dismissed—and how you can rise above it too.

Remember: When you care for yourself first, you show up for others in a deeper, more meaningful way. 💕

We’re so grateful you’re here with us. 💛 As a mother-daughter duo, we’re passionate about sharing the real-life lessons that have shaped us—so you can feel empowered to build confidence, embrace your individuality, and navigate life’s inevitable challenges with emotional strength and resilience.

This month on Life Happens, we’re diving deep into themes of self-advocacy, healing, and reclaiming your power. Each episode is rooted in mindfulness and designed to help you connect with your purpose, trust your inner voice, and prioritize your peace—especially during moments of grief, loss, and transition.

✨ Expect powerful practices, honest conversations, and heartfelt reminders to support your growth and self-care journey.

Join us next Tuesday for another healing, empowering episode of Life Happens with Barb & Michelle. 💕

Join our community⬇️

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Watch this episode on YouTube→ [CLICK HERE]

Emmy-winning actress Sarah Levy shares her powerful story of heartbreak, grief, and healing in the wake of unimaginable loss.

In this raw and deeply moving episode, Sarah shares the heartbreaking story of losing her home and community during the devastating LA fires—and the emotional aftermath that followed. With honesty, grace, and vulnerability, she talks about the grief no one prepares you for, the myths of toxic positivity, and the long, often messy process of rebuilding from the inside out.

At the beginning of this year, wildfires tore through Southern California, destroying over 40,000 acres and displacing countless families. Sarah, co-star of Schitt’s Creek, experienced this devastation firsthand while raising her 2-year-old son. She opens up about how she’s navigated the grief, shock, and slow process of healing in the months since.

In this conversation, we explore:

✨ You Don’t Have to Move On — Grief has no timeline. It’s okay to still be hurting.

✨ Feeling the Hard Feelings — Why giving yourself space to cry and process is essential.

✨ The Power of Patience — Healing and progress take time, especially in a world of instant everything.

✨ Finding Your Own Path — Reconnecting with your truth and values after life throws you off course.

This is a powerful reminder that healing isn’t linear—and even in the darkest moments, it’s possible to rediscover purpose, connection, and unexpected joy.

💗 Stay tuned until the end for heartfelt insights and inspiring takeaways from Sarah’s journey.

We’re so grateful you’re here with us! As a mother-daughter duo, we’re passionate about sharing the real-life lessons that have shaped us—so you can feel empowered to build confidence, prioritize self-care, and navigate life’s challenges with emotional strength and resilience.

This month, we’re diving deep into building confidence and advocating for yourself. Every episode this June is devoted to helping you connect with your purpose and trust your inner voice—with powerful practices, heartfelt reminders, and real talk to support you every step of the way.

Join us next Tuesday for another heartfelt and healing episode of Life Happens with Barb Michelle! 💕

Join our community⬇️

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✨ Pre-order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌

⟶ thedearfriendbook.com

Your Gut-Feelings Are Guardian Angels—Learn to Trust Them. In this episode we unlock the power of your intuition and build unshakable self-trust, so your gut-feelings become your inner compass, guiding you to a more confident and aligned life. ⬇️

✨ Pre-order Dear Friend to receive daily doses of clarity, hope, and heartfelt encouragement.💌

⟶ thedearfriendbook.com

Your intuition is one of the most powerful tools you possess—an internal compass that protects, guides, and speaks with a wisdom deeper than logic. In a world filled with noise, learning to hear and trust your inner voice is one of the greatest acts of self-love and a vital part of mental health and emotional well-being.

In today’s episode, Michelle and Barb open up about the deep connection between intuition, gut-feelings, and self-trust. They share how learning to listen to their inner voices helped them make aligned decisions in love, life, and healing. Together, they explore how building confidence in your inner knowing can transform your mental health and empower you to live with clarity and intention.

Barb offers practical wisdom on overcoming self-doubt and tuning into your intuition, while Michelle shares her honest experience with navigating uncertainty and how she began cultivating a trusting relationship with herself.

Your gut-feelings are not random—they are your soul speaking. The more we honor our intuition, the more confident we become in navigating life’s challenges with grace and truth.

Here's what we’re covering in this episode:

✨ Know the Difference Between Your Head and Heart Voice

Our minds often speak in judgment; your intuition comes from compassion. Learn to recognize the quieter, truer voice within.

✨ Start an Inner Dialogue

Cultivating self-trust starts with listening. Whether through journaling or speaking aloud, getting to know your inner voice is the first step toward clarity.

✨ Stay Rooted in Your Values

When you understand what truly matters to you, your intuition becomes stronger. Your values are the foundation of wise decision-making.

✨ Have Faith in Yourself

Believe that you already have the answers. Confidence grows each time you honor your inner voice and take action from a place of truth.

Remember: your gut-feelings and intuition are guardians, not guesses. The more you tune in, the clearer the path becomes.💕

We’re so grateful you’re here with us! As a mother-daughter duo, we’re passionate about sharing the real-life lessons that have shaped us—so you can feel empowered to build confidence, prioritize self-care, and navigate life’s challenges with emotional strength and resilience.

This month, we’re diving deep into building confidence and advocating for yourself. Every episode this June is devoted to helping you connect with your purpose and trust your inner voice—with powerful practices, heartfelt reminders, and real talk to support you every step of the way.

Join us next Tuesday for another heartfelt and healing episode of Life Happens with Barb Michelle! 💕

Join our community⬇️

YouTube: @LifeHappensThePodcast

Instagram: @LifeHappensThePodcast

Substack: https://lifehappensthepodcast.substack.com/

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Listen to our podcast anywhere→ https://kite.link/barb-knows-best 🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday🎧

Improve your mental health with Barb & Michelle through practical mindfulness, meditation, and real talks with experts Jeff Warren and Tasha Schumann. from the Mind-Bod Adventure Pod. Build ease, trust, and lasting calm—one breath at a time.

In this episode of Life Happens with Barb & Michelle, mindfulness experts Jeff Warren and Tasha Schumann join the conversation to explore how meditation can transform your mental and emotional wellbeing.

Meditation is often misunderstood, but at its core, it's the simple, consistent practice of returning to the present moment. This episode breaks down the myths, offering practical ways to integrate mindfulness into your daily life with trust, ease, and curiosity.

Barb shares how her decades-long journey with perfectionism was softened through meditation and self-compassion, while Michelle reflects on how her evolving practice continues to ground and empower her. Together with Jeff and Tasha, they dive into the power of presence, the importance of consistency, and the openness it takes to truly unravel your thoughts and emotions.

Whether you're new to meditation or returning with fresh intention, this episode will inspire and equip you to build a practice rooted in mental clarity, emotional resilience, and inner peace.

Here’s What We’re Exploring in This Episode:

✨ Meditation Is Meant to Be Lived, Not Just Learned

Meditation isn’t just about sitting in silence—it’s about bringing mindful awareness into every part of life. Whether you’re on the dance floor or in a doctor’s office, real growth happens when your practice flows into the everyday.

✨ There’s No One-Size-Fits-All Approach

Mental health and mindfulness look different for everyone—culturally, neurologically, and spiritually. The power lies in making meditation approachable, inclusive, and adaptable to your needs in each season of life.

✨ Trust and Safety Start Within

Inner safety is the foundation for meaningful growth. As you build self-trust through consistent practice, you become more grounded, open, and resilient—for yourself and your community.

✨ The ordinary moments are extraordinary—just calling your mind to the present and embracing the now is enough. 💕

Join our community⬇️

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Listen to our podcast anywhere→ kite.link/barb-knows-best 🎙️ New episodes of Life Happens with Barb and Michelle are released every Tuesday🎧