Message In The Middle
This podcast is a safe and supportive space for listeners to explore life's challenging lessons and gain inspiration for their personal development journey. Through a variety of engaging formats, including interviews, book clubs, master classes, and discussions, the podcast delves into topics related to perseverance, self-empowerment, and self-discovery. With a focus on sharing expertise, inspiring stories and insights from a diverse range of voices, the podcast aims to help listeners navigate difficult experiences, provide hope and inspiration, and develop the resilience and strength needed to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.
At its core, this podcast is a platform for personal growth and development. It provides a welcoming space for listeners to explore life's toughest lessons and learn from others who have overcome similar challenges. Through a variety of formats, including interviews with experts and everyday people, book clubs featuring thought-provoking works, and discussions focused on specific topics, listeners are exposed to a range of perspectives and ideas that can help them on their own personal journeys.
One of the key themes of this podcast is perseverance. Many of the stories shared on the show highlight the importance of pushing through difficult times and not giving up, even when the odds seem insurmountable. Whether it's overcoming eating disorders, grief, addiction, navigating a health crisis, or dealing with the aftermath of a traumatic experience, the podcast emphasizes the resilience and strength of the human spirit.
Another important theme of the podcast is self-empowerment. Listeners are encouraged to take control of their own lives and pursue their goals with confidence and determination. By sharing stories of individuals who have transformed their lives through hard work and self-discovery, the podcast inspires listeners to believe in their own potential and take steps to create the life they want and to recognize that we are all capable of rewiring our thoughts and behaviors.
Finally, the podcast is focused on self-discovery. Through discussions and interviews, listeners are encouraged to explore their own values, beliefs, and desires, and to gain a deeper understanding of themselves. By reflecting on their own experiences and learning from the stories of others, listeners can gain valuable insights that can help them navigate life's challenges and live more fulfilling lives.
Overall, this podcast is a powerful resource for anyone seeking inspiration, guidance, and support on their personal development journey. By exploring life's difficult lessons through inspiring stories, interviews, book clubs, and discussions, listeners can gain the tools they need to persevere through tough times, empower themselves to achieve their goals, and discover their true selves.
Message In The Middle
Creative Self- Care: Insights from Crystal McClain
In this episode of Message in the Middle, Marianne dives into the topic of creative self-care with Crystal McLain, a licensed massage therapist and host of the Creative Self Care podcast.
Crystal shares her unique approach to “creative self-care,” a practice that harnesses curiosity, critical thinking, and ingenuity to strengthen the mind-body connection. Together, they discuss practical tips, bust self-care myths, and uncover actionable strategies to help you thrive in 2025.
Whether you’re setting your intentions for the year, looking for innovative ways to practice self-care, or seeking a fresh perspective on personal growth, this episode is packed with insights to guide you on your journey.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
- The concept of “creative self-care” and how it differs from traditional self-care practices.
- Unique ideas for self-care using simple tools like a notebook, including gratitude trackers, song lyrics, recipes, and more.
- Why many people feel they “suck” at self-care and how to shift that mindset.
- An in-depth look at “functional freeze,” its causes, and practical steps to overcome it.
- The difference between practical optimism and toxic positivity, and how to embrace a realistic, uplifting mindset.
- Why self-awareness and energy audits play a huge role in self-care and general wellness.
Resources Mentioned:
- Crystal McLain’s website: https://crystalmclaincreative.com/
- The Creative Self-Care Blog/Podcast: https://crystalmclaincreative.com/blogs/blogcast
- “40 Ways to Use a Notebook” (Examples shared during the episode): https://crystalmclaincreative.com/blogs/blogcast/ways-to-use-a-notebook
About Crystal McLain: Crystal McLain is a licensed massage therapist specializing in trauma-informed care, as well as a stress management and healthy habits mentor. She is a passionate advocate for helping individuals heal from the past and thrive in the present. As a public speaker, blogger, and podcast host, Crystal blends therapeutic practices with creative self-care techniques to promote holistic wellness.
Connect with Marianne:
- Website: Message In The Middle with Marianne
- Message In the Middle Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/422430469323847/
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MessageInTheMiddle/playlists
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marianne-demello-smith-678b9966
- Email: Contact | Message In The Middle with Marianne
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