Reasons To Be Happy: Recent Episodes
Paula Marie
Hi! My name is Paula. Welcome to my podcast where I offer down-to-earth thoughts on how to cultivate a joyful life, despite the stress and negativity we all deal with. I’m a sister, daughter, friend, teacher, writer, listener, and lifelong learner. The mission of this podcast is to share my perspective on topics related to mindset, mental wellbeing, and personal growth. I strive to document my personal learning in a digestible, comforting, and relaxed approach. I'm an advocate of celebrating our joys and consistently practicing gratitude. My goal is to build a supportive community of people who seek peace, alignment, and growth. Please know that the content discussed on the podcast is general information and individual anecdotes related to mental health. I’m not a licensed mental health practitioner, and I recommend cognitive behavioral therapy for any listeners needing professional support. I really appreciate you listening to the "Reasons to be Happy” podcast, and I hope you find it uplifting and informative. Please find me on @reasonstobehappythepodcast if you’re interested in connecting! Xo Paula
My guest today is licensed therapist, Erica Zisman, who is also the creator behind @therapywitherica.
Erica and I sat down to talk about anxiety, with a focus on the uptick of anxiety specifically in children and young adults.
We discussed:
- defining anxiety and how it can manifest
- the recent increase in anxiety and possible reasons behind its rise
- how anxiety presents differently in children versus adults
- common mistakes that parents make with anxious children
- how parents can support their children and teens struggling with anxiety
- differences between internal and external perfectionism and what it means to be "high functioning"
- nervous system regulation, breathwork, and daily practices we can apply to reduce worrying
Erica kept it real and jargon-free, and I appreciated her practical and thoughtful approach to anxiety and emotional health.
If you are seeking more information and parenting support, reach out to Erica on IG: @therapywitherica
**SPECIAL PROMO: check out Erica's incredible, self-guided course: Anxious Kids 101
Erica is offering a 20% off promo code to Reasons to Be Happy listeners!
Code: HAPPY20
Find me on Instagram: @reasonstobehappythepodcast
This episode is for anyone who wants to attract more financial abundance into their lives.
I sat down with Kat Cozadd, a money and manifestation coach, who talks us through all the ways we attract or potentially repel money. (hint: it's usually never about the money itself)
Kat shares common limiting beliefs around money and ways to dig into our money mindset.
In our conversation, she provides manifestation tips and tricks that will add value to your life and your bank accounts.
Learn more about Kat by following her on socials:
IG: @katcozaddcoaching
TikTok: @katcozaddmanifests
Find me on Instagram: @reasonstobehappythepodcast
Welcome back to season two of the podcast!
It's been a while (5 months!) since my last episode, and I start this one by sharing why I needed a break from recording.
This episode is the perfect kickstart to the new season as I sit down with certified life coach, Kerry Rasenberger, to discuss the ins and outs of self-love.
On top of being full of wisdom, Kerry has a huge following on social media as she posts powerful, mic-drop posts every day.
Kerry drops a ton of knowledge on how to find happiness through self-love. She breaks down the differences between self-worth, self-love, self-esteem, and self-compassion.
She talks about cutting toxic people out of your life, setting healthy boundaries, quieting the inner critic, and talking to yourself like you talk to your best friend.
If you want to get better at asserting yourself to lead a more peaceful, fulfilling life, definitely tune in to this episode.
Follow Kerry on Instagram: @kerrylifecoach
Kerry's website:
https://www.kerryrasenberger.com/
Find me on Instagram: @reasonstobehappythepodcast
This episode was so much fun to record as I caught up with my former coworker, turned friend, Jaime Combatti. Jaime and I taught Kindergarten together for several years and the bond between co-teachers is like no other. In addition to being a Director of a preschool, Jaime is a mindset coach and hosts the Pineapple Table Podcast.
Jaime and I sat down to talk about burnout, with a special focus on teacher burnout since the two of us have experience being classroom teachers and know how fulfilling yet exhausting the profession can be. We chatted about ways to identify burnout within ourselves, strategies to prevent and manage it, and why burnout is a real issue with some concerning consequences.
Find Jaime on Instagram: @lotusmindset
Listen to the Pineapple Table Podcast on Apple and Spotify (@thepineappletable)
Xo Paula
Find me on Instagram: @reasonstobehappythepodcast
You might remember today's guest as the author of the viral 2022 Psychology Today article, “What’s Behind the Rise of Lonely, Single Men." Written by Dr. Greg Matos, the article received a lot of attention, especially from some angry men.
So, who is Dr. Greg? He is a board-certified couple and family psychologist based in California. Dr. Greg has an interesting background as he was trained as a military psychologist in the US Navy. In 2021, he founded A Better Love Project, an educational charity that shares relationship science and practical dating and relationship tips.
In our conversation, we got into a lot of juicy topics like why many women today are choosing to be single or if they are dating, how they’ve raised their standards, and are much more selective in who they date. We also talked about the increase in situationships, and why some guys are more interested in casual flings vs. long-term, committed relationships. What I found interesting was that some guys prefer casual hookups yet there's a loneliness epidemic, in which a lot of men struggle with feelings of isolation. It would seem to me that hookup culture doesn’t necessarily promote real connection or mitigate feelings of loneliness. Even though it's contradictory, it's what a lot of people are experiencing today.
This episode packs a lot of food for thought.
Enjoy!
Xo Paula
Links and Resources:
What's Behind the Rise of Lonely, Single Men:
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-state-our-unions/202208/whats-behind-the-rise-lonely-single-men
A Better Love Project Website:
https://www.abetterloveproject.org/
Follow Dr. Greg on TikTok and Instagram: @abetterloveproject
Find me on Instagram: @reasonstobehappythepodcast
This episode is packed to the brim with valuable info about gut health.
I chatted with registered dietician, Jillian Smith, who is also the lead dietician for Gut Personal and the Gut Fix, where she helps women restore optimal health through personalized coaching and lab testing.
As a functional dietitian specializing in gut health, Jillian empowers women to stop guessing and get to the root of their gut symptoms.
Jillian struggled with her own gut issues, so she has the ability to truly understand what her clients are going through and how to heal from stomach troubles for good.
Jillian dropped SO much knowledge on all things related to gut health, including why women struggle with tummy troubles more than men, how to resolve bloating, the link between gut health and the mind, certain foods to incorporate into your diet, and what supplements to have.
Side note: I started taking Gut Personal's Miracle Worker magnesium supplement, and I’ve been LOVING its benefits.
I recently learned how important magnesium is for our health because of its connection to digestion and mood, and how many of us are likely deficient in the mineral.
An extra perk with the Miracle Worker is the powder can be mixed into water and it has a yummy, subtle strawberry flavor so it'll get you drinking more water too!
I highly recommend trying out the Miracle Worker by clicking on the link below:
https://collabs.shop/nee4wn
Use my code HAPPY10 for a discount on your order.
Learn more about Gut Personal and Jillian by connecting with them on Instagram:
@gut.personal
@jilliansmith.rd
Xo Paula
Find me on Instagram: @reasonstobehappythepodcast
50th EPISODE!!
My conversation with Nora flew by as we got into so many different topics. Nora is a tarot reader and astrologer who is studying Vedic astrology in India. It was fascinating to learn about natal charts, how much weight to put on zodiac compatibility, and the differences between Western astrology and Vedic astrology.
We also got into other topics like dating pet peeves, marriage, and egg freezing, plus how life in India compares to the US (we definitely covered a lot of ground!).
Nora is authentic and down-to-earth, and I appreciated listening to her explain astrology in a digestible way.
Be sure to give Nora a follow (@norzyboo) for all the astrology, spirituality, and India content.
Enjoy!
Xo Paula
Find me on Instagram: @reasonstobehappythepodcast
In this episode, I sit down with Kaitlin, a clinical counselor and coach based in Canada, who works with clients all over the world. Kaitlin focuses on relational health: to self and to others. She supports people undergoing life transitions and guides them through blind spots and mindset blockages.
Kaitlin’s intention is to help her clients fall in love with their life and SELF again, strengthen their connections, uncover their truth, and encourage them to be their fully expressed, authentic selves.
We had a beautiful conversation about so many different things such as the beauty of breakups, how to regulate our nervous system, attracting people that are good for our nervous system, expressing needs, and how to recognize when our inner child or the more underdeveloped part of ourselves is hijacking our perspective. We discussed self-trust and how she’s seeing a lot more people have awakenings since the pandemic, and what that can lead to.
It’s a value-packed episode, and I know it left a lot for me to think about and I imagine it will for you, too.
Enjoy!
Xo Paula
Find me on Instagram: @reasonstobehappythepodcast
I thoroughly enjoyed my conversation with Katie, and I guarantee you will, too. Katie Bryne is a UK-based coach who works with women over the age of 35 to attract healthy, lasting love into their lives.
Katie opened up about her self-growth journey and meeting her husband at the age of 39. At the age of 44 now, Katie and her husband have built a beautiful family with 3 children. It was so refreshing to hear her story. Katie spoke about the self-love and inner joy she cultivated along the way, and how important mindset is when dating.
Katie talked about her pregnancies and motherhood in her early 40s. Her realness and positivity radiated through our chat. It was wonderful learning more about the work she does to coach women 35+ and how she helps them develop productive approaches to dating.
Be sure to follow Katie on IG (@katiebyrne_) and TikTok (@katie_byrne_coaching) to learn more about her and her work.
Enjoy!
Xo Paula
Find me on Instagram: @reasonstobehappythepodcast
Today I talk about my personal development hangover. As much as I strive towards growth, I've become bored with the self-improvement content. I'm feeling indifferent toward the never-ending messages on striving toward self-growth. Instead, I want to focus on being accepting and grateful for the person I am today.
In this solo, I offer a few tips I've tried to adopt to take a step back from the self-improvement world. To be fair, I know I'll probably get back into it soon enough, but for now, I want to just be.
Enjoy!
Xo Paula
Find me on Instagram: @reasonstobehappythepodcast
In this solo episode, I share 3 ways to raise your vibration. I talk about what a ~vibe~ is and why having a high vibration is beneficial. These 3 strategies have made a beneficial impact on my mood, energy, and outlook, and they can be implemented immediately.
If you have other tips for maintaining a high frequency, let me know by sending me a DM. I'd love to hear what works for you!
Xo Paula
Find me on Instagram: @reasonstobehappythepodcast
I am joined by a return guest, and now friend, Yusur (@yogawithyusur), a certified yoga instructor based in Dubai and London. Yusur has a beautiful outlook on life and brings a genuine and gentle energy to those around her.
Today’s topic was centered around the concept of busyness: what it means and how it’s subjective and individualized person-to-person.
We discussed how busy lifestyles affect us differently, either bringing out the best or worst in us, and how essential self-care is to our busy lifestyles. Lastly, Yusur shared some tips about how people around the world slow down and incorporate mindfulness and peace into their daily lives.
As always with Yusur, our conversation flowed, and we touched on a bunch of other areas as well.
I hope you enjoy listening to this episode as much as I enjoyed chatting with Yusur.
Xo Paula
References:"6 Things People Do Around the World to Slow Down"
Find me on Instagram: @reasonstobehappythepodcast
Today I'm talking about being a girl’s girl. I discuss what it means to be a girl's girl and the benefits of being one. I also share 3 ways to be a confident woman who supports other women.
Also, if you’re a man listening, this might not be something you’re all that interested in. However, I do think there's relevancy to be found, like when I chat about avoiding the comparison trap and the value of same-gender friendships.
Enjoy!
Xo Paula
Find me on Instagram: @reasonstobehappythepodcast
This episode was inspired by a recent conversation between my sister and me where we were discussing the difference between being vulnerable and oversharing. In today's episode, I break down the differences between the two, and how to decide when to openly share with people.
The takeaway is that not everyone needs to know everything about us. In some cases, it's best to be careful with getting vulnerable because of the company we're in. Not everyone in our life is going to be receptive to our vulnerability. It's entirely possible to be an authentic person while still maintaining a sense of privacy.
If you relate to this topic, please feel free to message me on Instagram. I'd love to hear your thoughts!
Have a lovely week!
Xo Paula
Find me on Instagram: @reasonstobehappythepodcast
Welcome back! I recorded a solo on the 20 dating truths I've learned over the years. These are truths I wish I'd known earlier so hopefully, they help others who are in the dating trenches.
If you have any more dating tidbits and lessons, please let me know by messaging me on Instagram (@reasonstobehappythepodacst).
If you enjoyed this type of content, please add a positive review to Apple Podcasts or a rating on Spotify. This feedback helps me know what you'd like to hear more of.
Thanks for tuning in this week, and I hope you keep finding your reasons to be happy.
Xo Paula
Find me on Instagram: @reasonstobehappythepodcast
I am joined today by content creator, mindset coach, and law of attraction advocate, Lesh Zareba. Lesh and I sat down to talk about self-worth, finding purpose, and dating from the male perspective. He shared his wisdom about breaking through negativity, the hard periods of time he dealt with, and the lessons learned. I enjoyed the topics he spoke about, especially coming from a man’s point of view. It showed me that regardless of gender, a lot of us are going through similar challenges and experiences and that much of our suffering can be remedied by knowing ourselves, following whatever brings us joy and setting boundaries. One takeaway I appreciated was Lesh's reminder of the importance of being accountable to ourselves. In our conversation, Lesh explained how people expect a lot from those they date, but do we cultivate those same qualities in ourselves first? We also discussed a recent trend on TikTok about finding and dating "high value" people and what that means to Lesh, compared to what content creators promote. Our conversation left me with some points to reflect on.
Be sure to check out Lesh's feel-good content on Instagram and TikTok: @leshzareba
Thanks for listening and have a fantastic week!
Xo Paula
Find me on Instagram: @reasonstobehappythepodcast
Vulnerable episode alert
I want to chat about a topic I've been thinking about recently, and that is the current disconnect between women and men. We can find it in social media, pop culture, major news networks, and even our political and economic infrastructure.
From what I can see, women and men seem to be having more difficulty understanding each other's perspectives.
(Of course, this doesn't apply to everyone, I'm speaking generally)
I feel both genders could benefit from more empathy, listening, and getting curious about each other's points of view right now. :)
Listen and let me know if this resonates. Feel free to DM me at @reasonstobehappythepodcast. I'd love to hear other people's thoughts on this subject.
Have a great week!
Xo Paula
Find me on Instagram: @reasonstobehappythepodcast
My guest, Aisling Grantham, is such a gem. As a certified meditation teacher with the most calming energy, she was able to de-mystify mindfulness and explain this concept in a digestible way.
After chatting with Aisling, I felt more relaxed, clear-headed, and knowledgeable about how to integrate mindful moments into my day-to-day.
Our conversation touched on many topics including the beginner's guide to meditating, the 4 types of responses people have to stress and fear, and the effects of including mindful moments into your workday.
Aisling's specialty is practicing mindfulness at our jobs. She explained many of the benefits of incorporating mindfulness at work, including improving performance, relationships with colleagues, and overall mood. Aisling also helped me realize that mindfulness doesn't have to be a lengthy or glamorous activity. Overall, it was such an enlightening chat, and I am excited for others to learn more about this topic in a down-to-earth and understandable way.
If you enjoy this episode or any others, please do me a favor and write a positive review. It’s a small request with a huge impact and I’d really appreciate it!
Also, be sure to let me know what you took from the episode and how your mindfulness and meditation practice is going. I’d love to connect over this subject so DM me on Instagram (@reasonstobehappythepodcast).
Lastly, learn more about Aisling (@mellow_mindfulness on IG) and visit her website: www.mellowmindfulness.co.uk/
Have a peaceful week!
Xo Paula
Find me on Instagram: @reasonstobehappythepodcast
My guest, Leeza, and I are talking about manifesting, vision boards, and calling in healthy love in the new year. Leeza is the host and founder of the Rant & Release circles in our city of Boston, which is an opportunity for women to gather, talk, and bond. In the post-COVID world where a lot of people are working from home and feeling isolated, these circles couldn’t come at a better time; as we know, connections are a huge part of living satisfying, happy lives.
In our conversation, Leeza and I chat about her personal take on manifesting, how to make a vision board, and Leeza's podcast, Leeza Rants. Leeza recommended an IG account (@tobemagnetic) that focuses on neural manifestation, which I thought was intriguing.
Another topic that comes up is the dating scene in Boston. Instead of commiserating with me (hehe), Leeza shares an optimistic outlook on attracting love and developing a healthy partnership, which I truly needed to hear.
Be sure to follow Leeza on Instagram (@leezarants).
Enjoy!
Xo Paula
Find me on Instagram: @reasonstobehappythepodcast
Have you ever wondered what angel numbers mean? Then this episode is for you.
My guest, Novalee Wilder, is a professional numerologist and published author. Novalee has studied numerology for years after developing a deep interest in it. She has a wealth of knowledge about all things related to numerology, including its history, meaning, and how to use numbers to guide us. She also teaches numerology at the Numerology School, which she founded, and she offers 1:1 sessions and trainings. Essentially, she’s a guru in numerology, and I was thrilled to have her come on and teach us more about it.
It’s a fascinating topic and be sure to listen until the end because Novalee shares what the numbers are telling us to expect in 2023.
Happy New Year!
Xo Paula
Find me on Instagram: @reasonstobehappythepodcast
This episode marks the final episode of 2022! The Reasons to be Happy podcast is one year old this week, and I am so thankful for this community.
Today's guest is Bri, an energy alchemist and founder of Golden Bee Coaching. Our conversation was so real and insightful, and I loved Bri's perspective on the topics we discussed. We chatted about matching energies, sensing dense vs. light energies in other people, and how to shield yourself from energies you don’t want to absorb. Bri also touched on one of her clients' biggest obstacles: developing self-trust. She shared useful tips for listening to your intuition and approaching life with curiosity instead of judgment.
Learn more about Bri by checking out her Insta: @goldenbee.by.bri
If you enjoy this episode, I'd really appreciate a positive review on Apple Podcasts, or a 5-star rating on Spotify. It's a super quick way to support the podcast, and it would mean a lot!
Thank you for listening and wishing everyone all good things in 2023!
Xo Paula
Find me on Instagram: @reasonstobehappythepodcast
This episode is an especially juicy one. My guest, Ward Lassoe, is a licensed therapist and life coach based in Charleston, South Carolina. Ward is a particularly interesting guest as all of his clients are men, ranging from adolescents up through adulthood. The topics in today’s episode touch on challenges many men deal with today including loneliness, relationship troubles, obstacles in cultivating friendships with other men, communicating with vulnerability, having the DTR talk, stigmas of men going to therapy, addictions, anxiety, and depression. Ward talks about the different approaches and methods he uses in his practice, and he describes himself as more of a fixer than a talker. This style seems to work well with guys, since generally speaking, a lot of men prefer to solve problems instead of discussing them. Another element that he incorporates into his counseling is positive psychology, which I am a big believer in as well.
To learn more about Ward and reference some of the resources he mentions in the episode, check out his website: www.wardlassoecounseling.com
I believe this episode offers a lot of valuable insight into the mental health of the modern man. Please share if you think it could benefit a friend.
Thank you and have a great week!
Xo Paula
Find me on Instagram: @reasonstobehappythepodcast
Welcome back to another episode!
This one features the concept of self-love and developing self-worth. In today's world, many of us struggle to unconditionally love ourselves. We might dwell on our past failures, regrets, and shortcomings, while ignoring our successes and positive attributes. Due to external forces, such as the opinions of others and pressure from the media, a lot of us feel we don't measure up to an ideal. This can result in negative self-talk, judgements on others, and unconstructive thought patterns.
In this episode, I share my take on self-love. I consider self-love to be a natural, inherent part of being human. We are enough, simply by being here. It doesn't need to be 'figured out' because it's intrinsic. Instead of doubting our worth, that energy could be better spent on questioning and rejecting external forces that have over time weakened our self-worth. By removing limiting beliefs, we can start replacing them with kind and loving ones.
With self-love, we can accept and appreciate ourselves for exactly who we are. When we are gentler with ourselves, we can extend that kindness and compassion towards others. Self-love creates a more tolerant and empathetic world.
If this content resonates, message me on IG (@reasonstobehappythepodcast).
Thank you for listening and have a joyful week!
Xo Paula
This episode was so fun to record! My guest, Yusur Dalloul, and I became fast friends as we connected over yoga, solo travel, the different forms of meditation, and the importance of customizing self-care practices.
Yusur is a certified yoga instructor who is originally from Dubai and now based in London. Be sure to check out Yusur's beautiful Instagram page (@yogawithyusur) for more yoga inspo.
Thanks for listening!
Xo Paula
This episode centers around the elusive idea of the "dream ______." Whether it's the "dream job," the "dream partner," or the "dream house," many of us have our hearts set on achieving particular milestones and successes.
The illusion of the dreamy life we envision can result in high expectations for our real lives. Sometimes this results in feelings of disappointment, impatience, and sadness.
This episode explores approaching our reality with a more empowered, practical outlook. Instead of fantasizing about dream scenarios of life, perhaps we pay increased attention to the good things getting overlooked. Rather than pursuing the mythical dream life, maybe we learn to accept what is, and nurture the good that already exists.
Of course, every individual's path is unique. We need to use our own judgment to determine what areas of our lives are 'good enough' and what might require real, fundamental change.
The overall message is to consider whether your dream life is setting you up for an expectation hangover. Or on the flip side, is it guiding you to make choices that are more in alignment and satisfying? Everyone's answer will be different, but hopefully this question gets you thinking.
Thank you, as always, for tuning in. Have a pleasant week!
Xo Paula
@reasonstobehappythepodcast
I am joined today by Erykah Kimora, host of the Take 30 Podcast. Erykah's podcast focuses on topics surrounding mental health, self-love, and anxiety management.
In this collab episode, Erykah and I talk about how we manage overthinking and our favorite ways to self-soothe. We also discuss my new, favorite mantra: "This or something better."
Be sure to check out the Take 30 Podcast on Spotify.
Have a lovely week!
Xo Paula
@reasonstobehappythepodcast
~Back with a second installment of dating updates and reflections~
I am learning that relationships are mirrors. By relating to others, we learn a lot about the complex facets of who we are. In many ways, relationships can magnify whatever it is we're personally going through.
Meeting new people and navigating dating can sometimes feel confusing and stressful; but maybe that's because dating requires us to grow. Relating to other people, particularly while dating, offers opportunities to learn who we are and figure out the type of person who will mirror our best selves.
I am keeping all this in mind as I continue to date, learn, and grow.
I hope you have a joyful week!
Xo Paula
@reasonstobehappythepodcast
First solo ep in MONTHS!
This episode centers around a recent situation that reinforced some learnings about dating. I share how a new connection with a guy threw me off my game a bit and affected my mental health. Even though it was short lived, the situation gave me a reason to pause and reflect.
I discuss my takeaways and how I'm using this experience to refocus and get clear on the type of relationship I want.
If any of this resonates, please feel free to DM me on IG: @reasonstobehappythepodcast
Thanks so much for tuning in, and have a pleasant week!
Xo Paula
If you've ever wondered what life coaches do, this episode is for you. My guest, Evie Penfold-Smith, is a UK-based mindset and confidence coach who opens up about her personal journey and shares how coaches transform their clients' lives. She discusses how her work helps women to develop empowered mindsets, cultivate self-worth, and fulfill their true potential.
Evie was such a gem to chat with. She answered some listener questions including how she attracts clients, how to feel confident about rates as a small business owner, and the significance of owning our value.
This episode will leave you feeling empowered, inspired, and perhaps interested in whether personal coaching is for you or someone you know.
Feel free to reach out to Evie about working with her! She is on Instagram (@eviecoaching), or contact her via email at epenfoldsmith@gmail.com.
Thanks for listening and have a terrific week!
Xo Paula
@reasonstobehappythepodcast
Today's episode is an extra special one as I am joined by a long-time family friend and certified music therapist, Laura Florio.
Based in New York City, Laura helps children and adults discover a deeper sense of self and freedom in who they are using the modality of music. Using therapeutic techniques based on music, Laura supports relationships by bridging communication gaps and strengthening connections. This unique type of therapy can bridge communication gaps, support inner emotions, and strengthen interactions with others.
Laura recently launched her own private practice, Life Lyrics Music Therapy. Laura is pleased to now offer virtual sessions as well as home visits for clients in the tri-state area.
In this episode, Laura discusses the key components of music therapy and how music plays a critical role in supporting our mental health. Music injects so much joy to our day-to-day lives, and has some pretty incredible effects on our brains. Tune in to hear more about the power of music.
Visit the Life Lyrics Music Therapy website for more information:
http://www.lifelyricsmusictherapy.com
Laura can be reached via email at:
laura@lifelyricsmusictherapy.com
Life Lyrics Music Therapy also has a brand new Instagram account:
@lifelyricsmusictherapy
If you enjoyed this episode or think someone else might be interested in this topic, please pass it along. I would really appreciate your support of the podcast.
Thanks for listening, and have a harmonious week!
Xo Paula
IG: @reasonstobehappythepodcast
Today's episode is a special one as I am joined by a fellow teacher, Aoife Brennan. Not only is Aoife a primary school teacher, she also has fab style and a talent for creating beautiful content.
In our chat, we discussed all sorts of things including morning routines (why do guys not care about breakfast btw?), ways to stay motivated, the pros of teaching during a global pandemic, and how mindset shifts are actual magic.
Aoife is based in Cork, Ireland and has two gorgeous Instagram accounts that are both inspiring and aesthetic.
Be sure to follow Aoife at:
@aoifebbrennan (for fashion inspo and lifestyle content)
@muinteoir_aoife (for teaching-related ideas)
Thank you for being here, and have a terrific week!
Xo Paula
@reasonstobehappythepodcast
Welcome back to another episode!
Today I'm talking about releasing my grip and letting more flow into my life. This topic was inspired by recent musings over how the right things in life seem to pass when they don't feel forced and effortful.
Don't get me wrong - I believe hard work is necessary to make goals happen. However, I'm referring to the frantic attempts to try to control outcomes and manipulate events.
It seems to me that when I can trust what is unfolding is in perfect order, I feel much more calm and joyful. When I allow for more flow, things serendipitously seem to fall into place in the way they're meant to.
I encourage you to listen to this episode if you feel like you've been trying to control or force life to unfold solely within your comfort zone.
I think a big part of letting go is detaching from the constructs we've been taught about how life 'should' be.
Life is not a performance nor is it a race. Life is an experience. By loosening our grip, we can engage with our selves and our lives in more fluid and harmonious ways.
Xo Paula
PS Be sure to follow me on Instagram for the visual side of the pod (@reasonstobehappythepodcast).
Welcome back to another episode! Thank you for listening.
Today I am chatting about a topic inspired by a current TikTok trend discussing scams we don't realize are scams anymore due to how normalized they've become.
Tune in to listen to three normalized scams (I have more but didn't want to get too carried away).
I also chat openly about some of the challenging (and maddening) current events happening in the U.S. right now. I share how I (try to) cope with the chaos while also striving to maintain peace.
If you enjoyed the episode, or any of this content resonates with you, please rate and review on Apple/Spotify. Follow me on Instagram @reasonstobehappythepodcast where I show the visual side of the pod through reels, posts, and stories.
Have a good and peaceful week!
Xo Paula
Welcome back to a very special episode. Today I am joined by my younger sister, Mairead, and apologies in advance for a couple of random laughing outbursts. In this episode, we chat about sisterhood, big families, female friendships, vulnerability, and what to do when you're feeling small. We play a game of "Would You Rather" where Mairead has to make some tough decisions (lol not really). We end with an inspiring story from Mairead's new boss, and a practical tip for what to do when you're feeling low or insecure.
If you enjoyed this episode, please rate and review on Apple or Spotify.
Follow Mairead on IG at @raidss2194 and on TikTok @maireadbrock.
Thank you for tuning in and have a great week!
Xo Paula
Welcome back! Thanks for joining this week.
Today I am talking about the natural, inexplicable, and magical unfolding of life. This episode is a bit of a ramble, but the lessons I've learned are woven in, too. I hope this episode helps if you're in a phase where you're wishing for something different, or if you're confused as to how your life's journey is unfolding. Sometimes we can feel stuck, I get it.
However, by accepting how unexplainable life can be, and how there aren't benchmarks to meet in order to be "on track," life can start feeling more peaceful. Our minds can begin to feel more settled.
If you relate to any of my ramblings, please feel free to message me on Instagram (@reasonstobehappythepodcast). It'd be great to hear your thoughts.
Have a wonderful week!
Xo Paula
References:
- The Defining Decade by Meg Jay
- Katie Holloway Creative: @katiehollowaycreative on IG
[Check out Katie, a web designer for eco-conscious and creative entrepreneurs]
Welcome back to another episode! I appreciate you being here.
I am sure, at one point or another, you've questioned what your purpose is. Maybe you've asked yourself those existential questions of, "What am I supposed to be doing? Why am I even here?" (Pretty sure we've all been there before!)
This episode focuses on what it means to find purpose in our lives.
The three essential questions I chat about are:
1. Why is finding your purpose important?
2. What does knowing your purpose look like? What does that mean exactly?
3. What are some ways that you can dig into what your purpose truly is?
This episode is intended to simply prompt inner reflection around purpose and finding meaning in life. To really discover one's true purpose requires introspection, conversations with loved ones, and perhaps even working with a mentor or therapist. I hope that whatever you do in this life brings you fulfillment, connection, and happiness.
Have a wonderful week!
Xo Paula
Thank you for joining me again this week! This episode is a spicy but genuine one.
Today I chat about the 3 biggest dating challenges I've experienced. And while dating is hard, it's not cause for despair. In addition to the fun that dating can provide, it can also be a chance to learn, heal, and grow.
If any of the content of this episode resonates, please let me know via Instagram (@reasonstobehappythepodcast). I'd love to hear if you found this content relatable.
Also, if you found this episode insightful, please rate and review on Apple or Spotify. It would mean so much to me.
Have a terrific week!
Xo Paula
Welcome back to another episode!
Today I am chatting about energy: how we produce it, expend it, and preserve it.
We all have a reservoir of energy, and it is very fluid; different people, activities, or environments can energize us or deplete it. This got me thinking about how our energy relates to embodying a happy, intentional life.
By knowing where we land on the extroversion to introversion spectrum, we can better understand our social needs plus how we gain and utilize our energy reserves.
Thank you for listening and be sure to follow me on Instagram (@reasonstobehappythepodcast) for a visual complement to the podcast.
Have a terrific week!
Xo Paula
Welcome back! In this episode, I am joined by Erin Marie, host of the awesome podcast, 'Leading Like Her.' The 'Leading Like Her' podcast is geared towards helping young female leaders break through barriers and be their authentic selves along the way. Definitely be sure to give her a listen!
In this collab episode, we chat about gut feelings, introverts in leadership roles, and how to deal with negativity and toxicity in the workplace, amongst other things. Listen to hear a candid and fun conversation between two introverted podcasters who love real talks and shower wine (#iykyk).
Be sure to follow Erin on IG: @leadinglikeerin and follow her podcast: @leadinglikeher
Also check out her website: www.leadinglikeher.com
Have a terrific week!
Xo Paula
BONUS EPISODE ALERT!
It's story time today.
Tune in to hear a dating story along with some valuable lessons learned through the dates.
Follow me on Instagram (@reasonstobehappythepodcast) where I document my journey, and DM me with your dating stories and biggest life lessons learned throughout dating and relationships. Let's collectively support one another through the ups and downs of dating and developing real connections.
Thank you for being here!
Xo Paula
Hey! Welcome back to another episode of Reasons To Be Happy.
Today I am chatting about being less judgy. In a recent dating situation, I judged too quickly, and it completely backfired on me.
Negatively judging people is not helpful when developing healthy and compassionate relationships with ourselves and others. Leading a judgment-free life requires a deep level of understanding, self-awareness, and empathy.
I share a few practical strategies I am using to curb my judging, increase my understanding, and why it matters.
Feel free to follow me on Instagram (@reasonstobehappythepodcast), and as always, thank you for being here!
Xo Paula
Hey! Welcome back to another episode of "Reasons to be Happy."
Today I am talking about handling friends or colleagues that lean negative.
We've all had experiences with that coworker or friend who is a constant complainer, or the killjoy in the group.
And if you're really committed to living a joyful life, the negative people in your world can be even more blatant to you.
Dealing with negative people for extended periods of time can leave one feeling drained and frankly, it can rub off on us. So, what is one to do?
In this episode, I share my go-to tricks and tips for navigating negative interactions with grace. It can be a bit awkward, especially if you're like me and avoid confrontation like the plague. However, it IS possible to set those boundaries and protect your energy.
Whether it's in your personal or professional life, listen to this episode to find out how to preserve your mental wellness.
Stay happy and be classy,
Paula
PS If you're interested in enjoying a visual complement to this podcast, follow me on Instagram (@reasonstobehappythepodcast). I've been busy creating reels with the sole purpose of inspiring joy and ~good vibes~.
Hello! Welcome back to another episode of "Reasons to be Happy." Thanks for being here!
Today's episode has a pep talk feel. I chat about something that was inspired by an Instagram post of mine (@reasonstobehappythepodcast) from earlier in the week. The post was on a message I had been receiving in many different ways, so I felt compelled to devote an episode to it.
The Instagram post stated, "What you are looking for, you will find."
I break down what I think this means, plus offer 3 tips to help you search for the goodness and create a life that makes you feel good. I hope today's episode empowers us to develop a bias towards the positive rather than the negative. Essentially, by looking for the good, we discover how glorious life can be.
Lastly, I have a small favor to ask. If you are enjoying this podcast, I would really appreciate a positive review on the pod! It's a bit out of my comfort zone to ask for the review, however, I am discovering how important it is to ask for what we want in life. If you feel so inclined, I would be very thankful for that 5-star written review.
Hope your week is a great one!
Xo Paula
Hey! Welcome back to another episode of "Reasons to be Happy." I really appreciate you listening.
This week, we are talking about the benefits of travel on mental health.
The essential questions include:
1) How does travel promote your mental health?
2) If traveling abroad isn't feasible for you right now, what other ways allow you to reap the benefits of travel? In essence, how can you seek out more opportunities to explore?
I hope this episode inspires you to find ways to incorporate more travel and exploration into your life.
Personally, travel enriches my life in ways unlike any other. I cannot wait to plan a trip again soon. Taking recommendations for where I should go to next. :)
Have a lovely week!
Xo Paula
Hi! Welcome back to this week's episode of "Reasons to be Happy." I appreciate you listening!
This episode has a slightly different vibe as I simply wanted to share some opinions that were inspired by a few interactions I had on my vacation.
In today's episode, I am focusing on themes of toxic masculinity, unwanted male attention, and common thoughts and fears that many women experience when put into uncomfortable situations with men.
Please feel free to DM me if any of this resonates, or if you have had similar or different experiences. I am curious to know if this relates and I would love to keep this conversation going.
Find me on Instagram @reasonstobehappythepodcast :)
Xo Paula
Hello! Thank you for tuning in this week.
Today's episode is about the narratives we tell ourselves.
We all have inner dialogues about our life experiences and circumstances, and these stories can have a lot of power and control over our mindsets.
Listen to this episode to learn 3 tips (plus a bonus tip) that have helped me edit my negative narratives. These strategies have helped me let go of regret and shame and allowed me to view my journey in more optimistic ways.
I hope this helps you become a joyful author of your life story.
If our life is a plot, why not make it a happy one?!
Xo Paula
Happy March! Thank you for tuning in this week. This episode marks the 10th installment of the podcast! :)
Today I am talking about finding the "awe" in our day-to-day lives.
When I think of the word awe, I typically think of a transformative, powerful emotion that might come from visiting the Grand Canyon or attending an epic concert.
However, awe can be found everyday if we choose to notice it.
The essential questions of today's episode include:
1. What is awe?
2. What are simple yet effective ways to spot awe in our everyday lives?
3. What are the benefits of awe on our mental health?
I hope you find value in this episode, and it encourages you to spot the awe all around you.
Have an AWEsome week!
Xo Paula
Hello! Thank you for being here :)
On today's episode, I talk about a question I was asked recently by my new primary care physician. After the standard questions like, "Do you exercise?" and "Do you smoke?", she asked me, "Are you happy?"
To be honest, the question caught me off guard. It did, however, lead to some healthy introspection.
In this episode, I share several lessons I've learned on my "happiness journey."
Maybe my learning will inspire you to think about your own joy and wellbeing. And this way, you'll be better prepared to answer the happiness question than I was!
Have a good week and as always, thank you for listening!
Xo Paula
Hello! Welcome back to "Reasons to be Happy." I really appreciate you listening and supporting the podcast.
Today's episode centers around productivity, or specifically, how to be more comfortable with being anti-productive.
The essential questions discussed include:
- In what ways can productivity mindset be at odds with wellness?
- Why is it difficult to resist the urge to always be productive?
- What are some ways we can combat productivity thinking and feel more comfortable in doing less?
I hope this episode sheds light on why we feel the rise-and-grind mentality so strongly. I'm hoping we're able to feel less guilty in being as unproductive as needed for our mental health.
Ultimately, let's strive to DO less so we can BE more.
Have a wonderful week!
Xo Paula
Hello! Welcome back to this week's installment of "Reasons to be Happy." I appreciate you listening.
With Valentine's Day around the corner, I thought it would be appropriate to record an episode all about LOVE (spoiler alert: I'm talking about the most radical form of love - the one you have for yourself).
I start the episode by opening up about my own love life and dating experiences, which was a bit nerve-wracking to share, if I’m being honest.
I then go into the essential questions: what is self-love? How can we nurture it? And why does it matter?
I have been on a self-love journey for the past year or so, and I am hoping this episode offers value to others. As always, I'd love to connect so please find me on Instagram (@reasonstobehappythepodcast).
Lastly, if you like this episode and think it could help someone else, please feel free to share it or post it on social media. I am very grateful for you being here, and I appreciate you helping to grow this little community.
Have a lovely week, and Happy Valentine's Day! Be sure to treat yourself well.
<3 Paula
Welcome back to another episode of "Reasons To Be Happy," and thanks so much for tuning in!
Today's episode is all about ENVY: how to identify it, what to do when it rears its ugly head, and how you can harness it to enhance and elevate your life.
I begin by discussing how to differentiate between the two emotions: envy and jealousy. I then go into how envy can lead down two paths: a negative one or a positive one. It is possible to learn from our envy and use it to benefit our current circumstances and goals.
I hope you find value in this episode, and please feel free to share with anyone who might be interested. Also, you are welcome to follow along with my journey on Instagram (@reasonstobehappythepodcast).
If you're enjoying the podcast, I'd really appreciate a positive review. It would mean so much to me. And you can look at is as boosting your own good karma. :)
Have a great week!
<3 Paula
Hello! Welcome back to another episode and thank you for listening.
This week’s episode is on toxic positivity. I discuss what it is, what it looks like in real life, and how it can be problematic.
Several years ago, I used to be overly focused on positivity and I felt pressure to stay positive. However, I began realizing that “false cheerfulness” isn’t helpful, honest, or healthy.
In this episode, I offer some ways we can be gentle with ourselves, and others, when opening up about challenging situations. As we build awareness on mental wellbeing, we can learn to increase our mindfulness around emotions and create safe spaces for each other to be vulnerable.
I hope you find value in this episode, and I'd love for you to share your experiences with toxic positivity on my Instagram (@reasonstobehappythepodcast). Also, please feel free to share with me your reason to be happy, either by direct messaging me a photo or a brief story on IG. I'd love to hear from you!
Thanks for tuning in and have a great week!
<3 Paula
Welcome back and thank you for listening. :)
Today's topic is on breaking down the subject of positive thinking. I'll answer the questions: What is positive thinking? How do you do it? How can it help you lead a happier life?
I open up the episode by sharing a new segment idea called "What's Your Reason?" This segment would feature the reasons people choose happiness. Either by taking a photo or writing a message, I invite you to share your reason with me to my Instagram (@reasonstobehappythepodcast). It'd be nice to have a little support system of people that hold each other accountable and support one another on our joyful journeys.
I also share how positive thinking has helped me and totally changed my attitude. I suggest a few simple ways to prompt happier thoughts (some of them are a little ~cringe~ by they really do work and are supported by scientific data!). I close out the episode by sharing 3 concrete benefits of positive thinking.
There are so many great resources out there about the science of positive thinking, so if you're interested, I encourage you to continue the learning.
Stay well,
<3 Paula
Hello! Welcome back to another episode of "Reasons to Be Happy." Thanks so much for listening. :)
This episode is about looking back on the Covid-19 pandemic with a more positive mindset and attempting to reframe any negative outlooks. I discuss the new parts of me that I found during the past two years, and how being present and grateful represents a big part of that evolution.
I hope you find value and joy in this episode. I'd love to engage listeners in this conversation and ask that you share how you grew during the pandemic on my Instagram account (@reasonstobehappythepodcast). Thank you and be well!
Welcome! My name is Paula, and this is one of my first podcast episodes ever. Thank you for being here.
In this episode, I discuss the origin story of what lead me to record a podcast. I share my goals, my background, and my "why" for the podcast. I answer the question, what even IS happiness and why it is so important to choose it for ourselves.
At 33 years old, I am only just learning that happiness is an active choice we make. In this series, I am looking forward to learning and sharing my discoveries about mental health, the power of joy and finding purpose, and how we can all live more inspired and fulfilling lives.
Follow along with my journey on Instagram at @reasonstobehappythepodcast. <3
Happy New Year and welcome to 2022!
In this episode, I discuss New Year's Eve and the pressure we put on ourselves to have a memorable holiday. I share my experiences and opinions on resolution making. I also present some alternative ways of establishing resolutions, as well as suggest doable ways to achieve our goals.
We all have the capacity to grow and achieve whatever it is we desire! Isn't that awesome?! I believe framing our goals positively, as well as approaching them with compassion, introspection, and patience is key for success. I hope you enjoy listening, and I'd love to hear your goals on my Instagram posts (@reasonstobehappythepodcast).