Where to Next | Spirituality, Health & Wellness, Life Coaching: Recent Episodes
Stacey Kvulakh | Life Coach, Podcast Host, and Speaker
Welcome to Where to Next? A podcast for the driven woman who’s “been there, done that” and wants to be intentional about what’s next.
Do you wonder why—on paper, your life is bomb—but you still feel meh? Maybe you want to wow yourself and finally, do the thing you’ve never done before? What if you could stop getting in your own way and see the patterns keeping you stuck? Do you love being proud of yourself, knowing you left nothing on the table?
Hi, I’m Stacey V. Like you, I created a beautiful life and longed for more. Despite achievements and accolades, and having worked with experts and mentors, more remained elusive, and I kept searching with the hope something would magically click. Until one day, I stopped trying so hard. Pausing and listening to my intuition led me to what was next. And I’m here to share the same message with you.
Each week, I’ll teach you how to get where you want to go next while focusing on what’s working and lighting you up. You’ll learn to connect and leverage your intuition, acknowledge doubt when it comes up, and have the skills and confidence to keep going.
You’ll create your next steps with new mindset tools and crystalized wisdom, all while doing life YOUR way (and not someone else’s) and realizing it’s way easier than you ever thought.
Because, my love, living life this way, your way, means the best is yet to come. Believe it. You were made for this.
The best place to find me is directly in my inbox, hello@staceyv.com LinkedIn and Instagram work, too. And be sure to drop your email address for a weekly note with insights, wisdom, and recommendations—sign up below or hello@staceyv.com
I can’t wait to connect with you. Thanks so much for being here.
Website: www.staceyv.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/staceyvulakh LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/staceyvulakh
Today’s episode features Erin Paruszewski, Founder & CEO of Alkalign. Erin talks about the problems she sees within the fitness industry, and shares why she’s so passionate about functional fitness as a sustainable way to take care of our bodies and live well.
Stacey & Erin chat about how to become consistent with exercise, build better habits, and prioritize self-care, so that you can support your body for the years to come.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- 1:30 - The pros and cons social media
- 5:00 - Getting off our phones to foster real connections
- 12:20 - Functional fitness & why it’s so important
- 22:15 - The key to being consistent & building good habits
- 31:30 - The value of life experience and relatability in the fitness industry
- 41:40 - Disrupting toxic diet & fitness culture
- 48:00 - Why you should focus on quality over quantity with exercise
- 57:15 - Navigating midlife changes & prioritizing self-care
- 1:07:40 - Wellness travel essentials
- 1:13:50 - This period of your life could be your primetime
QUOTABLE
“If you’re taking care of yourself, your body is better prepared to face challenges or recover.”
“Good habits build upon good habits.”
LINKS
Sleep Mask: find it here
Therapy Balls: find it here
CONNECT WITH ERIN
Website: https://alkalignstudios.com/
IG: @alkalignfitness
CONNECT WITH STACEY
Instagram | LinkedIn | Website
In today’s episode, Stacey responds to the election results, and focuses on navigating the moments in life when we receive unexpected & unsettling news. She shares practical strategies to help you process your feelings, manage anxiety, and find clarity amidst the chaos.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
(2:15) Calm your mind & body
(5:50) Write out all of your thoughts
(8:30) Identify the worst-case scenario
(11:40) Stay open to all future possibilities
(15:30) What Stacy does to get through challenging moments
QUOTABLE
“Your brain is designed to keep you safe at all costs; it wants you to seek pleasure, avoid pain and discomfort - and do it in the most efficient way possible.”
“We look to the past for answers about the future, but there’s on way we can predict what’s going to happen. It’s a blank slate.”
CONNECT WITH STACEY
Instagram | LinkedIn | Website
Today’s episode features Tracy Harward, the creator of Ishtara, a movement method that promotes body awareness and healing.
Stacey and Tracy explore the importance of connecting with your body, and the transformative power of listening to what your body has to say. Tracy shares how she created Ishtara, and explains how processing your feelings in your body can lead to healing, freedom, and self-love.
Tracy is the creator of Ishtara - an embodiment method that balances emotions and gives you a way to become your own healer. Tracy created Ishtara from her own journey of healing herself from childhood trauma through the wisdom of her body. After years of searching for answers, she healed herself by learning to listen to her own body's guidance in meditative movement. What began as her personal practice gradually evolved into her life's work—empowering others learn to heal themselves. Through a decade of following her body's wisdom, Tracy created a method to naturally transform patterns held in the nervous system. She also validated her method by studying with experts she deeply admires, including Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, Dr. Peter Levine, Dr. Stephen Porges, and Dr. Pat Ogden. These studies, along with her exploration of gestalt psychology, trauma therapy, attachment theory, Jungian psychology, and yoga, helped her understand the science behind what she was experiencing. Ishtara grew from Tracy's desire to share what worked for her, offering simple, body-based practices that make healing accessible to everyone. Today, she feels grateful to see Ishtara being shared by compassionate, trauma-informed teachers and embraced by people around the world who are discovering their own path to healing through movement.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
(0:20) Grounding practices & connecting to your body
(2:30) How we become disconnected from our bodies
(7:14) Tracy’s story & the origin of Ishtara
(12:35) Finding the spark to keep trying when nothing is working
(17:18) The pivotal experience that taught Tracy to go towards what she was feeling in her body, instead of running away
(25:43) Why processing emotions in your body is safer, faster, and freeing
(32:20) Finding complete love from within, beyond romantic relationships
(35:00) Stacey’s experience of healing through Ishtara & what she learned about herself in the process
(43:10) Your body is the source of your intuition
(45:45) How to know if Ishtara is for you
(52:30) The power of listening to your body & following its wisdom
CONNECT WITH TRACY
Website: ishtarabody.com
IG: @ishtarabody
CONNECT WITH STACEY
Instagram | LinkedIn | Website
Welcome back to the Where to Next Podcast! In this episode, Stacey reflects on her decision to end the podcast, and shares why she’s bringing it back, plus what to expect in this new iteration.
She talks about embracing the midlife phase of life - and what to do when you start to have more energy & bandwidth, and you find yourself wanting to make a shift or go do something new.
Stacey closes the episode with four things you can do right now to figure out what’s next for you.
If you’re ready to step out of your comfort zone and embrace a new chapter in your life - this episode is for you!
KEY TAKEAWAYS
(1:00) It’s time to stop quitting on ourselves
(3:30) Embracing this phase of life - you’re not starting over
(6:45) What to expect in this new iteration of the podcast
(7:30) The power of taking risks & stepping outside of your comfort zone
(9:50) Four things you can do right now to figure out what’s next for you
QUOTABLE
“The only way we fail in life is when we quit on ourselves.”
“You’re not staring over. You have a wealth of knowledge, expertise, knowledge, intuition, wisdom - and that matters, because you can’t unknow what you already know.”
“You have everything you need right now to go and do whatever it is you want to go and do.”
CONNECT WITH STACEY
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Today’s conversation features Danielle Stanton, co-founder and CEO of Fuel 4 Ever. Danielle shares her personal journey through perimenopause, hormonal changes, and mental health struggles.
Danielle emphasizes the importance of going after what you want - at any stage of life. She shares what its like to launch a company and run a business with her husband.
Stacey and Danielle chat about going through challenges, the importance of mindset & resilience, and celebrating this chapter in life.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
(2:35) What happens when perimenopause is misdiagnosed as depression
(16:50) If you want more … go for it!
(20:50) How Danielle created products and launched Fuel 4 Ever
(23:45) What it’s like running a business with your husband
(25:10) Behind the scenes of selling a consumer packaged good
(31:30) Shifting your parenting style after divorce
(34:10) Finding things that light you up & getting through tough moments after divorce
(40:35) The challenges of making female friends at this stage of life
(45:02) Celebrating this chapter of your life
CONNECT WITH DANIELLE
- Fuel 4 Ever: https://fuel4ever.com/
- Personal IG: @daniellenstanton
- Business IG: @fuel4ever_
CONNECT WITH STACEY
Instagram | LinkedIn | Website
Welcome to Where to Next - The Reboot!
This version of the podcast will feel a little different from last time.
There will be conversations, interviews, solo episodes, and coaching.
You can expect inspiration, practical advice and wisdom, a little bit of woo (or maybe a lot!), takeaways … and probably tears, from time to time.
This podcast is for you if you’re in the midlife stage of life, and you’re itching to do something new, make a career change, or pivot a part of your life.
You’ll hear stories of women who have taken leaps, while feeling afraid; those who have mustered courage to go after more, despite not needing to; and those who have intentionally upset the apple cart, because they wanted to.
This chapter of your life is the prime time.
Stay on the lookout for new episodes of Where to Next - The Reboot, dropping soon!
Connect with Stacey
Instagram | LinkedIn | Website
Stacey has some news to share …this is the final episode of Where to Next. It’s not because Stacey is quitting or isn’t having fun. Quite the opposite. The podcast isn’t taking Stacey in the direction she wants to go, so instead of forcing things, she’s stopping while she’s still enjoying it. Hear more about this decision and Stacey’s plans for the future in this final episode.
As this chapter comes to a close, it's not a farewell, but an invitation to stay connected with Stacey. Join her on Instagram for new adventures, remember to subscribe to her newsletter for exclusive updates, empowering insights, and the latest news about her upcoming endeavors.
KEY TAKEAWAYS (0:10) This is the final episode of the Where to Next podcast! Hear why Stacey has loved this podcast so much.
(1:05) Here’s why the podcast is ending.
(3:49) It can sometimes take us a while to take action on how we’re feeling.
(5:33) Part of this process has been through journaling.
(8:22) The irony of the Where to Next Podcast ending isn’t lost on Stacey. Hear her thoughts.
(10:58) Goodbye for now. Make sure to keep up with Stacey on her Instagram and newsletter!
QUOTABLE “We tend to live in our heads, but we are not our thoughts.”
“I don’t see this as quitting. I see this as no longer taking me in the direction I want to go.”
“When we do things that don’t light us up, that’s letting me down and that’s letting you down.”
“When you’re at a party, make sure you leave when you’re having a good time.”
SOCIAL Email Stacey | Instagram | LinkedIn | Website
Have you ever experienced those overwhelming 'just can't' days when even the simplest tasks feel impossible? Whether it's tackling never-ending chores, enduring social interactions, or battling low energy levels, we've all been there. And guess what? Stacey can relate!
On this episode of the Where to Next Podcast, Stacey shares her process for getting through the hard days – where you’re dealing with frustration and exhaustion. When everything feels so challenging. She also talks about how taking care of yourself models healthy behavior for your kids. Tune in to this episode and equip yourself with the tools you need to face your next 'just can't' day with grace and determination.
Sign up for Finding Forward, the 6-week small group experience to help you define & decide your next best steps by emailing hello@staceyv.com and put “register” in the subject line.
KEY TAKEAWAYS(0:14) Today’s topic can be shared with your kids! Hear why.
(1:30) Stacey recently had one of these days. Here’s what happened.
(3:09) The first thing Stacey does when these days are happening: Stop
(4:40) Next, Stacey has a conversation with herself.
(6:07) Third, Stacey pinpoints what she “just can’t” do.
(6:51) Finally, it’s time to solve the problem.
(10:15) Here’s what Stacey learned through her most recent “just can’t” day.
(12:26) Do you practice self-compassion on hard days? Hear why you should.
(15:24) When you ask for help, you’re modeling healthy behavior for your kids.
(17:19) Stacey shares an analogy from a storm.
QUOTABLE“The thing about thoughts is whenever we have a thought, we have a feeling.”
“We are not the things we think.”
“What’s gotta go? What can I let go of for now?”
“Our children need to know they can ask for help. They need to know it’s okay.”
SOCIALEmail Stacey | Instagram | LinkedIn | Website
Get ready to welcome the much-anticipated season of summer! With its vibrant energy, sunny days, and a plethora of exciting plans and vacations, summer holds a special place in our hearts. As moms, we often find ourselves caught up in the whirlwind of chauffeuring our kids to various activities, which can make it challenging to recapture the carefree summer spirit we experienced in our own childhood. However, fear not! In this engaging podcast episode, Stacey dives into practical tips and insights to help moms reclaim that wonderful summer feeling and create a season of joy and fulfillment for themselves.
Join us as Stacey shares her wisdom and expertise on how to curate a memorable summer experience that you, as a mom, can genuinely enjoy. From simple yet effective strategies to indulging in self-care and finding pockets of relaxation amidst the hustle and bustle, this episode is packed with inspiration to make the most of the summer season.
Sign up for Finding Forward, the 6-week small group experience to help you define & decide your next best steps by emailing hello@staceyv.com and put “register” in the subject line.
10 for 10 List by Lindsey Lives Well
KEY TAKEAWAYS(1:08) It’s about to be summer break for Stacey’s kids. Hear what she loves about Summer!
(2:56) Moms never want to feel resentful in the Summer. This is what Stacey did to resolve these feelings.
(4:21) First, Stacey got curious about her feelings. Listen to what she means.
(6:51) Let’s chat about planning events in the summer. Hear how Stacey approaches them.
(12:41) What should happen at home during the Summer?
(13:28) Hear some ideas about Summer activities the whole family can do, no just your kids.
(17:00) Here’s what Stacey is looking forward to this Summer!
QUOTABLE“Plans are a direction. It’s an intention, if you will. It’s like picking a point on a map and then aiming for that. You can deviate, that’s fine. At least you know where you’re going.”
“Summer is totally a state of mind. You having that state of mind, however you want to feel, is possible.”
“I know when I give myself an afternoon or whatever it is, that space I give myself is a gift.”
“What does Summer mean to you? What are the feelings you love about Summer? What is your intention for yourself for this Summer?”
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Join us for a unique episode of the Where to Next Podcast, as we accompany Stacey on a walk with her dogs. In this conversation, Stacey candidly shares her personal journey and the complexities she faces during Mother's Day, marked by the loss of her mother at the young age of 19.
In this episode, Stacey reflects on the bittersweet emotions that accompany Mother's Day. Stacey shares the profound impact her mother's absence has had on her life and what she has learned along the way. Tune in to hear some tools for you to use if you relate to Mother’s Day being complicated.
Sign up for Finding Forward, the 6-week small group experience to help you define & decide your next best steps by emailing hello@staceyv.com and put “register” in the subject line.
KEY TAKEAWAYS(0:17) Welcome back to the podcast! You’re joining Stacey on her walk.
(1:21) Today, Stacey is sharing what she learned after her mom passed away: How to take care of herself.
(3:24) Stacey realized what she needed to do for herself– Mother herself in some ways.
(4:51) Stacey still continues the practice of taking care of herself. Hear what she does.
(5:37) If you resonate with this episode, sign up for Stacey’s virtual meetup group.
QUOTABLE“Holding love, demonstrating love, just being love. That’s what I think about with “mothering” myself.”
SOCIALEmail Stacey | Instagram | LinkedIn | Website
Are you tired of being trapped in endless thought loops that undermine your self-esteem? Whether it's ruminating over a perceived conversational misstep or fixating on the temptation of a single Hershey Kiss, these thought loops can seize control and dominate our thoughts throughout the day.
In this episode, our host Stacey opens up about a personal experience that occurred on the day of recording. She recounts her morning struggle and how she escaped the clutches of a persistent thought loop.
Stacey will share practical tips and techniques that have helped her successfully break free from thought loops. By implementing these strategies, you'll gain the tools needed to regain control over your mind and experience newfound peace and self-confidence. Tune into this episode and gain valuable insights from her journey and learn effective techniques to overcome similar challenges in your own life.
KEY TAKEAWAYS(1:04) Stacey shares what happened to her the morning she recorded this podcast.
(5:00) Today, we’re talking about all-or-nothing thinking. Hear what this is and why it happens.
(8:22) Hear another way thought loops show up.
(9:19) What’s going on when we’re stuck in a thought loop?
(11:24) The good news: You have a choice to stay in a thought loop or not!
(13:34) Here’s what Stacey did to get out of her thought loop this morning.
(16:04) With practice, Stacey has defeated thought loops. She shares how.
(19:07) Stacey shares one last tool to help you get out of thought loops.
QUOTABLE“We can keep engaging in certain patterns or behaviors because it’s familiar. Imagine you’re hiking. Those synapses in your brain are just like hiking paths. They are well-worn paths. Forging a new hiking path takes a lot of back and forth for it to become dirt. Our brain’s pathways are just like hiking paths. The ones we practice are the ones we will continue to go to.”
“One of my favorite tools is to ask myself this: ‘Can I just ______?’ Can I just go for a walk around the block? Can I just focus on one part of my project for 10 minutes?”
“What’s a thought loop? It’s when your brain fixates on a thought and it just keeps looping and looping.”
SOCIALEmail Stacey | Instagram | LinkedIn | Website
We think when we buy a luxury item, it’s about the thing. Not really. In this episode, Stacey shares her experience of working at Louis Vuitton in New York City. She reveals her insightful realization about the reasons behind the exhilarating feeling of buying luxury goods, especially for oneself. Tune in to discover why the shopping experience can be so satisfying and the questions she always gets asked about her time working there: think discounts and celebrities. Oh yes—Stacey dishes about both.
KEY TAKEAWAYS(0:28) Today, we’re talking about the real value of buying luxury goods.
(1:28) Hear how Stacey got the job at Louis Vuitton in Manhattan.
(4:31) The way you feel in stores is all by design. Stacey explains why.
(7:52) Stacey shares a story about her favorite customer.
(9:02) Do you have a “thing” with buying luxury goods? Hear some examples from Stacey.
(11:12) Remember, these are just temporary, external cues.
(12:55) Before Stacey goes – she shares about the LV discount and the celebrity sightings!
QUOTABLE“Everything we do in life is to create a feeling, experience a feeling, or avoid a feeling.”
“These external cues are just that. They are outside of us. And their impact is often temporary.”
“Everything we buy comes down to one thing… It is the feeling you are trying to create or avoid.”
SOCIALEmail Stacey | Instagram | LinkedIn | Website
How many hours, days, or even weeks do you spend pining over decisions? This is called living in indecision. In today’s podcast episode, host, Stacey, discusses what indecision is costing us in our lives. Not making a decision keeps us stuck, frustrated, and feeling confused and overwhelmed, whether we realize it or not. Tune into this week’s podcast episode to hear the steps to take when you’re faced with a big decision and how to get out of this cycle.
Fill out this survey and get a chocolate bar!
KEY TAKEAWAYS(0:17) Today, we’re talking about indecision! Hear a story about Stacey’s recent indecision.
(3:01) What is indecision costing us?
(4:43) Here’s another cost of avoiding decisions.
(5:21) What happens when you avoid being confused? Other issues arise.
(8:20) Have you filled out my survey yet? It’s the last week to!
(8:48) Stacey shares an example of how indecision was costly for her.
(9:53) There will be days you aren’t 100% clear. That’s okay!
(11:06) Hear what to do when facing indecision.
(13:30) This is Stacey’s favorite way to make a decision.
(13:50) Listen to these extra principles from Stacey before you finish this episode!
QUOTABLE“Indecision is incredibly expensive.”
“Life is not always yes or no. There’s so much room in the middle.”
“‘I don’t know’ is NEVER an answer.”
“Indecision is a decision. By not making a decision, you are deciding.”
SOCIALEmail Stacey | Instagram | LinkedIn | Website
You know those inspirational quotes about “owning your unique self” and “embracing your magic”? Logically, we get it yet may find it hard to break out of the cycle of “being you” and making a change for themselves. That’s what Stacey chats about in this episode. Tune in to hear how you can start embracing your “youness” and why it’s easier than you think. Please remember to leave a review on your favorite platform while when you’re done listening.
Also, want to help Stacey out? Complete survey and get a chocolate bar!
Irene Lyon, Nervous System Expert | Instagram
KEY TAKEAWAYS(1:08) Today’s episode is about owning who you are without apology.
(2:29) So much of our perspective on being a woman is rooted in our society. Hear why.
(6:00) Stacey shares some truths about owning who you are.
(8:02) Here’s what to do if you want to move out of your comfort zone.
(11:32) We can’t do this work alone! Do you need a support system?
(12:49) When you’re making a change, try these tips from Stacey.
(14:35) Make sure you’re having fun making this change!
QUOTABLE“You have a choice in how you show up.”
“If you want a different result, it requires you to be different.”
“You don’t get to this moment in your life without going through something.”
“Sometimes we need to slow down to go faster.”
SOCIALEmail Stacey | Instagram | LinkedIn | Website
Happy birthday, Stacey! In this special podcast episode, Stacey chats about how she celebrates her birthdays. Spoiler: She plans her very own birthday celebrations. Of course, her family helps make the dream come to life, but she makes sure she gets to spend the day how she wants to. Hear why she started doing this, why celebrating is superfood for your brain, and how planning your own celebration can set a important example for your kids. Tune in, and please remember to leave a review or send this episode to a friend.
Fill out this survey and get a chocolate bar!
KEY TAKEAWAYS(1:30) Stacey loves birthdays. Hear why they’re so important to her.
(3:15) This love for birthdays ties back to childhood and Stacey’s mom. (4:58) Stacey started to plan her own birthday parties a few years ago. Learn why she does.
(7:37) Communicating her expectations also models self-directed behavior for her children.
(8:29) But, what about the fun birthday surprises? Here’s how they still show up.
(9:32) There’s a lot of science behind the benefits of celebrating. Hear why you want to celebrate more.
(13:14) So, what’s Stacey doing for her birthday this year? She has some rituals she does every year.
QUOTABLE“By planning my birthday, it does away with the whole concept of expectations.”
“Not everybody in our lives gets to be as old as we are today.”
“We expect other people to read our minds, and most of the time, our expectations are not met because we don’t communicate what we want clearly.”
SOCIALEmail Stacey | Instagram | LinkedIn | Website
Today’s episode of the Where to Next Podcast is a little different. In this episode, Stacey shares what has been lighting her up and nourishing her soul lately. You don’t have to do all of the things Stacey has been loving, but take a moment and think about what is feeling good to you lately. What are the little parts about your day that you love? Tune into this podcast episode to get some ideas for different ways to care for yourself, and hear why it’s so important to appreciate the little things in your life.
The Class by Taryn Toomey
Caraway Pans
The Archetypes Podcast by Meghan Markle
Fill out this survey and get a chocolate bar!
KEY TAKEAWAYS(0:44) Welcome back to the podcast! Let’s chat about four of Stacey’s favorite things right now.
(1:50) The first thing – Exercise classes! Specifically “The Class.”
(5:14) The second thing – Pilates!
(8:55) Have a few minutes? Fill out this survey. You’ll get a chocolate bar or a cup of coffee on Stacey!
(9:24) The third thing – Caraway pans—because meals don’t cook themselves
(13:26) The fourth thing – The Archetypes Podcast by Meghan Markle
(17:23) Bonus! Stacey has been loving going to Church again.
(20:45) How often do you listen to you? How often do you nourish your soul?
QUOTABLE“When those things drop in, when they come to you, go with it. Those are the breadcrumbs in life that I want you to follow.”
“Sometimes when we go back to what we used to know, it can bring a different perspective.”
“What served us at one time … It’s possible that it could now.”
SOCIALEmail Stacey | Instagram | LinkedIn | Website
How often do you stop yourself from trying something new because you’re afraid or have doubts? More than ever, s many of us are afraid of being challenged by and being mediocre at new activities; so we don’t try and then we end up feeling depleted and disappointed in ourselves. In today’s episode of the Where to Next podcast, host, Stacey Vulakh, shares why getting comfortable with mediocrity is the secret to achieving your dreams. A lot of women struggle with the concept of starting something they may not be great at because they feel like it’s selfish. In reality, doing the hard things and the things that light us up, even for just five minutes per day, is what makes us shine. Tune into this episode to hear how.
Fill out this survey and get a chocolate bar!
KEY TAKEAWAYS(0:46) Hear what’s going on in Stacey’s personal life that inspired this episode.
(3:11) Stacey was also inspired by a quote from Cathy Heller. Hear the quote!
(4:57) We’ve forgotten what it’s like to be a beginner. Stacey explains why it’s okay to be mediocre.
(6:08) Do you keep yourself from starting something new because you’re trying to avoid feeling uncomfortable?
(9:22) You have a choice to get over this fear. Stacey explains how.
(12:14) What are the benefits of learning to be immaculately mediocre? Hear them!
(15:29) Pardon the interruption! Do you love chocolate? Stacey is giving away chocolate! Hear how to get one here!
(15:45) The little things add up. Start by doing something new for five minutes a day.
(16:43) Hear two reasons starting something new can save you time.
(18:19) Stacey shares a roadblock she often hears from women.
QUOTABLE“I bet the reason why you think this is hard and boring is because it’s new.”
“Having the stamina to tolerate your mediocrity is the key to your brilliance. Having the courage to tolerate your mediocrity is what will allow you to find the magical things you’re going to do.” -Cathy Heller
“When we don’t take chances, we’re not pushing ourselves to our edges.”
“We spend so much time resisting what we want to do [and that’s why] we’re so flipping exhausted.”
“This is about creating because you want to. Because you exist. Because you can.”
SOCIALEmail Stacey | Instagram | LinkedIn | Website
Breakups aren’t only for relationships. We can break up with anything, including our habits. We all have habits or behaviors we could stand to take a look at and possibly separate from. Think: those behaviors that hold us back and keep us from growing. In this podcast episode, host, Stacey Vulakh, shares her breakup list and gives listeners some ideas on what they can breakup with. Because breakups can be fun (yes!), she shares a different way of separating from these behaviors to make it more effective. Tune into this episode if you have some habits you need to give the boot!
Episode 12: How Not to Talk to Yourself
KEY TAKEAWAYS(0:26) Stacey shares a story from a recent event.
(2:19) Does having a “to-do list” feel heavy and never-ending to you?
(3:44) Here’s a list of things Stacey has broken up with.
(6:38) Do you tell yourself things don’t matter? Hear why this may be a destructive behavior.
(10:12) Stacey broke up with “I am” statements. She explains why.
(11:55) Make breaking up with these things fun and write a “Dear John” letter!
(13:15) Stacey explains why you want to make a breakup list.
(16:16) Here’s possible upsides of breaking up with these habits.
QUOTABLE“Breaking up with things can be just as freeing as adding things.”
“We’re always learning.”
“We have taken so much in our lives”
“If you can gently break up and put some distance, separate that part of you gently, it will fall by the wayside and melt into the background.”
“We've taken on so much in our lives, we don't even realize the impact that certain habits and behaviors have.”
SOCIALEmail Stacey | Instagram | LinkedIn | Website
What are the best decisions you’ve ever made in your life? Have you taken the time to think about them? In this podcast episode, Stacey shares the best decisions she has ever made and how they impacted her life. And she wants you to do the same. Have fun with this one, some of your decisions may surprise you!
KEY TAKEAWAYS(0:43) Today, we’re talking about decisions, in particular, the great ones.
(1:40) We make decisions from the moment we wake up.
(2:28) Why do we want to know our best decisions?
(4:33) Here are the best decisions Stacey has ever made.
(8:28) Stacey shares about one other big decision that has to do with her husband.
(10:05) Hear this seemingly insignificant decision and how it changed her life.
(11:36) In 2021, Stacey stopped offering private coaching. Here’s why she decided this..
(14:46) Why are lower-stake decisions and higher-stake decisions the same?
(17:55) Here’s why you should jot down the best decisions you have made.
QUOTABLE“Reflecting on the best decisions you’ve ever made are kind of like a footnote to present you and future you.”
“What people say about your decisions has nothing to do with you, it has everything to do with them.”
“They’re all just decisions. It’s the value we assign to them that makes them mean something.”
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On today’s episode of Where to Next, host, Stacey Vulakh, chats about the concept of “future self.” This is very different than setting goals. It’s the process of becoming who you want to be—every day. Tune into this podcast episode to hear how to create and become the person you have always wanted to be with some helpful questions to ask yourself on the road to becoming.
KEY TAKEAWAYS(0:40) Let’s talk about the concept of “future self.”
(1:49) Who is “future you”? What is different?
(4:20) How is “future self” different than setting goals?
(7:12) Here is a question you can ask your future self so you can start to become her.
(8:26) What is standing between you today and future you?
(10:20) A big part of creating “future self” is change. But not the type of change you may think.
(12:05) Hear Stacey’s suggestions for becoming your future self.
(14:18) Make sure to send this podcast to your friend!
QUOTABLE“Every single person on this planet has demands on their time.”
“You are making progress. It is never about doing everything perfectly.”
“Your future is happening whether you think it is or not.”
“Focus on the being over doing.”
“Future self work is loving and gentle.”
“I want to be proud of who I am being because I know the proud version of me takes different actions than insecure and scared me.”
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How do you talk to yourself? Are you kind and loving as you are with your BFF? Or do you get mouthy and sassy with the occasional edge? If it’s the latter, it’s time to make some changes. In this week’s podcast episode, Stacey talks about certain words and phrases that may be doing more harm than good. What you think and how you speak to yourself are impactful, so tune into this episode and learn a few tiny yet potent tweaks to your vernacular.
KEY TAKEAWAYS(1:08) The thoughts and words you say to yourself are so important. Hear why.
(1:50) Let’s talk about the word, “Should.”
(3:05) The word “Should” can start a negative cycle in ourselves and others.
(4:55) Next, let’s talk about the phrase, “I’m a hot mess.”
(7:04) Hear solutions for how you can change these patterns.
(9:23) Change takes awareness and time. Stay compassionate towards yourself.
QUOTABLE“95% of what we think on a daily basis is in our subconscious. Meaning, we are not actively aware of 95% of what's going on in our brain.”
“We start believing these words, we start identifying with them, and we may not realize the impact that they're having on us.”
“You are not a mess. You can say, ‘Oh wow, I’m having a bumpy day,’ but you are not a mess.”
“If you wouldn’t say it to somebody else, why would you say it to yourself?”
“Being gentle and kind to ourselves is what works.”
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In this episode of the Where to Next podcast, Stacey walks listeners through a Christmas morning gone wrong. When her children were young, instead of the idyllic present opening scene she’d dreamt of, her children broke out in tears. Not everything works out as we imagine. It’s what happens next that matters more: how do we evaluate and learn for next time. Hear Stacey’s process and tips for why this assessment process can actually save you time and stress and money in this podcast episode.
KEY TAKEAWAYS(0:51) Hear Stacey’s for context for this episode.
(1:57) How often do you assess what has recently happened in your life?
(4:32) Learn three quick and simple questions to help you assess recent situations.
(5:24) Let’s start with what worked?
(6:52) Now, what didn’t work?
(8:56) Lastly, what are you going to do differently?
(10:43) Hear how Stacey made changes based on the story told in the beginning of this episode.
(11:43) The assessment process doesn’t have to be long. Hear why.
(16:19) Get some knowledge from Stanford researcher, Carol Dweck.
QUOTABLE“When you can hone in on this assessment process and see what's working in one area, you can very quickly adapt and apply it to the other areas of your life.”
“I want you to focus on the facts. Your brain loves to spin stories and create drama. This is why you need to catch yourself and stick to exactly what happened.”
“There is no shame in failing. There’s no failure in looking at what worked and what didn’t.”
“Your worth on this planet does not depend on how well you perform any job. Doesn't matter how many contributions you make. What does matter is that you show up doing the best you possibly can and you are willing to always learn and expand.”
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You’re probably someone who likes to keep the promises they make to others. After all, it seems like the right thing to do. But, do you keep promises to yourself? Do you keep up with the things you say you’ll do for yourself? In this podcast episode, Stacey explains why most people don’t keep promises to themselves and gives tips to start keeping them. She shares a few exercises and mindset changes you can use to get started. Tune in to learn how to keep those promises you make to yourself!
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KEY TAKEAWAYS(2:11) Do you keep promises to others, but not yourself? Hear why this may be the case.
(4:57) Why is it in your best interest to prioritize your relationship with yourself?
(5:46) Why do we break the promises to ourselves? Hear a few reasons.
(8:33) So, how do we keep promises to ourselves?
(11:11) Here are some additional ways to keep promises to yourself.
(12:35) Here’s a plan for when you don’t keep your promises.?
(16:10) Try out these few phrases Stacey loves to use.
(17:51) Keeping promises to yourself are important!
(18:37) What are you willing to promise yourself today? Email Stacey and tell her!
QUOTABLE“When you keep promises to yourself, that is not selfish, that is in service to you and everyone around you.”
“Our relationships with ourselves are the most important relationships we’ll ever have.”
“This is something FOR you. It’s something FOR the person you’re becoming.”
“We don’t live in a perfect world. Things happen. We can’t operate under the premise that everything will be perfect.”
“Keeping promises to yourself builds your self-confidence and self-trust. Only good comes from those two places.”
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Have you heard Taylor Swift’s new song, “Ant-Hero”? If so, you know it perfectly describes our inner critic. The lyrics tell the story of how our brains self-sabotage. Understanding WHY this happens is what this podcast episode is about. In this episode, Stacey chats how we can make peace with our inner critic and use that critic productively. If you relate to “Anti-Hero” or your brain’s inner critic, you’ll want to tune into this episode.
Listen to Anti-Hero by Taylor Swift
KEY TAKEAWAYS(1:44) “Anti-Hero” explains how your brain keeps you safe. We all have an anti-hero!
(2:33) Learn how your brain works according to the Motivational Triad.
(5:22) Only 5% of your thoughts are conscious. How does this impact your actions?
(6:23) Do you experience fear when starting something new? Listen to why.
(7:54) Your inner critic will be with you forever. Hear how to make peace with her.
(11:11) How can we manage our own anti-heroes? Stacey gives the answer.
(13:17) Get Stacey’s three-step process to managing your anti-hero. First, try to ACCEPT her.
(15:23) Second, develop a DIALOGUE with your anti-hero.
(16:56) Third, PROCEED.
QUOTABLE“95% of our thoughts are subconscious, which means 5% of them are very conscious.”
“Your anti-hero is a part of you. Try to make peace with the fact that she’s with you.”
“You now have tools, nothing has gone wrong, and your inner critic doesn’t have to run the show.”
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Do you remember the book The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz? It inspired millions of people to outline a belief system for themselves. When Stacey read the book, she was struck by the profoundness and simplicity of the concept and eventually was inspired to make her own four agreements. In this episode of Where to Next, you’ll hear what Stacey’s agreements are (hint: they spell the word SAFE), why she chose them, and her recommendations for how and why to come up with your own set of beliefs.
KEY TAKEAWAYS(2:23) Stacey shares her own personal agreements. Hear what those are.
(3:15) Stacey’s four agreements spell out SAFE.
(3:53) First up, “Small things matter.”
(7:21) “Always working.” God/Source/Universe (insert yours) is always working in your life.
(11:09) “For me.” Everything is for your highest good in life.
(18:11) The newest to the list: “Everything is easier than I think.
(22:05) Create your core beliefs, or borrow hers.
QUOTABLE“Anytime you want to implement a new habit, it starts with a small thing.”
“Everything single thing that has happened is for me and my highest, best good in life.”
“With highs, come lows because we need a contrast.”
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What are you looking forward to today? Tomorrow? Next month? We ALL need things to look forward to in life and learning to create anticipation is what Stacey is talking about today. You’ll learn the importance of visualizing and the value of intentionally imagining. Check out this episode for a fun take on a small shift with big ripple effects.
KEY TAKEAWAYS(2:02) Let’s get in the habit of having something to look forward to!
(3:00) What is visualizing and why does it work?
(6:35) Why self-confidence so important?
(9:18) Visualization allows you to connect with your future self. Hear how.
(13:35) How can you have an effective visualization?
(16:28) Here’s how to start visualizing your future on a daily basis.
QUOTABLE“Your body and brain can’t tell the difference between what’s happening in reality versus what’s happening in your brain when you’re imagining.”
“Future you is built today. It’s built right now.”
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In this week’s episode of Where to Next, host Stacey Vulakh chats about worrying. Those sleepless nights of tossing and turning. Those days where you can’t focus on anything other than what you’re worried about. Worrying isn’t helpful and - surprise - it doesn’t work. Often, it makes things worse. Tune into this episode and learn why we worry and hear Stacey’s best advice for taming the worries in your mind.
KEY TAKEAWAYS(1:28) The bad news: We’re never going to stop worrying. This is why.
(2:21) Stacey had a night of worrying recently. This is what she learned.
(4:29) What is worry?
(6:55) Worrying doesn’t work. Learn why.
(10:28) Worry interferes with your future. Hear Stacey’s example.
(12:59) Here’s an exercise to do the next time you’re worrying.
(20:07) Get some tools from Stacey to help with your worries.
(24:23) Learn the worst-case scenario game.
(28:03) How to be “with” your worry (an effective strategy)
QUOTABLE“By worrying, we think we’re going to mitigate control.”
“Worry takes us away from this present moment.”
“When we’re in the future, we’re not in the present. Our future is built in the present.”
“Your truest impact is always what is happening right now in front of you.”
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In this week’s podcast episode, Stacey shares her story of how she developed a deeper relationship with her intuition in an aligned way. From a young age, she’s always been a helper and especially loves helping others to feel better. Almost two years ago, she finally took a break to help herself - in a way she hadn’t previously - and discovered the importance of deeply trusting her intuition. In this episode, Stacey explains how to connect with and hear your intuition more clearly, and the benefits of living a life aligned with your intuition. Hint: life is easier. Listen and get these helpful action steps so you can do the same.
KEY TAKEAWAYS(1:35) Hear the very beginning of Stacey’s story.
(4:00) In October 2021, Stacey had a big realization.
(7:11) Stacey’s intuition has always been a constant. Hear how connecting this way can make your life easier.
(10:37) Learn why this podcast was created.
(12:55) Here are three key takeaways from this episode.
QUOTABLE“Our intuition and our bodies will never steer us wrong.”
“You may not know what’s next, and that’s okay.”
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Happy New Year! Is there a more loaded topic than New Year’s resolutions? Don’t get me wrong, having and setting resolutions can be helpful but oftentimes, we fail way more than we succeed. There are real reasons why and they may surprise you. In this episode of the Where to Next podcast, host Stacey Vulakh, explains why some resolutions aren’t productive and can actually lead to burnout. She talks about the mindset shifts to lasting commitment, and she shows you how to come up with sustainable (and fun) goals that will get results. Tune into this episode if you’re over setting resolution yet want to create real change in 2023.
KEY TAKEAWAYS(0:56) Hear how Stacey used to go about resolutions.
(4:49) What intentions do you have with your resolutions?
(8:07) Hear some fun ideas to set goals for the year.
(11:14) A tip from Stacey that she learned in business school.
(14:30) Why all-or-nothing thinking will be your downfall no matter what.
(17:35) What action feels like loving yourself right now?
(19:21) What do you want to accomplish in the next few weeks or months?
(19:51) Who do you need to become to accomplish your goals?
(22:33) Hear Stacey’s goal as it pertains to podcasting.
QUOTABLE“These beliefs that perfection is what matters are just not true. And they will be the downfall of us if we continue to think them.”
“Choose to focus on consistency.”
“Consistency isn’t perfection. Maybe it’s 80/20. Maybe it’s 90% for you. Maybe it’s five days out of seven.”
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Journaling. It’s a top priority for some people, and for others, remains elusive and inconsistent for others. The truth is, journaling is incredibly helpful in all areas of your life. It’s a living, breathing chronicle of what’s going on in your brain. It can reflect your progress and help you identify stressors in your life, and it’s the ultimate personal growth tool. In this podcast episode of Where to Next, host Stacey discusses the lesser known benefits of journaling and how to start (again) and how to commit to this practice once and for all. Tune in to this episode for simple and effective journaling tips and a list of prompts to help you get started.
Stacey’s Favorite Journal
Journal Prompts
KEY TAKEAWAYS(1:38) Here’s what journaling isn’t.
(2:26) Here’s what journaling is.
(3:32) So, why do we do it?
(6:33) Why is journaling invaluable?
(10:23) Hear Stacey’s recommendations for journaling processes.
(13:03) Learn what a brain dump is and how it could benefit you.
(15:17) The benefits of re-reading your brain dump.
(18:30) Listen to how Stacey journals daily..
(21:20) Start listing three things you like about yourself. See why.
(23:40) What if you want privacy while keeping a journal?
QUOTABLE“When you journal, it allows you time to go deep and listen to yourself.”
“When looking back on your brain dump, remember, ‘My thoughts are not who I am.’”
“When we start with what we’re grateful for, we calm our nervous system down.”
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What are the things or habits in your life that are simply irreplaceable and must-dos? This is what Where to Next host, Stacey Vulakh, calls a non-negotiable. For her, it’s time alone with her coffee in the morning. Non-negotiables may feel indulgent but they’re essential for your overall mental, emotional and physical well-being. We all have them, we just may not realize the impact they’re having. In this episode, you’ll learn how to identify your non-negotiables and why making them a part of your life matters.
KEY TAKEAWAYS(0:52) Hear a story from Stacey about being a new mom and how she found her non-negotiables.
(3:34) Do you know what your non-negotiables are?
(5:36) Stacey suggests ways to think of non-negotiables.
(7:30) Here’s how to figure out your non-negotiables.
(9:07) Another question to ask yourself in order to identify your non-negotiables.
(10:24) Where to start with your non-negotiables.
QUOTABLE“A non-negotiable is something that is of service to you. Something that’s so dear you can’t imagine your life without it.”
“You are an ever-evolving human with needs.”
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In this episode of Where to Next, host Stacey Vulakh chats about tolerations. These are the things in your life you’ve been “putting up with” but in an ideal world, would cease to exist. They take up precious space in your brain and are distracting and energy-zapping. A toleration can be a messy makeup drawer or the incomplete home renovation project, or that person who drops digs and zingers every time you’re together. No matter what you’re tolerating, it’s important to address these things to understand what’s weighing you down, getting in your way and perhaps even keeping you stuck. Because knowledge is powerful and the first step. Want help identifying your tolerations? Listen in for a brief and easy exercise to get you started.
KEY TAKEAWAYS(1:27) Let’s define what a toleration is.
(2:48) Some examples of tolerations you may have in your life.
(4:02) Tolerations affect your life in more ways than you can imagine. Hear how.
(5:50) What if it feels scary to address certain tolerations?
(6:53) Here’s an exercise you can do to start identifying tolerations.
(8:37) What not to do when addressing your tolerations.
(9:19) Listen for what to do after completing this exercise.
QUOTABLE“Tolerations are an interference.”
“Courage begets more courage, and then I go do something more daring.”
“When you feel better about yourself, that’s where the magic happens. And there’s so much more where that came from.”
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Welcome to Where to Next? a podcast for the driven woman who’s “been there done that” and wants to be intentional about what’s next.
Do you wonder why—on paper, your life is bomb—but you still feel meh?
Maybe you want to wow yourself and finally do the thing you’ve never done before?
What if you could stop getting in your own way and see the patterns keeping you stuck?
Do you love being proud of yourself, knowing you left nothing on the table?
Hi, I’m Stacey V. Like you, I created a beautiful life and longed for more.
Despite achievements and accolades, and having worked with experts and mentors, more remained elusive, and I kept searching with the hope something would magically click.
Until one day, I stopped trying so hard.
Pausing and listening to my intuition led me to what was next.
And I’m here to share the same message with you.
Each week, I’ll teach you how to get where you want to go next while focusing on what’s working and lighting you up. You’ll learn to connect and leverage your intuition, acknowledge doubt when it comes up, and have the skills and confidence to keep going.
You’ll create your next steps with new mindset tools and crystalized wisdom, all while doing life YOUR way (and not someone else’s) and realizing it’s way easier than you ever thought.
Because, my love, living life this way, your way, means the best is yet to come. Believe it. You were made for this.
The best place to find me is directly in my inbox, hello@staceyv. LinkedIn and Instagram work, too. And be sure to drop your email address for a weekly note with insights, wisdom, and recommendations—sign up below or hello@staceyv.com
I can’t wait to connect with you. Thanks so much for being here.
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