Welcome back to the I Am Ready!
In this special Christmas episode, I’m joined by Tara Polley for a heartfelt and honest conversation about Christmas memories, motherhood, and the deeper meaning of the season beyond gifts and expectations.
During our conversation, Tara and I reflect on personal experiences that have shaped how we approach Christmas today, including:
Childhood Christmas memories and family traditions – Tara shares her experience growing up with a single mother and the sacrifices made to create meaningful Christmas moments, highlighting how those memories still shape her values today.
Motherhood and changing family dynamics – We explore how Christmas evolves as families grow, children become adults, and traditions shift, including quieter celebrations and the emotions that come with them.
Grief, absence, and emotional honesty during the holidays – Tara speaks openly about navigating Christmas after loss, while acknowledging that the festive season can bring mixed emotions, not just joy.
Presence over presents – We discuss the pressure many parents feel to create a “perfect” Christmas and why children often remember how the season felt rather than what was under the tree.
Giving back and finding connection – Tara shares how volunteering and supporting others can ease loneliness and bring meaning, especially during difficult holiday periods.
Throughout the episode, we gently remind listeners that Christmas does not need to be perfect to be meaningful. Whether your season is full or quiet, joyful or reflective, this conversation offers reassurance, compassion, and permission to honour your own experience.
This episode is created as a space of warmth, support, and connection for anyone navigating Christmas in their own way.
Learn more about Tara Poly (Guest):
🌐 Website: https://www.welcomehomesonoma.com/
📸 Instagram: / polleysproperties
📸 Facebook: / polleysproperties
📸 LinkedIn: / tarapolley
🎥 YouTube: / @polleysproperties
Learn more about Indre Ratkele (Host):
🌐 Website: https://www.i-amready.com/
📸 Instagram: @indreratkele
📧 Collaborations: contact@indreratkele.com
📖 Read Indre's articles on Brainz Magazine:
https://www.brainzmagazine.com/execut...
🎧 Listen to I Am Ready audio: https://www.iamready.podbean.com
Please visit our special Christmas website, created as a heartfelt space for reflection, meaningful conversations, and carefully curated gifts from the heart. This page brings together our Christmas episodes, personal messages, and offerings designed to support presence, self-connection, and wellbeing during the festive season and beyond. https://www.i-amready.com/the-heart-of-christmas
Download Tara's Book here: https://www.i-amready.com/the/confidence/conspiracy/by/tara/polley
© 2025 Indre Ratkele. All rights reserved. Content from I Am Ready Podcast is protected under copyright law.
Legal Note: The insights, experiences, and stories shared by guests on I Am Ready Podcast reflect their personal journeys and perspectives. They do not necessarily represent the views of Indre Ratkele or the podcast. This content is intended for inspiration, reflection, and personal growth—not professional, medical, or financial advice.
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