Shows
UnmaskingE38: Finding Balance: A Mother-Son Conversation on Comfort Zones and Campus LifeSummaryIn this heartfelt episode, Cindy Payne and her son Ethan discuss his experiences during his freshman year at Texas Tech University. They explore themes of personal growth, academic success, and the challenges of navigating college life, especially in the context of recovery from substance use. Ethan shares insights on stepping out of his comfort zone, the importance of self-advocacy, and how he has managed his ADHD in a college setting. The conversation also touches on the dynamics of their relationship as mother and son, the impact of distance, and advice for new college...2025-05-0546 minUnmaskingE37: Mood Swings and Milestones: Unmasking Mental Health in Menopause with Mandi Dixon, LPC, NCCSummaryIn this episode of the Unmasking Podcast, host Cindy Payne speaks with licensed professional counselor Mandy Dixon about the mental health aspects of menopause and perimenopause. They discuss the hormonal changes that occur during this stage of life, the impact on mental health, and the importance of understanding and addressing these changes. Mandy shares her personal journey and professional insights, emphasizing the need for women to advocate for themselves and seek support. The conversation also touches on the importance of setting boundaries, managing stress, and the role of hormone therapy in alleviating symptoms...2025-04-2849 minUnmaskingE36: Embracing Female Solo Travel: A Journey of Self-DiscoverySummaryIn this episode, Cindy shares her transformative experience of traveling solo to Morocco, reflecting on the challenges and insights gained from stepping outside her comfort zone. She discusses the importance of facing fears, the significance of midlife transitions, and the lessons learned from her journey, including the value of connection, kindness, and self-discovery.Takeaways:1. Do it afraid: Embrace fear as part of growth.2. Pivot versus panic: Adapt to unexpected changes.3. Less is more: Simplify your travel and life.4. People are...2025-04-1852 minUnmaskingE36: Lessons from Morocco: Insights on Life and Female Solo TravelSummaryIn this solo episode, Cindy shares her transformative experience of traveling alone to Morocco, reflecting on personal growth, cultural insights, and the lessons learned from embracing solitude. She discusses the challenges and fears of solo travel, the importance of human connection, and how to navigate anxiety and boredom. Through her journey, Cindy emphasizes the value of being present, the kindness of strangers, and the beauty of self-discovery.TakeawaysDo it afraid: Embrace fear as part of the journey.Pivot versus panic...2025-04-1346 minUnmaskingE35: Unmasking Menopause: A New Era of Awareness with Mary Turner, MSN, WHNP, MSCPSummaryIn this enlightening conversation, Mary Turner, a Women's Health Nurse Practitioner, shares her journey in nursing and her passion for women's health, particularly in the context of menopause. The discussion highlights the evolving understanding of menopause, the importance of hormone therapy, and the emotional and psychological changes women experience during this transition. With a focus on education and awareness, Mary emphasizes the need for women to seek help early and the role of social media in spreading knowledge about menopause. In this conversation, Mary Turner and Cindy Payne discuss the complexities of menopause...2025-04-0750 minUnmaskingE34: Beyond the Baby Blues: Moms, Mental Health, & the Postpartum ExperienceSummaryIn this episode, Cindy and Sarah delve into the complexities of postpartum experiences, discussing the differences between postpartum blues and postpartum depression. They share personal stories, emphasizing the importance of support systems, self-advocacy, and understanding the hormonal changes that accompany motherhood. The conversation also touches on the need for better postpartum care and the challenges faced by mothers in navigating their mental health. As they look ahead, they express excitement about discussing menopause and the ongoing journey of women's health.2025-03-3153 minUnmaskingE33: Unmasking Birth Stories: Healing Through Generational TraumaSummaryIn this episode of Unmasking with Cindy and Sarah, the hosts delve into their personal birth stories, exploring the impact of generational trauma on their experiences. They discuss the complexities of pregnancy, the trauma associated with childbirth, and the often unspoken challenges of postpartum life. Through their candid conversation, they highlight the importance of understanding one's birth narrative and the need for supportive care during and after pregnancy.2025-03-2448 minUnmaskingE32: Part 2 with Elise Dean: Be Bloomed-The Power of Motherhood and ResilienceSummaryIn this engaging conversation, Elise Dean shares her journey of motherhood, entrepreneurship, and personal growth. She discusses the inspiration behind her coaching business, Be Bloomed, and how her experiences with chronic illness and being a single mother have shaped her perspective. The discussion delves into the challenges of balancing motherhood and business, the impact of social media criticism, and the importance of compassion in both therapy and coaching. Elise emphasizes the significance of self-discovery, resilience, and the power of community support as she navigates her new chapter in life.2025-03-1732 minUnmaskingE31: Pt. 1: Against the Odds: Elise Dean Talks Resilience, IVF, and Finding Strength in MotherhoodSummaryIn this episode, Elise Dean shares her profound journey through chronic health issues, infertility, and motherhood. She discusses her struggles with Lyme disease, the challenges of IVF, and the emotional toll of invisible illnesses. Elise emphasizes the importance of resilience, self-advocacy, and trusting one's intuition while navigating the complexities of motherhood and personal growth. The conversation highlights the need for support systems and the reality of postpartum experiences, particularly for those who have faced infertility.2025-03-1043 minUnmaskingE30: Over 40 and Unstoppable: Celebrating Self-Love, Resilience, and Beauty Through Photography with Carmen RoseSummaryIn this episode of Unmasking, hosts Cindy and Sarah welcome photographer Carmen Rose to discuss her inspiring project, the Over 40 Project, which celebrates the beauty and resilience of women over 40. Carmen shares her creative journey, the importance of creating a comfortable environment for women during photo shoots, and the themes of resilience and growth that emerged from her work with participants. The conversation highlights the impact of self-perception, the role of media in shaping women's images, and the significance of celebrating individuality and personal stories through photography.2025-02-1752 minUnmaskingE29: Breaking the Silence: Exploring Sex, Desire, Vulnerability, and Intimacy with Dr. Edita RuzgyteSummaryIn this episode, Dr. Edita Ruzgyte discusses the complexities of intimacy and sexuality, exploring cultural influences, the role of shame and vulnerability, and the importance of communication in relationships. She emphasizes the need for individuals to understand their own sexuality and desires, and how therapists can help navigate these discussions. The conversation highlights the societal fears surrounding pleasure and the challenges of addressing desire discrepancies in intimate relationships. In this engaging conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of sexual desire discrepancies, the role of art in understanding sexuality, and the importance of...2025-02-101h 05UnmaskingE28: Creativity, Play, and Self-Love: Embracing Joy Beyond ExpectationsSummary
In this episode of Unmasking, hosts Cindy and Sarah explore the themes of creativity and play for adults, reflecting on their experiences in January and discussing the pressures of societal expectations, especially around Valentine's Day. They emphasize the importance of finding joy in simple creative activities, the role of community in fostering creativity, and the impact of alcohol on social interactions. The conversation also touches on personal growth through creative outlets like baking and crafting, and they share insights on how to engage in creativity without breaking the bank. As they look forward...2025-02-0336 minUnmaskingE27: Hands in the Clay: Jen Miller's Story of Unmasking the Creative Force of PotterySummary
In this episode of Unmasking, Cindy and Sarah engage in a heartfelt conversation with Jen Miller about her journey into pottery and the profound impact of creativity on mental health. They explore how art serves as a therapeutic outlet, especially during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic. Jen shares her experiences of finding community through pottery, the importance of authenticity in creative expression, and how engaging in art can help manage anxiety and foster emotional release. The discussion emphasizes the significance of play and creativity in navigating the complexities of motherhood and personal...2025-01-2757 minUnmaskingE26: From Graphic Design to Mental Health Advocacy - Karley Hill's Story of Healing through Creativity and ConnectionSummary
In this episode, Karley Hill shares her journey from graphic design to freelancing, emphasizing the importance of creativity in mental health. She discusses her personal struggles with ADHD and depression, the impact of social media on mental health perceptions, and the significance of finding creative outlets. Karley also highlights the lessons learned about healing, the importance of self-care, and her new apparel line aimed at promoting mental health awareness.
2025-01-2055 minUnmaskingE25: The Power of Play and Creativity in AdulthoodSummary
In this episode of Unmasking with Cindy and Sarah, the hosts discuss the significance of embracing play and creativity in the new year. They reflect on personal experiences and the importance of reducing expectations, fostering curiosity, and rediscovering the joy of play as adults. The conversation also touches on travel as a form of play and the need to shift from rigid thinking to a more playful exploration of life. The episode emphasizes the importance of self-care through creativity and the intrinsic motivation that comes from engaging in activities that bring joy.
2025-01-1339 minUnmaskingE24: The Crappy, The Happy, and What's in Store for 2025Summary
In this episode, Cindy and Sarah reflect on the highs and lows of the past year, discussing personal challenges, health scares, and the importance of processing difficult emotions. They share their experiences with family dynamics, the intensity of life, and the joy found in small moments. The conversation also touches on their plans for the future, including the podcast's growth and upcoming retreats.
2024-12-2340 minUnmaskingE23: The Complexities of Grief: Insights from a TherapistSummary
In this episode, Sarah Vaught and Bryna Talamantez discuss the complexities of grief, particularly in children and adolescents. Brenna shares her personal experiences with loss and how it shaped her career as a licensed marriage and family therapist. They explore the prevalence of child grief, the importance of language when discussing death, and the various ways to honor and remember loved ones. The conversation emphasizes the need for consistent support and understanding in navigating grief, as well as the significance of creating meaningful rituals to celebrate the lives of those who have passed.2024-12-161h 02UnmaskingE22: Navigating Grief and Loss through the Holidays with Licensed Professional Counselors, Mark and Vanessa HundleySummary
In this episode, Cindy Payne speaks with Mark and Vanessa Hunley about their experiences in grief counseling, the importance of understanding grief and loss, and how to navigate these feelings, especially during the holiday season. They share personal stories, misconceptions about grief, and practical strategies for coping with loss. The conversation emphasizes the need for social connections and the unique journeys individuals take through grief.
2024-12-0255 minUnmaskingE 21: Straddling the Tension between Grief and Gratitude this Holiday SeasonSummary
In this heartfelt conversation, Cindy and Sarah explore the complex interplay between grief and gratitude, especially during the holiday season. They share personal stories of loss, the challenges of navigating grief while parenting, and the importance of finding joy amidst sorrow. The discussion highlights the significance of creating new traditions, honoring memories, and the necessity of humor in coping with loss. They emphasize that while grief is a heavy burden, it can coexist with moments of joy and gratitude, encouraging listeners to embrace their feelings and do what makes them happy.
2024-11-2545 minUnmaskingE20: Navigating Boomer Burnout: Rebecca Sheinberg's Personal Journey of Trauma to TriumphSummary
In this episode of Unmasking, hosts Sarah Vaught and Cindy Payne welcome Sarah's mother, Rebecca Sheinberg, to discuss the themes of Boomer Burnout, childhood trauma, resilience, and creativity. Rebecca shares her personal story of growing up in a tumultuous environment, the impact of her childhood experiences on her health, and how she navigated relationships and boundaries throughout her life. The conversation highlights the importance of recognizing burnout, especially in parenting, and emphasizes the power of finding joy and purpose in life despite challenges.
2024-11-181h 00UnmaskingE19: Unpacking Burnout: A Deep Dive with Amelia Nagoski, DMA and Co-Author of Burnout: The Secret of Unlocking the Stress CycleSummary
In this enlightening conversation, Amelia Nagoski discusses the concept of burnout, its emotional and physiological impacts, and the importance of understanding stress cycles. She shares her personal journey of navigating identity, gender dynamics, and the experience of masking, particularly in the context of being a woman in a male-dominated field. The discussion emphasizes the necessity of self-compassion, the significance of rest, and the healing power of music. Amelia also introduces the concept of Human Giver Syndrome, exploring how societal expectations can lead to emotional exhaustion. The conversation concludes with practical advice for listeners...2024-11-1152 minUnmaskingE18: Running Towards Joy and Healing from Burnout with Jeanny Gallo, Yoga Instructor and Wellness AdvocateSummary
In this engaging conversation, Cindy Payne interviews Jeanny Gallo, a passionate yoga teacher and wellness advocate. Jeanny shares her journey from a career in fashion to discovering her true calling in fitness and wellness. They discuss the importance of mindful movement, recognizing burnout, and the transformative power of yoga. Jeanny emphasizes the need for self-care, communication in relationships, and the joy of adventures. The conversation highlights the lessons learned from personal challenges, including living with hearing loss, and the significance of pursuing joy and authenticity in life.
2024-11-0448 minUnmaskingE17: Exploring the Male Experience of Anxiety and Burnout with Cindy's Husband, Eric PayneSummary
In this episode of Unmasking, Cindy Payne hosts her husband Eric Payne to discuss anxiety and burnout from a male perspective. They explore Eric's background, the impact of achievement on mental health, and the differences in how men and women process emotions. The conversation delves into the symptoms of burnout, the importance of emotional processing, and the challenges of navigating new beginnings in entrepreneurship. Eric shares insights on managing anxiety and the significance of support systems in overcoming mental health challenges.
2024-10-2851 minUnmaskingE16: Cindy and Sarah's Anxiety EvolutionSummary
In this episode, Sarah and Cindy discuss their personal experiences with anxiety, reflecting on insights gained from previous guests. They explore the impact of anxiety on women, particularly in the context of motherhood, and share coping mechanisms and support systems that have helped them. The conversation also touches on the role of medication and therapy in managing anxiety, the importance of self-compassion, and the evolving understanding of mental health in parenting. They conclude with thoughts on future discussions and the significance of navigating these challenges together.
2024-10-2250 minUnmaskingE15: Unmasking Anxiety with Ashley Igo, LPC: A Journey of Resiliency and HealingSummary
In this episode of Unmasking, hosts Cindy and Sarah welcome Ashley Igo, a licensed professional counselor, to discuss her journey with anxiety, trauma, and resilience. Ashley shares her personal experiences with trauma from a young age, including a tragic train accident that shaped her life. The conversation delves into the importance of therapy, particularly EMDR, in processing trauma and the role of parenting in fostering resilience in children. Ashley emphasizes the significance of community support and advocacy, particularly through her work with the Lauren Kennedy Scruggs Foundation, which provides prosthetic coverage for those...2024-10-1449 minUnmaskingE14: Unmasking with Ann Nickel, LPC: Dealing with Anxiety from an Unexpected DiagnosisSummary
In this episode of the Unmasking Podcast, hosts Cindy and Sarah welcome Anne Nicol, a counselor who shares her personal journey with anxiety stemming from her breast cancer diagnosis. The conversation explores the complexities of managing anxiety during and after treatment, the importance of community support, and the empowerment that comes from prioritizing self-care. Anne discusses her experiences as a therapist and how her journey has shaped her practice, particularly in working with women facing similar challenges. The episode emphasizes the need for open conversations about mental health and the importance of acknowledging...2024-10-0754 minUnmaskingE13: Unmasking: Q&A with Cindy and SarahSummary
In this episode of Unmasking with Cindy and Sarah, the hosts reflect on their back-to-school series, discussing key takeaways from their guests and the challenges of parenting neurodivergent children. They delve into the anxiety that often accompanies the transition back to school and the expectations placed on parents. The conversation also touches on the difficulties of being a therapist while managing personal struggles, emphasizing the importance of self-care and the power of friendship in navigating these challenges.
2024-09-3025 minUnmaskingE12: Unmasking: Back-to-School with Parent Coach, Kim Muench: Supporting the Independence of Emerging Adult ChildrenSummary
In this episode of the Unmasking Podcast, Cindy and Sarah engage with Kim Minch, a certified parenting coach, to discuss the challenges of parenting emerging adults. Kim shares her personal journey, including her experiences with her son's addiction and the lessons learned along the way. The conversation delves into the concept of 'failure to launch,' the importance of setting boundaries, and the impact of technology on parenting. Kim emphasizes the need for parents to support their children's independence while also addressing their own emotional health. The episode concludes with practical tips for...2024-09-2353 min
UnmaskingE11: Unmasking Back-to-School with Karen Jones, M.E.d., LPC-S: Empowerment through Animal-Assisted TherapySummary
In this episode of Unmasking, Cindy Payne interviews Karen Jones, a counselor specializing in animal-assisted therapy. They discuss Karen's journey into counseling, the role of her therapy dog Deuce, and the challenges faced by parents of neurodivergent children. The conversation also covers the importance of early intervention in mental health, the pressures on teens and college students, and the need for empowerment through resources. Karen shares insights on navigating school systems and the misconceptions surrounding high school and college paths. The episode concludes with Karen's hopes for the future of her practice, Golden...2024-09-1646 minUnmaskingE10: Unmasking Back-to-School with Cindy's son, Ethan Payne: Navigating the Transition from High School to College, A Journey of Personal GrowthSummary
In this episode, Ethan Payne shares his experience transitioning from high school to college, particularly focusing on his journey of sobriety and the support he has received at Texas Tech University. He discusses the recovery program at the university, the challenges he faced leaving home and graduating high school, and how he has been able to excel academically by applying himself and utilizing the support available to him. Ethan also talks about the accommodations he received for his ADHD and the individualized support he has received from professors. He highlights the fun aspects...2024-09-0946 minUnmaskingE9: Unmasking Back-to-School with Tessa Knickerbocker, LPC: Supporting Adolescent Mental Health through Open Communication and Understanding vs. FearSummary
In this episode, Cindy and Sarah interview Tessa Knickerbocker, a middle school and high school teacher, counselor, and parent. They discuss the challenges and joys of parenting adolescents and the importance of supporting their mental health. Tessa emphasizes the need for curiosity over judgment when understanding and guiding adolescents. She also highlights the significance of creating a safe space for kids to express their emotions and helping them navigate social pressures. Tessa shares her personal experiences and insights as both an educator and a parent. In this conversation, Cindy, Sarah, and Tessa discuss...2024-09-0348 minUnmaskingE8: Unmasking Back-to-School with Kathy Riojas, MS, LPC: Honesty, Advocacy, and Support for Parents of Neurodivergent ChildrenSummary
In this episode, Cindy Payne sits down with her friend Kathy Riojas, a parent of both neurodivergent and neurotypical children. Kathy shares her experience as a mom and a licensed professional counselor, discussing the joys and challenges of parenting in the autism community. She talks about her background in public education and her transition to becoming a school counselor and later an LPC. Kathy also opens up about her complicated relationship with autism and the importance of being honest about the challenges and emotions that come with it. In this conversation, Kathy Riojas...2024-08-2655 minUnmaskingE7: Unmasking: Back-to-School SeriesSummary
In this episode, Cindy and Sarah discuss their experiences with back-to-school season. Cindy reflects on her journey as a parent and the challenges of finding the balance between overcompensating and empowering her children. Sarah shares her nervousness about her daughter starting kindergarten and the excitement surrounding the new school experience. They also touch on the pressure parents feel to make everything perfect and the different ways of preparing children for school. Overall, the conversation highlights the mixed emotions and adjustments that come with the back-to-school season. The conversation revolves around the experience of sending children back...2024-08-1935 minUnmaskingE6: Unmasking Trauma Q & A and ACE (Adverse Childhood Experiences) StudySummary
In this episode, Cindy and Sarah answer questions about trauma and discuss the relationship between trauma and dissociation. They explain that dissociation is a common experience that everyone goes through when their brain and body become overwhelmed. They also discuss how trauma can lead to more extreme forms of dissociation. They emphasize the importance of understanding dissociation and educating people about it. They also talk about trauma symptoms in adults and children, including mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, physical symptoms, and meltdowns. They highlight the need to recognize and validate these symptoms and...2024-08-1342 minUnmaskingE5: Unmasking Trauma: Karla Beaman, LCSW on Using Brainspotting to Heal from TraumaSummary:
Karla Beaman, a licensed clinical social worker, specializes in brain spotting therapy to help clients heal from PTSD and complex PTSD. She shares her journey into this second career and the impact of trauma on individuals and relationships. Brain spotting is a therapeutic approach that focuses on eye positions and bilateral stimulation to access and process trauma. Karla emphasizes the importance of attunement and creating a safe space for clients to explore their trauma. She also highlights the role of self-trust and self-compassion in the healing process. Karla's favorite thing about brain spotting is witnessing real...2024-08-0644 minUnmaskingE4: Unmasking Trauma: What is CPTSD?Summary
In this episode, Cindy and Sarah discuss complex PTSD and its impact on daily life. They explore the difference between complex PTSD and PTSD, with complex PTSD being caused by multiple traumatic events over time. They emphasize the importance of understanding the role of relationships in complex PTSD and how it affects attachment styles. They also discuss the concept of somatic healing and the need to slow down and develop a sense of discernment in order to heal from trauma. The conversation explores the importance of relinquishing control and finding ways to relax...2024-07-2948 minUnmaskingE3: Unmasking TraumaSummary:
In this episode, Cindy and Sarah introduce the topic of trauma and the concept of unmasking. They emphasize the importance of self-care and being mindful of triggers when discussing intense topics. They discuss the origins of unmasking and its negative connotation in the past, but highlight the positive aspect of unmasking in the context of mental health. They explore the difference between big traumas and little traumas, and how trauma is a subjective experience. They also discuss the role of shame and the reasons why people mask their mental health. They emphasize the importance of empathy...2024-07-2239 minUnmaskingE2: Meet CindySummary
In this conversation, Sarah interviews Cindy about her background and her journey of unmasking. Cindy shares how she initially pursued a career in teaching but felt the need to get closer to being able to help others. She went back to graduate school in her 30s and now works as a counselor in private practice. Cindy also opens up about her childhood experiences, including being raised by her grandparents and the impact of her mother's mental illness. She discusses how these experiences led her to develop a masking behavior and the challenges she...2024-07-0539 minUnmaskingE1: Meet SarahSummary
In this conversation, Sarah shares her background and her work as a therapist. She discusses her collaboration with pediatricians and her focus on play therapy. Sarah also talks about her training in different therapeutic approaches, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and space therapy. She highlights the challenges faced by neurodivergent children and the importance of providing support for them and their parents. Sarah also opens up about her own childhood experiences, including her role as a caregiver for her brother with special needs and her relationship with her stepfather. Sarah discusses how masking continued...2024-07-0538 min
UnmaskingIntroducing: Unmasking with Cindy and SarahSummary
In the first episode of the Unmasking Podcast, hosts Cindy and Sarah introduce themselves and explain the concept of unmasking. They discuss the logistics of the podcast, including the episode length and topics. They also share their backgrounds as licensed professional counselors and their personal experiences as parents of neurodivergent children. The hosts define masking as the act of concealing one's true emotions and thoughts in order to feel accepted by others. They explore the reasons why people mask and the impact it can have on mental health. The episode concludes with an...2024-07-0523 min