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Mary Tess

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True StrideTrue Stride235: The Power of Holding SpaceHave you ever been with someone who made you feel completely seen, heard, and safe — like you could just be your full self without any judgment? That’s the power of holding space, and that’s what we’re exploring today. Someone recently asked me what I meant when I used that phrase, and it got me thinking — how often do we really slow down, eliminate distractions, and give someone our full, undivided presence? In this episode, I’m sharing what holding space looks like in practice, how it’s shown up in my coaching and personal life, and how...2025-03-2709 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP195: Vacation Re-creationLife can be so repetitive. We find ourselves in routines that start to feel exhausting, robotic or soulless. If your life is feeling a bit draining lately, it might be a sign you need a vacation. This episode talks about taking breaks to recreate. I remember the first marathon I trained for was a few years after I had foot surgery. At the time, I was still gaining confidence about running. I managed to get my mileage to 13 miles, but a marathon is 26.2 miles. That’s when I decided to visit a podiatrist (who I still see to...2024-06-2017 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP194: Release Your Flip Flop PatternsHave you ever gotten so used to something that you forget it’s there? You may have habits in your life that come so naturally to you that you don’t give them a second thought. This episode talks about releasing your flip flop patterns. I had such a lovely morning. I treated myself to a 90-minute massage with an exceptional massage therapist. She is someone that I’ve worked with for a while, so she knows my body well. One of the things that I love about working with her is how she isn’t afraid to tell...2024-06-1318 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP193: Sacred Space & TimeLife moves so fast. It’s important to intentionally slow down and tap into a space that helps you find your way back to alignment. This episode talks about defining your sacred place and sacred time. I mentioned on an earlier podcast that I’m studying shamanic reiki to become a master teacher through a year-long apprenticeship. I love learning different healing modalities to support myself and others in healing. What’s wonderful is that I am learning ways to self-discover, remember and heal since shamanic reiki is about using nature and sacred space to honor what we alr...2024-06-0617 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP186: Know Your LimitsLet’s say you find yourself at an unexpected moment where things just feel out of alignment. Are you willing to speak up or walk away? This episode talks about why healthy boundaries are important and what it means to know your limits. I believe everything happens for a reason and life sends us signs. This week I had various conversations with different circles of friends, yet one of the common themes was this idea of setting healthy boundaries. The conversations reminded me of a phrase my aunt and I have used for decades: “I can stay in a...2024-04-1818 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP185: All of YOU is Welcome!You are a unique being. Every part of who you are radiates the gift of your presence. This episode talks about how all of you is welcome. I am part of a Shamanic Reiki Masters/Teachers Apprenticeship program. Basically, Reiki deals with energy healing and channeling life force energy to help clients heal themselves and come back into harmony. Shamanism is all about us reconnecting with Mother Nature and going within for our own spiritual insights. By practicing Shamanic Reiki, I create a sacred space for individuals to reground, rebalance and remember who they are. ...2024-04-1117 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP184: Closer to a "YES"What meaning do you give the word “No?” We often try to avoid hearing this word, but sometimes a “No” is what sends us in the right direction. This episode talks about getting closer to a “YES.” I spent most of my career working in sales organizations. I did semiconductor sales, telecom sales, media sales, and more in various roles. For the most part, I’ve been surrounded by sales people throughout my career. One of the gifts I got from my career in sales is the idea that every “No” brings us one step closer to a ”YES.” I...2024-04-0421 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP183: What Does "Feel Special" Mean?We are all unique in our own way. Almost nothing is more precious than feeling ‘“seen” and understood for our uniqueness. This episode talks about exploring what makes you feel special. I just received the most beautiful bouquet of kale mixed with red, yellow, and orange peppers. You may be questioning what you just read, but it’s correct. This bouquet was crafted with my unique personality in mind, which made me feel unbelievably special. I’m here to spend quality solo time with you for EP183’s Wise Walk as we discover our True Stride. It’s...2024-03-2817 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP182: What's Your Inner Voice Saying?Not all signs are grand or loud. Sometimes the clearest and most needed signs are hints. This episode talks about exploring what your inner voice is saying. Each one of us has an all-knowing inner voice. That inner voice guides us if we pay attention to it. It’ll even prompt us to do things that don’t completely make logical sense. You’ll usually feel a nudge of inspiration in a certain direction, which can lead to the next step you need. I’ve been getting a lot of inspirational nudges lately. I’m here to sp...2024-03-2117 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP181: Hula Hoop Health & HappinessWhen you’re feeling off balance, you may simply need a bit of fun and joy to get you back into your body. Where can you give yourself grace to do things that bring you joy without overextending yourself? This episode talks about hula hoop health and happiness. Over 11 weeks ago, I had a successful colon surgery. I’m still healing and just started working with a physical therapist. At first, I thought I’d get some momentum going for a speedy recovery. I’m making progress and need to wake up some of the muscles that are stil...2024-03-1416 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP180: Silly Over SeriousnessIt’s so easy to get caught up in wanting to feel responsible and productive. We can be those things while still finding ways to enjoy life in between all of our efforts. This episode talks about choosing silly over seriousness. This weekend, I got a call from my friend who never calls people (he’s a texter). I worried at first if something was wrong, then my friend shared the exciting news of having tickets to an awesome event described as the “Cirque du Soleil of baseball.” He shared that he wanted to go with someone he thoug...2024-03-0722 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP178: Freedom Remodeling Remodeling can be a messy process, yet it also carries the energy of release and rebirth. You get to let go of what no longer supports you and set up a more empowering scenario for yourself. This episode talks about freedom remodeling. On our last episode, I shared that I finally got the doctor’s “ALL CLEAR” to start physical therapy on my abdomen and pelvic floor after I had colon surgery. I’m realizing that physical therapy is a core component in healing. I’ll need to remodel the scar tissue that built up over the 8 weeks I was...2024-02-2217 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP176: What Are You Noticing?When we slow down and check our reality, we get to tap into our internal world and also check how we’re viewing our external world. The way we view our world influences the actions we choose. This episode talks about becoming more aware of what we notice. This past week I received a book in the mail as a gift from a friend who lives across the country. The book is called Noticing by Kobi Yamada and illustrated by Elise Hurst. I enjoyed a clear message given in the book: “What if you notice the good in y...2024-02-0816 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP175: Vulnerable Ebb & FlowMany of us don’t know what’s going on in each other’s lives. Even conversations with our closest friend don’t cover everything we’re handling. It’s not that people need to know everything, rather, it helps to be more intentional about sharing where we’re at in life. This episode talks about how to embrace a vulnerable ebb and flow. This past week I had the opportunity to visit with a very dear friend I’ve known since college. That visit was magical in so many different ways, mostly for the fact that we got to spend...2024-02-0118 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP171: Let Go, Feel FlowA shift in perspective usually gives you more space to receive new energy. That shift can include letting go of what used to work for you. This episode talks about where we can let go and let it flow. I can’t believe this podcast is over three years old. Each and every year around the New Year, I talk about my consistent practice of choosing a Word for the Year. I’ve had a Word for the Year since 2010, and it's served me to use “my word” as a guidepost to stay aligned in my choices and acti...2024-01-0413 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP170: Pressure Off, Success OnDistractions and responsibilities can take attention away from keeping up with what’s best for yourself. Take back your power by setting yourself up for success ahead of time. This episode talks about turning pressure OFF and success ON. If you’ve been listening for a while, you know I scheduled a colon surgery. What you may not know is that I’m recording some episodes beforehand so I can heal without worrying about whether I’ll have enough energy to do it later.  I’m here to spend quality solo time with you for EP170’s Wis...2023-12-2810 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP169: Schedule Self-CareAs humans, we need a chance to recharge and pull away from the stressors of life. What are the routines that gift you a sense of joy? Can you be more intentional about adding those moments into life? This episode talks about scheduling self-care. Yesterday, I went and got my hair cut. I forgot how relaxing, energizing, and therapeutic it is to get my hair cut. My amazing hairdresser takes time to wash my hair, style it, and truly care for how she handles my hair. I feel completely restored during and after the process. ...2023-12-2111 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP167: Less Hustle, More LoveWhen big life events show up, it’s easy to feel like the clock is ticking and there’s not enough time. In reality, what matters most is our energy and where we decide to place our energy. This episode talks about living with less hustle and more love. My mom did an amazing job raising four girls who were all super active. My sisters and I were always busy running around for sports and other hobbies, but my mom was really smart about helping us manage it all. She knew how to conserve energy for the thin...2023-12-0718 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP165: What Needs Healing?Many times the different ways we experience and move through the world are connected. Our senses, our emotions, our energy, and more are all connected as we challenge life’s journey. When we get worn down on the way, how can we collectively heal all these parts of us? This episode talks about figuring out what needs healing. On our previous episode, I shared that I’m scheduled to have surgery in mid-December. That decision feels aligned for me at this point, and part of that process involved organizing a trustworthy team to help me heal physically. 2023-11-2312 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP164: Relief, Regrets, or GainsWhat is the true impact of a choice? When we’re convinced of the path we must take, do regrets and gains still hold their meaning? This episode talks about relief, regrets, or gains. I was recently chatting with a friend who’s at a crossroad in life. He shared with me that he has a big career opportunity he has mixed emotions about. The opportunity gives him a chance to really make use of his skills, at the same time, he feels he’s already in a gig he likes. Now he’s asking himself if he shoul...2023-11-1616 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP163: Shift with SeasonsAll around us are signs of nature shedding the heat of summer to embrace the coolness of winter. Likewise, we’re also entering a new season in our own journey. This episode talks about how to shift with the seasons. The very brisk weather has officially made its appearance here in Florida, and it’s easy to feel that the seasons have changed. We can witness the changes in how people dress or how the trees look. Personally, I was reminded about the shifting seasons and their meaning metaphorically (and literally) when I recently learned about a Celt...2023-11-0914 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP162: Rites of PassageHave you ever made a promise to change your life? Sometimes that promise takes us on a journey where we’ll come out better on the other side. This episode talks about rites of passage. I’m super excited because next week I get to gather with my family to celebrate my nephew Finnigan’s Confirmation. It’s a religious and social milestone; similar to events like a bat/bar mitzvahs or quinceaneras. The occasion is a chance to fully commit to being in a community and belonging to something bigger. I’m here to spend qual...2023-11-0217 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP161: Process Decisions from Your HeartLife’s horizon holds many new chapters. It’s not always easy to choose which path we’ll follow, but we can evaluate our options so that we feel more aligned. This episode talks about how to process decisions from your heart. We all have those moments in life where we can feel or sense a big decision is brewing. We feel out of alignment somehow or we’re noticing signs and signals that a change is coming. It’s up to us to decide which way the change takes us, but ultimately, we know when we see a cros...2023-10-2625 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP160: Partners in GrowthSome things cannot be replicated or faked; like the supportive bond we have within the Striders community. While on our individual journeys we still wish each other well and support one another when we have the capacity. This episode talks about being partners in growth. There are so many things that I have grown to cherish about our time together. Each and every Thursday, we go on these Wise Walks, reflect, take time for ourselves, slow down, and check our reality. Then every once in a while, I also have the benefit of hearing from YOU. It’s...2023-10-1916 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP159: Detour WorthyNaturally, you could feel that having a direct path to your goals would be nice, but what about the times it’s not? Most people don’t mind taking the long way if it means fulfilling the end goal. Is there a goal in your life that’s worth a longer journey? This episode talks about finding what’s detour worthy. Good news: I’m home from the hospital! There were a couple rough days. I encountered a few challenges where I needed to self-advocate in the middle of trying to focus on recovering. We may go on a Wise...2023-10-1218 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP157: Embrace Your AnomaliesNo two people are the same, so of course, our traits and experiences are slightly different from each other too. What makes this interesting is that we all have something that makes us rare. This episode talks about embracing your anomalies. In 1998, I was living in California, training for an Alaska Anchorage marathon. My physical fitness was in top shape at the time. I had just finished a 20-mile long training run from San Francisco to Tiburon. I was actively playing soccer while training with the Leukemia Society’s marathon TNT team. My Leukemia Society coaches warned me...2023-09-2816 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP156: Signs, Needs & Actions“HEADS UP!” If you heard this from any direction, you’d immediately be on alert. You respond quickly to signs that seem loud or urgent, but there are quieter and seemingly neutral signs that call for just as much attention. This episode talks about signs, needs, and actions. I recently saw a video where two brothers were interacting with each other. The two are toddlers and the younger brother is upset about something while the older brother tries to figure it out. The younger isn’t saying exactly what’s wrong, so the older brother is observing the situat...2023-09-2117 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP155: Relationship Rides & IntuitionCommunication involves energy, especially in dynamics where you don’t speak. Learning to communicate within a dynamic can change the level of trust everyone develops. This episode talks about relationship rides and intuition. If you’ve been listening to this podcast for a little while, you know that I love horses. I started taking lessons a few years ago, and I’ve been riding on and off. These days I’m comfortable with my skill set. Each time I interact with the beautiful horses, I learn something new about myself. I’m here to spend quality so...2023-09-1417 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP154: Explore Your ReactionsSituations throughout life can stir a reaction from people. It could be a pleasant or unpleasant experience, but how you respond to your own reaction is more important. This episode talks about exploring your reactions. Last week, I had a lot of dental work so the dentist gave me numbing agents while there. As I was sitting in the chair, my heart started pounding, my hands were shaky, and I felt like I was freezing. I had a reaction to what was administered, and I didn’t know why until I looked into it later, finding out th...2023-09-0717 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP153: Celebration of YOUInside of you is a unique purpose and Heart Value that helps this world stay bright. Please celebrate YOU, your gifts, your contributions and your evolution towards what your life’s purpose means to you. This episode talks about setting intentions to honor and celebrate YOU. My birthday, August 31, is a time of great reflection for me. I spend time looking ahead and thinking about what intentions I’m going to set so that I can show up and be my best self. Not only for myself, but I want to show up for all the people that...2023-08-3131 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP152: Past Year ReflectionsTime is always moving. From year to year, what has changed the most for you? This episode talks about past year reflections. Next week, August 31 marks the day a healthy and happy 10 lb 13 oz baby girl was born… that was me. Every time my bday comes around, I get very introspective about the past year I lived. I also start to think about the year to come. It helps me hold myself accountable to wonder if I’m living intentionally, what are the big developments I made, and what do I need to change. I’m here...2023-08-2419 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP151: Align with Your LegacyYears from now people may not remember everything about you, but there will always be certain memories about you that leave a lasting impression. This episode talks about being aligned with your legacy. I was catching up with a friend who knows someone that recently accepted a professorship at a college. When I heard the subject of the class she’s teaching, I thought it sounded so progressive and impressive for the college kids taking the course. It’s a class all about legacy, which will include an assignment where the students write their obituary to reflect what...2023-08-1717 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP150: Is It Fine?You have habits you do without questioning them. If you knew a habit was holding you back from fully expressing your thoughts, would you challenge yourself to be vulnerable and face it? This episode talks about learning to express your true feelings instead of saying, “It’s fine.” For the past two months, I’ve been paying attention to how often I use the phrase, “It’s fine.” I’ve also paid attention to how much my loved ones say it in conversations and in which scenarios they usually say it. There’s something in me that has a heightened s...2023-08-1017 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP149: When Lightning StrikesLighting strikes symbolize many things. Among them, the act of nature can represent the spark of an idea or it can represent a release of energy. This episode talks about how releasing and managing stress is similar to when lighting strikes.  This past weekend, I traveled with my parents to New Jersey so we could celebrate my niece’s wedding. I have so many beautiful memories that left me beaming. The time surrounded by laughter, love, and light was time well spent, but I’m also exhausted from all the fun and the long travel. You wouldn’t belie...2023-08-0317 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP148: Music & Mood MindfulnessWhether we’re happy or sad, music helps us channel what we’re feeling. It takes us into a moment of reflection, memory, or imagination. This episode talks about music and mood mindfulness. I’m feeling so energized after going to a concert with my mom. We had a great time watching Michael Franti & Spearhead rock out and share their music. It’s not just the tunes that made the experience awesome, it’s the message. Much of their music is filled with positive and encouraging words. I’m here to spend quality solo time with you for...2023-07-2717 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP147: Move with Love & LightThe world is a beautiful place. It’s so beautiful that there’s tons of wonderful experiences you have yet to discover. This episode talks about how to move through life with love and light. A friend recently confided in me that she was in a funk for the past several months. In the last few weeks, she made a commitment to herself to shift her energy. One of the ways she’s trying to do this is to get more involved with her community. She’s also trying things outside her comfort zone. When she was sharing...2023-07-2016 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP145: Celebrate Your WayHolidays are beautiful ways to commemorate and remember milestones, but what if you want to do things differently. We walk around with certain beliefs and traditions since we never thought it could ever be any other way. This episode talks about allowing yourself to celebrate your way. This week we have America’s Independence Day, the 4th of July, and I was thinking a lot about this holiday since I evolved how I choose to celebrate it. Honestly, the different ways we choose to celebrate milestones evolve with us as people. I started to wonder things like: Wh...2023-07-0614 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP143: Lifted By LightSometimes you run into moments that lower your vibe. We don’t have to let those things define the vibrations we know are available to us. Give yourself permission to radiate. You are meant for something higher and better. This episode talks about how to be lifted by light. Over 5 years ago, I had a traumatic experience that awakened me. When I look back now, I can have this conversation with you in this full, radiant, light energy, but back then it was really hard on me. I entered a negative, dark space. I share this story to...2023-06-2215 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP142: Magnify What MattersIt’s true that not everything deserves our attention. Sometimes our focus becomes blurry, but we can get back on track if we remind ourselves of the important things in life. This episode talks about how to magnify what matters. I am the proud new owner of reading glasses. I have reached this milestone of life where I need support to read menus and other tasks. It’s a whole new world of wearing and carrying around glasses. This made me reflect on the way I view the world and how our vision of our True Stride can...2023-06-1517 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP141: Be Present, Not PerfectPerfectionism is a tricky trait. We can convince ourselves that it increases our worth without noticing how it can drain our zest for life. This episode talks about being present, not perfect. I worked in Corporate America for decades and had a great gig. Early in my career, I was a bit of a perfectionist. I really worked hard to make any project the absolute best it could be. I had a vision, and I thoughtfully followed through with it to make that vision a reality. That high level of performance came with an unnecessary set back...2023-06-0817 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP139: What Vows Inspire You?Fully committing to an intention shows deep care. Stepping into a declaration sparks a new chapter in your life. This episode talks about vows that inspire you. We’re quickly approaching the time of year where it seems like weddings are upon us. I know I have two weddings this summer, and I’m so excited for these individuals. I look forward to hearing them say their vows to one another and to the community that will gather together to support them in the promises they’re declaring. Thinking about the sincerity of vows has me reflecting on the...2023-05-2517 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP137: Your Best Advocate is YOU!!People speak from what they’ve seen in their life or what they’ve accepted as true. Being open-minded can be useful, but there are times when people share things that are true in their experience and not yours. This episode talks about why your best advocate is YOU. I recently went through a medical situation where I needed to self-advocate. It reminded me of the importance of advocating for yourself and how speaking up can shift the outcome. We don’t have to take what the world hands to us. Honestly, we can choose what aligns to us...2023-05-1117 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP135: Clearing & Getting ClearThere isn’t enough room to appreciate life’s present moment if our minds are cluttered with distractions. What are you doing to stay away from distractions and stay in alignment? This episode talks about clearing and getting clear. We have the ability to feel energized and happy with each and every step that we take. It’s possible, but we also know it’s not a constant feeling in life. That’s okay since any lows or moments of un-alignment remind us of what’s really important, along with reminding us of the freedom to choose again. We st...2023-04-2715 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP132: Spring New Life & ConnectionsNew beginnings help you refresh your life. Experiences and environments become more vibrant when you give yourself space to restart. Where will you plant new seeds for yourself? This episode encourages you to spring new life and connections. It’s finally Spring! I love this time of year where it feels like anything is possible. We’re getting out of the cold and looking forward to new opportunities. Like nature budding and blooming around us, we’re full of life. I’m here to spend quality solo time with you for EP132’s Wise Walk as we disc...2023-04-0616 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP131: What Are You Consuming?Food provides the nutrients for us to show up fully in life. What we eat impacts our energy, our focus, and our physical body. The same can be said for the media and experiences we ingest through our five senses. This episode talks about noticing what you’re consuming. My first recollection of reading the ingredients on food was during my childhood at a restaurant with my family and becoming aware that my grandma had an allergy. My grandma needed to be careful about what she ate in case it had soy or soybean oil. This makes me...2023-03-3016 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP127: Reset with LoveCan you change your mindset to reset your experience with love? Taking a step back, and coming from a place of love, allows us to view situations from a different angle. We can usually find an angle that benefits us and works in our favor. This episode talks about how to reset with love. I want to start by acknowledging the beautiful, heartfelt, and healing emails and feedback that I received from you, my fellow Striders. I’m so grateful you took the time to reach out and share your takeaways from the previous episode. It was ni...2023-03-0217 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP121: Cherish Soulful EnergiesWho in your life gives you energy? If you haven’t seen them in a while, is there a way to reconnect? This episode talks about how to cherish soulful energies. My three sisters, my mom, and I got to spend time together for a weekend. We’re a close and big family, so I love when we have a chance to see each other. It’s beautiful that we can still connect and reminisce about life over the years. We can be ourselves and understand each other’s energies. I’m here to spend quality so...2023-01-1916 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP120: Share Appreciation & Inspire ConnectionWe as people always seek opportunities to feel connected and find commonality. It doesn’t matter if you’re super outgoing, really shy, or somewhere in between, everyone likes to feel welcomed. This episode talks about how we can inspire human connection in our life. I recently got back from a magical trip to New York City! Thinking back on over twenty years of living all over the area, it was fun to visit again and buzz around the neighborhoods that hold so many memories for me. I got to see what changed and what stayed the same...2023-01-1217 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP119: Retreat and Renew in New YearBefore you run full speed ahead into the New Year, take one more moment of rest. You’ll need to care for yourself properly and plan rest to show up as your best self. This episode talks about how we retreat and renew in the New Year. I’m so excited for 2023! This year represents a clean slate. It’s full of possibilities, and we can go anywhere from this point. As we embrace this reset, we get another chance to go inwards and remind ourselves of what really matters before setting out on this year’s journey...2023-01-0514 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP117: Wrap & Unwrap SurprisesSpontaneity and serendipity are like gifts in our lives. They represent the intersection of our True Stride and life’s surprises. All we need to do is be open to the moment. This episode talks about getting ready to wrap and unwrap surprises. As we approach the close of 2022, I decided to take a walk down memory lane. I had a lot of events happen this year that added to my personal growth, my joy, and my wisdom. I started to look at pictures from this past year and connect with the whole set of experiences that ha...2022-12-2217 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP116: What Awareness or Shifts Are You Gaining?Sometimes we feel we have an answer until a moment, situation, or new information prompts us to change our mind. It’s like when you change your restaurant order after seeing a delicious plate delivered to another table. Can you playfully laugh at your evolution as you choose again? This episode talks about what awareness or shifts you gain as you evolve. The holidays are upon us, and I am having a blast! This past weekend, I had the honor of celebrating and spending time with two different groups of friends. I went to a birthday celebration an...2022-12-1522 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP114: The Practice of BeingThere’s no need to rush. You have absolute permission to slow down and check your reality. Taking time to go inward helps you process perceptions with a new lens and stay aware of what really matters. This episode talks about going inward, creating stillness, and practicing being so you naturally foster more creativity, bliss, and intelligence. Personally, I’m committed to establishing a consistent meditation practice, but there are days when it feels like one more task to remember. I trust that the more I practice, the more natural and second nature it will become. The bene...2022-12-0120 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP113: What's Good and Harvest Ready?A harvest is an opportunity to reap what we grew, nurtured and cultivated. During this time of harvest, we give thanks and recognize what you brought to life from the past season or year. This episode talks about looking for what’s good and ready to harvest in your life. Thanksgiving is a symbol of appreciation and abundance. I’m happy to celebrate what we planted, harvested, and gathered as we give gratitude for what we have. There’s a sense of joy and togetherness in sharing what we fostered and stacked up in our Value Vault this p...2022-11-2424 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP112: Go Inward & Live IntentionallyEvery now and then your energy and attention need to regroup. You can become so busy with the world that you get slightly off track. Checking back in with yourself sets the tone for returning to your True Stride. This episode talks about taking time to go inward and live intentionally. We are approaching the end of the year. For me, I always take time to go inward to reflect on my journey in the past year. I’m happy with my choices as I look at this year since I lived intentionally despite surprises along the wa...2022-11-1722 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP111: Celebrate Your Commitment to YouThere’s always signs from the universe coming in and out of our lives, and if we slow down to pay attention, we have an easier time catching them. The more aligned you are with what lights you up, the more you’ll realize the power of your dedication. This episode talks about celebrating your commitment to you. Timing is moving fast. This fall brings the 1 Year Anniversary of publishing my first book Heart Value. I officially published the book on 11/11, which holds a special meaning. As I think back to the significance of 11/11 as a date, and...2022-11-1021 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP110: Your Path Without ComparisonWe can get caught up in wishful thinking when we enter a crisis. We compare ourselves to those around us wishing things could be different. In the middle of wishing, we can’t know what someone else’s path actually looks like and we can’t appreciate our own path. This episode talks about embracing your path without comparison. A friend is going through a major life change similar to a situation I had in my journey. This lovely friend shared on social media that she is dealing with a health crisis. After seeing her post, I reache...2022-11-0326 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP109: Be YOU and Express Your NeedsYou learn more about yourself every day. The knowledge you have of yourself and your needs is what helps you build a more aligned experience of life. When we know ourselves, we can share it lovingly with confidence. This episode talks about knowing how to be you and express your needs. I had a dear friend stay with me for a visit. We see each other once or twice a year, but we remain fully invested in each other’s lives. That’s how our beautiful friendship evolved over the years. During the visit, my friend opened up a...2022-10-2719 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP108: What's Your Recovery Plan?You have so much good to offer the world. You can offer it when you are at your best. How can you get back to your best after life gets complicated? This episode talks about building a recovery plan after life’s disruptions. I have loved ones actively pursuing what lights them up, like doing sports they enjoy. Their passion led to injuries that they’ll need to do physical therapy. The process requires time and dedication to recover from the damage. When you think about it, emotions need the same care and attention. How often do we o...2022-10-2024 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP107: Run Toward Vs. Away FromWe cannot stride forward if we fixate on the past, fear, or anything we’re trying to run away from. Holding our gaze on what we are running towards gives us that extra push to face life boldly. This episode talks about running towards life instead of away from life. Around this time, communities in Florida faced Hurricane Ian. This includes my own area, and I had to make many decisions before the storm even came. At first, it was unclear how significant the storm would be, so I contemplated how to prepare. The forecasts did not ge...2022-10-1328 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP106: Shift from Identity Pressure to PeaceIf you want to learn how to release and start anew with ease, simply look at nature. Seasonal changes can inspire how we re-engage and refresh our identity in new life phases. This episode talks about shifting from identity pressure to peace. Recently, I received messages from two Striders going through major transitions in their lives. One Strider is selling their long-standing, successful law practice. Another Strider is a stay-at-home mom preparing to go back into the workforce. Huge transitions can come with uncertainty and confusion. I could feel from their messages that they are exploring clarity...2022-10-0622 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP105: Reuniting & RememberingAs we go through life, there are moments we like to remember, or we occasionally circle back to situations. What happens when years or decades pass? This episode talks about the feelings of reuniting and remembering. This weekend I have a high school reunion. It’s been several decades. I went to a catholic high school in Delaware that was small and intimate, graduating with a class of 90 individuals. Thinking back, I played volleyball, softball, and was on the bowling team. I enjoyed my time there, even the times I got in trouble. My high school years ga...2022-09-2920 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP104: NO is EmpoweringA simple “No” is all you need. It can feel awkward sometimes, but what people don’t realize is that “No” can be freeing and thoughtful. Sometimes you have to say “No” or you’ll be giving less than what you’re capable of being. That’s not good for you or anyone else. This episode talks about how saying “No” is empowering. Empowerment is a feeling of being aligned with our intentions. In life, there are moments where you need to say “No” to stay in tune with your authentic self. You communicate a clear intention with “No” that tells people...2022-09-2216 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP103: Space to Feel the FeelsSome sensations and emotions remain with us long after the moment passes. Are you allowing yourself to release whatever is stored in your body, heart, and mind? This episode talks about giving yourself space to feel the feels. The 21st Anniversary of September 11th recently happened. I’m actually recording this episode on 9/11/22 after commemorating this significant day at the race hosted by the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. It’s my first time participating at the St. Augustine, FL location around new people. During the event I shared laughter and tears among the community of people gathered for...2022-09-1526 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP101: Celebrate the Surprises of LifeSometimes things don’t go as expected. Yet, there are unexpected surprises that give us more than we imagine. This episode talks about celebrating the surprises of life. I’m feeling extremely energized and happy this week. Why? It’s my birthday week! Yes, I completed another trip around the sun. I find myself in this new year where I get to carve out another chapter of my story. It makes me reflect on how far I came and how far I can go. I’m here to spend quality solo time with you for EP101’s...2022-09-0116 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP98: The Power of Your PenEvery individual adds a unique flair to this world we share. Your thoughts, words, and expressions deserve to be celebrated. It’s time to intentionally set a practice of documenting and acknowledging your authentic self. This episode talks about the power of your pen. This past week, I’m continuing to purge and generally clean up loose ends. In the middle of this, I discovered an old journal entry tucked in the pages of an old book I swiped through. It’s from around a decade ago during my divorce. As I read it, I recalled the relati...2022-08-1122 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP96: Express What You WantYou are going to attract more of what you want when you are naturally standing in your truth. In those moments of sharing what you truly feel and think, you discover that your uniqueness does not need to suffer. This episode talks about expressing what we want. I became a certified Stand Up Paddle Board yoga instructor. It was an intensive weekend but a lot of fun. It gave me great exposure to different people and how they do yoga. Since I was around people that I completely don’t know, I took the opportunity to connect wi...2022-07-2823 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP93: Energy Attracts EnergyDo you know anyone who seems to always get lucky? They may not be as lucky as you think. In life, the energy you give the world is often times the energy you see and experience from the world. This episode talks about how energy attracts energy. I spent a crazy week filled with highs and lows. One of the highs was that I caught up with a good friend for the first time in a while. He’s a Strider, so we spoke a bit about the podcast, and then we started talking about life. Our co...2022-07-0718 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP92: Clarity & Space for What MattersOur bodies, our minds, and our emotions function at a higher level when we are well rested. That’s why we need to be careful of excessive planning. This episode talks about finding the clarity and space for what really matters. I’m back from vacation! I went on vacation last week with my family and we had a successful bonding time. Being with all my loved ones was very memorable. I was able to have tons of fun doing things like family dinners and walking on the beach with my mom and sisters. With all the good...2022-06-3020 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP91: What Vacation Means to YouIf you could imagine time off, what would you be doing? Where would you go? Who would you ask to join you, if anyone? What would you hope to experience? This episode talks about what vacation means to you. I am super excited for a vacation with my family. We are all heading out to stay under the same roof for some time away from everyday life. It’s been a while since we all got together for a family trip. What’s really different this time around is that I’m not planning everything out as I norm...2022-06-2319 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP90: Support For Your Brave ActsSometimes you need a buddy to exchange ideas and energy with. A buddy can help us with accountability and encouragement, or simply be a sounding board when we need to get our ideas and problems out. This episode talks about where in your life the power of support fuels your brave acts. On the way back from hauling horses, I led the navigation from a separate car instead of being right beside my aunt. My aunt mentioned that she felt braver when we were next to each other, and her words made me think about the power...2022-06-1619 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP89: Honor Your Heartfelt IntentionsLife (in general) is about noticing, paying attention, and connecting with who we are and what truly matters as we expose ourselves to different situations. The more we understand how our intentions create our experiences from moment to moment, the more we can intentionally create experiences in ways that support our overall well being. This episode talks about how to honor your heartfelt intentions. I recently taught yoga for the first time in a long while, and honestly, it felt great. I did feel nervous before starting since there was no way to tell how it would...2022-06-0923 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP86: What Will You 86?After a while, you realize something is simply not working in life. The beautiful part about that is the opportunity to remove, throw out, release, or refuse service to whatever is no longer serving you. This episode talks about choosing what to 86 in your life. The phrase “86 it” has so many origin stories. No matter which origin story you hear, the common theme relates to something no longer being served or no longer being considered. Using the term “86” is like acknowledging what’s not right for us and our intention to let it go. What do we want to 86...2022-05-1910 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP85: What Shocks Your System into AlignmentYou are magnetic. When you follow your True Stride, you naturally create room for what is emotionally and energetically aligned to you. You attract what’s aligned, but falling out of alignment can happen. At those times, you could accidentally fall in contact with experiences that cause a short circuit in your journey. This episode talks about the moments that shock your life into alignment. Remember my 9-day trip of hauling horses across the country? I have a story I didn’t mention about how my trip went. I told the story to my friend, and the reac...2022-05-1216 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP84: How Death Springs New LifeLoss and transition is not always easy. There’s constantly these checkpoint moments like figurative “deaths” that occur in life. It can be when you end a career, end a friendship, have kids moving out, have a job switch, or more. Yet, from that is an opportunity of birthing something new. This episode talks about how death springs new life. My 9-day trip of hauling horses across the country was a very successful trip. Now that the horses are moved to start a new life, they can be in an environment that’s good for them and supports...2022-05-0523 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP83: Where Do You Go From Here?When we have our lows in life, we can actually use them to elevate to the next level. Since we don’t want to stay in the low for too long, how can we gain awareness to channel what feels aligned? This episode talks about accepting our low and moving in a new direction starting from this moment. I’m hauling horses across the country currently! Getting away is my chance to decompress, process and gain awareness. I’ll be going with my Aunt Teeny, and I’ll be releasing all the distractions of life to focus on me wh...2022-04-2814 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP82: How Lows Invite ExpansionWhy do we experience pain in our life? There can be physical pain or emotional pain, but either way we feel the pain on a deeper level in the middle of difficult times. This episode talks about how lows invite expansion. Getting truthful about feelings is a vulnerable experience. I invite you to come along as we decompress and digest embracing the lows of our life as an opportunity to expand. It’s truly a chance to open our hearts. I’ll be sharing how I am managing the recent death of my aunt and hono...2022-04-2119 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP81: Lead with Energy not ExpectationsDepending on the situation, expectations can weigh us down, surface feelings of insecurity or disappointment can drain our ability to be fully present from our heart-center experiences. This episode talks about how to lead with energy not expectations. Not long ago, two good friends came to talk with me about exploring relationships and love. They are thinking about what’s the best way to go about it. I personally have plenty of experience with dating, so this gave me a chance to reflect on what I learned about developing heart-centered relationships that feel aligned and mutually supportive....2022-04-1421 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP 80: How to Laugh, Refocus, and SimplifyAre there moments in your life where you waste time on something that could be easy if you were a bit more organized and aligned with your vision? This episode talks about how to laugh, refocus, and simplify your alignment. Honestly, I’m laughing at myself a little. I’m here encouraging Striders to create alignment with everything they want to manifest, but I can tell you I still have days where I find myself out of alignment. That’s why following your True Stride is a journey. Every conversation we have together is helping us build the re...2022-04-0712 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP79: Evolve to Your Highest GoodWe don’t always have a plan that is going to be executed in a seamless way. Any misstep or unexpected change is an opportunity to align or realign with what matters most. This episode talks about the path to evolve to your highest good. This is the second year that I am participating in the 100 Day Project. During my journey, I chose to create affirmations and reflection questions so that I can be more intentional and hold space in my heart. As I picked a card for the day, I got a simple, but powerful question: Where am I...2022-03-3118 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP78: Listening to the Beat of Your HeartNo matter how quickly or forcefully the world moves, we have the ability to slow down and check our reality. When we stand tall, shoulders back, and drop into our heart, we can set the pace of our True Stride. This episode talks about listening to the beat of your heart. Striders, I focus on giving quality content in how the podcast is presented. I curate the messaging of our weekly Wise Walks, but I also work with a support system for the technical side of podcasting. Today’s episode is inspired by an email I got from the vendor I...2022-03-2418 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP70: Keys to Your Own Wise Walk ReflectionYour senses are constantly absorbing information. Externally, you try to make sense of the energy around you, pulling you, and requesting your attention. Internally, you try to balance and navigate thoughts, feelings, and beliefs that you experience. You don’t need to absorb all the information presented to you. This episode talks about having the keys to your own Wise Walk reflection. Every time you hear the phrase “Wise Walk”, what do you think of? It dawned on me that we could talk about the meaning of our Wise Walks with more context. Actually, one of our fellow...2022-01-2712 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP69: How Intention Creates Our Reality with Leigh FarrowWhat is possible with 10 minutes a day for 100 days or a word intention? What might you experience, create or receive? Imagine if you had a chance to create each day, and transformed the way you connect with the world. This episode talks about how committed intention can change your worldview with today’s special guest Leigh Farrow. This year feels like a clean slate and full of possibilities. People are still pivoting in life, but finally becoming stronger, more resilient, and more comfortable with processing and navigating their reality. When we take time to set our intentions an...2022-01-2056 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP68: How a Navy Seal Mindset Supports Your Life with William BranumAre you fully addressing yourself as you are? When you can take a look at your habits, your challenges, and your truth, you can conquer what lies ahead of you. Like a Navy Seal, you can perform no matter the resistance that comes your way. This episode talks about how a Navy Seal mindset supports your life with today’s special guest William Branum. Health and wellness is extremely important, mentally, physically and environmentally. In my own journey, I constantly seek what will support my overall well being, even if I must consciously choose to explore options ou...2022-01-131h 15True StrideTrue StrideEP67: How Your Mindset Enhances Your ExperiencesAs 2022 starts up, take time to think through what you really want this year and what you are trying to manifest. No matter how the year unfolds, you can navigate anything you weren’t expecting. You only have to slow down, check your reality, and open your heart and mind to new possibilities. This episode talks about how your mindset can enhance your experiences. I challenged you to choose a Word of the Year. Have you chosen one yet? A Word of the Year gives us an anchor that mirrors what can support us to be the be...2022-01-0615 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP66: Practicing Reflection and IntentionLet’s reflect on all that last year offered, and let’s envision a new year bringing us more alignment. This episode talks about practicing reflection and intention. Around this time, I’m feeling energized and happy as we wrap up the year. Are you excited for next year? A reflection process helps ground me in what my heart feels, including how I am in alignment or if I’m not in alignment with the life I want to design. Learning to be present with that awareness of alignment allows us to make new choices and take differen...2021-12-3021 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP65: What Gifts Are You Ready to Receive?Are there times you feel resistance to receiving gifts, or do you ever feel unworthy of receiving gifts? This episode talks about consciously reminding yourself that you are worthy without doing anything special. There’s a story about gifts, occasions, and worthiness that I feel called to share for this episode. Honestly, it’s a story from years ago that I always find myself telling since it’s such a good way to shift perspectives. Let me tell you what happened when I thought I was not ready to receive a beautiful gift from a friend. I’m...2021-12-2311 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP64: How to Align with Your Word for the YearIf you want a powerful compass to guide you through 2022, choose a word for the year that’ll remind you on where to go. This episode talks about how to align with your Word for the Year. Lately, I’m reflecting on what word will embody the upcoming year, 2022. Since 2010, I chose a word every year to anchor me as I move forward. It’s like a mirror that I want to see in myself, and that I want to carry with me in everything that I do. Choosing a word allows me to explore the intention I’m cr...2021-12-1626 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP62: How Space and Focus Nurtures GrowthLife can get so busy that it can seem that it’s happening without us, but we should remember that space and focus create intentional evolution. This episode talks about how space and focus nurtures growth. Over the holiday, I had time to see virtual friends I made during the pandemic, high school friends, my old English teacher, and of course my friends and family in person! I had a long drive and decided to make the occasion even more special by bringing my dog Trooper along. It was Trooper’s first long trip! I’m here...2021-12-0219 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP61: How Are Your Thoughts Creating Intentional Experiences?When you crave a feeling, idea, or thought, you are more likely to seek or replicate that thing in the world around you. This episode talks about understanding how thoughts create intentional experiences. Happy Thanksgiving! I hope you all are spending the holidays in whichever way helps you tune into your Joy Frequency. Personally, I’m traveling to visit my family for the holidays. For right now, I’m here to spend quality solo time with you for EP61’s Wise Walk as we discover our True Stride. I can tell you that I’m excited...2021-11-2507 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP60: As a Creator, How Do You Nurture and Restore?Creations blossom as a result of our contributions and our efforts. Every time we share our creations, it’s time to celebrate our impact and recharge ourselves. This episode talks about managing ourselves as we move through the creation process. Let’s really reflect on what you’re creating in your life, and what I’m creating in my life, and this idea of us being creators. We’re all creators, regardless of what we are creating, doing, or being. With simply our presence on this Earth, we are creating within ourselves and interacting with the things around us...2021-11-1820 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP59: A Day of Remembrance and IntentionsI’m feeling giddy about the future. Do you know that feeling? I look back on the amazing nuances of my journey, and think that 11/11 matches what this moment means to me. Today, this episode reflects a day of remembrance and intentions. I’m choosing to start two new practices for myself on this date of 11/11. From here on out, I continue to honor Veterans and take time to clearly set intentions around my Heart Value as 11/11 is also the publication date of my first book. I almost can’t believe the time is already here, and that I...2021-11-1119 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP58: What Lights You Up with Ryan CwickWhat if you release the idea that you had for the life that you or others expected for yourself? Doing what lights you up will conquer any expectations without even meaning to and is ultimately the best way to be kind to yourself. Ryan Cwick, our guest for EP58’s Wise Walk, likes to take on the world with the intention of spreading love and kindness. He doesn’t back down from a challenge, and I admire how he views the world. We both share the mindset that it’s important to do what lights you up. ...2021-11-0454 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP56: What's Possible in One Year with Leigh FarrowWhat daily habits elevate your Joy Frequency? How can you cultivate authentic joy? The truth is that you have the freedom to choose, the freedom to choose again, and the power to connect with others in a circle of trust. Now is a good moment for a Wise Walk. On the True Stride podcast, we take a Wise Walk to slow down and check our reality. True Stride is that feeling you get when you’re aligned in your heart with all that you do, and you feel energized and happy with each and every step that yo...2021-10-2153 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP55: Ways to Herd Up and Face Your Storm with Tim DouglasFrom the earliest signs of civilization, nature is observed and used as analogies to teach life lessons. A popular example is the analogy to the “storms” of life. Do you find yourself in the midst of a storm? How do you face your storms? Now is a good moment for a Wise Walk. On the True Stride podcast, we take a Wise Walk to slow down and check our reality. True Stride is that feeling you get when you’re aligned in your heart with all that you do, and you feel energized and happy with each and ev...2021-10-1442 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP54: How to Make a Profit Doing What You Love with Susanne MarigaInvesting in a business or project requires a full process with components and aspects that may exceed our original cost expectation. You never know what you’re fully getting into until you walk through the experience. How can entrepreneurs stabilize life, business, and abundance? Now is a good moment for a Wise Walk. On the True Stride podcast, we take a Wise Walk to slow down and check our reality. True Stride is that feeling you get when you’re aligned in your heart with all that you do, and you feel energized and happy with each and...2021-10-0734 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP52: How to Support Your Body and Energy Flow with Dr. Melissa JordanIs your body fully aligned? Is your energy fluid? Are you taking time to support your body and your energy flow, and really encourage your vital life force to support you in all your doing on a consistent basis, or are you waiting until you’re in crisis mode? Now is a good moment for a Wise Walk. On the True Stride podcast, we take a Wise Walk to slow down and check our reality. True Stride is that feeling you get when you’re aligned in your heart with all that you do, and you feel ener...2021-09-2329 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP49: How to Become a Minimalist from the Inside Out with Dana Knox WrightThroughout life, unsolicited expectations and identity beliefs influence us. The key is to carefully evaluate if those things are true or worth keeping to prevent clinging onto things that drain us. On this Wise Walk, Mary Tess Rooney and Dana Knox Wright take a moment to slow down and check our reality to honor your choice to stop showing up in ways that don’t serve you and let go. Where in your life do you hold onto fear, and where in your life do you need to release things in order to invite in the experiences th...2021-09-0237 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP46: When to Say Yes to Feel Purposefully Aligned With Don KhouriWhen there is so much to do, our brains can have us feeling stuck and blank on what to do next. With the right tools and mindset, we are able to regroup to get back on our True Stride.  Actions that are truly aligned with our goals keep us purposely productive. In this episode, I chat with Don Khouri about productivity processes and when to say “Yes”, so that we can continue to choose actions that serve us in our journey.  Don Khouri contributes to the world as a speaker, author, and coach who helps execut...2021-08-1229 minTrue StrideTrue StrideEP34: What Energizes Your Heart?Since our last episode, I took a road trip to Miami with my parents to celebrate my nieces’ graduations. Two of my nieces, Krissy and Dana, graduated from the University of Miami with Nursing Degrees. My niece Lauren graduates from the Mayo Clinic this coming weekend as a Doctor, and she is super excited to start her residency that will ultimately lead her into the field of Neuroscience. We could not be more proud of them, and it was an amazing weekend. These three ladies are so inspiring, and it will be fun to watch them as they pursue ca...2021-05-2020 minOngoing Comicbook Discussion PodcastOngoing Comicbook Discussion PodcastMary Shelley: Monster Hunter (with John Babe) - Day 3 of 31 Days of HorrorWelcome to OCD’s 3rd of 31 days of horror! Each day for 31 days, Tess is bringing you spooky, fun, and witchy horror comic and comic movie reviews! Today, Tess is joined by her husband, John Babe, to discuss Adam Glass and Olivia Cuartero-Briggs’ “Mary Shelley: Monster Hunter.” For nearly two centuries, scholars have wondered how on earth Mary Shelley, a nineteen-year-old girl, was able to conjure one of the most frightening and enduring horror stories of all-time: Frankenstein. But with the recent discovery of Mary Shelley’s secret memoir, the truth is finally revealed: Mary Shelley didn’t just write Frankenstein...2020-10-0347 min