Shows
Balance SharedLet's Gossip About Dr. BirdIntroduction to EpisodeWhat does it look like when someone who actually lives the consequences of policy decides to run for office?In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Melissa Bird — a social worker, mother, small business owner, and proud descendant of the Shivwits Band of Paiutes who is running for Congress in Oregon’s 4th District. We talk about the exact moment she knew she couldn’t sit on the sidelines anymore, how lived experience shapes leadership, and why grassroots, community-rooted politics matter now more than ever.This conversation isn’t about poli...
2025-12-3040 min
Balance SharedHealing through Art and Reiki with Lea K. TawdNotesHealing through Art and Reiki with Lea K. TawdIn this episode, Michelle interviews Lea K. Tawd, an artist and Reiki master who has found her purpose in inspiring and healing through art and Reiki. Lea discusses her journey, how she integrates Reiki into her art, and the overarching impact of this practice. She also shares her experiences with creative blocks, her book 'Creativity Unstuck,' and the transformative potential of Reiki in healing and personal growth. Lea talks about her personal connection to the divine feminine and how it influences her artwork, providing...
2024-10-0232 min
Balance SharedExplore Feng Shui for 2022 with Jillian RothschildIn this episode, the host interviews Jillian Rothschild-Scholar, a classically trained Feng Shui expert with over a decade of experience. Jillian discusses how her purpose is to help people clear confusion over major life questions, enabling them to confidently move forward. She explains the principles of classical Feng Shui and shares her journey into the field. The discussion includes the intricacies of the Chinese New Year, including the differences between the lunar and solar calendars and their significance. Jillian delves into Chinese astrology, the importance of the 'four pillars of destiny,' and how these elements can guide individuals...
2024-09-2533 min
Balance SharedPreparing for Purpose: Insights and Stories from Michelle’s GuestsReviving the Podcast: Unveiling Non-Linear Paths to PurposeMichelle Lasley recounts the origins of her podcast, which started just before the pandemic. The podcast delves into people's stories, highlighting their non-linear journeys to finding their purpose. Season three, airing after a three-year hiatus beginning September 25th, will focus on these circuitous paths. Future seasons, including an anticipated season on identity, are also hinted at. This episode previews content to prepare listeners for the 2022 Chinese New Year and promises insightful educational stories.00:00 Introduction: The Birth of a Podcast00:06 The Inspiration Behind the Podcast
2024-09-1101 min
Balance SharedThe Power of Plant Based Diets with Jeff Hahler & Bev MartinHi everyone! A note for this episode- due to some technical difficulties this episode ends rather abruptly.Introduction to EpisodeJeff Hahler & Bev Martin explain their reasons for being vegans as well as living a healthy life doing so.Podcast Episode SummaryJeff Hahler & Bev Martin both live their lives as vegans eschewing any products made from animals. They break down their path to veganism and reasoning both for personal and moral reasons ranging from the health benefits of focusing on a plant based diet as well as the ethical treatment...
2021-08-1128 min
Balance SharedEmpowering Careers with Sudeshna SenIntroduction to EpisodeSudeshna Sen discusses what to focus on to both grow your career while also connecting with what is important in your life. We dive into common pitfalls in moving forward in your profession, ways of thinking of women in (or not in) the workforce, and how to forge your own path.Podcast Episode SummarySudeshna Sen is a a career strategist and productivity geek who talks about careers, business, and everything in between. She runs a website and blog called The Abundance Psyche where she hopes to help people move...
2021-08-0436 min
Balance SharedDay Trading with Confidence with Marina VillatoroIntroduction to EpisodeMarina "The Trader Chick" Villatoro talks about how she built confidence and how she wants to share that confidence in day trading for anyone interested.Podcast Episode SummaryMarina "The Trader Chick" Villatoro is an entrepreneur, Ted X organizer, travel writer, professional day trader, and mother. She teaches beginners how to day trade and build their confidence in this complicated environment. She does this with courses on how to understand the ins and outs, what to trade, and why a strategy is important.She also discusses her move...
2021-07-2133 min
Balance SharedGetting in Touch with Nature with Cece HeartIntroduction to EpisodeCece Heart talk about building community and sharing hope in safeguarding our planet and becoming empowered, healthy, and happy denizens of our Earth.Podcast Episode SummaryCece Heart is an inspiration activator and health, wellness enthusiast, writer, and community catalyzer for a dynamic eco-tech company. She works to help others participate in safeguarding the planet with drinkable water, organic natural food, chemical-free breathable air, and empowered, happy, healthy people.The more she got involved in research and climate summits, the more she wanted to leave the planet better...
2021-07-1436 min
Balance SharedIrene McKenna is a parenting coach and founder of Irene McKenna Coaching. She aims her message towards moms ready to experience empowered motherhood.Introduction to EpisodeMotherhood, Differently with Irene McKenna. In this episode, we sit down with Irene McKenna who is a parenting coach and founder of Irene McKenna Coaching. She aims her message towards moms ready to experience empowered motherhood.Podcast Episode SummaryIrene McKenna is an empowerment coach for moms, founder Irene McKenna LLC, the Empowered Mom Project, and organizes the Facebook community Thrive Motherhood all while being a mom herself.She uses her experience to help mothers not lose themselves in their roles of "mom". Helping mothers learn how to...
2021-07-0743 min
Balance SharedFinding Balance in All Things with Karen SchopoffIntroduction to EpisodeKaren Schopoff shows us how finding balance in all things is about creating boundaries, managing expectations, and recognizing and addressing stress.Podcast Episode SummaryKaren Schopoff Rooff is a health and fitness coach and nationally recognized public speaker, entrepreneur, wife, and mom of 3 kids. She is considered a Women's Wellness Warrior, founded Balance Personal Fitness, and runs the blog Well Balanced Women.We talk about creating balance between the most important aspects of our lives- from fitness to family to personal time. Using balance to even the load...
2021-06-3035 min
Balance SharedElevating Yourself... And Your Business with Misha BartlettIntroduction to EpisodeMisha Bartlett dives into strategies and outlooks to build success as a female business leader or sales professional.Podcast Episode SummaryMisha Bartlett is an entrepreneur, certified coach, and founder of Misha Tamiko. She's spent 12 years in B2B tech and working with startups. Her focus is working with female-founded startup businesses and female sales professionals. Specifically, breaking down blockers and reaching sales goals.We discuss a range of struggles in the world of business and sales including what success should look like, managing trigger points, perceiving value...
2021-06-2336 min
Balance SharedRecognizing and Naming Trauma Informed Narratives with Kyira WackettIntroduction to EpisodeKyira Wackett walks us through recognizing and naming trauma Informed Narrativesby referencing her own experiences and techniques.Podcast Episode SummaryKyira Wackett is a therapist and new (mother/parent). We talk about recognizing and naming trauma narratives and the shame-based thinking that comes with it. She frames this in her own experiences that include being a new mother in the middle of a pandemic.She discusses the effects of trauma on the body, the difference between big T and little t trauma, and techniques on being able to...
2021-06-0933 min
Balance Shared8 Steps to Great Web Design with Michelle BalgeIntroduction to Episode
Michelle Balge is helping people to help people. In this episode, we dig into 8 steps to great web design.
Podcast Episode Summary
Michelle Balge, of Worth It Designs, a purpose driven entrepreneur joins us to talk about her web design, and her love for animals. As a purpose driven entrepreneur, she loves working with other purpose driven entrepreneurs - helping people help people.
One part of her work has been getting out of her comfort zone and seeking outside help to continue to support her as she gets out o...
2021-06-0238 min
Balance SharedMom of five, Kamini Wood, interrupted her perfectionism to live her authentic self.Introduction to EpisodeMom of five, Kamini Wood, interrupted her perfectionism to live her authentic self. As a high achiever, she is called to help others live in their authenticity.Podcast Episode SummaryKaimini Wood, a coach and mom, residing in North Carolina, talked about all the way ways we can move towards living in our authentic self. Quotables“… [A\s we get older, we end up being very reactive, right? We're not coming from a generative place. And so I have said routinely, that awareness is the doorway to ch...
2021-05-2636 min
Balance SharedDr. Alice Kerby and the Somatic Experience to Heal TraumaIntroduction to EpisodeDr. Alice Kerby teaches us that somatic simply means of the body, and she shares with us her journey to using the somatic experience to heal trauma.Podcast Episode SummarySo many aspects of our lives bring us out of the body and we can turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms. Dr. Alice Kerby works with sober and sober curious women to help them be in their body. Dr. Alice started as a massage therapist, then she became a doctor of physical therapy. N...
2021-05-1935 min
Balance SharedThis is your sign, a conversation with Katie ThompsonIntroduction to EpisodeThis is your sign to do your calling, invites Katie Thompson of Modern Darling Media. Do the thing you love, but do it in a smart way.Podcast Episode SummaryKatie Thompson is your marketing expert. She is also the one to look to when you want to start your next new thing. Katie believes that we can work towards harmony in life, rather than balance. She wants to take back the word hustle to mean flow in doing the things we love.Katie wants all of us...
2021-05-1231 min
The Dragonfly ConnectionCo-Creating And Balance with Michelle Lasley"Our time of birth was an answer to the question of the time." ~ Vanessa Couto
Michelle Lasley's interpretation is, "I believe we all have a purpose to be here, and part of our life's path is to unlock what that is, the exploration."
And, she is living her purpose!
Michelle is a mom, social justice advocate, artist, coach, educator and a sustainability guru. At the age of 11, she learned that our world needed saving and from that moment on, creating a sustainable world became her mission.
In this episode she also sh...
2021-05-0545 min
Balance SharedDebunking the stigma of CBD with Lizzy ReneeIntroduction to EpisodeLiz Renee (Carlin) continuously works on debunking the stigma of CBD. In this podcast, we discuss many facets of CBD and why you’d want to use it.Podcast Episode SummaryLiz and I discuss our mutual desire to live a whole life - meaning, we turn to natural solutions first to solve any of the issues that come our way. Liz reminded me that there have been no home health laws since 1938. She shared that there are more than 12,000 chemicals that can be considered “fragrant”. She also reminded me that t...
2021-05-0540 min
Balance SharedAncestral Medicine and Systemic Racism, a Conversation with Laura RoweIntroduction to EpisodeLaura Rowe comes back to discuss ancestral medicine and systemic racism. We believe we have a responsibility to change the system and we discuss pieces of this change.Podcast Episode SummaryLaura and I discuss systemic racism as two white-presenting cis-gendered women. We see a space where we can be quiet, where we can learn, and we pick apart different places where we can elevate and change our society. Quotables“What hurts one of us hurts all of us.”What’s the ‘right’ question? “How can we he...
2021-04-2834 min
Balance SharedIntentional change this BeltaineIntroduction to EpisodeBeltaine, the third fertility festival, and the Sabbat that ends the Time of Dawning and welcomes the Time of Light. Let's make an intentional change this Beltaine.Podcast Episode SummaryLet’s make an intentional change this Beltaine. In this episode, I reflect on what Beltaine has meant and then I invite us to consider what it can mean for us as we move towards a future with changing climates.I did not review the story of the God and the Goddess, but for you, dear reader/listener, th...
2021-04-2107 min
Balance SharedThe Shame Monster of Emotional Eating with Suzanne CarpenterIntroduction to EpisodeSuzanne Carpenter shares her story of overcoming the shame monster of emotional eating, and now she teaches you to do the same thing.Podcast Episode SummaryMichigan State University graduate, Suzanne Carpenter, joined me so we could discuss food. Suzanne shares her story of emotional eating and with an eating disorder, through her moment of change, and now on the other side where she teaches people how to have a healthy relationship with the food on their plate.Suzanne shares snippets of how “outrunning the fork” doesn’t usuall...
2021-04-1440 min
Balance SharedMake Stress Work for You, a Conversation with La-Dana ManhertzIntroduction to EpisodeLa-Dana Manhertz will make stress work for you. In this episode we dial into how stress affects the body AND how to get your control back.Podcast Episode SummaryLa-Dana and I talked for quite awhile about how stress looks, what you get when you work with La-Dana, and how stress really affects the body. La-Dana shares her steady wealth of knowledge of how the body works, how the stress hormones affect our bodies and decision making, and she shares tangible steps on how we can take back control of...
2021-04-0750 min
Balance SharedSex positive relationships, a conversation with Yael RosenstockIntroduction to EpisodeYael Rosenstock Gonzalez teaches about sex, reproductive rights, and sexual pleasure. She wants a world full of sex positive relationships. Living her polyamorous, queer life, and also holding many other identities, she is uniquely poised to hold a safe space for these stories. Here is a little bit of hers. Podcast Episode SummaryYael wants a world where we don’t have sexual violence. The under-reported number is that one in four or one in five women have experienced sexual assault. After finding a drive to teach on reproductive rights, aft...
2021-03-3139 min
Balance SharedManifesting Magic in the Every Day with Michelle ValenzuelaIntroduction to EpisodeMichelle Valenzuela learned how manifesting magic worked at a very young age. Learn how she integrates simple magic with every day.Podcast Episode SummaryMichelle Valenzuela developed her people managing philosophies while working in retail for nearly twenty years. Michelle developed her love of magic from her family. In both, she inherently sees the overlap of showing up with compassion, vulnerability, hard work, and trusting your intuition. She believes that when you focus on what you want, when you bring positive intention, and when you commit to action, you can...
2021-03-2435 min
Balance SharedLearning to question through Ostara, a Sabbat ReflectionIntroduction to EpisodeOstara is the Spring Equinox. How can we use the wisdom found during this time to inform our lives of inquiry? Embrace learning to question through Ostara.Podcast Episode SummaryIn this episode, I pontificate about our seasons, again, a Sabbat ritual of my own. This time, I ponder how shifted Christianity is with the seasons and how celebrating death when there is so much birth adds confusion. I hope you get my point that it adds an underlying confusion to the base of our society. And, we have an...
2021-03-1708 min
Balance SharedPart 2: A no-brainer choice to healing, discovering neurofeedback with Olga WardIntroduction to EpisodeCompassion for Olga’s daughter led to a path of neurofeedback where choices to practice became a no-brainer choice to healing. Podcast Episode SummaryNeurofeedback became the no-brainer choice to healing. In this episode, Olga Ward continues her journey of finding Neurofeedback. Olga developed a deeper sense of compassion and understanding when helping her adoptive daughter through her own challenges, big behaviors, and difficult days. The ideal “peaceful home” was out of reach because of the underlying trauma her daughter, and even she herself, was trying to work through.
2021-03-1034 min
Balance SharedPart 1: The Cost of Trauma and Discovering Healing with Olga WardIntroduction to EpisodeOlga Ward discovered the cost of trauma while healing her adopted daughter and herself. In this episode, we discuss how she discovered her path to healing.Podcast Episode SummaryOlga Ward joins me for two episodes where we dig into her path to finding neurofeedback as a healing modality when faced with trauma, and through this, discuss the cost of trauma.Olga’s journey to neurofeedback comes through the story of her daughter’s adoption path. Soon after Olga and her family adopted their daughter, they...
2021-03-0336 minBalance SharedProcessing grief through writing, a story of birth with Alexa BigwarfeIntroduction to EpisodeShe found herself processing grief through writing and she gave birth to so much more. In this interview Alexa Bigwarfe shares how she found the Women in Publishing Summit, and how she gives back to grieving mothers.Podcast Episode SummaryAlexa Bigwarfe is a writer, a publisher, a teacher, a producer, a wife, and a mother. And, she is a grieving mother. Our conversation leapt over many things, from how she got into writing, how she taught others to publish, how she carved a niche for womxn, how she worked...
2021-02-1738 min
Balance SharedChange the narrative and just do it, with Erin EverleighIntroduction to EpisodeErin Everleigh learned she had to change the narrative and just do it if she was going to tell the story that was burning inside her.Podcast Episode SummaryWe begin our conversation with “what happens after the happily ever after”. Erin Everleigh is a dentist by trade. 7 years ago, she got an itch. A story was growing inside of her, and she had to get it out. In this episode, we discuss Erin’s process, how she let her story out, and how she shares her determination and hard work w...
2021-02-1034 min
Balance SharedAimee Biondolillo found health after her Come to Jesus MomentIntroduction to EpisodeAimee Biondolillo joins me and shares her story of finding her passion and mission. Specifically, she found health after her come to Jesus moment.Podcast Episode SummaryAimee has a mission to share and help others with their healing journey. She would love, even more, if people didn’t have to live a pain-filled life to begin with. Her journey saw its awakening, like all good awakenings, in the bath.While always a spiritual person, Aimee’s path to finding God was circuitous and filled with...
2021-02-0334 min
Balance SharedImbolc, further celebrations of the return of lightIntroduction to EpisodeFurther celebrations of the return of light. We began our light return celebrations with Yule, and we will continue with IMbolc. Podcast Episode SummaryIn this episode, I, Michelle Lasley, your host, pontificate about the merging of seasons. I review where we are on the wheel of the year and where we are going.Note, I align the “start” of the year with Aries Season or Ostera, the Astrological start of the year I argue Imbolc is both the end and a beginning Note other holidays with th...
2021-01-2709 min
Balance SharedRaising the Consciousness of Humanity with Samantha GillisIntroduction to EpisodeSamantha Gillis takes light workers and morphs them into light warriors, raising the consciousness of humanity. Podcast Episode SummarySamantha, mother of two, works with individuals who feel trapped in mediocrity and want to tap into their purpose. She brings people to a “5th Dimension Future” where they learn how to live a life of ease that is in alignment with their true selves. TipsRestart at 10 secondsUse 5 affirmations to start your day I am power. I am control. I am awareness.I am creating. I am money. Use...
2021-01-2032 min
Balance SharedThree Pillars to Happiness, a Conversation with Gillian DuncanIntroduction to EpisodeThere are three pillars to happiness, personal development and health and wellness. Gillian Duncan talks about how she figured this out how she works with women to help them get their happiness. Podcast Episode SummaryGillian does her work on the other side of the pond. I was so delighted to meet someone so many miles way from me who also teaches womxn on clarity. In this episode, Gillian explains how she broke through from the years of conditioning that told her, as a young girl and later a woman, t...
2021-01-1337 min
Balance SharedKeep Digging to Better Health, an Interview with Andrea Procidaroduction to EpisodeMy guest today is Andrea Procida, a fellow essential oil educator and enthusiast. Andrea has found her calling in health coaching after tirelessly advocating for her own health. In today’s episode, we dig into what that looks like.Podcast Episode SummaryAndrea’s life changed in sixth grade. She doesn’t know exactly what or when it was. But one day, she woke up with pain and anxiety. The fearless girl left for safer ground, and not until a few years ago did Andrea actually find relief from living with L...
2021-01-0634 min
Balance SharedPart 2: Ashlee Angelus, finding Beauty through the BreakdownIntroduction to EpisodeAshlee Angelus comes back to continue our conversation. We discussed, in depth the harrowing aspects motherhood can have for some mothers. In this episode, we discuss how she turned those breakdowns into breakthroughs. Ashlee is an expert at finding beauty through the breakdown, and she shares that wisdom with you.Podcast Episode SummaryAshlee Angelus is a life and business coach for moms. She loves to help them align their business with them. She specializes in helping moms who have forgotten themselves get reconnected and rekindle the...
2020-12-3029 min
Balance SharedPart 1: Ashlee Angelus, the Entwined Tales of Motherhood and EntrepreneurshipIntroduction to EpisodeToday’s guest, Ashlee Angelus, tells us about growing up with labels, breaking through, and the harrowing journey to becoming a mother of a Rainbow Baby. Ashlee shares the entwined tales of motherhood and entrepreneurship. Podcast Episode SummaryTrigger Warning: part of Ashlee’s story involves the traumatic birth of her rainbow baby. While our language is clean, the topic could be triggering to some listeners. My guest, Ashlee Angelus, walks us through many experiences from being labeled and told she could do one thing to defying those labels...
2020-12-2337 minBalance SharedRise Again This YuleIntroduction to EpisodeIn this episode, I discuss the patterns of Yule and what we could be doing to align our patterns with those we see in nature.Podcast Episode SummaryI love taking a look at Shadow Time to get us thinking about what we should be doing during our year. So, I spend a little time reflecting on nature and offer an invitation of doing nothing as we celebrate the turn of light.For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.
2020-12-1604 min
Balance SharedShifting Mindsets with Farah FancyIntroduction to EpisodeIn today’s episode, I sit down with shift-disturber, Farah Fancy. Farah is a self-proclaimed Artist Doula who works to prepare people for creation.Podcast Episode SummaryFarah has been through a lot, on purpose and because life handed it to her. She uses her wisdom of travel and self-discovery to share that beauty with all she encounters. She as an artist and she knows her job is to bring beauty to an ugly world. In today’s interview, Farah shares some of her travels, some of the insig...
2020-12-0932 min
Balance SharedRevision culture through values, a conversation with Michelle GayIntroduction to Episode
My guest today is Michelle Gay, a business coach who helps business owners strengthen their businesses by getting to the root of their needs and values.
Podcast Episode Summary
I have taken at least four values workshops with Michelle Gay, since 2017. We met when she taught a few sections of a weekend business retreat. I loved her work (and the work of the retreat coach) so much that I kept coming back. I am so grateful she said, “Yes,” to my podcast invitation.
We sat down recently to disc...
2020-12-0230 min
Balance SharedWine and Dine with Caroline: Taking the boogeyman out of enjoying good wineIntroduction to Episode
My guest today is wine expert Caroline Conner. In this episode, we discuss what wines you should drink and dispel some common wine myths. Listen to wine and dine with Caroline.
Podcast Episode Summary
Caroline is a young fiery American living in Lyon running her online wine business. We sat down in June and discussed many aspects of wine: growing, tasting, testing, drinking, and most notably - enjoying.
We covered the difference between sulfites and tannins, where they are. The new label in France for “natural” wines. We note...
2020-11-2534 min
Balance SharedWhy does astrology matter? A conversation with Vanessa CoutoIntroduction to Episode
Vanessa Couto returns as my guest where we further discuss “why does astrology matter?” Waxing and waning between analogy, patterns, and history, we dive into this ancient personal development tool and touch the surface of how it can help you.
Podcast Episode Summary
Vanessa Couto, an archetypal astrologer, returns to my podcast to further our discussion in astrology. We begin laying the field where astrology can help support and broaden imagination, something crucially missing from our current society. We discuss how astrology helps us respect longer cycles, and is an amaz...
2020-11-1838 min
Balance SharedHoliday Conversation Guide: 4 Steps to Connecting DeeplyIntroduction to Episode
In this episode, I break down the Holiday Conversation Guide, which will help you more deeply connect with those people you care about, especially during the holidays.
Podcast Episode Summary
I created the Holiday Conversation Guide to help you have deep conversations with the people you care about. We have been a disservice to ourselves and our own healing journeys by not talking about things like religion, politics, sex, and money. So, let’s talk about them.
If you’re listening to this, I want you to take owne...
2020-11-1111 min
Balance SharedMindfully Mastering Systems to Ease Your FlowIntroduction to Episode
Jessica Hansen, the Systems Magician, joins me in this episode where we discuss mindfully mastering systems. We start our conversation with sustainability, and how COVID has forced us each to examine how we interact with the world.
Podcast Episode Summary
Jessica and I sat down only one month into COVID quarantine. It’s fascinating to reflect that we are still in much the same space as we were so many months ago. Many people have shifted how they acquire the things that make their homes run, and the first part of...
2020-11-0445 min
Balance SharedGet out the vote with Emma BurkeIntroduction to Episode
In this episode, we are working to get out the vote with Emma Burke, who is running for Lake Oswego City Council. Emma comes back just before the election to discuss our 2020 election and her campaign and some of the things she wants for Lake Oswego.
Podcast Episode Summary
Emma and I spent a lot of time discussing the right to vote, how close women are to not being able to vote, and every time you add an intersection onto “women” the distance to when we can and could not vote...
2020-10-3037 min
Balance SharedWeave the metaphysical with everyday life, an interview with Naomi EklundIntroduction to Episode
Naomi Eklund was born with all her clairvoyant gifts available. She is a coach, mentor, trainer, and public speaker who manages Infinite Yes Coaching. In this episode, we weave the metaphysical with everyday life.
Podcast Episode Summary
Naomi and I had a lovely discussion about metaphysics and our life here in this plane. We discussed all aspects of honoring metaphysical tools, living a life worth living by getting in touch with oneself, and when in organizations, different tools to support knowledge to better support the teams you lead.
Q...
2020-10-2837 min
Balance SharedShow up generously, swag and strategy with Jamie YoungIntroduction to Episode
Jamie Young wants you to show up generously. And, she’ll teach you how using her magical strategy and swag.
Podcast Episode Summary
In this episode, my guest, Jamie Young, talks us through how swag found her as a tool business can use to show up generously - giving their potential clients something they need while engaging with them on a relational level. She shares how she learns to balance motherhood and business, and overall, her enormous love of teaching generosity.
Quotables
“Start simple.”
“I want p...
2020-10-2135 min
Balance SharedComing into her own, a discussion with Mari Bartoo JacobsonIntroduction to Episode
Mari Bartoo Jacobson is a woman coming into her own. In this episode, Mari and I discuss intuition, the divine feminine and masculine, and mindful ways to own all of who we are.
Podcast Episode Summary
Mari Bartoo Jacobson comes back in Season 2 to build on our season 1 conversation. Mari and I educate people on essential oils, and this passion is discussed throughout our conversation. We recorded our conversation in June 2020, during a Cancer New Moon. Our conversation tripped over intuitive use of oils, of life, of everything. We discussed...
2020-10-1437 min
Balance SharedLive a life by design with Colin ThompsonIntroduction to Episode
Colin Thompson has learned how to live a life by design. Hailing from double immigrants to creating a birthday ritual that leaves him energized for 364 days out of the year, he shares his story from coaching to diversity, and so much more.
Podcast Episode Summary
My guest today is Colin Thompson. Colin is a life coach who lives in China with his wife and young son. Colin discovered it was more effective to walk with people then motivate them one inspiring speech at a time. In this episode, he shares...
2020-10-0736 min
Balance SharedBody positivity and the long road of ending body shamingIntroduction to Episode
Becky Jarvis, creator of Curvy Chic Closet, and I sat down and discussed Body Positivity. Becky has been working to make plus-sized clothing accessible to moms and other plus-sized individuals for over ten years. In this episode, we discuss her journey from just providing a sale to changing the world of body positivity.
Podcast Episode Summary
Becky Jarvis didn’t initially set out to make body positivity and inclusivity what she focuses on. She started with making affordable plus-sized clothing accessible. Her journey of building the largest plus-sized consignment event, lo...
2020-09-3035 min
Balance SharedThe Shadow Side of Attraction: Debunking the Law of Attraction with Laura RoweIntroduction to Episode
Did you ever consider that there is a shadow side to attraction? In this episode, Laura and I discuss what the law of attraction is, a brief history, and some cautionary tales of when it is time to look outside of the law for spiritual guidance.
Podcast Episode Summary
The Law of Attraction is used in a lot of empathic, coaching circles to boost the manifestation of those who ascribe to it. In this episode, we discuss the shadow side, and many other laws that are at play.
...
2020-09-2338 min
Balance SharedWholehearted Parenting with Danielle BettmannIntroduction to Episode
I sat down with Danielle Bettmann, of Wholeheartedly, to discuss what it takes to parent, and as a byproduct of our times, what it takes to parent in COVID. She advocates for wholehearted parenting, a way where we look at our needs and then serve our kids.
Podcast Episode Summary
Danielle is rich with information, tips, strategies, and a great understanding of what kids and parents both need to be able live successful lives under normal pressure, and especially under global pandemic pressure. In this episode, we discuss her vision...
2020-09-1637 min
Balance SharedRedefining support through candid conversations and safe spaces with Shawanda RandolphIntroduction to Episode
Have you had a candid conversation recently? Do you have a safe space to go when you need to have those candid conversations? Shawanda Randolph is the director and founder of DeeCilla Center in Arizona, and she’s found holding space for candid conversations is a key to healing our world. DeeCilla, a small community based nonprofit, offers a sanctuary for people who are building a new life, leaving abuse. Their transitional program teaches participants how to stand and live, giving them the necessary tools to rebuild on solid ground.
Podcast Episode Su...
2020-09-0936 min
Balance SharedRise up through change, an interview with Jessica WilliamsIntroduction to Episode
On the Rise Solutions is a testimony to how we Rise Up when adversity calls. In this interview, Michelle and Jessica discuss super powers, the importance of pivoting and reinventing yourself, and lessons learned when life throws you serious curveballs.
Podcast Episode Summary
In this episode, Jessica shares how she rebranded from the Superwoman Project to On the Rise Solutions. The conversation ebbs and flows through strategy, honoring the grieving process in change, and several clear strategic steps on how to rebrand, how to navigate change, and more.
...
2020-09-0233 min
Balance SharedWhat is Tarot, Paganism, and how can you use it - with Maree BentoOne of my first interviews of Season 1 was with Maree Bento, who has designed many tarot decks and oracle cards, tools for your own divination practice. We have a lovely conversation about art history, what paganism is not, and so much more.
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2020-08-2636 minBalance SharedHow does Theresa work with the soul-preneur?We revisit my January conversation with Theresa Pridemore. Theresa works her magick by helping those who teach and use the weird and the woo in their business to tell their stories. Those of us who align with the weird and the woo sometimes have different challenges than your typical business. Theresa digs into what she's found and some tips on how to manage.
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Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/balanceshared/support
2020-08-1940 minBalance SharedLet's (re)learn PR with Lety Juarez Sisson!Lety, another great mom who owns her own business, is in my circle of support. And, she too, said, "Yes," when I asked her to share her PR wisdom. Take a listen and find a top 3-5 tips for why and how you need PR for your work.
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2020-08-1232 minBalance SharedRevisiting my first interview: Mom of 4, SEO wonder, Cheryl DeClercqueCheryl was the one who said, "You should do a podcast!" In that line of support, she graciously agreed to be my first interviewee. Cheryl has worked from home the last few years starting as a virtual assistant and morphing into an SEO specialist. She loves learning about the systems that support OUR businesses. Take a listen.
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2020-08-0537 minBalance SharedFinn found their purpose by centering with the divineIn my conversation with Finn we discussed *many* tips to get centered with the divine (spirit/source/God). And that helps you get aligned with your purpose. This episode was an accidental companion to Kathy Stanley's conversation.
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2020-07-2934 minBalance SharedLet's revisit eco-psychology with Kathy StanleyHaving a deep connection with earth is important for individual alignment. Take a re-listen and get inspired.
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2020-07-2238 minBalance SharedHow did Jeff find his purpose?Let's listen to my conversation with Jeff again. I've talked about non-linear paths with a lot of guests, and it really shows up here.
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2020-07-1542 minBalance SharedLet's check in about empathy with Laura RoweThis is the replay of my episode with Laura Rowe on empaths.
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2020-07-0834 minBalance SharedLet's listen to mom guilt againWe'll take a listen to mom guilt. Let's let that go!
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2020-07-0141 min
Balance SharedCelebrating Season 1 and What’s Coming UpIn the last regularly scheduled episode of season 1, I discuss celebrating, looking ahead to season 2, and reflecting on season 1.
I reviewed the top 5 episodes, which include:
My interview with Laura Rowe where we discussed empaths, woman, and more
https://michellelasley.com/2020/01/laura-rowe-an-interview/
My conversation with Jeffrey Hahler which really crystalized reflecting on non-linear paths
https://michellelasley.com/2020/03/interview-with-jeff-hahler/
My chat with Erica on radically accepting mom guilt and what that looks like
https://michellelasley.com/2020/01/radical-acceptance-moving-beyond-mom-guilt/
My discussion with Emily, which included more motherhood and aligning life with our passions
https://michellelasley...
2020-06-2407 min
Balance SharedValuing tender care, an interview with Tiffany ChapmanIntroduction to Episode
Tender education is the single most important measure of success for kids, and we can’t have it because of the market failure of care. My guest, Tiffany Chapman, and I dive into what care is, why it’s important, and what we can do to change it.
Podcast Episode Summary
My guest today is Tiffany Chapman, a regional organizer with Family Forward. Today, we speak about the work that Family Forward Action does to address the growing childcare disparities we face.
Care work is invisible, and if it d...
2020-06-1741 min
Balance SharedEco-psychology with Kathy StanleyIntroduction to Episode
In today’s episode, Kathy Stanley and I discuss balance, alignment, nature, deep-psychology and how that works with Kathy’s art and energy work.
Podcast Episode Summary
My guest today is Kathy Stanley. Kathy is an eco-psychologist, an artist, and a teacher. In our conversation we talk about sustainability, why it’s important, and different ways in which we can engage in sustainability. Kathy also practices energy work, and she walks us through some healing practices that we can take so that the activist can renew.
During our interv...
2020-06-1038 min
Balance SharedCandidate for Council: Emma BurkeIntroduction to Episode
My guest today is Emma Leigh Burke, who is running for City Council in Lake Oswego for the November general election. In today’s episode we talk about the importance of representation, our love of vote by mail, and how Emma will tackle issues important to her and to you when she’s elected to office.
Podcast Episode Summary
In our conversation, we discussed diversifying councils because making sure the people governing look like the community they represent allows for more stable communities. We discussed how important it is to have...
2020-06-0333 min
Balance SharedMotherhood and Serial Entrepreneurship, an interview with Chrissy MarquardtIntroduction to Episode
My guest today is Chrissy Marquadt. Chrissy is a powerhouse Enneagram 7 who is a wife, mother, and serial entrepreneur. We discuss responsibility, boundaries, GOAL setting, and so much more.
Podcast Episode Summary
Chrissy and I sat down and discussed many things from coffee chats to life coaching. This episode is packed with goal setting tips, boundary setting tips, and stories of Chrissy’s journey on her path of self-discovery navigating various roles.
Chrissy is an Enneagram 7 and loves setting goals. This year has brought a refocus on maybe no...
2020-05-2748 min
Balance SharedDiscovering your life’s purpose with Finn LambournIntroduction to Episode
Finn is a corporate dropout looking to co-create the future. After finding they were physically shutting down because of a stressful corporate job, they decided to switch to a path of discovery. That discovery has led to really assessing their impact on the environment and sharing a vision with the world.
This episode is marked explicit for the name of a poem at the end called the D#ckless Unite.
Podcast Episode Summary
Finn and I discuss sustainability, concepts of enough, working on our discovery. I love talking...
2020-05-2034 min
Balance SharedGrace by way of griefIntroduction to Episode
My late sister’s 42 birthday. Celebrating those who’ve passed and some tips to manage your grief.
Podcast Episode Summary
We are in an unprecedented time. We keep saying this. And, today’s episode coincides with my late sister’s birthday. She would have been 42. I still feel grief over her passing.
Given that today is mixed with our stay-at-home orders and all that life has brought us, I wanted to share a few things. Some thoughts from the show “Dead to Me”, an article in the Huffington Post, and so...
2020-05-1311 min
Balance SharedFrom Air Force to Retired, and not even 50, an interview with Misty GremaudIntroduction to Episode
My guest today is Misty Gremaud, currently serving as PTA mom. Misty started her career in the air force to travel, to see the world. And, it was an adventure that led her through her 20s, 30s, and to retirement at 44. We discuss her path and next step aspirations.
Podcast Episode Summary
I wanted to chat with Misty because she does some interesting things, shares non-traditional roles with her husband, and has some fun stories. So, we talked about her journey from high school to air force to retirement. We...
2020-05-0639 min
Balance SharedBeltaine PontificationsIntroduction to Episode
In this episode, I discuss Beltaine - a pagan fire festival. I share some things I have noticed over the seasons, what makes this time of year different from others, where we came from, and what we can look forward to. I also bring up the aspect of the God and Goddess and as it relates to this time.
Recommended Resources
Alexander, Sky. The Modern Guide to Witchcraft: Your Complete Guide to Witches, Covens & Spells. © 2014, Adams Media an Imprint of Simon & Schuster, Inc., Avon, MA.
Lister, Lisa. Witch: Unleashed. Untamed. Unapologetic. © 2017. Ha...
2020-04-2911 min
Balance SharedA discussion of immersive art with Cheri RiznykIntroduction to Episode
My guest today is my friend Cheri Riznyk. We dive deep into the world of imagination discussing how she creates magical worlds for kids to perform. Oh, and she does improv, but you’ll have to wait for season 2 to hear more about that.
Podcast Episode Summary
Cheri has been a performer and interested in performances her entire life. She weaves a tale from when she was young and initially introduced with immersive theater. Now, one of her passion projects is facilitating kids in an improv theater through an amazing co...
2020-04-2233 min
Balance SharedFollowing up with Beaverton’s Next MayorIntroduction to Episode
My guest today is Lacey Beaty, candidate for Beaverton Mayor. We discuss how motherhood affects campaigning, how the city works, and what it will take to co-create a future we all want.
Podcast Episode Summary
I begin my discussion with Lacey on the importance of a new class “City 101: Governance, a brief overview” We first discuss how Beaverton is not a full service city. Rather it has special districts that manage parks, fire, and even the schools.
Lacey went on to explain how the mayor is basically a city...
2020-04-1543 min
Balance SharedThe Trauma Whisperer, Janine Wirth talks About TraumaIntroduction to Episode
The Trauma Whisperer, Janine Wirth, a licensed psychotherapist, clinical hypnotherapist, and coach, has a virtual global practice where she works with women to help them heal from those experiences.
Podcast Episode Summary
Janine shares a pivotal story of her car being hijacked, unpacking her own trauma, and using this revelation and gifts to help support other women going through their own trauma.
She shares her vision of working through intergenerational trauma, the difference between big T and little t trauma, and how children take things so personally and...
2020-04-0839 min
Balance SharedAstrology, sacred commerce, and business with Vanessa CoutoIntroduction to Episode
My guest today is Vanessa Couto, an astrologer with a mission to help people align their gifts, their purpose with their livelihood through their business. We discuss astrology, philosophy, art, and business - all with the lens of elevating where we are now.
Podcast Episode Summary
Vanessa shares a lot of thinking and philosophy weaving astrology, philosophy, art, and history into one. She asks us all to bring sacred and spiritual back into our businesses and our exchanges. And, she discusses how we can use astrology to do just that.
2020-04-0141 min
Balance SharedEngaging with Brandy HenryIntroduction to Episode
Engaging on Social Media with Brandy Henry. That’s what Brandy does. She uses her teacher archetype and now demonstrates to businesses how to authentically engage on social media.
Podcast Episode Summary
In this episode, Brandy sits down with Michelle and they discuss different ways to engage on social media. She really enjoys breaking down social media into digestible bits. Brandy shares her expertise, thinking, and how she works with clients. Some fun bits at the end (like why they are doing an 8am interview!).
Brandy has a un...
2020-03-2537 min
Balance SharedOstara’s invitation to co-create a different futureIntroduction to Episode
Michelle reflects on the world at large, what that can mean for our changing seasons, and she invites you, dear listener, to intentionally co-create a future we can all be proud of.
Podcast Episode Summary
In this episode, Michelle considers how this time of year might be telling us something. She reflects on the current state of affairs amid COVID-19, schools being closed and students engaging in “distance learning”, social distancing, and more. She discusses steps to help be free of fear, consider what this message might mean, and to ques...
2020-03-1813 min
Balance SharedInterview with Jeff HahlerIntroduction to Episode
Michelle reached out and an old friend said, “Yes.” In today’s interview, Jeff walks through how he has landed on his passions, one of which includes working with foster dogs.
Podcast Episode Summary
We all have a story. Every single one of us. And, some of us take non-linear paths to find what we want in life. Jeff Hahler describes how he followed one thing to another which led him from High School to an Apprenticeship to a Job to a Wife to finding his passions.
If you lo...
2020-03-1142 min
Balance SharedAn Interview with David ScheerIntroduction to Episode
In this episode, Michelle sits down with David Scheer, dedicated community member, Odd Fellow, and Aikido Instructor.
Podcast Episode Summary
David discusses his teaching philosophies and how they integrate into all aspects of his work. He shares stories of how he learned to be a great teacher, modeled after his own great teacher. He shared his respect for history of how techniques have been developed and shared over time. He integrates care a consistent care through all the lessons. He shares how he has realistic expectations working w...
2020-03-0439 min
Balance SharedI just turned 42! Celebrating birthdays.Introduction to Episode
Since I’m 42, that must mean I know the answer to life, the universe, and everything, right? Wrong! I share four things, top of mind, that I have kind of figured out as I enter my 42nd year.
Podcast Episode Summary
For this birthday episode, I reflect on four things that I’ve been working on or seem super relevant to me from the past year.
I don’t know everything
Boundaries
Marriage (stated Mawage)
Me Time
I love getting older because every year, I get a little...
2020-02-2611 min
Balance SharedAn interview with Lety Juarez-SissonIntroduction to Episode
A few years ago, Lety and Michelle met through a Women in Networking group housed out of St. Helens, Oregon. Fast friends, they dive into public relations, Let’s wheelhouse, and why you would want someone to do PR for you.
Podcast Episode Summary
Lety does not identify as Sam from Sex in the City, except for the badass portion. Lety fell into this career after exploring beating a feature writer, a way to share people’s stories.
Basically, PR is promoting to media. The media can vary, and...
2020-02-1938 min
Balance SharedUsing essential oils to walk into joy, an interview with Jeni HoustonIntroduction to Episode
Using essential oils to walk into joy wasn’t something Jeni was planning to learn. Chemistry drop-outs, Michelle and Jeni, discuss how essential oils can support the whole body, and why the chemistry works.
Podcast Episode Summary
Jeni Houston, aka “California girl/Super nerd”, found essential oils when her life was about to change. And, she started to use them regularly. The more she used them, the more she noticed they were the catalyst for her rediscovery of self and joy.
In today’s episode, Michelle and Jeni talk abou...
2020-02-1244 min
Balance SharedStrategies for curating your brandIntroduction to Episode
Strategies for identifying and curating your brand. This podcast is for people who know what they do and are looking at how to show up in the world.
Podcast Episode Summary
You’ve taken the leap, and you know what you want to do. Maybe you are a chiropractor? Maybe you are a designer? Maybe you're an SEO specialist? Maybe you are a writer? Maybe you are looking for a job? I wrote, previously, “7 Steps to Establishing Your Brand,” this podcast breaks down the steps ‘finding what you like’ and ‘deciding.’
2020-02-1109 min
Balance SharedAn Interview with Emily MierenIntroduction to Episode
In this interview with Emily Mieren, Michelle and Emily discuss motherhood, figuring out roles, and switching things up as familial need, passions, and opportunities present themselves.
Podcast Episode Summary
Emily and Michelle start with essential oils they used to prepare for interviewing on the podcast. They continue talking about how we serendipitously find our people… when we might be similarly aged, our kids are similarly aged, and it wasn’t always on purpose.
Some simple self-care can be in Breathwork. Then, pair that with essential oils because a mini...
2020-02-0538 min
Balance SharedHow do you celebrate Imbolc?Introduction to Episode
How do you celebrate Imbolc? First, what is it? Second, how did it come about? In this bonus episode, Michelle briefly talks about the history and what we can learn from this first spring holiday.
Podcast Episode Summary
Happy Imbolc! In today’s episode, Michelle briefly goes over Imbolc, its history, and she offers a continued invitation to renew and change up your rituals.
When the Catholic Church spread its mission, it needed many ways to convert non-Christians to this way of thinking. In the move from polytheism to...
2020-02-0408 min
Balance SharedAn Interview with Mari Bartoo JacobsonIntroduction to Episode
Do you feel good in your body? Mari wants to know. Mari is on a mission to get people to feel good in their bodies. But, she didn’t always believe this or educate on this. Join Michelle and Mari as they dive into how Mari found her passion and what she’s doing to educate people on it.
Podcast Episode Summary
First, I must apologize. I mispronounced “Maree Bento’s” name. Both Maree and Mari pronounce their name “Mary”.
Second, Mari and I had a lovely chat covering so ma...
2020-01-2937 min
Balance SharedAn Interview with Theresa PridemoreIntroduction to Episode
In this episode, Michelle and Theresa sit down and chat about soul-based or Spirit-led businesses. Theresa, growing from the world of marketing, has built a business where she guides empaths and healers on a journey of discovery that allows them to knit together all their passions with a core message. Learn a little bit about how Theresa works and other tools she’s created to help empaths, like herself, along the way.
Podcast Episode Summary
Michelle and Theresa talk about many things: empaths, storytelling, connections, money, and so much more. Th...
2020-01-2240 min
Balance SharedRadical Acceptance: Moving Beyond Mom GuiltIntroduction to Episode
Erica Vaughn, fellow mom and essential oil educator, chats with Michelle about the upcoming theme of their jointly taught classes in the Portland Metro area. This year, their ongoing essential oil education is all about moving beyond mom guilt.
Podcast Episode Summary
Mom Guilt is something that can affect anyone who cares for another. Erica and Michelle share examples of when they have experienced and do experience mom guilt. They discuss ways in which they have recognized the phenomena and steps they have taken to transform from it. This naming...
2020-01-1541 min
Balance SharedInterview with Laura RoweIntroduction to Episode
Laura and Michelle discuss women, empaths, human consciousness, the number 13, and most importantly - co-creating our world into one we all want.
Podcast Episode Summary
Laura and Michelle begin discussing what is an empath, how people become or are empaths. They continue weaving in co-creation, stopping the pendulum, and other thought topics. Get inspired about co-creating a new feature with this episode!
Quotables
“An empath is someone who has the ability to feel other people’s feelings.”
4 Ways to Become an Empath
Biological
Geneti...
2020-01-0834 min
Balance SharedHappy New Year! This is an invitation for my grace, your purpose, and joy.Introduction to Episode
Michelle discusses going into 2020 with grace, purpose, and joy.
< >Podcast Episode Summary
Listen as we discuss why it’s important to show up with grace, have purpose, and show up in joy. Need more purpose or joy, there’s an invitation at the end to join Michelle for a 3-day workshop on visioning.
< >Recommended Resources
2020 visioning retreat: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/74243639725.
Don’t forget the code: VISION2020.
One on one joy sessions: https://michellelasley.as.me/oneononejoy .
For more information about Michel...
2020-01-0112 min
Balance SharedMerry Christmas!Introduction to Episode
Take a listen to various traditions around Christmas as we celebrate the hope of new light.
Podcast Episode Summary
Michelle asked friends to share their Christmas traditions. Hear from some written reports and a few who shared their traditions in their own voice.
Recommended Resources
For more information about Michelle, Balance Shared, events, and projects, please visit www.michellelasley.com.
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2019-12-2511 min
Balance SharedAn Interview with Lacey Beaty, Candidate for Beaverton’s Next MayorIntroduction to Episode
In episode 7, Michelle and Lacey sit down and discuss her campaign for mayor, how she got here, why it’s so important for women to run in politics and her plans for change in Beaverton. She describes some of her recent projects and her passion for engaged community members.
Podcast Episode Summary
Lacey Beaty shares with Michelle the importance of service, the loneliness in serving in the army. She discusses what it's like to serve in politics with no young people, and certainly no moms. And, she expresses how she is actively working to change that landscape. La...
2019-12-1830 min