Shows
IT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey069: Get To Know Your Pelvic Floor with Sara ReardonTHIS EPISODE IS RELATIVELY GRAPHIC FOR THE SQUEAMISH AND IS EXTREMELY PERSONAL. IF YOU'RE NOT INTO THAT - SKIP THIS EPISODE.
I am chatting with Sara Reardon, a board-certified women’s health and pelvic floor therapist specializing in the treatment of pelvic floor muscle dysfunction in men and women. On this episode, we’ll talk about:
What the pelvic floor actually is
What are some of the challenges that you might face when you have a tight or weak pelvic floor
How the pelvic floor is integral to many seasons and stages...2024-09-1745 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey068: How to Stay Married with Dr. Tracy Dalgleish I am chatting with Dr. Tracy Dalgleish. She is a clinic psychologist, mom of 2, and the author of “I Didn’t Sign Up For This”: A Couples Therapist Shares Real-Life Stories of Breaking Patterns and Finding Joy in Relationships... Including Her Own
On this episode, we’ll talk about:
Moments when we start to see the friction of our relationships and how to tackle that change
How our biggest issues with our partners might be more about ourselves than we think
Strategies on how to “communicate” our needs more effectively
2024-09-0332 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey067: What Are You Living Your Life For? with Deanna FiguritoYou’re listening to the summer series of the It’s Fine. Podcast. I’ve decided to take a recording break this summer because well, transitioning into working motherhood and balancing life has been CHALLENGING.
For the full episode with Deanna, listen here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4bLhhvwP9rIGX2OSlenp88?si=51fda2916d0540ff 2024-08-2012 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey066: Be Nicer To Your Younger Self with Elaine EvansYou’re listening to the summer series of the It’s Fine. Podcast. I’ve decided to take a recording break this summer because well, transitioning into working motherhood and balancing life has been CHALLENGING.
For the full episode with Elaine, listen here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3glrnnzBqNhY0Mmb7tBeII?si=paDrfSSGTaSv-9vEDQIy1A2024-08-0600 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey065: I'm Currently Experiencing Anxiety with Nadia FloritaYou’re listening to the summer series of the It’s Fine. Podcast. I’ve decided to take a recording break this summer because well, transitioning into working motherhood and balancing life has been CHALLENGING.
For the full interview with Nadia, please listen here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0Y2P3RXnQ3ODAaroTDVACe?si=YDfuzdxkQJinjXGLBd7uTw 2024-07-3000 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey064: The Root Cause of Your Burnout with Nina NesdolyYou’re listening to the summer series of the It’s Fine. Podcast. I’ve decided to take a recording break this summer because well, transitioning into working motherhood and balancing life has been CHALLENGING.
For the full episode with Nina, listen here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3UHqLGPaU2hUzcWzlaG1Xb?si=a0utg1jlSuKlwBH_C5Q4Ow2024-07-1612 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey063: How Close Are You to A Complete Shut Down? (Living with Depression) with Amanda ArmstrongThanks for listening to the "It's FINE." podcast. I am currently on maternity leave and am re-sharing my favorite nuggets of wisdom from the 2023 podcast year.
For the full episode with Amanda, listen here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/47RLDIMbJxoo6oFy9tpZBc?si=6x8-bpluSWSrxiba1nEIyA
2024-07-0213 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey062: “Getting Your Body Back” (And The Things We Tell Ourselves) with Anna VictoriaToday, I am chatting with Anna Victoria. She is the founder of Vitalura Labs and Bodylura Nation.
On this episode, we’ll talk about:
Learning to love our body in different seasons and changing our motivations
Ways to know your body is changing without getting on the scale
Anna’s simple hacks to working towards your body goals
2024-06-1845 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey061: Should I Freeze My Eggs with Dr. Aimee EyvazzadehToday, I am chatting with Dr. Aimee Eyvazzadeh. She has 20+ years working in fertility care and the host of the Egg Whisper Podcast. On this episode, we’ll talk about:
What the egg freezing process looks like
What the emotional conversations are around wanting to freeze your eggs (ie: like using donor sperm)
What you can gain from learning more about egg and embryo freezing (especially if you aren’t sure what the future looks like)
2024-06-0433 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey060: Learning How to Trust Your Gut with Tracy VadakumcheryToday, I am chatting with Tracy Vadakumchery, the Bad Indian Therapist. She addresses toxic guilt and shame that affect cultural norms and South Asian mental health, along with all things people-pleasing anxiety and culturally-related stress and trauma.
On this episode, we talk about
How our ethnic communities might keep us from trying to explore the right kinds of support
What trusting our gut can look like and why we struggle to trust it
A simple way to identify your values
Tracy is accepting new clients in New York, Florida, and C...2024-05-2136 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey059: What Matters as a Mom of a Newborn with Dr. Mona (The Feeding Debate)Today, I am chatting with Dr. Mona, a pediatrician and host of podcast “The Peds Doc Talk”. On this episode, we will talk about:
The feeding debate - breastfeeding vs. formula
The best ways to care for yourself as mom of a newborn
What bonding looks like and what should be priority one
2024-05-0728 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey058: Mental Load with Paige ConnellToday, I am chatting with Paige Connell (sheisapaigeturner on socials). Paige is a working mother of four who uses her platform on TikTok and Instagram to share her thoughts on the mental load, parenting, and her career. Her goal is to raise awareness about the mental load of motherhood and advocate for equitable relationships for couples.
On this episode, we’ll talk about:
What is mental load
Where does mental load show up and examples of it
How mental load can impact our relationships, especially our marriages
And how we can...2024-04-3042 min
Unfollowing MumEP52 Generational trauma & toxic family dynamics as a child of immigrants On this week's episode, host Harriet Shearsmith chats to Rachel Varkey, host of It's Fine! Pod, about her experiences of generational trauma and toxic family dynamics as a child of immigrants. They talk about the 'that's just white woman stuff' myth that surrounds cycle breaking and challenging our generational trauma.You can find Rachel here: https://www.instagram.com/itsfinethepod?igsh=N3Fjdmp5ZXRtNXE1 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.2024-04-2455 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey057: Toxic Cycle Breaking (Cycle Breaking Parenting) with Harriet ShearsmithToday, I am chatting with Harriet Shearsmith, creator of the podcast Unfollowing Mum and certified empowerment coach. On this episode, we’ll talk about:
What is cycle breaking and how can we become aware of it
How we can identify what cycles and patterns to break in our adult lives
How we can know we are actively repairing and restoring our relationships in our adult lives with the people around us, especially our kids
Tips for cycle breaking parenting2024-04-1638 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey056: Healing as a Daughter of Immigrants with Dr. Pauline PeckToday, I am chatting with Dr. Pauline Yeghnazar Peck. She is a licensed psychologist and an Iranian-Armenian daughter of immigrants. On this episode, we talk about:
The common clashes between daughters of immigrants and their caregivers
What those clashes can do to our identity and self worth
What the daughter of immigrants healing journey look like (and it’s probably not what you think)
If you are interested in learning about Dr. Pauline Peck and her work, here are the best ways to connect with her
Instagram, Tik Tok, and Pi...2024-04-0230 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey055: Eldest Daughter Syndrome with Israa Nasir (Oldest Daughter)Today, I am chatting with Israa Nasir. She is a mental health speaker, a psychotherapist, and a self-help author. On this episode, we’ll talk about:
Birth order and how it can influence our development and ways we connect with our families
The eldest sister profile
How to manage resentments as an eldest sister
How to set boundaries and prioritize self care to heal as an eldest sister
Eldest Daughter Syndrome Masterclass
Israa is hosting a three part masterclass on how to manage and overcome ““Eldest Daughter Syndrome”...2024-03-1942 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey054: The Birth of a Mother (Matrescence) with Kendra WilliamsToday, I am chatting with Kendra Williams. She is matrescence activist, mentor, and coach. On this episode, we’ll talk about:
What is matrescence and how it can show up in all facets of early motherhood
What areas we can be most impacted by the transition to motherhood
What value setting can look like a mother
2024-03-0542 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey053: Is Someone Crossing Your Boundaries? With Tiye ChambersThanks for listening to the "It's FINE." podcast. I am currently on maternity leave and am re-sharing my favorite nuggets of wisdom from the 2023 podcast year.
In 2024, my hope for you is to not let any limiting beliefs (see episode here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5VLsQNn1zVeSZPtnwdg2dd?si=05tzA8CyRYG3u3wfB8cnnA) keep you from the your better than fine life.
If you're interested in listening to Tiye's full interview, listen here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/325Z3Kirw8pKGE3rcCsXA7?si=Vfg19xFDQsqJrG8DcQ6VnQ2024-02-2712 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey052: Finding Your One (Not Just the One Your Parents Want For You) with Natasha MahaniThanks for listening to the "It's FINE." podcast. I am currently on maternity leave and am re-sharing my favorite nuggets of wisdom from the 2023 podcast year.
In 2024, my hope for you is to not let any limiting beliefs (see episode here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5VLsQNn1zVeSZPtnwdg2dd?si=05tzA8CyRYG3u3wfB8cnnA) keep you from the your better than fine life.
If you're interested in listening to the Natasha's full interview, listen here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3gWSsXdwO3aQxqkvRJ4YY4?si=W9gu6lkLQBK1AN...2024-02-1314 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey051: Are You Feeling Guilty for Living Your Life? with Rachel AnnThanks for listening to the "It's FINE." podcast. I am currently on maternity leave and am re-sharing my favorite nuggets of wisdom from the 2023 podcast year.
In 2024, my hope for you is to not let any limiting beliefs (see episode here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5VLsQNn1zVeSZPtnwdg2dd?si=05tzA8CyRYG3u3wfB8cnnA) keep you from the your better than fine life.
For the full episode with Rachel, listen here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5GJ9MSMEWZakhSP3HHl3p7?si=NhCuCyMxRXONQpDEeHLUeQ 2024-01-3014 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey050: Is Performing For Your Family Really Worth It? with Morgan PommellsThanks for listening to the "It's FINE." podcast. I am currently on maternity leave and am re-sharing my favorite nuggets of wisdom from the 2023 podcast year.
In 2024, my hope for you is to not let any limiting beliefs (see episode here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5VLsQNn1zVeSZPtnwdg2dd?si=05tzA8CyRYG3u3wfB8cnnA) keep you from the your better than fine life.
If you're interested in listening to Morgan's full interview, listen here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5hhc7orvURCMxIEdvtEltI?si=39551de3fca149f02024-01-1609 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey049: You Don't Earn Your Right to Joy with Katherine Morgan SchaflerThanks for listening to the "It's FINE." podcast. I am currently on maternity leave and am re-sharing my favorite nuggets of wisdom from the 2023 podcast year.
In 2024, my hope for you is to not let any limiting beliefs (see episode here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5VLsQNn1zVeSZPtnwdg2dd?si=05tzA8CyRYG3u3wfB8cnnA) keep you from the your better than fine life.
For the full episode with Katherine Morgan Schafler, listen here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3Nplkss43Ub4nxj5V9Z11n?si=YW5GRJYVQ4ab933...2024-01-0208 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey048: Don’t Bring Limiting Beliefs into 2024 with Tanya Cole LesnickToday, I am chatting with Tanya Cole-Lesnick a psychotherapist turned personal development coach with three decades of professional experience helping people to pursue lives that honor their truest selves, are clear of energetic clutter, and that they are genuinely excited to be living. On this episode, we’ll talk about:
What are limiting beliefs
The difference between limiting beliefs and realistic expectations
How to challenge our limiting beliefs with little micro steps
2023-12-2625 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey047: The Third Trimester (Prepping for Labor) with Sarah, Labor Junkie RNToday, I am chatting with Sarah of Labor Junkie RN, she is a labor and delivery nurse supporting women navigating their delivery and all things pregnancy and postpartum. On this episode, we’ll talk about:
The trials and tribulations of the final trimester
A vaginal delivery experience
How to prepare for labor
The first moments with your baby
2023-12-1945 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey046: My IVF Journey (Snippets from the Brown Girl Podcast)Today, I am chatting with me (haha, Rachel) moderated by Julie George, the creator of the Brown Girl Podcast about my IVF journey. If you’re interested in getting into the thick of our IVF/infertility story, please listen to the full interview at the Brown Girl Podcast
https://www.thebrowngirlpodcast.com/ep-46-infertility-ivf-conceiving-hope-w-rachel-varkey/.
2023-12-1223 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey045: Always the Good Girl with Ana Maria (Good Girl/Bad Girl Phenomena)Today, I am chatting with Ana Maria, a life coach who focuses on emotional literacy, mindset redesign, and healing trauma from adverse childhood experiences.
On this episode, we’ll talk about:
What it looks like to be the good girl (where it starts from, how we start to notice, and how it often benefits those who play that role)
How being the good girl can translate into bitterness, frustration, and an unfulfilled life and what to do about it
How good girls and bad girls see each other
2023-12-0541 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey044: Emotionally Immature Parents During the Holiday Season with Morgan PommellsToday, I am chatting with Morgan Pommells, MSW, a psychotherapist, writer, and doctoral researcher committed to helping anxious adults heal from their dysfunctional parents and live life on their own terms. On this episode, we’ll talk about:
What emotionally immature parents are and what a childhood with them can look like
What it can look like if we are operating from a place of safety due to a dysfunctional childhood
Why the holidays can be complicated for people with emotionally immature family members
Answers to your questions including how to manage...2023-11-2839 min
Turn Off The Ringerrelationship hot-takes, self-love and professional growth ft. Rachel VarkeyWelcome back! This week I'm back with another guest, and a super fun listen. This is your quintessential girly chat, so sit down, grab a drink and get cozy :)
On this episode, Rachel and I dive into our relationship hot-takes, how you can find "the one," setting boundaries at work and MORE. When life feels tough and complicated and frustrating, a little perspective from someone in a different phase of life can be so helpful! As I chat with Rachel and answer your questions, my hope is that you can see life from a...2023-11-2237 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey043: Cool Girls in Cool Cities with Jane KoToday, I am chatting with Jane Ko, is the Austin food blogger behind A Taste of Koko®, Austin’s top food and travel blog, and has been blogging since 2010. On this episode, we’ll talk about:
Jane’s story and her laser focus on building Taste of Koko
How we can evolve as women even when it comes to being cool
How cool and authenticity work hand in hand
2023-11-1426 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey042: Ask Us Anything with Esha Pathak (20s vs. 30s, Gen Z vs. Millennial)I’m chatting with Esha Pathak from the Turn Off the Ringer Podcast to answer your questions about us and our 20s vs. 30s perspective on life, love, and everything in between.
For Part 2 of this episode, visit Esha's podcast, Turn Off the Ringer: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/turn-off-the-ringer/id1630853999. 2023-11-0644 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey041: Building Community as a Grown Up with Bob MathewI am chatting with Bob Mathew. He is a real estate agent based here in Austin, TX. He has a passion for building community wherever he is, and I am lucky to be a part of his local community groups here in Austin!
On this episode, we’ll talk about:
Why we shouldn’t be afraid to initiate and invite
Why expanding our friendship circles can help support the other key relationships in our life
How friendships can evolve with competing priorities
How to build ethnic community and share your cu...2023-10-3141 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey040: Thriving with High Functioning Anxiety with Nadia FioritaI am chatting with Nadia Fiorita, a therapist who specializes in anxiety, to talk about how we live with high functioning anxiety.
On this episode, we’ll talk about:
What high functioning anxiety looks like
How you can combat anxiety with balance
The power of saying no
Tips to manage through high functioning anxiety2023-10-2434 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey039: Creating Body Values from Within (Decolonizing Yoga) with Divya BalakrishnanToday, I am chatting with Divya Balakrishnan, a yoga educator, and lifestyle blogger.
On this episode, we’ll talk about:
Changing our physical practice from outcomes driven to internal motivation
How our body ideals and ways to change are often layered with Western ideals and how to challenge those beliefs
How to challenge yourself to build internal values around your health and wellness2023-10-1733 min
The Brown Girl PodcastEp 46 - Infertility, IVF, & Conceiving Hope w/ Rachel Varkey
In episode 46, Julie meets with her friend Rachel Varkey, also the host of the It's Fine Podcast with Rachel Varkey.
Rachel opens up about her experiences with infertility and the various treatment options she underwent to pursue a path toward motherhood. We learn about:
Rachel's background and desires for motherhood growing up
Process she underwent with IUI and IVF and what you can expect
Impact of infertility on her marriage and how she and her husband coped
Advice for those who are struggling with conception
How we can create a more supportive and empathetic c...2023-10-111h 17IT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey038: The Second Trimester with Dr. Ali Rodriguez (Pregnancy Series)Today, I am chatting with Dr. Ali Rodriguez, OBGYN and lifestyle blogger, educating women about their health and their bodies
On this episode, we’ll talk about:
Our 2nd trimester symptoms
Pregnancy weight gain and exercise
Feeling our babies move! (and why I haven’t yet)
For my own pregnancy, I am doing a series called "Is This Normal?" for each stage of the Pregnancy Journey (Trying, 1st/2nd/3rd/Postpartum) to help womxn feel less alone on their journey of having a baby.2023-10-1037 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey037: Will I Ever Be Able to Buy a House with Cherie Smith (1st Time Homebuyers)Today, I am talking with Cherie Smith, an Austin Realtor and Director of Sales for JKB Realty Group. On this episode, we’ll talk about:
Breaking down some of the homebuying misconceptions
Some of the core areas for financing your home (including a discussion on Sept 2023 interest rates, home prices)
First time home buyers “sacrifices” and how to manage through it2023-09-1935 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey036: Are They *Really “The One”, Surviving Cultural Pressure on Your Relationship with Natasha MahtaniI am talking to Natasha Mahtani, relationship & divorce coach. She helps women, globally, to increase their sense of self-worth, show up for themselves, identify and rewire their limiting beliefs and thrive in all relationships.
On this episode, we talk about:
How to deconstruct finding the “one” (your soulmate)
Handling the expectations people place on what “your one” should look like
Managing difficult conversations with family who don’t agree with you on your relationship
Knowing when a relationship is over2023-09-1231 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey035: Living with ADHD with Janelle HettickToday, I am chatting with Janelle Hettick, a therapist who specializes in ADHD and also lives with ADHD, anxiety, and depression.
On this episode, we’ll talk about:
How ADHD may manifest for women
What challenges ADHD can bring for adults
How to share your ADHD diagnosis with your community2023-09-0529 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey034: Living with Depression with Amanda ArmstrongToday, I am talking to Amanda Armstrong, a neuroscience and trauma-informed
anxiety & depression coach and Founder of Rise As We, a mental health coaching space.
On this episode, we talk about:
Depression from the lens of the nervous system (Polyvagal Theory)
What it looks like for our nervous system to go from regulated, to not
What high functioning depression can look like
And why self regulation can be helpful in managing depression2023-08-2931 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey033: I'm PREGNANT - My First Trimester (Pregnancy after IVF, + Bonus TTC Tips) with Teale KelleyToday, I am chatting with Teale Kelley (@tealekelleyy), a Fertility Nurse Coordinator. She also is a surrogate and has been sharing her story online!
On this episode, we’ll talk about:
Our personal experiences being pregnant via IVF
What the first trimester looks like and some of the things we worry about (miscarriage being the biggest)
The science behind getting pregnant and some tips to help you get there
I split this episode into two parts - depending on what you'd like to listen to! If you're more interested in my first trimester, go ahead and start at the top. If yo...2023-08-1543 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey032: Desi Women Dating Non-Desi Men with Disha Mazepa (Interracial Relationships)Today, I am talking to Disha Mazepa, host of But What Will People Say, a South Asian interracial relationship and lifestyle podcast and the founder of Disha Mazepa Designs.
On this episode, we talk about:
How our types can transcend what we imagine for ourselves
Our relationships with our parents impact how we choose our partners
Brown girl guilt and the power of fighting against it with risk taking and value setting2023-08-0836 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey031: Grieving Your Past (Inner Child Work) with Elaine EvansToday, I am talking to Elaine Evans, a trauma informed therapist committed to
bringing peace to the past and confidence to the present.
On this episode, we’ll talk about:
What does grief look like, especially in moments of transition
Why grieving your past is important, especially for your inner child
Why we might want to consider how and why we are confronting people for the bad things they did for us2023-08-0138 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey030: Changing in a Relationship with Kim Polinder (Breakup Advice)Today, I am chatting with Kim Polinder, founder of the Polinder Coaching Group. She has been counseling for over 10 years and utilizing tools from Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Inner Child work.
On this episode, we’ll talk all about:
Using values to determine if a relationship is unhealthy
How sometimes we step into relationships because of learned behavior from our past
Some of the things couple can do to heal in their relationships
What happens when you decide to move on and breakup2023-07-2535 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey029: I Think I Might Be Burned Out with Nina Nesdoly (Burnout, Career Advice)Today, I am talking to Nina Nesdoly, she is a stress and burnout prevention speaker and researcher. She advocates for work-life balance and believes it is possible to be a high-achiever at work without burning out or letting stress take over.
On this episode, we’ll talk about:
What burnout actually is and where you experience it
How to think about your life responsibilities as balls of glass and rubber
How to consider self compassion as a way to avoid burnout
How to set boundaries in the workplace
If you’re interested in learning more about the “it’s fine” community, visit...2023-07-1829 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey028: Boundaries with Tiye ChambersI am talking to Tiye Chamber, a life coach dedicated to empowering individuals to live their best lives by helping people connect the dots of toxic behavior and create healthy boundaries.
On this episode, we’ll talk about:
Where why we might lack boundaries
How to set boundary foundations
Some of the tactics people use to cross our boundaries
What’s at risk if we don’t set boundaries
If you are interested in learning more about Tiye Chambers and her work on boundaries, she has a course called “Boundaries Foundation.” You can learn more on her website https://bio.site/Boundary.2023-07-1131 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey027: Am I A Perfectionist with Katherine Morgan SchaflerToday, I am talking to Katherine Morgan Schafler the author of THE PERFECTIONIST’S GUIDE TO LOSING CONTROL. In her words, Katherine works with people who can present really well, seem completely put together when they want to be, and whose problems are not immediately apparent to others.
On this episode, we’ll talk about:
Katherine’s reframe on what perfectionism means to her - and how different it may look to mainstream media
The five perfectionist personas and the pros/cons of each
A universal thing we all do to deny ourselves of our right to joy2023-06-2035 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey026: It’s Father’s Day with Peter Mutabazi (Foster Care, Adoption, and Single Parenting as a Man)Today, I am talking to Peter Mutabazi, foster care and adoption advocate and author of “Now I Am Known”. Peter is a single parent who has fostered 32 young people. I was drawn to his story, and I am excited to share his journey to parenthood and the lessons he’s learned along the way.
On this episode, we talk about:
Peter’s journey to fatherhood
The challenges of fostering and adoption
And how we can support folks who are called to fostering and adoption2023-06-1335 min
But What Will People SayIt's Fine, But Is It Really? with Rachel VarkeySend us a textRachel joins me to chat all the ways we avoid saying that maybe we're not fine? Or maybe we're better than fine? We're definitely fine and having fun and here to help you find a way to be more authentic and confidently move in the direction of your dreams. Subscribe to the It's Fine Podcast Follow Rachel on IG @RachelVarkey & @ItsFineThePodBWWPS Guest ApplicationDishaMazepa.comSHOP: Disha Mazepa Designs on EtsyBe sure to SUBSCRIBE & LEAVE US A REVIEW if you enjoyed the show. Follow m...2023-06-071h 09IT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey025: Loving Your Body at Any Size with Benina Caviggiola (Body Neutrality, Mid-Size Fashion)Today, I am talking to Benina Caviggiola, the creator of the Mama Knows Podcast and creator of Balkanina, where she shares lifestyle, fashion, and DIY tips.
On this episode, we’ll talk about:
Our changing bodies and biggest insecurities
How we can change our goals for our bodies
Trends for mid-size bodies that you should rock this summer!
If you’re interested in learning more about IT’S FINE, check us out on Instagram and Tik Tok @itsfinethepod.2023-06-0629 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey024: Mom Guilt with Kate McReynolds (Mom Guilt Advice)Today, I am chatting with Kate McReynolds, LMHC. She is the creator of the mom therapist on Instagram and is a licensed professional clinical counselor.
On this episode, we’ll talk about:
How we get to mommy guilt
What mommy guilt is and how we can reframe it
Whether or not we think our kids will need therapy
How to find peace in mommy guilt and have meaningful relationships with our kids2023-05-3034 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey023: I'm 68, Single, and Don't Have Kids with JoAnn Hummel (Self Love, Acceptance Advice)Today, I am talking with Dr. JoAnn Hummel, a pastor, teacher, and leader who has served at a large church in Carrollton, TX for over 30 years. She is single and does not have any biological children.
On this episode, we’ll talk about:
The challenges of being single when you’re in your late 60s and the lessons she's learned along the way
Where JoAnn finds her confidence as a single person
What married people don’t realize about single people
r Tik Tok2023-05-2327 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey022: Should I Have Kids with Merle Bombardieri (Baby Decision, Child Free Life)Today, I am chatting with Merle Bombardieri, author of ‘The Baby Decision’, and a clinical social worker and psychotherapist of over 30 years. She specializes in parenthood decision-making, infertility, adoption, and making the most of a childfree life.
On this episode, we’ll talk about:
Why it’s important to make the ‘baby decision’ - childfree or parenthood
The myth of only children
The tug of war between couples making the ‘baby decision’
If you’re interested in learning more about IT’S FINE., check us out on Instagram and Tik Tok @itsfinethepod.2023-05-1636 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey021: Motherhood after Infertility with Jesse Brown (Failed IVF, IUIs, and Adoption)I am chatting with a woman’s podcast and story who encouraged me in the ups/downs of my fertility journey - Jesse Brown. She is the creator of Uniquely Knitted. Uniquely Knitted is a registered 501(c)(3) Non-Profit on a mission to heal the traumas of infertility and end the isolation that goes with struggling to conceive. They do that by running process groups for those affected by infertility.
On this episode, we’ll talk about:
Jesse’s non-traditional way of becoming a mom
What infertility can be like for those who want to become moms
Jesse’s tip for maintainin...2023-05-0933 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey020: Real Talk with a Brown Mom with Anita MannancherilToday, I am chatting with a mother I admire so much - Anita Mannancheril. Anita is an extremely accomplished board certified Family Medicine physician in New Jersey, my cousin, and has been a big sister to me as I navigated my journey to motherhood.
On this episode, we talk about:
Anita’s approach to mom guilt
Building boundaries as a brown mom
And the biggest its fine thing happening to her now
If you’re interested in learning more about IT’S FINE, check us out on Instagram and Tik Tok @itsfinethepod.2023-05-0229 min
The Creative Edition PodcastMeet Rachel and her story starting the It's Fine PodcastToday I'm chatting my friend/fellow podcaster Rachel Varkey from IT'S FINE Podcast. Rachel is a content creator/podcaster who is at the very beginning of her podcast career. She shares with us her process of launching her podcast as well as what was happening with her life. I ask her questions like:How did you decide on the name “IT’S FINE” and the mission statement?What made you decide that it was finally the right time to launch?What motivates you to connect with your podcast guests/audience?Tune in to hear our conv...2023-04-2542 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey019: It's My 31st Birthday (Solo Episode) - 5 Lessons From a Recent 30 Year OldIt’s my birthday this week! Today, you’re hearing from me. Me, myself, and I. For those new to the podcast, my name is Rachel Varkey, I am a podcast host, a marketer, a wife, a daughter, sister, a dog mama, and friend to many.
On this episode, you’ll be learning about the five things I’ve learned since my last birthday!
If you’re interested in learning more about me, follow me on Instagram @rachelvarkey.2023-04-2515 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey018: The Problem with Purity Culture with Erica SmithToday, I am talking to Erica Smith, an award winning sexuality educator. In 2019, she developed the Purity Culture Dropout™️ Program to help people learn all of the sex education that they missed growing up in purity culture- sex ed that is accurate, queer inclusive, trauma informed, compassionate, and comprehensive.
On this episode, we’ll talk about:
The common blockers to having a healthy sex
Debunking some common misconceptions from purity culture including
First time sex
Masturbation
Partnered sex
Sharing a ton of tips and personal stories around discovering your own personal pleasure2023-04-1827 min
Secrets of the Career GameEp 8: Being your Authentic SelfIn this Episode: Women in Tech How to show up authentically at work About our Guest: Today we’re talking about how to be successful as a Woman in Tech with Podcast Host Rachel Varkey of “It’s Fine” the podcast geared towards helping women live a life that is better than fine. About Our Host: Kendall is a career progression and leadership coach known as "That Career Coach" across social media. She has helped 100s of clients across various industries and levels of experience with their career na...2023-04-1137 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey017: Playing the Corporate Game (Career Advice, Workplace Advice) with Kendall BergToday, I am talking to Kendall Berg, That Career Coach. She has been coaching for over 6 years with a passion for transforming insecurity into stability and confidence.
On this episode, we’ll talk about:
What the corporate game is and how to play it
Why building relationships are so critical to success at work
How to navigate difficult relationships and promotions in the workplace
How to get value out of your work
If you’re interested in learning more about Kendall, you can find her on Instagram at @_thatcareercoach.2023-04-1131 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey016: Should I Move? (Moving Advice) with Julie GeorgeToday, I am talking to Julie George, creator of the Brown Girl podcast, a podcast that elevates voices, stories, and perspectives of the South Asian diaspora.
On this episode, we’ll talk about:
How moving can help you learn about yourself
How waiting for approval is probably not a good use of your time
Julie’s advice for navigating moving to a new place including
“Embracing the suck”
Living in a “vibey place”
Putting yourself in uncomfortable places
Using your connectors
The do it anyway approach
How to tell your parents you’re going to move
If you’re interested in learning more...2023-04-0433 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey015: Dating Can Be Challenging (Dating Advice) with Ali JacksonToday, I am talking to Ali Jackson, 35-year-old dating & relationship coach living in NYC who’s been there, in the trenches, looking for her person. On this episode, we’ll talk about Ali’s journey dating and supporting other womxn looking to find their person.
On this episode, we’ll talk about:
How we need to consider if the things we’re looking for in our partner are actually serving me
Why finding your person should feel more like them fitting into your life, not the other way around
How we aren’t meant to be on timelines
And so many tips!
I...2023-03-2835 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey014: Childhood Pals with Diviya Mathai and Dilya Baz (Friendship Advice)A different kind of episode. One of my secrets to living beyond fine, and the thread across all the experts and conversations I’ve had this season - is community. On this episode, you’ll hear me chat with two of my oldest friends, Diviya Mathai and Dilya Baz, where we talk about what has kept us friends for 30 years and counting.
What we think the secret is to keeping lifelong friendships and starting new friendships
What we think about “busy-ness” when it comes to friendship
How to make adjustments for friendship in busy seasons and transitions in life
A juicy mo...2023-03-2138 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey013: Transitioning to a Side Hustle with Emma Cortes (Career Transition Advice, Entrepreneurship)Are you itching to make your side hustle your main hustle? I chat with Emma Cortes, Seattle Content Creator and Founder of Emma’s Edition to talk about how she transitioned from a six year career in corporate America to building her own brand. In this episode, we’ll talk about:
How immigrant kids can struggle with transitioning to non-traditional careers
How to prep your support system for making the transition to main hustle
Practical tips on how to make the transition from side to main hustle including tips to stay balanced
How to stay motivated and deal with the hate...2023-03-1429 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey012: Loving Your Body (Body Confidence, Body Neutrality) with Tina NaiduIs it possible to actually love your body? I talk with Tina Naidu (@fit2frolic), a NASM Certified Personal Trainer and Nutrition Coach, on how her journey to loving her body and helping other women love theirs.
On this episode, we talk about:
Tina’s journey to getting to loving her body
How other people’s opinions about our bodies shouldn’t determine if we love them
Some tips for building body neutrality and positivity, even when you have goals to change your body
Tina has such a fun energy around how to love and feel confident in your body. Are yo...2023-03-0728 min
IT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey011: Finding Your Big A (Career Advice) with Deanna FiguritoHow do women uplevel in their careers? In this episode, I chat with Deanna Figurito, Founder and Lead Coach of DFig Connects Coaching, about how women can leverage executive coaching to achieve the big dreams and goals in their life. In this episode, we’ll talk about:
Why career coaching can help a woman up level in her professional and personal life
Determining what fulfillment looks like for you by creating a personal mission statement
What are the “saboteurs” or the limiting briefs that hold you back from living the life of your dreams
If you're interested in digging a little...2023-02-2824 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey010: Do I Love Myself (Advice for Self-Love, Self-Discovery)Have you done the work of self discovery? Today, I am talking to Ribicca Mamuye, the founder and creator of amromenor.com about all things self-love, self-discovery, and learning how to love yourself.
On this episode, we’ll talk about:
The power of self discovery and why we often define our worth by the roles we play and how good we are at them
Why solo dating can unlock exploring and discovering the things you love
How to start figuring out who you really are (and trying to forget about other people’s timelines for your life)
If you'd like to l...2023-02-2127 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey009: *My Marriage* with Charles SamuelCurious about my lifelong relationship? I’m chatting with Charles Samuel, my partner in life, where we discuss what our marriage has looked like in building a life that is better than fine.
In this episode, we’ll talk about:
Why we think individuality is critical to partnership
How important it is to play to your strengths (and why we sometimes we hold our partner to our assumptions about them)
Why not to compare your relationship to someone else's
If you’re interested in learning more about the It’s FINE. community, visit my website rachelvarkey.com or follow me on Instag...2023-02-1433 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey008: Am I *Really* Beautiful? with Raven RobertsDo you really feel beautiful? In this episode, I chat with Raven Roberts, celebrity fashion stylist, about how she’s found ways to feel beautiful, and also help others connect to their beauty within. We talk about:
How beauty standards can be very narrow, especially for women of color
How to find moments of being beautiful
A secret tip for confidence
If you’re interested in learning more about Raven, you can find her on Instagram @_ravenroberts.2023-02-0726 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey007: Acne Sucks with Nicole LaCroixAs someone who had a lot of acne, especially in my 20s, I know debilitating not feeling good skin can do to the way you show up in the world. On this episode, I’m chatting with Nicole LaCroix, Founder of Nicole LaCroix Skin Care, to talk about our acne and what we can do about it. We’ll talk about:
What acne is and what are some of the triggers are for acne that you might not know about
How what you put on your skin makes a big difference for your acne
How it might be easier than you...2023-01-3123 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey006: Believing You Can Do It (Even When No One Believes You Can) with Maryanne J. GeorgeHow do you navigate a life of influence with confidence? I’m talking with Maryanne J. George, Christian worship leader/songwriter/musician, about how she’s been able to navigate a life as an artist, while balancing the challenges, expectations, and story of being a brown woman.
On this episode, we’ll talk about:
How hard it can to believe in yourself and the inner voices that hold you back
How to begin imagining that you can change and evolve into the person you desire to be
The differences between the way men and women believe in the...2023-01-2430 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey005: My Trauma is Showing with Rachel DelgadoLet’s talk about our childhood trauma. No, really. I talk with associate Rachel Delgado, associate director of First Loved Ministries, about the way we experience our trauma as adults and how we can start dealing with it. In this episode, we’ll talk about:
- How trauma manifests in our adult lives
- How to start managing our trauma and the absolute importance of it for our adult relationships
- A simple practice to start noticing trauma responses in your day to day life
If you’re interested in learning about First Loved Ministries, visit https://www.firstlovedministries.org/.2023-01-1731 min
IT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey004: Breaking the Silence on Sexual Violence with Ciji WagnerYou’re not alone if you are a victim of sexual violence. In this episode, I chat with Ciji Wagner, executive director of non-profit Louder Than Silence, a non-profit for survivors of sexual violence, where we talk about how people who experience sexual violence can find support and find ways to navigate their experiences. In this episode, we talk about:
- How sexual violence appeared in Ciji’s life and what brought her to get help
- Why it’s so hard to get the emotional and physical support you need to get the support you need
- How to find t...2023-01-1029 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey003: Fertility Struggles with Sadie MinkoffBuilding a family can be more than complicated, which is why we need to build the right team to support us, not just in getting our baby, but the journey that gets us there. I’m talking to Sadie Minkoff, L.Ac., FABORM, clinical director of the largest reproductive acupuncture practice in central Texas, Sage Acupuncture. On this episode, we’ll talk about
Why infertility might not be right word for those navigating building their families
The concept of “work” in our fertility struggles
How building your team can be so important to get through a season of infertility
If you are...2023-01-0322 min
IT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey002: Oh, Sh*T, I Have Anxiety with Jyothi JamesDo you really know what anxiety looks like? And do you think you should do something about it? In this episode, I chat with Jyothi James, a licensed mental health counselor and trained EMDR therapist. She provides both individual and group counseling for adults who suffer from anxiety and traumatic experiences. We talk about:
What anxiety looks like and how it can manifest both physically and emotionally in our lives
How our life story may play a big role in how anxiety is at play in our life
How starting a mediation practice can help make micro change...2023-01-0126 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey001: From Surviving to Thriving with Rachel AnnCan I *actually* live the life of my dreams? I’m talking with Rachel Ann, a holistic life coach in New York City, on how we can transition our lives from surviving to thriving. In this episode, we’ll talk about:
On why we may feel so much pressure to live the lives and expectations of others
How sometimes these expectations don’t match our true self and how to spot if you’re living in a false sense of self
How to balance our societal and family expectations and discover our true selves to live the life of our d...2023-01-0128 minIT'S FINE. with Rachel Varkey000: Podcast TrailerLook — we’re all guilty of it. It’s so much easier to slap an “it’s fine” on a tough situation than deal with it. On “It’s Fine” with Rachel Varkey, we’re going to name the many things we put our “it’s fine’s” on and start talking about it. It’s going to get real, it’s probably going to get ugly, but Rachel isn’t afraid to shed light on the real things that are holding us back, the shit that stands in our way, and remind you, “it’s really not fine.” 2022-12-3001 min
Dr. Deen's Mind VoiceEpisode 4 : എന്താണ് സുരേഷ് ഗോപി ചെയ്ത തെറ്റ്..?Kaaval (2021 film) Kaaval (transl. Guard) is a 2021 Indian Malayalam-language action thriller film written and directed by Nithin Renji Panicker. Produced by Joby George under the banner of Goodwill Entertainments, the film stars Suresh Gopi and Renji Panicker in the lead roles. Ranjin Raj composes the film's original score and soundtrack, and Nikhil S. Praveen is its cinematographer. Whilst film received positive reviews from critics, most consider it Suresh Gopi's thundering return to lead roles in Malayalam Cinema, reminiscent of the 80s and 90s.
Thampan (Suresh Gopi) and Antony (Renji Panicker) are a long time best friends and busin...2021-12-0510 min
Old-School: The Skills That Made Us & How They’re ChangingDo Children Sit Too Many Standardised Tests?
Ms Jeanne Allen, Ms Susan Hopgood, Mr Ross McGill, Professor Jo Ritzen and Dame Rachel De Souza debate whether students are sitting too many standardised tests.
#GESF @VarkeyFDN
2019-10-3057 min