Shows
Rachael's UniverseMerry Christmas!! w/ my brother JadonA 10-year-old's favorite part of Christmas, and how this year will be different. Zoom Christmas anyone?
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2024-05-2606 min
Rachael's UniverseSo I'm on antidepressants now...My experience on an SSRI, why I wish I tried it sooner, and realizing that taking medicine doesn't make me weak.
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2024-05-2607 minRachael's UniverseHow I Started Traveling at 18Iceland, Cross Country, Canada...Just going for it, independence, so much research. An overview of how I travel on a budget.
Instagram @rachaeluniverse
Intro/Outro Song: Track: A Breath of Fresh Air — Artificial.Music [Audio Library Release] Music provided by Audio Library Plus Watch: https://youtu.be/YvKGhtg_chYFree Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/breath-fresh-air
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2024-05-2609 min
Rachael's UniverseFriendships post college, healing, and staying true to who you are feat. Natalie and GabriellaThis is the first episode of the series, Pillowtalk, where Natalie, Gabriella, and I talk candidly about navigating life. In this episode we touch on how our friendships have evolved over our time in college, what our hopes for the future are, and the importance of not losing ourselves in friendships. Enjoy!
Support my blog and this podcast by "buying" me a "coffee" at https://ko-fi.com/rachaelsuniverse
Instagram: @summituppodcast & @rachaeluniverse
Blog: rachaelsuniverse.com
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2024-05-2620 min
Rachael's UniverseKate’s Weird First Dates feat. KateIs it weird to not have a boyfriend in college? Do you have to get engaged by graduation? Which dating app is the best? Relationships are complicated. It can be beautiful, confusing, magical, awkward, horrible...all at the same time. There are few things more awkward than a weird first date. Join me and my special guest, Kate, as she shares some of her best first date stories. We talk about qualities we look for in people, our types, red flags, and so much more.
Support my blog and this podcast by "buying" me a "coffee" at h...
2024-05-261h 14
Rachael's UniverseLife as a Girl with ADHD feat. NatalieADHD often goes underdiagnosed in girls, because the disorder presents differently, the symptoms are often more subtle, and they don’t fit the stereotype. Because of this, many girls often live without getting support and help that could aid them in their daily activities. Natalie and I were both diagnosed with ADHD during our early college years. In this episode, we talk about our experience growing up with ADHD, coping, comorbidities, misdiagnosing, and how getting the right support can change everything.
Support my blog and this podcast by "buying" me a "coffee" at https://ko-fi.com/rachaelsuniverse...
2024-05-2633 min
Rachael's UniverseThis is how cats SHOULD be boarded: Everything that goes into running a luxury feline hotel feat. SoHoCatsAt the beginning of this semester, I discovered SoHoCats, a luxury feline hotel. Call me a crazy cat lady, but now I visit SoHoCats at least once a week. SoHoCats is a luxury feline hotel run by two awesome women, Alissa and Sharon. With a combined 35+ years of experience, Alissa and Sharon run a safe, fun, and unique boarding space for our feline friends. Join me as I talk with Alissa and Sharon about their history with cats, how they started their business, and the ins and outs of running a successful luxury feline hotel.
Support my b...
2024-05-2630 min
Rachael's UniverseAnorexia, therapy, abuse in relationships, and all things mental illness feat. LydiaMental health. It’s a touchy subject to talk about, especially when we look at how it is perceived compared to physical illnesses, such as the flu. They both affect lives and require treatment and rest, but only one is always seen as legitimate. In this episode, I have a conversation with a friend about all things mental health. We dive into what we struggle with, how people helped or didn’t help us, and the perceptions towards certain illnesses and medication. With mental illnesses that can often be hidden within our minds, it is easy to believe that we a...
2024-05-261h 18
Rachael's UniverseLessons from a Convicted MurdererToday's episode is different. Join Rachal and I as we talk to my friend, Santos, who is currently incarcerated for murder. Santos is a dear friend, and we thought this podcast was a great opportunity to share his experience, and show people how it may differ from their idea of prison. Tune in to hear about what landed Santos a life sentence in prison, preparing for parole, his opinion on drugs, and the biggest lesson he has learned in his 16 years locked up.
Support my blog and this podcast by "buying" me a "coffee" at https://ko-fi.co...
2024-05-2627 min
Rachael's Universedeleting social media and spending free time well ft. an unexpected callHey guys, welcome to another PillowTalk episode! As always, recorded from the lovely bed of Gabriella, today we talk where we are at in college or post grad, how we spend our free time, and the effect of technology on our lives. Also, I get a special and unexpected call...
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2024-05-2648 min
Rachael's UniverseOops...an interruption episode. And a CAT HOTEL!A small disclaimer, a 4 p.m. coffee run, Rachal being a simp, and a quick drug update. Hey guys, this episode is a bit out of order because it technically comes after the next three scheduled Bad and Bothered episodes, but some things just had to be said. OH, and I visited a cat hotel. How fun. SoHo Cats Luxury Feline Hotel. It's amazing.
Support my blog and this podcast by "buying" me a "coffee" at https://ko-fi.com/rachaelsuniverse
Instagram: @rachaelsuniversepod & @summituppodcast & @rachaeluniverse
Blog: rachaelsuniverse.com
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2024-05-2638 min
Rachael's Universefalse vulnerability, joining vs. dragging, and our enneagrams!Welcome back to PillowTalk Ep. 2!! Today we bring you some more thoughts about friendships and growth, false vulnerability, and we go deep into our enneagrams. We discuss how to best support friends, and are joined by a special guest, Fae. Enjoy!
Support my blog and this podcast by "buying" me a "coffee" at https://ko-fi.com/rachaelsuniverse
Instagram: @rachaelsuniversepod & @rachaeluniverse
Blog: rachaelsuniverse.com
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2024-05-2642 min
Solfate Podcast - Interviews with blockchain founders/builders on SolanaState compression, Gum protocol, and on-chain session (feat. Shek)Follow the @SolfatePod show on Twitter for updates. Thanks for listening frens :)Notes from the showJames is out for the week, but Nick is joined by Shek, the founder of Worcel and the Gum protocol.Shek shares his reasoning for founding Wordcel, the Solana native blogging platform. And how that later evolved into the Gum protocol.We dive into some of the more technical aspects oh how Wordcel works under the hood, and the potential scaling issues of indexing the Gum protocol once it uses State Compression....
2023-04-0340 min
The Shek CheckGrief: Somewhere Only We KnowGrief is known by many names- sadness, joy, anger, love, fear...just to mention a few. It is experienced & felt in ways that are unique to each of us and our relationship to the people, places or things that we are grieving. While many voices in this world want to help by claiming that they are grief "experts", and while others are pathologizing grief or making up "stages of grief" to follow- at its core they cannot because grief is somewhere only we know- once we know it.Confused? Intrigued? Triggered? Curious? All is welcome wh...
2022-10-1010 min
The Shek CheckAnxiety, Horror Movies & ReliefWhat if we met our anxiety WITH anxiety? When we struggle with anxious feelings and thoughts we usually look for control and certainty to calm down- but what if we don't need to calm down? What if our anxious feelings and thoughts don't need our calmness but to be rerouted instead? What if we in order to better handle our anxiety- we shifted the focus of our ruminations and intrusive thoughts to something...less personal than ourselves?In this episode Erez explores this and how it has shown up in his journey with anxiety.
2022-08-1910 min
The Shek CheckAnger: All the Cool Kids Are Feeling ItThere are a lot of messages regarding anger and feeling angry. Being told it is bad, negative, and that it will drain you of your goodness. Hearing messages telling you to “manage" your anger or the importance to "calm down" when you are feeling angry. What if that was bullsh*t? At least some of the time.What if anger was not the dark violent storm you were taught it is? What if anger was actually the clarity to guide you in the storm? It is true that our emotions carry energy within us- so how can we...
2022-07-2208 min
The Shek CheckStability: The RemixFor many people "stability" has been positioned as something we reach. Something we work towards or work for. A place we reach or find. How has that worked for you? While stability is officially defined as a quality, state or degree of being stable- what if we threw a wrench in that broad definition? What if you found a new understanding of stability- one that is entirely yours? Stability....the remix. Stability....YOUR remix. Have you checked in with The Shek Check on social media? Give us a follow. Twitter: https...
2022-04-2006 min
The Shek CheckBurnout, Being Human, & BeyondIf you are human than you have most likely experienced burn out in some form (in your form). So, what conversation are you having with yourself regarding burnout? What does it look like for you? How compassionate are you towards yourself when you are burnt out? How much of a human are you allowing yourself to be? How are you moving beyond? In this episode Erez talks about his recent experiences with burnout, his eventual acceptance of his human-ness and how moving beyond meant leaving a lot of unknowns and uncertainty in the past. Check-In w...
2022-04-0610 min
Rachael's UniverseSUMMIT UP! Canyon Overlook, Zion National Park.The easiest hike you can take your grandparents on, Bighorn Sheep, and making John Muir proud.
Instagram @rachaeluniverse
Song by David Mumford, and PBS The National Parks Theme Song
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2022-03-2406 min
Rachael's UniverseSUMMIT UP! One More Step: Through Hiking a Section of the Appalachian TrailFirst episode of my "Summit Up!" series, where I talk about mainly hikes, but also anything else in the great outdoors. This is an excerpt from "One More Step: Through Hiking a Section of the Appalachian Trail" and a reflection on Patagonia's "Nose to the Wind".
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2022-03-2402 min
Rachael's UniverseSUMMIT UP! Mount Katahdin, MaineEverything you need to know about hiking the Northern Terminus of the Appalachian Trail: What to expect, what to wear, and of course, pushing yourself out of your comfort zone.
Instagram: @rachaeluniverse
Read about hiking Mount Katahdin on my blog rachaelsuniverse.com
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2022-03-2412 min
Rachael's UniverseSUMMIT UP! Our Hipcamp Experience: TranqvilliumFUN EPISODE! This is where dreams blur with reality. What is real and what isn't? Is Hipcamp reliable?Why is a Russian man showing me the inside of a potato shaped sauna filled with gems in the middle of the desert? I have so many questions. Instagram: @rachaeluniverse
I spend so much time editing this episode and I'm very proud of it. Lot's of sound effects and audio from the night...
This is a re-upload be Spotify took this down for some reason?
Music: The Music of Red Dead Redemption by Bill Elm...
2022-03-2420 min
Rachael's UniverseSUMMIT UP! Welch & Dickey Loop: Thornton, New HampshireBad hiking puns and getting stung by a bee. And as always, hiking out of your comfort zone.
Instagram: @rachaeluniverse & @summituppodcast
Blog: rachaelsuniverse.com
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2022-03-2407 min
Rachael's UniverseSUMMIT UP! The Wave: Kanab, UtahThere was a 2% chance of getting a permit to hike this last year. How did I do it? Everything you need to know about hiking to the infamous "Wave" of Utah without a normal map. Yes I got lost. 6 miles lost to be exact.
Support my blog and this podcast by "buying" me a "coffee" at https://ko-fi.com/rachaelsuniverse
Instagram: @summituppodcast & @rachaeluniverse
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2022-03-2419 min
The Shek CheckEpisode 100: F*CK GOALSHave we missed the point of understanding what drives us instead of where we are driving to? Goals Vs. ValuesWe live in a very goal and milestone centric society. We teach it in our schools and homes. They show up in our relationships, our work, our friendships, our families. They drive competitions and fuel comparison culture. There is an importance to having goals and milestones- they are destination points. Even though they keep moving and changing they serve us as motivation factors.The question is, are we going where we really want...
2021-07-1612 min
Soul Nectar Show with Kerri HummingbirdSelf Check with Erez ShekErez Shek lost himself to the diagnosis of bipolar. He became depressed, felt like his life lost meaning, and although his doctors were saying different pills could fix it, what Erez was going through was deeper than all that. He has lost belief in himself. He scheduled his own death, and used his bipolar medication to take his life. Thank goodness it did not work.
Now Erez hosts the Shek Check podcast where he inspires others to adopt self awareness and fact check themselves often. Erez is passionate about highlighting guests with lived experiences and knowledge to i...
2021-06-1354 min
The Shek CheckCheckin' Internalized Toxic PositivityWhat is toxic positivity? Toxic positivity is the belief that no matter how crappy something is, no matter what uncomfortable emotions we are feeling, no matter what the situation is- people need to find the “positive” side things and find a more positive mindset. The phrase “toxic positivity” has been popping up a lot lately, a lot more than it had been. Yet, it has always existed- the thinking has always existed. We are just calling it what it is now. Sometimes it is really obvious when toxic positivity shows up in the language or actions of...
2021-05-2813 min
The Shek CheckRebecca Kennedy: Journey to Body PositivityBody image issues are more common than we think and more than we openly discuss. The fitness and diet culture remind us of this constantly. Rebecca Kennedy has lived through the toxic side of those issues and that culture and now she is changing it by example. Rebecca Kennedy is a ACSM Certified Personal Trainer & NASM Corrective Exercise Specialist based in downtown Orlando, Florida. After struggling with being overweight (borderline obese) the majority of her life, she jumped into the fitness world head first - not knowing at all how toxic and extreme the fitness f...
2021-05-1448 min
The Shek CheckUnderstanding the Inner CriticThe inner critic is what we call that inner voice that judges, criticizes and shames us. The thoughts surrounding actions, interactions, reactions, our choices and our behaviors- which can be harsh. We might hate on the inner critic for screwing with our self-esteem and our confidence, so in our self-awareness journey we might be convinced to get rid of the inner critic and those thoughts. Is that ultimately helpful though? Plot twist: The inner critic is not our enemy. Those thoughts are not our enemy.So why not choose a different way to view...
2021-04-0213 min
The Shek CheckKerri Hummingbird: Understanding the Mother WoundWhat is the mother wound? Who does it affect? How does it show up? The mother wound is not a specific diagnosis but it is something that affects us all. We are all born of a mother- and there are generations of beliefs and behaviors that get passed down from that. The roles mothers played in the past and in different cultures, how they survived to protect themselves and their children, how that affects the children they raise, and how it continues to get passed down in sons and daughter. The mother wound.
2021-03-2643 min
The Shek CheckSunil Godse: Cultivating IntuitionIntuition is a form of knowledge that appears in consciousness without obvious choice or thought.It is not magical but rather a tool in which our impressions are produced from an unconscious place in our mind- formed from our past experiences and our cumulative unseen knowledge. If you are like me, then there were a lot of messages you got growing up to NOT trust your intuition. Building that trust in ourselves, and understanding what that intuition looks like and feels like to us, requires some assistance. In this episode I sat down w...
2021-03-1239 min
Rachael's UniverseSoccer Clone and Drug Goals #NoNicotineClubA couple of shoutouts, Rachal's love? life, setting more goals for quitting drugs #NoNicotineClub, and not judging people. Also, I give an update on the future of this podcast.
Support my blog and this podcast by "buying" me a "coffee" at https://ko-fi.com/rachaelsuniverse
Instagram: @rachaelsuniversepod & @summituppodcast & @rachaeluniverse
Blog: rachaelsuniverse.com
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2021-03-0238 min
Rachael's UniverseSoccer boys, boundaries with drugs, and where we find inspiration.NO NICOTINE CLUB BABY. Introducing a new character that Rachal may have potential with, updates on my friendships, and a new segment that has been really enjoyable to discuss...drugs. We talk about our experiences, our mistakes, and our fears with substance use and abuse. Weed is the gateway drug people. Support my blog and this podcast by "buying" me a "coffee" at https://ko-fi.com/rachaelsuniverse Instagram: @rachaelsuniversepod & @rachaeluniverse Blog: rachaelsuniverse.com
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2021-02-2745 min
Rachael's UniverseIntroducing...Bad & BotheredNew series alert! I'm excited for this one. You already know her from the episode "Tapas & Toxic Friends"...it's Rachal! This series will cover the misadventures of Rachal and I, from drunk mistakes, to our aspirations for 2021. We'll cover it all. We're bad, and we're trying to channel that, but we're also so bothered...by so many things. Today we grab our coffee and talk about Rachal meeting up with DM boys, getting hit on by girls, and the progress we've made since 2020.
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2021-02-2039 min
The Shek CheckAccepting CommunicationWe all have had (or have) those people in our lives that frustrate us because of how they communicate....or how we think they don't communicate. We will blame them for the miscommunication, we create conflict around the miscommunication or lack of communication, and we exhaust ourselves trying to find ways to create "healthier" forms of communication with this person or people.Does the struggle help? Does the conflict help? Does focusing on fixing them or you help?Could acceptance help?In this episode, Erez Shek explores the idea of acceptance surrounding communication...
2021-02-1206 min
Rachael's UniverseSUMMIT UP! Sugarloaf Ski Resort, MaineSketchy employees pocketing money, forgetting ski gear, and perfect skiing conditions (just kidding). Also, I accidentally expose my podcast to my friends. RIP me. But at least you guys will get to hear from them. A lot more than what I was expecting for my first time at Sugarloaf.
Support my blog and this podcast by "buying" me a "coffee" at https://ko-fi.com/rachaelsuniverse
Instagram: @summituppodcast & @rachaeluniverse
Blog: rachaelsuniverse.com
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2021-02-0525 min
The Shek CheckPatrick Hill: Empowering LossWe all face different kinds of loss in our lives, and we all go through hard times. It is an undeniable reality.The question becomes, what kind of freedom do we have to express what we are feeling? How safe do we think we are in expressing how and what we are going through?Loss and grief are not things we were taught to have a healthy relationship with, even though we can and we should.In today’s episode, Erez is joined by Patrick Hill. Patrick is a transformational business and personal co...
2021-01-2937 min
Rachael's Universetapas and toxic friends.We have guests on this episode!! Emma, Kat, Rach and I go into Boston to try tapas for the first time, have a rooftop photoshoot, and figure out what to do about those oh so toxic friendships.
Instagram @rachaeluniverse & @summituppodcast
Support my blog and this podcast by "buying" me a "coffee" at https://ko-fi.com/rachaelsuniverse
Love you all!
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Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/rachael-shek/support
2021-01-2629 min
The Shek CheckReframe: Peace, Forgiveness & HealingIf you are like me, there are some very distinct images that pop up when I think of peace, forgiveness and healing. Cinematic images that seem far away and so hard to reach. What if we reframe those images? What if we reframe the concepts we have created around peace, forgiveness and healing? After you check out this episode, check in with The Shek Check on social media: Twitter: https://twitter.com/ShekCheckInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/theshekcheck/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheShekCheckLearn more about...
2021-01-1508 min
The Shek CheckMindset Check: 20212020 has been exhausting right? So, it might feel natural to look at 2021 as the answer to all our problems.Is that helpful though?Is it helpful for us to demonize the year 2020, and romanticize the year 2021? Let’s do a quick mindset check. Check in and check out The Shek Check on social media:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theshekcheckInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/theshekcheck/Twitter: https://twitter.com/ShekCheckLearn more about Erez Shek on The...
2020-12-2607 min
Rachael's UniverseSUMMIT UP! Our Hipcamp Experience: TranqvilliumFUN EPISODE! This is where dreams blur with reality. What is real and what isn't? Is Hipcamp reliable?Why is a Russian man showing me the inside of a potato shaped sauna filled with gems in the middle of the desert? I have so many questions. Instagram: @rachaeluniverse
I spend so much time editing this episode and I'm very proud of it. Lot's of sound effects and audio from the night...
Music: The Music of Red Dead Redemption by Bill Elm & Woody Jackson
Artist: Hiraeth by Scott Buckley https://soundcloud.com/scottbuckley
2020-12-2320 min
Rachael's UniverseSUMMIT UP! Alta Peak, Sequoia National Park.A review of hiking Alta Peak at Sequoia NP, and why you shouldn't let hiking reviews stop you from getting out of your comfort zone. Sorry for the wack audio a little while in. Working on getting a new mic! Support for more hike reviews :) Thanks everyone.
Instagram: @rachaeluniverse
Music: Lover by David Mumford, Rocky Theme Song, Track: The Day I Met You — Arvnd [Audio Library Release] (Music provided by Audio Library Plus, Watch: https://youtu.be/0tq32HUIOu4, Free Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/day-i-met-you), Bryan Chi Music
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2020-12-2314 min
The Shek CheckGreg Bodin LMFT: Attachment Theory 101Early childhood experiences shape how we feel in relationships and impact us through our whole life. How our needs are or aren’t met is what ultimately forms our attachment style later on in life.Psychotherapist Greg Bodin checked in with Erez to help us better understand attachment theory, attachment styles, and how our attachment styles influence our relationships.You can read more about Attachment Styles (and a lot of great other topics) when you visit Greg’s blog: https://www.gregbodin.com/news (Highly recommended by The Shek Check….clearly)Make s...
2020-12-1830 min
The Shek CheckHaunted: Ghosts of LiesThe death of a truth creates the ghost of a lie. In this episode of The Shek Check, Erez serves a quick self-check on how powerful a lie can be and how even with time….it will always present itself in some way. Check in and check out The Shek Check on the web:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theshekcheck/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheShekCheck/Twitter: https://twitter.com/ShekCheckWebsite: https://theshekcheck.com/
2020-12-1105 min
The Shek CheckRalph De La Rosa: Reality, Rage & ResiliencyDo you struggle with seeing value in your anger or rage? Do you struggle with seeing value in your sadness? Do you struggle seeing the love that exists within those “negative” emotions? Author, Psychotherapist and Meditation Teacher Ralph De La Rosa sits down to chat with Erez about the search for value in our current reality, our “negative” emotions, and what emotional resiliency can look like. Ralph De La Rosa LCSW is a psychotherapist in private practice and a seasoned meditation instructor. He began practicing meditation in 1996 and has been teaching since 2008. As a meditation teacher, Ralph's w...
2020-12-0436 min
The Shek CheckHow We Notice Hate…In this episode, The Shek Check delves into how we notice hate in this world. Erez addresses the importance of looking beyond the hate that is bold and loud. In this episode Erez references to his chat with Dr. Angelica Pinna-Perez in this episode: https://theshekcheck.com/episodes/part-1-redefining-revolutionary-with-guest-dr-angelica-pinna-perez/Follow The Shek Check on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theshekcheck/Twitter: https://twitter.com/ShekCheckFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheShekCheck/Want to show your support and love for The Shek Check? Buy us cof...
2020-11-2007 min
The Shek CheckSam Thomas: Bullies, Bulimia, Addiction & RecoveryWhat can it look like when two men open up about their experiences with bullies and eating disorders? In this episode of The Shek Check, Erez sits down to talk with Sam Thomas- a writer and men’s mental health advocate based in the U.K. Sam opens up about his own experiences with bullies, bulimia, addiction and what recovery is looking like for him.Sam and Erez go in depth on the need for awareness around men's mental health, the bumpy flow of trauma recovery and the importance of presence day to day...
2020-11-0634 min
The Shek CheckPassion (It's Personal)In this episode, Erez Shek expands on the importance of viewing passion (and the things that we are passionate about) as unique to the individual. How can we better understand passion as a reaction to things outside of ourselves AND also (at the same time) in relation to ourselves? The Shek Check has just been named one of the Top 25 Self Identity & Awareness Podcasts by Feedspot! Visit Feedspot to check it out and check out who also made the list! Keep up to date with The Shek Check on social media:Fac...
2020-10-3007 min
The Shek CheckDavid Monticalvo: Cultivating Creativity For ResiliencyHow can you create and foster creativity in your life to strengthen your resiliency? In this episode of The Shek Check, Erez sits down with David Monticalvo to discuss discovering where creativity lives inside of each of us and how we can cultivate our creativity to build resiliency. David is a speaker and author who has gone through his own personal journey to re-awaken his creativity. He is here to discuss how to cultivate creativity and use it as an opportunity to become more resilient.David believes that the Universe pushes us to wh...
2020-10-2336 min
The Shek CheckPart II: Redefining r/Evolutionary with Guest Dr. Angelica Pinna-PerezContinuing my chat with social action activist, educator and psychotherapist Dr. Angelica Pinna-Perez.In Part I of our discussion we started taking a closer look at our understanding of racism and how it is built into our systems (internal and external).We continue that in part II, exploring topics of race in mental health care, suicide prevention, pop culture representation and police brutality.How and what can we reframe to feed our evolution and allow that to become our revolution?This episode does touch on sensitive subjects regarding suicide prevention. If...
2020-10-0132 min
The Shek CheckPart I: Redefining r/Evolutionary with Guest Dr. Angelica Pinna-PerezHost Erez Shek sat down this week to speak with Dr. Angelica Pinna-Perez, a trauma aware and culturally affirming psychotherapist, educator and social action activist. She is the founder of The Cervitude Coalition 501(c)(3), a non-profit increasing access to quality holistic mental health care. A fierce advocate for equity in holistic mental health care, she centers anti-colonial re-imaginings in order to amplify its healing impact on people and communities living with complex collective trauma.In this episode, we embrace conversations surrounding equity in health care systems, educational systems and judicial systems. Exploring how decolonization can assist us to...
2020-09-2453 min
The Shek CheckTrapped Emotions with Guest David DelgadoWhat are trapped emotions?All our emotions affect our bodies in different ways and carry different energy within us. What happens when energy doesn't get to release the way it should? It does not just disappear or go away. It stays with us. It becomes trapped. How do trapped emotions show up in our bodies and our lives? How do we become aware of these trapped emotions? What can we do from (and with) that awareness?Guest David Delgado (founder of Moksha- A personal development company) sits down to talk about his discovery of his...
2020-09-1638 min
The Shek CheckImpact: When Intentions Don’t MatterAn intention is an idea or a thought, that you plan to carry out. It may be a vibe or an energy that you are aiming for.What is impact? It is the action of one object coming forcibly into contact with another object. It can be an effect of an action on someone or something.Our intention influence our actions and our choices. The impact of our actions and choices affect the world around us. The question becomes, what matters to you more? The intentions you set, or the impact they have?...
2020-07-1707 min
The Shek CheckThe Case To be LoudHow much has silence hurt you? Were you taught that being loud was disruptive? How many times have you been told that silence is the same thing as peace? Does challenging silence scare you? Does it freak you out to be loud? Host Erez Shek explores the mythical connection between silence and peace.Check out the full blog post for Episode 77: "The Case To Be Loud"Follow The Shek Check on all our social media platforms and webpage: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/T...
2020-07-0108 min
The Shek CheckBlack Lives Matter with Guest Lorren CottonBeyond the hashtags, the powerful protests, and the media coverage lives the real, honest, and maybe uncomfortable conversations between white people and black people that need to take place.Can we do that? Yes we can, if we choose to. Actress Lorren Cotton sat down to talk about her experience as a black woman in America, how racism shows up in her life, how it has shown up in her life, how it shows up in our school systems, in workplaces, on the streets, in the entertainment industry, and of course in our legal and...
2020-06-1654 min
The Shek CheckThe MindBody Syndrome (TMS) with Guest Kevin Martillo Viner Ph.dWhat is The MindBody Syndrome? Author and TMS Coach Dr. Kevin Martillo Viner sat down with Erez Shek to delve into what happens when we realize that the body has been saying what the mind has not been ready to. Kevin Martillo Viner Ph.d is a NYC based TMS author and personal coach and holds a PhD in linguistic. Kevin recovered from years of debilitating back and sciatica pain using Dr. Sarno's approach to TMS recovery. Based on his years of comprehensive research and lived experience his new book “The MindBody Syndrome (TMS): A Path...
2020-06-1044 min
The Shek CheckCheckin' Kenyth Mogan : Queer Artist FeatureQueer Songwriter and Musician Kenyth Mogan joins us this week to share his new single "You and Me" (out May 22) off his new album "Star Stealer" (out June 15). Covers of 80's classic's from female artists.We jumped right into topics of queer culture, comparison culture, owning and discovering identity, and flashing back to the music that shapes our journeys. If you want to revisit (or be introduced) to the wonderful world of 80's babies, than this is the time to do it. Kenyth's single "You and Me" ( featured on today's episode) is available...
2020-05-1946 min
The Shek CheckInvolved Evolution: Part Two with Guest Sari Lehrhoff M.D.Episode 73: Involved Evolution: Part 2In Part Two, Host Erez Shek continues his chat with Sari Lehrhoff M.D., the alternative psychiatrist.We continue to explore our work to be involved in our evolution including looking at our beliefs of self, rituals for our self-care, sleep hygiene and how we collect wisdom and challenge ourselves to practice as we learn. Check out Part 1 of "Involved Evolution" with Sari Lehrhoff M.D. You can learn more about Sari Lehrhoff M.D. and Evolve Wellness: Center for Integrated Health on:Webpage: http://ev...
2020-05-1531 min
The Shek CheckInvolved Evolution: Part One with Guest Sari Lehrhoff M.D.Episode 72: Involved Evolution: Part 1In Part One, Host Erez Shek chats with Sari Lehrhoff M.D. We explore her own personal evolution, her own choices and her involved decisions that have led to her current beliefs. Extending to her personal life, her work as a psychiatrist and her work with others. Discussing integrated health, "alternative psychiatry", the power of choice for (and with) patients, and the acceptance of our emotions as guidance in our daily lives.You can learn more about Sari Lehrhoff M.D. and Evolve Wellness: Center for Integrated...
2020-05-0847 min
The Shek Check#StayAtHome Stories: Part 2Part 2: #StayAtHome StoriesWithin this global event we are all experiencing together, we are each experiencing it differently. We can create a lot of space for understanding, compassion and perspective when we just take the time to listen. About others and within ourselves. In Episode 70, #StayAtHome Stories Part 1, we heard three different people share their experiences of how COVID-19 is affecting their life. This week we have three more people sharing their experiences:John EliJames TuckerBrandon LelandWhen they were asked these two questions: #1 How is the pandemic affecting you...
2020-04-2817 min
The Shek Check#StayAtHome Stories: Part 1There is something powerful and uniting when we are sharing our lived experiences and shared experiences. As we face COVID-19 and how it is affecting our lives, this has never been more necessary.Within this global event we are all experiencing together, we are each experiencing it differently.I am a strong believer that the differences are what can bring us even closer together. In those differences….there is so much to learn.About others and about ourselves. We can create a lot of space for understanding, compassion and perspective when we...
2020-04-2013 min
The Shek CheckYield for ChangeWe think the only way to create change, to grow or to become more than we are right now is to always go-go-go. We might believe that our productivity is defined by our ability to "push it real good". We might believe that if we have free time, then we have to fill it up as much as possible. We might think that slowing down prevents that, or makes us look weak, or makes us lazy.Perhaps we need a Willy Wonka moment here to "strike that, reverse it"....
2020-04-1307 min
The Shek CheckUncovering Space with Guest Ryan Allen"Your life, in it's current state is your curriculum. You don't need to wait for someone or something else. It's you. It's your life. Embrace it all as if you've chosen it and let it teach you" - Ryan AllenThe Shek Check is joined by Guest Ryan Allen- Writer, Coach, Breathwork Teacher and the mastermind behind the Lifted Digital Program.Through his own life, Ryan has uncovered the pain that he carried from being gay and growing up in a world that didn't understand him. When he found that awareness and took his own path of...
2020-03-1749 min
The Shek CheckWalk In ContradictionAre we able to have thoughts and beliefs that maybe oppose each other? What we might call "contradictions"?Yes, and the only time we struggle with that is when we are super aware of it.We are not one dimensional, we are not even two dimensional.How much would we struggle if we accepted that, if we allowed that more openly.The polarities we "feel safe" in, the "pure" views we attach to, the absolutes we search for. Do they help us or hurt us? Mentioned in this episode i...
2020-03-1210 min
The Shek CheckSelf-Awareness Tools: The “CheckingIn” App- Guest CEO & Founder Sean BurkeThis week I sat down with Sean Burke, the Founder and CEO of "CheckingIn"- A self-awareness app that empowers people to tune into their emotions and energy levels in order to live healthier lives.Self-awareness is a super power that we all have access to within us, we often just need to start taking the actions to exercise and strengthen it.Download CheckingIn for free on Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/checkingin/id1465984722Are you using an Android? Get on the early access list to get notified when the app...
2020-03-0339 min
The Shek CheckThe Breakfast Club Theory: A Lesson in Empathy"They were five students with nothing in common, faced with spending a Saturday detention together in their high school library. At 7 a.m., they had nothing to say, but by 4 p.m., they had bared their souls to each other. To the outside world they were simply a Brain, an Athlete, a Basket Case, a Princess, and a Criminal, but to each other, they would always be the Breakfast Club." The Breakfast Club Movie SynopsisThe Breakfast Club Theory is that even though we all have our own experiences, and our own experiences of those experiences. We can find u...
2020-02-2606 min
The Shek CheckLove is LoveLove is love.Like any feeling it is unlimited, it moves and it shifts.So why do we feel we need to compare our love? Why can't we hold space for the feeling, and how we feel it, and who we feel it for? Or who we have felt it for in the past?Why do we feel that we might have to sacrifice loving ourselves so that we can love others?Doesn't it all connect, mix, and co-exist?Continue the conversation with The Shek Check on...
2020-02-1107 min
The Shek CheckCheckin’ Jason HanasikSitting down with Journalist and Filmmaker Jason Hanasik to talk about his new film "A Childhood on Fire". “A Childhood on Fire” is a film about the father figures who violated Nick, the effects that abuse had on Nick’s sense of self and security, and the ways he is interrupting a cycle of violence so that his two boys thrive.While my conversation with Jason was focused on "A Childhood on Fire" and his previous film "How to Make a Pearl", I really got to see how his curiosity in others created space within him.For h...
2020-02-0547 min
The Shek CheckProcessing Forgiveness"What if forgiveness was more about processing, and less of a destination or a single act?" - Erez Shek Often we will be told to find forgiveness, or simply ask for forgiveness.However, nothing is as simple as a single moment, or a single act when it comes to our emotional health, our growth, our healing....our lives. Words matter, but actions matter more. We see this with the phrase "I'm Sorry". A true apology is patterns of changed actions and behaviors. Not a symbolic phrase.It is no different with forgiveness. Forgiveness...
2020-01-2815 min
The Shek CheckShifts that Shape with Guest Tasha JacksonDo our experiences shape us, or do the shifts we take from those experiences shape us? Or do they both? "I've looked at clouds from both sides now. From up and down..."- Joni MitchellMy conversation with Therapist and Author Tasha Jackson continues from Episode 57: "Swipe Right".There was a shift in our conversation that explored her own experiences and how they have shaped her, how they have shaped what she has done, and how they shape what she is doing now.Discussing about her connection with the LGBTQ community, and what...
2020-01-1440 min
The Shek CheckSwiping Right with Guest Tasha Jacksoncan we swipe right on ourselves toallow ourselves to swipe right on others. Therapist and Author Tasha Jackson joins me to talk about connecting in our social media age, dating in our social media age, and why we need to break down those thought barriers that keep us from swiping right.“Love is an essential part of life and a new love can open the door to personal growth in so many unexpected ways” - from "Master Dater" by Tasha JacksonSocial media and dating apps give us a wonderful new way to c...
2020-01-0829 min
The Shek CheckThe Myth of Self-DiagnosisWhile "self-diagnosis" is literally impossible, a totally made up nonsensical phrase and nothing. The thoughts that form within us when we digest, attach and fixate on things we might look up are very real. This episode explores those thoughts, the thought process and why we need to diffuse them. So, if we do need help, we can communicate that clearly...in the context of our body. Not a list of symptoms we look up or hear about. Let's continue this coversation and let us know what you think by leaving a comment on The Shek Check Website.
2019-12-1914 min
The Shek CheckCheckin’ Hypnotherapy with Guest Jesse Lyon LMHCHypnotherapy, Psychoanalysis, and Disney Princess’. Those three words and concepts are the best overview of my chat with Licensed Mental Health Counselor Jesse Lyon.The Shek Check loves to explore the different modalities that exist in Therapy and Psychology. Hypnosis and Hypnotherapy are both modalities that I had never explored.Which is why I brought on Jesse Lyon LMHC of Lyon Counseling, and he does not disappoint. Jesse connected the dots for me between Psychoanalysis and Hypnotherapy, and how it can be used for trauma, anxiety, phobias and more.
2019-11-1844 min
The Shek CheckWhat Lies Beneath: Procrastination“What lies beneath” will provide me more answers than throwing “fixes” on what the surface is showing.It becomes dangerous to label ourselves (or others) based on behaviors (or pattern of behaviors).I personally can understand how that can become a self-fulfilling cycle on many levels, but this episode is focusing on just one: Procrastination“Procrastination isn’t a unique character flaw or a mysterious curse on your ability to manage time, but a way of coping with challenging emotions and negative moods induced by certain tasks — boredom, anxie...
2019-10-0411 min
The Shek CheckSnuggling UncertaintyWhat would happen if we challenged ourselves to snuggle with uncertainty? We fear it, we avoid it, we struggle more because we are clinging so hard to an idea of certainty. When really, the only certainty through our lives is uncertainty.I believe we get convinced of “certainty” from an early age. For many reasons we want the safety that certainty can paint for us. When really, this idea that influences so much in our life, is a myth. We avoid the reality, by clinging to something that we never actually have.If w...
2019-08-0207 min
The Shek CheckCheckin’ Acceptance & Commitment TherapyThis week’s episode is brought to you by the letters ACT. What does that stand for? Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.Psychotherapist Greg Bodin (who is an absolute delight) joins us this week to talk about this type of Psychotherapy that is getting more attention these days, but is not new in any sense.Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is action oriented and focuses on no longer avoiding ,denying, and struggling with our emotions. Instead it promotes accepting our feelings and responses to situations which actually allows us to take action moving forward. It...
2019-07-2641 min
The Shek CheckShiftin’ Self CareThe ways we market and promote Self-Care needs to change. There is a heavy focus on self-care from the outside in, which is totally legitimate. I think our focus needs to shift, not ignore. We see more and more focus turn to our Mental Health, which needs more than a bubble bath. More than what a pamper day can provide.In a world that is so based on the physical first, we are a world thirsty and desperate to take a shift in our focus.A shift IN.
2019-07-1807 min
The Shek CheckBonus: Old Dogs Learn New TricksThis week’s quick self-check Shek Check, is dissolving the idea that “Old dogs can’t learn new tricks”.So I know something I got in the habit of doing, (and actively trying to stop) is placing limiting beliefs on others.“This is how they are, they will never change”.I realized that limiting belief of others was born out of my limiting belief that I can’t change. That I am fixed as I am. So really, its a lack of belief in my ability to heal, grow and...
2019-07-0906 min
The Shek CheckCheckin’ The Power of a VoiceA single voice can reach out to all those who sit in silence, and it holds that power. It is sometimes weird to say that when someone uses their voice to break down societal barriers, that it gives others permission to do the same. Afterall, we are all free agents who make the choice to speak up or speak out.The truth is, when we feel like we are not seen. When we feel we are not represented. When we feel we are not heard. That permission, hearing and seeing someone owning their voice. It is the...
2019-07-0548 min
The Shek CheckBonus: (de)Serving You“Sometimes it is you who isn’t giving you what you deserve” – We talk so much about how much we deserve, from others. We think so much about how much we deserve, from others. We get caught up in the emotions and actions that are born from that. Affecting a lot in our life.If we don’t speak it, it certainly can be one of those subconscious mindsets we have gotten into. What we miss on is that it is not about the others. It never actually is when it comes to “deserving” or expectations, it actually becom...
2019-07-0305 min
The Shek CheckCheckin’ Our AlliesOur Allies stand by us, they support us, they fight with us, and they fight for us.Allies are important for all of us, and especially for any marginalized community.Since, it is LGBT Pride Month and I am a proud gay man, I celebrate a pride I did not always have. I also celebrate the people who stand with my community. Who support my community and who fight with my community.My guest today, Andrew Bossone, has been my ally for 20 years now. He stood with me...
2019-06-0555 min
The Shek CheckCheckin’ Building Brain WavesMindfulness and Meditation have become extremely potent in caring for my Mental Health. However, with its popularity there are growing misconceptions that actually miss the point of how it is utilized.Something my guest today addresses openly on his YouTube channel Building Brain Waves .“Building Brain Waves” explores Nelson’s own journey with Anxiety and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.In addition he shares the tools that have helped him move forward. Tools like mindfulness, meditation, and acceptance commitment therapy. Literally taking us on his journey with him, and dropping h...
2019-05-2928 min
The Shek CheckCheckin’ Inner Transformation“The idea of facing myself naked, without the trappings of the world seemed unbearable” – Felipe ZimmerHowever, that is what Felipe did. What followed was a journey of consciousness and inner transformation. Choosing to face all the judgements, thoughts and feelings that were within him by allowing himself to sit with them, away from the rest of the world. He is sharing what he learned in his process, in his book:Masters of Belief: A Guide to Spiritual Liberation (Buy Here)I will continue to say how much I g...
2019-04-2443 min
The Shek CheckCheckin’ Psychology & The Stars“Growing up, I always had this desire to learn more about something beyond. Find a pattern that understood the fragments of the world and put it back into a better puzzle of understanding of myself and the reflection of everything that we are” – Kyle ThomasOn its face, we might not necessarily connect Astrology and Psychology. However at its base, there is are connections.Much of both have a focus on patterns that can form guidance, understanding, and awareness.Which is why I spoke with Pop Culture Astrolo...
2019-04-1730 min
The Shek CheckCheckin’ Identity with Guest Dr. J RodriguezIn this episode, what is explored is our identities. As a society we cling to fixed identities, because it feels safe and confined. Easy to understand. However, what is more natural is fluid personality. That battle between the two becomes a new battle for us. We don’t always realize how we fight it in our daily lives, in our relationships with others and our relationship with ourselves.I came across Award Winning Communications Expert and Professor Dr. J Rodriguez by watching his TEDx Talk at California State University Long Beach. An inspiring jump into fluid identity, min...
2019-04-1058 min
The Shek CheckCheckin’ Addiction & Recovery with Guest Sam Morris“Wherever you go, there you are” – Jon Kabat-ZinnThere are many ways we can find to run away. Run away from a situation, from a relationship, from a setting but essentially from ourselves. We can literally pick ourselves up and move, we can cut people out, we can find comfort in food, find our escape in drugs or alcohol. This is actually a common human trait, and go-to. Some choices may seem healthier than others, and there are choices that become more toxic. Either way though, they do become choices we get lost in.T...
2019-03-2743 min
The Shek CheckCheckin’ Perceptions with Guest Lawson PattersonThe word “healing” when it comes to Mental Health, is a bit misleading to me. Especially if you look at it in terms of our physical health. We think of a wound being smoothed over. We think, two pieces being mended back together. I’ve started to look at healing differently now.I look at my growth and my healing as one thing. If I don’t keep opening up I’m not growing, and if I am not growing I am not healing. The more closed off to anything I am, the more I choose to form walls...
2019-03-1945 min
The Shek CheckEpisode 22: Circle of JudgementIn a world where we scream “Dont judge me”, yet we go on judging. Judging others and ourselves. When do we choose, individually, to start living by example? When do we choose to break that Circle of Judgement? Follow Erez and The Shek Check on Social Media: Twitter: @erezshek Instagram: @theshekcheck Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheShekCheck www.theshekcheck.com Become … Continue reading Episode 22: Circle of Judgement →
2019-02-2507 min
The Shek CheckEpisode 21: Special Guests Kyle Thomas & Kenyth MoganOriginally Aired on Blog Talk Radio on February 14 2019 Valentine’s Day can be hard when you are single, so why not talk about it. The Shek Check is joined by two incredible guests for this panel discussion about love, relationships, and self love. Special Guests: KYLE THOMAS Kyle Thomas is an award-winning Writer, Creative … Continue reading Episode 21: Special Guests Kyle Thomas & Kenyth Mogan →
2019-02-1556 min
The Shek CheckEpisode 14: Guest Erika RevaOriginally Aired Live on Left of Str8 Radio on Blog Talk Radio December 20, 2018 The Shek Check was joined by We In Me Podcast Host Erika Reva. Speaking openly on the effects of Trauma and living with Dissociative Identity Disorder. Her Podcast “The We in Me” explores, chats and dissects all things trauma & … Continue reading Episode 14: Guest Erika Reva →
2018-12-291h 00
The Shek CheckEpisode 13: Robbie MillwardOriginally Aired Live on Left of Str8 Radio on Blog Talk Radio December 6 , 2018 Father, Veteran, Mental Health Blogger & Mental Health Speaker Robbie Millward joined us to talk about life and life with Anxiety, Depression and PTSD. A must listen. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/the-shek-check/support This podcast is sponsored by … Continue reading Episode 13: Robbie Millward →
2018-12-141h 03
The Shek CheckEpisode 10: The Label LiabilityThe labels other people put on us is one thing, the labels we accept or give ourselves….they hurt us just as much. You can help support The Shek Check grow by visiting anchor.fm/The-Shek-Check Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/the-shek-check/support This podcast is sponsored by Anchor
2018-10-2507 min
The Shek CheckEpisode 9: Boundary CareThis episode is brought to you by the letter “B”. As in Boundaries. It’s not just about setting them up and expecting them to always hold. We also have to know that….well listen to the episode and you will find how that sentence completes itself. If you are interested in helping The Shek Check grow, … Continue reading Episode 9: Boundary Care →
2018-10-1708 min
The Shek CheckEpisode 7: Words are Not EnoughJust because words are not enough, is not saying words do not matter. It is saying, we are missing a major connection with them when it regards our personal growth, our mental health, and our authenticity. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/the-shek-check/support This podcast is sponsored by Anchor
2018-09-2907 min
The Shek CheckEpisode 6: Self-Awareness Superpowers with Transformational Life Coach Jil ApplegateSelf-Awareness is a super power that is the base of how we can transform, heal, and grow in life. Transformational Coach Jil Applegate joins The Shek Check for this chat. Learn more about Jil and Applecore Coaching right here: My website is: www.applecorecoaching.com FB: https://www.facebook.com/applecorecoaching Instagram: @apple_core_coaching Thanks for checking this episode out and please … Continue reading Episode 6: Self-Awareness Superpowers with Transformational Life Coach Jil Applegate →
2018-08-3111 min
The Shek CheckEpisode 5: Therapist Chris Morandi- Therapist UnpluggedThe Shek Check pops into the mind of Therapist Chris Morandi. Talking about life “behind the scenes” of working in Mental Health and the importance of therapy. Also delving into the importance of learning emotional language for the care of our Mental Health, and prevention of the conditions and illness’ that can form. You can … Continue reading Episode 5: Therapist Chris Morandi- Therapist Unplugged →
2018-08-2314 min
The Shek CheckEpisode 4: With Guest Singer-Songwriter Michael NannaTalking Survival, Mental Health & Music with Singer Songwriter Michael Nanna. You can buy Michael’s latest Album “Karmic Clutter” on iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/karmic-clutter/1391970978 Learn more about Michael and get in touch with him through his website: HOME Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPG0bsN_PXPv8q4YPzt4xXA Soundcloud: Twitter: Tweets by mjnanna Become a supporter of this podcast: https://anchor.fm/the-shek-check/support This podcast is sponsored by … Continue reading Episode 4: With Guest Singer-Songwriter Michael Nanna →
2018-08-1820 min