Shows
The Morning Ish PodcastNavigating Mental Health - Rachel and Shannon talk about Mental Health in a MarriageWhoppsie doodle! We took a bit of a break there - unintentionally - but life got busy and we had things on our plate that needed navigating.Welcome to a chat about mental health in a marriage where we talk openly about advocating for yourself, why therapy within your relationship doesn't necessarily mean that something is wrong or falling apart, and why it's really important to work on yourself while simultaneously working on your relationship.As it did for many families, the pandemic magnified the need for mental health support and showing up for oneself...
2022-07-0543 minThe Morning Ish PodcastSmiley Faced T-Shirts - Diana from Watered Grass talks about Optimism, Toxic Positivity, Emotional Awareness, and One Better ThoughtThe world seems to be filled with Good Vibes Only stickers and t-shirts with smiley faces on them. What would happen if we made space for emotions? What would be impact be if we leaned into optimism instead of toxic positivity?In this episode, we talk with Diana Fuller-Dupont from Watered Grass. Diana is a Self Care Strategies Coach and an elementary school Psychologist who embraces emotions openly and helps people create self care plans that work. We talk about how choosing the next best thought isn't always effective, why it's important to ma...
2022-05-2643 minThe Morning Ish PodcastIt Really Is a Holistic Medicine - Joanna from Budz&Co talks about Cannabis, Stigma and Mental HealthThis is a topic we have been wanting to talk about for a long time, but finding the right person to talk to was difficult.There is a lot of stigma surrounding Cannabis use, and an incredible amount of discomfort that we dive in to as we open up this chat with Joanna from Budz&Co.As a recreational user of cannabis, Joanna started to see the holistic medicinal benefits of it when her husband began to experience arthritis from his job. She started dabbling in other products to help her family, which opened up...
2022-05-1157 minThe Morning Ish PodcastShe's Showing Me Doilies - Emily talks about Spirits and MediumshipBuckle up friends, we are entering the Spirit Realm today on the podcast!Come along for a chat with Emily Jackson, an incredible human being who has been able to see, feel and hear spirit since she was a young child. Emily talks with us about her experiences, how it all began, and the deep connection she feels when she taps in to this incredible gift. We debunk some myths about what Mediums do, how she receives information, and gives Rachel a wee surprise! Emily also talks about setting boundaries with spirit, and her experience w...
2022-04-2758 minThe Morning Ish PodcastSo We Took a Break - Rachel and Shannon ARE BACK BABY!Well then, that was quite the break!In our FIRST official episode of 2022, we talk about our long 4 month hiatus, what's coming up for the Morning Ish, how often to expect new content and all of that jazz.We won't sugar coat it (and you wouldn't expect us to) - life has been chaotic for the past several months. We've both dealt with COVID in our homes, there's been some travel, a new puppy. It's been a lot and we needed to press the pause button.But we are back and things are...
2022-04-1254 minThe Morning Ish PodcastTo the Cheerleader on Her BirthdayToday, we gather to celebrate you.We love you, Rachel! And we hope you have the very best birthday!The Morning Ish will be back with regular episodes this spring, so please stay tuned (and thank you for sticking with us during our hiatus as we've been sitting in burnout land!)xoxoShannon
2022-03-3007 minThe Morning Ish PodcastFear, Obligation and Guilt - Michelle continues her story about Domestic AbuseIn this episode, Michelle continues her story about domestic abuse from where we left off on Episode 61. She discusses what it felt like to find a womens shelter in the middle of the night with her daughter, the process of intake with the police when domestic abuse is concerned, and navigating the family law system in Canada. She also talks about the impact on her daughter, visitation rights, CAS (Children's Aid Society) and how important it is for kids to speak up when they're caught in the middle of these situations. If you or...
2021-12-2953 minThe Morning Ish PodcastOde to 2021 - Rachel and Shannon talk Year In ReviewLast year, this little corner of the internet was so new that we didn't do a Year in Review at the end of the year.This year is a whole different ball game!Some of the topics we cover in our Year if Review are....LGBTQ2+IA voices and how they have gotten louder this yearThe Muslim family in London, Ontario who was murdered in an act of racismIndian Residential Schools in Canada and genocidePersonal grief and lossThe 1st Woman of Colour elected to Vice...
2021-12-2244 minThe Morning Ish PodcastIt's Time to Believe in Yourself! Rachel talks about Imposter SyndromeA topic that has been burning for a while - imposter syndrome.Feeling like a burden. Like your worries, concerns, situations aren't quite bad enough and therefore you are a fraud. We talk about Rachel's story with cancer and how she felt like she was a fraud because it was caught so early. We talk about managing kids who are trying to manage all of the expectations at school but are being compared to one another in the classroom and feeling like they don't measure up.We talk about it all and break i...
2021-12-1528 minThe Morning Ish PodcastLet Me Be Very Clear - Shannon talks about EstrangementWe get deep into the waters of family estrangement as Shannon clears the air and talks openly about how toxic family has impacted her mental and emotional wellbeing.Over the years, really since Shannon's dad passed away, her family has become incredibly fragmented. On the maternal side, she has been demonized and made out to be a monster because of the boundaries that she has imposed - which has broken her down more than a few times. This episode serves two purposes. 1) to clear the air. There are certain family members who do no...
2021-12-0835 minThe Morning Ish PodcastGaslighting and Phycological Abuse - Michelle talks about Domestic ViolenceTRIGGER WARNING: Domestic violence, abuseBeing critical of every move a person makes, an insinuation that things weren't enough. Gaslighting and psychological abuse. Name calling and public humiliation.Then the physical violence.In this episode, we discuss the cycle of abuse with Michelle, a beautiful human being who survived an abusive relationship and escaped from an incredibly violent situation. This is part one - we had some connection and conversion issues so stay tuned to hear the rest of her story.
2021-11-3030 minThe Morning Ish PodcastThey Have Grief Too - Shannon talks about Death, Kids and GriefHelping your kids navigate grief and the death of a grandparent (or someone they have a close relationship with) is something you can't really prepare for as a parent. You're sitting with your own loss, while also dealing with (potentially) temper tantrums, isolation, and mood swings. You're navigating your own grief, while also trying to be a pillar of strength to your family. In this episode, Shannon talks about losing her Mother-in-law during the summer and what the grieving process has been like for her boys. She also discusses how different this loss is...
2021-11-2327 minThe Morning Ish PodcastYou're Not Crazy, It Is Real - Jessica talks about Parental AlienationIn a jawdropping chat, Jessica opens up about her experience with Parental Alienation.We learned things that are ugly and dark - about the psychological manipulation of children, and how sometimes the alienation is so bad that it leads to suicide. We also learned about the warning signs, how important it is to stay present as the alienated parent and that there can be light at the end of the tunnel.Jessica shares some of the stories she has collected in collaborating with other parents who have been through this, as she is currently working...
2021-11-161h 11The Morning Ish PodcastProtecting Your Peace - Rachel talks about Boundaries and Saying NoSetting boundaries is one of the most loving things that you can do to protect your own inner peace, but what happens when those boundaries are constantly disrespected?You enforce them. You find your voice and you stand up for yourself.In this episode, we talk about the importance of healthy boundaries, how you don't owe anyone an explanation in saying no or declining an invitation, and why it's important to assess your priorities from time to time. We also talk about boundaries from the lens of social media, the news, family an...
2021-11-0930 minThe Morning Ish PodcastWe Wanted a Well-rounded View- Shannon talks about Autism, Echolalia and ADHDHe's always been the wild one. The one who works with giant horses with no fear, who starts conversations with stranger.The one who repeats facts about NASCAR, horses, and the Blue Jays. The one who has never consistently slept through the night, and seems as though he's driven by a motor.We've always known that Graeme is different, and we started pushing for answers, only to be told that he's defiant and difficult, and that our parenting was to blame.In this episode, Shannon talks openly about the process of searching for...
2021-11-0235 minThe Morning Ish PodcastAddressing Snap Back Culture - Dr. Jess talks about Postpartum Athleticism and Body ImageThe pressure to get your pre-baby body back after pregnancy is intense. As a first time mom, you're transforming into a new version of yourself - one that you can't imagine until you're even there. We spend so much time wrapped up in the magazine covers and less time listening to our bodies. Dr. Jess talks about the most common things she sees in her practice, the 6 week clearance, and puts postpartum health into perspective. If we had torn a hamstring or blown an ACL, we would take the time off after those injuries to he...
2021-10-2635 minThe Morning Ish PodcastIt's Not Just About Contraception - Dallas talks about Reya Health and Birth ControlIn today's episode, we talk about Dallas - founder of Reya Health, a Canadian company that is committed to helping you find the best birth control option for your needs be they contraceptive or health related. Long gone are the days where we hush talk of birth control, as if it is something used exclusively in situations of sex to prevent pregnancy. We talk about our own stories of when we started The Pill, and how ill-informed we were as teenagers. If only there were conversations like this one happening back in the 90's! From th...
2021-10-1946 minThe Morning Ish PodcastI Got Really Good at Advocating for Myself - Robyn talks about InfertilityOctober 15 is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Day, and today we have the honour of talking with Robyn - a woman (and friend) who is currently navigating the world of fertility treatments.Lean in and listen as she talks about her experience with fertility clinics, IUI (intrauterine insemination), hormones and supplements, micromanaging her care, egg retrieval and, eventually, IVF.If you or someone you know is struggling with infertility, please know that you have options and we encourage you to be an active participant in your care, and an advocate for yourself. Here a...
2021-10-1537 minThe Morning Ish PodcastPumpkins Scream in the Dead of Night - Rachel and Shannon talk about HalloweenFor some, Halloween is full of matching family costumes, displays on the lawn and front porch, and gatherings of friends.For others, events like Halloween bring an intense amount of anxiety. And for a few, maybe some memories of grief and hardship. In this episode, we talk about our experiences and memories with Halloween, why some have been easier than others and why it's important to carve out your own traditions around these types of holidays.
2021-10-1232 minThe Morning Ish PodcastThe Aliens Have Come - Rachel and Shannon talk about PreteensWe get a bit fired up in this episode after an experience with a group of entitled teenagers in Blue Mountain Village, which was actually really perfectly timed since we were going to be recording about preteens and the struggles with changing hormones (and attitudes).There seems to be an incredible amount of entitlement and attitude that comes along with the hormones or preteens and teens. And we've been advised that the aliens have come to take our children, and that we will get them back in a few years.In this episode, we talk...
2021-10-0444 minThe Morning Ish PodcastFive Thousand Miles - David talks about the Emotional Journey Through the Chaos of CancerWe live in a society that rides the wave of Good Vibes Only, but what happens when a family is hit with the emotional turmoil of a cancer diagnosis?In his book Cycle of Lives, David Richman details his 5000 journey to meet caregivers, doctors, patients, and loved ones as he collects and holds space for their stories and experiences. We talk openly about the importance of sharing your vulnerability and emotion within these spaces of hardship. We discuss the why's - not wanting to be a burden, not wanting others to feel uncomfortable, feeling guilty.
2021-09-2846 minThe Morning Ish PodcastFinding Alternatives and Navigating Intolerance - Sarah and Michelle talk about Celiac, Gluten and Dietary RestrictionsWhen dietary restrictions give way to businesses, and businesses give way to educating communities on evidence based information with regards to Celiac Disease. Gluten issues are something that so many humans experience - both intolerances and allergies. We also talk about dairy issues and intolerances, navigating parenting and noticing the same things popping up in our children, and how careful both Sarah and Michelle have had to be with what and how they eat.Michelle also talks about environmental triggers, inflammation, breathing issues, and other complications leading to a rare diagnosis for her son, and h...
2021-09-211h 07The Morning Ish PodcastWhere Are The Tweezers? Shannon and Rachel talk about Body InsecurityAt what age did we start looking in the mirror and judging the reflection? In this episode, we get really real with you all. We talk about our insecurities - from body hair to the beloved Fupa...we talk about it all. And more than just talk about it, we discuss our emotional connection to these areas of our bodies and why we haven't loved them for our whole lives.It's ok if you're insecure, because we are too. But love yourself, too, eh?
2021-09-1449 minThe Morning Ish PodcastIf You Don't Like It, Take It Out - Rachel and Shannon talk about PiercingsWell...we talked about tattoos and now we are talking about piercings.Not-quite horror stories of piercing guns going through ear cartilage and noses, how our parents reacted and when we had roommates almost pass out after getting rather sensitive areas pierced. Our word of advice? Always go to a professional piercer, not a shop at the mall or a hair salon! Make sure the place is clean and has an auto-clave, and if you don't like it....you can take it out!
2021-09-0737 minThe Morning Ish PodcastTelling Our Stories on Our Skin - Shannon and Rachel talk about TattoosWhen we put an open call for topic suggestions out there on Instagram, we were overwhelmed by the interest in our tattoos. So this, our friends on IG...this is for you!From memorial tattoos for family members who have passed away to special pieces for our children, we break down each piece that we have (21 pieces between the two of us!). We talk about the where, who and why behind them, pieces that we maybe regret and ones that we want to get. We talk about the optics of being adult women with lots of tattoos...
2021-08-311h 12The Morning Ish PodcastWe're on Vacation - Rachel and Shannon talk about Having FunWhy is it that when we become adults, we lose our fun factor?We get into our careers, build families and households, But why do we stand in our own way of having fun? Why are we waiting until we are 30, 40, 50+ to have bucket lists? Why is it only summer that gets a list of things to do before the school year starts?In this episode, we encourage you to listen to your inner child, let your freak flag fly and get the tattoo. Do the things that feel silly and dance in t...
2021-08-2439 minThe Morning Ish PodcastWelcome to Holland - Salwa talks about Autism Spectrum DisorderBubbles, rainbows of colour, stories and laughter are what Salwa brings to a podcast dedicated to her story of navigating Autism Spectrum Disorder with both of her children. We laugh, we cry and we feel big things as we lean in and learn about neurodivergence and the beautiful world of Autism. Salwa is the mom of two incredible human beings, and her goal is to create one moment of joy for them each day. Not every day is perfect, and some are incredibly hard. She talks openly about the process of seeking diagnosis for her children, their a...
2021-08-171h 14The Morning Ish PodcastWe Cannot Control It and We Didn't Cause It - Ashley talks about the Impact of AlcoholismIn a very raw and vulnerable chat, Ashley Seeley talks about how a loved ones alcoholism impacted her and her family. From red flags to gaslighting, from fear to entering in legal proceedings to ensure firm boundaries from a place of love. It was not an easy road whatsoever and Ashley talks about how she dealt with it, processed it and where she went to for support. By leaning on supports, Ashley was able to learn what the disease was doing to her loved one, let go of some of the anger she was holding, and is f...
2021-08-0436 minThe Morning Ish PodcastThe Word of the Day is Reductive - Lisa talks about Childhood Cancer and Medical TraumaAfter not so much as having a cavity growing up, Lisa was diagnosed with Stage 3 B Hodgkin's Lymphoma at the age of 16. She underwent a journey that included not having a normal childhood, the optics of being a teenager in a ward of younger children, undergoing biopsies and chemotherapy.Lisa talks openly about her experience at sixteen years old, not being able to process what was happening, the compounded trauma of her cancer experience and how that presents itself now, the rigorous amount of medications, the trauma of finding a vein that would cooperate with receiving chemotherapy. A...
2021-07-2748 minThe Morning Ish PodcastValidate, See and Recognize - Sara talks about Emotional Resilience and StrategiesIn a beautiful and funny conversation, Sara Westbrook (Emotional Resilience Strategist) teaches us that emotions are information and carries home the message that there are no bad emotions (a statement that Shannon lives and breathes by!)It all comes down to modelling, and Sara teaches us in a very beautiful way why it's so important to get connected and listen to one another without seeking first to redirect each other.ValidateSeeRecognizePeople want to know that it's ok to feel how we are feeling without judgment and without being d...
2021-07-211h 04The Morning Ish PodcastNot Just a Bad Period - Katie talks about Endometriosis and Chronic IllnessAfter pushing for a diagnosis for 6 years and finally being diagnosed with Endo, Katie talks about her experience with chronic pain, pushback in the medical community, her symptoms and what lead her down the road to explore what was happening inside of her body.1 in 10 people with a uterus is diagnosed with Endometriosis - a condition where tissue grows on the outside of the uterus and can potentially attach to other organs. Many people just live with it, and many doctors dismiss it as a bad period, prescribing the birth control pill as a fix-all-option....
2021-07-1355 min
The Morning Ish PodcastDisordered and Chaotic - Emilie talks about Binge Eating, Abuse, and being a Motherless MotherFrom fueling a feeling of emptiness with food via binge eating to raising a daughter without a mother to lean on, we have a very open and emotional conversation with Emilie. What does it look like to raise a daughter after an eating disorder? How do you navigate parenting without traditional support? How does one even go about finding a sperm donor after a series of abusive relationships?A single mom by choiceAn incredibly strong womanA beautiful human being raising a strong and empowered childA voice to listen to and...
2021-06-2951 minThe Morning Ish PodcastWe'll Just Figure Something Out - Shannon and Rachel talk about the Invisible Load of Motherhood/ParentingWhat happened when the pandemic started? Mothers and primary caretakers of the world donned their capes and said We'll Just Figure Something Out.We put ourselves last to become chefs, teacher assistants, playmates, problem solvers, emotional therapists, boo-boo doctors, working our regular jobs, getting all of the snacks . Things that we've all done before, but this time 24 hours a day, 7 days a week without a break whatsoever. Moms and primary caretakers are burnt out. The easy answer it to take a break - book the time off, speak up for our needs, and stop putting ourselves...
2021-06-2225 minThe Morning Ish PodcastUnwinding, connecting and learning - Rachel talks about Screen Time and TechnologyWe all know that there are limits on screen time suggested by incredible professionals, but what happens when you're in a pandemic, your kids are in virtual learning and you're on conference calls all day?Tech happens. iPads, air pods, laptops. It's a part of their education, and also a part of their socialization right now as they've been more online than not. Right now, during the pandemic, it's about survival. Whether your kids are in synchronous/asynchronous learning, doing a hybrid of worksheets, or are fully offline - you know what is best for you...
2021-06-1529 minThe Morning Ish PodcastHow Can Someone Hold So Much Hate? Shannon and Rachel talk about Racism in CanadaIn this mini episode, we wanted to talk about the state of hatred and racism in Canada.215 Indigenous children, buried in a mass grave at a Residential School Site in Kamloops, British Columbia.A beautiful Muslim family of 5, intentionally run down by a white male with his pickup truck in London, Ontario.Shootings at MosquesBeatings on the streetBullying in schoolsDiscrimination and oppression at every turnWhere does it end? How do we raise our children in a world that functions this way with so much hate...
2021-06-1021 minThe Morning Ish PodcastWe Miss Hugs - Rachel and Shannon do a Mental Health CheckinWith this episode, we wanted to do a mental health checkin with you all. The world is heavy out there and communities are suffering incredible losses. Mental health, addictions, isolation, suicide...all casualties of the current situation with the pandemic.With this episode, we want to normalize the stress. The anxiety. The darker thoughts. The sadness. Because we feel it too.If you need help or someone to talk to, here are some mental health crisis resources. You can always reach out to us on the podcast via Instagram or email to...
2021-06-0833 minThe Morning Ish PodcastFunny, Beautiful, Real - Victoria talks about Plus Size Modelling, Showing up as a Real Human and Creating ConnectionToday we welcome Victoria to the podcast, the beauty and brains behind Fly For a Ginger, and wade into the waters of body positivity and acceptance, the modelling industry, health and wellness. Victoria is a coach for creators, with a view that our quirks make us incredible human beings and we all deserve to have access to options that embrace who we are at the core of our being. We talk about issues related to plus sized modeling, psoriasis, PCOS, affiliate marketing, and how she has cultivated a community based on real, authentic interactions and support. ...
2021-06-0144 minThe Morning Ish PodcastLet's Talk about Sex (again!) - Carlen talks about Sex, Orgasms, Sensuality and Body AutonomyContinuing our conversation about sex and sexuality, we turn to expert Dr. Carlen Costa to discuss orgasms, pleasure, body autonomy, partners and sensuality. We discuss the Orgasm Gap, what it means to look in the mirror and love yourself, and how to embrace your sexuality no matter what stage of life you are in.Carlen is a Clinical Sexologist, Psychotherapist, creator of the Everyday Goddess brand and 1 Million Orgasms Movement. She uses her platform to empower and educate humans about their bodies and sexuality, working with both male and female identifying humans.https://www.carlencosta.com/
2021-05-2557 minThe Morning Ish PodcastBring on the Babies! Rachel and Shannon talk about Birth StoriesFrom chaotic vaginal births to twin cesarean, Rachel and Shannon share openly about the birth stories that made them moms. From complications to hospital stays, healing experiences and compassionate health care professionals - we dig into it all!
2021-05-1839 minThe Morning Ish PodcastI Did It Because I Was Told I Couldn't - Shannon talks about RunningWhy would someone run, if not from zombies or bears? Well, there's something really amazing that happens when you start doing something you were conditioned to believe that you weren't capable of doing. You start believing in yourself. You change your mindset. You start to see yourself in a different way. So, after doing Insanity...Shannon started running. Then she became mildly obsessed with finish lines and running medals, committing to herself that she would always run her own race, pushing through injuries and listening to her own inner rhythm.
2021-05-1146 minThe Morning Ish PodcastThat Doesn't Work For Me - Rachel talks about PerfectionismWhen a messy home puts you in fits of anxiety and the flip side is perfectionism...which can be a trauma response. Where do we learn these habits, or are they even things that are learned? Are the ingrained in us as human beings? How do we slow the cycle of a constant want and need to be perfect?
2021-05-0536 minThe Morning Ish PodcastA Brand New Timeline Starts - Daniel talks about the Evolution of Self and KindnessIn this episode, we welcome special guest Daniel Ortega (founder of Pardon My Kindness) and we have a really open chat about emotional support, awareness of self, personal missions of kindness, mental health and how to ask for help. Daniel is a single dad who is on a mission to make his mark on the world by spreading kindness daily and being a real, emotional, human being.Check out Pardon My Kindness at www.pardonmykindness.com and www.instagram.com/pardonmykindness
2021-04-271h 04The Morning Ish PodcastGiddy Up, Friends - Shannon and Rachel talk about Privilege and Influencer CultureIn this episode, we take a deep (and fired up) dive into the waters of privilege and influencer culture. We discuss how the past year has shone a light on people who are using their seat of privilege for their own personal gain and not for good and how they are hurting their communities more than helping. We also call out the influencer culture and those who have large captivated audiences, who aren't using their platforms to squash systems of oppression or talk about the bigger topics because, let's face it - that skin care collab is only...
2021-04-2053 minThe Morning Ish PodcastWe're Conditioned to Not Push Back - Shannon talks about Sexual AssaultSexual assault doesn't necessarily mean rape, and there is a lot of misconception to believe that sexual assault is the drunk girl at the party who gets taken advantage of. Society has conditioned us to think very narrowly about sexual assault, but what is often not considered are the so-called-innocent times where our bodies are touched without consent, the times where we are cat-called, the times where lines are crossed, the dress codes that are implemented.It doesn't matter what the intention is, it matters how the act is received by the person being touched. End of story.
2021-04-1333 minThe Morning Ish PodcastYour Second Brain - Rachel talks about Gut HealthAs a sufferer of gut issues, Rachel has become very well versed in doing her research, finding resources and talking openly about her struggles with IBS. In trusting her gut, her second brain, she also knew when something was really off and to investigate it with her health care team....leading to her cancer diagnosis. Whether you struggle with bloating, constipation, indigestion, acid reflux, pain or discomfort...we encourage you to trust your gut!Gut Health resources:Excuse My IBS - https://excusemyibs.com/Love Your Gut - http://loveyourgut.com/help-and-resources/
2021-04-0631 min
The Morning Ish PodcastIt's Intentional and Appalling - Corinne Rice Grey Cloud talks about Indigenous RightsIn a very open and warm chat, we talk about Corinne Rice Grey Cloud about Indigenous rights, the importance of education, paying people for their work and that it's time to stop burying our heads in the sand. From what not to ask, how to have hard conversations, and how to stop being ignorant. We also talk about Corinne's incredible lessons, which you can check out on her Instagram Highlights!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/misscorinne86/
Consulting:
https://www.corinnericeconsulting.com/
Education:
https://www.powwows.com/author/corinne-oestreich/
2021-03-3044 minThe Morning Ish PodcastOvercoming Trauma - Brittney talks about Trauma, Motherhood and MarriageToday, we welcome special guest Brittney Harrison of the Healing Mom Project. Brittney shares openly about how she have navigated a life of trauma while tackling motherhood and marriage. She also talks about being the daughter of an alcoholic, how that has impacted her life and how she navigates things now in adulthood.The Healing Mom Project - https://thehealingmomproject.com/
2021-03-2330 minThe Morning Ish PodcastNo Bad Emotions - Shannon talks about Emotional Awareness and HealingA firm believer that emotions give us a lot of information about the stories we carry, Shannon talks openly about emotional awareness and healing. What happens when you have emotions in a society that has conditioned you to push them away, put them in a jar, and tuck them on a shelf? You face emotional exhaustion, you dissociate, you become a version of yourself that you likely have never met before. We discuss the importance of approaching your emotions with curiosity, putting the weight down by journaling, and how to reclaim yourself from emotional suppression. We also talk...
2021-03-1635 minThe Morning Ish PodcastBig 'Ol Trigger Warning - Rachel and Shannon talk about PTSDPost Traumatic Stress Disorder - defined as a psychiatric disorder that may occur in people who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. Today, we dig deep into our own experiences with PTSD and C-PTSD (complex) - the reasons that landed us with those diagnoses, treatment options and plans, CBT group therapy, acupuncture, the understanding that PTSD is an injury to the brain and so much more. There is life on the other side of your trauma, and you deserve to heal from it.
2021-03-0951 minThe Morning Ish PodcastIt's Not How Much You Make - Rachel talks about MoneyUsing her background in financial services, Rachel talks about all things money related, while Shannon sits in the discomfort of the narratives taught to her about relationships to money. We talk about debt, budgeting, the housing market, credit cards, line of credits...all of the things related to money because it's not how much you make, it's how much you save.
2021-03-021h 06The Morning Ish PodcastChild of a Child - Natasha talks about Teen Pregnancy, Toxic Relationships, and Seeking StabilityIn our guest episode this month, we interview Natasha Cote-Khan - a mom of 6 who reclaimed her life on her own terms. She tells her story of being a child of a child (her mother gave birth to her when she was 14 years old), the experience of not being allowed contact with her father, and what adult relationships looked like with partners and spouses. After years of living on unstable grounds and in a search for stability, she's reached the other side and has shaped her life into something more than she ever expected.
2021-02-2346 minThe Morning Ish PodcastThey Gave us the Weekend, and Everything Closed - Rachel and Shannon talk about Parenting in the PandemicOn March 13, 2020 our world's changed here in Ontario - our kids didn't go back to school until September (and November). The Global Pandemic hit, we were super naïve about it and how long the initial lockdown would last, stress put us into overdrive. Doctors appointments were delayed, kids were doing emergency distance learning, haircuts happened at home, contact tracing in all the places and parenting....learning a new way to show up for our kids. We also discuss what it's like to work from home with all the people up in your grill, the stress for parents who need t...
2021-02-1640 minThe Morning Ish PodcastRacing Thoughts and Catastrophizing - Shannon talks about Panic AttacksIn today's episode, we talk very openly about panic attacks. What they look like, how they mimic PTSD symptoms, the thought process surrounding them, circumstance, patterns and root causes. Shannon's massive fear of death has driven panic attacks, hypervigilance and catastrophizing and only when she did the work on her mental health did they stop. Rachel discusses the physical impact of panic attacks and what her experience has been like, including the impending sense of doom. We also discuss tools that help (Shannon needed rules...specifically, the rules of baseball) and how to recognize your triggers.
2021-02-0924 minThe Morning Ish PodcastWhere's The Other 1%? - Rachel talks about People PleasingFrom being a gifted student to an overly compassionate friend, today we talk about the ways in which we are inherent people pleasers. Is it a need for validation? Is it a genuine want for other to be happy and to spread kindness? In this episode, we break it all down and get candid about expectations, experiences and have some a-ha moments, too!
2021-02-0229 min
The Morning Ish PodcastI Didn't Feel Worthy of Something Better - Nicolle talks about SuicideIn a very open and candid conversation, we sit down with Nicolle Stevenson and talk about her experience with attempted suicide, depression, trauma and how life has changed since surviving suicide. Nicolle is the creator of The MAMA Project, a mental health advocacy organization to help mom's understand who they are and ensure they can access peer support during dark times. She makes sense of how anxiety is the liar in our heads, being honest about your mental health, and how she found life on the other side.If you need support, help is out there....
2021-01-2637 min
The Morning Ish PodcastDon't Be A Dick - Rachel and Shannon talk about BullyingIn this episode, we dig into the systematic picking on of another human being - bullying. With an overarching message of "don't be a dick", Rachel and Shannon share about how bullying impacted them as children, and how they navigate those waters now as parents. We also discuss the concept of self and how it's built between the ages of 10-12, and how one horrible comment can completely skew how you see yourself and ruin your self esteem.If you or someone you know has been bullied, you're not alone. Reach out to us, Kids Help Phone https...
2021-01-1937 min
The Morning Ish PodcastHe Was Everything - Shannon talks about Death of a ParentThe moment she found out. The grief in the immediate days - how it felt and what it looked like. The panic and fear that would follow and greet her around every anniversary and memory, eventually landing with a PTSD diagnosis and heavy therapy to dig into. The moments she misses as she became a parent and the fears that come as she approaches the same age her Dad was when he passed away. We talk about it all, openly and candidly.
2021-01-1259 min
The Morning Ish PodcastI Wanted to Save The World - Rachel talks about Career PathTalking about some big growth moments in this episode that covers careers, meaningful purpose and sense of identity. Rachel opens up about what she studied at Wilfrid Laurier University, the dreams of being a do-gooder, and how everything she thought she wanted for herself changed when she became a parent. Shannon weighs in on just how hard Geography 101 was, her 8-year-old-self career dream, and building a business by her own design to help others.
2021-01-0558 min
The Morning Ish PodcastCan't You Just Love Who You Love? Rachel and Shannon talk about Sex and SexualityFrom shame to sexual attraction to emotional connection...can't you just love who you love? In today's episode, we talk very openly about sexual identity and orientation, preferences, sexual experiences and how a simple conversation turned into a revelation of self. We also talk about sexual education curriculum and how far it's come since we were taught in elementary school, how to raise more aware and compassionate children, and how to have body autonomy and lean into your sexuality after being assaulted.Resources shared in this episode:Kinsey Scale Test - https://www.idrlabs.com/kinsey-scale/test...
2020-12-2953 min
The Morning Ish PodcastI Thought I Dodged That Bullet - Shannon talks about Postpartum Depression and PsychosisBeing high risk due to family history of mental health disorders, Shannon knew that it might happen but she truly thought that she had dodged the bullet. Then all of the things that could go wrong did. Her milk didn't come in, there was birth trauma, suppressed complex life trauma, sleep deprivation. And at 6 weeks, her thoughts were spiraling, inclusive of moments of psychosis. Resources mentioned in this episode:Postpartum Progress - https://postpartumprogress.com/Healthy Babies Healthy Children - http://www.children.gov.on.ca/htdocs/English/earlychildhood/health/index.aspx...
2020-12-2229 min
The Morning Ish PodcastEat the Cheesecake - Rachel talks about Body Image and Diet CultureWhat began as a chat about how Rachel started taking her health seriously after the birth of her twins, quickly turned into a realization that we were actually talking about Diet Culture. The times when Rachel felt restricted, that being bigger than her friends meant that she was fat, and how she overcame what society was teaching her to push forward with a healthier mindset and concept of self.
2020-12-1547 min
The Morning Ish PodcastThey Walked in My Shoes Before I'd Taken Them Off - Marsha talks about JudgementJudgement...something that no one is immune from. Something that we all do, and that fires us up when it happens to us. In this week's episode, we sit down with author, coach and speaker Marsha Vanwynsberghe and discuss this uncomfortable topic, determining that piles of crap covered in maple syrup still smell like crap...and individually, we have to own our piles, inclusive of judgement. To connect with Marsha, you can find her here:https://www.marshavanw.com/https://www.instagram.com/marshavanw/https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/own-your-choices-own-your-life/id1445904739
2020-12-0835 min
The Morning Ish PodcastThere's a Difference Between Anger and Rage - Rachel and Shannon talk about Mom RageDoes being angry make you a bad parent? What happens when the anger turns into rage? Are there little triggers around your house that maybe indicate that the anger is something bigger? In today's episode, we dig into Mom Rage with the intention of normalizing how parents feel from time to time. It's ok to be angry, and it's a lot healthier to feel that anger than suppress it. You don't have to love being a parent all of the time, and it's ok to be angry.
2020-12-0134 min
The Morning Ish PodcastThere Are Two Babies In Here - Rachel talks about Twin Pregnancy"It's funny you say twins...because there are two babies in here." Words that Rachel never thought she would hear. Words that were overwhelming and caused a flood of tears, and completely changed what she thought pregnancy was. In this episode, Rachel gets open and candid about how she found out, what her pregnancy was like, their stay in the NICU, how she transitioned into postpartum and how raising twin boys has been.
2020-11-2451 min
The Morning Ish PodcastThe Carrot of Disappointment - Shannon talks about Toxic Family RelationshipsWe are taught that blood is thicker than water. That family is family and should be upheld before anything else. That the bonds we make with blood relatives are the most important relationships we will ever have. But what happens when family is toxic? What happens when they are complicit in abuse, neglect, assault, and trauma? What happens when they don't show up, but are perfectly comfortable making you out to be the bad guy? In this weeks episode Shannon has very candid talk with Rachel and Toxic Family Relationships and why as an adult it's so important to make...
2020-11-1741 min
The Morning Ish PodcastThe Sharks are Coming! - Rachel and Shannon talk about PeriodsFrom shark week to moon time, Aunt Flo to stabby uterus, in this weeks episode we are talking all about periods. What it was like when we first got ours, the shame surrounding a normal bodily function, and how we can change the course of things for younger generations by being more open about our bleeds. Resources mentioned in this episode:The Elephant in the Womb - https://www.instagram.com/theelephantinthewomb/Saalt Cup - https://saalt.com/Diva Cup - https://divacup.com/Put a Cup In It Quiz...
2020-11-1037 min
The Morning Ish PodcastLovebombing and Insecurity - Megan talks about SurrogacyIn today's episode, we welcome our very first guest, Megan Graham. We have a very open and candid chat with Megan about her experience as a surrogate - how the system she navigated was built on lovebombing and predatory behaviour. How she was left with little support during her postpartum transition, and how she wishes she knew what she knows now.Megan is a passionate parent, partner, and doula who advocates for birthing peoples rights. Based out on Toronto, Ontario, she is especially interested in the rights of surrogates, is an ally of the LGBTQ2+ community, and helps...
2020-11-0332 min
The Morning Ish PodcastForever or For a Season? Rachel and Shannon talk about friendshipsSome friends are meant to stick with you for life, but what happens when the ones you thought would be there for you simply aren't? What about when significant things happen in life and you outgrow your circle? In today's episode, we get honest and candid about friendships - how to navigate them, why they change and why it's ok to outgrow them.
2020-10-2748 min
The Morning Ish PodcastCheck Your Poop - Rachel talks about CancerThat time when things just didn't feel right, and Rachel got her poop checked, eventually leading to a cancer diagnosis and surgery. In today's episode, we discuss what her journey was like, how she told her children, her fears and what life is like now just two short years later.
2020-10-2044 min
The Morning Ish PodcastI am 1 in 4 - Shannon talks about MiscarriageIn today's episode, Shannon talks candidly with Rachel about her miscarriage - something she never thought would happen, but eventually did in 2013. We talk about how it happened, how it felt emotionally isolating and what others can do to support someone going through a miscarriage.
2020-10-1331 min
The Morning Ish PodcastWhat the Ish is this?Welcome to The Morning Ish! In our very first episode, we introduce you to the two humans behind the Ish, Rachel and Shannon, and talk about what you can find here in this space. Welcome! We are so happy you found us!
2020-10-0617 min