If you know what LYLAS stands for, then this podcast is for you! Two besties since middle school turned moms and psychologists dish on "the good, the fun, and the yucks" of life! We're tackling all things mental health, "mom balance" (whatever the hell that is), transitions in life (divorce, career, aging parents, parent loss, loss of friendships), self-care, travel, healthy habits, raising kids, and allllllll the things us midlife mamas are experiencing. We hope each week listeners feel like they just left a good ol' therapy session with their bestie! We'll dish on all the tips and tricks to keep your mental health in check and enjoy this thing called life! Meet your life's newest cheerleaders-- Sarah & Jen! LYLAS!
Send us a textReady for a raw and real conversation about midlife challenges? Picture this: you're navigating the emotional ups and downs of perimenopause while grappling with the complex feelings of aging and loss. That's exactly what our summer looked like, and we're here to share our journey as we dive into these struggles head-on. This season, we've got incredible guests lined up, but today's episode is all about forgiveness—a topic that's deeply personal and universally relevant.Ever found yourself holding onto resentment because you're convinced of someone else's ill intentions? We've been there too. This episode unpacks how our personal narratives can twist our perceptions of others' actions and how sudden shifts in understanding can lead to instant forgiveness. By sharing our own stories, we highlight the importance of considering alternative perspectives and the danger of justifying our own mistakes while blaming others. It's about adopting a more compassionate and balanced view, ultimately leading to healthier relationships.Forgiveness isn't just about letting others off the hook; it's about freeing ourselves from the weight of negative emotions. Through insights and a touch of Buddhist philosophy, we discuss the profound impact of holding onto anger and how letting go can improve our mental and physical health. Plus, we explore practical tools like meditation and wellness apps to maintain emotional balance. As we wrap up, we're excited to introduce new interactive features for The LYLAS Podcast, inviting you to be part of our community and share your thoughts for future episodes. Join us on this transformative journey—your midlife self will thank you.Please be sure to checkout our website for previous episodes, our psych-approved resource page, and connect with us on social media! All this and more at www.thelylaspodcast.com
9/9/24 • 34:01
Send us a textIt's our last "Re-Release for the Summer!" And, what better way to end it than with "God Winks!!!" What's a "God Wink?"Have you ever experienced a perfectly timed podcast or an unexpected alignment with a biblical passage? Such serendipitous events are at the heart of our discussion on synchronicity and spiritual nudges. From spontaneous actions inspired by intuition to sudden, meaningful moments during meditation, we explore how these experiences enrich our lives. By sharing anecdotes of profound occurrences, we highlight the value of tuning into our inner voice and being present, underscoring how these "God Winks" act as gentle reminders that we are loved, cared for, and on the right path.Don't forget to give us a review! Text the show! Share with a friend!!!! Season 4 hits the podcast airwaves on September 9th!!!!Please be sure to checkout our website for previous episodes, our psych-approved resource page, and connect with us on social media! All this and more at www.thelylaspodcast.com
8/26/24 • 50:41
Send us a textHere's to another fav from Season 3, "Be the Energy You Wish to See in the World." With this being a time of transition, it is important to be mindful of our own energy, which we are bringing to the table and the energy we may be unintentionally absorbing from others! Season 4 is in the works RIGHT NOW! Text the show with your ideas!!! And, please write us a review!!!!Please be sure to checkout our website for previous episodes, our psych-approved resource page, and connect with us on social media! All this and more at www.thelylaspodcast.com
8/20/24 • 62:39
Send us a textHow timely! As the kiddos head back to school and we reset our lives, "sharing the mental load" is key! Listen to this re-release of this fav episode from Season 3 of The LYLAS Podcast!Do you have a topic idea? TXT the SHOW!!!! We can't wait to hear from you!Please be sure to checkout our website for previous episodes, our psych-approved resource page, and connect with us on social media! All this and more at www.thelylaspodcast.com
8/13/24 • 37:18
Send us a textEver wondered how to turn back-to-school chaos into a structured, efficient routine? School psychologist Jennifer Saunders joins us with 15 years of public school experience to share actionable insights and practical strategies for families. From establishing consistent morning routines to embracing planning, Jennifer's advice will arm you with the tools needed for a smooth transition into the new school year. Learn how to manage the excitement, anxiety, and stress that often accompany this period.In our conversation, we dive into the importance of setting up consistent sleep and morning routines for children. Using personal anecdotes, we illustrate how different temperaments can benefit from structured checklists to foster independence and time management. Whether your child needs prompts or is naturally self-sufficient, we provide tips to adapt routines to suit various personalities and ensure a calm start to each day. We also emphasize maintaining these routines even during travel to keep the school year on track.Navigating school transitions can be emotionally complex for both parents and children. Jennifer shares valuable insights on separation anxiety, the demanding nature of educators' roles, and the importance of open communication within the family. Discover how to support your children, recognize when professional help is needed, and prepare your family for the school year. Don't miss our tips on connecting with the Lylas Podcast online for more insights and updates, and get ready to make this school year your best yet!Please be sure to checkout our website for previous episodes, our psych-approved resource page, and connect with us on social media! All this and more at www.thelylaspodcast.com
8/5/24 • 50:52
Send us a textHere it is! The re-release of Jen's life-changing experience from talking to "The Hollywood Medium, Tyler Henry!" 👻 Listen along as Jen details how she scored a reading with the most sought-after medium on the planet! Not only did she receive messages from her Dad, and grandparents, but a surprise guest came through that she least expected! This experience completely changed her perception of loss and provided such peace to her soul. If you’ve ever lost someone you loved dearly, this episode is most certainly for you!!!Please be sure to checkout our website for previous episodes, our psych-approved resource page, and connect with us on social media! All this and more at www.thelylaspodcast.com
7/29/24 • 44:02
Send us a textThis is your sign to take "to be happy" off of your goal list... Happiness is a temporary state of being---not a place to live. This is critical when it comes to how we parent. As we mentioned in the first release of this episode, research on our actions may be preventing our children from experiencing needed distress. Yes, needed. Distress is an opportunity to learn coping skills and grow as an individual. Listen to how we, as moms, work to reframe our responses... #momlife #happinessisnothegoal #thelylaspodcast #psychology #distressisneeded #growth Please be sure to checkout our website for previous episodes, our psych-approved resource page, and connect with us on social media! All this and more at www.thelylaspodcast.com
7/22/24 • 59:35
Send us a textOn the struggle bus? Summer slump got ya off your goals? Don't worry in this episode we got your pass to the "Motivation Station" to get back on YOUR track! Please be sure to checkout our website for previous episodes, our psych-approved resource page, and connect with us on social media! All this and more at www.thelylaspodcast.com
7/15/24 • 56:39
Send us a textHere is a classic and needed re-visit of our Season 2 episode, "Toxic Relationships." As we hopefully take some time to reflect while on a trip, sitting in our car enjoying a coffee or icecream, or while just finding a moment to breathe, we sometimes come to a point where we realize some relationships are no longer serving us and need to be let go with "love and light." Listen in as we hash this one out! Also, don't forget to hit-up our social media with suggestions for Season 4 coming this fall!Please be sure to checkout our website for previous episodes, our psych-approved resource page, and connect with us on social media! All this and more at www.thelylaspodcast.com
7/8/24 • 56:58
Send us a textSo we are kicking it back to some of our favorites from Seasons 1-3 of The LYLAS Podcast as we prepare for Season 4! This hot fav from Season 1 hopefully hits us all where we need it most during these summer months... working on having some "Rituals & Routines" to survive the heat, the kiddos being home, and how our lives can just get off track... "its fine," lol! Be sure to follow, like, and subscribe on all our social media accounts and give us some suggestions for topics for Season 4!Please be sure to checkout our website for previous episodes, our psych-approved resource page, and connect with us on social media! All this and more at www.thelylaspodcast.com
7/1/24 • 52:27
Send us a textEver wondered how one balances a demanding career (like in child advocacy) with the responsibilities of parenthood? Special guest, Lyndsey Smith, one of the "OGs" from our childhood shares how to balance protectiveness with granting independence to our kiddos, all while sharing laughter and the occasional ghost story from our younger years! Don’t miss this heartfelt episode that blends nostalgia with impactful conversations on child advocacy and parenting.Also, this concludes Season 3!!!! Please submit topic ideas to our social media accounts and website! We want to hear, what YOU want to hear!!! Please be sure to checkout our website for previous episodes, our psych-approved resource page, and connect with us on social media! All this and more at www.thelylaspodcast.com
6/3/24 • 64:15
Send us a textHave you ever met someone whose resilience in the face of adversity not only defines them but also uplifts those around them? Meet Candi—a beacon of strength, grace, and determination, balancing being a mom, and active community-volunteer, with the reality of battling five autoimmune disorders. Our latest episode introduces you to this remarkable individual, whose story will grip your heart and inspire your spirit. Candi reveals how pageantry became her refuge, a place where camaraderie triumphs and women empower one another amidst life’s relentless demands. Her candid reflection on living with conditions like Crohn’s Disease and Fibromyalgia is a vivid illustration of the grit required to face invisible battles while maintaining a semblance of normalcy.Please be sure to checkout our website for previous episodes, our psych-approved resource page, and connect with us on social media! All this and more at www.thelylaspodcast.com
5/20/24 • 57:03
Send us a textThe silent battles with mental health are often cloaked in the shadows of stigma and can lead to the most tragic event of all: suicide. Our latest episode takes a heartfelt look at this issue through a moving memorial service for a woman who lost her fight. This is a difficult topic. But if we want to change the stigma surrounding one of the leading causes of death in the United States, we have to start to become comfortable with discussing the uncomfortable. We need to move towards greater empathy and understanding. Our show is a call to action for more open conversations surrounding mental health, urging a collective approach to foster a more empathetic society in which no one suffers in silence. Help is available. Text or call 988. There is hope. There are people who care. There are other options. Please be sure to checkout our website for previous episodes, our psych-approved resource page, and connect with us on social media! All this and more at www.thelylaspodcast.com
5/13/24 • 44:43
Send us a textIt's decision time... whatever the decision is, what is your response or reaction... Do you listen to anxiety, what's "safe or familiar" or do you see the decision as an opportunity... as a gift? Coming to this crossroad happens... now what? We believe you've got this...Please be sure to checkout our website for previous episodes, our psych-approved resource page, and connect with us on social media! All this and more at www.thelylaspodcast.com
5/6/24 • 37:55
Send us a textCoincidence or something bigger than this world? The Universe? God? Whatever you choose to call “IT”, have you experienced a wink from your higher power? You may pass it off as a coincidence, but oftentimes these are signs pointing us in the right direction and/or messages from loved ones. Take some time to sit and observe. Just sit and look. You might be surprised by what you see! Please be sure to checkout our website for previous episodes, our psych-approved resource page, and connect with us on social media! All this and more at www.thelylaspodcast.com
4/29/24 • 50:01
Send us a textIn this week’s LYLAS episode we explore the people-pleaser mentality, setting personal boundaries and the journey towards inner fulfillment. We share stories from our family trip that highlight the delicate work-life balance and the pressure to meet external expectations. We'll discuss the importance of avoiding judgment and taking responsibility for our own happiness, and the pitfalls of tying our self-worth to others' approval. We'll share insights into recognizing the sources of our own joy and cherishing life's simple pleasures. Through our experiences, we'll show you how we’re prioritizing our happiness by nurturing those relationships that deposit into our emotional banks.Please be sure to checkout our website for previous episodes, our psych-approved resource page, and connect with us on social media! All this and more at www.thelylaspodcast.com
4/22/24 • 43:22
Send us a textHave you ever caught yourself pouring all your emotional energy into a bottomless pit, or letting someone else dictate your mood and self-worth? Our latest chat goes back to basics, matching the raw and authentic nature of our discussion on emotional power and control. We open up about the pitfalls of misdirected emotional investments and share actionable advice to reclaim your power, ensuring your energy is spent on aspects of life truly deserving of your time and attention.By conceptualizing our energy as a bank, we discuss the importance of investing in reciprocal relationships and the empowerment that comes from resilience. So join us as we journey through the tactics of inner strength, finding freedom from outside influence, and aligning with your authentic self to attract the right kind of energy into your world.Please be sure to checkout our website for previous episodes, our psych-approved resource page, and connect with us on social media! All this and more at www.thelylaspodcast.com
4/15/24 • 36:22
Send us a textWhat’s that law “Energy is neither created nor destroyed." The energy we bring to a room affects ourselves, the people/animals around us, and often times the outcome of a situation. This week we talk energy, as in, what energy are you bringing to those around you? We chat how to notice our energy, what practices influence our energy, and how we often match the energy of those around us. Our energy is the essence of who we are and how we show up in the world. Energy is contagious– good or bad, so let’s be aware of our energy, the energy of others and how we can use our energy to achieve our greatest desires!Please be sure to checkout our website for previous episodes, our psych-approved resource page, and connect with us on social media! All this and more at www.thelylaspodcast.com
4/5/24 • 61:55
Send us a textIn this episode, we circle back to meditation and discuss how our practice(s) have changed in the past year. We go in-depth on how and why we started to meditate. Every day this is more empirical support for why we should be integrating meditation in our daily wellness routine. People often say they've tried to meditate but just couldn't do it. Bottom line, if you can breathe, you can meditate! It really is that simple! Press play to learn our tips and tricks for how to start a meditation practice and remember the goal of meditation is not to clear your thoughts; rather learn how to notice your thoughts as they pass and return to your focus to your breath. Don’t be intimidated….be CURIOUS! Please be sure to checkout our website for previous episodes, our psych-approved resource page, and connect with us on social media! All this and more at www.thelylaspodcast.com
4/1/24 • 62:34
Send us a textFor the first time in over 25 years, your LYLAS girls went on a retreat! This time a health and wellness retreat focused on diving deep into self-understanding and reflection via “Chopra Health Retreat: Ayurvedic Lifestyle Program.” We meditated twice daily, exercised, attended learning sessions, had incredible spa services, drank the fiber drinks, and digested the detox pills. It was a journey in those short 5 days. We learned so much about ourselves and made new friends along the way. We also got a little rowdy at the end because, you can take the girls out of West Virginia but you can’t take the WV out of us LYLAS girls! Listen in for our takeaways on how we are improving our own self care, new discoveries, strengths, and of course, what we plan to work on moving forward!www.thelylaspodcast.com --- Look here for a link to sign up for your Chopra Retreat!Please be sure to checkout our website for previous episodes, our psych-approved resource page, and connect with us on social media! All this and more at www.thelylaspodcast.com
3/25/24 • 58:26
Send us a textCounting your achievements and recognizing areas of growth are daily practices– not perfected skills. Our chat today recognizes how far we have come, what we are proud of, and what we are still working on as part of our “little podcast that could.” Huge thanks to all of you for being with us all along the way! Cheers to the next 50!!!Don't forget to find and follow us on all social media! Mention this episode on any of our pages and share it on your page--- WIN a free koozie!www.thelylaspodcast.comPlease be sure to checkout our website for previous episodes, our psych-approved resource page, and connect with us on social media! All this and more at www.thelylaspodcast.com
3/18/24 • 58:15
Send us a text Season 3, Episode 49: “Loss & Opportunity: Honoring Grief of a Friend.” Recent life experiences and requests from listeners have converged again for this hopeful discussion on coping with the death of a friend. The loss of a friend is a different type of grief and not one we had experienced until recently. In this episode, Jen talks about the recent loss of a dear friend and how she is working to recognize silver linings in the midst of deep grief and sadness.Check us out at: www.thelylaspodcast.com Please be sure to checkout our website for previous episodes, our psych-approved resource page, and connect with us on social media! All this and more at www.thelylaspodcast.com
3/4/24 • 38:36
Send us a textDon’t let yourself get caught in the “happiness trap!” Expecting an event or achieving a goal to make you happy might make you feel the opposite. Learning to find joy in life’s valleys requires us to get comfortable with being uncomfortable. In this episode, we talk about life’s peaks and valleys and how you find happiness wherever you are. You are the creator of your own life. Take ownership of your happiness! Be sure to follow us on all social media and check out our website for helpful info and links to previous episodes: www.thelylaspodcast.com.PS- A good accompaniment to this episode is from Season 2, "Chronic Happiness is not the Goal," a reminder this relates to the harm we cause by trying the impossible goal of making our kids always happy.Please be sure to checkout our website for previous episodes, our psych-approved resource page, and connect with us on social media! All this and more at www.thelylaspodcast.com
2/26/24 • 32:37
Send us a textThe person we will spend the most time in our life with is our partner. I guess, technically speaking we spend the most time with ourselves, but after that, it's your spouse/partner/significant other. We need to nurture those relationships and DO THE WORK just like in everything else we do that’s a priority. In this episode, Sarah and Jen talk about how to rekindle the romance when you feel disconnected from your significant other. Shout out to Angie Via-Hairston for this fun topic!! Thank you so much for your support!! https://ourworldindata.org/time-with-others-lifetimehttps://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/relationship-matters/201802/how-keep-the-romance-alivePlease be sure to follow our website! www.thelylaspodcast.comPlease be sure to checkout our website for previous episodes, our psych-approved resource page, and connect with us on social media! All this and more at www.thelylaspodcast.com
2/19/24 • 38:01
Send us a textThe mental load is the invisible weight we carry around. It can negatively affect our mental health and serve as friction points in our relationship. But how do you share a weight no one wants to carry?! Validation–the struggle is real– and some pointers ARE shared here 😀!Don't forget our website for more videos and resources! www.thelylaspodcast.comPlease be sure to checkout our website for previous episodes, our psych-approved resource page, and connect with us on social media! All this and more at www.thelylaspodcast.com
2/12/24 • 36:36
Send us a text Listener suggested, and we answered! Loving someone who is struggling with mental health issues is no picnic. You can support your loved one AND not agree with their behavior. You can love someone and their mental illness just as we love people with health-related illnesses; with compassion. In this episode, Sarah and Jen provide tips on how you can support a loved one with mental health disorders. Don't forget to follow us on all social media sites and to checkout our website for more resources and NEW videos!!!www.thelylaspodcast.comPlease be sure to checkout our website for previous episodes, our psych-approved resource page, and connect with us on social media! All this and more at www.thelylaspodcast.com
2/5/24 • 60:39
Send us a text “New Year, new you?” How about New Year, Better me! Maybe we reaffirm guidelines for ourselves to live our lives more authentically, creating the life we desire! We share our In’s and Out’s for this new year and so much more! www.thelylaspodcast.com--tons of resource here!Follow Us on Instagram and Facebook!Follow and subscribe to our shorts on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thelylaspodcast Please be sure to checkout our website for previous episodes, our psych-approved resource page, and connect with us on social media! All this and more at www.thelylaspodcast.com
1/8/24 • 39:04
Send us a textGaslighting and Narcissism. Offff… Seems we can’t get away from these two terms and our use of them may be doing more to stigmatize mental health, than help. Also, what do we do if we question whether we are in a relationship where we feel we are “being gaslighted?” www.thelylaspodcast.com Please be sure to checkout our website for previous episodes, our psych-approved resource page, and connect with us on social media! All this and more at www.thelylaspodcast.com
1/8/24 • 32:34
Send us a textFinding yourself at the metaphorical “fork in the road” is inevitable! Self-doubt, worry, imposter syndrome… all the yucks could potentially stand in your way and block you from incredible growth opportunities! In this episode, we cover how you’ll know you’re making the right decision and how to support yourself during times of change and growth! https://www.thelylaspodcast.comPlease be sure to checkout our website for previous episodes, our psych-approved resource page, and connect with us on social media! All this and more at www.thelylaspodcast.com
12/18/23 • 46:53
Send us a textIn our Season 3 opener, we are honoring the requests of our listeners by hitting the holiday blues, how to cope with the loss of loved ones over the holidays, what exactly is SAD and how does it differ from “the blues?Be sure to check out our website for resources on this one and all episodes!https://www.thelylaspodcast.com And, like, share, and comment on our social media pages!!!Please be sure to checkout our website for previous episodes, our psych-approved resource page, and connect with us on social media! All this and more at www.thelylaspodcast.com
12/11/23 • 39:59
