This Wasn't the Plan

Six months ago, something ended. For me it was IVF, and the dream of a life I'd spent years trying to build. But this episode isn't just about infertility - it's about what happens after any hard chapter closes and you're left figuring out who you are now.This is my honest six-month update. Not the performed version. Not the "look how far I've come" highlight reel. The real one - including the parts I've been embarrassed to say out loud.I talk about what genuine healing actually looks like when you're still in it. I talk about your body after it's been through something - hormonal shifts, grief weight, the strange experience of looking in the mirror and not quite recognizing yourself. And I talk about why six months is nothing. Why your body, your identity, and your sense of self take so much longer to recalibrate than anyone tells you - especially in your late thirties, forties, and fifties.If you've come out of a divorce, a loss, a fertility journey, a career ending, or any chapter that took more from you than you expected - this one is for you.In this episode:What healing looks like when you're surprised by your own progress but not yet doneWhy your body isn't failing you — it's just on its own timelineThe truth about recovering physically after something hormonally or emotionally significantWhy comparison to who you were before is an unfair data setWhat's actually helped: the unsexy, repetitive, boring things that move the needleWhy consistency and grace will always outperform pressure and perfectionCode PODCAST40 gets you 40% off the Reclamation Guide at www.tararesnick.comConnect with Tara Resnick:Instagram: @tararesnickTikTok: @tara_resnickhttps://tararesnick.com/

Nobody counted more carefully than you. Nobody tried harder. And it still didn't work — and that's not a coincidence, that's a system that was never built for your body.This week I'm sitting down with Gina Livy — weight loss expert, bestselling author, and founder of The Livy Method — a program specifically designed for women who are done with the diet-culture hamster wheel and ready for something that actually works.But before she became the go-to expert for hundreds of thousands of women? She pivoted. Hard. Gina shares her own story of turning life's unexpected turns into her greatest power — and how that journey became the foundation of everything she now teaches.We get into ALL of it:Why calories in, calories out is one of the most dangerous oversimplifications in women's healthHow hormones, perimenopause, and menopause are running the show in ways nobody warned you aboutThe psychology behind our relationship with food — and why shame has never once made anyone healthierWhy ditching the scale, the measuring cups, and the counting might be the most radical thing you do for your bodyHow the real factors — stress, grief, identity loss, life upheaval — live in our bodies and affect our weight in ways traditional programs completely ignoreThis conversation hit different for me. Because so many of the women in this community are already doing the hard work of rebuilding their lives after something they didn't plan for — and their bodies are carrying that story too.You were never broken. You just never had the full picture.Gina Livy is the bold, purpose-driven founder and CEO of The Livy Method, a lifestyle behavior change program transforming weight loss by helping people focus on how they eat, think, and feel. As a best-selling author and keynote speaker, Gina has helped over 150,000 people ditch diets for good. With 30+ years of experience, she’s built a community in 55+ countries, with over 7M podcast downloads and a mission to make weight loss kind, accessible, and sustainable.The Livy Method Spring Live Session begins on April 20, 2026, and runs for 91 days. The program is hosted within a private Facebook community and includes access to the new Livy Method App, which features built-in LivyAI for a personal experience, along with ongoing support and guidance from their program specialists.Connect with Gina Livy:Instagram: @ginalivyhttps://livymethod.comConnect with Tara Resnick:Instagram: @tararesnickTikTok: @tara_resnickhttps://tararesnick.com/

Losing a friend as an adult is one of the most common — and most untalked about — experiences we go through. And yet almost no one gives us permission to actually grieve it.In this honest solo episode, I share my own experiences losing a close friend during the hardest chapter of her life, and why that loss cracked something open I couldn't ignore.I walk through the three archetypes of friendship loss I developed, why adult friendships naturally shed as we grow, and why some people simply don't have the capacity for hard, honest conversations — and what that means for the relationships in your life.This episode is about normalizing friendship breakups, giving yourself permission to grieve them fully, and understanding why difficult life seasons will always reveal who's actually built to stay.Topics covered:Why adult friendships endFriendship breakups and growing apartHow to grieve a friendship endingAvoidant friendships and conflict avoidance in adultsLosing friends during hard life seasonsThe three types of friendship lossConnect with Tara: Instagram: @tararesnickTikTok: @tara_resnickhttps://tararesnick.com/

Grief can come from infertility, lost dreams, identity shifts, divorce, career changes, or the life you thought you were going to have.In this episode, I sit down with grief and resilience expert Blair Kaplan Venables to talk about what it actually means to live through loss and come out the other side with purpose.Blair shares her personal story of navigating deep grief and how those experiences shaped her work helping others process loss, build resilience, and create meaning from painful chapters of life.Together we explore how grief shows up in ways we often ignore, why unprocessed grief can manifest physically, and how sharing our stories can help others heal.This conversation also dives into the unexpected paths life can take when things do not go according to plan - and how those plot twists can open the door to growth, purpose, and resilience.If you are navigating grief, rebuilding after loss, or learning how to live a life you never planned, this episode will remind you that healing is possible and that your pain can become part of your purpose.Connect with Tara Resnick:Instagram: @tararesnickTikTok: tara_resnickhttps://tararesnick.com/Connect with Blair Kaplan-VeneblesInstagram: @blairfromblairlandhttps://blairkaplan.ca/https://theglobalresilienceproject.com/

Life rarely goes according to plan - but the chapters that challenge us the most can also teach us the most. In this Season 2 premiere of This Wasn’t the Plan, I sit down with Jess Prudhomme from The Great Detour™ to talk about navigating the realities of divorce, friendship breakups during hard seasons, and infertility.Together, we explore resilience, and how to embrace your next chapter with confidence, wisdom, and self-trust after heartbreak, IVF struggles, or major life pivots. I also share personal updates on post-IVF life, new family moments, and the lessons of rebuilding on your own terms.If you’ve ever felt like your timeline is off, your plans have been rerouted, or your relationships are shifting, this conversation is for you. Get ready to reclaim your story, honor your journey, and step boldly into what’s next.Get the Reclamation Guide, my step-by-step 30 day guide for rebuilding your life and identity after a hard chapter, and stepping into your best season. 40% off flash sale until March 3 use code HEAL40 at checkou!https://tararesnick.com/the-reclamation-guide-rebuild-your-life-and-identity-after-a-hard-chapterConnect with Tara Resnick:Instagram: @tararesnickTikTok: @tara_resnickhttps://tararesnick.com/Connect with Jess Prudhomme:Instagram: @thegreatdetourhttps://www.thegreatdetour.com/

What happens when you stop chasing the life you were told to want and choose yourself instead?In the Season 1 finale of This Wasn’t the Plan, I sit down with Victoria for an honest, deeply validating conversation about being childfree by circumstance after infertility. After four years of trying to conceive, two rounds of IVF, and four miscarriages, Victoria and her husband made the conscious decision to stop trying - not because it hurt less, but because continuing came at too high a cost.Together, we talk about the grief no one prepares you for, the pressure to keep going, and the strength it takes to walk away from a dream that once defined your future. This episode explores what it really means to choose yourself after infertility, how to navigate life without the timeline you imagined, and why being childfree by circumstance does not make your life smaller, less meaningful, or incomplete.This conversation is for anyone experiencing infertility, IVF burnout, pregnancy loss, miscarriage grief, or redefining their identity and purpose after life takes an unexpected turn. It is also for women who are tired of being asked intrusive questions like “Do you have kids?” without space for the reality of what they have endured.If you are learning how to rebuild, redefine your future, or trust yourself again after loss, this episode will remind you that your life still matters - and that choosing yourself is not giving up.Season 2 launches March 2, 2026!Connect with Tara:Instagram: @tararesnickTikTok: @tara_resnickhttps://tararesnick.com/Connect with Victoria:Instagram: @victoriamahoney29

In this episode, I sit down with writer and creator of The Life Actually Company, Laura Behnke, for an honest conversation about releasing societal timelines and learning how to meet the life you never saw coming....multiple times.Laura shares how her 30s unfolded in ways she never expected - from letting go of pressure around marriage and milestones, to meeting her now husband later than planned, to navigating unimaginable loss when both of their fathers were diagnosed with cancer and passed away in the same year.We talk about fertility struggles, needing IVF due to a rare genetic disorder, the emotional toll of trying to conceive, and the curveballs that continued long after she thought the hardest part was over. Laura also opens up about what it was like to finally become a mother - and then face another life-altering diagnosis just months later.This episode is not about overcoming for the sake of inspiration. It is about reality. About grief, uncertainty, resilience, and what it means to live a life that looks nothing like the one you imagined - and still find meaning inside it.If you have ever felt behind, blindsided, or deeply exhausted by trying to control an uncontrollable life, this conversation will meet you exactly where you are.Connect with Tara:Instagram: @tararesnickTikTok: @tara_resnickhttps://tararesnick.com/Connect with Laura:Instagram: @laurabehnkehttps://www.laurabehnke.com/

In this episode, Jessica Field opens up about navigating life’s unexpected turns - from moving across the continent and starting over, to facing infertility and multiple miscarriages. She shares how trusting herself, embracing change, and building resilience have shaped her journey. Tune in for an honest, empowering conversation about strength, resilience, and finding your path through life’s unplanned challenges.Connect with Tara:Instagram: @tararesnickTikTok: @tara_resnickJoin The Unplanned Life Community:https://tararesnick.com/the-unplanned-life-community-childfree-womenConnect with Jessica:Instagram: @yourspiritualwellnesscoachhttps://www.yourspiritualwellnesscoach.com/

What happens when you are childfree not by choice and forced to grieve a life you deeply wanted?In this solo episode, I speak honestly about infertility, choosing to stop trying, and what it actually means to be ok after letting go of the dream of motherhood. This is not a conversation about positivity, manifestation, or silver linings. It is about grief, agency, boundaries, and learning how to live fully on the other side of loss.I share how traveling to Paris helped reconnect me to my body and reminded me that life does not end when one dream does. I also address the pressure women face to stay hopeful, trust the law of attraction, consider adoption, or continue trying at all costs - and why deciding to stop is an act of self love, not failure.This episode is for women navigating childlessness not by choice, infertility grief, or the complicated reality of choosing peace after years of striving. You are not broken. Your life is not a consolation prize. And you are allowed to choose yourself.Connect with Tara Resnick:Instagram: @tararesnickTikTok: @tara_resnickhttps://tararesnick.com/

Dating after major life changes like breakups, divorce or infertility can feel confusing and overwhelming - but it doesn’t have to. In this episode, Aleeza Ben Shalom from the Netflix series Jewish Matchmaking, shares her insights on modern dating, starting over, and building self-confidence.You’ll discover how to:Navigate dating with clarity and intentionAvoid repeating old patterns that keep you stuckHandle sensitive questions about children with confidenceEmbrace your story as a source of strength and attractionBuild self-confidence and find meaningful connectionsWhether you’re reinventing your love life, healing from setbacks, or ready to date with purpose, this conversation offers practical strategies, mindset shifts, and encouragement to help you find love again on your own terms.Connect with Tara Resnick:Instagram: @tararesnickTikTok: @tara_resnickhttps://tararesnick.com/Connect with Aleeza Ben Shalom:Instagram: @aleezabenshalomhttps://marriagemindedmentor.com/

What does it really mean to be childfree by circumstance - and how do you grieve the life you thought you would have while still creating one that feels meaningful and joyful?In this episode, I’m joined by Adriana Rodriguez-Baptiste and Caroline Bloss from Healing Roots Together, a support community for women who are childfree by circumstance and navigating life after infertility, pregnancy loss, or unexpected childlessness.We talk openly about the grief that doesn’t have a timeline, the identity shifts that come with letting go of Plan A, and how to find purpose, connection, and joy in a life that looks different than expected. Adriana and Caroline share how mindfulness, community support, and intentional healing practices can help women move from survival mode to actually thriving.If you are childfree by circumstance, struggling with unresolved grief, or trying to figure out who you are after infertility, this conversation will help you feel less alone and more grounded in what comes next.Topics we cover:What it means to be childfree by circumstanceGrieving the loss of motherhood and Plan AFinding joy and meaning in Plan BMindfulness tools to support healing after infertilityWhy community and support groups matterHow Healing Roots Together helps women thrive after lossThis episode is for women who want to honor their grief without letting it define their future.Connect with Tara Resnick:https://tararesnick.com/Instagram: @tararesnickTikTok: @tara_resnickConnect with Adriana and Caroline:https://healingrootstogether.com/Instagram: @healing.roots.together

In this personal update episode of This Wasn’t the Plan, I share my journey of grief, healing, and growth after deciding to end my fertility journey and embracing life as childfree. I discuss taking time off for therapy, self-care, and processing, along with my experiences with hormone health and slowing down to honor myself.You’ll hear insights on:Healing and reclaiming your energy after infertilityPrioritizing self-care and mental wellbeingEmbracing life as childfree with acceptance and clarityLessons on compassion for yourself while navigating growthConnect with Tara Resnick:Website: https://tararesnick.com/Instagram: @tararesnickTikTok: @tara_resnick

In this episode of This Wasn’t the Plan, I sit down with relationship expert and writer Sabrina Bendory to explore self-worth, dating patterns, mindset shifts, and the power of detachment.You’ll learn:How to reconnect with yourself to show up aligned and secure in all relationshipsUnderstanding and breaking repeated relationship patternsMindset shifts to choose yourself, heal, and set boundariesGuidance for stepping away from relationships that no longer serve youThis episode is for women ready to rebuild confidence, find clarity, and create the love and life they truly deserve.Connect with Sabrina Bendory:Instagram: @sabrinabendory & @youwillbeokpodcastYouTube: @sabrinabendoryConnect with Tara Resnick:Instagram: @tararesnickTikTok: @tara_resnickWebsite: https://tararesnick.com/

In this episode of This Wasn’t the Plan, I sit down with Dr. Lucky Sekhon, double board certified OBGYN and Reproductive Endocrinologist, to discuss everything women need to know about reproductive health, fertility, and egg freezing.You’ll learn:Key facts about fertility across all life stagesThe realities of IVF, egg freezing, and fertility journeysHow to advocate for your reproductive health and navigate misinformationThe emotional and mental health impacts of fertility decisionsThis episode provides clarity, validation, and grounded guidance for women planning for their future, experiencing infertility and understanding their bodies.Pre-order Dr. Lucky Sekhon’s book The Lucky Egg:https://static.macmillan.com/static/smp/lucky-egg-9781250408716/Connect with Dr. Lucky Sekhon:Instagram: @lucky.sekhonTikTok: @drluckyeggWebsite: https://theluckyegg.com/Connect with Tara Resnick:Instagram: @tararesnickTikTok: @tara_resnickWebsite: https://tararesnick.com/

In this episode of This Wasn’t the Plan, Eboni K. Williams shares her journey of personal transformation, choosing herself, and becoming a single mom by choice. Tara and Eboni discuss how childhood patterns shape decisions, navigating relationships, egg freezing, IVF, and the power of self-compassion and community among women.You’ll learn:How to step out of comfort zones and embrace personal growthMaking choices that protect your future self in relationships and fertilityThe emotional realities of IVF and single motherhood by choiceHow self-awareness and accountability create a life aligned with your valuesThis episode is for women in seasons of reinvention, healing, or starting over, offering clarity, courage, and inspiration to choose yourself.Connect with Eboni K. Williams:Instagram: @ebonikwilliamsConnect with Tara Resnick:Instagram: @tararesnickTikTok: @tara_resnickWebsite: https://tararesnick.com/

In this episode of This Wasn’t the Plan, I answer listener questions about navigating change, rebuilding confidence, and moving forward when life doesn’t go as planned.You’ll learn:How to start over when you feel completely stuckStrategies for dating after heartbreak, loss, or divorceHow to set boundaries without guilt or fearFinding patience and peace while working toward your wellness and personal growth goalsTips for gaining clarity and direction in your careerIf you’ve ever wanted real, honest life coaching advice, this episode is for you.Connect with Tara Resnick:Instagram: @tararesnickTikTok: @tara_resnickWebsite: https://tararesnick.com/

Trigger Warning: This episode mentions pregnancy and fertility journeys. Please take care if this is a tender topic for you.In this episode of This Wasn’t the Plan, I sit down with coach, entrepreneur, and podcast host Katie Bryan to explore rebuilding life after divorce. Katie shares her journey from heartbreak to solo motherhood, entrepreneurship, and empowering women to know their worth.You’ll learn:How to navigate divorce and rediscover yourselfKey moments that led to solo motherhood by choiceHow to build and scale a business from scratchHow to cultivate confidence, self-worth, and success on your own termsThis episode is for women starting over, trusting their path, and turning detours into extraordinary opportunities.Connect with Tara Resnick:Instagram: @tararesnickTikTok: @tararesnick1Website: https://tararesnick.com/Connect with Katie Bryan:Instagram: @single_greatest_choicePodcast: The Single Greatest ChoiceWebsite: https://www.singlegreatestchoice.com/

Whether you’re single, dating, or in a long-term relationship, building deep connection takes intention and self-awareness. In this episode of This Wasn’t the Plan, I sit down with dating, marriage, and intimacy facilitator Laira Thomas to explore how to communicate effectively, navigate distance, and bring intimacy back into your relationships.You’ll learn:How to deepen connection with partners, friends, and yourselfStrategies to rebuild trust and intimacyWhen it’s time to start a new chapterWhy healing and self-love are the foundation for all relationshipsWalk away with practical tools and fresh perspectives to create meaningful, lasting connections.Connect with Tara Resnick:Instagram: @tararesnickTikTok: @tara_resnickWebsite: https://tararesnick.com/Connect with Laira Thomas:Instagram: @lairathomasWebsite: https://lairathomas.com/

When life doesn’t go according to plan, how do you pivot without losing yourself? In this episode of This Wasn’t the Plan, I sit down with Licensed Professional Counselor, bestselling author, and TEDx speaker Justine Froelker to explore courage, resilience, and reinvention during life’s toughest moments.You’ll learn:How to pivot when your identity feels shakenWhy courage is a choice, not a feelingStrategies to rebuild after setbacksHow to move through grief, uncertainty, and Plan B momentsDaily practices that make resilience possibleThis episode is for anyone navigating big transitions—career changes, relationship shifts, infertility, loss, or starting over in unexpected chapters. Walk away with practical tools, hope, and direction to create a life that feels like yours again.Connect with Justine Froelker:Instagram: @justinefroelkerWebsite: www.justinefroelker.comConnect with Tara Resnick:Instagram: @tararesnick1TikTok: @tara_resnickWebsite: www.tararesnick.com

⚠️ Trigger Warning: This episode includes conversations about alcohol use, mental health challenges, and suicidality. Please take care while listening. If in crisis, call or text 988 (US/Canada) or visit findahelpline.com (international).Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or struggling with recovery? In this episode of This Wasn’t the Plan, I sit down down with Kinga Jakab, Recovery Coach and advocate for women’s empowerment, to explore how to reclaim your life and build a fulfilling Plan B. Kinga shares her journey with substances, perfectionism, and hitting rock bottom, and reveals the mindset shifts, self-love practices, and strategies that transformed her pain into purpose.You’ll learn:Why recovery is about coming home to yourself, not just quitting substancesHow to release perfection and embrace authenticityHow to turn rock bottom into a starting point for growthPractical steps for self-discovery, healing, and life reinventionConnect with Tara Resnick:Instagram: @tararesnickTikTok: tara_resnickWebsite: www.tararesnick.comConnect with Kinga Jakab:Instagram: @recoveringfromevertyhing_kingaPodcast: Recovering from EverythingWebsite: www.recoveringfromeverything.com