Fearlessly Authentic

In this powerful and deeply honest episode, Jodi sits down with bestselling author, mental health advocate, and Gen Z voice Carrie Berk to talk about her new memoir Mindfire: Diary of an Anxious Twentysomething. Carrie opens up about turning her raw journal entries into a published book, navigating OCD and anxiety in her early twenties, and how vulnerability became her greatest source of strength.   Together, they explore what it means to be fearlessly authentic in a world that tells you to hide your pain, and why being open about mental health is more important now than ever.   ✨ You’ll hear: • Why journaling helped Carrie process trauma and grief • The real-life inspiration behind Mindfire • Advice for young adults facing anxiety, heartbreak, and identity crises • How Carrie built confidence through storytelling • A lightning-fast round of Fearlessly Fast questions you won’t want to miss!   🎧 Listen now and get inspired to embrace your story—messy, magical, and all.       📘 Grab your copy of Mindfire: Diary of an Anxious Twentysomething here: 👉 Buy on Amazon 👉 Buy from Bookshop.org       📲 Connect with Carrie Berk:   Instagram TikTok Website

Today’s guest is Bela Gandhi—the fabulous founder of Smart Dating Academy. Bella is one of the country’s most sought-after dating and relationship experts. She’s been featured on Good Morning America, The Today Show, and more, helping people find love with confidence, clarity, and what she calls “psychotic optimism.” She’s been on the show before, and I couldn’t wait to have her back, especially now that spring is in the air and people are ready to get out there and start dating again.   You can find Bela and learn how you can date smarter and fall in love   Bela Gandhi - Dating Coach (@smartdatingacademy) • Instagram photos and videos instagram.com

This week on Fearlessly Authentic, I sit down with the bold and brilliant Pattie Ehsaei—also known as The Duchess of Decorum—to talk about her highly anticipated book Never Date a Broke Dude: The Financial Freedom Playbook (out May 6, 2025). In this candid conversation, we unpack what it really means to date a “broke dude”—and spoiler: it’s about way more than money.   We get into financial red flags, the importance of setting boundaries, and why financial independence is the ultimate act of self-worth. Pattie brings her signature no-BS approach, sharing personal stories and practical tools to help women stop confusing struggle with love—and start making smarter decisions in life, love, and money.   About Pattie Ehsaei: Known as “The Duchess of Decorum” by her 1M TikTok followers, Pattie Ehsaei is one of today’s leading financial experts. Her viral content on financial literacy, workplace decorum, and female empowerment has earned over 8.1 million likes. With sharp, honest advice on everything from asking for a raise to maintaining independence in relationships, she’s become a go-to voice for women seeking financial and personal power.   Born in Iran and raised in Los Angeles, Pattie brings over 20 years of experience in finance—ranging from private equity to mergers and acquisitions. A lawyer by trade and currently Director of M&A Financing at a major national bank, she’s also a sought-after speaker and contributor to platforms like Forbes.com and MSNBC.   In her debut book, Never Date a Broke Dude, Pattie redefines the term “broke” to describe anyone lacking ambition, drive, commitment, or work ethic—regardless of income. The book is packed with real-world examples and actionable advice for building financial freedom and confidence in both your bank account and your relationships.   The book is divided into four parts: • Money – Learn to implement a five-account system to manage cash flow, eliminate debt, repair credit, and invest with as little as $100 • Work – Guidance on dressing professionally, building confidence, retirement planning, and salary negotiations • Power (Self-Worth) – Set boundaries, understand prenuptial agreements, and protect yourself from financial abuse   Available for pre-order in hardcover and audiobook formats on Amazon and Audible. For updates and exclusive content, follow Pattie on Instagram.   If you’re ready to take control of your finances and your future, Never Date a Broke Dude is your ultimate guide.   ✅Follow Pattie on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/duchessofdecorum?igsh=a2p5eDlvOWI5MzVr and TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@duchessofdecorum?_t=ZT-8vyjZm3xue2&_r=1   ✅Pre-order her book here: https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/pattie-ehsaei/never-date-a-broke-dude/9780306836190/?lens=grand-central-publishing&utm_source=TikTok&utm_medium=Digital&utm_campaign=Ehsaei_NeverDateaBrokeDude_Branding_Traffic_GRANDCENTRALPUBLISHING_9780306836190&utm_content=PersonalFinance&utm_term=Author_NA_Author_1_AuthorSocial

In this powerful and deeply personal episode, I sit down with Emmy Award–winning host, actress, and producer Nikki Boyer — the best friend and executive producer behind the hit Wondery podcast Dying for Sex, now adapted into a scripted limited series on FX, streaming on Hulu. The series stars Academy Award–winning actress Michelle Williams, who first rose to fame on Dawson’s Creek and went on to star in films like Brokeback Mountain and The Fabelmans, as Molly Kochan. Nikki is portrayed by the brilliant Jenny Slate (Obvious Child, Everything Everywhere All at Once), and Sissy Spacek, who won an Academy Award for her role in Coal Miner’s Daughter, plays Molly’s mother, Gail. Nikki shares the real story behind how Dying for Sex came to life, what it was like helping her best friend Molly reclaim her joy, her sexuality, and her voice while navigating a terminal cancer diagnosis, and why she was determined to bring Molly’s story to an even wider audience through this beautiful, bold television adaptation. We dive deep into friendship, grief, healing, laughter, and legacy — and how Dying for Sex continues to teach the world about living fearlessly, loving boldly, and embracing life even through its most heartbreaking moments. Whether you’ve experienced loss, walked beside a loved one through hardship, or simply want to be inspired by the power of authentic connection, this conversation will stay with you long after it’s over.

In this powerful episode of Fearlessly Authentic, Jodi sits down with Brandon Ord, the creator behind @brandonclearminds, whose viral content on narcissistic abuse and healing has struck a chord with millions. Brandon opens up about how his own experience shaped his mission, and together they dive into: • What narcissism really is—and how to spot it • The difference between overt and covert narcissists • The manipulative tactics narcissists use to keep control, including feigning illness • Why it’s so hard to leave—and how to do it without guilt • The red flags to look for in dating • And the green flags that tell you you’re finally in a safe relationship   If you’ve ever questioned your reality in a relationship, felt guilt for walking away, or needed validation for what you’ve experienced—this episode is for you. Brandon’s insights will leave you feeling seen, empowered, and more equipped to reclaim your peace.

In this episode of Fearlessly Authentic, I share why being intentional with your goals is the secret to real results. Your eating, training, and daily activity must work in harmony—not in conflict. If you’re training to build muscle but eating like you’re trying to lose weight, you’re sending mixed signals to your body. I explain how to align your food, movement, and mindset so they support one another and work with your goals—not against them. It’s time to get focused, get clear, and be intentional every step of the way.   Learn more or work with Jodi: www.jodiharrisonbauer.com Follow Jodi on Instagram: @jodiharrisonbauer Follow Jodi on TikTok: @jodiharrisonbauer

Why do we fall so hard, so fast—and then sometimes fall right out of love just as easily? In this episode of Fearlessly Authentic, host Jodi Harrison-Bauer explores what it really means to fall in love. Is it chemistry, timing, ego… or something deeper?   Drawing from personal reflections and observations (yes, even from dating shows like Love Is Blind and The Bachelor), Jodi unpacks the psychology and emotion behind romantic attraction, why we choose the people we do, and whether love is a state of mind—or a conscious choice.   Whether you’re in love, out of love, or somewhere in between, this conversation will get you thinking. Tune in to reflect, feel, and maybe even redefine what love means to you.   If you’ve ever questioned love—this one’s for you.   Listen now on your favorite podcast platform.   Connect with me: www.jodiharrisonbauer.com Find me on all social platforms @jodiharrisonbauer

After hosting Fearlessly Authentic for five years, I wanted to take a moment to reintroduce myself to you. Through the highs and lows, I’ve always kept it real—sharing my journey to help you grow into the person you want to be and live the life you deserve. For years, I let the opinions and judgments of others hold me back from truly being myself. But after my divorce at 42, I stepped fully into my truth—and I haven’t stopped since. All I’ve ever wanted was to be Just Jodi. So here I am, sharing my story, my truth, and my heart with you. I hope you enjoy this episode! Don’t forget to rate, review, and subscribe. XO Visit me over at my website to see how we can work together!

In this episode of Fearlessly Authentic, I sit down with hormone expert ( he is also my doctor) Dr. Marko Lujic to discuss everything you need to know about hormone replacement therapy (HRT)—when to start, what it’s all about, and the myths that need to be debunked. We dive deep into why proper nutrition and exercise are essential for managing hormonal changes and how building muscle is the real secret to longevity. Think you’re too old to start HRT? Think again! If you’re postmenopausal and believe it’s too late to benefit from hormone therapy, that’s another myth we break down in this episode. Whether you’re navigating perimenopause, menopause, or wondering if you can still optimize your health later in life, this conversation will give you the science-backed insights you need to take control of your well-being. Tune in to learn how to feel your best at any age, build strength, and make informed decisions about HRT.     Dr. Marko Lujic Bio: Dr. Marko Lujic is a renowned hormone expert and longevity specialist dedicated to helping individuals optimize their health through personalized hormone therapy, nutrition, and fitness strategies. With extensive experience in hormonal health, anti-aging medicine, and functional wellness, Dr. Lujic has guided countless patients in navigating perimenopause, menopause, and other hormonal imbalances. His approach focuses on evidence-based treatments, proper lifestyle modifications, and a deep understanding of how hormones impact overall well-being. Dr. Lujic is passionate about debunking myths around HRT and empowering people with the knowledge they need to make informed health decisions. His work emphasizes that hormonal health isn’t just about replacing what’s lost—it’s about optimizing your body for strength, vitality, and longevity.

What does it really mean to live fearlessly authentic? For me, it meant making the difficult but necessary decision to leave a relationship that no longer served me—because staying meant shrinking, and I refuse to live small.   In this episode, I share my personal journey of stepping into my truth, choosing myself, and embracing the incredible freedom that comes with living alone. I spent years fitting into what others needed me to be, but now, I’m fully living on my own terms—and it’s empowering as hell.   I’ll also break down why so many women feel liberated living alone and how it’s not about loneliness, but about reclaiming your space, energy, and happiness. It’s also about enjoying being alone, but not lonely. In the wrong relationship, you can feel very lonely without being alone.    Why is living alone so empowering? -Total independence- no compromising on your time, space, or decisions. - Emotional freedom- no more walking on eggshells or managing someone else's needs over your own. - Stronger self-connection- learning who you are, what you love, and what fuels you. Deeper friendships- because you choose who you want in your life. Full control over your environment -your home, your vibe, your rules. Peace-because sometimes, solitude is the greatest luxury.   If you’ve ever felt like you had to dim your light to fit someone else’s life, this episode is for you. Let’s talk about why choosing yourself is the boldest and most beautiful thing you can do.   Tune in and step into your power with me.

This week on Fearlessly Authentic, I sit down with Zora Benhamou, gerontologist, biohacker, and host of the Hack My Age podcast. Zora takes a fascinating approach to aging and energy optimization, blending ancient practices with modern biohacking techniques to help women feel vibrant and energized through menopause and beyond.   We uncover what biohacking really means, why energy management is essential as we age, and how practices like breathwork and nutrition can make a measurable difference. Zora also shares her favorite tools, habits, and insights into how women can work with their bodies—not against them—during life’s transitions.   If you’re curious about biohacking or want to learn new ways to support your energy and longevity, this episode will give you plenty of fresh ideas to explore.

In this empowering episode of Fearlessly Authentic, I share my journey of leaving my marriage and filing for divorce at 64. While this wasn’t the life I envisioned, I knew I needed to be brave, trust my gut, and make a change to reclaim my happiness and live authentically. I’ll take you through the process of choosing myself—listening to my intuition, staying grounded with the help of a great support system, and discovering that I’m stronger than I ever thought. This episode is a reminder that it’s the struggles that bring us strength and that it’s never too late to find happiness and peace. It’s also about showing you that you’re stronger than you think. Let your inner voice guide you because it always knows the truth. Be brave, be vulnerable, and allow yourself to be guided toward the life you deserve.

This week on Fearlessly Authentic, I sit down with Zora Benhamou, gerontologist, biohacker, and host of the Hack My Age podcast. Zora takes a fascinating approach to aging and energy optimization, blending ancient practices with modern biohacking techniques to help women feel vibrant and energized through menopause and beyond.   We uncover what biohacking really means, why energy management is essential as we age, and how practices like breathwork and nutrition can make a measurable difference. Zora also shares her favorite tools, habits, and insights into how women can work with their bodies—not against them—during life’s transitions.   If you’re curious about biohacking or want to learn new ways to support your energy and longevity, this episode will give you plenty of fresh ideas to explore.

This year has been one of the most challenging and transformative of my life. In this episode, I’m opening up about the lessons I’ve learned—from finding the courage to walk away from what no longer serves me, to embracing change as a teacher instead of an enemy, to discovering the true meaning of self-worth. I’ll share how trusting my gut, prioritizing my own happiness, and leaning into discomfort have shaped the way I live, love, and lead. My hope is that these lessons inspire you to reflect on your own year, take bold steps toward the life you deserve, and step into the new year feeling more authentically yourself than ever before.

In this deeply personal and empowering episode of Fearlessly Authentic, I’m sharing my journey over the past three months—a transformative period where I prioritized my mental well-being and made the courageous decision to redefine my life. For the first time in years, I chose to put myself first, stepping away from a situation that no longer served me to find peace, clarity, and the life I truly want to live. I open up about the fear, self-doubt, and challenges I faced in making this life-altering decision, especially at this stage of my life, and the powerful lessons I’ve learned along the way. This episode isn’t about blame or regret—it’s about self-awareness, empowerment, and the courage to take control of your happiness. If you’ve ever felt stuck or afraid to make a big change, this conversation is for you. I want you to know that it’s never too late to rewrite your story. The power to change your life is within you, and while the journey might be scary, the peace and fulfillment on the other side make it all worth it. Tune in for a raw, honest, and hopeful discussion about choosing yourself, finding your peace, and living authentically—no matter where you are in life.

Today’s episode is packed with wisdom, inspiration, and tools to help you elevate every aspect of your life. Joining me is Lisa Conners, a powerhouse keynote speaker, executive coach, and the founder of Ever Better® Speaking and Coaching. Through her Generative Powers™ program, Lisa empowers individuals and teams to unlock their full potential, blending years of leadership experience with transformative tools like Everything DiSC and Five Behaviors of a Cohesive Team. Lisa’s career journey is as diverse as it is inspiring—spanning finance, insurance, non-profits, and even running a 24,000-square-foot children’s play facility! She’s also deeply committed to continuous growth, holding an MBA, certifications in executive coaching, and affiliations with organizations like the National Speakers Association and Citrine Angels, where she champions women-led businesses. When she’s not helping others, Lisa’s passions include golf, pickleball, Pilates, painting furniture yellow, and spending time with loved ones. Get ready to learn from this dynamic, fearless leader as we dive into her story and how she helps others live their best lives.

In this episode of Fearlessly Authentic, I’m joined by the incredible Carmin Black, a social entrepreneur whose vibrant energy and passion for combining fashion with philanthropy are unmatched. Carmin shares her journey of using business as a force for good, from working with global artisans in Haiti and India to creating products that are sold by retailers like Nordstrom and Whole Foods—all while giving back to the world’s most vulnerable communities. We also dive into her latest ventures: the launch of her new beauty brand, HAIR DEUX, and a stunning handbag collection with Magnolia arriving in Spring. Carmin’s story will inspire you to think differently about how business can make a difference while staying sustainable and empowering. Join us for an inspiring conversation about entrepreneurship, impact, and living a life filled with purpose! Hashtags: #FearlesslyAuthentic #CarminBlack #SocialEntrepreneur #WomenInBusiness #Philanthropy #SustainableFashion #HAIRDEUX #Entrepreneurship #FashionForGood #GivingBack #EmpoweredWomen #BusinessWithPurpose

In this episode, I am joined by Dr. Jaime Schehr, a Naturopathic Physician, Registered Dietitian, and Certified Dietitian Nutritionist, to explore the powerful intersection of integrative nutrition and functional medicine. With over two decades of experience, Dr. Schehr brings valuable insights into how nutrition, lifestyle, and personalized care can transform our health. We’ll dive into her approach to managing thyroid health, diabetes, and other chronic conditions, and discuss how the principles of naturopathy can support lasting well-being. Whether you’re curious about holistic health or looking to improve your diet with science-backed insights, this conversation with Dr. Schehr will give you practical steps to start your journey toward better health. Key Topics Covered: • Understanding integrative nutrition and its role in modern healthcare • The importance of personalized approaches to health and wellness • Managing thyroid disease and diabetes through functional medicine • How to align nutrition with lifestyle for optimal health • Tips for making sustainable changes to your diet and wellness routines

In today’s episode, I share my personal perspective on how menopause impacts marriage and relationships, reflecting on my own experiences and the facts I’ve learned along the way. I open up about what I wish I’d known when I was going through menopause privately, how it affected my marriage and other relationships, and the lessons that emerged from it. From the emotional shifts and physical changes to the challenges in intimacy and communication, this episode offers practical advice and insights for embracing this life stage with confidence and connection. Whether you’re experiencing menopause or supporting a partner, join me as we uncover ways to navigate this journey together. #menopause #marriage #changes #midlifechanges #perimenopause #intimacy #postmenopause #intimaterelationships #menopausesymptoms

In this episode of Fearlessly Authentic, I’m taking the time to unpack my own journey of self-care, courage, and transformation. People often tell me that my choices are brave, but for me, they’ve been essential steps to protect myself, reconnect with my self-worth, and learn to love myself again. I’ll be sharing some of the pivotal moments that led me to make tough decisions about my relationships and life, and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. Together, we’ll dive into how building a foundation of self-respect, discipline, and intentional self-care helped me reclaim my strength and embrace my authentic self. If you’re at a crossroads or looking for inspiration to start putting yourself first, I’ll be offering takeaways and reflective questions to help you honor your needs, set boundaries, and surround yourself with the right support. It’s time to unpack what self-love truly means—and why choosing yourself is one of the bravest choices you can make.