Life Notes

This episode is a soft landing. I just got back and am reflecting on my annual solo desert trip. It's something I started during a really hard season of my life that has now become a ritual I return to every year. Not to escape, but to reconnect. The desert, for me, is one of those places where everything quiets enough that I can actually hear myself again. Where my body settles and I remember who I am. I talk about creating new meaning from something old, what it felt like to give a meaningful piece of my past a new life, and how that first trip shaped the intention I now carry into it every spring. But this episode isn’t really just about the desert. It’s about finding your places, your rituals, your moments  and the things that bring you back to yourself. The things that calm your nervous system, ground you, and remind you what it feels like to be home in your own body. Because we all need those things.  Key themes: Creating new meaning from past experiences Solitude and what it actually gives you Finding your personal “medicine” What calms your nervous system Small rituals that bring you back to yourself Why having something to return to matters   Sponsored by: This episode is supported by my integrative counseling and coaching practice. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, disconnected from yourself, or like you’re trying to sort through something in your life, this is the kind of work I do with clients. My approach is very personalized and integrative. We look at your life as a whole. Your emotions, your relationships, your habits, your patterns, your health....and we work through what’s actually going on underneath it all. It’s a space where you can talk things out, process honestly, and come back to yourself. Connect: You can follow me on my Instagram @iammeganmarieee For more writing and my Sunday Newsletter join my Substack Life Notes on Instagram My Intimate Product Line

In this episode, I talk about the quiet courage it takes to actually live the life you want. We like to believe that we make decisions for ourselves, that we follow our instincts and choose the paths that feel right. But when we look closer, many of us are making decisions based on expectations, pressure, or what makes the people around us more comfortable. I reflect on how often we choose careers, relationships, or lifestyles because they seem like the “right” thing to do rather than what we truly want. And how much courage it takes to stop, look closely at your life, and ask if the path you’re on is really yours. This episode is about that moment of honesty. The moment when you notice where you’re not choosing yourself, and the bravery it takes to change direction once you see it.   In this episode, I talk about: • Why many of the biggest life decisions we make aren’t actually chosen for ourselves • How expectations from family, society, and culture quietly shape our lives • Why looking honestly at your life can feel scary but is incredibly powerful • How advice and wisdom from others should be used as clues, not absolute answers • The importance of learning to listen to your own intuition when making life decisions • Why living a life that truly fits you benefits not just you, but everyone around you Sponsored by: 1:1 Integrative Counseling with Megan If this episode brings up questions about your own life path or decisions you’re facing, this is exactly the kind of work I help people explore in my counseling practice. My approach is integrative and deeply personalized. We focus on what is actually happening in your life right now. Together we create space to think clearly, process emotions, and understand what you really want moving forward. Many people find it incredibly helpful to have a neutral and supportive person to talk to who isn’t part of their everyday life. Someone who can help you look closely at what’s going on and help you find clarity in the middle of complicated decisions. I’ve recently opened a few new spots for clients, and for new clients only I’m offering $100 off your first two sessions so you can try it out and see if we’re a good fit. If you’re interested, reach out and let me know when you book that you heard about the offer through the podcast.

In this episode, I talk about one of the hardest questions we can face in our lives: how do you know when a relationship isn’t the right one for you anymore? These are some of the hardest, but also most important decisions we make. It's about choosing ourselves, following our hearts, and doing hard things even when they are right. I explore the difference between deciding if a relationship is right versus deciding when to leave, and why making that choice often comes from looking deeply at yourself. I share thoughts on how to process big relationship decisions, how to listen to your intuition, and why imagination can be such a powerful tool when you're trying to understand your future. We also talk about the importance of noticing when you’re losing pieces of yourself in a relationship and how your body and health can sometimes reveal truths your mind hasn’t fully admitted yet. This episode isn’t so much about breakups or judging relationships. It’s about curiosity, courage, and giving yourself permission to look closely at your life so you can choose what is truly best for you.   In this episode, I talk about: • Why deciding if a relationship is right is different from deciding when to leave • Ways to process difficult relationship decisions • Why bringing friends and family into relationship struggles can sometimes complicate clarity • How sacrificing parts of yourself can be an important sign to pay attention to • The ways emotional stress in relationships can show up physically in your health • Using imagination to explore your future and understand what your life could look like • How imagining both staying and leaving can reveal important emotional signals • Why both staying and leaving require courage and deep self-honesty Sponsored by: Integrative Counseling with Megan If this episode resonates with you and you’re navigating a big relationship decision, you don’t have to figure it all out alone. In my integrative counseling practice, I work with people who are processing relationship questions, life transitions, identity shifts, intimacy struggles, and the complicated emotions that come with them. Together we slow things down, untangle what you’re feeling, and create space for you to understand your own truth more clearly. Sometimes the hardest part of a decision isn’t the decision itself, but it’s having a safe place to talk through everything honestly. If you’re wanting that kind of support, you can reach out through my website or social channels to learn more about working together. Connect: You can follow me on my Instagram @iammeganmarieee For more writing and my Sunday Newsletter join my Substack Life Notes on Instagram My Intimate Product Line

In this episode, I reflect back on my 8 week solo trip to Europe and how travel can teach us about ourselves. Why it felt less like a vacation and more like necessary medicine for my life. How traveling alone helped me reconnect with parts of myself I felt disconnected from. I share how solo travel can be a fast track for self-discovery, self-respect, and actually doing the things you say you want to do “someday.”   In this episode: Why my two-month Europe trip felt essential for my growth, not like running away The difference between enjoying alone time and traveling solo How traveling alone creates space to hear your intuition again The confidence that comes from doing the things you’ve always dreamed of Why your trip doesn’t have to be extreme, long, or far away to change you What to consider emotionally if you’re afraid of loneliness or feeling untethered Sponsored by Integrative Counseling + Coaching If this episode makes you feel that pull toward something bigger and bold, a trip, a reset, a new chapter, or simply wanting to feel more connected to yourself. I’d love to support you inside my counseling and coaching work. In my integrative approach, we work on: Rebuilding trust in yourself and your intuition Understanding what your life is asking you to pay attention to Creating space for self-discovery, clarity, and emotional regulation Navigating transitions, restlessness, or the feeling of being “lost” Exploring desire- travel desire, relational desire, sexual desire, life desire—and what it’s pointing you toward This work is deeply personal, grounding, and centered on what you want next in your life. If you’re craving support, guidance, or a space to finally talk through what you’re feeling, you can reach out through my website, Instagram, or Substack to learn more about sessions. Connect: You can follow me on my Instagram @iammeganmarieee For more writing and my Sunday Newsletter join my Substack Life Notes on Instagram My Intimate Product Line

In this episode, I’m answering a listener question: How do you tell the difference between sex that’s coming from true generosity and sex that’s actually coming from feelings of obligation, people-pleasing, or self-abandonment? I talk about why it’s normal to question this (especially in long-term relationships), and why the first step is to have grace for yourself. Then you can begin noticing where you’re not being completely honest with yourself. I also discuss how stress, resentment, emotional disconnection, and unspoken needs can quietly show up as “low desire” or obligation sex, when the deeper story is that something inside you needs to be heard. We get into how to check in with your body, what to ask yourself, and how to start gentle, real conversations with your partner. This is a reminder that you and your sexuality are allowed to evolve and you don’t need to shame yourself for where you’ve been. In this episode: The difference between generosity and obligation in your sex life How to notice when you’re saying “yes” while your body is saying “I’m not sure” Why changing your mind about what you like (or don’t like) isn't a problem How emotional stress, feeling unseen, or over-responsible can look like low desire Ways to start an honest conversation with your partner about what you actually want Why “we’re sexually incompatible” is sometimes really a communication and self-trust issue Sponsored by: If this episode touches something tender for you....maybe you’re realizing you’ve been saying yes when you didn’t fully want to or you feel stuck in obligation and don’t know how to talk about it...I’d love to support you more deeply. In my integrative counseling + coaching, we can: Map out your desires, limits, and curiosities in a way that feels safe Untangle obligation from generosity so you can choose from self-respect, not pressure Decide how you can have this conversation with your partner Explore how stress, health, history, and self-esteem are affecting your intimate life If you’re interested in working together, you can reach out through email or Instagram and we’ll figure out what kind of support and session structure feels right for you. Connect: You can follow me on my Instagram @iammeganmarieee For more writing and my Sunday Newsletter join my Substack Life Notes on Instagram My Intimate Product Line   → Submit your question for a future episode via Instagram @iammeganmarieee …just DM me

In this episode, I'm walking through what my health routine actually looks like right now. I share a bit of my backstory and health history from growing up around home-cooked food, later dealing with psoriasis, thyroid cancer, and other health issues.  I talk about: How I structure sleep and slow mornings to support my nervous system The kinds of movement I focus on ( How I actually eat day-to-day The handful of supplements I consistently come back to My evening rituals that help me unwind and sleep deeply If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by wellness advice and craving something simpler and more sustainable, this one’s for you.   Sponsorship If this episode has you thinking about your own health routines and how they connect to the rest of your life, your energy, mood, relationships, and intimacy, that’s exactly the kind of work I do in my counseling practice. I offer integrative counseling that weaves together mental and emotional health, nervous system support, sexuality, relationships, and nutrition. Sometimes we’re talking about communication and shame. Sometimes we’re gently untangling stress, burnout, and body image. And sometimes we’re looking at very practical things like sleep, food, and routines so you actually feel supported in your everyday life. If you’re wanting a grounded, non-judgmental space to figure some of this out with someone who understands both the emotional and physical sides of health, you can learn more about working with me through the links in the show notes or by reaching out directly. I’d love to explore whether we’re a good fit. Connect: You can follow me on my Instagram @iammeganmarieee For more writing and my Sunday Newsletter join my Substack Life Notes on Instagram My Intimate Product Line  

In this episode, I’m talking about vision, self-trust, and what it  means to keep going when you’re the only one who can see where you’re headed. The heart of the episode is this idea that when you’re building something new (a business, a body of work, a creative project, a different version of your life), there might not be anyone else who fully gets it. I share why you have to be the first one to believe in your vision, and how to show your vision love the same way you would a person, a relationship, or a plant you want to see thrive. We talk about living as if your vision is already true, making small daily progress that add up, and learning to love solitude so your ideas have space to grow. If you’ve been feeling a little lonely in your work, misunderstood by people around you, or unsure if what you’re doing even matters, this one is for you. What you’ll hear in this episode: My messy content-brainstorming process (and why “don’t hesitate, create” is kind of my motto) Seasonal mood decline and how I lean in  How analog hobbies help me stay grounded while I’m building big things How your vision often won’t make sense to anyone else at the beginning and why that’s actually a good sign What it means to live your vision  The power of small, visual daily progress and how it keeps you motivated Learning to love solitude when so much of your creative work happens alone Keeping your ideas close to your heart and protecting early-stage visions from unnecessary criticism The thing I wish someone had told me in high school about trusting my own ideas Sponsored by Common Confidential: This episode is sponsored by Common Confidential, my analog intimacy brand designed to help you create more intentional connected moments with the person you love. If you’re planning for Valentine’s Day (or honestly just want to make a regular night feel special),  build an evening that actually feels good to be in. Our bestselling Massage Butter is organic, oil-based, edible, full-body safe, fragrance free, and comes in a luxurious glass jar that makes slowing down and connecting feel natural. Plan your night around presence: music, soft lighting, chocolate, maybe champagne, and a massage that says, “I choose us on purpose.” You can find all of your evening essentials at commonconfidential.com and use the code CUPID for 15% off your order. Connect: You can follow me on my Instagram @iammeganmarieee For more writing and my Sunday Newsletter join my Substack Life Notes on Instagram My Intimate Product Line

In this episode of Life Notes, I share a little of deeply personal changes happening for me and why I’m feeling proud, emotional, and really aware of how far things have come. From there, we move into a theme that’s been circling my mind a lot lately: curiosity. I talk about curiosity not just as a cute, childlike trait, but as one of the most powerful tools we have as adults—for self-growth, relationships, conflict, and emotional resilience. We explore how curiosity helps you become less judgmental, more open-minded, and more tolerant, and how it can soften defensiveness in hard conversations. I also share practical ways to practice curiosity—on your own, with strangers, with kids, and especially with your partner when conflict comes up. If you’ve been wanting to react less, understand more, and navigate hard things with a little more grace and softness, this episode will give you a lens to do that.   What you’ll learn in this episode: Why curiosity is more than a personality trait—and how it can be a core tool for growth How curiosity weaves into open-mindedness, tolerance, and being less judgmental Ways to bring curiosity into your relationship, especially during conflict How asking better questions can lead to deeper intimacy and clearer decisions Simple practices to build your “curiosity muscle” in everyday life Why you don’t have to be perfectly curious—you just have to be willing to practice   Sponsored by Common Confidential This episode is sponsored by Common Confidential. Curiosity can also be about what actually feels good in your body. Curiosity about your partner beyond routine. Curiosity about what intimacy could look like if it felt less performative and more honest. Our organic Massage Butter, part of our intimate essentials collection are designed to invite you into slower, more present moments—where you can ask, What do I want? What do we want? What feels good right now? If you want tactile, analog tools to explore your connection with more softness and curiosity, you can find them at commonconfidential.com.   Connect: You can follow me on my Instagram @iammeganmarieee For more writing and my Sunday Newsletter join my Substack Life Notes on Instagram My Intimate Product Line

In this episode of Life Notes, I talk about how analog has been showing up as a theme in everything right now, even in how I thinking about relationships and intimacy. This isn’t about going off the grid (not that I'm opposed), or buying record players, or rejecting modern life, it’s about choosing a different way of existing. I explore analog not just as a nostalgic aesthetic, but as a frequency…a way of being that’s slower, more intentional, and peaceful. You'll hear about how the idea of analog has been inspiring my work and why I believe analog living is one of the most underrated tools for nervous system regulation.  If you’re craving more stillness, clarity, and simplicity this year, this episode is for you.   What you’ll learn in this episode: Why analog isn’t just the products we buy, it’s a frequency How to make small lifestyle shifts to feel more connected The link between analog living and nervous system health How I created an analog intimacy brand in a digital world A sensory-based practice to return to the present moment Sponsored by Common Confidential This episode is sponsored by Common Confidential — a brand I built for analog intimacy in a digital world. Our organic massage butter and intimate lifestyle products are designed to help you slow down and reconnect. Think of them as tools for presence, not performance. Explore all products at commonconfidential.com   This episode is supported by my integrative coaching work. If you’re standing at a crossroads—considering a hard choice, navigating change, or trying to trust yourself through uncertainty—you don’t have to do it alone. Having an unbiased, grounded person to help you process, reflect, and move forward can make all the difference. Learn more about coaching or reach out directly with your questions.  Connect: You can follow me on my Instagram @iammeganmarieee For more writing and my Sunday Newsletter join my Substack Life Notes on Instagram My Intimate Product Line

Lately, I’ve been in a reflective season—quiet mornings, clarity work, shedding what no longer fits, and asking myself some honest questions about where I’m headed next. In this episode, I explore a theme that keeps coming up for me again and again: choosing hard things. Not the kind of hard that causes harm or keeps us stuck, but the kind that asks us to be intentional. The kind that leads to growth, integrity, and a deeper understanding of ourselves and how we relate to the people around us. I talk about the difference between staying where it’s easy versus choosing a path that stretches you. How comfort can slowly numb us to possibility. How many of us stay in jobs, relationships, or versions of ourselves simply because leaving feels overwhelming, even when we know there’s more waiting for us. This episode is about dreams, risk, and determination. About the courage it takes to choose discomfort in service of a life that feels aligned, meaningful, and alive. And about trusting that the hardest paths often lead to the most beautiful places. Even when we can’t fully see what’s on the other side yet. If you’ve been feeling stuck, restless, or quietly aware that there’s a different version of your life calling you forward, this episode is for you.   What You’ll Learn: Why the “easy path” often keeps us stuck How choosing hard things builds resilience, clarity, and self-trust The difference between enduring hardship and intentionally choosing growth Why dreams are signals, not accidents How to approach difficult seasons with purpose instead of avoidance Sponsor & Support: This episode is supported by my integrative coaching work. If you’re standing at a crossroads—considering a hard choice, navigating change, or trying to trust yourself through uncertainty—you don’t have to do it alone. Having an unbiased, grounded person to help you process, reflect, and move forward can make all the difference. Learn more about coaching or reach out directly with your questions.  Connect: You can follow me on my Instagram @iammeganmarieee For more writing and thoughts you can also follow my Substack Life Notes on Instagram My Intimate Product Line

In this episode, I’m answering two of the most common questions I get asked—what is sex, does it always have to be penetrative, and how to navigate a relationship where sex drives are different. These questions come up all the time, and they often point to deeper themes: how we define pleasure, how our early sex education shaped our beliefs, and what it really means to build a happy sex life that fits you. I share my thoughts on expanding our definition of sex beyond penetration, navigating differences in desire with care, and why communication, creativity, and compassion are essential when you’re trying to stay connected in this part of your relationship. Whether you’re the one with the higher or lower drive, this is a conversation about what it means to desire, and to stay curious about your partner, and yourself.   Themes & Takeaways: Does sex always have to mean penetration? Why different sex drives are normal, not a red flag How to talk about desire with understanding instead of shame or blame Discovering creative ways to be intimate Redefining sex for you   Sponsored by: This episode is brought to you by Common Confidential, my line of intimate essentials designed to make connection feel good again. Because great sex is about presence. Whether you’re navigating desire differences or just want to make intimacy feel a little easier, our Massage Butter, Intimate Blanket and Love Towels are perfect for softening the moment and turning it into something more. Shop the full collection at commonconfidential.com.   Follow: You can follow me on my Instagram @iammeganmarieee For more writing and thoughts you can also follow my Substack Life Notes on Instagram

We're officially in 2026, and in this episode, I’m answering a vulnerable questions I received from a listener. “I read my wife’s journal and found out she only has sex with me because she thinks I need it, not because she wants it. What do I do?” There’s so much to unpack in a scenario like this—boundaries, honesty, sex, and what you desire for your relationship. I share my thoughts on what it means to read something so personal, how our sex lives and sexuality evolves, and how to move forward with compassion and curiosity instead of shame or withdrawal. This isn’t about blame—it’s about creating deeper intimacy through real conversations. If you’re struggling with questions around sex in your relationship or how to reconnect with your partner, this conversation will inspire ideas you can take to your own relationship. Sponsored by: This episode is sponsored by my 1:1 coaching. If you're in a season of change—grappling with intimacy, partnership, self-trust, or simply figuring out who you are now—having someone to lean on can change everything. Whether you're navigating grief, disconnection, or just the complexities of being human, coaching gives you a grounded space to feel supported, seen, and understood. I offer personal, integrative coaching that meets you where you are.  Learn more or book a session here → This episode is also sponsored by Common Confidential — a product line designed to make intimate moments feel easier, more connected, and more beautiful. Since we’re talking about nurturing the intimate lives with our partner’s Common Confidential’s products are an obvious must. I literally designed them for more deeper connection and more intimate moments. From massage butter to love towels, these products are made to support presence and touch, no matter where you’re at in your relationship. Connect More Follow me here → Get a Daily Empowerment Journal for the year→ My Substack → Submit your question for a future episode via Instagram @iammeganmarieee Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Audible and Amazon Music  

Happy New Year! In this episode, I talk about the idea of rebranding your life, not just setting goals or intentions, but redefining who you are, how you show up, and what you want your life to look like in this next chapter of life. I reflect on what New Year’s used to mean (remember resolutions?) and why we should shift toward something deeper. For 2026 I'm moving in the direction of a rebrand, not just a simple goal. Join me in a personal rebrand, with these five steps that will help you create what your new year.  We're starting with a personal tagline and getting all the way to outlining the first steps to aligning with the person you want to be. Whether you like to start your new year with rituals or not, I think we all find some reflections or future intentions pass through our minds. If you're craving more clarity or alignment in the new year, or if you just want to feel a little more you this episode is for you. This episode is a cozy, reflective listen with a little humor, a little soul, and a lot of permission to change. Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by my integrative coaching practice. Maybe one of your steps into the new year is looking for a place or person that offers that extra support. If you’re moving through a life transition or simply craving more alignment in who you are and how you live, coaching can be the perfect place to land. My work blends real conversation with deep listening and gentle accountability, helping you connect the dots between what you want and what’s actually happening. Whether you're craving a rebrand or just someone unbiased to process with, I'm here to support your next chapter. Learn more or book a session here → Follow me here → Get a Daily Empowerment Journal for the year→ My Substack Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Audible and Amazon Music

In this tender and reflective episode, I share something that's been on my mind following the passing of my grandma. I hadn’t planned to record this episode, but when I found myself in a quiet house with a moment to reflect, the words just came. This conversation is less about grief and more about what it stir in us...the deep questions that surface in the wake of loss and how it challenges our views. What does it mean to be a good person? How do we show up with loving kindness? What makes a life meaningful when it's all said and done? I talk about my time with my grandma in her final days, the beautiful community surrounding her, and how her life made me reflect on what truly matters. I also share a moving essay I recently read, that reimagines what it means to live with integrity—not from rules or pressure, but from love. This one’s from the heart. I hope it gives you something to sit with. Key Themes: Reflecting on loss and love What it means to live with integrity and intention Letting go of perfection and choosing presence Loving-kindness in action A reimagined guide for living a good life Support the Podcast: This episode is sponsored by my integrative counseling practice. When you’re moving through loss, change, or even quiet transitions, it helps to have someone in your corner. Coaching gives you a space to be heard, supported, and gently challenged, without judgment or pressure. Whether you're processing something heavy or just trying to find your footing again, I’m here to hold space for your growth, grief, and everything in between. If you're looking for a thoughtful and grounded place to land, I offer one-on-one sessions and long-term support. You can learn more about my work at iammeganmarie.com or reach out to talk about what support might look like for you. Resources Mentioned: Coming Home to Who You Are by David Richo Journaling prompts: “What does loving-kindness mean to me?” “What does it mean to live with integrity?” “Where can I show up more gently for myself and others?” Follow: You can follow me on my Instagram @iammeganmarieee For more writing and thoughts you can also follow my Substack Life Notes on Instagram

I wasn’t sure I had it in me to record this episode. I sat down feeling distracted and heavy, dealing with personal stuff, but I reminded myself of a truth I come back to all the time: you don’t have to feel motivated to start. You just have to start. In this episode, I talk about what it looks like to hijack your own productivity, especially on the days when you don’t feel like doing anything. I share the little systems I lean on to keep going when I’m not feeling inspired, how I manage my energy and nervous system, and what I’ve learned about showing up even when it’s hard. Whether you’re a business owner, a parent, or just someone trying to get through your to-do list, this is for you. I also share a little book rec (it’s short, I promise), some thoughts on hustle culture, and why learning how to create your own motivation is one of the most freeing things you can do. Sponsor: This episode is supported by my integrative counseling work, where I help clients connect the dots between how they’re feeling and how they’re living. Whether you’re navigating a major life shift, rebuilding self-trust, or ready to move forward with more clarity and purpose, I work 1:1 with clients to help them come back to themselves. Reach out to me directly if you're curious, I'd love to connect! Mentioned in this Episode: The Greatest Salesman in the World by Og Mandino → Find it here Mouth tape from TapeHer — use code CONFIDENTIAL for 15% off Megan’s Daily Empowerment Journal on Amazon

In this cozy, reflective episode, Megan takes you inside the Common Confidential Gift Guide — not just what’s on the list, but why. With a grounded take on conscious consumerism, she shares her thoughts on giving with intention, choosing simplicity over overwhelm, and leaning into gifts that foster connection, sensuality, and self-care. From ethical intimacy essentials to clean perfume, mood-enhancing drinks, and rituals like puzzles and breakfast in bed, this episode is full of thoughtful ideas and unexpected favorites. Megan also gives an honest PSA about the integrity of Common Confidential, natural product textures and how embracing imperfections is part of the magic. Whether you're holiday shopping, romanticizing your morning coffee, or just craving a slower pace this season, this episode is here to inspire meaningful giving—and remind you that intentional gifts always go further.   Sponsor / Support: This episode is supported by Common Confidential, a curated line of clean, natural and organic intimacy essentials designed for creating more connected moments. Explore the full gift guide or shop for your own massage butter at commonconfidential.com    Links / Resources: Full Gift Guide New York Times Crossword Puzzle Book CHEEX subscription - code MARLEY for a free week trial   Beautiful Backgammon Set Fujifilm Instax Camera Couple’s card game Mood Beverages  Henry Rose Perfume - EWG verified Primally Pure  Mouth tape- code CONFIDENTIAL for 15% off  Natural Cycles Cure electrolytes Daily Empowerment Journal Breakfast in bed tray   Aurore - code COMMON 10% off  

In this episode of Life Notes, I reflect on my recent experience participating in a SAR — a sexuality attitude reassessment — and what it taught me not just about sexuality, but about curiosity, tolerance, and ways we can expand our mind. I share how exposing myself to a wide range of experiences, stories, and identities allowed me to deepen my understanding of others and myself, but also how you can do that too. I discuss how we can take the values and lessons from the SAR and use them as tools for growth in all areas of life. This episode is about noticing what comes up when we’re challenged, how personal growth shapes professional growth, and why expanding your mind is one of the kindest things you can do for yourself. I also talk about the quiet magic of Thanksgiving alone, my new at-home cappuccino obsession, and why curiosity matters- always. What you’ll hear in this episode: • What a SAR is, and my reflections since • How personal growth reflects into professional growth • Why curiosity is more powerful than judgment • How to create your own “mini SAR” for self-discovery • Quiet reflections on choosing what you need over what you “should” do   This episode is supported by my Integrative Counseling Practice. If you're exploring identity, sexuality, personal growth, or simply craving a place to reflect without judgment, I offer one-on-one sessions designed to support your real-life evolution.  📚 Mentioned in the Episode SAR (Sexuality Attitude Reassessment) My ongoing sexuality counseling certification Integrative Counseling Practice My newest baby - my espresso machine  

In this episode of Life Notes, I reflect on releasing this podcast before it was “ready,” and why that imperfect timing might be exactly what made it perfect. I share a few updates from life and Common Confidential, talk about what it’s been like feeling the need to step back from social media,  but also stay involved as a business owner and lady of social media. I explore the quiet craving many of us are feeling — for slower days, softer thoughts, and simpler joys. That millennial urge for nostalgia, old movies, tinkering through Grandma's house, and what I picture when I think about the future I’m building. This one meanders in the best way. It’s about imperfect timing, simple pleasures, and the soft resistance of choosing quiet over chaos. What you’ll hear in this episode: • How imperfection is perfect • Nostalgia, slowness, and romanticizing regular life • Why I feel the pull to step back a little more from social media • Updates on Common Confidential’s Massage Butter and new Minis • A peek into my quiet dream life (ducks included)   This episode is supported by Common Confidential. Our signature Massage Butter is back in stock — made to help you slow down, connect more deeply, and create intimate moments with ease. Massage Butter is the perfect gift for your partner, your best friend, or yourself. You can shop the full intimate collection here.   • Common Confidential Massage Butter • Mini Massage Butter – redesigned and relaunched

In this episode of Life Notes, I talk about something we rarely pause to notice: our nervous systems. From social media overload to subtle daily stressors, we’re constantly being activated and most of us have just gotten used to it. I share some of the small ways I’ve learned to create calm and reclaim my energy, from how I use social media to sitting in silence in the car. This episode is a reminder that we don’t have to overhaul everything to feel better. Sometimes it starts with one unfollow, one deep breath, or one choice to pause before jumping into the noise.   What you’ll hear in this episode: • How to notice when your nervous system is on high alert • The subtle impact of social media and constant input • Why silence and slowness matter more than we realize • Tips for small daily shifts that support your peace • Why you might need to unfollow “professionally hot people” (yes, we get into it)   If you're craving a space to reconnect with yourself, I offer one-on-one integrative counseling sessions. Whether you're navigating burnout, overstimulation, or simply trying to feel more like yourself again, this is a place to slow down and reflect. You can learn more or reach out here. https://www.iammeganmarie.com/   xx Megan

In this episode of Life Notes, I reflect on how much time and energy we spend judging other people’s lives and what it would look like to stop. I share thoughts sparked by something I read in the book 101 Essays That Will Change the Way You Think, and how often our opinions about others are more about us than them. From relationships that look “bad” to choices we don’t understand, I explore what it means to truly let people live their lives. I talk about compassion, energy, boundaries, and how easy it is to carry subtle judgment without realizing it. We've all found ourselves caught-up in someone else’s story, this episode is a reminder to come back to your own.   What you’ll hear in this episode: • Why judgment is often a reflection of our own discomfort • How comparison and over-analysis drain your energy • Ways to shift from judgment to empathy • Why understanding doesn’t mean agreeing • How to stay in your own life and protect your energy   If this episode resonated and you're in a season where you're learning to hold compassion for yourself and others, I offer one-on-one integrative counseling sessions. This is a space for deep reflection, clarity, and soft personal growth. If you’re ready to explore what’s next for you, you can learn more or reach out here.   Links & Resources • 101 Essays That Will Change the Way You Think by Brianna Wiest   xx Megan