E208: Surviving Suicide to Changing Lives: How Self Care Can Save Your Life with Darryll Stinson

Have you ever wondered, “What do I do with the rest of my life?” If so, this episode is your invitation to see that question not as an ending, but as the beginning of something transformational. In this solo episode, I’m speaking directly to those who’ve weathered major life changes — divorce, grief, career upheaval, or the empty nest. If you’ve ever been told you'd make a great coach, or you feel a quiet call within you to help others, this conversation will light the path ahead. I break down the myths about who’s “qualified” to be a coach and offer a reframing that will change how you see your past — and your potential. Whether you’re feeling stuck, uncertain, or inspired, you’ll learn why your imperfections and lived experience are your greatest assets. What we explore: You don’t need to have it all figured out to become a coach. Your lived experience — not your perfection — is what qualifies you. Transformational coaching begins with your own personal growth. Life coach training is as much about healing yourself as it is about serving others. The ROI is not just about investment in yourself - it’s the ripple of impact you create in the world.   If you’re ready to take the next step, I invite you to download my free workbook: Rewrite the Story Keeping You Stuck: Become the Life Coach You’re Meant to Be 👉 nancy levin.com/rewrite   Connect with me: Newsletter nancylevin.comInstagramFacebook

What if being single and childfree wasn’t a consolation prize—but a portal to deep peace, freedom, and joy? In this powerful conversation, I’m joined by the vibrant and wonderful Lucy Meggeson—host of the Thrive Solo podcast and author of the book by the same name (or Shiny Happy Singles if you're in the UK). Together, we explore the liberation, sovereignty, and delight that come from embracing a solo path. Lucy opens up about the moment she realized that singlehood was not just her circumstance—it was her choice and her joy. We unpack the outdated societal narratives that equate coupledom with success and lovingly challenge the stigma around choosing solitude. From reclaiming the word “selfish” to transmuting sexual energy into creative power, this episode is a bold manifesto for living life on your own terms. What we explore: Joyfully single is not an oxymoron—it’s a lifestyle, a choice, and a liberation. Reclaiming “selfish” as self-honoring and soul-serving. Solitude fosters emotional regulation, clarity, and inner peace. The myth of the “less than” single woman must be dismantled. Sex, or the lack thereof, can be a channel for profound creative expression.   Loved this episode? Please share it with a woman who needs permission to put herself first. And don’t forget to leave a review—it helps others find the show!   Connect with Lucy: Website and Community: lucymeggeson.comLucy's Book: Thrive Solo (US/Canada) / Shiny Happy Singles (UK)Podcast: Thrive Solo with Lucy Meggeson Instagram: @thrivesolowithlucymeggeson     Connect with me: Newsletter nancylevin.comInstagramFacebook     #Mindset #Boundaries #SelfDevelopment #ThriveSoloPodcast #NancyLevin #Coaching #PersonalGrowth #ShadowWork #SingleAndThriving #EmotionalFreedom

In this episode of The Nancy Levin Show, I’m speaking directly to the part of you that’s dreaming of becoming a coach or levelling up—but holding back because you feel like an imposter. If you’ve ever wondered, “Who am I to do this?” or feared that you’re not ready, I want you to know: you’re not alone—and you're not wrong for caring. Imposter syndrome isn’t a sign you’re unqualified. It’s a sign you care deeply about doing this work with integrity. And the truth is, confidence doesn’t come first—it comes from taking aligned action inside the right container of support. That’s what coach training provides: not just tools, but a transformation in how you see yourself. What We Explore: Why imposter syndrome is actually a signal of your integrity The stories aspiring coaches tell themselves that hold them back Why waiting to feel ready will keep you stuck How training helps you trust yourself and your skills The ethical importance of building a solid foundation The shift from “aspiring coach” to “empowered coach”   If you’re ready to take the next step, I invite you to download my free workbook: Rewrite the Story Keeping You Stuck: Become the Life Coach You’re Meant to Be 👉 nancy levin.com/rewrite   Connect with me: Newsletter  nancylevin.com Instagram Facebook    

Have you ever felt frozen on the edge of a big life decision—knowing it’s the right move but unable to leap? In this solo episode, I share how to work with fear instead of against it. Whether you're navigating a breakup, a career pivot, or the uncertainty of caregiving, I guide you through how to build a relationship with fear, use it as your compass, and honor your higher self in the process. We unpack the myth that courage means fearlessness and reframe fear as a dance partner to transformation. You’ll hear tangible mindset shifts and practical tools to build emotional capacity and move forward—one brave step at a time. If you're ready to stop waiting for the fear to disappear and start stepping into the life you're meant for, this episode is for you.     💡 What we explore: Fear doesn’t go away—it’s something we walk with. Courage isn’t the absence of fear, it’s moving forward with fear present. Fear is often a misguided protector, trying to shield you from pain or rejection. Creating a dialogue with fear transforms it from a roadblock to a guide. Action builds clarity, momentum, and confidence—fear loses power when you act.     💬 Reflection Prompts What’s one moment in your life when you felt fear and took action anyway? What is your fear trying to protect you from? What small, courageous step can you take today? Connect with me: Newsletter  nancylevin.com Instagram Facebook     #mindset #growth #shadowwork #coaching #selflove #selfdevelopment #midlife #menopause #meditation #boundaries #lifecoach #transformation #emotionalfreedom #fearandcourage  

In this episode of The Nancy Levin Show, I’m speaking directly to the midlife woman who’s been silently struggling behind the phrase, “I’m fine.” If you’ve built a life that looks perfect on the outside but feels hollow on the inside, this conversation is for you. Together, we explore the emotional cost of living in the land of “fine,” from burnout and anxiety to the quiet ache of lost purpose. I share the story of a client whose journey mirrors what so many of us face—and offer a pathway toward freedom, aliveness, and a life aligned with your truth. Let this be your invitation to say yes to yourself and reclaim your joy.   ✨ What we explore: “I’m fine” is often a mask that hides deep emotional unrest External success does not guarantee internal fulfillment Perfectionism and people-pleasing can disconnect you from your true self Fear of change keeps many women stuck in lives they’ve outgrown The first step to transformation is admitting that fine is no longer enough Journaling prompts to reconnect with your desires One small step toward alignment creates momentum for change Ready to stop settling for “fine” and start building a life that excites you? Stay tuned—I’ve got something special coming soon to support your next chapter. 💛 Connect with me: Newsletter  nancylevin.com Instagram Facebook    

In this moving episode of The Nancy Levin Show, I’m joined by my dear friend and extraordinary speaker, Darryll Stinson — a former Division I athlete, bestselling author, and two-time TEDx speaker whose transformational journey from trauma to truth is nothing short of breathtaking. Together, we explore the alchemy of vulnerability, the healing power of self-connection, and how Darryll has turned personal pain into powerful purpose. From surviving suicide attempts to becoming a voice for mental health and emotional authenticity, Darryll offers wisdom, compassion, and clarity for anyone ready to share their story, speak their truth, and embrace their wholeness. This conversation is a testament to the power of story, the necessity of self-care, and the liberation that comes when we stop hiding and start honoring all parts of ourselves. If you’ve ever wondered how to alchemize your lived and learned experience into a message that heals — this episode is for you.   ✨ What we explore: When we’re in right relationship with ourselves, we become more free from external judgment. Visibility isn’t about ego—it’s about purpose. We must become fully expressed in order to fully serve. Vulnerability lives on a spectrum. It’s not just about sharing trauma—it’s about being open to your truth, power, and presence. Transformation begins in the mirror. Darryll shares how mirror work helped him move from self-hate to self-love. You don’t need to wait for crisis to change. Your catalyst can be a conscious choice, not just a breakdown. The future belongs to fully-expressed, emotionally intelligent leaders. The next wave of speakers will embody deep self-awareness and divine availability. If this episode moved you, take a moment to pause and connect with your own story. What part of you is ready to be seen, heard, and healed?   Connect with Darryll: Website: www.darryllstinson.com Instagram: @stinsonspeaks LinkedIn: Darryll Stinson YouTube: @stinsonspeaks   Connect with me: Newsletter  nancylevin.com Instagram Facebook

In this fun and frank conversation, I welcome back Britt Frank—licensed psychotherapist, speaker, and author of The Science of Stuck and her new book Align Your Mind: Tame Your Inner Critic, and Make Peace with Your Shadow Using the Power of Parts Work. We explore the empowering intersection of Internal Family Systems (IFS) and shadow work, reframing our inner critic as a misguided protector, not a predator. Britt offers brilliant insights on how parts work allows us to embrace the fullness of who we are—including our compulsive habits, younger selves, and the traits we’ve tried to exile. Together, we dive into the potency of perimenopause and midlife as a rebirth—an invitation to reclaim our true essence and align with our deepest values. This conversation is a rallying cry to honor your wholeness, connect with your parts, and live from unapologetic authenticity.   ✨ What We Explore Together Shadow work means reconnecting with everything that’s true about you—including your gifts. Internal Family Systems (IFS) is not separate from shadow work—it is shadow work in practice. The inner critic can become your internal coach when you understand it’s trying to protect you. Our compulsive behaviors are survival strategies, not character defects. Reparenting your younger parts creates emotional momentum and deep healing. Midlife is not a decline—it’s an initiation into your second becoming. Self-worth does not kill ambition. In fact, the more full of self-love you are, the more you can create. Connect with Britt: WebsiteInstagram Ready to align with your wholeness and reclaim your truth? Grab Britt’s new book Align Your Mind and begin a powerful new relationship with your inner world.   Connect with Me: Newsletter  nancylevin.com Instagram Facebook  

In this episode of The Nancy Levin Show, I reconnect with my dear friend Michelle Phillips — renowned celebrity makeup artist, self-confidence coach, bestselling author, and now podcast host of The Beauty Shift. Our bond began over a decade ago, rooted in our shared experiences of reclaiming our power after abusive relationships. Now, we dive deep into the evolution of beauty, self-worth, and the journey of learning to put ourselves first. Michelle shares her raw, vulnerable story of breaking free from the illusion of perfection and discovering the true essence of confidence. We talk about shedding outdated ideals, navigating midlife, and how real beauty radiates from authenticity and radical self-love — not products, procedures, or perfection. This conversation is a call to redefine what beauty means, at any age.   What we explore together: Michelle and I both shared how we used to project perfection while silently struggling, and how true healing began when we stopped hiding our pain. Real beauty begins when we reclaim who we are, instead of trying to match who we think we’re supposed to be. Self-love isn’t indulgence — it’s boundaries, saying no, and choosing ourselves again and again. Midlife isn’t a crisis; it’s a chance to rewrite the rules and finally live for ourselves. The beauty industry is slowly shifting toward age and body inclusivity, and Michelle is using her platform to amplify that movement. True self-care shows up in how we sleep, eat, move, and speak to ourselves — not just what we put on our skin.   Connect with Michelle: Website: michellephillips.com Instagram: @michellephillipsbeauty LinkedIn: Michelle Phillips Podcast: The Beauty Shift   Connect with me: Newsletter  nancylevin.com Instagram Facebook  

What if your health destiny isn't written in stone? In today’s episode, I’m exploring the empowering truth that we have more influence over our brain health and longevity than we might believe. I'm joined by my new friend and colleague, Dr. Ryan Williamson, a board-certified neurologist and founder of Transcend Health, for a conversation filled with hope, science, and practical strategies. Ryan and I dive into how the small choices we make every day — around sleep, movement, nutrition, and stress — shape the trajectory of our cognitive health, especially post menopause. We also reflect on the powerful role that purpose, community, and connection play in extending both our lifespan and our healthspan.   What we explore: Why cognitive decline is not inevitable — and how much is within your control The Core Four pillars that Ryan recommends for brain vitality How movement and even "exercise snacks" can dramatically extend your healthspan What you need to know about sleep, stress, and longevity The critical role of purpose — and how it fuels your resilience   Connect with Dr. Ryan Williamson: Website: TranscendHealthGroup.com Instagram: @transcendhealthgroup Instagram (Personal): @dr.ryanwilliamson   Connect with me: Newsletter  nancylevin.com Instagram Facebook  

In this powerful and personal conversation, I’m joined by the unforgettable Ramona J. Smith — 2018 Toastmasters International World Champion of Public Speaking. Ramona’s story is about far more than public speaking accolades. It's a journey of courage, confidence, and claiming her worth — financially, personally, and professionally. From teaching high school to setting stages ablaze across five continents, Ramona opens up about what it really took to transform her mindset and bank account. We explore the pivotal role my book Worthy played in helping Ramona shift from a scarcity story into a self-worth-centered approach to money and business. With boldness, honesty, and fire, she shares how she rewrote her internal narrative, raised her prices, and finally began to live — and earn — in alignment with her value. Whether you're a coach, speaker, entrepreneur, or anyone ready to ditch people-pleasing and step into unapologetic worth, this episode is a must-listen. What we explore together:  The behind-the-scenes of how Ramona went from classroom to global stages  How a conversation with another champion led her to my book ‘Worthy’  Worthiness as the foundation of wealth  Why affirmations alone won’t change your bank account How to find the courage to raise your rates and start charging what you’re worth — today   → Feeling stuck in your pricing, your self-worth, or your visibility? Start with the inner work. Pick up a copy of Worthy and do the exercises, then, just like Ramona – take action!   And if you’re ready for deeper support, reach out to me at nancylevin.com! Connect with Ramona: Website A World Champion's Guide to Public Speaking YouTube  Instagram  LinkedIn 📱 Text Ramona directly: 216-309-2341 📧 Email: [email protected]   Connect with me: Newsletter  nancylevin.com Instagram Facebook