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An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth

Kelly Arrendell and Sydney Arrendell

Everyone wants to live a fulfilled life with less stress and more laughter. Join Kelly Arrendell and Sydney West as they explore the wonder, humor, challenges, and sometimes self-inflicted wounds on the journey of personal growth. Our weekly podcast conversations provide tools you can incorporate into your own path of growth. The journey to becoming more fully yourself is lifelong but is something you can start now, wherever you are. Kelly is our resident expert on self-growth and shares her own mistakes and resources, with Sydney asking questions relevant to millennials and Gen-Zers. Take a breath, and take a listen.

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24 episodes
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Avg 26 min
English

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S3 · E37
Tuesday · 25 min
Episode 142- Emotional Intelligence
In this episode of An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth, Sydney and Kelly explore emotional intelligence and how understanding our emotions—and the emotions of others—can shape the way we communicate, connect, and grow. What is Emotional Intelligence (EQ) Naming emotions Regulating and managing your emotions Being able to sense when certain emotions are rising Finding right time and place to express yourself Empathy 5 Signs of emotional intelligence Website: anincompleteguide.com Instagram: @anincompleteguide YouTube: @AnIncompleteGuide
S3 · E36
October 6 · 24 min
Episode 141- Careful Speech
In this episode of An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth, Sydney and Kelly tackle the subject of careful—or right—speech. They explore what it means to speak with intention, kindness, and awareness, while Kelly admits this is an area she is constantly working on! What is careful or right speech? Abstaining from false speech, abstaining from malicious speech, abstaining from harsh speech and idle chatter Two ends of the spectrum Asking: Is it true? Is it kind? Is it beneficial? Is it necessary? Is it the right time? Reacting emotionally Misunderstanding Feeling unheard Giving yourself time Website: anincompleteguide.com Instagram: @anincompleteguide YouTube: @AnIncompleteGuide
S3 · E35
September 29 · 21 min
Episode 140- Loving Kindness
In this episode of An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth, Sydney and Kelly introduce the Loving-Kindness Meditation and explore how it can be used to cultivate compassion, kindness, and a greater sense of connection with ourselves and others. Resource Sharon Salzberg---Loving Kindness Love is not a feeling, it's an ability---Dan In Real Life Yourself, those we love, those who are neutral,those who are difficult A way of spreading "seeds" loving energy "Love is always there as a potential, ready to flourish," Sharon Salzberg May you be happy; May you be peaceful, May you live with ease This is an offering It is a way of seeing people Website: anincompleteguide.com Instagram: @anincompleteguide YouTube: @AnIncompleteGuide
S3 · E34
September 22 · 23 min
Episode 139- Fun Questions!
In this episode of An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth, Sydney and Kelly have fun answering a variety of questions—most are funny, some are just plain odd, and all are sure to spark a few laughs and maybe even a little reflection. What animal would you choose to live as for a day Who would you want to narrate your life? Highlight of childhood If you could only use five words the rest of your life A useless talent A product you can't live without A hobby you would like to get better at Favorite fast food Favorite children's book Website: anincompleteguide.com Instagram: @anincompleteguide YouTube: @AnIncompleteGuide
S3 · E33
September 15 · 35 min
Episode 138- Failure
In this episode of An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth, Sydney and Kelly explore failure—the fear of it, the lessons it can teach us, and the unexpected benefits that can come from getting things wrong. They reflect on how failure can challenge us, shape us, and ultimately become an important part of personal growth. What defines failure Perceived failure and expectations Types of failure: rejection, moral, paradoxical, expectations of others Learning from failure and resilience Can spark creativity, re-envision goals Teaches us about ourselves Fear of failure, is it learned? Website: anincompleteguide.com Instagram: @anincompleteguide YouTube: @AnIncompleteGuide
S3 · E32
September 8 · 21 min
Episode 137- Catastrophizing
In this episode of An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth, Sydney and Kelly talk about catastrophizing—the tendency to imagine the worst possible outcome and let our fears take over. They explore why we catastrophize, how it can impact our thoughts and emotions, and what we can do to recognize and challenge those “what if” scenarios. Definition of catastrophizing Jumping to the worst conclusion Negative core beliefs and views Ex: I believe the event will be terrible and I won't be able to handle it How Sydney and Kelly catatrophize Ways that may help work through it Think about the facts, about the positives Cut the story Website: anincompleteguide.com Instagram: @anincompleteguide YouTube: @AnIncompleteGuide
S3 · E31
September 1 · 23 min
Episode 136- Awe
In this episode of An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth, Sydney and Kelly explore the emotion of awe. What happens when we encounter something that leaves us amazed, humbled, or deeply moved? They reflect on the moments that inspire awe, how this powerful emotion can shift our perspective. Defining "awe" Expands our sense of connection Uplifting Promotes openness, creativity, and understanding of complex systems Can be in awe of the horrific as well as wonderful and beauty 8 types of Awe Personal growth and awe: people who see everyday awe show evidence of living with wonder and are more open to new ideas and the unknown. Website: anincompleteguide.com Instagram: @anincompleteguide YouTube: @AnIncompleteGuide
S3 · E30
August 25 · 27 min
Episode 135- A Reintroduction!
In this episode of An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth, Sydney and Kelly reintroduce themselves, sharing more about who they are, what has shaped them, and the experiences that continue to influence their personal growth. Whether you're a longtime listener or joining us for the first time, this episode offers a fresh look at the people behind the microphones and the heart behind the podcast. A little about Sydney Her love of music A little about Kelly Spirituality Why this podcast Our differences Our growth and change Website: anincompleteguide.com Instagram: @anincompleteguide YouTube: @AnIncompleteGuide
S3 · E29
August 18 · 24 min
Episode 134- Book Review: "The Choice" by Edith Eger
In this episode of An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth, Sydney and Kelly discuss The Choice: Even in Hell Hope Can Flower by Edith Eger. Through Eger's extraordinary story of surviving the Holocaust and becoming a renowned psychologist, they explore the power of resilience, forgiveness, and the freedom found in choosing how we respond to life's hardships. Join them as they reflect on healing from trauma, letting go of victimhood, and discovering hope even in life's darkest moments. Resiliance and power of your own choices "They can't take what is in your mind" There is a universality to this story, human suffering Prisons of our own making Paying attention to what we've lost or what we have Running away from pain and past doesn't ease the pain Will love ripple out from me or hate Website: anincompleteguide.com Instagram: @anincompleteguide YouTube: @AnIncompleteGuide
S3 · E28
August 11 · 25 min
Episode 133- Validation
In this episode of An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth, Sydney and Kelly explore our need for validation—where it comes from, why we seek it, and how it shapes our relationships, decisions, and sense of self. Together, they examine the difference between healthy affirmation and an unhealthy dependence on others' approval, offering thoughtful insights on finding confidence and worth from within. What do we mean by validation Internal and External Don't confuse validation with acceptance of your idea...that you are "right" and they are "wrong" Need for validation can change We are wired for the need for validation Reassurance How do you hold up when you aren't validated by someone Self-validation Signs you rely too much on validation How to detach from unhealthy need for validation Website: anincompleteguide.com Instagram: @anincompleteguide YouTube: @AnIncompleteGuide
S3 · E27
August 4 · 26 min
Episode 132- Siblings
In this episode of An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth, Sydney and Kelly explore the unique dynamics of sibling relationships. From childhood rivalries and lifelong friendships to the ways our brothers and sisters shape who we become, they discuss the joys, challenges, and lasting impact of growing up alongside siblings. Our personal experience as siblings Birth order What we learn as siblings Younger years Teen Years Adulthood Website: anincompleteguide.com Instagram: @anincompleteguide YouTube: @AnIncompleteGuide
S3 · E26
July 28 · 27 min
Episode 131- Guilt
In this episode of An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth, Sydney and Kelly discuss guilt—where it comes from, how it affects our lives, and how learning to navigate it can lead to greater self-awareness and personal growth. Healthy vs. Toxic Guilt Guilt does have a purpose...a moral compass Defining guilt How guilt feels physically Values and guilt Should, oughts, and guilt Manipulative guilt Website: anincompleteguide.com Instagram: @anincompleteguide YouTube: @AnIncompleteGuide
S3 · E25
July 21 · 28 min
Episode 130- Attachment
In this episode of An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth, Sydney and Kelly explore the concepts of attachment and detachment. They discuss how the things we cling to—whether people, expectations, identities, or outcomes—can shape our emotional well-being, and how practicing healthy detachment can create space for greater peace, resilience, and personal growth. Types of attachments Bonding or clinging Fixation of ideas, isms Personal attachments Non-attachment is not an apathetic quality How attachments can hurt us What things, ideas, emotions am I attached to Religious attachment versus spirituality Presence What are you holding on tightly to today? Website: anincompleteguide.com Instagram: @anincompleteguide YouTube: @AnIncompleteGuide
S3 · E24
July 14 · 19 min
Episode 129- Mental Health and Hygiene
In this episode of An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth, Sydney and Kelly dive into the often-overlooked relationship between hygiene and mental health. From the struggle to maintain routines during stressful times to the confidence and stability that self-care can provide, they share personal experiences and practical insights along the way. Hygiene defined...physical self-care and your environment Your self-care and how you keep your environment reflect your self-worth Dressing how your feel or want to feel New mothers who don't have time for themselves can feel they are neglecting their own hygiene Having grace periods Depression, anxiety, PTSD all may impact self-care and hygiene When it's overwhelming pick one thing to do...brush my teeth, put on a clean shirt, wash your face Often neglecting hygiene is the first outward sign of depression and struggle What about the opposite of neglect...the other extreme Website: anincompleteguide.com Instagram: @anincompleteguide YouTube: @AnIncompleteGuide
S3 · E23
July 7 · 24 min
Episode 128- Procrastination
In this episode of An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth, Sydney and Kelly tackle the ever-present challenge of procrastination. They explore why we put things off, how procrastination impacts personal growth, and the strategies they’ve used to overcome it. Through honest conversation, personal stories, and practical insights, they unpack the habits and mindsets that can help us move from avoidance to action. How do Kelly and Sydney procrastinate? Science and the structure of our brain influences procrastination Procrastination is not simply laziness Types of procrastination...active and passive Passive...hard to make decisions...avoidance Active...purposefully waiting because want to be under pressure Reasons we procrastinate...perfectionists, dreamer, defier, worrier, crisis maker, over-doer Procrastination and anxiety What helps us move forward Finding the intrinsic motivation Professional help Website: anincompleteguide.com Instagram: @anincompleteguide YouTube: @AnIncompleteGuide
S3 · E22
June 30 · 17 min
Episode 127- iFly Experience
In this episode of An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth, Sydney and Kelly take a leap outside their comfort zones and head to iFLY Indoor Skydiving for an indoor skydiving adventure. They reflect on the anticipation, nerves, excitement, and lessons that come from trying something new and embracing uncertainty. Join them as they explore how stepping beyond familiar boundaries can build confidence, foster growth, and remind us that sometimes the biggest rewards come from taking the leap. Overall a good experience Clean and felt safe Instructor is with you Group building and parties Expensive for the amount of time I would go again for special occasions Of course Sydney got a better evaluation than Kelly Website: anincompleteguide.com Instagram: @anincompleteguide YouTube: @AnIncompleteGuide
S3 · E21
June 23 · 39 min
Episode 126- Speech and Personal Growth, Interview with Hannah Kauffman
In this episode of An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth, Sydney and Kelly sit down with speech pathologist Hannah Kauffman to explore the vital role communication plays in our lives. Hannah shares insights from her professional experience helping others communicate effectively and reflects on how her work has shaped her own relationships, self-awareness, and personal growth. Join us for a thoughtful conversation about the power of communication, the challenges it presents, and the ways developing this essential skill can lead to deeper connection and personal transformation. Music and theater experiences led Hannah to her career in speech pathology Quality of life after strokes and trauma Establishing a new normal after injury Utilizing music and art to tap various parts of the brain Many things come under the umbrella of speech pathology Separating work from home and personal life Guiding decision making with families Giving the 100% of whatever percent you have that day Website: anincompleteguide.com Instagram: @anincompleteguide YouTube: @AnIncompleteGuide
S3 · E20
June 16 · 24 min
Episode 125- What We Wish We Knew
In this episode of An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth, Sydney and Kelly talk about things they never expected to need to know. Money stuff Funeral Planning ahead of time Planning meals the rest of your life ICU delirium Advocating Laundry You hit a guard rail, you have to pay for it Website: anincompleteguide.com Instagram: @anincompleteguide YouTube: @AnIncompleteGuide
S3 · E19
June 9 · 31 min
Episode 124- Processing Anger
In this episode of An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth, Sydney and Kelly explore what lies beneath our anger and how we can process it in healthy, constructive ways. They discuss the deeper emotions anger can mask, the gifts anger can offer, and practical tools for understanding and expressing it with greater awareness and compassion. Personality has an influence on how we express and deal with anger Holding in anger Anger is not bad...it is a gift...it is telling us something is not right Anger can move us to action...necessary action Core anger and defensive anger Steps to processing anger Body awareness and anger Healing the emotions behind anger is key to easing anger Clearing some emotions creates space to receive joy and assuredness What have I contributed to the situation that added to my anger Website: anincompleteguide.com Instagram: @anincompleteguide YouTube: @AnIncompleteGuide
S3 · E18
June 2 · 20 min
Episode 123- Our Vacation Memories
In this episode of An Incomplete Guide to Personal Growth, Sydney and Kelly reminisce about past vacations and discuss why those experiences are important. Importance of vacations Types of vacations Memory making Website: anincompleteguide.com Instagram: @anincompleteguide YouTube: @AnIncompleteGuide

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