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Real Chat with Kat

Kat Polsinelli

Welcome to Real Chat with Kat — the podcast that’s all about real conversations for real transformation.

I’m your host, Kat Polsinelli, and here we tackle the tough stuff — the pivots, the challenges, and the victories that shape our lives and businesses.

From overcoming trauma and finding your voice to navigating life’s unexpected twists, we get raw, honest, and open with inspiring guests who share their stories of resilience, healing, and growth. Whether it’s breaking through emotional abuse, embracing self-worth, or thriving in entrepreneurship, you’ll find connection, empowerment, and tools to keep moving forward.

So grab your favorite drink, settle in, and get ready for stories that hit home and conversations that make a difference. Let’s get real — together!

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Avg 51 min
English

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#232
Yesterday · 53 min
Breaking Free from Financial Stress & Scarcity w/ Jeannie Dougherty
In this episode What if your relationship with money has less to do with the numbers and more to do with what you believe, feel, and do with money? In this episode of Real Chat with Kat, Jeannie Dougherty and I dive into the emotional and behavioral side of money. We talk about rewiring money mindsets, moving from scarcity to “plenty,” creating healthier financial boundaries, and how our relationship with money can impact our relationships, decisions, and everyday lives. We also discuss financial scams, shared financial responsibility, and why simply knowing the numbers isn't always enough to create meaningful change. Meet my guest Jeannie Dougherty is a money coach whose clients call her the Money Whisperer. She works with entrepreneurs and couples who want to make their money work for them rather than feel like it’s working against them. Jeannie's own experience with family, grief, and the loss of a $1 million estate opened her eyes to a gap in the financial industry and ultimately led her to emotional behavioral money coaching. Today, she helps people move beyond scarcity, confusion, and stress toward greater clarity, confidence, and healthier financial choices. Quote/Piece of Advice: What you think, what you speak, and how you feel about money will lead you to your actions. Connect with Jeannie: LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, Podcast To connect with your host Kat: @KatPolsinelli My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect
#231
September 18 · 57 min
Healing Childhood Trauma, PTSD & Breaking the Cycle w/ Greg Pihs
In this episode What happens when survival becomes purpose? In Part 1 of my conversation with Greg Pihs, we talk about childhood trauma, resilience, military service, healing, and the journey of discovering who you are when survival is no longer the only option. Greg opens up about surviving unimaginable childhood trauma, serving three combat deployments in Iraq, and the challenges he faced after leaving the military. We talk about the impact of trauma, the difference between surviving and truly living, how self-development helped change the way he viewed himself and his future, and how our experiences can become part of a much bigger purpose. Meet my guest Greg Pihs is a Marine Corps veteran, bestselling author, and founder of GP Mind Growth Academy. His passion for helping others comes from his own journey of overcoming extreme childhood abuse and three combat deployments. Today, Greg is committed to helping others break cycles of unconscious suffering and transform their experiences into growth and purpose. His mission is to end childhood trauma within three generations — creating a future where the pain passed down through families doesn't have to continue. Quote/Piece of Advice: Life doesn't magically get better. But the things that I'm experimenting with, I'm seeing positive results from. Connect with Greg: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/greg.pihs.3/ Website: https://gpmindgrowthacademy.com/ To connect with your host Kat: @KatPolsinelli My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect
#230
September 11 · 54 min
How to Overcome the Fear of Public Speaking w/ Leisa Reid
In this episode Kat sits down with Leisa Reid, The Speaking Strategy Mentor, for an inspiring conversation about Meeting Purpose and finding the courage to use your voice. Together, they explore what it really takes to move past the fear of public speaking and step into authentic, confident communication. Kat and Leisa talk about why you should embody your message instead of memorizing it, how starting small can lead to big opportunities, and why your slides are simply the accessories — you are the presentation. They also dive into preparation, practice, connecting with an audience, adapting to different speaking environments, and shifting your focus from how you're being perceived to the value you're there to share. Most importantly, this conversation is a reminder that when the value of your message becomes bigger than your fear, everything can change. Your voice matters, your message matters, and there may be someone who needs exactly what you have to say. Meet my guest Leisa Reid is known as The Speaking Strategy Mentor and is the Founder of Get Speaking Gigs Now™ and CEO of the International Speaker Network™. With more than 600 talks delivered and nine books authored, Leisa helps business owners expand their impact beyond one-on-one work through the power of speaking. Leisa believes speaking isn't simply about giving a great talk — it's about creating a strategy to get booked, stay booked, and attract clients through the lifetime of your business. Her down-to-earth approach helps experts confidently share their message, grow their business, and create the impact they were meant to make — without the pressure to be perfect or “salesy.” When she isn't mentoring speakers, Leisa enjoys 80s music, live concerts, and life in Southern California with her family. Quote/Piece of Advice: Do what makes your heart sing. That's really why we're here. Connect with Leisa: Website: https://GetSpeakingGigsNow.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leisareid/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/leisa.reid.2/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/getspeakinggigsnow/ To connect with your host Kat: @KatPolsinelli My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect
#229
September 4 · 55 min
Quantum Healing, Intuition & Self-Trust w/ Wendy Hutchinson
In this episode What happens when you stop living for everyone else’s expectations and start trusting yourself? In this powerful conversation, Wendy Hutchinson and I dive into intuition, self-trust, trauma, energy, quantum healing, and the courage it takes to reclaim your authentic self. We explore why intuition isn’t a special gift reserved for a select few, how unresolved trauma can continue to weigh us down, and what it looks like to release the expectations and patterns that keep us from living fully as ourselves. Wendy also shares her unique perspectives on quantum healing, self-actualization, and learning to recognize and trust those inner nudges. Meet my guest Wendy Hutchinson is a Wisdom Keeper, Quantum Soul Healer, Soul Guide, Author, Podcast Host, and owner of Alinea Life Coaching. Her own journey of transformation began with a powerful message: “Save yourself.” That wake-up call led her to peel away years of people-pleasing, expectations, and conditioning and reconnect with her authentic self. Today, Wendy helps others energetically clear trauma and reconnect their mind, body, and soul. Through her work, she encourages people to release unhealthy family and cultural patterns, trust their intuition, and step more fully into their purpose. Quote/Piece of Advice: You're not here to be a version of you that meets someone else's expectations. You're here to be you. Connect with Wendy: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wendy.hutchinson.50 Website & Podcast: https://linktr.ee/WendyHutch Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mamahutch47/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WendyHutchinson444 To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect
#228
August 28 · 59 min
Build a Personal Brand Through Authentic Storytelling w/ Marina Byezhanova
In this episode What does it really mean to build a personal brand that reflects who you are, not just what you do? Kat and Marina Byezhanova dive into personal branding, authentic storytelling, and the fears that often keep entrepreneurs and leaders from sharing their stories. Marina shares why your story is the setting and your message is the main character, along with insights on AI search, earned media, visibility, and why authenticity starts with having the courage to show up as yourself. Meet my guest Marina Byezhanova is the Co-Founder & CEO of Brand of a Leader, a personal branding agency serving entrepreneurs and executives across 12 countries. A member of the Entrepreneurs' Organization for 11 years and Chair of the first EO Women Global Summit, Marina is known for her candid approach to leadership and her contrarian perspective on entrepreneurship. She speaks and writes about personal branding, authentic leadership, and the real emotional experience of being a founder. In this conversation, Marina brings her honesty, expertise, and fresh perspective to building a personal brand that truly reflects you. Quote/Piece of Advice: Have the courage to put yourself out there. Stand out, speak up, and be radically authentic. Connect with Marina: Website: www.brandofaleader.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bmarina/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marinabyezhanova/ https://www.instagram.com/brandofaleader/ To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect
#227
August 21 · 49 min
Functional Health, Gut Health & Stress w/ Jessica Van Antoine
In this episode What if burnout isn’t just mental or emotional—but physiological? In this episode of Real Chat with Kat, we dive into the connection between chronic stress, burnout, gut health, and the way our bodies respond when we’ve been running on empty for too long. We talk about the “fight or flight” response, how chronic stress can impact digestion, immunity, energy, focus, and overall well-being, and why finding the root cause matters. We also explore the powerful gut-brain connection, functional health and testing, electrolytes, and practical ways to better support your body. Jessica shares the concept of your body having a “bank account”—with healthy habits making deposits and chronic stress, poor sleep, and inflammation making withdrawals. When those withdrawals consistently outweigh the deposits, your body eventually becomes overdrawn. Meet my guest Jessica Van Antoine has been guiding people toward better health since 2009 through massage therapy, yoga, retreats, and now high-level health strategy. As a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner, she combines strategic lab testing with personalized coaching to uncover the hidden stressors that may be quietly impacting your health, energy, and ability to thrive. Jessica brings a deeply personal perspective to this work. After experiencing her own breaking point while working 90-hour weeks despite maintaining a healthy lifestyle, she discovered that burnout can go much deeper than mindset alone. Today, she helps people understand their unique biology and address root causes rather than relying on one-size-fits-all solutions. As Jessica says, “Your body isn’t the bottleneck. It’s the opportunity.” Quote/Piece of Advice: Your body has the innate intelligence to heal itself unless it does not have their resources. Connect with Jessica: LinkedIn, Website Adrenal Mocktail: https://phoenixfunctionalhealth.com/adrenal-mocktail-guide?utm_source=real_chat_with_kat&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=adrenal_mocktail&utm_content=show_notes To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect
#226
August 14 · 50 min
Stop Waiting for Motivation and Start Taking Action w/ Robyn Godfrey
In this episode What if you stopped waiting to feel motivated and simply started? In this episode of Real Chat with Kat, we dive into the powerful idea that meaningful change doesn’t have to begin with a giant leap—it can begin with just 30 seconds. We explore the 30-Second Method, building self-trust by keeping small promises to yourself, taking action before motivation arrives, and shifting from “I want to be” to “I am.” We also talk about comparison, community, identity, and what it really takes to keep moving forward when life doesn’t go according to plan. Meet my guest Robyn Godfrey is a TEDx speaker, keynote speaker, author, and creator of The 30-Second Shift™ methodology. After more than 20 years in corporate sales, Robyn decided to make a change. At 47, she started running with just 30 seconds on a treadmill—a tiny decision that eventually led her to complete all six World Marathon Majors and write her bestselling memoir, Running the World. Robyn’s journey is about so much more than running. Through hurricanes, a global pandemic, wildfires, an earthquake, and supporting her husband through Stage 4 throat cancer, she continued pursuing a goal that once seemed impossible. Her story is a powerful reminder that you don’t have to be naturally talented, perfectly prepared, or endlessly motivated to create extraordinary change. Sometimes, you just need to find your 30 seconds—and start. Quote/Piece of Advice: Find what your 30 seconds is. If you are wanting to accomplish a certain go or dream, you can totally do it. Connect with Robyn: Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Youtube Robyn's Book: https://www.amazon.com/Running-Runners-Odyssey-Struggle-Marathon/dp/B0F8T82X9L TEDx Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E1xUzBNJQgc&list=PLGGJ7mwdsniw To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect
#225
August 7 · 56 min
How to Use AI for Self-Awareness and Personal Growth w/ Diana Lee
In this episode What if AI wasn't meant to think for you—but to help you understand yourself better? In this episode of Real Chat with Kat, Diana Lee shares a refreshing perspective on using AI as a tool for self-reflection rather than a replacement for critical thinking. We explore how AI can help uncover unconscious patterns, clarify your values, and support personal growth when used with intention. This conversation is a powerful reminder that the greatest transformation isn't found in technology—it's found in how we choose to grow. Meet my guest Diana Lee is the founder of Waggle.ai, an advisor, educator, and entrepreneur who helps founders, leaders, and organizations navigate the intersection of AI, technology, and human potential. Her work empowers people to embrace change, build clarity, and use AI to amplify their authentic voice while staying grounded in their values. Quote/Piece of Advice: Give yourself permission to want a different kind of life and want something more. Connect with Diana: Website: https://waggle.ai Website: https://dianaleeai.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dianaleeai Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dianalee.ai To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect
#224
July 31 · 44 min
Replay Series | Stop living the Should Life: Be Fulfilled & Fabulous w/ Elle Ballard
In this episode, we explore what it truly means to live with intention and build a life that feels as good as it looks. Elle Ballard shares her remarkable journey from leading billion-dollar oil and gas projects to creating a thriving global community for multinational women entrepreneurs. Together, we discuss the power of conscious living, holistic life planning, embodiment practices like dance, and letting go of society's "shoulds" to make room for genuine fulfillment. This conversation is filled with practical tools, heartfelt wisdom, and powerful insights to help you align your personal and professional life while reconnecting with your purpose. Meet my guest: Elle Ballard is a powerhouse entrepreneur, speaker, and author who brings decades of international leadership experience into her mission to empower women across the globe. With members from over 23 countries, her Women of the World Network provides a unique space for women in business to thrive while embracing every part of who they are. Elle combines strategy, soul, and embodiment to help others create success that’s deeply aligned—and she’s on a mission to impact 50,000 women in the next five years. Her story and perspective will leave you inspired to pause, reflect, and take aligned action in your own life. Quote/Piece of Advice: Enrich your life and inspire others to do the same. Connect with Elle LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elleballard/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theelleballard Website: elleballard.com To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@katpolsinelli
#223
July 24 · 55 min
Replay Series | Meeting Purpose: Embracing Life’s Challenges for Spiritual Growth w/ Ann Jonas
🔁 REPLAY EPISODE We're bringing back one of our most impactful conversations! Whether you're listening for the first time or revisiting this episode, this replay is filled with timeless insights on purpose, healing, and personal transformation. In this episode, Kat sits down with Ann Jonas, also known as The Love Messenger, for a soul-stirring conversation about the spiritual journey we're all walking. Together, they explore how life's challenges—the "mud"—aren't obstacles to avoid, but invitations to grow. Ann shares how slowing down, embracing authenticity over perfection, and shifting from a victim mindset to a creator mindset can completely transform the way we experience life. Through vulnerability, presence, and a deeper connection with ourselves, we discover greater freedom, purpose, and inner peace. Meet my guest: Ann Jonas, also known as The Love Messenger, is the founder of The Lotus Path — a space devoted to guiding others back to their true, spiritual nature. With over 25 years of experience as an intuitive bodyworker and birth doula, Ann brings a grounded, holistic approach to healing and growth. Her work centers on helping people walk through life’s most difficult moments with grace, compassion, and curiosity, using them as catalysts for transformation. Through virtual offerings, one-on-one sessions, and her 9-week Sacred Connection program, Ann supports seekers ready to remember who they truly are. Quote/Piece of Advice: My job here, your job here is….the Joy Of Being. J.O.B. Connect with Ann: Youtube, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Website To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect
#222
July 17 · 40 min
Replay Series | Flip the Script: The Mindset Reset you Need w/ Todd Bertsch
🔁 REPLAY EPISODE Originally aired previously—back by popular demand. Some conversations are timeless, and this is one worth revisiting. Whether you're listening for the first time or returning for another listen, we hope this replay offers fresh insights and practical takeaways for your personal growth journey. In this episode I sit down with Todd Bertsch, a motivational speaker, entrepreneur, and positive intelligence coach, to dive into the transformative power of mindset shifts. We explore how positive intelligence can rewire your brain, helping you move from fear-based “saboteur” thinking to a more empowering “sage” perspective. Todd shares practical strategies for cultivating a growth mindset, building mental resilience, and finding opportunity in every situation. If you’ve ever felt stuck in negative thought patterns or reactive behaviors, this conversation is packed with actionable insights to help you break free and embrace a more positive, fulfilled life. Meet my guest: Todd Bertsch is a dynamic entrepreneur, keynote speaker, and life-optimization coach who has dedicated his career to helping individuals harness the power of positive intelligence. With a background in digital marketing and leadership, Todd has transformed not only his own life but also the lives of countless others through mindset coaching. After overcoming personal struggles with anger and emotional reactivity, Todd discovered the power of mental fitness and daily mindset practices. Now, he’s on a mission to help others shift their perspectives, find joy in the everyday, and create lasting, positive change. Quote/Piece of Advice: It’s all about Curiosity. If you can lean in, the lens through which you see, everything will change. Connect with Todd: Website, Linkedin, Facebook, Instagram The Bolt Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-bolt-podcast/id1464938492 To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect
#221
July 10 · 43 min
Replay Series | Healing Out Loud: The Truth on Growth, & Grace w/ Kat Polsinelli
🔁 REPLAY EPISODE We're bringing back this powerful solo episode because its message is just as meaningful today as when it first aired. In this episode, Kat explores what it truly means to heal out loud—with honesty, grace, and self-trust. Rather than striving for perfection or keeping struggles hidden, she encourages listeners to embrace the reality that healing is messy, nonlinear, and deeply personal. Kat shares why shame and isolation can keep us stuck, and how choosing honesty—even in small moments—creates validation, connection, and lasting growth. Through personal reflections and real-life examples, she explains how recognizing old patterns isn't a sign of failure but an opportunity to practice new responses and integrate what we've learned. The conversation also highlights the importance of setting healthy boundaries as you evolve, extending grace to yourself through imperfect progress, and celebrating even the smallest victories. You'll be invited to reflect on one truth you're ready to embrace and one truth you're ready to release as you continue your own healing journey. Whether you're listening for the first time or revisiting this episode, we hope it offers encouragement, perspective, and the reminder that healing doesn't have to be perfect—it simply has to be real. Quote/Piece of Advice: You don't have to heal alone, and you are not the only one trying to heal alone. To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect
#220
July 3 · 46 min
Replay Series | Unapologetically Authentic: Embracing Life’s Messy Journey w/ Jon Kohrs
In this deeply reflective episode, I reconnect with Jon Kohrs to explore his transformative journey of self-discovery, healing, and authenticity. Jon opens up about the courage it takes to peel back the layers of conditioning and face oneself fully, likening the process to a snake shedding its skin. We dive into the power of symbolism—falcons, lotuses, and hawks—as guides in personal growth, and discuss how these metaphors have shaped our perspectives. Jon shares insights from his upcoming book Horribly Lovely, where he reflects on fatherhood, relationships, and finding “home” within himself. Together, we emphasize the beauty in embracing every part of one’s journey, including past mistakes and struggles. Meet my guest: Jon Kohrs is a design coach, consultant, and author who helps individuals and corporate teams transform the way they work and live. Growing up on a small farm in Kansas with therapist parents, Jon developed a deep interest in organizing chaos and fostering growth—both in the external world and within himself. He uses the Enneagram in his coaching practice to guide teams and individuals through unlearning old patterns and embracing new, authentic ways of being. Jon’s writing weaves together spiritual and psychological narratives, offering raw, honest reflections on love, transformation, and the human experience. His upcoming book Horribly Lovely is a testament to his journey through personal struggles, fatherhood, and self-acceptance. Quote/Piece of Advice: Keep digging for your deepest story for that mythic tale. Let yourself be shattered….let yourself see what's the truth that's emerging inside of you. Connect with Jon: LinkedIn, Instagram, His Book To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect
#219
June 26 · 55 min
ADHD + Business Simplification w/ Angela Marie D'Antonio
In this episode of Real Chat with Kat, we dive into neurodivergence, ADHD in women, burnout, entrepreneurship, and the pressure of hustle culture. We explore how many women go undiagnosed for years due to internalized symptoms, often being labeled as anxious or overwhelmed, until life changes—like perimenopause—bring everything into focus. We also talk about urgency culture, social media overwhelm, and the belief that we are “behind” in life or business. This conversation opens the door to a different way of thinking: simplifying your business, trusting your natural rhythms, and using tools like journaling to create clarity instead of chaos. Meet my guest Angela is the creator of the Calm Ambition framework and works with neurodivergent founders and leaders to build businesses aligned with their strengths. Her work is rooted in strategy, education, and human performance, helping people move away from overwhelm and toward sustainable success. Her own journey into this work began while raising neurodivergent children, which later led to her own ADHD diagnosis in mid-life. Her message is simple but powerful: you are not broken—the ruler is. Quote/Piece of Advice: When you're constantly filtering noise, you can't ever hear that voice, that internal voice. Connect with Angela: LinkedIn, Website To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect
#218
June 19 · 50 min
Move Forward Despite Fear w/ Sabrina Shafer
In this episode Fear is something every single one of us experiences, yet most of us spend our lives trying to avoid it. In this powerful conversation, Kat sits down with Sabrina Shafer to explore a different perspective—what if fear isn't something to conquer, but something to learn from? Together, they discuss how fear can become a guide toward growth, confidence, and authenticity. From overcoming perfectionism and people-pleasing to building self-confidence through uncomfortable action, this episode dives into the mindset shifts that can transform the way you approach challenges. Sabrina shares her practical "Fear Forward" philosophy, while Kat reflects on her own journey of learning to embrace authenticity, celebrate others, and stop letting fear dictate her decisions. If you've ever felt stuck, afraid of judgment, or hesitant to take the next step toward something meaningful, this conversation will leave you inspired to move forward—even when fear comes along for the ride. Meet my guest Sabrina Shafer is an investor, entrepreneur, behavioral analyst, keynote speaker, and the creator of the Fear Forward framework. As a trusted advisor to Fortune 500 companies and a tech founder with multiple successful exits, Sabrina has built a career helping individuals and organizations navigate change, unlock growth, and lead with confidence. Known for her high-energy presentations, sharp humor, and science-backed approach, Sabrina specializes in simplifying complex human behaviors into actionable strategies that create real results. Through her Fear Forward philosophy, she empowers people to stop waiting until they're fearless and start taking action despite their fears—creating opportunities, growth, and transformation along the way. Her story, insights, and practical wisdom make this an unforgettable conversation for anyone ready to step outside their comfort zone and discover what's possible on the other side of fear. Quote/Piece of Advice: There might be something really awesome over here waiting for you if you're just willing to try, just willing to be scared and show up anyway. Connect with Sabrina: Website, Instagram, Youtube, LinkedIn To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect
#217
June 12 · 53 min
How to Create a Financial Plan That Actually Fits Your Life w/ Mike Milligan
In this episode This conversation dives into what it really means to create a financial plan built around your life—not a one-size-fits-all system. We talk about why traditional financial models often feel overwhelming and impersonal, and how shifting the focus to your unique story changes everything. Mike Milligan breaks down the difference between fiduciary responsibility and suitability, how AI can support (not replace) financial conversations, and why financial planning should be accessible at every stage of life. At the core, this episode is about clarity, empowerment, and redefining how we think about money and planning for the future. Meet my guest I’m joined by Mike Milligan, founder of 1.OAK Financial, with over 30 years of experience in the financial industry. Mike is passionate about simplifying finance and helping people build plans rooted in their “one-of-a-kind” lives. Inspired by lessons from his grandmother, Granny Elizabeth, his approach is deeply personal, transparent, and focused on impact over profit. In this conversation, he brings clarity, heart, and practical insight to an often confusing industry. Quote/Piece of Advice: You are one of a kind. You are unique. You're special. And when you realize that, you'll then determine you need a financial plan that matches that so your money can be put in motion, so you can go do the things you're called to and you're passionate about. So go make an impact. Connect with Mike LinkedIn, Instagram To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect
#216
June 5 · 55 min
Healing Trauma & Codependency Through Self-Awareness w/ Kaja Sokola
In this episode Kat sits down for a raw and deeply honest conversation about trauma, codependency, self-worth, healing, and the patterns that keep people stuck in toxic relationships. Together, Kat and Kaja explore how childhood experiences, family dynamics, fear, and unresolved emotional wounds can shape the relationships we choose and the way we see ourselves. This episode dives into the connection between trauma and the body, the importance of self-awareness in healing, and how breaking generational cycles starts with being brutally honest about our own motivations, fears, and internal struggles. Kat and Kaja also discuss parenting, emotional healing, and how personal growth can completely transform relationships with our children and ourselves. Meet my guest Kaja Sokola is a courageous survivor, advocate, and Harvey Weinstein accuser who testified against Weinstein during his New York criminal retrial. Despite the personal cost and public scrutiny, Kaja chose to speak her truth in order to give voice to survivors everywhere — especially young women who have felt silenced, unseen, or powerless. Through incredible vulnerability and strength, Kaja shares parts of her personal journey, including her early experiences in the modeling industry, surviving abuse, overcoming codependency, and learning how to heal through self-awareness and honesty. Her story is a powerful reminder that healing is possible, and that speaking your truth can help others feel less alone. Quote/Piece of Advice: Look in the mirror and try to be honest with yourself, all your deepest secrets. And once you're really honest with everything, tell yourself that you love yourself and that you're good and special and beautiful. Connect with Kaja Instagram, Website To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect
#215
May 29 · 50 min
Human Trafficking, Grooming & Trauma Recovery w/ Alicia Tappan
In this powerful conversation, I sit down with Alicia Tappan to talk about human trafficking, trauma, healing, and prevention. We unpack how trafficking often happens through grooming and manipulation—not just force—and why it can be so hidden in plain sight. Alicia breaks down the warning signs, the psychology behind exploitation, and why open communication is one of the most important tools for protecting children and breaking cycles of silence. We also explore healing and what it looks like to move from trauma into awareness, empowerment, and change. This episode is both eye-opening and deeply educational, offering real insight into how we can better protect and support one another. Meet my guest Alicia Tappan is a survivor, advocate, educator, and Founder & CEO of Survivor-Led Solutions, a nonprofit focused on human trafficking prevention and survivor-led leadership. After surviving trafficking at 17, she turned her experience into a mission to educate, empower, and create systemic change. She is also the author of Brave Girl Diaries and is currently pursuing her PhD in Forensic Psychology. Quote/Piece of Advice: We have to humanize humans, not objectify them. Connect with Alicia Instagram, Facebook, Website To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect
#214
May 22 · 57 min
Practical Tools for Healing, Boundaries & Inner Peace w/ Elle Sojourner
In this episode Part 2 with Elle Sojourner takes us into a powerful conversation around self-devotion, energy management, and what it really means to listen to your body before it forces you to stop. We explore practical, grounded tools you can use in everyday life to regulate your nervous system, shift your energy, and create more balance between your physical experience (3D) and your spiritual awareness (5D). From 5-minute rituals like humming and movement, to understanding how trauma can live in the body—especially the hips—this episode brings both science and spirituality together in a very real and applicable way. We also talk about anger as a signal, not something to suppress, and how unprocessed emotions can quietly impact both your mindset and your physical health over time. Meet my guest Elle Sojourner is a Certified Life Cycle Celebrant™, Soul Guide, Author, and Diviner who brings a deeply grounded yet spiritual approach to transformation and healing. She specializes in weaving ritual, behavioral science, and spiritual practice into meaningful tools that support real-life change. Through her work with Spirit Fire Life Ceremonies, Elle creates heart-centered ceremonies that honor life’s milestones with authenticity, love, and intention. In this conversation, she brings both wisdom and lived experience, offering practical ways to reconnect with yourself, release stored emotional energy, and step into a more aligned way of living. Quote/Piece of Advice: If you believe you can, you will. If you believe you can’t, you won’t. Connect with Elle Instagram, Facebook, https://bio.site/ElleSojourner To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect
#213
May 15 · 52 min
How to Stop People-Pleasing and Start Prioritizing Yourself w/ Kisha Woods
In this episode In this powerful conversation on Real Chat with Kat, we explore what it truly means to step out of a “season of default” and into a “season of discipline.” This episode dives deep into the patterns of people-pleasing, burnout, and self-neglect that so many women unconsciously live in—and what it actually takes to break free from them. We talk about the uncomfortable but necessary process of growth, including releasing old identities, setting boundaries, and learning to choose yourself without guilt. You’ll also hear how your values are not fixed, and why regularly re-evaluating them is essential for living a life that feels aligned, intentional, and fulfilling. Meet my guest Kisha Woods is a transformational mindset coach, author, speaker, and powerhouse entrepreneur dedicated to helping individuals break generational cycles and step into purpose-driven lives. As the Founder and CEO of Upgraded MindsetZ and owner of UPM Business Suites, Kisha creates spaces and tools that support deep personal and professional transformation. In this episode, Kisha shares her raw and honest journey through burnout, job loss, financial hardship, and emotional breakdown in 2020—and how that pivotal season became the catalyst for rebuilding her life from the inside out. Through self-reflection, journaling, and radical mindset reconditioning, she stepped into a new identity rooted in alignment, discipline, and authenticity. Her story is a powerful reminder that even the most painful seasons can become the beginning of your breakthrough. Quote/Piece of Advice: Be your unapologetic self. Do whatever it takes to get to that point. Understand it's not an overnight switch, but it is a journey that is so necessary. Connect with Kisha: Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Website To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect

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