She Flourishes with Brenda Jasmin

Brenda Jasmin
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Be inspired to show up in your life as the best version of YOU. The She Flourishes podcast is for women who want to go from feeling stuck to flourishing. You want to live to your full potential, but you need some inspiration to either get started, or to keep going after the life you want. Join your host, Mindset Coach Brenda Jasmin as she integrates her knowledge of positive psychology principles into the show. You’ll gain insights and inspiration from interviews with authors, positive psychology experts and women who are flourishing in their own lives.

  1. FEB 11

    149. Self-Affirmations: What the Science Actually Says

    Do affirmations actually work? Or are they just self-delusion dressed up as positivity? In this solo episode of The She Flourishes Podcast, Brenda Jasmin revisits affirmations through a science-backed lens. If you grew up in the 90s, you probably remember Stuart Smalley staring into a mirror on Saturday Night Live declaring, “I’m good enough, I’m smart enough, and doggone it, people like me.” It was funny, and it worked, because affirmations had already started to feel a little ridiculous. For years, motivational culture encouraged us to repeat bold statements like: “I’m healthy, wealthy and wise.” “Money is flowing to me in many ways.” “I am wildly successful.” “I am fearless.” But do affirmations actually work? In this episode, Brenda unpacks: -What the science really says about self-affirmations -Why some affirmations can actually make you feel worse -The 2009 research showing overly positive statements can backfire -Self-Affirmation Theory and how reflecting on core values protects self-integrity -A recent American Psychological Association study showing values-based affirmation exercises reliably increase well-being -A 2025 meta-analysis reviewing 180+ trials and 22,000+ participants demonstrating measurable improvements in psychological well-being And most importantly, how to upgrade affirmations so they actually support your growth. If you’re a woman over 40 redefining career, money, health, confidence, or purpose, this episode will show you how to shift from fantasy affirmations to identity-based affirmations that build self-trust and drive action. And when grounded in identity and action, they can strengthen self-trust and improve well-being. References mentioned in this episode: American Psychological Association. (2025). Self-affirmations can boost well-being. APA Press Release. https://www.apa.org/pubs/journals/releases/amp-amp0001591.pdf Zhang, Y., Chen, B., Hu, X., & Wang, M. (2025). The impact of self-affirmation interventions on well-being: A meta-analysis, American Psychologist. https://www.apa.org/pubs/journals/releases/amp-amp0001591.pdf Steele, C. M. (1988). The Psychology of Self-Affirmation (Self-Affirmation Theory). https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/chapter/bookseries/abs/pii/S0065260108602294 Wood, J. V., Perunovic, W. Q. E., & Lee, J. W. (2009). Positive self-statements: Power for some, peril for others. Psychological Science, 20(7), 860–866. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19493324/ Here’s how you can connect with Brenda Jasmin: Instagram: @_brendajasmin Website: www.brendajasmin.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendajasmin/ Download Brenda’s Gratitude Guide: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/gratitudeguide Get Brenda’s Guide on “How to Be Happier in Uncertain Times”: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/happier Original music composed by Leah Hidalgo www.leahhidalgo.com

    15 min

  2. FEB 4

    148. The Woo + The Wellbeing: Why Signs Can Actually Help You Flourish with Binu Dhindsa - A 2 B’s in a Pod Conversation

    Are signs and synchronicities real… or are we simply noticing what we’re primed to see? In this “Two B’a in a Pod” conversation, Brenda and her guest, Binu Dhindsa explore the intersection of science and spirituality…from the reticular activating system (RAS) and “magical thinking,” to feathers, repeating numbers, and those moments that feel like a wink from the universe. Whether you’re woo-curious or science-first, this episode offers a grounded way to think about signs: not as rules to follow, but as invitations to pause, go inward, and trust your next step. Loved This Episode? If this conversation sparked something in you, share it with a friend who’s woo-curious (or science-skeptical 😉). And if you’d like more “Two B’s in a Pod” episodes, leave a rating and review, it truly helps the show reach more women. Connect with My Co-Host: Binu DhindsaHost of High Vibes with Binu Listen to her podcast, High Vibes with Binu https://www.binu.ca/high-vibesFollow her on Instagram: @binudhindsa  Website: www.binu.ca Connect with Brenda Jasmin: Follow Brenda on Instagram: @_brendajasmin Get Brenda’s Guide on “How to Be Happier in Uncertain Times”: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/happier Website: www.brendajasmin.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendajasmin/ Original music composed by Leah Hidalgo www.leahhidalgo.com

    43 min

  3. JAN 28

    147. Flourishing When It’s Freezing Outside: How to Protect Your Mood and Wellbeing This Winter

    Winter in Canada can feel long, dark, and relentless…and when you add polar vortex temperatures, heavy snowfall, and limited daylight, it’s no wonder many of us start to feel the winter heaviness. In this episode, Brenda shares compassionate, practical ways to support your mood, energy, and nervous system during deep winter, without toxic positivity or unrealistic expectations. This is not about “loving winter” or pretending it’s easy. It’s about learning how to be kinder to yourself, work with your body, and create small pockets of warmth, light, and connection that make the season more manageable, and even gently nourishing. You’ll hear about simple science-backed strategies, insights from Scandinavian cultures, and realistic ideas you can experiment with right now. In this episode, we explore: -Why winter heaviness, tiredness, and low mood are normal -How daylight (not just sunshine) impacts mood and circadian rhythm -Easy ways to increase light exposure in your home -The power of gentle morning movement -Creating consistency with sleep in darker months -Working with your natural energy rhythms -Why 15 minutes of connection can make a real difference -The concept of "hygge" and creating cozy on purpose -Nourishing your body with warm, comforting foods -Friluftsliv (outdoor living) and embracing small amounts of fresh air If winter tends to feel heavy for you, this episode offers gentle reminders and doable ideas to help you move through the season with more steadiness, warmth, and self-compassion. Resources mentioned in this episode: Charles Duhigg, Jan. 2, 2026 Newsletter, The Science of Better: “It’s Really Cold. Here’s How to Stay Happy (With Science)”  Charles Duhigg’s book: Smarter, Faster, Better: The Transformative Power of Real Productivity (Please note that I mistakenly referred to this book as The Science of Better, but that’s the name of his newsletter). You can order his book here: Indigo: https://www.indigo.ca/en-ca/smarter-faster-better-the-transformative-power-of-real-productivity/9780385680936.html?searchType=products&searchTerm=Smarter%20Faster%20Bett Amazon: https://a.co/d/0ZCKqPu Here’s how you can connect with Brenda Jasmin: Instagram: @_brendajasmin Website: www.brendajasmin.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendajasmin/ Download Brenda’s Gratitude Guide: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/gratitudeguide Get Brenda’s Guide on “How to Be Happier in Uncertain Times”: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/happier Original music composed by Leah Hidalgo www.leahhidalgo.com

    17 min

  4. JAN 21

    146. When Life Tests Everything: A Story of Resilience, Healing, and the Gift of Life with Jenn Dinis

    Content Note: This episode contains discussion of serious illness, medical trauma, stroke, coma, and organ transplantation. While this is ultimately a story of hope, resilience, and healing, some listeners may find parts of the journey emotionally intense. Please check in with yourself and listen in a way that feels supportive for you. In today’s deeply moving episode of the She Flourishes Podcast, I sit down with my friend Jenn Dinis to share her extraordinary story of resilience, hope, and the power of the human spirit. Jenn’s journey spans decades…from being diagnosed with diabetes as a teenager, to kidney failure, years on dialysis, multiple setbacks, a stroke and coma, and finally the life-changing call that led to her kidney transplant. Along the way, she faced unimaginable uncertainty, heartbreak, and fear, yet never let go of hope. This is a story about waiting. About fighting when you’re exhausted. About the people who carry you when you feel like you can’t go on. And about the profound gift of organ donation…a gift that saves lives. Jenn shares what it was like to live on dialysis, to wait for “the call,” to experience false alarms, to survive a stroke, and to finally receive the kidney that saved her life. She also opens up about survivor’s guilt, writing to her donor’s family, and how this journey has changed her forever. Most of all, this is a story of courage, and a reminder that even in our darkest seasons, hope is still possible. ✨ In this episode, we talk about: Jenn’s long journey with diabetes and kidney disease Life on dialysis and what it means to depend on a machine to stay alive The emotional rollercoaster of waiting for a transplant False alarms and heartbreak along the way Surviving a stroke and coma The life-changing transplant call The miracle of organ donation Survivor’s guilt and writing to her donor’s family Healing, gratitude, and finding meaning after trauma What keeps us going when life feels unbearable If you or someone you love is facing illness, uncertainty, or a difficult season, this conversation is for you. Jenn’s story is a powerful reminder that you are stronger than you think, and that even after the longest, hardest road, new beginnings are possible. About Organ Donation If Jenn’s story has inspired you to learn more about becoming an organ donor, I’ve included information in the show notes about how to register in Ontario and how to talk to your family about your wishes. Register to become a donor or check your registration status:  https://beadonor.ca/ Paired exchange kidney donation program:  Kidney paired donation is a program that matches transplant candidates with suitable living donors. It gives people the chance to become a living kidney donor while ensuring that someone they want to help receives a needed kidney, even if they are not a direct match. https://www.blood.ca/en/organs-tissues/living-organ-donation/kidney-paired-donation Here’s how you can connect with Brenda Jasmin: Email: brenda@bjasmin.com Instagram: @_brendajamin https://www.instagram.com/_brendajasmin/ Website: www.brendajasmin.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendajasmin/ Original music for She Flourishes podcast composed by Leah Hidalgo www.leahhidalgo.com

    1h 10m

  5. JAN 14

    145. Ease Into 2026: Rebuilding, Resilience, and Giving Yourself Grace

    Happy 2026 and welcome back to the She Flourishes podcast. In this solo episode, Brenda hops on the mic for a cozy, free-flow conversation about what it really feels like to begin a new year in midlife without pressure, perfection, or the “new year, new you” hustle. Brenda reflects on the shift she’s noticing in New Year messaging, away from fixing ourselves and toward easing in with compassion, intention, and grace. She shares a personal update on her health journey, what she learned from losing and regaining weight, and how she’s embracing the idea of “rebuilding” rather than starting over. You’ll also hear about: • Why January doesn’t need to be a full sprint • How self-compassion creates more motivation than self-criticism • What rebuilding your health, strength, and confidence can look like • The power of staying active as we age • Why it’s not too late to go after what you love • Lessons from skiing at 55 alongside 80-year-old athletes • The mindset that keeps us moving forward instead of shrinking our lives If you’re feeling tired after the holidays, behind on your goals, or unsure how you want this year to look, this episode is your permission slip to slow down, reflect, and listen to what your heart really wants. Because 2026 doesn’t need to start with pressure. It can start with intention, courage, and joy. Grab a cup of tea and join Brenda for a gentle, encouraging conversation to begin the year feeling grounded, inspired, and hopeful. If you’re ready to design a life you love in 2026 and want support along the way, Brenda shares how you can work with her one-on-one as your life coach. Just send her an email at brenda@bjasmin.com Resources mentioned in this episode: She Flourishes Episodes on Goal-Setting and Habits: Episode 116. Tiny Habits, Big Results https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/9nVNV98fSZb Episode 102. Crush Your 2025 Goals with Caroline Adams Miller https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/lld85tegSZb She Flourishes Episode with Martha Munroe: 144. Breaking Free from Diet Culture: A New Approach to Exercise with Martha Munroe https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/uG3T3uO3HZb Here’s how you can connect with Brenda Jasmin: Instagram: @_brendajasmin Website: www.brendajasmin.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendajasmin/ Download Brenda’s Gratitude Guide: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/gratitudeguide Get Brenda’s Guide on “How to Be Happier in Uncertain Times”: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/happier Original music composed by Leah Hidalgo www.leahhidalgo.com

    22 min

  6. JAN 7

    144. Breaking Free from Diet Culture: A New Approach to Exercise with Martha Munroe

    What if your relationship with exercise could feel gentler, kinder, and deeply connected…instead of driven by shame, comparison, or perfectionism? If exercise has ever felt like a “should,” a struggle, or something you use to fix your body, this episode will feel like a breath of fresh air. In this powerful and heartfelt conversation, I’m joined by Martha Munroe, coach, researcher, and author of Attuned Exercise, to explore how so many women have absorbed messages that our bodies are “projects to be fixed” … and how we can finally begin to trust, listen to, and reconnect with our bodies again. Martha shares how cultural conditioning, diet culture, and self-objectification shape our relationship with movement, and how cultivating positive embodiment and self-compassion can transform the way we move, exercise, and experience our bodies across our lifetime. This conversation will speak deeply to you if you’ve ever felt like exercise is something you “should” do, rather than something that brings joy, aliveness, and connection. Listen in as we invite you to reclaim movement from shame, hustle and perfectionism, and begin moving from compassion and attunement instead. This episode is especially for you if: exercise has ever felt like punishment or obligation you grew up around diet culture or body-image pressure you want a healthier, more compassionate relationship with movement you’re in midlife and noticing your body asking to be treated differently ✨ SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: JOIN US LIVE! I’m so excited to share that Martha and I are hosting an Attuned Exercise Book Club + Live Meet-the-Author Q&A on Zoom on Thursday, January 29 at 7pm ET! 🎁 When you join, you’ll receive: ✔ access to the live book club + Q&A ✔ a downloadable Attuned Exercise reading guide ✔ a supportive space to reflect, learn, and ask Martha your questions All for just $22 💛 👉 Save your spot via the link below. We would love to have you with us. https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/checkout/bookclub About Martha Munroe, MSc Martha Munroe is the author of the book Attuned Exercise, a book about reclaiming movement from shame, hustle and perfectionism and building a deeper, more sustainable relationship with your body. Martha brings together 20 years of fitness experience with a master’s in Applied Positive Psychology and Coaching Psychology. She has published research on embodiment in peer-reviewed journals and has supported hundreds of people in reconnecting with exercise and their own personal development. Here’s how you can connect with Martha Munroe: Book: Attuned Exercise (https://a.co/d/6zyuqJI) Instagram: @attunedexercise LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/martha-munroe-882bb21b9/ Newsletter + resources: attunedexercise.com Here’s how you can connect with Brenda Jasmin: Instagram: @_brendajasmin Website: www.brendajasmin.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendajasmin/ Download Brenda’s Gratitude Guide: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/gratitudeguide Get Brenda’s Guide on “How to Be Happier in Uncertain Times”: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/happier Original music composed by Leah Hidalgo www.leahhidalgo.com

    1h 4m

  7. 12/17/2025

    143. Boundaries are Sexy: How to Stop People-Pleasing (So You Don’t Burn Out) with Binu Dhindsa, Two B’s in a Pod Episode

    Feeling overcommitted or stretched thin as the holidays approach? Brenda is joined by her friend and colleague Binu Dhindsa for a “Two B’s in a Pod” episode, where they have an honest, reflective conversation about people-pleasing, boundaries, and why being “busy” is not a badge of honour. This episode invites you to notice where over-giving, over-committing, and fear of disappointing others may be draining your energy, especially during the holidays. Brenda and Binu explore how small, self-honouring shifts can help you protect your peace so you don’t arrive at December 31st feeling burned out. Toward the end of the episode, you’ll be guided through a gentle reflection…an invitation you can carry with you through the season…to help you feel more grounded, intentional, and supported. In this episode, we talk about: Why the word “busy” can feel loaded (and what it often really means) How people-pleasing shows up in everyday life, especially for women The invisible workload many women carry Why boundaries aren’t harsh or selfish, they’re self-honouring How social media can distort what “full” or “successful” really looks like Small boundary shifts that help protect your energy Why awareness and permission matter more than perfection A simple reflection to help you move through the holidays without burning out Connect with My Co-Host: Binu Dhindsa Host of High Vibes with Binu Listen to her podcast, High Vibes with Binu https://www.binu.ca/high-vibes Follow her on Instagram: @binudhindsa  Website: www.binu.ca Connect with Brenda Jasmin: Follow Brenda on Instagram: @_brendajasmin Get Brenda’s Guide on “How to Be Happier in Uncertain Times”: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/happier Website: www.brendajasmin.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendajasmin/ Original music composed by Leah Hidalgo www.leahhidalgo.com

    36 min

  8. 12/10/2025

    142. Krista’s Search for a Kidney: A Story of Resilience, Courage and Holding Onto Hope

    How do you stay hopeful when your life turns upside down? In this raw, compassionate conversation, sisters Krista Merkley and Laurie Bruce open up about polycystic kidney disease (PKD), stage 5 kidney failure, the search for a living donor, and the real work of holding on to hope. We talk about what resilience really looks like, not the everyday version, but the kind you find when you’re facing 10% kidney function, dialysis waiting in the wings, and learning to ask for help, even when it’s hard to find the courage to do so. Krista shares how she navigates fear, fatigue, grief, and uncertainty…with radical acceptance, gratitude, and humour (yes…including an orange cat who always knows when to cuddle). Her sister, Laurie, shares the emotional side of watching someone you love go through something you can’t fix. This is a story of resilience, not because everything is okay, but because they keep showing up anyway. If you’ve ever faced something you didn’t choose and wondered how to keep hoping, this episode will meet you right where you are. Content Note: This episode includes discussion of chronic illness and kidney failure. It’s a tender, emotional conversation, so please check in with yourself and listen in a way that feels supportive for you. Meet My Guests: Krista Merkley and Laurie Bruce Krista Merkley is a South Huron, Ontario resident whose journey with Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) has recently progressed to Stage 5 kidney failure. With her kidney function now critically low, she is actively searching for a living donor and sharing her story, not only for herself, but to highlight the many Canadians hoping for the same chance at restored health. Despite the physical and emotional demands of her condition, Krista continues to work in the learning and development field, bringing the same steady resilience into her professional life that she carries through life. At www.Kidney4Krista.com, Krista shares her experience with openness, humility, and a quiet determination that has resonated widely. Her mission extends far beyond finding her own donor - she aims to demystify living kidney donation, foster informed conversation, and help others understand the meaningful impact one donor can make. Krista’s story is ultimately about resilience, community, and the hope that when people are informed, they’re better equipped to take thoughtful, courageous action. Laurie Bruce is Krista’s sister. Unable to donate herself, Laurie has embraced the role of advocate, helping to share Krista’s story, build understanding, and make learning about living kidney donation feel accessible rather than intimidating.  Laurie invites others to “be part of the team” by helping to share Krista’s story, learning more about the urgent need for living kidney donors in Canada. Connect with Krista & Learn More: Ask confidential questions or explore becoming a donor:  London Health Sciences Center  1-519-663-3552  - no obligation, just information. Learn more about Krista, PKD or Living Kidney Donation: www.kidney4krista.com Connect with Krista on social media:  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/kidney4krista.ca/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/p/Kidney4Krista-61555401882150/ Watch, Like and Share the short documentary on living donation featuring Krista and anonymous donor Wency: A Big Ask ? Paired exchange kidney donation program:   https://www.blood.ca/en/organs-tissues/living-organ-donation/kidney-paired-donation • Register to become a donor or check your registration status: https://beadonor.ca/ If this episode touched your heart, please help us to increase awareness and share Krista’s story. Every share helps. 💛 Here’s how you can connect with Brenda Jasmin: Email: brenda@bjasmin.com Instagram: @_brendajamin https://www.instagram.com/_brendajasmin/ Website: www.brendajasmin.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendajasmin/ Original music for She Flourishes podcast composed by Leah Hidalgo www.leahhidalgo.com

    1h 5m
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Be inspired to show up in your life as the best version of YOU. The She Flourishes podcast is for women who want to go from feeling stuck to flourishing. You want to live to your full potential, but you need some inspiration to either get started, or to keep going after the life you want. Join your host, Mindset Coach Brenda Jasmin as she integrates her knowledge of positive psychology principles into the show. You’ll gain insights and inspiration from interviews with authors, positive psychology experts and women who are flourishing in their own lives.

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