That's What She Said

Amanda

Step into a space of clarity, connection, and soulful insight. On [Podcast Name], I offer intuitive tarot readings for guests, where the wisdom of the cards meets the energy of transformation. Each episode dives deep into the messages that flow through, bringing meaningful guidance for my guests and inspiration for listeners. But it’s more than just readings — this podcast is a heartfelt journey into intuition, spirituality, and the beautiful chaos of real life. As a mother, wife, and fierce advocate for justice and freedom for all beings, I blend honest conversations about family, empowerment, and purpose with the magic of spiritual exploration. Tune in for episodes that nourish your soul, ignite your intuition, and remind you that you’re never alone on your path

  1. 1d ago

    Episode 27: Why Politics Is the Most Spiritual Thing I’ve Ever Done

    Send us Fan Mail What if getting involved in politics isn't the opposite of spirituality? What if it can actually be a spiritual practice? In this episode of That's What She Said, I get personal about why local politics and civic engagement have unexpectedly become such an important part of my spiritual journey. I've spent much of my life thinking about healing, energy, yoga, Reiki, and creating peace. And yet, I've come to realize that protecting my own peace isn't enough. There is a part of me that feels called to show up for people who don't always have the privilege, resources, or voice to advocate for themselves. And that calling goes all the way back to childhood. I share the story of why I wanted to be Mother Teresa as a little girl, what happened when I eventually learned about the complicated controversies surrounding her legacy, and what that experience taught me about holding two truths at the same time: that someone can inspire us deeply while still being human, flawed, and worthy of scrutiny. Because maybe our job isn't to know whether our actions will "work." Maybe our job is simply to ask: What is mine to do? I also talk about the guilt I've felt when I couldn't attend every protest or participate in every way I wanted to—and how I've come to see this podcast itself as a form of civic engagement. Creating space for people to tell their stories, asking questions, staying curious, and encouraging others to participate are all ways of showing up. And then I share something that surprised me: Watching my local school board and town meetings has actually given me hope. When the national political landscape feels overwhelming, there's something incredibly grounding about watching people in your own community sit around a table, disagree, listen, reassess, and work toward the common good. Sometimes it's not glamorous. Sometimes it's downright boring. But there are adults in the room. And maybe we need to remember that. In this episode, we talk about: Why I wanted to be Mother Teresa as a childThe complicated legacy of Mother Teresa and what it taught me about heroesWhy service and compassion have always been central to my worldviewThe guilt of having a comfortable life while other people are strugglingWhy I believe privilege comes with a responsibility to careLearning to act without attachment to the outcomeWhy criticism and disagreement have humbled meThe importance of being willing to say, "I didn't know that"Why this podcast has become my own form of civic participationWhat I've learned from watching local school board and town meetingsTechnology, phones, and finding balance for our childrenLocal budgets, property taxes, grants, and the surprisingly fascinating world of town governmentWhy zooming in on our own communities can give us hope when the national picture feels overwhelmingFinding your own way to serveA question for you: What is yours to do? You don't have to change the entire world. You don't have to attend every protest or have all the answers. But where are you being called to show up? Maybe it's a town meeting. Maybe it's your child's school. Maybe it's volunteering. Maybe it's having a difficult conversation. Maybe it's simply paying attention. I'd love to hear what your version of showing up looks like. Continue the work with me If you're feeling called to turn inward and explore your own healing, I have several opportunities coming up: Reiki I — September 12–13 Learn the foundations of Reiki with a focus on self-Reiki and self-healing. Reiki I — October 10–11 Another opportunity to begin your Reiki journey and develop a deeper relationship with your own energy. Weekly Healing Circles — Thursdays in September | 6:30–7:30 PM A space to slow down, connect, breathe, and heal in community. Women's Witch Retreat — September 25–27 | Salem & Rockport, MA Only 2 spots remain for this intimate weekend of ritual, yoga, magic, connection, and intention-setting. Find all upcoming events and registration information at Amanda Bryan Therapy. Keep showing up. Keep asking questions. Keep listening. Keep learning. And remember: You don't have to change the entire world. You just have to be willing to care about the part of it that's right in front of you. Support the show

  2. Aug 2

    Episode 26: The First Step Nobody Talks About: Answering The Civic Duty Call

    Send us Fan Mail What if making a difference in your community starts with something much smaller than running for office? In this episode of That's What She Said, Amanda sits down with her first guest in this new series exploring the intersection of community, democracy, and civic engagement. Kaitlyn is a longtime volunteer, parent advocate, and elected budget committee member who shares how one seemingly small issue—trying to make an inclusive playground truly accessible—sparked a journey into local politics and community leadership. Together, Amanda and Kaitlyn discuss what it really looks like to become involved in your town, why local government matters more than most people realize, and how ordinary people can make an extraordinary impact simply by paying attention and speaking up. This conversation isn't about being a political expert. It's about finding the courage to use your voice. In this episode, we explore: How one accessibility issue became the catalyst for civic engagementWhy local politics affects our daily lives more than we often realizeThe surprising power of attending your first town or school board meetingMoving beyond self-doubt and learning to trust your voiceAdvocating for public education and inclusive communitiesWhy courage grows every time we choose to participateThe importance of community over complacencyHow civic engagement can become part of your spiritual practiceOne of Kaitlyn's biggest takeaways: "The more I'm willing to use my voice—as rambly, vulnerable, and awkward as I am—the more I'm giving others the courage to do the same."Amanda also reflects on listening to her own local school board meeting for the first time and realizing something unexpected: despite political differences, there are still adults showing up, listening, debating, and working toward solutions together. The episode closes with a tarot reading that beautifully mirrors Kaitlyn's journey of transformation—from personal hardship to meaningful service—and reminds us that new beginnings often emerge from the moments that challenge us the most. Resources Mentioned Five Calls – Find your representatives and make your voice heard: https://5calls.orgNH Deserves Better – Learn about New Hampshire candidates and legislation: https://nhdeservesbetter.comNew Hampshire Bridge Brigade for Democracy – Find peaceful community actions and bridge events: https://nhbbd.orgConnect with Amanda Visit Amanda Bryan Therapy for retreats, Reiki trainings, yoga classes, and upcoming events: https://www.amandabryantherapy.com If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs the reminder that their voice matters. Because democracy isn't something we watch. It's something we practice. Support the show

  3. Jul 13

    Episode 25: The Perfect. Marriage: Why We don’t Have To Choose

    Send us Fan Mail ABOUT THIS EPISODE In this episode, Amanda explores the theory that the healthiest societies — like the healthiest bodies — require integration, not opposition. Drawing on her identity crisis during COVID, her 14 years as a holistic practitioner, and her roots in New Hampshire, she makes the case for a 'beautiful marriage' between market economies and strong social investment — and gives listeners a concrete, week-by-week civic action plan specific to NH. Runtime: ~35–40 minutes TOPICS COVERED IN THIS EPISODE The identity crisis of COVID — and why the 'burn it all down' response isn't the prescriptionThe false binary between capitalism and socialism — and who benefits from that framingPost-WWII America and the conditions that actually created the middle classWhat Norway, Denmark, and Germany actually look like — and what 'social democracy' really meansNew Hampshire's specific political landscape: the housing crisis, mental health access gap, school funding inequity, and the Free State ProjectA week-by-week civic action plan designed specifically for NH residentsHow the wellness and healing community can step into civic leadership NH CIVIC RESOURCES — START HERE Find Your Legislators Find Your NH State Representative — gencourt.state.nh.us/house/members — Select your town to find your rep and their contact info Find Your NH State Senator — gencourt.state.nh.us/senate/members — Select your town to find your senator NH General Court (full legislature site) — gencourt.state.nh.us — Track bills, committee hearings, and the legislative calendar Organizations Worth Knowing NH Listens — nhlistens.org — Nonpartisan civic dialogue initiative at UNH. A safe, structured way to start engaging across differences. Open Democracy NH — opendemocracynh.org — Focused on campaign finance reform, voting rights, and government transparency. Nonpartisan 501(c)(3). Granite State Progress — granitestateprogress.org — Progressive policy advocacy and communications hub covering education, healthcare, gun safety, and more. NH Progressive Source List (comprehensive org directory) — A full alphabetical list of NH advocacy organizations compiled by Granite State Progress — find the issue area that calls to you. League of Women Voters of New Hampshire — lwvnh.org — Nonpartisan voter empowerment organization with local chapters across NH. Current Issues to Watch in NH These are the live issues where citizen voices are actively moving the needle right now: Workforce housing legislation — bipartisan urgency, real momentumMental health system reform — NH is under legislative pressure over psychiatric access gapsMedicaid expansion — NH expanded it, but it comes up for renewal; showing up mattersSchool funding equity reform — a long fight but a generational one worth joiningVoting rights — Open Democracy NH recently won a landmark federal case blocking restrictive voter registration law HB 1569 YOUR WEEK-BY-WEEK CIVIC WELLNESS PLAN Treat this like a new practice. Small, consistent action creates real change — in a body and in a community. Week 1: Find out who your NH state rep is at gencourt.state.nh.us/house/members. Just learn their name.Week 2: Sign up for one local organization's newsletter (NH Listens, Open Democracy NH, or Granite State Progress).Week 3: Attend one public meeting — selectmen, school board, or city council. Just watch. It will demystify everything.Month 2: Write one email or call your state rep about an issue you care about. NH legislators respond.Month 3: Bring one person with you. Healing happens in community. So does civic change. BOOKS MENTIONED & RECOMMENDED Political Economy & History The Great Transformation by Karl Polanyi — the foundational argument that unregulated markets destroy the social fabric they depend onA Theory of Justice by John Rawls — the philosophical case for a just society built on fairness, not just freedomStrangers in Their Own Land by Arlie Hochschild — essential reading for understanding the divide with empathy rather than judgment For Understanding What Works Elsewhere The Nordic Secret by Lene Rachel Andersen & Tomas Björkman — how Scandinavian countries built both prosperity and social trustWinner-Take-All Politics by Jacob Hacker & Paul Pierson — the documented story of how US policy shifted toward the wealthy over 40 years CONNECT WITH AMANDA Website: amandabryantherapy.comStudio: SoNew Yoga, Merrimack, NHPodcast: That's What She Said — available wherever you listenIf this episode resonated, share it with someone who's frustrated but doesn't know where to start. That's who this was for. Support the show

  4. Mar 4

    Episode 24: What Is Reiki?

    Send us Fan Mail Have you ever been in a country where you don’t speak the language — and somehow still got your point across? That’s energy healing. You’re already doing it. Reiki just teaches you to speak it fluently. In this episode, we’re diving deep into one of my most passionate topics: **Reiki.** What it actually is, what the science says, and why I believe this practice belongs in every single person’s life. Whether you’re brand new to the concept or you’ve been curious for years, this one’s for you. I’m also sharing details about my upcoming **April 11th & 12th Reiki trainings** — and why I think you should be there What We Cover - The analogy that finally makes Reiki *click* — think: traveling abroad, language barriers, and a 603 area code - What Reiki actually is — the history, the Japanese roots, and how it works - The science behind energy healing (yes, there are real studies — we go there) - **Reiki I vs. Reiki II:** what each level is really about and why we never rush the process - Why you might already be doing energy healing without knowing it - The truth about energetic transference — and why training protects you - Myth-busting: Does it require belief? Is it religious? Can you hurt someone? - The 5 Reiki Principles — a simple daily practice that can shift everything Science & Studies Mentioned - Research on **electromagnetic fields emitted from practitioners’ hands** — measured in the same frequency range (0.3–30 Hz) used by medical PEMF devices - **2019 meta-analysis** in the *Journal of Evidence-Based Integrative Medicine* — Reiki shown more effective than placebo for pain, anxiety, fatigue, and mood - **2010 study** in the *Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine* — Reiki produced significant reductions in anxiety and improvements in heart rate variability - The **NIH National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health** recognizes Reiki research - Reiki programs at **Yale, Johns Hopkins, and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center**  Upcoming Reiki Trainings I would love to see you in person this April. These are small, intimate trainings — you’ll receive your attunement, practice with the group, and leave with a manual and a practice you can use that same night. **Reiki I — Self Healing**  April 11th + April 12th *Perfect for beginners. No experience needed. This level is all about you — learning to practice Reiki on yourself for healing, grounding, and self-care.* REGISTER HERE  Questions? Just DM me — I mean it. I’d rather answer a hundred questions than have you talk yourself out of something that could change your life. Connect With Me - Instagram: @amandabryantherapy - Website: https://www.amandabryantherapy.com/ - Email: amanda@amandabryantherapy.com Support the show

  5. Jan 31

    Episode 23: Collective Trauma, Self-Healing, and Returning to Humanity

    Send us Fan Mail We are not living in normal times—and your body knows it. In this episode, Amanda explores collective trauma: what it is, why so many of us feel anxious, reactive, or exhausted, and how prolonged stress impacts the nervous system and our sense of safety. This conversation is an invitation to slow down, come back into the body, and take responsibility for our own healing in the most loving, compassionate way. Through personal stories, energetic insight, and grounded spiritual wisdom, Amanda shares how what we see on the outside is often a reflection of what’s happening within, why self-healing practices like Reiki matter more than ever, and how tending to our own energy is an act of both personal and collective care. This episode also explores the role of selfless service—a core teaching found across ancient traditions—as a path back to meaning, connection, and true happiness. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure how to stay human in an inhumane world, this episode is for you. In This Episode, We Explore: What collective trauma is and how it shows up in daily lifeWhy so many people feel on edge, anxious, or emotionally raw right nowHow trauma lives in the body—not just the mindThe connection between energy, personal responsibility, and lived experienceWhy Reiki and self-healing practices help regulate the nervous systemHow embodiment supports healing during uncertain timesThe role of selfless service in restoring meaning and connectionWhy returning to our roots—community, ritual, presence, humanity—mattersKey Takeaways: You are not broken—you are responding normally to abnormal conditionsHealing doesn’t require fixing yourself, but listening to yourselfNervous system regulation is essential in times of collective stressWhat we tend internally shapes how we experience the external worldActs of compassion and service are powerful medicine—for ourselves and othersResources & Offerings Mentioned: Reiki & self-healing practicesEmbodiment and nervous system regulationOngoing workshops and healing spaces with Amanda  (Details shared at the end of the episode)Reflection Prompt for Listeners: Where in your life are you being invited to slow down, come back into your body, and take loving responsibility for your own well-being? Closing Reminder: Healing the collective begins with tending the self—gently, honestly, and with compassion. Learn More about Lucy and Violet: https://violetleclaire.com/ Support the show

  6. 12/03/2025

    Episode 22: Raising Intuitive Kids: Spirituality Beyond Religion

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Amanda dives into one of the most common questions she hears from parents: “If we don’t practice a religion… what do we teach our kids about life, death, intuition, and meaning?” Whether you’re spiritual-but-not-religious, deconstructing old beliefs, or simply wanting to raise emotionally intelligent, intuitive children in a grounded way — this episode will give you clarity, language, and confidence. Amanda explores the developmental psychology behind intuitive children, how to talk about spirituality without fear or dogma, and how nature can become a family’s greatest teacher. She shares personal stories from her own children, practical tools for grounding intuitive kids, and guidance on breaking your own inherited religious fear cycle. This is a warm, grounding episode filled with wisdom, real-life examples, and permission to let your child trust themselves.  IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN: The developmental stages that support spiritual opennessWhy kids are naturally connected to intuition, energy, and symbolismHow adults unintentionally close that channel How to talk to kids when you don’t follow a religion Explaining beliefs using the “paths on a mountain” metaphorTeaching children all belief systems instead of choosing oneEncouraging kids to trust what resonates with their soul Nature & love as a spiritual foundation How Amanda uses gardening, seasons, and cycles to teach her children about life and deathReal conversations Amanda has had with her kids about grief, heaven, and reincarnationWhat psychology says about children’s spirituality How kids understand big concepts before age 12Why imagination, symbolism, and sensory experience help them feel safeHow to support spiritual development without indoctrinationPractical tools for grounding intuitive kids Language to normalize intuitionSupporting kids who sense energy or feel other people’s emotionsHow to respond when they say they’re scared or “felt something” Breaking your own fear cycle How your religious upbringing affects your parentingMoving from fear-based to curiosity-based spiritualityGiving kids permission to evolve their beliefs over timeA guided grounding moment (perfect to replay with your kids!)  27:00 – Guided grounding practice RESOURCES & LINKS FROM THE EPISODEBooks Mentioned: Eve: How the Female Body Drove 200 Million Years of Human Evolution — Cat Bohannon https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/706822/eve-by-cat-bohannon/ Who Cooked the Last Supper? The Women’s History of the World — Rosalind Miles https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/117073/who-cooked-the-last-supper-by-rosalind-miles/ Amanda’s Yoga Studio + Offerings: https://www.amandabryantherapy.com https://www.sonewyoga.com ENJOYING THE PODCAST?If this episode supported you, please share it with another intuitive parent or someone raising children in this new era of consciousness. Your shares help this show grow and help other families feel seen, supported, and empowered. Support the show

  7. 09/04/2025

    Episode 20: Lilith Rising — Women Reclaiming Power

    Send us Fan Mail Welcome back to That’s What She Said! In this episode, I dive into what I’m calling the Lilith Era—a time when women are no longer shrinking into “little lady” stereotypes, but reclaiming our power as creators, leaders, and warriors. We’ll explore:  ✨ Who Lilith really was—and why her story was rewritten to demonize feminine power.  ✨ The biology of women’s strength, endurance, and emotional intelligence under pressure.  ✨ Historical and modern societies that flourished under female leadership.  ✨ The myth of “fragile, emotional women” vs. the reality of emotional intelligence in leadership.  ✨ Real examples of women warriors—from Vikings to the Dahomey Amazons to resistance fighters.  ✨ How reclaiming feminine energy could rebalance politics, culture, and community today. I’ll also share personal reflections on strength, community, and what it means to truly step into your Lilith energy. Resources & References 📚 Books Rosalind Miles, Who Cooked the Last Supper? The Women’s History of the World Cat Bohannon, Eve: How the Female Body Drove 200 Million Years of Human Evolution 📰 Articles & Research Washington Post – Why women may be stronger than you think Harvard Business Review – Research: Women are better leaders during a crisis PMC Study – Stress and decision-making: gender differences Duke CE – Women perform well under pressure 🌍 Cultural & Historical References Mosuo society, China (Kingdom of Women) Minangkabau, Indonesia – world’s largest matrilineal society Iroquois Confederacy – Clan Mothers Viking warrior woman discovery, Birka, Sweden Dahomey Amazons (Agojie) 🎙️ Past Episode Connection That’s What She Said Podcast Archive Connect with Me 🌐 amandabryantherapy.com 🌐 sonewyoga.com 📸 Instagram: @amandabryantherapy 🕊️ Bluesky: @amandabryantherapy ✨ If this episode inspired you, share it with someone who needs a reminder of their power. And if you’re local to Merrimack, come join me in the studio—we’re building community, strength, and healing together. Support the show

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About

Step into a space of clarity, connection, and soulful insight. On [Podcast Name], I offer intuitive tarot readings for guests, where the wisdom of the cards meets the energy of transformation. Each episode dives deep into the messages that flow through, bringing meaningful guidance for my guests and inspiration for listeners. But it’s more than just readings — this podcast is a heartfelt journey into intuition, spirituality, and the beautiful chaos of real life. As a mother, wife, and fierce advocate for justice and freedom for all beings, I blend honest conversations about family, empowerment, and purpose with the magic of spiritual exploration. Tune in for episodes that nourish your soul, ignite your intuition, and remind you that you’re never alone on your path

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