Universal Empress Podcast

Nadine McNeil
  • 5.0 (1)
  • MENTAL HEALTH

Nadine McNeil invites you on a transformational journey of unlearning, acceptance, and deep inner healing. Drawing from her book “Self-Love Is a Practice” (available on Amazon), Nadine explores how true self-love influences every area of life - the work we do, the relationships we nurture, the food we eat, and the boundaries we set.  Join Nadine as she shares stories, tools, and reflections to help you reconnect with your essence, embrace your imperfections, and live more intentionally. Because self-love isn’t selfish, it is sacred.  In this podcast, you'll learn:  1. Why self-love is the foundation of personal transformation.  2. How to unlearn people-pleasing and self-judgment.  3. The connection between self-love, self-worth, and mindfulness.  4. Practical ways to embody radical self-acceptance.  Subscribe to the Universal Empress Podcast for weekly insights and inspiration to help you live with purpose, authenticity, and compassion. 

Episodes

  1. DEC 5

    Self Love Is A Practice: Self-Love and navigating the holiday season

    Join host Nadine McNeil in this deeply moving conversation with Professor Karen Carpenter, one of the Caribbean's leading voices on human behavior, sexuality, and mental health.  In this special holiday episode, they explore the emotional weight many of us carry during the festive season—from family triggers and holiday shame to the unique challenges facing Jamaica in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa.  Professor Carpenter, one of the key founders of the Caribbean Sexuality Free Clinic at the University of the West Indies, brings her expertise to bear on why holidays are such powerful emotional catalysts and how we can navigate them with greater self-compassion.  This conversation goes beyond surface-level advice, diving into the distinction between shame and guilt, the trauma stored in our bodies from past disasters, and the importance of creating rituals that honor where we truly are—not where society tells us we should be.  Recorded in the wake of Hurricane Melissa's devastation, this episode offers profound insights into collective trauma, the loss of identity that comes with disaster, and the radical act of receiving help. Whether you're struggling with family expectations, grieving a loss, or simply trying to find your footing during a difficult season, this conversation offers practical wisdom, emotional validation, and a simple but powerful breathing practice to reclaim your center.  Key Topics:  Why holidays trigger old emotional patterns The difference between shame (social) and guilt (personal) Trauma responses to natural disasters Creating meaningful rituals during difficult times The gift of giving and receiving support A practical 3-breath centering practice  Guest: Professor Karen Carpenter  Learn more about Professor Carpenter's work: https://www.drkarencarpenter.com/about

    28 min

  2. NOV 28

    #10 Self-Love & Self-Worth

    In this episode, Nadine breaks down the essential difference between self-esteem and self-worth. Self-esteem comes from external validation—praise, performance, and approval. Self-worth is internal, steady, and rooted in who you are, not what others think. She explores how modern life conditions us to depend on outside affirmation, leading to insecurity and people-pleasing. Nadine shares her own experiences speaking to large audiences and how easy it is to fall into the approval trap. True self-worth grows when you do the inner work—embracing your shadows, loving imperfections, and standing firm in your identity even when no one is applauding. You’ll learn: The real difference between self-esteem and self-worthWhy external validation can’t sustain confidenceHow accepting your imperfections strengthens your foundationHow self-worth influences what you believe you deserve—in work and relationshipsNadine reminds listeners that the butterfly isn’t the transformation—it’s the outcome. The real transformation happens in the messy becoming. Nadine McNeil — Universal Empress. book: Self-Love is a Practice (available on Amazon) Website - https://universalempress.com/

    8 min

  3. NOV 28

    #9 Self-Love & Self-Respect

    In this powerful episode, Nadine explores the deep connection between self-love and self-respect, and how these two practices shape every relationship, boundary, and decision in our lives. She begins with a profound truth: we set the standard for how we are treated. Respect can’t be demanded. It’s cultivated through our own embodiment — through integrity, aligned actions, honest communication, and the willingness to take responsibility for our choices. Nadine breaks down how self-respect and self-love are not separate practices, but complementary forces. You cannot fully love yourself while disrespecting your body, your time, or your truth. And you cannot truly respect yourself while abandoning your own needs or silencing your voice. Through personal insight and practical reflection, she illustrates how everyday choices — from the food we eat to the boundaries we set — reveal the relationship we hold with ourselves. You’ll learn: Why self-respect is an essential pillar of self-loveHow aligned words and actions build inner integrityThe difference between boundaries and wallsWhy discomfort is often a sign that growth is happeningHow to respond when others push back against your new standardsNadine reminds us: self-respect is a practice, just like self-love. And when you stand up for yourself, you stand up for everything that matters in your life. Join her in this grounding, empowering exploration. Nadine McNeil — Universal Empress. Transforming lives, one breath at a time. book: Self-Love is a Practice (available on Amazon) Website - https://universalempress.com/

    7 min

  4. NOV 28

    #8 Self-Love & Self-Reflection

    In this transformative episode, Nadine — Universal Empress — dives into one of the most powerful yet overlooked practices on the self-love journey: self-reflection. She opens with a truth many of us feel deeply: we weren’t raised to love ourselves. We were taught to fit in, to perform, to prove. Real self-love requires unlearning—and learning to see ourselves clearly, without judgment. In this episode, Nadine guides listeners through a simple but profoundly revealing mirror practice. With just 60 seconds of presence, she invites you to meet your own gaze, notice the emotions that arise, and witness how the body reacts when you truly see yourself. This is not a moment for criticism. It’s a moment for compassion, acceptance, and reconnecting with the essence of who you are. Nadine also shares her own experience with the exercise—how initial judgment softened into tenderness, and how self-reflection can expand the heart rather than break it. You’ll also receive a 30-day self-reflection assignment to deepen your practice: one minute each morning in the mirror, repeating “I love you” as you build toward three minutes of presence and emotional honesty. A reminder Nadine leaves us with: “The mirror reflects what you see, but your inner vision defines who you truly are.” Join her in this powerful inward journey. Nadine McNeil — Universal Empress. Transforming lives, one breath at a time.  book: Self-Love is a Practice (available on Amazon) Website - https://universalempress.com/

    9 min
  5. Returning Home: A Self-Love Reminder After Hurricane Melissa

    NOV 28

    Returning Home: A Self-Love Reminder After Hurricane Melissa

    In this heartfelt update, Nadine McNeil returns with an honest reflection on life, service, and the necessity of caring for oneself. Shortly after launching the podcast, Nadine’s home country of Jamaica was devastated by Hurricane Melissa. With her background in emergency response and logistics, she felt called to return home and immediately dive into relief work. Moving across the island, witnessing the loss experienced by so many, deeply affected her. Amid the urgency to help, she realized her own self-love practice had quietly slipped away. In this episode, Nadine shares how depletion showed up emotionally and physically, and the important reminder that guided her back: you cannot pour from an empty cup. She speaks about the ongoing relief efforts she is supporting—particularly children’s homes, women’s shelters, and special needs facilities—and invites listeners to contribute through All Hands JA.  As we move into the season of giving, Nadine also introduces the Self-Love Is a Practice mugs, with a portion of proceeds supporting these charitable initiatives. A daily reminder with every sip: self-love is a practice. Tune in as she reconnects to the ocean, her breath, and her mission. Nadine McNeil — Universal Empress. Transforming lives, one breath at a time.

    3 min

  6. OCT 24

    #7 - The Journey Within - Learning to Love Every Part of Yourself

    In this heartfelt episode, Nadine McNeil shares how her personal story of disconnection became the foundation of her self-love practice. Growing up in Jamaica under the structure of traditional expectations, Nadine followed all the “rules” - until one powerful question changed everything: "How can I do unto others as I would have them do unto me, when I don’t know how to do unto me?" Through raw honesty and gentle wisdom, Nadine reminds us that self-love isn’t a destination but a lifelong journey - one that deepens as we begin to embrace even the parts of ourselves we once rejected. This episode is an invitation to look within, to confront, to heal, and to rediscover the beauty in every corner of who you are. Based on her book: Self-Love is a Practice (available on Amazon) Website - https://universalempress.com/ #SelfLove #HealingJourney #PersonalGrowth #UniversalEmpress #NadineMcNeil #UniversalEmpress

    4 min

  7. OCT 24

    #6 - Returning to the Practice – Reconnecting with Your Self-Love Journey

    In this reflective episode, Nadine invites you to return to the essence of what self-love truly means. Drawing from her book Self-Love Is a Practice, she reminds us that this journey isn’t a one-time act - it’s a daily devotion. As we grow and evolve, self-love takes on new shapes, new meanings, and new challenges. Through this series, Nadine explores self-love in all its expressions: in wellness, relationships, family, and self-respect. Some episodes will feature her intimate reflections, while others will welcome guests who’ve deeply influenced her journey. In this episode, you’ll discover: Why self-love is the foundation for transformationHow imperfection can be your greatest strengthThe true meaning of radical self-acceptanceWhat it means to live “one breath at a time” Join Nadine as she invites you to listen, reflect, and most importantly - love yourself without apology because that’s where true transformation begins. Based on her book: Self-Love is a Practice (available on Amazon) Website - https://universalempress.com/ #SelfLove #Podcast #NadineMcNeil #UniversalEmpress #HealingJourney #Mindfulness #Transformation #SelfCare #Empowerment

    4 min

  8. OCT 24

    #5 - Self-Love and Wellness

    True wellness begins when we love ourselves enough to care for every part of who we are - body, mind, and soul. In this episode, Nadine McNeil, the Universal Empress, explores self-love and wellness as a sacred practice. From the food we eat and the thoughts we entertain to the people we surround ourselves with, everything we engage in shapes our well-being. Through heartfelt reflections, Nadine reminds us that our bodies are our temples - the vessels that carry our dreams, joys, and purpose.  She shares how movement, mindfulness, stillness, and gratitude can restore harmony and balance, while emphasizing that it’s okay to seek support and rest when needed. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to listen to the wisdom of your bodyWhy movement is a form of self-loveThe difference between toxic positivity and compassionate self-talkSimple daily rituals to nourish your mind and spiritHow gratitude anchors emotional wellnessRemember: wellness isn’t a luxury - it’s an act of radical self-love. Based on her book: Self-Love is a Practice (available on Amazon) Website - https://universalempress.com/ #SelfLove #WellnessJourney #Mindfulness #MentalHealth #NadineMcNeil #UniversalEmpress #SelfCare #Healing #Podcast

    10 min

  9. OCT 24

    #4 - Self-Love and Mindfulness

    In this deeply grounding episode of The Self-Love as a Practice series, Nadine McNeil, The Universal Empress, guides you through the art of mindfulness - the sacred act of connecting with your inner being. In a world full of distractions and constant noise, mindfulness invites you to slow down, breathe, and return home to yourself. Nadine shares how tuning into the body helps you move from reaction to responsiveness, allowing you to navigate life’s challenges with ease, grace, and awareness. You’ll also be guided through a short, powerful grounding exercise designed to center your energy, calm your nervous system, and open your heart to self-love. Whether you’re beginning your day, winding down at night, or pausing to breathe in the middle of it all, this practice is a reminder that mindfulness is one of the highest forms of self-love. Breathe. Ground. Be. Based on her book: Self-Love is a Practice (available on Amazon) Website - https://universalempress.com/ #Mindfulness #SelfLove #TheUniversalEmpress #NadineMcNeil #Meditation #InnerPeace #SelfCare #Grounding #WellnessPodcast #SpiritualGrowth

    9 min

  10. OCT 17

    #3 - Self-Love and You - The Power of Honoring Yourself

    In this episode of The Universal Empress Podcast, Nadine McNeil explores what it truly means to love yourself - not in theory, but in daily practice. Self-love, she reminds us, isn’t a walk in the park. It takes acceptance, self-awareness, reflection, and vulnerability. But once you begin this sacred journey, everything in your life starts to shift. Nadine shares her personal path - how yoga became her gateway to self-love and how subtle changes in her habits, mindset, and energy began to transform her world from the inside out. She also explains why you must be selfish to be selfless: because you cannot pour from an empty cup. In this episode, you’ll learn: How to release guilt around putting yourself firstWhy boundaries are an essential act of self-respectA simple mirror affirmation to rewire self-loveDaily practices to ground, energize, and reconnect with yourself Remember, to love yourself is to become the most empowered version of you. Hosted by Nadine McNeil — The Universal Empress, transforming lives one breath at a time. book: Self-Love is a Practice (available on Amazon) Website - https://universalempress.com/ #SelfLove #HealingJourney #Mindfulness #PersonalGrowth #SelfCare #Empowerment #UniversalEmpress #NadineMcNeil

    7 min

  11. OCT 17

    #2 - What Self-Love Really Means - And What It’s Not

    In this episode of the Universal Empress Podcast, Nadine McNeil shares her deeply personal journey of learning self-love - not from upbringing or tradition, but through experience, heartbreak, and awakening. Born and raised in Jamaica to Christian parents, Nadine was taught to be the “good girl” - to study hard, be kind, and put others first. But after a painful breakup in her thirties, she began to ask herself a powerful question: "How can I truly love others if I don’t know how to love myself? In this heartfelt reflection, Nadine uncovers what self-love is not - it’s not perfection, performance, or pleasing others. It’s not conditional or transactional. And it’s certainly not addiction disguised as love. True self-love, she reveals, begins when we embrace every part of ourselves, even the imperfect ones - and allow that acceptance to transform our lives. “When you start to love your imperfections and embody them, that’s when you shift into this radical act of self-love.” Hosted by: Nadine McNeil, The Universal Empress Topic: What Self-Love Really Means (and What It’s Not) Based on her book: Self-Love is a Practice (available on Amazon) Website - https://universalempress.com/ #SelfLove #HealingJourney #PersonalGrowth #UniversalEmpress #NadineMcNeil #Mindfulness #SpiritualAwakening #JamaicanWomen #SelfCare #Motivation

    4 min

  12. OCT 17

    #1 - The Radical Power of Self-Love - Why It’s the Foundation of Everything

    Self-love is the most radical form of activism because from it, everything else flows. In this powerful opening episode of the Universal Empress Podcast, Nadine McNeil invites you on a transformational journey of unlearning, acceptance, and deep inner healing. Drawing from her book “Self-Love Is a Practice” (available on Amazon), Nadine explores how true self-love influences every area of life - the work we do, the relationships we nurture, the food we eat, and the boundaries we set. Join Nadine as she shares stories, tools, and reflections to help you reconnect with your essence, embrace your imperfections, and live more intentionally. Because self-love isn’t selfish, it is sacred. In this podcast, you'll learn: 1. Why self-love is the foundation of personal transformation. 2. How to unlearn people-pleasing and self-judgment. 3. The connection between self-love, self-worth, and mindfulness. 4. Practical ways to embody radical self-acceptance. Subscribe to the Universal Empress Podcast for weekly insights and inspiration to help you live with purpose, authenticity, and compassion. Based on her book: Self-Love is a Practice (available on Amazon) Website - https://universalempress.com/ #SelfLove #Mindfulness #HealingJourney #PersonalGrowth #UniversalEmpress #NadineMcNeil

    3 min
  • 12 Episodes

About

Nadine McNeil invites you on a transformational journey of unlearning, acceptance, and deep inner healing. Drawing from her book “Self-Love Is a Practice” (available on Amazon), Nadine explores how true self-love influences every area of life - the work we do, the relationships we nurture, the food we eat, and the boundaries we set.  Join Nadine as she shares stories, tools, and reflections to help you reconnect with your essence, embrace your imperfections, and live more intentionally. Because self-love isn’t selfish, it is sacred.  In this podcast, you'll learn:  1. Why self-love is the foundation of personal transformation.  2. How to unlearn people-pleasing and self-judgment.  3. The connection between self-love, self-worth, and mindfulness.  4. Practical ways to embody radical self-acceptance.  Subscribe to the Universal Empress Podcast for weekly insights and inspiration to help you live with purpose, authenticity, and compassion. 

Information

  • Creator
    Nadine McNeil
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    12
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Universal Empress Podcast