The Zhen Podcast

Zhen

You’re listening to The Zhen Podcast - a show focused on mental health, physical health, relationship health, and the daily practices that support real, lasting change. Each episode features thoughtful conversations with guests who share real-life experiences — from their own journeys to the work they’ve done with clients - offering practical examples of healing, learning, and growth. We explore what actually helps people move forward, whether that comes from science, health, psychology, spirituality, or simple habits that make a meaningful difference. The goal is clarity, self-awareness, and tools you can apply to your own life — now let's begin the conversation Disclaimer: "The information provided in this Podcast Channel (the "Channel") does not, and is not intended to, constitute professional advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this Channel are for general informational purposes only. This Channel contains information provided by interviewees and/or links to other third-party websites. Such links are only for the convenience of the reader, user or browser. The views expressed at, or through, this site are those of the individual interviewees in their individual capacities only – not those of the Channel. All liability with respect to actions taken or not taken based on the contents of this Channel are hereby expressly disclaimed. The content on this posting is provided "as is;" no representations are made that the content is error-free." Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

  1. 5d ago

    Healing from Toxic Relationships: Reclaiming Your Identity After Narcissistic Family Trauma

    Are you feeling trapped in the cycle of toxic relationships, wondering how to reclaim your identity and joy? Join Zhen and Taylor in this enlightening episode of The Zhen Podcast, where they unravel the intricate layers of healing from narcissistic family dynamics and the impact of childhood trauma on our self-perception. Discover the profound truth that you are not inherently broken; rather, you are on a transformative journey toward wholeness and self-love. Throughout this compelling conversation, Zhen and Taylor emphasize the significance of nurturing a healthy self-relationship as a powerful tool for healing. They delve into the emotional responses that surface when we begin to recognize unhealthy patterns shaped by our upbringing—feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and the fear of losing our true selves in the process of healing. With insightful discussions on attachment theory and the effects of narcissistic abuse, this episode serves as a beacon of hope for those grappling with mental health challenges, including depression and anxiety, and Toxic Relationships. As they explore the phases of realization and the journey of self-improvement, Zhen and Taylor share personal anecdotes and practical advice on navigating the complexities of trauma healing. They advocate for a compassionate approach to wellness, encouraging listeners to embrace mindfulness and emotional intelligence as they work toward personal growth. The conversation also touches on the importance of integrating different parts of oneself through practices like shadow work and inner child healing, fostering a deeper understanding of the subconscious mind and the patterns that dictate our relationships. With a focus on boundary setting and overcoming self-sabotage, this episode offers valuable insights for anyone looking to break free from the chains of toxic relationships and reclaim their sense of purpose. Taylor’s reflections on navigating feelings of inadequacy resonate deeply, providing motivation for those facing the daunting task of healing after heartbreak. The duo emphasizes that while the journey may be challenging, it is ultimately about rediscovering your authentic self and cultivating a life filled with happiness and fulfillment. Connect with Taylor Simon: https://taylorstherapyservices.com/ (415) 938-5543 Join us in this transformative episode of The Zhen Podcast as we navigate the path to healing, offering tools and strategies to rewire your brain and foster emotional regulation. Whether you're seeking anxiety relief, exploring therapy options, or simply looking to understand the psychology of your relationships, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in and take the first step toward your healing journey today! Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

    Healing from Toxic Relationships: Reclaiming Your Identity After Narcissistic Family Trauma

  2. Jul 9

    Navigating Grief: Mindfulness, Healing, and Emotional Wellness with Grief Therapist Corinne Neese

    What if the pain of grief could be transformed into a pathway for healing and personal growth? Join Zhen as she dives deep into the complexities of grief with expert grief therapist Corinne Neese, who sheds light on how this natural human response profoundly impacts our emotional health. Grief is not just about losing a loved one; it encompasses the loss of identity, the death of cherished pets, and even the invisible losses we carry within us. Throughout this enlightening conversation, Corinne shares her expertise in trauma and EMDR therapy, emphasizing that grief is a multifaceted experience that intertwines cognitive, emotional, and physiological responses. As we navigate the intricate landscape of grief, the importance of mindfulness becomes clear. Corinne highlights how practicing mindfulness can serve as a powerful tool for emotional regulation, allowing individuals to process their grief more effectively. The episode also addresses how societal pressures often stifle our ability to grieve openly, making self-compassion and emotional intelligence crucial in the healing journey. Zhen and Corinne explore the feelings of regret that frequently accompany grief, offering listeners valuable insights into how to honor lost connections while also moving forward with their lives. Grief is not a linear journey; it requires patience, understanding, and a willingness to embrace the complexities of our emotions. Through practical advice and relatable anecdotes, this episode serves as a guide for listeners on how to navigate their own grief and support others in their grieving process. Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, or the aftermath of trauma, the insights shared in this episode can significantly enhance your mental health and wellness journey. Discover how to rewire your brain to foster healing, cultivate self-love, and embrace personal growth amidst the challenges of grief. From boundary setting in relationships to understanding attachment theory, Zhen and Corinne offer a wealth of knowledge that can help you build confidence and motivation as you confront the shadows of your past. This episode is not just about grief; it's about finding purpose and happiness in the face of loss, making it a must-listen for anyone seeking to improve their emotional well-being. Tune in to The Zhen Podcast for a transformative conversation that will inspire you to embrace your grief as a catalyst for healing and self-discovery. Whether you're on a journey of healing after heartbreak or seeking to understand the nuances of grief and loss, this episode promises to be a beacon of hope and a source of practical wisdom. Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

    Navigating Grief: Mindfulness, Healing, and Emotional Wellness with Grief Therapist Corinne Neese

  3. Jul 2

    Marriage: Compromise, Emotional Intimacy, and Overcoming Trauma Together | Dr. Wyatt Fisher

    Have you ever wondered why some marriages thrive while others struggle? In this enlightening episode of The Zhen Podcast, host Zhen invites Dr. Wyatt, a seasoned couples therapist, to explore the intricate dynamics of love, compatibility, and the essential role of compromise in maintaining a healthy marriage. Together, they unravel the complexities that often challenge relationships, emphasizing that the ebb and flow of love is a natural part of long-term partnerships. Dr. Wyatt sheds light on how unrealistic expectations can create barriers, preventing couples from effectively addressing their issues. Listeners will discover the transformative power of emotional intimacy and effective communication as Dr. Wyatt shares invaluable insights into how couples can learn to support one another rather than simply offering solutions. Zhen opens up about her own experiences with compromise and the challenges that come with navigating relationships, making this episode relatable and grounded in real-life struggles. As they delve deeper, the conversation touches on the importance of self-awareness and personal growth, encouraging individuals to reflect on their contributions to relationship dynamics. Throughout the episode, listeners are invited to adopt strategies that foster empathy and understanding in their marriages. Dr. Wyatt emphasizes the significance of emotional intelligence and the need for partners to engage in mindfulness practices that enhance their connection. By addressing relationship anxiety and exploring attachment theory, the episode provides practical advice that can lead to healing and happiness within partnerships. Moreover, the discussion encompasses vital themes such as self-care, boundary setting, and overcoming self-sabotage, which are crucial for personal development and overall wellness. Whether you're navigating the complexities of marriage or seeking to improve your emotional regulation, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge backed by psychology and neuroscience. Join us for an engaging conversation that not only addresses the challenges of marriage but also empowers listeners to embark on their journey of self-improvement and healing. With insights on trauma bonding, emotional regulation, and the mind-body connection, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to enhance their relationships and cultivate a fulfilling partnership. Tune in to The Zhen Podcast and take the first step toward a more balanced and joyful marriage! 🌐 https://www.drwyattfisher.com/?srsltid=AfmBOoocwGZbujwjpBlHYSMg1XYEJAGqn5yti0vTQ3qSOLRZO1dFAUQC 🎙️https://www.drwyattfisher.com/pages/marriage-podcast-marriage-steps 📱https://www.instagram.com/drwyattfisher/?hl=en ▶️https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpGROOZEStPah_L_GRUQjcg If anything in this episode brought something up for you — support is available:📞 Mental health and crisis support — call or text 988📞 Substance use support — 1-800-662-4357💬 Crisis Text Line — text HOME to 741741 Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

    Marriage: Compromise, Emotional Intimacy, and Overcoming Trauma Together | Dr. Wyatt Fisher

  4. Jun 18

    Personal Finance and Intentional Living: Confronting Mortality for Personal Growth and Happiness | Jermaine Ee

    Have you ever considered how confronting your own mortality could transform your understanding of personal finance? In this enlightening episode of The Zhen Podcast, host Zhen engages in a profound conversation with Jermaine E, the visionary founder of the estate planning app Airlight. Together, they explore the often-avoided topic of mortality, emphasizing that writing one's eulogy can unlock essential insights into what truly matters in life and how we approach our financial futures. Jermaine's journey began with a heartfelt conversation with his mother, who, as an immigrant, expressed her fears surrounding financial insecurity. This pivotal moment ignited his passion for creating Airlight, an innovative tool designed to demystify estate planning and empower individuals to take charge of their personal finance. Throughout this episode, listeners will discover the vital importance of engaging in financial planning, regardless of age or socioeconomic status, and reflecting on their values and intentions regarding money. As the discussion unfolds, Jermaine sheds light on societal pressures that often dictate our relationship with wealth and success. He advocates for a more personal approach to financial management, reminding us that our financial decisions should align with our core values and contribute to our overall wellness and happiness. This episode is not just about finance; it touches on the mental health aspects of financial anxiety, the trauma that can stem from financial insecurity, and the healing that comes from understanding and managing our resources wisely. Listeners will resonate with Jermaine’s poignant reflections on living intentionally, which emerged from his experiences with his mother before her passing. This episode serves as a powerful reminder that prioritizing what truly brings joy and meaning to our lives can lead to greater fulfillment and emotional intelligence. Whether you're grappling with anxiety, navigating relationships, or seeking self-improvement, this conversation offers valuable insights into how personal finance intersects with mental health, mindfulness, and personal growth. Join us as we challenge the conventional narratives surrounding money, encourage boundary setting, and explore the connections between financial stability and emotional well-being. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to rewire their brain around personal finance, overcome self-sabotage, and embrace a life filled with purpose and intention. Tune in to discover how you can transform your relationship with money and cultivate a more meaningful existence through the lens of personal finance. Connect with Jermaine Ee:  https://heirlight.com/en https://www.linkedin.com/in/eejermaine/ https://www.eejermaine.com/ If anything in this episode brought something up for you — support is available:📞 Mental health and crisis support — call or text 988📞 Substance use support — 1-800-662-4357💬 Crisis Text Line — text HOME to 741741 Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

    Personal Finance and Intentional Living: Confronting Mortality for Personal Growth and Happiness | Jermaine Ee

  5. Jun 11

    Understanding Family Dynamics: Healing from Narcissistic Abuse and Cultivating Emotional Wellness in Relationships | Taylor Simon

    Have you ever felt trapped in a cycle of emotional turmoil within your family, wondering how to break free from toxic relationships? Join host Zhen in this enlightening episode of The Zhen Podcast as she sits down with Taylor Simon, a licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in narcissistic abuse recovery. Together, they unravel the intricate web of family dynamics, shedding light on the often-overlooked roles of the golden child and scapegoat that perpetuate unhealthy patterns in familial relationships. As Taylor shares her expertise, listeners will gain valuable insights into the emotional toll of growing up in environments marked by narcissistic abuse. This conversation is not just about identifying these damaging dynamics; it’s about understanding the profound impact they have on mental health, anxiety, and trauma. By exploring the cultural nuances of family systems, the episode contrasts individualistic and collectivist perspectives, illustrating how these frameworks shape our understanding of relationships and emotional well-being. The discussion emphasizes the critical need for self-awareness and mindfulness in navigating family dynamics. Taylor highlights the importance of somatic awareness—listening to your body as a guide to healing. This episode is a treasure trove for anyone seeking to embark on a journey of personal growth and healing, offering practical advice on boundary setting and the significance of seeking therapeutic support, including innovative approaches like ketamine-assisted therapy. Listeners will also learn about the concepts of emotional regulation and the nervous system, gaining tools to combat anxiety and depression that often accompany the aftermath of narcissistic relationships. Zhen and Taylor delve into the necessity of self-love and self-care, encouraging listeners to prioritize their happiness and wellness amidst the chaos of unhealthy family dynamics. Whether you’re grappling with childhood trauma, navigating complex PTSD, or seeking to break free from cycles of self-sabotage and codependency, this episode provides a roadmap for healing. Discover the power of spirituality and holistic mental health practices as Zhen and Taylor explore how to rewire your brain for happiness and purpose. Don't miss this opportunity to gain clarity on the challenges of narcissistic family recovery and learn how to foster healthier relationships. Tune in to The Zhen Podcast for a profound exploration of the intricacies of family dynamics and the path to emotional freedom and personal empowerment! Connect with Taylor Simon: 💼 https://taylorstherapyservices.com/ 📱 https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/taylor-eva-simon-san-francisco-ca/1254231 If anything in this episode brought something up for you — support is available:📞 Mental health and crisis support — call or text 988📞 Substance use support — 1-800-662-4357💬 Crisis Text Line — text HOME to 741741 Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

    Understanding Family Dynamics: Healing from Narcissistic Abuse and Cultivating Emotional Wellness in Relationships | Taylor Simon

  6. Jun 4

    People Pleasing: Building Core Confidence for Personal Growth and Mental Wellness Journey | Dr. Melissa Gressner

    Are you tired of constantly people pleasing before your own, only to feel unfulfilled and anxious? Join us in this enlightening episode of The Zhen Podcast, where host Zhen sits down with Dr. Melissa Gressner, a licensed clinical psychologist from Denver, Colorado, who specializes in anxiety, confidence, and relationships. Together, they dive deep into the challenging world of 'people pleasing' and the journey toward developing 'core confidence'—a powerful sense of self that can help you overcome fear and anxiety. Dr. Gressner expertly unpacks the psychological implications of people pleasing, revealing how it can lead to chronic stress and burnout. She emphasizes the importance of prioritizing self-care and understanding your own needs, which is crucial for anyone on a path to stop people pleasing and emotional intelligence. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for those grappling with anxiety, depression, or trauma, offering practical strategies for self-improvement and healing. Throughout the conversation, Zhen and Dr. Gressner explore the pitfalls of 'faking it till you make it' and the value of cultivating realistic positivity. They discuss how confidence can flourish through taking small, manageable risks, and why it's essential to acknowledge both internal and external factors that contribute to self-love and acceptance. Are you ready to break free from self-sabotage and the fear of success? This episode provides invaluable advice on how to begin developing core confidence, encouraging listeners to make small decisions for themselves as a first step toward transformation. With a focus on mental health and wellness, Dr. Gressner shares her expertise in attachment theory and the inner workings of the subconscious mind and ways to stop people pleasing. She sheds light on how our past experiences shape our present relationships and self-perception, offering guidance on navigating toxic relationships and setting healthy boundaries. This episode is not just about understanding anxiety; it's about taking actionable steps toward healing and emotional regulation. Whether you’re struggling with high-functioning anxiety, looking to recover from burnout, or seeking to improve your relationships, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical tips. Tune in to discover how to rewire your brain for happiness, embrace your inner child, and embark on a journey of self-discovery and purpose. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from Dr. Gressner’s wealth of knowledge and take the first steps toward a more confident and fulfilling life and no more people pleasing. Connect with Dr. Melissa Gressner: Website: drgressner.com Instagram: instagram.com/drmelissag If anything in this episode brought something up for you — support is available: Mental health and crisis support — call or text 988 Substance use support — 1-800-662-4357 Crisis Text Line — text HOME to 741741 Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

    People Pleasing: Building Core Confidence for Personal Growth and Mental Wellness Journey | Dr. Melissa Gressner

  7. May 28

    They Lied. How To Recognize A Narcissistic Relationship. | Taylor Simon

    If you have ever left a conversation feeling like you completely lost your grip on reality — you were not imagining it. That was intentional. Taylor Simon is a therapist and psychedelic researcher who has spent years working with survivors of narcissistic abuse — and what he will tell you in this episode is something most people do not hear until years after they have already left. Narcissism is not just about someone being selfish or difficult. It is a calculated system of manipulation designed to make you doubt your own perception, abandon your own needs, and stay loyal to someone who is actively harming you. This episode breaks down the full spectrum of narcissistic behavior — from the grandiose and obvious to the covert and invisible. It explains why narcissists manipulate therapy itself to avoid accountability, what the red flags actually look like before you have the language for them, and what it takes to get out safely and rebuild a relationship with your own reality. If you have ever wondered whether you were the problem — this episode is going to answer that question once and for all. Connect with Taylor Simon: 🌐 taylorstherapyservices.com 📱  In this episode: 🔥 The full spectrum of narcissistic behavior — from grandiose to covert and everything in between 🔥 Why narcissists sabotage therapy — and how they manipulate the therapeutic relationship itself 🔥 The red flags that distinguish a true personality disorder from a wound that needs compassion 🔥 How to safely exit a narcissistic relationship and protect yourself physically and emotionally 🔥 The deep psychological survival strategies that keep victims trapped in cycles of abuse 🔥 How to reconnect with your internal voice and rebuild self-trust after narcissistic trauma 🔥 How childhood environments create narcissistic behavior and the generational cycles they produce 🔥 Inner child work — how to heal from betrayal and restore your sense of worth 🔥 Why you were attracted to the narcissist in the first place — and what that actually means about you 🔥 What reclaiming your inner power actually looks like on the other side of narcissistic abuse Timestamps: 00:00 — Welcome and introduction to narcissistic abuse recovery 02:10 — How narcissists emerge and how to recognize their traits 04:19 — Why narcissists sabotage therapy — and what happens when they are challenged 06:52 — The spectrum of narcissistic behavior and the empathy deficit 09:10 — Childhood roots and family dynamics that shape narcissism 11:04 — Are you self-diagnosing narcissistic traits — what to know 13:01 — Why we are attracted to narcissists' power and what to watch for 15:28 — Charisma, confidence, and the dangerous red flags hiding underneath 16:43 — The consciousness and strategy behind narcissistic abuse 18:09 — Why breaks in therapy are healthy and when to step back 20:14 — How to safely exit a narcissistic relationship and protect your future 23:04 — Building intuitive strength and self-validation from the inside out 26:26 — Practical steps to heal, rebuild identity, and trust yourself again 29:02 — Listening to your body's cues and embodying your inner voice 33:00 — Overcoming compulsive behaviors and meeting inner needs 36:12 — Reclaiming power and self-parenting your inner child 37:48 — Reorganizing your inner world for lasting self-trust 41:17 — Processing deep emotional wounds and moving forward 44:17 — Inner validation and inner child work to reclaim your reality 45:57 — You are the one you have been waiting for If anything in this episode brought something up for you — support is available: 📞 Mental health and crisis support — call or text 988 📞 Substance use support — 1-800-662-4357 💬 Crisis Text Line — text HOME to 741741 The Zhen Podcast is mental wellness for peopl...

    They Lied. How To Recognize A Narcissistic Relationship. | Taylor Simon

  8. May 12

    The Career You Were Meant For Has Been There The Whole Time | Randi Benator

    Most people did not choose their career. They fell into it. Someone suggested it. It paid well enough. It made sense at the time. And now they are ten or twenty years in wondering how they got here and whether it is too late to do something that actually fits. Randi Benator is a career and life transition coach and the author of Awaken to Your Calling: A Guide to Discovering Your Career Path and Life Direction. She has spent years helping people answer the question that nobody teaches you how to answer — what am I actually supposed to be doing with my life? And what she will tell you is that the answer is almost never a lightning bolt moment. It is a process. And it is more accessible than most people think. This is not an episode about quitting your job tomorrow. It is an episode about getting honest about what is not working — sometimes taking a leap is the way to go for someone depending on their circumstances and sometimes the building the bridge is the best way. If you have ever felt like you are living someone else's life — this one is for you. Connect with Randi Benator: 🌐 careerandlifetransitions.com 📖 careerandlifetransitions.com/book.html 📞 415-924-4944 In this episode: 🔥 Why most people are stuck in unfulfilling careers — and the real reason they stay 🔥 The myth of a single calling — why your purpose is allowed to evolve across life stages 🔥 How to balance active pursuit and receptive patience when building something new 🔥 The common pitfalls that keep people from following what actually lights them up 🔥 sometimes taking a leap is the way to go for someone depending on their circumstances and sometimes the building the bridge is the best way. 🔥 Real life stories of career pivots that defied every societal expectation 🔥 How to get clear on your interests, talents, and what you are actually built for 🔥 How to manage the fear — the money, the seniority, the what will people think 🔥 Why mid life is not too late — it is actually the perfect time 🔥 What self awareness has to do with finding work that actually feels like yours Timestamps: 00:00 — Meet Randi Benator — career and life transition coach 02:22 — Why everyone needs to find their real path and the cost of settling 04:24 — Matching your work to your authentic self — what that actually means 08:48 — The evolving calling — why your purpose changes and that is completely okay 12:28 — Why so many people stay stuck in careers that never fit them 15:17 — Recognizing the signs that you need a major career shift 17:14 — Navigating fear, finances, and timing when changing careers 33:58 — The balance between taking action and trusting the process 41:36 — sometimes taking a leap is the way to go for someone depending on their circumstances and sometimes the building the bridge is the best way. If anything in this episode brought something up for you — support is available: 📞 Mental health and crisis support — call or text 988 📞 Substance use support — 1-800-662-4357 💬 Crisis Text Line — text HOME to 741741 The Zhen Podcast is mental wellness for people who are done being told to just think positive. Real conversations. Real healing. No filter. New episodes every week — follow so you never miss one. 🖤 Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

    The Career You Were Meant For Has Been There The Whole Time | Randi Benator
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About

You’re listening to The Zhen Podcast - a show focused on mental health, physical health, relationship health, and the daily practices that support real, lasting change. Each episode features thoughtful conversations with guests who share real-life experiences — from their own journeys to the work they’ve done with clients - offering practical examples of healing, learning, and growth. We explore what actually helps people move forward, whether that comes from science, health, psychology, spirituality, or simple habits that make a meaningful difference. The goal is clarity, self-awareness, and tools you can apply to your own life — now let's begin the conversation Disclaimer: "The information provided in this Podcast Channel (the "Channel") does not, and is not intended to, constitute professional advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this Channel are for general informational purposes only. This Channel contains information provided by interviewees and/or links to other third-party websites. Such links are only for the convenience of the reader, user or browser. The views expressed at, or through, this site are those of the individual interviewees in their individual capacities only – not those of the Channel. All liability with respect to actions taken or not taken based on the contents of this Channel are hereby expressly disclaimed. The content on this posting is provided "as is;" no representations are made that the content is error-free." Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Information

  • Creator
    Zhen
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    21
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © TheZhenPodcast
  • Show Website
    The Zhen Podcast