Free to Be Mindful Podcast

Vanessa De Jesus Guzman, LPC, NCC
Free to Be Mindful Podcast

The Free to Be Mindful Podcast invites you along on a journey to learn of mindful living, grow in mental health and inspire through personal growth. In a world where we can often feel much stress and overwhelm, this podcast provides bite-sized tips and real-talk conversations, empowering you to embrace mindfulness and nurture your full potential.Welcome to the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, where busy working moms like you can find solace, clarity, and practical tips to live a mindful and intentional life.  Hosted by Vanessa De Jesus Guzman - a Licensed Therapist, Retired Educator, Entrepreneur, and Mom of two - this podcast is designed to empower moms to prioritize their mental well-being, embrace mindfulness, and nurture their full potential without losing their cool.In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, stressed, and burnt out. But motherhood doesn’t have to mean chaos and anxiety. The Free to Be Mindful Podcast provides bite-sized tips, real-talk conversations, and  expert interviews to help you embrace an intentional approach to find joy and reduce overwhelm, prioritize your mental health amidst the chaos of motherhood, and engage in self-discovery with guidance from experts and personal stories Vanessa's unique blend of professional experience and personal insight has made her a trusted voice in the wellness and mental health space. Featured on the Today Show, Univision, Parents Latina and multiple national publications, Vanessa is passionate about helping moms like you reduce the mental load, find moments of peace, and live a more fulfilling life. Each episode is designed with your busy schedule in mind—keeping things short, sweet, and practical. Whether you're driving to work, folding laundry, or taking a break between tasks, you can easily fit these episodes into your day. Every episode wraps up with a short guided meditation, giving you the opportunity to pause, reflect, and center yourself. Whether you’re looking to reduce stress, cultivate mindfulness, or simply carve out time for yourself, the Free to Be Mindful Podcast is the perfect companion for your journey to a more mindful and joyful life. New episodes are released weekly twice a week, so don’t miss out! Tune in to reclaim your calm, center yourself, and remember that in the midst of it all, you are always Free to Be Mindful.

  1. 30 JUN

    More Than a Podcast: 20 Guests, One Powerful Season

    This season was filled with powerful stories, inspiring guests, and real-life moments that reminded us: this is more than a podcast... it’s a movement. In this heartfelt finale of Season 6, Vanessa reflects on the highs and the lessons, shares fun behind-the-scenes moments, and gives you a sneak peek of what’s coming in Season 7. With 20 incredible guests — including doctors, therapists, entrepreneurs, and real moms navigating real life — this season offered wisdom, validation, and connection in every episode. Plus, Vanessa shares how you can pause this summer without guilt, how to stay connected between seasons, and a limited-time free audiobook gift that you don’t want to miss. EPISODE DESCRIPTION A look back at the most listened-to and most watched episodes of Season 6Shoutout to the most memorable guest moments and listener feedbackWhy the shift from two episodes a week was necessary (spoiler: motherhood!)How you can also slow down this summer, guilt-freeSummer podcast fun: Tea and Takeaways: A Therapist's POVBehind-the-scenes of what’s coming in Season 7A special invitation to Amiga Moms™ Private CoachingA free audiobook gift from the founders of Brand Builders Group TUNE IN TO LEARN Why Season 6 felt more personal and powerful than ever beforeWhat slowing down actually looks like in real life (and why it’s okay)How to give yourself permission to reset without falling behindWays to stay grounded, supported, and intentional this summerHow to access a free resource to help you grow your voice and visibility FREE GIFT Brand Builders Group Limited Time FREE audio book download: Wealthy and Well Known https://wealthyandwellknown.com/audiobook-rpp/?affiliate_code=161478 TAKEAWAY MESSAGE This season may be ending, but the impact continues. Whether you're catching up on past episodes, embracing a summer slowdown, or joining Amiga Moms™ for deeper support, know this: you're not alone — and you’re always Free to Be Mindful. Send us a text 120 COPING SKILLS https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast-120copingskills CULTIVATE CALM CHALLENGE https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast-cultivatingcalmchallenge 1:1 PRIVATE COACHING FOR MOMS https://www.amigamoms.com/coaching WATCH THE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@counselorvdejesus GET THE MUSE HEADBAND AT A DISCOUNT! https://choosemuse.com/freetobemindful Use this link to get 15% off your total when you purchase the amazing brain sensing headband that tells you when you're in a meditative state and guides you to improve your practice. STAY CONNECTED: Show Hashtag: #freetobemindfulpodcast Website: https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast All Social Channels: @counselorvdejesus DISCLAIMER: Free to Be Mindful Podcast episodes are for educational purposes only and should not be considered as or substituted for therapy or professional help from a licensed clinician.

    13 min
  2. 23 JUN

    Discovering Your Life's Mission with Malaysia Harrell

    What if you didn’t have to wait for a breakdown or life crisis to start living with purpose? In this episode, Vanessa is joined by Malaysia Harrell, a spiritual transformation coach, licensed psychotherapist, veteran, and speaker. Malaysia shares how a near-death experience became the turning point that led her to surrender, heal, and fully step into alignment with her life’s mission. If you’ve ever felt like you’re constantly putting others first, stuck in survival mode, or unsure how to make time for yourself, this conversation will speak to you. Malaysia opens up about the power of saying no, the importance of listening to your body, and why your legacy begins now, not someday in the future. You don’t need to wait for the right moment to take action. This episode will leave you feeling inspired to live with intention and create a life that reflects who you really are. REFRENCED LINKS: https://www.malaysiaharrell.com/ https://www.blissfullifeconsulting.com https://www.instagram.com/malaysiahharrell/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/malaysia-h-harrell-a322b19b/ https://www.instagram.com/malaysiahharrell/ Send us a text 120 COPING SKILLS https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast-120copingskills CULTIVATE CALM CHALLENGE https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast-cultivatingcalmchallenge 1:1 PRIVATE COACHING FOR MOMS https://www.amigamoms.com/coaching WATCH THE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@counselorvdejesus GET THE MUSE HEADBAND AT A DISCOUNT! https://choosemuse.com/freetobemindful Use this link to get 15% off your total when you purchase the amazing brain sensing headband that tells you when you're in a meditative state and guides you to improve your practice. STAY CONNECTED: Show Hashtag: #freetobemindfulpodcast Website: https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast All Social Channels: @counselorvdejesus DISCLAIMER: Free to Be Mindful Podcast episodes are for educational purposes only and should not be considered as or substituted for therapy or professional help from a licensed clinician.

    43 min
  3. 16 JUN

    Why Slowing Down Feels So Hard (and why you need to do it anyway!)

    In this heartfelt winddown of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, Vanessa invites us to explore the very thing so many of us struggle with: rest. Through personal stories, cultural reflections, and gentle guidance, she helps us unpack why slowing down feels uncomfortable — and how to finally find peace in the pause. Drawing from her upbringing in a traditional Dominican household, Vanessa shares how hustle culture, perfectionism, and even trauma can shape our relationship with rest. She walks us through how to rebuild safety in stillness by tending to the mind, listening to the body, and reconnecting with the soul. Whether you're heading into summer overwhelmed or eager to reset, this episode offers a loving reminder: you don’t have to earn your rest. You are worthy of peace, presence, and joy — just as you are. EPISODE DESCRIPTION How cultural and emotional conditioning shapes our discomfort with restThe hidden fears behind constant motionWays to create mental white space and emotional clarityPractices to listen to your body and release stored tensionSmall ways to nourish your soul and reconnect with your true selfAn invitation to pause as we head into summerA gentle ad for Amiga Moms™ Coaching and how to start your own journey TUNE IN TO LEARN Why hustle doesn’t always mean productivityHow perfectionism and trauma impact your ability to slow downWhat brain dumps, grounding, and soul-play can do for your nervous systemPractical tools to rest your mind, body, and soul — no guilt necessaryHow to start reconnecting with the version of you who felt like herself TAKEAWAY MESSAGE You’re not falling behind — you’re just overdue for rest. As the school year winds down and the podcast pauses for summer, let this episode remind you to slow down with intention. Because you don’t have to earn your rest — you just have to receive it. Amiga Moms Private Coaching https://www.amigamoms.com/coaching Send us a text 120 COPING SKILLS https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast-120copingskills CULTIVATE CALM CHALLENGE https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast-cultivatingcalmchallenge 1:1 PRIVATE COACHING FOR MOMS https://www.amigamoms.com/coaching WATCH THE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@counselorvdejesus GET THE MUSE HEADBAND AT A DISCOUNT! https://choosemuse.com/freetobemindful Use this link to get 15% off your total when you purchase the amazing brain sensing headband that tells you when you're in a meditative state and guides you to improve your practice. STAY CONNECTED: Show Hashtag: #freetobemindfulpodcast Website: https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast All Social Channels: @counselorvdejesus DISCLAIMER: Free to Be Mindful Podcast episodes are for educational purposes only and should not be considered as or substituted for therapy or professional help from a licensed clinician.

    13 min
  4. 9 JUN

    Keeping it Simple: Skin Care & Mom Life with Dr. Mary Alice Mina

    In this episode of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, Vanessa is joined by dermatologist and mom Dr. Mary Alice Mina to talk about how our skin changes over time—and why taking care of it doesn’t have to be complicated. They break down what really affects our skin, including hormones, stress, and lifestyle habits. Dr. Mina shares practical advice that goes beyond just products. She talks about how skincare is connected to sleep, nutrition, and how we care for ourselves day to day. The conversation is filled with helpful tips that make skincare feel doable, not overwhelming. They also discuss the pressure many women feel to look a certain way, and how to shift our mindset around aging. For moms especially, this episode is a great reminder that small, consistent habits and self-care go a long way—and that asking for help is not only okay, but necessary. If you’ve ever felt lost in skincare routines, pressured by social media, or just want to feel more confident in your own skin, this one’s for you. Hit play and take what you need from this refreshing and relatable conversation. REFERENCED LINKS: www.theskinreal.com https://www.instagram.com/drminaskin https://www.youtube.com/@drminaskin https://www.tiktok.com/@drminaskin https://www.facebook.com/drminaskin Send us a text 120 COPING SKILLS https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast-120copingskills CULTIVATE CALM CHALLENGE https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast-cultivatingcalmchallenge 1:1 PRIVATE COACHING FOR MOMS https://www.amigamoms.com/coaching WATCH THE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@counselorvdejesus GET THE MUSE HEADBAND AT A DISCOUNT! https://choosemuse.com/freetobemindful Use this link to get 15% off your total when you purchase the amazing brain sensing headband that tells you when you're in a meditative state and guides you to improve your practice. STAY CONNECTED: Show Hashtag: #freetobemindfulpodcast Website: https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast All Social Channels: @counselorvdejesus DISCLAIMER: Free to Be Mindful Podcast episodes are for educational purposes only and should not be considered as or substituted for therapy or professional help from a licensed clinician.

    37 min
  5. 2 JUN

    What Does it Really Mean to Be Rich?

    In this thoughtful episode of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, Vanessa invites you to explore what it really means to be rich, beyond bank accounts and material success. Through reflections on celebrity insights and everyday experiences, she shares how true wealth is often rooted in presence, purpose, and a deep sense of gratitude.  EPISODE DESCRIPTION Why money is often tied to safety and happinessWhat high-net-worth celebrities say about true successHow life in simpler settings can reflect deeper joyPersonal reflections on motherhood, heritage, and meaningA gentle guided meditation and journaling prompt to cultivate gratitude TUNE IN TO LEARN How to reframe your definition of wealthThe power of gratitude in shifting your mindsetQuestions to reflect on your values and alignmentWhy mindfulness and intention go hand-in-hand with abundance TAKEAWAY MESSAGE Being rich isn’t about what you have - it’s about what you notice. Gratitude helps us see the beauty, purpose, and peace that are already present in our lives. Send us a text 120 COPING SKILLS https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast-120copingskills CULTIVATE CALM CHALLENGE https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast-cultivatingcalmchallenge 1:1 PRIVATE COACHING FOR MOMS https://www.amigamoms.com/coaching WATCH THE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@counselorvdejesus GET THE MUSE HEADBAND AT A DISCOUNT! https://choosemuse.com/freetobemindful Use this link to get 15% off your total when you purchase the amazing brain sensing headband that tells you when you're in a meditative state and guides you to improve your practice. STAY CONNECTED: Show Hashtag: #freetobemindfulpodcast Website: https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast All Social Channels: @counselorvdejesus DISCLAIMER: Free to Be Mindful Podcast episodes are for educational purposes only and should not be considered as or substituted for therapy or professional help from a licensed clinician.

    12 min
  6. 26 MAY

    Journey to the Self with Dr. Nichelle Bowes

    In this episode of the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, Vanessa De Jesus Guzman talks with Dr. Nichelle Bowes, a leadership coach, mental fitness expert, and speaker. After a life-changing bike accident, Dr. Bowes began helping high-achieving women, especially Black and Brown women, live with more purpose and joy. They explore the pressure many women feel to follow a checklist of life milestones—like getting the degree, the job, the marriage, the family—and how that path doesn’t always lead to happiness. Dr. Bowes shares a simple and powerful process to reconnect with yourself, build confidence, and create a life that feels true and fulfilling. The episode also touches on the difference between therapy and coaching, and how they can work together to support your personal growth. As the founder of Chocolate Serenity, Dr. Bowes wraps up the episode with a mindful eating meditation that makes it easy to bring mindfulness into your daily life. If you’re feeling stuck or unfulfilled, this episode is your reminder that it’s okay to rewrite the rules and choose yourself. Share this conversation with a friend and check out Dr. Bowes’s inspiring work and uplifting book. Referenced Links Dr. Nichelle Bowes’s Book: Sacred Serenity: Start Your Day With Mental Fitness and Empowerment https://www.amazon.com/Sacred-Serenity-Mental-Fitness-Empowerment/dp/B0DPR8S8HN Follow Dr. Nichelle Bowes on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leadershipthatreaches/ Chocolate Serenity Website: www.chocolateserenity.com Instagram: @chocolate.serenity Send us a text 120 COPING SKILLS https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast-120copingskills CULTIVATE CALM CHALLENGE https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast-cultivatingcalmchallenge 1:1 PRIVATE COACHING FOR MOMS https://www.amigamoms.com/coaching WATCH THE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@counselorvdejesus GET THE MUSE HEADBAND AT A DISCOUNT! https://choosemuse.com/freetobemindful Use this link to get 15% off your total when you purchase the amazing brain sensing headband that tells you when you're in a meditative state and guides you to improve your practice. STAY CONNECTED: Show Hashtag: #freetobemindfulpodcast Website: https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast All Social Channels: @counselorvdejesus DISCLAIMER: Free to Be Mindful Podcast episodes are for educational purposes only and should not be considered as or substituted for therapy or professional help from a licensed clinician.

    41 min
  7. 19 MAY

    A Dream to a Movement: Celebrating 6 Years of Free to Be Mindful

    In this special anniversary episode, Vanessa De Jesus Guzman — licensed therapist, speaker, and host of the Free to Be Mindful podcast — reflects on six years of growth, resilience, and purpose. What began as a part-time dream has evolved into a full-time mission: supporting others through mindful living, mental health, and personal growth. From navigating licensing setbacks to launching a private practice, from building a national speaking presence to embracing new motherhood again after a decade — Vanessa shares the real story behind the milestones, and the values that keep her grounded through every season of change. EPISODE DESCRIPTION: Join Vanessa as she shares: The origin story of Free to Be Mindful — and what almost stopped it before it startedMajor turning points over the past six yearsWhat it’s like balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship (with honesty and humor)Highlights from this past year including speaking wins, Tea & Takeaways, and therapy dog visitsReflections on living with intention — even when life feels uncertainEncouragement to pause, reflect, and celebrate your own journey TUNE IN TO LEARN: Why the "messy middle" matters just as much as the polished endHow seasons of change can deepen your clarity and confidenceThe power of letting go, pivoting, and trusting your purposeWhat it means to stay grounded in values, both personally and professionallyA guided reflection to help you reconnect with where you are and where you’re headed TAKEAWAY MESSAGE: Whether you're planting seeds or watching them bloom, your growth is worth honoring. You don’t need to have it all figured out to pause and appreciate how far you’ve come.  Listen in, and remember... you’re always free to be mindful. Send us a text 120 COPING SKILLS https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast-120copingskills CULTIVATE CALM CHALLENGE https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast-cultivatingcalmchallenge 1:1 PRIVATE COACHING FOR MOMS https://www.amigamoms.com/coaching WATCH THE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@counselorvdejesus GET THE MUSE HEADBAND AT A DISCOUNT! https://choosemuse.com/freetobemindful Use this link to get 15% off your total when you purchase the amazing brain sensing headband that tells you when you're in a meditative state and guides you to improve your practice. STAY CONNECTED: Show Hashtag: #freetobemindfulpodcast Website: https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast All Social Channels: @counselorvdejesus DISCLAIMER: Free to Be Mindful Podcast episodes are for educational purposes only and should not be considered as or substituted for therapy or professional help from a licensed clinician.

    22 min
  8. 12 MAY

    Ditching “Busy” to Raise Confident Girls with Traci Peterson

    In this episode, Vanessa is joined by Traci Peterson—nurse practitioner, entrepreneur, and founder of Woman Lessons, a movement designed to help mothers and daughters build confidence and connection. They explore how busyness can become a woman’s identity, why so many high performers struggle with self-worth, and how those patterns can unintentionally shape the next generation. Traci opens up about the moment her daughter asked for “woman lessons” and how it led to a deeper mission around identity, self-care, and presence. Perfect for moms, educators, and anyone raising girls in today’s world, this episode offers thoughtful insights and practical tools to help women lead from within and model true confidence. REFERENCED LINKS Website: https://tracipeterson.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tpete/ and @motherdaughtermovement Use code EMPOWERED for 10% off the Woman Lessons retreat 120 COPING SKILLS https://www.freetobemindful.com/podca... CULTIVATE CALM CHALLENGE https://www.freetobemindful.com/podca... SUBMIT QUESTIONS for CONSULT A COUNSELOR: https://qrco.de/consultacounselor GET THE MUSE HEADBAND AT A DISCOUNT! https://choosemuse.com/freetobemindful Use this link to get 15% off your total when you purchase the amazing brain sensing headband that tells you when you're in a meditative state and guides you to improve your practice. STAY CONNECTED: Show Hashtag: #freetobemindfulpodcast Website: https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast All Social Channels: @counselorvdejesus DISCLAIMER: Free to Be Mindful Podcast episodes are for educational purposes only and should not be considered as or substituted for therapy or professional help from a licensed clinician. Send us a text 120 COPING SKILLS https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast-120copingskills CULTIVATE CALM CHALLENGE https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast-cultivatingcalmchallenge 1:1 PRIVATE COACHING FOR MOMS https://www.amigamoms.com/coaching WATCH THE PODCAST ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@counselorvdejesus GET THE MUSE HEADBAND AT A DISCOUNT! https://choosemuse.com/freetobemindful Use this link to get 15% off your total when you purchase the amazing brain sensing headband that tells you when you're in a meditative state and guides you to improve your practice. STAY CONNECTED: Show Hashtag: #freetobemindfulpodcast Website: https://www.freetobemindful.com/podcast All Social Channels: @counselorvdejesus DISCLAIMER: Free to Be Mindful Podcast episodes are for educational purposes only and should not be considered as or substituted for therapy or professional help from a licensed clinician.

    41 min

Trailers

About

The Free to Be Mindful Podcast invites you along on a journey to learn of mindful living, grow in mental health and inspire through personal growth. In a world where we can often feel much stress and overwhelm, this podcast provides bite-sized tips and real-talk conversations, empowering you to embrace mindfulness and nurture your full potential.Welcome to the Free to Be Mindful Podcast, where busy working moms like you can find solace, clarity, and practical tips to live a mindful and intentional life.  Hosted by Vanessa De Jesus Guzman - a Licensed Therapist, Retired Educator, Entrepreneur, and Mom of two - this podcast is designed to empower moms to prioritize their mental well-being, embrace mindfulness, and nurture their full potential without losing their cool.In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, stressed, and burnt out. But motherhood doesn’t have to mean chaos and anxiety. The Free to Be Mindful Podcast provides bite-sized tips, real-talk conversations, and  expert interviews to help you embrace an intentional approach to find joy and reduce overwhelm, prioritize your mental health amidst the chaos of motherhood, and engage in self-discovery with guidance from experts and personal stories Vanessa's unique blend of professional experience and personal insight has made her a trusted voice in the wellness and mental health space. Featured on the Today Show, Univision, Parents Latina and multiple national publications, Vanessa is passionate about helping moms like you reduce the mental load, find moments of peace, and live a more fulfilling life. Each episode is designed with your busy schedule in mind—keeping things short, sweet, and practical. Whether you're driving to work, folding laundry, or taking a break between tasks, you can easily fit these episodes into your day. Every episode wraps up with a short guided meditation, giving you the opportunity to pause, reflect, and center yourself. Whether you’re looking to reduce stress, cultivate mindfulness, or simply carve out time for yourself, the Free to Be Mindful Podcast is the perfect companion for your journey to a more mindful and joyful life. New episodes are released weekly twice a week, so don’t miss out! Tune in to reclaim your calm, center yourself, and remember that in the midst of it all, you are always Free to Be Mindful.

You Might Also Like

To listen to explicit episodes, sign in.

Stay up to date with this show

Sign in or sign up to follow shows, save episodes and get the latest updates.

Select a country or region

Africa, Middle East, and India

Asia Pacific

Europe

Latin America and the Caribbean

The United States and Canada