Can I Just Say? with Nikki La Croce

Nikki La Croce
Can I Just Say? with Nikki La Croce Podcast

Can I Just Say? is a phrase that I often say and one which is deeply rooted in the essence of who I am. It is how I enter conversations, initiate connection, and invite people to share their stories. The idea being that this is a platform and community where guests and listeners have the freedom to say whatever is on your mind and in your heart. So, when somebody leads with, “Can I just say?”, my answer is an emphatic “YES.” As I embark on this next stage of my podcasting journey, guests will be going beyond what’s expected and diving into the more raw, vulnerable parts of their stories that don’t often get enough air time or perhaps they’ve never shared before. In keeping aligned with my personal values, I am focused on building a community of cycle-breakers who want to connect and grow together.

  1. 3 SEPT

    The Quest For Deeper Friendships with Jewel Hohman

    In this episode of 'Can I Just Say,' I sit down with Jewel to explore the transformative power of vulnerability and breaking away from social perfectionism. We delve into how societal expectations and the loneliness epidemic affect our ability to forge meaningful connections. Jewel shares her personal journey of embracing vulnerability and setting healthy boundaries, which has allowed her to build deeper relationships. We discuss the science behind lasting friendships, the importance of open communication, and the balancing act between self-compassion and holding space for tough emotions. Through personal stories and practical insights, we encourage you to reflect on your own relationships and highlight the role of empathy and active effort in forming genuine, sustainable friendships. 🎧 Episode Chapters:00:00 Introduction: The Pressure of Social Perception00:58 The Importance of Authentic Relationships01:30 Diving into the Conversation with Jewel03:42 Understanding Social Anxiety and Perfectionism04:45 The Loneliness Epidemic and Its Impact06:50 Building Meaningful Connections11:10 The Role of Boundaries in Friendships13:25 The Fluidity of Friendships21:32 Social Perfectionism and Its Challenges23:58 The Reveal: Fear of Being Truly Seen30:11 Personal Growth and Self-Acceptance33:11 Overcoming Shame and Embracing Change35:18 Self-Compassion and Objectivity36:38 Understanding Social Perfectionism37:40 Navigating Rejection and Emotional Safety43:01 The Importance of Vulnerability in Friendships46:54 Repairing and Deepening Relationships57:13 The Role of Jealousy and Competition01:02:10 Empathy and Boundaries in Friendships01:02:58 Understanding Yourself to Connect with Others01:09:23 Creating Meaningful Friendships01:12:23 Effort and Vulnerability in Building Connections ********************************************🤝 Work with Jewel:https://www.connectionwithjewel.com/ 🎙️ Listen to The Socially Delight-full Podcast with Jewel: https://www.connectionwithjewel.com/podcast ******************************************** 📺 Subscribe to Can I Just Say? on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@nicandnik 👉 Follow Me:https://instagram.com/nikkilacrocehttps://tiktok.com/@nikkilacrocehttps://facebook.com/@canijustsaypodcasthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkilacroce/

    1h 15m
  2. 27 AUG

    Embracing Personal Growth with Compassion & Curiosity with Christina Carlson​

    In this deeply engaging episode, I reconnect with my dear friend, Christina Carlson for a heartfelt conversation about life's many intricate layers. During our conversation, we explore the challenges and limitations of traditional education and the significance of acknowledging different types of intelligence. We also delve into complex themes of control, trauma response, and the process of evolving into more self-aware and connected individuals. Both of us share our personal journeys of understanding and managing our needs for control, the importance of self-compassion, and creating supportive and safe environments. If you're a deep thinker who appreciates pondering life's many questions, this episode offers a rich tapestry of insights into the human experience.   🎧 Episode Chapters: 00:00 Reconnecting with an Old Friend 01:45 Connecting with Nature and Spirituality 04:47 Late Night Curiosity and Google Searches 07:38 Rethinking Education and Learning 25:13 Balancing Personal Well-being and Global Issues 34:02 The Complexity of Control in Relationships 43:13 The Role of Community in Healing 49:39 The Duality of Self-Love and Ethical Living   ******************************************** 🤝 Work with Christina: https://www.christinamcarlson.com/ 👉 Follow Christina: https://tiktok.com/@christinaclifecoach https://www.instagram.com/christinacarlsonlifecoach/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/careercoachingwithchristina ******************************************** 📺 Subscribe to Can I Just Say? on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@nicandnik 👉 Follow Me:https://instagram.com/nikkilacrocehttps://tiktok.com/@nikkilacrocehttps://facebook.com/@canijustsaypodcasthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkilacroce/

    53 min
  3. 20 AUG

    Facing Shame and Embracing Self-Love with Matt Gerlach

    In this episode, I share the mic with Matt Gerlach to dive deep into the journey of overcoming personal shame and nurturing self-love. We discuss the challenges in setting boundaries, handling familial relationships, and addressing imposter syndrome. Together, we explore the impact of societal expectations and the importance of accepting positive feedback and affirming oneself amidst external validation. With candid personal anecdotes and practical advice, we highlight the significance of acknowledging and challenging our inner critics. Join us for a raw, relatable conversation filled with insights and strategies for finding inner peace and embracing your true self, as we continue to inspire each other toward self-acceptance and growth. 🎧 Episode Chapters: 00:00 Introducing Matt Gerlach 05:36 Reflecting on Childhood and Emotional Health 10:59 Navigating Financial and Emotional Stress 14:49 Confronting Masculinity and Emotions 22:25 The Role of Shame and Self-Awareness 31:52 Setting Boundaries and Self-Advocacy 36:50 Balancing Responsibilities and Expectations 38:52 The Importance of Boundaries in Relationships 41:13 Facing Personal Shame and Growth 42:45 Challenges of Setting Boundaries with Family 46:43 Understanding and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome 57:27 The Role of External Validation in Self-Worth 01:04:48 The Practice of Self-Compassion ********************************************🎙️ Listen to Matt’s podcast, MATTers of the Mind:https://bit.ly/3Az2nVx  ✨ Work with Matt:https://mattgerlach.com/ 💡 Learn more about Matt’s coaching program, Rise to Your Worth:https://mattgerlach.com/coaching/ 👉 Follow Matt: https://www.instagram.com/iammattgerlach/https://www.tiktok.com/@iammattgerlach   ********************************************📺 Subscribe to Can I Just Say? on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@nicandnik 👉 Follow Me:https://instagram.com/nikkilacrocehttps://tiktok.com/@nikkilacrocehttps://facebook.com/@canijustsaypodcasthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkilacroce/

    1h 11m
  4. 13 AUG

    Developing Your Spiritual Gifts with Emily O'Neal

    In this captivating episode, I'm thrilled to have a deep and insightful conversation with Emily O'Neal, an evidential psychic medium and founder of Blooming Wand. We explore the importance of intentional spiritual connection, the ethics of mediumship, and the evolution of Emily's extrasensory abilities. We also discuss how to trust your intuition and the significance of finding a supportive community while navigating your spiritual journey. Emily shares practical advice on differentiating genuine intuition from biases and the value of intentional training in mediumship. Whether you're curious about spiritual practices or looking to deepen your own journey, this episode is packed with insights and practical tips to enhance your spiritual and personal growth. Join us for this enlightening conversation and empower yourself to trust your intuition and develop your spiritual path.    🎧 Episode Chapters: 00:00 Introducing Emily O'Neal 02:18 Exploring Extrasensory Abilities 07:08 Personal Spiritual Journeys 17:41 Understanding Intuition and Trust 34:41 Spiritual Bypassing and Ethical Considerations 46:56 Moving From Skepticism to Acceptance 51:46 Connecting with Spirit Guides 53:28 The Journey of Mediumship Development 55:42 The Role of Community in Spiritual Growth 01:18:14 Balancing Bias and Spiritual Practice 01:23:58 Concluding Thoughts and Resources ********************************************   🤝 Work with Emily: https://bloomingwand.com/  👉 Follow Emily on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blooming_wand/  ********************************************   📺 Subscribe to Can I Just Say? on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@nikkilacroce 👉 Follow Me:https://instagram.com/nikkilacrocehttps://tiktok.com/@nikkilacrocehttps://facebook.com/@canijustsaypodcasthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkilacroce/

    1h 28m
  5. 6 AUG

    How Stories Shape Our Lives and Legacies with Andrew Hall

    In this episode, I share the mic with Andrew as we discuss the importance of capturing stories and the intentional paths we carve in our lives to make a positive impact. Andrew shares insights from his ventures, including the creation and growth of his company, No Story Lost. We touch on the value of preserving family stories, the significance of values in personal and professional arenas, and the challenges and joys of entrepreneurship. This thoughtful conversation offers practical advice on living with purpose, embracing connections, and continually evolving towards true fulfillment.   🎧 Episode Chapters: 00:00 Introducing Andrew Hall 01:17 Family Stories and the Birth of No Story Lost 03:48 Capturing Memories: Techniques and Reflections 13:51 The Importance of Values and Self-Reflection 24:35 Combining Strengths for Unique Success 28:28 Exploring Personal Strengths and Building Connections 29:25 The Intersection of Passion and Community Building 31:05 Reflections on Purpose and Impact 32:55 Lessons from Early Life and Career 35:34 Navigating Business Challenges and Social Enterprise 46:29 The Importance of Collaboration and Motivation 51:49 Pursuing Purpose and Personal Growth   ******************************************** Document your family’s legacy with No Story Lost: https://nostorylost.com/   ******************************************** 📺 Subscribe to Can I Just Say? on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@nikkilacroce 👉 Follow Me:https://instagram.com/nikkilacrocehttps://tiktok.com/@nikkilacrocehttps://facebook.com/@canijustsaypodcasthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkilacroce/

    1h 1m
  6. 30 JUL

    How Music Helps Us Heal with Aliza Hava

    In this deeply moving episode of 'Can I Just Say?', I sit down with the incredible Aliza Hava, a singer, songwriter, and activist, whose life journey takes us through the intersections of trauma, healing, and the transformative power of music. Aliza shares her experiences growing up in a violent household, finding solace and purpose in music, and how she shifted her focus from activism to personal healing. We delve into the intimate stories behind her upcoming album, 'Into The Light,' which captures her journey from trauma to triumph. Aliza also talks about her international peace work, the serendipitous events that guided her path, and the profound impact of spiritual awakening. This episode offers a heartfelt exploration of how music can heal individuals and unite communities, and it promises to inspire listeners to reflect on their own healing journeys.   🎧 Episode Chapters: 00:52 Meet Aliza Hava: Singer, Songwriter, and Activist 02:31 Aliza's Early Life and Musical Beginnings 05:34 The Healing Power of Music 13:43 Activism and Peace Initiatives 28:41 The Turning Point: Breaking Free from Toxic Family Ties 31:44 Healing Through Music: The Journey of 'Into the Light' 34:29 The Impact of Trauma and the Path to Recovery 44:00 Spiritual Awakening and Serendipitous Encounters 51:34 Sharing Stories and Inspiring Healing ******************************************** Visit Aliza’s website to check out her new album, “Into The Light” and upcoming shows:https://alizahava.com/ Listen to Aliza’s music🎧 Spotify🍎 Apple   Follow Aliza:InstagramYoutube   ******************************************** 📺 Subscribe to Can I Just Say? on Youtube   👉 Follow Nikki:InstagramTikTokFacebookLinkedIn

    60 min
  7. 22 JUL

    Boost Your Confidence Through Fashion with Susan Padron

    In this episode, I share the mic with Susan Padron, an intuitive personal stylist, to discuss the transformative power of fashion in expressing our true selves. Susan opens up about her journey of self-discovery and how it influenced her to exit her career as a teacher to pursue her passion for fashion. We chat about the importance of authenticity, the courage to embrace discomfort, and the art of balancing strength with gentleness in our personal presence. Susan shares her insights on helping clients feel like the best versions of themselves through personal styling and color analysis. If you’ve ever questioned your style or sought inspiration for self-growth, you won’t want to miss this treasure of an episode. 🎧 Episode Chapters 00:44 Meet Susan Padron: Intuitive Stylist01:50 The Journey to Self-Discovery03:11 Challenges of Personal Style06:45 Embracing Androgynous Fashion10:01 Navigating Shopping Anxiety12:53 The Power of Playful Accessories16:23 Building Confidence Through Style27:10 Learning to Accept Compliments31:46 Susan's Path to Becoming a Personal Stylist37:32 Embracing Self-Expression Through Tattoos39:05 Breaking Free from Professional Constraints42:23 Exploring Our Identity Beyond Roles46:19 Navigating Clothing Choices and Self-Confidence51:11 Generational Perspectives on Self-Expression57:32 The Impact of Authenticity on Parenting ******************************************** 🤝 Work with Susan: https://susanpadronstylist.com/ 🎙️ Listen to Susan's Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-susan-padron-podcast/id1686474279 📓 Join Susan's Intuitive Style Masterclass:https://susanpadronstylist.com/masterclass 👉 Follow Susan:https://www.instagram.com/susanpadron_stylist/ ******************************************** 📺 Subscribe to Can I Just Say? on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@nikkilacroce 👉 Follow Me:https://instagram.com/nikkilacrocehttps://tiktok.com/@nikkilacrocehttps://facebook.com/@canijustsaypodcasthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkilacroce/

    1h 16m
  8. 16 JUL

    From Self-Doubt to Self-Worth with Carlo Taormina

    In this vulnerable and insightful episode, I sit down with Carlo Taormina, a motivational speaker and life coach. Carlo courageously shares his transformative journey from battling anxiety and depression to rediscovering his self-worth and uncovering his purpose. We delve into the emotional depths of feeling lost, Carlo's struggles with limiting beliefs, and the pivotal moments that led him to a path of resilience and personal growth. Through our conversation, we highlight the profound impact of vulnerability in building meaningful connections and the importance of a robust support system. Carlo discusses practical strategies for transforming limiting beliefs into empowering narratives, encouraging listeners to engage in self-reflection and embrace their true potential. Join us for an inspiring dialogue on self-compassion, personal growth, and the journey to finding purpose.   🎧 Episode Chapters 00:51 Introducing Carlo Tarormino 01:41 Balancing Tough Love and Empathy in Coaching 05:01 Reflecting on Childhood and Self-Compassion 10:10 Carlo's Journey Through Depression 16:01 The Turning Point: Finding Hope 24:04 The Role of Family Support 33:16 Reconnecting with Friends 37:12 The Power of Showing Up 39:33 Emotional Awareness and Self-Reflection 41:42 Facing and Overcoming Failure 43:12 Intellectualizing Emotions 47:02 Emotional Decisions and Justifications 53:47 The Rocking Chair Test 57:09 Repurposing Fear for Growth 58:35 Navigating Self-Doubt and Growth 01:09:53 Final Reflections and Gratitude ******************************************** 🤝 Work with Carlo: https://www.carlotaormina.com/  👉 Follow Carlo:* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carlotaormina_lifecoach/ *Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carlo.taormina.52 *Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlo-taormina-22573ab6/ *TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@carlotaormina_lifecoach ******************************************** 🎙️ Sign up for updates from Can I Just Say?:https://canijustsaypodcast.com/   📺 Subscribe to Can I Just Say? on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@nikkilacroce 👉 Follow Me:https://instagram.com/nikkilacrocehttps://tiktok.com/@nikkilacrocehttps://facebook.com/@canijustsaypodcasthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkilacroce/

    1h 13m

About

Can I Just Say? is a phrase that I often say and one which is deeply rooted in the essence of who I am. It is how I enter conversations, initiate connection, and invite people to share their stories. The idea being that this is a platform and community where guests and listeners have the freedom to say whatever is on your mind and in your heart. So, when somebody leads with, “Can I just say?”, my answer is an emphatic “YES.” As I embark on this next stage of my podcasting journey, guests will be going beyond what’s expected and diving into the more raw, vulnerable parts of their stories that don’t often get enough air time or perhaps they’ve never shared before. In keeping aligned with my personal values, I am focused on building a community of cycle-breakers who want to connect and grow together.

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