Happiness Unscripted

Kristin DeSouza

Welcome to Happiness Unscripted with your host, Kristin DeSouza.Here, we are on a journey to build a deeply happy and joyful life.Here, I'll share stories about my journey, talk with people finding their way to a happy life and with experts in many areas of life - wellness, communication, relationships, career, and more. Join us on this journey to explore ways to take control of building a life you are genuinely joyful living!Let's go get happy!

  1. Healing Through Hardship: Victoria Burmeister on Living Victoriously and Sharing Her Wisdom

    FEB 12

    Healing Through Hardship: Victoria Burmeister on Living Victoriously and Sharing Her Wisdom

    Send a text In this powerful episode of Happiness Unscripted, Kristin DeSouza continues her conversation with Victoria Burmeister, a resilience advocate who overcame a devastating car accident at 19 that left her paralyzed. Victoria shares her journey of defying the odds, focusing on a positive mindset, and living without regrets. They discuss the importance of reclaiming joy, sensuality, and strength, as well as Victoria's experiences with love, parenting from a wheelchair, and her upcoming memoir, 'Whiplash but Not Broken.' This episode highlights the significance of a supportive mindset, embracing life's challenges, and the power of love and communication in overcoming hardships. **Note: This episode touches on some triggering or sensitive topics, including suicide and intimate relationships.**  Chapter Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to Happiness Unscripted 00:20 Victoria's Journey of Resilience 01:09 Mindset and Overcoming Negativity 03:01 Surviving a Stroke 06:24 Living with No Regrets 08:05 Advocacy for Joy, Sensuality, and Strength 11:09 Challenges in Relationships 17:51 Navigating Emotional Conversations 19:03 The Importance of Communication 19:59 Overcoming Public Scrutiny 20:52 Humor in Adversity 23:43 Reflecting on Relationships 27:51 Raising Children as a Single Parent 29:13 Finding Support in Hard Times 32:27 Final Thoughts and Encouragement Connect with Victoria Burmeister, author of Whiplash but Not Broken: 🌐: https://lifewave.com/victoriaalen (For more information on X39) 📱 Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/VAllen5https://www.instagram.com/life_possitively_rolls_on/Connect with Happiness Unscripted: ✉️: happinessunscriptedpodcast@gmail.com 🎙️: https://happinessunscripted.buzzsprout.com On Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/61RuOPMxtnkZaGKtQTO1pm?si=e7bfd270bb7f489a On Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/happiness-unscripted/id1837486744 Also where you normally listen 👂 to podcasts! 📱 Social Media: facebook.com/HappinessUnscripted instagram.com/happinessunscripted/ Hey there friends! Just a friendly reminder that this podcast is all about sharing ideas and having fun conversations. I'm not an expert in this subject over here - jut a curious person exploring topics I find interesting. So please don't take anything said here as professional advice. When in doubt, chat with the real pros who know their stuff. Thanks for listening and hope you join us for the next episode! Now, let's dive in and get happy!

    40 min
  2. From Paralysis to Purpose: Victoria Burmeister's Journey of Strength and Faith

    FEB 5

    From Paralysis to Purpose: Victoria Burmeister's Journey of Strength and Faith

    Send a text In this episode of Happiness Unscripted, host Kristin DeSouza welcomes Victoria Burmeister, a passionate advocate for holistic healing,  along side traditional medicine, and empowerment. Victoria shares her inspiring story of surviving a car accident that left her paralyzed at the age of 19. Despite the devastating news, she defied medical expectations, regained some physical abilities, and dedicated her life to helping others reclaim their joy and strength. Through her personal experiences, writing, and advocacy work, Victoria illustrates the power of a positive mindset, relentless determination, and faith. She discusses the importance of holistic wellness, the life-changing impact of alternatives like the X39 patch, and the philosophy of not being broken but constantly becoming. This powerful conversation reveals the heart of resilience and the ongoing journey of creating joy and purpose in life's toughest moments. 00:00 Welcome to Happiness Unscripted 00:13 Introducing Victoria Burmeister 02:26 Victoria's Life Before the Accident 07:21 The Life-Changing Accident 10:25 Rehabilitation and Resilience 19:22 Mindset and Personal Growth 25:40 Physical Recovery and Independence 29:06 Spiritual Journey and Realizations 30:30 The Burden Lifted 30:51 A Call to Write a Book 31:45 Healing her Relationship with God 34:01 Discovering the X39 Patch 35:59 Experiencing the Benefits 49:09 Mind-Body Wellness 49:47 Conclusion and Reflection Connect with Victoria Burmeister, author of Whiplash but Not Broken: 🌐: https://lifewave.com/victoriaalen (For more information on X39) 📱 Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/VAllen5https://www.instagram.com/life_possitively_rolls_on/Connect with Happiness Unscripted: ✉️: happinessunscriptedpodcast@gmail.com 🎙️: https://happinessunscripted.buzzsprout.com On Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/61RuOPMxtnkZaGKtQTO1pm?si=e7bfd270bb7f489a On Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/happiness-unscripted/id1837486744 Also where you normally listen 👂 to podcasts! 📱 Social Media: facebook.com/HappinessUnscripted instagram.com/happinessunscripted/ Hey there friends! Just a friendly reminder that this podcast is all about sharing ideas and having fun conversations. I'm not an expert in this subject over here - jut a curious person exploring topics I find interesting. So please don't take anything said here as professional advice. When in doubt, chat with the real pros who know their stuff. Thanks for listening and hope you join us for the next episode! Now, let's dive in and get happy!

    52 min
  3. Beyond Symptoms: Dr. Ashley Woyak's Insights to Women's Midlife Health

    JAN 30

    Beyond Symptoms: Dr. Ashley Woyak's Insights to Women's Midlife Health

    Send a text In this episode of Happiness Unscripted, host Kristin DeSouza continues her enlightening conversation with Dr. Ashley Woyak, a naturopathic and chiropractic physician at Forward Natural Medicine in Madison, Wisconsin. The focus is on women's health in midlife, delving into common challenges such as hormonal imbalances, poor sleep, and emotional well-being. Dr. Woyak emphasizes the importance of a personalized, root-cause approach in functional medicine that looks beyond symptoms. She shares valuable insights on the interconnectedness of physical and mental health, highlighting how even small changes can lead to significant improvements. The episode underscores the idea that health and wellness are not about perfection but making consistent, manageable progress. 00:00 Welcome to Happiness Unscripted: Returning with Dr. Ashley Woyak 00:54 When Your Midlife Body Changes the Rules 21:01 Pushing Through vs. Listening to Your Body 23:55 From Burnout to Balance: Building Total Wellbeing 27:05 It's Never Too Late to Change 29:42 Health & Wellness is Not Perfection 31:35 Your Next Step on the Happiness Path: Rate, Review, & Rewrite Your Story! Connect with Dr. Ashley Woyak of Forward Natural Medicine: 🌐: https://www.forwardnaturalmed.com/ 📱 Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/forwardnaturalmed/https://www.instagram.com/forwardnaturalmed/https://www.youtube.com/@forwardnaturalmedicine6219/videosConnect with Happiness Unscripted: ✉️: happinessunscriptedpodcast@gmail.com 🎙️: https://happinessunscripted.buzzsprout.com On Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/61RuOPMxtnkZaGKtQTO1pm?si=e7bfd270bb7f489a On Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/happiness-unscripted/id1837486744 Also where you normally listen 👂 to podcasts! 📱 Social Media: facebook.com/HappinessUnscripted instagram.com/happinessunscripted/ Hey there friends! Just a friendly reminder that this podcast is all about sharing ideas and having fun conversations. I'm not an expert in this subject over here - jut a curious person exploring topics I find interesting. So please don't take anything said here as professional advice. When in doubt, chat with the real pros who know their stuff. Thanks for listening and hope you join us for the next episode! Now, let's dive in and get happy!

    33 min
  4. Pathways to Health: Dr. Ashley Woyak Explores Functional and Naturopathic Medicine

    JAN 22

    Pathways to Health: Dr. Ashley Woyak Explores Functional and Naturopathic Medicine

    Send a text In this episode of Happiness Unscripted, host Kristin DeSouza welcomes Dr. Ashley Woyak, an expert in Functional, Naturopathic, and Chiropractic medicine. Dr. Woyak shares insights into her extensive educational journey and how her unique approach to healthcare addresses the underlying causes of chronic conditions, particularly for women in midlife. The episode delves into the differences between conventional and naturopathic medicine, emphasizing the importance of root cause analysis, personalized care, and a holistic approach to health, as well as the value of functional medicine. Dr. Woyak also discusses the benefits of collaborating with a diverse team of specialists for optimal patient care, highlighting the growing acceptance and effectiveness of naturopathic medicine in her practice in Madison, Wisconsin. 00:00 Introduction to Happiness Unscripted 00:13 Meet Dr. Ashley Woyak 01:19 Ashley's Journey into Functional Medicine 06:19 Understanding Functional and Naturopathic Medicine 10:39 Examples of Integrated Medicine 17:42 Cost-Effective Healthcare Solutions 20:54 Signs You Might Benefit From a Functional Medicine Practitioner 21:29 The Spectrum of Patients in Functional Medicine 22:53 Personalized Lab Work 26:23 The Initial Consultation Experience 31:32 Empowering Patients in Their Wellness Journey 35:46 Outro and Next Episode Teaser Connect with Dr. Ashley Woyak of Forward Natural Medicine: 🌐: https://www.forwardnaturalmed.com/ 📱 Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/forwardnaturalmed/https://www.instagram.com/forwardnaturalmed/https://www.youtube.com/@forwardnaturalmedicine6219/videosConnect with Happiness Unscripted: ✉️: happinessunscriptedpodcast@gmail.com 🎙️: https://happinessunscripted.buzzsprout.com On Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/61RuOPMxtnkZaGKtQTO1pm?si=e7bfd270bb7f489a On Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/happiness-unscripted/id1837486744 Also where you normally listen 👂 to podcasts! 📱 Social Media: facebook.com/HappinessUnscripted instagram.com/happinessunscripted/ Hey there friends! Just a friendly reminder that this podcast is all about sharing ideas and having fun conversations. I'm not an expert in this subject over here - jut a curious person exploring topics I find interesting. So please don't take anything said here as professional advice. When in doubt, chat with the real pros who know their stuff. Thanks for listening and hope you join us for the next episode! Now, let's dive in and get happy!

    37 min
  5. The Story of The Full Plate: Aimee Gindin's Vision to Embrace Food Freedom and Ourselves

    JAN 15

    The Story of The Full Plate: Aimee Gindin's Vision to Embrace Food Freedom and Ourselves

    Send a text In this episode of Happiness Unscripted, host Kristin DeSouza welcomes back Aimee Gindin, the founder of The Full Plate, for an insightful conversation about intuitive eating and reclaiming one's relationship with food. Aimee shares her personal struggles with food, from early dieting influenced by societal pressures to her moment of epiphany that led her to a healthier, more intuitive approach to eating. Aimee discusses how The Full Plate provides holistic nutrition counseling, community support, and corporate wellness programs to help others break free from diet culture. The conversation delves into the psychological, social, and biological aspects of eating, highlighting the importance of listening to one’s own body and adopting a flexible approach to nutrition. Kristin and Aimee explore the transformative power of setting down rigid food rules and embracing a more fulfilling and authentic life. 00:00 Intro: Happiness Unscripted 01:45 Introduction to Aimee Gindin's Journey to The Full Plate 03:13 Aimee's Personal Struggles with Food - She Knows the Path She Helps You Walk 08:14 The Turning Point: Embracing Intuitive Eating 12:21 Impact of Family and Personal Challenges - Understanding Can Help You Walk in Freedom 18:50 The Vision Behind Full Plate 24:25 The Importance of Food Freedom 30:39 Practical Steps to Heal Your Relationship with Food 39:39 How to Connect with Full Plate 42:06 Final Thoughts and Encouragement - The Journey is the Reward 46:13 Outro: Own Your Story, Take the Lead, Let's Get Happy Connect with Aimee Gindin of The Full Plate: ✉️: hello@news.full-plate-nutrition.com 🌐: www.full-plate-nutrition.com 📱 Social Media: https://www.linkedin.com/company/full-plate-community/Connect with Happiness Unscripted: ✉️: happinessunscriptedpodcast@gmail.com 🎙️: https://happinessunscripted.buzzsprout.com On Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/61RuOPMxtnkZaGKtQTO1pm?si=e7bfd270bb7f489a On Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/happiness-unscripted/id1837486744 Also where you normally listen 👂 to podcasts! 📱 Social Media: facebook.com/HappinessUnscripted instagram.com/happinessunscripted/ Hey there friends! Just a friendly reminder that this podcast is all about sharing ideas and having fun conversations. I'm not an expert in this subject over here - jut a curious person exploring topics I find interesting. So please don't take anything said here as professional advice. When in doubt, chat with the real pros who know their stuff. Thanks for listening and hope you join us for the next episode! Now, let's dive in and get happy!

    48 min
  6. Embracing Career Change with Aimee Gindin: From Psychology to Corporate to Entrepreneur

    JAN 8

    Embracing Career Change with Aimee Gindin: From Psychology to Corporate to Entrepreneur

    Send a text In this episode of Happiness Unscripted, host Kristin DeSouza converses with Amy Gindin, the founder of Full Plate, about her remarkable professional journey and personal transformation. Amy describes her transition from a mental health clinician dealing with high-stress situations to a corporate marketing executive and finally to an intuitive eating counselor. Her path was marked by overcoming personal struggles and career dissatisfaction, combined with a quest for authentic living and fulfillment. Amy shares insights into the importance of following one's energy, rebuilding a healthy relationship with food, and the challenges of making significant life changes. Her story underscores that true happiness comes from aligning one's life with personal values and what genuinely nourishes the soul. 00:00 Intro: Happiness Unscripted 01:52 Introduction to Amy Gindin's Journey 03:16 Early Career and Shifts in Psychology 07:01 Transition to Marketing Executive 14:31 Climbing the Corporate Ladder 19:13 Pursuing Passion and Intuitive Eating 23:52 Reflections on Career and Happiness 28:45 Outro: Happiness Unscripted Connect with Aimee Gindin of The Full Plate: ✉️: hello@news.full-plate-nutrition.com 🌐: www.full-plate-nutrition.com 📱 Social Media: https://www.linkedin.com/company/full-plate-community/Connect with Happiness Unscripted: ✉️: happinessunscriptedpodcast@gmail.com 🎙️: https://happinessunscripted.buzzsprout.com On Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/61RuOPMxtnkZaGKtQTO1pm?si=e7bfd270bb7f489a On Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/happiness-unscripted/id1837486744 Also where you normally listen 👂 to podcasts! 📱 Social Media: facebook.com/HappinessUnscripted instagram.com/happinessunscripted/ Hey there friends! Just a friendly reminder that this podcast is all about sharing ideas and having fun conversations. I'm not an expert in this subject over here - jut a curious person exploring topics I find interesting. So please don't take anything said here as professional advice. When in doubt, chat with the real pros who know their stuff. Thanks for listening and hope you join us for the next episode! Now, let's dive in and get happy!

    31 min
  7. 12/31/2025

    Choosing Growth Over Comfort: Reflections from Kristin's Conversation with Kena Siu

    Send a text In the final episode of Season One of Happiness Unscripted, host Kristin DeSouza reflects on her impactful conversation with Kena Siu, the Empowerment Guide behind Midlife Butterfly and the host of Midlife Butterfly Podcast. Kristin discusses the key lessons she learned from Kena about self-love, radical acceptance, and the courage to grow beyond comfort. Key takeaways include the importance of accepting all parts of ourselves, becoming our own best friend, and the never-ending journey of personal evolution. Kena's journey through multiple personal transformations, including her reflections on self-compassion, somatic awareness, and the sacred nature of midlife, provides a rich source of inspiration for listeners. 00:00 Welcome 01:54 The Impact of Kena Siu's Journey 03:01 Self-Love and Acceptance 05:34 Becoming Your Own Best Friend 10:16 The Comfort Zone and Growth 18:13 Living Alone and Self-Discovery 24:15 Practical Self-Care Tips: Building habits one at a time 31:51 The Butterfly Metaphor and Transformation 38:03 Closing: Thank you and Season Two Preview Connect with Happiness Unscripted: ✉️: happinessunscriptedpodcast@gmail.com 🎙️: https://happinessunscripted.buzzsprout.com On Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/61RuOPMxtnkZaGKtQTO1pm?si=e7bfd270bb7f489a On Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/happiness-unscripted/id1837486744 Also where you normally listen 👂 to podcasts! 📱 Social Media: facebook.com/HappinessUnscripted instagram.com/happinessunscripted/ Hey there friends! Just a friendly reminder that this podcast is all about sharing ideas and having fun conversations. I'm not an expert in this subject over here - jut a curious person exploring topics I find interesting. So please don't take anything said here as professional advice. When in doubt, chat with the real pros who know their stuff. Thanks for listening and hope you join us for the next episode! Now, let's dive in and get happy!

    39 min
  8. 12/11/2025

    From Unclear to Purpose- Kristin's Lessons from Ashley Iduda's Journey

    Send a text In this episode of Happiness Unscripted, host Kristin DeSouza reflects on the inspiring journey of Ashley Iduda, who transitioned from a stay-at-home mom about to embark on a teaching career to her unscripted life filled with podcasting, makeup workshops, and coaching programs. Ashley's story emphasizes trusting oneself and taking the first step without seeing the entire path ahead. Kristin reflects on how her conversation with Ashley highlighted how embracing imperfections allows for authentic living and deeper fulfillment. By sharing her own experience, Ashley encouraged listeners to pursue their passions courageously and authentically. 00:00 Intro 00:54 Reflections from Ashley - First Steps 02:09 You can handle the challenge 03:13 You don't need to have it all figured out to begin 06:59 An Unexpected Outcome - Giving others permission to be themselves 09:56 Kristin's Self Reflection 12:47 Kristin's Wrap Up 15:08 Closing 15:55 Outro Connect with Happiness Unscripted: ✉️: happinessunscriptedpodcast@gmail.com 🎙️: https://happinessunscripted.buzzsprout.com On Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/61RuOPMxtnkZaGKtQTO1pm?si=e7bfd270bb7f489a On Apple Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/happiness-unscripted/id1837486744 Also where you normally listen 👂 to podcasts! 📱 Social Media: facebook.com/HappinessUnscripted instagram.com/happinessunscripted/ Hey there friends! Just a friendly reminder that this podcast is all about sharing ideas and having fun conversations. I'm not an expert in this subject over here - jut a curious person exploring topics I find interesting. So please don't take anything said here as professional advice. When in doubt, chat with the real pros who know their stuff. Thanks for listening and hope you join us for the next episode! Now, let's dive in and get happy!

    16 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Welcome to Happiness Unscripted with your host, Kristin DeSouza.Here, we are on a journey to build a deeply happy and joyful life.Here, I'll share stories about my journey, talk with people finding their way to a happy life and with experts in many areas of life - wellness, communication, relationships, career, and more. Join us on this journey to explore ways to take control of building a life you are genuinely joyful living!Let's go get happy!