Real Chat with Kat

Kat Polsinelli

Welcome to Real Chat with Kat — the podcast that’s all about real conversations for real transformation. I’m your host, Kat Polsinelli, and here we tackle the tough stuff — the pivots, the challenges, and the victories that shape our lives and businesses. From overcoming trauma and finding your voice to navigating life’s unexpected twists, we get raw, honest, and open with inspiring guests who share their stories of resilience, healing, and growth. Whether it’s breaking through emotional abuse, embracing self-worth, or thriving in entrepreneurship, you’ll find connection, empowerment, and tools to keep moving forward. So grab your favorite drink, settle in, and get ready for stories that hit home and conversations that make a difference. Let’s get real — together!

  1. 1D AGO

    How to Reprogram Your Subconscious Mind After Trauma & Abuse w/ Dana Diaz

    In this episode: We dive deep into the journey of healing from abuse and reclaiming personal power. Dana Diaz shares how trauma and subconscious beliefs—formed as early as age 7—can shape your reality and keep you stuck in unhealthy patterns long after the abuse has ended. Together, we explore the science of neuroplasticity and the brain’s Reticular Activating System (RAS), which filters experiences to reinforce familiar beliefs. This episode provides actionable insights on how to consciously interrupt old patterns, reprogram limiting beliefs, and create new pathways for growth and empowerment.   Meet my guest: Joining me is Dana Diaz, a bestselling author, global speaker, and entrepreneur who transformed her life after 25 years of abuse and a stress-induced autoimmune diagnosis. Dana shares her personal story of overcoming systemic failures, breaking free from trauma, and intentionally rebuilding her life. She offers practical strategies for using subconscious reprogramming and neuroscience to reclaim power, heal, and thrive. Her journey from survivor to empowered leader is a testament to the possibility of transformation, and her insights will inspire anyone looking to change the trajectory of their own life.   Quote/Piece of Advice: You don’t see change if we don’t make people uncomfortable.   Connect with Dana: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, YouTube, Website To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli   My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com   Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect

    43 min
  2. MAR 20

    How Sawyer Products Is Changing Lives with Clean Water Solutions w/ Kurt Avery

    In this episode: We dive into the inspiring story of how Sawyer Products has grown from a small camping gear startup into a global leader in water filtration, insect repellent, and outdoor protection. From innovative, life-saving products to humanitarian missions impacting over 80 countries, this episode highlights how purpose-driven business can create real-world change. We explore the science behind their products, the development of affordable solutions for those who need them most, and the ways a company can leave a lasting humanitarian legacy.   Meet my guest: Joining me is Kurt Avery, founder and president of Sawyer Products. Kurt is a visionary entrepreneur, a humanitarian leader, and an innovator passionate about using business to make a difference. He shares stories of the incredible impact Sawyer’s products have had on communities around the world, insights into building a mission-driven team, and his philosophy on leadership and creating a sustainable, purpose-focused business. This conversation is full of inspiration, practical wisdom, and a reminder that one person’s vision can touch millions of lives.   Quote/Piece of Advice: You have one asset in life, don’t ever give it up, and that’s your integrity.   Connect with Kurt: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, YouTube, Website   To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli   My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com   Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect

    50 min
  3. MAR 13

    Question the Hustle, Crave more Meaning w/ Camille Miller

    In this episode: We dive into the paradigm shift from corporate hustle to soul-led entrepreneurship. From the rise of micro-entrepreneurs to the power of authenticity in today’s noisy marketing world, Camille L. Miller shares practical strategies for building a purpose-driven business that aligns with your values and lifestyle. We explore the importance of deep inner work, lifestyle-first business design, and tracking progress with KPIs — all while staying true to who you are. Camille also discusses how combining spirituality and science can fuel both fulfillment and productivity, giving listeners actionable insights to step into their own soul-aligned work. Meet my guest: Camille L. Miller is a 3x bestselling author, founder of the Soul Professional Movement, and a sought-after Business Designer & Strategist. She is dedicated to helping soul-led entrepreneurs around the world design businesses that reflect their values and purpose. With her experience guiding individuals from corporate careers to fulfilling, purpose-driven ventures, Camille shares wisdom, strategies, and stories that inspire entrepreneurs to build businesses that truly align with their lives, passions, and legacy. Quote/Piece of Advice: Show up as you, not a mask, not I’m pretending, not the professional you think people want to see, but you. Connect with Camille LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/camillelmiller/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/camille.l.miller.mba Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@camillelmiller Website: https://www.soulprofessional.com/   To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect

    52 min
  4. MAR 6

    Breaking the Dependency Cycles for Single Moms w/ Jillian Putman

    In this episode: We dive into an inspiring conversation about breaking cycles of dependency and building lasting independence for single mothers. From family-first employment models to sustainable nonprofit funding, this episode explores how compassionate, proactive support can create real, long-term change. You’ll hear practical examples of how systems can be redesigned to empower women, foster confidence, and provide a path toward true self-sufficiency.   Meet my guest: Jillian Putman is the Founder & CEO of three mission-driven ventures transforming the way single mothers build independence. Through Sassie Scrubbers, she provides flexible, family-first employment; with Moving Onward, Moms, she offers holistic support that addresses root causes instead of quick fixes; and her coffee company, Mystic Mug, funds the nonprofit, creating a sustainable model for impact. Jillian’s approach, which she calls “aggressive help,” combines bold vision, compassion, and strategy to empower women to thrive in every aspect of their lives.   Quote/Piece of Advice: When you have something that you love and that feels very in flow, it’s easy for you to show up and do it.   Websites: www.mysticmug.shop www.movingonwardmoms.com   To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli   My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com   Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect

    51 min
  5. FEB 27

    Trauma Bonding, Self-Sabotage, and Deep Healing with Karen Whelan

    Meet my guest: Returning to continue our powerful conversation is Karen Whelan — psychotherapist, M.A. in Spirituality, five-time international best-selling author, global speaker, and founder of SOULution Therapy. With more than 14 years of experience guiding individuals, couples, teens, and organizations through transformational healing, Karen blends research, spirituality, and deep psychological insight to help people reconnect with their inherent worth and inner power.   In this episode: In Part 2 of our conversation, we go even deeper into the roots of trauma and self-hate, exploring the concept of the “God-shaped hole” — the internal void created when we disconnect from our inherent value. Karen shares how this unhealed space often manifests as self-sabotage, trauma-bonded relationships, addiction, overachievement, or a persistent sense of emptiness.   We also discuss the profound ripple effect of individual healing, the transformative power of Ho’oponopono and the work of Dr. Ihaleakala Hew Len, and insights from leaders like Gabor Maté and Viktor Frankl. This episode invites you to move beyond surface-level self-care into deep self-love — the kind that repairs, reconnects, and reshapes not only your inner world, but the way you experience everything around you. Quote/Piece of Advice: Without connection to self, this world that we have to navigate becomes too much.   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/the-soulution-therapist-732b4817 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.soulution.therapist Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1RRvA5qy9f/?mibextid=wwXIfr Website: www.soukutiontherapy.com   To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli   My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com   Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect

    47 min
  6. FEB 20

    From Stuck to Unstoppable: Breaking Through Fear, Judgment & Hidden Trauma

    In this episode: This special blended episode brings together powerful moments from three unforgettable conversations centered around courage, growth, and reinvention. We explore what it really means to face fear head-on, take radical responsibility for your personal development, and embrace transformation at any stage of life. From overcoming self-doubt and burnout to shifting your mindset and choosing healing, this episode weaves together wisdom that reminds us growth isn’t linear — and reinvention is always available. If you’ve been navigating change, craving clarity, or ready to step into your next level, this conversation delivers powerful perspective and practical inspiration.   Meet my guests: This episode features three incredible returning guests. Lynda Sunshine West shares her bold journey of facing 365 fears in 365 days and inspiring others to take action despite fear. Ana Sasmiresan brings her expertise in leadership and transformation, emphasizing the power of meaningful conversations and personal responsibility in growth. Brigette Sobus reveals how mindset, healing, and inner work can turn life’s greatest challenges into catalysts for reinvention. Together, their stories create a powerful reminder that courage, ownership, and resilience can reshape both your life and your leadership.   Want the full story? Listen to the complete episodes here:   Lynda Sunshine https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/from-fearful-to-fearless-lynda-sunshine-wests-bold-journey/id1652097553?i=1000687461017   Ana Sasmiresan https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/transform-your-life-one-conversation-at-a-time-w/id1652097553?i=1000689938120   Brigette Sobus https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-secret-to-reinventing-your-life-at-any-age-w/id1652097553?i=1000694709021   Connect with Lynda Sunshine Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lyndasunshinewest Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lyndasunshinewest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lyndasunshinewest Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ActionTakersPublishing   Connect with Ana Sasmiresan LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anasasmiresan/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ana.sasmiresan/   Connect with Brigette Sobus LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brigettesobus/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brigettesobus/ Website: https://powerandjoycoachingacademy.com/   To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli   My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com   Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect

    58 min
  7. FEB 13

    Why High-Achieving Women Feel Stuck w/ Zerina Derveni

    In this episode: We dive into what happens when high-achieving women realize that the version of success they’ve been chasing no longer fits who they are becoming. Feeling “stuck” isn’t failure — it’s a signal for an upgrade. Zerina and I explore the messy but necessary process of unlearning old habits, how to identify and live by your core values, and why redefining success around fulfillment and intention can completely transform your life. We also discuss how personal growth is non-linear, why burnout is often misdirected energy, and how embracing uncertainty can become a source of strength. Meet my guest: Zerina Derveni is a life coach and founder of Zerina Life Coach, where she supports high-achieving women in reconnecting with themselves beyond burnout, people-pleasing, and external expectations. Her work focuses on emotional regulation, self-trust, and aligned decision-making, helping women navigate life transitions with clarity, confidence, and purpose. In this episode, Zerina shares her wisdom on creating a value-driven life, building resilience, and living intentionally in alignment with what truly matters. Quote/Piece of Advice: Uncertainty is the number one thing that does not change. We will always live in uncertain times. It's just the reality of life. Connect with Zerina: LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/zerina-derveni-64687386 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zerinalifecoach Website: https://www.zerinalifecoach.com/ To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect

    49 min
  8. FEB 6

    Why Your Body Is Asking You to Slow Down w/ Maria Angelova

    In this episode: We dive deep into the mind-body connection and explore why so many high-achievers and adults are living in constant stress, tension, or pain—and calling it “normal.” Maria Angelova shares practical strategies to reclaim vitality, regulate your nervous system, and rewire old patterns that no longer serve you. From recognizing the body’s signals to shifting from survival mode to creativity, clarity, and calm, this episode is a guide to thriving, not just surviving.   Meet my guest: Maria Angelova is the Founder and CEO of Rebellious Intl., where she helps high-achieving professionals reconnect with their bodies, reset their nervous systems, and reclaim energy, focus, and calm. With her science-backed, soul-led Angelova Method, she empowers people to listen to their bodies, transform old habits, and embrace small, consistent steps for lasting change. Maria’s grounded, insightful, and empowering approach makes this episode a must-listen for anyone ready to challenge the “normalized” suffering of burnout, pain, and stress.   Quote/Piece of Advice: We are meant to thrive in body, in mind, and spirit.   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariamangelova/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mind.body.expert Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@themindbodyexpert TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mindbodyexpert Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maria.angelova.39750/   To connect with your host Kat: @TheLotusEffect or @KatPolsinelli   My Website: www.the-lotus-effect.com   Subscribe to my Youtube Channel 👇 https://www.youtube.com/@the-lotus-effect

    53 min
5
out of 5
30 Ratings

About

Welcome to Real Chat with Kat — the podcast that’s all about real conversations for real transformation. I’m your host, Kat Polsinelli, and here we tackle the tough stuff — the pivots, the challenges, and the victories that shape our lives and businesses. From overcoming trauma and finding your voice to navigating life’s unexpected twists, we get raw, honest, and open with inspiring guests who share their stories of resilience, healing, and growth. Whether it’s breaking through emotional abuse, embracing self-worth, or thriving in entrepreneurship, you’ll find connection, empowerment, and tools to keep moving forward. So grab your favorite drink, settle in, and get ready for stories that hit home and conversations that make a difference. Let’s get real — together!

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