Balanced Living Unfiltered

Balance & Birch Virtual Wellness Center
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Health & Fitness
  • Updated Monthly

Welcome to Balanced Living Unfiltered, the podcast where the team at Balance & Birch shares real, raw, and unfiltered/unedited conversations about wellness, personal growth, and everything in between. Hosted by a rotating cast of our incredible staff members—including therapists, yoga instructors, personal trainers, and naturopathic doctors—each episode brings a unique perspective on how to navigate the challenges of living a balanced life in today’s busy world. In every monthly episode, we tackle a wide range of topics that matter to you. From mental health and self-care to relationships, physical wellness, and everything in between, Balanced Living Unfiltered is your go-to resource for honest, unfiltered conversations and practical tips. Throughout the series, different staff members will share their experiences and expertise, offering a variety of insights into topics like anxiety, trauma, sex therapy, mindfulness, nutrition, and more. True wellness is about more than just physical health—it’s about nourishing your mind, body, and spirit. No topic is off-limits, and we welcome listener input! Submit your questions, ideas, and topics for discussion. Whether you're curious about managing stress, exploring new wellness practices, or complaining about how difficult it is to be a person sometimes, our staff is here to provide authentic, relatable content that reflects the complexity of real life. Balanced Living Unfiltered isn’t just a podcast; it’s a supportive community where we explore what it truly means to live well, unfiltered. Episodes drop monthly, so make sure to subscribe and stay connected with us on social media for exclusive updates and special announcements. Join us as we redefine what it means to live a balanced life—because real wellness isn’t one-size-fits-all. Your journey to balanced living starts here.

  1. 4d ago

    Contentment vs Satisfaction

    🎙️Host: David Kopp Personal Trainer | Men’s Coach https://balanceandbirch.com/david/ ⭐️ Guest: JD Tremblay Director of High Performance and Mental Resilience Advisor at Hungry Warrior Academy Website https://hungrywarrioracademy.com/ https://www.instagram.com/hungrywarrioracademy/ https://www.tiktok.com/@hungrywarrioracademy https://www.youtube.com/@Hungry-Warrior-Academy https://www.facebook.com/people/Hungry-Warrior-Academy/61559051615885/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jd-tremblay-2b6215256/ JD Tremblay is the Director of High Performance and Mental Resilience Advisor at Hungry Warrior Academy. He understands firsthand what it takes to overcome extreme challenges and rebuild yourself to operate at a higher level. As an Integrated engineer, military veteran, naturopathic practitioner, and ultra-endurance athlete, he’s tested human limits in some of the toughest environments on the planet, including the EpicDeca, where he was one of only three people ever to complete 10 Ironman-distance triathlons in 10 consecutive days across six Hawaiian Islands. He doesn't just speak about pushing limits; he’s proven the science by testing human endurance at the highest level. That journey wasn’t just about physical strength; it was about mindset, purpose, and faith. It inspired JD to write the best-selling book: Hunger For More in Life, which looks at what it means to push beyond limits and overcome mental struggles. He dedicates his life to helping Christian men, like you, crush their battles and rediscover their God-given purpose. This latest episode features a conversation between David, our personal trainer with Balance and Birch, and JD Tremblay, the Director of High Performance and Mental Resilience Advisor at Hungry Warrior Academy. They discuss methodologies for achieving personal growth, maintaining discipline, and navigating the transition from structured environments, like the military, to civilian life. Key Takeaways: JD argues that while one can be content, experiencing life and remaining grounded regardless of current circumstances, one should never be fully satisfied, as there is always room to improve, achieve, and grow. They distinguish between fleeting feelings and regulated emotions. They suggest that basing decisions on an emotional state, which can be calculated and regulated, is more effective for long-term growth than reacting to temporary feelings. Military service provides an external authority structure, but transitioning to civilian life requires creating internal systems. They emphasize the importance of identifying and writing down personal values before setting goals to ensure one’s actions align with their purpose. Principles act as a foundation; adhering to them ensures that effort leads to meaningful results, regardless of whether those principles are secular or faith-based. They advocate for daily reflection, through meditation, prayer, and journaling, to reset, stay driven, and avoid "buying one's own lies" or falling back into old, negative patterns. Rather than letting shame lead to self-destruction or paralysis, JD suggests using it as a catalyst. By acknowledging negative experiences or past behaviors, one can channel that energy into constructive actions, such as physical training or philanthropic efforts, to produce positive outcomes. They agree that suffering is an inherent part of life. Maintaining a driven and faithful mindset allows one to "take it on the chin" and rationalize the challenges necessary to become a better person. David and JD share sentiment on the necessity of being serious about one's life, values, and goals. They stress the importance of having a clear, definitive path and the willingness to accept hard truths to foster continuous improvement. 🔔 Subscribe for More: Stay connected for insightful conversations on faith, mindset, mental health, wellness and personal growth. #MentalHealthAwareness #EmotionalWellness #BalanceAndBirch #Podcast #MindBodyConnection

    Contentment vs Satisfaction

  2. Jul 15

    The Shame & Stigma Surrounding Sexual Wellness

    🎙️Host: Dr. Rebecca “Emjay” Brown | Founder, Psychologist, Sexologist, Wellness Coach https://balanceandbirch.com/drbrown/ https://www.instagram.com/balanceandbirch https://www.linkedin.com/company/balance-and-birch ⭐️ Guest: Website https://www.promescent.com/B&B15 *First time customers/viewers can receive 15% off using this link! Instagram https://www.instagram.com/promescent/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Promescent/ Jeff Abraham is the CEO of Promescent, a leading sexual wellness brand focused on making intimacy solutions more accessible and effective. After discovering a groundbreaking treatment for premature ejaculation developed by urologist Dr. Ronald Gilbert, Jeff invested in the product and became the majority owner, launching the company’s flagship Delay Spray. Since relocating Promescent to Las Vegas in 2013, Jeff has expanded the brand into a full-spectrum sexual wellness company offering doctor-developed products for both men and women. Today, with over 5 million bottles sold and more than 4,000 healthcare professionals recommending the brand, Jeff continues to drive Promescent’s mission to improve intimate health and confidence. Description of this episode: This video features a conversation between host Dr. Rebecca Brown and guest Jeff Abraham, CEO of Promescent, focusing on sexual wellness, the stigma surrounding it, and the importance of open communication in relationships. Key themes from their discussion include: The Role of Media and Shame: The speakers discuss how media often misrepresents sexual norms, such as through pornography or unrealistic portrayals in entertainment, leading to unnecessary shame and anxiety for both men and women. The Arousal Gap and Unrealistic Expectations: A central topic is the "arousal gap," where men and women often have different physiological timelines for reaching climax. They emphasize that sex is not an "Olympic sport" and encourage moving away from goal-oriented performance toward pleasure-focused intimacy. The Importance of Communication: Both agree that communication is the most vital "tool" for sexual health. They argue that many perceived sexual problems are actually communication issues. Breaking the taboo of talking about needs, preferences, and discomfort allows partners to build trust and enjoy more satisfying intimacy. Addressing Sexual Dysfunction: Jeff discusses how his company, Promescent, aims to provide accessible solutions for issues like premature ejaculation and erectile dysfunction. He stresses that these are medical conditions—not character flaws—and that seeking help is as normal as treating any other health issue. The Value of Holistic Wellness: The conversation shifts to the idea that sexual wellness is interconnected with overall confidence, emotional health, and how one feels about themselves as a partner. They discuss how feeling desired and validated emotionally is a powerful form of "intellectual Viagra". We conclude with the discussion about the importance of running a business with integrity and purpose. Jeff shares his journey of expanding Promescent to offer a variety of wellness products and reiterates his commitment to helping customers achieve better intimacy through products that are clinically tested and supported by research. 🔔 Subscribe for More: Sex and intimacy doesn't need to be taboo! Enjoyed this conversation? Hit subscribe to stay connected to conversations around mental, physical and emotional health, wellness and personal growth. #MentalHealth #physicalhealth #EmotionalWellness #BalanceAndBirch #Podcast #MindBodyConnection #balance #mentalhealth #emotionalhealth #sex #sexualintamacy #sexualwellness

    The Shame & Stigma Surrounding Sexual Wellness

  3. Jul 1

    Movement & Mindfulness

    🎙️ Host: Iesha Glover Somatic Wellness Practitioner https://balanceandbirch.com/iesha/ The episode on our podcast explores the concept of mindfulness, challenging the traditional idea that it requires sitting perfectly still in a quiet environment. Instead, the speaker emphasizes that mindfulness is fundamentally about paying attention to the present moment on purpose, with kindness. While traditional stillness works for some, it can feel unsafe, frustrating, or impossible for others, including trauma survivors, neurodivergent individuals, or those with busy brains. Mindfulness should fit the individual's life rather than requiring them to conform to a specific, rigid expectation. Ways you can practice mindfulness: 🍃Walking Meditation: Walking slowly, matching breath to steps, or focusing on how the feet meet the ground and air feels on the skin. 🍃Trauma-Informed Yoga: Utilizing choice-based language and adaptable postures to focus on sensations and breath rather than achieving a "perfect" pose. 🍃Stretching or Shaking: Gentle movements of limbs to release tension and increase awareness of muscles and joints. 🍃Creative Movement/Dance: Moving or swaying to music to observe how the body responds to rhythm. 🍃Everyday Routines: Bringing full attention to sensory details during tasks like washing dishes, folding laundry, or watering plants. 🍃The "Moving Scan" Exercise: A three-to-five-minute grounding technique that can be performed while standing or walking: Look around and identify five things you see. Notice four things you feel. Listen for three things you can hear. Identify two things you can smell. Take one slow, full breath, noting any subtle tastes upon exhaling. 🍃Journaling Prompts: When you have felt most present and whether you were moving or still? What sensations signal that you need movement instead of stillness? How to integrate mindful movement into existing daily activities? 💬 Join the Conversation: What’s your favorite mindfulness practice? 🔔 Subscribe for More: Stay connected for insightful conversations on mindfulness, mental health, wellness and personal growth. #MentalHealthAwareness #HealingJourney #TraumaHealing #Neurodivergent #HolisticHealing #SomaticHealing #EmotionalWellness #SelfHealing #BalanceAndBirch #Podcast #MindBodyConnection #balance #Neurodivergence #mentalhealth #emotionalhealth #mindfulness #movement #mindful #journal #journaling #walking

    Movement & Mindfulness

  4. Jun 1

    Bridging the Gap Between Trauma & Neurodivergence

    🎙️ Host: Iesha Glover Somatic Wellness Practitioner https://balanceandbirch.com/iesha/ The latest episode on our podcast explores the intersection between neurodivergence and trauma, emphasizing the importance of understanding both to foster healing and self-compassion. Neurodivergence is an umbrella term for individuals whose brains function, process, or learn differently than what is considered typical.It is a natural variation of human brain function, not a disorder, and encompasses conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and others. Approximately 20% of the population is estimated to be neurodivergent. Neurodivergence exists on a spectrum regarding both diagnostic labels and individual lived experiences, with some people masking their true selves to fit in. Trauma is defined as the internal result of overwhelming external experiences, where the nervous system stores the stress when an individual is unable to cope. It can stem from events like accidents or assault, chronic stressors like bullying or oppression, or developmental and medical trauma. Trauma fundamentally changes how individuals interpret safety and interact with the world. Hiding one's true self to fit in takes a heavy psychological toll and can lead to complex trauma. Environments not designed for neurodivergent needs can make sensory input feel threatening or painful, leading to trauma, meltdowns, or hypervigilance.Being misunderstood or mislabeled during the diagnostic process, particularly for women, girls, and BIPOC individuals, can be traumatic. Individuals are often punished for neurodivergent traits they cannot control, such as stimming or needing extra time to process instructions. To create trauma-informed, neuro-affirming spaces, we suggest: 💚Acknowledging that both neurodivergence and trauma shape the nervous system. 💚Shifting from pathologizing traits to understanding neurodivergence as a way of being. 💚Offering choices and consent in classrooms, workplaces, and therapeutic settings. 💚Embracing regulation practices that are sensory-safe and accessible, rather than requiring stillness or silence. 💬 Join the Conversation: How has trauma or neurodivergence shaped your life? Share your experiences in the comments to support others. 🔔 Subscribe for More: Stay connected for insightful conversations on mental health, trauma, chronic illness, wellness and personal growth. #trauma #MentalHealthAwareness #HealingJourney #TraumaHealing #Neurodivergent #HolisticHealing #ReikiHealing #SomaticHealing #EmotionalWellness #SelfHealing #BalanceAndBirch #Podcast #MindBodyConnection #PTSD #traumaSupport #balance #Neurodivergence #mentalhealth #emotionalhealth

    Bridging the Gap Between Trauma & Neurodivergence

  5. May 22

    Grief Podcast Part 4: Maintaining a Connection with Loved Ones

    🎙️Host: Dr. Krista “Ollie” Hopkins Licensed Psychologist | Consultant | Wellness Coach https://balanceandbirch.com/drhopkins/ ⭐️Featuring: Allie Aschmann Hypnotherapist https://balanceandbirch.com/allie/ In this episode of the grief podcast, Dr. Krista “Ollie” Hopkins, a psychologist, interviews Allie, a hypnotist from her practice to discuss the expansive and complex nature of grief. We define grief as a deep, painful process of loss, noting that while people often associate it with the death of a person or pet, it also includes job loss, changes in life circumstances, and the loss of relationships. We emphasize that grief is inherently complex, often involving logistics, such as funeral arrangements or estate management, that can prevent people from fully processing their emotions. We discuss how, in a capitalistic society, people are often pressured to "self-abandon" or push grief aside to meet daily responsibilities. Allie shares her experience losing her "soul dog," Molly, and her father, both of which were deeply painful and brought on further layers of grief as she navigated life changes and family dynamics. Dr. Krista “Ollie” Hopkins shares her own grief journey following the loss of her dog, Ada, highlighting the solace found in memorializing her, even while managing guilt related to her own chronic illness. We express a spiritual belief in maintaining a connection with loved ones who have passed, whether through dreams, meditation, or the feeling of their continued spiritual presence. We discuss the limitations of traditional therapy for certain deep, spiritual-oriented losses and the value of alternative modalities. Allie explains how she uses wellness hypnotherapy to help clients create a "personal sanctuary," a safe space for processing emotions where they can invite their lost loved ones. 💬 You are not alone on this journey! If this conversation resonates with you, share your thoughts in the comments and connect with others on their healing journeys. 🔔 Subscribe for more conversations on mental health, holistic healing, and emotional well-being. #GriefHealing #MentalHealthAwareness #EmotionalWellness #TraumaHealing #LifeTransitions #ChronicIllnessAwareness #NeurodivergentSupport #SelfCompassion #PsychologyPodcast #HealingJourney #BalanceAndBirch #PersonalGrowth #connection

    Grief Podcast Part 4: Maintaining a Connection with Loved Ones

  6. May 15

    Grief Podcast Part 3: Stories of Loss, Healing, and Resilience

    🎙️Host: Dr. Krista “Ollie” Hopkins Licensed Psychologist | Consultant | Wellness Coach https://balanceandbirch.com/drhopkins/ Featuring: ⭐️Dee Williams Director of Operations https://balanceandbirch.com/dee/ ⭐️Gina Vitale Therapeutic Exercise Specialist https://balanceandbirch.com/gina/ ⭐️David Kopp Personal Trainer https://balanceandbirch.com/david/ In this heartfelt and deeply human conversation, psychologist Dr. Krista Ollie Hopkins of Balance and Birch invites her colleagues to explore the many dimensions of grief. From the loss of loved ones and cherished dreams to changes in health, identity, and life circumstances, this episode highlights how grief touches us all and how healing unfolds over time. Through powerful personal stories, the discussion reveals that grief isn’t limited to death. It can arise from failed aspirations, chronic illness, divorce, dementia, and life transitions. Together, the speakers examine how community, accountability, self-compassion, and meaningful coping strategies help transform pain into growth and resilience. This episode is a compassionate reminder that there is no timeline for grief, only a journey toward understanding, acceptance, and hope. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Why grief extends beyond physical loss How identity and life transitions shape our grieving process The importance of community, accountability, and support systems Healthy and meaningful ways to cope with loss How movement, creativity, and reflection aid emotional healing Why emotions are neutral—and how to determine what truly serves you 💬 Join the Conversation: How has grief shaped your life? Share your experiences in the comments to support and inspire others. 🔔 Subscribe for More: Stay connected for insightful conversations on mental health, trauma, chronic illness, and personal growth. #GriefHealing #MentalHealthAwareness #EmotionalWellness #TraumaHealing #LifeTransitions #ChronicIllnessAwareness #NeurodivergentSupport #SelfCompassion #PsychologyPodcast #HealingJourney #BalanceAndBirch #PersonalGrowth

    Grief Podcast Part 3: Stories of Loss, Healing, and Resilience

  7. May 8

    Grief Podcast Part 2: Personal Stories and Vulnerable Shares

    🎙️Host: Dr. Krista “Ollie” Hopkins Licensed Psychologist | Consultant | Wellness Coach https://balanceandbirch.com/drhopkins/ Featuring: ⭐️Dr. Ann Ijeh Naturopathic Doctor https://balanceandbirch.com/drijeh/ Grief is a universal yet deeply personal experience, and no two journeys look the same. In this heartfelt and vulnerable episode, Dr. Krista Ollie Hopkins, psychologist at Balance & Birch, leads an intimate conversation exploring the many layers of grief with Dr. Ann Ijeh, a naturopathic physician. Together, they share personal stories and professional insights on loss, healing, and resilience. From ambiguous grief and childhood experiences to the loss of loved ones and beloved pets, this powerful discussion sheds light on how grief shapes our lives and how we can navigate it with compassion and support. Whether you’re coping with loss, supporting someone who is grieving, or seeking a deeper understanding of emotional healing, this episode offers validation, guidance, and hope. In This Episode, We Explore: Different types of grief, including ambiguous and anticipatory grief The emotional and physical impact of loss Grieving chronic illness, identity, and life transitions Healthy coping strategies and the importance of therapy Honoring loved ones and finding meaning through remembrance Embracing vulnerability and healing through shared experiences 💬 You are not alone. If this conversation resonates with you, share your thoughts in the comments and connect with others on their healing journeys. 🔔 Subscribe for more conversations on mental health, holistic healing, and emotional well-being. #GriefSupport #MentalHealthAwareness #HealingJourney #HolisticHealth #EmotionalWellness #TherapyMatters #BalanceAndBirch #GriefHealing #Podcast #PersonalGrowth

    Grief Podcast Part 2: Personal Stories and Vulnerable Shares

  8. May 1

    Grief Podcast Part 1: Understanding Grief: Healing Through Loss, Trauma, and Transformation

    Host: Dr. Krista “Ollie” Hopkins Licensed Psychologist | Consultant | Wellness Coach https://balanceandbirch.com/drhopkins/ Featuring: Iesha Glover Somatic Wellness Practitioner https://balanceandbirch.com/iesha/ Jennifer Lee Reiki Practitioner https://balanceandbirch.com/jennifer/ Grief is more than the loss of a loved one, it’s a deeply personal and multifaceted experience that touches every aspect of our lives. In this heartfelt and insightful conversation, the practitioners of Balance and Birch explore the many forms of grief and how it shapes our identities, relationships, and healing journeys. Join psychologist Dr. Ollie Hopkins, trauma-informed somatic yoga instructor Iesha, and Reiki practitioner Jennifer Lee as they share professional insights and personal stories. Together, they discuss grief related to neurodivergence, chronic illness, trauma, cultural identity, and profound personal loss, offering compassionate perspectives and powerful tools for healing. In this episode, you’ll discover: The hidden and misunderstood forms of grief How late-in-life neurodivergent diagnoses can reshape identity The emotional impact of chronic illness and trauma Cultural, ancestral, and generational grief The mind-body connection in healing through somatic practices How Reiki, therapy, and holistic approaches support emotional well-being Why there is no “right” way or timeline to grieve This meaningful discussion reminds us that grief is not something to “get over,” but something we learn to move through with grace, support, and compassion. 💬 Whether you’re navigating loss, seeking understanding, or supporting someone on their healing journey, this conversation offers validation, hope, and connection. 🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations on mental health, trauma healing, and holistic wellness.

    Grief Podcast Part 1: Understanding Grief: Healing Through Loss, Trauma, and Transformation
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Welcome to Balanced Living Unfiltered, the podcast where the team at Balance & Birch shares real, raw, and unfiltered/unedited conversations about wellness, personal growth, and everything in between. Hosted by a rotating cast of our incredible staff members—including therapists, yoga instructors, personal trainers, and naturopathic doctors—each episode brings a unique perspective on how to navigate the challenges of living a balanced life in today’s busy world. In every monthly episode, we tackle a wide range of topics that matter to you. From mental health and self-care to relationships, physical wellness, and everything in between, Balanced Living Unfiltered is your go-to resource for honest, unfiltered conversations and practical tips. Throughout the series, different staff members will share their experiences and expertise, offering a variety of insights into topics like anxiety, trauma, sex therapy, mindfulness, nutrition, and more. True wellness is about more than just physical health—it’s about nourishing your mind, body, and spirit. No topic is off-limits, and we welcome listener input! Submit your questions, ideas, and topics for discussion. Whether you're curious about managing stress, exploring new wellness practices, or complaining about how difficult it is to be a person sometimes, our staff is here to provide authentic, relatable content that reflects the complexity of real life. Balanced Living Unfiltered isn’t just a podcast; it’s a supportive community where we explore what it truly means to live well, unfiltered. Episodes drop monthly, so make sure to subscribe and stay connected with us on social media for exclusive updates and special announcements. Join us as we redefine what it means to live a balanced life—because real wellness isn’t one-size-fits-all. Your journey to balanced living starts here.

Information

  • Creator
    Balance & Birch Virtual Wellness Center
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    26
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Show Website
    Balanced Living Unfiltered