Untamed and Unapologetic: Redefining Your Identity

Jeanette Lira
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Self-Improvement
  • Updated Weekly

Untamed and Unapologetic is a podcast by Jeanette Lira that empowers women to break free from societal norms, embrace their true selves, and live authentically. Through inspiring stories and interviews, the podcast encourages bold, unapologetic living. Tune in for real talk, personal growth insights, and a journey toward self-empowerment.

  1. 3d ago

    From Design to Adventure with Pamela Zoolalian

    In this conversation, Pamela takes us from her creative design career into the wild world of outdoor adventure guiding. But this isn't a typical career change story. This is about the mindset shift that makes the impossible feel inevitable. It's about facing the fears that keep so many women small and choosing adventure instead. She talks about the power of community, why your circle either lifts you up or holds you down, and how she built a movement called Adventure Her to help women reclaim their confidence, independence, and connection to the outdoors. If you've ever felt trapped by what you're supposed to do, questioned whether you're brave enough to try something completely different, or wondered if it's too late to reinvent yourself, this episode will light something up inside you. This is about owning your story. All of it. Pamela Zoolalian is an outdoor adventure guide, mindset coach, and founder of Adventure Her. She left her career in creative design to follow her passion for the outdoors and empowering women to step into their power through adventure. Pamela believes that the outdoors isn't just about hiking or climbing. It's about discovering who you really are when everything familiar is stripped away. She works with women who are ready to challenge themselves, confront their fears, and build unshakeable confidence. Connect with Pamela: Adventure Her: adventureher.com Email: theadventureher@gmail.com Why This Matters Right NowHow many of us are living someone else's definition of success? How many dreams are we putting on hold because we convinced ourselves they're not realistic, practical, or possible at our age or stage? Pamela's journey shows us something different: that your "crazy" idea might actually be your calling. That the fears keeping you stuck are worth examining. And that when you're surrounded by the right people who believe in you, the impossible starts looking a lot more possible. This isn't just about outdoor adventure. This is about what happens when you finally decide to be about your dreams instead of just talking about them. ResourcesAdventure Her: adventureher.com Contact Pamela: theadventureher@gmail.com Perfect ForWomen who feel stuck in their current life or careerAnyone considering a major change but afraid to take the leapWomen wanting to build confidence and independencePeople interested in outdoor activities but held back by fearAnyone ready to audit their circle and level up their relationshipsThose seeking permission to follow their heart Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Outdoor Empowerment 03:42 Mindset and Overcoming Fear 09:23 Personal Journey and Transformation 15:58 Curiosity and Lifelong Learning 20:47 The Impact of Community and Ageism 22:06 Embracing Change and Growth 23:33 The Shift in Passion and Career 25:19 Finding a New Voice in Writing 27:24 The Birth of Adventure Her 28:49 Empowering Women Through Mindset 30:02 Auditing Your Circle for Growth 35:00 Advice for Overcoming Stagnation 40:26 Outro.mp4 New episodes drop weekly. Subscribe to Untamed and Unapologetic for conversations that challenge, inspire, and help you own your story.

    41 min

  2. May 11

    From Stethoscope to Spreadsheets: How Carrie Cook Built an Empire by Mastering Money

    She saved lives in the operating room. Now she's saving businesses and the dreams of women entrepreneurs everywhere. Carrie Cook made an unconventional leap from medicine to finance, and what she discovered along the way will shatter everything you think you know about money, failure, and what it actually takes to build a business that lasts. In this raw, unapologetic conversation, Carrie pulls back the curtain on the brutal truth: Only 1 in 7 businesses survive past three years. But here's what separates the ones that do from the ones that don't and spoiler alert, it has nothing to do with luck. It's about understanding your numbers, confronting the shame that keeps women small, and building a financial foundation that actually works. If you've ever started a business, dreamed of scaling one, or wondered why financial literacy feels like a secret club you weren't invited to this episode is your initiation. Carrie doesn't just share her failures; she weaponizes them. And she's here to teach you how to do the same. About Carrie Cook: Carrie Cook is a fractional CFO, financial strategist, and unapologetic business mentor on a mission to close the financial literacy gap for women entrepreneurs. Her journey is anything but linear. After building a successful career in medicine, Carrie made the bold decision to pivot entirely not once, but multiple times into the world of finance and entrepreneurship. What followed was a masterclass in failure, resilience, and ultimately, mastery. Today, Carrie is the architect behind several thriving ventures including Sovereign Wealth (her flagship financial education and strategy platform), RainWealth Holding Company (a portfolio of purpose-driven businesses), and Provide Financials (dedicated to financial transparency). She also co-founded Clean Simple Books, recognizing that bookkeeping doesn't have to be complicated or intimidating. She's known for her no-nonsense approach, her ability to translate complex financial concepts into actionable strategies, and her unwavering belief that shame is the enemy of success and that every entrepreneur deserves access to the financial tools that have historically been gatekept. Carrie doesn't just teach profit strategy; she embodies what's possible when you refuse to stay small.  Connect with Carrie:   LinkedIn: [linkedin.com/in/carrie-cook](https://linkedin.com/in/carrie-cook)   Website: [sovereignwealth.com](https://sovereignwealth.com) About Untamed and Unapologetic: We are the podcast for women, entrepreneurs, and changemakers who refuse to play by someone else's rules. Every episode features unapologetic conversations with people who have chosen authenticity over comfort, bold action over safe choices, and real wealth (in every sense) over the illusion of security. No gatekeeping. No corporate speak. Just the unfiltered truth about what it takes to build something real. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Transformation 01:52 The Journey of Failure and Learning 06:05 Understanding Financial Literacy for Women 09:58 The Impact of Shame and Recovery 14:30 Embracing Risk and Wisdom 19:11 The Role of Support and Community 22:33 Building New Ventures and Profit Strategies 26:54 Key Takeaways for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

    30 min
  3. From Burnout to Balance: Unlocking Your Inner Power with Kim Newman

    May 4

    From Burnout to Balance: Unlocking Your Inner Power with Kim Newman

    What does it truly take to rise from burnout and step boldly into a life of purpose and joy? In this powerful episode of Untamed and Unapologetic, we sit down with the extraordinary Kim Newman, resilience coach, spiritual guide, and living proof that your greatest breakdown can become your most profound breakthrough. Kim takes us deep into her raw, unfiltered personal journey, from the crushing weight of burnout to discovering her soul's true calling. This is an honest, courageous exploration of what it means to strip away everything that no longer serves you and rebuild from a place of radical authenticity. Whether you are navigating exhaustion, searching for deeper meaning, or craving permission to live life on your own terms, this episode will meet you exactly where you are. 👩‍💼 About the Guest — Kim Newman:Kim Newman is a respected resilience coach, wellness advocate, and spiritual growth facilitator dedicated to helping high-achieving professionals reconnect with their authentic selves. After years of pouring herself into her career, Kim experienced burnout firsthand, a season that cracked her open in the most transformative way possible, becoming the foundation of everything she now teaches. Drawing from spiritual practices, psychological tools, and lived experience, Kim guides clients through life's most challenging transitions, helping them rediscover inner strength, embrace emotional depth, and lead with both empathy and expertise. She is known for her warm yet disarmingly direct approach and her unwavering belief that joy and creativity are not luxuries, they are our birthright. 🌐 www.kimnewman.com 💬 Powerful Sound Bites:"Life is about joy and creativity — when we forget that, we lose ourselves." "Don't run from your emotional lows. They are the soil your growth is planted in." "Bravery isn't the absence of fear — it's fear on a continuum. You take the next step anyway." ⏱️ Episode Chapters:Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Resilience and Wellness Coaching 02:29 The Journey Through Burnout 05:33 Exploring the Soul Journey 08:24 Breakthroughs and Trusting the Process 11:10 Returning to Roots and Family Dynamics 14:10 Merging Professionalism with Empathy 16:59 The Journey of Self-Discovery 18:37 Embracing Life's Transitions 21:24 Finding Perspective Through Change 24:13 The Role of Coaching in Personal Growth 28:07 Understanding Personal Evolution 29:51 The Importance of Bravery and Experimentation 🔑 Keywords:Resilience | Burnout Recovery | Spiritual Growth | Personal Development | Wellness Coaching | Mental Health | Transformation | Self-Awareness | Authentic Leadership | Soul Journey 📌 Resources:🌐 Kim Newman's Website: www.kimnewman.com If this conversation stirred something in you, share it with someone who needs it. Subscribe to Untamed and Unapologetic so you never miss a conversation that could change everything. 🔥

    31 min

  4. Mar 18

    Digging Into Yourself: How Archaeology Explains the Fluid Identity Women Never Talk About

    In this episode, Jeanette sits down with archaeologist and wellness advocate Celia Orsini to explore one of the most unexpected intersections you'll hear on this show, what ancient human artifacts, rituals, and community practices can teach modern women about identity, mental well-being, and personal transformation. Celia breaks down why identity isn't fixed, it's fluid, layered, and constantly being excavated. She shares how she runs archaeology-inspired wellness workshops and why food, objects, and shared cultural practices carry memory in ways we don't fully appreciate. If you've ever felt like you're still figuring out who you are — that's not a flaw. That's the work. In this episode: Why your identity is more like an archaeological dig than a destination How ancient community rituals map onto modern mental health Archaeology-inspired exercises you can do to explore your own identity today The intergenerational transmission of identity — and how to break unhealthy cycles Why curiosity is a survival skill for personal transformation Quotable moment: "Your identity is your own little art project." — Celia Orsini Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:28 Celia's Background and Interest in Archaeology 02:57 The Storytelling Power of Artifacts and Identity 05:33 The Fluid Nature of Identity and Archaeological Discoveries 07:27 Personal Transformation and the Role of Curiosity 10:59 Cultural Practices and Community Bonding in History 15:41 The Importance of Community Support and Connection 20:47 Archaeology and Wellness: Workshop Approaches 24:10 Building Identity and Cohesion Through Activities 30:08 Leadership, Empathy, and Personal Growth 36:37 Exercises to Explore Personal Identity 40:38 The Intergenerational Transmission of Identity 41:24 Closing Remarks and Future Connections

    35 min

  5. Feb 20

    Empowering Teens Through Family Involvement

    In this episode of Untamed and Unapologetic, Jeanette Lira interviews therapist Katie K. May, who shares her journey from struggling with self-destructive behaviors as a teenager to becoming a therapist specializing in high-risk teens. They discuss the importance of family involvement in therapy, the challenges of working with parents, and the personal experiences that shaped Katie's approach to mental health. Katie emphasizes the significance of creating a life worth living and the responsibility individuals have in their healing journey. The conversation also touches on the nuances of depression, identity shifts, and the power of validation in communication with teens. takeaways Katie K. May is a therapist specializing in high-risk teens.Family involvement is crucial in the therapeutic process.Therapists often lack training in engaging with parents.Personal struggles can lead to a passion for helping others.Creating a life worth living is essential for recovery.Depression can be managed through healthy coping strategies.Validation is key in communicating with struggling teens.Identity shifts can occur during significant life changes.Healing requires taking responsibility for one's own journey.It's important to keep moving towards what you want in life. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Katie K. May 04:54 The Importance of Family Involvement in Therapy 10:34 Personal Struggles and the Journey to Healing 19:37 Identity Shifts and New Beginnings 24:27 Taking Responsibility for Healing 28:33 Words of Wisdom for Parents and Teens 29:37 Outro.mp4

    30 min
  6. Breaking the Silence: A Journey from Darkness to Light in Mental Health

    Feb 14

    Breaking the Silence: A Journey from Darkness to Light in Mental Health

    Breaking the Silence: A Journey from Darkness to Light in Mental HealthIn the latest episode of Untamed and Unapologetic, host Jeanette Lira welcomes her first male guest, Reuben Escobedo, to share his powerful story of battling mental health struggles. Their conversation is not just a dialogue; it's a testament to the importance of vulnerability and connection in overcoming life's toughest challenges. Jeanette and Reuben's connection stems from their mutual involvement in mental health advocacy, particularly through a gathering led by Sinclair, where like-minded individuals could share experiences and insights. Reuben, a retirement plan manager and a volunteer with the National Alliance of Mental Illness, emphasizes how vital it is to have these connections, stating, "I love what she's doing here. Let's go." This spirit of encouragement is a recurring theme throughout their discussion. Reuben's journey took a dark turn after the unexpected loss of his mother-in-law to cancer. This event marked the beginning of a downward spiral into depression, compounded by pressures at work and the need to maintain a facade of strength for his family. He reflects, "I had to be strong for my wife, I had to be strong for my kids," showcasing how societal expectations can often trap individuals in a cycle of silence and suffering. The Silent Struggle: As Reuben withdrew from his loved ones, he felt the weight of self-doubt and guilt. "I'm experiencing stress from my boss," he explains, revealing how workplace dynamics can exacerbate personal struggles. His experiences resonate with many who feel overwhelmed yet reluctant to seek help, believing they must carry the burden aloneThe critical moment came when Reuben reached out to his therapist during a particularly dark time, poised on the brink of a decision that would change everything. "Let me just message her," he thought, which ultimately led to a virtual session that began to unravel the tangled web of his emotions. He acknowledges, "That was the turning point. The turning point was just me saying, maybe this isn't right." Through therapy, Reuben learned to articulate his feelings and confront his fears, which allowed him to reclaim his sense of self. He candidly describes how he had been rationalizing his pain and considering the idea that his family would be better off without him. But through the support of his therapist, he began to see a path forward. This journey underscores the importance of professional help in navigating mental health crises. Reuben's story is a poignant reminder that seeking help is not a sign of weakness but a courageous step towards healing. His journey from despair to recovery emphasizes the significance of connection, vulnerability, and professional support in overcoming mental health challenges. Key takeaways include the importance of speaking one's truth, the necessity of self-care, and the power of reaching out to others when in need. #MentalHealth #Therapy #PersonalGrowth #OvercomingAdversity #Connection #Resilience, #UntamedandUnapologetic #Grief #Recovery #Vulnerability

    42 min
  7. The Power of Mindset in Recovery

    Feb 3

    The Power of Mindset in Recovery

    In this episode of Untamed and Unapologetic, Jeanette Lira interviews Aimee, who shares her journey from a health crisis to personal empowerment. Aimee recounts her experience of having a stroke, the mindset shift that followed, and how she chose to prioritize her health and happiness. The conversation delves into the importance of self-care, navigating relationships, and the impact of family and loss. Aimee's story is one of resilience, highlighting the power of choosing oneself and the role of community support in healing. Takeaways Aimee and Jeanette's long-standing friendship began in a mental health group. Aimee experienced a stroke that changed her life perspective. Mindset is crucial during health crises; Aimee remained calm during her stroke. Faith and inner strength played a significant role in Aimee's recovery. Aimee chose to prioritize her health and happiness after her stroke. Navigating relationships can be challenging, especially for women. Aimee's father's health struggles impacted her deeply. Building a new life after trauma requires resilience and support. Aimee helps veterans through her massage therapy practice. Self-care is essential for caregivers and those experiencing loss. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:30 The Journey to Self-Discovery 03:18 Facing Adversity: The Stroke Experience 05:58 Mindset Shift and Recovery 08:20 The Power of Choice and Healing 11:29 Breaking the Karmic Cycle 13:43 Moving Forward and Embracing Change 16:06 Choosing Yourself: A Journey of Self-Discovery 20:05 Building a New Life: Embracing Change and Opportunity 21:53 The Healing Power of Massage Therapy 26:00 Navigating Grief: A Personal Reflection 27:22 Empowerment Through Fear: Overcoming Life's Challenges 30:09 Outro.mp4

    31 min
  8. Navigating Life's Unexpected Challenges

    12/25/2025

    Navigating Life's Unexpected Challenges

    In this episode, Jeanette Lira shares her personal journey through significant challenges and losses in 2025, including financial struggles and the impact of trauma. She emphasizes the importance of reframing failure, understanding the lessons from loss, and the power of mindset in overcoming adversity. Jeanette discusses how to rewire one's thinking to view setbacks as opportunities for growth and learning, ultimately leading to a more resilient and empowered self as she looks forward to 2026. Takeaways This year challenged me and forced me to be very uncomfortable.Hard work alone does not protect you from things you don't see coming.The loss that no one sees coming can be deeply impactful.Trauma lives in our body and doesn't go away easily.Failure isn't what happened; it's the meaning you assign to it.Loss with meaning becomes wisdom.I had to separate my identity from the outcome.Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.Comfort can stall your growth; discomfort can lead to transformation.Every major pivot in my life came from something falling apart. Chapters 00:00 Facing Unforeseen Challenges 02:35 The Impact of Loss 05:17 Navigating Business Struggles 08:12 Understanding Trauma and Its Effects 10:18 Rewiring Your Mindset 13:05 Lessons from Loss 15:26 Choosing Meaning Over Failure 18:06 Transforming Adversity into Growth 21:07 Embracing Change and Moving Forward 23:41 The Power of Asking for Help 25:51 Looking Ahead to 2026

    28 min
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About

Untamed and Unapologetic is a podcast by Jeanette Lira that empowers women to break free from societal norms, embrace their true selves, and live authentically. Through inspiring stories and interviews, the podcast encourages bold, unapologetic living. Tune in for real talk, personal growth insights, and a journey toward self-empowerment.

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