The Expanding Soul

Kristen

Hey! I’m Kristen and this is The Expanding Soul - a place where we explore growth, healing, and what it really means to become the best version of ourselves. This is a reflective podcast about expanding our souls and consciousness. Each episode is an honest conversation about growth - healing trauma, calming the nervous system, relationships, meaning, manifestation, science and the strange experience of being alive in a complicated world. This isn’t self-help from someone who has it all figured out. It’s a place where we can be our honest selves and learn together.

Episodes

  1. 2D AGO

    Why Time Feels Faster As You Get Older | Science, Psychology & The Universe Explained

    Hi Friend, What is time… really? Why does childhood feel endless… while adulthood seems to disappear in the blink of an eye? Why do joyful moments pass so quickly, while painful ones seem to last forever? And is time actually as fixed as we think it is? In this episode of The Expanding Soul, I'm exploring the science of time, Einstein’s theory of relativity, spacetime, memory, perception, and the psychology behind why life feels faster as we get older. We talk about:• The science of time and spacetime• How gravity and speed affect time• Why time is relative• Why childhood feels longer than adulthood• How your brain experiences time• Why routines make life feel faster• The connection between memory, emotion, and perception• How to create a life that feels fuller and more meaningful This episode blends science, psychology, philosophy, and spirituality into a grounded conversation about what it really means to experience time as a human being. If you’ve ever felt like life is moving too fast… this episode is for you. If you enjoy conversations about healing, growth, consciousness, science, spirituality, emotional intelligence, and the mysteries of the universe — make sure to follow The Expanding Soul for new episodes every week. Love, Kristen References: Einstein Online. “Does Time Pass at the Same Rate for Everyone?” Stanford University, https://einstein.stanford.edu/content/relativity/q411.html. Accessed 7 May 2026. Department of Energy Office of Science. “DOE Explains... Relativity.” U.S. Department of Energy, https://www.energy.gov/science/doe-explainsrelativity. Accessed 7 May 2026. University of California, Berkeley. “Why Are Tatooine Planets Rare? Blame General Relativity.” UC Berkeley News, 30 Jan. 2026, https://news.berkeley.edu/2026/01/30/why-are-tatooine-planets-rare-blame-general-relativity/#:~:text=Based%20on%20dynamic%20modeling%2C%20general,by%20one%20of%20the%20stars. Accessed 7 May 2026. National Aeronautics and Space Administration. “What Happens When Something Gets Too Close to a Black Hole?” NASA Science, https://science.nasa.gov/universe/what-happens-when-something-gets-too-close-to-a-black-hole/. Accessed 7 May 2026. Wang, Jing, et al. “Time Perception and the Human Brain.” National Library of Medicine, PMC, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11336052/. Accessed 7 May 2026. McGovern Institute for Brain Research. “Tracking Time in the Brain.” Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 15 Sept. 2021, https://mcgovern.mit.edu/2021/09/15/tracking-time-in-the-brain/. Accessed 7 May 2026. Wittmann, Marc. “The Inner Experience of Time.” National Library of Medicine, PMC, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4830363/. Accessed 7 May 2026. Burkeman, Oliver. “How to Alter the Passage of Time to Feel Fast or Slow.” Psyche, https://psyche.co/guides/how-to-alter-the-passage-of-time-to-feel-fast-or-slow. Accessed 7 May 2026. Greater Good Magazine. “How to Feel Like You Have More Time.” Greater Good Science Center at the University of California, Berkeley, https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/how_to_feel_like_you_have_more_time. Accessed 7 May 2026.

    25 min
  2. What ‘Raising Your Vibration’ Actually Means (Science + Spirituality)

    APR 27

    What ‘Raising Your Vibration’ Actually Means (Science + Spirituality)

    Hello my friends 🤍 In today’s episode, we’re diving into the idea that “everything is frequency” — but what does that actually mean? We’ll explore what frequency is from a science perspective, how it shows up in the universe, and how it exists within your own body through things like brainwaves, sound, and energy. This episode covers: what frequency is and how it’s measured (in Hertz)how frequency exists in sound waves, light waves, and the electromagnetic spectrumthe Earth’s natural frequencies (Schumann resonances)how brainwaves relate to different mental and emotional states- why sound healing and singing bowls can feel so powerfuland what people really mean when they talk about “raising your vibration”This isn’t about telling you what to believe — it’s about understanding both the science and the experience, and finding a grounded way to look at both. Because maybe “raising your frequency” isn’t about becoming something new… Maybe it’s about understanding the rhythms you’re already a part of. Love, Kristen References: “Frequency.” Earthguide, University of California San Diego, https://earthguide.ucsd.edu/wav/frequency.html. Accessed 21 Apr. 2026. “Frequency (Physics).” Encyclopaedia Britannica, https://www.britannica.com/science/frequency-physics. Accessed 21 Apr. 2026. “How Fast Does the Milky Way Rotate?” EarthSky, https://earthsky.org/astronomy-essentials/milky-way-rotation/. Accessed 21 Apr. 2026. “Intermolecular Forces.” Purdue University, https://www.chem.purdue.edu/gchelp/liquids/character.html. Accessed 21 Apr. 2026. “Schumann Resonance Forecast.” Meteoagent, https://meteoagent.com/schumann-resonance-forecast. Accessed 21 Apr. 2026. “Schumann Resonances and Human Health.” PubMed, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40394813/. Accessed 21 Apr. 2026. “Brain Waves.” Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, https://nin.nl/about-the-brain/brain-waves/. Accessed 21 Apr. 2026. “Human Body Resonance Study.” National Center for Biotechnology Information, https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4594250/. Accessed 21 Apr. 2026. “Resonance.” Georgia State University, http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/Sound/reson.html. Accessed 21 Apr. 2026. “How Music Resonates in the Brain.” Harvard Medical School, https://magazine.hms.harvard.edu/articles/how-music-resonates-brain. Accessed 21 Apr. 2026. “Neural Effects of Music.” ScienceDirect, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0028393217300039. Accessed 21 Apr. 2026. The Map of Consciousness Explained. David R. Hawkins, https://byrdsbooks.com/book/9781401959647. Accessed 21 Apr. 2026. “Levels of Consciousness.” The Joy Within, https://thejoywithin.org/spirituality/the-levels-of-consciousness-with-david-r-hawkins. Accessed 21 Apr. 2026. “38 Ways to Raise Your Frequency.” Caricole, https://caricole.com/38-ways-to-raise-your-frequency-and-reach-a-higher-level-of-consciousness/. Accessed 21 Apr. 2026. “Self-Therapy.” Manhattan Mental Health Counseling, https://manhattanmentalhealthcounseling.com/self-therapy-can-you-heal-yourself-without-a-therapist/. Accessed 21 Apr. 2026.

    52 min
  3. APR 13

    What Trauma Actually Does to Your Brain (And Why You Still Feel It)

    Hello Love, Have you ever reacted to something and immediately thought, “Why did I do that?” In this episode of The Expanding Soul, I'm diving into the science behind trauma — and how it actually changes your brain and body. Because the truth is… you’re not broken. Your brain is doing exactly what it was designed to do: protect you. We’ll explore how trauma impacts the nervous system, why your body can stay stuck in “survival mode” long after the danger has passed, and what’s really happening when you feel triggered, anxious, or overwhelmed. You’ll learn about the roles of different parts of the brain, how your body stores stress, and why certain patterns can feel so hard to break — even when you’re actively trying to heal. This episode is here to help you understand yourself on a deeper level… with more compassion, more clarity, and less self-blame. Because once you understand what’s happening inside you… you can begin to change your relationship with it. ✨ You are not too sensitive. ✨ You are not overreacting. ✨ You are responding exactly how your nervous system was shaped to respond. And healing is possible. — If this episode resonates with you, feel free to share it with someone who might need it 🤍 And if you’re enjoying The Expanding Soul, leaving a review helps this message reach more people. I’m so grateful you’re here. Love, Kristen References: World Health Organization. “Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.” World Health Organization, https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/post-traumatic-stress-disorder. American Association of Christian Veterans and Families. “How Does Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Change the Brain?” AACVFA, https://www.aacvfa.org/content/Chaplain/How%20does%20Post%20Traumatic%20Stress%20Disorder%20Change%20the%20Brain.pdf. Insights Psychology. “Psychology of Healing: Brain Recovery.” Insights Psychology, https://insightspsychology.org/psychology-of-healing-brain-recovery/. Mayo Clinic Staff. “Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Symptoms and Causes.” Mayo Clinic, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/post-traumatic-stress-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20355967. Cleveland Clinic. “Cortisol.” Cleveland Clinic, https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/22187-cortisol. Harvard Health Publishing. “Understanding the Stress Response.” Harvard Medical School, https://www.health.harvard.edu/healthy-aging-and-longevity/understanding-the-stress-response. The Dysautonomia Project. “Dysautonomia.” The Dysautonomia Project, https://thedysautonomiaproject.org/dysautonomia/. Elsevier (ScienceDirect). Article on dysautonomia / autonomic nervous system disorders. ScienceDirect, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2666084925025562. Cleveland Clinic. “Dysautonomia.” Cleveland Clinic, https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/6004-dysautonomia.

    38 min
  4. APR 7

    Why You Keep Sabotaging Yourself (And How to Finally Stop)

    Hello you beautiful souls 🤍 Welcome back to The Expanding Soul — a space where we explore growth, healing, and what it really means to become the best version of ourselves. Have you ever noticed how your mind can take one small moment… and turn it into a full story about who you are? In this episode, we’re diving deep into limiting beliefs — those quiet, often unconscious thoughts that tell you: “I’m not good enough”“I’ll never figure it out”“Something is wrong with me”But here’s the truth: Most of these thoughts aren’t facts… they’re stories we created in emotional moments and carried as truth. We’ll explore: ✨ How your brain (including your Reticular Activating System) reinforces what you believe ✨ Where limiting beliefs come from (childhood, trauma, conditioning, somatic memory) ✨ Why healing isn’t about avoiding pain — but transforming it ✨ A powerful 5-step process to start rewiring your beliefs: AwarenessSeparationReframingEvidence-buildingReinforcementPlus, I’ll walk you through a guided journaling exercise you can use to start shifting your mindset today. Because the more we heal… the less we suffer. And the more we believe in ourselves… the more becomes possible. Your future self — the one without constant doubt — is worth fighting for. 🤍 If this episode resonates with you, share it with someone who might need it, and don’t forget to leave a review — it truly means the world. Love, Kristen REFERENCES “What Is Somatic Memory? Bridging Mind and Body.” Trauma Therapist Institute, www.traumatherapistinstitute.com/blog/What-is-Somatic-Memory-Bridging-Mind-and-Body. Accessed 6 Apr. 2026.Motwani, Sonia. “Journaling Through Limiting Beliefs.” Sonia Motwani, www.soniamotwani.com/journaling-through-limiting-beliefs/. Accessed 6 Apr. 2026.“False Beliefs: What They Are and How to Change Them.” PositivePsychology.com, www.positivepsychology.com/false-beliefs/. Accessed 6 Apr. 2026.“Overcoming Self-Limiting Beliefs.” Psychology Today, Nov. 2023, www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/empower-your-mind/202311/overcoming-self-limiting-beliefs. Accessed 6 Apr. 2026.“Limiting Beliefs: Examples and How to Overcome Them.” Sumeeta Seeks, www.sumeetaseeks.com/health-and-wellness/limiting-beliefs-examples. Accessed 6 Apr. 2026.

    27 min
  5. MAR 24

    The 12 Universal Laws Explained in a Way That Actually Makes Sense

    Hey friends! This episode is a little longer, but it's packed full of information. We talked about the science of manifestation last time, so this time I wanted to focus on the non-science side of things. In this episode, I dive deep into the 7 Hermetic Principles and the 12 Universal Laws of Manifestation that were derived from them. You'll also hear about: Letting go of perfectionismDefining your core valuesMindset, energy and personal responsibilityHealing, growth and embracing changeIf you’re growing, healing, questioning, or just trying to figure things out… you’re in the right place. And I couldn't be happier that you're here. With Love, Kristen REFERENCES: “The Kybalion: Chapter 3.” Sacred Texts, n.d., https://sacred-texts.com/eso/kyb/kyb03.htm“The Hermetic Principle of Mentalism: Mastering Reality Through the Power of the Mind.” Mistikist, n.d., https://mistikist.com/the-hermetic-principle-of-mentalism-mastering-reality-through-the-power-of-the-mind/“Correspondence.” The Realized Man, n.d., https://therealizedman.com/correspondence/“Vibration.” The Realized Man, n.d., https://therealizedman.com/vibration/Bonbrake, Kyle. “The Principle of Polarity.” Kyle Bonbrake, n.d., https://www.kylebonbrake.com/post/the-principle-of-polarityAlthuis, Robert. “The Principle of Rhythm.” Medium, n.d., https://robertalthuis.medium.com/the-principle-of-rhythm-bcd4e949cd00“Cause and Effect.” The Realized Man, n.d., https://therealizedman.com/cause-and-effect/Althuis, Robert. “The Principle of Gender.” Medium, n.d., https://robertalthuis.medium.com/the-principle-of-gender-2abc0b3dde24“Gender.” The Realized Man, n.d., https://therealizedman.com/gender/“12 Universal Laws.” Wellismo, n.d., https://wellismo.com/12-universal-laws/“The Law of Divine Oneness.” The Modern Manifestation, n.d., https://www.themodernmanifestation.com/post/law-of-divine-onenessNorton, John D. “Quantum Theory: Waves.” University of Pittsburgh, n.d., https://sites.pitt.edu/~jdnorton/teaching/HPS_0410/chapters/quantum_theory_waves/index.html“Quantum Physics and Consciousness.” PubMed Central, n.d., https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7937662/Cherry, Kendra. “Understanding and Using the Law of Attraction.” Verywell Mind, n.d., https://www.verywellmind.com/understanding-and-using-the-law-of-attraction-3144808“The Law of Action.” The Modern Manifestation, n.d., https://www.themodernmanifestation.com/post/law-of-action“Trust in the Law with All Your Heart: The Universal Law of Cause and Effect.” Medium, n.d., https://medium.com/@wildcatrealty/trust-in-the-law-with-all-your-heart-the-universal-law-of-cause-and-effect-dd57f3e63849“The Law of Compensation.” The Modern Manifestation, n.d., http://themodernmanifestation.com/post/law-of-compensation“The Law of Perpetual Transmutation of Energy.” The Modern Manifestation, n.d., https://www.themodernmanifestation.com/post/law-of-perpetual-transmutation-of-energy“The Law of Relativity.” The Modern Manifestation, n.d., https://www.themodernmanifestation.com/post/law-of-relativity“The Law of Polarity.” The Modern Manifestation, n.d., https://www.themodernmanifestation.com/post/law-of-polarity“The Law of Rhythm.” The Modern Manifestation, n.d., https://www.themodernmanifestation.com/post/law-of-rhythm“The Law of Gender.” The Modern Manifestation, n.d., http://themodernmanifestation.com/post/law-of-gender

    54 min
  6. MAR 10

    Why Manifestation Might Actually Be Your Brain (Not Magic)

    Hey friends,  In this first ever episode of The Expanding Soul, I’m going to give you a brief introduction to this podcast and to myself. Then I’lll explore the idea of manifestation through a scientific and psychological lens rather than a mystical one. Drawing from neuroscience research, we’ll look at how concepts like neuroplasticity and the Reticular Activating System (RAS) might explain why focusing your thoughts, intentions, and goals can actually influence what you notice and pursue in life. You’ll also hear about: How the brain rewires itself through repetition and intention Why survival mode can block creativity and opportunity The role your brain’s “information filter” plays in shaping what you see in the world 10 evidence-based strategies that may help train your mind to focus on what truly matters to you Whether you’re skeptical of manifestation or secretly hopeful there’s something to it, this episode offers a grounded, curious exploration of how our thoughts might shape our reality. If nothing else, you might walk away understanding your own mind just a little bit better. Welcome to The Expanding Soul. 🌱 With Love, Kristen REFERENCES: De Witte, Melissa. “James Doty on the Neuroscience of Manifestation.” Stanford Report, Stanford University, 10 May 2024, https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2024/05/james-doty-on-the-neuroscience-of-manifestation. Accessed 9 Mar. 2026.Öner, Kamile. “The Role and Importance of Neuroplasticity in Developing Psychological Resilience.” Journal of Education and Research in Nursing, vol. 21, no. 3, 2024, pp. 250–253, https://pdf.journalagent.com/jern/pdfs/JERN_21_3_250_253.pdf. Accessed 9 Mar. 2026.“RAS (Reticular Activating System).” Trauma Research UK, https://traumaresearchuk.org/ras-reticular-activating-system/. Accessed 9 Mar. 2026.“10 Ways to Activate Your Reticular Activating System.” Mind Health, https://mindhealth.com.au/10-ways-to-activate-reticular-activating-system/. Accessed 9 Mar. 2026.“Honors Research and Exhibition.” Digital Commons @ Loyola Marymount University, https://digitalcommons.lmu.edu/honors-research-and-exhibition/2020fall/section-02/4/. Accessed 9 Mar. 2026.

    28 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Hey! I’m Kristen and this is The Expanding Soul - a place where we explore growth, healing, and what it really means to become the best version of ourselves. This is a reflective podcast about expanding our souls and consciousness. Each episode is an honest conversation about growth - healing trauma, calming the nervous system, relationships, meaning, manifestation, science and the strange experience of being alive in a complicated world. This isn’t self-help from someone who has it all figured out. It’s a place where we can be our honest selves and learn together.