Tender Space

Confidence
  • 5.0 (6)
  • Self-Improvement
  • Updated Daily

Tender Space is a soft place for honest conversations about life, mental health, fading friendships, emotional exhaustion, healing, freedom, and the quiet struggles we carry alone. This podcast explores the parts of being human we don’t always know how to explain — overthinking at night, feeling lost in life, outgrowing people, trying to heal while still hurting, and learning how to exist in a world that can feel both beautiful and unfair. Through deep reflections, real conversations, and vulnerable storytelling, Tender Space reminds listeners that they are not alone in what they feel.

  1. 9h ago

    Reclaiming the Body Through Art with Wednesdae Reim Ifrach

    What happens when healing requires us to listen to the body—not just the mind? In this episode of Tender Space, we sit down with expressive arts therapist, researcher, author, educator, and PhD candidate Wednesdae Reim Ifrach for a deeply honest conversation about complex trauma, body liberation, creativity, and survival. Wednesdae shares how somatic inquiry, poetry, art-making, and creative expression can become meaningful tools for reconnecting with ourselves after trauma. We explore what it means to reclaim a body that may have once felt unsafe, how eating disorder recovery intersects with body autonomy, and why inclusive, trauma-informed care matters. We also talk about queer and disabled resilience, harm reduction, spirituality, grief, and the possibility of using creativity not simply as an artistic outlet, but as a ritual for survival and transformation. This episode is for anyone who has ever felt disconnected from their body, struggled to put their experiences into words, or wondered whether healing could look different from what they were taught to expect. About Wednesdae Reim Ifrach Wednesdae Reim Ifrach is an expressive arts therapist, researcher, author, educator, board-certified art therapist, licensed counselor, and PhD candidate. Their work bridges clinical psychotherapy with somatic inquiry, poetry, and expressive arts. Their clinical and academic interests include complex trauma, eating disorder recovery, somatic interventions, harm reduction, body liberation, queer and disabled resilience, and inclusive mental health care. Wednesdae is also the author of Queer Expressions, Hex & Flesh, and Skeletons, Sequins, and Kin, using creative and scholarly work to explore identity, trauma, embodiment, culture, and healing. Through their work, Wednesdae encourages people to see creativity not merely as an outlet, but as a powerful pathway toward survival, self-understanding, and reclaiming autonomy. Guest Link: https://www.wednesdae.org/publications https://www.instagram.com/queer.art_therapist?igsi=MWlzZ2I2dGhkNDZqYQ==

  2. 1d ago

    Beyond What We Can See: Consciousness, Spirituality, and the Search for Truth with Alan Gillanders

    What if reality is much bigger than what we can experience through our five senses? In this episode of Tender Space, we sit down with Alan Gillanders, an artist, writer, and lifelong seeker who has spent decades exploring metaphysics, consciousness, quantum theory, ancient spiritual traditions, and the fundamental question: What is truth? Alan shares his personal journey of spiritual exploration and the experiences that challenged his understanding of reality. We explore consciousness, manifestation, meditation, creativity, intuition, spirituality, and the possibility that human beings are connected to something much greater than what we ordinarily perceive. Alan also discusses how his years as an artist, gallery owner, writer, and creative entrepreneur have influenced his understanding of consciousness and the human experience. This is a conversation for anyone who has ever looked at the world and wondered: “Is this really all there is?” Come with an open mind, bring your curiosity, and explore the questions that may lead somewhere deeper. About Alan Gillanders Alan Gillanders is an artist, writer, and lifelong explorer of spirituality, consciousness, metaphysics, and the nature of reality. With decades of study and personal exploration, Alan brings together ideas from science, ancient spiritual traditions, meditation, and firsthand experiences to encourage people to question conventional assumptions about existence. He is passionate about exploring consciousness and the possibility that human beings are connected to something greater than what can be perceived through the ordinary senses. Alan is also an accomplished artist, primarily working in oil painting, with experience in metal sculpture. He owned and managed an art gallery in Subiaco, Western Australia, for more than a decade and has pursued a variety of creative and business ventures. He currently lives with his wife in Quinns Rocks, a coastal suburb of Perth, where they have raised four children while continuing their shared commitment to creativity and spiritual growth. Guest Link: https://AlanGillanders.com

  3. 1d ago

    Survival, Silence, and the Stories Appalachia Doesn’t Get to Tell Out Loud with Kelly E. Sheets

    What happens when survival requires silence—and what happens when someone finally feels safe enough to speak? In this episode of Tender Space, we sit down with therapist Kelly E. Sheets for a deeply honest conversation about trauma, domestic violence, PTSD, OCD, survival, and the stories that often remain hidden. Kelly holds an MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from East Tennessee State University and has nearly a decade of experience as a therapist. She specializes in PTSD and OCD and has a background in social psychological research. But Kelly also brings lived experience to this conversation. We talk about domestic violence, the complicated reality of leaving an abusive relationship, the misconceptions surrounding survivors, and the importance of having access to safe and supportive communities. Kelly also shares her perspective on Central Appalachia and why some stories about trauma and mental health can be particularly difficult to bring into the open. This is a conversation about finding your voice after silence, understanding trauma beyond the surface, and remembering that asking for help isn't weakness. Sometimes, being heard is where healing begins. About Kelly E. Sheets Kelly E. Sheets holds an MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from East Tennessee State University and has worked as a therapist for nearly a decade. She currently specializes in the treatment of PTSD and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and is a member of the International OCD Foundation. Kelly also has a background in social psychological research and has been published in Behavioral Research Methods. Beyond her clinical work, Kelly is passionate about bringing awareness to her home region of Central Appalachia and creating more open conversations around mental health, trauma, and difficult experiences. Her personal experience with domestic violence and survival gives her an especially meaningful perspective on the importance of advocacy, community support, and access to resources. And away from therapy and research, Kelly enjoys eating cheese and providing unsolicited commentary to her television—proof that even therapists have their own very important coping mechanisms. Guest Link: https://www.branchhousetn.org/ https://www.kelsheets.com/

  4. 1d ago

    From Trauma to Healing: Faith, Identity, and the Journey Toward Wholeness with Carolyn Sherrow

    What happens when someone who has endured profound trauma begins the journey from survival toward healing? In this episode of Tender Space, we sit down with Carolyn Sherrow, author, speaker, survivor, former physician assistant, and founder of Cords of Grace. Carolyn shares her deeply personal journey through trauma, dissociation, emotional healing, faith, and discovering her identity again. Drawing from both her 23 years in medicine and her personal experience, she offers a unique perspective on the connection between mental health, emotional wounds, spirituality, and recovery. We talk about dissociation, forgiveness, identity, trusting God through difficult seasons, and what it can mean to begin healing from experiences that have shaped your life for years. This is a conversation about painful realities—but also about hope, resilience, faith, and the possibility of becoming whole again. About Carolyn Sherrow Carolyn Sherrow is an author, speaker, survivor, and founder of Cords of Grace. A former physician assistant who practiced medicine for 23 years, she brings both professional experience and personal insight to her work surrounding trauma, mental health, emotional healing, spirituality, and identity. She is the author of My Personal Holocaust: Triumphing Over the Devastation of Trauma-Based Mind Control. Her writing has also appeared in Pentecostal Evangel magazine, Chicken Soup for the Soul, and Bethany House anthologies. Through her books, blog, speaking engagements, and ministry, Carolyn encourages wounded individuals to discover their true identity, pursue healing, and deepen their relationship with God. Guest Link: https://cordsofgrace.com/

  5. 2d ago

    Understanding Evil, Faith, and the Freedom to Change with Michael Muccio

    What if understanding the origin of evil could change the way we understand the struggles we face today? In this episode of Tender Space, we sit down with Michael Muccio, a pastor of more than 40 years, business consultant, author, missionary, and traveling speaker. Michael shares the extraordinary story behind his newest book, Evil's First Breath—a novel based on a vision he says he received 35 years ago. We explore the origins of evil, destructive patterns, spiritual transformation, first-principle thinking, faith, personal responsibility, and the freedom that Michael believes is available through Christ. From his early career in business and his relationship with Zig Ziglar to decades of pastoral ministry, Michael brings a unique combination of business experience, spiritual insight, and real-world conversations with people navigating life's hardest questions. This is a thoughtful conversation about evil, faith, change, and what it means to look beneath the surface to discover the roots of what holds us back. About Michael Muccio Michael Muccio is a business consultant, pastor, author, traveling speaker, and missionary who has spent more than 40 years in pastoral ministry. His professional journey began in the hospitality industry, where he became a successful leader before meeting Zig Ziglar. He later worked as a business consultant, training companies to improve effectiveness and productivity. That experience inspired his book America's Battle for Free Enterprise—The Value of Incentive & Competition. Michael eventually sensed a calling into ministry and has served as a pastor for four decades. He is the author of three books, including Evil's First Breath, a novel based on a vision he received 35 years ago concerning the origin of evil. The original vision became a dramatic church production that was presented over multiple nights and later developed into the book. Through his writing, speaking, counseling, and ministry, Michael explores spiritual realities, personal transformation, destructive patterns, and the freedom he believes is found through Christ. Guest Link https://michaeljmuccio.com/ https://www.amazon.com/Evils-First-Breath-Michael-Muccio/dp/1685730914

  6. 2d ago

    Beyond the Barrier: Accessibility, Resilience, and the Power of Moving Forward with Maxwell Ivey

    What if accessibility wasn't simply about compliance—but about creating better experiences, stronger connections, and new opportunities? In this episode of Tender Space, we sit down with Maxwell Ivey, known as The Blind Blogger, a serial entrepreneur, accessibility advocate, writer, speaker, and founder of The Accessibility Advantage. Maxwell takes us through his extraordinary journey from owning a carnival and brokering amusement rides to becoming a life goals coach, online media publicist, and eventually a leading voice in accessibility. We talk about disability and entrepreneurship, overcoming fear, asking for help, self-determination, resilience, honest storytelling, and the importance of continuing to move forward even when the path isn't clear. Maxwell also shares the story behind overcoming his fear of singing in public and how music became another way for him to connect with audiences. This is a conversation about accessibility—but it's also about finding purpose, embracing who you are, and refusing to let barriers decide what your future can look like. About the Guest Maxwell Ivey, known as The Blind Blogger, is an accessibility expert, writer, speaker, podcaster, and serial online entrepreneur with nearly two decades of experience educating people about the importance and benefits of accessibility. He is the founder of The Accessibility Advantage and has worked with clients to improve accessibility while helping organizations understand how inclusion can contribute to reputation, innovation, and growth. Maxwell has also served as an accessibility advisor to PodMatch and has contributed to publications including Consumer Reports and PHP Architect. He is a four-time author, award-winning writer, solo traveler, podcast guest, public speaker, and singer. His personal philosophy is built around interdependence, self-determination, determined positivity, honest storytelling, and continuing to move forward. Guest Link: https://www.theaccessibilityadvantage.com/home

  7. 2d ago

    Reclaiming Your Health After 40 with Brian Parana

    What happens when you're successful everywhere except when it comes to your health? In this episode of Tender Space, we sit down with health and lifestyle coach Brian Parana to talk about men's health after 40, sustainable fat loss, discipline, energy, and the emotional side of no longer feeling like yourself. Brian shares why busy men often struggle with consistency even when they know what they should be doing, and how simple systems can make healthy living possible even with demanding careers, family responsibilities, and travel. We also explore how your health affects your confidence, leadership, relationships, and the way you show up at home. This is a practical and honest conversation for anyone who is ready to stop starting over and begin building a healthier life that actually fits reality. About Brian Parana Brian Parana is a health and lifestyle coach with more than 20 years of experience in fitness, nutrition, and wellness. He has owned two CrossFit gyms, coached thousands of clients, worked with high-performing athletes, and now helps busy men over 40 remotely. His coaching focuses on strength training, protein-first nutrition, daily movement, sleep, stress management, and accountability. Brian is also the host of the Driven For Health Podcast and is passionate about helping men improve their health without extreme diets, unrealistic routines, or guilt. Outside of coaching, Brian is married to his high school sweetheart, Amber, and they have four children. Guest Link: https://thecalltorise.com/ https://brianparana.short.gy/DFHApple

  8. 3d ago

    Leadership, Resilience, and Rebuilding Hope with Christopher Rivers

    What does it take to keep moving forward when you've served your country, witnessed hardship, and come home to a society where so many people feel stuck? In this episode of Tender Space, Confidence sits down with Christopher Rivers, former Army officer, combat veteran, diplomat, corporate strategist, and author of You Shouldn’t Have to Kill to Get Ahead. Christopher shares how enlisting in the Army at seventeen shaped his life, what his experiences in Iraq and Afghanistan taught him about leadership and resilience, and why his journey eventually led him to knock on 9,000 doors while running for state office. Together, they explore belonging, trust, sacrifice, leadership, civic responsibility, and the growing feeling that hard work doesn't always lead to the opportunities people were promised. This is a thoughtful conversation about what it means to listen, lead, rebuild, and hold onto hope—even when the path forward isn't obvious. About the Guest Christopher Rivers is a former Army officer and combat veteran who served in both Iraq and Afghanistan. After his first deployment, he earned his degree from the United States Military Academy at West Point, returned to military service, and later completed graduate studies at Georgetown University. His career has included military leadership, U.S. diplomacy, corporate strategy, and public service. During his campaign for state office, he personally knocked on 9,000 doors, listening to the concerns and experiences of the people in his community. He is the author of You Shouldn’t Have to Kill to Get Ahead, a book combining personal experience, leadership lessons, and reflections on opportunity, belonging, and rebuilding trust in America. Guest Link https://www.chrisrivers.com/changemakers

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About

Tender Space is a soft place for honest conversations about life, mental health, fading friendships, emotional exhaustion, healing, freedom, and the quiet struggles we carry alone. This podcast explores the parts of being human we don’t always know how to explain — overthinking at night, feeling lost in life, outgrowing people, trying to heal while still hurting, and learning how to exist in a world that can feel both beautiful and unfair. Through deep reflections, real conversations, and vulnerable storytelling, Tender Space reminds listeners that they are not alone in what they feel.

Information

  • Creator
    Confidence
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    96
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Confidence
  • Show Website
    Tender Space