The Resilient Heart Podcast

Gabi Garland
The Resilient Heart Podcast

One thing each of us can not avoid is a lifetime full of heartache. While the world we live in has taught us to prepare for unforeseen events, they’ve done little in teaching us how to cope. They also don’t tell you this…….Adversity is where the true YOU emerges if you let it. Whether it is the beginning of the end or you choose to find the silver lining, it’s ALL up to you. This podcast is about owning our ability to be resilient as it is our super power. The way we choose to persevere is our opportunity to not be reduced by our circumstance. That’s been my entire life and probably most of yours! Welcome To The Resilient Heart Podcast. This podcast is for powerful women just like you that don’t deserve to deal with this alone! Each week we’re going to uncover how each of us have the unique ability to maintain our core integrity and strength in the face of dramatic circumstance. I am her, and so are you!

  1. 5 DAYS AGO

    Neurodiversity Advocacy: Promoting Acceptance and Inclusion for Autistic Individuals

    Autism, or Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), is a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterized by a range of challenges in social interaction, communication, and behavior. Affecting individuals differently, autism encompasses a wide spectrum of abilities and needs, making each person's experience unique. Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve outcomes, enabling individuals to lead fulfilling lives. Awareness and understanding of autism are crucial for fostering acceptance and support within communities. As society evolves, the importance of embracing neurodiversity and promoting inclusive environments continues to grow, paving the way for greater opportunities for those on the autism spectrum to thrive.   Today’s episode is a mashup of different episodes. First, we have Michael Villines, The Autoimmune Coach, who shares his mission to empower those with multiple sclerosis to live confidently and authentically. Next, Nancy Masannat offers her holistic approach to parenting autistic children, emphasizing the importance of nurturing the child as a whole rather than focusing solely on their autism diagnosis. As a certified Life Coach, she provides invaluable insights into celebrating each child's unique qualities while offering tailored support for their challenges. Finally, we hear from Dr. Matthew Zakreski, a clinical psychologist and co-founder of The Neurodiversity Collective, who discusses his extensive work in supporting neurodivergent individuals across various settings, from schools to workplaces. This episode is packed with actionable strategies and heartfelt stories that underscore the significance of understanding diverse communication styles, fostering acceptance in our communities, and empowering autistic individuals to thrive. Tune in to discover how you can contribute to a more inclusive world for everyone on the autism spectrum!   Timestamps [02:11] Learning your own style of communication [05:51] About Michael Villines and his job [06:55] About Mancy Masannat  [08:48] Things that helped Nancy as an autistic parent [11:48] Tools to help parents talk about their autistic children [15:42] The most exciting part about Dr. Mathew’s job   Notable Quotes “Learn to learn about each person and take each person individually, don’t put people in boxes.” “Just getting to share your story sometimes makes a huge difference when you get to talk to somebody.” “.If you are an autism parent, you have to remember to parent your kid as a kid and not parent the autism.” “It is always better to know that you are a zebra, not a weird horse.”   Get The Full Episodes Here:   Navigating Autism in This Neurodivergent World - Micheael Villines’ Insights: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/navigating-autism-in-this-neurodivergent-world-micheael/id1527076930?i=1000672455723   Parenting the Child, Not the Autism: Nancy’s Holistic Approach to Raising an Autistic Child: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/parenting-the-child-not-the-autism-nancys/id1527076930?i=1000673389735   The Neurodiversity Playbook: Dr. Matthew Zakreski’s Parenting Strategies for Neurodivergent Children: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-neurodiversity-playbook-dr-matthew-zakreskis/id1527076930?i=1000676011687   Connect With The Guests: Michael Villines Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaeljvillines/?ref=axnnroyd&hl=am-et Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.villines/?locale=af_ZA LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-villines-36160b105/   Nancy Masannat Website: https://simplejoydesigns.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simplejoydesigns/ Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100028875413008 X (Twitter): https://x.com/designs_joy   Dr. Matthew Zakreski Website: https://www.drmattzakreski.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drmattzakreski/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmattzakreski/   Conne

    18 min
  2. NOV 7

    The Neurodiversity Playbook: Dr. Matthew Zakreski’s Parenting Strategies for Neurodivergent Children

    Parenting neurodivergent children requires a unique approach that embraces their individual strengths, challenges, and perspectives. Neurodivergence encompasses a range of neurological differences, including autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and other conditions that affect how a person's brain processes information and interacts with the world. As a parent, understanding and supporting your neurodivergent child's specific needs is crucial for their overall development and well-being.   In this episode, I am joined by Dr. Matthew "Dr. Matt" Zakreski, a clinical psychologist and expert in neurodiversity. Dr. Matthew Zakreski is a renowned speaker and the co-founder of The Neurodiversity Collective. He has dedicated his career to supporting neurodivergent individuals across all walks of life, from schools to workplaces. Dr. Matt brings a wealth of knowledge and practical strategies for parenting neurodivergent children, his approach, as outlined in his book "The Neurodiversity Playbook," emphasizes embracing each child's unique strengths and perspectives while providing tailored support for their challenges. Dr. Matt shares powerful insights on early intervention, common misconceptions about neurodivergent children, and effective ways to nurture their abilities. From identifying initial signs to creating supportive environments, Dr. Matt offers valuable tools for parents to help their children thrive in various settings. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of neurodiversity and learn how to empower your neurodivergent child to reach their full potential.   Timestamps [03:20] About Dr. Matthew Zakreski [05:37] How Dr. Matt got into clinical psychology [07:05] Dr. Matt’s book: Neurodiversity Playbook [09:50] Steps to take when your child is neurodivergent [12:59] Things parents naturally get wrong about autistic children [16:34] Ways parents can strengthen their neurodivergent children [20:09] Places and activities that are more impactful in helping neurodivergent children [28:16] Tools to help parents talk about their autistic children [32:15] The most exciting part about Dr. Matt’s job [34:02] Dr. Matt’s final remarks about the work   Notable Quotes “When you do life right, you end up doing intentional work.” - Gabi Garland [06:42] “You cannot really do something until you are ready to do it.” - Dr. Matthew Zakreski [07:37] “It’s never too easy to start working at something because the sooner we start, the better it tends to go.” - Dr. Matthew Zakreski [12:18] “People will choose things that make them feel best.” - Dr. Matthew Zakreski [17:01]  “I don’t think we ever grow if we don’t get challenged.” - Gabi Garland [23:15] “It is always better to know that you are a zebra, not a weird horse.” - Dr. Matthew Zakreski [28:27]   Resources Mentioned The book Neurodiversity Playbook by Dr. Matthew Zakreski: https://www.amazon.com/Neurodiversity-Playbook-Neurodivergent-People-Neurotypical/dp/195336036X   Connect The Guest: Dr. Matthew Zakreski Website: https://www.drmattzakreski.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drmattzakreski/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmattzakreski/   Connect with me: Gabi Garland Website: http://www.gabigarland.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabi.garland/

    38 min
  3. OCT 17

    Parenting the Child, Not the Autism: Nancy’s Holistic Approach to Raising an Autistic Child

    Parenting a child with autism requires a holistic approach that focuses on nurturing the whole child rather than solely addressing the autism diagnosis. This comprehensive strategy recognizes that each autistic child is unique with their own strengths, challenges, and potential. By adopting a holistic perspective, parents can create an environment that supports their child's overall development, including physical, emotional, and social well-being. This approach emphasizes the importance of understanding the child's specific needs, interests, and communication style rather than trying to "fix" or change their autism. Parents are encouraged to celebrate their child's unique qualities while providing tailored support for areas of difficulty.   In this episode, I am joined by Nancy Masannat, who offers a refreshing and holistic perspective that emphasizes nurturing the child as a whole, rather than focusing solely on their autism diagnosis. As a certified Life Coach specializing in supporting parents and caregivers of autistic children, Nancy advocates for an approach that celebrates each child's unique qualities while providing tailored support for areas of difficulty. This episode delves into Nancy's personal journey as a mother of an autistic child, exploring the challenges, triumphs, and invaluable lessons learned along the way. From navigating the diagnosis process to finding joy in parenting, Nancy shares insights on mindset training, building better relationships, and designing effective self-care plans, all aimed at helping parents reclaim their lives and find more joy in their parenting journey. Tune in to gain insights on what autism looks like and how to effectively support, advocate for, and empower children with autism. Timestamps [03:10] About Nancy Masannat [04:27] What the diagnosis process looked like for Nancy’s son [10:41] How mums can include and create capacity for “normal kids.” [13:00] What mums with autistic children need to know about their own self [16:00] Conversations Nancy had with her daughter about his son [18:59] Things that were a griefing process for Nancy as a mum with an autistic child [24:08] Processing the grief of the dreams you have for your autistic kid [27:10] Lessons Nancy learned from being a big advocate for her autistic son [31:56] Steps new mums can take to help their autistic children [38:18] Finding joy for yourself [44:50] How to find an understanding community [48:23] About Nancy’s type of work [50:16] Nancy’s final remarks to mums with autistic children   Notable Quotes “If your kid asks a question, you need to answer the question in a way that they can understand it.” “The grieving process is an ongoing thing.” “Sometimes you have to take the wins that you have and celebrate them big, maybe not for them, but for you.” “.Our hopes and dreams don’t typically manifest in our kids no matter what.” “Do your best until you know different and then do your best with that information, don’t beat yourself up for what you don’t know.” “Lean into your intuition when something is not right.” “It’s okay to take care of yourself and make time for yourself.” “Just getting to share your story sometimes makes a huge difference when you get to talk to somebody.” “.If you are an autism parent, you have to remember to parent your kid as a kid and not parent the autism.”   Resources Mentioned: Welcome to Holland Story By Emily Perl Kingsley: https://www.emilyperlkingsley.com/welcome-to-holland   Connect With Nancy Masannat: Website: https://simplejoydesigns.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simplejoydesigns/ Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100028875413008 X (Twitter): https://x.com/designs_joy   Connect with me: Gabi Garland Website: http://www.gabigarland.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabi.garland/

    59 min
  4. OCT 10

    Navigating Autism in This Neurodivergent World - Micheael Villines’ Insights

    Navigating autism in today's neurodivergent world involves understanding the unique experiences and challenges faced by individuals on the autism spectrum. As society increasingly recognizes the value of neurodiversity, it becomes essential to foster environments that not only support but also celebrate these differences. This journey requires a multifaceted approach that includes advocating for inclusive policies, promoting awareness and acceptance, and creating supportive communities that empower autistic individuals to thrive. By shifting perspectives from viewing autism as a deficit to recognizing it as a distinct way of being, we can cultivate a culture that values diverse neurotypes and enhances the quality of life for all, ultimately leading to a more equitable society.   In this episode, I am joined by Michael Villines, The Autoimmune Coach. His mission is to help people with multiple Sclerosis have the confidence to live. Michael delves into things he wished he had growing up feeling different, alcohol as a coping mechanism and advice to get started on the life you want to live. He also sheds more light on the books that helped him become who he was, the journey of building your own business, and things that made him feel less underrepresented.   This guide aims to illuminate what autism looks like, providing insights on how to effectively support, advocate for, and empower children with autism. By fostering environments that celebrate neurodiversity, we can promote awareness and acceptance while emphasizing that we are all in this together. This journey encourages us to shift our perspectives from viewing autism as a deficit to recognizing it as a distinct way of being, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for all and cultivating a more equitable society where every individual is seen and valued. Tune in to learn more about how to support people living with autism and other related syndromes in this neurodivergent world.   Timestamps [03:37] About Michael Villines [06:38] What Michael felt different growing up with autism [09:24] Things Michael wished he had growing up feeling different [16:12] Shedding people and things that aren’t healthy [23:15] Alcohol as a coping mechanism [28:10] Advice to get started on the life you want to live [33:20] Books that helped Michael to become who he was [36:46] Things that made Michael feel less underrepresented [41:27] The journey of building your own business [45:09] Michael’s final remarks   Notable Quotes “The world is not as kind as it needs to be.” “The thing that kids don’t realize is, it goes a long way just to be nice to people.” “Love isn’t what you say but what you do.” “Get comfortable with yourself and really work on yourself.” “Our brains work in different ways, but it doesn’t mean that we are not still valuable or there aren't gifts that we have.” “Learn to learn about each person and take each person individually, don’t put people in boxes.”   Resources Mentioned: The Book; Walking with God through Pain and Suffering - Timothy Keller: https://www.amazon.com/Walking-God-through-Pain-Suffering/dp/1594634408   Connect With Michael Villines: Website: https://www.lifewave.com/theautoimmunecoach Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michaeljvillines/?ref=axnnroyd&hl=am-et Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michael.villines/?locale=af_ZA LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-villines-36160b105/   Connect with me: Gabi Garland Website: http://www.gabigarland.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabi.garland/

    49 min
  5. OCT 3

    Early Signs of An Abuser - My Domestic Violence Story Part 3

    Domestic violence is a pervasive and deeply traumatic issue that affects countless individuals worldwide, leaving lasting scars on survivors and their families. Abusers often employ a range of tactics to maintain control over their victims, including physical violence, emotional manipulation, financial abuse, and social isolation. The cycle of abuse can be insidious, with periods of apparent calm or remorse interspersed with escalating aggression and danger. Recognizing the early signs of an abusive relationship is crucial for potential victims to protect themselves and seek help before the situation worsens. These signs may include excessive jealousy, controlling behavior, rapid mood swings, and attempts to isolate the victim from friends and family. In this episode, I share the final stages of my abusive relationship, including being nine months pregnant and completely isolated from my support network. The situation rapidly deteriorated, with my ex’s behavior becoming increasingly erratic and dangerous. From waking me at 3 AM to make him food to accusing me of infidelity regarding my pregnancy, his actions exemplified the manipulative and controlling nature of abusers. The night his intention was to kill me. And it marked a turning point, leading to my escape with the help of my father. Despite the trauma and challenges I faced, including a custody battle and ongoing harassment, I want to emphasize that healing and happiness are possible for survivors of domestic violence. My journey to recovery wasn't easy or quick, but it led me to a place of peace and joy that I never thought possible during my darkest moments. Today, I live a fulfilling life, free from abuse and filled with love. To women currently in abusive situations: there is hope, and it does get better. With support, courage, and time, you can break free from the cycle of abuse and build a beautiful, safe life for yourself. Remember, you deserve love, respect, and happiness, and they are achievable, no matter how impossible it may seem right now. Tune in to learn about my journey through years of abuse, my path to healing, and how I found love and joy on the other side of this traumatic experience.   Timestamps [00:52] Nine months pregnant and isolated from everybody [02:24] He rudely woke me at 3 am to make him something to eat [03:18] Accusations that the pregnancy was not his [03:46] The night he intended to kill me [08:15] How I was able to escape with the help of my dad [09:50] Giving birth to my daughter [10:50] His family manipulation started right after giving birth to my daughter [12:48] He was of no help at all - Couldn’t change the baby’s diaper while I was at work [13:44] He tried to kidnap my daughter [17:30] The Court case battle to maintain full custody [18:47] When his people followed me, and a fight ensued [19:51] Moving me back in with my parents [20:25] The impact of his death [22:44] The funeral ceremony - They didn’t tell the truth about who he really was [24:36] Nobody wanted to help us with what we needed with my daughter  [26:48] The healing process doesn’t have a timeline [29:34] The beauty of healing from an abuser [30:05] Be honest with your children  [31:25] My answer to peace [32:12] Final remarks to women on domestic violence   Notable Quotes: “Too many women sacrifice their life in service of love believing that someone is going to be better, and the reality is that statistics tell us that isn’t the case.” “Abusers are really good at drawing you back in.” “Nobody stays when they know to their heart and to their soul that somebody abuses them in any physical capacity” “It sucks when you love somebody that hurts you.”   Domestic Violence Crisis resources  - https://www.thehotline.org/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=domestic_violence Text BEGIN to 88788 for help    (800) 799-7233  Connect with me: Gabi Garland Resilient App & Healing communit

    36 min
  6. SEP 26

    Early Signs of An Abuser - My Domestic Violence Story Part 2

    Domestic violence is a pervasive and often hidden issue that affects millions. Recognizing the early signs of an abuser can be crucial for protecting yourself and breaking free from a dangerous situations. Many survivors of domestic violence report overlooking or rationalizing away subtle red flags in the early stages of their relationships. By understanding and identifying these early warning signs, you can be empowered to recognize potentially abusive behaviors and seek help before situations escalate.  In this episode, I share my personal story of domestic violence, exploring a series of pivotal moments that shed light on the complex dynamics of abusive relationships. From my initial move to Florida with my ex to the gradual loss of my personal freedom and the first time he physically abused me. My story serves as a reminder of how abusers can manipulate and control their partners. I highlight how my abuser isolated me, controlled our finances, and undermined my success and independence. By sharing these experiences, my goal is to empower other women to identify red flags in their own relationships and seek help before the situation escalates. Tune in to learn about my journey through years of abuse, my path to healing, and how I found love and joy on the other side of this traumatic experience.   Timestamps [00:00] Life with my ex in Florida [04:50] The false sense of security masked with humor, fun, and what I naively thought was love [06:45] Justifying where I was going every time I had to leave the house [07:55] Moving from Florida to Georgia [09:46] Financial abuse and emotional belittling due to my promotions at work. [11:48] The first incident of physical abuse and what I did next. [15:58] Being forced to quit my job because of my friend at work [17:16] The abuse from him continued, in big and small ways. [18:14] Realizing I was pregnant  [18:50] Anger management classes and therapy sessions for healing [20:17] Moving back to Florida because of my pregnancy. Further isolation as I’d built a little bit of a support system in Georgia and he couldn’t allow that. [21:22] He wouldn’t cover my pregnancy health care bills and insurance [21:43] How I ended up being a prisoner again in my house [23:11] I had to prepare to take care of my daughter and myself [26:06] Ways they pull you away from environments where you have resources   Notable Quotes “Don’t put everything that you have in the hands of another person.” “These types of people will start questioning your success because your success starts threatening their ego.” “I had no access to any of our money or anything, and he liked it that way.”   Connect with me: Gabi Garland Website: http://www.gabigarland.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabi.garland/

    27 min
  7. SEP 12

    Early Signs of An Abuser - My Domestic Violence Story Part 1

    Recognizing the signs of an abusive relationship can be challenging, especially when the abuse is subtle or disguised as love and concern. Abusive behavior often starts gradually, with seemingly minor incidents that escalate over time, making it difficult for victims to identify the pattern. Understanding these signs is crucial for potential victims and friends, family members, and professionals who can offer support and intervention. In this episode, I share a series of pivotal moments, including quitting my job to move in with an abuser and the realization that things were not as they seemed; we gain insight into the complex dynamics of abusive relationships. This narration serves as a stark reminder that abusers often prey on those who are vulnerable or lacking in self-esteem. However, not always and in Gabi's story she was confident, successful and led a very happy life. Her goal is to highlight the importance of recognizing the warning signs early on. By sharing this story, The goal is to empower other women to identify red flags in their relationships and seek help before it's too late. Tune in to learn more about the story of my years spent with an abuser and how 20 years later I've healed so much of the woman I was back then and have found love and joy on the other side of abuse.   Timestamps [02:10] Domestic Violence & reflection after watching #itendswithus [05:17] My ex's death [07:31] How I met him [13:16] When the isolation started - key signs early on abusers do to isolate you [16:10] When the unraveling of my self esteem and worthiness began [19:52] The first trip to meet him [25:20] Quitting my job to move across the country   Notable Quotes “I wish that I had somebody to tell me this is crazy back then.” “The things that are said or the ways that we show up in the world are based upon the narrative that we have carried from somebody else’s s****y words.” “Sometimes, you don’t know or believe, you have the ability to start a new life.” “We have the ability to choose.” “Money and power go hand in hand, especially with men that are abusive and manipulative.”   Connect with me: Gabi Garland   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabi.garland/

    32 min
  8. JUN 20

    Rediscovering Your Identity and Breaking Generational Cycles with Romel Peters

    In this episode, I am joined by Romel, a proud Mumpreneur, Intuitive Mindset Coach, Inspirational Speaker, Podcaster and Author on a mission to help individuals who struggle with self-identity rediscover who they are on a soul level by breaking the unhealthy cycles of generational patterns and expectations. Having undergone her massive transformation after hitting rock bottom in 2018, Romel now uses her expertise and experience to guide her clients through their own Self-Discovery journey. She is passionate about creating healthy spaces and the resources you may need to ‘master the art’ of harnessing your natural gift of intuition so you feel more capable and confident about stepping into your main character's energy, managing the ebbs and flows of life, and unleashing your authentic self (unapologetically) into this world. Today, Romel shares her journey of healing from domestic abuse, losing her father, and rediscovering her true self. We discuss the importance of self-love, forgiveness, and breaking generational cycles. She also provides insights on moving forward and creating a life you love, even after experiencing trauma. Join the conversation now! Timestamps: [01:31] Romel's background and work as an intuitive mindset coach [01:57] The importance of the intersection between business and personal well-being [02:36] Benefits of recognizing challenges are not unique to oneself [04:05] Rediscovering lost passions and true identity [06:13] Romel's journey of healing [08:05] Leaving a toxic relationship and the healing process [11:20] Romel's advice for someone freshly out of an abusive relationship [15:17] How emotional abuse manifests in a relationship [16:09] Romel's most significant lesson from transitioning out of an abusive relationship [18:26] The importance of embracing our humanity [21:09] The significance of generational cycle breakers [34:05] The empowering aspect of decision-making in the healing journey Quotes: It doesn't matter what you've been through, big or small, or whatever you felt from that. You, um, it's valid 'cause you've been through it, and it's what you feel, and it's not your story. It's not your story; it's just a chapter.  Whatever you need to rewire for yourself, keep repeating it, and it will become second nature. It is just, like I said, taking the baby steps. It all comes together once you do all the smaller stuff. It will get better as long as you want it to. Essentially, what you feel on the inside will always reflect on the outside. As hard as it might be, once you take that first step, it gets a little bit easier, and you just keep taking the steps until it's just a walk in the park. Resources: Romel Peters Coaching Intuitive Mindset Coach & Mentor https://www.romelpeters.com https://www.instagram.com/romel_peters https://www.facebook.com/romelmpeters https://www.facebook.com/groups/breakingcyclestogether_ Gabi Garland Calendly for Nashville: https://calendly.com/gabigarland/resilientphoenixretreat Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabi.garland

    36 min
5
out of 5
50 Ratings

About

One thing each of us can not avoid is a lifetime full of heartache. While the world we live in has taught us to prepare for unforeseen events, they’ve done little in teaching us how to cope. They also don’t tell you this…….Adversity is where the true YOU emerges if you let it. Whether it is the beginning of the end or you choose to find the silver lining, it’s ALL up to you. This podcast is about owning our ability to be resilient as it is our super power. The way we choose to persevere is our opportunity to not be reduced by our circumstance. That’s been my entire life and probably most of yours! Welcome To The Resilient Heart Podcast. This podcast is for powerful women just like you that don’t deserve to deal with this alone! Each week we’re going to uncover how each of us have the unique ability to maintain our core integrity and strength in the face of dramatic circumstance. I am her, and so are you!

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