The Self Awareness Journey Podcast JJ Parker & Melissa Albers

Does your family gather for multi-generational get togethers? Do your friend groups try to reunite after a long absence? Reunions hold an emotional placeholder for us, whether they are for friends, coworkers or family. How do you feel about reunions?

Ever wondered how improvisation isn't just for laughs, but also a tool to create genuine connections and inspire authentic leadership? This week, we're bringing the playful charm of improv onto the business stage and showing its power to break down barriers, kindle true relationships, and sprinkle a bit of fun into professional spaces. We're not afraid to share how we've used improv in our own leadership development and networking events, and trust us, it's brought us some of the most unforgettable moments in our careers!

But the fun doesn't stop there. We're transforming the way we collaborate by unlocking the magic of co-creation. As we reflect on our own experiences in artistic partnerships, we can't stress enough the essence of openness, acceptance, trust, and optimism in fruitful co-creations. We're saying goodbye to egos and hello to new levels of trust and shared success, all while having a blast! As the saying goes, the aim of improv is to be positive, make your partner look good, and have fun - it's the same for co-creation. So, come join us as we navigate the exciting world of improv and co-creation, where genuine connections and shared successes are just around the corner!

What if you could find the sweet spot between taking emotional responsibility for your child's behavior and letting them learn from their own mistakes? We promise you that this episode is loaded with valuable insights that can offer clear directions on this complex terrain. We effectively unpack the delicate dynamics of parenting, focusing on when to step in and when to back off. We explore how external factors such as societal expectations shape our parenting styles and how they can sometimes lead us astray. 

In this lively discussion, we take on tough topics like the comparison game that parents often find themselves playing and the emotional whirlwind that arises when our parenting choices are called into question. We delve deep into our emotional reserves, examining how our reactions to our kids' behavior can affect our self-perception. From grappling with cultural norms to navigating the challenges that come with fostering independence in our children, this episode is an enlightening journey for all parents – whether you're just starting out or have been in the game for years. So, brace yourselves for an episode that's sure to leave you with plenty to ponder.

Have you ever felt the pang of regret? An emotion that you can't shake off, echoing in your mind like a haunting melody? We've all been there. It's the memory of an interaction at the Mall of America 30 years ago that still kindles a sense of regret within me. In this episode, we delve deep into this universal yet seldom spoken about emotion - regret. We explore its various forms, the struggle of trying to live a life devoid of it, and the lasting impression it leaves on us.

As part of our journey, we ponder on the challenge of forgiving our younger selves for past mistakes and the importance of bestowing upon ourselves grace and recognizing personal growth. Taking cues from icons like Jane Fonda, we discuss never forgetting a lesson but forgiving ourselves for it - a crucial step to alleviate the weight of regret. We also explore how to transform regret into positivity, demonstrating how to reframe these experiences to fuel personal growth. It's more than just a conversation; it's a voyage of reflection, growth, and healing. So, strap in and join us as we navigate the intricate labyrinth of regret.

Have you ever wondered how much your body language or tone of voice can change the message you're trying to convey? Welcome to an enlightening exploration of nonverbal communication where we, Melissa and JJ, decode the hidden language of body movements, voice modulation, and the importance of observation. Perfect for introverts, our discussions are also filled with insights on how to glean emotions from others without needing to actively engage in conversation.

JJ tells us a deeply personal story about how empathy and self-awareness became their pillars of strength. We also dive into an intriguing comparison between two different video capturing techniques used at JJ's wedding - one focusing on emotional nuances, the other on the event's proceedings. As we wrap up, we offer valuable strategies to enhance your sense of self-awareness and underscore the significance of self-care. This episode is not just about understanding nonverbal cues, but also about tuning into your emotions to build stronger, meaningful relationships. Trust us, this is one episode that will leave you thinking long after it's over!

Get ready to descend into the delights of Halloween, as we share spine-tingling stories and explore the intriguing interplay of fear, fun, and dress-up traditions. Remember when JJ threw a fit over his cheetah costume? Or ever wondered why adults don’t get to dress up more often? We'll be sharing our childhood Halloween memories, discussing the thrill and fright of trick-or-treat, and tackling important safety tips for the spooky season.

Here's a thought: why do we love the rush of fear in a controlled environment? Is it the adrenaline or the relief of surviving a terrifying experience? Our conversation takes a fascinating twist as we examine our human fascination with the macabre. From haunted houses to scary clowns and vampires, we'll delve into why people are drawn to these frightful encounters. It's not all screams though, we also dive into how humor helps us confront and manage our anxieties. 

Our session wouldn’t be complete without discussing the power of laughter. Whether it's the scarecrow comedy or the classic slapstick humor in horror flicks, we uncover how humor serves as a weapon against fear, making us more resilient and connected. So, whether you love Halloween or dread the frights, this episode will leave you with a deeper understanding of the fear, the fun, and everything in between. Don't miss this Halloween treat!