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”Now, every time I witness a strong person, I want to know: What dark did you conquer in your story? Mountains do not rise without earthquakes.” (Katherine MacKenett) We all experience hard times but those troubles can create depth of character, resilience, empathy, and so much more--if we let them work within us for that purpose. Join me and a variety of guests every Thursday as we talk about our identity within motherhood through the lens of adversity.

ABOUT ME
I’m Jen! I am a:
J – Jack of all trades
E – Enthusiastic about life, and Enjoy
N – Networking with people
I feel like my life’s purpose is to be a compiler/curator. I love gathering things, ideas, and people into my sphere of influence. See what I’m up to by listening to the podcast, A is for Adversity, wherever you listen to podcasts!
Episodes

Thursday Jun 13, 2024
Let Yourself Bloom (AUDIO)
Thursday Jun 13, 2024
Thursday Jun 13, 2024
Let Yourself Bloom
In this episode, Jen Banks reflects on hitting their stress ceiling and the need to make changes for a healthier life. She discusses the upcoming launch of a new podcast mini-series, 'The Best Birth,' focusing on pregnancy, birth, and postpartum preparation. The host also announces this as the final episode of 'A is for Adversity' and shares excitement about launching a new podcast 'Let Yourself Bloom' in Fall 2024, along with a related book release in August. They emphasize the importance of growth, self-identity, and the continuous journey of self-betterment.
00:00 Welcome to the Podcast
00:31 Hitting the Stress Ceiling
01:06 The Best Birth Mini Series
02:20 Editing My Book
02:53 A Bittersweet Farewell
03:21 Rebranding to Let Yourself Bloom
07:15 Exploring the New Brand
12:32 Final Thoughts and Farewell
#NewBeginnings #PodcastLife #LetYourselfBloom #Inspiration #SelfGrowth #PodcastCommunity #Transformation #Empowerment #GrowthMindset #NewChapter

Thursday Jun 06, 2024
Lessons I've Learned Podcasting (AUDIO ONLY)
Thursday Jun 06, 2024
Thursday Jun 06, 2024
Reflecting on Four Years of Podcasting and Preparing for a New Chapter
In this episode, the host shares personal insights and lessons learned from four years of podcasting. She discusses initial challenges, content creation, audience building, and the importance of networking. As she moves into a rebranding phase with her new podcast 'Let Yourself Bloom' and an upcoming book, she reflects on personal growth and offers advice for new podcasters. The episode also covers technical aspects, tips for staying consistent, and future plans for her podcasting journey.
00:00 Introduction and Personal Anecdote
00:40 Summer Plans and Podcast Announcement
01:05 Lessons from Four Years of Podcasting
01:50 Starting a Podcast: Challenges and Tips
04:09 Content Creation and Evolution
07:10 Technical Aspects of Podcasting
08:06 Personal Growth and Lessons Learned
11:03 Advice for New Podcasters
13:11 Future Plans and Conclusion

Thursday May 23, 2024
KAYA Kommunity: Unveiling Astrology's Language w/ Kambria Davis (AUDIO ONLY)
Thursday May 23, 2024
Thursday May 23, 2024
Unlocking the Language of the Stars with Kambria Davis
In this episode, the host explores the world of astrology during Gemini season with guest Kambria Davis, the resident astrologist at Daybreak. Davis shares her personal journey into astrology during a pivotal time in her life, emphasizing that astrology is a language rather than a belief system. She discusses how astrology can offer insights into one's life purpose, personality traits, and potential paths, using examples from her own life and client experiences. Davis also highlights the importance of starting with one's sun sign and birth chart to understand the core archetypes influencing them. Additionally, she mentions her approach to teaching astrology and offering birth chart readings to help others find clarity and direction in their lives.
00:00 Welcome to the Podcast: Introducing Gemini Season and Astrology
01:28 Meet Kambria: Journey into Astrology
01:50 Kambria's Personal Transformation Through Astrology
05:01 Understanding Astrology: A Language, Not a Belief System
06:29 Discovering Your Inner Leo: Kambria's Insights
09:37 Astrology in Action: Personal and Professional Growth
14:03 Navigating Life Changes with Astrology
18:42 Kambria's Future Endeavors and How to Connect
21:46 Closing Thoughts and Goodbyes
#KayaPodcast #AstrologyTalk #AstrologyInsights #KambriaDavis #CosmicWisdom #PodcastListening #SunSignExploration #AstrologyJourney #CelestialGuidance #AstrologyAwakening #AstrologicalInsights #CelestialWisdom #AstrologyMagic #SelfDiscovery #CosmicAlignment #AstroSelfDiscovery

Thursday May 16, 2024
Just Love Yourself w/ The Soul Coach Rachel Taylor (AUDIO ONLY)
Thursday May 16, 2024
Thursday May 16, 2024
Journey To Self-Discovery: A Conversation with Rachel Cox Taylor
In this podcast episode, Jen shares updates from her life, including getting back into routines after a trip, editing her book, and personal family stories. The focus then shifts to an insightful conversation with guest Rachel Cox Taylor, who shares her journey and insights on personal growth, the importance of unconditional love, and understanding one's core values. Rachel, describing herself as a soul coach, delves into the idea of helping others remember their innate worth and find their purpose. She emphasizes the significance of self-care, particularly for mothers, urging them to prioritize their own fulfillment to better nurture their families. The episode concludes with details on how listeners can connect with Rachel and an invitation to local community meetups.
00:00 Welcome to the Podcast: Life Updates and Book Editing Journey
01:02 Family Moments: Tooth Fairy Visits and Puppy Parties
02:08 Introducing Rachel Taylor: A Conversation on Seeing and Being Seen
02:34 Rachel Taylor's Story: From Personal Journey to Soul Coaching
05:14 Exploring Core Values and the Essence of Unconditional Love
06:22 The Role of a Soul Coach: Guiding Others to Their Inner Knowing
10:19 Discovering Life's Purpose and the Power of Joy
14:08 Rachel's Approach to Helping Clients Remember Who They Are
22:35 A Message of Self-Priority and Finding Joy
28:21 Closing Thoughts and How to Connect with Rachel

Thursday May 09, 2024
JOA Author Adventure Experience (AUDIO ONLY)
Thursday May 09, 2024
Thursday May 09, 2024
Unleashing the Power of Authorship: A Journey of Empowerment and Community
This joint episode from the "I Was Born To Do This" podcast (hosted by Keira Brinton) and "A Is For Adversity (hosted by Jen Banks) was recorded shortly after an intensive authoring retreat in Mill Valley, California. The episode features a vibrant discussion with three guests: Trisha Biesinger, Jennifer Banks, and Brooke Anderson, who have just completed writing their books during a five-day group author adventure. The conversation explores the transformative experience of writing in a community, the profound connection with divine inspiration, individual growth through writing, rebranding personal and professional identities, and the supportive environment that fosters creativity and flow. Each author shares insights into their books and the unique messages they aim to convey, deeply rooted in personal life stories and professional expertise. The script emphasizes the importance of authentic community, the challenges and breakthroughs of the writing process, and the broader implications of their work for empowering others, especially women, to find their own voice and message.
Joan of Arc Publishing: https://www.joapublishing.com/
"I Was Born To Do This" Podcast
00:00 Kicking Off the Author Adventure: Excitement and Introductions
01:27 Welcome to the 'I Was Born to Do This' Podcast with Keira Brinton
02:13 Meet the Authors: Personal Journeys and Book Dreams
05:37 The Power of Community and Creativity in Authorship
13:05 Navigating the Writing Process: Challenges and Triumphs
19:31 The Magic of Teamwork and the Role of an Editor
24:08 Reflections on a Transformative Writing Journey
25:30 Discovering the Magic of Sleep in a Dreamy Setting
25:59 A Creative Escape: Writing Among the Redwoods
27:02 The Wisdom of Trees: A Spiritual Journey
28:53 Unveiling Personal Transformations Through Nature's Messages
35:52 Empowerment and Growth: Sharing Powerful Book Messages
48:16 Reflections and Insights: Closing Thoughts on a Transformative Week
#LetYourselfBloom #AuthorAdventure #BookLaunch #WritersOfInstagram #InspirationDaily #ReadMoreBooks #CreativeCommunity #Empowerment

Thursday May 02, 2024
Identity Unveiled w/ Jen Banks
Thursday May 02, 2024
Thursday May 02, 2024
Exploring Identity Through an Acrostic Poem
In this episode, Jen Banks announces she is writing a book titled 'Let Yourself Bloom' set to release in September and hints at an upcoming rebrand. The episode's primary focus is on identity, particularly for mothers trying to maintain their own identity through motherhood. Using the acrostic poem format with the word 'IDENTITY,' each letter is used to highlight an aspect of personal identity such as being Individual, Dynamic, incorporating Everything about you, the concept of Neutrality in self-worth, your Talents, viewing yourself through an Inherent Lens, understanding your Tastes and preferences, and how all of these elements make up You. Jen encourages listeners to reflect on their identities, understand their values, and consider writing their own acrostic poem using their name to explore what makes them unique. The episode wraps up with a thank you to the executive producer and a reminder to check out other podcasts in the network.
00:00 Welcome to My World: Book Writing and Rebranding
00:46 Diving Into Identity: An Acrostic Poem Journey
01:51 Exploring the Layers of Identity Through Poetry
07:34 Reflecting on Personal Growth and Relationships
08:56 Homework Assignment: Crafting Your Own Identity Poem
09:56 Gratitude and Acknowledgments
#Podcast #Identity #SelfCare #SelfLove #Empowerment #Motivation #Authenticity #SelfDiscovery

Thursday Apr 25, 2024
Icebergs and Illusions: Navigating Life's Expectations and Realities
Thursday Apr 25, 2024
Thursday Apr 25, 2024
Icebergs and Illusions: Navigating Life's Expectations and Realities
In this solo podcast episode, Jen Banks delves into the topic of 'Icebergs and Illusions,' discussing how expectations about having more time, energy, money, influence, and better relationships often don't align with reality. Through personal stories and reflections, the narrative explores the illusions that many people have about improving aspects of their lives, such as thinking one would have more of a resource if circumstances were different. Jen emphasizes the importance of self-work, realistic expectations, and appreciating what one has. Additionally, the iceberg metaphor is used to describe managing visible tasks versus the hidden, larger workload, suggesting a focus on gradual improvement. The episode encourages listeners to reevaluate how they use their resources and to consider their true influence and potential for happiness without holding onto unrealistic expectations.
00:00 Welcome and Solo Episode Preview
00:43 The Upcoming Author Adventure
00:58 Busyness and Balancing Life
01:34 Icebergs and Illusions: Unpacking Life's Expectations
03:05 Illusion 1: The Myth of More Time
05:03 Illusion 2: The Energy Paradox
07:19 Illusion 3: Financial Fantasies
08:53 Illusion 4: Influence Illusions
09:51 Illusion 5: Relationship Realities
10:20 Concluding Thoughts on Life's Illusions
12:32 Acknowledgments and Farewell
#Podcast #MindsetMonday #Illusions #RealityCheck #PerspectiveShift #PodcastLife #ProductivityHacks #BalanceIsKey #MythsDebunked #NewMindset #HiddenTruths #SelfReflection #SelfGrowth #BreakTheIllusion #LiveYourTruth #Authenticity
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Thursday Apr 18, 2024
How-To Be A Mom In 2024
Thursday Apr 18, 2024
Thursday Apr 18, 2024
The True Essence of Motherhood in 2024: Challenges and Joys
Jen Banks dives into the life of a mother approaching Mother's Day, discussing the unpredictability and demanding nature of motherhood in 2024. It humorously outlines a 'job description*' for being a mom, emphasizing the lack of tangible benefits and the never-ending responsibilities, from executive support to janitorial duties, without any financial compensation. Jen encourages mothers to engage in self-care and lean on their support systems to manage the overwhelming task of motherhood. She also touches upon her personal life, mentioning an upcoming book writing project titled 'Let Yourself Bloom' and the importance of taking care of oneself. The episode is intended to uplift and recognize the invaluable, often underappreciated work mothers do, highlighting the extraordinary, yet challenging aspects of motherhood.
*Adapted from 'A Mom Job Description by Abby Chipman'
00:00 Welcome and Personal Updates
00:53 The Joy of Essential Oils and Self-Care
01:16 Embarking on a Book Writing Adventure
02:02 The Ultimate Guide to Being a Mom in 2024
02:21 The Unspoken Challenges of Motherhood
09:20 Navigating Motherhood with Grace and Self-Care
11:01 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude
#MotherhoodJourney #PodcastCommunity #EmpoweredMoms #AuthorLife #SelfCareSunday #PodcastRecommendation #MomLifeBalance #InspiringWomen
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