Perch "The Thoughtful Pause Podcast"

Send us a text When did woke become such a controversial word? This episode unravels its powerful journey—from a symbol of awareness and social justice to a term used to spark division. Once rooted in the fight for fairness and equality, woke now carries layers of meaning that fuel debates across culture, politics, and workplaces. We explore how this transformation happened and what it says about today's society. Focusing on real stories and history, we connect the past to the present, asking tough questions about freedom of speech, accountability, and the true purpose of awareness. Are we using words like woke to create understanding, or are they tearing us apart? This episode dives into the heart of listening, learning, and engaging in meaningful conversations. If you’re ready to see the bigger picture and rethink the power of language, this is the podcast for you. Remember, your Perch isn’t just a place to sit; it’s a place to seek a higher perspective.

Send us a text At the year's close, I wrote The River of Transformation as a powerful reminder that change doesn’t have to wait. Rather than relying on fleeting New Year’s resolutions, transformation begins with one simple yet profound action: the power of your words. In just three minutes, this episode will challenge you to step into your own flow of change by acknowledging where you've been and using your voice to shape where you’re going. By naming the obstacles that hold you back and speaking life into your journey, you can break through self-doubt, overcome limiting beliefs, and ignite the transformation you've been longing for. This isn’t just about setting goals; it’s about choosing to take control of your path and embracing the power within you—today. #PersonalTransformation, #LifeAlteringTransformation, #OvercomingSelfDoubt, #SelfEmpowerment, #PowerOfWords, Remember, your Perch isn’t just a place to sit; it’s a place to seek a higher perspective.

Send us a text Why are food prices so high right now, and what’s causing it? From supply chain issues and rising fuel costs to the choices we make at the grocery store, this episode breaks down the hidden reasons behind skyrocketing food prices. We’ll explore how the food journey—from farms to warehouses to your table—is more complicated and costly than it seems. Learn why seasonal produce, imported goods, and food waste play a more significant price role than you might think. Discover how private labels can save you money and how restaurants face unique challenges with pricing and waste. Most importantly, we’ll discuss how your eating habits can make a difference. By the end, you’ll see how understanding the food system can help us make more intelligent choices. Please tune in to connect the dots between what you eat, how it gets to you, and what it costs! Remember, your Perch isn’t just a place to sit; it’s a place to seek a higher perspective.

Send us a text Religion shapes our identities, communities, and worldviews, but what happens when it becomes a rigid boundary instead of a bridge to understanding? If religion is considered a taboo subject, how can we ever develop a deeper connection with people who think and believe differently than we do? With over 4,000 religions worldwide, we explore whether it’s the structure and community of faith that draw us in or if there’s something deeper, we’re all seeking. What happens when faith’s boundaries stop meaningful dialogue? Can love, a value shared by so many religions, transcend these divides? Through personal stories and reflection, we ask the tough questions about faith, belonging, and whether religion can adapt to the diverse, ever-changing world we live in. Why do some beliefs foster connection while others create division? How can openness and understanding reshape our faith and our lives? Let’s tackle these questions together and open the door to real conversations about what matters most. Remember, your Perch isn’t just a place to sit; it’s a place to seek a higher perspective.

Send us a text Workplace Loyalty: Is It Still Relevant in Today’s Shifting Culture? In a world where workplace loyalty often feels one-sided, can we still find meaning in being committed to employers who may not always return the favor? As modern work culture evolves, we’re faced with uncomfortable truths about what it means to dedicate ourselves to our jobs truly and whether doing so is even worth it. Social media platforms like LinkedIn and Facebook have blurred the lines between professional identity and personal expression, adding complexity to our sense of belonging at work. This episode challenges you to think deeply: Is loyalty a relic of the past, or can it adapt to a world where boundaries between work and life are increasingly fluid? Together, we explore the cost of allegiance, the power of setting boundaries, and how redefining commitment might allow us to reclaim our time, energy, and purpose. Remember, your Perch isn’t just a place to sit; it’s a place to seek a higher perspective.

Send us a text In this episode of Counting the Cost of Loyalty, we uncover the high emotional cost of settling in love and the true meaning of loyalty in relationships that no longer uplift us. Hosts Tree and Toby explore why so many remain loyal out of fear of loneliness, societal pressures, and financial dependence—forces that often turn love into an “unbreakable saddle” rather than a source of true happiness and growth. "Settling in love is like trading your dreams for comfort—when what you truly deserve is a love that ignites, not one that merely sustains." Tree and Toby dive into how personal insecurities, learned patterns, and societal expectations shape our capacity for self-worth and authentic connections. Drawing from Dr. John Gottman’s relationship insights, they discuss how true loyalty should elevate rather than diminish us. With heartfelt wisdom and humor, Tree and Toby invite listeners to reflect: Is my loyalty lifting me up, or holding me down? This episode speaks to anyone ready to question what a healthy, fulfilling relationship truly means. Remember, your Perch isn’t just a place to sit; it’s a place to seek a higher perspective.

Send us a text In the first episode of our four-part series, Counting the Cost of Loyalty, we ask some challenging questions: Is your loyalty to a political party truly an expression of your beliefs, or are you following a tradition that may no longer serve you? How often do we align with party lines instead of our values? As America’s political landscape becomes more crowded, diverse, and polarized, it's time to pause and reflect—are we staying loyal for the right reasons or simply out of habit? We explore how the lure of personalities and the pull of party doctrines can overshadow our convictions. Are we losing sight of what matters most by aligning too closely with labels that may no longer represent us? And how much influence should a political affiliation have over our personal growth and moral compass? Throughout this episode, we dive into how political tribalism often fuels division and stifles dialogue. Do politicians benefit from keeping us divided? When words like “woke” become weapons to shut down the conversation, who profits and loses? By sharing stories and insights, we highlight how rigid allegiances can limit our potential and even silence us. We also look at how our values shape our political loyalties. In a world where election cycles breed division and hyperbole, is it possible to focus on issues that transcend financial self-interest, like justice and healthcare? Can we move beyond labels to find common ground and reclaim the true power of our voice? As you listen, consider this: When was the last time you questioned the cost of your loyalty? Are you ready to break free from the cycle and redefine what it means to be loyal—not to parties, but to the principles that shape who you are and strive to be? Join us as we ask the hard questions, dig deep into the essence of political loyalty, and encourage a perspective beyond partisanship to pursue what truly matters. Remember, your Perch isn’t just a place to sit; it’s a place to seek a higher perspective.

Send us a text In this episode, we share our unforgettable journey as an interracial couple traveling through France, from the lively streets of Paris to the peaceful charm of Strasbourg. As an African American woman from the west side of Chicago and my partner Toby, who grew up in New York’s Hudson Valley and lived in France during his early years, we experienced the country through unique and personal lenses. Traveling as an interracial couple, we were struck by how comfortable we felt in rural France—an experience that differs from how we sometimes feel in rural parts of the U.S. We also dive into the increasing rates of interracial marriages in America, especially among Latino and Asian communities, and reflect on what these changes mean for society today. Join us for a heartfelt conversation about race, travel, and the cultural insights we gained along the way. #travelinfrance,#paristravel,#cultrual journey,#strasbourgtravel,#travelpodcast https://www.youperch.com/ Remember, your Perch isn’t just a place to sit; it’s a place to seek a higher perspective.

Send us a text Get ready to laugh, cry, and feel all the feels as this relatable journey through the highs and lows of a family reunion. Don't miss out on this heartwarming reminder to choose love over drama with your own family! #FamilyReunionReflections, #BelongingWithFamily, #FamiliesComeTogether, #BlendedFamilyLove, #ChooseLoveOverDrama, #FindingBelonging, #FamilyReunion, #BlendedFamilies, #Ancestors, #Connection, #Picnic Remember, your Perch isn’t just a place to sit; it’s a place to seek a higher perspective.

Send us a text In a world where your parents' traditional values and financial rules have shifted, the advice to work hard and stay loyal to an organization no longer guarantees success. We examine how the landscape has changed and question whether hard work still pays off in today's rule-free world. #Success, #HardWork, #ChangingValues, #GenerationalShift, #WorkCulture #FinancialFreedom, #RuleFreeWorld,#Influencers, #SocialMediaSuccess, #DigitalCreators ,#InfluencerLife, #ContentCreators Remember, your Perch isn’t just a place to sit; it’s a place to seek a higher perspective.

Send us a text In this episode, we explore hope's complex nature, examining its uplifting power and potential downsides. From the inspiring resilience of Olympic athletes to the unrealistic expectations that can lead to disappointment, we break down the pros and cons of hope in today's world. Join us as we delve into how hope can shape our lives for better or for worse. Remember, your Perch isn’t just a place to sit; it’s a place to seek a higher perspective.

Send us a text Real change starts from within; waiting for external factors to improve your life only leaves you feeling powerless. Empower yourself by taking control of your mindset and actions, and watch as you turn life's lemons into lemonade. Remember, your Perch isn’t just a place to sit; it’s a place to seek a higher perspective.

Send us a text Is homeownership out of reach for Gen Z? Discover the drastic shifts in housing affordability, generational wealth disparities, and how evolving ideologies around education and debt shape today's financial struggles, with a focus on systemic issues and the racial wealth gap. Remember, your Perch isn’t just a place to sit; it’s a place to seek a higher perspective.

Send us a text In this episode, we explore whether Generation Z is destined for a lower quality of life than previous generations. We discuss factors like income inequality, cultural shifts, and the rising cost of education. We also emphasize the importance of understanding, empathy, and generational respect while addressing evolving work dynamics and economic challenges. Remember, your Perch isn’t just a place to sit; it’s a place to seek a higher perspective.

Send us a text 🎬 New Video Podcast Episode: The Power of Empathy in Rule-Breaking 🎬 Exploring Gender Stereotypes in Risk-Taking and Career Progression In this illuminating episode, we explore the transformative role of empathy in challenging gender stereotypes and promoting bold career choices. Inspired by the insightful words of Laurel Thatcher Ulrich, "Well-behaved women seldom make history," we offer a deeper understanding of what it takes to break free from traditional norms and forge a path to success. Watch now to gain valuable insights into breaking barriers and leading with courage. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more empowering discussions! #podcast #empathy #rulebreakers #riskmanagement #careerprogression #genderstereotypes #breakfree # Remember, your Perch isn’t just a place to sit; it’s a place to seek a higher perspective.

Send us a text Have you ever questioned what peace truly means to you or considered the sacrifices you're willing to make for it? In our latest episode, we embark on a profound journey to understand the elusive nature of tranquility and its intimate connection with happiness. Our spirited discussion peels back the layers of personal growth, self-awareness, and emotional load sharing. Remember, your Perch isn’t just a place to sit; it’s a place to seek a higher perspective.

Send us a text Joining the Perch is Ken Blackman, a former Apple engineer turned international relationship and intimacy expert. Ken is in his 25th year of helping couples co-create a thriving partnership and an exquisite love life. Ken's unique perspective on intimacy has caught the attention of major publications like Business Insider, Cosmopolitan, and Playboy. He's also been a part of the conversations sparked by Tim Ferriss's 4-Hour series. A regular and featured contributor to The Good Men Project, Better Humans, and Sexography, Ken brings a wealth of knowledge, and today, he's here to share his insights with us. On top of that, he curates his wisdom in his Medium publication, "The Craft of Intimate Coupledom." So, whether you want to deepen your connection or ignite a new spark in your relationship, sit back as we unfold the secrets to a fulfilling partnership with Ken Blackman. Let's get started. https://kenblackman.com Remember, your Perch isn’t just a place to sit; it’s a place to seek a higher perspective.

Send us a text This episode tackles "fake news" and media "echo chambers," advocating for "fact-checking" and "media literacy" to discern "truth" in our "post-truth" era. Join the call for "transparency" and "critical thinking" in safeguarding the "integrity of truth." YOUTUBE LINK https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mtXVWWdpygo Remember, your Perch isn’t just a place to sit; it’s a place to seek a higher perspective.

Send us a text We open our hearts in this episode, delving deep into the timeless message of "We Are the World," a powerful testament to the unifying force of music, juxtaposed against the backdrop of today's fragmented society. As we navigate these turbulent waters, we confront the poignant irony of international aid amidst local homelessness, prompting a profound inquiry: Can we authentically uplift the global community without fortifying our own societal foundations? Join us on this introspective journey as we unravel the complexities of societal cohesion and individual responsibility, seeking to ignite transformative change through candid dialogue and heartfelt introspection. Remember, your Perch isn’t just a place to sit; it’s a place to seek a higher perspective.

Send us a text Monica's return to our podcast couldn't be more timely, as we find ourselves delving into the transformative realms of spirituality, self-help, and the compelling force of accountability. Her journey, marked by both professional accolades and personal revelations, demonstrates how seizing control of our narrative can indeed bend the arc of our lives. Engage in our candid discussion that challenges the common narrative of success and failure lying in the hands of fate, and instead, champions the belief in our own potent potential to craft the reality we envision through purposeful action and unwavering self-belief. Shifting the lens to the internal landscape, we confront the art of detachment from the fruits of our actions, advocating for a life rich with experience over the fixation on outcomes. This episode unravels the ethical tapestries that psychics navigate and the value of authenticity in spiritual evolution. It's a personal voyage into understanding how staying true to oneself can be both an act of defiance and liberation. Listeners will find solace in the stories shared, where embracing one's unique energy signature carves out the space for personal growth, even in the face of societal pressures to conform. Weaving in the threads of empowerment and healing, this dialogue with Monica illuminates the oft-overlooked reservoirs of strength within women, unlocking self-confidence through energy work and hypnosis. Discover how addressing deep-seated traumas can ignite profound changes across the spectrum of life, and learn the simple yet powerful techniques to activate the innate superpowers we all possess. Finally, we remind you to shine your light with gratitude, encouraging each listener to acknowledge their intrinsic value and become a beacon of positivity in their corner of the world. Join us for an episode that promises to uplift, inspire, and transform. Remember, your Perch isn’t just a place to sit; it’s a place to seek a higher perspective.