Messages From the Middle

In this episode of Messages from the Middle, I’m talking about a word that we may actually be underusing: grief. Unlike other therapy buzzwords I’ve covered in this series, grief is a word that usually gets used correctly—but not nearly enough. We’ve come to associate grief solely with death, and while grief absolutely belongs there, it also deserves space in so many other areas of our lives. I share how misunderstanding grief led me to feel unnecessary shame in my own experience, and how learning to name it allowed me to begin healing. I’ll walk you through some of the most common myths around grief—the five stages, the timeline, the hierarchy—and offer a broader, more compassionate view of what grief really is and how it shows up. Whether you’ve experienced the loss of a loved one, the ending of a relationship, the shift of a dream, or just the quiet ache of a life that didn’t turn out the way you thought it would, this episode is an invitation to see grief differently—and to give yourself the permission you may not have known you needed. contact me: email: wendy@wendyparrish.com Instagram: @wendyparrishcoaching

We hear the word boundaries all the time—set them, hold them, respect them—but what do boundaries actually look like in real life? In this episode, I’m breaking down what boundaries are, what they’re not, and why so many of us get them wrong. I talk through common misconceptions, share real-life examples, and offer practical steps for setting boundaries that protect your peace without pushing people away. If you’ve ever felt guilty for saying no, resentful in your relationships, or unsure how to follow through on the limits you’ve set, this one’s for you. I’ll walk you through the emotional backbone of boundary-setting—from self-awareness to self-respect—and help you reconnect with the version of yourself that knows your needs matter, too. contact me: email wendy@wendyparrish.com instagram: @wendyparrishcoaching

In this episode of Therapy Talk Traps: Words We Misuse and How It’s Holding Us Back, I’m diving into the word "gaslighting"—a term that’s become part of everyday conversation, often without a full understanding of what it truly means. While gaslighting is a very real and harmful form of psychological abuse, we’ve started using it to describe everything from disagreements to memory lapses, and that’s a problem. Misusing the term not only waters down its meaning but also makes it harder for real victims of abuse to be recognized, believed, and supported. I explore the origins of the word, what gaslighting actually looks like in abusive dynamics, and why being precise with our language is a powerful step in our healing. I also talk about how casually labeling someone a gaslighter can keep us from the self-reflection and accountability that growth requires. Whether you’ve been confused by the term or you’ve found yourself using it, this episode is a compassionate, honest invitation to get curious—and get clearer—about the words we use and the power they hold. contact me: www.wendyparrish.com email: wendy@wenddyparrish.com instagram: @wendyparrishcoaching

In this kickoff to our summer series, Therapy Talk Traps; Words We Misuse and How They Hold Use Back. Today we're diving into one of the most overused and misunderstood words in today’s mental health conversations: triggered. What does it actually mean to be triggered? And why does casually throwing the word around—when we really mean “uncomfortable”—keep us stuck in patterns that limit growth? We’ll unpack the clinical definition of triggers, discuss how avoidance reinforces fear, and explore how real healing involves learning to face discomfort with courage and support. I’ll also share one of my favorite metaphors—the difference between cows and bison in a storm—and what it can teach us about resilience. Whether you live with PTSD or OCD or you’re just learning how to sit with hard feelings, this episode offers clarity, compassion, and practical tools for facing life’s inevitable storms. contact me: www.wendyparrish.com email: wendy@wendyparrish.com instagram: @wendyparrishcoaching @childsongbird

In this episode of Messages from the Middle, I share a journal entry I found from one of the hardest seasons of my life—and how writing it down became the seed that eventually grew into this podcast. I talk about why journaling can be such a powerful mental health tool, from helping us name and process our emotions to gaining perspective and tracking our growth. I also bring in insights from experts like Dr. James Pennebaker and Brené Brown, who highlight the emotional and psychological benefits of expressive writing. Whether you’re new to journaling or returning to it after a break, I hope this episode offers you encouragement and practical reasons to start. I also share a deeply personal story about a great blue heron—a small but sacred sign of love and connection during a time of deep struggle. If you’ve ever felt lost in the middle of your story, journaling might just be the first step in finding your way forward. Greatest Day Mindset Focus Journal: https://greatestdaymindset.myshopify.com/products/the-focus-journal contact me: email: wendy@wendyparrish.com instagram: @wendyparrishcoaching Facebook: Wendy Parrish Coaching

In this episode of Messages from the Middle, we explore the stories we write for ourselves—the ones filled with magic, love, and happily-ever-afters. But what happens when life doesn’t follow the script? This week I share my journey navigating plot twists and unexpected challenges, and how the very tools and skills I developed in my younger years—like singing, dancing, and writing—became the talismans guiding me through the dark forest of life’s struggles. Join me as I reflects on the power of grounding, embracing big emotions, and holding onto faith, even when the storyline doesn’t go as planned. With honesty and insight, I will invite you to look back at your own story, discover the tools you’ve had all along, and find the courage to keep going—because your story is still unfolding. contact me: website: www.wendyparrish.com email: wendy@wendyparrish.com Instagram: @wendyparrishcoaching @childsongbird

Ever feel like you're doing "all the things"—but somehow nothing important is getting done? In this episode, we explore the sneaky habit of productive procrastination—when you're busy with tasks that feel useful, like organizing, researching, or learning, but they’re actually keeping you from the real work that moves you forward. Using a personal story about transforming her home office, your host shines a compassionate light on how this pattern shows up and why it’s especially common among those with ADHD (but not exclusive to them!). You'll learn how the brain rewards us with dopamine for the idea of progress, even when we’re avoiding the stuff that truly matters. This episode is all about building awareness without shame, and learning how to gently course-correct when our to-do lists become a comfortable hiding place. If you've ever found yourself alphabetizing your spice rack instead of hitting “publish,” this one’s for you. contact me: website: www.wendyparrish.com instagram: @childsongbird @wendyparrishcoaching email: wendy@wendyparrish.com

What if healing isn’t about going back — but about moving forward with more strength, compassion, and resilience than you ever thought possible? In this episode, I dive into the concept of healing in mental health, unpacking what it really means beyond the buzzwords. From my not-so-secret love of time travel stories to imagining what it would be like to "fix" the past, I explore why true healing isn’t about rewinding life, but about learning to live it more fully right now. We’ll get practical, too — breaking down what healing would look like if we treated emotional pain like physical illness. Spoiler: it's not that different. Whether you’re on your own healing journey or still trying to figure out what that even means, this episode offers insight, encouragement, and a gentle nudge to start defining healing for *yourself*. You don’t need a time machine. Just a little honesty, some self-compassion, and the courage to keep showing up. www.wendyparrish.com wendy@wendyparrish.com Instagram: @wendyparrishcoaching @childsongbird

This week on Messages from the Middle I talk about secondary emotions. Secondary emotions are more complex emotions that develop as a result of social and cultural influences, personal experiences, and cognitive processes. Unlike primary emotions (which are universal and biologically hardwired, such as happiness, sadness, fear, anger, surprise, and disgust), secondary emotions are learned and shaped by our interactions with others. Secondary emotions play a significant role in mental health, as they shape how we process experiences, interact with others, and regulate our thoughts and behaviors. When managed well, they contribute to emotional intelligence and resilience. However, difficulties in processing secondary emotions can lead to mental health challenges Take a listen this week to learn about secondary emotions and how they can help you with your mental health. contact me: @childsongbird @wendyparrishcoaching email: wendy@wendyparrish.com

In this episode of Messages from the Middle, I dive into a question I hear all the time: "To diagnose or not to diagnose?" Many people suspect they have ADHD or another neurodivergence but hesitate to seek an official diagnosis. Maybe they don’t see the point, worry about labels, or fear it might hold them back. I get it—I really do. But today, I’m sharing why I chose to seek diagnoses for myself and my kids, and why knowledge can be a powerful tool for understanding, growth, and success. A diagnosis isn’t about limitations—it’s about empowerment. It provides clarity, access to support, and a roadmap for navigating a world that often isn’t built for neurodivergent minds. Whether you’ve already self-diagnosed, had a well-meaning friend diagnose you, or are just starting to ask the question, this episode will help you weigh the benefits of knowing for sure. Because as my daughter once said, “It’s better to know that I’m a regular zebra and not a weird horse.” contact me: wendy@wendyparrish.com instagram: @wendyparrishcoaching @childsongbird

At some point in life, we all lose pieces of ourselves—whether through major transitions, shifting identities, or unexpected challenges. In this episode of Messages From the Middle, I explore what it means to reclaim our purpose, using the story of my beloved reclaimed-wood kitchen table as a metaphor for transformation. Just like that table, we can take what’s been worn down, broken, or forgotten and reshape it into something new. I share my own journey of reclaiming purpose after years of pouring everything into motherhood, only to find myself wondering, "Now what?" Through reflection, growth, and embracing change, I’ve learned that purpose isn’t about returning to what was—it’s about creating something even more meaningful. If you’ve ever felt lost in the shuffle of life, this episode will help you rediscover who you are and what truly matters in this season. contact me: wendy@wendyparrish.com Instagram: @childsongbird OR @wendyparrishcoaching

Resilience isn’t just about bouncing back—it’s about staying in the discomfort long enough to grow. In this episode of *Messages From the Middle*, I explore what it truly means to be resilient through the lens of one of the most controversial moments in Formula 1 history. Lewis Hamilton’s journey from heartbreak to victory isn’t just a story about racing—it’s a masterclass in perseverance. But resilience isn’t just for elite athletes; it’s something we all need to navigate life’s challenges, whether they’re forced upon us or chosen. I also share my personal journey with resilience—from scoring a 1 out of 5 on a resilience scale to learning how to sit with discomfort and use it as a tool for growth. We’ll dive into practical ways to build resilience, embrace discomfort, and shift our mindset when things get tough. Whether it’s through ice baths, tap dancing, or facing fears head-on, this episode will help you see discomfort not as a threat, but as a pathway to strength. contact me: wendy@wendyparrish.com Instagram: @childsongbird OR @wendyparrishcoaching

This week, let's learn about the importance integrating all the stuff your learn from therapy, the books, and the podcast. Getting what you have learned from your head and into your hear. This way you are ready to allow your feelings instead of treating them life a problem to be fixed.You allow your feeling and are able to sit in discomfort to strengthen you mental health. Ever feel stuck between where you are and where you want to be? In Messages from the Middle, I dive deep into the realities of mental health, personal growth, and the messy middle of life. As someone who has lived with ADHD, PTSD, depression, and anxiety, I know firsthand how overwhelming the journey to healing can be. In each episode, I share personal stories, insights from therapy and coaching, and practical tools to help you navigate challenges like FOMO, emotional integration, and finding connection in an isolating world. If you've ever wondered why you're "doing all the right things" but still feel stuck, this podcast is for you. Together, we'll explore topics like mindset shifts, emotional resilience, self-compassion, and the power of community. Whether you're working through past trauma, managing daily stress, or simply trying to build a more fulfilling life, Messages from the Middle is here to remind you—you’re not alone. Tune in for honest conversations, real talk about mental health, and the encouragement you need to keep moving forward. . contact me Instagram: @chidsongbird email: wendy@wendyparrish.com

Ever feel stuck between where you are and where you want to be? In *Messages from the Middle*, I dive deep into the realities of mental health, personal growth, and the messy middle of life. As someone who has lived with ADHD, PTSD, depression, and anxiety, I know firsthand how overwhelming the journey to healing can be. In each episode, I share personal stories, insights from therapy and coaching, and practical tools to help you navigate challenges like FOMO, emotional integration, and finding connection in an isolating world. If you've ever wondered why you're "doing all the right things" but still feel stuck, this podcast is for you. Together, we'll explore topics like mindset shifts, emotional resilience, self-compassion, and the power of community. Whether you're working through past trauma, managing daily stress, or simply trying to build a more fulfilling life, *Messages from the Middle* is here to remind you—you’re not alone. Tune in for honest conversations, real talk about mental health, and the encouragement you need to keep moving forward. In this episode I talk about FOMO and how you can use it to enrich your life. Listen and let me know what you think contact me Instagram: @chidsongbird email: wendy@wendyparrish.com

Have you ever felt stuck in patterns of blame, frustration, or emotional overwhelm? In this podcast, I explore the concept of emotional adulthood—what it means, why it matters, and how embracing it can transform your life. I share insights on how to take responsibility for your thoughts, feelings, and actions, so you can step out of victim mode and into empowerment. With real-life examples, practical tools, and a little tough love, I’ll help you recognize where emotional childhood shows up in your life and how to shift toward a more intentional, fulfilling way of being. If you're ready to reclaim your emotional remote control and stop letting outside circumstances dictate your happiness, this podcast is for you. Together, we’ll break down the mindset shifts that lead to real growth, self-awareness, and healthier relationships. Let’s learn how to show up as the strongest, most authentic versions of ourselves. contact me: email wendy@wendyparrish.com Instagram: @childsongbird

Sadness is often seen as something to avoid, but what if it’s actually a crucial part of our emotional well-being? In this episode, I reflect on a powerful moment from a recent gathering with my closest friends—a tradition of Angel Tarot readings that led me to an unexpected realization. Through personal stories and insights from the movie "Inside Out", I explore why sadness isn’t a bad thing but rather an essential part of processing emotions, fostering growth, and deepening our appreciation for joy. Good mental health isn’t about being happy all the time; it’s about allowing ourselves to feel the full range of emotions. Sadness can bring clarity, self-reflection, and even motivation for change. In this episode, I break down the ways sadness serves us, how it connects us to others, and why embracing all our feelings—both the highs and the lows—is the key to emotional balance. Tune in as we shift our perspective on sadness and learn to see it as a valuable part of the human experience. contact me: wendy@wendyparrish.com Instagram: @chilidsongbird

In this episode of *Messages from the Middle*, I dive into the concept of toxic positivity—the idea that we should always look on the bright side, no matter what. While positivity has its place, forcing it at the expense of real emotions can be harmful. Phrases like *“just stay positive”* or *“everything happens for a reason”* might sound encouraging, but they can actually dismiss and invalidate genuine feelings. So, how do we balance optimism with emotional honesty? Join me as I explore the difference between healthy positivity and toxic positivity, share real-life examples (including a story about lost luggage in Africa!), and offer practical steps for processing emotions in a way that leads to true resilience. Because real emotional strength isn’t about pretending everything is fine—it’s about allowing yourself to feel, process, and move forward in an authentic way. contact me: email- wendy@wendyparrish.com Instagram: @childsongbird

In this episode of Messages from the Middle, I, dive deep into one of the most challenging aspects of ADHD: Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD). Last week, I shared how RSD has impacted my life and held me back from living boldly. This week, I focus on the antidote—self-confidence—and how it can help us overcome the paralyzing fear of failure or rejection. Together, we’ll explore what self-confidence truly means, why it’s tied to our ability to process emotions, and how we can build trust in our emotional resilience to step into life with courage. Join me as I unpack essential skills like psychological flexibility, mindfulness, and self-compassion, and share actionable steps to help you feel, process, and grow through even the toughest emotions. Whether you’re navigating RSD or seeking a fresh perspective on emotional health, this episode offers tools to reclaim your power and live with greater confidence. talk to me: email: wendy@wendyparrish.com instagram: @childsongbird

What do Gilmore Girls and my kindergarten meltdown over a happy face stamp have in common? I am glad you asked. Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD) From a kindergarten meltdown over not earning a double smiley-face stamp to the emotional landmines of high school and adulthood, I share personal anecdotes about how RSD has shaped my life. I discuss how RSD affects creativity, relationships, and even the way we interpret simple texts like “Call me.” This episode is for anyone trying to understand themselves or their loved ones who may experience heightened sensitivity to rejection and failure. Tune in for insights, empathy, and a reminder that our unique traits—nerfs and buffs alike—can serve as both challenges and strengths. contact me: email: wendy@wendyparrish.com instagram @childsongbird

In this new episode I talk about my sure fire strategy to manage a racing mind and anxiety. That is too get out of my head and into my body through the breath. When life feels overwhelming, focusing on your breath can be a simple yet powerful way to calm your mind and reconnect with the present. Breathing exercises can alleviate stress, improve mood, and even help with sleep and pain management. Intentional breathing works by engaging the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes relaxation and lowers stress levels. Focusing on your breath not only slows your heart rate but also helps you let go of fear, regret, and shame, bringing you back to the here and now. listen to this episode to get your connected to your breath. contact me: wendy@wendyparrish.com instagram @childsongbird