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Hello, freethinkers! Welcome to another episode of Live Your Freedom Now. If you tuned in to last week’s episode, you know that today I’ll be starting  the journey of sharing more about each of the Five Practices of Freedom (didn’t catch the last episode, listen to that HERE). These practices are an invitation to listen and think critically about the Dominant Dogma all around you and tap into your natural human tendency to embody your freedom; in your authentic and unique present moment.  So, let’s get to it! In today’s episode, I’ll dive deeper into: The first practice of freedom: Playful Curiosity How this practice is often seen at exploratory phases in healing journeys; as folks begin to question and notice their feelings Some first-person musings about my experiences with Playful Curiosity How finding play and joy in this practice is key The manifestations of this practice: asking vulnerable questions, noticing where my worldview is not serving me anymore, and unraveling generations of internalized beliefs A handful of journal prompts to help spur some internal curiosity Pull Quotes: “The practices can loop and overlap and because of this there is no right or wrong way to engage on this journey. Utilize the practices as they feel good for you, and remember the primary goal is always to live your freedom, right here, right now.”   “This phase is that part of your journey when you begin noticing that something in your present world is not quite aligned. It’s where you evaluate your current beliefs, values, and circumstances to begin noticing where things are no longer feeling aligned.”   “It was time to explore the world I was living in and the world that was within me, a world that was seemingly wiser than I ever gave it credit for. It was time for me to get deeply curious.”   “This Playful Curiosity Practice and the process of reclaiming freedom for a new aspect of yourself often includes asking vulnerable questions about your human experience, noticing where your worldview is not serving you anymore, and unraveling years or even generations of internalized Dominant Dogma.” Mentions & More: My 1:1 coaching series! Book a FREE clarity call with me to get started: https://megscolleen.com/book-a-free-call/ My Instagram! If you work with some of these journal prompts or feel compelled by what was shared in this episode, please feel free to connect with me there. 

Welcome back, Freethinkers! I hope this letter finds you living here and now — living your freedom. If you’re feeling a little stuck, anxious, or overwhelmed, that’s cool, too. I’m here to guide you to personal freedom in a way that feels best for you. There’s no rush; no timeline; no special milestone you need to hit in your healing. You being here is enough. That being said, in this episode, I share an introduction to my 5 Practices of Personal Freedom, which sets the tone for some other upcoming episodes. Come along, it’s a good one! In this episode, I explore: An overview of my 5 Practices of Personal Freedom How living in our freedom right here, right now, is a radical act of self love and rebellion in our “power over” systems What living in your freedom looks like in a practical sense My practices, which encourage us to question the narratives we’ve been told, re-develop our connection and belief in our selves, and establish new beliefs and narratives that support the self, others, and the planet The 5 Practices of Personal Freedom: Playful Curiosity, Non-Judgement & Awareness, Self-Trust, Integrity & Congruence, and Resilience Feedback from my clients about how these practices and my coaching have impacted them Pull Quotes “It is my belief that the harmful systems, patterns, and Dominant Dogma (both internal and external) are what keep us from functioning as a whole and integrated ecosystem, both within ourselves and as a collective.” “Living Your Freedom Now can result in many life shifts, both personally and as a ripple effect to those around you.” “When you begin your Freedom Journey you are choosing your own liberation. I believe on the collective and global level when you embark on your Freedom Journey you are choosing to help liberate and heal the planet.” Mentions & More Dr. Andy Fisher’s teachings on Modern Disconnection My  1:1 coaching series! Book a FREE clarity call with me to get started:  https://megscolleen.com/book-a-free-call/

Welcome back, Freethinkers! I am really excited to have your listening ears today with this new episode of Live Your Freedom Now. Today, I’ll be exploring the Dominant Dogma that has placed many of us (ahem, eldest siblings and perfectionists of the world) in a “hero” role.  I am here to guide you through these experiences and expectations of rising to the occasion to find personal freedom and boundaries aside from a “caretaker” role. As Edna Mode says in The Incredibles, “no capes!”  In this episode, I’ll explore: How caretaking and “hero” roles are lived out beyond core family units and in workplace and personal relationships The impact perfectionism has on us in the long-term, such as extended Fight/Flight/Freeze coping mechanisms  My own experiences surrendering my “hero” role and finding belonging and meaning just by being me The freedom of being seen beyond your hero role and embraced for who you truly are The power in handing back responsibility, saying no, and setting meaningful boundaries  Pull Quotes “You learned how to become part-time therapist, part-time activist, and part-time care-taker—to your friends, your siblings, and perhaps even your parents.” “I could no longer ‘make’ anyone happy. I was unable to ‘fix’ the problem. My competence was no longer able to function at extraction level status. As I lost my ability to play hero, those who relied on and expected me to play this role moved on to find someone else to fill this role.” “Supremacy culture teaches that ‘fixing’ others, saving face, and maintaining control is how you attain success. It's how you ‘earn’ belonging. This adaptive strategy, which many of us (myself included) took on as children, became an ingrained and celebrated Dominant Dogma strategy as adults. But at what cost?” “With a hero around, family members and close friends don’t need to clean up their messes nor come face to face with the lessons they are meant to learn in this life. This dynamic, cultivates codependency and a distorted view of how relationships should be.” “You can still achieve, lead, and help others with consent and healthy boundaries. But it is not, and never has been your job to save everyone.” “You are whole, worthy, and enough, even when you can’t save ANYONE. You are worthy because you are.” Mentions & More I still have some summer coaching series openings available! Learn more about my 1:1 coaching offerings.

Greetings, Freethinkers!  I come to you today with an invitation to move freely through your feelings — and to show up in the world, taking up space with the confidence that you are not, and never have been, too much. Today, I’ll be exploring the Dominant Dogma that shares, “you take up too much space.” Essentially the cultural conditioning that has forced you, as a bright and vibrant being, to be small and controlled in your personal life, your creative endeavors, and even your health and wellbeing. Enough is enough.  I’ll be walking you through some big topics today, such as: Noticing, honoring, and listening to your emotions How Dominant Dogma has suppressed your big feelings in the name of “not rocking the boat” My personal experiences of fitting myself into boxes as not to be perceived as “too much” How fitting myself into dominant narratives has instilled maladaptive coping strategies The freedom on the other side; living with wholeness, congruence, and integrity The concept of congruence and how to work with your emotions, instead of against them Pull Quotes “When you live dissociated, you’re easier to control. You maintain the status quo, live within the boxes that support the Dominant Dogma of your subculture, and you don’t rock the boat.” “I would be cold, hungry, thirsty or even need to use the restroom, but I would force myself to be fine because I was afraid to take up space. I disconnected from my needs so I wouldn’t have to face the Dominant Dogma of “too muchness” as enforced by family, friends, and community members.” “Instead of being honest with myself, which could result in others feeling uncomfortable or me possibly rocking the boat, it feels “safer” to be jumbled, unsure, uncertain and then take action on the most “acceptable” thing to do.” “How do you live with congruence? You allow your emotions and process them. You honor your body and your needs. You speak directly to the elephant in the room instead of hiding or waiting for someone else to address the situation.” “This is your invitation to show up fully, for it is in your clear communication and congruent living where you invite freedom from the inside out.” Mentions & More Living with congruence My summer coaching books are open! Learn more about my 1:1 coaching offerings.

Welcome back, FreeThinkers! I hope today’s podcast episode finds you in a comfortable spot where you can notice your surroundings and experience this moment just as it is, tapping into your personal freedom of living in the here and now. This week’s episode invites you to tap into the power of receiving. So often, Dominant Dogma pushes us to give, give, give, until there is nothing left. This concept often resonates a lot for folks who were raised as women and girls, who are constantly fed the message that their worth is in their service of others. Yeah, this one is for the people pleasers out there!  I am eager to share my personal experiences with this Dogma, and I’m even more excited to share some insights about finding freedom on the other side. In this episode, I’ll explore: The nuance that, yes, of course, it’s important to give and support others, but when we send that into overdrive, it becomes toxic. How folks (especially women) in service-based establishments see this Dogma playing out constantly: “It is better to give than receive.” A story about how this people-pleasing mentality impacted my creative business even (and especially)  at age 17 Another story about how setting my boundaries and communicating my expectations worked in my favor and made me feel safe and empowered How true freedom lay in the beauty of belonging to ourselves, together. Pull Quotes: “Utilizing this virtue and others like it, folks in many subcultures, especially humans socialised as girls, become so focused on giving, serving, and pleasing others that they forget the importance of taking care of themselves.” “Whether you find yourself pleasing others in business or in relationship, the truth is the same: True freedom, success, and thriving is not pleasing others at the expense of your own wellbeing.” “It is not your job to please others, it’s not your job to meet their needs, it’s not your job to squish yourself into the tiny box you perceive is needed so you can be ‘good.’” “When you embody your wholeness, you invite others to do the same.” Mentions & More: Kate Raworth’s brilliance and wisdom in “the safe and just space of humanity” My summer coaching books are open! Learn more about my 1:1 coaching offerings.

Greetings, FreeThinkers, and welcome back to another episode of Live Your Freedom Now! It’s not just another episode, either, but our 20th episode! I can’t believe we’re already 20 episodes in, and I am so grateful for all of your support for this podcast. To celebrate today, I’d like to check in and remind us of our why. I’d like to come back to concepts like Dominant Dogma, to remind you of my story, and bring us back to a place where we feel empowered and supported as we live in our power.  So, let’s hop to it! Today, I’ll be discussing: How we can unpack dominant cultural narratives (Dominant Dogma) to find freedom on the other side How Dominant Dogma has infiltrated our lives and made us feel overwhelmed and insecure, among other big feelings What it looks like to reclaim our freedom and truly live in our power My personal story of seeking “enough-ness” and how I have ultimately come home to myself The beauty of redefining freedom as our tools for fighting oppressive systems How living in your personal freedom gives way to collective healing Pull quotes: “And that is why this podcast, and my work as a coach and practitioner exists: To help you question and peel back the Dominant Dogma that surrounds you and evaluate the subsequent internalized Dominant Dogma that keeps you caged within your own mind.” “Around here we not only reclaim our freedom, we live it out.” “I bought into this lack mentality, consistently believing I was not enough, I was broken, I needed to be rescued. I believed in a solution outside of me, a product outside of me, a guru outside of me, a Dominant Dogma outside of me. Now I have come home to me.” “My desire is to redefine freedom by inviting humanity, regard, and reciprocity back into our personal freedom journeys.” “Living my liberation in the present IS my rebellion.” “Live Your Freedom Now is a personal movement to reclaim your wholeness. Reclaim your enoughness. Reclaim your right to be human.” Mentions & More: As always, inspiration from Carl Jung Access to my Freedom Manifesto Learn more about 1:1 coaching with me: https://megscolleen.com/one-on-one-coaching/

Greetings, Freethinkers! Welcome back to my little podcast corner of the universe. I am really glad you’re here with me today. I’m especially stoked for this episode because it’s a bit longer and a bit different than most of our recent pods. Today I will be chatting with my friend, Thaís Sky, who is a psychotherapist and writer and has some brilliant insights to share about worthiness. You can learn more about her in the bio below! This conversation sure is a juicy one — and a healing one — but I do want to let you know ahead of time that we will be briefly discussing eating disorders and body image. If these topics are triggering to you, please take care and feel free to skip to the next episode.  In this episode, Thaís and myself will be diving into: Thaís’ healing journey and overcoming the feeling of inadequacy What it actually looks like to embrace your worthiness and bridge the gap between your feelings of inadequacy and your personal freedom Finding worth in a culture that thrives off of you feeling unworthy How your family and community can be protective factors or risk factors in your development of self How your relationships and the beauty of co-regulation can help you heal Some tips for deepening your belonging to yourself Pull Quotes: “As I began, what I call my healing journey, or just the exploration of the inside… I started to rub up against this chronic state of inadequacy, which doesn't just mean that I didn't feel good enough, but also in ways that I felt too much that I was too loud, too opinionated, too boisterous, too, etc.” (6:47) “My past has really been informed by an understanding that when we know ourselves, and when we become more curious about our culture and self intersect, the more we can decide we have more choice, we have more freedom, more possibility, more options.” (8:41) “I really wanted to find myself, and I couldn’t.” (11:16) “Can you ever find worth in a culture that tells us that you shouldn't be the way you are? You know, that's a question that it can be really hard to sit with, if we have identities that go against our culture's expectations or ideas of what normal look like, I mean, how do you how do you find space to exist within yourself?” (12:45) “The way that I have really understood the worthiness wound is that it's an emotional wound. That's why I decided to call it a worthiness wound because I wanted to kind of evoke thoughts of a wounding something that exists But within us that we can't just kind of bandaid over that that's, you know, it requires attention and requires thought and presence and healing.” (14:42) “The worthiness wound is essentially a wound of belonging, it's telling us that there is something within us that does not belong. And so healing, it requires us to find belonging.” (18:12) “I think we are in, especially our western, kind of individualistic notions of ‘we shouldn't need people, we should be able to be self sufficient.’ And I think what we're missing in that equation is that we actually, so desperately do need people, and we need them for our survival.” (21:43) “Wherever you are on your healing journey is exactly where you're supposed to be.” (29:56) “We can't do it alone. We shouldn't to do it alone. Why would we have to do it alone?” (31:49) “There's people out there that want to help you. You’re allowed to receive that. You're allowed to seek that. And if it didn't work the first time, keep trying. Keep trying to find it. You know, don't give up on yourself.” (39:12) “The attachment is so critical to our well being, we will give up so much of our internal world if it means surviving. And isn't that so incredible that we do this as humans? The resilience and the human nature, we will find ways to survive. And that may be now as adults, we get to go beyond survival. And we get to go to thriving.” (48:36) Mentions & More: Thaís’ website: https://www.thaissky.com/ Thaís’ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamthaissky/ “Schopenhauer’s Porcupines: Intimacy And Its Dilemmas: Five Stories of Psychotherapy” by Deborah Anna Luepnitz Donald Winnicott’s psychoanalysis legacy

Hello, friends! I hope you’re doing well, finding peace, and are in a comfortable space to listen to this week’s episode. Today I will be talking about earning our belonging again, but this time, I’m exploring how that Dominant Dogma relates to spirituality. Before we get too deep into the conversation, I wanted to let you know that I will be discussing the harm of Evangelical Christianity, citing a popular Christian Theologian, and quoting a bible verse which relates to today’s Dominant Dogma. If you are currently recovering from religious trauma and find topics like this triggering, please take care and feel free to skip to the next episode. That being said, I’m very eager for you to hear my insights and research points about this big topic. Let’s jump in (or move very slowly and gracefully — whatever feels best for you)! This week, I will explore: The painful (and untrue) cultural belief that you are inherently corrupt just by existing How many theological creation stories make us believe in and practice perfectionism The monopoly evangelical Christianity has on the United States, and how we are only redeemed when we pledge our allegiance  A reminder that spirituality as a whole is not bad, but using it to control, manipulate, and abuse others is. The truth that you are safe, worthy, and loved with or without a connection to religion or spirituality. Pull Quotes: “This Dominant Dogma doesn’t provide any room for respite, because it states that you, your soul, the core of your existence, is not enough. You are not worthy as a person and in fact you are morally corrupt just for exsisting.” “I don’t believe spirituality as a whole is harmful. Having a sense of connection to the greater world, having a higher power, and having historical books which teach myths and archetypes to support growth and self-reflection is incredible.” “What we are evaluating here on the podcast are the narratives surrounding each one of us that become our conditioning. We do this so we can drag the unconscious out into the light, evaluate it, and determine if it’s actually serving us, or if we need to hand it back for something more supportive.” “The Dominant Dogma that says you must earn your belonging and worth, is instantly dissolved when you find peace and freedom in the present.” Mentions & More: Reflections on self-worth by John Piper: https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/reflections-on-the-concept-of-self-worth James Boyce’s brilliant interpretation of original sin and its impact on modern society A little insight from Carl Jung Learn more about my 1:1 coaching offerings!

Welcome back, my loves,  Today’s episode is a bit longer because there are so many juicy pieces to take a bite from. This topic is also near and dear to me, and it was important to me that I make this episode as thoughtful and comprehensive as possible. So let’s get into it! I am eager to explore the Dominant Dogma that, like last week’s topic of earning our belonging with our bodies, insists that we have to think and behave in certain ways in order to belong. Before we get too far, I want to let you know that I will be doing a lot of discussion around mental health and neurodivergence. While I identify as neurodivergent and hold certifications in Life Coaching and EcoPychology, I am not a mental health expert. You’ll hear in the podcast how I consulted with experts and other folks with lived experiences to thoughtfully craft this episode for you. This week, I will explore: A brief review of terms and topics like “neurodivergent” and “highly sensitive person” How the belief that we must earn our belonging with our minds shows up in our daily lives How most social norms do not create an environment for those with mental health conditions to thrive What implicit ableism looks and sounds like for neurodivergent people (AKA: Dominant Dogma in the wild) How coping strategies like “masking” cause harm to neurodivergent people and how forcing people to behave in certain ways — or ‘mask’ — upholds ableism  And, most importantly, how, despite all of these challenges, you do deserve to thrive and live a life you love, no matter how your brain works.  Pull Quotes: “While this Dominant Dogma is largely upheld unconsciously (hello, implicit ableism)  the “requirements for belonging” come through loud and clear.” “Despite my efforts to please those around me and hide my difference, I was told that the office functioned better without me present, I was being uncollaborative, I was too emotional, and that I needed to work harder.” “Prior to my journey with mental health, self-development, and my awareness of my neurodivergence among other things, I considered myself an empath. In truth, this “empathic” ability was one in the same with masking and people-pleasing.” “I am responsible for myself. I can ask for clarity, I can enter into a consentual meeting of needs, upon establishing clarity of emotions I can sympathize if it feels appropriate and safe. However, I am only responsible for myself.” “We are nature, and just as nature craves a biodiverse ecosystem, we also need a biodiverse ecosystem in how our lives are lived, how our brains function, and how our personalities unveil themselves!” Mentions & More: Definitions for “neurodivergent” and “highly sensitive person” More in-depth exploration of being a highly sensitive person by Very Well Mind and The Guardian The wonderful Neurodivergent Narrative podcast with Sandra Coral Research about how masking or “social camaflouging” can be harmful to neurodivergent folks  Learn more about my 1:1 coaching offerings!

Hello hello, my friends! I am so thrilled to have you back again this week. Before we get too invested in this week’s episode summary, I want to let you know that in today’s episode I discuss eating disorders and body image, if these topics are triggering to you please take care and feel free to skip to the next episode.  That being said, this week, I will guide us through a conversation surrounding the Dominant Dogma that makes us feel like we must earn our belonging with our bodies. Woof. It’s a heavier one, that’s for sure! But I truly believe that the more we uncover these big feelings and explore these topics in a safe environment, the closer we get to living our freedom now.  So, what do you say? In this episode, I’ll explore: How humans (especially those socialized as girls) are made to believe that they must earn their belonging by fitting in with how their body looks and functions How this particular Dominant Dogma leans into supremacy, patriarchy, colonialism and ableism The nuance we miss out on and the beauty of other human beings we pass by because we are so attuned to this way of thinking Some examples of “Dominant Dogma in the wild” that shows up all around us every day  My personal experiences with this internalized Dominant Dogma and how I combat that to feel at home in my body Pull Quotes: “Deeply rooted in supremacy, colonialism, and patriarchy, this Dominant Dogma is also incredibly ableist requiring humans to fit the mold of thin, athletic, and high-functioning in order to belong.” “Many may think that amidst the body-positivity movement these narratives are changing, and thankfully this is true to an extent, but we have a long way to go, both as a culture and as individuals, as we hand back the unconscious and internalized variations of this Dominant Dogma.” “I embrace my body, however they present today, and in so doing I choose my freedom, now.” Mentions & More:  What is body image?  How body image impacts our mental health  More insights on the link between body image and mental health A look into the cultural systems that oppress our bodies (thanks, Jamie Lee Finch!)  Learn more about my 1:1 coaching offerings!

Hello!  I am really stoked for this week’s episode of Live Your Freedom Now, because the Dominant Dogma we’re confronting today is something that speaks to the perfectionist inside of me — and it’s something I need to hear. I hope you feel the same. We’ll be exploring the “get it together” mentality that makes us feel like we have to, well, get our sh*t together to be worthy of love, respect, and success. Certainly, our hyper-perfectionist culture on social media doesn’t help us think critically about this Dominant Dogma, but it also goes all the way back to certain creation stories that relay the message that we are inherently bad (or sinful) and need to do, say, or be certain things to be considered enough. I say no more!  In this episode, I’ll dive into: Our desires to have our lives and business together for people to want to purchase from us, or even be in relationships with us How our hyper-perfectionist culture is damaging our mental health The Dominant Dogma of “getting it together” and what that can look and sound like in our daily lives How long-lasting concepts like sin and redemption have become tools of our capitalist society The freedom in being a messy human Pull Quotes: “Passed down from our ancestors is the belief that we are inherently bad, or sinful, resulting in the sensation that we are not enough, that we need to get it together, and that we are not worthy of thriving until we do.” “The truth is: We’re all messy, figuring it out humans, and it doesn’t matter where you are in your life or business: The work you have to offer is valid.” “I am a trained coach, healer, marketer, and artist…and I’m a human living and figuring out life just like everyone else.” “You are worthy of thriving right here and now. You are worthy of running a business right here and now. You are worthy of living your freedom, living your self-authorized liberation, now.” Mentions & More: James Boyce’s wisdom on “How original sin led to a western obsession with self-help” My Creative Business Accelerator: On My Terms  My FREE Integral Sales & Marketing Masterclass for you to download NOW

Hello hello!  I’m back and ready to dive into another Dominant Dogma. This time, you might think I’m a little crazy for even suggesting it, but I’m going to rebut that you need to use social media to market your business. I know, it goes against everything we small business owners have learned in the last few years. But I think we all deserve to get to a place where using social media feels good and fun, and isn’t a source of shame or surface-level success. The Dominant Dogma tells us we must use social media to market our businesses, and I’m telling you: the choice is yours. In this episode, I’ll explore: The dark side of social media How social media companies have lured us into a “free” way to market our businesses by turning us into their products How we can engage with social media in a way that feels unique and true to ourselves Where we can find connection in our communities outside of our little pocket computers Pull Quotes: “Due to social media being “free” in order to grow their empire these companies have made YOU their product, selling your attention and clicks to their advertising clients.” “This message is typically preached from folks who are selling something to help you improve your social media game.” “The fact is, you don’t need social media if you don’t want it, and if you do want to use social media, that’s ok too! It’s truly your choice.” “Keep community and connection as your first priority. Allow marketing to be a natural byproduct, sharing about your work when and where it will be most beneficial.” Mentions & More: Merriam Webster’s definition of social media Jaron Lanier’s  book, “10 Arguments For Deleting Your Social Media Accounts Right Now.”  1% For the Planet The Creative Coalition My Creative Business Accelerator: On My Terms  My FREE Integral Sales & Marketing Masterclass for you to download NOW

Greetings, my loves! Today, I am writing you with an invitation to just say no. In fact, consider this your imaginary permission slip to say no (and your parents don’t even have to sign it!) I am eager for you to hear this episode, where I will explore the Dominant Dogma that persuades us to “just say yes.” Say yes to every opportunity, ask, or task. The Dominant Dogma that has set us up for burnout or misalignment; that often removes our autonomy and convinces us that our worth is only apparent when we are giving parts of ourselves away in service of others. What would happen if you operated from a place of aligned, honest self-service? Can you imagine that? A world where, if you’re not saying “no,” you’re only saying “hell yes?”  Hell YES, I can imagine that! Let’s dive in. In this episode, I’ll be exploring: The negative effects of always saying yes How misaligned agreements keep us from engaging with projects that feel meaningful and fulfilling The ways out of this endless “yes” cycle Sharing a story from my client, Emily, as she navigates the same journey to personal freedom Pull Quotes: “Consistently saying yes can result in misaligned agreements and burnout over time.” “When we are socialized to ‘just say yes,’ it’s incredibly easy to find an agreed-upon exchange shifted without true consent.” “She began giving herself permission to thrive instead of waiting for someone to give it to her.” “Reciprocal Relationships in business are as important as reciprocal relationships in life, so I encourage you to evaluate your agreements. Are they supportive? Do they light up your spirit? Do they feel like the agreements you want to be in to further your future?” Mentions & More: My Creative Business Accelerator: On My Terms  My FREE Integral Sales & Marketing Masterclass for you to download NOW

Welcome back, beautiful humans! I am eager to share this week’s podcast episode with you because this topic allowed me to explore and learn more, and I think you might feel the same way. Today, I am approaching the Dominant Dogma of Fast Cash; the narrative that sells us on the idea we can make heaps of money with some simple “step-by-step plan.” But, if you’re a creative business owner, you probably have a different experience, and you’re probably ready and anxious to break free from the toxic narratives that push us toward fear and away from ourselves. I got you. For real, there are some juicy journal prompts in this one. Let’s get to it! In this episode, I’ll explore: The icky feelings behind Fast Cash Dominant Dogma and how it taps into our shame and fear The systemic issue behind our craving of — and difficulty achieving — financial stability How we can find freedom in a new way forward, incorporating regenerative and sustainable business practices Some in-depth journal prompts that can help us process our relationship to this Dominant Dogma (and find freedom without it) And I’ll give you a reminder that you CAN do this — without all the manipulative bullshit Pull Quotes: “The humans writing these six-figure formulas share these messages of fast cash because they know it’s what many people are craving. They feed off your need for financial stability to fund their international travels and brand-name clothing.” “While six figures sound catchy and thrilling, your need for financial stability points to an even greater disparity in the culture at large.” “I do believe that handing back this Dominant Dogma starts with living your freedom now and learning to grow a business sustainably, with integrity, and with heaps of self-compassion.” “Sustainable business is possible, monetary success (whatever that looks and feels like for you) is possible, thriving is possible, and we can do it on our terms.” Mentions & More: Daniel Rosehill’s insights on six-figure culture  Some sexy statistics from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (AKA inflation numbers) A few more sexy statistics, but this time from the Census Bureau (AKA income and poverty numbers)  My Creative Business Accelerator: On My Terms  My FREE Integral Sales & Marketing Masterclass for you to download NOW

Greetings, my friends! Today, I am excited to be in your listening ears as I share another “Dominant Dogma” that has infiltrated my life — and probably yours! This week, I will dive into the idea of FOMO (or the fear of missing out) and how scarcity mindset sells us on the next big thing, or the next coolest trend, until we can barely recognize who we are.  Oof. I’ll make it a little more fun than that, I promise!  In this episode, I’ll explore: Some terminology that has shaped the way we market ourselves and our businesses How extracting and taking — instead of regenerating and sustaining — has become the norm in the business world How marketing pros tap into our fight or flight responses — and how I am learning to step into my freedom instead of into that trap. How it’s OK to have boundaries and limitations (in fact, it’s healthy and encouraged!) Pull Quotes: “This is is when scarcity comes into play: When someone, or some entity over extracts from the resources available, leaving the most vulnerable without.” “Marketers are taught to utilize the fear of missing out, an ever-increasing phenomenon due to social media, and engage folks' innate fight or flight survival mechanisms in order to make a sale.” “Your personal capacity, your business capacity, and the environmental capacity is the real limitation. The true scarcity that is fair and ethical to communicate clearly.” “I desire to share my gifts and skillsets sustainably and consensually with the people who align, resonate, and need what I have to offer, and I trust that is enough.” Mentions & More:  FOMO Scarcity mindset in business My Creative Business Accelerator: On My Terms  My FREE Integral Sales & Marketing Masterclass for you to download NOW

Welcome welcome! I want to start this week off with a few questions: How many times have you felt pressured to buy a new product, training, or interface to properly market your business? How many times have you felt the need to give into trends, even if you didn’t quite like them, or you felt it was hard to make them stick with your vision and purpose? How often have you been encouraged to spend money to tell your story? I say: no more! Sure, there are some wonderful, valuable tools out there, but ultimately, I want to help you realize that you do not need the latest trend, the funkiest filter, or the most expensive social media class out there to make an impact. You are intelligent, intuitive, and far wiser than you may realize. You have the freedom to market your business and tell your story with what is accessible to you right here and now. In this episode: We’ll take a new approach! You’ll be hearing from Jessicah Travis, one of my incredible clients, as she unlearns the Dominant Dogma telling her: “You don’t know how to market! Buy this to learn how!” You’ll hear how Jessicah let go of the “shoulds” and “musts” to lead a business of her own making You’ll get a first-hand account of the benefits of my Creative Business Accelerator, and you can decide if it’s right for you. Pull Quotes “Despite having decades of experience leading groups and growing communities in a previous role, I felt I just didn’t know enough when it came to growing these new businesses.” “I found myself remembering that my business is MY business. Meaning, I can build it around who I am instead of around what the industry says it should be.” “It's not because there is a magic formula. It's because you will find your magic that will create exactly what your soul wanted to create.”   Mentions & More Learn more and sign up for my “On My Terms” Creative Business Accelerator: https://megscolleen.com/on-my-terms/ Meet Jessicah Travis, this week’s guest! Share how this story resonated with you or just connect with me by shooting a text to 312-815-2774

Welcome back, you wonderful human! I’m glad to have you here for episode 9 of Live Your Freedom Now. Can you believe it?! I am excited today to talk a little more deeply about how Dominant Dogma weaves its way into life and business coaching and how we can reclaim our unique experiences and be guided and grounded by alignment and purpose.  Today, my goal is to deconstruct the Dominant Dogma of “I did it, and so can you!” to embrace our individual experiences, confront privilege, and learn how to market ourselves with integrity. I am excited to talk about my personal experiences with this concept and shed some light on how we can be more intentional in our approach to growth and freedom.  In this episode, I’ll talk about: How statements like “I did it, and so can you!” preys on vulnerability for the sake of profit The need to consider different lived experiences, identities, and privileges when coaching  My own experiences (and financial losses) falling into this Dominant Dogma ideology How to sell and market our businesses with integrity  Pull Quotes “Coaches, often unconsciously, buy into this Dominant Dogma, sharing a message of, “I had this success, now I’m teaching you my “secret” so you can do the same!” This message is usually shared without any recognition of privilege or how most humans have wildly different journeys to success and thriving.” “This message preys off the vulnerable (i.e. those needing money and relatively fast business success) and creates a hierarchy between the seller and the purchaser, upholding power over structures and creating microcosms of domination.” “How can I more deeply ground into spaciousness and consent?” “This space is for you if you are ready to hand back the “shoulds” and the “musts” that have seized control of your business to reclaim your vision and run your business on your terms.” Mentions & More:  My Mornings Playlist (hello, French acoustic tunes!) Learn more about my Creative Business Accelerator: “On My Terms” My Freedom Manifesto - download it for free! I’m a ⅗ in Human Design! Learn more about Human Design.

Welcome back to another episode of Live Your Freedom Now! Well, almost. First, you get to read this fun little summary from me, and then you’ll be on your way to this week’s latest musings. This week, I am excited to explore another Dominant Dogma narrative that has impacted our freedom and perception of the world: toxic self-reliance. This one may be an interesting one to untangle for some of us, as we find the nuanced line between self-responsibility and self-reliance. What I hope you can find — or begin to traverse — is the beautiful space of both self-sovereignty, and community connection.  Instead of “pulling yourself up by the bootstraps,” I implore you to try asking for help, learning from others, and creating meaningful and reasonable boundaries so you can live your best life. But I know there’s a lot to unpack before we get there! Let’s start with a few minutes of listening and learning this week.  In this episode, I’ll talk about: The freedom we can find in interdependence The relationship between “hustle” cultures and privilege Losing our innate need for connection, and how we can reclaim and reshape what that looks like now Giving ourselves permission to ask for help, seek resources, and be taught in a new way Some journal prompts to help you engage with this topic a bit more Pull Quotes: “When you embrace a mindset of toxic self-reliance, you are falling prey to a narrative you were never meant to fit within.” “Ultimately, the Dominant Dogma of “Pull Yourself Up By Your Bootstraps” strips you of your congruent, nuanced, whole, and natural self.”  “It is your job to accept the supportive connections already surrounding you, attune to them, and communicate your needs.” “It’s OK to be supported. It’s OK to be nourished. It’s OK to be taught. It’s OK to ask for help.” Mentions & More: Enroll in my 6-month creative business accelerator program: “On My Terms” David E. Lewis’s Op-Ed for the Harvard Crimson More about the “by one’s own bootstraps” idiom The Uplifiting Words Podcast: Pull Yourself Up By Your Bootstraps  The Boostraps Podcast, which aims to move past this old narrative  More brilliance from Jodi Clarke about interdependence Lots more information about interdependence and the importance it plays in our relationships

Welcome back! I am so glad to have found my way into your inbox again, and I hope you’re ready for a new episode of Live Your Freedom Now! In episode 7, I will explore another Dominant Dogma that has impacted our path to freedom: feelings of inadequacy.  I am going to help you process the inner monologue that echoes  “they have it better than me,” so that you can direct your focus back to the mission at hand: You are here to live free. It might feel a little uncomfortable, but I hope you find this podcast to be a supportive place to explore and welcome these feelings. In this episode, I’ll explore: Dominant Domgma that manifests as feelings of inadequacy or comparison The impact of capitalism and social media on our creativity and wellbeing Setting energizing boundaries that can help us reclaim our time and freedom How we can build community and self-responsibility to create unique journeys that allow us each to thrive Pull Quotes: “This internalized Dominant Dogma of, “they have it better” is exactly what the system needs to survive in its current form: They need you to feel small, not enough, insecure, and lacking…so you purchase from them.” “When it comes to social media, you are the product, not the consumer.” “Social media, as an advertisement platform, consistently feeds you a singular vision of happiness, belonging, and success. It aims to cultivate FOMO, a feeling of scarcity and lack, thus attracting more of your attention and energy, with the end goal of securing your purchase.” “You can honor your experience. Feel it. Get your emotions out around it. Grieve where you have been navigating difficulty and perhaps even loss. Then, I encourage you to remember: Dominant Dogma wants you to keep feeling this way because others profit off of your feeling broken, small, and like a victim of your world.” “The truth is, their journey is none of your business. Whoever they may be, their experience of “better,” is none of your business. And, when you reduce them to a simple thought of “they have it better” it strips both them and you of nuanced humanity.” Mentions & More: Stephanie Jiroch’s amazing Medium article: “How To Avoid The Bro Marketing Trap” My 6-month creative business accelerator: On My Terms

Hello there, and welcome back! I hope you’re ready to learn more about Dominant Dogma this week, as Episode 6 is all about a dominant belief that life and business is about growth at all costs, scaling and dominating in our personal and professional avenues.  This is a big cultural shift I see these days, as many of us realize that traditional ideas of productivity and success are no longer serving us. I will be diving into this cultural narrative and how it has shaped our modern world, as well as what that Dominant Dogma might sound like as an inner monologue for you. I’ll also leave you with some pretty big questions that I hope can be a launching point for you to think more critically, reflect, and move from a place of intention and wisdom as you begin to Live Your Freedom Now. Let’s explore! In this episode, I’ll be talking about: The Dominant Dogma that growth and advancement reign supreme How these cultural structures and narratives shape the way we approach the world What this Dominant Dogma may sound or feel like for you Kate Raworth’s “Donut Economics” The idea of thriving vs. growth, especially in creative business Pull Quotes: “Within the modern world, and specifically within capitalistic and hierarchical systems, we are taught a message of growth and advancement from a young age.” “We are expected to model ongoing advancement within our workplaces, companies, and finances. This ever-growing, ‘up and to the right’ mentality is what we are conditioned to expect from society, economy, and from ourselves, until we die, burn out, or for the lucky few, retire.” “A healthy business is designed to thrive, not grow.” “This is an invitation to explore beyond the Dominant Dogma of advancement, scaling, and indefinite growth so together we can find a more sustainable and regenerative path forward.” Mentions & More: Doughnut Economics  An amazing approach to business by Kate Raworth More brilliance from Kate Raworth on her website My 6-month creative business accelerator: On My Terms