Unlock Your Blocks with Elyssa

Understanding Procrastination: A New Perspective

Think you’re just lazy or unmotivated when you procrastinate? Think again.
In this episode, Elyssa breaks down one of the most misunderstood habits—procrastination—and reframes it in a way that’s compassionate, empowering, and deeply insightful. What if that moment you “put something off” isn’t about laziness at all, but a survival response rooted in your nervous system?
You’ll learn how to differentiate true procrastination from natural shifts in your priorities, why shame isn’t the answer, and how to reclaim your agency around productivity and decision-making. If you’ve ever beaten yourself up for delaying a task, this episode is your permission slip to pause, reassess, and be kind to yourself.
✅ What You’ll Learn:
Why procrastination is often a nervous system response—not a flaw
How to tell the difference between procrastination and simply reprioritizing
Why rearranging your schedule isn’t failure—it’s flexibility
The role of agency in intentional delays and task management
How shame can sabotage progress—and what to do instead
The power of self-compassion in moving forward with clarity and confidence
🕒 Episode Chapters:00:00 – Understanding Procrastination03:05 – Identifying Procrastination vs. Other Behaviors06:02 – Shifting Priorities and Changing Directions08:50 – The Role of Agency in Delaying Tasks12:06 – Reframing Shame and Self-Sabotage
Get a free call with Elyssa:​​Ladies - book your FREE 15-minute Unlock Your Blocks focus call with Elyssa to get to the root of why you are stuck playing small and help you discover your next steps. You are just 15 minutes from the clarity that will set you free!
Book here: https://elyssasmith.com/focus
📌 Follow Elyssa for More:📸 Instagram📘 Facebook Group – The Stressless Lounge
 

Embracing Authenticity: The Path to Wholeness with Rebecca Lomax

What happens when your identity is tied to your performance—and life forces you to stop performing?
In this powerful episode, Elyssa sits down with Rebecca Lomax, a wealth relationship manager, speaker, and former dance artist whose journey from the stage to the financial world will move and inspire you. After a concussion forced her to rethink everything she knew about herself, Rebecca had to rebuild not only her career, but her sense of self-worth.
Together, they explore the intersection of adversity, authenticity, and empowerment—and what it truly means to rise after a fall. Rebecca shares the messy middle of her transformation, from battling imposter syndrome to trusting that she is worthy just as she is. This is a must-listen for any woman learning to show up fully, even when life doesn’t go according to plan.
✅ What You’ll Learn:
How a life-altering event can become a catalyst for deep transformation
Why self-worth can’t be tied to performance or productivity
How to rebuild confidence when it’s been shaken
The power of small steps when big ones feel impossible
Why women often leave too much on the table—and how to stop
How music, movement, and mindfulness can bring you back to yourself
The importance of rising with authenticity, not perfection
🕒 Episode Chapters:00:00 – Introduction to Rebecca Lomax02:12 – The Journey from Dance to Finance05:03 – Facing Adversity: The Impact of a Concussion10:08 – Overcoming Self-Doubt and Imposter Syndrome14:13 – Taking Risks and Building Confidence21:34 – Embracing Wholeness and Authenticity27:43 – Final Thoughts and Advice for Women28:35 – Motivational Music and Self-Care Practices
Connect with Rebecca:LinkedInInstagramFacebook
📌 Follow Elyssa for More:www.elyssasmith.com/focus📸 Instagram📘 Facebook Group – The Stressless Lounge
 

Rewriting Your Inner Voice: Breaking Free from Negative Self-Talk

You wouldn’t talk to your best friend the way you talk to yourself—so why is your inner voice so cruel?
In this episode, Elyssa shines a compassionate light on one of the most common struggles for high-achieving women: negative self-talk. She unpacks how perfectionism, shame, and self-doubt drive the relentless inner critic and how this can manifest as anxiety, depression, or even paralysis when pursuing your goals.
More importantly, she offers tactical steps to recognize, interrupt, and transform that inner dialogue—so you can move forward with more ease, self-compassion, and clarity. Whether you're stuck in a shame spiral or constantly feeling like you're not enough, this episode will help you begin to rewrite the story in your head.
✅ What You’ll Learn:
Why high-achievers are especially prone to negative self-talk
How perfectionism and shame fuel the inner critic
Why shame doesn't lead to lasting change
Simple ways to recognize and interrupt harmful thought patterns
How calming techniques can help regulate your nervous system
The power of noticing "decision points" in your inner dialogue
Why asking for help is a strength, not a weakness
📌 Follow Elyssa for More:www.elyssasmith.com/focus📸 Instagram📘 Facebook Group – The Stressless Lounge
 

Navigating Parenting with Play, Presence & Compassion with Jill Lerman

Parenting doesn’t come with a manual—but it can come with support. In this heartfelt and insightful episode, Elyssa is joined by play and parenting coach Jill Lerman to talk about emotional regulation, conscious parenting, and how to create a joyful, connected family life. They explore the power of play not just for kids—but for adults, too—and why modeling emotional intelligence is one of the most powerful tools a parent has.
Jill opens up about her own journey into parenting support, and together they dive deep into how shame, survival mode, and generational trauma impact how we show up for our children—and ourselves. With practical tools, a few tears, and a whole lot of compassion, this conversation is a must-listen for any parent who’s ever felt overwhelmed, under-resourced, or unsure of how to break old cycles.
✅ What You’ll Learn:
Why play is a developmental need for everyone (not just kids!)
How to reframe mistakes as growth opportunities
The impact of self-sabotage and negative self-talk in parenting
How to recognize your inner child and shift old patterns
Practical tools for emotional regulation and quick self-care
The importance of modeling calm behavior for your children
How to approach parenting with compassion, curiosity, and consciousness
🕒 Episode Chapters:00:00 – Introduction to Play and Parenting Coaching03:03 – The Importance of Play in Adult Life06:03 – Jill’s Journey to Becoming a Play Expert08:52 – Navigating Parenting Challenges and Self-Sabotage11:55 – The Role of Emotional Regulation in Parenting15:03 – Learning from Mistakes and Building Resilience17:54 – Conscious Parenting and Breaking Generational Cycles25:25 – Reframing Mistakes as Opportunities26:04 – The Impact of Negative Self-Talk27:05 – Emotional Regulation and Mistakes29:04 – Understanding Shame and Mistakes30:04 – Brain States and Child Behavior32:37 – Recognizing Our Inner Child34:05 – Generational Patterns and Trauma35:33 – Tools for Parenting and Self-Care38:01 – Practical Steps for Low Tolerance to Mistakes42:53 – Quick Self-Care Strategies
Connect with Jill
📸 Instagram @jillybeansnyc 
Website www.jillybeansnyc.com
Playful Parenting Membership
Free Guide To Independent Play
📌 Follow Elyssa for More:www.elyssasmith.com/focus📸 Instagram📘 Facebook Group – The Stressless Lounge

Unlocking Your Zone of Genius

Are you operating in your zone of genius—or just stuck in survival mode?
In this episode of Unlock Your Blocks, Elyssa explores the concept of the "zone of genius," as defined by Gay Hendricks, and why aligning your work and life with your unique talents and passions is the key to success, fulfillment, and emotional well-being.
She also dives into self-sabotage, survival mode, and the nervous system’s response to misalignment, offering practical steps to identify your zone of genius and integrate it into daily life. If you’re feeling stuck, uninspired, or overwhelmed, this episode will help you make small but powerful shifts toward a more joyful and productive life.
✅ What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
How operating in your zone of genius leads to greater success
Why self-sabotage happens when you’re out of alignment
How your nervous system craves safety and authenticity
The importance of saying no to misaligned opportunities
Why finding joy in daily activities boosts productivity
How to identify what truly lights you up
How support and accountability can help you stay on track
The connection between past trauma and current limitations
🎧 Chapters & Key Moments:
00:00 – Understanding the Zone of Genius02:49 – The Importance of Operating in Your Zone of Genius05:58 – Overcoming Self-Sabotage and Survival Mode08:48 – Finding and Embracing Your Zone of Genius12:02 – Practical Steps to Align with Your Zone of Genius
 
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📌 Follow Elyssa for More:🌍 www.elyssasmith.com/focus📸 Instagram📘 Facebook Group: The Stress Less Lounge
 

Navigating the High Achiever’s Journey & Overcoming Burnout with Melissa Gamarra

Are you constantly pushing yourself but still feeling drained?
In this episode of Unlock Your Blocks, Elyssa and Melissa dive into the unique challenges high achievers—especially women—face in managing time, energy, and mental health. They discuss the overwhelming nature of endless to-do lists, the dangers of all-or-nothing thinking, and the reality of burnout in entrepreneurship.
Melissa shares her personal experiences of building and rebuilding her business, highlighting the importance of boundaries, self-awareness, and overcoming internal struggles. The conversation wraps up with practical steps to combat burnout and integrate self-care into a busy life. If you’re a high achiever struggling to balance ambition with well-being, this episode is for you!
✅ What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Why high achievers often struggle with recognizing their limits
How the pressure of endless tasks can lead to burnout
The all-or-nothing mentality and how it hinders progress
Why burnout stems from a lack of boundaries
How to rebuild after burnout through self-reflection
The importance of setting clear boundaries for mental health
Recognizing self-sabotage patterns and how to shift them
Practical routines to manage overwhelm
🎧 Chapters & Key Moments:
00:00 – The Can-Do Mentality of High Achievers02:47 – The Overwhelm of Endless To-Do Lists06:00 – The All-or-Nothing Dilemma09:02 – The Journey of Entrepreneurship11:59 – Burnout and the Need for Boundaries14:58 – Rebuilding After Burnout18:09 – Finding Balance and Setting Boundaries20:51 – The Importance of Self-Reflection24:00 – Overcoming Self-Sabotage26:48 – Practical Steps to Combat Burnout30:12 – The Power of Routines and Boundaries33:01 – Final Thoughts and Self-Care Tips
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If this conversation resonated with you, send it to a friend who needs to hear it! And don’t forget to leave a review—it helps us keep bringing you empowering discussions.
📌 Connect with Melissa:🌍 www.melissagamarramanagement.com
📌 Follow Elyssa for More:🌍 www.elyssasmith.com/focus📸 Instagram📘 Facebook Group: The Stress Less Lounge
 

Reclaiming Your Time & Breaking Free from Busyness

Are you constantly busy but never feel like you're getting ahead?
In this episode of Unlock Your Blocks, Elyssa dives into the overwhelming busyness that so many women experience and shares practical strategies to help you reclaim your time and streamline your life. She unpacks the societal pressures that keep women stuck in survival mode, the impact of technology and emotional triggers, and the consequences of living in a constant state of stress.
Most importantly, Elyssa offers actionable steps to assess how you spend your time, prioritize effectively, delegate responsibilities, and embrace a life of greater ease. If you’ve ever felt like you’re running on a treadmill with no way off, this episode is for you!
✅ What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Why women often feel overwhelmed by societal expectations
How the constant drive to achieve can lead to burnout
The stigma around asking for help and how to reframe it
How technology contributes to constant busyness
The role of emotional triggers in draining your energy
Why living in survival mode leads to chronic stress and isolation
The importance of assessing time usage to create change
How prioritizing tasks and delegating responsibilities can reduce stress
Why it's essential to rewire your mindset for ease and balance
🎧 Chapters & Key Moments:
00:00 – Introduction to Overcoming Busyness03:06 – Understanding the Roots of Busyness06:00 – The Impact of Technology on Our Lives09:12 – Emotional Triggers and Their Effects11:53 – The Consequences of Survival Mode15:09 – Practical Strategies for Streamlining Life18:00 – Final Thoughts and Encouragement
Resources & Links:🌍 Take the Self-Sabotage Quiz: elyssasmith.com/quiz
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If this conversation resonated with you, send it to a friend who needs to hear it! And don’t forget to leave a review—it helps us keep bringing you empowering discussions.
📌 Follow Elyssa for More:🌍 www.elyssasmith.com/focus📸 Instagram📘 Facebook Group: The Stress Less Lounge

Building Self-Trust & Overcoming Fear with Priya Patel

What if fear wasn’t something to fight, but something to befriend?
In this episode of Unlock Your Blocks, Elyssa sits down with Priya Patel, a coach and podcast host, to discuss the journey of self-trust, overcoming fear, and stepping into confidence. Priya opens up about her struggles with self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and the fear of being 'othered', sharing how she has learned to navigate these obstacles with self-awareness and intentional growth.
Priya also reflects on the lifestyle shifts that have helped her prioritize solitude, joy, and self-nurturing, as well as the inspiration behind her podcast, I Wish I Knew That Earlier. If you’ve ever held back on your dreams because of fear or self-doubt, this episode is a must-listen!
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Why self-awareness is the key to recognizing and addressing fears
Why befriending fear leads to more sustainable growth
The power of gentle curiosity in overcoming internal blocks
How connecting to a bigger vision can push you past self-doubt
The importance of taking action, even when afraid
How joy, solitude, and self-nurturing play a crucial role in confidence-building
🎧 Chapters & Key Moments:
00:00 – Introduction to Priya Patel and Her Journey02:57 – The Coaching Era: Helping Others with Big Ideas05:58 – Facing Challenges: Overcoming Self-Doubt and Imposter Syndrome08:57 – The Role of Self-Awareness in Personal Growth11:50 – Understanding the Fear of Being Othered15:11 – Befriending Fear: Strategies for Moving Forward18:10 – Embracing Opportunities: Taking Action Despite Fear21:27 – Building Self-Trust and Overcoming Fear24:34 – Nurturing Self-Awareness and Lifestyle Changes27:28 – The Birth of a Podcast: I Wish I Knew That Earlier32:51 – Advice for Overcoming Blocks and Embracing Patience
📌 Resources & Links:
🎙️ Check out Priya’s podcast I Wish I Knew That Earlier
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If this conversation inspired you, send it to a friend who needs to hear it! And don’t forget to leave a review—it helps us continue bringing empowering discussions to you.
📌 Follow Elyssa for More:🌍 www.elyssasmith.com/focus📸 Instagram📘 Facebook Group: The Stress Less Lounge

Unlocking Your Potential & Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

Ever felt like you don’t truly deserve your success? That one day, someone will find out you’re not as capable as they think? You’re not alone—this is imposter syndrome, and it holds far too many people back from stepping into their full potential.
In this episode of Unlock Your Blocks, Elyssa takes a deep dive into the origins, impact, and hidden effects of imposter syndrome. She uncovers how childhood experiences, societal expectations, and cultural messages can make us doubt ourselves, even when we’re more than qualified.
Elyssa also shares practical strategies to help you shift your mindset, embrace your worth, and stop letting self-doubt control your decisions. If you’ve ever struggled to own your success, dream big, or feel truly deserving, this episode is for you!
✅ What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
What imposter syndrome is and why so many people experience it
How childhood experiences and social conditioning shape self-doubt
Why women are often taught to downplay their confidence and success
How imposter syndrome acts as a protective mechanism against rejection
The Dunning-Kruger effect and why doubting yourself doesn’t mean you’re an imposter
Practical strategies to recognize your worth and combat imposter syndrome
Why dreaming big is crucial for personal growth and fulfillment
How to remind yourself that you are enough, just as you are
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If this episode resonated with you, send it to a friend who needs to hear it! And don’t forget to leave a review—it helps us bring more empowering conversations your way.
📌 Follow Elyssa for More:🌍 www.elyssasmith.com/focus📸 Instagram📘 Facebook Group: The Stress Less Lounge

The Power of Career Breaks & Overcoming Perfectionism with Katrina McGhee

Have you ever felt stuck in your career, burnt out, or unsure of your next step? In this episode of Unlock Your Blocks, Elyssa sits down with Katrina McGhee, career break coach and author, to explore how taking time away from work can lead to clarity, transformation, and renewed purpose.
Katrina shares her personal journey of leaving her corporate job for a 20-month career break, how it reshaped her life, and the lessons she now passes on to clients. She opens up about battling perfectionism, self-doubt, and imposter syndrome, offering powerful insights on how to reframe failure and use it as fuel for growth.
If you've ever wondered whether stepping away from work is possible—or even necessary—this episode will challenge your mindset and inspire you to take control of your career and well-being.
✅ What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Why perfectionism and self-doubt hold us back from making bold moves
How career breaks can lead to unexpected personal and professional growth
The importance of listening to your body when making life decisions
Why waiting for the “right time” to take a break is a myth
Why celebrating small wins is crucial for motivation and progress
The challenges of entrepreneurship and how to navigate them with grace
Simple self-care practices that help manage stress and avoid burnout
📌 Resources & Links:
📖 Grab Katrina’s 45 Things eBook: http://www.kmcgheecoaching.com/45things 📲 Join BreakSpace: http://www.gobreakspace.com/ 
💬 Loved this episode? Share it!
If this episode resonated with you, send it to a friend who needs to hear it! And don’t forget to leave a review—it helps us bring more empowering conversations your way.
📌 Follow Elyssa for More:🌍 www.elyssasmith.com/focus📸 Instagram📘 Facebook Group: The Stress Less Lounge