Electric Ideas With Whitney Baker podcast

36:37

With 70% of adults reporting that they wake up feeling tired, it’s clear we’re in the middle of a sleep epidemic. But what if better sleep was the missing piece to a more energized, fulfilling life? In this episode, Whitney connects with Shannon Kaiser, author of 365 Happy Bedtime Mantras. She reveals how simple mindset shifts and nightly rituals can transform the way we rest. She explains how sleep impacts not just our energy levels, but our mental, emotional, and physical well-being, and why prioritizing rest is one of the most powerful acts of self-care. Shannon talks about how bedtime mantras and intentional self-care can help quiet the mind, reduce stress, and improve sleep quality. She also dives into the power of dreams and using them as a tool for self-discovery. If you’re tired of waking up exhausted and ready to end the cycle of restless nights, then you won’t want to miss this episode! Here’s what you can look forward to in this episode: How Shannon decided to write her book Bedtime Mantras Unexpected ways lack of sleep robs us from being able to feel our best Why we struggle to be able to unwind at night Different practices to get into the right mindset for sleep Why mantras work, especially before bed Ways to work with our dreams and use them as a tool Self-worth and self-love Reflection question to ponder: How can I show up more for myself today with love and grace? Connect with Whitney: Instagram l Website l 5 Days to Less Stress, More Satisfaction l Tend to Your Soul Toolkit l Electric Ideas Podcast Connect with Shannon: Instagram | Website | Book 365 Happy Bedtime Mantras…

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141. Breaking Cycles, Embracing Freedom and Finding Inner Peace with Lori Pappas 45:49

11 days ago45:49

45:49

Do you ever feel stuck in the relentless push to do more, achieve more, and be everything to everyone? In this episode, Whitney connects with Lori Pappas—entrepreneur, humanitarian, and author of The Magic of Yes —to explore her journey through chaos and transformation. Lori reflects on how her insatiable drive for achievement once took a toll on her well-being and how learning to pause, even for just five minutes, helped her reclaim clarity and balance. She opens up about breaking free from deep-seated patterns, including the pressure to do it all alone, the struggle with self-worth, and the impact of childhood trauma. Lori also shares how redefining success, taking risks, and embracing forgiveness led her to unexpected places—including Ethiopia, where she gained a new perspective on life’s purpose. Through candid insights and hard-won wisdom, Lori challenges the belief that asking for help is a weakness and instead reframes it as a source of strength and connection. In this episode, Whitney and Lori reveal how through embracing stillness, trusting intuition, and setting boundaries, women can move beyond fear and create space for what truly matters. Here’s what you can look forward to in this episode: Wisdom for moms trying to balance it all Reframing your mindset to feel comfortable asking for help How Lori was able to let go of her childhood trauma and be in a state of peace Reclaiming agency in your own life What inspired Lori to move to Ethiopia Do other cultures value women’s intuitions more than we do? The importance of saying “no” Reflection question to ponder: What fear is holding you in place? Connect with Whitney: Instagram l Website l 5 Days to Less Stress, More Satisfaction l Tend to Your Soul Toolkit l Electric Ideas Podcast Connect with Lori: Instagram | Website | Book: The Magic of Yes | Wise Women Sisterhood Community…

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140. How Your To-Do List is Sabotaging You (And What to Do Instead!) with Lisa Zawrotny 36:45

18 days ago36:45

36:45

In a world obsessed with hustle culture, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the never-ending to-do lists. In this episode, Whitney connects with Productivity Coach Lisa Zawrotny to explore a more intentional and compassionate approach to getting things done. Lisa shares how decluttering both physical and mental spaces can create ease, clarity and balance in daily life. Rather than focusing on doing more, Lisa introduces a "to-choose" list—an empowering way to prioritize what truly matters. She also breaks down the Four D’s framework—Delete, Delegate, Delay and Do—to help listeners manage tasks with less stress and more intention. If you’re tired of equating productivity with self-worth, this conversation is for you. Lisa shares actionable tips to shift from busyness to meaningful progress, create space for what matters and redefine success in a way that feels both fulfilling and freeing. Here’s what you can look forward to in this episode: How Lisa’s philosophy differs from the more “typical” productivity models we see Decluttering the mental load Setting yourself up for success with your approach to your to-do list The 4 Ds of task management Balancing productivity and self-compassion A life-first approach to time and energy management Reflection question to ponder: How do I feel about what I’m doing? Connect with Whitney: Instagram l Website l 5 Days to Less Stress, More Satisfaction l Tend to Your Soul Toolkit l Electric Ideas Podcast Connect with Lisa: Instagram | Website | Positively Living Podcast…

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139. Tired of the Hustle? The Soft Woman Era Is Calling You. 18:33

25 days ago18:33

18:33

5 Days to Less Stress, More Satisfaction Do you find yourself in the endless cycle of doing–managing the household, balancing work, and caring for others–all while struggling to find the space for yourself? During this mini jolt, Whitney shares her own personal journey of shifting away from the constant hustle toward a life that embraces rest, receiving, and self-compassion. She calls it your Soft Woman Era. Whitney unpacks why so many women feel trapped in this ongoing cycle of proving their worth by always doing, doing, doing, only to end up completely exhausted. She challenges listeners to step away from the constant hustle and choose to live in a way that prioritizes inner peace, self-compassion and connection. Whitney invites listeners to consider what it might look like to slow down, set realistic expectations and prioritize joy in their daily lives. Whether it’s making space for spontaneity, shifting from pressure to pleasure, allowing yourself to receive support or even shaking it off to your favorite song, Whitney shares practical ways to invite more presence and ease into your daily life. Here’s what you can look forward to in this episode: The idea behind the Soft Woman Era Why constant productivity doesn’t lead to satisfaction and slowing down in order to receive more Steps to enter your Soft Woman Era Prioritizing pleasure over pressure Getting out of your head and into your heart Embracing realistic expectations Learning to receive Reflection question to ponder: What’s one small way I can soften just a bit today? Connect with Whitney: Instagram l Website l 5 Days to Less Stress, More Satisfaction l Tend to Your Soul Toolkit l Electric Ideas Podcast…

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138. The Perimenopause Wake-Up Call: What Every Woman Needs to Know ASAP with Felice Gersh 44:31

5 weeks ago44:31

44:31

5 Days to Less Stress, More Satisfaction Is menopause really just a sudden stop or is there more to the story? In this episode, Whitney welcomes Dr. Felice Gersh, an award-winning OB/GYN and integrative medicine specialist, to unpack the science behind perimenopause—the often-overlooked transition that can begin earlier than many women expect. Dr. Gersh breaks down the key hormonal shifts that shape this phase, from fluctuating estrogen and progesterone levels to their impact on mood, metabolism and overall well-being. She also clears up common misconceptions, emphasizing the importance of informed conversations and evidence-based approaches in navigating these changes. Beyond the science, Dr. Gersh shares practical strategies for supporting hormonal balance through lifestyle choices, nutrition and when necessary, medical interventions. Whether you're just starting to notice shifts or are deep in the experience, this episode offers essential insights to help you move forward with clarity and confidence. Here’s what you can look forward to in this episode: Understanding menopause and perimenopause The hormonal journey at different ages Symptoms and misconceptions of perimenopause Maintaining hormonal balance and overall health during menopause and perimenopause Reflection question to ponder: What brings you joy in life? Connect with Whitney: Instagram l Website l Tend to Your Soul Toolkit l Electric Ideas Podcast Connect with Dr. Gersh: Website | Instagram | Book…

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137. How Meditation Gives You More Time in Your Day 12:10

6 weeks ago12:10

12:10

5 Days to Less Stress, More Satisfaction Most people think of meditation as a stress-relief tool—and they’re not wrong. But stopping there sells it short. In this episode, Whitney Baker peels back the layers on two powerful ways meditation has rewired her life—helping her reclaim time and stay present. She shares how meditation makes daily disruptions less derailing, allows her to move through life with more ease, and helps her be fully engaged in the moments that matter. It’s not about sitting in stillness for the sake of it—it’s about creating more space, more presence, and less friction in your day. If you’ve been curious about starting or deepening your meditation practice, Whitney’s new self-guided course, Five Days to Less Stress, More Satisfaction , is designed to make meditation feel doable—offering guided meditations, journaling prompts, and daily activations that fit into even the busiest schedule. Whether you're a seasoned meditator or someone who struggles to sit still for two minutes, this episode will shift the way you think about meditation—and maybe even the way you move through your day. Connect with Whitney: Instagram l Website l Tend to Your Soul Toolkit l Electric Ideas Podcast…

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136. How to Be and Raise Anti-Diet Culture Women with Lori Brand 32:27

6 weeks ago32:27

32:27

Get the Tend to Your Soul Toolkit Diet culture is everywhere. It shapes how we see ourselves and sets unrealistic beauty standards that impact people of all ages and body types. In this episode, Whitney sits down with author, group fitness instructor, and yoga teacher Lori Brand. Lori shares how she first encountered diet culture at just 10 years old and how it shaped her understanding of body image. She also dives into the fitness industry's role in these narratives and the powerful shift toward true empowerment through body positivity. Lori dives into the themes of her book, Bodies to Die For , which explores the controversies of body image. She explains how chasing external validation often leads to dissatisfaction and why she advocates for women to focus on getting stronger rather than getting smaller. Through her own transformation, Lori discovered that prioritizing strength over appearance fosters resilience, confidence, and a deeper sense of self-worth. Beyond personal growth, Lori offers advice for parents on how to raise strong children in a society that is steeped in diet culture. She shares her insights on finding fulfillment and strength through self-accepted goals. Tune in as Lori encourages us to redefine beauty from within, embrace our unique strengths, and support one another in dismantling diet culture. Here’s what you can look forward to in this episode: Lori’s early encounter with diet culture The impact diet culture has had on society What Lori hopes women take away from reading her book How to raise strong daughters in a diet culture society Loving the bodies we’re in right now The relationship between physicality and creativity Reflection question to ponder: Is this really what I want right now? Connect with Whitney: Instagram l Website l Tend to Your Soul Toolkit l Electric Ideas Podcast Connect with Lori: Instagram | Website | Book: Bodies to Die For…

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135. Reignite Your Love for Reading—Before Social Media Steals Your Focus for Good with Mia Levitin 35:31

8 weeks ago35:31

35:31

Grab the Tend to Your Soul Toolkit! Do you long to read more but feel like focus—and time—keep slipping through your fingers? In a world where screens pull us in every direction, the simple joy of getting lost in a book often fades to the background. But what if turning the page could sharpen your mind, soothe your nervous system, and deepen your empathy? In this episode, Whitney connects with Mia Levitin, a cultural and literary critic who explores books for a living. They dive into how screen time is rewiring our brains—and what we can do about it. They explore the rise of audiobooks as a bridge back to reading, the quiet ways books nourish our well-being, and practical shifts to help you reclaim your reading life. If you’ve been wanting to get lost in a good book again, but been struggling to do so, this episode is for you! Here’s what you can look forward to in this episode: Why reading for pleasure has declined over the years Using audiobooks to rekindle your love for reading The impact social media has on our reading habits Creating reading habits in a digital age Cultural and social relevance of books Resources mentioned in this episode: Episode 97 - Do Social Media and AI Bridge the Loneliness Gap or Widen it? with Dr. Jodi Halpern Episode 133 - 5 Essential Soul Care Habits to Deeply Nurture Yourself Connect with Whitney: Instagram l Website l Tend to Your Soul Toolkit l Electric Ideas Podcast Connect with Mia: Instagram | Website…

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134. Talk to Anybody: Strengthen Your Personal Connections with Better Communication Skills with Amanda Kenderes 31:53

9 weeks ago31:53

31:53

Have you ever noticed how some conversations feel like they flow effortlessly, while others leave you grasping for something—anything—to say? Why do we click instantly with some people and struggle to connect with others? In this episode, Whitney connects with Dr. Amanda Kenderes, whose groundbreaking work on "Talk Types" unlocks the mysteries of why we communicate the way we do. Amanda shares her fascinating journey of discovering how our unique talk preferences shape everything from casual chats to life-changing conversations. She breaks down the three core reasons we talk and how they reveal whether you’re an informer, a relator or a meaning-maker. Plus, Amanda shares her favorite strategies for bridging communication gaps and creating deeper, more authentic connections—in both your personal and professional life. If you’re curious about how to transform the way you connect with others, this episode is a must-listen! Here’s what you can look forward to in this episode: How moving around has helped Amanda become an expert in communication Moving past small talk The 3 different talk categories Respecting each communication style Ways to engage with different talk types The importance of in-person communication Connect with Whitney: Instagram l Website l Free 5-Minute Guided Meditation l Electric Ideas Podcast Connect with Amanda: Instagram | Website | Talk Types Book | Linkedin…

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133. 5 Essential Soul Care Habits to Deeply Nurture Yourself 26:58

10 weeks ago26:58

26:58

Claim your free TEND TO YOUR SOUL TOOKIT Feeling squeezed by all the new year, new you noise? Let’s skip the pressure to overhaul your life overnight. In this episode of Electric Ideas, Whitney invites you to lean into practices that feel expansive, not exhausting. This isn’t about setting rigid goals or ticking boxes—it’s about creating space to feel self-connected and satiated in life through simple, soulful habits. Whitney shares five soulful ways to tend to yourself: savoring meditation, diving into personal writing, reconnecting with nature, curating your living space, and sparking meaningful connections. With her free “ Tend to Your Soul Toolkit ,” you’ll have resources to explore these practices at your own pace. Because here’s the thing: when we care for our souls, we ripple that goodness out into every interaction. Let’s make this year about feeling more alive, more you. Ready? Hit play. Here’s what you can look forward to in today’s episode: Acknowledging life’s messiness Tending to your soul Soul care habit 1: Meditation Soul care habit 2: Personal writing Soul care habit 3: Connecting with nature Soul care habit 4: Befriending your living space Soul care habit 5: Creating meaningful connections Reflection question to ponder: What is one soulful practice I gravitate to right now that can help me feel deeply connected to myself? Connect with Whitney: Instagram l Website l Tend to Your Sould Toolkit | Electric Ideas Podcast…

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132. The Connection Between Stress, Hormones, and Weight Gain Explained with Danielle Pashko 30:27

11 weeks ago30:27

30:27

Are you longing to feel physically lighter while staying true to a wellness journey that's about more than just weight loss? In this episode, functional nutritionist and chronic illness coach Danielle Pashko reveals the impact of stress on women’s health and weight gain. During the conversation, Danielle explores how intense workouts and elevated stress levels can negatively affect hormonal balance and women’s ability to release weight. She emphasizes the importance of nourishing habits like a proper diet, sleep, hydration and stress management. Danielle shares how embracing softer, ancient practices like Tai Chi and Qigong can better your overall emotional, mental and physical wellness. Here’s what you can look forward to in today’s episode: The risk of following every wellness trend The importance of self-love and self-respect How stress can impact weight loss Lessons about true health and happiness Embracing softer wellness practices The power of Tai Chi and Kung Fu Reflection question to ponder: Who do you want to be in 2025? Connect with Whitney: Instagram l Website l Free 5-Minute Guided Meditation l Electric Ideas Podcast Connect with Danielle: Instagram | Website…

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131. Step Into Your Dreams: Authentic Living and Transformation with Amber Lilyestrom 37:49

12 weeks ago37:49

37:49

Ready to embrace your dreams and step into the new year with purpose? In this episode, Whitney welcomes Amber Lilyestrom—author of Master Your Money Mind and Paddle Home and host of The IGNITE Your Dream podcast. Amber shares her powerful belief: “If the dream is in you, it’s for you.” She explains why self-awareness is the foundation for turning dreams into reality and offers actionable insights to overcome overwhelm, refocus your energy, and stay grounded in joy and self-care while pursuing your goals. Discover practical strategies for taking small, intentional steps that create momentum and lead to big breakthroughs. Whether you're looking to gain clarity, ignite your confidence, or kickstart your dreams, this episode is packed with inspiration to help you make it happen. This conversation will leave you feeling empowered and inspired to nurture your true desires. Here’s what you can look forward to in today’s episode: How to take steps to reach your goals without feeling overwhelmed Unexpected ways dreams come to us and through us Choosing to use your full power Continuing to find joy when we are cosigning for our dreams Taking baby steps to reach your goals Reflection question to ponder: Where am I in my life? How can I make it feel more joyful, more sacred, and more meaningful? Connect with Whitney: Instagram l Website l Free 5-Minute Guided Meditation l Electric Ideas Podcast Connect with Amber: Instagram | Website | Books | Podcast…

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[REPLAY] Time Management Secrets for More Flow and Less Stress 32:30

13 weeks ago32:30

32:30

In our fast-paced lives, it's easy to feel like we're constantly playing catch-up. Many of us find ourselves overwhelmed and overstretched, struggling to carve out time for the things that truly matter. But here’s the truth: prioritizing ourselves isn’t selfish—it’s essential. When we honor our own needs, we bring more joy and light into every aspect of our lives. So, how do we break free from the cycle of overwhelm and reclaim our time? Today, I’m sharing three powerful strategies to help you prevent burnout, invite more flow into your days, and find more balance in your busy life. It’s not just about managing your time—it’s about living with intention and purpose. Have questions or feedback on this episode? I’d love to hear from you. Message me on Instagram at @whitneywoman . Here’s what to look forward to in today’s episode: The concept of time scarcity Strategy 1: Define your own day Strategy 2: Defend against distractions Strategy 3: Setting boundaries to avoid overwhelm Reflection question to ponder: What are you going to create time for this month? Connect with Whitney: Instagram l Website l Free 5-Minute Guided Meditation l Electric Ideas Podcast…

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Skip the Resolutions: Try This Fun Approach 8:41

14 weeks ago8:41

8:41

The end of the year is a natural time to reflect on personal shifts that could allow us to feel like we’re living more fully. During today’s mini jolt, I share a fun alternative to creating New Year’s resolutions that have sparked joy for me in years past and even enhanced my marriage. I shared this back in 2023 and called it 23 for 2023. However, I have an update for you as we look into 2025. This is my twist on a practice originally created by Gretchen Rubin, a researcher and writer who studies happiness and habits. This list is all about 20 things you’re excited to tackle that you know will give you a happiness boost. The catch is they must be one-offs that you can easily cross off the list, like making homemade meatballs, versus long-term goals or habit changes. Listen in for tips on what to put on your list as well as what I’ve learned from doing this practice for years. I would love to hear what you’re planning for yourself in the first week of 2025. Message me or tag me on IG with your thoughts - @whitneywoman . In this episode, we cover: -What is 23 for 2023? -Some examples of things you can add to your list -My personal twist on this exercise that I absolutely love -A few tips if you’re interested in trying this exercise -You may not get through your entire list, and that's okay Connect with Whitney: IG: @whitneywoman Website: myelectricideas.com…

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[REPLAY] - How to Avoid Burnout During the Holiday Season and Beyond with Zarya Rubin 36:35

15 weeks ago36:35