The Luella Jonk Show podcast

30:55

A secret field that summons lightning. A massive spiral that disappears into a salt lake. A celestial observatory carved into a volcano. Meet the wild—and sometimes explosive—world of land art, where artists craft masterpieces with dynamite and bulldozers. In our Season 2 premiere, guest Dylan Thuras, cofounder of Atlas Obscura, takes us off road and into the minds of the artists who literally reshaped parts of the Southwest. These works aren’t meant to be easy to reach—or to explain—but they just might change how you see the world. Land art you’ll visit in this episode: - Double Negative and City by Michael Heizer (Garden Valley, Nevada) - Spiral Jetty by Robert Smithson (Great Salt Lake, Utah) - Sun Tunnels by Nancy Holt (Great Basin Desert, Utah) - Lightning Field by Walter De Maria (Catron County, New Mexico) - Roden Crater by James Turrell (Painted Desert, Arizona) Via Podcast is a production of AAA Mountain West Group.…

The Luella Jonk Show

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From the therapy room of a registered psychotherapist, dating coach and solopreneur who has tirelessly attempted a 'healthy' work-life balance for 25 years, it rarely existed for me and likely does not for most business owners, entrepreneurs and executives. The truth is relationships can really suffer. I will be interviewing expert guests who are doing things right so we can all learn to mix business with pleasure. Topics will range from building better relationships, connection, dating, and how to spread more kindness and compassion towards others while doing so. Listeners, you have the right to have passion surrounding your work while maintaining passionate relationships. You can have your cake and eat it too. New episodes premiere every Tuesday.

179 episodes

The Luella Jonk Show

updated 4 days ago

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179 episodes

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The Luella Jonk Show

1
Episode #48: Erin & Dusty Stanczyk on Transforming Health with Food as Medicine 1:02:23

4 days ago1:02:23

1:02:23

In this episode, Erin and Dusty Stanzik share their transformative journey toward holistic health and wellness. From battling emotional and physical challenges in their 20s to discovering the healing power of food, movement, and faith, Erin and Dusty reveal how their approach to wellness has radically shifted. Erin and Dusty are certified health & lifestyle coaches, online content creators, authors, international retreat hosts, and founders of EatMoveRest.com. In her 20s, Erin found herself in a severe state of dis-ease, both physically and mentally. With no answers from doctors, she took matters into her own hands. Alongside Dusty, they embraced food as medicine and adopted a whole-food plant-based diet. The two finally found healing, abundant energy, and a newfound love for life. Together, with their three children, they educate, encourage, and empower others to eat, move, and rest their best. I'll walk you through: ✅ How Erin and Dusty navigated emotional struggles and physical symptoms in their 20s ✅ Why the journey to health started with food as medicine ✅ The importance of food freedom and its role in mental clarity and body positivity ✅ Why adopting a plant-based diet wasn’t just a trend but a lifestyle change ✅ How their personal struggles led to a deeper partnership in both marriage and health ✅ Balancing family life, homeschooling, and running a business as a family of five Whether you're struggling with health issues, seeking more balance in life, or trying to find harmony in your marriage, this episode offers real-life insight from a couple who has transformed their lives from the inside out. It’s not about perfection—it’s about embracing the process of becoming your healthiest self together. 🔔 Remember: Health isn't just about food—it's about balance, partnership, and transformation, inside and out. ========================================================= Relevant Links for Erin and Dusty: YouTube: https://www.YouTube.com/EatMoveRest Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ErinStanczyk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dbstanczyk Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EatMoveRest TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@eatmoverest?_t=ZT-8uTR3Hl9WWc&_r=1…

The Luella Jonk Show

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Episode #47: Carrie Gress on Restoring Womanhood Through Faith and Tradition 50:04

11 days ago50:04

50:04

In this episode, I'm joined by Carrie Gress—philosopher, scholar, editor of Theology of Home , and mother of five—for a deeply thoughtful conversation on what it truly means to reclaim womanhood in today's world. Together, we explore why so many women find themselves feeling unfulfilled despite promises of empowerment through modern feminism—and how restoring the true essence of femininity might be the key to deeper peace, purpose, and connection. Carrie shares her unique journey from a liberal upbringing to becoming a strong advocate for faith, tradition, and intentional living. We’ll walk you through: ✅ Why balancing personal aspirations with family bonds creates true empowerment—not division ✅ How the home can be reimagined as a sanctuary of peace and justice rather than a battleground for societal expectations ✅ The surprising ways historical movements have manipulated women’s emotions—and how awareness brings freedom ✅ Why practices like honoring a Sabbath rest are more essential today than ever for mental clarity and family restoration ✅ How to navigate marriage with mutual support, open communication, and a new understanding of healthy roles within relationships Whether you're feeling caught between career ambitions and family life, questioning what feminine strength really looks like, or simply yearning for more harmony amidst the chaos, this conversation offers a refreshing, compassionate lens through which to view modern womanhood. 🔔 Remember: True strength lies not in conforming to outside pressures—but in living with intentionality, gratitude, and grace. Your gifts are needed, both in your work and your relationships. 🔔 Carrie’s insights offer a call to return to what matters most—and to redefine success on your own terms. Don’t miss this enriching dialogue that invites you to live from a place of true empowerment and purpose. ========================================================= Relevant Links for Carrie: Website: https://www.carriegress.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carrie.gress/…

The Luella Jonk Show

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Episode #46: Luanne Rae on Leadership as a Parenting Essential 47:36

18 days ago47:36

47:36

In this episode, I'm joined by Luanne Rae, a registered psychiatric nurse, therapist, and behavioral consultant for children with a thriving private practice. We dive into why today's parents are overwhelmed with conflicting advice and how finding the balance between "jellyfish" and "brick wall" parenting is crucial for raising confident children. Luanne shares her expertise on why children are desperately seeking leadership from their parents in today's confusing world. We'll walk you through: ✅ Why "backbone parenting" provides the structure children need while avoiding authoritarian approaches ✅ How overlooking basics like sleep and screen time can lead to misdiagnosed behavioral issues ✅ The importance of assigning age-appropriate chores to build a child's sense of value and purpose ✅ Why presenting a united parenting front is essential for a child's security ✅ How the modern parenting "village" has disappeared and what we can do about it Whether you're confused by contradictory parenting advice on social media, wondering if your child's behavior indicates ADHD, or simply trying to find your confidence as a parent, this episode offers practical wisdom that cuts through the noise. 🔔 Remember: This isn't about perfect parenting—it's about giving yourself grace while maintaining enough structure that your children feel secure in your leadership. 🔔 Luanne is also launching her upcoming " Practical Positive Parenting " course on May 16th for parents seeking to reconnect with their parenting instincts. ========================================================= Relevant Links for Luanne: Websites: https://www.lighthousewellnesscentre.com/about-us/luanne-rae https://luanne-rae.mykajabi.com/sign-up-parenting-email-1 IG (and details for the upcoming course) : https://www.instagram.com/mother_on_the_lus/…

The Luella Jonk Show

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Episode #45: Erica Komisar on Modern Parenting as a Crisis of Presence 1:10:12

25 days ago1:10:12

1:10:12

In this episode, I'm joined by Erica Komisar, a psychoanalyst and parent guidance expert with over 30 years of experience, to discuss the critical importance of attachment in early childhood development. We explore why a parent's physical and emotional presence during the first three years is fundamental to a child's future mental health and resilience. Erica shares compelling neuroscience research showing how 85% of a child's right brain—responsible for emotional regulation and coping with adversity—is formed in these crucial early years. We'll walk you through: ✅ Why the primary attachment figure (usually the mother) is irreplaceable in establishing a child's sense of security ✅ How modern society's pressure on women to "do it all" is creating a mental health crisis in our children ✅ Why daycare and technology can't substitute for a parent's consistent emotional presence ✅ The problem with prioritizing career achievement over the sacred work of parenting ✅ How building community support can transform the isolation many mothers feel Whether you're struggling with guilt about returning to work, feeling pressured by society's expectations, or simply trying to understand what your child truly needs from you, this episode offers research-backed insights that might challenge conventional wisdom but could transform your approach to parenting. 🔔 Remember: This isn't about shaming parents who must work, but about recognizing the biological reality of attachment and finding creative solutions that prioritize our children's emotional wellbeing. Sometimes the most important career decision you'll make isn't which job to take—it's how present you can be during those crucial first three years.…

The Luella Jonk Show

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Episode #44: A Marriage Is Not About ‘I’—But ‘We’ 55:06

5 weeks ago55:06

55:06

What if your marriage isn’t broken… it’s just out of sync with design? In today’s episode, I share a heartfelt message about the trap of hyper-independence and how it can quietly erode connection in a relationship. Drawing from personal experience and client stories, I invite you to shift from “I” thinking to the sacred strength of “We.” You’ll hear: ✅ Why sameness isn’t the goal—and how God-ordained difference creates true intimacy ✅ How independence can subtly crowd out partnership in marriage ✅ The cost of keeping score—and what happens when we stop ✅ What it means to give from your strengths instead of your exhaustion ✅ How to return to spiritual synergy in your relationship If your relationship feels more like a business partnership than a sacred bond, this episode is for you. You’re not alone—and you’re not failing. You're being invited to rediscover the beauty of complementarity and the quiet power of choosing each other again. ✨ Because lasting love isn’t found in perfection—it’s found in offering your strength, your softness, and your willingness to grow, together.…

The Luella Jonk Show

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Episode #43: Why Less Analysis Leads to More Clarity 34:16

6 weeks ago34:16

34:16

In this episode, we're tackling the trap of overanalyzing your emotions and why too much self-reflection can actually hold you back. While understanding your feelings is valuable, constantly dissecting them can keep you stuck in a cycle of doubt and hesitation instead of moving forward. I’ll cover: ✅ Why endless self-analysis can make problems feel bigger than they are ✅ The difference between healthy reflection and emotional overprocessing ✅ How overthinking can drain your confidence and decision-making ability ✅ Practical ways to shift from excessive introspection to productive action ✅ Why focusing outward—on purpose and relationships—creates real growth If you've ever felt paralyzed by your own thoughts, unsure whether you're making the "right" emotional choice, this episode will give you a fresh perspective. True self-awareness isn’t about analyzing every feeling—it’s about knowing when to let go and trust yourself. 🔗 Resource Mentioned: The Gottman Rapoport Intervention – a structured exercise designed to improve communication, strengthen emotional bonds, and help couples navigate challenges with deeper understanding. 🔔 And remember, clarity comes from action, not just reflection. The key is learning when to think, when to feel, and when to simply move forward.…

The Luella Jonk Show

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Episode #42: Lately, I've Been Thinking... 42:01

7 weeks ago42:01

42:01

In this episode, I explore the role of sacrifice in relationships, why work-life balance is harder than ever, and how our biological differences as men and women shape the way we navigate life. I also share a personal journey of rediscovering faith and how it has brought me more joy and fulfillment—not less—by shifting my perspective on sacrifice. In this episode, I explore: ✅ Why women often prioritize children over their spouse—and how that impacts marriage ✅ The reality of burnout, adrenal fatigue, and why women need more grace ✅ The difference between equality and sameness in relationships ✅ Why men and women approach stress, work, and validation differently And yes, there's a new podcast name! Tune in as I unpack why I made the change, what it means for future episodes, and why embracing the messiness of growth is part of the journey.…

The Luella Jonk Show

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Episode #41: The Self-Help Trap 44:56

8 weeks ago44:56

44:56

In this episode, I’m unpacking why chasing after emotional validation can sometimes do more harm than good. While feeling understood is important, constantly seeking reassurance can keep you in a cycle of dependence rather than growth. I'll walk you through: ✅ Why relying too much on validation can weaken your sense of self ✅ The difference between healthy support and emotional crutches ✅ How to build confidence without needing constant affirmation ✅ Why internal stability matters more than external approval ✅ Practical steps to shift from seeking validation to self-trust Whether you're struggling with relationship insecurities, feeling unheard, or just relying too much on others to feel okay, this episode offers a perspective shift that could make all the difference. True confidence doesn’t come from getting endless reassurance—it comes from knowing you don’t always need it. 🔔 And as always, while independence is key, meaningful connections and the right support system can help you grow in ways you can't always do alone.…

The Luella Jonk Show

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Episode #40: Feelings Matter, Overthinking Doesn’t 40:15

9 weeks ago40:15

40:15

In this episode, I'm challenging our culture's obsession with emotional analysis that might actually be keeping you stuck. While understanding our feelings is important, I explain why constantly dwelling on emotions can transform what should be a passing breeze into a destructive storm. I'll walk you through: ✅ Why therapy and self-help books are valuable—but not always the complete answer ✅ How to recognize when you're trapped in an "endless loop of self-examination" ✅ The importance of managing emotions rather than just feeling them ✅ Why thinking less about yourself and more about others can be transformative ✅ Practical ways to get off the "hamster wheel" of anxiety and overthinking Whether you're struggling with relationship conflicts, perpetual problems with your partner, or just finding yourself stuck in your own head, this episode offers a perspective that might be exactly what you need to move forward. Sometimes the path to happiness isn't through more analysis—it's through action and shifting your focus. 🔔 Remember: While I encourage you to "get over yourself" in the kindest way possible, consistent therapy can be life-changing when you're truly stuck. Build that relationship with your therapist, be communicative about your needs, and create the consistency that leads to real change.…

The Luella Jonk Show

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Episode #39: What Sex Really Means in Marriage 39:26

10 weeks ago39:26

39:26

In this episode, we're diving deep into a perspective on marital intimacy that's often misunderstood or completely overlooked in our modern culture—sex as a sacred, spiritual connection between husband and wife. I'm challenging the transactional view of intimacy that has created so much tension and obligation in marriages today. What if the struggles around frequency, desire, and obligation aren't just problems—but invitations? Invitations to discover a more beautiful understanding of what sex was truly designed to be in marriage: the physical expression of your covenant bond. I'll walk you through: ✅ Why viewing sex as an obligation or "need" destroys the beauty of intimacy ✅ The biblical understanding of "two becoming one flesh" and what that really means ✅ How cultural misconceptions about sex have damaged our marriages without us realizing ✅ Why respect, not desire, is the true foundation of a healthy sexual relationship ✅ The practical ways to move from transactional thinking to seeing sex as an act of recommitment Your marriage isn't supposed to be a battlefield of competing needs—it's meant to be the sacred space where two equal partners continually choose to become one. Tune in for a conversation that might completely transform how you view intimacy with your spouse. 🔗 Get my March relationship planner focused on this topic: https://luellajonk.com/the-game-plan/#The_Planner 📚 Recommended Reading: "Be Devoted: Restoring Friendship, Passion, and Communion in Your Marriage" by Bob Schuchts McNally Robinson Indigo Amazon "Good News about Sex & Marriage" McNally Robinson Indigo Amazon 🔔 Disclaimer: This podcast provides relationship insights from a faith-oriented perspective but is not a substitute for professional counseling. Always seek guidance from a licensed therapist for personalized support.…

The Luella Jonk Show

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Episode #38: The 7 Deadly Sins That Are Hurting Your Marriage (And How to Fix Them) 47:49

10 weeks ago47:49

47:49

In this episode, we’re diving deep into a framework that has stood the test of time—the 7 deadly sins—and how they show up in our marriages in ways we don’t even realize. We often think of marriage as a place of love and companionship, but the truth is, it’s also one of life’s greatest teachers of virtue. What if the arguments, resentment, and emotional distance in your relationship aren’t just problems—but opportunities? Opportunities to practice patience, humility, and kindness instead of pride, anger, and envy. I’ll walk you through: ✅ Why pride makes you fight to "win"—and why that’s ruining your relationship ✅ The hidden ways envy and greed can creep into your marriage (without you noticing) ✅ How anger starts as a flicker but can burn everything down if unchecked ✅ Why lust and emotional comparison are more dangerous than you think ✅ The simple mindset shifts that replace vice with virtue—and create a marriage that actually lasts Your marriage isn’t supposed to be perfect—but it is supposed to refine you. Tune in for a conversation that just might change the way you love, communicate, and show up for your partner. 🔗 https://luellajonk.com/ 🔔 Disclaimer: This podcast provides general relationship insights and is not a substitute for professional counseling. Always seek guidance from a licensed therapist for personalized support.…

The Luella Jonk Show

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Episode #37: Andrea Wanerstrand on Burnout—It Doesn’t Just Happen, Here’s How to Stop It Before It Starts 51:10

12 weeks ago51:10

51:10

In this episode, I sit down with Andrea Wanerstrand, a leadership coach and former corporate executive, to uncover the hidden costs of burnout and how to take control of your energy before it’s too late. After experiencing burnout three times during her 25 years in corporate America, Andrea shares the hard-earned lessons that helped her not only recover but thrive. We discuss why high achievers are particularly vulnerable to stress, the subtle warning signs most people miss, and how small, consistent changes can create a lasting impact on your mental and physical health. Andrea dives into the importance of emotional awareness and how understanding your body’s signals can help you avoid a total breakdown. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, stuck in survival mode, or unsure how to set boundaries, this conversation is your wake-up call. Tune in as we explore: ✅ The three brains that influence your stress and decision-making ✅ How to spot burnout before it spirals out of control ✅ The key to setting boundaries without guilt ✅ Why slowing down is essential to speeding up productivity ✅ Simple ways to protect your mental health in high-pressure environments This episode is a must-listen for anyone juggling professional and personal demands, looking to stay grounded and resilient in a fast-paced world. Relevant Links: Website: https://a3culturelab.com LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/andreawanerstrand https://luellajonk.com/ Disclaimer: This podcast provides general health information and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized guidance. The views expressed here are not a replacement for expert medical opinions.…

The Luella Jonk Show

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Episode #36: How Debbie Travis Taking Risks and Bold Leaps Led to a Life She Loves 1:25:15

13 weeks ago1:25:15

1:25:15

In this episode, I sit down with Debbie Travis—TV personality, entrepreneur, and best-selling author—to talk about reinvention, risk-taking, and knowing when to say basta (enough). At 16, Debbie left home with no clear plan. She started painting houses, turned that into a thriving business, and eventually became a household name in lifestyle television. She built a media empire, published multiple books, and then, at the height of her success, walked away to start a new chapter in Italy. We dive deep into the courage it takes to pivot in life, the fear of starting over, and the stories of women who come to her retreats searching for change. Whether you’re feeling stuck, craving something new, or just love an inspiring story—this episode is for you. Tune in as we break down: ✅ The moment Debbie knew she had to walk away from her career ✅ Why so many women struggle with reinvention—and how to move forward ✅ How she turned a simple idea into a global brand ✅ The power of curiosity, community, and saying yes to the unknown ✅ Why waiting for the “perfect time” is the biggest lie we tell ourselves This conversation is a reminder that no matter where you are in life, you can always take a leap—and sometimes, that leap leads to a life beyond your wildest dreams. Debbie’s New Book – Laugh More: Stories from an Unexpected Life Get your copy here: McNally Robinson Amazon.com Relevant Links: Website: https://debbietravis.com YouTube Channel Disclaimer: This podcast provides general health and lifestyle information and should not be considered a substitute for professional advice. Always consult with a qualified expert for personalized guidance. The views expressed here are personal opinions and not a replacement for professional consultation.…

The Luella Jonk Show

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Episode #35: Julie on The Relationship Argument You’ll Never Win—And Why That’s Okay 52:06

14 weeks ago52:06

52:06

Ever feel like you and your partner argue about the same thing over and over again? You’re not alone. 69% of relationship conflicts never actually get solved—but that doesn’t mean your relationship is broken. In this episode, I sit down with Julie Sharon-Wagschal, a Dutch-American psychologist and certified Gottman therapist, to talk about why couples keep getting stuck in the same fights and what they can do about it. We dive into the Dreams Within Conflict exercise, a powerful tool that helps partners see what’s really behind those ongoing arguments—because most of the time, it’s not just about the dishes or how you spend the holidays. We talk about: 💡 Why some conflicts feel impossible to solve 💡 The real reason your partner won’t let certain things go 💡 How to stop these fights from damaging your relationship 💡 What to do instead of trying to “win” an argument If you’ve ever walked away from a fight thinking, “We’ll never agree on this,” this episode is for you. Let’s talk about how to move forward, not just go in circles. Relevant Links: https://www.centerforrelationshiplearning.com https://www.gottman.com/ Gottman Books Amazon Canada Disclaimer: This podcast provides general relationship insights and should not replace professional advice. Always consult a licensed professional for personalized guidance.…

The Luella Jonk Show

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Episode #34: Commitment and Trust: The Cornerstone of Fulfilling Relationships 54:15

15 weeks ago54:15