Life Talks with Lauren

Ep. 172: What Happened When I Sat Down with No Notes

This episode started with just a single phrase. No script, no outline, and no plan. I hit record and let the words flow (and sometimes not). What followed was a deeply honest reflection on strength, leadership, vulnerability, and what it really means to show up with intention and heart.

Together, we’ll explore how quiet qualities like empathy, emotional intelligence, and calm confidence can be powerful forces for change. Not just in how we lead others, but in how we show up in the world.

If you've ever felt like you had to be loud or forceful to make an impact, this episode might give you something new to think about.

In this episode, I talk about:

• Letting go of the idea that power has to be loud

• How vulnerability and honesty can strengthen your voice

• The kind of leadership that feels most aligned with who I am

• A reminder that your presence doesn’t need to be performative to be powerful

Ep. 171: How to Want More Without Hating Where You Are

Can you love your body and still want to lose weight? Can you accept where you are in life and still strive for something more? These are the questions we’re unpacking in this week’s episode of Life Talks with Lauren.

For years, I believed that being hard on myself was the only way to grow. I thought acceptance meant giving up. But what I’ve learned is that kindness and consistency go hand in hand—and that growth rooted in compassion is not only possible, but sustainable.

In this episode, I’m sharing my personal experience with body acceptance, why shame-based motivation backfires, and how to replace the inner critic with an inner coach. We’ll also bust a few common myths about self-love, talk through the difference between wanting more and being ungrateful, and explore mindset shifts that support long-term growth—without the burnout.

Whether you're working toward a body goal, career milestone, or simply trying to be a little better each day, this conversation will help you do it from a gentler, more grounded place.

What We Cover:

• Why self-acceptance is the foundation for lasting change

• How shame sabotages your goals

• A personal story on body image and growth

• Practical mindset shifts to help you stay motivated without being hard on yourself

• The truth about wanting more while still being grateful

Reflection Question:
Where in your life could you be a little more gentle with yourself while still honoring your desire to grow?

Ep. 170: This or That Got Personal… Oops

In today’s episode, we’re keeping it light, fun, and just a little reflective as I go through a round of “This or That” questions — but with a twist. From pancakes vs. waffles to questions about growth, love, and legacy, I’m sharing my honest picks, stories behind them, and maybe a few unexpected hot takes.

If you’re in the mood to get to know me better in a laid-back way (or just want to play along in your head), this one’s for you.

✨ In this episode:

• The everyday things that bring me joy

• Why I’ll always choose love over money

• Thoughts on adventure, stability, and self-growth

• What I’d pick: true love or winning the lottery

• Deep life choices… disguised as a fun game

Let’s make it a two-way convo — DM me your answers or tag me on socials @laurenmkepler if you play along!
🎧 Rate & review the show if you enjoy it, and don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.

Ep. 169: Reclaiming Confidence, Redefining Worth

In this week's episode, I’m opening up about my personal journey of regaining confidence in myself and my body. I share how I’ve come to realize—deep in my soul—that my appearance and body size do not determine my worth, my ability to be loved, or the quality of friendships I deserve.

This episode is part of a larger shift I’m on—a confidence journey that’s not only transforming the way I move through the world, but also laying the foundation for the book I’m writing about women’s self-worth and confidence.

I also talk about how I’m becoming more intentional and selective with the people I allow into my life—surrounding myself with those who are equally committed to inclusivity, empowerment, and mutual support. Because confidence isn’t just about how we see ourselves—it’s about how we allow others to treat us, and how we show up for one another.

Together, we’ll explore:

• Letting go of the belief that thinness or aesthetics equals value

• Why we must challenge the idea that one body type is superior

• How to build friendships that are rooted in empowerment, not competition

• The importance of accountability in our circles when it comes to inclusivity

If you’re on your own confidence journey—or ready to start one—this episode is for you. Let’s glow up from the inside out, together.

Let’s connect: 📸 Instagram @laurenmkepler
✨ Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a friend who needs to hear it.

Ep. 168: Banana Fires, Mental Health Wins, and Why Empathy Isn’t Weak

In this episode of Life Talks with Lauren, we’re talking about everything from flaming bananas to personal breakthroughs. Yes, you read that right—my boyfriend lit a banana on fire, set off the fire alarm, and the fire department actually showed up. It’s funny now... but it definitely wasn’t at the time.

I’m also opening up about my mental health journey lately—how things have been improving, what’s been helping, and why a simple girls' day out turned out to be exactly the healing energy I needed. Sometimes laughter, connection, and a little martini therapy are just what the soul ordered.

And because we don’t shy away from real talk here, I’m also sharing my take on Elon Musk’s recent comment that empathy is a weakness. (Spoiler: I couldn’t disagree more.) Let’s talk about why empathy is actually a superpower—and how it can change how we lead, connect, and show up in the world.

Grab your tea (or your fire extinguisher 😅) and let’s dive in.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
🔥 The hilarious (and slightly terrifying) story of the flaming banana incident
🧠 An honest update on my mental health and what’s been working
👯‍♀️ The healing magic of quality time with your girls
💭 My thoughts on Elon Musk’s “empathy is a weakness” take—and why I see it so differently
💖 A reminder that softness is strength, and connection is power

Let’s Connect:
Instagram: @laurenmkepler

Ep. 167: I Am Not Okay--But I Will Be

Episode Description:
In this deeply personal episode of Life Talks with Lauren, I open up about the mental health challenges I’ve been navigating over the past month. From feeling overwhelmed and emotionally drained to moments where it felt hard to show up at all—I share what it’s been like behind the scenes, in hopes that someone out there feels a little less alone.

This isn’t a polished, picture-perfect episode. It’s raw, real, and from the heart. Because the truth is: it’s okay to not be okay. And it’s more than okay to ask for help when you need it. If you’re in a tough season right now, I see you. You are not alone. You are not a burden. And this low point does not define your worth.

Let’s talk about what it means to give ourselves grace, to reach out when we need support, and to hold on to hope—even when it feels far away. Healing isn’t linear, but better days are coming.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:

• An honest check-in on my mental health this past month

• The shame we often carry around not being “okay”

• Why asking for help is a strength, not a weakness

• Simple reminders for anyone struggling with their mental health

• How I’m starting to feel a little better, day by day

Connect with Me:
Instagram: @laurenmkepler
Email: lauren.m.kepler@gmail.com

If this episode resonates with you, please share it with a friend or leave a review—it helps the show reach more people who might need to hear this message today.

 

🌍 Global & Online Resources:

🧠 BetterHelp
https://www.betterhelp.com
Online therapy with licensed therapists. Flexible scheduling, virtual sessions, and financial aid available.

🧠 7 Cups
https://www.7cups.com
Free emotional support from trained volunteer listeners and affordable online therapy options.

🧠 Mental Health America (MHA)
https://mhanational.org
Free mental health screening tools, resources, and support information.

🧠 Therapy for Black Girls
https://www.therapyforblackgirls.com
A space for Black women and girls to find culturally competent therapists and mental health content.

🧠 The Loveland Foundation
https://thelovelandfoundation.org
Provides free therapy support to Black women and girls through its therapy fund.

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🇺🇸 U.S.-Based Crisis Support:

📞 National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (24/7):
Call or Text: 988
https://988lifeline.org
Free and confidential support for anyone in distress.

📱 Crisis Text Line (24/7):
Text HOME to 741741
https://www.crisistextline.org
Connect with a trained crisis counselor via text.

Ep. 166: Wearing Less, Stressing Less: Body Acceptance in Summer

As the weather warms up, so does the pressure to achieve the so-called “summer body.” Social media is once again flooded with weight loss tips, body “fixes,” and the outdated idea that only certain body types are worthy of showing up in the sun. In today’s episode, we’re cutting through the noise and talking about body acceptance and neutrality—practices that can help you show up confidently and comfortably, no matter your size or shape.

I’ll share my thoughts on the resurgence of 90s-style body messaging, the impact of comparison, and the ways I navigate dressing for my body while prioritizing confidence and comfort. Plus, we’ll get into practical strategies for shifting negative self-talk, setting boundaries with body commentary, and embracing the experience of summer without body-related anxiety taking over.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
🌞 Why summer tends to bring up body insecurities
🌞 How to shift your focus from appearance to functionality
🌞 The power of body neutrality and actionable mindset shifts
🌞 How to dress in a way that makes you feel comfortable and confident
🌞 Tips for handling unsolicited comments and setting boundaries
🌞 How to curate a social media feed that supports your body journey

Key Takeaways:
✨ Your body is not a problem to be fixed—every body is a summer body.
✨ Comparison is natural, but admiration is a powerful alternative.
✨ Body acceptance is a daily practice, not a final destination.
✨ You deserve to enjoy summer fully—without shame, stress, or restriction.

Resources & Links:
📲 Let’s connect on Instagram: @laurenmkepler
💌 If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend! Word of mouth helps this podcast grow and reach those who need it.

💛 Thanks for listening, and remember: your body deserves kindness, no matter the season.

Ep. 165-Upgrade Your Discipline From Self-Criticism to Self-Care

What if discipline wasn’t about punishment, but about self-respect? In this episode of Life Talks with Lauren, we’re rethinking the way we approach discipline—shifting from shame to self-love. Inspired by a quote from @bluewmist, I’m sharing how this mindset shift changed my life and how it can transform yours, too.

In This Episode, We Cover:

• Why discipline rooted in shame leads to guilt, burnout, and inconsistency.

• How reframing your habits as acts of self-care can make them more sustainable.

• My personal experience with exercise—from using it as a punishment to embracing it as self-love.

• The emotional toll of a “no excuses” mindset and how to break free from it.

• Practical ways to shift your mindset and build habits that feel good and last.

Reflection Questions for You:

• What’s one area of your life where discipline feels like punishment rather than self-care?

• How do you typically talk to yourself when you don’t follow through on a habit or goal?

• Can you reframe one of your “I have to” statements into an “I deserve to” statement?

• How would your daily habits change if you approached them from a place of love rather than obligation?

• What’s one small act of self-discipline you can commit to this week that feels like self-respect rather than self-punishment?

Let’s Continue the Conversation:
I’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your takeaways on Instagram and tag me @laurenmkepler. If this episode resonated with you, please leave a review and share it with someone who might need to hear it.

Listen Now: https://open.spotify.com/show/62EFL7WqMBBy83zcRDNmyH?si=61e3b4cb30ec4883

 

Ep. 164-Not Where I Thought I'd Be - And That's Okay

Turning 35 brings up a lot of emotions—gratitude, reflection, and sometimes, self-doubt. In this episode of Life Talks with Lauren, I’m opening up about the expectations I had for my life by this age versus the reality of where I am. We’ll talk about societal pressures, personal growth, and learning to embrace the journey, even when it looks different than expected. If you’ve ever felt like you’re falling behind in life, this episode is for you.

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What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
✅ The pressures and expectations around aging and milestones
✅ My personal journey: where I thought I’d be vs. where I actually am
✅ How I’ve learned to embrace uncertainty and redefine success
✅ The importance of gratitude, personal growth, and self-acceptance
✅ Encouragement for anyone feeling "behind" in life

 

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Listener Reflection & Engagement:
📢 What were your expectations for yourself by this age? How has your reality been different? Share your thoughts on social media and tag me @laurenmkepler!
💌 Subscribe & leave a review if you enjoyed this episode!
🎙️ Stay tuned for next week’s episode: "How Shame Influences Our Habits and Behaviors—And What We Can Do About It."

Ep. 163-Confidence, Freedom, and Embracing Aging as a Woman with Sami

Turning 40 can feel daunting for many women, but what if this milestone is actually a gateway to greater confidence, freedom, and self-acceptance? In this episode of Life Talks with Lauren, I’m joined by Sami from SHE Unbound to explore how women can embrace aging with empowerment rather than fear. We dive into the myths surrounding aging, the newfound confidence that comes with life experience, and why midlife can be one of the most exciting chapters yet.

Tune in as we discuss:
✔️ Why so many women fear aging—and how to shift that mindset
✔️ The confidence and freedom that come with turning 40
✔️ Body acceptance and self-care in midlife
✔️ Reinventing yourself at any stage—career, passions, and relationships
✔️ Practical tips for embracing 40 with joy and empowerment

If you’ve ever worried about getting older, this conversation is here to inspire and uplift you!

✨ Let’s connect!
📲 Follow me on Instagram: @laurenmkepler You can also connect with Sami @sheunbound
💬 Join the conversation and share your thoughts on aging! Tag me on social media or use #LifeTalksWithLauren
📩 Have a topic you’d love me to cover? Send me a DM!