The Nest Podcast and Blog
Listen up.
You can listen to my podcast on Spotify where I talk with special guests who are local therapists about creating the life, love, and relationships you want.
New episodes or blogs posted bi-weekly.
SZN. 4 Ep. 9/ Love Beyond Romance: What Emotionally Safe Relationships Really Feel Like
Love Beyond Romance: What Emotionally Safe Relationships February often centers romantic love, but meaningful connection goes far beyond that. This post explores what emotionally safe relationships actually feel like, how to recognize healthy versus draining dynamics, and why safety—not chemistry—is the foundation of true connection.
SZN. 4 Ep. 8/ Why Resolutions Fail—And How to Create Real Change in 2026
Many New Year’s resolutions fail—around 80% by mid-February—often not due to lack of willpower, but because of rigid goals, outcome-focused thinking, external pressures, and ignoring the body’s stress response. Alexandria Gohla, MSW, LCSW, Ed.S, explains that lasting change in 2026 comes from a different approach: anchoring goals in personal values, breaking habits into micro-steps, practicing somatic grounding, redefining success through self-compassion, and building supportive systems rather than chasing perfection. By focusing on consistency, small wins, and meaningful routines, you can finally turn resolutions into sustainable growth.
SZN. 4 Ep. 7/ Beyond Resolutions: Rethinking Change Before the New Year
Instead of chasing “New Year, New You” resolutions that often fail by February, Alexandria Gohla, MSW, LCSW, Ed.S, suggests a values-based approach to meaningful growth. Resolutions fail because they’re externally motivated, rigid, and disconnected from personal values. Sustainable change comes from reflecting on what’s already working, releasing what no longer serves you, and setting intentions rather than rigid goals. Practical strategies include conducting a compassionate year-in-review, choosing micro-goals that honor your nervous system, and finding supportive accountability. By focusing on self-compassion, intrinsic motivation, and small, safe steps, you can enter the New Year aligned with your values and build lasting, authentic growth.
SZN. 4 Ep. 5/ Holiday Anxiety and Family Triggers
The holidays can heighten stress and anxiety, especially around family gatherings. Alexandria Gohla, MSW, LCSW, Ed.S, explains that unresolved family dynamics, old roles, and past trauma often trigger intense emotional responses during the season. Common stressors include conflict, financial pressure, and the expectation of “perfect” celebrations. Effective strategies for managing holiday anxiety include setting realistic expectations, establishing boundaries, using somatic coping tools, limiting alcohol and caffeine, focusing on small moments of joy, and creating an exit plan. By preparing mentally and practicing self-compassion, you can navigate family gatherings with greater calm and resilience.