The Meredith Patterson Podcast

The Meredith Patterson Podcast is a heartfelt and inspiring series that delves into illuminating the universal human condition. Hosted by Meredith Patterson—an accomplished actress, dancer, singer, and writer with over 25 years of industry experience—the podcast offers an insider’s perspective on the triumphs, challenges, and life lessons of not only a creative career, but any walk of life with a focus on authenticity, vulnerability, and growth. Each episode features candid conversations with people from all industries, with honest reflections on mental health, and practical insights for overcoming obstacles and thriving. Meredith explores what it truly means to become the best version of yourself—no matter your background or journey. Whether you’re a creative, performer, dreamer, or simply someone seeking inspiration and meaningful connection, The Meredith Patterson Podcast delivers wisdom, humor, and heart in every episode. Join Meredith once a week for empowering stories, actionable advice, and a celebration of resilience, creativity, and the power of being human.

#MentalHealthMonday - 70 Times for 7 Days: The Manifestation Method That Rewires Your Reality 12/29/2025

#MentalHealthMonday - 70 Times for 7 Days: The Manifestation Method That Rewires Your Reality 70 Times for 7 Days: The Manifestation Method That Rewires Your Reality Hi beautiful souls, it’s Meredith, and welcome back to The Meredith Patterson Podcast. Today’s Mental Health Monday is going to shift you into a completely new frequency. We’re talking about an ancient, powerful manifestation technique called: The 70×7 Method. This practice comes from the teachings of Neville Goddard, one of the original voices behind modern manifestation and the Law of Assumption. And it is all about rewiring your subconscious mind using repetition, emotion, and present-tense identity. Let’s break it down. What Is the 70×7 Manifestation Technique? For seven straight days, you write your desire 70 times a day in the present tense, as if it is already happening. Not “I want…” But: “I am…” “I have…” “I receive…” Your brain is a pattern-recognition machine. What you repeat, it believes. What you believe, you create. This technique works because repetition imprints new neural pathways — literally training your subconscious to accept your desire as truth. And your subconscious is what runs 95% of your life. Why 70 Repetitions? Neuroscience shows that the brain begins to shift into automatic acceptance after about 60–70 repetitions of a single statement. That’s why affirmations often work slowly — we usually don’t repeat them enough times to override the old story. 70 reps creates a neural saturation point, especially when paired with emotion. Your brain says: “Okay. This must be true.” Why 7 Days? Because your subconscious forms habits in cycles of 6–7 days. Seven days creates a complete identity loop. You’re not just wishing — you are becoming. How to Do It Choose one desire. Just one. Focused energy is powerful energy. Write it 70 times a day, for seven days, in a notebook you dedicate just to this practice. Always in the present tense. For example: “I am financially free.” “I am in the healthiest, strongest body of my life.” “I am a bestselling author.” “I am living in my dream home in Montana.” “I am booked as a global keynote speaker every month.” Then — and this is key — feel it. Feel it as if you already have it. Emotion is the electricity of manifestation. Repetition is the wiring. Your desire is the voltage. The Science Behind It This method combines: 1. Neuroplasticity Creating new neural pathways through repetition. 2. The Reticular Activating System (RAS) Your brain’s “filter” begins seeking evidence that supports your written desire. 3. Somatic Activation Writing by hand engages your motor cortex, helping anchor the belief. 4. Emotional Encoding Feeling the desire sends a signal to your limbic system that this state is “safe,” reducing resistance and fear. 5. Quantum Theory of Vibration When you feel the future as now, your electromagnetic field shifts — aligning you with that reality. This is not wishful thinking. This is identity programming. How the Practice Feels By day 3, something magical happens: your desire stops feeling far away. By day 5, you feel a shift in your energy — grounded, powerful, certain. By day 7, you’ve stepped into the version of yourself who already has it. That’s the goal: Become the person your dream belongs to. Close Your Eyes & Visualize Right now, breathe deeply. Imagine the version of you who already has the thing you’ll write 70 times. Feel their happiness. Feel their gratitude. Feel their peace. Feel their certainty. That vibration is your compass. Final Thoughts Manifestation isn’t magic. Manifestation is alignment. The 70×7 method is a powerful, ancient, neuroscience-supported way of telling the universe — and your brain — “This is who I am now.” Try this for the next seven days. Then come back and tell me what shifted. Because I promise you… something will. Bliss is your birthright. And your dreams are already on their way. /episode/index/show/55ccec79-ffcf-4e8e-841e-96dd1bf33225/id/39354965

Designing Your New Year: A Vision & Alignment Coaching Session with Meredith 12/26/2025

Designing Your New Year: A Vision & Alignment Coaching Session with Meredith Designing Your New Year: A Vision & Alignment Coaching Session with Meredith Hello my beautiful friends, and welcome back to The Meredith Patterson Podcast. Today is a special episode — one that I’ve been preparing for with so much love, intention, and clarity. Because we are stepping into a new year… and I want you to step into it not just with goals — but with alignment. Not with pressure — but with purpose. Not with burnout energy — but with grounded, soulful direction. This episode is a coaching session from me to you — a moment to reset your inner compass, release what no longer fits, and design a year that supports the most authentic, powerful version of you. So take a deep breath… and let’s begin. 1. Looking Back with Compassion, Not Criticism The first thing I want you to know is this: You did not fail this year. You learned. You stretched. You survived. You loved. You tried. And that is enough. Let’s take a gentle look back — without judgment. Ask yourself: What am I proud of from this past year? What did I handle better than I expected? Where did I grow quietly, even if no one noticed? Where did I show resilience or softness? Now place your hand on your heart and ask: What do I no longer need to carry into the new year? Sometimes the heaviest weight is a thought, a belief, or a story. Let it fall away. 2. Building a New Year from the Inside Out I want you to hear this clearly: You don’t need a whole new life. You need a whole new approach. Most people build their new year backwards — they start with the “doing” instead of the “being.” But your life doesn’t change because you work harder. It changes because you think and feel differently. So let’s shift your energy. Ask yourself: Who do I want to be this year? More confident? More peaceful? More trusting? More disciplined? More joyful? More expressive? More open? Write down three qualities. These are your energetic anchors. Everything you do this year will flow from them. 3. The Nervous System Approach to Goal Setting Here is something no one tells you: Your nervous system decides what you manifest. Not your willpower. Not your hustle. Not your pressure. So when you set intentions this year, honor your capacity. Ask yourself: What feels supportive, not stressful? What feels expansive, not overwhelming? What feels aligned, not forced? Then write down three intentions that feel good in your body — not just impressive on paper. Because alignment is sustainable… and pressure isn’t. 4. Becoming the Version of You Who Already Has What You Want Now I want you to imagine your future self — one year from now. Where is she standing? What has she created? How does she feel in her body? What does her energy feel like? What does she know now? Let a single sentence rise to the surface, something like: “I trust myself.” “I am creatively fulfilled.” “I am peaceful and powerful.” “I am abundant in all forms.” Write it down. This is your New Year Identity Statement. Your North Star. 5. The Only Three Questions You Need to Shape Your Year To anchor everything we explored today, answer these three: What will I no longer tolerate this year? What will I give myself permission to do or be? What am I committed to creating — gently, consistently? Let these guide every decision you make in 2025. 6. Closing Empowerment My love… You are entering a new year as a wiser, stronger, softer, more aligned version of yourself. You don’t need to chase anything — you are becoming everything. Take one last breath with me. And repeat: “I am ready for a year filled with alignment, clarity, and joy. I am becoming the next version of myself. I trust the unfolding of my path.” And trust me… your path is unfolding beautifully. /episode/index/show/55ccec79-ffcf-4e8e-841e-96dd1bf33225/id/39447365

#MentalHealthMonday - Meredith's Morning Routine 12/22/2025

#MentalHealthMonday - Meredith's Morning Routine Hi everyone, it’s Meredith, and welcome back to Mental Health Monday on The Meredith Patterson Podcast. Today I want to take you inside something deeply personal and deeply powerful: My morning routine. And before you think, “Oh god, another routine I’ll never stick to,” hear me out. What I’m about to share is something I’ve refined over years of personal healing, neuroscience research, holistic wellness work, and honestly—surviving the highs and lows of a life on stage, on camera, in business, and as a mom. This routine isn’t about perfection. It’s about foundation. It’s about telling your brain, your body, and your spirit: “You matter. You come first. You are worthy of beginning your day with love.” So let’s dive in. 🛏️ Step 1: Make the Bed — Create Order for Your Brain The second your feet hit the ground, make your bed. This simple act instantly gives your brain a hit of dopamine — the “achievement” chemical — and signals safety, order, and readiness. Neuroscience shows that even tiny wins early in the day activate the prefrontal cortex, the part of your brain responsible for decision-making and positive momentum. You begin your day with a win. You teach your brain: I can do hard things easily. 🧘‍♀️ Step 2: Gentle Stretching — Wake Up Your Fascia & Energy Just a few minutes. Arms overhead, side stretches, roll your shoulders, fold forward. This wakes up your fascia — the connective tissue that literally determines how your body carries stress. When it’s tight, you are tight. When it’s awake, you are awake. Stretching is self-communication. It says: “Body, I feel you. Let’s move through this day together.” 🌬️ Step 3: Deep Circular Breathing — Repair Your Nervous System Inhale through the nose for 4. Hold for 4. Exhale through the mouth for 6. Repeat this for a minute or two. This regulates the vagus nerve and flips your body from “fight or flight” to “rest and repair.” This alone changes the entire trajectory of your mindset for the day. 🪞 Step 4: Mirror Work — Love Yourself Into the Day This one’s intimate. Stand in front of the mirror. Look directly into your own eyes. Say to yourself slowly: “I love you.” Mean it. Let it land. Then wink. And smile. Why the wink? Because research shows that micro-expressions of playfulness reduce cortisol and increase oxytocin — the bonding hormone. And you, my love, need to bond with you. This single moment of connection rewires old shame patterns and builds self-trust. 🧘‍♀️ Step 5: Meditation — 10 Quiet Minutes of Presence Sit. Breathe. Just be. Neuroscience tells us that meditation thickens the gray matter in the hippocampus — strengthening emotional regulation, reducing stress, stabilizing mood, and sharpening creativity. Ten minutes is enough to change your life. Truly. 🍋 Step 6: Lemon Water — Hydrate Your Brain & Reboot Your Metabolism Before coffee, drink 8 ounces of warm lemon water. This flushes toxins, boosts digestion, hydrates your brain, and increases clarity. Your body is 70% water — this step is like plugging yourself into a power source. 🏋🏻‍♀️ Step 7: Kitchen Strength Mini-Workout — Move Because You Can While your coffee brews: 25 pliés or squats Countertop push-ups Tricep dips using a chair A little stretch Three minutes. No excuses. Your body wakes up. Your spirit wakes up. Your confidence wakes up. Movement produces endorphins. Endorphins tell your brain: We are safe. We are strong. We are capable. 📵 Step 8: Don’t Look at Your Phone Yet — Protect Your Mental Space The moment you check your phone, you hand your peace over to the world. Give yourself the gift of your own presence first. Your brain deserves to wake up without comparison, noise, or cortisol spikes. 🤍 Step 9: Hug Those You Love — Human Touch is Medicine A hug — a real one — releases oxytocin and lowers stress instantly. If you have a partner, a child, or even a pet… hug them and breathe. Connection is healing. And beginning your day with love literally prepares your brain for gratitude and positivity. 💛 Final Thoughts A morning routine isn’t about discipline. It’s about self-respect. It’s about telling your brain: “We begin this day from love.” Try this for one week. See how your mood shifts, how your mind clears, how your resilience grows. And remember… Bliss is your birthright. You deserve mornings that make you feel alive. /episode/index/show/55ccec79-ffcf-4e8e-841e-96dd1bf33225/id/39239535

Year End Wrap Up Conversation with Meredith & Hammond 12/19/2025

#MentalHealthMonday - The Science & Soul Of Forgiveness 12/15/2025

Meredith IMDB Interview with her Producer Hammond Chamberlain 12/12/2025

Meredith IMDB Interview with her Producer Hammond Chamberlain Hello everyone and welcome to the Meredith Patterson podcast. I'm your host, Meredith, and this is a very special episode, you guys. This is a not planned episode. This is life happens sometimes and the episode you plan to do. Things happened. You were on vacation. It's been the holidays. It's, things are crazy. Guests had to cancel. Whatever happened, I actually think this is a pretty cool idea. So what is this episode? What is IMDB? So the internet movie database is a place where you can see actors' credits, right? So my producer, Hammond Chamberlain, had the idea to do a very special deep dive into my movie and television career and put it on Patreon, which Patreon is my page that is for fans only. And it's a paid membership as low as $5 a month. You get a lot of exclusive content like this. And so this was his idea to interview me and ask me about my internet movie database career. And he also talks about my books, Confessions of an actress from Chorus Girls or Broadway Star, and Confessions of an actress Sunday Letters from Moscow, which kind of chronicle my Broadway life with 42nd Street. So if you hear us talk about the books, it's really, it's for people who are fans of mine. If you aren't a fan of mine or you're becoming a fan of mine from listening to this podcast, please go get my books and learn a little bit more about me and listen to this episode and learn even more about another side of my career, which is TV and film. It's really fun. And I'm really thankful to Hammond for this idea. And I'm really happy to share it with you. It's a long episode. It's an hour and a half. So if you guys want to go for a nice, nice long walk with your dog or your spouse or your friend, go for it. And you guys listen to this episode. If you want to fold some laundry, clean, I don't know. Whatever you do when you listen to this podcast, This is a good one for a lengthy whatever. So thanks guys for listening. I appreciate it and enjoy learning a little bit more about me. Meredith Patterson IMDB Page https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0666322/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0_tt_0_nm_7_in_0_q_Meredith%2520Patterson Patreon https://www.patreon.com/c/Meredith_Patterson Meredith's Confessions Of An Actress Books https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09BMFSNNB?binding=hardcover&ref=dbs_m_mng_rwt_sft_thcv_tkin /episode/index/show/55ccec79-ffcf-4e8e-841e-96dd1bf33225/id/39242920

#MentalHealthMonday - When Friends Stay Friends With Those Who Hurt You 12/08/2025

#MentalHealthMonday - When Friends Stay Friends With Those Who Hurt You Hi friends, and welcome to Mental Health Monday on The Meredith Patterson Podcast. Today’s episode is about something that hits close to home for so many of us — what to do when people you thought were your friends stay close to those who have hurt you. This one’s raw. It’s not about being angry or bitter — it’s about self-respect, healing, and boundaries. We don’t talk enough about this part of healing. When someone deeply hurts you — maybe emotionally, maybe publicly, maybe through betrayal — and then you see people you care about still hanging around that person… it stings. It’s confusing, too. You start asking yourself: “Do they not believe me?” “Do they not care what I went through?” “Are they pretending it didn’t happen?” The truth is, it’s not your job to understand why someone chooses to stay connected to a person who hurt you. It’s your job to decide what that means for your boundaries moving forward. Let’s be real — a true friend doesn’t play both sides. A true friend doesn’t make excuses for the person who caused you pain. A true friend says, “If you hurt her, you hurt me too.” And if someone can still hang around the person who hurt you, that tells you something about their character — and it’s okay to take that information and act on it. You’re not being petty. You’re being protective. It’s okay to outgrow people. It’s okay to stop calling, stop explaining, and stop trying to make them understand your side. Because real healing happens when you stop trying to convince people of your worth and start surrounding yourself with those who already see it. Your circle should feel safe. Your friendships should feel mutual. And your peace should never be something you have to fight for. So here’s your permission slip: You can end friendships that feel unsafe. You can walk away without guilt. You can protect your heart and still wish people well from afar. Healing doesn’t mean keeping everyone in your life. Healing means honoring yourself enough to know who deserves to be there. If this resonated with you today, please share this episode with someone who might need to hear it. And remember: You deserve relationships that feel safe, genuine, and supportive. I’m Meredith Patterson — and this has been Mental Health Monday. Your bliss is your birthright. 💙 /episode/index/show/55ccec79-ffcf-4e8e-841e-96dd1bf33225/id/39128175

Teresa Catherine - An Award-Winning Producer, Writer, and Actress 12/05/2025

#MentalHealthMonday - Breaking “Good Girl” Conditioning 12/01/2025

Designing The Next Decade 11/28/2025

Designing The Next Decade Hi friends… it’s Meredith Patterson — and welcome back to The Meredith Patterson Podcast. Today’s episode is a deeply personal one. I recently turned fifty — (smile) half a century of becoming — and I’ve been reflecting on the big, beautiful question that we all face at some point in our lives: Who am I now? What do I truly want in this next chapter? And how do I design a life that’s not just successful… but deeply fulfilling? There’s a powerful tool I’ve discovered called Odyssey Planning — from Bill Burnett and Dave Evans at Stanford. They wrote a best-selling book called Designing Your Life — and the whole idea is this: to think like a designer when it comes to your future. Be curious. Be creative. Prototype your possibilities. So today, we’re going to do this together. Why Designing Your Life Matters at 50Turning fifty is not the end of anything… it’s a beginning. It’s a threshold where experience meets freedom. You’ve lived enough to know what doesn’t serve you — and you still have time to boldly explore what does. I’ve reinvented myself so many times. Broadway star, writer, producer, podcaster, mother, holistic coach… and, believe it or not, for five years — a licensed massage therapist. Yes — that’s right. After one of the hardest seasons of my performing career, I thought, Maybe it’s time to pivot. Maybe I’ll do something healing, something grounded, something that helps others feel better in their bodies. So I trained, I got licensed, I built a practice — and I did that work for five years. And honestly… I learned so much. About the human body. About trust. About compassion. I was invited into the most vulnerable spaces of people’s lives. And I am so grateful for that experience. But after a while… I realized something. I was doing it for the wrong reason. I wasn’t following my calling — I was following security. I was trying to make money, not meaning. Do I regret it? No. That chapter was a teacher. It reminded me that I’m a healer — yes — but my healing comes through my voice, my stories, and my art. So, if you’ve ever gone down a path that didn’t turn out to be your forever path — please hear me — it’s okay. It’s more than okay. Every pivot, every detour, is simply your compass realigning to truth. The Odyssey Plans – Three Possible Futures Alright — let’s design this next decade together. The Odyssey Planning method asks you to imagine three distinct five-year futures. Think of them as prototypes — experiments of what your life could be. Here’s how mine look right now. 🌿 Plan One: The Life I Think I’ll Live 6-word title: Merie Productions Expands, Family Flourishes, Legacy Deepens. If I stay on the path I’m on, I see Merie Productions growing into a full creative brand — with live shows, national tours, and meaningful stories told through performance. The podcast continues to inspire. Whitefish Living Magazine deepens its community roots. And Bliss Is Your Birthright becomes a movement that uplifts women everywhere. Personally, my boys will keep growing into amazing young men. Dustin and I will keep performing together — celebrating both music and marriage — and deepening our roots here in Montana. Questions this plan asks: Can I balance ambition with presence and peace? How do I sustain creativity without burnout? What legacy do I want to leave? This one feels right. 🌸 Plan Two: If Everything Changed 6-word title: The Reinvention—Teacher, Writer, Global Storyteller Emerges. What if tomorrow… everything I built disappeared? No stage. No podcast. No production company. What then? In that version, I become a global teacher, writer, and storyteller. I travel the world speaking about manifestation, resilience, and reinvention. I lead retreats in Italy or Bali, helping others rediscover their creative spirit. I write. I teach. I connect. Questions this plan asks: Could I thrive without the stage? How would teaching fulfill that creative need? What stories am I still meant to tell? And honestly, this plan excites me. It’s growth in a whole new form. 🌺 Plan Three: If I Didn’t Care About Money 6-word title: Spirit, Stillness, Art—The Freedom Decade. Now… let’s dream without limits. What if money didn’t matter at all? What if no one’s opinions or expectations defined my choices? I’d create for joy. I’d write songs, paint, garden, dance barefoot in the kitchen. I’d host intimate creative retreats here in Montana — just for the love of connection. I’d travel with my family. I’d wake up slowly. And live in full gratitude. Questions this plan asks: What does “enough” truly mean? How do I define success beyond achievement? Can I allow myself to just be instead of constantly do? Now that feels like bliss. Blending the Paths – Designing My Decade After exploring these three futures, I realized something powerful: They’re all me. Each path represents a truth I hold — creativity, purpose, connection, peace. And together, they form the next decade of my life. This chapter is about creative freedom, global impact, and peace. It’s about bringing all of me forward — the performer, the teacher, the healer, the storyteller. The massage therapist in me still exists — she’s the healer who listens deeply. But now… she heals through words and music. My symbol for this new chapter is 🌕 The Full Moon. It represents reflection, renewal, and radiant fullness. Always cycling. Always becoming. Your Turn — Design Your Life Now it’s your turn. Grab your journal… or open your Notes app. I want you to design your next decade. Ask yourself: What does your Plan One look like if nothing changes? What’s your Plan Two if everything does? And what’s your Plan Three if money—or judgment—didn’t exist? Then look for the patterns… The dreams that repeat… The themes that whisper “yes.” That’s your compass. That’s your truth. And remember — it’s okay to pivot. It’s good to change. You may think you want one path, until you walk it — and realize your heart is calling you somewhere new. That’s not failure. That’s wisdom. That’s knowing thyself. So here’s to turning fifty — not as an ending, but as a creative beginning. Here’s to freedom. Here’s to change. Here’s to keeping your compass pointed toward truth. Because bliss, my friends… is your birthright. 💫 If this episode inspired you, please share it, leave a five-star review, and tag me on Instagram so I can see your Odyssey Plans. And remember — have vision for what you want… and be grateful for where you are — every single day. @meredithpattersonpodcast @merpatterson @merieproductions /episode/index/show/55ccec79-ffcf-4e8e-841e-96dd1bf33225/id/38963785

#MentalHealthMonday - Happy 50th Birthday Meredith - How to Have Body, Mind & Spirit Alignment at 50 11/24/2025

#MentalHealthMonday - Happy 50th Birthday Meredith - How to Have Body, Mind & Spirit Alignment at 50 Today’s Mental Health Monday is especially close to my heart, because today I turn 50. And let me tell you — I’ve never felt more vibrant, radiant, and aligned than I do now. But that didn’t just happen. It’s the result of choices, mindset, and daily practices that nurture body, mind, and spirit. So, if you’re over 50 — or heading there — this episode is your reminder that your story isn’t over. It’s just entering a powerful new act. When I was in my 20s, I thought turning 50 meant slowing down, becoming invisible, or losing relevance. Now, standing here at this milestone, I feel the opposite. Yes, my body is different. Yes, my priorities have shifted. But I’ve discovered that alignment — body, mind, and spirit — is what creates true vitality. I’ve seen women shrink themselves as they age, believing society’s lie that beauty or value has an expiration date. But I’m here to tell you: it’s just the beginning. Science : Body: Movement produces brain fertilizer that keeps memory sharp. Strength training preserves muscle and bone density, reducing risk of cognitive decline. Mind: Neuroplasticity doesn’t stop. At any age, the brain can form new synapses when challenged with novelty. Learning, creativity, and curiosity are anti-aging tools. Spirit: Practices like gratitude, prayer, meditation activate the parasympathetic nervous system, lowering stress hormones and increasing feelings of connection. Action Tools : Body Ritual: Move daily. Even 15 minutes of strength, dance, or walking boosts brain health. Mind Ritual: Learn something new monthly — a language, skill, instrument. Keep your mind agile. Spirit Ritual: Create a morning or evening practice — gratitude journaling, meditation, or affirmations. Anchor yourself in peace. Reframe Aging: Write down three things you love about this stage of life. Remind yourself of wisdom gained, not just years lived. You are not too old. You are not past your prime. You are evolving, expanding, and refining. Body, mind, and spirit — when you align them, you become unstoppable. Age is not a decline — it’s an invitation to live deeper, wiser, and freer. So, let’s celebrate this chapter, because your next act may just be the best one yet. /episode/index/show/55ccec79-ffcf-4e8e-841e-96dd1bf33225/id/38901625

Acting As If - Five Practices for Reinvention at Any Age 11/21/2025

Acting As If - Five Practices for Reinvention at Any Age Hello, beautiful friends, and welcome back to The Meredith Patterson Podcast. I’m Meredith — performer, storyteller, coach, mom, creator, and someone who is stepping boldly into a brand-new decade… On Monday, I turn 50. And I’ll tell you something — I’ve never felt more alive, more grounded, more powerful, or more excited about what’s next. Today’s episode is about acting as if at every age. It’s about removing the timeline we were conditioned to follow — the one that says success has an expiration date, that dreams are only for the young, that reinvention belongs to your twenties. No. I’m here to tell you that age is not a deadline. It’s data. It’s lived experience. And we get to decide what it means. So today we explore how acting as if becomes even more potent, more truthful, and more aligned as we grow. And why becoming doesn’t stop just because candles on your cake increase. ✨ The Myth of the Timeline Let’s get honest: society loves a timeline. Get married by this age. Achieve financial stability by that age. Have kids by this age. Stop dreaming by this age. Stay in your lane forever and ever, amen. Turning 50 made me realize how many of those timelines I had absorbed without question. But here’s the truth: There is no late. There is only now. If you’re breathing, you’re becoming. We act as if we’ve missed our chance, when really, most of us haven’t even taken our first shot. So right now, ask yourself: What dream are you still carrying because some outdated timeline told you it’s too late? That dream is still alive for a reason. ✨ The Neuroscience of Reinvention Here’s the magic of turning 50 with a brain that still learns, grows, and adapts: neuroplasticity doesn’t retire. Your brain can literally retrain itself at any age. And the Reticular Activating System — the RAS — continues filtering your life based on what you believe about yourself. So if you believe: ‘I’m too old to start over,’ ‘I’m too old to get in the best shape of my life,’ ‘I’m too old to build a brand, a business, a book, a career’… Then your brain will hunt for proof. But if you act as if: ‘I’m just getting started,’ ‘I’m entering my prime,’ ‘I’m becoming the version of myself I always dreamed of’… Your brain will also find proof. And that’s the gift of 50 — you get to direct the story, not repeat it. ✨ Storytime — Reinventing Myself at 50 I want to share something personal. As many of you know, I spent decades in the Broadway world — dancing eight shows a week, living in rehearsal studios, grinding with passion. And for a long time I believed that era defined me. That my best work lived there. That my biggest joys were behind me. But here’s what becoming 50 taught me: I wasn’t done. I was evolving. I started acting as if the next chapter would be my most aligned, most impactful, most fulfilling yet. I launched this podcast. I stepped into publishing. I leaned deeper into coaching. I built a production company with my husband. I became a speaker, a teacher, a creator who serves from experience rather than from striving. None of those decisions came from waiting. They came from acting as if I already was the woman I was meant to grow into.” Pause for reflection: “Where in your life have you underestimated your next chapter? And what would happen if you acted as if you’re entering your most powerful decade right now? ✨ Five Practices for Becoming at Any Age 1. Speak Your Next Identity Out Loud Say: I’m a writer. Say: I’m a creator. Say: I’m in my prime. Identity begins with language. 2. Move Your Body Like the Future You At 50, movement feels different — not worse, just wiser. Stretch, breathe, lift, dance. Move like someone who plans to be vibrant at 80. 3. Create Space for Joyful Delusion Yes, joyful delusion — the playful belief that your wildest desires are possible. It’s not denial. It’s alignment. 4. Surround Yourself with Expanders People who show you what’s possible at any age. People who say, ‘Do it,’ not ‘Should you?’ The brain mirrors what it sees. 5. Journal as Your Future 60-Year-Old Self Write letters from your next decade. What did you build? Who did you become? What did you let go of? It is shockingly clarifying. ✨ Aging as Art, Not Decline We have been taught to fear aging. To shrink. To disappear quietly into a smaller and smaller life. But aging is art. A sculpting, a refining, a layering of wisdom and courage. Acting as if doesn’t mean pretending to be younger. It means stepping fully into the power that age gives you. It means becoming bigger, not smaller. Personal tie-in: When I look at pictures of myself at 25 and pictures of myself today, I don’t wish to be her again. She walked so I could run. At 50, I’m not done. I’m finally unleashed. ✨ Closing Reflection So my love, here’s the question I want you to take with you: What would you attempt today if age wasn’t a factor? If society’s timeline didn’t exist? If you acted as if the best part of your life was unfolding right now? Because the truth is — it is. You are becoming at every age. You are allowed to grow, reinvent, restart, and rise as many times as you need. And as I walk into 50 with open arms, I want to remind you: Your next chapter does not depend on age. It depends on belief. And belief is a choice you get to make every day. Thank you for joining me for this special birthday episode of The Meredith Patterson Podcast. If this resonated with you, I’d be honored if you subscribed, left a review, or shared this with someone who needs a reminder that their best years aren’t behind them — they’re right now. And as always… Bliss is your birthright. /episode/index/show/55ccec79-ffcf-4e8e-841e-96dd1bf33225/id/39088925

#MentalHealthMonday - Your Brain on Gratitude 11/17/2025

#MentalHealthMonday - Your Brain on Gratitude #MentalHealthMonday - Your Brain on Gratitude Hello and welcome to another Mental Health Monday. Today we’re diving into one of the simplest, most transformative practices: gratitude. Now, gratitude isn’t just saying thank you. It’s a rewiring tool for your brain. And when you understand the science of gratitude, you’ll see why it’s one of the most powerful daily practices you can do. Patreon Membership https://www.patreon.com/c/Meredith_Patterson When I was starring in 42nd Street, I thought I had everything I wanted — but there were nights I still felt empty. I wasn’t the original, I didn't have a Tony Nomination, I wasn’t getting ahead. It was exhausting. But soon after 9/11, I began the practice of gratitude and writing down 3 things every day I was grateful for — and getting out of my own ambitious head. A call from my sister, a quiet moment with tea, laughter and dancing to music in the dressing room. I started not looking at what I didn’t have (cause you will ALWAYS find something) And slowly, I looked at what I HAD and my perspective shifted. Gratitude didn’t erase stress, but it gave me a new lens. Instead of focusing on what I lacked, I started noticing what was already beautiful. Science: Gratitude releases dopamine and serotonin, the “feel-good” chemicals. It strengthens the prefrontal cortex, improving focus, decision-making, and positivity bias. Gratitude interrupts the brain’s negativity bias — the tendency to fixate on what’s wrong. Studies show consistent gratitude practice improves sleep, mood, and even immune function. Action Tools: Gratitude Journal: Write three things daily — but feel them, don’t just list them. Gratitude Reframe: In challenges, ask: “What’s one thing I can appreciate right now?” Gratitude Letter: Write to someone you’ve never thanked. This creates lasting positive effects for both of you. Gratitude Anchor: Pick a daily cue (like brushing your teeth) and pair it with thinking of one thing you’re grateful for. Gratitude isn’t just a nice idea. It’s neuroscience. Every time you practice it, you are strengthening your brain’s pathways for joy, resilience, and connection. So tonight, before bed, write down three things you’re grateful for. And feel the shift. Because gratitude doesn’t just change your day. It changes your brain. And when your brain changes, your whole life changes. /episode/index/show/55ccec79-ffcf-4e8e-841e-96dd1bf33225/id/38963675

Master Coach Suzanne Longstreet - Clearing Subconscious Blocks & Activating the Millionaire Mindset 11/14/2025

#MentalHealthMonday - The Neuroscience of Self-Sabotage 11/10/2025

#MentalHealthMonday - The Neuroscience of Self-Sabotage Welcome back to The Meredith Patterson Podcast. This is Mental Health Monday, where we take time to reset our week, strengthen our minds, and create intentional shifts. Today we’re diving into something we’ve all faced: self-sabotage. You know those moments where you procrastinate on the thing you want most? Or you start strong and then quit halfway? Or maybe you avoid an opportunity that could change your life? It’s not because you’re broken or lazy. It’s because of how your brain is wired. And today, I’m going to show you how to rewire it. When I was a young dancer in New York, I had big dreams but also big fear. I can remember before auditions, my brain would whisper, ‘You’re not ready. You’ll embarrass yourself. Who do you think you are?’ And sometimes, I believed it. I’d leave auditions early, I’d talk myself out of even showing up. And even after I booked Broadway, self-sabotage showed up again. I’d over-rehearse, obsess over perfection, or avoid rest — thinking I had to prove my worth. What I learned later was that none of this was personal weakness. It was neural wiring. Science: Our brains are designed to keep us safe. The amygdala, our fear center, is ancient. When it senses risk — whether that’s walking on stage, asking for a raise, or starting a new business — it doesn’t differentiate between real danger and imagined fear. It sends out stress hormones: cortisol, adrenaline. That’s when self-sabotage kicks in — procrastination, perfectionism, numbing behaviors like scrolling or over-eating. The good news? Neuroplasticity. Your brain can form new pathways. That means you can train it to associate risk with opportunity instead of danger. Action Tools: Name It to Tame It: When a sabotaging thought comes up, label it. “This is my amygdala talking.” That simple naming lowers its power. Visualization: Imagine yourself succeeding in vivid detail. Brain scans show visualization activates the same regions as real experience. Micro-Bravery: Instead of tackling the whole mountain, take one small step outside your comfort zone daily. Over time, this expands your safety zone. Self-Compassion: Studies show self-kindness activates the parasympathetic nervous system — calming the fear response. Talk to yourself as you would a friend. Closing: You are not broken. You’re not lazy. You’re human. Your brain is just trying to keep you safe. But you’re also powerful. You can rewrite those neural scripts. Imagine what your life would look like if you stopped sabotaging yourself and started directing your own brain’s play. Because that stage? It’s waiting for you. And the spotlight is yours. /episode/index/show/55ccec79-ffcf-4e8e-841e-96dd1bf33225/id/38901645

Tammy Simmons – Confidence and Self-Worth Advocate - Helping Girls Find Their Voice 11/07/2025

#MentalHealthMonday - Can AI Be Your Therapist? - Exploring the Promise and the Pitfalls 11/03/2025

#MentalHealthMonday - Can AI Be Your Therapist? - Exploring the Promise and the Pitfalls Can AI Be a Therapist? Exploring the Promise and the Pitfalls 🎵 Intro music fades in. Meredith (host): Hi friends—welcome back to The Meredith Patterson Podcast. Today we’re talking about something that’s both exciting and unsettling: AI and therapy. The idea of talking to an app instead of a person about your deepest struggles might have sounded like science fiction a few years ago. But today, it’s a reality. AI chatbots, mental health apps, and digital platforms are being marketed as affordable, accessible “therapists.” And while there are some genuine advantages, there are also serious drawbacks—including tragic outcomes, like the heartbreaking case of a young person who died by suicide after using ChatGPT as their only source of support. So let’s slow down and ask: Is AI really the future of therapy? Or is it just a tool with potential—one that requires careful, ethical development before it becomes mainstream? (Trigger warning: this episode includes discussion of suicide. Please take care of yourself as you listen. If you or someone you love is struggling, call or text 988 in the U.S. for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.) The Allure of AI Therapy Why are people turning to AI? It comes down to access, cost, stigma, and convenience. Increased Accessibility & Affordability: Therapy is expensive. Waitlists can be months long. AI apps are available 24/7 and at a fraction of the cost—or even free. Reduced Stigma: For people afraid of being judged, talking to a chatbot can feel easier than opening up to a human. Personalization & Scalability: AI can analyze patterns in your mood or language and adjust responses, tailoring strategies in a way that feels custom-made. Anonymity: There’s a sense of safety in talking to something non-human. No shame, no raised eyebrows. Augmenting Human Therapists: Some therapists are even starting to use AI to track patient progress, manage scheduling, or provide psycho-education between sessions. On paper, this sounds like a mental health revolution: therapy for everyone, at any time, in any place. The Shadow Side But here’s the sobering truth: AI is not a therapist. Let’s look at the major drawbacks: Lack of Human Connection & Empathy: Therapy isn’t just words—it’s tone, presence, empathy, and trust. An algorithm cannot offer the nuanced compassion that comes from lived human experience. Ethical & Privacy Concerns: Your conversations with AI are stored somewhere. Who has access to them? How are they used? Data privacy is one of the biggest unresolved risks. Limited Scope & Crisis Support: AI cannot truly understand complex life situations. It struggles with nuance, and it cannot safely intervene in a crisis. Potential Bias & Inaccuracies: AI learns from human data, which means it can inherit human bias—racial, gender, cultural. This can lead to harmful or inequitable responses. Inflexibility & Over-Reliance: Some users may become dependent on AI, avoiding human contact and real decision-making. Others may treat AI responses as definitive when they’re not. When we frame it this way, the danger becomes clearer. For someone vulnerable—say, in the middle of a depressive spiral—AI’s lack of nuance or accountability can be devastating. Where Does AI Fit in Mental Health? So, is AI useless? Not at all. But we need to place it in the right context. 1. Hybrid Approach The most promising future is a hybrid model—where AI supports, but does not replace, human therapists. For example: Daily check-ins on mood, sleep, or habits. Automatic journaling prompts or guided meditations. Pre-session summaries therapists can use to maximize time with clients. 2. Need for Safeguards AI in mental health must have robust safety features: Clear disclaimers that it’s not a substitute for professional care. Crisis redirection to hotlines like 988. Transparent algorithms that minimize bias. Strong data protections so conversations aren’t exploited. 3. Ethical Frameworks Governments, healthcare systems, and developers must create ethical standards before AI is widely integrated. Without regulation, we risk putting vulnerable people in the hands of tools that can’t protect them. The Big Question: Can AI Replace a Human Therapist? Here’s the bottom line: No. AI can mimic conversation, provide psycho-education, and even track behavioral data—but it cannot replace the nuanced, relational, deeply human work of therapy. Therapy is about more than words. It’s about being seen, heard, and understood by another human being who has training, accountability, and compassion. That’s not something a machine can replicate. Call to Action So, what do we do with this information? If you’re curious about AI tools, use them cautiously. Let them supplement your self-care, but don’t treat them as a substitute for real therapy. If you need help, reach for humans first. Talk to a licensed therapist, a trusted friend, or call 988 if you’re in crisis. Push for accountability. Support conversations around AI ethics, privacy, and regulation in mental health. Redefine access. Imagine a world where AI helps remove logistical barriers, while human therapists provide the heart of care. That’s the direction worth building toward. The future of mental health is not either-or. It’s not humans or machines. It’s humans supported by technology that’s safe, ethical, and compassionate. But make no mistake: nothing replaces the healing power of human connection. If this episode resonated with you, please share it. We need more open conversations about the future of therapy, and about protecting those who are most vulnerable. And always remember—Bliss is your birthright. /episode/index/show/55ccec79-ffcf-4e8e-841e-96dd1bf33225/id/38747755

The Habit of Adults Who Weren’t Truly Loved As Kids 10/31/2025

The Habit of Adults Who Weren’t Truly Loved As Kids The Habit of Adults Who Weren’t Truly Loved As Kids Today I want to speak into something delicate: habits that emerge not from flaws, but from survival. Habits that whisper stories of childhood wounds, especially for those who grew up without feeling truly loved. I recently came across an article called “11 Quiet Habits of Adults Who Didn’t Feel Loved as Kids”. It resonated deeply, and I’d like to walk through those habits with you — naming them, unpacking them, and exploring: how do we begin to soften them? This episode is for you if any of these behaviors feel familiar. Consider this a gentle companion through reflection and healing. It’s important to start with compassion: these are not flaws, but survival mechanisms. They made sense at one time, to protect, to adapt. We don’t become these habits because we’re broken — they became part of our internal toolkits when love, validation, or safety were inconsistent or absent in childhood. Healing and change is possible, though it takes time, awareness, and kindness (especially toward ourselves). The 11 Quiet Habits — With Reflections I’ll go through each habit, name it, reflect on how it might show up, why it might have emerged, and suggest a question or small practice to begin softening it. 1. Overthinking Becomes Second Nature What it looks like: replaying conversations, worrying about tone, second-guessing every text, trying to predict what others are thinking. Why it emerges: In childhood, when love or security felt conditional, over-analysis can feel like a strategy: if I foresee every possible mistake, maybe I can prevent rejection. Gentle practice / question: Notice when your mind is looping. Pause and ask: What would I say to a friend in this loop?Could I show myself that same patience? 2. Having a Hard Time Saying “No” What it looks like: agreeing to things you don’t want to, reluctance to set boundaries, internal guilt when you say no. Why it emerges: If asserting your needs felt unsafe or dismissed as a child, you may have unconsciously learned that saying “no” risks loss of love. Gentle practice / question: Start small: pick one small request you feel comfortable declining (even gently). Notice the internal reaction. What fears show up? Breathe and remind yourself: your “no” doesn’t make you unlovable. 3. Bottling Up Emotions What it looks like: keeping feelings “inside,” detaching emotionally, difficulty expressing sadness, anger, or vulnerability. Why it emerges: Perhaps expressing feelings in childhood was discouraged, ignored, punished, or simply unsafe. Hiding was safer. Gentle practice / question: Try journaling a safe space: “Today I feel ___.” Resist the urge to censor it. Let the words flow without judgment. Over time, small cracks open to healthier expression. 4. Always Asking for Reassurance What it looks like: asking “Do you still love me?” “Do you still like me?” “Am I okay?” repeatedly in relationships. Why it emerges: If emotional attunement was inconsistent in childhood, you may carry a fear that love can disappear. Reassurance becomes a safety check. Gentle practice / question: When you find yourself seeking reassurance, pause. Ask: What is the feeling underneath — fear, insecurity, doubt? Can I offer that inner child a kind reassurance first? 5. Struggling to Trust Even Good People What it looks like: keeping emotional distance, testing partners, anticipating betrayal even when nothing suggests it. Why it emerges: If caregivers were unreliable or hurtful, the internal belief can form: closeness = danger. So we default to caution. Gentle practice / question: Identify one person in your life who has shown consistency. Try leaning in a little — perhaps sharing something small — and notice how they respond. Give evidence to rewrite old expectations. 6. Trying to Be Perfect All the Time What it looks like: perfectionism, overachievement, being overly critical of mistakes, burnout. Why it emerges: If love felt conditional — “only when you're good enough” — you may believe you must perform always at your best to be worthy. Gentle practice / question: Choose a small area to allow imperfection today. Maybe a messy corner, or a creative project that just “is.” Notice the guilt or discomfort, and then breathe into it: I am enough even at rest. 7. Saying “Sorry” for Everything What it looks like: apologizing constantly — for existing, for small things, for others’ feelings — even when you did nothing wrong. Why it emerges: Maybe in childhood you learned that expressing yourself or making waves would be met with disapproval. “Sorry” becomes preemptive protection. Gentle practice / question: Monitor your speech for “sorry.” When you catch yourself saying it unnecessarily, pause and reframe: was it really your fault? Could you replace it with a thank-you, or a “thank you for your patience”? 8. Avoiding Conflict Like the Plague What it looks like: not bringing up disagreements, suppressing needs, staying silent in relationships even when hurt. Why it emerges: If conflict in childhood meant punishment, emotional withdrawal, or violence, your system learned: avoid conflict to survive. Gentle practice / question: Start with low-stakes conflict. Use gentle assertive language: “I feel ___ when ___; could we try ___?” See how your nervous system responds. Practice saying your piece safely. 9. Feeling Undeserving of Love What it looks like: believing deep down that you don’t deserve affection, settling for less, pushing away good things, self-sabotage. Why it emerges: Without early consistent, unconditional love, an internal narrative can grow: I’m unlovable. Gentle practice / question: Write a letter to your younger self: You always deserved love. You always will. Read it aloud. Return to that affirmation. Let it root. 10. Doing Everything Alone What it looks like: insisting on self-reliance, never asking for help, hiding struggle, burnout from carrying heavy loads. Why it emerges: If in childhood, you couldn’t rely on caregivers for help, you internalized: “I must do it myself or I’ll be let down.” Gentle practice / question: Ask for help this week, even in a small way — a friend, a co-worker, a service. Notice the resistance. Notice how it feels when help arrives. It’s okay to lean. 11. Needing Routines to Feel Safe What it looks like: rigid schedules, resistance to change, anxiety when things shift, hyper-control over daily life. Why it emerges: In chaotic or emotionally unpredictable childhoods, routines become anchors of safety and predictability. Gentle practice / question: Try introducing one small improvisation in your day — a new route, a shifted meeting time, a spontaneous break. Notice the discomfort, then soften around it: I can be okay even in change. Overlaps, Interactions & Patterns These habits often don’t appear in isolation — they interweave. For example, if you bottle emotions, you may also avoid conflict, or seek reassurance. Patterns reinforce one another: overthinking can fuel perfectionism; hyper-independence can isolate you from safe connection. It’s helpful to notice which habits are strongest for you — those might offer the best starting point for awareness and gentle work. Pathways Forward — Healing, Softening, Rewriting Here are some practices and ideas to accompany you in the journey. You don’t have to fix everything at once. Cultivate Awareness Mindfulness, journaling, or reflection can help you notice when a habit is active, rather than being unconsciously driven by it. Self-Compassion & Inner Dialogue Speak to your younger self with kindness. Internalize messages you didn’t receive: you were worthy, you deserve love, you are safe now. Therapeutic Support Working with a therapist, coach, or counselor who is trauma- or attachment-informed can help unearth deeper patterns, hold space for grief, and guide rewiring. Gradual Exposure to New Experiences Practice small pushes against comfort zones: asking for help, voicing a boundary, risking vulnerability in small ways. Each positive experience challenges old beliefs. Building Safe Relationships Surround yourself (or gradually lean into) relationships where consistency, communication, care, and boundaries are present. Let others’ kindness become new data for your internal world. Rituals of Reclamation Create your own ceremonies, letters, practices that affirm your value and worth. Celebrate small steps, hold space for grief, name your progress. Thank you for walking through these quiet habits with me today. If you recognized even one of these in your life, you’re not alone. You adapted. You survived. And now, step by step, you can soften, heal, and build new neural pathways toward safety, connection, and belonging. If this episode resonated, reflect: which habit feels loudest in you? Start there. Don’t rush. Let small changes and self-kindness be your guide. If you’d like, I’d love to share a future episode where I walk through journaling prompts or guided practices specific to these habits. Let me know if you’re up for that. Until then: be gentle with yourself. You are deeply worthy. /episode/index/show/55ccec79-ffcf-4e8e-841e-96dd1bf33225/id/38747635

#MentalHealthMonday How Do You Want To Be Remembered? 10/27/2025

#MentalHealthMonday How Do You Want To Be Remembered? Happy Mental Health Monday, everyone. Today’s episode is deeply personal—it’s my mother’s 80th birthday. And with that comes reflection. Birthdays, especially of those we love, invite us to pause and ask: How do we want to be remembered?And more importantly—how are we living right now, today, to shape that legacy? Section 1 – Memory and Legacy On my mother’s birthday, I think about her life, her presence, and her impact. I don’t think about her clothes, or the things she owned, or any kind of status symbol. What stays with me is how she loved, how she cared, and how she made others feel. At the end of our lives, that’s what it’s all about. Not the car we drove. Not the size of our home. Not how many followers we had on Instagram. It’s about the love we gave, and the love we received. It’s about the connections, the laughter, the moments when we chose kindness over judgment, forgiveness over resentment, and gratitude over bitterness. Section 2 – Asking the Big Question So let me ask you today: How do you want to be remembered? Take a moment and really think about it. When your name is spoken years from now, what do you want people to say? That you were generous with your time? That you lifted others up when they felt small? That you lived life with joy, purpose, and courage? This isn’t a morbid question—it’s actually the most life-giving question we can ask ourselves. Because once we know the answer, we can start aligning our daily choices with that vision. Section 3 – Conscious Living Every single day, we get to decide: What thoughts we feed. What words we speak. What actions we take. We can live every day as if it’s our last—not in fear, but in freedom. Freedom to love bigger, to forgive faster, to say “I’m proud of you” or “I love you” more often. Living consciously means realizing that the legacy we want to leave is being written right now, today, in this very moment. Section 4 – Practical Takeaway So here’s a simple practice for this week: Every morning, ask yourself: If today were my last, how would I want to show up? Would you call a friend you haven’t spoken to in years? Would you take that walk with your child instead of scrolling your phone? Would you smile at a stranger, just because? These small actions, repeated daily, create a life that will be remembered with love. 🎙️ Outro So on this Mental Health Monday, in honor of my mom’s birthday, I invite you to live with legacy in mind. To consciously choose love over fear, connection over distraction, presence over busyness. Because in the end, life is not about things—it’s about love. And the best way to be remembered is to live every single day as your best self, giving and receiving love along the way. Thank you for listening. Until next time, remember—your bliss is your birthright. 💙 /episode/index/show/55ccec79-ffcf-4e8e-841e-96dd1bf33225/id/38747705

Identity, Mindset & Becoming with Dr. Albert Bramante 10/24/2025

#MentalHealthMonday - The Burden and Gift of Perspective 10/20/2025

#MentalHealthMonday - The Burden and Gift of Perspective Hello, beautiful friends, and welcome back to The Meredith Patterson Podcast. Today’s Mental Health Monday is one that comes straight from my heart—and from a place I think many of you will recognize in yourselves. We’re talking about perspective—how the lens through which we see our lives can either crush us or set us free. 🎙️ Personal Story & Vulnerability I want to start by being really honest. There have been mornings—many mornings—when I wake up and think: I’ve failed at nearly everything. Failed in my career. Failed financially. Failed in life. Failed at being fully accepted. I’ve noticed something painful about my perspective: I often feel more loved, more accepted by colleagues and friends, when I’m succeeding. When I’m onstage. When I’m doing something “big.” When I’m shining. And if I’m really honest, that started with my parents. Growing up, love was… conditional. The attention I received was strongest when I was achieving, when I was performing, when I was connected to celebrities or important people in the business. If I wasn’t in that spotlight, it felt like I was invisible. Out of sight, out of mind. So the perspective I carried into adulthood was: Success equals love. Performance equals acceptance. And the truth? That’s not love. 🎙️ The Struggle of Perspective Because of that perspective, I work incredibly hard. I set goals. I push myself all the time. I tell myself that when I achieve the next big thing, I’ll be loved. I’ll be accepted. But here’s the burden: that perspective leaves me feeling like I’ll never be enough. It’s exhausting. It’s painful. And it’s a filter through which I sometimes see everything. And yet—this is the work. The work of unwinding the perspective I was handed so I can be free from this pain and so I don’t pass this down to my children. Because that cycle—of conditional love tied to achievement—is not something I want them to inherit. 🎙️ The Lesson in Perspective So what’s the lesson here? Perspective is not always truth. It’s just the lens we’re looking through. My lens was shaped by childhood, by family, by show business, by years of applause and silence. But I get to choose whether to keep that lens on—or to shift it. I can acknowledge: Yes, I was raised in a way where love felt conditional. But I can also tell myself: That is not the definition of love. Love is not applause. Love is not conditional on my résumé or my bank account. Love is steady. It’s patient. It’s presence. And the more I practice seeing love and acceptance through that lens, the lighter the burden becomes. 🎙️ Tools & Affirmations for Shifting Perspective I want to share some simple tools that have started to help me—and can help you—shift perspective every day: 1. Morning Check-In. When you wake up, before you check your phone or start your to-do list, ask yourself: What do I need most today? It might be rest, joy, connection, or focus. Give yourself permission to honor that need. 2. Gratitude Swap. When your mind says “I failed,” swap it with something you’re grateful for in that exact moment. Gratitude interrupts negative perspective and creates new pathways for self-love. 3. Mirror Work. Look at yourself in the mirror each morning and speak kindness into your reflection. Even if it feels awkward. I have been trying this a lot lately and sometimes I laugh at myself. But I still do it. I have to see myself differently and love that woman in the mirror. Even through tears sometimes I say “Hey Mer, I love you. I got you” 4. Write It Down. Keep a journal where you rewrite old perspectives. For example: I am only loved when I succeed becomes I am loved because I exist. And here are some daily affirmations you can say out loud, whisper, or write down: “I am worthy of love exactly as I am.” “My value is not defined by my achievements.” “I release the need to earn love—I already have it within me.” “Every day, I choose to see myself with compassion and acceptance.” “Bliss is my birthright.” 🎙️ Practical Takeaway for Listeners If you’re listening to this and recognizing yourself in my story—here’s what I invite you to do: Ask yourself: What perspective about love, success, or acceptance am I carrying that might not actually be true? Write it down. Then gently, compassionately, start to unwind it. Remind yourself: that perspective came from somewhere, but you don’t have to let it define your future. Perspective can either be a prison or a key. And you get to decide. Thank you, as always, for sharing this space with me. Mental Health Mondays are about reminding each other that we’re not alone, that we can heal, and that the way we see ourselves and the world can change. I’m grateful you’re here. I’m grateful for your perspective. And I hope today’s reflection helps you shift yours just a little bit closer to love—the unconditional kind. Until next time, I’m Meredith Patterson, and remember: Bliss is your birthright. 💙 /episode/index/show/55ccec79-ffcf-4e8e-841e-96dd1bf33225/id/38573485

The Secret to Soul Joy: How to Stop Burnout Before It Stops You - with Dr Julie Merriman PHD 10/17/2025

The Secret to Soul Joy: How to Stop Burnout Before It Stops You - with Dr Julie Merriman PHD Hello, beautiful friends, and welcome back to The Meredith Patterson Podcast. I’m your host, Meredith, and today’s episode is one I know will speak deeply to your heart and spirit. My guest is Dr. Julie Merriman, Ph.D.—a nationally recognized counselor, professor, author, and speaker with over two decades of experience helping people move from burnout and depletion to balance, alignment, and what she calls soul joy. Dr. Merriman is the author of In Pursuit of Soul Joy: A 12-Week Guide to Overcoming Burnout and Compassion Fatigue with Sustainable Self-Care, and her work is grounded in both evidence-based practices and holistic healing approaches. What I love most about her is that she doesn’t just talk about wellness—she lives it. From her clinical practice and leadership in academia, to her own joyful life on a ranch in Central Texas, Dr. Merriman embodies what it means to create sustainable practices that keep us whole. Julie, thank you so much for being here today. Welcome to the podcast! BIO Dr. Julie Merriman is a Licensed Professional Counselor, professor, and author who has spent over 20 years guiding clients, students, and readers to move from stress and burnout into resilience, clarity, and joy. She blends evidence-based therapeutic practices with holistic healing tools to help people not just recover, but thrive. She’s the author of In Pursuit of Soul Joy, which is a powerful 12-week guide designed to help you overcome burnout and compassion fatigue through practical, sustainable self-care. 📖 Website: 📸 Instagram: 📘 Facebook: Julie Merriman, Ph.D. Be sure to check out her book, her online resources, and the incredible inspiration she shares daily on social media. Julie, thank you again for sharing your wisdom and your heart with us today. You are truly helping people live with more alignment, more peace, and more joy. To my listeners, I encourage you to follow Julie on Instagram @drjuliemerriman, visit her website at , and explore her book In Pursuit of Soul Joy. If this episode inspired you, please share it with a friend who needs a little encouragement today, and don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss these conversations. Until next time, remember: Bliss is your birthright. Have vision for what you want, and be grateful for where you are. Thank you so much for listening. /episode/index/show/55ccec79-ffcf-4e8e-841e-96dd1bf33225/id/38232380

#MentalHealthMonday - Dead Butt Syndrome & The Mental Cost of Sitting Too Much 10/13/2025

#MentalHealthMonday - Dead Butt Syndrome & The Mental Cost of Sitting Too Much Hey friends, and welcome back to Mental Health Monday on The Meredith Patterson Podcast. I'm your host, Meredith — and today, we’re diving into something that might sound funny at first but is actually very serious… it’s called Dead Butt Syndrome. Yes, you heard that right. Dead. Butt. Syndrome. It’s technically known as gluteal amnesia, and it happens when your glute muscles — the powerful engines that stabilize your hips, support your spine, and propel your entire body — start to forget how to fire properly. And it turns out… this isn’t just about tight hips or poor posture. It’s deeply connected to how we feel mentally and emotionally too. So today, we’re going to unpack why sitting is the new smoking, how this modern sedentary lifestyle affects our physical and mental health — and most importantly, what we can do about it. Let’s get into it. What Is “Dead Butt Syndrome”? Believe it or not, your glutes — your butt muscles — are some of the strongest in your body. They’re designed to keep you upright, moving, grounded, and mobile. But when you sit for hours at a time — whether it’s at your desk, in your car, on your couch — those glutes go offline. Literally. They forget how to activate. That’s why the condition is called gluteal amnesia — your brain and muscles stop working together the way they’re meant to. Here’s what happens: Your hip flexors tighten from being constantly shortened. Your glutes weaken from disuse. Your lower back starts to overcompensate, often leading to chronic pain. Your posture collapses — slumped shoulders, tilted pelvis, forward head. This physical imbalance might seem like a small price to pay for a day at the desk. But the consequences over time? Not so small. The Mental Toll of a “Dead Butt” Here’s where it gets real: Your body and your brain are in constant communication — and when your body is out of alignment, tired, and in pain… your mental health suffers too. Here’s how gluteal amnesia and prolonged sitting can negatively affect your mental state: ✅ Fatigue – Weak glutes and poor posture require your body to work harder to do basic tasks. You’re draining energy unnecessarily, which leaves you feeling sluggish. ✅ Brain Fog – Poor posture and shallow breathing reduce oxygen flow to the brain. This literally clouds your thinking and shortens your attention span. ✅ Mood Swings & Irritability – Chronic discomfort or pain increases cortisol (the stress hormone). Add in lack of movement, and you’ve got the perfect storm for anxiety and mood dips. ✅ Depression Risk – Studies show that a sedentary lifestyle is linked to increased risk of depression. Movement releases feel-good chemicals like serotonin and dopamine — sitting blocks that natural release. ✅ Disconnection – When your body isn’t engaged, your mind checks out too. You start to feel… stuck. Disconnected. Unmotivated. It’s all connected. You don’t just feel stiff. You feel stuck in your life. 🧘‍♀️ How to Wake Up Your Glutes & Protect Your Mind So now that we know what we’re dealing with, what can we do? The good news is: You can reverse dead butt syndrome with simple, intentional daily practices — and as you reactivate your body, your mind follows. ✨ Here’s your glute-and-mind reactivation prescription: Get Up Every 30 Minutes Set a timer. Stand, stretch, or take a short walk. Even 1–2 minutes can undo the negative effects of sitting. Activate Your Glutes Daily Do 10–15 reps of: Glute bridges Clamshells Standing kickbacks Squats You don’t need a gym. You just need consistency. Fix Your Posture Sit tall, feet flat, shoulders relaxed. Use a lumbar pillow or standing desk if needed. Mindful Movement Try yoga, walking, or dance. Movement is medicine — for your body and your mind. Breathe Deeply Expand your diaphragm, not just your chest. This calms the nervous system and brings your body into balance. Get Outside Nature and sunlight lift your mood. Walking outside helps rewire your brain away from stagnation. Your Mind Lives In Your Body Here’s the truth I want you to walk away with today: Mental health is not just in your head. It lives in your body. When your body is activated, aligned, and supported — your mind feels clearer, calmer, and more alive. So the next time you feel low, unfocused, or overwhelmed… check in with your body. Are you sitting too long? Have your glutes gone offline? It might sound silly — but trust me — Waking up your butt might just wake up your whole life. If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend, subscribe to the podcast, and leave a 5-star review — it helps more people find this kind of holistic mental wellness content. And remember: Bliss is your birthright. Your body wants to move. Your mind wants to feel free. Let’s give them both what they need. See you next week. 💫 /episode/index/show/55ccec79-ffcf-4e8e-841e-96dd1bf33225/id/37706145

From Stage Lights to Survival: The Real Elly Brown’s Incredible Journey 10/10/2025

From Stage Lights to Survival: The Real Elly Brown’s Incredible Journey Hello, beautiful friends, and welcome back to The Meredith Patterson Podcast. I’m your host, Meredith Patterson, and today’s episode is one that will inspire you, move you, and remind you of the strength we all carry inside. My guest is the radiant Elly Brown—a singer, actress, model, host, and cancer survivor whose story is nothing short of extraordinary. Elly’s journey has taken her from her earliest dreams of performing, through an unexpected battle with oral cancer, to a remarkable new chapter of resilience, authenticity, and joy. In this conversation, we’ll explore her dreams, her determination, her tenacity, and how she continues to live with grace and purpose—even after facing some of life’s greatest challenges. So let’s dive in. Please welcome the incredible Elly Brown to the podcast. BIO Elly Brown lived a full life as a freelance performer—acting, hosting, singing, and modeling—until oral cancer appeared and drastically altered the course of her career. Before her diagnosis, she dazzled audiences in Bally’s Jubilee! and Peepshow starring Holly Madison, toured with the a cappella group The Sound Collage, and even sang with the Las Vegas Philharmonic under the direction of David Itkin. But everything changed when Elly’s tongue and jaw had to be rebuilt in order to save her life—using bone, skin, and muscle tissue from her leg. During her slow recovery, she began sharing her thoughts and feelings online. What surprised her most was that her audience connected with her after cancer even more deeply than before. Despite scars on her face, neck, and leg—and a speech impediment—her videos began to go viral, one after another. Soon, she was proving to the world, and to herself, that visible challenges do not erase your value. In fact, they can amplify your voice. With her fiancé Rick Lax, Elly co-founded Network Media, producing skits, dramas, hacks, DIY, cooking, and comedy videos with hundreds of multi-talented performer friends. Her message of hope continues to ripple outward: follow your dreams, live authentically, and never let scars—seen or unseen—hold you back. Elly, thank you for sharing your journey with us today. Your story is a true testament to resilience, determination, and the beauty of authenticity. You remind us all that protecting our peace and honoring our truth are the greatest gifts we can give ourselves. And that our challenges do not define us—it’s our perspective, persistence, and willingness to keep moving forward that shape the chapters of our lives. To my listeners: If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend who could use a little inspiration today. Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss a conversation like this one. You can also find Elly online to continue following her incredible journey. Until next time, remember: Bliss is your birthright. Have vision for what you want, and be grateful for where you are. Thank you so much for listening. Connect & Follow Elly Brown https://www.facebook.com/RealEllyBrown If you are suffering from oral lichen planus, please don't wait and get to the doctor and get treatment right away for more information https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/oral-lichen-planus/symptoms-causes/syc-20350869 /episode/index/show/55ccec79-ffcf-4e8e-841e-96dd1bf33225/id/38232295

#MentalHealthMonday - Identity, Self-Worth, and Life’s Shifts 10/06/2025

#MentalHealthMonday - Identity, Self-Worth, and Life’s Shifts #MentalHealthMonday - Identity, Self-Worth, and Life’s Shifts Welcome back to The Meredith Patterson Podcast. It’s Mental Health Monday, and today’s episode is going to be a little different. It’s just you and me, and I’m going to get real and vulnerable about something I’ve been walking through — and how it connects to the larger conversation around identity, self-worth, and the changes life throws at us. The Body and Identity Our bodies are often the first thing people see. They carry our history, our culture, our presence in the world. And because of that, many of us attach so much of our identity and our self-worth to them. When something about our body changes — whether through age, illness, accident, or even something as simple as dental surgery — it can shake us. We start asking ourselves: Who am I now? Do people see me differently? Am I less worthy, less beautiful, less me? My Tooth Story: Losing My Smile Let me share something personal. Recently, I had to have an adult tooth pulled. And let me tell you, it shook me to my core. I’ve always thought of my smile as one of my defining features. It’s part of my career, part of my stage presence, part of how people know me. When that tooth was gone, suddenly my whole smile felt gone. I looked in the mirror and thought: I’ve lost my smile. I’ve lost me. I started speaking differently, laughing differently, even holding back in conversations. I felt ugly. I felt diminished. I thought everyone who looked at me could only see what I had lost. But here’s the twist — hardly anyone noticed. My kids still saw their mom. My husband still saw me. My friends didn’t blink. What I thought was this glaring flaw was invisible to most people. And that was a huge wake-up call. It showed me how different perception is from reality. We are the ones who obsess over our flaws. Most people are just seeing us — our energy, our presence, our love. Disfigurement and Self-Worth And while my story is “just a tooth,” it’s a reminder of what so many people face when it comes to body changes — scars, amputations, burns, surgeries, illnesses, aging. The emotional toll is real: Anxiety about being judged. Grief for the body we once had. Loss of confidence and self-expression. And yet, the truth is: you are not your scar, your missing piece, or your changing body. You are so much more. Beyond the Body: Career Loss and Identity But identity shifts don’t only happen with our bodies. I’ve lived through it in my career, too. I remember losing jobs I thought would define me. I remember when Broadway wasn’t part of my daily life anymore. For someone who had lived for the stage, the applause, the bright lights — that loss felt like losing part of my soul. I asked myself: Who am I if I’m not Meredith the Broadway actress? Who am I without the stage? It was terrifying. And yet, it was also liberating. Because it forced me to rediscover the truth: that my worth wasn’t in the roles I played. My worth was in me. Motherhood: Identity Rewritten Then came motherhood. Becoming a mom stripped away so much of the old me and rebuilt me into something new. My time, my body, my energy, my dreams — they weren’t just mine anymore. Motherhood cracked me open. It made me raw. It made me strong. It made me vulnerable in ways I didn’t know I could be. There were days I grieved the “old me,” but there were also days I realized the “new me” was so much more powerful. Motherhood showed me how infinite love really is. Moving and Reinventing And let’s talk about moving. Leaving New York and Los Angeles — places that shaped me, places that held my career, my memories — and coming to Montana. At first, it felt like walking away from everything. But moving gave me something unexpected: space. Perspective. Community. Nature. A chance to write new chapters. I learned that home isn’t about the city lights or the stage doors — it’s about love, family, and the life you create right where you are. The Human Condition: Shared Struggles Here’s the thing: none of us get through life unchanged. We all lose things — teeth, jobs, roles, opportunities, even versions of ourselves we thought were permanent. And in every loss, there’s also an invitation. An invitation to grow. To rediscover. To redefine who we are. That’s the human condition. We’re all connected in this cycle of loss and reinvention. How To Heal and Move Forward So how do we combat the stress of change? How do we move forward when the ground feels shaky? Allow yourself to grieve. Whether it’s a tooth, a job, a relationship, or a dream — your grief is valid. Shift your focus. Write affirmations that remind you of your inner worth. I am resilient. I am creative. I am love. Share your story. Shame thrives in silence. Speak it aloud, and you’ll often find compassion instead of judgment. Reclaim your body and your voice. Move. Create. Sing. Dance. Reconnect with what your body can do. Take perspective. Remember: others don’t see you the way you see yourself. They see your light. Final Reflection: The Journey Is the Joy Here’s what I’ve learned through teeth and Broadway, through motherhood and Montana: Life is not a straight line. It’s chapters. It’s seasons. It’s reinvention after reinvention. And every chapter matters. The journey is the joy. Not the perfect smile. Not the perfect career. Not the perfect life plan. The shifting, the growing, the rediscovering — that’s the beauty of it all. So as you walk through your own changes, remember this: ✨ Bliss is your birthright. ✨ Have vision for what you want and be grateful for where you are. That’s the path forward. That’s the joy of being human. And that’s the reminder we all need from time to time. Thank you for letting me share this piece of my heart with you today. If this episode resonated, please share it with someone who might need encouragement. And remember — you are never alone. We are all connected, walking this journey together. Until next time, I’m Meredith Patterson, reminding you that your next chapter is waiting — and it’s going to be beautiful. /episode/index/show/55ccec79-ffcf-4e8e-841e-96dd1bf33225/id/38292990

One Word That Changes Everything 10/03/2025

One Word That Changes Everything Hello, beautiful friends! 🌸 Welcome back to The Meredith Patterson Podcast. I’m Meredith—mom, performer, storyteller, and your resident “Bliss Is Your Birthright” hype woman. In today’s solo episode, I’m inviting you into a practice that looks ordinary but, when held close, has the power to shift your life: one small word. ✨ The word is already. When spoken with intention—and protected in stillness—it becomes a key. A key that unlocks peace, alignment, love, opportunity, and abundance. Not “someday.” Not “if I’m lucky.” But now. Together, we’ll explore how to use this word to: Protect your dreams when they’re still tender 🌱 Shift from “I hope” to “I already” Re-train your nervous system toward calm certainty Create a morning, midday, and evening ritual you can actually keep Set boundaries around what to share and what to protect Replace old doubt-driven language with new affirmations of worth and possibility What You’ll Hear in This Episode Act I: Why we protect what’s sacred and how sharing too soon can shake your flame. Act II: The power of the word already and why it softens your nervous system. Act IV: A simple daily practice (Morning • Midday • Night) to anchor the word into your life. Act VII: Real-life “language swaps” that move you from lack to alignment. Act VIII: Gentle affirmations that remind you—you are already enough. Act XI: A 7-Day Challenge to bring already into your daily rhythm. Quick Reference Keyword: Already = completion, alignment, calm action Rituals: Morning (5 min) • Mid day • Night (3 min) Affirmations: Choose 3 (see Act VIII) Challenge: 7 days of “already” + one action you’ve delayed Your Invitation Friend, you don’t need to hustle your soul into worthiness. You are already worthy. Let this little word be your daily doorway back to that truth. Take a breath with me. Inhale. Exhale. Whisper: Already. If this episode encouraged you, please: Share it with a friend who’s learning to trust their timing Subscribe, rate, and review the show (it helps so much!) Come say hi on Instagram & 💎 For deeper tools, explore my Bliss Is Your Birthright resources coming soon on Patreon. ✨ Remember: Protect what’s sacred, choose the quiet power, and hold this truth close… you are already enough. /episode/index/show/55ccec79-ffcf-4e8e-841e-96dd1bf33225/id/38292930

#MentalHealthMonday - Your Feelings Are Welcome, The Behavior Is Not 09/29/2025

#MentalHealthMonday - Your Feelings Are Welcome, The Behavior Is Not #MentalHealthMonday - Your Feelings Are Welcome, The Behavior Is Not Hi friends—welcome back to The Meredith Patterson Podcast. I’m Meredith, and today we’re diving into a powerful mindset and practice that can change how you lead, love, and live: “Your feelings are welcome. The behavior is not.” Here’s what I mean. All feelings are valid. Anger, jealousy, grief, shame, joy, excitement—every emotion is a messenger. But while feelings deserve room at the table, not every behavior gets a seat. There is a time and a place, and our job as adults is to feel fully and choose our actions wisely. This episode is not medical advice; it’s education and support. Take what serves you, and talk to a professional if you need more personalized care. Feelings vs. Urges vs. Behavior Let’s separate three things we often blur together: Feeling: the internal experience—tight chest, heat in the face, sadness behind the eyes. Urge: the impulse that follows—slam the door, send the text, shut down. Behavior: the action you actually take—or don’t take. Key truth: Feelings aren’t problems to fix; they’re signals to listen to. Urges are temporary waves. Behavior is the part you control. A helpful reframe: “My anger is welcome; yelling is not.” Or, “My anxiety is welcome; avoidance and ghosting are not.” Why We “Flip”—a quick brain primer When we feel threatened or overwhelmed, our brain’s alarm system fires. Concentration narrows, and impulse control drops. That’s why good people sometimes do unhelpful things. It’s not a character flaw—it’s a nervous system in overdrive. So the move is not to shame the feeling—it’s to regulate the body so the thinking brain comes back online, and you can choose behavior you’re proud of. The 60–90 Second Reset Menu Before you respond, regulate. Try one of these quick resets and pick your favorite for the week: Physiological sigh: two small inhales through the nose, one long exhale through the mouth. Repeat 3–5 times. Name it to tame it: “I’m noticing anger and a fast heartbeat.” Labeling helps the intensity drop. Move it: brisk walk, 10 wall pushups, shake out hands and jaw for 60 seconds. Cold water splash or cool compress on the back of your neck or palms. Box breath: inhale 4, hold 4, exhale 4, hold 4 (four rounds). You’re telling your system: “We’re safe. We can choose.” The F-A-C-T-S Framework (feel → choose → act) Here’s a simple flow you can keep on your phone: F — Feel it. Where is it in your body? Heat, tension, fluttering? A — Allow it. “This feeling is allowed.” No arguing with your own biology. C — Clarify the need. What is this emotion protecting or asking for—respect, rest, reassurance, repair? T — Time & place. Decide when/where to address it. Now, later today, or tomorrow at 10? S — Skillful behavior. Choose the action that honors your value and the relationship. Behavior Boundaries—your “Always/Never” list Create a tiny code of conduct for heated moments. Keep it short and visible. Always: Speak in “I” statements. Ask for a pause if flooded. Return to finish the conversation. Never: Name-calling, sarcasm, or threats. Text-fighting big topics. Bringing up past conflicts to score points. Post this where you’ll see it—fridge, notes app, studio wall. Scripts You Can Use When you’re flooded: “I want to handle this well. I’m too activated to do that right now. I’m going to take 20 minutes and come back at 6:30.” With a partner or friend: “My feelings are loud and I care about us. I’m going to press pause so I don’t say something I’ll regret. Can we revisit after dinner?” At work: “I’m committed to solving this. I need a beat to think clearly. Let’s regroup at 2:00 with two options on the table.” With a child/teen: “It’s okay to feel angry. It’s not okay to throw. Let’s stomp our feet together for 10 seconds, then use words.” Self-talk: “My jealousy wants attention. I’m not going to scroll-spy. I’m going to take a walk and then ask for reassurance directly.” After a Misstep—Repair in 3 Steps We’re human. When behavior slips, repair ASAP: Own it: “I raised my voice. That’s on me.” Name the impact: “That probably felt scary/disrespectful.” State the plan: “Next time I’ll pause and text, ‘I need 20 minutes.’ Can we try again?” Repair doesn’t erase—but it rebuilds trust. Micro-Practices that Build the Muscle Daily 2-minute reps: Body scan + label: “Tight chest—anxiety.” Hand to heart, 3 slow breaths. Journaling prompt: “Right now I feel ____. It’s here to tell me ____.” Behavior rehearsal: Visualize your next hard moment and practice your pause line out loud. Connection: Send one honest, kind text. Co-regulation is real. Weekly 10-minute check-in: What feeling showed up most? What boundary did I keep? Where did I slip? What’s my one cue for next week? (Alarm label, sticky note, lock screen.) Common Traps & Gentle Reframes Trap: “If I allow this feeling, it’ll take over.” Reframe: Feelings pass faster when acknowledged than when suppressed. Trap: “If I don’t react, I’m weak.” Reframe: Pausing is not passivity; it’s precision. Trap: “They made me behave this way.” Reframe: Others can trigger; only you choose behavior. Challenge & Call to Action Here’s your one-week challenge: Write your ‘Always/Never’ list and share it with one person who can cheer you on. Choose one reset from the menu and practice it daily—even when calm. Pick a pause sentence and save it as a phone snippet. Use it once this week. If this episode helped, share it with someone who might need language for big feelings and better choices. Tag me so I can celebrate your wins. And remember—Bliss is your birthright. When you welcome your feelings and lead your behavior, you protect your peace and your relationships. Thank you for listening to The Meredith Patterson Podcast. If you want the printable “FACTS Framework” and my sample scripts, check the show notes. I’m proud of you. /episode/index/show/55ccec79-ffcf-4e8e-841e-96dd1bf33225/id/38292970

Lifting the Veil – A Conversation with Dustin Brayley for Suicide Awareness Month 09/26/2025

Lifting the Veil – A Conversation with Dustin Brayley for Suicide Awareness Month Hello, beautiful friends, and welcome back to The Meredith Patterson Podcast. I’m your host, Meredith, and today I’m joined by someone who means the world to me — my husband of almost 14 years, the father of our two boys, and an extraordinary talent you may know from the Trans-Siberian Orchestra and countless performances around the world — Dustin Brayley. BIO Dustin Brayley is a powerhouse vocalist and performer whose career spans Broadway, national tours, and international stages. With a voice that blends rock grit and soulful warmth, he has captivated audiences worldwide as a featured vocalist with the Trans-Siberian Orchestra and in headlining concerts across the U.S. and abroad. Beyond the stage, Dustin is a songwriter and storyteller who believes music has the power to heal, uplift, and connect. His performances are marked not only by vocal brilliance but also by a deep authenticity that leaves audiences moved and inspired. At home in Montana, Dustin is a devoted husband to actress and producer Meredith Patterson and a proud father of their two boys. Family fuels his artistry, and every song he sings carries the heart of a man who values kindness, resilience, and the joy of making people feel truly seen. You can connect with Dustin and follow his journey at and on Instagram and TikTok @dustinbrayley. Dustin, thank you for your honesty and courage in sharing this part of your story. It’s not easy, but I know it will help people listening today feel less alone. Friends, if you or someone you love is struggling, please know there is help. In the U.S., you can dial 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, available 24 hours a day. You are not alone, and reaching out is a brave and powerful first step. By lifting the veil and telling the truth, we honor the lives of those we’ve lost and help create a future where shame and silence no longer keep people from getting the support they need. Thank you for joining us for this important conversation. /episode/index/show/55ccec79-ffcf-4e8e-841e-96dd1bf33225/id/38267965

#MentalHealthMonday - Therapy Bro: Redefining Masculinity 09/22/2025

#MentalHealthMonday - Therapy Bro: Redefining Masculinity Welcome back to Mental Health Monday on The Meredith Patterson Podcast. I’m Meredith Patterson. Today’s episode is all about a movement I’m calling ‘Therapy Bro’: how men are stepping into therapy like never before—and in doing so, reshaping what it means to be masculine today. Let’s dive in. The Cultural Shift In 2025, something remarkable is unfolding. A new cultural moment dubbed therapy bro summer is making headlines—men are increasingly seeking mental health support, breaking long-standing stigmas around emotional vulnerability. This isn’t just lip service; for many, therapy has become a relationship-building tool, a form of self-respect, and a marker of emotional maturity. Experts note that ‘emotional intelligence’ is now seen as a green flag in dating—strength isn’t hiding your struggles, but healing through them. Research supports this shift. A 2025 wellness report found that 95% of men now prioritize mental health, and the men’s self-care industry has ballooned into a $90 billion+ market. Spaces like barbershops and fitness centers are evolving into informal mental wellness hubs. From Stigma to Strength For a long time, traditional masculine norms—emphasizing stoicism, self-reliance, toughness—kept many men from seeking help. Studies show that these norms create real barriers to mental healthcare, even though nearly 1 in 10 men experience depression or anxiety. Less than half get treatment. Meanwhile, men are four times more likely than women to die by suicide. But that’s changing. Men who choose therapy today are flipping the script—showing that emotional strength means connection, awareness, and courage. Community and Connection It’s not just therapy. Peer-led support groups and male-focused coaching are booming. In the UK, Andy’s Man Club now hosts over 240 groups with more than 5,700 participants weekly—simple gatherings where men talk honestly over a brew, guided by prompts: ‘How’s your week been?’ ‘Something good?’ ‘Need to get something off your chest?’ It’s helping reduce isolation, one chat at a time. And in-person touchpoints are growing too. Men's talking circles—where guys take turns sharing in a safe space—have proven profoundly therapeutic. Participants leave feeling lighter, clearer, seen. Meanwhile, life coaches like Ben Bidwell and Bryan Reeves are stepping in as emotionally intelligent guides. Rising above the divisive manosphere, they offer mentorship rooted in authenticity and emotional fulfillment—not dominance or anger. These coaches are reaching men who are quietly craving connection and introspection. What It Means for Us All What does this surge in male therapy and emotional openness mean—for men and for the world? Stronger relationships. Men who understand and share their feelings build deeper bonds—with partners, children, and friends. Breaking cycles. Emotional work dismantles generational patterns of repression and disconnection. Healthier communities. When men model vulnerability, they create environments where everyone can feel safe to heal. Redefining strength. Therapy isn’t a weakness—it’s a brave act. A self-care practice, like any physical training, for the mind and heart. And this isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress. Every conversation, every therapy session, every talking circle nudges us all closer to a more emotionally healthy society. Call to Action So here’s my challenge for you this week: If you’re a man, consider taking that first step—look up a therapist, join a men’s group, or even just share honestly with someone you trust. If you know a man, encourage him. Let him know therapy is strength, not shame. And whether you’re seeking emotional honesty or offering it—you’re part of a cultural shift worth celebrating. Thank you for tuning in to this Mental Health Monday. If this episode moved you, share it with someone you care about. Remember—vulnerability is courageous, and healing starts with a single word. Until next time, I’m Meredith Patterson—take care of your heart, your mind, and each other. /episode/index/show/55ccec79-ffcf-4e8e-841e-96dd1bf33225/id/38064360

Connecting on Huntington’s Disease with Lauren Holder - Founder and Host of Help 4 HD Live! 09/19/2025

Connecting on Huntington’s Disease with Lauren Holder - Founder and Host of Help 4 HD Live! Welcome to today’s episode of The Meredith Patterson Podcast. This one is close to my heart because we’re talking about Huntington’s disease—something I have a family connection to—and we’re doing so during Suicide Awareness Month. Suicide rates among people living with Huntington’s, or even those who’ve simply tested positive for the gene, are among the highest in the world. Today, we’re going to talk openly about this reality, about resilience, and about hope. Joining me is someone who has dedicated her life to this mission: Lauren Holder. She is the host and producer of Help 4 HD Live!, the first international radio show for the Huntington’s community, and an advocate who has walked this path herself. Lauren, welcome. Part 1: Lauren’s Journey Into Advocacy You’ve been part of the HD community for many years, both as a caregiver to your father and as someone who tested for the gene yourself. Can you share what led you to take that test so young, and how that decision shaped your journey? Many of us who love someone with HD experience years of anticipatory grief—watching symptoms develop in a parent or sibling. What was that like for you as a young woman stepping into a caregiver role for your dad? After time away from advocacy, you stepped into producing Help 4 HD Live! in 2018. What pulled you back into this space, and what does it mean to you personally to carry these stories forward? Part 2: Mental Health and Suicide Awareness Suicide Awareness Month is such an important reminder, especially in the HD community where suicide rates can be up to 10 times higher than the national average. When you think about those numbers, how does that land for you emotionally—as both an advocate and someone personally impacted? What do you believe are the biggest factors driving these high rates of depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation in the HD population? For someone who has just tested positive for the gene, that reality can feel like a heavy weight. What are the first things you think they need to hear, and what conversations should we as a community be having with them? Part 3: Staying Grounded and Positive You’ve talked about the importance of self-care, even in small daily rituals. Can you share what grounds you—whether that’s time with your kids, connecting with nature, or simply giving yourself space to feel? Advocacy work can be both healing and draining. How do you balance the emotional toll of telling these stories with the joy and purpose it brings you? Do you ever find yourself overwhelmed by the weight of HD, and if so, what helps you shift back into hope? Part 4: Breaking Stigma and Building Community Mental health still carries stigma, and in HD families, it can feel like one more thing to hide. How do you use your platform on Help 4 HD Live! to break that silence and create a judgment-free space? From your perspective, what role does community—whether through support groups, peer connections, or just having someone to talk to—play in sustaining resilience? What would you say to listeners who might be struggling right now—either living with HD, caring for someone, or just feeling alone in the journey? Part 5: Looking Ahead You’ve said before that this work gives you purpose. When you look toward the future, what’s the vision you hold—for yourself, for Help 4 HD Live!, and for the HD community at large? What gives you hope when you think about the generations who will come after us, who may be carrying this gene? Lauren, thank you for sharing your heart with us today. Your honesty, your compassion, and your commitment to keeping these conversations alive are such a gift to this community. And to everyone listening: if you or someone you love is struggling, please know you are not alone. In the U.S., you can call or text 988 to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. For Huntington’s-specific support, visit hdsa.org or Help 4 HD Live! at . This conversation doesn’t end here—let’s keep reaching out, keep supporting one another, and keep holding on to hope. If this episode resonated with you please share it with your community, like, subscribe, download and write a 5 star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. It all helps us get the word out into the world and create a positive ripple effect. Bliss Is Your Birthright Have vision for what you want and be grateful for where you are every single day. Thank you for listening /episode/index/show/55ccec79-ffcf-4e8e-841e-96dd1bf33225/id/38064585

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