DrKatinaTalks

Dr. Katina Talks is the podcast that empowers you to live a more fulfilling, balanced, and authentic life. Hosted by Dr. Katina, a licensed mental health counselor, life coach, and social psychologist, this show dives into real-life stories, personal growth strategies, and psychology-backed insights that help you navigate the challenges of everyday life. Whether you're seeking inspiration to overcome fear, heal from past trauma, or discover your true purpose, Dr. Katina's thoughtful guidance and powerful anecdotes will encourage you to embrace the journey of living your best life. Tune in every Tuesday for a new episode filled with practical wisdom to inspire positive change.

Reinventing Yourself: What Tina Turner Teaches Us About Strength, Healing, and Starting Over 11/25/2025

Make Room for What’s Next: What We Carry Without Realizing 11/18/2025

Where You Look Is Where You’ll Go: Learning to Let Go of the Past and Focus Forward 11/11/2025

The Gift of Gratitude: Finding Joy in Ordinary Moments 11/04/2025

The Gift of Gratitude: Finding Joy in Ordinary Moments In this heartfelt episode of Dr. Katina Talks, Dr. Katina shares a deeply emotional and insightful journey into understanding gratitude beyond just a list of things to be thankful for. She recounts a poignant experience at a grocery store where she observed a moment of pure, unfiltered joy between two sisters. This leads her to reflect on her father's life, his struggles with addiction and homelessness, and the dignity he found in his work at a grocery store. Through her reflections, Dr. Katina discusses how gratitude humbles us, transforms comparison into compassion, reconciles us with our own bodies and stories, and anchors us in presence—even when it hurts. She emphasizes that real gratitude lies in seeing life's grace in ordinary places and moments, teaching us that being grateful reshapes our identity and reframes our experiences. Dr. Katina invites listeners to view their own lives through the lens of gratitude, recognizing the grace interwoven in their personal journeys. 00:00 Introduction and Personal Struggles 00:39 A Touching Encounter at the Grocery Store 02:44 Reflections on My Father 05:49 Lessons on Gratitude 07:10 Five Key Takeaways on Gratitude 10:00 Final Thoughts and Farewell Social Media Disclaimer: This podcast is hosted by a licensed counselor and life coach. All content is for informational and educational purposes only and does not replace professional counseling, therapy, coaching, or medical advice. Listening to this podcast or completing exercises in the journal does not establish a counselor–client or coach–client relationship. If you need personalized guidance or want to schedule a counseling (Delaware Location Only) or Life Coaching session, please visit . This podcast is not monitored for crisis or emergency situations. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, experiencing severe distress, or in a life-threatening situation, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department. By listening or subscribing, you acknowledge and accept these terms. For more Podcast info and free Journal Prompts, visit /episode/index/show/bba60177-b911-4dbb-a6a2-17bc58e5a45a/id/38886190

Freedom from Criticism: How to Stop People-Pleasing and Start Living Free 10/28/2025

Freedom from Criticism: How to Stop People-Pleasing and Start Living Free In this episode of Dr. Katina Talks, host Dr. Katina discusses the pervasive nature of criticism and the deep-seated need for approval that many individuals experience. She shares personal anecdotes and insights on how one's formative experiences often tie worth to approval, leading to a lifetime of people pleasing. Listeners are encouraged to reframe critical voices, understand what criticism reveals about others, and prioritize their own peace and purpose over external validation. Dr. Katina provides five key takeaways to help individuals navigate criticism, live authentically, and find freedom beyond seeking approval. The episode concludes with a powerful reminder: true freedom comes from trusting your own direction, not performing for others. 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Katina Talks 00:29 The Roots of People Pleasing 01:22 Impactful Stories and Shared Experiences 02:29 Understanding and Reframing Criticism 03:16 Five Key Takeaways for Handling Criticism 07:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Social Media Disclaimer: This podcast is hosted by a licensed counselor and life coach. All content is for informational and educational purposes only and does not replace professional counseling, therapy, coaching, or medical advice. Listening to this podcast or completing exercises in the journal does not establish a counselor–client or coach–client relationship. If you need personalized guidance or want to schedule a counseling (Delaware Location Only) or Life Coaching session, please visit . This podcast is not monitored for crisis or emergency situations. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, experiencing severe distress, or in a life-threatening situation, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department. By listening or subscribing, you acknowledge and accept these terms. For more Podcast info and free Journal Prompts, visit /episode/index/show/bba60177-b911-4dbb-a6a2-17bc58e5a45a/id/38803415

Live Your Why: Find Purpose & Balance in Your Career & Life 10/21/2025

Live Your Why: Find Purpose & Balance in Your Career & Life Live Your Why: Find Purpose & Balance in Your Career & Life In this episode of Dr. Katina Talks, host Dr. Katina explores the essential concept of 'why' - the inner reason that gives meaning to our choices and actions. Reflecting on a pivotal question posed by a friend during her trip to Ghana, she delves deeply into her personal why and encourages listeners to do the same. Through five reflective points, Dr. Katina discusses the importance of paying attention to misalignments, revisiting childhood passions, recognizing moments of aliveness, redefining success, and allowing our why to evolve with us. This episode is a compassionate guide designed to help individuals reconnect with their purpose, joy, and peace, even within their existing circumstances. 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Katina Talks 00:11 Understanding Your Why 01:04 A Life-Changing Question 02:23 Personal Reflections and Podcast Purpose 04:18 Finding Purpose in Everyday Life 05:33 Five Reflections for Realignment 08:52 Conclusion and Invitation to Reflect Social Media Disclaimer: This podcast is hosted by a licensed counselor and life coach. All content is for informational and educational purposes only and does not replace professional counseling, therapy, coaching, or medical advice. Listening to this podcast or completing exercises in the journal does not establish a counselor–client or coach–client relationship. If you need personalized guidance or want to schedule a counseling (Delaware Location Only) or Life Coaching session, please visit . This podcast is not monitored for crisis or emergency situations. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, experiencing severe distress, or in a life-threatening situation, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department. By listening or subscribing, you acknowledge and accept these terms. For more Podcast info and free Journal Prompts, visit /episode/index/show/bba60177-b911-4dbb-a6a2-17bc58e5a45a/id/38640020

The Cost of Silence: How to Ask for What You Need in Love & Life 10/14/2025

The Cost of Silence: How to Ask for What You Need in Love & Life The Cost of Silence: How to Ask for What You Need in Love & Life Why is it so easy to send back a steak at a restaurant, but so difficult to tell the people we love what we really need? In this episode of Dr. Katina Talks, I share a story from my own marriage, 20 years of cooking string beans before I learned my husband never liked them, and how that moment became a powerful metaphor for silence, sacrifice, and unspoken needs. We’ll explore: Why are we often responsible for silencing our own needs Why hints and side comments aren’t enough (and why people can’t “just know”) How resentment grows when we hide behind strength and service Why asking for time, attention, or affection isn’t a weakness but true intimacy Five powerful truths that will set you free to voice your needs This episode is a reminder that asking is not selfish. It’s sacred. When we speak our needs out loud, we give the people we love a roadmap to care for us, and we allow love to expand in ways silence never could. Tune in, take the challenge, and start practicing the freedom of your voice. 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Katina Talks 00:09 A Story About String Beans and Marriage 01:23 The Revelation: 20 Years of String Beans 02:32 The Cost of Silencing Our Needs 03:13 Five Powerful Truths About Finding Your Voice 06:05 The Challenge: Speak Up and Be Heard 07:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Social Media Disclaimer: This podcast is hosted by a licensed counselor and life coach. All content is for informational and educational purposes only and does not replace professional counseling, therapy, coaching, or medical advice. Listening to this podcast or completing exercises in the journal does not establish a counselor–client or coach–client relationship. If you need personalized guidance or want to schedule a counseling (Delaware Location Only) or Life Coaching session, please visit . This podcast is not monitored for crisis or emergency situations. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, experiencing severe distress, or in a life-threatening situation, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department. By listening or subscribing, you acknowledge and accept these terms. For more Podcast info and free Journal Prompts, visit /episode/index/show/bba60177-b911-4dbb-a6a2-17bc58e5a45a/id/38451035

What Forgiveness Really Means (and What It Doesn’t) 10/07/2025

What Forgiveness Really Means (and What It Doesn’t) The Power of Forgiveness: Healing from Childhood Trauma In this episode of Dr. Katina Talks, Dr. Katina shares a deeply personal story of her challenging childhood and the journey towards forgiveness. She recounts experiences of family trauma, emotional neglect, and abuse, emphasizing how these early challenges shaped her life and professional path. Dr. Katina discusses the complex process of forgiveness, explaining how it is essential for personal healing and growth. She highlights five key takeaways about forgiveness, emphasizing that it is not about excusing or forgetting the wrongs done, but freeing oneself from their lingering impact. This episode encourages listeners to explore their own journeys toward forgiveness and understanding as a means to lead a more balanced and fulfilling life. 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Katina Talks 00:36 A Childhood of Hidden Trauma 02:16 The Turning Point: Leaving Home 04:50 The Impact of Early Trauma on Adult Life 06:44 The Power of Forgiveness 07:26 Five Key Takeaways on Forgiveness 10:33 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Social Media Disclaimer: This podcast is hosted by a licensed counselor and life coach. All content is for informational and educational purposes only and does not replace professional counseling, therapy, coaching, or medical advice. Listening to this podcast or completing exercises in the journal does not establish a counselor–client or coach–client relationship. If you need personalized guidance or want to schedule a counseling (Delaware Location Only) or Life Coaching session, please visit . This podcast is not monitored for crisis or emergency situations. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, experiencing severe distress, or in a life-threatening situation, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department. By listening or subscribing, you acknowledge and accept these terms. For more Podcast info and free Journal Prompts, visit /episode/index/show/bba60177-b911-4dbb-a6a2-17bc58e5a45a/id/38380645

Don’t Be a Dot: Why You Keep Helping Everyone But Yourself 09/30/2025

Don’t Be a Dot: Why You Keep Helping Everyone But Yourself Don't Be a Dot: Why you Keep Helping Everyone But Yourself In this episode of Dr. Katina Talks, we kick off season two with a discussion on the importance of self-care while helping others, inspired by the character Dorothy from 'The Wiz'. Dr. Katina explores the concept of 'avoidance through caretaking' and shares a story about Dorothy (or 'Dot') who focuses on everyone else's needs while neglecting her own. Drawing parallels to real life, she offers five practical takeaways to help individuals prioritize their own well-being: checking your own energy levels, balancing pep talks for others with self-encouragement, sitting with one's own needs, identifying personal goals, and taking proactive steps towards self-fulfillment. The episode concludes with a reminder that while it's essential to support others, it shouldn't come at the cost of one's own wholeness. A free companion journal and meditation for further reflection are available on Dr. Katina's website. 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Katina Talks 00:28 The Story of Dot: A Broadway Insight 01:16 Dot's Encounters: Tin Man, Scarecrow, and Lion 05:12 The Psychology Behind 'Dot Behavior' 06:02 Five Key Takeaways for Self-Care 07:46 Conclusion: Don't Be a Dot Social Media Disclaimer: This podcast is hosted by a licensed counselor and life coach. All content is for informational and educational purposes only and does not replace professional counseling, therapy, coaching, or medical advice. Listening to this podcast or completing exercises in the journal does not establish a counselor–client or coach–client relationship. If you need personalized guidance or want to schedule a counseling (Delaware Location Only) or Life Coaching session, please visit . This podcast is not monitored for crisis or emergency situations. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, experiencing severe distress, or in a life-threatening situation, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department. By listening or subscribing, you acknowledge and accept these terms. For more Podcast info and free Journal Prompts, visit /episode/index/show/bba60177-b911-4dbb-a6a2-17bc58e5a45a/id/38380465

This is Why I have to Tell Our Story: Season Finale 06/17/2025

My Love Letter For The Season: Time to Rest, Reflect, & Revise 06/10/2025

Shay: The Girl in the Window 06/03/2025

Life Doesn't Move in A Straight Line 05/27/2025

When strength Becomes A shield 05/27/2025

Boundaries and Balance: The Dance of Self-Care 05/13/2025

Boundaries and Balance: The Dance of Self-Care In this episode of Dr. Katina Talks, host Dr. Katina discusses the significance of self-care and the importance of reciprocal relationships. She shares a personal story about the necessity of taking sick days and the guilt that often accompanies this choice. Dr. Katina emphasizes that both physical and emotional rest are crucial for well-being. She also highlights the value of reciprocal friendships through her interactions with three friends, revealing the lessons she learned about boundaries and mutual support. The episode concludes with five key takeaways for fostering a balanced and fulfilling life. Listeners are encouraged to embrace self-care, recognize their needs, set healthy boundaries, value mutual support, and nurture meaningful relationships. 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Katina Talks 00:36 The Importance of Self-Care 01:56 A Week of Self-Care and Realizations 03:43 The Power of Reciprocal Relationships 04:10 Lessons from Friends 07:10 Five Key Takeaways for a Balanced Life 08:05 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Social Media Disclaimer: This podcast is hosted by a licensed counselor and life coach. All content is for informational and educational purposes only and does not replace professional counseling, therapy, coaching, or medical advice. Listening to this podcast or completing exercises in the journal does not establish a counselor–client or coach–client relationship. If you need personalized guidance or want to schedule a counseling (Delaware Location Only) or Life Coaching session, please visit . This podcast is not monitored for crisis or emergency situations. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, experiencing severe distress, or in a life-threatening situation, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department. By listening or subscribing, you acknowledge and accept these terms. /episode/index/show/bba60177-b911-4dbb-a6a2-17bc58e5a45a/id/36323530

Embracing the Now: Living in the Moment 05/05/2025

Embracing the Now: Living in the Moment Living Fully: Embracing the Present with Dr. Katina In this episode of Dr. Katina Talks, Dr. Katina shares a personal story about a life-changing moment that taught her the importance of living in the moment. After recovering from surgery and experiencing a near-fatal situation, she realized the fragility of life and the significance of cherishing each breath. Dr. Katina offers five practical invitations to help listeners live more fully and intentionally: starting the day with gratitude, engaging the senses, giving focused attention, expressing affection audibly, and celebrating everyday luxuries. She emphasizes that living fully and gratefully starts now, not tomorrow. The episode concludes with a reminder to savor every moment and appreciate the beauty of life. Listeners are encouraged to visit drkatinatalks.com for a free companion journal to reflect on and deepen their practice of presence. 00:00 Introduction and Today's Question 00:27 A Life-Changing Experience 05:00 Living in the Moment: Practical Tips 07:51 Reflections and Final Thoughts 09:50 Conclusion and Invitations Social Media Disclaimer: This podcast is hosted by a licensed counselor and life coach. All content is for informational and educational purposes only and does not replace professional counseling, therapy, coaching, or medical advice. Listening to this podcast or completing exercises in the journal does not establish a counselor–client or coach–client relationship. If you need personalized guidance or want to schedule a counseling (Delaware Location Only) or Life Coaching session, please visit . This podcast is not monitored for crisis or emergency situations. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, experiencing severe distress, or in a life-threatening situation, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department. By listening or subscribing, you acknowledge and accept these terms. /episode/index/show/bba60177-b911-4dbb-a6a2-17bc58e5a45a/id/36431160

The Dingy Wonder Woman Bra: Healing Old Wounds with New Perspectives 04/29/2025

The Dingy Wonder Woman Bra: Healing Old Wounds with New Perspectives In this episode of Dr. Katina Talks, host Dr. Katina shares a poignant childhood story from her upbringing in Camden, New Jersey, highlighting how a single painful moment can have lasting effects on self-perception and behavior into adulthood. Dr. Katina recounts how a comment about her favorite dingy Wonder Woman bra left her feeling inadequate and led to lifelong overcompensation in her self-image and habits. Through her story, she reflects on the importance of kindness, the lingering impact of childhood wounds, and the need to address and heal these early experiences. Dr. Katina encourages listeners to identify their own formative moments and offers five reflections for healing and understanding oneself. She also provides a free journal entry for deeper self-exploration, emphasizing the power of rewriting one's narrative with truth and compassion @ DrKatinaTalks.com. Show Notes: Unseen Moments: Healing Childhood Wounds In this episode of 'Dr. Katina Talks,' Dr. Katina shares a poignant story from her childhood in Camden, New Jersey, illustrating how a single painful moment can shape one's self-perception. Through her narrative, she emphasizes the lasting impact of childhood shame and the importance of understanding and healing these early wounds. Dr. Katina provides five reflections to guide listeners in addressing their own moments of childhood shame, encouraging compassion and the rewriting of past narratives for personal growth. She concludes by offering a companion journal entry to help listeners on their journey of healing. 00:00 Introduction and Childhood Setting 00:34 Life in Camden: Struggles and Community 03:00 The Impact of a Hurtful Comment 04:59 Reflections on Childhood Shame 06:15 Five Reflections for Healing 08:07 Conclusion and Call to Action Social Media Disclaimer: This podcast is hosted by a licensed counselor and life coach. All content is for informational and educational purposes only and does not replace professional counseling, therapy, coaching, or medical advice. Listening to this podcast or completing exercises in the journal does not establish a counselor–client or coach–client relationship. If you need personalized guidance or want to schedule a counseling (Delaware Location Only) or Life Coaching session, please visit . This podcast is not monitored for crisis or emergency situations. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, experiencing severe distress, or in a life-threatening situation, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department. By listening or subscribing, you acknowledge and accept these terms. /episode/index/show/bba60177-b911-4dbb-a6a2-17bc58e5a45a/id/36302670

You are Enough: Doing The Best With What You Have 04/22/2025

Embrace Fear_v2 04/16/2025

DrKatinaTalks

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