Embracing Authenticity and Healing: A Journey Back to Self

By Kristin – Everything is for You Podcast

After a five-month hiatus, I’m back and excited to share my journey of personal growth, authenticity, and healing. It’s been an intense time of self-reflection, challenging lessons, and rediscovery. And honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way. Today, I’m joined by my dear friend Jessica Pappas, a fellow seeker, brilliant writer, and all-around wise soul. Together, we’re diving deep into what it means to live authentically, face challenges head-on, and heal from the inside out.

Coming Back After the Break

Five months may not seem like a long time, but in those five months, I’ve been through it. I took a break from the podcast because something wasn’t clicking. It wasn’t just about imposter syndrome (though that was part of it); it was about feeling disconnected from the passion I’d always had for what I do. I had to step back, figure out what was real, and reflect on who I am now.

It was during this time that I wrestled with the idea of ego death—a concept that kept popping up in my life. Let me be clear: I didn’t think about “killing” my ego, but rather, learning how to live in harmony with it. The ego, for better or worse, is part of who we are. But as I’ve grown, I’ve realized I’m less driven by my ego and more by a deeper sense of purpose.

The Struggle with Imposter Syndrome

During this hiatus, I faced a wave of self-doubt that I hadn’t felt before. Who was I to get on a microphone and talk about healing when I was still going through my own healing process? I questioned whether I was equipped to help others, which is why I hesitated to return.

It took time to realize that this is exactly when I should speak up—because I’m still in the trenches, learning every day. As Jessica reminded me, "When you’re being honest with yourself, that’s when you help others heal." And that’s what this podcast is about—giving voice to the journey, not just the destination.

Rediscovering the Power of Now

The lessons of these past months have brought me back to one fundamental truth: there’s only this present moment. The past is gone, the future is unknown, but right now is where we live. The idea of “living in the now” has been transformative for me, not just in my personal life but in how I approach the podcast.

Previously, I was so focused on structuring every conversation and ensuring we covered every topic. But now, I’m allowing conversations to flow organically. There’s freedom in letting go of control and trusting that being present will guide the conversation exactly where it needs to go.

Memory and Our Stories

One of the most fascinating topics Jessica and I discuss is the nature of memory. I shared a memory from when I was five years old—a memory of being at peace while swimming at the bottom of a pool. Yet, when I asked my mom about it, she didn’t remember it happening. It made me question: how much of our memory is real, and how much of it is the story we tell ourselves?

Jessica had a similar experience while writing her memoir, where her memories didn’t always align with her family’s recollections. But as she put it, “It’s my story, my perspective.” And that’s the truth for all of us—our memories are the stories we carry, whether or not they match someone else’s version. What matters is how those stories shape our lives now.

Finding and Letting Go

A recurring lesson in my life, and one that I’m still learning, is how to let go—especially of the people I love. I used to believe that if I cared enough, I could keep them in my life, even when things weren’t working. But I’ve come to realize that loving someone doesn’t mean you have to hold on. Sometimes, real love means letting go with kindness and grace.

It took me a long time to treat myself with the respect I deserve in relationships. I used to accept things I shouldn’t have, out of love or loyalty, but now I know that love isn’t about sacrificing your own worth. I’m proud of how far I’ve come in this regard, and it’s a lesson I’m continuing to work on as I move forward.

The Power of Healing and Growth

The conversations I’ve had with Jessica, and with myself, over these past few months have reminded me that healing is a constant journey. We never stop growing, never stop learning. And that’s the beauty of life—there’s always something new to discover, whether it’s about ourselves, our relationships, or our purpose.

So, as I continue this podcast, I do so with renewed energy and a deeper sense of authenticity. I’m excited to have these conversations, to share these stories, and to be part of a community that’s dedicated to living fully and healing authentically.

Final Thoughts

I’m so grateful to be back, to have guests like Jessica who bring so much wisdom and insight, and to have a platform where we can dive into the messy, beautiful reality of growth and healing. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that everything—every experience, every challenge—is for us, not against us. And it’s all part of the journey towards becoming the best versions of ourselves.

I hope you’ll join me for more conversations on Everything is for You. Until then, remember to stay present, stay open, and keep growing.