The Karen Kenney Show

Latest Episodes:

YOU MUST BE WHAT YOU ARE Oct 30, 2025

Show notes

On this episode of The Karen Kenney Show, I talk about why it matters so much to just be who you are - no matter what’s going on around you.

Inspired by a quote from Marcus Aurelius in Ryan Holiday's book “The Daily Stoic,” I dive into the idea that we’re all here to show our true colors and do our own jobs as only we can.

Whether you’re making salad for an event or just showing up for your day-to-day, how you do the little things will reveal the kind of person you are.

I share a story about preparing food with love and care, even when the people eating it might not notice the extra effort.

For me, what matters isn’t the approval of others, but knowing I’ve put my heart attention into what I do.

My sweetie, Chris - who’s a professional musician - is the same way.

Whether he’s playing on stage in front of thousands or performing for a tiny crowd – he’s going to give it his all!

It’s a reminder to stay committed to our internal values, whatever the external circumstances.

We also explore how actions speak way louder than words. People really get to know what you stand for by watching what you do - not just by listening to what you say.

This goes for parenting, relationships, or any situation where integrity is put to the test.

Just because someone else might cut corners, slack off, or not care - it doesn’t mean that you should change how you would normally choose to show up.

I wrap things up by inviting you to try a little spiritual practice of self-observationwithout judgment!

For example… if someone followed you around for a week, what story would your actions tell? What would they come to understand that you believe - based on what you do?

The challenge is to stay true to yourself, keep growing, and as always, to leave every person, place, and animal a little better than how you found them! ❤️

KK’S KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Be true to who you are and let your actions reflect your real values, no matter what others are doing.

• Focus on doing your job to the best of your ability, even when it seems like nobody else notices or cares.

• Your actions speak louder than your words and people will come to know what you believe by what you do!

• Stay consistent and keep your integrity, whether the audience is big, small, or just you.

• Don’t let the attitudes or behaviors of others drag you away from your own standards or kindness.

• Practice self-observation without judgment; notice how you show up in daily life and reflect on what it reveals about you.

• Strive to leave every place, animal, and person better than you found them.

• Remember that your presence and care make a difference.

BIO:

Spiritual Mentor and writer Karen Kenney uses humor and dynamic storytelling to bring a down-to-earth, no-BS perspective to self-development.

Bringing together tools that coach the conscious and unconscious mind, Karen helps clients deepen their connections with Self, and discover their unique understandings of spirituality.

Her practice combines neuroscience, subconscious reprogramming, Integrative Hypnosis, somatic work, spiritual mentoring, and other holistic modalities to help regulate the nervous system, examine internal narratives, remove blocks, and reimagine what’s possible.

A passionate yoga teacher, long-time student of A Course in Miracles, and Gateless Writing instructor, Karen is a frequent speaker and retreat leader. Via her programs The Quest and The Nest, she coaches both individuals and groups.

With The Karen Kenney Podcast, she encourages listeners to shift from a thought system of fear to one of love, compassion, and personal responsibility.

CONNECT WITH KAREN:

Website: http://karenkenney.com/

Podcast: https://www.karenkenney.com/podcast

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/karenkenneylive/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenkenneylive/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KarenKenney

THE POWER OF AN INVITATION Oct 23, 2025

Show notes

On this episode of The Karen Kenney Show, I dive into the power of an invitation - the good, the bad, and the just plain weird.

I share some personal stories about how our culture has shifted from the old days of friendly, unannounced visits - to a time when people practically hide when the doorbell rings.

Growing up as a kid, I remember it was totally normal for family or friends to drop by with donuts and coffee on a Sunday morning.

But nowadays… a “just stop by anytime” invite often feels more like a brush-off than a warm welcome.

So, it got me to thinking about how the language and tone we use in our invitations can make all the difference.

Like how a vague offer of “you can come if you want to” - doesn’t really make anyone feel wanted; in fact, it can sometimes sting a little.

I also get into the nitty gritty of why direct, heartfelt invitations matter so much.

Because when someone takes the time to reach out with intention - you feel seen, valued, and truly part of the fold.

This episode isn’t just about social niceties.

It’s about helping to break down those internal stories or instructions that make us feel like a burden or sometimes, not even worthy of being invited.

Whether it’s old family patterns, cultural habits, or just plain discomfort, a lot of us struggle to ask for what we want -or- to trust that people really want us around.

I share my own experiences and encourage you to reflect on yours, because you deserve to feel included.

My big takeaway?

If you want to build real connection, don’t leave your invitations up to chance.

Be specific, be enthusiastic, and put a little extra love into your ask - whether it’s for a dinner party, a big event, or just a simple hangout.

A thoughtful invite has the power to lift someone up, help them feel like they belong, and make this crazy world a little warmer and kinder! ❤️

KK’S KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• The words and tone you use in an invitation can influence whether someone feels genuinely welcomed.

• Open-ended invitations like “drop by anytime” often feel halfhearted and don’t leave people feeling truly wanted.

• Direct, thoughtful, and enthusiastic invitations help build connection, trust, and a sense of belonging.

• Cultural shifts and personal stories shape how we give and receive invitations, sometimes making us hesitant to reach out, accept, or stay a while.

• A warm, personalized invite can help break down feelings of unworthiness or isolation.

• Making intentional plans, rather than casual or passive invites, shows effort and strengthens relationships.

• Going above and beyond by including a personal touch - like a handwritten note or a specific ask – makes your invitations more meaningful.

• People want to feel wanted and welcomed; take the extra step to make your invitations sincere and clear.

BIO:

Spiritual Mentor and writer Karen Kenney uses humor and dynamic storytelling to bring a down-to-earth, no-BS perspective to self-development.

Bringing together tools that coach the conscious and unconscious mind, Karen helps clients deepen their connections with Self, and discover their unique understandings of spirituality.

With The Karen Kenney Podcast, she encourages listeners to shift from a thought system of fear to one of love, compassion, and personal responsibility.

CONNECT WITH KAREN:

Website: http://karenkenney.com/

Podcast: https://www.karenkenney.com/podcast

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/karenkenneylive/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenkenneylive/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KarenKenney

INHERENT VS. INHERIT Oct 16, 2025

Show notes

On this episode of The Karen Kenney Show, I dive into the difference between what’s inherent in us -and- what we’ve inherited from the world around us.

I share how we sometimes confuse the two - taking on beliefs, stories, and even problems that were passed down to us, and then we start thinking that those things are just “who we are.”

Nope! The truth is, there’s a wicked big difference between what's built into us at our natural core and what we pick up along the way.

I talk about how being a Spiritual Being is something that’s inherent - like that sucker comes "factory installed" - meaning it’s just part of who we are, like our goodness, worthiness, and belonging.

On the flip side, there's some stuff like religion, beliefs about money, our eye-color, or even things like self-doubt that are often inherited from our families, culture, or society.

One of the big takeaways is the importance of questioning the stories and beliefs we’ve inherited, especially the ones that don’t serve us, or don't align us with our true nature!

So, I encourage you to pause and ask yourself, "What’s really mine, and what did I just pick up from someone elseoutside of me?"

This kind of self-reflection is a key part of personal growth and spiritual awareness.

At the end of the day, I want you to remember that you are inherently good, lovable, and worthy - no matter what you’ve been told, what you've believed in the past, or what you’ve inherited.

This episode is a little love letter to remind you of your true Self and to inspire you to let go of what doesn’t belong to you anymore or maybe never did!

Thanks so much for listening, and may you go out into the world remembering who you really are! ❤️

KK’S KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Inherent qualities are the essential, unchangeable parts of who we are, like our goodness, worthiness, and belonging.

• Inherited beliefs, stories, and traits come from our families, culture, and society, and are not always true about us and our real selves.

• It’s important to question the ideas and narratives we’ve inherited, especially if they don’t align with our true nature. Because shit often rolls downhill.

• We’re all inherently spiritual beings, connected to Love, Source, God, or the Divine, regardless of what we’ve been told about our limited ego-personality selves.

• Much of our self-doubt and negative self-talk comes from inherited stories from our younger years, often from people who weren’t emotionally intelligent at the time.

• Personal growth and spiritual awareness take place when we start to get curious and reflect on what’s truly ours and are willing to let go of what’s not.

• Remembering our inherent goodness, beauty, and belonging helps us live more authentically, joyfully, and compassionately.

BIO:

Spiritual Mentor and writer Karen Kenney uses humor and dynamic storytelling to bring a down-to-earth, no-BS perspective to self-development.

Bringing together tools that coach the conscious and unconscious mind, Karen helps clients deepen their connections with Self, and discover their unique understandings of spirituality.

With The Karen Kenney Podcast, she encourages listeners to shift from a thought system of fear to one of love, compassion, and personal responsibility.

CONNECT WITH KAREN:

Website: http://karenkenney.com/

Podcast: https://www.karenkenney.com/podcast

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/karenkenneylive/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenkenneylive/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KarenKenney

SOMEONE IS YOU Oct 09, 2025

Show notes

EP334 – SOMEONE IS YOU

On this episode of The Karen Kenney Show, I talk about what happened when I finally decided to stop grumbling about the trash I kept seeing on my running route and actually do something about it!

I share how my sweetie and I run or walk in our rural neighborhood, and how seeing litter along the road always bugged me.

Instead of just judging others for it, I remembered my own past (hello, former cigarette-butt-flicker here! 🫣) and realized it was time to take action myself.

I also dive into the story of how a wicked fun childhood memory - being part of the Thompson Tigers Clean Team in fifth grade - came rushing back to me.

I even found my old “clean team” patch and wore it proudly as I set out with trash bags and gloves to clean up my neighborhood.

Along the way, I met some wonderful people, like Jessie, an older woman who told me she tries to "do a kindness every day", and who said I inspired her to go out and do the same at her end of the street. Yay!

That moment reminded me how our actions can ripple out and encourage others.

Throughout the episode, I reflect on how easy it is to focus on what others are doing wrong, but how much more powerful it is to look at what we can do ourselves to create change.

Inspired by a teaching from Swami Kripalu, I talk about the importance of focusing on strengthening new positive traits and virtues, rather than just fighting against the old negatives.

Whether it’s picking up trash, spreading kindness, or simply being a little more compassionate, we all have the power to make a difference - no matter how small it seems.

So, if you’ve ever found yourself thinking, “Someone ought to do something about that,” maybe that someone is you!

I encourage you to look for the good, "do a kindness", and leave every place and person a little better than you found them.

Thanks for tuning in, and if this episode inspired you, please share it with someone and help me spread a little more love in the world. ❤️

KK’S KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Noticing a problem in your community might be a sign that you’re the one to help fix it.

• Taking action, even in small ways (like picking up trash), can inspire others to do the same.

• It’s easy to judge others, but a little self-reflection can reveal our own past mistakes and help us to act with more compassion.

• Focusing on strengthening new positive traits and virtues - is way more effective than dwelling on past negative

• When you feel frustrated that “someone” should do something, remember that someone might be you

• Sharing positive actions and stories can encourage a ripple effect of goodness in your community.

• Everyday acts of kindness, no matter how small, can make a real difference for you, your family, your neighborhood and the greater world!

BIO:

Spiritual Mentor and writer Karen Kenney uses humor and dynamic storytelling to bring a down-to-earth, no-BS perspective to self-development.

Bringing together tools that coach the conscious and unconscious mind, Karen helps clients deepen their connections with Self, and discover their unique understandings of spirituality.

With The Karen Kenney Podcast, she encourages listeners to shift from a thought system of fear to one of love, compassion, and personal responsibility.

CONNECT WITH KAREN:

Website: http://karenkenney.com/

Podcast: https://www.karenkenney.com/podcast

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/karenkenneylive/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenkenneylive/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KarenKenney

FEELINGS INTO FELONIES Oct 02, 2025

Show notes

On this episode of The Karen Kenney Show, I dive into the idea of how without awareness or tools, we can end up turning our feelings into felonies.

Maybe not literally - but if we’re not careful, the ways in which we react, lash out, or stew in negativity – can still be harmful.

I share about the importance of emotional regulation and how so many of us were never really taught as kids what the heck to do with our big feelings.

I talk about how easy it is to look at extreme acts of violence in the world and think, “That’s not me,” but the truth is, we all have moments where our emotions get the best of us.

Whether it’s snapping at someone, holding onto grudges, losing your shit in traffic, or letting our thoughts spiral, it’s all part of the same cycle.

The thing us, for most people growing up, nobody sat us down to teach us how to feel our feelings, or how to navigate those suckers in a healthy way.

Throughout the episode, I also share some of my favorite tools and strategies for getting a handle on those big emotions.

Things like slowing down, practicing self-awareness, and using healthy coping mechanisms like walking, breathing exercises, or even just getting outside in nature to shift your perspective.

I also talk about the power of community, whether it’s joining a group like The Nest or just finding people who support and uplift you.

My hope is that by sharing these stories and tools, you’ll feel a little less alone, and a little more empowered to pause, check in with yourself, and choose love over fear.

We can’t always control what happens around us, but we can choose how we respond.

So let’s practice being kinder to ourselves and each other, and remember: the real gig is to spread love - and not let our feelings run the show. ❤️

KK’S KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Slowing down is the first key step to becoming more self-aware and emotionally regulated.

• Emotional regulation means learning to manage your feelings and responses in healthy ways.

• Unchecked emotions can lead to negative thoughts, actions, and even harm to yourself or others.

• Healthy coping mechanisms like walking, breathing exercises, and spending time in nature can help shift your emotional state.

• Self-awareness grows when you pause, reflect, and notice your patterns and triggers.

• It’s important to question your thoughts and not believe every story your mind tells you.

• Community support, whether through groups or trusted people, can make a big difference in emotional well-being.

• Practicing kindness, compassion, and love - toward yourself and others - can help break negative emotional cycles.

• You have the power to interrupt harmful patterns and consciously choose more helpful responses.

• The real goal is to spread more love and to leave the world better than you found it.

BIO:

Spiritual Mentor and writer Karen Kenney uses humor and dynamic storytelling to bring a down-to-earth, no-BS perspective to self-development.

Bringing together tools that coach the conscious and unconscious mind, Karen helps clients deepen their connections with Self, and discover their unique understandings of spirituality.

With The Karen Kenney Podcast, she encourages listeners to shift from a thought system of fear to one of love, compassion, and personal responsibility.

CONNECT WITH KAREN:

Website: http://karenkenney.com/

Podcast: https://www.karenkenney.com/podcast

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/karenkenneylive/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenkenneylive/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KarenKenney

PRACTICING HOPE Sep 25, 2025

Show notes

On this episode of The Karen Kenney Show, we’re talking about hope.

What it really means, why it sometimes gets a bad rap, and how we can look at it through a bunch of different lenses.

I share why hope isn’t just some fluffy, pie-in-the-sky idea - but actually a powerful mindset and a skill that we can practice every day, especially when the world feels crazy, overwhelming or out of control.

We talk about how hope is more than just a feeling… it’s also a way of thinking, a call to action, and a belief in the possibility of a better future!

I get into the idea of “learned hopefulness,” and how it’s wicked interesting that hope actually needs a little uncertainty or negativity to get activated.

Plus, I share stories from Greek mythology, psychology, and even a little Mister Rogers - to show how hope can be a guiding light, even when things look and feel tough.

One of my big takeaways is that hope isn’t passive.

It’s not about just wishing things would get better, it’s about believing we can make a positive difference and then getting our ass in gear and actually doing something about it.

I talk about the importance of shifting our perspective, training our minds to look for the good, the beautiful, and the holy…

And how our individual actions can ripple out to create bigger change in our families, communities, and the world.

If you’re feeling a little low on hope, I invite you to join me in practicing it!

Visualize the future you want, “walk as if” your dreams are already happening, and remember that hope can be an act of resistance and a source of strength.

And if you want to go deeper or get support, come check out my “Nest” community -or- my one-to-one mentoring.

Wherever you are, may you leave the world a little better than you found it, and may your hope be a blessing to yourself and others! ❤️

KK’S KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Hope is more than a feeling; it is a mindset, a call to action, a practice, and a belief in the possibility of positive change.

• Practicing hope requires us to shift our perspective and train our minds to look for the good, the beautiful, and the holy.

• Hope is not passive; it inspires us to take action and create the future we want to see.

• “Learned Hopefulness” means cultivating the belief that we can positively influence our own lives and the world.

• Visualizing and embodying your desired future can more likely help to make hope a lived reality.

• Individual change and inner peace are the starting points for creating broader change in families, communities, and society.

• Hope can be an act of resistance and a source of strength during difficult times.

• Joining a supportive community can help you practice and sustain hope in your daily life.

BIO:

Spiritual Mentor and writer Karen Kenney uses humor and dynamic storytelling to bring a down-to-earth, no-BS perspective to self-development.

Bringing together tools that coach the conscious and unconscious mind, Karen helps clients deepen their connections with Self, and discover their unique understandings of spirituality.

With The Karen Kenney Podcast, she encourages listeners to shift from a thought system of fear to one of love, compassion, and personal responsibility.

CONNECT WITH KAREN:

Website: http://karenkenney.com/

Podcast: https://www.karenkenney.com/podcast

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/karenkenneylive/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenkenneylive/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KarenKenney

ARE YOU OK? Sep 18, 2025

Show notes

On this episode of The Karen Kenney Show, I talk about something that really lit my heart up.

It’s all about how a simple question like, “Are you OK?” - can make a world of difference.

Inspired by Australia’s “R U OK? Day,” I share why checking in on our friends, family, and even ourselves is wicked important, especially with all the heavy stuff going on in the world.

I open up about my own experience and how sometimes, just being asked a sincere, “How are you really?” - can be a game changer.

It’s not just about asking the question, but about being present, paying attention, and noticing when someone might be struggling - even if they’re the “strong” one in your circle.

I discuss why people sometimes don’t reach out for help, and how we can be the ones to go first and offer a listening ear.

I also break down the “R U OK?” four-step “ALEC” framework: Ask, Listen, Encourage Action, and Check-In.

I talk about how to prepare yourself before having these kind of conversations - making sure that you’re ready, in the right headspace, and have consciously picked the right moment.

I also share some tips on how to really listen without judgment, encourage small steps forward, and follow-up so people know you truly care.

My hope is that you’ll take this episode as a little nudge to check in on someone you care about - or even yourself.

We all need each other to get through the madness of life, and sometimes the smallest act of kindness can be the biggest blessing.

So, are you OK?

And if you’re not, I hope you know you matter and there’s always someone out there who cares! ❤️

KK’S KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Asking “Are you OK?” can make a real difference in someone’s life.

• The annual “R U OK? Day” in Australia encourages everyone to check in on the people around them.

• Pay attention and noticing changes in someone’s mood or behavior is a sign to reach out.

• Before starting a meaningful conversation, make sure you’re ready, prepared, and have picked the right moment.

• The 4-step “ALEC” framework - Ask, Listen, Encourage Action, and Check-in - offers a simple way to support others.

• Listening without judgment and being fully present helps people feel seen and cared for.

• Encouraging small steps or connecting someone to resources can be more helpful than trying to “fix” everything.

• Following up after the initial conversation shows you genuinely care and builds trust.

• Even strong or independent people need to be checked on, as they may not ask for help.

• Practicing kindness and compassion, even in small ways, can have a wicked big impact!

BIO:

Spiritual Mentor and writerKaren Kenney uses humor and dynamic storytelling to bring a down-to-earth, no-BS perspective to self-development.

Bringing together tools that coach the conscious and unconscious mind, Karen helps clients deepen their connections with Self, and discover their unique understandings of spirituality.

With The Karen Kenney Podcast, she encourages listeners to shift from a thought system of fear to one of love, compassion, and personal responsibility.

CONNECT WITH KAREN:

Website: http://karenkenney.com/

Podcast: https://www.karenkenney.com/podcast

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/karenkenneylive/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenkenneylive/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KarenKenney

BEWARE THE TEMPTATION Sep 11, 2025

Show notes

KKEP331 – BEWARE THE TEMPTATION

On this episode of The Karen Kenney Show podcast, I talk about a recent trip to a casino (for my sweetie's gig with Sully Erna of Godsmack) that really got me thinking about the world we live in today.

Walking into that place was like stepping into a full-on sensory overload - bombarded by flashing lights, nonstop sounds, and a vibe that just pulls you and your brain in from every direction.

It was wild to notice how everything is designed to keep you distracted and consuming, and it made me realize how easy it is to get swept up in all that noise.

As I moved through the casino, I couldn’t help but compare it to the way our phones and social media work.

Just like the casino, our electronic devices are built to keep us hooked, and chasing that next little dopamine hit.

It’s so easy to lose track of time and get pulled away from what really matters, whether it’s connecting with people, being present, or just enjoying the world around us.

This experience was a wake-up call for me to check in with myself and ask some honest questions:

Where am I getting distracted? What am I letting pull my attention away from the things and people that truly matter?

I realized that it’s not about judging ourselves, but about getting real and making sure we’re living on purpose, not just on autopilot.

So, if you’re feeling a little lost in all the noise out there or like you’ve been “dopamined into oblivion,” - you’re not alone.

I hope this episode inspires you to pause, take a fearless look at where your time and energy are really going, and remember what you’re here to do.

Let’s get back to what matters most and leave a little more love behind wherever we go. ❤️

KK’S KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Casinos are designed to create sensory overload and to keep people distracted and consuming – food, booze, gambling, shopping, etc

• Modern technology and social media run the same sort of racket and use similar tactics to capture our attention and keep us hooked.

• It’s wicked easy to lose sight of what really matters - when we’re constantly bombarded by all kinds of distractions.

• Taking time to reflect on where our attention habitually goes can help us live more intentionally.

• Being self-aware allows us to focus on meaningful relationships, intentional activities, and our true purpose.

• It’s important to pause, ask ourselves honest questions, and make sure we’re not living life on autopilot.

• Choosing to use our time, gifts, and energy for love and service - can help us make a difference and leave a positive impact!

BIO:

Spiritual Mentor and writer Karen Kenney uses humor and dynamic storytelling to bring a down-to-earth, no-BS perspective to self-development.

Bringing together tools that coach the conscious and unconscious mind, Karen helps clients deepen their connections with Self, and discover their unique understandings of spirituality.

With The Karen Kenney Podcast, she encourages listeners to shift from a thought system of fear to one of love, compassion, and personal responsibility.

CONNECT WITH KAREN:

Website: http://karenkenney.com/

Podcast: https://www.karenkenney.com/podcast

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/karenkenneylive/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenkenneylive/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KarenKenney

YOUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS Sep 04, 2025

Show notes

On this episode of The Karen Kenney Show, I dive into the idea of creating your own personal board of directors.

Inspired by my friend’s business and my own journey, I explore what it means to have a group of trusted people in your life who can offer guidance, accountability, and support - kind of like your own “Knights of the Round Table.”

I share how this concept goes beyond the corporate world and can be a powerful tool for personal growth and decision-making.

I talk about the importance of choosing people with diverse backgrounds, talents, and perspectives.

It’s not about having a bunch of “yes” people around you. Instead, you want to curate a group that can challenge you, cheer you on, and help you see things from different angles.

I break down the key qualities to look for - like trust, mutual respect, genuine care, and communication styles that will work for you.

Members of the board should get you, understand your goals, and want to see you succeed.

I also remind us about the responsibility that comes with asking for someone’s time and advice. If you’re going to reach out to your board, show up prepared and be clear about what you need.

And remember, you’re the head honcho - you get to decide whose advice to take and when to go your own way. It’s all about gathering perspectives, not handing over your power.

At the end of the day, building your own board of directors is a fun way to surround yourself with people who love you, believe in you, and can help you grow.

Whether you make it official or just take a moment to appreciate the amazing humans in your life, I hope this episode inspires you to reflect on who’s at your table - and maybe even send a little thank you their way! ❤️

KK’S KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• A personal board of directors is a handpicked group of people who offer you guidance and support.

• Choose members with diverse backgrounds and perspectives for well-rounded advice.

• Select people whose character and experience you respect and admire.

• Trust and mutual respect are essential for open and honest conversations.

• Board members should understand your goals, values, and who you are.

• You want genuine care and a lack of competition or jealousy.

• Communication styles should match your needs so you can receive feedback effectively.

• Always show up prepared and respect your board members’ time.

• You can change your board members as your needs and relationships evolve.

• Remember, you are in charge and get to decide which advice to follow and when.

BIO:

Spiritual mentor and writer Karen Kenney uses humor and dynamic storytelling to bring a down-to-earth, no-BS perspective to self-development.

Bringing together tools that coach the conscious and unconscious mind, Karen helps clients deepen their connections with Self, and discover their unique understandings of spirituality.

Her practice combines neuroscience, subconscious reprogramming, Integrative Hypnosis, somatics, spiritual mentoring, and other holistic modalities to help regulate the nervous system, examine internal narratives, remove blocks, and reimagine what’s possible.

With The Karen Kenney Podcast, she encourages listeners to shift from a thought system of fear to one of love, compassion, and personal responsibility.

CONNECT WITH KAREN:

Website: http://karenkenney.com/

Podcast: https://www.karenkenney.com/podcast

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/karenkenneylive/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenkenneylive/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KarenKenney

STOP BEFORE YOU START Aug 28, 2025

Show notes

On this episode of The Karen Kenney Show, I talk about the power of stopping before you start - especially when it comes to how we communicate with others.

I share a little story about catching myself as I was about to fire off a sarcastic response (classic Masshole move!) and realizing that just because something comes easy or is a habit, doesn’t mean it’s always the best way to show up.

Sometimes, it’s worth pausing and asking ourselves, “Is this really how I want to respond?”

I dive into how our brains get wired over time for certain automatic reactions, like sarcasm or quick replies, and how the speed of today’s world makes it even harder to slow down.

We’re all so used to “instant” responses and moving at the pace of technology, but that doesn’t always serve us - or the people we’re talking to.

I talk about checking in with yourself before you hit send -or- how I like to pause before I open my big fat mouth! 😆

It’s good to get a grip on where you and your nervous system are at: How’s your mood? Are you tired, angry, hungry, or stressed?

Because that stuff totally colors the words, tone, and temperature of how we come across.

I also share some of my favorite tricks for being a clearer, more thoughtful communicator - like numbering info in emails, using bold text, and breaking things up with a little more space - so people can actually take it in.

It’s all about making things easier for the person on the other end -and- saving yourself from a bunch of back-and-forth later.

And, if we all took a second to put ourselves in someone else’s shoes, and how it might feel to be on the receiving end of things, the world would be a much kinder, more compassionate place.

So, the big takeaway?

Slow down, check in with yourself, and be intentional with your words and actions.

Whether you’re writing, talking, or interacting with others in your life, you’ve got the power to choose a new or different way in every moment.

Sending you lots of love and encouragement to leave everything and everyone a little better than you found them! ❤️

KK’S KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Stop before you start running your mouth or reacting from conditioning, habits, or patterns.

• Pausing before you respond helps you communicate more intentionally and avoid knee-jerk reactions.

• Checking in with your mood and mindset before replying to people, emails, and messages can prevent misunderstandings and unnecessary conflict.

• Using clear formatting in written communication - like numbering, bold text, and short paragraphs - makes your communication easier for others to understand.

• Taking the time to consider how your words will land shows compassion and helps build better relationships.

• Try to put yourself in the other person’s shoes and imagine being on the receiving end.

• You can always choose a new way to respond, no matter how ingrained your habits have been.

• Slowing down and being thoughtful with your words and actions can make a positive difference for you and others. Win-Win!

BIO:

Spiritual mentor and writer Karen Kenney uses humor and dynamic storytelling to bring a down-to-earth, no-BS perspective to self-development.

Bringing together tools that coach the conscious and unconscious mind, Karen helps clients deepen their connections with Self, and discover their unique understandings of spirituality.

With The Karen Kenney Podcast, she encourages listeners to shift from a thought system of fear to one of love, compassion, and personal responsibility.

CONNECT WITH KAREN:

Website: http://karenkenney.com/

Podcast: https://www.karenkenney.com/podcast

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/karenkenneylive/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenkenneylive/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@KarenKenney