The Imaginal Life

In this episode, I spoke with my friend and fellow coach, Bonnie Hutchinson, to discuss the power of compassionWe talked about:* The meaning of compassion.* The difference between compassion and empathy.* How to practice self-compassion.* Compassion in action.Bonnie also shared a simple practice for nurturing our inner child during difficult and challenging moments.Resources mentioned:* Impossible Compassion by Edward Mannix* Self-Compassion by Kristin Neff, PhD* Lovingkindness Meditation by Sharon SalzbergLearn more about Bonnie’s work:www.bonniehutchinson.comSign up to The ChrysalisGet weekly letters delivered to your inbox, offering inspiration and reflection for brilliant and thoughtful women who want to become embodied leaders of our time. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit franceslacuesta.substack.com

I spoke with Positive Psychology Practitioner and Life Coach Kaylee Bronkhorst in this episode. After a stint as a professional yachting crew member, she immersed herself in studying positive psychology. She fell in love with the concepts and its potential to transform lives. The tools and practices helped her build resilience and overcome challenging times. She founded Beyond Content, her life coaching practice, so she could share the power of positive psychology with others. Tune in to the episode to hear: * How to build a new habit by journalling for only a few minutes a day. * The importance of turning simple chores into the practice of self-care.* Learning to train the brain to scan for the positive experiences without ignoring the negative. * Applying the hour of power before bedtime and after waking up in the morning. * Noticing negative self-talk and re-framing it. Buy the journal on Amazon.Visit Kaylee’s website. Link to the blog.Sign up to The ChrysalisGet weekly love letters delivered to your inbox, offering inspiration and reflection for brilliant and thoughtful women who want to nurture a rich inner life.Website | Facebook | Newsletter This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit franceslacuesta.substack.com

Being a creative is not easy.We often celebrate the finished products—a published book, a polished song, or a captivating film—but rarely acknowledge the effort and emotional rollercoaster accompanying them.Navigating this turbulent phase—the messy middle—is like a caterpillar transforming into a chrysalis. Not everyone emerges as a butterfly; some falter under self-doubt, while some lack the stamina to endure the creative process.How, then, as a creative, can you handle the messy middle?In this episode, I share five tips on how to deal with the messy and imperfect creative journey. Sign up to The ChrysalisGet weekly love letters delivered to your inbox. I offer inspiration and reflection for brilliant and thoughtful women who want to nurture a rich inner life.Website | Facebook | Newsletter This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit franceslacuesta.substack.com

For those consumed by worry, lean on to the wise and loving part of you.Sign up to The ChrysalisGet weekly love letters delivered to your inbox, offering inspiration and reflection for brilliant and thoughtful women who want to nurture a rich inner life.Website | Facebook | Newsletter This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit franceslacuesta.substack.com

Inspired by Chara Caruthers’ post on self-renewal, here are four ways to revisit, renew, and re-commit to your intentions. Listen now on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube.Resources Mentioned:The Two Wolves StorySign up to The ChrysalisGet weekly love letters delivered to your inbox, offering inspiration and reflection for brilliant and thoughtful women who want to nurture a rich inner life.Website | Facebook | Newsletter This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit franceslacuesta.substack.com

In today's episode, I delve into a personal journey of discovering the true meaning of "rooting." Join me as I share how this journey has transformed my perspective on stability and inner strength, offering insights into the profound impact of rooting in our lives.Sign up for The ChrysalisGet weekly love letters delivered to your inbox, offering inspiration and reflection for brilliant and thoughtful women. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit franceslacuesta.substack.com

I hear the expression "There's always something" a lot these days. An example is when your day is going well, and something unpleasant happens. The expression has a negative connotation. So, how can we put a positive spin on it without bypassing the emotions that come with the experience? In this episode, I share three keys to dealing with situations when life doesn't go as planned.Listen now on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube.Sign up to The ChrysalisGet weekly love letters delivered to your inbox, offering inspiration and reflection for brilliant and thoughtful women who want to nurture a rich inner life. Website | Facebook | Newsletter This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit franceslacuesta.substack.com

During a global pandemic that left many of us isolated and uncertain, one television show emerged as a source of joy and inspiration for me: RuPaul's Drag Race. It wasn't just a show; it became a lifeline—a source of laughter, creativity, and profound life lessons.In this episode, I shared five lessons I learned from the drag race queens.Listen now on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube.Sign up to The ChrysalisGet weekly love letters delivered to your inbox, offering inspiration and reflection for brilliant and thoughtful women.Website | Facebook | Newsletter This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit franceslacuesta.substack.com

In this episode, I talked about my fascination with space exploration, which was sparked by documentaries like PBS's Nova and Netflix's series on the James Webb Space Telescope.The thought that we are made of the same elements as stars and interconnected with each other excites me to the core.I shared three takeaways on exploring the universe within each of us.Listen now on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube.Resources Mentioned:PBS's Nova seriesJames Webb Space TelescopeEuclid Space TelescopeUnknown Cosmic Time Machine- Netflix documentary seriesSign up to The ChrysalisGet weekly love letters delivered to your inbox, offering inspiration and reflection for brilliant and thoughtful women.Website | Facebook | Newsletter This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit franceslacuesta.substack.com

In this episode, we delve into the tender realities of navigating life's challenges, especially when they happen at the same time. Join me as I share personal reflections and practical insights on finding resilience and solace during difficult times.An invitation:I'm holding a free listening circle for women. We'll witness our own experiences through writing, listening, and speaking. I'd love for you to join me. Let's make tough times a bit lighter. Save the date: July 9th.Connect with Frances:Website | Facebook | Newsletter This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit franceslacuesta.substack.com

It’s been a while since I last recorded an episode, but I am now ready and eager to start this new chapter with some changes. Have a listen, and I’m looking forward to continuing this journey of transformation with you. Connect with Frances:Website | Facebook | Newsletter This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit franceslacuesta.substack.com

In this episode, we explore the topic of empathy and how it can be developed as a skill. We examine how we can become more empathetic towards those with whom we disagree and discuss some helpful practices that can assist in building empathy. My conversation with Leadership Coach Misha Safran provides an in-depth look into the fascinating subject of empathy and how mastering it can enhance our relationships with others and improve our lives.About Misha:Misha Safran is the founder and CEO of the Center for Empathy and Emotional Intelligence (CEEQ). She is a trilingual ICF professional certified coach, an international speaker, and an award-winning Leadership Trainer. She is also the author of a Teacher's Companion, How to Center Empathy and Emotional Well-Being for Yourself and Your Students. She is a single mother of three adult children. She also identifies as queer and is a multi-passionate creative who is fully expressing herself to the world with her multitude of gifts.Connect with Misha:Website: www.ceeq.orgBuy her book A Teacher's Companion: How to Center Empathy & Emotional Well-Being for Yourself and Your Students HERE.Thank you for reading The Chrysalis. This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit franceslacuesta.substack.com

Where do you begin in letting go of these unresolved and festering resentments? In this episode, I shared a process to release them, so you can liberate yourself and allow more peace and joy into your life. Music: Thoughts Unfolding on a Guitar- Kurtis ParksThank you for listening to the Imaginal Life podcast!  Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe to the podcast and leave us a review. We appreciate you. Your support enables us to keep bringing you the goods on the show!Connect with Frances:Website | Instagram | Facebook | Newsletter This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit franceslacuesta.substack.com

Are you struggling with feelings of bitterness and anger towards someone, making it difficult for you to let go of those resentments?In this episode, we talked about resentments - its meaning and the importance of releasing oneself from them.Thank you for listening to the Imaginal Life podcast!  Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe to the podcast and leave us a review. We appreciate you. Your support enables us to keep bringing you the goods on the show!Connect with Frances:Website | Instagram | Facebook | Newsletter This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit franceslacuesta.substack.com

Have you ever noticed how some individuals uplift and motivate you, while others make you feel uneasy and down? This is all connected to the energy we emit. In this episode, I delve into the influence of human energy, specifically the vibes or presence that we project to those around us.Mentioned in the podcast:Jill Bolte-Taylor Ted TalkMusic: Empyreal Glow- LeavesThank you for listening to the Imaginal Life podcast!  Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe to the podcast and leave us a review. We appreciate you. Your support enables us to keep bringing you the goods on the show!Connect with Frances:Website | Instagram | Facebook | Newsletter This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit franceslacuesta.substack.com

Do you want to know how to build inclusive environments and understand the concepts of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging? Are you interested in becoming an inclusive leader but don't know where to start? In this episode, I spoke with Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging expert Cecilia Mzvondiwa. We explored the topic of inclusive leadership and how we can foster a sense of belonging for ourselves and those around us.About Cecilia:Cecilia Mzvondiwa was born and raised in Gweru, Zimbabwe, and moved to Canada in 2001. She’s a family and immigration lawyer, a certified executive coach, and the CEO and founder of Global People First, a consultancy business focusing on diversity, inclusion, and equity. She’s a speaker, trainer, and author of Beyond Tokenism. Embrace a Sense of Belonging and Stand Out as an Inclusive Leader. With over 15 years of working with vulnerable groups and advocating for minorities, Cecilia is passionate about a world where every human being will be treated fairly on the basis of being human. She has a diverse educational background, from Philosophy and Theology to Human Security and Law.Connect with Cecilia:Website: www.globalpeoplefirst.comBuy her book Beyond Tokenism HERE. Thank you for listening to the Imaginal Life podcast!  Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe to the podcast and leave us a review. We appreciate you. Your support enables us to keep bringing you the goods on the show!Connect with Frances:Website | Instagram | Facebook | Newsletter This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit franceslacuesta.substack.com

How many times have you held yourself back from pursuing your dreams because you felt you weren't good enough? How often have you battled the relentless voice in your head that constantly tells you it's never perfect, never worthy?In this episode, we'll discover how we can break free from the grips of perfectionism, embrace our flaws, and confidently present ourselves to the world.Music: We Will Get There- DreamlandThank you for listening to the Imaginal Life podcast!  Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe to the podcast and leave us a review. We appreciate you. Your support enables us to keep bringing you the goods on the show!Find the full transcript on the website: https://www.bigimpactwomen.com/the-imaginal-lifeConnect with Frances:Website | Instagram | Facebook | Newsletter This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit franceslacuesta.substack.com

Finding a balance between living in the present moment and pursuing your dreams can be a challenge. How can you manage to do both without sacrificing one for the other?In this episode, I explored the difference between striving and surrendering and what it’s like to strive with intention. Music: Morning Flight- BrentwoodThank you for listening to the Imaginal Life podcast!  Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe to the podcast and leave us a review. We appreciate you. Your support enables us to keep bringing you the goods on the show!Connect with Frances:Website | Instagram | Facebook | Newsletter This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit franceslacuesta.substack.com

I share my own struggles as an introvert, but most of all, this is an invitation for you to look at what you consider as flaws and turn them into strengths.Thank you for listening to the Imaginal Life podcast!  Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe to the podcast and leave us a review. We appreciate you. Your support enables us to keep bringing you the goods on the show!Connect with Frances:Website | Instagram | Facebook | Newsletter This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit franceslacuesta.substack.com

I've adopted a valuable philosophy from one of my all-time favorite movies, Begin Again, directed by John Carney. This simple phrase, This Moment is a Pearl, has profoundly transformed my perspective on life's ordinary, messy, and imperfect moments. I now apply it in my daily life, and I invite you to join me on this journey of appreciating life's little pearls. Thank you for listening to the Imaginal Life podcast!  Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe to the podcast and leave us a review. We appreciate you. Your support enables us to keep bringing you the goods on the show!Connect with Frances:Website | Instagram | Facebook | Newsletter This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit franceslacuesta.substack.com