Hot Takes on Healing with Jess Leone

Episode #18: Addicted to the Struggle with Kate Sullivan

In this raw and powerful episode, I’m joined by Kate Sullivan, who drops this #hottake: mental health struggles can be just as devastating as addiction—instead of healing the root, we keep slapping Band-Aids on the symptoms. Together we dig into what it really means to live with that weight, including the addiction to sorrow and suffering, the link between dyslexia and addiction (learning something new every day!), and the life-changing moment Kate was finally placed in a school with kids who learned like her, where she actually felt seen. She also speaks to the deep need for belonging and community, and how so much of addiction stems from the lack of both. When we’re disconnected, the spiral is easier to fall into...and harder to crawl out of.
One of the most powerful parts of this conversation? The truth about relationships and safety. Kate shares what it was like being in a relationship so unsafe, she had to tell coworkers to check on her if she ever didn’t show up. Her story is a wake-up call and a reminder that choosing yourself is rarely easy, but always necessary. What followed was five years of chaos, but also growth, reclamation, and the kind of strength that can only come from walking through fire.
This episode is full of real talk and reflection, including:- Why you’ve gottaaaaa stop letting people “squat in your mind”- How to create a list of what you actually want in relationships based on your values, not your wounds- The magic of being brave enough to date your friends- How apps and multigenerational friendships are expanding the way we connect- And why making eye contact, talking to strangers, and being human AF is the actual way we rewrite our view of the world
Because if you grew up guarded, hypervigilant, or disconnected...we need new evidence! We need reminders that most people are good, and that being human doesn’t mean being perfect. It means being real. We close with this reminder: You are not a robot. You are human. And that’s your superpower. Healing isn’t just about surviving, but remembering how to live.
If this conversation landed for you, please share it, leave a review, and subscribe. To connect further, join our Facebook community for deeper conversations and behind-the-scenes access, follow me on Instagram/TikTok at @itsjessleone, or visit www.jessleone.com for more! 

Episode #17: How to Become a High Value Woman & Heal Your Anxious Attachment Style

This episode features Kay Robbs, a Connecticut-based lifestyle blogger whose platform is all about wellness, food, self-care, and fun date ideas. Kay’s grounded presence and honest perspective make her the perfect guest to dive into a conversation about healing anxious attachment and stepping into your high-value era.
We talk about the deep fear of abandonment that drives anxious attachment, and how often that fear shows up as anxiety, overthinking, and people-pleasing. Kay and I unpack what it means to truly begin healing—from reparenting yourself and regulating your nervous system, to finally learning how to emotionally support yourself rather than relying on constant validation from others. We also talk about something so many women struggle with: over-giving. We overextend because it feels good to love people, and because somewhere along the way, we never learned where the line was. But the truth is, you can’t keep pouring from an empty cup. At some point, your body, your energy, your peace—will ask for more.
Kay shares her personal mindset shift: “I don’t want to wake up and have regrets.” That perspective led us to discuss emotional reactivity, learning to communicate from a regulated place, and how to speak the same love-language as your partner. I also opened up about my own experience being triggered in my relationship with my husband, and how I’ve learned to de-escalate conflict by leading with curiosity and compassion.
We also talk about the art of detachment, and how real healing begins with self-awareness. You don’t heal by shaming your past—you heal by owning your patterns, recognizing your power, and choosing differently. As Kay puts it, “Anxiously attached people don’t live in the present.” And if you want something different, it’s on you to create it. 
This episode is full of wisdom around becoming a high value woman—not in the hustle, toxic-femininity kind of way—but in a grounded, peaceful, self-led way. We explore what it means to trust yourself deeply, stop taking things personally, set boundaries with grace, let go of people-pleasing, and create a life that feels aligned and beautiful to you.
Want to connect with Kay Robbs and find your next spot for a facial, a date, or some seriously yummy food? Follow her at @kayrobbsmua and let her guide your next self-care moment or local adventure!
If you want to connect with me, you can find me on Instagram (@hottakesonhealing) or visit my website at www.jessleone.com. 
Don't forget to like, subscribe, and leave a review to keep the conversation going! We will see you next week on Hot Takes on Healing! 

Episode #16: Seeking Something Greater with Robyn Miller Brecker & Karen Loenser

In this episode, I sit down with Robyn Miller Brecker & Karen Loenser and dive into their personal "hot takes" on healing and the journey that led them to create The Seeking Center.
Robyn, an Emmy® award-winning producer, spent over 20 years working alongside Oprah Winfrey (YEAAAAH, THAT Oprah!), shaping impactful programming with some of the world’s most brilliant thought leaders. She has a background in media innovation, having helped launch Noggin and worked at Nickelodeon.
Karen, an award-winning producer and digital strategist, has played a key role in major platforms like Discovery+. She’s also the author of the Amazon bestseller LifeMapping and co-host of Seeking Center: The Podcast, where she and Robyn explore life’s biggest questions.
Together, they created The Seeking Center, your go-to space for wellness and spirituality. They cut through the noise to bring you real, tested insights on personal growth, healing, and living fully. Think of them as your 24/7 Seeking B.F.Fs!
(Want to learn more? Visit The Seeking Center at theseekingcenter.com)
We talk about what it means to be a seeker and how to find what truly resonates with you. Grief is a major theme in this conversation, as we explore its role in the healing process. Robyn shares her "hot take" that people don’t really die when they leave this physical plane, while Karen believes that the reason we are here is to learn and grow, and that the hard lessons we face are happening for a reason. This conversation goes deep into spirituality as we discuss G.U.S.S (God, Universe, Source, Spirit) and how it influences our journeys.
One of the biggest takeaways from this episode is the importance of seeking together and the power of community in healing. Growth doesn’t have to be a solo journey—finding like-minded people to explore, question, and evolve with can make all the difference. Healing happens in connection, and The Seeking Center is built on the belief that we are stronger when we navigate life’s big questions side by side.
That’s exactly why I created Sacred Circle—to give women a space to return to themselves, to each other, and to something greater. Over the last four years, this community has grown into something powerful, a place where friendships are forged, resilience is celebrated, and support is unconditional. I’ve watched women walk in feeling lost, disconnected, unsure—and leave feeling lighter, empowered, and held. And the truth is, we all need that.
I invite you to join us in circle this Friday (April 11th) or on Friday, April 25th from 6-8:30pm at Ananta in Wallingford. The journey starts with one step, one decision, one evening, ONE MOMENT of saying yes to yourself. (Here's a sneak peek of what you're getting when you come join the magic!)

"Fly on the Wall” Series – Episode 3: When Toxic Patterns Show Up in Unexpected Places (Round 2 w/ Mary!)

Welcome to my series within Hot Takes on Healing: "Fly On a Wall", where you get an all-access pass to the deep, inspiring, & unfiltered conversations I’ve had with some of my closest friends.
These are the moments we’ve always wished other people could hear—the real, *no edits*, NO-BS chats where nothing is off-limits. We’re talking about the stuff that hits you right in the gut, the kind of truths that stick with you, and the kind of honesty that’ll make you feel like you’re sitting right there with us.
Mary is BACK, and this conversation is powerful. (You can listen to our first 'Fly on the Wall episode HERE)
She’s opening up about finally leaving her toxic job and the hard lessons she’s learned about boundaries, backhanded compliments, and navigating a toxic work environment—especially when narcissistic behavior is at play.
The biggest realization? Toxic relationships don’t just happen in romance. Mary recognized the signs but didn’t immediately connect the dots—because this time, it wasn’t a romantic relationship. It was work. And yet, the patterns were exactly the same.
We also dive into:- How to spot red flags in any relationship—work, friendships, family, and more- How Mary reclaimed her independence and started living for herself again- Her firsthand experience escaping an abusive ex (who nearly took her life) and reclaiming her power over the last four years- The wake-up call that made her finally see the truth- How to redirect your energy into your passions instead of draining relationships- The role of true friends—the ones who stand by you, help you see the light, and remind you of your worth
If you’ve ever doubted yourself, felt trapped in a situation that was slowly draining you, or wondered “why does this keep happening?”—this episode is for you.
You don’t have to stay stuck. And as Mary put its: don’t have to let anyone rob you of your sunshine.
If this episode resonated with you, we’d love for you to join us in the Soundboard community, where these kinds of raw, honest conversations happen regularly. Together, we can continue to build spaces that support and nurture our journeys.
And as always, if you enjoyed this episode, share it with someone who needs to hear it and let us know your thoughts.
Let’s continue talking about the things that matter TOGETHER. And who knows—you might just feel like a fly on the wall in the best way possible.

Episode Throwback: Self Love Isn’t Selfish (Hold the Eye Roll & Stay with Me—This One’s Different!)

Tonight, I’m speaking at Trailblaz-HER (a night of community & connection with other women) and the conversation is really centered around worthiness and breaking free from the conditioning that holds us back. This episode throwback is the perfect continuation of what I’ll be sharing on stage—so whether you’re at the event or not, this message is for you!
I originally recorded this episode last month, and it has quickly become my most listened-to episode. Clearly, this message is hitting home for a lot of people, so I knew I had to bring it back for those who haven’t heard it yet—or need to hear it again.
I think this might be my favorite episode to date, y'all. I literally grabbed my dictionary a few times because—spoiler—I needed to get clear on what words like selfish and perfection actually mean. (And trust me, the definitions will surprise you.) Here's what I'm jamming out about:
The difference between your self and your ego—because you are NOT the loudest voice in your head.
The power of self-reflection and introspection in understanding your thoughts and emotions.
How societal and family conditioning shapes our beliefs—and how to unlearn the stuff that doesn’t serve us.
Reparenting yourself, parenting differently, and showing up with more mindfulness and compassion.
Ditching perfectionism. (Don’t worry, I define that too. and you will be REALLY surprised by it's definition )
Checking in with my energy every day and adjusting my plans without feeling guilty—and why you should try it too.
I also talk about the importance of finding—or creating—safe spaces for healing and growth. Whether that’s through personal reflection or connecting with a supportive community, it’s all about surrounding yourself with what helps you thrive.
Speaking of community… If you’re ready to get off the sidelines, join The Soundboard—my virtual space for real talk, connection, and support.
Let’s connect!Find me on Instagram @hottakesonhealing or visit www.jessleone.com
If this episode resonates with you, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share it with someone who needs to hear it!

Episode #15: The Hardest Thing to Admit—You Have a Choice with Shondra Leigh

The hardest thing to admit? You have a choice.
Because once you do, you have to own the choices that haven’t made you happy—and that’s where real change begins.
This episode was recorded LIVE in our Soundboard community, where we dive deep into accessible somatic techniques to help you ground into your body and regulate your nervous system—because the issues are in our tissues. 
🔥 Key Takeaways:
Movement as Release: Whether it’s dancing, stretching, or subtle micro-movements, repetitive motion allows the body to relax and let go of tension.
Orienting for Grounding: Start externally—what are you looking at? What’s around you? Then, tune in internally—what sensations are you feeling?
Creating Safety in the Body: Learn how to put yourself in a stance of security and connection with the earth. You can only heal when you feel safe.
Humming Technique: A simple yet powerful tool to interrupt intrusive thoughts and regulate the nervous system.
We also discuss the Reclamation Retreat and the power of choosing how you show up for yourself.
💡 Final Thought: You can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make it thirsty. The same goes for healing—you have to want the change.
If you want to connect with me, you can find me on Instagram (@hottakesonhealing) or visit my website at www.jessleone.com.
To connect with Shondra, follow her on Instagram (@shondraeleigh) or check out her over at: https://anantawellnessspa.com/themindbodymaster.
Want to be part of the next LIVE conversation? Join us inside The Soundboard and connect with a community that’s all about growth, healing, and real talk!
Don't forget to like, subscribe, and leave a review to keep the conversation going! We will see you next week on Hot Takes on Healing! 

Episode Throwback: (This Episode *JUST* Might Save Your Life) – ”New Cells Every Day” with Amy Conroy

Whether you missed it the first time or need a reminder, this conversation with Amy Conroy is packed with insights that will land differently depending on where you are in your journey.
Amy and I are friends in real life, and over the past few months, we’ve spent a lot of time together—especially after she joined one of my recent workshops. Her story is one of the most incredible I’ve ever heard, which is why I knew this episode needed to be re-aired. You don’t want to miss it.
Amy is a true anomaly—she beat an incredibly rare and aggressive cancer, and her journey not only transformed her own life but contributed to medical advancements. She shares how, even on her hardest days, she reminded herself: new cells every day. This mantra became her anchor, a reminder of renewal, healing, and the power of small, daily victories.
She also introduces her powerful concept of "invisible paint"—an energy so strong that people notice when it’s missing. It’s a testament to the power we all carry within us, even when we don’t realize it.
Hit play and soak up this powerful conversation. Then, let us know—what’s YOUR invisible paint?
If this episode resonated with you, we’d love for you to join us in the Soundboard community, where these kinds of raw, honest conversations happen regularly. Together, we can continue to build spaces that support and nurture our journeys.
And as always, if you enjoyed this episode, share it with someone who needs to hear it and let us know your thoughts.
Remember to subscribe, share your thoughts in a review, and stay tuned for our next conversation on Hot Takes on Healing!

Episode Throwback: Unlocking Your Soul Path & Escaping the “Fire Tower” with Barbara Yager

So nice, I had to post it twice.
There are a few episodes I always go back and listen to—because the message hits every time.
And this is one of them.
Whether you missed it the first time or need a reminder, this episode with Barbara Yager is packed with insights that will hit differently depending on where you are in your journey.
Barb is an intuitive consultant, coach, and author known for empowering spiritual seekers with tools to align their lives with their soul's purpose. With over a decade of experience guiding clients through transformation, she combines her extensive knowledge of the Akashic Records with powerful coaching practices to help individuals and businesses find true alignment and unlock their potential.
We dive deep into what it means to live authentically from the soul level, and Barb shares invaluable insights on how we can realign our energies to make the greatest impact in our lives. 
Curious about the fire tower and whether you’re stuck in it? You’ll have to tune in to find out what that means and why most of us aren’t supposed to be there!
👇🏼👇🏼👇🏼
Book a reading or connect further with her HERE!

Episode #14: The Overlooked Secret—Celebration & Compassion

Life isn’t always a straight climb up—sometimes it’s a goddamn rollercoaster.
But here’s the thing: No matter what season you’re in, you deserve self-compassion. You deserve to recognize how far you’ve come. And you deserve to celebrate yourself—right now, not just when you hit some imaginary finish line.
In this episode, I go LIVE in 'The Soundboard' to reflect on my own life—what’s changed, what’s stayed the same, and how I’ve learned to stop comparing my journey to everyone else’s. We’re talking about:
🔥 KNOWING your why & ASKING why—because getting to the root of what drives you is the key to truly knowing yourself.🔥 Having compassion for yourself in the tougher seasons—because beating yourself up won’t get you where you want to go, boo boo.🔥 Recognizing your growth—it’s easy to focus on what’s next, but have you taken a second to appreciate what you’ve already done? (Our members reflect on this one alongside me!)🔥 The importance of ‘borrowed belief’—why you don’t need to “fake it till you make it,” but you can lean on others’ belief in you until you believe it yourself.
Join our community where we dive deeper, support each other, and have the kind of unfiltered conversations you won’t find anywhere else.
AND—big news!
We’re taking this energy offline for the first time ever! Join us THIS SATURDAY, March 1 at ETV in East Haven, CT, from 11-2 PM for our first-ever LIVE podcast recording & community event! (A HUGE thank you to MMoonchild Scented Creations for sponsoring our event!)
This is your chance to connect, network, and be part of something special—whether you're looking to meet like-minded people, grow your small business, or just soak up the energy of a live show! You don’t want to miss this!!
Friendly reminder to PLEASEEE subscribe, comment, review, and stay tuned for our next episode! We will see you next week!

Episode #13: The S#IT NO ONE Talks About — The Part AFTER the Pain

Sometimes ya just gotta hit record on a GOOD conversation. Excuse the low quality audio — it was worth the high quality conversation. 
My beautiful friend, Mindy and I went LIVE back in 2024 in The Soundboard and had a powerful conversation about her healing journey over the last five years. What we've learned is healing isn’t just about moving through the hard stuff—it’s about learning to exist in the good without waiting for the other shoe to drop. 
Mindy also shares how participating in ketamine clinical trials changed her life, helping her break through emotional barriers, shift her perspective, and truly feel a sense of peace for the first time. We also talk about:
The fear of things being too good and why we wait for something to go wrong,
Why healing doesn’t mean bypassing hard emotions (especially ANGER)—it means facing them head-on,
Why you DON'T actually need an apology from the people who hurt you,
Taking stock of your life and your relationships,
How to stop living in survival mode and start embracing the life you worked for, and
The reality of healing: it’s not just about fixing pain, it’s about learning to accept joy.
You. Are. Not. Broken.
You are still you underneath the pain, the trauma, the emotions—you are not what happened to you. And when you finally start to uncover you, it helps to have people in your corner reminding you that you’re not alone. When you decide to burn it all to the ground, to walk away from what no longer serves you, to rebuild from scratch… you need a support system. Healing isn’t a solo journey.
👇👇👇
This episode was streamed and recorded LIVE in our community ⁠—a space where we dive deeper into conversations like this and connect on a more personal level. Want to be part of the action and get exclusive access to behind-the-scenes content? Join us ⁠HERE⁠! And don’t miss our first-ever in-person LIVE podcast and community event, sponsored by MMoonchild Scented Creations on March 1st, 11am-2pm!
(Friendly reminder to PLEASEEE subscribe, comment, review, and stay tuned for our next episode!)