No Shrinking Violets

No Shrinking Violets
Podcast Description
No Shrinking Violets is all about what it truly means for women to take up their space in the world – mind, body and spirit. Mary Rothwell, licensed therapist and certified integrative mental health practitioner, has seen women “stay small” and fit into the space in life that they have been conditioned to believe they deserve. Drawing on 35 years in the mental health field and from her perspective as a woman who was often told to "stay in your lane," Mary discusses how early experiences, society and sometimes our own limiting beliefs can convince us that living inside guardrails is the best -- or only -- option. She'll explore how to recognize our unique essential nature and how to use that to empower a new narrative.Through topics that span psychology, friendships, nature and even gut-brain health, Mary creates a space that is inspiring and authentic - where she celebrates the intuition and power of women who want to chart their own course and program their own GPS.Mary's topics will include sleep and supplements and nutrition and how to live like a plant. (Yes, you read that right - the example of plants is often the most insightful path to knowing what we truly need to feel fulfilled). She’ll talk about setting boundaries, communicating, and relationships, and explore mental health and wellness: trauma and resilience, how our food impacts our mood and the power of simple daily habits. And so much more!As a gardener, Mary knows that violets have been misjudged for centuries and are actually one of the most resilient and ecologically important plants in her native garden. Like violets, women are often underestimated, and they can even mistake their unique gifts for weaknesses. Join Mary to explore all the ways the vibrant and strong violet is an example for finding fulfillment in our own lives.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The show explores various themes centered around women's empowerment, mental health, and personal growth, covering topics such as invisible labor in the workplace, the complexities of autoimmune diseases, the importance of rest and renewal, and the concept of essential nature. Episode highlights include discussions on setting boundaries, navigating chronic illness, and drawing parallels between human and plant needs for fulfillment.

No Shrinking Violets is all about what it truly means for women to take up their space in the world – mind, body and spirit. Mary Rothwell, licensed therapist and certified integrative mental health practitioner, has seen women “stay small” and fit into the space in life that they have been conditioned to believe they deserve. Drawing on 35 years in the mental health field and from her perspective as a woman who was often told to “stay in your lane,” Mary discusses how early experiences, society and sometimes our own limiting beliefs can convince us that living inside guardrails is the best — or only — option. She’ll explore how to recognize our unique essential nature and how to use that to empower a new narrative.Through topics that span psychology, friendships, nature and even gut-brain health, Mary creates a space that is inspiring and authentic – where she celebrates the intuition and power of women who want to chart their own course and program their own GPS.
Mary’s topics will include sleep and supplements and nutrition and how to live like a plant. (Yes, you read that right – the example of plants is often the most insightful path to knowing what we truly need to feel fulfilled). She’ll talk about setting boundaries, communicating, and relationships, and explore mental health and wellness: trauma and resilience, how our food impacts our mood and the power of simple daily habits. And so much more!
As a gardener, Mary knows that violets have been misjudged for centuries and are actually one of the most resilient and ecologically important plants in her native garden. Like violets, women are often underestimated, and they can even mistake their unique gifts for weaknesses. Join Mary to explore all the ways the vibrant and strong violet is an example for finding fulfillment in our own lives.
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When my guest Amita Sharma first experienced perimenopause symptoms a decade ago, she thought something was medically wrong with her. No one—not even her doctors—had ever mentioned this natural transition that affects every woman. This shared silence keeps countless women suffering alone, believing they're the only ones struggling with brain fog, anxiety, sleep issues, and sexual health changes.
What most women don't realize is that inadequate care during perimenopause can lead to serious long-term health consequences. Shocking research shows that 80% of American women over 60 develop chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and cognitive decline—conditions that proper perimenopause management might help prevent. While conventional medicine often offers only hormone replacement or symptom-masking medications, holistic approaches provide comprehensive solutions that address root causes.
The problem? These integrative solutions typically come with prohibitive price tags. That's why Amita co-founded Nourish Doc, a platform making holistic women's health accessible with options starting at just $5 monthly. During our conversation, Amita shares simple yet powerful daily practices any woman can implement: morning breathwork for stress management, gut-supporting herbal teas to start your day, and balanced nutrition with mindful protein and carbohydrate proportions.
We also dive into the rarely discussed topic of sexual health changes during menopause, exploring how pelvic floor specialists, breathing techniques, and even specialized practices like orgasmic meditation can help women maintain intimate wellness through hormonal transitions. Whether you're already navigating perimenopause or want to prepare for what's ahead, this episode offers practical wisdom and the reassurance that you don't have to travel this journey alone.
You can find all the wonderful resources Amita discussed on the show at https://www.nourishdoc.com/
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Do you struggle to get restful sleep, or do you drag yourself through the day, exhausted? What if things could change in as little as 4 weeks? Honestly, there's a program that could change your life! Learn more HERE.
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