There comes a point when pushing through stops working.

Not because you've failed.

Not because you're weak.

But because you've been carrying more than anyone realizes for far too long.

In this episode of At the Counter with the Baking Pastor, Laura sits down with Heidi Blackie for an honest conversation about burnout, chronic illness, grief, identity, and what happens when life asks us to slow down.

For years, Heidi was the strong one. The helper. The one who kept going.

Then chronic illness changed everything.

Together, Laura and Heidi explore what it means to let go of old expectations, navigate seasons of loss, and discover a different kind of strength. One rooted in self-compassion, honesty, and learning to trust yourself again.

This conversation isn't about giving up.

It's about finding a gentler way forward.

In This Episode

• What it feels like when strength becomes exhausting
• Living with chronic illness and invisible struggles
• Grief, loss, and the stories we carry
• Why self-compassion matters more than self-criticism
• The role of gratitude during difficult seasons
• Setting boundaries without guilt
• Letting go of old expectations
• Finding strength that doesn't require holding everything together

About Heidi

Heidi Blackie is a former occupational therapist, speaker, and guide for women navigating burnout, chronic illness, and major life transitions.

After facing years of chronic illness and profound personal loss, Heidi began a journey of healing that transformed how she understood strength, resilience, and self-trust. Today she helps women reconnect with themselves, release what no longer serves them, and move forward with greater clarity and compassion.

Counter Pause

Take a slow breath.

What feels heavy right now?

What have you been carrying that may no longer belong on your shoulders?

You don't have to solve it today.

Just notice.

Breath Prayer

Breathe in: God of compassion...

Breathe out: Teach me to rest.

Continue the Conversation

If something in today's conversation resonated with you, Heidi has created a space where you can continue exploring that gently and at your own pace.

Website:
https://www.unshakableme.com

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

You'll find resources for women navigating burnout, chronic illness, and seasons of change, along with practical tools for reconnecting with yourself and moving forward with greater self-compassion.

A Favorite Reminder from This Conversation

"You don't have to keep proving your strength."

Closing

Pull up a chair.

You are allowed to rest.

Even here.

If this episode met you where you are, I’d love to hear from you. What stayed with you?

Support the show

The counter is always open.

If you’d like a quiet place to sit with what this stirred, A Seat at the Counter: A Soul Pause Journal is available here: https://amzn.to/4c4RSIv

*****

Considering being a guest on At the Counter With the Baking Pastor?
I invite you to listen to 1–2 recent episodes first to get a feel for the tone and heart of the conversations.

If it feels like a good fit, you’re welcome to reach out to me directly on PodMatch and share a bit about what you’d love to bring to the counter: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/atthecounterwiththebakingpastor

I’m especially drawn to conversations that are honest, reflective, and rooted in real-life experience.