Do you ever feel like you’re just trying to keep your head above water, constantly living in "survival mode" and waiting for the other shoe to drop? In this episode, Dr. B sits down with Amanda (MA in Professional Counseling) to explore how we can move past simply surviving and begin building a life we truly love.

Amanda shares her deeply personal journey—from navigating the heartbreak of losing her mother to early-onset dementia, to realizing that having "big feelings" isn't a weakness, but rather a vital strength for showing up for others. Together, they discuss why "fixing" ourselves is a trap, how to build the capacity to hold deep sorrow, and why true healing happens in community rather than self-sufficiency.

In This Episode:

• Unpacking the "Good Girl" Narrative: How people-pleasing can lead to losing your authentic self
• Surviving vs. Thriving: Moving out of survival mode and into meaningful living
• Building Emotional Capacity: Holding big stories and deep grief without being crushed
• The Power of Community: Why we aren't meant to be entirely self-sufficient

Resources & Links Mentioned:

• Free Live Training: Register for the Free Mentally STRONG Training
• Amanda's Organization: Hope House Canon City
• Join the Mission: Sign up for our mailing list
• Official Website: Mentally STRONG

About Amanda: Amanda holds a Master’s in Professional Counseling from Colorado Christian University and has dedicated 15 years to supporting young mothers. At Hope House Canon City, she works to eliminate barriers for teen moms and their children by providing resources, healthy family structures, and a supportive living community.

About Your Host: Dr. Cristi Bundukamara (Ed.D, PMHNP-BC) is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Doctorate in Healthcare Education. Having navigated profound personal trials, Dr. B created the Mentally STRONG Method to help others manage stress, process trauma, and cultivate mental strength.

Connect with Dr. B & Mentally STRONG:

• Facebook: Dr. Cristi Bundukamara
• Instagram: @cristibundukamara
• YouTube: Dr. B Mentally STRONG