Mother’s Day can bring up so many emotions when you no longer have your mom.

In this special 2 B’s in a Pod conversation, my dear friend Binu Dhindsa and I open up about being part of a club no one ever wants to join…the club of experiencing life, and especially Mother’s Day, without your mom here in human form.

Together, we share the grief, the tears, the anger, the memories, the signs, the love, and the meaningful ways we’ve learned to honour our mothers while also nurturing ourselves.

This is an honest, compassionate conversation for any woman who feels the ache of missing Mom this Mother’s Day.

Our hope is that this episode helps you process your emotions, feel less alone, and gently find your own way through the day.

And if you know someone who may need this conversation, please share it with her.

Connect with My Co-Host: Binu DhindsaHost of High Vibes with Binu Listen to her podcast, High Vibes with Binu https://www.binu.ca/high-vibesFollow her on Instagram: @binudhindsa

Website: www.binu.ca

Connect with Brenda Jasmin:

Follow Brenda on Instagram: @_brendajasmin

Get Brenda’s Guide on “How to Be Happier in Uncertain Times”: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/happier

Website: www.brendajasmin.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendajasmin/

Original music composed by Leah Hidalgo

www.leahhidalgo.com

Do you keep telling yourself that once life calms down, you’ll finally focus on yourself and the next chapter you really want?

Once there’s more time.

Once people need you less.

Once things feel less overwhelming.

Then you’ll write the book, get healthy, start the business, pursue the dream, or make the change.

The reality is that life doesn’t magically settle down in midlife, it simply changes shape.

Between aging parents, adult children, grief, health issues, work responsibilities, emotional labour, and the general unpredictability of life, many women find themselves waiting for a “perfect season” that never fully arrives.

In this episode of She Flourishes, Brenda shares an honest conversation about why waiting for the right time can quietly keep us stuck, and why meaningful forward movement is still possible even when life feels messy, full, and far from ideal.

Drawing from what she is witnessing inside her Meant for More coaching program where women are writing books, launching businesses, creating passion projects, and stepping into new dreams while simultaneously navigating very real life challenges, Brenda offers a refreshing reminder that progress in midlife is rarely linear.

Messy progress is still progress.

Brenda also shares a personal windsurfing story and metaphor about learning to adjust to changing conditions instead of waiting for perfect wind. It’s a powerful reminder that we can keep moving forward even when circumstances shift.

If you’ve been feeling stuck, overwhelmed, discouraged, or like now just isn’t the time, this episode will help you shift out of waiting mode and back into meaningful momentum.

In this episode:

-why women often postpone their goals and dreams in midlife

-the hidden all-or-nothing thinking that keeps us stuck

-why messy progress is still meaningful progress

-how to keep moving forward when life feels overwhelming

-a simple mindset shift to help you stop waiting for the perfect time

Here’s how you can connect with Brenda Jasmin:

Instagram: @_brendajasmin

Website: www.brendajasmin.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendajasmin/

Download Brenda’s Gratitude Guide:

https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/gratitudeguide

Get Brenda’s Guide on “How to Be Happier in Uncertain Times”: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/happier

Original music composed by Leah Hidalgo

www.leahhidalgo.com

Today we’re celebrating Episode 150 and it’s a powerful one.

After a short break, I’m back with 5 life-changing lessons inspired by the Artemis II mission to the moon. This isn’t about space, it’s about what’s possible for YOU.

If you’ve ever wondered if it’s too late, felt stuck waiting for the “right time,” or are craving more meaning, joy, and purpose… this episode is your reminder:

- It’s not too late

- You don’t need to be perfect

- And you are meant for more

We’ll explore awe, midlife possibility, human connection, and why the most meaningful moments in life have nothing to do with achievement, and everything to do with love.

Here’s how you can connect with Brenda Jasmin:

Instagram: @_brendajasmin

Website: www.brendajasmin.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendajasmin/

Download Brenda’s Gratitude Guide:

https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/gratitudeguide

Get Brenda’s Guide on “How to Be Happier in Uncertain Times”: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/happier

Original music composed by Leah Hidalgo

www.leahhidalgo.com

Do affirmations actually work? Or are they just self-delusion dressed up as positivity?

In this solo episode of The She Flourishes Podcast, Brenda Jasmin revisits affirmations through a science-backed lens.

If you grew up in the 90s, you probably remember Stuart Smalley staring into a mirror on Saturday Night Live declaring, “I’m good enough, I’m smart enough, and doggone it, people like me.”

It was funny, and it worked, because affirmations had already started to feel a little ridiculous.

For years, motivational culture encouraged us to repeat bold statements like:

“I’m healthy, wealthy and wise.”

“Money is flowing to me in many ways.”

“I am wildly successful.”

“I am fearless.”

But do affirmations actually work?

In this episode, Brenda unpacks:

-What the science really says about self-affirmations

-Why some affirmations can actually make you feel worse

-The 2009 research showing overly positive statements can backfire

-Self-Affirmation Theory and how reflecting on core values protects self-integrity

-A recent American Psychological Association study showing values-based affirmation exercises reliably increase well-being

-A 2025 meta-analysis reviewing 180+ trials and 22,000+ participants demonstrating measurable improvements in psychological well-being

And most importantly, how to upgrade affirmations so they actually support your growth.

If you’re a woman over 40 redefining career, money, health, confidence, or purpose, this episode will show you how to shift from fantasy affirmations to identity-based affirmations that build self-trust and drive action.

And when grounded in identity and action, they can strengthen self-trust and improve well-being.

References mentioned in this episode:

American Psychological Association. (2025). Self-affirmations can boost well-being. APA Press Release. https://www.apa.org/pubs/journals/releases/amp-amp0001591.pdf

Zhang, Y., Chen, B., Hu, X., & Wang, M. (2025). The impact of self-affirmation interventions on well-being: A meta-analysis, American Psychologist. https://www.apa.org/pubs/journals/releases/amp-amp0001591.pdf

Steele, C. M. (1988). The Psychology of Self-Affirmation (Self-Affirmation Theory). https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/chapter/bookseries/abs/pii/S0065260108602294

Wood, J. V., Perunovic, W. Q. E., & Lee, J. W. (2009). Positive self-statements: Power for some, peril for others. Psychological Science, 20(7), 860–866. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19493324/

Here’s how you can connect with Brenda Jasmin:

Instagram: @_brendajasmin

Website: www.brendajasmin.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendajasmin/

Download Brenda’s Gratitude Guide:

https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/gratitudeguide

Get Brenda’s Guide on “How to Be Happier in Uncertain Times”: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/happier

Original music composed by Leah Hidalgo

www.leahhidalgo.com

Are signs and synchronicities real… or are we simply noticing what we’re primed to see? In this “Two B’a in a Pod” conversation, Brenda and her guest, Binu Dhindsa explore the intersection of science and spirituality…from the reticular activating system (RAS) and “magical thinking,” to feathers, repeating numbers, and those moments that feel like a wink from the universe. Whether you’re woo-curious or science-first, this episode offers a grounded way to think about signs: not as rules to follow, but as invitations to pause, go inward, and trust your next step.

Loved This Episode? If this conversation sparked something in you, share it with a friend who’s woo-curious (or science-skeptical 😉). And if you’d like more “Two B’s in a Pod” episodes, leave a rating and review, it truly helps the show reach more women.

Connect with My Co-Host: Binu DhindsaHost of High Vibes with Binu Listen to her podcast, High Vibes with Binu https://www.binu.ca/high-vibesFollow her on Instagram: @binudhindsa

Website: www.binu.ca

Connect with Brenda Jasmin:

Follow Brenda on Instagram: @_brendajasmin

Get Brenda’s Guide on “How to Be Happier in Uncertain Times”: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/happier

Website: www.brendajasmin.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendajasmin/

Original music composed by Leah Hidalgo

www.leahhidalgo.com

Winter in Canada can feel long, dark, and relentless…and when you add polar vortex temperatures, heavy snowfall, and limited daylight, it’s no wonder many of us start to feel the winter heaviness.

In this episode, Brenda shares compassionate, practical ways to support your mood, energy, and nervous system during deep winter, without toxic positivity or unrealistic expectations.

This is not about “loving winter” or pretending it’s easy. It’s about learning how to be kinder to yourself, work with your body, and create small pockets of warmth, light, and connection that make the season more manageable, and even gently nourishing.

You’ll hear about simple science-backed strategies, insights from Scandinavian cultures, and realistic ideas you can experiment with right now.

In this episode, we explore:

-Why winter heaviness, tiredness, and low mood are normal

-How daylight (not just sunshine) impacts mood and circadian rhythm

-Easy ways to increase light exposure in your home

-The power of gentle morning movement

-Creating consistency with sleep in darker months

-Working with your natural energy rhythms

-Why 15 minutes of connection can make a real difference

-The concept of "hygge" and creating cozy on purpose

-Nourishing your body with warm, comforting foods

-Friluftsliv (outdoor living) and embracing small amounts of fresh air

If winter tends to feel heavy for you, this episode offers gentle reminders and doable ideas to help you move through the season with more steadiness, warmth, and self-compassion.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Charles Duhigg, Jan. 2, 2026 Newsletter, The Science of Better: “It’s Really Cold. Here’s How to Stay Happy (With Science)”

Charles Duhigg’s book: Smarter, Faster, Better: The Transformative Power of Real Productivity (Please note that I mistakenly referred to this book as The Science of Better, but that’s the name of his newsletter).

You can order his book here:

Indigo: https://www.indigo.ca/en-ca/smarter-faster-better-the-transformative-power-of-real-productivity/9780385680936.html?searchType=products&searchTerm=Smarter%20Faster%20Bett

Amazon: https://a.co/d/0ZCKqPu

Here’s how you can connect with Brenda Jasmin:

Instagram: @_brendajasmin

Website: www.brendajasmin.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendajasmin/

Download Brenda’s Gratitude Guide:

https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/gratitudeguide

Get Brenda’s Guide on “How to Be Happier in Uncertain Times”: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/happier

Original music composed by Leah Hidalgo

www.leahhidalgo.com

Content Note: This episode contains discussion of serious illness, medical trauma, stroke, coma, and organ transplantation. While this is ultimately a story of hope, resilience, and healing, some listeners may find parts of the journey emotionally intense. Please check in with yourself and listen in a way that feels supportive for you.

In today’s deeply moving episode of the She Flourishes Podcast, I sit down with my friend Jenn Dinis to share her extraordinary story of resilience, hope, and the power of the human spirit.

Jenn’s journey spans decades…from being diagnosed with diabetes as a teenager, to kidney failure, years on dialysis, multiple setbacks, a stroke and coma, and finally the life-changing call that led to her kidney transplant. Along the way, she faced unimaginable uncertainty, heartbreak, and fear, yet never let go of hope.

This is a story about waiting. About fighting when you’re exhausted. About the people who carry you when you feel like you can’t go on. And about the profound gift of organ donation…a gift that saves lives.

Jenn shares what it was like to live on dialysis, to wait for “the call,” to experience false alarms, to survive a stroke, and to finally receive the kidney that saved her life. She also opens up about survivor’s guilt, writing to her donor’s family, and how this journey has changed her forever.

Most of all, this is a story of courage, and a reminder that even in our darkest seasons, hope is still possible.

✨ In this episode, we talk about:

Jenn’s long journey with diabetes and kidney disease

Life on dialysis and what it means to depend on a machine to stay alive

The emotional rollercoaster of waiting for a transplant

False alarms and heartbreak along the way

Surviving a stroke and coma

The life-changing transplant call

The miracle of organ donation

Survivor’s guilt and writing to her donor’s family

Healing, gratitude, and finding meaning after trauma

What keeps us going when life feels unbearable

If you or someone you love is facing illness, uncertainty, or a difficult season, this conversation is for you.

Jenn’s story is a powerful reminder that you are stronger than you think, and that even after the longest, hardest road, new beginnings are possible.

About Organ Donation

If Jenn’s story has inspired you to learn more about becoming an organ donor, I’ve included information in the show notes about how to register in Ontario and how to talk to your family about your wishes.

Register to become a donor or check your registration status:

https://beadonor.ca/

Paired exchange kidney donation program:  Kidney paired donation is a program that matches transplant candidates with suitable living donors. It gives people the chance to become a living kidney donor while ensuring that someone they want to help receives a needed kidney, even if they are not a direct match. https://www.blood.ca/en/organs-tissues/living-organ-donation/kidney-paired-donation

Here’s how you can connect with Brenda Jasmin:

Email: brenda@bjasmin.com

Instagram: @_brendajamin

https://www.instagram.com/_brendajasmin/

Website: www.brendajasmin.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendajasmin/

Original music for She Flourishes podcast composed by Leah Hidalgo

www.leahhidalgo.com

Happy 2026 and welcome back to the She Flourishes podcast. In this solo episode, Brenda hops on the mic for a cozy, free-flow conversation about what it really feels like to begin a new year in midlife without pressure, perfection, or the “new year, new you” hustle.

Brenda reflects on the shift she’s noticing in New Year messaging, away from fixing ourselves and toward easing in with compassion, intention, and grace. She shares a personal update on her health journey, what she learned from losing and regaining weight, and how she’s embracing the idea of “rebuilding” rather than starting over.

You’ll also hear about:

• Why January doesn’t need to be a full sprint

• How self-compassion creates more motivation than self-criticism

• What rebuilding your health, strength, and confidence can look like

• The power of staying active as we age

• Why it’s not too late to go after what you love

• Lessons from skiing at 55 alongside 80-year-old athletes

• The mindset that keeps us moving forward instead of shrinking our lives

If you’re feeling tired after the holidays, behind on your goals, or unsure how you want this year to look, this episode is your permission slip to slow down, reflect, and listen to what your heart really wants.

Because 2026 doesn’t need to start with pressure. It can start with intention, courage, and joy.

Grab a cup of tea and join Brenda for a gentle, encouraging conversation to begin the year feeling grounded, inspired, and hopeful.

If you’re ready to design a life you love in 2026 and want support along the way, Brenda shares how you can work with her one-on-one as your life coach. Just send her an email at brenda@bjasmin.com

Resources mentioned in this episode:

She Flourishes Episodes on Goal-Setting and Habits:

Episode 116. Tiny Habits, Big Results https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/9nVNV98fSZb

Episode 102. Crush Your 2025 Goals with Caroline Adams Miller

https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/lld85tegSZb

She Flourishes Episode with Martha Munroe: 144. Breaking Free from Diet Culture: A New Approach to Exercise with Martha Munroe https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/uG3T3uO3HZb

Here’s how you can connect with Brenda Jasmin:

Instagram: @_brendajasmin

Website: www.brendajasmin.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendajasmin/

Download Brenda’s Gratitude Guide:

https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/gratitudeguide

Get Brenda’s Guide on “How to Be Happier in Uncertain Times”: https://brendajasmin.kartra.com/page/happier

Original music composed by Leah Hidalgo

www.leahhidalgo.com