In this deeply moving and insightful episode, relationship and self-love coach Jonathan Aslay shares his powerful journey of healing after the tragic loss of his son. Through vulnerability and wisdom, Jonathan explores how grief can become a catalyst for growth, why self-worth is non-negotiable in midlife, and how to build meaningful, lasting relationships rooted in authenticity—not just chemistry.

Whether you're navigating midlife dating, recovering from emotional loss, or seeking deeper self-understanding, this episode offers tools and heartfelt truths to help you embrace self-love, develop emotional resilience, and reconnect with purpose.

What you'll learn:

• How grief can lead to profound self-discovery
• Why self-esteem is essential for healthy relationships
• How midlife challenges can become pathways to empowerment
• The impact of attachment styles and self-image on dating
• Why building love on friendship creates deeper connection

Check out Jonathan's Book: "What the Heck is Self Love Anyway?" https://a.co/d/08975RR

Chapters:

00:00 – Opening Reflections: Self-Love and Grief
02:44 – Rediscovering Identity Through Personal Loss
05:53 – Grief as a Catalyst for Self-Love
08:43 – Why Self-Worth Matters More Than Ever in Midlife
11:43 – Personal Growth: The Foundation of Healthy Love
14:32 – Midlife Dating & Self-Perception in a Filtered World
24:41 – Friendship First: A New Model for Relationships
28:00 – The Power of Emotional & Heart-Based Connection
30:53 – Understanding Attachment Styles & Inner Needs
35:52 – Choosing Empowerment Through Radical Self-Love
39:20 – Closing Thoughts: You Are Worth the Journey

🎙️ Stay Connected with Us!
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🌐 Visit our website: survivingtoxicrelationships.org

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In this inspiring episode, Deborah Weed opens up about her powerful transformation—from a high-achieving corporate career to becoming the founder of the Self-Worth Initiative and the Quills Up Movement. 💫

After a life-altering health crisis, Deborah began to reframe her understanding of value, moving from external validation to embracing her intrinsic worth. She shares how a simple 1943 copper penny sparked a personal revolution, leading her to create tools, stories, and a musical called Paisley to help women—especially in midlife—reclaim their creativity and self-worth.

✨ What you'll learn in this episode:

• The difference between self-esteem and self-worth
• Why creativity is a powerful force for healing and transformation
• How women can advocate for themselves in a broken healthcare system
• The emotional cost of disappointment vs. fear
• Why community and connection are non-negotiables for true resilience

🔑 Whether you're navigating midlife, recovering from burnout, or searching for a deeper sense of meaning—Deborah’s wisdom will remind you: You are valuable, even when the world tells you otherwise.

👇 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more soul-nourishing conversations.

🎙️ Stay Connected with Us!
📺 Subscribe on YouTube: @survivingrelationships12
🎵 Follow us on TikTok: @thematadoras
🌐 Visit our website: survivingtoxicrelationships.org

📘 Join our Facebook community: Surviving Toxic Relationships with The Matadoras

In this powerful episode, Lizzie and Deana dive deep into the roots of codependency, how it’s shaped by childhood trauma, and why it often leads to low self-esteem and toxic relationship patterns. Through raw, relatable stories and hard-earned insights, they unpack how codependency shows up in everyday life — from constantly putting others first to struggling with setting boundaries.

You’ll learn why self-care isn’t selfish, how to stop minimizing harmful behavior, and the importance of building a supportive circle while healing. If you're ready to start recognizing red flags, reclaim your voice, and rebuild your confidence — this conversation is for you.

👉 Topics Covered:

• The link between codependency and childhood trauma
• Why codependents often struggle with boundaries and self-worth
• How to spot and shift toxic relationship dynamics
• Steps to begin healing and personal growth
• The power of community and small wins on the path to recovery

💬 “It starts with recognizing you matter — and your needs are valid.”

🔖 Don’t forget to follow, rate & review if this episode resonates — and share with someone who needs to hear it.

🎙️ Stay Connected with Us!
📺 Subscribe on YouTube: @survivingrelationships12
🎵 Follow us on TikTok: @thematadoras
🌐 Visit our website: survivingtoxicrelationships.org

📘 Join our Facebook community: Surviving Toxic Relationships with The Matadoras