In this episode, Dr. Kim tackles the people-pleasing trap and shows why a firm, guilt-free “no” is a radical act of self-love. She explains how chronic yes-ing drains time, peace, and self-worth; unpacks the roots of guilt (upbringing, trauma, FOMO); and offers five practical strategies—clear, apology-free refusals, “no-but” alternatives, delayed responses, self-affirming talk, and low-stakes practice. Listeners are challenged to reject one draining request this week, reclaim that time for true restoration, and share their #MyUnapologeticNo stories to inspire others.

Dr. Kim R. Grimes and relationship-coach Todd Payne reveal how hidden “comfort-zone” patterns keep us stuck and why real growth—whether rebuilding after a wildfire or launching a new dream—demands stepping past them. Using the Enneagram, Todd shows couples (and listeners) how to spot these mental bars, replace fear with empathy, and build change through tiny wins. The episode ends with Dr. Kim’s five-step challenge: take one small risk, name the fear, picture the payoff, get an accountability buddy, and celebrate every micro-victory—because hope, not safety, is the engine of unapologetic progress.

Dr. Kim R. Grimes explains that personal boundaries—clear, consistent limits on what you will and will not accept—are the cornerstone of healthy relationships. She outlines a five-step process: recognize your triggers, communicate limits concisely, enforce them without wavering, avoid lengthy justifications, and anticipate pushback from those who profit from your over-giving. Saying “no” is reframed as self-care rather than selfishness, and listeners are challenged to set one concrete boundary this week to protect their peace, energy, and self-respect.

In today's episode, we dive deep into how perfectionism quietly steals your joy and keeps you stuck in your head, chasing standards you can never really meet. We're talking openly about the hidden anxiety and constant dissatisfaction that perfectionism brings, and how it's often disguised as ambition or excellence. Plus, I'll be sharing practical, real-life strategies to help you break free from perfectionism, shift your mindset, and finally rediscover the joy in just being yourself—flaws, mistakes, and all. It's time to let go of perfect and start truly living again!

Here is something that every single one of us has dealt with at some point—limiting beliefs.

You know those little voices in your head that whisper:

• ‘I’m not smart enough.’
• ‘I could never do that.’
• ‘Success is for other people, not me.’

These beliefs feel real, but they are nothing more than stories we’ve created and have been conditioned to believe. As human beings, we are so very good at creating stories in our heads. We’re going to rewrite those stories. So, if you’ve ever felt stuck, if you’ve ever doubted yourself, or if you’re tired of holding yourself back—this episode is for you.

Comparing yourself to others is a universal human experience. Whether we admit it or not, at some point, we’ve all looked at someone else’s life, their achievements, relationships, appearance, or success and thought, ‘Why am I not there yet?’ This episode delves into the reasons behind this tendency and more importantly, provides you with tangible tools and mindset shifts to break free from this cycle and finally embrace your unique journey.

Leaving a lasting legacy is not some abstract concept. It is the result of one’s hard work empowered by love and purpose. My mother, Marcia Alethia Clayton, is the most extraordinary woman I have ever known, and she left a powerful and indelible legacy of unwavering devotion and determination. I dedicate this episode to her, a woman who lived 84 years and dedicated her life to raising eight children on her own. Join me in looking back on the unconditional love she poured into us and how it continues to inspire us to live a purposeful and fulfilling life.

In today’s fast-paced world, we’re constantly overstimulated—social media notifications, endless entertainment options, and instant gratification at every turn. This can throw our dopamine systems out of balance, leaving us feeling unmotivated, scattered, and even unhappy. In this episode, Tammy Cooper, CEO of Technologent, joins the conversation to explore how dopamine influences our focus, motivation, and overall well-being. If you’ve ever struggled with procrastination, felt stuck in a cycle of distraction, or noticed mood swings after scrolling social media, dopamine might be the culprit. But here’s the good news: we can take control. Tammy shares insights on how understanding dopamine can help us stay focused, enhance memory, regulate mood, and reclaim our motivation in an overstimulated world.