KKEP331 – BEWARE THE TEMPTATIONOn this episode of The Karen Kenney Show podcast, I talk about a recent trip to a casino (for my sweetie's gig with Sully Erna of Godsmack) that really got me thinking about the world we live in today. Walking into that place was like stepping into a full-on sensory overload - bombarded by flashing lights, nonstop sounds, and a vibe that just pulls you and your brain in from every direction. It was wild to notice how everything is designed to keep you distracted and consuming, and it made me realize how easy it is to get swept up in all that noise. As I moved through the casino, I couldn’t help but compare it to the way our phones and social media work. Just like the casino, our electronic devices are built to keep us hooked, and chasing that next little dopamine hit. It’s so easy to lose track of time and get pulled away from what really matters, whether it’s connecting with people, being present, or just enjoying the world around us. This experience was a wake-up call for me to check in with myself and ask some honest questions:Where am I getting distracted? What am I letting pull my attention away from the things and people that truly matter? I realized that it’s not about judging ourselves, but about getting real and making sure we’re living on purpose, not just on autopilot. So, if you’re feeling a little lost in all the noise out there or like you’ve been “dopamined into oblivion,” - you’re not alone. I hope this episode inspires you to pause, take a fearless look at where your time and energy are really going, and remember what you’re here to do. Let’s get back to what matters most and leave a little more love behind wherever we go. ❤️ KK’S KEY TAKEAWAYS:• Casinos are designed to create sensory overload and to keep people distracted and consuming – food, booze, gambling, shopping, etc• Modern technology and social media run the same sort of racket and use similar tactics to capture our attention and keep us hooked.• It’s wicked easy to lose sight of what really matters - when we’re constantly bombarded by all kinds of distractions.• Taking time to reflect on where our attention habitually goes can help us live more intentionally.• Being self-aware allows us to focus on meaningful relationships, intentional activities, and our true purpose.• It’s important to pause, ask ourselves honest questions, and make sure we’re not living life on autopilot.• Choosing to use our time, gifts, and energy for love and service - can help us make a difference and leave a positive impact! BIO:Spiritual Mentor and writer Karen Kenney uses humor and dynamic storytelling to bring a down-to-earth, no-BS perspective to self-development.Bringing together tools that coach the conscious and unconscious mind, Karen helps clients deepen their connections with Self, and discover their unique understandings of spirituality. Her practice combines neuroscience, subconscious reprogramming, Integrative Hypnosis, somatic work, spiritual mentoring, and other holistic modalities to help regulate the nervous system, examine internal narratives, remove blocks, and reimagine what’s possible.A passionate yoga teacher, long-time student of A Course in Miracles, and Gateless Writing instructor, Karen is a frequent speaker and retreat leader. Via her programs The Quest and The Nest, she coaches both individuals and groups. With The...
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YOUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS
On this episode of The Karen Kenney Show, I dive into the idea of creating your own personal board of directors. Inspired by my friend’s business and my own journey, I explore what it means to have a group of trusted people in your life who can offer guidance, accountability, and support - kind of like your own “Knights of the Round Table.” I share how this concept goes beyond the corporate world and can be a powerful tool for personal growth and decision-making. I talk about the importance of choosing people with diverse backgrounds, talents, and perspectives. It’s not about having a bunch of “yes” people around you. Instead, you want to curate a group that can challenge you, cheer you on, and help you see things from different angles. I break down the key qualities to look for - like trust, mutual respect, genuine care, and communication styles that will work for you. Members of the board should get you, understand your goals, and want to see you succeed. I also remind us about the responsibility that comes with asking for someone’s time and advice. If you’re going to reach out to your board, show up prepared and be clear about what you need. And remember, you’re the head honcho - you get to decide whose advice to take and when to go your own way. It’s all about gathering perspectives, not handing over your power. At the end of the day, building your own board of directors is a fun way to surround yourself with people who love you, believe in you, and can help you grow. Whether you make it official or just take a moment to appreciate the amazing humans in your life, I hope this episode inspires you to reflect on who’s at your table - and maybe even send a little thank you their way! ❤️ KK’S KEY TAKEAWAYS:• A personal board of directors is a handpicked group of people who offer you guidance and support.• Choose members with diverse backgrounds and perspectives for well-rounded advice.• Select people whose character and experience you respect and admire.• Trust and mutual respect are essential for open and honest conversations.• Board members should understand your goals, values, and who you are.• You want genuine care and a lack of competition or jealousy.• Communication styles should match your needs so you can receive feedback effectively.• Always show up prepared and respect your board members’ time.• You can change your board members as your needs and relationships evolve.• Remember, you are in charge and get to decide which advice to follow and when. BIO:Spiritual mentor and writer Karen Kenney uses humor and dynamic storytelling to bring a down-to-earth, no-BS perspective to self-development.Bringing together tools that coach the conscious and unconscious mind, Karen helps clients deepen their connections with Self, and discover their unique understandings of spirituality. Her practice combines neuroscience, subconscious reprogramming, Integrative Hypnosis, somatics, spiritual mentoring, and other holistic modalities to help regulate the nervous system, examine internal narratives, remove blocks, and reimagine what’s possible.A passionate yoga teacher, long-time student of A Course in Miracles, and Gateless Writing instructor, Karen is a frequent speaker and retreat leader. Via her programs The Quest and The Nest, she coaches individuals and groups. With The Karen Kenney Podcast, she encourages
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STOP BEFORE YOU START
On this episode of The Karen Kenney Show, I talk about the power of stopping before you start - especially when it comes to how we communicate with others. I share a little story about catching myself as I was about to fire off a sarcastic response (classic Masshole move!) and realizing that just because something comes easy or is a habit, doesn’t mean it’s always the best way to show up.Sometimes, it’s worth pausing and asking ourselves, “Is this really how I want to respond?” I dive into how our brains get wired over time for certain automatic reactions, like sarcasm or quick replies, and how the speed of today’s world makes it even harder to slow down. We’re all so used to “instant” responses and moving at the pace of technology, but that doesn’t always serve us - or the people we’re talking to. I talk about checking in with yourself before you hit send -or- how I like to pause before I open my big fat mouth! 😆It’s good to get a grip on where you and your nervous system are at: How’s your mood? Are you tired, angry, hungry, or stressed? Because that stuff totally colors the words, tone, and temperature of how we come across.I also share some of my favorite tricks for being a clearer, more thoughtful communicator - like numbering info in emails, using bold text, and breaking things up with a little more space - so people can actually take it in. It’s all about making things easier for the person on the other end -and- saving yourself from a bunch of back-and-forth later. And, if we all took a second to put ourselves in someone else’s shoes, and how it might feel to be on the receiving end of things, the world would be a much kinder, more compassionate place. So, the big takeaway? Slow down, check in with yourself, and be intentional with your words and actions.Whether you’re writing, talking, or interacting with others in your life, you’ve got the power to choose a new or different way in every moment.Sending you lots of love and encouragement to leave everything and everyone a little better than you found them! ❤️ KK’S KEY TAKEAWAYS:• Stop before you start running your mouth or reacting from conditioning, habits, or patterns. • Pausing before you respond helps you communicate more intentionally and avoid knee-jerk reactions.• Checking in with your mood and mindset before replying to people, emails, and messages can prevent misunderstandings and unnecessary conflict.• Using clear formatting in written communication - like numbering, bold text, and short paragraphs - makes your communication easier for others to understand.• Taking the time to consider how your words will land shows compassion and helps build better relationships.• Try to put yourself in the other person’s shoes and imagine being on the receiving end.• You can always choose a new way to respond, no matter how ingrained your habits have been.• Slowing down and being thoughtful with your words and actions can make a positive difference for you and others. Win-Win! BIO:Spiritual mentor and writer Karen Kenney uses humor and dynamic storytelling to bring a down-to-earth, no-BS perspective to self-development.Bringing together tools that coach the conscious and unconscious mind, Karen helps clients deepen their connections with Self, and discover their unique understandings of spirituality. Her practice combines neuroscience, subconscious reprogramming, Integrative Hypnosis, somatics, spiritual mentoring, and other holistic modalities to help regulate the nervous system, examine internal narratives, remove blocks,...
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OPERATING HEAVY MACHINERY
This episode of The Karen Kenney Show dives into the idea that this whole being human thing is a lot like "operating heavy machinery.” Except nobody ever gave us an instruction manual or a warning label! 😆Inspired by a weird little cold I had and those classic medicine label cautions on the side of the box… I talk about how we’re all out here trying to navigate life, relationships, and our own bewildering minds, often with no clue as to what the heck we’re doing or why we do it. I share how so many of us beat ourselves up for not having it all figured out - when in reality, most of us were never taught the basics of emotional intelligence, self-awareness, or how our brains and bodies even really work!I remind us of the fact that a lot of our struggles come from old patterns, habits, and stories we picked up as kids.And even though that stuff might’ve helped us survive back then, it doesn’t really serve us anymore. I remind you (and myself!) that it’s totally normal to feel confused, overwhelmed, or stuck sometimes, especially when we’re trying to change or grow. The key ingredient that I think is the game changer when it comes to transformational work? Curiosity! You’ve got to be willing to get curious about why you do what you do, think what you think, say what you say, and believe what you believe. You also have to be open to learning new ways of thinking and being. But here’s the thing… wanting change - isn’t the same as - being willing to do what it takes to change.I could share all the tools, practices, and perspective shifts I know, but I can’t make you curious or willing enough to want to do the work.That right there, is an inside job. The good news is, you don’t have to figure it all out alone -or- do it all on your own.Whether it’s working with a mentor, joining a supportive community, or just having someone in your corner, the good news is - help is out there!Remember, you’re not broken, you’re not alone, and you don’t have to keep operating heavy machinery without a manual! ❤️ KK’S KEY TAKEAWAYS:• We’re all “operating heavy machinery” in life, often without any kind of instruction manual or warning label.• Most of us were never taught how to understand our feelings -or- how our brains, bodies, or nervous systems work.• Old habits and survival strategies from childhood can become problematic as adults.• Self-blame is common, but it’s important to remember we’re not supposed to have it all figured out.• Shame sometimes arises too, and having an unshaming witness in your corner helps.• Curiosity about our own patterns and habits is a necessary first step toward real change.• Wanting things to be different - is not the same as - being willing to do the work.• True transformation comes from the inside and can’t be forced on you by others.• Reading books is great - AND - real growth comes from actually putting what you learn into practice.• Nobody can do the growth work for you – but you don’t have to do it all on your own.• Support from a mentor, coach, or a community can be wicked helpful along the way. BIO:Spiritual mentor and writer Karen Kenney uses humor and dynamic storytelling to bring a down-to-earth, no-BS perspective to self-development.Bringing together tools that coach the conscious and unconscious mind, Karen helps clients deepen their connections with Self, and discover their unique understandings of spirituality. Her practice combines neuroscience, subconscious...
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RELATIONSHIPS ARE COLLABORATIONS
On this episode of The Karen Kenney Show, I dive into the idea that all relationships - whether personal or professional - are really just collaborations at heart. Inspired by a chat with my friend Emiline (aka: Emily Aborn – Copywriter and host of the Content with Character Podcast) and a nugget of wisdom from actor Ethan Hawke, I explore who we choose to “collaborate” with in life truly matters. It’s not just about what looks good on paper -or- who’s fun to be around for a quick minute.It's more about finding people who share your values, can communicate well, and genuinely want to see you thrive and shine!I share some of my own stories, too - both the good and the not-so-soothing – experiences of working with others. From college projects and yoga retreats to creative partnerships, the best collaborations always had trust, mutual respect, and a sense of fun at their core!On the flip side, I’ve also experienced those energy-draining partnerships where someone just isn’t open or willing to trust the process or the other people…And let me tell you, that shit is a total grind you don’t want to be stuck in. A big takeaway from this episode is the importance of knowing yourself before you jump into any kind of relationship or collaboration. Be honest about what you bring to the table, what you need, and what you’re willing to give. And don’t forget - sometimes the best collaboration you can have is with yourself, your creativity, or even your pets! 😆So, as you go about your week, I invite you to reflect on your current relationships and collaborations. Are they a good fit? Are you both able to shine? Is there room for both of you?Also, if you’re looking for more inspiration, check out Emily’s “Content with Character” podcast episode on collaboration coming out August 19th.Thanks so much for tuning in, and may you leave every collaboration - and every place you go - a little better than how you found it! KK’S KEY TAKEAWAYS:• All relationships, whether personal or professional, are a form of collaboration.• Choose collaborators and partners who share your values, communicate well, and genuinely support your growth.• Trust and openness to each other’s ideas are essential for successful collaborations.• Know yourself and be honest about what you bring to the table before entering any relationship or partnership.• Not every collaboration will be a good fit, and it’s okay to walk away if it isn’t working.• Great collaborations are built on mutual respect, reliability, and a sense of fun.• Take time to reflect on your current relationships and collaborations to see if they are truly serving you.• Sometimes, the most important collaboration you can have is with yourself and your own creative pursuits. BIO:Spiritual mentor and writer Karen Kenney uses humor and dynamic storytelling to bring a down-to-earth, no-BS perspective to self-development.Bringing together tools that coach the conscious and unconscious mind, Karen helps clients deepen their connections with Self, and discover their unique understandings of spirituality. Her practice combines neuroscience, subconscious reprogramming, Integrative Hypnosis, somatics, spiritual mentoring, and other holistic modalities to help regulate the nervous system, examine internal narratives, remove blocks, and reimagine what’s possible.A passionate yoga teacher, long-time student of A Course in Miracles, and Gateless Writing instructor, Karen is a frequent speaker and retreat leader. Via her programs The...
Karen Kenney is a certified Spiritual Mentor, Writer, Integrative Change Worker, Coach and Hypnotist. She’s known for her dynamic storytelling, her sense of humor, her Boston accent, and her no-BS, down-to-earth approach to Spirituality and transformational work.
KK is a wicked curious human being, a life-long learner, and has been an entrepreneur for over 20 years! She’s also been a yoga teacher for 25 years, is a Certified Gateless Writing Instructor, and an author, speaker, retreat leader, and the host of The Karen Kenney Show podcast!
She coaches both the conscious + unconscious mind using practical Neuroscience, Subconscious Reprogramming, Integrative Hypnosis/Change Work, and Spiritual Mentorship.
These tools help clients to regulate their nervous systems, remove patterns, rewrite old stories, rewire in new beliefs, and reimagine what’s possible in their lives and business!
Karen encourages people to deepen their connection to Self, Source and Spirit in down-to-earth and actionable ways and wants them to have their own lived experience with spirituality and to not just “take her word for it”.
She helps people to shift their minds from fear to Love - using compassion, storytelling and humor. Her work is effective, efficient, memorable, and fun!
KK’s been a student of A Course in Miracles for close to 30 years, has been vegan for over 20 years, and believes that a little kindness can make a big difference.
KK WEBSITE: www.karenkenney.com
Ireland