Last week, we started an important conversation about prioritizing ourselves—what it really looks like to tune in, listen to our needs, and give ourselves permission to rest without guilt.

This week, we’re building on that by talking about something that affects every caregiver, parent, and helper: stress.

We're not just talking about the obvious stressors—but the stress that creeps in quietly and hides in our bodies.

When we say mind-body connection, we’re talking about how our thoughts and emotions don’t just live in our heads. They impact us physically, too. Our mental and emotional well-being is deeply connected to how our bodies feel and function.

Welcome to the first episode in our month-long series focused on Stress Awareness and the art of truly taking care of you. This week, we’re talking about giving yourself permission to put yourself first—because prioritizing your well-being isn’t selfish, it’s essential. I'm Sasha Giles, a licensed clinical social worker, and I’m joined by my colleague, Shirena Smith. Together, we’ll explore what it means to balance your body, mind, and spirit while still showing up in the many roles you hold. Let’s unpack the stigma around self-prioritization, and begin building the foundation for sustainable, healthy living. You carry a lot—and you deserve space to care for yourself in the process.

In this special March Madness episode, we dive into the crucial role of sportsmanship and mental resilience in athletics. Today, we’re joined by one of our very own, Sasha, who may not play on a college team but stays active in a local kickball league. She shares her experience balancing sports with personal and professional life while using athletics to maintain physical health, manage stress, and foster social connections.

We’ll explore how competition, whether in recreational or professional sports, impacts mental well-being. From handling high-pressure moments to maintaining a positive mindset after a tough loss, Sasha offers insights on staying mentally strong while practicing good sportsmanship. Tune in for an engaging conversation on how sports can be a powerful tool for mental and emotional resilience.

March Madness is here, bringing intense pressure for athletes who must balance peak performance with academics, family expectations, future plans, friendships, and coaching demands. Our discussion will focus on the mental state of athletes, the high emotions involved, and the stressors that arise during this time. We’ll break down how athletes handle setbacks, manage stress, and build coping strategies. A key example is the Duke vs. Carolina game, where a seasoned player made a crucial mistake under pressure, highlighting the immense mental strain athletes face in high-stakes moments.

This week’s episode focuses on the challenges student-athletes face in balancing academics and athletics. We’ll explore the impact of rigorous schedules, the mental toll of high expectations, and the importance of rest and balance. Success isn’t just about performance—it’s about well-being.

In this episode, we dive into an important conversation about mental health in athletics, coaching, and performance. We’ll explore powerful stories and strategies that emphasize the vital role of mental wellness in sports, both on and off the field.

Joining us are two phenomenal experts—Nya Moore, a social worker, clinical addiction specialist, and mental health advocate, alongside Aliyah Grinage, a dedicated social worker supporting middle and high school students. Together, we’ll unpack key questions surrounding mental health awareness, coaching strategies, and athlete performance.

In this candid interview, we sit down with someone who openly shares their personal experiences with online dating—the highs, the struggles, and everything in between. As we explore the impact it has had on their mental health over the years, we discuss the emotional rollercoaster of connections that never quite materialized, the self-doubt that can creep in, and the search for something real in a digital space. Our goal is to help you feel more at ease with online dating while setting realistic expectations. Whether you’re navigating online dating for the first time or re-entering the scene, this conversation offers insight, honesty, and a fresh perspective.

Today, we’re diving into the transition from online dating to face-to-face connections—because let’s be real, moving from the comfort of texting and DMs to sitting across from someone in person is a whole different ball game. This shift comes with all kinds of emotions—excitement, nervousness, overthinking—and we’re here to unpack it together. How do we mentally prepare? What are the common challenges? And most importantly, how do we make sure the experience is positive rather than stressful? Let’s talk about it!