Category: Thrive

Navigating the Silent Battles: Mental Health and Breast Cancer

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

In the heart of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we delve into the often-overlooked mental health challenges faced by those battling breast cancer and their caregivers. This journey is not just about survival but also about managing the silent battles of anxiety, depression, and fear that accompany the physical fight. Join us as we uncover these stories and insights in our latest episode.

The Unseen Struggles: Breast cancer is a formidable opponent, affecting one in eight women in the U.S.

While treatment advances have improved survival rates, the mental health toll remains significant. Patients often grapple with “chemo brain,” body image issues, and the constant fear of recurrence. Caregivers, too, bear a heavy burden, juggling medical appointments, emotional support, and their own mental health. Discover personal stories and expert advice in our episode.

Journaling, support groups, and therapy are vital tools for managing mental health. Movement, even gentle exercises, can offer healing. For caregivers, self-care is crucial. As one caregiver shared, “You can’t pour from an empty cup.” Taking time for oneself is not selfish but necessary to provide quality care. Learn more about these coping strategies in our discussion.

Faith can be a powerful anchor, offering hope and strength. Community support, whether through churches or peer groups, provides a network of care and understanding. As one participant noted, “Faith doesn’t erase the pain, but it gives us an anchor.” Hear more about the role of faith in our episode.

Breast cancer is a journey of both physical and emotional healing. By acknowledging and addressing the mental health challenges, we can better support those affected. Remember, healing is not just physical; it’s emotional and spiritual. Let’s continue to raise awareness and support each other in this journey.

Don’t miss our latest episode of Thrive by the Rising Muse, where we dive deep into these topics with heartfelt stories and expert insights. Subscribe now and join the conversation. Together, we can navigate these challenges and thrive.

“When God Seems Silent: Navigating Spiritual Desolation”

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

In the quiet moments of our spiritual journey, we often encounter a profound silence that can feel both unsettling and enlightening. This silence, sometimes perceived as abandonment by God, invites us to explore the depths of our faith and the resilience of our spirit. On the most recent episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, we discuss why this happens and how to overcome it.

Spiritual silence is a phase where the usual signs of divine presence seem absent. It’s a time when prayers feel unanswered, and the comforting sense of God’s presence is elusive. This silence can be a test of faith, urging us to seek deeper understanding and connection.

Feeling abandoned by God is a common experience during spiritual silence. It’s a period marked by doubt and questioning, where the absence of divine reassurance challenges our beliefs. Yet, this feeling can also be a catalyst for growth, pushing us to redefine our relationship with the divine.

Instead of resisting the silence, embracing it can lead to profound insights. This period of quiet can be an opportunity to listen more intently to our inner voice and to find strength in solitude. It encourages us to trust in the unseen and to find peace in the unknown.

Experiencing spiritual silence and feeling abandoned by God are integral parts of the spiritual journey. They teach us resilience, patience, and the importance of faith in the unseen. By embracing these moments, we open ourselves to deeper spiritual growth and understanding.

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Empowerment Through Swimming: A Journey of Transformation

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

Imagine standing at the edge of a pool, heart racing, and mind flashing back to every challenging water experience. For many adults, swimming isn’t just about learning strokes; it’s about facing a fear that’s been lurking for decades. This journey of overcoming fear and building confidence is a powerful testament to personal growth and empowerment.

“Swimming is 80% mental and 20% physical,” says Cori, a seasoned swim instructor. Her approach transforms more than just your relationship with water; it changes your relationship with yourself. By focusing on mindfulness and somatic awareness, Cori helps her students stay present and avoid panic, teaching them to trust their bodies and minds.

On this week’s episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, Cori shares stories of students who, after conquering their fear of water, found the courage to make significant life changes. “I took my swim lesson and then I quit my job,” one student said. This empowerment extends beyond the pool, encouraging individuals to face life’s challenges with newfound confidence.

The journey begins with small steps, like learning to float or putting your face in the water. Cori emphasizes the importance of creating a safe environment where students can explore their fears and build confidence at their own pace. This approach not only teaches swimming but also instills a sense of self-assurance that ripples into other areas of life.

Empowerment through swimming lessons is about more than just mastering a skill; it’s about transforming fear into freedom and building a confident, resilient self. Whether you’re learning to swim or facing other life challenges, the lessons of mindfulness, presence, and self-trust can guide you towards a more empowered life.

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Understanding ADHD in Children: Myths, Realities, and Support

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

Imagine a world where your child is constantly in motion, struggling to focus, and behaving impulsively. This is the reality for many parents of children with ADHD. Despite common misconceptions, with the right support, these children can thrive.

Dr. Tamar Shtrambrand, a clinical psychologist and mother of three children with ADHD, shares that ADHD often manifests as difficulty in following multi-step directions, trouble making friends, and challenges in regulating emotions. These children are often misunderstood as being defiant or overly sensitive.

A prevalent myth is that children with ADHD are not intelligent or capable. Dr. Shtrambrand emphasizes that these children are often creative and intelligent but require different approaches to learning and interaction.

Parents can support their children by understanding their unique needs. Dr. Shtrambrand suggests focusing on a balanced diet, ensuring adequate sleep, and incorporating physical activity. She also highlights the importance of structure and routine in helping children manage their symptoms.

Dr. Tamar Shtrambrand is not only a brilliant clinical psychologist but also a mom of three teens—each with ADHD, and one on the high-functioning autism spectrum. She has over 20 years of experience as an occupational therapist working with children with special needs, and later in life, she became a clinical psychologist, earning her PhD online while raising her family and leaning into her faith.


She homeschooled her children, is deeply rooted in her Jewish spiritual journey, and brings a wealth of both personal and professional insight into today’s topic: Childhood ADHD—what it looks like, what families can do, and how to navigate this journey with compassion, patience, and empowerment.

Understanding ADHD is crucial for providing the right support. By debunking myths and focusing on tailored strategies, parents can help their children thrive. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. Subscribe now for more insights and support.

Discovering Self Through the Journey: The Transformative Power of Travel

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In a world where the hustle and bustle often drown out the whispers of our inner selves, travel emerges as a beacon of self-discovery and healing. In this episode of “Thrive by the Rising Muse,” Naty and Veda sit down with Theresa Charles, founder of Nomadic Noni, to explore how travel can be a profound act of self-care and empowerment.

“Travel in and of itself can be self-care,” Theresa shares, emphasizing the importance of focusing on oneself during these journeys. Whether it’s solo travel or group trips, the act of stepping outside one’s comfort zone can lead to significant personal growth and healing.

Theresa has spent over two decades connecting people with their roots through travel. Her work with Nomadic Noni is not just about visiting new places but about creating immersive experiences that foster cultural understanding and personal transformation. From Afrocentric bridal showers in Chicago to youth heritage trips in Ghana, Theresa’s initiatives highlight the importance of cultural connections.

One of the most poignant moments Theresa recalls is her visit to the slave dungeons at Cape Coast Castle in Ghana. “When you are in that space, something changes within you,” she reflects. These experiences are designed to be more than just vacations; they are journeys that change perspectives and lives.

As they discuss, travel is not just about seeing new sights but about engaging deeply with the world and oneself. For those feeling disconnected or burnt out, perhaps the journey toward healing begins with a passport and an open heart.

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Breaking Homeschool Myths with Tam – The Truth They Don’t Tell You (Part 2)

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When you think about homeschooling, what comes to mind? Socially awkward kids? Limited opportunities? Confusing college admissions?

In this lively, eye-opening Part 2 of our homeschooling conversation on Thrive by The Rising Muse, we’re back with Tam — a homeschooling veteran with over a decade of experience — to pull back the curtain on what it’s really like to educate your kids at home.

Picking up where we left off in Part 1, Tam dives even deeper into busting myths, sharing laugh-out-loud stories, and revealing surprising truths that will change how you see homeschooling forever.

We talk about:

  • Why “socialization” isn’t the issue you think it is.
  • How homeschoolers get into college (yes, there’s a system, and it works).
  • The flexibility that makes real-world preparation possible.
  • Creative, affordable curriculum options most parents don’t know about.
  • The courage it takes to do things differently — and why it’s worth it.

Whether you’re a seasoned homeschool parent, just curious, or someone who’s been told “your child needs to be bullied to build character” (spoiler: we have thoughts on that), this episode will make you laugh, think, and maybe even reimagine what school can look like.

🎧 Listen to Part 2 now — and if you missed it, go back to catch Part 1 for the full conversation. You’ll walk away informed, inspired, and maybe even ready to start your own homeschooling journey.

How Heartbreak Can Help You Shine Bright!

On By Naty MatosIn Thrive2 Comments

In a world where pain often feels insurmountable, the story of Shawna Foster offers a beacon of hope. Her journey from heartbreak to healing is a testament to the power of resilience and faith. As she shares, “What if the very fire that meant to destroy you became the light that guides you home?”

Shawna’s story is one of raw pain transformed into radical healing. She opens up about the heartbreaking experience of losing two children to parental alienation, a grief that reshapes the soul. Yet, through vulnerability, she finds strength. “Our stories are different,” she says, “and that’s fine. God knows the truth, and I’m just going to rest in that.”

Despite the challenges, Shawna emphasizes the importance of finding joy. A trip with her family became a turning point, allowing her to embrace the present and find happiness. “Just be happy with where you’re at and who’s here,” her son reminds her, highlighting the importance of gratitude.

Throughout her journey, Shawna’s faith remains a cornerstone. She speaks of the importance of prayer and trusting in a higher power. “The pain and suffering isn’t what He wants for us,” she shares. “He wants us to find grace and joy and peace and rest in Him.”

Shawna Foster is an inspiring author, speaker, and advocate for healing and transformation. Her powerful journey from trauma to hope is captured in her book, Faith in the Flames, where she shares her experiences of overcoming personal challenges, including the loss of her children to parental alienation. Shawna’s story is a testament to resilience, faith, and the transformative power of vulnerability. Through her work, she encourages others to embrace their own healing journeys and find joy amid adversity. She also writes for Christianity.com. She also hosts a podcast titled Faith in the Flames Podcast.

Shawna’s story is a powerful reminder that healing is possible, even in the darkest times. By embracing vulnerability, finding joy, and leaning on faith, we can transform trauma into a journey of healing and hope. As Shawna beautifully puts it, “Healing isn’t about erasing the pain; it’s about rising through it.”

Subscribe now to follow more inspiring stories and insights on healing and transformation, and click below to listen to the full episode.

Thinking About Homeschooling? Here’s the Episode You Didn’t Know You Needed

On By Naty MatosIn ThriveLeave a comment

You’ve seen the headlines. Maybe you’ve even scrolled past a few homeschool moms on TikTok with their color-coded charts and cozy learning nooks. But still, one big question lingers in your mind:

“Could I actually homeschool my child?”

This week on Thrive by The Rising Muse, we sat down with someone who can answer that in a way that’s real, practical, and surprisingly empowering. Tam—a decade-deep homeschooling veteran, former college admissions advisor, and viral TikTok mentor—joins us to drop gems, shatter myths, and keep it 100 about what homeschooling really looks like in 2025.

Let’s just say this episode isn’t about perfection—it’s about permission. Permission to reimagine your child’s education. Permission to ask questions, challenge stereotypes, and explore an option that just might work better than you think.

Whether you’re burnt out by the school system, anxious about safety, or just wondering how homeschoolers even do math without losing their minds, this episode is a must-hear.

We’re talking:

  • What it really takes to homeschool
  • How to know if it’s right for your family
  • The surprising truth about socialization, college, and curriculum

But here’s the deal: we’re not giving it all away here.

You’ve got to press play.

🎧 Listen now on YouTube, your favorite podcast platform, or catch us on the radio!
📻 WDJY 99.1 FM (ATL) – Thursdays at 9 AM
📻 92.9 FM / 89.3 HD3 – Denver
📺 Spiritual Channel 36 – Fairfax Public Access / Cox

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Escaping the Grip: Understanding Spiritual Stockholm Syndrome

On By Naty MatosIn Thrive1 Comment

In part 2 of our conversation with Tom Snow, on this week’s episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, we talk about those things that keep us in bondage that we even foster.

Imagine being held captive by beliefs that you defend with fervor, even as they limit your spiritual growth. This is the essence of spiritual Stockholm syndrome, a concept explored in our latest episode with Tom Snow. Join us as we delve into the complexities of religious captivity and the path to liberation.

Tom Snow introduces the idea of spiritual Stockholm syndrome, where individuals develop a psychological alliance with the belief systems that confine them. He explains how these systems, often rooted in fear and control, can lead believers to defend their own spiritual captivity, mistaking it for faithfulness.

Religious captivity can manifest in various forms, from rigid doctrines to manipulative leadership. Tom discusses the emotional and spiritual toll this takes on individuals, highlighting stories of those who have struggled to overcome this challenge. The episode sheds light on the subtle ways in which captivity is maintained and the courage required to challenge it.

Breaking free from spiritual captivity requires introspection and a willingness to question long-held beliefs. Tom emphasizes the importance of seeking truth and authenticity in one’s spiritual journey, offering practical advice for those seeking to escape the grip of false beliefs and find a more fulfilling path.

“Escaping the Grip” is a call to action for anyone feeling trapped by their beliefs. This episode encourages listeners to reflect on their spiritual journey and consider the possibility of a faith unburdened by captivity. Join us in this enlightening conversation and take the first step towards spiritual freedom.

“Set the Captives Free” is not just a book title but a call to action for those seeking spiritual liberation. This episode invites listeners to reflect on their own beliefs and consider the possibility of a faith unburdened by false constructs. Join us in this transformative conversation and take the first step towards spiritual freedom.

Subscribe now to stay updated on future episodes and continue your journey towards a more authentic faith.

Why You’re UNKNOWINGLY Defending the Rules that Keep You Trapped?

Unmasking the Chains: False Belief Systems in Religion

On By Naty MatosIn Thrive1 Comment

In a world where faith is often seen as a sanctuary, the reality of spiritual captivity within religious contexts can be a startling revelation. Tom Snow, author of “Set the Captives Free,” joins us to explore the origins and impacts of false belief systems that have infiltrated religious practices. This episode sheds light on the hidden chains that bind believers and offers a path to true spiritual freedom.

Tom Snow delves into the historical roots of false belief systems, tracing their emergence from well-intentioned interpretations to rigid constructs that often stray from original spiritual teachings. He highlights how these systems have been shaped by human desires for power and control, leading to a distortion of true faith.

False belief systems can create a spiritual Stockholm syndrome, where individuals unknowingly defend their own bondage. Tom discusses how these systems manipulate believers into accepting constraints that limit their spiritual growth and understanding. The conversation reveals the subtle ways in which these beliefs are perpetuated and the challenges faced by those seeking to break free.

The episode offers hope and guidance for those feeling trapped by false beliefs. Tom emphasizes the importance of personal exploration and a return to the core tenets of faith, encouraging listeners to question and seek truth beyond the confines of established doctrines. By embracing a more authentic spiritual journey, believers can find liberation and a deeper connection with their faith.

“Set the Captives Free” is not just a book title but a call to action for those seeking spiritual liberation. This episode invites listeners to reflect on their own beliefs and consider the possibility of a faith unburdened by false constructs. Join us in this transformative conversation and take the first step towards spiritual freedom.

Subscribe now to stay updated on future episodes and continue your journey towards a more authentic faith. Is the Church Keeping You Trapped Without You Knowing?