Susie explains how clutter isn't just about the stuff in your room—it’s about the thoughts in your head and the emotions you carry. She dives into the connection between physical, mental, and emotional clutter and provides practical strategies to declutter in a way that lasts. Whether it's finding motivation to clean your space, tackling school stress, or setting priorities, Susie's advice will leave you feeling empowered and ready to take action.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
 🧠 How physical, mental, and emotional clutter are interconnected
 🏡 Practical tips for decluttering your space and keeping it that way
 💡 The "Glass vs. Plastic Balls" analogy to help prioritize what truly matters
 🛑 How to stop procrastinating and start tackling your to-do list
 🍕 The "Pizza Analogy" – embracing the idea of “good enough” to beat perfectionism
 ⏳ Why setting small, achievable goals can help you stay on track

If you’ve ever felt stuck in a cycle of clutter—whether in your space, your mind, or your schedule—this episode is for you. Tune in to learn how to declutter, de-stress, and take control of your life!

Connect with Susie Boutal:
📲 Instagram: @aspaceforliving
🌐 Website: aspaceforliving.co.uk
Facebook
Facebook Group

⭐ Book a complimentary 20 minute call with Susie to kickstart your decluttering journey

Contact Balancing Act:
📧 Email Moorea: moorea@balancingact.life
🌐 Website: balancingact.life
📸 Instagram: @balancingact.podcast

DISCLAIMER: Balancing Act: Life and Struggles of a Teenage Girl cannot and does not contain medical/health advice. The medical/health information is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical/health advice. THE USE OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON OUR SITE OR OUR PODCAST IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK.

Me too.

I am a chronic over thinker and perfectionist, and honestly, it’s exhausting. And sure, sometimes it helps me to appear “productive” on the surface, but at what cost? I’m burnt out all the time and I’m sick of it. And if you've ever felt this way too, know that you're not alone.

In this solo episode of Balancing Act, I explore my thoughts on overthinking, perfectionism, and battling that really annoying inner critic. 

I ponder:

• How and why other people are too caught up in their own minds to notice (or care) about your imperfections 
• How to practice confidence until you feel confident
• The root of perfectionism and how regain perspective to combat perfectionist tendencies  
• Taking control in the moment instead of catastrophizing 
• Why motivating yourself through “I’m not good enough” doesn’t work
• Slowing down to reflect on your priorities and to allocate your energy wisely

Despite my perfectionist tendencies, I’m anything but “perfect”. I’m actively thinking about and working towards addressing my perfectionism to lead a more balanced life - which is the point of this podcast. (i.e. I talk a lot perfectionism and present some solutions but I don't have this figured out.) So let’s explore and rethink perfectionism together.

My key takeaways:

• People are often too caught up in their own lives to notice the small details of things that you’re insecure about. You are your own worst inner critic. It’s cliche but it’s true.
  • To combat this, approach every situation reassuring yourself that no one else notices your insecurities. Act as if you’re not insecure about these things, and people will treat you as if you are confident, helping you to actually become more confident.
• Perfectionism causes us to give some things unwarranted (and unnecessary) amounts of mental and emotional energy 
  • Regain perspective by reflecting on your motivation for making this thing perfect. Is it fear or passion? Do you truly need it to be perfect? In twenty years from now, will you remember more about the perfect outcome or the toll it took to get there?
• Constantly striving to be “productive” is unhealthy and unsustainable
  • Reflect on your motivations. If your productivity stems from feeling like “I’m not good enough”, no matter how productive you are, you’ll never feel fulfilled because you will constantly feel the need to prove your worth. Instead, slow down and consider your values and priorities. Write a list of what’s truly important to you - not just what external pressures are urging you to value. Allocate your energy according to your authentic priorities. 

Contact Balancing Act:
📧 Email Moorea: moorea@balancingact.life
🌐 Website: balancingact.life
📸 Instagram: @balancingact.podcast

DISCLAIMER: Balancing Act: Life and Struggles of a Teenage Girl cannot and does not contain medical/health advice. The medical/health information is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical/health advice. THE USE OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON OUR SITE OR OUR PODCAST IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK.

So how do we balance our online lives with the real world? In this episode of Balancing Act: Life and Struggles of a Teenage Girl, Moorea sits down with Kirsten McCormick, founder of Teen Connect Adventure Camps, to talk about navigating the tricky balance between technology and meaningful real-life connections.

Kirsten, a mom of five and a thought leader on screen-life balance, shares valuable insights on how teens can take control of their phone usage without the constant pressure from parents. This episode is packed with practical advice, personal experiences, and actionable strategies to help you unplug and reconnect with what truly matters.

In this episode, you'll learn:
📱 How to redefine your relationship with social media on your own terms.
🙌 How to have better conversations with your parents about phone usage.
👥 The importance of real-life connection and how it impacts your mental health.
🎯 Tips for managing screen time while still staying connected and not feeling restricted.
🌿 The power of unplugging and finding joy in real-world experiences.
🫶 How to push past awkwardness to connect with people in real life.

Connect with Kirsten McCormick:
📸  Instagram: @teenconnectadventures
🌐 Website: teenconnectadventures.com

Contact Balancing Act:
📧 Email Moorea: moorea@balancingact.life
🌐 Website: balancingact.life
📸 Instagram: @balancingact.podcast

DISCLAIMER: Balancing Act: Life and Struggles of a Teenage Girl cannot and does not contain medical/health advice. The medical/health information is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical/health advice. THE USE OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON OUR SITE OR OUR PODCAST IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK.

In this powerful episode of Balancing Act, Moorea sits down with Gem Gale—a 17-year-old author of Storms Don’t Last Forever—to talk about how she’s turned some of life’s hardest challenges into strength and purpose.

From navigating her parents' cancer diagnoses to overcoming her own struggles with mental health and dyslexia, Gem shares how she found the courage to share her story and inspire others to keep going. This raw and honest conversation will motivate you to reflect on your own struggles, reframe how you think about setbacks, and remember that you choose how to move forward.

In this episode, Moorea and Gem dive into:
 📖 How Gem turned her personal journals into a published book to help others feel less alone.
 💪 The power of taking control of your story—no matter how messy it feels.
 🌀 How to break out of cycles of isolation and reconnect with the world.
 🏋️‍♀️ Why daily "me-time" and movement have been essential to Gem’s healing.
 📝 How writing can be a tool for reflection and growth—even if it’s never shared.
 🌟 The importance of realizing that while storms are inevitable, they don’t last forever.

Whether you’re feeling stuck in your own storm or just need a reminder that it’s okay not to have everything figured out, this episode will leave you feeling seen, inspired, and empowered to choose how you face life’s challenges.

Resources Mentioned:

Gem's Website
Gem's Book
Gem's Instagram

Contact Balancing Act:

Email Moorea: moorea@balancingact.life

Balancing Act Website
Instagram

DISCLAIMER: Balancing Act: Life and Struggles of a Teenage Girl cannot and does not contain medical/health advice. The medical/health information is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical/health advice. THE USE OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON OUR SITE OR OUR PODCAST IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK.

As we head back into school after break, many of us may be less than excited to get back into the cycle of school, non-ideal sleep, and the stress that comes from all of it. Oh the stress...

To help ground you (and also herself) Moorea has compiled expert insights on school and college, and the internal and external pressure to achieve perfection. Most importantly, Moorea uses this episode as a means to remind all of us that we are so much more than our identities at school, and that we need to choose for ourselves how we're going to spend our energy. What actually matters to you? And does school always have to define your identity?

This pressure may not be your experience at school, but it's something that Moorea's witnessed and definitely experienced first hand.
 
In this episode Moorea draws on expert insights to share:
🎓 How going to one of 24 top colleges doesn't define your future
🚦 How to focus your energy where it will make the biggest impact.
🍕 How the "pizza analogy" reminds us that sometimes "good enough" is exactly what we need
🛌 How setting boundaries around bedtime can improve focus, mental health, and overall well-being.
🎯 How you can let go of stress over things beyond your power, and put energy into areas you can influence.
🗺️ How to visualize the different components of your identity to remind yourself of your multifaceted self.

Episodes Mentioned:
CREATE Better Sleep Habits: Teen Sleep Science and Strategies with Dr. Afolabi Brown
Conquering Anxiety: Science-Backed Tools for Teens with Dr. Rachel Hutt
Navigating Stress: Dr. Lisa Damour's Tips for Teen Life

Contact Balancing Act:

Email Moorea: moorea@balancingact.life

Balancing Act Website
Instagram

DISCLAIMER: Balancing Act: Life and Struggles of a Teenage Girl cannot and does not contain medical/health advice. The medical/health information is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical/health advice. THE USE OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON OUR SITE OR OUR PODCAST IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK.

💭 To reflect on this past year, I draw from impactful guest insights on

• Redefining productivity during hard times.
• The power of resilience and embracing change.
• Letting go of regret and learning from every experience.

Whether you’ve had a transformative year or feel like you’re still finding your footing, this episode is a reminder that progress takes many forms. Let’s reflect, reset, and head into 2025 with self-compassion and an open heart. 💕

Episodes Mentioned:
Working Through Depression: Science and Strategies for When You're Feeling Stuck
One Size Doesn't Fit All: Navigating the (College) Stress to Have it All Figured Out
Rolling with the Punches: Redefining Struggle with Tiff Cook

Contact Balancing Act:

Email Moorea: moorea@balancingact.life

Balancing Act Website
Instagram

DISCLAIMER: Balancing Act: Life and Struggles of a Teenage Girl cannot and does not contain medical/health advice. The medical/health information is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical/health advice. THE USE OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON OUR SITE OR OUR PODCAST IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK.

The truth of life? Almost no one has it "all figured out" and it's better to approach life with an open mind instead of trying to lock yourself into the "perfect life plan".

In this episode of Balancing Act: Life and Struggles of a Teenage Girl, I sit down with Cassie Scheiner, a mental health counselor specializing in reproductive and perinatal experiences. But Cassie’s journey wasn’t always about psychology—she started her career in digital media, studying communications in college and then spending seven years in the field before taking the leap to pursue her true passion.

This episode dives into the pressure many teens and young adults feel to have their lives figured out. We have a thoughtful, vulnerable conversation which reassures us that it’s okay to take time to explore, grow, and change. Whether you’re a high school student stressed about college applications or a parent wanting to better support your teen, this conversation is packed with wisdom, practical advice, and the reminder that no one has everything figured out.

In this episode, we discuss:
🧠 Career Changes: Cassie’s inspiring journey from media to mental health and what she learned along the way.
📚 The Pressure to Have It All Together: Why it’s okay to not have your entire future mapped out in high school.
💬 How to Support Teens: Practical ways parents, friends, and mentors can hold space and validate feelings.
🌟 The Role of Mindfulness: How slowing down and listening to yourself can help you make authentic decisions.
🔄 Life is Ever-Changing: Why flexibility and adaptability are life-long skills worth developing.

If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by uncertainty or the pressure to have a perfect path, this episode is here to remind you that you’re not alone.

Contact Balancing Act:

Email Moorea: moorea@balancingact.life

Balancing Act Website
Instagram

DISCLAIMER: Balancing Act: Life and Struggles of a Teenage Girl cannot and does not contain medical/health advice. The medical/health information is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical/health advice. THE USE OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON OUR SITE OR OUR PODCAST IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK.

In this episode of Balancing Act: Life and Struggles of a Teenage Girl, I speak with Brittany Smith, a productivity and ADHD coach at Devise and Conquer Productivity Coaching, to explore how we can take small, actionable steps to overcome procrastination and take our power back from technology. Brittany’s background in cognitive neuroscience and her practical tips make this a must-listen for anyone feeling stuck or overwhelmed by their tasks—or their phone.

In this episode, we discuss:
🧠 The Truth About Procrastination: Why it’s more about feelings than time management and how guilt, shame, and fear can hold you back.
🤝 The Power of Body Doubling: How working with others can anchor you and make intimidating tasks less scary.
🛠️ Breaking It Down: Tackling overwhelming tasks one micro-step at a time.
📲 Reclaiming Your Phone: Tips to turn off unnecessary notifications, reorganize apps, and find freedom from your phone.
🌟 Finding Joy Amidst the Chaos: Why incorporating hobbies or passion projects can boost productivity and mental health.
✨ ADHD-Specific Tips: Strategies to manage time, simplify tasks, and avoid perfectionist traps.

Whether you’re a student drowning in assignments, a perfectionist battling procrastination, or just looking for a healthier relationship with your phone, this episode is packed with fun conversation and practical advice to aid you in your journey.

Resources Mentioned:
Devise and Conquer Productivity Coaching
Unstuck Your Tasks Course
*Course starts on January 27th, 2025. Use code “PODCASTPILOT” for 20% off!

Contact Balancing Act:

Email Moorea: moorea@balancingact.life

Balancing Act Website
Instagram

DISCLAIMER: Balancing Act: Life and Struggles of a Teenage Girl cannot and does not contain medical/health advice. The medical/health information is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical/health advice. THE USE OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON OUR SITE OR OUR PODCAST IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK.

When I was in the depths of my eating disorder, I felt so alone—like nobody could understand what I was going through. One of the most dangerous aspects of eating disorders is how they thrive on isolation. But you are not alone.

In this episode of Balancing Act: Life and Struggles of a Teenage Girl, I speak with Nic Coppage, a helpline specialist at the National Alliance for Eating Disorders and an advocate for mental health and people with marginalized identities, including the LGBTQ+ community. Together, we have an open, raw, and deeply personal conversation about our journeys with eating disorders.

We explore:

🌈 Nic’s Advocacy Journey: How personal experiences inspired her work with the LGBTQ+ community and individuals with eating disorders.
🧠 The Minority Stress Model: Exploring the connection between marginalized identities and mental health challenges.
💬 Practical Tips for Recovery: Differentiating eating disorder thoughts from your true self and striving for neutrality.
🤝 Seeking Help: Why reaching out is brave and how therapists, dietitians, and support groups can aid you in your journey.
📞 Supportive Resources: The National Alliance for Eating Disorders and how they can help.

Whether you're struggling with an eating disorder, supporting a loved one, or seeking to better understand this often-misunderstood topic, this episode will provide you with insights, personal stories, and actionable tips to better navigate eating disorders.

You are not alone, and recovery is possible.

Resources:
The National Alliance for Eating Disorders
Eating Disorder Hotline: +1 (866) 662-1235
Nic's Instagram

Contact Balancing Act:

Email Moorea: moorea@balancingact.life

Balancing Act Website
Instagram

DISCLAIMER: Balancing Act: Life and Struggles of a Teenage Girl cannot and does not contain medical/health advice. The medical/health information is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical/health advice. THE USE OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON OUR SITE OR OUR PODCAST IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK.

We’ve all heard it, but let’s be real—easier said than done, right? What if loving yourself isn’t the goal at all? What if self-esteem is about something deeper, something more attainable?

In this episode of Balancing Act: Life and Struggles of a Teenage Girl, I sit down with Hannah Lieb, a licensed clinical social worker who works with teens and young adults, to redefine self-esteem. Spoiler alert: It’s not about loving yourself 24/7 or always feeling confident.

We dive into:
 🌱 The difference between self-esteem, self-love, and self-confidence—and why they’re not all the same
 🧠 How childhood shapes your core beliefs about worth and how social pressures as a teen can impact them
 💬 Practical tips for challenging negative self-talk and rewiring your brain
 💡 Why self-esteem is about trust and resilience, not perfection
 💔 How to stop tying your worth to external validation like grades, sports, or social media likes
 💞 Why improving self-esteem makes you a better friend, family member, and teammate

This episode is packed with insights, relatable stories, and actionable advice to help you start trusting yourself—even when life feels messy. Tune in and join me on this journey to understanding and building true self-esteem. 💕

Resources Mentioned:
Hannah's Website
Hannah's Insta
Hannah's TikTok

Contact Balancing Act:

Email Moorea: moorea@balancingact.life

Balancing Act Website
Instagram

DISCLAIMER: Balancing Act: Life and Struggles of a Teenage Girl cannot and does not contain medical/health advice. The medical/health information is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical/health advice. THE USE OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON OUR SITE OR OUR PODCAST IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK.

In this empowering episode of Balancing Act, I’m joined by boxer, coach, and podcast host Tiff Cook. As the host of Roll With the Punches, Tiff explores resilience, personal growth, and overcoming life’s challenges—and today, she’s sharing her insights with us.

Tiff opens up about her journey as a boxer and how stepping into the ring taught her to face fear, reframe struggles, and uncover unexpected strengths. Together, we explore how the lessons she learned about grit, resilience, and success extend beyond the ring into everyday life.

Whether you’re tackling challenges in sports, school, or just trying to keep it together, this episode is your reminder that you’re stronger than your circumstances. 💪

Here’s what we dive into:
🥊 The art of resilience: How getting “hit” helps us grow 
🧠 Why mental strength matters as much as physical strength 
❤️ How to trust your ability to overcome tough times 
🏆 Redefining what it means to “win” 
🔍 Why self-reflection and mindset shifts are key to bouncing back 
✨ How struggle can open doors to opportunities you never imagined 

Packed with takeaways, this conversation will inspire you to embrace tough moments, redefine success, and find strength in the struggle. Tune in for a powerful reminder that life’s punches don’t have to knock you down—they can push you forward.

Resources Mentioned:
Linktree: linktr.ee/rollwiththepunches/

Website: www.tiffcook.com

Contact Balancing Act:

Email Moorea: moorea@balancingact.life

Balancing Act Website
Instagram

DISCLAIMER: Balancing Act: Life and Struggles of a Teenage Girl cannot and does not contain medical/health advice. The medical/health information is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical/health advice. THE USE OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON OUR SITE OR OUR PODCAST IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK.

Like it’s throwing stress, anxiety, and self-doubt at you for fun? Same. But what if you could learn to outsmart it?

In this episode of Balancing Act, I take you through the highlights of everything I’ve learned so far on this podcast. I explore the science behind why we feel what we feel and share practical tips for navigating the ups and downs of teenage life. From stress and anxiety to self-esteem and sleep, this episode is packed with real advice and mindset shifts to help you thrive - in just one short episode instead of a dozen.

Follow Balancing Act's Instagram for bite-sized tips!

Here’s what you’ll learn: 
🧠 Why social media makes you feel crappy—and how to handle it 
💪 The science of stress and why it’s not all bad 
💤 How to actually get better sleep (yes, it’s possible!) 
❄️ The “dive reflex” trick that calms anxiety fast 
🖤 How to challenge negative thoughts (and stop the spiral) 
✨ Why affirmations only work if they’re authentic to YOU
🤔 How to new try strategies with an open mind
🍕 The frozen pizza analogy: Why “good enough” is sometimes perfect 

Plus: 
❤️ The importance of reaching out for help—and how to shift your mindset about asking for support 
💌 The one thing almost everyone wishes they could tell their teenage self 

This episode is your crash course in self-care, self-love, and learning to embrace imperfection. Grab a notebook, because you’ll definitely want to try some of these tips today.

Episodes Mentioned:
Filtered Realities: Navigating Social Media and Social Comparison with Dr. Michelle Solomon
Conquering Anxiety: Science-Backed Tools for Teens with Dr. Rachel Hutt
CREATE Better Sleep Habits: Teen Sleep Science and Strategies with Dr. Afolabi Brown
Navigating Stress: Dr. Lisa Damour's Tips for Teen Life
Don't Tell Me To Relax: Getting Real About Teen Mental Heath With Sophie Riegel
Working Through Depression: Science and Strategies for When You're Feeling Stuck
Unlocking CBT & DBT: Tools for Managing Stress, Anxiety, and Everything in Between

Stay tuned for:
Navigating Self Esteem with Hannah Leib
Decluttering with Susie Boutal

Contact Balancing Act:

Email Moorea: moorea@balancingact.life

Balancing Act Website
Instagram

DISCLAIMER: Balancing Act: Life and Struggles of a Teenage Girl cannot and does not contain medical/health advice. The medical/health information is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical/health advice. THE USE OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON OUR SITE OR OUR PODCAST IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK.

We’re so glad you ask!

In short, holistic wellness is an approach to health that addresses all aspects of a person’s wellbeing: physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual. 

In this episode of Balancing Act, I am joined by the Scarpello sisters, Taylor and Abby, to discuss everything holistic wellness and to explore practical holistic health skills for teens.

Taylor and Abby are the Co-founders of EMPWRD SOL, where they help individuals to discover and navigate mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical imbalances to encourage holistic healing.  They’re also the co-hosts of a new podcast, Soul Over It, where they step outside of cookie-cutter approaches to health, and dive further into the “hidden truths” of wellness and empowerment.

This is an amazing episode for flushing out your holistic health toolbox. So grab a pen, some paper, or open your notes app and prepare to jot down whatever skills SCREAM YOUR NAME - and there’s a lot to choose from.

In this episode, we cover:

🤔 The basics of “holistic healing”

☀️ Easily accessible, scientifically based “bio hacks”

❤️ Realistically incorporating positive affirmations into your life 

🧘 Breath work skills 

🫐 Holistic nutrition 

🔊 Sound healing 

Resources Mentioned:

EMPWRD SOL Website
Soul Over It Podcast
EMPWRD SOL Resources

Follow EMPWRD SOL:

EMPWRD SOL Insta
EMPWRD SOL TikTok

EMPWRD SOL Email

Balancing Act:

Email Moorea: moorea@balancingact.life

Balancing Act Website
Instagram

DISCLAIMER: Balancing Act: Life and Struggles of a Teenage Girl cannot and does not contain medical/health advice. The medical/health information is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical/health advice. THE USE OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON OUR SITE OR OUR PODCAST IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK.

When in the history of the universe have those words actually helped anyone to calm down???

In this episode of Balancing Act, I speak with (Gen-Z!) best-selling author, speaker, coach, and mental health advocate - Sophie Riegel. We dive into the real and messy sides of mental health, sharing our personal experiences as teens and exchanging insights about navigating anxiety, OCD, depression, and mental health in general. This episode is packed with advice for anyone looking to find support for themselves or trying to support a loved one. (Step 1: Don't tell them to "just calm down". We would if we could!!)

Here's what we explore:
🤔 How mental health struggles don't just have "one look"
🥇 Mental health support for high-achievers
❤️ Why you deserve to reach out for support
❤️‍🩹 The importance of a support system & how to build it
👪 How to navigate parent/teen relationships around mental health
🗣️ Reframing language around mental health
👩‍⚕️ Our personal experiences with medication

Resources Mentioned:
Sophie's Email
Sophie's Website
Sophie's Books
** "Don't Tell me to Relax" is a GAME CHANGER 🙌

Contact Balancing Act:

Email Moorea: moorea@balancingact.life

Balancing Act Website
Instagram

DISCLAIMER: Balancing Act: Life and Struggles of a Teenage Girl cannot and does not contain medical/health advice. The medical/health information is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical/health advice. THE USE OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON OUR SITE OR OUR PODCAST IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK.

But why is it so important? What does it do for us? How much sleep do we need? And how can we realistically get more sleep because we're busy teens living busy lives....??

In this episode of Balancing Act, I have the honor speaking with Dr. Funke Afolabi-Brown about everything teen sleep related. Dr. Brown is a triple board certified sleep physician and best-selling author who specializes in helping children and families to achieve better sleep. In this episode, she shares tons of practical, insightful advice that could benefit any teen or parent of a teen!

In this episode, we explore:
🔬 The science behind teen's sleep
🤯 Sleep's effect on mental health
😴 Setting boundaries to make quality sleep a non-negotiable
💤 Practical tips for improving sleep
🥱 Realistic steps for getting back on track after poor sleep

Resources Mentioned:

Beyond Tired Book
Dr. Brown's Website 

Dr. Brown's Instagram

Dr. Brown's Linkedin

Facebook: restfulsleepmd

Contact Balancing Act:

Email Moorea: moorea@balancingact.life

Balancing Act Website
Instagram

DISCLAIMER: Balancing Act: Life and Struggles of a Teenage Girl cannot and does not contain medical/health advice. The medical/health information is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical/health advice. THE USE OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON OUR SITE OR OUR PODCAST IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK.

In this episode, I sit down in my pajamas to reflect on this past week. It's been a rollercoaster. From describing the extreme anxiety I felt at the beginning of the week when I presented about this podcast to my school, to questioning the impact of our environment on our confidence, this episode is just a bunch of my unscripted, unedited thoughts and questions. 

So plug in your headphones (or connect them with bluetooth if you're fancy like that) and tune in to hear some of the various thoughts that pop into my head. 

If you like random episodes like this and want me to make them more regular on the podcast, please reach out to me to let me know your thoughts!! You can DM me through the podcast's insta, send me an email, come up to me in person, send me a letter via a messenger pigeon... whatever you want. And if you have any sort of answers to any of the random questions I brought up, please let me know! And if you have any questions for me, also reach out!!

Contact Balancing Act:

Email Moorea: moorea@balancingact.life

Balancing Act Website
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DISCLAIMER: Balancing Act: Life and Struggles of a Teenage Girl cannot and does not contain medical/health advice. The medical/health information is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical/health advice. THE USE OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON OUR SITE OR OUR PODCAST IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK.

In this episode of Balancing Act, I am joined by Dr. Michelle Solomon, a licensed clinical phycologist, to discuss social media, social comparison, and the journey towards self acceptance.

Dr. Solomon wrote her dissertation on "Social Media and Self Evaluation: The Examination of Social Media use on Identity, Social Comparison, and Self Esteem in Young Female Adults", which became the #1 most accessed dissertation in 2020! 

Dr. Solomon is SO knowledgable!! In this episode, she shares a GOLD MINE of cool science and practical tips including:
🔬 The science behind innate social comparison

👻 The dangers of social media’s ENORMOUS comparison pool

🧠 Social media’s scientific impact on our brains and why you're addicted

🧘 Navigating social media in a more balanced way

❤️ Using self acceptance and radical acceptance as tools to combat toxic comparisons

Resources Mentioned:
Dr. Solomon's Website

Contact Balancing Act:

Email Moorea: moorea@balancingact.life

Balancing Act Website
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DISCLAIMER: Balancing Act: Life and Struggles of a Teenage Girl cannot and does not contain medical/health advice. The medical/health information is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical/health advice. THE USE OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON OUR SITE OR OUR PODCAST IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK.

Hope that comes from realizing you’re not alone in your struggles and that there are resources to help you #ShedShame.

In this episode of Balancing Act, I have the honor of speaking with Alexandra Miles, the founder of Project Blackbird, a nonprofit organization dedicated to destigmatizing mental health. Project Blackbird hosts mental health panels at schools and other locations to foster a conversation around mental health, and to make it safer and more accessible for underserved populations to connect with local mental health support.

In this episode, we chat about:

🚀 Project Blackbird’s mission

❤️ Alexandra’s inspiration for starting this initiative

🎥 Using art and film to destigmatize mental health

🫶 Project Blackbird’s impact on participants

🐦‍⬛ Ways to support Project Blackbird’s mission (even without $$!)

📚 How Project Blackbird can be a resource for YOU

Resources mentioned:

Project Blackbird x Talkspace Free Therapy Initiative (Must be 18+ student to participate) 

Talkspace Free Therapy for NYC Teens (13-17 years old)

Project Blackbird’s Website

Project Blackbird’s Instagram

Project Blackbird’s Journal Archives

Support Project Blackbird

Email Alexandra: alexandra@projectblackbirdinc.org

Contact Balancing Act:

Email Moorea: moorea@balancingact.life

Balancing Act Website
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DISCLAIMER: Balancing Act: Life and Struggles of a Teenage Girl cannot and does not contain medical/health advice. The medical/health information is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical/health advice. THE USE OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON OUR SITE OR OUR PODCAST IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK.

In this episode of Balancing Act, I am joined by Sarah Horne, a 6th-year PsyD student in Clinical Psychology. Sarah has over seven year of experience in clinical research, and she wrote her dissertation on the cognitive processes underlying motivational deficits in depression. (Sounds really complicated but she explains this topic beautifully!)

This is an amazing episode for if you're feeling under the weather and want something that will validate your experience with depression, and will also provide you with tips for how to navigate depression moving forward. 

In this episode you'll learn:

📕 The definitions of depression and anhedonia
🔬Factors that contribute to depression
🤔 Tips to reframe your expectations regarding productivity when you're depressed 
😱 How shifting affective expectations can help you to have a more positive experience
📚About resources that can help you if you're navigating depression

Resources Mentioned:
The Trevor Project
The Crisis Textline
The Happiness Project
An Unquiet Mind

Contact Balancing Act:

Email Moorea: moorea@balancingact.life

Balancing Act Website
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DISCLAIMER: Balancing Act: Life and Struggles of a Teenage Girl cannot and does not contain medical/health advice. The medical/health information is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical/health advice. THE USE OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON OUR SITE OR OUR PODCAST IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK.

This podcast episode is a recording of a personal essay I wrote in my freshman year of high school to reflect on my struggle with perfectionism, anxiety, and eating disorder. In class, we were given the prompt "a moment of change". Below is the short reflection I wrote on how my essay reflects (or doesn't reflect) a moment of change.

"This essay covers the 'Moment of Change' prompt but not without a few modifications. Instead of a single moment of change, this essay explores multiple moments of challenge and how I faced them with a similar approach, perfection being the only outcome. This essay shows the shift between my focus on my appearance, my focus on the gym, and my focus on my academic achievements. When I feel lacking in one area, I try to use the others to support me, but when I feel lacking in all, then I fall. There is no significant change, there is no closure at the end of this essay because I have never found my own." - Moorea (2022)

This essay discusses my eating disorder and details toxic body image and self talk. If listening to this essay does not support your current relationship with food, your body, or your self image, please do not listen to the podcast. You are strong and brave for knowing your boundaries and sticking to them. Please find another episode or resource that will be more supportive of where you are in your journey right now.

Since this essay was written in 2022, I have experienced depression and a relapse in my eating disorder. While this essay does not tell the full story of my battle with perfectionism, anxiety, depression, and an eating disorder, it is an important piece of my self reflection - the thought patterns in the essay are still present in my life today.

This essay details my personal experience and by no means reflects the experiences of all people who struggle with perfectionism, anxiety, or an eating disorder. This is not written to promote the disordered thoughts present in the essay, but instead to allow myself and others to reflect on our experiences in a thoughtful, judgement-free way. Identifying the challenges we face is the first step towards working to overcome these obstacles.

When listening to this essay, please think critically about the content. Recognize that the thoughts surrounding food and body image are disordered and irrational - even though they can feel so real.

If you feel that this essay can support yourself or a loved one, you can also read it on the Balancing Act Website.

Contact Balancing Act:

Email Moorea: moorea@balancingact.life

Balancing Act Website
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DISCLAIMER: Balancing Act: Life and Struggles of a Teenage Girl cannot and does not contain medical/health advice. The medical/health information is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical/health advice. THE USE OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON OUR SITE OR OUR PODCAST IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK.

For a while, I genuinely had no clue. I don't think I'm the only teenager who's minorly (or majorly) confused by what these letters mean.

A quick Google search will reveal that these letters stand for "cognitive behavioral therapy" and "dialectical behavioral therapy". But for those of us who are still confused, this episode explains a LOT more about these therapies and how they can be used to help navigate stress, anxiety, OCD, depression, eating disorders, and so much more!

In this episode I am joined by Dr. Rebecca Skolnick, a licensed clinical phycologist and a co-founder of MindWell NYC, a group phycology practice in New York. Dr. Skolnick specializes in CBT, DBT, and exposure therapy, so she's the perfect person to explain what they are!

In this episode, you'll learn:

📕 The definitions of CBT and DBT
🔬 The science behind CBT and DBT
🤔How CBT and DBT are used
😱 The science behind exposure therapy
📚How to find resources to learn more CBT and DBT skills
🤹🏼 Some basic CBT and DBT skills for managing anxiety and body image

If you want to learn more CBT or DBT skills, stay tuned for more episodes with Dr. Skolnick, or check out "Conquering Anxiety: Science-Backed Tools for Teens with Dr. Rachel Hutt"!

Here are resources mentioned in the episode ->

MindWell's Recommended Books and Resources

MindWell NYC’s website:
www.mindwellnyc.com

MindWell NYC’s social media
Facebook

Instagram

Contact Balancing Act:

Email Moorea: moorea@balancingact.life

Balancing Act Website
Instagram

DISCLAIMER: Balancing Act: Life and Struggles of a Teenage Girl cannot and does not contain medical/health advice. The medical/health information is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical/health advice. THE USE OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON OUR SITE OR OUR PODCAST IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK.

But did you know that there are many practical, scientifically proven skills you can use to effectively navigate anxiety?? 🤯

(And no, not just deep breathing or “taking a walk”.) 

In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Rachel Hutt, a licensed clinical psychologist, Co-founder of MindWell NYC, and author of Feeling Better: CBT Workbook for Teens: Essential Skills and Activities to Help You Manage Moods, Boost Self-Esteem, and Conquer Anxiety. Dr. Hutt shares valuable insights and tools that you can start using right away to manage anxiety and to navigate other cornerstones of teen life.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
🧑‍🔬 The science behind anxiety 

🔺 The basics of the Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) triangle  

And Foundational skills to:

🧊 Manage physical symptoms of anxiety (hello, mammalian dive reflex!) 

😰 Effectively "check the facts" and navigate anxious thoughts or catastrophizing  
🤓 Remind yourself of unique aspects of your identity (unrelated to school!)
👪 Navigate disagreements with family members 
👭 Handle anxiety surrounding relationships

🫢 Approach tough conversations with friends 

I LOVED recording this episode and was honestly *mind-blown* by some of the techniques Dr. Hutt shared. Plus, she explains the science behind these tips in such a cool, relatable way!

Here are resources mentioned in the episode ->

Dr. Hutt's Book:
Feeling Better: CBT Workbook for Teens: Essential Skills and Activities to Help You Manage Moods, Boost Self-Esteem, and Conquer Anxiety

MindWell NYC’s website:
www.mindwellnyc.com

MindWell NYC’s social media
Facebook

Instagram

Dr. Hutt’s Contact Information:

Email: rhutt@mindwellnyc.com

Address: MindWell NYC

80 8th Avenue, Suite 600

New York, NY 10011

Phone: 646-809-5440 Ext. 503

Contact Balancing Act:

Email Moorea: moorea@balancingact.life

Balancing Act Website
Instagram

DISCLAIMER: Balancing Act: Life and Struggles of a Teenage Girl cannot and does not contain medical/health advice. The medical/health information is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical/health advice. THE USE OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON OUR SITE OR OUR PODCAST IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK.

Ummmm… what?

Stress is stressful and I don’t like being stressed!! 😤 

But I’ll trust Dr. Damour on this one - she’s the expert.

In this episode, I have the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Lisa Damour, a clinical psychologist who specializes in the development of young girls and women. Dr. Damour has authored three New York Times bestsellers - Untangled, Under Pressure, and The Emotional Lives of Teenagers and hosts a podcast “Ask Lisa: The Psychology of Parenting”  - which all provide expert advice on how to help teenagers navigate the challenges of teenage years. And here’s a super cool fact: Dr. Damour to worked on Inside Out 2 to help it more accurately represent anxiety and puberty!!

In this episode you’ll learn how to:

🧘 Recover from stress so that it becomes growth-giving and not unhealthy 

🥲 Ask others for support 

🩷 Help loved ones who may be struggling 

🙅 Say “no” and set boundaries if you’re stretching yourself too thin 

🏫 Shift your mindset surrounding the stress behind college admissions

👪 Better navigate parental pressure

📚 Be strategic at school to do your best without overwhelming yourself

I learned so much from this episode and I hope you will too!

Here are some resources mentioned in the podcast:

You can find all of Dr. Damour’s books, resources, articles, podcasts, and social media accounts through her website

https://drlisadamour.com/

Contact Balancing Act
Email Moorea: moorea@balancingact.life

Balancing Act Website
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DISCLAIMER: Balancing Act: Life and Struggles of a Teenage Girl cannot and does not contain medical/health advice. The medical/health information is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical/health advice. THE USE OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON OUR SITE OR OUR PODCAST IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK.

Being a teenage girl can be so overwhelming - and I would know because I'm a teenage girl!

Society is constantly bombarding us with so many contradicting and OVERWHELMING expectations detailing who we need to be in the world: from the structure of our faces, to the shape of our bodies, the way we act, the grades we get, the clothes we wear, the people we date, and so much more!!

Balancing Act is a supportive, validating, and educational community where it's okay to struggle. I'm not hosting this podcast because I claim to have it all figured out - because I really have no clue what I'm doing like 75% of the time!

But it's okay to have no clue!!

Balancing Act is a place where we can learn together, grow together, and support one another as we navigate teenage life together.

I hope this podcast can help you to feel a little less alone in your journey and struggles, and that you'll consider subscribing to the podcast and sharing it with a loved one if you think it could help them as well. 🫶

Contact Balancing Act:

Email Moorea: moorea@balancingact.life

Balancing Act Website
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DISCLAIMER: Balancing Act: Life and Struggles of a Teenage Girl cannot and does not contain medical/health advice. The medical/health information is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical/health advice. THE USE OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON OUR SITE OR OUR PODCAST IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK.

Being a teenage girl is hard. Like REALLY hard.

As teenage girls, it feels like society is constantly bombarding us with messages saying that we need to be beautiful but not vain or slutty; outspoken but not obnoxious; likable, agreeable, and independent but not bossy or b*tchy or loud; active on social media but not addicted; thin but not sickly thin; curvy but not too curvy; that we should love ourselves but not be self obsessed; that we need to be smart but not without a social life… and that's just scratching the surface.

It's no wonder that so many teenage girls feel overwhelmed by these contradicting and completely unrealistic expectations.

Hosted by Moorea, a teenage girl from New York, Balancing Act brings you weekly episodes to help you navigate life's balancing act and related challenges.

Moorea interviews guests to bring you relatable conversations, personal stories, and practical, expert advice to help you navigate and conquer the chaotic seas of teenage life.

We tackle topics relevant to teen life and struggles like:
- Mental health
- School
- Friendships
- Crushes
- Family life
- Parental pressure
- Eating disorders
- Body image  
- Athletics
- College admissions
- Sexuality
- AND SO MUCH MORE!! 

Moorea also aims to crush stigmas surrounding the lives and struggles of teenage girls. She's not afraid to ask guests the questions we all have (and look up on incognito mode) but really don't want to ask.

In her solo episodes, Moorea isn't afraid to speak openly about her personal struggles. To name a few, she's on medication for anxiety and depression, and has been battling an eating disorder since 6th grade.

Look - life's a balancing act and sometimes you fall on your face... but you are not alone.

DISCLAIMER: Balancing Act: Life and Struggles of a Teenage Girl cannot and does not contain medical/health advice. The medical/health information is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Accordingly, before taking any actions based upon such information, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals. We do not provide any kind of medical/health advice. THE USE OR RELIANCE OF ANY INFORMATION CONTAINED ON OUR SITE OR OUR PODCAST IS SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK.