Isn't it cute how we have to respond to an email, but our nervous sytem thinks it's a bear?

In this episode, I sit down with Marina Wright, author of The Cortisol Reset Plan, to talk about what's actually happening inside our stressed-out, overworked bodies.

In this conversation, you're going to learn what exactly cortisol is and why modern life is asking ancient systems to do impossible things.

Marina explains that we often try to go right to psychological fixes when we are stressed out. But in her reset plan, she offers several physical focuses that can cut our stress.

In this conversation, you'll learn:

• What the two causes of stress are (psychological and physical)
• Why there's a mismatch between what our nervous system is meant to do and what it's being asked to do
• Five steps to reset your cortisol
• Easy tools to implement into your life today

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Marina Wright is a functional nutrition practitioner, health coach, and author of The Cortisol Reset Plan. She helps people build resilience to both physical and psychological stress, supporting lasting physical, mental, and emotional well‑being. Marina earned her bachelor's degree from the University of Navarra in Spain and holds certifications from Functional Diagnostic Nutrition and the Institute for Integrative Nutrition. She has also trained in Nutritional Psychiatry through Deakin University's Food and Mood Academy and in Somatic Stress Release with The Embody Lab. Bridging the gap between science and holistic healing, Marina translates complex concepts in nutrition, stress management, and lifestyle medicine into simple, practical habits. Her mission is to empower people to take charge of their health, cultivate resilience, and thrive in body, mind, and spirit.

*This is an affiliate link. I make a small commission when you buy. Thank you for using my link.

It has been a long five years since the pandemic, and I completely understand if your growth feels invisible.

Before you rush into new goals, routines, or resolutions for 2026, this is your permission to pause, reflect, and move forward with clarity instead of pressure.

In this episode of Happiness in Progress, I walk you through how to intentionally close the Year of the Snake (2025) and step into the Year of the Horse (2026). I love the idea that the Year of the Snake set up the Year of the Horse. We're not starting over. We are continuing the work. New year, same you.

What You'll Learn:

• Why slow growth isn't a waste

• How the Year of the Snake prepared you for visible growth

• What the Year of the Horse invites you to embody in 2026

• Reflection questions to release what no longer fits

• How to set intentions without burnout or overwhelm

Here are the questions you can revisit when you're next to your journal:

Releasing 2025

What did I outgrow in 2025?

What truth became clear?

Where did I learn to trust myself more?

What felt slow but but was actually necessary?

What am I ready to leave behind?

Entering 2026

Where am I ready to stop hiding or waiting for permission?

What decision have I already made internally that needs action?

Where do I want more space or ease this year?

Let's connect!

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Check out my new lifestyle show

Most people think financial freedom means having more money, but that belief is exactly what keeps them stuck and unhappy.

In this episode of Happiness in Progress, I sit down with financial expert Phil Weiss to redefine what financial freedom actually is, how to prepare for retirement without fear, how to use tools like an HSA correctly, and the mindset shifts that separate stressed earners from people who feel truly secure.

In this episode, we cover:

• What financial freedom really means

• How to save for retirement without overwhelm

• How to use an HSA as a long-term wealth tool and other tangible tools

• The mindset shifts that create lasting financial freedom

Phil Weiss is the founder of Apprise Wealth Management. Phil has accumulated more than 25 years of experience in personal finance and investment management. He holds esteemed credentials as a CFA, CPA, and RLP®. Phil has established himself as a recognized authority in his field, frequently serving as a media spokesperson, market commentator, and podcast guest.

Podcast resources:

The Art of Spending Money - https://amzn.to/3L2Y0aX
The Psychology of Money - https://amzn.to/3YcmOQL

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Get Phil's ebook

If you liked this, check this episode out:

The Money Mindset You Need ft. Latasha Kinnard

Getting Out of Debt Together ft. Jason and Ashleigh Mayfield