This Week: Kinetic Surrender — crossing thresholds, leaving old containers, and becoming without permission.

In this episode, Kirk sits down with La Shanda Sugg of Kinetic Surrender for a wide-ranging conversation about transition, identity, and what it’s like to be a fire hydrant masquerading as a water fountain.

As Shanda steps away from her role as a traditional therapist into something not yet fully defined, the two explore living in alignment, surrender while in motion, and what it means to stop shrinking to fit containers that can no longer hold who you are becoming.

Their conversation moves through themes of freedom and choice, intensity and integration, fear and nervous-system wisdom, and the courage it takes to release old identities while trusting what’s emerging on the other side of the threshold.

Guest:
La Shanda Sugg — Kinetic Surrender

Links:

Kinetic Surrender: https://kineticsurrender.com

Disclaimer:
This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for therapy, counseling, medical advice, or professional care. Listening to this episode does not create a therapist–client relationship. If you are experiencing a mental health emergency, please contact local emergency services or a qualified professional.

This week: Dashboard lights — the warning signals in your body and life that deserve attention. Plus, we introduce February's book club pick.

• Under the Hood: Dashboard Lights (HALT and other internal warning signs)
• Worth the Read: Atomic Habits by James Clear (January) + introducing The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin (February)

Links:

• Atomic Habits: https://amzn.to/4bgY7u0
• The Happiness Project: https://amzn.to/4qLucP7

It’s here. The first episode of This is 50.

January’s theme is The Engine—what drives you. In the “Under the Hood” segment, I’m asking the question I ask my clients all the time: What’s actually motivating you right now? Not what you think should motivate you. What’s really under there when you pop the hood?

Also in this episode:

• Worth the Read: Atomic Habits by James Clear is our January book club pick. If you’ve been meaning to read it (or reread it), now’s the time. Grab a copy here.

• Mix Tape: I’m currently deep into Exit Strategy, Jack Reacher book #30.

I’m curious: What’s driving your engine right now?

Kirk Sheppard is turning fifty and reckoning with a lifetime of hiding, control, and desperately wanting to be seen—on his own terms. This podcast follows his threshold year: separating what to keep from what to leave behind.

Featuring "Under the Hood" self-care check-ins (car metaphors for inner work) and "Worth the Read" book discussions, plus honest reflections on vulnerability, therapy, creativity, and the terrifying prospect of dancing in public.

This isn't a guide. It's a journey. You're invited to ride along.