Episodes

  • The Power of Positive Self-Talk

    The Power of Positive Self-Talk
    Jul 11 2024
    Have you ever found yourself being criticized or belittled by your inner voice? If you have, you’re not alone. Many victims of narcissistic abuse still hear the voices of their abuser, even years after cutting contact. These negative voices can make it difficult to recover, heal, and move on in life. But what exactly is the inner voice and how does it affect us? What prompted this episode? A woman from the Ladies Take Control community who was brave enough to reach out to host, Katie Mares. In this solo episode, Katie discusses the impact of negative self-talk, particularly for those in abusive situations, and the importance of positive self-talk in shaping one's reality. She emphasizes how a a positive mindset can contribute to both healing and personal growth, providing practical advice on how to shift from negative to positive. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    35 mins
  • Jessica Moorhouse: Taking Control of Your Financial Health

    Jessica Moorhouse: Taking Control of Your Financial Health
    Jun 27 2024
    Host Katie Mares interviews financial expert Jessica Moorhouse. They discuss the importance of financial health and provide tips for taking control of your finances. They emphasize the need to start with a solid foundation, including creating an emergency fund and budget which reflects your living expenses. They also discuss the importance of budgeting and tracking spending. They address common challenges such as procrastination and mindset issues around money. They encourage women to break the cycle of not talking about money and seek out communities and resources that normalize these conversations. They also touch on the role of social media in perpetuating money shame and the importance of not comparing oneself to others. They also explore the financial challenges faced by victims of abuse and provide practical advice on how to become financially prepared and thrive after leaving an abusive relationship. Jessica shares insights from her upcoming book, which aims to help readers understand and overcome their insecurities around money. Takeaways Financial health is an important aspect of overall well-being and should not be neglected. Start by creating a solid foundation, including an emergency fund and understanding your living expenses. Budgeting and tracking your spending are essential for taking control of your finances. Procrastination and mindset issues can hinder financial progress, but consistency and self-belief are key. Break the cycle of not talking about money and seek out communities and resources that normalize these conversations. Social media can contribute to money shame by creating a false sense of comparison and the pressure to keep up with others' lifestyles. Financial abuse occurs in 98% of abusive relationships, making it difficult for victims to leave due to a lack of financial independence. To become financially prepared and thrive after leaving an abusive relationship, it is important to reach out to trusted individuals for support, seek resources from organizations that assist abuse victims, and focus on finding employment and building financial stability. Money is not a thing but a tool that should flow and be controlled by individuals. It is essential to remove fear and shame around money and take proactive steps to improve one's financial situation. Recognize and address the fears that hold you back from taking action with your finances, and seek practical advice and resources to overcome them. Money is energy, and it is important to put positive energy into it while taking action to achieve financial goals. Resources referenced by Katie and Jessica in this episode: https://cba.ca/financial-abuse-what-you-need-to-know-and-where-to-get-help https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/corporate/seniors/forum/financial-abuse.html https://www.thehotline.org/ https://www.verywellmind.com/financial-abuse-4155224 https://jessicamoorhouse.com/podcast/ep-216-understanding-financial-abuse-jana-lynch/ Financial Abuse - PCADV https://desis.osu.edu/seniorthesis/index.php/2022/09/27/reasons-why-women-dont-want-to-talk-about-money/ Connect with Jessica Moorhouse: https://jessicamoorhouse.com Access Jessica's Budget Spreadsheets: https://jessicamoorhouse.com/shop Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    44 mins
  • The Power of Choice

    The Power of Choice
    Jun 13 2024
    Host Katie Mares shares an update on her personal journey of healing and growth after a traumatic relationship, emphasizing the importance of shifting your mindset and choosing positivity, joy, and grace in the face of hurdles. She discusses transforming her life through the power of choice, highlighting the importance of daily gratitude practices, manifestations, and living in the present moment to find joy and success. Mares encourages listeners to recognize that they are one decision away from a more fulfilling life. She invites Ladies Take Control producer Sarah Burke to join her for some reflection as they discuss their respective experiences with shifting mindsets, confidence, and shared experiences in their respective fields. "The Power of Her" event hosted by LTC Community is June 14th at 9am central, as we gather together to be inspired to step into our power. 🎤 This virtual event is a call for women everywhere to unite, inspire, and empower each other. Learn strategies and insights to harness your potential and transform your life. Tickets are absolutely FREE! 📅 Can't make it on the day? No worries! Register anyway, and you'll receive a recording of the event. No excuses, right? Secure your spot now: https://bit.ly/Thepowerofher Find out more about Sarah Burke's Women in Media Network: https://www.womeninmedia.network/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    47 mins
  • Elizabeth Manley: National Figure Skating Champion and Mental Health Warrior

    Elizabeth Manley: National Figure Skating Champion and Mental Health Warrior
    May 30 2024
    Host Katie Mares met Olympic medalist and Executive coach Elizabeth Manley a few weeks before this episode was recorded. In honour of May being Mental Health Awareness month, she invites Liz to share her journey from athlete to mental health advocate. The conversation explores the importance of vulnerability, self-care, the impact of mental health on women in abusive situations and the need for self-acceptance. After spending more the twenty years in the United States performing and coaching, Liz now lives in Collingwood, Ontario. Liz was the Director of Skating for the Granite Club. Liz is a certified Life/Executive Coach with CTI International and holds a degree with CCPC International Coaching Federation. She is also a Certified Reiki healer. She focuses on inner well being, emotional traumas and issues while inspiring clients to move forward in life in a more positive way. As she says... “The best project you can work on ...is yourself!”. Clients range from professional athletes to executives. Elizabeth also worked with Expert ADHD Coaching as an Executive Coach. She has also written two autobiographies, Thumbs Up- The Elizabeth Manley Story and Elizabeth Manley - As I am. Liz was named " Woman of the Year " by Chatelaine magazine in 1988 and Athlete of the Year for Canada in 1988. She has many awards and accolades to her name including recipient of “ The Royal Order of Canada” by the Governor General, the Queens Jubilee Award and honourary degree recipient from Algonquin College. Liz is a member of the Olympic Hall of Fame, the Ottawa Sports Hall of Fame, Skate Canada Hall of Fame, the Belleville Sports Hall of Fame, the Ontario Sports Hall of Fame, and Canada's Sports Hall of Fame. Liz now spends her time with coaching, speaking engagements, charitable work, and producing. She has a rink that the city named after her in Gloucester, Ontario, The Elizabeth Manley International Training Centre and a park named after her in Ottawa, Ontario. Elizabeth runs competitive seminars in Canada and the United States working with hockey camps and multiple teams including Ottawa, Toronto, and Collingwood. Connect with Elizabeth Manley on Instagram @lizmanley88 or on X @lizmanley88. Find mental health resources from the Canadian Mental Health Association: https://cmha.ca/ Find out more information about the Ladies Take Control Community: https://ladiestakecontrol.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 hr and 2 mins
  • Cait Alexander: Let's Fix the Justice System

    Cait Alexander: Let's Fix the Justice System
    May 16 2024
    In part two on the topic of intimate partner violence (IPV), host Katie Mares interviews survivor Cait Alexander, a victim who is fighting the Canadian justice system with her constant advocacy and activism. They discuss the importance of taking action to support victims and survivors, the need for legislative change to prevent intimate partner violence, and the role of awareness, funding, and legislation in creating lasting change. They also highlight the prevalence of intimate partner violence and the need for victims to be heard and supported. Cait shares her personal experience with the legal system and discusses the importance of community support, self-care, and accessing resources for healing. Cait Alexander is a multifaceted artist – actress, singer, model, songwriter, pianist, composer, and poet. Her ambition in every medium is to tell the most honest story. From her small town Canadian roots, to a career on the International stage starting in fashion, Cait has walked the world’s runways and graced magazine covers all over. Having started in theatre as a child, Cait has risen to roles in countless commercials, major TV shows and films: The Handmaids Tale, Clarice, My Next Door Nightmare and Spinning Gold. She has even starred in Bollywood movies, while embracing working in diverse cultures. She has a BA in Theatre from York University in Toronto and Certificate in Film/TV Composing from Berklee College of Music and has completed Royal Conservatory Level 8 Piano and Theory 2. She has a vested interest in studying law and is working towards taking the Bar. Aside from accolades, there is the most important quality: intent. Whatever the medium she aims to connect sincerely with you, through photos, on the screen, by song, and on the page. She hopes you learns something about yourself, heal or become inspired to your own greatness. Cait is hosting and co-chairing a Gala at the Four Seasons in Toronto on October 24th, 2024 with Shelter Movers, members of the NHL, billionaires, celebrities, and more will be in attendance. Follow her instagram or connect with Cait on her website for updates: https://www.caitalexander.com/ Read more: CTV News (https://toronto.ctvnews.ca/attempted-murder-is-not-a-priority-victims-of-tossed-out-cases-speak-out-amid-lower-ont-justice-funding-1.6826046) CP24 (https://www.cp24.com/news/attempted-murder-is-not-a-priority-victims-of-tossed-out-cases-speak-out-amid-lower-ont-justice-funding-1.6826067) CityNews Toronto (https://toronto.citynews.ca/2024/03/28/stop-with-the-excuses-emotional-appeals-to-overhaul-court-system-amid-growing-backlogs/) Global News (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iXsYIrbY7Vk) Cait's favourite Yoga instructor on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/yogawithadriene Sign the petition Katie and Cait reference in this episode: https://www.ontariondp.ca/bill-173 Read more about Bill 173: https://www.ola.org/en/legislative-business/bills/parliament-43/session-1/bill-173 https://www.cp24.com/news/intimate-partner-violence-could-be-declared-an-epidemic-in-ontario-after-ford-gov-t-says-it-will-back-ndp-bill-1.6841266 https://www.ontariondp.ca/news/ontario-ndp-bill-brings-ontario-one-step-closer-declaring-intimate-partner-violence-epidemic RESOURCES Resources in Canada for Family and Intimate Partner Violence The Assaulted Women’s Helpline is a free, anonymous telephone line for women in Ontario experiencing any form of abuse. National Child Abuse Hotline: 24/7 at 1-800-422-4453 National Domestic Violence Hotline: 24/7 at 1-800-799−7233 National Sexual Assault Hotline: 24/7 at 1-800-656-4673 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 24/7 at 1-800-273-8255 Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Helpline: 24/7 at 1-800-622-4357 Crisis Text Line: 24/7 text DS to 741741 Find out more information about the Ladies Take Control Community: https://ladiestakecontrol.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    46 mins
  • Bill 173: Addressing Intimate Partner Violence

    Bill 173: Addressing Intimate Partner Violence
    May 2 2024
    In this episode, Katie Mares discusses her personal experience with intimate partner violence (IPV) and highlights the importance of recognizing IPV as an epidemic. She shares her positive experience attending a bill hearing for Bill 173, which aims to declare IPV as an epidemic in Ontario. Katie emphasizes the need for prevention, promoting health, and prolonging life in addressing IPV. She also discusses the impact of IPV on individuals and society, including the mental health toll, economic consequences, and the importance of breaking the silence surrounding IPV. Katie encourages listeners to sign a petition in support of Bill 173 and thanks the London Abused Women's Centre, survivors, government officials, and supporters for their efforts in addressing IPV. Sign the petition Katie mentions in this episode: https://www.ontariondp.ca/bill-173 Listen to the recent episode with guest Jennifer Dunn Read more about Bill 173: https://www.ola.org/en/legislative-business/bills/parliament-43/session-1/bill-173 https://www.cp24.com/news/intimate-partner-violence-could-be-declared-an-epidemic-in-ontario-after-ford-gov-t-says-it-will-back-ndp-bill-1.6841266 https://www.ontariondp.ca/news/ontario-ndp-bill-brings-ontario-one-step-closer-declaring-intimate-partner-violence-epidemic RESOURCES Resources in Canada for Family and Intimate Partner Violence The Assaulted Women’s Helpline is a free, anonymous telephone line for women in Ontario experiencing any form of abuse. National Child Abuse Hotline: 24/7 at 1-800-422-4453 National Domestic Violence Hotline: 24/7 at 1-800-799−7233 National Sexual Assault Hotline: 24/7 at 1-800-656-4673 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 24/7 at 1-800-273-8255 Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Helpline: 24/7 at 1-800-622-4357 Crisis Text Line: 24/7 text DS to 741741 Find out more information about the Ladies Take Control Community: https://ladiestakecontrol.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    25 mins
  • Carlen Costa: Understanding Sexual Abuse

    Carlen Costa: Understanding Sexual Abuse
    Apr 18 2024
    In this conversation, Katie Mares and Psychotherapist Carlen Costa discuss topics and tools related to sexual assault, domestic abuse, and the importance of self-care. They explore concepts such as manipulation, narcissism, and gaslighting, and how these behaviors can contribute to trauma bonds. The conversation explores the dynamics of abusive relationships and the reasons why victims may stay in them. It emphasizes that being in an abusive relationship is not a reflection of the victim's worth or choices, but rather the result of the abuser's intentions. Victim-blaming and self-gaslighting are common responses that hinder victims from recognizing the red flags and leaving the relationship. The conversation also delves into the concept of fear being disguised as love, where intense emotions and hyper-arousal can be mistaken for love and excitement. It highlights the importance of validating one's own experiences, seeking support from others, and creating a safety plan to break free from the cycle of abuse. In this part of the conversation, Carlen shares her personal experience of sexual assault and the impact it had on her. They discuss the importance of holding perpetrators accountable, the importance of checking in with oneself and seeking validation when boundaries are crossed. Carlen Costa is a dynamic OCSWSSW psychotherapist, clinical sexologist, psychedelic-assisted psychotherapist and cannabis educator based in London, Ontario, Canada. She engages you to learn how to love yourself and others better through her revolutionary love and mental wealth lifestyle brand that is committed to making a positive impact. Her passion for empowering others extends to her role as the host of The Spicy Fat Podcast, where she delves into topics ranging from ADHD, weight loss, positive body image, mental health, love, relationships, to cannabis and psychedelics. This podcast, available on YouTube, reflects Carlen's mission to guide women entering their 40s in understanding their bodies, brains, and hearts while fostering radical self-love. Find out more about Carlen Costa and her practice: https://www.carlencosta.com/ April is Sexual Assault Awareness Month https://opdv.ny.gov/april-sexual-assault-awareness-month April is Sexual Assault Awareness month; a month of solidarity dedicated to sexual assault victims. It’s meant to raise awareness about the prevalence of sexual assault and violence while sharing information and resources to foster a great understanding of consent. Some statistics from www.sexassault.ca: 1 in 4 women in North America will be sexually assaulted in their lifetime. For every 100 incidents in Canada, only 6 are reported to police. Over 80% of sex crime victims in Canada are women. Fewer than half of sexual assault cases in adult criminal court result in a guilty verdict. (www.justice.gc.ca) Resources in Canada for Family and Intimate Partner Violence A note from the Women in Media Network: The WIMN is proud to support organizations that provide relief and guidance to women and girls who have been subjected to violence, trafficking, and/or homelessness. Proceeds from Women in Media Network launch merchandise will support the London Abused Women's Centre: https://www.womeninmedia.network/. Access the London Abused Women's Centre: https://www.lawc.on.ca/ The Assaulted Women’s Helpline is a free, anonymous telephone line for women in Ontario experiencing any form of abuse. National Child Abuse Hotline: 24/7 at 1-800-422-4453 National Domestic Violence Hotline: 24/7 at 1-800-799−7233 National Sexual Assault Hotline: 24/7 at 1-800-656-4673 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 24/7 at 1-800-273-8255 Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Helpline: 24/7 at 1-800-622-4357 Crisis Text Line: 24/7 text DS to 741741 Find out more information about the Ladies Take Control Community: https://ladiestakecontrol.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    53 mins
  • Breaking the Silence

    Breaking the Silence
    Apr 4 2024
    *Episode Disclaimer* This podcast explores topics surrounding domestic abuse. Listener discretion is advised. Host Katie Mares explores the process and challenges of breaking the silence surrounding domestic abuse. She discusses reasons why survivors may choose not to report abuse and the fear and consequences they may face. Katie discusses backlash from abusers and the positive effects of sharing and speaking up. As always, Katie emphasizes the importance of community support and provides practical advice for survivors who are considering breaking their silence. Takeaways Breaking the silence surrounding domestic abuse is a complex and individualized process that requires courage and support. Survivors may choose not to report abuse due to fear, shame, and lack of trust in the system. Breaking the silence can lead to backlash from abusers, but it can also empower survivors and help others recognize their own abuse. Community support and resources are crucial for survivors who choose to break their silence. The journey from surviving to thriving requires self-worth, a positive mindset, and ongoing healing and growth. Chapters (00:00) Introduction (02:10) Reasons for not reporting abuse (03:28) Reactions and experiences after breaking silence (05:08) The impact of breaking silence (08:17) The continuation of abuse (09:10) The self-gaslighting fight (09:38) The power of sharing and speaking up (13:51) The challenges of life after abuse (15:35) The process of healing and growth (22:39) The impact of breaking silence on the survivor (28:45) Creating a safer society (31:43) Ways to prepare for breaking silence (36:12) The reporting process (39:04) The importance of community support (41:18) The journey from surviving to thriving (45:02) The power of sharing and being heard (52:52) The importance of celebrating progress (54:46) Conclusion Resources Resources in Canada for Family and Intimate Partner Violence A note from the Women in Media Network: The WIMN is proud to support organizations that provide relief and guidance to women and girls who have been subjected to violence, trafficking, and/or homelessness. All proceeds from Women in Media Network launch merchandise will support the London Abused Women's Centre. https://www.womeninmedia.network/. Access the London Abused Women's Centre: https://www.lawc.on.ca/ The Assaulted Women’s Helpline is a free, anonymous telephone line for women in Ontario experiencing any form of abuse. National Child Abuse Hotline: 24/7 at 1-800-422-4453 National Domestic Violence Hotline: 24/7 at 1-800-799−7233 National Sexual Assault Hotline: 24/7 at 1-800-656-4673 National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 24/7 at 1-800-273-8255 Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Helpline: 24/7 at 1-800-622-4357 Crisis Text Line: 24/7 text DS to 741741 Find out more information about the Ladies Take Control Community: https://ladiestakecontrol.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    36 mins