As hairbrushes, planners, random papers, sentimental items, and misplaced essentials come spilling out, Amanda reflects on pageant life, manifestation tools like her law of attraction planner, and the emotional weight we carry without noticing. What begins as a funny, almost accidental bit turns into a relatable conversation about self-awareness, overcommitment, and embracing imperfection. Amanda’s humor and vulnerability make this episode feel like a chat with a friend who’s laughing right alongside you.

The episode also includes a reminder about the upcoming Mrs. Utah America Project, encouraging listeners to show support either virtually or in person. This is a perfect listen for fans of personal growth podcasts, self-discovery, manifestation, pageant journeys, and anyone who’s ever wondered how their outer clutter connects to their inner world.

✨ Subscribe to our channel: 👉 YouTube.com/@notsogeniusmindpodcast

While cleaning out her parents’ belongings, Amanda uncovers surprising artifacts that spark reflection and curiosity. A 1943 self-improvement course promising charm and conversation skills opens a conversation about confidence and social conditioning. Handwritten family histories dating back to 1864 Utah reveal generational resilience, forgotten voices, and the emotional weight of legacy. These discoveries lead Amanda to reflect on manifestation, healing, and her long-held dream of creating a therapeutic farm space rooted in peace, purpose, and connection.

This episode blends humor, vulnerability, and quiet insight as Amanda explores emotional decluttering, generational trauma, personal growth, pageant life, and the courage it takes to honor the past while stepping into the future. It’s a reminder that growth often begins in the mess, and meaning is sometimes hiding in the boxes we least expect to open.

✨ Subscribe to our channel: 👉 YouTube.com/@notsogeniusmindpodcast

Resources & Mentions:

• Vintage 1943 conversation and charm course
• Handwritten family histories tracing ancestors to 1864 Utah
• Reflections on manifestation, emotional healing, and therapeutic farm dreams

You’ll hear practical tips for coping with grief during the holidays: creating new traditions to honor loved ones, giving yourself permission to say “no” to overwhelming expectations, and leaning into community support. Amanda also reminds us that laughter and tears can live side by side, and that carrying love forward is the true meaning of healing.

If this season feels heavy, this conversation offers comfort, validation, and hope. Whether you’re grieving or supporting someone who is, you’ll find insights and encouragement to help you navigate the holidays with grace.

• A Christmas Carol (Tim Curry narration on Audible)
• The Muppet Christmas Carol (Michael Caine as Scrooge)
• Hale Center Theater production of A Christmas Carol
• Amanda’s tradition idea: homemade cinnamon rolls to honor loved ones

👉 Subscribe to our channel: YouTube.com/@notsogeniusmindpodcast
👍 Like, share, and leave a review to help others find this episode.

Amanda also opens up about pageants (Mrs. Utah America, USOA, Continental Worldwide), returning to Daybreak, and stepping onto the runway at Milan Fashion Week with Robin Towel Designs during her first trip abroad—complete with cobblestones, confidence, and new perspectives in Rome. It’s a grounded, inspiring reset that invites listeners to embrace imperfection, laugh at the pockets of joy (hello, pocket chickens named Harry Styles), and practice resilience in small, everyday ways. Want to be a guest? Amanda’s safe‑space invitation stands: bring the stories we don’t talk about enough.

Subscribe to our channel: YouTube.com/@notsogeniusmindpodcast

Resources & Mentions: Wellness Firm Foundation (grief‑focused farm) Petunia (700‑lb pig), peacocks, goats Pageants: Mrs. Utah America, USOA, Continental Worldwide Milan Fashion Week; Robin Towel Designs; Rome Instagram: @notsogenius Websites: notsogeniusmind.com, notsogeniuspodcast.com

In this episode, Amanda McCombs, also known as Mrs. Daybreak, shares her journey preparing for a pageant while engaging in community efforts.

Amanda successfully raised $1,400 for the nonprofit organization Hearts Knit Together through a birthday charity gala. She highlights her visit to their new facility in Utah County, the dedication of the staff, and the heartfelt work they do. Amanda also updates on her new title, Mrs. Utah, and introduces the upcoming segments featuring an interview with April, who runs Hearts Knit Together. Listeners are encouraged to support the nonprofit through donations and stay tuned for more exciting content.

00:00 Welcome to the Not So Genius Mind

00:45 Pageant Preparations and Interviews

01:10 Charity Gala Success

02:07 Tour of Hearts Knit Together Facility

21:22 Conclusion and Future Plans

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, host Amanda McCombs, aka Mrs. Daybreak, joins Mrs. Maple Mountain, Portia Blanchard, to discuss the profound life lessons learned through motherhood, personal struggles, and the unique experiences of participating in beauty pageants. They delve into embracing imperfections, the importance of showing up authentically, and how Portia's traumatic experience with her youngest child, Abigail, led her to publish an inspirational book and take part in pageantry. Amid humorous anecdotes, real-life parenting moments, and reflections on personal growth, they celebrate the transformative power of vulnerability and community support. This episode encourages everyone to own their stories, take pride in their journey, and shine their light unapologetically.  

00:00 Welcome and Introductions

00:16 Funny Anecdote About Portia's Name

01:26 Meet Portia Blanchard

02:30 Abigail's Birth Story

03:56 Life Lessons and Reflections

06:54 Family Dynamics and Blended Families

12:02 The Importance of Self-Care

20:04 Pageantry and Personal Growth

31:33 Owning Your Story and Self-Confidence

34:11 Reflecting on Achievements

34:52 Celebrate Yourself

35:20 Living Out Loud

37:39 Taking Up Space

39:17 Pageant Lessons

42:00 The Power of Pageantry

45:29 Community and Support

59:19 From Letters to Book

01:00:31 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts

In this episode of 'Inner Workings of the Not So Genius Mind,' host Amanda McCombs chats with Jaimee Beard, a dance professional and community figure. Jamie, the titleholder of Miss Nebo Valley, discusses her career, including her journey to owning the North Point Academy of Dance and creating the 'Dance with a Purpose' platform.

The conversation touches on the challenges and joys of maintaining a dance studio, starting a business during the COVID-19 pandemic, and dealing with a celiac disease diagnosis. Jamie's commitment to living intentionally and giving back to her community, especially through her dance platform, shines through. The episode also delves into the camaraderie and support within the pageant community and personal anecdotes about dating, friendships, and navigating life's uncertainties.  

00:00 Welcome and Introductions

00:40 Jamie's Background and Dance Studio

01:35 Living with Purpose

02:31 Starting the Dance Studio

03:40 Personal Challenges and Realizations

06:02 Casual Conversations and Anecdotes

12:43 Dating and Relationships

19:19 Reflecting on Relationships and Personal Growth

19:51 The Exhausting Yet Rewarding World of Pageants

20:29 Journey Through Pageantry: From High School to Miss America

22:50 The Supportive Pageant Community

26:02 Making a Difference: Community Service and Nonprofits

33:10 The Power of Social Media and Personal Expression

39:13 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans

Amanda McCombs hosts a conversation with Kimberly Wirfs, a business owner, widow, and mother of three, currently Miss Bountiful for the upcoming Mrs. Utah American Pageant. They discuss pageant experiences, resilience, preparedness, and personal stories, including the impact of life's unexpected events and the creation of Kimberly's 'Life's Essential Binder' to help people organize important documents. They also explore their shared experiences with tattoos and life as military spouses. The episode highlights the importance of living fully and being prepared for life-changing moments.  

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:40 Pageant Experiences and Expectations

02:12 Pageant Preparations and Challenges

06:59 Life's Essential Binder and Personal Stories

16:27 Tattoos and Their Meanings

21:57 Introduction to Douglas and Oregon Connection

23:11 Tattoo Stories and Personal Meanings

25:16 Military Life and Personal Resilience

29:03 Favorite Places and Future Plans

33:22 Pageant Experiences and Sisterhood

40:13 Concluding Thoughts and Farewell

In this engaging conversation, Amanda McCombs and guest Kim Chatto, Miss Willard Bay, explore themes of authenticity, community, and resilience. Kim shares her rich background, including her military service and transition to civilian life as a defense contractor. They discuss the importance of building and maintaining genuine connections, both in personal and professional spaces, and lifting each other up in a supportive community. Kim talks about her platform, Highly Favored, which emphasizes the importance of sharing stories of resilience to strengthen communities. They also touch on experiences in the pageant world, highlighting the positive energy and supportive environment it fosters. This episode is a deep dive into how real connections and community support can make a significant impact in one's life.  

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

01:03 Kim's Background and Military Career

03:54 Challenges and Pressures of Life

06:18 Importance of Community and Self-Care

08:34 Dating Experiences and Reflections

14:53 Parenting and Personal Growth

21:45 Podcast and Pageant Experiences

30:52 Reflecting on Missed Friendships

31:04 The Birth of Highly Favored Podcast

32:07 Intentional Connections and Podcasting

34:33 Empathy and Vulnerability in Pageantry

36:10 Overcoming Insecurities and Self-Doubt

43:00 The Power of Authenticity

46:40 Building Community and Support Systems

49:38 Navigating Life After Military Service

59:07 Celebrating Success and Female Empowerment

01:02:59 Finding Your Supportive Circle

01:08:21 Conclusion and Social Media Plugs

 In this heartfelt episode, Amanda McCombs, known as the Not So Genius, invites her Sash sister Kaylyn Lippert, a former Mrs. Wasatch Front, military spouse, registered nurse, and founder of Reclaimed, to discuss their close friendship and personal journeys. Kaylyn shares her deeply personal struggle with vaginismus, the impacts of purity culture, and her mission to reclaim her identity and help others through her ministry. Together, they discuss the importance of community, healing, and redefining intimacy and sexuality in a healthy, non-shaming way. They also talk about their experiences in pageantry and how it has helped them grow, build a supportive community, and serve others. Kaylyn details her vision for Reclaimed, including donation drives for menstrual products, educational tours, social media outreach, and future aspirations for a marriage retreat. The episode emphasizes the power of vulnerability, mutual support, and breaking free from harmful cultural narratives to achieve lasting healing and transformation.  

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

01:54 Kaylyn's Journey with Purity Culture

03:37 The Impact of Vaginismus

09:14 Finding Community and Support

19:28 The Role of Pageantry in Personal Growth

34:29 Personal Reflections on Family and Relationships

36:00 Impact of Purity Culture

36:53 Religious Teachings and Personal Beliefs

39:07 Challenges in Marriage and Family Dynamics

40:27 Navigating Social Media and Authenticity

51:39 Cultural Differences and Personal Growth

54:40 Reclaimed: Mission and Vision

01:00:39 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

In this episode of the 'Inner Workings of the Not So Genius Mind,' host Amanda McCombs shares her journey of self-care and dental health. She discusses her struggles with weak enamel, TMJ pain, and dental procedures, and emphasizes the importance of oral health. Amanda talks about her recent dental visit to Copper Creek Dental and how it alleviated her long-standing dental issues. She reflects on her newfound confidence in her smile, the emotional relief from not needing braces, and advises listeners on the significance of taking care of their teeth. Amanda concludes with light-hearted commentary and a reminder to prioritize self-care.  

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:26 Current Life Updates

00:51 Dental Health Struggles

01:54 Finding the Right Dentist

02:26 Dental Treatment Plan

06:48 Final Thoughts on Dental Health

08:41 Conclusion and Farewell

Join Amanda McCombs and her guest, Mrs. Utah County, as they dive into the intricacies of participating in beauty pageants and the profound personal growth that accompanies the journey. They discuss their individual experiences, the importance of community, empowering sisterhood, and how the challenges they face shape their resilience. Through candid conversations, they explore topics such as facing personal lows, the significance of genuine connections, and the role of pageantry in self-discovery and personal development. This episode sheds light on the transformative impact these pageants have beyond the glitz and glamour, focusing on authenticity, support systems, and building lasting legacies.  

00:00 Introduction to Amanda McCombs

00:12 Meet Mrs. Utah County

00:29 The Power of Sisterhood

01:26 Amanda's Personal Journey

03:06 The Pageant Experience

04:20 Community and Empowerment

05:56 Finding Genuine Connections

07:56 Overcoming Personal Struggles

10:29 The Pageant System's Impact

14:41 Starting the Pageant Journey

19:17 The First Pageant Experience

25:25 The Importance of Platforms

27:21 Struggles and Changes

28:53 Hiding Pain and Seeking Help

30:55 Legacy and Life Choices

32:29 Pageantry and Personal Growth

35:02 The Importance of Authenticity

47:44 Mentorship and Giving Back

54:31 Reflections and Future Plans

In this heartfelt episode, Amanda McCombs, also known as Mrs. Daybreak, chats with Chelsi Rasmussen, Mrs. Utah America, about their shared journey in the world of pageantry. They discuss their initial fears and the overwhelming support of their 'Sash sisterhood.' Throughout their conversation, they delve into the profound personal growth and healing both have experienced, offering advice on embracing change, finding one's voice, and the significance of community.

Chelsi shares her advocacy for sexual abuse prevention and the spiritual journey that has shaped her family and marriage after leaving their religious community. The episode is a testament to the deeper, transformative impact of participating in pageants and the power of authenticity and support.

00:00 Welcome to the Not So Genius Mind

00:47 First Meeting and Pageant Beginnings

03:26 The Power of Community and Support

12:01 From Survivor to Thriver

18:25 Personal Growth and Relationship Challenges

22:59 Redefining Spirituality and Family Values

27:50 Winning State and the Pageant High

28:45 The Journey to Nationals

31:42 The Mental Game of Pageants

34:31 Authenticity and Imposter Syndrome

38:47 Aligning with Personal Values

43:17 Manifesting and Journaling

45:53 Making Life Shifts and Seeking Support

49:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode, Amanda McCombs, also known as Mrs. Daybreak, shares her experiences and reflections on self-discovery and preparation for the upcoming Mrs. Utah America pageant. Amanda discusses the importance of personal growth through participation in the pageant and how it has helped shape her identity. She expresses her commitment to becoming a helper in her community, inspired by Mr. Rogers' famous advice.

Amanda introduces 'Hearts Knit Together', a nonprofit organization supporting victims of domestic violence and conflict, with which she plans to collaborate for her charity efforts. Amanda also recounts personal stories, including childhood traumas and challenges, emphasizing the significance of support and connection. She poignantly details her intent to host a Charity Gala for her birthday, aiming to benefit the nonprofit organization instead of receiving personal gifts.

Amanda updates listeners on her busy schedule, new podcast guests, and elaborates on the upcoming events, including the Charity Gala and the Mrs. Utah America pageant.

Charity Gala: https://www.facebook.com/events/457548960760902

00:00 Introduction to Amanda McCombs

00:41 Journey to Mrs. Utah America

01:52 Finding Purpose Through Charity

02:30 The Impact of Helping Others

03:04 Discovering Hearts Knit Together

06:44 Planning a Charity Gala

09:13 Reflections on Personal Struggles

17:36 Looking Forward: Upcoming Events

19:46 Conclusion and Social Media Links

In this candid podcast episode, Amanda McCombs returns after a long hiatus to share personal challenges and introspections. She discusses the recent passing of her father and the earlier loss of her mother, the impact of these events on her mental health, and her diagnosis of ADHD.

Amanda reflects on themes of resilience, traditions, and personal growth while acknowledging the importance of rest and community support. She highlights her new perspective on life's trials and her dedication to living fully, ending with a heartfelt tribute to her father and a preview of upcoming projects and charity events.

00:00 Welcome to the Inner Workings

01:48 Life Updates and Personal Struggles

04:19 Reflections on Loss and Traditions

06:30 Embracing Resilience

09:45 Finding Peace and Moving Forward

13:51 Honoring My Father's Legacy

18:32 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

🎧All Episodes: www.ridethewavemedia.com

From Cards to Chakras: A Practically Magical Episode

In this collaborative episode of 'Practically Magick,' host Courtney Pearl joins Amanda McCombs from the Ride The Wave Media Podcast Network. They catch up on life updates since their last interview in February, with a focus on recent events and personal growth. The conversation includes lighthearted discussions about unplanned outfit coordination, a preview of tarot and oracle card readings, and a reflective dialogue on the challenges and learnings from competitive pageant experiences. Amanda shares her journey of dealing with family losses, teaching career decisions, and finding her voice and sense of service. The episode features a live demonstration of Reiki energy healing, assessing Amanda's energy centers and exploring affirmations to balance them. Concluding with insights on holiday preparations and self-care, the episode provides listeners with a blend of spiritual practice and personal revelation.

00:00 Welcome to Practically Magic
00:45 Catching Up with Amanda McCombs
01:01 Unplanned Outfits and Synchronization
01:54 Card Pulling Session
06:41 Pageant Experiences and Lessons
15:38 Service and Community Involvement
19:30 Personal Challenges and Growth
26:58 Reflecting on Holiday Traditions
27:22 Christmas Wishes and Family Moments
27:41 Summer Celebrations and Gift Giving
28:09 Letting Go of Material Things
29:47 Podcast Recommendations and Paranormal Stories
32:38 Energy Healing and Reiki Demonstration
33:43 Balancing Chakras and Affirmations
49:00 Healing Through Art and Journaling
50:12 Concluding Thoughts and Farewells

In this insightful episode, Amanda McCombs shares her transformative experiences with ketamine therapy and attending the Equality Utah Ally Gala. Amanda opens up about the challenges and triumphs of her journey towards better health, both physically and mentally, as she completes six rounds of ketamine therapy. She candidly discusses the mental preparation and support required to undergo such a process, expressing gratitude to her team at Rising Health Specialty Clinic for their role in her healing journey.

Amanda takes us on a journey of self-discovery as she steps out of her comfort zone to attend the Equality Utah Ally Gala alone. Clad in her grand blue dress, she immerses herself in a vibrant and welcoming community, advocating for LGBTQ rights and celebrating diversity. Through this experience, Amanda reflects on the importance of love, acceptance, and being present in the moment, as she navigates a world that sometimes feels unfamiliar.

Join Amanda as she explores the themes of identity, courage, and community, all while embracing her role as Mrs. Daybreak and supporting a cause close to her heart. From the enchanting theme of the gala to the heartfelt connections made, Amanda's story is a testament to the power of stepping outside one's comfort zone and embracing the beauty of the human experience.

(00:00) Amanda McCombs finished six rounds of ketamine therapy to improve health

(02:37) I went to the equality Utah ally gala last weekend

(10:38) You should check out equality Utah on Instagram for pictures and video

#Podcast #Courage #Community #LGBTQAlly #SelfDiscovery #KetamineTherapy #MentalHealth #PersonalGrowth #RideTheWaveMedia

Keywords: Courage, Community, LGBTQ Ally, Self-Discovery, Ketamine Therapy, Mental Health, Personal Growth, Amanda McCombs, Equality Utah, Mrs. Daybreak, Ride The Wave Media, Podcast Episode

Ride the Wave Media: https://ridethewavemedia.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/notsogenius

In this deeply personal episode, Amanda McCombs opens up about her journey through grief, self-care, and healing. After a brief hiatus, Amanda returns to share the heavy toll her grief has taken on her physical and mental health, and how she’s been navigating these challenges. From attending the Mrs. America pageant to finding solace in therapy and reconnecting with cherished memories of her late mother, Amanda offers a raw and heartfelt look into her life.

Join Amanda as she delves into the complexities of mourning, the struggle to engage in activities once shared with her mother, and the bittersweet process of revisiting places filled with memories. She also discusses her recent diagnosis of non-alcoholic liver disease, the impact of chronic medical issues, and the importance of self-care amidst life's chaos.

Chapters:

(00:00) Introduction and self-care reflections

(05:12) Grief and its physical toll

(10:45) Attending the Mrs. America pageant

(15:30) Coping with the anniversary of her mother's death

(20:15) Therapy and confronting memories

(25:45) Revisiting her mother's property

(30:20) Chronic medical issues and self-care

(35:10) Reflections on personal growth and healing

#Podcast #GriefJourney #SelfCare #Healing #Therapy #MentalHealth #ChronicIllness #PersonalGrowth #RideTheWaveMedia

Keywords: Grief, Self-Care, Healing, Therapy, Mental Health, Chronic Illness, Personal Growth, Amanda McCombs, Ride The Wave Media, Podcast Episode

Ride the Wave Media: https://ridethewavemedia.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/notsogenius

In this heartfelt episode, Amanda McCombs reunites with her longtime friend Heather to reminisce about their creative adventures and personal growth over the past two decades. From their early days in a model collaborative to navigating life changes, Amanda and Heather share candid reflections on their experiences, including their involvement in empowering women through creative projects, overcoming personal traumas, and the importance of mental health. They discuss the challenges of growing up in a high-control religion, the significance of therapy, and the journey to self-acceptance and rebranding in their 30s. Join Amanda and Heather as they offer an honest and inspiring look into their lives and the power of female friendship.

Chapters:

(00:00) Amanda and Heather reconnect after 20 years

(09:12) Adventures in the model collaborative and creative projects

(15:52) Navigating personal traumas and the impact of high-control religion

(23:32) The importance of mental health and therapy

(30:45) Discovering and embracing spirituality and astrology

(40:20) Rebranding in their 30s and career changes

(50:15) Empowering women and the significance of sisterhood

(01:00:00) Reflections on motherhood and personal growth

(01:10:00) The power of saying "no" and setting boundaries

#Podcast #Empowerment #MentalHealth #SpiritualJourney #FemaleFriendship #SelfDiscovery #CreativeProjects #HighControlReligion #Therapy #PersonalGrowth #RideTheWaveMedia

Keywords: Female Empowerment, Mental Health, Personal Growth, Creative Projects, High-Control Religion, Therapy, Self-Discovery, Spiritual Journey, Astrology, Rebranding, Motherhood, Setting Boundaries, Amanda McCombs, Heather, Ride The Wave Media, Podcast Episode

Ride the Wave Media: https://ridethewavemedia.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/notsogenius

In this deeply personal episode, Amanda McCombs opens up about her experiences growing up in the LDS church and the challenges she faced that led to her departure. Amanda shares her heartfelt story, touching on sensitive topics such as religious abuse, the struggle with faith, and the impact of societal expectations on women. She recounts her journey from being a devoted member to questioning the teachings and ultimately finding her own path. With candid reflections on her past relationships, the pressures of conformity, and her ongoing healing process, Amanda offers a raw and honest look into her life. Join Amanda as she navigates these complex emotions and strives for understanding and peace.

(00:00) Amanda mcCombs: Religious abuse is real, and there's sensitive topics

(09:12) He actually broke up with me the day before Valentine's day

(15:52) I stopped going to church when I was 17 because of sexual abuse

(23:32) Um, I am thankful for all the experiences I've had in my life

#Podcast #PersonalJourney #ReligiousAbuse #Healing #Faith #LDS #WomenEmpowerment #PTSD #LifeReflections #RideTheWaveMedia

Keywords: LDS Church, Religious Abuse, Personal Journey, Faith Struggles, Women's Roles, Relationship PTSD, Healing Process, Personal Reflections, Leaving LDS Church, Amanda McCombs, Ride The Wave Media, Podcast Episode

In this introspective episode, Amanda McCombs explores the transition from being a full-time teacher to focusing on her own children and personal growth. She shares heartfelt reflections on the challenges and rewards of this new phase, the importance of creating a supportive community both at home and in the classroom, and the struggle to find balance in life. Amanda also touches on her personal journey, including past traumas and the impact of leaving the LDS church. Join Amanda for an honest and humorous look into her life as she navigates these changes and strives for a healthier, more fulfilling future.

Chapters:

(00:00) This is the first year that I haven't had to get a classroom ready

(07:43) Finding that work life balance when you're a teacher is difficult

(16:24) When I came forward about my rape, I lost a lot of friends

(23:20) Always remember to take care of yourself. It's really important

Ride the Wave Media
https://ridethewavemedia.com

Instagram
https://instagram.com/notsogenius

Fresh King Benjamin's Podcast
https://ridethewavemedia.com/fresh-king-benjamin

#Podcast #PersonalGrowth #CommunityBuilding #Motherhood #Community

Keywords: Teaching Transition, Motherhood Journey, Personal Growth, Classroom Memories, Life Balance, Community Building, Anxiety In Children, Creative Repurposing, Self-Care Tips, Former Lds Story, Education Challenges, Teacher Stress, School Year Preparation, Student Behavior, Supportive Community, Personal Reflections, Overcoming Trauma, Leaving Lds Church, Podcast Episode, Ride The Wave Media

In this episode, Amanda McCombs shares her personal journey of taking a sabbatical from teaching to focus on self-care and healing. Amanda discusses quitting her job, the challenges of dealing with health issues, and the importance of meeting one's own needs. She reflects on the concept of sabbaticals, her experiences at a work conference, and the various steps she's taking to improve her well-being, including therapy and fostering kittens. Amanda also hints at an upcoming podcast series featuring stories of incredible women survivors. Tune in for an honest and heartfelt discussion on self-care and life changes.

#SelfCare #MentalHealth #TeacherLife #Podcasting #LifeJourney #NewEpisode #Sabbatical #HealingJourney

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:39 Life Changes and Career Break

02:32 Understanding Sabbatical

04:47 Self-Care and Personal Well-being

12:32 New Beginnings and Future Plans

13:00 Conclusion and Social Media

In this episode of 'Inner Workings Of The Not So Genius Mind,' host Amanda McCombs shares her struggles and experiences with trauma, particularly her ordeal with a stalker during her teenage years. She discusses the subsequent health challenges, including her diagnosis of shingles and how it affected her. Amanda also reflects on the mental and emotional journey she has been through, emphasizing the importance of safety, therapy, and healing. She invites listeners to share their own stories, especially experiences related to pregnancy during COVID-19, as she plans to discuss more personal and communal stories in future episodes.

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Update

01:05 Personal Health Struggles

03:29 Stalker Story: A Dark Past

05:51 Creepy Encounters and Safety Measures

11:07 Healing and Moving Forward

16:02 Conclusion and Future Plans

#Podcast #Healing #Resilience #MentalHealth #Therapy #SelfCare #Inspiration #NotSoGenius #Storytelling #PodcastLife

In this heartfelt episode, Amanda McCombs, host of the 'Not So Genius' podcast, shares her profound journey of overcoming shingles, a debilitating condition that dramatically impacted her life. Amanda recounts her struggles with misdiagnosis, severe pain, and the intense isolation that followed. Despite the setbacks, she found resilience and support through her family and community. Her story illustrates the transformation she underwent, from being incapacitated to participating confidently in a beauty pageant. Amanda's narrative is a powerful testament to human strength and the embrace of life's small joys.

00:00 Welcome to the Not So Genius Mind

00:41 Amanda's Personal Journey

01:33 The Shingles Diagnosis

02:36 Living with Shingles

06:47 Finding Joy Amidst Pain

08:50 Reflections and Resilience

12:13 The Beauty Pageant Transformation

13:41 Conclusion and Next Steps

#NewPodcast #RealTalk #PersonalJourney #Resilience #Healing #Empowerment #PodcastEpisode #LifeStories #OvercomingChallenges #TuneInNow

Prepare to be inspired, amused, and comforted as we candidly discuss our personal journeys, the highs, the lows, and the comedy that life often presents. No topic is off limits in "Inner Workings of the Not So Genius Mind". Each episode, we'll dive into personal stories, professional insights, and the many facets of mental health and self care, all wrapped up with a sense of humor. Our goal is to bring light to the shadows, laughter to the tears, and a sense of community to all those who tune in.

  "Inner Workings of the Not So Genius Mind" is a warm and inviting podcast brought to you by Amanda McCombs, a resilient trauma survivor, nurturing teacher, and the beloved Mrs. Daybreak. Amanda shares her personal journeys with a sprinkle of humor and thoughtful insights, offering listeners a fresh and unique perspective on healing and rediscovering life.