The MIND Performance Pod with Lindsey Paoli

The Truth About Co-Parenting: Emotional Regulation, Boundaries & Raising Secure Kids with Jay Skibbens

Co-parenting can be one of the most emotionally challenging experiences a parent faces. And if we’re serious about mental performance, nervous system regulation, and raising secure kids, we can’t ignore it.
In this episode, I’m joined by co-parenting coach Jay Skibbins, who helps parents navigate the emotional realities of raising children across two households. Jay has been co-parenting for over 11 years and works with parents to help them regulate emotions, communicate clearly, and create peace in their homes, regardless of what their co-parent does.
We talk about the mindset shifts that can transform co-parenting, why trying to control your co-parent rarely works, and how emotional regulation can completely change your parenting experience.
This conversation goes far beyond co-parenting, it’s about learning how to show up as a grounded, confident parent no matter the circumstances.
In This Episode We Discuss:
Why focusing on your co-parent keeps you stuck
The role emotional regulation plays in parenting
How boundaries create safety for kids
The “inverted V” parenting model for raising independent children
Why healing yourself can shift the entire family dynamic
Connect with Jay Skibbins
Jay works with parents through group programs and coaching designed to help them navigate co-parenting challenges with emotional clarity and confidence.
His newest project, Grounded Co-Parent University, is designed to help parents develop emotional regulation, build healthier parenting dynamics, and create stability for themselves and their children. Check it out here: https://www.skool.com/groundedcoparentuniversity/about
Enjoyed this episode? You’ll love this one too:
Check out “The Hidden Link Between Your Gut, Stress, and Women’s Health,” where I break down how chronic stress and nervous system dysregulation impact energy, mood, hormones, and overall wellbeing, and why so many high-performing women live in survival mode without realizing it.
Subscribe to The Mind Performance Podcast
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Because better mental performance doesn’t just improve your life, it changes the lives of the people around you.

What Lawyers Know About Negotiation That Most Entrepreneurs Miss: Lessons from Attorney and Mediator Natalie Lehman

When I first met Natalie Lehman, she was deep in her career as a litigation attorney. Over the last year, I watched her begin to explore something different—something that would eventually become Blackacre Mediation, her own business helping people resolve complex property disputes outside the courtroom.
In this episode, Natalie and I talk about what it really looks like to step away from a secure legal career and build something on your own terms. With over 20 years of experience in property and real estate law, Natalie now uses mediation to help individuals, businesses, and attorneys resolve disputes more efficiently—often avoiding years of costly litigation.
We also talk about the behind-the-scenes journey of entrepreneurship: building the right network, recognizing the right season of life to start something new, and learning how to say no so you can stay aligned with your bigger vision.
Natalie shares what mediation actually looks like in practice, the types of real estate disputes she helps resolve, and the lessons she learned while launching her business less than a year ago.
If you’ve ever thought about starting something of your own—or wondered how legal disputes can be resolved without spending years in court—you’ll want to hear this conversation.
In This Episode We Talk About:
Natalie’s transition from litigation attorney to mediator
What property and real estate mediation actually involves
Why some disputes are better resolved outside the courtroom
How networking played a key role in building her business
Recognizing the right season to start something new
Setting boundaries and saying no as a new entrepreneur
Feeling foggy, anxious, bloated, or burnt out? You’re not broken — your gut, brain, and nervous system may just need a reset.
Learn more & join here: Gut Brain Reset
 
Connect with Natalie Lehman
Website: https://www.blackacremediation.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blackacremediation
Natalie Lehman is the founder of Blackacre Mediation, where she helps individuals, businesses, and attorneys resolve property and real estate disputes through mediation.
 
Similar Episode to Listen To:
If you enjoyed this conversation about networking and building a business through relationships, check out:
Proximity Is Opportunity: The Relationship Strategy Behind Long-Term Business Success with Ruth Furman.

Breast Cancer, Intuition & Feminine Power: An Unpredictable Conversation on Matriarchy

This conversation felt timely in a way I can’t fully explain.
Lisa Malia and I reconnected after she commented on one of my “Becoming a Housewife” posts, about how I was viewing feminism wrong. And suddenly, what started as a cheeky exploration turned into something much deeper. We talked about feminine energy, matriarchy vs. patriarchy, trust in relationships, and what it actually looks like to redesign feminism instead of abandoning it.
We also went somewhere more personal than I expected, into her breast cancer journey, dense breast tissue, medical advocacy, and what it really means to trust your body when the system doesn’t fully trust you back.
Here’s what we unpacked:
The difference between masculine energy and patriarchal systems (they are not the same)
What matriarchal leadership actually looks like
Why this cultural moment feels like a shift (hello, firehorse energy)
How stress, suppression, and over-hustling can show up in women’s bodies
The under-addressed experience of dense breast tissue
Advocating for your health and choosing what gives you peace
Trust inside relationships (and how my resistance to certain “roles” might actually be about broken trust)
Community as medicine, especially in person, not just online
What it means to live in your archetype (yes, I’m apparently still very much a midwife)
This is not a surface-level conversation. It’s layered. It’s vulnerable. It’s reflective. And it’s VERY timely in today’s volatile times. 
If you’re a high achieving woman navigating:
A shift in identity
Questions about feminine vs. masculine roles
Health advocacy
Or just a quiet nudge that something in you is changing
This episode will meet you there.

The Hidden Link Between Your Gut, Stress, and Women’s Health

In this episode of the Mind Performance Podcast, I talk about nervous system regulation, chronic stress, and the hidden signs of nervous system dysregulation in ambitious women. We explore how stress affects your energy, gut health, hormones, and overall wellness — and why so many high-performing women live in constant survival mode without realizing it.
I break down six unexpected signs your nervous system is overwhelmed, including burnout, inflammation, energy crashes, irritability, and feeling tired but unable to rest. I also explain the gut-brain connection, the role of cortisol and chronic inflammation, and why mental health and physical health must be addressed together.
I share my personal journey with PCOS, hypothyroidism, and chronic inflammation that led me to develop the Gut-Brain Reset, a simple framework focused on nervous system regulation, gut health, and sustainable lifestyle habits to support women’s health and long-term performance.
If you’re struggling with burnout, chronic stress, hormone imbalance, low energy, or emotional overwhelm, this episode will help you understand what’s happening in your body and how to start restoring balance.
What You’ll Learn
Signs of nervous system dysregulation in women
How chronic stress affects energy, mood, and hormones
Why you feel tired but wired or constantly overwhelmed
The gut-brain connection and inflammation explained
Survival mode, burnout, and stress response patterns
How gut health impacts mental health and performance
My experience with PCOS, inflammation, and recovery
Simple habits to support nervous system regulation
What the Gut-Brain Reset is and how it works
At the end of the day, this conversation isn’t about fixing yourself — it’s about understanding yourself. So many of us have learned to function in constant stress, exhaustion, and survival mode that we mistake it for normal. But your body is always communicating with you, asking for balance, rest, and care.
My hope for you is that this episode encourages you to slow down, listen more closely to what your body is telling you, and recognize that regulation, ease, and sustainable energy are actually possible. Small, intentional shifts can create powerful change — and you deserve to feel well, supported, and at peace in both your mind and body.
intentional, more aware, and more compassionate with ourselves as we learn what our bodies need.

Year of the Fire Horse: 5 Powerful Ways to Harness 2026 Energy Without Burning Out

The lunar new year is here, and we’re officially stepping into the Year of the Fire Horse, which means bold energy, big movement, massive growth, and yes… major burnout potential if you don’t manage it correctly. 
In this episode, I’m breaking down what this energy actually means, how it differs from the traditional January reset, and how I’m personally approaching 2026 so I can expand without exhausting myself. 
I’m sharing the psychology behind Fire Horse energy, what it means for your decisions, relationships, and identity shifts, and the five actionable strategies to stay focused, aligned, and intentional all year. 
If you’re ready for growth, momentum, and clarity, but want to protect your nervous system while doing it, this episode is for you.
 
What I Talk About In This Episode
Why Chinese New Year follows the lunar calendar (and why that matters for your energy)
The shift from last year’s shedding and growth cycle into fast-moving Fire energy
The Fire element: passion, visibility, leadership — and the shadow side of burnout
Why this year brings more opportunity, faster decisions, and big identity shifts
How the mind fundamentals help you channel expansion without overwhelm
 
The Big Message
This isn’t a year to shrink. It’s a year to expand, take risks, and step into a bigger version of yourself. But growth only works when your energy has direction, structure, and intentional recovery. 
 
💬 Let’s Connect
Tell me your one big focus for the year, the lens you’re using to make your decisions.
DM me on Instagram → @themindperformancepod
 
Coming Next…
The official launch of The Gut Brain Reset, plus early listener bonuses and exclusive access.
Feeling foggy, anxious, bloated, or burnt out? You’re not broken — your gut, brain, and nervous system may just need a reset.
Learn more & join here: Gut Brain Reset

Proximity Is Opportunity: The Relationship Strategy Behind Long-Term Business Success with Ruth Furman

Ruth is the owner of Image Words Communications, a full-service marketing communications firm specializing in public relations. For nearly 25 years, she has been helping business owners, often in healthcare and mental health, "amplify their awesomeness" and strategically make noise nationwide. She’s based in Las Vegas, but her impact reaches coast to coast.
In this conversation, we talk about what PR actually looks like today, why it’s still incredibly relevant for small businesses, and how relationships remain at the center of sustainable growth. Ruth shares her path from being a journalism major to working in magazines, corporate PR, and eventually building her own firm through what she describes as a very human, non-linear journey.
We also dive into her mastery of relationship-building and networking. Not because it comes naturally, but because she intentionally practices it. Ruth opens up about seeing herself as awkward and insecure, despite how confident she appears, and why putting yourself in rooms, following up, and being radically helpful creates long-term opportunity.
A big theme of this episode is balance. Ruth shares about caring for her mom through advanced lung cancer, navigating grief, and learning how to run her business differently during seasons that require more personal space. We talk about over-functioning, equating busyness with relevance, and what it looks like to give yourself permission to slow down and work at a new pace.
We also cover:
What public relations means in today’s digital-first world
Why earned media builds credibility in ways social media alone cannot
How PR fits into an overall marketing ecosystem
The power of proximity, collaboration, and follow-up
Using social media strategically at any age
ADHD as both a challenge and a superpower
Why “just because you can doesn’t mean you should”
Ruth is full of wisdom, humor, and what I lovingly call “Ruthie-isms,” like “proximity is opportunity,” “leftovers get stale,” and “I’m coloring in a new coloring book in this phase of life.” This episode is honest, grounding, and packed with perspective for anyone building a business and a life at the same time.
If you’ve ever wondered whether PR is worth it, how real visibility is created, or how to grow without burning out, you’re going to love this conversation.
Connect with Ruth
Website: https://www.ruthfurman.comInstagram: @ruthiefurmanLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruthfurman
 
Feeling foggy, anxious, bloated, or burnt out? You’re not broken — your gut, brain, and nervous system may just need a reset.
The Gut–Brain Reset is a 2-week, science-backed protocol to help you feel clear, calm, and regulated again.
Learn more & join here:  Gut Brain Reset

Human Design: Understand the Blueprint Behind Your Energy, Decisions, and Burnout with guest expert Ilona Pamplona

In this episode of The Mind Performance Pod, I sit down with Ilona Pamplona—twice-published author, coach, and founder of Your Aura at Work—for a grounded, practical conversation on Human Design and how it can be used as a real-world tool for self-trust, energy management, and aligned decision-making.
What struck me most about Ilona’s work is how she bridges ancient systems (like astrology, the I Ching, chakras, and Kabbalah) with modern coaching and strategy. This isn’t about labels or personality boxes—it’s about understanding your core energetic operating system so you can stop forcing yourself into ways of working that were never meant for you.
We explore what Human Design actually is, how it differs from other personality systems, and why it can feel so validating when you finally see yourself reflected in your chart. Ilona also breaks down the four main aura types, what they need to thrive, and how misalignment often shows up as burnout, frustration, bitterness, or anger.
This conversation is especially for you if you’ve ever thought, “Why does this feel so hard for me when it seems easy for everyone else?” or “Am I broken… or just wired differently?” Spoiler: you’re not broken.
What We Cover in This Episode
What Human Design is and where it comes from
Why Human Design focuses on how you’re designed to work (not what job you should have)
The four aura types (Generators, Projectors, Manifestors, Reflectors) and their core strategies
How Human Design supports self-trust and intuitive decision-making
The connection between energy misalignment, burnout, and emotional exhaustion
Using your chart as a tool for business clarity, boundaries, and sustainable growth
Why you don’t “suck at business”—you may just be using your energy incorrectly
About Ilona PamplonaIlona Pamplona is a twice-published author, coach, and strategist helping leaders align who they are with how they work. As the founder of Your Aura at Work, she uses Human Design as a practical framework to translate self-awareness into clear, strategic action. Ilona specializes in working with entrepreneurs, professionals, and community leaders who want emotionally intelligent, aligned success rooted in clarity and self-trust.
Free Resources & Special OfferIlona has generously extended 15% off a 1:1 Human Design session for listeners of The Mind Performance Pod. These sessions are perfect if you want personalized insight into your chart, your decision-making style, and how to better use your energy in life or business.
Free Human Design Calculator: https://yourauraatwork.com
Book: Human Design Made Easy
Instagram: @yourauraatwork
Website: https://yourauraatwork.com
Reflective QuestionWhat if the next level of your success isn’t about becoming someone new—but about remembering who you already are and learning how you’re designed to move through the world?
 
Feeling foggy, anxious, bloated, or burnt out? You’re not broken — your gut, brain, and nervous system may just need a reset.
The Gut–Brain Reset is a 2-week, science-backed protocol to help you feel clear, calm, and regulated again.
Learn more & join here:  Gut Brain Reset - https://lindseypaoli.mykajabi.com/the-gut-brain-reset
 
Enjoyed this conversation? Here’s another episode you’ll love:Bridging Science & Spirituality: How Energetics Shape Your Health, Mind, and Business with Dr. Shalane Carter - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bridging-science-spirituality-how-energetics-shape/id1854820156?i=1000741523425

Building a Profitable Business That Honors Family & Health with Stay Fit Mom Founders, Krista Pool & Tracy Gifford

This episode is extra special because it’s my very first double-guest feature, and I couldn’t have picked two better women to kick that off with.
I’m sitting down with Krista Pool and Tracy Gifford, the co-founders of Stay Fit Mom — a brand that has quietly grown into a powerhouse by helping women simplify nutrition, build sustainable habits, and stay consistent through every season of life.
What makes this conversation so meaningful to me is that I’ve watched Krista’s journey from afar for years, long before Stay Fit Mom became what it is today. Seeing how she and Tracy have built something rooted in values, community, and long-term consistency is incredibly inspiring.
In this episode, we talk about what it actually looks like to grow a business organically, how they’ve navigated visibility, social media, motherhood, partnerships, and why they believe community and accountability matter more than ever in today’s “information everywhere” world.
If you’re a busy mom, entrepreneur, or high-achieving woman who feels stretched thin and wants a more realistic approach to health and consistency, this conversation is for you.
In this episode, we cover:
How Stay Fit Mom started as a simple blog and evolved into a macro-nutrition coaching business
Why sustainable habits always beat extremes
What it’s really like to build a business with your best friend
Getting comfortable on camera (even when you don’t feel ready)
The power of repetition in content, marketing, and habit-building
Why community and accountability drive real change
Balancing motherhood, marriage, and entrepreneurship
How faith, values, and small daily actions create long-term success
Their newest cookbooks and why high-protein, family-style meals matter
Krista and Tracy are living proof that success doesn’t come from one big moment — it comes from showing up, adjusting, and staying committed even when things feel slow or messy.
This episode is a reminder that you don’t have to do everything perfectly. You just have to keep going.
About Today’s Guests
Stay Fit Mom founders Krista Pool and Tracy Gifford are macro-nutrition coaches, recipe creators, and moms on a mission to help women build sustainable health habits. Through their coaching programs, viral meal-prep recipes, and The Stay Fit Mom Podcast, they teach women how to fuel their bodies, simplify nutrition, and stay consistent through every season of life — all without extremes.
Connect with Krista & Tracy
Website: stayfitmom.com
Instagram: @stayfitmomkrista  |  @stayfitmomtracy
Offers Mentioned: 
Gut Brain Reset 
Get 15% off any Stay Fit Mom offer with code LINDSEY

From Fight-or-Flight to Feeling Safe: A Personal Shift I Didn’t Expect

This episode is a personal one, just you and me.
Lately, I’ve been noticing a shift in how I move through the world. Not just in business, but in my body, my marriage, my motherhood, and my sense of safety. And once I noticed it, I couldn’t unsee it.
This conversation isn’t polished or packaged. It’s me breaking the fourth wall and naming what’s changing, and why being “busy” suddenly feels wrong.
In this episode, I talk candidly about:
Moving to Florida and being confronted by an entirely different pace of life
Why nervous system regulation naturally dismantles hustle culture
The moment I realized I no longer want to be busy “for the sake of it”
How motherhood, marriage, and safety intersect with ambition
Letting go of thrill-seeking — in business, relationships, and even roller coasters
Why I’m simplifying my work, scaling down client hours, and choosing ease on purpose
This isn’t a training or a framework — it’s a conversation.
If you’ve been feeling a quiet pull toward less…If success doesn’t look the way it used to…If your body is asking for something different before your mind catches up…
You’re not alone. And you’re not broken.
We’re figuring this out together.

Looking Back Before Looking Ahead: A Year-End Reflection

Before we jump into visioneering next week and planning for the year ahead, I wanted to slow things down and take a moment to look back.
This episode is all about reflection and celebration, acknowledging what worked this year, what supported us, and what we don’t want to rush past just because the calendar is turning.
So often, we move straight into fixing, planning, and optimizing without honoring what actually carried us through the year. In this conversation, I invite you to pause with me and reflect before we move forward.
 
In this episode, I talk about:
Why reflection is just as important as goal-setting
The tendency to skip celebration and move straight into “what’s next”
What this year revealed about my values, priorities, and capacity
How honoring what worked creates a stronger foundation for the future
Why closing the year intentionally matters for your nervous system and mental performance
The importance of gratitude without bypassing the hard parts
Next week, we’ll move into visioneering. But for now, this is your permission slip to pause, reflect, and acknowledge how far you’ve come.