Talk with Tara | Divorce, Dating & Women’s Midlife Reinvention

In this powerful episode of Talk with Tara, I sit down with Erin Hwasta, Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist (LMFT) with over 15 years of experience helping individuals and families heal from trauma, addiction, and toxic relationship patterns.
We dive deep into the unseen emotional wounds that shape our relationships—especially when one or both partners carry unresolved trauma. Erin explains the science of EMDR therapy, how addiction and dissociation show up in marriage, what trauma bonding really means, and if you can know when to stay, shift—or leave.
Whether you’ve experienced trauma, love someone who has, or feel stuck in a painful relational loop, this episode offers real insight, deep compassion, and hopeful paths forward.
“Trauma doesn’t have to define you—but it does need your attention.” – Erin Hwasta
Disclaimer: This episode is for educational purposes only and does not constitute mental health advice. Please consult a qualified professional for support.
 
Connect with Erin Hwasta:
🌐 www.erinhwasta.com📧 Erin@erinhwasta.comLicensed in California, Florida, and Washington.
💬 Connect with Tara:
📸 Instagram: @talkwithtarapodcast📧 Email: talkwithtara@gmail.com

Skeptical about energy healing? You’re not alone. But what if there is more to healing than just talk therapy and prescriptions? In this mystic episode of Talk with Tara, I sit down with renowned medical intuitive and spiritual healer Dee Merz, whose 40+ years of experience (and studies by the Institute of Noetic Sciences) are challenging conventional wisdom—and changing lives. This is for people that want to learn how to get their enrgy back and gift energy back to others. Dee gives us a step by step lesson. 
We dive into:
What energy healing actually is (hint: it’s not just woo)
How to protect your energy and reclaim it from others
The link between past trauma, physical illness, and energy blocks
How guided imagery and white light meditation can shift your mind, body, and spirit
Why some people can't let go of pain—and how to help them heal
If you’ve ever felt drained by someone else’s energy, stuck in old emotional loops, or just curious about the science behind spiritual healing, this episode might be the perspective shift you didn’t know you needed.
Plus, Dee shares a free gift of 5 healing meditations on her website: www.DMerzEnergy.com

In this episode of Talk with Tara, we dive into the fascinating connection between the nervous system and relationships with Michelle Gillette, a functional medicine-certified health coach specializing in nervous system regulation, attachment science, and holistic well-being.
Have you ever wondered why you feel anxious during conflict or why you shut down when things get tough? Michelle helps us understand the deep-seated patterns that shape our relationships—many of which were formed in childhood. We explore attachment styles, the impact of digital dating, and how the pandemic has affected our nervous systems and connection patterns.
Michelle also shares practical tools for regulating your nervous system, breaking unhealthy relationship patterns, and creating more secure, thriving relationships—including breathing techniques, journaling, and even the role of psychedelics in nervous system healing.
This conversation is packed with eye-opening insights and actionable takeaways for anyone looking to improve their relationships, whether you're dating, in a long-term partnership, or simply seeking a deeper understanding of yourself.
Michelle recommends Sensate for vagus nerve stimulation, sleep, and meditation: getsensate.com/michelle (Code: MICHELLE)
Connect with Michelle Gillette:
LinkedIn: Michelle Gillette, FMCHCInstagram: @michellegillette_Website: www.michellegillettecoaching.com
Stay Connected with Talk with Tara:
Instagram & Facebook: @talkwithtarapodcastEmail: talkwithtarapodcast@gmail.com
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In this episode of Talk with Tara, I sit down with Lori Collier, the founder of Zinnia—a groundbreaking platform dedicated to helping women (and men!) navigate the emotional and legal complexities of divorce. We dive into the tough questions: How do you know when it’s time to leave? What’s the difference between mediation and court? How can you protect your financial future? Lori shares expert advice on stopping the cycle of rumination, creating a vision for your post-divorce life, and transitioning from merely surviving to truly thriving. Plus, we explore the impact of co-parenting, modern approaches to separation, and how to reclaim your independence. Whether you're contemplating a split, in the thick of it, or rebuilding your life after divorce, this episode is packed with wisdom, strategies, and support. Hit play and let’s dive in!
To find out more about the Zinnia Project check out the website: https://www.zinniaproject.com
 
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In this episode of Talk with Tara, I sit down with the  Kay LaFleur-Anders—visionary entrepreneur, creative wellness coach, and founder of Chestnut Publishing House and Coffee Milk Media. We dive into the power of storytelling, the emotional weight of creativity, and how journaling can be a game-changer for mental well-being. Kay shares insights on creative blocks, self-care, and the importance of taking breaks—both in business and in life. Plus, we discuss Show Her the Money, an eye-opening documentary on women and venture capital. Whether you're an aspiring writer, an entrepreneur, or just looking for inspiration, this episode is packed with wisdom you won’t want to miss! Hit play and let’s dive in.
 
You can find K LaFleur-Anders on LinkedIn or on her website at https://www.coffeemilkmedia.com/ or on Substack at @resentwithk Follow K on Instagram @klafleuranders
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I love hearing from you!

In this episode of Talk with Tara, I sit down with relationship coach, author, and spiritual teacher Heather Heselton to explore the power of self-love, setting boundaries, and breaking free from toxic patterns. We talk about what it really means to love yourself, how to recognize when you’re abandoning your own needs, and why so many women struggle with saying no.
Heather shares her wisdom on navigating relationships with confidence, setting boundaries without guilt, and learning how to pause before reacting to triggers. We also get into the idea of dating yourself—what that actually looks like and why it’s the foundation for attracting the right people into your life.
If you’ve ever felt stuck in a relationship, found yourself people-pleasing, or struggled to put yourself first, this conversation is for you. Plus, we talk about Heather’s upcoming women’s retreat in Spain, where she’s helping women step into their power and redefine their lives.
Listen in and take the first step toward self-love, confidence, and stronger boundaries. And don’t forget to follow and share if this episode resonates with you!
You can reach Heather Heselton here: https://heatherheselton.com/
Please subscribe to Talk with Tara and follow me on Instagram @talkwithtarapodcast.com

In this raw and transformative episode of Talk with Tara, I sit down with Walking Crow—a shamanic healer, life coach, and medicine man whose journey from pain to empowerment deeply inspires me. I share in the conversation as Walking Crow opens up about overcoming childhood trauma, addiction, and struggles with self-worth through powerful practices like energy healing, sacred drum medicine, and sage smudging. He takes me through his intimate experiences with spirit animals, the profound wisdom of the Serenity Prayer, and the art of creating sacred circles that foster healing and self-discovery. If you’re looking for inspiration, practical insights, or a fresh perspective on embracing your inner strength, join me as we explore a heartfelt roadmap for transforming fear into courage and reclaiming your power.
 
To Contact Walking Crow: 
Transformational Shamanic Healing Practitioner
Transformational Sacred Drum Medicine, Men in Self-Care (MISC)
walkingcrow@sacreddrummedicine.com
http://sacreddrummedicine.com
Instgram: @walkingcrow_sacreddrummedicine
 
Please follow Talk with Tara and comment. I love hearing from you! 
Instagram: @talkwithtarapodcast
 

What if love wasn’t just about chemistry but about strategy, science, and self-awareness? In this episode of Talk with Tara, I sit down with Joy Nordenstrom, founder of Joy of Romance and Intelligent Love. With 20 years of experience as a certified matchmaker and relationship mentor, Joy shares her journey of helping singles find love and couples build lasting connections using a powerful mix of science, intuition, and practical wisdom. 
In this episode, we dive into Joy’s unique methodology, including how to understand your relationship blueprint and the life cycle of relationships. We explore why choosing partners wisely is so important, how early relationship dynamics shape long-term success, and the fascinating science behind love and compatibility.
Whether you're single, dating, or looking to deepen your current relationship, this episode is packed with insights that will transform your love life.
To learn more about Joy's Nordenstrom's work:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joynordenstrom
Host of Intelligent Love: https://bit.ly/intelligentlovechannel
To learn more, visit www.joyofromance.com
Email Joy at joy@joyofromance.com.
IG: https://www.instagram.com/joyofromance
FB: https://www.facebook.com/joynordenstrom
FB Page: https://www.facebook.com/joyofromance
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JoyofRomance
 
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Navigating today’s dating world can feel like a full-time job—so why not get expert advice? In this episode of Talk with Tara, I sit down with Krissy Givas, a pro matchmaker who blends traditional matchmaking with modern dating strategies to help exceptional singles find lasting love.
We’re diving into:
The biggest mistakes women make that turn men off
Confidence vs. looks—what REALLY attracts men 
Why feminine energy is a game-changer
When to work with a matchmaker vs. using dating apps 
Ready to date smarter, not harder? Whether you're newly single, fed up with ghosting, or curious about matchmaking, this episode is a must-listen!
Tag a friend who needs this dating wisdom!
Reach out to Krissy @
https://www.kristinegivas.com/
or 
Kristine@kelleher-international.com
 
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I love feedback, send me a message or share your story: talkwithtarapodcast@gmail.com

In this episode of Talk with Tara, I sit down with Leasa Neaves, a certified executive coach and founder of LN Leadership Partners and Elevate for Women. With 25 years in Fortune 50 corporate leadership, Leasa knows what it takes to build confidence, set boundaries, and lead with an abundance mindset—both in business and life.
We dive into:✨ Saying no without guilt—how boundaries create space for real opportunities.✨ Overcoming imposter syndrome and stepping into your power.✨ Networking secrets that open doors in your career.✨ The abundance mindset—why lifting other women up creates more success for everyone.✨ "Face it till you ace it"—Leasa’s game-changing advice for tackling fear and self-doubt.
Leasa's mission is simple: help women rise together. Whether you're navigating a career pivot, struggling with confidence, or looking to build your network, this conversation is packed with insights to get you unstuck.
Connect with Leasa:📧 leasaneaves4444@gmail.com🔗 linkedin.com/in/leasaneaves
🎧 Listen now—because confidence is built one bold step at a time!