The Art Of Imperfect Adulting
The Art Of Imperfect Adulting

The Art Of Imperfect Adulting

Amy Stone

Overview
Episodes

Details

The Art of Imperfect Adulting is a podcast and streaming YouTube show for anyone who has ever looked at their own face peering back at them from a Zoom screen and thought: how did I get here, and what do I want to do next? This show is for you if life has taken a turn you didn't plan for and you're still working out what it means. Maybe it's a divorce that rewrote the story you thought you were living, or a health struggle including chronic illness, weight changes, or menopause that shifted everything. It could be a rapid unplanned professional shift like getting fired, laid off, or finally admitting that the corporate grind isn't compatible with the life you actually want. Perhaps your insomnia comes from worrying that you chose the wrong degree, didn't get the job, or that the path you were so sure about went somewhere you didn't intend. Or maybe you feel a sense of drowning in a caregiving season that is quietly consuming you like quicksand, whether you're showing up for a parent, a child, a spouse, or a sibling. It could be a sneaky adulting decision that feels like it should be easier, like choosing a school or curriculum for your kids that is keeping you up at night. Perhaps your Google search history is full of questions about how to move to a place that finally feels more like you, or how to stop putting down roots altogether and see what a life in motion actually looks like. If you've ever felt behind, off-script, or quietly wondering if you're the only one who finds this hard, you're not. This show exists to give you proof that change is possible, to be company for your journey, and offer the quiet relief that comes with being connected to like-minded people. We all know that real life doesn't come with an instruction manual. We also know that our real lives don't match the highlight reels we see on the red carpet or in our social media feeds. In a world where billions of bits of manufactured and altered information deluge us every day, the raw and honest stories of, “how did she do that?” are a welcome breath of fresh air. Each episode features honest conversations with guests sharing the choices and changes that shaped who they became, from unconventional career moves and unexpected reinventions to rebuilding after loss and choosing happiness on their own terms. These are not pitch decks, academic hypotheticals, or celebrity biopics. These are real accounts from real people who've been in the middle of it and stopped to share what they wish somebody had told them when they needed it most. What listeners come away with isn't a checklist, a hack or even a strategy. It's something harder to manufacture: a feeling that you’re not alone, a little more confidence in your own choices, and the quiet sense of belonging that comes from hearing someone else say out loud what you've been thinking. Your host is Amy Stone, a Gen X woman who knows what it means to be overlooked, underestimated, surprised by the impact of both small decisions and sudden life shifts, and expected to just figure it out. It turns out that might be exactly the right training for hosting a show about choices and change. She brings warmth, zero pretense, and a talent for drawing out the quiet turning points that rarely make it into anyone's highlight reel. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and be sure to join the email community at https://www.imperfectadulting.com

Recent Episodes

Facing Chronic Illness from Birth Through Adulthood with Carly Alyssa Thorne
MAY 12, 2026
Facing Chronic Illness from Birth Through Adulthood with Carly Alyssa Thorne
If you love the show and you'd like to support it directly you can tip the host here https://imperfect-adulting.captivate.fm/supportIn this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Carly Alyssa Thorne about navigating life with congenital rubella syndrome. Based in LA, California, Carly Alyssa Thorne shares her journey of balancing medical needs with pursuing a fulfilling career, relationships, and mindset work. This episode uncovers the challenges of living with visible and invisible disabilities, the evolution of self-acceptance, and the power of choosing authenticity and self-advocacy despite societal misunderstanding.About Carly Alyssa Thorne:Carly Alyssa Thorne is a Director, Producer, Actress, Author, and Speaker with over 30 years in the conscious transformation field. Blending Eastern and Western philosophies, she integrates wellness, spirituality, and storytelling to create media and experiences that inspire growth and healing. A former fitness and wellness center owner and certified Life Coach, Reiki Master, NLP and Hypnotherapy Practitioner, and Interfaith Ordained Minister, Carly brings a holistic lens to every production and collaboration. Her work bridges film, business, and consciousness—empowering others to embody their truth, elevate their message, and lead with purpose.Main Topics Covered:Living with congenital rubella syndrome: understanding a rare, lifelong chronic illness and its evolving impact on daily life, health, and relationships.Invisible vs. visible disabilities: how Carly Alyssa Thorne navigates when and how to reveal her challenges, the emotional journey of self-acceptance, and combating stigma.Coping with ongoing medical needs: the reality of 67+ surgeries, ongoing treatments, restricted activities, and prioritizing quality of life.Mindset, mental health, and resilience: the work of managing depression, post-traumatic stress, and the conscious decision to choose life and positivity.Career and education obstacles: why chronic illness disrupted Carly Alyssa Thorne's academic pursuits, and how she pivoted to certifications and entrepreneurship.Self-advocacy and boundaries: learning to say no, educating others, and managing relationships with those who may not understand chronic illness.Blending Eastern and Western healing: embracing both medication and holistic practices to build a sustainable, flexible support system.Supporting others: Carly Alyssa Thorne's work as a coach, using multisensory and individualized approaches to help people through trauma and life transitions.Quote from the Episode:"I finally just stopped caring what other people stared, what their looks were, what comments were, you know, bullying, all that stuff. And I’m just like, I’m just going to be me—if you either like it or you don’t. If you need to ask me a question instead of staring, feel free to ask me a question. I’d be more than happy to answer." — Carly Alyssa Thorne 10:55Timestamps:00:05 Introduction; where Carly Alyssa Thorne calls home and what she loves about LA00:50 Explaining congenital rubella syndrome and its effects01:27 How the syndrome uniquely affects each person; long-term medical complications03:29 Childhood experiences: isolation, allergies, and constant medical care05:21 Lung and respiratory challenges; living with additional illnesses06:07 Family dynamics and coming to terms with medical reality07:25 Impact on school, sports, friendships, and accommodations09:31 Navigating visible and invisible disabilities; decisions about self-presentation12:56 The mindset shift: from hiding to self-acceptance and advocacy18:40 The toll of chronic illness on mental health and resilience23:47 Coping strategies, mindset work, and building positivity26:38 Day-to-day impact: fatigue, self-care, and adapting professional life29:12 Educational and career roadblocks, inability to sustain traditional roles31:05 Losing freedom (driving), further adaptations across life32:58 Boundaries and relationships: support circles and letting go of judgment35:03 Cultural and family context; independent self-advocacy37:18 Carly Alyssa Thorne’s coaching work: blending modalities to support othersABOUT THE SHOW: The Art of Imperfect Adulting elevates the voices of experience by sharing real stories from real people figuring out adult life. Every episode features honest conversations about life's choices, changes, and challenges—interviews with individuals (not celebrities) who share their personal experiences and insights. Through these authentic stories, listeners find validation, motivation, and inspiration for navigating their own path through modern life. Because there's a big difference between expert advice and shared experience, and hearing another person's lived experience helps us feel less alone in our own situations.CONNECT WITH THE GUEST: Www.carlyathorne.comNever Miss a Moment of Imperfect AdultingWe invite you to join our email community and let us bring the podcast directly to you! As a subscriber, you'll receive notifications about new episodes, exclusive offers from our amazing guests, and easier access to any of the important links mentioned on the show—no more scrambling to write down websites or remember special codes.Why subscribe?Stay up-to-date without checking your podcast appGet guest offers delivered straight to your inboxAccess all important links in one convenient placeCatch the highlights even when you don't have time to listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.comIf you have a story to share and you'd like to be a guest on The Art of Imperfect Adulting, here are the steps for how you can make that happen. Pitch yourself at https://www.imperfectadulting.com/be-a-guestHere are a few resources that Amy uses to make all this great content. These are affiliate links :-)For livestreaming and recording ECamm https://www.ecamm.com/mac/ecammlive/?fp_ref=amy69Podcast hosting and distribution: Captivate FM https://www.captivate.fm/signup?ref=ntczmwi Website hosting with Siteground https://www.siteground.com/?referrer_id=9115590Ai Transcription Tool: Castmagic https://get.castmagic.io/ugrmjjrt8ofjFor Email I recently switched to Beehiiv https://www.beehiiv.com?via=Amy-Stonebefore that I used Kit. Books I like and books written by show guests on Bookshop.org https://bookshop.org/lists/podcast-guest-authors
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44 MIN
Life After Major Upheaval and Divorce with Becky Mollenkamp
MAY 7, 2026
Life After Major Upheaval and Divorce with Becky Mollenkamp
If you love the show and you'd like to support it directly you can tip the host here https://imperfect-adulting.captivate.fm/supportIn this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Becky Mollenkamp about navigating life’s most profound upheavals. Becky is based in St. Louis, Missouri. She shares about losing her brother to addiction, walking away from a “picture-perfect” marriage, and pivoting from print journalism to entrepreneurship. Listeners will discover practical wisdom on grief, resilience, and breaking free from “good girl” conditioning to create a life with more authenticity and meaning.Becky Mollenkamp is a feminist business coach for service-based entrepreneurs who want to build human-first businesses that honor collective flourishing over profit-at-all-costs growth.Main Topics Covered:Navigating the triple upheaval of divorce, the loss of a sibling to addiction, and an unexpected career shift.The emotional complexities of ending a relationship—even one that looks “perfect” from the outside.Surviving and healing through grief after losing a loved one to heroin overdose, and the impact of sibling bereavement.The personal and systemic challenges of mental health, addiction, and the stigma surrounding both in America.How running and movement became a pathway for processing grief and reconnecting with self.Transitioning from journalism and marketing to coaching—empowering other women to break out of “good girl” conditioning.The ongoing journey from needing external gold stars and validation to living a values-driven, self-defined life.Insights on embracing imperfect adulting, intersectional feminism, and helping others rewrite their stories.Quote from the Episode: “I may have made the bed, but I can make a new bed. Like, I don't have to lie in this bed just because I made it. ... I get to make my own rules for my life.” — Becky MollenkampTimestamps: [00:00:05] Amy welcomes Becky; St. Louis roots and sharing love for the Cardinals. [00:01:18] Amy reflects on Becky’s concise podcast pitch and their prior connection. [00:02:24] Becky details the July 4th, 2010 turning point—leading up to and after. [00:03:01] Setting the scene: Becky’s life before upheaval—successful freelance writing, wealth, custom home. [00:05:26] Becky’s journalism journey, newspaper work in California, shift to magazine publishing. [00:07:56] Three life changes: Divorce, family death, career—discussion on agency and choice. [00:08:09] Honest reflection on ending her marriage, infidelity, and personal responsibility. [00:12:01] Brother’s death from heroin overdose—grief, family dynamics, and reevaluating life. [00:13:51] The challenge of grieving when “everything looks good on paper”—stigma, guilt, and validation. [00:15:19] Family history of addiction; choosing tough love and wrestling with guilt. [00:18:47] Systemic issues—mental health, addiction, and the gaps in support. [00:21:00] Stigma surrounding death and overdose; Becky’s commitment to speaking openly. [00:23:17] The isolation and judgment parents face when children struggle or die by addiction. [00:24:08] The overlooked grief of adult siblings and “disenfranchised grief.” [00:25:27] How Becky attempted to outrun grief—and how it always catches up. [00:26:05] Somatic healing: Running, movement, and processing emotions. [00:32:03] Career transition—rediscovering purpose, letting go of “good girl” conditioning. [00:41:09] Building a new life—remarriage, parenting, fulfilling work, and redefining happiness. [00:42:28] Becky's lifelong feminism and evolution toward intersectionality. [00:43:31] Becky's podcast “Messy Liberation,” her upcoming book, and how listeners can connect.ABOUT THE SHOW: The Art of Imperfect Adulting elevates the voices of experience by sharing real stories from real people figuring out adult life. Every episode features honest conversations about life's choices, changes, and challenges—interviews with individuals (not celebrities) who share their personal experiences and insights. Through these authentic stories, listeners find validation, motivation, and inspiration for navigating their own path through modern life. Because there's a big difference between expert advice and shared experience, and hearing another person's lived experience helps us feel less alone in our own situations.CONNECT WITH THE GUEST: https://beckymollenkamp.com/Listen to Becky’s Podcast: Messy Liberation https://feeds.transistor.fm/messyliberationIf you have a story to share and you'd like to be a guest on The Art of Imperfect Adulting, here are the steps for how you can make that happen. Pitch yourself at https://www.imperfectadulting.com/be-a-guestNever Miss a Moment of Imperfect AdultingWe invite you to join our email community and let us bring the podcast directly to you! As a subscriber, you'll receive notifications about new episodes, exclusive offers from our amazing guests, and easier access to any of the important links mentioned on the show—no more scrambling to write down websites or remember special codes.Why subscribe?Stay up-to-date without checking your podcast appGet guest offers delivered straight to your inboxAccess all important links in one convenient placeCatch the highlights even when you don't have time to listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.comHere are a few resources that Amy uses to make all this great content. These are affiliate links :-)For livestreaming and recording ECamm https://www.ecamm.com/mac/ecammlive/?fp_ref=amy69Podcast hosting and distribution: Captivate FM https://www.captivate.fm/signup?ref=ntczmwi Website hosting with Siteground https://www.siteground.com/?referrer_id=9115590Ai Transcription Tool: Castmagic https://get.castmagic.io/ugrmjjrt8ofjFor Email I recently switched to Beehiiv https://www.beehiiv.com?via=Amy-Stonebefore that I used Kit. Books I like and books written by show guests on Bookshop.org https://bookshop.org/lists/podcast-guest-authors
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50 MIN
Polyamory After Purity Culture with Courtney Boyer
MAY 5, 2026
Polyamory After Purity Culture with Courtney Boyer
If you love the show and you'd like to support it directly you can tip the host here https://imperfect-adulting.captivate.fm/supportIn this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Courtney Boyer about deconstructing religious beliefs, unraveling "goodness," and the path from purity culture to embracing polyamory. Courtney lives in Germany. She shares her journey from an Evangelical Christian upbringing in the U.S. through redefining her sense of self, sexuality, and fulfillment in adulthood. This candid conversation explores the intersections of faith, identity, marriage, and the courage to choose honesty.About Courtney Boyer:Courtney Boyer, M.Ed., M.S., is a therapist-turned-relationship coach, writer, and speaker whose work centers on love, desire, and authenticity. She has been featured in The New York Post, Cosmopolitan, The Huffington Post, and BBC Radio Live. Drawing on her background in mental health and sex therapy, she brings a unique blend of professional expertise and lived experience to conversations around relationships and identity. When she isn’t writing or coaching, Courtney can be found chasing joy. This includes traveling, reading, or savoring delicious coffee and deep conversation. She is passionate about helping women break free from shame, reclaim their bodies and voices, and create relationships rooted in honesty and autonomy.Main Topics Covered:Growing up in a high-control Evangelical Christian environment and its impact on beliefs around gender, sex, and "being good."The meaning and process of "deconstructing" faith, especially when beliefs no longer align with lived values.Navigating marriage roles, motherhood, and self-sacrifice—plus the invisible labor women often carry.Overcoming shame, disconnection, and body criticism rooted in purity culture.The shift from therapist and wife “doing everything right” to embracing authentic self-expression and pleasure.Opening the conversation around non-monogamy, polyamory, and sexual fulfillment in adulthood.The complexity of honesty in intimate partnerships—and what it takes to rebuild a relationship on new terms.Parenting with openness about faith, ethics, and personal choice.Quote from the Episode: "I was so resolute in who I was at that point. I was so done with placating to other people." — Courtney BoyerTimestamps: [00:00:05] Introduction – Where Courtney calls home and what she loves about Germany[00:00:43] Exploring "goodness" and doing everything "right" in marriage and faith[00:01:16] Early adulthood: marriage, Evangelical Christian context, and career beginnings[00:03:00] High-control religion explained and how it shaped Courtney’s identity[00:04:07] Becoming a sex educator and therapist as a Christian woman[00:06:00] The "quiet erosion"—starting to question Evangelical beliefs (gay marriage, inclusion)[00:07:26] Deconstruction: pulling apart faith, family, and community[00:12:29] Motherhood, caretaking, and the emotional toll of self-sacrifice[00:16:12] Shame, disconnection, and curiosity about sex as a teen in religious spaces[00:19:49] The internalization of body criticism and purity culture[00:21:00] The pivotal moment: choosing honesty and confronting marriage dissatisfaction[00:22:33] Attempting non-monogamy to save the marriage; coming out as polyamorous[00:31:00] Defining polyamory versus non-monogamy for listeners[00:32:16] Couples therapy, growth, and life after honesty[00:33:03] How Courtney’s life is different today—joy, freedom, and authentic connection[00:35:19] Courtney’s professional work as a relationship and sexuality expert[00:36:07] Books authored by Courtney and resources for listeners[00:37:00] Fun reactions to being a sex and relationship therapist[00:37:35] Book recommendations and where Courtney turns when seeking new information[00:38:29] Closing gratitude and episode wrap-upABOUT THE SHOW: The Art of Imperfect Adulting elevates the voices of experience by sharing real stories from real people figuring out adult life. Every episode features honest conversations about life's choices, changes, and challenges—interviews with individuals (not celebrities) who share their personal experiences and insights. Through these authentic stories, listeners find validation, motivation, and inspiration for navigating their own path through modern life. Because there's a big difference between expert advice and shared experience, and hearing another person's lived experience helps us feel less alone in our own situations.CONNECT WITH THE GUEST: www.courtneyboyercoaching.comIf you have a story to share and you'd like to be a guest on The Art of Imperfect Adulting, here are the steps for how you can make that happen. Pitch yourself at https://www.imperfectadulting.com/be-a-guestNever Miss a Moment of Imperfect AdultingWe invite you to join our email community and let us bring the podcast directly to you! As a subscriber, you'll receive notifications about new episodes, exclusive offers from our amazing guests, and easier access to any of the important links mentioned on the show—no more scrambling to write down websites or remember special codes.Why subscribe?Stay up-to-date without checking your podcast appGet guest offers delivered straight to your inboxAccess all important links in one convenient placeCatch the highlights even when you don't have time to listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.comHere are a few resources that Amy uses to make all this great content. These are affiliate links :-)For livestreaming and recording ECamm https://www.ecamm.com/mac/ecammlive/?fp_ref=amy69Podcast hosting and distribution: Captivate FM https://www.captivate.fm/signup?ref=ntczmwi Website hosting with Siteground https://www.siteground.com/?referrer_id=9115590Ai Transcription Tool: Castmagic https://get.castmagic.io/ugrmjjrt8ofjFor Email I recently switched to Beehiiv https://www.beehiiv.com?via=Amy-Stonebefore that I used Kit. Books I like and books written by show guests on Bookshop.org https://bookshop.org/lists/podcast-guest-authors
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42 MIN
Holistic Health Journey and Letting Go of Old Beliefs with Sarah Dawkins
APR 30, 2026
Holistic Health Journey and Letting Go of Old Beliefs with Sarah Dawkins
If you love the show and you'd like to support it directly you can tip the host here https://imperfect-adulting.captivate.fm/supportIn this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Sarah Dawkins about moving from traditional nursing to a career in holistic healing. Dawkins is based in Spain. Sarah shares the powerful story of how questioning established medical norms led her to an identity transformation and inspired her to help others heal naturally. Listeners will learn about the inner conflict of leaving a medical system she once cherished and the personal healing journey that changed her perspective.Sarah Dawkins is a Holistic Health and Healing Coach, International Speaker, the Author of HEAL YOURSELF and the host of the popular health-focused podcast Heal Yourself with Sarah Dawkins. As a former Registered Nurse with over twenty years of medical experience, Sarah brings a unique, integrative perspective to her work. Sarah’s expertise spans from self-healing multiple chronic health issues to supporting clients in uncovering and addressing the root causes of their symptoms, empowering them to achieve vibrant, lasting health and transformative wellness.Main Topics Covered:How questioning professional norms in nursing led to a profound personal and professional transformation.The influence of geographic moves (UK to US to Spain) on worldview and healing philosophy.The emotional toll and identity crisis that arises when your values no longer align with your profession.Differentiating traditional Western medicine from holistic and natural healing approaches.The role of diet, lifestyle, and mindfulness in managing and healing chronic physical and mental health conditions.Strategies for helping others tune into their own "innate wisdom" and address root causes instead of only treating symptoms.Building a business around holistic health—transitioning from nurse, to entrepreneur, to holistic health coach.Combining, complementing, and sometimes rejecting aspects of Western medicine for more integrated self-care.Quote from the Episode: "I just wanted to help people, to have the knowledge to help themselves. …And for me, once I'd learned that, that truly is helping people to help themselves rather than helping them to stay in that medical model, in that western medicine." — Sarah DawkinsTimestamps:[00:00:05] Introduction & welcome—Sarah calls Spain home, discusses loving its tranquility[00:01:20] Why Sarah became a nurse and the UK nursing education process[00:04:02] Early nursing career and the first major challenge to professional beliefs[00:05:22] The pivotal coworker conversation about vaccines that sparked months of research[00:09:22] Expanding research beyond vaccines into pharmaceuticals, nutrition, and natural healing[00:13:44] Applying new knowledge to personal health: overcoming chronic illnesses through lifestyle changes[00:16:32] Living two lives: Integrating holistic habits at home and following protocols at work[00:18:00] Attempt to practice Reiki in nursing, and the professional limitations encountered[00:20:27] Specific patient interactions that deepened the conflict between values and job role[00:24:13] The inner struggle: Reported for holistic advice, facing ridicule, and mounting anxiety[00:27:17] The mental health crisis: Depression, suicidal thoughts, and the necessity of a "timeout"[00:30:49] Leaving nursing: Exploring entrepreneurship and using transferable skills[00:34:55] Earning new professional validation and certifications; becoming a coach, surrendering the nursing license[00:37:30] Reconciling Western and holistic medicine—when each is appropriate[00:40:20] Today’s work: Helping others get to the root cause of their symptoms[00:42:49] Free eBook offer for listeners and podcast details[00:43:38] Fun closer: favorite childhood TV show, book recommendation, and recent online purchaseABOUT THE SHOW: The Art of Imperfect Adulting elevates the voices of experience by sharing real stories from real people figuring out adult life. Every episode features honest conversations about life's choices, changes, and challenges—interviews with individuals (not celebrities) who share their personal experiences and insights. Through these authentic stories, listeners find validation, motivation, and inspiration for navigating their own path through modern life. Because there's a big difference between expert advice and shared experience, and hearing another person's lived experience helps us feel less alone in our own situations.CONNECT WITH THE GUEST: https://www.sarahdawkins.comGET SARAH'S SPECIAL OFFER: Understanding Your Core Beliefs https://mailchi.mp/7a6d66bbb5e1/core-beliefsNever Miss a Moment of Imperfect AdultingWe invite you to join our email community and let us bring the podcast directly to you! As a subscriber, you'll receive notifications about new episodes, exclusive offers from our amazing guests, and easier access to any of the important links mentioned on the show—no more scrambling to write down websites or remember special codes.Why subscribe?Stay up-to-date without checking your podcast appGet guest offers delivered straight to your inboxAccess all important links in one convenient placeCatch the highlights even when you don't have time to listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.comIf you have a story to share and you'd like to be a guest on The Art of Imperfect Adulting, here are the steps for how you can make that happen. Pitch yourself at https://www.imperfectadulting.com/be-a-guestHere are a few resources that Amy uses to make all this great content. These are affiliate links :-)For livestreaming and recording ECamm https://www.ecamm.com/mac/ecammlive/?fp_ref=amy69Podcast hosting and distribution: Captivate FM https://www.captivate.fm/signup?ref=ntczmwi Website hosting with Siteground https://www.siteground.com/?referrer_id=9115590Ai Transcription Tool: Castmagic https://get.castmagic.io/ugrmjjrt8ofjFor Email I recently switched to Beehiiv https://www.beehiiv.com?via=Amy-Stonebefore that I used Kit. Books I like and books written by show guests on Bookshop.org https://bookshop.org/lists/podcast-guest-authors
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50 MIN
From Medicine to Ministry with Hospital Chaplain Christine Davies
APR 28, 2026
From Medicine to Ministry with Hospital Chaplain Christine Davies
If you love the show and you'd like to support it directly you can tip the host here https://imperfect-adulting.captivate.fm/supportIn this episode of The Art of Imperfect Adulting, Amy Stone speaks with Christine Davies about the journey from aspiring physician to hospital chaplain, and how living with epilepsy reshaped her personal and professional life. Christine joins the show from Hunterdon County, New Jersey. The audience will enjoy insights on medical advocacy, faith, self-care, and how adversity can guide us to new callings.The Rev. Christine Vaughan Davies is an ordained Presbyterian Minister, ACPE Certified Educator, seminary professor and trained Spiritual Director. She runs the Spiritual Care Department at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital. She lives with her family on a small farm in New Jersey and spends her time chasing chickens and chauffeuring her school-aged children to all their activities.Main Topics Covered:Facing medical gaslighting and learning self-advocacy through epilepsy diagnosis.Differentiating spirituality and organized religion, and healing after negative religious experiences.The emotional toll of pursuing difficult diagnoses and supporting loved ones through health uncertainty.How changing career paths—EMT, medicine, therapy, social work—clarified Christine’s desire to help others deeply and holistically.Lessons from life transitions, "dark night of the soul," and adapting to new normals after illness or loss.The role and misconceptions of chaplains in hospital settings, plus Christine’s approach to soulful self-care.How witnessing life’s toughest moments inspired her writing, teaching, and advanced care work.The importance of advance directives and having crucial conversations about health care decisions.Practical wisdom for balancing demanding caregiving/healing professions and personal mental health.Quote from the Episode: “One of the things that I would encourage your listeners...and it became true for me from the diagnosis, is learning to trust your own body. And I sometimes tell my patients this. You know your body better than anyone else, so if something feels off for you, you are the expert.” — Christine DaviesTimestamps: [00:00:05] Welcome & intros; Christine’s Jersey roots and hobby farm living[00:01:24] Becoming a hospital chaplain: Early dreams in medicine and EMT experience[00:04:04] The challenge & relief of epilepsy diagnosis; struggles with medical advocacy[00:06:10] Types of seizures and impact on daily life, plus career pivots[00:08:16] Persistence through the medical system; supporting loved ones with diagnoses[00:12:46] What spirituality means beyond religion; deconstructing harmful faith structures[00:16:07] Experiencing the “dark night of the soul” amidst health crisis[00:18:41] Exploring therapy, social work, and ultimately chaplaincy—making tough choices[00:21:29] Navigating career decisions & backup plans; learning through each transition[00:22:05] Misconceptions around hospital chaplains; teaching, internships, and finding her calling[00:25:34] Maintaining emotional balance in high stress roles; soulful self-care and nature on the farm[00:28:09] Lessons from witnessing grief and death, and why sharing stories matters[00:30:05] Advance care planning and having tough conversations with family[00:32:15] Christine’s private practice and working as a spiritual director[00:32:56] Rapid-fire questions: favorite pizza, rainy day relaxation, and parenting hacks[00:35:06] Closing gratitude and where to find Christine’s free spiritual practices offerABOUT THE SHOW: The Art of Imperfect Adulting elevates the voices of experience by sharing real stories from real people figuring out adult life. Every episode features honest conversations about life's choices, changes, and challenges—interviews with individuals (not celebrities) who share their personal experiences and insights. Through these authentic stories, listeners find validation, motivation, and inspiration for navigating their own path through modern life. Because there's a big difference between expert advice and shared experience, and hearing another person's lived experience helps us feel less alone in our own situations.CONNECT WITH THE GUEST: www.christinevdavies.comGET CHRISTINE'S SPECIAL OFFER: 5 simple spiritual practices you can do today - download https://www.christinevdavies.com/giftNote from the show: Guest offers are almost always limited-time and limited quantity. If you have any trouble redeeming the offer please reach out directly to the guest for support.Never Miss a Moment of Imperfect AdultingWe invite you to join our email community and let us bring the podcast directly to you! As a subscriber, you'll receive notifications about new episodes, exclusive offers from our amazing guests, and easier access to any of the important links mentioned on the show—no more scrambling to write down websites or remember special codes.Why subscribe?Stay up-to-date without checking your podcast appGet guest offers delivered straight to your inboxAccess all important links in one convenient placeCatch the highlights even when you don't have time to listenAre you ready? Join us at https://www.imperfectadulting.comIf you have a story to share and you'd like to be a guest on The Art of Imperfect Adulting, here are the steps for how you can make that happen. Pitch yourself at https://www.imperfectadulting.com/be-a-guestHere are a few resources that Amy uses to make all this great content. These are affiliate links :-)For livestreaming and recording ECamm https://www.ecamm.com/mac/ecammlive/?fp_ref=amy69Podcast hosting and distribution: Captivate FM https://www.captivate.fm/signup?ref=ntczmwi Website hosting with Siteground https://www.siteground.com/?referrer_id=9115590Ai Transcription Tool: Castmagic https://get.castmagic.io/ugrmjjrt8ofjFor Email I recently switched to Beehiiv https://www.beehiiv.com?via=Amy-Stonebefore that I used Kit. Books I like and books written by show guests on Bookshop.org https://bookshop.org/lists/podcast-guest-authors
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38 MIN