Introducing The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast: The Bold Truth Will Set You Free

In Episode 22 of The PhD Mommy's Journey, Bridgette cracks open the raw, unfiltered truth behind Rule 8 from Jordan Peterson's 12 Rules for Life: "Tell the truth – or, at least, don't lie."

This episode isn't about surface-level affirmations—it's about radical self-honesty.
It's about the lies we quietly tell ourselves just to survive… and how they silently rob us of the life we were born to lead.

Bridgette unpacks the internal weight of pretending—how body dysmorphia, mom guilt, and fear of outshining others can keep us stuck, small, and silent. She shares what it looks like to finally stop shrinking, start owning your power, and be bold enough to tell the truth about who you are—even when that truth is messy.

Expect hard truths, fierce compassion, and the mindset shifts that helped her go from lose over 140+ pounds, from self-doubt to self-command, and from hiding her light to leading boldly as a Navy Sailor, PhD candidate, and devoted mom.

This episode is for the woman who's tired of faking it. Who's done downplaying her greatness. Who's ready to be real so she can be free.

In this episode, you'll hear: 1. The Hidden Weight of Lying to Yourself

Bridgette reveals how the lies we tell ourselves—about not being good enough, fit enough, worthy enough—pile up like emotional clutter. The truth? They're heavier than any burden the truth will ever bring.

2. How Not Telling the Truth Creates Mental + Physical Fatigue

There's nothing more exhausting than living out of alignment. Bridgette shares how this shows up in burnout, bitterness, and self-betrayal—and how telling the truth restored her energy and clarity.

3. Boldness Isn't Arrogance. It's Alignment.

She breaks down the difference between ego and embodiment—and why dimming your light to keep others comfortable is spiritual sabotage. It's time to stop apologizing for your greatness.

4. The Lies That Keep Us Small

From body dysmorphia to mom guilt to imposter syndrome, Bridgette unpacks the inner stories that almost stole her identity—and how she rewrote the script by facing herself.

5. The Discipline of Truth in Daily Life

She shares how journaling, her 30-item gratitude practice, and self-talk rituals help her stay honest—even on days where it's hard to see herself clearly through the fog of pressure.

6. Military Mom Guilt & Dual Realities

Bridgette opens up about what it's like to serve her country while raising daughters from afar—and how she's learning that being an amazing mom doesn't mean being physically present 24/7. It means showing up with integrity, love, and purpose.

7. Body Dysmorphia After Weight Loss

After losing over 140+ pounds, Bridgette still had to face the truth: her mind hadn't caught up with her transformation. She shares how affirming her new reality was a war she had to fight with truth, not just mirrors.

8. Why Telling the Truth Reclaims Your Power

The truth activates alignment. Bridgette explains how living in truth rebuilds trust with yourself, your Creator, and your future. And how lying to yourself—even subtly—is spiritual warfare.

💡 Key Takeaways

• Lying to yourself is the real weight—truth sets you free.

• Boldness is holy. Stop dimming to make others comfortable.

• Body dysmorphia is real, but truth heals perception.

• Mom guilt doesn't make you more loving—alignment does.

• Truth isn't always pretty, but it's always powerful.
  

🎁 Free Resource for Listeners:

Download your 30-Day Gratitude & Goal-Setting Journal—the same tool Bridgette uses daily to stay grounded in every season of life.

📝 Click here to grab your free copy.

🎧 Listen and Subscribe to The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast on 🎧

Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Google Podcasts • YouTube 

📬 Contact & Connect with Bridgette

• 🌐 Website: https://thephdmommy.com/ 
• 📸 Instagram @Thephdmommylife • https://www.instagram.com/thephdmommylife
• 💌: thephdmommylife@gmail.com | hi@thephdmommy.com

🤝 Sponsorship & Collaborations:

Want to sponsor an episode, send products, or collaborate with Bridgette?

Please reach out to thephdmommylife@gmail.com with the subject line: Sponsorship Opportunity.

📣 Share Your Story:

If you would like to be a guest and share your story on The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast, please fill out this form.

📚 Resource Mentioned:

Link to Dr. Peterson's Book, 12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos

Introducing The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast: Discipline Over Drama — Choosing Meaning Over the Mess

In Episode 21 of The PhD Mommy's Journey, Bridgette dives into the gritty, soul-defining truth of Rule 7 from Jordan Peterson's 12 Rules for Life: "Pursue what is meaningful, not what is expedient."

This episode isn't about chasing comfort—it's about choosing legacy.
It's about doing the hard, monotanous, inconvenient work… on purpose.
Bridgette shares what it means to stay ready so you never have to get ready—especially as a Navy Sailor, PhD candidate, and mother of two. She unpacks how writing 30 things she's grateful for every single day for the past two years helped establis a foundation of resilience and helped her reclaim her mindset during those seasons of pressure, pain, and purpose.

Through personal stories and fierce insight, Bridgette explains why it's worth it to suffer for something meaningful—and how she learned to stop outsourcing her power. Expect tough love, faith-fueled reflection, and a roadmap to becoming the most disciplined, aligned version of yourself.

This episode is for the woman who's tired of circling the drain of quick fixes and is ready to walk boldly into the life she was born to build.

In this episode, you'll hear:

1. Why You're Still Going to Suffer Either Way
   Bridgette breaks down the truth: both paths come with pain—so choose the pain that actually builds you. Because regret costs more than discipline ever will.
   
   
2. Chasing Meaning vs. Chasing Noise
   Jordan Peterson says it plainly: don't chase the expedient. Bridgette explains why being "busy" isn't the same as being "in purpose"—and how to tell the difference.
   
   
3. The Pain of Not Showing Up
   That moment when you know you were called to rise… and you didn't. That's the pain that lingers. Bridgette explains how she learned to show up—especially on the days she wanted to check out.
   
   
4. Daily Disciplines That Ground Her
   From waking up early to training like her life depends on it (because it does), Bridgette shares the routines that sharpen her spirit and anchor her mind—even in chaos.
   
   
5. Boss Babe Energy Meets Grit
   The divine feminine flow meets military-level focus. This is what it looks like to embody both softness and steel—and to live like your future is already watching.
   
   
6. Tools for Emotional Toughness and Fierce Focus
   Journaling, silence, gratitude lists, physical challenge, and spiritual devotion—this section is all about building your internal war chest so you stop quitting on yourself.
   
   
7. Redefining Identity Through Meaningful Sacrifice
   The version of you you're becoming? She requires sacrifice. Bridgette lays it out: you reclaim your identity by choosing structure over chaos—and meaning over the mess.

💡 Key Takeaways:

• Suffer with purpose—you're going to feel pain either way, so make it count.

• Discipline is devotion, not deprivation—it's how you prove you're committed to your calling.

• Busy is noise. Purpose is clarity. Choose meaning over motion.

• Gratitude and structure are your armor—they protect your mind, energy, and identity.

• You don't need to feel ready—just stay ready. Show up anyway, especially when it's hard.

🎁 Free Resource for Listeners:

Download your 30-Day Gratitude & Goal-Setting Journal—the same tool Bridgette uses daily to stay grounded in every season of life.

📝 Click here to grab your free copy.

🎧 Listen and Subscribe to The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast on 🎧

Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Google Podcasts • YouTube 

📬 Contact & Connect with Bridgette

• 🌐 Website: https://thephdmommy.com/ 
• 📸 Instagram @Thephdmommylife • https://www.instagram.com/thephdmommylife
• 💌: thephdmommylife@gmail.com | hi@thephdmommy.com

🤝 Sponsorship & Collaborations:

Want to sponsor an episode, send products, or collaborate with Bridgette?

Please reach out to thephdmommylife@gmail.com with the subject line: Sponsorship Opportunity.

📣 Share Your Story:

If you would like to be a guest and share your story on The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast, please fill out this form.

📚 Resource Mentioned:

Link to Dr. Peterson's Book, 12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos

 

Introducing "The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast": The Power of Self-Efficacy

Join Bridgette (Brie) Ojo, The PhD Mommy and ultimate millennial mompreneur guide, in her captivating podcast series designed exclusively for ambitious mompreneurs like you! As an educator, scientist, researcher, and PhD candidate, Bridgette is dedicated to helping other dominate their sector in the marketplace while nurturing mindset, motherhood, and motivation. Get ready to embark on a transformative journey through storytelling with science, business, entrepreneurship, research, and personal experiences are intricately woven to empower and embolden you in creating a sustainable financial ecosystem.

In this episode, "The Power of Self-Efficacy", Bridgette highlights the importance of self-efficacy and what it means to believe in yourself. Bridgette introduces the topic of self-efficacy, the belief in one's capacity to accomplish tasks. Self-efficacy was first proposed by Albert Bandura in 1977 and is a key predictor of behavior change. Self-efficacy influences goals, energy, and likelihood of success. Bridgette shows examples of self-efficacy in practice through the self-efficacy theory (SET), which has influenced various fields, including health psychology, education and sociology. Bridgette provides examples of applications: self-management of chronic diseases, smoking cessation, alcohol use, eating, pain control, and exercise. As a devoted entrepreneur, Bridgette shows readers how self-efficacy is the secret sauce for achieving dreams. In a fast-paced business world, it's easy to doubt ourselves. Self-efficacy is the inner voice that pushes us to push beyond our limits. Believing in our abilities makes us resilient and unstoppable. Research shows that when we believe in our abilities, we take on challenges with resilience. Florence Scovell Shin and Dr. Jordan Peterson's wisdom aligns with self-efficacy and faith; Bridgette is a firm believer in using outside sources to help fine-tune and better understand us. She believes that when we combine faith, belief, and philosophy, we become unstoppable.

"Across Both Sides of the Mirror" by Bianca Pensy Aba is a highly recommended book. It is a beautifully crafted adult contemporary low fantasy novel touching on existential crisis, found family, individuality, and African mythology. Bridgette personally loved the book and felt a deep connection with the main character, Nova. Get your copy on Amazon, Kindle, or Barnes and Nobles.

This episode harmoniously blends market research solutions with self-efficacy to help you harness tool to dominate your sector. Reflect on your incredible power and embrace unshakable self-belief. Bridgette believes in your duty to embrace your God-given talents, apply research and business wisdom, and anchor yourself in faith. As Christian mompreneurs, Phillipians 4:13 reminds us we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. Embrace self-efficacy, align with a greater power, and boldly step into the marketplace. Hold onto the truth and remember you are destined for greatness. Self-efficacy empowers us to rise above self-doubt. We are capable, driven, and together, an unstoppable force. As you stretch your God-given potential, Bridgette encourages you to always shatter glass ceilings, push beyond limits, and make your mark on the world.

🎧 Listen and Subscribe to The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast on 🎧

Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Google Podcasts • YouTube 

To Contact Bridgette:

Instagram @Thephdmommylife • https://www.instagram.com/thephdmommylife

Email: thephdmommylife@gmail.com 

 

Introducing "The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast": Your Path to Financial Mastery!

Join Brie, the ultimate millennial mompreneur guide, in her captivating podcast series designed exclusively for ambitious mompreneurs like you. As an educator, scientist, and successful mama, Brie unveils the secrets to building generational wealth and seizing total financial control. Get ready to embark on a transformative journey where science, research, and personal experiences converge to empower you in creating a sustainable financial ecosystem.

In this episode, "The Importance of Creating a Sustainable Garden," Brie unleashes the untapped potential within you. She paints a vivid picture of how nature's wisdom parallels your entrepreneurial voyage, infusing biology with business brilliance. Brace yourself as symbiotic relationships and sustainability take center stage, unveiling the winning formula for your mompreneurial triumph.

Immerse yourself in the metaphorical world of gardens and farmers, where the right seeds (your genius ideas) flourish in fertile environments. Brie shares her captivating insights, revealing how aligning your purpose with your target audience's needs unlocks your unique business niche—a pathway to unstoppable success!

Unlock the three-step strategy—Know, Sow, Grow—to unleash your mompreneurial prowess. Brie masterfully guides you through the art of self-awareness, goal setting, and personal growth. Prepare to witness the magnificent transformation as you cultivate your own garden of dreams, nurturing your seeds of success with dedication and determination.

But the journey doesn't stop there! Brie unveils the vital connection between personal growth and business prosperity. Discover the power of authenticity and the influence it wields in shaping your brand. Embrace the wild ride of self-discovery and unleash your full potential to create an impact that leaves a lasting legacy.

As you devour each episode, remember that you're not alone on this incredible voyage. Brie eagerly awaits your feedback, urging you to share this podcast with fellow mompreneurs who crave financial empowerment. Don't miss out on a single episode—subscribe now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app.

Prepare to be captivated, inspired, and equipped with the tools and knowledge you need to conquer the world as a millennial mompreneur. Follow Brie on Instagram @thephdmommylife, sign up for her newsletter, and unleash your true potential. Remember, greatness awaits you!

This is not just a podcast—it's your ticket to financial freedom, personal growth, and unparalleled success. Welcome to "The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast," where curiosity, humility, and an insatiable hunger for success reign supreme.

 

🎧 Listen and Subscribe to The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast on 🎧

Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Google Podcasts • YouTube 

To Contact Brie:

Instagram @Thephdmommylife • https://www.instagram.com/thephdmommylife

Email: info@aphdmommy.com 

 

Episode 10: How to Enjoy Life, Plan the Journey

In this episode of The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast, Brie delves into two profound concepts: 'Experience' and 'Perception' – two potent tools that can shape your life's journey.

Experience

According to Merriam-Webster (n.d.), 'experience' is defined as, "the conscious events that make up an individual's life." Our experiences are a combination of what we live through, learn from, and use as a stepping stone to personal growth. Merriam-Webster further defines experience as, "the act or process of directly perceiving events of reality." 

Each experience, whether it's a business win, a parenting breakthrough, or even a setback, adds a unique layer to your life. These experiences are not just events, but lessons that shape you, teaching resilience, patience, innovation, and tenacity. They mold you into a dynamic woman who can pivot a business strategy while also managing a toddler tantrum.

Perception

'Perception', on the other hand, is the way we understand or interpret our experiences. It causes us to, "attain awareness or understanding of" the lens through which we view our world, influencing our mindset and, in turn, our reality.

Perception is a fascinating aspect of our human experience. It's our personal interpretation of the world around us, shaped by our senses, experiences, and individual cognitive processes. Perception is like a personal filter (or lens) for our reality. It's how we make sense of what we see, hear, touch, taste, and smell. But it goes beyond just our five senses. It includes how we interpret situations, understand others' actions, and even how we view ourselves. Perception can be influenced by our background, beliefs, values, and current emotional state, making it unique to each individual.

Why You Should Care

Through engaging storytelling, enlightening discussion, and sharing educational insights, Brie explores how these concepts play a critical role in developing a mindset that allows you to fully enjoy life. She also discuss strategies to plan your ultimate destination, be it a state of financial freedom, a lifestyle imbued with discipline and motivation, or a self-made haven of mental well-being.

Join Brie as she unravels the power of experience and perception, guiding you towards a paradigm shift that can be life-changing.

Let's journey together, proving that even amidst the challenges of parenting and entrepreneurship, millennial moms like you can cultivate a mindset focused on enjoyment, growth, and achieving your desired destination.

Remember, the key to living an enriched life doesn't lie in what you experience, but rather how you perceive it. Tune in, and take a step closer to that ultimate destination!

 

🎧 Listen and Subscribe to The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast on 🎧

Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Google Podcasts • YouTube 

To Contact Brie:

Instagram @Thephdmommylife • https://www.instagram.com/thephdmommylife

Email: info@aphdmommy.com 

 

Episode 9: How to Enjoy Life: Choose the Ultimate Destination

In this episode of The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast, Brie talks about how we all need to STOP waiting for the perfect moment in life. To get better, you have to simply get better.

We are all going to die. There is no escaping this harsh, yet powerful reality. We do not know the day, time, place, nor the manner in which we die.

What if today was the day?

What if you died today…how would you feel?

 
Really think about this: imagine you are going to work. You have a million and one things in your head per usual, you get a series of text messages, you're exhausted, you yawn… BANG.

You were involved in a car accident and ended up being partially ejected because you never put on your seatbelt. You were too busy to hear the warning from your car because you were too busy yelling at people, honking, cursing out people, telling them to move out of the way, while listening to loud meaningless music that doesn't even really align with your morals.

"Did I tell my daughter I love her?"
"I never called my mom back…"
"Who is going to pick up my kids?"

Pretty bad, huh?

Yeah, I know. This is why you need to change…like, now. 

The difference between successful and non-successful people:

• They get things done, no matter how they feel.

Stop sitting around waiting and thinking. Stop doing "research" and "waiting."

Go out there and become who you want to be. 

Who care about the past? That was so yesterday 💁‍♀️

 
Stop caring about what others think. 

Be yourself. 

Be proud in who you are. 

You are popping. 

You are perfect.

Go all the way in, queen.

 

Here's what you need to do:

1. Stop doing what you're doing.
   
   Here is the scoop: either you want to cry every night alone eating taco bell, tums and red bull or…you could be drinking red wine in Paris with the man you love. Pick one. No more excuses.
   
   
2. Start doing what you're not doing. Why? Well, because as you remove bad things, you need to replace it with good things. Think of it as a filtering process. Out with the old, in with the new. How simple? 

Start off small. No matter how small, just start. 

"You are what you do, not what you say you will do." -Carl Jung.

 

Here is what I am going to start doing:

-Read one Bible verse a day.

Sometimes a girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do.

Make it happen.

Claim your greatness.

 

You decide what, where, when, how, and if you are going to enjoy your life.

 

Choose your destination. 

 

Are you ready?

Let's ride…

A special thank you to Chispa Motivation for the amazing motivational video at the end of this podcast episode. Here is the link to this amazing motivational video.

 

🎧 Listen and Subscribe to The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast on 🎧

Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Google Podcasts • YouTube 

 

To Contact Brie:

Instagram @Thephdmomlife • https://www.instagram.com/thephdmomlife

Email: info@aphdmommy.com 

 

 

Episode 8: How to Enjoy Life: Expect Nothing, Accept Everything

In this episode of The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast, Brie talks about expectations and the importance of expecting nothing and accepting everything.

Why are expectations important?

Expectations are the root cause of life's upsets. Expectations represent a gap between how things are and how things should have been. Expectations can bring you down, weigh you down heavily based off your needs and wants.

We all have and experience: Expectations, disappointments and setbacks.


We have them for ourselves and we have them for others, in our friendships, relationships, businesses, and more.

By having expectations for others, we:

• Treat them better than those we think will fail.
• Give them more opportunities to try and become successful.
• Give them more detailed and accurate feedback.

What are Expectations?


Expectations are emotional beliefs of an occurrence that may take place in the the future. Expectations cause us to wait, watch, anticipate, and hope. Though it is good to have faith, the problem with expectations is that when we have expectations, we set ourselves up for disappointment.

Instead of having high expectations, don't.

 

Expect nothing, accept everything.

Let go of your expectations a little…things don't HAVE to be perfect.

When you don't have expectations, things never go wrong because you didn't expect them to go right or wrong.

You begin to accept others for who they are.
You accept yourself for who you are.


Expectations are the killer of all happiness in life.

If you think:

Life should be fair.
Everyone should like you.
People should agree with you.
People understand what you are saying.
You must always do well.
Things will make you happy.
You can change others…

You are setting yourself up for failure.

Instead…

Stop expecting others to act exactly as you would want them to.
Build your own happiness and confidence by having better self-control over your thoughts and beliefs.

Stay in the moment as often as you can.

When you expect nothing, you're living in the moment.
When you accept everything, you are owning everything and in charge of the situation.

If you want to live a rich and successful life, expect nothing and accept everything. 

Your life, success and happiness are in your own hands. Take control of your life and stop making excuses.

Love your current life for what it is, not what you expected it to be.

Listen 🎧
Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Google Podcasts • YouTube 

Contact Brie:

Instagram @Thephdmomlife • https://www.instagram.com/thephdmomlife

Email: info@aphdmommy.com

 

 

 

Welcome to The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast, a podcast for those who want to actually enjoy life.

I'm your host, Brie, your bestie who also happens to be your number one fan. I am an educator, scientific researcher and Qualitative Storyteller who's obsessed with science and dedicated to equipping you with valuable and useful tools along your life journey. I believe you have a unique and special gift the world needs to experience, and I am here to help. Understand one thing: you have exactly the tools needed to create a more purposeful and meaningful life. 

This is the seventh episode of the series, Unf—k yourself, by Gary Bishop. On the previous episode, I talked about the importance of knowing who you are, also known as your identity. In addition, I briefly talked about the importance of your identity, how it's formed, and the impact it has on human behavior. I also talked about the brain, mind and how both of these key components of your behavior is influenced by your thoughts. The mind is a powerful thing because your thoughts have power; however, it is very important to know that you are not your thoughts, you are what what you do. 

On today's episode, I'm going to start off by asking you this one important question: Do you really want to enjoy a life you love? How comfortable are you with being uncomfortable? Are you willing to go against the grain to achieve beyond your wildest dreams? If so, stay tuned.

The title of chapter seven is: I am relentless. Are you relentless?

What is relentless and why is it important?
Relentless is showing or promising no abatement of severity, intensity, strength, or pace. Another word would be known as unrelenting: not softening or yielding in determination. How many times have you been successful in life? How many times have you experienced winning? How did it feel? Great, right? Everyone wants to win; everyone wants to be congratulated and celebrated…I mean, you worked hard, so why not?

Here's another question:
What is something you've always dreamed of? What is something you wish you could've always done? I'll go first: I have always wanted to be a philanthropist…I've always wanted to be someone who makes a difference in the world by helping people feel better about themselves. I shied away from it through starting to apply to medical school, becoming a teacher, getting a phd…which have all been great because I learned a lot along the way, but I never felt a sense of fulfillment because those things were very easy for me. However, one area in my life: speaking, specifically public speaking…that has been something I've always ran away from on the other side. 

Anyone who knows me knows I'm an introvert; I'm very shy, quiet and I prefer to stay to myself. I know a lot of people and I have a lot of people who support me, but I tend to be alone. I enjoy being alone because I can get lost in my thoughts…however, I started to notice that there were a lot of people who became very depressed. I felt bad because I realized that there were so many people who have either lost hope or lacked confidence and lacked an ability to have some type of self-worth. I've tried encouraging a lot of people and realized I needed to do more…so I did. It hasn't been easy, but I am in a better place mentally simply being myself. 

What about you?
What about you? How are you feeling? No, really how are you? It's okay to be honest. Take a few seconds to really sit down and think about how you are feeling. 

See, the thing about life is that we all face obstacles; we all face battles, silent battles, embarrassing battles…tragic battles. Think about the battles you have faced and continue to face in your life. Think about the things you have done and allowed others to have a specific judgment about you? Maybe you are someone who is ready for a change…maybe you are someone who is truly tired of being stuck in a never ending hamster wheel of depression, anxiety, fear, laziness, procrastination…maybe you are someone who wants to change. Guess what, you can change…you can become this beautiful masterpiece after chipping at that invisible rock over your life. Are you ready to change?

"Nothing in the world is worth having or worth doing unless it means effort, pain, difficulty." -Theodore Roosevelt

Back to my earlier question: What have you always dreamed of doing? Who have you always dreamed of becoming? What have you always dreamed of working towards? Why haven't you done it then? What are you waiting for? The perfect moment? That doesn't exist…you can't dictate how things will turn on. You can't dictate on how the game will go or how the story ends, but you can dictate your actions. You can dictate your response to your situation and create a life you truly enjoy. 

It's only true if you agree
Do you know the difference between successful people and unsuccessful people? Relentlessness…of course, it's so easy telling someone: never give up…but you seriously need to keep moving forward. Even on the days you feelik it is the end, you need to keep moving forward. You have a purpose, you have a goal and you have a responsibility to show your talent to the world. 

At some point, you need to realize and understand that your journey of becoming the person whom God has created you to be requires you to be on another level…it requires you to constantly lose day after day after day after day. It requires you to cry, scream, kick, feel sad. Sometimes when we feel sad, we feel as if our life is over…it's not, you're going to be okay. You will be okay. You have a gift the world needs to experience. 

Don't believe me, here's an example: The Wright brothers…they were the first ones to successfully fly a plane. Think about it: so many people doubted them, even their father who was a minister told them they were going to hell because they wanted to fly. Nevertheless, they persisted; they were relentless and so are you. 

Now, even though you have a talent and a gift, that doesn't mean you deserve to be successful. You have to get over yourself because it's not about you…if you really want to be successful and live a life you want on your terms that allows you to be who you want to be, then it requires hard work, late nights, early mornings, sweat, blood, tears, isolation, insomnia, repetition, grit, courage, perseverance, relentlessness and a little bit of faith. From there, now you will be able to reach your goals. It's not a feeling; it is a lifestyle…if you wait until you feel good, you will be waiting there by yourself for a long time.

Don't be that girl or guy.

Believe in yourself. Trust yourself. Don't listen to the naysayers or those who are too scared to reach their own dreams. No matter what it is that you want to do, you have to first believe in yourself. When you believe in yourself and you tell yourself that you're going to be the greatest one to ever do it, you dont care what others say… you dont care how long it takes…you dont care how many times you have to keep going back and forth over and over and over again because you love the process…you love the hunt, you love how much of yourself is coming to the surface. You love that other ppl are beginning to notice the difference and think: she's built different, he's built different…and guess what? That's because you are…you are fearfully and wonderfully made. You are created in the image of God your creator. You better hold your head up high and tell yourself: I am relentless.

There are going to be times where you feel like this is the end. You are going to want to give up and throw in the towel.

Don't

This is the time where it counts the most and you must give everything you've got…and when you have nothing left in the tank, stay up high, and keep moving forward. Keep going, don't stop… keep going. 

You don't know the plans…okay, that's not important now…just keep going. Do not rest in the middle, rest at the end. Life is a journey…becoming great is not a dedication, it is a process. Don't worry about the outside noise, worry about what is in front of you: here and now. Worry about things that matter today. Relentless doesn't mean you are coming in swing or loud. Relentless is working while raising kids, relentlessness is being focused and dedicated to the cause…it's Monday-Monday, 24/7, 365, 366, no days off. All in. Relentless is not some fad, slogan…relentlessness is a way of life.

There will be obstacles…there will be challenges. There will be setbacks and road blocks. What are you going to about it? Are you going to sit down and continue to cry, whine and feel good under your blanket of excuses. Or, are you going to wake up and understand that you need to learn more about yourself. You need to study your craft, you need to work day in and day out to understanding who you are and what you have been called to do. That's when the real magic happens.

Imagine if you committ to something for 6 months, 1 year…think about how you get to look back on your past and say "wow"…that new car, that new job, that new husband, wife, child, house, party, company, car, brand, whatever…all because you kept going forward. 

I leave you with this: as you face the many obstacles in life, never give up. Don't fall, don't waver, don't shy away, run away…instead go towards it. Welcome it, say hello to it and give it a big hug and kiss and tell it how much you missed it. See yourself winning. See yourself in the position, see yourself as CEO, academic scholar, doctor, mvp, and more. Be that person who you want to be. Be the individual who you want to be. You are worth it. You can do it.. I believe in you. Do you believe in you? If you are ready to live the life you want to live, are you willing to be relentless? Are you willing to go against the grain and become who God has designed you to do be. If so…then what are you waiting for? 

You are relentless. Say it with me: I am relentless, I am relentless, I am relentless. You are. You can do it. Go and blaze a new trail. 

This was episode 7, be relentless, where I talked about the importance of moving forward. As always, I'm here to help you live a life you love and enjoy. You are the one who has to make the change. 

Thank you for listening to the PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast. Feel free to subscribe to this channel wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts. Follow me on Instagram @Thephdmomlife https://www.instagram.com/thephdmomlife/ or website at https://aphdmommy.com.

 

 

Hello there and welcome to: The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast – Episode 6 on Mindset: How to Enjoy Life, Action Plan.

In this episode, Bri continues her exploration into the book Unf*k Yourself and emphasizes that knowing who you are is very important. She talks about identity, specifically what is identity and why is it important, as well as how identity is formed. You'll also discover you are not your thoughts; you are what you do.

That's not all! Here's what else you'll learn along the journey:

·The difference between the mind and the brain.

·The important role the subconscious mind has on our everyday life.

·The battle between your conscious and subconscious mind.

·The neuroplasticity of the brain.

·The power of your thoughts.

·Creating a game plan to changing your current situation and beginning to live your life.

 

 

As you encounter the empowering podcast experience, Bri's hope is that you become emboldened, empowered and uplifted to reach your delimited potential by living a life you truly love and enjoy. You can have a successful life; you can have a life full of purpose, wealth, peace, and happiness…you need to simply believe it.

To get in contact with Bri:

INSTAGRAM - @thephdmomlife |https://www.instagram.com/thephdmomlife 

WEBSITE - https://aphdmommy.com

Hello there and welcome to: The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast – Episode 5 on Mindset: How to Enjoy Life, Embrace Life's Uncertainty.

In this episode, Bri continues her exploration into the book, Unf*k Yourself, and emphasizes life's uncertainty. Many people are afraid of change; as humans, we are creatures of habit. However, uncertainty is where new things happen…fun things, exciting things…and we need to embrace it! Bri talks about the addiction all humans have: the addiction of prediction. We want to know everything: the weather, who we are going to spend the rest of our lives with, how our lives will turn out, and so much more. The reality is, we don't know; we can have everything planned, then life will hit us hard. That's the uncertainty; also, that's life. There is nothing you can do about it. The only thing you can simply do is embrace the chaos, embrace the calm, embrace the pain, the peace, embrace it all. Life changes; that's the only thing certain about life.

That's not all! Here's what else you'll learn along the journey:
•    Why obsessing over uncertainty is counterproductive.
•    Uncertainty is where new happens.
•    How easily we psyche ourselves out due to not believing in ourselves.
•    The importance of believing in ourselves (self-efficacy).
•    The power of pushing beyond the resistance. 
•    The pathway to a successful life.
•    Why you shouldn't care what people think.
•    Understand things will be beyond your control.
•    You can only control your response.
•    How to enjoy life right away.

I hope this episode truly inspires you to do better because you are better; you are amazing and you deserve to live a life you enjoy. You can live a good life; I believe you will live a good life.

-Bri

Make sure you don't miss an episode by subscribing to our email list here. Each week, you will receive episode notifications, free guides and more goodies...for free.

Follow Bri on Instagram @thephdmomlife https://www.instagram.com/thephdmomlife  
Website: https://aphdmommy.com 

 

Hello there and welcome to: The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast – Episode 4 on Mindset: How to Enjoy Life, YOU got this.

In this episode, Bri continues her exploration into the book Unf*k Yourself and emphasizes that life is not perfect and it will never be. She talks about the different types of problems people face, both annoying and traumatic, which rarely stays contained in one area of our lives. You'll also discover why and how you need to shift your viewpoint and how you handle problems, giving yourself an opportunity to gain a new perspective.

That's not all! Here's what else you'll learn along the journey:
•    The struggles many mothers face.
•    Failure is not final, but rather a learning experience.
•    Everyone experiences hardship.
•    The Bystander Effect.
•    How quickly little things attach to our "big things".
•    You need to give yourself permission to be the person you wanted to be.
•    There is no such thing as perfection; you should be always looking for more room to grow in.
•    The importance of controlling our mind.
•    How to establish a grateful mindset.
•    What you are searching for is located in a place unwanted.
•    Why you should embrace the darkness.
•    How the obstacle is the way.
•    Every day is a new opportunity to be great.
•    Why we must accept death.
•    There is always light at the end of the tunnel.
•    The personal goal Bri has set for herself. 

To get in contact with Bri:

INSTAGRAM - https://www.instagram.com/thephdmomlife  
WEBSITE: https://aphdmommy.com/ 

Hello there and welcome to: The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast – Episode 3 on Mindset: How to Enjoy Life, Wired to Win.

In this episode, Bri continues her exploration into the book Unf*k Yourself and reveals the ways in which your brain is hardwired to win. She talks about self-efficacy, which is an individual's ability to complete a task or achieve a goal. You'll also discover why and how you are hardwired to win, how our past shapes our present and truly understand how to positively assert your ability to be WIRED TO WIN (in all areas of life!).

That's not all! Here's what else you'll learn along the journey:

• How much our subconscious controls our day-to-day life .

• The three-level mind model created by Sigmund Freud. 

• How to become the ruler of your domain.

• What you must do to switch your domain

• Examining the areas in your life that you are struggling in.

• A famous movie that has taught us how to cultivate learned helplessness.

• How many people subconsciously blame their parents for their current life.

• The importance of pattern recognition.

• Creating an effective game plan to help you be successful in changing your domain.

• Setting small, easy to follow attainable goals.

• The importance of defining your life, the areas in your life and your game.

• Why you should use your gift.

• Why you need to believe in yourself

 

To get in contact with Bri:

INSTAGRAM - https://www.instagram.com/thephdmomlife 

WEBSITE - https://aphdmommy.com

 

To get in contact with Chispa Motivation:

YOUTUBE - To find this motivation clip and more amazing motivation content, subscribe to Chispa Motivation at: https://www.youtube.com/c/chispamotivation 

MOTIVATE APP - Download the Motivate app for free and experience empowering motivational speeches, videos, music, quotes, and more. Take your first step towards a more driven, focused, and inspired life today https://motivate.app/chispa. 

INSTAGRAM - : https://instagram.com/chispamotivation/ 

Introducing The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast: Make Your Bed, Make Your Life (The Power of Small Wins)

In Episode 20 of The PhD Mommy's Journey, Bridgette dives into the unfiltered, soul-shifting wisdom of Rule 6 from Jordan Peterson's 12 Rules for Life: "Set your house in perfect order before you criticize the world."

This episode isn't about being perfect—it's about taking radical ownership of your life, starting with the small things that build trust with yourself: making your bed, taking your vitamins, brushing your teeth… even when no one's watching. Bridgette opens up about how writing 30 things she's grateful for every single day for the past two years transformed her mindset—and how keeping that commitment anchored her through Navy boot camp, mom guilt, and PhD pressures.

She also draws lessons from Make Your Bed by Admiral William McRaven and Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink to show how order, routine, and responsibility aren't just military principles—they're survival tools for every woman trying to rise.

In this episode, you'll hear:

1. The Power of Small Wins
How making your bed each morning isn't just symbolic—it's a statement. It tells your mind: "We're in control now." And how this one habit can reset your day, even if everything else goes off track.

2. Gratitude as a Discipline
Bridgette explains the real reason she writes 30 things she's grateful for every day—and how that small act has kept her grounded through trauma, distance parenting, and self-doubt.

3. The Navy, Routine, and Mental Clarity
What being a warfighter taught her about staying ready—and how that mindset helps her "keep her house in order" physically, mentally, and emotionally.

4. Extreme Ownership in Everyday Life
Borrowing from Jocko Willink's approach, Bridgette shares why owning everything in your life (even what's not your fault) is the key to building self-respect and personal power.

5. Why Criticizing the World Without Cleaning Your Room Doesn't Work
A bold message on accountability, emotional leadership, and the trap of blaming systems without building structure within yourself.

6. Order Before Ambition
Why the next level of your life requires more structure, not just more vision—and how to clean up the mess inside before you try to change the world outside.

💡 Key Takeaways:

• Making your bed = micro-habit, macro-shift.

• Order creates safety. Structure creates sanity.

• Daily gratitude isn't a vibe. It's a weapon.

• You can't change the world if your mind, heart, and habits are in chaos.

• Start where you are. Control what you can. Clean your space. Own your choices.

🎁 Free Resource for Listeners:

Download your 30-Day Gratitude & Goal-Setting Journal—the same tool Bridgette uses daily to stay grounded in every season of life.

📝 Click here to grab your free copy.

🎧 Listen and Subscribe to The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast on 🎧

Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Google Podcasts • YouTube 

📬 Contact & Connect with Bridgette

• 🌐 Website: https://thephdmommy.com/ 
• 📸 Instagram @Thephdmommylife • https://www.instagram.com/thephdmommylife
• 💌: thephdmommylife@gmail.com | hi@thephdmommy.com

🤝 Sponsorship & Collaborations:

Want to sponsor an episode, send products, or collaborate with Bridgette?

Please reach out to thephdmommylife@gmail.com with the subject line: Sponsorship Opportunity.

📣 Share Your Story:

If you would like to be a guest and share your story on The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast, please fill out this form.

📚 Resource Mentioned:

Link to Dr. Peterson's Book, 12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos

 

Hello there and welcome to: The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast – Episode 2 on Mindset: How to Enjoy Life, The Power of Will.

In this episode, Bri continues her exploration into the book Unf*k Yourself and reveals the power you have every time you decide you will or will not do something. She even opens up about how her best friend's death rocked her to the core and why most people avoid conversations about death, grief and bereavement. You'll also discover how to retake control of your life, accept, embrace, and make the most of everything life throws at you (both the miserable and the amazing!).

That's not all! Here's what else you'll learn along the journey:

• The science experiment Bri did on herself using the book Unfu*k Yourself.
• How to use the circumstances in your life as fuel to achieve your greatest desires.
• The most vital life lesson we all must learn that is never taught in school.
• What you must be willing to do if you want to live a life that you love with no regrets.
• Why 99% of people self-sabotage.
• What the most boring part of a basketball game can teach you about facing the toughest obstacles life throws at you.
• Why Bri's planning to shave all her hair off before the end of February.
• A two-minute hack to improve your mood when your mental health is in the dumps.
• A mantra or affirmation you can say daily if you truly want to enjoy your life to the fullest.
• The doors you'll face in life and how to know when to open them or keep them shut.
• The one tool you need to design the life you desire.

To get in contact with Bri:

INSTAGRAM - https://www.instagram.com/thephdmomlife 
WEBSITE - https://aphdmommy.com 

 

Hello there and welcome to a PhD Mommy's mindset. I'm your host Bri, your bestie, who also happens to be your biggest fan. I am a scientific researcher, a self-proclaimed time traveler, qualitative storyteller, who uses science to guide you along your journey of maximizing your potential. Don't worry, I won't leave you hanging. I'm going to make sure that you are never alone. My job is simple. I'm here to help you understand one thing. You have exactly the tools you need to redefine your life and change it how you want it to be. How many times have you searched for something, tearing the entire house upside down and still can't find it? How frustrating is that? What's even more frustrating is that when you have completely given up looking for it and your mom tells you it's okay, we'll find it, then it magically appears within minutes.

Maybe that's just me. It's okay that you are upset with your life since you have acknowledged and accepted that you are unhappy with your life. My next question to you is, what are you going to do about it? Are you willing to keep living and feeling this way? If you have made the conscious decision that you are going to stop letting your thoughts control your actions, good. Deciding and taking action is usually the hardest step because our mind gets overcrowded with all of these negative self-talk constantly screaming and echoing in our head. I'm here to help you slaughter those voices and completely annihilates and silence them. It's going to take some work, but oh, will it be such a sweet victory? How many times have you been afraid to speak to someone, raise your hand in class or even express your opinion in a meeting?

I know I have so many times. I read this amazing book called Un-f yourself, and I used the chapters as a framework along with other research studies and information related to the science behind mindset. I applied principles to my life and I've decided to conduct a personal experiment. This podcast series will be used to document my experience along the way and provide valuable information in hopes that you become emboldened to change your mindset. More importantly, I hope that I empower you to blaze your own trail. You know that quote, when life gives you lemons, make lemonade. Where do you think those lemons came from? From you? I'm here to help you pick up the seeds that will become the lemons you will use to make lemonade, lemon pie, or maybe you don't like lemons. That's fine. 

Someone close to your desk. You never know when someone will need a nice cold glass of lemonade and you are the only one who has the lemon they need. Think bigger, change your perspective. You can't change your mindset. You are not your thoughts. You are your actions. Oftentimes, our brain does its best to protect us, based on how we think and act. It's a way of survival that was useful when we were hunter-gatherers. Fast forward to today's day and age. It is a very thing that holds us back, but why? Why is our mind so powerful that it can cause our heart rate to accelerate, sweat drip from our hands on an event that has not yet even happened? Sometimes our mind is so powerful that it stops us from reaching our potential and going for what we want. The answer is simple, negative self talk. 

We are either having a conversation with ourselves or we are having a conversation with others. The thoughts in our head, the random questioning of, hmm, what do I want to wear today is exactly the type of question we continue to ask ourselves day in and day out? Eventually, we stop asking ourselves that question and we start asking others. We allow other people to place their limitations on us. How many times have you thought about doing something, wearing something, saying something, only for someone to tell you? I don't think that's a good idea. You start to feel insignificant and you reduce your self-esteem down to nothing. As a child, we all have felt unstoppable, invincible, and we have all wanted to strive through life without even considering how we are going to get there. 

I mean, let's think about kids. How many kids have you seen plan an activity course where they jump from the couch to another couch, onto the top bunk, down to the floor, rolling into the bucket, toppling down the stairs onto a skateboard that pushes them outside? Eventually those kids stop playing, either because they listen to mom, dad, grandma, grandpa, and they try to live their life very carefully not to get hurt. Others become medicated. This all happens because of negative self-talk. I'm here to help you change that. I'm here to help flip the switch that helps you get into that character mode like an actor preparing for a play. Only this time you are the producer. You get to create your story exactly the way you want it to be. Are you ready? Let's dive in. 

Welcome to ground zero. You wonder, how did I get here? How did I reach rock bottom again? You were on a good path. You started your New Year's resolution because you were determined to just make this year your year. You listened to all of the motivational videos. You bought all of those tapes. I mean, you even went to the gym and you started working out and you did it just like Nike, for the first few days. Then you missed a day, then a week, and now you're back at the same place you were on December 31st. Only more defeated and upset with yourself and maybe two pounds heavier, and it's only January 24th. I mean, come on you didn't even last one month. Ugh, I can never finish anything you tell yourself as you sit there thinking about your life, looking around sneaking and eating an Oreo, and you're right, you can't finish anything. Why? You just said, and guess what? You just did that. 

I am here to tell you, stop. Stop creating this continuous proclamation about yourself that is not even true. You are so much better than that. Can we try a different approach and see if it could actually work? This is a conversational slap from the universe to wake you up to your true potential, to Un-f yourself and get spectacularly into your life. I love this quote. This quote is from an amazing book called Un-f yourself. This quote allows you to assert your mind and change your mindset. What exactly is a mindset and why do we need it? A mindset is a mental attitude. Our mindset is important because it influences and directly impacts our life. A research study was published in the International Journal of STEM Education, where researchers surveyed 875 students in an organic chemistry course. They surveyed them four points throughout the semester and interviewed a bunch of students about their mindsets and academic experiences. This is why they did it. 

The first problem was, a lot of college students are not successful. This is actually a huge problem because college is supposed to be a public good. College has a responsibility to show why it exists. The extent to which a student views their intelligence, aka mindset as something that can be improved influences their thoughts, behaviors, and ultimately their academic success. For researchers who are working on understanding and promoting student success, understanding how a student's mindset develops can be very useful. They decided to add to the literature because they wanted to gain an understanding as to why and how students' mindsets change. Here are their results. Students viewed their intelligence aka mindset as something stable. This is not a growth mindset, but rather a fixed mindset. 

What's even more alarming is that this belief was even more true in students who persistently struggled in organic chemistry. From analysis of the student's written survey responses to the transcripts from the interviews, the researchers determined that students attributed their beliefs about their intelligence to five different factors, academic experiences, observing peers, deducing logically, taking societal cues and formal learning. The researchers concluded, there is a relationship between mindset and its influence on academic performance. This suggests that academic performance is going to directly influence a student's mindset. The researchers also believed that mindset and academic performance make up something called a positive feedback loop.

Now, I wanted to talk to you guys about a positive feedback loop because it's a little bit different than what we call a negative feedback loop. In life we see a lot of examples of a negative feedback loop. For example, let's say that you are working out and you start to sweat. The sweat is there to cool your body down and get your temperature back to an optimal range. We call that homeostasis. Now, negative feedback does not mean that it's negative or bad. It just means that it's doing the opposite to get back to where it was before. Positive feedback is a lot different we don't really see a lot of positive feedback loop examples except for one that I can remember off the top of my head is in childbirth. Whenever a woman is in labor, her brain is going to release this chemical called oxytocin.

Oxytocin is going to cause the contraction to happen, which goes ahead and pushes the baby further down the birth canal and allows a woman to become more dilated. So one job of positive feedback is only one thing. Positive feedback has only one job. Its goal is to enhance the situation. Think about that, positive feedback, enhancing the situation. Your mindset enhances the situation. In simple terms, elevate your mindset, elevate your performance. The study goes on to show that students' mindsets are influential because they affect a bunch of other things that are not related to thinking. This includes setting the type of goals. Depending on your mindset that is going to determine your performance. Your performance is going to be determined by the type of goal that you set. So if you have a higher thinking mindset, you're going to set a higher goal, which means you are going to perform higher.

They also found that students' mindsets are malleable and appear to change over time. There have been some research interventions that researchers have used to help students develop a growth mindset by doing certain tasks or activities, and they have gotten some really good results. There are two great things that have come out of different studies. One of them was that successful mindset interventions have boosted students' grades and persistence. Another great thing is that it has reduced or eliminated racial achievement gaps. So you might ask yourself, or you might ask me, why do we need to have a better mindset? Studies show that we have over 50,000 thoughts per day. How many of your thoughts are positive? How many of your thoughts were negative? Are you constantly creating a negative monologue about your life? You know what you think and what you say about yourself matters. It actually impacts your quality of life.

You may wonder, how can I enjoy life? How can I chill out and enjoy life? Simple, change your language. Change your language, change your circumstances. Frankenstein said, the harmony between thought and reality can be found in the grammar of the language. Grammar is how our sentences are structured. When you talk to and about yourself better, you live better. You are not enjoying your life or living to your potential because the way how you talk and perceive yourself is diminishing your self-worth. This hurts your self-esteem and confidence, and then eventually you have to be forced to engage in self-love just to show yourself that you are worthy. Isn't that crazy? The way how you see the world is based on your perception? It's not a hundred percent correct. Our thoughts are so irrational. Why on earth would you think that you are not worthy? Why would you not have the confidence to stand up for what you believe in, what you enjoy and how you feel?

How many times have you said to yourself, I'm so stupid. I always mess things up. My life is just over, just because of small mistakes. We never see or even care to see the impact of what we tell ourselves unless if you have children. Have you ever noticed or overheard your child say something negative about themselves simply because you said that very thing about yourself? Do you really want your child to go through life constantly thinking that? I hope not. Think about all the times you've psyched yourself out simply because you thought something was too hard. You brace yourself for something you think happens and then when it comes, you're like, that was it, crazy? Even making your bed, cleaning after yourself doing the dishes, all boring, but guess what? We stopped doing those little things only to come home one day to what looks like a whirlwind of chaos, disgusted, anger and frustration, negative self-talk and repeat.

So here's where I help. Let's assess the situation you're going through. Well, I mean you're already going through it. Life is rough. It's throwing its best curve balls at you. Would you rather go through it and get nothing or would you rather go through it and become someone? Hell, don't ask me that question because you know this can only happen from within you, yes you. You have to do it. How many times have you tried searching for the answer outside of yourself only to be disappointed? How can I enjoy life again? How can I enjoy life alone? Where can I find my happiness? How do I get my happiness back? Simple, decide to enjoy your life. The only way to live a life you love is to live a life you love. You are the one who has to decide to do it. Don't wait too long.

Your life is waiting on you. Pick up the pace. Like I told you earlier, I wouldn't leave you hanging. Here's how you do it. You are going to make a conscious decision to be assertive and purposeful in talking to yourself in a better way. I believe this approach is so powerful because it allows you to take control right here and right now. It's not a positive way of dreaming. One day I will enjoy myself. Instead, we are making a statement, a claim, a fact right here and right now. Let's do a test run. Which one do you like better? A. I am powerful or B, I will be powerful. A wins. Be assertive, take control of the situation. This first podcast episode, ground zero is a foundation that we are going to build upon. You probably feel defeated, worn out, tired, ready to give up, don't.

You are needed. You are wanted, and you are required to live your purpose. Don't believe me. Go ahead and ask three people if you are worthy. I'm sure that they will begin to question why you would ever think such a thing. Are you willing to continue to live a life you accept even though you hate it? I'm not. In fact, I am unwilling to live a life where I cannot be free to express myself. If you are willing to live a life that you can enjoy, actually enjoy, I want you to say this, I am living a great life that I enjoy. How did it feel? Good, huh? Let's try it again. Ready? I am living a great life that I enjoy. You are. You are living a great life that you enjoy. 

You are worthy, you are powerful, you are amazing, and you are willing to change your thoughts from one that controls you and holds you down to one that you are in command and assertive with power and authority. My challenge to you is to choose one statement that you will assert and command over your life today. Something such as I am strong or I am enough can really be powerful whenever we are facing problems. Those problems become opportunities and we start to realize who we are. Change your thoughts, change your perception. Change your world, and you can live the best life you want and enjoy by simply deciding. It doesn't matter what your genetic makeup is or even your upbringing. If you are willing to change your mindset, then that is all you need. 

As I close out, I want you to listen to this amazing three minute video that I got from Chispa Motivation. Thank you for letting me include this in my podcast. I ask that you really listen to it and assert and command your mind. He has an amazing collection of content that you can listen to. I will include all of his information and I want you to go out and be assertive. This was episode one Ground Zero where I laid down the foundation and introduced you and the problem that you were having. My goal is simple. I'm here to guide you in the right direction. You are the one who makes that change happen. You got this. Thank you for listening to a PhD Mommy's mindset. Feel free to subscribe to this series wherever you listen to podcasts. Follow us on Instagram at a PhD mommy or our website@aphdmommy.com. Go and blaze the new world that you have created.

Introducing The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast: Raise Children You Can Respect (And Who Can Respect You Back)

In Episode 19 of The PhD Mommy's Journey, Bridgette dives into the fierce, honest, and heartfelt truth behind Rule 5 of Jordan Peterson's 12 Rules for Life: "Do not let your children do anything that makes you dislike them." This powerful conversation isn't just about parenting—it's about responsibility, emotional regulation, leadership, and legacy.

As a service member and a mom, Bridgette shares what it looks like to raise daughters with love and structure—even when she's thousands of miles away chasing her goals in the Navy and finishing her PhD. She unpacks the weight of generational healing, the pull to overcompensate, and how self-respect and boundaries shape how we parent and who we become.

Episode 19 challenges listeners to rethink what it means to raise children and raise themselves—with fierce love, intentional limits, and emotional maturity.

You'll hear real talk on:

1. Parenting Without Apology
Why loving your kids doesn't mean pleasing them—and how to break free from guilt-based parenting.

2. Emotional Discipline in Leadership and Motherhood
The difference between reacting and responding—and how discipline, not domination, builds trust and growth.

3. Respect is a Two-Way Street
How raising children you admire starts with becoming someone you admire—and why the example you set matters more than the rules you enforce.

4. Overcompensation as a Military Mom
What it feels like to parent from a distance—and how Bridgette wrestles with (and redefines) what it means to be enough.

5. The Power of Support Systems
From family to school systems—how the right village makes it possible to chase your purpose while your children thrive too.

6. Leadership at Home and in the World
Parenting as a leadership model: cultivating self-respect, authority, and strength—both in your home and in your own life.

Key Takeaways:

• You're not failing if you're not always present—your presence is also in your purpose.

• Parenting with structure and boundaries is a gift, not a punishment.

• Emotional regulation is one of the greatest leadership tools you can model for your children.

• Overcompensation isn't the answer—trust, discipline, and support are.

• Respectful parenting starts with self-respect.

 

🎧 Listen and Subscribe to The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast on 🎧

Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Google Podcasts • YouTube 

To Contact Bridgette:

Instagram @Thephdmommylife • https://www.instagram.com/thephdmommylife

Email: thephdmommylife@gmail.com 

If you would like to be a guest and share your story on The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast, please fill out this form.

Link to Dr. Peterson's Book, 12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos

Introducing The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast: Building a Life with Strategy, Self-Worth, and the 1% Rule

In Episode 18, "How to Elevate Your Life — Strategy, Self-Confidence & the 1% Rule," Bridgette unpacks what it truly means to stop comparing yourself to others and start becoming the kind of woman who leads her life with clarity, discipline, and purpose. Inspired by Rule 4 from Jordan Peterson's 12 Rules for Life, this episode explores how small daily improvements can lead to massive personal transformation.

Bridgette reflects on her powerful journey—from not being able to run a quarter of a mile to crushing her fitness goals in Navy training—and how embracing the 1% better mindset has helped her step into alignment, confidence, and purpose-driven living.

Episode 18 helps listeners take radical ownership of their journey through:

1. Turning Comparison into Strategy
Why the only person you should compare yourself to is who you were yesterday—and how that mindset unlocks consistent growth.

2. The Power of the Inner Audit
How to use your internal critic as a feedback tool instead of a source of shame—just like inspecting a home before buying it.

3. Discipline Over Perfection
Why small, sustainable efforts matter more than dramatic overhauls—and how they create real momentum.

4. From Lost to Aligned
Bridgette shares how leaving behind a teaching career, joining the Navy, and facing herself changed everything—from her body to her mindset and her mothering.

5. Focus, Aim, and Alignment
How narrowing your focus helps you see what really matters—and why aiming higher brings deeper meaning to your life.

6. The Self-Responsibility Revolution
What happens when you stop waiting to feel ready and start taking the small steps anyway—no matter how imperfect they feel.

7. Legacy, Alignment, and the Highest Good
How choosing to aim high—beyond superficial desires—shifts your relationship with yourself, others, and the world around you.

 Key Takeaways:

• Small steps lead to lasting change.

• Growth comes from alignment, not pressure.

•  You have the power to elevate—right now, right where you are.
  
  

 

🎧 Listen and Subscribe to The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast on 🎧

Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Google Podcasts • YouTube 

To Contact Bridgette:

Instagram @Thephdmommylife • https://www.instagram.com/thephdmommylife

Email: thephdmommylife@gmail.com 

If you would like to be a guest and share your story on The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast, please fill out this form.

Link to Dr. Peterson's Book, 12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos

 

Introducing The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast: Cultivating Aligned Relationships and Personal Power

In Episode 17, "Make Friends with People Who Want the Best for You," Bridgette explores how powerful it is to intentionally elevate your relationships in a season of personal growth. Inspired by Rule 3 from Jordan Peterson's 12 Rules for Life, this episode unpacks how friendships rooted in alignment—not obligation—can shift your entire mindset, discipline, and direction.

Bridgette shares what it's looked like to walk away from draining relationships, build powerful new friendships during Navy training, and protect her peace while leveling up in her fitness, education, and personal life.

Episode 17 helps listeners reflect on how to protect their energy and embrace aligned connections through:

1. Toxic Loyalty vs. Healthy Connection

   • Recognizing when history is holding you hostage—and how to shift into relationships that honor your evolution.

2. Alignment as the New Standard

   • Choosing friends who match your values, goals, and growth mindset.

3. Letting Go Without Guilt

   • Why outgrowing people doesn't mean abandoning them—it means honoring who you're becoming.

4. Building an Empowered Circle

   • How to intentionally attract supportive, growth-minded relationships that speak life into your next level.

5. 7-Day Relationship Audit Challenge

   • A guided journaling challenge to evaluate your inner circle and make room for alignment.

This bold and freeing episode empowers listeners to honor their boundaries, protect their purpose, and walk boldly into relationships that reflect who they are becoming—not who they were.

Key Takeaways:

• Your circle is either nurturing your power—or draining it.

• You're allowed to grow beyond what's familiar.

• Relationships that align with your peace, purpose, and power are worth prioritizing.

🎧 Listen and Subscribe to The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast on 🎧

Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Google Podcasts • YouTube 

To Contact Bridgette:

Instagram @Thephdmommylife • https://www.instagram.com/thephdmommylife

Email: thephdmommylife@gmail.com 

If you would like to be a guest and share your story on The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast, please fill out this form.

Link to Dr. Peterson's Book, 12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos

Introducing "The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast": Prioritizing Self-Care and Personal Growth 

In Episode 16, "Treat Yourself Like Someone You Are Responsible for Helping," Bridgette shares how radical self-care, discipline, and daily intentionality can change your life. Drawing inspiration from Rule 2 of Dr. Jordan Peterson's 12 Rules for Life, Bridgette opens up about her personal transformation—including completing Navy boot camp, losing over 100 pounds, and progressing toward her PhD proposal defense. She encourages listeners to reframe self-care as a personal responsibility rooted in self-worth and purpose.

Episode 16 helps listeners explore the power of showing up for themselves through:

1. Understanding Self-Neglect

   • Unpacking why we often extend more care to others than ourselves, and how to reverse that pattern through self-worth and intentional living.

2. The Psychological Impact

   • Highlighting research on self-compassion and emotional resilience, and sharing how Bridgette's mindset shifted after embracing her own worth.

3. Implications for Personal Growth and Leadership

   • Discussing how prioritizing self-care empowers leadership, strengthens relationships, and models a healthier lifestyle for others.

4. Practical Tips for Implementation

   • Offering actionable ways to integrate self-care into your life, including boundaries, daily rituals, and compassionate self-talk.

5. 30-Day Self-Care Challenge

   • Inviting listeners to commit to one intentional act of self-care each day for the next 30 days to build habits that honor their value and growth.

This empowering episode highlights the connection between physical stance and mental state, encouraging listeners to stand tall, both physically and mentally, to navigate life's challenges with confidence, grace and resilience.

Key Takeaways:

• Standing up straight with your shoulders back is not just about physical appearance; it's a mindset.

• Adopting a confident posture can improve your mental state and how others perceive you.

• Practical tips for maintaining good posture include regular check-ins, exercise routines, mental rehearsal, and positive affirmations.

🎧 Listen and Subscribe to The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast on 🎧

Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Google Podcasts • YouTube 

To Contact Bridgette:

Instagram @Thephdmommylife • https://www.instagram.com/thephdmommylife

Email: thephdmommylife@gmail.com 

If you would like to be a guest and share your story on The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast, please fill out this form.

Link to Dr. Peterson's Book, 12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos

Introducing "The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast": Embracing Confidence and Strength

In Episode 15, "Stand Up Straight with Your Shoulders Back," Bridgette highlights the importance of adopting a confident posture to transform your mental and emotional well-being. Bridgette delves into the significance of physical posture, drawing from Dr. Jordan Peterson's book "12 Rules for Life," and connecting its role in personal growth, leadership and self-care.

Episode 15 helps listeners understand how adopting a strong and confident posture can positively impact their life by focusing on:

1. The Biological Perspective

   • Exploring how posture affects social status and behavior, with insights from the animal kingdom.

2. The Psychological Impact

   • Discussing the benefits of an assertive posture, supported by research, including a study by Patty Van Cappellen and colleagues showing how expansive and upward postures enhance positive affect.

3. Implications for Personal Growth and Leadership

   • Understanding how a confident posture can improve interactions and set a positive example in leadership roles.

4. Practical Tips for Implementation

   • Providing actionable advice on how to maintain good posture and incorporate self-care into daily routines.

This empowering episode highlights the connection between physical stance and mental state, encouraging listeners to stand tall, both physically and mentally, to navigate life's challenges with confidence, grace and resilience.

Key Takeaways:

• Standing up straight with your shoulders back is not just about physical appearance; it's a mindset.
• Adopting a confident posture can improve your mental state and how others perceive you.
• Practical tips for maintaining good posture include regular check-ins, exercise routines, mental rehearsal, and positive affirmations.

🎧 Listen and Subscribe to The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast on 🎧

Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Google Podcasts • YouTube 

To Contact Bridgette:

Instagram @Thephdmommylife • https://www.instagram.com/thephdmommylife

Email: thephdmommylife@gmail.com 

If you would like to be a guest and share your story on The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast, please fill out this form.

Link to Dr. Peterson's Book, 12 Rules for Life: An Antidote to Chaos

Introducting "The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast": How to Set S.M.A.R.T. Goals to Achieve What YOU Want in Life.

In Episode 14, "How to Set S.M.A.R.T. Goals", Bridgette highlights the importance of goal-setting on becoming a better version of yourself. Bridgette delves into the definition of goals, through the S.M.A.R.T. methodology, connecting the important role goal setting has in motherhood, business and life.

Episode 14 helps listeners how goal-setting helps you achieve anything you want in life by ensuring your goals are:

• Specific
• Measurable
• Achievable
• Relevant
• Time-Bound

This inspiring episode highlights the importance of Kobe Bryant's Mamba Mentality with believing in yourself, personal growth and development, stretching beyond your potential, and working on bettering yourself every single day. 

🔗 S.M.A.R.T. Goal Setting Worksheet

🎧 Listen and Subscribe to The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast on 🎧

Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Google Podcasts • YouTube 

To Contact Bridgette:

Instagram @Thephdmommylife • https://www.instagram.com/thephdmommylife

Email: thephdmommylife@gmail.com 

If you would like to be a guest on The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast, please fill out this form.

Introducing "The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast": How to Start Believing in Yourself

In this episode, "How to Start Believing in Yourself", Bridgette highlights the importance self-efficacy has on becoming a more engaged parent. Bridgette delves into the definition of self-efficacy through the scientific method, connecting the important role each has in motherhood, business and life. Before plunging into the scientific marvels, Bridgette addresses a common feeling among her listeners: the common urge to break free from mediocrity. That, dear friends, is self-efficacy in action. Bridgette shows readers how self-efficacy focuses on believing in your remarkable abilities, conquering challenges and taking the reins of leadership to craft the life you desire. Throughout October, Bridgette has decided to dedicate herself to a remarkable journey of becoming a better mom by incorporating hands-on activities and exciting science projects into daily life. She begins this task through her favorite methodology: the scientific method. Picture messy high chairs and bubbly bathtubs as they explore "Bath Time Physics" and "High Chair Chemistry" by the brilliant Jill Esbaum.

"Bath Time Physics" and "High Chair Chemistry'' by Jill Esbaum, published by Candlewick Press and MIT Press Kids are highly recommended, captivating books that merge playtime with fundamental scientific principles, laying the foundation for future learning. Many research studies emphasize on the significance of picture books, which unfold as vibrant panoramas, painting worlds of wonder and wisdom in a child's eager eyes. They spark imagination, fuel curiosity, and lay the groundwork for literacy, cognitive development, and emotional intelligence. Plus, they provide a delightful way to bond with kids. Bridgette personally uses these books as a mom and a high school biology teacher; she believes these principles are vital and can be taught at any age. Get your copy on Amazon, Kindle, Barnes and Nobles, MIT Press, Candlewick Press, Target, and many other places. 

In the intricate ballet of motherhood, business, and life, play emerges as a rejuvenating melody. This episode highlights the importance of engaging in play, whether with little ones or as a personal respite, revitalizes the spirit, ignites creativity, and restores equilibrium in the mosaic of responsibilities. It's the reminder of joy amidst chaos, the nudge towards self-care, and the buoyant raft amidst life's adventures. Bridgette invites you to imagine applying the scientific method to your own daily life. As you encounter problems and solutions, you view the world as a way to conduct mini-experiments to better navigate challenges systematically, reinforcing self-belief, and making mothers even more awesome. In the whirlwind of life, Bridgette encourages parents to pause and immerse themselves intentionally in their children's world. She also stresses the importance of encouraging their curiosity, exploration of the world and being their companions in discovery and life. By doing so, they lay the cornerstone for critical thinking, problem-solving, and a lifelong love for learning.

🎧 Listen and Subscribe to The PhD Mommy's Journey Podcast on 🎧

Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Google Podcasts • YouTube 

To Contact Bridgette:

Instagram @Thephdmommylife • https://www.instagram.com/thephdmommylife

Email: thephdmommylife@gmail.com