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In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Ashley Dash, human resources expert, executive coach, and creator of Healing Work Hurt, to talk about the workplace experiences we carry with us—and how we can begin to heal from them. We dive into how work hurt can show up through Sunday-night dread, micromanagement, unemployment, difficult coworkers, toxic environments, and even our own choices at work. Ashley also shares her incredible journey from unemployment and financial hardship to accepting a global human resources role in Japan. One of my favorite takeaways from this conversation is that your job title is not your identity. A difficult work experience may affect how you see yourself, but it does not determine your worth, your capabilities, or what is possible for you next. If you've been questioning yourself because of something that happened at work, feeling stuck in a role that no longer fits, or discounting yourself before applying for a new opportunity, I hope this conversation reminds you that where you are is not always indicative of where you're going. In this episode, we discuss: What work hurt is and how it can affect you The signs that you may be carrying unresolved workplace pain Why Sunday-night dread shouldn't automatically be considered normal Separating your identity and self-worth from your job title Taking accountability for your choices without blaming yourself for everything Being honest about where you are and what you truly want Protecting your dreams from other people's fears and opinions Applying for opportunities even when you don't feel fully qualified How Dr. Ashly went from unemployment to working in Japan Asking for mentorship and allowing others to support your growth Moving through the messy middle when your circumstances haven't changed yet Trusting that a difficult season does not have to become your permanent story CONNECT WITH DR. ASHLEY DASH Website: drashleydash.com Resume ATM: resumeatm.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drashleydash/ CONNECT WITH ARIEL VAUGHAN Website: itstimetobeyou.com Instagram: @beyoutifulchick and @itstimetobeyoupodcast

Have you ever felt like you were meant for something more, but kept questioning whether your voice really mattered? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Marcea Whitaker, physician, life and business architect, international speaker, and author, to talk about what it really means to unmute yourself. We dive into overcoming imposter syndrome, trusting yourself, leaving relationships and environments that no longer serve you, and why your story matters—even if someone else is already sharing a similar message. One of my favorite takeaways from this conversation is that confidence doesn't come before taking action. Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is choose yourself before you feel ready. If you've been playing small, waiting for permission, or questioning whether your voice matters, I hope this conversation reminds you that you're capable of so much more than you realize. In this episode, we discuss: What it really means to "unmute yourself" Why your story matters and how it can become your purpose Overcoming people-pleasing and learning to trust yourself The difference between clean pain and dirty pain Why confidence comes from taking action—not waiting to feel ready Moving through your comfort zone to experience real growth How to stop waiting for external validation and start making decisions for yourself Taking empowered action to create the life you want Why choosing yourself can change everything Connect with Dr. Marcea Whitaker Website: https://drmarcea.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmarcea Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marcea.whitaker LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lifecoachmarcea/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@DrMarcea Free Stage Builder Bootcamp: https://drmarcea.com/stagebuilder Free Resource If trusting yourself is something you're working on, download my FREE Trust Yourself Guide to start building confidence from the inside out. Click here Connect with Ariel Vaughan Website: itstimetobeyou.com Instagram: @beyoutifulchick and @itstimetobeyoupodcast

What if your body has been trying to tell you something all along? We often think of stress as something that lives in our minds, but it can show up in our bodies too. Tight shoulders, headaches, jaw tension, fatigue, or chronic pain may be more than just physical symptoms—they could be signals that something deeper needs your attention. In this episode, I'm joined by health coach and pain management specialist Caryn Ranney to explore the connection between stress, emotions, people-pleasing, and physical pain. We discuss why so many of us ignore our body's signals, how stress can manifest physically, and why learning to check in with yourself is one of the most important forms of self-care. Whether you're navigating chronic pain or simply feeling overwhelmed by life, this conversation is a reminder that your body isn't working against you—it's communicating with you. In this episode, we discuss: Why stress and emotions can contribute to physical pain The connection between people-pleasing and physical tension What the biopsychosocial model of pain means—and why it matters How to build awareness of your body's signals Practical ways to check in with yourself throughout the day Why slowing down can actually help you move forward Connect with Caryn Ranney Website: ranneycoaching.co Instagram: @ranneycoaching Connect with Ariel Vaughan Website: itstimetobeyou.com Instagram: @beyoutifulchick and @itstimetobeyoupodcast

Have you ever looked in the mirror and felt like you've lost yourself? Maybe your body has changed. Maybe your life has changed. Maybe you've spent so much time taking care of everyone else that you've stopped paying attention to what makes you feel confident, comfortable, and like you. In this episode, I sit down with Crystal Napier, image consultant, stylist, professional bra fitter, and founder of Renee's Boutique, for a conversation about confidence, body image, authenticity, and why style is about so much more than clothes. Crystal shares her personal journey of navigating body image struggles, growing up feeling like she needed to hide parts of herself, finding confidence as a young leader, and learning how to embrace who she is through every season of life. We also talk about: • The connection between style and self-confidence • Why so many women struggle to feel comfortable in their bodies • Balancing authenticity and professionalism • Learning to appreciate your body exactly as it is today One of my favorite takeaways from this conversation is that confidence isn't something we magically wake up with one day. It's something we cultivate through the way we speak to ourselves, care for ourselves, and show up for ourselves. If you've been feeling disconnected from yourself, hiding behind clothes that don't feel like you anymore, or simply ready to show up with more confidence, this episode is for you. Connect with Crystal Napier Website: ReneesBoutiqueLLC.com Instagram: @ReneesBoutiqueLLC Facebook: Renees Boutique LLC LinkedIn: Crystal Napier Ready for more clarity and confidence? Connect with me, Ariel Vaughan: Instagram: @beyoutifulchick Instagram: @itstimetobeyoupodcast For more, visit: itstimetobeyou.com Schedule your complimentary clarity session here: https://calendly.com/arielbv/be-you-breakthrough-session

What if your life changed the moment you stopped trying to make everyone else happy? In today's episode, I sit down with Amy Hager — messaging and marketing mentor, speaker, and overall incredible human — for a conversation that goes far beyond business. Amy shares how racing go-karts at nine years old taught her about visibility, resilience, relationship building, and showing up even when you don't win. From there, we dive into people pleasing, perfectionism, authenticity, boundaries, vulnerability, and learning how to stop carrying responsibility for everyone else's emotions. This episode is full of honest reflections, mindset shifts, and reminders that you do not have to be perfect to be impactful. We also talk about: Why no one "bats 1,000" and why that's okay Learning to focus on what you can control The emotional and physical cost of living out of alignment How to know what's yours to carry — and what isn't Setting boundaries with family and difficult relationships Why your message should attract and repel The power of "I am" statements and asking yourself: "What do I stand for?" Showing up authentically in business and life Why vulnerability doesn't mean being an open book The importance of reflection, self-awareness, and self-trust One of my favorite takeaways from this conversation is the reminder that authenticity is not about being perfect — it's about being honest with yourself and allowing yourself to evolve. Amy brings such a grounded, refreshing perspective to this conversation, and I know so many of you are going to feel seen by what she shares. Connect with Amy: Facebook: Amy Hager LinkedIn: Amy Hager, CAE-IOM Connect with me, Ariel Vaughan: Instagram: @beyoutifulchick Instagram: @itstimetobeyoupodcast For more, visit: itstimetobeyou.com

*]:pointer-events-auto [content-visibility:auto] supports-[content-visibility:auto]:[contain-intrinsic-size:auto_100lvh] R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id= "request-69fc010c-87a8-83ea-839b-89315b4928c0-13" data-testid= "conversation-turn-16" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-turn= "assistant"> This is a deeply vulnerable and important conversation. Before listening, please note that this episode includes discussions of trauma, abuse, and human trafficking.  In today's episode, I'm joined by Gwen Cassady, who shares parts of her story in an effort to raise awareness, advocate for change, and help others feel less alone in their own experiences. This conversation explores what it means to survive, to rebuild, and to find purpose after experiencing unimaginable hardship. We talk about how people pleasing can develop as a survival response, the impact trauma can have on self-worth and identity, and what it looks like to begin choosing yourself after years of putting others first. We cover some heavy topics in this episode, but they are important to discuss for awareness, change and moving forward. Inside this episode: How people pleasing can begin as a survival pattern The long-term impact of trauma on self-worth and identity What it means to rebuild your life after loss and instability The role of resilience and perseverance in healing Learning to use your voice after being silenced Turning pain into purpose and advocacy Learn more about Gwen Cassady's work and advocacy: Blue Mosiac https://www.facebook.com/gwen.cassady/ www.instagram.com/gwen.cassady/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/gwen-cassady-14944124/ Connect with me, Ariel Vaughan: Instagram: @beyoutifulchick Instagram: @itstimetobeyoupodcast For more, visit: itstimetobeyou.com

In this episode, I'm joined by Kay Ford, who I've known since we were kids, and we dive into what it really looks like to trust yourself, take a leap, and build a life that feels aligned, even when it's uncomfortable. From walking away from expectations, to moving across the world, to pursuing her dreams, Kay shares her journey of learning to quiet outside noise and finally listen to herself. We talk about the fear that comes with making big decisions, the pressure to do what's expected, and how easy it is to lose trust in yourself. We explore self confidence, choosing yourself and following your passions. If you've been feeling stuck, unsure, or afraid of making the "wrong" move… this conversation will meet you there. Connect with Kay: Instagram: @kayfordva Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KayFordVA/ Website: www.kayfordva.com Connect with me, Ariel Vaughan: Instagram: @beyoutifulchick Instagram: @itstimetobeyoupodcast For more, visit: itstimetobeyou.com

This is my 100th episode… and it's not what I thought it would be. I felt pressure for this to be something big and impactful, and instead I found myself overthinking, procrastinating, and getting in my own way. So this episode isn't perfect—but it is honest. In this episode, I'm sharing what this journey has really looked like, how perfectionism and people pleasing have shown up, and what it means to keep going anyway. We talk about redefining your "best self," and how choosing yourself can feel uncomfortable and unfamiliar at first. But hard doesn't mean wrong. Being yourself isn't something you always just know—it's something you uncover. And that process will feel messy and imperfect. This is your reminder to stop waiting, get out of your head, and take the next step… even if it's not perfect. Connect with me, Ariel Vaughan: Instagram: @beyoutifulchick Instagram: @itstimetobeyoupodcast For more, visit: itstimetobeyou.com

This episode is a real and honest conversation about something a lot of us avoid—admitting what we actually want. When you've spent years people pleasing, following expectations, and doing what keeps you accepted, it can feel really uncomfortable to pause and ask yourself, what do I want? And even more uncomfortable to answer it honestly. In this episode, I'm sharing my own struggle with setting goals, because the truth is, owning what you want comes with risk. It means you might not get it. It means you might have to wait. It might even mean being alone or giving things up. But avoiding what you want doesn't protect you—it just keeps you stuck. This episode discusses: Why people pleasers struggle to name what they want The fear of setting goals and not reaching them Letting go of the idea that there's a "right" path How to start building self-trust through honest, small steps This episode is your reminder that you don't need to have it all figured out to start being honest with yourself. You just need to be willing to tell yourself the truth—and take one step from there. Connect with me, Ariel Vaughan: Instagram: @beyoutifulchick Instagram: @itstimetobeyoupodcast For more, visit: itstimetobeyou.com

As people pleasers, we're often incredibly reliable for everyone else — but not for ourselves. In this episode, we talk about why keeping promises to yourself matters more than you think, how self-trust is built through follow-through, and why the smallest commitments are often the most powerful. This isn't about discipline for productivity. It's about honoring your needs, rebuilding trust with yourself, and learning that choosing yourself is safe. Key Takeaways Self-trust is built by keeping your word to yourself Small promises matter more than big goals Motivation fades, but discipline is built through follow-through Breaking promises creates an identity story — and so does keeping them Choosing yourself may feel uncomfortable, but it builds self-respect One kept promise is enough to start changing the narrative   Connect with me, Ariel Vaughan: Instagram: @beyoutifulchick Instagram: @itstimetobeyoupodcast For more, visit: itstimetobeyou.com

New Year's Eve can feel heavy. Or meaningful. Or like nothing at all. But for a lot of high achievers and people pleasers, this time of year brings pressure, comparison, and the quiet question of "Did I do enough?" In this episode, I talk about reflecting on the year in a way that feels supportive instead of performative. Not through highlight reels, productivity metrics, or goals you should have—but by honoring your real life. The small moments. The hard seasons. The ways you survived, rested, and chose yourself, even when no one else saw it. This is an invitation to move into the next season of your life without forcing a "new you," without guilt, and without rushing yourself. You don't owe anyone a self-improvement project. You get to decide what matters, when you begin, and how you move forward. Key Takeaways Your life doesn't need to look impressive to be meaningful Progress can look like rest, survival, and quiet boundaries Reflection doesn't have to be public or productive—it's for you You don't owe anyone goals just because it's January Feelings and intuition are valid guides for what comes next You are not behind, late, or missing your chance You get to decide what matters and when you begin   Connect with me, Ariel Vaughan: Instagram: @beyoutifulchick Instagram: @itstimetobeyoupodcast For more, visit: itstimetobeyou.com

This episode is an honest, vulnerable reflection on a race that was emotional, challenging, humbling, and surprisingly complicated to process afterward. From the weight of six months of training, to the mental battles that showed up mid-race, to the quiet grief of missing a goal you worked so hard for, I'm sharing what it was really like — both during the miles and after the medal. I talk about the pressure we put on ourselves as high achievers, how easy it is to downplay our accomplishments, and why missing a goal can make it feel impossible to be proud of ourselves. This isn't a story about a perfect race or a shiny outcome. It's about learning how to sit with disappointment without letting it erase everything you've done. If you've ever worked toward something for a long time, only to feel underwhelmed, empty, or critical of yourself when it's over, this episode is for you. In this episode, we explore: The emotional roller coaster of marathon training and race day What it feels like when your body and mind start to shut down mid-goal Why missing a goal can feel like failure, even when you accomplish something huge How people pleasers and overachievers struggle to receive praise The tendency to rush to the next goal instead of honoring the one you just reached Learning to hold disappointment and pride at the same time A gentle reminder: You don't have to earn pride by being perfect. You don't have to hit every goal for your effort to matter. And you don't need to move on so quickly that you miss your own growth. It's time to own your accomplishments. It's time to be YOU! Connect with me, Ariel Vaughan: Instagram: @beyoutifulchick Instagram: @itstimetobeyoupodcast For more, visit: itstimetobeyou.com

Stop waiting for the perfect plan and start taking imperfect action. In this episode, I'm sharing the hard truth about avoidance, overthinking, and the pressure to get everything just right. If you've ever waited for the "perfect energy," the "perfect mood," or the "perfect plan" before taking action, you're not alone. This episode discusses how uncomfortable tasks feel impossible, how procrastination fuels guilt and shame, and what happens when we wait so long that opportunities slip away. If you struggle with perfectionism, high expectations, or the fear of looking silly, this episode is for you. In this episode: Why waiting for the "right energy" keeps us stuck How perfectionism quietly steals time and opportunity Guilt and shame that comes from procrastination It's time to stop waiting. It's time to take imperfect action. It's time to be YOU! Connect with me, Ariel Vaughan: Instagram: @beyoutifulchick Instagram: @itstimetobeyoupodcast For more, visit: itstimetobeyou.com

Letting go is hard, and it's necessary. In this episode, we're talking about the things we hold on to even when they're no longer serving us — stuff, relationships, control and expectations. If you're someone who tends to hold on "just in case," because you don't want to disappoint anyone, or you don't feel deserving of more, this episode is for you. You'll learn: ✨ Why letting go is necessary before receiving more ✨ The fears that keep us stuck (and how to move through them) ✨ Five key areas to start releasing — today ✨ How letting go can benefit you and the people around you Connect with me, Ariel Vaughan: Instagram: @beyoutifulchick Instagram: @itstimetobeyoupodcast For more, visit: itstimetobeyou.com

Do you ever feel like you have to earn your worth through achievements, approval, or perfection? Do you tie your value to how much you do for others, or how well you perform? In this episode, I dive into the difference between self-love and self-worth, and why true fulfillment can't exist without a deep belief that you are enough, just as you are. I share my own struggles with wanting to belong and how people-pleasing, perfectionism, and overachieving left me chasing validation instead of feeling worthy. We'll also explore the connection between worthiness and fulfillment — and how to rebuild your belief in yourself from the inside out. You'll learn: Why worthiness isn't as easy as saying "I'm worthy" — and how to build that belief over time What makes self-worth so hard for people pleasers, perfectionists, and high achievers The real cost of tying your worth to achievement or approval Simple ways to strengthen your self-worth every day The power of surrounding yourself with people who remind you who you are If you've ever struggled to feel "enough," this episode will remind you that you don't have to prove, perform, or please to be worthy — you already are. Connect with me, Ariel Vaughan: Instagram: @beyoutifulchick Instagram: @itstimetobeyoupodcast For more, visit: timetobeyoupodcast.com