Stress Therapy with Cheri Flake: Meditation & Stress Relief for Real Life

Епизоде

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  Back to School? I CAN Believe It! 21.08.2026 19мин

  Every August the same emails start rolling in. I can't believe it's back to school. I can't believe summer's over. I can't believe it's fall already. And I always think, why can't anybody believe it? Back to school comes after summer every single year.What's not to believe? In this episode I talk about time delusion, which is real, and why it hits differently for people who meditate. When my kids were little, everyone told me it would fly by. It didn't. Now I've got a senior on my hands and everyone is telling me this year will be a blink, and I still don't think it will be. Not because I'm special, but because I've been practicing being here. You get better at what you practice. If you practice stillness, you get good at stillness. If you practice scrolling, well, you get good at that too, which is probably why everybody walking into my office lately is telling me they have attention problems. I believe them.There's a rant about email in here. Fair warning. I stand by it.We also meditate together, so find a comfortable seat before you press play if you can. It's a simple belly breath practice, nothing fancy, just you and your breath and the moment you're in. Your breath is always your way back. The retreat sponsorshipSomething happened this month that has never happened in nineteen retreats. A past retreat attendee put down a deposit for our September 2026 mountain retreat and then couldn't make it. Her deposit was fully refundable, and instead of taking it back she asked me to give it to someone who wants to come but is balking at the price. So there's a $250 sponsorship sitting here. And there's already a sale on the website, $100 or $150 off depending on which room you pick. Stack them and you're looking at up to $400 off. You don't have to prove anything. There's no application, no criteria, no explaining yourself to me. New roof, bad timing, tight month, whatever it is, I don't need to know. You just have to want to come. If you want it, you got it. Just let me know. Connect with me Instagram: @thestresstherapistTwitter: @stresstherapyWebsite: ilovetherapy.com for retreats, meditation, yoga, and everything else If you live in Georgia and you're thinking about becoming a client, head to the website to sign up for a free face to face consultation. And at the very least, get on the mailer so you don't miss a thing. Until next time, have a lovely, lovely day. Produced and edited by Owen Flake.
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  Bliss Blips 01.07.2026 22мин

  Hey beautiful people! What if you didn't have to lure anything into this moment — no worry, no anxiety, no "hurry up and get to the next thing" — and what if the good stuff started showing up on its own? In this mini meditation episode, I talk about taking custody of your own consciousness, getting out of the hurry-up cycle, and learning to just sit in right now. There's only one Now, baby, and it's right here. Stick around for the little guided meditation at the end. In this episode:The "hurry up" trap — how we rush through every single moment to get to the next one, only to rush through that one tooWherever you go, there you are: why nothing actually happens in the past or the future, only right nowEckhart Tolle's simplest doorway into the present — just ask yourself, "Am I still breathing?"Puppies versus politics — choosing what you let into your moment, being for peace instead of against warBliss blips: those little unprovoked blips of bliss that show up for no reason at all, and why they're tied straight to your meditation practiceA short guided meditation using a soft drishti, an environmental scan, and the Om Shanti mantraMentions and shoutouts:Joe Dispenza and the retreat that stuck with meWherever You Go, There You Are (I'm pretty sure that's Jon Kabat-Zinn)Eckhart Tolle, Yogananda, Dan Siegel's "flip your lid," and Mother Teresa's "I won't march against war, but I'll march for peace"The Vedas on life as a show we get to watchSeptember retreat at ilovetherapy.com with Sonic Yogi and an amazing Atlanta cellist joining usIf you've ever had a bliss blip, I want to hear about it — email me at [email protected] (it's Cheri with a C — wasn't my idea). And come meditate with us at ilovetherapy.com. Connect with me @thestresstherapist on Instagram and @stresstherapy on Twitter. Georgia residents — book a free consultation at thestresstherapist.com. Produced and edited by Owen Flake
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  How to Be Your Own Savior 19.05.2026 15мин

  Graduation season is here, and Cheri has a message for every new grad that she wishes she'd heard at 22 instead of figuring out the hard way: nobody is coming to save you. Not your parents, not your therapist, not the perfect partner, not your followers. And once you really get that, it's not depressing — it's the most freeing thing in the world. In this quickie episode, Cheri unpacks what it actually looks like to show up for yourself. She talks about why obsessing over how you look to attract the "right" person is a losing game (spoiler: all the dudes look the same after 60 anyway), why disappointment is almost always a sign you were outsourcing your wellbeing, and how taking 100% responsibility for your life is where the magic actually starts. She also gets into the social media trap — how scrolling through someone else's feed means you're paying attention to their agenda instead of your own — and makes the case for being the master and commander of your own attention. You don't have to record your life. You don't have to report on it. The quietest lives can be the richest ones. The episode wraps with a short seated meditation on letting thoughts come and go without judgment, plus a homework assignment: next time you're standing in line at the grocery store or waiting at the dentist, leave the phone in your pocket. Just stand there. Notice what you're thinking. That's it. It used to be normal. We've lost it. Time to get it back. A few things Cheri wants you to walk away with:You are the person you've been waiting for. Be her. Be him.Pick the kindest partner. Looks fade, kindness compounds.Walk away from people who aren't bringing out your best — no animosity, no diagnosis, just go.Disappointment = you were relying on something outside yourself. Take that as data.Sitting and doing nothing is not lazy. It's a skill, and it's becoming a rare one.Connect with Cheri: Instagram: @thestresstherapist Twitter: @stresstherapy Retreats and offerings: ilovetherapy.com Georgia residents — book a free consultation at thestresstherapist.com Produced and edited by Owen Flake.
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  Don't Own the Diagnosis 02.05.2026 10мин

  Hey beautiful people! It's Maycember — that wild stretch of end-of-school-year chaos and springtime new beginnings. Instead of piling more onto your plate, I'm sharing a few tiny cognitive tweaks that can shift everything, plus a quick moment of stillness to get you through. I also open up about a recent scary diagnosis and why I'm refusing to own it. Rare but possible, baby. In this episode:Why you should never "own" a diagnosis (mental or physical) — the language we use shapes our identity and our healingThree cognitive flips that change everything: "I have to" becomes "I get to," "what if" becomes "even if," and the quiet magic of "wouldn't it be nice if…"A 16-second bliss break you can do anywhere — shoutout to my friend Davidji for this oneMentions and shoutouts:Catch Stress Therapy the show on New Reality TV (Roku, Apple TV, Fire TV)Huge congrats to the Chamblee High School varsity tennis team heading to state finalsStanford is studying energy healers and their effect on cancer cells — science is catching up to the woo wooSeptember 23–27 retreat with a sale running this week at ilovetherapy.comIf you spot a "Rare But Possible" t-shirt out there, please send it my wayConnect with me @thestresstherapist on Instagram and @stresstherapy on Twitter. Georgia residents — book a free consultation at ilovetherapy.com.Produced and edited by Owen Flake
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  Nobody Ever Says "I Shouldn't Have Listened to My Gut" 15.04.2026 29мин

  Hey, beautiful people. Let's talk about intuition — that knowing in your gut that you can't quite explain but you absolutely cannot ignore. In this episode, I'm sharing the full story of how I spent months smelling smoke before my office actually caught fire, predicted the flood that came after, and what all of that taught me about trusting the voice inside that doesn't speak in words. We're getting into why meditation is the single best thing you can do to sharpen your intuition, how to tell the difference between ego noise and real guidance, and why "listen to the listener" is the most important thing anyone's ever said to me at a silent retreat. Plus we do a beautiful guided meditation together — heart center breathing up through the third eye — to help you connect with that wise, divine, knowing part of yourself. Because you already know everything you need to know. You just have to get quiet enough to hear it. 🧘‍♀️ 💡 3 Key TakeawaysIntuition isn't reserved for psychics or special people — it's in all of us. Meditation is what turns up the volume. The more you sit, the more available your wise self becomes.If the voice you're hearing is mean, identity-based, or ego-driven ("you're a bad person"), that's not intuition — that's your ego throwing a fit. Real intuition tends to arrive quietly, from nowhere, and it doesn't attack you.Nobody ever says "I shouldn't have listened to my gut." That alone tells you everything you need to know about how valuable this is.🔥 Episode HighlightsThe full fire premonition story — six months of smelling smoke, middle-of-the-night office checks, a husband who thought I was losing it, and the call from State Farm that proved I wasn'tMy six-year-old telling the police her mommy knew the office would burn down (great for the insurance claim, thanks kid)Predicting the flood days later — and pulling out every piece of paper and fabric just in timeWhy the Waze vs. your gut dilemma is the most relatable intuition test there isA psychiatrist who couldn't wrap his head around acupressure — and how far we've come since then with mind-body-soul connectionThe monk at a silent retreat who said "listen to the listener" and completely rewired my brainA guided heart center to third eye breathing meditation📣 Mentions & References🧠 "Listen to the Listener" — the teaching from a silent retreat that changed everything about how I understand intuition🧘 Heart Center to Third Eye Meditation — a breathing visualization connecting your heart space to your place of knowing💆 Somatic Work — body-based healing and why you can't throw a stick at the internet without hitting that word right now🏥 Chinese Medicine / Acupressure — thousands of years of wisdom we chose to ignore, and we're finally catching up👦 My son's take on therapy — "You think everything affects your mental" — yeah buddy, because it does✅ Try This WeekNext time you get a gut feeling — even a small one, like which way to turn — follow it. Then write it down. Start tracking when your intuition shows up and what it's telling you.Sit for 10 minutes a day this week. Just breathe. The more still you get, the louder that inner voice becomes.Ask yourself: is this thought ego or intuition? If it's attacking your identity, it's ego. If it arrived from nowhere and feels calm but certain, pay attention.🏡 Hang With Me🧘 Retreats — ilovetherapy.com, click on Retreats. Meditation, yoga, and people who get it.💌 thestresstherapist.com — therapy, retreats, and all the things📲 @thestresstherapist on Instagram | @stresstherapy on Twitter🎙️ Produced and edited by Owen Flake.
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  How Your Ego Hijacks Your Meditation (And How to Take Back Control) 18.03.2026 33мин

  Okay, y'all. Your ego has been lying to you — and it's really good at it. In this episode, I'm breaking down the three sneaky ways your ego pulls you right out of your meditation practice every single time: time, body, and environment. We're talking fake sore throats, alarming thoughts about whether you left the front door open, and the "brilliant idea" trap that your ego absolutely loves to use on you. I'll also walk you through a gorgeous flower meditation using the mantra Aham Brahmasmi — because it's time to remind that divine, holy self of yours who's actually in charge. Spoiler: it's not your ego. You are the boss. Let's go. 🌸 💡 3 Key Learning PointsYour ego knows your weaknesses — time, body discomfort, and your to-do list — and it will use all of them to pull you off your cushion. Knowing that is half the battle.That sore throat, achy knee, or urgent thought to check the front door? It might be 100% your ego. Real but not real — but still real. You'll get it when you hear it.The mantra "This is all I'm supposed to be doing" isn't just motivation — it's ego defense. Use it.📣 Mentions & Shout-Outs🧠 Mantra of the episode: Aham Brahmasmi — "I am Brahman. I am the divine. I am connected to cosmic consciousness."🌸 Flower Meditation — A visualization practice for gently setting your ego's interruptions aside, petal by petal.💪 The Cheri Flake Willpower Challenge — 40 days of "I will" and "I won't" — a real-life lesson in what your body will fake to get you to quit.🍬 Hall's Cherry Cough Drop Gate — Possibly the most relatable addiction confession ever recorded.🧘 David G (davidg.com) — Cheri's beloved meditation teacher and the keeper of the Aham Brahmasmi mantra.🏡 Retreats with Cheri — Outdoor saunas, hot tubs, sound healing, group hypnotherapy, yin yoga, all-inclusive, zero dishes. Yes please.💌 thestresstherapist.com — Info on therapy, retreats, and joining the stress-free crew.📲 Follow Cheri: @thestresstherapist on Instagram | @stresstherapy on TwitterProduced and edited by Owen Flake.
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  Proof That There's Nothing Wrong With You (Even If You Think There Is) 11.02.2026 29мин

  Okay, y’all. Buckle up for a full-body reminder: there is nothing wrong with you. In this episode, I’m throwing down the truth about judgment (yours and everyone else’s), ego meltdowns, pink hair stereotypes, and what happens when you finally shut up long enough to hear what’s going on in your own head. We get real about red pepper anxiety, the silent retreat that changed me, and the quote that’s been living rent-free in my brain: “No one will ever love you the way you want to be loved… because that’s your job.” Spoiler: there’s also a blue breath meditation to clear out your throat chakra so you can speak your truth without all the noise. It’s part pep talk, part truth bomb, and all heart. Let’s go. 💡 3 Key Learning PointsYou’re the only one watching your red pepper game. Everyone else is busy with their own garlic.If you think others are judging you, check your own mirror. We tend to see in others what we’re doing ourselves.Let the ego talk—but don’t let it drive. You’re more than your opinions, your comparisons, and your raking style.📣 Mentions & Shout-Outs🎬 Wayne’s World – Cheri’s forever favorite (and a reminder that taste doesn’t have to be cool to be true).🧠 Quote of the day: “No one will ever love you the way you want to be loved… because that’s your job.”🧘‍♀️ Silent Retreat Stories – Featuring: raking epiphanies, bug goggles, and red pepper enlightenment.🎙️ Awaken Your Inner Awesomeness by Melissa Oatman – Fellow pink hair goddess and podcaster.💇‍♀️ Pink Hair as Botox – Cheri’s hairdresser said it best.🎤 Nancy Wilson from Heart – More pink hair legends.🎞️ The Incredible Shrinking Woman starring Lily Tomlin – Yes, we went there.✨ Chakra Talk – Meditation focused on the throat chakra using the “Hum” mantra.💌 ilovetherapy.com – Info on therapy, retreats, and joining the stress-free crew.📲 Follow Cheri: @hestresstherapist on Instagram | @stresstherapy on Twitter
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  Be Still & Know: Why You Need a Retreat 21.01.2026 30мин

  ✨ Episode Summary In this raw and hilarious episode, Cheri Flake (a.k.a. The Stress Therapist) lays it all out about meditation retreats—why they matter, what actually happens, and why silent retreats are the real game-changer. From ego flare-ups to full-on hornet attacks, Cheri shares stories from the cushion with her signature honesty and wit. She also breaks down why most retreats miss the mark after you leave—and how hers are built to help you make meditation a lifelong habit. There’s even a short guided yes/no body wisdom meditation to help you decide if a retreat is calling your name. 🧘 Three Key Learning PointsSilent retreats aren’t quiet escapes—they’re wake-up calls. They show you your mind, your habits, and how to finally befriend yourself.Cheri’s retreats focus on what happens after. You’ll learn how to actually keep meditating once you’re home—no guilt, no stress, no BS.Even imperfect retreats are transformational. Whether it’s a hurricane or a hornet sting, every moment is the practice.💬 Mentions & Shout-Outs🧘‍♀️ Southern Dharma Retreat Center – Cheri’s favorite silent retreat spot in NC🔊 Sonic Yogi – Providing sound healing at upcoming retreats📿 Jack Kornfield, Sharon Salzberg, David Chernikoff – Legendary retreat teachers🧱 The Brick – A digital detox device Cheri swears by📖 Yogaville – The unexpectedly serious retreat center where it all began🌀 That Time a Hurricane Hit the Retreat – Chaos + enlightenment💕 “Boyfriend Monk” Moment – A hilarious silent retreat crush story💌 Come Retreat With Me – Details at ilovetherapy.com🎧 Produced & Edited by: Owen Flake🎙️ Hosted by: Cheri Flake, The Stress Therapist
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  New Year, Real You 07.01.2026 32мин

  Episode Summary: In this heartfelt classic, Cheri Flake (aka the Stress Therapist) returns with timeless wisdom to help you rethink New Year’s resolutions—for good. With her signature mix of humor, honesty, and soul, Cheri shares why the January 1st “fresh start” fantasy sets us up to fail—and what to do instead. You'll learn her favorite fill-in-the-blank method for long-term goal setting, how to actually feel good about your goals (so your brain wants to do them), and why the whole year—not just one day—is magical. Bonus? A deeply soothing guided meditation featuring the mantra “Om” to help you embody your desires from the inside out. 💫 🧠 3 Key Learning Points:January 1st isn’t magical—you are. Sustainable change happens gradually, not in a flash. Stop waiting for a perfect day and start imperfectly now.Feel good = real change. If you feel bad about your goal, your brain thinks you don’t want it. Learn how to trick it into wanting transformation.Chunk it down. Use monthly check-ins and micro-goals to build big dreams into your real life without overwhelm or burnout.📣 Mentions & Shout-Outs:🧘 Upcoming Workshop: From Resolution to Routine – Jan 17, 2026 at Vista Yoga in Atlanta.🌴 Beach Retreat: March on beautiful Jekyll Island – sign up at ilovetherapy.com.🧵 Natural Life: Cheri’s favorite cozy brand – naturallife.com. "You can always change your mind" tee makes a cameo.🎵 Sonic Yogi: Provides the dreamy music during the meditation segment.✉️ Email List: Jump on it at ilovetherapy.com so you “don’t stress or miss one thing.”🎙️ Produced and edited by Owen Flake.💖 Hosted with heart by Cheri Flake, your Stress Therapist.
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  Holiday Stress Isn’t Mandatory 24.12.2025 35мин

  The holidays don’t magically create more time — but they do give us an opportunity to choose how we spend our energy. In this episode, Cheri Flake shares practical, compassionate ways to reduce holiday stress by setting boundaries, saying no without guilt, and intentionally choosing joy. Drawing from her 25+ years as a psychotherapist, Cheri explores why over-scheduling leads to burnout, how mindfulness can transform even the most dreaded holiday tasks, and why presence — not perfection — is the real gift of the season. This episode also includes a guided loving-kindness meditation to help you reconnect with peace, abundance, and love during a busy time of year. ✨ In this episode, you’ll learn:How to decide what to say yes and no to during the holidaysWhy complaining increases stress — and what to do insteadSimple mindfulness practices for shopping, gifting, and family gatheringsCreative, thoughtful gift-giving ideas (even if it’s not your love language)How being present can reduce anxiety, irritability, and overwhelmA short, heart-centered meditation to reset your nervous system🧘‍♀️ Mentioned in this episode:Weekly Meditate & Restore Yoga with Cheri at Vista Yoga (Atlanta)Upcoming Beach Retreat at Jekyll IslandSeptember meditation & yoga retreat (perfect gift idea!)📬 Stay Connected:Email Cheri to receive the Holiday Gift Guide & join the mailing list:[email protected]: thestresstherapist.comInstagram: @thestresstherapistTwitter/X: @stresstherapy🎧 Credits Host: Cheri FlakeProduced & Edited by: Owen Flake
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  Thanksgiving: Find the Good, Feed the Gratitude 19.11.2025 32мин

  ✨ Episode Summary:In this heartwarming holiday episode, Cheri pops out of her retreat-mode to drop a cozy, candid Thanksgiving chat straight from her pink treehouse. Inspired by a silent meditation retreat and a real-talk moment with a client, she gets real about why gratitude sometimes feels forced—and how to gently shift into a more loving, ease-filled practice. With stories of chapstick, cranky teens, and making lunches with love, Cheri invites us to stop overthinking gratitude and start living it. This episode ends with a beautiful, breath-centered guided meditation on love and thankfulness.🔑 Key Learning Points:Gratitude doesn't need a journal. You don’t have to write it down to feel it—just find the good in everyday moments and let the thankfulness naturally flow.Resentment vs. Reverence. The way we frame our daily “chores” can turn obligation into a sacred act of service—and that shift changes everything.Love makes life taste better. Whether you're cooking, cleaning, or just breathing, doing it with love transforms your entire experience (and maybe even the flavor).💌 Mentions & Shout-Outs:🧘 Self-Realization Fellowship – Cheri’s recent silent meditation retreat that inspired this soulful drop-in.📚 Gratitude Journals – The pros, cons, and Cheri’s “just live it” alternative.💖 "It's Easy and I Like It" Tattoos – Cheri’s go-to mantra and mini gift from her talks.📺 NewRealityTV.com + URView TV – Where you can find Cheri’s video meditations.📬 Cheri’s Gift Guide & Retreat Newsletter – Sign up at TheStressTherapist.com to get it!📧 Email her anytime: [email protected]💕 Follow Cheri:Instagram: @thestresstherapistTwitter/X: @stresstherapy🎧 Produced by Owen Flake – Mixing the vibes and polishing the magic, thank you for making it all sound so good!
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  When Everyone's Driving You Nuts (Classic Replay) 23.10.2025 30мин

  ✨ Episode Summary: Ever have one of those days where it feels like everyone is out to test your patience? In this classic replay, Cheri Flake dives deep into what’s really going on when the world feels extra annoying—and (spoiler!) the answer might not be them. With wisdom from retreats, a powerful teaching by Pema Chödrön, and reminders from A Course in Miracles, Cheri unpacks the empowering truth of owning your inner landscape. This episode includes a deeply grounding "Train Station OM" meditation to help you return to your center and choose peace over reactivity. 🔑 3 Key Learning Points:It’s not them, it’s you: When everyone is getting on your nerves, it's time to look inward, not outward.Replace the loop: Stop affirming negative states (like saying "I’m tired")—your brain listens and responds accordingly.You get to choose: Every moment is an invitation to respond consciously rather than react unconsciously.📣 Mentions & Shout-Outs:🎭 TV Show: Shrinking — sparked the convo about honesty in therapy🧘‍♀️ Pema Chödrön — her short retreat video inspired the episode’s key metaphor📚 A Course in Miracles — quoted for its teaching on inner change sparking outer peace🧳 Retreat Center: Ignatius House, Atlanta — Cheri’s pre-recording getaway🏔️ Upcoming Retreats:Blue Ridge, GA (June & Oct) – Mountain meditation & yoga escapeJekyll Island (Aug) – Beach retreat with sunrise yoga & bonfire bliss👉 Reserve Your Spot👩‍🏫 Yoga with Cindy Dollar – returning favorite teacher from Asheville🥗 Chef Christina Law – farm-to-table meals + Thai massage💌 Mailing List Perk: Jump on Cheri’s mailer to stay stress-free and in the loop!🛠️ Producer Credit: Huge thanks to Owen Flake for producing this classic replay 🙌
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  Classic Replay: Davidji on Making Meditation Stick 24.09.2025 45мин

  ✨ Episode Summary: This classic replay episode is one of those golden ones that deserves a second (or third!) listen. In this heartfelt and high-energy convo, Cheri welcomes the legendary Davidji—named one of USA Today's top five meditation teachers to follow—to wrap up her 12-week series with a deep dive on making meditation a lifelong habit. From his iconic "RPM" method to the science behind morning rituals and his game-changing 16 Seconds to Bliss technique, Davidji offers wisdom that's wildly practical and deeply soulful. Plus, there’s a beautiful guided meditation and a few tender moments about Peaches (yes, the Buddha-princess pup). A must-revisit for anyone ready to recommit to stillness—one breath at a time. 🎧 Originally aired thanks to our dear friend Owen—this is a lovingly handpicked replay. Enjoy the magic all over again. 🧘 Key Learning Points:Ritual beats willpower. Davidji’s "RPM" formula—Rise, Pee, Meditate—makes your practice as natural as brushing your teeth.Subtle wins are still wins. Meditation changes your brain and your life, but the signs might whisper, not shout—so stay tuned in.16 Seconds to Bliss works—even if you know the trick. A simple breath technique can stop stress in its tracks and bring you back to the now, anywhere, anytime.📚 Mentions & Shout-Outs:🧔‍♂️ Davidji – Meditation master, author, and founder of the Masters of Wisdom & Meditation Teacher Training🐶 Peaches – Davidji’s mindful Morkie and tiny teacher of unconditional love📖 Books by Davidji:Secrets of Meditation – the OG foundation (and all proceeds go to charity!)Destressifying – Cheri’s favorite, packed with real-world tools like SODA and SQUEEZESacred Powers – a deep dive into transformation through powerful inner questions🧪 Study Mention: Broadcasting Happiness by Michelle Gielan – research showing how your first 30 minutes shape your entire daySpecial thanks to Owen Flake – For helping bring this classic episode back to the feed through producing and editing. We love you!
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  Back to the Basics, Baby 03.09.2025 28мин

  ✨ Episode Summary: Welcome to Season 2! In this warm and witty kickoff, your favorite stress therapist brings us back to what matters: stillness, consciousness, and the radical magic of not saying “I’m tired.” Through heartfelt stories (including a rainy river trip that turned into a core memory), this episode reminds us why meditation matters and how we can reclaim our peace—one breath at a time. It all leads to a gentle guided breath meditation to help you get grounded, get quiet, and just be. Whether you're new or returning, this episode is your loving nudge to start again—with humor, honesty, and heart. 🧘‍♀️ 3 Key Learning Points:Tired is a choice—stop saying it! You create your reality with your words. Saying “I’m tired” only fuels the fatigue.Complaining makes things worse. Every. Single. Time. Even in miserable moments, keeping humor and presence can transform the experience.Meditation is not about nothing. It’s training your mind to focus on one thing—your breath, a mantra, or stillness—and taking custody of your consciousness.💫 Mentions & Shout-Outs:🛶 Rainy canoe trip with Andre – a core memory filled with laughter and no complaints.📿 "You create your reality" – inspired by Parmahansa Yogananda.🧠 Quote nod to Michael A. Singer – on the mind being separate from the self.📵 The Brick – a real gadget the host uses to remove distractions from her phone.💬 Classic quote reimagined: "All of man’s problems stem from his inability to sit quietly in a room alone for 15 minutes."🧘‍♂️ Guided Meditation Included – a back-to-basics breath-focused meditation with gentle grounding.📩 Special Love for Owen Flake – for producing the show with care and clarity!
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  Pickleball Energy for Your Soul: The Secret to True Motivation 19.08.2025 27мин

  🪷 Show Notes: Ever wonder why you just can't seem to get motivated — even for the stuff you actually want to do? In this soul-sparking episode, Cheri breaks down the true nature of motivation and why it's not what you think. Spoiler: it doesn't magically show up before the action... it comes after. From her early days working with people living with schizophrenia to her own personal spiral of stress and transformation, Cheri shares raw stories, real science, and hilarious truth bombs that will make you want to lace up your sneakers (or at least drink some water). We unpack the little-by-little mentality, the “Pickleball Principle,” and the magic of doing less so you can feel more. Plus, a peaceful guided meditation using the powerful mantra “Om” awaits at the end — perfect if you’re ready to start showing up for yourself with love, not pressure. ✨ 3 Key Takeaways:Motivation follows action, not the other way around. If you're waiting to feel motivated before you start, you'll wait forever.Do less, feel better. Start small and stop on a high note — your brain and habits will thank you.Feel good first. When a behavior feels good, you’re far more likely to stick with it (hello, pickleball people!).🙌 Mentions & Shout-Outs:🧠 Volition vs. Motivation — insight from psychiatric work🧘‍♂️ Davidji – Cheri’s beloved meditation teacher & voice of “RPM: Rise, Pee, Meditate”🎾 Pickleball People – the ultimate metaphor for effortless motivation🐾 Cheri’s Retreats – beachy, mountainy, dog-friendly, magical (come along!)🎵 Sonic Yogi – musical support for the guided Om meditation🛠️ Cheri’s garage – a hot mess, but metaphor gold💧 Hydration struggles & spousal water-bragging rights 😂🚘 Shout-out to her “CHEROKEE” license plate — and the evolving school of “Cheri Flake School”🧘‍♀️ Guided Meditation Included: Yes! A short, centering mantra-based meditation using “Om” to bring you back to center and energize your mind. Produced & edited with heart by 🎧 Owen Flake.Hosted by Cheri Flake, The Stress Therapist.
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  No One Is Coming to Save You....And that's GOOD News! 30.07.2025 28мин

  ✨ Episode Summary: In this fiercely empowering episode, Cheri Flake dives deep into the illusion of control and the ultimate truth: you are the master of your life. Through reflections on Lucinda Williams' haunting lyrics and personal stories from her therapy practice, Cheri explores how we give our power away—and how to take it back. She challenges us to stop waiting for permission, resolution, or the perfect moment, and instead embrace radical responsibility for our healing and joy. The episode wraps with a powerful guided chakra meditation to help you turn inward and reconnect with your innate light. 🧠 Three Key Learning Points:🌪️ Control is an Inside Job: Real empowerment begins the moment you take 100% responsibility for your life—no exceptions, no blame.💡 Joy Isn’t Lost, It’s Buried: Stop searching “out there”—happiness lives within, waiting to be uncovered through stillness and silence.🔥 Unresolved Isn’t Always Unfinished: What you can’t fix might be sacred. Acceptance can be the most divine protection of all.📣 Mentions & Shout-Outs:🎸 Lucinda Williams – Her song “Joy” is a soulful metaphor for the search we all do outside of ourselves.📚 Wayne Dyer – His teachings on radical responsibility helped shape this episode’s core message.🧘‍♀️ Silent Retreats – Cheri shares insights from her mountain retreats and upcoming offerings.📍 Georgia Retreats – 🍂 September 2025 in the Blue Ridge Mountains & 🏖️ Jekyll Island retreats: meditation, yoga, and transformation in stunning locations.💌 Join the mailing list at ilovetherapy.com so you don’t miss a thing!📲 Instagram: @thestresstherapist🐦 Twitter/X: @estresstherapy🎧 Production Credit: Big love and thanks to 🎧 Owen Flake for producing and editing this episode with care and clarity.
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  Manifesting Without the Ick 16.07.2025 28мин

  🌀 Episode Summary: In this delightfully candid and mind-opening episode, Cheri Flake (a.k.a. your friendly neighborhood Stress Therapist) dives into the often-cringey concept of manifestation—but from a place of authenticity, clarity, and spiritual alignment. With a touch of skepticism and a whole lot of soul, Cheri shares real-life stories about manifesting the impossible: from her dream house (hello, Zillow magic and Ganesh chants!) to her new car (cue divine dealership intervention). The episode wraps with a heart-centered “Peace In, Peace Out” meditation that helps you become a magnet for the calm and clarity you're seeking. 🧘‍♀️✨ 🔑 Three Key Learning Points:Specificity is Power: Get crystal clear on exactly what you want—not what you “should” want. Manifestation only works when you're aligned with your true desires.Feel It to Believe It: Emotions fuel manifestation. Pair your intentions with genuine, heightened feelings to convince your brain (and the universe) that it matters.Divine Timing Loves a Listener: You’ve got to show up, pay attention, and be open to nudges, signs, and sacred coincidences—even if they arrive disguised as a grocery cart exchange.💫 Mention & Shout-Out Section:📚 The Surrender Experiment by Michael Singer – Sheri says, “Don’t read the back. Just read the book. Trust me.”🧘‍♂️ Paramahansa Yogananda – On how money can be sacred and surrender is strength.🧠 Wayne Dyer – His advice on focusing your thoughts with emotion and intention.🎶 Cheri's new band! (Yup, she’s singing and her heart is wide open.)🏡 Andrew “Gilby” Gilbert – Rock star real estate agent in Atlanta (Keller Williams).🐘 Ganesh – Remover of obstacles, featured in Sheri and Violet’s adorable manifesting chant.🚗 Kia Sorento SX Prestige Plug-In Hybrid – Her new dream car (times three!).🔮 Guided Meditation: Peace In, Peace Out – A gentle, grounding practice to help you receive and radiate peace.🎙️ Credits: Produced & edited with love and skill by Owen Flake 💻🎧 Want more magic like this?👉 Follow @stresstherapist on Instagram👉 Follow @stresstherapy on Twitter💌 Visit ilovetherapy.com to join Cheri's mailing list, book retreats, or (if you're in Georgia) schedule a therapy session. Until next season…You got this. 💖
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  Stop Ghosting Yourself! 02.07.2025 28мин

  📝 Episode Summary: In this heartfelt episode, Cheri unpacks the sneaky habit of putting everyone else first—even strangers—and what it really means when we constantly flake on ourselves. She calls it Southern Hospitality Syndrome: a charming but toxic blend of kindness and chronic self-abandonment. With her signature warmth and wit, Cheri shares personal stories, including a hilarious tale of 20 years of polite miscommunication, and offers real-world tips on how to finally treat yourself like someone you actually care about. Stick around for a guided chakra meditation focused on the heart, throat, and third eye to help you align with self-love and truth. 🔑 Three Key Learning Points:Self-Abandonment Looks Polite: Being ultra-kind to others while bailing on your own needs is still abandonment—just with a smile.Calendar It Like You Mean It: Treat personal commitments like appointments with someone important (spoiler: that’s you).Confidence = Equality: True confidence isn’t about being better—it's knowing you're just as valuable as anyone else at the table.📣 Mentions & Shout-Outs:🎵 “Bless Your Heart” by Megan Moroney – for a little Southern passive-aggression education🏃‍♀️ Peachtree Road Race – Cheri’s one and only running moment (cheers included)🧘‍♀️ Vista Yoga in Atlanta – Cheri teaches there on Thursday nights🌐 Website: ilovetherapy.com – retreats, classes & all the good stuff📧 Join the email list for stress-free updates & surprises🙌 Producer Credit: Big thanks to Owen Flake, the silent hero behind the scenes!
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  What Do You Want (Your Desires Aren't Going Anywhere) 18.06.2025 28мин

  ✨ Episode Summary: In this soulful and spirited episode, Cheri explores the powerful pull of desire—how our deepest wants keep whispering to us, no matter how long we've ignored them. Through candid storytelling, humor, and a heartfelt guided meditation, she helps you reconnect with your inner truth and reminds you that joy is a spiritual directive. Whether it’s a creative spark, a childhood dream, or a mysterious calling, your desires aren’t random—they’re sacred. Plus, there’s a writing prompt to help you get clear and real about what you truly want. 📌 Three Key Learning Points:Desires Don’t Expire: Longings that come from your heart will keep nudging you until you pay attention—and that’s a good thing.Flip the Script with “Not This”: Clarity often starts with defining what you don’t want. Let that contrast guide you to truth.Ditch the “How” Trap: You don’t need to figure out the logistics—your job is to dream clearly. Let the universe handle the delivery.💫 Mentions & Shout-Outs:🧘‍♀️ Meditation by Davidji – Guided heart-centered journey into your desires.🐴 Equine Therapy Story – A powerful reminder that “I don’t know how” is not a reason to quit.✍️ Writing Prompt – “What do I truly desire?” (Don’t overthink—just write.)🌄 Retreats in Georgia – Meditation + yoga in dreamy mountain settings: Retreat Info💌 Join Cheri’s Mailing List – Sign up here so you never miss a retreat, episode, or soulful tip.📲 Follow Cheri Online – @thestresstherapist on Instagram | @stresstherapy on Twitter🌟 Rate & Review the Show – It helps so much. Thank you for spreading the calm!🎛️ Episode Production: Produced and edited by Owen—a creative force behind the scenes, helping shape the energy and sound of each episode with care and clarity. 🎧✨
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  Classic Replay! Meditation- -Where to Start 11.06.2025 28мин

  🪷 Episode Summary: In this classic replay, Cheri Flake brings us back to basics with heartfelt humor and soulful honesty. Through personal stories, down-to-earth wisdom, and a warm shout-out to Louise Hay and Davidji, Cheri shares how to truly begin a daily meditation practice—without overcomplicating it. Whether you're a binge meditator, a meditation dropout, or totally new to the cushion, this episode is your permission slip to just start—three minutes at a time. Bonus: includes a calming breathwork-based meditation to kickstart your practice with presence and grace. ✨ Three Key Learning Points:Three Minutes > Zero Minutes: Starting small, even just three minutes a day, beats lofty goals you never stick to. Build the habit, not the hype.RPM = Rise, Pee, Meditate: This simple formula helps anchor your practice before the world (or your phone) steals your focus. Mornings work best—even for night owls.Feel Good to Change: You can't shame yourself into transformation. Real change starts with compassion and showing up, not should-ing yourself into guilt.💌 Mentions & Shout-Outs:📖 Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind by Shunryu Suzuki – Back-to-basics spiritual inspiration.🎉 You Can Heal Your Life by Louise Hay – The queen of affirmations and thought power.🌬️ 16 Seconds to Bliss by Davidji – Breath practice featured in the episode.🎙️ The Skeptic Metaphysicians – Podcast Cheri recently guested on. Woo meets wonder.🧠 Quote Drop: “Your personal reality creates your personality” — Joe Dispenza.🎯 Accountability Tip: Text a friend “RPM” every morning to build the habit together!💻 Cheri’s site: ilovetherapy.com – For retreats, consults, and sweet stress therapy mailers.Produced and edited by Owen Flake | Audio production, editing, and creative direction 🎛️🎚️🎧