For women entrepreneurs, one of the biggest struggles is the inner critic—that relentless voice of self-doubt and judgment that can hold us back from taking risks, stepping into visibility, or pursuing our bigger dreams. Rather than battling this voice, IFS offers a way to transform the inner critic into a supportive ally, opening up new vistas of confidence and ease.

This week on the podcast, we’re diving more deeply into Internal Family Systems (IFS)—a groundbreaking psychotherapeutic model that’s been life-changing for me and many of my clients. To explore this, I’m joined by Chris Burris, a senior lead trainer in the IFS model.

In this episode, Chris and I discuss the IFS approach at large, focusing specifically on how to work with extreme parts like the inner critic and perfectionist. Through the lens of IFS, these parts aren’t enemies—they’re protectors, often rooted in fear, who need understanding and care to evolve into supportive roles.

Chris also guides us through an IFS meditation to connect with the parts of ourselves that are most dominant right now and shares inspiring, practical ways he uses IFS for daily self-care.

If you’ve ever struggled with self-doubt or perfectionism, this conversation will resonate deeply. It’s an invitation to begin or deepen your own journey with IFS and step into greater and greater levels of Self-leadership.

May it inspire and support you on your path to leading with clarity, confidence, and compassion.

⭐ And, as a special gift, I want to offer you free access to one of my most popular programs, “The IFS Kickstart Kit.” This will teach you the foundational concepts of the Internal Family Systems (IFS) model—a proven framework that has helped me and countless others navigate challenges, build inner clarity, and create thriving, soul-aligned businesses.

Through this 7-part video series, you’ll gain a deep understanding of how IFS works and how to apply it to your own life and business. These are the same principles I teach in my advanced programs, now made accessible in an introductory format.

To receive your complimentary “IFS Kickstarter Kit,” all you have to do is:

1) Leave a review of this podcast.

2) Email a screenshot of your review to hello@saraavantstover.com

It’s as simple as that!

In this Episode We Explore:

[10:32] - Discover the surprising way your business journey can lead to personal growth and transformation.

[22:45] - Explore the concept of "parts" in IFS therapy and how they shape our internal narratives.

[35:18] - Uncover why the inner critic isn't your enemy and how it can become an unexpected ally.

[48:29] - Delve into the powerful connection between perfectionism and self-worth in women’s lives.

[1:03:50] - Experience a guided IFS meditation that invites you to connect with the different parts of yourself.

[1:20:37] - Learn about the importance of compassion in understanding your internal world amidst the chaos of daily life.

Resources:

Mentioned in this episode:

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