In today’s episode, I’m finally answering the #1 personal question that I get asked: What’s the story behind my tattoo on my right wrist? Pull up a seat to laugh along with us as Chris and I share our tattoo adventure - complete with anxiety, jealousy, intention, love, a huge mistake on my part, and the most incredible moments of synchronicity. But it’s not just a story; there’s a much more profound topic we are discussing today.  Because tattoos aren’t really about tattoos.  They are an example of a powerful, positive force that habit researchers call an “environmental trigger.”  They’re also an example of another tool that you can use to create a more powerful and resilient mindset. Because a lot of tattoos are also “meaningful mantras.”  Today, you will learn how to create and use positive triggers and meaningful mantras to improve your life and to remind you of either a deeper purpose or the values you want to live by. This goes way beyond etching ink onto your body.  By the end of this episode, you’ll not only be inspired to create your own meaningful mantra, you will have several specific examples of how you can create a positive environmental trigger using things you have around your house.  One thing’s for sure, this episode will leave a lasting impression. 😄 Xo Mel   In this episode, you’ll learn: 6:00: I’m answering this personal question so many of you have been asking.8:30: Chris shares his powerful story for the tattoo he etched on his forearm.12:00: The inspiration for my own tattoo came from this.15:00: You won’t believe what happened on our 15th wedding anniversary.18:00: Here’s how I beat myself up while Chris was getting his tattoo.19:00: You might know this already, but a tattoo isn’t just a tattoo. 21:00: I just love the synchronicity behind this entire tattoo event.24:30: Chris’s tattoo has become a lifeline for him, especially now.30:30: Rule #1: a mantra will only work for you if you have this first.32:15: Need an idea for your own mantra? I’ve got a bunch of them for you.34:30: Here’s how to figure out your own powerful mantra.36:30: This is what scientists think about why tattoos are so powerful.38:15: Here’s what Chris did that gets him emotional every time he sees it.41:00: Are you a busy mom? Then this mantra might work for you.42:40: Maybe you need to shift your thinking about a mantra this way. Learn more about “How & Why Synchronicity Can Improve Your Life.”Want more about finding your purpose? “Stop Searching and Do This Instead.” Disclaimer

In this episode, you’re learning how to speak up for yourself and make sure that you are heard. Whether you want to be more influential and visible at work or there’s a hard conversation that you’ve been avoiding with a family member, this episode will empower you to have a breakthrough. Most of us have never been taught the skills we need to have challenging conversations or to better advocate for our needs. The good news is that these are skills, and you are going to learn them in a very entertaining and relatable format today. You’re invited to listen in on multiple coaching sessions with listeners just like you and me who are struggling to find the words or the courage to say what needs to be said. So today I’m unpacking my formula, step by step, for handling challenging conversations. This is an excellent episode to send to people in your life who you really wish saw their own value and worth and could communicate it better. I can’t wait to hear how these very clear steps have helped you have those conversations you’ve been putting off and to show up differently at work and school. Xo Mel  Want me to answer your question on the podcast? Submit it here. In this episode, you’ll learn: 3:00: Listen to Claudia’s question about how to set boundaries in friendships.5:30: Here are 3 reasons why we avoid difficult conversations in the first place.14:40: Do you have a friend who criticizes you? Listen to this.17:30: Make sure you are ready with THIS before you start your conversation.19:45: This is a prime example of a time when I was being a crappy friend.23:30: Here’s what you should assume before you have a conversation.25:30: Never do this or you’ll put the other person on the defensive.26:45: If you can, PLEASE have your conversation this way.30:40: Here’s my favorite visual when it’s my turn to listen.33:40: Do you have to communicate with an ex? Listen to Erica.35:50: You’ve got to learn how to “gray rock” when dealing with difficult people.36:40: See the petty people in this ridiculous way and it will help!39:30: Like it or not, you have to have this conversation for your kids’ sake.40:30: Here is what anger and pettiness actually is.41:15: One of two things will happen when you handle conversations like this.43:30: How do you handle combative people in your life? Listen to Candace.46:00: Here’s what a person with anxious attachment needs to hear from you.49:00: Need to have a conversation with someone who’s triggered easily? Is it time to let go of your relationship? If so, then listen to “How to Let Go.” Learn about “The 4 Attachment Styles for Healthy Relationships.” Disclaimer

I made you an appointment with one of the world’s leading doctors in functional medicine.Dr. Mark Hyman has written an incredible 14 (!!!) New York Times best sellers. He is the founder and director of The UltraWellness Center, and Head of Strategy and Innovation at the Cleveland Clinic Center for Functional Medicine.His latest book, Young Forever, teaches you science-backed, actionable steps to slow down the aging process and even reverse disease.An appointment like this would cost $$$ in person, but today, it’s free for you.Seriously, you will be floored by what you hear.No matter how old you are, you have more control over your health than you may think, and it’s never too early or too late to start making simple yet profound changes.Having trouble sleeping? We've got you.Brain fog and headaches messing up your day? Check.Low energy? We hear you.Anxiety and ADHD running your life? We’re covering that too.In this episode, we are breaking everything down point by point so that you get the specific, actionable steps you need to start changing your life in real time.Grab a notebook because the doctor is in and he will see you now.Get ready to take charge of your health like never before.Xo MelCheck out research and other resources at melrobbins.com/podcast. In this episode, you’ll learn: 9:30: Food is not just food; here’s what it becomes once you eat it.12:30: So what’s the connection between gut health and overall health?14:45: What exactly is inflammation and what’s causing it?16:30: Okay, so then what does a healthy gut look like?19:30: Put these foods on your plate for 10 days and see what happens.23:30: The big fat lie we’re being fed every day.25:30: Can changing my gut heal my anxiety?27:15: This simple tool will improve digestion and calm your nerves.28:30: Phenomenal story of ADHD that was healed in two months.31:30: The difference between two main types of allergies.34:00: Holy sh*t! What Dr. Hyman said that reminded me of Oakley.37:45: The 5 major things in your life that cause inflammation.40:00: Simple tips to help you start sleeping better.42:40: If we could cure this, we’d extend our lives by more than 7 years.44:45: These are the supplements you and I should be taking.48:15: Here’s what causes your body to dump too much magnesium.50:50: Trouble with your hormones? You need to hear this.55:00: Do this if you want a clear picture of your health.59:45: What probiotics help reset your gut? Want me to answer your question on the podcast? Submit it here.Start your day off with focus using “A Toolkit for the Perfect Morning Routine.”Here are more “Simple Ways to Improve Your Brain Health.” Disclaimer

In this episode, you and I are tackling overwhelm together as I coach five listeners just like you who are tired of feeling so stressed. I promise this will be helpful, fun, and full of powerful tools you can put to use immediately. You need that because you’re drowning in your to-do lists, taking care of everyone else but yourself, and you’re saying yes to every commitment that enters your inbox.  That’s why simple solutions are the answer. And I need these solutions too. I feel like my to-do list is overflowing and the demands are piling up. But that’s okay, because with The Mel Robbins Podcast, you get to show up exactly as you are. And today, we will start breaking down the two types of overwhelm so you can understand exactly what it is you’re dealing with.  But we don’t stop there. You’re also getting three simple but profound strategies to help you eliminate the overwhelm from your life. So that you start feeling energized again.  And I so want that for you.  Xo Mel Check out research and other resources at melrobbins.com/podcast.In this episode, you’ll learn: 3:30: If you’re a parent or caregiver, you’ll recognize yourself in Laura’s question.8:00: Knowing the two types of overwhelm has profoundly impacted my life.9:00: What my talk show mentor taught me that I’ll never forget.11:45: When it comes to dealing with legitimate overwhelm, start here.14:45: Can you have a morning routine when your life is overwhelmed?17:00: When life seems insanely busy, you have to stop telling yourself this lie.18:00: Here’s my #1 strategy for dealing with overwhelm.23:30: Are you someone who says yes to everything? Then this is for you.28:40: The Rule of Three saves me every time.32:35: This truth about procrastination will make you see it in a whole new way.38:15: Procrastinating on paying your bills? You need to listen to Michelle. Want me to answer your question on the podcast? Submit it here.Don’t know how to say no? Listen to “Start Putting Yourself First.”And I know you will like “The Only Way to Stop Procrastinating.” Disclaimer

In this episode, we are digging into betrayal and learning how to get your power back after someone shatters your trust. It’s happened to me and I know it’s happened to you, too. Maybe someone cheated on you. Maybe someone stole from you in business. Perhaps it was a friend who stabbed you in the back.   It’s painful.   You might not be sure how to confront that person, or if it’s even worth it.  Or if you did confront them, they may have denied and deflected, making you feel like something was wrong with you. Well today I’m using my own experiences with betrayal to coach Sonia and Jenn - and you - through this.  You always have options, and whether you believe it or not, you can get your power back. Today’s episode will help you heal, change your perspective, and equip you with the tools you need to land on your feet and be smarter, more open and able to create healthier relationships, partnerships, and friendships in the future. You deserve that. Buckle up, because your friend Mel is hitting you between the eyes with some hard earned wisdom and tough love today.   Xo Mel Check out research and other resources at melrobbins.com/podcast.In this episode, you’ll learn: 3:30: I was betrayed by someone in my business and this is what I learned.4:12: Sonia asks her question about a painful betrayal.5:15: Should you confront this person? Ask yourself this first.11:40: You don’t need to have this in order to feel closure with someone.14:20: Here’s how to have a conversation with someone who betrayed you.16:00: Jenn reveals how her painful betrayal has changed her.17:30: This is the hardest part of betrayal to grasp. Please play on repeat.19:20: Here is what you’re actually grieving after you’ve been betrayed.26:45: You need to change your story of betrayal. Here’s how.28:30: Trying to work through betrayal with someone you love? Listen to this.34:40: Here is what the experts say about affairs. 39:45: The advice from Jenn that you need to hear if you’ve just been betrayed. Want me to answer your question on the podcast? Submit it here.Here is Betrayal 101: “3 Lessons From One of the Hardest Years of My Life.”When it’s time to do this, listen to “How to Let Go.” Disclaimer

In this episode, you and I are getting intentional about your happiness.Happiness is misunderstood.Fortunately, there’s a ton of research that explains why it can be so elusive and, even better, HOW you can create a happier life, starting today.Our conversation about happiness begins with breaking down the two types of happiness and why it’s important for you to include both in your life.You’ll also learn four practical takeaways that research says are key for cultivating more happiness in your daily life.I love this episode, and I can’t wait for you to experience it! I am bringing the science and the strategies, and I have a phenomenal metaphor to share with you that will forever change the way you view happiness.You’re not only going to learn what to do; you’re going to experience several listeners just like you who are seeking more happiness and fulfillment in their lives.This is a highly relatable, entertaining, and transformative episode, so don’t miss out.You’ll be happy you joined us.Xo Mel Check out research and other resources at melrobbins.com/podcast.And if you want to start owning your mornings, join my free Wake Up Challenge. In this episode, you’ll learn: 3:00: Can’t remember the last time you were truly happy? You’re not alone.5:00: Does this happen to you when you chase happiness?8:00: What do we mean by happiness, anyway?8:30: You knew this was coming- my favorite metaphor for happiness!10:15: Science puts happiness into these two buckets.14:00: The problem when you’re on a big healing journey and what to do about it.23:00: Can you feel happy even during the mundane, ordinary days?24:15: Believe it or not, here’s where you find true happiness.26:30: This is the single best decision you can make to cultivate happiness.30:00: This is how your brain reads loneliness because you’re meant to connect.35:00: Building warm relationships starts here.37:30: Here’s how I reorganized my own life to stop feeling lonely.39:50: My mom is a pro at this and research shows it will boost your energy.44:30: What do you need to know about feeling inner peace?46:30: Here’s why older people tend to be happier.48:30: Three surprising ways to actually invite more peace in your life. Want me to answer your question on the podcast? Submit it here. This episode pairs well with “You’ll Never Be Truly Happy Until You Start Doing This” Learn how to train your mind with “The Mindset Reset Toolkit.”. Disclaimer 

Today’s episode is a trip. I can’t wait to introduce you to my favorite metaphor - a road trip - to inspire you to have more fun and enjoy the ride on this thing called life. After all, life is a journey. And no one’s path is exactly the same.  So today, I’m asking you to think about this road trip called life.  And I’m going to be asking you to consider some thought-provoking questions: Are you the driver or the passenger of your life? Are you even on the right road?  Do you need to pick a new direction?  Are you heading where you want to go, but speeding so fast you can’t enjoy the ride? Is it time to update the road trip playlist (in your head)? And most importantly, what lies on the road ahead?  Whether you’ve just graduated, you’re an empty nester, or you’re somewhere in between, this episode is the perfect gift to send to absolutely everyone in your life. Change is scary, but it doesn’t have to be. I’m here to help you navigate the road ahead.  This episode will empower you to take the wheel in your life. Because you, my friend, have choices.  And there’s a million ways to get to where you want to go. The best days of your life are ahead. I believe that, and after you embrace the opportunity of this road trip called life, you’ll believe it too!  Xo Mel Check out research and other resources at melrobbins.com/podcast.And if you want to start owning your mornings, join my free Wake Up Challenge. In this episode, you’ll learn: 1:00: You’re often asking me about my career history, well here it is!3:00: What does reinvention mean anyway?6:00: The #1 piece of advice to remember before you reinvent your life.8:45: 90% of the questions coming into my inbox are about this.9:40: This is my favorite metaphor when it comes to demystifying life’s journey.12:45: When you are stuck or you’re going through hell, do this first.14:15: What happens when life doesn't go the way you expected it to?17:30: When sh*t happens in your life, please don’t do this.18:30: Embrace these two truths about life, you’ll tap into your power.20:30: Do this activity to start loving the most important person in your life.22:00: What do you do when your life feels “blah” and uninspiring?26:45: Don’t miss these science-backed steps to create more excitement!31:45: I texted this study from Laura Vanderkam to all my parent friends.35:30: Your relationship to time is always going to be about this.36:15: This study with university students doesn’t make sense logically.40:00: Denise was thinking about this for 20 YEARS; listen to what happened. Want me to answer your question on the podcast? Submit it here. Want more help with your dreams? Listen to “Your Dreams Are Not a Joke” and “Goal-Setting Toolkit.” Disclaimer

In this episode, you are getting a brand new definition of confidence.This definition is based on research studies on how confidence is built.Confidence is not what you think it is.It is not a personality trait you’re born with, and it’s not reserved only for extroverts.Confidence is a skill that anyone can master.And today is the perfect day for you to start.You and I are breaking down the science together, and you’re invited to join in as I coach several listeners who are struggling with self-doubt.By the time this episode is done, you will not only have a brand new definition of confidence, but you will also know how to put that definition to use to start building unstoppable confidence in your own life.Confidence is your birthright. You can’t lose it; you just lost your connection to it.Let’s get that back.If you are willing to get up every day and put one foot in front of the other, you, my friend, will not only be practicing and building confidence, but over time you’ll start feeling more confident too.Xo Mel Check out research and other resources at melrobbins.com/podcast.In this episode, you’ll learn: 2:00: The question Heather asked about confidence that so many of you have.3:50: Honestly, here’s what happens when you have more confidence.6:00: This is a “doing podcast," so here’s your first assignment.8:30: This is what you and I were getting wrong about confidence. Until now.8:45: Your new definition of confidence that embodies the research.13:45: Here is one of the simplest and yet profound reasons for my success.14:40: Did you happen to catch my 21-minute panic attack on TEDx?16:50: Neuroscience says it gets easier to feel confident when you do this.21:40: Feeling like an imposter? Great! Here’s why.23:30: Alex’s question led us to talk about Myth #1 about confidence.24:20: Here’s a surprising fact about confidence.25:55: Myth #2 about confidence needs to be laid to rest.27:00: Telling yourself that you lost your confidence? Then listen to Myth #3.28:10: I’ve loved this TED Talk for years. 29:00: Use tool #1 to interrupt your self-doubt and do what you’re afraid of..31:25: Confidence does not come before action; THIS does.31:00: There are two types of people when it comes to action. Which are you?33:30: Rule #2 is fun; research says it’s the fastest way to create new habits.35:45: Rule #3 is absolutely essential if you want to build confidence.38:00: Rule #4 is what I tell myself every time I’m about to do something scary.40:50: I don’t want to come to the end of my life feeling this.42:45: If you’re willing to feel this way, you’re guaranteed to keep growing.44:15: Do you like this person you’re spending your life with?46:00: Be careful who you give your number one commodity away to.49:30: Ultimately, here’s why you’re not feeling confident. Now change that.51:00: This is the hard truth about life that you need to hear. Want me to answer your question on the podcast? Submit it here. Sign up for my free 5-day Wake Up Challenge to wake up your confidence. Disclaimer

This is an episode about how to face the things that you’re scared to admit, or as in the case of my guest today, have never publicly spoken about.Today, you and I are going on a healing journey so that you can put the past where it belongs: in the rearview mirror.You deserve healing.It’s the only pathway for experiencing true peace, happiness, and the greatness you’re capable of.So, I’m introducing you to a friend of mine who had some serious sh*t to face and has spent the last several years addressing the things that used to drag him down.Do not miss this deeply personal conversation.It is profound. It is relevant to your life and packed with so much wisdom. And we jump right in. There are so many mic-drop moments, it would be hard for me to pick just one, because my guest today was so unguarded and generous.You may know him, but you’ve never heard him like this before.I’m talking about Lewis Howes, host of the award-winning podcast, The School of Greatness, which just celebrated its 10-year anniversary and has over 500 million downloads.His brand new book, The Greatness Mindset, teaches you how to discover your own unique gifts and talents, but more importantly, how to do the work to heal.And look, this conversation is “unguarded” and covers sensitive topics (particularly perhaps for the men in your life). So if this isn’t for you right now – please skip this episode.I cannot wait to hear your favorite and most meaningful parts of this unforgettable conversation with Lewis.Xo MelIn this episode, you’ll learn: 3:00: After all the work he’s done, how does Lewis define greatness?4:50: If you’re drowning emotionally, here’s what to do.6:00: One of the most profound ways to start accepting yourself.8:00: If you were bullied or didn’t do well in school, you’ll relate to this.13:00: Almost all of us have an identity crisis at some point in our lives.14:43: Here’s what happens when success never feels fulfilling.15:40: What does it feel like to be “at peace”?19:30: Listen to Lewis describe the surprising places he felt his past trauma.21:00: Here’s how Lewis came to terms with being dyslexic.23:40: If you haven’t healed trauma, here’s how it can come out in your day to day life.28:20: Lewis describes the first time he shared his trauma out loud.37:00: No matter what you do, you don’t feel like you’re enough. Here’s what to do.37:35: Here’s what’s incredible about seeing your own value.40:30: Lewis started a podcast when podcasts were not really a thing. This is how it began.42:30: The wake up moment that led to The School of Greatness.45:15: Do this when you want to change your career or start a business.46:30: I love this way of thinking about winning.48:30: Out of hundreds, this is the interview guest that had the most impact.50:30: Lewis only found real love after doing this first.53:00: What does it mean to no longer abandon yourself?54:00: Most men struggle with this because they were never taught how.56:30: The powerful words Lewis said at the start of his current relationship.58:00: The moment in Lewis’ therapy that changed everything.60:00: The surprising place where Lewis found men who felt emotionally free. Visit www.melrobbins.com/podcast for additional resources. Want me to answer your question on the podcast? Submit it here.Disclaimer

In this episode, you are going to learn how to put yourself first. Which means you and I are having a conversation about people-pleasing. You know you do it. I do it, too.  In fact, unless you're a narcissistic jerk (and you’re not if you’re listening to these podcast episodes), we are all people-pleasers to some extent. Being a people-pleaser is a coping mechanism and it is destroying your energy, your time, your dreams, and your sanity. Every time you say yes to something you don’t really want to do, you’re saying no to yourself. Today, we’re changing that in a surprising way. First, you’ll become aware of when and why you do it. Second, you’ll learn the science-backed tools you need to break the habit of always putting other people’s needs before your own. Third, you and I are going to have a talk about guilt, because when you start saying no, one thing I can guarantee is that you’ll feel guilty about it. I used to, too. I don’t anymore. And I’ll explain how you can handle the guilt and still put yourself first. One of the critical steps to creating a life you love is learning how to say yes to what matters to you and no to what doesn’t. This is a big topic; there are a lot of surprising layers. So I can’t wait for you to apply these relatable and easy strategies to your life and to hear about your breakthroughs.  Xo Mel  In this episode, you’ll learn: 1:50: What the heck IS people-pleasing anyway? (4 takeaways you may have not heard)5:12: I bet you can relate to Janet who learned this message as a kid.6:00: Let’s just get the bad news about guilt out of the way.7:15: Because here is some good news about guilt!9:00: What does a pool table have to do with people-pleasing?14:50: I still cringe when I think of this phone call with my father.18:45: Here’s how a pool table can double as a desk 😂22:10: What happens when your friends don’t like the “new you”?24:45: At the heart of people-pleasing is this.26:00: This research explains why we avoid discomfort. 27:16: Think people-pleasing is about others? Think again.28:00: The surprising advice for how to handle disappointment from others.31:50: What if your lifestyle is now different from your friends?34:30: Here’s where to find friends who get you.35:10: Please stop looking here for validation as you change your life.37:50: Are you sure you know when you’re being authentic?40:00: Do this to start figuring out who you really are.42:00: Do this next time you’re asked to do something you don’t want to do.47:00: Here’s how my friend Amy reacted when I had to bail on her at dinner in Vegas.48:50: This is what happens every time you start to say no. Want me to answer your question on the podcast? Submit it here. Visit www.melrobbins.com/podcast for additional resources. Sign up for my free 5-day Wake Up Challenge. Disclaimer