her Self: IFS & Spiritual Entrepreneurship

Six years ago, I sat on a beach in Santa Barbara, overwhelmed with panic. After years of heartbreak, failed fertility treatments, and mounting debt, I knew I had to face what I'd been avoiding — bankruptcy.For a long time, I carried deep shame around this. But looking back, I see that filing for bankruptcy wasn’t a failure — it was an act of survival.In this episode, I share the hard truth about hitting financial rock bottom — and the unexpected lessons I gained from starting over.If you’ve ever felt ashamed about money or afraid to admit you’re struggling, this one’s for you.⭐ And, as a special gift, I want to offer you free access to one of my most popular programs, “The IFS Kickstarter 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.comIt’s as simple as that!In this Episode We Explore:[06:45] Explore the moment of realization that led to a pivotal financial decision—was it truly a failure or an unexpected path to survival[12:30] Unpacking the shame and stigma attached to financial struggles—what lessons did vulnerability around money teach[20:15] Reflecting on cultural conditioning and judgments that shape our views on money—how did these beliefs impact personal choices[28:00] The significance of community and shared experiences—how do collective voices empower individual journeys through hardship[35:50] A transformative act of courage—discover the inner dialogue that sparked a pivotal change and redefined a relationship with money[42:20] Reinventing the narrative around financial struggle—what could this mean for women seeking to heal their relationship with moneyResources:Sara’s new book: Handbook for the Heartbroken Subscribe to Sara’s Sunday JournalConnect with Sara on InstagramMentioned in this episode:her Self CEO Waitlist

What if confidence, courage, and clarity weren’t things you had to earn or strive for—but were already within you, waiting to be uncovered?In this special episode, I’m sharing a powerful conversation I had with IFS trauma therapist John Clarke on his Going Inside podcast—one of the most popular interviews I’ve done. We dive into the deeper layers of confidence, visibility, and self-leadership, exploring how Internal Family Systems (IFS) can help heart-centered entrepreneurs break free from burnout, perfectionism, and fear-driven work patterns.I also share my personal journey with IFS—how it helped me heal, trust myself more deeply, and build a thriving business from a place of alignment. Listening to this conversation from a different vantage point gave me fresh insights, and I know it will for you, too.If you’ve ever felt stuck, afraid to be seen, or caught in the cycle of overworking, this episode is for you.⭐ And, as a special gift, I want to offer you free access to one of my most popular programs, “The IFS Kickstarter 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.comIt’s as simple as that!In this Episode We Explore:[4:15] The transformative journey: How personal experiences shape teachings and create paths for others.[12:30] Balancing ambition with authenticity: How IFS assists heart-centered women in overcoming fear and self-doubt in entrepreneurship.[22:05] Embracing stillness: Why taking time to reflect and meditate can lead to better decision-making in business.[35:50] The necessity of unburdening cultural wounds: How external pressures shape our worth and how to navigate them.[47:10] Identifying the source of your creativity: Recognizing when stillness leads to innovation and clarity over the chaos of productivity. [56:30] The real fear of being seen: A deep dive into the dynamics of visibility in the entrepreneurial journey and how to cope with the associated challenges.Resources:John Clarke’s “Going Inside” Podcast Subscribe to Sara’s Sunday JournalConnect with Sara on InstagramMentioned in this episode:her Self CEO Waitlist

How do we bring the sacred into our daily lives—into the way we work, rest, and move through the world?In this episode, award-winning author and interspiritual teacher Mirabai Starr joins me to explore this question. Drawing from her new book, Ordinary Mysticism: Your Life as Sacred Ground, she reminds us that mysticism isn’t reserved for monks and saints—it’s alive in our daily routines, our work, and how we engage with the world.We dive into the connection between spirituality and business, challenging beliefs about money and service while exploring ways to bring more presence and reverence to our work. Mirabai also shares insights on morning rituals, rest, the divine feminine, and writing as a form of prayer.If you’re longing for deeper meaning in your business or seeking the sacred in the everyday, this conversation will inspire you to see life through fresh eyes.⭐ And, as a special gift, I want to offer you free access to one of my most popular programs, “The IFS Kickstarter 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.comIt’s as simple as that!In this Episode We Explore:[11:15] Discover the beauty of grounding daily routines in sacred practice—Mirabai shares her morning rituals that set a tone of intention and presence. [23:45] Explore the concept of mysticism in everyday life—Mirabai challenges us to redefine what sacredness looks like beyond traditional settings and experiences. [38:30] Mirabai opens up about the intersection of spirituality and societal chaos—how to remain present and engaged while navigating overwhelming current events.[45:20] Insights on creating boundaries for personal wellbeing—Mirabai discusses her observations around Sabbath practices and their transformative impact on her life.[56:10] Delve into the delicate relationship between spirituality and earning a living—Mirabai reflects on her journey of reconciling self-worth with financial sustainability. [1:10:00] The conversation shifts to practical applications of writing as a spiritual practice—Mirabai offers guidance for those looking to weave creativity into their everyday spirituality. Resources:Mirabai Starr’s website Mirabai’s Wild Heart & Holy LamentSubscribe to Sara’s Sunday JournalConnect with Sara on InstagramMentioned in this episode:her Self CEO Waitlist

Do you ever feel like your spiritual practice and your business operations exist in two separate worlds? Like your morning meditation is disconnected from your marketing strategy?Today, I'm sharing the five spiritual principles that transformed my approach to business - principles that have helped me and countless women I've mentored create businesses that feel both spiritually aligned AND profitable.If you're tired of feeling scattered, overwhelmed, or caught in reaction mode, I offer a path to greater integration, where your business becomes not something separate from your spiritual path, but an extension of it.Join me for this intimate exploration of business as sadhana - spiritual practice - and discover how every email, planning session, and client call can become an opportunity for presence and growth.⭐And, as a special gift, I want to offer you free access to one of my most popular programs, “The IFS Kickstarter 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.comIt’s as simple as that!In this Episode We Explore:[05:30] Exploring the tension between spiritual practice and the demands of modern business life. What if your business could honor, rather than disrupt, your spiritual growth?[12:15] Discover a radical shift in perspective: How can sacred presence redefine your daily productivity and transform your experience of work?[19:45] The wisdom of nature teaches us about cycles, but how can embracing these rhythms lead to a more sustainable business model?[27:10] Is the quest for external validation holding you back? Learn how returning to your inner wisdom can align your business decisions with your true self.[34:50] Redefining boundaries as spiritual practice—can saying ‘no’ enhance your capacity to serve rather than diminish it?[41:20] Discover the surprising role of structure in your spiritual practice. How might intentional systems serve your highest contribution?Resources:Subscribe to Sara’s Sunday JournalConnect with Sara on InstagramMentioned in this episode:her Self CEO Waitlist

Are you postponing your dreams until "the right time" arrives? In this powerful episode, I reveal why waiting might be the riskiest business strategy of all.As spiritual women entrepreneurs, we often believe we're being prudent by waiting for perfect conditions – when we have more time, more money, more confidence, or when our children are older. But what if this waiting pattern is actually sabotaging your soul's work and costing you more than you realize?In today’s episode, we’ll explore:  The real financial, emotional, and spiritual costs of perpetual waitingHow to identify which protective parts are keeping you stuck in "someday" modeThe crucial difference between divine timing and fear-based procrastinationPractical steps to break free from the waiting cycle and take aligned action nowThrough the lens of Internal Family Systems and feminine spiritual wisdom, discover why the entrepreneurs who thrive aren't necessarily the most prepared – they're the ones willing to begin before they feel "ready."For every woman who's ever thought, "I'll start when..." this episode offers the compassionate truth and practical guidance you need to stop waiting and start creating the impact you're here to make.⭐ And, as a special gift, I want to offer you free access to one of my most popular programs, “The IFS Kickstarter 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.comIt’s as simple as that!In this Episode We Explore:[02:15] The sneaky way “someday” keeps you stuck (and why it’s so costly)[08:42] The hidden forces behind procrastination—it's not what you think[15:10] A client’s heartbreaking realization about waiting too long[22:30] The surprising role of feminine leadership wounds in holding you back[30:05] How to tell if you’re in divine timing or just avoiding action[38:45] The mindset shift that turns hesitation into momentumResources:Subscribe to Sara’s Sunday JournalConnect with Sara on InstagramMentioned in this episode:her Self CEO Waitlist

In this episode, I dive into a pattern I see again and again with the incredible women I work with - the deep hesitation around investing in themselves and their businesses, and the belief that they need permission from others before taking bold steps forward. I explore why so many of us diminish our work as "just a hobby" and feel we need approval (especially from spouses) before making important business investments. Drawing from Internal Family Systems and my years of experience mentoring women entrepreneurs, I share how to move from permission-seeking to enrollment and offer practical guidance for claiming your authority as the leader of your business. If you're ready to stop seeking permission and start fully owning your vision, this episode is for you.⭐ And, as a special gift, I want to offer you free access to one of my most popular programs, “The IFS Kickstarter 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.comIt’s as simple as that!In this Episode We Explore:2:15 – The hidden struggle many women face when making big decisions for themselves7:42 – A powerful question to ask when you feel stuck in hesitation14:30 – Why treating your business like a hobby keeps you playing small22:18 – The surprising impact of ancestral conditioning on financial decision-making31:05 – The game-changing shift from permission-seeking to enrollment38:50 – How stepping into conviction transforms your business and lifeResources:Free Guide: 5 Money Mistakes NOT to Make in 2025[In-Person] Sorceress Retreat: IFS & Women’s Spiritual Leadership Subscribe to Sara’s Sunday JournalConnect with Sara on InstagramMentioned in this episode:her Self CEO Waitlist

Do you believe you have to choose between having structure in your business or maintaining your creative freedom and flow?In this episode, I challenge this either/or thinking and introduce you to "sacred structure" - where Divine Masculine containment meets Divine Feminine flow to create sustainable, soul-aligned businesses.Drawing from my own journey from rigid Type-A planning to total fluidity and finally finding a sacred middle way, I share how structure can actually enhance your creativity and intuition rather than restrict it. Whether you're structure-averse or seeking a more balanced approach, I offer a fresh perspective on how structure can be a form of self-care and spiritual practice, showing that we don't have to choose between being successful and being spiritual.⭐ And, as a special gift, I want to offer you free access to one of my most popular programs, “The IFS Kickstarter 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.comIt’s as simple as that!In this Episode We Explore:[02:15] – The unexpected realization that shifted my entire perspective on structure[07:40] – A cultural wake-up call that challenged everything I believed about freedom[14:25] – The ancient symbol that reveals the secret to balancing structure and flow[21:50] – The resistance to structure isn’t about what you think it is…[30:10] – A simple, life-changing practice that transforms overwhelm into creativity[38:55] – How to build supportive structures without triggering your inner rebelResources:Free Guide: 5 Money Mistakes NOT to Make in 2025[In-Person] Retreat: IFS & Women’s Spiritual Leadership Subscribe to Sara’s Sunday JournalConnect with Sara on InstagramMentioned in this episode:her Self CEO Waitlist

You know your work makes a difference. You’ve seen the impact, received the glowing feedback, and know—deep down—you’re meant for more. Yet, something keeps holding you back from fully stepping into your power and creating the thriving business you envision.Today we’re unpacking The Paradox of Potential—the tension between deeply knowing your value while simultaneously doubting it. We’ll explore the patterns that keep brilliant, heart-centered entrepreneurs playing small:Having expertise but feeling the need for more credentialsCreating incredible programs yet hesitating to share themWanting to serve while struggling to charge your worthWe’ll also dive into the real cost of staying stuck—the financial, emotional, and energetic toll—and why traditional business advice alone isn’t enough to break the cycle. I’ll guide you in shifting from scarcity to sacred leadership—building a business that honors your rhythms, supports your growth, and allows you to step forward with clarity and confidence. Because your gifts are needed now more than ever.If you’re ready to make 2025 the year you finally break free, listen in.⭐ And, as a special gift, I want to offer you free access to one of my most popular programs, “The IFS Kickstarter 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.comIt’s as simple as that!In this Episode We Explore:03:12 – The paradox of potential: why knowing your worth isn’t the same as embodying it.08:45 – The hidden costs of staying small—financial, emotional, and beyond.15:20 – Why traditional business advice often falls short for heart-centered women.22:10 – The real reason strategy alone won’t get you to the next level.28:35 – What happens when you build your business from wholeness instead of fear.35:50 – A new paradigm for success—what’s truly possible when you step into your power.Resources:Applications OPEN! herSelf CEO Order Sara’s new book: Handbook for the HeartbrokenSubscribe to Sara’s Sunday JournalConnect with Sara on InstagramMentioned in this episode:her Self CEO Waitlist

Money - it's one of the most charged topics for women entrepreneurs, especially those of us doing spiritual, transformational work. In this candid episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on creating a conscious, empowered relationship with money and pricing in your business. From my personal journey breaking free from childhood money stories to practical strategies for raising your rates with confidence, we explore how to align your pricing with your true value without compromising your values.Learn why undercharging actually limits your impact, how to implement value-based pricing, and specific steps for having those "scary" money conversations with clients. Plus, discover why your relationship with pricing isn't just about numbers - it's about stepping into your power as a spiritual business owner and creating ripples of possibility for other women.Whether you're ready to raise your rates or simply want a healthier relationship with money in your business, this episode offers both the inner work and practical strategies to help you create sustainable success on your own terms.Key topics include:Creating an empowered relationship with your business financesMoving beyond undercharging and over-deliveringImplementing value-based pricing strategiesHaving confident money conversations with clientsBalancing spiritual alignment with financial success⭐ And, as a special gift, I want to offer you free access to one of my most popular programs, “The IFS Kickstarter 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.comIt’s as simple as that!In this Episode We Explore:[5:12] - Unpacking the financial struggles that often keep women entrepreneurs from thriving.[12:44] - A pivotal moment in my journey: how my childhood shaped my relationship with money.[19:30] - Discover the surprising connection between self-worth and pricing your services.[27:15] - The common pitfalls of undercharging and how it impacts your business's sustainability.[35:00] - Learn a game-changing approach to pricing that could redefine your client relationships.[42:12] - Unlock the secret to transforming your relationship with money and creating lasting impact.Resources:Applications open! her Self CEO Mastermind In-Person Retreat: Healing from Heartbreak Order Sara’s new book: Handbook for the HeartbrokenSubscribe to Sara’s Sunday JournalConnect with Sara on InstagramMentioned in this episode:her Self CEO Waitlist

Are you ready to stop feeling like an overwhelmed employee in your own business? In this episode, you’ll discover the key differences between operating as a burned-out entrepreneur versus an empowered CEO. Learn how to identify the parts of you that keep you stuck in employee mode, and explore practical strategies for stepping into leading from your True Self. We'll cover essential mindset shifts, business foundations, and sacred practices that will help you create predictable income, sustainable systems, and soul-aligned growth. Whether you're drowning in admin tasks or ready to scale with intention, this episode offers a roadmap for building your dream business from your highest Self.This is the fifth episode in our six-part her Self CEO series, where we explore how to align inner work with outer strategy to create businesses that serve both you and the world⭐ And, as a special gift, I want to offer you free access to one of my most popular programs, “The IFS Kickstarter 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.comIt’s as simple as that!In this Episode We Explore:[10:15] Exploring the often-overlooked aspects of being your own boss and navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship. What happens when running your own business feels overwhelming?[18:50] The transformation from being an overwhelmed entrepreneur to stepping into your power as an empowered CEO. What key shifts can lead to greater freedom?[25:30] Signs that you may be stuck in the overwhelmed entrepreneur mindset—do any of these resonate with you?[35:45] Unpacking the inner work needed to move onward and upward. What internal conversations lead to external transformation in your business?[45:00] Key strategies for defining business operations and creating a sustainable framework—how can planning lead to more ease?[53:20] Understanding the intersection of personal and spiritual leadership in your business journey. What does it mean to lead from a place of wholeness? Resources:Free 3-Day Workshop: Step into Your her Self CEOIn-Person Retreat: Healing from Heartbreak Order Sara’s new book: Handbook for the HeartbrokenSubscribe to Sara’s Sunday JournalConnect with Sara on InstagramMentioned in this episode:her Self CEO Waitlist