Style Therapy

Are we really living our lives, or are we constantly thinking about how to present them to the world?

In this episode, Sam reflects on our relationship with social media, the pressure to feed the algorithm, and the way documenting our experiences can sometimes pull us out of actually enjoying them.

From celebrating personal milestones to navigating conversations in real life, this is an invitation to reconsider where we give our attention and whether we've become more comfortable with the edited version of ourselves than the unfiltered experience of simply being human.

Something to reflect on:

• Am I enjoying the moment, or thinking about how to share it?
• What parts of my life could use a little less public access?
• When was the last time I did something meaningful without feeling the need to document it?

Your takeaway: Not everything needs to be posted to matter. Give yourself permission to experience life without turning every moment into content.

You can be seen without showing everything.

Happy Wardrobe Wednesday

This solo episode explores how getting dressed can be a daily practice of wellness, self-respect, and intentional self-care. Wardrobe Wednesday reflects on family influences, money-conscious dressing, and how clothing can help people feel grounded during life transitions.In this episode:

• Wardrobe Wednesday connects style to wellness and explains why getting dressed is about more than appearance.
• Family examples show how care, dignity, and presentation were modeled across generations.
• Dressing well is framed as self-respect, not status or spending more money.
• Seasonal closet routines and planned shopping trips offer lessons in intentional ownership.
• The host questions trend-chasing and asks whether a style is genuinely appealing or simply overexposed.
• Getting dressed is presented as a stabilizing ritual during unfamiliar or stressful seasons.
• The wardrobe is described as a resource and creative outlet, not just a closet full of items.
• The episode encourages asking what the body and mind need before stepping into the day.
• Listeners are invited to choose clothes that feel good, practical, and aligned with who they are becoming.

Timestamps

00:00 - Why wardrobe and wellness belong together
00:27 - Family examples of care, dignity, and presentation
00:57 - Dressing as self-respect in a political reality
01:24 - Spending wisely and making purchases fit the bigger picture
01:53 - Planned shopping trips and seasonal wardrobe storage
02:23 - Learning intentionality from closet routines
02:52 - Why chasing every trend does not appeal
03:21 - Asking whether you truly like a style or just recognize it
03:49 - Getting dressed to feel grounded during life transitions
04:18 - Wardrobe as a resource during new chapters
04:46 - Caring for yourself instead of using clothes to impress others
05:14 - Questions to ask before getting dressed each day
05:44 - Treating getting dressed as a daily practice of care
06:13 - Start with what you have and choose with intention

Listener prompt questions

• What does getting dressed with self-respect look and feel like for you?
• How do you tell whether you genuinely like a trend or are simply seeing it everywhere?
• What’s one small wardrobe ritual that helps you feel grounded or cared for?

Covered in Community

We talk a lot about independence, protecting our peace, and learning to do things on our own. But somewhere along the way, we can start treating community like an optional accessory instead of a real human need.

In this episode, we reflect on what it means to be covered by community—not just showing up for other people, but allowing ourselves to be supported, connected, and cared for, too.

From the relationships we build through our children to the friendships that help us feel understood beyond our roles as partners, parents, or professionals, community gives us room to grow. It connects us to resources, new perspectives, opportunities, and reminders that we don’t have to figure everything out alone.

But there’s a balance to consider: How do we build meaningful community without overextending ourselves or losing sight of our own needs?

Community should help us thrive, not leave us depleted. We can contribute without carrying everybody, and we can show up for others while making room for people to show up for us.

This episode invites you to rethink what community looks like in your life—and whether you’re allowing yourself to be covered, too.

Questions to Sit With

• Where in my life am I craving more connection?
• Do I make room for community, or have I convinced myself that I should be able to do everything alone?
• Am I building relationships where support goes both ways?
• Have I confused being dependable with being responsible for everybody?
• How has my need for community changed as I’ve grown, partnered, parented, or entered new seasons of life?
• What would it look like to build community without abandoning my own needs?

Your Style Therapy Homework

Take a moment to reflect on the communities you’re part of—and the ones you may want to cultivate.

Identify one relationship, gathering, or shared experience you want to invest in. Then ask yourself two things:

• How can I contribute to this community in a way that feels meaningful?
• How can I remain open to receiving support instead of always being the one who gives it?

You don’t have to be everywhere or do everything to belong somewhere.

You deserve to be covered, too.

Overpromising and underdelivering can do more than delay a project—it can erode trust and make collaboration feel like more trouble than it's worth. Sam reflects on the importance of integrity, honest communication, and following through on commitments, including why she makes mental notes when people's actions don't match their words.

Key Takeaways

• Be honest about your capacity. Don't say yes just to appear helpful when you aren't sure you can deliver.
• Clarity is kindness. If circumstances change, communicate early so others can adjust their plans.
• Your word carries weight. Good intentions matter, but follow-through builds trust.
• Pay attention to patterns. One missed commitment may be an oversight; repeated behavior should inform your expectations.
• Adjust accordingly. You can remain open to collaboration without continuing to depend on someone who consistently lets you down.
• Be honest with yourself. Before making a promise, consider whether you genuinely have the time, resources, and capacity to follow through.
• An honest no beats an unfulfilled yes. You don't have to do everything, but you should be clear about what you can offer.

Sometimes excitement can move faster than discernment. Inspired by a lesson from her mother, Sam reflects on learning to slow down, trust her instincts, and give people and opportunities enough time to reveal what’s beneath the shine.

Key Takeaways

• Take your time with new people, opportunities, and relationships.
• Pay attention to what people show you through their behavior, not just what they say.
• Excitement is not always evidence that something is right for you.
• Give yourself space to process after the initial interaction before making a decision.
• Notice when someone consistently avoids accountability or makes themselves the victim in every story.
• Trust is earned slowly. You don't have to rush closeness.
• Not every hesitation is fear—sometimes it's discernment asking for more information.
• Everything that sparkles deserves a closer look before you decide it's gold.

Motherhood has a funny way of turning everyday moments into unexpected lessons. In this episode, a simple moment with her daughter reminds Sam that the lessons she’s teaching—focus, listening, slowing down, and putting things down—are lessons she’s still learning herself.

Key Takeaways

• Slow down enough to be present, especially when your child is asking questions or trying to understand.
• Motherhood can be a mirror, revealing the habits and patterns we’re still working through ourselves.
• Multitasking can make us feel productive while leaving us scattered and overwhelmed.
• You don’t have to carry everything at once. Put something down.
• Focus on what’s directly in front of you and let the rest wait.
• Sometimes the lesson you’re giving your child is the lesson you need to hear, too.

NYFW can inspire us, but it can also quietly shape what we believe we need, creating pressure to constantly update our wardrobes. This episode takes a closer look at how external influences can create desire—and offers a simple way to pause, check in with yourself, and make more intentional purchases.

Key Takeaways

• Notice where your desire is coming from before making a purchase.
• Inspiration is welcome; it doesn't have to become an instruction.
• Ask yourself: “Did I want this before I started seeing it everywhere?”
• Before buying a trend, envision 3 different ways you’ll style and wear it.
• Shop your own closet, vintage, and secondhand before buying something new.
• Buy what you love—but make sure the love starts with you.

Tiaa B. Rutherford is an environmental scientist, urban planner, and creative entrepreneur who believes in providing natural body products that nourish the skin while preserving the environment. With a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Health Science and a Master of Environmental Planning, Tiaa has long been committed to improving her community and the environment.

Tiaa also loves artist, art, music, museums, and all things creative! She is proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc and formally a Jack & Jill of America, Inc member (now an Associate level member).

Tune in to this short discussion about sisterhood and what it means to feel safe within those relationships.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Carmelita as she shares her journey through music, entrepreneurship, spirituality, and wellness. Discover how she mastered her process, overcame fears, and embraced her authentic self to create a meaningful life and career.

Keywords:

Music journey, entrepreneurship, spirituality, wellness, mastering process, overcoming fear, authenticity, creative process, legacy, self-discovery

Key Topics:

Mastering processes in music and business

Overcoming fear and stage fright

The role of spirituality and energy in success

Building a legacy through wellness and creativity

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Carmelita Simone

02:45 The Journey of a Creative Mind

05:24 The Evolution of Music and Performance

08:08 Nail Art and Entrepreneurship

10:41 The Impact of Crystals in Art

13:16 Navigating the Music Industry

14:13 Finding Grounding in Creativity

14:13 Introduction and Spiritual Connection

14:13 Journey to New York and Early Career

17:39 Struggles and Breakthroughs in Music

20:09 Transition to LA and New Opportunities

24:29 Spiritual Growth and Influences

31:29 Uncle Leon's Wellness and Purposeful Living

36:50 Navigating the Evolving Music Industry

40:39 Focus and Manifestation in Creativity

42:06 The Journey of Self-Discovery

43:02 Personal Style and Fashion Therapy

46:51 Thrifting and Vintage Finds

47:21 The LA Experience and Its Lessons

52:25 Redefining Success

54:03 The Essence of Success

59:26 Creating Positive Change

01:02:25 lifestyle-outro-low.wav

In this engaging conversation, Sam Smith and Nina B explore themes of personal growth, authenticity, and the importance of community.

Nina shares her journey through various life seasons, including her transformation from a full-time entrepreneur to a creator of the 52 Week Experience, a healing journey that encourages self-discovery and emotional unpacking.

They discuss the challenges of loneliness, the significance of vulnerability in relationships, and the evolving nature of dating in today's world.

The conversation also touches on the importance of self-expression through fashion and the need to romanticize everyday life, ultimately emphasizing the value of connection and authenticity in all aspects of life.

Chapters

00:00 Reconnecting and Celebrating Life's Seasons

02:35 Navigating Personal Growth and Authenticity

05:14 The Journey of Healing and Transparency

07:47 The Birth of the 52 Week Experience

10:23 Unpacking Emotions and Personal Growth

12:46 Dating and Authentic Relationships in Modern Times

15:56 Embracing Vulnerability and Authenticity

18:45 Building a Supportive Community

20:53 Expressing Love and Appreciation

24:08 Finding Balance in Life and Work

25:49 Encouraging Mindfulness and Connection

29:12 Romanticizing Everyday Moments

30:03 lifestyle-outro-low.wav

In this engaging conversation, Sam Smith speaks with Jelisa Glanton, a licensed clinical social worker, about her journey into social work, the importance of authenticity in therapy, and the healing power of curiosity.

They discuss the significance of creating a safe therapeutic space, the concept of softness in healing, and how self-expression through fashion can enhance one's mental well-being. Jalisa shares her upcoming projects, including Therapeutically Crafted, which focuses on the therapeutic benefits of crafting and journaling.

Read more about Therapeutically Inclined here.

In this conversation, Sam Smith explores themes of authenticity, communication, and personal growth. She shares her journey of overcoming perfectionism, navigating family dynamics, and finding her voice in a world that often discourages self-expression. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, she emphasizes the importance of clear communication and the value of sharing one's experiences to foster understanding and connection

In this conversation, Sam Smith explores themes of personal growth, intentional living, and the importance of mindful consumption. She discusses the significance of transmuting energy into joy, the need for self-care, and the value of creative expression. Throughout the dialogue, she emphasizes the importance of spiritual practices and staying connected to one's internal guidance system, while also reflecting on the impact of media consumption on mental health.

Keywords: energy, personal growth, intentional living, spiritual practices, mindful consumption, creativity, learning, self-care, mental health, reflection.

Takeaways

• Transmuting energy can bring joy into conversations.
• It's important to be gentle with oneself and slow down.
• Mindful consumption of media can enhance personal growth.
• Creative expression is vital for mental well-being.
• Practicing spirituality can provide grounding and clarity.
• Engaging in intentional living leads to better outcomes.
• Reflection on personal experiences fosters growth.
• Learning through practice enhances skills and creativity.
• Staying connected to one's internal guidance is crucial.
• Removing oneself from negative influences is necessary for mental health.

• Transmuting Energy: A Journey of Personal Growth
• Intentional Living: Embracing Spiritual Practices

• "I'm thankful for my internal guidance system"
• "What can I change? How can I do better?"
• "I talk to God all the time"

In this conversation, Sam Smith explores the intricate relationship between fashion, brand perception, and personal value. He discusses the influence of major brands, particularly in the context of manufacturing in China, and how consumerism shapes our understanding of luxury. Smith emphasizes the need for individuals to reevaluate their values and create their own definitions of luxury, moving away from traditional brand narratives.takeaways

• Fashion is heavily influenced by brand perception and consumerism.
• China plays a significant role in global manufacturing and fashion.
• Brand brainwashing affects how we perceive luxury and status.
• Accessibility to luxury brands is often limited by social constructs.
• There is a shift towards redefining what luxury means to individuals.
• Creativity should be prioritized over brand loyalty.
• The conversation around fashion is evolving, allowing for new narratives.
• Personal style can be a form of self-expression and empowerment.
• Understanding the manufacturing process can change consumer behavior.
• We have the power to create a more inclusive definition of luxury.

In this episode of *Style Therapy*, I dive into the powerful intersection of fashion, wellness, and personal growth. I share my thoughts on the importance of community and sustainability, and how AI can really simplify our lives. I'll encourage you to engage in some spring cleaning—not just for your wardrobe, but for your personal life, too! We'll talk about finding balance and pacing ourselves in our ambitions, emphasizing that nurturing our spaces and letting go of what no longer serves us is crucial for self-care and growth.

This past weekend, I got lost! I told the hubby and the little one I needed a moment to reset and recharge, packed a bag and left for two overnight scenarios.

My retreat weekend revealed:

I have been accepting bread crumbs (the bare minimum), but no more.

Having a Werkbook will help to keep me uplifted and focused on maintaining higher vibes and goals

I really Love my family and I'm so thankful for the ways they aid my growth.

Also, my good friend Shauna K is someone you should know.

Here is your challenge:

What shape does your solitude take? Is it a weekend away? A segment of your day? Give some thought to how you can take a moment away from the world to refill your own cup.

Check out this pre-recorded episode from Two Moms Talk with Angela Solomon!

I had the opportunity of sharing some of the starter stages of my entrepreneur journey. I hope these words encourage someone to move forward with that idea you've been sitting on.

"Our trauma shows up in everything we do, from the way that we love to the way that we parent if we have children. And, of course, it shows up in our business as entrepreneurs."

Each new experience is a chance to learn more about ourselves and the world around us. And that is why it's essential to live a life by our own rules and definition of success.

Exceptional Highlights:

• If we're not honest with ourselves, we are on autopilot. We will be in general spaces, not in our signature. Seeking external validation is never the move.

• Entrepreneurship is important, but it's not everything. Though I do want to be successful, I want to have balance and time for family.

• The world feeds messages that make us feel we aren't enough. So it's up to us to protect and nurture ourselves; nobody is going to put on a cape and rescue us.

Support the show

IMPORTANT LINKS AND RESOURCES

• Learn more about ⁠Healing Hardwear⁠ here!

• Who is Sam? ⁠Read more⁠

CONNECT WITH ME:

• IG - @NewViintagebySam

• LI- Sam Smith

This episode we take a moment to slow down and tune in. Listen as I share a little bit about what's on my mind and in my heart.

Keep taking care of you!
Visit www.NewVintagebySam.com to check out The Healing Hardwear collection.
Follow @NewVintagebySam on Instagram for updates and to submit your questions.

Peopling post COVID has been an adjustment and here is the processing space for the after effects of masks and hella screen watching. This episode is dedicated to the cool cats, empaths, entrepreneurs and ambiverts that just want to create cool shxt without the weird shxt.