Can I Just Say? with Nikki La Croce
Can I Just Say? is a phrase that I often say and one which is deeply rooted in the essence of who I am. It is how I enter conversations, initiate connection, and invite people to share their stories. The idea being that this is a platform and community where guests and listeners have the freedom to say whatever is on your mind and in your heart. So, when somebody leads with, “Can I just say?”, my answer is an emphatic “YES.” As I embark on this next stage of my podcasting journey, guests will be going beyond what’s expected and diving into the more raw, vulnerable parts of their stories that don’t often get enough air time or perhaps they’ve never shared before. In keeping aligned with my personal values, I am focused on building a community of cycle-breakers who want to connect and grow together.
Episodes
7 days ago
7 days ago
In this final episode of Can I Just Say?, I share my heartfelt gratitude and reflect on the profound journey this podcast has taken me on over the past five years. From leaving an abusive relationship to navigating grief and self-discovery, the show has been a pivotal part of my life. I discuss the impactful conversations I've had, the lessons learned, and the personal growth experienced. As I say goodbye, I also announce an exciting new chapter with a new podcast, Healthy Love with Nic and Nik, focusing on self-love and relationship dynamics. Join me as I reflect on this incredible journey and look forward to the future.
00:00 Introduction and Final Episode Announcement00:55 Reflecting on the Journey02:56 Personal Growth and Challenges03:59 Lessons Learned from Conversations05:26 The Power of Vulnerability07:14 Future Plans and Gratitude09:35 New Beginnings
If you want to keep up to date with our new podcast and other content, Healthy Love with Nic + Nik, be sure to subscribe on Youtube.
Follow on IG: https://www.instagram.com/nic_and_nikFollow on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nic_and_nik #healthylove #relationshippodcast #personalgrowthjourney #selfimprovement #selflove
Tuesday Oct 29, 2024
Tuesday Oct 29, 2024
In this special episode of Can I Just Say?, I sit down with my oldest and dearest friend, Erin Renner Steg, affectionately known as Renner. We reflect on our lifelong friendship and how it has persisted through different stages of our lives. Despite our differing paths and the physical distance between us, our bond remains strong. We discuss our childhood experiences, emotional growth, the importance of vulnerability, and the challenges of receiving feedback. Erin shares how becoming a parent has influenced her emotional intelligence and how she now models emotional regulation for her children. The conversation highlights the value of honest communication in maintaining deep and meaningful relationships as well as the growth that comes from being open to feedback and facing life's challenges together.
Episode Chapters:
00:00 Introducing Erin, my oldest friend
02:00 Reflecting on Childhood and Friendship
04:25 Balancing Family and Personal Life
07:40 Emotional Growth and Perfectionism
18:30 Support and Tough Conversations
48:49 Learning to Seek Support Beyond Your Partner
54:00 Handling Emotional Reactions and Processing
56:40 The Importance of Trust in Communication
01:03:20 Parenting and Emotional Awareness
01:09:45 The Power to Choose Your Reactions
01:17:27 Constructive Feedback and Personal Growth
01:24:55 The Value of Lifelong Friendships
🎙️ Check out more content from Can I Just Say?
https://canijustsaypodcast.com/
📺 Subscribe on Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/@nic_and_nik
Tuesday Sep 24, 2024
Tuesday Sep 24, 2024
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In this episode, my partner Nicole and I dive into the transformative power of self-love, the joy of witnessing others' growth, and the importance of sharing experiences to support each other. We reflect on mentorship, discuss the rush of seeing friends evolve, and explore methods to cultivate self-love. From handling insecurities to practical advice on meditation and self-awareness, join us as we share personal stories and insights aimed at helping you unlock your true potential.
✨ If you're seeking meaningful connections and a supportive community, visit FullSpectrumFriends.com to join the waitlist!
💡 Download our workbook to Identify Your Core Values:https://fullspectrumfriends.com/identify-your-core-values-workbook
👉 Follow Full Spectrum Friends for insights, inspiration and connection: https://instagram.com/fullspectrumfriends
Episode Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
00:33 The Joy of Watching Others Grow
00:52 Mentorship and Personal Fulfillment
01:34 The Rush of Transformation
03:22 Organic Conversations and Aha Moments
05:47 Understanding Healthy Attachments
09:31 Taking Steps toward Self-Love
13:54 Meditation and Self-Reflection
20:05 Balancing External Validation and Self-Discovery
27:20 The Importance of Self-Love and Gratitude
34:52 Attracting the Right Relationships
37:51 Trusting the Timing of Life
40:28 Join Our Community, Full Spectrum Friends
Tuesday Sep 03, 2024
Tuesday Sep 03, 2024
In this episode of 'Can I Just Say,' I sit down with Jewel to explore the transformative power of vulnerability and breaking away from social perfectionism. We delve into how societal expectations and the loneliness epidemic affect our ability to forge meaningful connections. Jewel shares her personal journey of embracing vulnerability and setting healthy boundaries, which has allowed her to build deeper relationships. We discuss the science behind lasting friendships, the importance of open communication, and the balancing act between self-compassion and holding space for tough emotions. Through personal stories and practical insights, we encourage you to reflect on your own relationships and highlight the role of empathy and active effort in forming genuine, sustainable friendships.
🎧 Episode Chapters:00:00 Introduction: The Pressure of Social Perception00:58 The Importance of Authentic Relationships01:30 Diving into the Conversation with Jewel03:42 Understanding Social Anxiety and Perfectionism04:45 The Loneliness Epidemic and Its Impact06:50 Building Meaningful Connections11:10 The Role of Boundaries in Friendships13:25 The Fluidity of Friendships21:32 Social Perfectionism and Its Challenges23:58 The Reveal: Fear of Being Truly Seen30:11 Personal Growth and Self-Acceptance33:11 Overcoming Shame and Embracing Change35:18 Self-Compassion and Objectivity36:38 Understanding Social Perfectionism37:40 Navigating Rejection and Emotional Safety43:01 The Importance of Vulnerability in Friendships46:54 Repairing and Deepening Relationships57:13 The Role of Jealousy and Competition01:02:10 Empathy and Boundaries in Friendships01:02:58 Understanding Yourself to Connect with Others01:09:23 Creating Meaningful Friendships01:12:23 Effort and Vulnerability in Building Connections
********************************************🤝 Work with Jewel:https://www.connectionwithjewel.com/
🎙️ Listen to The Socially Delight-full Podcast with Jewel: https://www.connectionwithjewel.com/podcast
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📺 Subscribe to Can I Just Say? on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@nicandnik
👉 Follow Me:https://instagram.com/nikkilacrocehttps://tiktok.com/@nikkilacrocehttps://facebook.com/@canijustsaypodcasthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkilacroce/
Tuesday Aug 27, 2024
Tuesday Aug 27, 2024
In this deeply engaging episode, I reconnect with my dear friend, Christina Carlson for a heartfelt conversation about life's many intricate layers. During our conversation, we explore the challenges and limitations of traditional education and the significance of acknowledging different types of intelligence. We also delve into complex themes of control, trauma response, and the process of evolving into more self-aware and connected individuals. Both of us share our personal journeys of understanding and managing our needs for control, the importance of self-compassion, and creating supportive and safe environments. If you're a deep thinker who appreciates pondering life's many questions, this episode offers a rich tapestry of insights into the human experience.
🎧 Episode Chapters:
00:00 Reconnecting with an Old Friend
01:45 Connecting with Nature and Spirituality
04:47 Late Night Curiosity and Google Searches
07:38 Rethinking Education and Learning
25:13 Balancing Personal Well-being and Global Issues
34:02 The Complexity of Control in Relationships
43:13 The Role of Community in Healing
49:39 The Duality of Self-Love and Ethical Living
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🤝 Work with Christina: https://www.christinamcarlson.com/
👉 Follow Christina:
https://tiktok.com/@christinaclifecoach
https://www.instagram.com/christinacarlsonlifecoach/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/careercoachingwithchristina
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📺 Subscribe to Can I Just Say? on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@nicandnik
👉 Follow Me:https://instagram.com/nikkilacrocehttps://tiktok.com/@nikkilacrocehttps://facebook.com/@canijustsaypodcasthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkilacroce/
Tuesday Aug 20, 2024
Tuesday Aug 20, 2024
In this episode, I share the mic with Matt Gerlach to dive deep into the journey of overcoming personal shame and nurturing self-love. We discuss the challenges in setting boundaries, handling familial relationships, and addressing imposter syndrome. Together, we explore the impact of societal expectations and the importance of accepting positive feedback and affirming oneself amidst external validation. With candid personal anecdotes and practical advice, we highlight the significance of acknowledging and challenging our inner critics. Join us for a raw, relatable conversation filled with insights and strategies for finding inner peace and embracing your true self, as we continue to inspire each other toward self-acceptance and growth.
🎧 Episode Chapters:
00:00 Introducing Matt Gerlach
05:36 Reflecting on Childhood and Emotional Health
10:59 Navigating Financial and Emotional Stress
14:49 Confronting Masculinity and Emotions
22:25 The Role of Shame and Self-Awareness
31:52 Setting Boundaries and Self-Advocacy
36:50 Balancing Responsibilities and Expectations
38:52 The Importance of Boundaries in Relationships
41:13 Facing Personal Shame and Growth
42:45 Challenges of Setting Boundaries with Family
46:43 Understanding and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
57:27 The Role of External Validation in Self-Worth
01:04:48 The Practice of Self-Compassion
********************************************🎙️ Listen to Matt’s podcast, MATTers of the Mind:https://bit.ly/3Az2nVx
✨ Work with Matt:https://mattgerlach.com/
💡 Learn more about Matt’s coaching program, Rise to Your Worth:https://mattgerlach.com/coaching/
👉 Follow Matt: https://www.instagram.com/iammattgerlach/https://www.tiktok.com/@iammattgerlach
********************************************📺 Subscribe to Can I Just Say? on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@nicandnik
👉 Follow Me:https://instagram.com/nikkilacrocehttps://tiktok.com/@nikkilacrocehttps://facebook.com/@canijustsaypodcasthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkilacroce/
Tuesday Aug 13, 2024
Tuesday Aug 13, 2024
In this captivating episode, I'm thrilled to have a deep and insightful conversation with Emily O'Neal, an evidential psychic medium and founder of Blooming Wand. We explore the importance of intentional spiritual connection, the ethics of mediumship, and the evolution of Emily's extrasensory abilities. We also discuss how to trust your intuition and the significance of finding a supportive community while navigating your spiritual journey.
Emily shares practical advice on differentiating genuine intuition from biases and the value of intentional training in mediumship. Whether you're curious about spiritual practices or looking to deepen your own journey, this episode is packed with insights and practical tips to enhance your spiritual and personal growth. Join us for this enlightening conversation and empower yourself to trust your intuition and develop your spiritual path.
🎧 Episode Chapters:
00:00 Introducing Emily O'Neal
02:18 Exploring Extrasensory Abilities
07:08 Personal Spiritual Journeys
17:41 Understanding Intuition and Trust
34:41 Spiritual Bypassing and Ethical Considerations
46:56 Moving From Skepticism to Acceptance
51:46 Connecting with Spirit Guides
53:28 The Journey of Mediumship Development
55:42 The Role of Community in Spiritual Growth
01:18:14 Balancing Bias and Spiritual Practice
01:23:58 Concluding Thoughts and Resources
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🤝 Work with Emily: https://bloomingwand.com/
👉 Follow Emily on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blooming_wand/
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📺 Subscribe to Can I Just Say? on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@nikkilacroce
👉 Follow Me:https://instagram.com/nikkilacrocehttps://tiktok.com/@nikkilacrocehttps://facebook.com/@canijustsaypodcasthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkilacroce/
Tuesday Aug 06, 2024
Tuesday Aug 06, 2024
In this episode, I share the mic with Andrew as we discuss the importance of capturing stories and the intentional paths we carve in our lives to make a positive impact. Andrew shares insights from his ventures, including the creation and growth of his company, No Story Lost. We touch on the value of preserving family stories, the significance of values in personal and professional arenas, and the challenges and joys of entrepreneurship. This thoughtful conversation offers practical advice on living with purpose, embracing connections, and continually evolving towards true fulfillment.
🎧 Episode Chapters:
00:00 Introducing Andrew Hall
01:17 Family Stories and the Birth of No Story Lost
03:48 Capturing Memories: Techniques and Reflections
13:51 The Importance of Values and Self-Reflection
24:35 Combining Strengths for Unique Success
28:28 Exploring Personal Strengths and Building Connections
29:25 The Intersection of Passion and Community Building
31:05 Reflections on Purpose and Impact
32:55 Lessons from Early Life and Career
35:34 Navigating Business Challenges and Social Enterprise
46:29 The Importance of Collaboration and Motivation
51:49 Pursuing Purpose and Personal Growth
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Document your family’s legacy with No Story Lost: https://nostorylost.com/
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📺 Subscribe to Can I Just Say? on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@nikkilacroce
👉 Follow Me:https://instagram.com/nikkilacrocehttps://tiktok.com/@nikkilacrocehttps://facebook.com/@canijustsaypodcasthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkilacroce/
Tuesday Jul 30, 2024
Tuesday Jul 30, 2024
In this deeply moving episode of 'Can I Just Say?', I sit down with the incredible Aliza Hava, a singer, songwriter, and activist, whose life journey takes us through the intersections of trauma, healing, and the transformative power of music. Aliza shares her experiences growing up in a violent household, finding solace and purpose in music, and how she shifted her focus from activism to personal healing. We delve into the intimate stories behind her upcoming album, 'Into The Light,' which captures her journey from trauma to triumph. Aliza also talks about her international peace work, the serendipitous events that guided her path, and the profound impact of spiritual awakening. This episode offers a heartfelt exploration of how music can heal individuals and unite communities, and it promises to inspire listeners to reflect on their own healing journeys.
🎧 Episode Chapters:
00:52 Meet Aliza Hava: Singer, Songwriter, and Activist
02:31 Aliza's Early Life and Musical Beginnings
05:34 The Healing Power of Music
13:43 Activism and Peace Initiatives
28:41 The Turning Point: Breaking Free from Toxic Family Ties
31:44 Healing Through Music: The Journey of 'Into the Light'
34:29 The Impact of Trauma and the Path to Recovery
44:00 Spiritual Awakening and Serendipitous Encounters
51:34 Sharing Stories and Inspiring Healing
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Visit Aliza’s website to check out her new album, “Into The Light” and upcoming shows:https://alizahava.com/
Listen to Aliza’s music🎧 Spotify🍎 Apple
Follow Aliza:InstagramYoutube
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📺 Subscribe to Can I Just Say? on Youtube
👉 Follow Nikki:InstagramTikTokFacebookLinkedIn
Monday Jul 22, 2024
Monday Jul 22, 2024
In this episode, I share the mic with Susan Padron, an intuitive personal stylist, to discuss the transformative power of fashion in expressing our true selves. Susan opens up about her journey of self-discovery and how it influenced her to exit her career as a teacher to pursue her passion for fashion. We chat about the importance of authenticity, the courage to embrace discomfort, and the art of balancing strength with gentleness in our personal presence. Susan shares her insights on helping clients feel like the best versions of themselves through personal styling and color analysis. If you’ve ever questioned your style or sought inspiration for self-growth, you won’t want to miss this treasure of an episode.
🎧 Episode Chapters
00:44 Meet Susan Padron: Intuitive Stylist01:50 The Journey to Self-Discovery03:11 Challenges of Personal Style06:45 Embracing Androgynous Fashion10:01 Navigating Shopping Anxiety12:53 The Power of Playful Accessories16:23 Building Confidence Through Style27:10 Learning to Accept Compliments31:46 Susan's Path to Becoming a Personal Stylist37:32 Embracing Self-Expression Through Tattoos39:05 Breaking Free from Professional Constraints42:23 Exploring Our Identity Beyond Roles46:19 Navigating Clothing Choices and Self-Confidence51:11 Generational Perspectives on Self-Expression57:32 The Impact of Authenticity on Parenting
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🤝 Work with Susan: https://susanpadronstylist.com/
🎙️ Listen to Susan's Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-susan-padron-podcast/id1686474279
📓 Join Susan's Intuitive Style Masterclass:https://susanpadronstylist.com/masterclass
👉 Follow Susan:https://www.instagram.com/susanpadron_stylist/
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📺 Subscribe to Can I Just Say? on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@nikkilacroce
👉 Follow Me:https://instagram.com/nikkilacrocehttps://tiktok.com/@nikkilacrocehttps://facebook.com/@canijustsaypodcasthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkilacroce/