Inspired Questions: Conversations on Self-Worth, Burnout & Showing Up Authentically

Building the Life You Actually Want (Not the One You Think You Should): A Conversation with Jodie Heffren

Ruth interviews Jodie Heffren — a registered nurse turned breathwork facilitator and cold-plunge guide who created Rooted Woodland after moving to the Blue Mountains. They discuss how Jodie built her nature-based retreats, hosts women-focused (and some mixed) events, and offers off-grid cabin stays, while using breathwork, cold plunges, saunas and community to support transformation.
The conversation explores big themes: outgrowing old beliefs, learning to ask for help, boundaries, self-care routines to prevent burnout, and the power of vulnerability and community. The episode closes with practical tips and an invitation to Ruth’s pay-what-you-can Tuesday evening meditation class.
You can find Jodie on Instagram @rootedwoodland and her website is https://rootedwoodland.com/

The Reset Button That Actually Works

Welcome back to another episode of Inspired Questions with Ruth, where we explore big questions and honest stories about living a grounded and true life. This episode is a reminder that you are not broken and you don’t need to have everything figured out. We’ll dive into the power of breath - a simple yet transformative practice that can bring you back to yourself, helping you shift from stress to peace. Join us as we take a moment to breathe, embrace our humanity, and remember that deep within, you are strong and whole. There's no need to perform or have all the answers; you just need to be.

Embracing Self-Love and Acceptance

In this heartfelt episode of Inspired Questions, host Ruth delves into the complexities of self-love and acceptance, sharing her personal journey towards embracing her body. Through candid reflections, Ruth invites listeners to explore their own paths of healing, while challenging societal pressures and self-judgment. Join Ruth as she encourages us to start a daily gratitude practice and step into a community of support and understanding.

The Moment I Stopped Caring: What Burnout Took from Me — and What I Got Back

Join Ruth in this emotionally raw and real episode of Inspired Questions, where she delves into her personal experience with burnout and the journey of reclaiming herself. This episode isn't about quick fixes or generic advice; it's a heartfelt sharing that reveals the struggles and realizations from living in burnout to rediscovering self-worth and courage.Ruth reflects on recognizing the warning signs of burnout, societal pressures, and her path to healing through vulnerability, therapy, and meditation. She emphasizes the importance of redefining success and self-worth while encouraging listeners to embrace their own stories of struggle and recovery.This conversation is a testament to the power of vulnerability and genuine connection as Ruth shares her truth to inspire others to speak out and seek healing. Tune in to experience an honest dialogue about life's deeper questions and foster a space for growth and renewal.

Empowering Women in Health and Fitness with Deb Sloan

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Deb Sloan, a registered dietitian, fitness trainer, and mom, as she shares her journey of navigating health, nutrition, and wellness. Discover how Deb transitioned from art history to dietetics, living with type 1 diabetes and celiac disease, and passionately advocating for women's health during crucial stages like perimenopause and menopause. This episode offers valuable insights into balancing career, personal life, and self-care, with strategies for grounding oneself amidst life's chaos. Gain inspiration from Deb's dedication to empowering her clients through personalized nutrition and fitness guidance.
You can find Deb on IG at @dietitiandebs or her website debsloanhealthysolutions.com

Finding Grace Through Grief and Growth: Edie Gudaitis' Journey Part 2

Join host Ruth Hirshberg in part two of her insightful conversation with Edie Gudaitis on the "Inspired Questions" podcast. This episode dives deep into the complexities of emotions, boundaries, and the journey of letting go of perfectionism. Listen as Ruth and Edie candidly share their personal struggles and triumphs, exploring themes of vulnerability, self-awareness, and the courage to be authentic.
Throughout the episode, Ruth and Edie reflect on the challenges of overcoming insecurities and the transformative power of sharing one's truth. They discuss the importance of setting boundaries, processing emotions, and finding balance in life's chaos. Whether you're seeking inspiration or comfort in knowing you're not alone in your journey, this episode offers a heartfelt exploration of what it means to embrace your true self.
You can find Edie on her website https://ediegudaitiswellness.com/ or Instagram ediegudaitis.wellness. You can also listen to Edie's podcast You're Already Whole.

When Keeping it Together Starts Pulling You Apart

Welcome to Inspired Questions with Ruth Hirshberg, unfolding a deeply personal narrative in response to recent events. Ruth candidly shares her struggle to balance a dual identity, revealing the tension between public persona and private emotions amidst a backdrop of global conflict. This episode explores themes of authenticity, transparency, and the challenge of maintaining one's values while navigating fear and societal pressures.
Ruth reflects on her Jewish heritage and the impact of anti-Semitism, delving into the complexities of personal and professional life. She shares intimate experiences from her past, grappling with internal conflict, and her journey to reconcile them with her public life.
Listen as Ruth finds her voice, offering insights on courage, fear, and the imperative of speaking out, despite the risks. Her story provides resonance for anyone feeling caught between professional duties and personal truth.
Join Ruth in this heartfelt exploration of fear, hope, and the enduring power of authentic connection.

Finding Grace Through Grief and Growth: Edie Gudaitis' Journey

In this episode of Inspired Questions, host Ruth Hirshberg welcomes Edie Gudaitis — a yoga teacher, breathwork coach, and best-selling author — to explore her transformative journey from the corporate world to wellness. Edie shares her personal story of overcoming grief, navigating life's challenges, and finding her passion for teaching yoga and hosting retreats. Discover how Edie uses movement, meditation, and breath work to help others heal and grow. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about embracing change, empowering women, and finding equilibrium in life.
You can find Edie on her website https://ediegudaitiswellness.com/ or Instagram ediegudaitis.wellness. You can also listen to Edie's podcast You're Already Whole.

Bouncing Back: A Return, A Shift, and What’s Next

After an unexpected (and very human) pause, I’m back on the mic. In this heartfelt solo episode, I share where I’ve been, why I stepped away, and how life, healing, and a few curveballs have reshaped my path.
I talk about recovery, burnout, letting go of perfectionism, and how I’m learning to show up more authentically—for myself and for you. I also share what’s next for the podcast and my work with Grounding with Ruth, including a new online course, growing my presence in the wellness space, and my deepening passion for meditation.
This isn’t goodbye—it’s a gentle pivot. The podcast will continue, with a new rhythm, new intentions, and a lot of heart.
In this episode, I share:
Why the podcast went quiet (and what I’ve been navigating behind the scenes)
What healing really looked like this time around
A look at what I’m building with Grounding with Ruth
What you can expect from the podcast moving forward
A big thank you to you, my incredible listeners 💛
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Piercings & Personal Growth: A Conversation with Kelsi Russell

In this captivating episode, we welcome Kelsi Russell, a professional body piercer from Ottawa, as she shares her unique journey into the world of body piercing. Discover how Kelsey transitioned from art school ambitions to mastering the craft of piercing, all while juggling a job at a vet clinic. She opens up about her compassionate approach to handling young clients and the importance of patience and empathy in her work.
Kelsey also discusses the challenges of being self-employed, setting boundaries, and dealing with imposter syndrome in the piercing industry. She offers personal insights into handling life's transitions, from relationship changes to career shifts, and highlights the value of therapy and self-care in maintaining balance.
This episode is a deep dive into the artistry and dedication behind body piercing, complete with honest reflections on personal growth, perseverance, and the power of making big, sometimes challenging, life decisions.