In this episode of Phoenix and Flame, host Dana Skaggs sits down with three-time bestselling author and forgiveness coach Katharine Giovanni to talk about the idea of forgiveness—we’re told to do it, but rarely taught how. Katharine explains that forgiveness isn’t about excusing someone’s behavior or even reconciling with them; it’s a tool for your own healing. She shares a practical, step-by-step method for releasing the emotional charge from painful memories so you can stop letting people live “rent-free” in your head. Along the way, she highlights the connection between forgiveness and boundaries, showing that letting go of anger doesn’t mean letting someone back into your life.

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In this episode, host Dana Skaggs sits down with Kristal Desantis to talk about why traditional masculinity is struggling in modern relationships. Kristal describes what she calls the “broken script,” where old-school roles of men as sole protectors and providers clash with today’s need for emotional partnership. This leaves a lot of men caught in a “masculinity trap”—criticized for being too stoic but judged when they open up. The two dive into topics like emotional safety, touch starvation, and the pressure to measure up to narrow definitions of worth. Kristal also shares her “STRONG” model, a down-to-earth framework to help men move past performative roles and create healthier, more genuine connections.

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In this episode, host Dana Skaggs is joined by fellow boundaries coach Barb Nangle, who shares her journey of navigating what she calls "relational trauma." She reveals how trauma can take the form of a quiet, ongoing pattern of emotional invalidation, not just a sudden, explosive moment. Through 12-step recovery, Barb discovered a path to healing and reframes boundary-setting as an act of integrity and peace rather than confrontation. This conversation offers insight into how these practices can help you live with greater alignment and purpose.

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