In this episode of Coached Soul, Dr. Steve Hudgins offers an insightful exploration of how childhood experiences shape emotional development and personal growth, using the classic novel To Kill a Mockingbird as a central lens. Speaking from both clinical expertise and personal reflection, Dr. Hudgins revisits the story of young Scout Finch growing up in racially segregated 1930s Alabama, highlighting the novel’s powerful themes of innocence, injustice, and empathy.

Listeners are guided through the ways children interpret and internalize the events around them—particularly the confusing or painful ones—and how silence, avoidance, or a lack of honest explanation can deepen fears or misunderstandings. Drawing from both the novel and real-life cases, Dr. Hudgins underscores the importance of being present, listening carefully, and helping children make sense of their emotions and experiences.

This episode encourages adults to become safe narrators and guides for the next generation, emphasizing that fostering resilience and healing often begins with empathy, honest communication, and a willingness to see the world through a child’s eyes. Through the journey of Scout Finch, Dr. Hudgins invites the audience to reflect on their own formative experiences and discover ways to support and nurture the emotional well-being of children—and, in the process, themselves.

Key Moments;

01:20 Moon Observations and Scout Insights

04:56 Childhood and Racism in "Mockingbird"

09:20 Shift from Innocence to Insight

11:34 Understanding Children's Fears

14:58 "Manage Life, Don't Control Fear"

17:12 Guiding Children Through Life's Confusion

About Coached Soul™:

Coached Soul™ is an empowering podcast hosted by Dr. Steve Hudgins, a mental health professional and author, and co-hosted by Kenya Whaley, a transformational therapeutic coach. With a focus on self-improvement, Dr. Steve covers many topics, including mental health, relationships, education, and more. He fearlessly tackles sensitive subjects like depression and anxiety, creating a safe space for open conversations. They offer valuable insights and lessons through interviews with guests who have overcome significant challenges. Coached Soul is not just a podcast but a supportive community that inspires personal growth and provides the necessary resources for transformation. Their expertise and genuine approach make Coached Soul a must-listen for anyone seeking to improve their life.

For more details, visit https://coachedsoul.com/

In this episode, host Dr. Steve Hudgins, and co host Kenya Evelyn take us on a transformative journey centered around the theme of freedom, not just as a right, but as a profound responsibility.

Together, they unpack what it means to be free truly: from limiting beliefs, from the old wounds of our inner child, and from the “chains” we forge in our own minds. They discuss how the words we use shape our reality, why taking ownership of our thoughts is crucial for growth, and how personal freedom blooms when we step into self-awareness, love, and gratitude. Kenya and Dr. Steve share powerful tools and exercises, from high-five mirror techniques to playful self-permission, inviting us all to celebrate happiness right here and now.

Join them as they challenge the language of limitation, examine the power of self-reflection, and encourage us to see others—and ourselves—as mirrors for healing and change. If you’re searching for inspiration to break free from old patterns and live a life of peace, purpose, and authentic connection, this episode offers both practical wisdom and heartfelt encouragement.

Let’s embark on this journey toward a healthier, happier you—starting with the freedom to be your truest self.

Key Moments:

01:12 "Exploring Freedom and Responsibility"

05:20 Challenging Limiting Thoughts

07:39 Breakthroughs Through Language & Love

10:29 "Freedom's Cost: A Survivor's Choice"

13:44 Reflect on Self-Creation and Awareness

17:56 Celebrate Your True Self

About Coached Soul™:

Coached Soul™ is an empowering podcast hosted by Dr. Steve Hudgins, a mental health professional and author, and co-hosted by Kenya Whaley, a transformational therapeutic coach. With a focus on self-improvement, Dr. Steve covers many topics, including mental health, relationships, education, and more. He fearlessly tackles sensitive subjects like depression and anxiety, creating a safe space for open conversations. They offer valuable insights and lessons through interviews with guests who have overcome significant challenges. Coached Soul is not just a podcast but a supportive community that inspires personal growth and provides the necessary resources for transformation. Their expertise and genuine approach make Coached Soul a must-listen for anyone seeking to improve their life.

For more details, visit https://coachedsoul.com/

Continuing from the last episode, host Dr. Steve Hudgins continues his discussion with guest Bonnie Brindle, an educator, therapist, and author. Together, they explore the critical but often overlooked connection between hormones and anxiety, especially for women navigating the tumultuous transition into perimenopause and menopause.

Bonnie shares her personal journey through the throes of hormonal changes, recounting how anxiety and physical symptoms nearly derailed her career until she found solutions that worked for her. The episode expands beyond the physical, delving into holistic mental health care, the power of nature-based imagery, and Bonnie’s unique use of “wildlife guides” to ground and soothe anxious thoughts. Listeners will hear practical tips from her book, Cracking the Crazy Makers Code, learn about the importance of confronting the root of anxiety, and get honest advice about seeking professional help when medical or emotional challenges arise.

With relatable anecdotes, actionable takeaways, and warmth, Dr. Steve and Bonnie remind us that finding balance is possible—and that no one has to travel the path to healing alone. Settle in for inspiring conversation and real-world strategies to cultivate a happier, healthier you.

Key Moments:

03:14 Perimenopause Onset and Symptoms

07:54 Hormonal Solution Restores Balance

11:06 "Imaginary Friend to Spiritual Guide"

14:27 "Memoir: Overcoming Anxiety with Nature"

18:48 "Mindful Strategies and Practical Tips"

20:20 "Breaking Free from Crazy Makers"

25:13 Journey of a Therapist's Evolution

26:25 Therapists: Support, Not Superheroes

About the Guest :

Bonnie Brindle is The Anxiety Avenger™. She is a psychotherapist, author, licensed educator, transformational coach, and international speaker. Incorporating alternative modalities with talk therapy and evidence-based energy practices, she’s created a path for anyone struggling with anxiety (like she used to) to find personal peace. Bonnie’s mission is to support others who choose to soar above the chaos to identify and crack the crazymakers' code—the key to living your best life!

How to connect Bonnie :

Website: https://bonniebrindle.com

SpeakerHub site: bonniebrindlespeaks.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bonnie-brindle-the-anxiety-avenger/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bonnie.brindle.94

About Coached Soul™:

Coached Soul™ is an empowering podcast hosted by Dr. Steve Hudgins, a mental health professional and author, and co-hosted by Kenya Whaley, a transformational therapeutic coach. With a focus on self-improvement, Dr. Steve covers many topics, including mental health, relationships, education, and more. He fearlessly tackles sensitive subjects like depression and anxiety, creating a safe space for open conversations. They offer valuable insights and lessons through interviews with guests who have overcome significant challenges. Coached Soul is not just a podcast but a supportive community that inspires personal growth and provides the necessary resources for transformation. Their expertise and genuine approach make Coached Soul a must-listen for anyone seeking to improve their life.

For more details, visit https://coachedsoul.com/