This week, I’m getting real about change — the kind that’s exciting and terrifying all at once. I just dropped Joost off at the airport, and in a few weeks, I’ll be packing up my life in Gauteng and moving to Knysna. It’s the start of something beautiful, but also the end of a season I’ve loved deeply.

In this episode, I open up about what it feels like to let go of a place that’s been home, the people who’ve become family, and the fear that comes with stepping into the unknown. If you’ve ever had to make a big, scary decision — one that you know is right, but still hurts — this one’s for you.

with love - Monique xoxo

In this episode of The Next Chapter Podcast, I open up about what it’s really like living with your boyfriend when you’re a Christian. 🌿

It’s one of those topics that doesn’t get spoken about enough — the mix of love, faith, guilt, growth, and all the small moments in between.

I share my personal experience — the lessons I’ve learned, the moments I’ve wrestled with faith, and the unexpected ways God has still shown up in my relationship.

You’ll hear:

✨ 2 things I’ve love about living with my boyfriend

⚖️ 2 challenges that come with it (especially from a faith perspective)

💬 Honest reflections on boundaries, guilt, and growth 💡 How to stay rooted in your faith, even when your life looks different than you expected

This episode isn’t about judgment — it’s about real life, real faith, and the grace that meets us right where we are.

Connect with Me: 🎧 Follow The Next Chapter Podcast for more honest chats about faith, love, and figuring out your 20s.💌 Let’s talk — DM me on Instagram TheNextChapterpod with your thoughts or questions. 📺

Announcement!!!!

I will be launching a new episode every Monday morning, afternoon or night because who doesn't like some alternating.

and The Next Chapter, is also going on YouTube!!! so now you can also see me while I talk to you.

I am so excited.

See you in my next episode on Monday morning sharp at 8:00.

with love - your host Monique.

What a complicated question to ask.

Did you heal from your trauma? how do we analyze this question actually?

TBH I really don't know how to answer this question - but I can tell you how I am starting my healing journey, listen this podcast and please give me some feedback on what you think and how you heal.

And check out my Instagram story and feed for my list I am going to use for the next 6 weeks to boost my healing journey.

love - your host Monique xoxo

This is my Trauma story and what I went through, with not sharing that many details on the subject - I think I went through abuse so that I can share my story and help others through what they are going through.

Trauma is not something we need to take lightly in my opinion and something that someone who went through abuse struggles with daily.

Listen episode two on what I went through and what you can do if you are going through an abusive relationship.

with love your host - Monique

In this part two of “Toxic or Just Stressful?” we dive into relationships — not just love, but also family and friendships. Listeners voted for practical tips, so in this episode we’re unpacking real strategies to spot the red flags, set boundaries, and protect your peace. From gaslighting and manipulation to walking on eggshells with people you care about, I’ll share how to tell when it’s time to work on a relationship — and when it might be time to walk away.

If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Am I overreacting, or is this toxic?” — this one’s for you.

What really happens when a workplace becomes toxic or overwhelmingly stressful? In this first episode of The Next Chapter, I unpack the difference between “toxic” and “stressful,” what long-term stress does to your brain and behavior, and how faith offers a path to healing.

I also share part of my own story of leaving an unhealthy work environment just a month and a half ago — the warning signs I noticed, the courage it took to leave, and the peace I’ve found since.

Whether you’re questioning your job, feeling drained, or just curious about how toxic environments shape us, this episode will give you clarity, encouragement, and hope that recovery is always possible.

✨ Tune in to learn:

• The difference between normal stress and toxic culture.
• How chronic stress literally changes your brain.
• The role of faith and peace in recovery.
• Practical steps to protect your mental and spiritual well-being.

It’s time to protect your peace and step into the next chapter.

Have you heard the words "you need to heal before you date" - well I don't totally agree.

Listen to episode 5 where I talk about why you don't actually have to heal in order to be in a relationship, or do you?

I am so excited for this episode so let me know what you think in the comments.

with love your host - Monique