Money stress isn’t really about money.
It’s about the identity-level beliefs running underneath.

In this episode of The Shift Show, Andrea sits down with Jenae White, Registered Provisional Psychologist at ShiftGrit’s Calgary studio, and Crystal Taylor, Financial Planner and Wealth Management Consultant. Together, they explore why smart, capable people still feel overwhelmed by money—overspending, shutting down, avoiding statements, over-saving, or never feeling “ahead.”

You can’t discipline or budget your way out of a threat response.
Financial knowledge matters, but it doesn’t stick when the nervous system is activated by beliefs like:

“I am falling behind.”
“I am not in control.”
“I am at risk.”
“I do not deserve.”

When these beliefs trigger, the threat system hijacks decision-making. That’s why your logical mind knows the plan, but your behaviour doesn’t follow it. The team explains how early experiences shape these patterns and why money becomes a lightning rod for stress, shame, and avoidance.

You’ll hear examples from therapy and financial planning—Calgarians feeling pressure to “keep up,” families stuck in financial enmeshment, individuals dealing with guilt or underspending, and couples in avoidance cycles.

In This Episode:

• The psychology of financial overwhelm
How freeze, fawn, and over-functioning create repeating patterns.

• Why Calgarians feel “behind.”
How comparison and pressure fuel anxiety.

• Beliefs that drive money behaviours
Why beliefs influence choices more than budgeting.

• Why avoidance gives relief but long-term stress
The brain prioritizes short-term safety.

• How therapy and planning work together
Regulation creates capacity; strategy creates direction.

• Why patterns aren’t about intelligence or willpower
Knowledge isn’t enough when the threat system is active.

Key Quotes

“People think they have money problems. They actually have threat-system problems.” — Andrea
“The belief ‘I’m falling behind’ is the engine of so many decisions.” — Jenae
“You can’t budget your way out of a belief.” — Crystal

Identity-Level Therapy for Money Stress

At ShiftGrit, we don’t treat “money issues.” We work with the identity patterns driving emotional reactions to money. Once the belief layer is regulated, clients often report feeling calmer and more grounded.

Identity-Level Therapy helps clients:
• regulate the nervous system
• reduce shame and avoidance
• understand overwhelm
• recondition beliefs
• align actions with long-term goals

It’s not about willpower.
It’s about removing the patterns fighting against it.

🔗 Explore the Episode + Watch the Video

Watch the video and play the full episode here:
👉 https://shiftgrit.com/shift-show/mind-over-money-limiting-beliefs-financial-anxiety/

If You’re in Calgary

Explore how structured, transparent therapy works at the identity level:
👉 Calgary Therapy: What Most People Don’t Know When Choosing a Psychologist

Jenae White, R. Provisional Psychologist – ShiftGrit Calgary
Profile: https://shiftgrit.com/therapists/jenae-white/

Crystal Taylor – Holden & Taylor Advisory Group
Website: https://holdentaylorfinancial.ca/about/
Instagram: @taylord_advisor

Endless scrolling, compulsive clicking, and dopamine-driven distraction—sound familiar? In this episode, Andrea McTague and Alberto Medeiros unpack the reality of internet addiction and how modern tech subtly hijacks our minds. They explore how screen time disrupts sleep, relationships, emotional health, and productivity—often without us realizing it. Drawing from neuroscience and real-life therapy insights, they examine the psychological mechanics behind our digital habits and offer actionable strategies to break free. Whether you're seeking focus and connection, or just want to understand your phone cravings, this is your wake-up call.

📥 Download our free Digital Detox Guide:
The-Ultimate-Digital-Reset-Guide-ShiftGrit.pdf

📺 Watch the full video version & read the extended summary:
shiftgrit.com/shift-show

🌐 Learn more about ShiftGrit Psychology & Counselling:
shiftgrit.com

📘 Explore local Calgary counselling resources:
calgarypsychology.info

Summary

In this episode, Andrea McTague and Mateo Sestito explore the complexities of trauma, its impact on the brain, and how early experiences shape our responses to life. They discuss the difference between disturbances and trauma, the role of limiting beliefs, and the importance of social connections in coping with trauma. The conversation emphasizes the potential for trauma to be transformed into strength and resilience through understanding and therapy. Listeners are encouraged to embrace change and recognize that trauma does not have to define their lives.

Takeaways

Trauma can shape our identity but does not have to define us.
Understanding the brain's response to trauma is crucial for healing.
Disturbances can be just as impactful as major traumas.
Early experiences play a significant role in shaping our beliefs.
Coping mechanisms can be identified and transformed.
Social connections can buffer the effects of trauma.
Incremental exposure can help desensitize traumatic responses.
Therapy can facilitate the removal of limiting beliefs.
Empowerment comes from understanding the roots of our behaviours.
Trauma can lead to resilience and strength when processed effectively.

Titles

Navigating the Complexities of Trauma
Transforming Trauma into Strength

Sound Bites

"Can trauma be beneficial?"
"Understanding the why calms us down."
"Trauma is not a life sentence."

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Trauma and Its Storage in the Brain
17:52 Identifying and Coping with Limiting Beliefs
22:38 Factors Influencing Coping Mechanisms
32:36 Unexpected Outcomes of Removing Limiting Beliefs
38:25 Incremental Exposure and Desensitization
43:24 Understanding Avoidance and Its Impact
48:42 The Dual Nature of Trauma
53:49 Perfectionism and Its Consequences
58:59 Empowerment Through Understanding

Summary

In this episode, Andrea McTague and Sharilyn Theriault explore the complexities of parenting, emphasizing the importance of parental well-being, emotional resilience, and intentionality in parenting practices. They discuss common challenges such as tantrums, the significance of co-regulation, and effective strategies for bedtime routines. The conversation also highlights the importance of scaffolding children's learning and the three C's of parenting: Calm, Connection, and Correction. The episode concludes with insights on the long-term impact of parenting styles on children's development and relationships.

Takeaways

Parenting is often an unrecognized but crucial job.
Taking care of your mental health positively impacts your children.
A little challenge can help build resilience in children.
It's important to be informed but not too hard on yourself as a parent.
Co-regulation is essential for managing children's emotions.
Effective bedtime routines can significantly improve family dynamics.
Scaffolding helps children learn independence and self-efficacy.
The three C's of parenting are Calm, Connection, and Correction.
Modelling behaviour is key to teaching children.
Intentionality in parenting leads to better outcomes for children.

Titles

Navigating the Challenges of Parenting
The Importance of Parental Well-being

Sound Bites

"Parenting is an important job."
"You're learning as you go."
"Don't be too hard on yourself."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Parenting Insights
05:55 Understanding Parenting Challenges
13:09 Types of Tantrums: Instinctual vs. Premeditated
19:03 Understanding Child Behavior and Attention Seeking
23:40 The Importance of Sleep in Parenting
32:14 Techniques for Parenting and Scaffolding Learning
37:00 Motivation and Behavioral Outcomes in Children
42:11 The Importance of Autonomy and Self-Efficacy
48:35 Navigating Parental Anxiety and Child Development

ShiftGrit Psychology & Counselling
Address: 815 17 Ave SW #210, Calgary, AB T2T 0A1
Phone: (587) 352-6463
https://maps.app.goo.gl/MFSWhTvJfohKS8TK6
https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=1W9cOBTF1N_tKGcu2prvH_Fi3jmVSJ5k&usp=sharing
Read a review: https://g.co/kgs/fHm8RgB
See the Google Post: https://posts.gle/1SjSe5
Calgary Location: https://www.google.com/search?kgmid=/g/11c0w8k19c
Edmonton Location: https://www.google.com/search?kgmid=/g/1q5bm33nh

https://shiftgrit.com
Get started 👉 https://shiftgrit.com/shift-show/parenting-strategies-for-toddlers/

Summary

In this episode of The Shift Show, Andrea McTague and Amy Gale discuss the unique mental health challenges faced by veterans and first responders, including the impact of trauma, the importance of social connections, and the transition to civilian life. They explore strategies for resilience, the role of humour in healing, and the significance of finding purpose after service. The conversation emphasizes the need for support systems and the potential for trauma to be integrated into one's identity as a source of strength.

Takeaways

Veterans and first responders often experience a loss of belonging after service.
Mental health struggles are stigmatized in military and first responder cultures.
Isolation and avoidance can exacerbate trauma responses.
Transitioning to civilian life can be challenging and disorienting.
Finding purpose in civilian life is crucial for mental well-being.
Social connections are vital for recovery and resilience.
Humour can be a powerful tool in coping with trauma.
Trauma can be integrated into one's identity as a strength.
Support systems are essential for navigating mental health challenges.
Therapy can help individuals process trauma and find clarity.

Titles

Navigating the Mental Health Landscape of Veterans
The Hidden Struggles of First Responders

Sound Bites

"Finding a sense of belonging is hard."
"You need a good support system."
"You have to take time for yourself."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Shift Show and Its Focus
05:55 Amy Gale's Military Background and Transition to Psychology
10:54 Challenges Faced by Veterans and First Responders
15:30 Understanding Trauma and PTSD
19:56 The Impact of Trauma on Relationships
24:47 Coping Mechanisms and the Role of Social Support
29:24 Therapeutic Approaches to Trauma Recovery
38:24 Understanding Trauma and Its Impact
43:21 The Cost of Service: Personal Sacrifices
49:47 Translating Military Skills to Civilian Life
59:11 The Importance of Professional Guidance
01:07:47 Transforming Trauma into Strength


ShiftGrit Psychology & Counselling
Address: 815 17 Ave SW #210, Calgary, AB T2T 0A1
Phone: (587) 352-6463
https://maps.app.goo.gl/MFSWhTvJfohKS8TK6
https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=1W9cOBTF1N_tKGcu2prvH_Fi3jmVSJ5k&usp=sharing
Read a review: https://g.co/kgs/fHm8RgB
See the Google Post: https://posts.gle/M9uYas
Calgary Location: https://www.google.com/search?kgmid=/g/11c0w8k19c
Edmonton Location: https://www.google.com/search?kgmid=/g/1q5bm33nh

https://shiftgrit.com
Get started 👉 https://shiftgrit.com/shift-show/beyond-the-call-navigating-trauma/

Summary

In this episode of The Shift Show, Andrea McTague and Baldwin Asala delve into the intricacies of performance psychology, focusing on high achievers such as athletes and entrepreneurs. They explore common concerns like performance blocks, burnout, and the challenges of transitioning out of high-performance roles. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding limiting beliefs, achieving flow states, and maintaining a balance between personal and professional life. Through their unique backgrounds and experiences, they provide insights into how individuals can enhance their performance while avoiding the pitfalls of excessive pressure and expectations.

Takeaways

High performers often face similar psychological challenges.
Performance blocks can stem from learned helplessness.
Flow states are achieved through a balance of challenge and skill.
Burnout is a common issue among high achievers.
Transitioning out of performance roles can lead to identity crises.
Limiting beliefs can hinder performance and growth.
Understanding the 'why' behind goals is crucial for motivation.
Practicing resilience is key to overcoming setbacks.
Building a support system is essential for mental health.
A structured approach can enhance performance and well-being.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Performance Psychology
03:07 Diverse Backgrounds in Performance Psychology
05:39 Common Concerns of High Performers
12:57 The Role of Grit in Performance
15:13 Achieving Flow States
24:30 Burnout and Work-Life Balance
26:28 Limiting Beliefs and Their Impact
30:01 Underdeveloped Areas in High Achievers
32:20 The Resentment of High Performance
36:12 The Balance Between Drive and Relaxation
39:21 Transitioning Out of High Performance
42:19 The Search for Meaning After Success


ShiftGrit Psychology & Counselling
Address: 815 17 Ave SW #210, Calgary, AB T2T 0A1
Phone: (587) 352-6463
https://maps.app.goo.gl/MFSWhTvJfohKS8TK6
https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=1W9cOBTF1N_tKGcu2prvH_Fi3jmVSJ5k&usp=sharing
Read a review: https://g.co/kgs/fHm8RgB
See the Google Post: https://posts.gle/EJKYEi
Calgary Location: https://www.google.com/search?kgmid=/g/11c0w8k19c
Edmonton Location: https://www.google.com/search?kgmid=/g/1q5bm33nh

Find the podcast: https://shiftgrit.com/shift-show/grit-growth-performance-psychology/
Get started 👉 https://shiftgrit.com/calgary/sports-psychology/

Let us know in the comments what other topics you'd like our psychologists Andrea and Zac to cover in the next upcoming episodes!

In this episode of The Shift Show, we admit that it's been a while... but we're back and this topic is one that you'll want to sit in on. We'll be talking about External Stressors (things that stress us out that are NOT in our control) such as the war between Russia and Ukraine, the raising inflation, supply chain shortages, political division etc. Our two psychologists will give you tips on how to manage what is in your control and how to filter out what isn't.

The sex experience can be very confusing; on one hand, it is pleasurable and we desire it but on the other hand, it’s associated with shame and disgust. Tune in and hear what we have to say about sex!