Evolve Ventures
Co-hosts, Emilia Smith and Bianca Thomas are taking state-of-the-art research, experience, and data-backed methodologies to evolve the old version of themselves leveraging their obsessions into Evolve Ventures, a podcast designed to accelerate evolution, excellence, and extraordinary. Evolve Ventures is designed to radically equip you for today’s experiences, and tomorrow’s challenges, shifting you into unlimited potential. Topics will dive into the keys of leadership, elite brain performance, the not-so-scary parts of tech, the tools to navigate mental health, strategies for optimal living, relationships, and of course, personal development without the fluff. You can look forward to deeper stories, insights, and...
#423 | You're Not Responsible for Their Emotions
Send us a text
When silence protects others, your truth stays hidden. In this episode, we talk about the core belief that you’re responsible for managing other people’s emotions and how it silently shapes your identity, relationships, and success. Through real stories and powerful insights, we show how this belief begins in childhood and festers into adulthood, keeping you small, anxious, and disconnected from yourself. If you’ve ever felt like your needs come last or that you can’t express how you feel, this one’s for you.
Here are the related ep...
#422 | Are You Living by Someone Else's Standards?
Send us a text
Who told you who you should be? In today’s honest and eye-opening episode, we talk about the invisible scripts we’ve all inherited, from family, culture, and past environments, and how they quietly shape the way we live. We share powerful stories, including client breakthroughs and our own experiences, to help you spot the inner critic that isn’t really yours. If you’ve ever felt stuck trying to meet expectations that don’t feel true to you, this conversation will give you clarity, courage, and the tools to start rewriting the rules.
#421 | Why 'Just Get It Done' Is Holding You Back
Send us a text
In this episode of Evolve Ventures, we explore how high standards can quietly stall your progress. Through real moments and mindset shifts, we show you when to reach for excellence and when “good enough” is the wiser way. You’ll learn to sort what truly matters, escape the grip of procrastination, and harness tools like the 80% rule and Parkinson’s Law to work with, not against, time. Tune in and trade burnout for steady, soul-aligned progress.
Here are the related episodes, each one builds on today’s conversation:
#360 | The REAL R...
#420 | Why You're So Angry And What to Do About It
Send us a text
Sacred rage, power reclaimed. In today’s powerful episode, we’re having a real conversation about what anger truly is and why it deserves a seat at the table. We share a powerful client story, lessons from our healing journeys, and a fresh perspective from CBT that helps reframe anger as a sacred signal, not a personal flaw. Together, we explore how unprocessed rage can live in the body, how it connects to boundaries, and how to move through it with compassion instead of shame. Whether you’ve blacked out from rage, bottled it up...
#419 | The Four Different Types of Consent You Need to Know
Send us a text
Are you saying “yes” when your body says “no”? In this episode, we break down the four types of consent, the 4 C’s you need to know, and why silence isn’t agreement. Through real stories and simple tools, you'll learn how to protect your voice, your body, and your power, everywhere from dating to daily life.
Here are the related episodes, each one builds on today’s conversation:
#378 | The Differences in Boundaries You NEED to Know - https://apple.co/4hs4Y39
#407 | The Fear of Finally Using Your Voice - https...
#418 | How to Heal from an Addictive Relationship
Send us a text
In today’s powerful episode of Evolve Ventures, we pull back the curtain on addictive relationships, why they happen, what keeps us stuck, and how to finally break free. With stories, neuroscience, and simple strategies, we break down how love can become an emotional trap and why the brain keeps chasing the high even when it hurts. If you’ve ever felt trapped in a relationship that drains you, this episode will give you the insight and tools to start healing and reclaim your peace.
Here are the related episodes, each one...
#417 | Healing from the Loneliness Epidemic
Send us a text
The truth behind the disconnect. In this episode, we open up about the loneliness epidemic that’s quietly affecting millions, especially those of us on a growth journey. We break down how social media distorts relationships, the hidden expectations we place on others, and what it really means to feel seen. You’ll hear stats that will shock you, stories that feel all too familiar, and the simple truth that connection is a choice. If you’re tired of surface-level friendships and ready to build something deeper, this episode is for you.
#416 | The Things That Get in the Way of Feeling Attractive
Send us a text
What if feeling ugly isn’t actually about your looks? In today’s honest and powerful episode, we open up about our struggles with appearance and the deep-rooted beliefs that shaped how we saw ourselves. We talk about the rising fear of being unattractive, the emotional weight of beauty standards, and why external fixes, like surgery or filters, rarely heal the real wounds. If you’ve ever questioned your appearance or felt pressure to be “pretty enough,” this conversation is for you. You’ll walk away with clarity, compassion, and a fresh understanding of what trul...
#415 | Are You Ignoring the Dope Dress Principle (and Sabotaging Yourself)?
Send us a text
In this episode of Evolve Ventures, we introduce the Dope Dress Principle and how what we wear can directly influence our energy, confidence, and mood. Through personal stories and real coaching moments, we talk about how self-expression through style goes beyond appearance. It’s a powerful tool for emotional empowerment. Whether we're in sweatpants or stilettos, this conversation is a reminder to dress in a way that makes us feel good.
Here are the related episodes, each one builds on today’s conversation:
#353 | Why We Are Afraid to Learn - http...
#414 | Overcoming Procrastination: OOTM Recap
Send us a text
Reclaim your energy and redefine your momentum. In today’s powerful episode, we unpack the real reason behind procrastination: unmet needs. Sharing key takeaways from our “Out Of The Mud” event, we explore how your nervous system, emotional bandwidth, and inner dialogue influence your ability to take action. Together, we break down the difference between avoidance and honoring your limits and offer practical ways to move forward with clarity, compassion, and intention.
Here are the related episodes, each one builds on today’s conversation:
#367 | How to Overcome Procrastination - https://podcasts...
#413 | How Movie Club Changes Lives
Send us a text
Have you ever watched a movie that stuck with you long after it ended? In this episode, we share how our Movie Club turned into so much more than a fun night in. It became a powerful space for healing, reflection, and connection. We talk about the “Evolved Lens” we use to watch films and how it helps us (and our community) grow through storytelling. Whether you’re into musicals, thrillers, or feel-good dramas, there’s something here for you. Come see how your favorite movie might be saying more about you than you ever...
#412 | Being an Adult Doesn't Mean You've Grown
Send us a text
In today’s raw and powerful episode of Evolve Ventures, we explore the difference between biological age and emotional development. We share the hard truths about why so many adults still operate from a place of survival, how that impacts relationships, parenting, and self-worth, and what it actually takes to grow. If you’ve ever questioned your emotional patterns or felt stuck in cycles that don’t serve you, this conversation is for you.
Here are the related episodes, each one builds on today’s conversation:
#359 | How to Disentangle from Emotiona...
#411 | Why Most People Fail Long-Term—And How to Win
Send us a text
Make decisions today that your future self will thank you for. In this episode, we unpack the real impact of long-term thinking and how easy it is to sabotage it without even noticing. We share honest conversations, client breakthroughs, and personal stories around money, relationships, fear, and impulsive habits that keep us stuck. You’ll walk away with practical tools, mindset shifts, and the confidence to think bigger and act with purpose. If you’re ready for real transformation, not just motivation, this one’s for you.
Here are the relate...
#410 | How We Got Here: The Real, Unfiltered Story
Send us a text
What if your most painful moments held the key to your greatest growth? In today’s heartfelt episode, we open up about the real stories behind Evolve Ventures, from childhood trauma and emotional struggles to the moment we met and chose to rise. We come from very different backgrounds, but what brought us together was a shared belief. Your past doesn’t define your future. If you’ve ever felt broken, stuck, or like your story disqualifies you from success, we made this episode for you.
Here are the related episodes, each o...
#409 | Can Technology, Like ChatGPT & AI, Help in Therapy?
Send us a text
In this episode of Evolve Ventures, we explore the rise of AI in mental health support and the real emotional risks that come with it. We walk through a tragic real-world case, unpack the ethical gray areas most people overlook, and share three powerful prompts you can use to protect your mental wellness online. Whether you're curious, cautious, or already relying on AI, we’re here to challenge how you think about healing in the digital age and help you use tech with more intention, clarity, and care.
References:
#408 | The Paradox of Self-Love
Send us a text
Self-love has been hijacked. In today’s episode, we unpack the real, raw, and often uncomfortable truth about what self-love actually takes. From holding ourselves to higher standards to keeping promises when no one’s watching, we share the lessons, stories, and struggles that shaped our journeys. This isn’t about perfection. It’s about integrity, growth, and showing up for yourself every day. Join us as we explore the paradox of true self-love and why it’s the most important relationship you’ll ever build.
Here’s the episode related to today’s dis...
#407 | The Fear of Finally Using Your Voice
Send us a text
What if the fear of using your voice isn’t your fault, but something you were taught? In this powerful and deeply honest conversation, we open up about the painful experiences that conditioned us to stay quiet, from childhood wounds to uncomfortable moments at the gym. We’ve both had to learn how to reclaim our voices, set boundaries, and rewrite the stories that kept us small. If you’ve ever felt like speaking up was unsafe or wrong, you’re not alone. We’re here to remind you that your voice matters, and it’s n...
#406 | How & When to Tell People to Fuck Off
Send us a text
In today’s unfiltered and fiery episode of Evolve Ventures, we’re getting real with you about the moments you ignore your gut and how that silence turns into permission for others to cross your boundaries. From creepy encounters at the gym to those “harmless” jokes that aren’t so harmless, we’re unpacking the disrespect that too many of us have learned to tolerate. We’re sharing raw stories, bold truths, and five ways you can say “no more” with clarity and courage. This is your permission slip to protect your peace and finally reclai...
#405 | How Parents Emotionally Trap You (Without Realizing It)
Send us a text
When love stunts independence. In this episode, we unpack how well-meaning parents can unknowingly create emotional traps that keep us stuck, scared, and unsure how to move forward. We share real stories, from financial dependence to guilt-driven choices, that reveal how childhood conditioning still shows up in our adult lives. If you’re on a path of growth and ready to break free, we’re here to help you find the clarity and courage to truly stand on your own.
Here’s the episode related to today’s discussion and why we highl...
#404 | 3 Things That Make You More Likeable
Send us a text
What actually makes someone likable? In this episode, we unpack the truth behind real connection. From childhood wounds to self-worth and social energy, we reveal the three powerful traits that make people naturally gravitate toward you. This isn’t about fake charm or surface-level popularity, it’s about showing up as your authentic self and building a life you love from the inside out. If you’ve ever struggled to feel seen or wondered what really draws people in, we’re here to help you feel understood, inspired, and equipped.
Here’s the epis...
#403 | The Truth About Motivation Nobody Likes to Talk About
Send us a text
In this episode of Evolve Ventures, we challenge the belief that you need to “feel ready” before taking action. Through honest personal stories and powerful psychological insights, we explore what truly drives change and why waiting for motivation might be what’s holding you back. You’ll learn how momentum begins, how your brain miscalculates risk, and a simple framework to help you take action, even when it’s hard.
Here’s the episode related to today’s discussion and why we highly recommend listening to it as well:
#373 | How to Tell if You...
#402 | The Biggest Things That Get In the Way of Happiness
Send us a text
We’ve been taught to chase happiness like a finish line. In today’s episode, we peel back the layers of what happiness really is. Together, we explore the longing beneath the surface, the need for safety in our nervous systems, the quiet power of consent in relationships, and the kind of fulfillment that doesn’t shout, but steadies. If you’ve ever felt like something was missing, even when life looked good on paper, this conversation is for you.
Here’s the episode related to today’s discussion and why we highly re...
#401 | The Biggest Ways Relationships are Ruined
Send us a text
Why do we crave extraordinary love but settle for chaos? In this raw and revealing episode, we share personal truths about toxic relationships and unpack the real reason most couples struggle. Together, we explore why love isn’t enough, how nervous system regulation changes everything, and what it takes to build a healthy connection. If you’ve ever felt stuck in a relationship that looks fine on the outside but feels wrong inside, this conversation is your lifeline.
Here’s the episode related to today’s discussion and why we highly recommen...
#400 | The Ways Avoidance is Ruining Your Life
Send us a text
What if the life you long for is waiting on the other side of what you avoid? In this soulful 400th milestone episode, we open the door to fears we once buried, including emotional, mental, and behavioral ones, and show how each fear held the keys to our growth. Through raw stories and quiet revelations, we trace the path from hiding to healing. If you’ve been shrinking, silencing, or stalling, consider this your gentle push toward the freedom you were made for.
Here’s the episode related to today’s discus...
#399 | Why You Still Struggle to Feel Good Enough
Send us a text
Comparison steals joy, and it's everywhere today. In today’s episode, we untangle the quiet grip of comparison, the scrolling, the self-judgment, the childhood wounds that whisper “you’re not enough.” From digital illusions to deeply rooted doubt, we trace the path back to your inherent worth.
Here’s the episode related to today’s discussion and why we highly recommend listening to it as well:
#385 | Are You Protecting Your Inner Child? - https://apple.co/42TAaEI
#342 | Why You Feel You Can Never Do Enough - https://apple.co/4djzUT4
<...
#398 | A Powerful Way to Never Be Manipulated Again
Send us a text
In this heartfelt episode of Evolve Ventures, we explore how unmet needs and old beliefs shape the ways we all seek love, safety, and control. Together, we reflect on the patterns we carry, the truths we avoid, and the growth we’re capable of when we face it all with honesty and care.
Here’s the episode related to today’s discussion and why we highly recommend listening to it as well:
#331 | Are You Emotionally Immature? - https://apple.co/42Zshw3
#390 | Why Can't I Trust Myself? I'm Trapped - https...
#397 | Every People-Pleaser Needs to Know This
Send us a text
Have you ever said yes when everything inside you screamed no? In today’s raw and honest episode, we explore the hidden cost of people-pleasing through Bianca’s vulnerable story and hard-earned wisdom. Together, we unpack how the craving for love and acceptance can slowly lead us to abandon ourselves and how we can choose differently. If you've ever felt the sting of regret after putting yourself last, this conversation is for you.
Here’s the episode related to today’s discussion and why we highly recommend listening to it as well:
#396 | The Best Habit for Dealing With Stress
Send us a text
Calm lives beneath your nose. In this heartfelt episode, we uncover why so many of us unknowingly feed our stress and how a few simple shifts can quiet the chaos within. Through real stories and raw honesty, we share four timeless practices to calm your breath, center your mind, and reclaim your strength when the world feels unsteady. If your heart longs for a little more peace and your spirit is ready to rise, this is a journey you won’t want to miss.
Here’s the episode related to today’s disc...
#395 | Are You Playing Not to Lose or Playing to Win?
Send us a text
In today’s episode of Evolve Ventures, we unpack the hidden mindset traps that keep so many of us stuck, playing small, and seeking approval instead of pursuing true growth. Together, we explore the real difference between building lasting success and clinging to surface-level wins — and how we can shift from merely surviving to truly thriving.
Here’s the episode related to today’s discussion and why we highly recommend listening to it as well:
#321 | Motivation Monday: It's Okay NOT to Know - https://apple.co/3YSdemH
#320 | Are You A Perfec...
#394 | How You Can Leverage Your 'Rock Bottom' Moments
Send us a text
What if your lowest moment could be the start of something better? In this heartfelt episode, we get real about what it means to hit rock bottom—and how to rise from it. Together, we explore trusting ourselves through chaos, setting boundaries instead of self-sacrificing, and making choices that support real growth. It’s an honest conversation about resilience, self-trust, and the power of choosing differently.
Here’s the episode related to today’s discussion and why we highly recommend listening to it as well:
#319 | Motivation Monday: The Meaning of Life - h...
#393 | How Trauma Gets Stored in the Body
Send us a text
We often deny our trauma because shame teaches us to stay silent. In this episode, we explore how trauma can hide in plain sight—unacknowledged, minimized, or dismissed simply because it doesn’t “look serious enough.” We share real stories, emotional truths, and gentle encouragement to help you recognize your own experiences. If you've ever felt unseen or invalidated, this conversation is for you.
Here’s the episode related to today’s discussion and why we highly recommend listening to it as well:
#333 | Why You Don't Trust Yourself to Make Decisions...
#392 | How To Embody A High Value Person
Send us a text
In today’s powerful episode of Evolve Ventures, we challenge the myth that success is defined by flashy cars, luxury brands, or social status. Instead, we explore how real value is built through grit, humility, emotional intelligence, and the inner work no one sees. We share real stories, speak honest truths, and remind each other—and you—that becoming high value is possible for anyone willing to do the work.
Here’s the episode related to today’s discussion and why we highly recommend listening to it as well:
#350 | We ALL Strugg...
#391 | Why Does Growth Suck SO BAD?
Send us a text
What if the reason growth feels so hard is because we expect it to be easy? In this episode, we unpack why personal growth can feel awful—and why that’s not a bad thing. We explore how chasing quick fixes keeps us stuck and how shifting from “avoiding pain” to “building bravery” can change everything. If you’ve ever felt like giving up on your growth journey, know that you're not alone. We’re in this with you. Tune in for real stories, mindset shifts, and the support you need to keep going—even when...
#390 | Why Can't I Trust Myself? I'm Trapped
Send us a text
You can't trust yourself if you don't know who 'self' is. In this thoughtful and encouraging episode, we dive into how cultural expectations, people-pleasing, and a lack of identity can hold us back from feeling confident in our choices. Through real-life stories and practical tips, we share how starting small, asking better questions, and tuning into your authentic self can lead to more clarity and self-respect. If you're ready to stop second-guessing and start living with more confidence, this one's for you.
Here’s the episode related to today’s discussion and...
#389 | Building Your Child's Sturdy Foundation
Send us a text
This eye-opening episode calls out the often-ignored emotional and psychological needs of children that are too frequently overlooked by even well-meaning parents. Emilia and Bianca discuss how common parenting habits can leave lasting scars. They break down the science behind child development, why emotional attunement matters, and how repeating harmful patterns creates future adults who struggle silently. This conversation is a wake-up call for anyone raising kids or even thinking about it, offering a compassionate but direct reminder: if we want healthier, happier children, we have to do the work ourselves first.
<...
#388 | How Anxiety Can Make Me Better
Send us a text
In this eye-opening episode of Evolve Ventures, we offer a powerful reframing of anxiety that challenges the mainstream view. Through our honest stories and expert insights, we explore how anxiety can be a signal that something inside us needs attention—whether it’s a missing skill, a buried fear, or a need for safety. You’ll walk away with a fresh perspective on your anxious thoughts and practical tools to turn them into opportunities for personal growth.
Here’s the list of episodes related to today’s discussion and why we highly rec...
#387 | How to Stop Getting into Arguments
Send us a text
Relationships can be complex, dynamic, and sometimes downright challenging. In today’s episode, we explore why so many of us feel stuck in our relationships. We share a vulnerable story about how a simple gift almost led to an argument—and how it was diffused using three simple tools anyone can learn. Together, we’ll unpack how to stay calm when emotions run high and how to better understand the people we care about most.
Here’s the episode related to today’s discussion and why we highly recommend listening to it as well...
#386 | The #1 Skill You Need to Learn to Be Happy
Send us a text
Fulfilled people take feedback well. In this episode, we open up about how hard—but absolutely necessary—it is to face the truth about ourselves. Through our own stories and real client experiences, we explore why learning to receive feedback with humility can be the difference between a life that thrives and one that quietly falls apart. If you’ve ever wrestled with shame, denial, or feeling stuck, this is a heartfelt invitation to stop pretending and start healing—together.
Here’s the list of episodes related to today’s discussion and why we h...
#385 | Are You Protecting Your Inner Child?
Send us a text
In today’s powerful conversation of Evolve Ventures, we explore what the inner child truly is, how childhood wounds shape our adult beliefs, and why many of us struggle to feel safe in our emotions. With honesty and compassion, we share how healing begins when we stop ignoring our pain and protect the younger versions of ourselves who still live within us.
Here’s the list of episodes related to today’s discussion and why we highly recommend listening to them as well:
#306 | How to Not Get Walked Over - https...
#384 | When Is It the Right Time to Forgive?
Send us a text
Forgiveness is often viewed as a crucial step in healing, but is it truly necessary? In this episode, we challenge the conventional wisdom surrounding forgiveness and explore whether letting go always requires forgiveness. We also discuss the difference between conditional and unconditional forgiveness, the impact of unresolved pain on our well-being, and the power of self-compassion in the healing process.
Here’s the list of episodes related to today’s discussion and why we highly recommend listening to them as well:
#364 | The Two Types of Empathy and How They’re Hurtin...
