Self(ish) Confidence

What if the limits you feel most constrained by are actually self-imposed? What if following your heart—even when your logical mind resists—is the key to unlocking your truest confidence?

Recording with my 12-week-old baby sleeping on my chest, I found myself questioning whether I could successfully multitask motherhood and podcasting. This small moment perfectly mirrors the larger struggle many of us face: the battle between heart and head, between intuition and logic, between what feels right and what society tells us is possible.

Society feeds us constant messaging about what we can and cann...

Surrendering to life's seasons requires a special kind of courage that often feels counterintuitive, especially for those of us who crave control. Through my journey of early motherhood, I've discovered something profound: when I finally let go of rigid expectations and embrace the natural flow of baby's timeline, everything feels more magical.

This episode explores the unexpected growth that comes when we release our tight grip on life. From navigating postpartum body changes to asking for what we want, I share vulnerable reflections about finding confidence in life's messy middle. My husband's career journey began with what...

Have you ever noticed those magical synchronicities that show up just when you need reassurance that you're on the right path? From angel numbers to meaningful animal encounters to technology seemingly communicating with you (like my rainbow light turning on by itself!), these moments remind us that we're being guided, even when life feels uncertain.

This episode explores the profound power of trusting that you're exactly where you need to be—even when that place is uncomfortable. I share my journey through what I call the "messy middle"—those transformative periods where we've left one version of ours...

Life's transitions often leave us dangling in "the in-between" – those disorienting periods where we no longer fit our old identity but haven't fully stepped into our new one. Whether you're navigating postpartum changes, career shifts, relationship transformations, or any significant life event, these middle spaces can feel both uncomfortable and sacred.

But what if the in-between isn't something to escape? What if it's actually where the most profound transformation happens? When we slow down and allow ourselves to exist in this space of becoming, we discover parts of ourselves we might have missed if we'd rushed ahead. Th...

Have you ever felt different, like you don't quite fit the mold society created? What if that "weirdness" is actually your superpower? Drawing inspiration from the movie Wicked, this episode explores how embracing what makes us unique—our personal "green"—can transform our lives and impact the world around us.

Fresh from watching Wicked, I've been reflecting on Elphaba's journey and how it mirrors our own struggles with authenticity. Born different and magical, she was taught to hide her true self. Sound familiar? So many of us downplay our natural gifts because they make us stand out, when...

Struggling with constantly comparing yourself to others? You're not alone. In this raw and vulnerable episode, I open up about my own battle with comparison during the postpartum period, and how it's affecting my confidence even as someone who teaches confidence for a living!

This episode is your reminder that you are enough. You're doing amazing things, even if you can't see it right now. Let's trade the comparison trap for self-compassion and recognize that our unique journeys deserve celebration, not criticism.

Ready to break free from comparison? Listen now, and remember - you may...

Six weeks into motherhood, I've discovered something surprising: the hard part wasn't birth day—it's every day that follows. Not because it's terrible (though sometimes it is), but because it demands a complete reinvention of who you are and how you move through the world.

Whether you're a parent or not, maybe you're also in a season where you can't control much. Where being flexible isn't just helpful—it's necessary for survival. If that's you, I hope this episode reminds you that sometimes the most selfish, confident thing we can do is accept that we're exactly where we n...

Step into a transformative journey as we explore burnout, grief, and authentic self-discovery with Dr. Megan Daley. In this episode, Megan candidly shares her powerful experience navigating the complexities of caregiving for her father during his cancer battle, highlighting pivotal moments that can redefine one’s purpose and direction in life. She encourages listeners to confront their truth, urging them to ask themselves, “If I died tomorrow, would I be okay with how I’ve lived?” 

Megan delves deep into the symptoms of burnout, sharing her insights into how it manifests physically and emotionally. Drawing from her journey...

Are you ready to crack open the conversation about finances and step into your power? In today’s episode, we tackle the often-taboo topic of money and self-confidence with financial therapist Lindsey Konchar. Together, we explore the weight of financial shame that many women carry and how breaking the silence can lead to empowerment and growth. 

Lindsay shares her inspiring journey toward becoming a financial therapist, emphasizing the importance of understanding our financial histories and establishing healthier money habits. With over a decade of professional experience connecting emotional health with financial literacy, she sheds light on the bar...

Jess and Ashley dive into their friendship and the unpredictable journey of life changes in this episode. They discuss navigating new roles, the challenge of maintaining friendships, the impact of social media, and the aspirations of starting a fun, light-hearted podcast together. 

• Exploration of current life transitions and challenges 
• Discussion on the evolution of friendships as we age 
• Insights into career changes and unexpected life paths 
• Musings on reality television and its cultural significance 
• Reflection on social media pressures versus authenticity 
• Teasing the new Bestie Besties podcast concept

Thank you for listening to S...

What happens when the life path you’ve meticulously planned takes an unexpected turn? Join me and my good friend Megan Seibel as we share a heartfelt and candid journey through significant life changes and unexpected discoveries. From our first encounter at an empowerment event where I boldly declared not wanting to become a mom, to embracing motherhood and all its challenges, this episode explores the power of personal growth and evolving choices. Listen as we reflect on overcoming internal fears and doubts and the pivotal moments that led to embracing new opportunities that align joy and purpose.

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Ever wondered how motherhood can transform not just your life, but your entire sense of identity? Author and former doula Jessi Harold joins us to explore the profound journey into matrescence—a term that captures the sweeping changes women navigate as they embrace motherhood. Jessie draws from her own experiences to share the emotional challenges and societal pressures that accompany this transition. Together, we shed light on the importance of open discussions about these shifts, enabling women to recognize and embrace their evolving identities.

We also dive into the often-ambivalent feelings surrounding the decision to start a fa...

Ever wondered how authenticity can break barriers and transform lives? Join me, Jess, as I chat with the fabulous Alix and Colleen from the Impostor Sisters. We unwrap Colleen’s epic journey from stay-at-home mom to influential social media marketer and dive into her new chapter as a grandmother.  Meanwhile, Alex takes us through her thrilling transition from a business degree to a vibrant career in marketing, where creativity reigns supreme. Together, we uncover how their friendship turned into a powerhouse collaboration, sparking the creation of their podcast and helping them face down imposter syndrome with unyielding support and lau...

In today's podcast, Jess discusses the unpredictability of life and why it's okay not to have a clear vision for the future. She emphasizes embracing uncertainty, taking time for rest, and pursuing joy as ways to find clarity and adapt to life’s changes.
• Reflecting on personal life transitions and how they influence planning
• The importance of openness to change in crafting life visions
• Emphasizing the necessity of self-care and rest
• How small actions can generate clarity amid uncertainty
• Creating personalized vision boards to nurture joy and reflection
• Allowing space for development and unexpected opp...

What if embracing authenticity could unlock your full potential? Discover the compelling stories of my sisters in the sisterhood—Alison Butler, Robyn Brennan, and Sarah McCann—as we explore the transformative power of community, self-discovery, and meaningful connections on the Selfish Confidence Podcast. Sarah charts her journey from the classroom to content creation and new business ownership, offering insights on building a supportive network. Meanwhile, Robyn opens up about balancing her corporate career, sound healing business, and family life, highlighting the importance of tapping into one's creative spirit. Alison, an expert in burnout prevention, shares wisdom from her life in N...

This episode delves into the transformative power of community, as Diana Marie Keller shares her journey of building the Fierce Ladies Collective in Cincinnati. Through personal stories and insights, Diana illustrates the impact of local connections on confidence and friendship, highlighting the importance of initiative and consistency in fostering relationships.

• Diana shares her journey of starting the Fierce Ladies Collective
• The role of in-person events in building community
• Overcoming hesitations in entrepreneurship and connection
• The importance of accountability within groups
• Practical steps for listeners to start building their own communities
• Diana’s vision for com...

Ever wondered how to keep the magic alive when everything seems overwhelming? Join me in this Selfish Confidence Podcast episode, where I open up about my journey from being child-free to embracing the desire for motherhood, and the unexpected support from my community that redefined my perspective on luck and abundance.

This year has been a whirlwind of change and lessons, with pregnancy and organizing the Speak Up! event teaching me the importance of surrendering to life's flow. I discovered that luck and success aren't confined to financial gains, but are found in the beauty of embracing...

Imagine walking away from your childhood dream of becoming a lawyer or a backup dancer, only to find your true calling in the unexpected world of career recruitment. That's exactly what happened to my friend Jen Warrington. In our latest podcast episode, Jen shares her remarkable journey from law aspirations to recruitment consultancy, highlighting how her path evolved through a chance encounter with a recruitment agency. Together, we unravel how aligning your career with your passions can lead to growth and success, even if it means charting a non-traditional course.

Ever felt held back by the belief...

What if pregnancy isn't just a journey, but a powerful transformation? Join me, Jess, as I share my personal experiences navigating my hardest season yet of pregnancy, where each day is a lesson in adaptability and self-discovery. Together, we’ll uncover the empowering aspects of embracing uncertainty and building confidence amidst the unfamiliar territory of bringing new life into the world.

Sign up for the 12 Days of Confidence email series for free!

Here, we emphasize the importance of self-compassion, flexibility, and rewriting our narratives to prioritize personal growth and well-being. Discover how to cultivate a ro...

Ever wondered how to balance career aspirations with personal values? Our special Sisterhood Chat offers insights into this universal struggle, featuring Randi, a hormone coach at Happy Her Coaching, Ida, a dedicated preschool teacher and podcaster and Nadine, a Virtual Assistant at Just Breath VA.

Join the Self(ish) Sisterhood until Friday, December 6th for an epic month of growth, connection and support from your new sisters.

Connect with the Sisters:
Randi Jarrett
Ida Alessandrini
Nadine Gibbs

In this episode, we uncover the power of our virtual sisterhood in fostering...

What if the twists and turns of life could actually pave the way for success beyond your wildest dreams? Join us on Selfish Confidence as we welcome Ingrid Deon, a remarkable woman whose path from an aspiring journalist to a thriving business owner in rural Nova Scotia is nothing short of inspiring. Ingrid's story is one of grit and grace, balancing the demands of single parenthood with the relentless pursuit of a career that not only supports her family but uplifts her community.

Throughout the episode, Ingrid shares her insights on redefining success, facing preconceived notions, and...

The holiday season can often feel like a whirlwind of societal expectations and personal overwhelm, but what if there was a way to transform that chaos into clarity and confidence? Join me, Jess, as I share my personal journey of navigating this hectic time of year and how it naturally led to reflecting on and redefining my future goals. This episode invites you to explore the idea of reclaiming your buried dreams and aligning them with your personal vision, even if they seem out of reach. Discover the power of the Self(ish) Sisterhood, a community where women uplift...

What happens when passion meets opportunity in the realm of parenthood and entrepreneurship? Join me, Jess, in a heartwarming conversation with my friend and birth education expert, Ashley Cooley, as she narrates her inspiring journey from mental health professional to founder of Birth Baby Sleep. Her story began with a transformative maternity leave experience, leading to the creation of much-needed prenatal classes in Nova Scotia, Canada. Ashley's dedication to supporting parents highlights the incredible growth of her business over nine years, fueled by community demand and a meaningful collaboration with a like-minded public health nurse.

Ashley's genuine...

Feeling like the end of the year is a seesaw between motivation and the desperate need for rest? You're not alone, and this week's episode of the Selfish Confidence Podcast promises a treasure trove of insights.

We'll unravel the delicate act of balancing hustle with much-needed downtime, focusing on what you personally require—whether it's the drive to push forward or the permission to pause. Plus, I'll offer exciting news about the Selfish Sisterhood's open enrolment and upcoming workshops with experts Randi Jarrett and Meg Cartwright, who will help us understand our hormones and lay out a bl...

Feeling disconnected during major life transitions, like pregnancy, is more common than you'd think. Join me, Jess, as I navigate this intricate journey on the Self(ish) Confidence Podcast, exploring unforeseen challenges and personal growth. 

Authenticity and relatability are the cornerstones of our community, where real women face real challenges without pretense. Together, we unpack the sensation of being out of sync with oneself — a common plight during unpredictable life changes. Through mindfulness and self-awareness, I encourage you to embrace every season of life, whether you’re feeling adrift or in harmony. Learn how curiosity can be your...

Three years, already?! 😮😮 Where does the time go?

Picture this: from the initial uncertainty of starting a podcast to the heartwarming anticipation of raising a son, all while navigating the complex myths of pregnancy. This episode is a heartfelt reflection on embracing new beginnings, cherishing the support of loved ones like my wonderful partner, Glen, and the joy in expecting a baby boy. Join me as I share insights on the importance of taking that first step, whether it's starting a family, a new career, or simply planting a seed of change in your life.

Learn...

Ever wonder how life’s biggest challenges can turn into your most creative periods? Join me, Jess, on the Selfish Confidence Podcast as I share the rollercoaster journey of organizing a major event in Halifax while navigating the ups and downs of pregnancy. From low energy and sickness to bursts of creativity, discover how I managed expectations and overcame hurdles to bring my authentic self to the stage. This episode unravels the beauty of embracing change and the unexpected growth that comes with it.

Discover the magic that unfolds when introverts step out, mingle, and form genuine co...

Ever felt overwhelmed by the demands of a big project and wondered if you could truly trust the process? Join me as I share the rollercoaster experience of planning my first major event, "Speak Up," and how it has taught me to let go of rigid expectations. From emotional highs and lows to a transformative retreat in Kentucky, learn how releasing control can lead to unexpected yet positive outcomes. Discover why maintaining genuine energy and authenticity is crucial, even when life throws curveballs.

Through the lens of personal transformation, I emphasize the importance of persisting through the...

Have you ever felt the nagging sensation that your inner voice is trying to tell you something important, but you’re not sure how to listen? This week, I share my journey of embracing life's unpredictable seasons and the lessons I've learned about trusting my intuition. As I plan my women's empowerment event, Speak Up, and prepare for motherhood, I recount personal stories of traveling, drawing the oracle card "Trust the Niggle," and the struggle of seeking validation while following my heart. Join me as I navigate these changes and share how you, too, can cultivate self-confidence and belief in...

Ever felt that flicker of a dream but didn't know how to nurture it? Join me on today's episode of Selfish Confidence as I share my personal journey of being 20 weeks pregnant and the importance of cherishing major decisions privately before sharing them with the world. Whether you're contemplating a career change, moving to a new city, or starting an unconventional project, this episode is all about honoring that initial spark and exploring it thoughtfully with those you trust. I discuss how I balanced planning the upcoming Speak Up event with my pregnancy, offering insights into the power of...

What happens when you change a life decision you've been publicly committed to for nearly a decade? I am 18 weeks pregnant after nine years of being proudly child-free by choice. Join me on this vulnerable and transformative journey as I navigate the emotional highs and lows of this significant life change. From feeling a disconnect at the Empower Her Conference to the liberating realization that it’s okay to embrace new beginnings, this episode is packed with heartfelt reflections and inspiring stories.

Grab your Speak Up! Tickets ---> https://jessclerke.com/speak-up
Speak Up! happening October 5th...

What if you could break free from the 9-to-5 grind and build a six-figure business in just eight months? In this episode, we join the remarkable Emily-Jane Sarroff, who bravely left her conventional job and master's program at 22 to chase her entrepreneurial dreams. Emily takes us through her bold transition, sharing invaluable lessons on self-discovery and the pursuit of freedom and flexibility. Her story serves as an incredible testament to the power of embracing change and viewing challenges as growth opportunities.

Emily-Jane’s mission is to show entrepreneurs that the possibilities of what they can achieve in li...

Feeling overwhelmed by your busy schedule? You're not alone. Join me, Jess, on this episode of Selfish Confidence as I share my own journey through the chaos and the art of finding peace amidst it all. I recount a particularly hectic day where an oracle bird deck served as a gentle reminder to seek peace and harmony.

Struggling to prioritize self-care? I've got you covered with practical strategies for navigating those jam-packed days. From starting your morning with a nutritious breakfast to grounding yourself through reading and meditation, these tips are designed to help you maintain balance...

What if you could transform an ordinary summer day into an unforgettable experience? From lazy mornings in a zero gravity chair to spontaneous road trips, Jess reveals how embracing unplanned moments of solitude can enrich your life. Discover the contrast between her introverted daily demeanor and her energetic event persona, and why these serene summer days are so essential before the hustle and bustle of September arrives.

Ever battled with fear and anxiety when organizing a big event? Jess opens up about her personal journey of overcoming these challenges while planning the upcoming "Speak Up" event. Featuring...

Have you ever wondered how a simple keepsake could hold profound memories? Join me on a cozy morning chat as I sip coffee from my treasured pottery mug, reflecting on a life-changing retreat in Barbados. Together, we’ll explore the enchanting power of keepsakes and how they preserve the warmth and connections formed during special moments. We'll also embrace the slower pace of summer, cherishing its spontaneity and joy even as we transition back into our routines.

Imagine shifting your energy towards gratitude, no matter the challenges that life throws your way. In this episode, we’ll high...

Ever felt like you're on the brink of burnout while chasing your dreams? I’ve been there, and this week, I’m sharing my personal journey as a solo entrepreneur learning to pace myself and manage burnout while growing our Selfish Sisterhood community.

Olympic athletes epitomize dedication and sacrifice, and their stories are a treasure trove of inspiration for anyone chasing big dreams. From the relentless training to the immense financial investments, we delve into the parallels between their journey and our personal quests for success. The persistence and resilience these athletes demonstrate can inspire you to push...

What if your biggest limitations are the doors you've closed?

Discover the incredible power of staying open to change in every facet of your life. Drawing from my experiences in my 20s and 30s, I'll share how closing doors can limit your potential, while embracing openness can lead to unexpected and positive transformations. We'll explore the benefits of re-evaluating your values, adopting new perspectives, and remaining adaptable to life's transitions. Whether you're navigating job changes or shifting relationships, staying open-minded can build your confidence and help you uncover better opportunities aligned with your evolving truths.

...

Ever felt like summer's heat was just too much to handle? I sure have, and on this episode of Selfish Confidence, I open up about my personal struggles with maintaining self-care during these demanding months. We'll explore why it's crucial to be kinder to ourselves, especially when the temperature rises. We’ll also talk about the upcoming Speak Up event, a space designed to help you overcome fears and embrace your authentic self. Whether you’re making small self-care adjustments or taking giant leaps to connect with like-minded individuals, this conversation is all about prioritizing your needs and finding comm...