How do we care for ourselves while staying connected to the people we love? In this episode of Her Unshakeable Confidence, Simone and Olivia Knego sit down with Dr. Shafer Stedron, MD, to explore emotional regulation, self-compassion, and authentic living. Dr. Stedron shares insights on navigating transitions, honoring your feelings, setting healthy boundaries, and the power of small acts of kindness. She also talks about his children’s book, The Boy and His Brightly Colored Blocks, which helps teach emotional regulation and empathy. Listeners will gain simple, practical strategies to build self-awareness, practice self-care, and nurture more genuine connections. Actionable Takeaways Self-care and self-respect are not selfish; “No is a complete sentence.” Emotional regulation is learned through modeling, connection, and practice. Authenticity requires leaving behind the pressure to please others. Small gestures, like a simple text or call, can profoundly impact someone’s life. Modeling vulnerability and humility strengthens relationships with your children. Children’s literature can teach empathy, patience, and emotional skills to both kids and adults. Apologize to yourself as you would to a friend to repair internal self-criticism. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction – Welcome and overview of today’s conversation 01:15 – Discovering Authenticity – Olivia shares her journey through college and law school 10:20 – Breaking Free from People-Pleasing – Dr. Stedron discusses self-care and boundaries 18:35 – Modeling Emotional Regulation – Using children’s literature to teach empathy and patience 28:00 – The Importance of Saying “No” – Practical strategies for personal boundaries 36:49 – Processing Grief and Connection – Reflections on community loss and reaching out 44:03 – The Boy and His Brightly Colored Blocks – Teaching kids emotional regulation 49:12 – The Power of Reading and Connection – Creating meaningful experiences through shared reading 50:51 – Closing Thoughts & Final Quote – Olivia and Simone share inspiring reflections 51:03 – Guest Info & How to Connect – Where to find Dr. Shafer Stedron About Dr. Shafer Stedron Dr. Shafer is a musician turned physician (neurologist), Jay Shetty Certified life coach, author, Founder of Little House of Dreams Publishing, Producer, and Host of the inspirational growth, health and healing focused podcast Talks with Dr. Shafer. She is the co-author of #1 International Best-selling Cracking The Rich Code Volume 16 (endorsed by Tony Robbins) and the author of the children’s book The Boy and his Brightly Colored Blocks. Dr. Shafer is passionate about helping people to reclaim their stories and build their most beautiful future. Dr. Shafer believes it is never too early to show young people how important their voice truly is, and the power they possess to create a better world. Connect with Dr. Shafer Talks with Dr Shafer Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/talks-with-dr-shafer/id1723838159 Website: www.drshaferstedronova.com Substack: https://substack.com/@shaferstedronmd Instagram: talks_with_dr_shafer https://www.instagram.com/talks_with_dr_shafer/ LinkedIn: Shafer Stedron https://www.linkedin.com/in/shafer-stedron-4b7a19263/ The Boy and His Brightly Colored Blocks is available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and www.drshaferstedronova.com https://www.amazon.com/Boy-His-Brightly-Colored-Blocks-ebook/dp/B0F7B477H8/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?crid=2645EXARXGHOT&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.UBBx0NXlzcuOeSsfdYtg0imF_L3x1C2t0HAJSvi49zxGPP9P_KcTfXkBGl29DID_za_ecV3u7sub2Ui0Kt0F2VPqipD2miHHSZoIIk_ijfg.ZG4LRrodaa6UD0-U4U_YDOLeSBgtwrYA3z9FmOtSYqY&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+boy+and+his+brightly+colored+blocks&qid=1764076624&sprefix=the+boy+and+his+brightly%2Caps%2C160&sr=8-1 👉 💬 Connect with Us Don’t forget to subscribe to Her Unshakeable Confidence for more empowering stories and actionable insights. Leave us a review, share your favorite moments, and tag us on social media! ✨ Take our new QUIZ and discover your signature mix of courage, energy, and flavor. 🎁Subscribe to our exclusive email list and receive our downloadable, FREE GUIDE, Positive affirmations to Live Life Authentically Click HERE to get your copy! Pre-Order Simone’s New Book REAL Confidence A Simple Guide to Go from Unsure to Unshakeable 📖 Order Simone’s Book Amazon Link: https://a.co/d/5MwUmJh Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/55422846-the-extraordinary-unordinary-you Barnes&Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-extraordinary-unordinary-you-simone-knego/1137661020 👉 Connect with Simone Knego: Instagram: @simoneknego Facebook: @speakersimoneknego LinkedIn: simoneknego Website: www.simoneknego.com Book a free call with Simone 👉 Connect with Olivia Knego: Instagram: @oliviaknego LinkedIn: oliviaknego Visit Our Etsy Shop: theunshakeablestudio ✨ Check out our inspirational mugs, shirts, and more at The Unshakeable Studio on Etsy! Empower your day with a dose of confidence. New de