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If you've ever built the case for the promotion, the bigger territory, the raise — and then frozen right at the moment you needed to ask — this episode is for you. That freeze isn't a confidence problem. It's inherited wiring, and today we're tracing it back to where it actually came from.
✨ What you'll learn in this episode:
✨ Why your brain reads "different from my family" as dangerous — and why that's biology, not weakness ✨ The real reason growth costs you distance from certain people, and why that's not your fault ✨ What transgenerational epigenetic inheritance actually means for your stress response, in plain English ✨ Why the survival strategies the women before you used aren't the same as thriving strategies ✨ A simple pause-and-ask practice for catching inherited hesitation in real time ✨ Why your growth might be giving permission to the women around you, not betraying themKey takeaway: That inherited hesitation whispering "who do you think you are" right before you advocate for yourself isn't wisdom — it's old tribal wiring plus a pattern you absorbed before you had language for it. You get to ask if it's actually yours. And letting it go doesn't mean leaving anyone behind.
RISE Method connection: This one lives in Inner Energy — because your energy isn't just your calendar and your cortisol today, it's the current running underneath all of it, and some of that current was set by someone else.
Ready to go deeper? Join the weekly newsletter at michellebourquecoaching.com/newsletter
Timestamps:
00:00 – Cancer season and the energy you inherited before you had a say
03:00 – Cathy Heller's class: why we don't go after the dream (it's not laziness)
07:00 – The Third Door: growth's quietly brutal cost — the people you leave behind
11:00 – The neuroscience: transgenerational epigenetic inheritance, explained simply
16:00 – Bringing it into your Tuesday: the O.R. at 6am and the whispering voice
21:00 – Journal prompt and the one small action to try this week -
Episode 390: The Freedom to Rise — How Changing What You Think, Feel, and Do Changes Everything
Episode 390: The Freedom to Rise — How Changing What You Think, Feel, and Do Changes Everything
You wake up with the same thoughts. Feel the same feelings. Do the same things. And then wonder why nothing changes. Friend, that's not a personal flaw — that's literally how your brain is wired. And in this episode, we're talking about how to actually interrupt it.
What You'll Learn✨ Why you're not stuck because of circumstances — you're stuck because of the thought loop your brain keeps running on repeat
The Big Takeaway
✨ The neuroscience behind why your brain resists change (and what Dr. Joe Dispenza says about rewiring it)
✨ How Brooke Castillo's model changed everything Michelle believed about who creates her experience
✨ The identity work, body work, and subconscious tools that coaching and journaling alone couldn't reach
✨ How every mentor, framework, and tool Michelle has studied over the years became the RISE Method
✨ The one question to sit with today that can start to shift everythingPersonal freedom isn't something that gets declared once and then just exists. It has to be chosen by you, every single day. The real declaration of independence is the moment you decide your past thoughts don't have to become your future reality.
RISE Method ConnectionThis episode touches all four pillars — but at its heart, it's an R — Resilient Mindset episode. The foundation of everything is learning to notice the thought that's been running on a loop, question it, and choose something different.
Ready to go deeper? Join the weekly newsletter at michellebourquecoaching.com/newsletter
Timestamps
00:00 — Welcome + why the week of July 4th called for a different kind of freedom conversation 02:30 — The thought-feeling-action loop and why your brain keeps you in the past 06:00 — Layer 1: Managing your mind — Brooke Castillo, The Model, and Jen Sincero 09:30 — Layer 2: Identity and belief — Gay Hendricks, James Clear, Benjamin Hardy, Darren Hardy, Cathy Heller 14:00 — Layer 3: The body and the subconscious — Joe Dispenza, Rhonda Farr, hypnosis, and IFS 18:30 — How all of it became the RISE Method + the one question to sit with today -
Saknas det avsnitt?
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Episode 389: Mid-Year Reset for Women in Medical Device
Six months down, six to go — and if you're in medical device or field-based sales, I'm willing to bet the first half of this year felt productive on paper and quietly exhausting underneath. Not because you're doing something wrong. Because the job you're actually doing is bigger than the one on your job description.
In this episode, we're naming that invisible weight, explaining what it's doing in your nervous system, and giving you a concrete reset you can use before your next hard meeting.
What You'll Learn✨ Why the exhaustion you feel by mid-year isn't random — and what's actually causing it neurologically
The Big Takeaway
✨ The biology of burnout explained simply: your amygdala, your prefrontal cortex, and why "just relax" has never worked for anyone
✨ How cognitive reappraisal (a CBT tool) literally rewires your brain's stress response over time
✨ Why your gut instincts are pattern recognition — and why trusting them is a performance strategy, not woo
✨ A 3-step, 5-minute reset practice you can use in real time
✨ A journal prompt for the second half of the year that will change how you carry the loadThe load you've been carrying is real. The relationship labor, the emotional labor, the constant low hum of being the calm, capable one in every room — none of that shows up on the quota sheet. But the way your nervous system responds to it? That part you actually have leverage over.
This one hits all four pillars of the RISE Method — Resilient Mindset, Inner Energy, Success Strategy, and Empowered Self-Trust — because a mid-year reset isn't a one-time fix. It's the rewrite.
Ready to go deeper? Join the weekly newsletter at michellebourquecoaching.com/newsletter
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Ok friends, that's what I have for you this week. Let's meet back next week — for now — lead your life with intention because it's YOUR time. Make it a great day — take care!
Timestamps 00:00 — The invisible weight of the first half of the year 04:30 — Why women in clinical and field sales carry a different kind of load 09:00 — The neuroscience of burnout: amygdala, cortisol, and the slow slide 14:00 — CBT and cognitive reappraisal: how to rewire in real moments 19:30 — Nervous system regulation and trusting your body signals 24:00 — The 3-step mid-year reset practice + journal prompt -
Big change can feel disorienting even when you know it's the right move — and there's actual neuroscience behind why. In this episode of It's Your Time, host Michelle Bourque breaks down neural transfer, the brain science explaining why the skills you built in one chapter of your life (career, relationships, leadership) are already wired to carry you into the next one.
Michelle shares what she's learned firsthand while relocating from New York to Florida after two decades in medical device sales, plus a powerful reframe from a mentor on why "I don't have management experience" is almost never actually true. You'll learn about far transfer, the brain's negativity bias, and the reticular activating system (RAS) — and why noticing synchronicities might be more science than woo.
If you're in any kind of transition — career change, identity shift, new chapter — this episode will help you see the evidence you already have that you're ready.
Listen now, and join Michelle's email list for weekly real talk, practical tools, and behind-the-scenes updates: michellebourquecoaching.com/newsletter
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Are you constantly busy but still feeling like something is missing?
In this powerful replay, Michelle Bourque sits down with emotions expert and coach Rhonda Farr to explore why high performers often struggle to slow down—and why creating space may be the key to reaching your next level of success.
Together they discuss:
✔️ Why busyness can become a form of emotional avoidance
✔️ The difference between productive action and aligned action
✔️ How childhood programming influences success, money, and self-worth
✔️ Why many high achievers feel disconnected despite external success
✔️ Simple ways to cultivate self-awareness and emotional resilience
✔️ The power of gratitude, presence, and slowing downIf you've been feeling the pull toward something bigger while simultaneously feeling exhausted by the pace you're keeping, this conversation will challenge you to redefine what success truly means.
Key Topics: high performance, personal growth, emotional intelligence, work-life balance, productivity, mindset, self-awareness, success habits, burnout prevention, leadership development, coaching, nervous system regulation, gratitude practice, aligned action, personal transformation.
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In this special replay episode of It's Your Time, Michelle sits down with Medtronic leader Natalie de Minaur to explore what it really means to trust yourself, embrace change, and have the courage to pivot when life calls you in a new direction.
Together they discuss redefining success, building self-confidence, navigating career transitions, setting boundaries, protecting your energy, and letting go of the belief that your path has to look like everyone else's.
If you've been feeling pulled toward something new but fear, doubt, or uncertainty keep holding you back, this conversation is a powerful reminder that growth rarely happens inside your comfort zone—and that self-confidence isn't having all the answers. It's trusting that you'll figure it out along the way.
In this episode you'll learn:
• How to redefine success for your current season of life
• Why comparing your journey to others keeps you stuck
• The connection between self-trust and confidence
• How to protect your energy and avoid burnout
• Why pivots often become the catalyst for growth
• How to quiet self-doubt and listen to your inner wisdomBecause sometimes the next version of your life begins with one brave decision.
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Why do so many high-achieving women end up resenting the very life they worked so hard to build?
In this episode, Michelle explores the hidden cost of overfunctioning, chronic responsibility, and the nervous system patterns that keep women stuck carrying everything for everyone else. From perfectionism and control to emotional labor and people-pleasing, this conversation unpacks why success can still feel exhausting underneath the surface.
Inside this episode, you'll learn:
Why resentment is often a signal, not a flaw The neuroscience behind overfunctioning and hyper-responsibility Common thought patterns keeping women trapped in burnout cycles How nervous system safety impacts leadership, boundaries, and relationships Practical ways to stop rescuing, start asking for support, and release self-pressureIf you're a woman in leadership, sales, business, or a high-performance environment who feels emotionally overloaded despite "having it all together," this episode will help you create a more sustainable way forward—one built on self-trust instead of constant self-sacrifice.
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What if burnout, frustration, and feeling stuck aren't signs that something is wrong with you… but signs that you've been operating against your natural design?
In this episode, Michelle explores the foundations of human design and why this powerful self-awareness tool can completely change the way you approach work, leadership, relationships, energy, and success.
You'll learn:
the 5 human design types and how each operates differently why high-achieving women often burn out trying to follow someone else's formula how understanding your energy can improve decision-making and nervous system regulation the connection between alignment, performance, and sustainable success why work-life integration matters more than balanceMichelle also shares how human design supports the Performance Rewritten framework — helping women stop forcing, start trusting themselves, and create success in a way that actually feels good.
If you've been searching for more clarity, confidence, and self-trust in your work and life, this episode is a powerful place to begin. Check it out today - so much fun! 💃
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What if high performance didn't have to come at the cost of your nervous system, energy, and well-being?
In this episode, Michelle explores the hidden mental load so many women in sales and leadership roles carry — and why burnout is often less about capability and more about chronic cognitive overload.
Through the lens of neuroscience, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and sustainable performance, she breaks down:
The connection between cortisol, stress, and sales performance Why women are often both highly engaged and deeply burned out The cognitive distortions that fuel hustle culture How nervous system regulation impacts confidence, relationships, and results Practical strategies to create sustainable success without depletionIf you're a high-achieving woman who's tired of feeling like success has to equal exhaustion, this episode offers a new way forward.
Because sustainable performance isn't settling. It's the highest level of performance there is.
Take a listen now.
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Struggling with rejection in sales? You're not alone—and more importantly, you're not doing it wrong.
In this episode of It's Your Time, Certified Life Coach Michelle Arnold Bourque breaks down the neuroscience of rejection and why it feels so personal—especially for women in sales and high-performance roles.
Here's the truth: your brain processes rejection the same way it processes physical pain. That tight chest, sinking feeling, or emotional spiral after a "no"? It's biological—not a sign that you're too sensitive or not cut out for sales.
But here's where your power begins.
You'll learn how to stop turning rejection into a confidence killer—and instead use it as a strategic advantage.
✨ In this episode, you'll discover: Why rejection triggers real pain in the brain (and what that means for your performance) The "90-second rule" that helps you recover faster from a sales rejection How to stop overthinking and shorten rumination cycles The key mindset shift that separates top performers from those who stay stuck How to detach your self-worth from your sales results Why every "no" is actually valuable data for growthIf you've ever replayed a sales call for hours, questioned your abilities after a rejection, or felt emotionally drained from putting yourself out there—this episode will change how you approach every "no" moving forward.
It's time to stop taking rejection personally and start using it powerfully.
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Burnout in sales doesn't always look like falling behind—it often shows up when you're performing at your highest level.
In this episode, Michelle breaks down the difference between being tired and true burnout, and why so many high-achieving women in sales are operating in a state of chronic stress without realizing it.
You'll learn:
How to identify early signs of burnout in your body and behavior What's happening in your nervous system under constant pressure Why rest alone isn't enough once burnout sets in A practical 3-step framework to regain control: recognize, regulate, and redesignIf you've been pushing through, staying "fine," and wondering why it's not working anymore—this episode will help you understand what's really going on and how to shift it.
Because sustainable performance isn't about pushing harder.
It's about building capacity. -
Why do so many high-performing women in sales still feel like frauds—despite the results, promotions, and proof?
In this episode, Michelle breaks down imposter syndrome through the lens of neuroscience, nervous system regulation, and cognitive behavioral tools. You'll learn why this experience isn't a mindset failure—but a natural response to growth, visibility, and stepping into new identity levels.
Inside this episode:
The neuroscience behind imposter syndrome (amygdala + prediction error) Why your brain resists updating your identity—even after success The 3 cognitive distortions that keep self-doubt alive A simple 3-step tool: Name it, Neutralize it, Choose again How to regulate your nervous system in high-stakes sales momentsIf you've ever questioned whether you belong in the room—this episode will help you understand why… and what to do instead.
www.michellebourquecoaching.com/newsletter
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What happens when life doesn't go according to plan—and the identity you expected no longer fits?
In this episode, Michelle sits down with Lana Manikowski to explore life after infertility, and the deeper conversations around identity, worthiness, and redefining success as a woman.
They discuss:
The emotional impact of infertility and unmet expectations How women internalize worthiness through achievement and motherhood Why belonging can feel challenging—and how to reclaim it A new perspective on purpose that removes pressure and creates freedom Expanding connection, community, and meaning in your lifeThis episode is a grounded, honest look at what it means to rebuild your story—and how to create a life that feels purposeful, connected, and fully your own.
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What if your personal brand has nothing to do with how much you produce—and everything to do with how people experience you?
In this episode, we redefine performance through the lens of identity, nervous system regulation, and intentional leadership. You'll learn why sustainable success isn't built on overworking or proving your value—but on consistency, trust, and how you show up under pressure.
Inside, we explore:
The neuroscience behind trust, predictability, and influence How stress impacts your communication, decision-making, and presence Why your "pattern" matters more than any single achievement A powerful reframe: from reactive performance to self-led leadership Simple daily practices to build a calm, credible, and impactful personal brandIf you're a high-performing woman in sales or leadership who feels the pressure to constantly prove yourself, this episode will help you shift from effort-driven success to aligned, sustainable performance.
Because your brand isn't your output.
It's your presence—over time.www.michellebourquecoaching.com/newsletter
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If you've been feeling the pull for a reset—but don't know where to start—this episode offers a grounded, practical way in.
Inspired by Atomic Habits and The Big Leap, we explore how small habit shifts and deeper identity work come together to create lasting change.
Inside this episode, you'll learn:
Why tiny, consistent habits matter more than big, temporary changes The difference between changing outcomes vs. changing identity How to "stack" habits so they actually stick What might be keeping you from your next level (even if things look successful on the outside) How to recognize and move beyond your upper limit patternsThis is about more than productivity or discipline.
It's about becoming the version of you who naturally creates the results you want—without stress, guilt, or force.www.michellebourquecoaching.com/newsletter
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If you've ever felt like you're right on the edge of your next level—only to pull back, procrastinate, or create stress out of nowhere… this episode is for you.
In this episode of It's Your Time, Michelle breaks down the upper limit problem, a concept from Gay Hendricks' The Big Leap, and explains why so many high-achieving women unconsciously self-sabotage when things start going well.
You'll learn how your nervous system, subconscious beliefs, and identity work together to keep you operating within a familiar "set point" for success—and why growth can actually feel like anxiety.
Michelle also introduces the concept of disintegration anxiety, where your old identity begins to fall away before your next level fully forms—and why that discomfort is not a sign to stop, but a sign you're evolving.
This episode blends neuroscience, cognitive behavioral tools, and identity work to help you understand what's really happening when you feel stuck or overwhelmed at the edge of growth.
In this episode, you'll learn: What the upper limit problem is and how it shows up as self-sabotage Why your brain perceives success and growth as a threat The role of your amygdala and nervous system in holding you back What disintegration anxiety is and why it's a necessary part of growth How to shift automatic thoughts using CBT-based tools Practical ways to regulate your nervous system and expand your identityIf you're a high-performing woman in sales or leadership who feels like you should be further along—but something keeps holding you back—this episode will help you understand why.
And more importantly, what to do next.
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Most high performers are excellent at taking action.
We know how to work hard, stay productive, and keep moving forward. But what we often don't examine is the belief underneath the work.
In this episode, Michelle shares a powerful coaching experience that revealed a belief many ambitious professionals quietly carry: the idea that our worth is tied to how hard we work.
Through the lens of neuroscience and mindset work, she explores how unconscious beliefs shape our behavior—and how we can begin to change them.
Inside this episode, you'll learn:
Why 90–95% of our thinking happens unconsciously
How metacognition (thinking about your thinking) creates the space for real change
The role of neuroplasticity in rewiring your brain
How the Reticular Activating System (RAS) filters the evidence you see in your life
Why small shifts in belief create powerful long-term identity changes
A new metric for success many high performers overlook: joy
If you've ever measured your value through productivity, this episode offers a different way to think about growth, success, and self-trust.
www.michellebourquecoaching.com/connect
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High achievers are often praised for working harder, pushing longer, and producing more.
But what if the next level of success actually requires slowing down?
In this episode, Michelle is joined by emotions expert and coach Rhonda Farr for a candid conversation about the hidden patterns many high performers experience — including workaholism, identity around productivity, and the discomfort of slowing down.
Together they explore:
• Why high performers often avoid slowing down
• How early conditioning shapes our beliefs about success and worthiness
• The role of nervous system regulation in sustainable performance
• How metacognition helps us question old patterns and create new ones
• Small practices that can help you reconnect with yourselfIf you've ever felt like your life looks successful on the outside but doesn't always feel that way internally, this conversation will help you understand why — and what you can begin doing differently.
Check out Rhonda's info:
https://rhondafarr.com/
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High-achieving women in sales and leadership roles are often praised for their drive, resilience, and capacity to "handle it all."
But what if burnout isn't a time-management issue — it's an identity pattern?
In this episode, Michelle explores how stress can become neurologically wired into your sense of self — and why slowing down can actually trigger anxiety in high performers.
You'll learn:
How your nervous system memorizes urgency and over-responsibility
The science of neuroplasticity and identity rewiring
What "disintegration anxiety" is and why it keeps women stuck in burnout cycles
The difference between tolerance and true leadership capacity
How to build sustainable success without self-abandonment
If you're a woman in sales or a performance-driven role who is ready to lead without proving, achieve without burning out, and expand your capacity without losing yourself — this episode will shift how you think about ambition, energy, and identity.
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As Q1 comes to a close, this episode offers a powerful self-love reset for high-achieving women — especially women in sales, leadership, and performance-driven roles.
This is not self-love as self-care.
This is self-love as identity, boundaries, and intentional decision-making.Inside this episode, you'll explore:
Why goals are achieved through identity — not intention
How over-functioning drains your energy and performance
The leadership skill of setting clear boundaries
The difficult conversation that may unlock your momentum
How to choose one focused goal that builds confidence and follow-through
If you've been feeling behind, stretched thin, or reactive as March approaches, this episode will help you reset with clarity, protect your nervous system, and define wealth, wellness, and wild success on your terms.
Because real performance is built on self-respect. And self-respect is self-love.
- Visa fler
