Breaking Free: How to Own Your Story and Step Boldly into Your Future

In this Season 2 episode of "Pass the Mic," transformational Narrative Coach Mandy Schulis—creator of The Story Shift, trauma-informed Licensed Massage Therapist, and author of 48 Hours to Change Your Life—joins us to share her powerful journey from hardship to healing. Drawing from her personal triumph over domestic violence and two decades of entrepreneurial experience, Mandy discusses overcoming trauma, single motherhood, and rebuilding life from the ground up.

She introduces her Story Shift methodology, a framework that helps individuals reframe their narratives, transform their businesses, and use their experiences as meaningful tools for connection and impact. Through candid storytelling, Mandy explores resilience, self-ownership, and the importance of supportive communities. The episode also highlights her holistic approach to coaching, including Reiki and integrative healing practices, along with the launch of her new Story Shift Academy.

Listeners will walk away with practical strategies for personal transformation and inspiration to step confidently into their next chapter—proof that when we own and share our stories with intention, we not only heal ourselves but help others do the same.

Key Topics & Timestamps

Introducing Mandy Schulis (00:01:13) Mandy's background, expertise, and the focus of her work are highlighted.

Single Motherhood & Entrepreneurship (00:06:38) Mandy and the host share experiences balancing business and motherhood, especially as single parents.

Lessons from Domestic Violence (00:15:09) Mandy shares insights and growth from her experience with domestic violence and the power of forgiveness.

Bottlenecks and Admitting the Truth (00:20:50) Discussion of the internal struggle before leaving an unhealthy relationship and the importance of honesty.

Finding Support & Community (00:23:07) Mandy talks about unexpected support from other women and learning to accept help.

Feeling Alone & Family Dynamics (00:24:13) Mandy describes feeling isolated and the challenges with family support during tough times.

Honoring Past Versions of Ourselves (00:28:46) The importance of integrating and honoring previous versions of oneself.

Current Season: When It Gets Good (00:35:10) Mandy describes her current, more stable and fulfilling life with Matt.

Parenting Neurodiverse Children (00:39:49) Mandy discusses raising children with unique needs and her own neurodiversity.

Living Her Dream Life (00:48:55) A look at Mandy's ideal work-life balance and fulfillment in her current routine.

What is Story Shift? (00:51:26) Mandy explains the Story Shift methodology and its purpose as a bridge for personal transformation.

Rapid Fire: Reflections from Friends (00:56:59) Mandy imagines what her best friend would say about her growth and transformation.

How to Work with Mandy & Story Shift Academy (01:01:32) Details on the upcoming Story Shift Academy and how listeners can join.

Collaboration & Community Building (01:06:24) The hosts discuss the importance of collaboration and expanding impact together.

Final Thoughts & Life Lessons (01:07:53) Mandy shares a favorite quote about change and encourages listeners to take control of their stories.

Powerful Quotes from the Episode

Mandy, 'My back story is doing everything in spite of the thing, fueling it out of pure spite some days—I refuse to stay down.'

Mandy, 'Story shifting is special because it's a way of taking your power back.'

Mandy, 'I had tears of joy—like, holy shit, we made it. This is the life you dreamed of.'

Mandy, 'Your kids are going to be okay. You're going to be okay. You're going to be better than okay. It's just a season—a long season, but a season.'

Mandy, 'Get really honest with yourself. If the only commonality in your patterns is you, you're playing an active part in it.'

Resources CONNECT with Mandy Schulis Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amanda.schulis Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mandyschulisofficial?igsh=MTI3Z2Mwa29xaHA5Nw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandyschulis/ Book: 48 Hours to Change Your Life: https://amzn.to/49gBXFS Connect with the Show

Pass the Mic Podcast: A unique monthly format featuring different experts in their zones of genius
Resilient Voice Media: A global podcast network and production company amplifying great people who do great work
Host: Gabi Garland, founder of Resilient Voice Media
January Guest Host: Mandy Schulis, Transformational Narrative Coach & Creator of The Story Shift

A Resilient Voice Media Production

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• Gabi Garland CEO of Resilient Voice Media
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