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What if your envy could be your greatest ally on the path to personal growth? In this compelling episode, I unpack a personal journey of confronting the uncomfortable and often misunderstood emotion of envy. Sharing a story from my time in the Army, where my initial envy of others' promotions led to self-reflection and growth, I offer insights into transforming envy from a stumbling block into a stepping stone. From the initial sting of being met with indifference when sharing good news to utilizing journaling for deeper self-awareness, this episode promises a fresh perspective on envy as a catalyst for change. With the wisdom gained from mentors and hard-won resilience, I reveal how envy can fuel ambition and help maintain focus on personal and professional goals.

Life's challenges demand a delicate balance between personal desires and professional duties. Here, I share strategies to protect your peace and recognize what truly matters, emphasizing the art of boundaries and self-preservation. As a self-proclaimed master of maintaining harmony between different facets of life, I impart lessons learned along the way, encouraging you to keep your aspirations clear and your heart open. Whether you’re battling the green monster or striving for equilibrium in your life, this episode is a thoughtful guide to navigating your emotions and using them to propel you forward. Join us for this eye-opening discussion, and let's transform envy into a powerful tool for growth together.

Enter a world of fear, resilience, and generational trauma in "The Devil That Haunts Me". Follow Isabella and Julitza as they confront their demons in a tale of suspense, mystery, and the supernatural.

Explore the first seven chapters here

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🌳 Get Ready to Be Swept Away Under The Flamboyant Tree! 🌳

Discover a world where family secrets, magical realism, and the rich heritage of the Dominican Republic come to life. My upcoming novel, Under The Flamboyant Tree, follows the poignant journey of Isabella Prescott as she unravels her family’s past, seeking healing and redemption in the place she once called home.

Don’t miss out on this heart-wrenching, beautifully crafted story that explores the ties that bind us and the courage it takes to face our deepest fears. Preorder your copy today and be among the first to embark on this unforgettable journey!

Preorder Now and step under the flamboyant tree—where memories linger, and the magic of the past awaits.

https://haveacupofjohanny.com/product/under-the-flamboyant-tree/

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Have you ever felt the sting of sharing your triumphs only to be met with indifference or mockery by those you expected to stand and cheer? This season of "Have a Cup of Johanny" kicks off with a deeply personal story that unveils the emotional fallout of such moments, exploring how these reactions from our closest allies can unexpectedly shape our personal growth journey. We navigate through the emotional turmoil of seeking validation from loved ones and the profound disappointment when our achievements are belittled. This episode is a heartfelt expedition into understanding these dynamics and how to stay on the growth path, even when recognition feels out of reach.

But it’s not all about the lows; it's time to reclaim the narrative, celebrate small victories, and maintain self-validation. We delve into the importance of setting boundaries and finding ways to cherish accomplishments, whether through journaling or sharing with trusted individuals. This is a reminder that negative responses often reflect others’ internal battles and shouldn't diminish our self-worth or derail our progress. By the end of this episode, you'll be armed with strategies to thrive amidst unsupportive environments and an enticing teaser for tackling envy next week. Join us as we elevate the importance of recognizing our unique journeys, regardless of external applause.

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🌳 Get Ready to Be Swept Away Under The Flamboyant Tree! 🌳

Discover a world where family secrets, magical realism, and the rich heritage of the Dominican Republic come to life. My upcoming novel, Under The Flamboyant Tree, follows the poignant journey of Isabella Prescott as she unravels her family’s past, seeking healing and redemption in the place she once called home.

Don’t miss out on this heart-wrenching, beautifully crafted story that explores the ties that bind us and the courage it takes to face our deepest fears. Preorder your copy today and be among the first to embark on this unforgettable journey!

Preorder Now and step under the flamboyant tree—where memories linger, and the magic of the past awaits.

https://haveacupofjohanny.com/product/under-the-flamboyant-tree/

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What if you could connect with loved ones who have passed in a meaningful way that spans across cultures and traditions? Join me as I share my personal journey of building a heartfelt altar at home, inspired by the vibrant Mexican tradition of La Ofrenda, to honor cherished family members and pets. This episode explores the significance of Dia de Muertos and how it joyfully welcomes spirits back for a day of remembrance. We also travel to Haiti to uncover the unique Fete Guedet, a celebration that melds elements of Mardi Gras, Halloween, and Dia de Muertos, and venture to Bolivia for the Fiesta de las Ñatitas, where families commemorate skulls believed to forge protective bonds with their caretakers. Through these global traditions, we reflect on the universal desire to honor and remain connected to those we've lost.

Expressing love takes many forms, and in this chapter, I offer inspiration and ideas on how to commemorate the memories of those who have departed. From personal stories to cultural rituals, this discussion emphasizes the importance of maintaining connections through meaningful practices. Engage with the conversation by sharing your own experiences, leaving comments, and rating the podcast. Your input enriches our exploration and keeps the dialogue alive. Thank you for being part of this heartfelt journey, and I look forward to sharing more personal reflections and cultural insights with you in the episodes to come.

Support the show

🌳 Get Ready to Be Swept Away Under The Flamboyant Tree! 🌳

Discover a world where family secrets, magical realism, and the rich heritage of the Dominican Republic come to life. My upcoming novel, Under The Flamboyant Tree, follows the poignant journey of Isabella Prescott as she unravels her family’s past, seeking healing and redemption in the place she once called home.

Don’t miss out on this heart-wrenching, beautifully crafted story that explores the ties that bind us and the courage it takes to face our deepest fears. Preorder your copy today and be among the first to embark on this unforgettable journey!

Preorder Now and step under the flamboyant tree—where memories linger, and the magic of the past awaits.

https://haveacupofjohanny.com/product/under-the-flamboyant-tree/

Send us a text

Have you ever wondered if your dreams are more than just figments of your imagination? Join me as I share personal stories of encountering my pets, John and Lento, in dreams that felt like spiritual communications. Inspired by my grandmother's belief that dreams can be a farewell from the spirits, I dive into the mystical connection between dreams, divination, and messages from our departed loved ones. Discover how journaling before sleep can help process thoughts and emotions, potentially unlocking the hidden messages in your dreams.

The comfort found in dreams can be profound, especially when they feature those we've lost. I recount a dream of my beloved pet, Lento, that provided reassurance of his peaceful crossing over the rainbow bridge. The solace doesn't end there; tarot readings have also been a source of comfort during times of loss. A recent tarot experience brought peace to my mind, and I'm eager to invite you all to share your thoughts and engage with our community. Don't forget to leave your comments, rate the show, and share it with those you hold dear. Let's explore how dreams and tarot can offer profound comfort and insight into our lives.

Support the show

🌳 Get Ready to Be Swept Away Under The Flamboyant Tree! 🌳

Discover a world where family secrets, magical realism, and the rich heritage of the Dominican Republic come to life. My upcoming novel, Under The Flamboyant Tree, follows the poignant journey of Isabella Prescott as she unravels her family’s past, seeking healing and redemption in the place she once called home.

Don’t miss out on this heart-wrenching, beautifully crafted story that explores the ties that bind us and the courage it takes to face our deepest fears. Preorder your copy today and be among the first to embark on this unforgettable journey!

Preorder Now and step under the flamboyant tree—where memories linger, and the magic of the past awaits.

https://haveacupofjohanny.com/product/under-the-flamboyant-tree/

Send us a text

Have you ever found yourself yearning to communicate with a loved one who has passed away? I discovered an unconventional yet transformative way to process grief: writing letters to my departed fur baby, John. In this heartfelt episode of "Have a Cup of Johanny," I share how this simple practice has become a bridge between my world and the cherished memories of my beloved pet. Listen as I recount touching anecdotes and hilarious incidents, like the time John hilariously swiped pizza right from my stepdaughter's fingers—a moment so vivid it continues to bring a smile to my face. These small acts of remembrance have not only allowed me to honor John's life but also provided a sense of peace and continued connection.

Through the art of letter writing, I've found solace in the midst of sorrow and discovered a way to keep the spirit of my furry companion alive in my heart. This episode builds upon previous discussions about meditation and celebrating the lives of our pets by offering a unique perspective on navigating grief. Whether you're a fellow fur parent or someone seeking comfort after a loss, join me on this journey of growth and personal discovery. Together, we'll explore how simple notes capturing everyday moments can help us cherish and celebrate the lives we've loved and lost, providing comfort and healing along the way.

Support the show

🌳 Get Ready to Be Swept Away Under The Flamboyant Tree! 🌳

Discover a world where family secrets, magical realism, and the rich heritage of the Dominican Republic come to life. My upcoming novel, Under The Flamboyant Tree, follows the poignant journey of Isabella Prescott as she unravels her family’s past, seeking healing and redemption in the place she once called home.

Don’t miss out on this heart-wrenching, beautifully crafted story that explores the ties that bind us and the courage it takes to face our deepest fears. Preorder your copy today and be among the first to embark on this unforgettable journey!

Preorder Now and step under the flamboyant tree—where memories linger, and the magic of the past awaits.

https://haveacupofjohanny.com/product/under-the-flamboyant-tree/

Send us a text

What if embracing your chaotic thoughts during meditation could be the key to healing from profound grief? This week on "Have a Cup of Johanny," I open up about the deeply personal journey through the loss of my beloved pets, Lentil and John, and how meditation became an unexpected ally in my healing process. Initially, meditation seemed like an insurmountable challenge, with my mind racing and refusing to settle. However, a simple piece of advice from a meditation guide changed everything: acknowledging rather than fighting my thoughts. This shift allowed me to process emotions more fully, stay connected to precious memories, and find a path forward amidst the turmoil.

Join me as I explore the transformative power of meditation in acknowledging and accepting emotions rather than burying them. Through therapy, journaling, and guided meditations, I've learned to navigate the storm of grief without succumbing to it. This episode invites listeners on a journey of self-awareness and emotional acceptance, offering insights into how meditation can serve as a powerful tool for healing. Whether you're struggling with loss or seeking a deeper understanding of your emotions, discover how acknowledging your feelings can lead to clarity and peace.

Support the show

🌳 Get Ready to Be Swept Away Under The Flamboyant Tree! 🌳

Discover a world where family secrets, magical realism, and the rich heritage of the Dominican Republic come to life. My upcoming novel, Under The Flamboyant Tree, follows the poignant journey of Isabella Prescott as she unravels her family’s past, seeking healing and redemption in the place she once called home.

Don’t miss out on this heart-wrenching, beautifully crafted story that explores the ties that bind us and the courage it takes to face our deepest fears. Preorder your copy today and be among the first to embark on this unforgettable journey!

Preorder Now and step under the flamboyant tree—where memories linger, and the magic of the past awaits.

https://haveacupofjohanny.com/product/under-the-flamboyant-tree/

Send us a text

How do you navigate the heart-wrenching journey of losing a pet who was more like a family member? In this deeply personal episode of "Have a Cup of Johanny," I open up about the profound grief of losing my beloved Lento and John. I share the unique bond I had with my comforting cat and loyal dog and reflect on the emotional challenges of 2024, a year shadowed by their loss. Through heartfelt anecdotes and honest reflections, I reveal how sharing their stories and honoring their memories has helped me cope with the overwhelming feelings of loss.

In the second chapter, I recount the rescue and adoption journey of John, a spirited dog I saved from mistreatment in Korea. His story—from a precarious situation to becoming an essential part of my family—is a testament to the emotional rollercoaster of pet rescue. I also share how immortalizing John in my book, "Mrs. Franchi's Evil Ring," has brought me peace and a way to celebrate his life. Join me as we explore the powerful bonds we share with our furry babies and discover how sharing their legacies can bring comfort and healing in the face of loss.

Support the show

🌳 Get Ready to Be Swept Away Under The Flamboyant Tree! 🌳

Discover a world where family secrets, magical realism, and the rich heritage of the Dominican Republic come to life. My upcoming novel, Under The Flamboyant Tree, follows the poignant journey of Isabella Prescott as she unravels her family’s past, seeking healing and redemption in the place she once called home.

Don’t miss out on this heart-wrenching, beautifully crafted story that explores the ties that bind us and the courage it takes to face our deepest fears. Preorder your copy today and be among the first to embark on this unforgettable journey!

Preorder Now and step under the flamboyant tree—where memories linger, and the magic of the past awaits.

https://haveacupofjohanny.com/product/under-the-flamboyant-tree/

Send us a text

Can forgiving yourself truly set you free? In this episode of "Have a Cup of Johanny," I, Johanny Ortega, invite you to explore the transformative power of forgiveness through the emotional journey of Bianca, the star of "Under the Flamboyant Tree." As we conclude our September series, I share personal insights and reflections on the complexities of self-forgiveness and the profound liberation that comes with it. Through Bianca's return to the Dominican Republic, she encounters individuals who help her understand the principles of self-care, self-love, and self-respect, shedding light on the importance of empathy and context in our lives.

Discover how the act of forgiving others is not about condoning harmful actions but about freeing yourself from the chains of resentment. Join me as I recount my own struggles and breakthroughs in learning to forgive past mistakes, both my own and those of others. Through this heartfelt conversation, I hope to convey the message that forgiveness is a continuous journey requiring immense patience and self-compassion. Tune in to grasp the nuances of this powerful theme and understand how letting go can pave the way to a more peaceful and fulfilling life.

Support the show

🌳 Get Ready to Be Swept Away Under The Flamboyant Tree! 🌳

Discover a world where family secrets, magical realism, and the rich heritage of the Dominican Republic come to life. My upcoming novel, Under The Flamboyant Tree, follows the poignant journey of Isabella Prescott as she unravels her family’s past, seeking healing and redemption in the place she once called home.

Don’t miss out on this heart-wrenching, beautifully crafted story that explores the ties that bind us and the courage it takes to face our deepest fears. Preorder your copy today and be among the first to embark on this unforgettable journey!

Preorder Now and step under the flamboyant tree—where memories linger, and the magic of the past awaits.

https://haveacupofjohanny.com/product/under-the-flamboyant-tree/