Episode 5: Unpacking the Jargon: Common Phrases the Self-Help World Loves… and What They Actually Mean

In this episode, Amy and Jillian cut through the dense fog of self-help jargon and translate it back into… well, actual human language. From buzzwords like “holding space” and “embodiment” to phrases like “alignment,” “triggered,” and “shadow work,” they dig into why these terms became so popular, how they’re often misused, and the very real ways they can cause confusion, shame, or unintentional harm when taken out of context.

Together, they break down what these concepts were originally meant to describe, how the coaching industry has oversimplified or commercialized them, and what these ideas look like when practiced with integrity, cultural awareness, consent, and trauma-informed care. This conversation is grounded, accessible, and refreshingly honest—an antidote to the mystical-sounding language that can make personal growth feel intimidating or exclusive.

You’ll walk away with clearer definitions, practical alternatives, and a deeper understanding of why real transformation has nothing to do with mastering the right vocabulary—and everything to do with presence, curiosity, and humanity. If you’ve ever wondered what these words really mean, or felt lost in the sea of spiritual and coaching buzzwords, this episode is your invitation to exhale and re-enter this work with clarity.

👉 Listen now and subscribe so you don’t miss what’s next. And if this episode resonates, please leave a 5-star review—it helps others find the show and join the conversation.

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ABOUT THE HOSTS

Amy Lombardo is the founder of the  Brilliance Coaching Academy and author of the award-winning book Brilliance. With more than 25 years of experience as a coach, leadership mentor, and yoga teacher, Amy weaves together somatic practices, deep listening, and inclusive leadership tools to guide people into authentic transformation. Her work is rooted in the belief that each of us has an inner brilliance waiting to be expressed—and that when we nurture it, we change not only our own lives but the world around us.

Jillian Arena is a holistic life coach, founder of Intuitive Balance Coaching, and an alumna of the Brilliance Coaching Academy . She brings together coaching, Reiki, yoga, and end-of-life doula work to help people move through transitions with compassion, humor, and presence. Jillian’s style is both grounding and expansive, empowering clients to embrace the full spectrum of being human.

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BRILLIANCE COACHING ACADEMY

Want to go deeper into this work? Explore the Brilliance Coaching Academy—a trauma-aware, equity-centered coach-training program led by Amy Lombardo and Jillian Arena. It’s more than certification; it’s a living laboratory for conscious leadership, embodied transformation, and meaningful impact. Apply Now at https://coach-brilliance.com/.

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BRILLIANCE COLLECTIVE APP

Both Amy and Jillian are also guides inside the Brilliance Collective App—a space for growth and connection. It’s where daily inspiration meets real practice, where you can return to yourself in small, meaningful ways. Think of it as your pocket-sized invitation to pause and remember your brilliance anytime and anywhere.

MORE RESOURCES ON THE BRILLIANCE COLLECTIVE APP