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May 6, 2025 47 mins

What happens when you stop performing and start telling the truth—especially to yourself?

In this bold and laugh-out-loud episode of A Life Worth Being, host Sue Willoughby sits down with transformation coach, speaker, and Chief Disruptor Jen Vertanen for a no-filter conversation about the messy middle of healing, identity, and finally living life on your terms.

From decades of self-loathing and people-pleasing to becoming a 55-year-old woman who swears more, cares less, and lives fully, Jen shares:

  • Why your 80-year-old self should guide your decisions now (martini optional)

  • The connection between childhood wounds, CPTSD, and self-worth

  • Why healing takes time—and why it's 100% worth it

  • The B.E. DARE. CREATE. framework to stop waiting and start being unapologetically YOU

  • What horses, heart work, and holding space really have in common

Sound Bites

"I love being challenged." "Don't diminish those turtle steps." "It's about personal responsibility."

This is a story about taking radical responsibility, making turtle-step progress, and giving zero f*cks about what anyone else thinks. And yes, we talk about trauma, identity, healing, menopause, and even itchy ears. You’re welcome.

💥 If you’re done with checkbox living and ready to rewrite your story, this episode is your permission slip to go ALL IN.

Connect with Jen Vertanen

🔗 Learn more about Jen at

http://jenvertanen.com

🔗 Facebook: http://facebook.com/jennifervertanen

🔗 Instagram: http://instagram.com/jenvertanen

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Jen Vertanen and Her Mission 04:41 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Empowerment 07:45 Societal Expectations and Identity Crisis 10:47 Navigating Mental Health and Emotional Wellness 13:44 Reflections on Family Dynamics and Relationships 16:43 The Importance of Hope and Resilience 19:41 The Process of Transformation and Coaching 22:37 Celebrating Small Wins in Personal Growth 26:17 Incremental Growth and Intentionality 27:59 Life's Pivot Points and Personal Evolution 29:42 The Role of Horses in Healing 31:59 Transformative Experiences with Horses 34:51 Facing Major Life Changes 38:31 The Impact of Childhood Trauma 41:02 Taking Personal Responsibility for Healing 43:57 Connecting with Jen and Final Thoughts

🔗 Connect with Sue Willoughby: My Upcoming Retreats: https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/events Web: ⁠https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/⁠⁠ Insta: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/⁠ FB: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/⁠⁠ LI: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/ YT: https://www.youtube.com/@SueWilloughby

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