In this episode of Her Unshakeable Confidence, hosts Simone and Olivia Knego and guest Kathy Washburn, a life coach, cancer survivor, and expert in positive psychology and emotional health, explore self-worth, personal growth, and the transformative power of life experiences. Kathy shares how her own cancer diagnosis led her to create *Carved by Cancer*, a supportive community dedicated to emotional well-being.
Throughout the conversation, Simone, Olivia, and Kathy discuss the impact of emotional suppression, the generational shift in self-advocacy, and the importance of self-discovery. They tackle the struggles of finding one’s true self, embracing vulnerability, and learning to receive support. This episode is filled with powerful takeaways on authenticity, self-worth, and confidence—reminding us that embracing imperfection and setting boundaries are essential for living a fulfilling life.
🚀Actionable Takeaways
1. Focus on Strengths.
Instead of dwelling on weaknesses, recognize and embrace the good within yourself.
2. Emotional Health Impacts Physical Health
Suppressing emotions can contribute to serious health issues.
3. Transformation Through Experience
Major life events—like cancer, divorce, or career shifts—can serve as opportunities for deep personal growth.
4.Self-Worth is an Inside Job
Your value isn’t based on external validation—true fulfillment comes from within.
5. Suppressing Emotions Leads to Codependency
Ignoring your feelings can result in unhealthy relationships where your self-worth is tied to others.
6. Self-Discovery is Key
Many professionals are realizing they’ve pursued careers that don’t align with who they truly are.
7. Hard Conversations Build Trust
Avoiding difficult discussions creates unresolved conflicts—addressing them fosters authenticity and connection.
8. We Don’t Need Permission to Be Ourselves
Stop waiting for approval—show up as yourself, unapologetically.
📖 Chapters
00:00 – Introduction to Kathy Washburn and Her Work
01:29 – The Power of Positive Psychology
03:28 – “Carved by Cancer”: A Community for Survivors
05:57 – Transformative Experiences and Emotional Health
13:32 – The Importance of Self-Worth and Authenticity
17:27 – Self-Discovery and Personal Strengths
27:17 – Education, Individuality, and Creativity
29:00 – Navigating Career Choices and Changing Paths
31:57 – The Role of Authenticity in Building Confidence
36:05 – The Importance of Receiving and Setting Boundaries
42:03 – Embracing Imperfection and Learning to Accept Help
47:57 – Confidence, Self-Expression, and Taking Action
About Kathy Washburn
Kathy Washburn is a life coach, speaker, and cancer survivor who specializes in positive psychology, emotional health, and post-traumatic growth. She is the founder of “Carved by Cancer”, a community designed to help cancer survivors and individuals navigate emotional well-being. With a background in finance and 25 years of investment experience, Kathy made a career pivot to focus on coaching and helping people rediscover their strengths and authenticity.
Her TEDx talk, *What Investing Taught Me About Emotional Health*, delves into the connection between emotional well-being and overall health. Kathy is passionate about teaching people to set boundaries, receive support, and build confidence through self-awareness and resilience.
Connect with Kathy Washburn
TEDx Talk: *What Investing Taught Me About Emotional Health
💬 Connect with Us
Don’t forget to subscribe to Her Unshakeable Confidence for more empowering stories and actionable insights. Leave us a review, share your favorite moments, and tag us on social media!
✨ Take our new QUIZ and find out how much self-doubt is holding you back.
🎁Subscribe to our exclusive email list and receive our downloadable, FREE GUIDE, Positive affirmations to Live Life Authentically
Click HERE to get your copy!
📖 Order Simone’s Book
Connect with Simone Knego:
Connect with Olivia Knego:
Listen to Episode on:
