Love Starts Within

We talk a lot about relationships—but what about the one we have with ourselves? Are we staying in relationships because we want to, or because we’re avoiding the work we need to do within? If you looked in the mirror right now, would you date the version of you today? Be brutally honest. This episode is all about self-reflection, comfort zones, and breaking the cycle of seeking external validation instead of doing the inner work. Because at the end of the day, only you can make yourself truly happy. The right person will only add to that. ❤

I’m beyond excited to have my friend Kiran on the podcast for this episode. It’s hard to put into words just how incredible she is—anyone who knows her is truly lucky to have her in their life. Kiran’s story is one of faith, resilience, and self-discovery. She opens up about her journey with God, the family history that has shaped her, and the experiences that have made her who she is today. Her wisdom, warmth, and unwavering spirit make this conversation one you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re looking for inspiration, comfort, or just a reminder that our paths are uniquely and beautifully designed, Kiran’s words will leave you feeling uplifted. I’m so grateful she’s sharing her story with all of us, and I know you’ll walk away feeling as moved as I did. 💛

We’ve made it to the final episode of the year, and I couldn’t be more grateful. Whether you’ve been here since the very beginning or joined somewhere along the way, thank you for being part of Love Starts Within. In this milestone 20th episode, I reflect on what this podcast—and this year—has taught me about myself, sharing my two biggest achievements tied to personal growth and mental health. Your messages about how Love Starts Within has inspired or helped you truly mean the world to me. What started as a personal journey has grown into a shared space of self-love and transformation, and I’m so thankful to have you here. Join me as I celebrate the wins, embrace the lessons, and look ahead to a hopeful 2025. Here’s to growing together and stepping into the new year with love and intention. Let’s do this! 💖

In this episode I share my personal experience with synchronicity. Those meaningful coincidences that seem almost too perfectly timed to be random. Are these moments truly coincidental, or is there something deeper at play?How does synchronicity show up in our lives? The science and psychology behind it, and what it could reveal about our intuition, personal growth, and connection to the universe. Whether you’ve encountered serendipitous events or are just curious about this intriguing phenomenon, this episode invites you to question the boundaries of fate and chance. Love J x

I had my friend Sam on the pod to talk all about the mental & physical benefits of starting your fitness journey. We cover everything-from building confidence in the gym and investing in yourself with an online PT, to how making fitness a priority now can transform your future self. Plus, tips on building and maintaining a healthy routine that fits your current lifestyle-and more! With love, J x Don't forget to follow to stay up-to-date with the latest episodes and sneak peeks. Plus, check out my TikTok for even more daily content... Sam's Instagram: @samsliftlife TikTok: @lovestartswithin @jessellen_x Instagram: @jessellen_x @lovestartswithinpodcast Time Stamps: 00:02:57 - Sam’s Transition into Online Coaching & Starting a Business The reality of starting your own fitness business. Embracing challenges and thriving in uncomfortable situations. 00:07:33 Shifting from tracking the scale to falling in love with building muscle. Creating a sustainable routine that lasts. 00:08:54 - Online Coaching vs. In-Person Training Breaking down the types of coaching and how to find the right PT based on your lifestyle 00:12:53 - Overcoming Gym Fear as a Beginner Tackling intimidation and understanding “Gymbros.” 00:16:36 - The Power of Morning Workouts 00:20:41 - How fitness builds confidence and aligns mind and body. 00:23:49 - Investing in Your Present & Future Self How building a healthy routine in your 20s can transform your future self. Breaking self-doubt and building lasting self-confidence. 00:31:07 - What’s the process like? Aligning values and expectations with your trainer. 00:33:26 - Sam’s Transition from Bodybuilding to Running The muscle loss myth. Why cardio is essential for overall health. 00:36:56 - Sam’s outlook on fitness at 26 compared to his 20 year old self 00:42:50 - Balancing the “all-in” mindset with knowing when to rest. 00:48:27 - Creating a Balanced Lifestyle 00:58:17 - Top 10 Exercises & Building a Routine You Love. | Why women shouldn’t fear lifting weights. 1:06:09 - Meal Planning & Healthy Eating Tips Avoiding unhealthy habits through meal prepping. Sam’s full-day meal prep breakdown and the “plate theory.” Getting creative with home-cooked meals and tracking nutrients. 1:15:28 - How social media influences fitness, finding authenticity, and avoiding quick-fix schemes. 1:33:07 - Sam’s Take on Self-Love 1:34:00 - Outro