Podcast Description

No Shrinking Violets, ranked in the top 10% of all podcasts globally, is all about what it truly means for women to take up their space in the world – mind, body and spirit. Mary Rothwell, licensed therapist, certified functional nutrition coach, and certified forest therapy practitioner, has seen women “stay small” and fit into the space in life that they have been conditioned to believe they deserve. 

Drawing on 35 years in the mental health field and from her perspective as a woman who was often told to “stay in your lane,” Mary discusses how early experiences, society and sometimes our own limiting beliefs can convince us that living inside guardrails is the best — or only — option. She’ll explore how to recognize our unique essential nature and how to use that to empower a new narrative.Through topics that span psychology, friendships, nature, overcoming challenges, and even gut-brain health, Mary creates a space that is inspiring and authentic – where she celebrates the intuition and power of women who want to chart their own course and program their own GPS.

Mary’s guests are women with compelling stories and/or work that is inspiring and uplifts other women. She talks about setting boundaries, communicating, and relationships, and explores mental health and wellness: trauma and resilience, how our food impacts our mood and the power of simple daily habits. And so much more! Her solo topics often center around connecting to your Essential Nature as a guide to find growth and fulfillment. She loves to talk about how to live like a plant! (Yes, you read that right – the example of plants is often the most insightful path to knowing what we truly need to feel fulfilled). 

Why No Shrinking Violets? As a gardener, Mary knows that violets have been misjudged for centuries and are actually one of the most resilient and ecologically important plants in her native garden. Like violets, women are often underestimated, and they can even mistake their unique gifts for weaknesses. Join Mary to explore all the ways the vibrant and strong violet is an example for finding fulfillment in our own lives.

What You Need To Know + Podcast Flow

I give a brief intro into the topic we’ll be covering (chatty, sometimes with a few stats), then introduce the guest and we loosely cover the questions. I like the conversation to be organic and informal (yet professional), so I’ll often take a few side paths to add interest or flesh out an aspect of the topic. 

My tone is genuine and warm, so I like to avoid interviews sounding scripted while still having the guest feel comfortable. I think of it more as exchanging thoughts vs interviewing someone.

I use Zoom to record, so it’s crucial that guests have a stable internet connection.

About The Audience (Who Guests Are Talking To)

My audience is mostly women and men wanting to support women. Often my female listeners are in midlife, but I cover topics of interest to those 30 and older. My listeners are often interested in wellness and in finding ways to expand and live an aligned, fulfilled life. More than once, women have shared that they think of my title, No Shrinking Violets, when they are facing a challenge and need courage to take up their space. Many of them also have a connection to and appreciation of nature, as well as an interest in mind-body-spirit health.