Buying Local Podcast · March 3, 2026 · 55 min
Breaking Patterns & Rebuilding Yourself with Karen Carey | Buying Local #66
In Episode 66 of the Buying Local Podcast, Mike Nelson sits down with intuitive life coach, speaker, and author Karen Carey to explore personal growth, emotional patterns, and the real work behind transformation. The conversation dives into her book Unbroken, unpacking how past experiences shape behavior, why discomfort often signals growth, and how self-awareness helps people rebuild their lives with intention and purpose. Connect with Karen Carey at rubyredroad.com to learn more about her coaching, speaking, and check out her book! 0:00 Welcome & introduction to Karen Carey 1:00 What an intuitive life coach actually does 2:30 Coaching misconceptions and skepticism 5:00 Experience vs. theory in helping people grow 8:30 Why discomfort is necessary for growth 12:30 Kintsugi and the philosophy behind Unbroken 14:30 Recognizing repeating life patterns 17:00 Coping mechanisms and behavioral loops 18:30 Trauma responses and emotional safety 20:00 Relearning how to have fun 22:30 Stress regulation and nervous system awareness 23:50 Writing a deeply personal book 27:00 Vulnerability and sharing your story publicly 35:30 Stop making yourself wrong 39:00 Communication tools and listening skills 41:30 Navigating hard conversations 47:00 Aging, wisdom, and continued growth 48:15 Who the book is for & where to find it 52:30 Final reflections and closing thoughts