Self Love and Deep Connections (ft. Dani Doran)
In Episode 26 of The Real A$$ Word, host Alison Hite (Thacker) welcomes guest Dani Doran — trauma-informed coach, somatic practitioner, and founder of Wild Fire Within. Together, they dive deep into what it really means to love yourself, show up authentically, and create safety in your body and relationships. From personal stories of divorce and growth to powerful coaching insights, this episode is both grounded and transformative.
Listen to the episode: Spotify | Apple Podcasts
Watch the episode: YouTube
Go deeper: Substack
Key Topics Covered
The journey to self-love as a foundation for all relationships
How trauma lives in the nervous system and can be healed somatically
Why authenticity is built on awareness and self-compassion
Creating safety in your body as a starting point for transformation
How relationships serve as mirrors for growth
Vulnerability as a strength and access point to deeper intimacy
Balancing motherhood, creativity, and healing
The role of community support in self-discovery
“It’s not up to anybody else —
we get to find that within ourselves.”
— Dani Doran, The Real A$$ Word Podcast
Dani Doran is a trauma-informed sex, love, and relationship coach with over 650 hours of certification. Her integrative approach weaves together somatic healing, neurobiology, tantric practice, meditation, yoga, and reiki. She helps clients rewire from survival to self-love and deeper connection.
Top 10 Takeaways from the Episode
Self-love is a practice, not a destination.
Healing begins with awareness of your needs.
Relationships reflect the work we need to do within.
Authenticity means living in alignment with your truth.
Vulnerability creates space for meaningful connection.
Community support reduces shame and isolation.
The nervous system is the gateway to sustainable healing.
Somatic tools can rewire patterns of protection into patterns of connection.
Personal transformation is nonlinear — and beautiful.
You are your own greatest relationship.
Let’s Keep the Conversation Going
What has helped you deepen your relationship with yourself? Drop a comment below, share with us here or reply to the latest podcast email.