This episode is brought to you by Lume: Control Body Odor ANYWHERE with @lumedeodorant and get 15% off with promo code VALERIA at https://www.LumeDeodorant.com! #lumepodValeria sits down with her close friend, Aleks Malkin, to discuss the beauty and complexities of life's choices, personal growth, and the paths not taken. The episode dives deep into themes of self-reflection, hyper-independence, and the power of vulnerability, as the two friends share stories of their past, the defining moments that shaped them, and how their perspectives on life have evolved over the years.Aleks opens up about her journey with motherhood, marriage, and the importance of allowing oneself to feel deeply, even if it means facing uncomfortable truths. Valeria shares her own experiences of contemplating the "what ifs" in life, questioning the different paths she could have taken, and the realization that some choices were necessary for her growth. They explore how childhood experiences and societal expectations have influenced their definitions of love, success, and identity, and how they’re striving to create a more authentic and fulfilling life.Follow Aleks on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aleksmalkin/ Mentioned: Byron Katie’s The Work: https://thework.com/ Awareness by Anthony DeMello https://a.co/d/gfyPX0Q Chloe Macintosh: https://www.instagram.com/chloe_macintosh/ Inside Out 2: https://www.disneyplus.com/movies/inside-out-2/6MeZYf9JkFii Shop my look from this episode: https://liketk.it/4JhPf What We Talked About:Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices