The Stories We Carry — Judgment, Self-Worth, and the Practice of Letting Go
Podcast Recap: Do You Feel Heard? – Episode 32
Hosts: Ian Mychal & Derrick Jones
Theme: How judgment shapes our self-image, why we cling to old stories, and how to find freedom in letting go
Why do we hold on so tightly to the stories that hurt us?
Why is it easier to believe judgment—our own or others’—than compassion?
In Episode 32 of Do You Feel Heard?, Ian and Derrick wrestle with these questions in a candid, reflective dialogue about self-worth, growth, and the courage it takes to drop old narratives.
Judgment as a Mirror
Judgment, the hosts explain, is rarely about truth. It’s about fear, shame, or the need to control. When we judge ourselves, we’re often repeating voices we inherited—parents, teachers, culture—rather than speaking from our own core.
“The loudest judgments usually aren’t even ours. They’re echoes of someone else.” – Ian
The Weight of Old Stories
Derrick notes how often we mistake stories for identity.
- “I’m the one who always messes up.”
- “I’m not creative.”
- “I’m too much / not enough.”
These stories feel permanent, but they’re just repeated thoughts. Naming them as stories—rather than facts—creates space to release them.
“You’re not the story. You’re the storyteller. And you can tell something new.” – Derrick
The Practice of Letting Go
Letting go isn’t a one-time act—it’s a practice.
- Noticing when the judgment arises.
- Pausing instead of spiraling.
- Choosing a different response.
Ian compares it to meditation: “The work isn’t never having thoughts. The work is noticing when you’ve gotten lost in them and returning.”
Favorite Quotes from Episode 32
- “Judgment is fear in costume.”
- “Most of the voices in your head aren’t even yours.”
- “You are not your story—you are the storyteller.”
- “Growth is remembering to return, again and again.”
- “Letting go isn’t losing—it’s gaining freedom.”
Listen to the Full Episode
This episode is for anyone who’s:
- Struggling with self-judgment
- Tired of carrying old stories that no longer fit
- Learning to separate self-worth from mistakes
- Curious about practical ways to “let go”
Final Reflection
We all carry stories. Some are useful; many are heavy.
The invitation is not to erase them but to loosen our grip.
To see judgment for what it is.
To remember we are not the voice in our head.
To choose, moment by moment, to tell a new story.
That’s where freedom begins.