Imperfectly Honest

Could I, Would I, Donate a Kidney? A Living Donor’s Perspective

Imperfectly Honest — Fri, 03 Apr 2026 05:03:38 +0000

What if you knew that donating a kidney isn’t as extreme - or as impossible - as it sounds? In this episode, Elizabeth sits down with Liz Nelson for an honest, deeply personal conversation about her decision to do just that.

Liz shares her experience as a living kidney donor, offering a transparent look at what the kidney donation process actually involves — physically, emotionally, and logistically. Rather than positioning the decision as heroic or extraordinary, she aims to demystify organ donation and help others better understand what’s possible.

Together, they move beyond the initial question of “could I?” into the more personal reality of “would I?” — unpacking the motivations, misconceptions, and practical considerations that come with becoming a living organ donor.

As conversations around organ donation and transplant waitlists continue to grow, this episode offers a grounded, human perspective on generosity, agency, and informed choice.

This isn’t about pressure or persuasion. It’s about expanding awareness — and inviting a more open, curious look at what it really means to give.

Show Notes:

You can learn about the National Kidney Registry’s innovative voucher program at NKR.org. Visit the National Kidney Donation Organization for more general information about living kidney donation. Check out Kidney.org for a great resource on kidney health.
The documentary Liz mentioned is Confessions of a Good Samaritan, available on Netflix.
Sue Heilbronner’s blog post about kidney donation is where Liz’s journey began. You can see Sue's own post about Liz's decision here.
You can connect with Liz at www.essarynelson.com, or on LinkedIn.

Hear more Imperfectly Honest perspectives at www.imperfectlyhonest.com.

Would an AI Partner Be Better Than a Human? Exploring the Appeal of Love Without Risk

Imperfectly Honest — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 17:10:11 +0000

In this episode, Elizabeth sits down with Sheila Lamont to explore a timely and deeply personal question: Could AI partners supplement—or even replace—human romantic relationships?

As AI relationships and virtual partners become more sophisticated, technology offers a seductive promise: companionship without rejection, compromise, or heartbreak. An AI partner can provide attention, affirmation, and emotional support while eliminating many of the risks that come with human intimacy.

But what if the very things we try to avoid—uncertainty, vulnerability, and the act of choosing and being chosen—are actually essential to authentic, nourishing relationships?

Elizabeth and Sheila examine the growing rise of AI companionship, the psychological appeal of risk-free relationships, and what might be lost if technology begins to replace human connection. As artificial intelligence moves deeper into our personal lives, this episode invites listeners to reflect on the future of intimacy and ask an important question: What do we truly want from love and partnership?

Show Notes:

The article that inspired this conversation can be found in Psychology Today. If you haven’t already, we recommend you listen to Elizabeth and Sheila’s recent episode on “Default No." Hear more Imperfectly Honest perspectives at www.imperfectlyhonest.com.

Shifting From Default No | Rethinking Decision-Making and the Perceived Safety of Hyper-Focus

Imperfectly Honest — Wed, 04 Mar 2026 12:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Elizabeth reunites with Sheila Lamont to explore the subtle but powerful difference between living as a default “yes” and a default “no.” Early in her career, Elizabeth was a self-proclaimed default yes who embraced every opportunity… but over time, she shifted to a default no as she strived to be more focused and efficient. Recently, she’s begun to question whether that reflex has quietly limited her growth and opportunities for meaningful, unexpected connections.

Together, Elizabeth and Sheila unpack how past experiences shape the speed and certainty of our choices. Is your no protecting your peace – or preventing possibility? Is your yes rooted in joy – or people-pleasing?

This conversation invites a slower, more honest look at how you decide — and whether your default response still reflects the life you’re trying to build.

Show Notes:

Hear more Imperfectly Honest perspectives at www.imperfectlyhonest.com.

When “Good” Is – and Isn’t – “Good Enough”

Imperfectly Honest — Thu, 19 Feb 2026 15:57:12 +0000

In this episode, Elizabeth and Kayla wrestle with a deceptively simple question: when should we strive to be better – and when is it wiser to accept what is, even if it’s imperfect? They explore the double edge of perfectionism, the pressure to optimize every part of our lives, and the recognition that improvement doesn’t always change the outcome. They talk candidly about the reality that life isn’t always an equal playing field, the underdog doesn’t always win, and sometimes, no matter how much effort is invested, you might never be “good enough.” From career paths and leadership to body image, relationships, and self-compassion, Elizabeth and Kayla explore when to invest in potential and when to recognize limits. This isn’t about settling, and it’s not about striving endlessly either. It’s about knowing when to push, when to pause, and when to be HONEST. Show Notes: Hear more Imperfectly Honest perspectives at www.imperfectlyhonest.com.

Preventive Health | An Honest Conversation That Could Save Your Life

Imperfectly Honest — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Elizabeth sits down with Dr. Dennis Lipton, a board-certified internal medicine physician who practices preventative, deeply personalized care. Together, they talk honestly about what it actually means to take responsibility for your health – before something goes wrong.

They explore why early detection matters; how to think differently about tests, medications, and lifestyle changes; and why so many of us underestimate the power we have over our future health.

This is a conversation about curiosity over fear, information over avoidance, and finding balance between taking care of your body and still living your life, in full color.

Show Notes:

Learn more about Dr. Lipton’s practice at www.dennisliptonmd.com/.

Connect with Elizabeth’s Imperfectly Honest perspective at www.imperfectlyhonest.com.

Caregiving Without Losing Yourself: Boundaries, Burnout, and Self-Care

Imperfectly Honest — Tue, 13 Jan 2026 10:24:00 +0000

In this episode, Elizabeth sits down with her friend Heather Grahame to talk about caring for others – while caring for yourself. Setting boundaries and giving without giving too much of oneself is an imperfectly honest art to master. The rewards of caretaking can be immense, but they are not always immediate or obvious, and the juice isn’t always worth the squeeze.

If you're currently caring for someone, have done so in the past, or suspect that someday you may find yourself in that role, then this episode is for you. It's not about doing it perfectly; it's about learning how to be honest with the person you're taking care of and with yourself.

Connect with Elizabeth’s Imperfectly Honest perspective at www.imperfectlyhonest.com.

La Dolce Vita: Honest Reflections from an Italian Road Trip

Imperfectly Honest — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 16:45:53 +0000

In this episode, Elizabeth and Kayla share a conversation that is as winding as an Italian road trip! Back from a wine tour in Italy, Kayla shares her reflections, imperfectly honest moments, and sweet intention for the year ahead. As you listen, ask yourself what you’d like to invite more of in 2026—is there room for you to slow down and savor more of life’s pleasures?

Show Notes:

“La dolce vita” is an Italian phrase that translates as “the sweet life” and refers to living fully in the moment, slowing down to savor life’s pleasures rather than rushing or letting stress rule.

Learn more about the wine importer Kayla referenced at https://tanarowineimports.com/.

Connect with Elizabeth’s Imperfectly Honest perspective at www.imperfectlyhonest.com.

Imperfect Truths of the American Economy | The Evolution of Capitalism with Seth Levine

Imperfectly Honest — Thu, 11 Dec 2025 16:10:24 +0000

In this episode, Elizabeth sits down with Seth Levine, co-author of the new book Capital Evolution: The New American Economy. Seth explains how and why the American economy is changing and what the future could look like. Given the major realignment America is in, visible in our divided politics, fractured media, reshaped labor markets, and more, Seth shares his belief that businesses hold most of the power—and some responsibility—to shape the future. This thought-provoking episode, and book, is for anyone who buys things—which is EVERYONE.

Show Notes:

You can order your copy of Capital Evolution at TheCapitalEvolution.com.

And, in the spirit of dynamic capitalism and the holidays, consider ordering one for a friend, local school, or library through Seth and his co-author Elizabeth MacBride’s Worthy Books program.

For my listeners who prefer to shop local, check out Seth’s wife’s independent book store, Composition Shop, in Longmont, Colorado. Connect with Elizabeth’s Imperfectly Honest perspective at www.imperfectlyhonest.com.

Getting Honest About Boundaries: How to Set Them, Hold Them, and Stop Feeling Guilty

Imperfectly Honest — Fri, 28 Nov 2025 17:09:53 +0000

In this episode, Kayla sits in for Elizabeth and connects with Dr. Andrea Wick about boundaries: physical, emotional, and energetic. As a chiropractor, applied kinesiologist, and energy worker, Dr. Wick shares tips on how to set and maintain healthy boundaries, particularly as we head into the holiday season. Show Notes To learn more about Dr. Wick or schedule an appointment, please visit www.drandreawick.com, or follow her on Instagram @dr.andreawick. While the workshop mentioned in the episode has passed by the time of airing, Dr. Wick will host a virtual Energetic Boundaries course in 2026! Learn more about To Be Magnetic, the neural manifestation practice Kayla referenced, at www.tobemagnetic.com. Consider reading Boundary Boss by Terri Cole to go deeper. Connect with Elizabeth’s Imperfectly Honest perspective at www.imperfectlyhonest.com.

Preparing for Wildfires: Getting Honest About Climate Change and Imperfect Advocacy

Imperfectly Honest — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 12:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Elizabeth sits down with Lizzie Peyton, Director of Big Sky SNO (Sustainability Network Organization), to talk about wildfire preparedness, living with wildfire risk, and what it means to be an imperfect advocate for climate change.

If you or someone you love lives in an area prone to wildfires or natural disasters, this conversation offers practical steps for preparing your home, creating a safety plan, and reducing anxiety around fire season. Even if wildfire season feels far away, it’s never too early to understand your risks and build confidence through preparation.

Elizabeth and Lizzie also speak candidly about the emotional side of climate change––how to show up, take meaningful action, and make lifestyle choices that align with your values, without needing to be perfect. This is a grounded, compassionate conversation for anyone wanting to care for the planet while also caring for themselves.

Show Notes:

The Big Sky Sustainability Network Organization, or “SNO,” is making its mountain town more sustainable by focusing on waste reduction, resource protection, energy management, transportation solutions, sustainable education, tourism, and more. To learn more about Lizzie, get involved with Big Sky SNO, or discover resources to use in your own community, visit https://www.bigskysno.org/ or reach out directly at hello@bigskysno.org.

Connect with Elizabeth’s Imperfectly Honest perspective at www.imperfectlyhonest.com.