Life Conversations With A Twist podcast

54:33

“You are a worthy human being. It doesn't matter what you have. It doesn't matter who you are. It doesn't matter who's in your life; you absolutely matter, and you are worth doing it.” —Stefanie Lauren Ever feel like you're juggling a million dreams but can't quite catch them? What if your scattered interests were actually your superpower? Imagine turning your curiosity into a roadmap for an extraordinary life. Stefanie Lauren is an entrepreneur and host of the Broken & Enough podcast. With over 20 years of corporate experience in retail and sports industries, she specializes in business consulting, mental health advocacy, and personal development coaching. Stefanie loves to share real-life insights from her journey of personal growth and business exploration to help others realize their potential. Tune in as Heather and Stefanie get real about overcoming self-doubt, managing life's crazy energy, and finding joy in your own unique path. Connect with Heather: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Episode Highlights: 03:01 Stefanie’s Journey: Lifestyle and Passions 08:47 Mental Health Journey 16:07 Tips for Balancing Energy and Priorities 39:00 Advice for Personal Growth 47:15 Supporting Businesses That Care for Their Clients 51:24 The Broken & Enough Podcast Connect with Stefanie: Stefanie Lauren is a multi-passionate entrepreneur and podcaster. She hosts the "Broken and Enough" podcast, which focuses on changing perspectives and personal growth. With over 20 years of experience in corporate settings, particularly in retail and sports industries, Stefanie is passionate about business consulting and supporting entrepreneurs. She specializes in embodiment work, mental health advocacy, and helping individuals develop healthier mindsets. Currently exploring virtual assistance and business coaching, Stefanie is dedicated to empowering others to find their authentic path and overcome personal challenges. Instagram Podcast Support the show…

Life Conversations with a Twist

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The COO's Guide to Business Domination: Strategies for Scaling Smart with Melissa Franks 38:22

12 days ago38:22

38:22

“Every day, you get to make a choice about what you are opting into. You can always make a different choice tomorrow. You can always make a different choice today.” —Melissa Franks Ever feel like your business is a puzzle with missing pieces? What if you had a secret weapon who could help you connect those dots and turn your entrepreneurial vision into a thriving reality? The magic happens when strategic insight meets practical execution—and that's where a game-changing operational expert becomes your business's best friend. Melissa Franks is a seasoned Chief Operating Officer with over 25 years of corporate experience, specializing in scaling businesses and empowering female entrepreneurs. As the founder of On Call COO and host of the "Opt In" podcast, she brings a wealth of strategic insights and operational expertise to growing businesses. Tune in as Heather and Melissa reveal insider strategies for business growth, overcoming professional obstacles, mastering networking, pricing your expertise, building a consulting business, and leveraging the transformative power of fractional executive support to supercharge your business potential. Connect with Heather: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Episode Highlights: 01:29 Meet Melissa: Balancing Multiple Roles 03:32 Hitting a Career Ceiling and Starting a New Business 10:08 The Value of Curiosity and Continuous Learning 13:03 Building a Clientele and Solid Business Model 20:48 Challenges and Strategies in Business Consulting 26:24 Networking and Building Connections 29:27 “Opt In”: Creating Content for Busy Professionals Connect with Melissa: Melissa Franks is a seasoned Chief Operating Officer (COO) and business strategist with over 25 years of corporate experience. As the founder of On Call CEO, she provides fractional executive support to growing businesses, specializing in helping female entrepreneurs scale and optimize their operations. With a background in technology and financial services, Melissa has guided businesses from $50 million to $350 million in revenue. Her expertise lies in strategic planning, team development, and creating scalable business structures. A single mother based in Northern California, Melissa is also the host of the "Opt In" podcast, where she shares actionable business insights and strategies for entrepreneurs. Her mission is to empower business leaders by providing expert guidance, operational excellence, and strategic support tailored to each organization's unique needs. Website LinkedIn Instagram YouTube Support the show…

Life Conversations with a Twist

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Risk-Taking 101: Unexpected Ways to Crush Your Comfort Zone with Tara Polley 41:27

19 days ago41:27

41:27

"Know your value. Don't ask for permission to take up space. Just get out there and start doing things. We have one life, and we don't get to go bac,k and we have no do-overs. It doesn't matter if people are judging you. The people that are judging you are normally sitting on their couch not doing anything, but judging you. And so if you're out there doing the thing they're judging, you're already winning." —Tara Polley One word is all it takes— “Yes.” When you choose "yes," you're not just agreeing to an opportunity; you're declaring war on your comfort zone and challenging the status quo of your own limitations. Each "yes" is a stepping stone to a version of yourself you've only imagined in quiet moments of potential. It's the bridge between who you are and who you're meant to become. Saying “yes” to American Dream TV, Tara Polley transformed a moment of personal terror into a national platform for storytelling, community connection, and personal reinvention. By embracing the discomfort of being on camera, she unlocked a journey that expanded her professional horizons, allowed her to showcase local businesses and community stories, and discover a powerful voice she never knew she possessed. Tune in as Heather and Tara dive deep into the importance of going out of our comfort zone, real estate insights, social media strategies, overcoming fear, community connection, storytelling as a marketing tool, embracing authenticity, taking professional risks, and navigating life's unexpected journeys through resilience and intentional "yes" moments. Connect with Heather: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Episode Highlights: 02:41 Meet Tara: Challenges and Growth in Real Estate 05:17 Reality TV and Its Impact on Real Estate Career 12:55 Client Relationships and Community Envolvement 16:59 Content Creation for Different Social Media Platforms 32:04 Overcoming Fear and Taking Risks to Grow 36:31 The Power of Knowing Your Own Value Connect with Tara: Tara Polley brings over 25 years of experience to the real estate industry, specializing in all facets of residential real estate, subdivision development, housing crisis counseling, and luxury properties, including wineries and bed & breakfast establishments. She is dually licensed as a Real Estate Broker in North Carolina as well as a Realtor Associate in California, and specializes in the Raleigh Triangle in addition to Sonoma Wine Country. Her expertise is further enhanced by her role as a host highlighting Sonoma County Wine Country on American Dream TV, an Emmy-nominated national lifestyle and real estate show that showcases properties, events, and local businesses. The show is widely syndicated on networks like HGTV and the Travel Channel and streams on platforms such as Apple TV, Roku, Amazon Prime, and Fire Video. Website LinkedIn Facebook Instagram YouTube Support the show…

Life Conversations with a Twist

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Passive Income Secrets: Turn Your Property into a Cash-Generating Machine with Madeleine Raiford-Holland 39:12

26 days ago39:12

39:12

"At the end of the day, you're only as good as the result that you're able to get people." —Madeleine Raiford-Holland The most successful entrepreneurs understand that money flows where creativity and strategic thinking intersect. In today's dynamic economic landscape, diversification isn't just a strategy— it’s transforming passive potential into active income. Madeleine Raiford-Holland is a dynamic entrepreneur who transitioned from corporate sales to building a multi-faceted business empire in short-term rentals and coaching. With a strategic approach to business and lifestyle design, she empowers entrepreneurs to reimagine their professional potential. Tune in as Heather and Madeleine talk about effective content creation, business scaling, retreat hosting, work-life balance, podcasting, multiple revenue streams, personal development, and the transformative power of strategic thinking and intentional living. Connect with Heather: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Episode Highlights: 01:37 Meet Madeleine 05:33 Building a Lifestyle Blog and Content Creation 12:26 Expanding the Business and Team Building 17:12 Client Acquisition and Funnel Building 24:23 Retreats Retreats 35:10 Balancing Business and Family Life Connect with Madeleine: Madeleine Raiford-Holland is a dynamic entrepreneur and business strategist who transitioned from government sales to building a successful short-term rental empire. As the co-founder of MHM Luxury Properties along with her husband, John, she manages 16 properties across Georgia, Tennessee, and Florida. Her coaching and consulting business helps aspiring entrepreneurs develop systems and strategies for creating financial freedom. A military wife and mother of two young boys, Madeleine is passionate about helping families design lifestyle businesses that provide time and location flexibility. She hosts the podcast "The Lux and the Short of It" and leads transformational retreats, focusing on mindset and entrepreneurial growth. With a background in scaling businesses and a commitment to multiple revenue streams, Madeleine empowers entrepreneurs to reimagine their professional and personal potential. Website LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Podcast Support the show…

Life Conversations with a Twist

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Learning Differently: Insider Secrets to Effective Special Education Support with Annalise Puentes and Bethany Deniz 39:19

5 weeks ago39:19

39:19

"It's not just about accessing education—parents want more than that for their kids. A lot of times, they want to know what can make their children thrive." —Bethany Deniz "There was just this big web, and we lost a year to two years with kids missing intervention. And what we know developmentally is that kids need it early, and they need it often." —Annalise Puentes Learning differences are not roadblocks but pathways to extraordinary understanding and growth. When we shift from seeing challenges as limitations to viewing them as opportunities, we unlock a child's true capacity for brilliance. Bethany Deniz and Annalise Puentes are school psychologists turned entrepreneurs who have dedicated their careers to transforming how families and educators approach learning differences. With over a decade of experience in public education and private practice, they specialize in comprehensive psychological assessments and empowerment strategies for children and families. Tune in as Heather, Annalise, and Bethany explore the transformative power of understanding learning differences, common special education challenges, the impact of technology on neurodivergent children, early intervention strategies, parental advocacy, and creating supportive educational environments that celebrate each child's unique cognitive profile. Connect with Heather: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Episode Highlights: 01:32 Bethany and Annalise: Forming a Business Partnership 07:42 Transitioning to Private Practice 12:41 Services Offered 16:30 Challenges in the Education System 26:39 The Impact of Tech on Children with ADHD 31:53 Advocating for Children with Disabilities 34:26 The Importance of Social Connectedness Connect with Annalise and Bethany: Annalise Puentes is a Licensed Educational Psychologist with a passion for empowering students, educators, and families. As a practicing Educational Psychologist in Sonoma County, her focus has been in psychoeducational assessments, behavior support, and staff training. She has worked with a wide range of students from preschool through age 22 in the public, non-public, and private school settings. Email: annalise@empoweredpsychservices.com Bethany Deniz is a Licensed Educational Psychologist dedicated to supporting the academic and emotional growth of students. Bethany has a breadth of experience in private, non-public, and public school settings, as well as private practice in assessing students with learning, developmental, and social-emotional disabilities. Her expertise is in identifying specific learning disabilities, consultations, and training with parents and staff. Email: bethany@empoweredpsychservices.com Connect with EmpowerED Educational Psychology Services: Website Instagram Support the show…

Life Conversations with a Twist

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Rethinking Talent: The Competitive Advantage of Neurodiversity in the Modern Workspace with Claudia Scott 28:59

6 weeks ago28:59

28:59

“It is so important to have the right education in the workplaces that will teach people that neurodiversity has shifted from being something that we see as a negative to how can the perspective of a neurodiverse worker help my company or benefit my team.” —Claudia Scott The future of work demands a radical reimagining of talent, where differences are not just accepted but celebrated as strategic advantages. By embracing different cognitive styles, organizations can tap into a wellspring of creativity, innovation, and problem-solving that traditional hiring practices overlook. Claudia Scott is a passionate advocate for neurodiversity and entrepreneurship, currently directing the micro loan crowdfunding platform at Startup Junkie . With a background rooted in international scholarship and personal experience with Tourette Syndrome, she brings a unique perspective to supporting diverse entrepreneurial journeys. Listen as Heather and Claudia explore the dynamic landscape of neurodiversity, entrepreneurship, personal empowerment, workplace adaptation, and the groundbreaking approaches that challenge traditional professional paradigms. Connect with Heather: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Episode Highlights: 02:25 Understanding Tourette Syndrome 05:50 Meet Claudia: The Journey with Tourette 12:59 Dealing with Stigma and Public Perception 16:36 Startup Junkie and Entrepreneurial Support 20:03 Challenges and Opportunities for Entrepreneurs 23:34 Advise for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 28:06 The Importance of Creating Spaces for Support Connect with Claudia: Claudia P. Scott joined the Startup Junkie team in February 2023 as the NWA Kiva Hub capital access manager (CAM) to assist entrepreneurs with the Kiva microloan program process. She is fluent in Spanish and English, and she brings her expertise in helping entrepreneurs and small business owners in the region. Scott most recently served as director of member engagement at the Greater Bentonville Area Chamber of Commerce. Prior to that, she served as a programs assistant for the Downtown Springdale Alliance and as a migrant recruiter and advocate for the Northwest Arkansas Education Service Cooperative. Scott holds a B.S. in Business Administration and Strategic Communication from the University of the Ozarks and an M.Ed. in Human Resources and Workforce Development from the University of Arkansas and is currently earning her doctorate in the same field of study as her master’s degree. LinkedIn Support the show…

Life Conversations with a Twist

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Unlock the Secrets to Thriving Through Perimenopause with Ali Zuur-Arnerich 35:47

7 weeks ago35:47

35:47

“People who are successful, whether on a health journey or in life, are not more motivated than the rest of us. They just have better habits.” —Ali Zuur-Arnerich Perimenopause and menopause are not just hormonal shifts— they are a profound transition that can redefine a woman's sense of self, power, and purpose. Therefore, when we embrace this transformative time as an opportunity to reclaim our vitality, the physical, emotional, and mental changes of midlife don't have to be a struggle anymore. Ali Zuur-Arnerich is a holistic health coach and expert in women's midlife wellness, guiding clients through the complexities of hormonal fluctuations with a personalized, integrative approach. Tune in as Heather and Ali dive deep into strategies for managing perimenopause symptoms, optimizing metabolic and nervous system health, and cultivating the mindset and habits to thrive through this pivotal life stage. Connect with Heather: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Episode Highlights: 01:35 Healing Arts 08:25 The Importance of Bio-Individuality 11:21 Strategies for Perimenopause 27:48 Tips for Improving Health 31:31 The Power of Retreats and Community Support Connect with Ali: Ali Zuur-Arnerich is a dedicated health enthusiast with a passion for well-being and holistic health. With a robust educational background and extensive practical experience, she has cultivated a diverse skill set in wellness disciplines. Ali's certifications include Functional and Therapeutic Breathwork Facilitation from Breath Body Therapy, Women's Functional Nutrition, Hormones, Perimenopause & Menopause Coaching from the Integrative Women's Health Institute, and Insulin Resistance Coaching and Nutritional Endocrinology from the Institute for Nutritional Endocrinology. She is also a Certified Birth Doula and Massage Therapist, with specialized training in Prenatal Massage. Ali continues to expand her knowledge as she works towards completing her certification from the Quantum Coaching Academy. Her dedication to education and her diverse expertise make her a well-rounded wellness professional committed to helping others achieve optimal health. Website Instagram Support the show…

Life Conversations with a Twist

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Elevate Your Events: Secrets the Pros Use to Wow Guests with Melanie Zelnick 33:05

8 weeks ago33:05

33:05

“There's going to be peak times where it's really busy, and then we're going to have down times where it's slow. And understanding what those cycles are and being comfortable with them makes it possible for anyone to stay in the industry, knowing that chaos is not always chaos.” —Melanie Zelnick It's a whole new ballgame out there! The events world is going through some wild changes these days, and event planners are having to get super creative and innovative to keep up with what clients and guests want. Melanie Zelnick is the owner of Glow Events , a boutique agency known for their custom, design-focused events. Melanie has been in the industry for over a decade, and she's seen it all. From weddings to corporate bashes, she knows how to throw the party of your dreams. This week, Heather sits with Melanie to get the scoop on her journey from event planner to business owner, how she builds an amazing team culture, her secrets to killer vendor partnerships, and the genius creative process behind Glow's jaw-dropping event designs. Connect with Heather: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Episode Highlights: 01:44 Journey to Business Ownership 04:04 Challenges and Growth During the Pandemic 13:57 Building a Strong Team Culture 19:37 Vendor Partnerships and Collaboration 30:45 What’s Next for Glow? Connect with Melanie: Melanie Zelnick is the owner and CEO of Glow Events , a women-owned & women-run boutique event agency with a focus on strategic design. Over the past 15+ years, Glow has produced hundreds of events in the U.S. and internationally for a wide range of clients from Fortune 500 companies to intimate social soirees, each with its own unique design. Prior to Glow, Melanie was with Access, a premier DMC, and also worked in events for a variety of start-ups and non-profits. Melanie’s work has been featured in international magazines, podcasts, and blogs, making Glow Events a sought-after planning agency. She holds a bachelor’s degree from the Marriott School of Business at Brigham Young University. Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Support the show…

Life Conversations with a Twist

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Embracing Vulnerability: Lessons from a Transformative Retreat with Marcy Bravo Tang 40:02

9 weeks ago40:02

40:02

“You need to ask for help… At the end of the day, you get resentful because you feel like people aren't there for you, but they don't know how to be there for you, because you're not clear on what you need.” —Marcy Bravo Tang A lot of people tend to write off the idea of retreats because they think it's all just a bunch of "woo-woo" nonsense. But the truth is, retreats have a remarkable power to unlock profound personal transformation. They offer a sacred space for us to finally confront those deep-seated wounds we've been suppressing for far too long. In a world that constantly demands we keep our emotions in check, the vulnerability found in these experiences can be the key to unleashing our true potential. Marcy Bravo Tang is a visionary healer, artist, and coach who has dedicated her life to empowering others through creative expression and somatic practices. This week, Marcy is back for another inspiring conversation to share her unique blend of wisdom and compassion that has made her a sought-after guide for those seeking to navigate life's most challenging transitions. Whether you're seeking to heal from grief, reclaim your intuition, or simply prioritize self-care, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration. Tune in as Heather Nelson and Marcy dive deep into the transformative power of retreats, the importance of emotional expression, the power of having a community support, and practical steps to nurture our well-being. Connect with Heather: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Episode Highlights: 02:07 A Chance Encounter Blossomed into a Powerful Friendship 07:16 From Retreat to Rebirth 15:00 A Transformative Path to Wholeness 25:00 Strategies for Maintaining Inner Alignment 30:10 The Importance of Being Ready 33:16 The Next Chapter 38:25 Many Ways to Heal, Many Willing to Help Resources: 🎙️Podcast Life Conversations with a Twist: The Power Behind a Women's Retreat with Marcy Bravo Tang Connect with Marcy: Marcy Bravo Tang is a dedicated transformational coach who helps individuals change their mindset and elevate their lives. With a blend of intuitive understanding and practical advice from her successful business and personal life, Marcy provides personalized coaching sessions tailored to each client's growth and confidence-building needs. She empowers her clients to face challenges, take control of their futures, and create lasting change for themselves and their families. Marcy's commitment to accountability and support enables clients to unlock their true potential and lead fulfilling lives. Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Support the show…

Life Conversations with a Twist

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The Night Stalker Victim Journey with Ellen Govan 1:02:22

10 weeks ago1:02:22

1:02:22

“Even though it was a terrible, traumatic thing to go through, life is wonderful.” —Ellen Govan Richard Ramirez, infamously dubbed the Night Stalker, was a notorious serial killer whose reign of terror gripped California between 1984 and 1985. Convicted of 13 murders along with numerous other violent crimes, he was sentenced to death in 1989. Ramirez's gruesome acts left an indelible mark on history, earning him a place among America's most feared criminals until his death in 2013, making him one of the most notorious criminals in American history. A victim of the Night Stalker, Ellen Govan has overcome immense trauma to live a life of purpose and service. She is a passionate advocate for survivors of violent crimes, sharing her own story to provide hope and support to others. Through her community involvement and personal writing, Ellen continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience and a commitment to making a positive impact. Tune in as Ellen recounts her harrowing experience of moving to San Francisco in 1984, the night of the attack, how she was able to escape the attack with the help of a heroic bystander, Bob Davis, the lasting trauma she faced, and the steps she has taken to overcome these challenges. Heather and Ellen also explore the power of human connection, the importance of community support, and Ellen's inspiring efforts to give back and help others who have experienced similar traumas. Connect with Heather: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Episode Highlights: 01:28 Chasing Big Dreams in the Big City 05:31 The Night of the Attack 11:38 Escape From the Night Stalker 17:46 Identifying the Night Stalker 26:03 Trying to Capture the Night Stalker 31:24 Moving Forward 43:31 Closure At Last 50:00 Trauma-Response 55:56 Finding Ways to Give Back Connect with Ellen: Ellen Govan is a survivor and advocate who has overcome significant challenges in her life. In 1984, she was the victim of an attack by the notorious serial killer Richard Ramirez, known as the "Night Stalker." Despite this traumatic experience, Ellen has gone on to live a fulfilling life, finding love, starting a family, and dedicating herself to helping others who have experienced trauma. Today, Ellen is actively involved in her community, participating in coastal cleanup efforts with the Mendocino Mermaids and sharing her personal stories through writing workshops. She is a passionate supporter of organizations that assist victims of violent crimes, using her own experiences to inspire and empower others. Ellen's resilience and commitment to making a positive impact serve as an inspiration to all who hear her story. Facebook Instagram Resources: Surviving Victims of Violent Crimes (James Alt) Website Facebook Mendocino Mermaids Facebook Instagram Writing Your Life— The Lifelong Learning Program at Santa Rosa Junior College email: Support the show…

Life Conversations with a Twist

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From Principal to Nutrition Coach with Katie Barr 52:43

11 weeks ago52:43

52:43

“Shaming them [kids] about their food choices is more detrimental than one piece of candy.” —Katie Barr The food we consume is more than just a sustenance— it's a reflection of our values, our culture, and our connection to the world around us. By mindfully choosing what we put on our plates, we have the power to nourish not only our bodies but also our communities and the planet. Hence, embracing a holistic approach to eating can unlock a world of vibrant health, sustainable living, and profound personal transformation. Katie Barr, a former high school principal, has embarked on a remarkable journey from the world of education to the realm of integrative nutrition. Drawing from her deep understanding of the human body and her unwavering passion for holistic wellness, Katie now dedicates her life to empowering others to harness the transformative power of food as medicine. Tune in as Heather and Katie delve into the profound impact of food on our physical, mental, and emotional well-being, offering practical insights and actionable strategies to nourish both body and soul. Connect with Heather: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Episode Highlights: 01:36 Meet Katie 11:09 Challenges and Benefits of Being an Educator 23:16 Nutrition and Lifestyle Tips 34:13 Foods Recommendations 44:49 Helpful Resources for Better Health 51:45 Empowerment and Connection Among Women Connect with Katie: Katie Barr is a holistic nutrition coach and chef with a passion for helping women achieve balance and wellness through food. After a 30-year career in education, including roles as a high school principal, Katie transitioned to focus on her love of nutrition and cooking. She is currently training as an Ayurvedic nutrition coach to deepen her understanding of how food can be used as medicine. Katie's business, More Than Meals, aims to support women in nourishing their bodies and minds through seasonal, plant-based cooking and lifestyle guidance. With a background in athletics as a student and a lifelong interest in the connection between food and health, Katie is dedicated to empowering others to make simple, sustainable changes for improved wellbeing. Website Instagram Facebook Support the show…

Life Conversations with a Twist

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Entrepreneurship a.k.a Being a Boss: Proven Strategies to Fearlessly Build Your Dream Business 43:37

12 weeks ago43:37

43:37

“As an entrepreneur, you feel like you need to know the exact plan. And honestly, you have to be okay with the unknown.” —Heather Nelson To walk the path of entrepreneurship is to redefine success on your own terms, to carve out a legacy that is uniquely yours, and to inspire others with the power of your resilience. For Heather Nelson, this entrepreneurial spirit has been the driving force behind her remarkable journey. After honing her skills in the hospitality and events industry, Heather made the bold decision to take the leap and start not one, but two thriving businesses of her own. To her, being a boss isn't just a career choice - it's a mindset of innovation, grit, and the courage to rewrite the rules, no matter the obstacles that stand in her way. Grab a cup of coffee and get ready, because Heather is spilling all the juicy details on what it really takes to be your own boss. Tune in as she dishes on her incredible career journey, the must-have strategies that keep her business thriving, and the real-talk advice she has for anyone looking to start their own gig. Heather is also sharing the fun (and sometimes scary!) lessons she's learned along the way. Connect with Heather: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Episode Highlights: 03:37 Career Journey and Network Building 08:00 Starting Set and Strike 12:36 Overcoming Business Challenges 25:00 Navigating the Unknown 38:37 Embracing Change 39:08 Balancing Personal and Professional Life Support the show…

Life Conversations with a Twist

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Education with Larkin O’Leary 44:56

13 weeks ago44:56

44:56

“We recognize that there's a problem. We are losing teachers every day, our funding, our budgets. We cannot rely solely on teachers to advocate for themselves. We need to be the community members who stand up and advocate for our teachers, advocate for our schools, and advocate for our kids. Our community relies on all of us to come together for the greater good.” —Larkin O’Leary Education has the power to shape the future, yet our current system often falls short of its transformative promise. Outdated practices and a lack of support for teachers and students are holding them back from reaching their full potential. It's time to completely rethink education and put inclusive, flexible, and student-focused approaches at the forefront. Larkin O’Leary is the founder of Common Ground Society and an advocate for inclusive education. Her personal journey of raising a child with Down syndrome has fueled her mission to create a more empowering and supportive world for individuals with diverse needs. Tune in as Heather and Larkin dive deep into the major issues plaguing our education system, the game-changing power of Universal Design for Learning, and the crucial role of community support for teachers and students. You won't want to miss this one! Connect with Heather: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Episode Highlights: 01:35 What is Common Ground Society? 06:29 The Universal Design for Learning 14:32 Challenges in the School System 17:34 Future of Education and Specialty Schools 26:46 The Impact of Trauma 27:30 Inclusion and Mindset Shift 42:25 Advocacy and Community Support Resources: Podcast Life Conversations With a Twist: My Why Behind Starting A Nonprofit with Larkin O'leary Support the show…

Life Conversations with a Twist

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When Venting Meets ReInventing: Tips for Effective Strategic Journaling with Samantha Hawley 32:58

14 weeks ago32:58

32:58

“We're afraid of what we might uncover, which stops people from journaling. Strategic journaling is tough. It's a brave thing to go beneath the surface level.” —Samantha Hawley Is your mind a cluttered attic of unfinished thoughts and unexpressed emotions? What if you could transform that mental chaos into a wellspring of clarity and purpose? Imagine having a secret weapon that turns your inner turmoil into a roadmap for personal growth and emotional freedom. Samantha Hawley is a journaling expert and podcast host who helps women navigate life's challenges through strategic writing techniques. As the creator of the Calm Mind Blueprint, she empowers others to process their emotions and find clarity through her unique five-step journaling method. Tune in as Heather and Samantha explore the power of journaling, overcoming self-sabotage, building emotional resilience, and transforming personal struggles into stepping stones for growth and self-discovery. Connect with Heather: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Episode Highlights: 01:33 Meet Samantha 07:23 Navigating Divorce 14:01 Entering Entrepreneurship and Podcasting 17:54 Journaling Methods and Resources 24:41 Tips for Effective Journaling Connect with Samantha Samantha Hawley is a distinguished Journal and Wellness Coach based in Batavia, New York, with over nine years of experience in the wellness industry. She specializes in guiding career-driven women through stress, anxiety, and overwhelming situations, empowering them to find their voice and achieve happiness through journal entries. Samantha is also a dedicated Health & Fitness Coach, helping individuals reach their fitness goals with tailored workout programs, meal plans, mindset shifts, and daily motivation. Samantha's extensive professional journey includes pivotal roles at General Electric, where she excelled in customer relationship management, market research, and business plan development. She holds an MBA from Union Graduate College and a BA in Business Administration from Elmira College. As the host of the popular podcast " Journal Entries ," Samantha shares her insights on integrating different aspects of life without feeling overwhelmed, offering practical strategies for self-discovery, boundary setting, and strategic decision-making. Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook Support the show…

Life Conversations with a Twist

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Retreats: Why Women's Retreats Are the New Happy Hour 25:07

15 weeks ago25:07