BAM - Bad Ass Moms

Shawnta Hooks discusses her journey from a corporate career in financial services to becoming a mindfulness advocate and entrepreneur. She emphasizes the importance of mindfulness in leadership, stress management, and personal growth. Shawnta shares practical tips for integrating mindfulness into daily life, the significance of presence in parenting, and how to cultivate a mindful workplace culture. The discussion also touches on the challenges of navigating disruption and the need for self-care in today's overstimulated world. Contact https://www.shawntahooks.com/ Support the show Thanks for listening! *Follow us on Instagram *Subscribe to our channel on YouTube Keep being you and keep being Bad Ass! www.bampod.com

In this engaging conversation, Madeleine Pollak shares her journey from the media industry to executive coaching, emphasizing the importance of storytelling, collaboration, and personal growth. She discusses the challenges of balancing motherhood with a demanding career, the emotional toll of documentary production, and the significance of addressing bullying in children. As an empty nester, Madeleine reflects on the transition to this new phase of life, the power of coaching in the workplace, and the joy of pursuing new hobbies and passions. Her insights offer valuable advice for parents and professionals alike. Contact https://pollakproductionsconsulting.com/ Support the show Thanks for listening! *Follow us on Instagram *Subscribe to our channel on YouTube Keep being you and keep being Bad Ass! www.bampod.com

In this inspiring conversation, Lara Merriken — founder of LÄRABAR and current CEO of Anthur — opens up about her remarkable journey from a self-proclaimed junk food-loving teenager to a mission-driven entrepreneur. She shares the challenges and triumphs of building LÄRABAR, the role of community and connection in her success, and how motherhood reshaped her perspective. Lara also explores the importance of self-care, authenticity, and curiosity — emphasizing how asking the right questions can lead to powerful personal growth. Now, through her new company, Anthur, she continues her mission to elevate human flourishing and inspire others to live with purpose and joy. Contact: www.antherglobal.com Support the show Thanks for listening! *Follow us on Instagram *Subscribe to our channel on YouTube Keep being you and keep being Bad Ass! www.bampod.com

In this episode, Lori and Jenny sit down with Princess Castleberry, a leadership strategist, global speaker, and mom of two. Princess shares her path from a 22-year career in corporate risk management to launching her own business and stepping onto the TEDx stage. She opens up about breaking “bad agreements,” navigating motherhood, co-parenting, divorce, and postpartum struggles—and how her mother’s resilience inspired her along the way. Princess also gives us a sneak peek into her upcoming book, The Truth Is in the Trigger, and introduces her “A game” framework for turning life’s toughest triggers into fuel for resilience, leadership, and growth. Connect www.princesscastleberry.com Support the show Thanks for listening! *Follow us on Instagram *Subscribe to our channel on YouTube Keep being you and keep being Bad Ass! www.bampod.com

In this episode of The BAM with Lori and Jenny, the hosts reconnect after summer to share travel stories, personal updates, and reflections. Jenny talks about upcoming plans to visit the Dolomites in Italy, while Lori kicked off the season with a special trip to Japan and South Korea tied to her stepson’s adoption. They discuss using AI tools to plan travel and improve work efficiency, balancing busy schedules with fitness routines, and overcoming injuries. The conversation also touches on the “back-to-school” feeling as a time for renewal and how people perceive and process the world differently. They also share quirky and fun experiences like donkey races in Leadville and “tooling” around unfamiliar neighborhoods, plus summer highlights such as hockey tournaments and family time. Wrapping up, they reflect on both the freedoms and small annoyances of summer versus the structure of the school year, laugh over lighthearted family moments, and look forward to welcoming exciting guests in future episodes. Support the show Thanks for listening! *Follow us on Instagram *Subscribe to our channel on YouTube Keep being you and keep being Bad Ass! www.bampod.com

Meet Amy Wolff! A conversation filled with heart, hope, and humanity. Amy opens up about how yard signs with a simple message of encouragement sparked a worldwide movement of connection. She shares how her deep-rooted sense of unconditional love from her own upbringing influences her parenting, and why she believes ordinary people can create extraordinary change. We talk about the profound loss of her brother at age 14, and how that tragedy shaped her worldview and deepened her empathy. Whether you’re a parent, a dreamer, or just someone trying to stay present in a distracted world — this episode will inspire you to keep your eyes open and your heart tender. Connect www.amynwolff.com www.dontgiveupsigns.com Support the show Thanks for listening! *Follow us on Instagram *Subscribe to our channel on YouTube Keep being you and keep being Bad Ass! www.bampod.com

Meet Amy Stark, a former science teacher whose journey into energy healing began with meditation and a growing awareness of her intuitive gifts—such as sensing the physical pain of others. In her new book, Bridging the Divide, Amy explores the powerful intersection of science and spirituality, offering insights into how energy healing can help people reconnect with their inner light. She shares how she scientifically validated her abilities in a laboratory—changing the pH of water, influencing energy fields, and even working with NASA-grade diagnostic tools—demonstrating that energy work can have measurable effects. Amy also introduces Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT), a tapping method that rewires the brain and nervous system by releasing trauma and emotional blocks. She explains how our early life experiences shape the way we see the world, and how techniques like EFT can help us reframe those beliefs and move forward with clarity and confidence. Alongside her healing work, Amy opens up about life as a gay mom raising her son, and her experiences as a psychic medium. From receiving messages from those who have passed to being guided by both science and spirit, Amy’s story is one of transformation, empowerment, and deep healing. Connect With Amy Support the show Thanks for listening! *Follow us on Instagram *Subscribe to our channel on YouTube Keep being you and keep being Bad Ass! www.bampod.com

In this episode, Cindy Gunderson shares her journey as an author, discussing her experiences writing across multiple genres, the importance of self-narration, and the impact of AI on the writing process. She reflects on her family life, the challenges of balancing writing with motherhood, and the lessons learned from her son's struggles with addiction. Cindy emphasizes the power of storytelling to foster empathy and connection, and she shares her excitement for upcoming projects, including a Kickstarter for her fantasy romance series. Website https://cindygundersonaudio.com/ Support the show Thanks for listening! *Follow us on Instagram *Subscribe to our channel on YouTube Keep being you and keep being Bad Ass! www.bampod.com

Meet Lauren Wingate — storm chaser, mom, and aspiring psychedelic therapist — to explore her incredible journey. Lauren opens up about her struggles with postpartum depression, how storm chasing became an unexpected path to healing, and her newfound passion for psychedelic therapy. She shares her experiences with ketamine treatments, the science behind how these therapies work, and her studies to become a licensed facilitator using natural medicines like psilocybin. This powerful conversation dives into mental health, adrenaline-fueled adventures, and the transformative ways we can reclaim our sense of self. Tune in for an inspiring story of resilience, growth, and the pursuit of healing. Support the show Thanks for listening! *Follow us on Instagram *Subscribe to our channel on YouTube Keep being you and keep being Bad Ass! www.bampod.com

Cynthia Dvorak joins to discuss her initiative, Screen Less Play More, aimed at reducing children's screen time and promoting real-world engagement. Cynthia shares her background in the entertainment industry, including nearly 20 years at Access Hollywood, and how reaching out to mentors shaped her career. The conversation dives into strategies for managing children's screen time, especially for neurodivergent kids, and offers advice on setting gradual, consistent boundaries. Cynthia shares her family's approach, including no screens during the week and limited time on weekends, encouraging creativity and outdoor play. The discussion also covers age-appropriate screen time recommendations and the importance of providing alternative activities to foster healthier habits. Cynthia Dvorak offers practical and relatable insights on managing children's screen time in today's digital age. Whether you're a parent struggling with screen time battles or just looking for advice on fostering creativity and real-world engagement, Cynthia's approach provides actionable tips. Contact https://screenlessplaymore.com/ Support the show Thanks for listening! *Follow us on Instagram *Subscribe to our channel on YouTube Keep being you and keep being Bad Ass! www.bampod.com

Meet Haylee Romrell, a nurse and mother of three, sharing her inspiring journey through life, career, and personal growth. Growing up in Salt Lake City, Haylee developed a deep love for the outdoors, which shaped her adventurous spirit. After studying anthropology and global health in Hawaii, she transitioned into nursing, inspired by a chance encounter with a wilderness nurse. Her nursing career has included neurotrauma, pediatrics, oncology, and end-of-life care, roles that deeply influenced her perspective on the beauty and complexity of the human experience. Currently, Haylee works as a private duty school nurse, supporting a child with unique medical needs, a position she values for its meaningful, personal connections. Haylee also emphasizes the importance of self-care, which she learned to prioritize after overcoming postpartum depression during the pandemic. Through hiking, nature, and mindfulness, she rediscovered her vitality and pursued personal goals. Balancing family, career, and personal passions, Haylee inspires others to seek joy, prioritize their well-being, and embrace life’s adventures, big and small. Support the show Thanks for listening! *Follow us on Instagram *Subscribe to our channel on YouTube Keep being you and keep being Bad Ass! www.bampod.com

Meet Laura Bonnell! Laura shares her inspiring journey as a mother to two daughters with cystic fibrosis (CF) and her evolution into a passionate advocate for the CF community. Drawing from her own family’s experiences, Laura founded a nonprofit to provide resources and financial assistance to families affected by CF, as well as a podcast that amplifies diverse voices in the fight against the disease. She reflects on the challenges of caregiving while balancing a demanding career in the news industry, systemic frustrations with health insurance, and the emotional toll of raising children with CF. The conversation explores late diagnoses, disparities in healthcare, the transformative impact of medications like Trikafta, and the complexities of treatments such as lung transplants. Laura’s candid stories and her drive to empower others highlight the resilience, hope, and advocacy that define her mission to make a difference. Contact https://thebonnellfoundation.org Tik Tok: @thebonnellfoundation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bonnellfoundation/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxPDZTZt3hBuyomkxLFttNw Support the show Thanks for listening! *Follow us on Instagram *Subscribe to our channel on YouTube Keep being you and keep being Bad Ass! www.bampod.com

Welcome to the first episode of 2025! In this lively and heartfelt conversation, Lori and Jenny reflect on the highs and lessons of 2024 while sharing their excitement for the year ahead. Jenny recounts her adventurous trip to Costa Rica, which took an unexpected turn when a rope swing mishap led to a dislocated and broken finger. Despite the injury, she kept her spirits high, offering a humorous and inspiring look at adapting to life's surprises. The hosts also dive into their family traditions over the holidays, from skiing adventures to cherished moments with loved ones. They share exciting travel plans for 2025, including Lori’s upcoming trips to Belize, Tokyo, and Korea, and Jenny’s visit to Alaska. With a focus on growth and resilience, the duo discusses embracing new challenges, hobbies like dance and photography, and their goals for the podcast: highlighting inspiring women and sharing impactful stories. Tune in for an episode full of humor, heart, and motivation as Lori and Jenny kick off the new year with purpose! Support the show Thanks for listening! *Follow us on Instagram *Subscribe to our channel on YouTube Keep being you and keep being Bad Ass! www.bampod.com

Meet Rachel Hagen! In this episode, we dive into the inspiring story of Rachel, the founder of Noted & Company, a business dedicated to reviving the art of handwritten communication. Rachel shares how her passion for tangible, meaningful connections led her to create a line of luxury stationery that stands out in a digital age. She reflects on the emotional and professional significance of handwritten notes. Rachel highlights the enduring value of physical keepsakes like recipe cards, letters, and personal notes. The conversation explores Rachel's entrepreneurial journey, starting with a subscription service aimed at teaching children the lost art of letter writing. She candidly discusses the challenges she faced, from coordinating designs with multiple artists to finding her footing as a business owner. Over time, Rachel shifted her focus, moving beyond children’s products to create elegant stationery for a wider audience. Her product line now includes boxed card sets, quick-note "snippets," and curated holiday gift sets, all distinguished by their luxurious paper quality and intentional design. Throughout the episode, Rachel reflects on the evolving nature of her business and her mission to make handwritten communication simple and accessible. She emphasizes that meaningful connections don’t require lengthy letters—sometimes a single heartfelt sentence is enough. Drawing parallels to other industries, she describes the process of refining her offerings based on customer feedback and adapting her vision to better serve her audience. This episode is a heartfelt exploration of how Rachel is breathing new life into handwritten communication, reminding us all of the power of tangible, meaningful connections in today’s fast-paced, digital world. Contact https://notedandcompany.com/ Instagram: notedandcompany Support the show Thanks for listening! *Follow us on Instagram *Subscribe to our channel on YouTube Keep being you and keep being Bad Ass! www.bampod.com

Meet Katie Stoddard, a mom of three and a successful business owner. Katie shares her inspiring journey, from starting as a middle school teacher to transitioning into publishing, marketing, and eventually launching her own business. She opens up about the challenges of balancing a demanding career with motherhood, the pivotal moment that led her to take the leap into entrepreneurship, and how she’s navigated it all with grace and determination. Tune in for an honest and empowering conversation about resilience, growth, and chasing your dreams. Contact www.ed2market.com www.ed2grow.com Support the show Thanks for listening! *Follow us on Instagram *Subscribe to our channel on YouTube Keep being you and keep being Bad Ass! www.bampod.com

Hosts Lori and Jenny opt for a relaxed, personal conversation, sharing insights into their lives, goals, and the concept of “Misogi.” They introduce Misogi, a Japanese idea of setting one memorable, meaningful goal each year to create lasting life highlights. Both hosts reflect on the past year’s experiences, such as Jenny’s trip to New Mexico, where she embraced spontaneity by saying “yes” to new opportunities, underscoring the power of simple, yet impactful experiences. They discuss goal setting and the value of making incremental, attainable goals that build momentum, referencing the advice of author John Acuff on the importance of “easy wins.” Jenny shares her past experiences with marathon training, where small, consistent efforts built up to the bigger accomplishment. This approach leads to a discussion on focusing on what truly matters daily, appreciating small moments, and how these cumulative experiences often create more profound memories than big, single achievements. The episode ends with Lori contemplating her upcoming goals, expressing her desire to improve her photography skills, especially in capturing dynamic sports photos. The hosts encourage listeners to embrace personal growth through goals that are both achievable and fulfilling. Support the show Thanks for listening! *Follow us on Instagram *Subscribe to our channel on YouTube Keep being you and keep being Bad Ass! www.bampod.com

Meet Heather Cracraft! Heather is an the assistant to the athletic director at the University of Colorado Boulder, a role she has held for the past 6 years. She is a passionate sports fan who bleeds the black and gold of CU, having been a student there herself. Heather has faced significant personal challenges in recent years, including losing her home in the 2021 Marshall Fire in Boulder County and the sudden passing of her partner. Despite these tragedies, Heather has maintained a positive outlook, focusing on the connections with family and friends that have helped her through difficult times. In addition to her work at CU, Heather is running for a position on the Board of Trustees in the town of Superior, Colorado, where she lives. Overall, Heather's story is one of resilience, positivity, and a deep appreciation for the present moment. Her passion for sports, her commitment to supporting young athletes, and her desire to make a difference in her community are all inspiring and make her a remarkable individual. Support the show Thanks for listening! *Follow us on Instagram *Subscribe to our channel on YouTube Keep being you and keep being Bad Ass! www.bampod.com

Meet Andrea Vahl! Andrea is a former engineer who transitioned into social media marketing and then comedy. She started an in-home wine tasting business and used social media to promote it, which led to her writing a book on Facebook marketing. Andrea then started doing stand-up comedy on the side, using Facebook and Instagram ads to market her shows. Earlier this year, she quit her marketing business to pursue comedy full-time, creating a show called "Mom's Unhinged" featuring all-female mom comedians. The "Mom's Unhinged" show has been growing rapidly, with Andrea and her team booking over 50 comedians and traveling to different cities to perform. Andrea sees the show as a way to give a platform to underrepresented voices in comedy and provide a supportive community for moms. She is proud of her two sons and the example she has set for them by pursuing her passions and not being afraid to take risks. Looking ahead, Andrea is excited to see how the "Mom's Unhinged" show continues to grow and develop. Contact https://momsunhinged.com/ Support the show Thanks for listening! *Follow us on Instagram *Subscribe to our channel on YouTube Keep being you and keep being Bad Ass! www.bampod.com

This episode features a candid conversation between Jenny and Lori, two friends and co-hosts, as they discuss the challenges and joys of their current life stages. Jenny shares her experience of becoming an empty nester, describing the bittersweet feelings of this transition and the need to grieve the end of a chapter. Lori, still in the thick of parenting, discusses the emotional ups and downs of her children's growth, including her younger son's newfound self-awareness and her older son's struggles with independence. The conversation also touches on the challenges of balancing work, family, and personal time. Jenny shares her experience of running her own HR consulting business, which she started with a former colleague, and the importance of supporting small and medium-sized businesses with people-focused solutions. Lori discusses her recent transition to a new full-time job in the health and wellness industry, while also maintaining her entrepreneurial ventures and passion projects. Both women express excitement for upcoming travel plans, with Jenny looking forward to a trip to the Albuquerque Balloon Festival and Lori planning a big Asia trip for the summer. They also share their enthusiasm for the future, with a focus on nurturing new friendships, exploring personal growth opportunities, and continuing to support each other through the ever-evolving stages of life. Contact https://www.risehumanresources.com/about-us Support the show Thanks for listening! *Follow us on Instagram *Subscribe to our channel on YouTube Keep being you and keep being Bad Ass! www.bampod.com

Meet Renee Good! She is a nurse practitioner who recently opened her own practice, Good Integrative Healthcare, which specializes in hormone health, medical weight loss, and sexual function. She previously worked in various nursing roles, including family practice, the ER during COVID, and as a nurse practitioner in primary care, but found that she wanted to be more proactive in her patients' health. Renee also has a background in real estate, which she says helped her develop important people skills that have translated to her medical practice. Renee is passionate about helping women and men with hormone-related issues. She emphasizes the importance of taking a holistic approach and finding the optimal hormone levels for each individual, rather than just relying on "normal" lab ranges. In addition to running her practice, Renee is also a grandmother and has four adult children of her own. She reflects on the challenges of balancing her career and family responsibilities, including the "mom guilt" she felt when going back to school to become a nurse. However, she is proud of the "four good humans" she and her husband have raised. Finally, Renee discusses the joys and challenges of being an entrepreneur, noting that while she loves the work, the business side of running a practice can be daunting at times. She credits her husband's support and her own self-awareness in helping her navigate these challenges. Contact https://goodintegrativehealthcare.com/about/ Support the show Thanks for listening! *Follow us on Instagram *Subscribe to our channel on YouTube Keep being you and keep being Bad Ass! www.bampod.com