Conversations on the Rocks

Send us a text Geralyn Kelly is back and this time, we’re talking about working dogs - from the friendly therapy pups that bring joy to nursing home residents, to the highly trained service animals that transform the lives of their owners. Geralyn discusses the intricate differences between these specialized canines and the common misconceptions that often surround them. As we explore the rigorous training and certification processes required for true service and therapy dogs, you'll be amazed by the dedication and skill these remarkable animals possess. We also shed light on the growing problem of 'fake' service dogs and the heartbreaking consequences this abuse of the system has led to for those who genuinely rely on these working companions. This understanding will help us all appreciate the importance of respecting the roles of these dogs. You’ll learn to spot the difference between a working dog and a pet masquerading as one. By understanding the rights and responsibilities of these canine heroes, you'll be better equipped to respect their important roles and avoid inadvertently undermining their vital services. Join us as we celebrate the unsung heroes of the dog world and learn how we can all do our part to support them. About Geralyn: Geralyn Kelly has been working with dogs since 2002. She began in a daycare/kennel environment where she gained valuable firsthand knowledge about canine behavior. In 2004, after two years at the daycare/kennel Geralyn began her training career and has never looked back! She began training at a large corporate pet store chain where she learned everything from Ethology, the scientific study of animal behavior, to Learning Theory, understanding how dogs learn. The core of Geralyn’s belief is that to be a great dog trainer, you must know everything about them from their origins, background, and recent changes in breeds and how their minds work. To expand her education she has attended seminars, workshops, conferences and have met some of the greats like Ian Dunbar, Sophia Yin, Victoria Stillwell and Suzanne Hetts. After three years in the corporate world, Geralyn left the pet store chain to pursue a career with a private kennel. Here, she developed the entire training program for this kennel from the ground up where she trained Obedience, Agility and Flyball! In 2008 Geralyn relocated to Winston-Salem and spent four more years working for a corporate pet store chain as Store Trainer and Area Trainer where she not only held many classes in store, she trained numerous other trainers who have gone on to have successful training careers. During this assignment she trained dogs in Obedience and Rally. In December 2012, Geralyn decided she wanted to reach more animals and work more closely with their human handlers and rescue groups, so she opened her own training center, Elite Canine! Connect with Geralyn Web: https://elitecanine.net/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elitecaninetraining/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elitecaninews/ Support the show Interested in possibly being a guest on the show? Click the link to get started! https://forms.gle/V1yGLH9W9Ck2m4TP7 Let's Connect! Web Instagram Facebook TikTok

Send us a text In this episode, I'm chatting with author Lisa Gerardy about her upcoming memoir, "Chasing Normal." Together, we uncover her journey of courage and resilience as she bravely shares her childhood experiences of sexual abuse. This honest conversation reveals the strength it took to write and share her story with the world. We discuss Lisa's complex relationship with her mother, who, despite her love, couldn't protect her from the abuse. We explore the lasting impact of this trauma on Lisa's life and relationships and acknowledge the harmful societal stigmas and victim-blaming attitudes she's encountered. Her journey to break free from these patterns is both inspiring and empowering. Remarkably, Lisa used humor as a coping mechanism, a testament to the strength of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable trauma. "Chasing Normal" looks at one woman's extraordinary journey to reclaim her story and redefine her sense of normalcy. Join us as we explore the complexities of trauma, survival, and the incredible power of the human spirit. Lisa Gerardy is a proud member of the gig economy, teaching college writing at three universities online. When she is not trying to detect AI and correct apostrophe errors, she is sharing her cringe-worthy childhood with complete strangers online. Her soon-to-be-published memoir is called Chasing Normal: Finding Love After Surviving Physical and Emotional Abuse. Lisa lives in Phoenix with her long-suffering husband and cherishes visits from her son who lives too far away. She accepts love, slobber, and many bruises from her Great Danes in her spare time. https://lisagerardy.substack.com/ https://lisagerardywriter.com/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100004146033472 https://www.instagram.com/chasingnormal51/ Support the show Interested in possibly being a guest on the show? Click the link to get started! https://forms.gle/V1yGLH9W9Ck2m4TP7 Let's Connect! Web Instagram Facebook TikTok

Send us a text Caroline Downing shares her journey of navigating life in Washington, D.C., including her experiences with roommates, her whirlwind marriage and divorce, and the lessons she's learned along the way. Caroline's openness about the challenges she faced in her marriage and the aftermath of her divorce is both heartbreaking and empowering. She reflects on the societal pressures she felt to settle down, as well as the importance of being true to oneself and not compromising on what one deserves in a relationship. Caroline's story serves as a powerful reminder that sometimes the most difficult experiences can lead to the greatest personal growth. Throughout the conversation, Caroline's passion for Taylor Swift's music and her creative divorce photo shoot showcases her resilience and ability to find joy and self-expression even during difficult times. Our discussion of the potential impact of a Taylor Swift endorsement for Kamala Harris further highlights Caroline's engagement with current events and her willingness to use her voice to make a difference. Born and raised in DC, Caroline has always been drawn to storytelling—though the dream of becoming a documentary filmmaker faded when she realized it wasn't exactly lucrative. She's got a fun idea for a novel (or maybe a memoir) brewing. After earning her business degree from Catholic University and quitting what she once thought was her dream job, Caroline now finds herself working in HR for a well-known restaurant—though she's keeping the name under wraps for now. twitter/instagram/tiktok: @ thecarolove the website: https://thecarolove.com/ Support the Show. Interested in possibly being a guest on the show? Click the link to get started! https://forms.gle/V1yGLH9W9Ck2m4TP7 Let's Connect! Web Instagram Facebook TikTok

Send us a Text Message. This week, we dig into LGBTQ+ representation in media from the Gen Z perspective. I'm joined by guest Ariana "Ari" Mrdjenovich as we explore progress, challenges, and the future of inclusive storytelling. Ari, a 25-year-old Gen Z member, shares personal experiences and perspectives on the importance of diverse characters and relationships in TV, movies, and media. The conversation includes various examples, such as shows like Pose, Sense8, Schitt's Creek, and Bridgerton. It discusses the impact of positive and problematic tropes, highlighting the necessity for authentic LGBTQ+ characters that go beyond stereotypes. The discussion also addresses the pushback against increased representation and the significance of media reflecting the diversity within the LGBTQ+ community. Throughout the episode, insightful commentary is provided on the influence of representation in shaping societal attitudes and increasing visibility for marginalized groups. Support the Show. Interested in possibly being a guest on the show? Click the link to get started! https://forms.gle/V1yGLH9W9Ck2m4TP7 Let's Connect! Web Instagram Facebook TikTok

Send us a Text Message. In this episode, I chat with Brittany Winfield, a millennial social media manager and solopreneur hailing from the wilds of Vermont. Brittany gives us the lowdown on her journey from dabbling in social media as a teen to running the show at Winfield Creative Agency. What really makes Brittany stand out, besides her knack for hashtags, is her love for comedy and performance. When she's not managing social media, she's mixing up drinks as a bartender and strutting her stuff with the comedic burlesque troupe "Tits ‘n’ Bits." Brittany talks about the exhilarating experience of performing on stage, where she uses humor to connect with the audience and embrace her body. This unique gig has boosted her confidence and sharpened her skills as a public speaker, which she brings to her social media workshops and keynotes. During our conversation, Brittany and I discussed the importance of keeping it real in today’s digital world. She discusses using tools like speak-to-text to capture her authentic voice rather than striving for picture-perfect posts. We both agree that letting go of perfection and adding a dash of playfulness to social media can help entrepreneurs stand out and truly connect with their audience. About Brittany: Meet Brittany Winfield, social media manager and mentor, and owner of The Winfield Creative, a Vermont-based digital marketing agency. When she's not building her women and community-focused business, Brittany enjoys making people laugh while taking her clothes off as a performer at the Vermont Comedy Club. Support the Show. Interested in possibly being a guest on the show? Click the link to get started! https://forms.gle/V1yGLH9W9Ck2m4TP7 Let's Connect! Web Instagram Facebook TikTok

Send us a Text Message. This week’s episode offers a refreshingly candid and insightful look into the life of a young Zoomer (Gen Z), you get to meet and listen to my oldest daughter, Mackenzie, as she navigates the challenges and joys of living in the bustling city of Washington, D.C. Kristen Daukas, Mackenzie's mother and the host of the podcast, skillfully guides the conversation, exploring topics ranging from the financial realities of homeownership for Gen Z, to the social media-driven pressures of modern relationships and celebrations. Throughout the discussion, Mackenzie's perspective shines through as she shares her experiences with the demands of her career, the camaraderie of her close-knit group of friends, and the bittersweet feelings of leaving her hometown behind. Kristen's empathetic approach and genuine interest in understanding her daughter's generation create a warm and engaging dialogue, inviting listeners to gain a deeper appreciation for the unique perspectives and experiences of young adults today. The episode serves as a testament to the power of open and honest communication between generations and the importance of embracing the diverse paths that define the modern coming-of-age journey. By doing so, we can all gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for each generation's unique experiences and perspectives. Support the Show. Interested in possibly being a guest on the show? Click the link to get started! https://forms.gle/V1yGLH9W9Ck2m4TP7 Let's Connect! Web Instagram Facebook TikTok

Send us a Text Message. In this episode, I am so excited to welcome my longtime bestie and political confidante, Jennifer Filipowski, for a discussion about the current state of American politics. Having shared experiences over the past three decades, we dig into the political landscape, sharing our perspectives and concerns about the future. We discussed the recent Republican National Convention (one of us watched some of it, the other none of it). The conversation then shifts to the historic nomination of Kamala Harris as the Democratic vice presidential candidate, where we consider our hopes, fears, and reservations about a potential Harris presidency. Throughout the discussion, we address important topics such as the challenges of getting people engaged in politics, the crucial role of party involvement, and the implications of the Heritage Foundation's "Project 2025" plan. About Jennifer: Jennifer Filipowski is a dedicated community leader and former executive with a rich background in both corporate and volunteer sectors. Before retiring, Jennifer served as the Executive Vice President of marketing for a global technology company, where she honed her leadership and strategic skills. Her career achievements are marked by her ability to drive innovative marketing initiatives and foster significant growth within her organization. Since retiring, Jennifer has channeled her energy into volunteerism, particularly in the realms of politics and the arts. She currently serves as the Chair of her county Democratic Party and the Credentials Chair for the state Party. Her commitment to civic engagement is evident through her organization of extensive canvassing, phone banking, and postcard writing campaigns, reaching thousands of individuals. In addition to her political involvement, Jennifer is a partner at a local arts non-profit, producing events that not only celebrate the arts but also contribute to local economic development. Jennifer’s combined experience in corporate leadership and volunteer dedication makes her a dynamic and influential figure in her community, championing both political engagement and cultural enrichment. Support the Show. Interested in possibly being a guest on the show? Click the link to get started! https://forms.gle/V1yGLH9W9Ck2m4TP7 Let's Connect! Web Instagram Facebook TikTok

Send us a Text Message. This week, Blanca Cobb, an internationally recognized body language expert and psychologist, and I discussed the role of communication and body language in relationships. Blanca explained why people often struggle to express their emotions and how misinterpreting body language can lead to conflicts. The key points were emotional safety and open dialogue. We also discussed the differences in communication styles in multicultural relationships. Blanca introduced the "Oreo cookie approach" for difficult conversations, which involves starting and ending with positives and addressing the issue in the middle. We touched on the challenges of virtual communication and emphasized the importance of face-to-face interactions for serious discussions. Blanca shared details about her upcoming projects, including an online course to improve communication skills and prevent arguments and a concierge coaching service for on-demand relationship advice. She highlighted the importance of observing a partner's baseline behavior and asking non-threatening questions to understand their emotions. This episode offers practical tips and strategies for improving communication and building stronger relationships. About Blanca: Blanca Cobb is an internationally recognized body language expert who gives life advice for everything from family, relationships, and work. Think of a modern-day Dear Abby with a twist of Dr. Phil. Blanca has had 2000+ TV appearances such as the Steve Harvey Show, TODAY Show, Megyn Kelly TODAY, Dr. Oz, Dr. Drew, CNN, Face The Truth, and The Doctors to a name a few as well as been quoted in 100+ worldwide publications such as Cosmopolitan, Us Weekly, Elite Daily, Business Insider, Elle, Daily Mail. Blanca shares her expertise weekly on a CBS affiliate, WFMY News 2, in North Carolina. Additionally, Global Gurus has ranked Blanca in the Top 30 body language experts in the world. She is a graduate of UNC-Chapel Hill with B.A. in Psychology and a M.S. in Psychology from NC State University. Fun fact about Blanca: She created a national holiday, “National Body Language Day,” which is celebrated on the first Friday of every October. Connect with Blanca: Instagram: instagram.com/blancacobb Facebook: facebook.com/blancacobb YouTube: blancacobb-bodylanguageexpert Support the Show. Interested in possibly being a guest on the show? Click the link to get started! https://forms.gle/V1yGLH9W9Ck2m4TP7 Let's Connect! Web Instagram Facebook TikTok

Send us a Text Message. Highlighting the Gen X perspective, Blythe Alpern joins me this week with a wealth of experiences and insights. As the host of the Gen X Experience Podcast, her passion lies in creating a space for her generation to connect, commiserate, and reminisce about their midlife challenges. During the conversation, Blythe shares her journey towards prioritizing self-care in recent years. Faced with the grief of losing both parents and feeling burnt out, she realized the need to nurture her physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. She discusses the valuable lessons she learned about work-life balance and setting boundaries with clients. Despite the challenges, Blythe has found ways to enhance her well-being and care for herself. Starting the podcast and incorporating small changes like daily walks have made a significant impact. Her wisdom as a Gen Xer, gained from her experiences and her candidness about her self-care journey, will surely enlighten the audience. About Blythe: Blythe is a copywriter and the founder of Wordwoman Creative, where she creates strategic, creative websites, blog posts, email/newsletters, and 360° campaigns for beauty and lifestyle brands. When she isn't writing copy, she is working on her podcast, The GenX Experience, a place for GenXers to chat about navigating midlife, mixed with a bit of that 80s nostalgia. Before she founded her copywriting business, she worked in the agency world for various brands, including Coca-Cola, Ford, Lancome, Don Julio, and more. She also spent five years as a beauty and lifestyle blogger, where she cultivated her passion for indie beauty. When she's not working on her business or podcast, Blythe enjoys long walks, the occasional hike, spending time with her rescue pup Buster, reading, binging documentaries on cults, and checking out the newest restaurant, rooftop bar, or coffee shop in Atlanta. Connect with Blythe: Website: https://www.wordwomancreative.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blythealpern/ Podcast (Available on Spotify and Apple): https://open.spotify.com/show/4WlZPvc78LWah0V3QbJ4vq Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegenxexperiencepod/ Support the Show. Interested in possibly being a guest on the show? Click the link to get started! https://forms.gle/V1yGLH9W9Ck2m4TP7 Let's Connect! Web Instagram Facebook TikTok

Send us a Text Message. Geralyn Kelly has dedicated over two decades to helping dogs and their owners through positive reinforcement training. As the founder of Elite Canine, she strives to make training fun, rewarding, and stress-free for both dogs and their humans. Geralyn's passion for canine companionship is evident in everything she does. She approaches each training session as an opportunity to strengthen the bond between dog and owner through patience and understanding. Geralyn's training philosophy centers on clear communication rather than intimidation or fear. She takes the time to properly teach dogs what is expected through positive reinforcement rather than punishment. Geralyn believes every dog deserves to feel safe, secure, and confident. Her force-free methods have helped countless dogs who struggled with leash reactivity, separation anxiety, and other behavioral issues. Whether working with puppies or senior dogs, Geralyn's calm, encouraging presence puts pups at ease. After over two decades in the business, Geralyn remains dedicated to continuous education within the field. She strives to stay on top of new training techniques and research. Geralyn is also an advocate for humane treatment of all dogs. Her passion, expertise, and compassion shine through with every training session, cementing her reputation as one of the most respected dog trainers in the region. About Geralyn: Geralyn Kelly has been working with dogs since 2002. She began in a daycare/kennel environment where she gained valuable firsthand knowledge about canine behavior. In 2004, after two years at the daycare/kennel, Geralyn began her training career and has never looked back! She began training at a large corporate pet store chain, where she learned everything from ethics, the scientific study of animal behavior, to learning theory and how dogs learn. The core of Geralyn’s belief is that to be a great dog trainer; you must know everything about them from their origins, background, recent changes in breeds, and how their minds work. To expand her education, she has attended seminars, workshops, and conferences and met some greats like Ian Dunbar, Sophia Yin, Victoria Stillwell, and Suzanne Hetts. After three years in the corporate world, Geralyn left the pet store chain to pursue a career with a private kennel. She developed the entire training program for this kennel from the ground up, where she trained Obedience, Agility, and Flyball! In 2008, Geralyn relocated to Winston-Salem and spent four more years working for a corporate pet store chain as Store Trainer and Area Trainer, where she not only held many classes in the store but also trained numerous other trainers who have gone on to have successful training careers. During this assignment, she trained dogs in obedience and rallying. In December 2012, Geralyn decided to reach more animals and work more closely with their human handlers and rescue groups, so she opened her own training center, Elite Canine! Connect with Geralyn Web: https://elitecanine.net/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elitecaninetraining/ Instagram: https:// Support the Show. Interested in possibly being a guest on the show? Click the link to get started! https://forms.gle/V1yGLH9W9Ck2m4TP7 Let's Connect! Web Instagram Facebook TikTok

Send us a Text Message. This Conversations on the Rocks episode focuses on guest Paul Gosselin and his lifelong passion for soap operas. Paul reminisces about bonding with his mother and grandmother over their favorite soap, Guiding Light. This childhood enthusiasm led Paul to study acting for daytime dramas, hoping to land a role on a soap. While that dream didn't come to fruition, his love for the genre inspired him to write and produce his own web series, Misguided. Paul gets candid about his challenges in developing the series, from navigating the pandemic shutdown to grieving the loss of someone close to him. But through it all, his dedication to honoring soap operas shines through. Paul's life is not just about his creative pursuits. He also plays a significant role as a caregiver, a 'manny' to two young boys. His experience with one child's diabetes diagnosis and his commitment to their wellbeing are testaments to his compassion. Paul's approach to caregiving is marked by flexibility and understanding, as he shares fond memories of special outings. His priority is to bring joy to the lives of those in his care, a value that shines through his actions. Paul's story offers a window into his multifaceted world as an artist and caregiver. He thoughtfully reflects on navigating challenges with creativity, family, and compassion—lessons that continue to guide his journey. About Paul: Born and raised in small-town Vermont, Paul Gosselin always harbored a passion for acting. After high school, he pursued his dream in New York City, studying at the New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts and apprenticing at the Barrow Group Theater. His first television role on "One Life to Live" fulfilled a lifelong dream, leading to appearances on various TV shows like “Damages,” “Saturday Night Live,” and "The Good Wife." Moving to Los Angeles, he delved into theater and storytelling, performing with Mortified across the country. Now based in LA, Paul is focused on building his production company, Cosmopaulitan Entertainment, which debuted its first series, "MISGUIDED," in 2015. Connect with Paul: instagram.com/cosmopaulitan || www.paulgosselin.net || http://YouTube.com/cosmopaulitan || http://www.misguidedseries.com || TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mrpaulgosselin Support the Show. Interested in possibly being a guest on the show? Click the link to get started! https://forms.gle/V1yGLH9W9Ck2m4TP7 Let's Connect! Web Instagram Facebook TikTok

Send us a Text Message. This week, I'm chatting with Angela McAfee, a digital marketing business owner, about the midlife phase. We cover topics on aging, relationships, and personal growth during this time. Angela, a 52-year-old agency owner, shares her journey, focusing on empowerment and self-care. We talk about juggling career and family, highlighting the importance of self-care. Also, we touch on managing boundaries in a youth-centric industry and the significance of honest conversations for clear expectations in relationships, both personal and professional. Throughout the show, Angela and I encourage embracing maturity and wisdom gained from life experiences and stress self-control, boundary setting, and speaking confidently as women in their 50s and beyond. About Angela: Angela Shoffner is the co-founder, Webinar Host, and Business Development for the Digital Marketing Agency SEO Rocket Angela began her marketing career in video and film production at UNC-Chapel Hill. She then moved on to leadership positions in marketing, event coordination, media buying, and campaign creation before joining forces to create SEO Rocket. Angela likes wearing a lot of hats—fancy and otherwise. Her primary missions are handling the “business of the business” for SEO Rocket and maintaining relationships with clients. Her goal is to be the matchmaker who connects each business with the digital marketing strategy that best fits its needs. In her off hours, Angela can be found traveling, camping in a retro Shasta, playing with dogs, gardening, dancing, or laughing a little too loudly. Her motto - Be a strong leader, a joyful partner and a loyal friend. Connect with Angela: LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelasmcafee/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/angelasmac/ website SEORocket.com Support the Show. Interested in possibly being a guest on the show? Click the link to get started! https://forms.gle/V1yGLH9W9Ck2m4TP7 Let's Connect! Web Instagram Facebook TikTok

Send us a Text Message. This week, I enjoyed chatting with Jason Falls, a social media strategist and digital marketing expert from Kentucky. Together, we’re exploring the intersection of social media, music, and culture. Jason shares his journey from his upbringing in Eastern Kentucky to becoming a trailblazer in social media marketing. We chat about the evolution of social media, reminiscing about its more positive and less divisive early days. We also explore Jason's passion for Americana music, particularly his review of Beyoncé's 'Cowboy Carter' album, which skillfully blends country influences with her signature style. Jason further discusses the unnecessary division in music genres and emphasizes the importance of being open-minded toward artists' experimental works. We engage in a lively debate about the state of country music, highlighting emerging artists who are returning to their roots. Additionally, we touch upon bourbon recommendations, the intersection of celebrities like Taylor Swift in sports culture, and the overarching theme of embracing change and diversity in music and life. Throughout the episode, Jason also shares insights from his podcast "Roots Music Rambler," where he reviews new albums with a focus on country, bluegrass, folk, and Americana genres. He provides reviews of various new albums, including Beyonce's "Cowboy Carter" album, and recommends other artists and albums that listeners should check out. About Jason: Jason Falls is one of the leading thinkers in the digital marketing space with a particular focus on influence marketing. His firm Falls+Partners serves a wide range of clients from major consumer product companies to social technology platforms and beyond. Falls is the author of three books; executive producer of the Marketing Podcast Network; co-host of a music podcast and loves Americana music, sports, bourbon and his family. Not in that order. Connect with Jason: Jason Falls online Roots Music Rambler online Jason Falls on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok Support the Show. Interested in possibly being a guest on the show? Click the link to get started! https://forms.gle/V1yGLH9W9Ck2m4TP7 Let's Connect! Web Instagram Facebook TikTok

Send us a Text Message. Kristen Daukas and guest Dorien Morin-van Dam, get real about their experiences as parents of young adults transitioning out of the nest. The conversation pivots to the challenges Gen X parents and their Gen Z children face, ranging from economic pressures, the boomeranging trend of adult children returning home, and the significant impact of social media. They discuss the evolving expectations on wedding costs, college education's value, and the importance of trade careers. Highlighting their parenting strategies, they emphasize setting expectations on financial independence, teaching kids about fiscal responsibility, and encouraging them to engage in life experiences over material possessions. The dialogue also touches on the mental health concerns prevalent among Gen Z, attributing factors, and the need for parents to model desired behaviors and engage in meaningful conversations with their children. The episode closes with a call for parents to lead by example, showcasing the belief in instilling practical life skills and values from a young age. About Dorien: Dorien Morin-van Dam is a leading expert in organic social media and content marketing with over 13 years of experience. As a Certified Social Media Manager and Agile Marketer, she is well-versed in the latest techniques and best practices for driving engagement and results through organic social media. Dorien is an international speaker, and hosts her weekly livestream show and podcast, "Strategy Talks." on Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube. You’ll recognize her on stage and online by her always-present orange glasses, a nod to her Dutch heritage. Connect with Dorien https://www.linkedin.com/in/moreinmedia/ https://www.moreinmedia.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@DorienMorinVanDam/podcasts Support the Show. Interested in possibly being a guest on the show? Click the link to get started! https://forms.gle/V1yGLH9W9Ck2m4TP7 Let's Connect! Web Instagram Facebook TikTok

Send us a Text Message. In this episode, we welcome back Sara Munro to discuss overcoming imposter syndrome. We delve into self-doubt challenges and effective strategies for a positive work environment. Sara shares her experiences and stresses open conversations and the need for a safe space to seek support without judgment. We explore workplace culture's impact on imposter syndrome, focusing on fostering psychological safety. Sara challenges traditional definitions of success, encourages the setting of realistic goals, and emphasizes self-growth. Practical techniques for building confidence and combating imposter syndrome are shared, including positive self-talk and mentorship. Sara uses personal examples to illustrate strategies, highlighting the importance of self-compassion. Our aim is to provide listeners with insights and tools to overcome imposter syndrome and unleash their potential in a supportive environment. Support the Show. Interested in possibly being a guest on the show? Click the link to get started! https://forms.gle/V1yGLH9W9Ck2m4TP7 Let's Connect! Web Instagram Facebook TikTok

Send us a Text Message. Welcome to the show, Sara Munro!! Today's episode explores the realm of imposter syndrome and its disproportionate impact on women. Sara candidly shares her journey with imposter syndrome throughout her career. During one memorable incident, a man questioned Sara's choice to jot down "you are enough" in her bullet journal, revealing a lack of understanding regarding women's struggles with self-doubt. Sara sheds light on the historical backdrop of imposter syndrome. She dives into research showing its varied impact on marginalized groups, who often perceive the systems themselves as flawed rather than just feeling out of place. Sara advocates for the reconstruction of these systems to foster true equity and combat imposter syndrome effectively. Moreover, Sara shares her encounters with implicit bias and toxic behaviors in certain work environments following verbal missteps. Drawing from her scientific background, she has cultivated resilience and acknowledges that setbacks are a natural aspect of any endeavor. She emphasizes the importance of embracing imperfections and taking risks to overcome the sense of not belonging. Support the Show. Interested in possibly being a guest on the show? Click the link to get started! https://forms.gle/V1yGLH9W9Ck2m4TP7 Let's Connect! Web Instagram Facebook TikTok

Send us a Text Message. In this episode, Kristen sits down with Lisa Danforth, the forward-thinking founder of tonique, a company at the forefront of the alcohol-free cocktail movement. Lisa dives into her venture into mindful mixology, inspired by the noticeable increase in alcohol consumption during the COVID pandemic. She shares her passion for creating tonique, an alcohol-free bar service that caters to the growing acceptance of sober lifestyle choices. The conversation covers the landscape of the alcohol-free beverage industry, touching on the challenges, innovations, and the importance of community support and accessibility for those looking to reduce their alcohol intake. Lisa is a vocal advocate for the destigmatization of sobriety and introduces listeners to her unique, flavorful creations. Using unconventional ingredients like coffee, peppers, and teas, she crafts complex mocktails that aim to stand out rather than mimic traditional spirits. Her efforts through tonique offer sophisticated alternatives and encourage a broader movement towards inclusive and wellness-oriented social drinking cultures. The episode concludes with Lisa sharing her aspirations for tonique, including expanding the alcohol-free community and potentially opening a brick-and-mortar alcohol-free lounge. Through her story and tonique's mission, the episode highlights a shift towards more mindful, judgment-free beverage choices, underscoring a future where sobriety and choice are celebrated within the social drinking landscape. About Lisa tonique was founded by Lisa Danforth, an experienced caterer, and 30-year entrepreneur passionate about mindful mixology and creating fun, flavorful, and elegant alcohol-free cocktails. Lisa is also a leadership and work-life wellbeing coach and founder of Lisa Danforth Coaching. We’re an alcohol-free bar service in beautiful Burlington, Vermont, offering a fun and robust menu of craft cocktails, beer & wine, along with shrubs, bitter and functional beverages for your events. All of our house syrups and shrubs are crafted using fresh ingredients. Our citrus juices are always freshly squeezed for our craft cocktails. tonique’s mission is to redefine social experiences by keeping the ritual and shifting our collective relationship with alcohol. Whether sober, sober-curious, pregnant, an athlete, or looking for ways to improve your mental health and wellbeing, we provide an extensive selection of non-alcoholic options for your event. Our love for community building, sustainability, delicious drinks, and creating beauty is at the heart of who we are and at the core of every decision we make. Connect with Lisa: toniquemobilebar.com Instagram Facebook Support the Show. Interested in possibly being a guest on the show? Click the link to get started! https://forms.gle/V1yGLH9W9Ck2m4TP7 Let's Connect! Web Instagram Facebook TikTok

Send us a Text Message. This week, we’re knocking the dust off this show with the help of Suzanne Vaughan! In this episode, we take a deep dive into the world of Suzanne Vaughan, a visionary who had the foresight to see the COVID-19 pandemic coming due to an unusual spike in demand for protective supplies at her workplace back in early 2020. Fast forward to today, Suzanne has hung up her work boots and is fully indulging in the freedom of retirement. This new chapter in her life is filled with her passions - from the dramatic allure of theater and the magic of lighting design to the meaningful pursuit of advocacy work. Suzanne gives us a sneak peek into the exciting theater projects she's currently steering in the Winston-Salem area, painting a vivid picture of her creative endeavors. But it's not all curtains and spotlights; she shares the poignant challenges of caring for her mother during her final years and navigating the complex maze of grief after her passing. These experiences have shaped her, giving depth to her story. Retirement for Suzanne isn't about slowing down; it's about chasing the next adventure, from exploring Pittsburgh to marveling at Niagara Falls, and tracing the scenic East Coast. Even as she juggles various projects, Suzanne dreams of future travels, awaiting the right moment when she's ready to leap into the next big adventure post a significant period of personal loss. This episode isn't just Suzanne's story—it's a testimony to resilience, passion, and the art of moving forward. About Suzanne: ​​A native North Carolinian, Suzanne Vaughan has called Winston-Salem home for about twenty-five years. She spent most of her career working for consumable supply distributors, utilizing her customer service, sales, and marketing skills. Now untethered, she is pursuing her passions, which include writing, theatrical lighting and set design, and performing. She also advocates for marginalized communities, animals, and climate change and tries to use her platform to inspire others to break free from the status quo. Connect with Suzanne: Instagram: suzvaughan12 TikTok: suzvaughan11 Support the Show. Interested in possibly being a guest on the show? Click the link to get started! https://forms.gle/V1yGLH9W9Ck2m4TP7 Let's Connect! Web Instagram Facebook TikTok

Send us a Text Message. While Gen Z may be wizards at technology, teachers and professors admit that the one thing they're lacking is an aptitude at soft skills - things such as face to face interaction and communication, critical thinking, conflict resolution, etc. In this episode, I'm joined by Glynis Bell who has been teaching college students these skills for the past few years. Some of the points we cover are: Also mentioned in the show is Glynis' book, Fierce and Fabulous: A Young Lady's Guide to Inspiration and Positive Self-Image, which you can purchase by clicking the link! Support the Show. Interested in possibly being a guest on the show? Click the link to get started! https://forms.gle/V1yGLH9W9Ck2m4TP7 Let's Connect! Web Instagram Facebook TikTok

Send us a Text Message. Have you ever wanted to flex your creative muscles and start something new but weren't sure how to start? This week, I'm chatting with Paul Gosselin and we discuss how to get started on whatever your creative dream may be. Paul and I met years ago on Twitter because we both loved the longest-running soap opera, Guiding Light. When the show was canceled, Paul decided that this was the chance for him to live his dream AND keep the light burning and he launched his own version of the soap called Misguided. Following high school, Paul moved to New York City and attended the New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts. He continued to study with actress, Maggie Reed, following his graduation from the two-year program. Paul also was selected as an apprentice at the Barrow Group Theater and studied under Lee Brock and Seth Barrish. The first television audition Paul had in New York City was for One Life to Live, and he booked the role, fulfilling a lifelong dream to appear on a soap opera. The day his episode aired, Paul was immediately invited back for another episode. Before leaving for Los Angeles in 2011, Paul appeared on several TV shows including Damages, The Good Wife and Saturday Night Live, to name a few. Shortly after moving to Los Angeles and becoming involved in the theater community, Paul took up storytelling, with the live stage show of Mortified. With Mortified, Paul has traveled the country appearing in several of the chapters, sharing the shame and entertaining audiences. Currently, in Los Angeles, Paul is hard at work developing his own production company, Cosmopaulitan Entertainment, which launched its first mini-series, MISGUIDED, in 2015. You can follow Paul and the show, Misguided at the links below! https://www.paulgosselin.net/ https://www.youtube.com/user/cosmopaulitan/featured http://www.twitter.com/cosmopaulitan http://www.facebook.com/Mr.PaulGosselin http://www.instagram.com/cosmopaulitan https://www.instagram.com/misguidedseries/ Support the Show. Interested in possibly being a guest on the show? Click the link to get started! https://forms.gle/V1yGLH9W9Ck2m4TP7 Let's Connect! Web Instagram Facebook TikTok