Hey! I Want Your Job!

Pain has no place in this world according to Fran. Not only is she a #1 bestselling author, speaker, Body-Positive Personal Trainer, Pain Reduction Coach and Fibromyalgia Warrior, she is the heroine in teaching others to live pain free. In this episode, Fran and Michele open up about the challenges that they have experienced living with constant pain, and it's various contributors. They talk about the important factors of our lifestyles that contributes to the pain that many of us experience. They talk about Fran's passion for inclusive movement practices, body acceptance, stress reduction and learning to love movement. They take deep dive into the root cause of the hurt that is true and the ones we manifest. It's a reality check that confirms we can take control. 

Don't let pain keep you from living your best life. Connect with Fran and let her show you how it's done!

Social Media Links:

We think of fine art curators as caped heroes protecting the valuable art of millionaires, but in reality they are the guardians that keep people believing in art's greatness. Just like Ann, she uses her curator mastery, not only as a steward of fine art, but also as a champion to transform people into art lovers. In this episode, Ann draws from her art historian expertise to take us through the history of art and what has cultivated it into the unique masterpieces we see today. Ann's recipe for the best flavors of art come from it getting squished into the heart and flowing out through the hand. Art is the best of humanity's creativity, and with our guardians like Ann, we can make sure it continues to be the creative pinnacle for humanity.

Want to know more on why prints are awesome? Get connected with Ann, she is art guru we never knew we needed!

It's easy to groan about all the things that are wrong with our lives, but do we actually take a moment to figure out what is causing all the wrong things? We try to fill voids with things that we think we need but luckily we have Jessica, a lifestyle and organization mentor, who can confidently tell us less is more. In this episode Jessica, shares how her keen eye and diverse career path has helped her become the teacher others need to get their lives on track. She and Michele share their experiences with maintaining a lifestyle that gives them peace in their space, and how to rid the monster of clutter from taking over. 

If your New Year's resolution to start living a happier life, go check out Jessica, and make awesome things happen!

If the thought of having your own business scares you, don't worry, Hannah has your back. She may have some lack of confidence, but she made a daring choice to start her own Virtual Assistant business and is now a kickass VA coach specializing in supporting Mums and those who lack confidence, to set up their own, powerful Virtual Assistant business. In this episode Hannah and Michele breakdown the impressions what a virtual assistant is and how powerful they can be when supporting business owners. They talk about balance so entrepreneurs are not caught up in the idea of living to work, instead of working to live. It's an eye-opening conversation about the world of VA's filled with advice if one decides to take a leap into an unknown realm. 

Once you listen to the podcast you're going to want more Hannah.  Here's how to find it:

Julie Moe is a dynamo.  She's cool AF.  She's smart AF.  She's funny.  She's kicking a$$ professionally, and as a mother.  In the midst of all of that she's helping other women take control of their lives and livelihoods.  In this episode Julie and Michele talk about websites - what works and what doesn't.  They talk about women in business and how to be heard.  They talk about trying to balance motherhood with professional drive. It's a conversation that working moms are going to identify with and nod along to. It's one the everyone else should listen to and take note of.

Once listen to the podcast you're going to want more Julie.  Here's how to find it:

For many people, the phrase "brain training" sparks thoughts of online games and apps, but Dr. Amy Moore provides the 1-on-1 human alternative for struggling learners. In this episode of Hey! I Want Your Job, she speaks with Michele about one of the most common concerns posed by parents of an excitable kiddo: "I think my child has ADHD. Now what?!" Armed with her extensive credentials and experience, along with an empathetic approach as an ADHD Warrior herself, Dr. Moore breaks down some of the common misconceptions regarding this condition. She also speaks on the subject of why some parents might choose to serve as a partner in their child's brain-training program, why some elect to leave it entirely up to the pros, and why either approach is completely a-okay! 

Long-gone are the days when cash ruled the world. But many payment-processing companies still aren't set up to look out for the best interests of solo entrepreneurs or even small businesses. Jamie Barlett's company, Polypay, is out to make the system more accessible for businesses of all types and sizes. Meanwhile, she's working to improve the work-life balance for her own employees, ensuring fairness starts from the inside out. In this episode, she talks with Michele about overcoming many of the obstacles and expectations associated with being a "Head B*tch in Charge," including why it's okay to make certain jokes in a professional setting, but not acceptable to call your employees "family" -- or waste a person's time with an unnecessary "Rose All Day" happy hour. 

Learn more about Polypay and Jamie at: 

Polypay website: https://polypay.com/ 

Jamie Barlett LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-barlett-0b8a4116/

There are a lot of ways that this country lets down those who serve.  An often overlooked one is that we don't provide affordable, safe, and comfortable housing for them and their families when we ask them to relocate.  Often enlisted personnel - and their families - spend months waiting on housing to become available.  Kate Dunne and her employer, Patriot Family Homes, are trying to help.  They offer reasonably priced AirBNB's designed to accommodate families in longer term stays.  Kate talks a lot about their process and her design ethos (comfortable, sturdy, affordable), but mostly about the people they help.  Think that travelling around the country decorating homes for veterans sounds like a dream job?  Great! They're hiring....

There is no harder job than being a parent.  Add to that the conflicting societal stresses put on women about who they "should" be, and you get a real need for a mentor.  Everyone has their own thought, suggestions, and recommendations on how to raise your kid.  Most of this is based on either how they were raised themselves, a book they read, or how they raise their own children.  And 90%+++ is garbage.  It doesn't reflect YOUR child, or YOUR household.  Jill Urbane is an actual expert with actual training who works with parents to cut through the noise, cut through the drama and find ways of improving things for their actual household.  She's the bestfriend every mom needs.  Jill will come to you live via Zoom to help, but she's also got a wealth of free resources available to help anyone who needs it.  Check her out:

England is full of places that would call themselves the "oldest" or "longest continuously operating" and plenty that would claim "the most haunted".  Old buildings, and history of wars, violence, and individual traumas all lend to a the types of places we think of as haunted.  Ernie Boxall will give you all the reasons that Tudor World in Stratford Upon Avon is at least one of the most haunted buildings in England.  In his role as Ghostly Guide he regales visitors with the tells of spirits reaching out to the living, and the circumstances that created them.

When someone within our circle is diagnosed with cancer it's a difficult experience for everyone.  Kim Hamer reminds people that "they're experiencing it too".  She leads from a strong place of empathy and experience.  Having lost her husband at a very young age to unexpected cancer she knows what it's like.  In this episode Kim talks about how she was frustrated with her mother in law until she realized "I lost a husband, but she lost a son".  Big, scary things happen not only to us but to those around us.  They affect our colleagues, families, friends, businesses, and so much more.  

Limor Bergman managed to work her way to Director of Engineering despite all the odds being stacked against her as both a woman and an immigrant.  Along the way she learned a lot of lessons about "playing the game" and when not to play it.  Today she uses that hard-won knowledge to employer the next line of women in engineering.  Here's what she says:

Think comic book geeks are all boys? Nope.  Think the ones that aren't are all chubby teenage girls? Nope.

Think people fantasy fans are all starry-eyed romantics who can't deal with reality? Nope.

Meet Danielle.  She breaks all the stereotypes.  Beautiful, smart, kind, and in every possible, amazing way - a massive NERD!  She's breathtaking.

With the major investments in startups over the last couple of years a few roles have seen a huge increase in demand.  Many of those are in the "Product" area, so titles like Product Manager (PM), Product Marketing Manager (PMM), and their ilk have become hot hot hot in the market.  For many looking to grow their careers, or change into these paths there is a lot of confusion about what's what, and who's who.  What's the difference between a Project Manger, Product Manger, Program Manager, and Architect?  Honestly, the Venn Diagram for all of those has a lot of overlap, but there are some important distinctions.  Patrick Falgoust is an expert on all of the above. Not only is he a Senior Product Manager, but he either currently or historically has hired all of the above.  

In this week's episode Patrick talks through the realities of what are these roles, and how do you get one.  He has some surprising advise for job seekers included!

If you want to learn more about Patrick you can find him here:

Tina Larsson and her company, The Folson Group, are starting a thriving business solving modern problems for business and home owners in New  York City.  As so many areas are moving to more and more automation Tina has found that going back to a direct, personal approach not only improves the quality of service but can save thousands of dollars.  Taking the time to build business and make connections with people on a one-to-one basis still works.  It's a bold, and important lesson for all of us in business to remember.

Here's her official bio:

Tina Larsson is the co-founder and owner of The Folson Group, the premier coop and condo cost consultant who helps NYC apartment owners increase their property values. The company is a disruptor in the residential real estate world. Tina holds a LEED Green Associate designation and is on a mission to make NYC greener one building at a time.

If you feel like Tina and The Folson Group may be just what you're looking for, here's how to get in touch!

Bobby Hedglin-Taylor is one of those people that brightens any room.  His anecdotes are so incredible that they would be difficult to believe from anyone less humble!  Circus, theater, television, books, you name it and Bobby's been involved!  While he never name drops it is clear he's been in some of the most incredible places with some amazing people.  High on the that list - his mom!  Bobby has written an incredible homage to his mother's humor, perspective, and memory called "#ShitMyMamaSays".  It's hilarious, and moving, and a bundle of catharsis in one place.  Here's what he says about it:  

A little about me: Bobby Hedglin-Taylor, a circus and aerial designer who has worked on and off Broadway, in summer stock and regional theater as well as rock concerts and cruise ships, has just published his first book! Bobby's book is a tribute to his late mother called #ShitMyMamaSays-a humorous look at life while dealing with dementia. Now available on Amazon. In a recent podcast interview the host called him the "multi-hyphenated artist". Indeed he is! Trapeze artist, actor, dancer, singer, comic are only a few of those hyphens! Now adding author to his extended list! After his mother showed signs of dementia, Bobby had to take on the gut wrenching task of moving his mother into a nursing home. She was a spitfire with a mouth like a truck driver. To deal with the emotion and guilt Bobby took his mom's pithy sayings and shared them on social media. Sharing with the Hashtag #ShitMyMamaSays. This became a humorous way to deal with the stress and connect with others who have traveled the same path. After losing his mother at the beginning of the pandemic and suffering with Covid-19 himself Bobby Hedglin-Taylor began to write and in the 16 months of quarantine wrote two books to memorialize her amazing sense of humor. Bobby hopes that you will enjoy the first installment having his mother coming to life through these quotes and her incredible spirit. 

If you're a fan (even a casual one) of Lady Mekaella, you've seen a lot more of her than you have most of our other guests.  Her talents are varied, to say the least, including costume design, stilt walking, fire eating, dance, singing, and so so much more.  There is no way to see the vibrant and imaginative costumes she creates and not be clear of how exceptionally gifted she is as a seamstress.  Lady Mekaella uses all of these formidable talents in her nerdlesque shows, and self-describes as a stripper.  Brassy and unapologetic she embraces her profession and seems to revel in the art, power play, and (at least a little) the inevitable pearl-clutching that job elicits from some.

Lady Mekaella is stunning.  Her photos appearing in your Instagram, FB, or any other feed will stop you in your tracks every time just from the sheer beauty of the images.  That's not accidental.  She works hard to get the pictures perfect, the costumes vibrant, the lighting exact, and then to add just enough personality and zazz to bring it all together.  She does all of that, very successfully, in a body that is not what mainstream media tells us is ideal.  She does it in a real body with curves, and wiggles, and she makes it look incredible.

Here's how she describes herself:

“The Fangirl with Fangirls” & five-time award winner also known as " Ocala's Grande Duchess of Burlesque" as dubbed by a local theatre director, Lady Mekaella has made a name for herself in comedic storytelling acts. whether in Classical or Nerdlesque (Cosplay Burlesque) she creates a theatrical experience in each of her performances. Available for highly trained & fully insured dangerous acts with fire, stilts, & even Human Blockhead & Bed of Nails as well as a sassy Mistress of Ceremonies, Lady Mekaella is sure to please your audiences. After over 15 years of experience in traditional Theatre, 4 years of college arts studies, Lady Mekaella now only focuses on nightlife entertainment in her vaudeville & geek niches, whether stage productions or atmosphere bookings. She is also the producer for Ocala, Florida's Longest running, full length, body positive, Burlesque show that made national headlines; The Marion at Midnight Series, a regular spectacle that sold out an over 300+ seated historical theatre, as well as other more intimate productions. She travels as far south as Miami, FL & as far north as New Orleans, but contracts with travel are negotiable! She has worked with over 5 troupes in Florida & Louisiana & teaches workshops on a range of subjects from Body-Positivity/self-love as a performer to the business savvy of being a producer & self-marketing on a performer’s realistic budget. She is also the founder of the charitable organization United Universes, a Cosplay for A Cause Project where cosplayers give back to the community from fundraisers to hospital visits. When not onstage She is a costumer and contributing SFX artist for Mertailor Studios.

To learn and see more find her any of these places:

When most of us think of exceptional thought leaders driving an agenda of inclusiveness and trying to force the medical establishment to be better, do better, and treat better - especially those who come from minority groups we don't usually picture a fierce Black woman, who is a health practitioner in Alaska.  Heck, most of us probably didn't realize there ARE Black women in Alaska (with right around 3% of the Alaskan population being Black there is a reason for that).  Yet, there she is.  Reketta Peterson and her practice, Arise Counselling is helping Alaskan citizens stay "Boo'd Up" - building connections and helping people maintain social networks in a time that we're all struggling to remember how to engage with others. 

As a BIPOC Health Equity Consultant Reketta does something just as important, at a systemic level.  Here's how she describes it:

At the root of poor quality services lies subtle and often overlooked discriminatory practices stemming from Medical Racism, Gender bias, and Weight Discrimination.

As your consultant, I take the time to look at your organization’s specific needs for success in order to curate an experience that positively impacts staff and clients.

As a note to listeners, in this episode Michele and Reketta talk about some deeply personal and potentially triggering topics including post partum depression, and SIDS. While they bring it to a healthy place we want people to be warned about it.

If you want to reach out or learn more about Reketta, here's how to find her:

What is art?  Do you think of paintings?  Sculpture?  Art takes so many forms and functions within our community and means different things to everyone.  Beautiful, hand-crafted functional things like jewelry, ceramics, and textiles hold a special place as art that we can engage with everyday.  Tasha Sattler not only makes wearable art, in the form of jewelry, she specializes in creating it for dancers!  During this conversation Tasha spills all the insider tea about the fine jewelry biz.  From diamonds to platinum, and how to be a great customer.  She's hilarious and down to earth - but above all insanely talented.  Hopefully this episode will inspire you to look for something bespoke, perhaps custom from Tasha or someone like her, when you're next in the market for a special, beautiful item.

Here's  more about Tash in her own words:

Growing up I was a really imaginative and creative kid. At 15, I began working in a local jewelry store where I spent a lot of time learning the ins and outs of diamonds, gemstones and fine jewelry.  After university, I travelled for a few years but kept being pulled back to jewelry. I felt that jewelry design and goldsmithing could be the perfect blend of having a job that is both in demand but also allowed me to be creative everyday.

I graduated from FVCC in Kalispell, Montana in 2008 with an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Goldsmithing and Jewelry Arts as well as an Associate of Applied Science Degree in in 3D Jewelry Design and Production. Since then I have worked as a bench jeweler, training under multiple goldsmiths in various disciplines, with the majority of my career being in fine jewelry repair, diamond jewelry and engagement ring manufacturing.

A few years ago it was brought to my attention by some dancer friends of mine, how little jewelry was available on the market that represented the lifestyle of serious professional dancers. Most dance genres, other than ballet, are barely represented and there is even less currently available for male dancers. If dance is your life and you have spent years training and practicing, there should be an option available other than jewelry designed for five year old ballerinas shouldn’t there?

I not only wanted to reflect the passion of dancers with our collections, but I really feel that in a world full of mass production and fast fashion you deserve something better. So I set out to create a line of jewelry that is high quality, hand crafted and timeless. Made from precious metal in small hand finished batches, it is meant to be a true reflection on the outside of how you feel on the inside.

When I am not in the jewelry studio, yeah right like that happens, you can find me hanging out with my amazing husband Shawn, our two little girls Elyse and Lydia, and my stepson Nate (otherwise known as my free gift with purchase).

When you're ready, here's how to find her:

Finding ways to cope with loss and, most especially, the impending death of a loved one is a challenge that everyone must learn to combat in their life.  These last few years we have all had to find new and creative ways to grieve and prepare for that change. Shannon MacFarlane photographs individuals, families, and pets in these intimate, vulnerable moments.  Finding the glimpses of joy and moments of laughter is her specialty. In this emotional conversation she talks about how she found this path, why she does it, and what that brings to the families she engages with.  It will make you think.  If you're wondering more the woman behind the camera, here's how she describes herself:

Shannon works as a compassionate human and grief photographer in the Pacific Northwest (USA). She is not at all interested in small talk and extremely interested in meeting all animals who want to make new friends. Shannon started her first photography business in 2009 and began concentrating on telling stories rooted in grief and love in 2013.

If you'd like to learn more, or reach out you can find her here:

If you grew up in the 80's or 90's in the US you probably have fond memories of LeVar Burton reading you books, and chasing "butterflies in the sky".  The love of reading and books was then, probably, backed up at school with the chance to earn a FREE (tiny) personal pizza at PizzaHut by reading a certain number of books.  Kids loved it. Today Reading Rainbow is off the air, and has been since 2006, and there is no more "pizza for reading" program.  So what do parents do today to help get kids jazzed about books?  Danny Brassell has an answer.  His program helps parents to build not only a love for reading, but the kind of strong literacy skills that will help with a future of standardized tests and late-night study sessions.  

Danny's energy is infectious, and he's clearly passionate about what he does.  Danny meets with teachers, administrators, and educators at all levels to help inspire them and give them direction.  He also works one-to-one with families and parents to help individual students get the extra help kiddos sometimes need.  If you want to find more about Danny check it out here:

Every year fertility rates are declining, especially in the most developed countries.  Birth rates are lower, and more and more couples are turning to fertility medicine like IVF.  The process is stressful, expensive, and emotional.  For  many it is simply outside of what they can afford, or manage within their lifestyles.  Morgan Rockwell offers a different approach.  Her techniques and treatments come from ancient Oriental Medicine.  Here's what Morgan says about it:

Street-Cred?

I have a background in Western Laboratory Sciences. I have a Master’s in Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (MAcOM) with a clinical emphasis on integrative fertility. I am a board-certified Acupuncturist and Herbalist. I am an Integrative Nutrition Coach. I believe wholeheartedly in integrative medicine.   It allows the body to remember how to heal itself, which provides more lasting results.

When it comes to hormonal health and fertility, there is a lot of mis-information, myths and complete misunderstanding of remedies.  (Like putting listerine in your belly button) No judgment whatsoever if you tried it, because the belly button is actually one place to affect fertility, you just want to use a different remedy!

I have helped 100’s women apply the correct information for them to balance their hormones in a natural, holistic way to successfully conceive, carry full term, and deliver healthy babies.

Morgan works together with western medicine to get the best outcomes possible for her patients.  If you want to learn more about Morgan and her services you can find them here:

Have you heard strange noises in the night?  Heard voices of people not there? Felt a chill and a sudden change in temperature?  Kristy Sumner has.  The team at Soul Sisters (and yes, they are sisters!) travels around investigating rumors of hauntings and looking for clear, scientifically reliable evidence of spectral manifestations.  They have found... a LOT.  Is it all irrefutable guaranteed to convert anyone? Nope - and that may be one of the best parts.  There is also something especially engaging about Kristy and her sisters.  All have different research and/or scientific backgrounds, all are women of faith, all approached this with a heavy dose of skepticism - and all are now firm believers.  

Here's what Kristy says about herself:

In 2014, Dr. Kristy Sumner coupled her passion for travel, history and the paranormal when she formed Soul Sisters Paranormal, an all-female team, made up of Sumner, her two sisters and two friends. As a team of 5 investigators, Soul Sisters Paranormal traveled to some of the most historic and, reportedly, haunted locations in the U.S. in an attempt to determine for themselves if spirit activity does exist and to highlight the rich history of each location. Individually, each member of the team is an accomplished professional in her respective field, and each holds a Masters, PhD or JD degree. The team traveled to and investigated numerous US locations, including: the Trans Allegheny Lunatic Asylum (WV), The Lizzie Borden House (MA), the Villisca Ax Murder House (IA), the St. Augustine Lighthouse (FL), Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary (TN) and many others.

In 2020, Soul Sisters Paranormal moved to a two-investigator format, with only Kristy and her twin sister, Dr. Jenny Sumner, conducting the paranormal investigations.

Prior to forming Soul Sister Paranormal, Kristy, who holds a PhD in Public Affairs with an emphasis on Criminal Justice, was a senior director for a Registered Traveler company focused on biometric clearances for the traveling public, she was a senior consultant for a biometric credentialing company, and she was college professor at Metro State College of Denver and the University of Central Florida.

Want to know more about Soul Sisters?  Want to see the video evidence of their work?  You should!!!  Here you go:

Mara Girone has lived around the world - from Athens, to Mexico, London, and more.  She's started successful business, raised a family, and created a line of beautiful, wearable art.  In this interview she talks about all of those things.

Here's Mara in her own words:

I am Mara.

My passion for the beauty and diversity of our world has taken me from Italy to Mexico to Portugal then Greece, to working and raising my family in London. My work is inspired by the tapestry of life and speaks to women who are adventurous, feminine, brave and authentic. I embellish clothes with hand embroidery for women who are guided by passion and curiosity for our rich and colorful world, facing every day with independent spirit and style.

I fell in love with hand-embroidery at the age of 8 and returned to this art regularly throughout my life. After completing my degree in Italy, I worked in publishing across the world, eventually founding and managing my own publishing house. I was living in Athens when I turned to hand embroidery again. This art became a defining feature of my day-to-day life and I promised myself that I would not lose it again.

I moved to London in 2017. and took a leap of faith jumping with both feet and a full heart into this adventure of empowering hand embroidery. I create bespoke and ready to wear hoodies and t-shirts embellished with hand embroidered flowers, patterns and motivational words designed to inspire women to face the world with confidence and authenticity. My pieces speak to the contrasts in our lives and denote edgy femininity and elegance coupled with energy and joy.

My designs are derived from original drawings inspired by my passions: nature, literature, museums and theatre. The vibrancy of London impacts my work and I loves the epiphany I reach when all the sketches, words and images in my head start morphing into a vision for a new creation.

If you want to find more about Mara, her work, her podcast, or anything else here's where to find her:

We've had a lot of amazing people on this podcast. CEO's, philanthropists, innovators, business gurus, etc. Everyone of them has been exceptional in some way or another. Then there's Dr Tamara Beckford. A woman who is exceptional in EVERY way. She job is literally saving lives all day every day (actually all night...) as an ER doctor. She's also hilarious, and kind. She's a great mom, sister, and friend. In almost any and every way you could imagine Tamara raises the bar for what a person can and should do. Just when you start to feel like you're not enough, or a bit salty about that, she comes along and in her "free time" starts an organization dedicated to helping women find balance and protect their mental health with self-care. That's right, the woman who hasn't had what any sane person would call free time in years took it next level. Incredible.

Here's Tamara in her own words:

Dr. Tamara Beckford is a wife, mother, and board-certified emergency physician who attended medical school in Newark, New Jersey, and trained in emergency medicine in Philadelphia. Dr. Beckford has more than a decade of experience working in emergency rooms across the country. Most recently, she has been on the frontlines battling COVID-19 in Houston. Dr. Beckford has a passion for health and wellness and has produced hundreds of videos on social media to inform and empower the public in managing their health. She is the founder and CEO of Ur Caring Docs. Ur Caring Docs helps busy professional women take an active role in their health and wellness by putting themselves first for two hours per month of lessons, discussion, and support. Dr. Beckord is also the host of the Docs Who Care Podcast. On the podcast, Dr. Beckford interviews doctors from all over the world and discusses common medical conditions in a fun and easy-to-understand way. Dr. Beckford is active on all social media platforms as Ur Caring Docs.

It would be difficult to not be inspired by Dr. Beckford. So when you are, and want to know more, here you go:

Wade Simmons is almost a lot of things.  He's almost a pro wrestler.  He's almost a certified mortician.  He's almost a film maker.  Wade is also already a lot of things.  He's a dreamer.  He's a heck of a nice guy.  Most interestingly, he's really really happy.  Wade will be the first guy to tell you he doesn't have, make, or aspire to a lot of money.  In an age of record breaking inflation and a wealth gap of a similar size to the Pacific Ocean Wade's perspective is... unique.  Most of the folks on this show are aspiring to world domination, or traditional visions of "greatness" from one perspective or another.  In his uniqueness on this Wade is refreshing.

The audio in this episode is a little lower quality than our usual.  Remember, Wade is ALMOST a film maker - top of his list is a better mic and web cam.

If you're charmed, delighted, or just curious about Wade you can find more about him here:

One of the good things that has come out of the pandemic is that many people have used this as a time to reconnect with their love of food and cooking.  Lockdown happened in March and by May millions were baking sourdough bread daily, brewing kombucha, and experimenting with new recipes and ways of cooking.  During all of this the common recipe blog trick of front loading the page with back story, and anecdote before listing the recipe became the bane of every home cook's culinary existence.  Annie Singer is here with the solution. Her platform, Reicple, not only doesn't have that problem, but it also celebrates and rewards up-and-coming chefs and home cooks.  Reciple is a venture of hope, and love - but is it also good business?  Michele and Annie talk through those prospects as well as the privilege that got them both to where they are.

We've all had those moments of day dreaming where we think of packing it all in, finding a nice beach somewhere and living a quiet life with plenty of rum and coconuts.  Even if you've never been on a boat, or if you have an hated it you're probably familiar with this feeling/idea.  Eric Pearce actually did it.  He had always loved boats, and water, and the outdoors.  Weekends were on the water.  Same for afternoons and vacations.  Eventually he decided to make the leap - to stop carving out moments from his desk job and instead to start a business sharing his love.  Eric's wife and family were... dubious....  eventually they agreed and 30A Boat Valet was born.  He's never looked back.  Eric has managed to build a business despite the pandemic, economic challenges, environmental concerns and more.

Hear all about how he did it, and what lies in store.

Life since March of 2020 has been harder than any adult could have imagined. For those of us with kids - even more so.  Trying to navigate our own feelings, let alone those of developing humans or a relationship is at best overwhelming, and at worst.... well.  Worse.  Roya Dedeaux is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist helping people connect and play their way through these times.  She leads with laughter, and vulnerability in a way that is impossible to not be drawn to.  

Here's how Roya describes herself:

Roya Dedeaux is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a focus on parenting and play. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Recreation and a Master’s degree in Counseling from California State University, Long Beach where she now teaches in the Recreation and Leisure Studies department.

This experience has led her to both a private therapy practice and career in business training. She believes strongly in the importance and power of play for all ages, and has spent the majority of her personal and professional life inspiring others to become more playful. She has been a featured or keynote speaker at over 60 conferences, speaking about the importance of  supporting kids interests and using play with purpose to improve relationships, learning, mental health, and overall well-being.

As a grown homeschooler, she conducted the largest study related to mental health and homeschooling in the United States.  Her first book Connect with Courage: practical ways to work through fear and find joy in the places your kids take you is now available at all major book retailers.

Roya specializes in using art in her therapy practice, and as her own creative outlet, she creates handmade jewelry out of clay and crochet at Royaboya Handmade. She uses her event management and recreation background with her love of supporting mom owned businesses to host a regular multi-vendor virtual Bazaar for small businesses. She recently launched a youth-entrepreneur sponsorship program which supports kids and teens who are interested in learning how to run small businesses. She also loves to play with her wonderful children, husband, and animals where they live and homeschool  in Southern California.

This episode has some genuine tears, and a lot of truth telling so get ready.  If you're moved afterwards to find out more about Roya here's how:

Real estate is one of those careers where we all have a clear picture of what kind of people do that job.  It's not always a flattering picture. 

We blame the poor for their poverty. Calling them lazy or entitled.

Black men are demonized as violent, drug users, and bad fathers.

With all of this together, Asher Carr shouldn't have had a chance.  He shouldn't be a tremendously kind, bright professional who has clawed his way to success and is now seeking to help his community.  But he is.  Here's how Asher describes himself:

Asher Carr is a first-generation college graduate with a passion for serving people through the world of real estate. During his college career, Asher's success skyrocketed as a business major and he received multiple awards and accolades for his character, scholarship, student leadership, and citizenship. After graduating from Penn State in 2016, he started his career in financial operations before shifting to real estate operations in 2019. In his first two years in real estate, Asher acted as the Client Engagement and Operations Coordinator for a Keller Williams team in Washington, DC, and brought in over $18M in sales volume for the team. He is also a licensed agent in New Jersey, and Maryland. In 2021, Asher self-published his memoir, "From Broke to BOLD: A Testimony Into Real Estate Through Faith, Family, and Business", which shares his start in the industry. Through real estate, Asher learned the art of “service before sales” under Keller Williams and he continues to transform the lives of clients by meeting and exceeding their needs.

In this episode Asher gives some insight into his journey, talks about the book, and where he is now.  If you want to know more about Asher you can find it here:

Most people love a good scare - at least occasionally.  We all have memory of one time or another when a film "got" us and the way we jumped was fantastic.  Whether or not you love horror though, well, that's another matter.  The treatment of women, and minorities in particular is highly problematic in the genre, and that's before we get to the blood.  Big N Funky Productions takes a unique approach to the whole thing.  Coming from a background as pro wrestlers, their perspective is less classically tongue-in-cheek (think Scream or Jeepers Creepers) and more the deadpan  dare you to laugh style we'd associate with the Andy Kaufman's.  Is this code for sophisticated entertainment?  Absolutely not - but they are really pretty funny!

In this interview we peak behind the scenes not only talking to the two founders, but also one of their lead actors, and the marketing and promotions person that makes it all happen.  They crew take on some serious questions with some great answers and a lot of irreverence. 

One of the biggest changes in business since 2019 has been the rise of the "authentic" employment vibe.  No one wants cheesy headshots or canned, sales-y "elevator pitches".  Instead the market wants people who look, act, and feel REAL.  Enter Dan Roth.  In 2020 Dan was looking for work and struggling.  With twin baby girls, and the expense that is life in California he was doing his best not to panic. Like all good job seekers Dan turned to LinkedIn for networking and support.  This is where his story differs from the rest of us.  Posting regularly about his feelings, his life, his struggles, and more Dan has amassed a huge following.  His Job Connection Tuesday posts regularly get views of >100K.  He has become a much in demand speaker, moderator, and trainer.  In many ways Dan is the real life Ryan Reynolds in "Free Guy" for job seekers everywhere.  In this episode he talks about how it started, how it's going, and where he hopes to take it.  Anyone who thinks they might want to be a "LinkedIn Influencer"  needs to give this one a lesson.

If you don't already know Dan, here's where to find him:

When someone is recognized for being great at their job they get promoted, and up and up the chain they move.  We don't stop and consider nearly enough that just because someone is FANTASTIC at their current role it doesn't mean that they would be similarly skilled at people management.  It's a totally different skill set.  A completely different focus, and (most importantly) often a different kind of person.  Chris Clements not only acknowledges but embraces this.  He's a leader in technology, but has managed to draw lines in his career around not needing to be a people manager.  Subject matter expert - yes.  Business systems guru - you bet.  Technologist capable of blue printing solutions to your most complex corporate issues - heck yeah!  Devoted servant-leader who thrives by empowering his time - nope.  No thank you.  As few direct reports as possible.

For all those out there thinking how much they love their work but are worried about making the leap to management.  For all those who have suffered under terrible leadership who might have been great technically but should NEVER have been put in charge of people Chris Clements is your guy.  Not all heroes wear capes.  Sometimes they just say "no thanks".

If you're excited by Chris's awesomeness and want reach out here's where to find him:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-clements-b439677/

If you didn't already know the process of getting a Tedx talk is.... long.  Like really long.  There are hoops, and dead ends, twists, and turns.  It's not something you're going to do without being called to it.  Natalie Robinson Bruner had a calling.  She got on the stage and talked about the crisis we have around diversity in STEM - and she brought a solution.  A peer-to-peer pipeline initiative that helps young people be guided and inspired by those at the next step of their journey.  Genius.

One of the careers with the highest burnout and the most people who really think they want to do the job is events.  Constantly we hear folks talking about how much they love party planning, and so they're going to "go pro".  What doesn't get the press are the incredibly long hours, the lack of recognition, and the fierce competitiveness of the industry.  In the end there are precious few who actually manage to survive in the field.  Samara Hurley hasn't just survived - she's kicked a lot of a$$!  

As a military spouse Samara has moved more than most of the rest of us do in a lifetime, and done so internationally.  On top of that she's raising some great kids and managing to be a healthy person.  Yet somehow in the midst of this she has created a very successful career overseeing executive events and parties for some of the biggest names in business.  How?  Well - listen in, she'll tell you!

Want to learn more about Samara?  Need her services?  Find her here:

When you picture a C-suite exec in the petroleum industry what do you see?  60+ (ok, 65++) white, hetero, cis, male?  You'd be overwhelmingly correct.  And then there's Jennifer Hohman.  SHE is well under 60, embraces change, accepts corporate responsibility for being a good social citizen (including around environmental impacts), and makes is it a personal mission to learn and grow in the areas of DEI and social justice.  Not what you were expecting?  You're not alone!  Listen as she talks through her approach to business, life, and the fact that those things were never actually separate, and it's time that we stop pretending they are.  Jennifer shares some very real vulnerability in talking about her loss of her father, and how current corporate models for dealing with grief are simply not sufficient.  

Is she a perfect person?  Nope.  BUT Jennifer will challenge almost all of the assumptions you had about "oil execs" and that's a lot for one person.

Have you heard that it's a hot market?  Or a "candidate's market"?  Are wondering why you're still looking for work despite all of these articles claiming a national labor shortage?  And what the heck is the "Great Resignation"??  How do we know it's a thing?

Answers to all of these questions and more have been investigated by the one and only Dr Kirsten Lee Hill, and are discussed at length.

To learn more about Dr Kirsten Lee Hill and why you should trust her when she says most of this is alarmist nonsense check her out here:

Its surprising how common the belief is that anyone with an executive role has it all figured out.  It's like we've decided that somewhere along the lines they got access to all the knowledge and answers for things that were relevant to their working world.  We see this with other podcasts and articles asking execs their opinions on things that have little to nothing to do with their area of expertise and yet behaving as if their response was gospel.  Not all of them are like this.  Some times, if you're really lucky, you get a remarkable person who is not only an expert in their area, but also willing to actively admit that they are still learning, still growing, and don't know a lot about a lot of things.  Mark Swarbrick is that guy.  As a driving force and creative leader in the technology arena Mark is a certifiable master.  He's also funny, and down to earth.  Which means that in this podcast alone you'll hear him say "I had no idea" about things more than once.  Always wanting to get better, Mark adds to his formidable array of skills by asking questions and listening.  He has a lot to say in this episode about what makes great tech managers, how he got to where he is, and more.

Want more Mark in your life?  Find him here:

When you think of a high ranking Product Manager at Amazon, what do you picture?  What if we narrow that image to be the PM in charge of automated customer service?  Now do you have an image?  If you didn't think of a goofy, sports crazed frat boy with an ability to talk to and charm anyone (and possibly inanimate objects... TBD) then you didn't get it right.  Meet Deven.  In many ways the least likely guy to be a high flyer in FAANG, and yet, somehow, EXACTLY what you'd expect.  Deven talks about his own path into the sought after space, and gives an honest, warts-and-all, account of life in Amazon.  After having a listen, what do you think?  Still eager to join?

To find out more about Deven you can find him here:

We've all been there - in a favorite restaurant or shop thinking "I love this place!" then you see the little sign that says "Franchise Opportunities Available".  You probably thought about it.  You might have done more than think about it.  For most of us that's where it ends.... BUT for some it's the beginning.  How do you know what options are out there?  How do you get started?  How much does it cost?  Do they always pay out?  So so many questions.  Enter Giuseppe Grammatico.  His FREE service gives you all the information you need to decide what will work for you in your situation.  During the episode he talks about his own origin story, dispels some myths, and drops some knowledge.

If you want to know more about Giuseppe and his work here's where to find him:

Over the last 40 years video games have come a long way.  Far from the children's toys that they started as video games are now big business, high tech, and a major marketing component for any number of industries (even Doritos has used them!). Dave Prout is an artist, creative, developer, and business professional who has grown and developed with the industry.  Starting with sector defining titles like Medal of Honor, Halo, and Call of Duty Dave has been on the front lines of many of the top grossing games of all time.  Just as games have continued to evolve, so has Dave.  He's humble, and people focused so this interview isn't going to be the usual brag-fest you get from industry titans of his pedigree.  Instead, its a down-to-earth conversation with a people centered business guy, and dad who just happens to have millions of diehard fans of his work.

If you want to learn more about what Dave's doing now you can find it here: