The Local Woman

Join us in an intimate exploration of the stories behind the compassionate and dynamic women at Reflections Psychotherapy in Gray, Georgia. This episode peels back the layers of professional titles, revealing the personal journeys, challenges, and triumphs of Alicia Gregory, Dania Collis, Katherine Holtzclaw, and Amanda Hood. These remarkable women have not only carved their paths in the mental health field but have also fostered a nurturing and supportive environment that champions mentorship, collective growth, and mutual respect.

Hear firsthand about the diverse passions that drive each therapist at Reflections Psychotherapy and how these passions shape their unique approach to therapy. From navigating the complexities of trauma to embracing the nuances of personal growth, each clinician brings a rich tapestry of experience and empathy to their practice. Yet, despite their varied specialties, they share a common goal: to support and uplift one another and their clients.

This conversation delves deep into how mentorship has played a pivotal role in their careers, offering insights into the mentor-mentee relationships that have inspired and propelled them forward. The women of Reflections also open up about maintaining their mental health amidst the demands of their work, providing a candid look at the strategies they employ to stay grounded and focused.

Tune in to discover the inspiring stories of these women, their collaborative spirit, and the collective mission that binds them together at Reflections Psychotherapy. It's a testament to the power of supportive communities in fostering professional and personal growth in the mental health field.

This episode features Pam Pinkston, whose journey from Macon's native daughter to a trailblazing advocate for inclusivity and nature's healing powers is nothing short of inspirational. Pam's connection to Macon, intertwined with her passion for hiking and the outdoors, led her to found Southern Queer Folk Hikes, a pioneering initiative focused on making the great outdoors accessible and welcoming for underrepresented communities.

Pam shares her vision for creating a space where everyone can experience the transformative power of nature, regardless of their background or identity. Through Southern Queer Folk Hikes, she has not only promoted physical wellness but also fostered a sense of belonging and community among hikers.

Join us as Pam discusses the challenges and rewards of her work, her commitment to environmental stewardship, and how reconnecting with her roots in Macon has enabled her to contribute meaningfully to the city's cultural and natural landscape.

Dive into the heart of Macon with Casie Trace, an artist, educator, and now, the proud founder of Artspace Macon. In this lively episode, Casie takes us through her colorful journey—from her early days as a student at GCSU to her adventures teaching art in China, and her ultimate return to Macon to breathe life into a dream close to her heart.

At Artspace Macon, located in the bustling Ingleside area, Casie is turning her vision of a welcoming, creative sanctuary into reality. It's a place where the young and young-at-heart come together to explore, create, and celebrate art in all its forms. Casie talks about her passion for making art accessible to everyone and how Artspace Macon has quickly become a cherished part of the local artistic scene.

Behind Casie's journey is the unwavering support of her family, whose encouragement has been as colorful and inspiring as the art she creates. She shares fond memories of her supportive network, emphasizing the joy and love that have shaped her path to success.

Tune in to laugh, learn, and be inspired as Casie Trace shares the story of Artspace Macon—a testament to creativity, community, and the enduring charm of coming home.

In this inspiring episode, we welcome Robin Calhoun, a beacon of resilience and change, whose story reminds us all that it's never too late for a second chance. Recorded around the New Year, a time synonymous with beginnings and reflections, Robin shares her profound journey from battling a 14-year drug addiction to becoming a proud business owner and a source of support for others through her homecare business, Robin's Helping Hands.

Robin's story is one of remarkable transformation. She opens up about her darkest times, where addiction took center stage in her life, leading to moments of desperation and a loss of self. Yet, it was in one of her lowest moments, during a church service on December 8, 2002, that Robin found the strength to ask for help, marking the start of her path to sobriety and ultimately, her new purpose in life.

Beyond her personal victory over addiction, Robin's decision to venture into homecare was sparked by a simple recommendation, leading to a realization of her passion for caring for others. Her business isn't just a livelihood; it's a testament to her dedication to giving back and making a difference in people's lives, driven by gratitude for her own second chance.

Join us as Robin Calhoun shares her insights on change, resilience, and the power within us to alter our circumstances. Her story is a powerful reminder that no matter how tough things may get, there's always an opportunity for renewal and to contribute positively to the world around us.

Dive into the captivating sound of Shy Company, a standout indie rock band from Macon, GA, where the spirit of 90s music lives on. Led by the dynamic duo of Kat and Kalez, Shy Company channels the essence of The Cranberries with their harmonious and powerful rock melodies. This episode explores how the band melds nostalgic grunge influences with contemporary themes of mental health and relationships, crafting songs that resonate on a deeply personal level.

Shy Company is not just about the music; it's about the energy and synergy between Kat and Kalez, whose onstage presence and offstage closeness embody the essence of girl power. Their performances at venues like The Hummingbird showcase not only their musical talents but also the strong bond they share, making every show an unforgettable experience for their audience.

Join us as we discuss Shy Company's journey, their unique sound, and the way their music touches on crucial issues, all while maintaining an electrifying presence that captivates listeners. Their story is one of creativity, resilience, and the power of friendship, offering a glimpse into the lives of two women who rock the stage and champion each other every step of the way.

Tune in to hear more about how Shy Company is making waves in the local scene and beyond, proving that great music, when paired with genuine connection and support, can leave a lasting impact.

Step into the world of Koryn Young, the guiding force behind Macon Experiences and the Executive Director of Storytellers Macon. This episode peels back the layers of Koryn's journey, focusing on her significant role in enriching the cultural and communal fabric of Macon, GA, since 2008.

With a rich background as a tour operator and event planner in Staten Island, NY, Koryn has seamlessly woven her skills into the heart of Macon, taking the lead in local favorites like the Magnolia Soap Box Derby and Bragg Jam Concert Crawl. Her dedication to fostering inclusive environments is evident in her work with the LGBTQ community, particularly through her partnership with Willow Cottage Weddings.

Beyond her professional life, Koryn's passion lies in storytelling. As Executive Director of Storytellers Macon, she amplifies the voices within the community, sharing diverse narratives that resonate with and unite us. Koryn's story is also filled with the joy of family moments with her granddaughter Adi, her partner Nathan, and her beloved dog Matilda.

Tune in as Koryn shares her insights on storytelling and its pivotal role in community building. Discover the experiences and passions that drive Koryn to make Macon a hub of creativity and connection.

Meet Samantha Clarke, a dedicated pharmacist, mother, and passionate advocate for local pharmacies. With a life rich in experience, from her beginnings in Box Elder, South Dakota, to her vibrant family life with her husband Jason, their two children, and two rescue dogs, Bash and Luna, Samantha brings a unique perspective to healthcare. In this enlightening episode, Samantha delves into the crucial role pharmacists play in patient care, highlighting the benefits of fostering strong relationships between patients and their local pharmacists.

Through her advocacy, Samantha sheds light on the challenges and obstacles patients often face with larger pharmacy chains and outlines the invaluable services provided by independent pharmacies like Robins Pharmacy, Bonaire Pharmacy, J & M Drugs, and the Medicine Stop. She passionately discusses the importance of community support for local pharmacies and addresses common misconceptions about pharmacy services, emphasizing customs and courtesies that can enhance the pharmacy experience for everyone.

Join us as Samantha Clarke champions the cause of independent pharmacies, offering insights into how they can lead to better healthcare outcomes and urging the Warner Robins community to embrace the personalized care they offer. It's a conversation that's not just about medicine—it's about building healthier, more connected communities.

Note: At the time of recording this episode, Samantha was expecting! We are thrilled to extend a heartfelt congratulations to Samantha and her husband, Jason, on the arrival of their newest family member. Join us in celebrating this joyous addition to their growing family!

This episode shines a light on Paige, whose recent move to St. Augustine marks the fulfillment of a 15-year dream for her and her family. Once deeply ingrained in Macon's community fabric through initiatives like the Napier Heights Food Co-Op and mental health advocacy, Paige has made a lasting impression. Though events and programs have evolved since her departure, the impact of her work endures, and her commitment to these causes remains unwavering. As Paige embarks on this new chapter, we're thrilled to support her journey and are eager to see how she'll continue to make a difference in her new community. Join us in celebrating Paige's past contributions and future endeavors, reminding us all of the power of passion and community spirit.

Note: This special episode was recorded just before Paige embarked on her beautiful new journey to St. Augustine, a dream long-held and now realized. As you listen, let's celebrate not only the legacy she leaves behind in Macon but also the bright future that awaits her. Paige's story is a testament to the power of dreams, community, and the endless possibilities that come with embracing change. We're honored to share this moment with her and look forward to the amazing ways she will continue to touch lives in her new home.

When I started this podcast my only goal was to highlight local women in the most authentic way—highlighting their passions, engaging the topics that bring them joy, and showcasing the talents that make each dynamic.

Quatoyiah is a film critic and writer who has worked for Turner Classic Movies and FilmStruck and has written under the moniker The Cinephiliac for over 10 years. Her work often focuses on diversity and representation as well as the film's historical context. Born and raised in Georgia, she now resides in Paris, France!

Today, I am grateful for the opportunity to highlight my best friend of over 20 years, Quatoyiah Murry, as we celebrate the release of her first book, " TCM Underground: 50 Must-See Films from the World of Classic Cult and Late-Night Cinema". As a lifelong friend and supporter, it is my honor to bring her first book to you and share a podcast episode that will always be near and dear to my heart! 

Purchase the book today!

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/TCM-Underground-Must-See-Classic-Late-Night/dp/0762480009/ref=asc_df_0762480009/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=598348701284&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=14825347534911415143&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9011251&hvtargid=pla-1661869164405&psc=1

Barnes and Nobles: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/tcm-underground-millie-de-chirico/1141004302?ean=9780762480005

Our week of Local Woman episodes is moving right along with another inspiring episode featuring, business owner, Joelle Konze! After working her way up the corporate ladder, Joelle and her husband decided to turn their family hobby, into a lucrative business. In the midst of the pandemic, as many businesses struggled to find their footing, Joelle and her husband, took the first steps toward their entrepreneurial dream. Just two short years later, their business Escape RV Rental has grown to include over 50 RVs that they deliver for family vacations and corporate events all over Flordia! It's been said that, if you "Find a job you enjoy doing, and you will never have to work a day in your life" and that's the quote that continued to play in my mind throughout this interview. Though Joelle was candid about the struggles of business ownership, her passion for the business and the clients they serve is obvious. If you've been waiting for a sign to schedule that family vacation, consider this the day! Check out Escape RV Rental today: https://www.escapervrental.com/

Yes, we were serious, a whole week of The Local Woman!

On today's episode, I had the opportunity to interview my friend and fellow podcaster, Angel Collins! As you would expect, when you get two podcasters together, no topic was off-limits and time was no concern! On Angel's podcast, In Front of the Telly, she and her cohost discuss everything from television to movies both new and old! With their engaging, thoughtful, and often passionate reviews, if you're a fan of television and film, this is the podcast for you! 

In addition to her podcast, we discussed her previous life as a loyal Maconite and her lingering influence on the writing, storytelling, and music scene. Following a dream from her youth, Angel relocated to Alaska, where she currently resides. Though Angel still has a love for all things local, she has found joy in quiet times, without the obligation of leadership, where she can enjoy her family and community, and of course, she still makes time to spend In Front of The Telly!

Check out her episode today!

As Season 2 comes to a close, we are celebrating with a week of Local Woman episodes! That's right, Monday-Sunday, you can check-in and find a new episode of The Local Woman.

We're starting this week, with the local songbird herself, Kelley Dixson! Since her return to Macon, she has worked tirelessly to bring music, theatre, art, and collaboration center stage! During the week we recorded this episode, she was dazzling the stage in a sold-out (NIGHTLY) Theatre Macon production of The Color Purple as Sophia. However, acting is only one of Kelley's many talents. In her role as a community organizer, she works with community groups and events, such as Bragg Jam to bring great events and musical acts to Middle Georgia. In her role as a musician, you can find her on stage at local hot spots such as JBA, channeling her days in New Orleans as a jazz singer. However, if you ask Kelley, the most important role she plays is that of mom. 

While you're enjoying your drive home or preparing your favorite meal for dinner remember to take The Local Woman with you!

The Local Woman features women like you and me, living, learning, and growing. Share this episode with yourself and a friend. 

May is Mental Health Awareness Month and on The Local Woman's social media sites, we will be sharing resources and events to encourage our listeners to prioritize mental health in their daily lives.

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, I was excited to chat with the founder and facilitator of Macon Mental Health Matters, Andrea Cooke, to discuss the growing number of mental health resources available right here in Macon-Bibb! Macon Mental Health Matters is a program that provides mental health counseling for both individuals and families, financial counseling, conflict resolution, and non-traditional mental health activities. These activities include yoga, pop-up gyms, training, and so much more, and all are offered in the community at no cost to the individual receiving the services. 

As a Maconite and a proud graduate of Central High School and THE Fort Valley State University, Andrea always speaks with her community in mind. While many speak of Macon as a community in peril, Andrea speaks of Macon as a community of hope. Today, when you tune into The Local Woman, slow down, relax, and take a well-deserved moment to yourself. 

After tuning in to this episode, you'll agree, that you deserve it!

On Episode 27 of The Local Woman, I interview Kim Aquamina. When we began The Local Woman, Kim was exactly the type of community member I desired to bring to the forefront. After a successful career at the Miami Herald, inspired by her father, Kim made her home in the rural community of Hawkinsville and brought the excitement and liveliness of the city with her. However, Kim isn't missing the city! She has embraced life in the country and truly made Hawkinsville her home. Upon arriving in Hawkinsville, Kim made her home at the Newberry Foundation and has embraced her role as the Director of the Food Pantry. In this episode, she shares her journey to Hawkinsville and her passion for the community she calls home! 

Check out her episode today!

On this episode of The Local Woman, I sit down with one of my favorite co-hosts Robert Grant, to interview Rhonda Tandy-Pearson, the CEO and Executive Designer of Belle Ame Designs.

In 2018 when she embarked on her entrepreneurial journey, she knew she wanted to create a brand that embodied her belief that, “your size does not define you or what you can do”. This desire led Rhonda to begin designing custom t-shirts with encouraging affirmations that highlighted her love for fashion, while still providing clients with a comfortable t-shirt that could be styled for both work and play!

Rhonda is a dedicated entrepreneur who takes pride in the creation of her designs. Though she launched her business selling custom t-shirts online, Rhonda has expanded the Belle Ame Designs brand to include in-store retail sales throughout Middle Georgia and Atlanta, GA.

In 2020, Rhonda began holding classes to share her craft with budding and existing entrepreneurs. Her commitment to the growth of her business allowed her to gain the knowledge necessary to help others develop and grow the businesses they desire. In 2021, Rhonda walked away from her corporate job of six years and began sharing the education, training, and experience she learned while growing her business with other entrepreneurs, as a Business Coach!

As Rhonda continues to grow her brand and expand her services, she remains prayerful and purposeful in the pursuit of her goals. With the addition of Blessed by Belle Ame Designs, a line of custom t-shirts that highlight both strength and faith, Rhonda continues to showcase her determination, while always acknowledging that “With God, all things are possible.” (Matthew 19:26).

Tune in and check out her episode today!

As the owner and host of Bankedoutt Radio Show, Andreas Cooke needs no introduction! From hosting the #1 podcast in Middle Georgia to partnering and supporting a number of local initiatives Andreas Cooke believes in supporting and promoting businesses in our community! Check out his episode to learn more about his podcast and his ongoing work in the community! 

Tune in and subscribe to his podcast here: http://www.bankedouttradioshow.com/

Wedding bells are ringing for this week's local woman, Eden Jackson, and her fiance, Ryan Stykel!

Attorney Eden Jackson is a Macon, Ga native with a love for travel! Although she loves her hometown, she has always felt most at home in the skies. As an undergrad, Eden studied at Georgia State University in Atlanta, received her Law degree at Florida Coastal School of Law in Jacksonville, Fl, and completed her legal coursework by receiving her Legal Masters from Brunel University in London.

Now, Eden is embarking on her next big adventure, starting her own law firm! The Law Office of Eden A. Jackson, a trademark and business law firm. When Eden is not practicing law, she is taking care of her energetic infant son, Gabriel, gardening and traveling the world.

Check out her episode to learn more about Eden and why trademarks are important to establishing ownership over your brand, name, or logo!

Thanks for tuning in to your new favorite podcast The Local Woman! That's right, your favorite local podcast is back and ready to share more incredible interviews with local women like you and me!

We are kicking off Season 2, with a fun and heartwarming episode we recorded over the summer with Atlanta-based interior designer Susie Prince!

Susie Prince, owner of Susie Mae Design is a residential interior designer based in Atlanta, Georgia. Prior to launching her own business, Susie worked in corporate graphic and package design before accepting a position on HGTV’s Emmy Award-winning “Elbow Room.” In 2015, she and her husband Victor were contestants on FOX’s design and build reality show “Home Free”, hosted by Mike Holmes. Her experience working in television taught her that the personalization and relationship-building aspect of the business was essential for her. Design should not be trendy or “in vs out”, it should be authentic and personal. Susie loves to blend old and new, color, pattern, texture, and shine to create spaces that are dynamic, timeless, and unique.

Co-founder of Macon Black Tech and HamTECH Solutions, Christèle Parham shares her love of Macon and her experience cultivating community in the tech and innovation space. As a consultant and the founder of two companies, Parham recognizes that building something is hard and often isolating. As a board member, organizer, and regular presenter at Macon Startup Christele is a force for positive, inclusivity, and good in the Middle Georgia community. 

In this episode, we discuss her commitment to creating a safe and inclusive space for entrepreneurs and creatives and discuss her journey to Middle Georgia! Parham is dedicated to building a healthy local ecosystem for Black creatives through non-traditional events and networking. She works to push others to nurture their genius and become their best, full selves. In this episode, we discuss her commitment to creating a safe and inclusive space for entrepreneurs and creatives and discuss her journey to Middle Georgia!

Attorney Eden Jackson was born and raised in Macon, Georgia.  Being from a family of generations of Maconites, Eden’s mother encouraged at a young age to move away, to gain perspective. Eden went to undergrad in Atlanta at Georgia State University, Law school in Jacksonville, Florida at Florida Coastal School of Law, and received her Legal Masters from Brunel University London.

Attorney Eden recently hung her shingle and started The Law Office of Eden A. Jackson, a trademark and business law firm. When Eden is not practicing law, she is taking care of her energetic infant son, Gabriel, gardening and traveling the world.

This week Eden was a guest speaker at Macon Startup Week and spoke about the importance of patents and the importance of safeguarding your business. Patents are important because they can help safeguard your invention or business. Check out this episode to learn more! Also, be on the lookout for more about Eden during season 2! When we re-release her episode for a full week's feature on The Local Woman!

In today's episode, we chat with local entrepreneur Kaitlynn Kressin about the highs and lows of entrepreneurship while, discussing the ongoing fortitude needed to withstand difficult times and challenges as a business owner. Running one business can be difficult, but running multiple successful businesses is no laughing matter! Yet Kaitlynn still finds daily joy in the operations of her various businesses!

As a Mercer graduate with ties to the Middle Georgia community, when Kaitlynn began her ascent into the world of entrepreneurship she knew downtown would be the anchor for her growth. Whether you've stopped into Just Tap'd or Fall Line Brewing for a cold pint, or sat down to enjoy a delicious meal at Ocmulgee Brew Pup, Kaitlynn's impact can be seen all over Downtown Macon.

Like many of the restauranteurs we've highlighted this week, Kaitlynn and her husband saw a need for more culinary and social options for young adults and families in the area. In addition to their desire to fill a culinary and social need, much thought and time were put into the development and design of each space. This commitment to the creation of their space can be seen in the design, branding, and aesthetic of each location.

Check out her story and stay tuned in for more inspiring stories from entrepreneurs throughout the community.

Noting a gap in the Macon market, owner, Tina Dickson, filled it with pizza. Known as “Our Lady of Pizza”, Tina has remained the driving force behind Ingleside Village Pizza since its doors opened. Great service, great pizza, salads, and sandwiches, and great atmosphere is exactly what the bustling pizzeria delivers. The “Macon-style” pizza, described as medium thickness, hand-tossed, and loaded generously with fresh toppings, is created using dough made on premises each day.

You can't call yourself a Maconite if you've never enjoyed an iconic slice from IVP. From the eclectic decor to the phenomenal staff, Tina Dickson put Macon on the map with her signature in-house dough and her funky laid back style.

Customers love their famous signature pies, though they are happy to build their own, too. Completing the delicious experience is a vast selection of domestic or imported beer or wine. You will often find Tina’s friendly face in the familiar service window ready to deliver a Macon-style slice with a smile!

Check out our interview with Tina Dickson and learn how an idea that spawned on Super Bowl Sunday of 1992, turned into a lasting legacy! 

http://littleguidemacon.com/directory/good-eats-and-good-drinks/ingleside-village-pizza.html

Richie Jones is the proprietor of the Downtown Grill. He purchased the restaurant in April of 2008 from the founder of the restaurant, Tom Noelke. Richie is a Macon native who is a graduate of First Presbyterian Day School. After leaving Macon, Richie attended the University of Georgia in Athens and obtained two Bachelor's degrees from the Terry College of Business. Athens is where Richie became interested in the restaurant industry. He worked his way up in different restaurants and taverns. After college, he continued his dream as he moved to Breckenridge, CO where he skied and worked at the resort in two of their food and beverage establishments. After a year in the mountains, he decided to move to the beach and obtained a job as a bartender at the Sea Island Beach Club. When the summer ended, Richie was ready for bigger and better things and was hired as a manager for a restaurant just across the causeway, called Spanky's. Richie continued to manage this restaurant for the next 5 and a half years, before moving back to Macon. He is proud to call Macon his home and loves seeing all of the great things that Macon is doing downtown. 

Check out our special bonus episode, featuring our unboxing of the SUMMER LOCAL LOVE BOX!

That's right, Rachelle granted the ladies of The Local Woman access to an exclusive sneak peek of the Summer Local Love Box! Stay tuned all week to learn about the artists and makers featured in the summer box. Then head right over to https://www.the567center.org/locallovebox to grab your summer box today!

On this episode of The Local Woman, Sierra and Jade chat with Local Woman, Rachelle Wilson! 

Rachelle is a proud Maconite and advocate for all things local. Currently serving as the Vice President of Mission Advancement & Chief Development Officer for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Georgia, she is able to connect her passion for her community with her experience in non-profit and with youth development in the Peace Corps. She also founded and curates the Local Love Box, a quarterly subscription box that features locally made items. Though she finds herself wearing many hats, writing about what she loves over a cup of hot tea will always be her preferred way to pass the time.

If you're a lover of community and want to learn more ways to engage local businesses and makers, this is the episode for you! 

Also, tune in tomorrow for a special bonus episode, featuring our unboxing of the SUMMER LOCAL LOVE BOX! 

That's right, Rachelle granted the ladies of The Local Woman access to an exclusive sneak peek of the Summer Local Love Box! Stay tuned all week to learn about the artists and makers featured in the summer box. So, be sure to check out the bonus episode, then head right over to https://www.the567center.org/locallovebox to grab your summer box! 

In Episode 20 of The Local Woman, Sierra and Jade have an uplifting conversation with American soprano, Jasmine Habersham! As a Macon native, she credits the foundation of her performance experience to participating in local community theatre and to encouraging mentors and family! We loved talking to her about her path from the local stage to Opera stages all around the world! 

She most recently performed the role of Pip in Moby Dick with Utah Opera, Pamina in The Magic Flute with Opera Theatre of St. Louis: Opera on the Go, Papagena in Die Zauberflöte with Cincinnati Opera, Yum-Yum in the The Mikado with Kentucky Opera, Esther in Intimate Apparel with Cincinnati Opera Fusion, and Clara in Porgy and Bess with Utah Festival Opera. She has also performed the roles of Papagena in The Magic Flute and as an Apparition in Macbeth at The Glimmerglass Festival. 

A finalist in the Lotte Lenya Competition, she is well-versed as a crossover artist in opera and musical theater. She has performed the roles Edith in The Pirates of Penzance with Atlanta Opera, Susannah in The Musical: Tintypes with Janiec Opera Company, and Pearl in Morning Star with Cincinnati Opera Fusion. She has won numerous awards including 2nd Place in the 2018 Southeast Regional Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions, The Strauss Award in the National Orpheus Competition, the John Alexander Memorial Award from University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, and the Young Artist Guild Award from Central City Opera. Ms. Habersham has participated in several esteemed young artists programs including The Glimmerglass Festival, Central City Opera, Kentucky Opera, and the Brevard Music Center. 

As a graduate student at the University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music, Habersham performed the roles Despina in Così fan tutte, Norina in Don Pasquale, Mrs. Julian in Owen Wingrave, and covered the role of Zerlina in Don Giovanni. She received her Bachelor of Music degree in Vocal Performance at Shorter College and her Master of Music and Artist Diploma from the University of Cincinnati College- Conservatory of Music. If you're a lover of music and theatre, don't miss our interview with this talented Local Woman!

On this episode of The Local Woman, Sierra chats with Local Woman Neisha Himes! 

After leaving a toxic and abusive relationship in late 2012, Neisha Himes began telling her story years later via her gift of spoken word. Known to the poetry community as “Beautiful Dizaster”, Neisha has featured on many stages and to date, uses her talent as a method of bringing awareness. In August 2016, she founded G.R.O.W. Foundation (Girls Recognizing Our Worth), a 501c3 non-profit assisting domestic violence survivors with rebuilding their lives after abuse. To learn more about victims’ rights and navigating through the legal system, Neisha served as a Victim/Witness Advocate for the Norfolk Commonwealth Attorney’s Office and a Domestic Violence Paralegal for the Chesapeake Commonwealth Attorney’s Office. In April 2020, she joined the Newport News Police Department as their Domestic Violence Outreach Liaison, playing a vital role in the agency’s newly implemented domestic violence program.

Since creating G.R.O.W., Neisha has received several notable accolades for her incredible advocacy work and relentless activism. In 2016, she was recognized by Investigation Discovery (in collaboration with Peoplemagazine) as their “Inspire A Difference: Hero of the Month,” and in 2017, was also featured on PBS channel’s “Virginia Currents.” In 2019, she was the recipient of YWCA’s “Woman of Distinction Award”, as well as the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence “Voices in Action-Survivor Activist Award”. In October 2020, she had the honor of being interviewed by Essence magazine in recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Most recently, in April 2021, she was recognized by WTKR Channel 3 News with the “People Taking Action” Community Award.

Neisha’s unwavering dedication to ending domestic violence and her passion for helping others is the driving force behind her motto “from pain to purpose”.

On episode 17 of The Local Woman, Sierra chats with Local Woman, Laura Thomason! A Missouri native, Laura lived around the West and Midwest before moving to Georgia in 2006.  She is the Provost Fellow for International Programs and Professor of English at Middle Georgia State University.  She also leads comprehensive internationalization at MGA, administering study abroad programs and international student services. She is passionate about sharing her love of humanities and embraces the opportunity to help students expand their cultural competency and understanding through travel. 

Laura and her husband Daniel Boudreault are dancesport athlete members of USA Dance Greater Macon Chapter 6059 and compete at the Silver level in American Smooth and American Rhythm styles. Laura has danced as a "pro" in the Alzheimer's Association Dancing Stars of Central Georgia event since its inception in 2012.

Check out episode 17 today and learn why humanities remain important in our new digital landscape, where you can connect with the dance community in Middle Georgia, and listen to a couple of nerds chat about their favorite pens!

Episode Graphic: photo credit Jeopardy! Productions, Inc.

On Episode 16 of The Local Woman, Sierra is joined by guest host Amber Skiles, to interview Amber Pierce Valentine! 

Amber is the owner of Star Stuff Yoga & More, The Valentine Cottage, and is a singer/songwriter in The Vineyard Band.

Star Stuff Yoga & More is a mobile yoga & wellness program that strives to create an inclusive, diverse, and accessible space for our community.  Star Stuff Yoga & More offers a mat gift program, chair yoga, and free or donation-based wellness events that honor the traditions of yoga.

The Valentine Cottage provides non-toxic, eco-friendly household items & beauty products in upcycled packaging at an affordable price.

Amber has a degree in Psychology with a minor in Music from Clayton State University in Morrow, Ga, and is currently working toward certification as a Registered Behavior Technician in the field of ABA Therapy.

Amber has been married to her wonderful husband, William Valentine, for almost one year.  Together they have two dogs, love living in downtown Macon and enjoying the outdoors together.  One of their favorite local spots is Amerson River Park, where they love to walk the trails, swim in the river, and also happens to be where they got married.

Tune in to learn more about her work, passions, and where you can connect with her in the community!

You'll also meet guest host Amber Skiles and learn more about her upcoming podcast "Trash Talk with Amber" where she chronicles her journey to connect the people of Warner Robins with their trash. That's right trash! If you're passionate about recycling and conservation this is the podcast for you! Tune in to learn more!