Connect With Kate: Recent Episodes
Kate Connick
Welcome! I’m your host, Kate Connick. This podcast will serve as a space where together we can learn, build and grow with a goal of finding our happiest selves. Connect with Kate will cater to people who have many interests, like me, who are looking for the tools to navigate life. Get ready to embark on a new adventure where together we will expand our horizons exploring topics such as self-care, health, wellness, fashion, fitness and entrepreneurship. I cannot wait to begin this journey with all of you! Stay connected.
Join me for today’s inspiring and insightful conversation with Denielle Finkelstein, the co-founder and president of TOP, The Organic Project, a women-owned, 100% organic, biodegradable, hypoallergenic tampon and pad company. This episode is for the female looking to create a startup, the girl who’s getting her period for the first time, and those looking to become better informed about the eco-friendly products TOP has to offer.
Denielle and her co-founder, Thyme Sullivan, are mothers and cousins based out of Duxbury, MA, looking to empower women to make better choices, protecting both their bodies and the environment. After 22 years in fashion retail at Ann Taylor, Coach, Kate Spade and most recently the Chief Merchant at Talbots, Denielle decided to take the biggest risk both personally and professionally and walked out of her job at the height of her career. In this episode, we discuss her transition from the corporate world to starting her own company. She shares advice for young entrepreneurs looking to start new endeavors and create impactful careers. Denielle is someone who gives back, having donated over 325,000 TOP period products to those in need. We also discuss the term "fem-care" and how she works to shatter the stigma around women’s periods.
“ Our purpose is to raise the standard of femcare and bring transparency to this category, and to empower this next generation of women and girls to change the conversation about periods.” - Denielle Finkelstein
For more information visit toporganicproject.com and follow @toporganicproject on Instagram.
Welcome to an all new episode of Connect with Kate! Today’s guest is writer, director, and producer Castille Landon. Castille and I met through Fear of Rain, a film she wrote and directed, starring Madison Iseman, Katherine Heigl, Israel Broussard and Eugenie Bondurant and my father, Harry Connick, Jr.
I’ve always been inspired by Castille's many talents. In this conversation, I get to pick her brain about the film industry as a whole, her process as a writer, tips for success and her personal experience as a young female in a male dominated industry. Plus, the inside scoop on what it was like working with my Dad!
This conversation is meant for the person looking for helpful and tangible advice when it comes to starting a career in the film industry.
Today I had the privilege of interviewing Lauren Layne, a 27-year-old down-to-earth and kind-hearted model from Joplin, Missouri. She’s worked with Victoria’s Secret, Ralph Lauren, Abercrombie & Fitch, Nordstrom, and Macy’s, to name a few of the brands she’s modeled for. She’s also been featured in publications such as ELLE Italy and GQ. In addition to her successful modeling career, Lauren started a swim line, Lauren Layne Swim in 2018, which has been featured in Cosmopolitan, Sports Illustrated, Lucy’s, Daily Mail, Inquisitr, Fashion Gone Rogue, Hamptons, and Bellazon. In today’s episode we discuss her all-female factory in Bali and the motivation behind her line and upcoming collection, plus what she has in store for her new showroom in Palm Beach. We cover a range of topics from her work as a model, how she handles any negativity in the industry, epic shoots and getaways with her modeling friends, relationships, and spirituality. To add to her busy schedule, Lauren is also in the process of planning her wedding! Join us to find out what her favorite part of the process has been. For more on Lauren and her line, follow @laurenlayne and @laurenlayneswim laurenlayneswim.com
When I was 17 years old, I was diagnosed with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, a hormonal disorder causing enlarged ovaries with small cysts on the outer edges. Women with PCOS produce higher-than-normal amounts of male hormones, which can result in irregular periods, infertility, depression, anxiety excessive hair growth, weight gain, and oily skin or acne. Women with PCOS have both a hormonal imbalance and problems with metabolism, which affect their overall health and physical appearance.
Given September is PCOS Awareness Month, I’ve invited on Monica Reagor, the leader of Funding for PCOS Awareness Association to
speak about her personal journey and role in PCOSAA.
In this episode, we discuss several topics ranging from nutrition to mental health, including how to deal with anxiety and depression. Monica shares resources provided by PCOSAA and their particular approach to helping those affected by this syndrome.
As someone who used to drink soda and have it as a daily part of her life, Monica shares how she feels after eliminating It from her diet and how drinking seltzer water has made her feel better overall. She shares different holistic approaches to taking care of both mind and body, in addition to medications that have worked best for her.
PCOS can be difficult to explain to our loved ones, which is why PCOSAA has created ways to help start a dialogue. Both communication and self-awareness are big parts of having PCOS. Monica’s team finds it important to vocalize how we are feeling with friends and family on the daily.
If you are dealing with PCOS or want to learn more about having a hormonal imbalance to help those around you, tune into this episode. Please share it to help raise awareness and spread the word about resources provided by PCOSAA as 1 in 10 women are affected by this syndrome. For more information, visit https://www.pcosaa.org
21 year-old model, Sofie Rovenstine reminds me why I started Connect with Kate as she is someone I connect with on many levels. She inspires me when it comes to leadership in all aspects. She strives to encourage those around her to become the best versions of themselves through faith and confidence.
Sofie is grounded and down to earth. She is all about spreading positivity, focusing on what’s important in life. One of her goals is to help others improve their body image. She stresses how important it is to “stay true to yourself” and “evaluate what’s important to you”.
Back and forth between NYC and Tennessee, Sofie Rovenstine discusses her unique lifestyle and how she cherishes her time with family when she’s home.
We discuss difficulties when it comes to wanting to fit in, struggles with social media, and navigating high school. She shares advice for people who feel like outsiders and ways to develop confidence. We also discuss the role faith has played in her life, God’s plan, and growing her character.
Sofie is an Enneagram 3 with a 2 wing, sometimes showing traits of a seven as a spontaneous person.
This episode features one of my closest friends Ryann McIntire who I’ve known since I was a kid. We met over the summer scooping ice cream at a local shop down the road and have been friends ever since. In this episode, Ryann opens up about her chronic illness, mediumship, and health and wellness journey. When Ryann was diagnosed with Lyme disease a few years back, her entire life changed. She had to make life altering decisions in order to stay healthy and alive. Ryann has been through more than anyone I know when it comes to her health. Not to mention her positive outlook and ability to persevere during immensely stressful times. Ryann has taught me many life skills, especially when it comes to mental toughness. She is currently studying to become a certified health coach to help others who are facing similar illnesses. She continues to push herself mentally and physically on the daily and inspires those around her to look at life through a different and more positive lens. When she’s having tough days she thinks about what is happening for her versus what is happening to her. Tune in to learn more about Ryann’s inspiring health story and her ability to connect with spirits through her natural gift.
Happy Thursday! Tune into today’s episode to learn more about my sister, Georgia Connick. Georgia and I are 17 months apart. She was born on April 17th and she’s an Aries. 17 is her lucky number and she’s very into numerology and spirituality. Meditating at least once a day for 25 minutes, Georgia finds herself tuning into her mind, body, and spirit to discover her purpose and better her being. She picks up on signs from the universe and spirits to connect with a higher power and figure out her path. Georgia is driven, determined, and patient throughout her manifestation journey. She’s come a long way and continues to grow and learn. Listen into this episode if you want to learn more about georgia, our relationship, and her spiritual awakening.
From dropping out of college at 19 years old to moving to a new city and living on a blow up mattress with no furniture for a year, Mehka Vohra continuously paves her own way as a 24 year old tech entrepreneur. From a young age, Mehak always found herself building things from legos to her own app in high school. After freshman year, she visited San Fransisco to meet up with some friends when she discovered the Thiel Fellowship, which is a conference and program that gives 30 people 100k to drop out of college. When she was surrounded by likeminded people at the conference, she realized she didn’t need a college degree to succeed as an entrepreneur. About a year later she made the decision to move to an unfamiliar city, San Fransisco and founded her company, On Delta: A growth marketing school that’s free until you’re making over $40k/year. Mehak’s been featured in Forbes, AdWeek, and Marie Claire magazine. We discuss leadership in a work environment, how to overcome challenges as an entrepreneur, and what it takes to turn a dream into a reality.
For more information on Mehak and her company, check out her Ted Talk and website listed below:
OnDelta Website: https://www.ondelta.io/
TedX Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ixW8NtDjAqE&list=PLlwuFh7VhNzawFspHEaeOYSX4bpTEEtjV
Today I get the opportunity to chat with Amy GiaQuinto, the owner of Personalized Fitness Solutions (PFS) in Harwich, MA. PFS is a personal training studio that specializes in functional training and plant-based nutrition education. I’ve personally known Amy since I was 12 years old and have been training with her ever since. In this episode you will learn about Amy’s interest in combining sound biomechanics and fitness. We discuss her plant-based lifestyle and the positive effects it’s had on her both mentally and physically. She breaks down the importance and meaning of becoming glute dominant versus quad dominant. Amy also explains how to stabilize our lower backs by moving through our hips. Amy is all about core strength. Tune in to hear from my fitness coach and incredible friend, Amy GiaQuinto.
Tune in today to learn more about Brendan Brazier, Co-Founder and Formulator of Vega Protein, bestselling author of the Thrive book series, creator and host of the Thrive Forward web series, former pro Ironman Triathlete, and two-time Canadian 50km Ultra Marathon Champion. Brendan's fitness journey started back in Vancouver, Canada when he was in highschool. At the age of 14, he would train before and after class, discovering the impact fitness had on his mind and body. As a vegan advocate, Brendan recently launched his latest subscription vegan meal company, FireRoad, alongside Co-Founder David Brown for endurance training. In today’s episode we discuss sleep cycles, how to build a nutrient dense vegan bowl, fermented apples as the main ingredient for probiotic alcohol, and steps towards living a healthy and fulfilled life. Brendan gives us a glimpse into his bicoastal life in both Venice, California and New York. He shares his favorite trails and where he finds himself to be most productive and creative. Listen in to hear more about his latest business ventures and his tips for long term success!
Elina Fuhrman is the Chef and Founder of Soupelina, a best-selling author, and cancer survivor. Her personal war against breast cancer has inspired many and led to the creation of her business, soupelina.com. Elina is a sought-after talent in Hollywood with celebrity clients including Gwyneth Paltrow and Jessica Alba. She is passionate, knowledgeable, and above all, she is authentic. Elina lives in Los Angeles with her two daughters and enjoys soaking up the California sunshine and meditating on the beach. Elina is the mother of actress, Isabelle Fuhrman who appeared in Episode 12: How to Set Micro Goals and Embrace Opportunity. Tune in to learn more about her incredible, motivating, and inspirational story and to get advice and tips on how to boost your immune system during COVID-19.
Tune into an all new episode of Connect with Kate to learn about actress, Alexxis Lemire. Alexxis is a homebody and someone who enjoys a routine and self care. She shares her beauty secrets and explains why she appreciates being outside in nature.
Join us to get to know Alexxis and her story and how she was able to transition from being a competitive cheerleader to an actress.
Alexxis recently starred in The Half of It on Netflix and openly shares how she connected with her character, Aster Flores on a personal level. After having a difficult time in high school, Alexxis shares an important message to listeners and especially to those who are currently feeling misunderstood or alone. She values and encourages authenticity and individuality, given she is someone who stays true to herself in all aspects of life.
Join me today for an open conversation with model and nutritionist, Mariah Strongin. We discuss setting goals, creating content, and our overall relationship with social media. Mariah delves into becoming a nutritionist and creating the Mariah Method, which encompasses nutrition, and workouts for a healthy lifestyle. She shares advice on how to live a balanced lifestyle rooted in self-love. Mariah is all about taking the first step. If you’re looking to feel motivated to grow and expand your horizons, this episode is for you.
Tune in to learn from Army Reserve Colonel, Suzanna Jamison, who is just returning home from Queens Hospital Center in New York City where she served on the Task Force as the Medical Operations Officer, performing both administrative duties and direct patient care. We dive deep into her leadership and clinical duties as Colonel in the Army. She shares her successes, whiles collaborating with the New York hospital systems and what she is most proud of when it comes to her clinical operations section. As a psychiatrist, Suzanna gives tips and advice for staying mentally healthy in quarantine. Suzanna is optimistic, insightful, knowledgable, and continuously demonstrates heroism and leadership.
In this very special episode, my dad, Harry Connick takes over and interviews me. I think he even learned a few new things. Tune in!
Today's episode is all about navigating the modeling industry and remaining confident and true to yourself throughout the process, regardless of your career. Cho Seward was originally scouted by IMG models as a teenager, before signing with Fusion Models in NYC. Cho recalls manifesting goals, since her high school years when making the lacrosse team to now walking in Marc Jacob's NYFW show. Cho explains her process of manifestation and how she's been able to follow passions, something she's learned from her parents at a young age. She shares tips on how to become scouted as a model, how to stay proactive when work is slow, and how to turn your Instagram account into a working portfolio. Recently, Cho's taken on a new venture after launching her own company, Cho Granola. This product is inspired by a hardy granola she once tasted while traveling through Paris and she's since tried to create a similar one that's vegan and made of healthful, organic ingredients such as nuts, oats, seeds, and vanilla. Tune in to learn more about how Cho continues to strive to become the best version of herself as a model and aspiring entrepreneur.
Happy Thursday everyone, I’m excited to announce today’s guest, Rhys Athayde (@rjathayde) the Chief Experience Officer and Founding trainer of DOGPOUND. Rhys has overcome immense challenges and obstacles, such as severe asthma, scoliosis, food allergies, and poor eyesight and ever since has been motivated to share the positivity and mental toughness to help others do the same. As CXO, he is able to enhance both client and trainer experience in all DOGPOUND locations. He is also able to strategize and coordinate special projects, activations, and partnerships to further DOGPOUND's global reach.
This episode is all about self-care, self-love, fitness, nutrition and perseverance. Rhys shares practical ways to stay both mentally and physically healthy during this time of quarantine, in addition to what it’s like building a business from scratch. As a self-made entrepreneur, he shares his journey as someone who used to work maintenance in return for a gym membership when he couldn’t afford one as a student in college to now being the founder of one of the biggest celebrity gyms in the world.
Rhys shares insight on training Victoria Secret models and shares what the “the secret” really is. Tune in if you’re looking to better yourself through a holistic approach to health and wellness. If you’re looking for motivation to workout at home or are an aspiring entrepreneur, this episode is for you. We openly and honestly discuss body image, self-confidence, and the importance of taking care of your body from the inside out. As an entrepreneur, Rhys shares his story of turning his passion and dreams into a reality and the steps it takes to bring a business to life.
In today’s episode, 23-year-old actress and writer, Isabelle Fuhrman opens up about her childhood and how she started working at a very young age. Isabelle grew up in Atlanta, Georgia and moved to Los Angeles when she decided she wanted to pursue a career in acting. She discusses the process, her family’s support, and how her parents willingly made sacrifices in order for her to pursue her dreams. Isabelle is down to earth, adventurous, and believes in bettering others, in addition to herself. Isabelle shares some of her most incredible life experiences in this episode, beginning with a time she was able to partake in a silent meditation prior to turning 21. She shares what 10 days of complete silence taught her and how she was able to look inward and learn more about herself. She has an epiphany when discovering the importance of embracing her youth.
Isabelle shares one of her favorite bonding experiences while running a “no rule” race from Santa Monica Pier to Las Vegas in a team of eight women by foot. She formed a connection during this journey, not only with the other female runners, but with the volunteers and everyone else involved in the race. She shares her vulnerability, openness, and trust when faced with having to pee on the side of the road and crying in front of complete strangers. This 50 hour trip consisted of helping her teammates through injuries to appreciating the smaller things in life like a sandwich. She runs us through (pun intended) the process of this race and how it ultimately became an experience of a lifetime.
Isabelle also shares her love for her mom and their strong, unique connection. Leading up to Mother’s Day, she’s been helping her train for a race called “Run for Mom”. Together they will be running six miles side by side, encouraging and pushing each other. She believes in the importance of creating personal micro goals and helping those around her do the same through the power of working together and embracing new opportunities.
Jaimie is open, honest, genuine, and incredibly inspiring - someone I look up to in many ways when it comes to her ability to persevere and create the life she wants and deserves. She is driven, motivated, caring towards others, and someone who is admired both on and off the screen. This conversation brings to light Jaimie’s strong desire to connect with others, her adventurous spirit, and loving soul.
Having no formal training as an actress, Jaimie shares how she was able to jump start her career through the use of her natural abilities and how she continues to learn by doing. She mentions how she thinks life is about learning as you go and through the use of sympathy and empathy, she has been able to take on incredible roles in both film and television.
After receiving multiple injuries while filming Blindspot, Jaimie describes her experience as something she doesn’t regret. From a torn ACL and MCL, to a concussion, broken nose, and dislocated shoulder, Jaimie is the definition of strength. After experiencing a ruptured appendix, resulting in septicemia, (bacteria in the blood), Jaimie found herself in an unexpected, life-or-death situation, which ultimately turned into a life-altering wakeup call.
Tune in to learn about her take on manifestation and intention, her strong connection to the metaphysical world, and how she is tuned into nature. Jaimie is a light and continues to pave the way for others, making the impossible... possible.
Interested in learning how to live a more loving and blissful life? Join me today for a transforming episode with meditation, breathwork, and yoga master teacher, Ulises Calatayud.
Originally from Mexico, he worked as an engineer before experiencing a tragic loss that changed his life entirely. In today’s episode, Calatayud shares this painful experience that ultimately prepared him to be more open.
Soon after his loss, he had an encounter with someone who dramatically changed his perspective on life and who made him into the man he is today. Ulises went into a “state of bliss” after experiencing what he says to be “the deepest pain any human being can feel.” During this encounter he discovered his purpose after being told that he has something very important to do. After having a successful career in the corporate world, he was able to shift his life into more of an adventure. Everything changed: his relationship with his wife, family, health, and work were all transformed entirely. He shares how “when we change, everything else changes.” Tune in today to learn more about Ulises story and why he tells people he loves them even if they are strangers. This episode is especially inspiring for those who are workaholics, feeling anxious, coping with stress, or have experienced a trauma. Learn how to give more and in return, receive.
Tune in today for a motivating podcast with enthusiastic trilingual communications entrepreneur, Candice Miller. Candice has a background in client services, marketing, PR, events, and experience in running a successful yoga brand startup. Having lived in Singapore, Australia, and Mexico City, Candice is highly accustomed to working in fast-paced and dynamic cultures. In this episode, she shares how she moved to New York City without ever visiting before and how she continuously takes big chances to live her life to the fullest. She is practical, realistic, and full of adventure. Candice shifted her career to incorporate health and wellness and has changed many lives for the better through her work. She discusses how she recently transitioned her business into an entirely online platform as a result of COVID-19 and shares her ability to pivot, persevere, and help others during difficult times through her work. Tune in for tips on starting a business as a young female entrepreneur!
Tune in today for an inspiring and informative conversation with my friends at Shop Jackie, a boutique style subscription box company out of Bradenton, Florida. Founder and CEO Amber Duncan and daughter, Sabel Bezet inform us on how to successfully run a female-founded business and the steps it takes to start a company from scratch as an entrepreneur. Sabel, head buyer and stylist at Jackie, gives us the rundown of what a trade show looks like from a buyers perspective and the types of brands that catch her eye. Amber and Sabel discuss their mother-daughter dynamic in the office setting and how they strongly believe in communication. They also share their unique way of hiring new members onto their team and what it takes to be a Jackie girl. Amber and Sabel believe in quality over quantity and thrive by empowering other women and by being entirely themselves. Join us for a fun conversation where we discuss the ins and outs of running a business and how to follow your a path of individuality and uniqueness.
Spirituality, God, religion, entertainment, and acupuncture - just a few of the topics guest, J Harrison Ghee, and I talk about. Join me today for a powerful conversation with an incredibly talented and loving soul that will inspire you to pursue your dreams and life purpose, no matter what obstacles you face along the way. J shares his story and what it was like when he first discovered his calling to entertain on Broadway. He shares how he was able to persevere when those in his life didn’t understand. He put trust in himself and his relationship with God to guide him during difficult times and as a result has turned into a broadway star and legend. J starred in Kinky Boots as the infamous Lola and has been working on the role of Andre Mayen in Mrs. Doubtfire on broadway. He is also known for his role as Kwame in Raising Dion and High Maintenance TV Series. J is a powerhouse and an inspiration to many when it comes to pursuing a goal and being your most authentic self along the way.
Join me and astrologer, Cody Channel, for a conversation on manifestation and ways to take full advantage of this opportunity!
As a certified reiki master, holistic, health practitioner and and guided meditation facilitator, Cody uses her knowledge of the stars to share the ways we can fully connect with ourselves and the universe through ritual and practice. Cody shares the significance of dreams in addition to navigating healing tools such as crystals and sage.
If you are new to spirituality and want to know more about this incredible topic, take the time to listen to this episode as an opportunity to learn the basics. For those of you tuning in who are further along in their spiritual journey, use this as a chance to expand and add to your practice.
Learn to connect with your higher self and how to make time for you. This can all be done with the use of only a few materials!
Connect with Kate is all about connecting with those around us and our higher beings to become the happiest versions of ourselves. Let this new moon in Taurus to bring in more love, light and positivity.
It’s time to set aside time for self-love and self-care and to appreciate our self worth and what makes us unique!
Join me for an insightful conversation with my cousin, Sara Sears who is the owner of her personal training company, SS Fitness.
She’s an ACE personal trainer who is TRX and Spin certified. She has a bachelor of science degree in fitness and health promotion with a minor in nutrition from Samford University.
We discuss how sports have positively influenced her as a former D1 volleyball player and how it led her ultimately to become a trainer and nutrition health coach.
She shares her experience as a 3 time bikini fitness competitor and how she takes care of both her mind and body.
Tune in to hear how Sara is adjusting to life in quarantine as a fitness instructor and how she is altering her reality in the most productive, healthy way possible. Sara shares tips and advice on healthy eating that is accessible and something worth keeping up with!
Join me today for a conversation with 22-year-old actress, Madison Iseman! Discover how insightful, optimistic, inspirational she is both on and off the screen.
We discuss what it's like growing up in her hometown of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, her experience of moving to LA to pursue an acting career as a young adult, and how she's handling every day life in isolation with her boyfriend, Spencer Sutherland - and get the inside scoop of what it’s like shooting a scary movie - and the creepiness that comes with it!
Join my dad, Harry Connick Jr. and me on Easter Sunday for a conversation on love, forgiveness, and the importance family, faith, and friends. In our conversation, Harry unpacks the phrase "social distancing" during this pandemic and how in his opinion, this time has connected us and brought us closer together as a family.
We also discuss his approach to nutrition and how his healthy lifestyle changes have positively impacted him and his work as a whole. He shares with us practical tips when it comes to eating well and how his new approach has benefited him in ways far beyond just a physical aspect: "If I feel good, I'm much more available to you, to your sisters, to mom. It's just an all around better place to be, so I'm really happy I was able to commit to it."
No one can deny we are living in very uncertain times, yet when faced with it, how do we truly navigate it?
Join me and spiritual guide Niamh Cronin for a powerful, inspiring, and heart opening conversation on how to overcome adversity and find stillness in the midst of uncertainty. Niamh takes us on a deeper journey to contemplate and reflect on what this time really means and how we can use these moments as an opportunity to truly awaken our gifts and natural human potential. There are many “aha” moments and moments of inner revelations throughout this conversation.
Join me for an all new episode of Connect with Kate! Today I’ll be discussing mental health and how to develop a healthy balance and relationship with social media, alongside #HalfTheStory nonprofit creator and founder, Larissa May. Larz openly shares her personal story and her past involvement in the fashion industry as a blogger before discovering the other half of her story and becoming a mental health awareness advocate. She now spends her time as speaker, event curator, and overall leader in the mental health world. She shares practical and realistic tips on how to become a successful entrepreneur, while incorporating personal strengths and stories into her own work. Larz shares advice when it comes to getting creative and staying mentally healthy during COVID-19.
Welcome to the first episode of Connect with Kate! Today we have special guest, actress, producer, and author, Austin Highsmith. Tune in to hear practical tips and advice when it comes to having a healthy marriage and ways to be the most productive while working from home. Austin opens up about her children’s book, “The Miracle Tree”, that encourages faith and hope when facing illness.
Welcome to my introductory Connect with Kate Podcast where I’ll share with you my story. I hope that while you’re tuning in, you feel a connection with me as your host and become ready to embark on a new journey of spirituality, health, wellness, self- care, fashion, entrepreneurship - just a few topics we’ll be discussing. This is a space to let your mind expand and to feed your soul with positive information. Together let’s learn, build, and grow to become our happiest selves. And most importantly, connect.