Isn't It Lovely? Podcast: Recent Episodes

Isn't It Lovely? Podcast

Join "Isn't it Lovely?" hosts Rachel and Tracy as they welcome special guests for uplifting conversations, inspiring listeners to look for the lovely in all things!

“You are so capable of so much more than what you even realize.”

After surviving tandem bouts of Influenza B, Tracy and Rachel have rallied and are thrilled to usher in a fresh dose of inspiration by welcoming both springtime and Sioux Falls-based entrepreneur (and local fan favorite!) Terra Koupal to the show! Terra shares her journey to becoming an accidental influencer after welcoming two sets of twins (and celebrating the nuanced joys and challenges of in vitro fertilization) and explores the ways that the power of connection through family, business, and friendships can be used to comfort, encourage, empathize, and help tap into a greater life purpose. Terra and Rachel consider the significance of timing, particularly when goals and dreams take longer and require more effort, while Tracy and Terra discuss the importance of balancing vulnerability with boundaries.

Episode Mentions:

Terra Koupal’s Instagram: @the.house.of.twins
Terra Koupal’s Website
Pigeon 605: “My 605: Terra Koupal”
Lou Lou and Company
Elegant Mommy
Ignite Fitness Studio
Jami Nato

What Are You Loving:

Terra: Headway App, Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick, @thesmallshoppe.sd
Rachel: You Could Make This Place Beautiful: A Memoir by Maggie Smith
Tracy: Rent the Runway

Disclosure: We only recommend products we use, and all opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links that add no additional cost to you; we may earn a small commission.

The content of this podcast episode is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare professional or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have.

It’s a celebration of health and nourishment quite literally from farm-to-table as Rachel and Tracy welcome regenerative farmer Roy Thompson to the show to discuss the healing power of food! With candor and sensitivity, Roy shares the ways his personal struggles with chronic illness, exhaustion, and discouragement led him to explore functional medicine, alternative healthcare, and nutrition, ultimately achieving a healing so transformative that it inspired a reimagining of his own farming and ranching practices. Roy and Tracy examine ways to find balance between traditional and functional medicine, while Rachel and Roy consider practical tips for accessing fresh organic food in a way that won’t break the bank. As Roy explains the connection between our bodies and the land in his explanation of regenerative farming practices, Tracy fondly evokes The Lion King’s “Circle of Life” song to Rachel’s delight.

Episode Mentions:

Roy Thompson’s Website: https://tripletbrand.com/
Roy Thompson’s Instagram: @triple.t.brand
Roy Thompson’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tttbrand1
Understanding Ag: “Where Human Health Begins: One Farmer’s Story of Regeneration”
Tri-State Livestock News: “Destination Regeneration: Film Shares South Dakota Ranchers’ Story”
Mayo Clinic
The Institute for Functional Medicine
Regenerative Agriculture
Gabe Brown
David Brandt
Ray Archuleta
Misfits Market
The Lion King’s “Circle of Life”
Josiah’s Coffeehouse, Cafe, and Bakery

What Are You Loving:

Roy: Jocko Willink, Origin Products, Jocko Fuel, Headway App
Rachel: Shutterbean’s Coconut Maple Granola
Tracy: Roy’s recommendations of Dr. Axe and Dirt to Soil: One Family’s Journey into Regenerative Agricultureby Gabe Brown

This episode is brought to you by Flyboy Donuts! Flyboy Donuts is a Sioux Falls-based family-owned donut shop with 4 locations in Sioux Falls featuring a variety of fresh donuts and rolls daily. Use code Lovely20 now through February 6, 2024 when you order online at flyboydonuts.com to get 20% off all orders over $20.TW: This episode contains a reference to miscarriage.How sweet it is for Tracy and Rachel to be joined by bestselling cookbook author and creator of the wildly popular blog How Sweet Eats, Jessica Merchant! In this vibrant conversation, Jessica explores the ways she has maintained a consistent, authentic voice in her work, as well as the keys to honoring and protecting her creativity and passion through a framework of boundaries and structured routine. Jessica and Tracy consider the evolution of a brand and the creation and marketing of content through an ever-expanding number of platforms; Rachel and Jessica discuss the finer points of connecting with readers and followers - and the surprising ways Jessica has provided comfort and nurturing outside of her delicious recipes. Rachel and Tracy convince Jessica to add South Dakota as a stop on her next book tour before the conversation unapologetically transforms into an impromptu book club meeting. Episode Mentions:Jessica Merchant’s Website: https://www.howsweeteats.com/Jessica Merchant’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/howsweeteats/Jessica Merchant’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/howsweeteatsSeriously Delish: 150 Recipes for People Who Totally Love Food by Jessica Merchanthttps://amzn.to/3OqItjoThe Pretty Dish: More than 150 Everyday Recipes and 50 Beauty DIYs to Nourish Your Body Inside and Out: A Cookbook by Jessica Merchanthttps://amzn.to/4biW9a2Everyday Dinners: Real-Life Recipes to Set Your Family Up for a Week of Success: A Cookbook by Jessica Merchanthttps://amzn.to/4blayTmBlock scheduling Here’s to Us by Elin Hilderbrand:https://amzn.to/47ZwwIsHow Sweet Eats & Eli Hilderbrand Collaboration:https://www.howsweeteats.com/2016/06/exciting-news-a-collaboration-with-elin-hilderbrand/Winter Street series by Elin Hilderbrand:https://amzn.to/4bdZ2chThe Pioneer Womanhttps://www.thepioneerwoman.com/The Secrethttps://amzn.to/3vVwjZIWhat Are You Loving:Jessica: Page the Shop Kindle covershttps://www.instagram.com/page.theshop/Kindle Oasishttps://amzn.to/3SiIIhJRachel: The Sentence by Louise Erdrich; https://amzn.to/3SlEJkEBirchbark Bookshttps://birchbarkbooks.com/; Arizona Goat Yogahttps://goatyoga.com/Tracy: The Skinny Confidential Him + Her Show Episode 648: Dr. Michael Gervaishttps://tscpodcast.com/episodes/dr-michael-gervais/The First Rule of Mastery: Stop Worrying about What People Think of You by Dr. Michael Gervaishttps://amzn.to/3OlZ8Vs

CW: Adult LanguageIt’s a reconnection revolution as Rachel and Tracy welcome psychologist, speaker, and author Dr. Jody Carrington to the podcast for a dynamic conversation about counteracting humanity’s loneliness epidemic with empathy, emotional regulation, and Ram Dass’ simple, but powerful observation, “we are all just walking each other home.” Tracy and Jody examine specific ways to help various communities, from teachers and healthcare responders to law enforcement officers and children, lay down their trauma and work through it in healthy ways - and why it’s essential to seek context and exchange asking, “What is wrong with you?” for “What happened to you?”. Jody and Rachel grapple with the significance of having constant access to loved ones through technology and social media, as Jody explains why it’s vital to stop trying to fix our loved ones’ problems, instead simply acknowledging the broad spectrum of necessary human emotion, from sadness and anxiety to anger and fear - not just happiness. Everyone considers the mystique of the true crime podcast, citizen journalism, and the international phenomenon that is Taylor Swift. Episode Mentions:Dr. Jody Carrington’s Website: https://www.drjodycarrington.com/Dr. Jody Carrington’s Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/drjodycarrington/?hl=enDr. Jody Carrington’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drjodycarringtonDr. Jody Carrington’s Podcast: Everyone Comes from Somewherehttps://www.drjodycarrington.com/podcast/Feeling Seen: Reconnecting in a Disconnected World by Dr. Jody Carringtonhttps://amzn.to/47DRjkTKids These Days: A Game Plan For (Re)Connecting With Those We Teach, Lead, & Love by Dr. Jody Carringtonhttps://amzn.to/3HmaF3mTeachers These Days: Stories and Strategies for Reconnection by Dr. Jody Carringtonhttps://amzn.to/3Hix4hZNew Surgeon General [Dr. Vivek Murthy] Advisory Raises Alarm about the Devastating Impact of the Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation in the United StatesWalking Each Other Home: Conversations on Loving and Dying by Ram Dass and Mirabai Bushhttps://amzn.to/3HijfjoEveryone Comes From Somewhere Podcast Season 1 Episode 12: “How Trauma Shapes Our Lives”https://shows.acast.com/everyone-comes-from-somewhere/episodes/how-trauma-shapes-our-livesDr. Peter LevineDr. Gabor MateDr. Bruce PerryWhat Are You Loving:Dr. Jody Carrington: Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s Relationship; Harper’s Bazaar: “Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s Full Relationship Timeline”https://www.harpersbazaar.com/celebrity/latest/a45301082/taylor-swift-travis-kelce-full-relationship-timeline/Rachel: Who Killed JFK? Podcasthttps://www.iheart.com/podcast/1119-who-killed-jfk-127000428/Tracy: Writer Jessica Reed Kraus @houseinhabithttps://www.instagram.com/houseinhabit/?hl=en

There’s no business like show business as Tracy and Rachel sit down with Grammy Award-winning artist, writer, and producer Genevieve Goings to discuss her celebrated career spanning a starring role in Disney Junior’s Choo Choo Soul to teaching and coaching a new generation of dreamers to embrace their authenticity and discover their unique voices. Genevieve reflects on how her upbringing as the daughter of musicians demonstrated that following her passion was a viable career path and explores the ways that simply showing up as the best version of herself generated unique opportunities - including how her career began with her not landing a role. Genevieve and Rachel consider the importance of representation and Genevieve’s relationship to being described as a “responsible role model”; Tracy and Genevieve discuss the value of empowering kids to develop into entrepreneurial entertainers through the use of technology and confidence in their own ideas and branding. Genevieve invites listeners to celebrate the season by checking out her Very Merry holiday album, while Rachel dedicates Genevieve’s “Crazy for Christmas Lady” song to Isn’t it Lovely?’s resident Queen of Christmas, Tracy. Everyone returns to the late 1990’s in the What Are You Loving? segment for a vibrant celebration of a full, yet manicured, eyebrow and a fabulous pair of patent leather Mary Jane platform pumps.Episode Mentions: Genevieve Goings’ Website: https://www.genevievegoings.com/Genevieve Goings’ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/genevievegoingsGenevieve Goings’ Facebook: Genevieve Goingshttps://www.facebook.com/genevieve.goingsGenevieve Goings’ YouTube Channel: GenevieveGoingshttps://www.youtube.com/c/genevievegoingsAlphabet Rockershttps://www.alphabetrockers.com/Jimmy Goingshttps://jimmygoings.com/Choo Choo Soulhttps://disneynow.com/shows/choo-choo-soulGenevieve Goings’ Holiday Album: Very Merryhttps://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_lbpF3dt6Zv2Ywqi9wvEjbIwGdR3FkGSgIWhat Are You Loving:Genevieve: The Money with Katie Show Podcast; https://podcast.moneywithkatie.com/Pinterest; Open AI/Chat GPT; her adorable son; microbladingRachel: Steve Madden Mingle Mary Jane Platform Pump; https://shorturl.at/epKPXGenevieve’s extended familyTracy: Gemineye Studio’s Microbladinghttps://www.gemineyestudio.com/

Rachel and Tracy are honored to welcome Janelle Campbell to the show for an honest, hopeful conversation centered around drug and alcohol addiction and recovery. Currently a Loved One Coach at Face It TOGETHER (a non-profit organization that provides confidential, peer coaching for all those impacted by addiction), Janelle explores her motivation for giving up her previous career to devote herself to being the empathetic resource for others that she herself needed at the start of her journey. She also shares her own lived experience of addressing addiction in her own family and the life-changing intervention that led her to where she is today. Encouraged by the mantra "don’t waste the pain", she explains how Face it TOGETHER uniquely approaches addiction and and urges listeners to remember there is always hope for wellness, healing, and recovery for those experiencing addiction - and that loved ones can regain their sense of peace and joy, even in the midst of chaos and uncertainty. Face It TOGETHER’s Website: https://www.wefaceittogether.org/Face It TOGETHER’s Instagram: @faceittogetherFace It TOGETHER’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wefaceittogether/Sioux Falls Sidewalk Arts Festivalhttps://www.washingtonpavilion.org/event/sidewalk-arts-festival-2024What Are You Loving:Janelle: South Dakota Magazinehttps://www.southdakotamagazine.com/Jorgenson Kraut and Pickleshttps://www.facebook.com/groups/104289523441/Tracy: Mary Ruth’s Liquid Morning Multivitaminhttps://amzn.to/3T7sgD4Rachel: Delamu Sushi Making Kithttps://amzn.to/46ET40rThis episode is brought to you by Ignite Fitness Studio! Ignite is passionate about creating a space where everyone feels safe to bring their authentic selves, celebrating the beauty of diversity and believing that positive change must start from within! Check out Ignite at ignitefitness.studio or the MindBody App!The content of this podcast episode is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your mental health professional or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have.

Prepare for a breakthrough as Tracy and Rachel are joined by licensed therapist, author, speaker, and coach Jason VanRuler to celebrate healing and healthy futures through a discussion of his new book Get Past Your Past: How Facing Your Broken Places Leads to True Connection. Through highlighting his own bouts with trauma, addiction, and healing; Jason offers listeners practical first steps when seeking therapy and explains the importance of facing, naming, and dealing with pain and grief. Jason and Tracy unpack current mental health trends, including the complex relationship between mental health accounts on social media and clinical diagnoses, as well as the conversation around hot topics such as narcissism. Rachel and Jason explore the importance of taking risks to pursue and nurture genuine human connections versus unhealthy dynamics of hero/rescuer/victim roles. Jason candidly discusses the “vulnerability hangover” that results from writing a book; Rachel and Tracy continue to quote Jason back to himself and extend the interview countless times with “one last question”.Episode Mentions:Jason VanRuler’s Website: https://www.jasonvr.comJason VanRuler’s Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/jason.vanruler/?hl=en)Get Past Your Past: How Facing Your Broken Places Leads to True Connection by Jason VanRulerhttps://amzn.to/49SkPWqNarcissisim https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/narcissismBass Weejuns Men’s Shoeshttps://www.ghbass.com/men/view-all/weejunsWhat Are You Loving:Jason: Florida/traveling somewhere warm; Experiencing Friendship with God: How the Wilderness Draws Us to His Presence by Faith Eury Chohttps://amzn.to/3MNwNXtTracy: Blurry Creatures Podcast; https://www.blurrycreatures.com/Annie F. Downs That Sounds Fun podcasthttps://www.anniefdowns.com/Rachel: Stay Near Organization https://staynear.co/

“It’s not how you fall, but it’s how you get back up.”Rachel and Tracy are thrilled to welcome entrepreneur and former administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration Linda McMahon to Isn’t it Lovely? for the ultimate conversation about resilience, creating opportunities, the dignity of work…and a little something about transforming World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) from an idea dreamed up at a kitchen table into a multinational public company. With grace and candor, Linda discusses the ebb and flow of entrepreneurship, including a brush with bankruptcy that included car repossession and a house auction in the midst of her second pregnancy, while celebrating the power of perseverance and the passion to rebuild new dreams. Linda also details the series of events that led to her path in politics and her sincere desire to make a difference, as well as the importance of understanding a life calling and reinventing opportunities. Linda and Tracy underscore the importance of women mentoring one another and honestly wanting each other to succeed, while Rachel and Linda explore what it means to “balance being out of balance” when it comes to work and family. Everyone agrees body-slamming is not exclusive to a WWE match, but is rather a recurring activity amongst our own children at home.Episode Mentions:Linda McMahon, 25th Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Associationhttps://www.sba.gov/person/linda-mcmahonLinda McMahon Instagram: @sbamcmahonLinda McMahon Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lindamcmahon/World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE)https://www.wwe.com/WWE & UFC Merger https://www.espn.com/wwe/story/_/id/36066332/endeavor-ufc-wwe-merger-2023-explainedWomen’s Leadership Livehttps://womensleadershiplive.com/Sacred Heart University Women Can Have it All Serieshttps://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20140403005881/en/CORRECTING-and-REPLACING-Sacred-Heart-University-to-Launch-%E2%80%98Women-Can-Have-It-All%E2%80%99-Series-Hosted-by-Linda-McMahonWhat Are You Loving:Linda: Family and life, especially spending time with grandchildren; English Mastiffs; her visit to South Dakota; Rachel OglesbyRachel: New Directions Down Syndrome Associationhttps://newdirectionsdsa.com/Tracy: Shop Dog Boutiquehttps://shopdogboutique.com/

Tracy and Rachel are so grateful to welcome counselor and co-founder of Victus Counseling and Nutrition Services Faith Carlson to the show for a sensitive and nuanced conversation centered around eating disorder recovery. Faith compassionately provides framework and illustrations to better comprehend the impact and prevalence of eating disorders, including a broader understanding of the spectrum of behaviors and their place in overall mental health and wellness. In addition to her local work, Faith also consistently advocates on a national level to remove barriers to care, while emphasizing that hope and healing are always possible. Faith and Rachel explore ways to support loved ones facing this journey and the importance of simply believing their lived experiences, even if those experiences can be difficult to understand; Tracy and Faith discuss the power of language surrounding food and movement, particularly as it pertains to children and parenting. Everyone celebrates the power of a great partner and why we all need a handler at one time or another. Episode Mentions:Victus Counseling and Nutrition Services Website: https://www.victusrecovery.com/National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD) Website: https://anad.org/National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders Eating Disorder Statistics: https://anad.org/eating-disorders-statistics/ACUTE Center for Eating Disorders and Severe Malnutrition by Denver Healthhttps://www.acute.org/Body Dysmorphic Disorderhttps://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/body-dysmorphic-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20353938Health at Every Size: The Surprising Truth About Your Weight by Linda Baconhttps://amzn.to/3ZOoLTiFriends Pivot Scenehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L_PWbnHABsMWhat Are You Loving:Faith: Business partner and co-founder Lauren Cornay, especially her inspiration, joy, and ability to do the impossibleRachel: This Must Be the Place: Following the Breadcrumbs of Your Past to Discover Your Purpose Today by Jami Nato; Jami Nato’s Instagram: @jaminatohttps://amzn.to/3ZRY9B5Tracy: Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact Carpet Cleaner Shampooerhttps://amzn.to/3RTBBxU

They’ve gone country! Dust off your boots and don the rhinestones to join Tracy and Rachel as they welcome country musician and philanthropist Trey Taylor to the show! Billed as the youngest African-American in country music history when he showed up on the Nashville scene at age 16, Trey shares how he fell in love with traditional country music (and its grande dame Dolly Parton) at the tender age of eight. This affinity led to the passion, discipline, and drive that resulted in a storybook ending of being signed to Dolly’s own producer by the time he was 16 years old. Trey explores the ways his signature style and faith in his dreams sustained him during years of bullying and misunderstanding, while emphasizing the importance of both respecting and entertaining an audience. Trey further explains how in the midst of a rigorous 300-show year upon graduating from high school he determined that 10 percent of his shows would be devoted to raising money for worthy causes, making philanthropy a cornerstone of his career. (Local listeners are invited to join Trey on Thursday, September 28, 2023 for An Intimate Evening with Trey Taylor to benefit anti-human trafficking organization Call to Freedom.) Trey and Rachel agree that sometimes you should meet your heroes, while Tracy and Trey celebrate the mash-up of culture and style and that all people really need are “three chords and the truth”.Trey Taylor Website: http://www.treytaylormusic.com/Trey Taylor Instagram: @treytaylorofficialTrey Taylor Facebook: Trey Taylor MusicIntimate Evening with Trey Taylor Event (A Benefit for Call to Freedom)https://calltofreedom.org/events/intimate-evening-with-trey-taylor/Call to Freedom Website: https://calltofreedom.org/Call to Freedom Instagram: @calltofreedomsdDolly PartonRonnie MilsapGlen CampbellKenny RogersJohnny Cash

This episode is brought to you by Ignite Fitness Studio! Ignite is passionate about creating a space where everyone feels safe to bring their authentic selves, celebrating the beauty of diversity and believing that positive change must start from within! Check out Ignite at ignitefitness.studio or the MindBody App!

“These kids…we need to give them a voice…if we’re talking about empowering them, we’ve got to let them have a say so in it.”

In a first for the podcast, Isn’t it Lovely? literally races after Boys and Girls Clubs of the Sioux Empire’s Bradyn Medrano (in a restaurant, wearing Kentucky Derby hats) to book him on the show to discuss his amazing work with area youth! Serving as the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Sioux Empire’s Teen and Outreach Director (as well as partnering with the Minnehaha County Regional Juvenile Detention Center), Bradyn shares the importance of building trust with youth through consistency, attention, and positive reinforcement. Drawing on his own experiences as a kid growing up with diverse talents and interests who didn’t fit a specific mold, as well as a lack of invested role models, Bradyn explores his calling to devote his life to recognizing youth needing resources and attention and equipping them to reach their fullest and brightest potential. Celebrating local partners such as GreatLIFE, Vanguard Hospitality, and local sports teams, this episode is a call to action to view all youth with a heart of compassion no matter what behaviors or context we may find them.

Episode Mentions:

Boys and Girls Clubs of the Sioux Empire Website: https://www.bgcsiouxempire.org/

Boys and Girls Clubs of the Sioux Empire Instagram: @bcgsiouxempire

Boys and Girls Clubs of the Sioux Empire Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BGCSiouxEmpire

Bradyn Medrano Afterschool Professional Appreciation Week Spotlight https://www.facebook.com/sdafterschoolnetwork/photos/a.157377198055067/1642961692829936/

Boys Town https://www.boystown.org/Pages/default.aspx

GreatLIFE https://joingreatlife.com/

Vanguard Hospitality http://www.vanguardhospitality.com/#welcome

What Are You Loving:

Bradyn: Father’s Day with his daughter and seeing her smile; working out with his nephew and watching his confidence soar; seeing kids experiencing genuine joy and fun

Tracy: Electric Scooter for Kids https://amzn.to/3YgoMPc

Rachel: YMCA Camp Leif Ericson https://siouxfallsymca.org/camps/

This episode is brought to you by Ignite Fitness Studio! Ignite is passionate about creating a space where everyone feels safe to bring their authentic selves, celebrating the beauty of diversity and believing that positive change must start from within! Check out Ignite at ignitefitness.studio or the MindBody App!

CW: This episode contains sensitive subject matter, including conversation around intimacy and sexual health.

The content of this podcast episode is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your mental health professional or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have.

“The goal is to have a feeling of wholeness…it’s about mind, body, soul - just that overall sense of wellness. When we feel good about ourselves - sexually, lovingly - we can conquer the world.”

Rachel and Tracy are thrilled to be joined by Dr. Laurie Landeen for an enlightening conversation all about women’s intimacy and sexual health! Passionate about women’s health and wellness, Dr. Landeen shares what inspired her to pioneer Sanford Women’s intimacy clinic and reveals the ways intimacy isn’t solely about sexual intercourse. With candor and sensitivity, Dr. Landeen remains committed to compassionately removing barriers of shame and isolation to help her patients address concerns including decreased sexual desire, inability to orgasm, painful intercourse, and more in order to help them embrace physical, mental, and spiritual wholeness. Dr. Landeen and Tracy explore the importance of respectful, open communication about intimacy with children and adolescents in order to prevent misconceptions and create a strong foundation of self-esteem - including why saying “no” could be your best future “yes”; Rachel and Dr. Landeen acknowledge the importance of responding to vulnerability with safety, trust, education, and resources. Rachel is delighted to learn that Dr. Landeen has delivered over 5,000 babies, amounting to a medium-sized South Dakota town and Tracy reveals two of those babies were her own and credits Dr. Landeen for the gift of her family of five.

Episode Mentions:

Laurie Landeen, MD - Sanford Women’s https://www.sanfordhealth.org/doctors/laurie-landeen

Molly Kuehl, DNP, APRN, CNP - Sanford Women’s https://www.sanfordhealth.org/doctors/molly-kuehl

Sanford Women’s Intimacy Clinic https://news.sanfordhealth.org/womens/sexual-health-intimacy-clinic/

MED Magazine: Ob/Gyn Laurie Landeen, MD: Breaking Down Barriers to Intimacy https://www.midwestmedicaledition.com/articles/obgyn-laurie-landeen-md-breaking-down-barriers-to-intimacy

Let’s Talk About Intimacy by Lori Walsh, South Dakota Public Radio Interview https://listen.sdpb.org/health/2019-07-03/lets-talk-about-intimacy

Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/genitourinary-syndrome-of-menopause

International Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health (ISSWSH) https://www.isswsh.org/

Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret 2023 Movie https://amzn.to/3PWbTaV

Judy Blume Essentials Boxed Set https://amzn.to/3O0x6hc

Judy Blume Teen Collection Boxed Set https://amzn.to/3NZANDO

What Are You Loving:

Dr. Laurie Landeen: her life with her husband and soulmate, Neal.

Rachel: Judy Blume Forever Documentary

Tracy: Daily Clean Food and Drink

Judy Blume Essentials: Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret; Blubber; Deenie; Iggie's House; It's Not the End of the World; Then Again, Maybe I Won't; Starring Sally J. Freedman as Herself

It’s an unbeatable trifecta of energy, entrepreneurship, and encouragement as Tracy and Rachel welcome beloved local business owner and fitness instructor AshLeigh Cook to the podcast! AshLeigh shares how her lifelong love of physical activity led her to join a friend at the hot yoga classes that quite literally changed the trajectory of her life when the studio owner witnessed her passion and talent and urged her to pursue teacher training. AshLeigh explores the importance of physical activity and how it can be efficient and joyful, as well as the careful balance of celebrating health while changing the conversation around fitness culture to be more supportive and expansive, focused on general wellness and how a body feels versus how it looks. AshLeigh and Tracy outline the path to the creation of Ignite Fitness Studio during the height of a worldwide pandemic, while Rachel and AshLeigh discuss AshLeigh’s vision for a safe environment led by staff who nurture, empower, and serve the members well. Tracy confesses to a correlation between her most brilliant ideas and the endorphins resulting from yoga sculpt classes, while Rachel proposes AshLeigh produce and sell her own line of essential oils after the interview’s lighting round of questions skew heavily toward the cleanliness of the studio and the scent of its celebrated cold towels.

Episode Mentions:

AshLeigh’s Instagram: @ashbcook

Ignite’s Website: https://ignitefitness.studio/

Ignite’s Instagram: @ignitesiouxfalls605

Ignite’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IgniteSiouxFalls605/

Perler Beads https://amzn.to/3XCm9H5

Third Place https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Third_place

Snuggie/Wearable Blanket https://amzn.to/435iMtx

What Are You Loving:

AshLeigh: Summer and the special moments she’s been having with people

Tracy: Collapsible Travel Cooler Bag https://amzn.to/3NSr1EU

Rachel: Romantic Comedy by Curtis Sittenfeld https://amzn.to/4384cBk

Perler Beads Assorted Multicolor Fuse Beads for Kids Crafts, 11000 pcs

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“I just want to be the one that says ‘yes, you can’…especially if it was a dream planted on your heart. It is a vision; it is God saying ‘you can do this!’”

Encouragement takes center stage this week as Rachel and Tracy welcome designer, entrepreneur, podcaster, and coach Rebekah Scott to the show! Appropriately christened The Encourager by her eponymous podcast, Rebekah brings her signature inspiration to the conversation, providing personal stories and practical tips for achieving balance and harmony between work and home, making dreams come true in the process. Rebekah explains the importance of time blocking and use of the 1% rule, while exploring the notion of seasons and taking the time to pause. Tracy and Rebekah discuss the value of writing one’s own obituary as a tool for setting and achieving goals; Rachel wonders if an empty chair at the table should be reserved for everyone’s favorite cheerleader, Bob Goff.

Episode Mentions:

Rebekah Scott’s Website: https://shoprsd.com/, designyourownpurse.com, 1948leather.com

Rebekah Scott’s Instagram: @shoprsd

Rebekah Scott’s Facebook: Rebekah Scott Designs

The Encourager Podcast https://www.encouragerpodcast.com/

The Encourager Academy https://www.encouragerpodcast.com/academy

Equipped to Execute by Rebekah Scott https://www.encouragerpodcast.com/offers/L87vL8FY/checkout

Bob Goff https://www.bobgoff.com/

Throne Publishing Group https://thronepg.com/

Undistracted by Bob Goff https://amzn.to/3NaDbrc

What Are You Loving:

Rebekah: It’s okay to just be in a season, such as winter, and enjoy it without revamping everything in our lives

Rachel: Daisy Jones and the Six Limited Series on Amazon Prime https://amzn.to/3P9hb2n

"Daisy Jones and the Six" by Taylor Jenkins Reid https://amzn.to/3N6ODnk

Tracy: Dakota Spirit Cheer Gym https://dakotaspirit.com/ Riley Katz

Daisy Jones & The Six: A Novel

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Sioux Falls-based entrepreneur and philanthropist Matt Paulson joins Isn’t it Lovely? this week to explore the intersection of business, faith, and community! Tracy and Rachel take copious notes as Matt shares his thoughts on everything from pendulum shifts in the workforce and the onset of a content recession to post-secondary educational trends and the rise of AI. Matt reveals the ways his unexpected foray into a theological seminary degree influenced his leadership style and expounds upon the impact his faith has had on his personal integrity, as well as the ways he conducts business and invests in the community. Tracy gets the scoop on the empowering organization Startup Sioux Falls and divulges that she was once an audience member at the Jay Leno show and had a hilarious interaction with him (which Rachel tried in vain to find for the show notes, much to her chagrin); Rachel and Matt discuss the lasting joy of investing in projects that do good for people, versus the fleeting happiness of materialistic pursuits. The episode wraps up with the first unofficial meeting of the Brady Olson (beloved Brandon Valley High School teacher) Fan Club.Episode Mentions:Matt Paulson’s Website: https://www.mattpaulson.com/Matt Paulson’s Instagram: @mattpaulsonofficialMatt Paulson’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/matthewpaulson/Marketbeat’s Website: https://www.marketbeat.com/Startup Sioux Fallshttps://www.startupsiouxfalls.com/Kairos Universityhttps://kairos.edu/legacy-partners/sioux-falls-seminary/Faith Baptist Fellowshiphttps://www.faithsf.com/Dakota State University and MarketBeat Partner to Reimagine the Kirby Science Discovery Center’s Space & Technology Floorhttps://www.washingtonpavilion.org/node/3568What Are You Loving:Matt: Traffic: Genius, Rivalry, and Delusion in the Billion-Dollar Race to Go Viral by Ben Smithhttps://amzn.to/43t0VOdSuccession TV Serieshttps://amzn.to/3C0JBE7Rachel: Scout Tote Bagshttps://amzn.to/43t0VOdTracy: Rebekah Scott Designs; https://shoprsd.com/Brandon Valley High School;https://brandonvalley.k12.sd.us/bvhs/Brady Olson (Brandon Valley HS teacher)

Rachel and Tracy are delighted to welcome Char Green-Maximo, South Dakota Urban Indian Health’s Grant Project Manager, to the podcast for a conversation all about connection and culture! Char shares her passion for creating and promoting safe communities that inspire physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness, as well as embracing and offering opportunities for healing and lifelong learning. She shares the importance of leaning into culture and connection as safeguards against unhealthy or risky behaviors, while celebrating the renewal of positive energy and refreshment of spirit that comes from consistent interactions with one another. Char also expands on the comprehensive care and services provided by South Dakota Urban Indian Health, including cultural activities. Rachel and Char discuss ways to show allyship and support for the Native community; Char and Tracy initiate a call to action for the creation of a resource hub for Indigenous people in Sioux Falls. Episode Mentions:Char Green-Maximo’s Instagram: @misschargreenSouth Dakota Urban Indian Health Website: https://sduih.org/South Dakota Urban Indian Health Instagram: @sduih.clinicSioux Falls Native American Day Paradehttps://www.travelsouthdakota.com/sioux-falls/events/ethniccultural/sioux-falls-native-american-day-paradeGeneration Red Roadhttps://www.genredroad.org/National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Womenhttps://www.niwrc.org/restoration-magazine/february-2020/national-day-awareness-missing-and-murdered-indigenous-women-mayAin Dah Yung Centerhttps://adycenter.org/Isn’t it Lovely? Podcast Season 4 Episode 3: “Isn’t it Lovely to Live a Life of Service? Special Guest: Sioux Falls Police Chief Jon Thum”https://www.isitnotlovely.com/episodes/jonthumWynwood, MiamiWhat Are You Loving:Char: Juicinghttps://healthiersteps.com/10-amazing-benefits-of-juicing-raw-fruits-and-vegetables/Tracy: Hoover CleanSlate Plus Carpet and Upholstery Spot Cleaner/Stain Removerhttps://amzn.to/42wK104Rachel: Ronning Libraryhttps://www.siouxlandlib.org/

Isn’t it Lovely? is all about the Benjamins this week as moveHer Money founder Sarah Kurtenbach joins Rachel and Tracy to discuss her passion for teaching girls and young women all things finance! Sarah shares her own personal story of going from a broke college graduate with a $25 weekly grocery budget to a vice president of a Fortune 500 media company while still in her mid-20s. She examines the finer points of the quote “luck is where preparedness meets opportunity”, emphasizing the power of networking, follow-through, and openness to unique possibilities, and also reveals the pivotal moment she knew it was time to merge her passions for money and business to create online educational courses for girls and young women to learn about saving, investing, giving, credit cards, and more. Tracy and Sarah reminisce about stretching a budget utilizing 99-cent taco menus; Sarah and Rachel celebrate the way a true calling provides consistent energy. Everyone acknowledges the power of business clothing from Forever 21. Episode Mentions:Sarah Kurtenbach’s Website: https://www.moveher.money/Sarah Kurtenbach’s Instagram: @sarahkurtenbachmoveHER Money’s Instagram: @movehermoneyBlinq Media acquisitionhttps://abcnews.go.com/Business/gannett-buys-social-media-ad-company-blinq-media/story?id=17053864What Are You Loving:Sarah: Sparkling water with apple cider vinegar; Embrace Church Esther Serieshttps://www.youtube.com/c/iamembraceRachel: ManDate Podcast with Ben Krush and Ryan Konzhttps://www.instagram.com/mandatepod/?hl=enTracy: Ransom Church Adam and Eve: the Cost of a No Messagehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wbaKnjydfMw

Tracy and Rachel are thrilled to honor the changing seasons of spring and renewal by interviewing author Rebecca Mann Kelly! Rebecca’s new book Return to the Garden: Discovering God’s Original Design for Women offers a powerful invitation to all women to leave places where they are in bondage & captivity and be restored to their true identities. Part memoir, part call to action, Rebecca shares her personal experiences breaking free from damaging cycles of emotional abuse and people-pleasing to embrace the total freedom of being a beloved daughter of God. Encouraging a contextualization of modern misogyny, patriarchy, and feminism through the notion of the curse set forth in the Biblical book of Genesis, Rebecca reminds listeners that Jesus Himself offered a countercultural, radical form of love to both men and women. Rebecca and Tracy examine cycles of manipulation and control within unhealthy relationships; Rachel and Rebecca discuss with relief that God is not an angry authority figure waiting to punish, but rather a loving Creator who craves relationship with His children. All three women collectively lament Daylight Savings Time and the general lack of sleep that follows.Episode Mentions:Rebecca Mann Kelly’s Website: https://www.rebeccamannkelly.com/Rebecca Mann Kelly’s Instagram: @rebecca4jesusRebecca Mann Kelly’s Facebook: Rebecca.Mann.KellyReturn to the Garden: Discovering God's Original Design for Women by Rebecca Mann Kellyhttps://amzn.to/3moUsTZGenesis 1-3 New International Versionhttps://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=genesis%201-3&version=NIVIsaiah 61 New International Versionhttps://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah%2061&version=NIVA Brief History of Misogyny: The World’s Oldest Prejudice by Jack Hollandhttps://amzn.to/3ZUhf7VEphesians 5 New International Versionhttps://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians%205&version=NIVChristine Caine’s Instagram: @christinecaineEphesians 6 New International Versionhttps://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=ephesians%206&version=NIVSails by Pat Barretthttps://www.worshiptogether.com/songs/sails-pat-barrett/What Are You Loving:Rebecca: Family sleepoversTracy: Christine Caine Equip and Empower Podcasthttps://christinecaine.com/content/podcast-updated-2021/gmgn94?permcode=gmgn94&site=trueRachel: Look’s Market London Fog; All My Knotted Up Life: a Memoir by Beth Moorehttps://amzn.to/3ZVp8K8Disclosure: We only recommend products we use, and all opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links that add no additional cost to you; we may earn a small commission.

This episode is brought to you by Ignite Fitness Studio! Ignite is passionate about creating a space where everyone feels safe to bring their authentic selves, celebrating the beauty of diversity and believing that positive change must start from within! Check out Ignite at ignitefitness.studio or the MindBody App!It’s a celebration of leadership and local government as the Honorable Paul TenHaken takes a break from City Hall to join Tracy and Rachel for a behind-the-scenes honest take on what it is like to serve as the mayor of Sioux Falls, South Dakota! Paul speaks candidly about the rewards and challenges of this wholly unique role, as well as the values that drive his passions, including faith, fitness, mental health and wellness, and protecting the youth of Sioux Falls through collaborative programming. Tracy and Paul discuss the importance of spouses yielding to one another in marriage, while Paul and Rachel explore the balance between protecting family life while remaining accessible to constituents. Paul reveals the routines that center his identity and keep him grounded and celebrates the power of local government. Rachel ponders receiving daily coaching and encouragement calls from Paul’s amazing wife Jill; Tracy declares it’s time to make school board meetings cool again.Episode Mentions:Mayor Paul TenHaken’s Website: https://www.siouxfalls.org/council/members/p-tenhakenMayor Paul TenHaken’s Instagram: @paultenhakenMayor Paul TenHaken’s Facebook: Paul TenHakenMidco Aquatic Centerhttps://www.midcoaquaticcenter.org/YouVersion Bible Apphttps://www.youversion.com/the-bible-app/Pigeon 605: At home, Paul and Jill TenHaken reflect on year that called for leadershiphttps://pigeon605.com/at-home-paul-and-jill-tenhaken-reflect-on-year-that-called-for-leadership/Chick-fil-A Empire Place, Sioux Falls, South Dakotahttps://www.chick-fil-a.com/locations/sd/empire-place-sdMayor’s Fitness Challengehttps://www.siouxfalls.org/100milesSioux 52 Mentoring Initiativehttp://sioux52.org/Isn’t it Lovely? Podcast Season 4 Episode 3: “Isn’t it Lovely to Live a Life of Service? Special Guest: Sioux Falls Police Chief Jon Thum”https://www.isitnotlovely.com/episodes/jonthumWhat Are You Loving:Paul: Netflix’s Physical: 100 Holy Moments: A Handbook for the Rest of Your Life by Matthew Kelly;https://amzn.to/3YZ7swS Indoor Bike TrainerTracy: Break Point docuseries on NetflixRachel: International Women’s Day 2023; Women’s History Month; Bread Givers: A Novel by Anzia Yeziereskahttps://amzn.to/3loMGsHDisclosure: We only recommend products we use and all opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, we may earn a small commission.

Holy Moments: A Handbook for the Rest of Your Life

Isn’t it Lovely? Season 8 kicks off with Tracy and Rachel welcoming longtime dream guest and founder of Better Screen Time Andrea Davis to the show! Leaving guilt, shame, and fear at the door, Andrea instead educates and empowers listeners with countless tools, resources, and strategies to create technology habits that optimize enjoyment of screens in healthy ways. Andrea encourages families to establish routines and expectations for technology by creating a family tech plan, understanding the motivation of the three Cs (creating, connecting, and consuming), and having candid conversations about the responsibilities and personal accountability that precede a child having a phone. Andrea celebrates children being smart, curious, and human, recognizing the limitations of a one size fits all mentality and respectfully inviting kids into the reasoning and conversations behind decisions. Andrea and Rachel discuss a reconsideration of using screen time as part of a reward cycle; Tracy and Andrea explore the importance of identity and knowing oneself well enough to counteract social media messaging. Tracy and Rachel swoon over Andrea’s multiple book recommendations and mic drop moments, all while attempting to master the art of the mute button.Episode Mentions:Andrea Davis’s Website: https://www.betterscreentime.com/Andrea Davis’s Instagram: @betterscreentimeAndrea Davis’s Facebook: Better Screen TimeAtomic Habits by James Clearhttps://amzn.to/3JdSLkYiGen: Why Today's Super-Connected Kids Are Growing Up Less Rebellious, More Tolerant, Less Happy - and Completely Unprepared for Adulthood - and What That Means for the Rest of Us by Jean M. Twengehttps://amzn.to/3ZJGiuQTED Talk by Psychologist Adam Alter: Why our screens make us less happyhttps://www.ted.com/talks/adam_alter_why_our_screens_make_us_less_happy?language=enThe Social Dilemma Documentaryhttps://www.thesocialdilemma.com/Glow Kids: How Screen Addiction Is Hijacking Our Kids - and How to Break the Trance by Nicholas Kardarashttps://amzn.to/3ZG7RoxReset Your Child's Brain: A Four-Week Plan to End Meltdowns, Raise Grades, and Boost Social Skills by Reversing the Effects of Electronic Screen-Time by Victoria L. Dunckleyhttps://amzn.to/3KUJn73What Are You Loving:Andrea: The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry: How to Stay Emotionally Healthy and Spiritually Alive in the Chaos of the Modern World by John Mark Comer https://amzn.to/3ZpDBhZRachel: Play-Doh https://amzn.to/3KZCSjqTracy: Artistry Dancehttps://www.artistrydancestudio.com/Disclosure: We only recommend products we use and all opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, we may earn a small commission.

Isn’t it Lovely? celebrates the conclusion of season 7 with advocate, activist, and beloved YouTube personality Heidi Calmus joining Tracy and Rachel for a special supersized episode! Long before getting recognized for her roles in skits and sketches about parenthood and marriage on the popular Dude Dad vlog, Heidi’s compassion and empathy led her on a path to serve and support vulnerable youth and survivors of human trafficking and abuse through leadership positions with YMCA After School Programs, the Los Angeles Dream Center and Covenant House California. Heidi details how when online fame hit via Dude Dad’s success, she could no longer provide confidential direct services, so she pivoted in ways to still work alongside the movement while staying at home with her children. Heidi and Tracy discuss the seasons of yielding in marriage and the importance of honoring each other’s callings as well as how that can seemingly impact our feelings on identity; while Heidi and Rachel talk about the creation of healthy boundaries to protect the sacred parts of a public life. Heidi brings everyone to tears with her grace-filled and authentic wisdom about parenting young children; the group agrees that the car remains the best place to break down in tears (second only to the shower).Episode Mentions:Heidi Calmus’ Instagram: @heidicalmusHeidi Calmus’ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Heidi-Calmus/100084691694169/Dude Dad’s Instagram: @dudedadDude Dad’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DudeDadVlog/Dude Dad’s YouTube Channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnQjDnWKwV81mXEiuiA9VqgDude Dad’s Website: https://www.dudedad.com/Super Dad TV showhttps://magnolia.com/watch/show/c3dc8b62-f029-5237-904d-283cf1529f6a/super-dad/YMCA Y-Club Middle School After School Programshttps://siouxfallsymca.org/y-club/middle-school-after-school-programs/Stewart Schoolhttps://www.stewartschool.com/Los Angeles Dream Centerhttps://www.dreamcenter.org/Covenant House Californiahttps://covenanthousecalifornia.org/University of Sioux Fallshttps://www.usiouxfalls.edu/Street LugeHeidi’s SAHM Instagram Posthttps://www.instagram.com/p/Cap13lMpxVi/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_linkThe Wellness Mama Podcasthttps://wellnessmama.com/podcast/Medical Mediumhttps://www.medicalmedium.com/Pelvic Floor TherapyRebound Sports and Physical Therapyhttps://www.reboundsportspt.com/beyond-therapy/strong-mama/What Are You Loving:Heidi: HigherDOSE Infrared PEMF Go Mathttps://higherdose.com/products/higherdose-infrared-pemf-on-the-go-matTracy: Parenting: Getting It Right by Andy and Sandra Stanleyhttps://amzn.to/3YNPaipRachel: Call to Freedom https://calltofreedom.org/Curiosity Studio https://curiositystudioclass.com/

The gray skies and subzero temperatures of a South Dakota winter are no match for the pure sunshine and light radiating from the studio as Tracy and Rachel welcome enormously talented multi-hyphenate with a heart of gold Rebecca Swift to the podcast! A singer-songwriter, illustrator, makeup artist, and more, Rebecca shares stories from her days as an American Idol contestant, viral makeup sensation, and social media maven, ultimately celebrating how living a life of authenticity and faith led her to be the best and brightest version of herself. Resting in the peace of being uniquely created and wholly loved, Rebecca reveals the intimate moments she felt the most seen and cherished by God and encourages others to recognize their unique value and purpose as beautiful creations. Tracy and Rebecca praise the power of praying mothers, while Rebecca explores the importance of purging items (and sometimes relationships) to embrace healing and the enjoyment of memories and moments over maintenance. Prior to the interview, Rebecca casually saves the podcast by noticing the equipment has stopped recording while Rachel and Tracy are mid-joke. Tracy points out that, having been raised in a martial arts studio, Rebecca literally is a Karate Kid; Rachel vows to learn the correct pronunciation of authors’ names before mentioning them willy-nilly during the What Are You Loving? segment. Episode Mentions:Rebecca Swift’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rebeccaroaming/Rebecca Swift’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rebeccaswiftmakeup/Porter the Hoarder Book Serieshttps://www.porterthehoarder.com/Outstanding single on Spotifyhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h4b-c5KX7OYMatthew 7:7 NIV: Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.Ransom Churchhttps://ransom.church/Tidying Up with Marie Kondohttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Get_Organized_with_The_Home_EditGet Organized with The Home Edithttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Get_Organized_with_The_Home_EditMay 2022 Midwest Derechohttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/May_2022_Midwest_derechoAshley Holen, DNP, FNP-C, Flourish Wellness and Birth Co.https://flourishbirthco.com/about/What Are You Loving:Rebecca: Hygge; https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HyggeVitamin Dhttps://amzn.to/3WHXz5HRachel: Tayari Jones; Silver Sparrow; https://amzn.to/3wG0PE4An American Marriagehttps://amzn.to/3DkZlm7Tracy: Fancii LED Lighted Travel Makeup Mirror; https://amzn.to/3Y93MbIThe Lincoln Highway: A Novel; https://amzn.to/3DoYSj0Kindle Paperwhitehttps://amzn.to/3XU1M7O

Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition (32 GB) – With a 6.8" display, wireless charging, and auto-adjusting front light – Without Ads

Tracy and Rachel are thrilled to ring in 2023 (and kick off their very first Zoom interview!) with a healthy dose of grace and inspiration from the delightful Stephanie Ham! Married to her Augustana University college sweetheart and Minnesota Vikings Fullback C.J. Ham (skol!), Steph shares how she followed her passion for serving others to earn a Doctor of Physical Therapy degree and engage in rewarding work as a pelvic floor therapist, while caring for three beautiful children and generously giving back to a variety of communities. Steph discusses the importance of true partnership and support in marriage, as well as the notion that “favor is for service, not for status”, which underscores the privilege and joy of giving back, both philanthropically and through helping her patients find healing. Steph also acknowledges the power of a really great pair of dad jeans, while Tracy and Rachel consider a career pivot from podcasting to physical therapy. Everyone agrees that childcare remains one of life’s biggest hurdles and Steph reveals a good Colleen Hoover book (with a Maverick City Music chaser) is the best way to time travel on a treadmill. Episode Mentions:Stephanie Ham’s Instagram: @steph_ham_Stephanie Ham’s Twitter: @StephHamDPTPelvic Floor Therapyhttps://www.webmd.com/women/what-is-pelvic-floor-physical-therapyThe Five Love Languageshttps://5lovelanguages.com/Pro Athletes Outreachhttps://www.pao.org/Compassion Childcarehttps://www.compassionchildcare.com/The Ham Family Scholarship Fundhttps://www.vikings.com/news/c-j-stephanie-ham-launch-scholarship-fundC.J. Hamhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/C._J._HamMaverick City Musichttps://www.instagram.com/maverickcitymusic/?hl=enIsn’t it Lovely? Podcast Season 2 Episode 2: “Isn’t it Lovely to Talk About Our Mental Health? Special Guest: Becky Weber”https://www.isitnotlovely.com/episodes/isnt-it-lovely-to-surrender-special-guest-becky-weberWhat Are You Loving:Stephanie: Treadmill for indoor marathon training; Colleen Hoover BooksRachel: Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Beautifying Lip Kit; Becky WeberTracy: Next Year in Havana by Chanel Cleeton

Neither rain nor snow nor influenza keeps Tracy and Rachel from closing out 2022 with the fabulous Janelle Schock, Designer and Chief Operating Officer of Sodak Clothing! A lifelong artist and creative, Janelle shares how her family followed the call of the beautiful Black Hills of South Dakota to embrace an exciting new adventure as the owners of the family-owned and operated company, Sodak Clothing. Building on her background as a professional photographer and homeschool educator, Janelle reveals how she taught herself graphic design, marketing, and website development to re-launch Sodak Clothing as a movement embracing and celebrating South Dakota pride. Janelle encourages others looking to make a life or career change and speaks candidly about creating a vision and incorporating family and faith into her home and business, embracing her own unique (and occasionally countercultural) life. Tracy suggests Janelle parlay her wisdom and catchphrases into a new weekly segment christened Motto Monday, while Rachel literally hurts her arm enthusiastically cheering over SoDak clothing featuring a line of dresses. All three agree that there are few things more powerful than strong, healthy friendships among women.Episode Mentions:Sodak Clothing Website: https://sodakclothing.com/Sodak Clothing Instagram: @sodakclothingSodak Clothing Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sodakclothing/Snowbird Collective https://sodakclothing.com/pages/snowbird-collectiveSurf Expohttps://surfexpo.com/Danny Gokeyhttps://www.dannygokey.com/Danny Gokey Wearing Sodak Hat in Live Up To Your Name Music Videohttps://www.dannygokey.com/video/danny-gokey-live-up-to-your-name-official-music-video/#video-galleryRedemption Line of SoDak Flannelhttps://sodakclothing.com/pages/our-goodsNyberg’s Ace Hardwarehttps://sodakclothing.com/pages/our-goodsThe Trolley Songhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hwP6kNIDg30What Are You Loving:Janelle: Her beautiful familyRachel: Healthy friendships among women; Quote attributed to various sources: Surround yourself with women who would mention your name in a roomful of opportunities. Tracy: Lauren Daigle Behold Christmas Albumhttps://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTzXMoe_t2pNgMgj-4m7Gnk292SzFSpLc

“Givers gain. If I walk into everything that I do in life with that mentality I will give as much as I possibly can and know that nothing is lost.”Get ready to dream BIG as Tracy and Rachel welcome beloved local artist, entrepreneur, and massive inspiration Desire Jansen to the podcast! Dez shares her secrets (and superpowers!) for living a life of purpose through pursuing huge dreams with focused goals, while also reflecting on the ways her action-packed life led her to better understand her identity, invest in herself, and transform her passions and hobbies into successful businesses. Dez reveals what helped her shed a scarcity mentality to embrace a life of generosity and abundance and celebrates the rewards of giving back, including providing women with skillsets to make their own money and become empowered to make life-changing choices, such as walking away from unhealthy relationships and working fewer hours to enjoy more time with their families. Dez also powerfully shares about her time in Southern Florida in her 20’s where she overcame homelessness and recounts how she discovered her faith in God. Dez and Rachel evoke fond memories of inspirational school posters from the 1990’s, while Dez and Tracy discuss the finer points of Matthew McConaughey’s infamous bongo playing. Everyone agrees, yet again, that accents rule the day; Rachel and Tracy try to convince Dez that she should write a memoir.Episode Mentions:Gemineye Studio Website: https://www.gemineyestudio.com/Gemineye Studio Instagram: @gemineyestudioGemineye Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GemineyeStudio.SiouxFalls/Desire Jansen Artwork Website: http://www.dezjansen.com/Desire Jansen Artwork Instagram: @graphite_dezCall to Freedom Website: https://www.calltofreedom.org/Mark Cole, CEO of the John Maxwell Enterprisehttps://www.johnmaxwell.com/speakers/mark-cole/Terry Liggins, CEO of The Hurdle Life Coach Foundationhttps://hurdlelifecoachfoundation.org/Made For This with Jennie Allen Podcasthttps://www.jennieallen.com/podcastIsn’t it Lovely? Podcast Season 3 Episode 6: “Isn’t it Lovely to Fall in Love with Reading?” https://www.isitnotlovely.com/episodes/ashleyholenandalliveldhouseWhat Are You Loving:Desire: Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey https://greenlights.com/#bookTracy: Walking everyday! As learned from her time on the Camino del Norte of the Camino De Santiago in Spain.Rachel: Midnights album, by Taylor Swift; “Anti-Hero” song.

Rachel and Tracy are energized and delighted as they sit down with vibrant local powerhouse Sandy Lown, Executive Director of Sioux Falls-based nonprofit, the Teddy Bear Den! Celebrating 26 years of nurturing healthy pregnancies, babies, and communities, the Teddy Bear Den has served over 32,000 women in the Sioux Falls area through its incentive and education based program for limited income pregnant women. Once the sole employee of the Teddy Bear Den, Sandy is quick to give any and all credit to her team of colleagues and volunteers, the healthcare workers who support the organization, and the women and children who participate in its programs. Emphasizing one of the Teddy Bear Den’s pillars, “we’re not there to judge; we’re just there to help”, Sandy stresses the importance of treating all women with dignity and respect and explains the vitalness of investing in children as the future of of Sioux Falls. Rachel and Tracy confess to Sandy that they have admired her from afar for years, while Sandy wonders out loud if this is creepy or not. Rachel wrestles with wanting to mute Sandy’s microphone so Sandy can accept compliments, while not wanting to silence a fellow woman; Tracy evokes a timeless Whitney Houston song.

Episode Mentions:

Teddy Bear Den Website: https://teddybearden.org/

Teddy Bear Den Instagram: @teddybeardensf

Teddy Bear Den Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/teddybearden/

“The Greatest Love of All”, as sung by Whitney Houston

What Are You Loving:

Sandy: Remedy Brewing Company and Monk’s Ale House https://www.remedybrewco.com/

Rachel: 12-3-30 Treadmill Workout https://www.health.com/fitness/cardio-workouts/12-3-30-workout

Tracy: Bissell Steam Shot Handheld Steam Cleaner and Sanitizer https://www.amazon.com/Bissell-39N7V-Surface-Steam-Cleaner/dp/B07V39L623

Calling all Mandatees (and the newly minted Lovelies): not since Full House and Family Matters has there been such a highly anticipated crossover episode! Isn’t it Lovely? is thrilled to kick off Season 7 by welcoming podcast brothers and dear friends Ryan Konz and Ben Krush of The Mandate Podcast to the show! Fearless leaders of their loyal Mandatees and hosts extraordinaire, Ryan and Ben open up about their passion to “to teach men how to talk”, encouraging listeners to push past casual chats about sports, jobs, and the weather to embrace more honest, vulnerable conversations and deeper relationships. Ben explores the origin story of Mandate, sharing the life-changing testimonies the show has received and revealing the crucial moment he almost walked away from it all. Ryan speaks candidly about finding his niche as the new co-host on an established show and why this venture brings him closer to his lifelong dream of becoming the next Jimmy Fallon. Ryan and Ben share their Meet Cutes with their amazing wives and explain the overall value of healthy conflict and leaving pride at the door. Rachel and Tracy acknowledge the effectiveness of pickup lines and cede that Ryan’s superpower as a Connector brings him closer to most people than even Kevin Bacon’s famed six degrees. Tracy finally discovers the meaning of “Go Cou”, while Rachel makes accidental puns with Ben’s name. Everyone agrees that a genuine compliment is the best “rocket fuel” of all.

Episode Mentions:

The ManDate Podcast Website: https://anchor.fm/mandate

The ManDate Podcast Instagram: @themandatepod

Jon Kirby’s Hair

What Are You Loving:

Ryan: Comedian Nate Bargatze

Ben: Sweet Cheeks: Ice Cream, Frozen Yogurt, and Dairy-Free Sorbet and High Performance Habits: How Extraordinary People Become That Way by Brendon Burchard

Rachel: Quote from @busytoddler: I dumped a whole pint of blueberries on the floor of the store with a 3-year-old, 2-year-old, and a baby strapped to me in a front pack. I could [have] cried surveying the mess and trying to figure out what to do when a person came up to me, lightly touched my arm, and said, “go, this is my problem now.” And they literally shooed me away. It was and still is one of the nicest things a person has ever done for me, and it was just cleaning up blueberries.”

Tracy: Fit My Feet Sioux Falls

“It’s more important that we do what we believe we’re supposed to do by loving people first and being obedient to what we think our purpose is.”

In this season’s bonus episode of Isn’t it Lovely?, Tracy and Rachel welcome South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem to the podcast! Governor Noem shares her experiences as the first woman to serve as governor of South Dakota, detailing the importance of representation and the undeniable power of women coming together and supporting one another. Governor Noem also reveals the encouragement her mother gave her as a young girl that changed the trajectory of her life and speaks candidly about the challenges and rewards of living a life of public service. Rachel and Tracy explore the breakdown in communication that occurs without genuine conversation and listening, while Governor Noem acknowledges the importance of friends and family who disagree with her politically, but still demonstrate love and participate in relationship. Tracy ponders getting a wolf tattoo in support of Abby Wambach’s “wolf pack” metaphor; and calls on Governor Noem's Communication Director to help with wolfpack trademarks, Rachel requests the location of the Madison, South Dakota campaign stop where a particularly delicious-looking cake was served.

Episode Mentions:

Governor Kristi Noem’s Official Website: https://governor.sd.gov/

Governor Kristi Noem’s Official Instagram: @govkristinoem

Governor Kristi Noem’s Official Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/govnoem/

Governor Kristi Noem’s Personal Website: https://www.kristinoem.com/

Governor Kristi Noem’s Personal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristinoem/

Governor Kristi Noem’s Personal Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kristiforgovernor

Wolfpack: How to Come Together, Unleash OurPower, and Change the Game by Abby Wambach

Deuteronomy 28:13: The Lord will make you the head, not the tail. If you pay attention to the commands of the Lord your God that I give you this day and carefully follow them, you will always be at the top, never at the bottom.

Tom Daschle https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tom_Daschle

What Are You Loving:

Governor Noem: Cake Frosting https://www.masterclass.com/articles/frosting-vs-icing

Rachel: South Dakota Urban Indian Health Voices Art Show https://sduih.org/

Tracy: The Sampson House https://www.thesampsonhouse.com/

Calling all bookworms: the Isn’t it Lovely? Book Club is BACK and better than ever as fan faves Alli Veldhouse and Ashley Holen bring along literary soulmate Danielle Shields to join Rachel and Tracy for a second installment of BOOK TALK! Appropriately recorded in a local Sioux Falls library, this episode spotlights Danielle’s story of why reading is so important to her (along with a gentle dispelling of the notion that all books must be read to completion), as the rest of group listens with rapt attention to her pearls of wisdom. Spanning everything from worldview-changing reads to guilty pleasures, the conversation also includes Ashley’s nomination as “most likely to be Katniss Everdeen from The Hunger Games”, Alli’s determination that Elin Hilderbrand's books deserves perhaps a PG-13 rating, the overall pros and cons of marking up books, and Rachel and Tracy’s shared mic transforming into the sixth entity in the room.

Episode Mentions:

A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman

Emotionally Healthy Spirituality by Peter Scazzero

Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden

The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini

Blue Like Jazz by Donald Miller

Neither Wolf Nor Dog: On Forgotten Roads with an Indian Elder by Kent Nerburn

The Hunger Games Series by Suzanne Collins

The Winter Series, The Blue Bistro, The Paradise Series, and The Hotel Nantucket by Elin Hilderbrand

Sweet Valley High Series by Francine Pascal

The Bible

Share Your Stuff. I’ll Go First. by Laura Tremaine

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

The Attributes of God by A.W. Tozer

The Gift of Being Yourself: The Sacred Call to Self-Discovery by David Brenner

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Find Your People by Jennie Allen

Being Mortal by Atul Gawande

Letters to My Son by Kent Nerburn

Jim Kwik: Brain Coach

Libby: The Library Reading App

Isn’t it Lovely? Podcast Season 3 Episode 6: “Isn’t it Lovely to Fall in Love with Reading?” https://www.isitnotlovely.com/episodes/ashleyholenandalliveldhouse

What Are You Loving:

Alli: Olga Alteration https://www.facebook.com/OlgaAlteration/ and Tailoring and Goof Off https://goofoffproducts.com/

Danielle: Classical Stuff You Should Know Podcast Episode 169: “Kierkegaard’s Fear and Trembling” https://www.classicalstuff.net/episodes-1/2021/6/29/169-kierkegaards-fear-and-trembling

Ashley: Flourish Wellness and Birth Co. https://flourishbirthco.com/

Rachel: Flourish Wellness and Birth Co. and Culture Con 2022 https://letsthink3d.com/culturecon2022/

Tracy: Science Nutrition, TB16 Thermal Burn, and HydroIV https://mysciencenutrition.com/

Isn’t it Lovely? was thrilled to have the great honor of interviewing golf legend Nancy Lopez during a special live show recorded during Women’s Day at The 2022 Sanford International Golf Tournament!

Reflecting on her celebrated career, Nancy touchingly leads with a tribute to her first coach and beloved father Domingo, who modeled for her the importance of dreaming big, setting goals, working hard, and always staying positive, even (and perhaps especially) in the face of failure. Nancy shares why it is so important for her to sign every autograph and honor each fan, as well as the ways she balanced her love of family with her passion for her career. There isn’t a dry eye in the room as she shares the personal reasons she devotes her time, energy, and resources to some very special charitable causes, as well as how she seeks to empower and encourage women everywhere. Rachel and Tracy attempt to get Nancy to disclose the name of the famous golfer whose questionable behavior unwittingly influenced her unwavering appreciation for her fans and supporters; Nancy asserts that women can indeed run the world - and the entire room agrees.

TEXT *Please note the audio quality of this episode reflects the uniqueness of recording a live show outside of our usual studio. While the sound may be a little different than our other episodes, we trust that Nancy’s wisdom and inspiration will come through loud and clear.

Episode Mentions:

Nancy Lopez: LPGA https://www.lpga.com/players/nancy-lopez/81218/bio

Nancy Lopez Golf Apparel and Equipment Website: https://nancylopezgolf.com/

Nancy Lopez Golf Apparel and Equipment Instagram: @nancylopezgolf

Nancy Lopez Golf Apparel and Equipment Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NancyLopezGolf/

Nancy Lopez Golf Adventures Website: https://www.nancylopezgolfadventures.com/

Nancy Lopez Golf Adventures Instagram: @nancylopezgolfadventures

Nancy Lopez Golf Adventures Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nancylopezgolfadventures

The Sanford International Golf Tournament Website: https://www.sanfordinternational.com/

The Sanford International Golf Tournament Instagram: @sanfordinternational

The Sanford International Golf Tournament Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SanfordInternational/

AIM (Adventures in Movement) for the Handicapped Website: https://www.aimforthehandicapped.org/

Special thanks to Scott Jibben for post-show audio engineering: https://scottjibben.com/

Prepare to be hit with a wave of impassioned empowerment as Isn’t it Lovely? welcomes motivational speaker and Hurdle Life Coach Foundation Executive Director Terry Liggins to the podcast! With compassion and sensitivity, Terry describes how a challenging childhood and adolescence led to an encounter with the justice system that changed the course of his life and set him on a path to higher education, and national recognition as a record-breaking athlete. After college, Terry found himself experiencing one of his greatest challenges when he spent time in federal prison. Today he utilizes his own life experiences to positively impact others and advocate on their behalf. Terry explains why “credible messengers” and peer-shared experiences are vital to providing the unique support, long-term care, accountability, and empathy required to help justice-impacted individuals reenter and thrive in their communities. Instead of “hurt people hurt people”, Terry encourages communities to become trauma-informed allies and advocates for their neighbors, creating trust with survivors and recognizing that “healed people help people”. Terry and Tracy bond over their shared high school experiences in Omaha, Nebraska as (Mighty) Bunnies and Huskies, respectively; Rachel cries no less than 5 times in this episode after being repeatedly brought to tears by Terry “taking everyone to church.”

Episode Mentions:

Terry Liggins’ Website: https://www.hurdlelifecoachfoundation.org/

Terry Liggins’ Instagram: @thehurdlelifecoach

Terry Liggins’ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hurdlelifecoachfoundation/

Sioux Falls Mayor Paul TenHaken’s Argus Leader Opinion Piece Suggesting Safer Communities Require Collaboration: https://www.argusleader.com/story/opinion/2022/09/04/paul-tenhaken-sioux-falls-mayor-south-dakota-growth-public-safety/7971957001/

What Are You Loving:

Terry: Sioux Falls Chick-fil-A, hard work and challenges: “The hard things are the good things.”

New Morning Mercies: A Daily Gospel Devotional by Paul David Tripp https://www.paultripp.com/new-morning-mercies

Rachel: Burnt Toast Podcast Episode 47: “Skincare Culture is Dewy Diet Culture” https://virginiasolesmith.substack.com/p/skincare-culture-dewy-diet-culture#details

It’s time for a Mailbag Edition of Isn’t it Lovely? as Rachel and Tracy tackle their most commonly asked listener questions about the ins and outs of podcasting! From crafting the initial interview questions to promoting the final product on social media, Rachel and Tracy share their process from start to finish, highlighting which steps give them life - and which ones maybe crush their souls a little bit at a time. Tracy reveals that the third time was the charm to finally get a handle on how to run their equipment, while Rachel reminisces about using foreign currency to purchase reasonably priced intro/outro music from a possibly Netherlands-based band. This fun size episode wraps up with a special podcast-themed What Are You Loving? Segment, a celebration of both local and national podcast faves.

Episode Mentions:

Scooters Coffee - scooterscoffee.com

Garage Band - https://www.apple.com/mac/garageband/

Headliner - https://www.headliner.app/

Squarespace - squarespace.com

What Are You Loving? (Podcast Edition!)

American Girls - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/american-girls/id1454139632

You Must Remember This - http://www.youmustrememberthispodcast.com/

Made For This with Jennie Allen - https://www.jennieallen.com/podcast

The ManDate Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-mandate-podcast/id1554807448

The Conversation with Adam Weber- https://www.adamweber.com/theconversation

Do Work Better - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/do-work-better/id1473465202

The Skinny Confidential HIM and HER Show - https://tscpodcast.com/

Boundaries.me - https://www.drcloud.com/podcasts

In collaboration with South Dakota’s celebrated 4Front Studios, Isn’t it Lovely? is thrilled to introduce its very first long-form audio and video episode featuring the endlessly inspiring Amos and Heather Kittelson as they share their love story and journey of breaking generational trauma to find hope and healing from addiction. With sensitivity and care, Amos and Heather recreate the morning Heather decided to take her life after battling postpartum depression and alcoholism - and what prompted Amos to return to their home to help her fight for her life. With tremendous empathy and a compassionate desire to combat shame and stigma, Amos and Heather use their testimony to encourage a life playbook that includes education, awareness, boundaries, guardrails, and recognition of the value of life created by a loving God. Tracy and Rachel are moved to tears for much of the episode, pausing only to delight in the pink lighting and set design generously provided by 4Front, while also requesting that Amos and Heather record daily personal messages under the moniker Kindness with the Kittelsons. Heather embraces the blessing of her experiences as a platform to help others; the three women decide to take an Amos-free road trip to celebrate their newfound friendship.

Heather Kittelson Instagram: @heatherkittelson

Heather Kittelson Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heather.sanow

Redemption Artistry Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/redemptionartistry

Sidewalk Technologies Website: https://www.sidewalktech.com/

Sidewalk Technologies Instagram: @sidewalktechnologies

Sidewalk Technologies Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SidewalkTech

4FrontStudios Website: https://4frontstudios.com/

4Front Studios Instagram: @4frontstudios

4Front Studios Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/4FrontSF/

Isn’t it Lovely? YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UeTyo0Lv4-U

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline

Alcoholics Anonymous https://www.aa.org

Al-Anon Family Groups https://al-anon.org

The Armor of God https://www.christianity.com/wiki/christian-terms/what-is-the-full-armor-of-god-how-can-i-put-on-the-whole-armor-of-god.html

Fortitude Definition https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fortitude

It’s a celebration of art, design, and beauty as Isn’t it Lovely? welcomes dear friend and favorite creative Christy Steen to the podcast! Christy shares suggestions for imaginatively uncovering “beauty from ashes” and making design accessible, including exploring garage and estate sales and Facebook Marketplace for treasures, embracing concepts of repurposing and recycling, and paring down and rearranging existing items. Christy and Tracy encourage leaning into curiosity and risk-taking to discover sources of inspiration, as well as the influences of nature, repetition and unity to bring balance, harmony, and warmth to a space. Christy and Rachel discuss receiving God’s kindness in moments of doubt and vulnerability and how to counteract shame scripts to embrace the truth of who He created His children to be. The What Are You Loving? segment is heavy on actor Val Kilmer, as Tracy joins millions in praising Top Gun: Maverick and Rachel defends Val’s penchant for wearing turquoise jewelry.

Episode Mentions:

Christy Steen Instagram: @steenstudio

Modern Farmhouse Style

Jeremiah Brent Design https://www.jeremiahbrent.com

“I’ve always believed the ultimate form of luxury is personalization. It has nothing to do with budget.” - Jeremiah Brent, Architectural Digest

Hope Chest Resale Shop https://hopechest.com/shop/

Jenna Sue Design Co. https://www.jennasuedesign.com

Jessica Jansma Design https://www.earth.com/news/experiencing-awe-in-nature-has-a-powerful-effect-on-emotional-well-being/

Experiencing Awe in Nature

What Are You Loving:

Christy: CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) from Cherry Rock Farms http://cherryrockfarms.com

Tracy: Gemineye Studio Microblading, https://www.gemineyestudio.com Top Gun: Maverick https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1745960/

Rachel: Val, Amazon Original Documentary https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Val_(film)

Isn’t it Lovely? Season 6 continues exploring themes of healing and identity as Rachel and Tracy sit down with AsOne Ministries Founder and CEO Andrew DeVaney. Andrew shares the personal faith journey that ultimately led him to encounter the love of Jesus in a profound and transformational way, while also allowing him to deconstruct elements of faith in an attempt to better understand where God is in the midst of global challenges, such as genocide, hunger, and poverty. Andrew’s immersive experiences in other cultures and the resulting relationships created the opportunity to develop a model to help combat global issues while empowering cultures and supporting dignity, creativity, and agency. Andrew encourages a consideration that the beauty and image of God are present in all cultures, resisting the notion of superior nations or ways of life. He invites listeners to step into their own unique purposes as beautiful creations with specific work to do by pursuing healing and creating the space to slow down and ask the questions, “Who are we becoming?” versus “What do we do?”. Rachel realizes that Andrew’s love of sandwiches, coffee, and books makes him the perfect third host of the podcast and invites him to join; Tracy notes that the What Are You Loving? segment has a budget-friendly theme.

AsOne Ministries Website: https://www.asoneafrica.org/

AsOne Ministries Instagram: @asoneministries

AsOne Ministries Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AsOneAfrica

Mitchell Corn Palace

Becoming Whole: Why the Opposite of Poverty Isn’t the American Dream by Dr. Brian Fikkert and Kelly M. Kapic

Revelation 7:9a: After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb.

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey

A Long Obedience in the Same Direction: Discipleship in an Instant Society by Eugene H. Peterson

True Self False Self: Unmasking the Spirit Within by M. Basil Pennington

The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry: How to Stay Emotionally Healthy and Spiritually Alive in the Chaos of the Modern World by John Mark Comer

What Are You Loving:

Andrew: Cuban Sandwiches, Yampa Sandwich Company, Look’s Marketplace, and A Burning in my Bones: The Authorized Biography of Eugene Peterson by Winn Collier

Rachel: Libby, the Library Reading App

Tracy: Anatomy of a Scandal

Isn’t it Lovely is delighted to kick off Season 6 by welcoming art therapist Lauren Callis to the podcast for a revelatory conversation about self-care, healing, creativity, and so much more! As the co-founder and executive director of Curiosity Studio, Lauren leads both in-person and virtual sessions to help her participants discover information about themselves, while developing empathy, connection, curiosity, and empowerment. Lauren addresses the ways art therapy is a legitimate form of therapy and how it serves as an alternative method of self-discovery and communication to more traditional talk therapy, while also discussing the importance of removing barriers to make art and art therapy more accessible. Lauren encourages listeners not to fear failure, but rather to embrace it as a meaningful part of the creative process, letting go of perfection to build the scaffolding that helps focus on self-identity, relationships, and the greater community. Tracy channels her inner Madonna to pronounce Lauren a Material Girl; Rachel is thrilled at the mention of yarn.

Episode Mentions:

Curiosity Studio Website: https://curiositystudioclass.com/

Curiosity Studio Instagram: @curiositystudio_

Curiosity Studio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CuriosityStudioClass/

Art Therapy

Adrienne Maree Brown: https://adriennemareebrown.net/

Pat Allen: https://www.patballen.com/

Laune Bread: https://launebread.com/

Third Space Theory

Lake Street, Minneapolis, Minnesota

What Are You Loving:

Lauren: Worn: A People’s History of Clothing by Sofi Thanhauser

Tracy: Farm fresh eggs and the Elite Gourmet Rapid Egg Cooker https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00F0RDRFS/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1

Rachel: Lauren Callis

*This episode was recorded in May during Mental Health Awareness Month

Isn’t it Lovely? went on the road last spring for a long-awaited conversation with entrepreneur, dreamer, and all-around powerhouse Audra Robinson, founder of Rocky Robinson self-care products. In this Season 5 finale episode, Audra expresses her gratitude to an encouraging mother and the educators and community leaders who invested in her as she was growing up and discusses how her experiences as “the only” in the room throughout her career in corporate marketing led to her commitment to counteract this lack of diversity. Audra explains that while the intersection of “girl power” and “black girl magic” is foundational to Rocky Robinson, Rocky is for everyone - a message of inclusivity that is innate to the brand. In raving over Audra’s gift for celebrating and lifting up others, Tracy and Rachel are thrilled to discover that she is a fellow former cheerleader. Tracy reads the Rocky Robinson empowerment message and everyone chokes up; overcome with love and affection for her hometown, Rachel rattles off a random list of Minneapolis landmarks. “There’s no place like home” indeed.

Episode Mentions:

Rocky Robinson Website: https://www.itsmerocky.com/

Rocky Robinson Instagram: @youresocuterocky

Rocky Robinson Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/youresocuterocky

KARE 11 News Story: Black-owned Self-care Business Teaches Young Girls the Power of Self-love https://www.kare11.com/article/money/business/behind-the-business/black-owned-self-care-business-teaches-young-girls-power-of-self-love/89-de8504a4-de2d-4b62-aece-d2011147d947

My Founder Story Article https://www.myfounderstory.com/feature-founder-audra-robinson-rocky-robinson/

Black Girls Rock! Network https://blackgirlsrock.com

Minneapolis Craft Market - Hayley Matthews-Jones https://www.mplscraftmarket.com/about

What Are You Loving:

Audra: Black Women Deserve an Easy Life by Alecia Renece The Artist

Tracy: Community and friends that watch your children while you are podcasting.

Rachel: Minneapolis, Minnesota, Spoonbridge and Cherry Sculpture, IDS Center

“We want to cultivate a community. We want to bring community back…[God] didn’t create us to be alone.”

It’s a celebration of women’s health and wellness as Tracy and Rachel welcome midwives and real-life sisters Sarah Roe and Erin Vande Lune to the podcast to share the story of how the (literal!) dream of launching Flourish Wellness and Birth Co. became a reality. Passion and empathy for their patients is evident as Sarah and Erin describe their shared vision of creating a safe space and community where women can feel empowered, seen, and known as they seek comprehensive, proactive healthcare and education for life stages from adolescence to post-menopause, including pregnancy care and the option for a birth center outside of a hospital setting. They discuss achieving balance in both their personal and professional relationships, as well as their journey of arriving on the same page through prayer, counsel…and falling down a flight of stairs. Sarah and Tracy bond over being Enneagram 9s with 8 wings and how these gentle peacemakers can also be powerful dreamers and doers, while Rachel responds to the nurturing atmosphere in the room by feeling compelled to spill emotionally intimate life details and is relieved to finally get to make a Call the Midwife reference. Tracy and Rachel are also delighted to acknowledge and celebrate season-long Isn’t it Lovely? themes of community and the importance of working toward an emotionally healthy identity.

Episode Mentions:

Flourish Wellness and Birth Co. Website: https://flourishbirthco.com

Flourish Wellness and Birth Co. Instagram: @flourish_wellness_birthco

Call the Midwife by Jennifer Worth

Call the Midwife BBC Period Drama Series

What Are You Loving:

Track Season

Howard Wood Dakota Relays

Hormone Intelligence by Aviva Romm

Radiance Day Spa - Lydia https://www.radiance-dayspa.com/

Crumbl Cookies https://crumblcookies.com/41ststreet

Volunteers of America https://www.voa.org/

Papa Murphy’s Pizza - Manager Brian https://order.papamurphys.com/menu/papa-murphys-2101-41st-st

Fortune’s Children: The Fall of the House of Vanderbilt by Arthur T. Vanderbilt II

Fan favorite Tim Meagher is BACK … and this time he’s brought his friends. Rachel and Tracy welcome Tim, JD Kessler, and Marcus Suhn, affectionately known as The Mighty Hunters (along with dear friend Adam Swingdorf, who was tied up making Sensational Smiles), to the podcast to discover how an elk hunting trip solidified lifelong friendships and why being self-aware and comfortable in your own skin paves the way for deeper connections defined by support, generosity, and a whole lot of internet memes. Rachel immediately startles the group by introducing the word “intimacy” into the conversation, while Tracy and the hunters sing the praises of Scheels Sporting Goods. JD posits that Marcus is secretly a doppelganger for Rip from the television series Yellowstone, and all of the hunters offer advice for pursuing deeper relationships - without having to travel to Idaho.

Episode Mentions: Steve Rinella: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steven_Rinella Stars in the Sky: A Hunting Story: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt10078502/ Rip Wheeler, Yellowstone: https://western-series.fandom.com/wiki/Rip_Wheeler Morrie’s Steakhouse: https://www.morriessteakhouse.com Elle Woods’ Snap Cup - Legally Blonde 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OViadirUIp8 Atoley Salon and Spa - Chelsea: https://www.atoley.com/stylists.html#/ Richard Simmons: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_Simmons

What Are You Loving: JD: Chick-fil-A Empire Place https://www.chick-fil-a.com/locations/sd/empire-place-sd & Jordan Peterson: https://www.jordanbpeterson.com Marcus: Change of seasons. Tracy: Scheels Sporting Goods: https://www.scheels.com Tim: Genuine connection & community Rachel: Tim Meagher

Pop them bottles! It’s another very special bonus episode with Rachel and Tracy to celebrate their first year (give or take a few months) of hosting the Isn’t it Lovely? Podcast! Rachel reflects on the origin story of the podcast, while Tracy proclaims their shared respect for author and teacher Jennie Allen before unveiling the announcement of the very first Isn’t it Lovely? Book Club, featuring Jennie Allen’s latest book, Find Your People: Building Deep Community in a Lonely World (Stay tuned for more details in the coming weeks!). Tracy and Rachel express gratitude for their incredible community of listeners and look toward a future that continues to highlight Sioux Falls-based stories, while also expanding to new cities. And it wouldn’t be an episode of Isn’t it Lovely? without a What Are You Loving? segment featuring books, empowering quotes, and, of course, food.

Jennie Allen Website: https://www.jennieallen.com/

https://www.instagram.com/jennieallen/

Find Your People: Building Deep Community in a Lonely World by Jennie Allen

What Are You Loving?

Rachel: Breadico Sourdough Bread Company

Tracy: The End of Your Life Book Club by Will Schwalbe

“It is not by regretting what is irreparable that true work is to be done, but by making the best of what we are. It is not by complaining that we have not the right tools, but by using well the tools we have. What we are, and where we are, is God’s providential arrangement, - God’s doing, though it may be man’s misdoing; and the manly and the wise way is to look your disadvantages in the face, and see what can be made out of them.” - F.W. Robertson

Tracy and Rachel are honored and delighted to sit down with literal history-maker Kimberly Reed to discuss her wide-ranging career in Washington D.C. and groundbreaking role as the first female Chairman of the Board, President, and CEO of the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM). Kim expertly weaves anecdotes from her childhood and personal life into experiences from her professional life, including reflecting on delivering a hot cocoa demonstration as a nine-year-old girl to a panel of 4-H judges, which sparked the healthy self-confidence she would one day need to sit before the U.S. Senate for the two and a half year process that eventually led to her confirmation (with bi-partisan support!) with the EXIM bank. Kim encourages listeners to consider the avenues and opportunities they have to serve others and help make the world a better place, while also including a shoutout to past guest and friend of the show Luke Lindberg and the vital importance of mentoring. Tracy marvels at the epic tale of how Kim had a mere one hour notice to prepare to take her oath of office and what she found on her bookshelf that gave her the encouragement she needed, while Rachel cannot get over “Poppers” as an adorable nickname for a grandfather. Later, city girls Rachel and Tracy hilariously lament the fact that they missed out on the advantages of being involved in 4-H.

Episode Mentions:

Kim Reed’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reedkimberlyann/

Export-Import Bank of the United States: https://www.exim.gov/

Belt and Road Initiative: https://www.beltroad-initiative.com/belt-and-road/

Midwest Agricultural Export Summit: https://www.siouxfalls.business/sioux-falls-hosts-midwest-agricultural-export-summit-drawing-national-leaders/

Senator John Thune, Senator Mike Rounds, and Congressman Dusty Johnson

4-H: https://www.isitnotlovely.com/episodes/lukelindberg

Luke Lindberg Isn’t it Lovely? Podcast Show Notes and Interview: https://www.isitnotlovely.com/episodes/lukelindberg

Believe IT by Jamie Kern Lima

https://www.loreal-finance.com/eng/news-release/loreal-signs-agreement-acquire-it-cosmetics

It’s a BFF extravaganza in the studio as Tracy and Rachel welcome Courtney Collen and Katrina Yde to the podcast for a conversation about all things friendship! Courtney and Katrina share their Meet Cute as inspiration for how to pursue friendship past the college years, while Tracy and Rachel delight in the ways these women serve as one another’s biggest cheerleaders. Katrina graciously provides complimentary therapy as she and Tracy consider the importance of making peace with conflict or tension in relationships as well as how to nurture a safe place for vulnerability even when it feels awkward. Courtney and Katrina express how the pain of feeling left out in childhood inspires a desire to be inclusive and welcoming in adult friendships, while illustrating intentional and empowering ways to engage in the types of behaviors that can change up less healthy norms and rules. Tracy suggests Katrina draft a Friendship Manifesto for all to sign, while Rachel and Courtney rhapsodize over office supplies. Obligatory mentions of Goodreads ensue as well.

Episode Mentions:

Courtney Collen’s Instagram: @courtneycollen; @courtneymcollen

Katrina Yde’s Instagram: @katrinayde

Forward Counseling’s Website: https://www.forwardcounselingllc.com/

Forward Counseling’s Instagram: @forwardcounselingllc

JY6 Foundation Website: https://www.jy6foundation.org/

JY6 Foundation Instagram: @jy6foundation

"Why Making Friends in Midlife is so Hard": https://www.theatlantic.com/family/archive/2022/01/how-to-make-new-friends-midlife/621231/

"How to Make Friends as an Adult": https://www.thecut.com/article/how-to-make-friends-as-an-adult.html

What Are You Loving?

Read Across America

Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens

The Paris Apartment by Lucy Foley

Women’s History Month

Sioux Falls Arc of Dreams

Paper Mate Flair Felt Tip Pens

Rachel and Tracy cozy up for a morning coffee (and smoothie) with Colorado resident Kelsey Hargadine as she details how she began her lifelong calling into the heart of Uganda and how, with the help of relationships, we all have a zealous YES that we can step into. Kelsey discusses practical steps to listen and eliminate the noise and distractions in our lives and how, in doing so, we are intentional in what we let into our minds and clear the way to be actively hearing from God. Tracy and Rachel ask on behalf of a “friend” and the “friend’s friend” specific noise “the friend” should eliminate to hear better. Kelsey also presents the topic of failure and how paramount failure is to growth, exploring how her roundabout move to Singapore taught this valuable lesson. In the end, Kelsey talks about her upcoming book she is writing and encourages everyone into relationships because God made us to be relational and even though relationships can be messy, they are always worth it. Rachel & Tracy both ask Kelsey about her first impression of Sioux Falls, and to no one’s surprise she confirms that it is (sigh) very cold.

Episode Mentions:

ROWAN Website: https://loverowan.org/

ROWAN Instagram: @love.rowan

ROWAN Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LoveROWAN/

Francis Chan: https://www.crazylove.org/

“Fail early, fail often, but always fail forward.” — John Maxwell, Failing Forward: Turning Mistakes Into Stepping Stones for Success. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/628070.Failing_Forward

‘“So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Rom. 10:17). Notice it does not say, faith comes from having heard. The whole nature of faith implies a relationship with God that is current. The emphasis is on hearing…in the now!’ — Bill Johnson

“It is abnormal for a Christian not to have an appetite for the impossible.” ― Bill Johnson, When Heaven Invades Earth: A Practical Guide to a Life of Miracles

Throne Publishing: https://thronepg.com/

“What has felt like your resting place is now a starting line.” Dream Big, Bob Goff https://www.bobgoff.com/books

What Are You Loving?

Kelsey: Lumify Eye Drops: https://www.lumifydrops.com/

Rachel: Dear White Peacemaker: Dismantling Racism with Grit and Grace by Osheta Moore. https://osheta.com/dear-white-peacemakers/

Tracy: Daily Detox Smoothie from Daily Clean Food & Drink https://dailycleanfood.com/

Isn’t it Lovely? Season 5 hits the ground running as Rachel and Tracy welcome photographer, creative director, foodie extraordinaire and Sioux Falls Hype Man Vince Danh to the podcast for a long-form interview celebrating the entrepreneurial spirit, major life pivots, uplifting communities - and his willingness to wait for really good food. Vince shares how his path to becoming a lawyer shifted the moment he picked up a camera during a 6-month (U.S. State Department Commissioned!) trip to Southeast Asia and fell in love with capturing the moments and stories unfolding around him. He highlights how growing up in Sioux Falls with a strong family bond and supportive mentors provided him with the foundation to consistently help out and support others in every area of his life. Vince teaches Rachel and Tracy an Australian accent party trick, while Rachel tries to persuade Tracy and Vince to demonstrate secret fraternity/sorority handshakes and chants. Tracy and Vince extoll the virtues of Kerrygold butter, while Rachel grapples with the knowledge that not everyone fondly remembers (or remembers at all) the Lilith Fair Music Festivals.

Episode Mentions:

Vincent Gene Website: https://vincentgene.com/

Vincent Gene Instagram: @viva_la_vince

4Front Studios Website: https://4frontstudios.com/

4Front Studios Instagram: @4frontstudios

Greater Than Zero Percent Website: https://www.gtzp.org/

Greater Than Zero Percent Instagram: @greaterthanzeropercent

Vince Danh Sioux Falls Business Journal Feature

Loyola University Chicago Website: https://www.luc.edu/

KOTO (Know One Teach One) Website: https://www.koto.com.au/

Anthony Bourdain: https://explorepartsunknown.com/

Pho Quynh Vietnamese Restaurant Website: https://phoquynhsf.com/

Vaney Hariri and Think 3D Solutions Website: https://letsthink3d.com/

Alterations and Tailoring by Lee and Company Website: http://alterationsbylee.com/

Tarquin Argentinian Restaurant Instagram: @tarquin_sf

Yummy House Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Cantonese-Restaurant/Yummy-House-589940278336629/

Lunar New Year

YouTube Lilith Fair Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?list=RDQMwRbBbW9dFIY&start_radio=1&v=3s1bZLh4mJA

Tom Holland and Zendaya Relationship: https://www.popsugar.com/celebrity/photo-gallery/48632570/image/48632576/Everything-Zendaya-Tom-Holland-Have-Said-About-Their-Friendship

Tracy and Rachel celebrate the Season 4 finale of Isn’t it Lovely? by welcoming Sioux Falls Christian Elementary School Principal Dr. Kym Johnston to the podcast! A daughter and granddaughter of educators, Kym reflects on a passion for education that dates back to playing school as a little girl, reveals how the belief of a leader inspired her dream and goal of becoming a principal, and offers encouragement to those walking through seasons of discomfort and growth. Tracy and Kym discuss the double-edged sword of increased technology in the classroom and how to utilize it to better enhance, yet not replace, instruction, while Rachel marvels at Kym’s ability to greet every student (and their siblings) by name in below-zero temperatures at morning drop-off while looking like a million dollars. Kym models ways to demonstrate to your professional team that you trust and care about them and reminds us that all children seek to feel safe and loved. Tracy and Rachel request advice for helping children embrace imagination and empathy, while also learning the finer points of South Dakota’s geography, despite combined decades of living in the Mount Rushmore State.

Episode Mentions:

Sioux Falls Christian School Website: https://www.siouxfallschristian.org/

Psalm 46 (NIV)

Sephora: https://www.sephora.com/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/

Don’t Give the Enemy a Seat at Your Table: It’s Time to Win the Battle of Your Mind… by Louie Giglio

It’s Not Supposed to Be This Way by Lysa TerKeurst

Daughter of the Reich: A Novel by Louise Fein

Look’s Marketplace: https://www.looksmarket.com/

Good Pictures, Bad Pictures by Kristen A. Jenson and Debbie Fox

Good Pictures, Bad Pictures Jr. Kristen A. Jenson and Debbie Fox

It’s a celebration of collaboration and empathy as Isn’t it Lovely? welcomes community leader Rich Merkouris to the podcast! After reflecting on a childhood that encouraged outreach, Rich identifies the life-changing moment a casual joke to a college professor set him on a trajectory to engage with his community in a personal way. Rich and Tracy discuss the notion of holy discontent and the ways the entrepreneurial spirit thrives in the nonprofit/service sector — and when it’s equally vital to set individual ideas down to creatively partner with others. Rich and Rachel explore the importance of humanizing social issues, preserving dignity, and challenging personal biases to compassionately acknowledge the complex dynamics of addiction, mental health, and accessibility. In an inspiring call to action, Rich reminds listeners that the core issue for so many individuals is hope and that success doesn’t have to be either/or; it can be both/and. Rachel and Tracy conclude the episode with a years in the making love letter to Sioux Falls, its people, and…its airport.

Episode Mentions:

Rich Merkouris Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/richmerkouris/

Empower Sioux Falls Website: https://www.empowersiouxfalls.com/

Randell Beck

Sioux Falls Hope Coalition - https://www.sfhopecoalition.org/

211 Helpline Center - https://www.helplinecenter.org/

Jacky’s Restaurant - http://www.jackysrestaurants.com/

Sioux Falls, South Dakota

Sioux Falls Regional Airport -https://www.sfairport.com/

Be inspired to change the world as Tracy and Rachel welcome Washington D.C. powerhouse Michelle Bekkering to the podcast! Sharing powerful illustrations and real-life experiences from a career that has taken her around the globe, Michelle champions both emotions and economics as tools to invite listeners to adopt a global perspective in uplifting and empowering girls and women. Tracy and Michelle discuss the power of storytelling and open, respectful communication, as well as the importance of being culturally and contextually aware and challenging unintentional arrogance in the search for common ground. Rachel and Michelle address the value of also finding local partners and embracing change in one’s own backyard through holding the hand of the person you are helping. Rachel feels connected to the woman in Jordan running for Parliament who recognized the value of a well-timed wink; Tracy ponders incorporating Michelle as the third Isn’t it Lovely? podcast host.

Episode Mentions:

Michelle Bekkering at the US Global Leadership Coalition: https://www.usglc.org/staff/michelle-bekkering/

Michelle Bekkering’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-bekkering-11b77684/

EmBe’s Website: https://www.embe.org/

EmBe’s Instagram: @embesf

Multi-Cultural Center of Sioux Falls Website: https://sfmcc.org

Tracy and Rachel are equal parts trepidatious and joyful to unveil Isn’t it Lovely?’s very first holiday special! Snuggled into Tracy’s dining room and surrounded by Yuletide splendor, Tracy and Rachel quickly discover how challenging it is to interview…each other. Featuring special segments including a lightning round of Christmas questions and a holiday-themed What We’re Loving This Week, the episode ultimately shines a light on what is most lovely of all: Isn’t it Lovely’s extraordinary guests and incredible listeners.

Episode Mentions:

White Christmas Movie

A Charlie Brown Christmas

O Holy Night by Music Travel Love

O Come O Come Emmanuel by Lauren Daigle

Last Christmas

The Christmas Shoes

Frosted Sugar Cookies

The Beatles

The Story of the Birth of Jesus

Katie Twedt, owner of FORM Fitness Studio + Boutique, radiates energy and light on the podcast during a positive and inclusive conversation about health and wellness. Acknowledging, yet gently deconstructing, the guilt and shame that can surround these topics, Katie instead models grace and acceptance, encouraging an examination of health markers other than a clothing size or number of the scale, including energy, sleep, relationships, and more. Rachel is delighted to learn that Katie is almost singlehandedly responsible (in the eyes of Isn’t it Lovely?) for the flourishing of Lululemon clothing in Sioux Falls, while Tracy thanks Katie for helping her embrace biker shorts.

Episode Mentions:

FORM Fitness Studio + Boutique Website: https://www.formfitnessboutique.com/

FORM Fitness Studio + Boutique Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/formfitnessboutique/?hl=en

American Girls Podcast:https://www.americangirlspod.com

Blow Dryer Brush:https://www.ulta.com/p/volumizer-4-in-1-blowout-brush-pimprod2019104?sku=2571341

Make way for BIG Tracy and Rachel energy in this episode as they are completely honored and wildly enthused to be joined by Sioux Falls Police Chief Jon Thum. Chief Thum brings his signature character and integrity to the conversation as he discusses a worldview and a law enforcement approach that is both empathetic and respectful and one that seeks to restore dignity of all parties involved. Along the way he emphasizes the importance of bridge-building among the city’s many communities, agencies, and leaders and commends Sioux Falls as being a leader in such collaboration. Tracy and Rachel learn that the road to becoming chief of police does not, in fact, involve the use of campaign yard signs, while Chief Thum reminds Rachel of their shared past in middle school youth ministry. While promoting Novem-burn, the city’s fundraiser and awareness campaign for Operation Hope, Chief Thum acknowledges the timeless fashion influence of Beverly Hills 90210 on his own personal look and reveals the fateful day his signature sideburns were bested by his grandmother and a pair of clippers. He also explains how a past stint as the University of Sioux Falls Choir Chaplain led to a devotional about which light to follow, an anecdote that points back to his own decision to change course from an early career in business to pursue a calling to a life of service. Lastly, Chief Thum and Tracy feel kinship over their shared love of Mexican food and Rachel and Tracy unabashedly and, of course, enthusiastically invite Chief Thum back to a be a regular guest.

Episode Mentions:

Novem-burn for Hope Fundraiser: https://www.argusleader.com/story/news/2021/11/04/sioux-falls-police-chief-sideburns-fundraiser-novemburn-operation-hope-movember/6272739001/

Operation Hope: https://www.sfacf.org/news/operation-hope-fund-to-help-improve-continuum-of-care

The Link: https://www.linksf.org/

Sioux Falls Police Department: https://www.siouxfalls.org/police

Beverly Hills 90210 Sideburns: https://www.today.com/style/luke-perry-s-sideburns-are-part-what-made-him-star-t149807

Giliberto’s Mexican Taco Shop: https://gilibertos.com

Abelardo’s Mexican Fresh: http://www.abelardosmexicanfood.com

Azteca Family Restaurant: http://www.azteca-sd.com

Jacky’s Restaurant: http://www.jackysrestaurants.com

Inca Authentic Mexican Restaurant: http://www.incamexicanrestaurantsf.com

Morrie’s Steakhouse: https://www.morriessteakhouse.com

Chick-fil-A Sioux Falls: https://www.chick-fil-a.com/locations/sd/empire-place-sd

Tracy and Rachel are honored to sit down with Emmy Award-winning journalist and devoted mother Angela Kennecke for a deeply moving conversation about her beautiful daughter Emily and the extraordinary light she brought to the world. A radiant light with the tender heart and sensitive spirit of an artist, Emily embraced and celebrated each day, until her life was tragically cut short by fentanyl poisoning. Motivated by her unending love for her daughter, Angela founded the Emily’s Hope Foundation, whose mission is to remove the stigma of substance use disorder through awareness, education, and prevention; and removing financial barriers for treatment and recovery. In addition to pledging $100,000 for adolescent treatment scholarships and $250,000 for adult treatment scholarships at the Sioux Falls-based Avera Addiction Care Center (with 150 people having received those scholarships to date), Emily’s Hope is also pioneering an education initiative for a K-12 prevention curriculum that focuses on the whole child and includes lesson plans, literature, and an animated series. With grace and empathy, Angela discusses the choice to remain open-hearted after unimaginable loss, her passion to replace judgment with compassion, how her gift of storytelling is both therapeutic personally, while also enabling others to fully realize human connections, and how consistently love has shown up in her life as her community surrounded her to carry on Emily’s legacy.

Episode Mentions:

Emily’s Hope Foundation Website: https://www.emilyshope.foundation/

Emily’s Hope Foundation Instagram: @emilyshope_

Emily’s Hope Foundation Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emilyshopefoundation

Grieving Out Loud Podcast: https://www.emilyshope.foundation/grieving-out-loud

Angela’s Blog: https://www.emilyshope.foundation/angelas-blog

Emily’s Hope Art Show and Auction: https://www.emilyshope.foundation/new-events

Avera Addiction Care Center: https://www.avera.org/locations/profile/avera-addiction-care-center-sioux-falls/

KELO’s Gene Coyle Purple Heart News Story: https://www.keloland.com/news/gene-coyle-to-receive-purple-heart/

Rachel and Tracy catapult into Season 4 by welcoming Kerri Tietgen, CEO of EmBe (formerly Sioux Falls’ YWCA), to the podcast for a powerful conversation encompassing everything from being a “student of stories and people” to transforming a community. Kerri discusses growing up in a family that modeled identifying community needs and creating impactful solutions, and also shares the inspiration she derives simply by listening to and valuing people’s stories. Kerri and Tracy discuss growing up as Asian American women and what representation in media means to them and the unifying nature for everyone of being “an only”. Kerri passionately reveals EmBe’s newly revised and refocused vision and values, while inviting listeners to be agents of change in their communities. Tracy uses the term “beautiful” approximately 1,300 times. Rachel reflects on the 100-year history of EmBe and suggests closing out the episode with a Spice Girls song.

Episode Mentions:

EmBe’s Instagram: @embesf

EmBe’s Website: https://www.embe.org/

The Joy Luck Club

Crazy Rich Asians

The Book of Longings by Sue Monk Kidd

Maid Netflix Miniseries

Jessica Shakir Website: https://www.thebeautifulmindacademy.com/

Jessica Shakir Instagram: @jessicashakirbeauty

Fallen Angel: The Victoria’s Secret Story Podcast

It’s three cheers for the red, white, and blue as Tracy and Rachel welcome favorite Patriot (and future President!) Luke Lindberg to the podcast for a conversation about public service, mentorship, and faith.

Christened by one of his own mentors as “driven, but not competitive”, Luke discusses the importance of partnering with and investing in others to achieve maximum positive impact and shares how having his own mission statement has guided him through countless personal and professional opportunities, including experiences traveling the world with the Export-Import Bank of the United States and serving in his current position as the Head of Global Strategy for Sanford Health. Tracy and Rachel consider a world in which Luke’s mascot could be an Eagle named Freedom, while all three enjoy a more serious deep dive in the What We’re Loving This Week portion of the podcast.

Episode Mentions:

Luke Lindberg’s Instagram: @lukejlindberg

The Abraham Accords https://www.state.gov/the-abraham-accords/

Necessary Endings by Henry Cloud

The Rose Code by Kate Quinn

This Land Podcast Season 2

Grab a coffee or a glass of wine, your current Kindle read or favorite paperback, and pull up a chair - it’s time for Season 3’s BONUS episode: a book club party of four as Tracy and Rachel welcome real life book group soulmates and resident bibliophiles Ashley Holen and Alli Veldhouse to discuss their shared passion for all things literary, covering everything from reading as self-care (and how to carve out the time!) to books being used as catalysts for deeper connection, conversation, and education.

“We just commit to actually doing it and somehow a lot of these things have come to life.”

Two local masters of creativity, business owners, and fellow podcasters, Vaney Hariri and Alana Snyder join Rachel and Tracy for this uproarious episode that hits as somewhat of a whimsical love letter to South Dakota. Friends and co-hosts of the 605 Show, Alana and Vaney muse over how and when they became creative colleagues and how it happened so naturally, they might not even remember the actual story. Vaney discusses the idea that when you’re your best you, everyone benefits and Alana details her many travels across South Dakota in her car. Alana and Vaney describe a few of their many creative capers together and admonish all of us that we have an important role to play in our thriving community. Rachel wishes we could join podcast forces, dress in disguise and do an exposé on the Sioux City, Iowa road construction, Alana tells of her small brush with the law in relation to the Crazy Horse Monument, while all four agree it is no wonder everyone mispronounces the capital city of Pierre. And in true Isn’t it Lovely? podcast form, Rachel does not have a mic stand (Tracy misplaced it) so holds her mic freestyle à la Freddie Mercury the entirety of the episode.

Episode Mentions:

605 Summer Classic: https://605magazine.com/605-summer-classic/

The 605 Show: https://605magazine.com/the-605-show/

605’s We Are the World: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q3Gc6vpfxE0

Sioux City Ongoing Highway Construction: https://www.news.iowadot.gov/newsandinfo/district_3northwest/

Crazy Horse: https://crazyhorsememorial.org/

Black Hills Wild Horse Sanctuary: https://www.wildmustangs.com/

605 Magazine: https://605magazine.com/

605 Creative Co: https://605creativeco.com/

605 Cabin: https://www.blackhillsadventurelodging.com/vacation-rentals/605-cabin#.YT7CC9NKjOQ

Instagram: @itsyaboyv @think3dsolutions @605magazine @605creativeco

“I believe that life is full of hard stuff and you can either shy away from it…or you can lean into it.”

A few months ago, the Isn’t it Lovely? podcast put forth a call on Instagram asking for suggestions for future guests. Many wonderful nominations were submitted, but requests to hear from Sioux Falls-based award-winning teacher, mother, and friend Alison (Ali) Ter Horst won by a landslide. Coincidentally, years ago when Rachel and Tracy were dreaming up the Isn’t it Lovely? podcast, Ali also topped their wishlist of guests. Thus, Rachel and Tracy are humbled and honored to welcome Ali to their very first audience request episode for a conversation about the unexpected milestones in her life that include grief, loss, joy, surprise, and no small amount of wonder. Ali shares her story with an abundance of grace and hopeful wisdom that literally leaves Tracy and Rachel speechless before christening Ali a prophetess by the end of the episode.

Episode Mentions:

Ali Ter Horst’s Blog -http://ohmydearone.blogspot.com/

Ali Ter Horst’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aliterhorst/

Milken Educator Awards - https://www.milkeneducatorawards.org/

Local news story on Ali winning Milken Educator Award: https://www.keloland.com/news/education/washingtons-alison-ter-horst-earns-25000-milken-educator-award/

“I realize that the more people that you can befriend that are going in the same direction as you … you move faster together.”

Respected and adored Sioux Falls-based photographer, business owner, and photography mentor/coach Ashley Buckley captivates Rachel and Tracy in this energetic episode with her inclusive and inspiring business (and life!) model. As an entrepreneur, wife, mother of four, and creative, Ashley talks about what “lights her up” and how she has learned that there is enough space for everyone to have success. Rachel asks Ashley how her past life as a celebrated college volleyball player and coach informs her “community over competition” mindset, while Tracy and Ashley discuss how it is possible to have many passions and gifts, and love our kids well all at the same time. And, of course, it wouldn’t be an episode of Isn’t it Lovely? without multiples references to the Enneagram.

Episode Mentions:

Ashley Buckley’s Instagram: @ashleybuckleyphotography

Ashley Buckley’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AshleyBuckleyPhotography/

Ashley Buckley’s Website: http://ashleybuckley.com/

RHYS + CO. Creative Studio and Small Event Space Instagram: @rhyscompany.com

RHYS + CO. Creative Studio and Small Event Space Website: rhyscompany.as.me

Vacation Rental: Cedar Ridge Hideaway, Yankton, SD

The Road Back to You by Ian Morgan Cron and Suzanne Stabile

Rupi Kaur: https://rupikaur.com/

Rupi Kaur Poem: women have been starved of space for so long/when one of us finally makes it into the arena/we get scared that another woman/will take our spot/but space doesn’t work like that/look at all the men in the arena getting stronger/as their numbers multiply/more women in the arena means/more room for all of us to rise

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 (NIV Version): Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor. If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.

Open Space Event Hall Website: https://www.openspaceforrent.com/

Open Space Event Hall Instagram: @openspacesiouxfalls

Following a years-long love affair with Look’s Marketplace, an iconic Sioux Falls institution, Rachel and Tracy are elated to welcome co-owner Nick Heineman to the podcast to discuss the history, values, and other behind the scenes tidbits of this beloved market. Nick shares how, together with his fellow owner (and cousin!) Beau Vondra, they assembled a talented team and expanded the business from 4,000 to 17,000 square feet to include a butchery, specialty grocery store, deli, restaurant, bakery, brewery, and creamery…a mere four months before a worldwide pandemic turned everything upside down. Nick talks about the resiliency and strength of his staff and the loyalty of customers, while Tracy celebrates Look’s Marketplace’s featured spot on The Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives. Rachel confesses to almost crashing someone’s job interview to tell them how much they will love working at Look’s, before realizing that, despite her frequent visits, she is not, in fact, a Look’s employee.

Episode Mentions:

Look’s Marketplace Website: https://www.looksmarket.com/

Look’s Marketplace Instagram: @looksmarketsf

Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives episode "Savory Meat and Little Sweet" https://www.foodnetwork.com/shows/diners-drive-ins-and-dives/episodes/savory-meat-and-a-little-sweet

Quote: “Help like you want to be helped.” - Basketball Announcing Team Mike Breen, Mark Jackson, and Jeff Van Gundy

Marriott Bonvoy App

Open Space Event Hall Website: https://www.openspaceforrent.com/

Open Space Event Hall Instagram: @openspacesiouxfalls

Tracy and Rachel are thrilled to kick off Season 3 of the podcast by welcoming Kaylee Koch to the studio for a candid conversation about the life-changing power of a faith journey. Kaylee shares how a more personal relationship with God transformed the way she sees herself, her relationships, and her life. Through her story she encourages listeners that they can love themselves because they were created by a God who loves them and wants them to embrace and experience that love. The three women rhapsodize over Bible teacher and author Jennie Allen, as Rachel once again finds herself recording in a chair that slowly lowers itself to the ground of its own accord.

Episode Mentions:

Kaylee Koch’s Instagram: @kayleemaykoch

Theolaby Book Series

Talking with God: What to Say When You Don’t Know How to Pray by Adam Weber

Jennie Allen Instagram: @jenniesallen

Jennie Allen’s Made For This Podcast

So Long, Insecurity: You’ve Been a Bad Friend to Us by Beth Moore

Present Over Perfect: Leaving Behind Frantic for a Simpler, More Soulful Way of Living by Shauna Niequist

The Last Thing He Told Me by Laura Dave

Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Universal Lip Luminizer

Open Space Event Hall Website: https://www.openspaceforrent.com/

Open Space Event Hall Instagram: @openspacesiouxfalls

In this light, fun, and supersized bonus episode, Rachel and Tracy throwback to the 80’s and 90’s featuring special guest and pop culture expert Adam Norenberg! Adam and Rachel proudly sing the concluding lines of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles theme song, while Tracy reveals the life-changing moment she discovered Degrassi Junior High in her middle school health class. Rachel acknowledges her undying and slightly problematic love of Saved by the Bell heartthrob Zack Morris, Adam and Tracy discuss the CDs that shaped their adolescence, and all three dive into music, movies, and more in the Season 2 Finale of Isn’t it Lovely?

Episode Mentions:

Abercrombie - www.abercrombie.com

Rywka's Diary: The Writings of a Jewish Girl from the Lodz Ghetto by Rywka Lipszyc and Anita Friedman

Ninja Rap Vanilla Ice Music Video - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R_K6971WmAs

Cell Phone in a Bag - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Motorola_Bag_Phone#:~:text=The%20Motorola%20Bag%20Phone%20is,from%201988%20to%202000.

Open Space Event Hall Website: https://www.openspaceforrent.com/

In the penultimate episode of Season 2, Tracy and Rachel are thrilled to sit down for a long-awaited conversation with national business owner, philanthropist, and dear friend, Rory Kelly. After being christened a “local folk hero” less than a minute into the recording session, Rory delves into his past, sharing the pivotal moments and life lessons that led him to embrace faith, family, and a passion to give back to his community.

Episode Mentions:

Cell Only: https://cell-only.com/

Rapport Leadership International: https://www.rapportleadership.com/

The Attributes of God by A.W. Tozer

Empire of Pain: The Secret History of the Sackler Dynasty by Patrick Radden Keefe

Open Space Event Hall Website: https://www.openspaceforrent.com/

Open Space Event Hall Instagram: @openspacesiouxfalls

Tracy and Rachel feel like they are at a comedy show as they sit across from a true power couple, Tim and Megan Meagher. Tim and Megan walk us all through the many twists and turns of how they met and how they eventually became co-owners of Vanguard Hospitality — a group that owns some of the most well-known and beloved restaurants in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Rachel fangirls over Tim’s time as a musician and driving a Firebird and Tracy fangirls over a woman named Wendy who almost made Tim cry in her wine-teaching methods. We also learn of Megan’s almost-FBI past and how truly difficult the COVID pandemic was for the restaurant industry, but how Vanguard’s incredible staff rose to the challenge. Don’t miss the bonus segment at the end to hear an uproarious tale of how Tim saved a bird!

Episode Notes:

Vanguard Hospitality: http://www.vanguardhospitality.com/

Minervas Downtown: https://www.facebook.com/MinervasDTSF/?fref=ts

Morries Steakhouse: https://www.facebook.com/MorriesSteakhouse

Paramount Cocktails and Food: https://www.facebook.com/Paramount-Cocktails-Food-1900807546909058

Grille 26 by Minervas: https://www.facebook.com/grille26

Open Space Events: https://www.openspaceforrent.com/

After becoming fast friends during a professional consultation in which he gently informed Tracy and Rachel that they were using their microphones completely wrong, musician and producer Scott Jibben visits the podcast to share how he transformed his lifelong passion for music into a career that includes writing and producing original material, as well as founding and running the Pulse River Recording Studio. Tracy inquires about finding inspiration and feeding creativity regardless of geographical location, while Rachel ponders christening Pulse River, “Little Studio on the Prairie”. Scott debuts Ghosts, his brand new instrumental album that dropped on May 8, 2021, and all three celebrate their shared love of the track, If I Could Hear Your Voice Again.

Episode Notes:

Scott Jibben’s Website: https://scottjibben.com/

Scott Jibben’s Instagram: @sdjibben

Al Berven’s Website: http://www.alsdrums.com/

Al Berven’s Instagram: @alberven

Electric Pulp Web Design, App Development, and Digital Marketing: https://www.electricpulp.com/

Stefan Hartwig’s Instagram: @stefanhartwig

Billie Eilish: https://www.billieeilish.com/

A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles

The Midnight Library by Matt Haig

Leela and Lavender Women’s Fashion and Gift Boutique: https://www.leelaandlavender.com/

Open Space Event Hall Website: https://www.openspaceforrent.com/

Open Space Event Hall Instagram: @openspacesiouxfalls

Tracy and Rachel feel as though they are on holy ground as they welcome Call to Freedom founder Becky Rasmussen to the studio for a life-changing conversation about providing healing, restoration, and empowerment to victims and survivors of human trafficking. Becky shares the many tremendous ways Call to Freedom fights for the vulnerable and, with grace and empathy, offers education and encouragement for the Sioux Falls and greater South Dakota communities to advocate for this important cause. Becky also gives the incredible story of how she came to lead Call to Freedom and powerfully exalts anyone with a call on their life from God to trust they are in the best of hands.

Episode Mentions:

Call to Freedom’s Website: https://www.calltofreedom.org/

Call to Freedom’s Instagram: @calltofreedomsd

Call to Freedom’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/calltofreedomsd/

Open Space Event Hall Website: https://www.openspaceforrent.com/

Open Space Event Hall Instagram: @openspacesiouxfalls

Exodus 33:14 “And my prescence shall go with you and I will give you rest.”

Tracy and Rachel welcome local children’s book author Ashley Flynn to the podcast for a conversation about her experiences balancing multiple career opportunities with her growing family, a journey that led to the inspiration for her first book, My Favorite Job is You, a love letter to mothers everywhere. Ashley discusses the creative ways she carved out time in her busy schedule to write and shares the ways her priorities have shifted over the years. Tracy and Rachel marvel over Ashley’s postpartum superpower of rhyming, while Ashley changes everyone’s lives by introducing them to The Nap Dress.

Episode Mentions:

My Favorite Job is You by Ashley Flynn

Ashley Flynn’s Website: https://www.flynnstorytelling.com/

Ashley Flynn’s Instagram: @flynnstorytelling

The Nap Dress

Target’s Stars Above Pajamas

Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey

The Sampson House: https://the sampsonhouse.com/

Open Space Event Hall Website: https://www.openspaceforrent.com/

Open Space Event Hall Instagram: @openspacesiouxfalls

Tracy and Rachel are thrilled to welcome dear friend and honorary life coach Laura Santos to the podcast. Laura shares what led to her family’s decision to homeschool and pulls back the curtain on the highs and occasional lows of a home-centered lifestyle choice. Laura acknowledges the superpower that is a supportive and egalitarian partner, as well as the agency her children have in their educational choices. Tracy is recovering from Lasik eye surgery and conducts the entire interview in a pair of glamorous Elizabeth Taylor sunglasses; Rachel discovers too late that her chair is positioned alarmingly low to the ground and tries not to feel too much like a child at the grown-ups’ table.

Episode Mentions:

Let Me Hold You Longer by Karen Kingsbury

Open Road Summer by Emery Lord

Daisy Jones and the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid

Vance Thompson Vision: https://vancethompsonvision.com

Open Space Event Hall Website: https://www.openspaceforrent.com

Open Space Event Hall Instagram: @openspacesiouxfalls

Despite the technical equipment repeatedly crashing, Rachel and Tracy share a mic and sit across from Becky Weber as she discusses her personal experience with mental health, antidepressants and the intersection of it all with faith, marriage, relationships, and parenting. This raw, beautiful, and practical conversation sheds light on what it is like to grapple with depression and how to be supportive and empathetic to others.

Despite our technical equipment crashing on us, Rachel and Tracy share a mic and sit across from Becky Weber as she discusses her personal experience with mental health, antidepressants and the intersection of it all with faith, marriage, relationships, and parenting. This raw, beautiful, and practical conversation sheds light on what it is like to grapple with depression and how to be supportive and empathetic to others.

Episode Mentions:

Sioux Falls Mental Health Guide: https://www.helplinecenter.org/2-1-1-community-resources/resource-guides/sioux-falls-mental-health-guide/

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration: https://www.samhsa.gov/find-treatment

Becky Weber’s Instagram: @becweber

Becky Weber’s Website: https://becweber.wordpress.com/

The Road Back to You: An Enneagram Journey to Self-Discovery by Ian Morgan Cron and Suzanne Stabile

Share Your Stuff. I’ll Go First. by Laura Tremaine

Open Space Event Hall Website: https://www.openspaceforrent.com/

Open Space Event Hall Instagram: @openspacesiouxfalls

There is no shortage of laughter in this conversation as Rachel and Tracy spend a morning with Raena Rasmussen discussing her drive and energy as she runs multiple businesses, dances in all stages of life, and nurtures a beautiful family. Raena discusses friendship within business partnerships. Leotards are mentioned an inordinate number of times. Rachel and Tracy openly wonder if it’s too late for Raena to be placed on the Presidential ballot.

Bonus Material Raena tells the incredible and made-for-the-big screen story of how she and her husband met and fell in love. Rachel wonders which actor would play Raena’s husband, and Tracy begs a screenwriter to write the script for this Romantic Comedy. Warning! Unedited laughter.

Episode Mentions:

Expressing Motherhood: https://expressingmotherhood.com/

Quote: “An object in motion stays in motion”

The Nightingale: A Novel by Kristin Hannah

Shipt: https://shop.shipt.com/login

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raena4006/

MOVE Boutique: https://moveboutique.shopsettings.com/

MOVE Boutique Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moveboutiquesf/

Refuel Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/refuelsf/

Move Competition & Convention: https://www.movecompetition.com/

Move Competition and Convention Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/movecompetition/

Balleraena Dance Studio: https://www.balleraenadancestudio.com/

Balleraena Dance Studtio Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/balleraena_dance/

LiRa Dance Theatre Company: https://www.liradancetheatrecompany.com/

LiRa Dance Theatre Company Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lira_dance_company/

Sour Patch drink at Refuel

Rachel and Tracy are thrilled to welcome Charlie and Carrie Sanders to the podcast for an uplifting, hopeful conversation focused on identity, reconciliation, and the power of empathy. Rachel says the word “beautiful” approximately 97 times and ponders purchasing a thesaurus. Tracy and Carrie press into the importance of questions, education, and “getting outside of ourselves’ as “we’re here together.” Rachel and Tracy learn that Charlie and Carrie recently celebrated a decade of marriage and offer to officiate a vow renewal, despite a stunning lack of qualifications.

Episode Mentions:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisisholyground/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisisholyground_/

Kingdom Night at Tre Ministries: https://www.treministries.org/

TW: This episode discusses infertility, pregnancy loss, and infant loss.

Tracy and Rachel spend a morning listening to the incredible life story of Megan Bartel. Rachel passes around tissues; Tracy uses the term “high lows” and realizes she needs speech lessons. Megan discusses how she survived childhood cancer, as well as her grief process after the loss of her baby boy Briar Steven just weeks before he was due to be born. Megan provides amazing insight into both navigating grief and supporting others in their grief. Everyone fangirls over Brené Brown and hopes she is listening.

Episode Mentions:

Francis Chan: http://crazylove.org/

Brené Brown: https://brenebrown.com/

Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center: https://www.avera.org/locations/mckennan/

Cuddle Cots: https://www.avera.org/balance/pregnancy-and-birth/cuddlecot-allows-precious-moments-with-late-child/

Briar Blessings: https://www.facebook.com/briarblessings/

Megan’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mbartel0620/

Hours before they catch a flight home to Colorado, Jimmy and Lauren Masters detail the years in the making love story of becoming adoptive parents to their youngest son. Rachel and Tracy join Jimmy in agreement that Lauren is the best; Jimmy and Lauren detail their individual journeys to saying “yes” to fostering and then watching as, “God penned the story.” From getting the initial call about a baby in the NICU to a moment in the courtroom with the biological mother, and so much more, by the end of their story there is not a dry eye in the studio. Jimmy and Lauren conclude by giving advice and encouragement to those feeling that same the nudge to foster and/or adopt.

Episode Mentions:

Matthew 17:20 (NIV) He replied, “Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.”

1 Samuel 12:16 (NIV) Now then, stand still and see this great thing the Lord is about to do before your eyes!

Ephesians 6:12 (NIV) For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.

Psalms 27:13 (NIV) I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.

Tracy and Rachel welcome sisters and entrepreneurs Kayla Thompson and Erin Rallis of Marie and Marie Bridal for a conversation about pursuing dreams and goals, finding balance, and creating a beautiful and meaningful client experience. Kayla and Erin praise their supportive families and honor each other’s strengths; Tracy and Rachel make 90’s references and consider buying wedding dresses for their day-to-day lives.

Episode Mentions:

Website: https://marieandmariebridal.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marieandmariebridal/

Silk Pumpkin Spice Almond Creamer (Seasonal Product)

Queen City Bakery: https://queencitybakery.com

The Experience Economy, With a New Preface by the Authors: Competing for Customer Time, Attention, and Money by B. Joseph Pine II and James H. Gilmore

SSR Podcast: https://www.ssrpodcast.com

Cobra Kai on Netflix

Palpable joy, energy, and passion permeate the studio as Rachel and Tracy welcome Gretchen Shafer to the show. Gretchen shares her love for the country and people of Haiti, as well as her journey with cancer and how both transformed her perception of motherhood and life. Rachel submits her wish to crown Gretchen Prom Queen of Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Gretchen details how her trips to Haiti began and how the Haitian people have become her family. She discusses holding both worlds — Haiti and the United States— at once and how love, truly, can conquer all. Gretchen adoringly hassles Tracy over her wearing of “Grandma Goggle Chains.”

Episode Mentions:

Life 96.5 - https://life965.com/

Mission Haiti - https://www.mission-haiti.org/

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NLT) “Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.”

“It is not how much we do, but how much love we put into the doing.” Mother Theresa

Simba Educational Ministries - https://www.simbaministries.org/

Ignite Fitness Studio - http://ignitefitness.studio/

Glasses Chains - https://www.amazon.com/KAI-Top-Tortoise-Eyeglasses-Sunglasses/dp/B0899GXL1X

None

Tracy and Rachel welcome pastor and author Adam Weber for a conversation about authenticity, vulnerability, and empathy. Adam encourages us to love intentionally and embrace brokenness and kindness; Tracy and Rachel fangirl over his wife Becky and extol the groundbreaking virtues of…coffee.

Episode Mentions:

Website: adamweber.com

Instagram: instagram.com/adamaweber/

Love Has a Name: Learning to Love the Different, the Difficult, and Everyone Else by Adam Weber

Irish Twins Soap Company: https://www.irishtwinssoaps.com

koffiestraw.com

Coffea Roasterie: https://coffearoasterie.com

Season 1 Trailer for the "Isn't it Lovely?" Podcast.