She Chose Joy with Melanie: Recent Episodes

Melanie Foote-Davis

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Melanie Foote-Davis and Emmy Beeson explore the conceptof toxic productivity and its impact on personal and professional wellness.Emmy shares her journey from a high-pressure leadership role to embracing mindfulness and self-care, emphasizing the importance of creating conditionsfor growth and collaboration in leadership. They discuss the significance of rest, emotional health, and the need for leaders to model healthier behaviors.The conversation highlights practical tools for finding joy and gratitude in everyday life, ultimately advocating for a more harmonious and aligned approach personally and professionally.

Chapters

00:00 Embracing Change: The Passage of Time

04:03 Awareness and Decision-Making: A Shift inPerspective

08:04 Toxic Productivity: Breaking Free from the Cycle

11:01 Recognizing Patterns: The Body's Signals

14:03 Creating Healthier Work Environments

17:00 Mindfulness and Presence: The Gift of Awareness

20:07 Leadership and Cultural Expectations: A NewApproach

23:16 Transformative Experiences: Learning from Nature

26:20 Creating Conditions for Success: IntentionalLeadership

36:27 Unraveling the Knots: A Journey to Freedom

41:21 Listening to the Body: The Importance of Awareness

46:39 Creating Conditions for Growth: Leadership andResponsibility

01:00:50 Finding Joy and Gratitude: Embracing the Present

01:08:25 Building Safe Spaces: Nurturing Relationships

More about Emmy Beeson

Emmy Beeson is an executive leadership coach with over 20 years of experience guiding middle and senior-level leaders to navigate change, lead with authenticity, and build high-performing teams. As a former CEO and Superintendent in both K-12 and Career Technical Planning Districts, Emmyunderstands the complexities of leadership — from managing multi-million dollar budgets to balancing community expectations — and brings that real-worldinsight into her coaching practice.

Emmy specializes in helping leaders grow their personal andprofessional wellness while building practical strategies for time management, delegation, and organizational change. Emmy is a Board Certified Coach with an Executive Leadership Coaching Certification from Bellevue University.

Her background in career-technical education gives her a unique perspective on bridging the gap between education and industry, helping leaders create meaningful change that lasts. Emmy’s passion lies in uncovering shared visions, building capacity for growth, and supporting leaders in embracingtheir authenticity.

​Emmy holds degrees and licenses from Ohio Dominican University, the University of Findlay, and Ashland University. Whether guiding executives through organizational transformation or helping individuals rediscover theirpurpose, she is committed to equipping leaders with the skills and mindset to thrive.

Connect with Emmy

Emmy Beeson, The Change Coach

Emmy’s The Toxic Productivity Culture blog

Linkedin.com/in/emmy-beeson

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In this enlightening conversation, Melanie Foote-Davis and Barbara Burgess explore the themes of self-discovery, joy, and the importance of setting boundaries. Barbara shares her journey of embracing 'enough' and how simple moments, like achalk experience with children, can lead to profound insights. They discuss the power of giving and receiving, the challenges of perfectionism, and the art of saying no to create space for what truly matters. The conversation emphasizes the importance of authenticity, gratitude, and choosing joy in everyday life, encouraging listeners to embrace their own journeys of self-discovery and connection.

Chapters

00:00 The Chalk Experience: A Journey Begins

09:27 The Power of Play and Connection

14:55 Gracious Giving: Gives Back to the Giver

21:36 Courageously Vulnerable

30:36 Navigating Relationships and Boundaries

37:09 Embracing Imperfection and Growth

38:19 Sovereignty and Personal Authority

41:18 The Allure of Authentic Experience

46:28 Navigating Boundaries: The Power of No

51:39 Audit Your Energy Inventory

57:55 Delightfully Be With Other Human Beings

More About Barbara Burgess

Barbara Burgess is an author, mother, executive, and unapologetic dark-chocolate lover who’s embraced the beautiful messiness of life. She founded Corluma (cor =heart, luma = light), a Chicago-based consulting firm, wrote and performed a one-woman show “The Extraordinary Experience of Being Ordinary” and most recently wrote her first book, Enough: Finding Peace in a World of Distractions, Hustle, and Expectations.

Known for her humor, vulnerability, and practical wisdom, Barbara shares simple shifts to help people remember they are enough and have enough. Her ego is kept in healthy check by two teenage children and career adventures that includedselling candy bars for Nestle Foods, launching Grainger into internet commerce, a brief marketing stint at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, and most recently overseeing operations, marketing, and finances as the COO of a non-profit. Like all of us, Barbara says, she’s still figuring it out.

Connect with Barbara

Website: www.corluma.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/barbaraburgess1Book: www.beenough.com

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In this engaging conversation, Melanie Foote-Davis and Michele Aikens explore the themes of creativity, and the power of words. They discuss how societal expectations can limit our potential and the importance of embracing our inner compass. The conversation emphasizes that it's never too late topursue dreams, the significance of slowing down for self-reflection, and the need to challenge the 'at least' mentality. They also highlight the wisdom that comes with aging and the potential for new beginnings. Ultimately, the discussion encourages listeners to reclaim joy and freedom at any age and to create a legacy of possibilities.

Chapters

00:00 Creativity Ignited

04:14 Words as Creative Tools

06:33 Align Actions to Your Vision

07:24 From Limitations to Possibilities

10:18 Navigating the Inner Compass

13:16 The Weight of Irrelevance

16:10 Disrupting Complacency

19:11 The Power of At Least

23:16 Connecting to Purpose

26:10 Rediscovering Creativity

28:39 When Your Dreams Keep Calling

29:16 The Importance of Reflection

31:10 Your Inner Compass is Guiding Your Path

33:58 When We Risk Losing Connection

35:31 Stillness Offers Access to Your Leader Within

40:17 Trust the Beauty and Power of Rest

43:10 It's Never Too Late: Embracing Age and Possibility

51:00 Contributions to the World: Beyond Material Success

54:17 Healing Through Possibilities

58:10 Reclaiming Joy and Freedom

More about Michele Aikens

Michele Aikens, MA, ACC is the CEO & Lead Coach of Clear Sight Coaching & Consulting, Inc., a certified professional coach, and a credentialed member of the International Coaching Federation (ICF). With a background in leadership,executive women’s coaching, team development, and transition coaching, Michele helps individuals and organizations navigate challenges with insight, empathy,and humor. She has worked with leaders from organizations including Chief, McDonald’s, The Obama Foundation, ThredUp, and U.S. Cellular.

Beyond her coaching expertise, Michele is a transformational speaker and facilitator, helping individuals gain clarity, unlock their potential, and move toward their purpose. As an author of five books and three dramatic plays, she uses storytelling to inspire growth and change. Her life mission is to “turn onlights for people so they can see that what is in them is greater than what is around them.”

Michele holds a bachelor’s degree in religious studies and a master’s degree in Organizational Leadership. She is certified by the World Business Executive Coaches (WBECs) and the Global Team Coaching Institute (GTCI) as a team coaching practitioner.

She is married to Nate Aikens, and they are the proud parents of two adult children.

Connect with Michele

MicheleAikens.com

connect@micheleaikens.com

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This is a heartfelt invitation to explore the profound impact of slowing down and becoming present. Melanie and Jae Gibbs delve into the healing power of mindfulness and the wisdom found in stillness. Discover how embracing the present moment can lead to deeper connections with ourselvesand others. Learn practical ways to integrate this practice into your daily practice. Tune in for an enriching conversation that encourages you to find the medicine in slowness. Embrace the joy of being truly present.

Chapters

00:00 Connection Through Somatic Training

02:49 The Power of Space Holding

05:48 Exploring the Depth of Somatic Work

08:23 The Importance of Slowing Down

11:17 The Medicine in Slowness

14:41 Honoring Ancestral Connections

35:22 Understanding Trauma and Family Dynamics

37:48 The Role of Community in Healing

41:244 Connecting with Ancestry and Heritage

43:52 The Power of Movement and Expression

46:48 Gratitude and Connection

49:35 Choosing Joy Amidst Life's Challenges

53:14 Grief as a Portal to Joy

56:36 The Gift of Connection and Community

More about Jae Gibbs

Jae is a Space Holder and Somatic Companion, deeply devoted to our individual and collective freedom, through re:membering the healing and empowering embOdiment lineAges alive within us. Jae’s approach is person-centred, trauma-sensitive, ancestrally-anchored and shaped through a decolonising lens. Her practice honours each person asresourceful, creative and whole, beyond what can be seen with our eyes or spoken with our mouths. Jae offers one toone body-oriented coaching and group explorations cultivating rituals of rest, rites of being and paths of play. She supports wisdom seekers and cycle changers to re:member your truest essence and explore ways to become grounded in the guidance of your whole being.

Connect with Jae

OurLivingTree.co.uk

Instagram: @our_living_tree

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LeeAnn shares the importance of finding joy in simple things, the healing power of storytelling, and how embracing emotions can lead to a more fulfilling life. LeeAnn sharesher journey of creating a one-woman show, the birth of her 'Adventure Girl' persona, and the significance of taking risks.

They also delve into the concept of collecting regrets as a means to fuel future growth and the practice of gratitude and presence in everyday life.

More about LeeAnn Marie Webster

LeeAnn Marie Webster is the creator of No Regrets Formula™and host of the Full Self Expression Forum. She is an attorney turned international Keynote speaker, Moth Story Slam winner, and entrepreneur with 20 years’ experience in marketing and business development in a range of industries.

LeeAnn has a substantial event background, having successfully produced 130+ virtual summits and founding the largest speed dating company in Southern California. Her entrepreneurial journey started when she became the first person to host a speed dating event outside of the Jewish community, ultimately creating the largest speed dating company in Southern California (“Rapid Dating”).

Her first national TV appearance was as a contestant on MTV’s Remote Control. Since then, her entrepreneurial insights have been featured in NBC, The Huffington Post, The Los Angeles Times, and dozens more.

Through her No Regrets Formula, she helps women leaders find a deeper sense of connection to themselves in order to feel more engaged, increase confidence, and live a more joyful life. She is also the creator of Fancy Meeting Me Here, her inspirational one woman show.

Connect with LeeAnn

https://RegretReleaseMethod.com

Linkedin.com/in/leeannmariewebster

Instagram: @leeannmwebster

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Elena shares her transformative journey of self-discovery, exploring the themes of personal growth, the significance of the seven-year cycle, and the importance of listening to one'sinner voice. She reflects on her experiences of deconstructing her life, the pain of letting go, and the joy of rebuilding her identity through love and acceptance.

The discussion emphasizes the need for trust in oneself and thepower of relationships, both with others and with oneself, as essential components of a fulfilling life.

Whos’ Elena Orth

Elena is a life enthusiast who has a way of changing perspectives. Her inherent curiosity has led her to become an architect, a Somatic Coach, a Yoga teacher, a Reiki practitioner, a Shiatsu bodyworker, a writer. She is amazed by the kaleidoscope of identities one person can take on and is endlessly compassionate about the depth of human emotion.

In her personal life experiment she chose to deconstruct all the pillars of her identity structure in one big stroke of radical renewal: she quit her safe job, left a long-term relationship, and moved from her city to a tropical island - forced by the growing pain of anxiety attacks and nearing burnout, and fueledby the deep hope that despite the darkness in a life that didn’t feel like her own, there is a light much brighter and warmer than she could even imagine.

Today she is here to hold a loving space for anyone ready to meet themselves and to navigate darkness with an open heart. In her Somatic Coaching programs she guides womento grow their capacity to be with their emotions, and catalyze pain and misalignment into pathways to real, authentic growth.

Connect with Elena

https://www.bendyminds.com/

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In this episode, Melanie celebrates the National Day of Joy and emphasizes that joy can be accessed in the present moment without needing extra resources. She shares simple practices to experience joy, such as savoring food, self-hugging, and connecting with nature. The conversation encourages listeners to choose joy daily and recognize their worth.

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In this conversation, Melanie Foote-Davis and Tesha McCord Poe explore the themes of grief, joy, and resilience. Tesha shares her personal journey of loss, including the deaths of her husband and father, and how she found ways to process her grief through writing and humor. They discuss the importance of community, the lasting impact of love, and the mission behind Tesha's company, Joy-Raising, which aims to empower organizations to raise funds with joy. The conversation emphasizes that grief is a personal journey without a timeline, and that finding joy amidst sorrow is a choice we can make. They explore the multifaceted nature of leadership within philanthropy, emphasizing the importance of personal connections and the dignity of both giving and receiving. They discuss the challenges of fundraising, the emotional complexities surrounding money, and the necessity of fostering a supportive community. The dialogue alsotouches on personal growth, the healing power of joy, and the significance of choosing how to engage with life and others.

More about Tesha

Tesha McCord Poe, J.D./M.B.A., is the CEO and Founder of Joy-Raising, LLC, a consultancy dedicated to diversifying philanthropy by engaging people of color as donors and professionals, and supporting nonprofits through inclusive advancement strategies. With over a decade of senior administrative experience and a career total of over $100million raised—including multiple six- and seven-figure gifts—Tesha brings unmatched insight to fundraising, executive leadership, and organizational change.

Her experience spans roles as Interim Head at The Girls’ Middle School, Chief Advancement Officer at Castilleja School, and Chief Development Officer at Boys and Girls Clubs of the Peninsula and Associate Head of School at Hillbrook School. Tesha’s personal journey as a faculty child, student, parent, administrator, and trustee in independent schools shapes her bold, values-driven leadership style.

Joy-Raising’s flagship event, The Summit, convenes professionals of color in philanthropy for inspiration and connection. A sought-after speaker and TEDx presenter, Tesha co-authored Beyond Widow and serves on multiple nonprofit boards. She holds degrees from Barnard College, Columbia University, and Northwestern University, and lives in California but is known to find herself traveling and working in beautiful places in the U.S. and beyond

Connect with Tesha

Joy-Raising

The Summit: A Joy-RaisingExperience

LinkedIn

Book: Beyond Widow by Patty McGuigan and Tesha McCord Poe

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I believe that we’re surrounded my messages. Life speaks to us through various mediums. In this episode life spoke to me through my persistent chin hairs. LOL! Go to http://bit.ly/ccjoy to Download your FREE copy of How to Consciously Create a Life of Joy Journal

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In this episode I invite you to play with joy. I share a beautiful quote by Kaylyn Johnson of Effie's Paper, reminding us that "joy is not cancelled. "

I encourage viewers to go on a treasure hunt for joy, to find simple moments that bring them happiness. I invite everyone to take five minutes each day to do something that contributes to their joy. Join me in exploring different ways to experience joy and savoring the delicious moments that life offers.

Schedule a FREE inHER Joy Discovery call here

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So many of us are seeking work-life balance. It’s aspirational yet can feel so far away from your current reality.

What if there was another way to approach this idea of balance?

Have you ever considered what life could feel like if you softened your approach to leadership, team and life of well-being?

In this episode Emmy and I explore various possibilities available to us even in workplace settings. We also discuss: ·     How to find space to breathe as leaders ·     How to remain true to your values in professional settings ·     How to be more curious about a holistic approach to leadership ·     How to return home from work feeling nourished ·     How to move out of regulation and into relationships ·     How to use the element of play as research and data collection   Connect with Melanie ⁠Click here to learn more about how Melanie may support you or your organization⁠

Learn more about Emmy Beeson My heart for leading executives through times of change stems from over 20 years of educational experience, including more than a decade as the CEO/Superintendent of two school districts, K-12 and a Career Technical Planning District. 

As I began to understand my own stressors around trying to lead authentically in a sometimes not-very-authentic world, I came to more fully understand organizational change management, transformational leadership, and the necessity to not go it alone.

These experiences mean I understand the significant pressures of running a multimillion-dollar business and balancing the needs of employees, customers and the community all while trying to not only remain true to your core values but also to live them out loud on a daily basis. With this clarity and passion for helping others, I left my secure leadership position at the top of my field with a new mission to share the lessons learned with those around me.

Today, I work to bring authentic learning and leadership experiences across the country and to bring years of executive leadership perspective in support of your journey.  That’s right, “your journey!”

Who you are and what you want to accomplish in the world is important to me. 

From navigating the challenges of passing tax campaigns, connecting to business and industry for workforce development, along with building effective union and board relationships - my expertise lies in strategically navigating change, enabling buy-in and empowerment, and ensuring personal growth and focus at the same time.  My experiences in career-technical settings bring a unique perspective for a lifelong educator who also “gets the real-world” with ties to STEM industries and beyond.

Understanding how to uncover a shared vision, build capacity for change, implement strategies while increasing the likelihood they will be embraced, and institute positive outcomes that can be sustained over time is a special skill set required of the most adept leaders. 

Let’s start this journey together.  Whether you are looking for change in your team or in yourself, know that I am here for you and am ready to supportbyour journey! 

Connect with Emmy For leadership and organizational change coaching at emmy@weinspirewe.com 

For leadership and organizational change efforts specifically designed for the educational setting emmy@partnershipsforall.com

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Do you remember a time when you felt emotional but didn’t know how to express what you were experiencing?

Well you’re not alone. Jazmin Ocampo recognized that repressing her feelings and moving like a high-functioning machine was not the way she wanted to live.

She gave herself permission to feel. She now knows how to operate from an overflowing cup, vibrate higher with an expanded capacity to listen and connect more deeply.

In this episode Jaz shares her journey to:

  • Creating a path to break out of her shell
  • Restoring a disconnected relationship
  • Learning to become compassionate with her anxiety
  • Discovering unhealed wounds stored in her bodies
  • Identify exploration

Who Is Jazmin Ocampo?

Jazmin Ocampo’s name is pronounced in Spanish (yah-zh-meen oh-kham-poh). She is happy with "Jaz" or "Yaz." As a student of self-love, and as an empathy-driven leader, Jaz mobilizes others to embrace their holistic selves, be inspired by the resiliency of their ancestors, express themselves, and become more intentional in how they show up for themselves and others.

She believes that authentic and reciprocal relationships surface our power within, so she enthusiastically curates spaces for people to connect, explore ideas, & take concrete steps towards what they envision for themselves & their communities.

Born and raised in Chicago to Mexican immigrant parents, Jaz is deeply committed to social, economic, & racial justice for BIPOC communities. She’s driven to influence how structural and systemic decisions impact people on an individual, local, and global level. She currently supports AMPT: Advancing Nonprofits in developing programming that centers Black and Latine nonprofit leaders and organizations, and in transforming philanthropy by addressing systemic racial inequities and serving as a model for anti-racist systems and processes. As a health and wellness enthusiast, Jaz loves to move her body and try new meal recipes! She lives with a growing number of houseplants because she’s obsessed with propagation.

Connect with Jaz LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jazmin-ocampo

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We’ve all experienced regrets on some level on our quest to achieve our goals and aspirations. My guest LeeAnn Webster is no stranger to regrets. She doesn’t see it as bad. Instead, she learned to use regrets as her navigation system. It guided her path to a life of joy, adventure and fulfillment.

In this episode LeeAnn shares:

  • How to use an energetic container to support your well being
  • The value in pausing to relish in your accomplishments
  • How commitment, alignment and detachment play well together
  • Why she commits to herself over anything else
  • How to use regrets as a navigation tool

Who is LeeAnn Marie Webster?

LeeAnn Marie Webster is the creator of No Regrets FormulaTM and host of the Full Self Expression Forum. She is an attorney turned international Keynote speaker, Moth Story Slam winner, and entrepreneur with 20 years’ experience in marketing and business development in a range of industries.

LeeAnn has a substantial event background, having successfully produced 130+ virtual summits and founding the largest speed dating company in Southern California. Her entrepreneurial journey started when she became the first person to host a speed dating event outside of the Jewish community, ultimately creating the largest speed dating company in Southern California (“Rapid Dating”).

Her first national TV appearance was as a contestant on MTV’s Remote Control. Since then, her entrepreneurial insights have been featured in NBC, The Huffington Post, The Los Angeles Times, and dozens more. Through her No Regrets Formula, she helps women leaders find a deeper sense of connection to themselves in order to feel more engaged, increase confidence, and live a more joyful life. She is also the creator of Fancy Meeting Me Here, her inspirational one woman show.

Connect with LeeAnn

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/leeannmariewebster/

Instagram:@leeannmwebster

YouTube: LeeAnnMarieWebster

Website:

www.LeeAnnMarieWebster.com

www.LeeAnnSpeaks.com

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Have you ever questioned what it would be like to disrupt your routine to connect with the next version of you? Then you’re gonna really appreciate this episode.   My friend, Tami Chapek tossed her well-orchestrated plan to the side. And she and her dog Lula, packed their lives in a storage unit and ventured off to a road trip of discovery. Yummy right? In this episode Tami shares the value in:

Leaning into an opportunity for a fresh start Walking through big open doors Connecting to the community within you Having flexibility with your me-time Being in tune with your gifts and make the world better

Who is Tami Chapek? Tami Chapek, a seasoned Executive Leadership and Career Coach supports women and underrepresented groups to become leaders, regardless of title or tenure, to stretch beyond their current level and amplify their influence and impact. Tami empowers individuals to identify and reach professional and leadership goals, overcome barriers to success, and own their leadership development and career advancement.   Connect with Tami Chapek website: WeInspireWe.com LinkedIn: TamiChapek IG @weinspirewe

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Have you ever stopped to consider what healing means for you?Well, I have. I’m still sorting through it. I find myself defining and redefining as I continue to evolve.One of the things that gets under my skin is seeing how women’s health is consistently undervalued. In this episode, Nadine Hottat, enlightens us with a broader perspective on healing. We pause to reflect on· The art and science of medicine· The importance of identifying what healing means for you· How to nourish the soil of your healing garden· Inclusion of resources beyond conventional medicine· Passive and active facilitation of your own health· How to rally your own healing energies· Her reverence for the depth of the well that women draw from spiritually, emotionally and physicallyWho is Nadine HottattNadine Hottat is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse and Certified Nurse Midwife. She has advanced professional training in Integrative and Functional Medicine for Women, She is the owner of Enlighten Health Care, focusing on personalized Integrative Medicine and Coaching. She weaves principles and practices of natural, nutritional, botanical, and mind/body medicine into a Feminine Medicine approach, honoring the unique and essential dynamics of feminine energy as a rich resource for healing and well-being.Connect with Nadinehttps://nadinehottat.com/--- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

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Do you remember when you loved your role so much that it became a part of your identity?

Some may know you as Mother, Doctor, CFO, First Lady, Vice President, Principal, Professor, wife or something else.

Then one day you realize that something is off. The thrill and your motivation to continue is this way is going, going . . .gone.

Then it occurs to you that you’ve lost touch with who you are beyond your role, title or social status.

Here’s the thing. The fulfillment is no longer present because your connection to this role is no longer aligned.

That role was simply a stop along the way to prepare you for something greater.

Your evolution is happening. And it’s calling for you to pause, reflect and purposefully realign.

Tune into to the latest episode of She Chose Joy w/Melanie Podcast.

Paula Frank shares her journey from a corporate executive and strategic visionary to Fortune 500 brands to delivering joy through gift-giving daily as Owner of Luxe and You Gifts & Floral Designs

In this episode, Paula shares:

· The gift and power of volunteerism

· How your journey influences where you’re going

· How to discover who you are beyond your corporate identity

· The necessity of moving through the painful messy middle to discover who she’s meant to be

Who is Paula Frank

Former corporate executive turned entrepreneur, Paula Frank, turned her twenty-year, part-time floral design and gift box passion for friends and family into a full-time labor-of-love as founder and lead designer of Luxe & You Gifts and Floral Design.

Paula has extensive expertise and a proven track record for providing strategic vision and operational experience to Fortune 500 brands. She consistently delivered proactive and pioneering approaches for a modern workforce and became known for several first-time transformation achievements.

Marrying her business expertise and natural creativity, Paula launched Luxe & You Gifts and Floral Design in October 2022, with a mission to deliver joy through gift-giving daily.

Connect with Paula on IG @lux_n_you

Luxe & You Gifts and Floral Designs


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Whenever you enter a room you’re communicating, even without saying a word. Here’s my question. Does the message you’re conveying align with the truth of who you are?

Well, Toy Monique knows a thing or two about the power of your presence and it’s impact on your relationships. In this episode she shares

  • How to gain confidence and clarity
  • How to increase the benefits within your relationships
  • How to create opportunities to become a powerful leader
  • How to become the happiest version of you
  • Steps to purposefully reshape the narrative about who you are

Who is Toy Monique Hawkins

a television executive and producer, currently develops scripted content for BET Networks and the newly derived BET Studios as Vice President. While both brands are WHERE BLACK CULTURE LIVES, they differ in that BET Networks promotes black culture content, while BET Studios promotes black content creators.

Prior to BETN/S, Toy Monique developed, sold and produced projects at Will Packer Productions - a television and feature film production company known for its box office successes: GIRLS TRIP, NIGHT SCHOOL & THINK LIKE A MAN.

Some of the projects under Toy Monique’s purview include THAT GIRL LAY LAY, BIGGER, KINGDOM BUSINESS, and THE MS. PAT SHOW.

Toy Monique, a Chicago native, made the move to Hollywood after twelve years in business & technology – leaving Willis Towers Watson, a leader in outsourcing and technology solutions, after two years of overlap in both careers. The transition was seamless, thanks to remote work opportunities (pre-pandemic) and the Semester in LA program at Columbia College Chicago where Toy Monique sought her Masters in Creative Producing.

Toy Monique, is currently dedicated to her work in development, and looks to make great strides in the entertainment industry for people of color - producing stories across all genres, settings, and periods of time. As a strong believer in lifting while climbing, Toy Monique mentors industry professionals, speaks and attends panels, hosts empowerment gatherings and supports independent filmmaking.

Connect with Toy Monique

IG: @toymoniquehawkins


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Puberty comes with its own set of challenges. Being born female adds another layer because we also have period stories that are not always easy to talk about. Some are embarrassing and others are quite special. Do you remember when you got your first menstrual cycle? Do you remember how you felt? Were you afraid, confused, embarrassed, empowered or something else? Dr. Carmen offers insight and other perspective to shift the narrative about our experiences. Tune in as we discuss:

· Owning your period story

· Dismantling the miseducation of our menstruation

· Period Shaming

· Creating positive experiences around periods

· How to celebrate your cycle

· Educating boys and men on how to be more supportive

· Element of secrecy or wanting to get rid of all the evidence

· With secrecy comes anxiety

Click here to get 5 Tips for Positively Powerful Periods

Who is Dr. Carmen McNeil?

As a Facilitator, Educator, and Period of Empowerment™ Guide, Dr. Carmen McNeil is committed to helping girls and women understand how impressive they really are. Affectionately known as Dr. Carmen, she holds a Ph.D. in Psychology, is a tenured professor, as well as a graduate of the California Black Women’s Health Project Advocacy Training Program. Dr. Carmen has been a featured speaker for conferences, women’s organizations, and educational institutions. She pours her 25+ years of teaching, counseling, and training into supporting Power Parents and Community Influencers raising black girls; facilitating empowerment camps and workshops; and helping to lead the culture-shift around menstruation via her Power to the Period™ and Daring Daddies of Daughters™ workshops.

Podcast Notes


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Life is full of to do list. But what about your “to be list”? Some days the best thing you can do for you is to let yourself off the hook and chill.

Who is Nicole Roberson King

Nicole Roberson-King is an Occupational Therapist with over 14 years of experience. She specializes in pediatrics working with children who have a variety of diagnosis including but not limited to Autism, Cerebral Palsy and developmental delays.

Nicole is a proud mother of two beautiful kiddos Camren and Cassidy.

She enjoys home design, meditative walks, spiritual podcasts, reading, journaling, and has a connection with boxing.


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There are many perspectives on abundance, what it means and how it shows up. In this episode She helps you to recognize when you’ve operating in a mindset of scarcity not abundance.Sherry lends another way to access your abundance. She shares a game to play with abundance for 7 days.

Who is Sherry Frey:

Sherry is an entrepreneur, financial mentor and speaker. She passionately believes our relationship with money mirrors our relationship with ourselves - our financial wellness and emotional wellness are tied together. To her, money work is spiritual work. Sherry empowers successful women to get their financial life in order, helping them to confidently manage, grow and share their prosperity. Through her businesses, coaching and speaking, Sherry’s mission is to inspire everyone to lylole (pronounced ly-lo-lay): love yourself, love others and love the earth.

Sherry loves to travel, hike and bake. She loves to show her love through baked goods and recently hiked her first 14,000 foot mountain.

Instagram:@lylolelove

Website: lylole Prosperity


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Life is one incredible journey of ebbs and flow. Sometimes those ebbs can lead you to a place where your physical, spiritual and emotional health is compromised in a way that calls for a hard reset.

Ty Miller knows a thing or two about taking that time to pause, reflect and recalibrate. She understands taking a stand for your family starts with standing for you first.

Lean in to hear how Ty made a series of courageous decisions to own her power and reclaim her freedom.

Who is Ty Miller

Ty Miller is an empathy-driven leader with over 20 years of experience in the technology, real estate, and healthcare industries.

She is the self-proclaimed "relationship whisperer" bringing people and ideas together to move the world forward.

What she’s most excited about is loving and nurturing her three incredible children.

Additional Notes

You hear us mention Cheryle Jackson, Founder of Grit + Grace. Click to learn more here. 

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Growth is a personal journey. We’re all here having our own unique experience. Some of us change while others transform. But wait…aren’t they the same? Let’s find out. Tune in as Esther Bailey-Bass shares the distinction between them.

You’re about to be EBBedÔ#enJOY

Who is Esther Bailey-Bass

Esther Bailey-Bass supports women in the process of uncovering the mysteries of themselves. She helps them shift from a passive mindset to one of leader. The world needs women to have the audacity to be self-governed and to be the authority over our own lives. We’ve coddled each other and given excuses for why we “cannot.” We’ve always had permission to dream big. It’s the stuff movies are made of, and yet we want someone else to create our lives for us. Women—as leaders in life, work, and business, it’s time to move beyond good intentions and take action.

As a Co-Active® coach, transformational change is the goal while creating a space that fosters real connection and intimacy for truth-telling. When you show up with a “desire” to be coached, it is essential to bring curiosity and adventure into the conversation. I will engage you through intuition, curiosity, and deep listening to foster open, candid conversations, deep learning, and forward action.

Esther wants to seek out the “truth” that is you, and tell you the truth, in order to draw out your big-picture dreams through hard, focused, and purposeful conversation and accountability. She’ll focus on the whole person—mind, body, heart, and spirit—while acting as a mirror that allows you to see yourself more clearly, elevate your confidence, and connect with your inner authority. Our work together will result in action, lasting change, and greater personal fulfillment.

With a Bachelor of Science in Business Organization Communications, a Certified Professional Co-Active Coach with the Coaches Training Institute, and membership in ICF (International Coach Federation), her objective is your transformational change upholding high professional and ethical standards.

http://www.estherbaileybass.com/


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Have you noticed that you walk a little differently when your money is right? It’s Going to Rain. Sometimes it’s a tsunami. Tune in as Tiffany Allen shares how to walk with confidence even when it rains.

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Who's Tiffany Allen

BUSINESS PHILOSOPHY

No matter what stage of life you find yourself in, as a Financial Professional working with individuals and businesses, I can help find solutions to your financial challenges. So, whether you’re “just starting out,” settling into retirement” or somewhere in between, let’s discuss your current financial situation, goals and challenges. Together we’ll review your insurance needs and goals, adjust strategies as needed, and I will provide you with various options to make sure that we are providing the right solutions to your financial challenges. The foundation of my philosophy is based upon helping you realize your financial goals and helping you protect those who depend on you. I’ll strive to maintain a strong relationship with your through every life stage.

QUALIFICATIONS

· Over 25 Years in the Financial Services industry

· Licensed to sell Life & Health Insurance in IL, IN & TX

· Registered to offer Securities Products in IL, IN & TX

Contact: 312-622-5183


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Tiffany Allen used to believe that she needed more time. She discovered that what she really wanted was energy. Tune in to learn how Tiffany created gained access to more time by finding ways to preserve and generate her energy. enJOY💛✨

Who's Tiffany Allen No matter what stage of life you find yourself in, as a Financial Professional working with individuals and businesses, I can help find solutions to your financial challenges. So, whether you’re “just starting out,” settling into retirement” or somewhere in between, let’s discuss your current financial situation, goals and challenges. Together we’ll review your insurance needs and goals, adjust strategies as needed, and I will provide you with various options to make sure that we are providing the right solutions to your financial challenges. The foundation of my philosophy is based upon helping you realize your financial goals and helping you protect those who depend on you. I’ll strive to maintain a strong relationship with your through every life stage. Contact: 312-622-5183


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The Happiest Angry Person You've Ever Met w/Siobhan Davenport

“Forgiveness isn’t approving of what happened. It’s choosing to rise above it.” ~Robin Sharma

How do you reconcile your public persona with your private thoughts and feelings when you been angry with someone you love for so long?

Tune in to learn how Siobhan Davenport activated joy through her transformative journey of forgiveness.

enJOY💛✨

Who's Siobhan?

As the Executive Director of a foundation (2002-2018), Ms. Davenport oversaw the foundation’s impact investing around economic and educational opportunities to low-income families and youth. Prior to that, Ms. Davenport served as Senior Producer and Host for On the Potomac Productions including the acclaimed series “The New Washington.”

She serves as a commissioner for the Maryland Governor’s Commission on Service and Volunteerism and sits on the leadership committee of the National Council of Negro Woman - PVS. Ms. Davenport holds a BS in Business Administration from Boston University and a Master’s degree in Journalism from American University.

She is an award-winning author, writing about her forgiveness journey that led to her personal freedom.

LinkedIn

Twitter @siobhandauthor


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The Joy of Friendship

“True friendship comes when the silence between two people is comfortable.”

– David Tyson

Miki and I are both talkers so silent moments rarely happens when we’re together. However, when it does we are right there to comfort and support each other in our own special way.

Tune in as we chat it up about various shared experiences between us.

enJOY💛✨

Who's Miki Wright?

Miki Wright went from struggling Stylist to booked solid in months, not years. She then went on to own a salon where she trained her Stylists how to duplicate her success. Fabulous Finishes, her former Salon and Spa, was named one of the “200 Fastest Growing Salons in the Country” by Salon Today Magazine – for three consecutive years!!! Why not learn what it really takes to grow your Salon business from someone who’s been in your shoes?

Miki loves helping Hairstylists increase their income and boost their salon profits. She is a Salon Business Coach and founder of www.BeautySuperStars.com and continues to share her knowledge to help Beauty Pros create the clientele, income and lifestyle they desire with the Beauty SuperStars Online Academy.

Miki recently created Beauty SuperStars Talk, where she offers weekly interviews with Top Black Beauty Pros that give beauty enthusiasts a backstage pass to Experts in Beauty.


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Choose to Be the Light

Philanthropist, Julie Hightower shares:

· How she chooses to be the light

· How to be cognizant of you handle people and it’s impact

· The impact of your yes

· The importance of having the right people in your tribe

· The value in “Cave Time”

· What to do in your stretch moments

· And so much more

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Who's Julie Hightower?

Julie Hightower is a catalyst for change.

For the women who lust after the $4,000 designer dresses in magazines, but have to buy the $100 version; for those who yearn to feel beautiful and powerful, but must often find that power within themselves; and for those who feel trapped as vulnerable members of our society, and just need a helping hand to lift them up.

Through her web-series, upcoming new television show A Better Day with Julie and philanthropic efforts throughout her community, Julie is that helping hand, offering fashion and beauty tips for the everyday woman, empowering them to appreciate themselves and to embrace the confidence that comes when one’s outer beauty matches the goodness inside.

Julie proudly serves on the Executive Board of the Daisie Foundation Board, Dress for Success Chicago Advisory Board, and Chicago Woman Magazine Ambassador Board.

http://abetterdaywithjulie.com/

https://daisiefoundation.org/about/

IG: @ABetterDayWithJulie


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Your Gifts Are Often Disguised

Do you realize that you’re surrounded by Blessings?

You don’t want to miss this episode of She Chose Joy Podcast. Grab your hydration, pen and paper.

Attorney and Business Strategist, @Monique Manigault drops so many jewels. You don’t want to any of them.

Here’s a snapshot of what she shares.

· How blessings can show up in unlikely ways

· How death can be a great initiator

· The power of owning your mornings

· What’s possible when you respond to what your soul already knows

#enJOY💛✨

Who’s Monique Manigault?

Monique Manigault is a life and business strategist, author, powerful speaker and an unrelenting teacher. With nearly 20 years of experience as a New York attorney, Monique has advised, educated and assisted her clients in building businesses at all levels – from startups to multimillion dollar companies.

Bred from an entrepreneurial family, the serial entrepreneur has honed into the key strategies that move businesses forward and propels exponential growth. In addition to leading workshops, retreats and speaking internationally, Monique maintains a private coaching practice working one-on-one with her business and life clients coaching them on everything from leveraging current relationships to overcoming challenges that are blocking their growth.

Monique is a compelling speaker with an extraordinary story of defying the odds. She has a unique ability to touch people and using her own life story she shows others what is possible to achieve in their own lives. Using all that she has learned along the way, she taps into people’s passions and desires to support them in reaching their ultimate goals – both in business and in life.

Monique has a nationally syndicated television show “Women on the Move.”


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Tamaya Walker McClendon, CEO of Sisters and Suitcases, shares how she unveiled layers of fear, married herself, connected with her purpose and found her freedom through travel.

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Tamaya Walker-McClendon is the Founder, CEO and mastermind behind Sisters and Suitcases, an international social travel network for women of color that creates travel experiences globally. Tamaya has mastered the art of curating responsible travel experiences by collaborating and working with local creatives and entrepreneurs to curate highly immersive experiences that travelers cannot get anywhere else. She has also worked to ensure that the dollars spent go directly to locals. Tamaya believes in local first. She believes that by being local first there is a huge opportunity to create economic opportunity and income for communities that really need it, while at the same time respecting and promoting the local culture and creating a once and a life-time experience for a Sisters and Suitcases travelers. Tamaya believes you can make the world a better place through responsible travel.

At a very young age Tamaya had a love for travel and a desired to explore the world. It was in 2012 that she had, what she calls her “Hero Journey.” After have traveled too many US states and the Caribbean Islands she desired to see more of the world and was tired of waiting on family and friends. She took her first solo trip to Italy and set out for the unknown. It was during that experience that her quest for adventure brought a greater return than she had ever imagined, provoked her inner desires and shifted her perspective as a result of travel and led to the creation of Sisters and Suitcases.

Having traveled to fifteen countries and 29 US States, Tamaya has used her communication, networking, and strategic planning skills to cultivate relationships, create worldwide brand visibility, forge partnerships and provide unique travel experiences for her clients. Prior to starting Sisters and Suitcases, Tamaya worked as a professional educator, trainer and program manager for sixteen years in various areas of education, ranging from Early Childhood Education to Higher Education. She worked as a regional coordinator for Arkansas State University where she played an integral role in the state ranking #2 in the nation for Early Care and Education . Tamaya has been recognized as an innovator and community change-agent.

Tamaya believes travel is vital to women. When you’re able to travel and explore intentionally, your mind is given the space to shift. Exposure to new cultures and people helps to create a healthier perspective on how you view the world around you. Today, as the Founder of Sisters and Suitcases, she is privileged to combine all of her life’s passions by offering a space where women can fully experience the joy of being the best of themselves—strong, sensual, smart, silly and full of life! Her goal and cherished purpose is to help you unravel the gift of travel one experience at a time.


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Michelle Hernon, creator of Soul Nest, shares her journey of adapting to new spaces, cultures and environments. Instagram: @TheMichelleHerndon


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There are many ways to tap into that joyful place. Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Tiffany M. Stevens offers insight on how to access your joy and manifest your heart’s desires.

IG: @itstiffmarie


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A simple hello from my heart to yours.


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