Breaking Joy

In today's episode, I'm having a heart-to-heart with Illiah, a creative director and brand strategist who helps women step fully into their brilliance with confidence and impact. But today, we're going deeper than branding—we're talking about the raw, unfiltered reality of balancing business, motherhood, and advocacy for a neurodivergent child. Illiah shares the weight of carrying it all, the grief of a late diagnosis, and the relief of finally finding real support.  If you've ever felt like the world expects you to hold everything together while silently falling apart—this one's for you. Here's a glance at this episode… [2:07] Meet Illiah [5:11] Balancing Motherhood & Business [7:40] Advocating for a Neurodivergent Child [10:53] The Myth of "Fixing" Neurodivergent Kids [14:48] Early Signs & Late Diagnosis [19:05] The Grief of Missed Years [23:46] Finding Support & Community [29:05] The Weight on Siblings [32:15] How This Changed Illiah's Business [37:20] You're Not Failing, You're Evolving Connect with me on Instagram Connect with today's guest: Connect with Illiah on Instagram Learn more about her design services for more resources, click here!

Today, I'm sharing a bit of my journey as a photographer and storyteller. Over the last 16 years, shooting boudoir sessions has been a way to create a safe space for women to be themselves and start a journey of self-love......   Buttttt!   I'm no longer offering traditional boudoir sessions! Listen to find out why! Here's a glance at this episode… [03:45] The Real Meaning of Boudoir [07:30] A Special Story [11:15] The Heart of the Experience [15:20] Why I'm Saying Goodbye to Traditional Boudoir [20:00] What's Next: Beauty and Women's Portraiture Connect with me on Instagram

In this episode I had an incredibly heartfelt conversation with the amazing Dr. Courtney, a compassionate divorce and co-parenting coach. With over two decades of experience in healthcare, Courtney brings a deep understanding of human behavior, mental health, and the importance of self-care during challenging life transitions to her coaching practice.   We had a deep discussion about the power of forgiveness and healing after experiencing difficult relationships, especially divorce. We also talked about the physical toll that stress and unresolved emotions can take on our bodies, emphasizing the importance of self-compassion and grace during challenging times. Courtney's message of hope and resilience, coupled with her expertise in healthcare and coaching, is truly inspiring, reminding us that it's okay to struggle but that we have the power to choose healing and growth. Connect with today's guest: Dr. Courtney Coaching Courtney's Instagram Here's a glance at this episode… [10:37] Discussing the power of forgiveness and healing after challenging relationships [19:55] Courtney shares her personal journey of forgiving herself and choosing peace [28:18] The physical toll of stress and unresolved emotions on our bodies [36:45] Courtney's inspiring message of hope and resilience.   Connect with me on Instagram

Today I'm having another heart to heart with Lindsay Pace, a licensed therapist specializing in anxiety and OCD. In this insightful episode, we chat about practical techniques for managing thoughts and emotions, emphasizing curiosity and acceptance over control. Lindsay also shares her expertise with warmth and humor, offering valuable insights into understanding and navigating the complexities of the human mind.   Connect with today's guest: Lindsey Pace's Instagram Evercare Counseling

Today's special guest, Keisha Pelton, is joining me on the podcast and we're chatting all about holistic health, conventional medicine, and patient advocacy. Keisha shares some practical tips like how to manage hypertension and even dives into the importance of advocating for proper medical care. Keisha is passionate about how individuals can take charge of their health while embracing both traditional and alternative approaches. Connect with Keisha:

In this episode I chat about finding (and cultivating) meaning and purpose in our daily lives. Join me, Sharon Elizabeth, as we unravel the intricacies of infusing purpose into the seemingly ordinary and dive into actionable steps to cultivate deeper fulfillment. From reflecting on core values to exploring passions and embracing growth, we explore how intentional choices can transform routine into purpose. Let's embark on this path together and witness the magic of bringing purpose into every facet of our lives.   Here's a glance at this episode… [00:24] Exploring the Desire for Meaning and Purpose [01:35] Reflecting on Core Values [02:57] Finding Direction in Everyday Tasks [11:01] Nurturing Meaningful Relationships [13:52] Exploring Passions and Interests [19:38] Embracing Growth and Adaptability

Join me as I share my unique approach to the new year, focusing not on resolutions but on self-commitments. I dive into five commitments I'm making to myself in 2024. From cutting out misaligned work to giving myself permission to dream, these commitments are rooted in aligning my life with my values and passions. Discover how setting boundaries in my photography business and prioritizing self-development play a crucial role. I also unveil my journey toward becoming a children's author and emphasize the importance of embracing every emotion, especially grief. Lastly, I discuss my ongoing commitment to physical and mental health, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own growth and challenge them to make meaningful commitments for the year ahead. Here's a glance at this episode…  [01:30] Cutting out misaligned work and aligning with values [03:01] Giving myself permission to fully lean into my passions [04:56] Allowing space for dreams and potential continued education [06:58] Taking action towards publishing my first book [08:33] Prioritizing grief and embracing every emotion [10:09] Continuing to prioritize physical and mental health

Unraveling six profound lessons that unfolded during the difficult year of 2023. This episode is a candid journey through the intricate layers of grief, where I share deeply personal excerpts from my journal, offering a glimpse into the profound pain, anger, and faith that accompanied the loss of my mother. From navigating the duality of emotions to embracing self-compassion and challenging societal expectations, 2023 became a year of transformation, learning, and rediscovery. Join me in this vulnerable conversation, where I lay bare the lessons that shaped my existence and invite you to find resonance in your own journey of growth and self-discovery.   Here's a glance at this episode… [01:28] The unique experience of loss and grief [02:01] Excerpts from my journal during this season of grief [03:26] Faith, anger, and facing the unthinkable [06:30] Losing oneself and the journey of rediscovery [07:17] Embracing the duality of life [08:35] Unlearning shame and embracing self-compassion [09:12] Connecting with a younger self through parenting [10:40] Redefining purpose beyond photography [12:15] Dreams don't have to be scary; finding peace [14:27] Heading into 2024 with shifts and embracing who I am [17:34] Closing thoughts on growth, transformation, and embracing life's challenges

In this episode, I dive into the importance of self-advocacy as it pertains to our health and well-being. I don't know about you, but have you ever felt dismissed by a doctor or totally overlooked by a healthcare provider?   I'm sharing personal stories and frustrations and highlighting the importance of advocating for yourself and your loved ones. From misdiagnoses to overlooked details, mistakes happen, but hopefully after this episode you'll have some practical tools to help you assert yourself confidently when it comes to your health. You'll learn valuable tips for effective communication, seeking second opinions, educating yourself, tracking symptoms, understanding healthcare coverage, and accessing community resources. Don't miss this empowering episode on taking control of your health journey.   Here's a glance at this episode…  [00:58] Doctor dismissals and self-advocacy [02:21] Importance of checking medical records [04:10] Advocating for an accurate diagnosis [07:16] Seeking second opinions [11:16] Advocacy despite dismissive medical experiences [12:43] Overlooked health issues and their consequences [14:15] Examples of dismissive ER experiences [16:11] Acknowledging mistakes in healthcare [19:31] Tips for effective communication [21:06] The role of self-education [22:36] Importance of documenting symptoms [24:09] Understanding healthcare coverage tips [25:07] Seeking community support options [27:00] Encouragement for health advocacy

Join me in this emotional episode as I reflect on the past year since saying goodbye to my sweet mumma. In the spirit of vulnerability, I share the heartfelt eulogy I wrote for her funeral—a tribute to her strength, laughter, and the lasting impact she had on our lives. Through tears and laughter, we navigate the journey of grief, growth, and cherishing memories. May this episode bring solace and connection to those experiencing their own losses. Here's a glance at this episode… [0:41] Reflecting on the past year [2:49] Recalling Mumma's laughter and the unfairness of loss [4:42] Memories, regrets, and Mumma's lasting wisdom [8:26] Gratitude, reflection, and the power of shared stories

Join me on the journey of unmasking from gratitude as we unpack the societal pressure of constant positivity and the struggles of wearing a 'gratitude mask' - we'll be discussing how it affects our 'wholeness' and I'll share tips on embracing authenticity, balancing gratitude with 'all' of our emotions, and how we can take steps towards genuine self-expression and personal growth.   Here's a glance at this episode… [01:28] - Societal Pressure on Positivity [03:04] - Impact of Constant Gratitude [06:06] - Struggle with Emotional Suppression [09:14] - Tips for Unmasking Authenticity [12:09] - Cultivating Supportive Relationships [14:57] - Embracing Vulnerability & Self-Expression [16:50] - Self-Acceptance and Growth [19:42] - Final Challenge: Lean into Authenticity

Join me in this raw and candid conversation with "Sally", as we explore the depths of healing after marital betrayal. We uncover the complexities of infidelity, the challenge of rebuilding trust, and the remarkable path to forgiveness. Sally's journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, offering powerful insights into dealing with grief, depression, and ultimately finding the courage to rebuild a fractured relationship.   This episode is a reminder that every individual's healing journey is unique. If you're on the road to healing your marriage after infidelity, you'll find inspiration and hope in Sally's incredible story.   Here's a glance at this episode… [03:35] The shattering discovery of the affair and the whirlwind of emotions. [07:49] The painful navigation of grief and confronting the unimaginable. [11:56] Creating a safe space for uncomfortable conversations. [14:09] Reclaiming self-worth and the journey of self-discovery. [16:34] Boundaries, privacy, and the significance of self-respect. [20:12] Medication's role in the healing process. [22:51] Viewing the affair as a plea for help and a wake-up call. [24:56] Embracing forgiveness as a vital step in healing. [25:30] Rebuilding trust in a relationship post-infidelity. [27:52] Navigating the fine balance between accountability and control. [29:27] The profound discovery of self-value and the essence of redefined love.

Today we're diving into a tender but important topic: how to be there for someone when they've experienced a profound loss. I open up about my personal journey of grief and offer some heartfelt advice. I talk about the power of just being there for someone, even if you feel a bit awkward or don't know what to say. I also touch on how to respect boundaries and give grieving loved ones their time and space, but don't hesitate to show your support with small gestures of kindness. And I share a crucial tip about connecting with grieving loved ones without piling on your own stories of loss and trauma too soon. Throughout, you'll feel like you're having a heart-to-heart chat with a friend who's been through it all and genuinely wants to help you navigate difficult seasons of loss. Here's a glance at this episode…  [3:00] The power of showing up for someone who's grieving [8:02] How to respect boundaries and give space [9:33] How to ask questions and connect [12:28] The importance of not rushing the grieving process

there's a balance between positive + negative thinking.. and i think it's often misunderstood.. so today i'm sharing some short thoughts about these mindsets.

this episode is short but powerful - i'm sharing an excerpt from the journal.. but it's not a pretty one. these are the moments the movies don't warn you about.. and the sounds you never forget... this is goodbye.

if you are in the photography industry this is one episode you don't want to miss!! i'm spilling the beans on 15 mistakes you may be making on the wedding day.. and a bonus mistake i know most of us have been guilty of... you will learn a few hills i'm willing to die on and i'd love to learn what your hills may be too!!   Here's a glance at this episode…  [0:50] one thing i teach my team  [5:30] one rule i always follow  [7:14] a hill i'm willing to die on  [9:19] something sometimes "controversial"  [12:20] into the unknown  [13:32] it's not all about you  [15:07] you may be missing out  [18:55] a bonus - hint: 99% of you do this

in this episode, i'm giving an inside peek into my health journey over the last handful of years!! chatting all about when things took a turn, the actions i took to advocate for myself along the way... and finally the answers i have been searching for.   Here's a glance at this episode… [2:50] my hope in sharing [4:25] a glimpse at life before [6:33] when things started to change [11:54] what it looked like at the worst [15:02] the first diagnosis possibilities [23:56] one of the hardest things about all of this

gavin wade of cloudspot is breaking down how his own experiences as a wedding photographer led him to see gaps in the industry that inspired him to create the company he leads today.. and be sure to tune in so you don't miss the exciting news about what is coming soon!!!! and if you're a photographer, you can head here to grab 20% off any monthly or annual plans... here's a glance at this episode…  [7:00] where most of your time is spent + business mistakes [12:30] how the entire company started [17:21] what creeps in no matter how big your business is [25:00] coming SOON to cloudspot [31:37] hustle culture + it's effects [37:05] how business boundaries protect relationships [43:51] rapid fire: how to connect with gavin + his most important business lesson

in this episode, i'm sharing all about common nightmares photographers have before events and the stories that go with them!!! i'm also giving away a special gift that can help you overcome ANY lighting struggles you may have — and save you some mooolaaa!! The J & M Lighting Course * use code SHARONSENTME for $300 off! Here's a glance at this episode…  [1:30] episode disclaimer [1:59] #1 when to arrive [4:45] #2 experiencing difficult lighting [6:42] a special gift for you [8:57] #3 battery life [9:55] #4 memory cards + storage

women are supposed to... today i'm sharing a spoken word inspired by a recent interaction with my daughter... i have so many thoughts about the expectations put on women... no matter their age   Here's a glance at this episode…  [0:42] women are supposed to... [1:03] what i'm trying to teach ava + myself [1:45] a thought on women empowerment [2:07] things i'm tired of... [2:35] instead, how about we...

after 14 years i have learned quite a few things about what it takes to make it through a busy season. there have been so many times where i was completely burnt out. as someone who is multi-passionate… i have realized how important it is to look at what systems are in place. so today i am sharing a few ways you can better prepare yourself for busy season.   Here's a glance at this episode…  [2:02] how to implement automations [2:49] how to stay on track [3:06] learning to delegate [3:37] how to utilize a calendar system [5:06] outlining seasons + marketing strategy [5:49] evaluating workflow systems

when it comes to behavioral analysis, personality research, or understanding human behavior... i can talk for hours... so it may come as no surprise that researching personality assessments and taking them frequently IS a favorite past time of mine. today i'm talking about a recent enneagram test that gave me the results i've been searching for for so long.  Here's a glance at this episode… Here's a glance at this episode… [2:54] my myers-briggs personality type [6:23] what I strongly believe  [11:24] drumroll... i am an enneagram...  [17:11] #1 - to become more self aware and operate from your highest good [17:20] #2 - it allows you to identify areas.... [17:39] #3 - understand how you can impact and... [17:55] #4 - it will give you deep insights on your... [18:10] #5 - ultimately you can better understand... [18:24] BONUS 

after years of trying to find the right fit... i've finally found a therapist i feel safe with! finding a good therapist is just like finding a good pair of britches -- sometimes you think they're gonna fit just right, and they end up not even comin' up over your thighs

today I'm answering some of the questions I get asked the most...  questions about my marriage, my health, and my associate team... to if I have a bucket list... my nicknames... and wrapping it all up with a few random ones just for fun!!! shoot me a DM on Instagram @sharonhundley if you have any questions for a future Q/A episode... and remember to let me know... what is the worst gift you've ever received... ahhhhh!!   Here's a glance at this episode… [0:51] what is the secret to your relationship?? [2:28] how are you feeling?! [4:16] how is your mom feeling?? [5:27] aren't you worried about your associate team.. [7:02] how long will you shoot weddings? [8:oo] what is on your bucket list?! [10:52] who is your favorite author?? [11:58] who is shay.. and what is sharonda?! [12:49] and... a few more.. just for fun...

today's episode is a little something fun.. it's spring break so I thought this would be a fun week to bring Miss Ava on the podcast for a little Q + A. you won't want to miss these questions she came up with..

You may remember back in episode 23 I mentioned this open book series.. I was inspired by Alisha Crossley's podcast called Imperfectly Polished! I loved hearing her read her written word and I was so inspired that I thought I'd give it a try too! So today we are continuing that series and I'm sharing an excerpt from something I wrote recently... Here's a glance at this episode… [1:34] what should my future book be about? [1:57] a decision I have to make [2:39] today's excerpt [4:08] Ava tells me.. [5:17] something I want to tell you

Today's heart to heart is with my sweet friend Dahlia Orth… we are already chatting about when she'll be back on the podcast for another conversation…  Dahlia is an online business manager for creatives, she used to work full time in ministry before going full time in her business... and as you'll see in today's episode… you can get through hard things and remain faithful.… I can't wait for you to hear some of her story… Here's a glance at this episode…  [2:28] "you can get through really hard things and remain faithful" [2:58] get to know Dahlia [8:22] "what does life look like now" [12:26] the moments when God radically shows up  [14:56] "sometimes a decision isn't good or bad.. it just is a decision" [20:03] "I don't feel like..." [23:37] what does prayer life look like? [30:42] "but how can God use me in this way with this condition" [42:34] you have to go through the hard things to see the mountaintop view  

Today I'm recapping a recent conversation with a friend about what it looks like to play small, what tendencies we have or share, and what it could look like if we stopped playing it safe and finally stepped out onto the stage. If you're questioning whether you're good enough.. smart enough.. or anything enough.. you're everything you need to be.   here's a glance at this episode…  [1:20] how playing it small can look different for everyone [2:36] some of the things I bet we have all asked ourselves [3:39] how we all deserve to live [4:37] a different perspective on "bloom where you've been planted"  

In today's episode I am walking through 5 of the best boundaries I have established in my business. I've made so many mistakes along the way and with each setback I've faced, I adjusted and grew from it. Let's walk through the best boundaries I established in light of these setbacks and let's talk about how the situations came about and how I handled it moving forward.

Is self-love the same thing as self-compassion... I'm not sure... apparently it's all new to me. Find out more in today's episode as I share a little about my journey with self-compassion!

Trigger Warning: sexual assault, rape, domestic violence Today's heart to heart with Amber Russell is powerful… we are already chatting about when she'll be back on the podcast for another conversation…  Amber is a mom of 5, a copywriter and storyteller, she's a photographer and an aspiring author… and as you'll see in today's episode… she is a warrior and a beacon of light… I can't wait for you to hear some of her story…    2:03 - get to know Amber 10:52 - "jokes take away from the power of the transformation" 16:42 -  trigger warning: “10, 11, 12… red used to be my favorite color” 30:33 - trigger warning: sexual assault, rape 37:00 - thoughts on “protecting men's eyes” and deconstructing church teachings 57:10 - trigger warning: domestic abuse and losing the ability to hear  1:10 - listen instead of always trying to fix and offer advice 1:15 - connect with Amber   https://amberleaphotos.com/ https://amberlearussell.com/ https://www.instagram.com/amberlearussell/   https://www.thehotline.org/ 1 800 799 7233 (SAFE)

Find out 5 things you may not know about Sharon! What did she want to be when she was growing up, her biggest fear, her hidden talent... it's all in today's silly and easy to listen episode!

Hosting a yearly retreat has been important to me since beginning my associate program a decade or so ago! Not only do we meet up every year to spend time together outside of 'work'.... but we also have yearly training days... in which we go through all things photography - from lighting to the fundamentals and we go through each part of the wedding day and work on posing and other fun things! In today's episode, you'll get a little peek inside what we did at this year's team retreat! If you are a photographer and have been toying around with the idea of bringing on a team (even if it's just one team member) - feel free to reach out to me! I believe the more heart we can bring together, the more we can serve our clients AND the more clients we can serve!

What is the longest you've ever gone without drinking your coffee.... as in, you forgot you made it and it's just been sitting on the counter?!  In today's episode, I'm sharing an episode recorded months prior to finding out that I do in fact have ADHD! What about you, do you find yourself trying to do all the things, while also getting nothing done? I'd love to hear some of your morning routines and thoughts -- send me a DM - let's have a heart to heart!

As we head into 2022, join me as I take a look back at what did and what didn't work in 2021, both personally and professionally.  Even if you don't run your own business, I encourage you to reflect back on things that did or didn't work in your life. I challenge you to be intentional as you work towards staying in alignment with where you see your life!  Connect with me over on Instagram - @sharonhundley - and share what you're working on this year!

Come find out how I feel about Direct Selling and MLM! Once you've listened, be sure to send me a DM over on instagram @Sharonhundley and share your thoughts too!

Lezandra McGinnis gets super vulnerable, super fast in this episode all about making bold decisions and learning to show up for yourself in all seasons of life! Find out how she went from literally begging someone for love and support to being that person for herself! Connect with Lezandra on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lezandraphoto/ Disclaimer: Adult Language

Ally of Five Cardinal Farms is on the podcast today talking all about homesteading and regenerative farming… Ally is a holistic farmer and educator and somehow she's also managed to get her kids on board with making better decisions too! Be sure to tune in to hear some helpful tips and tricks and how you can take one small step today towards eating healthier!!!   Connect with Ally on Instagram Visit her blog  

Adrienne of Hearts Content Event and Design joined the Dear Me Community recently and shared how one of the most tragic things in her life ended up as one of her greatest blessings... and she shares how she was able to find so many beautiful moments of joy will navigating through such a difficult season of life.  Connect with Adrienne on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/heartscontentevents/

in today's episode, i have my mumma, grandma and daughter gathered together in the living room for a little heart to heart!!! before you head below to listen – keep in mind that my grandma has alzheimer's disease and is quickly declining… and while she may not answer the questions ‘appropriately' – she still has so much wisdom and this episode will hands down be one of my favorite ones i'll ever record... asking questions and what a beautiful way to connect and cultivate deeper connections with the ones you love most!

A quick yet powerful episode that will hopefully challenge you to reframe the perspective you have of difficult seasons of life.

Tune in for a fun peek inside of a coaching call with Tampa Bay wedding and portrait photographer, Amanda Miller! 

such a fun episode as we head into vacation season!!! everyone is always asking what our favorite OBX restaurants and activities are - so take a listen and be sure to share your favorites with me over on the ‘gram too – @sharon hundley!!! can't wait to see if you love the same things/places we do… or not!   

Inside the Dear Me Community we often have guest speakers and today you're in for a treat! I am giving you an inside peek at one of our heart to hearts featuring the kindest soul you may ever meet, Ryann Winn. She opens up and shares about one of the toughest seasons in her life and how even when it made no sense, she had to make the decision to trust God! Connect with her on Insta -  @RyannWinnPhotography Grab your 30 FREE Journal Prompts!  

The Open Book Series was inspired by Alisha Crossley's podcast called Imperfectly Polished! I loved hearing her read her written word and I was so inspired that I thought I'd give it a try too! Be sure to connect with Alisha over on Instagram @imperfectlypolishedpodcast

Sharing 3 of my standout business mistakes, but let me ask you... how do you view a mistake?! Tune in to find out my thoughts!

Jessica Chenard of @herhikecollective is sharing how grieving the loss of her brother led to finding healing while hiking in one of the very places he loved most.

Kay opens up about what it's been like walking through losing your husband as a young mom - dating and remarrying... and ultimately finding yourself again. 

Lindsey Pace is a licensed counselor specializing in burnout – anxiety and depression… with a focus on caregivers… Lindsey is also in the medical field where she helps families in hospice navigate through making tough decisions…. We are having a heart to heart today about the different types of caregivers – and how burn out can present itself and also be a stepping stone to depression… we hope you walk away from today's chat knowing you're doing a good job and that this season won't last forever… www.lindseypacelcsw.com https://subscribepage.com/burnoutinventory Resources: https://www.betterhelp.com/ https://www.talkspace.com/ https://openpathcollective.org/  

A fun episode answering questions you submitted! We're talking about getting more engagement on Instagram, using Instagram reels, pivoting in business and more! Shoot me a DM on Instagram @sharonhundley if you have any questions for a future Q/A episode! 

Christina Barnum shares about some of her childhood anxieties and how they have affected who she is today... we also have a heart to heart on ways we try to stay away from the dark place that is depression.