Holistically Heal-Thy Self with Jess Pfeffer, Founder of Real Connections

Today I connected with Andrea Blanton, Owner and Nurturer of Food Earth Birth. Andrea has worn many hats in the Atlanta community including markets manager, School garden Educator, mother and birth worker. As a new form of engaging in agriculture, she's a part of the Black Sheep Fiber Collective. Food Earth Birth- A conduit of traditional practices in food preparation while stewarding the earth and assisting in birthing to reconnect with the self and community. Andrea Blanton was born in Camp Lejeune, NC and grew up in both Chicago, IL and Phoenix, AZ. She has a BA from Spelman College, a Community-Based Doula Certificate from First Families of GA and a Sustainable Urban Agriculture Certificate from HABESHA Inc. Andrea runs FOOD EARTH BIRTH influenced by southeastern seasonality, community vibes and divine whispers to assist in bringing forth new life via birth work, food offerings and herbs. She spends most of her time caring for her four children, shopping at farmers markets, and thinking of a master plan. You can find her gardening, talking about food and freedom and practicing pleasure. Website: https://www.foodearthbirth.com/ IG: foodearthbirth

Today I am chatting with Erica Clahar, Founder + Executive Director of Umi Feeds, aka Umi "mother, nurture, serve" Umi Feeds: Spreading Love Through Food "We are a food rescue organization that is dedicated to serving the hungry and homeless healthy and nutritious meals." What an appropriate name for Erica-- she is doing just that serving her community and nurturing people with food and resources. I loved learning more about Erica's journey into this work and all of the amazing programs she offers. I look forward to working with her soon on an event to share more information, increase awareness of her non-profit, and raise money to support all the work she does. website: https://umifeeds.org/ IG: @umifeeds

Today I connected with Dia Parker, Executive Director of Athena's Warehouse. I met Dia through The Lola, the women's CoWorking space we are both members of. She is such a bright signing star doing so much for the community. It was so great to chat and learn more about her childhood and what led her to be more involved with the community she grew up in. As an executive Director of an amazing local nonprofit she is impressive and inspiring. Athena's Warehouse Inc. promotes kinship to female, non-binary, and gender non-conforming students to build their confidence through mentorship, scholarship, and workshops that focus on their personal & professional development. For over a decade we've provided scholarships, workshops, and mentorship for youth ages 14-25. We're breaking the cycle of poverty with a holistic wellness initiative called "Discover Your Inner Warrior." Each week participants are educated on domestic violence, reproductive health, emotional wellbeing, and how to apply for college.  Website: https://www.athenaswarehouse.org/ IG @athenaswarehouse  To learn more and connect with Dia visit Calendly: bit.ly/meetwithaw 

Today I am chatting with Carolynn Ladd, of Carolynn Ladd Holistic Health, Private Holistic Chef + Integrative Nutrition Health Coach. What a treat to interview my dear friend Carolynn! I loved learning more about her journey and her new chapter in her life. As a private holistic chef for years she has helped many(including me) get more comfortable in the kitchen and learn yummy healthy inspired dishes. Carolynn chats on what it means to be "healthy" and how it is different for everyone. Her new brand and website are launched and we are excited to see all she does with it! website: carolynnladd.com IG @carolynnholistichealth

Today I connected with Courtney Marshall, Owner of Spirit and Soul, Mobile bar owner, podcaster, and writer. I met Courtney a couple of years back at an event by A Sip of Paradise a local community garden for bartenders. As soon as we met I loved her energy and we have been in touch since then, and luckily now have worked together at an event, and have another one coming up soon. Courtney shares the importance of self care and although her company is her "child" she needs to nourish and take care of herself, just like she would to a "plant". Spirit and Soul Mobile Bar Co. is a luxury mobile bar service - serving private and corporate clients Courtney's podcast: Spirit and Soul Podcast is a platform that highlights creatives, entrepreneurs, thought provokers, and educators within the hospitality industry. Website:https://www.spiritandsoulatl.com/ IG: spiritandsoulatl

Today I chatted with my friend Megan, Reiki Practitioner + Sound Healer, Founder of Megan Ellen Ratts. I love how vulnerable and real she is when she shares her story of who she is and why she does what she does. She is such a light and force the way she shows up for her community and is also a great connector! Every time we chat or hang out she connects me to another amazing local women doing great things too! Megan is raw and real and inspires me to be the same, I hope she will do the same for you. "My life's mission is to create an environment of deep healing for others to fully pursue their passions and true joy." Website: https://www.meganellenratts.com/ IG @meganellenratts

Today I connected with a friend and colleague Andrea Berg, a human design guide, speaker, and coach. I met Andrea a couple of months ago at our women's co-working space the Lola here in Atlanta. We quickly got to know each other and seemed to have a lot in common. I was mesmerized by her energy and she shared with me a bit about human design, something I had never heard of. What's your birth chart? Yep, that's the first step to finding yours out and it's amazing how much we learn about ourselves through it. Andrea gives a brief overview of some of the energy types and how knowing them is helpful in your personal and professional lives. "Decondition from supremacy culture + experience more satisfaction, success, peace + surprise" https://andreawardberg.com/ IG @andreawardberg

Today's episode is with a dear friend and client, Deborah Fleming, Founder of Walnut Life Foods. As always I learn something new from her. She is a wise woman who is eager to share health and wellness tips for the community. Deborah offers classes and creates and sells the most delicious taco meat, made by Walnuts! If you have been to the Grant Park market on Sundays you are sure to have seen her. Giving out delicious taco meat on chips which is one of the many ways to eat her product. Now with her own commercial kitchen Walnut Life Foods is hitting the next level at local restaurants, retail stores, and Peachtree Road Market on Saturdays. "Be service to her community, health disparities she noticed of what folks are doing or what they're not doing" and that is how Walnut Life Foods was born! Learn more about Walnut Life Foods www.walnutlife.co IG @livingthatwalnutlife

Today I connected with Poorvi Chordia, Co-Founder of Herbs + Kettles, an MD and tea sommelier We chatted about the wellness aspect of tea, her balancing her various roles as a mother, wife, doctor, and business owner, and the importance of living a holistic lifestyle. Poorvi uses the practice of steeping and drinking tea as a metaphor for life, "go with the flow, and let it go". Poorvi shared her journey to co-owning a tea company and how she connects western and eastern medical practices with her teas. She and her husband co-own this company that sells in person at farmers' markets in #atlanta and also is available online. Website IG:@herbsandkettles

Today I connected with Octavia Raheem author of Pause Rest Be and Gather And Founder of Starshine + Clay. Octavia leads rest-based experiences that awaken creative potential, ignite possibility, and inspire bold action within high-achieving individuals and visionary companies + organizations who positively impact our world. We chatted on the importance of rest( using meditation or a pause) and her curiosity that brought her to her mat. She reminded us of the great quote by Alice walker, “I think it pisses God off if you walk by the color purple in a field somewhere and don't notice it. People think pleasing God is all God cares about. But any fool living in the world can see it always trying to please us back.” Upcoming offering: Devoted To Rest: Rest Based Mastermind Immersion & RetreatDates: January 21, 2023- June 25, 2023 Website: https://octaviaraheem.com/ IG: @ocatviaraheem

Today I am chatting with Danielle Grey, Co-Founder of World of Unoia. Unoia (which means beautiful thinking) is an Atlanta based, premium CBD lifestyle and product company focused on mental health, mindfulness and self-care. As a black, queer woman couple, founders Brandé Elise and Danielle Gray wanted to create a CBD brand with a soul that is completely invested in their customers' mental wealth and self-care journey. Born in Georgia, Danielle Gray, MBA has always been a bit out of the box - it makes sense how naturally marketing comes to her. She has owned and operated her marketing firm, DG Marketing Co. since 2016 and has traveled the country speaking to over 10,000 people. She developed and designed the UNOIA logo, brand and all marketing materials. Danielle + Brande started this business to help people with their self-care and mental health. CBD has been known to help with anxiety, depression and overall stress. World of Unoia sells CBD for humans and for dogs. One specific way cannabinoids are helpful for sleep is from the CBN strand which is in their night night product line. World of Unoia can be purchased online or if you are local to #atlanta, visit the Village Market in Ponce City Market and check out their whole product line, supporting the local community.

Today I connected with Kacie Lett Gordon and Katie Louise Mullins, Founders of It All Media. I met these lovely ladies a little while back at the Lola, a women's co-working space in Atlanta. Kacie shared her story and the creation of It All Media with her BFF Katie and I knew I needed to get to know them better. We chatted about work/ life balance and the need to share women's stories in order to heal and process it. Their media company which includes a podcast has brought on amazing research and they have concluded from it: 1. Modern womanhood includes tensions and impossible standards of a stereotypical “it all” that leads to feelings of inadequacy, insecurity, unfulfillment and unhappiness. 2. A system performs exactly how it's designed; work, life, family, community and relationship systems were not designed by or for women and/or non-traditional paths. 3. We cannot be what we don't see; there is a deficit in narratives of women living life on their own terms without judgment or “otherness” in macro society and micro life. Website: itallmedia.co sign up for their weekly newsletter IG: @itallmedia Podcast: Weekly Fuck It All, modern women redefining it all Releasing their course- "help women build a life they don't need to escape from"

Today I connected with Kerri Kelly, Author of American Detox and Founder of CTZN WELL. I recently discovered this amazing human being by watching her IG live with my favorite yoga teachers, Seane Corn. Her book has really opened by eyes to the world of wellness and the part I play in it. We chatted on her book and her journey to writing it. Kerri is currently doing a book tour for it and will be in Atlanta this Fall. In American Detox, organizer, yoga activist, wellness disruptor, and CTZNWELL founder Kerri Kelly sounds the wake-up call. It's time to commit to the radical work of unlearning the toxic messages we've been fed–to resist, disrupt, and dream better futures of what wellness really means. IG: @kkellyyoga sign up for Wellread CTZNWELL Join her book club: Learn.americandetox.co

Today I connected with Denayja Reese, Producer and author of Don't Hurt Yourself. I was lucky enough to meet her at the Lola here in Atlanta. She was there for a live podcast interview and featured film and conversation on her book Don't Hurt Yourself. I was quickly mesmerized by her story and knew I had to connect with her and invite her on this! She is such an inspiration and a reminder of all the chapters in our own personal books we are "writing". A great take-home tip, is to write your own happiness list! Denayja Reese is an LA-based Strategist, Producer, Project Manager, Writer & Host whose diverse career journey has meant seamlessly moving through industries, markets and projects to execute, innovate and inspire. She has managed over $600K+ in sponsorship revenue with companies like Toyota, Etsy, YouTube, Spotify & more. Producing events featuring world-renowned speakers and creating content for Coachella. Additionally, she has produced music videos for Bosco and June's Diary. She is an active community-builder, weaver and guide who is committed to spiritual healing and growth in her evolving human experience. Her website is www.denayjareese.com and she can be found on Instagram @donthurtyourself, on Twitter @girlwthatlaugh & @denayjareese on TikTok.

Today I connected with Eileen Lee of The Lola + Dayle Bennett of Number 4 Design Studio. I am lucky enough to have met these ladies a few months ago when I joined the Lola. The Lola is a network of diverse, smart-minded womxn, allies, and accomplices located in Atlanta, Georgia. Eileen is the co-founder and Dayle focuses on the culture of the community, while also owning her own company. The two of them share their journey and their instant chemistry. Martine(co-founder) and Eileen came together to build The Lola out of their shared desire to support and empower womxn. They believe womxn are vastly underserved and under-supported, yet remain driven, ambitious and hungry to find and re-define their success. The Lola is a great example of community and how women can stick together and form alliances rather than being competitive. Website: https://the-lola.com/ Ig @thelola_women Ig @number4designstudio

Today I connected with Robby Astrove, an environmental educator and arborist. Robby was raised in Florida and his love of nature began as a child on his field trip to the Everglades. Through passion and curiosity about nature and wildlife in general, Robby continued his education and went to grad school to learn more about environmental education and has worked many jobs doing so. Trees Atlanta really set the trajectory for Robby planting trees and his love of Serviceberries. Currently, the park manager of Arabia Mountain, his side hustles include foraging and working with schools and personal home gardens. He loves hiking not just at work but also in his spare time. Robby is gearing up for 2 upcoming fruit-related events. May 28th is the fruit ramble with Concrete Jungle and June 2 is the Serviceberry Festival with me! (Real Connections) Ig @serviceberryfestatl

Today I connected with Kaley Deck the Founder of Honey and Quartz. Kaley wants to "help as many women as possible feel their true beauty—from the inside out—in this lifetime. We've dimmed our lights and played small for far too long. It's our time to shine." She shared with us one of her training with HeartMath Institute and how she learned and agrees with the importance of how our hearts play a role in our mental body. The heart is the nucleus and the pathway to be able to connect with true essence Kaley offers monthly healing workshops called The Hive, on zoom and has a monthly membership called Haven, which is an incubator of healing, Ig @honeyandquartz honeyandquartz.com @kaley.decker kaleydecker.com

Today I connected with Michelle Turner-Young, Owner of Soulfire Movement. Michelle is a dance artist from Boston, MA of 10 years, the Owner of SOULFIRE MOVEMENT, and a Mom of twin girls, building an artist and family legacy through the mindfulness movement. We chatted about her story of what brought her to use dance and meditation for her own journey to living a healthier more meaningful life. The mission of her business is to bring a fun new outlook to mindfulness and contribute to a happy & healthy society. They want to provide a solution-various tools and techniques that anyone can implement into their everyday routine to live balanced and with bliss. https://www.soulfiremovement.com/ Download app— on-demand platform @soulfiremovement

Today I connected with Cory Mosser, Progenitor— Natural Born Tillers. Cory has always had food as his focus from being in the farm industry to a chef and started his firm that creates edible landscaping for residential and commercial clients. He loves to connect people to their food not just as a consumer but "what can you do from the perspective of the individual, what does growing food mean to you? " I enjoyed learning about how Cory relates what he does to art: " I feel a sense of creativity using urban landscape as the canvas" IG @naturalborntillers Website: https://www.naturalborntillers.com/

Today I connected with Shannon Smith, Founder of SoulShine Schools in Atlanta, GA. We spoke on the importance of collaboration between parents, teachers, the children and the community. Shannon has 3 locations with the newest one in East Atlanta Village(opens April 18th). Their goal is not simply to build a strong, warm and nurturing connection with each child, but to extend that connection to their community of parents. Soulshine Schools are permaculture-inspired, local and vegetarian and use the whole child approach. She shares with us what it is like to start an amazing movement and the balance of having her own family, farm and the importance of support. Website: https://www.soulshineschools.com/ IG: @soulshineschools

Today I connected with Tyler Thompson, organizer of the Atlanta Green Market Fair. He is a returned Peace Corps Volunteer (Albania 2013-15) and cross-continental cyclist (7,000 miles from Prudhoe Bay, Alaska to Key West, Florida). In 2019, was inspired to bring his father's ideas to life. That is, to find a way to coordinate collective consumer action to advance market-based solutions to environmental problems. Tyler's work to ignite a green-consumer revolution begins in his hometown with the Atlanta Green Market Fair. We chatted on how biking taught him so many life lessons that are mindful and intentional similar to the practice of yoga and meditation. Tyler's intention is to create a "sandbox" where companies, consumers, and the community can come together to create a "greener" lifestyle. April 23rd, 10-6PM inaugural Atlanta Green Market Fair at Ponce City Market. Day starts off with 9-1am yoga, planned by Real Connections. Website: www.atlgreen.market IG @atlgreen.market

Today I connected with Kashi Sehgal, the CEO & Co-Founder of Retazza, a women and minority-owned enterprise that strives to make local food more accessible and affordable, directly supports our communities' farmers, and reconnects consumers to their food, and feeds families struggling with food insecurity. We chatted on the reason why she co-founded Retazza acknowledging that fresh, local food is hard to find - and expensive. 1 in 7 Georgians experiences food insecurity, including 1 in 5 children. As a seasoned entrepreneur, Kashi believes it's important to notice the “impact you're creating and the change you can make together as a community”. https://www.retaaza.com/ IG @retaazaco

Today I connected with Keyatta Mincey-Parker, Owner and Operator of a Sip of Paradise Garden. Keyatta is a creative cocktail mixologist doing bigs things for her community of bartenders and the community of Atlanta in general. A Sip of Paradise, her 501c3 non-profit bartender community garden based in Atlanta welcomes all bartenders currently in the business or prior, a place for the community that is always helping others to help themselves with healthy ingredients and wellness programming. The garden hosts mindful Mondays which include yoga, breathwork, meditation and walking foraging classes. (keep your eyes on the schedule for yoga with me!) www.asipofparadisegarden.org @asipofparadisegarden

Today I connected with Evan Neal, Farmer of Chattahoochee Queen. We chatted on the importance of soil and the parallel it has to human's health, how what we put in and on our body helps us "flourish" just like plants. Evan shares with us tips on how to keep his fresh cut flowers longer and what it is like to be an urban farmer in Atlanta, GA. Evans grows specialty cut flowers using sustainable methods on a small scale in an urban environment. He intentionally focuses on building soil quality, utilizing space efficiently, and choosing what he considers( as a flower expert of course!) to be the most captivating, durable flower varieties. Website: https://chattahoocheequeen.com/ IG: @chattahoocheequeen

Today I connected with Brandi Shelton, the Founder of just add honey tea company. We chatted on all things tea! She tries to source locally from farmers and has studied a variety of teas from all over the world. Starting out at farmer's markets, then her first store, and now selling online Brandi and her team are doing big things for Atlanta and worldwide. Brandi is focusing on programming again with tea rituals and tea tastings as well as teaming up with me for yoga and mindfulness programming this Spring. Soon the retail cafe will also have its own tasting room. The beauty of tea is that there is such a variety and so many flavors for everyone's individual pallet. There are a few aha moments in the episode when Brandi shares the difference between tea and herbs plus her favorite tea, Chai. Website: www.justaddhoney.net IG @justaddhoney

Today I connected with James Carr, Founder of Farmers Jam, a collective of farmers and friends who play music, make jam, and plant fruit trees. Farmers Jam spreads joy through live music and local food and all of their jams, events and merch help them plant more trees on local farms. James chatted about how food connects people and the community. After being around farmers and his lineage of Irish agriculture James decided to create this initiative. And discussed the importance of how "soil heals the planet, which then heals us" Farmers Jam creates a fun vibe wherever it is, be it at Earth Day events, Serviceberry Fest, or local farmers markets. Continuing to spread "jam" with their own podcast, Farmers Jam Radio, James and his crew of farmers are jamming out on stage and in fruit orchards near you ( GA based for now!) https://www.thefarmersjam.com/ IG @farmersjamatl

Today I connected with Danielle Brunson, Co-Founder and COO of The Namaste Project, yoga, mindfulness, + meditation teacher. Danielle began her career working in the school system as a teacher and continued up the ladder to being a principal followed by a corporate coach. Using her own personal experience with yoga, breathwork, and mindfulness she decided to start The Namaste Project with a friend of hers, Dr. Kali Arnold. Together they share mindfulness practices at public schools in hopes to teach the tools teachers and administration can use to regulate their nervous systems and decrease their stress. The Namaste Project provides mindfulness training to schools, businesses, community organizations and parents in order to #spreadthecalm and improve communities. http://daniellebrunson.com https://thenamasteproject.net/

Today I connected with Nalini Mehti on all things Ayurveda. Nalini is based out of Atlanta after living all over the world. Her personal experience with the loss of her father when she was 21 and moving to India to take care of her mother with Cancer led her on this path. Nalini shares with us how she used meditation and traditional ayurvedic practices to improve her mental and physical health. Nalini created a program for chefs and the hospitality industry to use Sky Breathing for their own personal well-being. She emphasizes the importance of energy and how the mood and breath we have while cooking is passed onto the food. She shared on her self care practices and Ayurveda's emphasis on eating seasonally as well as daily routines. A tip was to use sesame or mustard oil! Link to Intro to Ayurveda Culinary Program video : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5bpvk_UcqPE Event: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/yoga-of-cooking-ayurveda-online-cooking-classes-4-sessions-tickets-141485004457 Sky Breathing routetoindia.com

In today's episode, I connected with Heather Berg, Founder of Soul Garden Yoga, who is a trained yoga, meditation, and breathwork teacher. We talked about how Heather was introduced to the Buteyko Breath Method after reading James Nestor's book, Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art. Her love of diving deeper into different breathwork modalities for her personal and professional practice inspired Heather to study with Patrick McKeown to become a Buteyko instructor. She continues to observe positive changes not only in her own health (better sleep, lessening of menopausal symptoms, and more energy) but with her yoga and corporate clients. Heather Berg, E-RYT, is a former Montessori teacher who has been a yoga practitioner since 1990 where, as a college student, she took her first “Intro to Sun Salutations” at NYU. She was eclectic in her seeking of different yoga traditions over her 20 plus years, but it wasn't until her yoga training with Leslie Glickman, where she was formally trained in Vinyasa Krama (detailed science of sequencing) did she find her true calling. Website IG @heatherbergyoga

In today's episode, I connected with Dr. Nikki Davis, a psychologist at Therapeutic Oasis Of Palm Beaches + mindfulness faculty at Sacred Treehouse. We chatted about how helpful mindfulness practices have been for her personal + professional life. Nikki shares what mindfulness is and the practices we can learn during Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR). MBSR is a mindfulness educational program designed to teach individuals who are suffering from physical or emotional pain how to take better care of themselves and live happier lives. (8 sessions) Dr. Nicole Davis starts with the core belief that each person already has everything they need to live a life of joy and fulfillment, and that therapy is just a process of uncovering their inherent wholeness. Utilizing her diverse education and experience, Dr. Davis gently invites her clients to uncover their strengths in a safe and non-judgmental environment. Website IG @mindfulnikkid

In today's episode I connected with Suzanne Gundersen, Natural Stress Relief Mentor. We talked about the vagus nerve and how she offers somatic exercises and tools to relax the nervous system. She shared some easy to do at-home steps to lower anxiety and stress, including tapping one of her signature tools in her programs. Suzanne Gundersen is a Speaker, Mentor & Teacher of Stress Resilience Solutions. She empowers people to naturally transform their stress, and reconnect with their bodies & their lives. Suzanne's personal struggle with chronic anxiety and emotional eating led her to seek alternative approaches that helped her shed layers of dysfunction, drop hundreds of pounds and use of anxiety meds. Along the way she uncovered her value and now lives with self-honor, compassion and grit & grace. In her stress relief toolbox, she uses Neuro-Energy Tapping (her unique style) and Somatic Self-Regulation Techniques (including TRE- Trauma Release Exercises, Vagal Toning exercises, and SSP- Safe & Sound Protocol). Website IG @transfromedconnections

In today's episode, I connected with Kim Marrone, Acupuncturist + Functional Medicine Practitioner. We talked about the increase of autoimmune in younger patients as of recently and her view on the reasons behind it. Kim shares the benefits and ways that acupuncture can help prevent + reverse chronic disease, along with other modalities they use such as cupping and gua sha. Kim is an active member of a local Delray Beach nonprofit, Wise Tribe that is dedicated to helping bring health, wellness, and food citizenship to her younger school-aged community. In keeping with the goal of making health attainable for everyone, Kim has put together an incredible team of devoted, nurturing, and knowledgeable Wellness Practitioners. Together we have 40+ years of combined experience providing compassionate, individualized, and high-quality holistic care rooted in the wisdom of Traditional Chinese Medicine, while also understanding the value and efficacy of Functional Medicine and Holistic Nutrition. Website IG @evolve_acupuncturedelray

In today's episode, I connected with Ewa Josefsson a certified hypnosis practitioner who specializes in subconscious reprogramming. We talked about her journey from being a yoga teacher, to dream yoga also referred to as "lucid dreaming", and why she became a hypnosis practitioner. She describes the process as "freeing" for both her and the clients she works with. A common request she has from her clients is for a confidence boost. Many people have negative self-talk which really impedes their mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Other requests have been to change habits, cure phobias, and manage pain. Ewa Josefsson is a certified hypnotist with a background in yoga, meditation and mindfulness. She has a BA in Journalism and Communication from Gothenburg, Sweden and is now based out of Miami, Florida. Website IG @ewa_hypnosis Free hypnosis

In today's BONUS episode, I connected with Jocelyn & Aaron Freeman of Meet the Freemans. They are authors of The New Power Couple, and The Argument Hangover® + founders of Empowered Couples University. We talked about the importance of communication and conflict resolution in romantic partnerships. They shared about their morning routine of meditation, journaling, and connecting before they start their workday at 11 AM. Congrats to them for becoming first-time parents! The Freemans are based out of AZ, but offer their classes, workshops and retreats virtually and all over the country. They have shared the stage with Tony Robbins, have been guest instructors at universities like UCLA, and were nominated as Arizona's 40 Under 40 Influencers. Free Hard Copy of Book Website Ig @meet_thefreemans

In today's episode, I connected with Jess Prestia better known as jessbeinspired. We talked about Reiki, energy, and crystals. She is a Reiki Master, Certified Meditation Teacher with Davidji, Energy Reader, Crystal, and Sound Healer. Her heart's intention and vision are to help inspire others to connect to their highest self. Jess offers distant Reiki Readings, Healing & Spiritual Coaching sessions + for locals in SoFla she hosts events on the beach. @jessbeinspired Website

In today's episode, I connected with Linda Andrews CEO of Lila Life. We talked about her journey from the finance world into being a wellness coach. She expressed her take on romance and how pleasure can be "all around us in our daily lives". Linda shares her experience with marriage as a sacred union, living daily in the "honeymoon" phase, and the importance of choosing her partner over and over again. Linda leads the Lila Life coaches & healers to serve our clients at the highest level. As host of The Lila Life Show podcast, you can hear the latest teachings and interviews on consciousness. Linda left her 7-year Wealth Management career in 2018 to step fully into being a coach and healer and created Lila Life. She graduated from Rutgers with a double major in Psychology and Journalism and was captain of the Varsity Swim Team. She studied yoga, fitness, meditation, health/spiritual/life/business coaching which were huge inspirations to Lila Life and her obsession with wellbeing. In her free time, she is cooking, playing, and adventuring with her hubby Brendon and their 2 pups Lilyrose & Luna. She loves the soil and creating. Website IG @withlindaandrews

In today's episode, I connected with Shelby Seidler, Realtor + Business Coach. We talked about social relationships/ friendships and how we are all the "average of our 5 closest friends". Influenced by Tony Robbins, a psychology degree, and a self-proclaimed "self-help book junkie", Shelby co-hosts monthly events in Delray Beach. She and her friend Jamie Leigh Mackey created these reoccurring events in order for others to have "real connections". She shares about her friend dates and how she loves to ask deep questions even from the get-go. ?I'm a realtor with Keller Williams, and I work with my fiance Justin Himmelbaum. I also work online as a business coach to online female coaches in different industries and have an Instagram community where I teach confidence, self-worth, business skills, and motivation. I host monthly events and I'm building a community of boss babes that help each other out and hold each other accountable to living a bigger life." IG @shelby.seidler

In today's episode, I connected with Colleen Reagan Noon M.Ed, the founder of Imajery Jane Publishing and a birth and parenting educator at her business The Respected Child. She has two young boys and lives in Delray Beach, Florida. We talked about the changes she made in her own parenting habits after discovering her husband's addiction to pain pills, which changed her financial situation as well as having a 2 parent household. In her role as a birth and parenting educator Colleen focuses on those who are parenting while recovering from trauma or substance abuse. Teaching them how to process the past to achieve stronger relationships with themselves, their partners, and their children "Instead of focusing on how it looks, focus on how it feels" Website @wisewomenbookcollective FB Group: wisewomenbookcollective

In today's episode, I connected with Jen Todd, Co-Founder of 8evolve. We talked about how important it was for her to work in different industries collecting information and lessons that led her to co-create a wellness app. Jen's experience in the tech world and finance has helped her share her expertise with the health + wellness industry. She and her business partner Irina Vlada have the vision to share alternative modalities worldwide at a time where many people are seeking holistic healers and prefer it to be virtual. Jen's innate ability to multi-task as a wife, mother, and entrepreneur is inspiring to the team that works with her(including me!) As a Business Consultant, Jen has spent the last few years independently consulting for small businesses and creating mindful connections. Previously, Jen co-founded two tech startups and led efforts for a private hedge fund and a cryptocurrency fund. She also held various business development and management roles within the financial services industry for companies including Morgan Stanley and Lloyds TSB Bank. Over the years her biggest accomplishment has been creating a strongly connected group of incredible professionals. Website IG @8evolveapp

In today's episode, I connected with Arianne Traverso, owner of BizYogi. We talked about the "work bucket" and how she took the leap by starting her own holistic business coaching to help conscious + holistic women. Her background in marketing, advertising, and graphic design has positioned her in a place to help with all facets of building or bettering a holistic business. And as an acro yoga practitioner and teacher, she is sharing her ways of "being flexible" with everyone she works with. Coming from a long line of business owners, Arianne is inspired constantly to make it happen through effort, passion, and fun work. This is why and how she took the plunge to step off the path of what's comfortable and make something AWESOME for herself and those around her. With over a decade in the Yoga industry building programs, training, retreats and opening a successful studio in Miami, I've been there and done that. Making many mistakes along the way, which taught me quickly. That's WHY I will help you SKIP those mistakes and create a quick path to results. Website Ig @ari.biz.yogi

In today's episode, I connected with Jacqueline Botting, Founder + Executive Director of WiseTribe. We talked about Jacqueline's work and personal experience and how it led her to create a local non-for-profit that "fosters connection". Jacqueline's desire to help co-create a wiser world Is by sharing it through food, learning + well-being. She, the board, and the community have teamed up with local schools and gardens with the vision to foster a world "filled with positive, passionate change-makers, not just passive citizens and consumers, who are motivated and empowered to contribute to the scale of change required to thrive in the 21st Century." Jacqueline's experience incorporates a blend of grassroots leadership with economic and business development for governments, start-ups, and Fortune 500 companies. Her background makes her well equipped to think broadly about the factors impacting a rapidly evolving world. She is driven to bring communities together to cultivate new ways of thinking and behaviors which lead to healthy living and lifelong learning. As the leader of WiseTribe, her passion inspires others to step into new possibilities and take action towards building a wiser world. Website IG @wisetribe

In today's episode, I connected with Judy Weaver, yoga therapist, Co-Founder of Connected Warriors + Yoga Unify. We talked about the benefits of yoga for veterans and others who have experienced a variety of trauma. Judy is a great community leader and shares some powerful statistics on mental health. As a co-founder of Yoga Unify she is spearheading the new paradigm of the future of yoga and yoga therapists. Judy Weaver is a yoga therapist and a teacher of teachers with over 30 years of experience and is the founder of Connected Warriors and Bodymind Recalibration. Judy is known for her expertise in the world of trauma and developed Trauma-Conscious Yoga based on the understanding that trauma is held in the cells of the body and mind and refined this practice with Bodymind Recalibration which builds cognitive and somatic bodymind relationships. As a member of Yoga Alliance Advisory Board, On-line Presenter, part of their Core Curriculum Working Group, significant contributor to several books and university lectures, Judy has been able to share her passion for this practice of yoga to support the yoga community. Website IG @judyconnectedwarriors

In today's episode, I connected with Dr. Shivani Gupta, an Ayurvedic Practitioner, and entrepreneur. We talked about the importance of self-care and ways to have vibrant immunity, including sleep hygiene. I like to refer to her as the "Sleep Queen". As a busy wife and mother of two, she understands the challenges modern women face when it comes to putting their health and wellbeing first. Unfortunately for many women self-care has become a dirty word and yet another unrealistic expectation on our never-ending to-do list. Success and self-care go hand in hand. The more you care for yourself, the happier you will be and less likely to reach for things that aren't good for you. Self-care doesn't need to be one more thing you add to your to-do list. Finding a few extra minutes each day can have a profound impact on health. Hormone Rebalance Tea is here! It's a delicious jasmine sencha green tea with the perfect Ayurvedic herbs to help support you. This ReBalancing tea helps balance your hormones, improves symptoms of PMS, and can boost your libido. In addition, it has a cooling effect on menopause symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats. Check out the amazing ingredients! An Organic Tea Blend with Sencha green tea from Japan, Jasmine, Vana Tulsi, Rama Tulsi, Krishna Tulsi, Fenugreek, Fennel Seeds, Shatavari, Amla and Lychee Website IG: @dr.shivanigupta IG @fusionaryformulasrx

In today's episode, I connected with Earl Valentovic co-owner of Bonsai Brothers located in Loxahatchee, FL. We talked about the meaning of Bonsai " tree and pot" and the many trees you can use for Bonsai. Earl's go-to favorites are: ficus + juniper. As an artist and musician Earl's dexterity was the perfect fit to enter the bonsai world once he retired. Bonsai is both artistic and horticultural. Just like humans, the bonsai needs attention to the soil, watering, and sunlight. Bonsai tree and accessory sales at their nursery and welcome visits by appointment. They also provide tree sitting services and help with your Bonsai Trees. For more info: Facebook You can find them at Green Markets in the Palm Beach area + at plant sales at Mounts Botanical in the Fall.

In today's episode, I connected with Rachel Mezza + Michiko Kurisu, permaculture and nature enthusiasts and stewards of the Earth. We talked about the transition from having a community garden into sharing a food forest with the community instead. Rachel + Michiko discuss the benefits of working in nature and how their food forest is inviting to all. As two dedicated volunteers, they share how they remain in "flow" and how weeding and gardening contribute to their physical and mental health. Located in downtown Delray Beach, Florida at 30 N Swinton Ave, SCGP is a perma-pop-up project guided equally by the principles of permaculture and by our need for short-term, intensive growing. Seeking to enrich our understanding of how caring for plants and the earth is to care for ourselves, SCGP's food forest addresses existing airflow, microclimates, and inherent energy of the space to utilize a myriad of growing methods and structures. We grow food in traditional raised beds, beautiful log beds, in storied planting guilds and portable grow bags. Often we just let food grow where it plants itself. Facebook IG @swintoncgp

In today's episode, I connected with Autumn Kioti an artist, naturalist and storyteller. We talked about how nature can connect you to mindfulness, different animals, how she shares environmental + social justice through art, nature and community. Autumn uses inspirations from nature, animal documentaries and scientific studies, their own search for identity and community, and processes including botanical and traditional printmaking, collagraph, cyanotype, pen and ink, non-traditional watercolor techniques, found object art, journaling, narrative and poetry, they create two and three-dimensional art and installation, as well as programming and performances. Past artist residencies and collaborations include the NYC Audubon Society, the Santa Fe Art Institute, Art Monastery Italia (Italy), NOoSphere Arts, Rohi's Readery, ecoAmerica, Resource Depot, Wild Bird Fund, American Littoral Society, and more. It is Autumn's wildest hope that the narratives they create bring viewers and participants closer to an understanding that humans are of nature and not separate from it; dismantling the idea of the scala naturae, and planting our feet firmly on the Earth besides our non-human brethren. Website

In today's episode, I connected with Shauna Rollf a food enthusiast + manager of a local farm in Loxahatchee, Fl. We talked about how nourishing it is to work in nature daily. Shauna shared with us the health benefits of mushrooms and some vegan dish ideas to use them. Shauna and her team are at weekly local farmer's markets in the season and are the only organic certified farm in the area. They pride themselves on the owner's story of healing himself with a raw vegan diet and changing his overall lifestyle when he and his wife opened their farm. Website Ig @gratitudegardenfarm

In today's episode, I connected with Sucha Kumar, Founder of Live Blissed + Movement Fusion Instructor. We talked about "finding her truth" with yoga being a foundation. She discusses the benefits of fasting(including mental clarity + skin improvements) and why it's so important to "live yoga, not just do yoga". Sucha grew up practicing Indian classical dance, hiking, swimming but hated P.E. all through grade school. She thought fitness meant “running” and despised running! She eventually took her first group fitness class at 24-hour fitness when she was 16 (was too scared to be the only gal lifting weights in the gym) which really unleashed her curiosity for all types of training. She is a 500hr RYT but has been practicing yoga for 15+ years and has spent the past 12 years marrying herself to different sports/movement arts at months/years at a time to explore, experiment, and find purpose in the said style of training. This includes dance, swimming, basketball, weightlifting, HIIT, kickboxing, calisthenics with added variations of each movement modality. Website @primal.yogi @liveblissed

In today's episode, I connected with Ryann Morris, an Ayurvedic Chef and Nutritional Health Coach. We talked about her go-to spices and herbs(coriander, fennel, cumin, + turmeric), the importance of food combinations, + her mission to help you “eat your way to better health”. Ryann is a lover of nature, a mother, wife and best friend, cyclist, hula hooper, swimmer, and food enthusiast. She loves to create, be in the kitchen, dance, laugh, sing and feel the beat. Every day it is important for her to pause and to feel her surroundings, be silent and be rooted. For many years she struggled with digestive problems that resulted as a side effect of having to take a lot of antibiotics to treat a serious life-threatening surgical complication. It caused her to have an overwhelming bout of bacterial overgrowth, leaky gut, parasitic infection, liver and gallbladder issues. It ultimately resulted in massive distension, pain, and malnutrition. Her health has caused agony, sorrow, depression and confusion. It caused her to miss out on many life events. "Ayurveda is based on the belief that health and wellness depend on a delicate balance between the mind, body, and spirit. Its main goal is to promote good health, not fight disease. But treatments may be geared toward specific health problems." Website IG: @food_brilliance

In today's episode, I connected with Melissa Perlman, Founder + Ceo of BlueIvy Communications. Melissa doesn't only move fast in her career but also when she isn't working, she's a marathon runner. She has run half marathons and full marathons all over the world. Melissa shares how she prepares both physically and mentally before any race. She connects the importance of movement in her life to her overall well-being and recognizes the need to take breaks also. Melissa resides in Delray Beach, Florida. She has represented Team USA in the Maccabi Games in Israel three times (1997, 2013, 2017) and twice in Europe (2015, 2019). Melissa is currently Chair of all Endurance Sports for Team USA heading to the World Maccabi in 2022. She is also a Board Member of Maccabi USA, a founding member of the Maccabi USA Future Leaders Forum, and sits on the Friends of Brown Track & Field Executive Board. Melissa is a competitive marathon runner with goals of qualifying for the 2024 USA Olympic Trials. Website Ig @melrunsfast

In today's episode, I connected with Sara Green of Sara Green Consulting. We talked about how she became a health + wellness consultant after feeling empowered by giving natural childbirth. Sara shares the importance of "meeting people where they are at" and how functional movement can be used for all ages and abilities. She offers one on one coaching and group fitness classes for private and corporate wellness needs. Sara Green is a wellness enthusiast with a passion for inspiring and educating others on a myriad of health and wellness topics including fitness, nutrition, mindfulness, self-care and functional movement. Sara's work includes private client individual and group wellness programming, group fitness instruction, community engagement and education and corporate wellness. Ig: @Bewellandlivegood Email