In The Know with KO

In this special episode of IN THE KNOW WITH KO, Kristen sits down with longtime friend and powerhouse coach John Garrish, one of the most influential figures in youth athletic development today. Named the 2021 National High School Strength Coach of the Year, Garrish is known not only for his elite-level training in speed, strength, and performance—but also for the heart and purpose behind it all.As Founder of the South Florida Prep Home Education Program and creator of the Garrish Family Foundation, he's made it his mission to pour into the next generation of athletes—honoring the memory of his late sister along the way with FREE Speed School on Sundays. Coach Garrish shares what it means to train with intention, how he connects with student-athletes on a deeper level, and why real impact goes far beyond wins and stats.This episode is a masterclass in passion, purpose, and performance from one of the best in the game.

Today, Melissa is a shining light for others, serving as a National Outreach Liaison for FHE Health. Through her work, she's helping others find hope, healing, and a way out. We talk candidly about the raw realities of addiction, the importance of mental health support, and the strength it takes to rebuild a life from the ashes.Melissa also educates us on Narcan — the life-saving overdose reversal medication — and breaks down the stigma and fear surrounding its use. Whether you're battling addiction, loving someone who is, or just want to understand more, this conversation is packed with compassion, truth, and the power of second chances.This is more than a story of recovery — it's getting IN THE KNOW about the power of redemption, resilience, and purpose.

She's back! My dear friend Eleana returns to IN THE KNOW WITH KO — and this time, with baby number two in her arms (well, sort of... she was in the final stretch of pregnancy during our convo, and now her baby girl is 4 months old!). We dive into what it looks like to prepare for a holistic birth experience, how to reach peak emotional and physical health, and the beautiful (and sometimes wild) ride of choosing your own path when it comes to labor and delivery.We chat about how we first met in such a fun, full-circle way — renting her and her husband's house — and how that led to both friendship and launching businesses side by side. From mommy moments to mindset shifts, we talk about being more equipped this time around, leaning on our community of mom friends, knowing when to ask for help (and actually accept it), and truly surrendering to the journey of pregnancy.This episode is full of heart, laughter, and some real talk about tuning into your body, honoring your spirit, and embracing the fact that there is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to childbirth. Whether it's your first baby or your fourth, we hope this encourages you to do what's best for YOU and YOUR family — and appreciate the magic of a supportive partner along the way.

We'll explore the daily practices that help reframe negative thoughts, from mindful journaling (even in a digital world) to building your own happiness toolkit. Plus, how nourishing your body with clean food, movement, and nontoxic choices ties into the bigger picture of a healthy, joyful life.You'll hear why optimism matters, how to set boundaries without guilt, and why the comparing game is a trap. Because when you let go of fear and lean into gratitude, something powerful happens: you come alive.

In this episode of In The Know With KO, Kristen sits down with her longtime friend Allyson, also known as Miss Inspiration, to talk about the power of clean eating and making healthier choices in the kitchen. As a personal chef and wellness coach, Allyson helps clients transform their lifestyles by educating them on ingredient awareness, healthy brand swaps, and how to make cooking at home enjoyable and stress-free. Through her business, Thrive as You Age, she empowers people to clean out their pantries, replace harmful products with better options, and take control of their health—without feeling overwhelmed. Get ready to GET IN THE KNOW about the grocery store, practical tips for upgrading your meals, and the motivation to start thriving at any age!

In this episode of IN THE KNOW WITH KO, host Kristen Adams (KO) welcomes her longtime friend, the extraordinary Mee-Ladie Delgado. Once crowned Ms. United States, Mee-Ladie made the bold decision to trade in her sash for a career in National Security, dedicating herself to protecting our country at the highest level. From mentoring young girls to excelling as an engineer and entrepreneur, she has always been driven by purpose. KO and Mee-Ladie reminisce about their years of friendship, share untold stories, and dive into the grit, determination, and intense training it takes to serve. Don't miss this inspiring conversation about resilience, sacrifice, and answering the call to something greater.

Life doesn't always go as planned, and some of the hardest roads lead to the most beautiful destinations. Whether you're navigating fertility struggles, the highs and lows of pregnancy and postpartum, adjusting to divorce or infidelity, or managing the changes that come with menopause or midlife, finding the right support is everything.This week on In The Know With KO, we're diving into the emotional, mental, and practical side of women's health with Dr. Lea Anne DeRigne and Amanda Maggiore—two incredible women who have joined forces to open a boutique mental health practice designed just for us. Their mission? To create a safe space where women can find wellness, healing, and balance at every stage of life.We're talking about:

In this episode of IN THE KNOW WITH KO, host Kristen Adams (aka KO) sits down with the incredible Lisa Day, a massage therapist with nearly 20 years of experience specializing in sports massage, lymphatic drainage, and prenatal massage. Lisa's passion for helping clients heal and thrive is evident in her approach—massage is not just a luxury, but an essential component of mental, emotional, and physical well-being.Topics Covered:• Lisa's Journey: Beginning her career in chiropractic and physical therapy settings, Lisa learned how to aid in client rehabilitation, gaining a deep understanding of the muscular system.• Massage as a Necessity: How massage therapy relieves pain, improves circulation, and supports overall health.• Specialties & Expertise: Lisa holds certifications in neuromuscular therapy, sports therapy, prenatal massage, and lymphatic drainage, offering a comprehensive approach to healing.• Educating Clients: The importance of knowing what to eat (and what to avoid), as well as being mindful of the products used on the body.• Healthy Living Tips: Small changes that lead to significant improvements in overall health.• Divorce & Parenting: Lisa's insights on navigating divorce healthily while prioritizing children's well-being.• Community & Support: The goodness in lifting each other up and fostering a supportive environment.Join KO and Lisa for a powerful and enlightening conversation between lifelong friends about self-care, health, and making mindful choices that lead to a better life.

PTSD and depression can feel like an unbreakable cycle, but healing is possible and YOU ARE NOT ALONE! In this episode of IN THE KNOW WITH KO, we dive into powerful, science-backed strategies for overcoming trauma and reclaiming joy. We'll explore EMDR therapy—how it rewires the brain for healing—and holistic approaches like nutrition, movement, mindfulness, and nervous system regulation. Whether you're struggling yourself or supporting a loved one, this episode offers real hope and actionable tactics for finding light after the darkness. Tune in and take the first step toward true healing.

Success doesn't have an age limit—especially in the beauty industry! In this episode of IN THE KNOW WITH KO, we're diving into the world of beauty school, boss moves, and building success at a young age. From the hustle of mastering skills to the challenges of entrepreneurship, we're sharing stories of resilience, inspiration, and the powerful women who lift each other up along the way.But let's be real—success isn't just about career wins. It's also about surviving the messy parts of life, like bad roommates who lose their minds over underwear hangers, learning the value of true friendship, and navigating the tough journey of leaving abusive relationships behind. We'll talk about finding peace after chaos, the strength it takes to rebuild, and the unexpected things—like a deep love for sea turtles—that bring healing along the way.Join KO and special guest Eva G for an episode full of real talk, laughter, and inspiration as we celebrate the survivors, the thrivers, and the women who refuse to be anything less than unstoppable.

In this episode, GET IN THE KNOW and hear how at 40, Dr. Sally Giordano made a bold move—she went back to school to become a chiropractor, proving that it's never too late to chase your passion. In this episode, KO dives into Dr. Sally's inspiring journey, from student to doctor, and how she found her calling in wellness and holistic medicine. Dr. Sally shares how she helps patients heal by focusing on the whole body—mind, body, and spirit—while emphasizing the power of self-love in the healing process. If you've ever felt stuck or wondered if it's too late to start over, this episode will remind you that transformation is always possible. Tune in for an uplifting conversation filled with wisdom, resilience, and a fresh perspective on health!

In this episode of In the Know with KO, host Kristen Adams (KO) sits down with Dr. Marnee Firestone, a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in the bio-psycho-social approach to anxiety. Dr. Marnee shares practical strategies to help teens build confidence and create a more harmonious home environment.KO raises the questions every parent wrestles with and wants to be IN THE KNOW ABOUT—Are we doing enough? Are we doing it right? How can we truly connect with our teens? Dr. Marnee shifts the focus from red flags to green ones, emphasizing the importance of "mattering"—showing up in your child's world, even when it's not your thing. She explains why parents need to stop taking things personally, avoid shaming their kids, and instead create an environment where teens feel seen and supported. Because when we show up for our kids, they show up in their own lives.Don't miss this insightful conversation! Learn more about Dr. Marnee's work at breakanxietycycle.com.

In this laugh-out-loud episode, we're joined by a mom, dad, and their hilarious 9-year-old son as they share their family's approach to life, love, and plenty of laughter. From mullets and fart jokes to the importance of being present for every big (and small) moment, this family knows how to keep things fun and meaningful.

In this episode, Kristen (aka KO) dives into what it takes to create a happy and fulfilling marriage built on love, respect, and shared purpose...EVEN WHEN YOUR HUSBAND FORGETS YOUR ANNIVERSARY!  From keeping the spark alive and letting go of baggage from past relationships to staying aligned while raising kids, she covers it all. She'll unpack the importance of communication, why marriage is about giving 100% (not just meeting halfway), and how to maintain respect even during disagreements. Plus, she discusses why comparing your relationship to others is a no-go and why it's crucial to take advice only from those living the life you aspire to. Tune in to GET IN THE KNOW  for tips, laughs, and real talk about building a partnership that thrives!

In this episode, get IN THE KNOW WITH KO and meet two Italian Brooklyn girls, Kristen and Jayme, who formed an unbreakable bond when one hired the other at a local hotel. Over the years, their friendship has flourished from late-night hotel stories to the cozy chaos of being wives and moms. These ladies are all about family, tradition, and of course, getting the pronunciation of Italian classics like mozzarella and calamari just right. They share laughs thinking back to many years of good times in the hotel biz, despite the hard work and sacrifices to succeed. Jayme and Kristen both share their love of momming the boys watching their favorite football teams. Tune in for hilarious anecdotes, heartfelt moments, and a celebration of their 20-year journey of friendship, laughter, and love for all things Italian.

In this episode, Kristen Adams (aka KO) brings us IN THE KNOW about the art of balancing work and marriage, especially when navigating the shift from corporate life to running her own businesses. Kristen emphasizes the significance of time management and being organized both at home and work. She explores why prioritizing time with your spouse—like planning date nights or squeezing in "day dates" while the kids are at school—can strengthen your relationship amidst the demands of entrepreneurship. She is passionate about helping listeners learn the value of open communication, setting shared goals and dreams, and recognizing when to say "no" to avoid burnout.She also discusses the essential role of mentors, the weight of financial responsibility, and how to make tough decisions without burning bridges. Whether you're considering making the leap into business ownership or are in the thick of it, this episode offers practical advice for keeping your marriage strong while pursuing your entrepreneurial dreams.

In this episode, Kristen Adams (aka KO) explores the transformative journey from her teenage years through her 20s, 30s, and into her 40s. She discusses the importance of learning to let things go and the power of avoiding conflict and negativity to achieve a healthier balance in both personal and professional life. Why do we pressure young people to decide what they want to be when they grow up? She challenges this question and unpacks how life's most painful experiences can be turned into gifts that not only heal ourselves but help support others.She shares her personal story of how working in the hotel industry helped reinvent herself—from being a high school dropout without a college degree to becoming a respected businesswoman. She also touches on how she broke free from the infamous Italian mom guilt trip and why maintaining relationships and avoiding burning bridges is vital. Join her as she brings us IN THE KNOW about the journey of learning as you go, continuing to grow, and mastering the art of letting that shit go!

In today's episode, Kristen is joined by her incredible stepdaughter bringing you IN THE KNOW with a heartfelt and humorous conversation that celebrates the unique connection they've created in their blended family. They'll be sharing how they've built trust and laughter into their relationship and why being a stepmom and stepdaughter duo comes with its own special magic.They jump into the day-to-day dynamics of their blended family—full of quirky traditions, silly inside jokes, and a whole lot of love. Life in their house might look different, but the bonds they've created are just as strong and rewarding. They also look at middle school from both sides: her stepdaughters experiences with the challenges of friendships, homework, and self-discovery, and Kristen's perspective on how best to support her. Together, they share insights on what makes a good friend, how to spot those who truly have your back, and the power of surrounding yourself with positive influences.In this episode, you'll hear about the perks of a blended family, the lessons they've learned in embracing each other's differences, and the laughter that keeps them grounded. Whether you're part of a blended family or just curious about how families find strength in all shapes and sizes, join them to get IN THE KNOW for a chat full of love, laughs, and reflections on surviving middle school and dual households with a smile.

In this special episode, I sit down with my 9-year-old son, the youngest of three, as we explore his love for basketball, his heroes and what he's learning both on the court and at home. We talk about the lessons he's picked up from dad—everything from the importance of showing respect and building trust to making healthy choices and the benefits of hard work. We also dive into what makes someone a good friend and the value of helping others, both in sports and life. It's a heartwarming conversation about growing up, learning through experience, and the connections that shape us. Tune in for some insightful, kid-friendly wisdom and GET IN THE KNOW WITH KO and my kiddo!

In this episode, get IN THE KNOW WITH KO to explore the profound power of vulnerability and how embracing it can elevate your personal and professional relationships. Many of us fear being vulnerable because it leaves us exposed to judgment, rejection, or conflict. Yet, when we allow ourselves to be open and authentic, we invite deeper trust and connection into our lives. Vulnerability isn't a weakness; it's an act of courage—one that requires immense strength to share our true selves despite the fear of what might happen next.We'll dive into the discomfort that often comes with being vulnerable, from the fear of losing relationships to the anxiety of facing difficult confrontations. However, the rewards are immense: increased self-awareness, emotional resilience, and the ability to attract people who resonate with your true essence. Vulnerability filters out shallow relationships and nurtures genuine connections.By embracing this courageous act, we cultivate not only stronger, more meaningful relationships but also a deeper understanding of ourselves. Vulnerability is a powerful force that paves the way for authenticity, trust, and alignment with the people who are meant to be in our lives. Tune in as KO unpacks why letting down your guard isn't just about opening up to others—it's about opening up to yourself.

In this episode, Kristen Adams (aka KO) opens up about getting into the unique challenges of raising teens in a blended family. She talks about the power of showing up—whether through volunteering, being present, or offering guidance—and why it's crucial to start early. You don't always need to win the popular vote as a parent, but you do need to remain consistent. She explores why your teens need you to be a parent, not a friend, and how setting boundaries helps them flourish. You'll learn how to ask the right questions, why checking their phones and devices is an essential part of parenting in the digital age, and how to choose your battles wisely. Plus, she discusses the value of mom friends for support and insight during this sometimes overwhelming journey. Tune in for practical strategies that help you GET IN THE KNOW to stay connected, set limits, and raise resilient teens.

In this episode, Kristen Adams (aka KO) brings you IN THE KNOW about the crucial role of having a medical advocate by your side. We often place immense trust in doctors and medical professionals, but it's essential to remember that we hold the right to make decisions about our own health and the health of our loved ones. Asking questions, seeking clarity, and making informed choices should never be intimidating.Insurance companies should not dictate what's best for you, and hospitals shouldn't feel like the scariest place on earth. Learn how to empower yourself, when to step in for a loved one, and what steps to take if you're unable to advocate for yourself. Whether it's for routine check-ups or critical care, having someone in your corner can make all the difference in navigating the complex world of healthcare.Tune in to discover how to take control of your health journey and ensure the best outcomes for you and your loved ones!

In this episode Kristen Adams (aka KO), brings us In The Know about the transformative effects of clean eating and how it shapes both physical and mental well-being. We explore the profound impact of nutrition on energy levels, mood, and overall health, emphasizing the importance of finding a community that supports your journey. From balancing life's demands to making mindful choices, we discuss how empowering not just ourselves but also our children can lead to healthier futures. Join us as we introduce "Garden Butcher" for accessible healthy food and the "Good Energy Club," a movement focused on fostering positive habits and creating an uplifting, supportive tribe.

In this eye-opening episode, Kristen Adams (aka KO) dives deep into the health crisis gripping America and explores its intricate links to food, trauma, and lifestyle choices. Her returning guest, Kellie Kuecha Moitt, is a Naturopathic Coach. They shed light on how the FDA's regulatory shifts have inadvertently steered Americans towards unhealthy habits. Discover the vital role of functional medicine and why traditional checks are not enough. They discuss the importance of comprehensive evaluations, including hormone levels and stool analysis. They also address the often-overlooked issue of breast implant illness and why seeking a functional medicine approach could be transformative for your health. Join them for a thought-provoking conversation and practical insights and GET IN THE KNOW about achieving better health through informed choices and holistic remedies.

Are you ready to get out of your own way and reach your goals? Drawing on her experience as a mentor, leader, and dedicated mom, Kristen (aka KO) shares practical tips, motivational stories, and powerful insights from her own life and the people who inspire her, like the legendary Michael Jordan and influential authors like Rachel Hollis and John Maxwell. Whether you're navigating the corporate world, managing a household, or chasing your dreams, this episode offers the tools, mindset, and encouragement you need to keep moving forward, one goal at a time. Tune in, get inspired, and let's get to work!

Kristen Adams (aka KO) and her son Dylan dive into a heartfelt conversation as they reflect on the unique perks of having divorced parents. They chat about their experiences with sports, generational differences, and the shift from Dylan being an only child to embracing a blended family with stepparents and younger siblings. Kristen shares the challenges she faced as a single mom, while Dylan expresses appreciation for the extended support system and the bonus of multiple holiday celebrations. They highlight the importance of keeping things lighthearted, sticking to their number one rule: if it's funny, you're not in trouble. This approach has helped both households navigate diverse situations. Kristen's continued friendship with her ex-husband has been a key element in fostering a positive environment, contributing to Dylan's happy and healthy upbringing and his development into a remarkable young man.

Kristen Adams aka KO breaks down the basics of back to school tools for success. Each one of us, whether you have 1 kiddo or 5, will face the daily challenge of juggling schedules, homework, sports and everything in between. Kristen shares lots of helpful ways to avoid chaos while setting realistic expectations. Creating healthy habits with consistency, checklists, accountability and rewards is an awesome way to get back to school and back on track!

You will NOT want to miss this episode! Kristen Adams (aka KO) dives into her own painful journey as a survivor of domestic abuse and even being kidnapped away from her family. It has taken her over 30 years to share her story due to her own fears. KO's empathy is powerful, and she is living proof that confronting your past trauma and distress can help take away vulnerability and foster healthy relationships. The healing process is NOT easy and being paralyzed in fear is a tremendous burden to carry. It affected all of her other relationships, but she shares how she was able to reignite unconditional love and find true happiness by forgiving others. Losing your innocence and getting caught up in a manipulative, toxic, controlling relationship of any kind will take a toll. KO knows firsthand and is an inspiration to women of all ages.

Kristen Adams (aka KO) sits down with the one and only Paige Kornblue who is known for her media expertise, journalism and reporting with ESPN Events. Paige and Kristen have lots of similar stories to share about losing both parents and walking through grief, divorce and coparenting. They offer encouragement as they help listeners get IN THE KNOW about the importance of knowing not only WHEN to reach out for support but WHO to reach out to! They laugh through the obstacles they have overcome and even offer healthy, fun remedies to managing all the emotions while keeping realistic expectations. Keeping the hits above the belt is not always easy, but it is possible when you have the right players on the team!

Kristen Adams (aka KO) sits down solo to share from the heart about how she navigated life's toughest obstacle...death! Losing both of her parents only three years apart, and then her grandmother, becoming an only child adult orphan has fueled her desire to normalize one of the most difficult and complicated topics that NO ONE wants to talk about, yet NO ONE is escaping! Kristen opens up about her journey in funeral and estate planning while sharing personal experiences in dealing with grief and overcoming PTSD and depression. Death is a tough subject, but she finds a way to get the conversation rolling and let her listeners feel IN THE KNOW about making these choices.

Kristen Adams (aka KO) talks with Eleana Palomino about how they went from landlord/tenant to friends and now business partners. Sharing similar journeys, they dive into being children in divorced households and now having blended families of their own. They openly share the heartache that ultimately led them both to finding the greatest joy while uncovering new normals and the importance of sharing life with those who "get it".

Description: Join me, Kristen Adams (aka KO) as I talk with Kellie Kuecha Moitt about the ins and outs, ups and downs of being a powerful, successful woman in business while juggling real life. We share laughs and sentiments about rising and falling and the importance of having a top-notch girl gang to support you as we navigate different chapters of life.  

 A sneak peek at what's ahead with KO!