Kelly and the Encouragers

Tara is making MASSIVE change in the world of infertility in North Dakota. She is striving to not only support families who are struggling with infertility but also change laws. The amount of progress that she has made in her efforts with Everlasting Hope made is insane!! “Tara works as a doctorate family nurse practitioner and fertility coach. After enduring a long road through infertility followed by a traumatic pregnancy, she turned her hurt into hope for others by forming the only infertility nonprofit in North Dakota and South Dakota. In 2019, Tara initiated grassroots efforts to mandate insurance coverage for infertility care and cancer preservation to the North Dakota State Legislation and again in 2021. Tara is passionate about supporting those diagnosed with infertility and empowering them to be their own advocates. She has combined her experience as a healthcare professional and personal struggle with infertility to help navigate infertility couples through their family building path.” Visit http://www.tarabrandner.com/ for more information!

I mean, who hasn't found them awake at 3 am in the morning wishing they could fall asleep? I know I have! Annie Schlecht has the ability to help adults AND children with sleep hygiene. After talking with her, I utilized some of her recommendations with our oldest son. It absolutely worked. As we all (hopefully) start to transition back to our new normalcy of life, our sleep patterns may need a transition too. Annie's episode will bless you with tips and encourage you to work towards better sleep habits. I can't wait to hear how this episode changes your sleep life!

Guess who's back? Back again? Kelly's back! Tell your friends! Anyone else singing? After almost an entire year, Kelly and the Encouragers is back!!! So much has changed. I'm sure how/what the podcast will look like from here on out. But, I have three AMAZING episodes that I recorded with FANTASTIC guests some time ago. I have headed to upload these a few different times during the pandemic, having a new baby, and dealing with kidney cancer. (More about all of that later!) The time never really felt right. But, today? TODAY IS THE DAY! On today's episode, my dearest friend Jessica Rhodes joined me. Jessica is one of those friends who I could not see for years but would still greet me with a huge smile and a hug. I absolutely adore both her and her husband Don so much. They are currently parenting six (yes, you read that right) children. AND, they are rocking it. Jessica has been so wonderful to share their story of foster care. She shares the ins and outs of navigating it, her wonderful perspective, and the hardest moments. I can feel that someone out there needs to hear this episode. I'm not sure who it is. But, I know they will find Jessica and Don's story at just the right moment.

I met Tracy on Instagram some time back. Since this time, I've enjoyed following her journey and getting to know her. Tracy had a challenging situation which lead her to remove herself from the role of helper to allow herself to receive help. She shared her journey of learning to embrace vulnerability and opening herself to hard conversations with those around her. Tracy did not hold back. We talked about ALL the things. I am so thankful for her and know that she will impact your life with this episode!

Our next presenter at our Evening of Encouragement was my dear friend, Brittany Schank. Brittany has been a friend of the podcast from the very beginning. You may remember hearing from her on Episode 8 and Episode 13. I would absolutely recommend that you go back to listen to those episodes as well. Brittany shared her message- Beauty Marks: A Journey of Encouragement and Bravery. She shares some of the hardest moments of life and how she has navigated through these. If there's one thing that I know about Brittany, it is that she will absolutely always find a way. Her strength and ability to manage through hard times is inspiring. I can't wait for you to hear from her!

This week's episode jumps right into hearing from one of our presenters at the Evening of Encouragement held in March 2020. Marnie shared her message- No, You're Not to Old to Go After a Dream or Clean Up Your Mess. Marnie is one of my favorite people. Her ability to share hard moments so vulnerably is beautiful. Her sweet husband even came to listen to her. The pure love and admiration he had on his face while listening was beautiful. I know you will love hearing from her!

Racism. We like to think that it doesn't exist anymore. I mean, it's 2020 right? Racism surely isn't continuing on, right? Wrong. Unfortunately, racism impacts so much of our daily lives that we often don't even acknowledge it. Anna reached out to share hard truths, her emotions, processing through such unfair and unjust situations. What I love about Anna's approach to life is her ability to hold both parts- This is hard and traumatic. AND, I can do something about it in my own community. Her ability to make change in her own community and desire to help others is admirable. If you want to learn more after this episode, go to Anna's website for recommendations of books that will help you explore the realities of racism -----> www.listenupandread.com

I saw Stacey speak at the RISE Conference by Rachel Hollis. Previous to this experience, I had listened her TEDTalk. She has an absolutely unforgettable presence on stage. Here's the thing about Stacey. She doesn't just own her power on stage. She owns her power throughout her entire life. Stacey finds meaning and hope in the hardest moments of life. She is so intentional about the choices that she makes of how she will show up to her own life. We can learn so much from Stacey. I can't wait for you to hear this episode!

How on earth do I summarize how my time with Tanya completely shifted my perspective and changed my life? I have NEVER met anyone in my life that I felt so aligned with in so many ways. I actually hung up and called a friend to share about the interview. I do have to say that Tanya is farther on the journey of living life unapologetically on purpose than I am. So, I loved hearing her perspective and being encouraged to continue on. You'll want to follow Tanya on allll of the socials because this lady is going places and changing lives!

What perfect timing! To be honest, I live in the middle of nowhere. There isn't even an option to have true internet here. I'm not kidding. This has made uploading the podcast and keeping socially distanced very problematic. Finally, I found a solution that worked! That tells me that you absolutely NEED to hear this episode. Are you at home with your kiddos? Are you finding it challenging to help them learn while managing your own work demands? Do you need hope through this time? Well, Alexa is your gal! She talks us through how to help our children in a way that encourages a child-centered educational approach. I can't wait for you to hear her simple solutions to increasing learning in your home!

Amanda is personally responsibly for helping make the Kelly and the Encouragers process more efficient and effective. When I first met with Amanda, it was fascinating to see how her mind works. She has this amazing ability to find the bumps or missing parts of your business AND life. It has been an honor to work with Amanda. And, I know her message is going to help you today!

I can't even being to describe my excitement over this episode. Matt Lewis has been a dear friend for over 18 years. While we haven't seen each other in some time and live in different states, we keep in touch. He always bring joy in life and laughter to my soul. Matt is a remarkable human who has endure loss, addiction, and challenges with mental health. More so, Matt is one hell of a fighter and someone who doesn't back down in the hard moments of life. I've said it so many times. But, I'm honored to know this human. I'm honored to call Matt a friend and I'm honored to introduce him to you. This won't be the last time that you hear from him. His story is going to change the world!

Anna is so real. I enjoyed our conversation so much and collected pieces of wisdom that she shared. She has a unique ability to give grace to herself and other through hard times. Anna's determination to complete Self-care September which remarkable. I am in awe of her ability to be vulnerable in hopes of helping others through hard seasons. Also, don't forget to look up her blog- listenupandread.com You don't want to miss out!!

I can't even begin to tell you how much I loved my conversation with Melissa! Her vulnerability and truth sharing made me feel connected with her quickly. I'm still cheering her on and checking out her outfits from afar. Plus, she's a Midwest gal so I felt like I was sitting down with one of my girlfriends from Illinois! She's the real deal. The perfect mix of fashion, truth, and encouragement. Also, don't forget to follow her on insta @onerealmomma!

Rachel is one of my favorite fellow podcasters. Her podcast, How to Like Your Husband is amazing! She shares authentically about her own experiences with her husband and provides tangible steps to help you through your own challenges. Want to improve your relationship? Rachel is your gal!

Happy New Year! In case you haven't heard everyone else and their brother talking about it, it's 2020. A whole new decade has started. Honestly, I don't get too wrapped up in the whole "new year" perspective. Every day is a new start! I was so thrilled when Brittany agreed to come back on to the podcast. She is one of the best time managers that I have ever met! I loved being able to hear her explain her process. This steps and perspectives will significantly change your life and set you up for success every day!

I LOVED being able to sit down with Nicole Blanco to chat about her life, passions, and her desire to make the world a better place. Do you want to help make the world better AND give a family member a beautiful gift? Then, you want to head over to Colorful Sanchez RIGHT NOW! Follow her on Instagram!

Stephanie so graciously agreed to join me on the podcast today. She shared the story of her son, Joey. His life has significantly impacted so many lives. It's a powerful reminder that our time on this earth doesn't determine our ability to make change. Joey was a change maker. That's evident through Stephanie's life and the impact that he continues to have in this world. Once you are a friend of the podcast, you are a friend for life. I am so honored to know Stephanie and to introduce you to the newest, Encourager. Prepare your heart because Stephanie is about to change it!

This conversation!! It's hard to even put into words how profoundly impacted I am by Becky's story and heart. Her ability to truly take control of her life and win every single day is admirable. I know that you will love hearing from her and seeing her heart! Don't forget to hop on over to Win the Day Pro for more information too!

You know when you hit road blocks and wonder why something isn't working? That's what happened with this episode. Technology decided to completely STOP working. Here's what I know about road blocks along my way. They are a good indication that I am going the right way! That's how I felt about this episode. Technology issues or not- I was going to get this episode released into the world. That's because Nicole McNelis joined me on the show today. Nicole was an absolute gem! I enjoyed learning more about her passion in supporting women through her therapy practice. Here's the thing about Nicole. She doesn't just say that she wants to support women. She is absolutely doing so and changing lives along the way! I am so thankful for our conversation and know that you are going to LOVE Nicole! www.facebook.com/nicolemcnelistherapy/

Mandy and I spent over two hours together. She is an absolute joy! I loved being able to hear about her desire to impact others and her ability to maintain such strength in the face of a life threatening illness. Mandy is an Encourager by heart, too! I know you will love our conversation! To hear the second part of our conversation, pop over to the She Who Overcomes podcast. It's one of my most recommended podcasts.

Ryan and Mariah are my new favorite couple. Their desire to be parents and their vulnerability surrounding their journey is admirable. Even as a Social Worker, they taught me so much about the language surrounding Adoptions. Their ability to honor birth parents and acknowledge the strength it takes to make an adoptive plan is amazing. I know so much healing will come from this episode. A huge thank you to Ryan and Mariah!! My life is better for having met you.

I'm so excited to introduce you to Dr. Cain! I actually met her at a local fertility clinic. You will hear the story of why I ended up at a fertility clinic and learn from Dr. Cain. She is so knowledgeable about women's health and fertility. If you are struggling with your own fertility battle, please know that you are not alone. #solidarity

I loved sitting down with Kristina. She is a dream chaser and a goal getter! I am so thankful that our paths crossed. Kristina took charge of her life and changed careers. She is someone who won't be tied down by society's expectations. And, I love her for that!

I LOVED my conversation with Jamie! We both have the "gift for gab" as she calls it. I could have talked to her for days. I love her desire to simplify business finances and educate business owners about efficient ways to operate. She makes it so easy. Jamie has a heart of gold and is changing so many lives!

Caryn Rich joins me on the podcast to share her hard truths about her fertility journey and her desire to help others as a fertility journey coach. You can hear her passion throughout the interview. If you haven't been through fertility struggles, you likely know someone who is currently going through these issues. You are not alone. Join us for solidarity and encouragement through your journey!

I’ve known Dr. Bleem for over eight years. He was my chiropractor when I lived in Illinois. Not only is he fantastic at his chiropractic work but he spreads happiness and healing to all those he encounters. Join us for an honest conversation surrounding his work and his later in life diagnosis of Dyslexia. Dr. Bleem is an amazing advocate who shares his hard truths and encourages others along the way! Please remember to subscribe and give us a rating. That helps us know what you enjoy and gives us feedback on how to improve the podcast. Thanks so much! www.bleemchiropractic.com https://m.facebook.com/bleemchiropractic/ ***Please note that this podcast is not intended to be therapy or to replace therapy. However, we hope that you will find this podcast to be beneficial!***

When I first met Lindsey, I knew I had to get her on the podcast. One of my goals is to be the most encouraging person that I know. I want to clear- this is NOT a competition! It’s just a standard that helps me make sure my goal is at the forefront of my mind. Here’s the deal. Legitimately, Lindsey is the most encouraging person that I know. Even more than that, she shows love in every interaction with others. I can’t wait for you to hear her heart and mission of serving others by operating I WILL Fitness and Training! You will absolutely love her! www.iwillfitness.com www.instagram.com/iwillfitnessandtraining Please remember to subscribe and give us a rating. That helps us know what you enjoy and gives us feedback on how to improve the podcast. Thanks so much! ***Please note that this podcast is not intended to be therapy or to replace therapy. However, we hope that you will find this podcast to be beneficial!***

Felicity joins the podcast today to share her knowledge of the writing process, creativity, and how to find your passions. Life is amazing when you can find a way to get paid to work your DREAM job! She even read a small part of her book. I cannot wait to read her book with my son! Also, I may have found someone who loves tea as much as I do. That’s never happened! http://www.thefelicityfoxhouse.com/ www.instagram.com/felicity_fox9 Please remember to subscribe and give us a rating. That helps us know what you enjoy and gives us feedback on how to improve the podcast. Thanks so much! ***Please note that this podcast is not intended to be therapy or to replace therapy. However, we hope that you will find this podcast to be beneficial!***

Listen to our very FIRST live recorded episode of Kelly and the Encouragers podcast! Melissa returns to the podcast to discuss how to own your worth as a woman and how to build healthy relationships with other women. We provider you with tangible steps to building those relationship so listen closely! You won’t want to miss it! http://swsecrets.net/ www.instagram.com/melwill23 Please remember to subscribe and give us a rating. That helps us know what you enjoy and gives us feedback on how to improve the podcast. Thanks so much! ***Please note that this podcast is not intended to be therapy or to replace therapy. However, we hope that you will find this podcast to be beneficial!***

I could have talked with Angela for hours! I love her mission and her heart to help women embrace their worth, live boldly, and acknowledge strengths that they bring to the table. You can tell that she is absolutely living her life’s work and making massive changes in this world. Woman on Top: Lead Like a Lady Boss can be purchased on Amazon, Barnes and Nobles, or your favorite place to purchase books! It is linked to Amazon on www.heronetribe.com www.facebook.com/HERonetribe www.heronetribe.com ***Please note that this podcast is not intended to be therapy or to replace therapy. However, we hope that you will find this podcast to be beneficial!***

Ashley seriously blew me away with her interview! There was one point that I was speechless! That doesn’t happen often. Her ability to hold space for families who have lost loved ones mixed with her creative abilities is creating so much healing in the world! I’m so thankful she took time to share her journey. Links- www.remadetoremember.com www.facebook.com/remadetoremember www.instagram.com/remadetoremember

Becky joins the podcast today to share her wisdom surrounding an important but often overlooked issue- increased mental health difficulties in the farming and ranching communities. It’s so easy to forget how impactful the farming community is in all of our lives. Learn the importance. Start hard conversations and encourage your local farmer today. It might make a world of difference! https://www.lssnd.org/aboundcounseling Please remember to subscribe and give us a rating. That helps us know what you enjoy and gives us feedback on how to improve the podcast. Thanks so much! ***Please note that this podcast is not intended to be therapy or to replace therapy. However, we hope that you will find this podcast to be beneficial!***

Mary is the owner of Voxxy clothing store and co-own of SHE. Mary is one of my ABSOLUTE favorite ladies. She is actually one of the first people that I wanted to interview on the podcast. Mary has a servant heart and a desire to encourage women to own their worth and allow themselves to be seen! She has literally changed my perspective in how I show up in my own life. You don’t want to miss this episode! https://shopvoxxy.com www.facebook.com/shopvoxxy www.instagram.com/shopvoxxy Please remember to subscribe and give us a rating. That helps us know what you enjoy and gives us feedback on how to improve the podcast. Thanks so much! ***Please note that this podcast is not intended to be therapy or to replace therapy. However, we hope that you will find this podcast to be beneficial!***

Part II of our conversation with Tara Vossenkemper!!! She is wise, kind, and hilarious! She talks us through how to navigate hard conversations while advocating for yourself and living your own truth! There’s so much wisdom in her knowledge. I know you will love this conversation! Please remember to subscribe and give us a rating. That helps us know what you enjoy and gives us feedback on how to improve the podcast. Thanks so much! ***Please note that this podcast is not intended to be therapy or to replace therapy. However, we hope that you will find this podcast to be beneficial!***

I’m so thrilled to introduce you to Tara! She is wise, kind, and hilarious! She talks us through how to navigate hard conversations while advocating for yourself and living your own truth! There’s so much wisdom in her knowledge. I know you will love this conversation! Come back next week for part two!

You know that question that I ask at the end of every podcast? It’s based on Brene Brown’s book- Braving the Wilderness. We’re going to talk about what I’ve learned by asking this question and how you ACTUALLY step into the Wilderness.

Kristen from Sorella Wellness sits down with me to discuss how she became so passionate about owning her truths, finding empowerment while learning about her own body, and her desire to keep supporting other women through this process. You’ll want to stay tuned the entire episode so you can find out about her other company that she co-owns called SHE. It’s so fun that you’ll want to hear all about it! www.facebook.com/besorellawellness www.instagram.com/kristincariveau www.kristincariveau.com ***Please note that this podcast is not intended to be therapy or to replace therapy. However, we hope that you will find this podcast to be beneficial!***

This episode is for you. This is for the mom that worries that she isn’t doing enough. This is for the mom that worries that she is a bad mom. This is for the mom that doubts herself daily. This is for that same mom who is actually a complete bad-ass and who can learn own her worth. YOU are an amazing mom!

Marissa reached out to me to ask if she could interview me about my desire to own a business and reach for my big dreams. I knew that I needed to have her on the podcast to share her passion. It’s so darn good! Her moto is therapy for your business. She is a firm believer that you can show up for your clients and show up for your business at the same time. www.marissalawton.com https://www.facebook.com/groups/empathyrisingcommunity/ https://www.instagram.com/risslawton/

I saw a post shared by parenting advocate, Kristina Kuzmic about Michelle Bowen reaching out to share her amazing story. I’ve been saying for years that you never know how you might impact someone’s life. I’m so excited for Michelle to share her story with you! www.lmichellebowen.com https://www.facebook.com/MBowenAuthor/

Join me as I sit down with Kristi to discuss body image and her personal journey. She’s dropping some truth bombs! AND, she’s offering an amazing opportunity just for you!! Listen until the end for the details and code!! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ironfoxclothing/ Website: https://www.ironfoxclothing.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ironfoxclothing/

Do you want to know how to actually become an Encourager? This one is for you! I have been working on a training and wanted to share some of it with you today.

Today, we are playing meet your host! Brittany Schank will be interviewing me about ALL THE THINGS. I can now understand why guests feel nervous before their podcast episode! www.instagram.com/brittanyschank www.facebook.com/solacecounselingFM

Get ready! I got amped up during this episode. Women’s healthcare is...LACKING! Join me for a look at the barriers that prevent women from treating health concerns.

You know those moments in life that cause you to take a step back and slow down? Yep, I had one of those. Listen in for a real look at how it feels to cope with one of those hard moments!

Today’s show has been lovingly hijacked by yours truly, Emily Jones! Today I’m going to walk you through my journey and observations as someone who struggles with Scarcity Mentality. We’ll talk about what it looks like, my personal theory on how it can develop, and ways to combat this twisted thinking. I hope this information sheds some light on some ways that you or someone you love may think and provides a little encouragement along the way.

Many people would say that they aren’t creative. I don’t believe that! We all have a creative side. I talk you through my own creative journey including truths that no one would ever want to admit. www.kellysisson.com

I am so excited to have Dani on the show today. Dani is one of the most artistically talented people I know. She is my older cousin who I followed relentlessly when I was young. She is not only funny but has a wonderful perspective on life. We discuss specific types of art as well as creativity. I have loved learning more about honoring creativity and allowing yourself freedom to work on what feels right. Instagram: www.instagram.com/danielleandcopaints Etsy: www.etsy.com/shop/DanielleandCoDesigns Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/danielleandcodesign

Katharine shares her journey through sobriety and recovery while finding her creativity along the way. She is able to find beauty in the hard moments of her journey. She shares her learning process through different types of art and has an amazing YouTube channel. Katharine is impacting and improving lives daily. I’m honored to have her on the show. YouTube: www.youtube.com/c/dryerdaysartstudio Instagram: https://www.facebook.com/groups/794213120911490/

Today, I had planned to give you a reflection of my thoughts on these past few episodes. I am still in awe at the bravery and vulnerability of the last three guest. Inspired by their bravery, I decided to share my own birth story and difficulty postpartum. While it is only a snapshot of my journey, I am hopeful that it will help you to know that there is solidarity. I also shared my review of the Rachel Hollis event and a few helpful books/podcasts that changed my life.