Real Women's Work Podcast

What if dieting actually makes you gain weight? Not because you lack discipline or self control but because it's the basic mechanics of your body?  What if you could eating anything you wanted -literally anything- and enjoy it guilt free?  What if you never, ever had to think about calories or carbs or had to check your watch to see if it was a time of day when you are "alowed" to eat? What if you could stop obsessing about food? Whether it's ogling the ice cream instead of eating it, berating yourself for bingeing on cookies, or promising yourself that tomorrow you will go the whole 16 hours without eating, what if you never, ever had to think about those things again? What if food were just a normal part of your life? Just like driving to get the kids, reading a book, or watching your favorite show? Do you believe that's possible? It is. Would you like to know how? First, we have to understand Diet Culture. You might think it sounds like a goofy philosophy that doesn't apply to you but I promise it does. How do I know? It permeates every part of our culture. It tells us we are only worthy if our bodies are a certain size and if we look a certain size. It keeps us focused on what we look like instead of moving forward. It causes us to miss out on important medical care. It makes us believe that if we eat certain things -or at certain times- our bodies will look a certain way and our health will improve. This is a lie. It's not a miscommuncation. it's not a misunderstanding. It is a lie. And the more of us who understand it, the less Diet Culture is able to keep us down.  If you've ever tried Noom, Atkins, WW, Intermittent Fasting, or any other "program" the promises a particular body shape by restricting food this eipisode is for you.  If you've ever refused to by the size clothes that fit you because you are ashamed, this episode is for you. If you've ever skipped going to the doctor because you know they are going to prescribe weight loss, this episode is for you. If you have ever gone to the gym to burn off the dessert you had last night, this episode is for you. Give it a chance. I know it's hard to believe.  But if you open yourself up to understanding, your whole life might change. And it's all thank to people like Debbie Lesko who puts on her cape of bravery every single day to spread this message and empower women in droves. Debbie has found recovery from over sixty years with an eating disorder. Now she devotes much of her life to educating others about Diet Culture so they can find joy, happiness and freedom. You can find Debbies Facebook page, Diets Don't Work, by clicking here.  You can access the book Debbie references, by clicking here.   

Is there a little voice that nags at you? Does it grab at your shoulder and pull at your sweater and say "come here! come here! Look! This is the thing you want to try! This is the thing you want to do!" Do you want to listen to it? To go where it leads you and jump all in to try the thing that seems to exciting- the thing that feels like it's meant for you to do? Every once in a while do you think you really can do it only to snap out of the "daydream" and realize the life you are dreaming of is only meant for special people?  What if the thing that is stopping you is a lack of confidence?  What if there were a way to build it?  Can I Build My Confidence? Acquiring confidence is harder than it seems- if it weren't, more of us would be doing the things we long to do. Maybe it's training for a marathon, going back for a degree, starting a bakery, or submitting that piece for publication- whatever it is, something stops us from pursuing it. We may tell ourselves it's laziness or that we just don't have what it takes to live the life we want. We might find it easier to stay small and quiet and keep doing the things that do not draw attention to ourselves.  But still... every now and then... that little nagging voice reminds us of what we really want- and for just a brief moment we believe it's possible. We can see the life we desire so clearly it feels like we already have it. But the moment passes and we get back to the business of living the lives we are "supposed" to live.  We might become depressed, lethargic, or acquiesce ourselves to the lives we seemed doomed to. A life full of humdrum, boredom, and living it in a way that utilizes none of our skills or talents.  If only there were a way to find the confidence to take action toward the life we want... Good News! Confidence can be Acquired! Confidence is not something we are either born with or without- it is something we can acquire at any point in our life. Developing our confidence is an actionable practice! But most of us have no idea where to start. This is where Anna Marcolis, Psychotherapist and Confidence Coach comes in.  From taking action regardless of feelings to building our comptence to create our confidence, in this episode, Anna shares real and proven ways of developing our confidence so we can create the life we want.  If you long to have a life that is fuller, richer, and utiilzes your unique gifts, listen in as Anna and I have an honest and candid conversation about confidence.  You can Find Anna Marcolin Here: On her website On Instagram      

Have you ever wondered who writes the articles in your favorite magazines? How do they know what to say? What makes you read it? Where do they find the courage to be vulnerable and how do they know where to draw the line? Are you yourself a writer (maybe even secretly)? Do you want writing be your work? Do you wonder how to effectively pitch a publication, how to submit, and how to get your writing noticed?  If any of these strike a chord you do not want to miss today's episode! Estelle Erasmus found herself fired from her first job. Want to guess why? She was caught reading at the library (true story!). This was the beginning of what would turn into her life's work; surrounding herself with words and stories, turning them into music on a page, getting paid for it, and helping others learn how to do the same. It's not all business, though. Estelle also shares personal and professional experiences -such as becoming a mother during midlife and guesting on the soap opera Guiding Light- as they relate to her life and career.  In her recent release "Writing that Gets Noticed", Estelle gives us access to the information she shares with her students at Writers Digest and New York University School of Professional Studies. She explains both the business and craft of writing. From what makes a pitch effective and how to tighten up our work to explaining the different genres of essays, Estelle reveals a path flooded with light and support for those of us who have always dreamed of getting our writing noticed.  Where to Find Estelle: Click here to learn about and order "Writing that Gets Noticed: Find Your Voice, Become a Better Storyteller, Get Published" Click here for Estelle's website.  Click here for Estelle's Online Pitching Class with Writers Digest.     

What is it like when you get dressed in the morning? Do you walk into your closet happy and excited to put on the clothes you choose? Or do you try on three different pairs of pants, two skirts, and six tops in hopes of finding something that will cover up {insert part of your body you think poorly of here}?   Do you step each leg into your shapeware shoving in as much of your body as you possibly can thinking it is just a normal part of being a woman? What is it like when you are on the playground with your kids? Do you laugh exubererantly while you run around chansing them? Or do you worry about what is jiggling- convinced it should cause you shame?  How about at the beach? Or the pool? Is swimsuit shopping a time for you to find something to swim in? Or is it a time when you speak the meanest to yourself? Do you search desperately for an option that will hide as much of you as humanly possible while still being able to cool down in the water? Or maybe you skip the water all together because wearing a bathing suit is almost the deepest shame of all? How do you eat? Do you count calories? Intermittent fast? Have you been on a diet for decades only to gain weight?  Have you been prescirbed weight loss by medical professionals?  Are you sure to get in an extra 30 minutes at the gym so you can enjoy dessert on date night? Do you loathe exercise but believe it is necessary if you want to "manage your weight"? What if all of that is a narrative we have been fed for a purpose that does not serve us? What if it actually harms us? What if we spend most of our days berating ourselves, beating ourselves up, starving ourselves, missing out on life with the people we love and more for science that doesn't exist? And we do it all in exchange for advnacing our careers, living fully with our families, building the business we have always wanted to build and exploring the things that bring us joy so we can do more of them. Join us as Dr. Lisa Folden, Weight Inclusive Physical Therapist and Anti-Diet Health & Body Image Coach, helps us understand Diet Culture, moving joyfully, health, lazy medicine, health vs. weight, taking up space, and learning to live this one beautiful, precious life out loud! Find Dr. Lisa Folden here: Website Instagram Other References mentioned in show: No Weigh Association for Size Diversity & Health  

Does it happen to you, too? Forehead dripping with sweat, hear trate reaching 180, hands so clammy you cannot hold the ice cold water glass you desperately want to sip from to get rid of the cotton that somehow found its way to lining your mouth?  And then it's time for you to speak... in front of other people... and the whole world around you begins to spin... It's called Glassophobia and it's believed to affect more than 75% of people. But it's not just speaking in front of large groups that affects many of us, it's speaking up at PTA meetings, in social situations, and even at family gatherings. We women have been conditioned to shrink and quiet ourselves- not only when public speaking but in every element in our lives. When it comes to advanacing our career, sharing messages of impact, and participating in the conversations happening around us, getting comfortable speaking matters. In this epsiode, Speaking Confidence Coach and author of Delight in the Limelight Linda Ugelow digs into the root circumstances that cause us to fear showing ourselves and making ourselves heard. Through her diverse background with music, movement, psychology, and more Linda takes us down a path to help us become confident showing up, speaking up, and going after the things we want. Linda's book; "Delight in the Limelight" is indeed an incredible tool for those who want to get over their fear of speaking in front of others. Its message is also invaluable for helping each of us get back to who we are so we can be comfortable showing up and creating the life we want. Listen in as Linda and I talk about healing, speaking, being visible, and rewriting the rules in a real and practical way.  Where to find Linda and Delight in the Limelight: Linda and Delight in the Limelight Linda on Instagram  

Did you know that the US has a shortage of welders? Me either. But after reading a NYT article in 2009, Pa'Trice Frazier took a trip to her local school to ask if the statistics were true. Sure enough, the instructors confirmed that the US had a shortage of 150-200K welders on their hands. Pa'Trice signed up on the spot to become a welder. After becoming a certified welder, Pa'Trice spent the next years of her life traveling the US. How did she find work? She showed up where project job crews ate. She'd tell them she was a badass welder and asked if they needed one. This is how Pa'Trice began her career and how she gained the skills to become an award winning welder. From Mercedes Benz Stadium and Seaport Musuem in Atlanta to submarines, Pa'Trice has worked in tight spaces, fun spaces, and on time crunches. Pa'Trice is really, really good at what she does. In fact, Pa'Trice believes women have an advantage when it comes to welding. Pa'Trice could have stopped there; kept working hard, earning an excellent income, and excelling at her career. But this is not in Pa'Trice's nature.  In 2019 Pa'Trice founded Weld Jointed to guide young people who are looking for something more from life. She saw a path for youth who were looking for it; fill the gap that our nation needed to secure our infrastructure and give these young people a solid path as a welder.  Now, when Pa'Trice isn't letting it burn, baby, she serves as a self designated Welding Ambassador. She visits schools and events to talk to young people about welding. She mentors youth by helping them get into a welding program, find a job when they come out, and even get their PPE to get them started. She guides these young people into an incredible career! Imagine having had a Pa'Trice in your life?! Pa'Trice is one of these people who just keeps doing the work she is doing. She has too much to do to kick back admiring her life. Our interview was almost over before Pa'Trice causally mentioned the curriculum she is developing for prisoners! While Pa'Trice recognizes the importance of this work, she sees it as no big deal that she is the one doing it. In her opinion God gave her the ability to help, so she does. And "oh yeah". Pa'Trices latest work was BUILDING A HOT WHEEL- like a real, life size Hot Wheel, in Europe, with NBC and Peacock!  Getting to know Pa'Trice is a gift. Her wisdom, experience, and get shit done mentality remind me that forward motion is always possible. Do yourself a favor and don't miss this conversation with Pa'Trice Frazier; Master Welder and founder of Weld Jointed.  Find Pa'Trice here: Weld Jointed On Instagram        

Have you ever seen those gorgeous videos from your favorite brands- you know, the ones that show how they make their jelly or jewelry (or maybe even their beautiful tulip farm!) and wonder who makes them? Have you noticed the continuity in the images and video and appreciated that it tells you a story so you can really know the brand? Or maybe you've noticed there is an important person missing from your family photos (YOU!) and you'd like to become more confident being in them? Are you a photographer who would like to add Brand Photography, Strategy, and Video Storytelling to your services? If you are curious about any of these you will love getting to know Nicole Bedard! Nicole is a Brand Photographer, Strategist, and Video Storyteller who left her technical career in pursuit of a creative, joy filled life. It started with a flyer that made her think "wow! imagine if that was my work?! That would be so fun!" and has evolved into her most recent iteration- Drone Pilot! Yeah- there aren't many women who can put that next to their name! In this episode Nicole tells us what her work is, how she does it and how she has opted into a career she loves. Nicole also shares what it is like to watch women find confidence showing themselves to the world! Find Nicole here: Nicole Bedard Photo and Video On Instagram EXCITING UPDATE: Nicole is launching her first class! The Brand of Business Photography is available by clicking this link.   

In twenty years and beyond it will be interesting to look back and see the good that came out of the pandemic. Yes, it was a long and awful ride. It also gave us things we may not have found otherwise. Ready or Not! Media is one of those things.  The pandemic gave Lori Frisher a new view. Lori was the first recipient of Cochlear Implants and relies extensively on lip reading. When masks suddenly covered the mouths of those she was speaking with, the world changed.  Lori also became seriously ill during the pandemic. Communication was complicated at best and Lori understood the importance of accessilibty in a new way. Hence, Ready or Not! Meida was born.  Now, Lori spends her days bringing disability and diveristy inclusion to the forefront of businessses and organizations. Her method is one of open heartendness and curiosity. Through reaching out to people to talk about their DEI+A (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, plus accessibility) plan, Lori is bringing awareness through conversation and it doesn's stop there.  In addition to marketing and branding campaigns, public speaking, and event management serivces, Lori offers companies and individuals the opportunity to engage in experiential trainings. Trainings that allow us to better understand disability to make accessiblity and inclusion tangible.  Listen in as Lori and I talk about her story, her work, and her views for the future. Lori Frisher is powerful. This is how she works. You can connect with Lori Frisher and Ready or Not! Media here: Ready or Not! Media Website  Top Shelf Baskets Website Lori Frisher on LinkedIn  

Shark Tank may have been your introduction to Mrs. Goldfarb, too! As an avid watcher of Shark Tank I specifically remember when Jenny appeared. I was so excited to see a vegan deli meat on the show! Jenny's energy, passion, commitment and joy burst throught the screen. I found myself not only cheering her on but thrilled that she got a deal with one of my favorite Shark's; Mark Cuban. A couple of months ago Jenny's name popped up in a bunch of my vegan Facebook groups- turns out, Unreal Deli was launching in the service deli of Hannaford Supermarket! Do you know what the service deli is? It's the counter where you take a nubmer and order your deli meat and cheese. And a vegan deli meat was launching! From rolling a suitcase of samples into a local deli to the ailsles of Whole Foods, in this episode Jenny walks us through what it was like to get started in this space and bring her product mainstream. It's a remarkable story that goes back to Romania over a hundred years ago. In addition to sharing what her days are like, how she knows how much product to send to Whole Foods, and what it's like to work with a co-packer, Jenny also shares with us inspiraiton, wisdom, and belief in every one of us. This is an episode you do not want to miss!     

Which catalogs have arrived in your mailbox lately? For me this week it was LL Bean and J. Jill. I love looking through catalogs but never thought much about how they are created.  What surprised me after talking with Jess is how personal this process is. Jess really gets to know her clientele and puts so much thought into what they want. Jess and her team choose every item that makes it into their catalog. This is done through a process of getting to know her clientele and then finding the items they would like to buy. From attending fashion trade shows to find product all the way through working with the creative team to get the right photos and copy, Jess and her team are responsible for every item that makes it into their catalog. Then Jess is responsible for understanding which items did well, which might deserve another shot, and which are just not what her buyer is looking for. There's a whole business behind a catalog- well, duh! But I never connected it until talking with Jess. The whole process is fascinating and I will never look at catalog the same way again! In addition to all of this, Jess has created a beautiful and intentional life- one that values family, friends, team, and relationships more than anything it seems. Listen in to hear not how these beautiful catalogs are created but to see life imitating art yet again. 

Do you live with "The Curse"? When voicing your opinion have you beed asked if you are "on the rag"?  How society speaks about menstruation hurts women. It has caused us to believe we are "crazy", unreliable, and impossible to deal with during "that time of the month". It affects our lives- the choices we make, the way we talk to and think of ourselves, and the narratives we live by and pass on to our children.  What if it were different? What if we were able to tap into the power that comes from hormones? Not in a hippy-dippy way, but in a science backed biological way? What if hearing from Menstraul Health Coach Tara McCann changed the way you planned your weeks and months to be more productive, efficicient, and respectful to yourself? I did this interview about six weeks before I am writing this and it has changed the way I move through life. I feel empowered and like I have a better understanding of how to work with my hormones instead of fighting or suffering through them.  I also learned some powerful language shifts that will make the world a better and more empowered place for everyone. Tara is a wealth of knowledge and her goals are inspiring, hopeful, and powerful!  Listen in as I chat with Tara McCann, Menstrual Health Coach. 

You know those people who have no idea how inspring their life is? Whose stories and choices are so powerful they shift the way we understand life? That's not what I was looking for when I considered who might be an awesome guest for October. Yes, talking with Steph Strensrud hits all the horror marks; man eating plants. Zombies. Edgar Allen Poe. Horror cons. They are all in here.  What hadn't occurred to me though is what it took for Steph to create a life that centered her passion for horror. That like all creative pursuits, Steph had to learn to listen to herself. Trust her gut. Get still. Let her creative self lead her where she needed to go.  This episode is chock full of not only poignant words of wisdom,  but stories and choices from Steph's own life that illustrate what it looks like to truly follow your passion. To trust that it will get you exactly where you are supposed to be. Funnily enough, this episode about horror is spectacularly beautiful. Until I started following Steph I wasn't able to see the beauty in horror. I missed the art. Let the "scariness" of it all stop me from looking.  I am so thankful to Steph for opening my eyes to a part of the creative world I was missing. And also for taking time to share her extraordinary journey with us- a journey that led her to living a life full of beautiful horror.  Listen in to see what I mean.

Do you know what a forensic psychologist does? Are you sure? Most of us think we know what a foresnsic psychologist does from watching LA Law, SVU, and other crime shows. In this episode, Kate Wallinga not only gives us an idea of what the work of a foresnic psychologist is, she adds in the humanity. From court room to prison, Kate's vast background is hard to imagine choosing. Listening to her talk about her work is both eye opening and humbling. Her words inspired me to dig deeper to see the humanity in everyone and gave me a new (and more accurate) understanding of the work of a forensic psychologist.  Listen in as I talk to Kate Wallinga, foresnsic psychologist. 

Whew. I thought we were going to spend this hour talking about how the world of virtual assistants works and what it's like founding and running an agency. We did, of course. What I hadn't accounted for is the experience of not only starting a business like this and making it successful but the mindset, fortitude, and perseverance it takes to make the decision -and do the work- to get to the starting point.  The wisdom and vulnerablity Emilie shares in this epidose is empowering, inspiring, and practical. Emilie is not somebody who is trying to build a business through here message, building her business is what gives her the wisdom and inspiration to share her message.  This interview stuck with me long after we were finished talking and editing it was a gift. Give yourself the gift of listening to Emiie Given, Founder and CEO of She's a GIven Executive Virtual Assistant Services.  Here are some links that were mentioned in the show. You can click on the links to get to them: She's a Given Executive Virtual Assitant Services She's a Given Academy Emilie's Birth Story You can google Emilie's birth story. When she said it went viral she meant it! There are pages and pages (and pages!) of her story covered by news outlets all over the world! I cannot imagine the terror that made up her experience. If you get a chance to read her story before you listen to this episode, do. It will make it all the more powerful and empowering.       

There has been so much talk about genealogy in the last few years with new accessibilty to it through websites and apps. Do you know what a genealogist does though? Do you know how she gets her information? How she connects with clients? For what purposes people want their genealogy investigated? Listen in as Beth Tykodi shares both her passion and professionalism for Genealogy. Beth talks about how she got started, what training was like and how she works with clients. It's fascinating and heartwarming.  LIisten in!

What's something you have always wanted to do but felt too afraid? My list is too long to share! Not Dottie's though. In this episode Dottie talks with me about what it was like to start figure skating competatively in her 30's. From competeing against teens to finding a club with other adults, Dottie stayed the course and her efforts have have rewarded her over and over again. One of the things I most love about this episode is the ripple effect it will have on each of us. The next time we really want to try something but are tempted to say "no" for a reason that doesn't need to stop us, I believe we will think of Dottie. We will remember her words and the experiences she shared and we just might say "yes"! Enjoy this episode with Dottie Janson, Amateur Competetive Figure Skater and if it resonates you please share Dottie's episode with someone else who would like to hear it! 

Many white people wonder how to be effective in dismantling systemic racism. We can get stuck while trying to say, learn, or express the "perfect" thing. We are not sure how to learn the stories of, and support, Black and Indigenous People of Color (BIPOC) without burdening them. We know we need to call other white people in, and we want to make sure we are not taking the lead or centering ourselves.   Listen in as Julia Schuster, core team member of Showing up for Racial Justice (SURJ) Denver, shares her own insights, paradigms, and tools for engaging in the essential work of dismantling system racism.   EPISODE NOTE: The SURJ Denver team receives feedback from local accountability partners, all of which are community leaders or organizations led by BIPOC, as part of their work. The work that SURJ Denver engages in is requested by their accountability partners. Though participation in this podcast was not a direct request from an accountability partner, SURJ Denver has received the request to take on more of the work of calling in and educating other white people during this time.    NOTE: Julia would like to note the following corrections:    1. There are 15 Characteristics of White Supremacy.   2. Julia discusses looking for actions organized by organizations led by People of Color. She meant to say look for actions organized by organizations or groups led by People of Color. Sometimes actions are led by groups without formal name recognition or other status that may typically deem them as an "organization," and lack of formal "status" should not discount their work. SURJ Denver encourages white people to generally look for actions and community events organized by a collaborative group as opposed to those organized by a single individual. Works Rerferenced and Recommended in this Episode: Books and Workbooks: The New Jim Crow by Michelle Alexander “Two years after Obama’s election, Alexander put the entire criminal justice system on trial, exposing racial discrimination from lawmaking to policing to the denial of voting rights to ex-prisoners. This bestseller struck the spark that would eventually light the fire of Black Lives Matter.” —Ibram X. Kendi, The New York Time Dismantling Racism by Kenneth Jones and Tema Okun "Dismantling Racism Works (dRworks) is ​pleased to offer our workbook and other resources. We hope you find the material here useful to you, your organization, and your community. " Me and White Supremacy by Layla Saad  "Me and White Supremacy: A 28-Day Challenge to Combat Racism, Change the World, and Become a Good Ancestor leads readers through a journey of understanding their white privilege and participation in white supremacy, so that they can stop (often unconsciously) inflicting damage on black, indigenous and people of color, and in turn, help other white people do better, too. The book goes beyond the original workbook by adding more historical and cultural contexts, sharing moving stories and anecdotes, and includes expanded definitions, examples, and further resources." So You Want to Talk About Race by Ijeoma Oluo "In this New York Times bestseller, Ijeoma Oluo offers a hard-hitting but user-friendly examination of race in America   Widespread reporting on aspects of white supremacy--from police brutality to the mass incarceration of Black Americans--has put a media spotlight on racism in our society. Still, it is a difficult subject to talk about. How do you tell your roommate her jokes are racist? Why did your sister-in-law take umbrage when you asked to touch her hair--and how do you make it right? How do you explain white privilege to your white, privileged friend?   In So You Want to Talk About Race, Ijeoma Oluo guides readers of all races through subjects ranging from intersectionality and affirmative action to "model minorities" in an attempt to make the seemingly impossible possible: honest conversations about race and racism, and how they infect almost every aspect of American life." Social Media: Rachel Cargle, Public Academic, Writer, and Lecturer Ericka Hart, Sex Educator, Racial/Social/ Gender Justice Disruptor, Podcaster, Breast Cancer Survivor, Model Sonya Renee Taylor, Award Winning Poet, Activist, Author, and Leader Showing Up for Racial Justice, SURJ-Denver  Showing Up for Racial Justice, National  

Whoa. Don't you feel like you are going to wake up tomorrow and all of this will have been a dream- or rather a nightmare? We went from living one way to living another way in the span of about 24 hours. There is so much legitimate fear right now. We have no answers. We cannot wrap our heads around this because we don't even have a strong sense of what "it" is.  We want our kids to feel safe. How do we help them when we ourselves don't even feel safe? Should we be strict and regimented? Let them do whatever they want to keep them distracted?  There are also the practical challenges like working and schooling from home by necessity. Living together literally 24/7 is new for a lot of people. Roya Dedeaux is a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist with a focus on parenting and play. In this episode Roya offers us a shift in the way we think that could turn this time from chaos and disconnection to a time that might offer beauty, connection, and new understandings of each other. Here are the links referenced in today's show: Find Roya and schedule a 1/2 price texting session by clicking here.  Find Jane McGonigal's Super Better by clicking here. Find Darcel White of The Mahogany Way by clicking here. 

Social justice takes many forms. While we tend to think of marches, boycotts, and petitions, there are women who have devoted their lives and careers to taking practical action for social justice. Civil rights attorney Sandra Hanshaw Burink is one of those women. Sandra tells us about how she determines whether a case exists, how she prepares, how she communicates with her clients and how she prepares for a case. In addition to all of this, Sandra shares wisdom, courage, and sheer bravery as she not only learned how to take depositions and try cases, but as she learned how to navigate life transitions, like divorce, while exemplifying integrity and grace. You won't want to miss today's incredible episode. HOST NOTE: As mentioned in the break I am working on an offering for women. "Wholehearted Self-Love for Women" is a set of carefully curated tools to help women love themselves more. It is not a teaching, program, or course. It is an offering- an opportunity for us to love ourselves more. It is low-key, low-pressure, and all women are welcome. Here is the link to learn more: Click here for Wholehearted Self-Love for Women

"Peanuts! Get your peanuts!" Except now it's Berry Kabobs and they are being sold by a woman, not a man. Listen in as High School Senior (our youngest guest yet!) Katie Eckhardt talks about the work done behind the scenes to make the Colorado Rockies games spectacular for fans. From how Katie deals with the heat to which players she's met you'll gain a better understanding of the inner workings of a professional baseball stadium. You'll also get a beautiful dose of hopefulness for what the next generation is ushering in as Katie offers her words of wisdom on self-worth, self-confidence, and her own plans for the future. Join us!

I am so excited to share the trailer for Real Women's Work with you! I will continue to do some editing on it but I have been sitting on it for months and it's time to just get it out there. I appreciate your feedback and use it to make the show better so please know that I welcome and appreciate it. Also in this episode: a quick programming note and a story about Real Women's Work. THANK YOU for listening! 

All of us parents of girls want our daughters to have high self-worth and self confidence, a strong sense of their core beliefs, and the ability to say "no" to things that make them uncomfortable, and "yes" to things that bring them joy. With so much conflated information surrounding us, though, how can we ensure a positive body image and strong communication skills?The answer is both simpler and more difficult than we think. Maria Fuller gave up a successful photography business to follow a different path- a path that guides parents in raising a powerful girl and empowers girls. Through the programs, apps, and podcast created by Maria, parents are feeling hopeful about empowering their daughters. Through the Empowered Girl Movement and accompanying app, girls are learning how to navigate social media to help them feel powerful and positive, and are raising their self-worth and level of personal empowerment. Listen in as Maria shares how she got this movement started, what her days look like, and the family culture she has intentionally created to empower her own daughters.  You can learn more here: Raising a Powerful Girl Empowered Girl Movement

I want to introduce you to this week's guest. Gloria Mitchell is a Crisis and Performance Coach for Entrepreneurs and Public Figures. Her story will blow you away, inspire you, encourage you, empower you, and you will be so grateful that Gloria is in this world. The time I spent talking with Gloria was a gift that I haven’t even fully inhaled yet. I am so grateful that Gloria shared her time on Real Women’s Work. Not only do we get to learn about how Gloria does her work, she offers us insights, suggestions, observations on fear, dark times, scary times, resiliency and the value in owning our story. Ultimately, Gloria offers us a real and tangible example of what it means to choose to live a life with authenticity, meaning, courage and resiliency.  After listening to Gloria on this episode of Real Women's Work you are surely going to want to hear more from her. Here is where you can find her: GloriaMitchell.com Gloria Mitchell on Instagram Gloria Mitchell on LinkedIn And here is a link to the affirmation app Gloria references in this episode: Think Up App

While bubble baths and mani/pedis are awesome, I think real self-care goes deeper. From the way we speak to ourselves and the clothes we wear to the food we eat and the way we sleep, messaging may be talking us into schedules and diets that do not take care of us at all! Listen in as Jen shares her own journey of moving through a mental breakdown to reach thriving- all through the (often difficult and tiring) practice of developing real and continuous self-care.  CONTENT NOTE: I have never done a "solocast" before. Eep! Let me tell you how weird it felt sitting in my closet talking! (and this from a Voice Over Talent who is used to it!). I am becoming passionate about this topic though and feel like we need to broaden the conversation now. Here is the book I referenced in today's show: Self-Compassion by Dr. Kristin Neff. Click here to find the book on Amazon. Dr. Neff also has a website with exercises and other great info. You can click here to access it.   

Wow! You know those things that you never knew you never had? That you never knew you always wanted?  Until I was introduced to the work that Ashley Hart is doing with her two best friends at She Plays I never would have thought to think that women athletes are not represented with Fantasy Sports! As an athlete growing up my idols were Michael Jordan and Larry Bird. I was older when the WNBA came out and it was still so new that it wasn't part of the conversation. Women athletes were not part of the conversation. Our coaches were men. Our referees were men.  It's okay. It was what it was. But things- they are changing. All you have to do is listen to Ashley to understand that. This work is so important and getting to hear from someone who is in there doing it is insightful, inspiring, hopeful, and fills us with gratitude and excitement.  Once you've listened to Ashley you are surely going to want to know more, so here is where you can find She Plays: She-Plays.com She Plays on Insta She Plays on Facebook She Plays on Twitter

Have you heard the term but are not sure what it means? Maybe you think you know what Impostor Syndrome means but that it doesn't apply to you because you are not in a "creative" field?  As award winning game writer Crystal Mazur shares in this workshop, Impostor Syndrome can kick in whether you are the CEO of a Fortune 500 company or attending a potting class for the first time. Like all things that increase our self awareness, knowing what Impostor Syndrome is can help lessen its effects on our lives.  In this recorded workshop Crystal shares tips, tools and observations to recognize Impostor Syndrome, set ourselves up to avoid it, and deal with it when it hits.  CONTENT NOTE: This is the first time we have ever done a Video Workshop. It was awesome! Like many first times though, there were a lot of things I was not aware of. For example, when it sounds like I am calling Crystal the wrong name, I'm not :) I am referring to a comment from an attendee. Next time I will reference that as I am addressing it so that it's not confusing. I also need to ask for your patience with my audio (not Crystal's- hers was great). I was renovating my home studio and this being the first video workshop, I was totally focused on that. So THANK YOU for your patience with my audio in this episode. We have 8 more workshops coming up so be sure to sign up for our newsletter (click here) so you know when they are happening! These are totally informal and we would LOVE to have you join us.  Enjoy today's chat on Impostor Syndrome! You can find more inspiration and awesomeness from Crystal here:   The Geeky Panda Blog On Facebook On Instagram On Pinterest On Twitter 

Learning about our reproductive health as women is not only empowering, it may directly change outcomes for future generations. I had not understood this before talking with De'Nicea Hilton; Doctor of Oriental Medicine, Speaker, and Women's Health Advocate. While talking with De'Nicea I began to understand things differently. I understood that looking at a holistic picture of the life of the person in front of a practitioner is important. I began to think differently about how I will speak to my own daughter about women's health, fertility, and reproductive cycles. I started thinking that the misery that has come with my own cycles and accepted as normal, may be anything but. Listen in as De'Nicea talks about how she moved from pre-med in western medicine to becoming a Doctor of Oriental Medicine, the reasons women come to see her, why she must live her days in a way that makes sense for her, and a different perspective on women's health. As with all of our interviews here on Real Women's Work you will feel empowered and think differently about yourself and other women after this episode! Tune in! You can find De'Nicea Hilton here on Social Media: Deniceahilton.com www.instagram.com/deniceahilton www.linkedin.com/deniceahilton 

This episode feels like one of the most important to be included so far. Not because being a Stay at Home Mom is more important than being any other kind of mom but because I suspect including it here is unexpected. Martha Delmore's intention, wisdom, thoughtfulness, & intelligence are a gift for us all. From teacher who vocally opposed homeschooling to creating a life chock full of joy & happiness with her family, Martha's words offer parents and non-parents alike tools & inspiration to be happy.

Lexi Wilson followed her path toward becoming an art teacher all the way through college. Then, something shifted. Working through mental health issues and with intention Lexi decided she would follow a path that brought her even more passion, creativity and joy while making the world a better place. Find out how Lexi got her vintage business started, how she finds, prices, and sells items, who buys the items (you might be surprised) and what her work is like as she creates a custom designed life!

How do you choose a color line? What's it like to work New York Fashion Week? Did you really get to go on that yacht with the models?! Traci Estrada answers these questions and offers us so much more. From getting over belittling comments from a jackass on her first day doing this work to traveling all over the world, Traci has had a lot of life in between. She generously shares her wisdom, big thinking, and incredible commitment to raising up other women. Listen in!

Sometimes everything changes in a single moment when a glance is exchanged between sisters and their entire focus unexpectedly shifts. Listen in as Jessica Price shares how she got started with Moms Demand Action and this work, how she's learned the things she needs to know, and what her activity looks like as she leads others in preventing gun violence in America. This episode is part of the Women Podcasters in Solidarity initiative. Please visit WomenPodcastersinSolidarity.com to learn more.

Sometimes when we do something regularly we don't think about what's going on behind the scenes. Join us as Pat Keefe, Medical Office Coordinator, takes us behind the counter at a large medical office. From how files are kept to what happens when there is no room in the schedule for a sick patient, listening to this episode will give you a different understanding the next time you visit your doctor! 

Who else gets giddy with all things paper?! Add gorgeous, whimsical art to it and I can barely contain myself! Join us as Sarah Collins, Owner and Founder of Whimsicals Paperie shares how she went from art education to whimsical paper product creator. Learn how she comes up with her designs, when she creates them and how she gets them onto all of her amazing paper goods! And as always, there is incredible wisdom, perspective and experience peppered throughout. Listen in!

We have all been invited to the Facebook parties or attended a book fair, but do you know what goes in to creating both of these events? Listen in as Sarah Goins, Consultant with Usborne Books and More, talks about starting a direct selling business, learning what is needed to make it successful, and how she is able to give back to causes near to her heart.

How does Humanitarian Aid end up where it is needed? How do we know we are delivering needed, useful, and respectful items? How does one even begin doing something like this? Join us as Nadia Alawa, Founder and President of NuDay Syria, shares how they collect, distribute and ship Humanitarian Aid to Syria, one person at a time- one humanity closer. 

After planning to use her dairy farm as a model for responsible farming practices, Andrea Davis had a change of heart. She courageously opted out of using animals for anything and instead turned her farm into a sanctuary. Now, animals who live at Broken Shovels Farm Sanctuary are safe, happy, well cared for and loved for the remainder of their days. Tune in to hear how this city girl became a farmer, what her days are like, and about her incredible bond with animals.

Supporting women a world away is not a role Kerry Banzet expected to be in. After an unexpected trip to Uganda, Kerry realized that her contribution may not be orphan care. Instead, Kerry was called to serve single mothers and their children. With no experience, Kerry partnered up with her Ugandan friend Monica Mukanza and together, they started "Hope for Maamas Uganda", a 501(c)(3) organization that pays for schooling for children who cannot afford it and provides small business grants for single mothers so that families can stay together. 

Life took some unexpected turns for Michelle Nelson-Schmidt. She moved away from an education that didn't fit and followed her fiery passion through hard times until it landed her where she knows she is supposed to be. With characters that introduce themselves to her, an incredible message of love and hope for children, and a passion for making kids feel okay exactly as they are, Michelle and her work are a world changing gift for us all! Listen in!

With one of her degrees in Recreation and Leisure, Roya Dedeaux practices what she teaches. Roya's passion for play guides her writing, teaching, therapy practice and parenting and she is sharing her valuable knowledge and observations with all of us in her soon to be published book "Protecting their Passions." Listen in as Roya talks about her unique childhood as an Unschooler, what her days are like, and how everything is coming together to create a blissfully productive passion filled life!

After spending time in Finance, Jodi Grundig became a mom and wanted something more flexible. She started a successful mom blog. Travel has always been Jodi's passion though, and she followed it. Listen in as award winning Travel Writer and founder of Family Travel Magazine Jodi Grundig shares how she went from Mom Blogger to Travel Writer, how she decides where to travel and what to write about, and what it's like to live the life of a Travel Writer.

An island off the coast of Maine. Ferrying to work. A rhubarb toting Jeep. Pillar of the community. Sounds idyllic, right? While Amanda O'Brien is creating a life she loves it has not all been easy- building a business, and a life never is. Amanda's focus on community, local Farmers and learning is inspiring. Listen in as Amanda talks about starting Eighteen Twenty Wines, the many lessons she has learned, and creating something that is hers. 

Communal success was not a term I was familiar with before talking with Jazmine Casado, founder of Casado Creative. Jazmine has created a unique and exciting model that allows businesses to achieve success alongside and with each other. Strengthening community, bettering the skills she already possesses, and designing the life that makes sense for her and her family is Jazmine's focus. Listen is as Jazmine shares her insights from learning to forge her own path!

What if you or your kids only focus on one thing? It can feel stressful- as though we should force our kids or ourselves to try other things. Leah Orleans is a Circus Acrobat, Contortionist, and Co-Founder of Actrobatrix. With the support of her parents, Leah has singularly focused on this her whole life. Now, it's her passion, love, joy, and full time income. Join us as Leah shares what her days are like and how she trains, writes her shows, and manages her thriving business.

Do you or someone you love snore? Have TMJ? ADHD? Thumb Suck? Have back or neck pain? You will be fascinated listening to this episode with Laura Eckhardt, Myofunctional Therapist. This is a special episode. It was the situation I talk about in this episode that led to my long walks listening to podcasts, which led to Real Women's Work. Laura is a compassionate therapist who is excellent at what she does.  Treatment with Laura felt like magic to me! Join us for this special episode of Real Women's Work!

It's easy to think people are born with the skills they are good at, but something that looks easy or natural may have taken a lot of work to develop. This is true for Krystal Covington, founder of Women of Denver. As an introvert who has lived with shyness, Krystal now leads events and an organization for hundreds of women. Listen in as Krystal shares her wisdom, experience, and tools for developing those things we wish we were good at!

Whether you are a huge fan of Role Playing Games or barely know what Dungeons and Dragons is, you'll be able to relate to Award Winning Game Developer and Freelance Writer Crystal Mazur as she talks about Impostor Syndrome, her unique writing practice, and her surprise at winning an Ennie! Crystal's observations, honesty, and helpful reminders encourage us all to pick up that creative project we think we are not capable of doing!

Have you ever wondered how paramedics do their work? How do they respond to a call that would send most of us into a puddle of tears? How do they think so quickly on their feet and what is it like to be in the ambulance riding to a call? Are they talking about the latest movie they saw or what they will do when they arrive on scene? How do they know what to do? These questions are answered along with many others as we gain a deeper appreciation for being able to pick up the phone and dial 9-1-1.

Imagine standing atop Mt. Kilimanjaro and being struck by a feeling so big you know it is your life's purpose. It seems like something out of a movie or a made up script but this is the real life story of Jules Brown. Jules is a marathoner, world traveler, and supporter of women who has learned to embrace a profound zest for life. She has embarked on a new venture bringing women The Complete Experience of travel, health, and community. Don't miss this inspiring episode chock full of valuable insight!

Did you know that in some cities crime victims have an advocate to support them through the process of their perpetrator moving through the criminal justice system? You might be surprised to learn how this paid position came to be and what life in this role looks like. Join us on this episode of Real Women's Work as Mandy Noonan shares the work she does with the Denver District Attorney's Office. The work is endless, draining, and exhausting, and Mandy shares how and why she does what she does. 

From the time Kathryn was 16 she knew what she wanted to do. Though the path isn't always neat and linear, Kathryn is doing exactly the work she envisioned. In this episode, Kathryn shares that though it can look smooth from the outside, learning to find balance with a 40-50% travel schedule isn't always easy. What keeps her going? She is learning to prioritize what she values. You will not want to miss the wise and useful words from Kathryn in today's episode! 

There may be nothing better than hearing about why someone does the work they do. It's easy to take those in the helping professions for granted. Through her stories in this episode of Real Women's Work, Nichelle McKinney, CNA, reminds us of the kind of heart it takes to do hard work and why we should be grateful!