The Beautiful Climb with Michelle Knight

I'll keep this short and sweet. One of the things, I've learned as a woman is if you want to live a life of alignment and FUN, you have to be adaptable. As ideas come to life you have to ask yourself, “Is it time?” Well, in the case of The Beautiful Climb podcast it's time for a change and I'm so excited to share with you in today's episode exactly what that means! Tune in today to hear about the exciting change and addition coming to The Beautiful Climb. LET'S CONNECThttp://michelleknight.cohttp://instagram.com/michelleknightco http://facebook.com/brandmerrycoaching Branding + Marketing: http://brandmerry.com

Last month I received a message on Instagram, asking if I ever find myself in a funk. At first, I was like….um of course, I'm human. But, then as I thought more about it and how social media can appear sometimes I realized that the “funky” moments aren't always documented. So, what's a girl to do other than put some eye moisturizer patches on, sit on the floor of her closet and get vulnerable about the not-so-fun-times and what I do to pull myself out of a funk?! Today, on the podcast I'm sharing five life hacks I use to pull myself out of a funk so I can show the F up.  If you're looking for tools to add to your toolbox, this episode is for you! Tune in on your favorite platform and let's get started. And after you listen to this week's episode, be sure to check out some of the other resources to support you on your journey: Listen to Episode 8 on building a Resilient Mindset. Tune into my full money story and how I've rewritten it in Episode 26 And this fun interview with my friend and Academy coach, Tani Morgan on 8 Mindset Shifts for Your First Year in Business. LET'S CONNECThttp://michelleknight.cohttp://instagram.com/michelleknightco http://facebook.com/brandmerrycoaching Branding + Marketing: http://brandmerry.com

If you're an entrepreneur or thinking of starting an online business (hello, side hustle) then you should know there is quite the great debate online. The question……”Should running a business be easy?” It might feel like everyone is talking about how easy it is to run a business, or the flow they used to achieve x, y and z results and while I do believe in simple, streamlined and making aligned decisions - I think it's actually doing more harm than good to tell entrepreneurs it's “EASY!” Why do I feel this way, you ask? Well, I've seen this thinking truly affect entrepreneurs, especially new entrepreneurs who begin to doubt themselves and their ability because it doesn't feel easy for them. So today on the podcast I'm sharing with you a pretty honest conversation about what it REALLY takes to run an online business. This episode is for you if you:++ Currently run an online business++ Are thinking of launching an online business in 2021++ Or have dreams of creating a side hustle to add more income to your life Tune in on your favorite platform and let's get started. LET'S CONNECThttp://michelleknight.cohttp://instagram.com/michelleknightco http://facebook.com/brandmerrycoaching Branding + Marketing: http://brandmerry.com

After starting my business Brandmerry in 2016, my husband and I knew we wanted the flexibility to travel. We spent about two years taking extended vacations until we sold our home in 2019 to travel full-time in a 36-foot RV. To say I know a thing or two about traveling and working is an understatement. I've witnessed the pros and cons of working while traveling or fully embracing the digital nomad life (aka working and living in new places). After 2020, more and more people are seeing the possibility of working from just about anywhere. Whether you're going all-in on starting your own business which gives you the freedom to work from anywhere and create your own schedule or you're able to work digitally for a company you've probably thought about working from a beach (let me just says it's everything you imagined). So, today I want to share with you my top tips for starting small and taking an extended vacation/ work trip, that's equal parts work and play! LET'S CONNECThttp://michelleknight.cohttp://instagram.com/michelleknightco http://facebook.com/brandmerrycoaching Branding + Marketing: http://brandmerry.com

Let me guess you saw that title and you thought, “Heck, yes this is something I need support with!” And oh I get it, I've been there so many times before! Now one of the things I want to share with you out of the gate, is that I'm not promising to rid you of your feeling of imposter syndrome because I don't think it ever fully goes away. What I do believe, as with anything mindset-related, you have to actively be flexing your muscle to move through something difficult.  Things feelings don't stop happening to you. It's not that you stop comparing yourself to somebody else.  You might continue, if you're an entrepreneur, to feel like there's not a space for you in the market. It's not that you don't initiate a change and feel 100% confident every step of the way. We all experience these bouts of imposter syndrome at different moments in time. But, what does happen is you become stronger and as a result,  you can move through those things quickly and with confidence, and they don't affect you for long periods of time. If you're struggling with feeling worthy of doing something different, making a difference or initiating a big change, this episode is for you! LET'S CONNECT http://michelleknight.cohttp://instagram.com/michelleknightco http://facebook.com/brandmerrycoaching Branding + Marketing: http://brandmerry.com

I'm celebrating one year of The Beautiful Climb podcast with one of the hardest episodes I've recorded since the first episode. Why? Because what I'm sharing on today's episode is something that I think about constantly...the reality and truth about making hard decisions. When I was younger I always thought that change was exciting. The thought of moving to a new city. The thought of seeing new places. The thought of changing my hair.  Thinking about change always got me excited and equally terrified. That's the thing about change, it's exciting and thrilling in the beginning, but hard to initiate after the adrenaline has rubbed off. A central theme of the podcast has always centered around the idea of making changes and hard decisions because you want more. Something inside of you is pulling you to make a change that in turn compliments the life you want to create for yourself and others. And today we're diving into what that really looks like, plus four truths I've discovered about making hard decisions in life. LET'S CONNECThttp://michelleknight.cohttp://instagram.com/michelleknightco http://facebook.com/brandmerrycoaching Branding + Marketing: http://brandmerry.com

I can convince myself to not do something like a freaking pro. Honestly, for the majority of my life, I would convince myself that I didn't need to do something that I had promised I'd do. I'd constantly listen to that little voice in my head trying to sabotage me and then justify it! It was exhausting and for years, I wondered why I'd set big goals and not achieve them. Turns out I wasn't allowing myself to do it. Today, on the podcast I'm sharing more about the idea of setting boundaries with your inner self so you can achieve the life you want. We hear a lot about setting boundaries with others, but how are we supposed to honor those if we can't even honor the ones we set with ourselves. The truth is so many women struggle with this and today I'm sharing small steps you can take to honor your commitments to yourself and spend your time and energy on the things that will serve you at the highest level. Tune in on your favorite platform and let's get started. LET'S CONNECThttp://michelleknight.cohttp://instagram.com/michelleknightco http://facebook.com/brandmerrycoaching Branding + Marketing: http://brandmerry.com

Today's episode is about knowing your worth and acting like it. Sorry to be so blunt but the truth is most women don't demonstrate their worth daily by asking for what they want, setting boundaries and making themselves a priority. And as women, the expectations are ridiculously high not only for how we should be caring for others but the lack of care we then must give ourselves. And I hate to break it to you but this cycle won't stop until we say, “I'm done!” and start going for what we want and all of that starts with owning our story and living in a place of worthiness. Because no one will hand it to us we have to demand it.  So, if you're ready today's episode is for you. LET'S CONNECThttp://michelleknight.cohttp://instagram.com/michelleknightco http://facebook.com/brandmerrycoaching Branding + Marketing: http://brandmerry.com

If I'm being honest, I have a lot of “beef” with the whole concept of morning routines. There's a lot of false expectations around what a morning routine is and what we SHOULD be doing.  Well, if you know me I frequently say F the shoulds and like to go my own way. So, today's episode is about honoring the proven benefit of a morning routine while also giving you permission, inspiration and a little framework to make it your own. If you've struggled with a morning routine in the past or feel you're due for a change, I've got you! I've had a wild roller coaster ride with morning routines over the years and have learned a thing or two (or ten). From my morning routine while working a 9 to 5 with a baby. To my morning routine when I left my 9 to 5, but suddenly had a child that got into everything. From changing my routine when we started traveling. To my current routine, when I honestly have all the time in the world. I've been there, done that and want to share the journey with you today. Tune in on your favorite platform and let's get started. And after you listen to this week's episode, be sure to check out some of the other resources mentioned in this episode: Episode 14 dives into the power of Habits  Wanting a pep talk on Wanting More? Listen to Episode 07  The skincare line I mentioned in the episode and another I'm using And don't forget to check out Atomic Habits by James Clear   LET'S CONNECThttp://michelleknight.cohttp://instagram.com/michelleknightco http://facebook.com/brandmerrycoaching Branding + Marketing: http://brandmerry.com

Today's episode is inspired by The Greatest Showman and a recent Peloton ride.  While riding and jamming out to one of the most inspiring soundtracks, I had a moment where I was thinking about the power of dreaming and the detriment of waiting. Thinking about admitting your dreams.Thinking about making hard decisions to make your dreams a reality.Thinking about the discomfort that comes from admitting and going after those dreams.Thinking about how quickly everything can change. This journey is not easy - it's uncomfortable but so worth it. And today's podcast dives into the power of holding the vision of your future and not waiting to take action. The truth is life is short and I know that sounds like a quote on your mom's kitchen wall, but it's true! I've experienced this first hand walking so closely and living through grief. And when we truly realize that time is limited and action is required we live in alignment and that's the energy I want you to bring into and sustain in 2021. Because over here we believe in living a life in alignment, which starts with admitting your dreams, holding that vision and taking action. And after you listen to this week's episode, be sure to check out some of the other resources mentioned in this week's episode: Episode 14 dives into the power of Habits Wanting a pep talk on Wanting More? Listen to Episode 07 Ready for a mindset pep talk with one of my favorite people? Join Tani and I on episode 31 And finally, be sure to listen to the first episode of 2021 on setting Intentions and Goal Setting LET'S CONNECThttp://michelleknight.cohttp://instagram.com/michelleknightco http://facebook.com/brandmerrycoaching Branding + Marketing: http://brandmerry.com

Happy 2021, The Beautiful Climb podcast is back with new episodes every other Friday in 2021. And we're kicking it off with a super HOT topic and so timely if I might add. In this week's episode, I'm sharing some of my top tips for making plans for the New Year, and not the old school way of goal setting, but a more intentional approach. Look, I know 2020, didn't quite go as planned for anyone, but that doesn't mean planning is out the window. I'm a firm believer that setting goals (aka intentions) allow us to move forward with confidence, rather than wondering, “What do I want to be doing?” It's how we create an intentional, actionable and aligned life. Truth be told, I've been obsessed with goal setting and planning since I was a little girl. I would write my yearly goals on index cards and display them proudly. I didn't know then that I needed to take daily action to make them happen, but at least I was putting in some of the efforts. Needless to say, I didn't achieve many of those goals! So what's changed for me other the years? It's all in HOW I plan and today on the podcast I'm walking you through it! LET'S CONNECThttp://michelleknight.cohttp://instagram.com/michelleknightco http://facebook.com/brandmerrycoaching Branding + Marketing: http://brandmerry.com

Starting a business is a lot of work. Not only are you navigating the ins and outs of your brand, your website, technology, growing a community and making your first sales, but your head is doing its own thing. I always say become an entrepreneur fast-tracked my personal development and forced me to make some necessary mindset shifts to support my big dreams and new daily habits. So, when we were about to open the doors to my program Roadmap to Freedom, which is specifically designed to support new and aspiring female entrepreneurs I knew I had to invite my friend, Tani Morgan to join me. Today, on the podcast, Tani joins me for a fun and honest conversation about the 8 Mindset Shifts Necessary for Your First Year in Business to 6-Figures. This episode will serve you as a woman no matter your career (i.e. working for yourself or someone else) because at the end of the day your mindset is half the battle. Tune in to Episode 31, of the podcast to hear: Why trusting the process is half the battle and our top tips to feel more supported daily in your life and business. Our #1 shift that can't be skipped (hint: this affects every area of your life). Why Tani and I believe you need 50% mindset and 50% strategy to be successful. LET'S CONNECThttp://michelleknight.cohttp://instagram.com/michelleknightco http://facebook.com/brandmerrycoaching Branding + Marketing: http://brandmerry.com

During my first year of business, I had a really hard time ignoring the fact that it seemed like everyone, and their mom was doing what I wanted to do. Maybe you've felt the same way. Felt the weight of seeing your “competition” online? Wondering how you fit it? Does it ever feel like everyone is saying the same thing you are? I totally get that feeling and the reality is it might be true. But, one thing I've learned is that standing out online, especially when the market is crowded, comes down to three key pieces you already possess. Yep, you don't need anything new, you just have to tap into your power. Today, on the podcast I'm sharing three ways to stand out in a saturated market. Tune in to Episode 30, of the podcast to hear: Why buying into the idea that you don't have a place in the market is keeping you from being successful. How to tap into your most underutilized and free resource when it comes to standing out online. How to enhance your content and marketing so you attract the right people! LET'S CONNECThttp://michelleknight.cohttp://instagram.com/michelleknightco http://facebook.com/brandmerrycoaching Branding + Marketing: http://brandmerry.com

Every single day I am messaged or approached by someone who is concerned with their Brand Story. And while understanding and framing your Brand Story in the best way IS important, it's not the only story you should be sharing online... ...and, dare I say, it's not even the one that's going to build the most trust or lead to the most sales. It's the everyday stories you share on video, via email and on social media that make the biggest connection with your audience. These stories make your content 22x more likely to be remembered and I don't know about you, but I spend a lot of time and energy crafting content for my audience so I'd like for it to be remembered! However, so many entrepreneurs struggle to figure out what stories to share, understand the core pieces of a great story and how to effectively write for social media. And that's because… → It doesn't come naturally to many of us, myself included in the beginning. → So many people make storytelling so freaking complex when it doesn't have to be. But, I've spent the last 4 years studying, testing and getting results from sharing stories on social media. In fact, everything I write in my business is centered around story and I've built a 6-figure business by sharing stories online #nojoke So, let's just say I know a thing or two around this whole storytelling on social media thing. That's why today on the podcast, I'm sharing How to Build Trust Online and Make Sales With Story. Tune in to Episode 29, of the podcast to hear: The importance of story in branding and how to use it to break free from the algorithm and social media chains currently keeping your brand from its full potential. What makes a GREAT story online and why it's not really about you! How to start integrating storytelling into your content to build a deeper connection and trust with your audience. LET'S CONNECThttp://michelleknight.cohttp://instagram.com/michelleknightco http://facebook.com/brandmerrycoaching Branding + Marketing: http://brandmerry.com

In 2019, my family started the greatest adventure of our lives. We sold our home and pretty much everything we own to travel full time in a 36-foot travel trailer. A year later we are still doing it but it has looked a little different in 2020. Just like so many people, we started 2020 with the plans, but things quickly changed and we decided to spend some time back in our hometown in Missouri. Well, by August we were ready to get back out, and after having our trip to Europe canceled we wanted to make it epic. A little Summer to Remember! During the month of August we traveled to three National Parks, bought a kayak, and encountered quite a few animals along the way and today on the podcast I'm joined by my amazing husband to recap the entire thing for you. I receive questions every day about our travels, how we do it, how I work, where we go, where we stay and so much more. Today, I'm giving you a glimpse into our life and answering some of those top questions on the podcast. Tune in to Episode 28, of the podcast to hear: What we thought about the Grand Tetons and Yellowstone National Parks and our favorite parts. Our encounter with a BEAR - Ben tells the best story of this and you definitely want to hear how funny it was. Our crazy adventure to buy a kayak for our family off of Facebook Marketplace. LET'S CONNECThttp://michelleknight.cohttp://instagram.com/michelleknightco http://facebook.com/brandmerrycoaching Branding + Marketing: http://brandmerry.com

This past weekend I celebrated my 33rd birthday and every year on my birthday I reflect. I love to take this time to think about the past year of life and mentally prepare for the next. As you might already know, I am constantly thinking of ways to live more in alignment with the highest version of myself and every birthday serves as a great time to evaluate. I also take birthdays VERY seriously!  After losing so many loved ones, especially my brother at the young age of 19, I see the privilege of getting to celebrate another year of life. This year, I compiled a list of six life lessons I've learned over the past year of my life, mostly in 2020 because it's been quite the year, hasn't it? I hope this episode serves as a reminder that you're not alone in whatever you're working through in this season of life as well as inspires you to look at things differently. This is a beautiful climb, after all, not one said it was easy, but it IS beautiful Tune in to Episode 27, of the podcast to hear: How this year has challenged me in new ways when moving through my past grief and trauma. Why I believe perfectionism and specifically recovering from perfectionism is never over. What I plan to dedicate myself to in this next year of life! LET'S CONNECT http://michelleknight.cohttp://instagram.com/michelleknightco http://facebook.com/brandmerrycoaching Branding + Marketing: http://brandmerry.com

We all have a money story. I personally didn't even know what that meant until I started my business in 2016. Everyone was talking about this “money story” like it was something I needed to be super aware of. Turns out they were 100% correct, but it took me years to really do the deep work necessary to uncover my money story, own it for what it was and rewrite it. That's the thing about entrepreneurship it's a fast track in personal development. But entrepreneurs aside, our money stories, often what we are taught or pick up on at a young age shape our everyday decisions around money. It impacts our mindset in the grocery store. How we save or spend. How we view others and how we think others might view us. My friend Wei, from The Money Lab podcast, recently interviewed me on his show about my money story and how I've rewritten it to be one of Freedom over Security. This interview was too good not to share with you! So this week on The Beautiful Climb podcast I'm rereleasing this interview as a special episode all about money. Tune in to Episode 26, of the podcast to hear: How my money story is one of the most “typical” types of money experiences and how it affects us as we get older. The exact moments in my life when I began to question my existing money story and what I did about it in order to create the life I have today. How growing up with a desire for security changed into one created around freedom and how my money story has evolved over the years. LET'S CONNECT http://michelleknight.cohttp://instagram.com/michelleknightco http://facebook.com/brandmerrycoaching Branding + Marketing: http://brandmerry.com

Over the past three months, I've doubled my monthly cash revenue from consistent $10,000 cash months to $20,000 cash months.  And while strategy played a major role, it wasn't the only piece of the puzzle. What's interesting is that many of my strategies from $10k to $20k months didn't change, but my belief in them coming to fruition did. And now that I've seen, thanks to numbers, that this is consistent for my business and growing, I want to share them with you in today's episode. No matter if you're an entrepreneur or not, we all have beliefs around money and those beliefs are keeping us from making the money we desire. Maybe it's a fear of making more and being judged by others.  Maybe it's a feeling of not being worthy of having more than your parents or friends. Whatever it might be for you, and let me tell you there are a million money stories, the truth is you can do the work and create daily habits that rewrite it! And that's what we're all about here at The Beautiful Climb podcast, the choice to write our own ending, no matter what the story might be. Tune in to Episode 25, of the podcast to hear: Why mindset is necessary when wanting to increase your revenue or really do anything that feels impossible, scary or challenging...hello money! The 3 shifts I personally had to make in order to move to a place where I felt open to receiving and keeping the money I desired. 3 actionable steps you can take to begin doing the inner work on your money story and move towards your desired life of freedom (and yes that requires cash flow)! Next week, I have a special episode where I'm sharing a recent interview with my friend Wei. He had me on his podcast and we went deep and specific on my money story, the changes I've made and what I ultimately desire out of life. LET'S CONNECThttp://michelleknight.cohttp://instagram.com/michelleknightco http://facebook.com/brandmerrycoaching Branding + Marketing: http://brandmerry.com

Imposter Syndrome. Have I ever gotten over it as a business owner and mentor? Absolutely not. I believe that we never really get over Imposter Syndrome if we're always wanting to grow and elevate, because with each elevation comes that uncomfortable feeling of, “I don't belong here.” I've felt it and my guess is you have too. Despite all those feelings, I kept going and learned a few tricks along the way that keep me focused on my goal and showing up as my authentic self. So much of that growth happened during that first year in business and has shaped me in ways I'm so grateful for today. Today on the podcast we're wrapping up the First Year in Business tell-all with Part Two. I'm sharing those tough decisions like investing when we didn't have the money to do so, how I built and continue to build my community and how I got over imposter syndrome. Tune in to Episode 24, of the podcast to hear: What I did when I was hitting low parts of my business or receiving unexpected tax bills and refocusing on my commitment. How I worked out what needed to be done and in what order to scale my business to 6-figure cash. How I never got over feeling like an imposter and what I do when Imposter Syndrome hits. LET'S CONNECThttp://michelleknight.cohttp://instagram.com/michelleknightco http://facebook.com/brandmerrycoaching Branding + Marketing: http://brandmerry.com

You might have heard the story. Just one month after my son was born, I got the crazy idea to start my business. I'd never run an online business and creating one from scratch, with no niche at the time, was challenging to say the least. I spent the next 9 months building my online brand while working a 9 to 5, sometimes with a baby on my lap, on my back or sleeping next to me in bed. In 9 months I left my 9 to 5 and went on to celebrate a 6-figure business in a year. Was it easy? Far from it! I've never shied away from the hard work and the hustle that went into my first year in business and today on The Beautiful Climb podcast I'm answering your questions about that season of life! Tune in to Episode 23, of the podcast to hear: How I found my first clients and what I offered to make my first $10k and $10k month in business.  What really happened to make me believe I was ready to start my business and leave my 9 to 5 three months earlier than planned. My top tips for moms who are starting their business or navigating that first year in business with a baby. Tune into next week's episode where I'm sharing Part Two of My First Year in Business. LET'S CONNECThttp://michelleknight.cohttp://instagram.com/michelleknightco http://facebook.com/brandmerrycoaching Branding + Marketing: http://brandmerry.com

Boundaries. We know they are important, but we also know they take time and sometimes, depending on the people, can be very hard. But, when you're growing a business, wanting to care for yourself as a woman and get the support you deserve you absolutely need them. Setting boundaries in my personal life was essential when I started my business back in 2016. The interesting part of building my business and setting these boundaries early on allowed me to set boundaries for my self-care over the years and within my family (an unexpected perk). I became more aware of my boundaries with time, communicating with my husband and setting strong boundaries with Cal (my son) over the years. Today's episode is all about my top tips for setting those boundaries and is broken up into two parts: boundaries in business and boundaries in life. Whether you're an entrepreneur or not, you need healthy boundaries with your loved ones, your job and yourself. Yes, you need boundaries with yourself and in today's episode, I'm sharing how to set those boundaries. Think of it as a pep talk because everyone needs better boundaries. Tune in to Episode 22, of the podcast to hear: Why setting boundaries and asking for support is essential when it comes to tapping into your creativity. Ben and I's secret weapon when it comes to fully supporting one another in life and making sure we're not assuming the other person will just “take care of it!” How to set clear boundaries with yourself should be a top priority to make sure you're not carrying your frustration into your family and personal life.   LET'S CONNECThttp://michelleknight.cohttp://instagram.com/michelleknightco http://facebook.com/brandmerrycoaching Branding + Marketing: http://brandmerry.com

I started my business in 2016, just one month after my son was born. I spent the next 9 months building my business with a baby on my back, literally on live streams and calls and working a 9 to 5. I've been running this business just as long as I've been a mother. So, when I tell you being an entrepreneur with kiddos, is a different ball game that's because I live it. And the truth is the tips that work for an entrepreneur as a whole don't always work for moms who run a business. For instance, morning routines...can I get an Amen on this one. I don't know about you, but I don't have 2 hours to meditate every morning I've got a kiddo to feed and entertain. But, I know building your dream business and raising a babe is possible, I'm living it daily, and today on the podcast I'm sharing my Top Tips for Moms in Business! If you're a female entrepreneur with kids, expecting, or plan to add a kiddo or two to the mix of your business, this episode is for you! I'm sharing all my secrets and giving some support to the women who wonder if it's even possible to make it work..it is and I know you can do it too! LET'S CONNECT http://michelleknight.co http://instagram.com/michelleknightco http://facebook.com/brandmerrycoaching Branding + Marketing: http://brandmerry.com

My husband Ben and I have never been one's to get too creative with our date night. We don't have a specific day of the week when we make them happen. We're cool with a movie and popcorn night, but going out to restaurants, breweries and wineries definitely top the list. Since we travel full time this is one of our favorite thing to do while exploring new cities, but quarantine definitely put a little damper on not only our travels but also date night. We found ourselves in a rut, doing the same thing every single night and wanting to spice it up! So, we got creative! We started having our own wine tasting every weekend and it's hands down been one of the most fun and simple activities we've done as a couple. It's no secret we love wine and today on the podcast I'm sharing what we're doing and why to reconnect as a couple, get a little alone time and make the most of this “not so ideal” situation. We'd love for you to join us so after listening to this week's podcast, share your #winenight on social media and tag @michelleknightco so we can see what you're drinking. BTW, if you're not into wine, I'm sharing an alternative on the podcast that aligns with the same “adventure” mindset we like to bring to our date nights. LET'S CONNECThttp://michelleknight.cohttp://instagram.com/michelleknightco http://facebook.com/brandmerrycoaching Branding + Marketing: http://brandmerry.com

We've had a deep couple of weeks on The Beautiful Climb podcast, heck 2020 has been DEEP! Over the past month, we've chatted about grief, creating habits, facing the past, removing labels and taking back control to write our future. So, I thought we'd do something a little more fun this week to give our heads, hearts and souls a break. You submitted questions on Instagram and via email and I am answering them in this week's episode. It's the first #AMA or Ask Me Anything episode and I loved every second of it, I hope you do too. Tune in to this Ask Me Anything episode to hear me chat about: What running a business from the road has been like and how life with a “retired” husband has been! How and why we've removed expectations of owning a house, sending Cal to school and more to create a life on our terms. How we still maintain connection and relationships while on the road. You all love questions about travel and Ben, I mean I think you guys really just love Ben so I've taken note and next week I'm sharing a special Date Night episode...see you then! LET'S CONNECThttp://michelleknight.cohttp://instagram.com/michelleknightco http://facebook.com/brandmerrycoaching Branding + Marketing: http://brandmerry.com

Welcome to the final part of the Storytelling Series. Over the past three weeks, I've shared the exact practice that has allowed me to strip away the bullshit and create a life on my terms. It's not easy, I get that, but change isn't just going to happen you have to take action. This week on The Beautiful Climb podcast I'm sharing the final step in the 3-part process. In this stage, we will begin the process of writing your own ending and making lasting change. There's one final thing we have to do and that's to create our own rules. After we've stripped away old labels and expectations of who we believe we should be, we have the space to redefine who we are, how we act, how we show up in the world and what we want. And we can begin to do that unapologetically, knowing we are 100% worth it. I can't wait for you to dive into this episode. Tune in to Episode 18, of the podcast to hear: How our past labels and expectations are affecting us in all areas of our lives, from how we dress to how we talk. Why this next step is hard and people won't like the changes you're wanting to make...do it anyway! The final action step to take in order to create a life on your terms in alignment with your bigger vision. LET'S CONNECThttp://michelleknight.cohttp://instagram.com/michelleknightco http://facebook.com/brandmerrycoaching Branding + Marketing: http://brandmerry.com

Creating a life on your terms and ultimately writing your own ending is about stepping into the author's seat of your life. You're writing your life story, after all, but so many people allow others to do the writing for them. This happens because of outside influences, labels and expectations that have been put on us, mostly at a young age, that we then begin to take on as our own and our truth. But, there has to come a time when we look at these labels and ask ourselves, “Are these serving me? Are these in alignment with who I want to be and life I want to create?” Today on the podcast, we're continuing the Story Work series with part two. Last week, in episode 16, we dove into this practice and started with identifying past chapters. This week, we're moving into the present by identifying labels and expectations that no longer serve us on our journey to write our own ending. The reality is what we decide today impacts our story moving forward, yet so many of us, myself included years ago, is living a life that is no longer in alignment with our true selves. Today, on the podcast I'm sharing my own label around perfectionism and encouraging you to identify your own through this practice. Tune in to Episode 17, of the podcast to hear: How labels and expectations can be preventing us in creating a life of freedom. Why it's essential that we identify, name and begin the process of stripping away these labels if we want to step into the author's seat of our lives. How our true selves have been trying to come through for years, whether we recognize it or not, and using my own journey as an example. Tune into next week's episode where I'm sharing part three of the Story Work series all about Expectations. LET'S CONNECT http://michelleknight.cohttp://instagram.com/michelleknightco http://facebook.com/brandmerrycoaching Branding + Marketing: http://brandmerry.com

The birth of my son four years ago changed my life in so many ways. Not only did I become a mother.Not only did I start my own business. But, I started to look at the way I was living and make intentional decisions to heal my past and begin to write my own ending. This process started as I worked on building my personal brand in my business. After months of building what I thought was an authentic brand, I found myself out of alignment and uninspired with my vision. I realized in that moment that so much of who I thought I was had been based on what had happened in my past, labels that had been placed on me at a young age and expectations I had been holding on to that no longer served me. This began my journey with story work and over the past four years, I've used this model to not only change my life but to also support women in doing the same through coaching and workshops. Today on the podcast, I'm kicking off the first of a three-part series on Story Work. Tune in to Episode 16, of the podcast to hear: The importance of owning our past chapters in order to create a life on our terms and write our own ending. The exercise I have used with my clients to begin the process of looking at past chapters as a learning experience and tool for moving forward. How owning your story can help you create the impact you desire in the world. Tune into next week's episode where I'm sharing part two of the Story Work series all about Labels.LET'S CONNECThttp://michelleknight.cohttp://instagram.com/michelleknightco http://facebook.com/brandmerrycoaching

My husband and I have been married for eight years and together for eleven. Over the years we've made it a top priority to work on our marriage and communication. We've read books, listened to podcasts and read articles to support us in this vision. Yet, despite all of the outside advice, which has been awesome, we've discovered a little way of connecting and communicating that people just don't talk about. The concept of dreaming together and creating a shared vision. It's something we love to do together and find ourselves coming together, usually over a bottle of wine, quite frequently. Today, on this episode of The Beautiful Climb podcast we're sharing this practice with you! Tune in to Episode 15, of the podcast, to hear all the details about: Some of our crazy dreams that started as a simple conversation over wine and morphed into the life we have today (hint: we're also sharing so you can do the same in your own life). What we believe contributes to a shared vision and even if you don't consider yourself a “dreamer” how you can get started today. The power of a shared vision and how it's made us achieve our goals faster than we ever could have imagined. We hope this episode inspires you to start thinking more about the vision you want to create for your life and gives you the tools to ignite a deep passion with your loved ones.   LET'S CONNECThttp://michelleknight.cohttp://instagram.com/michelleknightco http://facebook.com/brandmerrycoaching Branding + Marketing: http://brandmerry.com

Atomic Habits came to me at just the right time, as I had been struggling to find my footing after selling our home and choosing to travel full-time. But, what I discovered inside the work of James Clear gave me a deeper understanding of the person I wanted to be - yes it's that good! Today, on the podcast I'm sharing my biggest takeaways from Atomic Habits and the actions I've implemented over the past year. Listen in to Episode 14 of the podcast to learn more about... The power of small daily actions for greater change, not just this year but forever. The type of habits I needed to create in order to see shifts and changes in my life, even though I've always been goal-driven. Why habits are necessary not just to achieve our goals but to shift our identity. Don't forget to grab your copy of Atomic Habits by James Clear so you can dive into all of the goodness and start implementing these habits and actionable changes in your own life. LET'S CONNECT http://michelleknight.co http://instagram.com/michelleknightco http://facebook.com/brandmerrycoaching Branding + Marketing: http://brandmerry.com

We're rounding out May and Maternal Mental Health Month with an episode on Motherhood. I was recently interviewed by my friends Tiffany and Kelly at the Wine and Gyn podcast on Finding Your Voice in Motherhood and it was so good, I needed to share it with you. So much of my journey as a mother has been centered around personal development. After the birth of my son Cal, which you can hear all about in Episode 10, I set out on a journey to create a life on my terms.  This has continued and played such a vital role in finding my voice as a mother, building a life in alignment with my family and making decisions that are sometimes not accepted by others but in my family's best interest. It's one of my favorite interviews and I'm so excited to share it with you today. On the podcast, I'm sharing... How I've listened to my inner voice as a mother and together with my husband made questions that bettered our family dynamic. How my husband and I use the power of communication to openly share our views and beliefs with our family and with each other in a respectful way. And how to look at past beliefs and stories around motherhood and choose to write your own definition of motherhood. LET'S CONNECT michelleknight.co instagram.com/michelleknightco Branding and Business: brandmerry.com

We're continuing the conversation of Maternal Mental Health with the FIRST interview on The Beautiful Climb podcast.  I was joined by my friends Tiffany Alblinger and Kelly Pappas from Beautiful One Midwifery in San Diego to talk about Postpartum Care. We talk all things poop, diapers, bleeding to give you a real look inside what you might experience after giving birth. Every story is different and it's our mission with this episode to share what you might expect, to remove the stigma around the changes with your body and mind and offer support. And, the ladies have a special gift for new moms in their Postpartum Planning Worksheet which you can grab here. On the podcast, we're talking about... The 4th trimester and overlooked aspect of transitioning into motherhood and how to give yourself grace during this healing time. What you can do to prepare for the postpartum experience and the changes that are going to happen with your body and mind. The humility in asking for support and no longer feeling shame about not having it all together in a short amount of time. Tiffany and Kelly not only serve soon-to-be mothers in San Diego with their practice at Beautiful One Midwifery but also give us weekly goodness through their podcast Wine and Gyn. It's one of my favorites and a must-listen for women. Tune into the Wine and Gyn podcast here. Connect with Tiffany and Kelly:Beautiful One Midwifery in San Diego -beautifulonemidwiferysandiego.com/ Tiffany and Kelly on Instagram - instagram.com/beautifulonemidwifery/ Wine and Gyn on Instagram - instagram.com/wine_and_gyn/ Listen to Wine and Gyn - beautifulonemidwiferysandiego.com/listen Grab the Postpartum Planning Worksheet - https://mailchi.mp/4a7eb906ed69/postpartumplan ---- LET'S CONNECT: http://michelleknight.co Instagram - http://instagram.com/michelleknightco Branding and Marketing - http://brandmerry.com  

I didn't know it then, but I experienced postpartum depression that lasted months after my son was born. I felt so prepared for the birth of my son and labor, although that didn't go as planned, and had never even thought about how my body and mind would change postpartum. I was not only ill-equipped to deal with this period of my life but felt so much shame and guilt around my feelings that I didn't know how to express them. I sat in this state for months before I even shared my feelings with my husband. It's my purpose with this podcast to share my story with you to remove the stigma around asking for help as a mother and to let women know they are not alone, even if their experience doesn't look “textbook”. On the podcast, I'm sharing... What I wish I knew about postpartum emotions and support BEFORE giving birth. Why I felt so alone during my postpartum experience, despite having amazing support. How I grew as a woman while navigating motherhood for the first time. As you listen to this episode, please think of the women in your life you'd like to share this story and your own with. I believe in the power of sharing our stories to help more and more women feel less alone in their beautiful climb. “I had an idea of what a mother should look like and that wasn't my story, so despite having an amazing support system, I didn't know how to tell them that on the inside I was breaking apart.” - mk --- LET'S CONNECT http://michelleknight.co Instagram: http://instagram.com/michelleknightco Brand and Marketing Support: http://brandmerry.com  

**This is part of a series I'm doing for Maternal Mental Health Month. Today on the podcast, I'm sharing my entire birth experience for the first time and inviting you into my story and the lessons I learned not about labor, but about life. I believe that we are given moments and opportunities to shift. Sometimes these come in moments, days, weeks or in my case over 80 hours. The decisions I made through my labor and my choice to trust in myself and my journey shaped my life over the last 5 years. I would not be where I am today without this experience even though it was one of the hardest things I've ever done. It tested me at every single level. Tune in to listen to the lessons I learned and how they can support you in your own Beautiful Climb. ----- Let's Connect: http://michelleknight.co Instagram: http://instagram.com/michelleknightco Free Download for Moms: http://brandmerry.com/mom Branding and Business Tips: http://brandmerry.com    

In 2009, I lost my brother to cancer. He battled cancer for a little over a year. This loss was not my first experience with grief, but it was the one that impacted my life the most. Out of the grieving process, the sadness, heartache and physical pain I found meaning. Recently, I listened to a beautiful and impactful podcast with Brene Brown and David Kessler on Grief and Finding Meaning. It inspired me to share my own story with grief and how I've found meaning in the grieving process for the first time ever on the podcast. This episode is very personal to me, but shares how my entire life has changed and why I believe that to be so. The truth is whether you've lost someone or not, we have all experienced grief and many of us are moving through it now. Grief doesn't need to be ending, there can be more and today on the podcast I'm sharing what that is. LET'S CONNECT Learn more at http://michelleknight.co/podcast Instagram: http://instagram.com/michelleknightco Facebook: http://facebook.com/brandmerrycoaching Brandmerry - Branding and Marketing http://brandmerry.com

My mindset journey has been a messy one, can you relate? Mindset has been an ongoing journey for me as a mother and entrepreneur. From the beginning, I've struggled.  At first, it was due to the fact that I was working a 9 to 5 and going through my postpartum experience. Then when I left my 9 to 5, it was relying on my business to bring in money to you know pay the bills. And even in the past year, it's been about adjusting to a new way of living (traveling full time and running my business). Although it's felt like FOREVER to get here, I'm proud of what I've discovered, not only about myself but about resiliency. Because without a resilient mindset life can really throw you off your horse. Today, I'm sharing... My daily mindset routine that contributes to my resilient mindset no matter what life may throw my way How to recognize and honor the seasons in your life so you can become more productive, creative and successful The #1 excuse I see women using (hint: it has to do with time)! LET'S CONNECT Learn more at http://michelleknight.co/podcast Instagram: http://instagram.com/michelleknightco Facebook: http://facebook.com/brandmerrycoaching Brandmerry - Branding and Marketing http://brandmerry.com Show Notes: https://michelleknight.co/mindset-beautiful-climb

So often we talk about seeking time, financial and location freedom. In my brand, it's part of my marketing strategy and messaging, but there is one part of freedom that we don't talk about enough as women. And that is the freedom of self. When is the last time you thought about the way that you were living day to day? When's the last time that you sat down and you said... What did I do today that felt damn good, and made me happy and brought joy to my life and made me feel loved? And what are the things that I did today that didn't make me happy that aren't in alignment with how I want to be living?  This freedom to be ourselves and to create a life on our terms is the fundamental principle of this entire podcast.  And today, on the podcast I'm having an intimate conversation around wanting more out of life and demanding those changes no matter how “great” your life might be right now. In today's episode, I'm chatting about... The shame we experience as women when we want more, and how it keeps so many women from living a life of more. The truth about pissing people off by going after your dreams. The importance of wanting more and going for more in order to make the biggest impact in other people's lives. LET'S CONNECT Learn more at http://michelleknight.co/podcast Instagram: http://instagram.com/michelleknightco Facebook: http://facebook.com/brandmerrycoaching Brandmerry - Branding and Marketing:  http://brandmerry.com

Do you suddenly find yourself working from home with your kids? Today on the podcast I'm sharing my top tips for keeping your kiddos entertained and balancing it all. I'm pulling from four years of experience working side by side my son as he went from baby to toddler and my business from 0 to multiple 6-figures. In today's episode, I share... ...The #1 mindset to carry into your day to day that will save you wasted time and your sanity ...How to organize your schedule in a way that serves all parties involved (i.e. you get work done and the kids aren't just watching tv for 9 hours) ...My productivity hacks that you can implement and teach your kids for more time efficiency overall LET'S CONNECT Learn more at http://michelleknight.co/podcast Instagram: http://instagram.com/michelleknightco Facebook: http://facebook.com/brandmerrycoaching Brandmerry - Branding and Marketing:  http://brandmerry.com

Today on the podcast my husband Ben and I chat about communication when you spend every single day together. That's right we're both home 24/7 (unless I'm at the grocery store), so we thought we'd share what's worked and what hasn't with those of you that find yourself in a similar situation due to recent events. Listen in to hear... How we manage our schedules and the single thing we do every night that gets us on the same page. How we came to discover the best way to communicate with each other in a way that honors our personalities and boundaries. How to have difficult conversations with your spouse, honestly this is the bulk of it! LET'S CONNECT Learn more at http://michelleknight.co/podcast Instagram: http://instagram.com/michelleknightco Facebook: http://facebook.com/brandmerrycoaching Brandmerry - Branding and Marketing: http://brandmerry.com

“I don't have enough time!” This used to be a regular phrase in my vocabulary and although I didn't realize it at the time, it was hurting my overall productivity. Yes, you guessed it, your mindset impacts your productivity. Once I switched my mindset + implemented some cool a$$ strategies, I found myself making time work for me. In today's episode, we're addressing the hottest topic today...TIME and how we can make time a top priority with mindset shifts and time management tools. LET'S CONNECT Learn more at http://michelleknight.co/podcast Instagram: http://instagram.com/michelleknightco Facebook: http://facebook.com/brandmerrycoaching Brandmerry - Branding and Marketing: http://brandmerry.com

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to ask for more? To give it all up and start again? In 2019, my family sold our home, my husband left his job and we got rid of 80% of our belongings so we could travel full time.  In today's episode, I'm not only sharing the journey that led us to make this massive decision but what the past year has taught us about communication and purpose. Whether you've also been thinking about traveling or just looking to make a change, this episode will encourage you to think bigger. My goal is to motivate you to ask for more!  Sometimes we can get so comfortable in our story and life as good enough. I hope to inspire you to ask for more and go for great! Today, I'm sharing... The moment we decided to sell everything (or give it away) in order to start over. The biggest lessons we've learned over the past year in starting our lives over on the road. How we've handled the biggest obstacles and navigated through them with strong communication and vulnerability to grow as a family. LET'S CONNECT Learn more at http://michelleknight.co/podcast Instagram: http://instagram.com/michelleknightco Facebook: http://facebook.com/brandmerrycoaching Brandmerry - Branding and Marketing http://brandmerry.com

The purpose of this podcast and my mission has always been to share my story and inspire others. Today's episode does just that with my good friends Jill and Nick from The Simplified Khaos Podcast. When they approached me about sharing my story with their audience, I couldn't refuse. Not to mention, they were going to fly to Saint Louis, MO (my hometown) to do it! After we hit stop, on a super intimate and fun conversation, I knew I wanted to share it with you. For the first time, I was able to go deep into my full story sharing what it was like growing up as a perfectionist and feeling like everyone knew what was right for my life. To trauma of losing my brother to cancer and the grieving process, the birth of my son and the decision that changed our whole life. It's inspirational and actionable and I hope you enjoy it. Today, I'm sharing... The journey that led to me leaving my 9 to 5 to build my own business and having the freedom to travel. How I've processed my trauma and used the loss of my brother to motivate me to live a life on my terms The 3 things I focus on every single day to make sure I'm not only productive but also doing things that make me truly happy. Thanks to Jill and Nick of The Simplified Khaos for sharing this episode. LET'S CONNECTLearn more at http://michelleknight.co/podcast Instagram:http://instagram.com/michelleknightco Facebook:http://facebook.com/brandmerrycoaching Brandmerry - Branding and Marketinghttp://brandmerry.com

I know you saw that title and thought for a quick second that you should just skip this one. We'll we're starting strong over here with the first episode of The Beautiful Climb podcast pulling back the curtain ALL THE WAY to talk about the one area I've struggled most...vulnerability. It's not easy to admit that I didn't truly learn and embrace vulnerability until I was 28 years old and I learned really quickly that it was not easy. In today's episode, I'm getting vulnerable (oh the irony) and sharing the moment during my son's birth when my entire world and way of thinking changed. I know that vulnerability can be a touchy subject, but as my girl, Brene Brown says, “Vulnerability is not winning or losing; it's having the courage to show up and be seen when we have no control over the outcome.” And as someone who used to try and control every single situation, let's be honest I'm still working on it, this quote hits me deep. If it resonated with you/ smacked you in the face a little then today's episode is for you! Today, I'm chatting... About the moment in my labor when I realized I couldn't hold on any longer (it was after 70 hours)! What I've come to learn vulnerability truly is and how much life has improved since embracing it. Why the lack of vulnerability is keeping us from truly connecting with others LET'S CONNECT Learn more at http://michelleknight.co/podcast Instagram: http://instagram.com/michelleknightco Facebook: http://facebook.com/brandmerrycoaching Brandmerry - Branding and Marketing http://brandmerry.com  

Welcome to The Beautiful Climb, where we know life is a climb. It's not always easy, there are a lot of ups and downs and unexpected challenges that come along the way. However, we know that with perseverance and determination we can navigate our way through and create a life on OUR terms.  I'm Michelle Knight, mother, wife, world traveler and storyteller. I'll be talking about everything surrounding perfectionism, weeding out the bullshit and navigating outside and internal expectations so you can enjoy your journey to the top. Eyes ahead One foot in front of the other Let's do it. This is the Beautiful Climb. LET'S CONNECT Learn more at http://michelleknight.co/podcast Instagram: http://instagram.com/michelleknightco Facebook: http://facebook.com/brandmerrycoaching Brandmerry - Branding and Marketing http://brandmerry.com