The Bee Podcast

Rachel Spurgeon joins us to talk about the struggle to balance life and motherhood. It can be so very difficult to justify making time to spend on ourselves, but it's so important. Rachel shares how her journey to finding contentment and happiness was not marked by those around her, but by the investment she made in her self.   Connect with Rachel on Insta: @rlspurgeon6 Connect with Kami on Insta: @kamimillikin, @the.bee.podcast

Women often talk about the beautiful experience of childbirth, but we so rarely talk about the scariness of it. Kristin Wyngarden joins us today sharing her story on how the beautiful birth experience with her second son was cut from her and almost took her life...   Connect with Kristin on Instagram: @kristinwyngarden Connect with Kami on Instagram: @kamimillikin, @the.bee.podcast

Today, we have the incredible opportunity to sit down with Susan Wetrich. Susan is the mother of two beautiful girls, both adopted internationally. As a single woman in her 30's she knew she wanted to start her family, and that's exactly what she did. Now, after over 20 years, Susan shares the process of the international adoption of her two daughters, Sarah and Anna and the beautiful life they have created!   Connect with Kami Instagram: @kamimillikin, @the.bee.podcast

According to the CDC, breast cancer continues to be among the most common forms of cancer reported. Unfortunately, this type of cancer has a high death rate associated with it. Today, we hear from Abby Leonard who survived her diagnosis of breast cancer. Abby shares with us her unique perspective on her diagnosis and prognosis today. Listen in to her story of beating breast cancer.

Erika Sieren joins us today on The Bee. She is just a beautiful person inside and out. In this episode, we get the chance to sit down with her and talk about her experience as a mother of a child with autism. No journey in life is easy. But some journeys come a bit more unexpected than others. Listen in as she shares her life, the ins and out, unexpected struggles and victories in raising her incredible son, Ryder.

Tammy Proenneke, an elementary school secretary, youth group leader, and God fearing woman has opened her home to multiple children over the years as a foster parent and adoptive mother. Over time, she and her husband, Jon, adopted two young boys. With all her heart, she provided the best, most stable and love filled environment for her children. As the years progressed, her boys grew up and left the home. With all of the hope and heartache she had experienced with fostering and adoption, nothing could have prepared her heart for the news that her son had been murdered. This is Tammy's story of love, loss, and hope.   Connect with Kami: Instagram:@kamimillikin @the.bee.podcast

This week, we sit down with Holly Van De Kieft. At the most vulnerable times, Holly's life took sharp, unexpected turns. As she tried to make sense of it all, the lessons she learned made her who she is today. Listen in as Holly shares her experience with loving and losing two men in her life to different fights.   Connect with Kami: Insta: @kamimillikin, @the.bee.podcast

On April 9, our youngest child turns one! Although I'm so excited to celebrate this milestone. It's made me reflect on all the things that this past year included. A year ago, I found out that I wouldn't ever set foot in my classroom to teach the OHS graduating class of 2024 ever again. And then at the same time, I gave birth to our third child. So many complex emotions in such a short amount of time. As we know, there would be no shortage of change taking place in the future. It was an absolutely terrifying time. This episode was recorded and broadcast as a Facebook Live in our subscription group, called The Hive. Since Clark turns one this week, I thought it was a perfect time to air this solo pod of me sharing my heart as a teacher and mother of three.   Connect with Kami on Instagram: @kamimillikin @the.bee.podcast

As a kid, I always dreamed about doing traveling, backpacking, meeting new people, and having a family. Audrey has checked all of these boxes and more! I am so excited for you guys to hear all the adventures that this girl has taken--a true testament to going with the flow and trying new things! It's really paid off for her. Listen in as Audrey shares her story, thus far.

Today, Kinzy Gillespie joins us and shares the loss of two of her closest and best friends: Her big sister and her little brother. As a senior in High School, Kinzy's brother Trent was killed in a fatal car accident that shook the city of Ottumwa to it's core. Then, as an adult, she experienced an all too familiar feeling when the cancer her older sister, Jenny, beat as child returned. Today, Kinzy not only shares the events that altered her life, she shares her heart and the pieces of it she was left to pick up after it had been shattered. Des Moines Moms Blog link: https://desmoines.momcollective.com/author/kinzygillespie/ Connect with Kinzy: Instagram- @kinzygillespie Connect with Kami Instagram- @kamimillikin, @the.bee.podcast

Sami Carter shares her heart on foster parenting and the process of adoption. When Sami and her husband began the process of fostering, she hadn't prepared her heart to adopt. There was something else in the works! Listen to Sami's sweet story of their road to adoption.   Connect with Sami on Instagram: @mrssamicarter Connect with Kami on Instagram: @thebeepodcast , @kamimillikin

Brittni Ummel shares with us her story of depression slowly sinking in, the suicidal thoughts that consumed her, the realization of addiction creeping in, and the desire to break free. Brittni developed an understanding of Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) and it truly changed her life. Honing in on skills that she developed as a teen, Brittni breaks free from the overwhelming anxiety, depression and addiction and finds her redemption.   Connect with Brittni on Instagram @byogaconnection, www.byogaconnection.com, https://youtube.com/channel/UCT6GhTZbWO8gA-YDjtX4YlA Connect with Kami on Instagram @kamimillikin, @thebeepodcast

In today's episode, we get an inside look at a 911 dispatcher's life. Jennifer Findley shares a conversation about the ins and outs of dispatching in small town Iowa.

We're back with season two and what better way to bring in the new season than with a real life miracle. Today Cassie Malone shares her story of excitement, loss, grief and disbelief. Listen in to discover the real life miracle that is Cassie's son. The Hive Membership Link: https://bit.ly/2ShPu97Connect with KamiInstagram: @the.bee.podcastFacebook: The Bee PodcastEmail: thebeepodcast@gmail.com

As season one draws to a close on this Christmas season Avery Buell joins us to share her story of finding faith. Growing up in the church taking time for God seemed to be something she did out of habit, not because she felt a true connection. As Avery became a young adult she made the change from obligation to desire in finding her faith and becoming closer to God. Avery Buell Instagram Handle: @AveryMaree The Hive Membership Link: https://bit.ly/2ShPu97Connect with KamiInstagram: @the.bee.podcastFacebook: The Bee PodcastEmail: thebeepodcast@gmail.com

Hilarie LaPoint is a former high school and college athlete, current mom, teacher, wife and friend. After her career in sports ended Hilarie struggled to find her balance with nutrition and fitness. Finally, Hilarie found her best version of health in training for a marathon and working to earn her best time. Fueling her body for health, she has built a routine that works in her life and makes her feel the best she's ever felt. Hilarie LaPoint, Insta Handle: @hilarielapointThe Hive Membership Link: https://bit.ly/2ShPu97Connect with KamiInstagram: @the.bee.podcastFacebook: The Bee PodcastEmail: thebeepodcast@gmail.com

Katy Reed always knew that she wanted to explore the world but pushed the desire away growing up a small town Iowa girl. However, fate had a different plan for Katy and she met the love of her life an ocean away. Today she's sharing her story of finding love in the United Kingdom and leaving the United States to take her wedding vows. The Hive Membership Link: https://bit.ly/2ShPu97Connect with KamiInstagram: @the.bee.podcastFacebook: The Bee PodcastEmail: thebeepodcast@gmail.com

Sydney Palen joins us today to share her story as a young divorced mother of two. From the early days of falling in love, getting married and having her two children, to the difficult and heart breaking decision to get a divorce, Sydney is a light in the darkness of navigating life through and after divorce. Her journey to finding and loving herself is sure to uplift and inspire any woman struggling through a similar situation.   The Hive Membership Link: https://bit.ly/2ShPu97 Connect with Kami Instagram: @the.bee.podcast Facebook: The Bee Podcast Email: thebeepodcast@gmail.com

Destiny Merrill joins us today to share her journey as a pipeline wife. From the exciting and new experiences to the loneliness that life on the road can bring Destiny's faith, positive attitude and readiness to embrace change will leave you encouraged and hopeful for all the ups and downs life has in store. The Hive Membership Link: https://bit.ly/2ShPu97Connect with KamiInstagram: @the.bee.podcastFacebook: The Bee PodcastEmail: thebeepodcast@gmail.com

Mother of two, Megan Jones joins us today to share her journey through postpartum depression. She discusses how life looked for her while struggling with PPD, the help she sought in working through it and how she ultimately found that giving herself grace made all the difference. The Hive Membership Link: https://bit.ly/2ShPu97 Connect with Megan Instagram: adventures_of_megan_jones Connect with KamiInstagram: @the.bee.podcastFacebook: The Bee PodcastEmail: thebeepodcast@gmail.com

Lisa Bishop joins us today to share her tragic story of losing her husband and father of her 3 children unexpectedly. Lisa's journey of loss, healing and now the hope she has in her family's future is inspiring and sure to touch your heart. The Hive Membership Link: https://bit.ly/2ShPu97Connect with KamiInstagram: @the.bee.podcastFacebook: The Bee PodcastEmail: thebeepodcast@gmail.com

In honor of All Hallow's Eve Emily, Mandy and myself are sharing our supernatural experiences with you! Listen in for some other worldly tales to celebrate your favorite spooky holiday!The Hive Membership Link: https://bit.ly/2ShPu97 Connect with Emily:Emily's Insta handle: @emilybethbittner Connect with Mandy:Mandy's Insta handle: manidesignsbmandyConnect with Kami:Instagram: @the.bee.podcastFacebook: The Bee PodcastEmail: thebeepodcast@gmail.com

Presley Caldwell joins us today to share a personal experience that changed her life forever. Presley's pregnant sister, Lisa was shot and killed in her home by her husband. Her story is one of loss, grief, confusion, anger and ultimately justice. Presley's family endured a tragic and life altering event, but they hope to help others by sharing their story. The Hive Membership Link: https://bit.ly/2ShPu97Connect with KamiInstagram: @the.bee.podcastFacebook: The Bee PodcastEmail: thebeepodcast@gmail.com

Becky Albertson joins us in this episode to share her journey through relationship struggles, becoming a parent, moving to Iowa and coming to the realization that she must always trust the process and plan that God has laid out for her. Becky opens up about her life and the struggles and disappointments she endured, and how all of the things that didn't seem to make sense came full circle when she allowed herself to be led. The Hive Membership Link: https://bit.ly/2ShPu97 Connect with BeckyBecky's Insta Handle: @freshwordlettering Connect with Kami Instagram: @the.bee.podcast Facebook: The Bee Podcast Email: thebeepodcast@gmail.com

Krystal Boyd's life was affected by someone she was closest with who suffered from mental illness. Left untreated mental illness can negatively affect not only those suffering from it but also their relationships with others. Krystal joins us to share her experience as a child growing up under toxic parenting. Krystal felt loved and supported as a child but began to question her upbringing as she grew, eventually finding the courage to step out from under the manipulation. The Hive Membership: https://bit.ly/2ShPu97 Book Recommendation: Overcoming Toxic Parenting: How to Be a GOOD PARENT When Yours Wasn't by Rick Johnson Connect with KrystalKrystal's Insta: @coachwithkrysConnect with KamiInstagram: @the.bee.podcastFacebook: The Bee PodcastEmail: thebeepodcast@gmail.com

Former college athlete Chelsea Kaller joins us today to share how against all the odds she left her corporate job and dove head first into the world of online health and fitness coaching. Chelsea shares how she pushed through the fear, limiting beliefs, and negative self talk to pursue her dream and begin her entrepreneurial journey. Chelsea's positive outlook and fresh view on chasing your passions are sure to inspire you to find the courage to follow your dreams as well. The Hive Membership: https://bit.ly/2ShPu97Connect with ChelseaInstagram: @chelseakaller, @damnhappydamnhealthyFree Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/findingbalancewithchelseaFree 7 Day Trial inside her Fitness Membership: https://www.damnhappydamnhealthy.com/7DAYSFREE?fbclid=IwAR1oVWYlJA8FIDobkPxgOed6vNVCm9LTI_u6shE395JHmAqEMB6qtvc7h7s

Jessica Schuldt joins us to share her difficult journey during pregnancy and the resulting NICU stay for her daughter Harper, who was born at 25 weeks gestation. Jessica relives the ups and the downss and how this journey shaped her as a mother and a person.   The struggles her family endured during their stay in the NICU are so real for many families in similar positions. Jessica shares their story in hopes that other families, and mothers know they are not alone, and are able to find healing. Connect with JessicaVenmo: @jessischuldt ---- any donations go to the NICU in Iowa City, Iowa. Instagram: jessischuldtConnect with KamiInstagram: @the.bee.podcastFacebook: The Bee PodcastEmail: thebeepodcast@gmail.com

Jessica Mckearney joins us today to share her family's heart wrenching story of childhood cancer. Jessica describes herself as a type A personality, having planned most of her life in advance she was in no way prepared for the awful realization that her toddler son, Hudson had leukemia. Jessica and her family feel that their circumstances were no coincidence and believe that they were meant to share their story, and create lasting and positive change for others experiencing similar situations.Please consider donating to the Mckearney family as they continue to fight for Hudson's life. CaringBridge:A CaringBridge Site was created for Hudson. It‘s a caring social network to help people stay connected with family and friends during a health event.Visit Hudson's Site: https://caringbridge.org/visit/hudsonmckearneySite Name: hudsonmckearneyVenmo:Kyle-mckearney-1GoFundMe:https://www.gofundme.com/f/s8pbxj-hudson-strong?utm_source=customer&utm_medium=copy_link-tip&utm_campaign=p_cp+share-sheetHudson amazon wish list:https://www.amazon.com/baby-reg/22KWMQKKBLJOHMcKearney Residence for cards:11 Bradley court Eldridge Iowa 52748Iowa wave necklace by Jennifer Kelly (Klyn) with 100% of the proceeds going to University Of Iowa Children's Hospital in honor of Hudson:https://www.etsy.com/jakkofalltrades/listing/833146694/iowa-wave-childhood-cancer-awareness?utm_source=Facebook&utm_medium=ListingManager&utm_campaign=Share&utm_term=so.lmsm&share_time=1596128427587Hudson's Fight Shirt Open through September 15, 2020https://www.acegraphics.shop/

Alesha Brownlee joins us to share the second part of her story over a topic that is unfortunately, not uncommon, domestic abuse. In this episode Alesha exposes her most intimate experiences and how she found the strength to leave. If you haven't already, go back and listen to last week's episode to hear part 1. This episode does contain sensitive information and language not suitable for children. Resources:https://www.thehotline.org/Connect with KamiInstagram: @the.bee.podcastFacebook: The Bee PodcastEmail: thebeepodcast@gmail.com

Alesha Brownlee joins us to share her story over a topic that is unfortunately, not uncommon, domestic abuse. In this episode Alesha exposes her most intimate experiences and how she found the strength to leave. This episode does contain sensitive information and language not suitable for children. Resources:https://www.thehotline.org/Connect with KamiInstagram: @the.bee.podcastFacebook: The Bee PodcastEmail: thebeepodcast@gmail.com

Today, you'll get to meet Summer Lisk, an incredible woman who has dedicated her life in building up women. Not only is she strong, physically, she has endured hardships that have sharpened her emotional and mental health. In this episode, Summer discusses her life during one of the darkest times while battling anorexia. So often women are bombarded with fad diets and unrealistic body image expectations. During this lonely time, Her self worth had been shattered, she felt isolated, and was in need of sincere connection. Please listen as she shares how she rediscovered herself, her courage, and her value. Join me in listening to Summer's wonderful story on how mindset is truly a game-changer. Connect with Summer Instagram:@summerlisk Connect with Kami Instagram: @the.bee.podcast Facebook: The Bee Podcast Email: thebeepodcast@gmail.com

Sandra Pope is a mother, teacher and active member of her community. Sandra joins us to share her experience as a black woman in America. Raised in Ohio she married her childhood sweetheart and later moved to Iowa with her family. Sandra shares her stories of growing up in Ohio, moving to Iowa and most importantly the wisdom she gained from those experiences. I can't wait for you to listen to her story, of persistence, acceptance and love. Connect with Kami Instagram: @the.bee.podcast Facebook: The Bee Podcast Email: thebeepodcast@gmail.com  

Kim Kern is a wife, mother to two little girls, and a preschool teacher. She joins us to share her unique perspective being both a mother and a teacher during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Kim's humor, positive attitude, and kind soul will uplift and envelope you as you listen to her journey through this pandemic. She shares the real and raw reality of motherhood, the sad and heartbreaking loss she felt for her students and through it all the love and kindness she's been able to give and receive. Connect with Kim Instagram: @kimkern4 Connect with Kami Instagram: @the.bee.podcastFacebook: The Bee PodcastEmail: thebeepodcast@gmail.com

Karime Massaro is a police officer at Iowa State University. As a young girl she moved from Mexico to the United States and eventually, to Iowa. Karime shares with us all of the hurdles and obstacles she had to overcome to achieve her dreams and her journey to reach her goals, as a woman of color. Karime's sweet spirit and positive outlook will, without a doubt, encourage and inspire you. Let's dive in!Connect with KarimeInstagram: @massaro16Connect with KamiInstagram: @the.bee.podcastFacebook: The Bee PodcastEmail: thebeepodcast@gmail.com Literary Resources:Proud : An American Story of Faith, Family and Olympic Glory by Ibtihaj Muhammad

As a young woman in love Jaclyn Baker married a man and lived a hidden life of emotional and sexual abuse that only intensified as their relationship progressed. Jackie shares with us some of her most difficult experiences. Although her story is unique, sexual and emotion abuse is not. It is our hope that one woman's story will inspire and provide hope for other women to step out from under the abuse and find their voice. Most importantly Jackie shares her process in healing from the trauma that she endured and provides guidance for other women to do the same. This episode contains adult content, please proceed to listen with caution. Book RecommendationsUnworthy: How to Stop Hating yourself by Anneli RufusConnect with KamiInstagram: @the.bee.podcastFacebook: The Bee PodcastEmail: thebeepodcast@gmail.com

Welcome to The Bee Podcast! The mission of this podcast is to create an inspiring platform for women of all ages to have meaningful conversations, to listen to stories similar and different from our own, to engage in each other's triumphs and failures, and to hear and validate one another on the unique journeys we have traveled. Bees symbolize community, personal growth, and power and here at The Bee Podcast we aim to create community, foster growth and empower women. Join host, Kami Millikin and her wonderful guests on this amazing journey. Connect with Kami Instagram: @the.bee.podcast Facebook: The Bee Podcast Email: thebeepodcast@gmail.com

Becca Stockton is a dear friend, and fellow mama. In this episode Becca shares her journey in co-parenting. What that looked like for her in the beginning, the middle and where she is now. Her journey is far from over but her wisdom concerning this topic is something so many women can benefit from, and it needed to be shared. I'm confident Becca's story will resonate with so many co-parenting mamas out there and I know that you're going to love her genuine personality. Connect with BeccaInstagram: @b_stocktonConnect with Kami Instagram: @the.bee.podcast Facebook: The Bee Podcast Email: thebeepodcast@gmail.com

Lindsey Ebert is a wife, teacher, business owner and a mother. Little girls so often dream of becoming just that, a mother. But the road to motherhood wasn't easy for Lindsey. In fact it was paved with heartache, disappointment, and anger among many other emotions.In this episode Lindsey is sharing with us her journey through miscarriage, infertility, and IVF. Her's is a story that so many need to hear and I'm so happy she agreed to share with us. Connect with LindseyInstagram: @lindsebertConnect with Kami Instagram: @the.bee.podcast Facebook: The Bee Podcast Email: thebeepodcast@gmail.com