We Arrow On Podcast

Being a positive person by nature can be tough when it seems like there are fires burning, everywhere one looks... but it can be done and it HAS to be done, and I'm sharing some ways I am attempting to do that, right now.No matter what stage of life you are in, there are things you can do to find joy, and also resist when you know things are not right.  We teach our kids to say something and stand up for others,  and I feel we must practice what we preach, especially during this historical time.One thing that has been helpful are finding smart and experienced people who fact-check and have worked in law/politics AKA know way more than me, to help me find these outlets.Here are a few- feel free to check them out and support them if you value what they share:@emilyinyourphone - has worked as a lawyer and involved in politics in the past- also has a great substack and BOOK- Democracy in Retrograde -- @sharonsayso- also has a great book- The Small and Mighty, calls herself America's Government Teacher- always sharing the facts and schooling us all@annie_wu22 - Has actively worked on various campaigns and always in the know@motherhoodforgood- Kate Duffy- sharing news, culture and advocacy made easyMany more, but those are a great start if you are curious!Please feel free to message me @We_arrow_on_podcast with other ideas or comments any time! Thanks for the listen, and feel free to share with someone who may enjoy! xx, Ash

This episode was a LOOOONG time coming, as you know I live the traveling-for-work spouse life weekly, and have adapted and found ways to help myself, as well as my spouse helping to set us up for success.I knew from the start, I HAD to have my friend Erin Watson on the podcast, especially for this topic, even though I know we could chat on several, so keep a look out, she will likely be back. I won't give too much a way, but Erin's husband is currently deployed for months at a time, and she has a full time job and 3 boys....while she may not agree that she is in fact Wonder Woman (she has my vote), the tips and stories she shares can really inspire you and also if you happen to be new to the sisterhood ,it will be a big help, OR if you have a partner traveling for any reason and may be feeling anxious or worried on how to do all the things, or looking for a few tips/hacks to help yourself out(the cool thing about starting your own podcast, is that you don't have to worry about run on sentences... :)Anyway- this is a great episode and we could've gone on all night, but we know as solo parents some nights, that after bedtime time is PRECIOUS... if you are in this boat you are not alone!! Thanks for listening and you can always send me feedback on instagram at @wearrowonpodcast  

Sometimes, we just need to get it all out on paper.Our wants/needs/hopes/dreams, and let it be known that we have PLANS.Our gym (BurnBootcampTally) started this tradition, and I loved it so much, I had to share with you.You can easily recreate this activity yourself and even if you THINK it's cheesy, I promise it's so powerful.Let me know if you do it! I would love to hear your feedback on how it went!Reminder: Your hopes, dreams and feelings matter, and it is never too late to set a new goal or start a new habit. xx, ash

You heard it right- this episode is all about DISNEY, and my newbie voyage after probably a decade+ removed, and adding a 5yr old and 2.5 yr old to the adventure!As you probably know,  A LOT has changed to how Disney operates, due to changes in technology (the app is great!), fast pass/genie, and waiting in line to see your favorite characters.I was on the mom Disney facebook groups, and while helpful, I also felt overwhelmed hearing all about every individual's trip and how some people made it seem like you had to practically have a phD to have a fun-filled day at Disney.Happy to report that is not the case, and I have to give most of the credit to Amy Mitchell (amy@fairytaleconcierge.com ), who I know personally, but who also works with them parks and travel in general and she was AMAZING at watering it down so I could digest easier, and helping me relax....it's just Disney, and it should be fun!! I just wanted to share things that helped/worked and others that maybe could've been improved upon, just in case you are ever ready to take the trip yourself, or add to what you already know to help improve it next time.Feel free to share with all you Disney loving friends, and also comment if you have other tips, that I missed!Thanks for listening- it means so much!xx Ash

The holidays bring joy and fun, but can also bring big time stress and anxiety, especially as we get older and begin forming our own families.There is definitely an art to balancing things, and while compromise is welcome and appreciated, it's also okay to say "no", if that certain event/tradition no longer serves you or your crew.I am still on my  journey in beginning to create my little families typical traditions, but I'm sharing my favorite 5 tips, on how we've managed to rid ourselves of some of the stress and obligations, in a way that also doesn't burn bridges or leaves people feeling like the Grinch just pushed all the presents off of that big hill :) While this episode is coming to you WAY after the holidays, hopefully you can make some tentative plans in your brain (or note in your phone) for next year so you can be prepared to actually get to do what YOU want, and not feeling like you have to say yes to everything and drag your kiddos to 25 events in one weekend :)I'd love to hear your favorite tips, also!--- DMS always open @we_arrow_on_podcastThanks for the listen!xx, ash

Lordy Lordy, I'm turning 4-0!I'm so glad 40 has a better, more positive rep, than when we were younger, but it can still mess with your mind, if we're not careful.I'm sharing some tips from my year leading up to this milestone, so you can hopefully view your next bday in a brighter light, no matter what number that is.I'm always open to feedback, so feel free to DM me @we_arrow_on_podcast, and please pass it on to a friend or family member who could use some of these vibes!Thanks as always for listening to me ramble!xx Ash

Wow, SO much goodness in one episode!Laurie Cox is a Physical Education Teacher (Coach Cox), with a career spanning 36 years in Leon County Schools.  While she came to education through a little help and encouragement from Mom (why are they always right???), there were too many hints and experiences along the way to prove this was indeed her path and one of her great passions of her life.Laurie shares a few crazy stories, fun memories, and great advice for young people, as well as those interested in the field of education.After 36 years, you might think she would be on a beach somewhere, but not so much, or just yet.  Laurie is running for Leon County school Board!  To find out more about her platform, you can check out https://www.laurielawsoncox4schoolboard.com/How to vote:WHEN: starting 8/13 through 8/21 is early voting, 8/23 final day to voteWHERE: court house, Northeast Library, or at your precinct (8/23 only)Thanks so much for listening! I hope you were inspired and also had fun with us!xo, Ash

Friendships as a an adult can be .......different, amiright?Distance, life phases, a variety of things can make connecting, even just a phone call, a little wonky.The time it takes to form a brand new friendships, can be hard to find with work, family, hobbies also all vying for attention and a piece of your 24hr day.  Is it worth it, YES.Will it always be as easy as it was in high school or college? No.What can we do?-Be understanding with the friends we do have, if distance or life phases/situational issues come up--- true friends are always there, even if it's been a while.- Be OPEN to the new friends surrounding you...they may  not be the same as your BFF from 5th grade, but give it time- it will take longer in most cases to build that strong foundation.   I mention a trick I learned following @ameskiefer  --- if your kids preschool has mail boxes for each kiddo--- it is NOT creepy to drop a note to a kiddo your child keeps talking about.... who knows where it could lead, and people think it is SO thoughtful.More on the podcast- I hope you will gain some insight, and also know you are not alone, if you have every struggled in the friendship category.  Also know, it won't be like this forever!Thanks so much for listening, and as always tag me if you do!xx ash

Holy Moly-- the quote "I love the woman I've become, because I've fought to become her", has been on my brain and heart for a few weeks now, and I knew I had some things to say, and hopefully ADD to your life/outlook.There are days/weeks/months...sometimes YEARS, where it can feel like a legit FIGHT to get to where you want to go...job wise, relationship wise, health wise.....there will be road blocks and times where growth just isn't as fast as we'd like.In this episode, I let you know where I struggle, and what I'm LEARNING (not mastered yet) to do about it, as I continue down this road of life.Also for me, I am always ready for a new challenge, or a way to change up my routine (Enneagram 7s, unite!), so I don't really have a final end goal woman, I want to be-- but one who is always pushing herself in different areas to bend and stretch and GROW, and see what all I can learn and do in the time I have here.If you know someone else who may be in a struggle period, or a valley of life...send this their way!Thanks so much for listening!!  Don't forget to tag @we_arrow_on_podcast, if you listen!xo, ash

Timelines can be great, and they can also really WASTE the time that we have to live, if we put extra pressure on ourselves to reach certain milestones by certain ages (mainly talking weddings and babies, here- because those things just CAN'T be willed into happening or forced-- if we want them to be right and good for us).I'm all about goals and thinking ahead, but when it comes to meeting a partner or having a family (however that may come to be), I know I for sure wasted some good times in my life worrying if I would get married by 30...40?...  when in reality, if the worse case scenario was that I NEVER did, it would've been okay, too.  I think anyone can find nuggets in this week's episode, but ESPECIALLY if you are single or any "in-waiting" period or gray area of life....if you aren't that person, but know someone who could use a pick me up talk on the topic, it would be so awesome if you could send them the link to check it out!As always- send me all the feedback, and thanks ever-so-much for taking time to listen!xo, Ash

It's an emotionally charged one, this week, friends and also comes with a TRIGGER WARNING for traumatic birth, and/or for anyone who may be currently pregnant, and to whom this could be upsetting to.  While our story ended positively, and with a healthy baby, I know this is not always the case.I debated sharing these stories here, but then remembered how thankful I was when I was experiencing unexplained infertility, and so many women were talking more openly about it.  This is the same with miscarriages, and traumatic births- these things are hard to talk about, but so helpful not only to those going through to heal and connect, but to those who may cross one of those bridges later, and will need someone who really understands.It was eye-opening to me also, how different each birth really is, and looking back I was probably naive to assume the second one would be easier/faster, after already having been through.  You just never know, and there is a lot you don't have control over, which can be hard for some of us (cough cough, myself ;)  Thank you for listening, and as always, you can send me feedback at @we_arrow_on_podcastxx, Ash

If you're a mom, veteran or seasoned....you know it, and it can be hard to work through.I'm thankful more and more women are open to discussing these topics, as it has helped me, and hoping this episode gives you some good takeaways for yourself, or a friend who may need your support.I don't think MG every goes AWAY, I think she will ebb and flow and linger...but we can work around and even WITH her, to still keep our interests and passions, other than motherhood, alive and well.I touch on my personal experience, as well as those shared by friends in different situations (working mom vs stay at home mom)...good news, solidarity because every mom feels it in some way- no matter your given scenario.Grab a cup of coffee, or a glass of wine, and know you are a good mom who is doing her best EVERY day, even on days you don't feel it....You're actually rocking it.xx Ash

Happy 2022, People!It's so good to be back on the podcast scene, and thank you for waiting it out with me!-Today's topic has been on my mind, since I've slowly started adding things BACK into my life, post baby #2, and I think it's a PERFECT topic for the new year....EVEN if you're not into resolutions.-Consider this your peptalk to start the year off, by being okay with being NEW at something...Being okay if you MIGHT fail at something....Being okay saying "hey" to that new person in your life...Being okay SHOWING up and just STARTING whatever it is that is that SOMETHING for you, because it's all different for each of us.Please let me know your feedback, and as always, share with a friend who could use an encouraging boost, or help getting out of a funk.Thank you so much for your support and listening to my ramblings :) xx, Ash

This week, we're diving Into all that Is being postpartum In a pandemic. Some things are harder, some things are easier, and It depends on what you're comparing It to.I share about the difference In hospital stays, feeling more prepared for the Isolation of It, as well as the "aftermath" of labor, and feeling more laid back as a second time mom In many ways, despite the pandemic worries.I also share some tips that have been helpful to me during this time, especially that of making time (even MINUTES) for you, when you can..which should be every day, and before you think It, no It's not too much to ask. Also part of my second time experience, Is being more comfortable asking for help. The village Idea really Is true, and If you have offers for someone to bring a meal, coffee, or take something off of your plate, you say Yes, and Thank you so much.As I near the end of my last maternity leave, I feel a mixture of feelings, just as I did last time.Excited to go back to the job and work family I love, but bittersweet that my afternoon snuggles will not happen anymore, on a random tuesday. Here to tell ya, each and every emotion you feel Is NORMAL, and you are allowed to feel It, cry, call a friend when you need.You are a good mom If you stay home, work, breast or formula feed...the job Is the hardest thing there Is, and you do what you need to do.Thanks for listening!! xxAsh

This week, we're chatting up one of my LONGEST friends, Faith Freytag.Having known her for so many years, there are many topics we could take on, but this time, we focus on how she and her husband, Seth, turned a passion Into an actual business. Faith has always been pretty crafty, but after meeting Seth, and taking on home projects and renovations of their own, and also DIY'ing 99.9% of their wedding, they began to wonder If this could ever turn Into more than a side hobby.It only took one friend trusting them and being willing to let them start something at their house, and providing positive feedback, to let Faith and Seth know that they had something REAL here.The real magic began to happen, when Seth was laid off from his job as a Product Designer. Like we all would be, they were devastated at first, but chose to take this moment as a sign that they could now take the next steps In building this business, with Seth's time freed up. Thankfully, the risk paid off, and this year he Is on track to match what he made at his previous job!We chat about 'Imposter syndrome', and feeling "good enough" and qualified, despite lack of a degree or "legit" qualification, starting out messy and not having to have It all together to just BEGIN, and continuing to evolve as you go; something helpful In business, as well as life In general.We also touch on the pros and cons of working with your significant other- which I think we can ALL relate to at some level given our current climate.Faith keeps It real, and welcomes questions from anyone looking to DIY or start a business, and says that you just have to keep taking the next step and just do It.You can follow along and check out latest projects here: https://www.concretetocotton.com/Or on Instagram: @concretetocotton Thanks for listening, and share this one with your DIY friend!xx, Ash

This week, we tackle everything that comes with a NEW YEAR, but let's relieve some pressure and be okay with that not having to equal a NEW ME...amirite? SO much pressure.In this #peptalk, I go Into why NYE Is my favorite holiday, but also touch on some of the negative sides of this FRESH start, If we aren't realistic with our goals.We'll touch on words or themes of the year, Instead of resolutions, but neither one Is better/worse, It's all up to what works for you.Taking some Inspiration from the book, Atomic Habits, by James Clear, I help break down some goals and share that It's these small, non-glamourous habits that get you to where you want to be, but often we are too focused on final transformations.Whether you want to start becoming a morning person, run a 5k, or write a book, this episode will help you start small, to create BIG changes.If you end up setting a resolution or word/theme for 2021, and you feel comfortable, post and tag us @we_arrow_on_podcast. I would love to share as many of these as possible, to Inspire others, and help you stay accountable to what you set for yourself.2020 has been a doozy, we can all agree, but I know so much has been learned from our challenges that we can bring Into this new year. As always, thanks so much for listening, and share this with someone who has big goals for themselves, but maybe Is unsure of where to start. xx, Ash

This week, we get to chat with LeighAnn Conrad, who shares her CURRENT journey as a Digital Academy teacher during a pandemic, but also her journey to the elementary classroom as a second career, later In life.LeighAnn Is ALL about relationships, and while that Is more difficult to establish with students online, as opposed to In person, she believes her bonds with students help solidify her class as a community. Knowing she cares leads to their learning and overall growth as people. LeighAnn's journey to the classroom was an early seed planted by her parents, as educators themselves, but like most of us, It often takes us finding our OWN way, even If our parents are right from the beginning. She only came Into education to volunteer at first, and later substitute, with her only goal to continue to help teachers on leave. Not too long after, she was being requested 4-5 days a week, and she began to realize this was a calling she could no longer avoid.LeighAnn's journey Inspires many, but also has shown her two daughters that anything Is possible, there is always room for change, and the power of hard work and perseverance, and always always always being THANKFUL.I hope you enjoy, and send on to someone who needs an extra boost of hope and faith, and a few laughs.xx, Ash

This week, we chat with Raul Colon, not only our FIRST male guest, but husband to Beth Colon, who we met a few weeks back! It wasn't planned out to have their episodes so close together, but I love how you get to know them both, and see how much Beth was a part of Raul's story of healing and overcoming grief.Raul grew up In a tough area of Chicago, and lost his father and later mother fairly close together, and all In his 20's. We never expect to outlive our parents, and Raul's bond with his mother was very close and special, which left him feeling lost and without support In her absence.Losing his parents at a young age, Raul had two paths to choose from: become bitter and continue with thoughts of unfairness, or choose to thrive and look for ways to stay positive. Meeting his wife (Beth) during this tough time, was just the bit of "sunshine" he needed to continue pursuing the passions that make him how he Is. (And If I can be honest, him crediting and sharing so much of Beth's Influence and how they work as a team to make their dreams work, got me a little teary). Thankfully for all of us, Raul chooses positivity and moving forward, through his creative ventures and truly using his talents to the best of his ability to make his now family, and mom In Heaven, proud.Raul's story proves that you can have many cards stacked against you, as some would say, and through hard work, consistency, and drive- make your dreams happen.Check out more of Raul and his upcoming projects In film: @directorraul

In this weeks episode, I look back at my first pregnancy/postpartum journey, and chat about what worked well and what I want to change, going Into this second (and final) journey.Touching on the aspects of motherhood, that I feel most strongly about:1- Birth plan- Keeping a flexible plan and mindset, and knowing we can only control SO much.2- Paternity Leave- How It was a surprising game changer for us.3- Support- Being open to It, and being A-OKAY admitting we can't do It all alone, and we shouldn't.4- This time Is Fleeting- there will be hard days, and days that feel a week long, but how they also fly by In a blink. Keeping this In mind can help you mentally.5- Building In Time for YOU- Can sound daunting, but you can keep It simple and achievable. 6- Postpartum- Giving yourself time to heal, and keep expectations low- remember what you JUST went through, physically and mentally.7- Comparison- Getting that In check for your sanity8- Feeding- Every journey Is different, and baby will be okay either way.9- Mom friends- Friendships can change, and this may require you to step outside your comfort zone and reach out to new people.Cheers to the mamas, first time, third time, and those hoping to be, one day.Sending you love and support from a far, and hope these tips resonate with you and can help relieve some of the pressure we put on ourselves as Moms. It's a wild ride, but trust you already have all the tools you need- no one knows YOUR baby like you.Share with a friend or family member who could use a pep talk on all things Momming.Be sure to tag me If you listen, so I can personally thank you!xx, AshFollow WE ARROW ON PODCAST: https://www.instagram.com/we_arrow_on_podcast/Meet Ashley: https://www.instagram.com/ashleyrmayo/

Beth always knew she would make It to Chicago, she just didn't know the WHEN, or the WHAT that would take her there. Once she made It, she couldn't have Imagined WHO she would meet, and WHERE she would go from there.Beth's story shows us that It's okay not to know exactly where you want to go after college, and also okay to accept help from family, until we have our plans figured out.Beth's journey from dietetics, to the ER wasn't linear, but she relied on encouraging cheerleaders In her life, and others on a similar path to help keep her focused and accountable for her goals."If you're not happy, make a change" Is one of her quotes to live by, and realizing that money wasn't everything, helped shift her priorities to create a life she, and her now family, love.Beth drops some helpful tips for anyone looking to relocate cities, or try out a new job title, but may be unsure of where to START.Thank you for listening, and go ahead and send this to a friend who may need a push In the right direction, but may be doubting their abilities.xx, AshFollow WE ARROW ON PODCAST: https://www.instagram.com/we_arrow_on_podcast/Meet Ashley: https://www.instagram.com/ashleyrmayo/

In Episode 4, we meet Skyler Matchett, a Sales Professional by day, and Fitness Enthusiast by Night.Skyler BRINGS the energy, and this one Is full of so many great nuggets..."Declare your major, In life", "Your greatness will make others uncomfortable, and that's okay", and "life's short, dance with a bagel", just to name a few.Finding a new tribe, hobby, and accountability, as she was alone In a new city, helped transform her mentally and physically, and led to all kind of new friendships and goals.While her story centers around fitness, there are great takeaways to apply to other aspects of life, as well. One of them being the Idea behind consistency (one of Sky's personal values), and being thoughtful In how we spend our energy, since we only have so much to give, and It should be reciprocated back to us.Come follow Skyler's journey from lonely new girl In town, to Orange Theory enthusiast, OT trainer(!), and fitness competitor(!!). She proves that you really CAN do anything you set your mind to, with the right community around you, self-accountability, and doing It for the RIGHT reasons.Thanks for listening and supporting!! xx, AshFollow Skyler: https://www.instagram.com/sky.matchh/ Follow WE ARROW ON PODCAST: https://www.instagram.com/we_arrow_on_podcast/ Meet Ashley: https://www.instagram.com/ashleyrmayo/

Episode 3: COVID 19 JOURNAL: Same Storm, Different BoatsIn this episode, we dive Into a few snippets from my journal I started, once the pandemic began. Sharing my personal experience- the good and the bad, along with takeaways, I will be carrying with me, Into this next chapter of life.When COVID hit, there was no playbook of how to handle a pandemic, how to explain It to our kids, or a deadline for when It would all be over. Even for myself who likes to take pride In discovering silver linings, even I had to admit that this coping mechanism was hard to use amongst all this uncertainty.Despite all of the negative, by nature, I have to look for what (even little) good I can draw from this, In moving forward. If Corona Is a big, nasty arrow that Is still continuing to pull us back In some ways, It just has to be ready to launch us Into a better place, eventually.Stay tuned for my Top 4 (because 5 would be to obvious) takeaways that were uncovered throughout my pandemic experience, and I'm hopeful you can use them and pass them on to a good friend, too.As always, thanks for listening, It truly means the world to have your support!xx, Ash

Episode #2: "If I hadn't gone through Infertility, I wouldn't have discovered the traits within myself, that I have today"- Marilyn GomezIn a real and candid chat, Marilyn takes us through her many year journey through Infertility- The highs, the lows, and most Importantly- lessons and tools gained from her experience. While on this journey, Marilyn became a better Self-Advocate, and wasn't afraid to ask the doctors questions, when she didn't understand, or necessarily agree with something.At the time, not many women were opening up about their struggles to get pregnant, and Marilyn also kept her struggle to herself, at first, without knowing anyone who had been there before, and could fully understand the scope of what she was going through. Thanks to Instagram, she began searching out hashtags and other women who were, or had gone through Infertility, and eventually joined Into a community of love, support and awareness. She documented her last IVF transfer, In a way to help those coming up after her, as she was helped by those that went before HER. Finding strength and unity through her new-found tribe, enabled her to eventually be find closure and peace In ending her path to grow her family, and ultimately being grateful, and at peace with "The One", her daughter, Mila.While this episode Is focused on the topic of Infertility, many of the tips Marilyn shares can easily transfer to other life experiences, and help us cope In whatever journey we may be on.Thanks so much for listening, and as always, feel free to share with a friend, drop a review, and/or a 5 star rating, If you love It!

Welcome to my first ever episode!Here, I keep It short and sweet, set the tone for my podcast, as well as Introduce topics you can plan on hearing about, as I go!I have such a great mix of guests, as well as my own personal thoughts to pour Into this, and I can't wait for you to join me on this journey!