Podcasts about ashley website

Ashley Stahl, career strategist, founder of Wise Whisper Agency, and speaker of one of the most-watched TED Talks of all time, joins the show to break down exactly how solopreneurs can build a powerful personal brand through speaking, without burning out or constantly performing online.In this episode, Ashley shares why "do what you love" is the wrong advice, how to identify your core values as a career filter, and why most people confuse credibility with authority (and which one actually gets you clients).What you'll learn:The difference between your skillset (the what) and your core values (the how), and why both matter for your businessWhy authority, not credibility, is what actually drives client growthThe "islands" framework for building a personal brand onlineHow to write a signature talk with original thinking, even if you've never been on a stageWhy a TEDx talk can generate opportunities for 15+ years after you give itThe structural formula Ashley's team uses to write talks (including word count, page count, and emotional arc)How focusing on one brand channel per year beats trying to be everywhere at onceConnect with Ashley:Website: wisewhisperagency.comBook a call: wisewhisperagency.com/calendarInstagram: @ashleystahl

Show notes: (0:00) Intro (1:07) Why weight loss is not the same as weight health (7:07) Antibiotics, gut health, and long-term repair (9:28) A real patient story: pizza, digestion, and hope (20:33) Gut assessment, testing, and healing basics (26:56) GLP-1s as hormone support, not a quick fix (37:43) Who should and should not use GLP-1s (42:11) New oral GLP-1 options and concerns (46:23) Why expert guidance matters (48:40) Where to find Ashley and her resources (53:14) Outro Who is Ashley Koff, RD?   Ashley Koff, RD, is a USA Today bestselling author, registered dietitian, and founder of The Better Nutrition Program. With more than 25 years of experience, she has helped reshape the conversation around sustainable weight health by moving beyond traditional dieting and focusing on digestion, hormones, blood sugar, inflammation, and personalized nutrition. In her book Your Best Shot, Ashley introduces a practical system for understanding and supporting weight health hormones, including GLP-1s, whether someone is using medication or not. Her work helps people feel more informed, hopeful, and empowered in their health journey. Connect with Ashley: Website: https://thebetternutritionprogram.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-koff/   Grab a copy: https://thebetternutritionprogram.com/your-best-shot/   Links and Resources: Peak Performance Life  Peak Performance on Facebook Peak Performance on Instagram    

Betsy Cornwell saw a gap — artist residencies she qualified for but couldn't access as a single parent — and instead of waiting for someone else to fill it, she built something herself. She crowdfunded the purchase of a historic 1906 knitting factory on the west coast of Ireland, turned it into a residency and retreat space for other single parent artists, and then wrote a memoir about how all of it happened.In this conversation, Ashley and Betsy talk about coming out of an abusive marriage, what it means to write honestly about hard things as a mother, the gap between the writing life you imagine and the one you actually have, and why the accomplishment Betsy is most proud of isn't her New York Times bestseller or her university teaching post — it's being a single mom.In This EpisodeHow Betsy became a single parent and why she found herself proud to be one almost immediatelyThe gap she identified — artist residencies she qualified for but couldn't access because of caretaking logistics and financesThe castle that didn't work out, the pivot to the knitting factory, and why this place ended up being a better fitWhat crowdfunding a house actually looked like — including the 2am moment when everything came down to the wireWhy she gives residency recipients a cash childcare stipend rather than on-site childcare — and what that trust meansThe Smith College Friday Tea tradition and the online community that supported her through the most isolated stretch of her lifeWriting about emotional abuse — “he never hit me” — and why that makes some readers deeply uncomfortableThe ethics of writing a memoir as a parent: how she handled writing about her son and his fatherWhy mother's silence is not the solution to the complexity of women telling their storiesWriting Ring of Salt on the edge of a bathtub — and what that says about the art you can make in the life you haveRaising her son in an Irish-speaking region of Ireland — and what she's observed about life in Ireland versus the USThe “keep it alive” approach to creative practice for caregiversWhat she hopes happens when someone comes to the Old Knitting Factory and gets to breathe for the first timeQuotes From This Episode“The accomplishment I'm most proud of is being a single mom. And I think that will always be true.”— Betsy Cornwell“I don't think the brunt of all that complexity should be borne through the simple solution of mother's silence. That is not right to me.”— Betsy Cornwell“The book that I could write is the book that I could write in the life that I have.”— Betsy Cornwell“Have you kept your art practice alive today? It's just about keeping it alive.”— Betsy Cornwell“We're kicking the bar down the road and wondering why our toe hurts.”— Ashley BlackingtonResources & LinksRing of Salt (memoir): available at any bookstore or via oldknittingfactory.comOld Knitting Factory: oldknittingfactory.comSupport the residency on PatreonAll books including YA novels: betsycornwell.comFriday Tea on Substack: find Betsy on SubstackConnect with Ashley:Website: https://www.ashleyblackington.comPodcast website: https://www.andbothpodcast.com/Dovetail® App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dovetail-app/id6744341822Instagram: @mydovetail.appLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyblackington/

In this rich, heartfelt episode, Anna is joined by Ashley Olson, Founder and Executive Chef of Southern with a French Twist. Ashley creates intimate culinary experiences across Austin and the Hill Country — from luxury dinner parties to private jet catering — with a philosophy that blends Southern warmth with French finesse.But this episode isn't just about food. It's about returning to the parts of yourself you left behind. It's about trusting the unknown. It's about community, creativity, and the radical act of showing up authentically in a world that often feels isolating.Ashley shares the winding path that took her from corporate tech burnout to culinary school to building a business centered on connection and hospitality. She talks about shame-free childhood creativity, the vulnerability of letting herself be seen, and the courage of choosing a life without knowing where it will lead.She also shares her passion for reimagining the culinary workplace — creating environments where chefs are cared for, nourished, and supported rather than burnt out and broken down.In this episode, we explore:• Ashley's early love of baking and the creative breadcrumbs that led her back to herself• Leaving the corporate grind to follow an intuition she couldn't explain yet• The role of safe containers — in life, in community, and at the table• How COVID changed gathering culture and sparked Ashley's business growth• Why authenticity is terrifying (and necessary) for building anything meaningful• Coming home to your own creative identity — and the business that emerges when you stop shape-shifting• What makes Southern with a French Twist different from traditional private chefing• The importance of bringing hospitality to both clients and the chefs behind the scenes• Ashley's dreams for the future: a movement around gathering, and a radically healthy culinary workplace• The practical, grounded conversation she has with fear every single day• How to recognize the “heat map” of fear and follow it toward creativityThis episode is a warm meal for anyone longing for creativity, connection, or permission to return to the truest parts of themselves. Connect with Ashley• Website: https://www.southernwithafrenchtwist.com/• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chef.ashley.olson/ Connect with Anna• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anna_holtzman/• Website: https://www.annaholtzman.com/• Free workshop — Let Yourself Be Seen: https://www.annaholtzman.com/beseen

Laura Navaquin spent nearly 20 years in corporate America before one Wednesday meeting pushed her over the edge. Her husband said “just quit, we'll figure it out.” She did, and then spent the next few weeks wondering if she'd made a catastrophic mistake before realizing she was exactly where she was supposed to be.Today Laura and her husband run four businesses rooted in real estate — a consulting practice, a wholesaling company, a framework for real estate agents called Beyond Commissions, and a contracting business — while raising four kids, three of whom are three and under. In this conversation, Ashley and Laura talk about the messy, non-linear reality of building something from scratch while staying present for the people who matter most.In This EpisodeWhy Laura left corporate after 20 years — it wasn't the job, it was losing control of her own scheduleThe Wednesday she quit on impulse and the fear that followed immediately afterHow she and her husband grew their real estate portfolio from four doors to twenty-one in under two yearsWhy they scaled too fast, stepped back, and what that taught them about sustainable growthCreative financing — what it is and how it changed what was possible for themHow four businesses became interconnected rather than overwhelmingBeyond Commissions — the real estate agent framework they spent 2025 building and launched in JanuaryThe entrepreneur catch-22: needing help, hiring help, and ending up doing it yourself anywayHow they navigate four kids and four businesses — shared office, shared calendar, shared flexibilityGetting kids involved in the business in age-appropriate waysWhy the nine-year-old's salsa company ambitions are being taken seriouslyThe shift in how we talk about money, investing, and entrepreneurship with the next generationWhere Laura sees things going — development, fundraising, and building on a larger scaleQuotes From This Episode“Some weeks I take off entirely, or I work weekends and late nights — but I'm still able to work that schedule around my life.”— Laura Navaquin“Being able to have that flexibility and creativity with the way you do things allows you to pivot and still keep that business alive.”— Laura Navaquin“When you pressure test the system, then you start to pivot. Then you start to say, what is a reasonable ask for me?”— Ashley Blackington“I never saw myself in real estate in any capacity — but to see where we are nowadays and all the future plans that we're making. It's somewhat comical, but in all the best ways.”— Laura Navaquin“Non-traditional is becoming traditional.”— Ashley BlackingtonFind LauraLinkedIn & Instagram: @LauraNavaquinWebsite: lauranavaqquin.comBeyond Commissions: beyondcommissions.ioConnect with Ashley:Website: https://www.ashleyblackington.comPodcast website: https://www.andbothpodcast.com/Dovetail® App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dovetail-app/id6744341822Instagram: @mydovetail.appLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyblackington/

Everyone dies. And yet most of us have no idea what dying actually looks like — because we've been shielded from it, and because everything we've seen on screen is wrong.Jade Adgate is a death doula, educator, and founder of Farewell Fellowship in Middle Tennessee. She's spent years walking alongside families at end of life — not as a tour guide, but as a fellow traveler — and she's on a mission to normalize the experience of death so that fewer people have to face it completely unprepared.In this conversation, Ashley and Jade cover a lot of ground: the real dying process versus what we expect it to be, how we live is how we die, the role of control in caregiving, what those extended months of treatment are actually buying us, and what it looks like to bring sacredness back to the end of life — even when it's messy and ordinary and nothing like the movies.In This EpisodeHow Jade got into death doula work- from Hurricane Katrina, to moving in with her great-aunt Sis, to hospice volunteeringThe parallel between parenting teenagers and supporting families at end of life, both require learning to hold while letting goHow death became less ordinary and why that's a tragedyThe idea that modern medicine has learned to extend dying, not just lifeQuality versus quantity: what people think they're buying with treatment versus what they're actually gettingRoxanne: the client who tried to control every detail of her own death, and what Jade learned from herAdeline: a pediatric client who died just before her fifth birthday, and the home funeral that gave her family something differentWhy 90% of people end up in a hospital bed at end of life and why that matters to knowWhat actually happens in the hours after someone dies and why slowing down is the most important thing a death doula doesThe gap between the Forrest Gump death scene and realityHow Jade protects herself in this work as a self-described recovering codependent eldest daughterThe future of death doula work, bringing these tools into communities and families who can't access a professionalQuotes From This Episode“How we live is how we die. Who we are is who we are when we're dying.”— Jade Adgate“If we are going to buy more time, can we know at the beginning that this is the time we're buying? It starts right now — instead of we're going to do all these treatments and then start our time when you're feeling better.”— Jade Adgate“Death is the teacher. As much as I think I might know, it is totally different for every single person.”— Jade Adgate“This is not wisdom that needs a gatekeeper. This is all of our collective wisdom.”— Jade Adgate“There are no monsters around corners if you know where all the corners are.”— Ashley BlackingtonResources & LinksFarewell Fellowship (in-person doula services, education & library): farewellfellowship.comInstagram: Farewell LibraryBook referenced: Gone From My Sight — Barbara CarnesShow referenced: Dying for Sex (Hulu)Connect with Ashley:Website: https://www.ashleyblackington.comPodcast website: https://www.andbothpodcast.com/Dovetail® App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dovetail-app/id6744341822Instagram: @mydovetail.appLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyblackington/

Libby Ward built one of the internet's most recognizable platforms for honest motherhood, and she did it by saying the things most moms were too afraid to say out loud. Now she's put it all in a book: Motherhood: On Losing My Mind and Finding Myself, published by Crown.In this co-hosted episode, Ashley and Erin sit down with Libby to trace the full arc, from the small town church community where motherhood was put on a pedestal, to the postpartum rage that finally broke her open, to the sociology class that reframed everything, to going viral on TikTok during a pandemic, to writing a book for Crown that she nearly wrote as someone else entirely.It's a conversation about what happens when women stop doing everything for everyone else and start asking who they actually are, and why that question so often doesn't get asked until something breaks.In This EpisodeWho Libby was before TikTok- a 26-year-old in a conservative church community trying to be every kind of mom at onceHow her second child's higher needs broke the plate-spinning and sent her to therapy for the first timeWhy her postpartum depression showed up as rage, not sadness and why that made it harder to recognize and nameThe shame spiral of “what is wrong with me” and the therapy session that cracked it openThe sociology of sex and gender class that introduced her to the mental load, default parenting, and feminismFinding TikTok during the pandemic and posting as a form of dissociation, not really believing anyone would find herThe moment she stopped making humor content and decided she didn't want to joke about things that were crushing her soulGoing no contact with her mom and how that coincided with the book deal coming throughThe writing process: imposter syndrome, a pivot away from research-heavy writing, and learning to trust her own storytellingWhy she didn't lose herself in motherhood, she never found herself before itDoing it guilty: why waiting to feel ready or unashamed means never changing anythingWhat “honest motherhood” actually means and why it starts internally, not out loudQuotes From This Episode:“I didn't lose myself in motherhood. I actually never found myself or knew myself when I was younger. Motherhood was the catalyst to help me find the self I never knew before motherhood even began.”— Libby Ward“It's not that I'm exhausted because I'm not enough. It's that the load is too much for any one person. That shift is so important.”— Libby Ward“How do you get rid of the guilt and shame? You just do it guilty. You do it feeling a little bit ashamed. And then you're retraining your brain — actually, we survived. Actually, it's okay.”— Libby Ward“I am so tired of women being the butt end of jokes. I no longer want to joke about the things that are crushing my soul.”— Libby Ward“You deserve to be well just for the mere fact that you're a person who deserves to be well. Your kids just happen to benefit from that.”— Libby WardAbout the BookMotherhood: On Losing My Mind and Finding Myself by Libby Ward is available now wherever books are sold — Amazon, Indigo, and most major retailers.Find LibbyWebsite: libbyward.comInstagram: @libbywardTikTok: @libbywardofficialConnect with Ashley:Website: https://www.ashleyblackington.comPodcast website: https://www.andbothpodcast.com/Dovetail® App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dovetail-app/id6744341822Instagram: @mydovetail.appLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyblackington/

What does it mean to break a cycle when you're still inside it? Michelle Gibson is a psychotherapist, CEO of Gibson and Associates and the Nest Collective, and a mom of one, and she has spent her career helping people find language for experiences they were never taught to name.In this conversation, Michelle and Ashley cover a lot of ground: childhood trauma and the path into psychotherapy, the complicated terrain of parent estrangement, why adverse childhood experiences are disproportionately common in entrepreneurs, and what it looks like to lead a business and a family, from a place of genuine self-connection rather than survival mode.It's an honest, warm, and unexpectedly funny conversation about doing the work while also just trying to get dinner on the table.In This EpisodeHow Michelle's childhood (alcoholism, trauma, adverse childhood experiences) led her to psychotherapyThe magnetic effect of finding language for what you've been throughWhy social-emotional learning in schools is changing what middle school looks like for kids todayReparenting yourself while parenting someone else — and the double labor that involvesThe rise of estrangement from parents and what's driving itMichelle shares her own experience estranging from her father — and why having a daughter changed the calculationAshley shares her own experience with estrangementWhy entrepreneurs so often come from hard childhoods — grit as a survival responseThe moment Michelle looked up from years of grind and realized she'd been in survival mode her whole lifeWhat it means to lead from a heart-led place versus a fear-led oneThe privilege of support — naming it honestly so other parents don't compare their back end to someone else's front end“Your parents' ceiling is your floor” — and how Michelle thinks about expanding that for her daughterResources & LinksGibson and Associates: gibsoncounselling.caThe Nest Collective: thenestcollective.caEmail: michelle@gibsoncounselling.ca or michelle@thenestcollective.caFind Michelle on LinkedInConnect with Ashley:Website: https://www.ashleyblackington.comPodcast website: https://www.andbothpodcast.com/Dovetail® App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dovetail-app/id6744341822Instagram: @mydovetail.appLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyblackington/

 Why is it so hard to say no… even when you know you need to?In this episode of Masks Off, Kim is joined by returning guest Ashley Bendiksen—healthy relationships educator, youth speaker, and trauma-resilience advocate—to explore why boundary-setting feels so difficult, especially for young adults.Together, they unpack how early conditioning, fear of rejection, people-pleasing, and nervous system responses like freezing and fawning can make even the simplest boundary feel impossible.This conversation goes beyond surface-level advice and gets to the root: emotional safety.You'll hear real-life examples from friendships, dating, family, and work—and learn how to start setting boundaries in small, doable ways without overwhelming yourself.They also explore the deeper truth: that true confidence in setting boundaries comes from healing the parts of you that learned it wasn't safe to have them.Key Takeaways:It's not a skill issue—it's a safety issueWhy you can know what to say and still not say itThe role of the “inner controller” in avoiding conflictHow to start with micro-boundariesWhy discomfort doesn't mean you're doing it wrong

“If we can heal our unresolved grief and trauma, we can heal the world.” - Ashley Nicole Jones In this episode, Ashley shares her personal story of the loss of her beautiful daughter Skylar at the age of only 21 months. After the diagnosis was received, Ashley and her husband did everything they could as young parents to love and have special moments and memories with their daughter. They received the gift of a professional photo shoot capturing those moments with their daughter that became a tool of healing for them after their tragic loss. Today, Ashley has created Momento Foundation, which is a non-profit organization that is revolutionizing the way we heal in grief.   Her foundation: Preserves the memories for families facing a terminal illness diagnosis at no cost Provides education and community to those navigating loss or supporting others Educating companies on how they can better care for employees in grief   Her book “When You Can't See the Light” is another tool to help people process and navigate their grief. Ashley has dedicated her career to helping people who are hurting through love and tangible support, because people did that for her in a time of need, and it made all the difference.   Connect with Ashley: Website - https://www.ashleynicolejones.com/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleynicolejones/ Momento Foundation - https://www.momentofoundation.org/   CONNECT WITH DEBI Do you feel stuck?  Do you sense it's time for a change, but are unsure where to start or how to move forward? Schedule a clarity call! Free Clarity Call: https://calendly.com/debironca/free-clarity-call Website – https://www.debironca.com Instagram - @debironca Email – info@debironca.com Free Group Coaching - https://debi.sequoiatransitioncoaching.com/group-coaching YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@DebiRoncaOfficial     Check out my online course! Your Story's Changing, Finding Purpose in Life's Transitionshttps://course.sequoiatransitioncoaching.com/8-week-program The Family Letter by Debi Ronca – International Best Sellerhttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B07SSJFXBD

What happens when two of the biggest life transitions collide at exactly the same time? For grief coach Sarah Kagan, that meant losing her mother at six months pregnant and learning to live through loss while preparing to bring a new life into the world.Sarah is a mother to two young kids, a former corporate professional who walked away from her career to follow a calling, and someone who is building a platform to change the way we talk about grief, especially in the workplace.In this conversation, Ashley and Sarah dig into what it really means to grieve in real time, why the pressure to “be strong” is one of the most isolating things we do to each other, and what it looks like to hold loss and love at the same time, without having to choose between them.In This EpisodeWhat it means to be a “motherless mother” and why grief hits differently once you're a parentThe moment at her mother's Shiva that taught Sarah everything about how we avoid griefWhy “you're so brave” and “at least she's not suffering” do more harm than goodThe martyrdom trap — and how stepping out of it changed everything for SarahThe statistic that 51% of people leave their jobs within a year of a major lossHow Sarah rebuilt her work life after leaving corporate — no 9-to-5, Wednesdays for arts and crafts, out by 4pmWhy grief needs a better spokesperson (and what menopause got right)The problem with bereavement leave policies that tell you who you're allowed to mournAshley opens up about losing her father to suicide and the shame layered on top of certain kinds of lossHow to slow down after caregiving — and why your body will eventually make youSarah's grief workbook and creative morning kits: where does the love go when someone dies?Quotes From This Episode“There's so much pressure to cover up or perform or just show up and be like, yeah, I'm fine. But it is a big deal and you need someone else to validate that experience for you.” — Sarah Kagan“Trying to put a period on something that's an ellipsis.” — Sarah Kagan, on toxic positivity around grief“No one helps you speed up. They just throw it at you and you do it." — Ashley BlackingtonConnect with SarahFind Sarah on LinkedIn: Sarah KaganWebsite: keriahcoaching.comInstagram: @griefcoachsarahConnect with Ashley:Website: https://www.ashleyblackington.comPodcast website: https://www.andbothpodcast.com/Dovetail® App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dovetail-app/id6744341822Instagram: @mydovetail.appLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyblackington/

Ashley Herd, a former Chief People Officer and General Counsel, leadership speaker, author, and podcast host, joins me on this episode. Ashley has trained over 250,000 managers through LinkedIn Learning and corporate programs, and has spent her career helping professionals navigate leadership challenges with clarity and confidence. She built Manager Method after leading HR and Legal teams at McKinsey, Yum! Brands, and Modern Luxury. Ashley has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, Business Insider, and more. If you want to become a better leader, communicator, and decision-maker, this conversation is for you.

“What if I've dieted for so long that I've permanently damaged my metabolism?”This is a question I hear a lot. If you've spent years restricting, tracking, cutting carbs, pushing through hunger, over-exercising, … it makes sense that your body doesn't feel the same anymore.Maybe you're exhausted.Maybe you're lifting weights but not building muscle.Maybe you're barely hungry all day… then ravenous at night.Maybe the second you loosen control, your brain screams, “You're going to gain everything back.”In this episode, I sit down with Ashley Fillmore - professional nutrition coach, health educator and certified personal training with nearly 20 years of experience helping women heal their metabolism , balance their hormones and achieve body-composition changes that last a lifetime. We talk about:• What “metabolic adaptation” really is • Why chronic restriction down-regulates your metabolism • The difference between intentional healing and chaotic rebound eating • Why swinging from restriction to bingeing feels so awful • Signs your metabolism needs support • And the question everyone is afraid to ask: Is it repairable?This conversation is so compassionate and science-informed. You're going to walk away knowing how to begin supporting your metabolism without obsessively tracking or white-knuckling your way through another plan.Connect with Ashley:Website & Coaching: https://www.metabolicfix.com/onePodcast: https://www.metabolicfix.com/podcasts/cheers-to-your-successInstagram: @ashley_fillmore1Free Phase Assessment Quiz: https://www.metabolicfix.com/phase-quizFree Hormone Assessment and Hormonal Guide: https://www.metabolicfix.com/hormone-quiz

In this episode, host Ashley Blackington sits down with Caroline Benefield—digital marketer, stepparent, and someone who found herself living a decade of life in 18 months. Caroline shares what it really means to become the third parent in a blended family, how she navigated losing both parents while building a new family dynamic, and what happens when your dream job turns out not to be your dream.Between January 2022 and June 2023, Caroline got engaged, bought a house, moved in with her fiancé and his two kids, lost both parents, managed two estates as an only child, canceled her wedding, got married on her back porch, left corporate life, wrote a romance series, and started a digital marketing business. Through it all, she's been learning how to show up as a secure, trusted adult in her stepkids' lives—with boundaries, intention, and a lot of therapy.In This Episode-What it means to be "the third parent" in a blended family—not the replacement, not the villain, but an additional secure adult-Why Caroline's approach is about enhancing existing support rather than reinventing the wheel-How she and her husband decided which parenting responsibilities she'd take on—and which ones stay with the biological parents-The importance of moving into a new house together rather than slotting into an existing family home-Navigating grief while building a new family—losing her father after a decade-long decline and her mother suddenly within 18 months-Estate planning lessons: why her mom's organized estate closed in 9 months while her dad's is still open after 4 years-What happens when your dream job (becoming a romance author) turns out not to be your dream-Why she started a digital marketing business specifically for moms and women—the people shortest on time with the most to give-The fiber arts connection: how teaching the kids to crochet and needlepoint became a way to share something her own mom taught herKey Quotes"My job as a stepparent is not to reinvent the wheel in their lives. My job is to come in and give them extra support and resources to navigate all of the complications and emotions that come with little bodies and little brains."— Caroline Benefield"If you are not married to your partner and you don't intend to be, please, please set them up for success. Please set everything up."— Caroline Benefield on estate planningResources & LinksCaroline's website: southerngritdigital.comServices: Digital marketing for creatives, entrepreneurs, moms, and women (email marketing, compliance audits, digital ads, full-service packages) Action Steps for Listeners1. If you're dating someone with kids: Ask yourself if you can be a safe and secure adult in their lives. That's the starting point.2. If you're in a blended family: Have clear conversations about boundaries and responsibilities before integration gets messy. Who handles discipline? What decisions require both biological parents?3. Estate planning reminder: Set up rights of survivorship, trusts, and clear documentation. Even if you have a will, it's not enough if things have to go through probate.4. If you're a long-term partner but not married: Make sure you're set up legally. Your partner's kids will be next of kin, not you, unless paperwork says otherwise.5. Therapy isn't optional: Caroline, her husband, and their relationship all have their own therapy. It's how they navigate the hard stuff.6. For moms and women entrepreneurs: If you're at the point where you know you need marketing help but don't know where to start, visit southerngritdigital.com.Connect with Ashley:Website: https://www.ashleyblackington.comPodcast website: https://www.andbothpodcast.com/Dovetail® App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dovetail-app/id6744341822Instagram: @mydovetail.appLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyblackington/

This episode encourages embracing the messy middle, shedding old identities, taking small intentional steps, and cultivating a growth mindset as we navigate life's many transitions, personally and in parenting.Big question - What happens when the identity that once kept you strong… starts to burn you out?Dr. Anne Welsh shares her work supporting ambitious, working moms, and emphasizes the complexity of personal change. Ben Katt discusses his experience with spirituality, community, and social healing, focusing on midlife transformation. We touch upon letting go and the importance of small changes, especially in parenting and the evolving relationship with children, as well as the importance of celebrating small victories amidst self care. Discover practical insights on how small shifts, self-reflection, and celebrating milestones can transform your experience of change and growth.Key Topics:How to navigate the fear of letting go of old identities and armorThe concept of the "hero's journey" and the call to adventure in midlifeSmall, intentional shifts versus major life upheavals for meaningful changeThe importance of slowing down, reflection, and micro-moments of joyParenting milestones as rites of passage and opportunities for celebrationAddressing grief and loss in parenting and personal transitionsEmbracing a growth mindset about aging and continuous learningPractical tips for self-trust, desire-led choices, and pacing oneself during changeConnect with Anne:https://www.linkedin.com/in/drannewelsh/www.instagram.com/drannewelsh/www.drannewelsh.comConnect with Ben:www.benkattofficial.comModern Elder Academy Book: The Way HomeWithin Prison Meditation Project SubstackInstagramConnect with Ashley:Website: https://www.ashleyblackington.comPodcast website: https://www.andbothpodcast.com/Dovetail® App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dovetail-app/id6744341822Instagram: @mydovetail.appLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyblackington/

On this episode of Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing, Jonathan Greene interviews Ashley Garner, founder of ABG & Associates and a multifamily investor with more than three decades of experience. Ashley shares how growing up renovating college rentals with his banker father shaped his long-term mindset and ultimately led him to scale from small single-family properties to hundreds of apartment units across North Carolina. Ashley reflects on the transition from hands-on landlord to operator and capital raiser, explaining why scaling required him to let go of control and trust professional property management. He discusses the importance of communication systems, standardized processes, and focusing geographically to build operational leverage. The conversation also explores syndication, raising capital through relationships, and how cost segregation and bonus depreciation can dramatically enhance investor returns. Throughout the episode, Jonathan and Ashley return to a central theme: real estate is a long game. Whether it's holding properties for decades to fund long-term care, prioritizing clean and safe housing for tenants, or building trust with investors, sustainable success comes from discipline, patience, and strong relationships. In this episode, you will hear: How Ashley's early exposure to college rentals shaped his investing philosophy Why scaling required letting go of hands-on management The importance of structured communication with property managers How focusing on one state can create operational and investor advantages The mindset shift from "asking for money" to offering opportunity through syndication How cost segregation and bonus depreciation can significantly boost investor returns Follow and Review If you enjoy the show, please follow Zen and the Art of Real Estate Investing on Apple Podcasts and leave a rating and review. It helps other listeners discover these conversations and supports the show's growth. Supporting Resources Connect with Ashley: Website: http://www.abgmultifamily.com/  Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/@abgmultifamily  Facebook: http://facebook.com/ABGRealEstate  Instagram: http://instagram.com/abgrealestate  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleybgarner/  X: http://twitter.com/ABGRealEstate  Connect with Jonathan: Website - www.streamlined.properties  YouTube - www.youtube.com/c/JonathanGreeneRE/videos  Instagram - www.instagram.com/trustgreene  Instagram - www.instagram.com/streamlinedproperties    Zillow - www.zillow.com/profile/streamlinen​j Bigger Pockets -  www.biggerpockets.com/users/jonathangreene Facebook - www.facebook.com/streamlinedproperties  Email - info@streamlined.properties   This episode was produced by Outlier Audio.

Margo is joined by Ashley Lohr, an artist, educator, and community builder based in Petersburg, Alaska—a small fishing island town where she has taught art for nearly two decades. Working across painting and enamel jewelry, Ashley has built a creative life rooted in place, curiosity, and long-term commitment. From sustaining robust school art programs to teaching workshops far beyond the classroom, her path is a testament to what can unfold when artists design lives that support both their work and their values. Ashley shares how moving to Alaska at 23 shaped her identity as both a teacher and artist, how she continues to grow her own practice alongside full-time teaching, and what she learned from intentionally stepping away during a self-created sabbatical. In this conversation, we discuss: Moving to Petersburg, Alaska for a teaching job—and how place can deeply shape creative alignment Teaching art in ways that feel authentic, expansive, and student-centered How Ashley builds, sustains, and evolves art programs within a school setting Maintaining a personal art practice alongside full-time teaching and family life Taking a self-designed sabbatical and what it revealed about community, creativity, and pace Teaching outside the classroom: workshops, travel, and non-gallery ways to share work Finding and proposing workshop opportunities—locally and farther afield Trusting a slow, steady creative path and allowing your work to change over time Connect with Ashley: Website: https://ashleylohrart.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/ashleylohrart Connect with Margo: Website: www.windowsillchats.com Instagram: @windowsillchats www.patreon.com/inthewindowsill https://www.yourtantaustudio.com/thefoundry

What does it look like to make a huge life pivot in the middle of raising small kids—and during a global pandemic?In this episode, Ashley talks with Danielle Alvarez, a mom of three who walked away from the business she'd spent years building and went to law school with a six-, five-, and one-year-old at home. Now a corporate attorney with her own small business-focused firm, Danielle shares what it really looked like to start over, and how she made room for ambition without sacrificing everything else.This is a conversation about redefining success, letting go of timelines, and figuring out what actually feels right—instead of chasing what's expected.Whether you're in the middle of a pivot, thinking about one, or just trying to hold your own dreams alongside your real life, this one's for you.We talk about:– Making a big life change when the timing isn't ideal– Doing things differently than the “traditional” path– Ambition, burnout, and the pressure to do it all– Parenting while building something new– Starting a business that reflects your values– Letting go of old expectations (and other people's opinions)Connect with DanielleLinks + Resources:Website: sblslaw.comLinkedIn: Danielle Alvarez, Esq., MBAEmail: danielle@sblslaw.comConnect with Ashley:Website: https://www.ashleyblackington.comPodcast website: https://www.andbothpodcast.com/Dovetail® App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dovetail-app/id6744341822Instagram: @mydovetail.appLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyblackington/

Burnout doesn't always show up as falling apart.Sometimes it looks like holding everything together for too long.In this episode of AND/BOTH, Ashley sits down with Sarah Smith — founder of Iconoclast Innovations, mom of two, and self-described iconoclast — for a deeply honest conversation about motherhood, mental health, and rebuilding yourself after burnout.Sarah shares her experience navigating postpartum anxiety and depression during the pandemic, being laid off multiple times, starting a business while pregnant, and learning how to advocate for herself in a system that often loses sight of mothers after birth.Together, Ashley and Sarah talk about identity shifts after becoming a parent, why burnout is information (not failure), how community and support can be lifesaving, and what it really means to choose yourself and your family — even when it's messy.This episode is for anyone who has ever wondered: Why does this feel so hard — and am I the only one struggling?You're not alone. And you're not doing it wrong.Connect with Sarah:Website: https://iconoclastinnovationsllc.com/Connect with Ashley:Website: https://www.ashleyblackington.comPodcast website: https://www.andbothpodcast.com/Dovetail® App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dovetail-app/id6744341822Instagram: @mydovetail.appLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyblackington/

Too many aspiring investors stop short of multifamily because they think it's out of reach.In this episode Ashley Garner breaks down the myths that keep aspiring investors stuck—especially the belief that you must personally fund every deal.Ashley Garner,  real estate entrepreneur, founder of ABG Multifamily  demystifies the transition from single-family rentals to large-scale apartment buildings. With over 30 years of experience and 300+ units under management, Ashley shares how a personal health crisis and his father's legacy proved the life-saving power of passive real estate income. Whether you have one door or none, this conversation will give you the roadmap to stop "swimming on land" and start building a portfolio that lasts for generations.Key Takeaways0:00 – Don't let fear stop you: The accessibility of Multifamily.1:30 – Introducing Ashley Garner: 30 years of real estate expertise.3:24 – The Legacy of Cacao and College Rentals: How real estate is paying for his father's care.5:51 – The 10-Unit Leap: Overcoming the fear of your first "big" deal.6:14 – The Cardiac Arrest Wake-Up Call: Why rental income saved his family.9:29 – Same Docs, Different Doors: Demystifying the complexity of commercial deals.12:49 – Raising Capital: How to find partners who want to win with you.15:18 – Understanding the Cap Stack: Partnerships, Syndications, and BRRRR.22:56 – How to connect with ABG Multifamily.23:27 – The Hindsight Question: What Ashley would have done differently.Legacy MomentAshley explains how properties purchased decades ago are now paying for his father's medical care—proof that the right real estate decisions today can protect your family tomorrow (3:45–4:05). Legacy isn't built by waiting until you have “enough,” but by using the resources and relationships you already have.Ready to Master Multifamily?" If Episode 220 with Michael Root gave you the systems to run a powerhouse, our latest episode with Ashley Garner gives you the mindset and capital strategies to get the keys. Listen to both to complete your multifamily roadmap! Connect with Ashley:Website: https://www.abgmultifamily.com/Contact Number: 910-409-0861Connect with Corwyn:Contact Number: 843-619-3005Instagram:⁠ https://www.instagram.com/exitstrategiesradioshow/⁠FB Page:⁠ https://www.facebook.com/exitstrategiessc/⁠Youtube:⁠ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxoSuynJd5c4qQ_eDXLJaZA⁠Website:⁠ https://www.exitstrategiesradioshow.com⁠Linkedin:⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/cmelette/⁠Shoutout to our Sponsor: Mellifund Capital, LLCNeed funding for your next real estate flip or build? MelliFund Capital makes it fast, flexible, and investor-friendly. Visit MelliFundCapital.com and fund your future today. Again, that's MelliFundCapital.com, M-E-L-L-I-L-U-N-D, Capital.com.

What do you get when you mix startup experience, mother-of-a-newborn energy, and a deeply broken system for working parents?You get Recess.Amy Kiska is the co-founder and CEO of Recess, a platform parents are calling “the Booking.com of kids' activities.” In this episode, she joins Ashley to talk about building a tech company while parenting a newborn, the invisible mental load of managing care coverage, and the bold decision to solve a problem most people don't recognize until they're drowning in it.Amy shares what it took to launch Recess, including fundraising 10 days postpartum, and how she's designing a business that helps families and providers thrive.This conversation covers:The truth about camp registration (and why it feels like the Hunger Games)How Recess supports both parents and activity providersThe underestimated power of mom-foundersBuilding a company without pretending you're doing it aloneAnd why some of the best ideas are born in the bath

What if fertility and reproductive health were treated like skincare or mental health, something we talked about before it became a crisis?In this episode of AND/BOTH, Ashley sits down with Sam Diamond, co‑founder of Bird & Be, to talk about building a clinically‑backed fertility company in the middle of a global pandemic, and why proactive, inclusive fertility care matters more than ever.Sam shares the deeply personal experiences that shaped Bird & Be's mission, including miscarriage, fertility treatment, and the gaps she saw in education, access, and support for both women and men. Together, Ashley and Sam explore why fertility conversations are still too reactive, how male fertility remains stigmatized, and what it looks like to build a company rooted in science, ethics, and care.They also talk about:Launching a startup during COVID — and why at‑home testing was harder than expectedWhy male fertility must be part of every fertility conversationThe shift from “cute” branding to clarity as Bird & Be entered retailWhat it took to land Bird & Be in Ulta — and why placement matteredHow early education and testing can shorten or even prevent long fertility journeysWhy women are not “small men” — and how research still fails women's bodiesBlending motherhood and entrepreneurship without pretending it's balancedThis is a conversation about health, agency, science, and building systems that actually support people, not just sell to them.Connect with Sam: Bird&Be site: https://birdandbe.com/Connect with Ashley:Website: https://www.ashleyblackington.comPodcast website: https://www.andbothpodcast.com/Dovetail® App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dovetail-app/id6744341822Instagram: @mydovetail.appLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyblackington/

This week on AND/BOTH, I'm joined by Nomiki Petrolla, founder of Theanna and a mother of four who is reshaping what early-stage entrepreneurship can look like for women in tech.Nomiki has spent 15 years in the tech world, sitting beside founders, engineers, and venture-backed teams, often as the only woman in the room. That experience eventually led her to build Theanna: a platform designed to support women tech founders from idea to launch.In this episode, we talk about:Why women are turning to entrepreneurship not out of ambition alone, but out of a desire for agencyThe realities of building a startup with four young kidsHow AI is completely changing what's possible for early-stage foundersWhy venture capital isn't the only — or even the most aligned — path for most entrepreneursThe difference between building your first business for money and your later ones for meaningHow motherhood sharpens clarity, decision-making, and boundariesWhat Nomiki is noticing about the next wave of women building techSustainable entrepreneurship vs. the unicorn mythology we've all absorbedIt's a conversation about choosing your own path, understanding your season, and building something that fits your actual life, not a version of life you're supposed to pretend you have.Connect with Nomiki:Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn: @nomikipetrollaTheanna: @theannaioConnect with Ashley:Website: https://www.ashleyblackington.comPodcast website: https://www.andbothpodcast.com/Dovetail® App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dovetail-app/id6744341822Instagram: @mydovetail.appLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyblackington/

She had everything she was told would make her happy. So why did it feel like a cage?   Ashley Jordan built a life that looked perfect on paper. The dream house. The marriage. The career as an activist. A life that looked enviable from the outside. The result … feeling absolutely caged on the inside.   She walked away from it all. The marriage to a good man. The activist career. The friendships that couldn't handle her evolution. And she rebuilt everything from the inside out based on who she actually is, not who she was told to be. This isn't a story about dramatic betrayal or abuse. It's about the quiet  suffocation of living a life that isn't yours. The terror of leaving safety for the unknown. The death of your ego when you stop performing goodness and start embodying truth.   This conversation captures the messy, beautiful journey of unbecoming. Of stripping away every mask to find the truest self underneath. Of walking away from a good man and a good career because good wasn't enough. Of losing friendships that couldn't survive her transformation. Of discovering that grief is actually love calling you home.   Ashley shares the raw truth about:

In this solo episode, I'm taking a moment to pause, look back on Season 9, and share what's coming as we head into a new year and our tenth season of the AND/BOTH podcast.This season brought so many meaningful conversations on the mental load, the realities of modern motherhood, how we build community, what comfort and safety look like in hard seasons, and the ways we try (and often fail) to carry less than we're used to. We also continued our roundtable series, with thoughtful, deeply resonant conversations about grief and holiday burnout that so many of you reached out about.I talk through:The themes that kept surfacing across episodesWhat these conversations revealed about burnout, expectations, and the pace we're all trying to keepThe “colander list” moment with my friend Meg and why it hit me squarely in the chestWhat it's been like to grow a tech company, run a podcast, and raise four kids during a very full seasonWhy we're taking a short break before Season 10What you can expect when we return in the new yearAnd I share an invitation: if you've listened to the show and haven't yet heard your version of motherhood reflected, I would love to bring more voices and stories into the mix. You can submit a guest interest form at andbothpodcast.com.We'll be back in January with Season 10—rested, reset, and ready for the next chapter.Wishing you a holiday season with at least one hot coffee, a moment of actual rest, and something small that fills your cup.Connect with Ashley:Website: https://www.ashleyblackington.comPodcast website: https://www.andbothpodcast.com/Dovetail® App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dovetail-app/id6744341822Instagram: @mydovetail.appLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyblackington/

This week on AND/BOTH, I'm joined by Lauryn Warnick, CEO and founder of Villain Branding. Lauryn shares how she went from film school to tech startups to leading a verbal-first brand consultancy—and how the business has grown and shifted alongside marriage, motherhood, and the many seasons real life brings.We talk about:Building a business that doesn't pretend life at home is pausedWhy B2B storytelling has more impact (and heart) than most people expectWorking with a spouse and figuring out routines that actually workThe pressure of being the primary income earner while raising young kidsMoving away from “balance” and toward navigating what each season asks of youThe Disney moment that unexpectedly reframed flexibility, boundaries, and perspectiveThis episode is full of the conversations that don't always make it into the highlight reel—how we work, how we parent, and how we keep adjusting the picture as life keeps changing.Connect with Lauryn:Website: www.villainbranding.comLinkedIn: Lauryn WarnickConnect with Ashley:Website: https://www.ashleyblackington.comPodcast website: https://www.andbothpodcast.com/Dovetail® App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dovetail-app/id6744341822Instagram: @mydovetail.appLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyblackington/

In this episode, I'm joined by Brea Starmer, founder of Lions & Tigers, a company she started after being laid off while seven months pregnant and serving as her family's primary income. What began as survival quickly became a new way of thinking about work: flexible, skilled, sustainable, and built around real life.We talk about the myth of stability in traditional employment, why so many women and caregivers are pushed to the margins, and how blended teams and fractional work are giving people more agency than ever before.And of course, we talk about the real-life side of it all- parenting, logistics, exhaustion, boundaries, and the seasons where everything feels like “a lot”… and also deeply purposeful.In this episode:The layoff that sparked Lions & TigersHow Brea built her own maternity leave through freelance workWhy blended teams are becoming essential in enterprise companiesHow AI, caregiving, and shifting workplace norms are reshaping careersWhat it actually looks like to build a business while raising three kidsThe skill of knowing what's worth your time (and what you can let fall through the colander)Connect with Brea:Lions & Tigers: lionsandtigers.comWorkforce Reimagined studyConnect with Brea on LinkedInConnect with Ashley:Website: https://www.ashleyblackington.comPodcast website: https://www.andbothpodcast.com/Dovetail® App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dovetail-app/id6744341822Instagram: @mydovetail.appLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyblackington/

November Roundtable: The Holiday Overwhelm Episode with Paige Connell & Allie McQuaidThe holidays are supposed to feel warm and joyful- but for most moms, they also come with nonstop logistics, emotional labor, and a running mental checklist that never really turns off. And for millennial moms especially, the expectations feel higher than ever.In this month's roundtable, Erin Holland (PG-ish Podcast) and I are joined by Paige Connell (@sheisapageturner) and Allie McQuaid (@millennialmomtherapist) for a conversation that goes right into the thick of it: the mental load, the pressure to make things magical, the generational friction that shows up the minute you walk into a family gathering, and the complicated mix of joy and burnout that this season brings.In this episode we cover:Why the holidays hit so hard when your plate was already full in JulyThe “fun mom” pressure and why it doesn't make sense, when you're the one noticing, planning, packing, and rememberingHow early messaging around anger and emotions shows up again in motherhoodThe emotional gymnastics of blended families, divorced parenting, and juggling multiple householdsWhy social media intensifies holiday expectations (and how to spot what's actual life vs. content creation)What our kids really remember and why it's almost never the expensive or elaborate stuffHow to rethink traditions, drop the “shoulds,” and pay attention to what actually brings joy or easeThe permission to let this year look different than last year (or any year)It's honest, relatable, a little funny, and full of the kind of “oh right, it's not just me” moments that make the holidays feel a little more doable.Listen in, especially if the season feels like a lot before it's even started.Connect with Paige and Allie:Paige Connell — @sheisapageturnerAllie McQuaid — @millennialmomtherapistConnect with Ashley:Website: https://www.ashleyblackington.comPodcast website: https://www.andbothpodcast.com/Dovetail® App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dovetail-app/id6744341822Instagram: @mydovetail.appLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyblackington/

In this episode, I sit down with Kendra Koch, the founder of Divergently, a private community built for late-diagnosed neurodivergent women who want clarity, support, and a softer landing than the internet usually offers.Kendra came to this work through her own late diagnosis, years spent in the Silicon Valley wellness world, and a growing sense that the tools available to neurodivergent women were either too shallow, too loud, or too overwhelming to actually use. What started as her personal search for answers eventually became Divergently- a curated, trauma-aware space built to help women understand themselves and make daily life feel less chaotic and more doable.We cover a lot in this conversation, including:What it feels like to receive a diagnosis later in lifeWhy so many women only start connecting the dots after their kids begin evaluationsThe emotional and logistical realities of navigating care, systems, stigma, and uncertaintyHow trauma keeps showing up in ways many of us don't expectThe difference between “having information” and actually being supportedWhy “just disclose at work” isn't simple — or safe — advice for everyoneHow creating boundaries inside a community can be what makes it truly inclusiveThe small, practical shifts that make life less prickly: body doubling, environmental tweaks, lowering the bar in smart, supportive waysAnd how Kendra is building a company while raising a young child, healing, and moving at a pace that fits her real life — not the one hustle culture demandsThis conversation is thoughtful, honest, and full of moments that made me rethink how we support ourselves and each other. If you've ever felt like something wasn't quite adding up, or you've been searching for a place that feels safe and steady, you'll feel seen here.Where to find Kendra:Website: joinedivergently.comSocial: @joinedivergentlyLinkedIn: Kendra KochConnect with Ashley:Website: https://www.ashleyblackington.comPodcast website: https://www.andbothpodcast.com/Dovetail® App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dovetail-app/id6744341822Instagram: @mydovetail.appLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyblackington/

In this episode, I'm thrilled to sit down with Ashley Knapp, infusion nurse and co-founder of Local Infusion, to discuss how ambulatory infusion centers are revolutionizing MS treatment. We explore why infusions for multiple sclerosis (MS) are often easier, more affordable, and more comfortable when done at outpatient infusion centers compared to hospitals. Ashley shares expert insights on gaining faster access to MS infusion therapies like Tysabri, Ocrevus, and Briumvi, plus how Local Infusion is setting up possibilities for overcoming common barriers like transportation and insurance authorizations. If you're seeking practical strategies to improve your MS care, reduce costs, and enjoy a better patient experience, this episode is packed with resources to empower your MS journey, boost your quality of life, and help you stay consistent with your treatment! About Ashley Knapp:  Ashley Knapp is co-founder of Local Infusion and a registered nurse with over 13 years of experience in the infusion industry. Ashley started her career as an infusion nurse, specifically caring for patients with multiple sclerosis, and has since built local infusion into a rapidly expanding network of over 30 ambulatory infusion centers across nine states. Resources mentioned in the episode: Getting Started with Local Infusion: https://mylocalinfusion.com/get-started/ Connect with Ashley: Website: https://mylocalinfusion.com/ Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com Website: www.MSingLink.com Social: ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

For more than 100 episodes, AND/BOTH has shared conversations with women navigating identity, care, and capacity — and this week, the conversation widens.In this episode, I sit down with Michael Perry, founder and CEO of Maple, to talk about what it means to be part of what he calls “the transition generation” — a time when fathers are learning to show up differently, families are renegotiating what partnership looks like, and the systems that support us are still catching up.Michael is a father of two, a husband, and a founder who's building technology designed to make the invisible work of family visible, to help parents collaborate better, share responsibilities, and stay connected in the chaos.We talk about what's shifting in modern parenthood, what's still broken, and how we can bring more empathy, participation, and grace into our homes, without turning our families into another project to manage.

In this episode, I sit down with Jennifer Westpfahl, founder of Be.Retreats, to talk about what it looks like to build a life and a business that make space for rest, intention, stillness, and connection — and how those four pillars spell something else entirely: RISK.Jennifer shares the winding story of how B-Retreats came to life, not from a business plan or a strategic vision, but from a feeling that just wouldn't go away. What began as a simple women's weekend at a cabin has evolved into a growing series of in-person and virtual retreats designed to help people slow down, reconnect, and live with more authenticity.We talk about:

In this episode, Ashley Kehr shares her journey from being an accountant to a successful real estate investor. She discusses her first property experience, the importance of partnerships, and creative financing strategies. Ashley emphasizes the significance of documenting everything in property management and shares insights on investing in different markets, particularly the Midwest. She also explores the joy of both short-term rentals and long-term investments, providing valuable advice for aspiring investors, especially women in the real estate space.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Real Estate Investing Journey02:02 Starting with the First Rental Property05:02 Transitioning from Accounting to Full-Time Investing08:02 Overcoming Challenges in Real Estate12:01 Creative Financing Strategies19:11 Navigating Risks in Real Estate Investments24:06 Evaluating Property Investments for Long-Term Gains28:34 Investing with Intention: The Condo Dilemma30:12 Exploring Out-of-State Investments32:55 The Art of Rehabbing Properties37:40 Balancing Short-Term and Long-Term Rentals39:30 Navigating HOAs and Property Management42:28 Documenting Everything: A Key to Success46:51 Future Goals: Live-In Flips and Portfolio Growth50:11 Final Reflections: Work Hard, Enjoy LifeConnect with Ashley:Website: https://www.ashleykehr.com/Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-estate-rookie/id1499646507Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wealthfromrentalsBook: https://www.amazon.com/Real-Estate-Rookie-First-Investment/dp/1947200844Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/RealEstateRookieConnect with The Women On Top: Follow The Women On Top Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts. Subscribe for more empowering conversations and stories! Website: https://thewomenontop.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/ ⁨@thewomenontop⁩ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewomenontoppodcast/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-lynn/

In this second half of my 100th episode conversation with my friend and poet Megan Leonard, we talk about what happens when we finally start letting go of what's not working.We call it The Colander List — a way of noticing what's naturally slipping through, what's too heavy to hold, and what we might finally have permission to set down.This conversation isn't about getting more efficient or organized. It's about capacity, trust, and the space we create when we stop trying to do it all.Meg and I talk about:

For our 100th episode, Ashley sits down (in person!) with longtime friend and poet Megan (Meg) Leonard to talk about the beginnings of AND/BOTH, the early days of motherhood, and the stubborn, beautiful work of staying true to yourself when life keeps changing. From stroller walks and kindergarten drop-offs to building creative work in the cracks of a very full life, this episode is a love letter to friendship, identity, and choosing what actually works for you.In the first part of this conversation we cover:Finding your people in the lonely early seasons of motherhoodBuilding a creative life alongside caregiving and paid workThe tiny windows of time that move big projects forward“Ghost in a meat suit on a space rock” energy—picking what mattersWhy one good friend can be more than enoughConnect with Megan:Megan Leonard, poet & writing mentorInstagram: @megan_leonardpoetryBooks: Book of Lullabies (Milk & Cake Press) and Larkspur Queen (Bramble Stone Books)1:1 Writing Mentorship: DM Meg on Instagram; mention AND/BOTH for her 2025 pricing if you book your intake before Dec 31Connect with Ashley:Website: https://www.ashleyblackington.comPodcast website: https://www.andbothpodcast.com/Dovetail® App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dovetail-app/id6744341822Instagram: @mydovetail.appLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyblackington/

Becoming a mother changed everything for Kim Richards, not just her routines, her priorities, or her sleep schedule (though all of that, too), but her sense of identity. And like many moms, she found herself wondering: If I'm the one taking care of everyone, who's taking care of me?In this episode, Kim shares the story behind Caring for Mama, a mission-led business she built to remind caregivers — especially mothers — that they deserve care, too.This conversation covers the real and often unspoken truths of motherhood, identity shifts, invisible labor, and what it means to put yourself back in the center of your own life.Whether you're a mom, caregiver, or someone who's felt the tension between giving and needing help yourself, this episode is a gentle nudge to stop minimizing your own needs.In this episode we cover: How Kim went from barely surviving postpartum to building a company around careWhy having help and still feeling alone is more common than we thinkThe invisible mental load of caregiving and the toll it takesReclaiming small moments of self — and why they matter more than we give them credit forWhat support can look like (beyond casseroles and baby clothes)Connect with KimConnect with Kim: @caringformamaLearn more about Caring for Mama: caringformama.orgConnect with Ashley:Website: https://www.ashleyblackington.comPodcast website: https://www.andbothpodcast.com/Dovetail® App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dovetail-app/id6744341822Instagram: @mydovetail.appLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyblackington/

You know that moment when you realize the life you've built no longer fits, and it's time to choose yourself, even if it's messy?Renée Bauer knows it well. As a seasoned divorce lawyer (23 years in the game) and someone who's walked through two divorces herself, she brings a rare combination of personal insight and professional clarity to a topic we don't talk about enough -> what happens when you choose to leave.In this conversation, we talk about:Why disconnection, not drama, is what really ends relationshipsThe surprising trends in modern divorces (yes, politics are now a factor)What happens when one partner evolves — and the other doesn'tWhy every woman (married or not) should have financial independenceAnd how Renée still believes in love, even after all she's seenWe also get into therapy shame, social media's role in our relationship breakdowns, and why balance is a myth — but movement is medicine.If you've ever questioned your relationship, your choices, or what comes next, take a listen.Connect with Renée:Instagram: @msreneebauerHappy Even After Family Law Instagram: @happy.even.afterDownload Renée's free divorce workbook: familylawyerct.comRenée's book: She Who Wins — available wherever you buy booksConnect with Ashley:Website: https://www.ashleyblackington.comPodcast website: https://www.andbothpodcast.com/Dovetail® App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dovetail-app/id6744341822Instagram: @mydovetail.appLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyblackington/Nurtured Entrepreneur Course: https://andbothcompany.com/Nurturedentrepreneur

In this episode of Mindful Mondays, Ashley explores how nature helps us move through overwhelm and restore balance. From the science of the “happiness chemicals”—dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, and endorphins—to the practices of grounding and awe, discover how the natural world regulates our nervous system and reconnects us with presence and purpose. This week's guided meditation, Walking Off the Storm, takes you on a deeply descriptive, awe-filled journey through nature to release stress and return to calm.Ashley Bentley is an integrative coach, breathwork facilitator, and clinical hypnotherapist. She is also the in-house therapist for The Neurodivergent Experience podcast and a teacher on Insight Timer, where she shares meditations, courses, and live events to support presence, resilience, and connection. ✨ Connect with Ashley:

What if the patterns you keep bumping up against aren't actually you—but simply habits your mind has learned to run on repeat?In this episode, I'm joined by Kristyn Livermore, director of West End Hypnosis, who shares her journey from being a client herself to building a practice that helps people rewire unhelpful patterns, step out of autopilot, and reconnect with their own sense of choice.Kristyn opens up about:How hypnosis helped her rebuild confidence, release old patterns, and make lasting changeWhy “all hypnosis is self-hypnosis” and what that really meansThe difference between talk therapy and hypnosis, and how they can complement each otherTools for creating mental space when life feels overwhelmingWhy awareness is the first step to shifting into new ways of thinking and livingWhether you're curious about hypnosis, looking for practical ways to step out of survival mode, or just want to hear an honest conversation about growth and change, this episode will leave you with fresh perspective (and maybe a few tools to try today).Connect with Kristyn:

Routines can be a lifeline for neurodivergent brains — creating safety, reducing decision fatigue, and bringing balance to daily life. But when structure becomes too rigid, it can tip into pressure and burnout. In this episode of Mindful Mondays with Ashley Bentley, we explore how to build supportive routines that steady you without imprisoning you, weaving in rhythm and play so life feels both grounded and alive. You'll also be guided through a soothing meditation that helps you reimagine your routines as flexible, life-giving scaffolding — steady enough to hold you, soft enough to bend.✨ Connect with Ashley:

What happens when motherhood collides with ambition and the systems around us weren't built to support either?This week, Ashley sits down with Dr. Anne Welsh, a clinical psychologist, executive coach, mom of four, and advocate for working parents. Anne's career has spanned maternal mental health, coaching women in male-dominated industries, and consulting with organizations that are (finally) starting to realize they need to do more for their working parents.In this episode, they explore:Why balance is less of a steady state and more of a constant danceHow ambition shifts and sharpens after becoming a momThe hidden costs of workplaces that frame caregiving as an “individual problem”Why so many women leave corporate life, and what might make them stayThe cultural shift happening as younger parents demand flexibility and supportAnne's perspective is both deeply personal and big-picture. This conversation is a reminder that change starts with one voice—but it doesn't have to end there.

Today's episode goes behind the scenes with my roundtable cohost, Erin, host of the PG-ish Podcast. Even though we live on opposite sides of the country and have never met in person, Erin and I can dive into honest conversations and share truths that aren't often talked about. We chat about our own podcasts, motherhood, where we're heading next, and what's fueling these episodes. We believe that community, whether virtual or in-person, truly matters, and we hope to share that community with you, the listener, as well.Show links: • Erin: PG-ish PodcastListen to our roundtables: ◦ Episode 75: Caregiving, Careers & the Cost of Being "Fine" ◦ Episode 79: From Lost to Found: How Moms are Redefining Identity & Belonging ◦ Episode 85: Burned Out? How to Redefine Success in Work and Motherhood ◦ Episode 91: The Emotional Cost of Doing It AllConnect with Ashley:Website: https://www.ashleyblackington.comPodcast website: https://www.andbothpodcast.com/Dovetail® App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dovetail-app/id6744341822Instagram: @mydovetail.appLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyblackington/

How often do you catch yourself thinking I should… or I have to…? In this episode of Mindful Mondays with Ashley Bentley, we explore how the language of pressure and judgment fuels shame, burnout, and disconnection — especially for neurodivergent minds. Ashley shares powerful reframes to shift should into could and have to into get to, restoring choice, gratitude, and presence. You'll also be guided through a calming yoga nidra-inspired meditation to release expectations and reconnect with freedom and agency.✨ Connect with Ashley:

Career. Parenthood. Flexibility. For so long, we've been told these choices are black and white- either you stay in the workforce full-time or you step away completely.This week's episode features Kaleana Quibbell, a mom and corporate veteran who is challenging that story. After leaving her corporate career in internal benefits consulting, Kaleana built a new path as a part-time consultant and mom of two and in the process, she discovered countless other parents designing careers that don't fit the old mold.Kaleana founded Both And, a storytelling platform where parents share their journeys of reimagining work—whether that means consulting, freelancing, part-time roles, job-sharing, or simply advocating for more flexibility at work.In this conversation, we explore:Why work and parenthood don't have to be either/orThe fears and freedom of leaving corporate lifeHow consulting and part-time work can keep parents connected and relevantThe importance of separating your expertise from your employer's nameWhy companies need to rethink flexibility if they want to keep great talentKaleana's perspective is honest, practical, and deeply encouraging. She reminds us that there's no one right way to combine work and family—and that we all benefit from seeing what's possible.Connect with Kaleana:Website: bothand.coInstagram: @bothand.coLinkedIn: Both AndConnect with Ashley:Website: https://www.ashleyblackington.comAND/BOTH Community: https://www.andbothpodcast.com/andboth-communityDovetail® App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dovetail-app/id6744341822Instagram: @dovetailappLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyblackington/

What if time isn't your enemy, but a rhythm you can learn to flow with? In this episode of Mindful Mondays with Ashley Bentley, we delve into time blindness, rushing, and the “hurry-up driver” that can trigger panic in neurodivergent brains. Ashley reframes time as a dance partner, not a deadline, and shares practices for syncing with your body's natural rhythms. Plus, enjoy a guided meditation to release urgency and discover presence inside each moment.✨ Connect with Ashley:

If you grew up in the 80s or 90s, you probably remember “the talk”, one awkward, fluorescent-lit conversation at school or a quick birds-and-bees download from your parents. But as parents today, we know it doesn't work like that anymore.In this episode of AND/BOTH, I sit down with returning guest Angie Enger, a sex and self-intimacy coach, parent, and former teen clinic sex ed teacher, to talk about what it really looks like to have ongoing conversations with our kids about sex, consent, bodies, and relationships.We cover:Why you've probably already started “the talk” without realizing itHow to move beyond mechanics to values, boundaries, and consentThe role of partners (and why these aren't just “mom conversations”)What to do when kids bring home confusing or surprising languageHow to find trusted resources and other adults to support these conversationsWhy messing up or changing your answer later is not only okay, but healthyWhether you're parenting a curious five-year-old or a tween who suddenly knows more slang than you do, this conversation is here to remind you: you don't have to be perfect, you just have to keep showing up.Resources Mentioned:TalkMore.org — conversation guides, age-appropriate tips, book listsMagnificent Sex (book by Peggy J. Kleinplatz & A. Dana Ménard)The Pregnant Body Book (DK Publishing)Recommended children's books on body parts and puberty (Angie suggests buying both the “penis” and “vulva” versions!)About Angie:Angie Enger is a sex and self-intimacy coach with a background in counseling and human sexuality. She works with individuals and couples to strengthen their relationships with themselves and each other. Angie is also a parent navigating these conversations in real life, and she brings both expertise and lived experience to the table.Connect with Angie: http://angieenger.com orhttps://www.instagram.com/angieengercoachConnect with Ashley:Website: https://www.ashleyblackington.comPodcast website: https://www.andbothpodcast.com/AND/BOTH Community: https://www.andbothpodcast.com/andboth-communityDovetail® App: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dovetail-app/id6744341822Instagram: @andboth_podcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyblackington/Support AND/BOTH: Help us offset production costs while we're growing

In this episode, I'm joined by Ashley Milas, a trauma-informed somatic grief and life transition coach who specializes in helping people process chronic illness grief—especially when traditional talk therapy just isn't working. We dive deep into why grief is often overlooked when living with multiple sclerosis (MS), how somatic work can support your healing, and practical ways to process emotions through your body and nervous system. Ashley shares her 13+ year journey with chronic illness, offering insights and compassionate strategies to help you reconnect with yourself and find acceptance, even in the face of MS-related loss and change. Tune in for an uplifting conversation packed with actionable tips, tools, and resources to help you manage MS symptoms, navigate emotional challenges, and improve your quality of life with MS. About Ashley: Ashley Milus is a certified wellness coach and meditation and mindfulness teacher. Ashley's work is focused on improving the lives of those living with chronic illness. She helps people learn how to live life with illness in a way that supports their well-being and keeps them thriving. She acts as a guide to help navigate the physical, mental and emotional challenges that arise. Her intention is to help people find joy, inspiration, self-empowerment, healing and peace so that they may live a life of well-being." Connect with Ashley: Website: https://www.ashleymilus.com/ Free 45 minute consultation: https://www.ashleymilus.com/book-a-session Additional Resources: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/insider Reach out to Me: hello@doctorgretchenhawley.com Website: www.MSingLink.com Social: ★ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/mswellness ★ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctor.gretchen ★ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/doctorgretchenhawley?sub_confirmation=1 → Game Changers Course: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/GameChangersCourse → Total Core Program: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TotalCoreProgram → The MSing Link: https://www.doctorgretchenhawley.com/TheMSingLink

In today's episode of Psych Talk I chat with Dr. Ashley Smith, licensed psychologist, speaker, and author about the science of happiness. Dr. Ashley starts the discussion by discussing how she got interested in the science of happiness and positive psychology in general. Dr. Ashely defines for listeners what happiness is and discusses the science of happiness and what research say about factors that influence a person's happiness. We discuss how can individuals find happiness in their life, even when circumstances seem hopeless or challenging and how facing adversity impacts our happiness. Dr. Ashley then discusses how other positive psychological constructs such as psychological strength, resilience, and confidence relate to happiness and provides listeners with some actionable steps individuals can take in their daily life to increase their happiness.Connect with Dr. Ashley:Website: www.drashleysmith.comLinkedIn: Dr. Ashley SmithInstagram: @drashleysmithTikTok: @drashleysmithBook: The Way I See ItConnect with Me:Follow me on IG ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@jessicaleighphd⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow the podcast on IG ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@psych.talk.podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on TikTok ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@jessicaleighphd⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow me on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow me on Threads ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@jessicaleighphd⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Welcome to Group Therapy Podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join my Facebook community: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Grow Through What You Go Through⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Ways to Work With Me:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Mind Over Matter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LGBTQ+ Affirming Masterclass⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Be a guest on my podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Resources:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Anti-Racism Resources⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LGBTQ+ Affirming Resources⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Helping Professional's Guide to Boundary Setting⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Intro/Outro Music⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Life of Riley⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ by Kevin MacLeod⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Music License⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

What happens when your capacity looks different every single day, but your business still has to keep moving forward?In this episode of Business with Chronic Illness, I'm joined by Ashley Carlson, an agency owner, mom of two, and chronic illness advocate, to talk about the hard but freeing truth: you can do anything, but you can't do everything.Ashley opens up about building and growing her agency while navigating multiple chronic illness diagnoses, monthly IVIG infusions, and the everyday realities of parenting. She shares how she's redefined productivity, learned to ask for help, and built systems that allow her business to run even when she needs to rest.By the end of this episode, you'll walk away with:Practical systems for sustainability – why delegation, accountability, and team support make your business more resilient.A new way to define success – learning how to honor today's 100% (even if it looks different from yesterday).Permission to rest without guilt – shifting out of the perfectionism trap and embracing flexibility in life and business.Ashley's story is a reminder that running a business with chronic illness is not about pushing harder—it's about creating support, sustainability, and joy along the way.Connect with Ashley:Website: https://www.elevatevbsolutions.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/elevatevbsolutions/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleymcarlson/Leave us a Review and share this episode with a friend.Send Me A Text & Share Your QA's or ThoughtsJoin The 5-Day Audio Series - Rooted Sales Loved this episode? Leave a review: https://www.craftedtothrive.com/reviews/new/Products We Love + Special Guest Gifts → Want to support the show and treat yourself? We've created a quick-access list of products I personally use and love, exclusive savings from podcast guests, and other gems that can help you live well and do business with chronic illness. Explore our faves + savings here!Subscribe HERE to Chronically Profitable, A free, exclusive email series that shows you how to sell with self-trust, create content that converts, and use long-form strategies, especially podcasting, to attract dream clients consistently, even during the ups and downs of business and life. You'll learn how to build a rhythm that helps you sell even while you rest.To Start and Grow A Creative or Service-Based Business with Chronic Illness, Join