• Episode 188-- Monica Mangelson -- Connection, Leadership, and Embracing Change
    Oct 24 2024

    Monica Mangelson, a certified life coach with a fervor for neuroscience and adventure, joins us on the Stacked Keys Podcast to share how an understanding of the brain can transform personal growth journeys, especially for individuals with ADHD. Discover how Monica’s blend of psychology, applied neuroscience, and real-world experiences create a powerful toolkit for setting goals and staying motivated with the help of external reminders. We explore life coaching as a forward-moving practice, distinct from therapy, that steers individuals from where they are to where they aspire to be.

    We also delve into Monica's transformative journey from a conservative upbringing to a minimalist, nomadic lifestyle. Our conversation highlights the emotional and financial benefits of flexible living, the importance of genuine connections over material possessions, and the art of balancing personal and professional life on the road. Monica's insights into maintaining relationships while traveling and her commitment to a minimalist lifestyle underscore the power of living with intention and embracing change as a digital nomad.

    Explore the complexities of leadership and the importance of following one's intuition. Monica shares her experiences of finding love through shared adventures, trusting gut instincts, and maintaining positivity despite entrepreneurial challenges. We discuss leading by example, the subtleties of guiding others without imposing beliefs, and the joy of living authentically. Join us for a light-hearted, yet profound conversation that embodies the spirit of stomping to your own rhythm and embracing life’s unpredictable journey with courage and grace.

    Music "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

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    1 hr and 1 min
  • Episode 187-- Chelsea Spurlin -- Balancing Family Life and Jiu-Jitsu: Embracing Emotional Intelligence and Personal Growth
    Oct 21 2024

    Imagine navigating the chaos of a sleepless night and a hectic morning, only to emerge victorious in a jujitsu competition with your children cheering you on. Meet Chelsea Spurlin, a devoted stay-at-home mom, wife, and jujitsu athlete, shares this triumphant moment with us. Her story is one of resilience, balancing the demands of family life with personal ambitions and showing her kids the importance of emotional intelligence. Chelsea, who sees herself as an "emotional scientist," reveals her unique approach to nurturing her children's communication and confidence, underscoring how these lessons overlap with the discipline of jujitsu.

    Throughout this heartfelt episode, we explore the complex dance of managing emotions and logic in both parenting and martial arts. We discuss the parallels between the two, highlighting the inevitable discomforts and the importance of remaining calm amidst chaos. Drawing from personal experiences, she shares insights on prioritizing children's needs and learning to accept situations as they are. We also reflect on the mental reset and sense of community that jujitsu provides, extending a supportive network beyond the confines of home. This discussion celebrates the power of open communication and the validation of feelings, even when solutions aren't immediately apparent.

    In closing, we jump into the transformative journey of embracing truth and personal growth. Chelsea's experiences in Jiu-Jitsu offer a lens through which we explore self-discovery, resilience, and the pursuit of new adventures. We discuss the importance of setting and reassessing goals, alongside the beauty of acknowledging one's true worth and potential. Join in for an inspiring conversation that champions the strength of women navigating multiple roles, encouraging listeners to embrace their unique qualities and the empowering pursuit of intentional growth.

    Music "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

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    58 mins
  • Episode 186 -- Geomyra Pollard -- Empowering Women Entrepreneurs and Redefining Life Balance
    Oct 2 2024

    What happens when a successful wedding planner decides to pivot her career and empower other creative entrepreneurs? Discover the transformative journey of Geomyra Pollard as she transitions from orchestrating dream weddings to coaching women in building profitable and fulfilling businesses. Geomyra's mission is more than just about business success; it's about living a well-rounded life. She shares her unique perspective as a cheerleader and advocate, discussing the roles of intuition, accountability, and supportive networks in personal and professional growth.

    Ever felt like the pressure to balance everything perfectly is just too much? Join us as we shift the narrative from chasing balance to finding a rhythm that aligns with life's ever-changing seasons. Through heartfelt stories, including the impact of personal loss, we stress the importance of setting priorities, boundaries, and the power of outsourcing. We also tackle the often-taboo topic of failure, exploring how societal pressures and social media can distort our relationship with it. Embracing failure and learning to navigate through fear can be pivotal in shaping our resilience and future successes.

    Finally, we dive into the practicalities of modern life, from parenting in the digital age to managing a growing business alongside family responsibilities. We discuss the significance of setting and respecting boundaries. Discover the value of quality over quantity, and learn how to align your personal and professional life with your true passions. As we wrap up, we offer insights on fostering authentic interactions using tools like the Enneagram personality test, and we reflect on the joy of connecting with others through spontaneous and meaningful conversations. Join us in celebrating the art of beautifully surviving life together.

    Music "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

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    1 hr and 8 mins
  • Episode 185-- Rachel Wolnski -- Finding Joy in Everyday Moments
    Sep 23 2024

    Ever wondered how to balance creativity and motherhood? This episode of the Stacked Keys Podcast features Rachel Wolnski, a passionate homemaker and homeschooling mother of four boys, who transitioned from a career in graphic design to full-time motherhood. Rachel shares her journey, discussing how her childhood love for creativity shapes her daily routines, from teaching her boys to preparing meals. We jump into the joys and hurdles she faces while creating a nurturing home environment and making intentional lifestyle choices alongside her husband.

    Rachel also opens up about the unique challenges and rewards of homeschooling through faith and personal conviction. She talks about the importance of allowing others to speak truth into our lives and finding confidence in our choices, even when they diverge from societal norms. We tackle common insecurities, such as comparing our children's activities and social experiences with others, and discuss the impact of seeking guidance and focusing on what truly matters for our families.

    Balancing personal aspirations, community involvement, and the demanding responsibilities of raising multiple children is no small feat. Rachel candidly reflects on the feelings of failure and guilt that can arise when struggling to meet expectations. Through heartfelt conversations, we emphasize prioritizing family, being transparent about our limitations, and finding peace in the unique contributions we make. Whether you're a mother, a homeschooler, or seeking inspiration, Rachel's story offers invaluable wisdom and encouragement. It's also a reminder to encourage those around us because we have no idea of what they have as their challenges, their gifts and their opportunities.

    Music "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

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    52 mins
  • Episode 184 -- Kimmie Bothwell -- Finding Mental Clarity in the Simple Pleasures of Life
    Sep 10 2024

    Ever wondered how raising chickens could positively impact your mental health? In this uplifting International Women's Day episode, we sit down with the multifaceted Kimmie Bothwell, a Physical Therapist Assistant and passionate watercolor artist, who shares her journey of self-discovery and resilience. From her professional endeavors to her unexpected happiness as a chicken parent, Kimmie reveals the therapeutic benefits these feathered friends bring to her busy life. The conversation weaves through personal growth stories and the celebration of women’s diverse contributions beyond traditional roles.

    Kimmie's insights on balancing productivity and self-care will strike a chord with anyone juggling multiple hats. We dive into the importance of self-talk, the subtle power of shifting perspectives, and how embracing simple joys can replenish our mental health. The episode is rich with relatable anecdotes, from the challenges of maintaining emotional well-being to the significance of finding "white spaces" in our schedules for better mental clarity. By sharing her reflections on failure and resilience, Kimmie offers a fresh look at personal growth during the pandemic.

    Join us as we explore the complexities of relationships, the joys and struggles of marriage, and the importance of supportive communities. From navigating artistic journeys in a digital age to addressing mental health openly, this episode is filled with wisdom and practical advice. Kimmie’s story is a testament to the strength and diversity of women’s lives, reminding us all to find joy in the little things and to support each other in our individual journeys.

    Music "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

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    1 hr and 9 mins
  • Episode 183 -- Heather Jo Clark -- Navigating Adversity and Discovering Inner Strength
    Aug 22 2024

    What if a career-ending injury could be the start of a new, even more fulfilling journey? Discover Heather Jo Clark's inspiring transformation from a professional MMA fighter to the first solely female-owned 10th Planet Jiu-Jitsu gym owner. You'll hear how she navigated the intense world of UFC and Bellator, only to pivot into a leadership role that empowers others to find their inner strength. Heather Jo's story is a testament to resilience and reinvention, offering valuable lessons for anyone facing life's unexpected turns.

    Heather Jo takes us back to her early days where her father's encouragement led her from hockey rinks to MMA cages. At 28, she found herself diving into the world of mixed martial arts, blending her athleticism with a newfound passion for combat sports. This episode uncovers the mental and physical demands that shaped Heather Jo's relentless drive, and how these experiences set the stage for her successful career in fighting and beyond. From concussions to the complexities of brain health, Heather Jo shares the struggles and triumphs that have defined her journey.

    But there's more to Heather Jo than just fighting. She opens up about her interests in homeopathic healing, meditation, and the therapeutic potential of psychedelics. Heather Jo discusses the importance of overcoming fear, embracing challenges, and maintaining a positive mindset through adversity. Whether you're drawn to combat sports, personal development, or holistic wellness, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration from a true pioneer. Heather Jo's journey into sound healing and her reflections on life's profound mysteries make this a must-listen. Join us and learn how to turn adversity into an opportunity for growth and resilience.

    Music "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

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    1 hr and 13 mins
  • Episode 182 -- Lana Hebert -- Building Relationships and Business
    Jul 27 2024

    What happens when a middle school teacher swaps chalkboards for crafting? This week, we uncover Lana Hebert remarkable journey from teaching seventh and eighth graders to launching her own boutique, the Lil' Farmhouse Market, in Wetumpka's downtown. Lana's knack for creating t-shirts, baked goods, and soaps during the COVID-19 shutdown not only kept her busy but also ignited a passion that eventually grew into a flourishing business. Lana shares the heartwarming story of her leap into entrepreneurship, supported by a tight-knit community and driven by personal enthusiasm.

    Lana’s story isn’t just about business; it's about fostering real, impactful relationships. We chat about the delicate balance of being an introvert who thrives on meaningful connections, and how simple gestures like a warm greeting can brighten someone's day. Grounded by her spiritual beliefs, Lana's approach to business focuses on self-improvement and relationship-building rather than cutthroat competition. Our conversation highlights how this ethos enhances customer experiences and cultivates a supportive community environment.

    We also navigate through more profound themes of leadership, faith, and effective communication. From dealing with anxiety and the pain of loss to the importance of leading with humility and heart, Lana offers valuable insights and personal anecdotes. Hear how her experience as a teacher and coach shapes her leadership style. We also explore the challenges and rewards of rebuilding relationships, emphasizing the role of communication. Finally, we celebrate the community spirit of Wetumpka, magnified by HGTV’s "Hometown Takeover," and how it has played a pivotal role in Lana’s entrepreneurial journey. Join us for an episode filled with inspiration, heartfelt stories, and the essence of community.

    Music "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

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    1 hr and 10 mins
  • Episode 181 -- Maya-Lis Wright -- Transforming Health Through Nutrition: A Journey of Empowerment and Balance
    Jul 3 2024

    We are super excited to have a special guest who is passionate about fitness and nature. She works out six to seven days a week and is diving into jiu-jitsu and kickboxing, despite her busy schedule. What truly rejuvenates her, though, is spending time in the great outdoors – hiking, camping, and exploring nature's beauty. These activities help her find peace and a sense of unity with the world around her.What if you could transform your health and life simply by understanding the food you eat? Join us on this latest Stacked Keys Podcast episode as we sit down with the incredible Maya-Lis Wright, known as the "nutrition lady." Maya shares her remarkable journey from a fast food lover to a dedicated nutrition expert, detailing her path through various college majors until she found her true passion in exercise science and nutrition. She reveals the significant impact of individualized nutrition plans and the hurdles of educating people in a world overwhelmed by convenience foods.
    Ever been baffled by food labels? Maya demystifies the complicated language and hidden pitfalls of food packaging. She provides actionable strategies for reading and understanding labels, with a particular focus on avoiding hidden sugars and unhealthy ingredients in seemingly good-for-you products. We also explore the emotional bond with comfort foods and how to cultivate intuitive eating habits for long-term health benefits. Maya’s insights aim to empower listeners to make conscious, informed choices that lead to lasting, positive changes in their diets and overall well-being.
    In the latter part of our conversation, we discuss how building trust and support systems can be transformative, especially after experiences of bullying. Maya opens up about her personal journey from childhood bullying to forming lifelong friendships and emphasizes the empowering role of controlling aspects like nutrition. We also talk about balancing wants and needs, celebrating independence, and finding adventure while establishing roots. This episode is a treasure trove of inspiration and practical advice, perfect for anyone looking to achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. Join us, celebrate your individuality, and don’t forget to rate us five stars on iTunes!

    Contact Maya on her website it's https://www.wrightwaynutrition.com/ https://www.instagram.com/wrightwaynutrition/
    https://www.facebook.com/MayaLisNutritionist

    Music "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

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    59 mins