In this exciting episode, we chat with Becky, a personal stylist and former retail manager who has pivoted her career to empower women through fashion. Becky shares her journey from working in special education and retail to launching her personal styling business in Arizona. Her mission is to help women feel confident by finding their personal style and building a wardrobe that fits their lives. Becky dives into her career changes, personal growth, and the rewarding experiences of working with clients to transform their wardrobes and self-esteem.

What you'll hear...

1. Becky’s Journey to Personal Styling:

• Becky's move from Ohio to Chicago, and eventually to Arizona, shaped her career and personal life.
• Transition from working in special education to managing high-end retail stores like Neiman Marcus, Saks, and EverEve.
• How Becky's love for fashion led her to start her own personal styling business after years of experience in retail.

2. The Power of Dressing for Confidence:

• Becky emphasizes the importance of feeling good in your clothes and how it impacts self-esteem.
• The process of working with clients to organize closets, identify their style, and create outfits that make them feel empowered.
• Her approach to styling petite clients and creating outfits that flatter different body types.

3. Building a New Career in Arizona:

• Moving to Arizona during the pandemic, Becky reinvented herself by starting her own business, *Be Styled by Becky*.
• The support of her partner, Josh, gave her the confidence to take the leap into entrepreneurship.

4. Wardrobe Essentials for Every Woman:

• Becky shares her top wardrobe staples, including a great black blazer, leather pants, a high boot, a cream sweater, and a leather skirt.
• The importance of tailoring and how small adjustments can make a big difference in how clothes fit and feel.

5. Advice for Personal and Professional Growth:

• Becky discusses the importance of not being afraid to change career paths and giving yourself grace when starting something new.
• Her reflections on learning from every stage of her life and career, and the value of pursuing what makes you happy.

Insights:

• “Getting dressed builds confidence. When you feel good in your clothes, it changes your entire mindset.” – Becky
• “Don’t be afraid to pivot in life. Give yourself grace with every new chapter.” – Becky
• “Tailoring is key. You’ll never find something off the rack that fits perfectly, so invest in making it work for you.” – Becky

Resources:

• Follow Becky on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/BeStyledByBecky

If Becky’s story and styling tips resonated with you, be sure to follow her on Instagram and stay updated on her latest fashion advice. Subscribe to our podcast for more empowering conversations, and don’t forget to share this episode with friends who might need a wardrobe refresh or confidence boost!

We’d love to hear from you! Send us your feedback, questions, or guest suggestions at connect@jaimemarco.com

Thank you for tuning into this inspiring conversation with Becky. Remember, fashion isn’t just about clothes—it’s about how you feel in them. Take a moment to explore your personal style and show up confidently in all areas of life!

In this heartfelt and entertaining New Year’s Eve special, Jaime and her dad, Stan, reflect on the past year, the lessons learned, and their hopes for the future. Filled with laughs, insights, and their signature banter, they discuss the power of small, meaningful changes, the beauty of living in the moment, and the importance of connecting with others. Whether you’re clinking glasses or reflecting quietly, this episode is the perfect way to ring in a new year—or a new moment—with intention and joy.

What You'll Hear:

1. Why We Clink Glasses:
   • The surprising historical roots of clinking glasses during celebrations—hint: it involved poison prevention!
2. Reflecting on the Year:
   • A look back at how the podcast started, proving that new opportunities can appear when you least expect them.
   • The importance of embracing new beginnings and saying yes to unexpected adventures.
3. Reframing New Year’s Resolutions:
   • Why traditional resolutions often fail and how focusing on small, consistent changes leads to lasting success.
   • Tips for creating habits that stick, such as starting with manageable goals and finding accountability partners.
4. Living in the Moment:
   • Jaime and Stan discuss the value of mindfulness, releasing stress, and finding joy in everyday connections.
   • The idea of celebrating “Happy New Moments” instead of waiting for the new year to make a positive change.
5. Connecting with Others:
   • A reminder to reach out to those who may feel isolated during the holidays, inviting them to share in your celebrations.
   • How being kind and inclusive can create meaningful bonds and brighten someone’s day.
6. Fitness, Reading, and Other Personal Goals:
   • Insights on making small, achievable lifestyle changes, from working out with a friend to incorporating more reading into daily life.
   • The importance of building routines that energize and uplift you.

Insights:

• “Every day is an opportunity to create your own new year.” – Jaime Marco
• “Happy New Year? Let’s make it Happy New Moments. Every moment is a chance to start fresh.” – Stan Brown
• “Connection is the heart of joy—be there for others and for yourself.” – Jaime Marco

Resources:

• Join the Conversation: Jamie’s Podcast Website
• Recommended Book: Atomic Habits by James Clear

If you enjoyed this special episode, subscribe to our podcast and share it with friends and family to spread the joy. Let’s create happy new moments together throughout the year!

We’d love to hear your feedback, stories, or guest suggestions. Reach out at connect@jaimemarco.com

Cheers to all of you for supporting us on this podcast journey. Remember, every moment is a chance to start anew. Here’s to a year (and moments!) filled with connection, kindness, and joy. Until next time, keep writing your extraordinary story!

In this moving episode, we sit down with Amanda Gallagher, an artist, mother, and survivor who shares her incredible story of overcoming addiction, battling cancer, and discovering her purpose through her art. Amanda talks openly about her 12-year struggle with heroin addiction, the pivotal moment that led her to sobriety, and the personal and spiritual growth that followed. Today, she channels her energy into her family and her mosaic art, finding healing and peace in her work. Amanda’s journey is one of resilience, transformation, and the power of the human spirit to rebuild after adversity.

What you'll hear...

1. Amanda’s Early Life & Addiction:
   • Amanda recounts how she fell into heroin addiction at the age of 16, along with the difficulties of growing up in an environment where drugs were easily accessible.
   • The challenges of balancing her addiction while working in different jobs, including her time in the casino and cruise industries.
2. The Road to Sobriety:
   • Amanda shares the emotional intervention from her parents that ultimately pushed her to get sober.
   • Her struggle with relapse and how she finally embraced sobriety after realizing the toll her addiction had taken on her family and herself.
3. Life-Changing Health Battles:
   • Amanda details her experience with life-threatening electrocution at age 14, a brain tumor, and later a diagnosis of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.
   • The role her positive mindset played in her healing process, including the power of visualization and affirmations.
4. Finding Healing in Art:
   • Amanda explains how she found solace in mosaic art after her health battles, using the medium as a form of meditation and pain management.
   • She describes her geometric designs and the spiritual connection she feels through her artwork.
5. Raising Independent, Non-Conforming Children:
   • Amanda reflects on raising her two sons, Nathan and Harry, who have both chosen unconventional careers—Nathan as the founder of “Love Jam,” a community-based event, and Harry as a free runner and content creator with over a million YouTube subscribers.
6. Amanda’s Future Aspirations:
   • Despite her health challenges, Amanda shares her desire to attend Burning Man and the importance of continuing to push her boundaries and live life to the fullest.
   • Her ongoing mosaic projects and her hopes for expanding her work, including creating personalized pieces for memorials.

Insights:

• “One day at a time, healed, whole, and healthy.” – Amanda Gallagher
• “If I hadn’t gone through what I did, I wouldn’t be who I am today.” – Amanda Gallagher
• “The subconscious mind cannot tell the difference between truth or a lie, so whatever you tell it, that’s what becomes your reality.” – Amanda Gallagher

Resources:

• Amanda Gallagher's Art
• Love Jam Events
• Harry Gallagher's YouTube Channel:

If Amanda’s story inspired you, please subscribe to our podcast and leave a review. Share this episode with anyone who might be going through struggles of addiction, illness, or looking for inspiration in their journey of healing.

We’d love to hear from you! Reach out with your feedback, questions, or guest suggestions at connect@jaimemarco.com.

Thank you for joining us for this heartfelt conversation with Amanda Gallagher. Her story is a testament to the power of resilience and transformation. Until next time, keep writing your extraordinary story!

In this compelling episode, we are joined by the remarkable Dr. Simi Ranajee, a healthcare professional, TEDx speaker, and founder of the nonprofit Mission Neem 5. Dr. Ranajee shares her powerful journey of overcoming personal health challenges, her mission to empower women through education, and her insights on living with gratitude. This conversation is filled with inspiration, resilience, and practical wisdom for facing life's difficulties with grace.

What you'll hear...

1. Introduction to Dr. Simi Ranajee:

• Dr. Ranajee’s background in healthcare and her passion for giving back to the community.
• The recent devastating floods in Florida and the importance of community support during such times.

2. Living with Gratitude:

• Dr. Ranajee shares her philosophy of starting each day with gratitude and how it shapes her perspective on life.
• The concept of viewing challenges not as obstacles but as opportunities for growth and learning.

3. Overcoming Health Challenges:

• Dr. Ranajee’s personal health journey, including her battle with a serious lung condition that required surgery.
• The mental and emotional struggles she faced and how she found strength in the midst of adversity.
• Her experience of flatlining during surgery and the profound insights she gained from that near-death experience.

4. The Power of Perspective:

• Dr. Ranajee discusses the importance of shifting from a “why me?” mindset to “why is this happening for me?” and how it has transformed her life.
• The acronym “FROM” (For Reasons Outside Myself) that Dr. Ranajee uses to remind herself of the greater purpose behind life’s challenges.

5. Mission Neem 5:

• The inspiration behind Dr. Ranajee’s nonprofit, Mission Neem 5, which focuses on empowering women through education and financial independence.
• The impact of holistic products like neem oil on health and agriculture, and how the organization supports women in need.

6. Empowering Through Education:

• Dr. Ranajee’s work in educating students in Chicago public schools about etiquette, manners, and confidence.
• The development of the “World of Wonder” book series, aimed at teaching children essential life skills in a fun and engaging way.

7. Reflections on Life and Legacy:

• Dr. Ranajee shares her thoughts on what’s next for her, including upcoming projects and personal goals.
• The importance of living a life of service, constantly seeking to make a positive impact on others.

Insights:

• “Gratitude is the key to turning challenges into opportunities.” – Dr. Simi Ranajee
• “Shift your perspective from ‘why me?’ to ‘why is this happening for me?’” – Dr. Simi Ranajee
• “You can walk into a room and change the energy—you have that power.” – Dr. Simi Ranajee

Resources:

• Mission Neem 5: ttps://www.theMN5.co
• Follow Dr. Simi Ranajee on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simiraji
• Watch Dr. Simi Ranajee’s TEDx Talk: https://www.ted.com/tedx

If this episode resonated with you, we encourage you to support Mission Neem 5 and consider how you can make a difference in your community. Please subscribe to our podcast and leave a review to help us continue sharing inspiring stories like Dr. Ranajee’s.

We’d love to hear your thoughts! Reach out to us at connect@jaimemarco.com with your feedback, questions, or guest suggestions.

Thank you for joining us for this enlightening conversation with Dr. Simi Ranajee. Remember to embrace life’s challenges with gratitude and use your personal power to make a positive impact in the world. Until next time, keep writing your extraordinary story!

In this festive Thanksgiving special, Jaime Marco and her father, Stan Brown, share a light-hearted and reflective conversation about gratitude, family, and life lessons. With plenty of humor and personal anecdotes, they explore what Thanksgiving means to them and how to embrace gratitude in daily life. From fun holiday traditions to powerful insights on living with intention, this episode is perfect for those looking to reflect on what they’re thankful for as we approach the end of the year.

What you'll hear...

1. Thanksgiving Traditions:
   • The episode kicks off with a humorous exchange about the holiday preparations, from wearing turkey headbands to talking about memorable family gatherings.
   • The importance of enjoying the simple moments of Thanksgiving and what makes the holiday truly special.
2. The Power of Gratitude:
   • Jaime and Stan share their reflections on what they are thankful for this year, focusing on family, health, friendships, and career.
   • They encourage listeners to write down five things they are grateful for and compare them with loved ones to deepen connections.
3. Life Perspectives and Aging:
   • Stan reflects on his perspective as a 76-year-old and the lessons learned over the years about enjoying life and appreciating the present moment.
   • They discuss how living in the moment and appreciating small joys can lead to a fulfilling life.
4. Giovanni Livera’s Powerful Message:
   • Jamie shares an impactful experience from a National Speakers Association event with Giovanni Livera, who used a deck of cards to illustrate the limited time we have in life.
   • The idea of “living with intention” is reinforced as they talk about how the average person only has a limited number of years to live, urging listeners to reflect on how they spend their time.
5. The Importance of Connection:
   • Jamie discusses the need for meaningful relationships and how technology, despite its convenience, can make people feel disconnected.
   • The conversation emphasizes the importance of personal connections, not just during family gatherings but throughout everyday life.
6. Empathy vs. Sympathy:
   • Stan talks about the difference between empathy and sympathy and how understanding others’ experiences is key to building stronger relationships.
   • The family discusses their own experiences with feeling empathy in their lives and how it shapes their interactions with others.
7. Reflections on Career and Purpose:
   • Jamie shares how she found purpose in her career and how the value of helping others and making a difference has been central to her journey.
   • Stan reflects on his long career in real estate and how his relationships with clients and colleagues shaped his work.

Insights:

• “It’s not what we do, it’s how we show up in the world that matters.” – Jamie Marco
• “Gratitude isn’t just about what you have, but about recognizing what you can give.” – Stan Brown
• “Time is the most precious thing we have, and once it’s gone, we can’t get it back.” – Giovanni Livera (shared by Jamie)

Resources:

• IKEA Spain Christmas Dinner Video: Watch on YouTube

Join in this Thanksgiving week by reflecting on the things you’re grateful for and sharing them with family and friends. Be sure to subscribe to our podcast for more episodes filled with inspiration and connection. Share this episode with those who could benefit from a little gratitude and humor in their lives.

We’d love to hear from you! Send us your feedback, questions, or guest suggestions at connect@jaimemarco.com

Thank you for tuning in to this special Thanksgiving episode. Remember, life’s about connections—don’t wait for the “big moments” to show gratitude and love to those around you. Wishing you all a joyful Thanksgiving!

In this insightful episode, we sit down with Sensei Russell Burke, a 5th-degree black belt, martial arts instructor, and Marine veteran. Russell shares his journey from being a bullied child to becoming a respected martial artist. He talks about the life-changing influence of his martial arts instructor and how his training shaped his confidence, character, and career. From childhood dreams of martial arts to opening his own dojo, Russell emphasizes the importance of perseverance, discipline, and the life lessons learned through martial arts. This episode is filled with laughter, wisdom, and practical insights on self-defense, personal growth, and mentorship.

What you'll hear...

1. Early Interest in Martial Arts:
   • Russell shares how watching a Chuck Norris movie as a young boy sparked his interest in martial arts.
   • His experience of being bullied and how martial arts became a path to self-confidence.
2. Finding a Mentor:
   • Russell’s journey of training under the same martial arts instructor for years and the life lessons he learned from him.
   • The importance of having a positive role model, especially for those growing up without a father figure.
3. Martial Arts and Life Skills:
   • The focus on self-discipline, controlled breathing, and mental toughness in martial arts training.
   • How martial arts teaches children to manage emotions, build confidence, and handle life’s challenges with calmness and resilience.
4. Building His Own Dojo:
   • Russell’s decision to open his own martial arts school and dedicate his life to teaching others.
   • The rewards of seeing students grow in confidence, both physically and mentally, through their training.
5. Lessons from the Marine Corps:
   • Russell reflects on how his time in the Marine Corps shaped his work ethic, discipline, and mental toughness.
   • His love for the demanding nature of boot camp and how it reinforced the lessons of martial arts.
6. Teaching Philosophy and Personal Growth:
   • Russell’s philosophy on martial arts being more than just fighting—it’s about developing character and integrity.
   • The difference between tournament fighting and real-world self-defense, and the importance of controlled contact in training.
7. Advice to His Younger Self:
   • Russell shares the advice he would give to his younger self, emphasizing the importance of trusting yourself, surrounding yourself with positive people, and pursuing your passions.

Insights:

• “I was small for my age, bullied a lot, but martial arts gave me the confidence to stand tall.” – Russell Burke
• “Martial arts is about much more than fighting. It’s about building character, controlling your emotions, and being confident in who you are.” – Russell Burke
• “If you surround yourself with good people and stay true to your values, you’ll thrive.” – Russell Burke

Resources:

• Russell Burke's Dojo
• Connect with Sensei Russell Burke on Facebook

If Russell's journey resonated with you, please subscribe to our podcast and leave a review. Share this episode with anyone interested in martial arts, personal growth, or the importance of discipline and perseverance. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories in future episodes!

We’d love to hear your thoughts! Send us your feedback, questions, or guest suggestions at connect@jaimemarco.com.

Thank you for tuning into this engaging conversation with Sensei Russell Burke. Remember, life is about resilience, confidence, and character. Whether through martial arts or daily life, keep growing and writing your extraordinary story!

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Lindsay Milner, who shares her powerful story of living with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis from a young age, dealing with relentless bullying, and how these experiences shaped her into the empathetic and resilient person she is today. Lindsay’s journey is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, the importance of family support, and the power of perseverance. She also opens up about raising her children, one of whom has special needs, and how she navigates parenting with empathy and strength.

What you'll hear...

1. Lindsay's Early Diagnosis:
   • Lindsay was diagnosed with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis at the age of three after her mother’s persistence led to a proper diagnosis.
   • She recounts the trauma of constant pain, swelling, and the emotional toll of frequent hospital visits.
2. Coping with Bullying:
   • Lindsay talks about the severe bullying she faced due to her physical condition, including being called cruel nicknames.
   • The impact of bullying on her self-esteem and how she learned to persevere despite the challenges.
3. Family Support and Resilience:
   • Lindsay shares how her strong Christian family, especially her parents, played a crucial role in her ability to cope with her condition and the bullying.
   • The importance of not allowing her diagnosis to define her, as her parents encouraged her to participate in activities like dance and sports.
4. The Transition to Healing:
   • At the age of 11, Lindsay experienced what she and her family believe was a miraculous healing, as her symptoms significantly improved.
   • Despite the physical improvements, Lindsay discusses the long-lasting emotional effects of her childhood experiences.
5. Raising Children with Empathy:
   • As a mother, Lindsay reflects on how her past influences the way she raises her children, especially her son who has medical needs.
   • The challenges of teaching her children about resilience, empathy, and the importance of being kind to others, despite their differences.
6. Navigating Modern Challenges:
   • Lindsay explores the impact of social media on bullying and how it has changed the landscape for children today.
   • She shares her concerns and strategies for helping her children navigate a world where bullying can follow them 24/7 through digital platforms.
7. The Power of Forgiveness and Boundaries:
   • The importance of forgiveness in Lindsay’s life and how she balances it with setting healthy boundaries.
   • How Lindsay continues to work on not overcompensating for her past insecurities and teaching her children the same.
8. Looking Ahead:
   • Lindsay discusses the ongoing journey of healing and growth, and her aspirations for her children to live in a world with more acceptance and understanding.
   • The potential of starting a support group for parents of special needs children, recognizing the isolation that often comes with the role.

Insights:

• “I wish that I would not have allowed anyone to make me feel a certain way.” – Lindsay Milner
• “It’s okay to be upset. It’s okay to cry. But it’s also important to forgive and set boundaries.” – Lindsay Milner
• “We need to be accepting of everyone, because everyone has something to offer this world.” – Lindsay Milner

Resources:

• Connect with Lindsay Milner
• Visit Lindsay's Website
  

If Lindsay’s story resonated with you, please subscribe to our podcast and leave a review. Share this episode with friends, family, or anyone who may benefit from hearing about Lindsay’s journey of resilience. Stay tuned for more stories that inspire and empower in our upcoming episodes!

We’d love to hear your thoughts! Send us your feedback, questions, or guest suggestions at connect@jaimemarco.com.

Thank you for joining us for this heartfelt conversation with Lindsay Milner. Remember, resilience is a lifelong journey, and it’s okay to cry, forgive, and set boundaries along the way. Until next time, keep writing your extraordinary story!