The Beauty in the Mess

In this episode, Melissa shares her incredible journey, starting from a love for writing during her childhood, to becoming an English and Communications major in college, and eventually evolving into a multifaceted entrepreneur, mom, blogger, and podcaster. She recounts significant life milestones, including volunteering at her daughter’s school, starting and pivoting her blog, and facing family challenges including her daughter's epilepsy diagnosis and her father's illness and passing. The discussion delves deep into themes of personal growth, resilience, faith, and the importance of authenticity and forgiveness. Melissa also touches on her experiences navigating multicultural family dynamics, the impact of blogging and podcasting on her life, and her journey towards self-love and setting boundaries. Throughout, Melissa emphasizes the value of sharing one's story, fostering open conversations, and building genuine relationships.As a dedicated mom and wife, Melissa knows a thing or two about stretching a dollar and making the most of life's blessings. Through her popular blog and podcast, Chats from the Blog Cabin, she invites you to join her on a voyage of thrifty finds, DIY projects, and travel escapades that don't break the bank.But Melissa's story doesn't stop there. Her faith guides her steps as a child of God, and she's passionate about connecting with her community, offering words of wisdom and encouragement. Whether you're looking for budget-friendly tips or a dose of inspiration, Melissa's down-home insights are as refreshing as a glass of sweet tea on a summer's day.03:00 Introduction and Warm Welcome03:12 Melissa's Journey: From Writing to Teaching05:18 Challenges and Triumphs: Family and Health08:13 Blogging and Authenticity13:11 Podcasting and Personal Growth15:26 Relationships and Self-Discovery29:37 Forgiveness and Moving Forward31:49 Reflecting on Personal Growth32:23 Facing Fears: The Ziplining Experience35:17 Embracing New Experiences38:24 Family Dynamics and Relationships42:48 The Impact of Blogging and Podcasting48:55 Cultural Awareness and Conversations on Race53:40 The Journey of Podcasting55:54 Connecting with the AudienceConnect with Melissa Vera:https://www.instagram.com/frugalmom/https://www.facebook.com/AdventuresofFrugalMom/posts/263692495318542https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOhpY-uzzVBH1Ii08ypuxWALet's Connect!The Beauty In The Messhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/676609323457906https://thebeautyinthemess.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/michele-simms-mba-a061b96a/    

In this episode of 'The Beauty In The Mess', host Michele sits down with Celeste Mergens, a renowned author and thought leader, who shares her inspiring journey from overcoming childhood poverty to becoming a global expert in menstrual and reproductive health. Celeste discusses the profound impact of period poverty on girls and communities worldwide and introduces her organization, Days for Girls, which provides sustainable menstrual health solutions. She also delves into personal narratives about dealing with trauma, the importance of mental and emotional well-being, and how little actions can lead to monumental societal changes. Tune in to explore how you too can be part of this impactful movement and learn the power of breaking stigma through awareness and cooperative effort.Celeste has been featured in Oprah’s O Magazine and Forbes and been named Conscious Company Global Impact Entrepreneur Top Ten Women, and Women's Economic Forum's Woman of the Decade, to name a few. Her #1 bestselling new book, The Power of Days–A Story of Resilience, Dignity, and The Fight for Women's Equity, shares proof that we can all make a difference. 02:25 Introduction and Welcome02:40 Celeste's Journey and Early Life03:55 Global Work and Menstrual Equity05:48 Challenges and Sustainable Solutions07:24 Dealing with Overwhelming Need09:24 Starting Days for Girls13:59 Trauma and Epigenetics21:50 Mind the Gap Technique27:57 Questioning the Negative Voice28:59 The Power of Positivity and Its Pitfalls29:31 Transforming Nightmares into Empowerment32:06 The Impact of Unresolved Trauma34:20 Finding Purpose in Unexpected Places35:56 The Journey of Days for Girls46:45 Breaking the Stigma of Menstruation51:12 Conclusion and Call to ActionConnect with Celeste Mergenshttps://www.CelesteMergens.comhttps://www.facebook.com/celeste.mergenshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/celeste-mergenshttps://www.instagram.com/celestemergensLet's Connect!The Beauty In The Messhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/676609323457906https://thebeautyinthemess.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/michele-simms-mba-a061b96a/    

In this episode of 'The Beauty In The Mess,' Michele welcomes Tina, Austria's Pioneer Relationship Coach & Dream Life Mentor who shares her unique journey from professional sports to relationship coaching. Tina discusses her pursuit of happiness, beginning with a transformative experience in the Dominican Republic and Cuba, where she learned the essence of true happiness that is not tied to material possessions. She emphasizes the importance of self-love and holistic living, blending old school wisdom with modern strategies. Tina provides practical advice on how to shift mindsets, create positive habits, and set a holistic foundation for a fulfilling life and healthy relationships. Her story is a powerful reminder that true happiness starts from within.Tina, formerly known as Dr. Love, is a trailblazer in relationship coaching and an acclaimed dream life mentor. With over 20 years of experience and a diverse background that includes sports achievements, international cultural expertise, and overcoming personal adversities, Tina empowers high achievers to master health, love, and career. As an author and a voice of inspiration on various media platforms, she radiates positivity and unwavering dedication to awakening consciousness.02:05 Introduction and Welcome02:13 Journey to Becoming Austria's First Relationship Coach03:08 Discovering True Happiness in Cuba04:14 From Dating Coach to Dr. Love05:18 The Importance of Self-Happiness in Relationships06:22 Overcoming Negative Self-Perception14:21 Finding and Following Your Life's Purpose15:55 Living a Holistic Lifestyle22:15 Practical Steps to a Holistic Life25:09 Evaluating Relationships: Supportive or Draining?25:39 Cultural Differences in Holistic Living27:36 Blending Ancient Wisdom with Modern Strategies29:37 The Power of Visualization and Breath Work33:23 Focusing on Positivity and Gratitude35:17 The Journey from Athleticism to Balance38:35 Mindset Shifts and Habit Formation42:00 Books and Courses for Personal Growth43:59 The Importance of Self-Love45:39 Final Thoughts and EncouragementConnect with Tina Englisch:https://www.tinaenglisch.com/https://www.instagram.com/tinaenglisch/?hl=enLet's Connect!The Beauty In The Messhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/676609323457906https://thebeautyinthemess.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/michele-simms-mba-a061b96a/

In this episode of 'The Beauty In The Mess,' Becky Upchurch, a mindset coach, shares her journey from being an educator to becoming a life coach. She discusses the importance of setting realistic goals, the misconceptions about motivation, and the strategies for creating sustainable changes in life. Becky emphasizes the significance of starting small and building momentum, the power of commitment over motivation, and the impact of mindset on achieving goals. She also touches on the challenges of setting boundaries, dealing with guilt, and transforming negative life events into sources of clarity and motivation. Becky offers practical tools, such as journaling and audio affirmations, to help listeners shift their mindset and overcome limiting beliefs.Becky Upchurch is a mindset coach who specializes in helping busy women create time for themselves and their goals by learning to say no without fear, guilt, or worrying about what other people think. Both clients and audiences love Becky’s ability to get to the heart of the matter in relatable ways that balance raw honesty with kindness and levity to inspire change.  Becky believes that the fastest and best way to achieve your goals is through practical, easy-to-implement strategies, managing your mindset, and trusting in your ability to create sustainable change. She strives to accomplish this in her own life through her motto of “Love Self, Serve Others.”02:05 Introduction and Guest Welcome02:12 Becky's Journey to Becoming a Mindset Coach01:20 Strategies for Sustainable Change08:38 The Role of Motivation and Commitment11:22 Journaling and Mindset Practices17:10 Finding Clarity Through Negative Events24:47 Purpose and Embracing Change27:18 Understanding Human Resistance to Change28:23 The Guilt Associated with Personal Growth29:03 The Importance of Setting Boundaries32:31 Practical Tips for Setting Boundaries38:34 Mindset Shifts for Better Boundaries44:28 The Power of Incremental Thinking47:26 Morning Routines and Planning Your Day49:01 Introduction to Higher Good Coaching52:03 Final Thoughts on Saying NoConnect with Becky Upchurch:https://www.instagram.com/BeckyUpchurch_https://www.highergoodcoaching.comLet's Connect!The Beauty In The Messhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/676609323457906https://thebeautyinthemess.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/michele-simms-mba-a061b96a/ 

In this episode, Michele interviews Elizabeth Douglas, ESQ, an award-winning divorce and family law attorney and speaker. Elizabeth shares her lifelong passion for law, transitioning from corporate litigation to divorce and family law to forge a deeper connection with her clients. She discusses the challenges and rewards of her work, emphasizing the importance of communication, empathy, and holistic support for individuals going through divorce. Elizabeth also highlights the significance of self-care, mental health support, and the pivotal role of prenuptial agreements. The conversation touches on complex cases, modern family dynamics, and fostering self-love post-divorce. Elizabeth's commitment to helping clients thrive after divorce and her proactive approach to evolving family law are key themes throughout the discussion.Elizabeth is the CEO and Founder of Douglas Family Law, PLLC. She is an award-winning divorce and family law attorney in New York. She has helped her clients through challenges like divorces, custody, and surrogacy battles and believes that everyone can start over and live fulfilling lives - no matter what they go through. Elizabeth has been featured in Forbes, Fox and recently on CNBC - she is also an international keynote speaker. She strives for excellence while being a beacon to uplift her staff, community, and clients.02:00 Introduction and Welcome02:07 Elizabeth's Journey to Family Law03:49 Challenges and Emotional Impact05:16 Empathy and Client Care06:45 Helping Clients Through Grieving08:50 Most Challenging Cases10:44 Rewarding Cases and Modern Family Dynamics12:19 Communication Issues Leading to Divorce13:32 Life After Divorce: Healing and Moving Forward21:09 The Importance of Prenups27:42 Pet Custody and Legal Nuances29:48 Fostering Self-Love After Divorce31:09 Final Thoughts and Practice InformationConnect with Elizabeth Douglas, ESQ:LinkedInWebsiteTwitter / XLet's Connect!Facebook: The Beauty in the Mess podcast InstagramWebsiteLinkedIn

In this comprehensive episode of 'The Beauty In The Mess,' host Michele delves into the world of personal branding with financial expert and author, Annie Margarita Yang. The discussion spans Annie's journey from avoiding student loans to becoming a bestselling author, highlighting the importance of personal branding. Tips for curating a robust online presence, particularly on platforms like LinkedIn, are shared. The episode also explores strategies for maintaining a consistent and authentic brand across all social media, emphasizing storytelling and authenticity. Annie and Michele tackle topics such as the challenges in personal branding like receiving negative feedback and the variability of audience engagement. They look into the future of personal branding, especially the role of TikTok, and provide valuable job search strategies. The conversation underscores the changing relevance of traditional degrees in career advancement, urging listeners to think beyond conventional paths and strive for their goals with confidence.Annie is the best-selling author of “The 5-Day Job Search.” Additionally, she is someone who balances a full-time job with a thriving side business and is a female breadwinner. She offers practical advice, a unique perspective, and encouragement that you can apply immediately. She’s successfully branded herself as a personal financial expert online, and now as a best-selling and award-winning author. She is eager to share lessons that can aid you in reclaiming your professional narrative. With over 1 million YouTube views and 18,000 subscribers, her reach and impact speak to the effectiveness of the strategies that she teaches.02:30 Introduction and Guest Welcome02:37 Annie's Backstory: From Immigrant Child to Financial Expert03:33 The Journey to Becoming an Author and Financial Advisor05:30 Testing Out of College and Early Career Moves06:34 Understanding and Building a Personal Brand07:55 Networking and Leveraging Social Media09:06 Consistency in Personal Branding16:29 The Power of Storytelling in Personal Branding20:03 Navigating Audience Attention Spans20:51 Adjusting Your Brand Without Losing Followers22:07 Dealing with Personal and Emotional Challenges23:07 Responding to Hate Comments26:18 The Future of Personal Branding28:03 Insights on Job Search and Career Growth29:03 The Importance of Mindset in Job Applications29:12 Interview Tips and Personal Branding33:59 The Role of Education in Career Success37:36 Final Thoughts and EncouragementConnect with Annie Margarita Yang:LinkedInFacebookInstagramTwitter / XTikTok Let's Connect!Facebook: The Beauty in the Mess podcast InstagramWebsiteLinkedIn

In this episode of The Beauty In The Mess, Daniel Hauge delves into the transformative journeys of entrepreneurs, who turned his life around from turmoil to triumph. He discusses the significance of aligning business practices with personal values to ensure sustainable success and personal fulfillment. Key topics include the development of effective systems to maintain progress, the importance of clear goals, and the role of social media in personal branding. Real-life examples illustrate how consistent small actions, driven by well-structured systems, lead to long-term success. Insights on managing overwhelm, building confidence, and balancing different aspects of life are shared alongside strategies for scaling businesses while maintaining core values.Daniel Hauge is a #1 bestselling author and entrepreneur from Denmark. He went from being a high-school dropout and being involved in crime and drug abuse to now being the founder of Passion 4 Achievement, a company helping thousands of entrepreneurs all over the world maximize performance in and out of business. Daniel is obsessed with personal growth, entrepreneurship, and the relationship between them. He believes everyone can build their version of a world-class life, and he aims to help as many entrepreneurs as possible achieve exactly that.02:45 Introduction and Welcome02:53 Daniel's Backstory: Overcoming Adversity04:14 Gaining Clarity and Setting Values07:50 Building a Life Worth Living12:22 Overcoming Confidence Issues14:21 Managing Stress and Overwhelm18:18 The Importance of Systems and Measurables20:02 The Role of Social Media in Entrepreneurship29:49 Designing Your Lifestyle and Business29:25 Balancing Primary Values in Business29:52 Facing Challenges and Overcoming Fear31:11 High Reward Activities in Business and Life34:52 Building and Scaling Systems for Success36:25 The Power of Small Steps and Momentum40:57 Setting Standards and Achieving Consistency44:02 Integrating Health, Business, and Personal Growth48:18 Maintaining Motivation and Momentum49:55 Coaching Program and Final ThoughtsConnect with Daniel Hauge:Website Let's Connect!Facebook: The Beauty in the Mess podcast InstagramWebsiteLinkedIn

In this episode of 'The Beauty In The Mess,' fitness mindset coach Scott Friedman explains the importance of mindset over mechanics in achieving fitness goals. Scott discusses common barriers to maintaining fitness routines, such as fear of public failure, societal pressures, and unrealistic expectations. The episode delves into transforming yo-yo dieting into a sustainable lifestyle by setting specific, realistic goals, and identifying deep-rooted motivations. Key steps like understanding your 'why,' creating actionable steps, and maintaining accountability are emphasized. The discussion covers balancing exercise and diet, especially during vacations, and overcoming food cravings through habit formation and consistency. Scott shares his approach to coaching, aimed at empowering individuals to sustain their own fitness and nutrition plans by educating and removing obstacles. Check out Scott's podcast, 'The Power of Progress,' for more insights on fitness, mindset, and well-being.Scott is a nationally accredited Personal Trainer, Fitness Nutrition Coach, and Behavior Change Specialist, who has been in the fitness industry for a decade. He has worked with hundreds of clients, and specializes in mentoring them on how to build long term sustainable habits using his key principles of mindset, motion and momentum. Turning health from a chore to a lifestyle.Scott is a unique and engaging speaker, coach, and host of the Power of Progress podcast. He prides himself on understanding the needs of those who wish to change their lives. Through storytelling, personal experience, and a refreshingly honest take on the fitness and nutrition industry, Scott empowers and inspires his audiences and clients to take congruent action to achieve their goals. His authentic, and ‘grip it and rip it’ style resonates with people to take practical steps to improve their lives.03:10 Introduction and Guest Welcome03:17 Understanding Mindset in Fitness04:50 Common Roadblocks to Weight Loss07:02 The Fear of Public Judgment09:57 The Yo-Yo Dieting Cycle15:24 Making Fitness a Lifestyle22:11 The Importance of Accountability28:18 Navigating Setbacks and Mental Preparation28:50 Accepting and Planning for Indulgences31:37 The Problem with Restrictive Diets35:03 Combating Food Addictions41:11 Building Consistent Healthy Habits44:36 The Importance of Mindset in Fitness and Nutrition49:32 Overview of the Coaching Program52:31 Final Thoughts and Where to Find More ContentConnect with Scott Friedman:YouTube ChannelApple PodcastsSpotifyWebsite Let's Connect!Facebook: The Beauty in the Mess podcast InstagramWebsiteLinkedIn

In this episode of 'The Beauty In The Mess,' we sit down with Christa Gagnon, a rare disease advocate and founder of Going with the Gagnons. Christa shares her transformative journey after her daughter, Jordan, was diagnosed with Giant Axonal Neuropathy (GAN), a terminal illness. She discusses the challenges of living with a terminal genetic condition, the stages of grief, and how she and her family navigate life day by day. We also learn about Jordan's dreams, their joint clothing line, and the importance of community and advocacy.Christa Gagnon is a woman who wears many hats. Being blessed with a daughter with a terminal illness has shaped the trajectory of her career and passions. Her daughter is her world and she is on a mission to bring awareness and find a cure. She is an advocate and knows the importance of her voice. She has been an entrepreneur and business owner for the past 20 years and just recently stepped into the nonprofit space as a brand manager. It is Christa's goal to create community and bring people together. She shares her experience with the pain and grief that comes with being a caregiver to help others know they are not alone. She is excited that she has reached the portion of her life where she is able to give back and help others.02:10 Introduction02:16 Krista's Mission02:36 Stages of Grief02:41 Journey to Diagnosis03:01 Living with GAN03:41 Raising Jordan03:52 Daily Life and Acceptance07:48 Diagnosis Impact on Family12:31 Jordan's Dreams and Projects22:08 Support and Advocacy23:51 Clothing Line and Affirmations27:53 Words from Jordan30:22 Contact and FollowConnect with Christa Gagnon:WebsiteInstagramTik Tok Let's Connect!Facebook: The Beauty in the Mess podcast InstagramWebsiteLinkedIn