Be Freaking Awesome Podcast

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In This Special Episode of Be Freaking Awesome, Angela and Sami are joined by LaDawnya Faulkner, whose story of resilience and renewal will inspire you to see the beauty in starting over. After hitting rock bottom, LaDawnya rebuilt her life, found healing in sewing, and now uses her craft to foster community and connection. Together, they discuss the challenges of recovery, the role of creativity in healing, and how to find grace in life’s messy middle.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How LaDawnya turned her personal struggles into a mission to help others.
• Why sewing can be a powerful tool for mental health and self-discovery.
• The importance of finding your “third place” outside of home and work.
• Practical advice for navigating grief, loss, and addiction recovery.
• Why grace and self-compassion are essential on the journey to healing.

Key Takeaways:

• Fresh Starts Are Possible: Even after immense loss, it’s never too late to rebuild.
• Creativity as Therapy: Crafting can be a form of healing and a way to process trauma.
• Your Third Place Matters: Find or create a space where you feel accepted and at peace.
• Community Heals: Healing happens when we connect with others who support us.
• Take the First Step: Trust yourself, even when the path feels uncertain.

Resources Mentioned:

• Lost Ozark Dawn Community Heritage: LostOzarkDawn.org
• Located at the Center for Nonprofits, Rogers, AR.

Special Needs:

Got sewing supplies you no longer need? Donate them to Lost Ozark Dawn and help support their mission of community healing through creativity.

You've done the work. The retreats, the books, the coaching. And the pattern is still there. The Invisible Edge Foundation 1:1 Coaching is where that changes. Six sessions, one-on-one, body-based belief work that gets underneath what nothing else has touched. bfreakingawesome.com/podcast-coaching

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In This Special Episode of Be Freaking Awesome
Hosts Sami Kinnison and Angela Belford are joined by leadership and empowerment coach Jen Porter to dive into what it means to dream big for 2025. This reflective and interactive conversation explores how to reconnect with your true desires, trust yourself, and embrace the power of community while designing your most meaningful year yet. Jen shares her proven methods for reflection and planning, and together they discuss the challenges and triumphs of dreaming boldly in today’s world.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• How to differentiate between goals and dreams and why both matter.
• The importance of reflection to understand where you’ve been and where you want to go.
• How to trust yourself and build confidence by listening to your intuition.
• The role of community in dreaming big and staying motivated.
• Practical strategies for aligning your dreams with your strengths and passions.

Key Takeaways

• Dreaming is about more than achievement: It’s about connecting with your soul and imagination.
• Reflection creates clarity: Take time to consider what you want more of—and less of—in your life.
• Small steps build trust: Start by acting on small intuitions to strengthen your confidence in making bigger decisions.
• Community is powerful: Sharing your dreams with the right people can give you support, feedback, and encouragement.

Special Offer: Reflection & Dreaming Exercise

Jen Porter has created a guided reflection exercise to help you reflect on the past year, dream for the future, and create a plan for 2025. This practical tool will help you align your dreams with your values and take the first steps toward your goals.
👉 Access the exercise here

Resources Mentioned

• Jen Porter’s website: www.jenportercoach.com 
• Learn more about Jen’s upcoming Lioness Rise Up initiative for bold, empowered women.

Until next time—go be freaking awesome!

You've done the work. The retreats, the books, the coaching. And the pattern is still there. The Invisible Edge Foundation 1:1 Coaching is where that changes. Six sessions, one-on-one, body-based belief work that gets underneath what nothing else has touched. bfreakingawesome.com/podcast-coaching

Support the show

Sign up at bfreakingawesome.com to get the latest news, insights, and episodes straight to your inbox.

Follow Be Freaking Awesome on Facebook, LinkedIn, Youtube, and Instagram.

Let us know what questions you want to be answered and discussed by emailing us at [email protected].

Send us Fan Mail

In this special episode of Be Freaking Awesome, Sami guides you through a hands-on New Year’s exercise to help you start the year with intention. Using the metaphor of a sailboat, Sami asks thought-provoking questions to help you clarify your goals, identify what will propel you forward, recognize what keeps you steady, and address what might hold you back. This reflective and interactive episode is designed to help you sail into the new year with purpose and confidence.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How to define your “island” (your goals or direction) for the year.
• The importance of identifying the “wind in your sails” (your motivators).
• What it means to have a “keel” for stability in life and work.
• How to recognize and let go of “anchors” that create drag or hold you back.

Key Takeaways:

• Setting intentionality is about creating direction, not perfection.
• Balance comes from identifying what supports and steadies you, even during challenges.
• Awareness of potential obstacles (anchors) helps you navigate life more effectively.

Don’t miss the Be Freaking Awesome giveaway! Sign up here for your chance to win books from past guests.

👉 Have questions or want to share your reflections? Reach out to us at [email protected].

Follow Be Freaking Awesome on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

Until next time—go be freaking awesome!

Support the show

Sign up at bfreakingawesome.com to get the latest news, insights, and episodes straight to your inbox.

Follow Be Freaking Awesome on Facebook, LinkedIn, Youtube, and Instagram.

Let us know what questions you want to be answered and discussed by emailing us at [email protected].

Send us Fan Mail

As the year wraps up, Angela and Sami take a moment to reflect on the nonfiction books that shaped their lives in 2024. In this special New Year’s Eve episode, they share the stories, lessons, and insights that left a lasting impression—covering everything from positivity and resilience to history and personal growth.

What to Expect in This Episode:
📚 Book Recommendations: Discover their top nonfiction reads of the year!
🌟 Personal Reflections: Hear Angela and Sami’s heartfelt stories of how these books influenced their lives, sparked new perspectives, and helped them navigate challenges.
💡 Actionable Takeaways: Get insights on positivity without toxicity, embracing curiosity, overcoming obstacles, and making meaningful progress at your own pace.
🎁 Exciting Giveaway: Enter to win a special book bundle, including Angela’s books and a selection from past podcast guests. Details inside the episode!

Whether you’re a bookworm or looking for your next read to inspire your personal or professional growth, this episode has something for everyone.

Mentioned in This Episode:

1. The Energy Bus by Jon Gordon
2. The Making of Biblical Womanhood by Beth Allison Barr
3. There’s No Cure for Being Human by Kate Bowler
4. The Obstacle Is the Way by Ryan Holiday
5. Slow Productivity by Cal Newport
6. The Righteous Mind by Jonathan Haidt
7. The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt
8. Seek: How Curiosity Can Transform Your Life and Change the World by Scott Shigeoka

Let’s Hear From You!
What were your favorite books or moments from this episode? Join the conversation by filling out our survey for a chance to win our book bundle giveaway! Share your thoughts, favorite episodes, or ideas for future topics.

Stay Connected:
📧 Sign up for our newsletter at Bfreakingawesome.com for the full list of books and more updates.
📱 Follow us on social media and let us know what you’re reading!

Start your year with inspiration, new ideas, and a refreshed mindset—let’s go be freaking awesome together!

You've done the work. The retreats, the books, the coaching. And the pattern is still there. The Invisible Edge Foundation 1:1 Coaching is where that changes. Six sessions, one-on-one, body-based belief work that gets underneath what nothing else has touched. bfreakingawesome.com/podcast-coaching

Support the show

Sign up at bfreakingawesome.com to get the latest news, insights, and episodes straight to your inbox.

Follow Be Freaking Awesome on Facebook, LinkedIn, Youtube, and Instagram.

Let us know what questions you want to be answered and discussed by emailing us at [email protected].

Send us Fan Mail

In this special episode of Be Freaking Awesome, Angela and Sami dive into the power of creating rhythms that truly work for your life. Whether it’s balancing work and rest, navigating personal growth, or finding peace in the chaos, this conversation is packed with insights and personal stories that will leave you feeling inspired and ready to rethink your own flow.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why finding your rhythm isn’t about following the crowd—it’s about knowing yourself.
• How Angela’s restorative trips have transformed her workflow and energy.
• Sami’s journey of letting go of perfectionism and embracing the unpredictability of life.
• Practical ways to incorporate regular rest and avoid burnout.
• The value of empathy and validation when supporting others—and yourself.

Key Takeaways:

• You don’t need to burn out to earn your rest. Creating sustainable rhythms allows you to thrive year-round.
• Flow is different for everyone—what energizes one person may drain another. The key is self-awareness and intention.
• Empathy and curiosity are vital when navigating tough seasons, both for yourself and when supporting others.

Resources Mentioned:

• Super Communicators (book recommendation for mastering connection and communication).
• Info about a group launching to help you build confidence and clarity in who you are.

Whether you're looking to reset for the new year or seeking ways to feel more grounded in your daily life, this episode is a must-listen.

👉 Have questions or want to join our Resilient Leaders group? Reach out to us via email or connect on social media. We’d love to hear from you!

Don’t forget to share this episode with a friend, and until next time—go be freaking awesome!

You've done the work. The retreats, the books, the coaching. And the pattern is still there. The Invisible Edge Foundation 1:1 Coaching is where that changes. Six sessions, one-on-one, body-based belief work that gets underneath what nothing else has touched. bfreakingawesome.com/podcast-coaching

Support the show

Sign up at bfreakingawesome.com to get the latest news, insights, and episodes straight to your inbox.

Follow Be Freaking Awesome on Facebook, LinkedIn, Youtube, and Instagram.

Let us know what questions you want to be answered and discussed by emailing us at [email protected].

Send us Fan Mail

Ready to embrace life’s journey and find purpose through faith and creativity? Kennis Clark, a faith-driven recording artist, joins Angela and Sami for an inspiring conversation about transformation, resilience, and the power of staying true to your calling. Kennis opens up about his personal journey through setbacks and success, revealing how faith and music shaped his life and career.

We explore:

• Overcoming disappointment: How to navigate setbacks and use them as stepping stones for growth.
• Faith and purpose: Kennis’s story of reconnecting with his faith and how it transformed his music and mindset.
• The balance of creativity: Insight into staying authentic while creating art that resonates with others.
• Life lessons and mindset shifts: Angela and Sami share their own experiences with growth, failure, and the importance of the journey.

This episode is filled with wisdom and encouragement to help you stay inspired, embrace your story, and keep moving forward, no matter the challenges. Don’t miss it!

You've done the work. The retreats, the books, the coaching. And the pattern is still there. The Invisible Edge Foundation 1:1 Coaching is where that changes. Six sessions, one-on-one, body-based belief work that gets underneath what nothing else has touched. bfreakingawesome.com/podcast-coaching

Support the show

Sign up at bfreakingawesome.com to get the latest news, insights, and episodes straight to your inbox.

Follow Be Freaking Awesome on Facebook, LinkedIn, Youtube, and Instagram.

Let us know what questions you want to be answered and discussed by emailing us at [email protected].

Send us Fan Mail

Ready to transform your approach to boundaries and reclaim your life? Paige Renee, an executive branding and performance coach, joins Angela and Sami for an eye-opening conversation about the power of setting and maintaining boundaries.

Paige shares how boundaries protect your time, energy, and peace, while also revealing her personal journey of learning to communicate and uphold them.

We explore:

• Practical boundary-setting tips: Learn Paige’s step-by-step process for stating and reinforcing boundaries effectively.
• Breaking free from people-pleasing: Strategies for saying no without guilt and honoring your own needs.
• Work-life balance hacks: How boundaries can reduce burnout and help you thrive in work and relationships.
• Real-life stories and insights: Angela and Sami share their challenges and successes with boundaries, offering relatable and inspiring examples.

This episode is packed with tools and encouragement to help you take control of your life, prioritize your well-being, and build healthier relationships. Don’t miss it!

You've done the work. The retreats, the books, the coaching. And the pattern is still there. The Invisible Edge Foundation 1:1 Coaching is where that changes. Six sessions, one-on-one, body-based belief work that gets underneath what nothing else has touched. bfreakingawesome.com/podcast-coaching

Support the show

Sign up at bfreakingawesome.com to get the latest news, insights, and episodes straight to your inbox.

Follow Be Freaking Awesome on Facebook, LinkedIn, Youtube, and Instagram.

Let us know what questions you want to be answered and discussed by emailing us at [email protected].

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of Be Freaking Awesome, hosts Sami Kinnison and Angela Belford sit down with Jimmy Rock, a Christian DJ, music producer, and artist, to explore his inspiring journey of blending faith, creativity, and persistence to carve out a unique niche in the music industry. From performing on Sharon McMahon’s book tour to creating his upcoming album, Reflections, Jimmy shares how he stays true to his values while pursuing his dreams.

Listeners will hear firsthand:

• How to Navigate Career Challenges: Jimmy shares practical advice on staying ready for opportunities and building a network that opens doors.
• Insights into Creative Branding: Discover the intentionality behind Jimmy’s signature color palette and how it ties into his music and identity.
• Balancing Ambition and Family: Learn how Jimmy prioritizes his faith and family while pursuing a demanding career.
• Life Lessons on Resilience: Gain perspective on taking life one step at a time, staying patient with progress, and trusting the journey.
• Exclusive Behind-the-Scenes Stories: Hear about Jimmy’s experiences as a touring DJ, including his unique role on a book tour and his approach to connecting with diverse audiences.

Whether you're a creative professional, music lover, or someone seeking inspiration to pursue your own dreams, this episode offers a refreshing blend of humor, wisdom, and actionable insights. Tune in to learn how to live a life of impact and authenticity, one step at a time.

Where to Connect with Jimmy Rock
Follow Jimmy Rock on social media and music platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and Instagram @JimmyRock. Stay tuned for updates on his upcoming album Reflections and his latest singles.

Subscribe & Share
If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who would find it valuable. Let’s all go out there and be freaking awesome!

You've done the work. The retreats, the books, the coaching. And the pattern is still there. The Invisible Edge Foundation 1:1 Coaching is where that changes. Six sessions, one-on-one, body-based belief work that gets underneath what nothing else has touched. bfreakingawesome.com/podcast-coaching

Support the show

Sign up at bfreakingawesome.com to get the latest news, insights, and episodes straight to your inbox.

Follow Be Freaking Awesome on Facebook, LinkedIn, Youtube, and Instagram.

Let us know what questions you want to be answered and discussed by emailing us at [email protected].

Send us Fan Mail

In this special episode of Be Freaking Awesome, hosts Sami Kinnison and Angela Belford celebrate three years of podcasting, reflecting on the powerful personal growth and lessons they've learned along the way. With nearly 150 episodes focused on self-improvement, personal development, and resilience, they share their gratitude for the listeners, guests, and the journey of embracing consistency, imperfection, and making a meaningful impact.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into the importance of showing up and committing to personal growth, even when things aren’t perfect. Sami and Angela dive into the power of consistency in self-improvement, how overcoming challenges contributes to success, and how embracing imperfection can lead to profound transformation. The episode also features reflections on impactful conversations with guests who’ve shared their stories of resilience, mindset shifts, and personal transformation.

What You'll Get from This Episode:

• The power of consistency in building resilience and personal growth
• How embracing imperfection can drive success in your personal development journey
• Motivation for overcoming challenges and staying committed to self-improvement
• Inspirational stories of resilience and mindset shifts from guests who have navigated major life changes
• Practical insights on how to create lasting personal transformation and achieve your goals

This episode is packed with motivational content for anyone seeking to make a positive change, overcome obstacles, and improve their mindset. Whether you’re interested in leadership development, emotional intelligence, or personal transformation, you’ll find powerful takeaways to help you on your journey.

Join Sami and Angela as they reflect on their three-year journey of personal development and podcasting. Get ready for inspiring conversations that will empower you to be freaking awesome and take actionable steps toward building a more resilient and successful life.

You've done the work. The retreats, the books, the coaching. And the pattern is still there. The Invisible Edge Foundation 1:1 Coaching is where that changes. Six sessions, one-on-one, body-based belief work that gets underneath what nothing else has touched. bfreakingawesome.com/podcast-coaching

Support the show

Sign up at bfreakingawesome.com to get the latest news, insights, and episodes straight to your inbox.

Follow Be Freaking Awesome on Facebook, LinkedIn, Youtube, and Instagram.

Let us know what questions you want to be answered and discussed by emailing us at [email protected].

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of Be Freaking Awesome, hosts Sami Kinnison and Angela Belford dive deep into the nonlinear journey of healing, exploring why emotional growth, self-compassion, and understanding past traumas are essential for personal development. Whether you're struggling with resurfacing emotions or wondering why healing takes time, this episode offers relatable insights, practical tools, and encouragement to keep moving forward.

Listeners will learn:

• How to reframe self-criticism by asking, “What happened to me?” instead of “What’s wrong with me?”—a key mindset shift for mental health and emotional resilience.
• Practical strategies for safely processing emotions, including creative outlets and mindfulness practices.
• Why ignoring feelings can lead to emotional “blockages” and how to navigate tough moments with self-care and grace.
• The importance of recognizing emotional cycles and finding supportive communities for lasting self-improvement and personal growth.

Through humor, personal stories, and actionable advice, Sami and Angela remind listeners that healing isn’t a straight line—it’s a journey of peeling back layers, just like an onion. If you’ve ever felt stuck in your healing process, this episode will give you the tools and encouragement to keep growing.

Resources Mentioned:

• The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk
• What Happened to You? by Oprah Winfrey and Dr. Bruce Perry

Connect with Us:
Loved this episode? Share it with a friend who’s working on their self-improvement journey, and don’t forget to subscribe for more inspiring conversations about living authentically and being freaking awesome

You've done the work. The retreats, the books, the coaching. And the pattern is still there. The Invisible Edge Foundation 1:1 Coaching is where that changes. Six sessions, one-on-one, body-based belief work that gets underneath what nothing else has touched. bfreakingawesome.com/podcast-coaching

Support the show

Sign up at bfreakingawesome.com to get the latest news, insights, and episodes straight to your inbox.

Follow Be Freaking Awesome on Facebook, LinkedIn, Youtube, and Instagram.

Let us know what questions you want to be answered and discussed by emailing us at [email protected].