How do you go from reporting the news to writing your own book series? This week, Kelly sits down with award-winning author Andrea Thome to talk about her journey from sports reporter to novelist and how she found her way into the world of writing and publishing.

Andrea takes us behind the scenes of the writing process—from where she finds inspiration and creates her characters to what it actually takes to turn an idea into a finished novel. She also shares the story behind Mine Again, the first book in her new Sunflower Series, and what readers can expect from this next chapter.

Plus, Andrea talks about life beyond the books, becoming an empty nester, what’s next, and of course, what’s making her Bloom Bright right now.

Shelly is back, and this episode is all about what we’re loving right now! We’re talking current trends, the skincare, beauty products and treatments we’re trying, things that are actually worth the hype, and the latest kid obsessions—including the squishy craze and everything you need to know about NeeDohs.

It’s a light, fun sister catch-up filled with current favorites, things we’ve been influenced to buy, and a few things we definitely didn’t need…but are very happy we bought. Consider this your girlfriend guide to what we’re into right now!

Dr. Mira Albert is the founder of Brush Pediatric Dentistry, a mom of two boys, and an entrepreneur who turned her passion for working with kids into a thriving practice with two locations.

Mira joins Kelly to share her journey from dental school and pediatric training to taking the leap and opening Brush Pediatric Dentistry, growing her business, and navigating motherhood along the way. They also get into the dental questions every parent wants answered—including what to do in a dental emergency, something Kelly learned firsthand when her son Austin had one and Mira saved the day! Plus, Mira shares simple tips for keeping kids’ teeth healthy, a few memorable stories from her career, and joins Kelly for a fun round of rapid fire.

This week on Bloom Bright, I'm joined by the founder of Once Upon a Dollhouse and Dollhouse Social to talk about her journey from public relations to content creator to entrepreneur. We dive into how she built her signature lifestyle brand, developed her personal style, and turned years of experience into a business that helps other brands grow with purpose.

We also pull back the curtain on social media today—how it's evolved over the years, what actually makes a brand stand out, and why authenticity and strategy matter more than ever.

Plus, Caitlin shares entertaining tips, travel favorites, rapid-fire fun, and of course, what's making her bloom bright.

Sending your child off to college is exciting, emotional...and a little overwhelming. Whether you're preparing for your first move-in day or your fifth, this episode is full of practical advice and reassurance.

Kelly sits down with friend and mom of five, Lisa Doyle, to talk about everything from dorm shopping, move-in day, and saying goodbye to homesickness, care packages, Life360, boys versus girls, flying versus driving, and all the little things they wish parents knew before their kids left home. Lisa also shares plenty of funny stories and hard-earned wisdom from sending all five of her children to college.

If college is in your family's near future, this is one episode you'll want to save.

What does it take to rise to the top in one of the most demanding careers imaginable? This week, Kelly sits down with Margaret "Mimi" McGreal, who spent more than 26 years with the Illinois State Police and became the first female Colonel of the Division of Patrol.

Mimi shares her incredible journey through a male-dominated profession, the leadership lessons she learned along the way, and how she stayed calm while making split-second decisions in high-pressure situations. From unforgettable stories on the job to her surprising stint as a Jerry Springer bouncer, this conversation is equal parts inspiring, insightful, and entertaining.

Whether you're leading a team, navigating challenges at work, or simply looking to build more confidence and resilience, you'll walk away with practical wisdom and a whole new appreciation for the people behind the badge.

In this episode, Kelly sits down with Olya Borsuk, co-founder of InfuseWell Concierge, to share her journey of building a successful wellness business and helping clients take a proactive approach to their health. From IV therapy and medical weight loss to regenerative skincare and healthy aging, Olya breaks down some of today's biggest wellness topics in an approachable and easy-to-understand way.

But this conversation goes far beyond wellness. Kelly gets to know the woman behind the business as Olya shares her personal story, balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship, her favorite wellness splurges, and the habits she swears by. It's a fun, candid conversation filled with practical tips, plenty of laughs, and a glimpse into the life of a woman who's passionate about helping others feel their best.

The episode wraps up with a fun rapid-fire round and the questions that reveal what's making Olya bloom bright in this season of life.  

Mahjong may be having a major moment, but for Michelle Dermenjian—better known as Missy Mahjong—it has always been about so much more than the game itself. In this episode, Michelle shares how she turned her love of mahjong into bringing people together through connection, conversation, and a little friendly competition.

We talk about the story behind Missy Mahjong, the fundraising events and charitable work she's passionate about, and why games are one of the best ways to unplug and reconnect with the people around us. We also dive into her love of needlepoint, favorite games for every occasion, and all the fun things she keeps in her bag.

Whether you're a seasoned mahjong player or have never touched a tile, this conversation is packed with ideas for bringing more fun, friendship, and connection into your life. 

This week on Bloom Bright with Kelly, I’m joined by Heather McCarthy, co-founder of The Set Fitness, for a real conversation about fitness, nutrition, consistency, and finding healthier habits that actually fit into real life.

Heather shares her journey from fitness instructor to gym owner, along with simple, realistic tips for women who want to feel stronger and healthier without striving for perfection. We also talk about raising confident daughters in today’s social media-driven world, staying motivated through different seasons of life, and the small habits that can make a big difference over time.

It’s honest, relatable, and full of practical takeaways you can actually use.

In this episode of Bloom Bright, Kelly sits down with Shannon Keating for a conversation about living with purpose in every season of life.

Shannon shares her journey from growing up in a faith-filled, close-knit family to building a life centered around her own values of faith, family, and service. As a wife of nearly 25 years, a mom of four entering the almost–empty nest stage, a Physical Therapist, business owner, and health coach, Shannon opens up about what it really looks like to manage a full life with intention.

Together, they talk about staying grounded when life is busy, prioritizing health after years of putting others first, trusting God in big decisions, and finding joy in both the everyday moments and the transitions that come with each new season.

If you’re looking for encouragement to slow down, refocus, and live more intentionally, this episode will leave you feeling inspired to bloom bright right where you are.