Judge Lucy Van Meter shares her inspiring journey from Bourbon County High to becoming Fayette Circuit Court Judge and now running for Kentucky Court of Appeals. We talk about the challenges of making tough decisions, navigating a demanding legal career, and the importance of mentorship, self-care, and lifelong friendships. Judge Van Meter reminds us to embrace change and stay connected with our communities. If you’re looking for motivation and real-life wisdom, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

Ann Marie Spoonamore is an inspiring biology teacher and assistant athletic director at Henry Clay High School. She shares her journey from student to educator, her passion for helping students both in and out of the classroom, and how she balances a busy career with family life. We dive into the changing landscape of education, the impact of AI in the classroom, and the importance of leading with kindness and authenticity. Tune in for motivation, practical wisdom, and a reminder that, no matter what, it’s all going to be okay.

Kris welcomes Keary Snapp to discuss her inspiring 20+ year journey in the health and wellness industry. Keary shares how her career evolved from personal training and figure competitions to massage therapy, functional wellness coaching, and life coaching. She talks about overcoming personal challenges including addiction and ADHD along the way. She highlights the importance of self-care, mindset, functional health approaches, and investing in oneself. Keary also discusses her involvement with charitable organizations like Natalie's Sisters and Baby Health Service, and her participation in Dancing with the Lexington Stars fundraiser, offering advice for young women in business and recommending inspirational books such as "A Crown That Lasts" by Demi Tebow and "Protect Your Peace" by Trent Shelton. Listeners are encouraged to support local causes and continue investing in their growth and wellbeing.

Katie Neal is a certified executive coach, speaker, and communications consultant who shares about her career path from journalism and public relations to launching Katie Neal Coaching and Consulting. Katie opens up about overcoming perfectionism, shares her experiences preparing for a TEDx talk, and discusses how executive coaching is shifting from a remedial service to a tool for growth and development. The episode covers practical strategies for balancing professional and personal life, the significance of self-care and clarifying personal values, and the lasting impact of mentorship and relationships on career advancement. Katie Neal recommends Michael Bungay Stanier’s book "The Coaching Habit" for leaders wanting to adopt a coaching mindset. Listeners can connect with Katie, subscribe to her newsletter, or learn more about her consulting services at www.katienealconsulting.com.

Michelle Smock is a dynamic business coach and state trainer with the Small Business Development Center. Michelle shares her journey from massage therapist and spa owner to her current role supporting entrepreneurs in Lexington, discusses the importance of networking and overcoming imposter syndrome, and offers actionable tips for harmonizing personal and professional life. The conversation highlights local resources for business owners, the power of women supporting women, and Michelle Smock’s passion project, Dancing with the Lexington Stars, which raises funds for community health initiatives. Tune in for inspiring insights, encouragement, and practical advice from two women dedicated to uplifting the Kentucky business community.

Renee Chew of Paws and Pillows discusses her inspiring journey from a 35-year corporate career to caring for animals and supporting the local community in Kentucky. Renee shares how her business provides loving care for pets and small farm animals, her passion for animal rescue, and her adventures with Marshmallow, her celebrity Nigerian dwarf goat. The conversation also touches on finding work-life balance, the importance of volunteering, and advice for embracing life's unexpected turns. Plus, Renee offers podcast recommendations and practical tips for managing schedules and self-care. If you want to connect with Renee Chew, follow her and Marshmallow on Facebook or reach out via email for pet care or volunteer opportunities.

In this episode of Boss Babes of the Bluegrass, Kris Castle sits down with marriage coach Cristie Cerniglia to discuss her journey from homeschooling mom to transformative relationship coach in Nicholasville, Kentucky. Cristie shares how personal challenges led her to discover and train in intimate relationship skills, ultimately sparking her passion to help women improve their marriages and family lives. The conversation covers practical coaching tips, the importance of women’s influence in the home, valuable self-care strategies, and why investing in relationships pays big dividends for families and society. Cristie also recommends “The Empowered Wife” book and podcast, and invites listeners to access her free download at relationshipswithamap.com or join her private Facebook group, “Save My Marriage Relationships with a Map,” for weekly live content and support on building thriving relationships.

Lauren Brooke is a partner at Brooke and Mills Law Firm in Richmond, KY. Lauren shared her journey from New Jersey to Kentucky, her passion for helping others through family and criminal law, and the importance of leading with kindness both in and out of the courtroom. We also talked about the power of women supporting women, balancing work and life, and making a positive impact in the community—whether that’s running a law firm, rescuing dogs, or simply lifting others up. Tune in for inspiration and practical advice from one of the Bluegrass’s true boss babes!

Ashley Nunn is owner of Sláinte Public House in Georgetown, Kentucky. Ashley Nunn discusses her journey from falling in love with Irish pub culture to building her own thriving local business, including inventive ways she kept Sláinte afloat during the COVID-19 shutdown through community auctions and creative hot dog sales. She shares insight into her leadership style, striving for balance between family, faith, and community involvement, and candid advice for women starting out in business. Ashley Nunn also recommends The Aggressive Life podcast by Brian Tome and several favorite books, such as "All the Light You Cannot See" and "Forty Acres and No Mule." The episode wraps up with details on Sláinte’s charitable efforts, including the annual Toys for Tots drive, and invites listeners to connect via Facebook for updates and events.

Libby Cortez is owner of Sassy Wellness, a Latin dance company focused on empowering women and bridging studio-trained and culturally trained dancers in Lexington, Kentucky. Libby Cortez shares her personal fitness journey, the inspiration behind starting her business, and the challenges she faced in building an inclusive dance community. The conversation also touches on wellness trends post-COVID, work-life harmony, and the impact of Sassy Wellness’s outreach efforts, including hosting charity events and supporting community members in need. Libby offers practical advice for women pursuing their passions and emphasizes the importance of being open to unexpected opportunities. To connect or learn more about her classes and events, visit SassyWellnesswithLibby.com or find her on Facebook as Sassy Wellness with Libby.