Have you ever felt that invisible thread that links you to others? That moment of genuine connection that makes you feel seen, heard, and understood? Today, we’re going to talk about that thread—why it’s the strongest material a leader can use, and why nurturing it is the most beautiful thing you can do for your life. We’ll look at connection in leadership, share a story of a woman who built a movement with it, and explore the most important connection of all: to ourselves.

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Ever had a moment that felt like it stopped the world? Maybe it was a phone call from the doctor, a tough conversation, or a new diagnosis that just took your breath away. That’s the feeling of getting a “rock” handed to you. It’s heavy, it’s unexpected, and it can feel like your entire world just shattered.

But here’s a secret I’ve learned from my own journey: a rock isn’t the end of the story. It’s the very first building block. My “Build it Beautiful” philosophy is all about taking those life-changing moments and using them to construct something even stronger, more vibrant, and more meaningful than you ever imagined.

First things first, you have to admit the rock is there. You can’t build with something you pretend doesn’t exist. It’s okay to feel the fear, the anger, or the sadness. That’s a normal part of the process.

This diagnosis is a part of your story now, but it doesn’t have to define you. It’s just the foundation you’ve been given to build your next beautiful masterpiece.

Once you’ve acknowledged your rock, it’s time to find your “tools.” These are the things that will empower you to build. Think of them as your personal toolkit, designed to help you thrive with your new reality.

This is where the magic happens. Building with your rock isn’t always easy, and it won’t be a straight line. There will be setbacks, but every effort is a step forward.

A diagnosis can actually be an opportunity to find a new purpose. Maybe it’s connecting with others who are going through the same thing, starting a blog, or using your story to help someone else feel less alone.

True confidence isn’t about having a perfect life; it’s about knowing you have the tools to handle whatever comes your way. It’s about finding strength in your vulnerability and realizing that your story, even with its rocks, is a beautiful one.

Ready to start building? What’s one small tool you’re going to grab today to get started?

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I gotta be honest, I did not see this conversation and connection coming. When my dear friend and past podcast co-host, Sabe Anderson, dropped and email in my inbox introducing me to Neil, I was happy to make the acquaintance as always. But did not see the incredible human the Neil was until this conversation.

Neil is the host of the Neuro Dope podcast and has the incredible ability to recall so many facts, histories, and experiences that he is now using as an executive coach. I noticed the couple of times he even took the opportunity to coach me in this session. It was humbling and I was awe struck with his ability to be gentle and not controlling.

Neil’s Podcast, Neuro Dope, is about peer support. it is a real-time model of growing together in moments of co-regulatory safety.

From his own words,

“It is true. I’m autistic. Very neurodivergent. Podcasting was not something I ever thought I would want to do, but I trusted Sabe. And I wanted to become more than a disabled ghost. I have been coaching people for over 20 years. Sabe was the first person to see me and attempt the impossible–make a record of the light we bear. I am a post materialist savant. I get downloads throughout every episode. 

85% of autistics with college degrees like me are disabled precisely because we are not seen or valued, but many of us work all the time caring for our sick and dying family members. What I have to say and what you will hear in this podcast is better explained by The Telepathy Tapes. Our work runs parallel and I hope you have digested all what Ky Dickens has made clear with her excellent work. We all have value. We are all competent, because we carry the light.

-Neil

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Surrounding myself with people who are driven to achieve and have the kindest hearts are my kind of people. Kim Chatto is just that kind of person. Kim is not only a devoted mother and an esteemed Air Force veteran, but she also currently holds the title of Miss Philippines for the Continental Worldwide Pageant. Her journey is one of incredible dedication, from serving our nation as an active duty military officer, first as a nuclear combat crew commander – a role that speaks volumes about her sharp intellect and unwavering responsibility – and then as a Public Affairs Officer for special operations, where she honed her skills in communication and connection under pressure.

Now calling the beautiful state of Utah home alongside her two children and a delightful menagerie of pets, Kim continues to contribute to national security as a defense contractor for the vital Sentinel nuclear weapon project. But her commitment extends far beyond her professional life. Kim is a true builder of communities, channeling her energy and heart into her podcast and philanthropic organization, Highly Favored, a testament to her belief in lifting others and fostering positive change.

When she finds a moment to herself amidst her busy and impactful life, Kim is an avid hockey fan, cheering on our very own Utah Mammoth. She also finds joy in exploring the breathtaking landscapes of our National and state parks, and unwinding with the captivating stories found within the pages of a good book or the narration of a compelling audiobook.

I hope that you enjoy this conversation with Kim as much as I did.

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Connecting with Lorin at Good Gluten Free Grub was match made in heaven. Lorin is a natural born leader and LOVES to connect people with Celiac Disease. She is an incredible example of taking a “life rock” and building with it. When I came across her on her Instagram Account, I knew she needed to be on the podcast.

Lorin’s Story: In 2016 she was diagnosed with Celiac Disease. She felt alone and went through lots of trial and error. She now helps other celiacs, new and old, learn how to eat safely, enjoy gluten free food and thrive with this new autoimmune disease. She loves partnering with fun, innovative brands that serve the gluten free community! She says, “I’m here to help!”

She is a master at organizing and hosting community events since 2021 and loves sharing food and a safe environment for all her gluten free friends! 

In 2022 she started The Good Gluten Free Grub Podcast with the goal of giving people hope that there is still a beautiful on the other side of a challenging diagnosis. Check it out below!

You can find Lorin and her amazing business Good Gluten Free Grub on Instagram @goodglutenfreegrub

And FINALLY, we would love to see you at the Gluten Free Food Truck Rally! Come take a picture with me and enjoy Lorin’s gathering of ALL things gluten free. For anyone with Celiac (like me), this is what dreams are made of!

Equal Eats – Travel Cards for Allergies

The Atly App – Google Maps for Allergies

Find Me Gluten Free – Free Travel Map for Allergies

I am currently taking opportunities to teach Build it Beautiful to groups and communities – both in person and virtually. If you are interested in having me come share this incredibly impactful message, shoot an email to: [email protected]

I’d love to come share and change lives.

DexaDash – body composition scans are $10 off when you use code: BUILDITBEAUTIFUL10

And if you haven’t listened to our podcast, check it out below

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A fun shift in episode topic, but something that shows just how much Build it Beautiful can be applied to any circumstance. I am talking all about the Stained Glass Dress that I made for the Mrs Utah America Pageant State Costume portion of the pageant.

I share the inspiration, miracles, and more about this dress and what I learned from it.

Some people and places to visit to see all about what I share today:

I am currently taking opportunities to teach Build it Beautiful to groups and communities – both in person and virtually. If you are interested in having me come share this incredibly impactful message, shoot an email to: [email protected]

I’d love to come share and change lives.

DexaDash – body composition scans are $10 off when you use code: BUILDITBEAUTIFUL10

And if you haven’t listened to our podcast, check it out below

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Jeff and I go just a ways back, but we’ve had lifetimes of conversations together in our church service that make it feel like years. We shifted gears into business and I am grateful that I got to sit down with Jeff and talk business because Jeff and I line up as we are both in the business of people. People are the product. They are important. They are everything.

You know that business talk lights me up and gets me going and Jeff has all the amazing insights of leadership in business but also in life. Jeff teaches incredibly well on how leadership isn’t a certification, but a way of being. And Jeff has definitely lived that way.

Jeff’s below bio will impress, but I think you’ll be more impressed with how well Jeff share stories and events that teach the lessons we teach in Build it Beautiful.

Jeff Bettinger is an internationally recognized HR executive, culture strategist, and best-selling leadership author to the show. Jeff Bettinger is a global thought leader with a track record of transforming organizations across industries, from Fortune 500 companies to private equity and nonprofit sectors.

Currently serving as the Chief Administrative Officer at Hudson RPO, Jeff has led large-scale organizational transformations, designed high-impact talent strategies, and partnered with executive teams and boards to drive business success. His career spans leadership roles at companies like Nu Skin, Establishment Labs, Alcon, and Petco, where he played a pivotal role in M&A, IPO readiness, executive development, and culture transformation.

Beyond his corporate leadership, Jeff is an Amazon best-selling author and has been named one of the Top 10 Influential HR Leaders and a Top 5 Culture Expert to Follow. He’s passionate about helping organizations build high-performing teams, elevate leadership effectiveness, and navigate the ever-evolving landscape of work.

Jeff currently owns two Hand and Stone Spas in Pleasant Grove and Orem, Utah. He has graciously given my listeners (YOU!!!) a sweet deal. When you book at either sites, you can use code: CLARISSA50 for half off your massage or facial. That’s incredible! Thank you to Jeff.

Saturday, March 29, 2025

6pm

Murray High School – Murray, Utah

Use code: UTCY for a discount on your tickets – both in person and virtual – here www.mrsutahamerica.com

I am currently taking opportunities to teach Build it Beautiful to groups and communities – both in person and virtually. If you are interested in having me come share this incredibly impactful message, shoot an email to: [email protected]

I’d love to come share and change lives.

DexaDash – body composition scans are $10 off when you use code: BUILDITBEAUTIFUL10

And if you haven’t listened to our podcast, check it out below

View All →

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Go from being a Survivor to an Experiencer. That is what Ashley Butler is here to talk to us about today. Ashley and I navigated our thoughts around leadership and life during Build it Beautiful. Ashley has built a beautiful life that “starts in her own home.”

Ashley wrote in her bio:

A bio is much like an active ingredient list. The first thing mentioned has the highest concentration which ultimately means it’s the largest portion of the product. This is why most women (aka the product) with children will essentially list their offspring as their “first ingredient.”  Children may be a product OF YOU, but they do not make up who YOU actually are. 

So who am I? 

I am a highly energetic woman filled with humor and laughter. I firmly believe that everything can be funny if you let it be.  

I don’t love the idea of wearing a busy badge, but I fill my time with my favorite activities: taking a bath, playing pickleball, watching movies, traveling, paper crafting, organizing, southern cooking, lifting, and hosting parties.

I’m a pretty high functioning ADHD person who quickly moves from one activity to the next, allowing much to get done but then nothing to get done all at the same time. 

I am a lover. I love people and serve them often through ways of friendship, inclusion, listening, hearing and seeing them as a person. 

I am currently serving my community as Mrs. Mountain Ridge. My husband and I have been married for 20 years and have lived in Herriman for 10 with our 4 children.

And I couldn’t agree with her more. She embodies this to a T.

If you’d like to find Ashely, you can at @ashleysorensen_butler on Instagram

Saturday, March 29, 2025

6pm

Murray High School – Murray, Utah

Use code: UTCY for a discount on your tickets – both in person and virtual – here www.mrsutahamerica.com

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Sally and Michelle have been integral to my health journey and my life now. Last year as I struggled to find the right help, I was told of miracle workers by a friend and they truly are that. But what I loved is their willingness to share the behind the scenes of their business and passions. You will fall in love with these two and, maybe like me, be inspired to do better and be better.

Vibrant Life is more than just a company – it’s a beacon of hope and transformation for individuals seeking to reclaim their vitality and well-being. And it has been just that for me. They are dedicated to revolutionizing the way people approach health through the transformative power of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) and functional medicine. Their mission is simple yet profound: to empower individuals to live their lives to the fullest by getting to the root of issues, building a strong foundation of health and restoring hormonal balance, thus unlocking patients true potential for having a vibrant life. You are going to love this conversation today.

Michelle is a board certified family nurse practitioner through ANCC. She has 23 years of experience in nursing and 19 as a nurse practitioner. She has found her home at Vibrant Life.  She has nearly 4 years of experience in the field of functional medicine and bioidentical hormone therapy and has been trained by the world’s leading hormone experts. She is passionate about helping patients and always puts them first.

Sally Epperson is a Family Nurse Practitioner, board certified by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners (AANP).  She has specialized in Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy for the past two years and has been personally trained by known experts in the field.  Before this, she worked in primary care for 8 years, working with all populations from pediatrics to geriatrics in providing acute care as well as preventative medicine to improve health outcomes.  Sally is passionate about the delivery of affordable, comprehensive, and quality healthcare, with a focus on improving patient’s longevity and quality of life.

If anything here sparks you, you can find Sally and Michelle at – https://myvibrantlife.co/ If you use Mrs. Utah County you can get a free consult and $100 off your service. They are an official sponsor for the Mrs. Utah America Pageant of 2025 for my run, but I receive nothing in return for sharing their services. They are just that important to get the word out.

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Amanda McCombs is a fellow Mrs. Utah America pageant contestant, representing her community as Mrs. Daybreak. She is a resilient trauma survivor, nurturing (former) teacher, and a mom in an amazing blended family.  She is a podcast host, and is taking her time away from teaching to heal and learn how to live life all over again.

I loved sitting down with Amanda. She brings such depth to conversation and as we talk about, she helps me stay balanced. Having her as my pageant sister has been such a joy seeing her learn and be refined.

Enjoy listening to her thoughts on building it beautiful, but also how life sometimes gets in the way (like kids with questions) and how to gracefully accept all of who we are.

You can find Amanda at @nosogenius on Instagram

And watch out for her on stage during the Mrs. Utah America Pageant – March 29, 2025 at Murray High School. Click here to see if tickets have dropped (usually March 1).

Photo Credit: WFMM Social and Carolina Burton Photography

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