Can I Laugh On Your Shoulder?

My guest this week is Warwick Fairfax, a leadership adviser who helps people uncover their unique path to effective leadership through the learning power of story and an enlightening path of self-discovery.

Growing up in a prominent family-owned media business in Australia that he eventually led – and lost – Warwick has both witnessed and experienced the challenges of high-pressure, high-impact leadership.

After losing the 150-year-old family business, Warwick examined not only his own shortcomings and losses, but also life principles and lessons he learned from family members that came before him and some of history's greatest leaders.

5:07 – Warwick 101

• Warwick's brand, Crucible Leadership, is about getting past setbacks and failures to lead a life of significance dedicated to serving others.
• He grew up in a very wealthy, privileged background in Australia. His family owned a 150-year-old massive media business.
• He spent many years trying to live up to his family's expectations.

9:16 – Company's ideals

• Warwick's family felt like the business had strayed from its ideals.
• Money, influence and prestige changed people's perspectives, and there was fighting among the family.

12:30 – Company goes south

• After Warwick took over the family business, the company went south. As a reserved person who doesn't like the limelight, it was a nightmare for him to deal with and very brutal.

15:03 – How he rebounded

• Warwick was fortunate that he came to America and married his wife. He realized God loves him unconditionally and he is more than his mistakes.
• He was never attracted to money, and it's not vitally important to him.
• He and his wife had kids in the 1990s, and his background was irrelevant to his children.

20:45 – Finding his identity

• It took years for Warwick to find his identity and purpose.
• You have to stop comparing yourself to others. Warwick does his best work, but he is not defined by what he does.

25:38 – Crucible Leadership

• Your worst day does not define you. Sometimes your mission in life comes out of a crucible.

28:26 – Life is about evolving

• He tells his children that life has a habit of evolving, and you need to make the best choice you can at the time.
• Trust the process and trust yourself.

34:16 – Get to know you

• Favorite TV show growing up? Skippy the bush kangaroo
• Favorite meal? Artichokes and cheesecake

FEATURED QUOTES

Your self-esteem isn't about how good a meal you cooked or how perfect your house is or how successful your business is.

I'm not somebody that's ever been attracted by money. I'm not against it, but it's not something that's vitally important to me.

I try and do my level best at whatever I do, but yet, I'm not defined by what I do.

I'm trying to wean my self-esteem off of success and achievements.

CONNECT WITH WARWICK FAIRFAX:

• https://crucibleleadership.com/

ABOUT WARWICK FAIRFAX:

Warwick Fairfax is the founder of Crucible Leadership, a philosophical and practical breakthrough in turning business and personal failures into the fuel for igniting a life of significance. He has been hailed by Forbes as offering "compelling insights for anyone who would like to wake up feeling inspired by their work, but doesn't" … insights rooted not in a checklist of glib to-do's but in his own experience at the epicenter of one of the most spectacular business failures in the history of his home nation of Australia.

Fairfax was only 26 when, as the fifth-generation heir to a media empire bearing his family name, he led — and lost — a multibillion-dollar public takeover bid. The result? The company founded by his great-great grandfather slipped from family control after 150 years, leaving him to examine not only his own shortcomings and losses, but also his life's principles and the lessons he learned from family members who came before him and some of history's greatest leaders. It has been by shaping these insights as a leadership adviser that Fairfax has enabled others to learn from what he describes as their own "crucible experiences" and emerge to lead a life rooted in who they are. His journey has opened a door for men and women from all walks of life to not only bounce back from failure, but to become the leaders they were born to be.

Fairfax is the author of Crucible Leadership: Embrace Your Trials to Lead a Life of Significance (Mount Tabor Media, 2021). In the book discusses for the first time his thoughts and actions in launching the John Fairfax Ltd. takeover and explains what he learned about himself from that devastating failure — who he was and was not, what his unique design, purpose, passions and vision really were.

He shares insights from his experience and interviews other leaders who have leveraged their crucible moments to live and lead with significance on the podcast BEYOND THE CRUCIBLE, available through all major podcasting channels.

Fairfax holds an undergraduate degree in Philosophy, Politics and Economics from Oxford University and earned his MBA from Harvard Business School. He is an International Coach Federation (ICF) certified executive coach. He is an Elder at Bay Area Community Church.

He lives in Annapolis, Maryland, with his wife, Gale. They have three children who are in the process of developing their own unique paths to lives of significance.

THANK YOU TO OUR PARTNERS:

Ready to ditch the bleach forever but can't find a bleach alternative that actually works? You've got to meet this Extra Strength Oxygen Powder by MamaSuds. It launches July 15th and I've had the chance to try it out early and I love it so much! It really tackles the dirt and odor in our clothes. And as usual there are multiple uses for this new product. Not only is it a laundry booster and stain remover, but it's a great scouring agent on any non-porous surface. If you head to their website and sign up for their email list you'll get an email with an early bird special coupon when oxygen powder launches PLUS use discount code MOLLY and get an EXTRA 15% off! www.mamasuds.com

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Speaking of stories behind brands that change the world, I'd like to introduce you to Deux Mains. In French, Deux Mains means two hands. Why 'two-hands'? Because everything they create is made by trained artisans who use their two hands to make their life better while crafting beautiful products.

Truly, this is a company that set out to change lives and make a positive impact in the world. It started when the founder, Julie, wanted to create dignified jobs in Haiti, a place she was growing to love, and that was exploding with creativity. She wanted to share this talent with the world.

Julie set up an educational program to train people with artisan skills and then went on to build a factory that operates on 100% solar energy. Deux Mains now employs more than 40 artisans that handcraft premium leather goods, jewelry and sandals. Their lives are forever changed by their craft.

What's also cool is their products incorporate an eco-friendly twist, working with responsibly sourced materials and repurposed inner-tube and tires in their designs.

When you buy from Deux Mains, you get to be part of a movement that is making a difference in the world, while adding an incredibly well-made piece to your closet that supports conscious living!

You can discover their products online at deuxmains.com and use code MOLLY for 15% off!

My guest this week is Holly Christine Hayes, founder and CEO of Sanctuary Project, a survivor-run nonprofit social enterprise in Austin, Texas, employing and empowering women who've survived lives of trafficking, violence, and addiction.

As a survivor herself, Holly knows the path to recovery can be long and rocky. Her vision and leadership create a safe space for other survivors to grow in practical skills, unleash their creativity, embrace their femininity, and heal their hearts – all in community with other survivors.

Holly is an award-winning author, podcaster and coveted women's ministry and business leadership speaker. She and her husband, Jeff, enjoy life on a hobby farm, with their chickens, goats, cows, dogs, and the newest addition to the farm, their daughter Havana, who they welcomed two years ago.

6:15 – Holly 101

• Holly was a trafficking survivor and now spends her days focusing on redemption and telling her story.
• Her trafficking lasted a few months, but she has had a rich life since. Although she was trafficked, that's no who she is.
• She now has a jewelry line and helps other women.

10:32 – Glorifying difficult stories

• Society often glorifies difficult stories and gruesome details. We should focus on how people became respectable members of society and turned their lives around.
• The pornography of pain is a real thing.

16:36 – A rad life

• The rad life Holly has today didn't come overnight. She now has freedom in Christ and fought hard for it.
• If you're in a tough journey, be patient with yourself. You'll experience failures and successes. It's important to have those life experiences.

21:59 – Helping women

• Holly helps women with therapeutic tools and Biblical tools.
• Many of the women struggle with self-hatred and self-esteem issues. Holly surrounds them with positive feedback and beautiful things.

25:28 – Starting a non-profit

• Holly started her career as a shoe shiner and then worked in real estate and fashion before starting her non-profit.

31:38 – Challenges in business

• Holly never expected her business to be as successful as it is. She found a much larger market for it than she imagined.
• Doors have swung wide open, and it's an interesting problem to have.
• Her biggest challenge is accepting help and giving up some control.

48:42 – On the horizon

• Holly is excited to have some new products coming out for the holidays.
• She has an expanded stain glass collection coming.

49:31 – Get to know you

• Why start a farm? She lived in Paris before moving to Austin and was used to cheaper prices for goat cheese. She and her husband joked about getting a goat. Long story short, she now has goats but never milks them.

FEATURED QUOTES

Because my internal world is well, my external world is well as well. I can make decisions for myself and set boundaries for myself to keep that world well.

I want survivors, I want women to feel so empowered that they are not their past. They are not their story.

Yes, I was trafficked, but that's not the entirety of my story or who I am.

This rad life I have today didn't come overnight.

CONNECT WITH HOLLY

• https://www.hollychristinehayes.com/

ABOUT HOLLY CHRISTINE HAYES:

Holly is a survivor of human trafficking, abuse, and addiction. When she hit rock bottom, she found herself homeless and crying out on the floor of a public bathroom. Now she is the Founder/CEO of a company helping other women break out of the dark cycle. Sanctuary Project is a survivor-run nonprofit jewelry enterprise, based in Austin, that provides meaningful employment and job training to women who have survived trafficking, violence and addiction. Holly is now a wife, mom author and speaker.

Holly Christine Hayes is Founder + CEO of Sanctuary Project, a survivor-run nonprofit social enterprise employing and empowering women who've survived lives of trafficking, violence and addiction in Austin, Texas. Holly is a survivor of human trafficking, abuse, and addiction. When she hit rock bottom, she found herself homeless and crying out on the floor of a public bathroom. Her vision and leadership create a safe space for other survivors to grow in practical skills, unleash their creativity, embrace their femininity, and heal their hearts – all in community with other survivors.

Holly is passionate about sharing her vulnerable journey of healing. She speaks in jails, recovery communities and conferences all over the globe. She and her husband, Jeff, enjoy life on a hobby farm and vineyard outside of Austin, with their chickens, goats, cows, dogs and one-year-old daughter Havana.

THANK YOU TO OUR PARTNERS:

Ready to ditch the bleach forever but can't find a bleach alternative that actually works? You've got to meet this Extra Strength Oxygen Powder by MamaSuds. It launches July 15th and I've had the chance to try it out early and I love it so much! It really tackles the dirt and odor in our clothes. And as usual there are multiple uses for this new product. Not only is it a laundry booster and stain remover, but it's a great scouring agent on any non-porous surface. If you head to their website and sign up for their email list you'll get an email with an early bird special coupon when oxygen powder launches PLUS use discount code MOLLY and get an EXTRA 15% off! www.mamasuds.com

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Speaking of stories behind brands that change the world, I'd like to introduce you to Deux Mains. In French, Deux Mains means two hands. Why 'two-hands'? Because everything they create is made by trained artisans who use their two hands to make their life better while crafting beautiful products.

Truly, this is a company that set out to change lives and make a positive impact in the world. It started when the founder, Julie, wanted to create dignified jobs in Haiti, a place she was growing to love, and that was exploding with creativity. She wanted to share this talent with the world.

Julie set up an educational program to train people with artisan skills and then went on to build a factory that operates on 100% solar energy. Deux Mains now employs more than 40 artisans that handcraft premium leather goods, jewelry and sandals. Their lives are forever changed by their craft.

What's also cool is their products incorporate an eco-friendly twist, working with responsibly sourced materials and repurposed inner-tube and tires in their designs.

When you buy from Deux Mains, you get to be part of a movement that is making a difference in the world, while adding an incredibly well-made piece to your closet that supports conscious living!

You can discover their products online at deuxmains.com and use code MOLLY for 15% off!

My guest this week is Christy Wright, a #1 national best-selling author, personal development expert and host of The Christy Wright Show. Since 2009, she has worked at Ramsey Solutions. Her new book, Take Back Your Time: The Guilt-Free Guide to Life Balance, is being released Sept. 14. It's a guilt-free guide to life balance.

3:50 – Christy 101

• For the past 10 years, Christy has helped women start small businesses. She has been expanding beyond business and helping people in personal development.
• She's also a mom to three kids – 6, 4 and 1.

6:45 – Entrepreneurship

• Christy was raised by a single mom who was an entrepreneur, and Christy started her own businesses.
• An influx of people started online businesses, but they didn't have any business background, so Christy began helping them.
• Eventually, she wanted to teach about more than just business.

13:20 – Work-life balance

• In 11 years of being a public speaker, the number one question she's asked is about work-life balance.
• She began trying to find solutions to the work-life balance question people asked.
• What we really need is different than what we think we need.

19:03 – A different definition

• Christy says she defines balance in the book but says it's not a warm, fuzzy thing.
• It's about doing the right things at the right time. She defines the path to balance.

21:32 – Root causes of imbalance

• Four things keep us from doing the right things at the right time – doing too many things, not doing enough things, doing the wrong things, and not doing the right things.

25:33 – Losing yourself

• You don't lose yourself overnight. It's a little at a time. Life gets busy. You've got kids who need snacks.
• Ask yourself: What is important to you? This can differ depending on the season you're in.
• Christy wants to help people get their time back and get back to who they are in the process.

34:59 – The path to balance

• Step 1: Figure out what matters
• Step 2: Stop doing what doesn't matter
• Step 3: Create a calendar that reflects what matters
• Step 4: Protect what matters
• Step 5: Be present for what matters

41:35 – Feel like you're failing?

• Women often say they feel like they're failing, but they're not, they're just always focused on the place where they're not.

47:19 – Dangerous messages

• There are two somewhat dangerous messages out there. One, in the faith world, is the dangerous message of submission. Two, in the personal development world, is the dangerous message that women should focus only on themselves.

52:17 – Get to know you

• Her hype song? Anything by Black Eyed Peas
• Unusual talent? She can say the alphabet backwards

FEATURED QUOTES

What if balance isn't something you do, what if it's something you create?

I wrote the book I needed.

I started having a desire to teach on more than just business.

You don't lose yourself overnight. It's a little at a time. Life gets busy. You've got kids who need snacks.

I want to help people get their time back and get back to who they are in the process.

LINKS:

• https://www.ramseysolutions.com/christy-wright

THANK YOU TO OUR PARTNERS:

Ready to ditch the bleach forever but can't find a bleach alternative that actually works? You've got to meet this Extra Strength Oxygen Powder by MamaSuds. It launches July 15th and I've had the chance to try it out early and I love it so much! It really tackles the dirt and odor in our clothes. And as usual there are multiple uses for this new product. Not only is it a laundry booster and stain remover, but it's a great scouring agent on any non-porous surface. If you head to their website and sign up for their email list you'll get an email with an early bird special coupon when oxygen powder launches PLUS use discount code MOLLY and get an EXTRA 15% off! www.mamasuds.com

----

Speaking of stories behind brands that change the world, I'd like to introduce you to Deux Mains. In French, Deux Mains means two hands. Why 'two-hands'? Because everything they create is made by trained artisans who use their two hands to make their life better while crafting beautiful products.

Truly, this is a company that set out to change lives and make a positive impact in the world. It started when the founder, Julie, wanted to create dignified jobs in Haiti, a place she was growing to love, and that was exploding with creativity. She wanted to share this talent with the world.

Julie set up an educational program to train people with artisan skills and then went on to build a factory that operates on 100% solar energy. Deux Mains now employs more than 40 artisans that handcraft premium leather goods, jewelry and sandals. Their lives are forever changed by their craft.

What's also cool is their products incorporate an eco-friendly twist, working with responsibly sourced materials and repurposed inner-tube and tires in their designs.

When you buy from Deux Mains, you get to be part of a movement that is making a difference in the world, while adding an incredibly well-made piece to your closet that supports conscious living!

You can discover their products online at deuxmains.com and use code MOLLY for 15% off!

My guest this week is Wes Hurt, a father of two boys, a serial entrepreneur and a person in recovery from drug and alcohol addiction. His love of business coupled with the desire to use his experiences and gifts for the greatest good resulted in the birth of CLEAN Cause.

Wes created an Organic Sparkling Yerba Mate beverage as an alternative and organic caffeine source. Based in Austin, his business supports addiction recovery with 50% of net profits funding sober living scholarships.

4:43 – Wes 101

• Wes began experimenting with drugs and alcohol in high school. Over the next 20 years, his addiction grew.
• He went to six rehabs and one psych ward. He had a daily addiction to opiates and was popping 30 to 35 pills a day and added crack on top of that.

11:15 – The root cause

• People shared their addiction stories with Wes, and he realized how big the problem was.
• Society often focuses on the leaves of a tree versus the roots. The root cause of addiction is more important to understand.
• Addiction is just a flavor of affliction. We've all got something. We all use something to fix it, to cope or to medicate or to heal.

18:15 – CLEAN Cause

• Wes says entrepreneurship chose him, he didn't choose it.
• He enjoyed starting businesses and had an inherent desire to make businesses better.
• Within months of getting sober, he had a flicker of inspiration to use his story to help others.

32:03 – Company with a mission

• His Organic Sparkling Yerba Mate beverage has low- and no-calorie options.
• His company provides scholarships to people who need help.

39:07 – Why a sparkling beverage?

• Wes loves caffeine, so he wanted to create a sparkling beverage.
• He wanted a drink that didn't make him feel like crap.

41:57 – What's next?

• He wants to further develop his non-profit, the CLEAN Cause Foundation.
• Wes is talking with a few big celebrities about promoting the brand.

47:58 – Get to know you

• Who would play Wes in a movie about his life? He doesn't know, maybe Dax Shepard.
• His favorite meal? Pepperoni pizza

FEATURED QUOTES

Addiction is just my flavor of affliction. That's it. We've all got something. We all use something to fix it, to cope or to medicate or to heal.

What I believe is society often focuses on the leaves of a tree versus the roots.

We have a spine. We're bold. We're not looking for handouts.

SHOP NOW: https://cleancause.com/discount/PURPOSE (Use code PURPOSE for 30% off your first order!)

ABOUT CLEAN CAUSE:

Clean Cause is on a mission to support individuals in recovery from alcohol and drug addiction by donating 50% of profits to fund sober living scholarships. Coined "CLEAN Kickstarts," these are intended to bridge the critical gap between rehab & reintegration. The CLEAN Cause product line consists of 9 amazing tasting, USDA organic certified, sparkling yerba maté beverages that come in low & zero calorie options. Each 16-ounce can is packed with 160mgs of organic caffeine to power your everyday passions all the while supporting individuals recovering from alcohol & drug addiction. CLEAN Cause's 40 plus employees are dedicated to building a brand that empowers consumers to leverage their purchases that ultimately support individuals in recovery from alcohol & drug addiction.

ABOUT WES HURT:

Wes is a father of two boys, a serial entrepreneur, and a person in recovery from alcohol and drug addiction. His love of business coupled with the desire to use his experiences and gifts for the greatest good resulted in the birth of CLEAN Cause. Based in Austin, Texas, CLEAN's innovative business model supports addiction recovery with 50% of net profits funding sober living scholarships. Being an avid consumer of caffeine, he created a product that he knew would fill a need he had in his everyday life - an amazing tasting organic sparkling yerba mate with low sugar & 160mg of naturally sourced caffeine per can. Since then, CLEAN Cause has granted over 2,170 sober living scholarships representing more than $1,085,000.

THANK YOU TO OUR PARTNERS:

Ready to ditch the bleach forever but can't find a bleach alternative that actually works? You've got to meet this Extra Strength Oxygen Powder by MamaSuds. It launches July 15th and I've had the chance to try it out early and I love it so much! It really tackles the dirt and odor in our clothes. And as usual there are multiple uses for this new product. Not only is it a laundry booster and stain remover, but it's a great scouring agent on any non-porous surface. If you head to their website and sign up for their email list you'll get an email with an early bird special coupon when oxygen powder launches PLUS use discount code MOLLY and get an EXTRA 15% off! www.mamasuds.com

----

Speaking of stories behind brands that change the world, I'd like to introduce you to Deux Mains. In French, Deux Mains means two hands. Why 'two-hands'? Because everything they create is made by trained artisans who use their two hands to make their life better while crafting beautiful products.

Truly, this is a company that set out to change lives and make a positive impact in the world. It started when the founder, Julie, wanted to create dignified jobs in Haiti, a place she was growing to love, and that was exploding with creativity. She wanted to share this talent with the world.

Julie set up an educational program to train people with artisan skills and then went on to build a factory that operates on 100% solar energy. Deux Mains now employs more than 40 artisans that handcraft premium leather goods, jewelry and sandals. Their lives are forever changed by their craft.

What's also cool is their products incorporate an eco-friendly twist, working with responsibly sourced materials and repurposed inner-tube and tires in their designs.

When you buy from Deux Mains, you get to be part of a movement that is making a difference in the world, while adding an incredibly well-made piece to your closet that supports conscious living!

You can discover their products online at deuxmains.com and use code MOLLY for 15% off!

My guest today is Justin Kendrick, the lead pastor of Vox Church, which he founded in 2011 with a small group of friends on the doorstep of Yale University. Since then, Vox has grown to multiple locations across New England. Justin's newest book, "Bury Your Ordinary: Practical Habits of a Heart Fully Alive," walks you through seven different habits to live the life that you were created to live.

3:30 – Justin 101

• Justin is 38 and lives in the northeast. He grew up in a typical home and had an encounter with God as a teenager that changed his life.
• His dad dragged him to an urban, inner city church, and it was the first time he heard about God's grace. The whole direction of his life changed.
• In 2008-09, he and his wife dreamed about starting a church. Vox Church turns 10 this September.

10:11 – Bury Your Ordinary

• Justin heard the voice of the Holy Spirit in his heart.
• You need to ask yourself what your plan is for spiritual growth. It's growth in love, and that can seem ambiguous.
• It's not how many Bible verses you know. It's about habits. Justin's book helps people grow in their love for God.

20:40 – Spend time with God

• You need to spend time alone with God regularly. Try spending the first hour alone with Him.
• Jesus is not at the center for a lot of us, and we need to keep him there.
• You don't do these habits so God likes you more. You do them so you can learn to love God more.

30:40 – Most difficult habit

• Habit 6, a weekly Sabbath, was the most difficult. Everybody in Justin's area walks, talks, drives and moves fast. Taking a break to pause and pray felt very unnatural.
• That time to rest is so important for your soul. There are seasons for harvest, and there are seasons for rest.

43:05 – The idea of grace

• No matter what religion you practice, grace is so important.
• God deeply loves you. Don't obey God to be accepted. You are fully accepted, so that should make you want to obey God.

46:54 – Get to know you

• What would Justin want to win an Olympic medal in? Basketball
• Best vacation ever? Mexico with his wife

FEATURED QUOTES

We had always seen church as a profoundly boring and irrelevant part of the culture of New England. So we started dreaming about what it would look like to start a church for our friends.

I heard the voice of the Holy Spirit in my heart.

If you don't have a plan for spiritual growth, it really won't grow.

LINKS:

• https://voxchurch.org/home
• https://amzn.to/2Yf27YD

About Justin Kendrick:

Justin Kendrick is the lead pastor of Vox Church, which he founded in 2011 with a small group of friends on the doorstep of Yale University. Since then, Vox has grown to multiple locations across New England. The dream of Vox Church is to see the least-churched region of the U.S. become the most spiritually vibrant place on earth. Justin and his wife live outside New Haven, Connecticut with their four children.

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THANK YOU TO OUR PARTNERS:

Ready to ditch the bleach forever but can't find a bleach alternative that actually works? You've got to meet this Extra Strength Oxygen Powder by MamaSuds. It launches July 15th and I've had the chance to try it out early and I love it so much! It really tackles the dirt and odor in our clothes. And as usual there are multiple uses for this new product. Not only is it a laundry booster and stain remover, but it's a great scouring agent on any non-porous surface. If you head to their website and sign up for their email list you'll get an email with an early bird special coupon when oxygen powder launches PLUS use discount code MOLLY and get an EXTRA 15% off! www.mamasuds.com

----

Speaking of stories behind brands that change the world, I'd like to introduce you to Deux Mains. In French, Deux Mains means two hands. Why 'two-hands'? Because everything they create is made by trained artisans who use their two hands to make their life better while crafting beautiful products.

Truly, this is a company that set out to change lives and make a positive impact in the world. It started when the founder, Julie, wanted to create dignified jobs in Haiti, a place she was growing to love, and that was exploding with creativity. She wanted to share this talent with the world.

Julie set up an educational program to train people with artisan skills and then went on to build a factory that operates on 100% solar energy. Deux Mains now employs more than 40 artisans that handcraft premium leather goods, jewelry and sandals. Their lives are forever changed by their craft.

What's also cool is their products incorporate an eco-friendly twist, working with responsibly sourced materials and repurposed inner-tube and tires in their designs.

When you buy from Deux Mains, you get to be part of a movement that is making a difference in the world, while adding an incredibly well-made piece to your closet that supports conscious living!

You can discover their products online at deuxmains.com and use code MOLLY for 15% off!

Today we have a special guest, Emily Grey of The Flourish Market. She is one of my nearest and dearest friends and was one of the first guests on this show. Today she's sharing her expertise in wholesaling and how to thrive with your business, even during a pandemic.

If you are a brand owner, this is your episode. If you are a consumer, I think you might be fascinated by our discussion. Today we're talking about how to get started wholesaling and why it matters.

8:38 – From fashion truck to brick and mortar

• Five years ago, Emily had a fashion truck. She was a one-woman show, packing the orders and shipping.
• She now has a team of 16 and has scaled her business with no loans.
• When the pandemic hit, she closed her shop and leaned into her investment banking background. She stepped up as a retail consultant.

13:17 – Changing retail landscape

• There's a lot of bad advice on the Internet, for businesses especially.
• The biggest thing that's changed in the retail landscape is they are only asking themselves one question – Will this sell?

17:23 – Smaller, smarter buying decisions

• Retailers are now making smaller, smarter and more frequent purchases and ordering every 3 to 4 weeks instead of every 3 to 4 months.
• If you're already wholesaling, lower your opening order to $150 instead of $500 to $1,000.

20:42 – Ship quickly and use online shopping

• Businesses are now ordering first from brands that can ship quickly.
• Online shopping and curbside deliveries are more popular than ever.
• Make your pictures better than ever. Consumers associate the nicety of your product with the nicety of your images.

25:40 – Shopping values

• Consumers are focusing on shopping their values when it comes to themselves and when they're gifting.
• Made in the USA, black-owned, female-owned and ethically made are just some of the things people look for when shopping.

31:49 – Product innovation

• Retailers want to discover something new and are looking for innovation.
• Do 4 to 6 mini collection launches per year instead of just fall and spring.

41:41 – Pitch mistakes to avoid

• Reach out to businesses and pitch them. But there are some mistakes to avoid. Don't copy and paste mass messages. Don't make it about you, your brand and your brand story. It should be about the retailer.

1:03:33 – Full circle moment

• Emily has been successful by surrounding herself with women and coaches who support her. It matters who you spend your time with and who you give your ear to.
• There is an absolute need to be around people who say, "I believe in you."

FEATURED QUOTES

I think it matters who you spend your time with and who you give your ear to. – Emily

That is an absolute need to be around people who say, "I believe in you." – Emily

Consumers associate the nicety of your product with the nicety of your images. – Emily

I'm known for an inspirational kick in the pants. – Emily

LINKS

• https://emilygreyco.com/
• https://www.theflourishmarket.com/
• https://thewholesaleway.com/businesswithpurpose

THANK YOU TO OUR PARTNERS:

Ready to ditch the bleach forever but can't find a bleach alternative that actually works? You've got to meet this Extra Strength Oxygen Powder by MamaSuds. It launches July 15th and I've had the chance to try it out early and I love it so much! It really tackles the dirt and odor in our clothes. And as usual there are multiple uses for this new product. Not only is it a laundry booster and stain remover, but it's a great scouring agent on any non-porous surface. If you head to their website and sign up for their email list you'll get an email with an early bird special coupon when oxygen powder launches PLUS use discount code MOLLY and get an EXTRA 15% off! www.mamasuds.com

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Speaking of stories behind brands that change the world, I'd like to introduce you to Deux Mains. In French, Deux Mains means two hands. Why 'two-hands'? Because everything they create is made by trained artisans who use their two hands to make their life better while crafting beautiful products.

Truly, this is a company that set out to change lives and make a positive impact in the world. It started when the founder, Julie, wanted to create dignified jobs in Haiti, a place she was growing to love, and that was exploding with creativity. She wanted to share this talent with the world.

Julie set up an educational program to train people with artisan skills and then went on to build a factory that operates on 100% solar energy. Deux Mains now employs more than 40 artisans that handcraft premium leather goods, jewelry and sandals. Their lives are forever changed by their craft.

What's also cool is their products incorporate an eco-friendly twist, working with responsibly sourced materials and repurposed inner-tube and tires in their designs.

When you buy from Deux Mains, you get to be part of a movement that is making a difference in the world, while adding an incredibly well-made piece to your closet that supports conscious living!

You can discover their products online at deuxmains.com and use code MOLLY for 15% off!

My guest today is Adeyinka "Yinka" Adegbenle. She is a former financial services professional turned author, excellence strategist and excellence coach. Her goal and life's purpose is to equip leaders with transformational habits and systems of excellence.

Yinka believes that excellence is choosing to rise above average or mediocrity. She is releasing a book, Joab: King David's Top General. It's all about leadership, personal development and character building.

4:07 – Yinka 101

• Yinka moved to the U.S. from England in 2001 so she could go to graduate school. She had a dream job lined up with one of the largest investment banks in the world.
• In 2009, during the Great Recession, her role was eliminated. She was pregnant with her second child and jobless.
• Her doctor worried about her pregnancy and the amount of anxiety and stress she was under.
• Yinka discovered self-development and living a life of excellence. She learned the habits of excellence.

8:51 – Habits of excellence

• Finances were a huge part of her learning. She wanted to be a better steward of her resources.
• She worked on discipline. If she said she was going to do something, she did it.

12:37 – Discipline

• Time management was the toughest part for Yinka. She was not good at managing her time initially.

14:46 – Time to rest

• You have to be intentional about time to rest. Yinka takes retreats by herself so she can recalibrate and recharge.
• It's going to be hard for you to show up as the best version of yourself if you're hustling all the time.

19:33 – Joab: King David's Top General

• Joab is one of Yinka's favorite leaders of all time.
• Personal development is key, and you need to take care of yourself in private so you can be better in public.

26:10 – Goals for her book

• Leadership is weighty and comes with huge influence. As a leader, you need to do the work so you have the right traits.

29:54 – On the horizon

• She wants to help clients become better in their personal lives and businesses. She also plans to write another book.

31:38 – Get to know you

• Something you'd never guess about her? She's an avid baker.
• Signature dish? Banana bread
• Best vacation? Hawaii

FEATURED QUOTES

We're not chasing perfection. It's knowing who you are and then just determining that while you're on this planet … I'm going to do my best to show up as my best version daily. – Yinka

It was during that journey that I found my calling and got clarity in life. – Yinka

It's habits that make up who you are. – Yinka

It's going to be hard for you to show up as the best version of yourself if you're hustling all the time. – Yinka

CONNECT:

• Website
• LinkedIn
• Instagram
• Facebook
• Yinka's book "Joab, King David's Top General: Essential Lessons on Character"

ABOUT YINKA:

Adeyinka Adegbenle MBA, PMI-PMP, is a former financial services professional turned Author, Excellence Strategist and Excellence Coach, and mother of 3. Her goal and life's purpose are to equip leaders with transformational habits and systems of excellence. Adeyinka has spent years gaining mastery on habits and systems of excellence that continue to yield outstanding results for her. She now teaches these systems and habits to her clients and various organizations.

Yinka's recently released book "JOAB, KING DAVID'S TOP GENERAL" speaks about leadership, personal development, and character building.

THANK YOU TO OUR PARTNERS:

Ready to ditch the bleach forever but can't find a bleach alternative that actually works? You've got to meet this Extra Strength Oxygen Powder by MamaSuds. It launches July 15th and I've had the chance to try it out early and I love it so much! It really tackles the dirt and odor in our clothes. And as usual there are multiple uses for this new product. Not only is it a laundry booster and stain remover, but it's a great scouring agent on any non-porous surface. If you head to their website and sign up for their email list you'll get an email with an early bird special coupon when oxygen powder launches PLUS use discount code MOLLY and get an EXTRA 15% off! www.mamasuds.com

----

Speaking of stories behind brands that change the world, I'd like to introduce you to Deux Mains. In French, Deux Mains means two hands. Why 'two-hands'? Because everything they create is made by trained artisans who use their two hands to make their life better while crafting beautiful products.

Truly, this is a company that set out to change lives and make a positive impact in the world. It started when the founder, Julie, wanted to create dignified jobs in Haiti, a place she was growing to love, and that was exploding with creativity. She wanted to share this talent with the world.

Julie set up an educational program to train people with artisan skills and then went on to build a factory that operates on 100% solar energy. Deux Mains now employs more than 40 artisans that handcraft premium leather goods, jewelry and sandals. Their lives are forever changed by their craft.

What's also cool is their products incorporate an eco-friendly twist, working with responsibly sourced materials and repurposed inner-tube and tires in their designs.

When you buy from Deux Mains, you get to be part of a movement that is making a difference in the world, while adding an incredibly well-made piece to your closet that supports conscious living!

You can discover their products online at deuxmains.com and use code MOLLY for 15% off!

My guest today is Sharon McMahon, of Sharon Says So. She's a former high school government and law teacher who earned her reputation as America's government teacher amidst the historic 2020 proceedings for her viral efforts on Instagram to educate the general public on political misinformation.

Through a simple mission to share non-partisan information about democracy, Sharon has amassed hundreds of thousands of followers online, affectionately called the "Governerds," who look to her for truth and logic in a society plagued by bias and conspiracy.

4:55 – Sharon 101

• Her goal is to give people education so they can make their own educated opinions and not have a viewpoint shoved down their throat.
• She also has fun and doesn't take herself very seriously.

6:09 – Entrepreneurial background

• She did door-to-door sales as a child and sold Girl Scouts cookies.
• She also created her own bookmarks and sold them to neighbors when she was 10 years old and made $50 in one weekend.

9:15 – Career path

• Sharon went to college to be a teacher but thought about going into the medical profession. She eventually determined she was destined to be a teacher.

12:22 – Businesses and Instagram

• Her career path is bizarre and was not a straight-line trajectory. She got really into knitting and people started asking her for custom knitting projects, but it wasn't profitable.
• A customer asked her to dye some yarn, and she realized that dyeing yarn was more profitable than knitting.
• She grew her hand-dyeing business into one of the largest studios in the world and eventually sold the business to one of her employees.
• She started taking pictures of knitting patterns and projects, and people started asking her to take their pictures. She then became a photographer and eventually started Sharon Says So.

20:18 – Hot topics in a nonpartisan way

• That skill of not taking a position and providing fact-based information is something she developed in the classroom.
• She found that the more you argue with somebody about their opinions, the more deeply they begin to hold them.

23:10 – Opinions based on emotion

• Most of our opinions do not exist because somebody has rationally examined all the facts and then made a determination. We mostly make a determination and then find facts to support our opinion.

28:29 – Rapid growth and challenges

• Sharon Says So has had such rapid growth, and she constantly feel like she's not doing enough or helping enough people.
• The amount of hate she gets is miniscule compared to the kindness people show her.

38:03 – A common bond

• Sharon and I have something in common – we each have a parent, my mother and her father, who were Vietnam veterans and died from Agent Orange exposure.

45:20 – Generosity

• She has raised millions of dollars for eliminating medical debt and helping people in need.
• Her dream has been to be rich like Oprah or Ellen and give away money to help people without a second thought.

57:35 – Get to know you

• Favorite non-living president not for political reasons? James Madison because he was fascinating and John Adams for his intelligence and principle.
• Favorite whale? Humpbacks

FEATURED QUOTES

Most of our opinions do not exist because somebody has rationally examined all the facts and then made a determination. We mostly make a determination and then find facts to support our opinion. – Sharon

My goal is to give you education so that you can make your own educated opinions and not have a viewpoint shoved down your throat. – Sharon

That skill of not taking a position and providing fact-based information is some-thing I developed in the classroom. – Sharon

The more you argue with somebody about their opinions, the more deeply they begin to hold them. – Sharon

CONNECT WITH SHARON:

• https://www.sharonmcmahon.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/sharonsaysso/

THANK YOU TO OUR PARTNERS:

Ready to ditch the bleach forever but can't find a bleach alternative that actually works? You've got to meet this Extra Strength Oxygen Powder by MamaSuds. It launches July 15th and I've had the chance to try it out early and I love it so much! It really tackles the dirt and odor in our clothes. And as usual there are multiple uses for this new product. Not only is it a laundry booster and stain remover, but it's a great scouring agent on any non-porous surface. If you head to their website and sign up for their email list you'll get an email with an early bird special coupon when oxygen powder launches PLUS use discount code MOLLY and get an EXTRA 15% off! www.mamasuds.com

----

Speaking of stories behind brands that change the world, I'd like to introduce you to Deux Mains. In French, Deux Mains means two hands. Why 'two-hands'? Because everything they create is made by trained artisans who use their two hands to make their life better while crafting beautiful products.

Truly, this is a company that set out to change lives and make a positive impact in the world. It started when the founder, Julie, wanted to create dignified jobs in Haiti, a place she was growing to love, and that was exploding with creativity. She wanted to share this talent with the world.

Julie set up an educational program to train people with artisan skills and then went on to build a factory that operates on 100% solar energy. Deux Mains now employs more than 40 artisans that handcraft premium leather goods, jewelry and sandals. Their lives are forever changed by their craft.

What's also cool is their products incorporate an eco-friendly twist, working with responsibly sourced materials and repurposed inner-tube and tires in their designs.

When you buy from Deux Mains, you get to be part of a movement that is making a difference in the world, while adding an incredibly well-made piece to your closet that supports conscious living!

You can discover their products online at deuxmains.com and use code MOLLY for 15% off!

My guest today is Ashley Opliger, president and executive director of Bridget's Cradles, a nonprofit ministry dedicated to providing comfort, hope and healing to families grieving the loss of a baby in Heaven. They have donated cradles to more than 1,100 hospitals in all 50 states.

Ashley lost her daughter, Bridget, during pregnancy. Ashley's mother knit a blanket for Bridget and made it into a knitted cradle. That was the start of Bridget's Cradles.

This discussion is very personal to me, because I have had the horrific experience of losing babies, my sons Elijah and Malachi, during pregnancy.

5:21 – Ashley 101

• Ashley lives in Wichita, Kan., with her husband, Matt. They have three children, their daughter Bridget in Heaven, and their two sons who are 4 years old and 6 months old.
• Her life right now is a mix of motherhood and ministry.
• She had a subchorionic hemorrhage while pregnant with her daughter Bridget and was on bed rest for 11 weeks before losing her daughter.

10:50 – Deep grief

• Ashley was dealing with deep grief when she came home from the hospital. She fell to her knees in Bridget's nursery and asked God why she had to lose her daughter.
• She surrendered her grief to God, and she has seen God redeem her grief so she can help others.

17:54 – Cradles

• Nurses saw the knitted cradle Ashley had for her daughter. They said it would be nice to have those for other babies who pass.
• Ashley created Bridget's Cradles. Nurses say the cradles are unique and special gifts to give grieving families.

25:16 – Nurses

• Once the cradles are shipped to hospitals, nurses are responsible for giving them to families.
• Nurses are the hands and feet of the cradles.

32:25 – Volunteers can knit cradles

• You can volunteer to knit cradles. They will send patterns, dimensions, yarn type and colors.
• The cradles are shipped to Bridget's Cradles, and they add lace, ribbon and charms. Every cradle has a cross on the foot.

40:09 – Cradles are for everyone

• A few hospitals have said no to the cradles because of the religious connection and the crosses on the foot of the cradles.
• Families can choose to remove crosses from the cradles. The cradles are for everyone.

46:49 – Get to know you

• Guilty pleasure? Dark chocolate
• What she's reading? Mama Bear Apologetics

FEATURED QUOTES

There's nothing wrong or weak about going to counseling. I think it's a sign of strength to be able to go in and have someone help process that grief. – Ashley

"My life right now is a mix of motherhood and ministry." – Ashley

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES OR LINKS THAT NEED TO BE INCLUDED IN POST

https://www.bridgetscradles.com/

About Ashley Opliger:

Ashley Opliger is the President and Executive Director of Bridget's Cradles 501c3 nonprofit organization based in Wichita, Kansas. Bridget's Cradles donates cradles to over 1,090 hospitals in all 50 states and comforts over 26,000 bereaved families a year. She is the host of the Cradled in Hope podcast and the leader of Hope Gatherings support groups.

Ashley is married to Matt and they have three children: Bridget (in Heaven), and two sons. She is a fully-devoted follower of Christ who desires to share the hope of Jesus and Heaven with families grieving the loss of a baby.

THANK YOU TO OUR PARTNERS:

Ready to ditch the bleach forever but can't find a bleach alternative that actually works? You've got to meet this Extra Strength Oxygen Powder by MamaSuds. It launches July 15th and I've had the chance to try it out early and I love it so much! It really tackles the dirt and odor in our clothes. And as usual there are multiple uses for this new product. Not only is it a laundry booster and stain remover, but it's a great scouring agent on any non-porous surface. If you head to their website and sign up for their email list you'll get an email with an early bird special coupon when oxygen powder launches PLUS use discount code MOLLY and get an EXTRA 15% off! www.mamasuds.com

----

Speaking of stories behind brands that change the world, I'd like to introduce you to Deux Mains. In French, Deux Mains means two hands. Why 'two-hands'? Because everything they create is made by trained artisans who use their two hands to make their life better while crafting beautiful products.

Truly, this is a company that set out to change lives and make a positive impact in the world. It started when the founder, Julie, wanted to create dignified jobs in Haiti, a place she was growing to love, and that was exploding with creativity. She wanted to share this talent with the world.

Julie set up an educational program to train people with artisan skills and then went on to build a factory that operates on 100% solar energy. Deux Mains now employs more than 40 artisans that handcraft premium leather goods, jewelry and sandals. Their lives are forever changed by their craft.

What's also cool is their products incorporate an eco-friendly twist, working with responsibly sourced materials and repurposed inner-tube and tires in their designs.

When you buy from Deux Mains, you get to be part of a movement that is making a difference in the world, while adding an incredibly well-made piece to your closet that supports conscious living!

You can discover their products online at deuxmains.com and use code MOLLY for 15% off!

My guest today is Haley Jaeger, founder and designer of Atonement Design. Haley has been a designer since she was a child and is a dear friend of mine.

Whether it was clothing, jewelry, or decor, Haley was engulfed in creativity. As her skills evolved, she gravitated towards pairing an artistic eye with partnerships with talented artisans across the globe, and the concept for Atonement Design was born.

3:43 – Haley 101

• She's a northern California girl and lives in wine country. She and her husband are very passionate about sustainability.
• She has an online boutique.

6:01 – Her journey to sustainability

• Haley says she was naïve in high school and thought it would be easy to have a boutique that focused on fair trade and artisan made items.
• She fell in love with the concept of fair trade and enjoyed partnering with artisans.
• Designing clothes and jewelry has always been her creative outlet and helped her after her dad died.

11:04 – Atonement Design

• Haley was trying to figure out what direction she wanted to go and thought about being a full-time missionary or working in ministry.
• She felt like the Lord was encouraging her to be a light to people in the design industry.
• While reading the Bible, the word "atonement" kept coming up, so she decided to name her company after that.

17:01 – Growing her company

• She started making jewelry and selling it to friends, but she wanted to grow even more.
• Education, delegating and therapy have been crucial to her success.

25:20 – Pivoting in a pandemic

• Despite the pandemic, Haley has been able to grow her business online, and she learned how to market to her customers.
• She started selling her jewelry in a Facebook group and hired her first assistant to help pack orders.

30:49 – Get to know you

• Favorite song to sing? Al Green's "Let's Stay Together"
• Favorite meal? Gyro tacos

FEATURED QUOTES

I think that's how my business has grown – is just going to counseling and figuring out my stuff and figuring out all the barriers. – Haley

How I've grown has just been little steps. – Haley

I was doing a lot of in-person events and not as many online sales. When COVID shut things down … I had to do all online and discovered that I do have customers there.

CONNECT:

https://atonementdesign.com/

ABOUT HALEY:

Haley Jaeger is the founder and designer of the socially conscious lifestyle brand, Atonement Design. She has been a designer since she was a child- whether it was clothing, jewelry, or decor, she was engulfed in creativity. As her skills evolved, she gravitated towards pairing an artistic eye with partnerships with talented artisans across the globe, and the concept for Atonement Design was born.

After receiving her B.S. in Business Management with a focus on non-profit organizations and entrepreneurship, she worked in sales, marketing, and accounting before taking the leap into full-time entrepreneurship and focusing fully on Atonement Design in 2020

Haley loves bulldogs, french fries, and crafts. When she's not working, you can usually find her wine tasting around her Sonoma County home, playing cribbage with her husband at their favorite brewery, or at game night with her girlfriends.

THANK YOU TO OUR PARTNERS:

Ready to ditch the bleach forever but can't find a bleach alternative that actually works? You've got to meet this Extra Strength Oxygen Powder by MamaSuds. It launches July 15th and I've had the chance to try it out early and I love it so much! It really tackles the dirt and odor in our clothes. And as usual there are multiple uses for this new product. Not only is it a laundry booster and stain remover, but it's a great scouring agent on any non-porous surface. If you head to their website and sign up for their email list you'll get an email with an early bird special coupon when oxygen powder launches PLUS use discount code MOLLY and get an EXTRA 15% off! www.mamasuds.com

----

Speaking of stories behind brands that change the world, I'd like to introduce you to Deux Mains. In French, Deux Mains means two hands. Why 'two-hands'? Because everything they create is made by trained artisans who use their two hands to make their life better while crafting beautiful products.

Truly, this is a company that set out to change lives and make a positive impact in the world. It started when the founder, Julie, wanted to create dignified jobs in Haiti, a place she was growing to love, and that was exploding with creativity. She wanted to share this talent with the world.

Julie set up an educational program to train people with artisan skills and then went on to build a factory that operates on 100% solar energy. Deux Mains now employs more than 40 artisans that handcraft premium leather goods, jewelry and sandals. Their lives are forever changed by their craft.

What's also cool is their products incorporate an eco-friendly twist, working with responsibly sourced materials and repurposed inner-tube and tires in their designs.

When you buy from Deux Mains, you get to be part of a movement that is making a difference in the world, while adding an incredibly well-made piece to your closet that supports conscious living!

You can discover their products online at deuxmains.com and use code MOLLY for 15% off!