Kimberly Bass on the Connectors Edge Podcast hosted by Connectors Business Network.

Marian and Ricki introduced Kimberly Bass, an email marketing expert and speaker coach from Dallas, who shared her experience helping business owners clarify their message and increase revenue. Kimberly discussed her work with Ricky, noting improvements in email engagement, and highlighted her programs designed to make technology and marketing accessible for all. Refining Target Audience StrategiesThe discussion focused on how Ricky helped her client, also named Ricky, refine her target audience from busy women entrepreneurs to single or divorced people over 50 who struggle with cooking for themselves. They transformed the client's email marketing to be more professional and aligned with her overall business goals, which include conducting cooking classes and promoting healthy eating. The conversation highlighted how Ricky's work helped the client become more passionate and effective in communicating with her new target audience.Client Confidence and Revenue StrategiesThe group discussed strategies for helping clients feel confident as authorities in their fields without appearing salesy, with Deliver explaining that clients are comfortable presenting valuable information they know their market needs. They explored how Ricki, who works in nutrition, can effectively communicate the importance of food's health benefits without feeling sales-oriented. The conversation concluded with Deliver sharing her focus on helping clients build revenue infrastructure in 2026, including revamping an assessment package for Ricki that combined existing services into a more valuable offering without requiring additional work.Entrepreneur Pricing and Self-WorthThe group discussed pricing strategies and the tendency for entrepreneurs, particularly women, to undervalue their services. Deliver shared that 80-85% of entrepreneurs she works with, especially women, undercharge for their services due to fear and self-doubt. The conversation highlighted the importance of recognizing one's worth and the value provided to clients. Deliver also mentioned her focus on serving speakers, coaches, and authors, and announced an upcoming 3-day event starting Sunday called the "Foolproof Follow-up Flow."ContactMarian LaSalle ~ ConnectorsBusinessNetwork.comRicki McKenna ~ RickisKitchen.netGuest Kimberly Bass ~ deliverhermarketing.com [email protected]

On this episode of the Connectors Edge Podcast, hosts Marian LaSalle and Ricki McKenna welcome licensed therapist, author, and speaker Dr. Falguni Shah for a powerful conversation that every leader, coach, and ally needs to hear.Dr. Shah introduces the concept of Truthlighting, a transformative approach that replaces gaslighting with validation, clarity, and trust. Drawing from her book From Gaslighting to Truthlighting, she explains how affirming people’s lived experiences creates healthier relationships, stronger workplaces, and more empowered communities.We explore how truthlighting applies to business, coaching, leadership, and everyday life, and why it is especially impactful for minority women navigating corporate and professional spaces. Dr. Shah also shares her personal journey, the inspiration behind her book, and her passion for empowering girls, including her vision for future mother-daughter retreats.Plus, Marian and Ricki introduce listeners to the Connectors Business Network, sharing how intentional connection, resources, and community support can help entrepreneurs grow without burnout. https://connectorsbusinessnetwork.comIf you care about communication, trust, leadership, and real connection, this episode is a must-listen.ContactMarian LaSalle ~ ConnectorsBusinessNetwork.comRicki McKenna ~ RickisKitchen.netFalguni Shah, PhD, NCC, LCPC, CHCEF Author | Speaker | AdvocateAdjunct Faculty/Dissertation Chair - Adler UniversityWebsite: https://www.fortruthlighting.comLinkedIn:   / falguni-shah-phd-lcpc-ncc-chcef-13271816  Instagram:   / falgunifortruthlighting  

Marian opened the episode by welcoming listeners to the Connector’s Edge Podcast and thanking the sponsors who support the show. Ricki then introduced Patsy, a returning guest and expert in feng shui, known for helping people harmonize their spaces and, in turn, their lives.Health, Healing, and ManifestationPatsy shared deeply personal experiences around health and transformation, including her decision to have her gallbladder removed. She described how this choice led to a noticeable improvement in her overall well-being and reinforced her belief in addressing hidden or ignored aspects of health and life.She explained how feng shui and vision boards work together as powerful tools for clarity and manifestation. Patsy emphasized that intention alone is not enough; love, clarity, and aligned action are essential to bringing goals into reality. She also walked through her personal vision board process and how it continues to evolve with her life.The Evolution of Vision Boards: 2020 to 2025 Patsy is moving away from creative consulting and toward more individual and group wellness work, including feng shui and energetic space alignment. She encouraged listeners to take action on creative ideas when clarity appears, rather than waiting.Patsy also highlighted the significance of 2026, explaining that it marks the completion of a nine-year cycle and represents new beginnings, leadership, and the importance of unity and strong foundations.Intuition and Life TransitionsThe conversation naturally flowed into intuition and trusting one’s inner compass. Ricki shared recent experiences where listening to her instincts guided decisions in home design and teaching. She also announced her new role as an adjunct professor at Colorado Mountain College, where she will teach vegetarian and vegan cooking classes from January through May.Marian opened up about her own challenges with home design. While confident in graphic and digital design, she shared that she struggles to intuitively arrange and visualize her physical living space.Creating Comfort and Harmony at HomeIn response, Patsy offered gentle guidance, suggesting mindfulness practices and intentional communication with one’s environment as ways to build connection and clarity. Ricki shared a heartfelt example of creating a comfortable space for her pet, emphasizing that harmony should consider the needs of everyone who lives in a space.The conversation reinforced the idea that homes are living environments that respond to care, awareness, and intention.Preparing for 2026: Balance, Nature, and ResponsibilityPatsy returned to the theme of preparing for 2026 by grounding through nature, self-care, and conscious living. She spoke about taking responsibility for one’s happiness and using tools like vision boards and intentional placement within the home to create balance.She announced two upcoming events:An in-person vision board workshop in Katy, Texas on January 17Both events will include a promotional discount and focus on aligning with the energy of the coming year.Energy, Decluttering, and New BeginningsThe group discussed decluttering and donating items as a way to create space for new energy. Patsy shared that her 2026-focused work will include harmonizing with the year’s energetic elements, such as fire and wood, and creating personalized energetic maps for homes and workspaces. Here are a couple of links for the upcoming feng shui vision board workshops. One is in-person, in Katy and the other is for the annual virtual event. I’ve been hosting these since 2019.Contact Marian LaSalle https://connectorsbusinessnetwork.comRicki McKenna ~ https://rickiskitchen.netPatsy Balacchi ~ Brand & Feng Shui Consultant Zenotica®786-262-6362 ~ zenotica.comdynamic visual brands & harmonious spaces

Today on the Connectors Edge Podcast we welcomed back Scott Holmes. See below for some resources for any kind of overwhelm.

Contact Scott Holmes

Contact Ricki McKennahttps://rickiskitchen.net

Contact Marian LaSalle https://referralBusinessBuilders.com

Writer's Conference Experience in Tulum

Scott shared his experience attending a writer's conference in Tulum, Mexico, where he and his wife celebrated their first wedding anniversary. He highlighted the impact of the conference in fostering close friendships among participants and the powerful speaking style of Oliver Reed, who encourages authenticity in writing.

Understanding and Preventing Burnout

Scott shared his personal experience with burnout, describing it as a state of overwhelming stress and hopelessness, particularly when facing multiple challenging situations simultaneously, such as managing family responsibilities and work while dealing with a spouse's cancer treatment and a child's medical instability. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a healthy outlook and perspective while having the necessary tools to prevent relapse into burnout.

Finding Respite in Overwhelming Times

Scott shared his personal experience of feeling overwhelmed and isolated, emphasizing the importance of finding safe spaces for respite. Caregiving vs Financial Overwhelm

Scott shared his personal experience of making difficult life-and-death decisions for his wife and daughter, emphasizing that the focus was always on improving quality of life rather than just prolonging existence.

Challenges of Remote Work

Scott and Ricki discussed the challenges of working from home, including the difficulty of defining work boundaries and the risk of working excessive hours, which can lead to a lack of personal life. Overwhelm Management Strategies Discussion

The group discussed personal experiences with overwhelm, with Scott sharing a story about walking 25 miles to get home during a snowstorm.

Referral Business Builders Program Overview

Marian discussed the Referral Business Builders program, including their book club currently reading "The Big Leap" and focusing on Einstein time versus Newtonian time. She promoted upcoming events including a Connectors Classroom session on new AI technology and Marketing Made Easy meetings, all available through their website.

Trusted Articles & Guides

National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) “I’m So Stressed Out! Fact Sheet”A very straightforward fact sheet that explains what stress and anxiety are, how to tell if what you’re feeling is typical stress or something more serious, and offers practical coping ideas (journaling, breathing/mindfulness, healthy habits, reaching out for help).

National Institute of Mental Health Mental Health First Aid “5 Ways to Cope When You’re Feeling Overwhelmed”A short, practical post offering simple self-care strategies if you feel overwhelmed — from deep breathing and walking away (when possible), to creating a “no” list, setting boundaries, self-kindness, leaning on others, and journaling.

Great for everyday emotional overwhelm or burnout. Mental Health First Aid

Rick Hanson, PhD “Stress and Overwhelm” (on his personal growth website)Offers bite-sized mindfulness practices and simple daily-level tools to build resilience: breathwork, grounding, self-compassion, gratitude, and inner calm. Good as ongoing support when overwhelm isn’t a crisis but a recurring struggle. rickhanson.com

How to Beat Stress and Overwhelm: 8 Research‑Backed Tips (YouTube video) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yLl5ueslt6E

Gives research-based guidance to transform overwhelm into calm, useful for chronic stress or heavy workloads.

Ricki and Marian discussed the importance of incorporating fun into business and personal life, emphasizing that enjoying what one does is crucial for success. Marian introduced the "Connectors Hour Book Club" and shared insights from the book "The Big Leap" by Gay Hendricks, focusing on the concept of "Einstein Time" and the power of affirmations or mantras. Ricki admired Marian's custom mantra, which she uses to maintain a positive mindset, and both agreed on the strength found in a balance of exhilaration and serenity.Positive Actions and Business GrowthRicki and Marian discussed the importance of positive actions and their potential long-term impact, using an example of Ricki's unique whipped cream recipe made with brown sugar and almond extract. They also talked about the benefits of joining Referral Business Builders, which offers access to replays of past meetings, including Elise's video marketing sessions for YouTube. Marian encouraged Ricki to participate in upcoming events like Marketing Made Easy, which focuses on preparing for a successful business future.Gratitude and Networking InsightsMarian and Ricki discussed the importance of vision boards, business networking, and the value of expressing gratitude. They emphasized the significance of authentic connections, receiving compliments, and the ripple effect of gratitude. Ricki shared a personal story about teaching her daughter to accept compliments, highlighting the importance of being open to receiving. They also mentioned an upcoming event where Ricki will share recipes and participate in a yoga and mindset group as an expert.Building Trust Through Positive EnergyRicki and Marian discussed the importance of maintaining calm and positive energy in business interactions, emphasizing that people are more likely to trust and do business with those they know, like, and trust. Ricki shared her experience of being pressured during a sales call, which left a negative impression, and highlighted the value of building relationships before making sales pitches. They agreed that making others feel comfortable and receptive through humor or a friendly approach can enhance the likelihood of successful interactions.Pumpkin Spice Recipe DiscussionRicki shared a recipe for homemade pumpkin spice seasoning, which combines cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice. Marian reminded listeners that the podcast is available on YouTube and various podcast platforms, and encouraged potential guests to contact them with products, services, or ideas to share. Marian LaSalle ~ https://referralbusinessbuilders.comRicki McKenna ~ https://rickiskitchen.net

Podcast Launch and Guest InterviewMarian and Ricki introduced their podcast, Connector's Edge, and welcomed Ilene Dillon as their guest. Ilene, a clinical social worker with 54 years of experience, discussed her journey of living in a van and traveling across the United States and Canada for 9-10 years. She shared her passion for helping people through her work and writing books on emotions. The podcast also highlighted Referral Business Builders, an online community offering training sessions and networking opportunities for entrepreneurs and business owners.Emotional Management in BusinessIlene shared insights on managing emotions in business, emphasizing the importance of focusing on desired outcomes rather than problems. Embracing Growth and ResilienceRicki and Ilene expressed their admiration for Marian, highlighting her qualities of love, compassion, and her ability to connect with people. Marian shared her experience of losing important recordings due to a computer failure during a COVID-era course, which led her to adopt a more cautious approach to data backup. Ilene encouraged Marian to let go of the past and focus on moving forward, while Marian appreciated the positive experiences gained from the course despite the technical setback.Connecting and Giving BackMarian and Ricki discussed the importance of connecting with people and giving back, with Marian expressing her love for people and how giving to others fulfills her needs. Ilene offered a free 15-minute consultation on emotions to the first five people who contact her, sharing her experience with the effectiveness of short consultations. Ricki appreciated the generosity and love shown by both Marian and Ilene, highlighting the value of connecting with people and the reach of their podcast across various platforms.Self-Love and Positive ExperiencesIlene shared her personal experience of focusing on self-love during her RV travels across the United States and Canada, noting that her positive experiences were a reflection of her inner love and acceptance. Ricki and Marian discussed the importance of self-love and its impact on attracting positive experiences, with Ilene agreeing to return for a future episode to further explore this topic. The hosts encouraged viewers to engage with the content by leaving comments and suggested revisiting past episodes for additional insights.Ilene's Name Change and EmpathyIlene shared her personal story about how her name was changed from "Joe Eileen" to "Ilene Josephine" by her parents, explaining it was to avoid reminders of her father's previous marriage. The group discussed creating promotional materials for Ilene's FOR-Life.com email offer, with Marian agreeing to design a graphic. Ricki and Ilene had a philosophical discussion about how everyone comes from some form of dysfunctional family background, which Ilene viewed as an opportunity to develop empathy and learn important life lessons.Empowering Seniors in a Changing WorldIlene shared her experience with the Summiteeers, a group founded by Dr. Don Cote for people 55 and older to remain relevant and active. Ricki discussed an AARP article highlighting the growing population of single people over 60, emphasizing their autonomy and control over life. They reflected on the changing world and the wisdom accumulated over time, with Ilene recalling her childhood experiences on a farm. Marian announced a special offer from Ilene Dillon for free 15-minute emotional mastery sessions.Connect with all three of usIlene Dillion ~ https://emotionalmasteryforlife.com/Marian LaSalle ~ https://referralbusinessbuilders.comRicki McKenna ~ https://rickiskitchen.net

The meeting began with introductions between Marian, Ricki, and Patsy Balacchi.

Ricki and Patsy discussed their previous meeting in Boone, North Carolina, and Patsy's family connections.

The podcast introduction highlighted the sponsors, including Referral Business Builders.

Marian and Ricki introduced their guest, Patsy Balaki, who teaches feng shui and is known for her creativity and compassion.

Patsy discussed her experience living in Houston for 11 years and her love for gardening, often growing fresh herbs and edibles for vegan meals. The conversation touched on the challenges of the Texas summer weather and Patsy's connection to the Houston area, highlighting her sense of community and the diverse experiences of those living in the region. Journey to Healing and Balance

Patsy shared her personal journey of moving to Houston and her experience overcoming hepatitis C through a new drug called Harvoni in 2016, which allowed her to finally eradicate the virus after 26 years. She discussed how this physical healing was accompanied by emotional and spiritual work, including exploring practices like Feng Shui and Ayurveda, as well as addressing personal issues related to anger and resentment.

Patsy emphasized the importance of internal healing alongside external changes to create a balanced and healthy life.

Feng Shui and Holistic Healing

Patsy shared her journey into feng shui, explaining how it began as a way to achieve balance and harmony in her life, particularly in dealing with obsessive-compulsive behaviors. She emphasized the importance of holistic healing, combining emotional, spiritual, and physical aspects to address chronic diseases.

Ricki discussed a video she watched about the vagus nerve and the connection between emotional trauma, stress levels, and physical health, noting the prominence of women doctors in this field.

Patsy described feng shui as a multi-layered system that can be used on various levels, from basic design principles to deeper emotional and spiritual healing, depending on one's commitment.Feng Shui Consulting and Networking

Patsy discussed her work as a feng shui consultant, offering one-on-one consultations, group workshops, and retreats, including a popular Feng Shui Vision Board Workshop for the Fire Horse year. She emphasized the importance of self-reflection and personal growth, encouraging people to embrace their worthiness and practice asking for what they want with sincerity.

Marian and Ricki expressed interest in Patsy's work and suggested introducing her to a high-end interior designer friend, Beverly Mattern, who incorporates feng shui principles in her designs. They also discussed a local business networking group, Referral Business Builders, which Patsy was interested in joining.

Contact info

Marian LaSalle

Chief Connector, Publisher and By Your Side [email protected]

📞 713-826-4942

Houston News and Events 'Guess What Houston'https://guesswhathouston.com

Business and Personal Growth: Referral Business Buildershttps://referralbusinessbuilders.com

Ricki L. McKennaCN Certified Nutritionist, Health Coach, Chef, Speaker, Author Cell: 970-618-7607 Patreon.com/RickisKitchen

RickisKitchen.net

Patsy Balacchihttps://zenotica.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/patsybalacchi/

Empowerment Through Vulnerable StoryTelling

The group discussed the RBB Book Club's current reading of "The Big Leap" by Gay Hendricks, which meets every Monday at 7:30 AM Central Time. Gayle shared her experience raising teenagers during the pandemic, noting the challenges of their transition to middle school. The conversation concluded with a brief discussion about the upcoming podcast format, where Marian will introduce the show and Ricky will introduce the guest, with the interview being free-flowing and unscripted.Story Styling for EntrepreneursGayle explained her role as a story stylist who works with spirit-led entrepreneurs to align their energy, story, and visibility for genuine connection and attracting clients. Marian prepared to ask Gayle why she started her business, while Ricki was ready to participate in the discussion. Marian offered Ricki an opportunity to join her training sessions on digital marketing and story styling, which occur on the second Tuesday and Thursday of each month.Entrepreneurship and Connection StrategiesGayle discussed her work as a connector and relationship builder for entrepreneurs and business owners, emphasizing the importance of aligning energy and creating genuine connections. She shared that her business journey began in college, inspired by her experience as a supervisor at the Dining Commons, where she appreciated the flexibility and freedom of choosing shifts and team roles. Gayle also highlighted the role of communication in her work, noting that visibility and marketing can sometimes activate fears and insecurities, but addressing these inner challenges is crucial for full self-expression.Empowerment Through Vulnerable StorytellingGayle shared her personal journey of overcoming childhood trauma and using her story to empower others, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability and emotional wellness in business. She explained how her clients, including coaches, small business owners, and conscious leaders, often need support in sharing their authentic stories to grow their businesses and connect with audiences. The discussion highlighted the transformative power of storytelling and the need for safe spaces to explore and share personal experiences.Contact infoMarian LaSalleChief Connector, Publisher and By Your Side [email protected]📞 713-826-4942 Houston News and Events 'Guess What Houston'https://guesswhathouston.comBusiness and Personal Growth: Referral Business Buildershttps://referralbusinessbuilders.com Ricki L. McKennaCN Certified Nutritionist, Health Coach, Chef, Speaker, Author Cell: 970-618-7607 Patreon.com/RickisKitchen RickisKitchen.netGayle Nowakhttps://gaylenowak.com/978-308-9868 • [email protected]

Fall Discussions and Yoga PlansMarian, Ricki, and Suzanne discussed the start of fall and the changing weather, with Ricki mentioning her experience living in Texas and Colorado. They briefly talked about pumpkins and decorations for the season. Marian introduced Suzanne as a special guest and expressed excitement about learning more about her.

Yoga Journey to Pain ManagementSusanne shared her journey from chronic hip pain to becoming a yoga teacher, emphasizing how yoga and weight training transformed her life. She explained her current teaching approach, which includes yoga, seated Pilates, and weightlifting classes designed for women over 40, focusing on stretching, core strength, and proper posture. Susanne also mentioned plans to launch a new class in January aimed at realigning the musculoskeletal system and addressing different types of pain, including musculoskeletal and organic pain conditions like lupus and fibromyalgia.Yoga and Wellness Community ClassesSusanne discussed her upcoming yoga class that will focus on a pose beneficial for circulation and nervous system relaxation, starting January 1st. She explained her approach to teaching, which includes recorded classes, interactive sessions, and a community-focused environment where she provides educational content on health topics like osteoporosis, intermittent fasting, and hormone disruptors. The Sunday class, which Susanne described as her favorite, includes reflective discussions and a two-week health and wellness challenge where participants commit to personal goals and share their progress in the Facebook community.Yoga and Scoliosis ManagementRicki shared her personal experience with scoliosis, which was discovered by a new chiropractor, and discussed how understanding her condition helped reduce back pain. Susanne explained that yoga can help with pain management for conditions like bursitis and scoliosis, but emphasized the importance of consulting a doctor for specific exercises. Ricki expressed her continued appreciation for yoga's benefits, despite some loss of flexibility in her hips and knees over time.Chair Yoga and Business NetworkingThe group discussed yoga, with Susanne presenting slides demonstrating various chair yoga poses and explaining how it can benefit both physical health and mental well-being, particularly for stress relief. Ricki shared her personal experience with yoga, emphasizing its ability to help her focus and reduce anxiety. The conversation then shifted to Referral Business Builder, where Susanne described her monthly Marketing Made Easy sessions and the community's focus on networking and business growth. Ricki expressed interest in joining Susanne's yoga class and requested the link be sent to her email rather than Facebook.Contact infoMarian LaSalleChief Connector, Publisher and By Your Side [email protected]📞 713-826-4942 Houston News and Events 'Guess What Houston'https://guesswhathouston.comBusiness and Personal Growth: Referral Business Buildershttps://referralbusinessbuilders.com Ricki L. McKennaCN Certified Nutritionist, Health Coach, Chef, Speaker, Author Cell: 970-618-7607 Patreon.com/RickisKitchen RickisKitchen.netSusanne SharardSoul Fuel and Movement Circle  / ymcircle  

Who is Supporting you? on Connectors Edge Podcast with Marian LaSalle and Ricki McKenna.

This episode is about the importance of having a reliable support network, especially for solopreneurs. Focusing on building a community of supportive individuals who can help each other in business. Ricki emphasized that while some aspects of running a business can be done alone, having a strong support system is crucial for overall success.Building Loyalty Through Genuine ConnectionsRicki shared personal anecdotes about maintaining long-term relationships and building loyalty, particularly highlighting her connection with Rita in Carbondale who helped her reconnect with the community and provided valuable business connections despite being apart for 11 years. She emphasized how loyalty in professional relationships can naturally develop through genuine connections, contrasting with family and friends who may not understand or be interested in business matters.Emotional Support Items and ConnectionsMarian shared her experience of losing and replacing her emotional support water bottle, which she had accidentally left at an Airbnb. Ricki mentioned her own personal item, a pink salt lamp, which was given to her by a friend she helped open a shop with in Colorado. They discussed the importance of personal items that provide emotional support and agreed that Ricki should reach out to her friend to reconnect and potentially invite her onto their podcast.Book Club Discussion: The Big LeapMarian discussed the ongoing book club meeting in Referral Business Builders, where they are currently reading "The Big Leap" by Gay Hendricks. She emphasized the book's deep and impactful content, recommending that others join the club by obtaining the audiobook version. The club meets every Monday at 7:30 AM Central Time, and Marian highlighted the importance of community and personal growth through sharing experiences and emotions related to the book. Ricki expressed interest and mentioned knowing Gay Hendricks through Mary Morrissey's teachings, agreeing to join the book club.Community Training Programs OverviewMarian discussed the various training programs available in their community, including Elise Nelson's video marketing classes and her own "Connectors Classroom Live" which allows members to choose their next topic. She highlighted that Canva is currently popular due to its extensive features and integrations with AI tools. Ricki expressed interest in learning more about software and mentioned her previous experience with Canva. Marian also mentioned Suzanne Sherard's upcoming "Marketing Made Easy" class starting November 6th, and suggested Ricki could potentially teach cooking classes to help business owners maintain their health.Healthy Cooking Show PlanningRicki discussed her experience adjusting to a new kitchen and appliances, including challenges with natural light and storage. She expressed interest in creating a cooking show focused on healthy eating and proper food storage. Marian suggested a segment on storing water and food in environmentally friendly containers.Contact infoMarian LaSalleChief Connector, Publisher and By Your Side [email protected]📞 713-826-4942 Houston News and Events 'Guess What Houston'https://guesswhathouston.comBusiness and Personal Growth: Referral Business Buildershttps://referralbusinessbuilders.com Ricki L. McKennaCN Certified Nutritionist, Health Coach, Chef, Speaker, Author Cell: 970-618-7607 Patreon.com/RickisKitchen RickisKitchen.net