Connectors Edge

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

Shonah Jefferson is our guest today on the Connectors Edge Podcast. Shonah has a thriving Houston based Home Chef Service.The group discussed Shonah's home chef service, where clients typically sign up over the phone or online, with services costing $189-$249 plus groceries for in-home cooking. Shonah shared a story about meeting a client in person at a senior event who had received the service through a gift certificate for her husband's prostate cancer treatment. Chefs for Seniors Team ExpansionMarian introduced Ricki McKenna, highlighting Ricki's previous work experience with Shonah in the Chefs for Seniors program. Shonah explained how she met Ricki at an event and later connected with her through a podcast, leading to Ricki joining her team. They discussed Shonah's successful Chefs for Seniors business, which she has owned for seven years and has expanded in Houston. Ricki shared her experience working with Shonah's clients, emphasizing the personal connections formed and the importance of accommodating clients' dietary needs.Client-Centric Food Service ApproachShonah emphasized the importance of treating clients like family, focusing on relationship-based, high-touch service rather than viewing it as a transactional food business. She and Ricki discussed the monthly Zoom meetings with chefs to address client challenges and share experiences, highlighting a collaborative approach. Marian inquired about the menu, and Shonah explained that while there is a national menu with over 175 items, chefs can adapt it to meet client preferences, ensuring variety and flexibility.Senior Meal Service Franchise UpdateShonah discussed her meal preparation service for seniors, explaining how she caters to both standard and custom clients with various dietary needs. She described her service area in Houston and surrounding regions, noting that she is the only franchisee currently operating in the Houston area. Shonah also shared that she has transitioned out of day-to-day cooking to focus on cooking demonstrations and community outreach, while still maintaining a personal touch with her clients and staff.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.netShonah Jefferson Executive Chef & CEO, Chefs for Seniors - North and Southeast Houston Metro Main Company Number: 346.771.7655Direct Number (Mobile): 832.956.1848Email: [email protected]: https:/chefsforseniors.com/north-southeast-houston

Building Connections: Online and Offline

Marian, Ricki, and Carol discussed the importance of making connections, both online and offline, emphasizing the value of networking and building relationships. Ricki highlighted the significance of online meetings and the lasting friendships formed through platforms like the Wellness Universe.

Carol shared her experience of living in California and mentioned the unusual summer heat and humidity. The conversation also touched on the diverse climates and locations of the participants, with Ricki noting the pleasant weather in Colorado and Marian expressing envy of California's weather. Language Awareness in Card Project

Carol, a spiritual counselor and teacher, discussed her upcoming card deck project, "Words Create Your World," which aims to help people become aware of and change self-limiting language patterns. She explained that each card will feature an image on one side and a lesson on the other, focusing on how people use language to define themselves and their experiences.

Marian and Ricki expressed interest in the project, with Marian offering to be the first customer and Ricki the second. The conversation concluded with a brief discussion about the evolution of the term "networking" to "connections" in their business group, highlighting the importance of language awareness.Balancing Personal and Professional Identities

Marian and Ricki discussed the concept of personal and professional worlds, emphasizing the importance of evaluating how others perceive one's world.

Carol shared an example of a client who learned to stop defining herself by professional titles and began to recognize the value of individuals beyond their credentials. They also touched on societal programming and the influence of subliminal messages in media, suggesting a need for awareness and critical thinking in interpreting these influences.

Encouraging Messages in BusinessCarol discussed her approach to sharing knowledge and the importance of meeting people where they are, drawing parallels to Starbucks' early use of subliminal messages on napkins. Ricki and Carol explored the positive impact of encouraging messages, with Ricki highlighting Jimmy John's use of uplifting sayings and Carol mentioning her work with ChatGPT for marketing assistance.

Marian expressed her positive experience with ChatGPT, emphasizing its potential for creativity and the importance of using it responsibly.Global Connector Community Engagement

The meeting focused on the global reach of the Connector's Edge, with participants discussing their connection with like-minded individuals across various regions, including Canada, Portugal, Australia, and Mexico.Ricki expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage with guests and emphasized the importance of sharing insights and experiences.

Carol agreed to return for another session once her cards are ready for distribution, and Ricki and Marian encouraged viewers to engage with the show by sharing their takeaways and joining their online communities.

Contact info

Marian LaSalle Chief Connector, Publisher and By Your Side Guide

[email protected]

📞 713-826-4942

Houston News and Events Guess What Houston

Business and Personal Growth: Referral Business Builders

Ricki L. McKenna

CN Certified Nutritionist, Health Coach, Chef, Speaker, Author Cell: 970-618-7607 Patreon.com/RickisKitchen RickisKitchen.net

Carol Pilkington

https://carolpilkington.com/

Marian and Ricki welcomed their guest Sharon Fant to the Connector's Edge Podcast. Sharon, an RN with 38 years of healthcare experience, discussed her journey into holistic healing after being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in 2005.

She explained how she reversed her diabetes using natural and alternative methods and founded the Holistic Healing Circle in 2020 to help others discover alternative healing modalities beyond traditional medicine.

Medical Protocols and Holistic Approaches

The group discussed the limitations of medical protocols and how doctors are trained to follow standard care guidelines rather than recommending alternative approaches like nutrition and exercise. Ricki and Sharon explained that doctors face legal risks if they don't follow established protocols, though some are increasingly incorporating holistic approaches.

Sharon clarified the difference between her business "Better Body Source" which provides educational resources and workshops, and the "Holistic Healing Circle" which focuses specifically on alternative medicine and natural healing methods.Elderly Medication Management Challenges

The group discussed medication management issues among elderly patients, sharing personal experiences as healthcare providers. Sharon and Ricki described encountering patients with excessive medication collections, sometimes filling entire shoeboxes or desk spaces with prescription bottles. They highlighted problems caused by doctors not communicating with each other about patients' medication regimens, leading to duplicate prescriptions, incorrect dosages, and patient confusion.

The discussion concluded with a real example from Marian about a pharmacy interaction where a pharmacist corrected a prescription dosage without first consulting the prescriber, leaving the patient confused about who to follow.Alternative Healing Methods Discussion

Sharon discussed her work with people seeking alternative healing methods outside traditional medicine, particularly those looking to reduce or eliminate medications. She emphasized empowering individuals to take control of their health and shared her book "Your Doctor Is Not the Boss of You" as an example of taking responsibility for one's health.

Ricki shared a personal example about using crystallized ginger to treat indigestion instead of antacids, noting how food choices can significantly impact health outcomes.Holistic Health Newsletter Collaboration

The meeting focused on a discussion with Sharon about her work in holistic health and nutrition, particularly her work with caregivers and parents. Ricki and Marian expressed gratitude for Sharon's insights and passion for educating people about their health. Marian announced plans to launch a new newsletter focused on promoting positive content in the Houston area, including a health and wellness section, and invited Sharon to contribute articles or sponsor the health section. Sharon agreed to provide contact information and links for the newsletter.

Contact info

Marian LaSalle Chief Connector, Publisher and By Your Side Guide

[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.netSharon Fant https://www.sharonfant.com

Connectors Edge Podcast ~ Lead generation through relationship buildingPodcasting and Relationship BuildingMarian and Ricki welcomed Brenda Marie Sheldrake to their podcast, where they discussed their shared passion for podcasting and building connections.

Brenda, who specializes in lead generation through relationship building, explained her expertise in LinkedIn and online networking. The three discussed the importance of building relationships and making introductions for business referrals. They also mentioned the Referral Business Builders community and the weekly book club that meets every Monday morning at 7:30 Central Time.LinkedIn Authenticity and Engagement ChallengesMarian, Ricki, and Brenda discussed the challenges and opportunities of using LinkedIn as a platform for meaningful connections and information sharing. Marian emphasized creating a safe space on LinkedIn where people can connect without fear of being sold to, while Brenda highlighted the prevalence of AI bots and the skepticism they generate among users. Ricki shared her experience of posting informative content and the challenges of distinguishing between genuine interactions and spam.

They agreed on the importance of authentic engagement and the need to combat spam and bots to maintain trust on the platform.LinkedIn Strategy and Connection Tools

Brenda shared tips on LinkedIn posting strategy, emphasizing the importance of consistent posting times and engaging with comments rather than directing people to DMs, which can be perceived as sales pitches. Marian introduced Lunch Club, an AI-powered platform for making online connections, and agreed to share a link with Brenda and Ricki. The discussion concluded with Ricki expressing appreciation for the podcast's educational value and encouraging audience comments and feedback.

LinkedIn Trust Verification ToolBrenda introduced a LinkedIn tool called "My Most Trusted" which helps users identify and connect with genuine contacts rather than bots. The tool, which requires Chrome browser, allows users to manually add trusted connections and exchange introductions, but requires a one-on-one meeting before adding someone to the trusted network.

Ricki and Marian expressed interest in the tool, with Marian noting it would be particularly useful for reducing spam messages on LinkedIn.

Connect with Brenda Marie Sheldrake https://www.linkedin.com/in/brenda-marie-sheldrake-lead-generation/

Marian LaSalle ~ https://referralbusinessbuilders.com

Ricki McKenna ~ https://rickiskitchen.net

The Connector’s Edge Podcast

“Ask, Connect & Nourish – The Power of Community and Wellness”Hosts: Marian LaSalle & Ricki McKenna In this heart-warming episode, Marian and Ricki explore how meaningful connection and mindful nutrition fuel both life and business.

💛Ricki shares her recent adventures... getting married, moving back to Colorado, and becoming a published columnist in The Sopris Sun with her new feature “Nutritionally Speaking.” Together, they talk about the magic of asking for what you want, celebrating community wins, and taking charge of your health.

You’ll hear how: A single ask opened the door to Ricki’s newspaper column. Community support inside Referral Business Builders keeps momentum going. Simple nutrition shifts and superfoods (berries, greens, fish, nuts & olive oil) give entrepreneurs the energy they need. Marian’s 48-pound success with intermittent fasting became a lifestyle, not a diet.

“Ask and you shall receive opportunities bloom when you speak up.”If you’re ready to feel healthier, connect deeper, and grow your business through real relationships, this episode is for you.

🎧 Listen & Subscribe:🔹 Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube @ConnectorsEdgePodcast📰 Read Ricki’s column: Nutritionally Speaking – The Sopris Sun🌐 Join our community: ReferralBusinessBuilders.com📬 Contact Ricki: rickiskitchen.net (put “Kitch” in your message)

Marian 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

Welcome to the Connectors Edge Podcast, with Marian LaSalle, Ricki McKenna and their special guest Michele Vilseck.

Inspiration Through Connection and Education

Michele explains that the word "inspire" means "to breathe life into," which she finds fitting for her work as a speaker who aims to breathe new life into people.

She discusses her websites, signaturestages.com and inspirespeakerschool.com, which both direct to the same content. Ricki shares about her brand "Ricki's Kitchen," which Marian suggests is more than just a cooking show, as Ricki also educates on nutrition.

The group discusses the importance of connection in business, with Michele emphasizing that people accomplish more together than separately, which aligns with the Connectors Edge concept that Marian and Ricki have developed.

Effective Speaking and Audience Connection

Michele shares that the key to effective speaking is connecting with the audience by focusing on them rather than oneself. She advises speakers to use second person language, ask questions to calm nerves, and practice regularly to improve.

Marian recounts how she initially didn't consider herself a speaker until someone pointed out that she was already speaking at networking events, which led to her running a speaker's club. The group discusses the importance of preparation, receiving feedback, and maintaining a mindset of giving and receiving when building professional relationships.Audience-Focused Storytelling Technique

Michele explains how to make storytelling more engaging by shifting from self-centered narratives to audience-focused ones. She demonstrates this technique by sharing her personal experience with celiac disease in two ways: first focusing on herself ("I" statements), then restructuring the same story to connect with the listener by using "you" statements and creating shared experiences. Michele emphasizes that effective storytelling involves briefly mentioning personal details before relating them to the audience's experiences, making them feel understood rather than just hearing someone else's story.Effective Public Speaking Connection Strategies

Michele shares strategies for effective public speaking, emphasizing the importance of using "you" to connect with audiences instead of more impersonal pronouns like "one" or "we."

Marian practices this technique by transforming a story about her video production business, with Michele suggesting she start with questions to engage the audience and offer solutions to common speaking fears. The conversation highlights the value of following one's intuition and passion in business, with Ricki noting that heart-based connections are essential for entrepreneurs.

Michele Vilseck signaturestages.com

Marian LaSalle referralbusinessbuilders.com

Ricki McKenna rickiskitchen.net

Marian and Ricki introduced their podcast, Referral Business Builders Connector's Edge, and discussed their upcoming events, including a training on Connectors Classroom Live and a book club. They highlighted the availability of their content on both audio and video platforms and encouraged listeners to join as guests for free. Special guest is Karen Tompkins. Ricki shared that she and Karen met in late 2017 and decided to become roommates soon after.Colorado Reunion and Fall AdventuresRicki and Karen, who have been friends for almost 10 years, recently reunited in Colorado's Roaring Fork Valley. They spent time exploring the area's fall colors, attended a John Denver commemorative concert at the Wheeler Opera House, and shared a delightful dinner with Karen wearing one of Ricki's scarves. Ricki also shared an amusing story about a plumbing mishap in her shower, and mentioned that Karen is currently working with a challenging company but has risen to the occasion.Ricki's Energy Healing Business JourneyRicki discussed her decision to retire in January 2027 and her journey into energy healing and reading, which led her to start her business "Vive LaStoria." She explained her process of helping clients release emotional and energetic blockages by listening to their stories and providing clarity. Ricki clarified that she currently works with clients in her office but plans to expand her practice to include virtual sessions and is not yet charging for her services.Referral Business Builders MembershipRicki and Marian discussed the benefits of joining the Referral Business Builders community, which costs $10 per month and provides access to a supportive group of carefully selected members. They agreed that this would be a good environment for Karen to start engaging with others, and Marian mentioned she could arrange 15-minute Zoom sessions for Karen to get comfortable. Marian also mentioned she was working on a new newsletter but decided not to discuss it further as it wasn't ready for launch yet..Marian 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

Karen Tompkins Energy Reader & Healer – Vive Lestoria

📞 Phone: 817-456-1131 (Please leave a voicemail; I only answer known contacts)

📧 Email: [email protected] include “Vive-Lestoria – Energy Reading/Healing Session” in the subject line.

🕒 Available for 15-minute sessions:Fridays after 3:00 PM • Saturdays & Sundays

🌿 Connect with me on Facebook:facebook.com/share/1ALpzjRsGn/?mibextid=wwXIfr(Feel free to follow me personally as Karen — I don’t have a separate page for this business.)

Welcome to the Referral Business Builders Podcast called Connectors Edge Podcast with Marian LaSalle and Ricki McKenna. Today guest is Dr. Tamera White. Summit Plans Courageous Women Rise DiscussionMarian and Ricki welcomed Dr. Tamara White to discuss one of her books "The Courageous Women Rise," which features stories from 50+ women, including their own contributions. Dr. Tamara explained that the book emerged from her vision to share courageous stories, emphasizing the importance of courage over confidence. Ricki shared her experience wearing a T-shirt from the book as a reminder of personal growth and courage. Marian inquired about the process of becoming courageous, prompting Dr. Tamara to encourage everyone to read the book for insights.Overcoming Fear in LeadershipThe group discussed fears related to success, failure, and taking on too much work, with Dr. Tamara emphasizing the importance of courage in overcoming these fears and disrupting negative patterns. Dr. Tamara shared her experience as a licensed counselor and coach, helping individuals identify and address stressors and build courage, particularly for entrepreneurs and business leaders. Ricki expressed her fear of disrupting people's routines and habits as a certified coach, while Marian shared a personal example of how Ricki's advice had positively impacted her.Direct Approaches in Client TherapyDr. Tamara shared her approach to disrupting clients' patterns by being direct and getting explicit permission to challenge them, particularly in therapy where she emphasizes setting clear expectations about her style. She explained how she helps clients get unstuck by asking what they want, encouraging them to explore their desires without limits, and providing structured frameworks like suggesting they write at a library. Ricki acknowledged this approach resonated with her and expressed interest in implementing it, while Marian discussed how similar principles apply to working with clients who are ready to make changes.Manifesting Goals With SupportRicki shared her experience of finding a perfect pedestal for their dining table at a Habitat for Humanity store for just $50, after months of searching for more expensive options. The group discussed the importance of clarity in manifesting desires and the value of accountability in achieving goals, with Dr. Tamara and Marian agreeing that having a supportive person or professional can make a significant difference. Marian also described how she found motivation for her fitness goals by partnering with a friend at the gym, emphasizing the power of mutual support in achieving personal objectives.Dr. Tamara's Speaking Engagements UpdateDr. Tamara shared her upcoming speaking engagements, including appearances at the Fearless Women's Summit in Houston and Calgary in September, and a women's conference she's co-hosting in Houston in April. She agreed to provide her contact information in the chat for audience members to learn more about her virtual events and speaking opportunities. Marian and Ricki expressed gratitude for Dr. Tamara's participation in their podcast and referral business builder community, and Marian reminded her to check her email spam folder for weekly newsletters and event notifications.Dr. Tamera White has an Upcoming event: Fearless Women's Summit HoustonSaturday, October 25thHouston, TXhttps://onewoman.ca/Contact Dr. Tamera WhiteLife Coach | Speaker | AuthorP: 346-706-0700E: [email protected]