What happens when a love of reading turns into a community-driven, eco-friendly brand? That’s the story of Melissa Rocha, founder of Shelf Haven, a book-inspired goods and apparel store with a mission to create unique, sustainable merch for readers everywhere. From plantable bookmarks to recycled-material fanny packs for your Kindle, Melissa has found a way to merge her passions for reading, design, and environmental impact.

In this episode, Melissa shares how her journey started with a reading Instagram account and evolved into a thriving business. We talk about finding identity outside of societal expectations, embracing the stress of pursuing your own vision, and turning hobbies into opportunities through the power of community. If you’ve ever dreamed of creating something meaningful, Melissa’s story is the inspiration you need.

Support Melissa's journey!
Instagram: @shelfhaven
Website: Shelfhaven.com

If you're in Cincinnati, check out Hello Clio to find Shelf Haven merch!

#creatingconnectionswithmagdalena #ecofriendlybusiness #booklovermerch #entrepreneur #community

What if, instead of following the usual post-college path, you chose to build something entirely your own? That’s exactly what Jordenn is doing. In her last year of college, she took a chance on NABaldie, a digital space dedicated to the growing world of zero-proof drinks. In just a year, Jordenn’s created a community, collaborated with brands, and made her mark in a space that aligns with her vision—and it’s only the beginning.

In this episode, we dive into Jordenn’s journey of building a brand that speaks to her passion, from her first social media post to her dreams of a zero-proof speakeasy. If you’re ready to take a step toward your own purpose, Jordenn’s story will show you how creativity and courage can bring you closer to the life you want.

Support Jordenn's journey!
Instagram: @nabaldie

Ever wonder if working in a startup is for you? Adrian, co-founder of Spark, is making it easier and better for you to find out.

Discover how "Spark" is all about leveling the playing field for professionals of color (POC) when it comes to job applications and startups. We'll explore how Spark not only provides solutions but also tackles the mental hurdles POCs often face, like turning personal experiences, into resume-worthy assets.

In this episode, we'll take a deep dive into Adrian's background and the unique journey that inspired him to launch Spark. Following that, we'll provide you with a comprehensive overview of what you can anticipate as a user of the Spark platform

Connect with Adrian: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adriantovalin/

#creatingconnectionswithmagdalena #Entrepreneurship #creativity #startups #motivation #personaldevelopment #DiversityinTech #POC

Can't get past the starting phase? This might do the trick. 

#MadMondayz are motivational episodes that help you clear your mind before a productive week! 

In this powerful episode, I sit down with Gabriella, who shares her deeply personal journey of making the tough decision to walk away from her life as a D1 athlete. She takes us back to the crossroads of choosing her college path and navigating the maze of uncertainties. We dive deep into her journey from being a D1 athlete, the emotions and thoughts that came with considering a life beyond sports, and the courageous leap she took to redefine her identity. 

Tune in to uncover the key factors that drove her decision, the positive self-discoveries post-athlete life, and the profound lessons she's learned about herself along the way. This episode is all about resilience, adaptability, and how transformation shapes your perspective on personal growth and identity. 🎧🎙️🌟

Join me for an inspiring conversation with indie artist, filmmaker, and actor, Bertrand Best. Born and raised in "The SWAT" in Houston, Texas, Bertrand's journey is a captivating blend of cinema and personal growth.

Discover how he transformed his passion for filmmaking into a serious endeavor during his time at Sam Houston State University. Bertrand co-founded a black film society, facing challenges that tested his leadership and communication skills.

Explore Bertrand's journey of self-improvement, driven by the need for better collaboration and communication within his team. Learn from a specific instance where a lack of effective interpersonal communication prompted introspection and positive change.

Listen as Bertrand shares the strategies and resources that enhanced his interpersonal communication skills and contributed to the success of BARB Productions.

Tiktok: @bertrandbest_
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pYn7qwHz3pg

A check in with yourself inspired by Barbie and my latest conversation with my therapist. 

If you've been struggling with why things haven't been working out for you lately, this is for you. 

In this deeply personal episode, I want to share with you how a recent YouTube video by the incredible Bessel van der Kolk sparked a profound shift in my perspective on healing trauma without medication. Inspired and motivated, I decided to embark on a 30-day journey, crafting my own version of what I learned from the video, with a special focus on embracing body acceptance. Join me as I open up about my experiences, struggles, and breakthroughs, and let's explore the transformative power of holistic healing together