Your body is speaking. Are you listening? Janis Isaman, founder of My Body Couture and a trauma-sensitive movement specialist, lends her expertise to this fascinating topic. Learn how your body writes the story of your life and why understanding its language could be the key to unlocking emotional regulation and overall well-being. From distinguishing between trauma responses and emotions to practical tips for building body awareness, this conversation will change how you think about the mind-body connection.

Topics covered:

• Janis' background and her body-first wellness approach.
• Difference between trauma response and emotion.
• Understanding physical and mental connections.
• Importance of integration over healing.
• Impacts of modern living on health.
• How regular physical activity contributes to long life.

Here are some actions you can take whether you have 5 minutes or 50:

• If you have 5 minutes, read this article from Calm that talks about what the mind-body connection is and how to strengthen it. 
  • https://www.calm.com/blog/mind-body-connection
• If you have 50 minutes, read another article this time from Positive Psychology called "Exploring the mind-body connection (and includes 5 techniques)."
  • https://positivepsychology.com/body-mind-integration-attention-training/
• As an added bonus, I’m suggesting an article that Janis wrote on Elephant Journal called “A simple but difficult daily practice to connect our physical bodies to our emotions.”
  • https://www.elephantjournal.com/2022/02/the-key-to-enlightenment-lies-in-our-mind-our-body-janis-isaman/

_______________________________________________

Connect with Janis:
Website: https://www.mybodycouture.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mybodycouture
https://www.facebook.com/mybodycouture/

______________________
Contact French Kissing Life Podcast

• DM us at @shawnnarstiver on Instagram or Facebook
• Connect with Shawnna Stiver on LinkedIn
• Email us at [email protected]

Until next time, muah!

______________________

French Kissing Life is sponsored by Ampersand Copy and Content. Ready to convert browsers into buyers? If you want to master your messaging, stand out in a saturated market and become a crushed-on, go-to brand, contact us today!

Website: https://ampersandcopyandcontent.com/
Email: [email protected]

Imagine finding joy in the simple act of creating, free from the pressure of external validation. Today I chat with Meghann Chapman, the genius behind Artemis Soul, who has not only mastered the art of crafting stunning sun catchers but also discovered the deeper, transformative power of creativity. Through our discussion, you’ll gain practical insights on how to uncover your unique creative expression and incorporate it into your daily life for personal growth and well-being.

Topics covered:

• How creativity has helped Meghann grow personally.
• Finding one's "creative language" and reframing what creativity means.
• Importance of focusing on the creative process rather than just the end product.
• The role of discipline in developing creative skills.
• Balancing creativity as a passion versus a business/career.
• Tips for infusing more creativity into daily life.

Here are some actions you can take whether you have 5 minutes or 50:

• If you have 5 minutes, read this article from Psychology Today called “The Truth About Creative Expression.” I absolutely love what the author says when she writes, “Creativity, true creativity, is about the attitude we bring to life; a function of how we value, attend to and experience whatever it is that we are doing.”
  • https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/finding-your-voice/202110/the-truth-about-creative-expression
• If you have 50 minutes, watch this video from The School of Greatness called How to Find Your Creative Calling. The School of Greatness is first and foremost a podcast by Lewis Howes. This video comes from Episode #853. 
  • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hVivoLEgDmw
• Then if you really want to dig into this topic and you want to use creativity in a way that can absolutely benefit you, I found a free course on Coursera called Healing with the Arts, which teaches people how to heal through creativity. 
  • https://www.coursera.org/learn/healing-with-the-arts#modules

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Connect with Meghann
Website: https://artemissolcreative.com/
Shop: https://artemissolcreative.com/collections/all
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artemissolcreative/

______________________
Contact French Kissing Life Podcast

• DM us at @shawnnarstiver on Instagram or Facebook
• Connect with Shawnna Stiver on LinkedIn
• Email us at [email protected]

Until next time, muah!

______________________

French Kissing Life is sponsored by Ampersand Copy and Content. Ready to convert browsers into buyers? If you want to master your messaging, stand out in a saturated market and become a crushed-on, go-to brand, contact us today!

Website: https://ampersandcopyandcontent.com/
Email: [email protected]

Ever felt the weight of the world lift off your shoulders as you drift on the water? Holly Hillman, join us today to share her story of transformation and passion, reflecting a life lived with purpose and a deep connection to the sea. Learn how her experiences—from working as an emergency veterinary technician to volunteering at a wildlife refuge in Thailand—led her to the creation of this unique retreat that blends guided breathwork and meditation with the soothing rhythms of the ocean.

Holly is a dynamic person who has worn many hats - serving in the Navy, working as a veterinary technician, getting degrees in animal science and an MBA, and doing environmental conservation work in oyster reef restoration. Her biggest passion has always been connecting with nature and animals. This led her to start her business Soothe Sailing in Charleston, which offers meditative sailing experiences that combine breathwork, guided meditation, and encouraging presence with the calming effects of being on the water.

Topics covered:

• Holly's background and diverse career path.
• The concept behind her business Soothe Sailing.
• Connecting with nature, and having a positive impact.
• Understanding different perspectives, making a difference in the world.
• The therapeutic and calming effects of being on/near water.
• Holly's experience and perspectives on meditation, mindfulness, yoga.

Here are some actions you can take whether you have 5 minutes or 50:

• If you have 5 minutes, read this article from the Yoga Journal that talks about why meditating in nature is easier. 
  • https://www.yogajournal.com/meditation/how-to-meditate/natural-wonder/
• If you have 50 minutes, read another article this time from Calm (a really fantastic app) called Outdoor Meditation: How (and Why) to Meditate in Nature. 
  • https://www.calm.com/blog/outdoor-meditation
• One very small thing you can start doing is when you are outside, just simply start noticing what’s around you. It doesn’t have to be for a long period of time, you’ll start to feel the effects even if you do this for just a couple of minutes consistently every week. 

_______________________________________________

Connect with Holly
Website: https://www.soothesailing.com/
Instagram: https://instagram.com/soothesailing
http://www.facebook.com/soothesailing
https://www.linkedin.com/company/soothe-sailing/

______________________
Contact French Kissing Life Podcast

• DM us at @shawnnarstiver on Instagram or Facebook
• Connect with Shawnna Stiver on LinkedIn
• Email us at [email protected]

Until next time, muah!

______________________

French Kissing Life is sponsored by Ampersand Copy and Content. Ready to convert browsers into buyers? If you want to master your messaging, stand out in a saturated market and become a crushed-on, go-to brand, contact us today!

Website: https://ampersandcopyandcontent.com/
Email: [email protected]

Ever wondered how embracing your sensitivity could be your greatest strength? Join me as I recount my transformation from a shy, anxious child to a confident adult through introspection and therapy. Along with our guest, Becca Post we unravel the complexities of being a highly sensitive person (HSP) and an empath, and how these traits can be harnessed to foster self-acceptance and healing. Discover how Becca’s innovative fusion of clinical psychotherapy with holistic and spiritual practices offers a fresh perspective on the journey toward personal growth.

Becca is a Clinical Social Worker, Mental Health Therapist, and Coach for wholeness seekers, trapped achievers, karmic breakers, family shakers, and emotional feelers. She combines psychotherapy training with holistic tools and spiritual practices in her Forward Model of Change®. At Forward Healing, she offers modern tools and personalized models for Therapy and After Therapy®. Believing in a preventative approach, Becca helps you shift patterns and move forward, embracing wholeness beyond a diagnosis.

Topics covered:

• Overcoming nervousness, shyness, and introspection through therapy and self-awareness.
•  Importance of nurturing different parts of oneself.
• Becca's Forward Healing model, that integrates clinical psychotherapy with holistic tools and spiritual practices.
• How healing models are evolving beyond traditional methods.
• Tips for regulating the nervous system.
• Advice on how to begin your healing journey.

Here are some actions you can take whether you have 5 minutes or 50:

•  If you have 5 minutes, read this article from Psych Central called “What to do if you can’t afford therapy.” 
  • https://psychcentral.com/blog/what-to-do-when-you-cant-afford-therapy
•  If you have 50 minutes, read another article this time from Two Chairs called “What kind of therapist do I need?” 
  • https://www.twochairs.com/blog/what-kind-of-therapist-do-i-need
•  And then if you aren’t sure whether you need a therapist or a coach, take the free quiz on Becca’s website, it literally takes less than 5 minutes and can point you in a direction or give you insight that you didn’t know before. 
  • https://forwardhealing.co/phases-quiz

_______________________________________________

Connect with Becca
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/forwardhealing.co/
Website: https://forwardhealing.co/

Psychology Today, Find a Therapist:

______________________
Contact French Kissing Life Podcast

• DM us at @shawnnarstiver on Instagram or Facebook
• Connect with Shawnna Stiver on LinkedIn
• Email us at [email protected]

Until next time, muah!

______________________

French Kissing Life is sponsored by Ampersand Copy and Content. Ready to convert browsers into buyers? If you want to master your messaging, stand out in a saturated market and become a crushed-on, go-to brand, contact us today!

Website: https://ampersandcopyandcontent.com/
Email: [email protected]

Growing up in an entrepreneurial family set the stage for Talia Schneiderman's journey into the world of business and community building. In this episode, Talia recounts her path from teaching at My Gym Children's Fitness Center to co-founding the Harvest Goal Collective with her long-time friend, Steph Exner. We discuss the profound impact accountability groups have on women balancing multiple roles, offering them a safe and supportive space to chase their dreams and cultivate meaningful connections. 

Talia and Steph met in 2008 at My Gym in Thousand Oaks, California, where Steph attended Talia's baby gym class with her two-year-old son. They immediately hit it off, bonding over their entrepreneurial journeys, creative pursuits, and parenting experiences. Despite Steph's failed attempt to marry Talia into the family (seriously, it didn't work), they remained close friends and cheerleaders for each other. In 2022, they teamed up to create a platform to support other women's journeys, drawing on their shared passion for empowering others.

Topics covered:

• Importance of community and connection.
• The journey to founding Harvest Goal Collective.
• The concept and benefits of accountability groups.
• Building a community, starting from the initial stages to evolving and expanding over time.
• Providing a supportive and non-judgmental environment for members.
• Tips and insights for personal development.

Here are some actions you can take whether you have 5 minutes or 50:

• If you have 5 minutes, read this article from MasterClass on why community matters. 
  • https://www.masterclass.com/articles/importance-of-community
• If you have 50 minutes, read another article this time from Better Up that talks through the importance of community, including the different types of communities, the benefits, etc.
  • https://www.betterup.com/blog/importance-of-community

_______________________________________________

Connect with Talia and Stephanie
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harvest_goal_collective/
Website: https://harvestgoalcollective.com/

______________________
Contact French Kissing Life Podcast

• DM us at @shawnnarstiver on Instagram or Facebook
• Connect with Shawnna Stiver on LinkedIn
• Email us at [email protected]

Until next time, muah!

______________________

French Kissing Life is sponsored by Ampersand Copy and Content. Ready to convert browsers into buyers? If you want to master your messaging, stand out in a saturated market and become a crushed-on, go-to brand, contact us today!

Website: https://ampersandcopyandcontent.com/
Email: [email protected]

Ever wondered how a hilarious idea could evolve into a booming business? Today’s conversation is spicy—both because of the subject and because my guest, Brittany Pomplin, blew me away with her business intuition and self-belief. Brittany, a wife and mom, saw the potential in penis waffles and created Giggle Sticks, turning a "silly" idea into a wildly successful business. In this episode, we discuss the birth of Giggle Sticks, the criticism she's faced, her incredible growth, and why this is the most fulfilling job she's ever had.

Brittany is a wife and mother to two young boys. She is an avid traveler, loves to craft and scrapbook, enjoys hosting a good party, runs with her husband, and spends time with her kids. Her aha moment came when she saw penis waffles becoming popular in Spain and found herself surrounded by bachelorettes in Scottsdale. After years of travel and hosting parties, bachelorette events, and girls' brunches, her two realities collided, and the idea of Giggle Sticks AZ was born!

Topics covered:

• Brittany's initial brainstorming and research process for starting her business.
• Research and development, including experimenting with recipes and branding.
• Importance of creating memorable experiences for customers.
• Utilizing the Batch app for marketing and business growth.
• Handling criticism and skepticism about her business idea.
• Importance of pursuing and realizing one's passions.

Here are some actions you can take whether you have 5 minutes or 50:

• If you have 5 minutes, read this article from the Harvard Business Review that talks about how you can reclaim your creative confidence.
  • https://hbr.org/2012/12/reclaim-your-creative-confidence
• If you have 50 minutes, I've got a video podcast you can listen to or watch from Mel Robbins about building unshakeable self-confidence.
  • https://youtu.be/kMtNkJcJn3M?si=5uf5vhwUclXTYI96

_______________________________________________

Connect with Brittany
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gigglesticks_
Website: https://www.gigglesticksaz.com/

______________________
Contact French Kissing Life Podcast

• DM us at @shawnnarstiver on Instagram or Facebook
• Connect with Shawnna Stiver on LinkedIn
• Email us at [email protected]

Until next time, muah!

______________________

French Kissing Life is sponsored by Ampersand Copy and Content. Ready to convert browsers into buyers? If you want to master your messaging, stand out in a saturated market and become a crushed-on, go-to brand, contact us today!

Website: https://ampersandcopyandcontent.com/
Email: [email protected]

Join us in the second part of this episode as Ivy and I embark on a fun journey through the world of makeup artistry and more. Filled with laughter and insights, we explore Ivy's unique makeup line, the trials of product creation, and the balance between personal taste and universal appeal. We also dive into a spirited game of famous last words, debate quirky topics like pets in strollers, and share stories about TikTok blunders. We're here to celebrate self-expression through beauty and life!

Ivy Boyd is a makeup artist, founder of the beauty line Portrait, and a lover of Mid Century modern design. With over 11 years of experience, she's worked on thousands of faces, from presidential candidates to Real Housewives to brides. Ivy holds a Bachelor's Degree in Studio Art and still enjoys drawing and painting, but makeup is her preferred medium. She's married to her husband Jake, whom she met in Graphic Design 3 class, and together they've adopted many cats.

Topics covered:

• Ivy's journey to product line development.
• The significance of integrating art into makeup.
• Listening to clients' needs and frustrations to develop products.
• Ivy's future goals and product expansion.
• Utilizing customer feedback to improve products and expand the line.

Here are some actions you can take whether you have 5 minutes or 50:

• If you have 5 minutes, read this article from The Aesthetics of Joy called “How to embrace your inner child and find more joy.” 
  • https://aestheticsofjoy.com/embrace-your-inner-child/
• If you have 50 minutes, I’m going to have you do one item from the article, which is to make a joy list. It’s like a to-do list but only fun things are allowed on it. Things like “go to an outdoor movie” or “run around in the park.” The article says “This can be a challenging exercise for those of us who are trained to filter everything through a lens of productivity.” Whew boy do I feel that. To help you plan and get the creative juices flowing, the article talks about things that make you laugh or choosing something a visitor to your town might do. 

_______________________________________________

Connect with Ivy
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ivysavanah/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ivyboydmakeup/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/portraitbeautyco/
Website: 

______________________
Contact French Kissing Life Podcast

• DM us at @shawnnarstiver on Instagram or Facebook
• Connect with Shawnna Stiver on LinkedIn
• Email us at [email protected]

Until next time, muah!

______________________

French Kissing Life is sponsored by Ampersand Copy and Content. Ready to convert browsers into buyers? If you want to master your messaging, stand out in a saturated market and become a crushed-on, go-to brand, contact us today!

Website: https://ampersandcopyandcontent.com/
Email: [email protected]

Ever find yourself chuckling at the memory of your dorky childhood self, only to realize those moments shaped the person you've become? That's the essence of this conversation with my hilariously funny friend Ivy Boyd, whose life narrative is a vibrant palette of passions turned profession. Together, we explore her colorful journey from art enthusiast to the creator of a beauty line, all while maintaining a spirit of playfulness and authenticity that resonates with anyone who's ever felt like their quirks are their greatest assets.

Ivy Boyd is a makeup artist, founder of the beauty line Portrait, and a lover of Mid Century modern design. With over 11 years of experience, she's worked on thousands of faces, from presidential candidates to Real Housewives to brides. Ivy holds a Bachelor's Degree in Studio Art and still enjoys drawing and painting, but makeup is her preferred medium. She's married to her husband Jake, whom she met in Graphic Design 3 class, and together they've adopted many cats.

Topics covered:

• Ivy's transition from pursuing graphic design to becoming a makeup artist.
• The importance of feedback in both graphic design and makeup artistry.
• Overcoming self-doubt and societal expectations.
• Importance of self-discovery and authenticity.
• Building a client base and business through self-promotion and networking.
• Embracing feedback and continuous learning.

Here are some actions you can take whether you have 5 minutes or 50:

• If you have 5 minutes, read this article from The Aesthetics of Joy called “How to embrace your inner child and find more joy.” 
  • https://aestheticsofjoy.com/embrace-your-inner-child/
• If you have 50 minutes, I’m going to have you do one item from the article, which is to make a joy list. It’s like a to-do list but only fun things are allowed on it. Things like “go to an outdoor movie” or “run around in the park.” The article says “This can be a challenging exercise for those of us who are trained to filter everything through a lens of productivity.” Whew boy do I feel that. To help you plan and get the creative juices flowing, the article talks about things that make you laugh or choosing something a visitor to your town might do. 

_______________________________________________

Connect with Ivy
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ivysavanah/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ivyboydmakeup/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/portraitbeautyco/
Website: https://www.portraitbeauty.us/

______________________
Contact French Kissing Life Podcast

• DM us at @shawnnarstiver on Instagram or Facebook
• Connect with Shawnna Stiver on LinkedIn
• Email us at [email protected]

Until next time, muah!

______________________

French Kissing Life is sponsored by Ampersand Copy and Content. Ready to convert browsers into buyers? If you want to master your messaging, stand out in a saturated market and become a crushed-on, go-to brand, contact us today!

Website: https://ampersandcopyandcontent.com/
Email: [email protected]

This week, I'm joined by the delightful Anne Lauren Jolly, the creative force behind Azalea Drive's toxin-free nail color line, as we share tales of entrepreneurship, the rewards of friendship, and the beauty inherent in life's ups and downs. Anne's story is a vibrant splash of color in the world of beauty, and together, we explore the rich hues of personal growth and heart-centered existence that inspire our every move.

Anne Lauren is the Founder and Chief Matriarch of Azalea Drive, a 21-toxin-free, eco-lux nail color collection. Azalea Drive's mission is to revolutionize and ritualize the art of nail care. It was created from the mindset that life is to be lived in color and is too fleeting to be taken for granted.

Topics covered:

• Anne's inspiration behind starting the nail color line.
• The importance of non-toxic nail polish and its impact on health.
• Overcoming challenges and learning from mistakes in entrepreneurship.
• Having a supportive network of friends and fellow entrepreneurs.
• Personal resilience and overcoming challenges.
• Coping strategies during difficult times.

Here are some actions you can take whether you have 5 minutes or 50:

• If you have a little more than 5 minutes, I’ve got a Tedx talk called “How failure cultivates resilience” by Raphael Rose who explains how leaning into trials and setbacks builds the emotional callouses that help us value what's good in life.
  • https://www.ted.com/talks/raphael_rose_how_failure_cultivates_resilience
• If you have 50 minutes, I found an article from Positive Psychology that goes in depth about what resilience is, signs of resilience, how to build it, etc. And as a bonus, I also found a Resilience Resource Center from Everyday Health if you want to go even deeper on the topic. 
  • https://positivepsychology.com/what-is-resilience/
  • https://www.everydayhealth.com/wellness/resilience/resilience-resource-center/
• And then if you want to check out Anne’s nail polish line, her shop is at AzaleaDrive.shop and if you sign up for her email newsletter, you’ll instantly save 15% off your purchase.
  • https://azaleadrive.shop/

_______________________________________________

Connect with Anne
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/azalea.drive
Website: https://azaleadrive.shop/

______________________
Contact French Kissing Life Podcast

• DM us at @shawnnarstiver on Instagram or Facebook
• Connect with Shawnna Stiver on LinkedIn
• Email us at [email protected]

Until next time, muah!

______________________

French Kissing Life is sponsored by Ampersand Copy and Content. Ready to convert browsers into buyers? If you want to master your messaging, stand out in a saturated market and become a crushed-on, go-to brand, contact us today!

Website: https://ampersandcopyandcontent.com/
Email: [email protected]

When life handed Laura Vazquez-Waddell lemons, she didn't just make lemonade—she opened a mobile bar! Join us for a spirited conversation with the mastermind behind AZ Bachelorette Party and Muddle Fresh as she recounts her bold pivot from corporate security to the unpredictable ride of entrepreneurship. Alongside her husband, Laura has stirred up the event planning scene, bringing a zest of resilience and passion to every soiree and soirée they craft.

Laura is the proud owner and founder of AZ Bachelorette Party and Muddle Fresh Luxury Mobile Bar & Event Planning Service. Born in Mexico and raised in the United States, she pursued a successful corporate career before following her passion for event planning. Today, her companies are recognized locally for their excellence, as she continues to inspire others to pursue their dreams.

Topics covered:

• Laura's story and the process of starting her business.
• Laura's passion for creativity and event planning.
• The challenges of being self-employed and running two businesses.
• Transforming ordinary gatherings into extraordinary memories.
• Importance of hiring professionals, and the joy of seeing people's reactions to their events.
• Dealing with unexpected situations during events.

Here are some actions you can take whether you have 5 minutes or 50:

• If you have 5 minutes, read this article from the American Writer’s & Artist’s Institute called “16 Ways to Put More Enthusiasm in Your Work and Life.”
  • https://www.awai.com/2012/02/put-more-enthusiasm-in-your-work-and-life/
• If you have a little longer than 50 minutes, check out this book called “Living with Enthusiasm” by Mary Marcdante, which includes over 100 tips for increasing genuine enthusiasm.
  • https://www.amazon.com/Living-Enthusiasm-21-Day-Smile-Change/dp/0972771204

_______________________________________________

Connect with Laura
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/muddlefresh/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottsdale_party_planner/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/azbacheloretteparty/
Website: www.muddlefresh.com

______________________
Contact French Kissing Life Podcast

• DM us at @shawnnarstiver on Instagram or Facebook
• Connect with Shawnna Stiver on LinkedIn
• Email us at [email protected]

Until next time, muah!

______________________

French Kissing Life is sponsored by Ampersand Copy and Content. Ready to convert browsers into buyers? If you want to master your messaging, stand out in a saturated market and become a crushed-on, go-to brand, contact us today!

Website: https://ampersandcopyandcontent.com/
Email: [email protected]