Grace Through the Fire

Kia ora Beautiful Mama!

This episode is close to my heart because it’s about taking action — but not at the cost of your wellbeing.

This season is about activation, making bold moves, and finally bringing those ideas you’ve been sitting on to life. But here’s the thing: it’s not about pushing through on empty. It’s about making decisions in a way that honours your own energy cycles and natural rhythm, so you create momentum without burning yourself out.

If you’ve been waiting for the “perfect time” or “perfect plan,” this is your sign that the time is now to press play on this episode 

I also give away some key tips that will support you to make those moves in anyway that feels good. Same way I’ve done it and shared with supporting my clients to do it too.


Remember your ideas don’t need you to be perfect, they need you to be powerful… and that power is even stronger when it’s paced in a way you can sustain.

I can’t wait to see what you bring to life.

Ngā mihi,
Riss

Kia ora Beautiful Mama!

Welcome to Grace Through the Fire Podcast! This episode is so close to my heart…

Today I’m opening up about what it really means to build a business that doesn’t just look good on the outside ,but one that actually holds you through the messy middle, the life transitions, and the real seasons we walk through as women.

I’m sharing my personal journey through shoulder injuries, perimenopause, clarity dips, and identity shifts , and how all of it forced me to rebuild in a way that feels honest and sustainable. Because branding without structure? That’s just burnout in disguise.

In this episode, I share why your business must evolve with you, not stay stuck in the version of who you used to be. I talk about the danger of building only from strategy, the power of reconnecting to self-trust, and how I rebuilt my business model to actually reflect my life, energy, and values. After over a decade in this industry, I’m giving you the truth behind what it takes to grow with grace and lead from alignment.

PLUS, I’ve opened the doors to my FREE 5-day online experience, RESET.
Only 2 spots left, mama. If you know you’ve outgrown your current version of business, this is your sign.

Link in show notes or DM me to save your seat 

Love always,
Marissa

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Nga mihi,
Riss 

In this episode of Grace Through the Fire: The CEO Series, I had the absolute honour of sitting down with Janelle Riki-Waaka—a powerhouse wāhine Māori, cultural capability expert, and unapologetic leader whose presence alone is transformational. Our kōrero was nothing short of soul food. We dove into what it truly means to lead from a place of deep cultural identity, heart-aligned conviction, and radical confidence, especially as wāhine navigating spaces that weren't built for us.

Janelle opened up about how she manages her energy as an “energy magnet,” how she grounds herself after high-pressure situations, and why she refuses to “water rocks” when faced with resistance or criticism. Her wisdom around legacy, especially working for her unborn mokopuna (grandchildren), hit me hard—in the best way. She reminded me, and now you, that leadership isn’t about palatability—it’s about truth, aroha, and courage.

We also unpacked practical insights for entrepreneurs—from embracing fear as fuel, to staying in your strengths, to the power of surrounding yourself with community that lifts and recharges you (like pounamu, as Janelle beautifully explains). If you’re a woman—especially an indigenous woman—ready to lead unapologetically and leave a legacy rooted in people, planet, and purpose… this conversation is for you.

With so many unforgettable one-liners (yes, including “I do conversion therapy for racists” and “This is not your shit—do not pick it up”), this episode is bold, beautiful, and deeply needed.

Arohanui 
Marissa 

 Connect with Janelle Riki-Waaka: 

Visit Janelle's Website:    >> Click Here << 

Instagram:   >> Click Here << 

Connect with Marissa Lewis 👇👇

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Enroll now to UCA Bloomer for $99 Only!  -  >> Click Here <<

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Nga mihi,
Riss 

 Kia ora, I’m Marissa,

I am a proud Māmā to one beautiful son.

I bring a diverse skill set encompassing 20 + years in marketing & communications. And 10 years as a business owner, confidence Coach, Keynote speaker, Trainer, and Retreat facilitator. 

Through a wide range of strengths skills, modalities , techniques and proven strategies. I support women to stand up, and stand out in their most unique expression, offering new perspectives of unstoppable confidence and self leadership. So they can build a brand that not only looks good online but from the inside.

It was through my own trauma and personal journey that revealed my true purpose to bring more self-awareness to those who are wanting to live life on their terms and who desire to be successful Women Leaders entrepreneurs, creators, innovators and Business owners.

I am committed to always deliver ways to identify, overcome, cope, and embrace the day-to-day challenges of eliminating shame, self doubt and self sabotage, so the focus can be on creating a business and life that claims success.

I bring an eloquent, elegant, and empowering style of teaching and have written two self-help books that share unconventional ways to transform your struggles into strength  and how to take massive action.

It is my life mission to add value where I can, supporting women to reclaim their power, heal, grow and explore their greatest potential.

I am here to show Women how to go from baseline to brilliant so they can live a wildly positive and meaningful life that is fulfilling to them.

I sincerely believe in you, your vision, and your business so let’s go!

Riss  

Connect with Marissa Lewis 👇👇

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Enroll now to UCA Bloomer for $99 Only!  -  >> Click Here <<

2025 Coaching and Academy Enrollments Open now - Book A Call Now

Join the Ultimate Confidence Academy  >> Click Here <<

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Email Us at : >> Click Here <<

Follow for Updates on Instagram: marissa_gemma_lewis

Nga mihi,
Riss 

Kia ora, lovely ones. 

In this episode, Marissa shares the real story behind burning out every year for over two decades — and the deep, often invisible beliefs that kept her stuck in that cycle. She unpacks the hidden costs of high-achieving culture, the brain’s addiction to doing, and the moment everything started to shift.

Whether you’re a mum, a career woman, a business owner — or all of the above — you’ll hear real, relatable examples of how burnout shows up in everyday life, even when everything looks successful from the outside.

This conversation isn’t just insight — it’s an invitation. Inside, you’ll find powerful, reflective questions to help you get honest with yourself, reconnect with what you need, and begin rewriting the beliefs that keep you in overdrive.

If you’re a high-performing woman who’s exhausted from the pressure to prove, this episode is your permission slip to begin again — gently, bravely, and from the inside out.

Connect with Marissa Lewis 👇👇

Enroll now to UCA Bloomer for $99 Only!  -  >> Click Here <<

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Nga mihi,
Riss

Kia ora Mama!

Welcome back to the Grace Through the Fire Podcast – CEO Chair Series.

In this powerful episode, Marissa sits down with the incredible Dr. Karlo Mila to explore identity, belonging, and ancestral wisdom. Karlo shares her journey as a Tongan–Pākehā woman, mother of five, and founder of Mana Moana, a movement addressing Pacific youth well-being.

 From her time in Tonga to a life-changing challenge from a Māori teacher, Karlo offers deep insights into cultural pride, living with ancestral awareness, and balancing masculine and feminine energies.

Tune in to hear why knowing where you're from is the foundation for empowered decision-making and healing across generations.

What We Discussed:
– Karlo’s “fruit salad” identity and cultural duality
– Her time in Tonga and the impact of cultural reconnection
– The Māori teacher’s powerful question that shaped her identity
– Her father’s immigrant story and ancestral legacy
– Suicide prevention and youth well-being in Pacific communities
– Embracing feminine and masculine energies in leadership and life


If this kōrero moved you, please share it with your people. Let it be a reminder that your story, your culture, and your roots are your power. 

Keep showing up, keep healing, and keep leading—through the fire and beyond.

Connect with Dr. Karlo Mila 👇👇

Website: https://www.karlomila.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karlomila/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-karlo-mila-6b4b413b/?originalSubdomain=nz

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Visit Marissa Lewis Website: >> Click Here <<

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Follow for Updates on Instagram: marissa_gemma_lewis

Nga mihi,
Riss

Kia Ora!

Welcome back, my beautiful listeners, to Grace Through the Fire! 

Can you believe it? We've hit 60 episodes—60 powerful conversations that reflect our growth, our grit, and our grace. 

In this special and deeply personal episode titled "How I Turned Mustard into Cream," I’m sharing the raw journey behind my transformation—from the bitter days of self-doubt and self-sabotage to the smooth confidence I live in today. 

It’s a metaphor, mama, but it’s also a very real reflection of what it feels like to evolve, rise, and reclaim your power. Whether you’re stuck in a job that no longer aligns, navigating a season of burnout, or feeling the stirrings of something more calling from within—you’re not alone. 

I talk about the inner whispers we often ignore, the destructive habits that creep in, and the moment I got radically honest with myself and asked for the help I needed. From addiction and trauma to purpose and leadership, this conversation is an invitation to trust your timing and take the first step. 

Whether you're building a brand, launching a side hustle, or simply trying to lead your life with more presence and power, this episode will meet you right where you are.

Because if I could turn mustard into cream, mama, you better believe—you can too.


Nga mihi
Riss xx

Connect with Marissa Lewis 👇👇

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Nga mihi,
Riss

Kia Ora Mama!

Welcome back to Grace Through the Fire. I recorded this episode straight from my car, right after a beautiful walk up the maunga on an autumn day—because something powerful stirred in me, and I knew I had to share it with you.

Today, I’m talking about the moment I decided to reclaim my financial sovereignty and step into entrepreneurship. This journey isn’t easy—it asks us to face parts of ourselves we’ve hidden and to hold a mirror to our identity. But mama, when you remember who you are, when you choose to back yourself, confidence begins to grow.

I speak on the realness of the path: the emotional rollercoaster, the setbacks, the courage it takes to keep going, and the transformation that happens when you show up for your vision—especially when it feels too big to carry. If you’ve felt the nudge to become your own boss, build something that’s uniquely you, and live in your fullest expression, this episode is your reminder that you’re not crazy—you’re being called.

I’ll leave you with this:
What are you most afraid of when it comes to your success?
Because it’s often success—not failure—that scares us the most.

Let’s walk this journey together. You were built for this. And I’m so proud of you.  

Nga mihixx 
Marissa

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Nga mihi,
Riss

Kia Ora, my gorgeous humans! virtual hugs

Look who's back for another episode of Grace Through the Fire! Today, we're getting real - like, really real - about something that's probably messing with your head right now: the comparison trap. 

You know, that thing where you're scrolling through Instagram at 2 AM, wondering why everyone else seems to have their life sorted while you're still figuring out which end of the toothbrush to use. Been there, done that, got the therapy bills!

Let's be honest, mama - it's time to stop stalking other people's highlight reels and start being the main character in your own story. We're diving deep into why staying in your lane isn't just good traffic etiquette - it's essential for your sanity! I'll show you how to turn that comparison-itis into creative fuel, and how to define success on your terms (not what your second cousin's neighbor's dog thinks success should look like).

Plus, I'll spill the tea on building that queen energy online without burning yourself out, switching from "why them?" to "watch me!", and turning those doubt-filled moments into your personal power anthem.

Remember, my loves - you're not just enough, you're a whole freaking feast! 

Now, let's get into it and show the world what you're made of! 

Connect with Marissa Lewis 👇👇

Join the Integrated Impact Formula Mastermind -  >> Click Here <<

2025 Coaching and Academy Enrollments Open now - Book A Call Now

Join the Ultimate Confidence Academy  >> Click Here <<

Visit our Store: >> Click Here <<

Visit Marissa Lewis Website: >> Click Here <<

Email Us at : >> Click Here <<

Follow for Updates on Instagram: marissa_gemma_lewis

Nga mihi,
Riss

Kia ora, Mama! 

Struggling with low engagement, burnout, or feeling stuck in the ever-changing world of social media? 

In this episode of Grace Through The Fire, we break down the real challenges entrepreneurs face online and how to pivot with purpose. 

We explore powerful mindset shifts, energy audits, and alternative ways to grow your brand beyond digital platforms. 

With over 12 years of entrepreneurial experience, we dive into the evolution of marketing, the courage to take risks, and the discipline to stay consistent. 

If you're ready to reframe failure, push past distractions, and build a business with true freedom, this episode is for you!

Remember, Mama, success isn’t just about strategy—it’s about resilience, courage, and staying true to your why. Keep showing up, keep growing, and trust the process. You’ve got this! 

Love Riss xx

Connect with Marissa Lewis 👇👇

Join the Integrated Impact Formula Mastermind -  >> Click Here <<

2025 Coaching and Academy Enrollments Open now - Book A Call Now

Join the Ultimate Confidence Academy  >> Click Here <<

Visit our Store: >> Click Here <<

Visit Marissa Lewis Website: >> Click Here <<

Email Us at : >> Click Here <<

Follow for Updates on Instagram: marissa_gemma_lewis

Nga mihi,
Riss