In this episode of Growth on the Rocks, Desiree welcomes Arianna Lemus, writer, producer, and founder of the Mirala Film Festival. The conversation explores Ariana's journey in the film industry, her passion for empowering women and people of color in storytelling, and the mission behind the Mirala Film Festival.

They discuss the importance of representation in film, the changing landscape of the industry with the rise of streaming platforms, and the significance of creativity in mental health. The episode concludes with reflections on personal growth, aspirations for the future, and the impact of pageantry on their lives.

To support MiraLa visit: https://miralafilm.com/.

Follow Arianna at: https://www.instagram.com/soyariannalemus/

In this episode of Growth on the Rocks, Desiree welcomes Cory Haywood, a fitness expert turned relationship coach, to discuss the intricacies of dating, communication, and emotional attachment.

They explore the importance of clear communication in relationships, the dynamics of older women dating younger men, and the significance of vulnerability in partnerships. Corey shares insights on what men truly want in relationships, the impact of emotional attachment, and the red flags to watch for when dating someone going through a divorce.

The conversation also touches on the expectations surrounding marriage proposals and the cultural significance of Valentine's Day. Throughout the episode, listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own relationship dynamics and the importance of mutual respect and appreciation.

To work with Cory, visit : https://linktr.ee/corytalksnow?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGnsuqdEeM6Kse7Bguat56VDzgoKeKxOHa07Jhf8FG-hzRvRDHx08TK47X3d3Y_aem_uFec4qiTQgL7eQBLo97t6Q

In this episode of Growth in the Rocks, Desiree welcomes Taryn Ferrer, a financial wellness expert for high-achieving women entrepreneurs. They discuss Taryn's journey from financial struggles to empowerment, the importance of understanding money mindset, and the shift towards generational wealth among women.

Taryn shares insights on improving credit scores, setting financial goals, and the unique Rich Bitch Retreat in Bali designed to help women connect with their financial wellness in a supportive environment. The conversation emphasizes the significance of financial education and the impact women can have on their families and communities when they take control of their finances.

To work with Taryn, visit: https://msha.ke/tmoneyhoney22?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGnAPRuWxGDmVEZdvvlGEexvrSxtDvi0e2wY-eLVpUT6Eh9DfOe5h13gB0rnbY_aem_rfmOY4DwlP744gdF8Wq6sg

In this episode of "Growth on the Rocks," we welcome Val Casola, a website and copywriting expert, to discuss the importance of effective messaging and branding for entrepreneurs, especially as they embark on new ventures in the new year.

Val shares her journey from a young writer with a stutter to a successful copywriter, emphasizing the significance of understanding one's audience and crafting messages that resonate with their needs and desires.

The conversation delves into the nuances of copywriting, the psychology behind sales, and the critical role of websites in a business's success, especially in the context of social media's evolving landscape.

To work with Val, visit: https://valcasola.com/ig-menu?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGn-xOrL_m69Bk1XPPOLEBS-p6e1WJaAg4bHvKTax-jCq6u3E7aw4D3PAXpMG4_aem_ziGhxMv9G94fT6TeYDJVrw

In this episode, Desiree speaks with Andra Annett, a nurse and holistic practitioner, about her journey from traditional medicine to holistic health, particularly in relation to autoimmune diseases.

They discuss the importance of gut health, nutrition, and self-advocacy in managing health conditions. Andra shares her personal experiences with autoimmune diseases and emphasizes the need for individuals to listen to their bodies and advocate for their health.

The conversation also touches on the significance of seasonal eating, the role of color in nutrition, and the impact of environmental factors on health.

To work with Andra, visit: https://pounds-to-go.com/?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGnZVNfX66lCHdDRDXFqce9zhzWzGmL1i5YR_rOg0NQ4__zQe5ndej4Yd0si8k_aem_ASXpC4b1IOIIoHyR8sjnyg

In this episode of Growth on the Rocks, Desiree engages in a heartfelt conversation with licensed clinical social worker Stacy Montero about navigating anxiety, particularly for women entrepreneurs. They discuss the importance of understanding anxiety, the role of therapy, and practical coping strategies.

The conversation also touches on the impact of social media on mental health, the significance of grounding techniques, and how to support loved ones dealing with anxiety. Stacy shares her insights on managing anxiety related to lifestyle choices, holidays, and even flying, emphasizing the need for self-awareness and reframing negative thoughts.

To work with Stacy, visit: https://www.stacymonterotherapy.com/

In this episode of Growth on the Rocks, Desiree and Simone Little discuss the multifaceted journey of entrepreneurship, the importance of work-life balance, and the role of a fractional COO. They explore the challenges faced in the corporate world, the significance of community support, and the strategies for effective hiring.

Simone shares her personal experiences and insights on navigating multiple passions and the importance of building a supportive network. The conversation culminates in a hopeful outlook for the upcoming year, emphasizing the need for leaders to foster a positive work environment.

To work with Simone, follow her on Instagram at : https://www.instagram.com/thesimonelittle/

For the New Year episode of GROWTH ON THE ROCKS, I’m welcoming back fan-favorite Alex Propson for his third appearance—this time for an honest, no-fluff conversation about fitness, business, and integrity.

Alex opens up about his passion for fitness and how his education and professional training laid the foundation for launching the NautiFit business model. We talk about his work primarily with women and why sustainable lifestyle shifts matter far more than quick fixes. Together, we break down current fitness trends that actually make sense—along with the misleading, harmful, and unrealistic advice dominating social media.

Alex also shares what life looks like after Below Deck and Winter House, how visibility has shaped his brand, and the big vision he has for NautiFit heading into 2026. If you’re looking to set smart, actionable fitness goals in the New Year—without falling for gimmicks—this episode will help you approach your health, your mindset, and your goals with clarity, intention, and integrity.

To work with Alex, visit him on Instagram at : https://www.instagram.com/alexpropson/

In this week’s Christmas-week episode, I’m joined by the incredible Alexis Arnold, Transformational Nutrition Coach and the woman who will make you rethink everything you thought you knew about your body, gut health, and emotional well-being. We dive into the power of personalized nutrition, the mind–body–gut connection, and how food can truly help you glow from the inside out.

Alexis also shares simple, realistic tips to stay grounded, nourished, and sane during the holiday chaos—yes, even when the cookies and stress are calling your name. If you’re ready to feel good in your body and your mind this season, this one’s for you.

To work with Alexis, visit: https://pillar-wellness.com/

This week I sit down with the unstoppable GiGi Diaz—media personality, entrepreneur, entertainer, mom, and the powerhouse behind Seizing Happy. We dive into her incredible journey from gracing the stage of Sábados Gigante as a young performer, to launching her own dance studio, to becoming a familiar voice on radio and TV.

GiGi shares the pivotal moments that shaped her career, the reinventions that kept her aligned, and the passion that fuels her mission to help women entrepreneurs build happier, more intentional lives. This conversation is fun, inspiring, and a masterclass in owning your story without apology.

To connect with GiGi, follow her on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/gigidiazlive/