Lifestyle and Lenses: Real Talk on Photography, Business & Mom Life

Summary

In this episode, Lauren Holub and Paige McInturff discuss a topic near and dear to them, dyslexia in honor of Dyslexia Awareness Month. They are joined by Dr. Natalie Hudson and Lara Speights from the Neuhaus Education Center, who share insights on identifying dyslexia, navigating the school system, and the importance of advocacy for parents. The conversation highlights the resources available for families, the neurobiological nature of dyslexia, and the strengths that individuals with dyslexia possess. The episode emphasizes the importance of early identification, support, and celebrating the unique abilities of those with dyslexia.

Takeaways

Dyslexia is often misunderstood and misdiagnosed.
Early identification is crucial for effective intervention.
Parents should trust their instincts when advocating for their children.
Dyslexia is a neurobiological condition, not a reflection of intelligence.
Support systems are essential for both children and parents.
Curriculum designed for dyslexia can lead to significant improvements.
Dyslexia can impact self-esteem and confidence in children.
Celebrating strengths can help children with dyslexia thrive.
Advocacy is key in navigating the educational system.
Dyslexia can be viewed as a superpower, highlighting unique abilities.

For more resources from Neuhaus Education Center:

• Have questions? Call or email the Neuhaus Family Support Office to speak with a Coordinator at –
  • [email protected]
  • 713-664-7676
• FAQs about dyslexia: Parent FAQs for Learning Difficulties - Neuhaus Education Center
• Upcoming Fall events: Family Support Events - Neuhaus Education Center
• Web Resources for Families: Web-Resources-for-Families-2025_Updated.pdf
• Empowering Your Child with Dyslexia Video: Empowering Your Child With Dyslexia
• Information about becoming a Dyslexia Specialist (two training options):
  • Dyslexia Specialist Preparation Program (DSPP) - Neuhaus Education Center
  • Online Certification Program for Dyslexia Specialists (OCPDS) - Neuhaus Education Center

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This week on Lifestyle and Lenses, Lauren and Paige sit down with freelance writer and editor Gabi De La Rosa to pull back the curtain on the editorial world. From luxury hotel features to magazine spreads and digital articles, Gabby shares what it really takes to stand out in print and online media.

You’ll hear how photography can make (or break) a story, what editors are really looking for when they choose images, and how photographers can break into the editorial world. 

Whether you’re a photographer dreaming of seeing your work in glossy pages or a creative curious about the behind-the-scenes of publishing, this episode is packed with insights you can use right now.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why bad photography kills good writing (and why editors won’t run your piece without quality images).
  
  
• How editorial photography differs from branding or lifestyle photography — and what editors really want to see.
  
  
• Why leaving space in your images (for headlines, sidebars, or cropping) is crucial in editorial work.
  
  
• The importance of synergy between photographers, writers, and editors on set.
  
  
• How to break into the editorial world as a photographer (hint: it’s all about relationships and the right contacts).

Why every photo tells a story — whether it’s a hamburger, a fashion shoot, or a ballet spread.

 Follow us on Instagram @lifestyleandlenses
Learn more about the Lifestyle and Lenses Collective: lifestyleandlenses.com

✨ Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review so more photographers + creatives can join our business bestie circle!

Top 3 Resources: 

1. Park City Rundown 

2. Parasite Cleanse -- yeah, we know... gross! 

3. Facial Dry Brush Paige uses

4. Gabi's editorial tool she likes -- powerthesaurus.org

This week on Lifestyle and Lenses, Lauren and Paige open up about the real, raw, and rewarding journey of running a business while navigating motherhood.

If you’re a mom juggling diapers, nap schedules, carpool and client calls—or dreaming of starting a side hustle while raising your babies—this conversation is for you. We share how we got started, the challenges we’ve faced, and the ways motherhood has shaped our businesses for the better.

Think of this episode as a coffee date mixed with a therapy session. We’re pulling back the curtain on what it’s really like to balance business and family life, and reminding you that you’re not alone in the chaos.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

• Our personal journeys of building businesses as moms
• Encouragement for new moms wanting to start their own hustle
• Honest talk about the struggles and joys of mom-life-meets-business
• How motherhood shifted our perspective on success and how we feel about showing our kids what entrepreneurship looks like
• Bringing our kids into our businesses, alongside us in our work
• How rhythms make a huge difference in our daily lives
• Flexibility is the name of the game running a business and running a house with multiple kids

Grab your coffee (or reheat it for the third time—we get it, mama) and come join the conversation.

👉 Subscribe to Lifestyle and Lenses wherever you listen to podcasts, and connect with us on Instagram @lifestyleandlenses.

Top 3 

1. Middle School boy must have – according to Paige
2. The “IT” bag for middle schoolers that we are seeing everywhere
3. Paper calendar Paige likes for alllll the notes.
4. Madewell trade-in program – WHAT??!! Amazing. 
5. Lauren’s crossbody purse she uses all the time! 
6. Camera with mini gimbal – Lauren is adding this in at some Brand shoots. 

Summary

In this conversation, Kelsea Buddo, a brand expert from Cember Studios. Kelsea is the Founder and Creative Director of Cember Studio, a boutique graphic design agency based in North Carolina. Since 2018, Kelsea and her team have served hundreds of creative entrepreneurs and lifestyle businesses with their adaptable style, personalized approach, and artful eye for branding.  During the episode, topics discussed are the intricacies of brand design, the importance of photography in branding, and the role of AI in the design process... Which includes as mic drop moment that you HAVE to hear! The hosts share personal experiences and insights on how branding can elevate a business and the significance of a cohesive visual identity. Kelsea emphasizes the need for collaboration between brand designers and photographers to create a comprehensive brand image that resonates with clients. For more information about Kelsea and Cember Studio check it out at cemberstudio.com or on Instagram @cemberstudio.

Takeaways

• Branding encompasses more than just a logo; it includes a holistic identity.
• A strong brand identity can significantly elevate a business's presence.
• Collaboration between brand designers and photographers is crucial for cohesive branding.
• Investing in professional branding can yield significant returns for businesses.
• AI tools can enhance design processes but have limitations in creativity and ownership.
• Understanding client emotions and expectations is key in branding and design.
• A well-designed website enhances the customer journey and experience.
• Personal branding allows for greater flexibility in business offerings.
• Guidelines in branding help maintain consistency and clarity in visual identity.
• Rebranding can be a strategic move to align with business growth and audience shifts.

Top 3 

1. Smaller camera with a punch to travel with, Paige's pick! 

2. Cute little boutique to check out online. 

3. No Tox pits detox 

4. Rolls Royce of yoga mats that Kelsea loves. 

5. Kelsea's lighting company to add a pop in your home. 

In this episode, Lauren and Paige dive into various topics including home photography tips, delicious food and drink recipes, recent adventures in Alaska, and practical iPhone photography techniques. They share personal anecdotes, favorite recipes, and insights on capturing beautiful moments with your phone camera. Plus, we made a freebie!! Snag your copy here and sign up for podcast updates.

Top 3 - 

1. Pork Chops Lauren's friend brought, YUM!! 

2. Large batch cocktails Lauren made for their cookout.

3. Favorite make-up towel 

4. Paige's new "work" shoes 

5. Alaska Trip summary -- spoiler alert, it's a must visit! 

Takeaways

The best camera is often the one in your pocket.
Using a phone for photography can yield great results.
Food and drink can be creatively combined for gatherings.
Measuring ingredients by heart can lead to delicious meals.
Alaska offers stunning landscapes and unique experiences.
Whale watching in Alaska can be a memorable family activity.
Getting down to a child's level enhances photography.
Adjusting the f-stop can improve portrait photography.
Increasing exposure can brighten photos significantly.
Traveling to lesser-known destinations can be rewarding. 

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to Season 2!
00:35 Exploring Home Photography
06:51 Food and Drink Inspirations
10:46 Adventures in Alaska
14:24 Mastering iPhone Photography

This week on Lifestyle and Lenses, we’re flipping the script! Our husbands are joining us for a no-holds-barred conversation you definitely won’t want to miss.

From how they really feel about being married to photographers, to what happens behind the scenes of our day-to-day chaos (yep, we’re talking forgotten gear, late nights, and juggling schedules) — nothing is off the table.

Think: newlywed game vibes meets behind-the-scenes tell-all. 👀 Expect laughs, surprises, and maybe even a few truths we didn’t see coming.

In this episode, you’ll hear:
✨ Their take on living with photographers
✨ Funny stories from the business trenches
✨ The ups (and downs) of balancing life + work
✨ A candid look at what it’s like to be in the Lifestyle & Lenses world

Subscribe to the podcast wherever you listen, and come hang out with us on Instagram → @lifestyleandlenses.

💻 Curious about joining the Lifestyle and Lenses Collective? Learn more at lifestyleandlenses.com — your business besties are ready to get started!

In this engaging conversation, Lauren Holub and Paige McInturff welcome Angelica Pompey. Angelica Pompy is a powerhouse business coach, marketing strategist, and multi-passionate entrepreneur behind several thriving brands including Pompy Portraits and Angelica Pompy Education. Known for helping creative, service-based women build bold visibility and bankable strategies, Angelica blends her expertise in marketing, systems, and client experience to help entrepreneurs turn chaos into clarity and profit. Whether she’s coaching inside her signature membership, Business Church, or leading retreats and events, Angelica is on a mission to help women show up, sell confidently, and scale with purpose.

On the episode, they discuss personal hacks, the importance of community and networking, and the journey of building a business. Angelica shares her experiences from the Creative Educator Conference, her growth as a coach, and the significance of being transparent in business. The episode emphasizes the power of connection, the role of a business coach, and practical marketing strategies for success. You can follow Angelica here! Or check out her website https://angelicapompy.com.

Takeaways

- Networking is crucial; an invisible brand doesn't make money.
- Community building is key to business success.
- Aha moments can lead to significant growth in business.
- Feedback from peers can help identify strengths and areas for improvement.
- Business coaching can take various forms, including one-on-one sessions and group coaching.
- Marketing strategies should focus on authenticity and connection.
- Small changes in business systems can lead to significant income increases.
- Creatives should not get hung up on aesthetics; systems matter.
- You make the rules in your business; don't be afraid to pivot. 


Sound bites

"You need to get in the room."
"You just have to do the work, baby."

Paige and Lauren Top 3 

Paige

Fave Steamer 

Dreamland Entertainment - T-Swift DJ -- Houston locals

Mom hack birthday cakes - white round cake with cake toppers (t-swift themed cake topper)

Lauren:

Pineapple mojito -- YUM!!

Top pick for moisturizing hair treatment  

What Lauren is sleeping in for her hair! 

Lifestyle and Lenses is loading with special guest Tori Stauffer. A St. Augustine-based branding photographer turned hybrid “photo + video + social strategist” for female founders. Tori helps women present their highest‑self, aligned with their business goals and brand strategy. You can find Tori at https://toristauffer.com or on Instagram @toristaufferphotography.

🎯 Key Topics Discussed

1. Transforming Client Experience

• Multi-channel prep (questionnaires, brand consultations, flow guides)
• Hair & makeup included by default for elevated results
• Focus on dream-client visuals—not just aesthetic images

2. Swift & Seamless Workflow with AI

• Evoto for retouching (removes glare, smoothes skin, cleans frizz)
• Imagen for high-speed batch edits using presets
• Tori now delivers fully-edited galleries in under 90 minutes

3. Marketing‑First Visual Strategy

• Images tailored for usage (e.g. IG grid vs. Stories vs. website)
• Balanced mix of polished content and candid iPhone shots
• Ensures longevity via Pinterest & strategic repurposing

📌 Takeaways

• Embrace AI tools to free creative energy and speed up delivery
• Think beyond aesthetics—visuals are tools to attract & convert clients
• A high-end brand experience starts before the shoot (prep, team, vibe)
• AI and automation don’t diminish your style; they amplify it

🍹 Top 3 Favorites

Lauren’s Picks:

1. Spicy mezcal margarita with a tahini rim—it packs a kick!
2. Beach waver tool for taming frizzy, southern-humidity hair
3. Trader Joe’s flowers & snacks, especially seasonal bunches and cranberry “Dunkers” cookies

Tori’s Picks:

1. Rest—she recently took a full week off and put up an away message
2. Laneige lip mask/stick—self-care staple
3. Kombucha as a mocktail substitute—a ceremonial nightly indulgence that supports her alcohol‑free year

Summary

Jac Kalaher joins Lauren and Paige as a guest to discuss her journey in marketing and business. They share insights on family life, coffee preferences, and home scents, while also delving into Jac's professional background and daily routines that contribute to personal development. In this conversation, Jac Kalaher shares her personal journey through the challenges of military life, motherhood, and postpartum depression. She discusses her transition into network marketing as a means to find purpose and financial independence while raising her children. Jac emphasizes the importance of community, collaboration, and supporting local businesses, ultimately leading to the creation of a network that empowers women and fosters personal growth. In this conversation, Jac discusses the importance of empowering client relationships, the abundance that comes from serving others, and the power of saying yes to new opportunities. They explore the significance of building community through their podcast, the authenticity required in business, and the role of confidence in personal growth. The discussion also touches on the importance of self confidence, overcoming postpartum challenges, and the resilience that faith can provide in life's journey.

Takeaways

- Jac shares her passion for business and marketing.
- Emphasizes the importance of personal development in her daily routine.
- The power of building a supportive community for personal growth.
- Collaboration over competition can lead to greater success.
- Empowering local businesses strengthens community ties.
- Women can thrive in entrepreneurship through shared experiences.
- Creating a safe space for women to connect is vital.
- Personal growth often comes from helping others succeed. Empowering clients means understanding their needs and offering tailored solutions.
- Authenticity in business fosters trust and genuine connections.
- Surrounding yourself with growth-minded individuals can elevate your journey.
- Jac's experience overcoming challenges, such as postpartum struggles, is possible with support and encouragement.
- Faith can provide resilience and purpose in navigating life's challenges.

Top 3 

Lauren: 

1. Chick Fil A - Iced Coffee

2. Gina Bowhill Candle - Bright as a Button

3. Nex Playground

Jac:

1. Home Scent - one scent for each room! 

2. BBL - Broadband Laser Therapy 

3. Morning Routine

Brenna Heater joins Lifestyle and Lenses podcast as a guest for the episode today! Brenna is a full-service portrait photographer based in Phoenix, AZ. She also offers online courses and coaching for photographers ready to be more present with their families and earn a livable salary. You can find her at http://www.brennaheater.com or on Instagram @brennaheater.

Summary
In this engaging conversation, Brenna Heater shares her journey from a shoot-and-burn photographer to a full-service photography business owner. She discusses the importance of mindset shifts, creating a cohesive product line, and pricing strategies that ensure profitability. The hosts also share their favorite beauty and household products, creating a light-hearted atmosphere while delving into serious business insights. In this conversation, Brenna Heater shares her insights on enhancing the client experience in photography through product integration, visibility, and the importance of patience during pricing transitions. She discusses the value of having a client closet, the significance of showcasing products, and the benefits of a membership program for photographers. Brenna emphasizes the need for photographers to communicate their value and create a seamless experience for clients, ultimately leading to higher sales and satisfaction.

Takeaways
- Brenna emphasizes the importance of mindset shifts in photography business.
- Transitioning to full-service photography can lead to increased income with fewer clients.
- Creating a simple and cohesive product line is essential for client satisfaction.
- Pricing should reflect the value provided to clients, not just the cost of services.
- Offering personalized services can significantly improve client experiences and satisfaction.
- Integrate product discussions from the first client inquiry.
- Patience is key when transitioning to higher pricing models.
- A client closet can enhance the overall experience and brand image.
- Offering additional value can help attract and retain clients.

Top 3 

Paige: 

1. Dirty Labs Detergent 

2. Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink 

3. OUT White Bright

Brenna: 

1. Make-up Eraser Balm

2. Korean Collagen Mask 

3. Ergonomic Mouse