Get ready for a fun ride on this episode of the Mad Rush podcast! Trisha Addicks chats with the inspiring Esther Goetz—author, spiritual director, and mom to four grown kids—about the wild emotional rollercoaster of launching your kiddos into adulthood. Esther, who runs Moms of Bigs, delves into the thrill of college acceptances and the heartache of an empty nest while dishing out wisdom on balancing the roots of unconditional love with the wings of freedom. They also dive into handling your emotions, embracing self-care, and keeping those parent- child relationships healthy and happy. Get the scoop on Esther's book, 'Roots and Wings,' to help moms survive those first 50 days after college drop-off. Buckle up for an enlightening and entertaining conversation!

Check out Esther's 'Moms of Bigs' Substack and Instagram for more insightful resources and support.

IG: https://instagram.com/momsofbigs/

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/momsofbigs

Episode highlights:

00:00 Introduction to the Mad Rush Podcast

01:31 Meet Esther Goetz: Author and Spiritual Director

02:12 Navigating the Emotional Rollercoaster of Parenting

03:20 The Challenges of Letting Go

06:42 Understanding and Embracing Grief

08:04 The Messy Middle: Transitioning to Empty Nesting

10:21 Comparative Suffering and Emotional Validation

14:43 Balancing Emotions and Self-Care

21:42 The Constant Colliding of Emotions in Motherhood

31:04 Navigating Family Traditions

31:51 Embracing Emotional Freedom

33:24 Balancing Curfews and Independence

34:59 Healthy Relationships with Adult Children

37:37 Generational Cycles and Emotional Honesty

38:16 The Influence of a Loving Grandmother

41:00 Practical Tips for Moms

46:33 Resources for Moms of Bigs

53:10 Final Thoughts and Graduation Tips

Follow Trisha on IG: @rushwithconfidence

Learn more about Trisha's company at https://itsallgreektome.org

Have questions or comments? Please send us an email at [email protected]

#sororityrush #college #sororityrecruitment #sorority #greeklife #bamarush 

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In this episode of Mad Rush, Trisha is joined by psychologist Dr. Jennifer Van Beck. Van Beck shares her journey into the field of psychology, highlighting her college experience and sorority involvement.

She delves into current mental health trends among college students, emphasizing the normalization of anxiety and depression and explaining the importance of addressing these issues. Dr. Van Beck outlines the differences between disordered eating and eating disorders, discusses the various types of eating disorders, and offers practical advice for parents and students alike. She also touches on the role of sororities in shaping mental health and the impacts of social media. Valuable tips for mindful eating and coping strategies for mental health challenges are provided, making this an informative session for understanding and improving mental well-being.

00:00 Introduction and Background

03:54 Mental Health Awareness in College Students

04:35 Understanding Anxiety and Depression

06:40 Coping Strategies for Anxiety and Depression

10:08 Disordered Eating vs. Eating Disorders

15:40 Parental Guidance and Support

20:31 Finding the Right Therapist

32:32 Sorority Culture and Eating Disorders

43:37 Mindful Eating and Coping Skills

46:42 Conclusion and Contact Information

Dr. Jennifer VanBeck's Website: https://drjennifervanbeck.com/

Dr. Van Beck on Psychology Today

National Alliance for Eating Disorders: https://www.findedhelp.com/

Follow Trisha on IG: @rushwithconfidence

Learn more about Trisha's company at: https://itsallgreektome.org

Have questions or comments? Send us an email: [email protected]

#sororityrush #college #sororityrecruitment #sorority #greeklife #bamarush 

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In this episode of Mad Rush, the host welcomes Katie Bulmer, the witty and insightful host of the Truth for Your Twenties podcast and a keynote speaker at over 70 colleges nationwide. Katie shares her background, including her unexpected journey into the Greek world at Georgia Southern University and how it has shaped her career. She discusses her marketing aha moment involving Comfort Colors brand t-shirts, emphasizing the trendsetting power of sorority women. Katie also talks about empowering young women to use their influence for good, addressing topics like healthy relationships, avoiding dating 'dirt bags', and the life lessons she's learned. The conversation also touches on Katie's podcast, her book, and the significance of authenticity and understanding one's worth. The episode concludes with Katie’s observation of the day, highlighting her experience hosting an exchange student from Germany and how it has broadened her perspective.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:46 Katie's Background and Greek Life Journey

06:04 Sorority Influence and Marketing Insights

07:13 Comfort Colors Phenomenon

13:07 Empowering Young Women

18:00 Reflections on Missed Opportunities

18:36 The Power of Unique Voices

21:08 Introducing the 'Truth For Your Twenties' Podcast

24:28 The Impact of Authenticity

26:41 Dating Advice for Young Women

29:06 The Importance of Character Over Looks

33:47 Hosting an Exchange Student

35:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Katie's website: https://katiebulmer.life/

Katie's IG: https://www.instagram.com/katiebulmerlife/

Katie's links: https://katiebulmer.life/links

Follow Trisha on IG: @rushwithconfidence

Learn more about Trisha's company at: https://itsallgreektome.org

Have questions or comments? Send us an email: [email protected]

#sororityrush #college #sororityrecruitment #sorority #greeklife #bamarush 

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In this episode, Trisha is joined by Lydia Fenet, a rockstar author, speaker, and founder of the Lydia Fenet Agency. Lydia shares her inspiring journey from being an intern at Christie's Auction House to running a successful talent agency. She discusses the importance of hard work, positivity, and embracing failure to achieve success. Lydia also dives into her experiences with public speaking and storytelling and the lessons she learned from various career setbacks. Together, we explore her impactful books, 'The Most Powerful Woman in the Room is You' and 'Claim Your Confidence,' offering invaluable advice on navigating obstacles and claiming one's confidence.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Announcement

02:06 Lydia Fant's Background and Early Career

02:38 Internship at Christie's Auction House

04:15 The Importance of Positivity and Hard Work

05:59 Navigating Failures and Rejections

07:36 Sorority Life and Greek System at Suwanee

09:13 Career Progression at Christie's

09:57 Becoming a Charity Auctioneer

20:14 Balancing Career and Family Life

21:03 Mentorship and Writing Journey

23:09 Embracing Rejection and Timing

23:35 Writing 'The Most Powerful Woman in the Room is You'

23:59 The New York Times Feature and Career Shift

26:03 Launching a Talent Agency

26:48 Navigating Rejection and Mentorship

31:37 Lessons from Netflix and Hulu Deals

36:41 Final Thoughts and Observations

Lydia's website: https://lydiafenet.com/

Lydia on IG: https://www.instagram.com/lydiafenet

Follow Trisha on IG: https://instagram.com/@rushwithconfidence

Learn more about Trisha's company at: https://itsallgreektome.org

Have questions or comments? Send us an email: [email protected]

#sororityrush #college #sororityrecruitment #sorority #greeklife #bamarush 

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In this episode, I'm thrilled to chat with Sara Fay Egan, author of 'The Through Line: Finding Happiness Through the Curveballs of Life, Family, and Business.' From her roots in Memphis and college days at Ole Miss to her 20-year career as a high-profile event planner. Sara shares her journey of embracing authenticity and overcoming challenges. We discuss the pressures of modern event planning, the importance of being true to oneself, and the invaluable skill of pivoting in life. Tune in for compelling wedding stories, tips on handling life's unexpected turns, and insights on achieving genuine happiness.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

02:06 Sarah Faye's Background and Career Journey

02:42 College Memories and Sorority Life

04:58 Transition to Event Planning

05:38 Pivoting to Restaurant Management

08:10 Writing the Book: Crazy Wedding Stories

19:32 Lessons from Event Planning

23:48 Overcoming Worry and Embracing Uncertainty

24:52 The Pressure of Social Media

28:41 Blocking Out Negativity

31:15 Finding Your True Self

33:43 Wedding Planning Challenges

39:14 The Bear and the Wedding Cake

41:11 The Importance of Pivoting

45:47 Final Thoughts and Book Information

Buy Sara’s Book on Amazon https://amzn.to/3FzBCTu

Follow Sara on IG: @sarafayegan or @sarafayeganevents

Follow Trisha on IG: @rushwithconfidence

Learn more about Trisha's company at: https://itsallgreektome.org

Have questions or comments? Send us an email: [email protected]

#sororityrush #college #sororityrecruitment #sorority #greeklife #bamarush 

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In this episode of Mad Rush, our host, Trisha Addicks, is interviewed by Regan Brown, a senior at the University of South Carolina currently studying in Madrid, about the challenges and experiences of sorority recruitment. They delve into the importance of connections, unexpected challenges during rush, and the role of recruitment consultants. The conversation highlights the different approaches and support systems, from Pi Chis to third-party consultants, and how these resources can impact success rates in sorority recruitment. Reagan shares insights from her Honors College thesis research, which explores changing trends and the increased interest in southern schools and Greek life amidst the TikTok and Bama Rush phenomena.

Follow Trisha on IG: @rushwithconfidence

Learn more about Trisha's company at: https://itsallgreektome.org

Have questions or comments? Send us an email: [email protected]

#sororityrush #college #sororityrecruitment #sorority #greeklife #bamarush 

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Today, I am very excited to be joined by Jan Risher. Our friend Stephanie November referred her to me, and you are truly in for a treat!

Jan is the Louisiana Culture Editor for Georges Media, where she writes three statewide columns a week, serves as the Baton Rouge features editor, and leads Louisiana Inspired and Louisiana Health as editor. On top of all that, her newest book, “Q of the D: Encouraging Conversation and Connection,” was released in November 2024—and it couldn’t have come at a better time.

In this episode, Jan and I dive into her passion for storytelling, building community, and why strong conversation skills are more essential than ever. We also explore Jan's favorite Louisiana adventures (mermaid tales included!), how simple gestures like the "Virtual Casserole" can make a lasting impact, and the college friendship that sustains her decades later.

Topics We Cover:

✨ Meeting Cathie Curtis in college and the lifelong power of friendship

✨ What exactly is Virtual Casserole—and how you can "deliver a little goodness."

✨ Jan's favorite Louisiana exploits (yes, there’s a mermaid story!)

✨ Why conversation skills matter and what inspired her to write Q of the D

✨ How we can foster deeper connection and community in today's world

Connect with Jan Risher:

📚 Question of the Day: Encouraging Conversation and Connection https://amzn.to/41I6Tw7

📸 https://www.instagram.com/janrisher/

Thanks so much for listening to Mad Rush! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who loves great conversation and community-building.

Follow Trisha on IG: @rushwithconfidence

Learn more about Trisha's company at: https://itsallgreektome.org

Have questions or comments? Send us an email: [email protected]

#sororityrush #college #sororityrecruitment #sorority #greeklife #bamarush 

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Transitioning to college is one of the most significant shifts in a young person’s life—filled with excitement, uncertainty, and growing pains. But what if students (and their parents) could approach it with confidence, clarity, and the freedom to embrace all the possibilities?

In this episode of Mad Rush Podcast, Harlan Cohen, New York Times bestselling author and college transition expert, joins Trisha to talk about why having options is the key to success—not just in college, but in life. Too often, students (and parents) get locked into a single outcome or rigid idea of the "perfect" college experience. But Harlan challenges this mindset, offering practical strategies to help students build resilience, confidence, and a sense of belonging—no matter where they are.

💡 What you'll learn in this episode:

✅ How students can create their own version of the ideal college experience

✅ The biggest mistakes parents make when guiding their kids through this transition

✅ Why having options leads to clarity, strength, and less anxiety about the future

✅ How to embrace discomfort as a natural and necessary part of growth

✅ Building a strong support system and finding “your people” on campus

✅ Navigating roommate conflicts, social pressures, and academic challenges with confidence

Harlan’s wisdom goes beyond college—his insights apply to anyone navigating major life transitions. Whether you're a student preparing for the next big step or a parent trying to support without overstepping, this conversation is packed with honest, practical advice to help you move forward with confidence.

Harlan's Website: https://harlancohen.com

You can find Harlan on TikTok (@helpmeharlan) and Instagram (@HarlanCohen)

Follow Trisha on IG: @rushwithconfidence

Learn more about Trisha's company at: https://itsallgreektome.org

Have questions or comments? Send us an email: [email protected]

#sororityrush #college #sororityrecruitment #sorority #greeklife #bamarush 

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This week on Mad Rush, Trisha sits down with Laurin Collar, the creator of TheCollarfind—a vibrant online community dedicated to helping busy women save time, money, and effort while staying stylish and organized.

Laurin shares how her love for the perfect find started early, from hunting shark teeth as a child to discovering hidden gems in TJMaxx aisles with her mom. With a background as a broadcast journalist, she honed her storytelling skills and uncovered the best resources for women navigating different stages of life. Now, she’s built TheCollarfind into a go-to destination for:

✨ Easy, time-saving recipes

✨ College prep tips & must-have lists

✨ Chic and effortless style for women 40+

✨ Southern living insights straight from Charleston

✨ Daily shopping finds, deals, and home essentials

Laurin’s passion for curating the best of the best has transformed into a movement of strong, supportive women helping each other navigate life with ease. Whether you're sending kids off to college, searching for the best seasonal wardrobe staples, or just looking for the perfect gift, Laurin has you covered.

🔗 Connect with Laurin & Shop Her Finds:

Laurin's Links: https://linktr.ee/thecollarfind

📸 Follow her on Instagram: @TheCollarfind

Tune in now and discover how to simplify your life while elevating your style! 🎧

👉 Don’t forget to rate, review, and share this episode with a friend who loves a great find!

Follow Trisha on IG: @rushwithconfidence

Learn more about Trisha's company at: https://itsallgreektome.org

Have questions or comments? Send us an email: [email protected]

#sororityrush #college #sororityrecruitment #sorority #greeklife #bamarush 

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In this episode of Mad Rush, Trisha Addicks welcomes Mary Spencer Veazey, Georgia native, author, and Engagement Manager for Daystar Counseling Ministries. Mary Spencer shares her insights on navigating life’s unexpected twists and turns with grace and clarity—just as she details in her book, Cul-de-Sac Crosswords: Navigating Life’s Twists and Turns in Your Twenties with Courageous Clarity.

Mary Spencer’s journey began at Auburn University and took her through a series of life experiences that inspired her to write and speak about the unique challenges of early adulthood. She opens up about her transition from college life, the following struggles and growth, and how her work at Daystar Counseling has shaped her perspective on helping others.

Trisha and Mary Spencer also discuss the powerful connection between her book and the work of Smith Childs, author of Embracing Your Story, which offers guidance for teen girls. Together, they reflect on the importance of storytelling, faith, and self-discovery for young women navigating life’s ever-changing seasons.

Tune in to hear:

Follow Mary Spencer Veazey:

🔹 Website: https://www.maryspencerveazey.com/

🔹 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mencervz

Connect with Trisha Addicks:

Follow Trisha on IG: @rushwithconfidence

Learn more about Trisha's company at: https://itsallgreektome.org

Have questions or comments? Send us an email: [email protected]

🔹 Listen to more episodes of Mad Rush wherever you get your podcasts!

🎧 Available now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube!

#sororityrush #college #sororityrecruitment #sorority #greeklife #bamarush 

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