say YES to yourself! | Inspiring Women in Midlife to Create a Life They Love

Fan Mail: Tell Wendy how you're saying yes to yourself!

Word of the Year Workshop It's not too late! Join Wendy for a 3-day FREE workshop where you'll identify your word or intention for 2025. Tuesday, January 7th - Thursday, January 9th, 2025. Click here to register!

In this episode, Wendy sits down with Kash Rocheleau, who recently transitioned from CFO to CEO of Icon Foods, for a powerful discussion about choosing yourself without sacrificing professional success. After her 11-year-old's candid observation about her work habits sparked a profound shift, Kash shares her journey of transforming her approach to life and leadership. Through vulnerable stories about perfectionism, parenting, and professional growth, Kash reveals how saying "no" to tasks that can be delegated creates space for life's precious moments. Together, Wendy and Kash explore how effective delegation, boundary-setting, and releasing perfectionism can unlock greater joy and connection. They discuss the ripple effects of being present and finding courage to build a life aligned with personal values rather than external expectations. Kash's evolution from detail-oriented CFO to visionary CEO demonstrates how authentic leadership and vulnerability can coexist, while highlighting the freedom found in letting go of perfectionism. This episode is essential listening for leaders and professionals seeking to master work-life integration while prioritizing what truly matters.

About Kash:
Kash Rocheleau served as the chief financial officer for Icon Foods soon moving into theCEO role (as of May 10, 2024). She oversees the financial operations, reporting, and compliance ofthese organizations, as well as drives their growth and profitability. She has a strong background inlegal matters, such as acquisition negotiation, trademark applications, regulatory compliance, andcontract drafting, which enables her to handle complex and diverse transactions and issues. Shecurrently holds an MBA degree from Eastern Washington University, with a focus on accounting andfinance, to further enhance her skills and knowledge in this field. In her free time, she loves to bewith her family, spend time outdoors, and golf.

Connect with Kash:
On Instagram @kash.rocheleau
On LinkedIn
IconFoods.com

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Connect with Wendy:

Linkedin
Instagram: @wendy.harrop
Facebook: Phineas Wright House

Website: Phineas Wright House
PWH Farm Stays
PWH Curated Experience and Travel

Interested in being a guest on the show?
Send your pitch to [email protected]

Podcast Production By Shannon Warner of Resonant Collective
Want to start your own podcast? Let's chat!

If this episode resonated, follow Say YES to Yourself! and leave a  5-star review. It helps more women in midlife discover the tools, stories, and community that make saying YES not only possible, but powerful.

Fan Mail: Tell Wendy how you're saying yes to yourself!

Word of the Year Workshop Join Wendy for a 3-day FREE workshop where you'll identify your word or intention for 2025. Tuesday, January 7th - Thursday, January 9th, 2025. Click here to register!

Travel Resources Mentioned:
buybusinessclass.com
aaeliteairport.com
victorcabsparis.com

Say YES to Paris! Enjoy Paris & Normandy with Wendy, September 10th-16th, 2025. Get all the details here.

Ever feel like life is just too serious sometimes? In this episode, Wendy sits down with author Beth Dodd for a lighthearted yet powerful conversation about the importance of laughter, perspective, and choosing joy—no matter the season you're in. Beth shares how embracing humor and shifting her mindset has helped her navigate life’s ups and downs with grace and resilience. From unplugging from the noise of the world to focusing on what you can control, this episode is a reminder that you’re the deliberate creator of your experience. Get ready to laugh, reflect, and walk away with actionable tools to reframe your everyday moments with joy.

Connect with Beth:
On Instagram @funnyysister
Email: [email protected]

Buy her book, Laughter is an Instant Vacation: amazon.com/Laughter-Instant-Vacation-Humorous-Positive/dp/1962280454?tag=syty-20

Referenced in this Episode:
A Return to Love: Reflections on the Principles of A Course in Miracles by Marianne Williamson: amazon.com/Return-Love-Reflections-Principles-Miracles/dp/0060927488?tag=syty-20

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Connect with Wendy:

Linkedin
Instagram: @wendy.harrop
Facebook: Phineas Wright House

Website: Phineas Wright House
PWH Farm Stays
PWH Curated Experience and Travel

Interested in being a guest on the show?
Send your pitch to [email protected]

Podcast Production By Shannon Warner of Resonant Collective
Want to start your own podcast? Let's chat!

If this episode resonated, follow Say YES to Yourself! and leave a  5-star review. It helps more women in midlife discover the tools, stories, and community that make saying YES not only possible, but powerful.

Fan Mail: Tell Wendy how you're saying yes to yourself!

Plan your Space to Dream solo retreat here!

Jessie-Sierra Ross's Previous Appearance on the Podcast

This week, Wendy welcomes back Jessie-Sierra Ross, author of the new cookbook "Seasons Around the Table." In this inspiring conversation, Jessie reveals how embracing "good fear" fueled her journey of writing and designing her debut book. Drawing parallels between her years as a professional ballet dancer and the art of entertaining, Jessie shares how returning to fundamentals—whether in dance or hosting—allows creativity to flourish. She introduces her philosophy of "lush minimalism" and breaks down entertaining into achievable steps that both novice and experienced hosts can master. The episode explores how Jessie strategically expanded her support network to stay in her creative zone of genius while navigating the demands of cookbook production. Tune in for an beautiful discussion on transforming fear into fuel, balancing creativity with life's demands, and crafting unforgettable dining experiences that feel both elevated and effortless.

Connect with Jessie:

Get her book, Seasons Around the Table: amazon.com/dp/0764368362?tag=syty-20
On Instagram @straighttothehipsbaby
On Facebook
Her Substack
Her website: StraightToTheHipsBaby.com
On Pinterest

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Connect with Wendy:

Linkedin
Instagram: @wendy.harrop
Facebook: Phineas Wright House

Website: Phineas Wright House
PWH Farm Stays
PWH Curated Experience and Travel

Interested in being a guest on the show?
Send your pitch to [email protected]

Podcast Production By Shannon Warner of Resonant Collective
Want to start your own podcast? Let's chat!

If this episode resonated, follow Say YES to Yourself! and leave a  5-star review. It helps more women in midlife discover the tools, stories, and community that make saying YES not only possible, but powerful.

Fan Mail: Tell Wendy how you're saying yes to yourself!

Say YES to Ringing in the New Year in Paris & Versailles
December 27th - January 2nd
Click here for details!

Get all the details about the Space to Dream Solo Retreat here!

How do you say YES to yourself in a world full of noise, opinions, and outside pressure? In this episode, Wendy sits down with Trixy Castro to explore the transformative power of saying NO to external expectations in order to say a bigger YES to your own truth. Trixy shares her journey of stepping into her story, breaking free from perfectionism, and shifting the way she absorbs advice. Together, Wendy and Trixy dive into the importance of focusing on the good in ourselves, creating intentional daily practices for success, and celebrating the wins - no matter how small. Whether you're navigating a season of transition, trying to clear your path, or battling those “old tapes” of self-doubt, this conversation will empower you to tune out the noise and boldly claim the life you deserve.

Connect with Trixy:
TrixyCastro.com
On Instagram @trixycastro
On LinkedIn

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Connect with Wendy:

Linkedin
Instagram: @wendy.harrop
Facebook: Phineas Wright House

Website: Phineas Wright House
PWH Farm Stays
PWH Curated Experience and Travel

Interested in being a guest on the show?
Send your pitch to [email protected]

Podcast Production By Shannon Warner of Resonant Collective
Want to start your own podcast? Let's chat!

If this episode resonated, follow Say YES to Yourself! and leave a  5-star review. It helps more women in midlife discover the tools, stories, and community that make saying YES not only possible, but powerful.

Fan Mail: Tell Wendy how you're saying yes to yourself!

Get all the details about the Space to Dream Solo Retreat here!

Say YES to Ringing in the New Year in Paris & Versailles
December 27th - January 2nd
Click here for details!

Catch Part 1 with Liz McHutcheon here.

In this powerful follow-up episode, host Wendy reconnects with Liz McHutcheon after Liz’s transformative 500-mile pilgrimage on the Camino de Santiago and Wendy’s own month of renewal in France. Liz shares how each step along the Camino stripped away layers of people-pleasing, pushed her to sit with her emotions, and deepened her trust in the journey—both on the trail and in life. From the kindness of strangers to the logistical challenges of navigating vegan meals and unpredictable weather, Liz reflects on the profound lessons of the Camino: “There’s no right way to do the Camino.” Wendy offers her own insights on the power of pattern interrupts, and how stepping away from our daily routines gives us the fresh eyes and higher perspective needed to make lasting change. Whether you’re preparing for your own Camino, curious about life on the trail, or seeking inspiration to say YES to your next big adventure, this episode will remind you that transformation begins with presence, trust, and a willingness to let go.

Connect with Liz:
On Instagram @runningonventi
LizMcHutcheon.com 
Join Her Email List here.

Referenced in this Episode:
Boundary Boss by Terri Cole: amazon.com/Boundary-Boss-Essential-Guide-Finally/dp/1649630557
Squirrel's Nut Butter
Camino Ways

________________________________________________________________________________________

Connect with Wendy:

Linkedin
Instagram: @wendy.harrop
Facebook: Phineas Wright House

Website: Phineas Wright House
PWH Farm Stays
PWH Curated Experience and Travel

Interested in being a guest on the show?
Send your pitch to [email protected]

Podcast Production By Shannon Warner of Resonant Collective
Want to start your own podcast? Let's chat!

If this episode resonated, follow Say YES to Yourself! and leave a  5-star review. It helps more women in midlife discover the tools, stories, and community that make saying YES not only possible, but powerful.

Fan Mail: Tell Wendy how you're saying yes to yourself!

Say YES to Ringing in the New Year in Paris & Versailles
December 27th - January 2nd
Click here for details!

Catch Liz's previous episode here.

In this inspiring episode, Wendy reconnects with returning guest Liz McHutcheon just two days before Liz embarks on the transformative pilgrimage of El Camino de Santiago, a 500-mile walk across Northern Spain. Together, they dive into the art of practicing presence, even in the midst of planning for an expansive journey. Liz shares her preparation process—both physical and mental—detailing her daily walks, meditation practices, and intention to “pack light” in every sense. She opens up about her goal to strip away layers of inauthenticity and embrace her true self on this once-in-a-lifetime trek. With reflections on letting go of resistance, following life’s breadcrumbs, and creating space for growth, Liz and Wendy remind us that presence isn’t just a practice—it’s a way of living authentically and courageously. Tune in to explore how stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to deeper alignment and a brighter, more fearless path forward.

About Liz:
Liz is a teacher and those that know her call her “Coach Liz”. She is here to raise the consciousness of this world, to be a conduit to guiding women back to remembering who they are so they can live the life their soul came to live. She guides women to do the inner work to their own inner knowing. Every single thing in her life leading up to right here has allowed her to fully step into this purpose.

Liz is a certified Masters of Wisdom and Meditation Teacher, Certified Integrated Energy Alignment Practitioner, as well as a certified teacher of Nakshatra Birth Star Mantras.

Connect with Liz:
On Instagram @runningonventi
LizMcHutcheon.com
Join Her Email List here.

Referenced in this Episode:
Books:
Walking Home by Sonia Choquette
Waking Up in Paris by Sonia Choquette
Walking with Sam by Andrew McCarthy
A Course in Miracles

Movies:
The Way
Less than Zero

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Connect with Wendy:

Linkedin
Instagram: @wendy.harrop
Facebook: Phineas Wright House

Website: Phineas Wright House
PWH Farm Stays
PWH Curated Experience and Travel

Interested in being a guest on the show?
Send your pitch to [email protected]

Podcast Production By Shannon Warner of Resonant Collective
Want to start your own podcast? Let's chat!

If this episode resonated, follow Say YES to Yourself! and leave a  5-star review. It helps more women in midlife discover the tools, stories, and community that make saying YES not only possible, but powerful.

Fan Mail: Tell Wendy how you're saying yes to yourself!

Say YES to Ringing in the New Year in Paris & Versailles
December 27th - January 2nd
Click here for details!

This week, Wendy sits down with Diane Allen, a classically trained violinist turned keynote speaker, to explore the transformative power of flow and the life-changing impact of saying "yes" to yourself. Diane shares her inspiring journey of stepping away from her musical career to care for her mother and support her son, only to rediscover her passion and purpose through the power of flow. She unpacks the science behind flow states, how they enhance performance and fulfillment, and why they’re essential to living a purposeful life. Packed with actionable strategies, personal stories, and neuroscience-backed insights, this conversation will inspire you to stop resisting, start flowing, and embrace your potential.

About Diane:
International Speaker-Violinist-Author Diane Allen increases the meaning, joy, and fulfillment in one's work and life by accessing the flow state. In Flow: Unlock Your Genius, Love What You Do, Diane shows readers how to harness the power of flow. Years before neuroscientists discovered the positive impact of the flow state, Diane had already experienced its transformative power in her own career as a violinist. Diane was the concertmaster of the Central Oregon Symphony for 15 years, and taught violin for 28 years. It was her unique approach to getting into flow, on demand, that earned her a spot on the TEDxNaperville stage and features on TED, ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, and others. Today, Diane is known for her experiential Keynotes, Training, and Coaching programs that go Beyond Engagement™, featuring her three-step Flow Strategy™ system, which empowers people to get into their flow state, be in their genius, and love what they do.

Free Gift:  Flow Essentials: Tools to Unlock Your Best Self (Guide + Videos)

Diane’s Book, Flow: Unlock Your Genius, Love What You Do: amazon.com/Flow-Unlock-Your-Genius-Love/dp/1737855623?tag=syty-20

Connect with Diane:
On LinkedIn
On Facebook   
On Instagram @dianeallenspeaker
On YouTube

Referenced in this Episode:
Who Not How by Dan Sullivan: amazon.com/dp/B0B61XSW1M/?tag=syty-20

________________________________________________________________________________________

Connect with Wendy:

Linkedin
Instagram: @wendy.harrop
Facebook: Phineas Wright House

Website: Phineas Wright House
PWH Farm Stays
PWH Curated Experience and Travel

Interested in being a guest on the show?
Send your pitch to [email protected]

Podcast Production By Shannon Warner of Resonant Collective
Want to start your own podcast? Let's chat!

If this episode resonated, follow Say YES to Yourself! and leave a  5-star review. It helps more women in midlife discover the tools, stories, and community that make saying YES not only possible, but powerful.

Fan Mail: Tell Wendy how you're saying yes to yourself!

Say YES to Ringing in the New Year in Paris & Versailles
December 27th - January 2nd
Click here for details!

Parenting isn’t one-size-fits-all, and in this heartfelt and deeply insightful episode, Wendy and guest Katie K. May explore the beauty and complexity of raising kids as unique as we are. Wendy shares her journey to motherhood after 24 years of waiting, contrasting it with Katie’s surprise introduction to parenthood at 26. Together, they dive into the art of understanding and adapting to their children's individual needs—from raising introverts and ADHD brains to nurturing “fire feelers” who experience emotions with intense depth. Katie shares practical wisdom on fostering accurate self-esteem, setting meaningful limits over rigid rules, and helping our kids create a life that works for them rather than trying to fit into societal boxes. Along the way, they discuss the emotional journey of parenthood—grieving as our children grow and evolve, letting go of control, and building relationships rooted in mutual respect and understanding. This episode is packed with stories, actionable tips, and gentle reminders that it's never too late to reset your relationship with your child.

About Katie:
Katie K. May, LPC, owner and executive director of Creative Healing, is a national speaker and trainer specializing in therapy for teens with depression, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts. As one of only eleven Linehan board-certified Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) clinicians in Pennsylvania, she’s an expert in this gold-standard treatment for life-threatening behaviors. Katie is committed to helping teens feel accepted for who they are while teaching them skills to build a life they love.

Connect with Katie:
Her book, You're On Fire, It's Fine: Effective Strategies for Parenting Teens with Self-Destructive Behaviors: amazon.com/Youre-Fire-Its-Fine-Self-Destructive/dp/1544545584/?tag=syty-20
YoureOnFireItsFine.com
On Instagram @creative_healing & @katiekmay
On Facebook
On LinkedIn
On TikTok @teensupportcenter

Referenced in this Episode:
The Highly Sensitive Child by Elaine N. Aron: amazon.com/dp/0767908724?tag=syty-20

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Connect with Wendy:

Linkedin
Instagram: @wendy.harrop
Facebook: Phineas Wright House

Website: Phineas Wright House
PWH Farm Stays
PWH Curated Experience and Travel

Interested in being a guest on the show?
Send your pitch to [email protected]

Podcast Production By Shannon Warner of Resonant Collective
Want to start your own podcast? Let's chat!

If this episode resonated, follow Say YES to Yourself! and leave a  5-star review. It helps more women in midlife discover the tools, stories, and community that make saying YES not only possible, but powerful.

Fan Mail: Tell Wendy how you're saying yes to yourself!

Say YES to Ringing in the New Year in Paris & Versailles
December 27th - January 2nd
Click here for details!

In this episode, Wendy sits down with Becky Freemal for an inspiring conversation about the power of saying “yes” to what truly lights you up and moving boldly toward your dreams. Wendy shares her mantra, “I am only available for what delights me,” explaining how she uses this principle to guide her choices in life and work—including when to outsource tasks that don’t fuel her passion. Becky reveals her journey from 24 years in broadcast news to becoming a fractional CMO, driven by a commitment to impactful storytelling. Together, they explore the importance of authenticity in branding and business, emphasizing that "brands are meant to be lived," not confined to brand guides. From navigating self-worth and fair compensation to embracing storytelling as the heartbeat of human connection, this episode is packed with insights for entrepreneurs, creatives, and anyone ready to live more intentionally. Don't miss this conversation on building a life and career where every "yes" is aligned with what truly resonates. 

About Becky:
Becky Freemal is an author, speaker, Emmy award winning broadcast journalist-turned-fractional Chief Marketing Officer and founder of The Market Exec. She brings together the power of storytelling with the need for data-driven results into bold, innovative marketing strategies. She has a strong sense of purpose and has seen firsthand that when businesses find their purpose, it exposes their passion, their stories, and connects them to the very people they are meant to impact.

Connect with Becky:
Get her book, Brand Voice: People + Data Drive Results: amazon.com/dp/1962280489?tag=syty-20
On LinkedIn
BeckyFreemal.com

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Connect with Wendy:

Linkedin
Instagram: @wendy.harrop
Facebook: Phineas Wright House

Website: Phineas Wright House
PWH Farm Stays
PWH Curated Experience and Travel

Interested in being a guest on the show?
Send your pitch to [email protected]

Podcast Production By Shannon Warner of Resonant Collective
Want to start your own podcast? Let's chat!

If this episode resonated, follow Say YES to Yourself! and leave a  5-star review. It helps more women in midlife discover the tools, stories, and community that make saying YES not only possible, but powerful.

Fan Mail: Tell Wendy how you're saying yes to yourself!

Say YES to Ringing in the New Year in Paris & Versailles
December 27th - January 2nd
Click here for details!

In this episode, Wendy and her guest, Doni Belau, dive into the transformative power of giving yourself permission to pause, unplug, and reconnect with who you are beyond your roles. Doni shares how practices like Screen-Free Sundays and intentional “me time” allow her to release the pressure of constant productivity and find renewal. She reveals how stepping away from daily demands can re-energize you, strengthen your presence, and even shift how you show up in the world. Together, they explore the life-changing benefits of curated, women-only trips where everything is planned for you, allowing you to fully relax, make new connections, and discover new parts of yourself. This episode is filled with inspiring insights and practical tips for any woman ready to prioritize her well-being and explore life more freely.

About Doni:
Doni Belau founded women-only tour company, Girls' Guide to the World, in 2009 With a mission to empower women of all ages to explore the world, Girls’ Guide to the World now offer 60 tours to 40 countries. 

As an intrepid traveler who has explored over 80 countries, Doni has used her destination knowledge to curate a diverse portfolio of trips catering to a wide range of interests, from cultural immersion and culinary tours to active adventures and wellness retreats. Each itinerary is thoughtfully crafted to spark curiosity, foster authentic connection, and create lasting memories.

With over 15 years of experience in the travel industry, Doni’s in-depth understanding of destinations, travel trends, and evolving consumer desires ensures that each tour offered prioritizes connection, personal growth, and unforgettable experiences.  

Connect with Doni:
girlsguidetotheworld.com
On Instagram @gg2theworld
On Facebook
Girls' Guide Traveling Sisterhood Facebook Group

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Connect with Wendy:

Linkedin
Instagram: @wendy.harrop
Facebook: Phineas Wright House

Website: Phineas Wright House
PWH Farm Stays
PWH Curated Experience and Travel

Interested in being a guest on the show?
Send your pitch to [email protected]

Podcast Production By Shannon Warner of Resonant Collective
Want to start your own podcast? Let's chat!

If this episode resonated, follow Say YES to Yourself! and leave a  5-star review. It helps more women in midlife discover the tools, stories, and community that make saying YES not only possible, but powerful.