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Kira Dixon (Kazantsev), Miss America 2015, is a host and reporter for Golf Channel and NBC Sports. She primarily covers news on the PGA TOUR and recently returned from her trip to Paris after her debut as a Sports Desk reporter at the 2024 Olympics. 

In this episode with Kira, we discuss her beginnings in pageantry and how her Miss America journey started as a lighthearted, extracurricular activity with her mom, buying dresses off eBay and doing her own makeup. Her life took an exciting turn when she decided to compete for Miss New York. Against the odds, she captured the Miss America title, bringing home the crown to New York for the third year in a row. Kira shares her story about how a simple "yes," to playing golf as Miss America changed the trajectory of her career. 

We discuss what it means to be Miss America, and Kira opens up about the value of quiet confidence instead of aiming for perfection. She also talks about her experiences dealing with public scrutiny, and the lessons she learned as she transitioned into life outside of the pageant world. 10 years later, Kira now understands why a former Miss America told her it would take her 10 years to feel "normal" again. 

Read the NBC Sports article here: https://www.nbcsports.com/golf/news/yes-how-one-word-shaped-kira-k-dixons-golf-future-after-winning-miss-america-10-years-ago 

Connect with Kira:
Instagram: @kirakdixon
Tiktok: KiraKDixon
Inquiries: [email protected]

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In this episode we explore the oftentimes controversial topic of dating as a titleholder -- navigating a relationship during a year of changes, intense schedules, and outside opinions about your personal life. Why is dating while being a titleholder controversial? What’s up with the titleholder to marriage pipeline? Is there a no dating rule? What is it like from the partner's perspective?

From navigating public appearances with partners to addressing historical sexism in pageantry, we cover it all. Discover the evolving norms that now embrace engaged and married titleholders, and the crucial, often unseen support that partners provide. Learn about the importance of professionalism and etiquette, even as societal norms shift. 

Stay tuned to the end for an impromptu cameo from Raeanna's husband, AJ, and Lila's fiancé, Logan. Hear about Logan's perspective during Lila's year as Miss Wisconsin and AJ's thoughts on learning about the pageant world. 

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Instagram: @sashandsoul | @fearlesslyauthenticcoach | @raeannajohnson | @lila.szyryj
Website: www.raeannajohnson.com
Email: [email protected] | [email protected]

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How do you maintain balance while juggling life, school, family, extracurriculars, pageants, and finding time to rest and relax? Especially for high-achieving women, what happens when life feels like a never-ending juggling act? As we head into fall and for many of us, a new school year, shifting our priorities is inevitable. 

Today we're tackling the art, or should we say the sport, of balancing life and pageants. From personal experiences and realistic tips, we discuss how to navigate life's many demands -- Keep your eyes on the prize, broaden your base for stability, and sidestep distractions to focus on what truly matters.

From career changes to major relocations, we dive into firsthand accounts of how any changes in general can lead to stress and feeling a lack of balance. Achieving balance isn't just a buzzword; it’s multifaceted. Whether you're striving for personal growth or pageant success, understanding and prioritizing needs can make all the difference. We also dive into the pitfalls of comparison and self-judgment, emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance and surrounding yourself with compassionate people. 

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Website: www.raeannajohnson.com
Email: [email protected] | [email protected]

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We're here to share our top five most common mistakes we see women make in the pageant world after years as competitors and coaches. Whether that's preparation downfalls or falling into conspiracies, hear what we think distracts you most from your big picture goals when it comes to preparation and during your competition. 

Our focus is on actionable strategies that go beyond last-minute cramming and over-reliance on mock interviews. Similar to athletic training, find out how balanced preparation, self-awareness, and staying informed can set you up for success. Whether you're a newbie or a seasoned veteran in competition, don't miss out on what we wish we heard years ago. 

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Instagram: @sashandsoul | @fearlesslyauthenticcoach | @raeannajohnson | @lila.szyryj
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It's a journey, and sometimes a difficult one when you go from competing for years, becoming a titleholder, to leaving the pageant world and planning for the future. It can come with identity shifts, insecurities, and a lot of comparison.

We always see the titleholder in the spotlight, but what happens when her year is over and the crown is put away? Lila opens up about redefining success, navigating major life changes, and finding balance between personal and professional ambitions. We talk about the challenges of leaving behind a competitive world, managing comparison, and the importance of self-empowerment and taking control. We'll also cover the pitfalls of unknowingly seeking external validation and the joy that comes from focusing on how your life feels rather than how it looks.

We're proud to introduce a partnership with USA National Miss Wisconsin & Minnesota, a national pageant organization that provides scholarship opportunities, mentorship, confidence building and life-long skills in young women ages 4-25. We are excited to provide support and coaching opportunities for the newly crowned titleholders and all the girls competing in Wisconsin and Minnesota this year. Lila talks about her insights as a former teen titleholder and how you can register for the competition this October. 

USA National Miss:
Website: https://www.usanationalmiss.com
Email: [email protected] | [email protected]
Register for USA National Miss Wisconsin/Minnesota: https://www.usanationalmiss.com/wi-mn | [email protected]

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3 Keys to Winning the Crown: https://www.raeannajohnson.com/3keystowinningthecrown

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Instagram: @sashandsoul | @fearlesslyauthenticcoach | @raeannajohnson | @lila.szyryj
Website: www.raeannajohnson.com
Email: [email protected] | [email protected]

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There's one question we hear all too often in the pageant world: "Why would I need a coach?" Especially when you've already competed a few times, have some experience, and liked the outcome.

In this episode, we dissect the essential components of an effective coaching program. Learn how a good coach acts as a GPS, helping you navigate challenges efficiently and stay on track toward your goals. We also address common misconceptions new participants may have and emphasize the importance of choosing a coach who offers more than just motivational speeches but provides insight and practical, lifelong tools. Listen in to see how to evaluate a coach's credentials and teaching skills to ensure they fit your specific needs and budget.

We'll answer three main questions:
- What does a coach do?
- Why would I need a coach?
- How do I found a coach that works for me?

Pageantry is a sport, and like any sport, you invest in your success to be best prepared for a competition. We end by discussing the emotional and financial aspects of investing in a coaching program. Understand why it's essential to view coaching as an investment in personal growth and how coaches can help you seek sponsorships to support your pageant journey.

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3 Keys to Winning the Crown: https://www.raeannajohnson.com/3keystowinningthecrown

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Instagram: @sashandsoul | @fearlesslyauthenticcoach | @raeannajohnson | @lila.szyryj
Website: www.raeannajohnson.com
Email: [email protected] | [email protected]

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If you've ever felt stuck, wondering if you're the only one facing self-doubt and lack of motivation, you're not alone. On this episode of Sash and Soul, Raeanna opens up about those challenging, uninspiring moments in life when motivation seems to be lacking. We both share our personal battles with self-judgment and the constant tug-of-war between needing rest, feeling pressured to stay productive, and finding your own spark of inspiration.

Lila dives into the impact of societal pressures that shape our sense of worth. Most importantly, we're reflecting on embracing uncertainty and moving away from a productivity-obsessed culture -- comparing the hustle and bustle of American societal norms with more relaxed global cultures that prioritize leisure and spontaneity. 

Through personal experiences, we explore how to define success on your own terms, steer clear of harmful comparisons, and manage the load of stress and responsibilities without adding self-judgment to the mix. It's all about personal growth, the transformations that come with major life changes, how to find comfort in the unknown, and ultimately, what success "should" look like. 

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Website: www.raeannajohnson.com
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Catherine Liang, Miss California 2022, is a Golden State Warriors In-Arena Co-host, Brand Ambassador to International Fashion Brands, Advocate for AANHPI (Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islanders) and a Global Deals Financial Analyst. After graduating from the University of Southern California with a BA in International Relations Global Business, she worked as a private wealth analyst at Goldman Sachs focusing on estate and portfolio planning for ultra high net worth clients. In her spare time, she loves hiking across San Francisco and finding the best hidden food gems of the Bay Area. 

In this episode, Catherine shares with us her extensive advocacy work within the AANHPI community through civic engagement, resources for small businesses, and anti-hate initiatives. We also discuss her experience competing for Miss America, life post-Miss California, re-finding her identity, and the story behind her initiative, Champions of Courage.

We discuss the challenges of overcoming insecurities and the fear of judgment. Catherine opens up about the need for authenticity, the importance of stepping out of your comfort zone, and intentionally being the creator of your own life. 

Find Catherine here:
Instagram: @catherine_y_liang
TikTok: @catincalifornia
Email: [email protected]

Support the show

3 Keys to Winning the Crown: https://www.raeannajohnson.com/3keystowinningthecrown

Connect with us:
Instagram: @sashandsoul | @fearlesslyauthenticcoach | @raeannajohnson | @lila.szyryj
Website: www.raeannajohnson.com
Email: [email protected] | [email protected]

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Ready to master media literacy in the pageant world? Join us on Sash and Soul as Lila shares tangible tips when tackle the intricate landscape of media literacy, essential for any pageant contestant. Through her years of experience studying and working in the media, she's ready to bring essential information to the show and her clients.

We dive into the political landscape of recent events while leveraging Lila's experience in journalism and broadcasting. We unpack the nuances of media freedom and its critical role in handling political questions.

Experience how media literacy can shape your journey to leadership success. Reflecting on her transformative experiences in the UW-Madison Journalism School and dealing with the media portrayal of Asian Americans during the pandemic, Lila shares invaluable lessons and insights. From staying informed without losing mental peace to the impact of local versus national news, the lessons shared in this chapter are a must for anyone aspiring to lead with confidence.

Finally, we explore practical strategies for effective media consumption and interview preparation. Discover the importance of avoiding media echo chambers and the benefits of casual conversations over rehearsed mock interviews. Learn how to stay grounded and authentic while engaging with reliable news sources and fact-checking. 

If you found this helpful, check out our complimentary Fearlessly Authentic Coaching Consultation where we will discuss coaching plans individualized to your success. Fearlessly Authentic values focus on empowering you to overcome self-doubt, providing tailored guidance to excel in interviews, public speaking, and self-presentation. Transform your pageant preparation and leadership journey with confidence. 

Links to recommended news sources mentioned:
- https://apnews.com/
- https://www.theskimm.com/
- https://www.politifact.com/ 

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3 Keys to Winning the Crown: https://www.raeannajohnson.com/3keystowinningthecrown

Connect with us:
Instagram: @sashandsoul | @fearlesslyauthenticcoach | @raeannajohnson | @lila.szyryj
Website: www.raeannajohnson.com
Email: [email protected] | [email protected]

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Ever found yourself drowning in a sea of to-do lists while trying to take care of yourself physically? It could be a health scare, mental health crisis, or chronic illness that comes at the worst times, especially when we're preparing for competition. 

Here on Sash & Soul, Lila shares a little about her own health scares recently and candid experiences about the idea of staying productive through health crises.

Raeanna opens up about her personal journey through a family tragedy, emphasizing the need for self-care and empathy, not just for others, but for ourselves. We discuss how these personal challenges shape our approach to coaching, as we strive to be authentic and compassionate mentors. This episode illustrates the importance of prioritizing well-being over professional duties and treating ourselves with the same kindness we extend to close friends.

We explore the art of balancing productivity with self-care, and the relatable struggle of managing time-sensitive health needs. This isn’t just about ticking off tasks on a list. It’s about listening to our bodies and embracing ourselves amidst the chaos. Join us for a heartfelt conversation filled with actionable insights to help you navigate your own path to authenticity and balance.

Support the show

3 Keys to Winning the Crown: https://www.raeannajohnson.com/3keystowinningthecrown

Connect with us:
Instagram: @sashandsoul | @fearlesslyauthenticcoach | @raeannajohnson | @lila.szyryj
Website: www.raeannajohnson.com
Email: [email protected] | [email protected]