SolFul Connections

In this episode of SolFul Connections, Amanda sits down with Lexy, an extraordinary woman whose life is a study in contrasts and courage. Lexy is a weightlifter, strength trainer, artist, poet, and writer who is actively healing from a past that contains a fair share of trauma.

Lexy shares how she turned to strength training not just as a form of physical empowerment, but as a metaphor for reclaiming her inner power after feeling small and vulnerable as a child. Her journey is raw, real, and still unfolding. Her artwork offers an intimate glimpse into the psyche of someone who has faced darkness and continues to choose the light.

Unapologetically herself, Lexy defies stereotypes. Beneath her bold exterior is a gentle, poetic soul who writes with sensitivity and insight.

This conversation is about the beauty of contrast, the ongoing nature of healing, and the courage it takes to own your whole story—light, shadow, and everything in between.

To discover Lexy's poetry, check out her book: Amazon.com: A Bit of Madness is Key: 9798396495197: Moscinski, L. R.: BooksHer website is: A Breath of Courage - Aspire to be Truly Outstanding...Thinking of starting your own podcast, check out Amanda's affiliate link for a discount: Riverside: HD Podcast & Video Software | Free Recording & Editing

In this episode of SolFul Connections, Amanda sits down with Lexy, an extraordinary woman whose life is a study in contrasts and courage. Lexy is a weightlifter, strength trainer, artist, poet, and writer who is actively healing from a past that contains its share of trauma.

Lexi shares how she turned to strength training not just as a form of physical empowerment, but as a metaphor for reclaiming her inner power. Her journey is raw, real, and still unfolding. Her artwork offers an intimate glimpse into the psyche of someone who has faced darkness and continues to choose the light.

Lexy defies stereotypes. Beneath her bold exterior is a gentle, poetic soul who writes with sensitivity and insight. This conversation is about the beauty of contrast, the ongoing nature of healing, and the courage it takes to own your whole story—light, shadow, and everything in between.

For more about Lexy, visit: A Breath of Courage - Aspire to be Truly Outstanding...

To order her book: Amazon.com: A Bit of Madness is Key: 9798396495197: Moscinski, L. R.: BooksThinking of getting in on the fun and starting your own podcast? Check out Amanda's affiliate link with Riverside and get started today: Riverside: HD Podcast & Video Software | Free Recording & Editing

In this special birthday episode of the SolFul Connections podcast, Amanda connects with her lifelong best friend, Roseanne, to reflect on the magic, mess, and meaning of life at this point in the journey.

We talk about how we’ve changed, how we’ve stayed the same, what we’ve learned (sometimes the hard way), and how powerful it is to maintain a friendship that spans decades. From elementary school antics to grown-up grace (and everything in between), this episode is a celebration of evolving and thriving without losing sight of who we’ve always been.

Whether you’re navigating your own milestone, missing an old friend, or simply craving a real conversation about growing older and deeper, this one’s for you.

What happens when a single moment changes everything?

In this powerful episode, Amanda connects with Gregg Ward, a man who knows the lifelong ripple effects of tragedy. As a young man, Gregg was involved in a car accident that took the life of his girlfriend. It’s a story he shares publicly in his TEDx talk, Confessions of an Accidental Killer, and one that continues to shape how he lives, leads, and connects with others.

Now a respected leadership coach, speaker, author, journalist, and former actor and theater company founder, Gregg opens up about grief, guilt, healing, and the evolution of purpose. Together, we explore the weight of regret, the power of storytelling, and how even the most devastating moments can lead to meaningful change.

This is a conversation about reckoning, growth, and the courage to live a life of integrity and compassion.

Executive Business Coaching, Consultant Training, San Diego, CA

What if a visit to the dentist could feel less like a chore — and more like a ritual of self-care?

In this episode of SolFul Connections, holistic dentist Dr. Ekta Sem shares her innovative vision for transforming the dental experience. Drawing on ancient healing traditions, modern technology, and her own personal journey, she’s reimagining what it means to care for your smile, as well as your whole self.

We talk about:

• How anxiety shows up around dental visits — and how to shift the energy

• Her unique path to dentistry (hint: it didn’t start with teeth!)

• The role of mindfulness, Ayurveda, and intentional design in her new practice, Rituals

• Her own practices as a professional, mother, and woman juggling many roles

• What it means to make space for gentleness — even in unexpected places

If you’ve ever dreaded a dental appointment, this conversation might just change your mind (and your next visit).

☀️ SolFul Connections — Less small talk. More soul talk.

Dr. Ekta Sem (@ritualsdentalwellness) • Instagram photos and videos

In this soulful episode of SolFul Connections, photographer Kristen Kidd shares how her camera became a bridge, not just to art, but to meaning, memory, and deep emotional connection.

From capturing the chaos and beauty of family dynamics to preserving the tender bonds between people and their pets, Kristen’s journey is a reminder that behind every image is a story — and behind every story is a heartbeat.

Through her lens, Kristen invites us to reconsider how we define beauty, how we hold space for grief and joy, and how photography can help us see one another, and ourselves, more clearly.

This conversation invites you reflect on the sacred moments in your own life: the connections you’ve built, the memories you’re preserving (or avoiding), and the everyday beauty you may have forgotten how to notice. Whether you're a creator, a pet lover, or someone simply navigating life with an open heart, Kristen’s story will help you find your own story in the stillness between the clicks.

Boudoir Photographer | Headshot Photos | Lux Summit StudioThinking of making your own podcast? Check out Amanda's affiliate link for a discount: Riverside: HD Podcast & Video Software | Free Recording & Editing

In this powerful return episode, Dr. Jennifer Gardella, entrepreneur, educator, author, speaker, and social media consultant, joins SolFul Connections once again, but this time with a whole new layer to her story.

When Jen first appeared on SolFul Connections, she shared her courageous journey of surviving and escaping domestic violence. Since then, she’s continued to rise becoming a Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses alum, speaking for an NFL team, and making major strides in her business and advocacy work.

What sparked this latest conversation? A moment of "messiness"—the kind we often shy away from, but that can actually serve as a launching pad. During a tough season, I reminded Jen that chaos can be a sign you're about to level up. And she did. In this episode, we unpack how that messy middle often holds the most power.

We talk about:

• ​Jen’s recent milestones and personal evolution
• ​Her work with StartUp Bucks, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs
• ​Her unique approach to social media consulting and client partnerships
• ​The philosophies that guide her life and business
• ​How she cultivates joy—even in the midst of challenge
• ​What’s next on the horizon for her

Whether you’re in the thick of a transition or feeling like things are falling apart, this conversation is a heartfelt reminder that sometimes, that’s exactly where transformation begins.

🔗 Links & Resources:

• ​Dr. Jennifer Gardella’s Website
• ​STARTUP BUCKS
• ​Jen’s last appearance on SolFul Connections: [ListenHere ]#SolFulConnections #PodcastEpisode #JenniferGardella #Entrepreneurship #JoyInTheJourney #LevelUp #Resilience #WomenInBusiness #SocialMediaStrategy
• Jen mentions a book by The Possibility Coaches in the podcast. Interested? Here it is: Book - The Possibility Coaches | Life, Relationship and Business Coaches

Less small talk. More soul talk.
Welcome to SolFul Connections, where host Amanda Soler sits down with artists, dreamers, doers, healers — and everyday humans — for real conversations about what it means to be alive.

From life lessons to laughter, vulnerability to purpose, these are the stories that remind us we’re not alone.

This is where life’s mess meets its meaning.
Let’s connect.

Big things are happening at SolFul Connections!

In this short solo episode, I’m sharing a few important updates:

We’re officially launching Season 6 — and it’s all about leveling up.
Our season opener drops Wednesday, June 4, featuring the incredible Dr. Jennifer Gardella.
From now on, new episodes will be released every Wednesday instead of Tuesday — to align with how I create and give you the best content possible.
And most importantly, SolFul Connections is more than a podcast. In a world that can feel deeply disconnected, this space is here to remind you:
You belong.
Every version of being human has a place here.
Your story matters.

Whether you’ve been with me since the beginning or are just tuning in, thank you for being part of this soulful, safe space where stories connect us all.

Make sure to come back Wednesday, June 4 for the full season premiere!

In this special Replay episode of the SolFul Connections podcast, Christy Holland and Amanda explore the themes of personal transitions, the power of reinvention, and the importance of mindfulness and somatics in navigating life's challenges.

They discuss the significance of emotional awareness, the journey of entrepreneurship, and the need for support in personal growth. Christy shares her experiences with grief and vulnerability, emphasizing the importance of facing pain and building resilience. The conversation also touches on the creation of programs for middle schoolers, the role of inspiration and fun in life, and the ongoing journey of self-discovery.