In this episode of the Sorority Chat podcast, host Liz Toombs talks with Mandy Lautzenheiser, a house director for Alpha Delta Pi and a chapter advisor for Chi Omega at the University of South Carolina. They discuss the challenges and joys of working with college students, focusing on how to help students navigate challenging conversations and conflicts. Mandy shares her experience from both an advisor and house director perspective, offering valuable insights on listening, patience, and supporting students' mental health. They also touch on the role of life experience in guiding and mentoring students, and the importance of fostering a supportive Greek community. Join us for this insightful and engaging conversation!

📌 Connect with Mandy

📸 

🌐 

📌 Connect with Liz: 

📸 ⁠⁠Instagram: @pdrinteriors⁠

🌐  ⁠Website: PDR Interiors⁠⁠ 

• Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe to Sorority Chat on your favorite podcast platform!

If you loved this episode, leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review and share it with a friend in your sorority circle!

Sorority Chat is your go-to podcast for all things Greek life! Liz Toombs hosts this show for sorority leaders, house directors, alumni, and anyone who loves sisterhood and the traditions that make Greek life unique. From leadership insights to house renovations and recruitment tips, Sorority Chat brings you real conversations, thoughtful insights, and fun stories.

Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction to Sorority Chat Podcast01:09 Meet Mandy Lautzenheiser: House Director and Chapter Advisor02:19 Mandy's Journey to Becoming a House Director03:15 The Challenges and Rewards of Working with College Students06:38 Navigating Tough Conversations in Sorority Life08:23 The Importance of Mental Health and Self-Care12:52 The Role of Life Experience in Guiding Students15:26 The 'Why' Generation: Understanding Motivations17:21 Creating Safe Spaces for Conflict Resolution18:18 A Memorable Win: Coaching Through Conflict19:16 Convincing a Reluctant Participant20:05 Building Connections Over Coffee21:55 Generational Differences in House Directors22:55 Setting Expectations for Students27:46 Supporting Students Through Challenges29:17 The Importance of Listening31:30 Handling Conflict and Prioritizing Issues34:26 Learning from Students38:48 Liz's House Hot Takes39:48 Closing Remarks and Outro

In this episode of the Sorority Chat podcast, host Liz Toombs speaks with Allison Horseman, owner of Woodstock Lavender Co. Allison shares her journey from sorority life to becoming a lavender farmer in Pulaski County, Kentucky. They discuss the importance of community service and networking learned from their sorority experiences, the challenges and joys of running a lavender farm, and the impact of agritourism on their business. They also cover the significance of female collaboration over competition in business and the value of finding joy in one’s work. Join Liz and Allison for an insightful conversation about entrepreneurship, agriculture, and the power of community.

📌 Connect with Allison: 

📸 @woodstock_lavender_co

🌐 www.woodstocklavender.com

📌 Connect with Liz: 

📸 ⁠⁠Instagram: @pdrinteriors⁠

🌐  ⁠Website: PDR Interiors⁠⁠ 

Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe to Sorority Chat on your favorite podcast platform! If you loved this episode, leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review and share it with a friend in your sorority circle!

Sorority Chat is your go-to podcast for all things Greek life! Liz Toombs hosts this show for sorority leaders, house directors, alumni, and anyone who loves sisterhood and the traditions that make Greek life unique. From leadership insights to house renovations and recruitment tips, Sorority Chat brings you real conversations, thoughtful insights, and fun stories.

Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction to Sorority Chat01:07 Meet Allison Horseman: Keeper of the Lavender02:07 A Day in the Life of a Lavender Farmer04:55 The Journey to Starting a Lavender Farm12:05 The Importance of Community and Networking14:14 Supporting Other Lavender Farmers16:40 Unexpected Lessons and Future Plans24:37 Advice for Aspiring Agritourism Entrepreneurs32:08 Liz's House Hot Takes33:12 Closing Remarks and Call to Action

Join Liz Toombs in this episode of the Sorority Chat podcast, where she sits down with Meghan Rosenthal, a designer who made the bold leap from a side hustle to a full-blown creative career amidst a life full of passions. Meghan, a Tri Sigma alum from UNC Chapel Hill, shares her journey from studying journalism to launching her career as an artist in 2021. Discover how she rescued sorority composites, designed custom bookcases, and sold her first paintings on Instagram. Meghan also discusses overcoming imposter syndrome, setting your pride aside, and balancing family life and building a business.

📌 Connect with 

📸 instagram.com/meghan.rosenthal.art/

🌐 www.meghanrosenthal.com

📌 Connect with Liz: 

📸 ⁠⁠Instagram: @pdrinteriors⁠

🌐  ⁠Website: PDR Interiors⁠⁠ 

• Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe to Sorority Chat on your favorite podcast platform!

If you loved this episode, leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review and share it with a friend in your sorority circle!

Sorority Chat is your go-to podcast for all things Greek life! Liz Toombs hosts this show for sorority leaders, house directors, alumni, and anyone who loves sisterhood and the traditions that make Greek life unique. From leadership insights to house renovations and recruitment tips, Sorority Chat brings you real conversations, thoughtful insights, and fun stories.

Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction to Sorority Chat Podcast00:55 Meet Meghan Rosenthal: From Side Hustle to Creative Career02:12 Meghan's Sorority Memories and Art Journey03:52 The Birth of a Business: From Home Renovations to Art Collections11:37 Balancing Family Life and a Growing Art Business15:18 Influence of a Creative Upbringing20:03 Struggles and Imposter Syndrome21:57 The Comparison Trap23:30 Building a Supportive Community25:13 Collaborations and Licensing Deals31:05 Advice for Aspiring Creatives35:48 House Hot Take: Budget and Timeline36:53 Closing Remarks and Outro

In this episode of the Sorority Chat podcast, host Liz Toombs chats with Jodi Chmielewski, founder of Gourd and Porch. They discuss Jodi's entrepreneurial journey, her unique concierge pumpkin display business, and her passion for creativity. Jodi shares insights on starting and growing seasonal businesses, tips for keeping fall decor fresh, and embracing joy and balance in life.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about creativity, entrepreneurship, and seasonal fun!

About My Guest, Jodi Chmielewski of Gourd and Porch

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

📌 Connect with Liz: 

📸 ⁠⁠Instagram: @pdrinteriors⁠

🌐  ⁠Website: PDR Interiors⁠⁠ 

• Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe to Sorority Chat on your favorite podcast platform!

If you loved this episode, leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review and share it with a friend in your sorority circle!

Sorority Chat is your go-to podcast for all things Greek life! Liz Toombs hosts this show for sorority leaders, house directors, alumni, and anyone who loves sisterhood and the traditions that make Greek life unique. From leadership insights to house renovations and recruitment tips, Sorority Chat brings you real conversations, thoughtful insights, and fun stories.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction to Sorority Chat Podcast

01:11 Meet Jodi Chmielewski: Entrepreneurial Journey

02:40 Gourd and Porch: The Business Concept

03:58 Packages and Custom Designs

04:53 The Art of Pumpkin Decor

06:48 Entrepreneurial Spirit and Early Influences

09:43 Balancing Business and Joy

15:25 Finding Balance in Life

15:46 The Joy of Travel

16:57 Lessons from Delegation

20:17 Embracing Creativity and Improv

23:25 Fall Porch Decorating Tips

25:29 Future Plans for Gourd and Porch

30:07 Connecting with Jody and Final Thoughts

30:45 Liz's House Hot Takes

31:59 Closing Remarks and Outro

In this episode of the Sorority Chat podcast, host Liz Toombs welcomes Louisville-based artist and entrepreneur Maizie Clarke to discuss her journey as a creative entrepreneur. Known for her signature watercolor house portraits, Maizie has expanded her product line to include ceramics, scarves, and more. They explore how her sorority experience at Furman University shaped her career, the challenges and joys of scaling a business, and the importance of leveraging a strong network. Maizie also shares insights on finding inspiration, the decision-making process for product creation, and the invaluable lessons learned from working in corporate settings before starting her own business.

📌 Connect with Maizie:

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

🌐 https://maizieclarke.com/

📌 Connect with Liz: 

📸 ⁠⁠Instagram: @pdrinteriors⁠

🌐  ⁠Website: PDR Interiors⁠⁠ 

Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe to Sorority Chat on your favorite podcast platform! If you loved this episode, leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review and share it with a friend in your sorority circle!

Sorority Chat is your go-to podcast for all things Greek life! Liz Toombs hosts this show for sorority leaders, house directors, alumni, and anyone who loves sisterhood and the traditions that make Greek life unique. From leadership insights to house renovations and recruitment tips, Sorority Chat brings you real conversations, thoughtful insights, and fun stories.

Episode Highlights:00:00 Welcome to Sorority Chat00:55 Meet Maizie Clarke: Artist and Entrepreneur01:56 The Evolution of Maizie's Art03:33 Balancing Creativity and Business05:45 From Interior Design to Illustration10:46 Challenges of Growing a Personal Brand14:05 The Business Side of Creativity17:54 Expanding Product Lines and Collaborations21:50 The Art of Problem Solving in Design22:36 Silk Scarves: Fashion and Home Decor23:42 Finding Inspiration Beyond Your Field28:57 The Value of Sorority Experience33:44 Advice for Young Artists and Entrepreneurs40:34 House Hot Takes: Stairwell Design Tips41:38 Closing Remarks and How to Connect

In this episode of Sorority Chat, host Liz Toombs engages in a lively conversation with mother-daughter duo, Frances Freeman and Kim Hackney, founders of FOSTER. They discuss their journey from creating Ole Miss-inspired playing cards to expanding their business into licensed collegiate merchandise, covering 36 universities. The duo shares insights on licensing challenges, the importance of building community through in-person events, and their recent shift to direct-to-consumer sales. They also reveal upcoming product launches, including men's accessories and jute bags, and reflect on the rewarding aspects of producing unique, small-batch items. Please tune in to learn more about their entrepreneurial spirit and the creative process behind their distinctive collegiate products.

📌 Connect with FOSTER Collegiate:

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

🌐 https://fostercollegiate.com/

📌 Connect with Liz: 

📸 ⁠⁠Instagram: @pdrinteriors⁠

🌐  ⁠Website: PDR Interiors⁠⁠ 

• Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe to Sorority Chat on your favorite podcast platform!

If you loved this episode, leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review and share it with a friend in your sorority circle!

Sorority Chat is your go-to podcast for all things Greek life! Liz Toombs hosts this show for sorority leaders, house directors, alumni, and anyone who loves sisterhood and the traditions that make Greek life unique. From leadership insights to house renovations and recruitment tips, Sorority Chat brings you real conversations, thoughtful insights, and fun stories.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction to Sorority Chat Podcast

01:04 Meet the Guests: Founders of FOSTER

02:16 The Origin Story of FOSTER

04:52 Navigating Licensing and Expanding the Brand

11:02 Product Development and Market Expansion

13:11 The Mahjong Craze and Collegiate Spirit

17:50 Reflecting on Business Milestones

19:09 Building Community and Engagement

21:59 Overcoming Business Challenges

25:39 Exciting New Product Launches

28:14 The Creative Process Behind the Products

30:39 Special Edition Products and Customer Connection

32:09 Conclusion and Contact Information

32:54 House Hot Takes with Liz

34:03 Closing Remarks and Credits

In this episode of the Sorority Chat podcast, host Liz Toombs welcomes entrepreneur Kait Fontenot, the creative force behind Sorority and Sisterhood, Love Kate, and Molecular Provisions. Kait shares her journey from sorority life at Louisiana Tech to creating giftable, high-end sorority products that delight Greek life enthusiasts across generations. They discuss the importance of community, authentic marketing, and the challenges and rewards of running multiple businesses. Kait also reveals her sustainable business practices, expansion plans, and the innovative ideas that have brought her brand into the spotlight, including a feature on Good Morning America.

📌 Connect with Kait: 

The Sorority Life

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

🌐 https://sororityandsisterhood.com/

📌 Connect with Liz: 

📸 ⁠⁠Instagram: @pdrinteriors⁠

🌐  ⁠Website: PDR Interiors⁠⁠ 

Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe to Sorority Chat on your favorite podcast platform! If you loved this episode, leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review and share it with a friend in your sorority circle!

Sorority Chat is your go-to podcast for all things Greek life! Liz Toombs hosts this show for sorority leaders, house directors, alumni, and anyone who loves sisterhood and the traditions that make Greek life unique. From leadership insights to house renovations and recruitment tips, Sorority Chat brings you real conversations, thoughtful insights, and fun stories.

Key Episode Moments:00:00 Introduction to Sorority Chat Podcast00:58 Meet Kait Fontenot: Entrepreneurial Journey01:56 From Sorority Life to Business Success03:02 The Birth of Sorority and Sisterhood Brand07:50 The Power of Partnership10:57 Good Morning America Feature12:48 Expanding the Product Line13:56 Custom Designs and Future Plans15:28 Creative Wheelhouse and Team Dynamics16:28 Social Media Strategy and Community Building18:10 Campus Reps Program20:24 Balancing Multiple Ventures23:49 Future Plans and Exciting Horizons24:58 Lessons from Sorority Life28:22 Connecting with Kait29:33 Liz's House Hot Takes30:38 Podcast Conclusion and Call to Action

Show Notes: Sorority Chat S2E35

In this episode of Sorority Chat, host Liz Toombs is joined by Amy Chenevert, founder of Ames Layne, Chi Omega alum, and true innovator in the world of game-day fashion. Liz introduces Amy as a “total force in the game-day fashion world,” highlighting her journey from LSU sorority life to building a national brand that’s changed how women show their school spirit.

About Amy Chenevert:
Amy’s story begins at LSU, where her Chi Omega experience shaped her values, friendships, and professional path. After a successful career in fashion merchandising—including roles at Neiman Marcus and Laundry by Shelli Segal—Amy had her “lightbulb moment” in the Superdome, realizing the need for stylish, functional game day accessories for women. She launched Ames Layne with the original spirit strap, and her product line now includes the Game Day Fan, Bid Day Fan, and innovative clear bags. Amy’s passion for design, Southern roots, and commitment to sisterhood shine through in every story she shares.

Episode Highlights & Timestamps:

• 00:00 – Amy’s whirlwind Kate Spade interview and how it inspired her brand’s style
• 00:59 – Liz introduces Amy: from Chi Omega at LSU to founder of Ames Layne
• 02:50 – The Superdome “aha” moment: why Amy started her business
• 06:12 – Networking, finding the right factory, and launching her first product
• 10:57 – How sorority life shaped Amy’s career and opened doors in fashion
• 14:17 – Product innovation: Game Day Fan, Bid Day Fan, and more
• 17:39 – The scarf chain, clear bag, and Amy’s design process
• 20:07 – Building community, supporting fundraisers, and uniting fans
• 21:50 – Where to find Amy’s products and connect online
• 23:30 – Liz’s House Hot Takes: pro tips for sorority house design
• 24:41 – Closing thoughts and how to support the show

Memorable Quotes:

• “This is not a trend, not a fad, not going away. It’s only getting bigger.” – Amy
• “Sisterhood is your bond for forever—and it can open doors you never expected.” – Amy

Whether you’re a current member, alum, or love a great story about turning passion into a powerhouse brand, this episode is packed with inspiration, practical advice, and plenty of laughs.

Connect with Amy:
Instagram: @ameslayne
Shop: www.ameslayne.com

📌 Connect with Liz: 

📸 ⁠⁠Instagram: @pdrinteriors⁠

🌐  ⁠Website: PDR Interiors⁠⁠ 

Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe to Sorority Chat on your favorite podcast platform! If you loved this episode, leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review and share it with a friend in your sorority circle!

Sorority Chat is your go-to podcast for all things Greek life! Liz Toombs hosts this show for sorority leaders, house directors, alumni, and anyone who loves sisterhood and the traditions that make Greek life unique. From leadership insights to house renovations and recruitment tips, Sorority Chat brings you real conversations, thoughtful insights, and fun stories.

In this insightful episode of the Sorority Chat podcast, host Liz Toombs, a designer and sorority alum, welcomes Heather Adams, founder and CEO of Choice Media and Communications, and a long-time recruitment advisor for AO Pi across multiple universities. Heather shares her journey with AO Pi, emphasizing the lifelong friendships and skills gained through sorority life. She passionately discusses the importance of teaching social and leadership skills during recruitment, drawing from her personal and professional experiences. Liz and Heather also delve into the nuances of sorority recruitment across different campuses and the evolving role of social media. Heather offers valuable advice on building confidence and authenticity in sorority life and beyond, highlighting her dedication to mentoring young women and fostering supportive environments.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation on the impact of sorority life and the power of female mentorship.

📌About today's guest, Heather Adams:

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

🌐 ⁠https://choicemediacommunications.com/about-heather

📌 Connect with Liz: 

📸 ⁠⁠Instagram: @pdrinteriors⁠

🌐  ⁠Website: PDR Interiors⁠⁠ 

Don’t miss an episode! Subscribe to Sorority Chat on your favorite podcast platform! If you loved this episode, leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review and share it with a friend in your sorority circle!

Sorority Chat is your go-to podcast for all things Greek life! Liz Toombs hosts this show for sorority leaders, house directors, alumni, and anyone who loves sisterhood and the traditions that make Greek life unique. From leadership insights to house renovations and recruitment tips, Sorority Chat brings you real conversations, thoughtful insights, and fun stories.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Introduction to Sorority Chat00:58 Meet Heather Adams: Recruitment Advisor and CEO01:46 Heather's Journey with AO Pi04:37 The Impact of Recruitment on Life Skills07:26 Empowering Women Through Confidence11:04 Navigating Social Media and Authenticity14:16 Heather's Professional Journey and Mentorship18:26 Balancing Work and Personal Life21:37 Upcoming Projects and Final Thoughts34:29 Liz's House Hot Takes35:28 Closing Remarks and Call to Action

Join host Liz Toombs on the Sorority Chat podcast as she welcomes Dani Weatherford, JD, the CEO of the National Panhellenic Conference, for an insightful discussion on the evolution of sorority recruitment. They dive into the generational shifts affecting recruitment, how COVID-19 has impacted students' need for community, and the importance of making the recruitment process more inclusive and welcoming. Discover the latest research findings, successful marketing strategies, and potential changes to future recruitment that cater to Gen Z women. Don't miss this engaging conversation and learn how sororities can continue to provide a sense of belonging in today's changing world.

📌 Connect with Dani's Organizations: 

The Sorority Life

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

🌐 https://thesororitylife.com/

National Panhellenic Conference

📸 https://www.instagram.com/npcwomen/

🌐 https://npcwomen.org/

📌 Connect with Liz: 

📸 ⁠⁠Instagram: @pdrinteriors⁠

🌐  ⁠Website: PDR Interiors⁠⁠ 

Don't miss an episode! Subscribe to Sorority Chat on your favorite podcast platform!

If you loved this episode, leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ review and share it with a friend in your sorority circle!

Sorority Chat is your go-to podcast for all things Greek life! Liz Toombs hosts this show for sorority leaders, house directors, alumni, and anyone who loves sisterhood and the traditions that make Greek life unique. From leadership insights to house renovations and recruitment tips, Sorority Chat brings you real conversations, thoughtful insights, and fun stories.

Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction to Sorority Chat

00:50 Meet Dani Weatherford, JD: CEO of NPC

01:22 Challenges and Changes in Sorority Recruitment

02:11 Impact of COVID-19 on Sorority Life

04:54 Adapting Recruitment for Gen Z

11:36 Marketing Strategies for Sororities

19:32 Enrollment Trends and Future Outlook

23:02 The Evolution of Greek Life

25:02 Future of Sorority Recruitment

28:24 Closing Thoughts and Resources

33:00 Liz's House Hot Takes

33:53 Final Remarks and Outro