The Grateful Brand

In this powerful episode, we sit down with filmmaker and creative entrepreneur Luis Sanchez, who shares his inspiring journey from a music career to a thriving life in cinematography and storytelling. This conversation dives deep into overcoming limiting beliefs, building trust, and finding purpose through faith, family, and creativity.

Luis opens up about what it really took to shift careers and take a leap into entrepreneurship—facing fear, burnout, and uncertainty along the way. He explains how reframing limiting beliefs changed not only the trajectory of his career, but also impacted his family for generations to come.

You’ll hear firsthand how faith, community, and personal growth helped him stay grounded through the pressures of building a business while raising a family. From capturing local stories in Middle Georgia to launching a unique film project that explores deep human themes, Lewis reminds us that trusting the process is a daily decision.

If you’re a creative, entrepreneur, or anyone navigating a transition, this episode will encourage you to stay consistent, push past fear, and recognize your worth beyond performance.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

• Lewis transitioned from music to filmmaking through grit, vision, and faith.
• Entrepreneurship is a leap that requires courage, trust, and patience.
• Limiting beliefs can hold generations back—changing your mindset changes your legacy.
• Creativity often returns when you reconnect with your “why.”
• Building community and strong networks has opened doors in his career.
• Family is central to both his work and motivation.
• Burnout is real—but so is the power of rest and reflection.
• Trusting others and learning to delegate has been key to growth.
• His upcoming film project explores themes of faith, struggle, and healing.

💡 Notable Quotes:

• “Everything is going to take a process.”
• “I work best under pressure.”
• “I want to build bridges and help people.”

📍 Chapters:

00:00 – Introduction and Meeting Lewis

05:18 – From Musician to Filmmaker

08:35 – Taking the Leap and Trusting the Process

13:14 – Choosing Middle Georgia and Slowing Down

17:29 – Creativity, Procrastination, and Finding Motivation

23:46 – Overcoming Trust Issues and Enjoying the Moment

27:16 – Balancing Family and Business

30:28 – The Joy of Seeing Creativity in the Next Generation

32:20 – Reflecting on the Past and Shaping the Future

36:34 – Stay Focused, Consistent, and Believe in Yourself

CONTACT LUIS:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560561990962

https://www.instagram.com/famjammers/

In this episode of The Grateful Brand podcast, host Sarah Frances sits down with Sophia Smith, the inspiring founder of Little Light Coffee Co. and Milspo Walk, to explore her journey from corporate life to entrepreneurship. Sophia shares how her love for coffee and community-building drove her to leave a stable career and start something of her own.

Together, Sarah Frances and Sophia dive into the unique challenges of launching a business as a military spouse and the importance of resilience, hustle, and a strong support system. They discuss the power of fostering creativity in the workplace, lessons learned from leadership, and the value of creating a community-focused business.

This conversation is packed with insights on building trust within a team, navigating corporate culture while pursuing personal goals, and setting a positive example for future generations. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a leader, or someone striving to create meaningful connections, this episode will leave you inspired and ready to take the next step toward your goals.

Key Takeaways:

• Sophia’s journey from corporate life to entrepreneurship shows the importance of passion and persistence.
• Building community is essential to business success, both with customers and within your team.
• Milspo Walk was created to support military spouses and foster resilience.
• Leadership requires honesty, directness, and the ability to take responsibility for both successes and failures.
• Employees can become lifelong brand ambassadors when you foster a supportive environment.
• Empowering creativity in the workplace can lead to better outcomes and employee satisfaction.
• Networking and personal development are essential for growth, both in business and life.
• “You can quit a business, but not on a bad day.”

Episode Highlights:

• Sophia’s Leap into Entrepreneurship: How she transitioned from a corporate career to creating Little Light Coffee Co..
• Milspo Walk: Sophia’s initiative to support and empower military spouses.
• Building a Team Culture: The significance of trust, community, and fostering pride in your work.
• Lessons from Leadership: The importance of being honest, supporting creativity, and setting an example.
• The Power of Branding: How storytelling can create meaningful connections with customers.

Memorable Quotes:

• “You have to build that trust.”
• “You can quit a business, but not on a bad day.”
• “Creating a community, not just a job, is what makes a business truly thrive.”

Discover more about Sophia’s work and shop at Little Light Coffee Co..

More info on Milspo Walk

For more resources on strategic branding and web design visit Sarah Frances Brand Co..

Join us for this inspiring conversation and learn how to build a business and a community that truly makes an impact!

In this episode of The Grateful Brand, we’re joined by T.R. Matson, a military veteran, author, and advocate for gratitude and resilience. T.R. shares his unique perspectives on overcoming challenges, creating meaningful stories, and balancing the demands of family, work, and personal growth.

T.R. dives deep into his experiences in the military, emphasizing the importance of the E2 community and the often-overlooked role of support aircraft in aviation. He reflects on his journey as an author, detailing his writing process and the dedication he puts into crafting impactful books that respect his readers’ time.

We also explore the concepts of obsession and focus—how immersing yourself in a goal can help you form habits and achieve success. T.R. discusses the value of surrounding yourself with a trusted inner circle and the importance of letting go of people who don’t support your growth.

Key Takeaways:

✔ Resilience is Key: Never give up and always get back up, no matter the challenges.

✔ Meaningful Work Matters: Dedicate yourself to creating impactful stories that value readers’ time.

✔ Gratitude and Overcoming Obstacles: Recognize life’s challenges as opportunities for growth.

✔ The E2 Community’s Role: Highlighting the critical support roles in aviation.

✔ Obsession Fuels Success: Focus and obsession are essential for building habits and achieving goals.

✔ Your Inner Circle: Keep trusted individuals close and let go of those who hinder your growth.

Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction and Background
• 02:52 Writing Process and Shifting Storylines
• 09:32 Balancing Family, Work, and Writing
• 11:19 Gratitude for Life and Overcoming Obstacles
• 20:51 The Importance of the E2 Community
• 28:29 The Need for Obsession and Focus
• 56:23 A Book Recommendation for a Different Perspective

Sound Bites: 🗨️ "You have to become obsessed if you're going to be successful in any portion of your goals." 🗨️ "I think my humble roots go back to being an E2 guy, working with a crew and understanding the role we had." 🗨️ "I don't want to turn into that. I would rather have a few books out there in my whole life that are great."

Connect with T.R. Matson: 🌐 Visit T.R. Matson’s website to learn more about him and his work: www.trmatson.com 📚 Books by T.R. Matson: Purchase his impactful and inspiring books directly on his website.

Book Recommendation: T.R. suggests reading C.W. Lemoyne's books for a refreshing perspective and a much-needed distraction.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation that highlights resilience, gratitude, and the power of meaningful work. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review! ⭐

In this episode, we sit down with Kelsey Wiseman, the creative force behind The Crafted Makerie, to explore her inspiring journey from teaching to full-time entrepreneurship in the jewelry and accessories industry.

Key Highlights:

• Transition from Teaching to Entrepreneurship: Kelsey shares her experience of starting The Crafted Makerie as a side hustle while teaching and the pivotal moment that led her to pursue her passion full-time.
• Navigating Creative Challenges: She discusses the importance of allowing creativity to flow naturally without self-imposed pressure, leading to more authentic and innovative designs.
• Supportive Partnerships: Kelsey emphasizes the role of her husband, also an entrepreneur, in providing mutual support and understanding, contributing to their unique work-life balance.
• Evolution of Studio Space: From working at her kitchen table to establishing a dedicated studio, Kelsey highlights how having a separate creative space has enhanced her productivity and inspiration.
• Setting Boundaries to Prevent Burnout: She talks about the necessity of defining clear boundaries between work and personal life to maintain mental and physical well-being.
• Defining Personal Success: Kelsey reflects on the importance of setting personal success metrics, steering clear of the hustle culture, and focusing on sustainable growth.
• Financial Management Insights: She recommends the book 'Profit First' for effective financial management, sharing how it has influenced her approach to business finances.

Connect with Kelsey and The Crafted Makerie:

• Website: thecraftedmakerie.com
• Instagram: @thecraftedmakerie

Chapters:

• 00:00 – Introduction and Background
• 02:02 – Kelsey's Journey as an Entrepreneur
• 06:28 – Transitioning from Teaching to Entrepreneurship
• 12:14 – The Challenges and Rewards of Being an Entrepreneur
• 21:16 – The Crafted Makerie: Name and Studio Space
• 30:57 – Progression of Kelsey's Studio Space
• 34:53 – Buying a House and Creating a Studio Space
• 39:39 – Setting Boundaries and Avoiding Burnout
• 45:13 – Defining Success on Your Own Terms
• 53:33 – Managing Finances for Business Growth

Join us for an insightful conversation with Kelsey Wiseman as she shares valuable lessons on creativity, entrepreneurship, and personal growth.

In this engaging episode, life coach and entrepreneur Kris Rocha shares her journey of building a coaching business focused on empowering women to reclaim their identities. Through her story, Kris uncovers insights that every small business owner and entrepreneur can apply to grow a purposeful business while maintaining work-life balance.

Key Topics and Takeaways:

• Coaching vs. Therapy for Business Growth: Kris highlights how coaching, unlike therapy, keeps the focus on future goals and action-oriented growth—a perspective that entrepreneurs can benefit from in building their own paths forward.
• Harnessing the Power of Community: A strong support network is invaluable for personal and professional resilience. Kris discusses how tapping into communities of like-minded entrepreneurs, mentors, and industry networks fosters both confidence and growth.
• The Importance of Identity and Boundaries: Knowing and articulating your strengths is foundational for any entrepreneur. Kris shares strategies for setting boundaries that allow you to stay aligned with your vision, avoid burnout, and balance work with personal time.
• Transitioning from Surviving to Thriving: Building a successful business isn’t just about surviving tough times but also about thriving by creating a meaningful impact. Kris shares ways to go beyond the basics and bring purpose to your work.
• Investing in Yourself and Your Business: Kris advocates for mentorship, strategic self-investment, and hiring experts to help accelerate growth. Investing in your skills and team can create the groundwork for sustainable success.
• Client Referrals and Public Speaking: For a coaching business, referrals and networking are essential for growth. Kris explains how speaking engagements and podcasts have broadened her reach, and how to leverage similar opportunities.
• Balancing Self-Care and Delegation: As an entrepreneur, prioritizing mental health and effective delegation are essential for sustained growth. Kris covers how these practices have strengthened her business and encourages entrepreneurs to avoid burnout.

Memorable Quotes:

• "I want to help you thrive." - Kris Rocha
• "No opportunity is too small." - Kris Rocha

Chapters:

• 00:00 - Introduction and Background
• 02:15 - Kris Rocha’s Role as a Transformation Coach
• 04:01 - Building a Strong Identity for Business Growth
• 05:20 - Leveraging Your Gifts and Talents
• 08:47 - Shifting from Survival to Growth Mode
• 12:26 - Launching Grateful Your Business
• 15:48 - Embracing Self-Investment and Development
• 18:23 - Growing Client Base through Speaking and Podcasts
• 22:38 - Maintaining Boundaries and Sanity
• 31:54 - Work-Life Balance and Effective Delegation
• 43:47 - Building a Support System and Networking
• 49:31 - Learning from Challenges and Embracing Failures
• 54:48 - Recommended Reading for Entrepreneurs

In this episode of The Grateful Brand, Sarah Frances interviews Allison Wilson, co-founder of Adelisa and Co., a women-owned business that empowers artisans in Nicaragua by creating beautiful handmade leather products. Allison shares the inspiring journey of how the business started as a hobby between friends and transformed into a mission-driven brand dedicated to artisan empowerment, sustainable practices, and personal development.

The conversation dives deep into the challenges of running a remote team, balancing family life with entrepreneurship, and the importance of having a strong 'why' to navigate the difficulties that come with business growth. Allison highlights the role of marketing strategies, including influencer collaborations, that have helped Adelisa and Co. expand its reach. She also discusses the lessons she’s learned over the past eight years, including discovering new skills through business and the personal growth that comes with entrepreneurship.

This episode is packed with actionable insights for women in business, entrepreneurs, and those interested in building sustainable businesses that make a social impact.

Takeaways:

• Building a dedicated team was essential for growth and for empowering artisans.
• Managing a remote team and supply chain issues are ongoing challenges.
• Having a clear 'why' helps to overcome difficulties in entrepreneurship.
• Personal development and learning new skills are critical to long-term business success.
• Collaborating with influencers has played a major role in the brand’s marketing success.

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction and Business Name

01:14 - Starting as a Hobby and the Importance of Friendship

02:48 - The Aim and Mission of Adelisa and Co.

03:55 - The Team and Impact on the Community

07:05 - Working with a Team in Another Country

10:03 - Challenges of Working with a Team in Another Country

12:36 - Overcoming Snags and Challenges in the Early Days

14:56 - The Importance of a Strong Why and Positive Mindset

17:18 - Lessons Learned in Eight Years of Business

20:10 - Discovering New Skills and Personal Growth

21:14 - The Personal Growth of Running a Business

22:39 - Balancing Family Life and Business

26:59 - The Role of Collaborations and Influencers

29:14 - Setting Marketing Goals for Success

30:55 - Creating Sustainable Jobs and Making a Social Impact

Links to Learn More:

• Learn more about Allison Wilson and Adelisa and Co.: Website: adelisaandco.com Instagram: @adelisaandco
• Podcast Recommendation: The Product Boss Podcast
• Book Recommendation: The E-Myth by Michael E. Gerber Check it out: The E-Myth on Amazon

Tune in to learn from Allison’s experience on balancing family life with entrepreneurship, marketing strategies that work, and the importance of building a sustainable business with a strong purpose.

In this episode, we dive into the inspiring story of Tammy, a dedicated health and wellness professional, as she shares her journey of helping others and discovering her true purpose. She opens up about her experiences with faith, obedience, and allowing God to guide her path, emphasizing the value of being open to divine direction. Tammy speaks about how finding her unique brand required deep self-reflection and surrounding herself with authentic people who uplift and support her.

Tammy shares her strategies for prioritizing rest, creating a structured schedule, and making space for personal well-being to ensure that she can show up fully for herself, her clients, and her business.

Throughout the episode, Tammy’s warmth and wisdom shine through, offering encouragement and practical advice for those who feel called to step out in faith and pursue their purpose. Her message is clear: don’t be afraid of discomfort, embrace your community, prioritize self-care, and let faith guide your journey.

Key Takeaways:

• Obedience and faith are essential in discovering and fulfilling your purpose.
• Self-reflection and authenticity are crucial in defining your unique brand.
• Surround yourself with people who encourage and support you authentically.
• Don’t be afraid of discomfort; it often leads to transformation.
• Finding a community within your field is invaluable for shared growth and support.
• Prioritize self-care and set clear boundaries to prevent burnout.
• Create a structured schedule that includes breaks, rest, and time for personal well-being.
• Understanding birth order can help you relate to and serve others more effectively.
• Explore books on leadership and personal development to grow as an entrepreneur.
• Devotions and resources aligned with your faith can provide spiritual nourishment.
• Make intentional space for God in your schedule and decisions.

Sound Bites:

• "Failure is not final. Don't give up and be encouraged. Keep pushing."
• "Your people will find you and you will find your people."
• "You can’t show up well for your clients or your employees if you aren’t showing up well for yourself first."
• "Please, take the wisdom. Don’t take the harder road."

Chapters:

• 00:00 — Introduction and Background
• 03:07 — Finding Purpose Through Obedience and Faith
• 10:08 — Discovering Your Unique Brand
• 16:54 — The Power of Authentic Relationships
• 24:07 — Embracing Discomfort for Growth
• 32:00 — Building a Supportive Community
• 38:43 — The Importance of Self-Care and Boundaries
• 57:07 — Creating a Structured Schedule
• 59:20 — Understanding Birth Order
• 01:09:28 — Books for Personal Growth
• 01:13:07 — Finding Spiritual Nourishment
• 01:16:46 — Making Space for God

Connect and Learn More:

• Sarah Frances Brand Co: https://www.sfbrandco.com/
• Book Yala Michelle: https://yalamichellellc.glossgenius.com/

In this episode, Elena, founder of eMarieSpeaks, shares her powerful journey of healing and restoration through spoken word. Initially, writing was her escape from trauma, a way to create beauty from pain. However, after being discouraged by a counselor to focus only on positive poems, she stopped writing for years. It wasn't until rediscovering her gift through a relationship that she realized her words were meant for spoken word. Today, Elena uses her gift to inspire others, sharing books and prayers on topics like healing and restoration.

E.Marie emphasizes the importance of boundaries as an entrepreneur, balancing work and family life. She discusses the challenges of creating structure while prioritizing loved ones. E.Marie also highlights the pursuit of happiness and warns against chasing society’s definition of success, advocating for authenticity and a deep connection to one’s true self to find fulfillment.

Her work now focuses on helping people uncover the root causes of their struggles and guiding them toward healing. E.Marie also introduces her event, Transformers Rise of the Renewed, a gathering centered around transformation, personal growth, and the practical application of spiritual teachings. Attendees are equipped with tools and strategies for building positive habits and living in alignment with their purpose.

Key Takeaways:

• Writing can be a tool for healing and overcoming trauma.
• Surrounding yourself with a supportive community is essential for growth.
• Authenticity and transparency are key in both life and business.
• Setting boundaries is crucial for maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
• Finding and embracing your purpose leads to sustainable fulfillment.
• Transformers Rise of the Renewed is a transformational event focused on equipping individuals with tools for growth.
• The practical application of spiritual teachings is essential for long-lasting change.

Memorable Quotes:

• "When people have been through trauma, they find music, they find writing, they find drawing."
• "The greatest gift I gave myself was the gift of boundaries."
• "Transformers Rise of the Renewed is a transformational experience."
• "Every day that you get up and do the same thing you did on Sunday, a layer of everything that got done at the altar comes back."

Chapters:

00:00 – Introduction and Elena's Background

07:51 – The Power of Authenticity and Acceptance

12:54 – Impacting Others Through Small Acts of Kindness

24:29 – Building a Supportive Tribe and Embracing Authenticity

30:07 – Chasing Authenticity and Defining Success

35:10 – The Pursuit of Happiness and Society’s Definition of Success

39:30 – Uncovering Root Causes and Finding Healing

49:06 – Transformers Rise of the Renewed: A Transformational Experience

55:00 – Embracing Your Purpose and Operating in Your Gifts

59:14 – Building Resiliency: More Important Than Permanent Healing

01:09:37 – Anything Not Used for Its Purpose Dies

Keywords: spoken word, healing, restoration, trauma, writing, boundaries, entrepreneurship, family, happiness, authenticity, root causes, personal growth, spiritual teachings, transformation, faith, purpose, gifts, practical application

Connect with Elena: http://emariespks.com

Help Professionals Overcome Tech Overwhelm with Beverly Jessup

In this episode, Sarah interviews Beverly Jessup, founder of Maven Business Haven. Beverly, a seasoned speech therapist, helps therapists and coaches build successful online businesses by alleviating their tech challenges. They discuss Beverly's background, including her experiences working with clients both in the UK and internationally, her journey from the NHS to entrepreneurship, and the importance of valuing one’s services. Beverly shares insights about overcoming imposter syndrome, the importance of balancing family and work, and the resources and systems she uses to keep her business thriving. The conversation also highlights the personal impacts of entrepreneurship on family life and the benefits of community and mentorship for professional growth.

Key takeaways:

• Embracing technology is essential for long-term success in media.
• Mentorship helps bridge the gap between seasoned professionals and newcomers.
• Beverly Jessup's techniques for tech-savvy therapy help reduce stress and improve productivity.
• Overcoming tech overwhelm can lead to more creative and effective media production.
• Investing in tech-savvy therapy is an investment in your business's future.

Timestamps:

01:21 Bev's Background and Mission

01:59 Challenges Faced by Therapists and Coaches

04:23 The Importance of Valuing Your Services

06:04 Bev's Journey from NHS to Private Practice

10:33 Transition to Online Therapy

23:50 Balancing Family and Entrepreneurship

27:57 Balancing Family and Entrepreneurship

28:23 Homeschooling and Flexibility

29:27 Children's Achievements and Confidence

34:24 The Power of Community and Mentorship

40:37 Tech Tools and Business Strategies

42:44 Outsourcing and Scaling Your Business

46:51 Setting Boundaries and Prioritizing

50:52 Resources and Final Thoughts

Links:

Connect with Beverley Jessup on LinkedIn Learn more about Maven Business Haven Get the book “The Ultimate Sales Letter, 4th Edition: Attract New Customers. Boost your Sales. By Dan Kennedy”

About:

Shining a light on the transformative power of gratitude in business, The Grateful Brand Podcast brings you inspiring stories from successful entrepreneurs who harness gratitude in their journeys. Host, Sarah Frances, shares practical tips on fostering gratitude in the workplace, enhancing employee engagement, and driving business success. Join us as we explore how gratitude can elevate your business to new heights!

In this episode, Sarah welcomes Rob Patz, founder and CEO of Coastal Media and Abundant TV. Rob reflects on his 25-year journey in media, where he’s helped over 300 ministries share their messages. He shares his humble beginnings in radio, his dedication to mentorship, and the significance of building lasting relationships. Sarah and Rob also discuss the importance of nurturing and balance in their personal lives and how consistent effort often outweighs viral success. This inspiring conversation is a must-listen for those interested in media, entrepreneurship, and personal growth.

Key takeaways:

• Genuine connections in media and mentorship build trust and lasting legacies.
• Leverage digital platforms to expand your influence and reach.
• Guiding others helps pass on your values and expertise.
• A clear, consistent message reinforces your legacy.
• Continuously assess your impact and adjust to stay relevant.

Timestamps:

02:24 Rob Patz's Journey into Radio

04:52 Building Coastal Media

09:51 The Importance of Storytelling

13:15 Embracing Media and Social Platforms

21:49 The Value of Relationships in Business

29:20 The Reality Behind Social Media

29:52 The Power of Internal Belief

31:41 Gratitude and Positivity in Daily Life

32:39 The Importance of Vision in Business

36:28 Balancing Work and Personal Life

49:52 The Joy of Pet Ownership

56:27 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

Learn more about Abundant TV

Connect with Rob Patz on LinkedIn

About:

Shining a light on the transformative power of gratitude in business, The Grateful Brand Podcast brings you inspiring stories from successful entrepreneurs who harness gratitude in their journeys. Host, Sarah Frances, shares practical tips on fostering gratitude in the workplace, enhancing employee engagement, and driving business success. Join us as we explore how gratitude can elevate your business to new heights!