In today's episode of The Luxe and The Short of It podcast, Madeleine discusses her recent conversation with Ami Pierce of A More Better You, whose inspiring journey challenges the conventional definitions of success. 

Ami shared how she initially followed the expected path—excelling academically, climbing the corporate ladder, and managing substantial responsibilities at a young age — only to realize that these achievements didn’t truly fulfill her. Her story is a testament to the value of self-reflection, personal growth, and the courage it takes to pivot toward a more meaningful life.

The episode highlights the significance of seasons of struggle and growth, illustrating how even challenging periods can equip us with invaluable skills and insights. You're encouraged to reflect on your own path and consider whether you’re living in alignment with your passions. Ami's journey, filled with setbacks and triumphs, serves as a powerful reminder that life is not a linear progression but a dynamic process of exploration and reinvention. 

This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration to take ownership of their story, embrace change, and craft a life that brings purpose and fulfillment.

If you've enjoyed this episode of The Luxe and The Short of It podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!

Enjoy!

In This Episode You'll Learn:

• The societal norm of success and how Ami checked all the boxes, and yet felt unfulfilled.
• Madeleine's successful senior year selling Cutco knives, which solidified her all-in approach to business. 
• The joy of finding creative outlets and how it led to brand partnerships with major companies like Delta Airlines and Target.
• The importance of finding a business that aligns with one's passions and talents, which ultimately led to Madeleine's success in short-term rentals. 
• And much more...

https://www.madeleineraifordholland.com/streamlined

Resources:

Madeleine's Podcast Insider

Madeleine’s Instagram

Madeleine’s website

MHM Luxury Properties

Connect with Madeleine on LinkedIn

In today's episode of The Luxe and the Short of It podcast, Madeleine is joined by Lyndsay Dowd, founder of Heartbeat for Hire.

During the conversation, Lyndsay shares a deeply personal journey of unexpected setbacks that led to remarkable opportunities. What began as a crushing career disappointment quickly transformed into an unforeseen path of growth, reinvention, and leadership. Through resilience and a willingness to embrace change, she uncovered new ways to inspire and guide others, ultimately shaping a brand and mission that resonates on a global scale.  

You'll discover the essential qualities of modern leadership, focusing on the critical skills that define effective and compassionate leaders today. With engaging anecdotes and powerful insights, Lyndsay challenges conventional leadership norms, advocating for a fresh, human-centered approach that fosters trust, motivation, and success.

Whether you're navigating career shifts, leadership roles, or personal growth, this conversation is packed with inspiration and actionable insights to help you seize your own unexpected opportunities.

If you've enjoyed this episode of The Luxe and the Short of It podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!

Enjoy!

In This Episode You'll Learn:

• The importance of community support and establishing oneself as an expert on various platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram. 
• The value of kindness and leading with compliments, both in personal and professional interactions.
• Lindsay's approach to commenting on others' posts and the impact it can have on building a strong network.
• Her experience of writing a book and starting a podcast to share her journey and inspire others.
• And much more...

Guest Bio:

Lyndsay Dowd is a dynamic speaker, author, coach, podcast host, and disruptor, dedicated to transforming leadership through culture and modern management practices. As the founder of Heartbeat for Hire, she leverages over 25 years of experience leading high-performing sales teams, including 23 years at IBM. Recognized as a Top 10 Business Coach by Apple News and recipient of the 2023 Award for Innovation and Excellence, Lyndsay has also been a Featured Guest Lecturer at Harvard University. Her work has been featured in *Fortune Magazine, HR.com, Authority Magazine, and Business Management Daily*, among others. A two-time author, she wrote *Top Down Culture* and contributed to *Voices of Women*. She also hosts the top 5% globally ranked podcast, Heartbeat for Hire, and currently serves as Chief Revenue Officer for Intry, helping job seekers land their dream roles.

https://www.madeleineraifordholland.com/streamlined

Resources:

Heartbeat for Hire

Top Down Culture book

Madeleine's Podcast Insider

Madeleine’s Instagram

Madeleine’s website

MHM Luxury Properties

Connect with Madeleine on LinkedIn

Disclaimer:

The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of The Luxe and the Short of It podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.

In today's episode of The Luxe and the Short of It Podcast, Madeleine reflects on the practices and tools that have shaped her journey from a stressed-out nine-to-fiver to a thriving entrepreneur with time and financial freedom.

Drawing from personal experiences, she shares the value of intentional goal-setting, effective habit formation, and practical strategies to maintain focus and balance in the midst of a busy life. From planning quarterly goals with the Epic Life Planner to incorporating small but meaningful habit stacks inspired by Atomic Habits, Madeleine explains how these methods create lasting change without overwhelming your day-to-day routine.  

You'll discover the importance of creating space for reflection and recalibration. By sharing her own experiences with yearly planning alongside her husband, Madeleine emphasizes how aligning personal and professional goals has helped set the trajectory for their life and business. She introduces the concept of the "sacred pause," a deliberate practice of stepping back to assess priorities, avoid burnout, and reconnect with purpose. 

Whether it’s rethinking how you set goals, simplifying your daily habits, or carving out time for self-reflection, this episode serves as a reminder that the life you envision starts with the choices you make today. 

If you've enjoyed this episode of the The Luxe and the Short Of It podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!

In This Episode You'll Learn:

• How tools like the Epic Life Planner and quarterly goal-setting can help you focus on specific areas of your life while embracing the idea that you can’t do everything all at once.  
• How small, actionable changes—like pairing new habits with existing ones—can simplify routines and make it easier to achieve your goals consistently.  
• Why stepping back to reflect on your priorities and align them with your larger purpose is essential for avoiding burnout and driving personal and professional growth.  
• Why breaking down ambitious goals into smaller, manageable steps leads to long-term success, with examples of practical tips for building momentum.
• And much more...

https://www.madeleineraifordholland.com/streamlined

Resources:

Madeleine's Podcast Insider

Madeleine’s Instagram

Madeleine’s website

MHM Luxury Properties

Connect with Madeleine on LinkedIn

In today's episode of The Luxe and The Short of It podcast, Madeleine is joined by Brianna Amigo of Brianna Michele Interiors.

During the conversation, Madeleine and Brianna explore the intersection of creativity and practicality, emphasizing the importance of balancing style with functionality. They discuss how attention to detail and thoughtful choices can transform a space, creating unique experiences that leave lasting impressions.

You'll discover the evolving landscape of design and how emerging tools and resources are reshaping the way professionals approach their work. With a focus on efficiency and innovation, Brianna shares strategies for simplifying processes while maintaining high standards.

Brianna's journey demonstrates how thoughtful planning and a clear focus on values can lead to meaningful opportunities and sustainable success. This dynamic discussion offers a refreshing perspective on blending artistry with practicality, leaving listeners motivated to explore their own creative possibilities.

If you've enjoyed this episode of The Luxe and The Short of It podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!

Enjoy!

In This Episode You'll Learn:

• Brianna's transition from marketing to design, highlighting her 10 years of experience in the corporate marketing space. 
• The importance of relying on data to identify use cases and design strategies that outperform competitors. 
• The challenges of running a business and the fulfillment of creating her own path. 
• Brianna's must-have features for short-term rentals, including white linens and sheets, full-length mirrors, luggage racks, and universal chargers.
• And much more...

Guest Bio:

Brianna Amigo is the founder of Brianna Michele Interiors, a design firm specializing in transforming short-term rental (STR) properties into standout spaces that drive increased revenue through strategic, scroll-stopping design. With a background in corporate marketing and a deep understanding of target demographics, Brianna blends creativity with data-driven insights to craft memorable guest experiences that enhance brand visibility. Her passion for design stems from a childhood immersed in creativity, influenced by her father, a chef and musician. After identifying a significant gap in the STR design market, Brianna pivoted her focus in 2020, leveraging her skills as an interior designer and Airbnb Superhost. Today, she collaborates with her dedicated team on STR, residential, and commercial projects nationwide.

https://www.madeleineraifordholland.com/streamlined

Resources:

Brianna's Instagram

Brianna Michele Interiors

Madeleine's Podcast Insider

Madeleine’s Instagram

Madeleine’s website

MHM Luxury Properties

Connect with Madeleine on LinkedIn

Disclaimer:

The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of The Luxe and The Short of It podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.

In today's episode of The Luxe and The Short of It podcast, Madeleine is joined by Ami Pierce, the Founder and CEO of A More Better You.

During this conversation, Madeleine and Ami explore the intersection of personal growth, creativity, and the power of intentional design. The conversation begins with stories of unexpected journeys, where embracing change and following intuition led to remarkable transformations. 

Discover the process of crafting spaces that resonate deeply with those who experience them. The dialogue goes beyond surface-level aesthetics, emphasizing the importance of tuning into the unseen elements that create harmony and evoke comfort. With candid anecdotes about personal struggles, moments of realization, and surprising breakthroughs, the episode paints a vivid picture of how thoughtful design can be a form of self-expression and healing.  

Whether it’s a last-minute retreat or a chance to collaborate, Ami highlights how stepping into the unknown can unlock new connections, purpose, and inspiration. With heartfelt stories and actionable insights, this conversation invites you to rethink what it means to create a life and work that truly align with your passions.

If you've enjoyed this episode of The Luxe and The Short of It podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!

Enjoy!

In This Episode You'll Learn:

• Ami's background in finance and her decision to pursue a career in investment banking despite her passion for design.
• Her decision to leave Coca-Cola in 2023 after a year of preparation, driven by her desire to focus on her creative passions.
• The value of creating spaces that make people feel good and the role of essential oils and other design elements in enhancing the guest experience. 
• The importance of creating spaces that feel good to be in, drawing on her sensitivity to light, sound, and texture.
• And much more...

Guest Bio:

Ami Pierce is the Founder and CEO of A More Better You and A More Better Home, dedicated to helping individuals overcome limiting beliefs and hidden barriers to achieve fulfilling personal and professional lives. After 22 years in the corporate world, including 19 years of outward success masking inner turmoil, Ami hit rock bottom in 2019. A transformative encounter with Mindset Coach Teri Wade at a meditation course helped her break free from burnout, establish healthy boundaries, and rediscover joy. Inspired by her own transformation, Ami introduced growth mindset workshops at Coca-Cola, fostering connection, collaboration, and success across teams. Following the program’s success and its eventual funding cut, Ami left the corporate world in 2023 to pursue her passion for mindset coaching full-time.

https://www.madeleineraifordholland.com/streamlined

Resources:

A More Better You

Ami's Instagram

Madeleine's Podcast Insider

Madeleine’s Instagram

Madeleine’s website

MHM Luxury Properties

Connect with Madeleine on LinkedIn

Disclaimer:

The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of The Luxe and The Short of It podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.

Welcome to The Luxe and the Short Of It podcast, where your host, Madeleine Raiford-Holland, introduces you to a life-changing journey that starts with a simple yet profound question: Is there more to life than the rat race?

Reflecting on her own experience as a military wife, mom, and former corporate executive, Madeleine recounts the moment she and her husband decided to break free from the relentless grind of nine-to-five jobs. What you'll find is a deeply personal and inspiring exploration of the bold decisions and risks that reshaped their lives and led them to the financial and personal freedom they craved.

Madeleine shares how she and her husband took a leap of faith into the short-term rental industry, navigating uncertainty and skepticism from others around them. With candid anecdotes and lessons learned, she reveals the core principles that guided their success—simplifying processes, prioritizing what truly matters, and embracing action over perfection.

Whether you're a seasoned professional or someone longing for a fresh start, this podcast serves as both a guide and a source of encouragement. Through her own transformative journey, Madeleine invites you to envision your ideal life and will help equip you with the tools and motivation to make it a reality.

If you've enjoyed this episode of the The Luxe and the Short Of It podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!

https://www.madeleineraifordholland.com/mini-retreat

In This Episode You'll Learn:

• How Madeleine transitioned from a corporate nine-to-five job to becoming a seven-figure entrepreneur and what it means to live a life of time and financial freedom.
• Recognizing the toll of the daily grind, and how it led Madeleine and her husband to reimagine their lifestyle and take bold steps toward a new path.  
• The key reasons they chose short-term rentals over other real estate ventures, including the potential for higher returns and a better work-life balance.  
• The foundational principles Madeleine shares for creating a thriving business and life: prioritizing time, simplifying processes, and taking action despite fear.
• And much more...

Resources:

Madeleine's Podcast Insider

Madeleine’s Instagram

Madeleine’s website

MHM Luxury Properties

Connect with Madeleine on LinkedIn

Disclaimer:

The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of the The Luxe and the Short Of It podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.