The Uplifters

From a tiny Chinese village without electricity to launching a $100 million home décor empire, Jenny Jing Zhu's story is a masterclass in turning limited resources into limitless possibilities.

As the founder and chairwoman of Lush Decor Home, Jenny transformed herself from a hotel maid in Beijing to a powerhouse entrepreneur in America, while learning english alongside the toddler she was caring for as a nanny.

Jenny's path came with plenty of dramatic setbacks. After launching Lush Decor, she was betrayed by a business partner who tried to force her out of her company. But rather than letting this experience destroy her courage, Jenny used it to create an exceptionally diverse and empathetic company culture. Today, Lush Decor operates like a "United Nations," with team members speaking 11 different languages and representing multiple generations of immigrants.

Now, Jenny's story has inspired both a memoir, Dream Weaver, and a short film that recently premiered at the Venice Film Festival. In this powerful conversation on The Uplifters Podcast, you’ll learn the mindset strategies she uses to overcome challenges and grow in the face of obstacles.

When I first arrived in the United States, I was overwhelmed. I was a young woman from a small village in China, suddenly thrust into a world that felt completely foreign. I didn’t speak the language, I didn’t understand the culture, and I felt utterly alone. But even in those moments of doubt, I held tightly onto my dreams. My dreams became my guiding light, the driving force that pushed me to face every challenge head-on. There were countless moments when I questioned if I had what it took to build a life here. I took on jobs I had no experience in, navigated a new country with nothing but a dream, and faced uncertainty with no guarantee of success. But I refused to let go of the vision I had for my future. With every step, I reminded myself that each obstacle was a lesson, an opportunity to learn and grow stronger. I began to see every challenge as a thread I could weave into the tapestry of my life—threads of passion, grit, and determination. Together, they created a safety net that caught me every time I stumbled. What I want you to know is this: Hold onto your dreams. Let them be your anchor and your motivation. Use them to propel you forward, even when the path seems unclear or daunting. If you can keep your dreams in sight, they will give you the strength to face any challenge and the courage to turn obstacles into opportunities. If I can make it through those difficult times—feeling lost in a new city, struggling to find my footing, and building my dream from the ground up—so can you. Your dreams are the fuel that will keep you moving forward. Every challenge you face is an opportunity to discover your strength and turn your dreams into reality. You have the power within you to shape your future, no matter how insurmountable the obstacles might seem. Believe in your dreams, believe in your ability to overcome, and know that you’re not alone on this journey. If I could find my way and make my dreams a reality, I know you can too. Keep dreaming, keep striving, and never lose sight of the beautiful life you are capable of creating.5 Key Uplifting Lessons:

1. Don't wait for perfect conditions – sometimes you just have to leap and trust you'll figure things out along the way

2....

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In the 1970s, Melanie Cohen's dad had a PhD in chemical engineering and applied physics, doing innovative work in clean fuels. He was also dealing drugs to fund his addictions and lavish lifestyle.

His addiction to drugs and money was a continuation of his father's addiction to gambling. This inherited tendency toward an insatiable desire for "more" led to Melanie's food addiction, which we joked was a generational journey from Craps, to Crack, to Crackers.

After learning to rebuild her relationship with food, Melanie became interested in how the constant chatter and clutter of "more" in other domains, like finances, was impacting her life. By learning to apply the same tools, mental models, and practices she used to create a healthy relationship with food, she learned to clear her own clutter, live in alignment with her values, and find her greatest satisfaction in helping others do the same.

Today, as a transformative coach, Melanie teaches people how to identify and clear four types of clutter holding them back: physical, digital, mental, and financial. In this episode, she shares practical strategies like her 30-day decluttering challenge (start with one item on day one, two items on day two, and so on until you've cleared over 450 items in a month) and offers wisdom about why we hold onto things that no longer serve us. Whether you're drowning in physical stuff, digital overwhelm, or limiting beliefs about money and worth, Melanie's insights will help you create space for what truly matters.

Join the Challenge

Ready to create more space in your life? Join Melanie and me in the 30-Day Declutter Challenge, starting November 1! Join our private Facebook group to learn more.

5 Key Uplifting Lessons:

• Start ridiculously small - Whether decluttering your space or your mind, begin with manageable goals that build confidence over time
• Your worth isn't tied to your productivity - Success doesn't require working yourself to exhaustion
• Breaking generational patterns requires examining inherited beliefs about money, success, and worth
• Perfectionism can paradoxically lead to paralysis - sometimes good enough is perfect
• Living your values means having the courage to do business your way

Discover More about Melanie and her work

https://melaniecohen.podia.com https://www.facebook.com/MelanieThoughtFullyCoachingLissCohen https://www.instagram.com/thoughtfully_coaching/ https://www.youtube.com/@MelanieCohen-TFCoach2023 https://www.tiktok.com/@thoughtfullycoaching?lang=en https://www.linkedin.com/in/melanie-cohen-bb56107/

What do you think?

Please click here to complete our listener survey. It’ll take less than 2 minutes and it will make a big difference!

The Uplifters’ Web

This week’s opening is by the wonderful Kate Tellers, from episode 59 of this podcast.

Get full access to The Uplifters at www.theuplifterspodcast.com/subscribe

It’s pretty scary to put yourself out there in a world that can feel really divided, but Lovisa Brown, the Executive Director of Extreme Kids and Crew, is proving that we find our way back to one another not through layering on our protective masks, but by taking them off. A nod or smile acknowledges our shared humanity, moments of honesty when we admit that we don’t know all the answers help others feel braver doing the same, and creating spaces for differences to take the lead ensures that we break through the limits of our own experience. Lovisa and her team spend their days looking for ways to create these connections for neurodivergent children and their families, but it’s also the way Lovisa lives and leads in every area of her life.

In this inspiring episode, Lovisa shares her journey of creating environments where vulnerability is celebrated, differences are embraced, and every individual is seen for their unique superpowers. From fostering inclusivity in public spaces to championing transparency in leadership, Lovisa's approach reminds us of the power of human connection and the importance of acknowledging our shared humanity.

5 Key Uplifting Lessons:

1. Create brave spaces, not just safe ones: Encourage vulnerability and open communication to foster genuine connections.
2. Embrace transparency in leadership: Being honest about fears and uncertainties can create a more authentic and supportive work environment.
3. Recognize diverse superpowers: Look beyond traditional notions of strength to appreciate the unique abilities in everyone.
4. Seek commonalities across differences: Focus on shared interests and experiences to build bridges between diverse groups.
5. Practice simple acts of acknowledgment: A simple "hello" can be a powerful tool in breaking down barriers and fostering inclusivity.

Discover More about Extreme Kids and Crew

https://www.extremekidsandcrew.org/ https://www.facebook.com/extremekidsandcrew/ https://www.instagram.com/extreme_kids_and_crew

What do you think?

Please click here to complete our listener survey. It’ll take less than 2 minutes and it will make a big difference!

This week’s opening is by my dear friend, Karen Poel.

Let’s keep rising higher together.

💓 Aransas

Uplift With Us!

🌟 Wear your inspiration with an Uplifter necklace. Treat yourself or gift one HERE.

💡 Need clarity on your vision? Explore private coaching to illuminate your next chapter HERE.

🚀 Is your team ready to soar? Discover how I can boost your high-performers HERE.

👭 Join an Uplifters Circle for regular doses of support and sisterhood. Details HERE.

Get full access to The Uplifters at www.theuplifterspodcast.com/subscribe

Every episode of this podcast is special, but this one is extra, extra special.

Today I'm thrilled to introduce you to the wizard behind my own dreams coming true. As we close on our dream house (today!), I'm acutely aware this wouldn't be possible without our guest's expertise. While I understand human behavior, the stock market was Greek to me (the non-Greek in my marriage). Enter Veronica Karas: financial planner extraordinaire, who bridges the gap between mindsets and markets. Veronica has guided us from goal-setting to dream-achieving. Now she's here to empower you and change how you think about money.

As a refugee immigrant from Belarus, she arrived in America at a young age with her family, each carrying just two suitcases and $40. Witnessing her grandfather fall victim to predatory financial practices ignited a passion in Veronica to help others navigate the complex world of finance.

With a unique blend of financial expertise and coaching skills, Veronica has made it her mission to demystify money matters and help people create abundance in their lives. She believes that money is not evil but rather a tool that creates options and freedom. Through her work as a certified financial planner and her books on financial literacy, Veronica is changing lives one budget at a time.

Veronica takes a holistic approach to financial wellbeing. She understands that money is deeply intertwined with our psychology, our relationships, and our overall life satisfaction. Her advice goes beyond numbers, encouraging people to align their finances with their values and create a life that makes their hearts smile.

Money just creates options. If you're in a perpetual debt cycle, your only option is to pay it off or go bankrupt. If you start saving, you open additional windows of opportunity for yourself.

5 Uplifting Lessons from Veronica

1. It's never too late to start taking control of your finances. Better late than never!

2. Money is a tool that can create more choices in your life. Use it wisely to open doors of opportunity.

3. Self-care and financial wellbeing are interconnected. Take care of both for a more balanced life.

4. Align your spending with your values and priorities. Your budget is a reflection of what matters most to you.

5. Financial literacy is empowering. The more you understand about money, the more freedom you'll have to create the life you want.

About Veronica

Veronica Karas is a Certified Financial Planner™ Professional and Principal for CAPTRUST, a leading independent investment research and fee-based advisory firm. With over a decade of experience, Veronica is known for her holistic approach to financial planning, which includes investment management, retirement planning, estate planning, tax planning, and risk management.

Veronica's financial planning services are personalized to each client's unique goals, risk tolerance, and financial situation. She is dedicated to helping her clients achieve their financial goals and create a lasting legacy. Veronica is the author of the ‘Money Matters’ series of books and a regular speaker on financial planning topics. She has been featured in Forbes, CNBC, Bloomberg, and recognized as one of the top financial planners in the United States.

In addition to her financial planning designation she has also obtained the following additional specialized certifications:

1) Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA)

2) Elder Planning Specialist

3) Certified Financial Counselor

4) Master of Business Administration (MBA)

5) Level 1 Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)

6) Certified Charitable Giving Specialist

7) Registered Social Security Analyst (RSSA)

In progress: Master’s of Science in Taxation...

Get full access to The Uplifters at www.theuplifterspodcast.com/subscribe

What were you doing at 26? I was just barely figuring out how to adult. But, Taylor Scott is revolutionizing food access in Richmond, Virginia.

What started as a simple desire to share excess tomatoes from her hydroponic garden has blossomed into RVA Community Fridges, a network of 14 community fridges serving food apartheid communities. Taylor's infectious enthusiasm and "delusionally optimistic" outlook have transformed the way her community thinks about food security, proving that sometimes the biggest changes start with the smallest seeds.

In this episode, Taylor shares the whirlwind journey of RVA Community Fridges, from its humble beginnings to its current status as a vital community resource, as well as practical insights for turning the spark of an idea into a movement.

Taylor’s story is a powerful reminder that with creativity, determination, and a little bit of "delusional optimism," we all have the power to make a significant impact in our communities.

5 key uplifting lessons:

1. Small acts of generosity can spark significant change in communities.

2. Success can be measured in small, daily victories rather than grand end results.

3. Addressing systemic issues like food apartheid requires creative, community-driven solutions.

4. Embracing "delusional optimism" can help overcome initial doubts and fears.

5. Community involvement and feedback are crucial for sustainable, impactful projects.

Please Lift Up The Uplifters

Please click here to complete our listener survey. It’ll take less than 2 minutes and it will make a big difference!

The Uplifters’ Web

Taylor was nominated by Caroline Scruggs.

This week’s opening is by the amazing Julie B. Hughes

Uplift With Us!

🌟 Wear your inspiration with an Uplifter necklace. Treat yourself or gift one HERE.

💡 Need clarity on your vision? Explore private coaching to illuminate your next chapter HERE.

🚀 Is your team ready to soar? Discover how I can boost your high-performers HERE.

👭 Join an Uplifters Circle for regular doses of support and sisterhood. Details HERE.

Get full access to The Uplifters at www.theuplifterspodcast.com/subscribe

Kerry Brodie is impatient. When she saw a problem and realized the existing solutions could take years or decades to create change, she created a whole new system: one that would have immediate and lasting impact for generations.

As the founder of Emma's Torch, she's created a launchpad for refugees, asylees, and survivors of human trafficking. Through culinary education, ESL classes, and job placement assistance, Emma’s Torch is helping America's newest arrivals chart their own course to success.

In this episode, Kerry shares how she went from from DC politics to nonprofit founder. She dishes on the challenges of balancing work and family life, and serves up some food for thought on what it truly means to lead authentically. Kerry's story is a reminder that sometimes the most powerful question we can ask ourselves is "whose permission are you waiting for?"

Instead of “Why me?” I ask, “Why not me? What barrier is in front of me that's making this impossible? Who is the gatekeeper whose opinion matters more than my conviction? Whose opinion or rules matter more than the needs of this moment?”

5 Key Uplifting Lessons:

1. Don't wait for permission - ask yourself "why not me?"
2. Break big problems down into smaller, manageable steps.
3. Approach challenges with curiosity rather than fear.
4. Success is about empowering others to pursue their own goals.
5. Being a leader means empowering others, not martyring yourself.

Please Lift Up The Uplifters

• Please click here to complete our listener survey. It’ll take less than 2 minutes and it will make a big difference! Now, let’s get on to this week’s inspiring story!
• We’ve been nominated for a Women in Podcasting Award! It would mean so much if you’d vote for The Uplifters in the motivation and inspiration category. It takes just a few seconds. Voting closes in just one week, so if you’ve been waiting to vote, now’s the time.

Vote

The Uplifters’ Web

• Kerry was nominated by Sandy Samberg. Check out her wonderful story on The Uplifters episode 60.
• This week’s opening is by the amazing Janelle Hill. Here her story on The Uplifters episode 56.

Let’s keep rising higher together.

💓 Aransas

Get full access to The Uplifters at www.theuplifterspodcast.com/subscribe

It can seem almost impossible to escape homelessness, but with the support of her community, LaKeshia Hodge broke a generational cycle. Now, she’s dedicating her life to helping others do the same.

Her journey is a testament to the power of community and the ripple effect of love. As co-founder of the Struggle of Love Foundation, Lucky LaKeshia has spent over two decades uplifting her Denver community. In this conversation, LaKeshia shares how she went from surviving to thriving and how she's teaching at-risk youth to do the same through goal-setting, self-love, and community support.

Get ready to be inspired as LaKeshia takes us on a journey from her humble beginnings to leading an organization that touches countless lives. You'll learn about her innovative approach to youth mentoring, her struggles with self-care (we can all relate!), and simple shifts you can make to boost your sense of hope. LaKeshia's infectious energy and unwavering commitment to her community will leave you feeling uplifted and ready to make a difference in your own corner of the world.

5 Key Uplifting Lessons:

1. Start with self-love: What’s your Affirmation Name?
2. Set a vision: It’s impossible to break a cycle when we don’t know where we are going. Acknowledging where you want to be in 5 years can change literally everything.
3. Embrace your struggles: They can become your strength and purpose.
4. Create a supportive community: A rising tide lifts all boats.
5. Practice self-care: The smallest daily habits can make a big difference, especially if they mean you get a break.

“Surround yourself with positivity, lean on your community for support, and always believe in your own resilience.”

Please Lift Up The Uplifters

• Please click here to complete our listener survey. It’ll take less than 2 minutes and it will make a big difference! Now, let’s get on to this week’s inspiring story!
• We’ve been nominated for a Women in Podcasting Award! It would mean so much if you’d vote for The Uplifters in the motivation and inspiration category. It takes just a second and you only need to vote once, so I promise it won’t become one of those “stop what you’re doing and vote 1,000 times” things.

Vote

The Uplifters’ Web

• LaKeshia was nominated by Caring Cydni Richardson who makes The Uplifters possible through her brilliant administrative support.
• This week’s opening is by Hopeful Hilary Weissman

Let’s keep rising higher together. And pleaseeeee tell me your affirmation names, friends!

💓Authentic Aransas

Uplift With Us!

🌟 Wear your inspiration with an Uplifter necklace. Treat yourself or gift one HERE.

💡 Need clarity on your vision? Explore private coaching to illuminate your next chapter HERE.

🚀 Is your team ready to soar? Discover how I can boost your high-performers HERE.

👭 Join an Uplifters Circle for regular doses of support and sisterhood. Details HERE.

Get full access to The Uplifters at www.theuplifterspodcast.com/subscribe

When you think of powerhouse executives in the marketing world, you might imagine sharp suits and even sharper elbows. But Gail Tifford shatters those stereotypes, proving that true leadership comes from authenticity, vulnerability, and a deep sense of purpose.

In this episode, Gail takes us on a journey from her early days at Unilever to her transformative roles at Weight Watchers and beyond. She shares how personal tragedy shaped her approach to life and leadership and why she believes that honesty is the ultimate superpower in the boardroom and beyond.

Gail's story is one of resilience, innovation, and unwavering commitment to lifting others as she climbs. From creating Unilever's first female business resource group to co-founding the #SeeHer initiative with Patty Kerr and Uplifters Podcast guest Shelley Zalis, she's been a tireless advocate for women in the workplace and media representation.

But what truly sets Gail apart is her willingness to be human first and executive second. Her candid reflections on work-life balance, facing loss, and the power of gratitude will inspire you to approach your own challenges with renewed courage and compassion.

"It's okay to choose your family over your career."

5 Key Uplifting Lessons:

1. Embrace vulnerability as a strength, not a weakness.

2. Let your personal purpose guide your professional decisions.

3. When you see a problem, Gail-vanize a solution.

4. You can choose gratitude over victimhood, even in the face of loss.

5. Use your position of influence to create positive change for others.

Get to Know Gail

Global marketing executive Gail Tifford is a partner in True Search’s Consumer practice. As chief brand officer of WW International (formerly Weight Watchers) from 2018 through October 2021, Gail led a strategic brand shift and platform evolution from weight loss to holistic wellness. At WW, she oversaw global strategy for marketing, content, creative, eCommerce, customer intelligence and consumer products. Prior to joining WW, Gail was vice president of media North America and global digital innovation for Unilever and a member of the Unilever global media leadership team. Before joining Unilever, she was vice president of strategic partnerships at Viacom, where she developed multi-platform media and marketing programs for the MTV and VH1 brands. Prior to joining WW, Gail was vice president of media North America and global digital innovation for Unilever and a member of the Unilever global media leadership team. Before joining Unilever, she was vice president of strategic partnerships at Viacom, where she developed multi-platform media and marketing programs for the MTV and VH1 brands. Gail is co-founder of #SeeHer, an advertising advocacy group for women, and is currently the co-chair of AdWeek’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion council (DEI). She is a board member of Fossil Group, Open Farm and Daily Harvest, and an advisor to the Child Mind Institute.

The Uplifters’ Web

• Gail was nominated by Julie Fleischer
• This week’s opening is by Heather Garcia

Let’s keep rising higher together.

The Uplifters website

Get full access to The Uplifters at www.theuplifterspodcast.com/subscribe

As a mother of four, including a child with a disability, Alma Schneider has experienced her fair share of challenges. Yet, rather than letting those trials weigh her down, she's learned to lean into her passions, set healthy boundaries, and uplift those around her.

Alma describes herself as a "recovering 'I'm supposed to do everything' person". Ummmm…. I can relate. How about you? Through therapy and self-reflection, she's come to realize that the resentment she once felt stemmed from crossing her own boundaries and trying to live up to societal expectations of what a "good" mother, wife, and friend should be.

Now, Alma embraces her authentic, enthusiastic self, whether that means connecting people who can help each other, indulging in an ice cream cone in the middle of the day, or traveling to Paisley Park on a whim. As she says, "This is who I am. And there's nothing wrong with that."

"Resentment comes from crossing your own boundaries. Nobody's forcing me to do anything. But when I put myself in a position to do things just because I think I‘m supposed to do them, it causes resentment. Taking that out of the equation really makes a difference and allows me to engage better with my family."5 Uplifting Lessons from Alma Schneider:

1. Honor your boundaries and say "no" without apology. Your time and energy are precious.

2. Embrace your multifaceted interests and passions - they all contribute to your wholeness.

3. Find joy in the in-between moments, even in the midst of difficult circumstances.

4. Authenticity is energizing. Don't be afraid to show up as your enthusiastic, quirky self.

5. Build a supportive community that lifts you up, not one that makes you question your intentions.

Keep up with Alma

• Nonprofit: http://www.1in6support.org
• Podcast: http://www.2momsnofluff.com
• Consulting: http:///www.1in6consulting.com

The Uplifters’ Web

• Alma was nominated by Jackie Wolf
• This week’s opening is by Gina Hamadey from episode 10

www.theuplifterspodcast.com

Get full access to The Uplifters at www.theuplifterspodcast.com/subscribe

In this week’s episode, you’ll meet Alison Mariella Désir. Author, TV host, community organizer, activist, and running enthusiast - Alison wears many hats, all in service of creating more inclusive spaces in the world of athletics and beyond. From founding Harlem Run to championing diversity in the running industry, Alison's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and going the distance to make meaningful change.

Alison gives us a rundown on some of the key moments of her journey from discovering running as an antidote to depression to starting Harlem Run Club to organizing a 250-mile relay to Washington D.C. for women's rights. She shares her insights on building intentional communities, the importance of representation in sports, and how running can be a powerful tool for social change.

5 uplifting lessons from Alison:

1. Embrace your multifaceted self - your diverse interests and skills can come together to create something unique and impactful.

2. Show up consistently for your dreams, even when it feels like no one else is watching.

3. Be open to feedback and believe in others' lived experiences, even if you don't fully understand them.

4. Surround yourself with diverse perspectives to challenge your own thinking and create more inclusive spaces.

5. Use your accomplishments as proof that you're capable of more than you think!

Keep up with Alison on instagram @alisonmdesir

The Uplifters website

Get full access to The Uplifters at www.theuplifterspodcast.com/subscribe