Two Besties with a Mic

This week, the besties are joined by the vibrant and resilient April Bennett—foster mom, community advocate, cooking instructor, and now, aspiring coach. From chasing dreams in New York City to building a non-traditional family through foster care, April shares how she redefined success, love, and self-worth on her own terms.

In this episode, we cover:

• How April went from acting to culinary school to community engagement

• What it was like becoming a single foster mom of five

• The unexpected joy and chaos of raising kids across all ages—from toddlers to teens

• Reclaiming identity after burnout and finding herself again post-COVID

• The role of therapy, coaching, and creative outlets in her healing process

• Launching Time to Thrive, her new coaching and cooking class business

• Finding love unexpectedly—and learning to stay open to new versions of life

• How to hold space for your own dreams while showing up for others

Quote of the Episode: "Leap—and the net will appear." —April Bennett

Book Recommendation: Untamed by Glennon Doyle — a powerful read on authenticity, identity, and choosing yourself.

Connect with April:

• New coaching business: Thyme to Thrive (coming soon)

• Local cooking classes at the YMCA’s community kitchen in Watertown

• Serving as Director of Programming for Take Up Space Foundation

Save the Date: The United Way’s Race Against Poverty is happening September 27 in downtown Watertown. A high-energy, team-based challenge inspired by The Amazing Race, this event raises funds for anti-poverty initiatives while celebrating local businesses and community connection.

Listen now to hear how April turned the “messy middle” into a launchpad for joy, growth, and connection. Available on Spotify or Apple Podcasts! Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!

This week on Two Besties with a Mic, Devan and Kelsey welcome their #1 hype woman, queso queen, and real-life bestie, Barb Perez! It’s a heartfelt, hilarious, and honest convo about what it really means to show up for each other—especially when things get messy.

In this episode:

• Meet Barb Perez and hear how she became part of the Two Besties crew

• The story behind the homemade queso (Barb's love language)

• What real friendship looks like as we grow (and grieve)

• The difference between being raw and being real

• Why curated openness isn’t the same as true vulnerability

• How to recognize sneaky control and people-pleasing tendencies

• Sitting in the dark with your people, literally and emotionally

• Plus: Devan’s weekend daughter, Barb’s legendary quotes, and the vacuum that stole the show

This episode is a must-listen if you’ve ever felt alone in your struggles, wondered if you’re oversharing, or craved friendships that feel safe, sacred, and soul-nourishing.

Featuring wisdom like:

“Real friends aren’t the ones who always show up when it’s fun. They’re the ones who sit with you in the dark.”
“Being raw is for safe spaces. Being real is for the world.”
“Perception is reality, but you don’t owe anyone an explanation.”

Tune in now for deep connection, unexpected laughs, and a reminder that you're not alone.

—

🔗 Links & Mentions:

• Take Up Space Foundation – Join the waitlist or make a donation

• The Body Keeps the Score (Book Recommendation)

• Follow Barb on Facebook

• Follow us on Instagram: @twobestieswithamic

💬 Love this episode? Share it with the friend who’s always shown up when you needed them most.

Welcome back to Two Besties with a Mic! In Episode 39, we’re back in interview mode after wrapping up our four-part series—and this one is a treat.

This week, we're joined by Lorie Converse, a powerhouse in the mortgage world, an event-planning queen, a Watertown community leader, and someone we’re lucky to call a friend. From school boards to bold manifestations, this episode is packed with laughter, personal growth, and a lot of real talk.

In this episode, we talk about:

• How Lorie got into the mortgage industry (spoiler: it started with a trip to Jamaica 🏖️)

• What it’s like to work alongside your spouse and be actual best friends with them

• Balancing business, community service, and motherhood (including four kids!)

• The power of setting bold goals and manifesting your dream life (hello, Cabo!)

• Why you can be both bold and kind—and how Lorie is living proof of that

• The unexpected impact of Bloom, personal growth journeys, and postcards from your past self

• Bravo Housewives, coffee delivery drama, and why a Louis Vuitton bag is more than just a goal

This is one of our most inspiring interviews yet—and we’re not just saying that. Lorie is the definition of real, relatable, and resilient.

Listen in if you’ve ever...

• Felt intimidated to chase big goals

• Wondered how to juggle it all without losing yourself

• Needed a reminder that kindness and boundaries can coexist

Connect with Lorie:

• Facebook: Lorie Converse

• Mortgage Help: Close it with Converse 💼

Grab your Elevate Summit ticket before they sell out: developingwithdevan.com/elevatesummit
💌 Write yourself a postcard when you get there—you’ll thank us later.

Thanks for tuning in, besties! Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear that it’s okay to be both strong and soft. We’ll see you next time!

Love, Devan & Kelsey

#TwoBestiesWithAMic #BoldAndKind #CloseItWithConverse #WatertownWomen #ManifestationWorks #ElevateSummit #MortgageBoss #WomenInBusiness #BloomEffect

Welcome to the fiery finale of our four-part series! In this episode, Kelsey and Devan throw down the glittery black carpet and invite you to unapologetically walk into your villain era—the one where you stop apologizing for being too much and start loving yourself loudly.

In this episode, we dive into:

• What it actually means to be in your villain era (hint: it’s not about being evil)
  

• Rewriting self-worth stories and ditching the “earn your worth” mentality
  

• Why comparison is a tool of oppression (especially for women)
  

• The myth of imposter syndrome and why it’s keeping you small
  

• Prioritizing yourself without guilt (yes, even if it makes people uncomfortable)
  

• How the “blue guy” from Megamind is your new self-worth icon

  
  

Plus, Devan shares her behind-the-scenes process of revamping her self-doubt course into a bold new immersive audio bundle: Stop Talking Sh*t About Yourself — and spills the tea on the funnel she’s building around it (no gatekeeping here).

Kelsey gets real about silencing herself in the past, learning to take up space, and that moment she realized loving yourself out loud isn’t conceited—it’s revolutionary.

Favorite quotes from this episode:

• “I’m not going to shrink myself just because I take up more space.”
  

• “You’re not the villain for prioritizing yourself. You’re just finally not the sidekick.”
  

• “Comparison is a tool of oppression—and we’re not playing that game anymore.”

  
  

Don’t forget: If you’ve listened to episodes 35–38, there’s a special giveaway waiting for you! Go binge the series and listen for the details.

Main Character Energy? Activated. Love us? Leave a review, share with a friend, or tag us on Instagram @TwoBestiesWithAMic.

We're back with part 3 of our 4-part mini-series—and this one is a deep dive. Kelsey and Devan reflect on where they were five years ago (yep, March 2020), and the powerful life, business, and self-worth lessons they’ve learned since.

From quitting jobs, starting businesses during a pandemic, and unlearning perfectionism to building boundaries, battling body image, and breaking free from victim mindsets—this episode is full of real talk and raw growth.

In this episode, we unpack:

• Where we were in March 2020 and how the pandemic impacted our lives and businesses

• The mindset traps we didn’t even know we were stuck in

• How perfectionism, external validation, and fear of rejection held us back

• The advice we’d give our younger selves (and maybe you need to hear it too)

• What it means to wake up and stop living for everyone else

• The things we thought were “the way” that we now know were so wrong

  
  

This is your permission slip to:

• Say no more often

• Stop waiting for someone else’s approval

• Let go of the people who give you the ick

• Take up space even if you don’t “look the part”

• Choose yourself—every damn time

 Mini-Series Listener Challenge Reminder!

Share any episode from this 4-part series on your IG or FB stories, tag @twobestieswithamic, and fill out the Google Form (linked below) to win:

• A $50 gift card to Kelsey Deru Aesthetics

• A signed copy of What’s Your Worth by Devan

• A $25 coffee shop gift card (Starbucks, Dunkin', or your fave local spot!

Deadline: April 25th

Enter here: Two Besties with a Mic Raffle Entry

Favorite quotes from this episode:

• “Maybe those butterflies are actually snakes.”

• “The people who make you feel uncomfortable for no reason? Trust it—and run.”

• “I don’t need you to like me to know I’m worthy.”

• “Looking inward is the first step to waking up.”

Let us know your ah-ha moments—screenshot this episode and tag us!

Welcome back to part two of our four-part mini-series all about unshrinking, unlearning, and unapologetically owning your voice.

In this episode, Devan and Kelsey dive into the best and worst advice they’ve ever received—personally, professionally, and emotionally. From unsolicited feedback that stuck around way too long, to game-changing guidance that altered how they show up in business and life… this one is juicy.

They dive into:

• The advice that kicked off Devan’s journey to unapologetic confidence

• Why Kelsey is rethinking when to speak up (and when to wait)

• The worst things people have said to them—and how they’ve reclaimed the power

• How external validation, beauty standards, and "success myths" mess with our heads

• A vulnerable talk about self-image, pink hair, and the fat insults that don’t land anymore

• The myth of “fake it til you make it” and what builds real confidenceThe one thing they’d tell their younger selves (and maybe you need to hear it too)

Powerful reminder: You do not need to be liked to be worthy. You don’t need to meet anyone else’s expectations to be successful. And your voice is worth using—even if it makes people uncomfortable.

Mini-Series Challenge Reminder! Share this episode on your Instagram or Facebook story, tag @twobestieswithamic, and fill out the Google Form (linked below) to enter to win:

• A $50 gift card to Kelsey Darou Aesthetics

• A signed copy of Devan’s book What’s Your Worth

• A $25 gift card to your fave coffee spot

Deadline to enter: April 25th

Click here to fill out the Google Form after you share for your entry to count! You can enter up to FOUR times (one for each episode in the series). Let’s grow this community together.

What’s the worst advice you’ve ever received—and what would you tell your younger self now? Tag us or DM us @twobestieswithamic!

In this raw and unfiltered episode, Devan and Kelsey kick off their brand new 4-part mini-series, all about reclaiming your voice, your space, and your damn power. It’s just the two of them today—no guests, no script, just real talk between besties.

They dive into:

• The biggest ways they’ve outgrown their 2024 selves

• How they’re finally stepping into their villain eras 👑

• Times they shrunk themselves to make others comfortable (and why they’re done with that)

• The business and personal glow-ups that have reshaped their confidence

• Why authenticity, duality, and being “too much” are now their favorite traits

• And the importance of honoring your truth—even if it makes others uncomfortable

Devan shares how a friendship breakup led to stronger business boundaries and bigger money moves.

Kelsey opens up about walking away from a toxic relationship and finally feeling genuinely happy for real.

PLUS: They’re launching a listener challenge!

Share this episode to your Instagram or Facebook stories and tag @twobestieswithamic for a chance to win:

• A $50 gift card to Kelsey Deru Aesthetics

• A signed copy of Devan’s book What’s Your Worth

• A $25 gift card to your coffee shop of choice (Dunkin', Starbucks, or something local!)

Deadline to enter: April 25th

Click here to fill out the Google Form after you share for your entry to count!

You can enter up to FOUR times (one for each episode in the series). Let’s grow this community together.

🧡 As always, we want to hear from you! DM us or comment with your favorite moments, biggest takeaways, or your answers to the episode’s reflection questions.

34 -  The Power of Storytelling with Mackenzie Heflin

Episode 34 | Two Besties with a Mic

Have you ever wondered how the power of storytelling can elevate your business and build deeper connections with your audience? 

In this episode of Two Besties with a Mic, hosts Devan and Kelsey talk with Mackenzie Heflin about the art of storytelling in business, especially in the fast-paced world of social media and content creation. 

Mackenzie shares her personal journey, the highs and lows of building her brand, and the strategies she’s used to overcome self-doubt and stay authentic while connecting with her community. Ready to learn how vulnerability and authenticity can transform your business? Let’s dive in!

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why vulnerability in storytelling should come from a place of healing.

• How to create content that focuses on your audience's desires and transformations.

• The common struggle of navigating self-doubt as a content creator and how to overcome it.

• The role of storytelling in building relatability and trust with audiences.

• How effective storytelling involves strategy, not just sharing personal experiences.

Don’t miss out on these insights that can take your storytelling and business to the next level!

Favorite Quote from This Episode:"When you're telling your story, every story is needed. Every story has its place. And if it doesn't hit, that's okay. Because maybe the person it was meant for just didn't see it yet,” – Mackenzie Helfin

Connect with Mackenzie Heflin:

Tiktok: @mackenzieheflin_

YouTube: Mackenzie Heflin

Resources & Mentions:

Grab Mackenzie’s free here! 

Follow Devan and Kelsey on Instagram!

@DevelopingwithDevan

@KelseyDarouMUA

@twobestieswithamic

In this episode, Kelsey and Devan are joined by their honorary third bestie, Kayla Jamison — President & CEO of the Greater Watertown North Country Chamber of Commerce. And let us tell you… this convo is equal parts informative and heartwarming.

We dive into the real role of a Chamber of Commerce (it’s way more than just ribbon cuttings and networking events), how the local farmers market is actually run by the Chamber, and why connection is at the heart of everything they do.

Kayla also shares how she stepped into leadership, what self-doubt looks like when you're running a 120-year-old organization, and how she and Devan turned a vision into a women’s conference that’s grown year after year: Bloom.

🌸 Bloom 2025 is coming April 4th at the Hilton Garden Inn in Watertown. Whether you’re a business owner, side hustler, or just craving connection and growth, this event is for you. Expect personal and professional development, speakers like Kelsey and Devan, breakout sessions, and yes—really good wings.

🎟️ Grab your ticket at watertownny.com

Episode 32 | Two Besties with a Mic

What does it really mean to take up space unapologetically? How do you handle criticism, self-doubt, and the pressure to shrink yourself? In this episode, we sit down with Rachel Pedersen—entrepreneur, social media strategist, author, and all-around badass—to talk about what it truly takes to show up boldly, embrace vulnerability, and build a business (and life) on your own terms.

Rachel shares her journey from being a hairstylist to growing multiple 8-figure businesses, amassing over 3 million followers, and taking on industry norms without losing herself in the process. We get real about the struggles of online visibility, handling trolls, and why perfection is overrated.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The role of vulnerability in building trust online (and why timing is everything)

• How Rachel navigates negativity, trolls, and unsolicited opinions on social media

• The power of owning your voice (even when it makes people uncomfortable)

• Why taking up space isn’t just about being loud—it’s about showing up fully

• The behind-the-scenes reality of running a successful business while being a real, imperfect human

• And of course, some hilarious, unhinged social media moments that remind us to stop taking it all so seriously

Favorite Quote from This Episode: "Don’t apologize for being who you are. If it’s weird, if it’s crass, if it’s polished, if it’s perfect—don’t apologize for who you are, how you show up, and the way that you show up in this world." – Rachel Pedersen

Connect with Rachel Pedersen:

Website: www.rachelpedersen.com

Instagram: @themrspedersen

YouTube: Rachel Pedersen

Resources & Mentions:

Follow Two Besties with a Mic:

Instagram: @twobestieswithamic

Website: Two Besties with a Mic

What’s your biggest takeaway from this episode? Drop us a DM or comment on our latest post!