In this episode of Unwritten with Steph, I sit down with filmmaker Wendy Schneider to explore the nearly two-decade journey of creating the documentary Angels of Dirt. The film tells the story of Charlotte Cain and the powerful world of female motorcycle racing — a story of courage, creativity, and connection.

Wendy shares how Angels of Dirt became a spiritual and emotional experience, shaped by personal growth, community, and the music that fuels her creative process. We talk about the heart behind storytelling, the challenges of independent filmmaking, and what it means to measure success by the lives you touch, not the numbers.

This conversation is for anyone who’s ever felt called to tell their story, to keep creating, or to stay true to their vision no matter how long the road gets.

✨ Listen now to feel inspired, grounded, and creatively recharged.

🎬 Guest: Wendy Schneider, Director of Angels of Dirt
📍 Location: Baraboo, Wisconsin
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From sewing costumes during the London Blitz to painting watercolors in Baraboo, Marjorie Cutting’s life is a living tapestry of creativity, courage, and reinvention.

Born in England in 1933, Marjorie began her journey in the arts during WWII. She went on to design costumes for theater, opera, and ballet before studying social psychology and education at the London School of Economics. Her story spans decades, disciplines, and continents—from London’s professional stages to classrooms in San Diego, and finally to a peaceful, creative life in Wisconsin.

In this heartfelt conversation, host Stephanie Shanks sits down with Marjorie to explore how one woman’s unwavering devotion to creative expression shaped every chapter of her life. Whether through thread, brushstroke, or story, Marjorie reminds us: it’s never too late to create.

Learn More at: https://www.studioffsprings.com/

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Welcome to another episode of Unwritten with Steph Shanks

Today's Guest is Marielle School, you can find out more about her here:

https://www.marielleschoolyoga.com/

After a divine encounter in a hospital room, Mariela’s life took a dramatic turn. But awakening wasn’t instant—it required years of integration, shadow work, and resilience. In this intimate episode, she and Stephanie dive into real talk about feminine leadership, mental health, intuitive living, and the power of spiritual softness in a world addicted to hustle.

The Executive Brand Accelerator—a streamlined, high-impact photography experience happening January 27th through 29th. We'll create a full year's worth of powerful, on-brand imagery in just one session. Professional hair and makeup, expert guidance through every pose, and images ready for your speaker one-sheet, LinkedIn, press features, and your website.

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Krystle Frey didn’t just start a podcast—she built a business. In this episode, we talk about valuing your work, knowing your worth, and how one “yes” can change everything. Whether you're launching a podcast or navigating a new season of life, you’ll walk away inspired and informed.

Krystle Frey is the founder of Pivot Ball Change, a podcast editing company designed to support busy female entrepreneurs. What began as her own creative outlet during early motherhood has evolved into a thriving business that helps women simplify the podcasting process so they can focus on what matters most.

With a background as a professional dancer and choreographer, Krystle brings precision, rhythm, and heart to everything she does. She lives in Wisconsin with her husband, two sons, and their rescue dog—and is passionate about helping women share their voices with ease.

https://www.pivotballchange.com/

The Executive Brand Accelerator—a streamlined, high-impact photography experience happening January 27th through 29th. We'll create a full year's worth of powerful, on-brand imagery in just one session. Professional hair and makeup, expert guidance through every pose, and images ready for your speaker one-sheet, LinkedIn, press features, and your website.

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What if the scariest transitions in life—divorce, death, or starting over—could be handled with peace, clarity, and even empowerment? In this episode of Unwritten, I sit down with family law and estate planning attorney Shaunis Mercer, co-founder of Peaceful Law, to explore how women can navigate divorce and life planning without fear-based tactics or emotional burnout.

We talk about:

• Why peaceful legal support matters more than aggressive litigation
• How to make smart, values-driven choices in divorce or separation
• Estate planning as a radical act of self-respect (even if you're single or have "nothing")
• The power of asking honest questions early in relationships
• And how women can reclaim their worth and voice—legally and emotionally

As someone who’s been divorced, reinvented, and rebuilt—both personally and professionally—I bring these insights into the work I do at Steph Shanks Photography, where I help women over 40 see their strength, beauty, and transformation reflected back to them.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by what-ifs or fearful of what’s next, this episode is a roadmap for reclaiming your agency—with compassion and clarity at the center.

More links:

Website: https://peacefullaw.com/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/ncpeacefullaw

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556203799350

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peaceful-law/

The Executive Brand Accelerator—a streamlined, high-impact photography experience happening January 27th through 29th. We'll create a full year's worth of powerful, on-brand imagery in just one session. Professional hair and makeup, expert guidance through every pose, and images ready for your speaker one-sheet, LinkedIn, press features, and your website.

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🎙️ Lessons in Partnership & Pleasure with Christie Bemis
What does it mean to be truly seen and met in love—especially after 40? In this candid conversation, psychotherapist and women’s empowerment leader Christie Bemis shares her journey through divorce, dating in midlife, and building deeply authentic relationships. We talk about emotional safety, erotic intelligence, communication patterns, and how to unlearn shame so we can experience more pleasure and connection. Whether you're partnered, single, or somewhere in between, this episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to rewrite the rules of intimacy.

Take the Quiz: FREE Assessment for Couples-SPARCS©: https://hot-pink-youniversity.mykajabi.com/sparcs-assessment-page

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Christie Bemis Bio:

Christie Bemis is a seasoned psychotherapist, sex educator, relationship coach, and author with over 20 years of experience helping individuals and couples unlock deeper connections and embrace their true potential. Known for her direct yet compassionate approach, Christie blends a vast knowledge base with a relatable style, making her a trusted expert in mental health, intimacy, and personal empowerment.

As a sought-after speaker and podcast guest, Christie shares her insights on topics ranging from relationships and sexual health to self-empowerment. She also hosts the Ignite Your Life with Christie Bemis podcast, where she connects with listeners across multiple platforms.

Christie is trained in the Somatica® Method for building intimacy and relationships and is a certified Level 1 provider of John Gottman's relationship work. Additionally, she is a Certified Sex Therapy Informed Practitioner and is currently advancing her training with Terry Real in Relational Life Therapy to become a certified practitioner.

In 2010, Christie founded Hot Pink YOUniversity to empower women to live lives filled with passion, purpose, and play. She continues to operate under this brand, offering transformative experiences for women. In 2018, she launched Bemis Psychotherapy and Consulting, where she works with women, men, and couples in all relationship configurations to reignite their passions and create more fulfilling lives. In addition, Christie was the Director of Professional Education and Outreach for Back to the Body: Sensuous Retreats for Women.  Through this work, she focused on expanding people’s understanding of sexological bodywork as a source for healing, expan

The Executive Brand Accelerator—a streamlined, high-impact photography experience happening January 27th through 29th. We'll create a full year's worth of powerful, on-brand imagery in just one session. Professional hair and makeup, expert guidance through every pose, and images ready for your speaker one-sheet, LinkedIn, press features, and your website.

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In this episode, I sit down with Seth Taft—professional archaeologist and director of Downtown Baraboo—for a deep dive into local history, mental health, the power of small towns, and living life with purpose. From sacred effigy mounds to the magic of Main Street, Seth shares his personal journey and why Baraboo is more than just a dot on the map.

✨ Topics We Cover:

• Archaeology in Wisconsin and Native effigy mounds
• How Baraboo builds community through events
• Mental health, outdoor adventure, and healing
• The connection between photography and presence

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The Executive Brand Accelerator—a streamlined, high-impact photography experience happening January 27th through 29th. We'll create a full year's worth of powerful, on-brand imagery in just one session. Professional hair and makeup, expert guidance through every pose, and images ready for your speaker one-sheet, LinkedIn, press features, and your website.

Learn More At: stephshanks.com/the-executive-brand-accelerator. That's stephshanks.com/the-executive-brand-acceler

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Andrea Andrea went from an overwhelmed corporate achiever to an intuitive leadership coach — and in this conversation, we unpack how. Tune in for real talk about entrepreneurship after 30, healing through breathwork, embodying your inner guidance, and finally charging your worth without guilt or fear.

Bio:

Andrea did everything she thought a successful woman was supposed to do—college, career, marriage, kids.  When she finally paused to take it all in, she realized she felt bored, disconnected, and deeply unfulfilled.

She couldn’t ignore the voice inside whispering: if you stay on this path, you won't live up to your full potential. For a highly ambitious woman, that was terrifying.

 Years of self-discovery led her back to purpose.  Her secret was getting out of her head and tuning into the wisdom of her body.  She learned which impulses to trust, which fears to dissolve, and how to align her energy with the life she truly wanted.

Now, she helps other ambitious, analytical women break free from living “by the book” and reconnect with their bodies - so they can finally feel alive in their own lives.

Links:

Website: https://andreaandree.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-andree/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/momsgonequantum/

The Executive Brand Accelerator—a streamlined, high-impact photography experience happening January 27th through 29th. We'll create a full year's worth of powerful, on-brand imagery in just one session. Professional hair and makeup, expert guidance through every pose, and images ready for your speaker one-sheet, LinkedIn, press features, and your website.

Learn More At: stephshanks.com/the-executive-brand-accelerator. That's stephshanks.com/the-executive-brand-acceler

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“You are here” isn’t just a map marker—it’s a mindset. Nancy shares how journaling, retreat hosting, and learning to speak up helped her go from invisible in the workplace to designing a legacy rooted in alignment. We talk fear, leadership, writing books, and why it’s never too late to become who you really are.

Follow Along with Nancy at

https://www.kalsowcoach.com/

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Buy Her Book:

https://www.amazon.com/Get-REAL-Reflect-Yourself-Greatness/dp/1734214015/ref=sr_1_1?crid=3LNS68ZR9AS33&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.2u0ebmFirt-7sKokgCrN8zGBIxMdlgRJASPKnHkvLx3GjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.Dk0D8wU-CftKZ9yCWBecbojfakq_HA2nGuHyw3iwnYE&dib_tag=se&keywords=Nancy+Kalsow+Get+REAL+book&qid=1728307681&sprefix=nancy+kalsow+get+real+book%2Caps%2C156&sr=8-1

Thanks for listening!

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From gigging musician to psychology grad and beloved teacher, Shawndell Marks shows us what it looks like to honor your creative calling—no matter where you are in life. This conversation is all about giving yourself permission to be heard.

www.shawndellmarksmusic.com

takeaways

• Creativity is a lifelong journey that never ends.
• Music has the power to evoke deep emotions and memories.
• Education can be a transformative experience, especially later in life.
• Overcoming fear is essential to pursuing one's passions.
• Success is defined by personal fulfillment and purpose, not fame.
• Being a single mom presents unique challenges but also opportunities for growth.
• Traveling solo can lead to significant personal development.
• Reconnecting with nature can be a powerful way to reset and recharge.
• It's important to follow your bliss and pursue what excites you.
• Teaching music can be as fulfilling as performing.

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