In this bonus episode of the Words of Wisdom Podcast, Kristina Rose of Kristina Rose Photography returns to dive into the relationship between branding and marketing. We break down why it’s essential to define these two areas separately, while also understanding how they work hand-in-hand to build a strong presence for your business. Kristina shares insights on how to market effectively without losing sight of the bigger picture your brand represents, giving listeners practical takeaways for creating strategies that last.

Learn more at krosephoto.com

This episode welcomes Kasey Blouse of Blouse House Creative for a thoughtful and refreshingly honest conversation about the realities of building a business while juggling everything that comes with it. Kasey shares why working on your business—rather than getting lost in the daily grind—is one of the hardest lessons entrepreneurs face, and how an accountability partner can bring clarity, structure, and unexpected breakthroughs.

We also talk about navigating a male-dominated industry as a woman, and how meeting those challenges head-on can shape not just a career, but the long-term direction of a business. Kasey brings a grounded perspective on finding your footing, trusting your talent, and refusing to shrink in spaces that weren’t designed with you in mind. The conversation rounds out with a look at community: why it matters, how to find the people you can actually confide in, and the difference it makes when you’re carrying the weight of business ownership. Kasey’s story serves as both encouragement and a practical reminder that none of us are meant to do this alone.Tune in for an episode full of insight, resilience, and the kind of wisdom that keeps small businesses moving forward.

Learn more at blousehouse.org

In this episode of the Words of Wisdom Podcast, we sit down with Kristin Gallagher of MK Leadership for an honest conversation about failure and the growth that comes from it. Kristin shares insights on how leaders and team members alike can navigate setbacks—transforming mistakes into opportunities for improvement rather than letting them become roadblocks in personal or professional life.

We also explore the role of communication, not just within a team but with ourselves. From extending grace to approaching challenges with curiosity instead of judgment, Kristin highlights how intentional communication can strengthen both leadership and teamwork. This episode is a powerful reminder that failure isn’t the end—it’s a vital step toward becoming a better leader.

In this episode of the Words of Wisdom Podcast, we talk with Katie Stafford of Katherine Stafford Coaching about her journey into business ownership and the experiences that shaped her path. Katie shares how her background in nursing, the education she sought out, and her own personal story fueled her drive to launch a coaching practice that blends professional insight with a deeply personal touch. We also discuss what it means to balance life as a parent while building a business, and how those roles often influence one another.

Katie highlights the importance of integrative medicine and the forward-thinking presence she brings into her coaching, helping clients pursue wellness and growth in meaningful, lasting ways. This conversation is an inspiring look at how life experiences can become the foundation for a business that uplifts others.

For more information visit katherinestaffordcoaching.com

In this episode of the Words of Wisdom Podcast we sit down with Garry Norris, owner of Express Employment Professionals of the Roanoke and New River Valleys, to talk about what success truly means to him. Garry shares his journey to becoming the owner of a local Express Employment franchise and the key lessons he’s learned along the way. We explore the essential elements every business owner should be thinking about in order to build and sustain a successful venture.

Throughout the conversation, Garry emphasizes the power of helping others—why putting the needs of people first not only strengthens your business, but also creates a better life for yourself. His story is an inspiring reminder that real success comes from service, leadership, and community impact.

Learn more at expresspros.com

In this episode of the Words of Wisdom Podcast, we sit down with Kristina Rose of Kristina Rose Photography to talk about the power of authenticity in the digital age. Kristina shares her perspective on how different social media platforms each call for a unique approach, and why being true to yourself matters more than chasing trends. We also dive into the growing role of AI across industries—discussing both its potential and its pitfalls—and why it should be embraced as a tool, not a replacement for human creativity and authenticity.

Bringing it all together, Kristina explains how marketing should be about expressing your genuine self, not trying to fit into someone else’s mold. This conversation is a reminder that the most effective branding starts with who you are, not just what you do.

For more information, visit krosephoto.com

In this episode of the Words of Wisdom Podcast, we welcome Janelle Anderson of Emerging Life Coaching for an in-depth conversation on the world of virtual events. Janelle walks us through what it takes to be more than just a face in the crowd—sharing tips on how to stay attentive, engaged, and productive as an online attendee. We also dive into the art of presenting and speaking effectively for virtual audiences, exploring how to connect and communicate when you’re not in the same room.

On the production side, Janelle shares her insights into planning and facilitating events that are not only meaningful for participants but also profitable for organizers. From strategy to execution, this episode highlights how businesses and individuals alike can make the most out of the growing opportunities that virtual events provide.

Learn more at virtualeventsvisionary.com

In this episode of the Words of Wisdom Podcast, we sit down with Heather Potter of Paint ‘n Fun Ceramics to explore what it truly means to create memorable customer experiences. Heather shares how empathy and understanding play a vital role in customer service, helping businesses leave a lasting impact on the people they serve. We also talk about the balance between personal and professional life—and how those lines can sometimes blur in the world of small business.

Heather also gives us a behind-the-scenes look at how Paint ‘n Fun approaches event planning, item selection, and collaborations, all with the goal of serving the New River Valley in meaningful ways. By looking ahead to future opportunities while also reflecting on past successes and lessons learned, Heather shows how businesses can grow with intention and purpose.

Learn more at paintnfunceramics.com

In this episode of the Words of Wisdom Podcast, we’re joined by Kasey Blouse of Blouse House Creative for a conversation that every business owner needs to hear. Together, we dive into the world of design—covering everything from color palettes and font choices to how those decisions shape the way your business is perceived. Kasey breaks down the often-confused differences between your brand, your branding, and your marketing, and why understanding those distinctions is critical for long-term success.

We also talk about the importance of tying digital and print design together so your message is consistent no matter where people see it. Whether you’re just starting to build your identity or looking to refresh your established look, this episode is packed with insights to help you showcase your business in the best light possible.

Learn more at blousehouse.org

In this episode of Words of Wisdom, we sit down with Rachel Waters of Langley Media Production to talk about the evolution of two connected yet distinct brands: Waters Productions and Langley Media. Rachel shares how the decision to separate these identities has allowed each to thrive in its own space—one focused on timeless photography and videography, the other on helping businesses elevate their marketing with consistent, high-quality content.

We dive into Rachel’s journey from being an artist focused solely on the creative side to embracing the full scope of entrepreneurship, including the challenges and rewards of balancing parenthood with business ownership. Along the way, she breaks down Langley Media’s Monthly Content Membership, explaining how it’s designed to take the weight of content creation off the shoulders of busy business owners while strengthening the local community.

If you’ve ever wondered what it looks like to transition from creative to entrepreneur—or how content creation can truly support community growth—this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

Learn more at langley-media.com