Your Story Matters

Most moms are drowning in mental load without even realizing it — but what if the secret to reclaiming your peace is simpler than you think? Michelle Akester-Marsh, a holistic therapist turned mindset coach, reveals how small, intentional shifts can free you from the overwhelm—and unlock a calmer, more fulfilled life. Her story of moving from chaos to calm, from English suburbia to Scottish mountains, illustrates the profound power of choosing ease over effort.

After a moment of breakdown amidst house renovations, Michelle dedicated herself to inner work—learning to release societal conditioning and embrace a life of simplicity. She shares how embracing minimalism, setting clear boundaries, and nurturing her nervous system transformed her identity from exhausted to energized.

Michele’s Favorite Book: The Island by Victoria Hislop | Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden

Listen to Michele’s Podcast: Confessions of a Working Mum

Connect with Michele: Website | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTube | Substack 

Connect with Michaela: Website | Instagram | Newsletter

Enneagram coach and culture expert Kenzie Olejnik reveals why understanding your team’s true motivations is the game changer, and how a simple assessment can unlock a workplace where everyone feels seen and valued.

In this episode, Kenzie shares her journey from a news reporter passionate about storytelling to a culture coach dedicated to cultivating authentic connections at work. Learn how her discovery of the Enneagram transformed her approach to leadership, team dynamics, and personal growth. We break down how understanding the deep-rooted patterns shaped in childhood can revolutionize the way we build trust and foster collaboration.

Kenzie’s Favorite Book: Anything by Nicholas Sparks

Connect with Kenzie: LinkedIn 

Connect with Michaela: Website | Instagram | Newsletter

In this episode, Stephanie Mitchell shares her journey from aspiring actor to accomplished memoir editor and coach. She discusses her early love for storytelling, her transition from acting to editing, and her passion for helping others tell their personal stories. Stephanie emphasizes the therapeutic and societal value of memoirs, highlighting how they can provide insight and foster empathy. The conversation also touches on the cultural pressures of finding a singular passion and the importance of embracing multiple interests. Stephanie's story is one of self-discovery and the courage to pivot towards fulfilling work. 

Free Download from Stephanie! Keep It or Cut It: The Memoir Writer's Story Filter shows you how to quickly and easily identify which stories belong in your memoir and which to leave out

Stephanie’s Favorite Books: The Lions of Al-Rassan by Guy Gavriel Kay and Solito by Javier Zamora 

Connect with Stephanie: Website | Instagram | Facebook | The Memoir Writers' Book Club on Facebook

Connect with Michaela: Website | Instagram | Newsletter

In this episode featuring Shaina Hargens engages in a heartfelt conversation with Shaina, a speaker, coach, and creator of the Anchoring Admits journal. Shaina shares her journey through personal challenges, including grief and loss, and how these experiences shaped her mission to help women build resilience and find steadiness in life. She discusses the creation of her sisterhood community and the development of her guided journal, which aims to empower others through reflective journaling. The episode emphasizes themes of personal growth, the power of community, and the importance of staying grounded amidst life's changes. 

Shaina’s Favorite Book: Promptings by Kody Bateman 

Connect with Shaina: Website | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn | Pinterest | YouTube

Connect with Michaela: Website | Instagram | Newsletter

In this episode, Sarah-Jayne McNaughton shares her journey from a successful corporate career to becoming a life strategist and business coach. After experiencing burnout, she embarked on a path of self-discovery, leading her to help solopreneurs and small business owners. Sarah-Jayne emphasizes the importance of personal development alongside business strategy, focusing on clarity, confidence, and nervous system regulation to prevent burnout. She discusses the significance of living authentically and the joy of embracing failure as a learning opportunity. Her mission is to inspire others to live intentionally and pursue their dreams. 

Sarah-Jayne’s Favorite Books: 10x is easier than 2x by Dan Sullivan and Love Yourself Like Your Life Depends on it by Kamal Ravikant

Connect with Sarah-Jayne: Website | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn

Connect with Michaela: Website | Instagram | Newsletter

Gary Parker is a prolific author with twenty traditionally published novels and six screenplays, known for his eclectic storytelling and deep historical research. His stories span genres but are united by his passion for truth and character-driven narratives.

Join us for a conversation packed with craft tips, surprising historical insights, and a masterclass in epic storytelling that will leave you dreaming of your own novel. Don’t miss this inspiring deep dive into how one story, told well, can evolve, challenge, and ultimately change us.

Pre-Order Gary’s New Book (coming out on June 23rd): The Judgement Tree 

Gary’s Favorite Book: A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles

Connect with Gary: Website⁠ | ⁠Facebook 

Connect with Michaela: Website | Instagram | Newsletter

In this episode, Michael Mirza shares his journey of rediscovering his artistic identity. He reflects on how his early passion for art was set aside for practical career choices in marketing and ministry. Now, as he approaches a new chapter in life, Michael is embracing creativity through pattern design and his podcast "Define Play." He discusses the importance of balancing personal passions with professional responsibilities and the joy of exploring new experiences. Michael's story is one of self-discovery, creativity, and the pursuit of a fulfilling life. 

Michael’s Favorite Book: Rick Rubin - “The Creative Act: A Way of Being” 

Connect with Michael: Website | Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn

Connect with Michaela: Website | Instagram | Newsletter

Most people spend decades searching for their purpose — Romi Grossberg's journey from rebellious teen to global mental health advocate proves it’s never too late to find your true calling.

In this powerful episode, Romi shares how her life's twists and turns led her from a sports teacher in Australia to managing youth centers in Cambodia, and eventually to authoring life-changing books on emotional intelligence and healing trauma. Her story highlights the importance of listening to your inner voice and embracing authenticity, no matter how unpredictable the path. 

Romi's Memoir: Hip Hop + Hope

Romi’s Favorite Book: Tao of Pooh by Benjamin Hoff

Connect with Romi: Website | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube

Connect with Michaela: Website | Instagram | Newsletter

Alison Zeidler shares her inspiring story of overcoming childhood chaos, learning to communicate, and embracing holistic healing to transform her life. Discover practical insights on incremental change, self-awareness, and helping others.

Alison’s Challenge for Celebrating What We’ve Done:

• Look at yourself in the mirror

• Pat yourself on the back and say, “good job. I’m here. I’ve been through stuff.” 

• Pick one thing to give yourself credit for (ex. I got out of bed today)

• Say it every day for two weeks

Alison’s Favorite Book: Anything by Stephen King

Connect with Alison: Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube

Connect with Michaela: Website | Instagram | Newsletter

***Trigger Warning - Alcohol Related Suicide***

In this episode, Colleen Clifford shares her transformative journey from a life marked by binge drinking and personal tragedy to one of healing and empowerment. After the alcohol-related suicide of her late husband, Colleen vowed to change her life and help others by sharing her story. She discusses the impact of grief, the dangers of binge drinking, and the importance of mental health awareness. Colleen emphasizes the power of positive thinking and self-reflection, which led her to become an author and coach. Her upcoming book, "Life Beyond the Binge," aims to inspire others by offering hope and insights into overcoming personal struggles. 

Colleen’s Favorite Book: Man's Search for Meaning - Victor Frankl

Connect with Colleen: Website

Connect with Michaela: Website | Instagram | Newsletter