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In this episode, they chat about: what it really looks like to run a growing literacy nonprofit behind the scenes the overlap between nonprofit leadership, entrepreneurship, and problem-solving common misconceptions about nonprofit staffing and operational costs why literacy and childhood wellbeing are deeply connected how trauma-sensitive learning environments impact student success building emotional safety and confidence before academic progress the realities children in foster care and low-income communities face in school systems why small nonprofits often have deep community relationships and impact how businesses and entrepreneurs can support nonprofit organizations beyond donations creating human-first spaces where children feel safe enough to learn and grow   Resources + Links: Learn more about the Azura Literacy at www.azuraliteracy.org Follow Allyse on LinkedIn: Allyse Hazeltine   Grow your brand, income, and impact! Learn more on our website ellyandnoracreative.com Connect with Sara on Instagram | @sarachamberscreative @ellyandnoracreative For show notes, resources, and more, visit Chicks Who Give a Hoot Follow along with the podcast on Instagram | @chickswhogiveahoot Get a Free Brand Audit → www.ellyandnoracreative.com/brand-audit   Show Notes: This episode features Allyse Hazeltine, Executive Director of Azura Literacy, recorded live at the 2026 Chicks Who Give a Hoot Live Event as part of a special three-episode nonprofit leadership series. Allyse shares what it really looks like to build and lead a growing literacy nonprofit focused on serving children in low-income and foster communities across Arizona. In this conversation, Allyse opens up about the day-to-day realities of nonprofit leadership, balancing tutoring logistics, curriculum development, partnerships, fundraising, grants, and volunteer coordination while leading a small but deeply committed team. She also addresses common misconceptions about nonprofit work, including the idea that meaningful organizations should operate entirely on volunteer labor or without operational overhead. The episode also dives into the deeper "why" behind Azura Literacy's mission. Allyse shares a powerful story about a young foster student struggling with reading confidence and how creating emotional safety, trust, and individualized support completely transformed her relationship with literacy. Through that experience, Allyse explains why Azura Literacy centers a trauma-sensitive, human-first approach to learning rather than treating children like one-size-fits-all students. Azura Literacy is a Mesa-based nonprofit focused on helping children in low-income and foster communities build literacy skills, confidence, and long-term academic success through personalized reading support and trauma-informed tutoring.   00:00 About Allyse Hazeltine 00:42 Welcome to the Show 01:59 Why Allyse Does This 02:52 Nonprofit Reality Check 04:42 How Entrepreneurs Can Help 06:40 Mary's Literacy Breakthrough 08:57 Human First Tutoring Model 10:00 Applause and Closing

In this episode, they chat about: the realities of nonprofit leadership and problem-solving misconceptions about nonprofit work and staffing how the YMCA supports communities beyond fitness programs balancing leadership, boundaries, and community care supporting nonprofits through time, talent, and treasure values-based leadership and learning when to say 'no'   Resources + Links: Learn more about Lighthouse for Hope at www.lighthouseforhope.org Follow them on Instagram: Learn more about the Valley of the Sun YMCA at www.valleyymca.org Follow them on social media: LinkedIn Blake Zickafoose Valley of the Sun YMCA Instagram | @vosymca   Grow your brand, income, and impact! Learn more on our website ellyandnoracreative.com Connect with Sara on Instagram | @sarachamberscreative @ellyandnoracreative For show notes, resources, and more, visit Chicks Who Give a Hoot Follow along with the podcast on Instagram | @chickswhogiveahoot Get a Free Brand Audit → www.ellyandnoracreative.com/brand-audit   Show Notes: This episode features Blake Zickafoose, recorded live at the 2026 Chicks Who Give a Hoot Live Event as part of a three-episode panel series. Blake is a nonprofit executive who has served communities through the YMCA since 2013 across three different states. Known for her values-first leadership style and commitment to community impact, she shares the realities of leading mission-driven organizations while balancing constant problem-solving, team leadership, and community care. The conversation explores the misconceptions people often have about nonprofit work, the importance of boundaries in leadership, and what it really means to "wear all the hats" inside a nonprofit organization. Blake also shares how the YMCA goes far beyond being just a gym, offering programs and services focused on youth development, healthy living, childcare, aquatics, and community support. Blake discusses the importance of supporting nonprofits through time, talent, and treasure, as well as the value of community involvement through advisory boards and volunteering. She also reflects on values-based leadership and why saying "no" is sometimes necessary to protect both staff and the communities nonprofits serve. The Valley of the Sun YMCA is a nonprofit organization rooted in Christian principles that has served communities across Arizona since 1892. Its mission is to build healthy spirit, mind, and body for all through programs focused on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. The YMCA provides a wide range of services including childcare, health and fitness programs, youth sports, camps, and community engagement initiatives designed to strengthen individuals and families.    00:00 About Blake Zickafoose 00:34 Welcome to the Show 01:51 Nonprofit Reality Check 02:50 Wearing 100 Hats at the Y 04:11 TTT: Treasure, Time, and Talent 06:10 Values Based Leadership 06:36 When 'No' Is Best 07:43 Serving Community Not Ego 08:18 Support and Closing

In this episode, they chat about: the day-to-day realities of running a nonprofit as a small two-person team common misconceptions about nonprofit work, staffing, and fundraising the emotional and financial realities families face during childhood cancer treatment how Hannah's own cancer journey inspired Lighthouse for Hope why community support can change the trajectory of a family's experience providing practical support through grocery cards, household essentials, and peer connection supporting siblings, parents, and caregivers alongside pediatric patients the impact of the Hope Families and Holidays for Hope programs creating transformative experiences through the Illuminate Retreat for young women in treatment how entrepreneurs and communities can support nonprofits beyond donations   Resources + Links: Learn more about Lighthouse for Hope at www.lighthouseforhope.org Follow them on Instagram: Hannah Cobley @hannahdcob Lighthouse for Hope @lighthouseforhope   Grow your brand, income, and impact! Learn more on our website ellyandnoracreative.com Connect with Sara on Instagram | @sarachamberscreative @ellyandnoracreative For show notes, resources, and more, visit Chicks Who Give a Hoot Follow along with the podcast on Instagram | @chickswhogiveahoot Get a Free Brand Audit → www.ellyandnoracreative.com/brand-audit   Show Notes: This episode features Hannah Cobley, Founder and Executive Director of Lighthouse for Hope, recorded live at the 2026 Chicks Who Give a Hoot Live Event as part of a three-episode panel series. Hannah shares the realities of leading a small but growing nonprofit organization, from balancing fundraising, events, volunteer coordination, and family support to navigating the misconceptions people often have about nonprofit work and staffing. The conversation also dives deeper into the personal story that inspired Lighthouse for Hope. After facing leukemia as a young adult, Hannah witnessed firsthand how many families navigate cancer treatment without adequate support, community, or financial stability. She opens up about seeing children attend treatment alone, families living out of their cars, and parents forced to choose between work and being present during treatment. Hannah shares how those experiences shaped Lighthouse for Hope's mission to ensure no family fights alone through practical, emotional, and community-based support. She discusses the organization's core programs, including Hope Families, Holidays for Hope, sibling support events, peer support gatherings for moms, and the Illuminate Retreat for young women undergoing cancer treatment. Lighthouse For Hope is a Phoenix-based nonprofit dedicated to supporting families navigating childhood cancer and blood disorders. What began as Hannah's deeply personal mission has grown into a trusted organization providing financial assistance, emotional support, peer connection, and hope to vulnerable families across Arizona and beyond.   00:00 About Hannah Cobley 00:35 Welcome to the Show 01:52 Nonprofit Reality Check 03:42 Funding and Support Gaps 04:44 Hannah's Cancer Story 07:15 Lighthouse Programs 09:56 Applause and Call to Give

In this episode, they chat about: why grief is a universal human experience and nothing to be ashamed of the difference between therapy and grief mentorship how somatic or body-based practices can help process stuck emotions the biggest misconceptions people have about grief why feeling your emotions will not trap you, but avoiding them might the importance of having your grief witnessed how to identify a safe person to share your emotions with   Resources + Links: Learn more about Desiree and her work. Visit her website at www.desireedoucet.com Follow Desiree on Social Media: Instagram | @desiree.doucet LinkedIn | Desiree D. Download "Understanding Grief: 12 Essential Insights" here:  www.desireedoucet.com/understanding_grief   Grow your brand, income, and impact! Learn more on our website ellyandnoracreative.com Connect with Sara on Instagram | @sarachamberscreative @ellyandnoracreative For show notes, resources, and more, visit Chicks Who Give a Hoot Follow along with the podcast on Instagram | @chickswhogiveahoot Get a Free Brand Audit → www.ellyandnoracreative.com/brand-audit   Show Notes: In this episode, Sara speaks with Desiree Doucet, a grief mentor and coach based near Atlanta, who helps people take actionable steps to move forward after loss. Desiree shares how her own experiences with sudden and long-term parental loss, job loss, and divorce shaped her work, and explains how grief mentorship differs from therapy through education, forward-focused support, somatic movement techniques, and a secular "bring your own belief system" approach. She addresses stigma and fear around grief, emphasizing that healing is helped when grief is witnessed, and advises finding a safe person who listens without "should" statements or trying to fix. Desiree Doucet is a grief mentor and coach who helps individuals take actionable steps toward healing after loss. Drawing from her own experiences with different forms of grief, she guides clients in understanding their unique journey and finding a path forward that aligns with their beliefs and needs. She offers 60-day support, occasional groups, remote or in-person sessions, and a free grief insights download.   00:00 Welcome to the Show 01:18 Meet Desiree Doucet 02:30 Her Grief Story 03:35 Therapy vs Mentorship 05:13 Somatic Grief Work 06:43 Grief Misconceptions 08:01 Find Safe Support 09:02 Work With Desiree

In this episode, they chat about: what nervous system regulation really means and what it does not mean why imposter syndrome is rooted in biology, not just mindset how your body responds to perceived threat in business and life simple tools to calm your system before high stakes moments the power of breath and sensory input how to build internal safety so you can show up fully and confidently   Resources + Links: Learn more about Emily and her work. Visit her website at www.emilyjacobson.com   Follow Emily on Social Media: Instagram | @emilyjacobsoncoaching LinkedIn | Emily Jacobson   Grow your brand, income, and impact! Learn more on our website ellyandnoracreative.com Connect with Sara on Instagram | @sarachamberscreative @ellyandnoracreative For show notes, resources, and more, visit Chicks Who Give a Hoot Follow along with the podcast on Instagram | @chickswhogiveahoot Get a Free Brand Audit → www.ellyandnoracreative.com/brand-audit   Show Notes: In this episode, Sara sits down with Emily Jacobson to explore what nervous system regulation actually means and why it is becoming such a powerful tool for entrepreneurs, creatives, and high achievers. They unpack the connection between imposter syndrome, performance anxiety, and your body's built-in survival responses. You will learn how working with your nervous system instead of against it can unlock clarity, confidence, and sustainable growth. Emily also shares simple and practical tools you can use in real time, from breathwork techniques to subtle sensory shifts, to help you feel grounded and safe even in high pressure moments. Emily Jacobson is a neuro-somatic coach and nervous system educator who helps people create lasting change by working with the body as well as the mind. Her approach is grounded in neurobiology and somatic practices, offering simple and practical tools to support clients through anxiety, overwhelm, and patterns rooted in survival responses. After nearly two decades in public service and communications, she transitioned into coaching to pursue more aligned and meaningful work. Today, she works with individuals through coaching, programs, and workshops to help them build a sense of internal safety and show up more fully in their lives and work.   00:00 Welcome to the Show 01:18 Meet Emily Jacobson 02:32 What Regulation Means 04:33 High Stakes Moments 06:28 Imposter Syndrome Biology 08:20 Vagus Nerve Reset 09:53 Where To Find Emily

In this episode, they chat about: how singing can be used as a tool for personal growth, not just performance Lauren's holistic approach to voice coaching and creativity the connection between the voice and challenges like imposter syndrome, perfectionism, and stress why striving for perfection creates tension and leads to more mistakes letting go of outcomes and focusing on breath, presence, and process the "high note" example and how fear directly impacts performance building self-trust and resilience through creative expression why mistakes are part of the process and how to recover in real time tapping into creativity to feel more aligned and fulfilled in everyday life   Resources + Links: Lauren will be hosting a creative retreat in Austin, Texas, alongside her one-on-one coaching and creative work. Visit her website at www.yourauthenticvoice-studio.com Follow Lauren on Social Media: Instagram | @your_authentic_voice   Grow your brand, income, and impact! Learn more on our website ellyandnoracreative.com Connect with Sara on Instagram | @sarachamberscreative @ellyandnoracreative For show notes, resources, and more, visit Chicks Who Give a Hoot Follow along with the podcast on Instagram | @chickswhogiveahoot Get a Free Brand Audit → www.ellyandnoracreative.com/brand-audit   Show Notes: In this episode, Sara talks with Lauren Urso Gray, a Dallas-based voice teacher, creative coach, and founder of Your Authentic Voice. Through her work, Lauren helps women tap into their creative energy and reconnect with their true selves, primarily through singing. Her clients range from professional vocalists and actors to doctors, marketing executives, and accountants, reflecting her belief that everyone is inherently creative and can use that creativity to feel more fulfilled in all areas of life. Lauren shares her holistic approach to voice coaching, explaining how challenges like imposter syndrome, perfectionism, emotional suppression, and stress-induced tension show up in the voice and can be worked through in real time. She breaks down how obsessing over outcomes, like fearing a vocal crack, actually creates the tension that leads to mistakes, and how shifting toward breath, relaxation, and a more open mindset often leads to better results. Together, they explore how singing becomes a powerful tool for building self-trust, resilience, and creative confidence, both on stage and in everyday life.   00:00 Welcome to the Show 01:18 Meet Lauren Urso Gray 02:21 Singing as Self Work 04:58 Let Go of Perfectionism 07:25 Resilience Through Mistakes 09:35 Connect With Lauren

In this episode, they chat about: rethinking skincare beyond the face caring for often-overlooked areas (like underarms & inner thighs) confidence, body awareness, and skin acceptance breaking stigma around "taboo" skin concerns building a purpose-driven beauty brand creating inclusive, intentional skincare products   Resources + Links: Want to learn more about Texture? Visit their website at www.textureskin.com Follow them on Social Media: Instagram | @textureskincare   Grow your brand, income, and impact! Learn more on our website ellyandnoracreative.com Connect with Sara on Instagram | @sarachamberscreative @ellyandnoracreative For show notes, resources, and more, visit Chicks Who Give a Hoot Follow along with the podcast on Instagram | @chickswhogiveahoot Get a Free Brand Audit → www.ellyandnoracreative.com/brand-audit   Show Notes: In this episode, Sara talks with Aïda Touré, founder of Texture, a body-care skincare brand focused on "beauty beyond the face," inspired by her own underarm discoloration and the confidence impacts she calls "emotional friction." Aïda explains that skin is a highly sensorial organ that communicates with the brain and reflects stress, emotions, and lifestyle, so real self-care starts beyond topical products. She emphasizes basics like diet ("eat your skincare"), hydration, sleep, sunshine, and movement, and describes her underarm serum as supporting skin function by addressing odor-causing bacteria, healing irritation from shaving or waxing, and gently brightening.   00:00 Welcome to the Show 01:18 Meet Aida Toure 01:57 Beauty Beyond Face 03:44 Skin and Emotions 05:21 Underarm Serum Explained 06:31 Deeper Self Care 08:17 Back to Basics 09:14 Natural Ingredients 09:36 Where to Find Texture

In this episode, Sara talks about: the idea that business and impact shouldn't exist in separate lanes. the origin of Chicks Who Give A Hoot as a podcast amplifying purpose-driven women entrepreneurs. why it later transitioned into a 501(c)(3) nonprofit focused on community impact. the advocacy and impact gap she noticed in traditional entrepreneurial spaces. how women-led businesses can act as "impact engines" that benefit their communities. the success of the first Chicks Who Give A Hoot Live event. this year's event theme, "Bloom Where You're Planted." how the event connects entrepreneurs, sponsors, and nonprofit partners to support community initiatives.   Resources + Links: Want to be part of the impact? Join us at Chicks Who Give A Hoot Live this March 28 and connect with women entrepreneurs, community leaders, and nonprofits working to create meaningful change. Grab your ticket here: https://chickswhogiveahoot.com/live-event-2026 Grow your brand, income, and impact! Learn more on our website ellyandnoracreative.com Connect with Sara on Instagram | @sarachamberscreative @ellyandnoracreative For show notes, resources, and more, visit Chicks Who Give a Hoot Follow along with the podcast on Instagram | @chickswhogiveahoot Get a Free Brand Audit → www.ellyandnoracreative.com/brand-audit   Show Notes: In this solo episode, Sara shares the story behind Chicks Who Give A Hoot and how the podcast evolved into a nonprofit organization dedicated to connecting entrepreneurship with community impact. Reflecting on conversations with women founders, she discusses the "advocacy and impact gap" she noticed in traditional entrepreneurial spaces and why she believes women entrepreneurs are uniquely positioned to drive meaningful change in their communities. She also looks back on the success of the first Chicks Who Give A Hoot Live event and previews this year's gathering on March 28, themed "Bloom Where You're Planted." Designed as a bridge between entrepreneurship and philanthropy, the event brings together women founders, nonprofit organizations, and aligned sponsors to mobilize business influence for community good.   00:00 Welcome to the Show 01:18 Episode Premise 02:00 Why Impact Matters 03:24 From Podcast to Nonprofit 03:57 Live Event Momentum 04:44 Business as Impact Engine 05:47 Bloom Where Planted 06:17 Nonprofit Partner Bridge 07:35 Sparkle Bar Activation 08:51 Bigger Than Growth 09:28 Get Your Ticket 10:14 Conclusion

In this episode, they chat about: why visibility still matters for purpose-driven businesses the unfair access gap in traditional PR how DIY PR evolved into a scalable tech solution what makes Pitch Well different from a simple AI copy tool how the platform helps you pitch podcasts, media, and publications turning one thought leadership idea into PR + content assets affordable access to journalist and podcast databases gamifying outreach so PR becomes consistent and sustainable the Pitch for Good initiative offering free access to nonprofits a special 7-day trial for listeners   Resources + Links: Learn more about Rebecca and her work at www.rebeccacafiero.com Start your visibility journey with PitchWell at www.gopitchwell.com Use code REBECCA7 for a 7-day trial (for non-nonprofits). Follow Rebecca on Social Media: Instagram | @rebeccacafiero LinkedIn | Rebecca Cafiero   Grow your brand, income, and impact! Learn more on our website ellyandnoracreative.com Connect with Sara on Instagram | @sarachamberscreative @ellyandnoracreative For show notes, resources, and more, visit Chicks Who Give a Hoot Follow along with the podcast on Instagram | @chickswhogiveahoot Get a Free Brand Audit → www.ellyandnoracreative.com/brand-audit   Show Notes: In this episode of the Chicks Who Give a Hoot podcast, Sara Chambers welcomes mentor Rebecca Cafiero to discuss PR and why visibility matters for purpose-driven businesses. Rebecca shares her background in journalism, sales, and PR and explains PitchWell, a SaaS "visibility operating system" that uses AI plus built-in processes to help users create pitches in their voice, match with relevant podcasts, and manage outreach without needing PR expertise. The platform includes access to a large contact database (3.8 million podcasts and nearly 10,000 media contacts, with more being added) and is designed to be used in about an hour a week for $97/month. They also highlight Pitch for Good, providing free access for verified nonprofits and veterans, plus live weekly and monthly trainings. A 7-day trial code "REBECCA7" is offered for non-nonprofits. Rebecca Cafiero is a strategic communications expert, media contributor, and founder of a global PR and visibility firm. She helps entrepreneurs, executives, and thought leaders amplify their message through high-impact media placements and authority-building strategies. With a background in international business and years of experience working with global brands and founders, Rebecca is known for blending sharp positioning with authentic storytelling to elevate influence and credibility.   00:00 Welcome to the Show 01:18 Meet Rebecca Cafiero 01:47 Rebecca's Background and Values 02:38 Why PitchWell Exists 04:31 PitchWell Platform Walkthrough 06:29 Contacts Database and Daily PR 08:10 Pitch for Good Free Access 09:35 Trial Code and Final Wrap

In this episode, they chat about: building a values-led vegan business rooted in personal conviction  why authenticity matters when speaking out as a brand owner  handling criticism and standing firm in your beliefs  using business as a platform for advocacy and community impact  creating a safe, supportive space for employees and customers   Resources + Links: The Coronado Address: 2245 N 12th St, Phoenix, AZ 85006 Website: www.thecoronadophx.com Dark Hall Coffee Address: 2243 N 12th St, Phoenix, AZ 85006 Website: www.darkhallcoffee.com Follow Liz on Social Media: Instagram | @liztavarez   Grow your brand, income, and impact! Learn more on our website ellyandnoracreative.com Connect with Sara on Instagram | @sarachamberscreative @ellyandnoracreative For show notes, resources, and more, visit Chicks Who Give a Hoot Follow along with the podcast on Instagram | @chickswhogiveahoot Get a Free Brand Audit → www.ellyandnoracreative.com/brand-audit   Show Notes: In this episode of the Chicks Who Give a Hoot podcast, Sara Chambers chats with Liz Tavarez, co-owner (with her husband Juan) of The Coronado and Dark Hall Coffee in Phoenix, Arizona. Liz shares that they became owners when The Coronado opened in 2015 with partners, and since 2022 she and Juan have been sole owners, with Liz handling much of the behind-the-scenes work. She explains why both businesses are vegan, tracing it to their shift to vegetarianism after rescuing and rehoming dogs and realizing the inconsistency of protecting some animals while eating others, and wanting to save more animals by serving plant-based meals. Liz also discusses the importance of genuine values-based communication, especially on social media, and how authenticity helps when responding to challenges. The conversation touches on their public stance regarding ICE presence in central Phoenix, including posting signage about rights and warrants, marking employees-only areas, and aiming to protect employees and help customers feel safe. Liz notes community support and reciprocity as reasons for standing with the oppressed.   00:00 Welcome to the Show 01:18 Meet Liz Tavarez and Why They Went Vegan 02:15 Authentic Advocacy Online 04:32 Standing Up to ICE 06:33 Community Safety and Solidarity 07:42 Visit The Coronado and Dark Hall Coffee

In this episode, they chat about: why avoiding business structure is often rooted in fear, not capability how burnout can signal it's time to work smarter, not harder the connection between brand positioning and pricing power why confidence often follows action — not the other way around the power of building a platform before you fully embody it   Resources + Links: Learn more about Luxe Baby Custom Newborn Care at www.luxebabycare.com Follow Marisa on Social Media: Instagram | @luxebabycare Facebook | Luxe Baby Custom Newborn Care   Grow your brand, income, and impact! Learn more on our website ellyandnoracreative.com Connect with Sara on Instagram | @sarachamberscreative @ellyandnoracreative For show notes, resources, and more, visit Chicks Who Give a Hoot Follow along with the podcast on Instagram | @chickswhogiveahoot Get a Free Brand Audit → www.ellyandnoracreative.com/brand-audit   Show Notes: In this episode of the Chicks Who Give A Hoot podcast, host Sara Chambers sits down with her former client, Marisa Rodriguez, to talk about what it really takes to step into the next level of your business — especially when you don't yet see yourself as "that kind of person." Together, they unpack the fear behind avoiding structure, the burnout that forces clarity, and the identity shift required to move from skilled practitioner to confident CEO. Marisa shares the turning point that pushed her to stop playing small, invest in elevated positioning, and build a brand that could attract the caliber of clients she knew she was capable of serving. The conversation is an honest look at visibility, vulnerability, and why confidence often follows action — not the other way around. Marisa Rodriguez is the founder of Luxe Baby Custom Newborn Care, a private newborn and postpartum care company serving modern families nationwide. After years of traveling from placement to placement and working primarily through agencies, Marisa made the decision to build a platform that reflected the luxury-level clients she was already supporting. Today, she is expanding into placements, increasing national visibility through media and public speaking, and scaling her business with intention — proving that growth doesn't begin with certainty, but with the willingness to rise to the version of yourself your vision requires.   00:00 Welcome to the Show 01:18 Meet Marisa Rodriguez 01:56 From W-2 Work to LLC 03:14 Burnout, Moving to Phoenix & Choosing a Bigger Platform 04:55 The Professional Glow-Up 06:40 New Opportunities 07:49 Where to Find Marisa

In this episode, they chat about: redefining success beyond hustle culture building a business that aligns with family, values, and real life embracing personal rhythm and steady growth scaling without losing purpose or identity the power of being in the right rooms and communities   Resources + Links: Shop SEE Salt and explore the story behind the brand at www.seesalttaste.com Follow along with Jessica and the SEE Salt journey on Instagram: @seasalttaste   Grow your brand, income, and impact! Learn more on our website ellyandnoracreative.com Connect with Sara on Instagram | @sarachamberscreative @ellyandnoracreative For show notes, resources, and more, visit Chicks Who Give a Hoot Follow along with the podcast on Instagram | @chickswhogiveahoot Get a Free Brand Audit → www.ellyandnoracreative.com/brand-audit   Show Notes: In this episode of the Chicks Who Give A Hoot podcast, host Sara Chambers sits down with her longtime friend Jessica Helgeson to talk about building a business that actually fits your life. Together, they explore redefining success beyond hustle culture, embracing seasonality in business, and why being steady can be just as powerful as scaling fast. Jessica shares honest insights on finding the right communities for growth, maintaining purpose while expanding a brand, and building something meaningful without losing yourself in the process—offering a refreshing perspective for women entrepreneurs focused on substance over hype. Jessica Helgeson is the co-founder of SEE Salt, a French finishing salt company she built alongside her mother using the same mineral-rich salt she grew up with at her family table. For more than a decade, Jessica has led SEE Salt with intention, prioritizing quality, sustainability, and long-term vision while balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship. Her approach proves that success doesn't require burnout—and that it's possible to grow a purpose-driven brand while honoring family, values, and personal rhythm.   00:00 Welcome to the Show 01:18 Meet Jessica Helgeson 02:13 Jessica's Business Journey and Insights 04:55 Scaling and Learning in the CPG Industry 06:40 Community and Validation in Business 08:53 Jessica's Future Goals 10:03 Conclusion and Where to Find Jessica

In this episode, they chat about: why play isn't frivolous—it's a powerful unlock for creativity, clarity, and problem-solving how stepping away from strategy and pressure creates new perspectives and momentum redefining play as joyful, low-stakes moments with no outcome attached why letting yourself "suck" at something builds trust, patience, and creative resilience how romanticizing your life can support sustainable, meaningful work   Resources + Links: Learn more about the Smyth House at www.thesmythhouse.com Follow the Smyth House on social Instagram | @smyth_house TikTok | @smythhouse Connect with Meredith Instagram | @meredithsmyth LinkedIn | Meredith Smyth   Grow your brand, income, and impact! Learn more on our website ellyandnoracreative.com Connect with Sara on Instagram | @sarachamberscreative @ellyandnoracreative For show notes, resources, and more, visit Chicks Who Give a Hoot Follow along with the podcast on Instagram | @chickswhogiveahoot Get a Free Brand Audit → www.ellyandnoracreative.com/brand-audit   Show Notes: In this episode of the Chicks Who Give a Hoot podcast, Sara is joined by long-time friend and fellow creative Meredith Smyth. They discuss their shared journey in the creative realm and delve into the transformative power of creativity and play. Meredith, an experienced professional in the business of ideas and interior design, shares her insight that everyone possesses creativity and highlights how play can unlock innovative thinking and problem-solving. She emphasizes the importance of integrating fun and non-obligatory activities into life to foster a creative mindset. The conversation underscores that engaging in playful endeavors can lead to fresh perspectives and greater efficiency in addressing challenges. Meredith also talks about her work at Smyth House, a luxury interior design firm, and how she helps clients create unique, personalized spaces. Listeners are encouraged to connect with Meredith on social media. The episode is a profound exploration of how play and creativity enrich our lives and thinking processes. Meredith Smyth is a contagious personality in the creative world, known for her unwavering determination and infectious laughter. She is an idea maven and a change maker who believes in the power of transformation. Her luxury interior design firm, Smyth House, is a testament to her leadership skills and community-driven approach. The firm's design work is nothing short of unexpected magic.   00:00 Welcome to the Show 01:18 Meet Meredith Smyth 02:00 Meredith's Journey in Creativity 02:56 The Power of Play in Creativity 06:11 Romanticizing Life Through Creativity 07:13 Embracing Imperfection and Enjoying the Process 08:37 Conclusion and Where to Find Meredith

In this episode, they chat about: why diet culture's all-or-nothing mindset keeps people stuck the psychology behind weight loss and body confidence letting go of perfectionism, shame, and pass/fail thinking treating behavior change as an experiment, not a failure why you don't need to change your body to start living fully   Resources + Links: Visit Lizzie's Website at www.confidentbody.coach Get Lizzie's Book — LIGHT: The New Psychology of Weight Loss https://www.amazon.com/LIGHT-New-Psychology-Weight-Loss/dp/B0GGDZJQZT Connect with Lizzie Instagram | @coachlizzie.merritt LinkedIn | Lizzie Merritt, M.Ed.   Grow your brand, income, and impact! Learn more on our website ellyandnoracreative.com Connect with Sara on Instagram | @sarachamberscreative @ellyandnoracreative For show notes, resources, and more, visit Chicks Who Give a Hoot Follow along with the podcast on Instagram | @chickswhogiveahoot Get a Free Brand Audit → www.ellyandnoracreative.com/brand-audit   Show Notes: In this episode of the Chicks Who Give a Hoot podcast, Sara welcomes guest Lizzie Merritt to discuss the journey of self-discovery and body positivity. Lizzie shares her experiences of overcoming diet culture and learning to love her body through self-acceptance and the scientific method of weight loss. They delve into Lizzie's new book, 'Light: The New Psychology of Weight Loss,' exploring the themes of emotional eating, motivation, and the importance of autonomy in personal health journeys. The conversation emphasizes the need to break free from rigid dieting rules and embrace a more nuanced understanding of body positivity. Lizzie Merritt is a professional weight loss coach dedicated to helping women feel confident in their bodies and believe in themselves again. After struggling with imposter syndrome and countless diets, she discovered that sustainable weight loss isn't just about food and exercise—but about understanding the brain science and psychology that shape our habits. Lizzie's approach blends science, empathy, and individuality to support clients in overcoming hidden barriers and creating lasting change. She's also a Certified Martha Beck Wayfinder Life Coach, Life Coach School–certified coach, and No BS Advanced Certified Weight Loss Coach—and brings her vibrant personality (from superhero fandom to Spartan races!) to every coaching session.   00:00 Welcome to the Show 01:18 Meet Lizzie Merritt 02:27 Lizzie's Journey to Self-Love 03:09 The Inspiration Behind 'You Are a Miracle' 03:53 Introducing 'Light: The New Psychology of Weight Loss' 06:57 The Nuances of Body Positivity and Diet Culture 09:53 Concluding Thoughts and Gratitude

In this episode, Sara talks about: why personal branding matters more heading into 2026 the rise of a "trust recession" AI's impact on credibility and content credibility as the new scarce resource why sameness—not saturation—is the real problem why service providers should not brand like content creators the importance of focus and specialization why aesthetics don't solve trust problems choosing positioning over popularity integrity as a long-term brand advantage the evolution of personal branding   Resources + Links: Grow your brand, income, and impact! Learn more on our website ellyandnoracreative.com Connect with Sara on Instagram | @sarachamberscreative @ellyandnoracreative For show notes, resources, and more, visit Chicks Who Give a Hoot Follow along with the podcast on Instagram | @chickswhogiveahoot Get a Free Brand Audit → www.ellyandnoracreative.com/brand-audit   Show Notes: In this episode of Chicks Who Give a Hoot, Sara delves into why personal branding is becoming a critical asset this 2026, especially in light of the rise of AI and the erosion of trust. The episode discusses a 'trust recession,' differentiates between branding for service providers and content creators, and highlights why positioning is more important than aesthetics for building credibility and income. She also emphasizes the importance of authenticity, deep experience, and intentional branding in a world where content is abundant but credibility is rare.   00:00 Welcome to the Show 01:18 Introduction to Personal Branding in 2026 02:02 The Trust Recession and AI's Impact 03:05 The Importance of Credibility and Reputation 04:49 Service Providers vs. Content Creators 07:12 The Pitfalls of Relying on Aesthetics 08:00 The Power of Positioning 08:41 Final Thoughts on Personal Branding