Advertise on podcast: Life with Loverly with Brittany Sjogren

In this special episode, I sit down with my dear friend Laura Whitaker, CEO of ESP (Extra Special People) and author of the upcoming book, The Joy Exchange. Laura has spent 20 years creating inclusive communities and learning unconventional leadership principles from the very people her organization serves—individuals with disabilities and their families. Laura Whitaker is the visionary leader behind ESP, a nonprofit that creates transformative experiences for people with disabilities across multiple communities. After two decades in leadership, she's distilled her most powerful insights into a book that challenges us all to exchange awkwardness for awe and hesitation for hospitality. This conversation goes far beyond traditional leadership advice. Laura shares raw, honest stories about her biggest mistakes, most humiliating moments, and the breakthrough realizations that changed everything. From skydiving fundraisers to coffee shop hugs, she reveals how authentic human connection creates the kind of joy we're all searching for. Here are 5 key insights you can expect from this conversation: Exchange awkwardness for awe by leaning into uncomfortable situations instead of pulling back. Practice radical hospitality that extends warmth and welcome to everyone, regardless of ability. Find courage in vulnerability by sharing your leadership struggles and learning from failure. Create inclusive environments where children naturally learn to value differences and celebrate uniqueness. Experience the joy exchange by delighting in others and discovering how giving actually becomes receiving. Whether you're leading a team, raising children, or simply wanting to connect more authentically with those around you, Laura's insights will challenge you to see leadership—and life—through fresh eyes. The Joy Exchange is available for pre-order now through February 17th, with all proceeds supporting ESP's mission to serve families at no cost. PreOrder The Joy Exchange on here: https://www.laurahopewhitaker.com/thejoyexchange Follow Laura here: https://www.instagram.com/laurahopewhitaker/# Listen to my previous episode with Laura here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3htMp2zo5pATiNYvQBDPwC

Get ready for some exciting news! In this special and unfiltered season finale episode, I'm thrilled to share a major life update with you. If you've been following along on Instagram, you might already know - we're expecting baby number three! Join me as I dive into all the details of this incredible journey. From the moment we found out to how we shared the news with our family, I'm taking you behind the scenes of this new chapter in our lives. What you'll discover in this episode: The unexpected way we discovered we were pregnant  Our family's joyful reactions to the news How this pregnancy compares to my previous experiences  The gender reveal of baby #3  My thoughts on balancing entrepreneurship with motherhood  A sneak peek into our nursery plans A journey of hope and gratitude After experiencing two miscarriages and going through IVF, this pregnancy feels like a beautiful miracle. I'm opening up about the emotions, challenges, and moments of pure joy that have come with this experience. Fashion and style during pregnancy As a fashion lover, I'm sharing how I'm adapting my style for this new season of life. From comfortable work-from-home looks to chic maternity outfits, I'm dishing out tips on staying true to your personal style while accommodating a growing bump. Looking ahead While we're taking a brief break from the podcast, I'm already excited about what's in store for next season. We've got some amazing guests lined up, and who knows - we might even have a special little co-host joining us! Thank you for being part of this journey with me. Your support means the world, and I can't wait to share more of this beautiful chapter with you all. Follow along until next season!!  https://www.instagram.com/lifewithloverly/  

Let's discover the captivating world of mahjong with Dallas powerhouse Molly Hardy, better known as Mahjong Molly. As one of the fastest-rising mahjong educators on Instagram, Molly is transforming this ancient tile game into colorful, contagious moments of joy and strategy. In this episode, we explore the fascinating journey of how Molly turned her passion for mahjong into a thriving teaching business. From explaining the basics of the game to sharing advanced strategies, Molly offers invaluable insights for both beginners and experienced players. Learn the basics of the game and why it's become so popular Discover how to approach building your first hand Gain insights into the role of jokers, flowers, and dragons in enhancing your gameplay Tips for playing with two or three people, Explore the world of mahjong tournaments and how they're shaping the community Whether you're a curious newcomer or a seasoned player looking to refine your skills, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge to enhance your mahjong experience. Molly's passion for the game shines through as she shares her expertise and personal journey, inspiring listeners to embrace the joy and strategy of mahjong. Molly's Mahjong guide can be found here  Follow Molly here! @mahjongmolly  For 3 weeks of free play, used code Molly at www.ilovemahj.com For an affordable starter kit, head here  Learn more about the Mahjong Line: https://themahjongline.com/ Rules on how to play: https://themahjongline.com/pages/how-to-play-mahjong  Little Mahj for kids or beginners: https://themahjongline.com/products/lil-mahj-playing-card Head here for your Nippies and use code 20LOVERLYG for 20% off Head below for all your Re Lyte needs and use code LOVERLY20 for 20% off: Re-lyte: https://amzlink.to/az0OPgAuavIcZ Real Salt: https://amzlink.to/az0n5g5LKnMkb

Brittany sat down with Karina Reske from Karina Style Diaries for an intimate conversation about faith, family, and fashion. Karina opens up about her journey from Brazil to the United States, sharing how a chance encounter led to love and a new life. The pair dive deep into Karina's experience as a mother, discussing the challenging times her family faced during her daughter's struggle with addiction, Karina's raw honesty and unwavering faith shine through as she recounts the difficult decisions, and transformative moments that ultimately led to healing and hope. What you'll learn in this episode: Tips for elevating your wardrobe without starting from scratch How Karina's faith sustained her family through their darkest times The power of setting boundaries and sticking to them, even when it's tough Insights on balancing work as an influencer with personal struggles The importance of finding your authentic style and dressing for comfort   Join us for an episode filled with vulnerability, wisdom, and style inspiration. Karina's story reminds us that with faith and perseverance, we can overcome even the most daunting obstacles and emerge stronger on the other side.   Follow Karina here: https://www.instagram.com/karinastylediaries/ Listen to her podcast here: http://instagram.com/karinafaithdiaries/ JS Health Code!! https://us.jshealthvitamins.com/ and use code LOVERLY20 for 20% off. Links from the episode: What Brittany recently purchased from Karina's LTK:  Pieces Karina is loving: Baggy Jeans, Mother Full Pipe: https://bit.ly/3Hmftcn  Cashmere Quince: https://bit.ly/436n9aK https://bit.ly/3DU60ra What Karina packed for Italy   

From growing up as a first-generation Latina in Fort Worth to becoming a powerhouse TV host and style expert, Lilliana Vazquez's journey is a testament to grit, vision, and owning your worth. In this episode, we dive deep into Lilliana's inspiring story, exploring her transition from the Today show to E! News, and her bold decision to pivot out of television to build her own brand. Today, Brittany is chatting with Lilliana about: How Lilliana's upbringing shaped her drive and determination The pivotal moment she decided to bet on herself and pursue her passion Her transition from the Today Show to E! News and beyond The challenges and triumphs of building a personal brand Balancing motherhood, marriage, and a thriving career Whether you're considering a career pivot, struggling with imposter syndrome, or simply looking for a dose of motivation, Lilliana's story will remind you that with passion and perseverance, anything is possible. So, are you ready to be inspired and take charge of your own story? Follow Lilliana here! https://www.instagram.com/lillianavazquez/  

Are you feeling drained and struggling to maintain your energy throughout the day? In this episode, I sit down with nutritionist and JS Health founder Jess Sepel to explore practical nutrition tips and supplement suggestions that can help you become your most energized self. Jess shares her personal journey from extreme fad dieting to embracing a balanced, whole-food approach to nutrition. She offers valuable insights on: The importance of gut health and how to support your microbiome Essential blood work markers to monitor for optimal health The magic of magnesium and how to choose the right type Strategies for combating the afternoon energy slump Creating an effective wind-down routine for better sleep Jess also discusses her top wellness products and provides guidance on supplement use during pregnancy and postpartum. Whether you're looking to boost your energy, improve your sleep, or simply optimize your overall health, this conversation is packed with actionable advice from a trusted expert in the field. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from Jess's expertise and discover simple yet effective ways to support your body's natural vitality. Tune in now to start your journey towards a more energized and balanced life! Follow Jess here! https://www.instagram.com/jshealth/ Head to https://us.jshealthvitamins.com/ and use code LOVERLY20 for 20% off. About Jess: Jess Sepel is a clinical nutritionist, best-selling author, and founder of JS Health Vitamins. With a passion for helping women achieve balance and well-being, Jess has transformed her own struggles with fad dieting into a mission to educate and empower others through evidence-based nutrition and lifestyle practices.

Building a loyal, engaged audience is the cornerstone of any successful online business. It's not just about amassing followers; it's about creating genuine connections and trust. In today's special episode, Brittany is re-releasing an interview from 2022 where she was the guest on another podcast, Allie Reeve's All In with Allie Podcast [previously the Six Figure Influencer podcast]. This episode was so fun, that Brittany wanted to also share it with you here. So if you've ever wondered how to build and grow an engaged and loyal following - this one's for you. The pair chat about: How Brittany balanced her blog with a full-time corporate job The moment she knew it was time to go all-in on her influencer career Strategies for building an insanely engaged and trusting audience Managing a growing team and delegating effectively Taking regular vacations while running a thriving business Whether you're an aspiring influencer or a seasoned entrepreneur, Brittany's insights will inspire you to take your business to the next level. Get ready for an honest, eye-opening conversation that will change how you approach building your brand online. Follow Allie here: https://www.instagram.com/allieireeves

Ever wondered about the voice behind your favorite audiobooks, like Emily Henry or Abby Jimenez novels? Get ready for a fascinating peek behind the curtain with Julia Whelan, often called the "Adele of audiobooks." She has narrated everything from gripping thrillers to heartwarming romances.  Her talent has brought characters to life in bestsellers like "Gone Girl" and Emily Henry's beloved rom-coms. In this episode, we're exploring the captivating world of audiobook narration and the journey from page to earbuds. Julia shares: Her transition from child actor to award-winning narrator,  The intricate process of preparing for a narration, from character voices to pronunciation guides How narrators prepare for different genres and characters The challenges and joys of narrating your own novel [she's an author, too!] Julia's groundbreaking venture, Audiobrary, revolutionizing the audiobook industry A bit more about Audiobrary: Audiobook narrators typically don't receive royalties for their work, regardless of how successful the book becomes. Julia's mission with Audiobrary is to change this industry standard and ensure fair compensation for narrators. Whether you're an avid audiobook listener, an aspiring narrator, or simply curious about the process, this episode offers valuable insights into the art and business of audiobook creation. Julia's passion for storytelling shines through as she shares her experiences and vision for the future of audio publishing. So plug in your earbuds and join us for an engaging conversation that might just change the way you listen to your next audiobook! Follow Julia Here: https://www.instagram.com/justjuliawhelan/ Hop on the Audiobrary newsletter: https://audiobrary.com/  

Motherhood, friendship, and the chaos of everyday life - we're diving into it all with Kate Strickler, the creative force behind Naptime Kitchen on Instagram, with a community of over 300k. As a mom of four and author of "I Just Wish I Had a Bigger Kitchen and Other Lies I Think Will Make Me Happy," Kate brings her refreshing honesty and practical wisdom to our conversation. The 3 questions Kate asks herself when she starts comparing her motherhood journey to someone else's How a simple shift in thinking about time—from productivity to presence—helped her find more peace in her day-to-day What it really looks like to hold onto your identity outside of motherhood Kate's honest take on building a brand online—and the emotional side of showing up on social media Her favorite low-effort summer meal that keeps everyone (including her) happy Join us for a heartwarming, honest, and often humorous look at modern motherhood. We hope you'll walk away feeling understood, inspired, and maybe even a little less alone in your parenting journey. Follow Kate here: https://www.instagram.com/naptimekitchen Preorder her book here!

Get ready to be inspired by Chloee Huseman, the creative force behind Retail Cheapskate on Instagram, as she shares her journey from corporate life to becoming a successful fashion influencer. In this episode, we pull back the curtain on the world of affordable fashion content creation. Chloee opens up about her early days of hiding her face in posts, the moment she decided to take the leap into full-time influencing, and how she balances being visible online while protecting her family's privacy. We are chatting: The power of consistency in growing a loyal following How to transition from a corporate job to full-time content creation Strategies for creating engaging content that resonates with your audience Tips for making budget-friendly fashion look high-end Balancing personal life and online presence as an influencer Whether you're an aspiring influencer or simply love fashion on a budget, this episode is packed with tangible insights both women have learned over the years. Chloee's journey proves that with consistency, authenticity, and a clear vision, you can build a successful online presence that resonates with your audience. Follow Chloee here: https://www.instagram.com/retailcheapskate Links from Episode: $7 Vitamin C Serum  Covergirl Lipbalm  Bloom Energy   

As women, we often find ourselves juggling multiple roles - entrepreneur, mom, friend, partner - and it can feel overwhelming to prioritize our health and wellness amidst the chaos. Join me as I sit down with Caroline Ward, former UGA gymnast, mom of three, and founder of Transfit, a faith-based fitness studio. Caroline shares her journey from college athlete to accountant to fitness entrepreneur, offering valuable insights on following God's calling and finding purpose in unexpected places. Tune in to hear: Caroline's story of hearing God's voice in an unexpected moment Advice on balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship Remembering why movement is a form of worship Top fitness tips for women, including weightlifting and running advice Simple and sustainable nutrition tips Practical Advice You'll Gain: The importance of protein in women's diets How to balance healthy carbs and fats Tips for supporting gut health The benefits of using a weighted vest Creating an ideal exercise program for women Whether you're a fitness enthusiast, a busy mom, or an aspiring entrepreneur, this episode offers something for everyone. Caroline's wisdom on intentional living, self-care, and faith-driven business will leave you feeling motivated and equipped to take on your own challenges.   Follow Caroline here! Listen to her podcast here! Visit her website here! And check out her app, TransFit Personal Training !   Products from the episode: CRZ yoga leggings  CRZ Yoga Tank  LuLu Align Line  LuLu Fast and Free Leggings  Workout Gloves  Weighted Vest   

Balancing motherhood, finding your personal style, and overcoming perfectionism – these are just a few of the topics I explore in this heartfelt conversation with fashion and lifestyle influencer Brooke Jensen. Brooke, known to her followers as "The Broke Brooke," shares her journey from CPA to successful content creator, offering valuable insights for aspiring influencers and busy moms alike. We discuss the challenges of running a business while raising a family, and how to stay true to yourself in the ever-changing world of social media. We dive into: How Brooke transitioned from corporate life to full-time influencing The importance of community and collaboration in the influencer industry Tips for finding your personal style as a busy mom Strategies for overcoming perfectionism and just "posting it" The power of saying "no" and prioritizing what truly matters   Throughout our conversation, Brooke offers her personal experience on everything from finding the perfect Amazon purchases to the importance of saying "no" to maintain balance in your life. Her journey is a testament to the power of following your passion and the incredible opportunities that can arise when you take that leap of faith. Join us as we explore the intersection of motherhood, style, and entrepreneurship in the digital age. Follow Brooke here! Check out her blog here! Hit your health goals with a personal telehealth dietitian from Nourish! Click here to learn more: nourish.pxf.io/zxB4Jx Links from the episode!! Steamer: https://amzlink.to/az0UcfRJBCgMY  Brooke's Perfume: https://amzlink.to/az0KFjD0rSMTn

From humble beginnings in a cramped warehouse to revolutionizing the luxury resale market, Julie Wainwright's journey with The RealReal is nothing short of inspiring. In this candid conversation, Julie shares the ups and downs of building a multimillion-dollar business from scratch. Tune in to hear: How Julie turned a chance encounter at a consignment shop into a game-changing business idea The pivotal role Julie's father played in shaping her entrepreneurial spirit How she leveraged celebrity partnerships to catapult The RealReal's success How Julie flipped the script on failure after the Pets.com experience Strategies for evaluating business ideas and timing your moves   Julie also discusses her latest venture, Ahara, and her passion for personalized nutrition. Learn how she's applying her entrepreneurial expertise to revolutionize another industry. Whether you're a fashion enthusiast, a budding entrepreneur, or simply curious about the inner workings of a successful startup, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration.  About Julie Wainwright: A serial entrepreneur and business visionary, Julie founded The RealReal in 2011, transforming the luxury resale market. With her latest venture, Ahara, she's now tackling personalized nutrition, continuing her mission to innovate and disrupt traditional industries. Purchase Julie's book, Time to Get Real, here! RELYTE HYDRATION. Buy your salt and hydration items with code LOVERLY20 for 20% off! Re-Lyte - https://amzlink.to/az017bMpbEPP2 Real Salt - hhttps://amzlink.to/az0Uy0v3cFkR0  

Join me as I take you on an exclusive journey through the creation of my Hermoza Collection! In this episode, I'm joined by my brand manager, Allie, to give you an insider's look at the world of influencer marketing and brand partnerships. We'll discuss: 🏖️ My Hermoza Collection: 11 stunning pieces including swimwear and resort wear The inspiration behind the designs Our favorite moments from the photo shoot in 30a 🤝 Brand Partnerships: How deals are negotiated What success looks like for collaborations The importance of trust and accountability 👩‍💼 Allie's Career Journey: Her path in influencer marketing The evolution of the industry Advice for aspiring managers   Whether you're a fashion enthusiast, aspiring influencer, or curious about the business side of content creation, this episode offers valuable insights into the ever-changing world of digital marketing and brand collaborations. Don't miss out on this behind-the-scenes look at the Hermoza Collection and the people who make it all happen! Shop the collection here! https://thehermoza.com/collections/loverly-grey

Lace up your running shoes and join me as I sit down with my husband, Chris, to discuss his incredible journey to becoming a Six Star Finisher in the Abbott World Marathon Majors. From his first marathon in Chicago to crossing the finish line in Boston, Chris shares the ups and downs of his six-year quest to conquer the world's most prestigious marathons. In this heartfelt conversation, we explore: How a spectator experience at the New York City Marathon sparked Chris's passion for running The challenges of balancing marathon training with family life and work commitments The importance of proper nutrition and hydration in endurance running Chris's most memorable moments from each of the six major marathons The emotional significance of completing the Six Star journey in Boston But this episode isn't just about running. We also discuss: How setting and achieving ambitious goals can shape personal growth The impact of Chris's dedication on our relationship and family dynamics Valuable lessons learned about discipline, perseverance, and self-belief Tips for aspiring runners and goal-setters As we approach Father's Day, Chris also shares his insights on meaningful gifts for the special dads in your life, emphasizing experiences and items that align with personal passions. Whether you're a seasoned runner, a curious beginner, or simply someone looking for inspiration to pursue your dreams, this episode offers valuable insights and a touching look at the power of commitment and support in achieving extraordinary feats. Follow Chris here! https://www.instagram.com/csjogren34/ Here are all the links from today's episode! Coach Nick Klastava: https://www.instagram.com/nklastava Nutritionist - Kylee Van Horn https://www.instagram.com/flynutrition3 Bloodwork - Inside Tracker https://bit.ly/3X9m8MH Sweat Test - Levelen https://www.levelen.com/shop/ FATHER'S DAY GIFT IDEAS: Loafers https://bit.ly/4kclOFd https://bit.ly/42WHejR https://bit.ly/4jmsaBb Sneakers https://bit.ly/42VxtCy https://bit.ly/3YJZzhF Hobbies https://bit.ly/4deQWS4 https://bit.ly/43gZH9A https://bit.ly/4j2Fw56 Clothes https://bit.ly/43gZH9A https://bit.ly/3ZjGhQd https://bit.ly/4j0Erel https://bit.ly/3AqsluJ https://bit.ly/4hAfUwJ https://bit.ly/3GW4dD9