Two Besties with a Mic

This week, the Besties sit down with Clark Heady, a massage therapist and our personal encyclopedia of bodywork. Clark brings a blend of science, intuition, and real-life experience that makes you rethink everything you thought you knew about your body. From how fascia actually works, to why our daily habits shape the way we feel, to living in a small town with two very opinionated chihuahuas, Clark shares his journey with honesty, humor, and the kind of depth that makes you feel seen and understood.In this episode, you’ll learn:The foundational science behind effective bodywork techniquesHow intuition and empathy play a role in healingClark’s personal journey and what inspired him to pursue bodyworkPractical tips for both practitioners and clients to get the most out of each sessionThe importance of integrating mind, body, and spirit for holistic wellnessWhether you’re a seasoned bodyworker, a curious client, or someone interested in the healing arts, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration.Connect with Clark Heady:Book through his website at Massage with ClarkCall or text: 315-778-1317Connect with the BestiesYou can also follow Devan and Kelsey for more unfiltered conversations about real life, motherhood, and building a life on your terms on their Instagram ⁠@twobestieswithamic⁠If you loved this episode, share it with your bestie, leave a review, and don’t forget to hit subscribe. All episodes are available on ⁠Spotify⁠  & ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠.

This week marks a major milestone — the 50th episode of Two Besties with a Mic!To celebrate, the Besties sit down with Shanae Wiseman — a mom, wife, entrepreneur, and realtor — to talk about what it means to rebuild yourself through every season of life.From becoming a mom at just 15 to building a successful creative business and now thriving in real estate, Shanae’s story is one of resilience, courage, and learning to put yourself back on the list.She opens up about her early years as a teen mom, surviving an abusive relationship, finding love and stability, and how she learned to trust the process as her life evolved. Shanae shares what it’s like to juggle motherhood, marriage, and a growing business — all while rediscovering who she is beyond the labels of wife and mom.This episode is a powerful reminder that it’s okay to be selfish, to want something for yourself, and to chase independence even after years of putting everyone else first. Shanae’s journey shows that finding your identity after motherhood isn’t losing who you were — it’s uncovering who you’ve always been.Connect with Shanae Wiseman:Instagram: @shanaewithlakeontariorealtyFacebook: Shanae Wiseman Licensed Real Estate Assoc. Broker TikTok: @shanaewisemanrealestateConnect with Us:If you loved this episode, share it with your bestie, leave a review, and don’t forget to hit subscribe. All episodes are available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.Follow Devan and Kelsey for more unfiltered conversations about real life, motherhood, and building a life on your terms on Instagram at @twobestieswithamic.

In this milestone episode, the Besties welcome their first-ever male guest, Kevin Cross, financial advisor and co-founder of Previs Wealth (and Kelsey’s cousin!). Together, they dive into money mindset, financial literacy, and how to build security without shame — all through honest, easy-to-understand conversations.From Kelsey’s early “new mom on a budget” story to Kevin’s practical tips for saving, debt, and planning for the future, this episode takes the fear out of finances and replaces it with confidence, strategy, and a little humor.Key Topics & Highlights:Starting from Zero: How Kelsey’s financial journey began with one tough-love conversation that changed everything.The Five Building Blocks of Financial Health: Kevin’s simple, approachable steps for budgeting, saving, managing debt, and planning long-term.Debt Talk (Without the Shame): The difference between “good” and “bad” debt — and why credit cards can be both.Retirement & Future Planning: Why starting small now matters more than waiting until it’s “the right time.”Women & Money: Breaking through old gender norms in finance and encouraging more women to take the lead.Life, Legacy, and Family: How to prepare for the unexpected — from wills and insurance to protecting your loved ones.Entrepreneurship & Flexibility: Balancing self-employment, parenting, and finances in real life.Tune in forReal, relatable money talk — no jargon requiredSimple financial strategies that actually workA fresh perspective on wealth, balance, and parenthoodThe Besties’ signature mix of humor, honesty, and heartConnect with KevinKevin Cross | Previs WealthWebsite: previswealth.comInstagram & Facebook: @PrevisWealthLinkedIn: Previs WealthConnect with the Besties Instagram | Spotify | Apple PodcastsListen now for practical money wisdom, plenty of laughs, and the reminder that financial wellness is for everyone.

In this reflective episode, Kelsey and Devan explore The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz—a small but powerful book that has shaped their personal growth, relationships, and self-awareness journeys. From overcoming self-judgment to practicing authenticity, the besties break down how these timeless teachings can transform everyday life.Key Topics & Highlights:The Dream of the Planet: How inherited beliefs and generational “agreements” shape the way we see ourselves—and why it’s worth questioning them.Mistakes & Self-Judgment: Why humans punish themselves over and over, and how breaking that cycle can bring more emotional freedom.The Four Agreements in Action:Be impeccable with your word — The power of language, truth, and self-talk.Don’t take anything personally — Remembering that other people’s behavior is about them, not you.Don’t make assumptions — Replacing stories with clarity, communication, and curiosity.Always do your best — Redefining “your best” as flexible, intentional, and rooted in self-compassion.Everyday Practice: How Devan and Kelsey use these teachings in relationships, parenting, business, and personal growth—plus the reality of still messing up sometimes and trying again.Memorable Quotes:“Your word can create the most beautiful dream, or your word can destroy everything around you.”“When someone snaps at you or judges you, that’s about them—not you.”“Doing your best is about effort and intention, not perfection.”Tune in for:A beginner-friendly breakdown of The Four AgreementsHonest stories of applying (and struggling with) these principlesLaughter, real talk, and encouragement to live with more self-awareness and compassion.Connect with Us:Instagram | Spotify | Apple PodcastsWhether you’ve read the book or not, this episode will leave you with practical tools to create a more intentional, joyful life. Buy the book today! Listen now and join the conversation about living the four agreements in your own life!

Kelsey and Devan dive deep into the realities of entrepreneurship, personal growth, and the importance of authenticity in business and life. The conversation kicks off with Devan’s wild story about her car being stolen and recovered, and the emotional rollercoaster of dealing with unexpected life events—including a health scare with her dog.Key Topics & Highlights:Letting Go of Others’ Blueprints: Both hosts reflect on the moment they realized they were chasing someone else’s version of success, and how embracing their own paths led to greater fulfillment.Authenticity in Branding: Kelsey and Devan share stories about trying to fit into industry molds, from pastel branding to adopting personas that didn’t feel true to themselves, and how they eventually found confidence in just being themselves.Healing Through Business: The hosts discuss how entrepreneurship has helped them heal old wounds, build self-worth, and break free from people-pleasing and comparison traps.Rebuilding from Scratch: If they had to start over, both would focus on local community, intentional branding, and setting boundaries early—plus, the importance of flexibility for family and life changes.Unlearning and Growth: The episode explores the necessity of unlearning people-pleasing, setting boundaries, and making business fit life (not the other way around).Failures and Flops: Devan and Kelsey talk about “shoulds” that flopped, why failure isn’t the end, and how every experience—good or bad—offers a lesson.Advice to Their Past Selves: Trust your gut, don’t chase someone else’s framework, and remember: there’s no single blueprint for success.Memorable Quotes:“Your business should fit your life, not the other way around.”“Stop trying to use other people’s frameworks just exactly as is. Learn from their lessons, but try it for yourself.”“If you fail, just try again. It’s not the end all be all.”Tune in for:Honest stories about business and lifePractical advice for entrepreneurs and creativesLaughter, real talk, and a reminder that you’re not alone in figuring it all outConnect with us today: Instagram | Spotify | Apple PodcastsListen now and join the conversation about burning the blueprint and building a business—and a life—that’s truly your own!

It’s just the two of us today — catching up on life, spilling some tea, and serving up the kind of unfiltered advice that could probably get us banned from a PTA meeting. We’re talking spirit guides (yes, actual ghosts), the crimes of soggy fries, and why some people need to hear “leave his ass” loud and clear.Devan shares big, emotional updates: her kids’ adoption is official after a three-year journey, a trip to see her grandfather after his cancer diagnosis, and an unexpected, goosebump-inducing seance experience that connected her with family on the other side.Kelsey’s life update includes buying a house, staying booked and busy with business, making intentional time for family this summer, and starting therapy.Then we dive into:A Leave His Ass segment you won’t want to miss — featuring a Fort Drum spouse, a husband who filed separation papers behind her back, and our unfiltered advice on dignity, resources, and legal rights.Our brand new game: “Things That Should Be Illegal But Aren’t.” From people who say “yum-yums” to public speakerphone calls, not returning shopping carts, men saying “females,” and soggy fries, we decide whether these offenders should get a pass… or go straight to jail.It’s part deep, heartfelt life talk, part spicy advice, and part laugh-until-you-snort commentary — in other words, classic Two Besties with a Mic.Come hang out with us:IG: @TwoBestiesWithAMic

In this episode, Devan and Kelsey sit down with Sarah MacFarland, the powerhouse owner behind Chrissy Beans, a beloved bakery and café with locations in Sackets Harbor and Watertown, NY. Sarah shares her inspiring journey from working at Chrissy Beans as a teenager to unexpectedly becoming its owner years later during the height of the pandemic.From bold business moves to balancing motherhood, marriage, and mental health, Sarah opens up about:How a spontaneous "yes" (and a job layoff) led her into entrepreneurshipThe evolution from small-town barista to small-business ownerBuilding community through coffee, crafts, and open mic nightsHer unexpected transition from corporate life to café cultureCultivating a team-first, supportive staff cultureLosing pieces of herself in the process—and the work of reclaiming her identityPlus, we talk about the importance of solitude, the power of self-awareness, and why it's okay to want more—even when everything looks perfect on paper.Hot Topics We Covered:Growing a local brand while raising a familyCreating safe, inclusive spaces in small townsWhy peer-to-peer feedback and non-hierarchical leadership matterThat one sandwich that changed Devan’s life (hint: apples included)Self-worth, burnout, and the myth of “having it all together”Flash Round Highlights:Guilty pleasure? True crime.Favorite hype song? "Unstoppable" by Sia.Bucket list? A mother-daughter trip to Woodstock.Quote she lives by? “Fresh air and sunshine.”Special Mentions & Shoutouts:Weekly and monthly events at Chrissy Beans: Trivia Nights, Craft Meetups, and Open Mic TuesdaysThe upcoming Elevate Summit in Watertown (November 7–9, 2025)Visit Chrissy Beans:Sackets Harbor: Next to the post officeWatertown: Washington Street, in the plazaFollow Chrissy Beans for event updates:Instagram | Facebook | WebsiteWant more raw, real conversations like this one?Make sure you're subscribed to Two Besties with a Mic. Leave us a review, tag us in your stories, and tell us what resonated most with you from this episode.

Ever wondered what Human Design actually is and why everyone seems to be talking about it? In this episode, Devan and Kelsey sit down with Human Design expert Anna Kinney to break it all down.Anna shares how Human Design can help you better understand yourself, your energy, and how you move through the world. She also opens up about her own journey of shedding old identities, building her business, and what it really means to live in alignment.We cover:The biggest myths about Human Design (and what’s actually true)Common mistakes people make when reading their chartHow Human Design can validate your natural strengths and help you find your flowWhy “waiting for the invitation” doesn’t mean sitting around doing nothingThe deeper magic of deconditioning and trusting your own energyWhether you’re brand new to Human Design or already know your type, this episode is packed with insights that will help you use the tool in a way that actually fits your life.Connect with Anna: https://annawithintention.love/Get your free Human Design chart directly on her site!Follow Two Besties with a Mic:Instagram: @twobestieswithamic

This week, the Besties sit down with Ashley Young. A mom, wife, and founder of Fizzy and Free to talk about what it means to ditch the nightly wine ritual and find yourself again in the chaos of motherhood.Ashley opens up about her journey from being a nightly drinker to finding sobriety, peace, and purpose. She shares the real-life challenges of being a mom in a wine-obsessed world, how she landed in the hospital from a 12-day bender, and what finally pushed her to stop hitting reset and start building something better. Not just for herself but for other moms who feel like they’re drowning in expectations and the overwhelming chaos of motherhood.Expect honest conversations about:The sneaky way alcohol becomes part of a mom’s identityThe pressure of "mommy wine culture" and social media highlight reelsCreating small, sustainable change vs. all-or-nothing thinkingHow to support yourself (or a friend) when stuck in the “Day One” cycleWhat freedom really looks like after alcoholPlus, hear how Fizzy and Free was born, how Lisa Frank inspired Ashley’s branding, and why sometimes a sticker on your body (or a bowl of M&Ms) is the dopamine hit you need.Highlights from this episode:Ashley’s candid take on postpartum expectations and losing yourself in motherhoodDevan and Kelsey’s reflections on foster parenting, early intervention, and navigating “mom guilt”The magic of Annie Grace’s This Naked Mind and the science behind alcohol cravingsFlash round fun (including Ashley’s Imagine Dragons hype songs and guilty pleasure desserts)Connect with Ashley Young:Instagram & Facebook: @fizzyandfreeSign Up for Ashley's Free Workshop on August 1st: Stop Hitting Reset — 5 Tools to Break the Nightly Wine CycleIf you loved this episode, share it with your bestie, leave a review, and don’t forget to hit subscribe. All episodes are available on Spotify & Apple Podcasts.You can also follow Devan and Kelsey for more unfiltered conversations about real life, motherhood, and building a life on your terms on their Instagram @twobestieswithamic

This week, Devan and Kelsey are joined by not one, but two incredible guests: Destiny of Wild Roots and Stephanie of Cosmic Feels. Together, they form The Return, a soul-led collaboration that blends wellness, energy work, and survivor advocacy into community offerings rooted in healing and connection.Inside this Episode:How Destiny and Stephanie met (yes, in a rainstorm, surrounded by crystals)The origin of The Return and its mission to bring self-care and healing into shelters, conferences, and local spacesThe transformative power of sound healing, astrology, and intentional sisterhoodThe behind-the-scenes of their chakra series and how it became a gateway for deeper self-awareness and growthHonest conversations about money, guilt, and the emotional labor of womenKelsey and Devan feeling wildly seen by their guest doppelgängersPlus:The truth about tuning forks, buffalo drums, and the vagus nerveSound healing isn’t just “woo”—it’s science and intentionWhy investing in healing matters just as much as a new sofaWhat healing really means (spoiler: it’s not a destination)Connect With The Guests:Destiny – Wild Roots Wellness & RevivalOffers sound healing, group meditations, and pop-upsLocations in Theresa, Watertown, and surrounding areasFollow: Wild Roots Wellness & Revival on FacebookStephanie – Cosmic FeelsAstrology readings, crystal jewelry, tuning fork + Reiki sessionsAvailable at the Wellness Crystal CottageFollow: Instagram – @cosmic_feelsFacebook – Cosmic Feels Podcast – Cosmic Beauty (Available on IG @cosmicbeautypod)Together, they also lead The Return, offering trauma-informed, accessible wellness for shelters, organizations, and beyond.Don't forget!Grab your Elevate Summit 2025 ticket today! Happening November 7–9 in Watertown, NY. Because sisterhood, healing, and bold moves aren’t just nice-to-haves—they’re necessary.

This week, the besties are joined by the vibrant and resilient April Bennett—foster mom, community advocate, cooking instructor, and now, aspiring coach. From chasing dreams in New York City to building a non-traditional family through foster care, April shares how she redefined success, love, and self-worth on her own terms.In this episode, we cover:How April went from acting to culinary school to community engagementWhat it was like becoming a single foster mom of fiveThe unexpected joy and chaos of raising kids across all ages—from toddlers to teensReclaiming identity after burnout and finding herself again post-COVIDThe role of therapy, coaching, and creative outlets in her healing processLaunching Time to Thrive, her new coaching and cooking class businessFinding love unexpectedly—and learning to stay open to new versions of lifeHow to hold space for your own dreams while showing up for othersQuote of the Episode: "Leap—and the net will appear." —April BennettBook Recommendation: Untamed by Glennon Doyle — a powerful read on authenticity, identity, and choosing yourself.Connect with April:New coaching business: Thyme to Thrive (coming soon)Local cooking classes at the YMCA’s community kitchen in WatertownServing as Director of Programming for Take Up Space FoundationSave the Date: The United Way’s Race Against Poverty is happening September 27 in downtown Watertown. A high-energy, team-based challenge inspired by The Amazing Race, this event raises funds for anti-poverty initiatives while celebrating local businesses and community connection.Listen now to hear how April turned the “messy middle” into a launchpad for joy, growth, and connection. Available on Spotify or Apple Podcasts! Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!

This week on Two Besties with a Mic, Devan and Kelsey welcome their #1 hype woman, queso queen, and real-life bestie, Barb Perez! It’s a heartfelt, hilarious, and honest convo about what it really means to show up for each other—especially when things get messy.In this episode:Meet Barb Perez and hear how she became part of the Two Besties crewThe story behind the homemade queso (Barb's love language)What real friendship looks like as we grow (and grieve)The difference between being raw and being realWhy curated openness isn’t the same as true vulnerabilityHow to recognize sneaky control and people-pleasing tendenciesSitting in the dark with your people, literally and emotionallyPlus: Devan’s weekend daughter, Barb’s legendary quotes, and the vacuum that stole the showThis episode is a must-listen if you’ve ever felt alone in your struggles, wondered if you’re oversharing, or craved friendships that feel safe, sacred, and soul-nourishing.Featuring wisdom like:“Real friends aren’t the ones who always show up when it’s fun. They’re the ones who sit with you in the dark.”“Being raw is for safe spaces. Being real is for the world.”“Perception is reality, but you don’t owe anyone an explanation.”Tune in now for deep connection, unexpected laughs, and a reminder that you're not alone.—🔗 Links & Mentions:Take Up Space Foundation – Join the waitlist or make a donationThe Body Keeps the Score (Book Recommendation)Follow Barb on FacebookFollow us on Instagram: @twobestieswithamic💬 Love this episode? Share it with the friend who’s always shown up when you needed them most.

Welcome back to Two Besties with a Mic! In Episode 39, we’re back in interview mode after wrapping up our four-part series—and this one is a treat.This week, we're joined by Lorie Converse, a powerhouse in the mortgage world, an event-planning queen, a Watertown community leader, and someone we’re lucky to call a friend. From school boards to bold manifestations, this episode is packed with laughter, personal growth, and a lot of real talk.In this episode, we talk about:How Lorie got into the mortgage industry (spoiler: it started with a trip to Jamaica 🏖️)What it’s like to work alongside your spouse and be actual best friends with themBalancing business, community service, and motherhood (including four kids!)The power of setting bold goals and manifesting your dream life (hello, Cabo!)Why you can be both bold and kind—and how Lorie is living proof of thatThe unexpected impact of Bloom, personal growth journeys, and postcards from your past selfBravo Housewives, coffee delivery drama, and why a Louis Vuitton bag is more than just a goalThis is one of our most inspiring interviews yet—and we’re not just saying that. Lorie is the definition of real, relatable, and resilient.Listen in if you’ve ever...Felt intimidated to chase big goalsWondered how to juggle it all without losing yourselfNeeded a reminder that kindness and boundaries can coexistWanted to see what’s possible when you stop holding yourself backLorie's Billboard Message to the World:“You can be bold and kind.” Connect with Lorie:Facebook: Lorie ConverseMortgage Help: Close it with Converse 💼Grab your Elevate Summit ticket before they sell out: developingwithdevan.com/elevatesummit💌 Write yourself a postcard when you get there—you’ll thank us later.Thanks for tuning in, besties! Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear that it’s okay to be both strong and soft. We’ll see you next time!Love, Devan & Kelsey#TwoBestiesWithAMic #BoldAndKind #CloseItWithConverse #WatertownWomen #ManifestationWorks #ElevateSummit #MortgageBoss #WomenInBusiness #BloomEffect

Welcome to the fiery finale of our four-part series! In this episode, Kelsey and Devan throw down the glittery black carpet and invite you to unapologetically walk into your villain era—the one where you stop apologizing for being too much and start loving yourself loudly. In this episode, we dive into:What it actually means to be in your villain era (hint: it’s not about being evil)Rewriting self-worth stories and ditching the “earn your worth” mentalityWhy comparison is a tool of oppression (especially for women)The myth of imposter syndrome and why it’s keeping you smallPrioritizing yourself without guilt (yes, even if it makes people uncomfortable)How the “blue guy” from Megamind is your new self-worth icon Plus, Devan shares her behind-the-scenes process of revamping her self-doubt course into a bold new immersive audio bundle: Stop Talking Sh*t About Yourself — and spills the tea on the funnel she’s building around it (no gatekeeping here).Kelsey gets real about silencing herself in the past, learning to take up space, and that moment she realized loving yourself out loud isn’t conceited—it’s revolutionary. Favorite quotes from this episode:“I’m not going to shrink myself just because I take up more space.”“You’re not the villain for prioritizing yourself. You’re just finally not the sidekick.”“Comparison is a tool of oppression—and we’re not playing that game anymore.”Don’t forget: If you’ve listened to episodes 35–38, there’s a special giveaway waiting for you! Go binge the series and listen for the details.Main Character Energy? Activated. Love us? Leave a review, share with a friend, or tag us on Instagram @TwoBestiesWithAMic.

We're back with part 3 of our 4-part mini-series—and this one is a deep dive. Kelsey and Devan reflect on where they were five years ago (yep, March 2020), and the powerful life, business, and self-worth lessons they’ve learned since.From quitting jobs, starting businesses during a pandemic, and unlearning perfectionism to building boundaries, battling body image, and breaking free from victim mindsets—this episode is full of real talk and raw growth.In this episode, we unpack:Where we were in March 2020 and how the pandemic impacted our lives and businessesThe mindset traps we didn’t even know we were stuck inHow perfectionism, external validation, and fear of rejection held us backThe advice we’d give our younger selves (and maybe you need to hear it too)What it means to wake up and stop living for everyone elseThe things we thought were “the way” that we now know were so wrongThis is your permission slip to:Say no more oftenStop waiting for someone else’s approvalLet go of the people who give you the ickTake up space even if you don’t “look the part”Choose yourself—every damn time Mini-Series Listener Challenge Reminder! Share any episode from this 4-part series on your IG or FB stories, tag @twobestieswithamic, and fill out the Google Form (linked below) to win:A $50 gift card to Kelsey Deru AestheticsA signed copy of What’s Your Worth by DevanA $25 coffee shop gift card (Starbucks, Dunkin', or your fave local spot!Deadline: April 25thEnter here: Two Besties with a Mic Raffle EntryFavorite quotes from this episode:“Maybe those butterflies are actually snakes.”“The people who make you feel uncomfortable for no reason? Trust it—and run.”“I don’t need you to like me to know I’m worthy.”“Looking inward is the first step to waking up.”Let us know your ah-ha moments—screenshot this episode and tag us!

Welcome back to part two of our four-part mini-series all about unshrinking, unlearning, and unapologetically owning your voice.In this episode, Devan and Kelsey dive into the best and worst advice they’ve ever received—personally, professionally, and emotionally. From unsolicited feedback that stuck around way too long, to game-changing guidance that altered how they show up in business and life… this one is juicy.They dive into:The advice that kicked off Devan’s journey to unapologetic confidenceWhy Kelsey is rethinking when to speak up (and when to wait)The worst things people have said to them—and how they’ve reclaimed the powerHow external validation, beauty standards, and "success myths" mess with our headsA vulnerable talk about self-image, pink hair, and the fat insults that don’t land anymoreThe myth of “fake it til you make it” and what builds real confidenceThe one thing they’d tell their younger selves (and maybe you need to hear it too)Powerful reminder: You do not need to be liked to be worthy. You don’t need to meet anyone else’s expectations to be successful. And your voice is worth using—even if it makes people uncomfortable.Mini-Series Challenge Reminder! Share this episode on your Instagram or Facebook story, tag @twobestieswithamic, and fill out the Google Form (linked below) to enter to win:A $50 gift card to Kelsey Darou AestheticsA signed copy of Devan’s book What’s Your WorthA $25 gift card to your fave coffee spotDeadline to enter: April 25th Click here to fill out the Google Form after you share for your entry to count! You can enter up to FOUR times (one for each episode in the series). Let’s grow this community together.What’s the worst advice you’ve ever received—and what would you tell your younger self now? Tag us or DM us @twobestieswithamic!

In this raw and unfiltered episode, Devan and Kelsey kick off their brand new 4-part mini-series, all about reclaiming your voice, your space, and your damn power. It’s just the two of them today—no guests, no script, just real talk between besties.They dive into:The biggest ways they’ve outgrown their 2024 selvesHow they’re finally stepping into their villain eras 👑Times they shrunk themselves to make others comfortable (and why they’re done with that)The business and personal glow-ups that have reshaped their confidenceWhy authenticity, duality, and being “too much” are now their favorite traitsAnd the importance of honoring your truth—even if it makes others uncomfortableDevan shares how a friendship breakup led to stronger business boundaries and bigger money moves.Kelsey opens up about walking away from a toxic relationship and finally feeling genuinely happy for real.PLUS: They’re launching a listener challenge!Share this episode to your Instagram or Facebook stories and tag @twobestieswithamic for a chance to win:A $50 gift card to Kelsey Deru AestheticsA signed copy of Devan’s book What’s Your WorthA $25 gift card to your coffee shop of choice (Dunkin', Starbucks, or something local!)Deadline to enter: April 25thClick here to fill out the Google Form after you share for your entry to count!You can enter up to FOUR times (one for each episode in the series). Let’s grow this community together.🧡 As always, we want to hear from you! DM us or comment with your favorite moments, biggest takeaways, or your answers to the episode’s reflection questions.

34 -  The Power of Storytelling with Mackenzie HeflinEpisode 34 | Two Besties with a MicHave you ever wondered how the power of storytelling can elevate your business and build deeper connections with your audience? In this episode of Two Besties with a Mic, hosts Devan and Kelsey talk with Mackenzie Heflin about the art of storytelling in business, especially in the fast-paced world of social media and content creation. Mackenzie shares her personal journey, the highs and lows of building her brand, and the strategies she’s used to overcome self-doubt and stay authentic while connecting with her community. Ready to learn how vulnerability and authenticity can transform your business? Let’s dive in!What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why vulnerability in storytelling should come from a place of healing.How to create content that focuses on your audience's desires and transformations.The common struggle of navigating self-doubt as a content creator and how to overcome it.The role of storytelling in building relatability and trust with audiences.How effective storytelling involves strategy, not just sharing personal experiences.Don’t miss out on these insights that can take your storytelling and business to the next level!Favorite Quote from This Episode:"When you're telling your story, every story is needed. Every story has its place. And if it doesn't hit, that's okay. Because maybe the person it was meant for just didn't see it yet,” – Mackenzie HelfinConnect with Mackenzie Heflin:Tiktok: @mackenzieheflin_YouTube: Mackenzie HeflinResources & Mentions:Grab Mackenzie’s free here! Follow Devan and Kelsey on Instagram!@DevelopingwithDevan@KelseyDarouMUA@twobestieswithamic

In this episode, Kelsey and Devan are joined by their honorary third bestie, Kayla Jamison — President & CEO of the Greater Watertown North Country Chamber of Commerce. And let us tell you… this convo is equal parts informative and heartwarming.We dive into the real role of a Chamber of Commerce (it’s way more than just ribbon cuttings and networking events), how the local farmers market is actually run by the Chamber, and why connection is at the heart of everything they do.Kayla also shares how she stepped into leadership, what self-doubt looks like when you're running a 120-year-old organization, and how she and Devan turned a vision into a women’s conference that’s grown year after year: Bloom.🌸 Bloom 2025 is coming April 4th at the Hilton Garden Inn in Watertown. Whether you’re a business owner, side hustler, or just craving connection and growth, this event is for you. Expect personal and professional development, speakers like Kelsey and Devan, breakout sessions, and yes—really good wings.🎟️ Grab your ticket at watertownny.com

Episode 32 | Two Besties with a MicWhat does it really mean to take up space unapologetically? How do you handle criticism, self-doubt, and the pressure to shrink yourself? In this episode, we sit down with Rachel Pedersen—entrepreneur, social media strategist, author, and all-around badass—to talk about what it truly takes to show up boldly, embrace vulnerability, and build a business (and life) on your own terms.Rachel shares her journey from being a hairstylist to growing multiple 8-figure businesses, amassing over 3 million followers, and taking on industry norms without losing herself in the process. We get real about the struggles of online visibility, handling trolls, and why perfection is overrated.What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The role of vulnerability in building trust online (and why timing is everything) How Rachel navigates negativity, trolls, and unsolicited opinions on social media The power of owning your voice (even when it makes people uncomfortable) Why taking up space isn’t just about being loud—it’s about showing up fully The behind-the-scenes reality of running a successful business while being a real, imperfect human And of course, some hilarious, unhinged social media moments that remind us to stop taking it all so seriouslyFavorite Quote from This Episode: "Don’t apologize for being who you are. If it’s weird, if it’s crass, if it’s polished, if it’s perfect—don’t apologize for who you are, how you show up, and the way that you show up in this world." – Rachel PedersenConnect with Rachel Pedersen:Website: www.rachelpedersen.comInstagram: @themrspedersenYouTube: Rachel PedersenResources & Mentions: Rachel’s USA Today Best-Selling Book: Unfiltered: Proven Strategies to Start and Grow Your Business By Breaking the Rules Take Up Space Foundation – Learn moreEnjoyed the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review! It helps more bold, badass women find this show. And if something in this episode resonated with you, share it on Instagram and tag us—we’d love to hear your takeaways!Follow Two Besties with a Mic:Instagram: @twobestieswithamicWebsite: Two Besties with a MicWhat’s your biggest takeaway from this episode? Drop us a DM or comment on our latest post!