Doing Life Differently

👉 Learn more and start clarifying your brand voice with KJ Brand Coach GPT.In this vulnerable update, I’m sharing my year-long health spiral—mold, histamine flares, alpha-gal, and a nervous system that just couldn’t keep up. I’ll take you behind the scenes of why our family had to temporarily move out, and what it looked like to make the choice to decide to heal at home. I’m also opening up about EMDR, the functional medicine support that’s been helping me, and even what I’ve learned from simplifying our house (hello, five outfits!). More than anything, I’m unpacking how surrender (not white-knuckling) has completely changed the way I lead, parent, and run my business.And because I know so many of you are craving clarity in the middle of your own messy seasons, I’ll also introduce you to something brand new: KJ Brand Coach GPT. It’s an on-demand coaching tool that mirrors my podcast coaching voice and helps point you back to your own story in real time!🔗 Jump Into MoreListen to more episodes https://katelynjames.com/podcastFollow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/katelynjamesShop the KJ Courses https://shop.katelynjames.comGet a Bible for $4 on Amazon https://amzn.to/4nOhhKW Timestamps00:00 Life update + why the podcast went quiet02:18 Mold discovery, remediation, and lingering symptoms04:41 Alpha-gal, acupuncture, and what actually improved07:01 MCAS-like flares & the hunt for root causes11:41 The breaking point: fight/flight, a Malibu wedding, and dizziness16:16 Surrender > control: what God’s been teaching in the unknown18:44 Coming home: practical steps + praying peace over the house21:07 EMDR, reprocessing, and feeling different in the body23:31 What’s next for the show (and your invitation)

👉 Learn more and start clarifying your brand voice with KJ Brand Coach GPT.Do you really have a strong brand...or just strong visuals? In this episode, we’re unpacking what a brand voice actually is, why it matters for connection and trust, and how to start clarifying yours. You’ll learn:The difference between tone and true brand voiceWhy your voice builds trust before conversionThe simple formula to discover your authentic voiceThree “voice anchors” to keep your content consistentIf your content sounds right but doesn’t resonate, this conversation will help you practice, try on, and refine a voice that finally feels like you.👉 Learn more and start clarifying your brand voice with KJ Brand Coach GPT.🔗 Jump Into MoreListen to more episodes https://katelynjames.com/podcastFollow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/katelynjamesShop the KJ Courses https://shop.katelynjames.com

Every entrepreneur falls into one of four identities: the Invisible Beginner, the Polished Pro, the Workhorse, or the Trapped Visionary. In this episode, I’ll help you identify where you are, what’s keeping you stuck, and what winning could look like in your business. ⭐️ Plus, a sneak peek of something brand new coming Monday that will feel like having a coach in your pocket anytime you need it! Join the NEW Brand Mentor Waitlist HERE!Follow Katelyn on Instagram: @katelynjamesFree Resource: 🎧 What Your Brand Says About You

If you had told me a year ago that I’d be sitting across from a therapist, holding buzzing paddles in my hands while my eyes tracked her fingers back and forth… I would have laughed and said, “Nope, not me.”I thought I was fine.I’ve been open about loss, near-death experiences, health struggles, and running a business through it all. I believed that because I could talk about the hard things, I had already processed them.But EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) showed me something I didn’t know—there were little pockets of unprocessed pain still quietly shaping my beliefs, my body, and even my health.In this episode, I share:What EMDR is and why I finally said yes to itThe repeating belief that had been quietly sabotaging me for yearsSpecific moments from my story that shifted from “disturbing” to “sad, but no longer controlling”Why this work matters for entrepreneurs who are living in constant fight-or-flight without even realizing itThis isn’t just a story about therapy—it’s about finally letting your body believe you’re safe. It’s about the relief of feeling like yourself again. And it’s a reminder that you don’t have to keep living with the weight you’ve learned to carry.If you’ve ever wondered whether the pain you’ve pushed down might still be pushing back… this one’s for you.Free Resource: 🎧 What Your Brand Says About You→ A free mini podcast + reflection journal to help you clarify your brand’s message.

Free Resource: 🎧 What Your Brand Says About YouIf your marketing feels like you’re shouting into the void… this episode might be the wake-up call you need.I’ve coached hundreds of entrepreneurs—photographers, real estate agents, coaches, and even multi-million-dollar business owners—and I see the same problem over and over again. They’re posting consistently, they’re doing “all the things,” but their audience still isn’t connecting.The issue isn’t always strategy.It’s often the missing brand boosters!!In this episode, I’m breaking down:What brand boosters actually are (and why they’re not just fluff)How they humanize your brand and make people feel connected to youWhy they work for both brand-new business owners and seasoned entrepreneursHow to start identifying your own brand boosters today!Your audience isn’t just buying what you sell—they’re buying you. And when you get intentional about letting people see the human behind your business, everything changes.JOIN THE WAITLIST! Something's coming this September that will help you build more connection and trust with your audience...and build a purposeful and profitable business! Join the waitlist here to get the scoop first.

In this raw and powerful episode, Katelyn shares a live coaching moment with a student walking through infertility, grief, and the fear of showing up vulnerably in her brand.If you’ve ever felt like you’re supposed to be strong but feel broken instead… this is for you.You’ll hear:Why strategy isn’t what’s keeping most businesses stuckHow to start sharing your story when you’re not “there yet”A reminder that your presence—even in pain—is proof of your strengthFree Resource: 🎧 What Your Brand Says About You→ A free mini podcast + reflection journal to help you clarify your brand’s message.

Today we’re digging into something I wish more business owners understood: your brand is saying something to the world—even if you’re not trying. Even if you feel invisible online. Even if you’re “taking a break.” Silence still speaks.👉 Download the guide that pairs along with this!In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on how I accidentally built a personal brand in 2008 just by being myself...and why that naive move was the best marketing decision I ever made!You are already building a brand. The question is—are you building the one you want?Get the free guide! What Your Brand Says About You Follow Katelyn on Instagram See the brand new Katelyn James site by Tonic Site Shop!

In this episode, I’m walking you through the real story behind how my business (and myself!) have changed over the last 17 years.I call them KJ 1.0 and KJ 2.0. These two versions of me worked hard, chased big dreams, and carried some heavy mindsets along the way. One hustled to prove herself. One scaled while breaking inside. Both taught me something I didn’t know I needed. Whether you’re in your own 1.0 hustle era or stepping into a new version of yourself, I hope this episode helps you look back with grace—and forward with freedom!Get the free guide! What Your Brand Says About You Follow Katelyn on Instagram Listen to KJ 3.0 Episode! See the brand new Katelyn James site by Tonic Site Shop!

There’s a weird mix of grief and excitement that comes when you outgrow something that used to fit.In this episode, I’m sharing what it’s been like to rebuild my website from the ground up—and why it’s so much more than a fresh design. I talk with Becca, my marketing director, about the story behind the rebrand, the identity shift that came with it, and the deeper reason I knew it was time to make this move.👉 Go To The New Website!This isn’t just about changing fonts or colors. It’s about building a digital home that reflects the whole story—not just the photographer side of me.KJ 3.0 is here.And it’s not just a new version of me—it’s a new way of serving photographers and purpose-driven entrepreneurs who are ready to show up fully and build brands that start with who they are.

What happens when your business outgrows your website… but you’re still emotionally attached to it? That’s where I found myself. And in this special episode, I’m bringing you behind the scenes of my BIGGEST brand shift yet—with the one and only Jen Olmstead, my dear friend and longtime web designer (and Tonic Site Shop co-founder).We’re talking about:What “KJ 3.0” really means and why bold, colorful confidence feels right in this seasonThe biggest mistakes creatives make with their websites (and how to fix them!)Why your about page might be boring...and how to make it unforgettable!Jen’s accidental journey into entrepreneurship and designing brands like Wendy’s and maybe… Taylor Swift someday?How shame and self-doubt show up in branding (yes, even for 7-figure creatives)PLUS: we unpack the one thing your website must do in 2025 if you want to actually stand out in a sea of “beige sandals.”If my new site makes you want to refresh your own? You can save 15% at tonicsiteshop.com with my code KJSENTME 💻✨

This episode hit deep! If you’ve ever felt like you’re the only one driving vision in your marriage or that your spouse doesn’t seem as invested, you’re not alone. Julia Woods and I dive into why vision casting as a couple can feel so challenging—and why it often triggers emotions like fear, shame, and frustration.Julia shares powerful insights on: • How vision exposes deeper beliefs about ourselves and our relationship. • The tension between feeling like we’re “too much” or “not enough” in marriage. • Why we default to blame instead of doing the deeper work within ourselves. • The real purpose of vision casting—hint: it’s NOT just about planning trips or setting goals.>> Learn more about Julia Woods CoachingI walked away from this conversation so encouraged, especially by the reminder that failed vision meetings aren’t failures at all—they’re gifts that reveal what’s really going on beneath the surface. If you’re struggling to get on the same page with your spouse, this episode will give you a whole new perspective!Reflection Questions:1️⃣ Before approaching a vision conversation, what stories am I telling myself about my spouse? Are they true?2️⃣ How do I typically react when I feel unseen or unheard in vision planning?3️⃣ What fears come up when I think about casting vision together? Am I afraid of being “too much” or “not enough”?4️⃣ How can I shift from trying to get my spouse on my page to creating a page we both want to be on together?5️⃣ What would it look like to approach vision casting from a place of humility and surrender instead of control?Take a moment to sit with these before your next vision conversation—you might be surprised what comes up!Follow Katelyn: Instagram YouTube Pinterest

What does success really mean? Is it about income, status, or something deeper? In this episode, Michael and I sit down for a candid conversation about how our childhood shaped our views on success and how we’re intentionally redefining it for our own children. We reflect on growing up in a small-town community, the hidden lessons we learned about money and work, and the challenges of raising kids in a world that often equates success with wealth and achievement.We share three key ways we’re guiding our children in this area: 1. Focusing on Failure First – Helping our kids develop resilience and a healthy relationship with failure before they even define success. 2. Defining Success Holistically – Teaching them that success isn’t just about money or status but about relationships, impact, and purpose. 3. Highlighting Impact Over Income – Emphasizing service, generosity, and solving problems for others rather than chasing financial gain.Whether you’re a parent or simply reflecting on your own definition of success, I hope this episode challenges you to think differently about what really matters!Reflection Questions:What was your definition of success growing up? How did your parents influence that?Have you ever felt pressure to measure success by income or status? How has that shaped your decisions?If you’re a parent, what messages about success do you think your children are absorbing from you?How do you personally handle failure? Have you created space for yourself (or your kids) to fail without shame?Follow Katelyn: Instagram YouTube Pinterest>> Want to learn more about Acton Academy? Click here!

In this episode, I’m sharing how my perspective on business shifted from hustle to purpose and how I’ve seen God use my work as a ministry. From unexpected conversations with clients to moments of service on wedding days, I reflect on the ways faith has overflowed into my business. If you’ve ever wondered how your work could make a bigger impact, this episode will encourage you to see opportunities right where you are—whether you’re running a business, raising a family, or simply showing up for others.Resources Mentioned:The Needs of the Heart by Chip DoddThe Voice of the Heart by Chip DoddReflection Questions: How can I approach my work with a mindset of service rather than just completing tasks or meeting goals?Have I ever prayed for God to use my work for a greater purpose? If not, how can I start?Follow Katelyn: Instagram YouTube Pinterest

In this episode of Doing Life Differently, I share a raw and honest recap of my December digital detox. Spoiler: it was nothing like I expected! What started as a plan for distraction-free family memories quickly turned into a season of survival, self-discovery, and surprising lessons. From navigating a rare allergy and health scares to the unexpected gifts of stepping away from social media, this episode is packed with reflections on intentional living in the midst of chaos.KJ Reflection Questions:What would your life look like if you removed social media for a season?How might a digital detox help you reconnect with what matters most?KJ Mentions:My diagnosis of Alpha Gal Syndrome1-Second A Day AppIf this episode resonated with you, be sure to subscribe and leave a review. Your support helps us continue to inspire others to live differently and with purpose!Follow Katelyn on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Pinterest

In this deeply personal episode, I’m opening up about my bizarre and life-changing journey with Alpha Gal syndrome, a tick-borne allergy that has completely reshaped how I live. From mysterious symptoms and terrifying reactions to the unexpected diagnosis and a functional medicine approach that’s brought relief, I’m sharing it all—the fear, the frustration, and ultimately, the hope and healing. This isn’t just about an allergy; it’s about learning to care for yourself, embracing help, and living with intentionality, even when life throws unexpected challenges your way.I’ll walk you through the resources that have helped me, the lessons I’ve learned, and how faith has carried me through this valley. Whether you’re dealing with medical challenges, anxiety, or just the hard stuff of life, I hope this episode reminds you that you’re not alone and that healing—physical, emotional, and spiritual—is possible.Resources Mentioned:The Needs of the Heart by Chip DoddThe Voice of the Heart by Chip DoddSAAT Therapy (Acupuncture) by Dr. Solomon-trained practitionersStudies on vagus nerve function and allergy response (linked in the blog post accompanying this episode)Follow Katelyn: Instagram YouTube Pinterest

In this episode of Doing Life Differently, I’m sharing why I’m stepping into a digital detox for the month of December!I dive into the heart behind this decision—both the practical and spiritual motivations that led me to hit pause, especially on social media like Instagram. For me, this detox is about creating space to be more present with my family and making room for stillness and reflection in a season that’s often filled with noise and distraction.I talk about the challenges technology brings to staying present, my hopes for this detox (like improving how I listen—to myself and to God), and how I’m planning to manage my social media presence during this time.I’m excited for this journey, and I hope it inspires you to think about your own relationship with technology. Could a digital detox be the reset you need? Let’s explore it together!MENTIONS: The Anxious Generation BookAro Box CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction to Doing Life Differently00:55 The December Digital Detox02:45 Practical Reasons for the Detox08:15 Spiritual Insights and Intentions12:30 Logistics of the Detox20:57 Conclusion and Future Plans

In this episode of Doing Life Differently, I'm opening up about my family’s journey to a healthier, lower-toxicity home. Our family has been learning so much about about food additives and dyes! So I'm sitting down to shares actionable steps and real-life insights that have helped my family reduce our toxic load and promote better health. If you're feeling overwhelmed by the topic of toxins this is an episode for you!! I hope you find encouragement that small, manageable changes can have a big impact!MENTIONS:Calley & Casey Means on the Joe Rogan PodcastTruly Free DetergentCrunchi Organic Grassfed TallowDye-Free SprinklesThrive MarketPower Balls RecipeJonny Pops Popsicles

In this episode of Doing Life Differently, Michael and I reflect on our unique journey in education as founders of an Acton Academy. Now in year three, we’re seeing the results of an alternative education model designed to foster independence, resilience, and a lifelong love of learning in young learners. If you’re curious about what makes Acton different, we break down how our “learner-driven” approach encourages students to set their own goals, embrace challenges, and learn collaboratively without the traditional structure of grades, tests, or homework.Highlights from this Episode:What is Acton Academy? Michael explains the core principles of Acton’s learner-led, Socratic approach, which focuses on helping children become self-driven and accountable for their education.The Parent’s Role in Acton: We share how Acton intentionally involves parents as partners, not rescuers, and encourages them to support rather than direct their child’s educational journey.Navigating Challenges in Year Three: With more learners, new challenges arise, but we’ve discovered that more students actually strengthen the self-directed environment, making Acton a safe space for children to learn accountability and responsibility.A Community Like No Other: We highlight the unique family and parent community surrounding Acton, built around shared values and a commitment to doing school differently. From “parent brunches” to monthly gatherings, Acton creates a family-centered educational experience.Preparing for the Future: Looking ahead, we discuss our goals for expanding to a larger campus and the ongoing mission of Acton to instill mental resilience, grit, and a love for learning in every learner.Tune in for a deep dive into our journey with Acton and the powerful transformations we’ve seen in our learners, our families, and ourselves along the way!EPISODE MENTIONS: 📚 Read the book by Acton Founder: Courage to Grow 💻 Head to the Acton Academy West End website📲 Follow Acton Academy West End on Instagram

In this episode of Doing Life Differently, I chat with my friend Catherine Guidry, a luxury wedding photographer and educator from New Orleans. Catherine shares how embracing personal branding and vulnerability transformed her business and life. We explore the challenges of being authentic online while balancing professionalism and how connection can fuel both personal and business growth. If you’ve ever wrestled with sharing your story or feared judgment, this episode will inspire you to lean into authenticity and build deeper relationships with your audience.📲 Follow Katelyn on Instagram📲 Follow Cat on Instagram💻 RSVP for Katelyn's FREE Editing Training - "From Frustration to Flow: The Editing Breakthrough You Need"

In this episode of Doing Life Differently, I sit down with two of my favorite photographers and business owners, Erica and Jon, to talk about their journey of leaving corporate life and traditional wedding photography behind to build a thriving brand photography business that aligns with their values and lifestyle.📲 Follow Katelyn on InstagramEPISODE MENTIONS:Click to sign up for Erica + Jon's FREE CLASS!Episode Highlights:The Bold Leap: Erica and Jon left behind a stable corporate job and sold their home to pursue photography full-time, transforming both their careers and personal lives.From Wedding to Brand Photography: They shifted from wedding photography to brand photography, gaining more freedom and discovering the power of image licensing.Embracing Authenticity: By being true to themselves, Erica and Jon found greater success and fulfillment in both life and business.Balancing Family and Work: They reshaped their business to prioritize family, homeschooling their kids while maintaining a profitable photography business.Key Lessons for Brand Photographers: Erica and Jon share tips on confidence, pricing, and marketing strategies for those looking to transition into brand photography.Keep LearningPast episode: 5 Things I Learned From Hosting A Mastermind RetreatThe book Jon mentioned: "Living Fearless"