Startin' Some Ripples

Among many other topics, we explore:Growing Up Different in the 1950s: Bella recalls her early years in a male-dominated household, long before there was language or support for what she was experiencing.The Mask of Normalcy: From sports to music to marriage, Bella describes how she built a “normal” life while carrying a hidden truth.Halloween Outfits to Honesty: What started as a playful tradition with her wife became the first space where Bella could explore her authentic self, and eventually led to seeking therapy and beginning transition in her 60s.The Tipping Point: How decades of suppression, one too many goodbyes to her true self, and finally seeing role models like Caitlyn Jenner and Laverne Cox pushed Bella to say, “When is it my turn?”Transitioning Later in Life: From hundreds of hours of electrolysis to major surgery, Bella shares the physical and emotional journey of aligning her inner and outer self.Writing The Uninvited Passenger: Why Bella turned to writing as a way to process her story, and how her memoir became a message of hope for anyone carrying silent battles.Hope in the Midst of Gaslighting: Bella speaks to today’s political climate, the dangers of misinformation, and why her book is also a call to protect and encourage vulnerable young people.Join us for an honest, inspiring conversation about identity, resilience, and the joy of finally living as your true self—proof that it’s never too late to embrace who you are.The Uninvited Passenger releases September 12, 2025, in paperback and eBook. Visit HezzieMae.com to order your copy and step into this powerful story. Heather N. Wilde & Hezzie Mae Book PublishingWebsite: www.HezzieMae.comFacebook: Heather N. WildeDo you need an engaging, heartfelt speaker to inspire your audience? Heather brings a blend of authenticity, insight, and storytelling to every event. Whether addressing professional teams, high school audiences, or creative communities, Heather’s talks focus on personal growth, resilience, and the power of stories to transform lives. Reach out to hwilde@hezziemae.com to book Heather for your next event.

Among many other topics, we explore:Leading from the Heart: Jen shares what it means to lead with a strong sense of community and stay rooted in your values, even when the outcome isn't what you hoped for.The Firecracker Grandma: We talk about how Jen's grandmother, a "firecracker" who advocated for everyone, taught her the heart of inclusion and the importance of having a strong support system.Brewing Community: We dive into Jen’s family business, Spiral Brewery, which is more than just a business—it's a mission to "brew community through quality beer and rich history."Join us for a beautiful and inspiring episode filled with layers of richness about how hope lives right next to despair, how to be part of the "untangling process" of problems, and the powerful lesson that showing up with what you can is always enough.www.spiralbrewery.com Heather N. Wilde & Hezzie Mae Book PublishingWebsite: www.HezzieMae.comFacebook: Heather N. WildeDo you need an engaging, heartfelt speaker to inspire your audience? Heather brings a blend of authenticity, insight, and storytelling to every event. Whether addressing professional teams, high school audiences, or creative communities, Heather’s talks focus on personal growth, resilience, and the power of stories to transform lives. Reach out to hwilde@hezziemae.com to book Heather for your next event.

Sam Nelson returns to the podcast to discuss her personal journey as a neurodiversity advocate. She opens up about receiving her own ADHD diagnosis a little over two years ago and how she and her family had to navigate their own unique ADHD-related circumstances. Sam also discusses her new brand, "Neurodivergent Not Broken," which she created to share her experiences and build a community where people can feel supported and less alone.Among many other topics, we explore:A Family's Journey: Sam shares that just two years ago, she received her own diagnosis, which led to clarity and the realization that all four members of her family are in different neurodivergent categories. This prompted her to become an advocate and share her story.The Lack of Support: Sam describes how, after her diagnosis, medical professionals provided very little follow-up support beyond a sheet of paper with recommended books. She had to pursue an understanding of neurodivergence by herself.Accommodations and New Understandings: Sam outlines five accommodations her family has made since the diagnosis to create a smoother home life. These include allowing for quiet downtime after work and school, implementing sensory accommodations, letting go of expectations around family meals, and a few more!The "Neurodivergent Not Broken" Brand: Inspired by her and her husband's experiences, Sam has started a brand called "Neurodivergent Not Broken" that aims to offer help and support to others and create a community with more compassion, grace, and less shame.Join us for an inspiring and empowering episode about understanding how your brain works, finding new ways to support your family, and being courageous enough to share your story to help others.Connect with Sam!Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neurodivergentnotbrokenSubstack: https://substack.com/@neurodivergentnotbrokenHustle & Heart Salon:https://hustleandheartsalon.com/ Heather N. Wilde & Hezzie Mae Book PublishingWebsite: www.HezzieMae.comFacebook: Heather N. WildeDo you need an engaging, heartfelt speaker to inspire your audience? Heather brings a blend of authenticity, insight, and storytelling to every event. Whether addressing professional teams, high school audiences, or creative communities, Heather’s talks focus on personal growth, resilience, and the power of stories to transform lives. Reach out to hwilde@hezziemae.com to book Heather for your next event.

In this episode, I’m joined by Adarryl Hunter, a lifelong friend of George Floyd. We announce our joint project, a book titled Floyd's Baller, set to be released in February 2026, which is Black History Month. The book aims to serve as a resource for schools and is designed to teach and engage students on important life themes. We’ll talk about Adarryl (and his nickname “Baller”), his friendship with George Floyd, and this book’s inception. Among many other topics, we explore:Becoming a “Hood Philosopher”: Adarryl says he gained many of his people skills from Floyd, while Floyd saw Adarryl as a "hood philosopher" who could provide perspective on life.The Reluctance to Tell a Story: After Floyd's murder, Adarryl was hesitant to share his story, not wanting to appear to be capitalizing on his friend's death. A Creative Collaboration with a Spiritual Twist: Adarryl recounts that Floyd used to refer to himself as Morpheus from  The Matrix and Adarryl as Neo, which provides a fitting metaphor for George's role in telling the story. More Than a Story, It’s a Gumbo: The collaboration itself is a testament to this message, as a Black man and a white woman from the Midwest come together for a common purpose - a “gumbo” of perspectives, if you will. A Shared Purpose: The project’s timeline, delayed for several months, now seems perfectly aligned with the current political climate and educational needs. Both of us are fully invested in this project, believing it's not about achieving specific results but about sharing an authentic, loving story with the world. Heather N. Wilde & Hezzie Mae Book PublishingWebsite: www.HezzieMae.comFacebook: Heather N. WildeDo you need an engaging, heartfelt speaker to inspire your audience? Heather brings a blend of authenticity, insight, and storytelling to every event. Whether addressing professional teams, high school audiences, or creative communities, Heather’s talks focus on personal growth, resilience, and the power of stories to transform lives. Reach out to hwilde@hezziemae.com to book Heather for your next event.

Among many other topics, we explore:From Liberia to the United States: Jebeh shares her journey as a Liberian American, detailing how her parents immigrated from West Africa to the U.S. and instilled in her a strong sense of heritage, education, and family.A Father's Profound Impact: We discuss the powerful moment when Jebeh's father visited her sixth-grade classroom to teach her peers about Liberian history, a moment that instilled in her a sense of responsibility and pride in her identity. This experience, along with her father's passing years later, inspired her to take a leap and pursue her business full-time.The Village Mentality: Jebeh explains the importance of extended family and kinship in Liberian culture, highlighting how this strong support system provided her with a sense of belonging and helped her navigate challenges like racism and prejudice.The Pivot from Classroom to CEO: Our guest recounts how she went from being a first and fifth-grade teacher for 18 years to founding Jebeh Cultural Consulting. Her decision was a direct response to her father's death, prompting her to create a business that provided cultural resources and promoted positive change.Fact vs. Opinion in the Digital Age: We dive into the challenges of misinformation and implied messages in today’s world. Jebeh emphasizes the need for critical thinking and checking multiple sources to ensure accuracy, a practice she taught her own students.A Love Letter to Her People: She shares the inspiration behind her upcoming novella, The Orange Blossom, revealing that it is a love letter to her Liberian people. The book, a soap opera with a purpose, honors her family and cultural heritage, particularly her grandmother, who introduced her to the world of soap operas.Join us for an inspiring and empowering episode about honoring your heritage, trusting your inner voice, and being courageous enough to take a leap and start your own ripples.Connect with Jebeh!Website: https://jebehedmunds.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jebeh-edmunds-ms-teaching-3b9334101/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Jebeh-Cultural-Consulting/100063708180388/ Heather N. Wilde & Hezzie Mae Book PublishingWebsite: www.HezzieMae.comFacebook: Heather N. WildeDo you need an engaging, heartfelt speaker to inspire your audience? Heather brings a blend of authenticity, insight, and storytelling to every event. Whether addressing professional teams, high school audiences, or creative communities, Heather’s talks focus on personal growth, resilience, and the power of stories to transform lives. Reach out to hwilde@hezziemae.com to book Heather for your next event.

In this heartwarming conversation, we talk about:How the pandemic led me to a significant life shift, embracing roles as an author, speaker, and creative.My passion for connecting with students who "didn't quite fit the model" and creating a non-judgmental space where social-emotional skills and life planning were as important as academics.The incredible story behind my tradition of sewing personalized, handmade pillowcases for her graduating seniors. The powerful message I instilled in my students with each pillowcase: "When you put your head down at night, don't you forget what it took for you to get here."A new chapter for me at the time, including a book and the publishing business I’m in now. Grab your favorite drink and join us for a conversation that reminds us all of the profound impact one person can have.Check out The Storyteller's Porch here:https://thestorytellersporch.comHeather N. Wilde & Hezzie Mae Book Publishing  Heather N. Wilde & Hezzie Mae Book PublishingWebsite: www.HezzieMae.comFacebook: Heather N. WildeDo you need an engaging, heartfelt speaker to inspire your audience? Heather brings a blend of authenticity, insight, and storytelling to every event. Whether addressing professional teams, high school audiences, or creative communities, Heather’s talks focus on personal growth, resilience, and the power of stories to transform lives. Reach out to hwilde@hezziemae.com to book Heather for your next event.

Among many other topics, we explore:From Sick Kid to Health Advocate: Jessica opens up about her chronic childhood pain, the chiropractors who changed her life, and why she’s never stopped asking questions about health, inflammation, and root causes.The Birth of a Remedy (and a Brand): How one moment of maternal intuition—and a syrup that actually tasted good—led to a quiet Facebook post, a rush of orders, and a full-blown business overnight.Nature Knows What She’s Doing: We talk about the power of elderberries, the synergy of raw honey and organic ingredients, and why Jessica believes the body is designed to heal when we support it with what it needs.Growth, Overwhelm, and Rediscovering Voice: As the business expanded, Jessica lost touch with her own identity. She shares how burnout pushed her to reclaim her story, redefine her role, and come back home to herself.Why She’s Finally Stepping Forward: For years, Jessica stayed in the background while her product spoke for itself. Now, she’s choosing to be seen—and to speak the truth of how healing, faith, and courage built this from the ground up.Purpose Over Perfection: Jessica reminds us that success doesn’t require polish or a business plan—just a deep why, a willingness to learn, and a heart rooted in service.Join us for a vulnerable, empowering episode about trusting your body, owning your story, and honoring the call to create something that heals—inside and out.Website: https://thepowerofelderberries.com/pages/about-the-poeFB: https://www.facebook.com/ThePOWERofElderberries Heather N. Wilde & Hezzie Mae Book PublishingWebsite: www.HezzieMae.comFacebook: Heather N. WildeDo you need an engaging, heartfelt speaker to inspire your audience? Heather brings a blend of authenticity, insight, and storytelling to every event. Whether addressing professional teams, high school audiences, or creative communities, Heather’s talks focus on personal growth, resilience, and the power of stories to transform lives. Reach out to hwilde@hezziemae.com to book Heather for your next event.

From Marriage to Business Partners (Again): We talk honestly about our personal history, what made us reconnect professionally after divorce, and why this unusual path is working better than either of us expected.What Makes a Chef, Really: Steven unpacks his no-nonsense view on the culinary world, why the word “chef” is overused, and what it truly takes to show up in the kitchen with presence, soul, and skill.The Magic of Fish Sauce: Yes, really. We go deep on umami, fermentation, and how fish sauce can be a game-changing ingredient—plus beginner tips for how to use it.Creative Integrity Over Ego: Steven shares why he turned down the Food Network, what he looks for in a mentor, and how real creative leadership starts with alignment, not applause.Regeneration Over Sustainability: We discuss what sets Third Coast Superior apart—its ethos of regeneration, hyper-local impact, and how even your pantry staples can support ethical fishing, regional salt harvesters, and environmental stewardship.Scaling with Soul: As we grow this business, we talk about doing it with mindfulness, keeping connection at the center, swaying between roles, and designing systems that allow us to show up as our full, integrated selves.Tarot, Intuition, and Starting Again: From spontaneous emails to upside-down tarot spreads, we share how trust, flow, and spiritual nudges have shaped this new chapter—not just in business, but in life.Join us for an honest, funny, and deeply human conversation about love, business, fermentation, and the sacred, messy art of building something meaningful together. Heather N. Wilde & Hezzie Mae Book PublishingWebsite: www.HezzieMae.comFacebook: Heather N. WildeDo you need an engaging, heartfelt speaker to inspire your audience? Heather brings a blend of authenticity, insight, and storytelling to every event. Whether addressing professional teams, high school audiences, or creative communities, Heather’s talks focus on personal growth, resilience, and the power of stories to transform lives. Reach out to hwilde@hezziemae.com to book Heather for your next event.

Among many other topics, we explore:What Belonging Really Means: Amy explains the “B” in DEI&B and why fostering a true sense of belonging is crucial for equitable systems, especially in education and corporate spaces.From Teacher to Changemaker: How burnout, motherhood, and a post-pandemic shift led Amy to leave the classroom and expand her mission in new and unexpected ways.The Power of Simulated Empathy: A poverty simulation rocked Amy’s world and ignited a fire to build programs that connect stakeholders with the real challenges marginalized families face.Designing a Support Ecosystem: Amy lays out her vision for a mentorship-based, multi-layered program that connects families in need with accessible, relevant, and local resources through tailored workshops and personal guidance.Funding and Sustainability in Service Work: We discuss the myth that good deeds are free, and why sustainable funding, partnerships, and social enterprise models are essential to scale meaningful change.Reimagining Education for Adults: Amy shares her idea for digital “packages” on personal finance and healthcare navigation, designed for working adults who didn’t learn these life skills in school, and how every purchase could support someone in need.Join us for this energizing and grounded conversation about service, systems change, and what happens when an educator takes her compassion beyond the classroom.Connect with Amy!LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-spohn-7b489136/Email: email:a_spohn12@hotmail.com Heather N. Wilde & Hezzie Mae Book PublishingWebsite: www.HezzieMae.comFacebook: Heather N. WildeDo you need an engaging, heartfelt speaker to inspire your audience? Heather brings a blend of authenticity, insight, and storytelling to every event. Whether addressing professional teams, high school audiences, or creative communities, Heather’s talks focus on personal growth, resilience, and the power of stories to transform lives. Reach out to hwilde@hezziemae.com to book Heather for your next event.

In this episode, I’m joined once again by illustrator, designer, and creative scholar Chani Becker, who returns to share one of her favorite fairytales: Tatterhood. Chani guides us through a vivid retelling of this lesser-known Norwegian folktale and invites us to explore its powerful psychological symbolism through a Jungian lens.As part of her MFA thesis in Illustration, Chani used Tatterhood as a springboard for a deeper conversation about the ego, shadow self, transformation, and wholeness. Together, we reflect on what this bold, wild heroine can teach us about embracing all parts of ourselves.Among many other topics, we explore:The Power of Archetypes and Fairytales: How stories like Tatterhood can mirror the deep structure of our psyche—and why they stay with us for decades.Ego, Shadow, and Wholeness: Understanding how the two sisters in the tale represent a balanced psyche—and what happens when we suppress parts of ourselves.Transformation Through Initiation: How symbolic moments in the tale, including decapitation (!), speak to the disorientation and rebirth we often experience in adulthood.Visual Storytelling Through Psychology: Chani shares how she illustrated Tatterhood using principles of Jungian dream analysis, bringing both narrative and subconscious symbolism into her artwork.Honoring the Shadow Self: Why the “ugly,” “wild,” or “socially unacceptable” parts of us may actually carry our greatest strength and vitality.Art as Personal and Cultural Reflection: Chani opens up about how five years of MFA study (while raising a family!) helped her deepen her creative process and reconnect with her own story.Join us for a playful, profound conversation that celebrates the beauty of fairytales, the wisdom of our inner wildness, and the joy of lifelong creativity.Connect with Chani!Websites: http://www.chanibecker.com | https://www.hothousedesignandpost.com  Heather N. Wilde & Hezzie Mae Book PublishingWebsite: www.HezzieMae.comFacebook: Heather N. WildeDo you need an engaging, heartfelt speaker to inspire your audience? Heather brings a blend of authenticity, insight, and storytelling to every event. Whether addressing professional teams, high school audiences, or creative communities, Heather’s talks focus on personal growth, resilience, and the power of stories to transform lives. Reach out to hwilde@hezziemae.com to book Heather for your next event.

Among many other topics, we explore:Living Through the “Almost Miracles”: How both of Adrienne’s children defied the odds and what it meant to cherish moments of joy, even when the bigger picture looked grim.Resilience as a Daily Choice: Finding the strength to get out of bed, schedule joy, and stay present even when it’s just for an hour or a cup of coffee.Raw Grief and Real Healing: Why Adrienne chose to write with honesty, including the missteps, messy moments, and hard truths that accompany deep loss.The Power of Intentional Moments: From a daughter’s hospital Halloween party to a son’s decision to pursue college, Adrienne shares how focusing on what’s beautiful can anchor us through stormy seasons.Humor, Ritual, and Celebration: Adrienne talks about using laughter, birthday traditions, and intentional acts of remembrance to stay connected with her children after their passing.Hope Beyond This Realm: Why Adrienne believes in the afterlife, and how that belief gives her strength and purpose in continuing to be a mother, storyteller, and guide.Join us for this profoundly moving conversation about choosing to live, love, and lead with purpose (even after loss) and why Adrienne’s story is one of triumph, not tragedy.You can get Adrienne Bender’s book, The Almost Miracle Years, on Amazon and her website. Heather N. Wilde & Hezzie Mae Book PublishingWebsite: www.HezzieMae.comFacebook: Heather N. WildeDo you need an engaging, heartfelt speaker to inspire your audience? Heather brings a blend of authenticity, insight, and storytelling to every event. Whether addressing professional teams, high school audiences, or creative communities, Heather’s talks focus on personal growth, resilience, and the power of stories to transform lives. Reach out to hwilde@hezziemae.com to book Heather for your next event.

Among many other topics, we explore:Creative Energy as a Mirror: How our internal world shapes what we create—and how Sacha uses tarot and intuition to tap into the collective field of inspiration.Alignment vs. Autopilot Living: Identifying when life feels off-track, and how to consciously return to our truth by questioning inherited beliefs and systems.Self-Love as a Foundation: Exploring love as a state of being rather than an emotion, and how radical self-love creates the conditions for unconditional love toward others.Letting Go to Make Room: How releasing relationships and patterns that no longer serve us can magnetize new, soul-aligned connections.Choosing Growth Over Stagnation: The energetic message of the cards pulled in this episode—about embracing personal power, moving forward with intention, and remembering we always have a choice.The Invitation to Leap: Sacha shares her intention behind the August 8, 2025, release of her book and encourages listeners to embrace their own magic and take bold steps toward alignment.Join us for this soulful, unscripted conversation about living, creating, and connecting from a place of inner truth—and finding the courage to leap, even when the landing is unknown. Heather N. Wilde & Hezzie Mae Book PublishingWebsite: www.HezzieMae.comFacebook: Heather N. WildeDo you need an engaging, heartfelt speaker to inspire your audience? Heather brings a blend of authenticity, insight, and storytelling to every event. Whether addressing professional teams, high school audiences, or creative communities, Heather’s talks focus on personal growth, resilience, and the power of stories to transform lives. Reach out to hwilde@hezziemae.com to book Heather for your next event.

In this episode, I sit down with artist, author, and creative guide Rachel Gilbertson to talk about what really happens when you commit to showing up for your creativity every day. We get honest about the 100-Day Creative Soul Retrieval Journey—the magic, the mess, and everything in between. This one’s for anyone craving deeper self-connection, creative freedom, and the reminder that it’s not about the outcome—it’s about the becoming.Among many other topics, we explore:The Power of Process Over Outcome: Embracing the journey of creating without pressuring ourselves to produce something “perfect” or even shareable. Ritual and Routine in Creativity: How a daily commitment—even as simple as 15 minutes—can deepen creative flow and spark inspiration. Creative Nudges and Intuition: Paying attention to the gentle pulls toward materials, words, or images that feel right, even if we don’t know why. Letting Go of External Validation: Releasing the need for praise or feedback in order to create more authentically and vulnerably. Reclaiming Creative Identity: Honoring the childlike joy and expression that comes with saying, “I am an artist,” no matter your background or training. Safe Creative Community: The power of sharing in a non-judgmental space, where expression is celebrated without critique. Join us for this heartfelt episode about returning to the simple, sacred act of creating and letting it “ripple” outward!Connect with Rachel!Website: https://www.artofpresence.org/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/artofpresence.rmg/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/art_of_presence_rmg/   Heather N. Wilde & Hezzie Mae Book PublishingWebsite: www.HezzieMae.comFacebook: Heather N. WildeDo you need an engaging, heartfelt speaker to inspire your audience? Heather brings a blend of authenticity, insight, and storytelling to every event. Whether addressing professional teams, high school audiences, or creative communities, Heather’s talks focus on personal growth, resilience, and the power of stories to transform lives. Reach out to hwilde@hezziemae.com to book Heather for your next event.

In this episode, I’m joined by Brandi Fleming, a millennial with a remarkable story of transformation and self-discovery. We talk about Brandi’s journey from a chaotic home life to finding stability and pursuing her dreams, including moving to Spain and becoming an author. Brandi shares her experiences with overcoming depression, trusting her intuition, and the importance of self-awareness. We explore the significance of breaking cycles and setting personal goals, as well as the impact of intuitive guidance on one’s life path. Join us for an inspiring conversation about resilience, growth, and the powerful ripple effects of sharing our stories.Among many other topics, we explore:Following Intuition: Trusting and following one’s intuition can lead to profound personal growth and fulfillment.Self-Awareness and Healing: The importance of addressing and healing past traumas and being self-aware to prevent them from impacting future decisions.Finding Beauty in Adversity: Learning to see the positive aspects and lessons in life's challenges can contribute to personal resilience and growth.Comparing and Judging: Comparison often stems from judgment, and avoiding it can lead to a more fulfilling life without the burden of self-criticism.Role Models and Support Systems: The significance of having mentors and supportive figures in life to provide guidance and emotional support.Setting Goals for Mental Health: Establishing goals can serve as a motivator to overcome challenges such as depression, providing a sense of purpose and direction.Pursuing Dreams Against Odds: Overcoming societal and personal challenges to pursue and achieve one’s dreams, emphasizing the importance of persistence and self-belief. Heather N. Wilde & Hezzie Mae Book PublishingWebsite: www.HezzieMae.comFacebook: Heather N. WildeDo you need an engaging, heartfelt speaker to inspire your audience? Heather brings a blend of authenticity, insight, and storytelling to every event. Whether addressing professional teams, high school audiences, or creative communities, Heather’s talks focus on personal growth, resilience, and the power of stories to transform lives. Reach out to hwilde@hezziemae.com to book Heather for your next event.

In this episode, I’m joined by Chani Becker, a creative, a mama, and a storyteller. We talk about Chani’s background in art, her journey to becoming a creative professional, and her recent work in teaching and illustrating. She also shares insights into the psychological and archetypal symbolism in fairytales, specifically the story of "Blue Beard." We explore how these tales can offer profound self-understanding and even healing.Working with Creatives: Her collaboration with Chani highlights how teamwork can lead to the development of significant and fruitful projects, as evidenced by their joint efforts in designing book covers and fostering creative growth.Importance of Education in Art: She talks about how understanding core principles like design elements, critique, and feedback processes can deeply enhance one's ability to create meaningful and impactful art.Relationship Between Stories and Ourselves: The discussion about Carl Jung's psychological perspectives on fairy tales provides insights into understanding the deeper meanings behind stories. It explains how characters and symbols in stories can be reflective of various aspects of an individual's psyche, which can lead to personal insights and self-discovery.The Bridge Between Fairy Tales and Reality: The tale of Blue Beard, when interpreted through a psychological lens, imparts a lesson on confronting and overcoming internal barriers or negative aspects of oneself. It teaches the necessity of facing inner fears and truths to achieve self-awareness and personal growth.Connect with Chani Becker:Website: https://www.hothousedesignandpost.com/ | https://www.chanibecker.com/ Heather N. Wilde & Hezzie Mae Book PublishingWebsite: www.HezzieMae.comFacebook: Heather N. WildeDo you need an engaging, heartfelt speaker to inspire your audience? Heather brings a blend of authenticity, insight, and storytelling to every event. Whether addressing professional teams, high school audiences, or creative communities, Heather’s talks focus on personal growth, resilience, and the power of stories to transform lives. Reach out to hwilde@hezziemae.com to book Heather for your next event.

In this special birthday episode, we’re gettin’ real. I’m sharing 50 Years, 50 Truths—a mix of lighthearted laughs, gut-punch lessons, and the moments that shaped me. Some are sweet, some are raw, but all of them are honest. It’s my way of honoring the road I’ve walked and the ripples I hope to keep making as I cross the half-century mark. Heather N. Wilde & Hezzie Mae Book PublishingWebsite: www.HezzieMae.comFacebook: Heather N. WildeDo you need an engaging, heartfelt speaker to inspire your audience? Heather brings a blend of authenticity, insight, and storytelling to every event. Whether addressing professional teams, high school audiences, or creative communities, Heather’s talks focus on personal growth, resilience, and the power of stories to transform lives. Reach out to hwilde@hezziemae.com to book Heather for your next event.

In this episode, I’m joined by my daughter Evelyn. We talk about Evie’s journey through college, navigating relationships with peers and professors, and the pressures of graduating into an uncertain world. Evie shares advice on adjusting to college life, embracing change, and managing stress through personal hobbies and self-reflection.Embrace Change and Adaptability:  Evelyn shared her experiences transitioning from high school to college and how change is a constant in the healthcare industry. Embracing change and being adaptable is crucial for personal and professional growth.Importance of Communication: Evelyn emphasized the value of communication in her field and personal life. Good communication skills can enhance relationships and professional opportunities, leading to better collaboration with peers and mentors.Balancing Professionalism and Authenticity: While maintaining a professional demeanor, Evelyn also highlighted the importance of being true to oneself. She finds a balance between her professional responsibilities and her authentic, goofy self.Navigating Expectations and Self-Confidence: Evelyn discussed the pressure of living up to expectations but also the importance of having self-confidence. It’s essential to acknowledge the pressure but use it as a driving force rather than a deterrent.Self-Care and Stress Management: Evelyn shared her stress management strategies, such as cooking, going for long drives, and spending time outdoors. Finding personal methods to de-stress and recharge is vital for maintaining mental and emotional well-being. Heather N. Wilde & Hezzie Mae Book PublishingWebsite: www.HezzieMae.comFacebook: Heather N. WildeDo you need an engaging, heartfelt speaker to inspire your audience? Heather brings a blend of authenticity, insight, and storytelling to every event. Whether addressing professional teams, high school audiences, or creative communities, Heather’s talks focus on personal growth, resilience, and the power of stories to transform lives. Reach out to hwilde@hezziemae.com to book Heather for your next event.

In this episode, I’m joined by my friend and stylist, Sam Nelson, about the significant impact that understanding neurodivergence has had on their families. We discuss how awareness and accommodation of ADHD and sensory needs have transformed their parenting and professional lives. Sam shares experiences from her hairstyling career, emphasizing the importance of creating safe environments for neurodivergent individuals.Developing Relationships Over Time: Heather and Sam talk about the depth and quality of relationships that develop over the years, particularly highlighting the unique bond formed between stylist and client - and parent and child.Understanding and Navigating Neurodivergence: The importance of awareness and accommodation without necessarily relying on formal diagnoses to understand and support neurodivergent individuals.The Impact of Societal Expectations and Personal Adaptation: The challenges posed by societal norms and expectations that may not fit every individual. Both Heather and Sam’s stories of adapting parenting styles and creating non-traditional family routines advocate for letting go of societal pressures to better accommodate and support children's unique needs and well-being.Empowering Children and Parents Through Awareness and Acceptance: Sam’s professional approach of accommodating neurodivergent children in her stylist chair and Heather’s shift towards listening to her daughter's cues without guilt exemplify how understanding and acceptance can promote healthier, more resilient family dynamics. Heather N. Wilde & Hezzie Mae Book PublishingWebsite: www.HezzieMae.comFacebook: Heather N. WildeDo you need an engaging, heartfelt speaker to inspire your audience? Heather brings a blend of authenticity, insight, and storytelling to every event. Whether addressing professional teams, high school audiences, or creative communities, Heather’s talks focus on personal growth, resilience, and the power of stories to transform lives. Reach out to hwilde@hezziemae.com to book Heather for your next event.

In this episode, I’m joined by Marci Hawkinson. We talk about Marci’s story of transforming her life, embracing values, and setting boundaries. In addition, we also get into personal growth journeys, life coaching, self-care, morning rituals, and managing responses to external chaos to maintain personal peace and authenticity in an ever-noisy world.Embrace Personal Growth and Self-Awareness: Both Marci and Heather emphasize the importance of self-discovery, setting boundaries, and regularly reassessing personal values to align life decisions with inner truths.The Power of Female Friendships and Community: Strong, supportive female friendships and communities can provide invaluable emotional support and inspiration. Resilience Through Hard Decisions: Making difficult decisions, such as leaving a toxic relationship, is often necessary for personal well-being and growth. Intentional Consumption and Boundaries: Being mindful of what information and energy you consume is crucial for maintaining mental health. Connect with Marci Hawkinson:Website: https://marcihawkinson.com/Email: lifecoachmarci@gmail.comRaising Bigs Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/raising-bigs/id1744019001 Heather N. Wilde & Hezzie Mae Book PublishingWebsite: www.HezzieMae.comFacebook: Heather N. WildeDo you need an engaging, heartfelt speaker to inspire your audience? Heather brings a blend of authenticity, insight, and storytelling to every event. Whether addressing professional teams, high school audiences, or creative communities, Heather’s talks focus on personal growth, resilience, and the power of stories to transform lives. Reach out to hwilde@hezziemae.com to book Heather for your next event.

During a recent YWCA board meeting, I felt the weight of a shared truth—fear and stress are pressing in on all of us. I see it. I feel it. And I refuse to let it have the final say. In times like these, we need spaces that ground us, connect us, and remind us of our own power. That’s why I’m answering the call, stepping into the storm as a light for those who need it. One way I’m doing that is by opening a space every Wednesday night—an open writing group where we can show up, find connection, and turn fear into fuel. We don’t have to do this alone. What do we do to overcome that fear?A Message in a Dream: The topic of this episode isn't by chance but a call she felt strongly about, especially after receiving insights during sleep.Personal Development: A personal story of overcoming fear and how it has shaped me into a stronger individual who can now lead others.Community and Connection: The importance of community, connection, and being present with those around us, especially inInner Work: Finding your voice through writing and journaling can significantly help with your personal growth. Heather N. Wilde & Hezzie Mae Book PublishingWebsite: www.HezzieMae.comFacebook: Heather N. WildeDo you need an engaging, heartfelt speaker to inspire your audience? Heather brings a blend of authenticity, insight, and storytelling to every event. Whether addressing professional teams, high school audiences, or creative communities, Heather’s talks focus on personal growth, resilience, and the power of stories to transform lives. Reach out to hwilde@hezziemae.com to book Heather for your next event.