Closet Chaos & Chair Confessions

Some stories aren’t meant to be polished… they’re meant to be told.In this episode of Closet Chaos & Chair Confessions, Desiree sits down with Annie Berkey; someone from her past...for a conversation that’s raw, honest, and a little bit uncomfortable in the best way.Annie opens up about surviving childhood trauma, navigating addiction, and what it really looks like to rebuild your life from the ground up. Not the highlight reel version… the real version. The messy middle. The hard truths. The moments no one talks about.They dive into:what addiction actually looks like behind closed doorsthe long-term impact of childhood traumawhy healing isn’t linear (and never looks how you think it will)how faith, therapy, and safe spaces can change everythingand what it means to stop just surviving… and actually start livingThis episode isn’t about having it all figured out. It’s about being honest enough to face your story and brave enough to change it.If you’ve ever felt stuck, numb, overwhelmed, or like you’re carrying things no one sees… this conversation will hit home.Because the truth is you’re not alone. And your story isn’t over yet.

In this episode, we sit down with our friend Luisa, who shares her powerful journey from Australia to Iowa—and the wake-up call that changed how she sees health, beauty, and freedom.Luisa opens up about living in Australia during COVID-19, where extreme government control, lockdowns, and a social-credit-style system forced her to question how much control we should ever hand over. That experience sparked a deeper shift—one that led her toward self-sufficiency, living off the land, and prioritizing low-tox living as a non-negotiable.We dive into the beauty industry’s dirty little secrets: toxic ingredients hiding in “professional” products, how they impact long-term health, hormones, and scalp health, and why most people have no idea what they’re actually putting on their bodies. Luisa shares why transitioning to low-tox products isn’t always instant—but why it’s worth it.The conversation naturally leads into hair care, ingredient education, and why MONAT stood out as a solution that aligned with both performance and health. This episode isn’t about fear—it’s about awareness, choice, and taking your power back.If you care about what goes in your body, on your skin, and on your scalp—this one will make you think, pause, and probably read your shampoo bottle a little differently.Key TakeawaysLow-tox living isn’t trendy—it’s foundational for long-term healthMany beauty products contain ingredients that quietly work against your bodyGovernment control during COVID exposed uncomfortable truths about freedomEducation is the missing link in hair and beauty decisionsTransitioning to low-tox hair care takes patience—but delivers real resultsMONAT bridges the gap between clean ingredients and actual performance

This episode went rogue… and honestly, that’s exactly how it was supposed to go.In this special (and wildly unfiltered) episode of Closet Chaos & Chair Confessions, I handed the mic over to my nieces...because they’ve been begging to do a podcast and were way too excited not to let them have their moment. Joined by my sister Payten and our tiny co-hosts Charlee and Sutton, this conversation is equal parts hilarious, heartfelt, and completely unpredictable.We talk Christmas magic, what actually makes a “good day,” motherhood through a kid’s eyes, and the kind of honesty only kids can deliver...no filter, no agenda, just pure truth. There’s laughter, side tangents, kid logic that somehow makes more sense than adult logic, and a reminder that life (and parenting) isn’t meant to be perfectly structured.Was it polished? No.Was it planned? Absolutely not.Was it exactly what it needed to be? 100%.This one wasn’t for us; it was for them. And yes… they’re already asking to do another one. Will it be more structured next time? Maybe. No promises. That’s life with kids and honestly, that’s the magic.If you need a reminder to slow down, laugh more, and see the world through a simpler lens… this episode is it.

New year. Same body. New mindset.In this episode of Closet Chaos & Chair Confessions, Desiree and Heidi get real about what health actually looks like heading into 2026—no toxic positivity, no “just try harder” BS. We’re talking real health journeys, mental health check-ins, weight loss surgery truths, working with health coaches, and the uncomfortable (but necessary) self-awareness that comes with choosing yourself.This isn’t a glow-up overnight story. It’s the messy middle. The discipline. The grace. The moments where you realize not everything—or everyone—gets to come with you into your next chapter. We break down why sustainable wellness starts with compassion, why support systems matter more than motivation, and how setting realistic goals beats burning out by February.If you’re navigating weight loss, wellness, mental health, or simply trying to build healthier habits without hating yourself along the way—this episode will feel like a deep exhale. Less pressure. More honesty. And permission to do it your way.Because growth isn’t about perfection—it’s about staying in the room long enough to change.🎧 Perfect for anyone searching for:health journey podcast, mental health & wellness, weight loss mindset, self-care conversations, realistic New Year goals, women’s wellness podcast, personal growth in 2026

Thanksgiving in Spain, seasonal depression honesty, childhood fears that never fully left, and the chaotic magic of the holidays. In this episode, we’re catching up after Heidi’s solo trip to Southern Spain (10/10 recommend), unpacking Thanksgiving abroad, and easing back into real life at home. We talk solo travel nerves, big family gatherings, winter blues, and why this podcast has quietly become therapy with microphones. We also get into winter beauty must-haves, why gift cards are actually a top-tier gift, and wrap it all up with a Naughty or Nice holiday edition that gets a little too honest. If the holidays feel heavy, exciting, overwhelming, or all of the above you’re not alone. Grab your coffee or wine and settle in. This one feels like a deep exhale.

In this episode of Closet Chaos & Chair Confessions, we’re unpacking the beautiful, chaotic circus that is holiday season relationships and family life. From hosting stress and gift-giving fails (yes… ranch dressing), to the traditions that make us emotional and the wedding-day drama we’re still healing from — nothing is off-limits.We get real about one-sided relationships, burnout, and how to quit abandoning yourself just to keep the peace. We talk boundaries, family dynamics, holiday conflicts, and the kind of personal growth that only happens when you finally decide you’re done carrying everyone else’s emotional baggage.You’ll laugh, you’ll nod aggressively, and you’ll probably text this episode to your sister. And of course, we end with rapid-fire holiday questions that expose our quirks, our chaos, and our Midwest-girl hearts.If you’re craving relatable stories, a little therapy, and a reminder to choose you this season… this one’s your vibe.

This week’s episode is your official Thanksgiving survival guide served hot, messy, and beautifully real.We are pulling up a chair and spilling all the holiday tea: the traditions we love, the dishes we fight over (spoiler: the sides always win), the chaos of hosting, and the family dynamics that make you want to hug your people… and maybe hide in the pantry for five minutes.We’re diving into:✨ The unfiltered truth about hosting (and how to not lose your mind).✨ Our absolute must-have Thanksgiving dishes and the ones we politely avoid.✨ Holiday fashion do we dress cute or show up in stretchy pants and vibes only?✨ The family stories that live rent-free in our heads every single year.✨ Navigating drama with grace, boundaries, and a little humor.✨ Simple gratitude practices that hit different when life feels busy and loud.✨ The games that turn Thanksgiving night into a full-blown family tournament.If you’re craving a podcast that feels like sitting at the salon chair with your favorite girls real, raw, relatable, with a side of “I literally thought I was the only one” this one’s yours.Listen in, laugh with us, and walk into Thanksgiving feeling a little more prepared… and a whole lot less stressed.Press play let’s get you holiday-ready, babe

This week, Heidi and I went all in on the beautiful chaos of life because let’s be honest, none of us have it figured out. We’re talking the real stuff: being stretched thin, finding moments of sanity, saying “yes” when it scares you, and learning when it’s time to purge the clutter (physical and mental).We swapped stories about the moments that knocked us on our butts… and the ones that pulled us right back up. We unpacked those hard-earned life lessons, the fall reset energy we’re both chasing, and how to prioritize what actually matters when the world feels loud.If you’ve been craving a fresh start, a little permission to breathe, or a reminder that you're not the only one juggling 17 plates while trying to find yourself again… this episode is your warm, slightly chaotic hug.Grab your coffee, your clutter pile, or your car keys for your Target run and tune in.Listen in and then tell us: What season of life are you in right now? What are you ready to release, reset, or say yes to?

🎙️ From handcuffs to highbrows, this week’s episode is a ride.We sat down with Jen from Justified Beauty, a 22-year corrections vet turned beauty boss and travel agency owner, to talk about the wild pivot that changed her life (and a whole lot of brows).This episode’s got it all: hilarious client storiesraw talk on permanent makeup mythshard-won business lessons* travel dreams💬 and the kind of honesty you can only get from a woman who’s seen it all.If you’ve ever thought about taking a leap, reinventing yourself, or just need a good laugh while chasing your own version of “making it,” this one’s for you.Listen now — it’s equal parts real talk, belly laughs, and women supporting women.#Podcast #WomenInBusiness #EntrepreneurLife #PermanentMakeup #BeautyBoss #JustifiedBeauty #ClosetChaosAndChairConfessions #StyleByDesiree #MidwestWomen #SalonTalks #RealRawRelatable

This week, Desiree and Heidi sit down with Kristine from Hot Works to talk all things wellness, time management, and that post-sauna glow-up energy. From infrared workouts that actually fit into real life, to the power of community and self-care, this episode dives deep into how women can take control of their health—without losing their minds or their schedules.Expect real talk, laughs, and a few sweaty truths about balance, burnout, and becoming your strongest self—inside and out.✨ Because your glow-up era starts in the sauna.Tags: Hot Works, fitness, wellness, infrared sauna, women empowerment, time management, personal growth, fitness transformationJOIN HOTWORX NOW: https://sailpos.hotworx.net/customerportal/IA0007/scheduleSession/?emp_refer=MzIyNjE0OHx8MjMxNA==

Ever wonder what really happens behind the chair? In this episode of Closet Chaos & Chair Confessions, we’re spilling the tea (and maybe a little hair color) on salon life...the chaos, the confidence, and the moments that make it all worth it. From beauty school myths to wild client stories and everything in between, we’re talking about what it really takes to build confidence in this industry.We’ll dive into the unfiltered side of cosmetology... the highs, the heartbreaks, and the hilarious things clients say when the cape goes on. You’ll laugh, you’ll nod in agreement, and you’ll walk away remembering why empowering women (and yourself) starts right there in the salon chair.And of course, we end with our favorite segment: Quickfire Questions + The Wheel of Chaos... because every great stylist has a few secrets worth confessing.💇‍♀️ Listen in for the laughs, the lessons, and a whole lot of real talk straight from behind the chair.

Strong looks different on every woman...and today we’re proving it. We sit down with Amy, owner of Refinery Strength Collective (Altoona, IA), to talk women’s strength training, rebuilding muscle after perimenopause/menopause, and lifting when you’re navigating autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s. We get real about why “work harder, eat less” fails women, how to listen to your body’s cues, and why muscle (not misery) is the secret to a better metabolism, bone density, balance, and confidence. Amy breaks down beginner-friendly lifting (yes, at home), the minimum effective dose (2x/week, ~30 min), and how to tailor training without burning out your nervous system...or your schedule. We also touch GLP-1s (Ozempic/semaglutide), protein priorities, and the mental health boost that comes from moving your body on purpose. Expect laughs (gym oops happen), real talk (no “skinny talk” here), and tangible next steps to feel strong from the inside out.If you’ve ever felt lost in a weight room, overwhelmed by wellness advice, or stuck in a changing body...this one’s for you.Follow Amy on IG @refinerystrengthco and book a quick discovery call to see what fits your season.Takeaways: minimum-effort lifting plan for busy women, movement “snacks,” safe form basics, at-home vs. gym gear, virtual coaching options, how to build strength through peri/menopause and autoimmune flares.

In this episode of Closet Chaos & Chair Confessions, Desiree and Heidi dive headfirst into the mess—and meaning—behind our closets. From emotional shopping to those “I have nothing to wear” mornings, they unpack why clothes can hold so much power over how we feel.They talk about:Why 80% of your closet might be collecting dustThe emotional rollercoaster of shopping and letting goHow “enclosed cognition” (yep, it’s a real thing) proves your outfit actually changes your mindsetThe confidence shift that happens when you wear something that truly feels like youWhy purging your closet can clear your mind—and your energyThey wrap it all up with their signature quick-fire questions, dishing on their favorite go-to outfits, emotional purchases, and the items they’d never give up.Whether you’re ready to ditch what no longer serves you or just need a confidence boost, this one’s your sign to start dressing like the woman you want to be.

This week we sit down with our dear friend and client, Jalisha, who opens up about her journey through breast cancer. She shares the raw truth—the fear, the faith, the laughter, and the lessons—that carried her through treatment.Jalisha reminds us that it’s okay to not be okay, that humor can lighten even the heaviest days, and that true friends and community can hold you up when you can’t stand on your own. From advocating for herself in the healthcare system to finding joy in staying active, her story is proof of just how powerful resilience and faith can be.✨ Takeaways you’ll love:Staying active gave Jalisha purpose and joy during treatment.Self-advocacy and trusting your instincts are lifesaving.Humor and faith can ease the weight of illness.It’s okay to feel the highs and lows—healing isn’t linear.True friends and community support make all the difference.This isn’t just a story about cancer—it’s Jalisha’s story of hope, resilience, and the power of faith and friendship. 💕

In this episode of Closet Chaos and Chair Confessions, Desiree and Heidi dive into the transition from summer to fall, discussing hair care tips, wardrobe essentials, and personal styling advice. They emphasize the importance of hydration for hair, the need for a seasonal wardrobe refresh, and the significance of consultations with stylists. The conversation also touches on color trends, personal style, and the fun of sharing fall hair fails. The episode wraps up with quick-fire questions that reveal personal preferences and styling tips for the fall season. takeaways Seasonal shedding is common during fall transitions. Hydration is key for both hair and skin in fall. Changing hair products with the seasons is essential. Consultations with stylists should include clear communication. Personal style should prioritize what looks good on you. Invest in versatile fall wardrobe pieces. Layering is a great way to elevate outfits. Hats can be both stylish and practical for fall. Don't be afraid to experiment with colors that suit you. Make getting ready easier by planning outfits ahead.

In this episode, Heidi and Desiree recap their recent girls' trip to Vegas, discussing the importance of taking time for oneself and the joy of traveling with friends. They share their culinary adventures, favorite restaurants, and experiences at the pool and on Fremont Street. The conversation also touches on the nightlife, unique bars, and the importance of fashion and confidence while traveling. They emphasize the supportive community among women and the need for safety and awareness while enjoying a trip. The episode concludes with reflections on the trip and plans for future adventures.Takeaways: Girls' trips are essential for self-care and bonding.Traveling can help alleviate burnout and stress.Vegas offers a diverse culinary scene worth exploring.Unique experiences, like pool days, enhance travel enjoyment.Gambling can be fun, even for non-gamblers.Fashion choices can boost confidence during trips.Supportive communities among women are invaluable.Safety awareness is crucial when traveling, especially in unfamiliar places.Traveling with friends creates lasting memories and experiences.Planning future trips can be exciting and motivating.

In this episode, Heidi and Desiree share their experiences in Las Vegas, discussing their adventures, dining experiences, and the challenges of packing for a trip. They reflect on the vibrant nightlife of Fremont Street, the delicious drinks and meals they've enjoyed, and the importance of comfort in fashion choices while traveling. The conversation also touches on health challenges faced before/during the trip and plans for future visits to Vegas.

Ever stood in front of your closet packed with clothes and thought, “I have nothing to wear”? Yep, us too. In this episode of Closet Chaos & Chair Confessions, we dive into the real-life struggle every woman knows all too well: navigating a full closet with zero inspiration.We get into the emotional side of fashion—why we hang on to clothes, how COVID completely flipped our style choices, and why it feels so hard to dress for different occasions. From the never-ending sizing frustrations in the fashion industry to breaking free from the athleisure rut, we’re talking confidence, body positivity, and how to actually feel good in your clothes again.We’ll also spill some styling tips, share why surrounding yourself with supportive people matters more than you think, and wrap it up with a fun round of quickfire fashion questions.✨ Bonus: we’re officially inviting you into our Style Squad—your new go-to girl gang for fashion advice, confidence boosts, and those “should I buy this?” texts.If you’ve ever wanted fashion talk that’s unfiltered, relatable, and a little sassy (with a glass of wine on the side), this episode is for you.

We’re finally doing the damn thing. Welcome to the very first episode of Closet Chaos & Chair Confessions! ✨In true Desiree + Heidi fashion, we’re keeping it real — talking about how this podcast came to life, why authenticity matters more than anything in business (and in life), and how we’ve gone from casual Facebook Lives to pulling up a chair and getting more personal than ever.We’ll dive into the messy, unfiltered parts of running a salon + boutique, the pivots we’ve had to make along the way, and how we’re building a shopping + styling experience that feels more like hanging out with your girlfriends than just buying clothes.And because it wouldn’t be us without some fun — we wrap it up with a quick-fire round that shows off our friendship and a little chaos in the best way. 🥂👠If you’re ready for fashion, real talk, and the conversations women don’t always say out loud… you’ve found your people.