Building A Life And Business Together

In this episode of Building a Life and Business Together, Stephanie and I share what we’ve each been working on and experiencing over the past week. I open the conversation with an exciting update on a long-awaited project: bringing my Building an Online Business course to completion. This course will become the foundation for much of my future messaging and marketing as I continue helping entrepreneurs build and grow their businesses to the next level. I also talk about the different versions of offers I’m currently considering and how they’ll fit into the bigger picture of what’s next for my coaching and course strategy. Stephanie shares about her most recent episode of The Thriving Mosaic podcast, episode 75, where she opens up about what it’s like to parent adult children. She also shares the mental shifts that helped her move through resistance and find her creative flow again , leading her back into content creation. I also talk about my weekend filled with amateur radio activity and the fun of going bowling with my dad and Matthew, a reminder of how much I value time spent together outside of work. We wrap up by reflecting on the season one finale of Blood of My Blood and sharing our thoughts on how the story concluded. It’s a grounded, personal episode that captures what life and business really look like when they unfold side by side.

In this episode of Building a Life and Business Together, Stephanie and I take you along for a relaxed fall walk and an unexpected creative adventure that unfolded over the weekend. We start with a simple reflection on what we love most about being self-employed, the freedom to take a Friday off for a spontaneous date day. That freedom, as it turns out, led straight into an experience that reignited a creative spark in a way I didn’t see coming. Stephanie shares her excitement over Taylor Swift’s latest album and how the theater release event was put together with lyric videos, behind-the-scenes clips, and Taylor’s commentary about her creative process. Hearing her talk about it reminded me of what happens when an artist gives themselves full permission to explore. Sitting there in that movie theater, I felt a wave of inspiration hit. Before the credits even rolled, I was jotting notes in my phone for something completely unexpected: a Scottish folk album. Back at home later that day, I went downstairs to my studio and opened Suno.ai. Two hours later, I had written and produced seven original tracks, complete with album art inspired by a photo I took in the Highlands of Scotland. The result became my new album, Highland Whispers. It’s a collection of modern Scottish folk songs that capture the same sense of beauty, mystery, and freedom I felt while driving through Glencoe years ago. I share two of those songs. It Will All Work Out can be heard in the middle of the episode and Highland Shadows can be heard at the very end. Lyrics and links to the full album are available at the bottom of these show notes. We also talk about the conversation that followed. Stephanie’s honest reaction to my process, the difference between “creating from scratch” and co-creating with new tools, and how technology can open doors for people who’ve always had music in their heart but not necessarily the traditional skills to bring it forward. I share why this project wasn’t about business strategy or branding at all. It was simply about creating for joy. From there, our walk turns toward everyday life again: our family outing to Homearama, where we explored seven custom-built homes and talked about design, personality, and what makes a space feel alive. And finally, I share a few updates on what’s happening inside my business such at the Building an Online Business course, possible new mastermind experiences, and what’s next on the creative horizon. Key Themes The freedom that comes with designing your own schedule. Inspiration as something you can’t plan for, but can make space for. How creativity and technology are blending in new ways. Doing things purely for joy, without attaching them to business outcomes. The importance of trusting your creative flow and letting it lead where it will. The Path Forward This episode is a reminder that inspiration rarely arrives when we’re forcing outcomes. It shows up in the in-between moments. When we stay open, anything can happen… even an entire Scottish folk album in a single afternoon. Find Highland Whispers Full Album With These Links Album Promo Link: https://artists.landr.com/057829749382 Apple Music Spotify YouTube Music Amazon Music Pandora It Will All Work Out [Verse 1] Clouds are heavy but they drift away The darkest nights still lead to day The river bends but finds the sea What’s meant to be will always be [Prechorus] You can’t see the stars through the storm But they’re there Keeping warm [Chorus] It will all work out It will all work out When the doubts come loud Shout them out shout them out Through the twists and turns and the fear and doubt Hold on tight It will all work out [Verse 2] The road is cracked but it still goes on A broken clock still finds the dawn Every puzzle piece has its place Every fall gives you the space [Prechorus] To rise again To try once more Every closed door hides a door [Chorus] It will all work out It will all work out When the doubts come loud Shout them out shout them out Through the twists and turns and the fear and doubt Hold on tight It will all work out Highland Shadows The heather sways The winds they cry A lone stag watches the fading sky Stone walls crumble Moss grows deep Ancient whispers where the mountains sleep Oh Highland shadows Where do you roam? Through the mist To the heart of home Carry my longing Carry my name Through the glens Through the rain The same The loch lies still Dark and wide Secrets ripple just beneath the tide A blackbird's song cuts through the grey Echoes fade Then drift away Clouds roll heavy Skies weep low Do they grieve for what we’ll never know? Oh Highland shadows Where do you roam? Through the mist To the heart of home Carry my longing Carry my name Through the glens Through the rain The same The piper’s wail on a distant hill A sound that lingers Quiet Still I’ve walked this land I’ve called it mine But the shadows They belong to time Find Highland Whispers Full Album With These Links Album Promo Link: https://artists.landr.com/057829749382 Apple Music Spotify YouTube Music Amazon Music Pandora  

In this episode of Building a Life and Business Together, Stephanie and I open up about what’s been happening in our personal lives and in our business. We start lightheartedly, talking about her excitement for an upcoming Taylor Swift release in theaters and our family’s long-standing tradition of attending Homearama. We even share a bit of our everyday banter, complete with neighborhood interruptions, geese crossings, and pizza talk. From there, the conversation takes a deeper turn. I reflect on the past couple of years in our business, specifically the financial ebbs we’ve experienced, the choices that led us here, and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. I share candidly about my journey of shifting focus, experimenting with how I show up, and the impact that my spiritual exploration has had on my audience and income. Stephanie and I discuss the reality of walking through a long ebb season, what it’s taught us about authenticity, and how it’s led me to make a major decision: I’m shifting my professional focus back to the core audiences who first connected with my work, successful entrepreneurs, those in the struggle of building, and aspiring business owners. I unpack the importance of product-to-market fit, why I’ve decided to lean back into practical, actionable business strategy and mindset coaching, and how this change doesn’t mean abandoning depth or authenticity. Instead, it means meeting people where they are and guiding them from there. This episode is part behind-the-scenes reflection, part real-time pivot, and part encouragement for anyone who’s navigating seasons of transition in their own work. If you’ve ever wrestled with clarity, messaging, or wondering how to serve people in a way that connects, I think you’ll find this conversation both relatable and inspiring.

In this episode, Stephanie and I share unexpected adventure that took place when both Planet Fitness and Walmart lost power on the same rainy morning. From there, the conversation flows into our latest binge of Outlander: Blood of My Blood, the way storytelling keeps pulling us into new worlds. We discuss our thoughts about returning to content creation in the entertainment space. Stephanie opens up about the tension she feels at home: wanting to launch back into her creative work while also feeling “trapped” by the clutter and unfinished projects in the house. I share about attending my Aunt Joyce’s memorial service and the reflections it stirred in me about the way we live, the way so many people in the world fight, and the way we often miss the bigger picture of what matters most. I shared a few updates about my business: Why I’m ending this season of my daily “Ask Me Anything” livestreams The meaningful connections that came from them My plans to reach new audiences by collaborating with peers and creating short-run niche podcasts And the big decision to retire the “Pay What You Want” model for the Free the Dream Workshop, moving instead to a clear investment and considering the return of the bonus mastermind day.

In this week’s episode, Stephanie and I invite you to join us on a walk as we catch up on the highlights of our recent days together. We start with a fun conversation about the Downton Abbey finale movie and why that series has always held a special place in our lives. From the costumes and music to the way it wove history into storytelling, it gave us both a lot to reflect on about changing times and the comforts of today. From there, we shift into our weekend adventures. We share about our trip to Natural Bridge State Park in Kentucky, where I got to combine exploring nature with one of my favorite hobbies, Parks on the Air, and successfully activated the park from the top of the bridge. Stephanie also opens up about her relationship with heights and what it was like for her to take the chairlift up and down. Of course, no adventure is complete without great food. We tell the story of discovering Miguel’s Pizza. Stephanie compares it to some of her all-time favorites, and we both agree that it will be hard not to go back there every time we’re in the Red River Gorge area. Finally, we wrap things up with our thoughts on finishing season seven of Outlander and diving into the new spin-off, Blood of My Blood. This episode is about more than entertainment or weekend getaways. It’s about how simple, intentional choices, whether it’s carving out time for a movie, a walk, a shared meal, or a trip into nature, build the memories and rhythms of life and business together.  

In this episode of Building A Life & Business Together, Stephanie and I take you inside one of the most unique weekends we’ve had in a while. We start with something lighthearted… Stephanie calling me out for my “old man” sock choice. From there, we dive into a full weekend of dog-sitting chaos. With McKenna home briefly to take the LSAT, and Megan and Jacob away in Chicago, we found ourselves caring for not one, not two, but three dogs. Amelia, their youngest rescue, kept us on our toes with boundless energy and more than a few “accidents.” Maggie, their powerhouse mid-sized dog, reminded us just how strong a 40-pound dog can be. And of course, Leo, our steady companion, kept to his 7:24 AM wake-up ritual. The whole experience left us both exhausted and laughing, reflecting on how much patience, training, and routine shape not just dogs but also our lives. We also share our latest thoughts on Outlander. As long-time fans, we’ve noticed a shift in the writing during the second half of Season 7. While the show still delivers breathtaking cinematography and mystery, there are some storylines that left us shaking our heads. Still, the sci-fi elements and time-travel intrigue pulled me back in, and Stephanie and I talk openly about what keeps us watching. On a personal note, I share an update about being 22 days back into keto. The clarity, energy, and freedom from sugar cravings have been a game-changer, and I reflect on why this lifestyle feels so aligned for me. Finally, I talk about my amateur radio hobby and how I recently climbed into first place on the Parks on the Air leaderboard for our local park. From bug bites in Burlington to pushing through technical antenna issues in the Smoky Mountains, I share how persistence, adaptability, and a little playful competition make this hobby so enjoyable. This episode is a mix of family stories, reflections on entertainment, health updates, and the joy of pursuing passions. It’s a glimpse into the rhythm of our life together… chaotic, meaningful, and always full of lessons. Until next time, we encourage you to live your life on purpose.  

In this episode of Building a Life and Business Together, Stephanie and I share a full, behind-the-scenes debrief of the August 2025 Free The Dream Workshop. I start by setting the scene, beautiful fall-like weather, crisp air, and the kind of day that makes you want to savor every moment. But the real story begins when we dive into what happened over those two days at the Free The Dream Workshop, where four attendees joined us for a powerful, intimate experience. The Breakthroughs We Witnessed One of the most moving parts of the weekend was seeing attendees have life-changing realizations right in front of our eyes. Scott, one of our participants, said he received what he came for within the first two hours. Another attendee, Sara, who admitted she was “dragged there” by her husband, experienced a breakthrough that completely changed how she’ll approach relationships at work moving forward. We talk about what it was like to watch those moments unfold, and how asking each participant to name their “miracle” at the start set the tone for the entire workshop. Why We Changed the Format In this episode, I explain why this workshop was structured different. For the first time ever, we offered it as a Pay-What-You-Want event. No set ticket price. No minimum. People could attend for free if they wanted. We also changed the lunch and dinner format. Instead of sending everyone out on their own, we provided lunch on-site and took everyone out to dinner as a group, creating deeper connections and saving valuable session time. The Power of Small Groups Stephanie and I share why we’ve decided to limit future workshops to just 10 participants. The August event reminded us how intimacy creates space for deeper breakthroughs, personalized discussions, and the flexibility to follow the energy of the room rather than a rigid agenda. We also discuss how the interactive whiteboard sessions, spontaneous metaphors, and real-time coaching moments brought our vision to life, successfully transforming this from a traditional conference into a true workshop experience. Lessons for the Future We cover what worked well, what we’ll keep the same, and what will change for the upcoming October 17–18 workshop: The venue was perfect. Asking participants to set their own intentions at the start will now be a permanent part of every future workshop. We’ll continue to let the energy of the room guide the agenda rather than forcing a fixed schedule. Why This Matters to You If you’ve ever wondered what really happens at a Free The Dream Workshop, beyond the promotional page, this episode gives you the honest, unfiltered story. We share the highs, the surprises, the lessons learned, and why we believe limiting attendance to 10 people will make the next one even more powerful. The Path Forward By the end of this episode, you’ll know exactly what made August’s workshop unforgettable and why October’s event is shaping up to be our most transformative yet. If you feel the pull to be in the room, visit FreeTheDreamWorkshop.com to reserve your spot for October 17–18.  

When Stephanie and I hit record on this episode, we were sitting in the car, laughing about seatbelts, dog grooming appointments, and heading down to the river park before our day really got moving. What started as lighthearted banter turned into one of those conversations that just kept going deeper and deeper the more we walked. Here’s what we talked about and what you can expect as you listen in: Free The Dream Workshop: Behind the Scenes I shared some real-time updates about the upcoming Free The Dream Workshop. Registrations coming in, a few last-minute changes, even a participant who backed out after realizing a small group might mean opening up more than he was ready for. We talked about why small, intimate workshops often create the biggest breakthroughs and why we’ll always hold space for whoever shows up, whether it’s one person or twenty. Stephanie also let you into her process for preparing her session, choosing personal stories, and making it interactive rather than just another “talk.” Thrill vs. Comfort: Why We Delay Our Dreams I introduced a teaching that says the mind is always seeking thrills. Stephanie contrasted it with another teaching that says the mind is always seeking comfort. As we compared both, we realized they’re both true, and that’s where so many of us get stuck. We want the thrill of big dreams, but we also want the comfort of what’s familiar. Sometimes the dream itself becomes a kind of “safe excitement” as long as it stays out in the future. We explored how this shows up in our lives, our business, and even in the people we coach. One story I shared was about a client who admitted he didn’t want to fully let go of stress because part of him felt unworthy of success without struggle. That conversation tied directly into the theme of the mind chasing thrills while clinging to comfort. My Own Stories of Risk and Resistance I got honest about times in my own life when I delayed taking action, when I kept dreams safely out on the horizon so I wouldn’t have to risk failure or disrupt what was familiar. I shared how I finally moved forward on hosting my first workshops, the resistance I felt leading up to it, and the role my friend Ray Edwards played in helping me step past fear into action. Stephanie connected this back to the workshop participant who canceled, pointing out how perfectionism and fear of being seen often keep us from the very breakthroughs we want. Health Shifts: From Carnivore to Keto We shifted gears to talk about our health journey, starting with a strict carnivore reset, adding vegetables back in, and where we’ve each landed with keto and low-carb eating. Stephanie talked about tracking her macros and how too few carbs can make her “snappish,” while I shared how much better I’ve felt since getting back into ketosis after being away from it for years. For us, this wasn’t just about diet. It mirrored the larger conversation about comfort zones, risk, and building a lifestyle that actually works long-term rather than swinging between extremes. “Shouldn’t You Be Bigger?” and Redefining Success I read an email from a listener who asked why I’m not “bigger” like some of the well-known thought leaders out there. My response? I’m not chasing numbers, fame, or status. I care about going deep with the people I’m called to serve, whether that’s one person or one million. Stephanie and I both agreed: we’re exactly where we’re supposed to be, doing exactly what we’re supposed to be doing. Final Thoughts and an Invitation We wrapped up with a reminder that there’s still time to join us at the next Free The Dream Workshop. If today’s conversation speaks to you, if you’re tired of delaying your dreams or holding back because of fear, we’d love to see you there. It’s a two-day, pay-what-you-want experience designed to help you break free from limiting beliefs, release the grip of fear, and start living with courage and clarity. You can register at FreeTheDreamWorkshop.com.  

What I love about these conversations is that they go beyond surface topics. Beneath each story or update runs a deeper thread of meaning, growth, and awakening. As I reflect on this walk-and-talk recording, here are the insights that stand out most: 29 Years of Marriage, 30 Years Together We celebrated our 29th wedding anniversary without fanfare. I read while Stephanie enjoyed a three-hour nap. Later, we made a Costco run and had burgers and fries for dinner. And you know what? It was perfect. The longer I live, the more I realize that celebration isn't about external performance. It's about the quiet comfort of being fully ourselves with each other. We don't need to "prove" our marriage's depth through elaborate events. Every day filled with laughter, presence, and unconditional love is the celebration itself. 20 Years of Podcasting & A Documented Life In December, we'll mark 20 years since publishing our first podcast. That means two-thirds of our marriage has been captured with microphones nearby. Add to that ten prior years of blogging and journaling, and it's clear: our entire life together has been thoroughly documented. This isn't just about creating content for me. I believe these archives serve as medicine, not just for my own reflection, but for anyone who discovers them and finds something that resonates. It's also amazing to have a sacred record of our journey. Passports & Possibility We also discussed passports. Mine is misplaced, and both of ours have expired. Yet I have this strong feeling that opportunities for travel will emerge once we get them renewed. Renewing our passports feels more like making a declaration than completing paperwork: we are ready for further expansion. It's a simple yet powerful act of faith. Our Eating “Palm” Stephanie and I laughed about a typo that turned "eating plan" into "eating palm." But beneath the humor, this conversation ran deep. Stephanie is beginning a metabolism reset, and I decided to join her. Not because I'm ashamed of my current state, but because I finally feel free to make health choices unconstrained by performance expectations. Years ago, I built an identity around being a "fitness guy." When that identity collapsed during the pandemic, it pushed me into a deeper spiritual awakening. I share more about this journey in the episode. What I've discovered is that my worth isn't tied to weight, diet, or performance. Radical acceptance came first. Now, from that place of peace, I can make choices again, not to silence shame, but simply because I want to. McKenna’s Move Back to Bowling Green Dropping our daughter McKenna off for another year at college was more difficult this time. She felt the separation deeply, and we shared in her emotions. But what I noticed was her growth. She named her emotions. She asked for comfort. And she reframed her own experience in real time, reminding herself she always feels anxious before school starts and that she’ll settle into a groove again. To witness her self-awareness was a powerful reminder: maturity isn’t about never struggling. It’s about knowing you can move through struggle with grace. Free The Dream Workshop Revisiting a recorded conversation with attendees from the April 2023 Free The Dream Workshop rekindled my enthusiasm for the workbooks, frameworks, and core essence of the workshop. For a moment, I had doubted whether the material was “too much” for people from certain backgrounds. But revisiting that recording reminded me: when I share without agenda, the right people always find deep value. I've ordered additional workbooks as we're committed to hosting these gatherings on a regular basis. Whether three people attend or thirty, these workshops provide a sacred space for participants to clear their mental noise, reconnect with their authentic selves, and rediscover what's possible in their lives. Register at FreeTheDreamWorkshop.com Reflections on Taylor Swift We also talked about Taylor Swift’s recent podcast interview with Travis and Jason Kelce. Stephanie loved it. I enjoyed it too, though on reflection I realized how much of it was orchestrated with intentional Easter eggs and messaging. For me, it raised bigger questions: what does it mean to be authentic in public? How do you balance vulnerability with stewardship of influence? It reminded me of my own journey. Even at our much smaller scale, there have been times when our visibility attracted situations that made me pause and ask: How much am I willing to share? The truth is, all of us have personas we bring into the world. Authenticity doesn’t mean abandoning them. It means making sure what we present is in alignment with what is real within us. The Path Forward The thread running through all of these conversations is the same: freedom comes not from performance, but from presence. Whether it’s celebrating a marriage, making health choices, parenting through transitions, hosting a workshop, or reflecting on celebrity culture, the invitation is the same: to live in radical acceptance, to trust the unfolding, and to create from a place of joy and wholeness. That is the life and business that we are building. And that is the journey we invite you into with us in this episode.  

In this episode of Building a Life and Business Together, Stephanie and I take you along for one of our neighborhood walks and catch you up on everything from birthday celebrations to long-awaited roof repairs. We start with Stephanie’s birthday and how she spent it exactly the way she wanted, a slow morning, a nostalgic trip to the movies to see Freakier Friday, and a homemade dinner that turned out better than I expected. We talk about the joy of family game night, the chocolate-on-chocolate cake that stole the show, and how even a simple day can become a treasured memory. Then, we finally close the chapter on our year-long roof leak saga. I walk you through the twists, turns, and unexpected theories that brought us to the (hopefully final) fix, and we share our cautious optimism as we wait for the next big storms to confirm. We also touch on a behind-the-scenes story about editing a wedding photo, the handful of confirmed listeners who keep us company each week, and where things stand with the upcoming Free The Dream Workshop. It’s real life. A mix of the lighthearted, the frustrating, and the deeply personal. All shared as it unfolded. If you enjoy unfiltered conversations about marriage, family, and building a life you love, you’ll feel right at home here. Register For Free The Dream Workshop Stephanie and I invite you to join us for the next Free The Dream Workshop on Friday and Saturday, August 29th and 30th, 2025. This is a two-day experience designed to clear the noise, uncover what’s next, and help you remember the part of you that’s still waiting to be lived. Whether you come with a clear goal or just a sense that something needs to change, you’ll leave with fresh insight, practical tools, and the courage to take your next step. You can learn more and secure your spot at FreeTheDreamWorkshop.com.

In this episode of Building a Life and Business Together, Stephanie and I invite you into one of our walking conversations—unfiltered, unpolished, and deeply real. We talk about: The relief of cooler weather after weeks of oppressive heat Why we bought a showerhead from Lowe’s because of an Airbnb How home doesn’t feel the same when the kids move back in (even temporarily) Why our bedroom is sacred space, and what it feels like when that space gets disrupted Stephanie’s crate vs. my crate—and how both reveal what we truly need Some binge-worthy shows we’ve been enjoying Our experience at Music Under the Stars (where Meagan helps plan the event) My latest reads, including a fiction thriller from Ray Edwards and The Map of Consciousness Explained The joy of bowling with my dad, even when I lose There’s no teaching agenda here. No coaching structure. Just life, presence, and sacred conversation in motion. This episode is a glimpse into what it means to build a life together—not just a business, but an energy field. One that shifts when the people shift. One that evolves when we do. One that remembers joy in the midst of routine. Invitation to Free The Dream Workshop If this conversation stirred something in you, if you’re craving the kind of stillness, clarity, and grounded direction that often gets buried beneath the noise of daily life, we want to invite you to something special. Stephanie and I are hosting a two-day, in-person workshop this August 29th and 30th in Hebron, Kentucky. It’s called the Free The Dream Workshop. And it’s unlike anything we’ve ever offered before. This is a pay-what-you-want event. No fixed ticket price. No financial barrier. Just a powerful container for you to clear the noise, uncover what’s next, and remember the part of you that’s still waiting to be lived. We’re limiting it to 50 people, and a few spots are already claimed. If this speaks to you, go to FreeTheDreamWorkshop.com and register now. We trust that the right people are already on the way. You’ll know if you’re one of them. Cliff  

In this episode, Stephanie and I return to the mics (indoors!) with a full life update, including exciting news about the upcoming Free The Dream Workshop happening August 29–30 at the Hebron branch of the Boone County Public Library. We unpack: The confirmed location, date, and structure of the event Why we’re offering it with a pay-what-you-want model What kind of transformation attendees can expect How to join us (spoiler: there’s no sales page—just email me at cliff@cliffravenscraft.com) Then we dive deep into the saga of our ever-leaking roof and the unexpected peace we’ve found in the midst of it. From insurance claims and delayed drywall to divine timing and next-home dreaming, we explore what it means to live in radical trust when nothing seems certain, yet everything feels aligned. We also share: How a Better Blend smoothie became our newest obsession The beautiful experience of attending Music Under the Stars (and why we're making it a regular date night) Reflections on possibly downsizing, building a retreat center, and what our next dream home might look like Even as we sit in liminal space, with unresolved repairs, open timelines, and unfolding dreams—there is joy, clarity, and a sense of sacred movement. This is what building a life and business together really looks like: trusting the next step, even when you can’t see the whole path. Until next time, we encourage you to build your life… and business… together.  

In this episode, Stephanie and I sat down in one of the local public library meeting rooms to record an honest, behind-the-scenes conversation about what’s stirring in our life and business right now. We talk about the return of Free the Dream (or… is it Building a Soul-Aligned Business?) and why we’re feeling called to step back into the rhythm of live events again. From our first workshops in the Next Level Studio, to Free the Dream conferences in Franklin, TN, to the new rooms we're reserving at the local library, we’re reimagining what it looks like to gather in person, with meaning and depth — minus the performance and overhead. We also dive into some very real reflections on business models, coaching, finances, and what it would take to generate $20K/month (or more) in a way that feels fully aligned with our current season. I share transparently about pricing, client capacity, and why I’m not chasing coaching clients, but rather creating space for resonance and miracles. Other highlights in this episode: Our 9-hour drive home from Tennessee on a donut tire (and how it actually saved us $1,000) How my most recent dental "crisis" may have been a divine nudge, which worked out perfectly to get the healing I needed without an unnecessary root canal How my new live stream series (How May I Serve You? Ask Me Anything) has become one of the most fulfilling creative practices I’ve returned to in years The deeper theme that runs through all of this? Presence. Alignment. Doing what feels joyful, spacious, and true. If you’re curious about joining us for one of our upcoming workshops, email me directly at cliff@cliffravenscraft.com and I’ll keep you in the loop. We’re not chasing numbers or planning for scale. We’re showing up with open hearts, a deep well of experience, and a desire to serve whoever feels called to step into the space with us. This is what building a life and business together looks like for us in this season. One decision, one flat tire, one library meeting room reservation at a time.  

In this episode, Stephanie and I invite you to join us for a relaxing evening boat ride at the lake house in Tennessee. We share stories from our ten-day family vacation, including memorable meals (yes, I finally tried fried green tomatoes!), adventures on the water, and the simple joys of unplugging and spending time together. We reflect on the transitions happening in our lives, like the possible sale of the family lake house, letting go of long-standing commitments, and dreaming about what’s next. We talk about the importance of rest, the value of family traditions, and how stepping away from routine can spark new inspiration. You’ll also hear about our favorite local restaurants, our thoughts on e-readers (including a Kindle review from Stephanie), and some candid moments about what it means to embrace change and create new beginnings. Whether you’re here for the stories, the laughter, or a little inspiration for your own journey, we’re glad you’re with us on this ride.

In this episode, Stephanie and I kick things off with some laughs about our favorite (and not-so-favorite) teachers, which somehow led us to reflect on how those experiences shaped our own parenting philosophies. We dive deep into the realities of raising kids, the importance of letting home be a safe space for emotional expression, and why we cared more about our children’s character in the world than their behavior at home. We also discuss the evolution of our marriage, 29 years and counting, and what it means to truly choose each other daily, even as introverts who deeply value our alone time. On the tech front, I vent about my recent frustrations with ChatGPT and how changes in AI tools have impacted my workflow, especially when it comes to summarizing coaching calls and podcast transcripts. We discuss the highs and lows of relying on technology, and I share how I’m exploring new platforms and adapting my routines. We also touch on my latest creative pursuits such as soul songs, live streaming, and the ever-present pull of new hyper-fixations. Stephanie and I get real about what it means to follow your passions, even when they shift, and how every deep dive adds something valuable to our journey. Finally, we wrap up with some everyday life updates: dentist appointments, smoothie cravings, and the ongoing adventure of building a business and a life together. Whether you’re here for the marriage insights, the tech talk, or just a good story, I hope you find something in this episode that resonates with your own journey. Thanks for listening, and as always, we’ll see you next time… maybe from Tennessee, maybe not on the Fourth of July, but definitely with more stories to share!

This episode is an unscripted glimpse into what life looks for the Ravenscrafts on Friday, June 20, 2025

In this episode, Stephanie and I take you with us on our Friday morning walk as we talk about what’s changing, what’s closing, and what’s quietly coming alive in this next season. We recorded this episode in the middle of the shift, before the clarity was complete. And that’s what makes it sacred. Because we didn’t wait to figure it all out before sharing. We simply brought the mic into the field of transition. Who This Episode Is For This episode serves most powerfully those who are: Standing at a threshold they can’t name yet Feeling a desire to slow down without falling behind Holding an old structure that no longer feels like home Wondering if they’re “allowed” to change everything when nothing’s wrong If that’s you, this episode isn’t just a conversation. It’s a permission slip. What This Episode Offers This is a real-time embodiment of what it looks like to: Make a soul-aligned decision (like closing the mastermind) without drama, scarcity, or needing external validation Feel the resistance around pricing, calendar shifts, identity expansion… and still move forward Name health updates and hormone shifts not as tangents, but as foundational to aligned leadership Hold space for a co-creation with your partner that is not scripted, not performative, and not optimized for downloads—but optimized for truth The message beneath the words is simple, but powerful: You’re allowed to stop doing what you’ve outgrown, even if it once worked. You’re allowed to price your services at the level of your frequency. You’re allowed to share your process, mid-stream. If you're in a season of subtle but significant reorientation, I hope this episode meets you exactly where you are.  

In this episode, Stephanie and I head out for another walk and share a little of everything that’s been unfolding lately in both life and business. Stephanie gives an update on her hormone replacement journey in preparation for her follow-up appointment, sharing how empowered she feels to finally have providers who listen to the full story of her health rather than dismiss her experiences. We also talk about a movie we are planning to watch together, Mary Magdalene, and reflect on how far our spiritual lenses have shifted from where we started. These are the kinds of conversations we wouldn’t have dared to entertain years ago, but now approach with full openness and curiosity. As always, some of our everyday life comes into the mix as well: McKenna’s LSAT, my sister’s recent visit that stirred up old family memories, and even the arrival of a new washer and dryer that’s simplified our daily flow. There’s a light moment where we share about replacing a missing Twilight book for Stephanie and our thoughts on a new walking location we recently explored together. On the business side, I share updates from recent coaching conversations, how new clients are entering my world, and how I continue to trust the natural timing of client creation rather than forcing outcomes. Like so many of our episodes, this one reflects what Building A Life And Business Together really looks like for us… holding space for the ordinary, staying open to the unfolding, and sharing what’s alive as we walk.  

In this episode, Stephanie and I take another unscripted walk. What may sound like simple conversation carries layers of deeper resonance for those attuned to the field we’re creating together: Modeling Presence in Partnership Stephanie and I demonstrate what it looks like to live, create, and walk together in real time, even when life feels ordinary or rhythmically disrupted. This is what many most desire: permission to integrate marriage, business, and daily life as one field. Creative Transparency I opened the door to my evolving creative expansion: onboarding clients, releasing new music, and experimenting with emerging technologies like Suno. You receive an inside look at what it means to keep creating without waiting for perfect conditions. Shared Identity Exploration Our differences in musical tastes, preferences, and passions model healthy individuality within marriage. We hold space for one another's uniqueness while remaining deeply connected. This is spiritual partnership in motion. Normalizing Disrupted Rhythms Stephanie’s "off day," sleep disruptions, and the small moments of recalibration mirror real life. This brings enormous permission to those who often feel guilt for not being perfectly productive. Witnessing Unfolding Expansion My Soul Songs project and music publishing efforts point to how creative callings emerge unexpectedly, even after years in one industry. This signals that you, too, are always free to step into new forms of expression.  

In this episode, Stephanie and I invite you to walk with us, literally and energetically, as we reflect on what’s been unfolding in our lives, both personally and professionally. We begin in full presence: no script, no polish. Just two people in motion, sharing space, laughter, and the occasional squirrel sighting. Stephanie shares about the recent yard sale she hosted. What may sound like a casual event, but was actually a deeper process of clearing energetic space. As she puts it, “I’m making room for what’s next.” She also talks about the launch of her new podcast, Behind the Life We Built, and how it’s less about production and more about creating a space where entrepreneurial wives can feel seen and supported. I reflect on my solo trip to Hamvention, reconnecting with people from my amateur radio journey… including one past podcast guest and coaching client who, unexpectedly, pulled me aside and said, “I’m ready now.” It was a full-circle moment, a reminder that the seeds we plant often grow quietly… until one day, they call us back in. We talk about Stephanie’s deeply affirming visit to a new integrative wellness clinic where, for the first time, her full story was honored. No gaslighting. No reductionism. Just someone finally asking the right questions. It was healing on every level: physical, emotional, and spiritual. We also go off on some fun tangents about the history of the word “hysterectomy,” the ethics of AI in creative work, the future of disclosure in content creation, and the quiet joy of letting go of an old podcast project to make space for something new. This episode carries the frequency of release without resistance, and of presence without performance. It’s unscripted, imperfect, and deeply alive. Which feels exactly right for where we are.