Diaries of a Boss Babe

There are rock-bottom stories… and then there’s Michelle Campbell’s. In this episode, I sit down with the woman behind Bluebird: A Memoir of Trauma, Heartbreak, and Divine Beauty in the Struggle. She's a tax expert, financial literacy advocate, and founder of the nonprofit #Stability. From the moment Michelle shares that she grew up being told she was “too Black to be white and acted too ‘white’ to be Black,” you feel the weight of a lifetime of not belonging. That ache for acceptance led her into a 21-year spiral of fast money, big spending, and toxic relationships with both men and women which ended in jail, deep shame, and financial chaos. Michelle walks us through the staggering math of her rock bottom: five evictions, four repossessed cars, three bankruptcies, two abortions, a sexual assault, and over $500,000 in debt. But this isn’t a trauma dump; it’s a masterclass in radical honesty. She doesn’t sanitize any of it...housing instability, survival choices, the ways shame around money and identity can swallow you whole and somehow you leave feeling lighter. The turning point? A deep spiritual fast where she finally stopped running from herself and from God. Out of that quiet came the clarity to face her numbers, tell the truth about her past, and rebuild her life with integrity....eventually becoming an IRS-enrolled agent and using her expertise to help others move from financial chaos to stability and dignity. This conversation was not at all what I expected, and I am honestly in awe of this woman. We went to places most people never say out loud especially not on a podcast. Let's just say we share the same motto of saying the quiet part out loud. In this episode, we get into: What it feels like to grow up “too Black, too white, never enough” and how that fractures your sense of self How chasing acceptance through spending, sex, and codependency landed Michelle in jail and in terrifying levels of debt The reality of five evictions, four repossessions, and three bankruptcies and what those moments actually look like in real life, not just on paper The connection between financial trauma, mental health, and feeling unworthy of stability or love The spiritual fast that became her “enough is enough” moment and how it shifted her relationship with God, money, and herself How she went from nearly suicidal and half a million dollars in debt to tax professional, author, and nonprofit founder teaching others how to reclaim their financial power Why “financial literacy” isn’t just budgets and spreadsheets...it’s healing shame, rewriting identity, and telling the truth about where your money is really going Tune in and witness real vulnerability in action.

Heather Esposito sits me down and gives me the full Human Design rundown and what starts as a conversation quickly turns into an unfiltered excavation of who I am beneath the armor, the leadership, the motherhood, and the “I’ve got it together” energy I’ve carried for years. Together, we peel back the layers I didn’t even realize I was still hiding behind. For the first time, I hear the truth of my own design; as a Projector, a Line 2, a deeply sensitive, intuitive soul who sees the world in a way that isn’t always easy to explain. Heather shows me the parts of myself I’ve resisted, the strengths I’ve minimized, and the patterns I’ve been unknowingly carrying into my relationships, my work, and even my self-perception. This is not a fluffy conversation. This is a mirror. We explore: Why Projectors often feel misunderstood and why being seen is both our deepest desire and our biggest fear. But like, see me but don't acknowledge seeing me.  The messy truth about compliments, visibility, and owning our unique gifts. Line 2 energy ... the hermit, the natural, the person who shines without trying… yet struggles to trust it. The emotional waves, inner authority, and decision-making processes that shape everything from relationships to leadership. The moments in life that act as awakenings… and the sacred role of the disruptor and the person born to challenge norms and invite others into their truest expression. The societal shift toward emotional awareness and why it’s hitting so many of us at once. What happens when you finally stop performing and start living as the person you were designed to be. Heather gently (and sometimes not so gently) unravels old conditioning and shines a light on the parts of me I’ve been blissfully ignorant to, ignored, avoided, or explained away. This episode is vulnerable, uncomfortable, clarifying, and liberating all at once. If you’ve ever felt “too much,” “not enough,” misunderstood, overly sensitive, overwhelmed by expectation, or unsure how to show up fully in your own life… the revelations in this conversation will hit home. This is self-discovery in real time. This is personal growth with the lights on. This is what happens when you stop pretending and start listening to your soul’s actual blueprint.   Get your Human Design here Learn more about ClearWater Health DPC I talk about in the intro here Connect with Me! Podcast: @diariesofabossbabepodcast Coaching: @cultivate_with_KG My School: @independenceacademync

This week’s episode took me into a conversation I didn’t even know I needed. I sit down with the incredible Kylie Lambert, she's a counselor, a deeply grounded woman, and someone who has chosen to live boldly and intentionally child-free. And while I personally don’t share the same perspective on choosing a child-free life, this conversation invited me into a level of curiosity, compassion, and connection that felt profound. This conversation allowed me to truly see her, her humanity, her heart, and the emotional landscape behind her and her husband’s decision. It was one of the most thoughtful, expansive exchanges I’ve had on the show. We explore grief in ways most people shy away from, the kind of grief that changes how you move through the world and how you show up in your closest relationships. We talk about how grief can shift power dynamics, soften edges, and force you to rely on communication and trust in ways you never have before. Together, we dive into what it looks like to surrender and have you husband lead within a relationship, to navigate big decisions as a team, and to let yourself be vulnerable when everything in you wants to shut down. Kylie shares with so much honesty about the emotional duality of choosing a child-free lifestyle...the freedom, the grief, the questions, the pressure, and the deep intentionality behind every part of it. What struck me most was not her choice itself, but the clarity, the integrity, and the communication that got her and her husband there. Listening to her made me appreciate just how diverse, layered, and deeply personal our paths toward purpose can be. We talk about societal expectations, identity, criticism, biological reactions, and what it looks like to build a community of women who support one another even when their lives look completely different. And throughout the entire conversation, I found myself leaning in to truly understand. If you’ve ever navigated grief, wrestled with major relationship decisions, questioned your identity, or wanted to better understand the stories behind choices that differ from your own, this episode will broaden your heart in the best way. It’s grounded, intimate, open, and so deeply human. If you're curiosity begs to be quenched on our declining birth rates: Click here to listen to the Modern Wisdom Podcast   Connect with Me! Podcast: @diariesofabossbabepodcast Coaching: @cultivate_with_KG

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, I sit down with Courtney Boylan, the founder of Le Lolo, to talk about the powerful intersection of motherhood and entrepreneurship. Courtney shares how her own postpartum experience, feeling unseen and disconnected, led her to create Le Lolo, a brand redefining what it means to recover beautifully. What started as a personal need evolved into a mission to empower women through functional, stunning, and confidence-boosting postpartum essentials. We talk about the courage it takes to transition from a steady career in retail leadership to building your own business from the ground up, and the importance of community, credibility, and heart-led leadership along the way. Of course, in true Diaries of a Boss Babe fashion, we go on a few tangents...chatting about co-parenting in a split household, raising kids in the age of social media, and what it means to stay grounded as a mom and a leader. If you’re sitting on a dream or an idea and wondering where to start, this conversation will remind you that the hardest seasons often plant the seeds for our greatest work. 💬 In This Episode, We Chat About: How Courtney turned her postpartum pain into purpose by creating Le Lolo The moment she realized motherhood products could be both beautiful and functional What it really takes to build credibility and community as a new founder The balancing act of motherhood, co-parenting, and entrepreneurship The importance of authenticity, connection, and storytelling in growing a brand Why your personal experience can be the spark for your next big idea If you’ve been holding onto an idea or waiting for “the right time,” let this be your nudge to start. You don’t have to have it all figured out—you just have to begin.   Connect with me!  Podcast @diariesofabossbabepodcast Coaching @Cultivate_with_KG

What happens when you realize the business you built… no longer feels like you? In this raw and powerful conversation, I sit down with Katie Novak, the founder of Collab with Katie, who’s doing something bold... she’s burning her business down to rebuild it into something more fulfilling, intentional, and aligned with who she is today. We talk about what it looks like to walk away from the “shoulds,” redefine success, and build from a place of purpose over pressure. Katie opens up about her own journey of transformation: the therapy breakthroughs, the mindset shifts, and the courage it takes to say, “this isn’t working anymore.” We dive into: 💥 The “controlled burn”  why sometimes destruction is the most creative act. 🧠 How therapy and mentorship became catalysts for real growth. 💬 The myth of balance (and what harmony actually looks like). 👭 The magic of female founder community and why connection trumps competition. 💫 How to rebuild your business around fulfillment, not just finances. This episode is your reminder that sometimes, you have to let it all burn so you can rise again, stronger, clearer, and more you than ever.

Ever feel like your hormones have their own group chat and you’re not invited? Same. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Jennifer Reid of Sandhills Functional Medicine to unpack all things hormonal health from perimenopause mood swings to why your gut might be the real boss of your body. We dive into the rise of hormonal issues in younger women, the sneaky role of environmental toxins, and why genetic testing might be the ultimate self-care move. We’re talking estrogen, testosterone, sleep, gut health, and even those trendy GLP-1 meds (with a few hot takes). This conversation is science meets sass and equal parts education and empowerment. And because we couldn’t stop there… we also go off on a tangent (the good kind) about what’s really happening to our kids’ brains in the age of constant screens and online access. From the desensitizing effects of porn to the loss of real human connection, we get honest about how this digital overload is rewiring childhood and why getting kids back into nature, learning to look people in the eye, confidence, and conversation skills might just be the most powerful form of preventative health there is. 💡 Takeaways: Hormones impact everything, from sleep to sex to sanity. Gut health is the unsung hero of hormonal balance. Environmental toxins are messing with more than just your mood. Functional medicine looks at the whole you, not just your lab results. Genetic testing can personalize your wellness journey. Intermittent fasting isn’t a one-size-fits-all fix (especially for women 40+). Hormone replacement therapy can be beneficial and not nearly as scary as it sounds.  Healing is a journey, not a quick fix, but you’re absolutely worth it. Our kids need less screen time and more sunshine because their physical and emotional well-being starts in childhood.

In this week’s episode of Diaries of a Boss Babe, I sit down with Jamie Mann a multidimensional being whose presence feels like divine wisdom wrapped in human form. She's a fierce woman, lover, momma, step-momma, yogi, DANCE*FIT instructor and she's back behind the chair to save all our hair at The Hive in Abderdeen. This conversation is an invitation to slow down, feel deeply, and remember who you were before the world told you who to be. Together, we wander through the tender landscapes of emotional recovery, motherhood, and self-forgiveness...the moments that shape us and the ones that break us open. Jamie shares her journey through the dualities of life: the beauty and the ache, the becoming and the unbecoming, the sacred and the messy middle. We talk about old patterns that continue to show up until the voice gets so loud it's no longer whispering to you, the power of words, the quiet impact of love in its simplest forms, and how vulnerability, though often uncomfortable, becomes the bridge to our deepest connections. From the raw truths of parenting to the lessons hidden in heartbreak, this conversation will leave you breathing a little deeper and remembering that healing is never a straight line, it’s a spiral back home to yourself. If you’ve ever felt lost in the tension between who you were and who you’re becoming, this episode will remind you that you’re not alone and that your story still matters. ✨ May this conversation be the permission slip you didn’t know you needed to forgive, to soften, and to begin again.

You know those moments when life throws you a curveball and all you can say is… “Ah, so this is what this feels like”? Yeah, we’re talking about life lifin’ in this episode. In this raw and radiant conversation, I sit down with Heather Esposito; a health coach, trauma-informed healer, and bakery founder with a heart (and story) as rich as her sweet treats. Together, we dive into what it really means to grow through the messy middle, reclaim your sense of personal authority, and live in alignment with your design not your conditioning. From the wild ride of career pivots and healing journeys to learning how to listen to your body’s wisdom (and not the world’s noise), this episode is a beautiful blend of soul talk and real talk. Expect laughter, goosebumps, and a few truth bombs about relationships, emotional intelligence, and that sneaky shift from “Who am I?” to “Ohhh… there I am.” If you’re craving a conversation that’s equal parts deep, funny, and freeing, this one’s for you. ✨ In this episode we explore: What “life lifin’” really means (and how to meet it with grace and humor) How Human Design and the Enneagram can deepen self-understanding The dance between personal growth, trauma release, and emotional intelligence Why your feelings might just be your best GPS The evolution of relationships and self-trust as we age It’s heartfelt. It’s honest. It’s a little cheeky. And it’s your reminder that healing isn’t about getting it perfect, it’s about showing up for what is. 🎧 Grab your coffee, your journal, or your walk shoes and tune in.

In this deeply moving and beautifully real conversation, Alison Isenhart - mom, realtor, milspouse, opens up about motherhood, military life, and the layers of strength it takes to keep showing up through it all. From the heartbreak of losing a baby to the challenges of deployments and raising boys into good men, Alison’s story is one of courage, grace, and heart. We also dive into her daughter’s incredible journey as a dancer — from her early start to graduating high school at just 16 — and what it’s really like to support a child chasing big dreams while managing the everyday realities of family life. Along the way, we talk about: Finding purpose after grief  Navigating the mental and emotional toll of military life  Parenting in the digital age and teaching resilience The art of letting go — and watching your kids soar This episode is raw, inspiring, and full of moments that will tug at your heartstrings. Whether you’re a parent, a military spouse, or simply someone navigating life’s highs and lows, Alison’s story will remind you that love, faith, and connection can carry us through anything.

We’re kicking off this season of Diaries of a Boss Babe with an unfiltered Q&A on love, sex, and everything in between. Relationship & Sexuality Expert Courtney Boyer joins me for “Ask Courtney Anything,” where we dive into listener-submitted questions that are as real as they are raw. From porn, dating apps, and building confidence… to fantasies you may not admit out loud (👀 hello cuckolding curiosity), this episode is equal parts raw, hilarious, and deeply relatable. But this isn’t just about shock value. We peel back the layers on: Why vulnerability is the sexiest currency in a relationship Companionship vs. true partnership (yes, there’s a difference) What it really takes to rebuild trust after betrayal The impact of emotional abuse and why self-worth is the foundation of love How porn can shake (or shape) trust in relationships Why community is essential—especially for men and military families Exploring fantasies & boundaries without breaking connection Courtney brings wisdom, wit, and straight-talk that makes the hard stuff feel a little lighter and a lot more doable. Whether you’re single, dating, or knee-deep in marriage, this conversation will leave you feeling seen, understood, and a little more open to the wild ride of love, sex, and everything in between. 💌 If you’ve ever wished you could ask a relationship expert your real questions (without blushing), this episode is your permission slip.

Leaving the military isn’t just a career change, it’s a full-life transition that touches every part of who you are, what you do, and how you see yourself. In this powerful conversation with Luke, we explore the layered journey of military retirement, from the meticulous planning it requires to the unexpected waves of grief, identity shifts, and emotional adjustments that follow. We talk about the paradox of wanting something deeply, dreaming about the freedom of civilian life, while also feeling sadness, disconnection, and even depression once you arrive there. We dive into how couples can navigate this change together, why community and friendships are so vital, and how routines, sleep, and exercise become anchors in a time of uncertainty. Whether you’re approaching military retirement, supporting a spouse through it, or simply curious about the human side of major life transitions, this episode is full of raw insight, hard-earned lessons, and hope for building a fulfilling next chapter. If you're looking for a great guide book to figure out what you want to be "when you grow up", here's the link to get the book, What Color is my Parachute. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why planning for military retirement should start years before leaving service The surprising emotional toll of identity loss and community shifts How to navigate the paradox of excitement and grief during transition The role of self-awareness in managing stress, irritability, and change Practical ways couples can plan and adapt together  How sleep, exercise, and routines help create a new sense of normal Why building (or rebuilding) community is essential for emotional health The importance of giving yourself—and others—time and grace in the process This is a conversation about change, courage, and the reality that two things can be true: you can be ready to move forward and still mourn what you’ve left behind.

What happens when you stop pretending, get radically honest, and finally take ownership of your story—mess and all? This week, I’m joined by the powerful and unfiltered April Martini, life coach, speaker, and creator of The Martini Method, for a deeply real and refreshing conversation you do not want to miss. April gets vulnerable about her journey from the structured world of the military and corporate America to the chaos (and clarity) that came through divorce, motherhood, and facing childhood trauma head-on. We talk about codependency, infidelity, and the dark corners of life we don’t always like to shine a light on—because healing isn't linear and growth isn't always pretty. From postpartum depression to the unexpected relief of divorce, navigating blended families, and finding herself as a single woman again, April shares how she turned painful life transitions into the foundation for her life’s work. With raw insight and zero shame, she introduces The Martini Method—her practical, honest approach to self-discovery, boundary-setting, and lasting change. This isn’t your typical “fix your life” chat. It’s a beautifully messy, truth-filled reminder that you are not broken, you’re becoming. 💥 In this episode, we dive into: Why healing is a practice, not a destination How childhood trauma shows up in adult relationships Codependency: what it really looks like (and how to break the cycle) The surprising freedom that can come after divorce Mental health in the military—what’s missing and what we need Motherhood, identity loss, and reclaiming your sense of self Why social media messes with our heads The power of boundaries and support systems And of course… the Martini Method for reclaiming your life ✨ Real. Raw. Refreshing. This episode is packed with truth bombs and tender moments that will have you nodding, reflecting, and maybe even finally letting yourself off the hook. Don’t just listen—experience this one.

What happens when you reunite with a high school friend after 20 years and hit record? You get a wild ride of deep thoughts, belly laughs, and "same, girl, SAME" moments you didn’t know you needed. Casey Belitz (formerly Casey Rector — yes, from La Costa Canyon, Class of 2005, Go Mavs!) joins me for a reunion episode that goes everywhere from childhood attachment styles to running businesses, parenting in a tech-fueled world, and the absolute chaos of trying to raise good humans while not losing ourselves in the process. Casey owns The Watering Haul and The Hug Button and is a Business Teacher at our alma mater, whoop whoop! This convo is equal parts heart, humor, healing, and “holy sh*t, I thought it was just me.” We talk about: How learning actually changes your brain The magic of secure attachment (and how it echoes into adulthood) Delegating in business so you’re not drowning in to-dos Why empathy isn’t just a soft skill, it’s the real power move Raising independent kids in a co-dependent digital age Slowing down, finding your flow, and redefining success The beauty (and struggle) of authenticity on social media And why we all need a little more humor, community, and compassion Whether you're a mom, a business owner, a teacher, a dreamer, or just a human trying to figure it all out, this episode will hit home. 🎧 Tune in for the reunion you didn’t know you needed and leave feeling seen, heard, and inspired to lead with heart and live on purpose.

What happens when you drop a group of bold, brave women into the heart of Paris with nothing but intention, vulnerability, and a suitcase full of curiosity? Pure. Magic. In this electrifying episode, we dive deep with Courtney Boyer, relationship and sexuality expert — fresh off a transformative women’s retreat in the City of Light. We’re talking pleasure, power, soul-level breakthroughs, and the kind of sisterhood that changes everything. This is not your average self-care chat. This is about women waking up... to their desires, their bodies, their truth. We unpack what it really means to set intentions and surrender, to peel back the layers we’ve hidden behind for years and step fully into who we are. No filters. No apologies. Just raw, beautiful growth. If you've ever felt the tug to go deeper into your pleasure, your potential, your power, this conversation will light something up inside you. From laugh-out-loud moments to goosebumps and tears, this episode is a full-body YES.

In this episode, I'm joined by the lovely and down-to-earth Julia Young. She's a mom of two (and one on the way!), military spouse, and the woman behind Fresh Start Sourdough. She accidentally turned her pandemic hobby into a full-blown business (oops... but in the best way). Julia keeps it real about the ups, downs, and beautifully messy in betweens of building a business from her kitchen while chasing toddlers and packing up for yet another military move. If you've ever wondered how to grow something meaningful without sacrificing your values (or your sanity), this conversation is for you. We talk about what it means to build a life on your own terms, the art of balancing sourdough starters with raising babies, and why finding community as a military wife is both essential and, let's be honest, kinda hard sometimes. From pandemic pregnancies to career pivots to the magic of teaching your kids through your work, Julia shares the heart behind her brand and the lessons she’s picked up along the way. Whether you’re a military spouse, a business-minded mama, or just someone craving a fresh start (pun absolutely intended), this one’s for you.

Join me in the space in between for a compilation of journal entries over the last six weeks. Just a heads up, it's emotional, filled with love, grief, realization and affirmation. Thank you for being here with me, sitting with me, sharing in what is in fact, life. 

What do you get when you mix strict tech rules, solid bedtimes, intentional parenting, and two people who still really like each other after 14 years? Team Awesome, baby. And yes—we named ourselves. On purpose. Grab your coffee and join us for a long morning therapy shesh, Luke and I sit to get real about our parenting journey. With two kids now 14 and 12, we reflect on the wins, the wobbles, and the wildly intentional decisions that have shaped our family life—from saying no to social media and yes to physical labor, to raising kids who are actually enjoyable to be around (most of the time). We break down how our parenting style evolved through early childhood chaos, unexpected trauma, and that wild decision to start a school. You’ll hear how our shared values around discipline, independence, and community helped us build a home where rules are clear, money isn’t a mystery, and kids learn to do hard things. Whether you're a fellow no-screens-until-you've-fed-the-chickens parent, or just looking for a fresh take on modern family life, this episode serves up honesty, strategy, and plenty of quirky Gerhardt charm. You’ll laugh, you’ll nod in solidarity, and you might start calling your family a team, too. Topics We Tackle: Parenting without social media (and surviving) Why bedtimes are sacred in the Gerhardt house Financial literacy for kids (hello, Bank of Dad) Balancing work ethic with childhood joy The dynamic of raising boys in today’s world Curating your child’s influences (and your own) Building a parenting legacy grounded in values, not trends Team Awesome Tip of the Week: Rules don’t ruin fun—they create the space for the right kind of fun. Listen in for laughs, lessons, and a refreshingly honest conversation between two partners in life and parenting crime. We don’t have it all figured out, but we’ve definitely got a plan. 🎧 Tune in now and get inspired to parent with more purpose (and maybe a little more cheek).

In this deeply soulful and inspiring episode, I sit down with Cori Myka, founder of Calm Within Adult Swim—a woman who embodies the perfect blend of life coach and swim coach. Cori brings an extraordinary depth of wisdom to what, on the surface, may seem like a simple act: learning to swim. But as you'll hear, it’s so much more than that. We dive into the emotional and mental journey of adult swim learners, exploring how fear, trauma, and our relationship with safety often come to the surface in the water. Cori’s approach is both gentle and transformative. She shares how swimming becomes a metaphor for life—one that calls us to slow down, tune in, and move forward with patience, practice, and profound self-trust. This conversation is about more than swimming. It’s about embracing the seasons of our lives—both literal and emotional. It’s about meeting ourselves in the water, letting go of judgment, and inviting in curiosity, playfulness, and peace. Whether you're terrified of water or navigating your own version of deep emotional waters, this episode will touch your heart and offer the kind of gentle insight we all need more of. What we talk about in this episode: Why learning to swim as an adult is 80% mental and 20% physical The importance of individual stories around fear and safety How seasonal shifts impact our energy, mindset, and motivation The difference between teaching children and adults—and why connection matters most The power of group classes and shared vulnerability Building trust in ourselves, one small step at a time Using curiosity and playfulness as tools for adult learning How the water mirrors our inner emotional world Mindfulness, patience, and the slow, beautiful journey of growth Why love, connection, and self-awareness are at the heart of any transformation Cori’s gentle yet powerful perspective reminds us that we are always capable of learning something new, and that the relationship we build with ourselves along the way is the true victory. Whether you’ve always wanted to learn to swim or you’re simply seeking more calm and confidence in your life, this episode is a warm invitation to begin—right where you are.

Get ready for one of the most soul-nourishing conversations we’ve had on Diaries of a Boss Babe! In this episode, I sit down with the ever-vibrant Karen Geiger — a speech-language pathologist, journal writing teacher, writing coach, mama to two grown boys, and a woman radiating authenticity and joy. Together, we dive deep into the transformative power of journaling, the complexities of midlife and menopause, and what it means to reclaim your story in a world that’s constantly trying to write it for you. With grace, humor, and wisdom, Karen shares how therapeutic writing can become a lighthouse during life's foggiest seasons — especially when navigating identity shifts, motherhood transitions, and the emotional waves of aging. ✨ This episode is a gentle nudge to pause, reflect, and write it all down. 💡 What We Talk About: Using journaling as a therapeutic practice during menopause and midlife How language shapes our self-image and personal narrative The role of family support in navigating big life transitions Gratitude journaling and its powerful effect on mindset and presence The impact of digital journaling and how it’s evolving What it means to surrender and trust the unfolding of your life Why authenticity and community are non-negotiables for personal growth How fear can be a doorway to self-discovery Tools and tips for starting (or restarting) your journaling practice 💭 Favorite Takeaways: Midlife is a season, not a crisis. Gratitude can exist in the same breath as grief and joy. Writing is more than reflection — it’s a mental workout. The stories we tell ourselves can either limit or liberate us. You are the protagonist of your own life — own it. This episode is a love letter to self-expression, to owning your evolution, and to honoring the messy, magical in-between moments. Whether you’re a lifelong journaler or just starting out, Karen’s insights will light a spark in you to pick up the pen and begin again. 📓 Grab your favorite notebook and let’s go. 🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts — and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share with someone who needs this!

Buckle up, beauties! In this episode, we’re diving deep with Christina Kirkey, founder and owner of Pin Up Studio in Raleigh, NC—where inclusivity, empowerment, and killer hair come together! From her early ambitions to building a salon that’s more than just a business (it’s a movement), Christina gets real about the highs, the heartbreaks, and the hustle behind her success. 🌟 What’s Inside This Glow-Up of an Episode? 💋 How Christina turned her passion for beauty into a thriving salon 💋 The emotional rollercoaster of entrepreneurship—miscarriages, losing key employees, and rebuilding with resilience 💋 Creating a safe and empowering space for women in the beauty industry 💋 The magic (and madness) of coaching younger stylists & leading with patience and accountability 💋 Social media vs. reality—navigating perceptions, expectations & industry pressures 💋 Balancing fun, creativity, and structure in a fast-paced, high-energy environment 💋 The unfiltered truth about motherhood, grief, and the power of community support 🎧 Whether you're an entrepreneur, a beauty industry pro, or someone who just loves raw, real, and inspiring convos—this episode is for you! Get ready for a mix of laughs, life lessons, and leadership gold. 🔑 Boss Babe Takeaways: ✨ Ambitions don’t always follow a straight line—but they do lead to greatness. ✨ Therapy isn’t just self-care; it’s a power move for growth. ✨ Resilience and adaptability are the real MVPs of entrepreneurship. ✨ Communication is the secret sauce for business, relationships, and leadership. ✨ Social media isn’t real life—authenticity wins. ✨ Boundaries aren’t selfish—they’re necessary for your sanity. ✨ Success isn’t about what society says—it’s about what feels right for YOU. 💫 Hit play, get inspired, and remember—your story is yours to write. 🎧🔥 👉 Follow & Subscribe to Diaries of a Boss Babe for more fearless, unfiltered conversations with powerhouse women!   To learn more about your host, Katelyn Gerhardt:  Cultivate with KG: Katelyn is a business coach, consultant and speaker specializing in help women build their empire as a fierce and loving woman! She helps you bridge the gap between where you are now and where you dream to be. With a focus on building the woman who makes her daydreams a reality, she helps you get crystal clear on what you want and helps you implement the plan to get there one step at a time. If you're looking to start or build a business, grow your team, expand, hire, or create an intentional company culture; let's do it. She's helped hundreds of women master their time so they can build the life they desire. She offers self paced courses, 1:1 coaching and workshops! Independence Academy: In 2015, Katelyn co-founded Independence Academy a private Montessori and Reggio inspired school serving children 2 yrs through elementary. Sitting on 13 acres, Independence Academy is a place where children are immersed in nature and are taking back their childhood. With a team of 30+ women, (and her smokin' hot and oh so wise husband), Katelyn's mission is to create a ripple affect that will impact the lives of the children that attend, their families, and her team to give them skills and a mindset that will forever serve them on their journey.  Diaries of a Boss Babe Podcast: The passion project! Cultivating community is the main mission of this podcast. To connect, to relate, to create magic one conversation at a time. Come follow along on Instagram where we keep the conversation going and need YOUR input!