Fuller Expectations

Today, we’re breaking down what collagen actually is, why most of us are deficient, and how simple food choices can dramatically improve our health.  I'm talking about from the inside out.  Most people think of collagen as 'the external visable things' like hair, skin, and nails.  What I'm going to share with you today is what collagen does from the INSIDE out.  Think about your joints, tendons, ligaments, and your muscles - the things that are inside of every one of us that we don't even notice when they are working fine, but BOY do we notice them when they aren't!  I learned so much collagen recently, and yes - it improves our skin, hair, and nails - but also our joints, metabolism, gut health, and even longevity. We’ll also talking about the flipside — the foods that quietly accelerate aging and inflammation without us ever realizing it.Whether you’re trying to lose weight, get your energy back, reduce inflammation, feel better in your skin, or simply live a longer, more vibrant life… this episode is for you!And if you aren't taking collagen yet and today's episode inspired you to look into collagen for your own health, I'll share a couple that I've vetted, use regularly and highly recommend.

In this deeply reflective and empowering episode of Fuller Expectations, we explore one of the most important — and most misunderstood — parts of growth: letting go.Letting go isn’t failure. It isn’t quitting. And it isn’t a sign that you’ve “changed too much.” It’s actually the clearest sign that you are evolving.Picking up from the powerful and popular “Anti-Bucket List” episode, this conversation goes even deeper into the things we release in order to make room for the life we’re building — the people, patterns, commitments, identities, and old versions of ourselves that we’ve simply outgrown.Together, we’ll explore:✨ How to recognize when something no longer fits✨ Why letting go gracefully is an act of self-respect, not selfishness✨ The emotional courage required to release familiar patterns✨ What it means to outgrow an old identity — and how to honor who you were✨ How making space invites clarity, peace, and new opportunities✨ Practical frameworks for deciding what stays and what goesIf you're in a season of transition — or you feel the quiet pull to grow in a new direction — this episode is a compassionate reminder that you’re not alone… and that letting go is often the first step toward living a fuller, more aligned second half of life.

Today’s episode is one I believe so many women and men need to hear. We’re sitting down with a woman who made one of the bravest decisions a person can make — to stop living the same painful story and write a new one for herself and her family. And in doing so, she became an influencer on TikTok with over 29,000 followers, many of whom have changed THEIR lives because of her inspiring story. Melissa is a mom of two young children, a wife, a daughter, a friend to so many... and a woman who felt like she wanted more for her life. She wanted to be present. She wanted to feel proud of the person is and could become. After years of ending each day the same way — pouring a glass of wine (or two or three) she realized she wasn’t just tired… she was disappointed in who she was becoming. And she wasn’t willing to lose herself, or these precious years with her family, to a pattern she knew she could break.So she got honest. She got brave. And she got sober.And now, just over 100 days into her journey, she’s sharing her story openly with us. In this episode, we’re talking about the moment she decided enough was enough, what early sobriety really feels like, the identity shift that comes with stepping away from alcohol, and how choosing yourself can change everything — for you, your marriage, and your kids.This is an episode about presence. About courage. About rewriting your story at any age, for any reason, simply because you deserve a life you’re awake for.So if you’ve ever questioned your own relationship with alcohol…or felt like you were living on autopilot…or dreamed of feeling more alive, more grounded, more you… this conversation might just be the nudge your heart has been waiting for!You can find Melissa on TikTok: @melissarosewest

Most of us have been taught to shrink ourselves — eat less, do more cardio, keep chasing a smaller size.But what if the real secret to energy, vitality, and aging well has nothing to do with shrinking… but has everything to do with strength?This week on Fuller Expectations, we’re diving into Dr. Gabrielle Lyon’s groundbreaking book Forever Strong and the idea of “muscle-centric medicine.”💪 Why muscle is the true organ of longevity🍳 Why protein is the foundation of a healthy metabolism🧠 How muscle supports your hormones, brain, and mood⚡ Simple ways to get stronger at ANY age✨ And why building muscle is the greatest gift you can give your future selfIf you want more energy, better health, and a stronger body for the second half of life… this episode is for YOU.

In this episode of Fuller Expectations, we welcome Brenda, a woman who has truly mastered the art of starting her day with gratitude and intention, and she'll share how that impacts her entire day! Together, we explore how the way you begin your morning sets the tone for your entire day—and how a well-crafted routine can become one of the most powerful tools for reducing stress and anxiety.Brenda shares her personal approach to “rising well,” offering practical tips and mindset shifts that help her step into each day with a sense of clarity and calm. We'll also dive into an important distinction: the difference between self-care and self-indulgence. Understanding this balance can transform the way you show up for yourself and those around you.Whether you’re looking to reset your mornings, lower daily stress, or rethink what self-care really means, this conversation will inspire you to create intentional practices that support a more peaceful and purposeful life.Brenda’s self-care routine includes these product lines if you’d like to explore them:Skin care: https://mysite.mynuskin.com/content/nuskin/en_US/mysite/mysite-home.mysite.blushnbling.html?storeId=US03473789#homeSupplements:https://threeinternational.com/en/ShopProducts/1445620

Ashley Sapphire, CEO of Healing of the Devine Rose, is an International Author, Reiki Master, Certified Master Life and Spiritual Coach, and Quantum Living Advocate for Solex. With clients around the world keeping her very busy, we are honored to have her spend time with you all in this heart-felt episode of Fuller Expectations!Ashley's story is one of resilience, healing, and incredible transformation. Through the tragic loss of her daughter, Chloe, in 2019, the direction of her life's work shifted towards a role in leading people through their darkest moments, teaching them how to find peace and purpose amidst the chaos of life. Ashley's teaching prompts her client to access their inner source of wisdom, resilience and growth, thus aligning them with their highest potential through entelechy, the channel through which these manifest.  And she is sharing some of that with our listeners today! Get ready to hear about how the power of energy healing and spiritual growth can help YOU live in peace amidst chaos, and how it can truly transform your life.

In this episode of Fuller Expectations, Carrie shares her top 10 takeaways from Mel Robbins’ Let Them Theory — and how this simple, powerful mindset shift can completely change the way we handle stress, expectations, and how we respond to other people’s behavior.We all have a personal “stress meter,” and it’s constantly being tested — by family, work, relationships, and even our own inner critic. But what if you stopped trying to control everything and everyone around you… and simply let them?Carrie unpacks how adopting this mindset can free up emotional space, lower your daily stress levels, and bring more peace and joy into your life. From learning to pause before reacting, to setting healthy boundaries, to recognizing what truly deserves your energy — these insights will help you recalibrate your own stress meter and take back your calm.This is a must-listen for anyone ready to stop overreacting, start releasing, and live a little lighter — because peace of mind isn’t about controlling others, it’s about mastering your response.If you'd like to read the full book, which is highly recommended (because it's fabulous!) you can try the audio book with a FREE 30-day trial of Audible! How?? Simply log on to audibletrial.com/carrie and get your free 30-days. This is great for us busy people who don't have as much time to read but can listen on our commute, while working out, or even grocery shopping! Relax and enjoy!

Welcome to Fuller Expectations, where we talk about living your best life in the back half!Today’s guest has an incredible story of courage and reinvention. After building a career at a Fortune 100 company that offered her leadership development opportunities, had great benefits, and even funded her master’s degree, she realized corporate life wasn’t bringing her joy. So, she took a leap and built a life centered around her true passion: cycling and family.Eight years later, she’s a USA Cycling certified coach, the creator of RascalRides.com, the voice behind The Femme Cyclist podcast, and an advocate for women and families in cycling. Oh, and she’s turned it into a thriving 6-figure business!We’re diving into her journey of leaving security for passion, the role family has played in her work and learning about what it means to live a fuller life when you follow joy. You’re going to love today's episode, and if you thought of someone who might benefit by the message today, please share this episode with them.

Welcome to Fuller Expectations. Today, we’re talkingabout something that can transform our health and happiness in powerful ways: community and positivity.My guest, Susan, is an amazing woman who has made it hermission to gather women together for wellness excursions, shared experiences, and uplifting conversations. She believes that when we come together with intention, we not only take better care of ourselves, but we inspire oneanother to live fuller, healthier lives.In this episode, Susan shares her journey, the impact of connection, and practical ways you can bring more positivity and community into your own life. This is a conversation about lifting each other up, staying well together, and finding strength in shared joy!You can find Susan's group, Girlfriend Gatherings, on Facebook and connect with her there!

In this episode, we explore the power of living with intention and the lasting impact of going the extra mile. From putting away distractions and truly listening to the person across from you, to showing up with presence and purpose, small actions can create big changes in our relationships and in ourselves. We’ll also talk about what it means to believe in yourself enough to finish what you start—and how that commitment builds confidence, trust, and meaningful connections. This conversation is a reminder that slowing down, paying attention, and choosing intention can transform the way we live and the way others experience us.

In this episode of Fuller Expectations, we explore one of life’s trickiest dynamics: knowing when we’re truly supporting the people we care about, and when we’ve crossed into enabling behaviors that keep them stuck. From parenting adult children to navigating friendships and even workplace relationships, the difference isn’t always clear.If you’ve ever wondered whether your “help” is actually helping—or holding someone back—this conversation will give you the clarity and courage to show up in healthier, more meaningful ways.

In this heartfelt episode of Fuller Expectations, we sit down with Christina, an educated professional (and VERY successful) woman whose world was turned upside down after experiencing three major losses — the death of her brother, the end of her marriage, and being let go from a job she dedicated over 20 years to.Christina opens up about the raw and often painful journey through grief, identity shifts, and the quiet strength required to start over. But this isn’t just a story about loss — it’s about rediscovering joy, rebuilding self-worth, and embracing life again, piece by piece. And the lesson that sometimes loss is what provides the best opportunities! Whether you're in the midst of your own healing journey or supporting someone who is, Christina’s story offers hope, perspective, and a powerful reminder that joy is still possible.

Welcome back to Fuller Expectations! Today’s conversation is all about courage, passion, and following that little voice that says, ‘What if?’My guest, Annie, spent years in the corporate world making fabulous money and had great benefits. But the truth of the matter was that her heart was somewhere else. Her passion was baking - something she did on the side from home and was really good at! It offered her true joy. One day, Annie decided to take a leap of faith, trading in her steady career to open her very own bakery. In this episode, ‘Whisking Up Courage: How Annie Took the Leap!’ Annie shares her journey, the lessons she learned about risk and resilience, and why a pinch of courage really can make life a whole lot sweeter. Annie just may offer you a glimpse of your own strength and how taking a chance on yourself just might be the best thing that ever happened to you!

Tired of chasing things that don’t matter? You’re not alone.In this empowering conversation, I'll sharing what I'm choosing to let go of in the second half of life — and encouraging you to think about the things that add stress, suck your time, weight you down, and don't serve you well at all! It’s not just about doing more. It’s about releasing what’s no longer yours to carry. There’s so much power in saying: I don’t want that anymore, I don't need that anymore, and I won't do that anymore! Not because you gave up. But because you finally let go.Life in the second half isn’t just about chasing more. It’sabout choosing better. So make your list — not of what you want to do, but of what you’re done doing. Then watch what opens up when you make space for what truly matters.

Meet Wade, a 27-year-old pilot with one of the most extraordinary jobs you’ll ever hear about. His “precious cargo”? Organs that bring the gift of life from donor to recipient. 🌎❤️This heart-warming episode of Fuller Expectations takes you behind the scenes of organ transport, the incredible teamwork it requires, and the life-saving impact made possible by generous donors.A special thank you to every organ donor and their families—you make second chances possible. 💐

In this episode of Fuller Expectations, I sit down with my 11-year-old nephew, Preston, whose fresh perspective on life is as inspiring as it is wise. Preston shares why, in his view, life is like an uphill climb followed by a downhill—reminding us that challenges never last forever and persistence always pays off. His words are simple yet powerful, offering a timeless lesson about not giving up on goals even when the road gets tough. Sometimes, the most profound insights come from the youngest voices! Join us for a conversation that proves we can all learn something about resilience, hope, and perseverance from a child’s point of view.Check Preston out on his YouTube channel - @gametimesports14 - he’d love for you to subscribe!

In this heartfelt episode of Fuller Expectations, I’m joined by a dear friend of over 35 years for an open and honest conversation about the lessons we’ve learned — and the wisdom we've earned!Together, we reflect on the pivotal moments, hard-earned truths, and unexpected blessings that only time and experience can reveal. From navigating relationships and identity to building confidence and embracing change, this episode is a love letter to our younger selves — and maybe yours, too.🎙️ In this episode:What we wish we knew about self-worth, boundaries, and resilienceHow perspective shifts in midlife — and what we no longer stress aboutThe advice we’d give our 20-something selves (with compassion and a few laughs)Why it’s never too late to rewrite your narrative and live with intentionWhether you’re looking back, starting fresh, or somewhere in the middle — this conversation will remind you just how far you’ve come, AND to give yourself some grace once in a while!

Confused by the supplement aisle? You’re not alone.In this episode of Fuller Expectations, we cut through the wellness clutter with Adrianne Carbonell-Ruiz — a certified personal trainer, passionate health advocate, and powerhouse in the world of wellness with over 20 years of experience.Adrianne shares how to make informed choices in the madness of the noisy supplement industry, what her thoughts are on what to look for in products, and her perspective about proactive wellness. It's not about chasing trends — it’s about listening to your body.If you're ready to simplify your health routine and focus on what really works, this conversation is a breath of fresh (and honest) air!

What happens when your passion isn’t just a pastime — but the key to your next chapter?In this inspiring episode of Fuller Expectations, we sit down with a guest who left a 32-year career behind to pursue his love of photography — and in doing so, not only found purpose, but tripled his income!We talk about the courage it takes to pivot later in life, the mindset shift from hobbyist to professional, and how following your creative spark can lead to unexpected success.Whether you're craving change or curious about what’s possible in the second half of life, this conversation is a reminder: It’s never too late to bet on yourself!

I am SO excited for our conversation today!  This is for Anyone who’s been thrown a curveball — whether it was a job change, a career shake-up, or a life transition you didn’t see coming. Because here’s the truth: starting over isn’t a failure. It’s a superpower!And no one knows that better than my guest today — Ed Doherty. Ed is the founder of Ambrose Landen Consulting, where he helps organizations thrive through strategic planning, leadership development, and employee engagement. But before launching his own firm, Ed held executive-level roles across the country — from serving as Chief Human Resources Officer for an 11,000-employee company in Memphis, to leading a $22 million restaurant group in Ohio, to overseeing operations as a Regional VP in major cities like San Francisco and LA.Through every chapter, Ed has focused on people — mentoring, developing leaders, and creating the kind of culture where growth is possible.But even with all that success, Ed’s career — like many of ours — took an unexpected turn. And instead of resisting the change, he pivoted. He created something new. And in the process, discovered that the end of one chapter was actually the beginning of something even more fulfilling.We’re talking about how to navigate loss, redefine youridentity, and why starting over isn’t a sign of failure — it’s a sign of courage, creativity, and reinvention.If you’ve ever had to let go of a title, a plan, or aversion of your life that no longer fits, this conversation is for you!So if you’re facing a change — whether it was your choice or not — today’s conversation is a reminder that you're not starting from scratch...you're starting from experience.