Isn't It Lovely? Podcast

GIVEAWAY! Use code LOVELY20 for an exclusive 20% discount on Tara’s website! https://www.wandererongilchrist.com “You have to have time to feel like you belong. And you have to have purpose to feel like you belong.” As Isn’t it Lovely? prepares for a podcast hiatus after 3 incredible years, there could be no more perfect guest to usher in this change of season than the fairy god-friend who started it all by originally introducing Tracy and Rachel over a decade ago: kindred spirit, entrepreneur, ranch wife and mother, and everyone’s big sister, Tara Westerman. With grace, humor, and candor, Tara shares her own journey as a city girl who fell in love with a rancher and relocated to a literal little town on the prairie, successfully navigating her way through a wilderness season and emerging with an even stronger sense of self and purpose. Tara and Tracy explore the importance of knowing, understanding, and loving one’s core self in order to discover callings, sharpen intuition, and embark on a healthy pursuit of the things that bring joy and peace. Rachel and Tara consider the ways growth takes time and can be painful, but is always worth it in the end. Rachel ponders how to secure filming permits in Wyoming so Hallmark will film its next Christmas movie at Tara’s store, The Wanderer on Gilchrist; Tracy celebrates the fact that Tara’s husband Jeremy can handle both cattle and cellulite management with equal aplomb. Episode Mentions: Tara Westerman’s Instagram: @tara.westerman The Wanderer on Gilchrist’s Website: https://www.wandererongilchrist.com/ The Wanderer on Gilchrist’s Instagram: @wandererongilchrist The Wanderer on Gilchrist’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wanderinghermitwheatland Topher Kearby “I appreciate the struggle” poem Deuteronomy 2:7 What Are You Loving: Tara: The Origins of You: How Breaking Family Patterns Can Liberate the Way We Live and Love by Vienna Pharaon; Fascia Massage Tool Blaster Rachel: Humbl Roots Carinara Sauce; Annie’s Parlour Tracy: Charleston, South Carolina; Sullivan’s Island (Lowcountry Tales) by Dorthea Benton Frank Disclosure: We only recommend products we use, and all opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links that add no additional cost to you; we may earn a small commission.

“You are so capable of so much more than what you even realize.” After surviving tandem bouts of Influenza B, Tracy and Rachel have rallied and are thrilled to usher in a fresh dose of inspiration by welcoming both springtime and Sioux Falls-based entrepreneur (and local fan favorite!) Terra Koupal to the show! Terra shares her journey to becoming an accidental influencer after welcoming two sets of twins (and celebrating the nuanced joys and challenges of in vitro fertilization) and explores the ways that the power of connection through family, business, and friendships can be used to comfort, encourage, empathize, and help tap into a greater life purpose. Terra and Rachel consider the significance of timing, particularly when goals and dreams take longer and require more effort, while Tracy and Terra discuss the importance of balancing vulnerability with boundaries. Episode Mentions: Terra Koupal’s Instagram: @the.house.of.twins Terra Koupal’s Website Pigeon 605: “My 605: Terra Koupal” Lou Lou and Company Elegant Mommy Ignite Fitness Studio Jami Nato What Are You Loving: Terra: Headway App, Maybelline Super Stay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick, @thesmallshoppe.sd Rachel: You Could Make This Place Beautiful: A Memoir by Maggie Smith Tracy: Rent the Runway Disclosure: We only recommend products we use, and all opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links that add no additional cost to you; we may earn a small commission.

The content of this podcast episode is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your healthcare professional or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have. It’s a celebration of health and nourishment quite literally from farm-to-table as Rachel and Tracy welcome regenerative farmer Roy Thompson to the show to discuss the healing power of food! With candor and sensitivity, Roy shares the ways his personal struggles with chronic illness, exhaustion, and discouragement led him to explore functional medicine, alternative healthcare, and nutrition, ultimately achieving a healing so transformative that it inspired a reimagining of his own farming and ranching practices. Roy and Tracy examine ways to find balance between traditional and functional medicine, while Rachel and Roy consider practical tips for accessing fresh organic food in a way that won’t break the bank. As Roy explains the connection between our bodies and the land in his explanation of regenerative farming practices, Tracy fondly evokes The Lion King’s “Circle of Life” song to Rachel’s delight. Episode Mentions: Roy Thompson’s Website: https://tripletbrand.com/ Roy Thompson’s Instagram: @triple.t.brand Roy Thompson’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tttbrand1 Understanding Ag: “Where Human Health Begins: One Farmer’s Story of Regeneration” Tri-State Livestock News: “Destination Regeneration: Film Shares South Dakota Ranchers’ Story” Mayo Clinic The Institute for Functional Medicine Regenerative Agriculture Gabe Brown David Brandt Ray Archuleta Misfits Market The Lion King’s “Circle of Life” Josiah’s Coffeehouse, Cafe, and Bakery What Are You Loving: Roy: Jocko Willink, Origin Products, Jocko Fuel, Headway App Rachel: Shutterbean’s Coconut Maple Granola Tracy: Roy’s recommendations of Dr. Axe and Dirt to Soil: One Family’s Journey into Regenerative Agriculture by Gabe Brown

This episode is brought to you by Flyboy Donuts! Flyboy Donuts is a Sioux Falls-based family-owned donut shop with 4 locations in Sioux Falls featuring a variety of fresh donuts and rolls daily. Use code Lovely20 now through February 6, 2024 when you order online at flyboydonuts.com to get 20% off all orders over $20. TW: This episode contains a reference to miscarriage. How sweet it is for Tracy and Rachel to be joined by bestselling cookbook author and creator of the wildly popular blog How Sweet Eats, Jessica Merchant! In this vibrant conversation, Jessica explores the ways she has maintained a consistent, authentic voice in her work, as well as the keys to honoring and protecting her creativity and passion through a framework of boundaries and structured routine. Jessica and Tracy consider the evolution of a brand and the creation and marketing of content through an ever-expanding number of platforms; Rachel and Jessica discuss the finer points of connecting with readers and followers - and the surprising ways Jessica has provided comfort and nurturing outside of her delicious recipes. Rachel and Tracy convince Jessica to add South Dakota as a stop on her next book tour before the conversation unapologetically transforms into an impromptu book club meeting. Episode Mentions: Jessica Merchant’s Website: https://www.howsweeteats.com/ Jessica Merchant’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/howsweeteats/ Jessica Merchant’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/howsweeteats Seriously Delish: 150 Recipes for People Who Totally Love Food by Jessica Merchant https://amzn.to/3OqItjo The Pretty Dish: More than 150 Everyday Recipes and 50 Beauty DIYs to Nourish Your Body Inside and Out: A Cookbook by Jessica Merchant https://amzn.to/4biW9a2 Everyday Dinners: Real-Life Recipes to Set Your Family Up for a Week of Success: A Cookbook by Jessica Merchant https://amzn.to/4blayTm Block scheduling Here’s to Us by Elin Hilderbrand: https://amzn.to/47ZwwIs How Sweet Eats & Eli Hilderbrand Collaboration: https://www.howsweeteats.com/2016/06/exciting-news-a-collaboration-with-elin-hilderbrand/ Winter Street series by Elin Hilderbrand: https://amzn.to/4bdZ2ch The Pioneer Woman https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/ The Secret https://amzn.to/3vVwjZI What Are You Loving: Jessica: Page the Shop Kindle covers https://www.instagram.com/page.theshop/ Kindle Oasis https://amzn.to/3SiIIhJ Rachel: The Sentence by Louise Erdrich; https://amzn.to/3SlEJkE Birchbark Books https://birchbarkbooks.com/; Arizona Goat Yoga https://goatyoga.com/ Tracy: The Skinny Confidential Him + Her Show Episode 648: Dr. Michael Gervais https://tscpodcast.com/episodes/dr-michael-gervais/ The First Rule of Mastery: Stop Worrying about What People Think of You by Dr. Michael Gervais https://amzn.to/3OlZ8Vs

CW: Adult Language It’s a reconnection revolution as Rachel and Tracy welcome psychologist, speaker, and author Dr. Jody Carrington to the podcast for a dynamic conversation about counteracting humanity’s loneliness epidemic with empathy, emotional regulation, and Ram Dass’ simple, but powerful observation, “we are all just walking each other home.” Tracy and Jody examine specific ways to help various communities, from teachers and healthcare responders to law enforcement officers and children, lay down their trauma and work through it in healthy ways - and why it’s essential to seek context and exchange asking, “What is wrong with you?” for “What happened to you?”. Jody and Rachel grapple with the significance of having constant access to loved ones through technology and social media, as Jody explains why it’s vital to stop trying to fix our loved ones’ problems, instead simply acknowledging the broad spectrum of necessary human emotion, from sadness and anxiety to anger and fear - not just happiness. Everyone considers the mystique of the true crime podcast, citizen journalism, and the international phenomenon that is Taylor Swift. Episode Mentions: Dr. Jody Carrington’s Website: https://www.drjodycarrington.com/ Dr. Jody Carrington’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjodycarrington/?hl=en Dr. Jody Carrington’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drjodycarrington Dr. Jody Carrington’s Podcast: Everyone Comes from Somewhere https://www.drjodycarrington.com/podcast/ Feeling Seen: Reconnecting in a Disconnected World by Dr. Jody Carrington https://amzn.to/47DRjkT Kids These Days: A Game Plan For (Re)Connecting With Those We Teach, Lead, & Love by Dr. Jody Carrington https://amzn.to/3HmaF3m Teachers These Days: Stories and Strategies for Reconnection by Dr. Jody Carrington https://amzn.to/3Hix4hZ New Surgeon General [Dr. Vivek Murthy] Advisory Raises Alarm about the Devastating Impact of the Epidemic of Loneliness and Isolation in the United States Walking Each Other Home: Conversations on Loving and Dying by Ram Dass and Mirabai Bush https://amzn.to/3Hijfjo Everyone Comes From Somewhere Podcast Season 1 Episode 12: “How Trauma Shapes Our Lives” https://shows.acast.com/everyone-comes-from-somewhere/episodes/how-trauma-shapes-our-lives Dr. Peter Levine Dr. Gabor Mate Dr. Bruce Perry What Are You Loving: Dr. Jody Carrington: Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s Relationship; Harper’s Bazaar: “Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s Full Relationship Timeline” https://www.harpersbazaar.com/celebrity/latest/a45301082/taylor-swift-travis-kelce-full-relationship-timeline/ Rachel: Who Killed JFK? Podcast https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1119-who-killed-jfk-127000428/ Tracy: Writer Jessica Reed Kraus @houseinhabit https://www.instagram.com/houseinhabit/?hl=en

There’s no business like show business as Tracy and Rachel sit down with Grammy Award-winning artist, writer, and producer Genevieve Goings to discuss her celebrated career spanning a starring role in Disney Junior’s Choo Choo Soul to teaching and coaching a new generation of dreamers to embrace their authenticity and discover their unique voices. Genevieve reflects on how her upbringing as the daughter of musicians demonstrated that following her passion was a viable career path and explores the ways that simply showing up as the best version of herself generated unique opportunities - including how her career began with her not landing a role. Genevieve and Rachel consider the importance of representation and Genevieve’s relationship to being described as a “responsible role model”; Tracy and Genevieve discuss the value of empowering kids to develop into entrepreneurial entertainers through the use of technology and confidence in their own ideas and branding. Genevieve invites listeners to celebrate the season by checking out her Very Merry holiday album, while Rachel dedicates Genevieve’s “Crazy for Christmas Lady” song to Isn’t it Lovely?’s resident Queen of Christmas, Tracy. Everyone returns to the late 1990’s in the What Are You Loving? segment for a vibrant celebration of a full, yet manicured, eyebrow and a fabulous pair of patent leather Mary Jane platform pumps. Episode Mentions: Genevieve Goings’ Website: https://www.genevievegoings.com/ Genevieve Goings’ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/genevievegoings Genevieve Goings’ Facebook: Genevieve Goings https://www.facebook.com/genevieve.goings Genevieve Goings’ YouTube Channel: GenevieveGoings https://www.youtube.com/c/genevievegoings Alphabet Rockers https://www.alphabetrockers.com/ Jimmy Goings https://jimmygoings.com/ Choo Choo Soul https://disneynow.com/shows/choo-choo-soul Genevieve Goings’ Holiday Album: Very Merry https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_lbpF3dt6Zv2Ywqi9wvEjbIwGdR3FkGSgI What Are You Loving: Genevieve: The Money with Katie Show Podcast; https://podcast.moneywithkatie.com/ Pinterest; Open AI/Chat GPT; her adorable son; microblading Rachel: Steve Madden Mingle Mary Jane Platform Pump; https://shorturl.at/epKPX Genevieve’s extended family Tracy: Gemineye Studio’s Microblading https://www.gemineyestudio.com/

Rachel and Tracy are honored to welcome Janelle Campbell to the show for an honest, hopeful conversation centered around drug and alcohol addiction and recovery. Currently a Loved One Coach at Face It TOGETHER (a non-profit organization that provides confidential, peer coaching for all those impacted by addiction), Janelle explores her motivation for giving up her previous career to devote herself to being the empathetic resource for others that she herself needed at the start of her journey. She also shares her own lived experience of addressing addiction in her own family and the life-changing intervention that led her to where she is today. Encouraged by the mantra "don’t waste the pain", she explains how Face it TOGETHER uniquely approaches addiction and and urges listeners to remember there is always hope for wellness, healing, and recovery for those experiencing addiction - and that loved ones can regain their sense of peace and joy, even in the midst of chaos and uncertainty. Face It TOGETHER’s Website: https://www.wefaceittogether.org/ Face It TOGETHER’s Instagram: @faceittogether Face It TOGETHER’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wefaceittogether/ Sioux Falls Sidewalk Arts Festival https://www.washingtonpavilion.org/event/sidewalk-arts-festival-2024 What Are You Loving: Janelle: South Dakota Magazine https://www.southdakotamagazine.com/ Jorgenson Kraut and Pickles https://www.facebook.com/groups/104289523441/ Tracy: Mary Ruth’s Liquid Morning Multivitamin https://amzn.to/3T7sgD4 Rachel: Delamu Sushi Making Kit https://amzn.to/46ET40r This episode is brought to you by Ignite Fitness Studio! Ignite is passionate about creating a space where everyone feels safe to bring their authentic selves, celebrating the beauty of diversity and believing that positive change must start from within! Check out Ignite at ignitefitness.studio or the MindBody App! The content of this podcast episode is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your mental health professional or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have.

Prepare for a breakthrough as Tracy and Rachel are joined by licensed therapist, author, speaker, and coach Jason VanRuler to celebrate healing and healthy futures through a discussion of his new book Get Past Your Past: How Facing Your Broken Places Leads to True Connection. Through highlighting his own bouts with trauma, addiction, and healing; Jason offers listeners practical first steps when seeking therapy and explains the importance of facing, naming, and dealing with pain and grief. Jason and Tracy unpack current mental health trends, including the complex relationship between mental health accounts on social media and clinical diagnoses, as well as the conversation around hot topics such as narcissism. Rachel and Jason explore the importance of taking risks to pursue and nurture genuine human connections versus unhealthy dynamics of hero/rescuer/victim roles. Jason candidly discusses the “vulnerability hangover” that results from writing a book; Rachel and Tracy continue to quote Jason back to himself and extend the interview countless times with “one last question”. Episode Mentions: Jason VanRuler’s Website: https://www.jasonvr.com Jason VanRuler’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason.vanruler/?hl=en) Get Past Your Past: How Facing Your Broken Places Leads to True Connection by Jason VanRuler https://amzn.to/49SkPWq Narcissisim https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/narcissism Bass Weejuns Men’s Shoes https://www.ghbass.com/men/view-all/weejuns What Are You Loving: Jason: Florida/traveling somewhere warm; Experiencing Friendship with God: How the Wilderness Draws Us to His Presence by Faith Eury Cho https://amzn.to/3MNwNXt Tracy: Blurry Creatures Podcast; https://www.blurrycreatures.com/ Annie F. Downs That Sounds Fun podcast https://www.anniefdowns.com/ Rachel: Stay Near Organization https://staynear.co/

“It’s not how you fall, but it’s how you get back up.” Rachel and Tracy are thrilled to welcome entrepreneur and former administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration Linda McMahon to Isn’t it Lovely? for the ultimate conversation about resilience, creating opportunities, the dignity of work…and a little something about transforming World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) from an idea dreamed up at a kitchen table into a multinational public company. With grace and candor, Linda discusses the ebb and flow of entrepreneurship, including a brush with bankruptcy that included car repossession and a house auction in the midst of her second pregnancy, while celebrating the power of perseverance and the passion to rebuild new dreams. Linda also details the series of events that led to her path in politics and her sincere desire to make a difference, as well as the importance of understanding a life calling and reinventing opportunities. Linda and Tracy underscore the importance of women mentoring one another and honestly wanting each other to succeed, while Rachel and Linda explore what it means to “balance being out of balance” when it comes to work and family. Everyone agrees body-slamming is not exclusive to a WWE match, but is rather a recurring activity amongst our own children at home. Episode Mentions: Linda McMahon, 25th Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Association https://www.sba.gov/person/linda-mcmahon Linda McMahon Instagram: @sbamcmahon Linda McMahon Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lindamcmahon/ World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) https://www.wwe.com/ WWE & UFC Merger https://www.espn.com/wwe/story/_/id/36066332/endeavor-ufc-wwe-merger-2023-explained Women’s Leadership Live https://womensleadershiplive.com/ Sacred Heart University Women Can Have it All Series https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20140403005881/en/CORRECTING-and-REPLACING-Sacred-Heart-University-to-Launch-%E2%80%98Women-Can-Have-It-All%E2%80%99-Series-Hosted-by-Linda-McMahon What Are You Loving: Linda: Family and life, especially spending time with grandchildren; English Mastiffs; her visit to South Dakota; Rachel Oglesby Rachel: New Directions Down Syndrome Association https://newdirectionsdsa.com/ Tracy: Shop Dog Boutique https://shopdogboutique.com/

Tracy and Rachel are so grateful to welcome counselor and co-founder of Victus Counseling and Nutrition Services Faith Carlson to the show for a sensitive and nuanced conversation centered around eating disorder recovery. Faith compassionately provides framework and illustrations to better comprehend the impact and prevalence of eating disorders, including a broader understanding of the spectrum of behaviors and their place in overall mental health and wellness. In addition to her local work, Faith also consistently advocates on a national level to remove barriers to care, while emphasizing that hope and healing are always possible. Faith and Rachel explore ways to support loved ones facing this journey and the importance of simply believing their lived experiences, even if those experiences can be difficult to understand; Tracy and Faith discuss the power of language surrounding food and movement, particularly as it pertains to children and parenting. Everyone celebrates the power of a great partner and why we all need a handler at one time or another. Episode Mentions: Victus Counseling and Nutrition Services Website: https://www.victusrecovery.com/ National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD) Website: https://anad.org/ National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders Eating Disorder Statistics: https://anad.org/eating-disorders-statistics/ ACUTE Center for Eating Disorders and Severe Malnutrition by Denver Health https://www.acute.org/ Body Dysmorphic Disorder https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/body-dysmorphic-disorder/symptoms-causes/syc-20353938 Health at Every Size: The Surprising Truth About Your Weight by Linda Bacon https://amzn.to/3ZOoLTi Friends Pivot Scene https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L_PWbnHABsM What Are You Loving: Faith: Business partner and co-founder Lauren Cornay, especially her inspiration, joy, and ability to do the impossible Rachel: This Must Be the Place: Following the Breadcrumbs of Your Past to Discover Your Purpose Today by Jami Nato; Jami Nato’s Instagram: @jaminato https://amzn.to/3ZRY9B5 Tracy: Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact Carpet Cleaner Shampooer https://amzn.to/3RTBBxU

They’ve gone country! Dust off your boots and don the rhinestones to join Tracy and Rachel as they welcome country musician and philanthropist Trey Taylor to the show! Billed as the youngest African-American in country music history when he showed up on the Nashville scene at age 16, Trey shares how he fell in love with traditional country music (and its grande dame Dolly Parton) at the tender age of eight. This affinity led to the passion, discipline, and drive that resulted in a storybook ending of being signed to Dolly’s own producer by the time he was 16 years old. Trey explores the ways his signature style and faith in his dreams sustained him during years of bullying and misunderstanding, while emphasizing the importance of both respecting and entertaining an audience. Trey further explains how in the midst of a rigorous 300-show year upon graduating from high school he determined that 10 percent of his shows would be devoted to raising money for worthy causes, making philanthropy a cornerstone of his career. (Local listeners are invited to join Trey on Thursday, September 28, 2023 for An Intimate Evening with Trey Taylor to benefit anti-human trafficking organization Call to Freedom.) Trey and Rachel agree that sometimes you should meet your heroes, while Tracy and Trey celebrate the mash-up of culture and style and that all people really need are “three chords and the truth”. Trey Taylor Website: http://www.treytaylormusic.com/ Trey Taylor Instagram: @treytaylorofficial Trey Taylor Facebook: Trey Taylor Music Intimate Evening with Trey Taylor Event (A Benefit for Call to Freedom) https://calltofreedom.org/events/intimate-evening-with-trey-taylor/ Call to Freedom Website: https://calltofreedom.org/ Call to Freedom Instagram: @calltofreedomsd Dolly Parton Ronnie Milsap Glen Campbell Kenny Rogers Johnny Cash

This episode is brought to you by Ignite Fitness Studio! Ignite is passionate about creating a space where everyone feels safe to bring their authentic selves, celebrating the beauty of diversity and believing that positive change must start from within! Check out Ignite at ignitefitness.studio or the MindBody App! “These kids…we need to give them a voice…if we’re talking about empowering them, we’ve got to let them have a say so in it.” In a first for the podcast, Isn’t it Lovely? literally races after Boys and Girls Clubs of the Sioux Empire’s Bradyn Medrano (in a restaurant, wearing Kentucky Derby hats) to book him on the show to discuss his amazing work with area youth! Serving as the Boys and Girls Clubs of the Sioux Empire’s Teen and Outreach Director (as well as partnering with the Minnehaha County Regional Juvenile Detention Center), Bradyn shares the importance of building trust with youth through consistency, attention, and positive reinforcement. Drawing on his own experiences as a kid growing up with diverse talents and interests who didn’t fit a specific mold, as well as a lack of invested role models, Bradyn explores his calling to devote his life to recognizing youth needing resources and attention and equipping them to reach their fullest and brightest potential. Celebrating local partners such as GreatLIFE, Vanguard Hospitality, and local sports teams, this episode is a call to action to view all youth with a heart of compassion no matter what behaviors or context we may find them. Episode Mentions: Boys and Girls Clubs of the Sioux Empire Website: https://www.bgcsiouxempire.org/ Boys and Girls Clubs of the Sioux Empire Instagram: @bcgsiouxempire Boys and Girls Clubs of the Sioux Empire Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BGCSiouxEmpire Bradyn Medrano Afterschool Professional Appreciation Week Spotlight https://www.facebook.com/sdafterschoolnetwork/photos/a.157377198055067/1642961692829936/ Boys Town https://www.boystown.org/Pages/default.aspx GreatLIFE https://joingreatlife.com/ Vanguard Hospitality http://www.vanguardhospitality.com/#welcome What Are You Loving: Bradyn: Father’s Day with his daughter and seeing her smile; working out with his nephew and watching his confidence soar; seeing kids experiencing genuine joy and fun Tracy: Electric Scooter for Kids https://amzn.to/3YgoMPc Rachel: YMCA Camp Leif Ericson https://siouxfallsymca.org/camps/

This episode is brought to you by Ignite Fitness Studio! Ignite is passionate about creating a space where everyone feels safe to bring their authentic selves, celebrating the beauty of diversity and believing that positive change must start from within! Check out Ignite at ignitefitness.studio or the MindBody App! CW: This episode contains sensitive subject matter, including conversation around intimacy and sexual health. The content of this podcast episode is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your mental health professional or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have. “The goal is to have a feeling of wholeness…it’s about mind, body, soul - just that overall sense of wellness. When we feel good about ourselves - sexually, lovingly - we can conquer the world.” Rachel and Tracy are thrilled to be joined by Dr. Laurie Landeen for an enlightening conversation all about women’s intimacy and sexual health! Passionate about women’s health and wellness, Dr. Landeen shares what inspired her to pioneer Sanford Women’s intimacy clinic and reveals the ways intimacy isn’t solely about sexual intercourse. With candor and sensitivity, Dr. Landeen remains committed to compassionately removing barriers of shame and isolation to help her patients address concerns including decreased sexual desire, inability to orgasm, painful intercourse, and more in order to help them embrace physical, mental, and spiritual wholeness. Dr. Landeen and Tracy explore the importance of respectful, open communication about intimacy with children and adolescents in order to prevent misconceptions and create a strong foundation of self-esteem - including why saying “no” could be your best future “yes”; Rachel and Dr. Landeen acknowledge the importance of responding to vulnerability with safety, trust, education, and resources. Rachel is delighted to learn that Dr. Landeen has delivered over 5,000 babies, amounting to a medium-sized South Dakota town and Tracy reveals two of those babies were her own and credits Dr. Landeen for the gift of her family of five. Episode Mentions: Laurie Landeen, MD - Sanford Women’s https://www.sanfordhealth.org/doctors/laurie-landeen Molly Kuehl, DNP, APRN, CNP - Sanford Women’s https://www.sanfordhealth.org/doctors/molly-kuehl Sanford Women’s Intimacy Clinic https://news.sanfordhealth.org/womens/sexual-health-intimacy-clinic/ MED Magazine: Ob/Gyn Laurie Landeen, MD: Breaking Down Barriers to Intimacy https://www.midwestmedicaledition.com/articles/obgyn-laurie-landeen-md-breaking-down-barriers-to-intimacy Let’s Talk About Intimacy by Lori Walsh, South Dakota Public Radio Interview https://listen.sdpb.org/health/2019-07-03/lets-talk-about-intimacy Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/genitourinary-syndrome-of-menopause International Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health (ISSWSH) https://www.isswsh.org/ Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret 2023 Movie https://amzn.to/3PWbTaV Judy Blume Essentials Boxed Set https://amzn.to/3O0x6hc Judy Blume Teen Collection Boxed Set https://amzn.to/3NZANDO What Are You Loving: Dr. Laurie Landeen: her life with her husband and soulmate, Neal. Rachel: Judy Blume Forever Documentary Tracy: Daily Clean Food and Drink

It’s an unbeatable trifecta of energy, entrepreneurship, and encouragement as Tracy and Rachel welcome beloved local business owner and fitness instructor AshLeigh Cook to the podcast! AshLeigh shares how her lifelong love of physical activity led her to join a friend at the hot yoga classes that quite literally changed the trajectory of her life when the studio owner witnessed her passion and talent and urged her to pursue teacher training. AshLeigh explores the importance of physical activity and how it can be efficient and joyful, as well as the careful balance of celebrating health while changing the conversation around fitness culture to be more supportive and expansive, focused on general wellness and how a body feels versus how it looks. AshLeigh and Tracy outline the path to the creation of Ignite Fitness Studio during the height of a worldwide pandemic, while Rachel and AshLeigh discuss AshLeigh’s vision for a safe environment led by staff who nurture, empower, and serve the members well. Tracy confesses to a correlation between her most brilliant ideas and the endorphins resulting from yoga sculpt classes, while Rachel proposes AshLeigh produce and sell her own line of essential oils after the interview’s lighting round of questions skew heavily toward the cleanliness of the studio and the scent of its celebrated cold towels. Episode Mentions: AshLeigh’s Instagram: @ashbcook Ignite’s Website: https://ignitefitness.studio/ Ignite’s Instagram: @ignitesiouxfalls605 Ignite’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IgniteSiouxFalls605/ Perler Beads https://amzn.to/3XCm9H5 Third Place https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Third_place Snuggie/Wearable Blanket https://amzn.to/435iMtx What Are You Loving: AshLeigh: Summer and the special moments she’s been having with people Tracy: Collapsible Travel Cooler Bag https://amzn.to/3NSr1EU Rachel: Romantic Comedy by Curtis Sittenfeld https://amzn.to/4384cBk

“I just want to be the one that says ‘yes, you can’…especially if it was a dream planted on your heart. It is a vision; it is God saying ‘you can do this!’” Encouragement takes center stage this week as Rachel and Tracy welcome designer, entrepreneur, podcaster, and coach Rebekah Scott to the show! Appropriately christened The Encourager by her eponymous podcast, Rebekah brings her signature inspiration to the conversation, providing personal stories and practical tips for achieving balance and harmony between work and home, making dreams come true in the process. Rebekah explains the importance of time blocking and use of the 1% rule, while exploring the notion of seasons and taking the time to pause. Tracy and Rebekah discuss the value of writing one’s own obituary as a tool for setting and achieving goals; Rachel wonders if an empty chair at the table should be reserved for everyone’s favorite cheerleader, Bob Goff. Episode Mentions: Rebekah Scott’s Website: https://shoprsd.com/, designyourownpurse.com, 1948leather.com Rebekah Scott’s Instagram: @shoprsd Rebekah Scott’s Facebook: Rebekah Scott Designs The Encourager Podcast https://www.encouragerpodcast.com/ The Encourager Academy https://www.encouragerpodcast.com/academy Equipped to Execute by Rebekah Scott https://www.encouragerpodcast.com/offers/L87vL8FY/checkout Bob Goff https://www.bobgoff.com/ Throne Publishing Group https://thronepg.com/ Undistracted by Bob Goff https://amzn.to/3NaDbrc What Are You Loving: Rebekah: It’s okay to just be in a season, such as winter, and enjoy it without revamping everything in our lives Rachel: Daisy Jones and the Six Limited Series on Amazon Prime https://amzn.to/3P9hb2n "Daisy Jones and the Six" by Taylor Jenkins Reid https://amzn.to/3N6ODnk Tracy: Dakota Spirit Cheer Gym https://dakotaspirit.com/ Riley Katz

Sioux Falls-based entrepreneur and philanthropist Matt Paulson joins Isn’t it Lovely? this week to explore the intersection of business, faith, and community! Tracy and Rachel take copious notes as Matt shares his thoughts on everything from pendulum shifts in the workforce and the onset of a content recession to post-secondary educational trends and the rise of AI. Matt reveals the ways his unexpected foray into a theological seminary degree influenced his leadership style and expounds upon the impact his faith has had on his personal integrity, as well as the ways he conducts business and invests in the community. Tracy gets the scoop on the empowering organization Startup Sioux Falls and divulges that she was once an audience member at the Jay Leno show and had a hilarious interaction with him (which Rachel tried in vain to find for the show notes, much to her chagrin); Rachel and Matt discuss the lasting joy of investing in projects that do good for people, versus the fleeting happiness of materialistic pursuits. The episode wraps up with the first unofficial meeting of the Brady Olson (beloved Brandon Valley High School teacher) Fan Club. Episode Mentions: Matt Paulson’s Website: https://www.mattpaulson.com/ Matt Paulson’s Instagram: @mattpaulsonofficial Matt Paulson’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/matthewpaulson/ Marketbeat’s Website: https://www.marketbeat.com/ Startup Sioux Falls https://www.startupsiouxfalls.com/ Kairos University https://kairos.edu/legacy-partners/sioux-falls-seminary/ Faith Baptist Fellowship https://www.faithsf.com/ Dakota State University and MarketBeat Partner to Reimagine the Kirby Science Discovery Center’s Space & Technology Floor https://www.washingtonpavilion.org/node/3568 What Are You Loving: Matt: Traffic: Genius, Rivalry, and Delusion in the Billion-Dollar Race to Go Viral by Ben Smith https://amzn.to/43t0VOd Succession TV Series https://amzn.to/3C0JBE7 Rachel: Scout Tote Bags https://amzn.to/43t0VOd Tracy: Rebekah Scott Designs; https://shoprsd.com/ Brandon Valley High School; https://brandonvalley.k12.sd.us/bvhs/ Brady Olson (Brandon Valley HS teacher)

Rachel and Tracy are delighted to welcome Char Green-Maximo, South Dakota Urban Indian Health’s Grant Project Manager, to the podcast for a conversation all about connection and culture! Char shares her passion for creating and promoting safe communities that inspire physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness, as well as embracing and offering opportunities for healing and lifelong learning. She shares the importance of leaning into culture and connection as safeguards against unhealthy or risky behaviors, while celebrating the renewal of positive energy and refreshment of spirit that comes from consistent interactions with one another. Char also expands on the comprehensive care and services provided by South Dakota Urban Indian Health, including cultural activities. Rachel and Char discuss ways to show allyship and support for the Native community; Char and Tracy initiate a call to action for the creation of a resource hub for Indigenous people in Sioux Falls. Episode Mentions: Char Green-Maximo’s Instagram: @misschargreen South Dakota Urban Indian Health Website: https://sduih.org/ South Dakota Urban Indian Health Instagram: @sduih.clinic Sioux Falls Native American Day Parade https://www.travelsouthdakota.com/sioux-falls/events/ethniccultural/sioux-falls-native-american-day-parade Generation Red Road https://www.genredroad.org/ National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women https://www.niwrc.org/restoration-magazine/february-2020/national-day-awareness-missing-and-murdered-indigenous-women-may Ain Dah Yung Center https://adycenter.org/ Isn’t it Lovely? Podcast Season 4 Episode 3: “Isn’t it Lovely to Live a Life of Service? Special Guest: Sioux Falls Police Chief Jon Thum” https://www.isitnotlovely.com/episodes/jonthum Wynwood, Miami What Are You Loving: Char: Juicing https://healthiersteps.com/10-amazing-benefits-of-juicing-raw-fruits-and-vegetables/ Tracy: Hoover CleanSlate Plus Carpet and Upholstery Spot Cleaner/Stain Remover https://amzn.to/42wK104 Rachel: Ronning Library https://www.siouxlandlib.org/

Isn’t it Lovely? is all about the Benjamins this week as moveHer Money founder Sarah Kurtenbach joins Rachel and Tracy to discuss her passion for teaching girls and young women all things finance! Sarah shares her own personal story of going from a broke college graduate with a $25 weekly grocery budget to a vice president of a Fortune 500 media company while still in her mid-20s. She examines the finer points of the quote “luck is where preparedness meets opportunity”, emphasizing the power of networking, follow-through, and openness to unique possibilities, and also reveals the pivotal moment she knew it was time to merge her passions for money and business to create online educational courses for girls and young women to learn about saving, investing, giving, credit cards, and more. Tracy and Sarah reminisce about stretching a budget utilizing 99-cent taco menus; Sarah and Rachel celebrate the way a true calling provides consistent energy. Everyone acknowledges the power of business clothing from Forever 21. Episode Mentions: Sarah Kurtenbach’s Website: https://www.moveher.money/ Sarah Kurtenbach’s Instagram: @sarahkurtenbach moveHER Money’s Instagram: @movehermoney Blinq Media acquisition https://abcnews.go.com/Business/gannett-buys-social-media-ad-company-blinq-media/story?id=17053864 What Are You Loving: Sarah: Sparkling water with apple cider vinegar; Embrace Church Esther Series https://www.youtube.com/c/iamembrace Rachel: ManDate Podcast with Ben Krush and Ryan Konz https://www.instagram.com/mandatepod/?hl=en Tracy: Ransom Church Adam and Eve: the Cost of a No Message https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wbaKnjydfMw

Tracy and Rachel are thrilled to honor the changing seasons of spring and renewal by interviewing author Rebecca Mann Kelly! Rebecca’s new book Return to the Garden: Discovering God’s Original Design for Women offers a powerful invitation to all women to leave places where they are in bondage & captivity and be restored to their true identities. Part memoir, part call to action, Rebecca shares her personal experiences breaking free from damaging cycles of emotional abuse and people-pleasing to embrace the total freedom of being a beloved daughter of God. Encouraging a contextualization of modern misogyny, patriarchy, and feminism through the notion of the curse set forth in the Biblical book of Genesis, Rebecca reminds listeners that Jesus Himself offered a countercultural, radical form of love to both men and women. Rebecca and Tracy examine cycles of manipulation and control within unhealthy relationships; Rachel and Rebecca discuss with relief that God is not an angry authority figure waiting to punish, but rather a loving Creator who craves relationship with His children. All three women collectively lament Daylight Savings Time and the general lack of sleep that follows. Episode Mentions: Rebecca Mann Kelly’s Website: https://www.rebeccamannkelly.com/ Rebecca Mann Kelly’s Instagram: @rebecca4jesus Rebecca Mann Kelly’s Facebook: Rebecca.Mann.Kelly Return to the Garden: Discovering God's Original Design for Women by Rebecca Mann Kelly https://amzn.to/3moUsTZ Genesis 1-3 New International Version https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=genesis%201-3&version=NIV Isaiah 61 New International Version https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah%2061&version=NIV A Brief History of Misogyny: The World’s Oldest Prejudice by Jack Holland https://amzn.to/3ZUhf7V Ephesians 5 New International Version https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Ephesians%205&version=NIV Christine Caine’s Instagram: @christinecaine Ephesians 6 New International Version https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=ephesians%206&version=NIV Sails by Pat Barrett https://www.worshiptogether.com/songs/sails-pat-barrett/ What Are You Loving: Rebecca: Family sleepovers Tracy: Christine Caine Equip and Empower Podcast https://christinecaine.com/content/podcast-updated-2021/gmgn94?permcode=gmgn94&site=true Rachel: Look’s Market London Fog; All My Knotted Up Life: a Memoir by Beth Moore https://amzn.to/3ZVp8K8 Disclosure: We only recommend products we use, and all opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links that add no additional cost to you; we may earn a small commission.

This episode is brought to you by Ignite Fitness Studio! Ignite is passionate about creating a space where everyone feels safe to bring their authentic selves, celebrating the beauty of diversity and believing that positive change must start from within! Check out Ignite at ignitefitness.studio or the MindBody App! It’s a celebration of leadership and local government as the Honorable Paul TenHaken takes a break from City Hall to join Tracy and Rachel for a behind-the-scenes honest take on what it is like to serve as the mayor of Sioux Falls, South Dakota! Paul speaks candidly about the rewards and challenges of this wholly unique role, as well as the values that drive his passions, including faith, fitness, mental health and wellness, and protecting the youth of Sioux Falls through collaborative programming. Tracy and Paul discuss the importance of spouses yielding to one another in marriage, while Paul and Rachel explore the balance between protecting family life while remaining accessible to constituents. Paul reveals the routines that center his identity and keep him grounded and celebrates the power of local government. Rachel ponders receiving daily coaching and encouragement calls from Paul’s amazing wife Jill; Tracy declares it’s time to make school board meetings cool again. Episode Mentions: Mayor Paul TenHaken’s Website: https://www.siouxfalls.org/council/members/p-tenhaken Mayor Paul TenHaken’s Instagram: @paultenhaken Mayor Paul TenHaken’s Facebook: Paul TenHaken Midco Aquatic Center https://www.midcoaquaticcenter.org/ YouVersion Bible App https://www.youversion.com/the-bible-app/ Pigeon 605: At home, Paul and Jill TenHaken reflect on year that called for leadership https://pigeon605.com/at-home-paul-and-jill-tenhaken-reflect-on-year-that-called-for-leadership/ Chick-fil-A Empire Place, Sioux Falls, South Dakota https://www.chick-fil-a.com/locations/sd/empire-place-sd Mayor’s Fitness Challenge https://www.siouxfalls.org/100miles Sioux 52 Mentoring Initiative http://sioux52.org/ Isn’t it Lovely? Podcast Season 4 Episode 3: “Isn’t it Lovely to Live a Life of Service? Special Guest: Sioux Falls Police Chief Jon Thum” https://www.isitnotlovely.com/episodes/jonthum What Are You Loving: Paul: Netflix’s Physical: 100 Holy Moments: A Handbook for the Rest of Your Life by Matthew Kelly; https://amzn.to/3YZ7swS Indoor Bike Trainer Tracy: Break Point docuseries on Netflix Rachel: International Women’s Day 2023; Women’s History Month; Bread Givers: A Novel by Anzia Yeziereska https://amzn.to/3loMGsH Disclosure: We only recommend products we use and all opinions expressed here are our own. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, we may earn a small commission.