Episode 270In this powerful episode of the NotBasicBlonde Podcast, I’m joined by bestselling author, global speaker, and mental health advocate Kevin Hines. Kevin shares the extraordinary true story of surviving a suicide attempt after jumping from the Golden Gate Bridge—an experience that changed his life forever and led him to dedicate his mission to helping others find hope.Kevin opens up about the struggles that led to his darkest moment, the miracle that saved his life, and the remarkable journey of healing, resilience, and recovery that followed. Together, we discuss the importance of suicide prevention, recognizing the warning signs, breaking the stigma surrounding mental health, and the everyday practices that can help us build emotional resilience and stay mentally healthy.If you or someone you know is struggling, this episode could make a life-changing difference.GuestKevin Hines is a storyteller. He is a best selling author, global public speaker, and award winning documentary filmmaker. In the Year 2000, Kevin attempted to take his life by jumping off the Golden Gate Bridge. Many factors contributed to his miraculous survival including a sea lion which kept him afloat until the Coast Guard arrived. Kevin now travels the world sharing his story of hope, healing, and recovery while teaching people of all ages the art of wellness & the ability to survive pain with true resilience. His motto: #BeHereTomorrow and every day after that. He is one of only thirty-six (less than 1%) to survive the fall from the Golden Gate Bridge. In 2016, Mental Health America awarded Kevin their highest honor, The Clifford W. Beers Award for his efforts to improve the lives of and attitudes toward people with mental illnesses. Previously, he was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award by the National Council of Behavioral Health in partnership with Eli Lilly. Kevin has also been awarded by SAMSHA as a Voice Awards Fellow and Award Winner, an Achievement Winner by the US Veterans Affairs and received over 30 U.S. military excellence medals as a civilian.Kevin sat on the boards of the International Bipolar Foundation (IBPF), the Bridge Rail Foundation (BRF) and the Mental Health Association of San Francisco (MHASF) and on the Survivors Committee of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Previously, he was a board member of the Northern California Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) and was a two-term member of San Francisco’s Mental Health Board. He has spoken in congressional hearings alongside Patrick Kennedy in support of The Mental Health Parity Bill. He continues his policy work as an Ambassador to the National Council for Behavioral Health.In the summer of 2013, Kevin released his bestselling memoir titled Cracked Not Broken, Surviving and Thriving After A Suicide Attempt. He is currently producing a documentary entitled Suicide: The Ripple Effect. Kevin’s will to live and stay mentally well has inspired people worldwide. His compelling story has touched diverse, global audiences within colleges and universities, high schools, corporations, clergy, military, clinicians, health and medical communities, law enforcement organizations, and various industries. Thousands have communicated to Hines that his story helped save their lives. He has reached millions with his story.His story was featured in the 2006 film The Bridge by the film director and producer Eric Steel. Kevin believes in the power of the human spirit and in the fact that you can find the ability to live mentally well. His mantra: “Life is a gift, that is why they call it the present. Cherish it always.”HostOlyasha Novozhylova @notbasicblonde_NotBasicBlonde Podcast @nbbpodcast
Episode 269In this inspiring episode of the NotBasicBlonde Podcast, I’m joined by rapper, singer, songwriter, and entrepreneur Qveen Herby. From rising to fame as one half of the pop duo Karmin to reinventing herself as an independent artist with a bold new identity, Qveen shares the journey behind building a career entirely on her own terms.We dive into what it takes to stay creatively inspired, how artists can stand out and build a loyal audience in today’s digital world, and why authenticity is more valuable than following trends. Qveen also shares her perspective on entrepreneurship, personal growth, confidence, and creating a life and career that align with your vision.Whether you’re an artist, entrepreneur, content creator, or simply looking for the motivation to pursue your biggest goals, this conversation is filled with practical wisdom, empowering insights, and the mindset shifts needed to create lasting success.GuestQveen Herby is a platinum-selling independent rapper and self-made icon of confidence, lyricism, and boss energy. You may recognize her signature bob and bold style from trend-setting internet moments or ear worms like “Vitamins” + “Sugar Daddy.” Her aura-clearing confidence has morphed into a movement as much as music. Catch her live on tour for a mystical escape to ISLE OF QVEEN: a high-vibe, high-fashion, full-permission experience that’ll have you leaving louder, bolder, and fully in your power. Get lost in her world at QVEENHERBY.COMHost Olyasha Novozhylova @notbasicblonde_NotBasicBlonde Podcast @nbbpodcast
Episode 268This is a truly legendary episode of the NotBasicBlonde Podcast with music industry powerhouse Wendy Starland. As the woman who discovered and developed Lady Gaga, Wendy takes us behind the scenes of one of the greatest success stories in music history and reveals what it really takes to recognize, nurture, and build extraordinary talent.In this inspiring conversation, Wendy shares the mindset, habits, and qualities that separate world-class performers from everyone else. She opens up about her own journey in the music industry, the lessons she’s learned from working with some of the biggest names in entertainment, and why resilience, authenticity, and unwavering belief in your vision are essential for lasting success.Whether you’re an entrepreneur, artist, creator, or simply chasing a big dream, this episode is packed with timeless wisdom, practical advice, and powerful stories that will inspire you to unlock your full potential and pursue greatness.GuestWendy Starland @wendystarland is an American singer, songwriter and music producer from Los Angeles. Starland was honored by The Songwriters Hall of Fame, was named VH1's, Best Emerging Artist, was featured on Moby's Grammy nominated album Last Night, and opened for Sheryl Crow and Jack White at the Michigan International Speedway. In addition, Starland discovered and developed 11-time Grammy, 2 time Golden Globe, and Oscar winning icon Lady Gaga. Starland developed Lady Gaga's career during the recording of Lady Gaga's album The Fame, which received Billboard's Album of the Decade – having logged 62 of its record-setting 108 total weeks at No. 1 on the Top Dance/Electronic Albums chart this decade.Starland was named in the Beckhamhouse Book as one of the Great Female Singers alongside Aretha Franklin, Billie Holiday, Etta James, and Natalie Cole. Starland's single, "Dancing with the Sea", was released on Universal alongside Norah Jones, Feist, and Edie Brickell. The song hit number eight on the music charts giving her the opportunity to tour Europe. Starland signed a major music publishing contract with BMG Rights Management. Starland was a featured performer at MI Fest, opening for Sheryl Crow and Jack White. Starland also performed at the Cannes Film Festival at Cinemoi Network's charity event benefiting Children Uniting Nations with producer and DJ Paul Oakenfold, Ashlee Simpson, and Evan Ross. Wendy Starland performed with Kii Arens and James Bourne for Linda Perry’s Rock-N-Relief Concert. HostOlyasha Novozhylova @notbasicblonde_NotBasicBlonde Podcast @nbbpodcast
Episode 267Join us for an eye-opening conversation with pelvic floor physical therapist Dr. Sara Reardon as we dive into one of the most overlooked topics in women’s health. From postpartum recovery and pelvic floor dysfunction to leakage, painful intercourse, abdominal separation, and the truth about Kegels, Dr. Sara breaks down what every woman should know—but often isn’t told. She explains why so many postpartum concerns are dismissed as “just part of motherhood,” what a pelvic floor assessment involves, and how to recognize the signs that your body may need support. Whether you’re a new mom or simply want to better understand your body, this episode is packed with practical advice and empowering insights to help you prioritize your long-term health and well-being.GuestSara Reardon PT, DPT, WCS is a doctor of physical therapy and board-certified pelvic floor specialist. Sara specializes in the treatment of pelvic floor health, pregnancy and postpartum recovery. She is the founder of the The Vagina Whisperer, an online platform for pelvic floor education and exercise and owns a private practice in her hometown of New Orleans, NOLAPelvic Health. You can find her on Instagram at @the.vagina.whisperer and TikTok @thevagwhisperer.HostOlyasha Novozhylova @notbasicblonde_NotBasicBlonde @nbbpodcast
Episode 266Join us for an inspiring conversation with entrepreneur and investor Jaclyn Johnson, founder of Create & Cultivate and New Money Ventures. Jaclyn shares how losing her corporate job became the catalyst for building a multi-million-dollar company, the lessons she learned from taking bold risks, and why she believes entrepreneurship often requires confidence before certainty. She also discusses the future of venture capital, the changing flow of money and opportunities for women founders, and the practical insights behind her bestselling book, The Work Party. Whether you’re launching a business, growing your career, or looking for motivation to take the next leap, this episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiring stories.GuestJaclyn Johnson is a serial entrepreneur and the founder of Create & Cultivate. She sold her first business by age 28 and went on to launch and sell her second multimillion-dollar company, Create & Cultivate, before 35. Founded in 2012 to address the lack of resources and community for female entrepreneurs, Create & Cultivate became a first-of-its-kind platform achieving seven-figure profitability and eight-figure revenue, partnering with Fortune 500 brands including Amazon, Mastercard, and Microsoft, and hosting speakers such as Kim Kardashian, Tyra Banks, Jessica Alba, Issa Rae, Chrissy Teigen, and Martha Stewart. After twelve years of success, Jaclyn has returned to lead the brand into its next chapter.A Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree and Adweek Disruptor, Jaclyn is a recognized thought leader for millennial and Gen Z women. Her work and insights have been featured in Fast Company, the LA Times, Entrepreneur, and more. She is the founder of Cherub, a double-sided marketplace connecting founders and funders, and serves as an advisor and angel investor in women-owned businesses including Away, Live Tinted, and Chillhouse.HostOlyasha Novozhylova @notbasicblonde_NotBasicBlonde @nbbpodcast