As The Make a Difference Series comes to a close, we're taking time to reflect on the incredible women whose stories have inspired all of us to lead with purpose and serve with heart. This episode is a celebration of how faith, courage, and authenticity can create ripple effects of change that touch countless lives.

We revisit some of our favorite moments from the series — including Noelle Schnacky, Miss Florida’s Teen 2025, whose Hope for Heart Kids Foundation was born out of love and loss, supporting families impacted by congenital heart defects. We also highlight Christy Ashby and Kate Slentz, the powerhouse mother-daughter duo behind Orange Appeal Magazine and The Orlando Women’s Conference, who have built platforms that celebrate women and strengthen our community.

Paris Richardson, Miss Florida 2025, continues to inspire us through her C.R.O.W.N. of Health initiative, bringing wellness and education to children and families across Florida. Jaeann Ashton, Executive Director of Community Engagement at AdventHealth Central Florida, reminds us how compassion-driven leadership and listening first can transform the way we care for our communities We also share updates from Keesha Scott, whose honesty and courage around motherhood and recovery continue to inspire; Karen Keene, whose strength and advocacy following tragedy uplift women through mentorship; and Dr. Karwanna Irving, whose passion for helping women create wealth with purpose is transforming the entrepreneurial space.

Finally, we spotlight the continued work of Jessica Galo with Be a MindLeader and Johanna Kandel with The National Alliance for Eating Disorders, two women who continue to make monumental strides in mental health awareness and healing.

Each of these stories reflects the heart of what The Make a Difference Series stands for — women using their voices, their gifts, and their experiences to create lasting impact. We hope this finale reminds you that your light, your story, and your purpose truly have the power to make a difference.

…And because this series was such a success, we will be doing it again! Stay tuned for more information!

💖 Memorable Moments

• “When life feels heavy, I lean into my quiet time with God, trusting that what happens in private prepares me for what’s ahead.”
  — Noelle Schnacky, Founder of Hope for Heart Kids
• “When women collaborate instead of compete, entire communities grow stronger together.”
  — Christi Ashby, Co-Founder of Orange Appeal Magazine
• “Leadership isn’t about recognition — it’s about responsibility.”
  — Paris Richardson, Miss Florida 2025 & Founder of C.R.O.W.N. of Health
• “When organizations listen first and act with empathy, entire communities change for the better.”
  — Jaeann Ashton, Executive Director of Community Engagement, AdventHealth Central Florida
• “People don’t connect with perfection — they connect with authenticity.”
  — Keesha Scott, Founder of Cake for Dinner & Co-Founder of Guardian Recovery
• “Resilience is built one act of courage at a time.”
  — Karen Keene, Advocate & Mentor, Athena Next Gen Orlando
• “Confidence isn’t arrogance — it’s trusting the vision God has placed on your heart.”
  — Dr. Karwanna Irving, Founder of She’s Got Goals
• “One conversation can change — and even save — a life.”
  — Jessica Galo, Director of Specialty Care, AdventHealth for Children & Be a Mind Leader
• “When you turn your pain into purpose, your story becomes a lifeline for someone else.”
  — Johanna Kandel, Founder & CEO of The Alliance for Eating Disorders
• “Making a difference doesn’t always start big — it starts with one brave decision to say yes to the whisper inside that says, I can do something.”
  — Allison Walsh

• Additional Resources & Links
  • Connect with Allison: www.allisonwalshconsulting.com/newsletter
  • Subscribe to the Podcast: https://pod.link/1505347834
• Thank you to our sponsors!
  • Learn more about AdventHealth for Women: www.AdventHealthforwomen.com
  • Get involved with Be a Mindleader: http://beamindleader.com/

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