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The Polished Podcast

Christian working women, the Polished Podcast is for you. Our show will encourage and equip you to navigate the workplace and explore your faith in authentic community. Kat Armstrong, host of the Polished Podcast, amplifies diverse female voices in career-focused, Christ-centered conversations.
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Now displaying: 2019
Dec 12, 2019

Have you ever struggled to reconcile parts of your faith? This time of year tends to bring up all of the feelings about church and our own relationship with God, which can leave us feeling lost in the questions. If you can relate, there’s no need to feel alone! In today’s episode, Taylor shares how she has learned to reconcile her faith when she doesn’t see the world or her faith  in black and white.

Taylor Nichols is a podcaster, speaker and the chief vision office at Nichols Construction.  

Connect With Taylor  

Instagram: @nichols_taylor

Verses:

Proverbs 15:4 "Gentle words are a tree of life"

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Dec 12, 2019

Teri Ijeoma began her professional career working in education and non-profits. When she started trading stocks nine years ago, she initially saw it as an opportunity to simply supplement her income. However, she was so successful with this side hustle that in 2017, she decided to quit her job, travel the world, and begin trading full-time. While traveling, Teri was constantly asked to show others how she was successfully trading in the stock market. She set up and taught her first class in Thailand, her second in Vietnam, and had a fully-fledged curriculum created by the time she returned to the States. Teri now offers an online curriculum that shares her investing strategies with people all over the world. She also partners with organizations and companies to train and empower individuals to achieve financial freedom and build wealth through investing.

Teri received her Bachelors degree in Management Science from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and her Masters in Media and Communications from Dallas Theological Seminary. She was named 2018 Entrepreneur of the Year by National Black MBA Association, and was the Grand Champion of Teachable’s 2019 Creator Challenge. You can reach her on instagram at @imaninvestor , or online at itradeandtravel.com.

Connect With Teri 

Instagram: @imaninvestor 

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Dec 10, 2019

Mary Amoedo is a lover of Jesus, wife of Richard, and proud mother of Brittany, Vyvien and Zachary (in that order)!

Mary is a former engineer whose passion for personal growth combined with her love of people has helped her and her husband, Richard, to become one of the most successful couples in direct sales. They are currently top income earners with Ambit Energy, the largest direct seller of energy in the world. It’s their passion to help others achieve their dreams that has catapulted them to their current level of success.

In 1998 while in her young 20s, she was introduced to the concept of personal growth and development and it radically changed her life. Since then, she has been on the never-ending journey to be everything that God created her to be.

Mary leads as a servant leader and has a calling to coach and train other women in having it all without sacrificing anything. She has found a powerful way to intentionally integrate her faith, family and business. Her desire is to help as many people as she can to become free – financially, emotionally, and spiritually.

She was born as the 6th of 7 children of immigrant parents. She was born as they were emigrating from Vietnam and spent the early days of her life in a cradle made from a cardboard box. She never forgets the humble beginnings she came from and uses that to help others know that their future is never dictated by their past.

Mary's Life Verse
Matthew 5:16
16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that[a] they may see your good works andgive glory to your Father who is in heaven.

Connect With Mary

Instagram: @maryamoedo

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Dec 10, 2019

Cheryl Luke is committed to helping people connect with their God-given purpose and challenges them to embrace the story of their lives. With over 35 years in ministry, Cheryl's goal is to equip and inspire others to acknowledge Christ’s unyielding love and share it with those around them. Her warmth and wisdom resonate as she delivers God’s message of restoration and hope. Cheryl lives in Austin, Texas and works at Shoreline Church.

Connect With Cheryl

Instagram: @cherylluke

Website: Cherylluke.com

Verses:

Galatians 5:1 " It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery."

Hebrews 12:1-2 "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God."

Romans 15:13 " May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."

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Dec 5, 2019

Sheila Walls has been described as a calm yet strategic influencer positioned to ignite and cultivate positive change in individuals, teams, and organizations. She is a wife, mother, inspirational speaker, teacher, preacher, pastor, and leader who passionately pursues purpose and Kingdom impact.

Sheila has been married to her best friend and her partner for life, Christopher Walls, for 24 fruitful years. They have been blessed with four amazing miracles: Ernest, Christopher II, Evan, and Kiersten.

Sheila is Associate Pastor of Life Community Church-Collin County in McKinney, Texas under the leadership of her husband who serves as Senior Pastor; is the founder and overseer of Faith Empowered Women - a ministry that equips women to be empowered by their faith, to live life victoriously, laugh contagiously, and love willingly. She is employed by State Farm Insurance Companies where she leads and develops people, builds highly productive teams, and together with her team achieves remarkable results.

When asked what do you really want others to remember about you, Sheila responds "that I am completely in love with Jesus Christ and above all else, my desire is simply to please Him."

Today's episode is sponsored by Dyan Elizabeth Photography.

Connect With Sheila 

Instagram: @sdeewalls

Links From The Show

Life Community Church 

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Nov 29, 2019

Morgan Eseke is passionate about helping all ages of women experience a deep, meaningful relationship with Jesus Christ and to fall in love with God’s Word. She writes about faith, relationships and career at morganeseke.com. Morgan works as a marketing professional and organizational health consultant, helping businesses simplify strategy and craft compelling messages. In 2009, Morgan founded CoffeeTalk in Norman, Oklahoma, a multigenerational mentorship ministry focused on providing biblical wisdom and leadership development for all ages of women. She is currently pursuing a Masters in Christian Education at Dallas Theological Seminary. She and her husband, David, live in Dallas with their two daughters. They are active members of Watermark Community Church.

Connect With Morgan

Instagram: @morganeseke

Website: morganeseke.com

Links From The Show

Margin: Restoring Emotional, Physical, Financial, and Time Reserves to Overloaded Lives

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Nov 29, 2019

Stephanie Allen works as a trust officer for Argent Trust Company, assisting individuals as they navigate the issues surrounding inherited wealth. Prior to joining Argent, Stephanie was a trust officer/assistant vice president at Frost Wealth Advisors in Austin beginning in 2015, but started her career in private law practice as an estate planning and probate attorney. Stephanie earned her law degree from Regent University in Virginia Beach, Virginia, and a Bachelor of Science from Southwestern Assemblies of God University in Waxahachie, Texas. Additionally, she holds a Master of Laws in Taxation from the University of Alabama. Stephanie is a member of the State Bar of Texas, a member of the Estate Planning Council of Central Texas, serves on the board of the Estate Planning and Probate Section of the Austin Bar Association as its President-Elect, and previously served on the boards of Travis County Women Lawyers and AGE of Central Texas.

Stephanie is one of those unicorns who grew up in Austin and still calls it “home”. She has served as part of the leadership team for Polished-Austin and in various volunteer capacities at her church. An INFP and Enneagram 4w5 (tritype 4-7-1), Stephanie is “all the feels, all the time”, loves all things creative, can overthink and over-research almost anything, is an extroverted-introvert, and an idealist to boot. She enjoys cooking, traveling, reading, singing, collecting craft supplies, playing board/card games with her family, and most of all spending time with her husband of 15 years, Mark, and their two dogs, Mozart and Gretchen.

Connect With Stephanie 

Instagram: @stephillyalongtheway

Vereses

Philippians 4:6-7 "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

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Nov 26, 2019

Nicole Clark is a Texas native who loves Jesus and spends her days as a servant leader. A former back-up dancer, she now uses her experiences in a service environment. Founder of a 501(c)(3) women’s ministry and children's ministry director, Nicole enjoys spending time with her family, reading and learning more about the bible. Nicole lives in Plano, TX with her husband Darren and daughter Delanie.

Connect With Nicole 

Instagram: @nicolehillclark

Links from the Show 

Twelve 12 Ministries

Vereses

Ephesians 2:8-10 "For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."

Romans 12:12 "Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer."

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Nov 21, 2019

One way we can push back against consuming chaos is to be there for those close to us who are in the midst of pain and loss. In today’s episode, Kimberly Alexander shares how the presence of her family and friends following her husband’s death was crucial for helping her remain unmoved in the face of devastating loss. Now, Kimberly spends much of her time rallying for others though her cancer awareness advocacy work. Her example shows us that we can use our past trials to comfort others who may be going through similar circumstances. Let’s be women who come together for our friends, families and communities when chaos and loss hits.

Kimberly Alexander is a speaker, cancer advocate, radio show co-host, experience coordinator and author. After losing her husband, NFL linebacker Elijah Alexander to complications due to multiple myeloma in 2010, she decided to dedicate her time to raising awareness about the disease, fundraise for cancer research and serve as a resource for cancer patients and their caregivers.
Alexander was featured on Dateline NBC with Tom Brokaw discussing her life as a cancer caregiver as Brokaw shared his experience with myeloma. She narrated the award-winning health video “Multiple Myeloma in the African American Community”, hosted the Cancer Patient Survival Dinner during the American Society of Hematology convention and has served as a guest panelist for both the Society of Oncology Social Workers, and the Lone Star Blood Cancer Conference. She recently sat on a panel during the National Black Caucus of State Legislators discussing the importance of diversity in clinical trials and in 2014 penned, “Fairytales, Fate and Fortitude” in Dare to be A Difference Maker, a story that chronicles her family’s experience during her husband’s fight with cancer.
With a degree in broadcast journalism from the University of Colorado at Boulder, Alexander is certified in non-profit management and owns a boutique consulting firm called KimCONNECTS. She co-hosts The G.A.M.E. (Golf & More Experience) on 105.3 The Fan, in Dallas, Texas. As a member of the board of trustees for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of North Texas, she serves as the Vice-Chair of Communications. In addition to that role, she is a founding board member of Off the Field, Player’s Wives Association, a non-profit comprised of active and retired NFL wives, where she coordinated projects with Habitat for Humanity, The Salvation Army, and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. She also serves on the family advisory board of The Football Players Health Study at Harvard University, which focuses on improving the health of football players after leaving the NFL.

Connect With Kimberly

Instagram: @thekimalexander

Vereses

2 Corinthians 1:2-5 "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God. For just as we share abundantly in the sufferings of Christ, so also our comfort abounds through Christ."

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Nov 19, 2019

Embodying home cooking at its finest, Melissa d’Arabian
naturally connects with today’s diverse families to offer
unique yet relatable food and lifestyle solutions that are
part of a bigger story about how to eat well, be a mindful
consumer, and spend with purpose. d’Arabian won
season 5 of “The Next Food Network Star”, subsequently
hosted “Ten Dollar Dinners”, and is the New York Times
bestselling author of Ten Dollar Dinners: 140 Recipes and
Tips to Elevate Simple, Fresh Meals Any Night of the Week.
Melissa and her family live just outside San Diego.

Connect With Melissa 

Instagram: @melissadarabian

Links from the Show 

Buy Melissa's new book! 

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Nov 14, 2019

Have you ever been angry with God or felt beyond frustrated that you couldn’t control a painful situation? Nothing can make us feel more chaotic than when we are totally unable to control a specific situation, person or even what’s happening to our own bodies. In today’s episode, Bren shares about how she learned to totally relinquish control to God when faced with difficult circumstances in her life including cancer and infertility.

Born and raised here in Dallas, Bren has never had to stray far from her hometown to find God’s plans for her. Her very favorite “things” big D has brought her are her husband of 25 years, Greg, and their daughter Jordan who attends TCU in Ft Worth. Bren graduated from SMU with a degree in music & vocal performance. Her musical background spans several genres and has allowed her to share the stage with everyone from local radio personalities, to Tony nominated artists, to Bob Hope, and LeAnn Rimes.

Bren’s early music career was heavily focused in Regional Theater, where she performed roles such as Christine in Phantom, Mary in Jesus Christ Super Star, Magnolia in Showboat and Marion in The Music Man.

Along the way, Bren has had her share of heartaches and challenges; from infertility and miscarriages, to a long battle with cancer. The Lord, however, has been gracious to give her many avenues to use her gifts to share of His faithfulness. While she has a deep love for musical theater, Bren could never escape her love for singing other genres and for leading worship. Those loves paired with her desire to encourage, shepherd and lead others inspired her to branch out into teaching, speaking, leading worship, and performing other events.

Bren has been a private vocal coach for 24 years, teaching students ranging in age from 6 to 66. She has served as a speaker or worship leader for events at Highland Park Presbyterian Church, Park Cities Presbyterian Church, Northwest Bible Church, UT Southwestern Medical School, Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, Trinity Christian Academy, Leadership Formation International, Fellowship of Christian Women, & Dallas Theological Seminary.

She served at Northwest Bible Church as a Worship Leader for 13 years and served as the Choir and Vocal Director there for 6 of those years.

While Bren continues to enjoy speaking and singing at different events, as well as teaching voice lessons, she has added yet another title to her list! She is enjoying her 9th season as a Personal Cabi Stylist. As you’ll hear from her, she never dreamed that “personal stylist” would be a title on her resume, but she is so grateful she followed the Lord’s nudging to say yes to that. She is enjoying every moment of this unexpected, soul-filling, joy-giving opportunity to connect with and serve women right where they are.

Bren’s story is one of enduring sickness and health, experiencing heartache and joy, and facing uncertainty with an unchanging, unmovable, FAITHFUL God. Whether it’s through her music, her words, or her cabi clothing, Bren’s mission is to help women to find joy, beauty and strength not only in WHO they are, but also in WHOSE they are… peace by piece.

Connect With Bren 

Instagram:@peace.by.piece

Website: Bren Jones Cabi 

Verses

Psalm 40:1-4 "I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear the Lord and put their trust in him. Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, who does not look to the proud, to those who turn aside to false gods."

2 Corinthians 10:5 "We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ."

Isaiah 55:11 "so My word that comes from My mouth will not return to Me empty, but it will accomplish what I please and will prosper in what I send it to do.” 

2 Timothy 1:7 "For God has not given us a spirit of fearfulness, but one of power, love, and sound judgment"

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Nov 12, 2019

Sometimes chaos comes into our lives in the form of a sudden and devastating event. We know a heartbreaking event can throw a life into chaos in an instant. Maybe you lost your job, your home or a loved one. It looks different for each of us, but we have all experienced some kind of tragedy in our lives. Neisha Byrd is no stranger to heartbreak as she has lost both of her husband and son. In today’s episode, Neisha shares her story of loss and how she chooses to continue to live a full life despite her pain. We can all learn something about how to navigate the chaos of loss through Neisha’s story. We know loss can feel so isolating, but know you aren’t alone.

Neisha Byrd was born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin lived there for nine years. Then moved to Illinois for seven years.  In 1983 with her parents she moved to Dallas, Texas. Where she attended College and worked alongside her parents in their family business.

Neisha has a divine gift of nurturing and has spent the last 19 years supporting the staff and being “School Mom” to the students, as Administrative Assistant at Trinity Christian School in Cedar Hill, Texas for nineteen years.

Neisha is a champion for Transformation and works tirelessly to be an example on how to live out the Word of God on a daily basis. Her mission is to empower others  to see themselves loved by the Father and walk out their full potential in God. She has traveled as far as Scotland and India sharing her life story.

Neisha was the devoted wife of Wendell Byrd(2018) for over 26 years and loving mother of  Cameron(2015) and Cailyn her 23 year old daughter ACU graduate She currently resides in DeSoto, Texas.

Connect With Neisha

Instagram: @mabyrd17

Website: www.neishabyrd.com

Links From The Show 

Hope Mansion Dancing with the Stars 

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Nov 7, 2019

Resilience. Sometimes a part of remaining unmoved in chaos is remaining resilient in the face of a devastating event or daily turmoil. In today’s episode, our guest Lucy Gore shares her story of immigrating to the United States and how God was present as she created a home in a new country despite the many challenges she faced. Let us tell you that every part of Lucy Gore’s story embodies resilience in spite of hardship and reliance on a God who saw her even when she was alone with tears streaming down her face. The best news? The same God who saw Lucy everyday sees and loves you too. 

Lucy's parents moved her and her sisters from Mexico to Texas in July 1995. Shortly after they arrived they were told her parents were getting a divorce. They were not on vacation (as every summer before!) but they were here to stay. Lucy enrolled in high school as a freshman knowing zero English. 4 years later she graduated top 3% of her class. Lucy was accepted to Texas A&M and given a scholarship, unfortunately she could not attend since she did not have a social security #. She ended up going to Mountain View College while she worked to pay for school.

After a few jobs here and there, Lucy joined Edward Jones in 2011, opening her practice in Farmers Branch. She is an active member of the community. Lucy started a charity run in 2005 that collects toys for children at local hospitals. She is an marathon runner and a self-proclaimed triathlete. Lucy currently serve on the Board of Directors for Metrocrest Services.

Lucy lives in Farmers Branch with her husband and 2 crazy daughters, a 5 and a 2 year old.

Connect With Lucy

Instagram: @_lucyg_

Vereses

James 1:2-4 "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."

 

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Nov 5, 2019

Do you ever feel like quitting when things seem completely overwhelming and confusing? You aren’t alone. The reality is that we all have chaos and confusion in our lives. Our relationships and circumstances are in constant flux which often leaves us grasping for stability in some part of our lives. Trust us. Our guest today, @jessiccahonegger, knows what chaos and confusion feels like on a deeply personal level. In today’s episode, Jessica shares about how she has navigated unexpected personal and professional chaos in what was supposed to be a year of pure success. And yet, despite all of the unexpected craziness, Jessica didn’t give up. You’ll feel like Jessica is right there with you as she graciously tells us how to find peace in the midst of the chaos of our lives. 

Jessica Honegger is an award-winning social entrepreneur and author of the book Imperfect Courage: Live a Life of Purpose by Leaving Comfort and Going Scared. Honegger is the founder and co-CEO of Noonday Collection, a fast-growing social impact fashion brand dedicated to designing and selling an inspired collection of jewelry and accessories made by Artisans in vulnerable communities across the globe. By harnessing a passionate community of social entrepreneurs called Ambassadors who sell Noonday’s accessories at Trunk Shows in their communities, Noonday sustains dignified jobs for over 4,500 Artisans. Noonday Collection was featured in Inc. magazine’s 2015 list of the 5,000 fastest growing companies in America at number 45. In 2017, Honegger was awarded the Ernst and Young Entrepreneur of the Year for Central Texas. When Imperfect Courage was released in 2018, it ranked in the top 50 on Amazon, and at #24 on the Publisher’s Weekly list for non-fiction books.

Connect With Jessica 

Instagram: @jessicahonegger

Website: www.jessiccahonegger.com

Links From The Show 

Noonday Collection 

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Oct 31, 2019

Jessica Rimmer, PhD, has worked in leadership development for over 15 years. As an executive leader, she has given oversight to strategic growth and culture initiatives that improve the engagement and energy of people within the workplace. Dr. Rimmer current serves as a Senior Consultant at GiANT Worldwide, a global content and leadership development company. Prior to GiANT, Dr. Rimmer served as the Vice President for Student Engagement and Success/Corporate Trainer for Mid-America Christian University for a decade. Her work includes w building leadership academy that helped define and distinguish the culture of that organization, helping to drive growth and outcomes. Both her experience and education bolster her ability to help companies analyze their needs and craft unique solutions to address business challenges.

Jessica received her Bachelor’s degree from Oklahoma Baptist University from the College of Fine Arts. She went on to earn her Master’s in Adult and Higher Education from the University of Oklahoma She also has an earned doctorate in Higher Education Leadership from OU. As a researcher and practitioner, she has studied how leadership influences student retention and engagement.

Jessica has served as a speaker on topics such as strategic growth, cultural diversity, transformational leadership and personal success. She is passionate about helping people live with purpose and influence. 

Jessica lives in Edmond with her husband Terry and their three children Myles (7), Maris (4), and Marg

Connect With Jessica 

Instagram: @jlrimmer

Verses:

1 John 4:7-10 " Dear friends, let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. 10 This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins."

Links From The Show 

 

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Oct 31, 2019

Abby Hatteberg- Wife to Luke Hatteberg, mama of two little ladies, and Dallas native. Former 4th Grade teacher and Italy dweller, my husband and I started our business, Wayfaren, as a creative outlet in 2012 and became what we like to call accidental entrepreneurs from there. We specialize in high quality, handcrafted keepsakes and have equal parts a love/crazy relationship with working with each other. I spend most of my days hanging out with my built in besities Everlee (4) and Colette (2), running Wayfaren from my bedroom during the naptime hustle, sneaking in time as a proud better beauty advocate with BeautyCounter, and soaking up some time in the Word outside with latte in hand. My happy place in is the first pages of a good book, an impromptu picnic at the park with my crew, wandering the streets of Europe, or dreaming up our next home design project.

Connect With Abby 

Instagram: @abbyhatt

Verses:

Galatians 6:2 "Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ."

Psalm 42:9 "I say to God my Rock, “Why have you forgotten me?
Why must I go about mourning, oppressed by the enemy?” My bones suffer mortal agony as my foes taunt me, saying to me all day long, “Where is your God?” Why, my soul, are you downcast?Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God."

Links From The Show 

 @wayfarenco

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Oct 29, 2019

The future is female.✨
.
.
Have you heard this phrase before? In 2019, you’ve likely heard it A LOT. Women are standing their ground, taking their place, leaning into their callings, and believing that their contribution to society and the kingdom is absolutely necessary. And although we support women taking their place with with confidence and conviction, we believe that the future isn’t JUST female; the future is male AND female. Kelli Masters talks about this same idea and why it’s important to work together with our brother’s in Christ. She eloquently told us that she believes the future involves men and women working together to achieve a goal. We couldn’t agree more. Kelli is poised, articulate, and grounded in the work she’s doing. We are humbled that she’d share her story and insight with us. Our HQ team expounds on what Kelli’s story meant to them and why her message is valuable to all women serving anywhere in any capacity. 

Recognized as one of the most influential women in sports business, Kelli Masters often hears, "You have a DREAM JOB." But she chooses to inspire others not with her successes, but with her vulnerability, sharing not only the victories but also the battles and failures along the way. Kelli is an attorney, an NFL sports agent and Founder and President of KMM Sports, a full-service sports management company based in Oklahoma City.

Kelli has represented more professional athletes than any woman in the industry, having served as agent/contract advisor to players in every NFL draft since 2006 as well as numerous athletes in the MLB draft and the Olympics. In 2010, she made history as the first woman to represent a Top 5 pick in the NFL Draft (#3 overall). Her story of progress through pain was featured as part of Motrin's national "Women in Progress" campaign in 2017.

Kelli is a former National and World Champion baton twirler, and was also Miss Oklahoma 1997, winning awards for talent and community service at the Miss America pageant that year. Currently, Kelli serves as an Adjunct Professor at Oklahoma City University and Oklahoma Christian University, teaching Sports Law. She is a sought-after writer and speaker on topics of sports and nonprofit as well as leadership, diversity and discovering purpose in life.

Today's episode is sponsored by Mom's Best Friend. MBF has been serving the Dallas/Ft.Worth metroplex in the Nanny/Household & staffing industry for 20 years. They place highly vetted and trained Nannies and Household staff in homes. Call the Mom's Best Friend office today and mention that you heard about them on the Polished Podcast to receive 10% off your placement fee. You can call them at: 972-446-0500 or email Lindsay Rose at lindsay.rose@momsbestfriend.com

Connect With Kelli

Instagram: @kellimasters 

Verses:

1 Peter 4:10-11 "Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ."

Micah 6:8 "act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."

Links From The Show 

Carolyn Custis James 

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Oct 24, 2019

Hope. Sometimes it just doesn’t feel possible does it? In the midst of an unexpected diagnosis, devastating loss, daily loneliness or broken relationship, having hope can seem hopeless. We all want it but sometimes we just aren’t sure if it is really possible.  If you are wondering how to even begin to have hope in the midst of difficulty or how to share your hope with others, you will love today’s episode with Dr. Camille Gray. Dr. Gray’s life radiates hope but don’t think she hasn’t experienced the depths of suffering. Dr. Gray’s story shows how God really can meet us in our pain and show us a way through life despite the trials we will all encounter. The conversation doesn’t end there though as our HQ team discusses what hope really means and how we can all fight for it in our own lives.

“When I was five years old. I wanted to be a nun. “– Dr. Camille Gray

As an author, speaker, educator and entrepreneur, Dr. Camille Gray endeavors to inspire women and young girls to be all that God has called them to be.

Dr. Gray is the Executive Director of Hope Mansion, a residential maternity home located in Cedar Hill, Texas.

“Every day I have the honor and privilege of welcoming women “home”; providing them with safe haven as they await the birth of their baby. Pregnancy brings a woman to Hope Mansion; Hope makes the journey a bit easier.”

Dr. Gray has written several poetry collections and daily devotionals, numerous essays and blog content, using her voice to give voice to others. Her latest book, “Affairs of the Heart”, is a 21-day devotional which guides the reader to an understanding of God’s intimate, personal and profound love for every person on the planet.

Dr. Gray travels around the U.S. speaking primarily to women and girls of every walk of life. Her ministry outreaches include, COFFEE (Camille’s Outreach for Fellowship, Encouragement and Evangelism) and Resolution Restart. Both endeavors deliver inspiration, education, encouragement and motivation to individuals and groups.

Dr. Gray is a certified Lead Community Chaplain, owns a publishing company (CQuill Books) and a skin care consulting company; provides creative, technical and academic writing classes; provides consulting services to emerging writers, offers tutoring services for divergent learners, and offers Christian counselling to children and adults in crisis.

Today's episode is sponsored by Mom's Best Friend. MBF has been serving the Dallas/Ft.Worth metroplex in the Nanny/Household & staffing industry for 20 years. They place highly vetted and trained Nannies and Household staff in homes. Call the Mom's Best Friend office today and mention that you heard about them on the Polished Podcast to receive 10% off your placement fee. You can call them at: 972-446-0500 or email Lindsay Rose at lindsay.rose@momsbestfriend.com

 

Verses:

Romans 8:22 "For we know that all creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time."

Romans 15:13 "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope."

Links From The Show 

Hope Mansion

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Oct 15, 2019

Did you know our theme for the month of October is women supporting women? Let’s be real. Our lives are far from perfect and all it takes is one look on social media or at a sliver of our friends’ lives for comparison and competition to set in. But it doesn’t need to be that way. We need each other! Not only is there enough space for each of us, but we can lift up the other women around us. Today’s guest, Trang Green, totally embodies the selfless and determined character of someone crushing it at supporting women in her community. You will want to go get in your peoples’ corners after listening to her share about the impact women have when they give of themselves and what they have to love and care for other women in their lives. Let’s be known for supporting the women in our lives and communities with all we have. 

Alisa Trang Green is the Founder and Chairwoman of the Dress for Success Oklahoma City affiliate. Trang has been working in the nonprofit sector for numerous years. Some of her expertise range from fundraising, spreading community awareness, advocating for women and relationship building with at-risk individuals. Her passion for helping others started when her family immigrated to the United States from Vietnam to seek the American Dream. She grew up in the Oklahoma City community where philanthropy played a big role in her upbringing. She feels a responsibility to repay the community for what they have done for her and her family’s life. That responsibility has grown into a love for the individuals working to break the cycle of poverty or hardship. Trang has always lived with the philanthropy philosophy of, “Why work to make other people rich, when you should be working to enrich others.”

Trang graduated from the University of Central Oklahoma with a Bachelor’s in Corporate Communications in 2008. While pursuing her bachelor’s degree, she was active in a total of 26 organizations on campus while still mentoring inner-city school students in her spare time. Recently, Trang was awarded the University of Central Oklahoma Distinguished Alumni Award in 2018.

During that time, Trang was also a former Miss Asian UCO and 4th runner-up in national Miss Vietnam USA. Pageantry gave her a platform to reach and influence young woman both locally and nationally. Before starting her own nonprofit, Trang assisted in running a nonprofit clinic for individuals with neuromuscular disease as well as directing a free wheel-chair adaptable summer camp for the pediatric patients at the clinic.

She is a believer in second chances and serves on numerous nonprofit boards in Oklahoma City. Trang is also fluent in Vietnamese. In her spare time she enjoys being active in ministry, reading, writing, traveling and spending time with her husband, director Brent Ryan Green, and two daughters. She is looking forward to equipping and empowering the women in Oklahoma City to achieve their own American Dream.

Today's episode is sponsored by Mom's Best Friend. MBF has been serving the Dallas/Ft.Worth metroplex in the Nanny/Household & staffing industry for 20 years. They place highly vetted and trained Nannies and Household staff in homes. Call the Mom's Best Friend office today and mention that you heard about them on the Polished Podcast to receive 10% off your placement fee. You can call them at: 972-446-0500 or email Lindsay Rose at lindsay.rose@momsbestfriend.com

Connect With Trang:

Instagram: @trangalisagreen

Verses:

Micah 6:8 "O people, the Lord has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God"

Mark 12:42-45 "Then a poor widow came and dropped in two small coins. Jesus called his disciples to him and said, “I tell you the truth, this poor widow has given more than all the others who are making contributions. For they gave a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she had to live on."

Links From The Show 

Dress for Success 

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Oct 10, 2019

We don’t have to look very far to see the injustice in the world do we? We see it on the news and in our very own lives every day. Things are not right in this world and the problems are usually very complicated. It is so easy to just try and shut it all out isn’t it? Add the seemingly radical ideas of grace, forgiveness and mercy to the situation and it's more than enough to feel stuck. Today’s episode will help you move forward as Jessica Foster shares how compassion fuels her work to fight for justice and mercy daily in her law career. Let us tell you. We can all learn something about how to bring more love and justice into the world from Jessica and the stories she shares. Our HQ team continues to break these topics down and shares how we can tangibly speak up for the voiceless from a place of compassion in our own lives.

Jessica is a native of Detroit, Michigan where she was born and raised. Jessica attended college at Columbia University in New York City where she obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science. While at Columbia, she served as President and Political Chair of the Black Students Organization. She worked in civil rights litigation before pursuing her dream of becoming a lawyer. Jessica attended law school at Temple University in Philadelphia, PA where she was actively involved as President of the Black Law Students Association. While at Temple, Jessica led a weekly campus bible study for law students. She also founded a campus ministry, which featured monthly prayer walks and dinner/discussion events.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
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Following her graduation from Temple Law, Jessica worked as an Assistant District Attorney in the Philadelphia DA’s Office and Assistant City Attorney in Lawton, Oklahoma. Jessica currently serves as an Assistant District Attorney in the Oklahoma County District Attorney's Office in Oklahoma City. She is passionate about the word of God, justice, leadership and women’s ministry. Jessica is married to Rev. Larry Foster II and is a member of Progressive Baptist Church, Oklahoma City.

Today's episode is sponsored by Mom's Best Friend. MBF has been serving the Dallas/Ft.Worth metroplex in the Nanny/Household & staffing industry for 20 years. They place highly vetted and trained Nannies and Household staff in homes. Call the Mom's Best Friend office today and mention that you heard about them on the Polished Podcast to receive 10% off your placement fee. You can call them at: 972-446-0500 or email Lindsay Rose at lindsay.rose@momsbestfriend.com

 

Verses:

Proverbs 31:8-9 "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; ensure justice for those being crushed. Yes, speak up for the poor and helpless, and see that they get justice."

2 Corinthians 5:17-19 "This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun! And all of this is a gift from God, who brought us back to himself through Christ. And God has given us this task of reconciling people to him. For God was in Christ, reconciling the world to himself, no longer counting people’s sins against them. And he gave us this wonderful message of reconciliation."

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Oct 8, 2019

Have you ever looked at your life and wondered how you ended up where you are? Maybe you have switched industries, you are going back to school to study an entirely new subject a decade later or are just getting started in our career and don’t know what you want to do for the rest of your life. We know it can be really stressful or overwhelming to go through many different changes our personal and professional lives will go through over time. Our guest in today’s episode totally understands. Leigh has worked in politics, medical sales and now owns her own small jewelry business after being a stay at home mom for several years. Leigh’s story about how she has navigated the many changes in her life to pursue her different passions is so encouraging. You don’t want to miss hearing Leigh change our often limited definition of creativity to one that emcompasses the different strains of creativity within each of us. Our HQ team picks up right where Leigh left off and discusses how we often have a very limited view of what our work and calling should like and how we can find a better way to integrate the many parts of our lives.

"I was the nine-year-old selling rope bracelets on the neighborhood golf course. I was the high school sophomore beading necklaces for friends. I was the co-ed hosting jewelry shows in my dorm room. Crafting interesting, accessible jewelry has followed me through my lifetime. 

Today, I am thankful to serve a creative God. I am thankful to get to produce what pours out of my soul.  I am thankful for my supportive, loving husband and three amazing children. I am thankful for the gift of creativity and the opportunity to pass it on to my loyal customers.

I will always be open to new ideas, new styles and new methods. Hungering and hunting. Combining and creating. Jewelry should be a conversation starter, a mark of personality, something that speaks to you. I am inspired by nature. Inspired by cultures. Inspired by my God."

Today's episode is sponsored by Mom's Best Friend. MBF has been serving the Dallas/Ft.Worth metroplex in the Nanny/Household & staffing industry for 20 years. They place highly vetted and trained Nannies and Household staff in homes. Call the Mom's Best Friend office today and mention that you heard about them on the Polished Podcast to receive 10% off your placement fee. You can call them at: 972-446-0500 or email Lindsay Rose at lindsay.rose@momsbestfriend.com

Connect With Leigh

Instagram: @leighbreunigdesigns

Website: Leighbreunigdesigns.com

Verses:

Psalm 8 

Links From The Show 

 

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Sep 26, 2019

Is it okay to take time to rest and still put in the hours in our professional and personal lives? Will everything in my life fall apart if I do? We know it can seem impossible or even wrong to stop the never-ending hustle and make time to rest our bodies and minds. Our temptation to keep going can lead to burnout for many of us though. We see it in our work, relationships and physical and mental health. Something needs to change if we want to continue to be healthy and give our all to the things that matter most to us. Today’s guest, Paula McDade, is a great example of how to practice true self-care while continuing to serve well and crush it at work. She is meeting needs and serving in her community while also taking care of herself and making time to rest. The result? She is in a healthy place to give her best effort in all areas of her life. Later in the episode, our HQ team shares their take on the idea of self care and how they practice rest in their own busy lives. 

Paula McDade is the author, licensed minister and her work is currently featured on You Version the Bible app, an international digital platform reaching millions of readers daily. She is sought after in the speaking and business arena as a creative visionary who also has a heart for people from all walks of life. If that’s is not enough, she also works at Succeeding At Work which is a nonprofit organization that helps with employment readiness skills to youth in the juvenile detention system in Dallas County.

Today's episode is sponsored by Mom's Best Friend. MBF has been serving the Dallas/Ft.Worth metroplex in the Nanny/Household & staffing industry for 20 years. They place highly vetted and trained Nannies and Household staff in homes. Call the Mom's Best Friend office today and mention that you heard about them on the Polished Podcast to receive 10% off your placement fee. You can call them at: 972-446-0500 or email Lindsay Rose at lindsay.rose@momsbestfriend.com

Connect With Paula  

Instagram: @officialpaulamcdade

Website: www.paulamcdade.com

Verses:

Revelation 12:11 "And they have defeated him by the blood of the Lamb and by their testimony."

Links From The Show 

No More Holding Back 

Brilliant Awakening 

The Next Right Thing with Emily P. Freeman Podcast 

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Sep 24, 2019

Have you ever had a DTR conversation with a friend? While it still might be common to have a conversation where you define the relationship with someone you are dating, it is not necessarily a thing many of us do in our friendships. Lindsay and Lyndan didn’t let that stop them from having their own DTR convo though. These two unlikely friends are breaking the mold  with their authentic friendship and we love it. Lindsay and Lyndan have so much to say about how to build and maintain a safe and deep friendship in today’s episode. You really don’t want to miss out on hearing their inspiring friendship story today!

Lindsay is a coach’s wife, twin mom, and the Director of Development & Operations for Polished Ministries. She is passionate about the work she gets to do! With a bachelor’s degree in writing and a minor in theology from the University of Sioux Falls in Sioux Falls, SD, Lindsay loves that she gets to combine her skills with her work in a meaningful way.

Like many of her peers post-graduation, Lindsay struggled to find a job. She had the degree, but lacked the experience most employers wanted. After working as a personal nanny for two years and an administrative assistant at her church for several years after that, she made a transition home to care for her first baby. It didn't take long for Lindsay to realize God calling her to re-enter the workplace & serve her peers through Polished alongside Kat. She loves being a mom AND getting to work for an organization she deeply believes in.

When Lindsay isn't working, spending time with her husband, or caring for her little people (which is almost never), Lindsay enjoys reading alone, being outside, and time with her dearest friends! Lindsay and Tony live in Dallas, TX, with their 4 littles (3, 2, & 1-year-old twins).

Born and raised in Texas twig towns, Lyndan has a passion for helping others and working behind the scenes. Starting as the mail girl for a large corporation, she has braved business coaching, served as an executive assistant, and is currently Operations Manager at PyxisCare Management. 

Outside of the office, Lyndan thrives when counseling Christian teens every summer and winter break in central Texas, getting to grow with her church family in Arlington, and asking hard questions. Joining Polished Fort Worth was the perfect outlet for pouring into others while creating deep and meaningful connections to do life well - together. 

On any given evening, you can find her knee-deep in discussion with her small-group Bible study or exploring downtown Fort Worth for local food shops. She also appreciates the value of a quiet night in, cozied up with a good book, coffee in hand. She dreams of a day when I-35 is free of construction, all cars are equipped with seat warmers, and Hallmark holiday movies are acceptable year round.

Today's episode is sponsored by Mom's Best Friend. MBF has been serving the Dallas/Ft.Worth metroplex in the Nanny/Household & staffing industry for 20 years. They place highly vetted and trained Nannies and Household staff in homes. Call the Mom's Best Friend office today and mention that you heard about them on the Polished Podcast to receive 10% off your placement fee. You can call them at: 972-446-0500 or email Lindsay Rose at lindsay.rose@momsbestfriend.com

Connect With Lindsay

Instagram: @lindsay_benedetto

Connect With Lyndan

Instagram: @itsmelyndie

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Sep 19, 2019

Why does it take a moment of desperation to send us to our knees in prayer? Sadly, it’s true. The thing is, God is always accessible, hears our prayers no matter how broken, and he wants to see good things happen in our lives. We can approach him anytime we need help, not just when we are desperate. As we talk to Debreon Davis about building authentic community we realized that part of growing a community of people we can love and love us in return will necessitate prayer. God, bring us the right women in our lives.

Debreon Davis is currently the principal at Edmond North High School. Debreon grew up in Edmond, Oklahoma and attended college at Evangel University in Springfield, Missouri and the University of Central Oklahoma where she played basketball and studied Psychology. After graduating from college she went back to her high school alma mater, Edmond Santa Fe High School, where she taught Business classes, coached girls basketball and was the student council sponsor. During this time Debreon was also active with her church, serving as a sponsor for the youth group and children's ministry. Debreon then became an Assistant Principal at Memorial High School where she worked for 5 years with various grade levels, building strong relationships with students and teachers with a strong focus on curriculum development. Debreon started volunteering with YoungLife and developed numerous relationships mentoring young ladies throughout their high school and college years. Debreon is now in her third year as the head principal at Edmond North High School, doing what she loves the most - leading and loving our teenagers. Debreon and her family are active members of the Edmond and Oklahoma City community and believe in the importance of servant leadership. Debreon went through the OKC SALLT Young Leaders class in 2017-2018 and cherished the relationships built and challenge to love and serve our community. In 2017 Debreon was the recipient of the National Milken Educator Award, known as the “Oscars of Teaching”. This award is unique in that educators do not apply for or know when they have been nominated, the Milken Foundation finds its candidates and surprises them in school assemblies across the nation each year. Earlier this year, Debreon received the President's Award from the Edmond Public Schools Foundation for her commitment to excellence in education and high levels of learning for all students. Debreon is a women who is passionate about life and the importance of loving everyone we encounter.

Today's episode is sponsored by Mom's Best Friend. MBF has been serving the Dallas/Ft.Worth metroplex in the Nanny/Household & staffing industry for 20 years. They place highly vetted and trained Nannies and Household staff in homes. Call the Mom's Best Friend office today and mention that you heard about them on the Polished Podcast to receive 10% off your placement fee. You can call them at: 972-446-0500 or email Lindsay Rose at lindsay.rose@momsbestfriend.com

Connect With Debreon  

Twitter: @DebreonDavis

Links From The Show 

Walter Brueggeman: Sabbath as Resistance 

Sacred Rhythms by Ruth Haley Barton

Emily P. Freeman's Podcast 

Verses:

Hebrews 4:12 "For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires."

1 Timothy 1:12 "I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength to do his work. He considered me trustworthy and appointed me to serve him"

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Sep 17, 2019

Have you ever felt lonely despite being surrounded by tons of people? Maybe you are sitting at your desk with co-workers all around you, in the middle of happy hour with friends, or cooking dinner for your family and you have that moment where you just feel alone. We are rarely ever physically alone in today’s hyper-connected world and yet, we often feel like we are missing out on the meaningful connections that make us feel seen, heard and loved. Craving connection with those around her, Kristin Schell built a community at a turquoise table right in her front yard. Her story will encourage you to build authentic relationships and show up for others right where you are. You’ll also catch up with our HQ team later on in the episode and hear how some of their closest friends have showed up for them throughout their lives.

Kristin Schell is on a mission to love her neighbors. She put a picnic table in her front yard, painted it turquoise, and began inviting neighbors, friends, and even strangers, to hang out and do life together at The Turquoise Table. 

A new concept of hospitality unfolded in her neighborhood, and before long The Turquoise Table led to a movement of Front Yard People—ordinary people who long to create community right where they live.

Today there are thousands of Turquoise Tables all across America from California to Maine. In all fifty states and thirteen countries, Turquoise Tables have become a symbol of hospitality, a safe place to sit down and connect over a cup of coffee or glass of sweet tea.

As founder of the Turquoise Table and Front Yard People movement, Kristin travels the country speaking at conferences and events with an encouraging word on how to open our lives and homes to others. She lives in Austin, Texas, with her husband, Tony, and their four children.

Kristin’s book The Turquoise Table: Finding Community and Connection in Your Own Front Yard (HarperCollins Christian Publishing) is available where ever books are sold.

Connect With Kristin 

Instagram: @kristinkschell

Website: theturquoisetable.com

Verses:

Mark 12:31 "The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.”

Links from the show:

Sacred Companions: The Gift of Spiritual Friendship Direction by David Brenner 

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