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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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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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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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, 3 because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. 4 Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."
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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
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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."
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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. 8 Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. 9 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."
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The future is female.✨
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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
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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."
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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."
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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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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
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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
The Next Right Thing with Emily P. Freeman Podcast
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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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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
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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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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Starting a Polished chapter in your area
Is the Bible really relevant today? This is a real question for many of us in a world that can seem very different than the one the Bible was written in. And even if we do believe its relevant, many of us have a complicated relationship with the Bible and maybe even those who say they love it. If these questions resonate with you, you will not want to miss today’s episode with Lauren McAfee. Lauren has dedicated much of her life to researching why people, especially millennials, feel disconnected from the Bible and why it really is relevant today. That’s right. The Bible really is applicable in our current lives. Later on in the episode, our HQ team shares why they believe the Bible is relevant in their own lives.
Lauren Green McAfee works at the Hobby Lobby corporate office, and is the author of Only One Life (Zondervan, 2018) and Not What You Think (Zondervan, 2019). She is a speaker, connector, and coffee enthusiast and is currently pursuing a PhD in Ethics and Public Policy with Dr. Russell Moore as her supervisor.
Prior to her role with Hobby Lobby, Lauren worked for her father Steve Green as he founded Museum of the Bible in Washington, DC. During her time at the Museum, she served as Curator, Artifact Collection Manager, and Director of Community Engagement. While working at Museum of the Bible, Lauren finished two graduate degrees; a Master of Arts in pastoral counseling and a Master of Arts in theological studies. Lauren and her husband Michael live in Oklahoma City and enjoy reading and traveling together.
Connect With Lauren
Instagram: @laurenamcafee
Website: laurenamcafee
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Do you ever wonder how to be authentic on social media? Let’s be honest. Social media and authenticity do not typically go together. In a world where we simply show a highly filtered highlight reel, the full story of our lives is often tucked far away from the Instagram world. And yet, sometimes we want to break through the curated scroll of perfection and show a little more of our true selves. Today’s guest, Chandler Hatchett felt this very desire and to her surprise, her authenticity resonated with her followers more than her typical posts. Chandler even found her online community to be a real sense of support through hard times in her life. Her take on our September theme of building authentic community will give you some hope in the often crazy world of social media. Wonder how what being authentic on social media looks like for you? Yeah, us too! Thankfully, Kat, Lindsay and Feleceia discuss what our relationship with being authentic on social media can look like as young professional women.
Chandler is an author, speaker and blogger here in Dallas, TX. She is also the founder and editor in chief of The H is For..., a media center and lifestyle brand that serves to encourage, inspire and equip women to live well in all aspects of life. Chandler believes that faith and wellness go hand in hand and is passionate about the modern woman and equipping her to be the best version of herself. She’s the author of A Proverb A Day - a month long devotional through the book of Proverbs, and her upcoming devotional 'Outfit of the Day - 40 Days of Getting Dressed in Truth' launches in October. Her favorite roles, however, are wife to Franklin and mom to Brooks (4) and Ainsley (1).
Connect With Chandler
Instagram: @chandler.hatchett
Website: thehisfor
Links From The Show
The Christian Life is the lifelong practice of attending to the details of congruence—congruence b/w ends and means, congruence b/w what we do and the way we do it, congruence b/w what is written in the scripture and our living out what is written, congruence b/w the a ship and it’s prow, congruence b/w preaching and living, congruence b/w sermon and what is lived in both preacher and congregation, the congruence of the word made flesh in Jesus with what is lived in our flesh.” Eugene Peterson, As kingfishers catch fire
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Have you ever thought about what makes a really good friend? We all want them! But sometimes it can just be hard to know what to look for in a friendship. That’s why we are so grateful Dani shares about what she looks for in a friend and how her community keeps showing up for her in the midst of hard decisions. As a single mom, Dani knows how important it is to have strong and authentic relationships in her life. Later in the episode, Lindsay and Feleceia join Kat to talk about the friends in their lives who tell them the hard truth about themselves or a situation. We know. Those conversations are not the most fun to have with our closest friends, but they can sure be super helpful for us and our growth. You really don’t want to miss this episode on what authentic friendships really look like!
Dani is an HR Manager where she leads the recruiting, employee engagement and retention initiatives for hourly team members. A native New Yorker who calls Houston home, Dani is passionate about serving deep in her community. She co-leads a Be the Bridge group that is dedicated to advocating and promoting diversity, inclusion, racial justice, restoration and reconciliation. She recently strapped on her boots and volunteers with the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, HR Houston Gives Back, as well as her church family, Bayou City Fellowship. When Dani first attended Polished as a guest, she remembered feeling an instant connection to exploring life, faith and work with a diverse group of professional women. Thrilled to dive in, Dani is now serving as the Co-Director of Polished Houston – Inner Loop with Kelsey and could not be more excited. Dani is a Mom to Ethan, the coolest teenager she knows, an avid curator of good music, and a traveler. At any given time she can be found searching for coffee, tacos, a place to hike and the score of the game.
Connect with Dani
Instagram: @dani_gantt
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We know. EVERYONE is talking about the Enneagram. Maybe you are about all things enneagram or maybe you are ready to roll your eyes if someone even dares to bring it up one more time. In the midst of all of the enneagram buzz, Jenn’s perspective on using the Enneagram as a tool for gaining clarity in your professional relationships is both insightful and refreshing. And let’s be real. Who doesn’t need some practical advice for how to have stronger and more peaceful relationships with our co-workers and all of the other important people in our lives? Jenn’s conversation with Kat will help you understand the Enneagram in new ways and maybe even redeem it for you if you are totally over it.
Jett is a dreamer, a doer and a champion of risk takers. When she is not running her design business, she is encouraging & unleashing women through a gathering she hosts twice a year in Colorado called Camp Well – a place where dreamers and doers who are weary and overwhelmed can come and be reminded of who God created them to be, and walk confidently in their calling. Think summer camp for adults! Her personal story is one of redemption and hope and her desire is that through that story others would find freedom.
Her discovery and understanding of the Enneagram, in light of Gods Word, has been a powerful tool in her life that has helped her uncover and find confidence in her true God designed self.
Connect with Jenn
Instagram: @jenn_jett
Website: Jennjett.com
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Has someone ever said something hurtful to you that just totally reflected your own insecurity? We have sure been there. We all have our own inner critic. You know what we are talking about. It is the little voice that tells you that you aren’t good enough for that raise, you aren’t pretty enough or that you are unlovable. All it takes it for someone to give that inner critic outside affirmation and you can suddenly end up spiraling downward. No one understands this cycle more than Nicoletta Bradley. In this episode, Nicoletta shares with Kat how one hurtful comment about her weight gave the lies she told herself enough power to derail her life with disordered eating. But her story doesn’t end there. Nicoletta’s story about how she changed her mindset about her body and learned to love herself exactly as she is will give you hope in your own life. The wisdom doesn’t stop there though. Our very own Lindsay Benedetto and Felecia Benton pop in with Kat to share their perspectives on Nicoletta’s powerful story and how our words really do have the power to impact peoples’ lives. We can fight our inner critic and the lies we tell ourselves when we celebrate and honor who God created us to be. Today remember that you are enough and you are deeply loved.
Nicoletta Bradley was born and raised in Santa Barbara, CA, and now lives in Fort Worth, Texas. After graduating from TCU with a degree in Communications and Psychology she discovered a passion for fitness and motivational speaking. She is a full-time fitness instructor working at Zyn22 as a cycle instructor as well as a personal trainer that leads boot camps in the DFW area. After recovering from a 12-year eating disorder, Nicoletta's biggest passion is encouraging women to love their body and love their lives. She believes that until you love your body where it is now, you won't love it ten pounds lighter. Her goal in life is to encourage and motivate women to accept and love what they see in the mirror rather than hate it.
Verses:
Connect with Nicoletta
Instagram: @nicolettabradley
Website: Nicolettabradley.com
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Why do Christians struggle to talk about alcohol? Yes, we just went there. Don’t worry though. This episode is not about alcohol abstinence or rules. It is about having a conversation that is taboo in church and finding freedom in having a mindful approach to every area of our lives. Kat’s conversations with Jenn Kautsch of Sober Minded Sis and our very own Lindsay Benedetto and Feleceia Benton remove all of the stigma around this conversation and creates a safe place to have a healthy conversation about this typically hot topic. So let’s change the conversation! Instead of letting alcohol be such a loaded topic in church settings, join our healthy conversation about mindfulness in every area of our life.
Verses:
1 Peter 5:8 “Be alert and of sober mind”
Galatians 5:1 “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free”
Connect with Jenn
Instagram: @sobersis
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In the latest episode, Kat chats with Jen Smith about co-founding a non-profit consulting business with her husband, building a community and Polished Austin. In a world where loneliness feels all too common, Jen’s story about building friendships and loving others is so encouraging.
Jen Smith is the President and Co-Founder of Taft Advisory Group, a consulting company based in Austin that works with social enterprise, business as mission, and non-profit organizations. Jen is originally from Arlington, Texas and attended Texas A&M University where she received a degree in Marketing and International Business. Since college, Jen has had a variety of careers that have led her to where she is today. She worked in the White House for several years after graduation, then worked in non-profits and development events, and eventually moved into the field of education. After receiving her Masters in International Education from Harvard, she moved back to Texas to be closer to family and friends and started her consulting company. Jen loves living in Austin, traveling, cooking, hosting people in her home, and spending time with her husband, two children, and golden retriever.
In our latest episode, Kat talks with Nikki Lawrence about how a community of faith can support us through big changes in our lives and some practical tips about how we can reconcile our reality with our dreams when our lives don’t look exactly like we planned.
Nikki Lawrence is a connector by nature. Her warm personality leaves little room for anyone to be a stranger too long. This trait has fueled her pastime and helped Nikki charm audiences as a Mistress of Ceremony at women’s conferences, races and fundraisers all across the DFW Metroplex. By day, Nikki is a Director of Sales for a Fortune 500 Company with a nationwide sales team of over 30 people. She has been with her company for over 15 years and held a plethora of Sales and Marketing roles along the way.
Among her passions is the desire to see women from every walk of life reach their full potential. When she can combine her love for hosting and/or developing people with like causes, she is in her happy place.
Nikki lives in North Dallas and serves at The Village Church. In her free time, she can be found volunteering , daydreaming of home decor, or road tripping with friends.
In our latest episode, Kat chats with Polished Houston’s Chelsea Holden as she shares about navigating through immense loss, finding Polished Houston at just the right time and trusting God for guidance in her relationship with her husband.
Chelsea Holden is a real estate agent, wife, daughter, sister, auntie, dog-mom, and friend...and loves making others feel as comfortable as possible in any situation. In fact, she's never really met a stranger.
She's an advocate for all things local including local musicians, coffee shops, retail stores, and mom & pop shops. 'I believe we should strive to support our local businesses whenever possible. It's hard work being an entrepreneur and shopping local is an easy way for anyone to give back to our communities.'
Chelsea grew up in McAllen, TX and has lived in Houston since 2008. She and her husband, Ronnie, currently live in Spring with their two pups, Mack & Marley and spend their time going to see live music, traveling around Texas to music festivals in their Motorhome Gherty, visiting their one time residency of Denver, CO, or BBQing for friends.
Chelsea found Polished late 2017 shortly after losing their home to Hurricane Harvey and the death of both her mother-in-law and father. She understands all to well navigating tough times and trusting God to guide her way. When she learned the Houston Chapter needed help with Social Media, her forte, she immediately jumped on the opportunity to share in community and navigate her faith and career.
Follow Chelsea on Instagram at @laidbackrealtor