Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Holistically Heal-Thy Self with Jess Pfeffer, Founder of Jess Pfeffer Holistic Event Planning

Today I connected with Lia Picard, a lifestyle journalist based in Atlanta.

She writes about food, travel, and design for a variety of publications including the New York Times, Travel + Leisure, Atlanta magazine, and more.

This year, she launched Bagel Bagel, the podcast for rec tennis players (no strategy, just stories).

When Lia's not writing or podcasting, she's exploring Atlanta's restaurants, spending time with her daughter and husband, or playing tennis. 

It was so fun to get to know her better, and learn about so many of our similarities!

Instagram

Bagel Bagel

Today I connected with Mika Newton, Founder of Zenmi, a wellness practice devoted to the healing power of rest and sound.

Her path began in the corporate world, but life kept nudging her toward what felt more true-helping others slow down, breathe deeper, and reconnect with their inner voice.

And we are so lucky it did, Mika is a talented sound healer who is passionate about sharing it to the Atlanta community and beyond.

"Healing isn't always neat or easy-it's layered, raw, and deeply personal."

IG @zenmisound

Website: https://www.zenmisound.com/

Today I connected with Hailey Curtis Baitinger, the Founder and CEO of DesignBee Agency, a social media marketing and content creation company based in Atlanta that specializes in serving local businesses.

What started as a survival-mode side hustle in December 2020—right after getting laid off from her corporate graphic design job—has evolved into a thriving agency that helps brands bridge the gap between their online presence and real-world experience.

Hailey was inspired by her IG page she created for her dog, what a beautiful metaphor for life.. to take care of yourself the way you take care of your pets or others.

Instagram:Hailey - https://www.instagram.com/haileybaitinger

DesignBee - https://www.instagram.com/designbee.agency/

Noodle - https://www.instagram.com/noodlethestandardpoodle/

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@haileybaitinger

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/haileybaitinger/

Today I connected with Jamila Crawford Pécou, an acclaimed vegan chef, stylist, and travelista.

Her passion for curating aesthetically pleasing experiences led her to brand herself as a “LIFESTYLIST.”

Whether it’s carefully curated travel experiences, preparing delectable vegan faire, or styling her next photoshoot, Jamila’s attention to detail is impeccable.

"Food Fashion and Flyness" is her motto, she shares one of her go to recipes.

Website: https://www.earthcandyarts.com/

Ig Earthcandyarts

Today I connected with Keith Pepper, the owner and publisher of Rough Draft Atlanta, which is the leading hyperlocalmedia organization in metro Atlanta.

An Atlanta native with deep roots in the community, Keith acquired Rough Draft (Springs Publishing) a community newspaper publisher, in December 2020 and has transformed it into a digital-first media company that reaches almost one million readers a month across print, web, email, and social media.

Keith continues to grow printed media even in a time when a lot of us are digital only.. and he definitely knows ATL better than anyone I know!

IG roughdraftatl

Linkedin / keithpepper

Today I connected with Nichole Dandrea-Russert MS, RDN

She is a plant-based dietitian, author, and yoga instructor helping women reconnect with their wellness ecosystem through evidence-based, compassionate guidance.

As the founder of PurelyPlanted.com, Nichole shares science-backed, real-life strategies to nourish the body, uplift the mind, and protect the planet.

Nichole lives in Atlanta with her husband, Ricky, and their rescue pup, Mariposa — where you’ll often find her soaking up time in nature, tending her garden, or exploring plant-based dishes around town.

Ig: Purely_planted

Today I connected with Lauren Dike, a nervous system and somatic healing expert who helps individuals and organizations break free from chronic stress, burnout, and ingrained patterns that limit growth.

As the founder of Harmonna Inclusive Wellbeing, she partners with leaders, teams, and high-impact individuals—particularly Black women and women of color—to create sustainable change through evidence-based, body-first practices.

Drawing from her background in neuroscience-based mindfulness, trauma-informed care, and organizational culture consulting, Lauren has designed transformative programs for companies like Lululemon, Black Girls Code, and The Honey Pot Company. Her approach integrates movement, breathwork, and experiential learning to help clients shift from awareness to real, embodied change.

Our collab, SETTLE + Support is December 7th, 2025

Today I connected with Clarence Taylor, stage name XPJ Seven. I met and worked with Clarence a few years back at Dirty South Yoga Fest.

He's originally from Belleville Alabama.

His yoga journey started after he injured his back playing basketball and he looked for alternative ways to heal it- he found yoga via Essence magazine.

After trying a yoga pose he dabbled sporadically and then in 1998 he completed a yoga teacher training. Initially he wasn't interested in the spiritual aspect of the practice it was purely physical. He continued to study, practice and teach and then realized the syncretistic nature of the spiritual, mental and physical of yoga.

If you live in ATL, you have probably seen him on his bike on the beltline or at local coffee shops practicing/ writing for open mics.

Today I connected with Mimi Daraa the founder of Maison Palo Santo, a wellness brand rooted in sustainability, sensory healing, and authenticity.

She is an author, speaker, retreat leader, and creator of the Palo Santo Sacred Journey — a transformative experience blending breath, movement, and ritual.

With over a decade of experience working with Palo Santo, Mimi pairs artisan products with intentional practices to help others breathe, reset, and create sacred space.

She hopes to plant just as many seeds of inspiration as she does Palo Santo trees in Ecuador, guiding others to connect to their inner peace, creative power, and purpose.

I love collaborating with Mimi for the last 6 years, and so admire her dedication and constant evolution.

Today I connected with Nya Daley of Soulga. We chatted on her journey of becoming an entrepreneur in the wellness industry and the importance of having space for racialized people.

Nya is a Muscogee (Creek) Nation, Atlanta-based social worker, community builder, yoga facilitator (E-RYT 200, RYT 500), and equity, diversity, and belongingness (EDB) educator.

With over 16 years of experience in the social service sector, Nya has dedicated her career to supporting equity-deserving communities through yoga, mindfulness practices, and community-centered events and training.

She is the founder of Soulga Yoga and Wellness, a collective that nurtures the growth and thriving of racialized wellness entrepreneurs.

Website

Today I connected with Shelby Adina, Founder of Khona Wellness.

Shelby is a dynamic yoga teacher, sound healer, and founder of KHōNA Wellness, known for creating immersive, culturally-rooted wellness experiences that uplift community and celebrate Black joy.

Through her signature events like The Wave and EARTHSTRONG, Shelby invites others to slow down, reconnect with their senses, and live expansively.

Shelby shared the importance of filling her cup by going outside into nature and how it’s needed for holistic practitioners. 

Instagram: @shelbyadina 

Today I connected with Tamara Lucas, CEO of My Panda.

Tamara Lucas is a founder and community-builder passionate about solving the everyday challenges working parents and professionals face. 

As the CEO of My Panda, she brings together her background in entrepreneurship, leadership, and social impact to create innovative solutions that reduce overwhelm and free up time. 

A single mom herself, Tamara deeply understands the mental load of balancing career, family, and personal life, and channels that experience into building a company designed to support others in the same position.

Number 1 task people ask for?? Helping with laundry!

Instagram

Linkedin

Today I connected with Nasim Fluker Founder + CEO of The Tenth Club based in Atlanta.

The Tenth is a membership community for intellectually curious people to gather, grow, and build.

At her core, Nasim is a community builder. Through her work, she has cultivated a thriving ecosystem centered on enriching conversations, cultural exploration, and authentic connections.

Nasim is such a beacon of light in the community world and it was such a pleasure getting to know her better.

@nasimfluker

@thetenth.club

Today I connected with Mehrnush Saadat Owner of Soberish. She's a serial entrepreneur, real estate attorney, and now a non-alcoholic functional bottle shop visionary.

And let me tell you her shop is GORGEOUS. Beautifully curated with the best of the best NA drinks and goodies.

We chatted on her being an entrepreneur from the get go and the lessons she has learned and continues to grow from.

Bringing plant medicine to the forefront of holistic living in Atlanta.. and beyond?

website

IG

Today I connected with Christina Trifero, psychic medium energy healer & spiritual strategist.

Christina shared some great nuggets on what she does and how everyone has intuition. Some just need a bit of support to find it or hear it!

Being vulnerable as an entrepreneur.

"helping people to connect to their own intuition", lights her up.

Website: www.spiritual-curiosity.com

Instagram

Today I chatted with Christa Russie, Pharm D, Owner of Canopy Wellness. Christa Russie is a licensed pharmacist, functional medicine consultant and registered yoga teacher. 

We connected on the importance of a holistic apprach when it comes to health and well-being. She shared great info on the "in between" and its importance such as what we heat our food in and how restful our sleep is.

Through her practice, Canopy Wellness she helps clients take charge of their health by uncovering root causes of GI conditions, hormonal imbalances, fatigue and more. 

Christa blends the science of functional medicine with mind-body practices to create holistic, practical strategies that support real life transformation.  

Instagram: canopy_wellness

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CanopyWellnessAtl

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/christa-russie

Today I connected with PT, pelvic floor expert Dr. Angelica Whaley. We met because I needed her! And I have learned so much from her even before this interview.

Angelica is extremely passionate about women's health and it's so exciting to hear her next chapter of her journey to become an integrative women’s health coach in service of disenfranchised minority women. She currently works at The Pelvis Pro in Inman Park.

"She is a life longer learner which allows her to serve even the most complex of clients comprehensive, evidence-based, and patient-centered care."

IG @ angee_licaa

Today I connected with Margot Witteveen Margot Witteveen the co-owner of Perfectly Portioned Wellness a virtual private practice who help midlife women navigate from peri to post menopause.

This is not just a buzz word or something that is trending, this is the real deal! The menopausal journey is no joke and thankfully people like Margot are here to support us.

She's more than a dietician she's a business owner and takes the business part seriously. Listen in on some great tips she implements for her thriving business.

Website: https://www.perfectlyportionedwellness.com/

Today I connected with Julia LeRoy she's passionate about cooking and living a balanced, healthy lifestyle.

I loved learning more about her journey to being a personal chef and running her own food and wellness site.

"I believe in creating meaningful change in our communities. I currently serve on the board of the Atlanta Chapter of Slow Food International as chapter co-chair."

Website: everydayalchemy.com⁠.

Today I connected with Melinda Lee Schmitt, an empowerment coach and author of the debut memoir, Rebel Hugger. We chatted about connection and how sometimes what we want to give others is exactly what we need ourselves.

We shared one of our favorite tools for "settling" putting our hands on our heart, and taking a long deep breath. Hope you join us for it!

Melinda's memoir Rebel Hugger tells the story of Melinda’s first hug journey, complete with the soul-rocking questions that followed, and a second journey that would take her cross-country to hug and stay with strangers.

We giggled a bit and it was such a pleasure to get to know her better, it even made me ask her to grab tea soon!

Website: https://melindaleeschmitt.com/

IG: @thisismemelindalee  

Today I connected with Caitlin Nisos a life and leadership coach, facilitator, and co-founder of the Aliveness Collective.

We recently met at The LOLA and became fast friends. Caitlin is passionate and speaks on her journey and the lessons she continues to learn as an entrepreneur and coach.

With reverence for both the beauty and ache of being alive, Caitlin helps people lay down their masks, cultivate authentic self-respect and self-belief, and start racking up more “well-lived” days.

Her work centers around courageous inquiry, radical permission, and deep compassion.

Website : https://www.alivenesscollective.com/

IG @everythingisfruittome

In this episode I connected with Elizabeth O'Brien a psychotherapist, feminist business coach, and longtime advocate for women’s well-being and leadership. 

She supports women at the intersection of healing, strategy, and entrepreneurship—through her work as a speaker, trainer, and founder of The Shift Shop. Whether she's guiding clients through nervous system-aligned marketing or offering therapeutic tools like the Centering YOU card deck.

We chatted on boundaries, requirements and non negotiable, including how to prevent burn out which she faced and sees often with her clients.

IG:@theshift.shop

Website

In this episode, Anna Cable shares her journey to finding work that doesn’t just check the boxes—it lights her up from the inside out. We explore what it means to align your head, heart, and soul in your career, and how Anna has shaped a life and business that honors both her purpose and her people. For Anna, success includes the freedom to be present with family near and far—and she’s created space for that without sacrificing her mission. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about redefining fulfillment, honoring your values, and building a life that feels as good as it looks.

Consulting Practice

The Launchpad Program

Today I chatted with Catherine Lee and Lauren Lee, Co-Founders of Semaine Health, identical twins with endometriosis who took their own personal "mess" and turned it into their message. With the help of Lauren's husband Matt, a bio genius they started their supplement company. We chatted on the importance of balance and how everyone has a different path for their anti-inflammatory journey. We are honored to be gifting their products to our guests of Harmony Through Menopause, and the start of a beautiful relationship supporting as many women possible!

How can they reach you? 

Semainehealth.com

@semainehealth

TIKTOK semaine_dash 

Today I connected with Rebecca Kastin, National Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach and owner of Radiant Wellness. We chatted about the importance of food for well-being, especially during menopause. Rebecca shares her relationship with food and the transition she has made over the last 10 years personally and professionally. As an entrepreneur Rebecca acknowledges the struggle with finding balance, but also the importance of non-negotiables.

How can they reach you? 

@rebeccakastin

rebeccakastincoaching.com

Today I chatted with Elizabeth Scheer a posture & mobility specialist with 27 year background in massage therapy & 14 years yoga, 500hr certified, with a focus on trauma conscious.

Elizabeth has turned her grief and physical pain journey into a practice she is offering to the world. By teaching people tools for better posture and mobility she isn't just helping them physically but mentally and emotionally too.

As one of our facilitators for Harmony Through Menopause Elizabeth with share pelvic floor and mobility exercises that can be applied at home during any part of your life.

IG

Linktree

Today I chatted with Valeria Espinosa, Menopause Health Coach. Valeria's own journey through and early menopause sent her on a journey to being a life/ health coach and focuses on supporting women through the transition.

"In this new stage of my life as a woman, it has been vitally important to implement in myself the knowledge that I acquired in my two certifications, because I have been able to see how my body responds positively to alternative therapies, my discomfort little by little is decreasing and! Some have completely disappeared! I was able to see what Joshua Rosenthal, founder of IIN, mentions in his lectures: Our bodies can heal themselves when given half the chance to do so.

Website: https://www.valeriaespinosa.com/

IG: @valeria_coachmenopausia

Today I am chatting with Donna Harpaz, Owner of Leafline Acupuncture and Herbs.

Leafline [lēf, līn] noun: 

1. A natural remedy regarded as indispensable for the maintenance and preservation of life.

Donna received her Masters of Acupuncture degree from the National College of Natural Medicine in Portland, OR where she graduated with honors.  She is certified as a Diplomate of Oriental Medicine by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) and is licensed by the Florida Department of Health as a licensed acupuncturist and board-certified Chinese herbalist.

​

After spending a year interning in different clinical settings throughout Oregon, she moved here to Florida in the fall of 2015 to start practicing and be closer to her family.

website: https://www.leaflineacupuncture.com/

IG @ leaflineacupuncture

Today I chatted with Michelle Alva, The Oxytocin Queen, Creator of the ALVA method.

Love and Hormones: More Linked Than You Think w Michelle Alva, The Oxytocin Queen.

Michelle Alva Has a degree in Physical Therapy for over 28 years… she is also certified hypnotist, yoga teacher, and NLP AND tantra practitioner . She was guided to create the ALVA method which stands for Amplify Love Vibrate abundance to educate and empower men and women on how to live as love, based on the science of love. 

I am super excited she is one of the 9 facilitators for our upcoming retreat on menopause: Harmony Through Menopause, May 3-5th at Opal Grand in Delray Beach Florida.

Website: https://michellealva.com/

Youtube: michellealvatv

Ig: @michellealvalove

Today I chatted with Dr.Barquin of Eudaimonia Miami.

Aristotle says that the purpose of mankind is eudaimonia—happiness. So, the purpose of man is to achieve eudaimonia, which is a state of serene and permanent happiness, rather than the momentary exaltation of the senses. In this way, our actions will be good or bad, depending on this ultimate goal.

And chatting with Dr. Barquin on her path to functional medicine is just that! She's highly educated and passionate about what she does and her patients receive a holistic approach.

Super honored that she's joining us May 3-5th for Harmony Through Menopause as our expert medical practitioner.

Website: https://www.eudaimoniamiami.com/

Today I am chatting with Jenna Banks, business leader, speaker and author of the best-selling book “I Love Me More: How To Find Happiness And Success Through Self-Love”.

Jenna Banks is business leader, speaker and author of the best-selling book “I Love Me More: How To Find Happiness And Success Through Self-Love”.

She is also the host of The Jenna Banks Show, a video series featuring tips, tools, and expert advice to help you achieve your fullest potential, both in life and career. The series can be streamed on the PowerFULL Women Plus channel available on ROKU, Google Play, Apple TV, Amazon Fire and YouTube.

www.jennabanks.com

Get your free love notes: https://jenna-banks.com/love-notes-to-myself/

Today I connected with Jeremy Dalton, Sound Practitioner, Owner of Soulful Soundz Studio + The Sound Bowl Depot 

We chatted on the importance of sound and the benefits it has on our mind, body and spirit. Jeremy is a self taught musician who creates a "symphony of the soul" through his private and public offerings. He also leads sound bowl trainings and sells instruments.

IG@soulfulsoundzstudio

www.soulfulsoundzstudio.com 

In store sales at Soundbowl Depot

Today I connected with Rebecca Trussell, Yoga Therapist based out of Atlanta.

We chatted on what yoga therapy is and the way it works beautifully with other ancillary practices. Yoga therapy looks at the WHOLE and is a great part of holistic living.

I was so impressed by the knowledge and tips she shared for the audience at home. Can't wait to link up with her for an experience!

@atlantayogatherapy

https://www.rebeccatrussell.com/

Today's episode of Holistically Heal-Thyself is Naeemah Jade manifesting coach and founder of Aligned AF,  a personal development lifestyle brand helping everyone see their MAGIC.

Learn more about Naeemah, on ways to manifest, and what amazing experiences she is planning in Atlanta soon!

"when a bird is trying to be a fish, or a fish is trying to be a bird, instead of just letting the bird fly and the fish swim" 

Aligned AF is here for the people that didn’t grow up with this but knew it was more out there. It’s for those that still curse, don’t necessarily have the typical “spiritual life”, but know connection with their Source is still so very real for them. It’s for the amazing folks that know they can co-create how they want their lives to flow with ease. It’s for us to come together and learn from each other, because we will align with each other to expand and go higher.

https://alignedaf.co/

@alignedafco

Today I connected with Andrea Blanton, Owner and Nurturer of Food Earth Birth. Andrea has worn many hats in the Atlanta community including markets manager, School garden Educator, mother and birth worker. As a new form of engaging in agriculture, she's a part of the Black Sheep Fiber Collective.

Food Earth Birth- A conduit of traditional practices in food preparation while stewarding the earth and assisting in birthing to reconnect with the self and community.

Andrea Blanton was born in Camp Lejeune, NC and grew up in both Chicago, IL and Phoenix, AZ. She has a BA from Spelman College, a Community-Based Doula Certificate from First Families of GA and a Sustainable Urban Agriculture Certificate from HABESHA Inc. Andrea runs FOOD EARTH BIRTH influenced by southeastern seasonality, community vibes and divine whispers to assist in bringing forth new life via birth work, food offerings and herbs. She spends most of her time caring for her four children, shopping at farmers markets, and thinking of a master plan. You can find her gardening, talking about food and freedom and practicing pleasure.

Website: https://www.foodearthbirth.com/

IG: foodearthbirth

Today I am chatting with Erica Clahar, Founder + Executive Director of Umi Feeds, aka Umi "mother, nurture, serve"

Umi Feeds: Spreading Love Through Food

"We are a food rescue organization that is dedicated to serving the hungry and homeless healthy and nutritious meals."

What an appropriate name for Erica-- she is doing just that serving her community and nurturing people with food and resources. I loved learning more about Erica's journey into this work and all of the amazing programs she offers. I look forward to working with her soon on an event to share more information, increase awareness of her non-profit, and raise money to support all the work she does.

website: https://umifeeds.org/

IG: @umifeeds

Today I connected with Dia Parker, Executive Director of Athena’s Warehouse.

I met Dia through The Lola, the women's CoWorking space we are both members of. She is such a bright signing star doing so much for the community. It was so great to chat and learn more about her childhood and what led her to be more involved with the community she grew up in. As an executive Director of an amazing local nonprofit she is impressive and inspiring.

Athena’s Warehouse Inc. promotes kinship to female, non-binary, and gender non-conforming students to build their confidence through mentorship, scholarship, and workshops that focus on their personal & professional development. For over a decade we've provided scholarships, workshops, and mentorship for youth ages 14-25.

We’re breaking the cycle of poverty with a holistic wellness initiative called "Discover Your Inner Warrior." Each week participants are educated on domestic violence, reproductive health, emotional wellbeing, and how to apply for college. 

Website: https://www.athenaswarehouse.org/

IG @athenaswarehouse 

To learn more and connect with Dia visit Calendly: bit.ly/meetwithaw 

Today I am chatting with Carolynn Ladd, of Carolynn Ladd Holistic Health, Private Holistic Chef + Integrative Nutrition Health Coach.

What a treat to interview my dear friend Carolynn! I loved learning more about her journey and her new chapter in her life. As a private holistic chef for years she has helped many(including me) get more comfortable in the kitchen and learn yummy healthy inspired dishes.

Carolynn chats on what it means to be "healthy" and how it is different for everyone. Her new brand and website are launched and we are excited to see all she does with it!

website: carolynnladd.com

IG @carolynnholistichealth

Today I connected with Courtney Marshall, Owner of Spirit and Soul, Mobile bar owner, podcaster, and writer. I met Courtney a couple of years back at an event by A Sip of Paradise a local community garden for bartenders. As soon as we met I loved her energy and we have been in touch since then, and luckily now have worked together at an event, and have another one coming up soon.

Courtney shares the importance of self care and although her company is her "child" she needs to nourish and take care of herself, just like she would to a "plant".

Spirit and Soul Mobile Bar Co. is a luxury mobile bar service - serving private and corporate clients

Courtney's podcast:  Spirit and Soul Podcast is a platform that highlights creatives, entrepreneurs, thought provokers, and educators within the hospitality industry.

Website:https://www.spiritandsoulatl.com/

IG: spiritandsoulatl

Today I chatted with my friend Megan, Reiki Practitioner + Sound Healer, Founder of Megan Ellen Ratts. I love how vulnerable and real she is when she shares her story of who she is and why she does what she does. She is such a light and force the way she shows up for her community and is also a great connector! Every time we chat or hang out she connects me to another amazing local women doing great things too! Megan is raw and real and inspires me to be the same, I hope she will do the same for you.

"My life’s mission is to create an environment of deep healing for others to fully pursue their passions and true joy."

Website: https://www.meganellenratts.com/

IG @meganellenratts

Today I connected with a friend and colleague Andrea Berg, a human design guide, speaker, and coach. I met Andrea a couple of months ago at our women's co-working space the Lola here in Atlanta. We quickly got to know each other and seemed to have a lot in common. I was mesmerized by her energy and she shared with me a bit about human design, something I had never heard of.   What's your birth chart? Yep, that's the first step to finding yours out and it's amazing how much we learn about ourselves through it. Andrea gives a brief overview of some of the energy types and how knowing them is helpful in your personal and professional lives. 

"Decondition from supremacy culture + experience more satisfaction, success, peace + surprise" 

https://andreawardberg.com/

IG @andreawardberg

Today's episode is with a dear friend and client, Deborah Fleming, Founder of Walnut Life Foods. As always I learn something new from her. She is a wise woman who is eager to share health and wellness tips for the community. Deborah offers classes and creates and sells the most delicious taco meat, made by Walnuts! If you have been to the Grant Park market on Sundays you are sure to have seen her. Giving out delicious taco meat on chips which is one of the many ways to eat her product. Now with her own commercial kitchen Walnut Life Foods is hitting the next level at local restaurants, retail stores, and Peachtree Road Market on Saturdays. 

"Be service to her community, health disparities she noticed of what folks are doing or what they're not doing" and that is how Walnut Life Foods was born! 

Learn more about Walnut Life Foods 

www.walnutlife.co

IG @livingthatwalnutlife

Today I connected with Poorvi Chordia, Co-Founder of Herbs + Kettles, an MD and tea sommelier

We chatted about the wellness aspect of tea, her balancing her various roles as a mother, wife, doctor, and business owner, and the importance of living a holistic lifestyle.  Poorvi uses the practice of steeping and drinking tea as a metaphor for life, "go with the flow, and let it go". 

Poorvi shared her journey to co-owning a tea company and how she connects western and eastern medical practices with her teas. She and her husband co-own this company that sells in person at farmers' markets in #atlanta and also is available online. 

Website

IG:@herbsandkettles

Today I connected with Octavia Raheem author of Pause Rest Be and Gather  And Founder of Starshine + Clay. 

Octavia leads rest-based experiences that awaken creative potential, ignite possibility, and inspire bold action within high-achieving individuals and visionary companies + organizations who positively impact our world.

We chatted on the importance of rest( using meditation or a pause) and her curiosity that brought her to her mat. 

She reminded us of the great quote by Alice walker, “I think it pisses God off if you walk by the color purple in a field somewhere and don't notice it. People think pleasing God is all God cares about. But any fool living in the world can see it always trying to please us back.”

Upcoming offering: Devoted To Rest: Rest Based Mastermind Immersion & RetreatDates: January 21, 2023- June 25, 2023

Website: https://octaviaraheem.com/

IG: @ocatviaraheem

Today I am chatting with Danielle Grey, Co-Founder of World of Unoia.

Unoia (which means beautiful thinking) is an Atlanta based, premium CBD lifestyle and product company focused on mental health, mindfulness and self-care. As a black, queer woman couple, founders Brandé Elise and Danielle Gray wanted to create a CBD brand with a soul that is completely invested in their customers' mental wealth and self-care journey.

Born in Georgia, Danielle Gray, MBA has always been a bit out of the box - it makes sense how naturally marketing comes to her. She has owned and operated her marketing firm, DG Marketing Co. since 2016 and has traveled the country speaking to over 10,000 people. She developed and designed the UNOIA logo, brand and all marketing materials.

Danielle + Brande started this business to help people with their self-care and mental health. CBD has been known to help with anxiety, depression and overall stress. World of Unoia sells CBD for humans and for dogs.  One specific way cannabinoids are helpful for sleep is from the CBN strand which is in their night night product line. 

World of Unoia can be purchased online or if you are local to #atlanta, visit the Village Market in Ponce City Market and check out their whole product line, supporting the local community. 

Today I connected with Kacie Lett Gordon and Katie Louise Mullins, Founders of It All Media. I met these lovely ladies a little while back at the Lola, a women's co-working space in Atlanta. 

Kacie shared her story and the creation of It All Media with her BFF Katie and I knew I needed to get to know them better. 

We chatted about work/ life balance and the need to share women's stories in order to heal and process it. Their media company which includes a podcast has brought on amazing research and they have concluded from it:

1. Modern womanhood includes tensions and impossible standards of a stereotypical “it all” that leads to feelings of inadequacy, insecurity, unfulfillment and unhappiness.

2. A system performs exactly how it’s designed; work, life, family, community and relationship systems were not designed by or for women and/or non-traditional paths.

3. We cannot be what we don’t see; there is a deficit in narratives of women living life on their own terms without judgment or “otherness” in macro society and micro life.

Website: itallmedia.co sign up for their weekly newsletter 

IG: @itallmedia

Podcast: Weekly Fuck It All, modern women redefining it all

Releasing their course- "help women build a life they don't need to escape from"

Today I connected with Kerri Kelly, Author of American Detox and Founder of CTZN WELL. 

I recently discovered this amazing human being by watching her IG live with my favorite yoga teachers, Seane Corn. 

Her book has really opened by eyes to the world of wellness and the part I play in it. We chatted on her book and her journey to writing it.  Kerri is currently doing a book tour for it and will be in Atlanta this Fall. 

In American Detox, organizer, yoga activist, wellness disruptor, and CTZNWELL founder Kerri Kelly sounds the wake-up call. It’s time to commit to the radical work of unlearning the toxic messages we’ve been fed–to resist, disrupt, and dream better futures of what wellness really means.

IG: @kkellyyoga

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Join her book club: Learn.americandetox.co

Today I connected with Denayja Reese, Producer and author of Don’t Hurt Yourself. I was lucky enough to meet her at the Lola here in Atlanta. She was there for a live podcast interview and featured film and conversation on her book Don't Hurt Yourself. 

I was quickly mesmerized by her story and knew I had to connect with her and invite her on this! She is such an inspiration and a reminder of all the chapters in our own personal books we are "writing". 

A great take-home tip, is to write your own happiness list! 

Denayja Reese is an LA-based Strategist, Producer, Project Manager, Writer & Host whose diverse career journey has meant seamlessly moving through industries, markets and projects to execute, innovate and inspire. She has managed over $600K+ in sponsorship revenue with companies like Toyota, Etsy, YouTube, Spotify & more. Producing events featuring world-renowned speakers and creating content for Coachella. Additionally, she has produced music videos for Bosco and June's Diary. She is an active community-builder, weaver and guide who is committed to spiritual healing and growth in her evolving human experience. Her website is www.denayjareese.com and she can be found on Instagram @donthurtyourself, on Twitter @girlwthatlaugh & @denayjareese on TikTok.

Eileen is the co-founder and Dayle focuses on the culture of the community, while also owning her own company. The two of them share their journey and their instant chemistry. 

Martine(co-founder) and Eileen came together to build The Lola out of their shared desire to support and empower womxn. They believe womxn are vastly underserved and under-supported, yet remain driven, ambitious and hungry to find and re-define their success.

The Lola is a great example of community and how women can stick together and form alliances rather than being competitive. 

Website: https://the-lola.com/

Ig @thelola_women

Ig @number4designstudio

Today I connected with Robby Astrove, an environmental educator and arborist. Robby was raised in Florida and his love of nature began as a child on his field trip to the Everglades.

Through passion and curiosity about nature and wildlife in general, Robby continued his education and went to grad school to learn more about environmental education and has worked many jobs doing so. Trees Atlanta really set the trajectory for Robby planting trees and his love of Serviceberries. 

Currently, the park manager of Arabia Mountain, his side hustles include foraging and working with schools and personal home gardens. He loves hiking not just at work but also in his spare time.

Robby is gearing up for 2 upcoming fruit-related events. May 28th is the fruit ramble with Concrete Jungle and June 2 is the Serviceberry Festival with me! (Real Connections)

Ig @serviceberryfestatl