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You're 35, living the dream. Scuba diving, love, adventure... Then the diagnosis hits: triple-negative breast cancer. Suddenly, the question looms: Are those carefree Saturdays and date nights your "best times ever?" A raw and powerful story for every person who's ever felt the shadow of "what if?" with actionable advice when you’re faced with a terrifying cancer diagnosis. Face your greatest fear with Melannie Bachman's story – and discover how you, too, can find freedom in the beautiful face of a cancer diagnosis.

Visit https://www.melanniebachman.com to order your copy of her book, "A Dive Through Cancer" (spoiler alert: it reads like the most terrifying, beautiful poetic thriller I have ever read. It cracked me wide open!!) 

To see the beautiful "Shedding Skin" short film we filmed of Melannie's hair shaving ceremony when she began chemo, watch here (makes me cry every freakin' time) : https://youtu.be/kynK7zeUEdc

Melannie holds experience as an author, dive instructor, published marine scientist, & yoga teacher. She is passionate about inspiring connections with each other, within ourselves, and with our planet. As a triple negative breast cancer survivor diagnosed at age 35, she carries the BRCA1 gene mutation.  

 

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00:00 It’s The Most Alive I’ve Ever Felt In Death

03:06 Diving Deep: The Birth of a Book

06:09 Facing Cancer: A Personal Saga

09:01 Moments of Connection: Stories from the Oncology Room

12:01 The Weight of Words: A Profound Revelation

15:04 Advocating for Health: The Patient's Journey

18:14 Reconstructing Identity: The Choices We Make

21:08 Navigating Recovery: Life After Cancer

23:48 The Reality of Reintegration: Finding Oneself Again

27:10 Support Systems: How to Be There for Others

30:02 Death and Rebirth: A New Perspective

32:59 Finding Beauty in Life: The Gift of Awareness

38:41 Creating Sacred Spaces in Transition

50:46 Recognizing the Signs of Breast Cancer

01:01:48 Navigating the Healthcare System

01:02:17 “Don’t You Feel FIERCE, Bald?” The Journey of Losing Your Hair

01:09:58 Changing the Narrative of Cancer

 

#cancer #memoir #personal journey #advocacy #health #cancerrecovery #lifeaftercancer #lifeaftercancer #cancerdiagnosis #cancersupport #death #preparingfordeath #terminalillness #beauty #identity #death #healthcare #breastcancer  #breastselfexamination #chemohairloss #chemotherapy #emotionalhealing   Summary: In this conversation, Shelby Ring and her guest Melannie Bachman explore the profound journey of facing cancer, the process of writing a memoir, and the importance of advocacy in healthcare. They discuss the emotional and physical challenges of cancer treatment, the significance of personal stories, and the impact of community support. The dialogue delves into the complexities of identity reconstruction post-treatment and the transformative perspective on life and death that emerges from such experiences. In this conversation, Shelby Ring and Melannie Bachman shares their profound experiences surrounding death, cancer, and personal transformation. Melannie discusses the importance of creating sacred spaces during transitions and dying, recognizing the signs of breast cancer, navigating the healthcare system, and the emotional journey of losing her hair during treatment. Throughout, she emphasizes the power of changing one's narrative to foster healing and resilience.   TAKEAWAYS

• The importance of creating supportive environments during difficult times.
• Writing can be a powerful tool for healing and connection.
• Personal stories resonate deeply and can inspire others.
• Advocacy in healthcare is crucial for patient empowerment.
• The journey of cancer is not just physical but deeply emotional.
• Reconstructive choices can significantly impact one's identity.
• Recovery from cancer involves navigating a new reality.
• Community support is vital for those undergoing treatment.
• Experiencing death can change one's perspective on life.
• Finding beauty in small moments enhances the appreciation of life. Creating a peaceful environment is crucial during transitions.
• Witnessing death can be a deeply transformative experience.
• Trusting your body and instincts is essential in healthcare.
• Self-examination can lead to early detection of health issues.
• Changing the narrative around cancer can empower individuals.
• The journey of losing hair can be a sacred experience.
• Support from loved ones can enhance the healing process.
• Recognizing the signs of change in your body is vital.
• Emotional healing is intertwined with physical health.
• Finding strength in vulnerability can lead to personal growth.

 

Jason Sisneros’s life isn't your typical success story. It's a tale of clawing your way out of domestic violence and darkness, defying the odds, and building a life of purpose and impact. From knife fights to standing in front of his mother’s abuser at the ripe age of nine, Jason Sisneros shares his journey from a challenging past to becoming a thriving entrepreneur and mentor, and passionate advocate against human trafficking.

When it comes to business, Jason is as seasoned as they come; from bankruptcy in his first two businesses being $2,000,000 in the hole, to being mentored with business and self development legends Tony Robbins and several others. Building and selling 26 businesses later, I can’t think of a better person more strategically positioned to troubleshoot the breadth of challenges struggling small and mid-sized business owners face.

 

But this isn't just about business. It's about the fire that burns within each of us, the drive to rise above circumstances and create a life we truly deserve.

In this gripping interview with Jason Sisneros on The Ruby Hour Podcast, you'll discover:

• The Resilience Code: Uncover the secrets to bouncing back from adversity and using your challenges to fuel growth. Jason reveals how he transformed his struggles into a springboard for success.
• The Power of Self-Awareness: It's not just about knowing your strengths; it's about confronting your weaknesses and owning your story. Discover how self-awareness becomes your weapon against self-sabotage.
• Designing Your Endgame: Don't just let life happen to you. Jason reveals how to take control and define your own "end game" – the legacy you want to leave behind.
• The Shield of Protection: Discover the powerful metaphor of the "shield" and how it empowers you to protect yourself and those you love. This is about building strength from within and standing up for what matters.
• Beyond Vanity Metrics: In a world obsessed with likes and followers, Jason cuts through the noise and reveals the true nature of influence. Learn how to build genuine connections that matter.
• The Entrepreneur's Playbook: Gain practical strategies for negotiating effectively, building a thriving business, and avoiding the traps that hold many entrepreneurs back.

This is more than just a podcast; it's a blueprint for escaping the shadows and forging your own path to freedom. It's a call to action for anyone who refuses to be defined by their past.

Ready to break free? Tune in to this powerful conversation and unlock the courage within you.

“Without small and midsized businesses, there is no America.” — Jason Sisneros Golden One Liners

• Business owners are a unique group of human beings.
• If you are a business owner, you are historically extremely important.
• Success isn't guaranteed, but the opportunity to succeed is.
• Designing your own end game is crucial for success.
• Masculinity is the competency and ability to administer violence, but choosing not to. Presence and protection is the name of the game.
• For women especially, knowing your worth is essential for not only personal development, but aligning with the partner of your dreams who wants to protect and cover you til your last breath.
• Surround yourself with people who uplift and inspire you.
• Your past does not define your future; you can change your narrative.
• Building wealth should be in service of others, not just oneself.
• The peacocks of social media, flaunting their Lamborghinis and boats — they’ll come and go. The truly wealthy know the more money you make, the harder you work to actually look like you don’t have a lot of money.
• The journey to becoming a king involves mirroring great leaders.
• The secret to being a great man is being worthy of other great men’s respect.
• The journey into rescuing victims of human trafficking is often a deeply personal one.
• As a man, be that shield who protects the vulnerable.
• The secret to growing your business is to fall in love with your client’s outcome more than your own.
• Small and mid-sized enterprises play a vital role in the economy, contributing more than 60% of the GDP.
• Without small and midsized businesses, there is no America.
• When building your business, start with a clear end goal in mind.
• Social media can be used for either vanity or profit, choose wisely.
• Real influence is about genuine connections, not just follower counts.
• Business is fundamentally about helping others save money, make money, or drastically improving your clients’ lives.

Visit https://builttoexit.biz/ to join Jason’s latest weekly cadre of troubleshooting the most common business owner pain points, weekly on his private channel. This episode is recorded, produced, and edited by our company, Ruby Riot Creatives. Visit https://www.rubyriotcreatives.com/podcast to see our latest projects, hear more episodes in The Ruby Hour Podcast, and visit our previous season's episode archives.

Emmy award-winning cinematographer John Barnhardt swaps stories today The Ruby Hour. From close call wildlife adventure stories in the field as a filmmaker to roughing the wilderness and challenges of creative entrepreneur's mind-- we cover some ground. John shares candid stories about "soul pieces" he's filmed in his life, and we discuss how you can keep those meaningful "why" projects into your creative workflow to keep your creative fire burning hot. 

Today I had the Barnett girls— Maddie and Beth Barnett, founders of Eat Me Cookie Co. on the podcast. If you don't know who these two humans are, buckle up. These sisters started a crude cookie company; they write vulgar and inappropriate things on cookie cakes for birthdays, bachelorette parties. You type it — they'll pipe it and ship it across the country to your old college roommate, bae, your old boss, your favorite Bachelor contestant…

 

We took turns wearing a strange sex-kitten face mask, horror stories of online dating in Charleston (and how Maddie and my Stage-5 Clinger approach is wildly different from Beth's "Hands-Off" Approach.) I introduced the girls to garlic-stuffed olive and gin martinis in the making of this episode, they're sitting in their pink and purple icing stained leisurewear -- and we discuss how we're all obsessed with Maddie and Beth's mom, Maureen. 

 

Maddie and Beth are some of my favorite humans in Charleston. In today's episode, we had absolutely no filter in discussing all things relationships, dating, starting a wildly creative (and hilarious) business during a pandemic; all here on today's episode of The Ruby Hour Podcast.

 

To order your very own crude cookie cake - visit https://www.eatmecookiecakes.com/ and if you're not already following their hilarious Instagram feed - do yourself a favor and follow them now — https://www.instagram.com/eatmecookiesnyc 

From processing the unknown (and TERRIFYING) territory of going through a divorce, leaving the Mormon religion, recreating yourself as a 50-something-year-old bombshell, Lisa Staff spills the tea today. A Hilton Head Island-based photographer and gazelle-of-a-human, Lisa shares her inner world: being a “shameless” self-promoter, an ENFJ, and ways she's finding the beauty in the uncomfortable spaces in life and how to continue moving forward despite the vultures and naysayers from the past.

 

You can follow (and be wildly entertained by) Lisa Staff over on Instagram @LisaStaffPhoto or on her website, https://www.lisastaffphoto.com

Do you have a teenager in your life who's self-harming? I was that angsty teenager at one point. On today's storytelling format of The Ruby Hour Podcast, here's my story of why I turned to self-mutilation as a teenager and what was going on in my mind.

This season of The Ruby Hour is all about connection and genuine community. My intention in sharing this story is to inspire connection, empathy, and maybe a little perspective into what may be going on in your loved one's mind, what they may be wanting in their life, and how you can be supportive or encouraging in their process.

If you have any questions, if this episode was HELPFUL, or if a part stood out, would you share in the comments? Or if it's something more private, drop us an email at heyruby@rubyriotcreatives.com

!!! TRIGGER WARNING !!!! TRIGGER WARNING !!!! TRIGGER WARNING !!!! TRIGGER WARNING !!!!

This episode references domestic violence, alcoholism, and self-mutilation/self-harm and includes some very graphic descriptions and intense sound-scoring that may be unsuitable for some listeners. If this triggers you or is too close to home, I invite you to check out our many other episodes of The Ruby Hour Podcast.

This episode is part of our new sound-scored intimate short-story sessions for this season of The Ruby Hour Podcast.

If you're interested in learning more about self-harm and emotional abuse, this is definitely a podcast episode you don't want to miss. This story is in a candid and powerful soundscored format, and address some of the most important elements around emotional abuse and self-mutilation.

In honor of this episode drop, we've nominated To Write Love On Her Arms as our Q3 "Giving Back Cause".

If you or someone you know struggles with self-harm, I encourage you to check out To Write Love On Her Arms’ Self Care Resources: https://twloha.com/self-care/ This is an amazing organization that helps people in their journey of self-harm. And please know you are never alone!

Browse All Three Seasons Of The Ruby Hour Podcast: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLacrED2hLWqkN3ZLTv9OkaJ9mniVaw8pM

Season 2 Introduction: https://youtu.be/RDORob2IM2I

A Box Of Sharp Objects: https://youtu.be/eIACmInM4Bw

Mom Life, Virgin Love, and Moral Betrayal: https://youtu.be/pwMYbI3XsIs

The Mountain People: Saba and Asheville ASMR Story: https://youtu.be/4NbyWlz4vzI

For the family and friends' parents I mention in this episode, you know who you are, I love you, thank you for the beauty you've added to my life.

In this episode, we talk shop around the biggest fetish Shelby just found out about (this is a must-listen pro tip, ladies looking for a man), our recent brainchild collaboration "Fragile," do-overs from Jenny's time spent with her mom, the origins of the Bad Girls Club, and horror movies--the last place you'd expect to find epic music playlists. The queen of dance, Chief Mad Scientist herself Jenny Broe -- founder of Dance Lab Charleston comes on the show today, and we discuss starting a safe place for women to express their sexuality, Shelby's failed attempts at doing "the worm" at The Bad Girls Club auditions, and much, much more.

 

To BOOK one of the badass classes at Dance Lab - visit https://www.dancelabcharleston.com. 

 

To watch our recent creative collaboration music video, "Fragile" - depicting the woman entrepreneur's journey through COVID-19, visit https://www.rubyriotcreatives.com/fragile. 

 

To take a look at recent class recaps at Dance Lab or see when the Bad Girl Club auditions are -- check out https://www.instagram.com/dancelab_843 and see the deets on the SICKEST dance crew around -- The Bad Girls Club over at https://www.badgirlsclubcharleston.com/. 

Being raised on "I Kissed Dating Goodbye" to Kris Vallotton's "Purity: The New Moral Revolution," -- here's my story as a Bethel School of Supernatural Ministry graduate of the damaging effects of young and impressionable teens (both young men and women) following reckless dogma, growing up in cult evangelical purity culture, getting married as a virgin, and the moral betrayal against myself in purity culture. This podcast is a MUST-LISTEN if you want to learn about the damage purity culture does, have a loved one (or daughter) who grew up in this radical evangelical Christian phase in the 2000s, and how to escape it!

If you're fed up with purity culture damage, have someone you care about who's referenced Purity Culture, or are recognizing the damaging effects of purity culture in your life, then you need to listen to this podcast!

 

This episode is part of our limited series sound-scored intimate short-story sessions for this season of The Ruby Hour.

To see the visual story of this episode, and reflect on the journaling prompts and questions that accompany this episode, access the video podcast extras here: https://www.rubyriotcreatives.com/blog/mom-life-first-love-moral-betrayal

Browse all three seasons of our podcast, The Ruby Hour:    • The Ruby Hour Archives

Season 2 Overview: Season 2: Stories around the inner workings of spirituality, emotional resilience, and sexuality and self-image in times of uncertainty and unknown.

A Box Of Sharp Objects Not-So-Bedtime-Story: My Self-Mutilation Story: Turbulent Homelife & Making Childhood Trauma Your Medicine | The Ruby Hour

The Mountain People: Saba and Asheville ASMR Story: Mountain Dwellers: Saba & Asheville on The Ruby Hour Podcast

 

For the family I mention in this episode, you know who you are, I love you, thank you for the beauty you've added to my life.

 

This episode was recorded and produced in our dear friends' Davíd's AirBnB tree-top getaway in West Asheville -- if you're looking for an amazing mountain getaway - check out their sweet mountain hideaway: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/8362668 

 

Do you work late hours working in the hospitality industry and feel totally drained the next day? Well, we’ve got our girl Rachel Starling here with us today to talk all about that. This main chick knows all about the world of hospitality, from becoming a pro at talking with clients to working those brutal late hours.

In this episode, Rachel talks about:

• knowing how to speak to clients
• not taking things personally in a high-speed industry
• and the true power of self-love.

Rachel Starling On The Ruby Hour Show Notes

30:00 Who is Rachel Starling?

1:55 How Rachel got involved in the world of hospitality

10:30 How to be an introvert in a leadership role

13:07 Rachel’s secret super power

16:09 How to have productive and energetic conversations with clients

18:11 Having thick skin in the hospitality industry

24:54 Rachel’s message to the world

27:12 How to not let working late hours affect your mental health

31:07 What Rachel does for fun

33:40 Why doing things solo can be the best gift you ever gave yourself

35:56 Why Shelby can’t run in downtown Charleston

 

Visit Rachel at Parcel 32, and check out the restaurant at https://parcel32.com/ and https://www.instagram.com/parcel32/?hl=en

Have you ever thought your dog was an absolute maniac? Well, maybe it's not your dog after all.

Shannon Wooten is a world-renown hunting dog trainer, based out of Camden, SC. Her and her husband have taught me numerable lessons about working with dogs and myself. She will literally blow your mind with things you think you’re doing right by your dog…but actually you’d be surprised.

In today’s episode, we talk about:

• practical ways you can change your home life with your dog
• how to mind your dog’s manners…and your own

Shannon Wooten On The Ruby Hour Show Notes:

00:50 Meet Shannon Wooten!

2:12 Getting started with Palmetto Gun Dogs

6:26 Everything you’re doing wrong with dogs that you think is right

13:35 Enabling certain behaviors in your life

15:30 Is your dog a maniac? The one thing you might not be considering

20:10 Every dog has a purpose

23:35 Projecting negative energy onto your dog

25:38 There’s more than meets the eye: Creative ways to bond with your pup while living in a city

26:23 The impact Shannon and her team have on clients

27:40 Redneck yoga

29:20 Balancing work life when work is literally living at your home

31:52 Calling people on their dog $#!t

32:47 Implementing daily repetition in your dog’s life

41:05 Recognizing differences in breeds

41:30 How to train your puppy

47:19 Why it’s really not cute when dogs jump on you

Get in touch with Shannon and check out Palmetto Gun dogs on Facebook at @palmettogundogs and on Instagram at @palmettogundogs !

Do you hate social media most days? We’ve all been there, trust me. We judge ourselves and our lives constantly by looking at what we THINK people’s lives are like.

We’ve got another cat herder in the house today; the amaazzinngg Sunny Dublick is here to talk marketing! This cat’s got all the experience in dealing with not knowing what the heck she wanted to do as a career, and now she’s freaking crushing it by owning her own business!

In this episode, Sunny talks about:

• the perks of being your own boss
• prioritizing yourself and your own needs
• and the deep, dark world of social media

Sunny Dublick On The Ruby Hour Show Notes:

00:39 Meet Sunny Dublick!

1:20 Starting out in the marketing world

5:14 Working a flexible job

7:47 How Sunny balances her solopreneur work life and her personal life

12:03 How to come to terms with saying no to clients or projects

14:59 Sunny’s favorite form of self care

20:49 Social media shifts in today’s society

24:00 What people are actually looking for on social media

28:42 JOMO: Joy Of Missing Out…and taking care of yourself

41:30 Imposter syndrome: Who do you think you are?

43:40 Putting priorities on the back burner

50:20 Asking for help from professionals is not embarrassing

Check out Sunny's site and get to know her more at sunnydublick.com and @sdublickmarketing on Facebook!

We took a trip down memory lane with our good friend and wedding photographer Sol Basconcillo. This guy is literally the bomb, and we’re super excited to share some nuggets of his wisdom today with you!

In this episode, Sol takes photography to the next level by:

• advising photographers who are just getting started in the industry
• sharing all the tricks he has up his sleeve on a wedding day
• and encouraging a healthy work-family balance

Sol Basconcillo On The Ruby Hour Show Notes

0:43 Meet Sol!

1:40 Getting started in photography

4:23 How to transition into photographing weddings and events

5:20 Advice to couples evaluating their big day

6:46 Pro tips for photographers/videographers to stay alive on long shoot days

9:58 Who is Sol beyond the camera?

11:32 How to manage your business as a solo entrepreneur

13:21 Balancing work and family time

16:00 Are you an introvert or an extrovert?

19:08 Sol’s past life

22:55 Advice to couples who aren’t exactly camera hogs

25:16 The importance of "taking five” on your wedding day

35:44 Sol’s philosophy in energy positivity

40:21 Shifting in your business

43:08 Sol’s favorite Charleston venues

45:55 How to delegate funds for what you really want on your wedding day

Check out Sol and his portfolio at https://sol.photography/ and @solography on Instagram!

✨ Ever felt like you missed your chance? Like the window for a new adventure, a fresh start, or pursuing a long-held dream had slammed shut? ✨

Think again.

Meet Xochitl Cordova, a Nicaraguan-born beauty mogul who shattered those limitations and built a thriving wellness empire in the Latin community... in her fifties!

Xochitl is a Nicaraguan-born, Austin-based powerhouse. In just three years, she’s skyrocketed to over 250,000 followers on TikTok, where she’s become a go-to voice for holistic wellness for the Latin American audience. Her mission? To help people take charge of their health with informed, mindful choices. Now, she’s taken things a step further by launching her own line of holistic skin and hair care products, blending natural ingredients with deep cultural wisdom.

This episode is a powerful reminder that it's never too late to embrace your passions and create a life you love, no matter your age or background.

Visit Xochitl’s TikTok to see her latest beauty tips and perspective on beauty from the inside out, daily on her channel.

• 04:24 Holistic Health and Beauty Products

• 07:35 Empowering the Latin Community

• 10:29 Resilience and Reinvention

• 13:45 The Role of Conventional Medicine

• 16:40 Trapped Emotions and Healing

• 19:28 Embodying Feminine Energy

• 22:21 Entrepreneurial Spirit and Action

• 25:38 Navigating Hardship and Perseverance

• 28:32 Beauty Standards and Self-Worth

• 31:38 Flirting with Confidence

• 34:47 Fashion and Personal Style

• 35:37 Embracing Individuality and Self-Expression

• 37:06 The Impact of Social Media on Youth

• 38:34 Navigating Criticism and Online Presence

• 40:28 Balancing Personal and Public Life

• 41:56 The Power of Saying No

• 43:21 Choosing Aligned Opportunities

• 45:18 Shifting from Desperation to Abundance

• 47:41 Advice for Young Women in a Busy World

• 50:10 Building Confidence on Camera

• 51:36 Authenticity in Content Creation

• 54:23 Handling Haters with Grace

• 57:42 Transforming Envy into Admiration

• 01:02:26 The Nature of Confidence and Power

• 01:05:15 Self-Care and Balancing Perceptions

• 01:07:39 The Healing Power of Nature

• 01:08:49 The Importance of Self-Care

 

Are you an introvert finding yourself in an extroverted role in your job? This episode is for you! Erica Peper, founder of Peper Events, shares her journey on how to rock a luxury wedding planning service here in Charleston as an introvert.

In this episode, Erica shares:

• moving across the country
• learning to make new friends as a grown-ass woman
• some practical ways she likes to recharge after a big extroverted wedding weekend

Erica Peper On The Ruby Hour Show Notes:

1:02 Meet Erica Peper!

4:15 What herding kindergarteners and groomsmen have in common

5:30 Being an introvert in an extroverted job position

7:10 How to get your energy back after a draining work event

8:01 How to generate additional business from a “One Hit Wonder” industry

13:03 The real cost of going with “a good deal” instead of trusting your gut

15:55 The power of working with your squad

17:15 How to spread your baby-bird wings when you’re a grown-ass adult

18:58 How to not pay people to be your friends when you’re twenty-something

21:48 How to create an inclusive, collaborative community with partners in your industry

26:28 How to deliver exceptional service when shit hits the fan

33:13 Advice to couples when having sticky conversations about budget and family involvement

35:29 How to wheel and deal to get exactly what you want on your wedding day

39:53 Erica’s number one regret on her wedding day

41:00 That time Shelby gunned down all her bridesmaids

Visit Erica's website and check her out at http://peperevents.com/services/

Have you ever experienced physical pain from something that has emotionally hurt you? I think we can all say yes to that one. Today, we’ve brought in massage therapist Mark Foil. We have experienced his amazing work at first hand and can truly testify to this massage guru’s words.

In this episode, we dig deep into:

• how emotional trauma can trigger certain parts of our bodies
• how self-care is so important to someone who cares for others all day long
• and an amazing story about one of Mark’s most special patients.

 

Mark Foil On The Ruby Hour Show Notes

00:46 Meet Mark Foil

2:00 Origin of becoming a massage therapist

7:14 Recognizing the energy and tension of a patient’s body

11:13 How emotional trauma can physically affect your body

15:12 How Mark decompresses after a long day of taking care of other people

18:24 Energy forcefield

22:50 Energetically traveling back in time with clients

27:45 Mark’s dream client

33:49 Mark’s cold-blooded patient

42:16 How Mark enjoys winding down from a long day

43:47 The secret life of Mark

47:54 Balancing energy for self-care

 

Contact Mark Foil at markfoiljr@gmail.com to book an appointment with him!

Ever wondered what goes on behind DJ booths? We’re breaking it down *wink wink* with David Fox who shares his DJ experience at weddings and behind the scenes. We take it way back with our friend David and may even get a little off-topic…multiple times.

In this episode, David talks about:

       -the secrets to becoming the best DJ

       -why being a good MC is so important

       -and the inappropriate middle school trickery that got him to where he is today

David Fox On The Ruby Hour Show Notes

00:45 - Meet David Fox

1:47 - Origin of becoming a DJ?

5:00 - How to find legit employees that match your company

8:00 - If looks could kill: The secret to making a fantastic impression with your clients

11:55 - How to get comfortable using a microphone

17:03 - Shelby’s lav mic nightmare

20:23 - David’s videographer horror stories

26:40 - How to make David uncomfortable

32:33 - David’s three movies he’d take on a desert island

34:36 - Lord of the rings impressions and such

36:40 - David’s craziest nature story

37:20 - Boydholes

40:20 - Would you rather

42:17 - What DJs go through on wedding days

46:45 - A walk down David’s middle school memory lane

49:08 - The flasher

49:30 - David’s spirit animal

Visit the BunnDJ website and check them out at https://bunndjcompany.com/ and https://www.instagram.com/bunndjchs/?hl=en

If you’ve ever been in a role of leadership, yet haaaaate confrontation — this episode is for you. In today’s episode, we talk with Haley Kelly — mama of 2 little ones, and one of the most brilliant and soulful power-house planners here in our city. 

If you’ve ever wondered how to maneuver:

• scaling your business while balancing your home life and friendships,
• giving yourself permission to slow down and take time to recharge,
• how the heck to stay relevant in this #insta social media era 

You’re gonna wanna jump in this episode.

Listen now!

Haley Kelly On The Ruby Hour Show Notes:

00:38 Who is Haley Kelly?

1:40 How did you get to where you are today?

3:50 How to balance being a mom and a business owner

7:55 Working your way from the ground up

10:21 Working as a full-service wedding planner

12:21 Haley Kelly’s mantra to live by

13:55 Haley Kelly’s happy place

15:22 What the heck is a babymoon?

16:08 How to be assertive while hating conflict?

20:36 Haley Kelly’s lady squad

23:30 How to launch and scale a wedding planning business

27:12 How to stay relevant on social media

29:00 Best advice for a couple planning a wedding

31:08 How do you like to unwind?

32:14 Behind the scenes wedding stories

35:23 Haley Kelly’s wedding day

37:38 Wedding venues in Charleston, SC

40:27 Tips for handling family involvement in your wedding plan

Did you ever have teacup parties underwater? Today we introduce you to an alternate reality, the world of Leigh Webber. She combined her childhood love of water and her passion for photography into a successful business here in Charleston! In this episode, we talk about having an unusual service offering, adapting to constantly changing environments as a photographer, and becoming unique to your social media viewers in a world where anyone can take a picture.

The Ruby Hour With Leigh Webber Show Notes:

00:32 Who is Leigh Webber?

1:53 Why underwater photography is a totally different world

3:07 How this creative form of photography took on a life of its own

6:00 Diving into the unknown process of underwater photography

11:40 From a water baby to becoming an underwater photographer

12:08 What’s one of your favorite memories with water growing up?

13:16 Working with first-timers during an underwater shoot

15:25 How to stand out in a world where anyone can take a picture

18:58 How to adapt to changes that come with photographing underwater

22:05 The difference in shooting in the water versus on land

29:46 Keys to owning your own business and taking chances

31:06 Working with people who have a similar vibe and love what you love

33:09 Rolling with the punches during a shoot

35:18 What’s your happy place?

36:56 The struggle of traveling with heavy ass cameras

41:20 How to set yourself up to succeed as a photography business owner

Check out more of Leigh's work at https://www.leighwebber.com 

    Have you ever found yourself stuck in the weeds of growing your own business? Well, today we’ve brought in the BIG GUNS. Hilary Johnson, founder of Hatch Tribe, is the queen of supporting badass women entrepreneurs in Charleston.   In this episode, we talk about growing a business while also maintaining a personal life, becoming a pro at public speaking, and how to face the fears that come along with owning a business. Check out the community she's created at https://www.hatchtribe.com/ or on social at @hatchtribe .   The Ruby Hour Podcast With Hilary Johnson Show Notes: 00:42 Meet the genius behind Hatch Tribe 2:24 How did Hatch Tribe start? 4:12 Why women entrepreneurs are such a big deal 7:15 Early detection of badassery 9:42 How to allow your client to grow without getting too involved in their business 11:50 How to maintain your business while also taking time for yourself 13:12 How to get past your limiting beliefs when road blocks pop up 15:52 Daily routines and intentions to shift your energy throughout the day 20:37 How to become comfortable with public speaking and being in the public eye 23:23 How to deal with the haters and negative reviews 26:17 How to set goals without spreading yourself too wide 28:36 How to “break up” with energy draining clients 32:40 Getting past the fear of losing revenue when saying “no” to a client 36:09 Leveling up your sales game 40:49 Why video and face to face interaction will always trump text 43:20 The relationship to social media as a consumer AND as a business owner 45:16 Making investments in your business that could change your life

In today's episode, we interview the elusive animal, PJ Brown -- a brilliant cinematographer who happens to be based out of Charleston. PJ has produced and directed commercial content, music videos, and is also a long time friend in the wedding filming world.

In this episode we discuss origin stories involving funerals, nudist weddings, and pizza shops-- evaluating the soul values of projects and if that dream client is truly a "dream", and the power of leaving the camera at home to take in the real moment (even when you're in portfolio-worthy places.)

PJ Brown On The Ruby Hour Show Notes:

1:31 Our gigantic guest: Who is PJ Brown?

4:15 Pizza to cinematography: How did you start your journey in cinematography?

11:45 F*ck your gear list, I’ll take an elbow to the face

12:45 If you think everyone’s your client, you’re wrong.

17:00 The key to getting repeat business as a videographer

20:00 Thought Bazooka cameras

25:00 Impromptu Photographers: Family members with iPads

29:00 Is it a photo shoot or a wedding day? Time of your life or waste of money?

36:00 If you were handed a bajillion dollars tomorrow, what would you shoot?

45:45 When you’re not filming, how do you like to relax?

50:30 The face drop

52:00 The best technique with social media as a business owner (if you hate social media)

55:40 What’s the best advice anyone’s ever given to you?

57:00 How can people find you on social?

Check out PJ's incredible portfolio and get to know him more at Life In Rewind and on Instagram at @lifeinrewindfilms!

If you’ve ever had ghost or spirit experiences, and you’ve been scared or “unnerved” of these experiences- this episode is for you. We got weird in this episode and explored some of our personal first-hand experiences “beyond the veil” of our day-to-day lives, as well as discussing the emotional health demands of the event industry (and what you can do to nurture yourself to bounce back quicker.)

Buckle up for this episode.

Meredith Tanton is co-owner and principal designer at Sweet Grass Social -- an exceptional luxury event planning company here in Charleston SC. Meredith and her business partner Jacqueline have been in business for the past 11 years in Charleston and are truly some of the "OG"s of our event community; we've had the privilege of working alongside their incredible team and documenting their gorgeous events for several years now. Without further ado -- I give you the lovely Meredith Tanton!

Going through a rough break-up? Angry at your business partner/printer/boyfriend/toy poodle named Alfred that keeps pooping on your brand new rug? Have an idea that's a little "out there" and you're scared to launch? Are you a millennial launching a business but you think you’re too young, too inexperienced, too _____ to launch your concept?

If any of this is hitting home, this episode is meant for you.

Meet Cole Wadsten, twenty-something millennial entrepreneur, innovator, and founder of The Break Room: Charleston's first ever "rage room." 

What's a Rage Room, you ask?

It's exactly what you think it is -- A safe place where you go and smash shit. Choose your unique weapon of choice (crowbar, screwdriver, golf club, baseball bat-- you know, the things fantasies are made of) and then proceed to wail on items such as microwaves, box fans, china, TV's; even cars. 

Offering Something A Little Counter-Culture In A Traditional Market

Now, I needn't remind you we're in good ole Charleston, South Carolina -- a land laden with rich Southern tradition and heritage (which overall is a beautiful, beautiful thing), but at times can come with an undercurrent of conformity. So we've got parts of our community still dripping with nepotism, small-minded thinking, and strong resistance to anything considered "different;" then we've got Cole Wadsten over here launching a business that freely encourages letting out not-so-southern-charming emotions while listening to Ludacris. Think he may have ran into a little resistance?

If you have a trail you're meant to blaze in your heart, this episode is for you. 

  Low on time? Jump to the sections of the episode that appeal to you! Be sure to share in the comments your favorite take away!

1:00 How did The Break Room get started?

1:49 What exactly is a Rage Room?

2:40 What are the biggest take-aways

6:15 Why this doesn't encourage aggressive behavior.

8:42 Instrument of Choice- What you can choose to smash with

10:10 What are the responses from the public from opening a “rage room”?

11:25 How did this idea come about?

14:25 What other things are you up to?

15:10 How do you find and choose people to train who will facilitate the Rage Room?

16:45 The Key to running a tight ship- Don’t Be Weird!

17:50 “Don’t let your food get cold looking at someone else’s plate”

19:10 What is a moment in your life that has contributed most to where you are now?

21:00 Staying in your lane as a millennial: How to avoid getting caught comparing your life with your millennial friends

25:45 Being a twenty-something in 2020:

26:35 1990s Babies - How to cope with being in "young" and in business

27:49 The one question you should be asking yourself about running your business as a twenty-something year old.

31:00 Playing on Neopets in 2002 as a 12 year old compared to sexting in 2020

33:28 How being young in business is an ASSET, not a liability, and the power of picking up the phone

34:00 the most sought after skillset for the next generation's workforce

37:00 Ditching your phone in social situations, and mocktails: The lost social skillset and upcoming trends of the millennial generation

38:30 Why YOLO is bullshit: Stewarding your life well

39:05 What’s been your journey having a disruptive company in a culturally conservative market?

42:00 What advice do you have for someone who has their own disruptive idea?

46:30 How to find Cole Wadsten and Rage Charleston?

Visit The Break Room and schedule your smash party online or social -- @ragecharleston or on their website: https://www.tbrcharleston.com

Have you ever had that moment where you're stuffing your face with Nutella and Ritz crackers during a His Dark Materials binge-fest, and then one of those horrific starving children in Africa commercials comes on?

You look down, spoonful of Nutella trembling in-hand, and you have that moment where you feel like an utter and absolute asshole? If you've ever felt that pang of oh-my-gosh-what-am-i-doing-with-my-life-i' m-such-a-cold-hearted-lizard, I made this episode just for you.

Meet your new girl crush and today's podcast guest, Hope Caldwell. Founder of KLH Group here in Charleston, Hope is an advocate for bringing your soul back into the workspace (and especially corporate Fortune 500 workspace.)

This woman gets CEOs of multibajillion dollar organizations to put their hands in the dirt (literally) one half of the day, and then on the other half of the day throws the most baller 5-star gala event you've ever been to in your life.

In this episode, get ready to be liberated from the old "martyrdom thinking" that you have to take a vow of poverty to be a soulful person - and step into the truth: that you need to be wildly successful so you can radically bless and serve the things that light your heart on fire (and have your Nutella, too.)

Buckle up, buttercup, because we're about to dive headfirst into the chaotic world of modern masculinity and the tangled mess of gender roles! Forget the polite conversations and sugar-coated truths – we're ripping off the bandaid and exposing the raw anxieties and challenges men face today.

The #MeToo movement shook the foundations, and we're not shying away from the tremors it left behind. We're talking about the minefield of dating and relationships, where fear and confusion reign supreme. We're calling out the outdated scripts that leave men feeling lost and unsure of their place in the world.

Men have lost the rites of passage – Mikaal introduces ways modern men are forging their own path and reclaiming true masculine energy. It's time to unleash the primal power within, not the toxic version society tries to shove down our throats. We're talking about the raw, untamed energy that drives us to create, to protect, to lead.

And let's not forget the pressure cooker that women are facing today. They're expected to be the boss babe, the nurturing partner, and everything in between. It's a recipe for disaster, and we're calling out the double standards that fuel the flames.

But hey, it's not all doom and gloom. We're also dishing out some real-world advice on how to build genuine connections, even in this crazy world. We're talking about how women can empower their partners to step up and lead, if that's what they crave.

So, if you're ready to ditch the safe space and embrace the brave chaos, grab a martini, crank up the music, and let's get this revolution started!

 

Visit https://www.mikaalbates.com to see Mikaal's next workshop and event itinerary.

 

This show is produced by 🎥 Ruby Riot Creatives | Austin, Texas + Charleston SC Based Production Studio specializing in B2B + B2C Visual content marketing campaigns. If you need a fractional creative director to bring your brand narrative to life, need to get on camera but don't know where to start, or your tired of "winging it" with your marketing campaigns; email heyruby@rubyriotcreatives.com or visit  https://www.rubyriotcreatives.com to level up your brand positioning. Live a story worth telling today. 

#MasculinityRedefined #FeminismForAll #ModernRelationships #GenderDynamics #RitesOfPassage #TheModernMan #SocietalShift #EmotionalIntelligence #BeyondGenderRoles #PersonalGrowthJourney #MenAndFeminism #EvolvingMasculinity

This guy is who you want on your team during a zombie apocalypse. Chef Shaun Brian’s roots are in fishing off his dad’s sailboat and foraging on St. John, USVI. Named 30 under 30 by Zagat, nominated for a Rising Star by StarChefs and invited to cook in the James Beard House — Shaun is one of the most progressive and talented chefs of our generation, and he’s right “in our backyard” for us foodies here in Charleston. In this episode Shaun shares his unorthodox (and wildly entertaining) journey through his culinary career, what it’s like growing up in the Caribbean, funny stories cooking for celebrities, and offers some practical AF advice on building your team and growing as a leader.

It’s one thing to see a wedding photographer's work online, it’s a whole other thing to meet them in person and meet the person behind the lens. Today we interview Sara Boyd, one of our all time favorite friends in the wedding industry, who's came a long way from her roots of dropping cameras in glasses of chocolate milk. In this incriminating episode, Shelby tells all the bad and inappropriate jokes she knows, Sara shares horrific childhood tales as a tiny dancer, her most embarassing wedding day stories, and how unapologetically being her awkward, weird @$$ self has helped her find real down-to-earth connections with her clients.

In this inaugural episode of the Ruby Hour, we bring in the big guns — Jessica Rueger, Shelby’s personal self-mastery coach. In this episode Jessica shares some Jedi mind tricks on how you can kick butt and take names this holiday season— regardless of your child’s meltdown in the airport, Uncle Terry not wearing a shirt to Thanksgiving dinner, or "that b*tch"’s social media feed that’s constantly reminding you how much better her life is than yours.

Exactly how you pick yourself up, after your heart has been brutally ripped out of your chest? When your entire world becomes pressurized and catapulted into unexpected change? How do you find hope beyond a life with someone you thought was your person?

 

I had my dear friend, mentor, and colleague Jessica Rueger on the show a few months back to discuss exactly this. Reinventing her world after a decade-long marriage came to a close, Jessica shares answers to the most intimate questions I, ironically, now find myself seeking for myself.

• How do we move through grief?
• How do we not get lost in the abyss of loss?
• How do we shift our focus from beating ourselves up, blaming and shaming and replaying… to accepting and clarifying what does light our spirit up?
• What are ways to rebuild hope in an unknown chapter? 

This conversation is empowering, uplifting, intimate, and vulnerable on both of our parts. Jessica is one of the most talented executive coaches I have ever had the pleasure of working with in the past decade. She taught me tools yeeaarrrss ago that I continue to use daily to create the reality my heart and body desire for me to build. My hope is that you or someone you love who may be going through a tough time of self-examination or loss may find a vein of courage and strength from this tender conversation. Sending you so much love in this season, - Shelby

Is there a part of you that feels like you're playing it "small," settling for "good enough" in your creative field or business? Do you ever have that tinge of "you're made for SO MUCH MORE!" in your soul? That's because you ARE. In this inspiring video, music composer Sebastian Zuleta shares his story of refusing to back down and pursuing his art even when it's difficult.

Sebastian Zuleta's journey is an incredible example of how to never stop pursuing your dreams no matter what challenges come your way.

Through his music, he's meshed his love for music with his passion for entrepreneurship, and he's inspiring others to do the same. Watch this video to learn more about his story and the lessons he's learned!

This episode will encourage and challenge you to think BIG and go after what you REALLY want in your art.

Today's guest, Sebastian Zuleta, is an award-winning composer, and an Emmy-nominated and MPSE Golden Reel award-winning music editor -- our paths crossed last month in L.A. at a Film Premiere Q&A for his latest music composing work in the full-length feature Sci-Fi drama, "Unidentified Objects" - his soundscapes in this film BLEW. MY. MIND. Ten out of ten, y'all! Watch it on Amazon + be sure to LEAVE A REVIEW here, it helps this film immensely! : https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B0B8TZSZ3R/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r !!

 

Sebastian has over 15 years of experience scoring and music editing for a variety of films and television series, and has even collaborated with award-winning composers like Hans Zimmer, Gustavo Santaolalla, Germaine Franco and Terence Blanchard.

Most recently, Sebastian composed the music for the upcoming feature film Unidentified Objects, which has won several Best Feature awards at film festivals throughout the world. Sebastian also created the music for the animated short, Dreamsheep for which he won Best Original Score at the San Diego International Kids Film Festival and Cora, which was nominated for Best Music at the Santa Monica Film Festival.

He also produced the song Colombia, Mi Encanto composed by Lin-Manuel Miranda and performed by Carlos Vives for the international trailer of the Academy Award winning animated film Encanto. In addition to his distinguished work as a composer, Sebastian has had a fruitful career as music editor. Most recently editing the music for season 3 of Hulu’s hit series Wu Tang: An American Saga, HBO’s Father of the Bride featuring Andy Garcia and Gloria Estefan; and was part of the music team for Disney’s Strange World.

Sebastian’s diverse portfolio further includes editing the music for Netflix’s animated film Next Gen starring John Krasinski for which he earned the MPSE Golden Reel Award. He was also nominated for an Emmy for his work on HBO’s documentary Cries from Syria. Sebastian is also co-founder of Blue Rabbit Films, a production company based in Los Angeles.

Follow along with his latest work here: https://sebastianzuleta.com/  If you love this episode, let us know what stories or message stood out to you, and be sure to share with a fellow creative who could use a little boost in their trajectory. 

This episode is recorded, produced, and edited by our company, Ruby Riot Creatives. Visit https://www.rubyriotcreatives.com to see our latest projects and hear more episodes in The Ruby Hour Podcast and visit our previous season episode archives.

"I'm stuck in mom-mode/career mode/"I’m-too-busy mode” ...Why can't I get turned on?" Sound familiar? Today's episode is FOR YOU. Today we have the pleasure of having sensuality and sexuality educator Angie Byrd, on Ruby Hour Podcast. Discovering your erotic blueprint — what actually turns you on? The practical world of KINK! How do you PRACTICALLY bring up something you want to try with a partner that you’re scared they might FREAK OUT ABOUT? Learn how unbalanced masculine and feminine polarity in your sex life — shows up in other parts of your life, and how you can actually drop into your feminine energy to create polarity with your masculine partner as a go-getter/driven/I-Got-It/Miss Independent woman (with real-time tips and feedback around what that looks like, and stumbling blocks us power-women tend to revert to.) This is a girls’ girl conversation if I’ve ever heard it, and it’s a wildly delicious episode with some big takeaways you can apply to your sensual journey either solo or with your partner(s). Visit https://www.rubyriotcreatives.com/podcast for more juicy episodes.

How do you settle and recharge into the feminine [ease, gentleness, softness] while still conducting power as a woman entrepreneur when it comes to your business? 

In this episode, I interview Maren Liv Anderson Moore around:

• balancing the masculine and the feminine energy you bring to the table as a woman entrepreneur,

• how to "come down" from being in your head or in the masculine chronically in your business

• how to steward your "creative tension" or discomfort working through a struggle in your life

• all things inner-development/ shadow work / spiritual work and some things to look for to find a safe group setting to explore those deeper levels of yourself and

• life as a "textbook" enneagram Seven.

 

If you've ever spent any time with Maren, you immediately feel her warm, inclusive mama energy. In this episode we explore her journey with redefining the childcare space in Charleston. Maren founded Play Garden, creative arts learning center with a focus on childcare that appeals to different children's intrinsic learning styles and educational learning theories, AND complements so many parents who are no longer doing the nine-to-five work schedule and need something different for their family.

EMBRACING YOUR INNER B!TCH. ...Whaaat!?! 😈🙊💋😳 I stumbled across Canada-native Scarlet Jaxen one day going on some kind of feminine empowerment wormhole and saw her moving and embodying her "inner bitch". I was appalled, confused, inspired, and offended all at the same time. Embrace my inner bitch? What? She's allowed? We can speak about her? We can acknowledge we have some kind of ugly, ruthless bitch in us? Really? And, of course, I had to get her on the show.

In this podcast episode, Scarlet shares some thoughts that will invite you to a new level of compassion for yourself you may not have even thought was allowed.

 Understanding that part of you that is ruthless, gnarly, UGLY even -- can actually be one of your most faithful warriors, servants, and allies in helping you not settle into complacency in your personal and professional life and relationships. Have a listen!!

I want you to meet one of Charleston’s biggest rays of sunshine — Trinidad scorpion pepper delinquent, Surfer Babe, and one of Charleston’s top up-and-coming chefs — Lauren Furey. See more details about this episode over on https://www.rubyriotcreatives.com/podcast Lauren’s been coming up under the radar in the culinary scene here in Charleston this past few years - training under culinary legend Nathalie Dupree (one of the most prolific cookbook authors and James Beard award-winning chefs of our generation.) Lauren has such vibrant, soulful energy she brings to her cooking and conversations. In this episode, we talk shop around who she is in and out of the kitchen: - A visit to the principal’s office incident that deemed her the “pepper dealer” of her high school. - Mentors who taught her subtle details of elevating what she’s learned in the kitchen - Cocktails that have changed our lives This episode will make you hungry and thirsty not only physically but creatively, too, in your kitchen and craft! And if you’re not already following Lauren’s delectable Instagram feed or need a private chef for your upcoming event — connect with her over at @laurensfurey