Under the Oaks with Amy Romfo & Jenny Harrison – Détails, épisodes et analyse

You may recognize Melly Paxson as the fairy godmother from Disney's Descendants — but in this episode of Under the Oaks, we get to know the woman behind the role.

Melly joins us for a heartfelt, down-to-earth conversation about leaving Los Angeles during the pandemic and moving to Charleston without ever visiting first. What started as a leap of faith became a life-changing reset for her family, her faith, and her sense of home.

With honesty and humor, she shares about navigating Hollywood as a woman of faith, walking through infertility, and choosing sobriety on Christmas Eve 2020. Her story is a reminder that transformation doesn't always come with fireworks sometimes it begins with one quiet, brave decision.

In this episode, we talk about:

• Moving to Charleston sight unseen and why it felt like coming home
• Rethinking what alcoholism can look like and choosing freedom
• Motherhood, infertility, and embracing the unexpected
• Her love of interior design (including dreams of a muted pink house)
• A few fun behind-the-scenes moments from Descendants

This conversation is warm, real, and deeply encouraging, the kind that feels like sitting with a friend who's willing to share the whole story.

If you've ever wondered what it looks like to quietly change your life from the inside out, this episode is for you.

Subscribe, follow, and share with someone who needs this reminder today.

Follow Melly here: https://www.instagram.com/mellypaxson/?hl=en

What happens when you lose your job and decide to bet everything on a dream that feels impossible? When Jenny and I sat down under the oaks with Evan Cooper, that's exactly where we started. After being fired from his sales job, Evan chose to go all-in on content creation with 8,000 followers and $4 in his bank account. No backup plan. No viral moment. Just a decision.

In this conversation, he shares the raw reality behind building a social media presence from scratch — posting 150 videos that "nobody watched," questioning himself, and slowly discovering that trying to be impressive was actually holding him back. Everything shifted with one simple 22-second video about going to the movies alone. Not flashy. Not overproduced. Just honest.

We talk about the internal shift that mattered more than the algorithm and how authenticity became his secret weapon when he stopped trying to be "cool" and started being himself. The conversation moves into fostering rescue dogs (including the internet-famous Vader), coaching middle school basketball, and the life-shaping conversation he had with his mom in a Walmart parking lot that redefined why he creates in the first place.

• The power of consistent failure as a learning tool - How intentionally failing fast can accelerate your path to success.
• Finding your authentic voice - Why being vulnerable about loneliness and struggles creates deeper connections than highlighting wins.
• The importance of giving back - How helping others became both his content strategy and personal fulfillment.
• Building community in a lonely industry - Honest thoughts on the isolation that comes with content creation and how to combat it.
• Strategic content decisions - The intentional choices behind everything from his signature black shirt uniform to when he shares mental health updates.

This isn't a typical "how I went viral" story. It's an honest conversation about resilience, purpose, and using your platform to make others feel seen and heard. If you've ever felt behind, overlooked, or unsure whether to keep going, this episode is for you.

Follow Evan here: https://www.instagram.com/evcoop/

Do you feel like you're juggling a million balls in the air while trying to maintain a picture-perfect Instagram feed? You're not alone. In this episode, we sit down with Kate Strickler, the relatable voice behind Naptime Kitchen, to chat about the messy, beautiful reality of balancing authenticity and social media presence.

Kate opens up about her journey from sharing simple recipes during nap time to becoming a social media sensation with over 300,000 followers. We dive into the challenges of maintaining boundaries between real life and online content creation, and how sometimes stepping away from the screen is necessary for personal growth.

Highlights from our conversation:

• The evolution of Naptime Kitchen from a creative outlet to a thriving brand
• Kate's decision to take a social media break and how it reshaped her perspective
• Balancing vulnerability and privacy when sharing about family life online
• The process of writing her new book and tackling tough topics like body image and financial pressures
• Kate's refreshing take on aging and embracing life experiences

Key takeaways you won't want to miss:

• How Kate navigates the pressure to constantly create content while staying true to herself
• The importance of setting boundaries and protecting what's sacred in your family life
• Why sometimes the best recipes aren't just for dinner - they're for life
• Kate's insights on finding authenticity in a world of curated social media feeds
• The unexpected joys of stepping away from technology and embracing tangible experiences

Whether you're a content creator yourself or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes of building an online presence, this conversation offers a candid look at the realities of personal branding in the digital age. Kate's honesty and humor shine through as we explore the complexities of sharing our lives online while staying grounded in what truly matters.

So grab a cup of coffee (or your beverage of choice), and join us for this refreshingly real conversation about finding balance, embracing imperfection, and staying authentic in a world that often feels anything but.

Follow Kate Strickler https://www.instagram.com/naptimekitchen and read her new book, "I Just Wish I Had a Bigger Kitchen" https://a.co/d/dUK7nAf.

Ever wondered what it takes to build a baseball empire that's more about fun than just the game? Get ready to step up to the plate with Emily Cole, co-owner of the Savannah Bananas and founder of Bananas Foster. In this episode, we're sliding into home base with a conversation that'll make you rethink everything you know about America's favorite pastime.

Emily shares the wild ride of transforming a struggling team into a nationwide phenomenon that's part baseball, part fun, and all heart. From dancing players to grandma cheerleaders, discover how the Savannah Bananas are hitting it out of the park by putting fans first and fun front and center.

But that's not all, folks! We're also digging into Emily's personal journey as a foster mom and how it led to the creation of Bananas Foster, a nonprofit that's changing the game for kids in the foster care system. Get ready for some major league inspiration as Emily reveals:

What you'll learn in this episode:

• How the Savannah Bananas went from striking out to selling out stadiums across the country
• The secret sauce behind creating a sports experience that three generations can enjoy together
• Why putting "fans first" isn't just a catchy slogan—it's a business model that works
• How Emily and her husband Jesse balance running a baseball empire with raising a family on the road
• The unexpected joys and challenges of fostering, and how it shaped their family and business
• How Bananas Foster is using the power of celebration to change the narrative around foster care

Whether you're a baseball fanatic, a budding entrepreneur, or just someone who loves a good underdog story, this episode is guaranteed to knock it out of the park. So grab your peanuts and Cracker Jacks, and join us for a conversation that's as entertaining as a Savannah Bananas game itself!

"We are not who we are as a company without the fans. That's the name of the company, Fans First Entertainment. We remind ourselves every single day, every single person on staff stays humble because we would not be here without them."

Ready to see how a little creativity and a lot of heart can change the game? Let's play ball!

Follow more of Emily's journey here! https://www.instagram.com/emcole3

In this deeply personal episode, I open up about my journey with eating disorders and the path to healing that led me to Colorado for intensive therapy. It's a story of struggle, redemption, and the power of breaking free from the chains that once held me captive.

For years, I battled with body image issues and destructive behaviors, hiding my pain from those around me. But through a series of God-given moments and the support of an amazing community, I finally found the courage to seek help and confront the roots of my struggles.

A Journey of Healing and Redemption

• The vivid dream that sparked my decision to get help
• How a chance encounter on a plane affirmed God's presence in my journey
• The transformative power of EMDR therapy and heart prayer sessions
• The symbolic act of throwing away lies written on rocks into a river

Breaking the Silence

This episode isn't just about my story - it's a call to action for anyone struggling in silence. I discuss:

• The importance of positive self-talk and body image in parenting
• How to recognize potential signs of eating disorders in loved ones
• The value of seeking professional help and building a supportive community

Embracing Freedom and Purpose

I also reveal the profound realizations that came through my healing journey:

• Understanding my true identity as God's masterpiece
• The significance behind my new tattoos and their empowering messages
• How facing my past has given me a new purpose in sharing hope with others

This raw and honest conversation aims to inspire anyone facing similar struggles to seek help, break free from shame, and embrace the healing power of vulnerability and faith.    

Grab a seat for a relaxed convo with TeriLyn Adams, the content creator in the game since 2004. She opens up about swapping Mormon blogging for Christian mom life, moving from Utah to North Carolina, and keeping faith and online vibes authentic. 

We get real about motherhood, postpartum anxiety and depression, and trying therapy and meds (spoiler: Zoloft helped balance life at home and with her husband). Plus, her influencer playbook: making life easier for busy moms while juggling fashion, beauty, and lifestyle, with a big emphasis on staying true to herself. She also chats about lifting other women and creating flexible, mom-friendly opportunities.

What we cover:

• Honest, hopeful faith journey: leaving Utah, a new vibe, and staying grounded
• Mental health in motherhood: postpartum anxiety/depression, trying therapy, finding support
• Finding your lane as an influencer: keeping it simple for busy moms and balancing fashion, beauty, and lifestyle
• Empowerment and leadership: lifting other women and creating flexible work-life options

So tune in and you'll  receive smart tips for creators and moms navigating life's twists, paired with honest conversations about growth that stays true to your values. Come sit under the oaks for laughs, raw stories, and the push to own your unique path.

Follow TeriLyn here: https://www.instagram.com/terilynadams

Life's full of tiny nuggets of wisdom that can totally change the way we see things. In this episode of Under the Oaks, we're diving into the treasure chest of life lessons we've picked up along the way. Whether it's a fun movie quote, a piece of solid advice from someone we love, or just a funny, eye-opening moment, these nuggets bring us guidance, comfort, and even a good dose of reality when we need it most. Grab a coffee, settle in, and let's chat about the little bits of wisdom that make life a little sweeter!

From breaking down big goals into manageable steps ("Inch by inch, life's a cinch" - yes, even when you're staring down that mountain of laundry) to stepping beyond your comfort zone (because growth is usually uncomfortable), these truths remind us that sometimes the best progress comes from just taking one tiny step at a time. We also talk about challenging those pesky negative thoughts, truly listening to others, and practicing kindness even when someone's driving you crazy.

And of course, we'll remind you to embrace your quirks and be unapologetically you because everyone else is already taken, and honestly, nobody does it better than you. Whether you're just trying to survive Monday or aiming for a glow-up, these nuggets will give you practical tips and a few laughs along the way.

Tune in, and let's share our favorite wisdom nuggets!

Do you struggle to find time for fitness, mental clarity, and spiritual renewal all in one? In this episode of Under the Oaks, we sit down with Julia Powell, the inspiring founder of Freedom Studio in Charleston.

Julia shares her journey from competitive dancer to yoga instructor to studio owner, and how a powerful vision rooted in faith led her to create a space where people can experience true freedom through movement and spiritual growth.

You'll discover:

• How Julia's parents' advice shaped her career path
• The spiritual inspiration behind Freedom Studio's name and mission
• Why rest and Sabbath are integral parts of the Freedom philosophy
• Julia's approach to fueling her body and staying energized
• Lessons learned about leadership and self-reflection

• The importance of mental health in fitness and how Freedom incorporates uplifting messages into every class
• Why closing on Sundays was a bold but rewarding business decision
• Julia's perfect day off (hint: it involves the beach and burgers!)
• How slowing down and creating margin in life leads to more meaningful connections

Whether you're a fitness enthusiast, aspiring entrepreneur, or simply curious about building a purpose-driven business, Julia's insights will inspire you to pursue your passions and find freedom in unexpected places.

So grab your water bottle, lace up those sneakers, and get ready for a dose of motivation that'll have you dancing through your day!

Learn more about Freedom Studio Charleston and sign up for your first class free at  https://www.freedomstudiochs.com/ 

Follow Freedom Studio & Soulful Juls

Does your home sometimes feel a bit chaotic rather than peaceful? You're not alone! In this episode, we sit down with Christina Lee, the talented organizer behind Graceful Spaces, to explore some simple tips for creating a more harmonious and calming home environment.

Christina shares her journey from Chick-fil-A playground meetups to co-founding a thriving organization business with 32 employees across two locations. We dive into practical tips for tackling common household challenges, like managing Lego invasions and taming unruly shoe collections.

Key takeaways from our chat with Christina:

• The power of weekly resets to maintain order and teach valuable life skills
• How to create boundaries and systems that work for your family
• Strategies for preserving cherished memories without drowning in clutter
• The unexpected benefits of an organized home, from stress reduction to improved relationships

But this episode isn't just about color-coded closets and labeled bins. Christina opens up about her family's recent challenges, including her husband's cancer diagnosis and their upcoming move back to Austin. Her story is a powerful reminder of how an organized home can provide stability and comfort during life's storms.

Bonus organizational nuggets:

• The "maybe bin" technique for indecisive declutterers
• A clever system for preserving kids' artwork and school memories
• How to tackle sentimental items without getting emotionally derailed

Whether you're a naturally tidy person or more of a "Monica closet" type, this episode offers something for everyone. Get ready to be inspired to create a home that truly feels like your sanctuary!

"Your home is your biggest investment... loving where you live, having control of what's coming in and out of your home, being able to share responsibilities with people in your home and not take on the weight yourself, it eliminates stress." - Christina Lee

So, are you ready to turn your home from chaos to calm? Tune in, take notes, and prepare for some serious organizational motivation!

Learn more about Graceful Spaces 

https://www.graceful-spaces.com/

Ever feel like you're too old for certain things? Don't worry, you're not alone! In this candid and hilarious episode, we're dishing about all the stuff we've officially aged out of and we're totally fine with it.

As we navigate our 40s, we're embracing the changes that come with this season of life. From ditching late-night parties to saying goodbye to low-rise jeans, we're getting real about what we're leaving behind and what we're welcoming with open arms.

• Why sleeping on the floor or an air mattress is a hard pass for Jenny
• The unexpected joys of early nights and cozy clothes
• How our definition of fun has evolved (spoiler: it's way more low-key now)
• The importance of setting boundaries and saying 'no' without apologies from Amy
• Our newfound appreciation for alone time

We're also tackling some hot topics like sunscreen (it's non-negotiable now!), fast food after 10 PM (hello, indigestion), and the art of being authentically yourself.

• Embrace the changes that come with each life stage
• Find your tribe who loves your authentic self
• Create boundaries that allow you to prioritize what truly matters
• Let go of people-pleasing and embrace your true identity

Whether you're in your 20s, 40s, or beyond, this episode is packed with relatable moments and nuggets of wisdom. So grab your comfiest clothes, pour yourself a cup of your favorite bevvy, and join us for some laughs and insights on aging gracefully.

Remember, getting older isn't about giving up on fun – it's about redefining what fun means to you!