Explore every episode of the podcast Bloom Bright with Kelly

How do you go from reporting the news to writing your own book series? This week, Kelly sits down with award-winning author Andrea Thome to talk about her journey from sports reporter to novelist and how she found her way into the world of writing and publishing.

Andrea takes us behind the scenes of the writing process—from where she finds inspiration and creates her characters to what it actually takes to turn an idea into a finished novel. She also shares the story behind Mine Again, the first book in her new Sunflower Series, and what readers can expect from this next chapter.

Plus, Andrea talks about life beyond the books, becoming an empty nester, what’s next, and of course, what’s making her Bloom Bright right now.

Shelly is back, and this episode is all about what we’re loving right now! We’re talking current trends, the skincare, beauty products and treatments we’re trying, things that are actually worth the hype, and the latest kid obsessions—including the squishy craze and everything you need to know about NeeDohs.

It’s a light, fun sister catch-up filled with current favorites, things we’ve been influenced to buy, and a few things we definitely didn’t need…but are very happy we bought. Consider this your girlfriend guide to what we’re into right now!

Dr. Mira Albert is the founder of Brush Pediatric Dentistry, a mom of two boys, and an entrepreneur who turned her passion for working with kids into a thriving practice with two locations.

Mira joins Kelly to share her journey from dental school and pediatric training to taking the leap and opening Brush Pediatric Dentistry, growing her business, and navigating motherhood along the way. They also get into the dental questions every parent wants answered—including what to do in a dental emergency, something Kelly learned firsthand when her son Austin had one and Mira saved the day! Plus, Mira shares simple tips for keeping kids’ teeth healthy, a few memorable stories from her career, and joins Kelly for a fun round of rapid fire.

This week on Bloom Bright, I'm joined by the founder of Once Upon a Dollhouse and Dollhouse Social to talk about her journey from public relations to content creator to entrepreneur. We dive into how she built her signature lifestyle brand, developed her personal style, and turned years of experience into a business that helps other brands grow with purpose.

We also pull back the curtain on social media today—how it's evolved over the years, what actually makes a brand stand out, and why authenticity and strategy matter more than ever.

Plus, Caitlin shares entertaining tips, travel favorites, rapid-fire fun, and of course, what's making her bloom bright.

Sending your child off to college is exciting, emotional...and a little overwhelming. Whether you're preparing for your first move-in day or your fifth, this episode is full of practical advice and reassurance.

Kelly sits down with friend and mom of five, Lisa Doyle, to talk about everything from dorm shopping, move-in day, and saying goodbye to homesickness, care packages, Life360, boys versus girls, flying versus driving, and all the little things they wish parents knew before their kids left home. Lisa also shares plenty of funny stories and hard-earned wisdom from sending all five of her children to college.

If college is in your family's near future, this is one episode you'll want to save.

What does it take to rise to the top in one of the most demanding careers imaginable? This week, Kelly sits down with Margaret "Mimi" McGreal, who spent more than 26 years with the Illinois State Police and became the first female Colonel of the Division of Patrol.

Mimi shares her incredible journey through a male-dominated profession, the leadership lessons she learned along the way, and how she stayed calm while making split-second decisions in high-pressure situations. From unforgettable stories on the job to her surprising stint as a Jerry Springer bouncer, this conversation is equal parts inspiring, insightful, and entertaining.

Whether you're leading a team, navigating challenges at work, or simply looking to build more confidence and resilience, you'll walk away with practical wisdom and a whole new appreciation for the people behind the badge.

In this episode, Kelly sits down with Olya Borsuk, co-founder of InfuseWell Concierge, to share her journey of building a successful wellness business and helping clients take a proactive approach to their health. From IV therapy and medical weight loss to regenerative skincare and healthy aging, Olya breaks down some of today's biggest wellness topics in an approachable and easy-to-understand way.

But this conversation goes far beyond wellness. Kelly gets to know the woman behind the business as Olya shares her personal story, balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship, her favorite wellness splurges, and the habits she swears by. It's a fun, candid conversation filled with practical tips, plenty of laughs, and a glimpse into the life of a woman who's passionate about helping others feel their best.

The episode wraps up with a fun rapid-fire round and the questions that reveal what's making Olya bloom bright in this season of life.  

Mahjong may be having a major moment, but for Michelle Dermenjian—better known as Missy Mahjong—it has always been about so much more than the game itself. In this episode, Michelle shares how she turned her love of mahjong into bringing people together through connection, conversation, and a little friendly competition.

We talk about the story behind Missy Mahjong, the fundraising events and charitable work she's passionate about, and why games are one of the best ways to unplug and reconnect with the people around us. We also dive into her love of needlepoint, favorite games for every occasion, and all the fun things she keeps in her bag.

Whether you're a seasoned mahjong player or have never touched a tile, this conversation is packed with ideas for bringing more fun, friendship, and connection into your life. 

This week on Bloom Bright with Kelly, I’m joined by Heather McCarthy, co-founder of The Set Fitness, for a real conversation about fitness, nutrition, consistency, and finding healthier habits that actually fit into real life.

Heather shares her journey from fitness instructor to gym owner, along with simple, realistic tips for women who want to feel stronger and healthier without striving for perfection. We also talk about raising confident daughters in today’s social media-driven world, staying motivated through different seasons of life, and the small habits that can make a big difference over time.

It’s honest, relatable, and full of practical takeaways you can actually use.

In this episode of Bloom Bright, Kelly sits down with Shannon Keating for a conversation about living with purpose in every season of life.

Shannon shares her journey from growing up in a faith-filled, close-knit family to building a life centered around her own values of faith, family, and service. As a wife of nearly 25 years, a mom of four entering the almost–empty nest stage, a Physical Therapist, business owner, and health coach, Shannon opens up about what it really looks like to manage a full life with intention.

Together, they talk about staying grounded when life is busy, prioritizing health after years of putting others first, trusting God in big decisions, and finding joy in both the everyday moments and the transitions that come with each new season.

If you’re looking for encouragement to slow down, refocus, and live more intentionally, this episode will leave you feeling inspired to bloom bright right where you are.

In this episode, I sit down with Carmen Rivero, founder of People Living Healthy and a certified menopause specialist coach, to have a real, honest conversation about what’s actually going on during perimenopause. We’re breaking down the biggest myths, talking through the symptoms no one warns you about—from brain fog and anxiety to sleep and weight changes—and sharing what truly helps when it comes to feeling like yourself again.

Carmen brings a unique perspective after spending over 20 years living an active, adventurous life in Southern Spain before returning to the Midwest and stepping into her “third chapter.” Together, we talk about how midlife isn’t something to dread—it’s an opportunity to reset, refocus, and redefine what you want moving forward.

We also dive into manifesting your vision in midlife and why this phase of life can be one of the most powerful yet.

In this episode, Kevin joins me as we break down our trip to St. Barths—an island known for its yachts, celebrities, and major hype.

We had been wanting to go for a while and finally decided to see for ourselves if it really lives up to everything you hear… and let’s just say, we have thoughts.

We’re sharing everything you need to know—from how to get there and where to stay, to our favorite restaurants, beaches, shopping spots, and how to get around the island. Plus, we’re talking about what surprised us, what we loved, and what we’d do differently next time.

If St. Barths is on your list—or you’re just curious what it’s actually like—this episode is your full, honest breakdown.

In this episode, I’m joined by Grace Rodi, Miss Illinois USA 2024, to talk about a world that so many people are curious about — pageants.   We’re breaking down the biggest myths and stereotypes around pageant culture, what it’s really like behind the scenes, and how competing shapes confidence, resilience, and the ability to walk into any room with presence. We also talk about the specific skills pageants teach — from interview prep to handling rejection — and how those lessons carry into real life, careers, and even experiences like sorority recruitment. If you’ve ever wondered what pageants are really like — or what they can teach you — this episode is for you.

In this episode, Kelly sits down with luxury travel advisor Sheila McNaughton of Elysian Travel. Before entering the travel industry, Sheila worked as a television producer, including time with The Oprah Winfrey Show, and today she brings that storytelling mindset to designing unforgettable travel experiences for her clients.

Kelly and Sheila talk about how great trips are really planned, travel trends she’s loving right now, and simple tips to make your next vacation more seamless, meaningful, and memorable. Whether you're planning a big adventure or just dreaming about your next getaway, this episode is full of inspiration.

In this solo episode, I’m reflecting on everything season one of this podcast has taught me — from starting messy, to pushing through fear, to realizing just how powerful community really is. This season stretched me, surprised me, and helped me grow in ways I didn’t expect… and I’m sharing it all. If you’re in a season of growth, uncertainty, or starting something new, I hope this episode reminds you that you don’t have to have it all figured out to begin. Thank you for being here and for blooming bright with me.

In this episode of Bloom Bright, Kelly sits down with Ashleigh Stuck, a recent college graduate navigating the exciting — and often overwhelming — transition into adulthood. From graduating high school at Lyons Township to attending Baylor University during the challenges of COVID, Ashleigh shares her honest journey of growth, faith, and self-discovery.

Ashleigh reflects on trying new things, learning through failure, stepping into leadership, and staying rooted in her faith through seasons of uncertainty. Now back in Chicago and beginning her career, she opens up about friendships, identity, purpose, and what it means to trust God while figuring out what’s next.

This episode is an encouraging listen for young women in the in-between season — learning to grow, trust the process, and bloom right where they are.

In this episode of Bloom Bright, I’m joined by Jennifer Steinhagen, the creator behind @bookandachai—a cozy corner of Instagram curating a reader’s lifestyle through books, slow moments, and intentional living.

Jennifer and I talk about how reading became such a meaningful part of her identity, how @bookandachai came to life, and what it’s really like building a community in the online book world. We dive into her reading habits, how she manages to read so many books, and her tips for anyone who wants to make reading a bigger part of their life—without pressure or perfection.

From favorite genres and unexpected five-star reads to the joy of sharing books online, this conversation feels like two friends settling in with a warm drink and a great stack of books.

If you love books, cozy routines, and the idea that reading is more than just a hobby, this episode is for you.

In this episode, I’m joined by Mary Beth Joutras, the Chicago-based fashion blogger behind @mjstyle.me. Known for her classic yet on-trend style, Mary Beth shares how she mixes high and low fashion, builds wearable everyday outfits, and shops with intention for real life. We talk travel style, investment pieces, designer dupes, and simple ways to get dressed with confidence at any stage of life.  

In this episode, I’m joined by my husband, Kevin, for an honest and easy conversation about marriage, partnership, and growing together over time. We start with the story of how we met—and how we almost never saw each other again.

From there, we talk about what we’ve learned along the way, where our strengths lie, where we still grow, and what it really looks like to support each other’s dreams behind the scenes—especially while building Bloom Bright.

In this episode, I’m sitting down with my dear friend Denise — an orthopedic surgeon and someone who’s been part of my life through many seasons. We talk about how we met, how our friendship has grown and stayed strong over the years, and the adventures we’ve shared along the way. Denise also shares what led her to orthopedics and her professional perspective on aging gracefully, staying active, and taking care of our bodies as we get older. It’s a conversation about friendship, movement, and showing up well for the lives we’re living now.  

In this episode, Kelly sits down with her friend Angie for an honest conversation about navigating change later in life. From making new friends as an adult to moving to a new community, juggling a full-time career, and guiding kids through the college transition, Angie shares thoughtful insights and encouragement for women stepping into new seasons. This episode is all about connection, courage, and blooming bright through life’s transitions.

In this special Christmas Eve episode, Kelly sits down with her dear friend Christine to celebrate friendship, shared travel adventures, and the joy of walking through life together. Christine shares the heart behind founding Together at Peace and the launch of the Comfort Club, a space created to offer comfort and connection. Cozy, honest, and full of heart, this episode is a reminder that friendship is one of the greatest gifts.  

In this episode, Kelly sits down with her dear friend Sarah for a heartfelt conversation about their friendship—from meeting in college to where they are today—along with motherhood, personal growth, and showing up authentically through seasons of change and connection.  

 In this holiday episode, my sister Shelly joins me to share traditions, favorite finds, and the stories that make this season special. Cozy, fun, and full of sister energy.  

Kelly sits down with her sister Shelly for a fun, honest conversation about sisterhood, motherhood, family traditions and growing up together. A light, heartwarming episode filled with laughs, memories, and real-life insights.

In this debut episode, Kelly shares the inspiration behind Bloom Bright—a movement created to encourage women to step into their best, boldest, and brightest selves. She opens up about the journey that led her to launch the brand, the mission behind the podcast, and what listeners can expect in future episodes. This heartfelt introduction sets the tone for a community rooted in growth, confidence, and blooming brighter together.