From gigging musician to psychology grad and beloved teacher, Shawndell Marks shows us what it looks like to honor your creative calling—no matter where you are in life. This conversation is all about giving yourself permission to be heard.

www.shawndellmarksmusic.com

takeaways

• Creativity is a lifelong journey that never ends.
• Music has the power to evoke deep emotions and memories.
• Education can be a transformative experience, especially later in life.
• Overcoming fear is essential to pursuing one's passions.
• Success is defined by personal fulfillment and purpose, not fame.
• Being a single mom presents unique challenges but also opportunities for growth.
• Traveling solo can lead to significant personal development.
• Reconnecting with nature can be a powerful way to reset and recharge.
• It's important to follow your bliss and pursue what excites you.
• Teaching music can be as fulfilling as performing.

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Kelly Kendall joins me for a heartfelt conversation about identity, healing, and the magic of capturing someone’s soul through photography. We go deep into worthiness, self-acceptance, and what it means to truly be present in your life—on and off camera.

You can follow Kelly and her beautiful work at:
📸 @kellykendallstudios on Instagram and Facebook
📍 Prairie du Sac, Wisconsin

About Kelly:

Kelly Kendall is a portrait and branding photographer who helps women step into their power and be seen. At Kelly Kendall Studios, she creates an experience that goes beyond headshots—guiding clients to show up confidently in their brand, business, and life. With a deep love for connection and storytelling, she helps women embrace their worth, own their visibility, and step fully into who they are. Her work is more than photography—it’s about empowerment, authenticity, and showing the world the real you.

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Brett Topham believes local government can be where big problems get solved. We dive into his unconventional path—from hospitality to finance to politics—and explore his ideas for smart fiscal planning, public-private partnerships, and why a hundred-year-old pool might just hold the heart of a town.

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Amber Swenor trusted the quiet inner whisper—and it changed everything. In this episode, we talk about making bold moves, releasing external expectations, and building a life that feels as good as it looks. Tune in for a heart-centered convo on business, bravery, and what it means to be free.

Learn more about Amber Here:

https://www.amber-swenor.com/

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Kyle Martin started out in the skateboarding world, running a skate shop and park in Reedsburg, WI. But when a devastating flood washed it all away, he picked up a paintbrush—and never looked back. Nearly two decades later, Kyle has become a staple artist in Wisconsin, capturing its beauty through vibrant landscape paintings. In this episode, we talk about his winding journey from skate decks to easels, the mental game of creativity, overcoming limiting beliefs, and what keeps him inspired.

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What happens when you step away from the career you’ve built for decades? Shelley Mordini shares her incredible transformation—from high school teacher to intuitive medium, travel expert, and guide for those seeking deeper meaning in their lives.

https://www.barabootours.com/

shelleymordini@gmail.com

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Susie Moon never saw herself as a leader—until she became one. In this conversation, we unpack how she turned a love of connection into a thriving business, the lessons she learned from corporate life, and why being true to yourself is the best marketing strategy. Plus, she shares some game-changing networking tips for introverts and extroverts alike.

Find more info about Susie here:
https://susiemoon.net/

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What does it mean to truly savor life, even in the face of uncertainty and grief? My guest, Andrea Auten, is a storyteller, teacher, and widow who has learned to navigate life’s biggest transitions with grace and courage. We discuss everything from honoring the past to stepping into an unknown future and the lessons we can all take from her incredible journey.

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