Lessons from a Girlfriend - Podcast interview with JILL MACKAY (and me!)

Often you can spot them across the room. Unaware of anyone nearby. They chatter, laugh and sometimes even cry. Their eye contact and body language convey that they are completely comfortable and are being their authentic self. They're not trying to impress anyone or really concerned with what others around them think. They're spending time together, making memories, making plans, solving problems, sharing life. They are girlfriends.

My girlfriend JILL MACKAY (fab jewelry designer, author and creative entrepreneur) decided that it was time YOU found out who I am. She decided that someone should interview me for a Girlfriendology podcast so that blog readers (or "bleaders"!) could find out why I started Girlfriendology and why I think promoting female friendship warrants leaving my job and dedicating my life! (I know she isn't the only one who wonders what is up with me and my dream of building an online women's community based on friendship!)

And, yes, I did get the turn the tables on her too. Hopefully you'll hear something that will inspire you to spend time with your girlfriends, and after hearing Jill and me, something that will amuse you and make you laugh. So here's my Lessons from a Girlfriend:

* FOLLOW YOUR PASSION - To be honest, almost every one of our Girlfriendology podcast guests is an amazing example of following your passion. From authors to podcasters, entrepreneurs to artists, each inspiring woman we've talked with had a new perspective on following their passion. Jill and I definitely follow suit. I'm passionate about making Girlfriendology an online community for women based on inspiration, appreciation and celebration of girlfriends. Jill is committed to creating amazing (and I do mean AMAZING!) jewelry designs. She fabulously talented!

* LAUGH AND CRY TOGETHER - Last year walking back from a tradeshow together, we laughed so hard that we could barely keep from peeing! (Sorry, but it was totally true!) Within the short course of a day, we were crying together over very emotional times in our lives. Both of these are wonderful things. If I have to cry, I can't think of anyone better than a dear girlfriend to be there with me (and possibly join me). And, laughing is just the best with a girlfriend - no fake laughter, just complete joy and giggles. Happy or sad, just serve mine up with a girlfriend by my side!

* BE HONEST, BE REAL, BE YOU - I asked Jill to critique something for me recently. I wanted, and most of all NEEDED, the truth. I knew I could get that from her. I also knew she would deliver the message in a kind, caring manner so my feelings wouldn't be hurt and my insecurities could handle it - but most of all, I needed her to be REAL. We all need friends like that - those we can count on to tell us if there is spinach in our teeth or gunk on our nose, to make sure we never go out in public with our size tag proudly displayed behind us or with navy tights and a black skirt on. (I needed Jill in my office the day I did that!) Be the friend that you want, need, admire. Be real. Be you. Be a girlfriend.

And, if you're going to the BEAD & BUTTON show in Milwaukee soon, stop by booth #1010. We'll post some audio messages and get some input from women at the show on their girlfriends and fun times together. Jill will be there and I'll join her on Saturday and Sunday. I guarantee you'll laugh and see some spectacular jewelry that Jill has designed. She is a 'superstar' to me. I don't care what she says! (-; Thanks Jill! You ARE my superstar friend!

So, if you see those women across the room who are ignoring everyone and just enjoying each other's company and conversation, don't be jealous. Smile for them. Then grab a girlfriend and have your own discussion. Girlfriends - life's better together!

Girlfriends helping Girlfriends (and kids) - BEFORE JUNE 1!

I just had the opportunity to interview award-winning, best-selling author BRENDA NOVAK for an upcoming Girlfriendology podcast (to hear our interview, check back next Thursday evening). Brenda's newest book, "Trust Me," is a wonderful romantic thriller about a group of women who work together to resolve injustice and solve crimes. Brenda not only has a passion for writing, she also has a deep desire to make a difference.

QUICK! Until midnight on May 31 (just one or two more days!), you can participate in Brenda's online auction for Juvenile Diabetes. All proceeds go toward research for Juvenile Diabetes and the prizes warrant your attention! Visit the online auction for opportunities to bid on one of a kind experiences (trips, meals with celebrities - like lunch with Debbie Macomber, featured in a recent Girlfriendology podcast) and wonderful items (like trips, jewelry, purses) to amazing opportunities like book critiques by famous editors/authors - literally, there are hundreds of fabulous prizes!

DON'T DELAY! Act now for these fabulous prizes that go to a great cause!

And, while you're in the 'spending for a great cause' mood, visit Beaded Hope. Jennifer Davis of Beaded Hope did a video interview with us recently and gave a 15% discount for any purchase from BeadedHope.com until June 1! Just enter "GOGIRL" in the promotional code and you'll receive 15% off - and you'll employ women in South Africa as well as help with food and medical supplies - and you get some great beaded jewelry/accessories. (Talk about a win-win-win situation!)

You know how it is. You find out a girlfriend has a passion for a great cause and you just have to be there for her to help her out. Here is our opportunity to help out wonderful organizations and to do so in honor of these inspiring women (Brenda and Jennifer, in this case) who believe in making a difference in the world! Thanks Girlfriends!