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GIRLFRIENDOLOGY CONTESTS!

Celebrate your female friends in our Girlfriendology Contests! Now there's more ways to WIN! Submit your favorite female friendship story to Girlfriendology (via the form/email), leave a voice mail with your story at 206-202-9005 or post a comment on our iTunes site. For the voice mail, please leave your email address (spelled out please!) at the end of the message. (So, for example "Hi! This is Christine and I have a great story about my sister Penny ..." And don't forget your email address so we can contact you for a prize.)

And, we have lots of PRIZES! Visit Girlfriendology.com. Sign up for our newsletter and listen to our podcasts for the stories and inspiration others have shared!
Showing posts with label podcast. Show all posts
Showing posts with label podcast. Show all posts

Monday, June 16, 2008

Girlfriends ... Remember Who You Wanted To Be!


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Why not remember who you wanted to be ... and then become that?! As girlfriends we have the opportunity to inspire, encourage and support each other in the journey of life as we hopefully strive for happiness and the possibility of being the person we wanted to be as a sweet, innocent child.

Listen in to the newest Girlfriendology podcast with JODY ENGLAND, from BuzZen for inspiration on how to achieve your goals and live your best life. Or as she describes it, experience what happens when the Law of Attraction meets Girls Night Out!

Have a perfect week. Make progress on your dreams and share the journey with a girlfriend.

p.s. For extra girlfriend support, Jody offered a two-month free membership in "The Hive" - the community of BuzZen girlfriends. Visit The Hive for your free membership.

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Sunday, June 15, 2008

Lessons from a Girlfriend - Podcast with JODY ENGLAND, BuzZen Co-founder

It's no 'secret,' the Law of Attraction caused quite a buzzzzz a few years ago. Where did that energy go? How did/can women use the Law of Attraction to make 'real' changes in their lives?

JODY ENGLAND, co-founder of BuzZen, joined us on the latest Girlfriendology podcast to help us put the Law of Attraction in action! Hear how BuzZen provides community, conscious gifts and coaching - all key elements in making the rest of your life radically different than had you not heard the 'buzz.'

Jody studied the Law of Attraction and, along with her girlfriend Kim Yardlay, decided to make the Law of Attraction a reality for all of us who aspire to living life to our potential. A successful entrepreneur and former therapist, counseling at-risk families, children, and individuals, Jody has transformed her unique blend of experience as a leading voice in both the business world and the nonprofit arena, to empowering women to grant themselves permission to unlock their personal power.

Together Jody and Kim founded BuzZen. BuzZen is a company founded on the principles of contribution and inclusion, designed to appeal to women of all backgrounds, religions and ethnicities and welcome one and all. They believe that through connecting at our deepest level of “sister,” we are all empowered and enriched.

Before we share any more, let's look at these 'lessons from a girlfriend' from our podcast interview with Jody England of BuzZen:

* REAL CHANGE HAPPENS WITH GIRLFRIENDS - As Jody mentioned in the podcast, we can make change on our own but often it doesn't make a difference since there is no one to hold us accountable, encourage us and help us through the process. Unless, of course, you make the change in your life WITH your girlfriends. BuzZen does this by creating a program for small groups of women to go through the process in the BuzZen box and make the transformation together. (The BuzZen Box was featured in the Academy Award Nominee bags!)

* HAVE FUN! - I'll just stereotype here ... when women get together, we almost always have FUN! Of course the same is true for women in "The Hive" (the BuzZen community). Not metaphysical or magical, they're really all about the friendships and fun (oh, and bee-ing transformed which is a wonderful change to accomplish with your girlfriends!). As they describe it, it is like the Law of Attraction meets Girls Night Out!

* PUT THE LAW OF ATTRACTION TO ACTION - The popularity of 'The Secret' was made hugely popular on Oprah. It wasn't just the celebrity endorsement, the Law of Attraction is powerful - that is, if it is actually put into practice. So many of us didn't quite grasp how to use this way of manifesting our dreams into a real, day-to-day practice. BuzZen is a practical guide to putting the Law of Attraction into action in our lives on a daily basis. Now that's powerful!

Listen in to our wonderful conversation as we explore how the Law of Attraction is actually put into action to make a wonderful transformation in our lives. And, hear how having other women on the same journey can be part of 'The Hive' and inspire and challenge each other to reach greatness!

You can be part of the 'The Hive' too! Jody generously offered a free two month membership to 'The Hive' (the interactive online community of women BuzZen members!). So try it out and see what all the Buzzzz is about!

Thanks Jody! Check out BuzZen and I'll meet you at The Hive!

On our next podcast, the winners of the May Girlfriendology Contest share their inspiring stories! And, don't forget to enter the June Girlfriendology Contest! We have over 35 prizes and just ask for you to send a story about an amazing girlfriend or a friend who has gone out of her way for you to contest@girlfriendology.com or leave a message (with your email address spelled out) at 206-202-9005. Check out all the great prizes and send in your girlfriend story!

Spend time with the 'right ' Girlfriends!

Funny, but the more we explore 'girlfriendship,' the more we realize the value and importance of our friends. Whom we chose for friends and who we are as a friend, has wide impact on all aspects of our lives.

Read the following blog for Lessons Learned from Girlfriend podcast interview with DEBI SILBER. And, read this article that Debi shared with us:

Who You Spend Time With Determines How You Feel
by Debi Silber

Tell me who you spend your time with and I’ll tell you how you feel. Sounds impossible? It’s really not. You see, we often take on the feelings, behaviors and attitudes of those we spend time with. For example, let’s say you have a friend or coworker who’s always complaining. She’s speaks negatively about her body, her job, her relationships and her life. She looks forward to spending time with you because it gives her an opportunity to vent and find relief. Once she’s through, she feels lighter, freer and ready to go on with her day. She enjoys speaking to you because you’re a great listener, enabling her to be heard and valued. That works for her but how do you feel? Chances are you feel drained, deflated and uninspired. Although your intention was to be a good friend, once you became involved emotionally in your friends negativity, you were brought right down with her.

Now on the other hand, let’s say you have plans to see a friend who is lighthearted, enthusiastic and embraces life with eagerness and zest. Just thinking about this friend brings a smile to your face because you know you’ll be having fun and enjoying each other’s company. After your time together, you’re excited about the rest of your day. You want to capture every moment and see all the beauty that’s around you. Your friend may not have intentionally tried to alter your thinking but her positive approach and attitude was infectious.

Which person is better for your health? Studies show that positive thinkers have a 55% lower risk of death from all causes and 23% lower risk of death from heart failure. That’s not to say that the more positive person doesn’t experience anything unpleasant. In fact, the positive, optimistic person may have experienced more unfortunate situations than the negative, pessimistic person. The result of these experiences however leaves the positive thinker with a greater appreciation, perspective and sense of gratitude. They are grateful for what they see and have because they may have something less pleasant to compare it with. When they encounter a stressful situation, they look for ways to improve it versus letting it consume them. When a problem arises, they use it as an opportunity to find the most appropriate solution, rather than dwelling or magnifying all that’s gone wrong.

The negative person works much differently. They expect negative results and when it happens, it only confirms what they’d originally predicted. They’re more comfortable judging, gossiping or criticizing because putting others down offers them some relief from their pain. The negative person maintains the role of “victim” in a script she’s written for herself. She feels other’s are responsible for her “lot in life” and often uses it as an excuse to stay exactly where she is.

Within each of us is a broad range of emotions. An optimist doesn’t only experience joy and the pessimist doesn’t only experience negativity. It’s just that the optimist chooses to expect happiness, success and pleasure and as a result, that’s what they find. The pessimist chooses to replay negative thoughts which lead to negative results. It’s a choice. We choose how we want to think, feel and act. Although we may be conditioned to think or react a certain way, if we don’t like the results it is our choice to change. That’s why if we’re working towards changing the way we think, feel and react, it’s important to be careful about the people you’re spending your time with. Look for like minded people who support, encourage and inspire you. Limit your time with people who drain, upset and frustrate you.

This is your life. You are the driver of your car on the road to fulfillment, greater purpose and happiness. While there may be many detours, you have the power to steer yourself in whichever direction you choose to go. If you want to feel good, steer yourself towards an optimistic perspective and let your relationships support your cause. If you choose pessimism, misery loves company and you’ll find many people welcoming you into their negative club. Life is a journey and we don’t travel alone. Who are you bringing on your ride?

Debi Silber, MS, RD, WHC is a Registered Dietitian, Certified Personal Trainer, Whole Health Coach and the President of Lifestyle Fitness, Inc. For nearly 20 years, Debi’s worked exclusively with moms to encourage them to become fit, healthy and happy through gradual, lifestyle change. Debi’s also known as “The Mojo Coach” because she inspires and empowers overweight, overwhelmed and unfit moms to “get their mojo back!” For more information on the Lifestyle Fitness Program, please visit Lifestyle Fitness Inc.

COPYRIGHT © 2008 LIFESTYLE FITNESS INC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED


Thanks Debi for the great podcast interview and your inspiring article and book. And thanks for positively impacting our mojo!

Thursday, June 12, 2008

Lessons from a Girlfriend - Podcast with DEBI SILBER, 'the Mojo Coach'

Stress, work, life, hormones, finances, health, weight, relationships ... so many elements affect our 'mojo.' Thankfully we have our girlfriends to help us adjust it and bring up our mojo when we can't do that on our own.

DEBI SILBER, MS, RD, WHC is a Registered Dietitian with a Master's degree in Nutrition Science. She's a certified personal trainer, whole health coach, lifestyle expert JUST FOR MOMS and busy mom of four children. Debi has been working exclusively with moms for nearly 20 years, inspiring them to achieve greater health, fitness, wellness and happiness through her Lifestyle Fitness Program. (Check out her new book, The Lifestyle Fitness Program: A Six Part Plan So Every Mom Can Look, Feel and Live Her Best!) She's known as "The Total Mojo Coach" because it's her mission, passion and greatest thrill to inspire unfit, overweight and overwhelmed moms to get their mojo back!

In our podcast with Debi, I had to access my mojo and what areas of my life aren't in sync with my goals and supporting the life I want to live. Listen to Debi's podcast to track your mojo and hear these 'lessons from a girlfriend:'

* LIVE YOUR BEST WHOLE LIFE - Debi takes a holistic approach to life - physical, spiritual, emotional, relational, fitness and stress control. Debi gives a great example about six holes in a bucket and how each one needs to be filled. She helps women look at all the areas of our lives that need to be in balance for a healthy, happy life.

* REALISTIC & DO-ABLE - As a mother of four kids (and four dogs) and a Whole Health Coach, Debi understands my and your situation. No more "you just don't understand" excuses - Debi understands. In the 20 years that she's worked with busy moms, Debi knows the challenges and struggles but, fortunately for us, she has 'do-able' solutions for every lifestyle and situation.

* GIRLFRIENDS LEARN FROM EACH OTHER - Debi has learned from the moms she has worked with, as they have learned from her. This podcast hopefully introduces some ideas to positively impact your mojo. (It did mine!) I'm just thankful for inspiring girlfriends like Debi who are there helping us "become the woman we always hoped we would be." (As Debi shared in our podcast.)

Actually, I could go on and on about lessons learned from Debi but I think you'll learn your own lessons from Debi's site, her unique charity and Debi's book.

Thanks Debi for the great podcast interview and for inspiring us to take charge of our mojo (and sharing the tools to do that!). I love how you inspire women to change their lifestyle to look, feel and live their best!

Saturday, June 07, 2008

NEW PODCASTS - Carrie Runnals and Marybeth Bond

I'm on the road right now (lovely storms over Milwaukee today, I was in a Beading show locked in the convention center!) and unfortunately the audio files for the newest podcast didn't travel quite so well. So, come back on Wed. evening when I'm sure we'll be back in business for the inspiring video with DEBI SILBER, the Mojo Coach. Get your Mojo Meter rising!

But, neverfear! We have posted two new and improved versions of previous podcasts. (The audio/intro were improved so it is much better listening - listen in to hear for yourself!) So, if you haven't heard them or if it has been a little while, come get some inspiring from these amazing girlfriend authors and experts:

* CARRIE RUNNALS - Founder of Words To Mouth, a website with book reviews and behind the scenes chats with great authors. Carrie is also one of the Diva Cast, a podcast with five, fun, fabulous, forty-something friends who share their lives and laughs with thousands of online girlfriends!

* MARYBETH BOND
- Author of The Gusty Traveler and several other women's travel books talked with us on the growth of women's travel and fun ideas for girlfriend get-aways.

Listen in! And come back next week for Debi and her wellness plan that can make your life, health and mojo better!

June PRIZES - Lots! Like the May Girlfriendology Contest Prizes!

* CONTEST: Share a girlfriend story via email, leaving a message at 206-202-9005 (be sure to spell out your email address!) or on the Girlfriendology Contest Form.

* PRIZES: We have over 30 books to award for prizes in June, in addition to the five $10 Starbucks giftcards (to take you and your girlfriend out for coffee on Girlfriendology) and the Girlfriendology Journal. Winners will be established by a drawing of all contest responses. And, drumroll please! The PRIZES are:

* Twenty Wishes - a wonderful, inspiring book by mega author DEBBIE MACOMBER. (I just read it and it was the reason the last newsletter took so long to get out to you - I had to finish the book first!)
* Comfort Food - a new novel by KATE JACOBS (author of The Friday Night Knitting Club) and a lovely story of a cooking channel chef and her adventures with food, family and friends.
* Trust Me - the new romantic thrilled by BRENDA NOVAK. First in 'The Last Stand' trilogy , follow these female friends though crimes, investigations and, of course, some romance.
* JumpStart the Art: The Art of Losing It - audio book by J.J. VIRGIN. Inspiration on The Art of Losing It! Mastering Weight Loss in an Expanding World.
* BBQ Cookbooks - A BIG and little (perfect size for a gift!) book so of Barbecue by the BBQ Queens themselves, KAREN ADLER and JUDITH FRETIG.
* BuzZen - The Law of Attraction meets Girls Night Out! Written by JODY ENGLAND, this book will bring your and your girlfriends, and you and your dreams, closer!

All these amazing authors have graciously given their time recently for podcast interviews! Listen in for wonderful women inspiration! Thanks Kate, Debbie, Brenda and upcoming interviews with J.J., Jody and Karen!

So, send in your girlfriend story NOW for one of our over-a-prize-a-day prizes!

Friday, June 06, 2008

Girlfriends ... Pursue Thy Dreams!

Just a little Friday bumper sticker wisdom. As girlfriends we are here to support each other in pursuing our dreams. What do your girlfriends dream of doing and how can you cheer them on? Have you called lately to check in on a friend and her wishes? (Like the wishes in the Twenty Wishes book in our June Girlfriendology Contest and recent podcast with author Debbie Macomber!)

What have you done lately to go after your dreams? Shared your goals with a girlfriend?

Forsake your inhibitions and pursue your dreams!
And, encourage, support and celebrate your girlfriend's going after their dreams as well. Reaching for your dreams together can change your whole life! Dream BIG girlfriends!


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p.s. And don't forget to check out my designer superstar girlfriend JILL MACKAY and her wonderful jewelry! And listen in to the podcast where Jill interviewed me and I turned it around and did a little interviewing as well!

Thursday, June 05, 2008

Lessons from a Girlfriend - Podcast with BRENDA NOVAK, award-winning author

In my book, there's a different level of respect that you give a mother of five children! There also is a heightened sense of honor for an award-winning novelist who continues to produce well-written, engaging books. But what got to me was how BRENDA NOVAK combined these aspects of her life with an above-and-beyond call of action to do something about a disease that impacts her young son and so many children - Juvenile Diabetes.

Let's start with her new book. Trust Me. It is first in a trilogy (that Brenda admits will exceed three - which I'm sure will please her loyal fans!) about 'The Last Stand' - a group of girlfriends who meet at a victim support group and later add their own mix to each of her following romantic thrillers. The follow-up books in the series (Watch Me and Stop Me) are coming out later this month! Check out her site to read the first chapter of Trust Me.

So what did I learn from Brenda Novak that really inspired me?

* FAMILY FIRST - Brenda began writing because of her need to be home with her children. She makes time for them even when cranking out novels and doing the rounds of publicity and public speaking. Again, in my book, any mother of five that does all that she does, deserves some kind of prize!

* YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE - When Brenda's son was diagnosed with Juvenile Diabetes, she didn't just decide to let an insulin treatment change their routine. She decided to use the power of the pen (and the fans that has brought her) to do something. Brenda started a foundation and raises hundreds of thousands of dollars each year for research to cure Juvenile Diabetes.

* THAT'S WHAT FRIENDS ARE FOR
- Not only is that the name of her new June Contest, it also is a key part of her life and her recent 'The Last Stand' novels. The books revolve around a small girlfriend group with interesting skill sets and connections. Also, Brenda credits her writer girlfriends for their support in her Juvenile Diabetes fund raising as well as being her friends and understanding her wild writer lifestyle.

I know you'll enjoy listening to the podcast with, and reading books by, Brenda Novak. And, if you'd like to win a free copy of her new book Trust Me, send in a girlfriend story in the June Girlfriendology Contest. You'll enjoy the romance and the thrills!

Thanks Brenda for making time for Girlfriendology
and for sharing your books with us! Also, thanks for all you're doing to eliminate Juvenile Diabetes. The world is a better place because of people like you!

Monday, June 02, 2008

VOTE for May Girlfriendology Contest Winners!

The May Girlfriendology Contest gave away more prizes than ever before - so we had more entries than ever before - which made it very difficult to decide. Which ones should be the top five to win the Starbucks giftcard (to take them and their girlfriend out for coffee on Girlfriendology) and the top overall winner for the Girlfriendology Journal?!

So, we're going to let YOU decide! Remember, the guidelines are a great girlfriend story (that inspires, appreciates or celebrates girlfriends!). Please add a comment with your vote or send your selection in to ideas (at) girlfriendology (dot)com. (The non-spam version of our email!) Voting ends on June 10th at midnight, EST. Please only vote once per day. Any ties will be selected by a drawing. AND, don't forget to participate in the June Girlfriendology Contest. LOTS of PRIZES!!!

1. A couple of years ago, a very wonderful friend of mine made me my favorite Strawberry cake that my mother use to make for my birthdays. She died eight years ago and the Strawberry cake came to an end...until my friend heard the story, and decided to surprise me with my mother's cake recipe...and what a great surprise it was !!

2. My girlfriend and I go way back to 1960. We met on a train going to Los Angeles to join our husbands. We worked together for 15 years. We had our children a girl and a boy for both. Now we are widows and still good friends.

3. I was having a difficult time reading for my literature class because I found the writing very boring. When I told Becky that I thought I would like the stories better if I could hear them on tape, Becky offered to come to my house and read to me. "Whatever it takes to help you through this class," she said.

4. I have an e-friend who I talk to a lot. We met through common interests and the friendship has grown. We tend to get worried if we don't hear from each other fairly often so she got worried about me last year when I was in a accident. We finally got in touch with each other and had a long phone chat. I've never met her face to face but we laugh and cry with each other and pray for each other.

5. I'm a member of an awesome book club. We've been together about 4-1/2 years. There are seven members of our group. At the time we started our club a few of us were casual acquaintances and a few didn't know each other at all. We have since bonded into a very loving, supportive group of women from all walks of life, ranging in age from 40 to 60! So we laughingly refer to this year being our hundredth birthday celebration. Occasionally we remember to discuss books at our meetings, but often we find ourselves talking about life, laughing, crying, and basically enjoying the brief respite from the stresses of our daily lives and losing ourselves in the joy of being with people with whom we can be honest and free spirited around.

Birthdays can be tough, especially when you're having a bad year, as I was the first year we were together. All the girls gathered around and we headed to a nearby city and had 'the works' at the local spa School. Manicures, pedicures and facials for all, followed by lunch at a great restaurant. It was like being held in this cocoon of warmth and loving strength like nothing I'd ever experienced before. To this day they probably don't realize what that day meant to me. It was like they just collectively knew what would make it a great day.

Great friends are a blessing at any age, but to find this group of women out of the blue like we all did was a gift beyond reasoning.

6. My best friend is a caring individual for all. She never is too busy to hear my problems. She does not judge me, and tries to comfort me when I am down. We enjoy exercising, lunching and shopping together. She is such a joy to be around.

7. My girlfriend Pat and I have been best friends for over 10 years. We know that nothing is more sacred than a best friend. We both know that any secrets, hopes or fears we share with each other will never go any further than the two of us. We see each other through tragedy and celebrate each other's victory. We are friends forever as when you find a friend you can trust with your heart you have found something to treasure and never betray

8. My girlfriend Charlotte and I have been friends since sophomore year of high school. We are now 55. She is a breast cancer survivor. We are signing up again this year for the Komen Race for the Cure. Even though we live about 6 hours apart we keep in touch. We have seen each other through many happy times and not happy times. I don't know what I would do without her.

9. My girlfriend took me out for my birthday last year. We had such a good time! I was really mad at my husband because he let her plan a party for me, instead of doing it himself. By the end of the night, I had forgiven him, because she did a much better job than he ever could have

10. Two years ago seven of my eight best friends from high school and I got together for the first time in 39 years. We had seen very little of each other through the years, but we made up for lost time by spending four glorious "girls only" days at the beach together. We talked, laughed, ate, talked and laugh some more, and even "danced in the streets" to a live band. We've stayed in touch and gotten together ever since. Next year we will all turn 60 and we plan to have a HUGE birthday celebration for ourselves. We are planning on another trip together...destination yet unknown, but you can be assured it will be something FABULOUS. And I can also assure you that even though our 60-year-old bodies may feel a few aches and pains, we can still "PARTY likes it's 1989"...or in our case 1967!

11. My sisters are also my girlfriends! When my oldest sister turned 60 she was living in California. Her family had a surprise party for her, part of the surprise was that our other two sisters, our mother, a brother, and myself, all flew to California to celebrate with her! I even carried a dozen of her favorite donuts across country for her! The following year I over-nighted 1-1/2 dozen of those donuts to her with a note saying since I could not be there with her, for her birthday I just sent the donuts!

My third sister passed away last year of cancer. We miss her so very much, but I think it has brought the three of us even closer! It is so important to spend time with your girlfriends--- whether they are sisters, aunts, cousins, nieces!! Cherish the time together!

12. The best thing a friend did for me on my birthday was when my oldest was little. I was so discouraged and lived away from family. I was expecting to spend my birthday alone. My husband told me were going shopping. When we got there, he said he had to stop by Margarita's, my best friend at the time, for a few moments. He went inside like he had to get something and then they came outside and said surprise. She had fixed fried chicken and special food for my birthday including a birthday cake. It was the best gift I could have gotten. Margarita is a person who does not like to write letters and has written me many letters she said are in her cabinet. Yet she will take a card, sign it and put it in the mail to me to just let me know she is thinking of me. She surprised me once by calling early in the morning. She is still a very, very special friend.

13. My best friend created a "Remember US" journal/photo book. She entered several of the funniest or embarrassing things we did or said. She included pictures with some of the journal entries. It's a treasure I will keep and add to forever.

14. My best friend and I had a misunderstanding three years ago. We work together, so needless to say it was uncomfortable. At last years Christmas party we were both tipsy...and she approached me with a question, and next thing we knew, we were hugging and catching up! I missed her, she missed me, but pride got in the way. Thank God for martinis!

15. My girlfriend is a source of continuous support. I suffer from post traumatic stress disorder and she understands that some days can get pretty rough for me. When she calls and realizes I'm having a bad day she immediately suggests a simple excursion that might help get my cluttered mind to focus on calmer things. It doesn't always work, but what makes her efforts worth trying is the fact that she cares enough to help make a long-time friend's tears turn into smiles.

16. Can a sister be a girlfriend??? Hmmmm, tough one especially when you're talking about mine - through the years it's been up & down (much more on the up now that we are old and wise - LOL) and coming from a pretty non-demonstrative family it's still air kisses from 2 feet. One memorable year Lise outdid herself (in a great way). I was turning 25, living in Washington, DC and she was in an apartment the size of a closet (albeit in a mansion cut up into flats) in Chicago. A package arrived full of the most wonderful, crazy items - all 25 of them. There is nothing better than opening millions of presents, all of which mean something be it silly, serious or a long standing private joke. There is a wonderful picture of me in a very strange cowboy hat with a huge grin on my face surrounded by "stuff". BLISS!!

I'm sure I don't have any of those items now but isn't it funny that this is the first memory that popped up when I saw this month's contest. This time my sister really was a girlfriend!!

17. I met my best friend in the 7th grade. Even when she moved across country, we remained best friends. Later when I married, I named my first child after my best friend. Now we are 43 year's old and still best friends. We may live in separate states, but we keep in touch.

Again, please leave a comment with your vote. Only one vote per person per day. Voting ends at midnight EST on June 10th. Winners will be announced on a Girlfriendology podcast on June 15th. And, enter the June Girlfriendology Contest!!!!

Lessons from a Girlfriend - THE GIRLFRIEND FACTOR Founder Joan Busick

Our role as a girlfriend isn't to just go see "Sex and the City" together. It is to have a real friendship which means helping each other through tough stuff and celebrating successes TOGETHER.

JOAN BUSICK, along with her girlfriend Michele Moore, decided to create a non-profit based on helping real women go after their dreams. THE GIRLFRIEND FACTOR was born in 2005 and now has dozens of women in college/training for new careers and reaching their goals!

Listen to the podcast for the details. Check out The Girlfriend Factor for ways you can get involved - like a "Go Girl! Camp," online shopping, starting a chapter in your city, etc.

As founder of The Girlfriend Factor, Joan emotes inspiration! Here are a few lessons I learned from this wonderful girlfriend:

* TAKE CHARGE - Joan runs her own CPA firm. It would have been much easier just to write a check to another organization and not bothered with starting a non-profit. Not Joan. She and girlfriend Michele decided they wanted to make a difference in women's lives and to do something about it. That inspires me!

* FRIENDSHIP IS IMPORTANT - The Girlfriend Factor doesn't just write a check then walk away. They stay involved. They befriend the grant recipients and cheer them on through school, interviews, challenges and successes. They become their girlfriends and get to know them on a very personal, supportive level. That inspires me too!

* THEY HAVE FUN! - The Girlfriend Factor believes that helping others doesn't have to involve a boring fundraiser dinner with a long-winded speaker. (We've all been at too many of those!) Funds are raised by hosting fun events like a pajama shopping night and 'Go Girl! Camps.' And, through the course of their events, they become better friends with the other women who are supportive of The Girlfriend Factor. They know how to have fun and make a difference in women's lives - at the same time!

* GET YOUR FRIENDS INVOLVED - To get The Girlfriend Factor started, Joan and Michele decided to enlist their girlfriends. They asked them to consider supporting The Girlfriend Factor. Of course, being girlfriends, they wanted to help and became part of the "Blind Faith Gang." Per Joan and Michele: "Without knowledge or understanding of our dream, they chose to be part of something bigger than themselves. For their generosity and faith, we will forever hold them as the foundation that created The Girlfriend Factor."

Do you want to befriend other women who need just a 'foot up' in making a change in their life? Can you be the kind of girlfriend that you'd love to have? Don't just watch a movie together or have dinner - make a difference! Check out The Girlfriend Factor and listen in to this inspiring interview with Joan. Thanks Joan! Thanks Girlfriends!

Thursday, May 29, 2008

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!

Monday, May 26, 2008

Lessons from a Girlfriend - Podcast with DEBBIE MACOMBER, women's fiction author

DEBBIE MACOMBER is a mega-author. She has over 100 million books in print. Her new book, Twenty Wishes, is a wonderful, inspiring story of women who each make a list of their wishes and then together find the way to their dreams.

As welcoming and friendly as her books, Debbie spoke with Girlfriendology on our latest podcast. There is so much to learn from someone this gifted at understanding women, friendships, passionate hobbies and life. So, here are just a few of the lessons I learned in interviewing Debbie:

* LIVE YOUR LIFE WITH PASSION - Debbie is passionate about her knitting, writing, children and grandchildren (not necessarily in that order!). She loves to travel and spend time with her family and friends. She gets up at 4am each morning to start her day preparing and reading, then writing. (You have to be passionate about something to get up at that time each morning!) You can tell by talking with her that she loves life and loves sharing the lives of her characters with her millions of fans.

* LOVE YOUR FANS
- Debbie is currently on tour to 20 cities (for the 20 wishes!). Her fans come out in swarms, in any weather and with a desire just to see her, talk with her, share their knitting or tell her about their girlfriends. She even shared how the initial idea for this book came from one of her fans. She obviously loves these women and finds such joy in getting to know them, hearing about their lives and sharing her hobbies and writings with them.

* MAKE TIME FOR YOUR GIRLFRIENDS
- As she shared in the interview, Debbie has a group of girlfriends that she meets with weekly for breakfast. They help each other through life, share their joys and frustrations, and, after talking with Debbie, they must laugh a lot! Even with her busy schedule, she keeps them as a priority in her life. She's a good girlfriend!

* TAKE TIME FOR YOUR HOBBIES - It doesn't have to be knitting, but just find an activity that you love and allow yourself time to spend doing it. And, when you can, combine your hobbies! Debbie obviously loves to write and knit. So it was natural for her to combine them with a companion book to Twenty Wishes with knitting patterns from the book's characters. She even has designed a line of products for knitters (but versatile enough to be used for lots of other hobbies and 'stuff!).

So, what are your wishes? Dreams? Goals? Do you have them written down or perhaps represented on a vision board? Do your girlfriends know what your dreams are and do they cheer you on in reaching them?

Read Twenty Wishes then write out your own wishes. Share them with your friends. They'll help you achieve them! Visit Set Your Wish Free for information on a special contest to reward someone with $10,000 to set their wish free!

Thanks Debbie for making time for Girlfriendology in the midst of your national book tour! It was an honor to speak with you and to be able to share Twenty Wishes with your fans through the podcast and through our Girlfriendology Contest prizes. Thanks for your inspiration and for introducing us to so many girlfriends in your novels.

P.S. And send in your story for our monthly Girlfriendology Contest! You could win a copy of Debbie's fabulous new novel, Twenty Wishes - just send in a girlfriend story and you could get back a great girlfriend novel!

Saturday, May 24, 2008

Lessons from a Girlfriend - Podcast with CAROL DUVALL, the 'queen of crafts'!

Just her voice and laughter makes me miss her. And, from reading several of the message boards on HGTV, DIY and several blogs, a lot of you miss her too.

If you're at all crafty or have kids who enjoy making things, you've heard her voice and laughter. And, you've no doubt been inspired by this amazing woman. CAROL DUVALL has been on television for 57 years (and her re-runs will hopefully continue for many years!). In our recent podcast interview Carol shared how she got started and how her career proceeded to find her as THE craft show on television, "The Carol Duvall Show."

I had the honor of being on her show a dozen times (and taping with her on the Shop At Home network) so I am especially fond of her voice and laughter - it not only reminds me of her show but also of some of the best memories of my life, taping this show with wonderful, welcoming crew and guests.

With 57 years of experiences, you would expect to learn a few things from this smart, fun, kind and creative woman. Here's a few LESSONS FROM A GIRLFRIEND, from our conversation with Carol Duvall:

* BE NICE
- Carol is genuinely a nice person. She always made her guests feel welcomed and comfortable even when we were newbies and might mess up and have to retape. In the podcast, she shared how her father told her to always be nice to everyone you work with - and she did. Listen to her tell how she got her first network gig, on "The Home Show."

* SURROUND YOURSELF WITH GIRLFRIENDS - Kelly, Cherryl, Cam, Linda ... and so many other great women were on Carol's production crew. Each of them worked hard and were dedicated to their girlfriend, Carol. I love how Carol enjoyed these women as much as they loved working with her. She still gets together with her friends from the show like Donna Kato, Mary O'Neil and Karen Thomas. She also wrote her latest book, Paper Crafting with Carol Duvall, with her former producer and dear friend, Cherryl Greene. She gets the need for and blessing of girlfriends!

* HAVE FUN ALONG THE WAY - As Carol shares in the podcast, she would tape multiple shows in one day. This involved a lot of preparation and planning by her staff. At the end of often very long days, there often was time for fun. And who better to have fun with than girlfriends?! Carol and her crew and guests would sometimes go to dinner after a full day of taping. I was with her and several from the crew one night in Nashville when we were taping at Shop At Home. You know the beautiful women who host shopping network shows? They were with us (including Kim from Oprah's recent "Big Give" show!) - all of them could be covergirl models. But it wasn't the beautiful blonds that drew the attention of one man at the bar. He sent a drink over to Carol. He didn't know her from TV at all. He just thought she was beautiful and special. And she will forever be.

Carol, thank you so much for taking time to talk with me on the Girlfriendology podcast but most of all, my personal and heart-felt thanks for the treasured memories I have of being on your show and working with you and your great crew. Thanks for the creative inspiration that you've been for millions of us who find so much happiness, stress release and fulfillment from our crafty creations that we learned from you and your show. Thanks for your book, for your perseverance in the wild world of television and, most of all, thank you for your laughter. What a wonderful legacy you've lived - 57 years on television, countless craft segments and projects, and a world of creative inspiration. We're all so blessed to have you as our creative girlfriend!

COMMENTS FROM A FAN:



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Thursday, May 22, 2008

Interview with CAROL DUVALL, our creative girlfriend and 'queen of crafts'!

Hey Girlfriends - I just posted the CAROL DUVALL podcast and wanted to let you know. I'll add more updates and 'Lessons from a Girlfriend' later today. (Including stories of fun times with Carol from taping the show with her!)

If you don't know Carol, you should listen in and get to know her. She's a living legend having been on television for 57 years! (That has to be a record!!) And she has a new book, Paper Crafting with Carol Duvall.

Listen in for this fun visit with a dear creative girlfriend who has inspired so many of us. And thanks Mari and Rebecca for your call-in questions!!!

Tuesday, May 20, 2008

TIP TUESDAY #24: Hey girlfriends - what's your favorite hobby/passion?

I've heard that if you look back to your childhood, before boys had an impact or peer pressure was in it's teen madness, you'll find the things that you genuinely love to do. Maybe it was acting, drawing, talking, cooking or even dressing up. When we were eight to ten years old, we did whatever we loved - and why not?!

My mother is an artist so it is no surprise that I grew up doing crafts, drawing people in church, making sand art (a long-lost talent!) or other creative exercises. I designed the cover of my Jr. High school year book and won an award for a paper mache dragon that I made with a girlfriend. Is it any wonder that several decades later, I ended up in the craft/hobby industry?!

Last week I interviewed CAROL DUVALL for the Girlfriendology podcast. On TV for 56 years, this 'Queen of Crafts' is an amazing woman. She is a living legacy of TV history as well as the inspiration and teacher to millions of us as we learned new crafts and laughed along with her and her guests. I had the honor of being on her show a dozen times so I really enjoyed just catching up with her and having a conversation about our girlfriends on the show. And, Carol just wrote a book with the help of one of the girlfriends from her show, Cherryl Greene - Paper Crafting with Carol Duvall.

Recently I was asked what my favorite craft/hobby is so I thought I put it to you. This week's TIP TUESDAY question is:

What is your favorite hobby? AND who inspires you?

Carol Duvall inspires me. (And she will you, when you hear her podcast that will be posted on Wednesday evening.) My creative girlfriends Katie Hacker, Jill MacKay, Vicki Schreiner and Linda Peterson inspire me, along with dozen of other wonderful, super-creative women I've met in the craft industry.

How about you? Think back to your childhood and what hobbies you could spend hours doing. Remember the pure joy of playing music, baking, playing with clay - whatever made you happy! What hobby do you love with a passion and who inspired you? Share with us. You might just inspire someone else to find a new hobby/passion in their life!

p.s. And Carol's book as well as several others are in the monthly contest so send in your girlfriend story!

Sunday, May 18, 2008

Lessons from a Girlfriend - Podcast with best-selling author KATE JACOBS

I'm not a perfect girlfriend, by far. I don't know it all and I don't pretend to. I just know that I honestly believe life is much better with female friendship (and there are books, like The Tending Instinct, to confirm that with research findings).

So in my daily pursuit of Girlfriendology as a growing online community of women, it is always a wonderful find when a woman (without prompting or payment from me!) shows me a new perspective of passion toward 'girlfriendship.' I recently had that wonderful experience during one of our Girlfriendology Podcast interviews. She didn't write a girlfriend book and I don't believe she officially does public speaking on female friendship, but she could!

After growing up in Canada, KATE JACOBS moved to NYC, leaving her friends and family behind. She soon developed a 'family of friends' in her new city. In our podcast interview she talks about the women whom she met and the friendships they forged. She shares about her childhood friends and how she remains close with so many of them. She 'gets' friendship.

And, she also writes about friendship. Her debut novel, The Friday Night Knitting Club, was a New York Times best-selling book and celebrated friendship among knitters (and non-knitters). Her new book, Comfort Food, is about "the elegant host of a television cooking show, Augusta “Gus” Simpson, who is fending off an ambitious co-host while also dealing with personal issues with her two twenty-something daughters, Aimee and Sabrina. It’s a book about family, about friendships, about our frustrations in life and in work, and about the power of food to bring people together." (quote from Kate's blog)

So, there is much to learn from this young, friendly, warm, kind girlfriend, like these lessons I learned:

* NEVER UNDERESTIMATE THE NEED FOR GIRLFRIENDS: Kate inspired me with her dedication to her friends. Even though she was on a national book tour, she had spoken with one of her childhood friends right before our podcast interview. She gets together with her NYC girlfriends. Even as a busy, successful author, she makes her friends a priority. (Kinda takes away the "I'm too busy" excuse, doesn't it? A phone call or email doesn't really take that long, does it?!)

* LEARN FROM OTHER WOMEN: Kate was an editor for several magazines (Redbook, Working Woman). Friendships grew with other women editors. They bonded together and helped each other out. No competition here, they learned from and leaned on each other. And, she continues to get together with them, even when she lives across the country.

* NOTICE WHAT WOMEN LIKE: No, this isn't advice for men, this is for us girls. Kate's books resonate with women because she understands female friendship and how women like to communicate, what we like to read, the hobbies that we love, etc. I'm sure she picked up more than just yarn/stitch advice when knitting with a group of women. Listen to not only what your friends say, but also what they mean and what they need from your friendship. Be the kind of friend that you'd like others to be to you.

Especially when it comes to the importance of 'girlfriendship,' Kate is wise beyond her years. We're fortunate to have her as a girlfriend author. Again, I'm not a perfect girlfriend, but hearing what Kate has to say about the importance of her friends, inspires me. She makes me want to be a better girlfriend!

** You can win a copy of Kate's new book, Comfort Food, in the Girlfriendology Contest. Just send in a girlfriend story and you're in the drawing for this great book. (Which would make a perfect prize - you can read, then pass along to a girlfriend!) Visit Girlfriendology for contest info. Thanks Girlfriends! And a BIG Thank You to Kate!

Wednesday, May 14, 2008

Girlfriend questions or comments for NYT #1 author DEBBIE MACOMBER?


I'm humbled by the experience to talk with such fabulous, inspiring, busy and creative women on the Girlfriendology Podcast. I'm interviewing CAROL DUVALL in 20 minutes (and thanks to Mari and Rebecca for your PERFECT questions/comments - listen in to hear!). I just interviewed KATE JACOBS (author of "Friday Night Knitting Club" and new book "Comfort Food") - she is great! And, this Friday I'm talking with NYT #1 Best-selling author DEBBIE MACOMBER. (Yes, totally humbled!)

DEBBIE is the author of BACK ON BLOSSOM STREET, SUSANNAH’S GARDEN, A GOOD YARN, THE SHOP ON BLOSSOM STREET, BETWEEN FRIENDS and the Cedar Cove series. She is one of today’s leading voices in women’s fiction. A regular on every major bestseller list with more than 100 million copies of her books in print, the award-winning author celebrated a new career milestone in September 2007, when the latest in her Cedar Cove series, 74 SEASIDE AVENUE, scored #1 on the NEW YORK TIMES, USA TODAY, Publishers Weekly and Bookscan bestseller lists. Her popularity is worldwide with her books translated into 23 languages! She is current on a national book tour for her new book TWENTY WISHES. (Which you can WIN in our June Girlfriendology Contest!)

WOW! I KNOW Debbie has millions of fans so I'd love to share your comments/questions with her when we talk on the Girlfriendology podcast interview on Friday. Please call 206-202-9005 with your question or comment for Debbie (before 8am EST on Friday, May 16). And come back in the coming week to hear our interview with this amazing, inspiring woman! Thanks Girlfriends!

Sunday, May 11, 2008

Lessons from a Girlfriend - Podcast interview with NOVEL DESTINATIONS authors, Shannon McKenna Schmidt and Joni Rendon

In any group of girlfriends, you're sure to find bibliophiles and travel lovers. Just by our inquisitive nature, we women long to read books that transport us to another place and time. And, given the opportunity, most of us would drop everything to travel - especially with our girlfriends!

Our podcast guests understand this desire to explore - whether it's between book covers or on a foreign adventure. JONI RENDON and SHANNON MCKENNA SCHMIDT met briefly before Joni moved from Shannon's neighborhood in New Jersey to London, England. Their transatlantic friendship grew as did their common passion for books and travel. Together they wrote NOVEL DESTINATIONS: Literary Landmarks From Jane Austen's Bath to Ernest Hemingway's Key West - a guide to over 500 literary locales (with wonderful stories on each!).

Joni and Shannon are extraordinary writers and girlfriends. Here's the lessons I learned: (listen in to see what lessons you learn from them!)


* BE A GOOD GIRLFRIEND:
You know how you can 'read' girlfriends when you meet them together? Some dominate the conversation or share jokes, many have similar energy levels and common hobbies. Shannon and Joni were great to talk with! They allow the other to finish her thoughts and sentences, and you can tell that they respect each other's opinions and insights. And, to take on such a monumental task (over 500 literary landmarks!) and still want to collaborate on future projects makes them a wonderful example of 'girlfriendship.' (You can follow their continued travels on their blog too!)

* FRIENDSHIP KNOWS NO DISTANCE: Joni moved to London. Shannon stayed in NJ. Did being across the pond put an end to the friendship? Did five hours of time change deter them from working together? NO! Friends are worth the effort, right? Plus, with the internet, Skype, international news, etc. we can still share our experiences with our girlfriends no matter where we/they are!

* TAKE THE ADVENTURE: Life is short. Adventures happen when you venture out of your home, neighborhood, state or country. Read NOVEL DESTINATIONS and you'll no doubt find literary locations that enchant you. Grab a girlfriend and go on an adventure!

* ALLOW YOURSELF TO DREAM: Even if you can't go to all the destinations you'd love to visit, you can still experience the adventure through Joni and Shannon's wonderful guide. Time, money or logistics may be an issue but don't let it stop you. Explore local museums, artist homes, historic locations. Share it with a girlfriend, either in person or through phone calls and emails. An adventure is still 'an adventure' no matter how far you travel!

We're so lucky to have copies of NOVEL DESTINATIONS to give out in this month's Girlfriendology Contest. Just send us a girlfriend story and you'll be in the drawing for this month's prizes.

Thanks Shannon and Joni
for talking with us and for bringing us along to 500+ wonderful, memorable literary locations!

Are you or a girlfriend a CAROL DUVALL fan?

Carol Duvall is the official "Queen of Crafts." Her show, the aptly named "Carol Duvall Show" aired on HGTV and DIY for years - and has continued in re-runs for even more years. (We just can't get enough of Carol!) I had the thrill of taping with Carol a dozen or so times - she's a wonderful and inspiring girlfriend!

On Wednesday I once again am thrilled to work with Carol! She graciously has agreed to talk with Girlfriendology on our (new semi-weekly!) podcast. AND I NEED YOUR HELP!

Do you (or a girlfriend or daughter) have a question for Carol? Please call 206-202-9005 (by Tuesday 8pm EST 5/13) and leave a comment or question for Carol. I'll play it for Carol when we tape the podcast on Wednesday.

One of the greatest benefits of girlfriends is what we learn from each other. What would you like to learn from Carol? Thanks Girlfriends! (Remember - call 206-202-9005 for questions for Carol or comments/girlfriend stories for future podcasts! Thanks!!)

P.S. And Carol's new book, Paper Crafting with Carol Duvall, will be one of our prizes next month in the Girlfriendology monthly contest. (We have too many books to give away this month so send us a girlfriend story in May and June and possibly win two prizes!)

Thursday, May 08, 2008

Lessons from a Girlfriend - Podcast interview with KAIRA ROUDA

I know, you can't judge a book by it's cover, but you can make a pretty good assessment of the book by talking with the author. You can tell by listening to KAIRA STRUDIVANT ROUDA that she knows 'her stuff' and that she has the knowledge and passion to really launch entrepreneurial women.

President of Real Living (one of the fastest growing real estate company in the U.S.) and creator of the Real Living brand, Kaira is passionate about entrepreneurism, marketing and the power of women in the workforce and beyond. A published author, journalist, marketing executive and business owner, she built her career by working in marketing for national brands and large regional advertising agencies. She is also a contributing writer and editor for national and regional publications. In addition to this, and an active volunteer schedule, Kaira is also a wife and mother of four.

With all this, Kaira found time to talk with Girlfriendology on our podcast about her new book - Real You Incorporated: 8 Essentials for Women Entrepreneurs. Together we discussed the importance of female friendship (aka: support) as an entrepreneur and we learned a lot, like these 'Lessons from a Girlfriend':

* BE YOU - This book is no fluff. It is a great guide to living a life you love and creating a career of your dreams. As the title references, you need to be 'you' to be a happy, fulfilled, successful entrepreneur. The book helps you identify your 'word' - a description that is the core to building the career and lifestyle that is uniquely perfect for YOU. And, Kaira (whose word is "visionary" - which is true!) shows us how YOU are the brand and how that is a very good thing. (Read the book - you'll agree!)
* HAVE TIME FOR YOU - Kaira's days are filled with running a successful company, fulfilling her book PR, volunteering and more - PLUS being a wife and mother of four. The most frequent question asked of her is "How do you do it?!" Listen in for her answer and be prepared to be inspired from a realistic and inspiring woman! (Great lesson there!)
* DREAM BIG - Kaira believes you hold the cards (and the real you) to a wonderful, BIG life. In fact, in her book she wrote: "Allow yourself to think big, be ambitious. This is your life, so get it right." Such a great reminder on the important things in life and the role we all need to take in getting our life right.

Women are starting businesses at twice the rate of men and 1 out of 11 women are an entrepreneur - that's a lot of us! Maybe there's an entrepreneurial dream inside you (or a girlfriend) or perhaps you just need to jumpstart your goals.

Listen to Kaira on this inspiring podcast. Read an excerpt, check out Kaira's web site and definitely get her book Real You Incorporated (for you and/or a friend). Isn't it comforting to know that the woman you dream to be, is already inside of YOU - just waiting to emerge!? Thanks Kaira for your interview, book and overall guidance. We all benefit by your visionary inspiration!