The In-Between Podcast with Kassidy Lynne Social

Welcome to The In-Between Podcast. Today we have Makayla Hopper, founder and photographer behind MacMo Photo & Co., for a real conversation about entrepreneurship, community, and navigating in-between seasons. Makayla shares her journey from construction project management to going all-in on photography, the moment she almost sold her business, and how choosing vulnerability opened the door to deeper relationships and aligned growth. We talk about building a “business family,” trusting your instincts when things fall apart, and how a major setback — including a broken ankle during a pivotal season — completely reshaped the way she prices, structures, and sustains her work. This episode is a reminder that success isn’t just about hustling harder, but about consistency, community, and building a business that can support you through every season. What You’ll Hear: Makayla’s path from construction management to full-time photographer The chaotic mastermind moment that sparked a powerful business connection Why vulnerability builds stronger relationships than perfection Almost selling her business — and the choice that changed everything The lesson a broken ankle taught her about pricing and sustainability Why photographers (and creatives) should price to replace themselves How brand photography retainers create long-term value for small businesses Why community and consistency matter more than momentum alone Connect with Makayla: @macmo.photo |https://www.instagram.com/macmo.photo/ Website: https://macmophoto.com/ Let's Connect: @inbetweenconvos | @kassidy.owen

Welcome to The In-Between Podcast. Today we have, Rickelle Tallent, former competitive athlete turned sports dietitian and founder of Tallent Nutrition, to unpack what performance nutrition really looks like beyond restrictive diets and wellness trends. Rickelle shares her unconventional journey from psychology to nutrition, how working with former athletes shaped her passion for long-term health, and why fueling properly is about performance, recovery, and sustainability — not just aesthetics. They dive into common nutrition myths, the dangers of diet culture and supplement overload, the role of mindset in eating behaviors, and practical strategies for busy entrepreneurs and active individuals to improve energy, focus, and consistency. This conversation is a grounded reminder that nutrition is proactive care, not punishment, and that small habits compound into lifelong health. What You’ll Hear: How Rickelle defines an “athlete” and who performance nutrition is really for Her path from psychology to sports nutrition and business ownership Why restrictive diets fail active people long term The impact of diet culture, supplements, and social media misinformation Foundational habits to improve energy, recovery, and mental clarity The powerful connection between mindset, food, and performance Why proactive health choices matter more than reactive fixe Connect with Rickelle: @tallentnutrition | https://www.instagram.com/tallentnutrition/ Website: https://tallentnutrition.com/ Let's Connect: @inbetweenconvos | @kassidy.owen

Today I’m sitting down with Polina Weidner, founder and CEO of The Marketing Model, to talk about quitting corporate with no plan, launching a business during the chaos of 2020 while pregnant, and how motherhood completely reshaped the way she works and leads. Polina shares the mindset that kept her going through uncertainty, why taking ownership of mistakes actually strengthened her client relationships, and the moment she realized her business needed to pivot so her life could breathe again. We get into her signature 3–3–3 rule for staying organized, the biggest marketing mistake entrepreneurs make (overthinking instead of posting), and how showing up authentically online creates real connection and growth. She also dives into the heart behind Mayko Made, her new community for moms in business designed to give support, strategy, and sisterhood in a season that often feels isolating. What You'll Hear: How Paulina quit corporate with no plan and matched her income in just months Launching The Marketing Model during 2020 while pregnant and navigating major life changes The mindset + ownership that helped her turn early mistakes into long-term client trust How motherhood pushed her to pivot her business model for more sustainability and presence Paulina’s 3–3–3 rule for staying organized without burnout The biggest marketing mistake entrepreneurs make (and how to fix it fast) The mission behind Mayko Made and why moms in business need real community now more than ever Connect with Polina: @polina.weidner | https://www.instagram.com/polina.weidner @themarketingmodel | https://www.instagram.com/themarketingmodel @maykomade | https://www.instagram.com/maykomade Website: https://www.themarketingmodel.com/ Let's Connect: @inbetweenconvos | @kassidy.owen

In this episode of In-Between, Kassidy sits down with Rhiannon Andersen, co-founder and Chief Marketing Officer of Steelhead Productions, to talk about leadership, resilience, and choosing joy through life’s hardest seasons. Rhiannon shares how she helped grow Steelhead by over 600%, why happiness is a conscious choice rather than a personality trait, and how her early career in social work shaped her values-driven approach to business. They dive into building award-winning company culture, giving back through the Give Happy Foundation, navigating massive business risk during the recession and COVID, redefining success beyond money, and learning to balance masculine and feminine leadership. This conversation is a powerful reminder that success isn’t just what you build — it’s how you live, lead, and show up through the in-between moments. What You’ll Hear: Why happiness is a choice — and how Rhiannon rebuilt her life around joy Growing Steelhead Productions through recession, risk, and reinvention What award-winning company culture actually looks like day-to-day The power of giving back and building purpose into business Redefining success beyond money, titles, and achievement Navigating leadership, motherhood, and feminine vs. masculine energy Advice for anyone stuck in an “in-between” season of life or business Connect with Rhiannon: @rhiannon_andersen | https://www.instagram.com/rhiannon_andersen @exhibithappy | https://www.instagram.com/exhibithappy/ @givehappyfoundation | https://www.instagram.com/givehappyfoundation/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhiannonandersen/ Let's Connect: @inbetweenconvos | @kassidy.owen

Today I'm sitting down with Dr. Nona Djavid - entrepreneur, author, podcaster, and chiropractor who's on a mission to help people live what she calls an "unreasonable life." In this episode we dive deep into the difference between living a reasonable versus unreasonable life, and trust me, this conversation will make you question everything you thought you knew about success. Dr. Nona gets vulnerable about building a seven-figure business in her twenties while feeling completely burnt out and unhappy, that pivotal moment that changed everything, and why borrowed dreams will never fulfill you. We talk about the mechanics versus energetics of success, why most affirmations actually backfire because of neuro-tags, and her framework for achieving more by working less (yes, she works one week a month). Dr. Nona also shares why being addicted to struggle is keeping you stuck, how to rewire your nervous system for a new reality, and why doubt is actually a sign you're on the right track. If you've ever felt like you checked all the boxes but still feel empty, this episode is your wake-up call! What You'll Hear: The difference between a reasonable and unreasonable life Dr. Nona's closet breakdown moment that changed everything Why borrowed dreams lead to burnout and unhappiness The three categories of people and their relationship with desire How to identify if your vision is truly unreasonable Why fear and doubt mean you're on the right path Mechanics versus energetics: the missing piece in manifestation The addiction to struggle that keeps entrepreneurs stuck Understanding neuro-tags and why affirmations can backfire How to rewire your nervous system for abundance The one week a month lifestyle and how it's possible Why you can't manifest from a place of unworthiness The four steps to quantum leaping your life How quickly you rebound from setbacks determines your success Trusting yourself through in-between moments Connect with Dr Nona Djavid: @nonadjavid https://nonadjavid.com/ Let's Connect: @inbetweenconvos | @kassidy.owen

Welcome back to The In-Between podcast! Today I'm chatting with Shannon Russell, a career transition coach, author, and host of the Second Act Success podcast. In this episode we dive into what a "second act" really means and why it's never too late to start over. Shannon shares her powerful story of walking away from her dream job in television and the pivotal moment when she chose family over interviewing major celebrities. We talk about the messy in-between of figuring out what's next, why defining your "why" is the compass for everything, and how to strategically build a business while still working full-time. Shannon gets honest about imposter syndrome, the fear of what others will think, and why you don't have to have it all figured out to take the leap. Plus, we discuss why everyone should have something entrepreneurial on the side and how to stop living with regrets. If you're feeling stuck or wondering if there's something more out there for you, this conversation is your permission slip to explore! What You'll Hear: What a "second act" really means and why it's not too late Shannon's journey from TV producer to franchise owner to coach The Taylor Swift interview that changed everything Navigating the messy in-between of career transitions How to know when it's time for a change Defining your "why" as your compass for decision-making Starting a business while working full-time strategically Dealing with imposter syndrome and self-doubt Why success in a second act looks different than your first The importance of having something you build and control Teaching your kids that career paths aren't linear How to take the first step toward your second act Living without regrets and chasing your dreams Connect with Shannon: @secondactsuccess Second Act Success Website | https://secondactsuccess.co/ Second Act Success Podcast Let's Connect: @inbetweenconvos | @kassidy.owen

Welcome back to The In-Between podcast! Today I'm sitting down with Bri Ramos - branding expert, fractional CMO, and co-founder of the PAUSE Retreat, a luxury retreat designed specifically for high-achieving women. Bri's been running The Buzz Brand with her sisters for 11 years, and honestly, she's a wealth of knowledge on all things branding, marketing, and identity. We get into her wild journey from being a teacher to accidentally falling into branding and eventually building a full-service agency. Bri gets real about the constant identity shifts that come with entrepreneurship and motherhood, why setting boundaries as a high-achiever is so hard (but necessary), and the importance of having a hobby that's actually separate from your work. We also dive into why storytelling will always beat following trends, how to lead with value instead of just selling, and why there's absolutely room for everyone in your industry. Plus, Bri shares what inspired the PAUSE Retreat and Community - a space for women to actually stop and refill their cups. If you're navigating your own identity shifts or just need permission to slow down, this conversation is everything! What You'll Hear: Bri's journey from education to tech to building The Buzz Brand Navigating multiple identity shifts as an entrepreneur and mom Why discovering your identity is the foundation of your brand The importance of boundaries for high-achieving women How to find a hobby that isn't just another creative outlet Why everyone needs a mentor in different seasons The psychology behind effective marketing and storytelling Leading with value over selling your product or service Understanding people to solve their pain points The PAUSE Retreat and Community for high-achieving women Why emotional intelligence makes great leaders The power of play and laughter in personal development Why the market isn't saturated - there's room for everyone Advice for anyone in an in-between moment right now Connect with Bri: @bri.ramos__ | @thebuzzbrand_ | Bri's Website | https://brianaramos.com/ The Buzz Brand Website | https://thebuzzbrand.com/ Let's Connect: @inbetweenconvos | @kassidy.owen

Hey everyone! Welcome back to The In-Between podcast! I'm so excited to have Katheryn Harter back on the show - she was one of my very first guests and one of my most downloaded episodes ever! Katheryn is the founder of Balunz by Kat and her brand new venture, With Love, Kat, a full-service event planning company. She's a wife, mom to two littles, and honestly one of my greatest friends who's taught me so much about life and business. In this episode, we dive into how Katheryn went from balloons to full event planning, the reality of balancing motherhood with entrepreneurship, and why she's never downplaying her prices again. We talk about her viral Galentine's client appreciation events, why celebrating every moment matters, and the real truth about work-life balance (spoiler: it doesn't exist). Katheryn gets incredibly honest about the sacrifices, the trade-offs, and why saying no has become her superpower. If you're a mom trying to build something or just need a reminder that you can't be everywhere all the time, this conversation is for you! What You'll Hear: Kat's journey from Balloons by Cat to Events With Love Cat How motherhood changed the way she runs her business Why she stopped downplaying her prices and started valuing her time The moment a client's trust gave her the confidence to go all in Balancing two kids, two businesses, and staying sane Her incredible Galentine's client appreciation events Why celebrating life's moments (big and small) matters so much The truth about work-life balance as a mom entrepreneur Learning to say no and setting boundaries Building genuine relationships with clients beyond transactions Advice for parents building businesses while raising kids Connect with Kat: @balunzbykat | @eventswithlove.kat Let's Connect: @inbetweenconvos | @kassidy.owen

Hey everyone! Welcome back to The In-Between podcast! Today we're diving into why motivation is overrated and discipline is actually the secret sauce to everything you want in life. Let's be real - motivation is that exciting high that gets you pumped about running a 5K or starting a business, but then your friend invites you to California and suddenly that laptop stays closed forever. Sound familiar? I'm breaking down why discipline is different - it's a contract with yourself, it's about integrity, and it's what separates the businesses that make it past five years from those that don't. We'll talk about building habits that stick, creating systems over relying on feelings, and why showing up even when you don't feel like it builds unstoppable momentum. Plus, I'm sharing Ed Mylett's powerful story about his dad's sobriety that completely changed how I think about commitment. If you're tired of starting things you never finish, this episode is your wake-up call! What You'll Hear: Why motivation is fleeting and discipline is forever The difference between emotional highs and habitual consistency How to build small routines that actually stick Creating systems instead of relying on feelings The 5-minute rule for getting started when you don't want to How discipline builds momentum and self-trust Ed Mylett's powerful story about his dad's sobriety One actionable challenge to build discipline starting today Why showing up is half the battle Let's Connect: @inbetweenconvos | @kassidy.owen Kassidy Lynne Socials: @kassidylynnesocials | website Produced by: Podcast & Co.

Welcome back to The In-Between podcast! Today I'm so pumped to be chatting with Gianni Bianco - certified personal trainer, founder of GB Wellness, and creator of the She Girls Club here in Las Vegas. Gianni takes a psychological approach to fitness with the belief that health starts in your mind and the body will follow, which I absolutely love. We dive into her incredible journey from bodybuilding competitor at 18 to building a thriving coaching business focused on sustainable, enjoyable fitness. Gianni gets real about the mental battles of extreme dieting, why slow and steady wins the race, and how she's creating a supportive women-only fitness community. We also talk macro tracking, overcoming imposter syndrome as a trainer, and why saying no is actually a superpower. If you're navigating your own fitness journey or just need a reminder that progress doesn't have to look perfect, this conversation is for you! What You'll Hear: Gianni's journey from bodybuilding to sustainable fitness The psychological approach to health and wellness Why extreme diets aren't sustainable (and what is) Understanding macro tracking and when it's helpful Building the She Girls Club community in Las Vegas Overcoming imposter syndrome as a fitness professional Finding movement you actually enjoy The importance of fueling your body properly Navigating the ebbs and flows of fitness motivation Setting boundaries and the power of saying no Why therapy changed everything for Gianni's mindset Supporting clients through life's in-between moments Let's Connect: @inbetweenconvos | @kassidy.owen Kassidy Lynne Socials: @kassidylynnesocials | website Connect with Gianni: @_giannibianco | @she.clublv | website Produced by: Podcast & Co.

Hey everyone! Welcome back to The In-Between podcast! Today I'm diving into a solo episode about overnight success - is it even real, and should you be chasing it? Spoiler alert: it's probably not what you think. I'm getting honest about why my brain just doesn't work that way and why I've learned to value slow, sustainable growth over quick wins. We'll talk about what's really happening behind those "I made six figures in 30 days" posts, why virality isn't always the blessing it seems, and how focusing on consistency, learning, and resilience will actually build the longevity you're looking for. If you've ever felt discouraged seeing everyone else's overnight success while you're grinding it out day by day, this episode is for you! What You'll Hear: Why overnight success is rarely what it seems The hidden work behind viral moments Why slow, sustainable growth might be your superpower The downsides of going viral and scaling too fast Focusing on consistency, learning, and resilience over luck How to stop comparing yourself to Instagram success stories Building momentum through consistent daily effort Why your pace is perfectly okay Let's Connect: @inbetweenconvos | @kassidy.owen Kassidy Lynne Socials: @kassidylynnesocials | website Produced by: Podcast & Co.

Hey everyone! Welcome back to The In-Between podcast! Today I'm sitting down with Alyson McCarthy - CEO of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Las Vegas. Before leading this incredible organization, Alyson spent 22 years as a television news anchor and investigative reporter. We're diving into her gutsy career pivot from the newsroom to nonprofit, what broke her during those final years in TV, and how she's building a culture of compassion and self-care at RMHC. We also talk about the misconceptions people have about Ronald McDonald House, what families actually experience there, and why taking care of your team is the real measure of success. What You'll Hear: How RMHC operates independently from McDonald's corporate (and where funding really comes from) The biggest misconceptions about Ronald McDonald House Why it's not sad to work there - it's actually full of light and hope The new house designed for larger families with longer stays Alyson's breaking point after 22 years in TV news The "if it bleeds it leads" culture that led to her burnout How she quit without another job lined up (and what happened next) Divine intervention: the Nevada Donor Network opportunity Getting the call back to RMHC after initially turning it down Her husband's belief in her when she didn't believe in herself Why success isn't about raising $3 million - it's about taking care of your team first The power of emotional intelligence and self-awareness in leadership Why we need to retrain ourselves not to "give until it hurts" Living in the gray and messy in-between moments Her advice: Stop pretending you're not evolving as a person Let's Connect: @inbetweenconvos | @kassidy.owen Kassidy Lynne Socials: @kassidylynnesocials | website Connect with Alyson: LinkedIn | Website Produced by: Podcast & Co.

Please note: We experienced some technical difficulties during this recording, so the audio quality isn't our usual standard. We apologize for any interruptions or sound issues - we hope you can still enjoy the conversation! Hey everyone! Welcome back to The In-Between podcast! Today I'm sharing four crucial lessons I wish I knew before becoming an entrepreneur. After almost four and a half years of building my social media business, countless pivots, and learning literally everything on the fly, I'm breaking down what actually makes it or breaks it in the entrepreneurial world - and spoiler alert: it's not what you think. What You'll Hear: Why entrepreneurship is messy and unpredictable (and how to make peace with it) The financial reality of building a business - why I don't make what I could in corporate Expect the unexpected: setbacks, pivots, and learning on the fly The story of how I said yes to creative directing without ever doing it before Why self-awareness is more important than skills or degrees Taking ownership instead of playing the victim How to use your personality tests and self-knowledge to run your business Community is everything - you can't build alone Finding your people: other entrepreneurs, masterminds, work dates Why celebrating wins is easier (and better) now than year one The three things you need: grit, resilience, and self-awareness Why discipline outlives motivation every single time Let's Connect: @inbetweenconvos | @kassidy.owen Kassidy Lynne Socials: @kassidylynnesocials | website Produced by: Podcast & Co.