Diaries of a Boss Babe

#18 Liz Wagner: Forgiveness After Betrayal: A Journey of Healing and Unconditional Love

In this deeply personal episode, Liz Wagner, owner of Glo Inside Out Mobile Spray Tans, opens up about her journey through love, infidelity, and forgiveness in a way that resonates with the heart of every listener. Liz invites us to walk with her through the challenges of early marriage, the journey of healing after infidelity, and the powerful choice to see her husband through the lens of unconditional love. Her transparency in discussing these intimate moments is nothing short of inspiring, and she reveals the strength and vulnerability it takes to rebuild trust in a relationship tested by hardship.
Together, we explore the impact of childhood memories and family dynamics on who we become, as well as the unique perspective she’s gained through these experiences. Liz's journey isn’t just about her marriage but is also a testament to her resilience as a mother and entrepreneur. We dive into her story of navigating grief, after very recently loosing her mother, balancing family with her thriving business, and her dreams for the future.
Tune in for a candid conversation about forgiveness, self-compassion, and the courage it takes to let go and move forward. Don’t miss the chance to connect with Liz on a whole new level. Follow her on Instagram @gio_spraytans and visit her new website HERE to keep up with her journey and business.
 
To learn more about your host, Katelyn Gerhardt: 
Cultivate with KG: Katelyn is a business coach, consultant and speaker specializing in help women build their empire as a fierce and loving woman! She helps you bridge the gap between where you are now and where you dream to be. With a focus on building the woman who makes her daydreams a reality, she helps you get crystal clear on what you want and helps you implement the plan to get there one step at a time. If you're looking to start or build a business, grow your team, expand, hire, or create an intentional company culture; let's do it. She's helped hundreds of women master their time so they can build the life they desire. She offers self paced courses, 1:1 coaching and workshops!
Independence Academy: In 2015, Katelyn co-founded Independence Academy a private Montessori and Reggio inspired school serving children 2 yrs through elementary. Sitting on 13 acres, Independence Academy is a place where children are immersed in nature and are taking back their childhood. With a team of 30+ women, (and her smokin' hot and oh so wise husband), Katelyn's mission is to create a ripple affect that will impact the lives of the children that attend, their families, and her team to give them skills and a mindset that will forever serve them on their journey. 
Diaries of a Boss Babe Podcast: The passion project! Cultivating community is the main mission of this podcast. To connect, to relate, to create magic one conversation at a time. Come follow along on Instagram where we keep the conversation going and need YOUR input! 
 

#17 Breanna Imperial: Health is the Foundation to your Freedom

In this episode, I'm joined by the powerhouse Breanna Imperial—a woman whose life story is filled with resilience, heart, and tenacity. Breanna’s energy lights up the conversation as she shares her remarkable journey from a childhood spent overseas in Russia and Germany to joining the military at a young age, all driven by a fierce desire to serve. We dive into her personal challenges navigating military life, meeting her "super sexy lieutenant" hubby, and hear her story of battling complex health issues, including Lyme disease and mold toxicity, while advocating for herself within a healthcare system that often fell short.
We discuss her new ventures with Holistic Health by Tricare and Imperial Vitality, both launched out of a pure passion ignited through the pain. 
Through honest reflections and real insights, Breanna reveals the often-overlooked struggles of chronic illness and the strength it takes to balance motherhood, marriage, and healing. Her story highlights the power of persistence and the need to take charge of one’s health, pushing listeners to dig deep, trust their instincts, and seek answers beyond traditional medicine. Breanna's journey is an inspiration for anyone facing obstacles—reminding us of the importance of self-advocacy, community support, and the pursuit of holistic health. 
🎧 *Tune in now* to feel inspired, uplifted, and empowered. Breanna’s story isn’t just one to listen to; it’s one that will make you rethink your approach to health, life, and resilience. Don’t miss this conversation—it’s raw, real, and full of life-changing insight!
 
To learn more about your host, Katelyn Gerhardt: 
Cultivate with KG: Katelyn is a business coach, consultant and speaker specializing in help women build their empire as a fierce and loving woman! She helps you bridge the gap between where you are now and where you dream to be. With a focus on building the woman who makes her daydreams a reality, she helps you get crystal clear on what you want and helps you implement the plan to get there one step at a time. If you're looking to start or build a business, grow your team, expand, hire, or create an intentional company culture; let's do it. She's helped hundreds of women master their time so they can build the life they desire. She offers self paced courses, 1:1 coaching and workshops!
Independence Academy: In 2015, Katelyn co-founded Independence Academy a private Montessori and Reggio inspired school serving children 2 yrs through elementary. Sitting on 13 acres, Independence Academy is a place where children are immersed in nature and are taking back their childhood. With a team of 30+ women, (and her smokin' hot and oh so wise husband), Katelyn's mission is to create a ripple affect that will impact the lives of the children that attend, their families, and her team to give them skills and a mindset that will forever serve them on their journey. 
Diaries of a Boss Babe Podcast: The passion project! Cultivating community is the main mission of this podcast. To connect, to relate, to create magic one conversation at a time. Come follow along on Instagram where we keep the conversation going and need YOUR input! 
 

#16 Shelane Etchison: The Journey to Congress

Shelane Etchison, a U.S. Army veteran and candidate for Congress in North Carolina's 9th District. Shelane’s distinguished military career, which includes service as a Military Police officer and pioneering roles in special operations alongside Army Rangers and Navy SEALs, speaks to her dedication to principled leadership. After deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan, and Syria, she hung up her 11 year military career and headed to Harvard. There she earned both an MBA from Harvard Business School and an MPP from Harvard Kennedy School of Government. Now, she’s running as an unaffiliated candidate, committed to breaking the gridlock of partisan politics.
Read more about where she stands HERE
During our conversation, Shelane reflects on her journey from military service to politics, the importance of civic engagement, and the challenges faced by women in leadership. As she prepares to welcome her first child, Shelane also shares her thoughts on raising the next generation with integrity, empathy, and a strong sense of community in an increasingly digital age. We discuss critical issues such as the impact of technology on youth, balancing personal and professional life, and the role of community values in parenting and policymaking.
Our conversation underscores the importance of local candidates and why it's essential to research beyond party lines. Shelane's story is a testament to courage and commitment, reminding us that civic duty starts with informed choices. Whether you're a military family, a parent, a mom who continues to follow her passion, or someone concerned about the future of our democracy, this conversation offers valuable insights on leadership, responsibility, and the power of voting.
Tune in, do your research, and remember—your vote matters more than you think.
To learn more about your host, Katelyn Gerhardt: 
Cultivate with KG: Katelyn is a business coach, consultant and speaker specializing in help women build their empire as a fierce and loving woman! She helps you bridge the gap between where you are now and where you dream to be. With a focus on building the woman who makes her daydreams a reality, she helps you get crystal clear on what you want and helps you implement the plan to get there one step at a time. If you're looking to start or build a business, grow your team, expand, hire, or create an intentional company culture; let's do it. She's helped hundreds of women master their time so they can build the life they desire. She offers self paced courses, 1:1 coaching and workshops!
Independence Academy: In 2015, Katelyn co-founded Independence Academy a private Montessori and Reggio inspired school serving children 2 yrs through elementary. Sitting on 13 acres, Independence Academy is a place where children are immersed in nature and are taking back their childhood. With a team of 30+ women, (and her smokin' hot and oh so wise husband), Katelyn's mission is to create a ripple affect that will impact the lives of the children that attend, their families, and her team to give them skills and a mindset that will forever serve them on their journey. 
Diaries of a Boss Babe Podcast: The passion project! Cultivating community is the main mission of this podcast. To connect, to relate, to create magic one conversation at a time. Come follow along on Instagram where we keep the conversation going and need YOUR input! 
 

#15 Dr. Jennifer Reid - Naked Fridays

In this compelling episode, I sit down with Dr. Jennifer Reid as she shares her inspiring transition from nurse practitioner to functional medicine expert. Jennifer opens up about her experiences in hospice care, the vital need for advanced directives, and the profound impact of COVID-19 on the healthcare system. This conversation dives deep into women’s health, with a focus on hormonal balance, heart disease, and the often-overlooked symptoms of perimenopause and menopause.
Jennifer sheds light on the importance of patient-centered care, understanding hormonal health, and breaking the taboo around sexual health and intimacy. We explore how stress, nutrition, and movement play crucial roles in overall well-being and discuss the misconceptions surrounding hormone replacement therapy. Whether you’re curious about fertility, gut health, or navigating the challenges of empty nesting, this episode is packed with actionable insights and thought-provoking reflections on health and relationships. Oh and of course, you'll learn why this episode is titled Naked Fridays. 
Tune in for an honest and educational discussion that will leave you empowered to take charge of your health and well-being!
GET YOUR PROM TICKET HERE FOR OCT 19!
 
Listen now on Spotify, Apple and iHeart Radio.
To learn more about your host, Katelyn Gerhardt: 
Cultivate with KG: Katelyn is a business coach, consultant and speaker specializing in help women build their empire as a fierce and loving woman! She helps you bridge the gap between where you are now and where you dream to be. With a focus on building the woman who makes her daydreams a reality, she helps you get crystal clear on what you want and helps you implement the plan to get there one step at a time. If you're looking to start or build a business, grow your team, expand, hire, or create an intentional company culture; let's do it. She's helped hundreds of women master their time so they can build the life they desire. She offers self paced courses, 1:1 coaching and workshops!
Independence Academy: In 2015, Katelyn co-founded Independence Academy a private Montessori and Reggio inspired school serving children 2 yrs through elementary. Sitting on 13 acres, Independence Academy is a place where children are immersed in nature and are taking back their childhood. With a team of 30+ women, (and her smokin' hot and deeply wise husband), Katelyn's mission is to create a ripple affect that will impact the lives of the children that attend, their families, and her team to give them skills and a mindset that will forever serve them on their journey. 
Diaries of a Boss Babe Podcast: The passion project! Cultivating community is the main mission of this podcast. To connect, to relate, to create magic one conversation at a time. Come follow along on Instagram where we keep the conversation going and need YOUR input! 
 

#14 Taylor England: The Grit & The Glam

In this exciting episode of Diaries of a Boss Babe, I sit down with Taylor England, the unassuming yet hilarious powerhouse behind the soon-to-be-launched premier bridal boutique, Taylor Lawrence Bridal. Taylor shares her incredible journey filled with grit, determination, and plenty of laughs. Together, we explore the delicate balance of entrepreneurship and family life, from navigating the unique challenges faced by military families to the significance of self-care and community support.
Taylor dives into her morning routines that help set the stage for productivity, and we tackle misconceptions about women's appearance and how feeling put together can be a game-changer. We also discuss the importance of delegation, building a strong support system, and making space for personal growth while juggling a growing business. There are about 147 tangents along the way, because duh.
Whether you're curious about what it takes to truly be an entrepreneur or looking for inspiration on balancing ambition with contentment, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. Tune in for an honest, engaging, and uplifting conversation that will leave you motivated to prioritize your well-being and pursue your passions!
 
GET YOUR PROM TICKET HERE FOR OCT 19!
 
Listen now on Spotify, Apple and iHeart Radio.
To learn more about your host, Katelyn Gerhardt: 
Cultivate with KG: Katelyn is a business coach, consultant and speaker specializing in help women build their empire as a fierce and loving woman! She helps you bridge the gap between where you are now and where you dream to be. With a focus on building the woman who makes her daydreams a reality, she helps you get crystal clear on what you want and helps you implement the plan to get there one step at a time. If you're looking to start or build a business, grow your team, expand, hire, or create an intentional company culture; let's do it. She's helped hundreds of women master their time so they can build the life they desire. She offers self paced courses, 1:1 coaching and workshops!
Independence Academy: In 2015, Katelyn co-founded Independence Academy a private Montessori and Reggio inspired school serving children 2 yrs through elementary. Sitting on 13 acres, Independence Academy is a place where children are immersed in nature and are taking back their childhood. With a team of 30+ women, (and her smokin' hot and deeply wise husband), Katelyn's mission is to create a ripple affect that will impact the lives of the children that attend, their families, and her team to give them skills and a mindset that will forever serve them on their journey. 
Diaries of a Boss Babe Podcast: The passion project! Cultivating community is the main mission of this podcast. To connect, to relate, to create magic one conversation at a time. Come follow along on Instagram where we keep the conversation going and need YOUR input! 
 

#13 Peighton Woodard - The Evolution of an Entrepreneur

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Peighton Woodward, founder of the fem tech wellness app Luna Leaf, to explore her incredible journey of entrepreneurship, personal growth, and the power of aligning with your biological rhythms. Peighton opens up about the challenges of launching Luna Leaf, an app designed to empower women through cycle syncing and wellness, and shares how understanding the menstrual cycle can transform lives.
From navigating military life and relationships to trusting her intuition and finding healing, Peighton’s story is one of self-discovery and resilience. She reflects on her experience as a mother and entrepreneur, candidly discussing the fears and judgments that come with both roles. As a graduate of the prestigious Founder Institute, Peighton reveals how community, connection, and self-belief played a key role in her success.
This episode is packed with insights on personal and professional evolution, the importance of supportive relationships, and memorable lessons learned along the way. Join us as we explore what it takes to build a meaningful business, trust yourself, and align with life’s natural rhythms.
Don’t miss this deep dive into the heart of entrepreneurship, wellness, and the journey to self-acceptance.
Listen now on Spotify, Apple and iHeart Radio.
To learn more about your host, Katelyn Gerhardt: 
Cultivate with KG: Katelyn is a business coach, consultant and speaker specializing in help women build their empire as a fierce and loving woman! She helps you bridge the gap between where you are now and where you dream to be. With a focus on building the woman who makes her daydreams a reality, she helps you get crystal clear on what you want and helps you implement the plan to get there one step at a time. If you're looking to start or build a business, grow your team, expand, hire, or create an intentional company culture; let's do it. She's helped hundreds of women master their time so they can build the life they desire. She offers self paced courses, 1:1 coaching and workshops!
Independence Academy: In 2015, Katelyn co-founded Independence Academy a private Montessori and Reggio inspired school serving children 2 yrs through elementary. Sitting on 13 acres, Independence Academy is a place where children are immersed in nature and are taking back their childhood. With a team of 30+ women, (and her smokin' hot and deeply wise husband), Katelyn's mission is to create a ripple affect that will impact the lives of the children that attend, their families, and her team to give them skills and a mindset that will forever serve them on their journey. 
Diaries of a Boss Babe Podcast: The passion project! Cultivating community is the main mission of this podcast. To connect, to relate, to create magic one conversation at a time. Come follow along on Instagram where we keep the conversation going and need YOUR input! 

#12 Heather Cestaro - LIFE: I thought I was going to hate this, but I'm having a great time!

Join me for an enlightening conversation with my dear friend, Heather Cestaro, as we unravel the intricate threads that weave our lives together. Heather was the Director at our school, Independence Academy for several years. From her upbringing, being adopted as a young child from Korea, to sexual trauma, drug addiction, finding her incredible husband and becoming a mother...We navigate through all of it. In this episode, we dive deep into the complexities of family dynamics, explore how the Enneagram can illuminate our understanding of personality, and discuss the pivotal role emotional health plays in shaping self-perception. 
With candid discussions and heartfelt stories, this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of relationships, personal growth and well...LIFE.
Don’t miss this opportunity to dive into our conversation...almost eavesdropping on our afternoon tea. I promise you'll find an engaging conversation that ignites inspiration and will truly resonate with your own experiences. 
Tune in now on Spotify, Apple, or iHeartRadio
 
To learn more about your host, Katelyn Gerhardt: 
Cultivate with KG: Katelyn is a business coach, consultant and speaker specializing in help women build their empire as a fierce and loving woman! She helps you bridge the gap between where you are now and where you dream to be. With a focus on building the woman who makes her daydreams a reality, she helps you get crystal clear on what you want and helps you implement the plan to get there one step at a time. If you're looking to start or build a business, grow your team, expand, hire, or create an intentional company culture; let's do it. She's helped hundreds of women master their time so they can build the life they desire. She offers self paced courses, 1:1 coaching and workshops!
Independence Academy: In 2015, Katelyn co-founded Independence Academy a private Montessori and Reggio inspired school serving children 2 yrs through elementary. Sitting on 13 acres, Independence Academy is a place where children are immersed in nature and are taking back their childhood. With a team of 30+ women, (and her smokin' hot and deeply wise husband), Katelyn's mission is to create a ripple affect that will impact the lives of the children that attend, their families, and her team to give them skills and a mindset that will forever serve them on their journey. 
Diaries of a Boss Babe Podcast: The passion project! Cultivating community is the main mission of this podcast. To connect, to relate, to create magic one conversation at a time. Come follow along on Instagram where we keep the conversation going and need YOUR input! 

Episode 10: Taryn McCracken - The Courage in Surrender

 
In this dynamic episode, I sit down with a very special guest—my sister-in-law, Taryn McCracken—to dive deep into the beautiful, messy, and empowering world of motherhood, self-care, and relationships. We get vulnerable while, literally, opening her diary, as she spills her heart.
Follow her journey at @womb_empower for all things womanhood, mothering, and creating the high vibe version of yourself.
We talk about everything from balancing feminine and masculine energies to navigating the highs and lows of raising both boys and girls. Taryn shares her raw and inspiring journey of hitting the bottom in her relationship, finding her inner strength, and rebuilding her life with grace and purpose. Together, we explore how embracing our differences can help us grow as women, mothers, and partners.
Tune in as we get real about setting boundaries, practicing open communication, and finding that delicate balance between giving and receiving love. Whether you’re curious about the challenges of parenting, want tips on self-care, or need a reminder that you’re never alone on this journey, this episode will resonate deeply. 
Prepare to laugh, learn, and feel all the feels as Taryn opens up about her experiences with love, grief, and the power of vulnerability.
Tune in now on Spotify, Apple, or iHeartRadio
 
To learn more about your host, Katelyn Gerhardt: 
Cultivate with KG: Katelyn is a business coach, consultant and speaker specializing in help women build their empire as a fierce and loving woman! She helps you bridge the gap between where you are now and where you dream to be. With a focus on building the woman who makes her daydreams a reality, she helps you get crystal clear on what you want and helps you implement the plan to get there one step at a time. If you're looking to start or build a business, grow your team, expand, hire, or create an intentional company culture; let's do it. She's helped hundreds of women master their time so they can build the life they desire. She offers self paced courses, 1:1 coaching and workshops!
Independence Academy: In 2015, Katelyn co-founded Independence Academy a private Montessori and Reggio inspired school serving children 2 yrs through elementary. Sitting on 13 acres, Independence Academy is a place where children are immersed in nature and are taking back their childhood. With a team of 30+ women, (and her smokin' hot and deeply wise husband), Katelyn's mission is to create a ripple affect that will impact the lives of the children that attend, their families, and her team to give them skills and a mindset that will forever serve them on their journey. 
Diaries of a Boss Babe Podcast: The passion project! Cultivating community is the main mission of this podcast. To connect, to relate, to create magic one conversation at a time. Come follow along on Instagram where we keep the conversation going and need YOUR input! 

Episode 9: Melissa Comfort McRae - The Independent Woman

In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Melissa Comfort McRae, a dynamic mom of two and Finance Director for a telecom negotiation firm & fashion influencer, who shares the intricate dance of balancing career, motherhood, and personal growth. Melissa opens up about her unique journey from a career in architecture to finance, and the unexpected yet rewarding transition into affiliate marketing. Her story is one of resilience, adaptability, and the constant evolution that comes with being a working mom in today’s world.
Follow her @irontractorfinds
Melissa candidly reflects on her upbringing and the complex relationship with her biological mother, emphasizing the strength she’s found in independence and the importance of forging her own path. As a single mom, she navigates the challenges of balancing masculine and feminine energies, a delicate equilibrium many of us can relate to. Melissa also shares the shock and joy of discovering a half-brother through a DNA test, a revelation that added a new layer to her understanding of family and identity.
For all the moms and career women out there, this episode is a reminder of the power of self-care and the necessity of setting boundaries. Melissa’s love for running serves as her therapy, a time when she reconnects with herself and recharges for the demands of both her career and motherhood. We dive into the emotional landscape of motherhood, where the desire to be strong and independent meets the need to embrace femininity and ask for help.
Join us as we explore themes of trust, friendship, and the lasting impact of our past experiences on our journey toward personal growth. Whether you’re navigating the corporate world, raising children, or doing both, Melissa’s story will resonate with you, offering both inspiration and validation for the multifaceted roles we play as women, mothers, and professionals.
Tune in on Spotify, Apple, and iHeartRadio
To learn more about your host, Katelyn Gerhardt: 
Cultivate with KG: Katelyn is a business coach, consultant and speaker specializing in help women build their empire as a fierce and loving woman! She helps you bridge the gap between where you are now and where you dream to be. With a focus on building the woman who makes her daydreams a reality, she helps you get crystal clear on what you want and helps you implement the plan to get there one step at a time. If you're looking to start or build a business, grow your team, expand, hire, or create an intentional company culture; let's do it. She's helped hundreds of women master their time so they can build the life they desire. She offers self paced courses, 1:1 coaching and workshops!
Independence Academy: In 2015, Katelyn co-founded Independence Academy a private Montessori and Reggio inspired school serving children 2 yrs through elementary. Sitting on 13 acres, Independence Academy is a place where children are immersed in nature and are taking back their childhood. With a team of 30+ women, (and her smokin' hot and deeply wise husband), Katelyn's mission is to create a ripple affect that will impact the lives of the children that attend, their families, and her team to give them skills and a mindset that will forever serve them on their journey. 
Diaries of a Boss Babe Podcast: The passion project! Cultivating community is the main mission of this podcast. To connect, to relate, to create magic one conversation at a time. Come follow along on Instagram where we keep the conversation going and need YOUR input! 
 
 
 

Episode 8: Sanna Nassar - Welcome Home

Sanna Nassar is a designer, wife, and mom of four. Co-founder of DAHR and DAHR Interior. Join us in this powerful episode, as we sit down with Sanna a remarkable visionary. Sanna opens up about her journey from the struggles of starting her businesses to the triumphs that have shaped her path. 
Sanna delves into the challenges she faced, including financial hurdles and the impacts of 2020 on her business. She shares how her unwavering vision and the strategic decision to bring in people stronger in specific areas helped her businesses thrive. As a leader, Sanna reflects on the necessity of clear communication, strong systems, and the invaluable lessons learned through conflict resolution and setting boundaries.
This episode goes beyond business as Sanna takes us through her personal experiences of growing up as a rebellious teenager, her close bond with her father, and the struggles of being a minority in a small town. She speaks candidly about the challenges of meshing American and Palestinian cultures, both for herself and her children, and her deep desire for them to feel proud of their heritage.
Sanna's story is one of resilience, growth, and self-discovery. She vulnerably shares her fears of asking for help and the discomfort of embracing vulnerability, but also highlights the gifts of knowledge and confidence that have guided her through life's challenges. Join us as we explore the intersection of culture, leadership, and personal growth with Sanna, a true testament to the power of vision and vulnerability.
Listen now on Spotify, Apple and iHeartRadio
 
To learn more about your host, Katelyn Gerhardt: 
Cultivate with KG: Katelyn is a business coach, consultant and speaker specializing in help women build their empire as a fierce and loving woman! She helps you bridge the gap between where you are now and where you dream to be. With a focus on building the woman who makes her daydreams a reality, she helps you get crystal clear on what you want and helps you implement the plan to get there one step at a time. If you're looking to start or build a business, grow your team, expand, hire, or create an intentional company culture; let's do it. She's helped hundreds of women master their time so they can build the life they desire. She offers self paced courses, 1:1 coaching and workshops!
Independence Academy: In 2015, Katelyn co-founded Independence Academy a private Montessori and Reggio inspired school serving children 2 yrs through elementary. Sitting on 13 acres, Independence Academy is a place where children are immersed in nature and are taking back their childhood. With a team of 30+ women, (and her smokin' hot and deeply wise husband), Katelyn's mission is to create a ripple affect that will impact the lives of the children that attend, their families, and her team to give them skills and a mindset that will forever serve them on their journey. 
Diaries of a Boss Babe Podcast: The passion project! Cultivating community is the main mission of this podcast. To connect, to relate, to create magic one conversation at a time. Come follow along on Instagram where we keep the conversation going and need YOUR input!