Wander Mode

In this fun and lively podcast interview, I chat with author Kristin Nilson about her book 'Worldwide Crush' and her creative journey. Kristin shares insights into her writing process, the inspiration behind her novel, and the essence of her podcast, Pop Culture Preservation Society. She delves into the importance of nurturing creativity, the impact of childhood crushes, and the power of shared pop culture experiences. 

Kristin also offers practical advice for aspiring creatives, emphasizing the value of taking small steps and the Pomodoro method for time management. With intriguing hidden celebrity crushes woven into the book, Kristin's engaging storytelling and passion for preserving pop culture make for a delightful and insightful conversation. I loved every minute of chatting with Kristin and definitely have it on my to-list to have her back after the release of her second book!

00:00 Welcome to the Podcast with Kristin Nilsen!

00:40 Diving Deep: Kristin's Unique Take on Motherhood and Creativity

01:15 The CEO of Long Sleeve T-Shirts: A Motherhood Journey

03:57 From Mundane to Meaningful: Navigating Motherhood's Challenges

06:02 The Transformative Power of Motherhood and Creativity

11:36 Worldwide Crush: A Tale of Mothers, Daughters, and Self-Discovery

17:24 Parenting Insights: Listening, Validating, and the Shift to Independence

23:40 Finding Creativity and Identity Beyond Motherhood

29:05 The Creative Journey Begins: From Blogging to Novel Writing

29:30 Finding Inspiration in Childhood and Pop Culture

30:38 The Process of Writing a Novel: Classes, Motivation, and Characters

33:01 Exploring the Phenomenon of Childhood Crushes

35:30 Addressing the Controversy: Validating Children's Feelings

37:50 The Power of Pretend Play and Imagination

42:56 Pop Culture Preservation Society: Celebrating Gen X Nostalgia

47:01 Embracing Opportunities and Creative Advice

53:53 Connecting with Kristin and Final Thoughts

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After a captivating conversation with Caitlin Cunningham last week, I couldn't resist dedicating today's episode to sharing my personal journey of adventuring with my kiddo.

In this episode, I'll uncover the heartwarming reasons behind embarking on these family adventures, weaving personal stories and the insightful words of young-adult author Jacqueline Davies, who beautifully expressed that "every journey with kids is an opportunity to teach them about the world, about others, and about themselves." From creating everlasting memories to fostering deep connections, promoting physical activity, teaching resilience, and nurturing a sense of wonder, the benefits of adventuring with kids are boundless. s.

But let's get practical. In the second part of this episode, I'll share essential tips and must-have products to make your family adventures not just doable but enjoyable. From timing your travels to versatile products for sleep, potty training, and transport, I've got you covered. Remember, successful adventuring is not just about the gear; it's about your mindset. So, leave behind the to-do lists, unrealistic expectations, and embrace the unexpected.

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In this engaging podcast episode, I interview Caitlin Cunningham, a passionate mom from Alberta, Canada, who shares her inspiring journey into adventure parenting. Caitlin, a stay-at-home mom and virtual assistant, discusses her unique experiences of embarking on road trips across Canada with her two boys, two dogs, and a camper. The conversation dives into Caitlin's personal history with camping, her transition to RV life, and the transformative impact it had on her family's connection.

As Caitlin narrates her adventure parenting experiences, she highlights the joys and challenges of exploring nature with kids. The discussion touches on camping gear, safety considerations, and the cherished memories created during their travels. The podcast also unveils Caitlin's plans to launch a course empowering moms to navigate the camping and adventure parenting world. Whether you're an experienced camper or a novice, Caitlin's insights offer valuable perspectives on family adventures and the enriching moments they bring.

Caitlin Cunningham @adventures.with.kiddos

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In a recent interview with Libby Trader, we delved into various aspects of life, from business and leadership to philanthropy and retirement. This prompted me to reflect on the impactful female leaders who have influenced my path. Starting with my mom, a relentless force who dedicated herself to every role, I learned the value of hard work, commitment, and balancing personal interests. Sue, a compassionate mentor during high school, showed me the importance of trust and love. Fast forward to my teaching career, where Christy, the principal at the middle school, became more than just a boss, embodying dedication, support, and genuine care. As I navigate life, Libby, a strong presence in my family, inspires adventures and accomplishments. Grateful for these exceptional women, I am reminded of Dolly Parton's wisdom: "If your actions create a legacy that inspires others, you are an excellent leader." This is a tribute to the outstanding leaders who inspire me to dream, learn, do, and become more.

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Join me in this episode as we explore the amazing journey of Libby Trader, a woman who conquered the corporate world and mastered the delicate dance of balancing work, family, and the joys of retirement. Libby's story is a rollercoaster of challenges, triumphs, and heartwarming moments, from managing a small leather shop in high school to holding major roles at major corporations. 

She shares her secrets to success, including her golden rule of always making it home for dinner, and reflects on the pleasures of retirement, treating it as a new adventure filled with fun activities and inspiration. Libby's narrative is not just about climbing the corporate ladder; she's also a giver, founding Upturnships, a non-profit helping first-generation college students secure internships.

Join me for a journey of motivation, laughter, and valuable lessons from a woman who truly knows how to balance a successful career, motherhood, and the joys of retirement!

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In reflecting on my recent interview with Veronica Stratton about a plant-based lifestyle, I've realized the tendency I have to adopt an "all or nothing" mindset in various aspects of my life. Veronica's insight that it's what we do most of the time that matters struck a chord with me. I often find myself fully committed to exercising, maintaining a good sleep routine, managing work commitments, or on the opposite end of the spectrum. 

Inspired by my goal to regain strength and shift my mindset, I've learned to align my goals with my values, particularly the value of being present for my daughter. This shift has helped me maintain consistency in my strength goal and approach challenges positively. While it's challenging to break free from the "all or nothing" mentality entirely, I've discovered that slowing down, focusing on small changes, and aligning goals with values can keep me in a more balanced and manageable space, even if perfection is unattainable.

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Join me in an enlightening conversation with Veronica Stratton, a passionate advocate for plant-based nutrition, gut health, and holistic well-being. In this episode, we delve into the intricacies of how a plant-based diet can revolutionize the lives of women. Discover the powerful connection between plant-based choices and hormonal balance, bone health, and overall vitality. Veronica shares practical insights and valuable advice for navigating the journey towards optimal health. Whether you're a seasoned plant-based enthusiast or just curious about holistic wellness, this episode is packed with wisdom that transcends age. Tune in and empower your wellness journey with actionable tips and transformative insights!

Veronica on Instagram
Veronica's Free Probiotic Guide

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In the latest podcast episode of Wander Mode, I had an eye-opening conversation with the incredible Taylor Powelson. Taylor shared invaluable insights on the significance of aligning our lifestyles with our menstrual cycles, offering practical tips to maximize rest, productivity, creativity, and even exercise routines.

After my chat with Taylor, I found myself grappling with the disparity between what I thought I knew about my body and the reality. This prompted a heart-to-heart with my bestie, leading to a moment of clarity. I realized that as a mom, my desire to guide my daughter in embracing and understanding her body required me to first embark on that journey myself.

Wild Power book

Own Your Rhythm book

My newsletter list

Waitlist for Cycle Sync Academy - March enrollment

taylor@bewellwithtay.com

My IG: @bewellwithtay

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Email me at julie@wandermode.co
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I had the pleasure of chatting with Taylor Powelson, an expert in menstrual cycle syncing. We delved into the fascinating world of understanding and harnessing the power of the menstrual cycle for a more fulfilling life. From the impact of hormonal fluctuations on exercise and nutrition to the nuances of productivity and stress management, Taylor provided invaluable insights into tailoring one's lifestyle to the rhythm of the menstrual cycle. She shared practical tips, debunked myths, and uncovered the personalized nature of this journey. Taylor's course, Cycle Sync Academy, has been launched and is already impacting the lives of women around the world! Join us as we unravel the secrets of menstrual cycle awareness and embark on a journey towards optimal well-being with Taylor as our guide.

Wild Power book

Own Your Rhythm book

My newsletter list

Waitlist for Cycle Sync Academy - March enrollment

taylor@bewellwithtay.com

My IG: @bewellwithtay

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Email me at julie@wandermode.co
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As we dive into the world of New Year's resolutions, self-improvement plans, and goal-setting, I want to acknowledge that we're just 10 days into the new year. If you're feeling a bit overwhelmed or have already strayed from your goals, you're not alone, and I get it.

Now, I know there are countless podcasts and videos out there about goal-setting, and you might be wondering why you should tune into this one. Well, here's the scoop—I recently had a game-changing conversation with Aimee Olson from Life Done Simply, and it set the tone for a successful start to 2024. Aimee emphasized the importance of aligning our goals with our values, and that really struck a chord with me.

THEN, I stumbled upon an insightful episode from the Mel Robbins podcast titled "How to Set and Achieve Goals: Two Surprising Science-Backed Steps You Must Follow." In this episode, Mel dives into the why and how of goal achievement. She highlights the significance of understanding the "why" behind our goals and emphasizes the need for a strategic plan—the "how." These two steps, focusing on the will and the way, resonated with me as they align perfectly with the approach Aimee shared with me.

I'll be sharing how I've applied these principles to my goals for 2024—getting back to feeling strong and shifting my mindset. The key is not just setting goals but anchoring them in our values and strategically planning the way forward.

Mel Robbins Podcast "How to Set & Achieve Goals"
Wander Mode Podcast "Simply Thriving"

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I interviewed Aimee Olson, a powerhouse in the productivity and organizing space! Aimee is the brains behind Life Done Simply, where she helps people simplify their lives and align with their core values. In this episode, Aimee opens up about her journey, starting from the overwhelm and misalignment she experienced as a CEO to the intentional, minimalist lifestyle she now leads in an RV.

We dive into the impact of social media and societal expectations on our clutter tendencies. Aimee provides actionable tips on setting boundaries and asking aligning questions to declutter our lives. Her unique perspective on right-sizing our lives, focusing on core values, not just physical possessions, is a breath of fresh air.

This episode is filled with practical advice and valuable insights if you seek a more intentional and simplified life in the coming year. Stay tuned for a conversation that might change how you approach decluttering and goal setting in 2024.

Simply Aligned Online Course
Life Done Simply Website
Facebook
LinkedIn
Instagram

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In August, I had the incredible opportunity to be interviewed by Kallai Plummer, a Fractional COO. Kallai, who partners with businesses to streamline daily processes, was the first person to say "yes" to featuring me on her podcast, just two months after I transitioned from teaching to podcasting. This revelation prompted me to reflect on the numerous inspiring women I encountered on my podcasting journey who, like Kallai, said "yes" to collaboration. From a mental health counselor shifting to entrepreneurship to a tarot card reader launching a passion project during the pandemic, these affirmative responses were life-changing, leading to unexpected opportunities, personal growth, and newfound confidence in my podcasting and business endeavors.

Another significant realization emerged from my conversation with Kallai, as I grappled with a lack of confidence and direction in my business during the early stages of podcasting. Despite recent feelings of discouragement over perceived slow progress, I've come to appreciate that progress, even if gradual, is still progress. The reflection brought forth an essential lesson: to stop viewing slow progress as an absence of results and to embrace the journey, akin to the wisdom found in the tale of the tortoise and the hare.

My Interview with That Big CEO Energy with Kallai Plummer Podcast

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In this podcast episode, I dive into the inspiring tale of KobiCo, a mother-daughter duo, Tasha Harris and Kobi Gregory, whose story left an indelible mark on me. From their unique candle business to the magical ambiance of their store, I explore the intersection of entrepreneurship and self-care. Reflecting on my own journey, I discuss the challenges of maintaining self-care amidst the dynamic landscape of launching a business. 

The story unfolds from my initial encounter with Kobi's high school journey to the heartfelt advice from Tasha, urging me not to make myself small. As I share the pivotal moments, including the highs of podcasting and the lows of feeling overwhelmed in September, listeners will join me in rediscovering the importance of self-care. Through anecdotes of finding a business coach, navigating social media challenges, and the gentle return to self-care, this episode resonates with the delicate dance entrepreneurs face in balancing passion, ambition, and personal well-being.

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This episode features an interview with Kobi Gregory and Tasha Harris, the mother-daughter duo behind KobiCo, a unique candle company that combines scents with curated playlists. I simply love the elements of self-care, entrepreneurship, and giving back in their story. Kobi and Tasha share how KobiCo was founded during the challenges of 2020, with Kobi initially wanting to fund a college tour. The candles, each accompanied by a playlist, became a therapeutic outlet for Kobi during quarantine, addressing her mental health struggles. Tasha, having recently left a corporate career, joined forces with Kobi, and together, they navigated the challenges of running a business while emphasizing the importance of self-care. This episode highlights their journey, challenges, and the unexpected joy KobiCo brings, not only to customers but also to the mother-daughter team.

KobiCo Instagram
KobiCo Facebook
KobiCo Holiday Shop

Scholarships:
Kobi Co. Scholarship: https://www.lovekobico.com/pages/scholarship
Anaja McNeal Scholarship fund: https://www.gofundme.com/f/anaja-griffin-mcneal-hbcu-scholarship

Accelerators:
Sistah Biz -https://www.sistah.biz/
Lunar Startups -https://www.lunarstartups.org/
MEDA Ascend -https://www.meda.org/
Goldman Sachs - https://www.goldmansachs.com/our-commitments/sustainability/one-million-black-women/
NDC - https://www.ndc-mn.org/

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In this episode of "Mom Boss in Wander Mode," I share a love of design going back to my high school days! I followed my calling to be a teacher but never let my love for design be dormant. I designed everything from curriculum to our homes, and now I get to design spaces for vacationers to enjoy through our rental properties. So blessed to do something every day that fuels my passion, and today, I tell my story of how my design passion met its ultimate partner in crime, vacation rentals! 

00:00 Introduction and Background

00:51 The Role of Design in My Life

01:50 The Evolution of My Home Designs

04:42 The Impact of Conversations with Kate

05:28 The Intersection of Passion and Profession

06:17 The Start of My Vacation Rental Journey

07:20 The Challenges and Rewards of Vacation Rental Business

08:10 The Expansion of My Vacation Rental Portfolio

10:42 The Design Challenges in Different Locations

15:20 The Importance of Passion in Work

16:50 The Power of Shifting Focus to Passion

20:18 Conclusion: The Ripple Effect of Passion

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Buckle up because today's "Wander Mode" episode is a whirlwind with the incredible Kate Schilling. Kate shares her journey of turning houses into dream spaces from teaching English to conquering the DIY world.

We're not just talking about paint colors but diving into the highs and challenges of running a home remodeling business. Kate spills the secrets on balancing career and personal life, managing finances, and collaborating with other tradespeople. 
We explore Kate's role as a DIY coach, empowering others to embrace their inner makers. And, of course, we peek into the future, uncovering Kate's ambitious plans for her business.

Grab your coffee and hit "play" for a chat about the inspiring story of a woman who turned her DIY dreams into a thriving reality. It's time for another adventure on "Wander Mode"!

The Home(re)Work Website
Home(re)Work Facebook
Home(re)Work Instagram
Home(re)Work TikTok

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In this uplifting episode of "Mom Boss in Wander Mode," host Julie Thomas explores the transformative power of gratitude. She delves into the mental and emotional benefits of thankfulness, emphasizing its positive impact on mindset. Julie then shares her personal gratitude list, highlighting five unique and heartfelt things she's thankful for this year. From living in a time of possibility for women to the joy of traveling again and the warmth of her daughter's kind heart, Julie's reflections resonate with authenticity. The episode concludes with practical tips for listeners to activate thankfulness in their lives, encouraging practices like keeping a gratitude journal, expressing gratitude to others, and using visual reminders to cultivate a mindset of positivity. Tune in for an energizing journey into the world of gratitude and discover the joy it can bring to your life!

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Welcome to Season 2 of the Wander Mode podcast! In today's episode, I'm sharing some awesome travel tips for parents with toddlers. It's all about making your family adventures smooth and stress-free!

First things first, having a positive mindset is key. We'll discuss the power of staying calm and open to unexpected situations during your trips. Plus, I'll share how effective communication with your partner can make a big difference in your travel experience.

Packing can be a challenge, but fear not! I have some cool tricks to help you organize your travel essentials smartly. We'll explore the world of potty training while traveling and find out how to handle those tricky situations.

Planning activities that match your child's interests are super important. I'll guide you on how to make your travel plans exciting for your little one. And don't forget about the importance of taking personal trips as a couple! It's all about balance, right?

Join me for some practical advice, inspiring stories, and empowering tips to make your family travels unforgettable. Get ready for stress-free parenting while exploring the world. Let's embark on this adventure together! Safe travels, everyone!

Jool Baby Travel Seat 
Oxo Tot Bag Refill
Oxo Tot Travel Potty
Micro Kickboard Travel Suitcase

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In this episode of Wander Mode Podcast, join me on a  journey filled with laughter, mishaps, and unforgettable moments as I explore the world of solo travel with incredible women. From the bustling streets of Florence to the picturesque coast of England, I recount my very first all-women trip to Italy, sharing amusing travel blunders and heartwarming friendships with listeners. 

The episode delves into the essence of female camaraderie, highlighting the unbreakable bond among women who support one another wholeheartedly, celebrating each other's joys, and offering shoulders to lean on during tough times. 

Tune in to be inspired by the strength of female friendships and discover the transformative power of travel in restoring the soul. 

Get ready to laugh, learn, and be motivated to embark on your own empowering adventures with your crew of fabulous women!

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Email me at julie@wandermode.co
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Thank you for listening to the Wander Mode Podcast!

Email me at julie@wandermode.co
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