Play It Brave Podcast

What does it actually look like to evolve from a successful photographer into a fully embodied luxury brand? In this deeply personal episode of the Play It Brave podcast, I'm taking you behind the scenes with my client and dear friend, Kristen Marie, as she walks through a massive identity shift, creative rebirth, and business rebrand. Kristen has been photographing weddings and adventure elopements for over eight years, and after years of success in the elopement world, her body finally told her something had to change. Together, we talk openly about burnout, redefining success, and the emotional process of growing out of an old identity that no longer fits. We also share what happened during Kristen's immersive coaching retreat at my cabin, where we explored her values, archetypes, subconscious beliefs, and the deeper emotional patterns underneath her business. Then, in a rare behind-the-scenes look, we bring you directly into one of Kristen's real coaching calls along with her brand designer, Kass. You'll hear us brainstorm everything from visual identity and positioning to luxury storytelling, artistic authority, nature-inspired branding, and what it truly means to create a brand that resonates instead of imitates. In this episode, we talk about: The hidden burnout that can happen even inside a successful photography business Why Kristen realized she could no longer continue as an overextended adventure elopement photographer How identity work and nervous system healing play a huge role in luxury rebranding The values and archetypes that shaped Kristen's new direction Moving from "cute girl with a camera" into grounded artistic authority The difference between copying luxury branding and creating true resonance Building a brand inspired by nature, stillness, cinematic storytelling, and emotional depth Why luxury positioning is often more about embodiment than skill level The visual and emotional references influencing Kristen's rebrand, from Ralph Lauren campaigns to Terrence Malick films How photographers can evolve their businesses without abandoning themselves in the process One of the biggest things I hope you take away from this episode is that rebranding is never just about aesthetics. It's not just new fonts, prettier colors, or a more elevated website. A true rebrand asks you to become honest about who you are now, who you've been, and who you're ready to become. Watching Kristen move through this process with so much courage, self-awareness, and openness has been incredibly beautiful. She's not simply trying to book higher-paying weddings. She's learning how to trust herself, honor her energy, deepen her artistry, and create a business that actually supports the life she wants to live. That's the kind of transformation that changes everything. I cannot wait for you to hear this behind-the-scenes conversation and witness what it really looks like to build a brand from the inside out. Click here for more ways to listen to this episode.

On this episode of the Play It Brave podcast, I'm taking a conversation I started on Instagram and going deeper into something I care deeply about: manifestation, intuition, and personal power. Because here's the truth, I don't believe you when you say you don't know who you are or what you want. I say that with love. What I've found, both in my own life and in working with so many of you, is that "not knowing" is often a protection mechanism. It's a way we stay safe from the courage, change, and disruption that comes with actually claiming what we want. So today, I'm breaking down what manifestation really is and what it is not, why your intuition isn't missing, and how subconscious patterns may be quietly running your life and your business. Key Takeaways Manifestation isn't broken. You're just stuck on the first floor Writing lists, vision boards, and affirmations aren't wrong. They are just the beginning. True co-creation requires stepping into your power as a sovereign adult, not staying in a childlike wish and hope dynamic. Most of what you think you want isn't actually yours Your dream life may be shaped by culture, family, religion, or social media. Real manifestation begins when you ask: is this truly my desire, or something I've been taught to want? You don't lack intuition. You're afraid to follow it Intuition often asks you to make hard choices, face uncertainty, or let go of what feels safe. Most people don't want clearer intuition. They want a version that guarantees comfort and certainty. "I don't know what I want" is often a protective pattern When following your truth feels too costly, whether emotionally, financially, or socially, you learn to shut it down. Not knowing becomes a way to avoid the consequences of knowing. Your power leaks in three key places Will I still belong if I change? Will I be safe financially, physically, or emotionally? Will I be judged, envied, or rejected if I grow? Subconscious patterns shape what you believe you're allowed to have Whether it's tying love to achievement, suppressing your needs, or making yourself smaller to be accepted, these patterns directly impact what you try to manifest. You can't out-strategize a subconscious block No marketing plan, sales funnel, or branding strategy can override beliefs like "I'm not allowed to be seen" or "I have to earn love." This is identity work, not just business strategy. Receiving is often harder than giving Many of us are conditioned to overgive because it feels safe. Receiving love, support, money, and rest can feel uncomfortable or even threatening to the nervous system. Transformation happens in the body, not just the mind Real change comes from identifying and rewriting subconscious agreements you made long ago. It is not just about thinking differently, but embodying something new. You likely already know your path. You've just been choosing not to know The real question isn't what you want. It's whether you're willing to stop avoiding it and become the person who can hold it. If there's one thing I want you to take with you, it's this: You are not lost. You are not confused. You are not lacking clarity. You already know. Maybe not every detail, but the direction, the desire, the truth of who you are has been there for a long time. The real work is having the courage to release the patterns that have been keeping you small. Manifestation is not about asking for more. It is about becoming the version of you who can receive it. Book your Receiving Map session here Click here for more ways to listen to this episode.

This episode is a deeply personal one. I sat down with my dear friend Karen McMahon, and while she's known as a high-conflict divorce strategist, this conversation goes far beyond divorce. It's about personal power. It's about self-abandonment. It's about the moment you realize you've been editing yourself to keep the peace, and what it takes to finally come home to yourself. Karen supported me through a major breakup, and what she helped me see changed everything: sometimes what we think is "chemistry" is actually a dysregulated nervous system. Sometimes what we call love is actually a trauma loop. In this episode, we unpack the difference between healthy conflict and high-conflict dynamics, how we lose ourselves in relationships, and what it really looks like to reclaim your voice, your truth, and your life. Key Takeaways Not all conflict is unhealthy, but high conflict has clear signs. Lack of empathy, inability to take responsibility, "my way or the highway" dynamics, and revisionist history are major red flags. If you're constantly questioning your reality, pay attention. What feels like chemistry can actually be trauma. That intense push-pull dynamic? The fighting followed by closeness? It's often a nervous system loop, not deep compatibility. Self-abandonment is usually rooted in childhood survival. If you learned to manage a parent's emotions growing up, you may now overgive, people-please, or edit yourself in relationships without even realizing it. A powerful lens: fear vs. desire. Every decision is either fear-based or desire-based. Fear leads to self-abandonment. Desire leads to alignment. You are not responsible for managing someone else's emotions. You can have compassion for someone's wounds without taking them on as your job to fix. Feelings are valid. Behavior is where boundaries matter. Anger is okay. Hurt is okay. But how someone behaves because of those emotions is what determines what you will or won't tolerate. "Observe, don't absorb." You can witness someone else's emotional experience without taking it into your own body or identity. Boundaries are about your behavior, not controlling theirs. It's not "make them change." It's "this is what I will or won't stay for." The fable of the rope: stop doing someone else's work. When you're holding the rope for someone who refuses to pull themselves up, you're abandoning yourself… and keeping them stuck. You are not responsible for other people's stories about you. Let them misunderstand you. Let them share their version. The people who truly know you won't be swayed. Relationships aren't meant to make you happy. They're meant to grow you. The right relationship will challenge you, expand you, and invite you into deeper emotional maturity. Green flags matter just as much as red ones. Look for communication, trust, respect, and the ability to be honest without fear. If there's one thing I hope you take from this conversation, it's this: You are allowed to choose yourself. Not in a way that disconnects you from love, but in a way that deepens it. Real love doesn't require you to shrink, edit, or abandon who you are. It invites you to become more fully yourself. And that takes courage. It takes the kind of courage Karen talked about: Looking in the mirror, taking responsibility for your own healing, and choosing growth over comfort. Because at the end of the day, the bravest thing you can do is come home to yourself. Meet Karen Karen McMahon is a High Conflict Divorce Strategist, Certified Divorce Coach and Founder of Journey Beyond Divorce. She began divorce coaching in 2010 after recognizing that the pain of her divorce led her on a transformational journey into a powerful and unexpected new life. Karen leads a national team of divorce coaches in supporting men and women around the world to become calm, clear and confident as they navigate divorce. Karen is also the host of the acclaimed Journey Beyond Divorce Podcast, and co-author of 'Stepping out of Chaos: Turning Pain to Possibility". Connect with Karen Journey Beyond Divorce WebsiteFree Rapid Relief CallBoundary BootcampJBD PodcastKaren's Instagram Click here for more ways to listen to this episode.

On today's episode of the Play It Brave podcast, I'm talking about something many people in the wedding industry are quietly feeling but not always naming out loud. Photographers who used to book 15–20 weddings a year are sitting at just a handful. Retreats are being canceled. Educators who used to sell out instantly are extending deadlines. And behind the scenes, my DMs are filled with the same question: "Is it just me?" So today we're talking about it honestly. I invited my friend Alicia Daw — an experienced luxury wedding photographer who has spent decades in this industry — to join me for a grounded conversation about what's actually happening and how we can respond to it thoughtfully instead of panicking. I don't believe this is just a slow year. I think the industry is going through a correction — post-COVID demand leveling out, economic uncertainty, new buyer behavior, and major technological shifts like AI. The industry isn't ending, but it is changing. And the more clearly we see those changes, the better we can adapt. Key Takeaways This is likely a market correction, not just a slow season. Post-COVID demand, economic uncertainty, and industry saturation are all contributing to the shift. Buyer behavior has changed. Couples compare far more options, hesitate longer, and often communicate less clearly than past clients. Trust matters more than ever. Showing full galleries, simplifying pricing, and clearly communicating your process helps reduce buyer uncertainty. Generic brands struggle in a comparison-heavy market. Clear positioning and personality help you stand out among hundreds of similar photographers. The middle market feels the most pressure. Budget vendors will book, luxury vendors will continue booking, but the mid-range is often the most saturated. Pricing can be both aspirational and strategic. Holding premium dates for high-end bookings while remaining flexible with short-notice opportunities can create stability. Relationships still convert best. Planner relationships, venue partnerships, and referrals often outperform social media algorithms. Multiple revenue streams reduce stress. Diversifying income can provide stability when inquiries fluctuate. After more than 20 years in this industry, Alicia and I have both learned that the wedding world moves in cycles. The key isn't ignoring change, it's responding to it. That means strengthening your positioning, building trust with your clients, nurturing real relationships in the industry, and being willing to adjust your strategy as the market evolves. Challenges like this don't mean the industry is over. They simply mean we're being invited to grow, refine, and approach our businesses with more intention than ever. If you want deeper support in navigating this shift, Alicia shares about her Strategy Retreat in this episode, where she helps wedding professionals align their business strategy with the life they actually want to build. And as always, thank you for being here and for continuing to play it brave in your work and your business. Meet Alicia Alicia Daw is an international, luxury wedding photographer who has spent nearly three decades of her life globetrotting to 45 countries - and counting - while developing an effortless style for capturing exquisite and emotionally charged weddings and events. Featured in prestigious publications like Grace Ormonde, Style Me Pretty, Wezoree, Carats & Cake, and Wedding Chicks, Alicia knows how to attract chic, jet-setting couples and deliver a luxury experience again and again. Within 13 months of starting her photography business, Alicia went from making $10,000 a year as a missionary to over $100,000, consistently booking 5 figure weddings. Less weddings = more money = more life. She is an expert at helping other wedding and portrait industry professionals grow their businesses into something they're proud of by making sense of all the nitty-gritty details so they can pursue life outside of business. She is passionate about finding joy and adventure in the everyday, ordinary moments in her life with the people she loves most. Connect with Alicia Alicia's WebsiteAlicia's InstagramThe Strategy Retreat Click here for more ways to listen to this episode.

There are episodes that feel like a permission slip… and this one is exactly that. If you've ever thought, "I'm a wedding photographer," or "I'm a family photographer," or you've let a label quietly box you in—this conversation is for you. I'm bringing back my dear friend Elizabeth Messina to the podcast, and every time she's here, I'm reminded why her work has moved people for decades: she doesn't just take photos—she sees women. We talk about what it actually looks like to evolve across genres without losing your signature. How to stay curious even after years in the industry. And why the real "secret" behind her iconic imagery isn't a preset or a pose—it's connection, presence, and trust. Key Takeaways Trust your voice—your point of view matters, even when other styles inspire you. Stay curious forever; learning keeps your work (and you) alive. Sensitivity and empathy aren't "too much"—they're a creative advantage behind the camera. Your brand can be cohesive across genres when your eye is the through-line. Photograph women through seasons of life, not rigid categories like "weddings" or "maternity." Maternity work is powerful because it holds joy, vulnerability, and identity change at once. There are infinite ways to photograph pregnancy—go beyond the standard belly pose. Build trust through connection first; the image comes second. Offer possibility with "What if…?" instead of forcing a concept onto a client. Make the process the win—real connection matters even when you don't get the booking. Know your gear and workflow so the "technical math" doesn't interrupt your creativity. Stay engaged with your own work (even if you outsource) so you keep evolving as an artist. Trust is built in your communication long before the shoot—read what they asked and respond like a human. A sustainable career often comes from evolving alongside your clients over time. This episode is a love letter to the idea that you don't have to be "one thing" to be taken seriously. You can evolve. You can explore. You can shoot weddings and maternity and dark moody work and sun-drenched dreamy work—and still be unmistakably you. Elizabeth's work is proof that your artistry gets stronger the more you stay connected: to your camera, to your subjects, and to your own creative truth. And if you're feeling that tug to expand what you shoot—take this as your sign: you're allowed to grow. Meet Elizabeth Elizabeth Messina is a world renowned, award winning, celebrity photographer. She is a New York Times best selling author & a passionate teacher.. Elizabeth was named "one of the most influential photographers of our decade" by PDN. Elizabeth has been capturing evocative photographs of women since she picked up a camera at the tender age of 12. Her images are a reflection of her heart. Elizabeth Messina is a visionary, her images tell stories of longing, solitude & the tangible beauty of the human experience. Although Elizabeth's photography takes her all over the world, her home is in Southern California, where she lives with her 3 children & 3 dogs. She continues to be a seeker of beautiful light, strong coffee & meaningful connections. Connect with Elizabeth Elizabeth's Photography WebsiteElizabeth's Arte of Maternity courseThe Arte DeptThe Art Society Click here for more ways to listen to this episode.

This week on the Play It Brave podcast, I'm doing something a little different — I'm bringing you behind the scenes for a real coaching session with one of my favorite photographers (and one of my trusted second shooters), Jasmine Ortiz. This episode is for every photographer who has ever thought: "I know my work is good… so why do I get weird and wobbly the second it's time to talk about pricing?" Because that moment — where you're ready to raise your rates, step into a higher tier of client, and be paid like the artist you actually are — requires more than updating a number on a proposal. It requires an identity shift. In this conversation, Jasmine shares what's been happening as she raises her prices: how her old sales call script worked at a lower price point, but suddenly feels stiff, robotic, and way too logistics-heavy for the clients she wants to book now. And from there, I walk her through the exact framework I teach inside my one-to-one coaching and masterminds — the same structure that's helped photographers go from booking $3–6K weddings to booking $8K, $10K, $20K, even $30K. Because at the luxury and intro-luxury level, clients aren't choosing you because you're "easygoing" and "go with the flow." They're choosing you because you feel like a leader. A director. An artist with presence, taste, and a clear process. And the best part? You can learn that. You can practice that. You can embody that. In this episode, we talk about: Why so many photographers unintentionally dilute their authority by trying to be the couple's "bestie" How luxury clients want warmth, yes — but they also want clarity, confidence, and precision The difference between "participating" in the call vs. leading the call How to ask better questions than "So what's your vision?" Why selling at a higher level means selling an experience and a feeling, not hours and deliverables How to keep the first call exciting (and not turn it into a timeline-planning meeting) What to say instead of "We can totally do whatever you want" (because… no. Not if you're positioning luxury) The 7 shifts I gave Jasmine (you can steal these too): Before we recorded, Jasmine sent me a transcript of a real sales call — and once I read it, I found seven immediate tweaks that would completely change her conversions at a higher price point. Here they are: Stop being overly casual. Warm is good. Too familiar is not. Luxury requires a calm, grounded presence. Don't let the couple dictate the call. They don't want to run the show — they want to hire someone who can. Step into the identity of the director. You're not auditioning to be chosen. You're guiding them through a curated experience. Remove all "wishy-washy" language. "Whatever you want!" is not elegance. Recommendations are. Mirror their exact words back to them. This is huge. If you don't repeat their emotional buying criteria, they won't feel seen. Hold the space as an expert guide. Don't match chaos. Don't match overwhelm. You hold the calm. Stay professional while still being warm. Approachable, yes. Chatty friend energy, no. If you're in the season of raising your rates, hear me when I say: you don't just raise your prices — you raise your presence. You shift your language. You shift your leadership. You shift your identity. Because luxury clients aren't buying your packages. They're buying you.

In today's episode, I'm talking with my friend Dawn Weisberg of Tularosa Flowers about what it actually takes to create and book large-scale luxury weddings — not just from a "pretty" standpoint, but from a strategic, energetic, and logistical one. Dawn and I both came to the wedding industry later in life with long creative careers behind us — mine in directing and acting, hers in costume design for film and television. We get into how those backgrounds shaped the way we approach weddings as world-building: cinematic, intentional, immersive, and deeply rooted in storytelling. We talk about: How Dawn went from starting florals at 45 to designing six-figure weddings in under a decade Why she treats every wedding like a film set: thinking in scenes, movement, and guest experience The behind-the-scenes systems and logistics that make large-scale productions possible How her viral "Malibu Barbie meets Marie Antoinette" pink wedding came to life — and what made it blow up online The creative process of pulling inspiration from runway shows, architecture, art, travel, and above all, the couple themselves Why color is having a moment in the luxury world and how to use it in a way that still feels timeless and elevated The mindset shifts required to feel safe holding and delivering on big budgets The role publications & Pinterest have played in her growth (and how she handles rejection like a pro) How styled shoots and editorials catapulted both of our careers into higher price points What florists actually need from photographers on a wedding day to grow their own businesses We also explore the emotional and energetic side of this work — what it's like to be genuinely obsessed with your craft, how to avoid burnout by building a business that actually feeds you, and why weddings are still the modern-day fairy tale for both couples and creatives. P.S. I'm hosting a Tuscany Real Wedding Workshop this spring — a real wedding with a real couple and 30 real guests, photographed and designed over multiple days. You'll walk away with: A full multi-day destination wedding story (engagement, welcome party, bridal editorial, wedding day, farewell event) A pre-trip mentorship to refine your brand, portfolio gaps, and shot list A post-trip call where we turn your gallery into a 90-day luxury marketing plan If your gut is saying "this is my next level," send me a DM and I'll send you the full proposal. We have very limited spots. Meet Dawn Dawn Weisberg is the owner and flower mastermind behind Tularosa Flowers, a luxury wedding design company in Southern California in the San Diego area. Voted Best Florist San Diego by California Wedding Magazine for both 2025 and 2024, she is dedicated to providing the highest level of design and service to her clients. Dawn's breadth of expertise enables her to offer a visionary edge to her work with a unique perspective in the wedding industry. With a Master's Degree in Theatrical Design from New York University's acclaimed Tisch School of the Arts, her classical training was augmented studying fine art in Italy, where she apprenticed in a Costume and Mask Studio in Venice. After a successful career for 20 years in film and television as a costume designer, Tularosa Flowers's owner chose to pursue her passion for flowers. Dawn combines her cinematic design background with her love of nature to create one-of-a-kind immersive experiences for her clients. The Tularosa style is an effortless maximalism combining Old World European style with California vibrance. Tularosa Flowers has been featured in all of the top wedding publications, including Vogue, Martha Stewart Weddings, Style Me Pretty, Once Wed, The Knot, Brides, Ruffled, Green Wedding Shoes, California Wedding Day, Inspired by This, 100 Layer Cake, June Bug, Wedding Chicks, Hey Wedding Lady, Smashing the Glass, and the Gay Wedding Guide. Tularosa has also partnered with luxury brands including Hermes, and David Austin Wedding Roses. As one of the nation's top and premier floral designers, Dawn has appeared as a wedding trend expert on CBS and FOX, as well as multiple wedding industry podcasts, and was the Mayesh 2024 Wedding Florist Design Star. Connect with Dawn tularosaflowers.comDawn's InstagramDawn's TikTok Click here for more ways to listen to this episode.

Today I'm sharing something different: a real coaching call with my client, Staci Addison. Instead of jumping straight into marketing, we start where sustainable growth actually begins—helping your nervous system feel safe after grief, burnout, and a long, hard season. Most creatives don't get stuck because they lack strategy; they get stuck because fear, people-pleasing, perfectionism, and old money stories keep their bodies from feeling safe enough to take action. When we rebuild safety and self-trust, the execution part finally clicks. On this call, I guide Staci to separate the "negative mind" from her true voice, create immediate safety in her body with simple somatic tools, and set loving boundaries (including with family) so her energy stops leaking and returns to her art and business. We also turn a nightly habit into a ritual of presence, upgrade the language she uses with herself, and practice micro-mothering—small daily acts that refill her capacity. Next week I'll share her full marketing plan, but this episode is the foundation that makes strategy work. Takeaways: It's not about fixing yourself; it's about building safety so action becomes possible. Name and externalize the "negative pattern," then let your heart answer back (two-column journaling, two minutes). Use simple somatics—Havening touch, a low "Voo" tone, orienting to the room, and a daily nature dose—to calm your system fast. Boundaries are love in action; they turn people-pleasing into choice and conserve energy for your business. Transform escapes into rituals of presence (music, candle, intention): I am coming home to myself. Upgrade your language: not "I'm not good enough," but "A negative pattern is saying ___; my truth is ___." Micro-mother yourself daily with one small act of care to rebuild self-trust. If this resonates and you want private support, I'm finalizing 2025 coaching pricing and bundles through November 30, 2025. Book a free Clarity Call via this link. There is a softer way back—and I'll meet you there.

If you've ever paused on your next chapter because you think you need to be "more ready" or "more perfect," this one's for you. My dear friend, multi-hyphenate creative and mentor Jessica Eileen Drogosz joins me to dismantle the myth that leaders must have it all together before they lead. From building associate teams and separating brands to launching a heart-led coaching offer, Jessica shares the real (and often messy) middle—where clarity, courage, and connection are forged. So many of you are standing on the edge of your next season—coaching, teaching, creating a course, or simply showing up more boldly online. If perfectionism has been your speed bump, consider this your green light. Progress—not flawlessness—is what builds mastery, self-trust, and momentum. In this episode, we cover: The myth of perfection and why showing your humanity actually builds more trust. Following the "whisper"—how to recognize the nudge that it's time for your next thing. Making space for multipassionate work: running successful photo brands and stepping into mentorship. Leadership in real life: humility, owning mistakes, and building systems with your team. Identity first, strategy second: creating from the future you (website, offers, and voice) before you "feel ready." Micro-leaps & progress tracking: simple daily practices that compound into big outcomes. Social media resistance: sharing vulnerably in a new container without overthinking it. Coaching with depth: why inner story work belongs before scaling strategies. You don't need a perfect plan to lead—you need your imperfect, present self and one brave step. If you're ready to move from dreaming to doing, go follow Jessica and book a clarity call. And if you want coaching around identity, mindset, and strategy for your next season, my door's open too. Let's build the future you—starting today. Meet Jessica Jessica Eileen Drogosz is a multi-hyphenate creative with over 14 years of experience turning vision into reality through artistry, strategy, and soul. As the founder of For Just a Moment Weddings and Our Days Photo and Film, she has traveled the world documenting love, legacy, and human connection—blending refined editorial style with honest, documentary storytelling. Beyond photography her work has always been about more: helping others step fully into their story, create with truth, and embrace the beauty of becoming. Through her Undone & Becoming coaching, Jessica supports women and creative entrepreneurs in moving from uncertainty to clarity, from dreaming to doing. She offers strategic guidance, grounded mentorship, and bold encouragement to help others take their next leap—with heart, purpose, and integrity. Connect with Jessica Jessica's InstagramJessica's Substackwww.jessicaeileen.com www.ourdaysphotoandfilm.com www.forjustamoment.com

Have you ever built something that looked incredible from the outside…but didn't actually feel good to live in? I've been there, and so have today's guests, Brad & Jen. Brad & Jen are a husband-and-wife photography duo with over a decade of experience behind the camera and in business. When I first came across their words on Instagram, I was struck by how different their perspective was from the usual "grow faster, do more" business advice. Their work and their message are both rooted in something deeper: artistry with intention. In this conversation, we dive into what it really takes to create a sustainable business—one that doesn't just fill your calendar or pad your Instagram feed, but one that supports your life. We talk about the identity shifts that come with growth, the way hustle can be both healthy and destructive, and the pivotal moments (including their famous "yellow chair moment") that forced them to make big changes in how they ran their business. Some of the things we explore together: Why success often comes at the cost of friendships, health, or community—and how to course correct. The difference between "busy hustle" and "focused hustle," and how to find your rhythm without burning out. How pricing plays a huge role in creating space for rest, freedom, and sustainability. The seasonal cycles every business goes through, and how to recognize what season you're in. The mindset shifts that allow you to show up as both an artist and a CEO—without sacrificing either. What it looks like to redefine success around presence, community, and intention instead of numbers and accolades. This is a heartfelt, real conversation about business, creativity, and life. If you've ever felt stuck between striving for more and craving something sustainable, you'll find so much encouragement here. I hope you walk away from this episode remembering: your business is meant to serve you, not the other way around. Meet Brad & Jen: Brad & Jen are a husband-and-wife photography team and creative business coaches who believe your business should make room for the life you actually want. Known for their heartfelt and genuine imagery and deeply strategic minds, they've spent over a decade capturing love stories - everywhere from backyard weddings to vineyards and destination celebrations around the world. Along the way, they built a business that values people over pressure, connection over comparison, and art over algorithms. Now, they teach other photographers how to do the same through practical education, mindset shifts, and a belief that your work can be both meaningful and profitable. Whether they're behind the camera or mentoring creatives, Brad & Jen are all in on helping people do work they're proud of, without losing themselves in the process. Connect with Brad & Jen: Photography: @bradandjen Education: @bradandjeneducation Learn more about their mastermind at learn.bradandjen.com

In this episode, I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with the incredible Marion Roach Smith—author, memoir coach, and one of the most no-nonsense, truth-telling voices in the writing world. We talked all about memoir writing—what it is, what it isn't, and why it's one of the most powerful tools for making sense of your life and sharing your story with the world. Marion shares how her background in journalism shaped her writing process, and how she developed what she calls the "memoir algorithm"—a simple but profound method to help you find the universal themes in your personal experiences. We also got into the role AI is starting to play in the writing world, what it actually takes to get published, and why she believes everyone has stories worth telling. If you've ever wanted to write a book—or simply learn how to express yourself more clearly and courageously—this conversation will light a fire under you. In This Episode, We Talk About: Why writing with intent is everything How memoir is different from autobiography—and why it matters The "memoir algorithm" Marion uses to help writers craft strong, universal stories Why you don't need to wait for closure to write Her take on AI's role in the writing process Tips for getting published in today's landscape The radical act of sharing your humanity on the page Ready to write your story? Marion's work has helped thousands of people turn their lived experiences into powerful, published work—and after this conversation, I know you'll be inspired to do the same. Meet Marion ​​Marion Roach Smith is the author of four books, including The Memoir Project, A Thoroughly Non-Standardized Text for Writing & Life (Grand Central Publishing). A former staffer at The New York Times, she has been a commentator on NPR's All Things Considered and a talk show host on Sirius Satellite Radio. She currently runs a writing lab called The Memoir Project and teaches memoir worldwide at marionroach.com. Click here for more ways to listen to this episode.

This week, the brilliant Dr. Chelsea Shields and I continue the conversation about something that's at the heart of every powerful brand and every transformational leader: authenticity. We go deep into what it means to show up fully as yourself in your brand, your business, and your life. From emotional intelligence to the way you use your voice and body to communicate, this conversation is a masterclass in being seen and felt as the real you. Chelsea and I talk about how hard it can be—especially for women—to strike the balance between being authentic and being perceived as credible. We break down the subtle cues that create trust (or mistrust), like body language, tone of voice, and what Chelsea calls "safety signals." We also explore the role of vulnerability in leadership, and why being polished and perfect often isn't what people actually connect with. If you've ever felt like you need to be a certain version of yourself to be "taken seriously" or you've struggled to feel truly seen in your business, this episode is for you. We wrap things up with actionable tools you can use right now to show up more authentically, communicate with impact, and build a brand that doesn't just look good—it feels right. In this episode, we talk about: Why authenticity isn't about being the same in every room The unique pressure women face to perform "authenticity" How to use your voice and body to communicate clearly and powerfully Why emotional intelligence is non-negotiable for leadership What it really means to create safety and trust How honesty and consistency build a brand people believe in The difference between an authentic brand and an inauthentic one (hint: people feel it) Connect with Dr. Chelsea Shields https://www.brandthropologieagency.com

Ever wondered what it really takes to become a second shooter that lead photographers rave about—or how to find one you can trust with your name, brand, and reputation? In this candid and wisdom-packed episode, I sit down with award-winning photographer and my own second shooter, Jasmine Ortiz, to dive deep into the art, etiquette, and energy of second shooting in the luxury wedding world. With over 200 weddings under her belt, Jasmine brings a decade's worth of insight into what it means to support lead photographers with professionalism, humility, and heart. From high-pressure moments and awkward vendor run-ins to gear checklists and social media boundaries, we don't hold back in this conversation. We swap stories, laugh through horror moments (please don't pitch yourself to the planner during cocktail hour), and unpack the subtle dynamics that can make or break a working relationship on the wedding day. Whether you're a new photographer hoping to break into the wedding industry, a seasoned second looking to elevate your presence, or a lead ready to build your dream team, this episode is full of real talk and practical gold. In this episode, you'll learn: What NOT to do as a second shooter (like drinking on the job) How to match a lead's style and energy so you complement—not compete Why gear prep, clear communication, and a calm presence matter more than you think How to navigate photographing grooms and groomsmen as a female second shooter What to avoid when posting online—and why it's essential to wait and ask for permission first How to energetically show up in service, not self-promotion Why building trust, humility, and team spirit will get you hired again and again Jasmine also shares her favorite behind-the-scenes moment as a second shooter, how she handles fast-moving situations with grace, and why her second shooter checklist has become her wedding-day go-to. And of course, Jasmine and I reflect on our own working relationship—from Target snack runs to shared values—and how much fun it can be when the lead/second synergy is just right. This is more than just a how-to episode. It's a heartfelt look into the power of being a solid, grounded, and generous support on a couple's most important day. Meet Jasmine Jasmine Ortiz is an internationally-renowned wedding photographer based in California. She made a name for herself masterfully documenting irreplaceable moments and polished celebrations. She was named one of the "Top 30 Wedding Photographers in the USA" in 2023 and has photographed well over 200 weddings in her decade-long career. → Get Jasmine's Second Shooter Checklist hereJasmine's WebsiteJasmine's Instagram P.S. Want me to edit your images with the new DB Signature Presets & Editing Suite? Send me up to 5 RAW photos here.