In this episode of Coffey Talk, host Kate Coffey-Bacon sits down with Melissa Maikos, teacher, fitness instructor, and former sports broadcaster, to talk about the real side of wellness. Together, they explore how movement builds confidence, how community keeps us grounded, and why it’s time to normalize conversations about perimenopause and aging.

Melissa shares how her athletic background shaped her approach to fitness, body image, and mental health, and how she’s using social media to build a positive space for women navigating midlife. This honest conversation reminds us that wellness isn’t about perfection, it’s about progress and learning to embrace the body you’re in.

Key Takeaways:
• Podcasting is a powerful way to share purpose and build community
• Wellness means caring for both your body and your mindset
• Community support turns fitness into friendship
• Body image struggles don’t disappear, they evolve
• It’s never too late to lift heavy or live fully
• Talking about perimenopause breaks stigma and builds strength
• Social media can be a tool for real, empowering connection
• Movement fuels confidence at every stage of life

👉🏻Connect with Melissa Maikos:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissamaikos/

Instagram and TikTok @MMaikos21

Thanks for tuning in to Coffey Talk with Kate Coffey-Bacon!
Real people. Real stories. 20-minute conversations that stir something in your soul.
☕ Subscribe and join the Coffey Talk community.
💬 Follow @_CoffeyTalk on Instagram for daily inspiration and behind-the-scenes stories.
🎧 New episodes every Monday at 8 AM ET.

👉 Visit us at CoffeyTalkPodcast.com

In this episode of Coffey Talk, host Kate Coffey-Bacon sits down with voting advocate Jessica Kraisinger to discuss why every vote counts—especially in local and state elections. They explore Jessica’s journey into voter education, the impact of down-ballot races, and the importance of staying engaged beyond election day. The conversation also tackles common voting myths, highlights the power of individual action, and reminds listeners that civic participation is both a responsibility and a celebration.

Takeaways:

Voting is the most impactful action an individual can take.

Local elections significantly shape daily life.

Every vote counts—especially in close races.

Voting is essentially “hiring representatives for your community.”

Engagement begins with one conversation.

Myths about voting discourage participation; truth encourages it.

Educating yourself about candidates is key to informed choices.

Civic engagement continues year-round.

Kindness and empathy strengthen communities.

Celebrate the act of voting; it’s worth honoring.

https://www.rockthevote.org/

https://justfacts.votesmart.org/

https://www.vote.org/

https://ballotpedia.org/Main_Page

https://whenweallvote.org/

👉🏻Connect with Jessica Kraisinger on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-kraisinger-1918293/

Thanks for tuning in to Coffey Talk with Kate Coffey-Bacon!
Real people. Real stories. 20-minute conversations that stir something in your soul.
☕ Subscribe and join the Coffey Talk community.
💬 Follow @_CoffeyTalk on Instagram for daily inspiration and behind-the-scenes stories.
🎧 New episodes every Monday at 8 AM ET.

👉 Visit us at CoffeyTalkPodcast.com

In this episode of Coffey Talk, host Kate Coffey-Bacon sits down with Pam Misialek, VP of Community at Dynamic Communities, and Cam Sessinger, Senior Online Editor, to talk about the Women in Tech initiative and this year’s She Builds luncheon at Community Summit. Together they explore the power of storytelling, community, and mentorship in shaping a more inclusive future for women in technology.

Highlights:

• The Women in Tech initiative aims to create community beyond a single event.
• She Builds celebrates women who are actively shaping the future of tech.
• Visibility and storytelling empower women to step into leadership roles.
• Networking and mentorship are essential to growth and confidence.
• The vision for continuous engagement through year-round programming.

👉Connect with Pam Misialek: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pam-misialek-985b6413/

👉Connect with Cameron Sessinger: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameron-sessinger-b2916b14b/

Thanks for tuning in to Coffey Talk with Kate Coffey-Bacon!
Real people. Real stories. 20-minute conversations that stir something in your soul.
☕ Subscribe and join the Coffey Talk community.
💬 Follow @_CoffeyTalk on Instagram for daily inspiration and behind-the-scenes stories.
🎧 New episodes every Monday at 8 AM ET.

👉 Visit us at CoffeyTalkPodcast.com