This episode of Courageous Destiny: Build a Business & Life You Love presents a rich and illuminating conversation between Kristin Crockett and Krista Brea, diving into the multifaceted journey of self-publishing. Together, they peel back the layers of what it truly takes to bring a book into the world—not just as a creative endeavor, but as a bold pathway toward freedom, income, and impact.

Krista, a ten-time author, shares her unique insights into the self-publishing process, emphasizing that while the idea of writing a book can feel overwhelming, it doesn’t have to stop you. She stresses the value of a structured, courageous approach: using ghostwriters to support your voice, leveraging AI to create outlines, and breaking down the writing journey into actionable steps that anyone can follow.

Throughout the conversation, Krista highlights the importance of market research—checking tools like Google and Amazon to ensure that book topics align with real reader demand. This strategic lens transforms writing from a daunting dream into an achievable, profitable venture. With smart planning, appealing book covers, targeted keywords, and the power of reviews, Krista reveals how authors can generate visibility and create streams of passive income through platforms like Amazon.

At its heart, the dialogue echoes a Courageous Destiny principle: overcoming fear with clarity, structure, and action. Listeners walk away not only with strategies to self-publish but also with the empowered mindset to push past the inner voice that says, “I can’t.”

• Plan with courage: Understand market demand before committing to a project.
• Leverage support: Use ghostwriters and AI to streamline the writing process without losing your unique voice.
• Break it down: Tackle book writing in manageable steps to reduce overwhelm.
• Market smart: Optimize keywords, covers, and reviews to stand out on Amazon.
• Create freedom: Passive income from self-publishing is real with the right structure and strategy.
• Move through fear: Courageously face the overwhelm of writing and transform it into confidence.

Krista Brea is a vibrant, self-published author who began her journey in 2022 after becoming a mother, seeking a way to create passive income while embracing the joy of family life. What began as a bold experiment quickly turned into a thriving stream of royalties and a proven, repeatable process.

With ten books under her belt in just a few short years, Krista now teaches her strategies through her self-publishing course, showing others how to turn their ideas into income. Her energy is contagious, her approach is practical, and her story embodies what it means to step courageously into new possibilities.

Krista reminds us all that self-publishing isn’t just about books—it’s about creating a destiny by design, where your words, wisdom, and willingness to take bold action can change your life and the lives of countless readers.

Krista's community on Skool for emerging author's turning pages to paychecks:

We invite you to join Krista Brea’s Skool community (https://www.skool.com/kdp-publishing/about)— the ultimate space for aspiring and experienced self-publishers who want to turn their ideas into published books and create real passive income. Inside, members connect with like-minded creators, share wins, and get expert insights from Krista, a seasoned author and publishing mentor with over 15 years of digital marketing experience.

New members get...

In this heartfelt and joy-filled episode of Courageous Destiny: Build a Business & Life You Love, I sit down with the incredible Ronnis Oher, president of Life Maps, to explore the beauty of preserving our stories in the most creative and meaningful way.

Ronnis shares how her journey—from teacher to corporate leader to courageous entrepreneur—led her to create Life Maps, a service that transforms cherished memories into visually stunning works of art. These maps don’t just tell a story; they connect generations, strengthen families, and celebrate individuality in a way that’s unforgettable.

Together, we laugh, reflect, and celebrate the power of memories—how capturing them through Life Maps can become the most thoughtful gift, whether for a milestone, a loved one, or even honoring a business journey. This episode is a reminder that your life, your story, and your courageous journey are worth celebrating… beautifully, boldly, and forever.

Tune in and discover how you can honor your story and the stories of those you love with Life Maps.

🔗 Explore more at lifemaps.com

About Ronnis Oher:

Ronnis is an artist and the creator and owner of LifeMaps – The Story of a Lifetime, creating custom, hand-drawn maps that illustrate the life stories of individuals, couples and companies.

She has a BA in elementary education, was an elementary school teacher in Palatine, taught Transcendental Meditation, worked as a corporate trainer for the Federal Government and BMO Harris Bank (facilitating programs in Customer Service, Supervisory/Management training, Effective Meeting Management, Change Management, teambuilding) and had her own performance management consulting company, consulting on projects and/or doing training for such companies as: BMO Harris Bank, Navistar, Market Day, and Hewitt Associates.

She has given presentations for many organizations: The Buffalo Grove Lincolnshire Chamber, the Des Plaines Chamber, the Vernon Area Library, the Business Referral Networking group of the BGLCC and many presentations for SCORE at various locations

In this powerful episode, host Kristin Crockett welcomes Jamie Roth, intuitive healer and founder of Intuitive Encounters. Together, they explore the role of intuition in personal growth, empowerment, and transformation. Jamie shares her belief that every woman possesses innate intuitive gifts—clairvoyance, clairaudience, clairsentience, and Clair cognizance—that are often suppressed by societal conditioning. Through open dialogue, Kristin and Jamie highlight how embracing these gifts can lead to greater confidence, clarity, and alignment.

The episode also introduces Jamie’s upcoming Freedom Era Summit, a virtual gathering designed to support women navigating identity shifts and life transitions. With diverse speakers and healing practices, the summit provides a safe space to explore authenticity, empowerment, and connection.

1. Intuition is innate – Every woman holds intuitive abilities, but they must be nurtured to flourish.
2. Community heals – Shared experiences, such as somatic movement, foster deep connection and belonging.
3. Breaking free from conditioning – Recognizing and releasing societal constraints opens the door to authentic living.
4. The Four Clairs – Understanding clairvoyance, clairaudience, clairsentience, and Clair cognizance can deepen self-awareness and trust in inner guidance.
5. Empowerment through practice – Regularly engaging with intuition strengthens decision-making and builds courage for life transitions.

The Freedom Era Summit is a transformative virtual gathering created to empower women as they navigate life’s transitions and redefine their identities. Through inspiring speakers, healing modalities, and community connection, the summit encourages women to shed old limitations, embrace their intuitive power, and step boldly into authenticity. This collaborative event is a celebration of growth, healing, and the freedom to create a life aligned with one’s true self.

About Jamie:

Jamie Roth is intuitive healer, guide, and transformational mentor with over 23 years of experience supporting women on their journeys of emotional healing, identity reclamation, and spiritual awakening. As the founder of Intuitive Encounters, she creates powerful spaces—both locally and virtually—for people to reconnect with their inner truth, body wisdom, and authentic expression.

Jamie is the author of The General Manager of Your Universe, a transformative empowerment book, and has hosted her own international radio show, and Mind-Body-Spirit expos. She continues to create tools that inspire self-discovery —most recently, a diverse and inclusive oracle deck designed to reflect holistic tools for mind-Body-spirit wellness.

Find her at www.IntuitiveEncounters.com

I am so excited to welcome my dear friend Caryl Derenfeld, the heart and soul behind Joy Filled Souls, to this powerful conversation all about choosing JOY on purpose. Caryl has this incredible gift for helping people reconnect with laughter, presence, and the kind of self-care that truly shifts your spirit. Through her practice of Laughter Yoga and other creative tools, she shows us how joy isn’t something we stumble upon—it’s something we can actually create and live into every single day.

In our conversation, we dive into the inspiration behind Caryl’s work, and we share stories (and a few laughs!) about what happens when you give yourself permission to let go of stress and lean into joy. We also talk about our upcoming retreat designed to help you maximize joy—an experience that combines laughter, mindfulness, and courageous self-care so you can feel lighter, more present, and more alive.

This episode is your reminder that joy is not a luxury—it’s essential. And when you choose it courageously, you don’t just change your day… you change your destiny.

Takeaways:

• The podcast emphasizes the importance of balancing stress with self-care to cultivate joy.
• Laughter Yoga, as described, combines the physical act of laughter with yogic breathing techniques.
• Participants in the retreat will engage in activities designed to elevate their joy and emotional well-being.
• The discussion highlights the transformative nature of laughter, particularly in overcoming emotional challenges.
• A central theme of the episode is the ability to respond positively to life's challenges through intentional practices.
• Listeners are encouraged to open themselves to new opportunities for fulfillment and joy in their lives.

Links referenced in this episode:

• joyfuelledsouls.com
• http://linktr.ee/courageousdestiny
• https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1478715661349?aff=oddtdtcreator

About:

Caryl Derenfeld is the Founder of Joy Fueled Souls, providing inspirational workshops and conversational programs that enhance everyday living.

She became a Laughter Yoga Leader in 2008 and a Certified Laughter Yoga Teacher in 2010, taught by Madan Kataria, the Founder of Laughter Yoga University in Mumbai, India

She lead religious services for 18 years at Brookdale Hawthorn Lakes (Senior Living) in Vernon Hills, IL

Caryl holds a Certificate in Positive Psychology from the Whole Being Institute in Lenox, MA, as well as a course completion on Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction in Chicago.

She learned meditation from The Art of Living Foundation, and continues to practice via daily meditation sessions @Ourmandalauniverses on Instagram. She leads the 30 minute session there on Thursday mornings 10am Central time.

In her free time she enjoys water aerobics, strength training, drawing, dancing, baking bread, and creating delicious meals in her kitchen for her family and others.

This podcast episode delves into the profound and often overlooked connection between sensuality and personal empowerment, featuring the esteemed Jennifer Bugajsky, CEO and founder of the Freedom Keys. Kristin and Jennifer engage in a compelling dialogue that challenges the societal norms surrounding femininity, emphasizing that the embrace of one's sensuality is not only natural but essential to personal growth and fulfillment.

Throughout the conversation, Jen shares her transformative journey, illustrating how overcoming shame associated with sexuality can lead to enhanced confidence and success in various aspects of life, including business. We explore the repercussions of societal conditioning that instills shame regarding women's bodies and desires, and we advocate for a reclamation of this power as a means to foster deeper connections and authentic self-expression. This episode serves as a clarion call for listeners to confront and redefine their beliefs surrounding sensuality and to recognize its integral role in building a life they truly love.

Takeaways:

• The podcast emphasizes the significance of embracing sensuality as a crucial aspect of personal power and empowerment in women's lives.
• Jen Bugasjsky shares her transformative journey of recognizing and reclaiming her own sensuality after years of suppression and shame.
• The discussion highlights the detrimental societal narratives surrounding femininity and sexuality that cultivate feelings of shame among women.
• Listeners are encouraged to explore and redefine their self-identity and intimacy, recognizing that true empowerment comes from within.

About Jennifer:

Jen Bugajsky is a keynote speaker and sexuality coach. She guides women to reclaim their sexual power to liberate themselves from the shackles of patriarchy and centuries of sexual oppression; and own the hell out of it. She empowers them to show up confident, radiant, and fully expressed in every area of life.

Through her signature work, Shameless Freedom, Jen empowers women to release shame, break free from body, religious, and sexuality taboos, and live unapologetically turned-on in business, relationships, and life.

Drawing from her own journey of healing childhood trauma, navigating divorce, and rediscovering her feminine power, Jen leads with raw honesty, deep compassion, and unshakable courage. Her work blends leadership, sensual embodiment, and mindset coaching, guiding women to reconnect with their bodies, own their desires, and step boldly into the lives they crave.

At her core, Jen believes: Your sensuality isn’t something to hide, it’s your birthright, your power, and your pathway to liberation. Owning your sexuality is the key to freedom.

If you're craving a deeper connection to yourself and your desires, download your free guide:

“100 Ways to Tune Up Your Turn On”

https://go.thefreedomkeys.com/how-to-tune-up-your-turn-on-page

go.thefreedomkeys.com

This podcast episode focuses on the transformative journey of Dr. Kayla Willoughby, a chiropractor specializing in perinatal care and animal chiropractic. Throughout our discussion, Dr. Willoughby shares her experiences of navigating the complexities of establishing her practice while pursuing her courageous destiny. We delve into the challenges faced by new chiropractors, particularly in transitioning from education to professional practice, and the importance of cultivating a supportive environment that encourages growth and collaboration. The conversation further highlights the necessity of leveraging coaching and mentorship to enhance business acumen in the chiropractic field. Ultimately, we emphasize the significance of aligning one's professional aspirations with personal values to foster a fulfilling career in healthcare.

About Dr. Kayla Willoughby: Chiropractor for Women & Holistic Health Advocate; Animal Chiropractor

Dr. Kayla is a heart-centered chiropractor who specializes in women’s health, prenatal care, animal chiropractic and natural wellness for the whole family—especially the crunchy mamas out there doing things their own way. With a gentle, holistic approach, she helps people reconnect with their bodies, reduce stress, and feel more aligned throughout every stage of life.

From fertility and pregnancy to postpartum and beyond, Dr. Kayla supports chiropractic care that honors the body’s innate wisdom. She’s certified in the Gonstead Technique of chiropractic care and passionate about helping mamas thrive—not just survive.

She believes healing is more than symptom relief—it’s nervous system regulation, emotional grounding, and trusting your inner guidance. Whether it’s adjusting a newborn, guiding a first-time mom, or helping a woman ditch chronic pain and reclaim her energy, Dr. Kayla brings warmth, education, and empowerment to every conversation.

Takeaways:

• The podcast emphasizes the importance of living your courageous destiny, which entails pursuing your passions in both business and life.
• Kayla Willoughby discusses her transformative journey as a chiropractor and the challenges she faced while adapting to new circumstances.
• The significance of having a supportive coach is highlighted, as it can lead to substantial personal and professional growth in one's career.
• Listeners are encouraged to embrace collaboration over competition, especially in the healthcare field, to foster a healthier work environment.

The episode delves into the formation of Grateful Connections, a community initiative led by Melinda Leonard, aimed at empowering women in their entrepreneurial pursuits. Melinda reflects on her journey from a corporate environment that often felt isolating to creating a vibrant community that fosters genuine connections among women. The discussion provides insight into her motivations, stemming from a desire to cultivate an inclusive space where women can thrive together, share resources, and support each other’s business endeavors.

At the core of this initiative is the belief that traditional networking often lacks depth, and Melinda seeks to address this by encouraging meaningful interactions that extend beyond mere professional exchanges. She articulates her vision for Grateful Connections, which includes not only local gatherings but also the potential for virtual expansions that can reach women across various geographical locations. The episode emphasizes the significance of educational workshops and collaborative events, reinforcing the notion that mutual support can propel women towards achieving their goals.

Moreover, the conversation touches upon the emotional aspects of entrepreneurship and the importance of community in mitigating feelings of loneliness and isolation. Melinda candidly shares her personal experiences, illustrating how cultivating gratitude can enhance one’s business journey and overall satisfaction. The episode serves as both an invitation and an encouragement for women to join Grateful Connections, highlighting the invaluable support that such a community can provide, ultimately aiming to empower women to transform their aspirations into tangible successes.

Takeaways:

• In this episode, we delve into the significance of cultivating meaningful connections among women in business.
• Melinda Leonard discusses her journey of establishing Grateful Connections to foster community support.
• The conversation highlights the importance of embracing gratitude as a transformative tool in professional and personal development.
• Listeners are encouraged to pursue entrepreneurship with passion, emphasizing the necessity of supportive networks.
• The episode illustrates how intentional networking can lead to genuine relationships that enhance business growth and satisfaction.
• Grateful Connections aims to expand beyond local boundaries, aspiring to create a national and international network for women entrepreneurs.

About Malinda and Grateful Connections:

Grateful Connections is a professional development community for women who are ready to grow in their work, in their confidence, and in their relationships with other women who get it.

This isn’t about handing out business cards or showing up just to be seen. It’s about building something together. Whether you work for yourself or within another organization, whether you’re just starting out or have been doing your thing for years — if you’re looking to grow with purpose and connection, this is your space.

FOUNDER

Hi, I’m Malinda — founder of Grateful Connections, lifelong connector, and professional cheerleader for women in business and beyond.

After 25 years in corporate sales, I started my own entrepreneurial journey — and I quickly saw how many women are building incredible things without the support, confidence, or business knowledge they truly deserve.

What I kept hearing — and personally experiencing — was that so many women felt stuck or unsure, not because they lacked talent or heart, but because they were trying to do it all alone.

I created Grateful Connections to change that.

This community is built on the belief that growth happens through gratitude, guidance, and genuine relationships. It’s where you’ll find honest conversations, helpful connections,...

This episode presents an insightful dialogue between Kristin Crockett and Sharon Jedd, two distinguished life/business coaches, who explore the intricacies and transformative potential of coaching. Sharon recounts her personal journey, which was marked by a significant transition from a successful career in direct sales to the world of coaching. She reflects on her decade of feeling lost and the pivotal role that mentorship played in her discovery of self-worth and the importance of a positive mindset. This foundational narrative sets the stage for a broader discussion on the critical aspects of coaching, including the necessity of self-love and the recognition of one's own value.

As the conversation unfolds, Kristin and Sharon delve into the essential elements to consider when seeking a coach, emphasizing the significance of aligning values and establishing trust in the coaching relationship. They elucidate that coaching transcends the mere provision of answers; it is a collaborative process that empowers clients to uncover their own strengths and overcome personal limitations. The speakers advocate for a coaching approach that nurtures self-discovery and encourages individuals to challenge negative self-perceptions. This emphasis on fostering a supportive environment underlines the transformative potential that effective coaching can yield.

In the latter part of the episode, both speakers underscore the virtue of integrity within the coaching profession. They articulate that true coaching involves guiding clients with honesty and authenticity, ensuring that the relationship is built on mutual respect and understanding. The episode concludes with a powerful reminder for listeners to invest in themselves and to embrace the journey of self-improvement with an open heart, as they embark on the path toward realizing their aspirations and potential.

Takeaways:

• The podcast emphasizes the profound impact of coaching on individual transformation and overall life satisfaction.
• Listeners are encouraged to explore the concept of self-love as a foundational element in personal growth and coaching.
• The importance of hiring a coach who aligns with one's values and beliefs is highlighted throughout the discussion.
• The speakers share their experiences of overcoming challenges through coaching and the necessity of rewiring one's mindset for success.
• Integrity is portrayed as a critical virtue in coaching relationships, affecting both coaches and clients alike.
• The conversation concludes with a call to action for listeners to invest in themselves, recognizing their inherent worth and potential.

About Sharon Jedd:

Sharon Jedd - Empowering Belief Coaching (Clarity, Confidence & Courage)

Sharon “Amazing Grace” Jedd is a dynamic transformational coach whose remarkable journey from adversity to achievement continues to inspire individuals and leaders worldwide. Once feeling lost and uncertain, Sharon made the bold decision to step beyond her comfort zone, embracing change with courage and turning personal pain into a powerful purpose.

Her story is more than a comeback—it’s a masterclass in resilience, strategy, and reinvention. Through unwavering dedication, sharp business insight, and a deep commitment to mindset mastery, Sharon has built a life and career rooted in impact and empowerment.

Today, she is a highly sought-after coach, speaker, and mentor, known for helping others break through self-limiting beliefs and unlock their full potential. Sharon’s transformational approach equips individuals and teams with the tools to elevate performance, lead with purpose, and thrive through change.

Her journey is living proof that greatness isn't defined by where you start—it's shaped by the courage to grow, the discipline to rise,...