In this powerful episode of Obstacles to Opportunities, hosts Jess and Heather welcome Vicki Paquette—REALTOR®, entrepreneur, and former personal trainer—whose journey is nothing short of extraordinary. From building a fitness business in her early 20s to surviving cancer, navigating chronic illness, and pivoting fearlessly into real estate, Vicki opens up about the hardships that shaped her—and the mindset that helped her rise.

She shares raw and real insights on grief, resilience, reinvention, and the drive to keep going when life throws its hardest punches. Whether you’re facing your own uphill battle or craving inspiration to take a leap of faith, this episode will remind you that adversity can be the starting line—not the end.

🎧 Listen now:

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1dbMXzFeOgmUkYjK4seSuc?fbclid=IwY2xjawKJtjRleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETEyblJGeHRReFhibFk4a3hCAR4eM_mqEoYp3qdRo7rxPYTRMVZd8YOqMptT0aaRF8qif2Sj4oeuJPUXEqdbNQ_aem_Pc7xYbw_eaNU-HTT1Y3BQQ
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/obstacles-to-opportunities/id1712714497

In this episode of the Obstacles to Opportunities podcast, host Jess Powell sits down with Carly Oxenreider, a serial entrepreneur, military spouse, mother, top real estate producer, coach, and mentor. Carly shares her incredible journey from growing up in eastern North Carolina to building a thriving career across multiple industries. She reflects on the challenges of being an active-duty military spouse, facing the financial turmoil of the Great Recession, and the personal growth that came from persevering through tough times.

Carly opens up about the obstacles she encountered in her career—from starting over in new markets every few years to navigating the collapse of the mortgage industry—and how she learned to reinvent herself, adapt, and emerge stronger. She also discusses the invaluable lessons she's learned along the way, including the importance of mentorship, asking for help, and the power of failure as a stepping stone to success.

As a passionate coach and mentor, Carly is now dedicated to guiding young entrepreneurs to overcome their own hurdles and find their path to success. Tune in for a conversation filled with inspiration, resilience, and practical advice for navigating life’s challenges.

Plus, get to know Carly’s fun side—like two friends catching up over coffee!

Kacie Hass is a proud Southwest Florida native, having spent 35 years living and building deep roots in Cape Coral. She's married to her best friend, Tanner Hass, a Fort Myers firefighter/EMT, and together they’re raising three beautiful children. The family is actively involved in their faith community at Christian Life Fellowship Church.

Kacie is the founder of Hearten Inc., a nonprofit that merged with Foster Village SWFL in June 2024. Her mission has always been clear: to celebrate the inherent worth of every child, regardless of their circumstances. With a heart for the vulnerable, she’s passionate about standing in the gap during times of hardship—offering hope, support, and joy when it’s needed most.

As the Director of Programs and Operations at Foster Village SWFL, Kacie leads with vision and heart. She implements the systems and strategies that keep the organization thriving while also serving as the team’s biggest cheerleader. Her natural gift of encouragement uplifts everyone she meets.

In the world of foster care, families often feel overwhelmed and isolated. Many foster caregivers leave within a year due to burnout and lack of support. Meanwhile, 85% of people who aren’t fostering say they care and want to help—they just don’t know how. Kacie’s work bridges that gap, creating a community where no one walks alone.

🍋 Join the Movement:

Be part of our "Growing the Village is Sweet" campaign! Host your own lemonade stand this May to raise awareness and support for local foster families. Sign up by April 15th to get your T-shirt + Lemonade Kit!

👕🍋 https://www.fostervillageswfl.org/lp/growing-the-village-is-sweet

✨ Want to make a lasting impact? Become an MVP – Monthly Village Partner and help sustain the mission all year long.

🤝 https://www.fostervillageswfl.org/ways-to-give

📣 Hosting a fundraiser, golf tournament, or community event? Consider choosing Foster Village SWFL as your beneficiary. Reach out to us—we’d love to connect!

👉🏼https://www.fostervillageswfl.org/