In this inspiring episode of The Bold Route Podcast, I sit down with Allison Guthrie — mama of three (two with special needs), founder of Sterlyng Ash, and creator of The Balanced Mama Notebook and Resource Collection — to talk about motherhood, advocacy, and learning to create balance in the middle of chaos.

Allison’s journey began in the tech world as a software engineer, but life took an unexpected turn when her daughter Aspen was diagnosed with Down syndrome. What followed was a season of transformation — one that pushed her to step away from a career she loved, build a brand from scratch, and find purpose through helping other moms in hard places.

Through Sterlyng Ash, Allison provides beginner-friendly punch-needle embroidery kits designed to bring calm, creativity, and a sense of accomplishment to busy moms. Even more special, a portion of every bulk order goes to NICU moms, offering them a therapeutic outlet during their hospital stays — a mission rooted in her own NICU experience.

Her latest mission, The Balanced Mama Notebook, is a beautifully designed guide that helps moms process big emotions after receiving a new diagnosis for their child. With reflection prompts, grounding exercises, and gentle encouragement, it helps mothers navigate fear, overwhelm, and uncertainty — reminding them that they’re not alone and that hope still exists, even in the hardest seasons.
👉 Learn more or get your copy at balancedmama.me

In this conversation, we dive into:

• How boldness can mean advocating for your children and trusting your instincts
• The story behind Sterlyng Ash and the meaning woven into its name
• Why chaos and calm can coexist — and how balance is something we create, not find
• The heart behind The Balanced Mama Workbook, designed to help moms process new diagnoses and heavy emotions with hope and grace

In the second half of the interview, we chat about:

• Tips for traveling with children with medical needs
• Life in Monument, Colorado
• Climbing Pikes Peak
• and a fun game of Road Trip Would You Rather

If you’re a mom, entrepreneur, or anyone learning to create beauty in the middle of life’s chaos, this episode will touch your heart and remind you that being bold often starts with love.

🎧 Tune in and be encouraged to take your own bold route — one intentional step at a time.

To find Allison’s punch needle kits visit sterlyngash.com

Find The Balanced Mama Workbook at balancedmama.me

Follow along on Instagram @hey.balancedmama

***If this conversation encouraged you, share it with another mama who could use a reminder that she’s not alone.

Stay connected with Bold Route:
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FB: @theboldroute

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Sign up here!

🛒 Shop our Travel Solutions:
Discover gear designed for your adventures.
theboldroute.com/shop

In Part Two of my conversation with Heather Brumley, we’re buckling up for a 7,000-mile road trip that spans 18 states, countless laughs, and more bold moments than you can count.

Heather shares her favorite stops, lessons from the road, and we play a fun game of road tripWould You Rather that you can play on your own adventures. Plus, she reveals some travel apps and gear she swears by!

✨ Mentioned in this Episode:

• 7,000 miles, 18 states, and unforgettable stories
• Heather’s favorite stops along the way
• “Would You Rather” game ideas for your next trip
• Travel tools:
  ninja cooler
  Apps👇
  Roadtrippers
  Guide Along
  Just Ahead
• How retirement can actually mean MORE adventure

🎁 Podcast Perk: Use code BOLD20 at checkout @ theboldroute.com
for 20% off our Steering Wheel Trays —perfect for road trips, travel days, or working from the car. Offer valid through September 2nd.

Stay connected with Bold Route:
Instagram: @the_boldroute
FB: @theboldroute

😀 Join our Bold Route Newsletter:
Stay inspired with bold stories, exclusive deals, and travel tips!
Sign up here!

🛒 Shop our Travel Solutions:
Discover gear designed for your adventures.
theboldroute.com/shop

In this episode of The Bold Route Podcast, I’m joined by one of my favorite people—my former teaching partner and lifelong adventurer, Heather Brumley.

In this first half of our conversation, we talk about:

• What it means to live boldly in different seasons of life
• Where Heather’s passion for travel came from
• The difference between traveling and vacationing
• Her top three favorite places so far
• A few hilarious stories from her travels
• And a whole lot of laughter, encouragement, and permission to live boldly

Heather is a natural storyteller with a heart for adventure and a ton of wisdom to share—and we laughed a lot in this one.

🎧 This is Part 1 of 2—make sure to follow or subscribe so you don’t miss Part 2, where we dive into her unforgettable 7,000+ mile road trip.

😄 Other things Mentioned in This Episode (Part One):

• A grammar teacher’s take on how to pronounce “Route”… but I'm still saying it my way 😂
• Heather trying to convince me to take a cruise, but I'm not sold:
  • The infamous "Poop Cruise"
  • Cruising during COVID
  • Did she take the toilet paper? Listen to find out 🚢💩😂
• Techniques for getting your spouse to travel with you—hint: just book it 😆

🛒 Check Out Our Products:

We’ve got bold travel-inspired products at theboldroute.com/shop!

🎁 Use code BOLD20 for 20% off your steering wheel tray—perfect for road trips, travel days, or working from the car. Offer valid through August 31st.

🙌 Let’s Connect:

• Follow us on Instagram + Facebook → @theboldroute
• Shop the brand → theboldroute.com
• Got a story to share? Message us—we’d love to hear how you’re taking the Bold Route.

Stay connected with Bold Route:
Instagram: @the_boldroute
FB: @theboldroute

😀 Join our Bold Route Newsletter:
Stay inspired with bold stories, exclusive deals, and travel tips!
Sign up here!

🛒 Shop our Travel Solutions:
Discover gear designed for your adventures.
theboldroute.com/shop

In this heartfelt episode, I sit down with Holly, the founder of Psalm 139 Ministries — a powerful local ministry serving families in real need, starting with something often overlooked but deeply essential: diapers.

We talk about how government assistance doesn’t cover diapers or wipes, and how Holly — a mom of four girls with a heart for serving — turned a dream she held for over a decade into a living, breathing mission in her community.

This episode is full of honest reflections on faith, family, and obedience, even when the timeline doesn’t match your expectations. Holly opens up about how slow progress doesn’t mean no progress, and how trusting God's timing has been key to her journey.

She also shares her BIG dream for the future — a home for young moms who need support, safety, and a solid start. It's bold. It's beautiful. And it’s just the beginning.

Later in the episode, we shift gears and talk about how adventure looks in this season of life — with four young daughters in tow — and why local road trips, snacks, and trips like Dinosaur World matter more than flashy vacations right now. You’ll leave inspired to find the bold route in your own backyard.

What You’ll Learn :

• What it looks like to hold onto a dream
• Discernment for hearing when God’s calling you to wait vs. when He's telling you to move
• The role of supportive marriage and teamwork in pursuing bold callings
• Holly’s long-term dream of building a home for young mothers in crisis
• What living boldly in your current season really looks like with young kids
• Tips for road-tripping with little ones (turning pit stops into part of the adventure!)
• Why volunteering can remind you what really matters
• A powerful reminder to be still, be present, and listen for God’s voice

💕 Ways to Give to Psalm 139 Ministry

Items Accepted:

• Diapers
• Wipes
• Adult briefs and incontinence pads

(All sizes and brands accepted!)

Checks:

• Make payable to New Zion Baptist Church
  *Add memo line: Psalm 139 Ministry
  Mail to 4661 New Zion Rd, Falmouth, KY 41040

In-Person Drop-Off:

• Falmouth Baptist Church Parking Lot
  403 Maple Avenue, Falmouth, KY 41040
• The last Saturday of every month from 10 AM–12 PM
• Upcoming dates: June 28 & July 26

Online Monetary Donations:

• Donate via PayPal 👉 HERE

🎁 Claim Your Thank-You Gift!
As a thank-you for giving, you can receive a FREE Bold Route Seat Gap Filler/Organizer!
To claim yours:
👉 Just fill out this quick form


📣 For more updates on Psalm 139 Ministry:
👉 Follow New Zion Baptist Church on Facebook!

✨ Special Promo Code!

If you’d like to grab a Bold Route Seat Gap Filler Organizer (or gift one to a friend), we’re offering 25% off

Stay connected with Bold Route:
Instagram: @the_boldroute
FB: @theboldroute

😀 Join our Bold Route Newsletter:
Stay inspired with bold stories, exclusive deals, and travel tips!
Sign up here!

🛒 Shop our Travel Solutions:
Discover gear designed for your adventures.
theboldroute.com/shop

On this episode of The Bold Route Podcast.....

I sit down with my dear friend Lacy Jones, whose life has been anything but ordinary. From supporting her husband, Nathan Jones, through the grind of minor league baseball to the bright lights of the major leagues, Lacy shares the untold side of the journey—the sacrifices, the uncertainties, and the resilience it took to navigate it all.

But baseball isn’t the only part of Lacy’s story. She opens up about moving frequently, rediscovering herself after years on the road, and the shift from loving travel to finding joy in being still. This is an episode about identity, dreams, and embracing the unexpected twists in life’s adventure.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

⚾️ The reality of chasing a professional sports dream and what it means for a family
👩‍👧 How Lacy balanced motherhood and constant relocation
🤝 How to build a strong community no matter where life takes you
💭 The power of vulnerability—why sharing your dreams with others matters

And so much more....
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
🚗 Bold Route Product Spotlight: Kids Travel Tray

In this episode, we’re spotlighting our Bold Route Kids Travel Tray! Whether you're on a road trip or running errands, this tray keeps kids entertained and organized with storage, a tablet holder, and tray for snacks and activities. No more backseat chaos—just smooth travels ahead!

🎉 As a thank you for listening, enjoy 10% off your Travel Tray!
Use coupon code 👉 MLBWIFE 👈 at checkout.
👉 Shop now: theboldroute.com/shop

Offer valid for one Kids Travel Tray per customer through April 2025.

Grab yours today and make your next trip stress-free! ✈️🚙

Stay connected with Bold Route:
Instagram: @the_boldroute
FB: @theboldroute

😀 Join our Bold Route Newsletter:
Stay inspired with bold stories, exclusive deals, and travel tips!
Sign up here!

🛒 Shop our Travel Solutions:
Discover gear designed for your adventures.
theboldroute.com/shop

On this episode of The Bold Route Podcast...

We're diving into the heart of Kentucky adventure with Marie McLamb, the creative force behind Bluegrass Blog and BackroadBluegrass.com! 🐎

If you’ve ever felt like adventure requires a plane ticket, Marie is here to prove otherwise. She’s on a mission to showcase the beauty, charm, and hidden gems of Kentucky—one backroad at a time. But even if you’re not from the Bluegrass State, this episode is packed with insights on how to uncover hidden gems, support local businesses, and embrace adventure right where you are!

In This Episode, We Explore:

⏳ [00:01:00] Marie’s journey: How moving away gave her a renewed love for Kentucky
⏳ [00:07:00] What adventure really means—and how to find it close to home
⏳ [00:09:00] Turning passion into a platform: How Marie built Bluegrass Blog and why storytelling matters
⏳ [00:12:00] Tips for starting a blog (and why you shouldn’t quit your day job just yet!)
⏳ [00:18:00] The Bluegrass Creative Market: A space for Kentucky artists & makers
⏳ [00:23:00] Exploring Kentucky: Hidden gems, must-visit small towns, and scenic drives
⏳ [00:34:00] Weekend Getaway Itineraries 😀: The perfect Kentucky girls' trip, couples’ retreat, and family-friendly adventure
⏳ [00:44:00] How to explore on a budget—yes, adventure can be affordable!
⏳ [00:46:00] What’s next for Bluegrass Blog and Marie’s newest venture

Resources Mentioned:
🌟 Planning your next adventure? Marie shares expert tips on crafting the perfect girls’ trip, couples’ retreat, and family-friendly getaway—tune in at [00:34:00] for all the details!
🏞️ Marie's Top Pick hidden gem: Local Feed -Georgetown, KY

Connect with Marie:
🌐 backroadbluegrass.com
🎉 Follow Marie's Journey for giveaways, travel tips, and local adventures!
*Correction: GIVEWAYS WILL BE ON IG!
FB-BluegrassBlog
IG-@bluegrassblog

Want to meet Marie in person????
Check out her new working artist studio 👉Midway Art Studios, 2nd Floor of Midway Boutique- Downtown Midway, Kentucky.
____________________________________________________________________________________________
🚗 Bold Route Product Spotlight: Seat Gap Filler/Organizer

In today’s episode, we’re shining the spotlight on our Bold Route Seat Gap Filler! Say goodbye to lost keys, snacks, and phones sliding into the abyss between your seat and console. 🙌 Our custom-fit organizer easily separates into two pieces, offering a flexible fit for any vehicle—keeping your car neat and your essentials within reach.

🎉 As a thank you for listening, enjoy 10% off your Seat Gap Filler!
Use coupon code 👉BackroadAdventures👈 at checkout. Don’t wait—grab yours now and hit the road clutter-free! 🚙✨ 👉

Stay connected with Bold Route:
Instagram: @the_boldroute
FB: @theboldroute

😀 Join our Bold Route Newsletter:
Stay inspired with bold stories, exclusive deals, and travel tips!
Sign up here!

🛒 Shop our Travel Solutions:
Discover gear designed for your adventures.
theboldroute.com/shop

In this episode of The Bold Route Podcast, we sit down with Elizabeth and Matty Simpson—two creatives who have built a life centered around their biggest passions. Matty, a musician, and Elizabeth, a photographer, have found a way to fully embrace adventure, creativity, and meaningful experiences together.

From navigating life on their own terms to making bold choices that align with what truly matters, they share the highs, the challenges, and the unforgettable moments that have shaped their journey. Plus, they take us inside their latest adventure—a trip to Denmark—and the experiences that made it so memorable.

🔹 Topics Covered in This Episode:

✔ A Bold Life: How They Got Here – Was this lifestyle always the plan?

✔ Teamwork Makes the Dream Work – How they make their unique lifestyle work as a team.

✔ Choosing a Nontraditional Path – The rewards and the challenges.

✔ Planning Big Dreams & Goals – How they set their sights on bold experiences.

✔ Travel Planning: Spontaneous vs. Structured – Their approach to travel.

✔ An Unforgettable Trip to Denmark – The highlights of their adventure.

This conversation is all about living fully, embracing the unexpected, and chasing what sets your soul on fire. Whether you love travel, music, photography, or simply the idea of living life on your own terms, Elizabeth and Matty’s story will leave you inspired to take your own Bold Route.

✨ Tune in now and get ready to be inspired!

CONNECT with Elizabeth & Matty + Episode Resources

Elizabeth:
Website: simpsonography.com
FB- simpsonography
IG- @simpsonography
@wub.us (personal)

Matty:
Website: matthewdouglassimpson.com
Patreon.com/matthewdouglassimpson
FB- mdsimpsonmusic
IG- @mdsimpsonmusic
@noahsmithmusic
Youtube:
Matty's Midlife Crisis-

Denmark:
-Recipe for Smørrebrød (Danish open sandwiches)
-The good liquorice 👉 Skipper's Pipe
-Tips for traveling to Denmark: Have your hotel information handy before going through customs!

Stay connected with Bold Route:
Instagram: @the_boldroute
FB: @theboldroute

😀 Join our Bold Route Newsletter:
Stay inspired with bold stories, exclusive deals, and travel tips!
Sign up here!

🛒 Shop our Travel Solutions:
Discover gear designed for your adventures.
theboldroute.com/shop

In this episode of The Bold Route Podcast, we sit down with Erin Murray, who, alongside her husband and two boys, sold their home to embrace full-time RV life. Erin shares their incredible journey— managing life between their travels in their RV, exploring some of the most stunning destinations in the country and time at their home base property in California. This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about traveling outside the lines and living a bold life.

Erin takes us behind the scenes of their RV life, revealing what it’s like to homeschool while exploring new destinations, navigate the highs and lows of full-time travel, and balance it all with family goals. She also shares an emotional experience that highlighted the true value of time spent together as a family.
This adventure is the Murray family’s version of the American Dream—living life on their own terms and embracing the unexpected.

Topics Covered in This Episode:

• Living Full-Time in an RV: Insider insights on making this outside-the-box lifestyle work.
• Homeschooling on the Go: How the Murray family makes education work while traveling.
• Family Travel Tips: Practical advice for families considering the RV lifestyle.
• Memorable Destinations: Erin’s favorite spots and the impact they’ve had on their journey.
• The Importance of Family Time: An emotional story that will make you reflect about the value of time spent together with family.

One of my favorite quotes she shared during our interview was “Comparison is a thief of Joy.”

Whether you're thinking about embracing full-time RV life, want to hear how a family balances adventure with everyday life, or simply need a boost of inspiration, this episode is packed with insights to help you live your boldest life.

✨Tune in, get inspired, and learn how the Murray family is embracing the unexpected on their own Bold Route.

Links to resources highlighted in the interview:

Gold Bug Hot Springs, ID

Dockside Restaurant, ID

Big Texan Restaurant, TX

Their RV layout

Ways to save with RV Travel:

Thousand Trails

Harvest Hosts

FOLLOW ALONG THIS AMAZING JOURNEY FOR MORE TIPS AND INSPIRATION

Traveling Outside The Lines
👉youtube
👉IG

_________________________________________________________________________________

BOLD ROUTE LINKS👇👇

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Stay connected with Bold Route:
Instagram: @the_boldroute
FB: @theboldroute

😀 Join our Bold Route Newsletter:
Stay inspired with bold stories, exclusive deals, and travel tips!
Sign up here!

🛒 Shop our Travel Solutions:
Discover gear designed for your adventures.
theboldroute.com/shop