Episode 42: Money, Meaning, and Starting Over Series: The Moments That Made Me (Part 1 of 3)

Episode Summary

In this empowering episode of Women of Fort Mill, host Leah Williams opens up about her personal journey from financial struggle to freedom. She reflects on starting over after divorce, learning to rebuild her mindset, and creating a life of abundance by investing in herself. Leah shares how redefining her relationship with money, risk, and value became the foundation of her transformation.

With honesty and heart, Leah walks listeners through her roadmap to personal and financial growth — emphasizing the importance of mindset, education, and strategic risk-taking. From sleeping on her sister’s couch to becoming a successful professional in the financial industry, her story reminds women everywhere that change is possible at any stage of life.

This episode explores what it truly means to find meaning in money, embrace self-worth, and align financial decisions with personal growth. Leah’s story will inspire you to see yourself as your greatest asset and to make bold, value-driven choices toward the future you deserve.

Episode Highlights

• Rebuilding from the ground up: Leah’s candid story of starting over after divorce and financial hardship.
• Mindset shift: How redefining her value and embracing self-worth became the key to freedom.
• Running lean with intention: Spending strategically — only on what adds value, education, or connection.
• Good debt vs. bad debt: Understanding leverage and how assets create long-term opportunity.
• The power of risk: Why taking calculated risks can unlock new levels of growth.
• Relationships as currency: How generosity, gifting, and connection lead to abundance.
• From scarcity to strategy: Seeing yourself as an asset and your skills as tools for expansion.
• Freedom through choice: Choosing sacrifice now for long-term peace and financial independence.

Final Takeaway

Leah’s message is clear — wealth begins with mindset. When you stop trying to prove your worth and start embodying it, you unlock your potential to create lasting change. Every challenge becomes an opportunity to grow, and every small, intentional decision compounds into transformation. Your skills, relationships, and story are your greatest assets — and by nurturing them, you can create a life of meaning, freedom, and purpose.

Call to Action

• Share this episode with a friend navigating perimenopause.
• Leave a 5-star review on your podcast app.
• Join the newsletter for updates and resources.
• Follow on Instagram: @womenoffortmill
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Episode 41: Discover Your Season: How Color Analysis Can Transform Your Confidence with Amy Casey of House of Colour Waxhaw

Episode Summary:

In this vibrant and inspiring episode of Women of Fort Mill, host Kellie Hoover sits down with Amy Casey, founder of House of Colour Waxhaw and former educator turned color consultant, to explore how discovering your personal color palette can transform not only your wardrobe but your self-confidence.

Amy shares her journey from a 25-year career in education to launching her thriving color analysis business. She explains how a personal experience with color analysis sparked her passion for helping others align their appearance with their natural beauty. Together, Kellie and Amy unpack the science and psychology behind color analysis.

Listeners will learn how this process goes far beyond fashion. Amy discusses the emotional empowerment that comes from showing up confidently. She also touches on the deeper impact of color analysis for men, women, and even children, highlighting how it nurtures self-esteem and harmony across all areas of life

Episode Highlight:

Amy’s Journey from Educator to Entrepreneur: How she pivoted careers after three decades in education and found a calling in helping others express confidence through color

The Science Behind Color Analysis: Amy explains the process of determining skin undertones and seasonal palettes using natural light and precision-dyed drapes.

The Confidence Connection: How understanding your colors allows you to simplify your wardrobe, make better style choices, and feel more radiant in everyday life

Beyond the Closet: The ripple effect of color confidence—from family photos to professional branding, to even donating old clothes that no longer serve you.

Inclusivity in Color Analysis: Why this transformative process is for everyone—women, men, and even children—and how it builds confidence and authenticity at any age

Amy’s New Offerings: Insights into her Wardrobe Edit service and the Seasonal Shopping Subscription, which provides personalized, color-verified clothing links each month.

Final Takeaway:

Color analysis isn’t about following fashion trends—it’s about understanding yourself. Knowing your true colors helps you show up in the world as your most authentic, confident, and radiant self. Whether you’re getting dressed for a big meeting or just running errands, wearing the hues that harmonize with your natural undertones can shift your energy, elevate your mood, and empower you to shine effortlessly.

Amy’s story is a beautiful reminder that transformation often begins with self-discovery. When you embrace what naturally complements you, you don’t just change your wardrobe—you change how you feel in your own skin.

Call to Action

• Share this episode with a friend navigating perimenopause.
• Leave a 5-star review on your podcast app.
• Join the newsletter for updates and resources.
• Follow on Instagram: @womenoffortmill
• Tag us with your favorite insight!

Amy’s Links

Website: https://chatgpt.com/c/68f8b019-94f8-8324-a135-3d60fd0d0702#

Follow her @houseofcolour_waxhaw

Support the show

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• Follow Women of Fort Mill Podcast on Instagram: @womenoffortmill
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Episode 40: How Human Design Helps You Heal, Thrive, and Live with Purpose

Episode Summary
In this inspiring episode of Women of Fort Mill, hosts Leah Williams and Kelly Hoover sit down with Rachel Walt—a Speech-Language Pathologist turned Reiki Master, Human Design Coach, and founder of Crafting Good. Rachel shares her personal journey of transformation—how navigating postpartum depression, career burnout, and self-discovery led her to blend science, spirituality, and creativity into a holistic practice that empowers others to reconnect with their authentic selves.

From her years in the medical field to becoming a guide for women seeking alignment and purpose, Rachel opens up about how tools like meditation, Reiki, and Human Design have helped her and her clients thrive. Whether you’re a mom navigating identity shifts, a professional facing burnout, or someone searching for deeper self-understanding, this conversation will leave you with powerful tools and perspectives to begin your own journey of self-reclamation.

Episode Highlights

• Rachel’s Journey: From healthcare to healing—how a difficult transition into motherhood led Rachel to explore energy work, emotional regulation, and spirituality.
  
  
• The Turning Point: Her experience during the pandemic and how meditation and setting boundaries became her foundation for personal stability.
  
  
• Discovering Human Design: A breakdown of what Human Design is, how it differs from traditional personality tests, and how it combines systems like astrology, the I Ching, Kabbalah, and the chakra system to map out personal energetics.
  
  
• The Power of Self-Awareness: How understanding your unique energetic blueprint can help you make aligned decisions, strengthen relationships, and release self-judgment.
  
  
• Parenting Through Human Design: Rachel shares how learning her children’s charts changed her approach to parenting—from frustration to compassion and empowerment.
  
  
• The AMP Method and Crafting Good: How Rachel helps clients integrate human design, Reiki, and mindfulness practices to heal, grow, and lead lives aligned with purpose.
  
  
• Real-Life Application: From individual sessions and mentorships to energy workshops, Rachel shows how self-knowledge can transform families, teams, and communities.
  
  
• Practical Advice: For women feeling out of alignment—Rachel offers guidance on curiosity, compassion, and taking the first step toward rediscovering who you are beyond your roles.

Final Takeaway

Your energy is your most authentic compass. When you understand how it flows—and honor it—you stop forcing yourself into boxes that don’t fit and start living in harmony with who you truly are.

You are right where you need to be. Growth begins with curiosity and compassion—for yourself and those around you.

Call to Action

• Share this episode with a friend navigating perimenopause.
• Leave a 5-star review on your podcast app.
• Join the newsletter for updates and resources.
• Follow on Instagram: @womenoffortmill
• Tag us with your favorite insight!

Rachel’s Links

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wearecraftinggood
• Website: https://craftinggood.com/

Support the show

Let's connect

• Follow Women of Fort Mill Podcast on Instagram: @womenoffortmill
• Rate and review the podcast wherever you listen.
• Message us with your feedback and suggestions for future episodes.
• Join our email list for updates and event information.

Episode 39: Peptides & GLP-1s for Women’s Health (3-Part Series)
Part 3 of 3: Perimenopause, Hormones & the Power of Peptides

Episode Summary
In the finale of our peptide series, host Kellie Hoover breaks down what really happens in perimenopause—why fluctuating estrogen and progesterone can change sleep, mood, cravings, and body composition—and how peptides can support your biology through this transition. In plain English, Kelly explains how to steady energy, protect muscle, improve recovery, and support skin and collagen while navigating midlife shifts. You’ll also learn her simple M.O.M. Framework—Muscle first, Optimize protein, and Master recovery—so you can build strength, stabilize appetite, and manage stress with a practical plan (not perfection). If your body feels like it’s “updating its operating system” every week, this episode helps you replace confusion with clarity and take charge of your hormonal health with confidence.

Episode Highlights

• Understanding Perimenopause
• Peptides 101 (Quick Refresh)
• Metabolism Reset
• The M.O.M. Framework:
  • M — Muscle First: Strength train 2–4x/week to protect metabolism, joints, bones, and confidence.
  • O — Optimize Protein: Aim for 30–40g per meal; anchor breakfast to calm cravings and preserve lean mass.
  • M — Master Recovery: Prioritize sleep hygiene, stress care (walks, breathwork, boundaries), hydration, and electrolytes
• Myth Busting:
  • “Perimenopause = weight gain.” False. You can change your trajectory with training, nutrition, and smart tools.
  • “It’s HRT or nothing.” Not true. There’s a personalized spectrum—nutrition, stress care, peptides, and (for some) HRT.
  • “Eat less, move more” fixes everything. Ineffective. In midlife, muscle is the metabolism lever.
• Smart Use of Peptides: Tools—not magic. Pair with protein and strength training; always work with a qualified clinician and accredited pharmacies.

Final Takeaway
Perimenopause isn’t an ending—it’s a transition. With the right plan, you can feel strong, clear, and energized. Build muscle, fuel with adequate protein, protect recovery, and use peptides strategically (with clinical guidance) to support appetite, sleep, mood, and skin. Your hormones may shift, but your ability to thrive does not have to fade.

Call to Action

• Share this episode with a friend navigating perimenopause.
• Leave a 5-star review on your podcast app.
• Join the newsletter for updates and resources.
• Follow on Instagram: @womenoffortmill
• Tag us with your favorite insight!

Kellie’s Links

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelliehoover/?hl=en
• Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/empowerkellie
• Email: restoremyhealthtoday@gmail.com

Support the show

Let's connect

• Follow Women of Fort Mill Podcast on Instagram: @womenoffortmill
• Rate and review the podcast wherever you listen.
• Message us with your feedback and suggestions for future episodes.
• Join our email list for updates and event information.

Episode 38: Peptides & GLP-1s for Women’s Health (3-Part Series)
Part 2 of 3: Weight Loss, Energy & Confidence in Midlife

Episode Summary:

In this powerful continuation of our Peptides Series, host Kellie Hoover takes you deeper into the science and real-life impact of GLP-1s and GIPs—two breakthrough peptides changing the conversation around weight loss, energy, and confidence for women in midlife.

From battling food cravings and emotional eating to improving heart, kidney, and even brain health, these peptides are more than just a trend—they’re a science-backed tool that could transform how women navigate perimenopause, menopause, and beyond.

Kellie explains in plain English science how GLP-1 and GIP peptides help regulate appetite, steady energy, and reduce “food noise” so you can reclaim mental bandwidth for what matters most—your family, your business, and your well-being.

She also breaks down the difference between semaglutide (GLP-1) and tirzepatide (dual GLP-1 + GIP), shares key findings from landmark clinical trials, and offers insight into microdosing strategies that may enhance results while reducing side effects.

If you’ve been curious about peptides for weight management, energy, or overall health—this episode will empower you with the knowledge you need to make confident, informed decisions.

Episode Highlights:

GLP-1 & GIP Basics: How these natural hormones help regulate appetite, glucose control, and metabolism.

Weight Loss Science: Clinical studies show semaglutide delivers ~15% weight loss, while tirzepatide averages 15–21% over 72 weeks (without diabetes).

Beyond the Scale: Peptides may support heart health, kidney function, PCOS management, and even brain health/dementia prevention.

Food Noise Relief: Discover how peptides reduce cravings and quiet the constant chatter around food.

Microdosing Explained: Why smaller doses are gaining traction for minimizing side effects and improving safety.

Real-Life Experience: Kelly’s personal journey with food cravings, stress eating, and energy transformation.

Safety & Side Effects: What to know about nausea, dosage, and consulting healthcare professionals.

Final Takeaway:

GLP-1s and GIPs are not magic fixes—but when paired with protein-rich meals, movement, sleep, and stress reduction, they can deliver extraordinary results. For women navigating hormonal shifts, emotional eating patterns, or midlife weight struggles, these peptides may offer a path to lasting weight management, renewed confidence, and vibrant energy.

The future of women’s health is here—and it’s about more than just weight loss. It’s about reclaiming bandwidth, living with confidence, and thriving in midlife and beyond.

Call to Action:

- Share this podcast episode on social media
- Leave a 5-star review on your podcast platform
- Sign up for the Women of Fort Mill podcast newsletter
- Follow the podcast on Instagram @womenoffortmill
- Tag the hosts and share what inspired you from this episode

- Kellie's IG: https://www.instagram.com/kelliehoover/?hl=en

- Kellie's FB: https://web.facebook.com/empowerkellie

- email her at restoremyhealthtoday@gmail.com

Support the show

Let's connect

• Follow Women of Fort Mill Podcast on Instagram: @womenoffortmill
• Rate and review the podcast wherever you listen.
• Message us with your feedback and suggestions for future episodes.
• Join our email list for updates and event information.

Episode 37: Peptides & GLP-1s for Women’s Health (3-Part Series)
Part 1 of 3: Peptides 101 - What They Are & Why Moms Are Talking About Them

Episode Summary:
In this episode of the Women of Fort Mill Podcast, host Kellie Hoover kicks off a powerful three-part series on peptides. If you’ve heard the buzz about peptides but still aren’t sure what they are or why everyone—from celebrities to everyday moms—is talking about them, this is your starting point.

In Part 1: Peptides 101, Kellie breaks down what peptides are in simple, relatable terms, busts common myths, and shares her own personal story of transformation. She explains why peptides are often called the “messengers” of the body and how they can help with energy, skin health, metabolism, and more. Listeners will also learn the difference between supplement-based peptides versus prescription bioidentical peptides, what makes them safe, and why they aren’t a “quick fix” but a powerful tool when combined with healthy habits.

Perfect for women seeking real answers about functional health, preventive care, and ways to optimize their bodies for energy, confidence, and longevity.

Episode Highlights:

What are peptides?
Short chains of amino acids that act as messengers in your body, signaling cells to repair, recover, and function at their best.

Peptides vs. Steroids:
Peptides don’t replace hormones like steroids. Instead, they “remind” the body to do what it already knows how to do.

Supplemental vs. Bioidentical Peptides:

• Topical/supplement peptides (found in creams, serums, powders, or pills) provide surface-level support.
• Prescription bioidentical peptides (injections, nasal sprays, sublingual drops) deliver targeted, medical-grade results.

Myth Busting:

• Peptides are not steroids.
• They are safe when prescribed through accredited pharmacies.
• They are not a quick fix but a tool best paired with proper nutrition, hydration, movement, and sleep.
• Peptides are not just for athletes—they benefit moms, dads, and grandparents alike.

Kellie’s Story:
After years in pharmaceuticals and supplements, Kellie turned to peptide therapy through a telehealth platform. She lost over 30 pounds, reduced food noise, gained energy, and experienced lasting results—all while maintaining healthy habits.

Why women are paying attention now:
Everyday women are exploring peptides to feel stronger, sharper, and more confident in their bodies.

Final Takeaway:

Peptides aren’t hype—they’re tools. They work best when integrated with lifestyle choices like clean nutrition, consistent movement, proper sleep, and hydration. Whether you’re a mom navigating perimenopause, a busy professional battling brain fog, or simply someone seeking healthier longevity, peptides can be the missing piece in your wellness puzzle.

Call to Action:

- Share this podcast episode on social media
- Leave a 5-star review on your podcast platform
- Sign up for the Women of Fort Mill podcast newsletter
- Tag the hosts and share what inspired you from this episode

- Kellie's IG: https://www.instagram.com/kelliehoover/?hl=en

- Kellie's FB: https://web.facebook.com/empowerkellie

- email her at restoremyhealthtoday@gmail.com

Support the show

Let's connect

• Follow Women of Fort Mill Podcast on Instagram: @womenoffortmill
• Rate and review the podcast wherever you listen.
• Message us with your feedback and suggestions for future episodes.
• Join our email list for updates and event information.

Episode 36: From Teacher to Attorney: Tristan Hunkin on Family, Legacy & Regifting Grace

Episode Summary:
In this powerful and practical episode of the Women of Fort Mill Podcast, co-host Leah Williams sits down with attorney, author, and military mom Tristan Hunkin, founder of Hunkin Law. Tristan’s story is one of courage, resilience, and reinvention. Once a high school business teacher, she made the bold decision to pursue a second career in law—earning her degree from Georgetown and building a practice that serves clients virtually across multiple states. As a military spouse and mom, she knows firsthand the challenges of balancing family life, career pivots, and personal growth, and she shares how those experiences shaped her purpose-driven career.

Tristan now helps families, business owners, and individuals protect what matters most through estate planning, trust creation, and legal strategies that give them peace of mind. She also opens up about her upcoming book, Regifting Grace, which dives into the essential balance between grace and accountability in our closest relationships. Listeners will hear how she navigates the complexities of marriage, motherhood, and entrepreneurship while emphasizing authenticity, communication, and long-term vision. This episode blends practical financial and legal advice with heartfelt wisdom that every woman—whether a mom, entrepreneur, or professional—will find both relatable and empowering.

Episode Highlights:

• How Tristan transformed her students’ encouragement into a leap of faith that led her to law school.
• The story and message behind her book Regifting Grace and why both grace and accountability are necessary for deep, lasting relationships.
• Her perspective on motherhood: balancing solo parenting as a military spouse with raising resilient, connected children.
• The role of supportive partnerships and why choosing the right people to surround yourself with is critical for success.
• Why every parent should secure temporary guardianship documents and how a trust protects your home and assets.
• Real-life examples of handling accountability conversations with spouses, children, colleagues, and even within community leadership roles.

Final Takeaway:

Tristan’s story reminds us that protecting our future and nurturing our most important relationships go hand in hand. Estate planning isn’t reserved for the wealthy—it’s about ensuring your children, spouse, and legacy are cared for, even in unexpected moments. Her wisdom also highlights that grace and accountability are not opposites but partners—together they create relationships built on honesty, respect, and deep connection. Whether you’re navigating family life, entrepreneurship, or your own personal growth, this episode offers encouragement and actionable steps to move forward with clarity and confidence.

Call to Action:

- Leave a 5-star review on your podcast platform
- Sign up for the Women of Fort Mill podcast newsletter
- Follow the podcast on Instagram @womenoffortmill
- Tag the hosts and share what inspired you from this episode

***Connect with Tristan at hunkinlaw.com

***Tristan’s IG: https://instagram.com/tristan.hunkin

Support the show

Let's connect

• Follow Women of Fort Mill Podcast on Instagram: @womenoffortmill
• Rate and review the podcast wherever you listen.
• Message us with your feedback and suggestions for future episodes.
• Join our email list for updates and event information.

Episode 35: Raising Confident & Polite Kids: How Junior Assembly is Shaping the Next Generation

Episode Summary:
In this episode of the Women of Fort Mill Podcast, host Kellie Hoover welcomes special guest LeShea Perkins, founder of the Junior Assembly program in Fort Mill and Lake Wylie. Junior Assembly is designed to help children develop timeless social skills—that build confidence and prepare them for success in school, community, and future careers.

LeShea shares how her daughter’s experience in a long-standing Gastonia program inspired her to bring etiquette classes for kids to York County. What began as an exclusive, invite-only program has transformed into a welcoming, inclusive space where both girls and boys can grow. With a focus on confidence, character, and connection, Junior Assembly equips children to thrive in real-life situations—whether it’s speaking up in a group, handling themselves at a formal dinner, or showing up with confidence at school dances and job interviews.

Episode Highlights:

• From Exclusive to Inclusive: Learn how LeShea reshaped Junior Assembly from a hush-hush tradition into an open etiquette program for children in Fort Mill and Lake Wylie.
• Why Etiquette Matters in Today’s Digital Age: With kids spending more time on screens, many struggle with basic face-to-face interactions.
• Confidence for Life: From table manners for kids to writing thank-you notes, Junior Assembly teaches life skills that extend into adulthood, professional networking, and leadership.
• Parent Success Stories: Hear how families are already seeing the impact—from children using etiquette at home to teens approaching job interviews and school dances with confidence.
• Program Structure: Running from September through April, Junior Assembly includes eight themed monthly events covering dining etiquette, ballroom dance lessons, social media etiquette, and communication skills for grades 4–8.
• Quick Parenting Tip: LeShea’s simple advice—“put the phones away and acknowledge people when they walk into the room”—is a small but powerful way to model and encourage respect at home.

Final Takeaway:

Raising children who are confident, kind, and socially aware doesn’t happen overnight—it takes practice, exposure, and guidance. The Junior Assembly in Fort Mill and Lake Wylie gives kids a safe, structured environment to step away from screens and practice real-world skills that will serve them for a lifetime. Whether it’s polite introductions, table etiquette, or dance lessons for kids, these experiences help shape respectful, capable young adults who are ready to shine in school, family life, and the workplace.

If you’re a parent searching for confidence-building programs for kids, children’s etiquette classes near Fort Mill, or simply a positive weekend activity, Junior Assembly is more than just a program—it’s an investment in your child’s future.

Call to Action:

- Leave a 5-star review on your podcast platform
- Sign up for the Women of Fort Mill podcast newsletter
- Follow the podcast on Instagram @womenoffortmill
- Tag the hosts and share what inspired you from this episode

Junior Assembly website: juniorassemblyofyork.com

Facebook page: Fort Mill Junior Assembly

Support the show

Let's connect

• Follow Women of Fort Mill Podcast on Instagram: @womenoffortmill
• Rate and review the podcast wherever you listen.
• Message us with your feedback and suggestions for future episodes.
• Join our email list for updates and event information.