The Write Your Own Story Podcast

What if recovery isn’t a clean line from sick to healed—but a lifelong dance in the middle?

In this honest and beautifully layered episode of Write Your Own Story, Betsy sits down with author, professor, and mom Mallary Tenore Tarpley, whose debut book Slip sheds light on the overlooked space between full recovery and active struggle with an eating disorder.

Mallary shares her deeply personal story—losing her mother at age 11, developing an eating disorder as a way to stay “small and safe,” and spending years stuck in a shame-filled cycle of relapse...

You’ve checked all the boxes—career, family, beautiful life—and yet, there’s that quiet voice asking, is this really it?

In this soul-stirring (and joyfully real) conversation, Betsy sits down with Cherylanne Skolnicki—founder of Brilliant Balance and beloved mentor to thousands of driven women—to unpack the hidden weight of success. Together, they explore the tension between ambition and presence, and how to finally stop doing it all so you can start living fully.

Cherylanne’s no stranger to high performance—she’s a former Procter & Gamble exec with a Cornell degree, an MBA from Emory...

If you’re in a relationship that looks fine from the outside — but inside you feel invisible, disconnected, and exhausted — this episode is for you. Whether you’ve tried therapy, countless conversations, or just kept pushing through, it still feels like you’re carrying the emotional weight of it all.

This week, Betsy sits down with Sophie Orozco, certified relationship coach and creator of the Relationship Miracle Method, who brings 20+ years of experience in emotional healing and behavior change. Sophie shares how she rebuilt her own marriage after her husband asked for a divorce, and how you ca...

In this solo episode, Betsy opens up about the heavy anxiety so many of us are feeling right now—amid summer chaos, heartbreaking news out of Texas, and the emotional toll of simply trying to keep it all together.

She shares her own experience with anxious spirals and past panic attacks, and offers two simple, powerful tools that helped her move through a sleepless night: conscious breathing and a mindset reframe you can use anytime, anywhere.

This episode is not expert advice—it’s real talk, from one human to another. If you’re feeling overwhel...

Brain fog? Palpitations? Random anxiety, stubborn weight, and sleep that straight-up vanished? Welcome to the chaos we never got the manual for: perimenopause. In this honest, hilarious, and hope-filled episode, Betsy sits down with women’s health expert and truth-teller Dr. Sara Rinala to pull back the curtain on the decade before menopause that no one talks about—but every woman deserves to understand.

Whether you’re 35 and confused, 43 and overwhelmed, or deep in the “WTF is happening to me” stage, this conversation will make you feel seen, supported, and strong. Sara keeps it real and breaks down what’...

What if happiness wasn’t something to chase… but something you create, even on the messiest days?

In this deeply personal episode of Write Your Own Story, we’re getting real about what happiness actually is—and what it isn’t. No toxic positivity. No shiny Instagram-filtered illusions. Just honest truths about grief, boundaries, acceptance, letting go, and the radical bravery it takes to choose joy over and over again.

Betsy shares her own journey through the “messy middle”—navigating heartbreak, overwhelm, and the fear of losing happiness once she’s found it. You’ll hear about the power...

What if LinkedIn wasn’t just for job hunting—and actually became one of your favorite places to learn, connect, and grow your personal brand?

In this energizing episode of Write Your Own Story, host Betsy Leonis sits down with LinkedIn strategist and storytelling powerhouse Angie Snowball. Together, they bust the myths around LinkedIn (“Isn’t it just for finding a job?”), tackle imposter syndrome head-on, and unpack why every woman—from stay-at-home moms to small business owners and corporate climbers—should claim their space on the platform.

Angie shares her own reinvention journey, from corporate expa...

What if LinkedIn wasn’t just for job hunting—and actually became one of your favorite places to learn, connect, and grow your personal brand?

In this energizing episode of Write Your Own Story, host Betsy Leonis sits down with LinkedIn strategist and storytelling powerhouse Angie Snowball. Together, they bust the myths around LinkedIn (“Isn’t it just for finding a job?”), tackle imposter syndrome head-on, and unpack why every woman—from stay-at-home moms to small business owners and corporate climbers—should claim their space on the platform.

Angie shares her own reinvention journey, from...

In this deeply grounding episode of Write Your Own Story, Betsy Leonis sits down with Erin Morrison—therapist, author, and creator of The Conscious Mom—to explore what it really means to mother from a place of inner clarity, not outer pressure. Together, they unpack the internal tug-of-war so many moms feel: the push to get it right and the pull of emotional overload, perfectionism, and self-doubt.

Erin introduces her transformative book Three Minutes for Mom, a daily invitation to reconnect with your centre in the midst of real-life motherhood—without needing to meditate, journal, or become someon...

In this deeply grounding episode of Write Your Own Story, Betsy Leonis sits down with Erin Morrison—therapist, author, and creator of The Conscious Mom—to explore what it really means to mother from a place of inner clarity, not outer pressure. Together, they unpack the internal tug-of-war so many moms feel: the push to get it right and the pull of emotional overload, perfectionism, and self-doubt.

Erin introduces her transformative book Three Minutes for Mom, a daily invitation to reconnect with your centre in the midst of real-life motherhood—without needing to meditate, journal, or become someon...

In this inspiring episode of Write Your Own Story, host Betsy Leonidas sits down with interior designer Jackie Barnes to explore the profound connection between our living spaces and our mental health. From her roots as a mental health professional to her thriving design career, Jackie shares how thoughtful, intentional design can transform a home into a sanctuary of peace, comfort, and joy.
Together, they dive into:

✨  The power of designing spaces that reflect you — beyond trends and staged perfection
✨ How clutter, light, color, and layout impact mental and emotional well-being
 ✨ Why slowing down and tuning...

In this heartfelt episode of Write Your Own Story, Betsy sits down with author and artist Jaime Townzen for a powerful conversation on grief, motherhood, and rediscovering yourself after unimaginable loss.

Together, they explore:

🌿 The invisible weight women carry when they put everyone else first
 🌿 How creativity became Jaime’s path to healing after losing eight loved ones in six years
 🌿 The radical act of choosing yourself—especially when life feels impossibly heavy
 🌿 How honoring your voice helps you show up more fully for your family
 🌿 The quiet strength it takes to begin again

In this heartfelt and eye-opening episode of the Write Your Own Story podcast, Betsy  sits down with Dr. Ashley Solomon, a clinical psychologist and founder of Galia Collaborative, for a deeply honest conversation about women’s mental health, body image, and the complex layers of eating disorders.

Dr. Solomon, a recovering perfectionist and fierce advocate for women’s well-being, shares her insights from over a decade of experience treating eating disorders and supporting women struggling with perfectionism, burnout, and self-doubt. Together, Betsy and Dr. Solomon explore the societal pressures of “skinny culture,” the impact of trauma and chronic s...

In this radiant, laughter-filled episode of Write Your Own Story, Betsy welcomes the wildly creative and contagiously joyful Chrissie Blatt—event designer, balloon magician, and unapologetically real entrepreneur. Chrissie opens up about her journey from art school dreams to running two beloved Cincinnati businesses: Chrissie Blatt Creative and the brilliantly fun Balloon Bombed. What begins as a story about business quickly transforms into a rich conversation about motherhood, ambition, burnout, community, reinvention, and what it really looks like to chase joy while holding a hundred spinning plates.

Together, Betsy and Chrissie pu...

In this soul-stirring episode of Write Your Own Story, Betsy is joined by the incredible Ericka Nicole Malone — award-winning screenwriter, director, producer, and the visionary behind Remember Me: The Mahalia Jackson Story.

From staging her own plays in college to fund her education to rewriting the narrative of her life through storytelling, Ericka shares the pivotal moments that shaped her path — including how stillness, self-belief, and creative courage became her compass. The two dive deep into themes of joy, trauma, transformation, and the sacred discipline of choosing your thoughts every day.

Ericka also opens up abou...

Why do we stay hooked on people who don’t choose us back? Why do we fall for the fantasy over reality—and call it love? In this deeply raw and revealing episode of Write Your Own Story, Betsy sits down with author, TED speaker, and podcaster Amanda McCracken, whose personal journey through decades of longing, idealization, and self-sabotage led her to redefine love, worth, and emotional safety.

From navigating virginity into her 40s to breaking the habit loop of limerence (the intoxicating high of unrequited infatuation), Amanda shares how she rewired her patterns, faced the roots of h...

In this soul-stirring episode of Write Your Own Story, Betsy sits down with longtime friend and total powerhouse, Lisa Saia—board vice chair of ArtWorks Cincinnati—for an unfiltered, deeply inspiring conversation about purpose, pivots, and the power of public art.

What starts as a fun reunion quickly unfolds into a powerful narrative about civic pride, youth empowerment, and finding your creative purpose—especially in motherhood and beyond. Lisa pulls back the curtain on ArtWorks, a game-changing nonprofit that’s transformed over 300 blank walls into iconic murals across Cincinnati… but the real magic? It’s in the stori...

In this radiant and raw episode of Write Your Own Story, Betsy sits down with the remarkable Rachel DesRochers—serial entrepreneur, speaker, community builder, and founder of Power to Pursue—to explore what it really means to lead with gratitude, embody resilience, and live a purpose-driven life.

From launching food ventures and a nonprofit Kitchen Collective to empowering thousands of women through one of the Midwest’s largest women’s movements, Rachel’s journey is anything but ordinary. But beneath the achievements lies the deeper story: one of grief, reinvention, and the unwavering power of returning to self.
...

In this electric and soul-stirring episode of Write Your Own Story, host Betsy Leonis sits down with the radiant Katrena Friel—a business coach, spiritual guide, and unapologetic business witch—to unravel what it truly means to live a life rooted in authenticity, magic, and unapologetic self-leadership. 🌍 From Australia to your ears, Katrena shares her path from spiritual awakening to building a business that blends fierce strategy with feminine flow.

They dive deep into:
✨ Balancing divine masculine and feminine energy in business
✨ Birthing your soul’s work (and why so many women never let their ideas leave t...

What if happily ever after wasn’t a destination… but a decision?

In this deeply heartwarming and soul-nourishing episode, host Betsy sits down with the radiant Amy Furbay—self-proclaimed Chief Happiness Officer, co-owner of Cincinnati’s beloved Trevor Furbay store, and walking embodiment of authentic joy. From losing her mom at age seven to navigating heartbreak, reinvention, and new beginnings, Amy shares how she’s used gratitude, signs from the universe (hello, koala bears and doves!), and inner strength to create her own version of “happily ever after”—one rooted not in perfection, but in perspective.

We talk about...

In this deeply insightful episode of Write Your Own Story, Betsy sits down with Tarita Preston, a renowned life and leadership coach, for a conversation that will leave you feeling empowered, grounded, and ready to step into your highest potential.

Together, they explore:

💫 Inner leadership—how to break free from external validation and trust yourself fully
💫 The magic of 5%—why small, intentional shifts lead to the biggest transformations
💫 Escaping the “100% doing” trap—and learning to lead with ease, not exhaustion
💫 The Four C’s of Transformation—Curiosity, Courage, Choice & Commitment
💫 Letting go of perfectionism and embra...

In this heartwarming episode of Write Your Own Story, host Betsy Leonidas sits down with the incredibly talented Jen Hall of Jennifer Hall Needlepoint to chat about turning creativity into a thriving business, the magic of community, and embracing life’s unexpected twists. 🌷✨

Jen’s journey is a beautiful example of following your passion—from engineering and nursing to designing stunning needlepoint pieces that now grace homes and boutiques across the country. She opens up about the joys and challenges of building her business, the power of women supporting women, and how an unexpected leukemia diagnosis while pregnant wi...

🌸 In this eye-opening episode of the Write Your Own Story podcast, Betsy  welcomes Tracy Cook from ProKids to illuminate the hidden realities facing children in the foster care system—and how each of us can help change their stories. From understanding the first call that sparks an investigation to discovering the transformative role of a CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate), Tracy shows how one caring adult can shift a child’s entire future.

💕 Join us as we explore the crucial ways ProKids stands in the gap for children experiencing abuse and neglect—providing stability, a trustworthy presence, and a nurturi...

Welcome back to the Write Your Own Story Podcast! I’m your host, Betsy Leonidas, and today’s episode is one that’s been brewing in my mind for over a year. If you’re an ambitious, hardworking woman feeling exhausted by hustle culture, you’re not alone. I know the feeling all too well—juggling the roles of single mother, CEO, and leader—all while pushing through life in a way that felt inauthentic and draining.

Today, I’m sharing my journey of rediscovering feminine energy. I’ll take you through how this shift has transformed my life. I’ve lear...

In this heartwarming and inspiring episode of Write Your Own Story, Betsy is joined by Brittany Everly—attorney, entrepreneur, and a true survivor who’s faced the unimaginable head-on. From navigating stage IV colon cancer treatments while planning a wedding to confronting the emotional hurdles of infertility, Brittany’s story shines with resilience, strength, and a refusal to give up.

Together, Betsy and Brittany discuss:

Learning to self-advocate when faced with a life-altering diagnosis
How Brittany balanced hope and reality throughout her cancer battle
The emotional toll and triumphs of using gestational carriers in the...

In this heartwarming and inspiring episode of Write Your Own Story, Betsy sits down with Kristi Colby, founder of The Makeup Box and Colby Cosmetics, to explore the intersection of beauty, confidence, and authenticity. From growing up in the pageant world to becoming a successful entrepreneur and educator, Kristi shares her deeply personal journey of redefining beauty standards and creating tools to empower others.

Together, Betsy and Kristi discuss:

How natural beauty and confidence shine from the inside out.
The impact of social media on teens and beauty standards.
Kristi’s inspiring pivot fr...

In this soulful episode of Write Your Own Story, host Betsy welcomes her tennis bestie and creative powerhouse, Abby Allen. Together, they dive into the beauty of reconnection—reconnecting with ourselves, others, and our shared humanity. Abby, the visionary behind Sweet Gum Manor, shares how she’s building the first-ever "social sanctuary" in Cincinnati: a space dedicated to wellness, creativity, and meaningful connection.

Expect laughter, vulnerability, and deeply insightful moments as Betsy and Abby explore:
🌱 How healing yourself is the first step to healing the world
🌟 The power of relationships to trigger growth and self-discovery
🌳 The...

Welcome back to the Write Your Own Story podcast! After a holiday break filled with family time and reflection, I’m so excited to be back on the couch and diving into this first episode of 2025. If you’re feeling behind this January, overwhelmed by the chaos of life, or just unsure how to start the year off strong—this episode is for YOU.

In this heartfelt and inspiring conversation, I’ll walk you through my simple, proven methodology to guarantee 2025 will be your best year yet. Together, we’ll tackle:
✨ How to set meaningful goals (without the...

Welcome to a very special episode of the Write Your Own Story podcast! As we wrap up 2024 and start envisioning what 2025 will bring, your host Betsy reflects on some of the most impactful moments shared on the podcast this year. In this data-driven recap, Betsy brings you heartfelt clips that resonated deeply with our global sisterhood community — stories of bravery, self-discovery, hard questions, and honest truths.

Whether you're navigating life transitions, seeking clarity, or simply craving a soul-sparking conversation, this episode promises to deliver insights and wisdom to guide you into the new year with renewed purpose. He...

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of the Write Your Own Story Podcast, host Betsy welcomes Liz Michaels, a self-advocate for the autistic community whose incredible journey will leave you snapping, clapping, and shouting “hell yes!”

Diagnosed with autism at just three years old, Liz was met with doubt and dismissal from society—but she’s spent her life proving everyone wrong. From navigating the challenges of middle school bullying to building a thriving career, Liz’s story is one of resilience, empathy, and empowerment.

Liz shares how she defied expectations, became an advocate for the autist...

In this heartfelt and enlightening episode of Write Your Own Story, Betsy sits down with Emmy Schroder, Executive Director of La Soupe—a Cincinnati-based nonprofit tackling food waste and food insecurity in groundbreaking ways. From their humble beginnings as a “Soup Shack” to becoming a model organization recognized nationwide, Emmy shares La Soupe’s journey of transforming discarded food into nutritious meals for those in need.

Discover:

In this warm and whimsical episode, Betsy is joined by her hilarious and heartfelt bestie, Lara Roller, for a candid and comforting chat. Together, they tackle the rollercoaster of emotions that come with the holiday season— from festive joys to the stress of missing shin guards, misplaced pants, and surprise morning performances.

What’s in store?

💡 Real Talk: Navigating the holiday hustle and embracing the chaos without losing your magic.

🪞 Holding the Mirror: Learn how to recognize and celebrate the magic within yourself (yes, YOU!).

✍️ Actionable Advice: Tips for putting down the "shoulds,"...

In this solo episode of the Write Your Own Story podcast, Betsy speaks directly to all the amazing entrepreneurs navigating the beautiful chaos of the holiday season. Whether you're just starting out or already running your own business, this episode is packed with practical insights and inspiration to help you thrive—all while working just 20 hours a week. 🙌

With humor, heart, and hard-earned wisdom, Betsy dives into how to reclaim your time, rediscover your passions, and take your business to the next level.

Here’s what you’ll learn in this value-pac...

TRIGGER WARNING: SEXUAL CONTENT 

Calling all hopeless romantics, love skeptics, and anyone in between—this episode is for YOU! 💕 On this week’s Write Your Own Story podcast, host Betsy Leonidas chats with the fabulous Lisa Le and Julia Lestage, co-founders of a soon-to-launch dating app that’s flipping the script on modern love. Think fewer awkward swipes and more meaningful sparks—yes, please! ✨

These brilliant women share how they’re rehumanizing dating with a fresh approach that’s all about real connection, authentic conversations, and slowing things down (because love isn’t a race, right?). They also s...

In this heart-to-heart episode of the Write Your Own Story podcast, Betsy sits down with Kyle Buchta and Kim Griffiths, the inspiring women behind Moms of All Trades. Together, they explore the beauty of friendship, embracing life’s pivots, and staying true to what brings joy. From their journey navigating business twists—from styling to launching a new venture, Hut Paddle Co.—Kyle and Kim reveal the power of showing up authentically, overcoming challenges, and redefining success on their terms.

For every woman who’s doubted, redefined, or celebrated her path, this episode is a reminder that you’re n...

In this powerful episode of Write Your Own Story, Betsy sits down with Michelle Dempsey-Multack, founder of Moms Moving On. Michelle is a celebrated author, divorce coach, and the incredible mind behind a platform dedicated to helping parents navigate the tough transitions of divorce with grace, resilience, and—most importantly—a child-centered approach.

In this raw and uplifting conversation, Michelle opens up about her own journey, sharing her personal story of divorce and how it led her to a career of purpose: guiding parents through divorce with honesty and emotional intelligence. Michelle’s focus on raising “kids who don’...

Welcome back to the Write Your Own Story podcast, where every episode is a celebration of self-discovery, honesty, and growth! Today, Betsy is joined by a true trailblazer—Lisa King, founder of Free AF, a non-alcoholic cocktail brand that’s taking the sober-curious movement to new heights. Lisa’s journey from corporate marketing to creating a thriving social enterprise to launching Free AF is a testament to the power of courage, resilience, and embracing change.

In this heartfelt conversation, Lisa shares the story behind Free AF’s mission: to create sophisticated, delicious alternatives for anyone who wants to moder...

Welcome back to the Write Your Own Story podcast! In today’s episode, Betsy sits down with the multifaceted Lisa Weintraub, celebrity chef, reality TV contestant, and bold female entrepreneur. You may recognize Lisa from her time on Big Brother on CBS, but her journey is far more than reality TV. From running her thriving company, Plates by Lisa, to launching Batch Best Friend—a bachelorette-specific catering service—Lisa shares her inspiring story of building success through creativity, authenticity, and saying “yes” to the right opportunities.

In this heartfelt conversation, Lisa dives into what it means to stay groun...

In this powerful and moving episode of the Write Your Own Story podcast, Betsy  sits down with Caylin N Hunault, a dedicated mother, advocate, and the author of the beautiful children’s book Communication is More Than Words. Caylin opens up about her journey of raising her son Bryson, who was born with polymicrogyria (PMG), a rare brain condition, and autism. With her son as the inspiration, Caylin wrote her first book to highlight the many ways people communicate beyond words, helping children and adults alike understand that communication comes in many forms.

Caylin's journey as a mot...

In this episode of Write Your Own Story, Betsy sits down with the inspiring and unstoppable Kathrine Nero. Kathrine, a former news anchor turned media professional, shares her incredible journey of bouncing back after a very public firing—an event that, although painful, became the doorway to a more fulfilling chapter in her life.

Betsy and Kathrine dive deep into the themes of resilience, owning your story, and navigating life’s unexpected pivots with grace and determination. They discuss overcoming imposter syndrome, knowing your worth, and the importance of community and support. Kathrine’s journey as a two-ti...