Joy of the Hang | Connection & Empowerment Stories
Hosted by Sharon Stevenson | Connection & Empowerment HostJoin Sharon Stevenson on Joy of the Hang, a podcast dedicated to storytelling, connection, and empowerment. Explore how vulnerability and meaningful relationships impact your emotional wellbeing, spiritual health, and overall wellness. As a certified Health and Wellness Coach and former bodybuilder, Sharon dives deep into the eight pillars of health, shedding light on the importance of social and occupational wellness. Discover inspiring stories that empower you to foster connection, resilience, and a balanced lifestyle. If you're seeking authentic connection, emotional growth, and empowerment, this podcast is your sanctuary for wellness coaching and real-life wisdom...
82. Live to 100: 101-Year-Old Olga Genersich Shares Longevity Secrets, Lessons, & Tips for Living Well.
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What’s the secret to living a long life—and more importantly, a meaningful one?
At 101 years old, Olga Genersich has lived through over a century of change, challenge, love, and growth. In this powerful episode of Joy of the Hang, she shares her perspective on longevity, healthy aging, life lessons, and what truly matters in the end.
This isn’t about quick fixes or longevity hacks. It’s about the kind of wisdom that only comes from living—fully, deeply, and over time. Olga reflects on love, loss, resilience...
81. Surviving the Unthinkable: Chasity Vannatter on Child Trafficking, Survival, and Healing
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Listener Note:
This episode contains sensitive content, including discussion of child trafficking and abuse. Please listen with care, and take breaks if needed. If this topic is personal for you, you are not alone—support resources are included below.
In this deeply moving episode of Joy of the Hang, Sharon sits down with Chasity Vannatter, a survivor of child sex trafficking who was exploited by her own mother for seven years.
Chasity shares her story with courage and honesty—offering a rare and powerful look into the...
80. 13 Hours in Benghazi: Mark Geist's Firsthand Account of the Attack That Shocked the World
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In one of the most powerful conversations on Joy of the Hang, Sharon sits down with Mark Geist—one of the security operators portrayed in 13 Hours—and his wife, Krystal, to share the real story behind the 2012 Benghazi attack.
This is not a retelling of headlines. This is a firsthand account from someone who lived it.
Mark takes us inside the chaos of that night—the decisions, the danger, and the moments that would change his life forever. But what makes this conversation truly unforgettable is what comes after. Togeth...
79. Is Homeschooling the Future of Education? With Sam Sorbo
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What if everything we’ve been told about education… is wrong?
In this episode of Joy of the Hang, Sharon sits down with actress, author, and education advocate Sam Sorbo for a candid and thought-provoking conversation about parenting, homeschooling, and the systems shaping our children’s futures.
From questioning traditional schooling to redefining what it means to truly educate, Sam shares why she believes parents—not institutions—should lead the learning journey. Together, we explore independence, critical thinking, and the courage to challenge the status quo.
This conversati...
78. Motherhood, ADHD & Military Life: The Truth with Kendall Mariah
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In this episode of Joy of the Hang™, Sharon sits down with author, content creator, and military spouse Kendall Mariah for a deeply honest conversation about what happens when life doesn’t unfold the way you expected.
From navigating ADHD and fertility struggles to the realities of motherhood, marriage, and identity, Kendall shares what she calls “soul friction” — those seasons where everything feels uncertain, uncomfortable, and unresolved… yet quietly transformative.
Together, they explore the pressure to have it all figured out, the emotional weight of changing roles, and the courage it t...
77. It's my Birthday! Life lessons on Turning 60!
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Today, I turn 60. And instead of slowing down, I’m stepping fully into who I was always meant to be.
In this special solo episode of Joy of the Hang, I’m sharing the life lessons that didn’t just shape me — they transformed me. The moments that broke me open, the experiences that rebuilt me, and the connections that reminded me what it truly means to belong.
This isn’t just a reflection on age — it’s a celebration of growth, resilience, and the power of choosing joy, again and agai...
76. Designing Experiences People Never Forget
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What turns an event into an experience people talk about for years?
In this episode of Joy of the Hang, Sharon Stevenson sits down with Gillian Marto and Debra Hull, the creative minds behind Events of a Lifetime Productions, an award-winning event production and branding company known for turning ordinary gatherings into unforgettable experiences.
Gillian, named Atlanta’s Event Industry “Rising Star,” is known for bold, imaginative concepts like the Branded Live Hand Wall and the now-famous Champagne Vendin...
75. Burnout, Breakups & the Soul: Rebuilding from the Inside Out | with Emilee Tucker
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Success on paper doesn’t always feel like peace in your body.
In this episode, Emilee Tucker shares how corporate stagnation and a painful breakup forced her into a deeper journey of self-discovery — one that went beyond productivity hacks and leadership books.
Emilee believes the soul is the missing piece in modern self-development. Through energetics, breathwork, Human Design, and deep self-awareness, she now helps others reconnect with who they truly are — not who they were conditioned to be.
We explore:
• Why burnout is often misalignment
• The danger...
74. Building Bold: A Candid Conversation with Kortney Farhat on Leadership, Growth & Reinvention
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In this episode, I sit down with Kortney Farhat for an honest and energizing conversation about what it really takes to build, lead, and evolve in today’s fast-changing world.
Kortney shares her journey—lessons learned, pivotal risks taken, and the mindset shifts that helped her navigate challenges and step confidently into new levels of growth. We talk about leadership under pressure, trusting your instincts, overcoming self-doubt, and how to stay aligned while scaling your ambitions.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, creative, executive, or someone in the middle of your o...
73. Reinventing Life at 50+: Lorraine Ladish on Confidence, Community & Viva Fifty
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What if turning 50 wasn’t the beginning of the end — but the start of your most powerful chapter?
In this episode of Joy of the Hang, I sit down with Lorraine Ladish, CEO and co-founder of Viva Fifty!, a dynamic bilingual community celebrating life at 50 and beyond.
Originally from Madrid and now based in Sarasota, Lorraine shares her bold reinvention story — from losing her print journalism career during the 2008 recession to becoming a leading midlife content creator and voice for women’s empowerment.
We talk about:
72. . Love, Sleep Deprivation & a Whole New Identity: Life After Baby
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In this honest and heartfelt episode, Sharon sits down with interior designer and new mom Christiana Engert to talk about the life shift no one can fully prepare you for: your first baby.
We go beyond the cute photos and nursery décor to unpack the real changes that happen after becoming parents. Christiana opens up about what surprised her most — from the emotional and physical transformation of her body to the unexpected mental load of new motherhood. We talk about how your relationship with your spouse evolves, how rol...
71. What Every Woman Needs to Know About Pregnancy, IVF, and Finding Support
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In this heartfelt episode of Joy of the Hang, I sit down with Christina Ordonez for an honest conversation about the emotional, physical, and relational challenges of pregnancy and IVF treatments.
Christina shares what it’s really like to walk through uncertainty, medical interventions, hope, disappointment, and resilience—often quietly, and often without enough support. We talk about the parts of fertility journeys that are rarely discussed: the isolation, the pressure to stay positive, and the deep need for connection during one of life’s most vulnerable seasons.
This...
70. The Price of Truth: Protecting Whistleblowers Who Serve
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In this powerful episode of Joy of the Hang, Sharon Stevenson sits down with Francesca Graham, an advocate working with the Walk the Talk Foundation, an organization dedicated to defending whistleblowers in service who risk their careers—and often their well-being—by telling the truth.
Francesca shares what it really means to “walk the talk” when integrity collides with institutions, and why protecting those who speak up is not just a legal issue, but a moral one. Together, they explore the personal cost of courage, the isolation whistleblowers often face, an...
69. Sober Founders: Why the Clear-Minded Entrepreneur is the Future (with Andrew Lasisse)
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What happens when you remove alcohol from the founder lifestyle—and replace it with clarity, community, and purpose? In today’s episode, Sharon sits down with Andrew Lasisse, founder of Sober Founders, to talk about sobriety in entrepreneurship, building identity without drinking culture, and why going alcohol-free can become a true competitive advantage. We dive into business growth, mental health, confidence, and the power of connection when you choose a new way to “hang.” If you’re sober-curious, in recovery, or building something big—this one will hit home.
https://www...
67. Vietnamese Boat People: Nini Ta’s Remarkable Path to Freedom and Success
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This episode is a gripping, heart-stirring journey you’ll never forget.
At just 14 years old, Nini Ta fled South Vietnam as one of the Vietnamese Boat People—risking everything for a chance at freedom. Her escape was perilous, her time in a refugee camp was uncertain, and her arrival in the United States marked only the beginning of an entirely new fight for survival.
But Nini didn’t just rebuild her life…
 She rose.
Today, she’s an acclaimed dentist who runs a...
66. 10 Languages, One Purpose: The Extraordinary Calling of Zach Kyriazis
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Season 2 opens with a remarkable story of bold faith and unstoppable purpose.
In this episode, I sit down with Zach Kyriazis—a 20-year-old evangelist and missionary who speaks ten languages and spends his life spreading the message of Christ across Ukraine and developing nations. Zach found Jesus at just fourteen years old, and from that moment on, his path was set: go where hope is needed most and meet people exactly where they are.
Together, we talk about:
The moment Zach encountered Christ and how it re...Bonus Episode! From Survivor to Stand-up: Lessons from My Daughter, Haley Stark, on Living with a Disability.
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At just 12 years old, Haley Stark survived a spinal stroke that left her partially paralyzed and fighting for her life. Today, she is a powerful example of resilience, disability empowerment, and overcoming adversity.
In this moving episode of Joy of the Hang, Haley joins her mom, Sharon Stevenson, to share how surviving a childhood stroke reshaped her identity—and her future. After losing the use of her dominant right hand, Haley retrained her brain, adapted to life with a disability, and refused to let limitations de...
65. New Year, New Strength: Fitness Fundamentals with Trainer Jim Foubister
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Ready to reset your health in the new year? Personal trainer Jim Foubister joins Sharon with practical, sustainable tips for building strength, boosting metabolism, and creating fitness habits that last longer than January.
Jim shares simple strategies for improving mobility, staying motivated, and designing routines that fit your real life—not the idealized one on Instagram. His approach is grounded, encouraging, and perfect for anyone wanting to feel stronger, lighter, and more energized in 2025.
And in true Joy of the Hang spirit, Jim helps us reconnect with th...
64. Slim Down, Level Up: Mylitta Butler’s 161-Pound Transformation
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In this powerful episode of Joy of the Hang, I sit down with Mylitta Butler, author of Slim Down, Level Up, to talk about her extraordinary 161-pound weight loss journey — and how she’s kept it off.
Mylitta opens up about the mindset shifts, the daily rituals, the emotional healing, and the deep “why” that fueled her transformation. This isn’t a story about dieting. It’s a story about reclaiming your life, your health, and your joy.
If you need hope, motivation, or a reminder that it’s never t...
63. From Vision to Embodiment: Living a Life Money Can’t Buy
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In this episode of Joy of the Hang, Sharon sits down with Jessica Rueger — a guide to visionary leaders who are ready to create a life that feels as good on the inside as it looks on the outside. Jessica’s work is all about divine embodiment, energetic alignment, and conscious creation—helping people design a life of freedom, fulfillment, and success that money alone can’t buy.
Together, we explore what it really means to live an exquisite life: one built on intention, connecti...
62. La Dolce Hang: From Baltimore Tables to the Amalfi Coast
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In this episode of Joy of the Hang, host Sharon Stevenson travels—figuratively and emotionally—to Italy with mother-and-son duo Mary Ann and Mimmo Cricchio, the heart behind Da Mimmo Tours. From their legendary Baltimore restaurant to luxury culinary adventures along the Amalfi Coast, the Cricchios have built a life centered on food, family, and connection. Discover how they transformed hospitality into heritage, and why they believe joy is best served with good wine, good company, and a view of the Mediterranean.
https://www.damimmotours.com/
Su...
61. From Wall Street to Well-Being: Beth Lawlor on Redefining Wealth
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Beth Lawlor has built her career at the highest levels of finance—leading thousands across the country as President of U.S. Bank Wealth Management. But in this candid conversation, Beth opens up about more than markets and money. She shares how she leads with purpose, creates connection in a competitive industry, and defines true wealth beyond the balance sheet.
We talk about resilience, leadership lessons from her 25-year career spanning UBS, Merrill Lynch, Morgan Stanley, and Wells Fargo, and how she stays grounded in a fast-moving financial world. Named one of...
60. Resilience & Reinvention: A Ukrainian Entrepreneur’s Journey with Yana Matviychuk
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In this episode of Joy of the Hang, Sharon welcomes Ukrainian entrepreneur-philanthropist Yana Matviychuk — founder of the creative agency ARENA CS, the Women’s Aid International charity fund, and a driving force for business, volunteerism and humanitarian impact in wartime Ukraine. We dive into how Yana started a company with just $300, scaled it into multi-million-dollar success, pivoted into radical philanthropy during conflict, and is now helping reshape Ukraine’s economy, infrastructure and civil society. If you’re curious about business as service, leading with heart under pressure, and creating legacy that crosses borders—this conve...
59. Integrative Health and Healing: Beyond Symptoms with Dr. Robin Perry Braun
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In this Joy of the Hang episode, Sharon sits down with Dr. Robin Perry Braun—PhD in Integrative Medicine, MS in Psychology, and ordained minister—whose life’s work is helping people release the inner blocks that keep them from peace, joy, and purpose. We get into the “how”: energy and the nervous system, belief patterns, trauma imprints, and practical tools to support real-world change. Dr. Braun shares insights from 30+ years of practice and her books (Living Like a Son, Thrive, A Believer’s Guide to the Law of Attraction, 30 Days to Peace and Joy, Jou...
58. Root Cause, Real Talk: Women’s Health and Hormone Harmony with Dr. Victoria Andarcia
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Ever wondered why your body feels different lately—why you might be low on energy, struggling with night sweats, mood swings, brain fog, or just feel like you’re not you anymore? In this episode, Sharon sits down with Dr. Victoria Andarcia, board-certified in internal medicine with advanced training in integrative and functional medicine, to explore what it really means to reclaim vitality, rebalance your hormones, and feel good in your body again.
Dr. Andarcia practices at Reveal Vitality in downtown Sarasota, where she helps women navigate pivotal life stages—fertility, perime...
57. How to create a successful mindset
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In a world obsessed with hustle, Katie Close teaches a different path—one that honors the soul behind the strategy. With over two decades of experience helping entrepreneurs and executives transform their businesses from the inside out, she joins Sharon to talk about the evolution of leadership, the importance of emotional intelligence, and how to stay grounded in your humanity while scaling your dreams.
https://katieclose.com/
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56. Grace at the End: Lessons on Love, Loss, and Letting Go
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Hospice work isn’t about dying—it’s about living with grace. In this powerful episode, Sharon talks with Carla Armstrong, Director of Philanthropy at Gulfside Hospice, about what it truly means to show up for others at the most tender moments of life. They discuss generosity, grief, and the surprising joy that emerges when we stop fearing the end and start embracing connection.
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55. The Power of Permanence: Love, Loss, and the Fight for Every Child
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In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Sharon sits down with Connie Going, a nationally recognized advocate, adoption expert, and tireless voice for children in the foster care system.
With more than 40 years in social work—and as an adoptive mom herself—Connie has witnessed the heartbreak, beauty, and resilience that come with finding “forever homes.” From the trenches of child welfare to national media spotlights like The View, Oprah’s O Magazine, and CBS On the Road with Steve Hartman, Connie’s mission has remained the same: to make sure ev...
54. Beyond Weight Loss: Healing, Strength & Innovation with RX Clinic
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In this powerful episode of Joy of the Hang, Sharon welcomes Elle McComb and Michelle Burnett of RX Weight Loss Clinic for a conversation that blends science, healing, and hope. Together, they explore today’s most innovative treatments—like EmSculpt for muscle toning, EmSella for core and pelvic health, and cutting-edge peptides—alongside practical approaches to weight loss and wellness.
But this episode goes deeper than medical solutions. Elle and Michelle also open up about divorce, resilience, and the healing process—remindin...
53. League of Angels: Baseball, Belonging, and Dreams Fulfilled
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In this inspiring episode of Joy of the Hang, Sharon sits down with Sean Croker and Tanner Kim of League of Angels—the world’s only undefeated baseball team. But this isn’t just about wins and losses; it’s about transforming lives. League of Angels is dedicated to giving people with special needs the chance to experience the joy of playing baseball, fulfilling lifelong dreams that might not otherwise be possible. Together, we explore the power of sports to build belonging, create community, and remind us that joy is often found in the simp...
52. Burnout to Breakthrough: Executive Wellness with Linda Mullins
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In this episode, executive coach and Luxury Executive Wellness founder Linda Mullins shares how a 2007 burnout and an immersive fitness retreat transformed her life—and inspired her to build personalized well-being retreats, executive offsites, and board retreats that actually move the needle. We dig into root-cause coaching, trauma-informed leadership, and practical ways high performers can release what no longer serves them, regulate stress, and rebuild energy without sacrificing impact. If you’re leading a team (or leading yourself) through overwhelm, this one’s your blueprint for sustainable succes...
51. Wine, Words & Winning Connections with Ryan O’Malley
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In this episode of Joy of the Hang, host Sharon Stevenson welcomes Ryan O’Malley—wine sales rep, storyteller, and fellow podcaster. Ryan believes wine is more than what’s in the glass—it’s a catalyst for connection, laughter, and lasting memories. From building a career in wine sales to writing his book The Girls and the Grapevine and hosting Hot Sex and Cold Champagne, Ryan shares how every pour opens the door to deeper conversations and meaningful relationships.
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50: Meditation, Mindfulness & Manifesting Joy with My Bestie, Maria Richardson
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To celebrate 50 episodes of Joy of the Hang, I’m joined by my best friend, Maria Richardson, for a conversation filled with laughter, reflection, and wisdom. Together we dive into meditation, mindfulness, and manifesting joy — and how these practices have carried us through both the messes and the milestones of life. This heartfelt episode is a celebration of friendship, resilience, and the power of connection.
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49. Look Your Best, Feel Fabulous with Vintage Fashion
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After a 30-year career dedicated to caring for seniors, Toni Sexton has embraced her passion for fashion as the creator of VintageLuxe. Specializing in vintage fashion, modern styling, and statement pieces, Toni blends timeless classics with fresh, contemporary trends to design looks that stand out. Whether you’re searching for a unique vintage piece, a head-turning modern outfit, or the perfect fashion statement accessory, Toni helps clients create their personal WOW moment. With VintageLuxe, she proves that true style is about confidence, individuality, and finding th...
48. Guarding Hope: Melissa Howard on Foster Care, Adoption & Becoming a GAL
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In this episode of Joy of the Hang, Sharon Stevenson sits down with Melissa Howard, a passionate Guardian ad Litem from Sarasota, to explore the guts and grace of the foster care system. Melissa breaks down what it means to be a voice for at-risk youth, the realities of foster parenting, and how compassionate community action can change lives. Whether you’ve considered becoming a GAL, fostering, or simply want to support a vulnerable child—you’ll leave this conversation enlightened, empowered, and ready to make a difference.
Saraso...
47. Bars to Jars: Joe Gallagher Jr. on Addiction, Faith, and the Long Road Back
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In this episode of Joy of the Hang, Sharon Stevenson sits down with Joe Gallagher Jr., author of Bars to Jars. Joe opens up about his battle with addiction, the consequences that landed him behind bars, and the faith and redemption that helped him rebuild his life.
It’s a raw and hopeful conversation about rock-bottom moments, second chances, and the power of community when willpower isn’t enough. Whether you’ve walked this road yourself or love someone who has, Joe’s story will leave you encouraged, challenged, and remi...
46. Sudden Heart Attack at 32. What you need to know…
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At just 32 years old, Ethan Crosson—a former collegiate athlete in peak physical shape—suffered a massive heart attack that left him flatlining in the back of an ambulance. No warning signs. No family history. Just a 100% blockage that changed his life in an instant.
In this powerful and poignant episode of Joy of the Hang, Ethan shares his story of survival, the guardian angel who helped save him, and how the experience reshaped his understanding of health, purpose, and what really matters. We dive into the silent risks men often over...
45. Lexie Stevenson: From Daytime Drama to Cowboy Dreams
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She stole hearts as Maddie Ashby on The Young and the Restless—but Lexie Stevenson’s story is just getting started. On this episode of Joy of the Hang, Sharon sits down with the actress, singer, and fierce advocate to talk about her incredible journey from small-town Maine to Hollywood and now Nashville.
Lexie opens up about what it was like growing up biracial in a rural community, the challenges of the entertainment industry, and how she’s using her voice to make a difference as Chairw...
44. Hidden in Plain Sight: The Fight Against Human Trafficking
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In this episode of Joy of the Hang, we sit down with a guest who—though choosing to remain anonymous—has made it their mission to shine a light on one of the darkest issues facing our communities: human trafficking.
Together, we unpack the myths, misconceptions, and hidden realities of trafficking today. From how traffickers operate to the vulnerable populations most at risk, this conversation reveals just how close this issue hits to home—including right here in Florida.
Our guest shares the signs to watch for, how everyday people...
43. Luxury Event Planner NYC | Adrianne Mellen of Tailored By Propeller
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For those who believe every gathering should be an experience, Adrianne Mellen delivers. As the visionary luxury event planner in NYC and founder of Tailored By Propeller, she curates high-end events, bespoke experiences, and unforgettable celebrations where elegance meets innovation. With a background in precision planning and an eye for luxury event design, Adrianne transforms concepts into flawless, one-of-a-kind occasions.
In this episode, she also invites listeners to experience one of the most iconic events of the year—New York Fashion Week, taking pl...
