Evolving Boundaries: Dana Castro on New Beginnings and Authentic Connections. {161}

Welcome to another episode of The Rainy Day Collective! Today, we're honored to have Stephanie, a Brooklyn-based aura photographer, join us for an enlightening conversation. We'll dive into the heartwarming and often challenging experience of caring for hospice animals, explore personal interests like astrology, and discuss the transformative power of self-love and kindness. We'll delve deep into the fascinating world of aura photography, learning about its history, its skeptics, and how it can reflect our inner energy. Our conversation will take a historical turn as we uncover the lost wisdom of women healers and how societal shifts have affected their roles and rights. We'll touch on the broad acceptance and empowerment found within the witchy community, a place where non-binary, trans, and LGBTQ+ individuals can find support and healing. Stephanie will share her journey with aura photography, how this captivating practice can reveal fluctuating energies and her openness to testing new technological advancements. Whether we’re discussing nurturing senior pets like Stephanie’s beloved Willow, diving into alternative healing practices, or examining the societal and historical perceptions of femininity and spirituality, this episode promises a rich and thought-provoking dialogue. So, sit back, relax, and join us on The Rainy Day Collective as we explore how kindness, self-reflection, and openness to new ideas can lead to personal and communal healing. Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe to The Rainy Day Collective on your favorite podcast platform, and follow Misty on Instagram and her website for more insights. Let's get started! Important Links: Twelve Month Aura Instagram Rainy Day In May Grit + Grace by Angela Devlen --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/rainydaycollective/support

Welcome to another heartfelt episode of The Rainy Day Collective Podcast. I'm your host, Misty, and today we have a truly special conversation lined up for you. Joining us is the talented author Jocelyn Jane Cox, who's here to talk about her forthcoming memoir, "Motion Dazzle." We'll dive into Jocelyn's inspiring journey as a writer, from her MFA in fiction to her poignant experiences with motherhood and loss, including the heart-wrenching day she lost her mother on her son's first birthday. Together, we explore the often misunderstood world of figure skating and share our thoughts on its portrayal in media. We'll touch on the critical role of sharing authentic stories to build empathy and understanding among women. Both Jocelyn and I open up about the difficult yet transformative process of caring for a parent with dementia, the profound grief it brings, and the complex emotions woven into these experiences. Whether you’re dealing with similar challenges or simply seeking a bit of empathetic connection, this episode promises to be both enlightening and comforting. Join us as we celebrate the resilience found in life's toughest moments, the importance of diverse experiences for our children, and the sometimes messy, yet beautiful, journey of parenthood and caregiving. Don’t forget to hit that subscribe button and leave us a rating and review to support our community. Let's dive in! Important Links: Sportsing Jocelyn's Twitter Jocelyn's Instagram Jocelyn's Website Grit + Grace Rainy Day in May --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/rainydaycollective/support

Welcome to another enlightening episode of The Rainy Day Collective! In today’s conversation, host Misty is joined by Dana Castro, an accomplished brand and product photographer. Together, they dive into the complexities of personal growth, the challenges of establishing new boundaries, and the rejuvenating power of stepping outside comfort zones. Dana shares her journey of starting her own business and the pride that comes with surviving the hurdles of 2020. They explore the ongoing evolution of authenticity and branding in the digital age, particularly for women in business, and discuss the impact of connecting with others both online and offline. From discussing the therapeutic last minutes of a photoshoot to the realities of maintaining activism without burnout, this episode is packed with insights on personal and professional resilience. So tune in, as Dana and Misty navigate the blurred lines between personal values and professional demands in times of constant change. IMPORTANT LINKS: Three Crowns Branding Dana's Instagram Rainy Day Collective Podcast Rainy Day in May #Photography #Branding #Entrepreneurship #Podcasting #TheRainyDayCollective #PersonalGrowth #ProfessionalGrowth --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/rainydaycollective/support

Welcome back to the Rainy Day Collective! In today’s episode, Misty sits down with the wonderfully talented author Neely Tubati Alexander. Neely has captivated audiences with her women's fiction and rom-coms, receiving accolades from Cosmopolitan, Elle, and her award-winning novel, "Lovebuzz." Today, we'll hear about Neely’s journey as an author—the inspirations behind her beloved storylines, the ongoing pursuit of achievement, and what it truly means to find success and balance in the erratic world of publishing. We’ll also dive into her personal life, exploring the challenges and triumphs she faces as a writer, mother, and wife. Whether you’re a fan of her books or just love a good behind-the-scenes peek into the literary world, this episode promises rich insights into the life of a celebrated author. So grab your favorite drink, settle in, and let’s get to know Neely Tubati Alexander. Don't forget to follow us on social media and leave a review on your preferred podcast platform. Let’s get started! IMPORTANT LINKS: Neely's Instagram Love Buzz In a Not So Perfect World Rainy Day Collective Website Rainy Day in May #RainyDayCollective #WomenWriters #AuthorLife #WritingCommunity #LiteratureLovers #RomCom --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/rainydaycollective/support

Join host Misty and this week's guest Amanda as they delve into a heartening conversation on the state of homelessness, mental health, and the systemic challenges that hinder progress. With Amanda's deep experience in education, street outreach, and comprehensive care management, this episode promises insights drawn from the front lines of social support services. 🎙️ Episode Highlights: - Amanda's journey from education to a cross-sector role partnering with insurance companies is a testament to the power of skill diversification in addressing complex societal issues. - Learn about the groundbreaking approach to care management, which involves integrating legal, mental, and medical support for the most vulnerable populations. - The discussion sheds light on the harsh realities faced by the unhoused, the stigma surrounding mental health treatment, and the small but powerful acts that can foster a more inclusive community. 🌟 3 Key Takeaways: - *Stigma & Outreach:* Understanding the stigma around mental health is crucial for effective outreach programs and the promotion of compassionate care for all. - *Holistic Support Models:* The future of social work lies in creating multidisciplinary teams and centers that offer all-encompassing resources, addressing individuals’ varied needs under one roof. - *Human Connection & Compassion:* Recognizing and treating the unhoused with compassion, respecting their humanity through simple gestures, holds the power to reshape societal views and interactions. Don't miss this insightful episode of The Rainy Day Collective where heartfelt stories, professional journeys, and the significance of empathy in creating systemic change are woven together. Tune in, be inspired, and join the conversation on supporting a healthier, more inclusive community. 🌧️ Listen, share, and support The Rainy Day Collective. Your ratings and reviews will help this essential message reach a wider audience! #TheRainyDayCollective #Podcast #SocialImpact #Homelessness #MentalHealthAwareness #CommunitySupport #EmpathyInAction Important Links: Amanda's Instagram Grit and Grace by Angela Devlen --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/rainydaycollective/support

Welcome back to another inspiring episode of the Rainy Day Collective Podcast, fellow dreamers and change-makers! This week, we delve deep with Brusha, whose journey of self-discovery and empowerment teaches us the immeasurable value of community support, self-love, and resilience. We perfectly captured the essence of what it means to nurture one's growth, highlighting the pivotal role of stepping up as a community. Brusha's evolution from someone seeking acceptance to a beacon of hope and strength for others is a testament to the transformation that's possible when we channel our struggles into fuel for our aspirations. Buckle up as we explore these heartfelt stories, reminding us all that with compassion, courage, and a little push from those who believe in us, we too can thrive against all odds. Tune in, get inspired, and remember to nurture the seeds of potential within you. Join us on The Rainy Day Collective– where every story matters and every dream counts. Links: Labyrinth Made Goods (IG) Grit and Grace by Angela Devlen #CommunitySupport #PersonalGrowth #ArtHeals #PodcastLife #InspirationalStories #Empowerment --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/rainydaycollective/support

Our guest today is Olivia Rhodes! Olivia Rhodes is from New England, currently located inMassachusetts. An avid Anglophile, she is married to an Englishman(who would probably interject here from the next room that he'shalf-English, half-German) and they have two bairns, M & R.She has her MA in European History from Royal Holloway, University ofLondon, and her BA in History & International Studies from RogerWilliams University.A life-long writer and reader of fiction, fantasy, magical realism,and historical fiction, Olivia has always had what her teachersreferred to as an "overactive imagination."She spent the majority of her teen and young adult years roleplayingwith close friends online, inspired by countless magical worlds andworld history. She is currently working on her debut novel- the firstin a trilogy." Olivia is sharing about her childhood dancing as a Ballerina. As an adult she's come full circle and gone back to Ballet, realizing it's once again a dream she has. I LOVE her story!!!! Important Links: Olivia's Instagram Olivia's Author Facebook page ⁠Mae Wagner website⁠ Mae Wagner ⁠Love Note Sign Up⁠ ⁠Umbrella Patreon Community ⁠ #chasingdreams #dreamersanddoers #ballet #ballerina #author #podcastsforwomen --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/rainydaycollective/support

My guest today is self-love coach Jenny Drake. Taking her own struggles and life lessons, she utilizes the beauty and wisdom she's gained to empower others! During our beautiful conversation, Jenny shared about the concept of self-rescuing, and how we could not live without self-connection! Important Links: Jenny Drake website Jenny Drake Instagram Mae Wagner website⁠ Mae Wagner ⁠Love Note Sign Up⁠ ⁠Umbrella Patreon Community ⁠ #selflove #lifecoach #podcastsforwomen #divorce #dreamersanddoers --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/rainydaycollective/support

Our guest today is Arika Cooknell, a bookworm, world traveler, incredible cookier, and owner of Tree City Cookie in Boise Idaho. It was a pleasure to chat with Arika and hear about the journey she pursued to get where she is today. Absolutely inspiring, beautiful, and relatable! Important Links: Arika's Amazing Cookie Instagram Tree City Cookie Website Painted Ladies Pastry Instagram The Cookie Virtuoso Instagram ⁠Mae Wagner website⁠ Mae Wagner ⁠Love Note Sign Up⁠ ⁠Umbrella Patreon Community ⁠ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/rainydaycollective/support

No stranger to the show, our very own Veronica is here! While she's been both a team member and a guest, were you aware that Veronica has a passion called Amazing Incredible Me (A.I.M.) Where she offers so much support to women? In today's episode, she's sharing more about that journey! Important Links: A.I.M. Veronica's Instagram ⁠Mae Wagner website⁠ Mae Wagner ⁠Love Note Sign Up⁠ ⁠Umbrella Patreon Community ⁠ #podcastsforwomen #amazingincredibleme #affirmingwomen #dreamersanddoers --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/rainydaycollective/support