Core Brands is a podcast that dives into branding, entrepreneurship, and the journey of building impactful businesses. Hosted by Roberta, a brand strategist and...
Signs, Energy, and Healing: Talking about Grief and Growth with Michelle Lacey
In this episode of the Core Brands Podcast, Roberta speaks with Michelle Lacey about her transformative journey from being a Montessori teacher to embracing holistic therapy. They discuss the profound impact of grief on personal growth, the healing power of Reiki, and the signs of connection that can be felt after losing loved ones. Michelle shares her experiences with grief, the lessons learned, and how she found her purpose in helping others heal emotionally and spiritually. In this conversation, Michelle and Roberta explore the themes of signs from the universe, energy healing, and the power of manifestation through vision boards. They discuss personal experiences with receiving signs, the importance of intention in energy work, and the transformative nature of group workshops. Michelle shares insights into her healing practices and upcoming plans for retreats, emphasizing the significance of self-care and personal growth.
Takeaways
Michelle's biggest fear is heights, yet she once jumped out of an airplane.
Grief can bring up old emotions and unresolved issues.
Traveling was a way for Michelle to escape her grief, but it didn't solve her problems.
Reiki was a turning point in Michelle's healing journey.
Grief can be a teacher, prompting deeper reflections on life.
Finding signs from loved ones can provide comfort and connection.
The healing journey is unique for everyone and can be uncomfortable.
Awareness of one's emotional state is crucial for healing.
Michelle emphasizes the importance of self-healing and energy work.
Life is short, and it's important to live in a way that honors lost loved ones. Seeing signs from the universe can provide comfort and guidance.
Energy healing can be effective even in online sessions.
Group workshops amplify healing energy and foster connections.
Vision boards help focus on what you want in life.
Manifestation requires an open mind and heart.
Intention is key in energy work and healing practices.
Self-care is essential for supporting others.
The full moon and new moon have unique energies for reflection and intention setting.
Healing can involve forgiveness and inner child work.
Future plans include more workshops and a potential retreat.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Icebreaker
11:56 The Impact of Grief on Personal Growth
18:03 Finding Signs and Connection After Loss
24:38 Signs from the Universe
31:49 Workshops and Group Healing
39:59 Vision Boards and Manifestation
Stay Connected with Michelle Lacey:
Connect on Instagram
Learn more at her website: michellelacey.energy
Stay connected with Roberta:
Follow on Instagram: @designbyroberta and @corenanfformdesign
Connect on LinkedIn
Subscribe to the Core Letters newsletter for updates
Visit the Core Brands website
Book a Free Discovery Call if you're interested in collaborating!
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48:36
How I Started My Podcast: Tools, Process, and Tips!
In this episode of the Core Brands Podcast, Roberta takes you behind the scenes of how she launched her podcast, sharing her simple and manageable process. From planning and recording to editing and publishing, she breaks it all down so you can see how it’s possible to start your own podcast—even with a busy life as a designer, mom, and business owner.
Check the tools used and mentioned on the episode:
Recording and Magic clips: Riverside
Project Management: Dubsado
Editing episodes: Premiere Pro
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
• The planning process: How to outline topics, schedule episodes, and invite guests.
• Recording tools and equipment: Roberta keeps it simple with a Blue Yeti microphone, Google Docs, and Riverside for intuitive recording and editing.
• Editing and publishing: Why templates and tools like Premiere Pro and Spotify Creators make the process easier.
• Promotion and guest collaboration: Using clips from guest episodes to boost reach and engagement on social media.
• Key takeaways for keeping your podcast low-stress, fun, and rewarding.
Takeaways:
• Start simple: Use tools and equipment that fit your budget and skills.
• Plan ahead: Create lists of topics and guests to stay organized and consistent.
• Automate when possible: Tools like Riverside’s “Magic Clips” make editing and social media sharing easier.
• Collaborate with guests: Share clips and promote episodes together for mutual growth.
• Have fun: Focus on enjoying the process and connecting with your audience.
Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction: Inspiration Behind the Podcast
02:00 - Planning Episodes and Inviting Guests
03:30 - Preparing for Guest Recordings
05:00 - Tools and Equipment for Recording and Editing
07:00 - Publishing and Distributing Episodes
08:30 - Promoting the Podcast and Engaging with Guests
Big Shoutout To: Abby from Wayfarer Design Studio for her valuable tips and inspiration.
Stay Connected with Roberta:
Follow on Instagram & TikTok: @designbyroberta and @coreandformdesign and @thecoremakers
Subscribe to the Core Letters Newsletter for updates.
Visit the Core Brands Website.
Book a Free Discovery Call to collaborate!
Join the Conversation:
Thinking of starting your own podcast? Roberta would love to hear from you! Share your thoughts, questions, or tips by sending her a message or tagging her on Instagram.
Tune in next week for another episode of the Core Brands Podcast!
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9:49
Creating Joy at Work and Building a Better Workday with Niamh Moynihan
In this episode of the Core Brands podcast, host Roberta chats with Niamh Moynihan, founder of Better Workday. They discuss Niamh's journey from a corporate career to entrepreneurship, the challenges of balancing work and family life, and the importance of tracking time for productivity. Niamh shares her insights on hustle culture, transitioning to a limited company, and building a flexible team. The conversation concludes with practical tips for creating a better workday and Niamh's future plans for her business.
Takeaways
Niamh's journey to entrepreneurship was fueled by her desire to help others succeed in their careers.
Balance in life is a dynamic process, not a fixed state.
It's important to focus on small moments that create a positive ripple effect for future generations.
Hustle culture can lead to burnout; intentional work is key.
Tracking hours can provide valuable insights into productivity and time management.
Transitioning to a limited company can simplify financial management.
Building a flexible team allows for adaptability and support in business.
Focusing on refining existing offerings can lead to greater success than constant expansion.
Practical tips can enhance daily work experiences and overall joy in work.
Embracing the good days and accepting the challenging ones is essential for a fulfilling work life.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Icebreaker
06:09 Balancing Work and Family Life
12:03 Navigating Hustle Culture
17:47 Building a Flexible Team
24:49 Practical Tips for a Better Workday
Stay Connected with Niamh Moynihan:
Connect with Niamh on Linkedin
Follow Niamh on Instagram and TikTok: @abetterworkday
Learn more at her website:
abetterworkday.com
Stay connected with Roberta:
Follow on Instagram: @designbyroberta and @corenanfformdesign
Connect on LinkedIn
Subscribe to the Core Letters newsletter for updates
Visit the Core Brands website
Book a Free Discovery Call if you're interested in collaborating!
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29:04
2024 Year in Review: Highlights, Challenges, and Intentions for 2025
In this solo episode, Roberta reflects on her experiences in 2024, sharing both the highlights and challenges she faced. She discusses her personal and professional growth, including networking successes, a rebranding journey, and the importance of maintaining boundaries. Despite encountering difficulties, such as project delays and a troubling personal experience, Roberta emphasises gratitude for the positive aspects of her year and outlines her intentions for 2025, focusing on health, creativity, and connection.
Takeaways
Reflecting on the past year is essential for growth.
Networking can lead to unexpected opportunities.
Rebranding can rejuvenate a business and its direction.
Challenges often come with valuable lessons.
Maintaining boundaries is crucial for personal well-being.
It's important to acknowledge both good and bad experiences.
Gratitude can help shift focus from struggles to achievements.
Personal health and fitness can improve overall happiness.
Creative expression is vital for personal fulfillment.
Setting intentions for the new year can guide future actions titles
Stay connected with Roberta:
Follow on Instagram: @designbyroberta and @corenandformdesign
Connect on LinkedIn
Subscribe to the Core Letters newsletter for updates
Visit the Core Brands website
Book a Free Discovery Call if you're interested in collaborating!
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18:47
The Nightmare Client: Red Flags, Communication and Lessons Learned.
In this episode, host Roberta shares her experience with a nightmare client, detailing the red flags she encountered, the communication breakdowns that led to project delays, and the emotional toll it took on her. She emphasizes the importance of having a contract, recognizing red flags, and maintaining boundaries in client relationships. Roberta also highlights the support she received from her network and offers advice on how to handle difficult clients in the future.
Takeaways
You're not alone in facing difficult clients.
Always have a signed contract before starting work.
Trust your intuition and recognize red flags early.
Communication should be clear and agreed upon.
Timely feedback is crucial for project success.
Volunteering personal time can lead to misunderstandings.
Emotional responses can cloud professional judgment.
Seek support from your network during tough times.
Set clear boundaries and stick to them.
Learn from negative experiences to improve future client relationships.
Chapters00:00 - Introduction to the Nightmare Client Story
02:53 - Identifying Red Flags in Client Relationships
06:09 - Communication Breakdowns and Project Delays
08:54 - Confrontation and Emotional Impact
12:00 - Lessons Learned and Moving Forward14:57 - Support Systems and Setting Boundaries Big shout out to Network Ireland Dublin for their friendship and support 👯 Stay connected with Roberta:
Follow on Instagram: @designbyroberta and @corenandformdesign
Connect on LinkedIn
Subscribe to the Core Letters newsletter for updates
Visit the Core Brands website
Book a Free Discovery Call if you're interested in collaborating!
Core Brands is a podcast that dives into branding, entrepreneurship, and the journey of building impactful businesses. Hosted by Roberta, a brand strategist and designer, the show features candid conversations with inspiring entrepreneurs who’ve built their brands from the ground up. Roberta also shares solo episodes with insights on brand strategy, personal growth, and business tips. Tune in every two weeks for real stories, practical advice, and actionable strategies to help you build your own brand.
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