Living The Authentic Life

In this inspiring episode of Living the Authentic Life, we sit down with Lesha Elsenbrook, Chairman of Reflections on Style, and Captain Michelle Walker of The Salvation Army to talk about one of Houston’s most impactful fashion fundraisers.
For years, Reflections on Style—hosted by the Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary—has brought together fashion, philanthropy, and the Houston community to create real change. The event has now raised over $14 million to support vital Salvation Army programs, with more than $1 million raised in 2025 alone and $980,000 distributed directly into the community.
What makes this initiative so special is its hands-on approach. The organization doesn’t just write checks—they visit local programs, identify real needs, and fund solutions that directly impact lives. Just this year alone, those efforts helped provide permanent housing for 894 individuals in the Houston area.
We also preview the highly anticipated Chic Boutique, where fashion lovers can shop incredible designer finds while supporting a powerful cause. Expect racks filled with “new with tags” pieces, designer clothing, handbags, shoes, and accessories from brands including Valentino, Chanel, Oscar de la Renta & Dolce & Gabbana.
If you love fashion with purpose, this episode gives you a behind-the-scenes look at how style can truly change lives.
Important 2026 Dates:
• Donations Deadline: March 19, 2026
• Chic Boutique Opening Night: April 8, 2026 | 3 PM – 7 PM
• Public Showroom Sale: April 9–11, 2026 | 10 AM – 5 PM
You can support Reflections on Style 2026 by attending, sponsoring, or donating items.
Learn more at www.sawahouston.org and discover how style and service are transforming lives in Houston.

This week on Living the Authentic Life, we sit down with Jennifer Koller, an international University Admissions Counselor and Certified Coach helping students discover their purpose and find the right college fit. From Switzerland to the U.S., Jennifer shares insights on studying abroad, building authentic success, and guiding the next generation toward lives filled with curiosity, connection, and calling.
With degrees from Wellesley College and The London School of Economics, Jennifer now guides students applying to top universities in North America, the UK, and Europe — helping them find not just the right college, but the right fit for their future.
In this inspiring conversation, we explore:
✨ The growing trend of American students earning degrees abroad
🎓 How coaching can help college students discover their purpose and prepare for meaningful careers
🌎 The value of openness, curiosity, and connection in an increasingly global world
💡 Why commitment, leadership, and authenticity are at the heart of success
Jennifer brings her international experience and elegant poise to helping students and families navigate one of life’s most transformative chapters: education and purpose.
Through stories of perseverance, Jennifer shares thoughtful advice for parents — from starting early to keeping perspective on what really matters most. Tune in for an episode that blends intellect, heart, and authenticity — the perfect conversation for anyone helping the next generation build lives filled with curiosity, connection, and calling.
🔗 Learn more at www.youridealcollege.com

In this episode, we sit down with Jayne Johnston, Vice President of Patient Access at Memorial Hermann and the 2025 Chair of the Women’s Resource Power of the Purse event — a signature fundraiser supporting free financial education and career development programs for women and girls across Greater Houston.
Jayne brings her passion for purpose-driven leadership, her belief in community impact, and her personal journey balancing career, service, and motherhood. She shares how the Power of the Purse event isn’t just about luxury handbags — it’s about empowering women to take control of their finances, futures, and lives.
As we explore the intersection of calling, connection, and commitment. Jayne opens up about what drives her to lead, serve, and give back — and why authenticity, grit, and collaboration are at the heart of real change. We also discuss:
• Her leadership philosophy and community work

• What purpose means to her — and how to discover your own

• The life-changing work of The Women’s Resource

• Why supporting women creates stronger families and stronger communities

✨ Mark your calendars!
The 4th Annual Power of the Purse fundraiser happens on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, from 5:30–8:00 PM at The Revaire in Houston.
🎟️ Tickets start at $150 | Sponsorships from $500
💼 100% of proceeds fund free programs for women and girls in need.
🔗 Get involved: thewomensresource.org/2025-powerofthepurse
This episode is a reminder that when women rise, communities thrive. Tune in and get inspired to reflect, give back, and find your own “power of the purse.”

What does it really take to lead through discomfort, transform industries, and leave a lasting impact on your community? In this episode, we sit down with Alfred Lindseth, Principal of CI5O Advisory Services and former Fortune 100 executive, to explore the intersection of leadership, technology, and philanthropy.

Recognized as one of Time Iconic’s Top 10 Influential Business Leaders Transforming the Future in 2024, Al now invests in companies that not only generate returns but also make the world a better place—like AI-driven startups focused on early cancer detection.

Beyond the boardroom, Al’s passion for giving back is evident. From serving on the Houston Zoo’s board to championing Real Men Wear Pink for breast cancer awareness, he believes philanthropy teaches some of the most important lessons in leadership.

In this conversation, we cover:
• Why good leaders must embrace discomfort and sometimes “ruffle feathers”
• How philanthropy shapes better business leadership
• Cybersecurity tips every executive should know
• The role of AI in transforming industries—and even saving lives
• Why connection, purpose, and community are essential for living authentically

Al also shares personal insights (including what his wife calls his “look at me” trait 😂) and reminds us that commitment means doing what you said you would, long after the feeling has passed.

If you’re curious about innovation, leadership, and creating impact beyond the bottom line, this episode is packed with inspiration and wisdom.

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In this special live podcast recorded at our Fall Into Fashion charity event, we were honored to welcome Anne Neeson, Executive Vice President & CEO of the Memorial Hermann Foundation, and Caitlin McVey, MBA, RN, CPHQ, CLSSBB, Associate Vice President of the Memorial Hermann Institute for Nursing Excellence.
Anne shared an inspiring overview of Memorial Hermann’s mission and impact in our community, while Caitlin offered a powerful look into the Institute for Nursing Excellence—touching on scholarships, certification support, leadership training, and the innovative work being done to elevate nurses and advance patient care.
Together, their stories highlighted the vital role of philanthropy and nursing in shaping a healthier future for Houston and beyond.
Paired with a Fall/Holiday Fashion Presentation by designer Christy Lynn and an afternoon of shopping for a cause, this episode gives a peak inside a fabulous afternoon of wellness, fashion, and philanthropy at this memorable event.