Boss Babes of the Bluegrass

Anastasia Del Valle, district manager at Starbucks, shares about her dynamic career journey through organizations like Pandora Jewelry, Target, and the Georgetown/Scott County Chamber of Commerce, before landing her current leadership role at Starbucks. Anastasia shares insights into overcoming career setbacks, the importance of networking, and her approach to leadership that blends accountability, visibility, and genuine care for her team. The conversation highlights her personal growth in balancing direct communication with empathy, lessons learned from pivotal work experiences, and the value of integrating professional and family life. Recommended resources from the episode include Annie Duke's "Thinking in Bets" and works by David Sedaris for a mix of business acumen and humor. Connect with Anastasia on LinkedIn.

Dr. Crystal Miller discusses her journey into public health, the importance of direct leadership, and building emotionally intelligent workplace cultures. She shares how her background in education, mentorship, and a passion for continuous learning led her into public health and eventually executive coaching, emphasizing that healthy organizational cultures and emotional intelligence are at the core of successful teams. The conversation also highlights challenges in public health such as funding, community partnerships, and the hub role of health departments in addressing issues like housing and substance misuse. Dr. Crystal Miller gives practical advice for maintaining work-life harmony, mentoring young leaders, and the value of self-reflection and failure as feedback. Find her on Facebook, LinkedIn, or at Crystal Miller Coaching for more information.

Jimmie Wilson shares her inspiring journey from a career in early childhood education and workforce development to her recent experience surviving acute liver failure caused by a compounded medication, which led to a lifesaving transplant. Throughout the conversation, Jimmie discusses the challenges and lessons from her years working with disadvantaged youth, those in recovery, and her advocacy for patient safety following her health crisis . She highlights the launch of the JADA Foundation—Jimmie’s Awareness for Drug Advocacy—which provides support for transplant families and educates patients about medication safety. The episode also covers the push for “Jimmie’s Law,” aiming to strengthen patient protections around compounded medications. Listeners can connect with the JADA Foundation via Facebook, LinkedIn, and soon on other social platforms for resources and ways to help.

Shalanda Smith is a seasoned nurse, yoga instructor, and wellness advocate in Central Kentucky. Shalanda Smith shares her journey from 30 years in long-term care nursing to her current roles at Bluegrass Care Navigators’ Pace Center and as a yoga and Pilates teacher, emphasizing the importance of preventive health, community wellness, and self-care. The conversation explores shifts in healthcare, balancing work and personal life, the value of strong female networks like Women Who Thrive, and supportive reading recommendations like "Let Them" by Mel Robbins. Connect with her  859-693-3644, email ssmith4275@gmail.com, on Facebook or Instagram.

Stephanie Spires, CEO of Spires Strategies, shares about her journey in business, passion for advocating for children and families, and balancing life as a single mother of five. Stephanie shares insights on her unique business model that supports both families—especially executive mothers—and schools, her perspective on educational advocacy and trauma-informed practices, as well as her candidacy for LFUCG Council-At-Large. Topics include overcoming imposter syndrome, navigating the challenges of scaling a business, finding harmony amid chaos, the importance of community support in education, and her advice on embracing lifelong learning and resilience. Stephanie Spires welcomes listeners to reach out via her website, spirestrategies.com, campaign website stephaniespires.com, or social media for guidance or support.

Rachael Bullock is a longtime Mary Kay entrepreneur who discusses her journey of nearly 29 years in the beauty industry. Rachel shares how she empowers women through confidence-building with makeup, skincare, and entrepreneurship, highlighting the importance of personal relationships and adaptability, especially during challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic and her mother’s ALS diagnosis. In this episode, Kris & Rachael explore leadership strategies such as leveraging individual strengths, navigating work-life harmony, and the value of mentorship and resilience in business. Rachael also recommends key resources, including Mary Kay Ash’s autobiography and the book "Living Fearless" by Jamie Winship, as well as the podcast "How I Built This" for further inspiration. Reach Rachel Bullock on Instagram as @RBPink or through her Mary Kay website for personalized beauty tips.

Amanda Woods Hall is founder of The Executive Method, to explore how embracing your authentic self—and understanding the way your brain works—can transform your life and business. Amanda shared actionable strategies for overcoming procrastination, harmonizing the demands of home and career, and cultivating empathy as the heart of leadership. If you’re ready to ditch unrealistic productivity pressure and unlock systems tailored to your energy and goals, this is for you. Follow The Executive Method to discover more ways to thrive, on your terms.

Judge Lucy Van Meter shares her inspiring journey from Bourbon County High to becoming Fayette Circuit Court Judge and now running for Kentucky Court of Appeals. We talk about the challenges of making tough decisions, navigating a demanding legal career, and the importance of mentorship, self-care, and lifelong friendships. Judge Van Meter reminds us to embrace change and stay connected with our communities. If you’re looking for motivation and real-life wisdom, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.

Ann Marie Spoonamore is an inspiring biology teacher and assistant athletic director at Henry Clay High School. She shares her journey from student to educator, her passion for helping students both in and out of the classroom, and how she balances a busy career with family life. We dive into the changing landscape of education, the impact of AI in the classroom, and the importance of leading with kindness and authenticity. Tune in for motivation, practical wisdom, and a reminder that, no matter what, it’s all going to be okay.

Kris welcomes Keary Snapp to discuss her inspiring 20+ year journey in the health and wellness industry. Keary shares how her career evolved from personal training and figure competitions to massage therapy, functional wellness coaching, and life coaching. She talks about overcoming personal challenges including addiction and ADHD along the way. She highlights the importance of self-care, mindset, functional health approaches, and investing in oneself. Keary also discusses her involvement with charitable organizations like Natalie's Sisters and Baby Health Service, and her participation in Dancing with the Lexington Stars fundraiser, offering advice for young women in business and recommending inspirational books such as "A Crown That Lasts" by Demi Tebow and "Protect Your Peace" by Trent Shelton. Listeners are encouraged to support local causes and continue investing in their growth and wellbeing.