Made For More Momcast

What if the answers to who you are are already hidden in your family’s past? In this episode of the Made for More Momcast, Shannon sits down with German genealogy expert and translator Katherine Schober to explore how discovering your family history can bring deeper meaning, connection, and clarity to your present life. Katherine specializes in German genealogy translation, helping individuals uncover and understand historical documents like letters, diaries, and records from Germany and surrounding regions. She not only translates these documents but also teaches others how to research their own ancestry, turning everyday people into family history detectives. Together, they discuss: How genealogy research can uncover powerful personal stories What it means to reconnect with your roots as a mom The emotional impact of reading your ancestors’ words for the first time How to begin exploring your own family history even if you don’t speak the language If you’ve ever been curious about your ancestry, German roots, or how family history shapes identity, this episode will leave you inspired to start digging into the stories that built you. Because you’re not just living a story… you’re part of a legacy. Find more from Katie at https://germanologyunlocked.com/

In this powerful episode of the Made for More Momcast, Shannon sits down with Cathy Olson, co-CEO of Funnel Gorgeous, to unpack the stories we’ve been told about ourselves and how they may be holding us back in business and life. From being told she wasn’t good with people or sales to becoming a sought-after marketing expert and entrepreneur, Cathy shares her journey from classically trained graphic designer to building one of the most recognizable brands in the online marketing space. Together, they dive into: How limiting beliefs shape your identity (and how to rewrite them) The truth about selling without feeling sleazy Using feminine design and visual storytelling to connect and convert Why creative entrepreneurs struggle with marketing and what to do instead Balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship in a way that works for you If you’re a creative business owner, mom entrepreneur, or handmade seller who’s ever felt like you’re “not good at sales” or unsure how to confidently show up, this episode will challenge that narrative and show you what’s truly possible. You’re not broken, you were just told the wrong story. Tune in to learn how to step into your calling, own your voice, and build a business that reflects who you really are. Find more from Cathy at https://www.instagram.com/funnelgorgeous/ and attend her FREE workshop https://www.fgfunnels.com/webinar-registration

What does it look like to build a business that is rooted in faith, meaningful connection, and authentic community? In this episode of the Made for Momcast, Shannon Parker shares her heart for helping women grow businesses and lives that are grounded in faith and real relationships. She opens up about why community matters so deeply for women in business and how intentional connection can transform both our work and our personal lives. Shannon talks about the powerful ways she cultivates community inside her membership app—through devotional book clubs, Bible study conversations, mentorship, and pairing women together for virtual coffee chats. These simple but intentional rhythms help women move beyond surface networking into genuine friendship and spiritual encouragement. You’ll also hear Shannon share how her perspective on faith in business has evolved. Rather than separating faith from entrepreneurship, she explains why our faith is meant to be the life source that fuels everything we build. In this encouraging conversation, we talk about: • Why faith is the foundation of a purpose-driven business • How authentic community strengthens women in entrepreneurship • The power of book clubs, devotionals, and shared spiritual growth • Creating spaces where women support, pray for, and encourage one another • Building friendships that go deeper than networking If you are a mom building a business and longing for deeper connection, encouragement, and faith-centered community, this episode will inspire you to build something that truly lasts.

What if you stopped thinking “mom or career” and started believing “mom and calling”? In this powerful episode of the Made for More Momcast, guest Megan Pyrah shares how embracing a “ yes, and” mindset transformed the way she approaches motherhood, business, creativity, and personal growth. Megan opens up about building a business and chasing creative dreams, all while being fully present as a mom. Instead of buying into the lie that women must choose between family and ambition, she challenges moms to redefine success on their own terms. This episode is for the mom who: Feels called to more but struggles with guilt Wants to start a business Is tired of the “either/or” narrative Is ready to grow through messy action and learn along the way Megan shares how failure, experimentation, and self-discovery helped her become more fully herself — not by doing everything perfectly, but by doing it bravely. She even walks listeners through a practical reflection exercise (so grab your pen and paper!) to help you uncover what your “and” could look like. If you’ve ever felt stuck between responsibility and creativity, this conversation will remind you: you were made for more and you don’t have to choose just one thing. 🎧 Tune in to discover: How to shift from an “or” mindset to an empowering “yes, and” mindset Why messy action leads to clarity and confidence How to balance motherhood and entrepreneurship The power of self-discovery through trying, failing, and refining Practical journaling prompts to uncover your next step This episode will leave you inspired to stop waiting, stop choosing, and start becoming more of who you were created to be. Find more from Megan at: https://www.instagram.com/heymsmegan/

What happens when you have 3 kids under 3, and you have to finish your masters in a matter of months or your academic dreams expire? Nicole McDonough shares her inspiring path through arts education, teaching underserved communities, earning her master’s in leadership, and ultimately building a coaching practice that helps leaders thrive with clarity, focus, and compassion. Nicole’s unique coaching style helps clients move through everyday stressors with insight and an open heart, so they can reach their full potential in every area of life. Through values assessments, personality frameworks, reflective listening and conflict resolution, clients who work with Nicole move through every day stressors with clarity, insight, and an open heart so they can reach their full potential in every area of life. Free Guide: Unlock Your Leadership Superpowers https://myleadershipsuperpowers.com/ Website: https://nicolemcdonoughcoaching.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/nicoledianemcdonough/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.mcdonough.925/ LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoledianemcdonough/

In this episode, Beverley Simpson shares her powerful journey from chasing a Broadway dream to building a meaningful career in fitness, and how body image, faith, and motherhood reshaped her definition of success. After moving from California to New York to pursue musical theater, Beverly believed changing her body would unlock the roles she wanted. That belief led her into the fitness industry, where she rose quickly into leadership as a district fitness manager in a male-dominated field—all while navigating marriage, motherhood, and the deep desire to leave a lasting legacy. Beverly opens up about: The truth about body image in musical theater Why Broadway wasn’t the end of her calling Leading as a woman in a male-dominated industry How faith and motherhood changed her career priorities What it really means to build a legacy beyond success This episode is for anyone wrestling with identity, purpose, career shifts, body image, faith, and family, and for women who know they’re called to more than applause, titles, or productivity. 🎙️ If you’ve ever wondered whether the dream you’re chasing is still the one you’re meant for, this conversation is for you. Find more from Beverley at https://bsimpsonfitness.com

What do you do when your body won’t cooperate, but your purpose still won’t quit? In this episode of the Made for More Momcast, Shannon sits down with Kari Poppleton, an inspiring entrepreneur who’s built a meaningful online business while working from bed most days. Kari shares how the internet gave her the freedom to keep using her gifts, support her family, and help other business owners become more confident, capable CEOs, even in seasons where life feels uncertain. Together, we talk about what it really looks like to do hard things when you don’t know what’s coming next… and why tracking your numbers matters more than your feelings on the hard days. Because momentum is built on truth and numbers don’t lie. You’ll walk away encouraged, grounded, and reminded that even when life is heavy, there’s still something you can do—and it can change everything. In this episode, we cover: Building a business in a hard season (and why it still counts) How online business can create real freedom for families Why your mindset matters but your metrics matter too “Numbers don’t lie”: what to track when you feel stuck or discouraged Being an example to your kids that hard things can still be done If you’ve been feeling limited, overwhelmed, or unsure what’s next, this conversation will give you hope, practical clarity, and the nudge to keep going… with truth you can measure. See how you can connect with Kari at https://www.karipoppleton.com/

In this episode, Shannon Marie Bennett sits down with MS health coach Alene Brennan to talk about the real-life path from an MS diagnosis to feeling empowered in your everyday healing habits. Alene shares why sustainable change starts with stability and consistency, and how to create a doable diet and lifestyle that fits the season you’re in—especially if you’re juggling motherhood, business, marriage, and still want a life (yes, travel and girls’ nights included). You’ll hear an honest conversation about letting go of perfection, building flexibility into your routines, and why “real world” habits are the ones that actually last. They also reflect on how a diagnosis can feel heavy at first, but over time can become a source of clarity, data-driven insight, and purpose—helping other women feel less alone and more equipped on their own health journey. In this episode, we cover: Why consistency matters more than perfection How to build sustainable healing habits as a busy mom Making nutrition and lifestyle changes that work in real life Turning a diagnosis into wisdom, resilience, and impact for others

What happens when a successful corporate strategist feels the pull toward something deeper, more meaningful, and more aligned with who she’s becoming, not just as a professional, but as a mom? In this inspiring episode of the Made for More Momcast, Shannon talks with Jen Wright, founder of Wellspired Co, about the courageous leap she took from a secure corporate career into the world of health and wellness coaching. Jen shares how her passion for supporting women ; especially moms, navigating pregnancy, maternity leave, and the transition back to work, eventually led her to become a nationally board-certified wellness coach and later a mentor to coaches building their own practices. Together, Shannon and Jen dive into: ✨ What it really feels like to leave corporate for a purpose-driven career ✨ How becoming a mom reshapes identity, confidence, and work-life expectations ✨ The surprising struggles women face returning to work after maternity leave ✨ Why entrepreneurship becomes the most intense personal development journey ✨ The life lessons our kids learn watching us chase our dreams ✨ How celebrations, gratitude, and vision strengthen your family culture If you’re a mom standing on the edge of a big career decision, feeling that tug toward something more meaningful or you're a coach craving clarity and confidence, this episode will remind you that you are absolutely Made for More.

In this inspiring episode of the Made for More Momcast, Shannon sits down with Ashley Ebert of The Abundance Group; a powerhouse coach, former wedding business owner, and fierce advocate for building a business that supports a freedom-centered life. Ashley opens up about the mistakes she made along the way, the lessons that shaped her leadership, and the journey that led to successfully exiting her wedding business. Known for her deep commitment to family, Ashley shares why she refuses to build a business that controls her time or pulls her away from the people who matter most. Instead, she teaches wedding pros how to create scalable systems that allow them to grow, thrive, and ultimately design a life where business serves their family—not the other way around. Whether you're a wedding planner, photographer, creative entrepreneur, or simply craving more freedom from your business, this conversation is packed with wisdom, honesty, and actionable insights. Tune in to learn how to build a business you're proud of, while being the mom you want to be raising kids, prepare for the next stage of growth, and move confidently toward a seven-figure exit with intention and heart.

In this episode of the Made for More Momcast, Shannon Marie Bennett sits down with Kerry Scardino, founder of Skinchanted, to explore how one mom turned her passion for holistic wellness into a thriving CBD and natural skincare brand. Kerry shares how her journey began with a mission to heal, both herself and others—through plant-based products that nurture the body and calm the mind. From overcoming doubt to learning the ropes of running a wellness business, Kerry opens up about balancing motherhood, mindfulness, and entrepreneurship with heart and hustle. Whether you're a mom dreaming of launching your own natural product line or simply curious about the growing world of CBD wellness, this conversation will leave you feeling inspired, grounded, and ready to grow naturally.

In this inspiring episode of the Made for More Momcast, host Shannon Marie Bennett sits down with powerhouse entrepreneur Julie Chenell — co-founder of Funnel Gorgeous and author of Million Dollar Grit. Julie opens up about what it really takes to grow a million-dollar brand as a mom, leader, and creative visionary. From single motherhood to scaling Funnel Gorgeous into a 7-figure digital marketing empire, Julie shares the unfiltered truth behind the grit that fueled her success. You’ll hear how she turned obstacles into opportunity, built a business rooted in purpose, and learned to balance faith, family, and fierce ambition. Together, Shannon and Julie unpack what it means to show up with courage, to build something that lasts, and to create impact without losing who you are in the process. ✨ In this episode, you’ll learn: How Million Dollar Grit was born and what it really means for women in business The mindset shifts that separate hobbyists from high-earning entrepreneurs Why Julie believes grit matters How to lead with integrity and authenticity in a noisy online world The secret to building a brand that’s both profitable and purpose-driven 📘 Grab Julie Chenell’s free book: Million Dollar Grit (Affiliate link — I may earn a small commission if you use my link, at no extra cost to you) 🎧 Listen to this empowering conversation on: Apple Podcasts • Spotify • Amazon Music • or wherever you tune in to your favorite shows. If you’ve ever wondered how to stay grounded while chasing big dreams, and staying steady in your faith along the way, this episode will leave you believing you’re truly made for more.

In this inspiring episode of the Made for More Momcast, host Shannon Marie Bennett sits down with Abby Springmann, a brand photographer, educator, and mom who turned her creative passion into a mission-driven business built on freedom, strategy, and family. Abby shares the heartfelt evolution of her photography journey, from documenting weddings filled with emotion to directing intentional brand stories that help entrepreneurs visually communicate their message. She opens up about how she discovered photography by accident in a college darkroom, fell in love with the process, and eventually built a thriving business that lets her merge art with marketing. But the story doesn’t stop there. Abby gets real about motherhood, boundaries, and redefining success after eight and a half years of infertility — a season that taught her what truly matters. With grace and gratitude, she reveals how waiting shaped her heart, her home, and her work, leading her to value both creative freedom and family flexibility. You’ll hear how Abby transitioned from nights and weekends shooting weddings to weekday work that allows her to homeschool with her husband, and still pursue her passion full-time. She shares how she and her husband built a life rooted in freedom, faith, and intentional boundaries—learning that being a good mom and a successful entrepreneur aren’t competing goals, they’re complementary callings. Abby also dives into: ✨ The key differences between wedding photography and brand photography (and why one is emotional while the other is strategic) ✨ How to translate intangible ideas into powerful, tangible visuals for marketing ✨ The freedom that comes with creating your own schedule and defining success on your own terms ✨ Why she believes creativity isn’t just about beauty — it’s about purpose ✨ What it means to “be where your feet are” as both a mom and business owner Whether you’re a creative entrepreneur, photographer, or mom balancing business and family, this episode will leave you inspired to design a life that reflects your values — not just your workload. Abby’s story is a reminder that you don’t have to choose between passion and presence, or between running a business and raising your kids. You can do both — beautifully. About Abby Springmann: Abby is a creative brand photographer, podcast host of The Artisan CEO, and educator for photographers who want to blend artistry with business strategy. She’s passionate about helping entrepreneurs tell their stories visually while keeping faith and family at the center of it all. Find her on Instagram @abbygracephoto .

In this episode of the Made for More Momcast, Shannon Marie Bennett sits down with online business trailblazer Alison J. Prince , a mom, mentor, and multi-million-dollar entrepreneur who built her empire from home with her kids by her side. Together, they get real about what it takes for moms in business to rise above the noise, build purpose-driven brands, and stay grounded while chasing big dreams. Alison shares how she turned her “Because I Can” mindset into a movement that empowers women in business everywhere to believe in themselves, take action, and learn exactly how to sell online with confidence. Shannon credits Alison’s teaching and expertise as the spark that started her own business journey, leading her to where she is today. Both women now share a deep appreciation for mentorship and continued growth, working alongside their own mentor, Julie Chenell, as they each continue to expand their influence, impact, and faith-filled businesses. Alison also opens up about motherhood along the way; the messy, magical balance between raising kids and running companies and how her definition of success has evolved. She reflects on the seasons of building her online empire and reveals where her heart (and business) are headed next as she focuses on deeper impact, freedom, and faith-driven purpose. If you’ve ever wondered whether you can run a successful business and still show up fully for your family, this episode will prove you can.

What does it really mean to be made for more? In this inspiring conversation, Shannon Marie Bennett sits down with marketing and retreat queen, creative powerhouse Amber Housley to talk about stepping into the life and business you were meant to create. Amber shares how to stop settling for “just okay,” trust the ideas placed on your heart, and turn them into meaningful action. Whether you’re a mom dreaming of launching something new, an entrepreneur ready to grow with purpose, or a woman craving more alignment and joy, this episode will remind you that your ideas exist for a reason and you’re fully capable of bringing them to life. Tune in to learn how to embrace your calling, build with confidence, and boldly create the life you’re meant to live.

What happens when creativity, inclusion, and community collide? In this inspiring episode of the Made for More Momcast, Shannon Marie Bennett sits down with Melissa Smith, founder of Backlight Productions, a nonprofit theater company empowering adults with disabilities to step into the spotlight, all while raising her two children side by side. Melissa shares how Backlight transforms lives by helping students unlock hidden strengths, experience joy, and shine on stage in ways that ripple far beyond the theater. From powerful performances to life changing friendships, you’ll hear how this nonprofit organization is rewriting the narrative of what’s possible for adults with special needs. Whether you’re a parent, creative entrepreneur, Broadway theater lover, or someone who believes in celebrating every ability, this conversation will leave you moved, hopeful, and ready to see people’s differences in a whole new light. Discover how Backlight Productions is proving that when joy leads the way, strengths always shine.

Step into the vibrant world of Wendy Conklin, founder of Chair Whimsy, where bold design meets fearless creativity. In this episode, Wendy shares how she turned her passion for color and storytelling into a thriving design brand that inspires thousands to embrace courage, beauty, and joy in their everyday spaces. From reupholstered chairs that spark conversation (hello Taylor Swift Collection) to her journey as an entrepreneur and teacher, Wendy reveals the mindset shifts and creative risks that transformed her life and business. Whether you’re a design lover, creative entrepreneur, or someone searching for the confidence to live more colorfully, Wendy’s story will leave you inspired to chase your own version of whimsy.

What if the right story could open doors, spark trust, and even sell without feeling salesy? In this episode of the Made for More Momcast, Shannon sits down with author and speaker coach Aurora Gregory to explore the power of storytelling that truly connects. Aurora reveals how to craft stories that don’t just inspire, but move people to action. Whether you’re pitching your product, sharing your brand, or simply wanting to speak with more confidence from a stage or a podcast mic, her practical tips will help you stand out, be remembered, and make an impact.

In this episode, I share the raw, behind-the-scenes story of the day I appeared on the national TV show The View. You’ll hear how I got the opportunity, what it was really like to prepare for live television, the emotions of representing my brand on a massive stage, and the unexpected moments you never see on camera. If you’ve ever dreamed of national media coverage for your business, this is your all-access pass to the process, the pressure, and the payoff.

In Part 2 of my NY Now Trade Show recap on Made for More Momcast, I’m sharing the results, takeaways, and unexpected moments from wrapping up my very first time as an exhibitor at this tradeshow. From following up with buyers and navigating wholesale conversations to the lessons I learned about making the most of every trade show opportunity, this episode is packed with insights for product-based business owners. If you’ve ever wondered whether NY Now is worth it, or how to turn trade show leads into long-term wholesale relationships, you’ll want to tune in.

In this episode of Made for More Momcast, I share the inside scoop on my very first time exhibiting at the NY Now Trade Show, one of the biggest wholesale gift and home market events in the country. From setting up our booth and networking with buyers to the surprises that happen when you put your brand in front of thousands, this is Part 1 of my unfiltered, behind-the-scenes recap. If you’ve ever thought about exhibiting at a trade show to grow your product-based business, you’ll want to hear these lessons, tips, and real-life moments.

In this episode of Made for More Momcast, I’m taking you behind the curtain to the day I pitched our brand to Shark Tank. From the adrenaline rush of walking into the room, to the unexpected curveballs, to the lessons I learned about pitching big ideas with confidence , you’ll get the unfiltered story. Whether you’re a fellow mompreneur, a product-based business owner, or just a Shark Tank superfan, this episode will inspire you to think bigger, push past fear, and show up boldly for your dreams.

Spending a week with my mastermind group changed the way I see my business and myself. In this episode, I’m sharing the breakthroughs, strategies, and mindset shifts that came from being surrounded by other driven entrepreneurs and community with Julie Chenell's Digital Insider's Mastermind. You’ll learn why every mompreneur should consider joining a mastermind, how to find the right one, and how to turn collaboration into real business growth. Whether you’re running a handmade product brand, a Made in USA business, or any online store, this episode will inspire you to think bigger and take bolder steps.

On the morning I was headed to pitch my business to Shark Tank, I never expected my biggest dose of motivation to come from a man standing in his boxers. In this episode, I share the hilarious and unforgettable story of that encounter and the powerful reminder it gave me about courage, confidence, and going after big opportunities. Whether you’re a mompreneur chasing a dream, preparing for a big pitch, or just needing a boost of inspiration, this episode proves motivation can show up anywhere.

Ever wondered what it’s really like to exhibit at a major trade show for the first time? In this episode, I’m sharing my behind-the-scenes experience from the Atlanta Market...the wins, the mistakes, and the lessons I’ll take into every future event. From prepping a booth to making connections with wholesale buyers, you’ll get practical tips for any product-based business looking to break into wholesale. Whether you sell handmade goods, Made in USA products, or run an e-commerce brand, this episode is packed with advice for mompreneurs ready to step into the trade show world.

In part two of my startup story, I share exactly how I scaled my mom-owned business from small batches at the kitchen table to shipping Made in USA products nationwide and beyond. You’ll learn the growth strategies that worked, the mistakes that almost stopped me, and how I built systems to balance business, motherhood and homeschool. Whether you’re ready to scale your handmade business or take your e-commerce brand to the next level, this episode is packed with real-world tips and inspiration for mompreneurs who are made for more.

Every big business starts with a single spark and mine began at my kitchen table. In this first part of my startup story, I’m sharing how I went from a mom with an idea to a mompreneur building a Made in USA product brand that now reaches customers nationwide. You’ll hear the messy beginnings, the lessons I wish I knew sooner, and the steps I took to turn passion into profit... all while balancing business, motherhood and homeschool. If you’re a mom dreaming of starting your own business, this is the real, behind-the-scenes story you need to hear.