Bloom Bright with Kelly

In this episode of Bloom Bright, Kelly sits down with Shannon Keating for a conversation about living with purpose in every season of life.Shannon shares her journey from growing up in a faith-filled, close-knit family to building a life centered around her own values of faith, family, and service. As a wife of nearly 25 years, a mom of four entering the almost–empty nest stage, a Physical Therapist, business owner, and health coach, Shannon opens up about what it really looks like to manage a full life with intention.Together, they talk about staying grounded when life is busy, prioritizing health after years of putting others first, trusting God in big decisions, and finding joy in both the everyday moments and the transitions that come with each new season.If you’re looking for encouragement to slow down, refocus, and live more intentionally, this episode will leave you feeling inspired to bloom bright right where you are.

In this episode, I sit down with Carmen Rivero, founder of People Living Healthy and a certified menopause specialist coach, to have a real, honest conversation about what’s actually going on during perimenopause. We’re breaking down the biggest myths, talking through the symptoms no one warns you about—from brain fog and anxiety to sleep and weight changes—and sharing what truly helps when it comes to feeling like yourself again.Carmen brings a unique perspective after spending over 20 years living an active, adventurous life in Southern Spain before returning to the Midwest and stepping into her “third chapter.” Together, we talk about how midlife isn’t something to dread—it’s an opportunity to reset, refocus, and redefine what you want moving forward.We also dive into manifesting your vision in midlife and why this phase of life can be one of the most powerful yet.

In this episode, Kevin joins me as we break down our trip to St. Barths—an island known for its yachts, celebrities, and major hype.We had been wanting to go for a while and finally decided to see for ourselves if it really lives up to everything you hear… and let’s just say, we have thoughts.We’re sharing everything you need to know—from how to get there and where to stay, to our favorite restaurants, beaches, shopping spots, and how to get around the island. Plus, we’re talking about what surprised us, what we loved, and what we’d do differently next time.If St. Barths is on your list—or you’re just curious what it’s actually like—this episode is your full, honest breakdown.

In this episode, I’m joined by Grace Rodi, Miss Illinois USA 2024, to talk about a world that so many people are curious about — pageants.   We’re breaking down the biggest myths and stereotypes around pageant culture, what it’s really like behind the scenes, and how competing shapes confidence, resilience, and the ability to walk into any room with presence. We also talk about the specific skills pageants teach — from interview prep to handling rejection — and how those lessons carry into real life, careers, and even experiences like sorority recruitment. If you’ve ever wondered what pageants are really like — or what they can teach you — this episode is for you.

In this episode, Kelly sits down with luxury travel advisor Sheila McNaughton of Elysian Travel. Before entering the travel industry, Sheila worked as a television producer, including time with The Oprah Winfrey Show, and today she brings that storytelling mindset to designing unforgettable travel experiences for her clients.Kelly and Sheila talk about how great trips are really planned, travel trends she’s loving right now, and simple tips to make your next vacation more seamless, meaningful, and memorable. Whether you're planning a big adventure or just dreaming about your next getaway, this episode is full of inspiration.

In this solo episode, I’m reflecting on everything season one of this podcast has taught me — from starting messy, to pushing through fear, to realizing just how powerful community really is. This season stretched me, surprised me, and helped me grow in ways I didn’t expect… and I’m sharing it all. If you’re in a season of growth, uncertainty, or starting something new, I hope this episode reminds you that you don’t have to have it all figured out to begin. Thank you for being here and for blooming bright with me.  

In this episode of Bloom Bright, Kelly sits down with Ashleigh Stuck, a recent college graduate navigating the exciting — and often overwhelming — transition into adulthood. From graduating high school at Lyons Township to attending Baylor University during the challenges of COVID, Ashleigh shares her honest journey of growth, faith, and self-discovery.Ashleigh reflects on trying new things, learning through failure, stepping into leadership, and staying rooted in her faith through seasons of uncertainty. Now back in Chicago and beginning her career, she opens up about friendships, identity, purpose, and what it means to trust God while figuring out what’s next.This episode is an encouraging listen for young women in the in-between season — learning to grow, trust the process, and bloom right where they are.

In this episode of Bloom Bright, I’m joined by Jennifer Steinhagen, the creator behind @bookandachai—a cozy corner of Instagram curating a reader’s lifestyle through books, slow moments, and intentional living.Jennifer and I talk about how reading became such a meaningful part of her identity, how @bookandachai came to life, and what it’s really like building a community in the online book world. We dive into her reading habits, how she manages to read so many books, and her tips for anyone who wants to make reading a bigger part of their life—without pressure or perfection.From favorite genres and unexpected five-star reads to the joy of sharing books online, this conversation feels like two friends settling in with a warm drink and a great stack of books.If you love books, cozy routines, and the idea that reading is more than just a hobby, this episode is for you.

In this episode, I’m joined by Mary Beth Joutras, the Chicago-based fashion blogger behind @mjstyle.me. Known for her classic yet on-trend style, Mary Beth shares how she mixes high and low fashion, builds wearable everyday outfits, and shops with intention for real life. We talk travel style, investment pieces, designer dupes, and simple ways to get dressed with confidence at any stage of life.  

In this episode, I’m joined by my husband, Kevin, for an honest and easy conversation about marriage, partnership, and growing together over time. We start with the story of how we met—and how we almost never saw each other again.From there, we talk about what we’ve learned along the way, where our strengths lie, where we still grow, and what it really looks like to support each other’s dreams behind the scenes—especially while building Bloom Bright.

In this episode, I’m sitting down with my dear friend Denise — an orthopedic surgeon and someone who’s been part of my life through many seasons. We talk about how we met, how our friendship has grown and stayed strong over the years, and the adventures we’ve shared along the way. Denise also shares what led her to orthopedics and her professional perspective on aging gracefully, staying active, and taking care of our bodies as we get older. It’s a conversation about friendship, movement, and showing up well for the lives we’re living now.  

In this episode, Kelly sits down with her friend Angie for an honest conversation about navigating change later in life. From making new friends as an adult to moving to a new community, juggling a full-time career, and guiding kids through the college transition, Angie shares thoughtful insights and encouragement for women stepping into new seasons. This episode is all about connection, courage, and blooming bright through life’s transitions.

In this special Christmas Eve episode, Kelly sits down with her dear friend Christine to celebrate friendship, shared travel adventures, and the joy of walking through life together. Christine shares the heart behind founding Together at Peace and the launch of the Comfort Club, a space created to offer comfort and connection. Cozy, honest, and full of heart, this episode is a reminder that friendship is one of the greatest gifts.  

In this episode, Kelly sits down with her dear friend Sarah for a heartfelt conversation about their friendship—from meeting in college to where they are today—along with motherhood, personal growth, and showing up authentically through seasons of change and connection.  

 In this holiday episode, my sister Shelly joins me to share traditions, favorite finds, and the stories that make this season special. Cozy, fun, and full of sister energy.  

Kelly sits down with her sister Shelly for a fun, honest conversation about sisterhood, motherhood, family traditions and growing up together. A light, heartwarming episode filled with laughs, memories, and real-life insights.

In this debut episode, Kelly shares the inspiration behind Bloom Bright—a movement created to encourage women to step into their best, boldest, and brightest selves. She opens up about the journey that led her to launch the brand, the mission behind the podcast, and what listeners can expect in future episodes. This heartfelt introduction sets the tone for a community rooted in growth, confidence, and blooming brighter together.