Beyond The Handshake

Meet Luba Patlakh speech language pathologist, founder of Kidology Inc., mom of three, and one of those women you meet and immediately think, we were supposed to connect. Luba’s journey is anything but traditional. She started in broadcast journalism at Good Morning America, made a bold pivot to follow her heart, and built a thriving pediatric therapy practice from the ground up — with no business plan, no investors, and no roadmap. Just a dream, a whole lot of grit, and an unwavering commitment to helping children and families find their voice.In this episode, Lucy and Luba dive into:•How Luba went from producing segments at Good Morning America to founding a pediatric practice that landed on the Inc. 5000 list.. as the only speech pathologist on it•Building Kidology Inc. from a one-woman show working out of her car and Starbucks to a 94-person team across two brick and mortar locations•What ABA therapy is, why it matters, and how Kidology serves children from birth to 21 across speech, OT, PT, and behavior services•The real talk on mom guilt, asking for help, and juggling it all without pretending balance is actually a thing•Why tracking your numbers and setting KPIs changed everything for her business growth•The advice she’d give any woman looking to scale her company•And what Beyond the Handshake means to someone whose entire business is built on connection and advocacyLuba is a connector, a bridge builder, and someone who leads with her whole heart. This one is warm, honest, and full of golden nuggets for any woman in business.Connect with Luba:•Instagram: @KidologyQueen | @KidologyInc•Website: kidology.com•Family advocacy & IEP support: lubapatlakh.comWomen Connect exists for exactly the kind of women Luba is talking about — ambitious, heart-centered, and ready to grow. Find an event near you at wearewomenconnect.com.

What if the biggest barrier between where you are and where you want to be… is the story you're telling yourself?In this episode of Beyond the Handshake, Lucy Miller sits down with executive coach Shea Smith of Novus Global to talk about the powerful concept of invisible potential and why even high-performing women often underestimate what they’re capable of achieving.Shea shares how shifting from a “high-performance” mindset to meta-performance can unlock new levels of growth, confidence, and fulfillment in business and life. Together, Lucy and Shea dive into topics like imposter syndrome, building confidence through integrity, and how crafting a compelling vision can energize your work and your leadership.Lucy also shares her personal experience working with Shea and the transformation it sparked while preparing for the Women Connect LIVE conference.This conversation is both practical and powerful offering mindset shifts and tools that any woman can begin using right away.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why your potential is mostly invisibleThe difference between setting goals and crafting a visionHow imposter syndrome shows up for high-achieving womenA simple way to build confidence through integrityWhy curiosity might be the most powerful mindset shift you can makeHow expanding your vision can impact your business, team, and lifeShea will also be leading a powerful workshop at the upcoming Women Connect Cultivate Retreat, helping attendees craft a vision that ignites energy and creates meaningful momentum.If you’ve ever felt like there’s more possible for you, this conversation will help you start seeing it.Want to stay connected with Shea?Here are a few ways to explore her work and continue the conversation:Free Chapter of Beyond High PerformanceA look at performance beyond pressure and hustle.https://lp.novus.global/sheasmithFree QuizIdentify what truly motivates you and how to leverage it in daily life.https://lp.novus.global/sheasmith-5iBook a call with Shea Connect with Shea to discuss challenges, create a thrilling vision and more!https://meetings.hubspot.com/shea-smith

A layoff, a nickname, and a decision to bet on courage—that’s how Misty Bolt became “Medicare Misty” and built a 50-agent, 45-state agency that puts advocacy first. We go deep on what it really takes to move from a safe paycheck to a mission-driven business with residual income, and why the most overlooked skill in growth is relentless follow-up that turns a handshake into a win-win partnership.Misty breaks down her client process for guiding seniors and families through the Medicare maze, from mapping meds and doctors to comparing benefits like dental, gym access, food cards, and prescription support. She explains how partnering with HR teams prevents retirees from being “thrown to the wolves,” and shares practical steps for training new agents: structured product learning, field days, seminar playbooks, and grassroots brand-building that still works in a noisy market.We also explore how she diversifies beyond insurance to reduce risk and expand impact—purchasing a commercial space to blend event venue, office rentals, and a future Airbnb; launching a thrift shop seeded with real inventory; and channeling profits into causes like senior housing support and AED placements in low-income communities. Her branding moves—private bus wraps, city buses, a sponsored cooking show, even a local race car—show how creative partnerships can lift others while amplifying your message.At the heart of it all is a story of faith, resilience, and ownership: if you feel capped, build your own ceiling. You’ll hear candid lessons on pricing your value, funding marketing sustainably, pre-selling new ventures, and keeping promises after the introduction. Ready to turn connections into momentum and momentum into impact? Press play, then subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a review to help more builders find us.To connect with Misty Bolt, visit her website at https://www.medicaremisty.com/

Entrepreneur, author, and mentor Kimmy Powell joins Beyond the Handshake to share how a 13-year-old coder became a multi-location owner of Woodhouse Spa. Kimmy walks us through her bold mid-life pivot at 45 from Ohio to the South Carolina coast and the gritty early years of franchising that taught her the power of hiring already-exceptional people, running companies on data (not just accounting), and adopting EOS to scale with consistency across luxury, high-touch experiences.We also dig into Kimmy’s philosophy of intentional time and energy: her “12-10-8-6-4” workweek cadence, graceful ways to say no, and why authenticity is the highest lever for results and relationships. If you’re contemplating a major career shift, opening a second location in another state, or simply craving more freedom and focus, this conversation delivers practical systems, mindset shifts, and memorable lines like “Data tells, stories sell.”  Tune in for a masterclass in pivoting with purpose—and designing success around what (and who) matters most.Woodhouse locations (today)Mount Pleasant, SCDowntown Charleston, SC Historic Charleston, SC at Wentworth MansionSavannah, GAFranklin, TNExpansion in process for another major southern cityFollow her Woodhouse Spa on Instagram-@woodhousechs @woodhousesavnnah@woodhousefranklinConnect with KimmyWebsite: kimmypowell.comSocial: @kimmykpowell (all platforms)Connect with Lucy / Beyond the HandshakeFollow: @connectedwithlucy • @womenconnectofficialLeave a rating & share this episode with a friend who’s considering a bold pivot.

In this powerful conversation, Lucy sits down with global visionary Tracy Litt to unpack what it really takes for high-achieving women to evolve without burning out. Tracy shares her transformation from single mom on food stamps to CEO of a seven-figure personal growth company and introduces The Choice Method®, a four-step, nervous-system-led framework for sustainable change. You’ll learn why “change happens at the speed of safety,” how to move from “I can’t” to “I won’t” (and finally get honest about what’s underneath), and why community is the medicine. Tracy also reframes fear as a faithful companion, not an enemy, and walks Lucy (and listeners) through a simple humming breath to regulate in under a minute. If you’re juggling family, business, and leadership...and you’re ready to let your highest self lead—this one’s a must-listen.Connect to Tracy and plug into working with her: https://www.theschoolofbecoming.com/THE KEY - Complimentary private podcast- https://www.theschoolofbecoming.com/the-keyThe Choice Method® - New offer for women leaders to easily get into the work - https://www.theschoolofbecoming.com/the-choice-methodInstagram- @thetracylittWe hope the takeaways from this episode are massive in taking next steps to overcome FEAR and become YOUR highest self. 

This episode of Beyond the Handshake, host Lucy Miller sits down with John Sharpe, CEO of Marvel HR, to unpack what it really takes to build—and evolve—an intentional company culture.What we explore:Culture as the foundation: Hear how John defines a strong company culture and why it's central to growth and retention. Learn how Marvel HR helps companies foster inclusive environments where people thrive.Grit + persistence: John shares insights on the resilience and leadership qualities required to nurture purpose‑driven organizations—even when growth strains systems and processesPeople‑first strategy: Discover how Marvel HR and its affiliate Staff Source support clients through tailored HR solutions—from compliance, payroll, benefits administration, to strategic recruitment and retention—empowering leaders to focus on culture and performancePeople problems as catalysts: We dive into why “people problems” can trigger essential change—and how strategic HR partnerships help businesses scale healthily, not just rapidly.Tune in to gain tactics and inspiration for staying human-centered while scaling your business effectively.Connect with Marvel HR:• Visit their website: marvelhr.com• Find them on LinkedIn: just search Marvel HR for updates on culture, HR best practices, and strategic growth insights.

Twin sisters. One vision. Multi-million-dollar growth.In this powerful episode of Beyond The Handshake, Lucy sits down with Mary Smiley Ford and Carla Pierson, twin sisters and co-founders of Smiley Aesthetics, one of the fastest-growing medical aesthetics companies in the region.What started as a mobile injector business has rapidly scaled into a multi-million-dollar med spa brand with over $3M in revenue—and they’re just getting started.We dive into:How they built a business from scratch while juggling family and careersThe challenges (and superpowers!) of being sisters and business partnersSmart decisions that fueled their rapid growthAdvice they’d give any woman stepping into entrepreneurship todayWhether you’re in beauty, business, or just love a good founder story—this episode is full of heart, hustle, and hard-earned wisdom.To learn more about Smiley Aesthetics, check out their website at https://smileyaesthetics.com/ to find a medspa near you! You can also follow them on IG with the following accounts:@smileyaesthetics_@injectorsmiley  @csmiley_business @the_businessofaesthetics 🎧 Listen now and get inspired by how two women built something beautiful—together.

In this episode of Beyond The Handshake, we sit down with Liza Graves, Founder and CEO of StyleBlueprint — the South’s premier digital lifestyle publication dedicated to uplifting women, spotlighting small businesses, and celebrating Southern culture.What started in 2009 as a passion project has grown into a digital platform that now reaches over 3 million readers annually. Liza shares her journey from café owner at age 25 to leading one of the South’s most influential women-owned media brands. From her roots in entrepreneurship to her role today as a mentor and leader, Liza gives us a behind-the-scenes look at how she built StyleBlueprint and what it truly takes to create meaningful content that connects with community.Hot Topics:- Building a brand rooted in values and vision- Supporting small businesses through digital storytelling- Creating hyperlocal content that resonates on a national scale- Running a woman-owned business in digital media- Work/Life Balance with dedicated time off Whether you're a business owner, creative, or a lover of all things Southern, this episode is packed with insights on branding, entrepreneurship, and the power of staying authentic.Listen now to get inspired by Liza’s story and learn how StyleBlueprint continues to amplify voices and businesses across the South.Explore more at StyleBlueprint.com

Beyond The Handshake with Heather Locke, Founder of Hammersmith Support.In this episode of Beyond The Handshake, we sit down with Heather Locke, the Founder and Chief Support Officer of Hammersmith Support, a web development and maintenance company dedicated to helping businesses create and maintain high-performing websites.  Heather’s journey is one of innovation, perseverance, and leadership in the ever-evolving world of tech. From launching her company in 2010 to growing a business that prioritizes long-term client relationships, she shares the challenges, successes, and lessons learned along the way.  If you’re an entrepreneur, business owner, or someone looking for insights into the world of business development, SEO, leading a team, or web development business growth this episode is packed with valuable takeaways.  Check out Hammersmith Support at https://hammersmithsupport.com/ and look for ways to work with them there! 

In this compelling episode of Beyond The Handshake, we sit down with Jessica Baladad, a six-year breast cancer survivor and the visionary founder of Feel For Your Life. Jessica transformed her personal battle with cancer into a mission to empower others through self-advocacy and innovative technology.Join us for an inspiring conversation that delves into resilience, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of better healthcare outcome.Listen now to be inspired and informed!To learn more and download the free app, visit her website at https://www.feelforyourlife.com/. You can also follow Jessica on Instagram and Linked In. 

Have you ever envisioned starting a non-profit to champion a cause close to your heart?In this episode of Beyond The Handshake, we sit down with Jamie Heard, Executive Director of Faithfully Restored, a non-profit dedicated to uplifting women through care, encouragement, and community. Born from personal experiences of hardship and loss, Jamie and her co-founders established an organization that began locally and now extends its support to women nationwide.Tune in to discover:- The inspiration behind Faithfully Restored's inception- Challenges faced during the early stages- Valuable lessons learned along the way- Strategies for maintaining mission focus amidst adversityTheir journey of faith and commitment to following God's plan is truly inspiring.To support Faithfully Restored—whether through financial contributions, donations, sponsorships, or volunteering—visit their website at www.faithfullyrestoredwomen.com.

In this inspiring episode of Beyond The Handshake, host Lucy Miller sits down with Tammie Osborne, a seasoned entrepreneur and founder of The Sapphire Suite, a thriving co-working and event space designed exclusively for women.  Motivated by the isolation many experienced during the pandemic, Tammie envisioned a space where women could not only work but connect, collaborate, and grow together. With a background in leading a successful IT company, Tammie has expanded her impact by creating an environment that fosters success through shared experiences and mutual support.  We explore Tammie’s entrepreneurial journey, from launching The Sapphire Suite to her personal growth strategies, including mastering delegation and finding joy in her work. She shares her insights on leadership, self-development, and the importance of cultivating a space where women can truly thrive.  Let’s go Beyond The Handshake and discover how Tammie Osborne is redefining what it means to build a business centered on empowerment and connection.  Learn more about The Sapphire Suite at www.thesapphiresuite.com and follow them on Instagram at @thesapphiresuite. Connect with Tammie Osborne on LinkedIn to continue the conversation!  

Conference planning is not for the faint of heart! On this episode of Beyond The Handshake, Lucy Miller sits down with Sydney Dozier to talk all things conference planning for women—the excitement, the challenges, the purpose behind it all, and some golden tips for pulling off a big event for your business.Sydney’s entrepreneurial journey started in her childhood bedroom with nothing but big dreams and bold ideas. Today, she’s the founder of Renaissance Marketing Group, a thriving agency specializing in social media, marketing strategy, podcast production, and large-scale events designed to spark transformation. Through RMG, she’s helping business owners create their own renaissance—one that fuels their passions and drives real impact.Looking to attend an inspiring women’s conference in Nashville in 2025?Join us for two incredible events designed to connect, empower, and help you scale your business:📅 Renaissance Women’s Summit – February 20, 2025🔗 Register here📅 Women Connect LIVE – October 17, 2025🔗 Register hereFollow @renaissancemarketing on Instagram and visit Renaissance Marketing Group to learn more about their services and how they can help you bring your big ideas to life!🎧 Tune in now—this episode is packed with insights you don’t want to miss!

This episode of Beyond The Handshake is with Jamie Rose Plum, Founder and Owner of Rose & Plum Living. Get ready to listen in on two good friends chatting all things business. From starting a business, the roller coaster we are on, the mom guilt, business planning, goal setting, and the village it takes to raise a family and find success in all the things. Jamie Rose's love for entertaining and providing beautiful and delicious food creations is a labor of love that her recent expansion is going to amplify. Lets go Beyond The Handshake and go behind the scenes on starting a new commercial kitchen space and hear all about the Rose & Plum journey. Follow Jamie Rose on Instagram at @roseandplumliving and definitely check out her website for your next event you need catered or fully planned at www.roseandplumliving.com

Are you overwhelmed by the complexities of the benefits world? Not sure how to incorporate YOUR ethos into your business practices? Perhaps you are curious about the experiences of a college athlete as a business woman now or someone who has faced a traumatic brain injury? Working with a spouse? So many interesting topics! In our latest episode, we sit down with Chelsea Ryckis, Founder of Ethos Benefits. As a former Canadian college athlete who suffered a major brain injury, Chelsea's personal journey has inspired her to bring truth and transparency to the health benefits industry through her company. Alongside her husband, Donovan, they are changing the game with their truth-led approach.Recently named Benefits Pro 2024 Advisor of the year, Chelsea also has a documentary and book titled "It's Not Personal, It's Just Healthcare". Join us as we go Beyond The Handshake with Chelsea Ryckis! Follow Chelsea on Instagram @benefitsboss_ , on linked in at https://www.linkedin.com/in/chelsea-ryckis-8508a192/ and visit www.ethosbenefits.com to learn more about how Ethos Benefits can revolutionize your company's healthcare benefits.

In this exciting episode of Beyond The Handshake, we had the pleasure of sitting down with the inspiring Jennifer Ghanem, who is not only the Founder but also the CEO of The Row Title.Jennifer's journey towards establishing her own title company has been truly remarkable, filled with numerous opportunities for growth, change, and the pursuit of ambitious goals. In this episode, we delve deep into the transformative power of the 10x goal setting process. Jennifer explains how setting a big 10x goal involves taking different steps and asking yourself different questions, ultimately leading to reaching new heights and achieving more.Jennifer's passion for her team and her dedication to expanding her business in significant ways shines through in our discussion. Her unique leadership style and sharp business acumen make for a fascinating conversation that you won't want to miss.Join us as we go Beyond The Handshake with Jennifer Ghanem! Be sure to follow Jennifer on Instagram at @rowtitle and visit www.rowtitle.com to discover how her team can assist you with your next real estate transaction.

In this episode of Beyond The Handshake, we sit down with Brielle Cotterman, Founder and CEO of The Influential Leader Agency. Brielle’s remarkable journey of resilience has inspired her to share her story worldwide, empowering others to do the same. From mastering the basics of publicity—whether speaking on stage, appearing on podcasts, or being on camera—to becoming a thought leader and creating real impact in your industry, our conversation offers valuable insights for anyone looking to expand their influence and make a meaningful difference.Brielle is a true connector, and our discussion underscores how showing up authentically and with purpose can attract the right opportunities and connections. Let’s go Beyond The Handshake with Brielle Cotterman!Follow Brielle on Instagram at @influential_leader_agency, and visit her website at briellecotterman.com to learn more about partnering with her team.

In this episode of Beyond The Handshake, we sit down with Anna-Vija McCloud. We chat through her journey of starting her agency as an "accident," growing and scaling it, the pivots she took, and now the ways her team serves their clients with marketing, systems, and their effort to grow!Anna-Vija has an expertise in batch producing content. This is pivotal for her success and how she leads her clients to find success, too. So, if creating content for social posts, email marketing, blogs, tackling SEO, or website promotion is something your business needs to improve...this episode is for you!Let’s go Beyond The Handshake with Anna-Vija McCloud!Follow Anna-Vija on Instagram at @annavija and @piccolosolution, and visit her website at www.piccolosolutions.com to learn more.

In this episode of Beyond The Handshake, we sit down with Blair Moore, Founder of BeStyledCo, who shares her incredible journey from accidentally starting a business to navigating the challenges of growing a team and serving clients across the U.S. Blair opens up about the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, the new skills she had to learn along the way, and how she’s continuing to evolve her business today.With social media playing a massive role in her success, Blair also reveals her top tips for showing up authentically online and how leveraging social platforms can transform your business. If you’re looking for actionable advice on building your brand and connecting with your audience, this episode is packed with valuable insights!Let’s go beyond the handshake with Blair Moore!Follow Blair on Instagram at @bestyledco, and visit her website at bestyledco.com to book a consultation.