Stacked

Life doesn't always go as planned and sometimes, it completely knocks us off course. In this episode with Dr. Rachel Goldman, psychologist and author of When Life Happens, to talk about how we navigate the unexpected, build resilience, and show up stronger.

This episode is all about the pieces that stay with us. The bracelet someone gave you during a hard time. The necklace that reminds you of a moment, a person, or a feeling. These are the pieces that matter. In this solo episode, I'm sharing how Wear What Matters became a way of living-choosing to wear things that hold meaning, tell a story, and make a difference in how we feel and show up. Because … the right piece doesn't just complete an outfit…it connects you to what matters most 

In this deeply moving episode of Stacked, Elyse sits down with Annie Roth and Mary Ellen Bartlett, co founder of Find Your Voice Now - a nonprofit dedicated to helping individuals heal from toxic and emotionally abusive relationships. This conversation is about finding your voice - but more importantly, realizing you were never meant to do it alone.

This one's coming back around — and for good reason. Episode 10 was one of our most-listened, most-shared, most-"I sent this to my husband" episodes to date, so we're bringing it back for the ones who missed it and the ones who need to hear it again. Jerry and I get into the real stuff: what 37 years of marriage actually looks like when the kids are grown, the routines have shifted, and you're sitting across from someone wondering, "do I still like you?" Spoiler — I do. Most days. We talk friendships that fade, the ones that stick, and why your circle at 50 looks nothing like it did at 30. It's honest, it's messy, and apparently, it made a lot of you cry in your cars. You've been warned. Again.

This episode is one of the most important conversations I've had.  I'm joined by Holocaust survivor Erika Gold, who shares her journey from a young girl in Budapest to surviving the unimaginable.  Her story is one of fear, resilience, courage, and ultimately survival.  This episode is about more than history - it's about truth, memory, and the responsibility we all carry to listen, to learn and to never forget.

In this episode of Stacked…ElyseRyan talks about what happens when our expectations of others are higher than reality. In this solo episode, Elyse talks about the freedom that comes when we stop expecting everyone to think like we do. A very challenging practice! True feelings!

The Accessories world is filled with passion, creativity, and incredible entrepreneurs-and a few people see it like Karen Giberosn, President of the Accessories Council.  In this episode of STACKED, we talk about the power of community in fashion, supporting designers at every stage, and how the accessories industry continues to evolve.  It's an inspiring conversation about leadership, connection, and the people behind the brands. A fascinating episode !

On this episode of STACKED, I sit down with the hilarious and insightful Susan Shoer host of Dateless in Delray, for a real and wildly entertaining conversation about the modern dating scene. From dating disasters to unexpected connections, Susan shares the stories, lessons, and ;laughs that come from navigation relationships today. We talk honesty, confidence, vulnerability - and why sometimes the best dating stories are the ones you never planned. Because in Delray ….dating is never boring !

I didn't start ElyseRyan with a five-year plan or a vision board or a strategy deck. I started it at my kitchen table, in the middle of a real life-marriage, motherhood, responsibility, joy, loss, growth - all of it .

In this solo episode of STACKED, I'm reflecting on how the little things in life have shaped who I am today. It's about how tiny moments, small gestures, and meaningful connections quietly transform us

In this episode of STACKED, Jerry and I answer your questions about marriage, business, building my business, navigating hard seasons, staying connected after 37 years, and how we've stacked love, reliance. 

This week on the Stacked Podcast, we’re revisiting one of our most inspiring guests.We sit down with Sydnie Peebles — founder and designer of Sydnie Banks — to explore how personal loss can be transformed into purpose, creativity, and entrepreneurship. What began as a deeply personal journey through grief became the inspiration for a luxury handbag brand where every piece is hand-stitched with intention, meaning, and love.Sydnie shares how following her passion helped her heal, how she built a business rooted in authenticity, and why creativity can carry us through life’s darkest seasons. This is a powerful story of resilience, love, and turning pain into something beautiful.Connect with Sydnie: IG: @sydniebanks Website: www.sydniebanks.com

In this powerful and deeply moving episode, we sit down with Lindsay Silverman Otte- a survivor of childhood sexual abuse who has broken her silence to become a beacon of hope for others.  Lindsay shares her emotional journey from trauma to healing, revealing how she transformed her pain into purpose through advocacy and art therapy.  Her story is one of extraordinary resilience, strength, and the unshakable belief that our darkest moments can become a source of light for others.  This episode is a testament to the power of speaking out , the importance of healing, and the impact of using our voice to help others find theirs. You can find Lindsay on IG @creating.lindsay

Elizabeth Blau…restaurateur extraordinaire is the kind of leader who believes success means more when you bring others with you. From her early days working alongside legendary Siri's Maccioni at Le Cirque to helping shape the culinary and hospitality landscape of Las Vegas, Elizabeth has built a career rooted in vision, relationships, and purpose.  What truly sets her apart is her commitment to giving back-mentoring the next generation, strengthening communities, and using her platform to create meaningful change. On this episode of STACKED, we talk about confidence, leadership, and why real success isn't just what you build, but who you life along the way. Also..Elizabeth has been nominated for a James Beard Award this year! 

In this powerful episode of STACKED by ElyseRyan,, I sit down with Sylvie Legere, Co-Founder of The Policy Circle, to talk about confidence, leadership, and the courage to step forward before you feel "ready." Sylvie shares her journey from the world's technology and financial services to building The Policy Circle -a national movement dedicated to educating and empowering women to engage, lead, and influence. We discuss why confidence is built through action, how informed participation changes everything, and what it truly means to trust yourself in rooms where decisions are made. This conversation is grounded in real life discipline, motherhood, partnership, and the power of showing up even when doubt is present. If you've ever questioned your readiness, your voice, or your impact, this episode will remind you: you belong at the table.

Heartland Hustle:Chad Sonkin on Motivation and Making it in LA

Lisa Friedman Clark calls herself "the Luckiest Unlucky Woman" and today she shares why. Standing over six feet tall and full of life, Lisa reflects on losing her husband on 9/11,, raising her sons and helping them build Tall Order Socks - a company inspired by their father and created a brand built on comfort, confidence, family and giving back. Lisa's story is unforgettable, uplifting and full of heart.Lisa Friedman Clark @lisafriedmanclark. @tallordersocks

Shari Goldberg joins us to discuss her mission driven work inspired by raising her son Noah with autism. Seeing first hand the lack of support, information, and community she helped bring Autism Speaks to Northeast Ohio. Along the way she realized the lack of long term resources for adults with special needs, Shari sets out to create real lasting change through Creative Living for Life-a community focused on maximizing independence with lifelong support. In this episode she shares the realities parents face, the gaps in support, and her vision to a future where every person with special needs can live with dignity and purpose for the rest of their lives. This is a story of a mother, an advocate and a leader transforming heartbreak into hope.Shari Loveman Goldberg: @sharigoldberg22                                                   [email protected]

Elyse Ryan gets real about confidence - how to build it, protect it, and live it. From business setbacks to personal breakthroughs, Elyse Ryan share what confidence looks like behind the scenes: messy, brave, and beautifully human. This episode reminds us that self-belief is a practice, not a personality and finding confidence through authenticity-and perfection.

In this deeply moving episode of STACKED, mother-daughter duo Brenda and Faith Ferber share the raw personal journey they first opened up about in the Huffington Post article “My Daughter Told Me She Wanted To Die. To Save Her Life, I Gave Her Permission To End It.”  Through pain, vulnerability, and courage they both found a path to healing—and are using their voices to help others navigate complexities of mental health. Their story is a reminder that even in our darkest moments, connection and compassion can light the way forward.

In this episode of Stacked, I'm joined by Stacy Igel, founder of Boy Meets Girl and author of Embracing the Calm in the Chaos. We talk about building a purpose-driven brand, leading with kindness and finding calm in the chaos of life and entrepreneurship. Stacy shares honest insights on creativity, resilience and the power or slowing down while staying true to who you are. A meaningful conversation about passion, purpose, and embracing the calm.@boymeetsgirlusahttps://www.instagram.com/boymeetsgirlusa/@embracingthecalminthechaos

In this episode of Stacked by ElyseRyan I sit down with the incredible Nancy Berger—a visionary leader whose three-decade career has shaped iconic brands and empowered women across industries. From launching groundbreaking initiatives like Allure's Best of Beauty and The Marie Claire Power Trip to founding Start With a Good (S.W.A.G.), Nancy's work is all about innovation, connection, and elevating others. Nancy also shares her deeply personal experience during the LA wildfires, where she stepped in with compassion and action to support families in crisis. Her instinct to help reflects the true essence of her leadership. Instagram: @startwithagood

Families Grow, friendships shift, and life constantly moves in new directions - and thats where true gratitude lives. In this Thanksgiving episode I'm reflecting on my daughters, my grandchildren, my husband, my friends, my team and the ever-changing seasons that make up my life. It's honest, emotional, and filled with the lessons that come with you when you finally embrace change with an open heart.

In this heartfelt episode, author and educator M.B. Paradise joins the conversations to share the story behind her sweet, beach-inspired children's book Beach Santa. What began as an idea spurred by a moment of kindness at the shore evolved into a mission: a book that not only delights young readers, but channels a portion of proceeds to support people living with spinal cord injury through Team LeGrand and the Christopher & Dana Reeves Foundation.Instagram: mbparadiseauthor

In this heartfelt conversation, Amri Kibbler - founder of HeyMama and host of the Space Between - opens up about navigating life's unexpected chapters with grace, honesty, and community. From building a global network of women to walking through her own cancer journey as a mom, Amri shares what it really means to live in the space between - where growth, vulnerability, and peace coexist.

From FIT classmates to fashion powerhouses Pattie and Kristin turned their passion for design into the bold lifestyle brand Think Royln. In this episode, they spill how they built a business that's all about living life on the fly-with style, hustle, and a little bit of edge.

Get ready for a wild ride through the world of real estate with Evan Berman - a top agent who's sold over half a billion dollars worth of homes! Evan doesn't just sell houses; he thrives on on building real connections, understanding people's psychology, and navigating the love, the fun and yes…the crazy that comes with the job. From laugh-out-loud client stories to the secrets behind his success, this episode is packed with energy, insights, and a whole lot of passion.

In part two, Sarrah shares how she transformed her personal experience into a powerful platform for advocacy. She talks about using her voice to raise awareness, support others facing breast cancer, and inspire hope through her story.  With her energy, humor, and fearless outlook on life, Sarrah proves that survivorship is about more that surviving- its about thriving, connecting and making a difference.

In this first conversation with Sarrah Strimel Bentley, we dive into the moment that changed everything-her shocking breast cancer diagnosis. With her humor, heart, and raw honesty, Sarrah opens up about falling in love, navigating fertility struggles, and the extraordinary journey that led to her baby boy Chance, through surrogacy.  Her story is emotional, inspiring, and sprinkled with her signature wit.Sarrah Strimel Bentley @sarrahstrimelbentley achanceforlife.org

Surviving October 7th was only the beginning of Shye Klein's journey.  Two years later, Shye has transformed his pain into purpose.  Through his advocacy work, photography, speaking engagements across the country, he is making sure the stories of that day are never forgotten - and that 'never again' truly means never again. In this second part of our conversation, we talk about the path forward: how Shye is honoring the victims, raising awareness, and using his voice to inspire strength, resilience, and remembrance.

On October 7th, at the Nova Music Festival, thousands of young people gathered to celebrate life, music, and freedom. Among them was photographer Shye Klein, there to capture the beauty of the day through his lens.  But as the sun rose, that joy turned into horror.  Rockets filled the sky, chaos broke out, and the festival grounds became the site of an unthinkable massacre. In this first part of our conversation, Shye takes us back to those terrifying moments - from realizing something was terribly wrong, to the desperate fight for survival, and the courage it took to make it out alive.

In this episode of STACKED, I had the amazing opportunity to sit down with Dr. Douglas Burton, a world-renowned orthopedic surgeon surgeon whose life took an unexpected turn when he was diagnosed with glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer.  Faced with a daunting prognosis, Dr. Burton has pursued every possible avenue- from clinical trials in the U.S. to cutting edge vaccines in Germany-to keep tumor at bay.  But what makes Dr. Burton truly extraordinary isn't just his medical journey-it's his spirit. Everyday he wakes up with the most positive attitude and spread that unwavering positivity to everyone around him.  With deep spirituality, resilience, and perspective, he reminds us that while none of us can escape mortality, we can choose how we live right now-with gratitude, courage and purpose.

Today on STACKED, I'm joined by two incredible women who turned an unexpected challenge into a sweet success story.  What started as a friendship in a new mom's group quickly blossomed into something so much bigger. When the pandemic left them without jobs , instead of slowing down, they decided to rise-quite literally-with determination.  Catherine and Kristen while raising 5 children between them dreamed up a place where people could grab coffee, share a pastry, bring their kids, and most importantly-connect.  That dream became The Hive, now a thriving community hub with not one but two locations in Hoboken and Jersey City.   Along the way, they've become famous for their irresistible cinnamon rolls, drawing in influencers, celebrities, and loyal locals alike.I can't wait for you to hear their journey of friendship, grit, building community - one cinnamon bun at a time. @hellofromthehive

Stacked with Resilience. This episode is a deeply moving conversation about loss, love, and the healing power of community.  Sherri Mandell and her daughter Eliana Braner the founders of the Koby Mandell Foundation - created in memory of Sherry's son, Koby,a vibrant 13 year old Israeli-American boy whose life was tragically taken in a terrorist attack in 2001. Out of heartbreak, they built hope-showing extraordinary resilience as they created healing retreats, support programs, and therapy for families and children in Israel who have been touched by terror and grief. This story of passion, legacy, and the unbreakable strength it takes to turn pain into purpose.

Stacked with Resilience. This episode is a deeply moving conversation about loss, love, and the healing power of community.  Sherri Mandell and her daughter Eliana Braner the founders of the Koby Mandell Foundation - created in memory of Sherry's son, Koby,a vibrant 13 year old Israeli-American boy whose life was tragically taken in a terrorist attack in 2001. Out of heartbreak, they built hope-showing extraordinary resilience as they created healing retreats, support programs, and therapy for families and children in Israel who have been touched by terror and grief. This story of passion, legacy, and the unbreakable strength it takes to turn pain into purpose.

From her mouthwatering kosher recipes that bring family and friends together, to her thoughtful discussions on antisemitism and cultural identity, Melinda's work is a celebration of faith, food, and community. Plus, she's launching her new cookbook, a exciting addition to her impressive repertoire! So, get ready to be inspired as we explore how Melinda engages her followers and challenges stereotypes while keeping tradition alive. Let’s welcome Melinda Strauss!

Today I'm thrilled to share the inspiring story behind Gold and Honey a jewelry brand born from sisterhood, family tradition, and fearless creativity. Sisters Elizabeth and Rachel took the wisdom they learned from their father's family business, combined it with their experience working for top designers, and created a line that's as colorful as it is timeless. Sustainability is at the heart of their work, customization is their love language, and giving back is a part of their DNA.  Being sisters in a family business brings its own sparkle - and as for what's next for Gold and Honey ? Well… thats a story still being written.

In this moving episode, we sit down with Sydnie Peebles - founder and designer of Sydnie Banks, a luxury handbag brand where every piece is hand-stitched with intention, purpose, and love.  What began as a personal journey through grief has blossomed into a brand that turns sorrow into beauty, and pain into purpose. Sydnie shares how following her passion not only helped her heal but also allowed her to create timeless, one-of-a-kind handbags that are as meaningful as they are beautiful This is a story of love, loss, resilience-and how creativity can carry us through the darkest times.You can contact Sydnie here. IG: @sydniebanks. www.sydniebanks.com

Kenzie Wesp is a true force-blending power, passion, and purpose into anything she touches.  When an injury ended her dance career, she didnt stop moving-she simply pivoted with grace.   Now the founder of TRUEFORM FITNESS in Nashville, Kenzie is leading a faith-based fitness movement that's changing lives from the inside out.  In this heartfelt episode, we talk about what it means to start over, build something meaningful, and show up with intention-every single day.  From her love of family and her passion for wellness and community, Kenzie is the embodiment of strength and soul!

In this episode, I sit down with Adrianne Roth - owner, designer, mother, wife and philanthropist-whose passion and talent has transformed the skies.  As the powerhouse along with her husband Eric (who started the business 40 years ago) of International Jet Interiors , Adrianne has redefined luxury by refurbishing private jets into personalized sanctuaries for presidents, celebrities, entrepreneurs, and dreamers around the globe. From custom design elements to unforgettable details 40,000 feet in the air, Adrianne shares how she brings beauty, comfort, and joy to the most exclusive clients in the world-all while balancing family, purpose, and giving back. Get ready to soar with a story of creativity, heart, and high-altitude hustle!

In this deeply moving episode of STACKED, mother-daughter duo Brenda and Faith Ferber share the raw personal journey they first opened up about in the Huffington Post article “My Daughter Told Me She Wanted To Die. To Save Her Life, I Gave Her Permission To End It.”  Through pain, vulnerability, and courage they both found a path to healing—and are using their voices to help others navigate complexities of mental health. Their story is a reminder that even in our darkest moments, connection and compassion can light the way forward.

What happens when you mix passion, instinct, and an unbeatable brownie recipe? You get Lisa King-founder of Brownie Points Inc.- a self made mogul whose business journey began in a Cleveland apartment and turned into one of the most beloved gourmet brownie brands in America. In this episode of STACKED: stories of Power, Passion and Purpose, Lisa shares how she went from schoolteacher to CEO, the challenges she faced along the way, and why listening to your gut is sometimes the most strategic business move of all. Get ready to be inspired by a story of sweet success, entrepreneurial grit, and delicious innovation.

What do you get when you mix Midwest charm, no job, big dreams, and a one way ticket to LA? Chad Sonkin. In this episode, Chad shares how he, t packed up his positivity, took a giant leap of faith, and somehow didn't end up living in a van (spoiler: it was close). From, cornfields to palm trees, Chad shows us how a good attitude, a little bit of hustle, and a "glass half full" mindset can take you further than any GPS.

We've hit that stage-where your back hurts, your friends change, and suddenly going out means leaving the house and putting on pants.  In this episode, my husband Jerry and I talk about the weird, wonderful, and sometimes awkward next chapter of life: redefining friendships, figuring out who's still on the circle, and deciding how (and with whom) we really want to spend out time. It's part therapy, part comedy, and 100% real life!

In this powerful episode of Stacked, I sit down with Meaghan Murphy-Editor-in-Chief of Woman's Day magazine, author of the life-changing book Your Fully Charged Life, and the unstoppable force behind the "YAY" movement. Meaghan shares the inspiring journey that led her from personal struggles to becoming the powerhouse leader of one of the nation's top women's magazines.  We dive into how launching her book during the height of COVID gave people the tools to recharge their lives, and how her own pursuit of positivity transformed everything-from her mindset to her mission.  This is more than just a conversation- it's a reminder that joy is a choice, energy is contagious, and we all have the power to live a fully charged life.  Get ready to get STACKED with Meaghan's YAY-fueled wisdom.

Deb Belfatto is a force. A breast cancer survivor twice, relentless advocate, and founder of Let's Talk Women's Health & Wellness, Deb is a woman who doesn't just talk about change - she makes it happen.  In this powerful episode, we dive into Deb's journey through, survivorship, philanthropy, and purpose-driven leadership. She shares the passion behind her mission, how she uplifts women daily, and why New Jersey-and the world-is better because of Deb.  Deb has that rare kind of magic that moves mountains and hearts alike.  You'll leave this conversation deeply inspired, full of hope, and ready to take action. Connect with Deb Belfatto: @dqbelfatto

Today on stacked….We have a truly inspiring guest, Melanie Sheppard. Melanie's journey is a testament to the power of determination and the impact one person can make in the world. Initially standing out in a sea of faces, she embraced her uniqueness and channeled her passion into a remarkable opportunity: an internship at the White House. This pivotal experience not only opened doors for her but also reshaped the trajectory of her life. With newfound insights and a deep commitment to service, Melanie has made the courageous decision to pause her career and dedicate herself to a special project in Ukraine.  In this challenging environment, she is working tirelessly to contribute to initatives that could shape the future of the nation. Join us as we delve into Melanie's incredible story of resilience, dedication, and the transformative power of following one's passion.

What happens when four sisters with a love for food, fun, and family turn their passion into a powerhouse brand? Meet the women behind SisterSnacking - the viral food influencer crew taking over your feed.  Form restaurant reviews to celeb-studded collabs, these sisters are dishing out more that just delicious bites-they're serving up business savvy, social media mastery, and some serious sisterhood goals. In this episode, we dive into their journey: how it started, the wild ride it's been, and what's next on their menu. Whether you're a foodie, entrepreneur, or social media fan, you'll leave inspired-and probably a little hungry 

What's it like to be famous, fearless and freakishly fast? In this episode, I sit down with racing legend Derek Bell-five-time Le Mans winner, international heartthrob (sorry Derek), and master storyteller. From near death experiences to champagne-soaked podiums, Derek shares the highs, the hazards, and the hilarious moments from life in the fast lane-plus the advice he'd give the next generation of dreamers, drivers, and anyone chasing something big. Buckle up-it's a wild ride. 

What happens when two adult daughters sit down with the mom who raised the (me)? A lot of laughs, passion, and a few confessions. In this episode , we talk about what it was like growing up with me! The moments that made us laugh and roll our eyes, and what they'll carry forward-and maybe leave behind-as new moms themselves