Facing the Storm

This week, we’re keeping it short, sweet, and all about the moms! In honor of Mother’s Day, I tossed a bunch of real-talk questions about motherhood into a hat and had a few amazing mamas pick and answer them. Get ready for honest, funny, and heartwarming takes on what it's really like to be a mom.

Starting this podcast has been a wild ride—and honestly, a bit of a cup-filler for me. Kind of like making your first tuna casserole and realizing that yes, cheese and cream of mushroom soup can fix almost anything. In this episode, I’m joined by the amazing Dakota Dawn Johnson as guest host. We’re throwing out the rulebook and leaning into real, unscripted conversation—because that’s where the magic happens.Dakota and I chat about the power of sharing our stories from a scar rather than an open wound, and how being totally ourselves helps us connect with listeners on a deeper level. We’re all about keeping it honest and heartfelt.I also open up about a pretty big shift in my life—going through a divorce. It wasn’t easy, but those tough moments taught me a lot about resilience, forgiveness, and personal growth. By sharing stories from that time, my hope is that they remind others they’re not alone—that whatever storm you’re facing, there’s strength in walking through it togetherTherapy has played a huge role in my journey, too. I talk about what it’s like to find the right therapist (spoiler: it’s kind of like dating) and why it’s totally okay to keep looking until it feels like a good match. Dakota shares her own wisdom and encouragement, and she’s all about inviting feedback—whether it’s guest ideas, topics you’d like me to cover, or just to say hey.******************************************************Instagram:@facingthestormpodcastFacebook:@facingthestormpodcast******************************************************Thank you for joining me for another episode and braving the storm together. I genuinely appreciate you spending your precious time with me. If you enjoyed today’s episode and feel inspired, please consider sharing it, tagging us on social media, or leaving a review. Your support helps us spread the mission of empowering others to tackle life’s challenges with the strength and resilience of a buffalo. Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode—new ones drop every week! And remember, as Roger Miller once sang, “You can’t roller skate with a buffalo herd, but you can be happy if you’ve a mind to.”See you down the trail,Kallie Sue

Life has a way of throwing storms our way, and in this episode, we sit down with someone who’s faced them all head-on—Sharon Beach from Weatherford, Texas. Sharon has a deep love for cutting horses and is actively involved with the National Cutting Horse Association, but it’s her strength and honesty that truly shine through. She opens up about surviving a traumatic kidnapping and sexual assault—experiences that led to long-term health struggles—and how she found the courage to keep moving forward.Through it all, Sharon leans on faith, gratitude, and the power of community. We talk about how being surrounded by people who genuinely care can make all the difference. Whether it was the strength she found through prayer during a difficult hospital stay or the healing that came with forgiveness, her story is filled with raw moments and real wisdom.This episode isn’t just about surviving—it’s about growing through the hard stuff and finding gratitude in what life teaches us along the way. Sharon’s journey is a powerful reminder that even in our darkest times, there’s strength to be found—and sometimes, even a little humor (yes, there’s a broken leg story too). Tune in for an honest, uplifting conversation that might just change the way you see your own storms.******************************************************Instagram:@facingthestormpodcastFacebook:@facingthestormpodcast******************************************************Thank you for joining me for another episode and braving the storm together. I genuinely appreciate you spending your precious time with me. If you enjoyed today’s episode and feel inspired, please consider sharing it, tagging us on social media, or leaving a review. Your support helps us spread the mission of empowering others to tackle life’s challenges with the strength and resilience of a buffalo. Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode—new ones drop every week! And remember, as Roger Miller once sang, “You can’t roller skate with a buffalo herd, but you can be happy if you’ve a mind to.”See you down the trail,Kallie Sue

Hey there, and welcome to another episode of Facing the Storm. This episode is where I share some thoughts on how to deal with life’s tough moments. In this episode, we're diving into what it really means to face the storms that hit us—starting with the first (and hardest) step: recognizing and accepting that you’re in the middle of one.I'm sharing ten tips that helped me through my own hard times, including why letting yourself fully feel your emotions—yes, even crying it out—is actually powerful. We’ll talk about building resilience, tapping into your inner strength, and leaning on the people who love you. Because when things get heavy, community really does matter.We’ll also get into how healing starts with self-love and forgiveness. I’ll walk you through some ways to take care of yourself—like diving into your favorite hobbies, journaling your thoughts, or soaking up wisdom from books and podcasts. Together, we’ll talk about how to let go of shame from past struggles and how forgiveness isn’t just a one-time thing—it’s a practice.Through personal stories, I’ll show how self-care and support from others can help you move through emotional triggers and come out stronger. And finally, we’ll talk about finding peace and purpose after the storm—learning from what happened, and embracing the chance to begin again.So, if you're ready to face the storm and come out on the other side stronger, let’s do this together.******************************************************Instagram:@facingthestormpodcastFacebook:@facingthestormpodcast******************************************************Thank you for joining me for another episode and braving the storm together. I genuinely appreciate you spending your precious time with me. If you enjoyed today’s episode and feel inspired, please consider sharing it, tagging us on social media, or leaving a review. Your support helps us spread the mission of empowering others to tackle life’s challenges with the strength and resilience of a buffalo. Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode—new ones drop every week! And remember, as Roger Miller once sang, “You can’t roller skate with a buffalo herd, but you can be happy if you’ve a mind to.”See you down the trail,Kallie Sue

Join us as we welcome Katrina Avers, a remarkable individual with a diverse background rooted deeply in Oklahoma. Katrina shares her inspiring journey from earning a PhD in industrial organizational psychology to managing a research lab at the FAA's Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center. With a passion for aviation safety, she unites experts to address industry challenges and innovate for the future. Outside of her professional life, Katrina balances her roles as a rancher, wife, and mother of five, while running a unique Farm Fresh fundraiser that supports local agriculture as an alternative to traditional school fundraisers.Listen in as Katrina discusses her unexpected journey into politics, sharing her experience of running for the Oklahoma City Council. Initially hesitant, Katrina overcame personal barriers by aligning her skills with community needs, ultimately embracing the campaign with passion and determination. Through this conversation, Katrina highlights the importance of trusting one's instincts, maintaining resilience, and focusing on impactful contributions, even when faced with challenges both internally and externally.We also explore how Katrina navigated the complexities of political campaigns, including dealing with misinformation. To lighten the mood, Katrina shares a humorous story about the unpredictability of managing cattle on rough terrain, reflecting her family-oriented lifestyle filled with outdoor adventures. Don't miss this engaging episode as we uncover the many facets of Katrina's life, from aerospace and agriculture to community building and personal growth.******************************************************Instagram:@facingthestormpodcastFacebook:@facingthestormpodcast******************************************************Thank you for joining me for another episode and braving the storm together. I genuinely appreciate you spending your precious time with me. If you enjoyed today’s episode and feel inspired, please consider sharing it, tagging us on social media, or leaving a review. Your support helps us spread the mission of empowering others to tackle life’s challenges with the strength and resilience of a buffalo. Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode—new ones drop every week! And remember, as Roger Miller once sang, “You can’t roller skate with a buffalo herd, but you can be happy if you’ve a mind to.”See you down the trail,Kallie Sue

Have you ever transformed your passion into a thriving seven-figure business with just $85? Join us as we sit down with Sarah Kelsey, the inspiring force behind Rhinestone Lipgloss, who turned her dream into a sparkling reality. From the horse show circuit to crafting dazzling earrings that caught the attention of country music artists like Dolly, Reba and Miranda; Sarah's story is a testament to the power of resilience, creativity, and a little bit of sparkle. Learn how she navigated personal and professional challenges with what she calls "embracing the suck," turning obstacles into opportunities for growth and reinvention.Sarah's journey from a Mandarin Chinese interpreter to an entrepreneur is a fascinating tale of chasing potential, both in life and business. Discover how she transitioned from a stifling relationship to finding a partner who truly supported her ambitions, leading to the creation of her brand and a best selling book, "The Game Changer." Along the way, Sarah highlights the importance of a supportive community and logical decision-making, sharing personal anecdotes that illustrate how embracing reality, rather than mere optimism, can lead to profound personal and professional growth.We also explore the challenges Sarah faced, such as the Swarovski crisis, which threatened to derail her business. Through sheer determination and innovation, she created her own line of rhinestones, showcasing the importance of adaptability and persistence. Sarah's story isn't just about business success; it's about breaking barriers, defying traditional mindsets, and embracing possibilities regardless of background or experience. Tune in to be inspired by Sarah's unique approach to entrepreneurship and learn how you can craft a life you don't need a vacation from.******************************************************Instagram:@facingthestormpodcastFacebook:@facingthestormpodcast******************************************************Thank you for joining me for another episode and braving the storm together. I genuinely appreciate you spending your precious time with me. If you enjoyed today’s episode and feel inspired, please consider sharing it, tagging us on social media, or leaving a review. Your support helps us spread the mission of empowering others to tackle life’s challenges with the strength and resilience of a buffalo. Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode—new ones drop every week! And remember, as Roger Miller once sang, “You can’t roller skate with a buffalo herd, but you can be happy if you’ve a mind to.”See you down the trail,Kallie Sue

Join me for a reflective solo episode of Facing the Storm as I explore the profound lessons we can learn from the simplest of experiences. Inspired by a real-life story involving my beloved childhood dog, Bob Dog, I share how taking shelter can sometimes be the bravest and most necessary response when facing life's storms. Listen in as I recount the heartwarming tale of Bob Dog and connect it to the broader message of knowing when to take a step back and protect ourselves from the elements. This episode offers a unique perspective on confronting challenges and the wisdom in recognizing when it's time to seek shelter and wait for the storm to pass. Whether you're weathering your own storm or just enjoy a good story, this episode is sure to resonate with anyone who understands the balance between standing firm and seeking safety.******************************************************Instagram:@facingthestormpodcastFacebook:@facingthestormpodcast******************************************************Thank you for joining me for another episode and braving the storm together. I genuinely appreciate you spending your precious time with me. If you enjoyed today’s episode and feel inspired, please consider sharing it, tagging us on social media, or leaving a review. Your support helps us spread the mission of empowering others to tackle life’s challenges with the strength and resilience of a buffalo. Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode—new ones drop every week! And remember, as Roger Miller once sang, “You can’t roller skate with a buffalo herd, but you can be happy if you’ve a mind to.”See you down the trail,Kallie Sue

What happens when your dream job comes to an end, and you're left searching for your next identity? Join us as we chat with the inspiring Hailey Loven, former Miss Rodeo America 2022, who shares her journey from the dusty arenas of Colorado to her new adventures in Oklahoma with her husband Lars. Hailey opens up about her unexpected path into rodeo queening, her life-shaping experiences at Colorado State University, and how faith and perseverance have guided her through roles with the Cowboy and Cowgirl Channel to her current position. You'll hear firsthand how she continues to live her horse girl dreams with Montana Silversmiths, while working behind the scenes at rodeo events.Achieving a major goal can leave you asking "What's next?" We explore the unique challenges that come with the finite nature of rodeo queening, as Hailey and I swap stories about navigating identity shifts after such significant life chapters. With the constant pressure of social media comparisons, redefining oneself beyond past accolades can be surprisingly tough. Our conversation illuminates the pride and fulfillment of reaching dreams, while also embracing the need to discover new purposes and identities in a world where nothing stands still.Supportive relationships are crucial amid life’s demanding pursuits. Hailey candidly shares her experience of maintaining a long-distance relationship during her reign, emphasizing the importance of a supportive partner. Reflecting on such relationships, we dive into the significance of mutual encouragement and the strength that comes from a robust support system of friends and family. Through personal anecdotes, we highlight the importance of empathy and understanding. Join us as we discuss grace and embracing new identities.What you'll hear in this episode:(02:06) Journey of a Horse Crazy Little Girl (04:25) Following Dreams Through Rodeo Work (13:28) Navigating the Reality of a Dream Job (20:29) Importance of Support in Pursuing Dreams (26:19) Dusting Yourself Off and Getting Back On ******************************************************Instagram:@facingthestormpodcastFacebook:@facingthestormpodcast******************************************************Thank you for joining me for another episode and braving the storm together. I genuinely appreciate you spending your precious time with me. If you enjoyed today’s episode and feel inspired, please consider sharing it, tagging us on social media, or leaving a review. Your support helps us spread the mission of empowering others to tackle life’s challenges with the strength and resilience of a buffalo. Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode—new ones drop every week! And remember, as Roger Miller once sang, “You can’t roller skate with a buffalo herd, but you can be happy if you’ve a mind to.”See you down the trail,Kallie Sue

From ranch life to the artistry of leather and paint, my friend and mentor Joni Johnson embodies resilience and creativity. Growing up amidst horses and cattle, Joni's passion for art was born early and has since blossomed. Our conversation unfolds like a canvas, revealing her philosophy of "facing the storm," inspired by the buffalo's instinct to confront challenges head-on. Joni's insights on tackling life's obstacles with courage and the support of faith provide a compelling narrative for personal growth and quicker resolutions.The episode takes a poignant turn as she shares her journey of miraculous recovery after a devastating car accident. Faced with the possibility of losing her arm and never regaining the use of her thumb, faith and determination became her guiding lights. Through the unwavering support of community, relentless exercise, and prayer, she defied medical expectations. It's a testament to the power of scripture, perseverance, and the profound impact of a supportive network in overcoming adversity.Rounding out our discussion, we delve into the future of Joni's art, as she prepares to open a new studio that promises to be a haven for creativity and community. Tune in to witness how art, faith, and resilience intertwine to forge a path through life's storms. What you'll hear in this episode:(00:00) - Ranch Life and Early Art Days(06:51) - Miraculous Recovery After Car Accident(21:05) - Faith, Healing, and Overcoming Life's Storms(33:56) - Connecting With Joni Johnson******************************************************Instagram:@facingthestormpodcastFacebook:@facingthestormpodcast******************************************************Thank you for joining me for another episode and braving the storm together. I genuinely appreciate you spending your precious time with me. If you enjoyed today’s episode and feel inspired, please consider sharing it, tagging us on social media, or leaving a review. Your support helps us spread the mission of empowering others to tackle life’s challenges with the strength and resilience of a buffalo. Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode—new ones drop every week! And remember, as Roger Miller once sang, “You can’t roller skate with a buffalo herd, but you can be happy if you’ve a mind to.”See you down the trail,Kallie Sue

What if the storms you face in life were as unpredictable as Oklahoma tornadoes, and yet, through perseverance and faith, you found your calling amidst the chaos? Join us for a heartwarming conversation with Taylor Spears McAdams, a remarkable figure in the Rodeo Queen world. From the whirlwind of winning all four of Oklahoma's state titles to thriving as a content manager for Justin Brands in Fort Worth, Texas, Taylor shares her journey filled with aspirations, challenges, and the vibrant life she leads with her husband Tyler and their mini dachshund, Gus. Taylor's story is a testament to the power of resilience, as she recounts her journey to the Miss Rodeo America Pageant and the lessons learned afterwards. Her reflections on pivotal moments, such as heartfelt conversations with her dad and the demands of pageant life, offer valuable insights into treating life's challenges as stepping stones. We explore Taylor's transition from the Cowboy Channel to her current role, emphasizing the significance of embracing opportunities that scare us and remaining anchored in faith and gratitude, even in the face of setbacks.Amid the anecdotes of tornado-watching and farm life adventures, Taylor's humor and authenticity shine through, painting a vivid picture of her Oklahoma roots and the life lessons they impart. Her tales of overcoming disappointment and finding growth remind us of the strength in vulnerability and the importance of support systems. Stay tuned as Taylor takes us on her journey and invites us to follow her on social media, promising a lively glimpse into her world filled with creativity, branding, and a dash of Gus's stroller escapades.What you'll hear in this episode:(03:58) Branding Lessons in Fort Worth (11:27) Desire for a Job at Pageant (14:24) Feeling of Letting Everyone Down (18:17) Navigating Blessings Through Life's Storms (22:37) Journey to Achieving a Dream (33:16) Facing the Storm Podcast Perspective (37:57) Dad's Comical Pig Chase (41:10) Funny Memories and Hilarious Stories ******************************************************Instagram:@facingthestormpodcastFacebook:@facingthestormpodcast******************************************************Thank you for joining me for another episode and braving the storm together. I genuinely appreciate you spending your precious time with me. If you enjoyed today’s episode and feel inspired, please consider sharing it, tagging us on social media, or leaving a review. Your support helps us spread the mission of empowering others to tackle life’s challenges with the strength and resilience of a buffalo. Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode—new ones drop every week! And remember, as Roger Miller once sang, “You can’t roller skate with a buffalo herd, but you can be happy if you’ve a mind to.”See you down the trail,Kallie Sue

Life can be unpredictable, throwing challenges our way that test our resilience and adaptability. One moment you're navigating a life that feels balanced and fulfilling, and the next, you're facing a storm of emotions and decisions that redefine your journey. Dakota was in such a place when the unexpected loss of her mother struck, marking a profound shift in her life. This episode offers an intimate exploration of these pivotal moments, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability and the strength found in a supportive community.I'm joined by the remarkable Dakota Dawn Johnson, a lifelong friend and a key figure in the Western industry, to discuss how life's storms can be both unforeseen and self-chosen. Dakota shares her experiences growing up in Alabama with a love for horses and rodeo, and how she transformed that passion into a meaningful career as a key account manager at Ariat International and an entrepreneur with her husband. Her journey is one of resilience, navigating challenges such as financial struggles and co-parenting a sibling after her own loss, and finding purpose amid chaos.Together, Dakota and I reflect on the significance of support systems, faith, and finding gratitude in life's challenges. We talk about the transformative power of unexpected blessings, like Dakota meeting her husband, and how these experiences can serve as stepping stones to personal growth. Through personal anecdotes and heartfelt discussions, we explore the bravery needed to face life's storms, just as a buffalo faces harsh weather head-on. Join us for a conversation that not only acknowledges life's challenges but celebrates the strength and wisdom that come from enduring them.What you'll hear in this episode:(02:43) Rodeo Passion and Connecting With People (06:53) Two Types of Storms (15:28) Unexpected Support During Tough Times (21:52) Journey of Loss and Love (28:01) Empathy and Grief Through Life's Storms (33:05) The Role of Manager Johnson ****************************************************Instagram:@facingthestormpodcastFacebook:@facingthestormpodcast*****************************************************Thank you for joining me for another episode and braving the storm together. I genuinely appreciate you spending your precious time with me. If you enjoyed today’s episode and feel inspired, please consider sharing it, tagging us on social media, or leaving a review. Your support helps us spread the mission of empowering others to tackle life’s challenges with the strength and resilience of a buffalo. Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode—new ones drop every week! And remember, as Roger Miller once sang, “You can’t roller skate with a buffalo herd, but you can be happy if you’ve a mind to.”See you down the trail, Kallie Sue

What if you could transform life's storms into opportunities for growth and strength? Join me, Kallie Sue, as we explore the ethos of "Facing the Storm," where resilience meets reality. Inspired by the buffalo's bold instinct to charge into storms, I share my journey as an Oklahoma native balancing roles as an office manager, boutique owner, and passionate community volunteer. We'll unpack the origins of my personal motto, "You can lay there and be bitter, or you can get up and get better," and discover how it has influenced my path, including the creation of this podcast.Through personal stories, triumphing over a horse riding accident and navigating the complexities of divorce, we delve into the power of perseverance. The lessons learned from these experiences highlight the importance of confronting adversity directly, finding strength in faith, and the vital role of community support. With echoes of my grandmother's wisdom, we'll explore how embracing life's challenges with the fierce determination of a buffalo can lead to profound personal growth and resilience.This episode is a call to action for anyone seeking inspiration to face their own storms with courage. Open your heart to the stories shared and imagine how they might resonate in your own life. I invite you to connect with us, share your experiences, and join our mission of empowering resilience. Remember to subscribe so you never miss an opportunity to face the storm with strength and grace, and always feel free to engage with us on social media and leave your thoughts in a review. Together, we'll learn to ride out life's storms with the unwavering spirit of a true cowgirl.What you'll hear in this episode:(01:34) Facing the Storm Podcast Introduction (08:44) Finding Inspiration in Family Legacy (17:00) Overcoming Adversity in Adulthood (21:15) Embracing the Present, Embracing Happiness (24:56) Sharing Wisdom Through a Podcast ******************************************************Instagram:@facingthestormpodcastFacebook:@facingthestormpodcast******************************************************Thank you for joining me for another episode and braving the storm together. I genuinely appreciate you spending your precious time with me. If you enjoyed today’s episode and feel inspired, please consider sharing it, tagging us on social media, or leaving a review. Your support helps us spread the mission of empowering others to tackle life’s challenges with the strength and resilience of a buffalo. Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode—new ones drop every week! And remember, as Roger Miller once sang, “You can’t roller skate with a buffalo herd, but you can be happy if you’ve a mind to.”See you down the trail,Kallie Sue

Throughout this episode, I recount the humbling journey of gathering guests whose stories need to be heard. From entrepreneurs who faced daunting obstacles in their business ventures to those who have navigated personal losses, each narrative is a testament to the human spirit's resilience. By sharing these powerful stories, we aim to inspire and encourage listeners to find their strength and face their own storms. So, tune in and join us as we bring you heartfelt stories and valuable insights, proving that everyone has a unique path filled with its own obstacles and triumphs.