Brenda Cantrell is joining us in the north Alabama shopping mecca where we’re surrounded by treasures and amazing bargains. This featured guest is a people connector and truly authentic. Nearly a million people a year pass through the location where we’re podcasting for this amazing episode. Have you wondered where the ultimate lost piece of baggage goes? It just might be in Scottsboro, Alabama. This year is a festive 50th year for Unclaimed Baggage and the plans are rolling out to make a national splash.Brenda is spinning lots of plates while she’s centered in her current role doing what she considers to be the best job in the world as the brand ambassador. He r organization has some progressive methods in training their team members to create an experience for each person who walks through their doors— no matter what role the employee plays. There are some fabulous business practices like “owning the drive home” that she shares with us. For an all inclusive experience, schedule some time to go by this tourist location.Brenda’s parents raised her to go and fulfill her dreams and she’s done the same for her children. Advice she offers to youth — probably to anyone no matter their age — don’t write off an opportunity because you think that you are too big for a position. We talk about family balance how personality can actually lend itself to not having balance. Listen to laugh and get excited about a road trip coming your way. Tune in!Song used by permission “Stomp” written by Donica Knight Holdman and Jim HuffMusic "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

Jenna Rhodes headed down the path of biology and along the way fell in love with education. Today, she is right where she wants to be making a difference in the life of a child. She loves and feeds off of people to get more energy to make her best contributions. Quickly Jenna learned that the medical field was not her calling when she passed out in the surgical room and that moment changed her studies. Today she brings neuroscience to the classroom and her goal is to help teachers be empowered through self-efficacy — that means that she’s working with teachers in Georgia to look at performances with task-specific self confidence through theories of motivation and various learning situations. Jenna is wired to get a lot done and find balance in her family. She's a product of the Crisp County School system and her goal in giving back is to impact her community and help those affected by generational poverty and be one to help give a fair chance. There are many subjects we bounce through, but we dive into a discussion of executive functioning skills and setting goals based on rational reasons verses impulse. Listen to where she is and how she puts life in perspective of small town community in helping people. Tune in!Song used by permission "Stomp" written by Donica Knight Holdman and Jim HuffMusic "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

Episode 41 — Marjorie Stackhouse, Find Community As You Build A FamilyThere are so many activities that defined this sweet lady, but more than anything her faith sustains her. This episode features my husband’s mom — Marjorie Stackhouse or Mama Stack as we know her. She is 93 years old and is full of wisdom. Before any of the boys came on the scene, Marjorie was crowned “The Green Bean Queen” in her little community.Listen up as she talks about her boys and how they have turned out as great adults with many lessons from their dad. We get to hear of Tom’s dating life before I arrived in his heart! One hobby that all know her for is square dancing — there were nights that she and husband Cecil square danced for hours — they were in a group for 25 years and her dancing continued to just a few years ago when she cut a rug at grandson Sean’s wedding. Music is a part of her life and has been for years as she sang in the church choirs, played the piano and organ and even took voice as a young girl. We talk about her favorite plant that bloomed once a year where you had to get up even in the middle of the night so that you could catch it. Her words of encouragment centered on making sure that you focus on other people. Tune in!Song used by permission “Stomp” written by Donica Knight Holdman and Jim HuffMusic "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

Episode 40 — Betty McManus — The “Me” Is A Small Part of the WorldYou are in for a treat. My mom — Betty McManus— joins the podcast on this episode and my wish is that you feel pulled in and are transported to your own life and memories. Don’t ever say that you won’t do something because you never know what life will give to you. She developed the attitude of being connected to what is happening in her part of the world in whatever comes her way. In her later years, she brought her leadership skills to impact the place she came to call home. She’s been a teacher and a pastor’s wife and a mom to six. Early on she grew up on a farm and that was the beginning of her creativity sparking as she learned to play with whatever was around. I can remember as a kid that some of these abilities were passed to me as well to help imagination grow. There are hilarious stories—how she ditched some peas she had to shell—and the fact that she didn’t get in trouble blows me away.Betty filled her life with activities that include writing, painting, planning events, growing roses, designing cards, making porcelain pieces to name a few. We talked about her dreams—she wanted to write for The Progressive Farmer (Southern Living) but her world took a different route. Did I mention she's turning 95 this year? Her experience is that the Lord called her husband first to the ministry and then the Lord helped her to support him anyway she could, pleasantly. With that she learned to manage her time, efforts and strengths. Together the two of them embraced some of the unusual and they were ready to take on the world. In our chat, Betty offers pointers to young moms that can help one to be intentional and to be flexible. Tune in! Song used by permission “Stomp” written by Donica Knight Holdman and Jim HuffMusic "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

Showing Up In A Room and Say What You’re ThinkingThis conversation is incredible and has such depth with Ashley White that you’ll be immediately pulled into the life of a young adult who’s working in Nashville to establish herself. Look into her world as she made connections. Ashley is a song writer and has been she was a kid. She tells us about producing her songs and being messy while she is getting where she wants to through the songs. She says that she wonders if sometimes the ideas and things that we fall in love with we are younger and more innocent are not just dreams but that they are promises and plans from God. We talk about being in social media as she works in that world for clients and we talk about how you are communicating and balance. Some clarity comes in learning to believe in herself. Ashley has toured and has found that music is a bridge—it has a way of connecting us all—literally, physically and scientifically as our heartbeats get in rhythm when we hear music. We talk about the venerability of songwriting and the process. You will hear some of her journaling and thoughts of how she uses that technique. This is a special episode that will open your mind to a creative and true artist. We talk about enneagrams — a concept that you will want to investigate. Evidently enneagrams go back to childhood wounds and we get a bit down that road with Ashley. An interesting view that Ashley has is with mentors and community. She owns up to the idea that she wants the input and trusts it. Tune in!Song used by permission “Stomp” written by Donica Knight Holdman and Jim HuffMusic "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

Episode 38- Bonnie Trulove, Sometimes It Just Takes A SmileThis episode features Bonnie Trulove from Montgomery, Alabama who is an amazing mom, friend and an advocate for autism and special need abilities. You’ll hear some of her journey in this episode. She has three children that she and husband Tim have raised with passion and compassion. Believing in independence and having her kids step up to personal responsibility when they hit the teen years created an open dialogue that continues—she truly enjoys her adult kids. Bonnie says a "smile" is sometimes just what a mom who has a special needs kid or say "hi" and acknowledge their child. Those gestures can mean so much.Bonnie's broad background in education, counseling and experience prepared her for exactly what she needed to help equip her kids with life skills. You’ll hear her talk about the abilities of her son Jack and some of the challenges and opportunities on the horizon. Tune in!Song used by permission "Stomp" written by Donica Knight Holdman and Jim HuffMusic "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

The fairly new newly wed has a life that includes being a wife and coach/teacher. Hannah joins this episode and talks about her love for sports and now coaching. She has blazed the trail and has advice to youngsters…don’t quit. Letting one person bring you down is not the way to a championship. She’s a winner and has been named Coach of the Year for her county. You will laugh when she talks about learning on the job. Being a coach gives a platform to talk and listen while building a relationship. Hannah says that conversation should not stop with her, rather she is a starting point. We talk about Hannah having difficulty in learning and the struggles she conquered. Celebrate the small things in life. There are times to get out of your head and just do what you need to do at the moment. Sports can build teamwork, help you learn not to quit and to figure out how to ask for help, tap into discipline, learn respect…sometimes you learn in sports through immediate consequence but the principles become ingrained. You will miss 100 percent of the shots that you don’t take. Tune in.Song used by permission "Stomp" written by Donica Knight Holdman and Jim HuffMusic "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

Culture tells us to be more, buy more and make more money. In this conversation I discuss with Brittany Bethea the idea that these cultural standards are not our identity or what makes us valuable. This young professional is living a life that blends work and motherhood. She’s had what she calls the perfect career job and has struggled to find her balance. As a pharmacist she has navigated roles that landed her at Auburn University in a teaching capacity.You will throughly enjoy Brittany as she’s the guest in this episode and you’ll hear how she explored how she makes her career, marriage and family in the order that make her happy. She’s an achiever. She loves to study, to learn and has learned that being Superwoman is not what you think. Learning to say no is okay and the advice she offers has come through living and setting boundaries that stick and that she began in her youth. Brittany shares much that she has learned about herself. We talk about counseling and how that can be an incredibly useful. We cover some dynamics in marriage, being a spouse of a minister and the two people who influenced Brittany most in her life. Being enough and enough in Christ is where Brittany found herself. Tune in!Song used by permission “Stomp” written by Donica Knight Holdman and Jim HuffMusic "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

This Alabama girl is the perfect match. Lauren Kendrick works for a company based out of Sydney, Australia and is servicing customers with a technical know-how but also with an understanding of the customer journey. Lauren talks about the ideas of “imposter syndrome” of a career—where you fear that maybe your job is too wonderful and you don’t belong there but she encourages one to take their unique skill set and match that to the job. Growing up in a medical family Lauren thought that would be the route she’d take, but she chased another avenue to serve people and to make an impact. This happened in ways that she couldn’t imagine as she set out in her career. You don’t usually think of software as being one of personal connections, but her approach makes it a task to service the customer and rally them around the product. Lauren’s advice to both younger and older individuals is to surround yourself with cheerleaders— but make sure that those people whom you select are truthful to you so that they give constructive advice to help you pivot into the purposes of this world. Lauren found that in her faith and looking inward to examine herself that she could find the direction in her career and her relationship choices.Push to be your best and then run with it was the advice coming out of her dad and the support from her mom. She is finding fulfillment in her role, enjoyment in her life, and can sustain herself in this career. Know your value and your worth and be confident are guidelines Lauren stands by and says that is what defines the approach in life and career. She got the “just ask” technique down because often that is all is takes to get further down the road to pursue what you are after in this life. Tune in to learn more about empathy as a team player.Song used by permission “Stomp” written by Donica Knight and Jim HuffMusic "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

Desiray Emerton is our guest on Stacked Keys Podcast and she does not waste one minute of a day. Learning is life to Desiray and you’ll gain insight through many of her ventures. Faith and spirituality is important to her. Being in the Air Force provided experiences and honed the skills of interpersonal relationships of bridging people of different cultures and backgrounds— learning to work with people helps you to get the job done. The parenting advice she gives is incredibly valuable teaching open mindness and accepting people where and who they are. Her mom was her inspiration and her mentor — she should her faith and taught her to work hard and provide. Desiray has a bend toward teaching and she directs that toward learning about the life and culture of Native Americans through original documentation sources. Look on the inside to know a person. To be a leader, you create leaders. Tune in!Song used by permission “Stomp” written by Donica Knight and Jim Huff.Music "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

Start by believing. Katie Rumsey is a sexual assault nurse in Georgia and we sat down for a conversation that is eye opening and one that covers topics that we all should be aware of. One in four girls and one in six boys are victims of sexual abuse. She is able to service families and be active in the community and into the schools to educate and inform—especially in the middle school. Advice to parents—start by believing your children if they tell you that they have been sexually assaulted. Another warning is how parents teach their children about their bodies and the words they use. Katie is concerned that children and adults alike are healthy as a whole using some of the support services to help them get there. Self care is important when working in this industry and putting faces with the stories is really tough some times. At The Gateway Center, there are so many opportunities to volunteer or donate goods and be supportive of organizations just like this. We talk all about growing up in a big family and what shaped Katie. Sometimes we are afraid to set boundaries and they truly need to be set and talked about so that you are leading by example. Tune in.Song used by permission “Stomp” written by Donica Knight and Jim HuffMusic "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

Meet Lauren Brendle who is living her life in New York City! Every day is interesting and different for her and adjusting to life in the city versus back in the south. She is a research and data girl, but has come up with some creative job options. This conversation is one that winds through mental health, good self care and social structure of a young adult in the big city. Lauren is a fan of music and in her research of mental health she’s been involved incorporating music and mental health through a playlist service that focuses on how music affects emotions to meet someone where they may be…like if they are expecting anxiety, happiness, depression or sadness. She talks about how our bodies are in tuned. This girls reads and backs up a lot of those thoughts that you may have had as well. Over coming fears is what Lauren has found to be interesting in moving with the city and learning her boundaries. Being and individual is important, but so is finding like mindedness. Her advice to her younger self is spot on for us all…Tune in!Song used by permission”Stomp” written by Donica Knight and Jim HuffMusic "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

There are people who have come along side and helped you become the person that you are today and this episode is one that is worth sharing because this mother/daughter duo are amazing. They are my tribe! Lara Ables is in the school system in Sanford North Carolina and works with students to help them in dual enrollment. She’s married to a police officer and army reservist, so we know the sacrifices she makes on the home front. High schoolers are her calling and she is passionate to help them arrange their building blocks. Lara is a mom of two and she helped me raise my three! Her mom, Theresa Howard joined us in the conversation and what life experience she brings! From Army wife, to pastor’s wife — this lady is making huge contributions to her community. We talk about education, children, parenting and grandparenting, and reminisce just a little. Tune in!Song “STOMP” Used by Permission written by Donica Knight and Jim HuffMusic "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

To not be a victim is a motivator for guest Elisabethe Allen in her martial arts career. Replacing the vulnerability with an activity as constructive and amazing as martial arts brought her to where she is today. Faith and martial arts intertwine In Elisabethe’s life and for that she happy to share her experience and knowledge to empower others. Opening their school January 2018, Red Wolf School of Martial Arts is primarily a self defense focused program.Not to worry, you can find them in competition arenas too.When people don’t have the confidence to stand up for themselves they lack in life skills and MMA can address such feelings as it encompasses self discipline— it helps you be aware of yourself and your surroundings.The conversation went into kids with special needs like autism and Elisabethe’s passion to teach the skills to such individuals. People need MMA for many reasons— like it can help kids or young adults in building relationships with others and looking for the cues and emotions to learning to recognize dangerous situations. We talk about bullying and in learning to respect others and yourself. Don’t miss this episode. Song used by permission “Stomp” written by Donica Knight and Jim HuffMusic "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

Kristen Irions is an Auburn graduate who came to work at the Alabama Nature Center— a part of the Alabama Wildlife Federation located at Lanark in Millbrook, Alabama. This organization is the conservation education side where there is lots of hands-on, up-close views of nature and animals. She found her calling and impacts the wide-eyes and minds of kids every day who are stopping and paying attention to what is going on around them outside. As a kid, Kristen was in the city, but she still interacted with the nature around her. She fell in love with snakes at the age of 5 and developed that passion to know and see snakes. Listening to Kristen, you’ll feel the enthusiasm as she describes the activities of a scientist and how people can do some of the same activities at home that they conduct at the nature center. Kristen is head over heels in love with beekeeping and is learning the complexity of their social structure and the artificial setting that we’ve created to understand these insects—which is part of the fascination of the study. You can even buy honey that they harvest there! Kristen has some insights to share on work passion and on young women creating what they want out of life. Song used by permission "Stomp" written by Donica Knight and Jim HuffMusic "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

This conversation was super with two ladies who have teaching hearts, train and coach parents and teachers alike. Traditions are huge with these two as they raised their children and have made choices to be completely dedicated to the area where they live. Being in different life situations as kids gave them a guide for what they wanted in their lives. These ladies are at one of the largest pre-K systems in the state of Georgia and say that there might be a lot of work in the beginning, but the pay off is huge.Take a listen and you will leave discovering that Pre-K education is more than playing and taking a nap. How do you deal with feelings that you have to be safe and respectful? We know as adults what to do, but as three and four year olds it isn’t so easy. You can’t bite, throw things and kick and scream so what are some strategies you can use? These are a few of the skills that the two featured guests are teaching to teachers in a pre-K environment. We talk about calm down centers or replacement cards for strategies for teachers to use or friendship skills, problem solving and activities that parents can implement so that they don’t lose ground at home. They utilize educational grants and collaborations. The projects that these two launch into are contagious and their goals are met with so much enthusiasm. The Literacy Bus, HeadStart, PAWS, and so much more are on the agenda for this group. Tune in!Song used by permission "Stomp" written by Donica Knight and Jim HuffMusic "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

Start the new year with a young women who is making moves in communications and marketing that bring attention to Alabama. Sarah Stahl is from Jackson county in Alabama…the largest caving community that you’d never imagine being in north Alabama! This young professional is absolutely one to hear and has ideas and energy that is contagious. You will be inspired as she started a couple businesses and learned from some tough mistakes, but she learned what a tight knit community can do in marketing. While we talked, Sarah is a part of the Chamber of Commerce and is incredibly innovative. She changed jobs since we got together for this conversation, but this entrepreneur is on top of economic feasibility and industry and is creative in major ways! Pull up a chair and listen and learn. Linking stories and pictures and getting the community going is how she drives her event coverage. Being part of a community is not always about selling, it is more of pooling the resources and growing together. Want to know about some specifics of marketing tools? Sarah has information of platforms and how she utilizes them. You will want to follow Sarah and find out what she’s doing now!Song used by permission “Stomp” written by Donica Knight and Jim HuffMusic "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

Auburn University graduate Dr Kim Ousley joins Stacked Keys Podcast — you might know her as The House Call Vet or a surgeon at Eastmont Animal Clinic in Montgomery, Alabama or on stage in a seminar training through Practice Enhancement Services. She shares how she found a way to balance and incorporate responsibility to her kids to create the way to keep all of her plates spinning. There are parallels between her career experiences and raising her girls—task completion, work fulfillment and ethic and sacrifice.No day as a veterinarian is a typical planned day—some days are just not for the weak hearted. When coaching young students she makes sure they realize that it is rarely about a day with puppies and kittens and loving on animals. There are long hours, tough decisions and a huge learning library that you dive into. Surgery found Dr. Ousley and she finds that the key is never becoming complacent and always staying on her toes. Particular and mindful are attributes she tries to dig into every day and she’s big on communication with both the animal and people. What and how the animal will respond as well as teaching staff to read patients make the whole experience smoother. Pets are a forerunner part of families and that makes a difference in the approach to preventative care and having better quality of life. Dr. Ousley knew she wanted to be a vet since she was 6 years old— she loves the animal and human bond. The key to success is a combination of work ethic and goals.Song used by permission “Stomp” written by Donica Knight and Jim HuffMusic "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

How can I be true to science and remain interesting is one of the questions that UGA Extension Agent Mary Beth Hornbeck asks herself as she prepares and presents a program to any of her varied audiences—we are a research based organization and bring programming to the public. She talks about the changing needs of people today ranging from populations at the library to the senior citizen homes she works with throughout her calendar. We talk about adjusting with the times by looking at a number of resources to help people know what to do from nutrition and health to shopping habits. Showing people how simple nutrition can be is a top goal— Mary Beth thinks If I can make this on my card table, then you can make this at home. Having fun makes healthy eating easy and eating by color takes away the fear and pre-set notions…and who says you have to eat it with a fork? Tune in to hear how Mary Beth learns how to overcome fear and be insightful and embrace loneliness. Check some of her favorite authors too—Lisa Genova and Rachel Held Evans—for women with perspective.Love how she talks about not taking it all on at once, but to do a really good job.Song used by permission “Stomp” written by Donica Knight and Jim HuffMusic "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

Traci works in the childbirth world to help others-- she came into this profession through her own experiences, but she points out that one has to figure out their own load and process those feelings before helping others in a different arena. This is about doula —which is a person who provides emotional and physical support to you during your pregnancy and childbirth. Traci speaks to keeping your power and how one can learn that both for themselves in instructing and to teach that to clients. If you have questions—this is a wonderful place to start! The basis to be mindful is in keeping perspective and confidence and maintaining your importance and such encouragement is really for us all in that we all have something to bring to the table. She’s a teacher and a coach and a life encourager who puts forth mindfulness. We talk about opinions and keeping them in check when people download to you. We talk about Traci through her adoption story, which happened close post Roe vs Wade. You’ll hear a bit about that and how her life path happened as she answers some of those questions—she’s passionate about everything that she takes on in life from raising kids, providing their educations and directions and creating learning environments in her daily job. Tune in!Song used by permission “Stomp” written by Donica Knight and Jim HuffMusic "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

Denise Spradley bought the farm and is the owner of Fritz Farm in Cordele, Georgia. This 23 acres is sprawled out in a pecan orchard and is a special events venue. She loves the stories of people and bringing their special moments to the farm to celebrate as they enjoy being in the outdoors walking the orchard and experiencing her slice of life—she really was a city girl but took this adventure on and is at peace. How does one change their life completely? You jump in. Denise brings people together to enjoy the farm and create new memories. It is a breathtaking place and to know that a woman on her own is reinventing herself and has a special super power that can change the world.Song used by permission "Stomp" written by Donica Knight and Jim HuffMusic "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

Teacher and Author Janie Steindorf is featured on this episode of Stacked Keys Podcast. She wastes no time diving into life callings and living actively and daily a faith in Christ that she owns. Janie is in the classroom and shares experiences she’s gathered—she’s learned to listen. One method for growth she’s implemented is to plant yourself in different experiences, learn and disciple. We talk about boundaries and being sure that she takes care of herself and be able to give her best. An overarching theme in the conversation is that “there’s grace for that”—her spirituality influences her choices and her outward pushes. There’s talk of international travels and how she learned to accept and respect cultures. As Janie launched her teaching career, she saw the need for a book that taught skills in one book and she put her heart in Montgomery that takes the old into new and the people in places to make history. Tune in for an uplifting glimpse into her world.Song used by permission "Stomp" written by Donica Knight and Jim HuffMusic "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

Melissa Warnke settled in her job as the Director of Communications at the Alabama State Bar Association a bit longer since we recorded and It’s exciting to introduce her to you. She continues involvement with a broad spectrum of tools to impact her audience/members. Follow experiences and open yourself to opportunities is premium advice that she shares. As a young professional and mom, balancing life is a challenge but finding community and connecting to people is key. Melissa reflects on experiences that are built on top of each other to build a network that has launched a fulfilling career. Melissa talks about shopping experiences from her retail expertise and how it is changing and how it can personalize—sometimes through social media or popup venues. Storytelling—sharing the real heartbeat of the industry in which you are working brings value. She a part of professional organizations like the Public Relations Council of Alabama, Junior League and more.Song “STOMP” used by permission of Donica Knight and Jim HuffMusic "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

Eloise Stewart of Eloise Design Company is spot on with figuring out the life and career challenges both for herself and for others and creating a creative space for others. The decision to begin her business started with helping people, but she first reached out to others to help her start out and she looked toward honest mentors. School was a struggle for her but she worked hard to memorize or study to make things click and that helped her become the entrepreneur she is today and makes her a better teacher with bite size learning steps. Eloise says her biggest strength are the people put in her path who she collaborates and partners with who teach and stretch her and give her opportunities. Her team divides work and they spend time monthly to brainstorm and get the plans set with everyone contributing both for their own company and the clients they serve. Books that impress Eloise include Contagious: Why Things Catch On by Jonah Berger. Marketing is relational for both individuals and businesses—need to stop comparing themselves to others.Song used by permission “STOMP” written by Donica Knight and Jim HuffMusic "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

Laura Bethea joins us on Stacked Keys Podcast to share insights on business, personal growth, raising kids and marriage. She’s an Alabama native and is launching her life in small town USA…not a temporary community for them. She started out in film and graphic design and when she landed in Florence it’s been a path. Laura is candid and I think lets you inside to feel the fears, frustrations and growth. Laura has lost a job and created three business launches. We go into ennagrams—Laura is a 7—she’s creative, sharp mind and fast brain BUT doesn’t get caught up in the is this good enough. To her younger self she says that you can serve your family from a place of fullness. Tune in!Song used by permission "Stomp" written by DOnica Knight and Jim HuffMusic "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

Being a female leader in the food industry is hard and she shares a frustrating experience where she didn't get treated the same as male counterparts. Kala says she’s stubborn, sassy and a hard worker and knowing her own personalty is one way for her to know how and why she acts under pressure and it makes her a better employer and employee. Kala, a culinary/business graduate from the University of North Alabama, is in the culinary world serving up dishes that perhaps your Grandmother created. Kayla grew up playing competitive sports and says that helped her in the culinary industry. She says that you don’t get to quit and you have to work hard —just like it is on a sport team. You can find both Kayla and her husband in the kitchen when they aren’t working—they switch off who’s cooking when. When she talks about marriage, she and her spouse have the thought that each partner is giving 100 percent in the relationship, not 50/50.Hard work pays off in the relationship world and in the work world.Life is mentally and physically hard, but somehow they manage with an awesome work team. This couple spends a week of their vacation in Hawaii — from the beach, to the rainforest, to the mountains — what a romantic place to spend with that someone special. With the Hawaiian influence, she taught herself to play the ukulele.We talk about her thoughts of education, personalty types and so much more! Join us and subscribe!Song used by permission "Stomp" by Donica Knight and Jim HuffMusic "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

Our guest on this episode is Monica Mitchell who’s the Main Street director in Cordele, Georgia. She explained the Main Street marketing concept and shares some of the downtown love—the heart of soul of the town. There are an average of 85 trains a day that go through Cordele —the locals say it sounds like money when those trains go through the community. There are only two other diamond tracks in the state of Georgia and one is in Cordele, Georgia. So much happening in this little community! Rural communities sometimes lose the young people, but through educating the public of what is happening in the area both the appreciation and love can grow. Monica shares insights of the importance of mentoring and what it’s like to raise a family in rural America.Song used by permission "Stomp" by Donica Knight and Jim HuffMusic "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

Welcome to Stacked Keys Podcast I’m your host Amy StackhouseA podcast to feature women who are impressive in the work world-- or in raising a family -- or who have hobbies that can make us all be encouraged. Want to hear what makes these women passionate and get up in the morning or what they wish they had known earlier in life? Grab your keys and STOMP to your own drum. April Cheek has so much to share about real estate, adoption, family, married life and more. Want to know if you love a house? Imagine it at Christmas or holiday time. Adoption? Wow there are tons of aspects to consider. April encourages preconceived notions to stop. She hammers through some tough topics that every single person needs to hear. It’s a chance for pulling back the layers and examine. Motherhood can turn life upside down…so take it a day at the time. People pleaser? That’s a tough nut to crack. Share your heart and realize that people have options on everything and being a voice is very hard…and it’s okay. This conversation sure opened some moments to shed light in areas, so tune in and share away! Make sure you catch her husband who's a guest on this week @thedailystackSong used by permission "Stomp" written by Donica Knight and Jim Huff.Music "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

Connie Bainbridge is on the podcast and you will be exhausted hearing what goes into her day! But at the same time you'll be inspired by her passion for the communities where she’s plugged in— the right blend lands someone to spend their dollars to come to a community. She’s been involved in economic development for many years and that means she knows a lot of people. It is relationships, relationships, relationships and Connie is out to make a community better and fulfill what she calls her purpose and worthy work. She definitely has a servant's heart. She is a lifelong learner! Tune in!Song used by permission: "Stomp" written by Donica Knight and Jim Huff.Music "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

Lynn was in a very male dominated career path when she entered management and she knocked it out of the park! She’s got success in life and can tell you that there’s one thing that you just can’t buy and that is time. Meet Lynn Tucker Kyle. We dive into conversation and cover some of the corner stones of our lives and she gives some wine buying and drinking tips that help to educate. Lynn and host Amy are long time friends—Lynn was actually Amy’s boss years ago and she had standards for customer service that she instilled in her employees daily—listening to a customer and helping them discover what they need is a skill. The conversation covers aspects of customer service, hard work, social interaction skills and friendship that stand the test of time.Traveling with Lynn gives her companions the non-touristy side of travel where finding the smaller and the unique aspects of a city is where the beauty lives. Her mantra is that everything she does in life is an experience and she entered the travel industry so she could teach people to learn how to travel on domestic and international trips so they can create memories.We laughed about the boxes we try to check as parents—sometimes you can’t claim credit for things your kids do right, but we want to! Biggest advice Lynn has for parents is to build communication so there’s an open line of communication long before teenage years. Don’t always be the talker, be a listener too. We talk about her son Trevor’s children’s book called “The Button Eyed Bear” and the impact of that story.Song used by permission "Stomp" written by Donica Knight and Jim Huff.Music "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

Golden Radish Awards are the chance to showcase. To shine light on the efforts of those in school districts across Georgia who are getting local grown produce on the plates of students and who are integrating creative techniques to teach the process of farm to school — where the food starts and all of the different aspects to get it to the plate. Much of the education is incorporated through hands on activity and covers state academic standardsThe Award is presented by the Georgia Department of Education, Georgia Department of Agriculture, Georgia Department of Public Health, the UGA Cooperative Extension, and Georgia Organics. Winning LEAs are recognized by the leaders of these five groups every October.  90 Georgia school districts with outstanding Farm to School accomplishments were recognized at the 2019 Golden Radish Awards.Song used by permission "Stomp" written by Donica Knight and Jim Huff.Music "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

Marie and Pat are amazing women who've experienced some of life’s ups and downs and are living life fully. They are beautiful independent women. Marie lived in Germany during wartime as a child and shares some of her experiences with us. She also embraces adventure and continues to travel to exciting destinations. Pat is independent and determined even as a young child. At 14, Pat came down with Polio and says that maybe it was a blessing as it changed her whole life. Both ladies worked a variety of jobs that are fascinating as they raised their children. Before you finish listening, you will feel encouraged to seize the moment and see the opportunities as they come your way.These two were precious. My take away was to not ever stop living. The conversation was fun and I see that relationships and memories build a lifetime.Song used by permission "Stomp" written by Donica Knight and Jim Huff.Music "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

A lot happens in this episode with Stella Williams Bailey of Be A Star With Stella! Talk about success and an advocate for women! This lady is honored across Georgia for her impact. She coaches individuals to be their best self as they find the confidence to meet their goals and she challenges us all throughout this conversation as it winds from finding your purpose and direction to bringing awareness of individuals with special needs—and practical ways to show support. Tune in because I KNOW you’ll enjoy meeting Stella as much as I did!Song used by permission "Stomp" written by Donica Knight and Jim HuffMusic "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

Mandi Fortner Is an amazing lady and a business owner— State Farm Insurance in Millbrook, Alabama. She started her agency from scratch and is conscientious to take care of her employees and customers. She works with her husband, Josh and they have found that they do have to draw the lines between business and home life. Being involved in community she knows the benefits to have a heart to serve others, build centers of influence so that you can form the deep and meaningful aspects of life.Mandi tries to keep balance to family and work and community service. There are several aspects of Mandi’s life that intentional and describes herself as a “nerd” — she loves to read and learn! We cover topics from business, a rhythm of rest, priorities and even blending in a date night in there with husband, Josh. They opened their world through hosting an exchange student and she saw elements in her life that helped her be who she is today. Tune in for this week’s episode.Song used by permission "Stomp" written by Donica Knight and Jim HuffMusic "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

This episode is a fabulous conversation with Angie Ellis who is the Ellis Brothers Pecan family—you may know them as We’re Nuts. Angie worked in the financial industry for 30 years and found her place at the table in industries and organizations that are predominately male dominated and she rocked making impact in the community, in schools and industry.They have a 4th generation working with pecans through her son joining the company where they grow, process and put incredible flavors on pecans and sell them all over the world. Learning about the branding process and how they market is tremendous in the relationships they build in places outside the United States. She talks about the health and nutrition aspects of the pecan and how exports help that market. She looks in the long run and the pecan industry as they are diversifying their markets and looking at other countries. Angie is involved in traveling and marketing the products. The stories she tells — like the set up shop in New York to introduce the pecan with its nutrition value and pulling growers together with one voice and she says the pecan industry has to educate. Work isn’t all that defines Angie, she says “everything we do is not what defines us and who we really are.” Having inner confidence is important. We also talked about family and positive messages for moms and kids alike. She would tell her kids when they were snow skiing that if they weren’t falling going down the mountain then they weren’t skiing to their potential. Tune in and subscribe!Song used by permission "Stomp" written by Donica Knight and Jim HuffMusic "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

Kate Stackhouse is the guest on this episode and you are in for a treat. She is a teacher in Siler City, North Carolina. They have opportunities in their school system that include a dual language program, which exposes kids to so many different cultures and they graduate with a bilingual degree. Kate is a believer in kids being read to and continuing that habit. Want a gifted child? Read to them, talk to them, spend time to them and have dinner together. She gears her classes to meet the kids where they are and talks about differentiation classrooms … that means the teacher delivers lessons at varying levels of difficulty based on the ability of each student. Advice to young ladies is that they need to do what they want to and not let a relationship determine where you go.Song used by permission "Stomp" written by Donica Knight and Jim HuffMusic "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

This episode features Suzy Stewart Gandy. What a go getter she is and seems to have more than 24 hours in a day!! She has been a part of the YMCA Camps for years and she left Alabama and went to North Carolina. Know people who seem like they’ve been a leader basically their whole life? That is Suzy She believes that kids can be creative and says that kids want to be responsible and independent. She loves being the person that kids can come to when they need a little extra help one-on-one. A big take away? Parents, kids need to know how to swim. Suzy also talks about peer pressures and advice is that one should take initiative and get things done that you see need to be done.Song used by permission "STOMP" written by Donica Knight and Jim Huff.Music "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

Kimberly Mershon is flying high as a pilot these days…that’s after she put her dreams on hold. She graduated from the aviation program at Auburn University years ago and got busy with life Kimberly is active in her community and in her role as wife and mom of three adult boys. She’s now a Certified Flight Instructor, and Instrument Rated Commercial Pilot AS/MEL. The words “give me a reason to fly” are the words Kimberly is living by these days as she just started teaching in Montgomery, Alabama. These wise words “Believe in yourself, pursue your dreams, and never let your dreams die” are the theme of Kimberly’s life. She gives back to her community and is a leader.Song used by permission "Stomp" written by Donica Knight and Jim HuffMusic "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

Robin Gray is former teacher of 24 years so the insight she has on youth today is insightful. She’s a part of the Peach Park family in Clanton Alabama which is known up and down the highway throughout Alabama. A definite spot on the tourist trail. Turning a fruit stand into a tourist attraction is, in part, what earned the Gray family, owners and operators of Peach Park the Bronze Alabama Retailer of the Year Award in the Annual Sales $1 Million to $5 Million category. Robin gives us a bit of background on this fabulous property and some of the plans they have coming up. She's a mom of boys who are hard working right along side of the family. As a talented buyer for the gift shop, she is always listening to customers like she recently added a focus for pet lovers. Robin is involved in the Marketing and Merchandising and is the Social Media Manager at Peach Park. Don’t cross her, she was the high school archery coach and has quite an aim.Song used by permission "Stomp" written by Donica Knight and Jim HuffMusic "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

Sherry Evans is an amazing woman! She’s married and has a super career serving others. From her military service to where she is today. She’s a mom of a college age son and a true asset to her community. She serves as the director of the Crisp County Community Council. They are part of Family Connection, an initiative making measurable improvements for children and families in Georgia. You can hear her heart in this podcast and learn about some of the ways that the community where she serves supports the vision for all children to be healthy, primed for school, and succeed when they get there; that all families are stable, self-sufficient, and productive; and that every community is vibrant, robust, and thriving.Sherry has also jumped back into her education to become an Art Therapist and works at The Gateway Center to incorporate art into helping victims of sexual assault and their families. It’s a creative method of expression used as a therapeutic technique and it is fascinating Song used by permission “Stomp” written by Donica Knight and Jim HuffMusic "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff

Miriam Edwards is so energetic and has a passion for art that is contagious. She is the executive director of the Crisp County Arts Alliance whose focus is to be a part of the development and growth of cultural activities through art education, promoting local artists and having super creative programs and special events for the public. She teaches arts and crafts to kids and is involved in the Empire theater to pull artists into opportunities for set design and more. She’s passionate and encouraging for people making art by just getting started—she’s an art advocate across Georgia and impacts her community through various events including hosting classes and weekly story time for toddlers that impacts both children and parents/caregivers.Song used by permission “Stomp” written by Donica Knight and Jim HuffMusic "STOMP" used by permission of artist Donica Knight Holdman and Jim Huff