In this week’s episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, we step into a story of profound loss, unwavering faith, and extraordinary love. Nancy Kinnear joins us to share her daughter Savanah’s remarkable journey—a life lived with grace, strength, and purpose, even through the challenges of metastatic breast cancer.
Savanah was more than her diagnosis. She was a dreamer, a creator, and an advocate. From starting her own earring business to using her voice to inspire and uplift others battling cancer, Savanah radiated hope. Her story is about love that transcends hardships and a faith that remains steadfast even in the darkest of times.
Nancy opens up about what it means to keep her daughter’s legacy alive, not just as a grieving mother, but as a witness to the beauty God can weave through pain. This heartfelt conversation isn’t just about loss; it’s about life, resilience, and the extraordinary ways to honor those we love. To read an article about Savanah’s journey and wedding click here. To read Savanah’s obituary click here.
If you want to support Savanah’s legacy, follow her Instagram and Facebook accounts.
Tune in for a deeply moving episode that will leave you inspired to find strength in your own journey.
🎧 Available now on your favorite podcast platforms. And don’t miss the special tribute to Savannah on our YouTube channel!
🎄 The holiday season is here, and while it’s a time for joy and celebration, it can also bring its fair share of financial stress. Does the thought of overspending or holiday debt sound familiar? You’re not alone—and this week’s episode of Thrive by The Rising Musehas you covered!
In our latest conversation, hosts Naty and Veda sit down with renowned financial expert Ralph Estep Jr. from Saggio Accounting+PLUS. Together, we uncover the keys to celebrating Christmas with intention, love, and financial wisdom. Ralph shares simple yet powerful tips to help you stay within your budget while creating meaningful holiday memories that focus on what truly matters—faith, family, and togetherness.
💡 Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn in this episode:
How to create a holiday spending plan that actually works
The “24-Hour Rule” for avoiding impulse buys
Creative gift ideas that won’t break the bank
How to keep Christ at the center of your Christmas celebrations
Ralph also touches on the emotional side of the season, sharing ways to connect with loved ones, embrace gratitude, and support others who might be struggling. Plus, he’s giving our listeners an exclusive free resource to help make this your most mindful and stress-free holiday yet!
Ralph V. Estep Jr. is a distinguished finance, accounting, and technology professional with a dynamic career spanning decades. As the principal at Saggio Management Group, Inc., Ralph has built a reputation for leadership, innovation, and excellence in financial management and entrepreneurship. His academic achievements include a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Delaware and an MBA from Wilmington University. Over the years, Ralph has earned prestigious professional designations, including Licensed Public Accountant (LPA) and Accredited Business Accountant (ABA). His career highlights include serving as CFO at Westminster Presbyterian Church, Executive Vice President at American Spirit Federal Credit Union, and controller at a prominent Delaware law firm, where his innovations in financial and operational systems significantly advanced organizational efficiency.
In addition to his professional endeavors, Ralph is deeply committed to leveraging technology to modernize financial practices, founding cutting-edge firms such as The Estep Group and Capital Cloud Solutions. Beyond finance, Ralph co-founded Estep Farm LLC, raising Black Angus cows, and shares his financial expertise through the “Ask Ralph” podcast and radio show. His commitment to community and education is reflected in his mentorship roles and participation in leadership training programs. Happily married to Jennifer Estep with two sons, Ralph balances a thriving career with a rich family life, leaving an indelible mark in both professional and personal spheres.
✨ Ready to shift your mindset this holiday season? Click the link to listen now and learn how you can make Christmas memorable without overspending. Don’t forget to grab your free holiday guide here—it’s our first gift to you this Christmas!
In this latest episode of Thrive by the Rising Muse, hosts Naty and Veda dive into one of the most challenging conversations for any parent – when a child questions their faith. This episode features Heather Hart, who opens up about her journey after her daughter expressed doubts about Christianity. With raw honesty, Heather shares how this moment reshaped their family dynamic and taught her to balance unconditional love with the values she holds dear.
Heather Hart is a passionate writer, speaker, and devoted mother who shares her journey of faith and resilience in navigating the complexities of parenting. Known for her candid insights and heartfelt stories, Heather writes extensively on topics of faith, family, and personal growth. She is the author of a powerful blog post on handling a child’s faith crisis, where she draws from her own experiences to help other parents facing similar challenges. Heather’s approach is grounded in love, empathy, and a deep commitment to fostering strong, compassionate relationships within her family and community.
Heather’s story goes beyond a personal faith crisis; it’s a testament to resilience, grace, and the art of “letting go” while still holding onto love. From emotional conversations about belief to the wisdom that only comes from experience, this episode is filled with heartfelt insights for parents and families of all backgrounds. Heather reveals how she finds peace amidst uncertainty and how her faith continues to guide her through the ups and downs of parenthood. Check out Heather’s book Candid Moments.
Tune in to hear Heather’s inspiring journey and discover valuable insights on how to navigate difficult conversations about faith and identity with loved ones. This episode ofThrive by the Rising Museis not just a conversation; it’s a guide to thriving with empathy, patience, and resilience. Don’t miss it – this could be the encouragement you need to handle your own family’s journey with grace and hope.
In today’s fast-paced world, it’s more important than ever to support teens in navigating their mental health. But finding ways to connect with and empower young people can be challenging. That’s why in our latest episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, we’re thrilled to host Emani Owens, a passionate advocate for teen mental wellness. Emani has dedicated her life to creating safe spaces where teens feel heard, respected, and encouraged to express themselves.
Emani’s journey began with a simple yet powerful vision: to foster a community that values mental health support for teens. She’s now the founder of Owens Teen Empowerment, where she hosts seminars and online events to help teens openly discuss their challenges, build self-confidence, and discover healthy outlets for self-expression.
During our talk, Emani shared impactful insights about the pressures teens face today—from the allure and pitfalls of social media to the importance of self-expression through tools like journaling. Her unique perspective highlights the struggles teens encounter as they build their identities in an often overwhelming world.
And as the holiday season approaches, Emani is preparing for a special December event designed to bring teens and parents together in a safe space for open communication and healing. Whether you’re a teen, a parent, or simply someone interested in making a positive impact, this episode is a must-listen.
Emani Owens, an educational teacher, business owner, and the inspiring founder of Owens Teen Empowerment. Imani is dedicated to empowering young teens to excel academically, emotionally, and socially. Through her work, she provides guidance on communication, healing, and growth, and encourages teens to embrace learning as a pathway to a brighter future for themselves and their families. Connect with Emani on Facebook and Instagram
As the days grow shorter and colder, many of us start to feel the subtle shift in our moods. But for some, these winter blues are more than just a passing phase – they’re a real struggle. In this eye-opening episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, we’re joined by licensed professional counselor Alexandra Mays from Mindful Steps, who sheds light on Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and the toll it can take on mental well-being.
From explaining how SAD differs from general depression to sharing everyday strategies for managing symptoms, Alexandra offers a compassionate and informative perspective on living through seasonal changes. Whether it’s the impact of reduced sunlight on our “happiness chemical” or how our sleep patterns shift in the colder months, Alexandra breaks down the science behind SAD in a way that’s both accessible and deeply relatable.
Are there ways to prevent SAD? How can we support loved ones going through this seasonal struggle? And what small, meaningful changes can we make to nurture our mental health as we enter the winter season? Get ready to discover answers to these questions and more. This conversation is packed with insights and practical advice that will leave you better prepared to thrive all year round.
Alexandra Mayes is a Licensed Therapist and a Clinical Director of several different clinics that focus on recovery for those struggling with addiction. She has been in the mental health field for over ten years now and has worked with children, teens, and adults. In 2021 she decided to open Mindful Steps with her husband. Mindful Steps is a group practice to expand her reach of care. In addition to receiving her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Tennessee State University, she also received her master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from there as well. She is a business owner, mental health advocate, wife, and mother of two daughters.
Winter Blues: Grief and Loss Over the Holidays (11/20/2024)
Mindful Steps: Healthy goals for the New Year. (01/08/2025)
Mindful Steps for Mindful Care: 5k race to raise funds for our non-profit to provide free and/or reduced rates for webinars, conferences, workshops, and wellness programs for marginalized communities. (05/26/2025)
Mindful Care Wellness Program: an 8-week program to address emotional, mental, physical, spiritual, social, and vocational forms of self-care through a combination of Zoom, and in-personal workshops for psychoeducation. The program will include mindfulness art sessions, yoga, financial advisors, breath work, health/fitness, nutrition, and mental health guest speakers throughout the eight weeks. (05/31/2025 -07/23/2025)
Tune in now for a conversation that promises to warm up even the coldest of winter days.
In today’s hyper-connected world, it’s all too easy to fall into the trap of comparison. Social media feeds are filled with curated lives, impressive achievements, and seemingly perfect moments. It’s natural to feel like we’re falling short when we see others shining. However, it’s crucial to remember that comparing ourselves to others can undermine our self-worth and distort our perception of success.
“For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.” — Galatians 1:10
The Illusion of Comparison
When we compare ourselves to others, we often focus on their highlight reels while overlooking our own progress and achievements. Everyone has their struggles, insecurities, and setbacks—things that are rarely shared in public forums. It’s essential to recognize that behind every seemingly perfect photo or achievement, there’s a unique story filled with challenges and growth.
“Each one should test their own actions. Then they can take pride in themselves alone, without comparing themselves to someone else, for each one should carry their own load.” — Galatians 6:4-5
Understanding Your Value
Each person has their own path, shaped by individual experiences, strengths, and passions. Instead of measuring your worth against someone else’s success, take time to reflect on your journey. Acknowledge your accomplishments, no matter how small they may seem. Celebrating your milestones can foster a sense of fulfillment and help you appreciate your unique contributions to the world.
“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” — Ephesians 2:10
Shifting Your Mindset
When you recognize your inherent value, you can begin to cultivate a healthier mindset. Here are some strategies to help you shift your focus:
Practice Gratitude: Regularly remind yourself of what you’re thankful for in your life. This can help shift your focus from what others have to the abundance in your own life. “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:18
Set Personal Goals: Define success on your own terms. Set goals that resonate with your values and aspirations rather than those imposed by societal standards. “Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” — Proverbs 16:3
Limit Social Media Exposure: Consider curating your social media feeds to follow accounts that inspire and uplift you. Unfollow those that trigger feelings of inadequacy. “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” — Proverbs 4:23
Cultivate Self-Compassion: Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer a friend. Acknowledge your struggles without judgment. “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” — Ephesians 4:32
Engage in Self-Reflection: Spend time contemplating your strengths and areas for growth. Journaling can be an effective tool to track your progress and remind yourself of your journey. “Examine yourselves, to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves.” — 2 Corinthians 13:5
You Are Enough
Remember, you are better than you think you are. Your worth is inherent, not defined by comparison. Embracing your individuality allows you to cultivate confidence and authenticity. When you stop comparing yourself to others, you open the door to self-acceptance and a richer, more fulfilling life. “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” — Psalm 139:14
Ultimately, the journey of self-discovery and self-acceptance is ongoing. Focus on becoming the best version of yourself, not a copy of someone else. Celebrate your uniqueness, for that is where your true strength lies. You have a remarkable journey ahead, and it’s entirely yours to embrace.
Are you struggling to move forward after loss, or perhaps supporting someone who is? You won’t want to miss this powerful episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse! This week, hosts Naty and Veda sit down with Carolyn J. Murphy—author, coach, and certified peer recovery specialist—who knows the depths of grief and the heights of healing.
In this episode, Carolyn shares her personal journey of loss, anger, and eventual transformation. Known as the “Mindshift Coach,” she reveals how shifting your mindset can be the key to unlocking emotional freedom. With profound insights from her bookGod, Why Did You Save Me?, Carolyn offers practical steps for those feeling stuck in grief and searching for a way out.
Whether you’re looking for tips on how to cope with grief, curious about how faith can carry you through dark times, or simply need some encouragement, this conversation will open your eyes to the possibility of healing. Carolyn reminds us that grief isn’t just about death—it’s about any kind of loss. And more importantly, it’s about finding purpose again.
Get ready for an episode filled with honesty, compassion, and wisdom. Carolyn’s message of hope is exactly what we all need to hear.
Highlights You Won’t Want to Miss:
How Carolyn learned to manage her grief after years of wearing a “mask.”
Why the first step to healing is giving yourself permission to grieve.
Practical strategies to break free from emotional cycles like anger and perfectionism.
The powerful role of faith and mindset in the recovery process.
Tune in now and take the first step towards healing. This conversation could be the spark that changes everything!
Catch the full episode of Thrive by The Rising Musewherever you listen to podcasts or click on the picture below. Don’t forget to subscribe and share this episode with anyone needing it. Grief doesn’t have to keep you stuck—join us as we learn how to move forward together.
In this episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, we bring you an unforgettable story of resilience, faith, and the power of forgiveness. Shelly Edwards Jorgensen, author of Beautiful Ashes, joins us to share her harrowing yet inspiring journey. Imagine enduring the unimaginable—losing your mother to a violent crime, living through abuse, and facing overwhelming medical challenges. Shelly has survived these trials and found peace and healing in the most miraculous ways.
Through her conversation with hosts Naty and Veda, Shelly opens up about her path to healing and the pivotal moments that tested her faith. What kept her going? How did she learn to forgive in the face of such betrayal and loss? And, most importantly, what lessons does she want to share with others walking through their own darkness?
This episode is a powerful testament to the human spirit’s ability to rise above even the deepest of ashes. Tune in to hear how Shelly’s faith, courage, and the support of loved ones carried her through—and how her story can inspire you to overcome whatever life may throw your way.
Shelly attended Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah where she was the first female to graduate with a degree in Manufacturing Engineering. After graduation, she moved back to her home state of Michigan and landed her dream job as a manufacturing engineer to start off her 20+ year career for Ford Motor Company. A few years into her engineering career, she decided to go back to school to get her MBA.
Shelly has spent over 30 years serving within her church congregation and community. She has always enjoyed serving others.
Shelly enjoys wood working and has amassed a workshop of her dreams. She also enjoys being outside in the fresh air, trail riding in her ATV and enjoying the Great Lakes boating & jet skiing.
Shelly is happily married to her husband Glenn. She is a step-mother, grandmother, and adored aunt!
In our fast-paced world, many women are juggling more than ever—careers, family, relationships, and personal goals. If you’ve ever felt like you’re trying to keep it all together while burning out at both ends, you’re not alone. The good news? You don’t have to live like this, and there is a way to find balance.
On this week’s episode of Thrive by The Rising Muse, hosts Naty and Veda sit down with Dr. Kaci Lacey, a renowned psychologist and founder of H & L Legacy Consulting. Dr. Lacey has dedicated her career to empowering women, helping them navigate the challenges of leadership, life, and burnout. With personal experiences as a former C-suite executive and as a mom, Dr. Lacey understands the pressures women face and shares strategies to reclaim confidence and live authentically without falling into the burnout trap.
In this insightful conversation, we tackle:
The signs of burnout that go beyond the workplace.
How perfectionism can lead to burnout and how to let go of it.
The role of workplace culture in burnout and what needs to change.
Practical strategies to balance career, family, and personal fulfillment.
How to build unshakeable confidence and prevent burnout in leadership roles.
Dr. Lacey offers a fresh perspective on how women can overcome the unrealistic expectations placed on them—whether in the office or at home—and why authenticity is key to thriving.
But we’re not giving it all away here! Tune in to hear Dr. Lacey’s empowering story of grit, resilience, and practical tips that will inspire you to take control of your life and prevent burnout before it takes over.
Dr. Kasi Lacey is a psychologist and executive coach dedicated to supporting women and fostering thriving workplaces. Moving out on her own at 16, she earned her Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology by age 26, driven by her passion for leadership and change. As a former vice president/c-suite executive, she led diverse departments and secured significant federal grants, and her service on various boards reflects her commitment to community and equity. Dr. Lacey’s experience spans various settings, where she has helped women build confidence and excel in their roles. She aims to work with corporations and organizations to create environments where employees feel valued, motivated, and supported. She is a highly regarded speaker, with expertise in leadership, psychology in the workplace, and positive change, and is driven by her two daughters to inspire the next generation of leaders.
Dr. Lacey is launching a course this October. “Building Unshakable Confidence in 6 Weeks” — a transformative journey designed to help you step into your most powerful, authentic self. She created this course because she understands the unique challenges women face in leadership roles — from battling imposter syndrome and self-doubt to struggling with work-life balance and finding their authentic voice in a world that often tells us to shrink. She’s been there herself, and has seen countless women hold back from their true potential simply because they lack the confidence to fully own their strengths. This course is crafted to meet you where you are and guide you toward where you want to be. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or someone just stepping into your power, the tools and insights provided here will help you break free from self-imposed limitations, cultivate a mindset for growth, and lead with confidence and authenticity. (Sign up for the newsletter at here to be the first to get the details on date, discount price, etc.)
In part two of our Thrive by The Rising Museseries on domestic violence, faith, and healing, we delve even deeper into the complexities of escaping abusive relationships. Joined again by trauma therapist Tabitha Westbrook, we uncover essential strategies for survival, including how to create a safety plan, the importance of finding your voice, and the power of faith in healing.
How Can You Prepare for the Unexpected?
Tabitha shares crucial tips on how to create a personalized safety plan—from where to safely store vital documents to the simple items that could make a world of difference in a crisis (like clean underwear and a toothbrush). But more than that, she emphasizes the importance of protecting yourself emotionally and spiritually during the process of leaving an abusive relationship.
Faith as a Guide Through Darkness
As we explore the role of faith, we discuss how churches can be a source of support, but also where they sometimes fall short. Tabitha doesn’t shy away from the difficult conversations, like reconciling faith with the harsh realities of abuse and understanding God’s true intentions when it comes to divorce and protection for the vulnerable.
Why This Episode is a Must-Listen
Whether you’re a survivor, a supporter, or just someone looking to learn, this episode is filled with actionable insights and heartfelt wisdom. From personal stories to professional advice, Tabitha’s passion for helping those affected by domestic violence shines through, offering hope and practical steps for anyone who may be in a dangerous situation.
Tabitha Westbrook, LMFT-S, LCMHC-QS, LPC-S, is a licensed therapist who helps people who have messy, funky pasts (and sometimes messy, funky presents) live amazing, empowered lives today. In addition to being a licensed counselor and supervisor, Tabitha is an EMDR Certified Therapist and Approved Consultant, Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, and Certified Christian Trauma Care Provider.
She’s the Founder & CEO of The Journey and The Process, a private practice with offices in North Carolina and Texas, specializing in complex trauma, with a focus on domestic abuse and coercive control. Tabitha is a nationally known expert and speaker on domestic abuse & coercive control, providing training to churches, therapists, and agencies. She also helps train domestic abuse advocates through Called to Peace Ministries’ faith-based advocacy training, and she co-facilitates the G5 Men’s Batterer Intervention Group. Tabitha is the author of the forthcoming book Body & Soul, Healed & Whole: An Invitational Guide to Healthy Sexuality After Trauma, Abuse, and Coercive Control.
If you or someone you know is in danger, please reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 or visit thehotline.org. Help is available—you are not alone.
Naty Matos 