Excelsior!

In this episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Lonesome Dan in my studio for a truly special conversation. A calm, sweet soul, Dan shares his journey as a talented guitarist who has the rare gift of reinterpreting piano music on guitar while also composing his own songs. Joining us was my husband, Jerred—a longtime fan of Dan’s music—and our 7-month-old son, Wilhelm, making for a warm, p...

In this episode, I sit down with one of my local idols and one of the most talented singers I know — the incredible Jelly from the locally legendary band The Jelly Project. Having her in my studio was such an honor, and to make it even sweeter, our sons joined us for the conversation! We dive into the rise of The Jelly Project, their impact on the local music scene, why they eventually went their...

This week, I sit down with personal trainer Walter Foster-Bolton to talk about his unbelievable journey over the past year. After discovering he had a rare heart condition that nearly took his life, Walter was told he could never lift weights again — a devastating blow for someone whose life revolved around fitness. But Walter’s story didn’t end there. Through a series of wild twists and an unshak...

This episode’s a little different — it’s a walk-and-talk with Sxulz (Elliott), a young local rapper who’s bringing fresh energy to the scene. We recorded this on the way to his photo shoot for some new promo shots, and the conversation just flowed. Elliott talks about what the music scenes like right now, why he loves creating, and how things have changed since he first started. It’s real, unfilte...

This episode is a little different than usual. Back in August, I had the honor of photographing George’s 70th birthday celebration — a day filled with laughter, stories, and so much love from the people who knew him best. During the party, I decided to record a few of those memories, not knowing just how special they would become. George has since passed, and this episode is shared as a celebratio...

Ever wonder what hypnosis really is? Spoiler alert: it’s not about clucking like a chicken! In this episode, Britleigh chats with certified hypnotherapist Joshua Peters about how hypnosis actually works and how it can help you break bad habits, calm anxiety, and tap into your most powerful self. It’s all about rewiring the mind in the coolest way possible. Tune in for a mix of science, stories, an...

This one’s a little different from my usual Excelsior! episodes. It’s a throwback to when I was pregnant — and so was my friend, Dani Lo! We decided to hit record and just chat about what it’s really like being first-time “geriatric” moms-to-be (yes, that’s the term they use, and yes, we laugh about it a lot). It’s raw, funny, and very real — two friends talking about pregnancy brain, cravings, bo...

This episode is extra special to me. Originally recorded in 2023 for my former podcast We’re Over Here Now, it captures a side of the legendary Minneapolis artist Scott Seekins that most people never get to see. While many know Scott for his iconic presence in the city’s art scene, few realize just how much he loves nature, especially fishing and snake hunting (strictly for observation, never harm...

In this special episode of Excelsior!, I take a break from guest interviews as I prepare for an exciting new chapter—motherhood! While on maternity break, I'll be diving into topics I love, and this time, I’m joined by my studio mate, Nik Linde, for a laid-back chat about what it’s like to be a photographer in 2025. Nik and I share a space at Sturdy Studios, and as fellow photographers, we have pl...

Have you ever met someone whose energy is so magnetic that you can’t help but be drawn to them? That’s exactly how I felt when I met Kimberly Perrine. She’s one of those rare individuals who lights up the room with her dynamic personality and unwavering authenticity. Kimberly is a true force of nature—someone who dives into passion projects wholeheartedly, no matter how many hours are in a day. As...

In this episode, I sit down with Joseph Antognoli, AKA The Famous Italian Artist, whose captivating art installations have made waves in Minneapolis and beyond. Known for transforming spaces like the exterior of his home and even his bedroom into immersive artistic experiences, Joseph's artistry pushes boundaries and redefines creative expression. We also discuss his flair for designing stylish, o...

In this episode of Excelsior!, I sit down with Paulie Skaja, a dynamic entrepreneur, author, and speaker who is dedicated to empowering others and building lasting connections. I first met Paulie at a networking event, where her speech truly moved me. So much so that I bought her book, and it helped me refocus on my own business in ways I hadn’t expected. In this conversation, we dive into Paulie’...

Did you know that four out of four photographers experience haunting? Join me In this special Halloween episode, I gather with three fellow photographers-- Nik Linde, Takeia, and Jose to share our most chilling, real-life ghost stories. The studio might be safe, but each of us has a tale (or two) that’ll keep you on edge: brooms standing on their own, eerie 3 AM awakenings, mysterious voices echoi...

In this special episode, 'Andrew Lentz Loves Guinness!' I sit down with my incredibly talented friend Andrew Lentz, also known as *Splash*. I first saw him perform at Only Every Monday, and I've been hooked ever since. We dive into his passion for performance, his journey as an artist. We recorded this episode to promote his upcoming show, *Splash*! - 'Breaking the Dam' Album Release, featuring Pa...

In today’s episode, Britleigh sits down with Bandon Puterbaugh, owner and founder of Charged Fitness and Rehab, to explore his unique approach to fitness and injury rehabilitation. Bandon’s journey began while he was a US Marine deployed in Afghanistan, where he became a certified personal trainer. After returning home, he worked as an exercise physiologist, helping patients recover from severe co...

This episode is truly serendipitous! I asked the universe for guidance on how to view my business through a spiritual lens, and the very next day, I met Amy Theisen at a BNI meeting I attended. It felt like fate!  I was thrilled to have Amy, a metaphysics coach, on my podcast. She specializes in helping people become their best selves, and our conversation was nothing short of life-changing. After...

Happy three-year anniversary to the Excelsior! Podcast! To celebrate this milestone, I had the pleasure of being interviewed by John Armstrong, a business coach from Full Spectrum Coaching. We recorded the episode in my home studio, where I took the hot seat as John asked me about the journey of the podcast, my passion for photography, and much more. Tune in to hear behind-the-scenes insights and...

In this episode, I had the wonderful opportunity to welcome an inspiring guest into my studio—an 84-year-old wonder woman who has truly redefined what it means to age gracefully and boldly. Join me as I sit down with the co-founder of Aging But Dangerous, a movement that celebrates the vitality, resilience, and adventurous spirit of women over 50. We'll dive into her incredible journey, exploring...

In this episode, we dive into the captivating story of Queery the Clown, whose viral video on Instagram caught my attention and turned me into an instant fan. Her unique style and entrepreneurial ambition are truly inspiring. She has not only created a brand for herself with fun and engaging merchandise, but she has also shown that with determination and creativity, you can capitalize on your art....

In this episode, I sit down with Farrah Fischer, the founder of "Datable Rebels" and host of the "Datable Rebels" podcast. On a rainy day in my studio, surrounded by my dogs, we chat about her journey in creating a dating company and podcast that dives deep into modern dating life and fosters genuine connections through unique events. We vibe on our shared passion for bringing people together to m...

Last summer, while conducting interviews at  the state fair, I had the unique opportunity to interview a couple in their wedding attire. This serendipitous encounter led me to the awe-inspiring Kristen Smith! Kristen, a fitness coach and host of her own health podcast, embodies the true spirit of a "Girl Boss." Originally from Minnesota, she made the bold move to Miami in 2020. In this episode, Kr...

Embark on a journey through the world of entrepreneurship, resilience, and the reality behind it with Vince, the founder of a local tea company, Fresh Steeps. I was first Introduced to Vince's teas by influential members of the community, I was immediately drawn to his fun Tik Tok videos. Our shared passion for Brazilian Jiu Jitsu sparked a connection that led to a conversation about Vince's tea j...

Empowering Sobriety: A Conversation with Jen Gilhoi Join us for an insightful episode featuring Jen Gilhoi, a true beacon of inspiration. As the co-founder of both Zero Proof Collective and Sauna and Sobriety, Jen dedicates her efforts to fostering a culture of sobriety in the vibrant community of the Twin Cities. In this engaging conversation, Jen opens up about her personal journey towards sobri...

This inspiring episode is with the driven self-starter, Jenna Redfield! Jenna, a beacon of creativity and positivity, shares her illuminating journey through the realms of content creation, digital marketing, and beyond. In this episode, Jenna takes us on a journey through her own evolution. As an ADHD entrepreneur, Jenna's unique perspective adds depth and richness to her story, showcasing how sh...

In this week's episode of Excelsior!, I had the pleasure of chatting with the incredible Maggie Kirkwood, host of the fascinating podcast, "Minds on Mushrooms"!  Tune in to this enlightening episode as Maggie Kirkwood takes us on a journey through the captivating realm of mushrooms and shares her inspiring story of discovery and growth. Maggie shares her captivating journey of how her fascination...