The Kindling Project

In this episode of the Kindling Project podcast, Alison Rico-Serbentas shares her transformative journey from being a stay-at-home mom to becoming an entrepreneur and bodybuilder. She discusses the challenges of navigating relationships, building confidence, and the importance of self-discovery. Alison emphasizes the significance of spiritual growth, seeking signs, and the evolution of her busines...

In this episode of the Kindling Project podcast, Melissa Halpin speaks with Jodi Lynn Turpin about the transformative power of joy. Jodi shares her journey of choosing joy as a daily practice, the impact of life events on her perspective, and her work with the Akashic Records. They discuss the importance of community, self-reflection, and the role of generational healing in personal growth. Jodi e...

In this episode of the Kindling Project podcast, host Melissa Halpin speaks with Sommer Gay, founder of Launch Marketing Co. They discuss Sommer's journey into entrepreneurship, the importance of niche marketing in hospitality, and the challenges of work-life balance for women entrepreneurs. Sommer shares insights on amplifying women's voices in branding, overcoming imposter syndrome, an...

Let's gather around the campfire!  In this first iteration of the Kindling Project's "Campfire Series", a group of women entrepreneurs engage in a candid conversation about their experiences in business, the challenges of reinvention in midlife, and the importance of community support. They discuss navigating growth versus stability in their businesses, the significance of find...

In this episode of the Kindling Project podcast, Melissa Halpin speaks with Ang Adamiak, the executive director of Arts and Scraps, an organization dedicated to transforming everyday scraps into educational tools and creative opportunities for children. They discuss the dual mission of Arts and Scraps, which includes a community store for creative materials and educational programs that teach STEM...

In this episode of the Kindling Project podcast, host Melissa Halpin speaks with Asandi Conner, a writer, coach, and strategist, about the importance of finding one's voice and leading with authenticity. Asandi shares her journey from being silenced to becoming a voice bearer for women, emphasizing the need for courage in leadership. They discuss the Detroit Equity Action Lab, which focuses o...

In this episode of the Kindling Project Podcast, Melissa Halpin engages in a profound conversation with Karen Schultz-Tarnopol about the significance of legacy and estate planning, particularly for women in midlife. They explore the emotional aspects of legacy, the importance of preparing for the future, and how to navigate the complexities of estate planning. Karen shares her insights on empoweri...

In this episode of the Kindling Project podcast, Melissa Halpin speaks with Andrea Clegg, founder of Bloomified Life, about the transformative journey of midlife women. They discuss the concept of 'bloomification', the importance of community, and the need to challenge cultural narratives surrounding aging. Andrea shares insights on navigating midlife transitions, busting myths about agi...

In this episode of the Kindling Project podcast, host Melissa Halpin speaks with Deana Neely, founder and CEO of Detroit Voltage, a woman-led electrical contracting company. They discuss Deana's journey into the electrical field, the challenges she faced as a woman in a male-dominated industry, and her commitment to promoting energy equity and clean technology. Deana shares her experiences of...

In this episode of the Kindling Project Podcast, Melissa Halpin sits down with Lisa McIntyre, a therapist, school board member, and advocate for youth mental health. They discuss Lisa's journey from her upbringing in Indiana to her current role in Northville, Michigan, where she actively supports mental health initiatives in schools and the community. The conversation explores the impact of t...

In this episode of the Kindling Project podcast, Melissa Halpin welcomes Rachelle Beazley, a wellness experience creator and founder of Aloe and Alchemy. They discuss Rachelle's journey into the wellness space, the importance of creating memorable experiences, and the connection between breath, detoxification, and emotional health. Rachelle shares insights about her Cleanse Club, the signific...

In this conversation, Melissa Halpin and Antonia discuss the transformative power of mindfulness, personal growth, and the importance of community support. Antonia shares her experiences from a 10-day silent retreat, emphasizing the connection between emotions and physical health, and the significance of being present. They explore the role of a life curator, the impact of grief, and the cultural...

In this episode of The Kindling Project podcast, host Melissa Halpin speaks with Diamond Branner, the founder and creative director of Bland Material. They discuss Diamond's journey from being a teacher to a fashion designer, the inspiration behind her brand, and the importance of confidence and comfort in fashion. Diamond shares her proudest moments, including collaborations with community o...

In this episode of the Kindling Project podcast, Melissa Halpin and Elana Merzin Weinstein discuss the importance of reclaiming creativity and spirituality, especially during challenging times. They explore personal transitions, the healing power of art, and the significance of building authentic communities. Elana shares her journey of reconnecting with her artistic self through ancient practices...

In this episode of the Kindling Project podcast, host Melissa Halpin speaks with Jessica York, founder of Coterie Detroit and owner of Breathe Bodywork and Beautification. They discuss the importance of community building, wellness, and self-care, particularly for women. Jessica shares her journey in the wellness industry, the holistic treatments offered at her spa, and the significance of reconne...

In this episode of The Kindling Project podcast, Melissa Halpin interviews Dele Nguyen, a creative entrepreneur specializing in content creation and digital marketing. They discuss Dele's journey from being a college dropout to establishing her own agency, Nguyen Creative. The conversation delves into the challenges of client management, the importance of pricing and value, and the dynamics o...

In this conversation, Melissa Halpin and April Clarke explore the significance of community in personal and professional life. They discuss the importance of supportive networks, the challenges of motherhood, and the need for intentionality in building communities that foster belonging. The dialogue also touches on the impact of technology on community interactions and the value of authenticity in...

In this engaging conversation, Melissa Halpin reconnects with Sanya Weston, founder of Young People Travel Global Edge, to discuss their journeys as entrepreneurs, the importance of mentorship, and the transformative power of travel. They explore the challenges and joys of entrepreneurship, the significance of community support, and the lessons learned from their experiences. Sanya shares insights...

In this engaging conversation, Amanda Sweet, the creative fairy godmother, shares her community-building journey through her platform ReVamp, a clothing swap and creative experience. Amanda Sweet, affectionately known as the Creative Fairy Godmother, is an immersive and experiential global speaker, community leader, event curator, and fashion junkie.  Amanda Sweet’s goal is to help people make fri...

This conversation explores the emotional complexities of navigating friendships and breakups as adults. The participants share personal experiences and insights on how relationships evolve over time, the impact of social media, and the challenges of maintaining boundaries. They discuss the emotional weight of friendships, the difficulty of having tough conversations, and the process of healing aft...

This conversation explores the emotional complexities of navigating friendships and breakups as adults. The participants share personal experiences and insights on how relationships evolve over time, the impact of social media, and the challenges of maintaining boundaries. They discuss the emotional weight of friendships, the difficulty of having tough conversations, and the process of healing aft...

In this episode, Amy and Melissa kick off Season 4 of the Kindling Project podcast. They discuss what they've been up to, including the growth of the Kindling Project community, their events, and Amy's pursuit of her PhD. They also talk about the importance of perseverance, setting boundaries, and embracing the extra in life and share plans for the upcoming season, which include conversa...

In this conversation, Amy and Melissa discuss the importance of creating a space for women to connect and support each other. They talk about the roots of their project, TKP, and the role of mentorship and giving back. They reflect on their own experiences and the value of surrounding themselves with other women who understand and validate their journeys. They also discuss the challenges of being...

In this episode, Mic chats with the fabulous Diann Wingert.  Diann shares her personal journey of taking off the mask and being true to herself. She discusses her childhood trauma and the masks she wore to survive. Diann emphasizes encouraging women to trust themselves and embrace their desires and priorities. She also explores the balance between strength and femininity and challenges societal ex...

Mel chats with Stacy Sloan, founder of Three Little Birds Granola. Stacy shares her journey from being a Chef to becoming the Founder and CEO of a clean food granola company. That means: No Soy, No Dairy, Gluten-free, Nut-free and School-safe.  She discusses her passion for health and nutrition and her commitment to providing healthy food to needy children. Stacy emphasizes the importance of align...