The Power of Connection

The Power of Connection

Have you ever felt that invisible thread that links you to others? That moment of genuine connection that makes you feel seen, heard, and understood? Today, we’re going to talk about that thread—why it’s the strongest material a leader can use, and why nurturing it is the most beautiful thing you can do for your life. We’ll look at connection in leadership, share a story of a woman who built a movement with it, and explore the most important connection of all: to ourselves. The post The Power of Connection [https://builditbeautiful.com/the-power-of-connection/] appeared first on https://builditbeautiful.com.

Confidence in Conditions

FROM ROCKS TO RESILIENCE: BUILDING A BEAUTIFUL LIFE AFTER DIAGNOSIS Ever had a moment that felt like it stopped the world? Maybe it was a phone call from the doctor, a tough conversation, or a new diagnosis that just took your breath away. That’s the feeling of getting a “rock” handed to you. It’s heavy, it’s unexpected, and it can feel like your entire world just shattered. But here’s a secret I’ve learned from my own journey: a rock isn’t the end of the story. It’s the very first building block. My “Build it Beautiful” philosophy is all about taking those life-changing moments and using them to construct something even stronger, more vibrant, and more meaningful than you ever imagined. STEP 1: ACKNOWLEDGE THE ROCK First things first, you have to admit the rock is there. You can’t build with something you pretend doesn’t exist. It’s okay to feel the fear, the anger, or the sadness. That’s a normal part of the process. This diagnosis is a part of your story now, but it doesn’t have to define you. It’s just the foundation you’ve been given to build your next beautiful masterpiece. STEP 2: FIND YOUR TOOLS Once you’ve acknowledged your rock, it’s time to find your “tools.” These are the things that will empower you to build. Think of them as your personal toolkit, designed to help you thrive with your new reality. * Medical Tools: Your doctors and treatment plans are your most important tools. Work with them as a team to create the best plan for you. * Physical Tools: This could be a new focus on nutrition that makes your body feel amazing, or finding a type of movement—like dancing or gentle yoga—that makes you feel strong, not defeated. * Mental & Emotional Tools: These are the invisible powerhouses! Maybe it’s finding a therapist, a support group, or simply the daily practice of journaling to sort through your thoughts. Learning to process your feelings is a huge part of the building process. STEP 3: BUILD IT BEAUTIFUL! This is where the magic happens. Building with your rock isn’t always easy, and it won’t be a straight line. There will be setbacks, but every effort is a step forward. A diagnosis can actually be an opportunity to find a new purpose. Maybe it’s connecting with others who are going through the same thing, starting a blog, or using your story to help someone else feel less alone. True confidence isn’t about having a perfect life; it’s about knowing you have the tools to handle whatever comes your way. It’s about finding strength in your vulnerability and realizing that your story, even with its rocks, is a beautiful one. Ready to start building? What’s one small tool you’re going to grab today to get started? The post Confidence in Conditions [https://builditbeautiful.com/confidence-in-conditions/] appeared first on https://builditbeautiful.com.

Build with Neuro Dope – Neil Hughes

I gotta be honest, I did not see this conversation and connection coming. When my dear friend and past podcast co-host, Sabe Anderson, dropped and email in my inbox introducing me to Neil, I was happy to make the acquaintance as always. But did not see the incredible human the Neil was until this conversation. Neil is the host of the Neuro Dope podcast and has the incredible ability to recall so many facts, histories, and experiences that he is now using as an executive coach. I noticed the couple of times he even took the opportunity to coach me in this session. It was humbling and I was awe struck with his ability to be gentle and not controlling. Neil’s Podcast, Neuro Dope, is about peer support. it is a real-time model of growing together in moments of co-regulatory safety. [https://i0.wp.com/builditbeautiful.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Screenshot-2025-06-11-114728.png?resize=708%2C708&ssl=1]https://neurodope.io/ From his own words, > “It is true. I’m autistic. Very neurodivergent. Podcasting was not something I ever thought I would want to do, but I trusted Sabe. And I wanted to become more than a disabled ghost. I have been coaching people for over 20 years. Sabe was the first person to see me and attempt the impossible–make a record of the light we bear. I am a post materialist savant. I get downloads throughout every episode.  > 85% of autistics with college degrees like me are disabled precisely because we are not seen or valued, but many of us work all the time caring for our sick and dying family members. What I have to say and what you will hear in this podcast is better explained by The Telepathy Tapes [https://thetelepathytapes.com/]. Our work runs parallel and I hope you have digested all what Ky Dickens [https://www.kydickens.com/]has made clear with her excellent work. We all have value. We are all competent, because we carry the light. -Neil IF YOU’D LIKE TO LISTEN TO NEURO DOPE OR CONNECT WITH NEIL, YOU CAN CLICK HERE. [https://neurodope.io/] The post Build with Neuro Dope – Neil Hughes [https://builditbeautiful.com/build-with-neuro-dope-neil-hughes/] appeared first on https://builditbeautiful.com.

Build with Kim Chatto – Miss Phillippines

Surrounding myself with people who are driven to achieve and have the kindest hearts are my kind of people. Kim Chatto is just that kind of person. Kim is not only a devoted mother and an esteemed Air Force veteran, but she also currently holds the title of Miss Philippines for the Continental Worldwide Pageant. Her journey is one of incredible dedication, from serving our nation as an active duty military officer, first as a nuclear combat crew commander – a role that speaks volumes about her sharp intellect and unwavering responsibility – and then as a Public Affairs Officer for special operations, where she honed her skills in communication and connection under pressure. Now calling the beautiful state of Utah home alongside her two children and a delightful menagerie of pets, Kim continues to contribute to national security as a defense contractor for the vital Sentinel nuclear weapon project. But her commitment extends far beyond her professional life. Kim is a true builder of communities, channeling her energy and heart into her podcast and philanthropic organization, Highly Favored, a testament to her belief in lifting others and fostering positive change. [https://i0.wp.com/builditbeautiful.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/kim-chatto.jpg?w=832&ssl=1] When she finds a moment to herself amidst her busy and impactful life, Kim is an avid hockey fan, cheering on our very own Utah Mammoth. She also finds joy in exploring the breathtaking landscapes of our National and state parks, and unwinding with the captivating stories found within the pages of a good book or the narration of a compelling audiobook. I hope that you enjoy this conversation with Kim as much as I did. WHERE TO FIND KIM: @KIM_CHATTO [https://www.instagram.com/kim_chatto/] & @HIGHLYFAVORED_OFFICIAL [https://www.instagram.com/highlyfavored_official/]  AND IF YOU WANT TO COME SEE THE PAGEANT ON JULY 12, 2025, CHECK OUT THE SITE HERE! [https://www.continentalworldwidepageant.com/] The post Build with Kim Chatto – Miss Phillippines [https://builditbeautiful.com/build-with-kim-chatto-miss-phillippines/] appeared first on https://builditbeautiful.com.

Build with Good Gluten Free Grub – Lorin Smith

[https://i0.wp.com/builditbeautiful.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/unnamed-3.jpg?w=832&ssl=1] Connecting with Lorin at Good Gluten Free Grub was match made in heaven. Lorin is a natural born leader and LOVES to connect people with Celiac Disease. She is an incredible example of taking a “life rock” and building with it. When I came across her on her Instagram Account, I knew she needed to be on the podcast. Lorin’s Story: In 2016 she was diagnosed with Celiac Disease. She felt alone and went through lots of trial and error. She now helps other celiacs, new and old, learn how to eat safely, enjoy gluten free food and thrive with this new autoimmune disease. She loves partnering with fun, innovative brands that serve the gluten free community! She says, “I’m here to help!” She is a master at organizing and hosting community events since 2021 and loves sharing food and a safe environment for all her gluten free friends!  [https://i0.wp.com/builditbeautiful.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/unnamed-2.jpg?w=832&ssl=1]https://i0.wp.com/builditbeautiful.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/unnamed-2.jpg?ssl=1 In 2022 she started The Good Gluten Free Grub Podcast with the goal of giving people hope that there is still a beautiful on the other side of a challenging diagnosis. Check it out below! You can find Lorin and her amazing business Good Gluten Free Grub on Instagram @goodglutenfreegrub [https://www.instagram.com/goodglutenfreegrub/] And FINALLY, we would love to see you at the Gluten Free Food Truck Rally! Come take a picture with me and enjoy Lorin’s gathering of ALL things gluten free. For anyone with Celiac (like me), this is what dreams are made of! [https://i0.wp.com/builditbeautiful.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/IMG_20250426_184103_210.jpg?fit=819%2C1024&ssl=1] SOME GREAT THINGS WE TALKED ABOUT LINKING: [https://i0.wp.com/builditbeautiful.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/unnamed-1.jpg?w=832&ssl=1] Equal Eats [https://equaleats.com/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22028971336&gbraid=0AAAAACUgfXmkZ2N5Hp0I0hhtJd6SC6ex4&gclid=Cj0KCQjww-HABhCGARIsALLO6XyQRxfzYAnXjhv8MLRI-T9xVlXtcNcyWvY2Jh-UVMxXMwEhHUq5N0gaAhYyEALw_wcB] – Travel Cards for Allergies The Atly App [https://www.atly.com/]– Google Maps for Allergies Find Me Gluten Free [https://www.findmeglutenfree.com/] – Free Travel Map for Allergies List of Gluten Names and Terms [https://builditbeautiful.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/List-of-Gluten-Names-and-Terms.pdf]Download [https://builditbeautiful.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/List-of-Gluten-Names-and-Terms.pdf] DON’T FORGET! HAVE A GROUP WHO COULD USE THE BUILD IT BEAUTIFUL MESSAGE? I am currently taking opportunities to teach Build it Beautiful to groups and communities – both in person and virtually. If you are interested in having me come share this incredibly impactful message, shoot an email to: clarissa@builditbeautiful.com I’d love to come share and change lives. [https://i0.wp.com/builditbeautiful.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Long-BIB-Logo.png?resize=832%2C208&ssl=1] [https://i0.wp.com/builditbeautiful.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/3.png?resize=832%2C832&ssl=1] DexaDash – body composition scans are $10 off when you use code: BUILDITBEAUTIFUL10 Book a Dexa Scan Here [https://www.dexadash.com/] And if you haven’t listened to our podcast, check it out below Podcast with Jamie of DexaDash [https://builditbeautiful.com/build-with-dexadash/] [https://i0.wp.com/builditbeautiful.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/2025-Pageant-Ads-Quarter-Vibrant.png?resize=791%2C1024&ssl=1]https://i0.wp.com/builditbeautiful.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/2025-Pageant-Ads-Quarter-Vibrant.png?ssl=1 [https://i0.wp.com/builditbeautiful.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/3.png?resize=819%2C1024&ssl=1]https://i0.wp.com/builditbeautiful.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/3.png?ssl=1 AND CHECK OUT OUR LATEST PRODUCTS IN THE BUILD IT BEAUTIFUL SHOP: LATEST PRODUCTS View All → The post Build with Good Gluten Free Grub – Lorin Smith [https://builditbeautiful.com/build-with-good-gluten-free-grub-lorin-smith/] appeared first on https://builditbeautiful.com.