Lesley Lopez: Service Before Self

Lesley Lopez: Service Before Self

What if the greatest gift of the Miss America Organization isn't the crown—but the woman you become? In this episode, we sit down with former Miss Jefferson County Lesley Lopez, whose life has been shaped by music, service, entrepreneurship, and family. From teaching music and building successful businesses to navigating the unimaginable loss of her son, Kennedy, Lesley shares how purpose and community have carried her through every season. Her story is an inspiring reminder that while life's path rarely unfolds as planned, the lessons we learn, and the character we build, stay with us forever.  You can find out more about Lesley at www.thelopezteamwv.com Follow us on @heresheispodcast

Rae Boyd: Finding Her Voice

Before millions watched her on American Idol, Rae Boyd was learning confidence, interview skills, and stage presence through the Miss America Organization in Maryland. In this episode, Rae shares the unexpected path that led her from local pageants to becoming a Top 11 finalist on one of television’s biggest stages. She opens up about overcoming self-doubt, navigating online criticism, the life-changing impact of her father’s stroke, and why she believes women should never apologize for being confident. Whether you’re a performer, a dreamer, or someone who’s wondering if you’re good enough to take the next step, Rae’s story is an inspiring reminder that sometimes the biggest breakthrough begins when you finally believe in yourself. platforms - @raesingz Follow us on IG at @heresheispodcast Don't forget to subscribe and give us a 5 star rating if you are loving what you hear!

Jennifer Pitts: The Power of the Miss

Jennifer Pitts, Miss Virginia 2002, joins us with her daughters Kady and Kenley McKenna as they prepare to compete for Miss Florida’s Teen. Together, they share what it’s like to experience the Miss America organization across generations, from Jennifer’s year of service and legal career to Kady’s environmental advocacy and Kenley’s work supporting children with dyslexia. This conversation is about family, service, sisterhood, and the unique bond of chasing big dreams together. Follow Jennifer on Facebook: Jennifer Pitts McKenna Follow Kenley and Kady on IG: KADY: kadymckennaa, itskadymckenna, etreasureinc, missorlandosteenfl missrivercitysteenfl, kenley.mckenna10 TikTok: enley.mckenna TikTok: itskadymckenna etreasure.us kadymckenna.com kenleymckenna.com Follow us on IG @heresheispodcast Don't forget to subscribe and give us a 5 star rating if you love our podcast!

Here She Is Podcast Takeover: Learned Too Late from Allyn Rose

This week is a PODCAST TAKEOVER! We are excited feature former Miss DC, Allyn Rose's podcast, Learned Too Late. In this episode, Pooja Himovich, founder of Makiaj Beauty Light, talks about her journey into the world of beauty and makeup and how it led to her creating her own product and brand. We will be back again in two weeks - see you then! Make sure to subscribe to Learned Too Late and give them a follow at @learnedtoolatepod on IG. Follow us also at @heresheispodcast on IG.

Arian Orlando and Sadie Schiermeyer: One Dream, Two Generations

What happens when a lifelong dream becomes part of your family legacy? In this special mother-daughter episode of Here She Is, Karissa and Jaime sit down with former Miss Texas Arian Orlando and her daughter, current Miss Texas Sadie Schiermeyer, the first daughter of a former Miss Texas to also wear the crown. From Arian’s whirlwind year as Miss Texas 1994 to Sadie’s journey to first runner-up at Miss America, this conversation explores the evolution of the Miss America organization across generations, the pressures young women face today, mental health, motherhood, identity, and what it means to pursue excellence without losing yourself along the way. Sadie also opens up about her recovery from an eating disorder, why she chose to speak publicly about it during her year as Miss Texas, and the messages from young women that reminded her why honesty matters. This episode is heartfelt, funny, vulnerable, and full of perspective from two women connected by much more than a crown. You can follow Sadie at @missamericatx on IG. Follow us at @heresheispodcast on ID and don't forget to subscribe!