Episode 46, From Mom Life to Mythic Worlds, The Legendary Guardians of J.F. Monroe

Episode 52, From Pages to Purpose with Mila Maxwell

In this heartfelt episode of Jess Saying, I sit downwith mother, and volunteer firefighter Mila Maxwell, author of Finding Lady Baltimore. Mila shares the deeply personal story of growing up alongside her sister with disabilities—and how that experience shaped not only her book, but her approach to motherhood, business, and life. Together, they unpack the emotional weight of memoir writing, the resilience it takes to self-publish, and what it means to wear multiple hats in a world that never slows down. Whether you’re a writer, a caregiver, or a woman juggling more roles than there are hours in the day, this episode reminds you of the power of your story.

Episode 51, How to Stay Grounded with Strong-Willed Kids with Melissa Schulz

In this conversation, Jessica Danel and Melissa Schulz discuss the challenges and rewards of parenting, particularly for neurodiverse and strong-willed children. Melissa shares her journey from working with at-risk youth to founding a behavioral health company and transitioning into parenting coaching. They explore various strategies for emotional regulation, the importance of positive reinforcement, and the impact of generational differences in parenting styles. The discussion emphasizes the importance of self-care for parents and offers practical tools for managing challenging child behaviors.

Episode 50, Breaking the Beliefs That Fuel Anxiety with Sabrina Trobak

In this powerful episode of Jess Saying, I sit down with Canadian clinical counsellor and author Sabrina Trobak to explore how early messages around worth, importance, and value shape the way we think, feel, and show up in our lives. Sabrina shares tools from her book Not Good Enough and breaks down why anxiety, anger, and emotional overwhelm are often rooted in one destructive lie: that we’re not enough. With humor, warmth, and lived insight from decades in education and counselling, Sabrina helps us unearth and challenge the hidden beliefs that sabotage our parenting, relationships, and mental health—and she gives us the tools to build something stronger in their place.

Episode 49, A Marine’s Mission to Equip the Next Generation with Olaolu Ogunyemi

What does it take to lead at home, at work, and within yourself—especially in a world that celebrates the spotlight over service? In this episode of Jess Saying, I sit down with Marine Officer, father, and award-winning author Olaolu Ogunyemi to explore the life-shaping power of intentional leadership and resilient parenting. From his humble beginnings to the discipline of the military, Olaolu shares how his faith, failures, and fatherhood molded him into a man on a mission to amplify the right voices in children’s lives. Through personal stories, practical tools, and spiritual wisdom, he reminds us that building a legacy doesn’t start with status—it starts with showing up. Whether you're a parent trying to raise confident kids, a leader battling insecurity, or simply someone searching for purpose, this conversation will leave you fired up and full of faith.

Episode 48, One Woman’s Mission to Educate, Equip, and Empower with Gail Showalter

In this conversation, Jessica Danel and Gail Showalter discuss the challenges faced by single mothers, particularly in pursuing education and career opportunities. Gail shares her personal journey and the founding of her organization, Single Moms Empowered, which aims to support single mothers in overcoming barriers to education and employment. They explore the importance of community support, self-belief, and the need for practical resources to helpsingle moms thrive. The conversation emphasizes the significance of small, actionable steps towards personal growth and the power of perseverance in the face of adversity.