Building a Dream Through Dance and Community: Caitlin Brozna-Smith on Culture, Courage, and Connection

The Courage to Be Becoming: M. Rowan Nowak on Poetry, Healing, and Finding Your Voice

In this heartfelt and deeply reflective episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp sits down with poet and author M. Rowan Nowak, whose books We Choose Repair and The Ritual of Living explore healing, identity, grief, growth, and the quiet courage of becoming yourself. Meredith shares how poetry first entered her life after 9/11, when she wrote her first poem in fourth grade as a way to process fear and confusion she could not yet explain. Over the years, writing became a private refuge—a place to explore emotions, experiences, and truths she struggled to say out loud. Through vulnerable honesty, Meredith discusses overcoming fear of being seen, publishing her work for the first time, and learning that creativity does not need to come from perfection or performance. This episode is a powerful reminder that healing is not linear, that becoming is sacred, and that our voices matter exactly as they are. Key Discussion Points (with time stamps): * (00:01) Introduction to M. Rowan Nowak and her poetry collections * (01:29) Writing her first poem after 9/11 as a fourth grader * (02:38) Using poetry as a private way to process emotions * (03:30) Returning to poetry in eighth grade with "Bringing America Home" * (04:28) The themes behind We Choose Repair and The Ritual of Living * (06:06) How writing helped Meredith redefine self-worth and identity * (07:11) Publishing during a season of personal uncertainty and job loss * (08:04) Sharing poetry publicly for the first time on Facebook * (09:24) Readers responding emotionally and sharing their own stories * (09:49) Influences like Maya Angelou and learning through lived experience * (10:55) Realizing her poetry was creating genuine human connection * (11:53) Overcoming fear, anxiety, and imposter syndrome through publishing * (13:47) Self-talk centered around honesty and continuing to show up * (14:53) Holding her first printed book and stepping out of hiding * (15:48) Support from her husband, family, and growing community * (17:03) Reading from her poem "Imposter Syndrome" * (19:10) Advice for women learning who they are becoming * (21:02) Encouragement for aspiring writers to trust their own voice * (22:15) Favorite quote about beginnings quietly forming * (26:04) Previewing upcoming books and future writing projects Notable Quotes: * "Writing gave me a place to be very honest." * "I'm scared, but I'm tired of hiding." * "I don't have to be fearless or perfect to be faithful to what matters." * "Sometimes that's all courage really is—just showing up for yourself day after day." * "It's okay to still be becoming." * "Becoming is not a lesser chapter, it's a sacred one." Takeaways: * Creativity can become a powerful tool for healing and self-understanding. * Vulnerability often creates the deepest human connection. * Your worth is not determined by productivity or performance. * Fear of being seen can be overcome one honest step at a time. * Becoming yourself is an ongoing journey, not a final destination. * Writers should trust their authentic voice instead of comparing themselves to others. * Healing and growth can coexist with uncertainty and imperfection. Connect with Guest: • Website: https://www.mrowannowak.com/ [https://www.mrowannowak.com/] • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/m.rowannowak/ [https://www.instagram.com/m.rowannowak/] @m.rowannowak • Books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/M-Rowan-Nowak/author/B0GQ6396WJ?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_2&qid=1779800610&sr=8-2&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=c936d04b-604a-4a4f-8593-8de87295d114 [https://www.amazon.com/stores/M-Rowan-Nowak/author/B0GQ6396WJ?ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_2&qid=1779800610&sr=8-2&shoppingPortalEnabled=true&ccs_id=c936d04b-604a-4a4f-8593-8de87295d114] Connect with Us: • Follow April Kemp on Instagram: [@fanaticaldreamher] • Stay updated on new episodes of Fanatical DreamHer: https://www.fanaticaldreamher.com/ [https://www.fanaticaldreamher.com/] • April's email: april@fanaticaldreamher.com Join the DreamHer Community: Subscribe, share, and leave us a review if this episode inspired you. Don't forget to tag us with your favorite takeaways using #FanaticalDreamHer on social media!

Turning Passion Into Purpose: Kristina Hughes on Hustle, Innovation, and Building Frame Your Feline

In this inspiring episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp sits down with Kristina Hughes, founder of Frame Your Feline, to talk about entrepreneurship, creativity, resilience, and the power of reinvention. Kristina shares her incredible journey from actress, comedian, and pageant competitor to becoming a successful serial entrepreneur. Alongside her husband Brian, she created Frame Your Feline—a modern cat shelf system designed to combine feline enrichment with beautiful home décor. What started as a creative solution for their own cats evolved into an innovative company featured on Shark Tank and embraced by cat lovers around the world. Throughout the conversation, Kristina opens up about the realities of entrepreneurship, overcoming manufacturing challenges, learning to hustle through rejection, and the importance of taking bold action even when the outcome is uncertain. Her story is a reminder that dreams are built step by step through persistence, creativity, and courage. Key Discussion Points (with time stamps): * (00:01) Introduction to Kristina Hughes and Frame Your Feline * (01:27) Continuing forward after Shark Tank without a deal * (02:27) Kristina's background as a performer, entrepreneur, and business owner * (03:15) Learning hustle and entrepreneurship through acting and promotional work * (04:08) Creating Holden Log and Performer Track for entertainers * (06:34) The inspiration behind Frame Your Feline * (07:31) Early childhood lessons about hard work and competition * (08:47) Winning a school reading competition and discovering personal drive * (10:06) Moving to Los Angeles with $800 and chasing her dream * (13:56) Developing the first Frame Your Feline prototype during COVID * (17:58) The moment they realized the product was truly special * (19:52) Major manufacturing challenges and overcoming setbacks * (23:16) Self-talk, mantras, and the importance of personal growth * (25:03) Receiving the call from Shark Tank after submitting online * (27:58) Celebrating success even without securing a Shark Tank deal * (29:20) Rescue work helping cats and dogs find homes * (34:33) Kristina's advice for entrepreneurs: "Be bold." * (35:33) The importance of taking targeted action daily Notable Quotes: * "We turn your cat into a living meowster piece." * "Deal or no deal, we're always moving forward." * "You have to run your business like a business." * "Every day and every way I am better and better." * "Be bold." * "If you stay at home and you don't do anything, you're not going to go anywhere." Takeaways: * Entrepreneurship often begins long before a business officially launches. * Rejection and setbacks are part of the process, not the end of the journey. * Innovation often comes from solving personal problems creatively. * Taking bold action creates opportunities that waiting never will. * Building a successful company requires adaptability and persistence. * Community, mentorship, and learning from others are essential for growth. * Success should be celebrated, even when outcomes don't look exactly as planned. Connect with Guest: • Website: https://www.frameyourfeline.com/ [https://www.frameyourfeline.com/] • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/frameyourfeline/ [https://www.instagram.com/frameyourfeline/] @frameyourfeline • Email: kristina@frameyourfeline.com Connect with Us: • Follow April Kemp on Instagram: [@fanaticaldreamher] • Stay updated on new episodes of Fanatical DreamHer: https://www.fanaticaldreamher.com/ [https://www.fanaticaldreamher.com/] • April's email: april@fanaticaldreamher.com Join the DreamHer Community: Subscribe, share, and leave us a review if this episode inspired you. Don't forget to tag us with your favorite takeaways using #FanaticalDreamHer on social media!

Building a Dream Through Dance and Community: Caitlin Brozna-Smith on Culture, Courage, and Connection

In this inspiring episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp sits down with Caitlin Brozna-Smith, founder of Bella Diva World Dance in Denver, Colorado—a thriving dance studio built on culture, connection, and community. Caitlin shares her journey from a young girl choreographing dances in her imagination to traveling the world and discovering a deep passion for international dance. What began as a small dream in a rented studio space in 2010 has grown into a vibrant, 6,000+ square foot dance community that celebrates cultures from around the globe with authenticity and integrity. Through moments of uncertainty, financial pressure, and personal growth, Caitlin stayed committed to her vision—creating not just a business, but a space where women can connect, heal, and express themselves. This episode is a powerful reminder that building a dream takes patience, courage, and the willingness to grow alongside it. Key Discussion Points (with time stamps): * (00:01) Introduction to Caitlin Brozna-Smith and Bella Diva World Dance * (01:15) Starting Bella Diva in 2010 with rented studio space * (02:36) Building a team to represent global dance styles authentically * (03:52) Early love of dance and choreographing as a child * (04:36) Life-changing study abroad experience traveling the world * (06:50) Beginning her world dance journey after returning home * (07:25) Creating a "dance family" rooted in community * (08:23) Challenges of balancing artistry with running a business * (09:00) Personal growth through empathy, compassion, and cultural awareness * (09:59) Major milestone: opening her first dedicated studio space * (10:56) Performing in Brazil's Carnaval and embracing humility * (12:42) Empowering others and building future leaders within her studio * (15:54) Expanding into a larger studio space and realizing a major dream * (17:09) Self-talk: allowing rest and trusting the process * (19:47) The importance of family support and community values * (21:10) Advice for young women to pursue their passions despite fear * (22:43) Starting small and growing a dream over time * (24:30) The importance of allowing space for both struggle and positivity * (30:09) Acknowledging that success is built through community, not alone Notable Quotes: * "Steps without the meaning and the history are just that." * "I never thought of it as being a transactional business." * "It wasn't easy, so I needed the passion." * "It's okay to rest." * "You can't just do everything you want all at once." * "No one is an island, and we do this together." Takeaways: * Passion is essential when building something through challenges. * Cultural understanding and authenticity create deeper connection and meaning. * Dreams often start small and grow over time with patience and persistence. * Community is a powerful force in building and sustaining success. * Rest and self-care are necessary for long-term sustainability. * Success is rarely achieved alone—it requires support and collaboration. * Taking risks, even when uncertain, is key to creating meaningful impact. Connect with Guest: • Website: https://belladivadance.com/ [https://belladivadance.com/] • Instagram: @BellaDivaWorldDance Connect with Us: • Follow April Kemp on Instagram: [@fanaticaldreamher] • Stay updated on new episodes of Fanatical DreamHer: https://www.fanaticaldreamher.com/ [https://www.fanaticaldreamher.com/] • April's email: april@fanaticaldreamher.com Join the DreamHer Community: Subscribe, share, and leave us a review if this episode inspired you. Don't forget to tag us with your favorite takeaways using #FanaticalDreamHer on social media!

Following Your Heart at Every Stage: Dr. Camilla Buchanan on Medicine, Courage, and Living Life Fully

In this inspiring episode of Fanatical DreamHer, host April Kemp sits down with Dr. Camilla Buchanan, a trailblazing OB-GYN, championship cyclist, and lifelong learner whose journey is anything but traditional. From starting her career as a school teacher to becoming one of the first women with children admitted to medical school, Dr. Buchanan shares how her path into medicine was not planned—but discovered through life experiences, curiosity, and bold action. Along the way, she built a successful medical practice, formed deep connections with her patients, and embraced opportunities that allowed her to grow both professionally and personally. Her story doesn't stop there. From competitive cycling later in life to making life-altering personal decisions rooted in authenticity, Dr. Buchanan demonstrates what it truly means to follow your heart—even when it challenges expectations. This episode is a powerful reminder that dreams evolve, courage matters, and the most meaningful life is one lived on your own terms. Key Discussion Points (with time stamps): * (00:02) Introduction to Dr. Camilla Buchanan and her achievements in medicine and cycling * (01:28) Being the first woman with children admitted to the Medical College of Virginia * (02:10) Early career path as a chemistry major and school teacher * (03:05) Life-changing experience teaching before integration * (04:02) Decision to pursue medical school while living in Okinawa * (05:43) Taking initiative and writing medical schools to secure interviews * (06:23) The demanding journey of medical school and balancing family life * (07:16) The realities and sacrifices of medical training * (08:37) Discovering the deep meaning of being a physician * (09:46) Finding purpose in gynecologic oncology and patient care * (11:11) Proving herself academically and succeeding at the top of her class * (12:25) Gaining confidence in the operating room and discovering surgical talent * (13:30) Navigating challenges as a woman in a male-dominated field * (16:25) Choosing to retire at the right moment * (17:06) Starting competitive cycling later in life and achieving national and world success * (20:44) A pivotal life decision to follow her heart and embrace authenticity * (24:50) Advice for young women on recognizing and developing their talents * (28:21) The impact of Girl Scouts and outdoor experiences on self-confidence Notable Quotes: * "I'll just go to medical school." * "There's always a price to pay." * "You just had to hold your own." * "You can either retire too late or too early." * "I have to follow my heart." * "If you're happy yourself, then you can make other people happy." Takeaways: * Dreams don't always start early—they often evolve through life experiences. * Taking initiative and advocating for yourself can open unexpected doors. * Success often comes with sacrifice, especially when balancing career and family. * Confidence is built through competence and persistence over time. * Following your heart may require difficult choices, but it leads to authenticity. * Physical activity and personal challenges can build lifelong confidence. * Understanding and using your unique talents is key to building a meaningful life. Connect with Guest: • Instagram: No Link • Additional Links: No Link Connect with Us: • Follow April Kemp on Instagram: [@fanaticaldreamher] • Stay updated on new episodes of Fanatical DreamHer: https://www.fanaticaldreamher.com/ [https://www.fanaticaldreamher.com/] • April's email: april@fanaticaldreamher.com Join the DreamHer Community: Subscribe, share, and leave us a review if this episode inspired you. Don't forget to tag us with your favorite takeaways using #FanaticalDreamHer on social media!

Building a Timeless Dream: How Passion, Discipline, and Sisterhood Created Her Timeless Life

In this inspiring episode of Fanatical DreamHer, April Kemp sits down with sisters Jessica and Presley Warman—members of the Warman Trio and creators of Her Timeless Life. Together, they share how their love for vintage fashion, music, and personal growth evolved into a rapidly growing brand that is inspiring women across the world. From performing high-energy 1950s and 60s music across the country with their family band to launching a viral social media presence in just weeks, Jessica and Presley open up about the intentional decisions, faith, and relentless work ethic behind their success. They discuss how they shifted direction when something didn't align with their long-term vision—and how leaning into what they truly loved changed everything. This episode is a powerful reminder that when you combine clarity, consistency, and belief in your dream, incredible growth can happen quickly. Whether you're building a business or simply trying to step into a more confident version of yourself, this conversation will leave you inspired to take action. Key Discussion Points (with time stamps): • (00:02) Introduction to Jessica and Presley Warman and their work with the Warman Trio • (01:51) The origin and structure of their family band performing 1950s and 60s music • (04:26) Launch of Her Timeless Life and their mission to inspire vintage style • (05:53) Their shared dream of building something together as sisters • (06:27) Pivoting from a previous content direction to focus on vintage fashion • (07:29) Rapid growth—going viral and gaining hundreds of thousands of followers • (07:52) How working together daily has strengthened their relationship and discipline • (09:01) The role of business study, marketing, and consistency in their success • (10:44) Mindset and self-talk strategies for overcoming challenges • (11:28) Lessons learned from early work experience and discipline • (16:47) The importance of obsession, mentorship, and applying knowledge in business • (18:47) Advice for young women pursuing their dreams with confidence • (19:28) Thinking outside the box and creating your own path • (23:44) Practical tips for embracing vintage elegance in everyday life • (27:28) How to connect with them and work with their brand Notable Quotes: • "This too shall pass." • "We have to saturate and flood this market with our message." • "The show must go on." • "Just have a crazy belief and confidence in yourself." • "Anything in this world is achievable." • "If it's meant to be, it's up to we." Takeaways: • Success often comes from aligning your work with what you genuinely love and already practice in your life • Consistency and volume—showing up daily—are critical to building momentum in today's digital world • Mentorship and learning from those ahead of you can dramatically accelerate your growth • Mindset matters—staying grounded and solution-focused helps you move through challenges faster • Confidence in your vision is essential, even when others may not understand it • Small daily habits (like how you present yourself) can build confidence and identity over time • Being willing to pivot when something doesn't align with your long-term goals is key to sustainable success Connect with Guest: • Band Website: https://www.thewarmantrio.com/ [https://www.thewarmantrio.com/] • Instagram: @hertimelesslife https://www.instagram.com/hertimelesslife/ [https://www.instagram.com/hertimelesslife/] • Additional Links: Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Hertimelesslife/ [https://www.facebook.com/Hertimelesslife/] Connect with Us: • Follow April Kemp on Instagram: [@fanaticaldreamher] • Stay updated on new episodes of Fanatical DreamHer: https://www.fanaticaldreamher.com/ [https://www.fanaticaldreamher.com/] • April's email: april@fanaticaldreamher.com Join the DreamHer Community: Subscribe, share, and leave us a review if this episode inspired you. Don't forget to tag us with your favorite takeaways using #FanaticalDreamHer on social media!