Consider the Source

Crashing the Car, Quitting France, Backpacking Southeast Asia and Australian Visas

This has been an absolute whirlwind of a week. The title really captures is all so give this episode a listen to learn more about what crashing a car in France resulted in!

Start Questioning "Success" and What it Really Means TO YOU

In this episode, Sarah Smiles invites listeners into a heartfelt conversation about the power of feminine inspiration. She opens up about her own journey of allowing herself to be moved and motivated by the women around her and why giving yourself permission to be inspired is an act of strength, not weakness. Sarah also urges listeners to proceed with caution when seeking advice from others. While outside perspectives can be valuable, she reminds us that not every voice deserves equal weight and that discernment is key when deciding whose counsel to take to heart. At the core of the episode is a call to trust yourself. Sarah encourages listeners to let their intuition lead the way, leaning into that inner knowing rather than second-guessing it. And in a message that's equal parts practical and empowering, she challenges the idea that obligation should always come before desire reminding us that what we want to do deserves a seat at the table alongside what we have to do.

Money and the Fear of Perception is Standing Between You and Your Dream Life

Coming to you from my bedroom in France. I talk about walking away from a salaried engineering job to becoming an au pair in France

Katie Gerson | Denver Female Owned Small Business Series | Human Resources

Katie Gerson, founder and owner of KG People Consulting, joins Sarah Smiles for an insightful conversation that pulls back the curtain on the world of Human Resources. Often misunderstood as the “fun police,” Katie shares what HR actually does behind the scenes and why strong people practices are essential to building healthy, high-performing workplaces. Drawing on her experience advising companies and professionals alike, Katie offers practical guidance for today’s job seekers — from how to stand out in a competitive market to the mistakes that can quietly derail an application. She also discusses what hiring teams are truly looking for, how candidates can better advocate for themselves, and why authenticity matters more than ever throughout the search process. Beyond resumes and interviews, the conversation explores the evolving role of HR as a strategic partner rather than an administrative function. Katie breaks down common misconceptions, explains how thoughtful leadership shapes company culture, and shares what employees should understand about navigating workplace dynamics. This episode is packed with candid insights, actionable advice, and a refreshing perspective on the human side of work — whether you’re actively job hunting, building a team, or simply curious about what really happens inside HR.

Samantha Maye | Denver Female Owned Small Business Series | Elopement Photography

In this episode, Sarah Smiles, host of Consider the Source, sits down with Samantha, the photographer and creative force behind Maye.Be [http://Maye.Be] Take A Photo, a Colorado-based elopement and adventure wedding photography and planning brand. Through an honest and inspiring conversation, Sarah and Samantha explore what it means to design a wedding day that feels intentional, personal, and rooted in experience rather than tradition. Samantha shares how her business grew from a playful idea into a full-scale creative practice centered on elopements, microweddings, and intimate celebrations in nature. She explains her philosophy of documenting real moments while encouraging couples to be fully present — a mindset that aligns with the brand’s mantra: live the moment first, then take the photo. Sarah guides the conversation into Samantha’s role beyond photography, highlighting how she supports couples through location scouting, timeline creation, and elopement planning, making the process approachable and stress-free. Together, they discuss why more couples are choosing non-traditional paths and how intentional celebrations can feel more aligned, meaningful, and joyful. Throughout the episode, Sarah Smiles brings her signature curiosity and warmth, creating space for a conversation about creativity, entrepreneurship, and redefining what milestone moments can look like. This episode is an inspiring listen for anyone drawn to adventure, storytelling, or building a business that reflects their values.