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

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.

Episode 47, Reinventing Midlife with Terri Hanson Mead

Who says your best years are behind you after 40? On this episode, Jessica Danel sits down with helicopter pilot, angel investor, and midlife troublemaker Terri Hanson Mead—a woman on a mission to help others blow up the boxes society handed them. Terri shares her unapologetic take on the "messy middle," midlife identity crises, career pivots, and why playing it safe is the riskiest move you can make. With wisdom, wit, and zero BS, she reminds us that midlife isn't a crisis—it's your chance to rewrite the rules and take the damn controls.

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

Step into a world where angels, demons, and humans collide—and where the line between love and duty isn’t so clear. In thisepisode, Jessica Danel sits down with fantasy author J.F. Monroe, whose LegendaryGuardians series reimagines the Four Horsemen mythology through heart, humor, and high stakes. We’ll explore how fantasy can be more than just magic and monsters—it’s a mirror for human connection, redemption, and resilience. Fromjuggling motherhood and a day job to releasing her debut novel and its sequel Descent Into the Voidheart, J.F. shares how she blends epic storytelling with everyday relatability. If you've ever wondered how stories like The Hunger Games or Lord of the Rings can inspire us to face our own challenges, you’ll love this conversation.

Episode 45, Menopause, Meltdowns, and Career Reboots with Wendy Alexander

In this engaging conversation, Wendy Alexander shares her remarkable journey from growing up in apartheid South Africa to becoming a successful career coach and author. She discusses the challenges of single motherhood, the importance of resilience, and the journey of reinventing oneself in midlife. Wendy emphasizes the significance of health and well-being, the power of storytelling, and the need for women to pursue their passions while maintaining financial stability. Her insights inspire listeners to embrace their journeys and seek fulfillment in their careers and lives.