Why Your First Year in Business Feels So Hard (And What to Do Next)

Why Clarissa Castillo-Ramsey Stopped Hiding and Started Creating

What happens when life forces you to slow down and rediscover who you really are? In this heartfelt conversation, Cydnie sits down with artist, author, and podcast host Clarissa Castillo-Ramsey to explore the connection between creativity, healing, and self-expression. From growing up believing that being an artist wasn't a viable path to navigating a rare vocal condition that challenged her identity and career, Clarissa shares how art became her way back to herself. Together, they dive into the power of embracing life's pivots, processing trauma through creativity, and learning to trust the path unfolding in front of you, even when it doesn't look the way you expected. Whether you're feeling stuck, questioning your next chapter, or searching for a way to reconnect with yourself, this conversation is a reminder that your voice matters and that it's never too late to begin again. In This Episode We Discuss: * How childhood messages can shape the way we express ourselves as adults * Clarissa's journey with spasmodic dysphonia and learning to show up despite fear and uncertainty * Why creativity can be a powerful tool for healing and nervous system regulation * The connection between trauma, self-expression, and finding your authentic voice * Navigating career pivots, identity shifts, and the messy middle of transformation * How art, music, and creative practices help us process emotions and reconnect with ourselves * Why the path you're meant for may look different than the one you originally planned Connect with Clarissa Castillo-Ramsey Website: https://clarissastudio.com/?fbclid=IwRlRTSASVVW5leHRuA2FlbQIxMABzcnRjBmFwcF9pZAo2NjI4NTY4Mzc5AAEegpvwgJgUdHbNuW8YhzgwHU71SFMKUme9HaaXn5jrYNJDmlBN-BUwgjv4YyQ_aem_E06SyMbPIWIe2hib9tZD9Q Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1JBLTJdeN1/?mibextid=wwXIfr Whether you're navigating a pivot, moving through your own messy middle, or feeling called to something more, you're not alone. Let's Connect: https://www.honeybook.com/widget/cydnie_jocelyn_collective_299013/cf_id/69fa372ccd31fefc073c5d28 [https://www.honeybook.com/widget/cydnie_jocelyn_collective_299013/cf_id/69fa372ccd31fefc073c5d28] Brand Strategy Sessions: https://www.honeybook.com/widget/cydnie_jocelyn_collective_299013/cf_id/69fa2c21135cac3202524041 [https://www.honeybook.com/widget/cydnie_jocelyn_collective_299013/cf_id/69fa2c21135cac3202524041] Crete, Greece Retreat 2027: www.cydniejocelyn.com/greece-retreat [http://www.cydniejocelyn.com/greece-retreat] Retreat Pre-Registration: https://www.honeybook.com/widget/cydnie_jocelyn_collective_299013/cf_id/69fa3c69e63a7a4c9bb354f1 [https://www.honeybook.com/widget/cydnie_jocelyn_collective_299013/cf_id/69fa3c69e63a7a4c9bb354f1] Private & Corporate Retreat Inquiries: https://www.honeybook.com/widget/cydnie_jocelyn_collective_299013/cf_id/69fa33ac59c6a6842e88b725 [https://www.honeybook.com/widget/cydnie_jocelyn_collective_299013/cf_id/69fa33ac59c6a6842e88b725] Explore More: https://linktr.ee/cydniejocelynllc [https://linktr.ee/cydniejocelynllc] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2501709/support] This podcast reflects my personal experience, not professional or medical advice. If you or someone you love is struggling, please reach out to a licensed provider for support.

I Quit My Job, Started a Podcast, and Everything Pivoted

Can you believe it’s already been one full year of She Rises Through It? One year of messy middles. One year of pivots. One year of healing, burnout, breakthroughs, faith, entrepreneurship, motherhood, and learning how to honor the woman I’m becoming truly. And honestly? I still can’t believe how much life can change in just one year. I open up about leaving the corporate world, the emotional breaking point that changed everything, how God completely redirected my life, and the moments that cracked me wide open in the best way possible. From surfing in Costa Rica and putting in my notice at a draining job, to getting baptized, dedicating my children to Christ, and building a business rooted in purpose instead of pressure, this episode is the most honest reflection I’ve shared yet. This conversation is for anyone navigating burnout, faith, personal growth, entrepreneurship, motherhood, or the messy middle of becoming who they’re meant to be. In This Episode, I Talk About: * The one-year evolution of She Rises Through It * Leaving a toxic work environment and choosing alignment over survival * How Costa Rica, faith, and retreats completely changed my life * Navigating motherhood, healing, entrepreneurship, and burnout * Why the messy middle deserves to be honored too Major Moments From This Last Year: * Launching the podcast with no roadmap and simply trusting the process * Going to Costa Rica alone and realizing my life needed to change * Reconnecting with Christ, getting baptized, and dedicating my children * Hosting my very first women’s retreat with 11 incredible women * Building a business rooted in purpose, wellness, community, and authenticity One year can completely change your life when you stop ignoring the things that are breaking you and finally start listening to what your soul has been asking for all along. If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who’s navigating their own messy middle right now. And if you’ve been feeling the pull to pivot, heal, reconnect with yourself, or finally take the risk, maybe this is your reminder to start. Let’s Connect! ✨ General Inquiries & Let’s Connect https://www.honeybook.com/widget/cydnie_jocelyn_collective_299013/cf_id/69fa372ccd31fefc073c5d28 [https://www.honeybook.com/widget/cydnie_jocelyn_collective_299013/cf_id/69fa372ccd31fefc073c5d28] ✨ Brand Strategy Sessions https://www.honeybook.com/widget/cydnie_jocelyn_collective_299013/cf_id/69fa2c21135cac3202524041 [https://www.honeybook.com/widget/cydnie_jocelyn_collective_299013/cf_id/69fa2c21135cac3202524041] ✨ Retreat Pre-Registration https://www.honeybook.com/widget/cydnie_jocelyn_collective_299013/cf_id/69fa3c69e63a7a4c9bb354f1 [https://www.honeybook.com/widget/cydnie_jocelyn_collective_299013/cf_id/69fa3c69e63a7a4c9bb354f1] ✨ Private & Corporate Retreat Inquiries https://www.honeybook.com/widget/cydnie_jocelyn_collective_299013/cf_id/69fa33ac59c6a6842e88b725 [https://www.honeybook.com/widget/cydnie_jocelyn_collective_299013/cf_id/69fa33ac59c6a6842e88b725] ✨ Explore More from Cydnie https://linktr.ee/cydniejocelynllc [https://linktr.ee/cydniejocelynllc] 🌿 Pioneer Pam Tinctures:  https://pioneerpam.com?sca_ref=10153950.2pXEgTTkxcF [https://pioneerpam.com/?sca_ref=10153950.2pXEgTTkxcF] Mullein tincture: https://pioneerpam.com/products/mullein-tincture?sca_ref=10153950.2pXEgTTkxcF [https://pioneerpam.com/products/mullein-tincture?sca_ref=10153950.2pXEgTTkxcF] Elderberry: https://pioneerpam.com/products/elderberry-tincture?sca_ref=10153950.2pXEgTTkxcF [https://pioneerpam.com/products/elderberry-tincture?sca_ref=10153950.2pXEgTTkxcF] Phytotox anti-aging: https://pioneerpam.com/products/phytotox-bundle-pre-sale?sca_ref=10153950.2pXEgTTkxcF [https://pioneerpam.com/products/phytotox-bundle-pre-sale?sca_ref=10153950.2pXEgTTkxcF] These have been part of my grounding rituals, especially the Phytotox Anti-Aging Line, supporting calm, healthy, radiant skin during emotionally demanding seasons. ⚡ Bioactive Precision Peptides by Make Wellness: https://makewellness.com/2D969F9DA7/shopping/item?itemId=46&categoryID=31 [https://makewellness.com/2D969F9DA7/shopping/item?itemId=46&categoryID=31] --- Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2501709/support] This podcast reflects my personal experience, not professional or medical advice. If you or someone you love is struggling, please reach out to a licensed provider for support.

I Finally Hosted My First Retreat! (Proof That Taking the Risk Is Worth It)

And this what happens when you finally stop rushing through life long enough to actually feel it! A year ago, I came to Costa Rica trying to find myself. This time, I returned holding space for 11 women who were also craving clarity, connection, healing, rest, and a chance to reconnect with themselves again. And honestly… can you believe it? Because I still can’t sometimes. A year ago, I was the woman showing up to a retreat needing saving, needing space, needing to breathe again. Now I’m the one helping create that space for others. Watching these women open their hearts, trust complete strangers, and fully immerse themselves in the experience reminded me why retreats are so powerful. There were moments I stood back watching everyone laugh, cry, connect, dance, and just be present, and I kept thinking, “Wow… this is really happening.” Even through the travel chaos, the flat tire, the exhaustion, and all the pivots along the way, it still felt exactly how it was supposed to. This conversation is for anyone navigating the messy middle, feeling burned out, craving deeper connection, or wondering if they should finally take the leap into the thing that’s been sitting on their heart. In This Episode, I Talk About: * Hosting my first women’s retreat in Costa Rica * Why slowing down can completely shift your perspective * Learning to pivot when things don’t go as planned * The emotional experience of holding space for women * Why the messy middle can still become something beautiful If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who’s navigating their own messy middle or feeling disconnected from themselves lately. And if you’ve ever felt called to step away, slow down, and experience a retreat for yourself, maybe this is your sign. Let’s Connect! ✨ General Inquiries & Let’s Connect https://www.honeybook.com/widget/cydnie_jocelyn_collective_299013/cf_id/69fa372ccd31fefc073c5d28 [https://www.honeybook.com/widget/cydnie_jocelyn_collective_299013/cf_id/69fa372ccd31fefc073c5d28] ✨ Brand Strategy Sessions https://www.honeybook.com/widget/cydnie_jocelyn_collective_299013/cf_id/69fa2c21135cac3202524041 [https://www.honeybook.com/widget/cydnie_jocelyn_collective_299013/cf_id/69fa2c21135cac3202524041] ✨ Retreat Pre-Registration https://www.honeybook.com/widget/cydnie_jocelyn_collective_299013/cf_id/69fa3c69e63a7a4c9bb354f1 [https://www.honeybook.com/widget/cydnie_jocelyn_collective_299013/cf_id/69fa3c69e63a7a4c9bb354f1] ✨ Private & Corporate Retreat Inquiries https://www.honeybook.com/widget/cydnie_jocelyn_collective_299013/cf_id/69fa33ac59c6a6842e88b725 [https://www.honeybook.com/widget/cydnie_jocelyn_collective_299013/cf_id/69fa33ac59c6a6842e88b725] ✨ Explore More from Cydnie https://linktr.ee/cydniejocelynllc [https://linktr.ee/cydniejocelynllc] 🌿 Pioneer Pam Tinctures:  https://pioneerpam.com?sca_ref=10153950.2pXEgTTkxcF [https://pioneerpam.com/?sca_ref=10153950.2pXEgTTkxcF] Mullein tincture: https://pioneerpam.com/products/mullein-tincture?sca_ref=10153950.2pXEgTTkxcF [https://pioneerpam.com/products/mullein-tincture?sca_ref=10153950.2pXEgTTkxcF] Elderberry: https://pioneerpam.com/products/elderberry-tincture?sca_ref=10153950.2pXEgTTkxcF [https://pioneerpam.com/products/elderberry-tincture?sca_ref=10153950.2pXEgTTkxcF] Phytotox anti-aging: https://pioneerpam.com/products/phytotox-bundle-pre-sale?sca_ref=10153950.2pXEgTTkxcF [https://pioneerpam.com/products/phytotox-bundle-pre-sale?sca_ref=10153950.2pXEgTTkxcF] These have been part of my grounding rituals, especially the Phytotox Anti-Aging Line, supporting calm, healthy, radiant skin during emotionally demanding seasons. ⚡ Bioactive Precision Peptides by Make Wellness: https://makewellness.com/2D969F9DA7/shopping/item?itemId=46&categoryID=31 [https://makewellness.com/2D969F9DA7/shopping/item?itemId=46&categoryID=31] --- Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2501709/support] This podcast reflects my personal experience, not professional or medical advice. If you or someone you love is struggling, please reach out to a licensed provider for support.

Why Your First Year in Business Feels So Hard (And What to Do Next)

What if the pivots in your life and business are not setbacks but the very thing guiding you toward purpose? In this honest solo episode, I share my thoughts just days before flying to Costa Rica to host 11 women on retreat. One year ago, I was there searching for clarity and healing. Now, I’m returning as a retreat host, entrepreneur, and someone who chose to keep going even when things felt uncertain. I open up about the emotional rollercoaster of my first year in business, taking a job that drained me, realizing stability without alignment was costing me too much, and why quitting the wrong path was one of the best decisions I made. I also share how pivots can become the very thing that moves you forward. I also break down my five-phase strategy process for helping brands and women reconnect with who they are, clarify their message, and build something meaningful in a world where authenticity matters more than ever. In This Episode, We Talk About: * Why the first year of business can feel messy and uncertain * How burnout can be a sign that something needs to change * Why quitting the wrong job is not failure * How pivots can lead you closer to purpose * Why you should never give up on what you’re building The 5 Phases I Use to Build Authentic Brands: * Phase 1: Brand Audit & Deep Discovery * Phase 2: Positioning & Messaging * Phase 3: Visual Identity & Direction * Phase 4: Website Strategy & Content Blueprint * Phase 5: Growth Strategy & Content Themes You do not need to have everything figured out. You need honesty, courage, and the willingness to pivot when life asks you to. --- If this episode resonates, here are a few aligned ways to continue your journey: ✨ Rise & Reground: The Costa Rica Experience: https://www.cydniejocelyn.com/riseandregroundcostarica2026 [https://www.cydniejocelyn.com/riseandregroundcostarica2026] I created this retreat for women in transition who are ready to slow down, regulate their nervous systems, reconnect to their bodies, and build leadership capacity before expansion. 🌿 Pioneer Pam Tinctures:  https://pioneerpam.com?sca_ref=10153950.2pXEgTTkxcF [https://pioneerpam.com/?sca_ref=10153950.2pXEgTTkxcF] Mullein tincture: https://pioneerpam.com/products/mullein-tincture?sca_ref=10153950.2pXEgTTkxcF [https://pioneerpam.com/products/mullein-tincture?sca_ref=10153950.2pXEgTTkxcF] Elderberry: https://pioneerpam.com/products/elderberry-tincture?sca_ref=10153950.2pXEgTTkxcF [https://pioneerpam.com/products/elderberry-tincture?sca_ref=10153950.2pXEgTTkxcF] Phytotox anti-aging: https://pioneerpam.com/products/phytotox-bundle-pre-sale?sca_ref=10153950.2pXEgTTkxcF [https://pioneerpam.com/products/phytotox-bundle-pre-sale?sca_ref=10153950.2pXEgTTkxcF] These have been part of my grounding rituals, especially the Phytotox Anti-Aging Line, supporting calm, healthy, radiant skin during emotionally demanding seasons. ⚡ Bioactive Precision Peptides by Make Wellness: https://makewellness.com/2D969F9DA7/shopping/item?itemId=46&categoryID=31 [https://makewellness.com/2D969F9DA7/shopping/item?itemId=46&categoryID=31] --- Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2501709/support] This podcast reflects my personal experience, not professional or medical advice. If you or someone you love is struggling, please reach out to a licensed provider for support.

Build a Business That Aligns with Your Calling with Aline Hoss

When everything feels blocked, it might not be resistance. It might be something deeper. This episode almost didn’t happen, and honestly, that’s what makes it even more meaningful. In this conversation, I sit down with Aline Hoss and we go beyond strategy, business tactics, and surface-level success. We talk about surrender, faith, purpose, and what it really looks like to build a business with God at the center. This is for anyone who feels stuck, blocked, or like something is holding them back but can’t quite explain why. Aline Hoss and I talked about:  • What it looks like to truly surrender control in life and business  • Why success, money, and achievement can still feel empty  • Building a business as ministry, not just for income  • How to recognize when resistance is spiritual, not just circumstantial  • Trusting God’s timing instead of forcing your own plans  • Discovering your God-given gifts and actually using them  • Why obedience matters more than having everything figured out If this episode spoke to you, don’t just leave it here. Take a moment today to pause, reflect, and ask yourself what God might be trying to show you in this season. And if you know someone who’s been feeling stuck, blocked, or questioning their direction, send this episode to them. It might be exactly what they need to hear right now. Connect with Aline Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alinehoss/ Website: https://www.alinehoss.com/ --- If this episode resonates, here are a few aligned ways to continue your journey: ✨ Rise & Reground: The Costa Rica Experience: https://www.cydniejocelyn.com/riseandregroundcostarica2026 [https://www.cydniejocelyn.com/riseandregroundcostarica2026] I created this retreat for women in transition who are ready to slow down, regulate their nervous systems, reconnect to their bodies, and build leadership capacity before expansion. 🌿 Pioneer Pam Tinctures:  https://pioneerpam.com?sca_ref=10153950.2pXEgTTkxcF [https://pioneerpam.com/?sca_ref=10153950.2pXEgTTkxcF] Mullein tincture: https://pioneerpam.com/products/mullein-tincture?sca_ref=10153950.2pXEgTTkxcF [https://pioneerpam.com/products/mullein-tincture?sca_ref=10153950.2pXEgTTkxcF] Elderberry: https://pioneerpam.com/products/elderberry-tincture?sca_ref=10153950.2pXEgTTkxcF [https://pioneerpam.com/products/elderberry-tincture?sca_ref=10153950.2pXEgTTkxcF] Phytotox anti-aging: https://pioneerpam.com/products/phytotox-bundle-pre-sale?sca_ref=10153950.2pXEgTTkxcF [https://pioneerpam.com/products/phytotox-bundle-pre-sale?sca_ref=10153950.2pXEgTTkxcF] These have been part of my grounding rituals, especially the Phytotox Anti-Aging Line, supporting calm, healthy, radiant skin during emotionally demanding seasons. ⚡ Bioactive Precision Peptides by Make Wellness: https://makewellness.com/2D969F9DA7/shopping/item?itemId=46&categoryID=31 [https://makewellness.com/2D969F9DA7/shopping/item?itemId=46&categoryID=31] --- Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2501709/support] This podcast reflects my personal experience, not professional or medical advice. If you or someone you love is struggling, please reach out to a licensed provider for support.