If you’ve been feeling lost, unsure of what’s next, or questioning your own worth, this episode is your reminder that you are capable of far more than you realize. You’ll hear a heartfelt story of rediscovering self-belief and be guided through a powerful affirmation journey to help you let go of fear, doubt, and self-criticism—so you can rise into confidence, clarity, and purpose.
This isn’t just another motivational talk. It’s an experience designed to help you reconnect with who you are at your core. You’ll be invited to slow down, breathe deeply, and feel the power of your own words as you move from gentle self-reflection to fired-up, unstoppable motivation. Together, we’ll anchor into gratitude, build confidence, and open the door to abundance and possibility.
By the end, you’ll feel lighter, more centered, and ready to take that next bold step toward the life you’ve been dreaming about—because you deserve it.
If you're ready for more inspiration and empowerment, join the supportive community inside Badass Book Besties, where readers come together every other month to dive into personal growth and development books that inspire lasting change. We meet twice a month to discuss, reflect, and connect through conversations that spark transformation and self-discovery.
For those craving deeper guidance and accountability, explore one-on-one coaching. Coaching sessions are designed to help you break through fear, realign with your goals, and build the confidence to create the life you truly want.
You already have everything you need inside you—the courage, the strength, and the power to make it happen. Let this episode be your reminder to believe in yourself, trust your journey, and step fully into your most badass life.
Ever dreamed of writing a book but have no idea where tostart? This episode takes you behind the scenes of the From Idea to Outline workshop — a transformational session that helps writers go from scattered thoughts to a clear, confident writing plan.
Inside, you’ll learn:
✨ How to capture every idea and organize it into a powerful “brain dump” that sparks clarity.
✨ The simple 4-step process that turns chaos into a workable book outline.
✨ How writers used tools like ChatGPT and Trello to visualize their stories from beginning to end.
✨ Real participant breakthroughs — from discovering their book titles to mapping out key scenes they couldn’t wait to write.
✨ Action steps you can take today to finally start your own writing journey.
Whether you’re writing fiction or nonfiction, this episodewill help you find focus, structure, and creative momentum so you can turn your story idea into something real.
Watch the full workshop replay here: From Idea to Outline
Ready to build your confidence and spark your creativity through books, writing, and meaningful conversations? Join the Badass Book Besties Membership
Need one-on-one support to write the book of your dreams? Check out Badass Writing Coach Packages
Elizabeth Zott isn’t just a character—she’s a revolution in a lab coat. In Session 2 of our Female Fiction Reads book club, we’re diving into Bonnie Garmus’ bestselling novel Lessons in Chemistry, a story our group rated an incredible 4.6 out of 5 stars.
This episode explores the powerful themes that made this book unforgettable:
How Supper at Six transformed kitchens into classrooms of empowerment.
Why Calvin’s sudden death and Elizabeth’s grief still spark debate.
The weight of internalized misogyny—and how women continue to push back.
The bold quotes that made us shout “booyah!” in our discussion.
Faith, science, and the fight for women to be seen beyond “pretty.”
If you loved Lessons in Chemistry or just want to be part of an honest, empowering book club conversation, you’re in the right place.
📚 Grab your copy of the book here: Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
👉 Want to join the conversation live next time? Come hang out with us inside Female Fiction Reads at badassbookbesties.com.
Join us for Session 1 of our Lessons in Chemistry book club discussion as we dive deep into Bonnie Garmus’s bestselling novel and the unforgettable Elizabeth Zott. In this episode, we talk about:
✨ Elizabeth Zott’s bold fight against sexism in the workplace
✨ The emotional impact of Calvin’s character arc and untimely death
✨ Our mixed feelings on the Supper at Six timeline framing
✨ Why Six-Thirty the dog has completely stolen our hearts
✨ The powerful themes of feminism, found family, and resilience
We also compare the Apple TV+ series with the book, chat about the era’s challenges for women, and even share drink pairings (like Limoncello Spritz + Educated Guess Cabernet) for your own book club night.
Whether you’ve read the book, watched the series, or are just curious what all the hype is about, this discussion will have you nodding along, laughing, and reflecting on how much things have—and haven’t—changed since Elizabeth Zott’s time.
📚 Join the Badass Book Besties community at badassbookbesties.com for the full reading schedule, bonus discussion questions, and live meetups.
If you need a copy of the book:
What does it really take to push past fear, find resilience, and finally finish the dream you’ve been carrying inside you? In this inspiring episode of the Badass Books and Besties podcast, I sit down with Julie Cropp Gareleck—bestselling author, CEO, entrepreneur, and respected leader with more than 25 years of experience helping businesses and individuals thrive.
Julie is the author of Dare to Become: From the Corner Booth to the Corner Office, a powerful book that blends personal stories with professional wisdom. In our conversation, she opens up about:
✨ How to overcome self-doubt and imposter syndrome as a writer and entrepreneur
✨ Why resilience matters more than “overnight success”
✨ The role of accountability and deadlines in finishing a book or big project
✨ How journaling and storytelling fuel creativity
✨ The life mottos that carried her through fear, failure, and success
✨ What it really means to aspire to be, dare to become
Whether you’re dreaming of writing your first book, building a business, or simply becoming the best version of yourself, Julie’s story will encourage you to take the leap—even when it’s scary.
📚 Learn more about Julie Cropp Gareleck:
If you’re always chasing the next goal, how can you truly enjoy where you are right now? In this heartfelt episode of Badass Books and Besties, Brianna shares her personal journey of slowing down, finding peace in the present, and letting go of the pressure to always “be ahead.”
From a life-changing health diagnosis to the emotional highs and lows of publishing her debut novel, she opens up about the lessons learned through loss, career shifts, and big wins. You’ll hear inspiring wisdom from Brené Brown, Jen Sincero, Brianna Wiest, and Jon Kabat-Zinn, along with three simple, powerful practices to help you be more present every day.
Whether you’re in a season of transition or just need a reminder to breathe, this episode is a warm, empowering nudge to find fulfillment in the “right now.”
📚 Books Mentioned in This Episode:
Want to feel more grounded and at peace with where you are right now? This is exactly the kind of work I do as a coach. Together, we’ll cut through the overwhelm, get clear on what matters most, and create a life you actually enjoy living—not just someday, but starting now. Book a free connection call: Badass Life Coaching
This week, the Besties dive into the second half of Other Birds by Sarah Addison Allen, wrapping up their heartfelt, laughter-filled book club discussion.
Join Brianna and the “Female Fiction Reads Book Club” crew as they unpack magical realism, plot twists, and the beauty of found family in this gem of a novel. Get ready for deep reflections, surprising reveals, and honest conversations about grief, closure, human connection, and the ways books make us feel less alone.
In This Episode:
How the book’s ending both delighted and surprised the group
Why character integrity and personal values resonated with everyone
Magical touches: What’s up with Pigeon? And did everyone catch all the clues?
Grief, memory, and the stories we tell ourselves about people we’ve lost
The power and complexity of friendships—both instant and lifelong
Standout scenes: moving day, breakfast, and a Tupperware tangent you don’t want to miss!
Parallels with real life: what makes a friendship last, and how to find “your people”
The group’s favorite plot twists and character journeys (yes, Lucy and the “coming home” theme)
Visceral reactions: tears (happy and sad), laughter, goosebumps, and the comfort of a “warm blanket book”
Quotable Moments:
“This book really proves the bonds of friendship can be just as strong as the bonds of family.” – Catie
“She stayed true to her character … her trauma, her truth, and that’s who she was.” – Amy
“If the people around you don’t love you just as you are, find new people.” – Kello (as quoted by Zoe)
“You walked away from the book still with stuff to think about, but feeling good.” – Mary
Book Club Stars:
Other Birds earned a near-perfect 4.8/5 stars from the Badass Book Besties club.
Join the Conversation:
Share your thoughts, reactions, and favorite Other Birds moments with the Besties community at badassbookbesties.com. Want to join the book club or suggest a future read? There’s always a seat for you!
Connect with Brianna:
Instagram & Facebook: @badassbookbestie
In this first session of our Badass Book Besties Female Fiction Reads Bookclub, we’re diving into Other Birds by Sarah Addison Allen—a beautifully written novel full of magical realism, found family, and emotional transformation.
Set on the fictional Mallow Island in South Carolina, Other Birds introduces us to Zoey, a young woman who inherits her late mother’s apartment and finds herself surrounded by quirky neighbors, long-held secrets, and the ghosts of the past—literally.
Join us as we explore the first half of the book, discussing themes of grief, self-discovery, and the invisible threads that connect us. Whether you’re already a fan of magical realism, curious about Allen’s writing style, or just love meaningful book club conversations, this episode is for you.
📚 Other Birds was a Goodreads Choice Awards nominee and has touched readers with its lyrical prose and heartfelt characters.
👉 Want to read along with us? Join the full Badass Book Besties community at BadassBookBesties.com, where we meet twice a month to discuss powerful fiction written by female authors.
🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a review to help more book lovers find us!
After years of dreaming and doubting, Brianna J.J. Brown has officially become a published author. In this intimate episode, she’s taking you behind the scenes of the journey that led to her debut novel, Perpetually 24.
This isn’t just a writing story—it’s a becoming story. It’s about heartbreak, identity, healing, and the quiet power of finally telling the truth on your own terms.
Brianna opens up about the real emotions and lived experiences that inspired her fictional protagonist, Aria Rose. She shares how Perpetually 24 came together: late-night journal entries, real-life heartbreaks, Trello boards, and love letters rewritten into fiction. One messy, magical piece at a time, this story came to life.
You’ll hear:
Why Perpetually 24 speaks to anyone who’s ever outgrown a version of themselves and is still figuring out who they’re meant to be
The creative chaos behind the book—from voice memos and love letters to Trello boards and midnight writing sessions
If you’ve ever lost yourself in love, doubted your worth, or chased healing through art—this episode will hit home.
✨ Grab your copy of Perpetually 24 on Amazon
📬 Message Brianna with your favorite moments on Instagram
📚 Join the Badass Book Besties community and keep the conversation going
Calling all book-lovers! Are you ready to join a vibrant community of passionate readers and expand your literary horizons? Look no further than the Badass Book Besties membership! Founded by Brianna, this membership is a haven for women who love to read and connect with like-minded individuals. Here are 3 key takeaways for you:
1. Embrace a Diverse Range of Genres: Whether you're a fan of young adult fiction, nonfiction, or adult novels, the Badass Book Besties membership offers a plethora of reading options. From book clubs that feature female authors to discussions on self-help and transformational books, you'll have the opportunity to explore and celebrate a wide variety of genres.
2. Create Meaningful Connections: In a world where time seems to slip through our fingers, finding the time to read and build connections can be challenging. With the Badass Book Besties membership, you'll have the chance to connect with a diverse group of women who share your passion for reading. Engage in intellectual conversations, expand your views, and form friendships that go beyond the pages of a book.
3. Experience Personal Growth: The membership's Lotus Academy focuses on self-improvement, with a success path that guides you through different stages of your reading journey. From beginner levels to exploring the transformative power of books, you'll have access to a resource library with motivational content, creative writing ideas, and a supportive community to encourage your personal growth through reading.
Join the Badass Book Besties community and start your journey towards literary exploration, meaningful connections, and personal growth. Don't miss out on the opportunity to engage in intellectual discussions, expand your reading repertoire, and form lasting friendships.
Ready to become a Badass Book Bestie? Sign up now and uncover the magic of reading with a supportive community!
#BadassBookBesties #ReadingCommunity #LiteraryExploration
In this episode, we will embrace the power of literature, self-care, and personal growth. Our special guest Stephanie Affinito, a devoted literacy educator, shares her passion for reading, writing, and empowering others to find joy in literacy. Join us as we explore the transformative power of books, the importance of creating a reading culture at home, and the therapeutic aspects of writing. Together, we'll delve into banned books, the impact of reading on personal growth, and the unique relationship between reading and self-care. So grab your favorite book, a cozy spot, and let's dive into the world of literature with Stephanie Affinito.
Stephanie's journey to finding her most badass self has evolved over time. As a child, she dreamt of being rich, famous, and a singer. During her motherhood years, she found empowerment in juggling her kids' busy schedules. Now, Stephanie's definition of living a badass life is asking herself tough questions and actively listening to her own desires and needs. This phase of her life is about taking action and leaving behind a meaningful legacy. Stephanie's story is a testament to the evolution of self-discovery and empowerment.
In this episode, you'll hear:
To learn more about Stephanie, visit her at her website, A Lit Life.
In today's episode, I want to share with you about the power of learning to manifest your desires. If you have something you envision for your life, and you desire it so powerfully, but feel like you haven't been able to push past that threshold of receiving it, then this is the podcast episode for you.
I will be breaking down some of the fantastic life lessons found within the book, “Ask and It Is Given” by Esther and Jerry Hicks.
Esther Hicks is a spiritual teacher who helps people to learn how to use their thoughts to create the life they want. She’s one of the most famous spiritual teachers in the world and has helped people to be successful in all areas of their life.
If you're ready to break free and receive all that you desire, be sure to listen!
If you ever need extra support or encouragement to achieve your biggest and most badass dreams, send me an e-mail at briannabrown@badassbookbesties.com. To find out more about our Badass Book Besties membership, check us out at badassbookbesties.com
Welcome back to another episode of the Badass Books and Besties! I'm your host, Brianna Brown, and today we have a very special guest joining us - MJ Foley, a published author who is here to share her journey and insights. MJ's passion for reading and writing was ignited by her grandfather, and she has since followed her dreams while balancing a successful career in the healthcare industry. After working in an emergency department during the pandemic, MJ decided to pursue her lifelong ambition of publishing a novel. Her debut book, "The Foreboding," leverages her background in cognitive science, science writing, and engineering to create a unique and compelling story. In today's episode, MJ will share with us the process behind writing and publishing her book, the challenges she faced, and the fulfillment she found in pursuing her passion. We'll also delve into the importance of pushing past societal expectations and doing what truly brings us joy. So, grab your headphones and get ready to be inspired to live your own most badass life as we dive into our interview with MJ Foley.
Here are 3 key takeaways from MJ's journey that I hope will inspire you:
1️⃣ Pursue Your Passions: The pandemic has reminded us of the value of prioritizing what brings us joy. MJ used this time as a catalyst to finally pursue her dream of writing a book. Remember, it's never too late to chase your passions and unlock your most badass self! 💪
2️⃣ Seek Support and Guidance: MJ's success is not only attributed to her dedication but also to the guidance she received from the Modern Author Accelerator Program and her team of editors. Don't be afraid to seek out programs, mentors, or professional support to help you navigate your own creative journey. 📚🎨
3️⃣ Embrace Hybrid Publishing: MJ chose the hybrid publishing route for her book, enabling her to retain all the rights and have control over the various formats and platforms. Hybrid publishing may involve more upfront expenses, but it also offers more creative freedom and higher royalties. Consider exploring different publishing options that align with your goals. 📖✨
If you're curious to learn more about MJ Foley and her incredible work, make sure to check out "The Foreboding," available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and through indie bookstores. Let's show our support by leaving reviews on Goodreads and Amazon. 🌟 You can also find her online:
Instagram: @m.j._foley.author
Facebook: M.J. Foley
TikTok: @the_foreboding Website: www.mjfoleyauthor.com Goodreads: M.J. Foley https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/162448784
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/author/mjfoley
Learn more about Brianna at her website, BadassBooksandBesties.com or her membership, BadassBookBesties.com
In this episode, I will share a variety of ways that my family and I are choosing to honor the Native Americans on the 4th Thursday in November, instead of celebrating Thanksgiving.
I’ll first start with a reading of the “Native American Good Morning Message” by chief Jake Swamp, and then I’ll provide information on why honoring the Native Americans is vitally important, various Native American dishes that you can try with your own family, culturally appropriate Native American crafts, how to learn more about the culture with documentaries or movies, and recommendations for fantastic books to read.
I truly hope you’ll take notes during this episode, so that you too can have a wondrous Native American Celebration. Also, if you have any ideas to share, I’d love to hear them, so be sure to email me at briannabrown@badassbookbesties.com
Resources:
Sources:
Children's Book Recommendations:
Adult Book Recommendations:
In this episode, you'll discover the deep dive into the core elements of living a badass life: incredible books and besties. The podcast is now your go-to destination for inspiration, book recommendations, and empowering conversations with amazing women. Learn about how embracing authenticity, sharing your story, and expressing your worthiness can lead to a life that truly lights your soul on fire. 🌟 Uncover the three steps to becoming a badass woman outlined in this episode:
😄 But wait, there's more! Brianna Brown introduces the all-new website: badassbooksandbesties.com. Your hub for podcast show notes, previous episodes, book recommendations, inspirational content, and details about the Badass Book Besties membership. Get ready for a space that's dedicated to all things badass, bookish, and besties.
🎉 Don't miss out on the goodness! If you loved this episode and want to be part of a community that celebrates your badassery, head over to badassbooksandbesties.com. Join the movement, discover new books, and connect with incredible women who, just like you, are on a journey to live their most badass lives.
💃🏼 "Dance like everyone is watching. Let them see you being who you wish to be, and not some version they expect you to be. You are more than enough. You are a fucking badass woman." 🌟
👉 For more amazing content, show notes, and inspiration, visit badassbooksandbesties.com. And if you're ready to make deeper connections with badass women, explore the membership at badassbookbesties.com. Until next time, always keep your glass and bookshelves full, besties! 🥂📚
In today's episode, we have a captivating interview with Brianna, a self-proclaimed book enthusiast and the founder of the Badass Book Besties. Join us as Brianna shares her journey of finding her true calling and living her best life through her love for books and connection with other women. From her educational background leading to becoming a mompreneur, to her inspiring book club and creative writing ventures, Brianna's story is sure to ignite your passion for living authentically and embarking on your own badass journey.
You'll hear the following takeaways:
If you’ve got an idea you'd like to share on the podcast or you’d like to join my virtual book club – send me an email! mostbadasslifepodcast@gmail.com. I would love to hear from you! Find out more about the Badass Book Besties or check us out on Facebook.
In this episode, we have a special guest, Kate Shelton, who will be sharing her inspiring journey as an author and freelancer. Kate takes us through the process of querying agents, landing a book deal, and navigating the sometimes challenging world of traditional publishing. She also dives into her experience as a freelancer and how she built a successful career from the ground up. Join us as we uncover the secrets to finding success, the importance of perseverance, and the joy of living your most badass life. Get ready to be inspired and motivated to pursue your own dreams!
In this interview, you hear the following takeaways:
Follow her on IG: Kate Shelton IG and at her website: Kate Shelton, Author
If you’ve got an idea you'd like to share on the podcast or you’d like to join my virtual book club – send me an email! mostbadasslifepodcast@gmail.com. I would love to hear from you! Find out more about the Badass Book Besties or check us out on Facebook.
The full show notes can be found at Most Badass Life Podcast.
Today, we are going to empower you to light up your worth! In today's episode, I have the absolute pleasure of interviewing Debbie McAllister. We dive deep into the world of energetic healing, ancestral healing, and womb healing to help you break free from negative patterns and embrace your true worth. Our guest shares her personal journey of overcoming childhood adversities, delving into the importance of safety and healing. We also explore the connection between dreams, fears, and past traumas, discovering how healing can lead to transformation. Through Debbie’s own podcast, Light Up Your Worth, she has grown as an incredibly inspiring speaker who connects with people's stories, finding fulfillment in their journeys. We discuss the power of fear as both a safety mechanism and a hurdle to personal growth, encouraging you to embrace fear and trust the process. Let go of comparing yourself to others and understand that personal growth is unique and ongoing. We also address misconceptions about alternative healing practices, urging you to educate yourself and find a self-care practice that aligns with your beliefs. Join us as we dive into the depths of self-exploration and share stories that will inspire you on your own journey to living your most badass life.
Debbie McAllister is a Breakthrough Catalyst Coach and the host of the Light Up Your Worth podcast.
She is also a fur baby mom, once a single momma to an empty nester of a son who continues to inspire her, a spiritual diva, and a mid-life resilient woman who did not give up on herself until she discovered her own worth and self-acceptance after five decades of struggle and found peace.
She guides spiritually curious women to release the mental & emotional blocks that keep them stuck so they can discover the unbelievable resources within themselves, ignite their light, and empower them in building a consciously intentional radiant life. After being a part-time college student, and an involved single momma while rising in her career for seventeen years, her formal education includes a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Master’s in Healthcare Administration, The Coaches Institute, and John C. Maxwell certified coach & speaker, Lean Six Sigma Sensei, and thousands of hours of leadership and personal development education. In addition, she holds a range of certifications, including Advanced Sacred Soul Alignment Practitioner™, Sacred Light Practitioner, Usui Reiki Master, and The Journey Practitioner™ along with other healing modalities.
Her superpower is helping others see their inner worth, reconnect with their true selves, and lean into their worth. In addition to her spiritual breakthrough catalyst coaching practice, she also works with healthcare leaders as a professional facilitator teaching scientific problem-solving, strategy development, and leadership coaching.
No matter where she shows up, or to whom, she is seeking ways to help others feel happier, more confident, and live a more carefree life, whether that's through women's personal development, travel adventures, or dog kisses.
To reach Debbie: Try the Ignite Your Inner Sparkle! Energetic healing on limiting beliefs to reconnect with your inner sparkle! https://lightupyourworth.net/home
What if there were no inner barriers, what would your radiant life look like? Unlock your heartfelt desires! Get Unstuck Coaching packages https://lightupyourworth.net/get-unstuck-coaching
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lightupyourworth
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/Lightupyourworthpodcast
Facebook Business Page: https://www.facebook.com/LightUpYourWorthwithDebbieMcAllister
If you’ve got an idea you'd like to share on the podcast or you’d like to join my virtual book club – send me an email! mostbadasslifepodcast@gmail.com. I would love to hear from you! Find out more about the Badass Besties Club or on Facebook.
The full show notes can be found at Most Badass Life Podcast.
If you're an Elizabeth Gilbert fan and a lover of well crafted stories, you'll love the book, City of Girls by Elizabeth Gilbert.
In this episode, you'll hear an in depth summary of the novel, drink recommendations to accompany the book, and my personal review.
Find the novel on Amazon or Bookshop.org.
If you’ve got an idea you'd like to share on the podcast or you’d like to join my virtual book club – send me an email! mostbadasslifepodcast@gmail.com. I would love to hear from you!
Find out more about the Badass Besties Club or on Facebook.
The full show notes can be found at Most Badass Life Podcast.
In this episode, we have a special guest, Renee Reisch, a renowned coach specializing in empowering women in business, executives, and leadership. Renee's mission is to help women step out of their comfort zones, gain confidence, and find their authentic voices.
Renee's Facebook group, the "Finding Your Voice Network," provides a space for women to connect and support each other. Through workshops, coaching, and courses, Renee is committed to helping individuals make a bigger impact and show up more authentically in all areas of their lives.
In this inspiring conversation, Renee shares her personal journey, the impact of having a strong support system, and the power of finding one's own voice. She also delves into the importance of self-validation, the impact of social media on our mental and emotional well-being, and the significance of joy in the journey.
Join us as Renee takes us on a transformative exploration of personal growth, self-worth, and the power of vulnerability. It's time to unleash your inner badass and live life on your own terms.
If you’ve got an idea you'd like to share on the podcast or you’d like to join my virtual book club – send me an email! mostbadasslifepodcast@gmail.com. I would love to hear from you! Find out more about the Badass Book Besties or check us out on Facebook.
The full show notes can be found at Most Badass Life Podcast.