In this episode, Amanda sits down with Brooke Eden, a critically-acclaimed country music artist hailed by Billboard as a "fiery country star-in-the-making." Named one of CMT's Next Women of Country and nominated for outstanding breakthrough artist by both CMT Music Awards and GLAAD Media Awards, Brooke has shared stages with Garth Brooks, Trisha Yearwood, Tim McGraw, Kane Brown, and Keith Urban. Brooke has used her personal journey to self-acceptance to create music that is both bold and passionate with the message that it is okay to be who you are. Key Discussion Points: - Brooke’s five-year secret relationship with her now wife and the physical/mental health toll of living a double life - The pivotal moment reading "Untamed" by Glennon Doyle that inspired her to come out publicly through her song, “Sunroof” - How "Sunroof", went viral and helped change the conversation about who belongs in country music - The unglamorous realities of the music business - Why having good legal representation and reading your own contracts is crucial for young artists - Her family's journey from rejection to acceptance and creating safe spaces in conservative industries - Becoming a mother to son Beckham and her new side project "The Cowgays" Links: https://www.brookeeden.com Join the Conversation: Have thoughts on today's episode? Connect with Amanda and the community on LinkedIn @ in/amandahendy and share your insights about authenticity, the music business, or creating change in traditional industries! Support the Show: If you enjoyed this episode, please consider supporting our work by subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing this episode with your network. Every bit helps us bring important conversations like this to a wider audience. Enjoy! x Amanda

In this episode, Amanda welcomes Sarah Schmidt, a clinical psychologist, health coach, and host of the Wholey Schmidt podcast. Sarah has dedicated her work to unpacking the complexities of emotional health, authenticity, and human connection. Sarah brings a unique vulnerability and openness to this conversation as she shares her personal journey through grief, loneliness, self-discovery, motherhood, and embracing change after 50. This is a really powerful episode with lots of great tips for navigating difficult emotions and owning your purpose in life.