The Real Talk Network

01/07/2024

01/07/2024

One Episode #11 of Professionally Speaking Beth Batts, is joined by Hannah Venema, the creative force behind Walls and Whatnot, a company specializing in wallpaper installation, interior painting, and a variety of other design services. Growing up in a family-owned hardware store, Hannah has had a 17-year journey immersed in all things "handy," which has deeply influenced her passions—more than she ever could have imagined. Hannah shares with how her college years taught her to refine her skills and that meticulous attention to detail is crucial for any project's success. Beth and Hannah discuss the many challenges that Hannah faced during Pandemic and how she got through this.

To listen to past episodes, please visit: www.realtalkmi.com

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2306985/15341517

One Episode #11 of Professionally Speaking Beth, is joined by Hannah Venema, the creative force behind Walls and Whatnot, a company specializing in wallpaper installation, interior painting, and a variety of other design services. Growing up in a ...

13/06/2024

On Episode #10 of Professionally Speaking, Beth talks with Dr. Scott Russo a physician, surgeon, entrepreneur and life coach. Dr. Russo shares with us how his own health struggles as well as his own experiences as a surgeon helped him recognize some gaps in patient support within the healthcare system, inspiring him to found Recover Health, a company dedicated to empowering patients with comprehensive, holistic preparation for surgery. Dr. Russo and Beth discuss his transformative journey from a practicing surgeon to a visionary entrepreneur, reshaping how patients gear up for medical procedures with well-being at the forefront. This is one episode you do not want to miss. To listen to past episodes, please visit www.realtalkmi.com

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2306985/15246056

On Episode #10 of Professionally Speaking, Beth talks with Dr. Scott Russo a physician, surgeon, entrepreneur and life coach.  Dr. Russo shares with us how his own health struggles as well as his own experiences as a surgeon helped him recogn...

10/06/2024

On Episode #12 of Season Four of Real Talk with Tedi, Tedi is flying solo for this short episode on PRIDE. Tedi shares what PRIDE is, how it all started and why its important (not only in the month of June, but all year round). Included with this episode is a brief history of how the LGBTQ+ movement got started, it's dark history and ways we can all become stronger Allies and supporters of our Q***r brothers and sisters.

Tedi also shares his frustration with those who only recognize PRIDE during the month of June and the responsibilities of the Q***r people to know and share our history. To listen to past episodes, please visit: www.realtalkmi.com

https://www.buzzsprout.com/1726062/15219015

On Episode #12 of Season Four of Real Talk with Tedi, Tedi is flying solo for this short episode on PRIDE.  Tedi shares what PRIDE is, how it all started and why its important (not only in the month of June, but all year round).  Include...

03/06/2024

Please note that Tedi is taking a much needed sabbatical in June, July and August, but we hope you will use this time to revisit some of the archived podcasts from over the past 4-years. You can located these at: https://realtalkwithtedi.buzzsprout.com/

21/05/2024

On Episode #9 of Professionally Speaking, Beth Batts welcomes Lois Wilkins, Director Breedlove Entrepreneurship Center at the YWCA Metropolitan Chicago, IL. With over 30- years of experience supporting C-suite leaders across diverse industries, Lois offers invaluable insights into the evolution and significance of the administrative professionals role. Beth and Lois explore the pivotal role of administrative professionals in the modern workplace, in this spicy conversation with a seasoned expert. To listen to past episodes, please visit: https://www.realtalkmi.com/

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2306985/15107792

On Episode #9 of Professionally Speaking, Beth welcomes Lois Wilkins, Director Breedlove Entrepreneurship Center at the YWCA Metropolitan Chicago, IL.  With  over 30- years of experience supporting C-suite leaders across diverse industri...

09/05/2024

On Episode #11 of Season Four of Real Talk with Tedi, Tedi welcomes special guests Lindsey Coffelt, the Owner of Graze Craze located in Okemos & Shelby Township, MI. Lindsey shares with us how she and her husband, Silas, got into the Graze Craze, opening two stores in Michigan. She shares with us their passion for providing amazing works of art through the Charcuterie Boards (a.k.a. Grazing Boards) and the many other items they offer at their two stores. Tedi provides a brief history of Charcuterie and Lindsey shares with us how Graze Craze only uses top quality items and farm fresh produce whenever possible or in season. Lindsey and Tedi talk about how the Grazing Boards are actually cost effective, not cost prohibitive. After listening to this episode, you will be craving some Graze Craze. Listen to past episodes at: www.realtalkmi.com

https://www.buzzsprout.com/1726062/15039305

On Episode #11 of Season Four of Real Talk with Tedi, Tedi welcomes special guests Lindsey Coffelt, the Owner of Graze Craze located in Okemos & Shelby Township, MI.  Lindsey shares with us how she and her husband, Silas, got into the Gra...

01/05/2024

On Episode #10 of Season Four of Real Talk with Tedi, Tedi welcomes special guest Jenny Wagemann, Farmers Market & Breadbasket Food Pantry Manager at the Allen Farmers Market, located in Lansing, MI. Jenny shares with us all the amazing things happening at the Allen Farmers Market, including information about their popular Veggie Boxes and the Breadbasket Food Pantry. Tedi provides a brief history of the Allen Farmers Market and Jenny tells us all about the upcoming summer season at the Allens Farmers Market. We also learn about Jenny's love o hula-hooping and yoga. This is a fascinating and educational conversation, one you do not want to miss. To listen to past episodes, please visit: www.realtalkmi.com.

https://www.buzzsprout.com/1726062/14990006

On Episode #10 of Season Four of Real Talk with Tedi, Tedi welcomes special guest Jenny Wagemann, Farmers Market & Breadbasket Food Pantry Manager at the Allen Farmers Market, located in Lansing, MI.  Jenny shares with us all the amazing ...

23/04/2024

On Episode #9 of Season Four of Real Talk with Tedi, Tedi welcomes special guests Shelley Davis-Boyd, Integrare Collaborative, and Amy Mollitor, Intentional Energy Coaching. Amy and Shelley tell us all about their amazing Podcast Wild Wisdom Her, why they started this and why it's important to them both. Tedi asks Amy what 'Tapping' is and Shelley shares with her strong passion for helping others succeed. Amy and Shelley, who are both Certified Life Coaches (CLC), share with us how they use their life-skills and past experiences to empower women to success. This is a fascinating conversation, one you definitely do not want to miss, especially all the flubs, flaws and mistakes Tedi makes throughout the podcast. To listen to past episodes, please visit www.realtalkmi.com.

https://www.buzzsprout.com/1726062/14941734

On Episode #9 of Season Four of Real Talk with Tedi, Tedi welcomes special guests Shelley Davis-Boyd, Integrare Collaborative, and Amy Mollitor, Intentional Energy Coaching.   Amy and Shelley tell us all about their amazing Podcast Wild Wisdo...

16/04/2024

On Episode #8 of Professionally Speaking, Beth and Tedi are back together again and have a fascinating conversation about the 'Paper Ceiling' and why this may be a deterrent for so many professionals seeking positions that require a degree. Beth shares with us her dislike of 'Pedigree & Paper Hiring' and Tedi provides some Certified Career Coaching tips for those looking for a new career. This is a great conversation for those who are struggling with their job search and trying to decipher all the nuances of all the job description requirements. Included below are several articles that are discussed during this episode. To listen to past episodes, please visit www.realtalkmi.com.

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2306985/14899167

On Episode #8 of Professionally Speaking, Beth and Tedi are back together again and have a fascinating conversation about the 'Paper Ceiling' and why this may be a deterrent for so many professionals seeking positions that require a degree.  ...

09/04/2024

On Episode #8 of Real Talk with Tedi, Tedi welcomes back special guest,Sarah Pierce, the Founder & Owner of 517 Living. Tedi and Sarah talk about 517 Living's 10-Year Anniversary and ways this will be celebrated. Sarah provides us with an update on all the changes at 517 Living and what to look for and expect in 2024. Sarah also shares with us the benefits of being part of the 517 Living membership directory. Tedi and Sarah talk about using the 517 Living events page to learn what's going on in Lansing and how others can get connected. To listen to past episodes, visit www.realtalkmi.com.

https://www.buzzsprout.com/1726062/14856160

On Episode #8 of Real Talk with Tedi, Tedi welcomes back special guest, Sarah Pierce, the Founder & Owner of 517 Living.  Tedi and Sarah talk about 517 Living's 10-Year Anniversary and ways this will be celebrated.  Sarah provides us...

02/04/2024

On Episode #7 of Professionally Speaking, Beth welcomes the insightful Heidi O'Connor, current Manager/Caretaker at Farrell Lodge, located in Sandusky, Ohio. Heidi shares with us how her professional journey began with teaching in the public school classroom. Beth and Heidi discuss how this path allowed her (Heidi) to dive deep into the essence of professionalism, at the crossroads of of education and hospitality. Beth and Heidi discuss the unseen respect gap and stereotypes affecting educators and hospitality workers along with sharing real-life examples that illuminate these disparities. This conversation is one that will challenge, inspire, and elevate the occupations of educators, those in the hospitality industry and any/all professionals. This is one conversation you do do not want to miss. To listen to past episodes, please visit: www.realtalkmi.com

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2306985/14814748

On Episode #7 of Professionally Speaking, Beth welcomes the insightful Heidi O'Connor, current Manager/Caretaker at Farrell Lodge, located in Sandusky,  Ohio.  Heidi shares with us how her professional journey began with teaching in the ...

20/03/2024

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20/03/2024

On Episode #7 of Real Talk with Tedi , Tedi welcomes back special guest Elaine Sterrett Isely, Deputy Director of the West Michigan Environmental Action Council (WMEAC), located in Grand Rapids, MI. Tedi and Elaine talk about Earth Day (April 22, 2024) and how we can become better stewards when it comes to caring for our planet. Elaine provides with great information on what Climate Change is and how we can be part of the solution, and not part of the problem. Another exciting and educational episode with Elaine, one you do not want to miss. To listen to past episodes, please visit: www.realtalkmi.com.

https://www.buzzsprout.com/1726062/14729531

On this episode of Real Talk with Tedi , Tedi welcomes back special guest Elaine Sterrett Isely, Deputy Director of the West Michigan Environmental Action Council (WMEAC), located in Grand Rapids, MI.  Tedi and Elaine talk about Earth Day (Ap...

14/03/2024

On Episode #6 of Professionally Speaking, Beth Batts welcomes special guest Lynne Spikes, Commercial Construction Superintendent at Balfour Beatty , located in Dallas, TX. Beth and Lynne delve into the core of professionalism and respect in the construction field. Lynne shares with us her dedication and rigor required in the trade, highlighting the importance of building a team through engagement and ownership as well as job site etiquette and its impact on client satisfaction. This fascinating conversation provides a focused look at leading with respect in a complex and sometimes challenging industry. To listen to past episodes, please visit: www.realtalkmi.com

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2306985/14690143

On Episode #6 of Professionally Speaking, Beth welcomes special guest Lynne Spikes, Commercial Construction Superintendent at Balfour Beatty , located in Dallas, TX.  Beth and Lynne delve into the core of professionalism and respect in the co...

07/03/2024

On Episode #6 of of Real Talk with Tedi, Tedi welcomes special guest Derek Davis, a Cali Sober Bartender and Postpartum Doula, located in Southeast Michigan. Derek shares with us his journey as a Trans man and why his role as Mr. Trans Michigan 2024 is so important to him and the communities he serves. We learn what a Postpartum Doula is and what they do and that I am considered 'straight edged'. Tedi and Derek talk about their love of Sasha Colby and why so many conservatives are threatened by those in the Trans community. This is a 'nothing is off the table', no-holds barred conversation, one you definitely do not want to miss. You can catchup on past episodes at: www.realtalkmi.com.

https://www.buzzsprout.com/1726062/14645391

On Episode #6 of of Real Talk with Tedi, Tedi welcomes special guest Derek Davis, a Cali Sober Bartender and Postpartum Doula, located in Southeast Michigan.  Derek shares with us his journey as a Trans man and why his role as Mr. Trans Michi...

01/03/2024

On Episode #5 of Professionally Speaking, Beth Batts welcomes special guest Nathan Baar, Founder & CEO of HealthBar, located in Grand Rapids, MI. Beth learns that Nathan is a strong champion for nurses' professional respect and autonomy. Nathan shares with us how he brings visibility to the critical role of nurses as highly trained healthcare experts and why their presence is so important in today's ever-changing healthcare. He shares insightful perspectives on the profound impact nurses make beyond traditional settings, advocating for their autonomous practice. Tune in to hear how Nathan's approach fosters a new level of recognition for the indispensable contributions nurses make in the healthcare industry. To listen to past episodes: www.realtalkmi.com.

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2306985/14608220

On Episode #5 of Professionally Speaking, Beth welcomes special guest Nathan Baar, Founder & CEO of HealthBar, located in Grand Rapids, MI.  Beth learns that Nathan is a strong champion for nurses' professional respect and autonomy. ...

01/03/2024

On Episode #5 of of Real Talk with Tedi, Tedi welcomes special guest Nikki Thompson Frazier, Founder & Owner of Sweet Encounter Bakery & Cafe, which is located in the historic Knapp's Building in downtown Lansing, MI. Tedi and Nikki talk about how the bakery and cafe got started and why it has a strong focus on those with food allergies. Nikki shares with us the amazing treats and more you can get at Sweet Encounter Bakery & Cafe and how they are connected with Hollywood. Nikki provides us with some great advice and resources on how you too can be a small business owner. To listen to past episodes: www.realtalkmi.com.

https://www.buzzsprout.com/1726062/14607718

On Episode #5 of of Real Talk with Tedi, Tedi welcomes special guest Nikki Thompson Frazier, Founder & Owner of Sweet Encounter Bakery & Cafe, which is located in the historic Knapp's Building in downtown Lansing, MI.  Tedi and Nikki ...

27/02/2024

On Episode #5 of Season 4, Tedi has a fascinating conversation with Nikki Thompson Frazier Founder & Owner Sweet Encounter Bakery & Cafe. You do not want to miss this one! This episode is coming the first week of March 2024. To listen to past episodes, please visit www.realtalkmi.com.

23/02/2024

On this episode of Real Talk with Tedi, Tedi welcomes special guest Trevis Gleason, Chef, Published Author & Disability Advocate, located in West Kerry, Ireland. Trevis shares with us his amazing journey around the world and how this provided some incredible lessons for living well. We learn about Trevis's new book Living well with Multiple Sclerosis and where the inspiration for writing this came from. Trevis provides us with some information information on what Multiple Sclerosis is and what it's like to live with MS. We also learn how we can be strong allies and advocates for those living with MS. This is one conversation you do not want to miss. To listen to past episodes, please visit www.realtalkmi.com

https://www.buzzsprout.com/1726062/14561953

On this episode of Real Talk with Tedi, Tedi welcomes special guest  Trevis Gleason, Chef, Published Author & Disability Advocate, located in West Kerry, Ireland.  Trevis shares with us his amazing journey around the world and how th...

20/02/2024

On Episode #4 of Professionally Speaking, Beth Batts welcomes Sarah Rose, the Founder & Owner of Fresh Rise Group located in Grand Rapids, MI. In an era where overworking is often seen as a badge of honor, Beth and Sarah unravel the concept of work-life harmony over balance. Sarah provides us with information on how to recognize the early-signs of burnout within ourselves and our teams, and boldly challenge the glorification of the "Go, Go, Go" mentality. Sarah teaches us how to lead with a wellness-first approach, transforming pressure into productivity without compromise. You can listen to past episodes at: https://www.realtalkmi.com/

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2306985/14538430

On this episode of Professionally Speaking, Beth welcomes Sarah Rose, the Founder & Owner of Rise Group & Coaching located in Grand Rapids, MI.  In an era where overworking is often seen as a badge of honor,  Beth and Sara unrave...

12/02/2024

On this episode of Professionally Speaking, Tedi welcomes special guests Karen Bathanti and Shannon Hensel from OakMAC SHRM, located in Southeast Michigan. Karen provides us with the history of OakMAC SHRM and how the organization started and the phenomenal growth of the their membership. Karen and Shannon provide us with some great information on what Human Resource professionals can expect in 2024. Karen shares information with us about the upcoming OakMAC SHRM Annual HR Summit, taking place on Thursday, April 25, 2024 and Shannon tells us all about a great new program for those who want to receive their SHRM HR designation. To listen to past episodes, please visit: www.realtalkmi.com.

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2306985/14486153

On this episode of Professionally Speaking, Tedi welcomes special guests Karen Bathanti and Shannon Hensel from OakMAC SHRM, located in Southeast Michigan.  Karen provides us with the history of OakMAC SHRM and how the organization started an...

06/02/2024

On Episode 3 of Season Four of Real Talk with Tedi, Tedi welcomes back special guest Shelley Davis Boyd, President of Integrare Collaborative, which is located in Lansing, MI. Tedi and Shelley talk about all things Certified Life Coaching, what this is and how it can help us to grow both personally and professionally. Shelley shares with us her style of coaching and why she enjoys helping others to achieve their life goals. Tedi and Shelley discuss the importance of having integrity, being honest and presenting as your true authentic self. You do not want to miss this fascinating conversation. To listen to past episodes, please visit: www.realtalkmi.com.

https://www.buzzsprout.com/1726062/14450082

On Episode 3 of Season Four of Real Talk with Tedi, Tedi welcomes back special guest  Shelley Davis-Boyd, President of Integrare Collaborative, which is located in Lansing, MI.  Tedi and Shelley talk about all things Certified Life Coach...

02/02/2024

On Episode #2 of Professionally Speaking, Tedi welcomes Amy Bragagnini a Clinical Oncology Dietitian at Trinity Health Lacks Cancer Center, located in Grand Rapids, MI. Tedi and Amy talk about getting through the work day by making healthy choices when it comes to our food intake. Amy shares with us some great tips on how to start the day with a balanced, energy-packed breakfast, having a healthy (sensible) lunch and what snacks are good for us to have while at work. Tedi and Amy discuss everything from the 'fist' method of food proportioning to walking clubs at work. To listen to past episodes, please visit:
https://www.realtalkmi.com

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2306985/14428007

On this episode of Professionally Speaking, Tedi welcomes  Amy Bragagnini a Clinical Oncology Dietitian at Trinity Health Lacks Cancer Center, located in Grand Rapids, MI.   Tedi and Amy talk about getting through the work day by making ...

25/01/2024

On the inaugural episode of the Professional Speaking podcast, we meet our two co-hosts, Beth Batts, BB Consulting LLC and Tedi R Parsons, 2b Inclusive LLC. Beth and Tedi discuss what the Professionally Speaking podcast is all about and share their thoughts on what it means to be professional. Discussion takes place on future episodes and what is Beth and Tedi's go to piece of professional advice. To learn more, please visit: www.realtalkmi.com

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2306985/14376266

On the inaugural episode of the Professional Speaking podcast, we meet our two co-hosts, Beth Batts, BB Consulting LLC and Tedi Parsons, 2b Inclusive LLC.   Beth and Tedi discuss what the Professionally Speaking podcast is all about and share...

14/01/2024

On Episode Two of Season Four of Real Talk with Tedi, Tedi welcomes back special guest Jamie Ashby, the current reigning Miss Trans Michigan USA, of Lansing, MI. Jamie is back to share with us her journey to the Mr. & Miss Trans USA pageant that took place in November 2023 in Milwaukee, WI. Jamie and Tedi talk about how she (Jamie) discovered her true self and what it took to get where she is today. Tedi shares some alarming statistics and Jamie tells us how we can all be better Allies. To listen to past podcasts, please visit: www.realtalkmi.com

https://www.buzzsprout.com/1726062/14306234

On Episode Two of Season Four of Real Talk with Tedi, Tedi welcomes back special guest Jamie Ashby, the current reigning Miss Trans Michigan USA, of Lansing, MI.    Jamie is back to share with us her journey to the Mr. & Miss Trans U...

10/01/2024

The Real Talk Network is excited to announce a new podcast in our line-up: Professionally Speaking is coming soon. Please join Co-Hosts Beth Batts & Tedi R Parsons for some great conversation on the What, Why & How of what it means to be professional!

02/01/2024

On Episode One of Season Four of Real Talk with Tedi, Tedi welcomes K Lynn Smith, an award-winning artist and writer from Michigan. K Lynn is best known as the writer and artist of the western comic PLUME. Tedi and K Lynn talk about all things comics. Tedi provides a brief history of comics in the U.S. and K Lyn shares with us her journey from aspirations of being an animator to creating, writing and selling her own comic books. K Lynn explains what ComicCons are and why we should attend. Comics may not be what you remember as a kid so join us for this fascinating conversation. To listen to past episodes: www.realtalkmi.com

https://www.buzzsprout.com/1726062/14229713

On Episode One of Season Four of Real Talk with Tedi, Tedi welcomes  K Lynn Smith, an award-winning artist and writer from Michigan.  K Lynn is best known as the writer and artist of the western comic PLUME.   Tedi and K Lynn talk a...

26/12/2023

To all of our listeners in the Commonwealth Nations The Real Talk Network wishes you a very safe and Happy Boxing Day (a.k.a. Offering Day)!