Have you ever felt the pull to follow a passion, only to hear that little voice whisper, “I’m too old” or “What if I can’t do it?”

You’re not alone, and this week’s episode is here to remind you that it’s never too late to rewrite your story. I had the absolute joy of sitting down with Francesca Johnson, founder of Makeup by Francesca, whose journey is a testament to grit, grace, and unapologetic confidence.

From her days as a corporate makeup artist in New York City to becoming a thriving solopreneur in the Midwest, Fran’s story is as inspiring as it is relatable. We dive into what it really means to embrace confidence at any age and how Fran has built a career that empowers women to feel beautiful and strong—inside and out. We also talk about the power of authenticity, overcoming imposter syndrome, and why it’s never too late to chase your dreams.

Join us to hear about:

• How Fran transitioned from working with big-name brands to launching her own business.
• Why authenticity is the secret to building a fulfilling career and life.
• Fran’s personal tools for silencing imposter syndrome and showing up boldly.
• The transformative power of makeup and its role in building confidence at any age.
• Practical advice for chasing passions and thriving in non-traditional career paths.

This episode is like a hug and a pep talk rolled into one. Trust me, you’ll walk away feeling empowered and ready to take on the world!

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Female Founders Collective

Midlife on Purpose: Workbook

CONNECT WITH KATY RIPP:

Submit a letter HERE for a Dear Katy episode

Website: www.katyripp.com

Instagram: @katyripp

Pinterest: @katyripp

Facebook: @katy.ripp

CONNECT WITH FRANCESCA JOHNSON:

Website

Instagram: @makeupbyfrancesca68

Facebook: @makeupbyfrancescaj

Does winter ever feel like it's got you in a grip of gray skies, cold mornings, and an endless case of the blahs?

I feel you, and trust me—you’re not alone. In this episode, I get real about my experiences with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and how the winter months can take a toll on our mood and energy. But don’t worry—I’m not just here to talk about the problem. I’m sharing my favorite tips, tricks, and stories to help us all find light (literally and figuratively!) during the colder months.

• What Seasonal Affective Disorder is and how it might show up in your life.
• My personal experiences with SAD and how it impacts my winter routine.
• Why light therapy can be a game-changer and how to use it effectively.
• Simple ways to stay active and keep moving, even when it’s freezing outside.
• How to create a cozy home environment to lift your spirits.
• The power of self-care, staying warm, and leaning into social connections.
• Practical tips for maintaining a positive mindset during the darker months.

So, grab your coziest blanket, a hot cup of something delicious, and tune in. Let’s beat those winter blues together!

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Female Founders Collective

Midlife on Purpose: Workbook

CONNECT WITH KATY RIPP:

Submit a letter HERE for a Dear Katy episode

Website: www.katyripp.com

Instagram: @katyripp

Pinterest: @katyripp

Facebook: @katy.ripp

Have you ever felt trapped in a situation that seemed impossible to escape?

In this episode, I sit down with the brave and resilient Christie Deiter as she shares her journey through financial and emotional abuse—and how she found her way to freedom. Christie opens up about a pivotal moment on January 31, 2023, when an emotional breakdown with her ex finally pushed her to seek help and regain control of her life.

Our conversation dives deep into the hidden and often misunderstood world of financial abuse. Christie and I talk candidly about the real impact of abuse on family dynamics, how to recognize the red flags, and why reaching out for support is so important. Christie’s story is a powerful reminder that no matter how hard things get, it’s possible to reclaim your life, find strength in yourself, and start over.

Here’s what we dive into in this episode:

• How to identify and understand financial abuse, and why it often goes unnoticed.
• How a single night on January 31, 2023, changed her life forever.
• Practical steps for seeking support and building financial independence.
• How Christie found resilience and strength through self-care, wellness, and the power of authenticity.
• Why building your own path and finding your voice matters—no matter what you’ve been through.

Join us for this inspiring episode, where Christie’s journey reminds us all that even the darkest chapters can lead to brighter, bolder futures.

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

DAIS (Domestic Abuse Intervention Services)

Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)

Young Star

Midlife on Purpose: Workbook

CONNECT WITH KATY RIPP:

Submit a letter HERE for a Dear Katy episode

Website: www.katyripp.com

Instagram: @katyripp

Pinterest: @katyripp

Facebook: @katy.ripp

CONNECT WITH CHRISTIE DEITER:

Instagram: @christiedeiter