In this episode of An Appetizing Life, I sit down with sisters and co-founders of 729 Beauty, Rhonda Smith, and Michelle Smith, to explore the true art of resilience in life and business. Rhonda and Michelle’s journey is filled with passion and purpose, as they’ve built a brand centered on healthier haircare options for women of color while balancing the demands of caregiving for their mother. Their story reveals what it takes to stay true to a vision, even when life calls for a pause.

We discuss practical strategies for resilience, staying connected to goals, and seeing setbacks as valuable redirections. This episode provides insights to help you find strength in life’s detours.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction and Personal Journey

04:08 Challenges and Resilience

11:19 Family Dynamics and Partnership

19:37 Balancing Business and Caregiving

23:37 The Importance of Self-Care

24:13 Challenges and Realities of Caregiving

29:49 Support Systems and Resources

38:45 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude

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In this episode of An Appetizing Life, host Lisa Marie Todd sits down with her long-time friend and multi-talented performer, Connie Jackson. With a career spanning Broadway, television, and music, Connie shares her inspiring journey, the lessons learned from navigating the entertainment industry, and the value of staying true to oneself. This episode is perfect for anyone looking to start a second act and pursue their passions.

About Connie:

Connie Jackson is an actress, singer, and producer whose career highlights include starring in Dreamgirls on Broadway and recurring roles on NCIS. Known for her powerful voice and vibrant performances, Connie has also worked with legendary artists, including Phil Collins. Beyond her artistic endeavors, she is passionate about volunteer work, including animal rescue and supporting the unhoused community.

Connect with Connie Jackson:

• Instagram: @theConnieJackson
• Website: conniejackson.com
• IMDb: imdb.me/ConnieJackson

Timestamps:

• [00:00:00] Introduction and welcome
• [00:01:17] Early years and passion for performing
• [00:04:01] Broadway debut and Dreamgirls experience
• [00:13:15] Shifting career focus and navigating industry changes
• [00:20:24] Embracing personal projects and authenticity
• [00:23:10] Volunteering and community engagement
• [00:30:52] Advice for women considering a second act

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In this episode of 'An Appetizing Life,' host Lisa Marie Todd engages in a heartfelt and insightful conversation with her longtime best friend, Mary Valena Broussard. They reflect on their 30-year friendship, highlighting Mary's transition from a successful actress to balancing motherhood, marriage, and entrepreneurship. Mary discusses embracing new technical skills, managing alumni networks, and the power of self-care. The episode explores themes of personal growth, the importance of a supportive community, and finding inner strength through challenging times.

Timestamps:

(00:00) - Welcome to the An Appetizing Life Podcast

(5:22) - Balancing Motherhood and Career

(09:06) - New Ventures and Learning

(13:11) - Advice for Women and Self-Care

(18:30) - Marriage and Partnership

(21:49) - Caring for Elderly Parents

(23:46) - The Importance of Community

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In this episode of An Appetizing Life, host Lisa Marie Todd welcomes you to a space designed to inspire and empower women over 50 as they shape their next chapter with confidence, creativity, and a renewed sense of possibility. Lisa introduces the podcast’s mission—to help you thrive after 50.

On this weekly podcast, you’ll hear stories from inspiring women who have launched new endeavors, embraced exciting adventures, and found renewed purpose in their second, third, and even fourth acts. Lisa will also sit down with experts to dive into the most pressing topics of this stage of life, offering practical tools, strategies, and insights to help you navigate challenges and embrace your best, most vibrant life. Get ready to explore, learn, and laugh as we explore how life after 50 can be the most exciting and fulfilling chapter yet!