Best The Kindling Project Podcasts (2025)

1
Helping Tackle Your Kid's Mental Health with Lisa McIntyre 37:12

2d ago37:12

37:12

In this episode of the Kindling Project Podcast, Melissa Halpin sits down with Lisa McIntyre, a therapist, school board member, and advocate for youth mental health. They discuss Lisa's journey from her upbringing in Indiana to her current role in Northville, Michigan, where she actively supports mental health initiatives in schools and the communi…

1
What's a "Cleanse" and Why is Everyone Doing Them? with Rachelle Beazley 57:26

10d ago57:26

57:26

In this episode of the Kindling Project podcast, Melissa Halpin welcomes Rachelle Beazley, a wellness experience creator and founder of Aloe and Alchemy. They discuss Rachelle's journey into the wellness space, the importance of creating memorable experiences, and the connection between breath, detoxification, and emotional health. Rachelle shares …

1
Lessons from a Silent Retreat with Antonie Ziegler 41:35

17d ago41:35

41:35

In this conversation, Melissa Halpin and Antonia discuss the transformative power of mindfulness, personal growth, and the importance of community support. Antonia shares her experiences from a 10-day silent retreat, emphasizing the connection between emotions and physical health, and the significance of being present. They explore the role of a li…

1
D’Artagnan Caliman and Juma Sei on how 1803 Fund is advancing long-term investments for a rooted, prosperous Black Portland 53:08

22d ago53:08

53:08

Join D’Artagnan Caliman, Vice President of Community Partnerships, and Juma Sei, Communications Manager, at 1803 Fund as they introduce the capital investment fund’s approach to advancing long-term prosperity for Portland, Oregon’s Black community. Throughout the episode, D’Artagnan and Juma share what Black Portland means to them and the importanc…

1
The First Step to Becoming a Business Woman...Dream BIG with Diamond Branner 34:29

24d ago34:29

34:29

In this episode of The Kindling Project podcast, host Melissa Halpin speaks with Diamond Branner, the founder and creative director of Bland Material. They discuss Diamond's journey from being a teacher to a fashion designer, the inspiration behind her brand, and the importance of confidence and comfort in fashion. Diamond shares her proudest momen…

1
The Art of Spiritual Connection with Elana Merzin 25:08

1M ago25:08

25:08

In this episode of the Kindling Project podcast, Melissa Halpin and Elana Merzin Weinstein discuss the importance of reclaiming creativity and spirituality, especially during challenging times. They explore personal transitions, the healing power of art, and the significance of building authentic communities. Elana shares her journey of reconnectin…

1
Breathe, Bodywork and Beyond! with Jessica York 43:41

1M ago43:41

43:41

In this episode of the Kindling Project podcast, host Melissa Halpin speaks with Jessica York, founder of Coterie Detroit and owner of Breathe Bodywork and Beautification. They discuss the importance of community building, wellness, and self-care, particularly for women. Jessica shares her journey in the wellness industry, the holistic treatments o…

1
From Hobbyist to Business Owner: Empowering Women Through Creative Content with Dele Nguyen 1:03:32

2M ago1:03:32

1:03:32

In this episode of The Kindling Project podcast, Melissa Halpin interviews Dele Nguyen, a creative entrepreneur specializing in content creation and digital marketing. They discuss Dele's journey from being a college dropout to establishing her own agency, Nguyen Creative. The conversation delves into the challenges of client management, the import…

1
Networking vs Community vs Technology with April Clarke 48:38

2M ago48:38

48:38

In this conversation, Melissa Halpin and April Clarke explore the significance of community in personal and professional life. They discuss the importance of supportive networks, the challenges of motherhood, and the need for intentionality in building communities that foster belonging. The dialogue also touches on the impact of technology on commu…

1
The Transformative Power of Travel: Taking Flight with Sanya Weston 43:01

2M ago43:01

43:01

In this engaging conversation, Melissa Halpin reconnects with Sanya Weston, founder of Young People Travel Global Edge, to discuss their journeys as entrepreneurs, the importance of mentorship, and the transformative power of travel. They explore the challenges and joys of entrepreneurship, the significance of community support, and the lessons lea…

1
Susan Taylor Batten and Lyle Matthew Kan on Moving Beyond Fear Together to Take Action for Racial Equity 59:22

2M ago59:22

59:22

One month into President Trump's second presidency, Susan Taylor Batten, the President and CEO of ABFE and Lyle Matthew Kan, interim President and CEO of AAPIP (Asian Americans / Pacific Islanders in Philanthropy), sit down with us to share stories and insights on how philanthropy is navigating the administration's efforts to dismantle diversity, e…

1
Building Community Through Creativity and Inclusivity with Amanda Sweet 57:29

2M ago57:29

57:29

In this engaging conversation, Amanda Sweet, the creative fairy godmother, shares her community-building journey through her platform ReVamp, a clothing swap and creative experience. Amanda Sweet, affectionately known as the Creative Fairy Godmother, is an immersive and experiential global speaker, community leader, event curator, and fashion junki…

1
Real Talk About Friendship PART 2: Boundaries and Building Better Connections 34:38

3M ago34:38

34:38

This conversation explores the emotional complexities of navigating friendships and breakups as adults. The participants share personal experiences and insights on how relationships evolve over time, the impact of social media, and the challenges of maintaining boundaries. They discuss the emotional weight of friendships, the difficulty of having t…

1
Real Talk About Friendship PART 1: Building Bonds and Breaking Up 30:27

3M ago30:27

30:27

This conversation explores the emotional complexities of navigating friendships and breakups as adults. The participants share personal experiences and insights on how relationships evolve over time, the impact of social media, and the challenges of maintaining boundaries. They discuss the emotional weight of friendships, the difficulty of having t…

1
OG Firestarters Amy & Melissa Check-in: Amy's PhD, Being "Extra" and Looking ahead to 2025 25:51

3M ago25:51

25:51

In this episode, Amy and Melissa kick off Season 4 of the Kindling Project podcast. They discuss what they've been up to, including the growth of the Kindling Project community, their events, and Amy's pursuit of her PhD. They also talk about the importance of perseverance, setting boundaries, and embracing the extra in life and share plans for the…

1
OG Firestarters Amy & Melissa Check-in: TKP's Values, Feminism, Mentoring & Connection 26:07

3M ago26:07

26:07

In this conversation, Amy and Melissa discuss the importance of creating a space for women to connect and support each other. They talk about the roots of their project, TKP, and the role of mentorship and giving back. They reflect on their own experiences and the value of surrounding themselves with other women who understand and validate their jo…

1
Kent McGuire and Zoe Stemm-Calderon on Building an Inclusive Public Education 1:05:22

5M ago1:05:22

1:05:22

Kent McGuire of the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation and Zoe Stemm-Calderon from the Raikes Foundation sit down with Katie Hong to discuss their work on advancing equitable and inclusive public education across the United States. In this episode they share their foundations’ collaborative efforts as well as their own personal and professional e…

1
Pearl Lujan and Abby Sarmac on Going Back to Our Roots with the Kindle Project's Indigenous Women's Flow Fund 45:05

6M ago45:05

45:05

Abby Sarmac hosts a conversation with Pearl Lujan from the Kindle Project’s Indigenous Women’s Flow Fund. Together, they discuss their work as intermediaries and donors together on this project, and share how slowing down helped build deep and transformative relationships with Indigenous communities.…

1
Eddy Zheng on Breath, Hope and Healing with New Breath Foundation 59:36

6M ago59:36

59:36

President and Founder of New Breath Foundation Eddy Zheng shares his personal story and experiences navigating incarceration and detention for 21 years, and how hope, healing and breath, led him to create a foundation focused on dismantling institutions of policing, incarceration and deportation. The foundation is unapologetically committed to buil…

1
Monica Simeon and Zeke Smith on Moving at the Speed of Community in Eastern Washington with Empire Health Foundation 56:24

7M ago56:24

56:24

Empire Health Foundation Vice Chair Monica Simeon and President Zeke Smith provide insight into what advancing equity looks like for a health conversion foundation serving politically and geographically diverse communities across seven countries and three tribes in Eastern Washington.By The Giving Practice at Philanthropy Northwest

1
Chris Nanni on Operationalizing Equity in Fragmented Communities with the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham 52:45

7M ago52:45

52:45

Listen in as President and CEO of the Community Foundation of Greater Birmingham Chris Nanni weaves together personal and organizational reflections on driving equity in the most fragmented community in the Southeast. Chris shares a wealth of knowledge and ideas – particularly for listeners looking to learn from peers who are working to build bridg…

1
Katie Hong, Robin Martin and Abby Sarmac on What's In Store for Season 2 17:11

7M ago17:11

17:11

We’re back for Season 2! Join our season’s hosts Katie Hong, Robin Martin and Abby Sarmac as they introduce themselves and share the ‘what’ and the ‘why’ behind Season 2: Equity on the Ground.By The Giving Practice at Philanthropy Northwest

1
Diann Wingert Talks: Unmasking Authenticity: Empowering Women to Trust Themselves and Embrace Their True Desires 58:00

1y ago58:00

58:00

In this episode, Mic chats with the fabulous Diann Wingert. Diann shares her personal journey of taking off the mask and being true to herself. She discusses her childhood trauma and the masks she wore to survive. Diann emphasizes encouraging women to trust themselves and embrace their desires and priorities. She also explores the balance between s…

1
Stacy Sloan Talks: Childhood Nutrition 47:45

1y ago47:45

47:45

Mel chats with Stacy Sloan, founder of Three Little Birds Granola. Stacy shares her journey from being a Chef to becoming the Founder and CEO of a clean food granola company. That means: No Soy, No Dairy, Gluten-free, Nut-free and School-safe. She discusses her passion for health and nutrition and her commitment to providing healthy food to needy c…

1
Brenda Naomi Rosenberg Talks: Peace 39:58

1y ago39:58

39:58

Mel chats with Brenda Naomi Rosenberg, a peacemaker and author, and discusses her work bringing communities together and moving from hate to hope to healing. She shares her experiences working with various groups, including Girl Scouts, police departments, and different religious affiliations. Brenda emphasizes the importance of listening and ackno…

1
Mel & Mic Talk: Sparks 38:05

1y ago38:05

38:05

Mel & Mic delve into their aspirations and their passion for igniting sparks within their community. They emphasize the importance of taking action and finding one's rhythm in pursuing goals, regardless of scale. Together, they discuss the creation of Spark events like Nora's art exhibit and Sonja's cooking class, which serve as platforms for showc…

1
Building a Welcoming Pickleball Community with Leslie White and Christy Howden from Wolverine Pickleball 44:03

1y ago44:03

44:03

Join us as we dive into the world of pickleball with Leslie White and Christy Howden, founders of Wolverine Pickleball. In this episode, Leslie and Christy share their journey of building a successful pickleball facility and creating a strong community around the sport. They discuss the popularity of pickleball, its inclusive and social nature, and…

1
Dr. Amanda Tracy Talks: How to Thrive in Perimenopause & Menopause 47:30

1y ago47:30

47:30

In this episode, Mic engages in a dynamic conversation with Dr. Amanda Tracy, delving into holistic health and focusing on the intricate phases of menopause and perimenopause. Dr. Tracy candidly shares her journey in the realm of women's hormonal health, unraveling the nuances between menopause and the often-overlooked yet crucial stage of perimeno…

1
Rachael Phillips Talks: Embracing Your Choice and Living in Flow 40:04

1+ y ago40:04

40:04

Sometimes we are forced into a life shift that changes how we view this life. Rachael Phillips re-evaluated her career and the hurry she fostered when she was faced with breast cancer. Mel and Mic discuss with Rachael her new focus on choosing love over fear and her work with women entrepreneurs to live in alignment with their desired feelings. Thi…

1
Stacey Kulongowski Talks: Leaving Your Big Career to Find Fulfilling Work 33:28

1+ y ago33:28

33:28

Stacey Kulongowski, former Google executive and founder of The BND Group, opens up about her pivot into coaching and finding true fulfillment. Learn how she found the grace to leave behind a successful career for personal growth and inspiring others. Stacey's energy is sure to inspire you to press on! This episode: • Explores imposter syndrome • Em…

1
Katie Hong, Lisa McGill, Abby Sarmac and Lalitha Vaidyanathan on Moving Forward Together: Themes and highlights from season 1 58:27

1+ y ago58:27

58:27

In our final episode, four TGP Senior Advisors – Katie Hong, Lisa McGill, Abby Sarmac and Lalitha Vaidyanathan – reflect on the stories we heard across Season 1, sharing perspectives and advice based on their work as consultants supporting a diversity of philanthropy boards and leaders along their racial equity journeys. Together they reflect on th…

1
Yolanda Williams Talks: Navigating Your Path Through Entrepreneurship and Grief 36:16

1+ y ago36:16

36:16

When starting your kindling project, doors open and close all the time. It's up to you to figure out which opportunities feel right to you. Yolanda Williams shares her experiences, in starting her own business, Creme Blends, and the challenges she faced as an entrepreneur. She talks about the importance of not waiting for the perfect moment to star…

1
SHEFIT founder Sara Moylan Talks: The Heart Behind the Rise of the Game-Changing Activewear 50:32

1+ y ago50:32

50:32

Pregnant Sara Moylan had a problem with her bust being cumbersome when she went to work out. She had to wear two ill-fitting sports bras that made her feel horrible. This was the spark for her company, SHEFIT, which creates performance gear and sports bras to deliver total control and confidence for women. SHEFIT has landed on the Inc. Fastest Grow…

1
Mel & Mic Reflect 49:51

1+ y ago49:51

49:51

Join Mic and Mel in a heartfelt conversation as they reflect on the past year and dive into the magic of the holiday season. They cover it all, from heartwarming holiday cards to the joy of giving gifts. They also share their incredible experiences with The Kindling Project, exploring the impact they've made and the valuable lessons they've learned…

1
Replay: Princess Castleberry Talks: Breaking Free from Unconscious Agreements 1:06:22

1+ y ago1:06:22

1:06:22

This is a replay of our conversation with Princess! Princess Castleberry is on a journey to break free from unconscious agreements. She helps her clients unleash the power of collective responsibility and tap into their inner strength to lead fulfilling lives. As a TEDx Keynote Speaker, Wellness + Risk Consultant, Coach, Author, and CEO of GO BEYON…

1
Replay: Amy Peterson Talks: The Power of Investing in People 41:21

1+ y ago41:21

41:21

This is a replay of our conversation with Amy Peterson. Meet Amy Peterson, a trailblazer driven by a deep passion that inspires. She keeps a box of rejection letters as a reminder of her determination to succeed and has created a company dedicated to empowering women. Rebel Nell is not just a business; it exists to provide equitable employment oppo…

1
Larry Kramer and Charmaine Mercer on paving the way for racial justice at the Hewlett Foundation 48:28

1+ y ago48:28

48:28

In 2020, the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation committed $150M to support racial justice alongside the development of an entirely new office – the Office of Culture, Race and Equity – to incorporate equity efforts across the foundation’s culture, operations, and grantmaking. In this episode, President Larry Kramer and Chief Equity Officer Charma…

1
Nanette Murphy Talks: Empowering Women Through Divorce 34:33

1+ y ago34:33

34:33

When a marriage is in trouble, a woman needs someone who has been through it and can offer solid advice as she navigates this unknown journey. In this episode, Nanette Murphy, a life transition coach for women going through a divorce, courageously shares her story of divorce and personal growth with Mel and Mic. Her candid reflection on the impact …

1
April Eckwielen Talks: Unleashing Personal Growth through Spirituality and Metaphysical Practices 46:16

1+ y ago46:16

46:16

Let's explore the enchanting realm of success through the art of manifestation, mystical practices, and ancestral connections. Despite the challenges of being a solo entrepreneur with a physical store, April Eckwielen shares her journey of achieving success in Florida with her metaphysical shop, "The Still Room." It's crucial to acknowledge and cel…

1
Kimberly Willis Talks: Building a Business By Helping Others Through the Challenges of Cancer 31:49

1+ y ago31:49

31:49

So many people take a cancer diagnosis as a death sentence. But our guest, Kimberly Willis took it as a doorway to step into a new career helping others through this difficult situation. Kimberly shares her journey of overcoming cancer and finding strength to pursue her passion in entrepreneurship and coaching. In this conversation with Mel and Mic…

1
Savita Monroe Talks: Corporate Marketing Career Change to Yoga Spa Entrepreneur 30:23

1+ y ago30:23

30:23

What do you do when you get laid off from your corporate job and can't find a good position to jump into? You reinvent yourself and go off-script. Savita found herself at a this crossroad and walked down a path she had not yet traveled. She took classes to get certified in 2 different careers and launched her own brick and mortar business in her 50…

1
Erin Wiley Talks: Inner Child Therapy, A Path to Helping Women Heal 38:04

1+ y ago38:04

38:04

Do you find the voices in your head telling you to keep quiet, to not stand out, to be normal? Erin Wiley discusses with Mic and Mel the reasons those voices began and persist and shouldn't be ignored. She discusses what Inner Child work is and why it can be helpful to healing. Erin also explores the potential of plant-based medicines and psychedel…

1
Emily A. Hay & Friends Talk: From Self-Doubt to Social Media Slayers 39:55

1+ y ago39:55

39:55

We all struggle with self-doubt… and even more so when you step out to start your own business. Mic chats with Emily and her mentees, Nicole Kucab, Amanda Lynch and Kimberly Hermann, about their journey as a stay-at-home moms turned successful businesswomen. They share struggles and lessons learned and the importance of finding balance in work and …

1
Mallory Brown Talks: Travel, Compassion, and Human Connection 29:53

1+ y ago29:53

29:53

Our guest Mallory gets to travel and talk with women all over the globe as apart of her YouTube series, Walk a Mile. Mallory shares about her project that showcases the stories of women in 26 different countries to inspire viewers to donate and support these women and their communities. Both Melissa and Mallory emphasize the importance of approachi…

1
Ber-Henda Williams Talks: The Connection Between Spirituality, Female Identity, and Business Success 42:20

1+ y ago42:20

42:20

Melissa welcomes guest Ber-Henda Williams, a life and business coach for soul-led feminine leaders and advocate for pursuing passion projects. They discuss their unique perspectives on the intersection of creativity and business, challenging the worship of money and capitalism. Ber-Henda's approach embraces a spiritual and feminine perspective, cha…

1
Estakio Beltran and Bill and Holly Marklyn on shifting wealth and power with The Share Fund 47:32

1+ y ago47:32

47:32

In this special episode, founding members of The Share Fund, Estakio Beltran, Bill Marklyn and Holly Marklyn take us beyond the bounds of traditional governance and philanthropy, and into a new world of giving that makes the redistribution of wealth and power a reality. The Share Fund is an LLC rather than a foundation and is managed through a part…

1
Judy Belk and Debra Nakatomi on leading with lived experience 49:42

1+ y ago49:42

49:42

Judy Belk (senior advisor and former president and CEO of The California Wellness Foundation, also known as “Cal Wellness”) and Debra Nakatomi (CEO of NakatomiPR, trustee and former board chair of The California Wellness Foundation) exchange powerful stories of their experiences with race from childhood to the present, reflecting on what’s possible…

1
Monika Kalra Varma and Julia Wilson on talking about the hard stuff out loud with love 54:07

1+ y ago54:07

54:07

Listen in as Monika Kalra Varma, the first BIPOC president & CEO of BoardSource, and Julia Wilson, BoardSource’s outgoing board chair, share powerful stories and reflections on their experiences tackling the complexities of race equity work head on as a united front at BoardSource. Together they give us a behind-the-scenes look at the intentional w…

1
Rachelle Vartanian Talks: Building a Special Needs Program Non-Profit 49:19

1+ y ago49:19

49:19

Sometimes life throws us curve balls that lead us to our next great thing. Mel and Mic are joined by their guest Rachelle, who shares her remarkable journey of building a thriving special needs program non-profit out of necessity. Frustrated by the lack of support, she took matters into her own hands. Rachelle's story is filled with determination, …

1
Kate Milligan Talks: 1Girl Revolution is Creating Space for Women's Stories 46:58

1+ y ago46:58

46:58

We all have a story to tell! We have Kate Milligan, the creator and host of 1 Girl Revolution podcast and a passionate advocate for women's empowerment joining us in this episode. Kate dives deep into how telling our life stories can be empowering and important for us as women. She shares her personal journey of overcoming bullies, fear and obstacl…

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The Kindling Project Podcasts

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