In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of Bizzimumzi, host Ashley Verma sits down with her lifelong friend, Sarrah Strimel Bentley, for a raw and candid conversation that covers a remarkable journey from battling breast cancer to embarking on a surrogacy adventure. Ashley and Sarrah share a laughter-filled chat as they reminisce about their shared experiences on Broadway, discussing the unique challenges and rewards of their careers that have shaped them into the strong individuals they are today. They delve into the extraordinary resilience that was instilled in them from a young age, setting the stage for the incredible journey Sarrah was about to face. The conversation takes a poignant turn as Sarrah opens up about her battle with breast cancer and her pursuit of finding the perfect partner who would stand by her side through thick and thin. Sarrah's journey of strength and determination is nothing short of remarkable, as she tackled the challenges of cancer with a courage that defied any handbook or guide. With unwavering support from her husband, Sarrah and her partner faced critical decisions amidst the whirlwind of medical treatments. Sarrah reveals the urgency they felt to explore the IVF route prior to undergoing chemotherapy, a decision with minimal time for contemplation. Navigating the complex process of finding a surrogate added another layer of complexity to their journey, a challenge that tested their patience and resilience. Through their conversation, Sarrah touches on the emotional and logistical hurdles they encountered, shedding light on the intricacies of battling adversity while seeking to expand their family. The story of Sarrah's journey from cancer to surrogacy is a testament to the power of love, determination, and the unbreakable bond between friends who share both joyous memories and life-altering trials. Tune in to this captivating episode of Bizzimumzi as Ashley Verma and Sarrah Strimel Bentley share laughter, tears, and profound insights into a journey that transcends challenges, celebrates love, and exemplifies the true spirit of resilience. Whether you've faced adversity, are navigating the complexities of building a family, or simply seek inspiration, this episode offers a moving tale that will resonate deeply with listeners from all walks of life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to another engaging episode of the Bizzimumzi podcast, hosted by Ashley Verma. In this week's conversation, Ashley is joined by the remarkable Veena Crownholm, making for a captivating episode that's not to be missed. Veena Crownholm, a dynamic force in the world of non-profit work, takes center stage in this episode. Veena's journey is marked by her title as Miss California 2004 and her impressive achievement as 4th-Runner Up to Miss America. Since then, she has channeled her passion into the non-profit sector, excelling in special event fundraising and program development. A seasoned motivational speaker, Veena has traversed the country to address a range of topics including multi-cultural issues, women's empowerment, and wellness for both women and children. Her voice extends beyond the stage as she contributes regularly to prominent lifestyle media outlets such as KTLA, Kcal9/CBS, and NBC CA Live. With appearances on platforms like Inside Edition, The Insider, Today’s Parenting Team, HLN, Raising America, and Huffington Post Live, Veena's insights have reached wide audiences. Her impactful presence doesn't stop there. Veena has found a unique niche as a brand ambassador for Cella, QVC's line of kitchen and home organisation solutions. Her influence stretches even further, collaborating with numerous national brands for satellite media tours. Whether representing Cracker Barrel, Netflix Family, or Kentucky Fried Chicken, Veena's versatility shines through. The chapter of motherhood has significantly shaped Veena's journey, having welcomed her son in late 2010. In this episode, Veena and Ashley delve into her family's experiences, including a moment that led to a crucial decision: homeschooling. Veena opens up about this challenging period, shedding light on how homeschooling ultimately became the best choice for her family's unique needs. Veena's world revolves around her family and their happiness. She embraces what brings her fulfillment and pride, a sentiment that has guided her transformation from aspiring Hollywood reporter to a prominent figure collaborating with QVC and other industry giants. Her journey is marked by gratitude and personal growth, a journey she continues to explore with boundless creativity. Join Ashley and Veena as they explore the fascinating intersection of school, safety, and personal growth. Veena's candid insights offer a glimpse into her world, underscored by the importance of family, happiness, and the pursuit of one's passions. Whether it's homeschooling or building her personal brand, Veena Crownholm's story is a testament to the transformative power of embracing unexpected opportunities. Tune in for an episode that's both enlightening and inspiring. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to another exciting episode of the Bizzimumzi podcast with your host, Ashley Verma. This week, we're thrilled to have the incredible Alisha Fernandez Miranda as our special guest, making it a Happy Wednesday indeed! Alisha's journey is bound to inspire and uplift you. Alisha Fernandez Miranda, the esteemed author of "My What If Year," joins Ashley on this episode to delve into a captivating conversation. Released in February 2023, "My What If Year" chronicles Alisha's transformative journey through a year of unpaid internships in the very dream jobs that had captured her imagination as a child. The book invites us into Alisha's exploration of alternate paths and the profound discoveries that arose from them. Alisha's narrative prowess isn't confined to the pages of her book—she has graced the screens of top media platforms, including appearances on Good Morning America, CNN, MSNBC, and NPR, as well as local news stations across the US. "My What If Year" garnered well-deserved recognition, being featured in prestigious publications like Marie Claire and earning the distinction of a Best New Book by both People Magazine and the Boston Globe. But that's not all—Alisha is a versatile talent. She is also a co-author of "50 Years: Kinloch Lodge," a delightful culinary tribute to one of the Isle of Skye’s most exceptional hotels. Alisha's multifaceted creativity extends to the podcast realm, where she hosts "Extra Shot with Alisha Fernandez Miranda" and the award-winning "Quit Your Day Job." Hailing from a Cuban-American background in Miami and having spent her adult life in the vibrant cities of New York and London, Alisha currently finds herself rooted in the picturesque landscapes of Scotland. During this captivating episode of Bizzimumzi, Ashley and Alisha immerse themselves in a discussion about their shared love for travel and how it rejuvenates their souls. Alisha opens up about her courageous decision to pivot her career path after the birth of her twins, shedding light on where she derives the unshakable confidence to pursue her aspirations. She reflects on the unwavering support she receives from her family, which has enabled her to chase her dreams with fervor. In an endearing moment, Alisha reveals how her children embraced her book tour, eagerly awaiting the next launch to show their unwavering support. They're even ready to miss school for the chance to be a part of their mom's tour, exemplifying the heartwarming bond they share. Tune in to this engaging episode as Ashley and Alisha share laughter, insights, and stories that remind us of the power of following our passions and leaning into the support that fuels our ambitions. Don't miss out on this uplifting and inspiring conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Get ready for a showbiz chat that's as delightful as a Broadway musical and as smooth as a fine wine! This week, your bubbly host Ashley Verma sits down with none other than the dynamic duo, Kristin Piro and David Gordon, a Broadway husband and wife team who have taken their passion from the stage to the vineyards with their incredible wine brand, Intermission. Kristin, the quintessential Jersey girl turned Broadway star, shares her journey from the Garden State to the dazzling lights of New York City. With a lifelong love for the stage, she's rocked it in 4 Broadway shows, 4 National Tours, and a plethora of regional performances. And just like her dance moves, she's found a way to express herself through her favourite art form – wine! Kristin's deep appreciation for the artistry in a glass of wine resonates with her creative spirit, and she spills all the juicy details on this week's episode. David, a true California native, brings his West Coast charm and theatre talent to the Big Apple. With an impressive resume that spans 38 states and 36 countries, he's graced iconic stages around the world. But his proudest moments aren't just stage credits – their cherished memories of friendships forged, laughs shared, and a backstage meeting that changed his life forever. On this episode, Ashley dives deep into the dazzling world of Broadway and wine with Kristin and David. They spill the beans on how they balance the hustle of the Broadway industry with the joys and challenges of parenthood. Sharing the ups and downs of maintaining a healthy outlook in the fast-paced world of showbiz, while nurturing their growing brand, Intermission, these two are a powerhouse of inspiration. Ever wondered how a love for theatre seamlessly translated into a love for fine wines? Kristin and David dish out the story behind their passion-driven journey that led them to dive headfirst into the wine business. From curtain calls to cork pops, they've discovered that the complexities of wine mirror the nuances of their beloved stage performances. Kristin opens up about the juggling act of raising their little one while keeping her Broadway dreams alive. With a schedule that dances to the rhythm of milestones and stage cues, she's ready to rock her next Broadway project this fall, supported by their unbeatable team and a game plan that's as solid as a Shakespearean script. So, whether you're a theatre aficionado, a wine connoisseur, or just someone looking for an inspiring tale of passion and partnership, this episode of Bizzimumzi is a must-listen! Tune in as Ashley, Kristin, and David create a symphony of stories that'll leave you craving both a front-row seat at a Broadway show and a glass of the finest Intermission wine. Please follow their Intermission journey here: https://www.intermissioncellars.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Ashley in a riveting episode of the Bizzimumzi podcast as she enthusiastically welcomes the remarkable Chrissy Powers to the conversation. Hailing from the vibrant city of San Diego, California, Chrissy is a true powerhouse, boasting an impressive array of roles - a trauma-informed therapist, embodiment coach, business therapist, devoted mother, part-time blogger, influential podcast host, and captivating speaker. Drawing from her expertise, Chrissy passionately guides individuals towards embracing their fullest potential by unfreezing the patterns of trauma, fear, and shame that often hold them back. In this engaging episode of Bizzimumzi, the two dynamic women engage in a candid discussion about the transition from summer's embrace to the excitement of kids returning to school. Listen in as Chrissy candidly shares her personal journey towards becoming a skilled therapist, shedding light on the transformative impact her education had on her life's trajectory. Delight in her laughter as she reflects on her role as an "OG" Mommy Blogger, a journey that commenced back in 2012. An enchanting moment of full circle occurs when Chrissy recounts how her agent, who once removed her from the Mommy Blog roster, recently reconnected to acknowledge the incredible platform she has now cultivated - a platform that speaks volumes about her influence. Tune in and be captivated as Chrissy unveils her plans to host two upcoming retreats, promising transformative experiences. For further details, simply follow the provided link. This episode is an inspiring exploration of personal growth, transformation, and the power of creating impactful platforms. Chrissy Powers Retreat Details: https://chrissypowers.com/retreats/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices