Shows
Obstacles to OpportunitiesBuilt to Rise: How Vicki Paquette Turned Setbacks Into StrengthIn this powerful episode of Obstacles to Opportunities, hosts Jess and Heather welcome Vicki Paquette—REALTOR®, entrepreneur, and former personal trainer—whose journey is nothing short of extraordinary. From building a fitness business in her early 20s to surviving cancer, navigating chronic illness, and pivoting fearlessly into real estate, Vicki opens up about the hardships that shaped her—and the mindset that helped her rise.She shares raw and real insights on grief, resilience, reinvention, and the drive to keep going when life throws its hardest punches. Whether you’re facing your own uphill battle or craving inspirati...2025-05-0834 minObstacles to OpportunitiesCarly Oxenreider: The Power of Starting Over and Thriving Through It AllIn this episode of the Obstacles to Opportunities podcast, host Jess Powell sits down with Carly Oxenreider, a serial entrepreneur, military spouse, mother, top real estate producer, coach, and mentor. Carly shares her incredible journey from growing up in eastern North Carolina to building a thriving career across multiple industries. She reflects on the challenges of being an active-duty military spouse, facing the financial turmoil of the Great Recession, and the personal growth that came from persevering through tough times.Carly opens up about the obstacles she encountered in her career—from starting over in new markets ev...2025-04-1632 minObstacles to OpportunitiesThe Heart of the Village: Inside the Mission of Foster Village SWFL with Kacie HassKacie Hass is a proud Southwest Florida native, having spent 35 years living and building deep roots in Cape Coral. She's married to her best friend, Tanner Hass, a Fort Myers firefighter/EMT, and together they’re raising three beautiful children. The family is actively involved in their faith community at Christian Life Fellowship Church.Kacie is the founder of Hearten Inc., a nonprofit that merged with Foster Village SWFL in June 2024. Her mission has always been clear: to celebrate the inherent worth of every child, regardless of their circumstances. With a heart for the vulnerable, she’s pass...2025-04-0933 minObstacles to OpportunitiesBeyond Awareness: Prioritizing Pediatric Cancer with Robyn SpoonJoin us as Robyn Spoon, a dynamic entrepreneur and founder of the nonprofit Elevate, shares her deeply personal journey that began when her son was unexpectedly diagnosed with rhabdomyosarcoma. This life-altering event propelled her into the world of pediatric cancer advocacy, unveiling the stark realities and urgent need for reform in research funding and treatment. Robin’s story is both a heartfelt reminder of the challenges families face and a call to action for improved awareness and resources in the fight against childhood cancer.Pediatric cancer remains the leading cause of death by disease in children, yet it...2024-11-0524 minObstacles to OpportunitiesTransforming Lives: Ronda Zillner on Personal and Professional GrowthAs a candid, supportive, and insightful coach, Ronda draws from her personal experiences with trauma and navigating challenging life transitions to guide others. She empowers them to courageously tap into their strengths, gain clarity on their goals, and take the steps needed to move forward.Ronda was the visionary founder and CEO of Zillner Marketing Communications in Kansas City, a trailblazer in the upscale senior living sector. During a time when it was uncommon, she fostered a culture where working parents, including herself, could balance hands-on parenting with thriving careers. After nearly 25 successful years, Ronda sold her...2024-10-2238 minObstacles to OpportunitiesGiant Killers: Overcoming Life's Giants with Angi JeffcoatIn this deeply moving episode, we sit down with Angi Jeffcoat, a former musician turned pastor with over 20 years of experience helping people heal from the pain of their past. Angi shares her powerful journey of overcoming childhood trauma, including growing up with a verbally abusive father and the emotional scars that lingered. With vulnerability, she opens up about how these experiences inspired her to write her transformative new book, Giant Killers.Together, we dive into the themes of faith, resilience, and emotional health, exploring the role of self-awareness, forgiveness, and divine guidance in healing...2024-10-1432 minObstacles to OpportunitiesThe RISE Team Story with Katrena Meyers, Brittany Androchuk, and Nikki HagmannSEASON 2 is up! Meet the powerhouse women of KW Elevate Luxury in Naples, FL. Katrena Meyers, Brittany Androchuk, and Nikki Hagmann, also known as the RISE Team. Last year, they closed $45 million in volume and continue to make waves in the SWFL real estate market. In this episode, we dive into their mindset hacks, their unique perspectives on failure, and how they're all committed to raising confident, hard-working children. Be inspired by their journey to build a massive real estate business while balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship. 2024-09-1032 minObstacles to OpportunitiesUnfiltered Conversations with Brittany Antonijevic: From Women's Business Consulting to Creating a Space for AuthenticityIn this episode of "Obstacles to Opportunities" we're thrilled to welcome the dynamic Brittany Antonijevic to the studio! Jess finally manages to get her in for a chat, and believe us, it's worth the wait. From women's business consulting to hosting the popular podcast "Wine About Business," Brittany is a force to be reckoned with.Join us as Brittany dishes on everything she's involved in, including her passion for creating spaces where women can truly be seen and heard. Known for her fearlessness in facing conflict and her knack for authenticity, Brittany brings a refreshing honesty to...2024-06-1836 minObstacles to OpportunitiesJennifer Johnson of True Fashionista: From Trials to Business TriumphsWelcome to Obstacles to Opportunites Podcast! Join us as we pull up a chair for a candid conversation with Naples' favorite female entrepreneur, podcaster, and business coach - the one and only Jennifer Johnson.In this episode, Jennifer shares her remarkable journey, from her initial dream of opening a resale shop to becoming a multifaceted entrepreneur deeply embedded in her community. She opens up about the challenges she faced, including pivotal moments where she could have thrown in the towel, but chose perseverance instead.Through her ventures like True Fashionistas, Florida’s largest lifestyle resale st...2024-06-1134 minObstacles to OpportunitiesChristine Harrison's Leap: Embracing the Dance of Life and ChangeChristine Harrison joins us to share her incredible story of leaving everything behind in Canada for the U.S. in order to advocate for her child's healthcare options. Beyond this recent life change - life has taken many turns as a serial entrepreneur and we talk about it all during this episode.Jess met Christine on the sidelines of our kids' soccer games and was quickly amazed by her journey from a national-level synchronized swimmer to a world champion hip-hop dancer! Jess knew, she HAD to get her on the podcast. Get ready for Christine t...2024-05-1434 minObstacles to OpportunitiesNurturing Young Girls' Ambitions Rachelle's Passionate MissionJoin Jess Powell on "Obstacles to Opportunities" as she sits down with author Rachelle Tiringo Halterman for a candid conversation about Rachelle's life journey. Born in a small Ethiopian village with limited opportunities for girls, Rachelle shares her heartfelt story of overcoming challenges and finding empowerment. From her own experiences, Rachelle has discovered the importance of empowering young girls worldwide. Tune in as Jess and Rachelle discuss adoption, empowerment, and Rachelle's mission to inspire confidence in girls everywhere. This episode promises to open your eyes to the transformative power of empowerment and the boundless potential of girls around the...2024-04-3022 minObstacles to OpportunitiesBehind the Trends: Ivy Zelman on Real Estate's Unseen ForcesEver wondered how to climb to the top in a field where the odds seem stacked against you? Ivy Zelman did just that, and she joins us, Ryan Smith and Heather Caine, to unravel the tapestry of her career — from overcoming a challenging upbringing to becoming the definitive voice in home building analysis on Wall Street. Our conversation peels back the layers of her journey, revealing how a blend of fear and unyielding determination propelled her through the tumultuous 90s financial landscape and into the annals of industry legends.Navigating the real estate market can often feel li...2024-04-2331 minObstacles to OpportunitiesBrandi's Beacon of Hope: A Mother's Resilience and Entrepreneurial JourneyBrandi's story is not simply one of triumph over adversity; it's a testament to the resilience of a mother's love and the power of reinvention. On my show, we welcome this tenacious woman with a narrative that weaves through the open fields of Burns, Wyoming, where she learned the value of hard work and family. Her reflections on a childhood without hobbies but filled with life lessons set the stage for her incredible capacity to adapt and thrive in the face of life's complexities. Listeners will be captivated by how these early experiences laid the foundations for Brandi's unwavering...2024-04-1634 minObstacles to OpportunitiesJess & Heather - What is Success Anyway?Welcome to our podcast, where we challenge conventional notions of success and explore what it truly means to live a fulfilling life. Join Jess and Heather as they embark on a candid conversation about their personal journeys and how they've redefined success along the way.In this episode, Jess and Heather open up about their evolving perspectives on success and share the pivotal moments that led them to embrace a new truth. They discuss the ups and downs of navigating life's twists and turns, and how they've learned to find meaning and fulfillment in unexpected places.2024-03-0531 minObstacles to Opportunities"Hidden Saints Among Us" with Cheri Connor, Bryanna McCain, and Makayla SmitJoin us as we delve into the stories of three extraordinary women who have not only excelled in their professional endeavors but have also found profound fulfillment in giving back to their communities.Cheri Connor, Bryanna McCain, and Makayla Smit are not just successful professionals; they are also mothers, entrepreneurs, and advocates for positive change. But what sets them apart is their shared passion for making a difference in the lives of others.In addition to their individual pursuits, these three decided to embark on a passion project together called Hidden Saint. Through this...2024-02-2731 minObstacles to OpportunitiesHeather Fernstrom Border: Overcoming Challenges with Courage and DeterminationWelcome to "Obstacles to Opportunities," the podcast where we delve into the journeys of remarkable individuals who have turned life's challenges into triumphant victories. In this episode, join us as we sit down with Heather Fernstrom Border, the Co-founder & Managing Partner of Alliance Global Advisors, a trailblazing force in the world of developing strategic growth solutions for real asset investment managers.Heather's upbringing was unlike most, as she was raised by entrepreneurs who instilled in her a spirit of resilience and determination. We explore how her childhood experiences paved the way for her tenacity in the business...2024-02-1326 minObstacles to OpportunitiesJess & Heather Talk Forgiveness & The Power of Letting GoWelcome to Episode 9 of our podcast, where hosts Jess and Heather delve into the profound and transformative theme of forgiveness. Join us as Heather shares her personal journey of letting go, unveiling the burning desire she holds this year to release anger and embrace the liberating power of forgiveness.In this heartfelt conversation, Jess and Heather open up about their own challenges with forgiveness, exploring the intricacies of moving from a place of victimhood to one of freedom and positivity. Heather takes us through the steps of her forgiveness process, providing valuable insights and lessons learned along...2024-02-0620 minObstacles to OpportunitiesHeather's Sister Kelly Rodrigue is the GuestGet ready for an engaging and insightful episode as we sit down with Heather's sister- Kelly Rodrigue of HomeVestors. Join us as Kelly gives us a fun and intimate look into her upbringing alongside her sisters, revealing how their shared experiences have shaped their perspectives on life.In this candid conversation, Kelly shares her journey of building successful businesses and offers a glimpse into the balancing act of juggling family and personal commitments. Delve into the importance of recognizing when it's time to end chapters in our lives and gracefully move forward, all while navigating the delicate...2024-01-3024 minObstacles to OpportunitiesFrom Mompreneur to Property Mogul: Dara Whitaker's Journey on the Obstacles to Opportunities PodcastGet ready for an inspiring episode on the "Obstacles to Opportunities Podcast" as Heather and Jess sit down with the dynamic Dara Whitaker, owner of Navigate Naples—a rental management and concierge service company. Join us as Dara shares the incredible story of her life as a mother of two and a successful businesswoman, turning obstacles into opportunities every step of the way.Dara provides a glimpse into her upbringing in a household of entrepreneurs, painting a vivid picture of how her roots influenced her vision for life. Discover how her background laid the foundation for creating so...2024-01-0931 minObstacles to OpportunitiesFrom Obstacles to Opportunities: Mastering MindPower with Coach Carlene MurrayWelcome to another empowering episode of "Obstacles to Opportunities," where hosts Heather and Jess sit down with the incredible Carlene Murray, a coach, business owner, mother, and dedicated encourager. In this enlightening conversation, Carlene shares her profound insights gained from years of experience as a MindPower Coach and how she's turned challenges into stepping stones for personal and professional growth.Tune in as Carlene guides Heather and Jess through a transformative morning routine designed to kickstart the day with intention and positivity. Discover the secrets behind facing each day with resilience and purpose, as Carlene imparts practical...2024-01-0239 minObstacles to OpportunitiesOvercoming Life's Toughest ChallengesIn this emotionally charged episode of "Obstacles to Opportunities," your hosts Jess Powell and Heather Caine bravely bare their souls to explore the profound question: What has been your BIGGEST life obstacle? Get ready for an intimate journey into the lives of these two incredible women as they share the raw, unfiltered stories that have shaped them into the resilient individuals they are today.Jess Powell takes center stage as she opens up about a tragic event from her past that has cast a looming shadow over her life. Jess reveals the deep-seated fear that has become...2023-12-1930 minObstacles to OpportunitiesShannon's Journey from Broadway to Empowering ArtistsWelcome to this episode of Obstacles to Opportunities, where we sit down with the incredible Shannon Darin Harrell. From her early days as a child actor to becoming a mother and a devoted law enforcement wife, Shannon's journey is nothing short of inspiring. As a lover of ALL people, she has embraced advocacy and even graced the Broadway stage. But that's not all—Shannon is also a visionary entrepreneur who turned her passion for the creative arts into meaningful job opportunities for many.Join us as Shannon takes us behind the scenes of her life as the ow...2023-11-2936 minObstacles to OpportunitiesVicki Hemmett's ChiroQueen: Navigating Life's Challenges and TriumphsIn this episode, we sit down with Vicki Hemmett, the multifaceted owner of ChiroQueen, accomplished author, women's health advocate, devoted runner, mother, wife, chiropractor, and entrepreneur. Vicki walks us through her profound passion for the often-overlooked 4th Trimester in women's health and the impactful role she plays in filling a crucial void in women's healthcare.As a young entrepreneur, Vicki opens up about the challenges she has encountered on her journey and shares valuable insights into overcoming obstacles in the business world. Beyond her professional pursuits, Vicki delves into her personal strategies for managing stress, highlighting the...2023-11-1537 minObstacles to OpportunitiesClark Harrison: Survivor to Real Estate SuccessMeet Clark Harrison, a Caine Luxury team member, accomplished property investor with over 25 doors, devoted husband, and special needs dad. Join us as we explore his journey, from the challenges of a young working actor to his adventures on Survivor and a stint in the music industry as a touring 19-year-old. Clark's story is a testament to resilience and transformation. Tune in to "Obstacles & Opportunities" for an inspiring episode of growth and success. 2023-11-0840 minObstacles to OpportunitiesRising Above Storms: Desiree Haight's Roofing JourneyMeet Desiree Haight, the owner of RRCA Roofing and Sky Diamonds University in Naples, Florida. As a dedicated mother of two and the wife of Lee Haight, she and her husband run a thriving company. Their shared passion extends beyond their own success; they're committed to helping aspiring roofing professionals achieve excellence in the industry. However, their path to success has been marked by challenges, including the unique experiences of being a roofer's spouse and the impact of Hurricane Ian on their family. Join us on this episode of "Obstacles & Opportunities" to explore Desiree's inspiring journey in the roofing...2023-11-0134 min