Category Archives: Podcast Episodes

This week on Living the Authentic Life, we sit down with Jennifer Koller, an international University Admissions Counselor and Certified Coach helping students discover their purpose and find the right college fit. From Switzerland to the U.S., Jennifer shares insights on studying abroad, building authentic success, and guiding the next generation toward lives filled with curiosity, connection, and calling.
With degrees from Wellesley College and The London School of Economics, Jennifer now guides students applying to top universities in North America, the UK, and Europe — helping them find not just the right college, but the right fit for their future.
In this inspiring conversation, we explore:
✨ The growing trend of American students earning degrees abroad
🎓 How coaching can help college students discover their purpose and prepare for meaningful careers
🌎 The value of openness, curiosity, and connection in an increasingly global world
💡 Why commitment, leadership, and authenticity are at the heart of success
Jennifer brings her international experience and elegant poise to helping students and families navigate one of life’s most transformative chapters: education and purpose.
Through stories of perseverance, Jennifer shares thoughtful advice for parents — from starting early to keeping perspective on what really matters most. Tune in for an episode that blends intellect, heart, and authenticity — the perfect conversation for anyone helping the next generation build lives filled with curiosity, connection, and calling.
🔗 Learn more at www.youridealcollege.com

In this episode, we sit down with Jayne Johnston, Vice President of Patient Access at Memorial Hermann and the 2025 Chair of the Women’s Resource Power of the Purse event — a signature fundraiser supporting free financial education and career development programs for women and girls across Greater Houston.
Jayne brings her passion for purpose-driven leadership, her belief in community impact, and her personal journey balancing career, service, and motherhood. She shares how the Power of the Purse event isn’t just about luxury handbags — it’s about empowering women to take control of their finances, futures, and lives.
As we explore the intersection of calling, connection, and commitment. Jayne opens up about what drives her to lead, serve, and give back — and why authenticity, grit, and collaboration are at the heart of real change. We also discuss:
• Her leadership philosophy and community work

• What purpose means to her — and how to discover your own

• The life-changing work of The Women’s Resource

• Why supporting women creates stronger families and stronger communities

✨ Mark your calendars!
The 4th Annual Power of the Purse fundraiser happens on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, from 5:30–8:00 PM at The Revaire in Houston.
🎟️ Tickets start at $150 | Sponsorships from $500
💼 100% of proceeds fund free programs for women and girls in need.
🔗 Get involved: thewomensresource.org/2025-powerofthepurse
This episode is a reminder that when women rise, communities thrive. Tune in and get inspired to reflect, give back, and find your own “power of the purse.”

What does it really take to lead through discomfort, transform industries, and leave a lasting impact on your community? In this episode, we sit down with Alfred Lindseth, Principal of CI5O Advisory Services and former Fortune 100 executive, to explore the intersection of leadership, technology, and philanthropy.

Recognized as one of Time Iconic’s Top 10 Influential Business Leaders Transforming the Future in 2024, Al now invests in companies that not only generate returns but also make the world a better place—like AI-driven startups focused on early cancer detection.

Beyond the boardroom, Al’s passion for giving back is evident. From serving on the Houston Zoo’s board to championing Real Men Wear Pink for breast cancer awareness, he believes philanthropy teaches some of the most important lessons in leadership.

In this conversation, we cover:
• Why good leaders must embrace discomfort and sometimes “ruffle feathers”
• How philanthropy shapes better business leadership
• Cybersecurity tips every executive should know
• The role of AI in transforming industries—and even saving lives
• Why connection, purpose, and community are essential for living authentically

Al also shares personal insights (including what his wife calls his “look at me” trait 😂) and reminds us that commitment means doing what you said you would, long after the feeling has passed.

If you’re curious about innovation, leadership, and creating impact beyond the bottom line, this episode is packed with inspiration and wisdom.

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Thank you for visiting The Vintage Contessa & Times Past. Subscribe to our channel for a glimpse into the world of luxury living, insights into the authenticity process, and much more. Embrace the luxury of the past and present with The Vintage Contessa & Times Past.

In this special live podcast recorded at our Fall Into Fashion charity event, we were honored to welcome Anne Neeson, Executive Vice President & CEO of the Memorial Hermann Foundation, and Caitlin McVey, MBA, RN, CPHQ, CLSSBB, Associate Vice President of the Memorial Hermann Institute for Nursing Excellence.
Anne shared an inspiring overview of Memorial Hermann’s mission and impact in our community, while Caitlin offered a powerful look into the Institute for Nursing Excellence—touching on scholarships, certification support, leadership training, and the innovative work being done to elevate nurses and advance patient care.
Together, their stories highlighted the vital role of philanthropy and nursing in shaping a healthier future for Houston and beyond.
Paired with a Fall/Holiday Fashion Presentation by designer Christy Lynn and an afternoon of shopping for a cause, this episode gives a peak inside a fabulous afternoon of wellness, fashion, and philanthropy at this memorable event.

This week, the Contessa sits down with longtime friend and Houston community leader Tracy Dieterich — a philanthropist, activist, husband, and proud girl dad whose world revolves around his family and his passion for giving back.

From his roots in a modest household to becoming Senior Vice President, partner, and shareholder in the commercial insurance industry, Tracy has always believed we have a responsibility to serve others. His journey was shaped early on by his mentor and Big Brother, Kelly, who sparked his love of travel and broadened his horizons. Though he didn’t take his first trip to Europe until age 32, Tracy has since explored the world while dedicating his life to building meaningful relationships and making an impact at home.

Tracy shares how connection is at the heart of everything he does — from founding the Men’s Toolbox Lunch to encourage men to gather vulnerably and authentically, to championing causes like Big Brothers Big Sisters, Dress for Success Houston, the Houston Symphony, and the Boy Scouts of America. He and his wife, Valerie, will even co-chair the upcoming Dress for Success Gala together.

Tune in to hear how Tracy has built a life centered on connection, purpose, and generosity — and why he believes true success comes from giving back.

What does it mean to pursue authenticity in science, wellness, and life?
In this episode, Donae sits down with longtime friend and jewelry industry leader Danny Shaftel, whose family founded Shaftel Diamonds in 1978, to talk about his latest venture: Proliven Labs.

Born from a frustration with inconsistent sourcing and lack of transparency in the peptide world, Danny created Proliven Labs to raise the standard for research-grade peptides—focusing on quality, small-batch sourcing, and third-party verification. Together, we unpack the “Peptides 101” basics, their role in skincare, wellness, and performance, and how to separate fact from hype in a crowded industry.

We also explore Danny’s deeper journey of purpose—how reflecting on ikigai (the Japanese concept of purpose and fulfillment) shaped his mission, and why authenticity, community, and connection remain his guiding principles both in business and life.

From gemstones to peptides, Danny’s story reminds us that the pursuit of quality and truth never goes out of style. Whether you’re curious about wellness innovations or simply need a dose of inspiration to commit to your own purpose, this conversation is full of insights you won’t want to miss.

What does it really mean to age with energy, grace, and confidence?

This week on Living the Authentic Life, we welcome Sharon Feanny—
a trailblazing yoga teacher, wellness leader, retreat host, and author who has spent more than 30 years transforming the way women approach health, healing, and longevity.

At 60, Sharon embodies everything she teaches. From navigating an autoimmune condition and anxiety to reinventing herself after divorce and career shifts, she has lived the lessons she now shares with thousands of women across Jamaica and beyond. Her philosophy is simple but powerful: Live Fit. Live Life. Live Love.

In this inspiring conversation, Sharon opens up about:
– The five simple tools she uses daily for stress relief and resilience
– Why movement is medicine (and how 20 minutes can change your day)
– How to use food as fuel for vitality and clarity
– The role of gratitude, community, and connection in living a long, radiant life
– Why your 60s can be your most powerful, purposeful decade yet
Whether you’re a high-achieving woman who gives everything to others but struggles to prioritize your own health, or you’re simply curious about what vibrant aging can look like, this episode is your invitation to pause, reset, and invest in yourself.
As Sharon reminds us: “The goal is not just to survive, but to thrive.”

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Don’t miss out on any updates or exclusive offers. Follow us on our social media channels:

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Thank you for visiting The Vintage Contessa & Times Past. Subscribe to our channel for a glimpse into the world of luxury living, insights into the authenticity process, and much more. Embrace the luxury of the past and present with The Vintage Contessa & Times Past.

In this heartfelt and stylish episode, the Contessa sits down with her one of her dearest longtime friends in Houston’s fashion industry, Katherine Le, for a conversation that spans decades of friendship, fashion, and life’s biggest blessings. 💖

Bonded over a love of handbags and high style, Katherine’s journey has been anything but conventional. From finance to fine jewelry, she’s never been tied to just one career. She launched her jewelry line, Ava Le, named after her beloved daughter, always asking friends: “What can I bling to your life?” ✨

Beyond fashion, the Contessa and Katherine share another deep connection—the gift of motherhood. After years of hoping, praying, and waiting, they both welcomed daughters in the same year, making motherhood their most cherished role. As they prepare for empty nesting with their girls heading off to college, they reflect on the journey that brought them here.

Katherine’s expertise doesn’t stop at jewelry—she’s a go-to for skincare, style, and investment-worthy fashion. She shares:
💎 Why Korean skincare changed everything (and her 8-step routine!)
👜 How true style is more than money—it’s about knowing what works for you
💰 Why pre-owned luxury is a growing trend, despite old beliefs about spirits and omens
🏦 How her Vietnamese roots shaped her view on fashion as an investment

Through every chapter—handbags, beauty, motherhood, and now, new beginnings—one thing remains: true friendship never goes out of style. 💕

Tune in for a conversation full of laughs, wisdom, and of course, fabulous fashion!

#luxurystyle #koreanskincare #handbaglover #FriendshipAndFashion #AvaLeJewelry #preownedluxury

We sell authenticated luxury products independently and we are not affiliated, associated or connected with any brands or companies of such products. 100% authenticity guaranteed or money back.

Step into the world of Chic Boutique, where fashion meets philanthropy in the most stylish way! In this episode, we sit down with Melanie Jarrell, Chic Boutique Gold Chair for the Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary “Reflections on Style” event, to discuss the upcoming pop-up shopping experience that’s truly one of Houston’s best-kept secrets.

📍 Chic Boutique Details:
🛍 Location: 3403 Richmond Ave
✨ Opening Night: Wednesday, April 9 | 3PM–7PM ($20 donation at the door – arrive early, lines around the block are legendary!)
🛒 Shop the Chic Boutique: April 10–12 | 10AM–5PM

Chic Boutique isn’t just another resale shop—it’s a curated shopping experience where Houston’s most fabulous closets donate their treasures to create a fashion lover’s dream at unbeatable prices. Volunteers (in their iconic red aprons!) meticulously organize, style, and create a boutique-like setting that feels luxurious, exclusive, and community-driven.

Every piece sold carries a story—not just from the stylish donor but also through scripture-adorned tags, reminding us of the greater mission behind the event. This is more than shopping; it’s fashion with a purpose.

At the heart of it all, we’re raising funds for critical Houston-area programs through the Salvation Army. Toward the end of the episode, Major Carolynn joins us to share the profound impact this event has—providing housing for families, rehabilitation for veterans, summer camps for kids, support for human trafficking survivors, and so much more.

💖 How to Get Involved:
✔️ Donate your gently loved designer pieces
✔️ Shop the boutique for incredible finds at amazing prices
✔️ Volunteer and be part of something bigger

“If you have two coats, give one away.” – Luke 3:11

Join us as we celebrate fashion, philanthropy, and the power of community.