"If you're serious about scaling, it's time to look beyond borders—Africa has the talent, the drive, and the innovation the world needs."

– Valerie Bowden

In this episode of Turmeric & Tequila™, host Kristen Olson sits down with Valerie Bowden—founder of CRDLE and a trailblazer in remote talent acquisition from Africa. Valerie shares her journey from solo backpacking across Africa to living in Ethiopia for eight years, and how those experiences led to building a global business that connects companies with top-tier African talent. We explore how ethical hiring, cross-cultural collaboration, and untapped global potential are changing the future of business. Valerie’s mission? Help companies rise above the competition with one smart, conscious move: Choose Africa. Whether you're a startup founder, remote team leader, or impact-driven entrepreneur—this one’s for you. Learn more: crdle.com

Time Stamps:

00:00 – Intro: Meet Valerie Bowden
02:45 – Backpacking Africa & living in Ethiopia
07:20 – Founding CRDLE and the origin of “Choose Africa”
11:40 – The untapped potential of African remote talent
15:55 – Challenges and biases in global hiring
21:00 – Sales optimization tips from CRDLE's strategy
27:30 – Why remote teams thrive with intentional hiring
32:10 – Advice for entrepreneurs ready to scale
36:45 – Building a purpose-led business and family life
40:20 – How to work with Valerie & CRDLE
43:00 – Final thoughts + rapid-fire values round

Valerie Bowden:

Valerie Bowden helps businesses find top-tier remote talent and optimize their sales operations by tapping into talent in Africa.

Valerie has spent years working with businesses across all industries to level up their sales and rise above the competition with one simple action: Choose Africa. Before she launched CRDLE, she backpacked across Africa solo and lived in Ethiopia for 8 years. She now resides in Pittsburgh with her husband and two kids

https://www.instagram.com/crdleafrica

Follow Valerie on LinkedIn: Valerie Bowden

IG: @TurmericTequila

Facebook: @TurmericAndTequila

Website: www.TurmericAndTequila.com

Host: Kristen Olson

IG: @Madonnashero

Tik Tok: @Madonnashero

Website: www.KOAlliance.com

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“Banter opens the door, but empathy keeps you in the room.”

- Jill Robin Payne

In this episode of Turmeric & Tequila™, host Kristen Olson welcomes the dynamic and insightful Jill Robin Payne, MA, LPC-S, LCDC—renowned psychotherapist, author, and creator of Bempathy®. With over 40 years of experience in mental health and communication, Jill dives into how blending humor (banter) with empathy creates meaningful, lasting human connection. We talk about therapy, social media, family dynamics, dating, boundaries, and how to navigate difficult conversations with grace, humor, and authenticity. Jill shares stories from her decades of experience and explains how Bempathy® helps people reconnect—especially in today’s overstimulated, under-communicated world. If you want to improve your relationships, understand others better, and learn how to banter with heart, this is a must-listen episode. VIDEO: https://youtu.be/ViyYSXm5LZk?si=nGKvkG4yyzAobL5A

Time Stamps:

00:00 – Welcome + intro to Jill Robin Payne
02:45 – The evolution of Jill’s 40+ year career in therapy
06:30 – What is Bempathy®? And why it matters today
11:20 – Banter vs. sarcasm: communication that connects
15:50 – Navigating generational trauma and healing
20:10 – Bempathy® in dating, parenting, and leadership
25:45 – The role of humor in therapy and relationships
31:30 – Jill’s experience with media and speaking
36:20 – Real-world examples of Bempathy® in action
41:00 – Jill’s call to action: be bold, be kind, be real
44:50 – Where to follow Jill and learn more

Jill Robin Payne, MA, LPC-S, LCDC, is a trailblazing psychotherapist, author, and communication coach with over 40 years of experience. Creator of Bempathy®, a unique reciprocal communication method combining banter with empathy, Jill empowers individuals to build genuine connections. A dynamic speaker and media guest, she’s been featured on national TV, radio, and podcasts. With a rich career spanning groundbreaking internships, innovative therapy, and global lectures, Jill’s work inspires lasting impact and transformative relationships.

🌐 Website: https://jillrobinpayne.com
📱 IG: @jillrobinpayne
📘 Facebook: Jill Robin Payne
🐦 Twitter/X: @jillrobinpayne
💼 LinkedIn: Jill Robin Payne
🎶 TikTok: @jillrobinpayne

Connect with T&T:

IG: @TurmericTequila

Facebook: @TurmericAndTequila

Website: www.TurmericAndTequila.com

Host: Kristen Olson

IG: @Madonnashero

Tik Tok: @Madonnashero

Website: www.KOAlliance.com

WATCH HERE

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“Your identity isn’t what you do—it’s who you become in the process. Fame fades, but purpose endures.”
– Christian Ray Flores

In this powerful episode of Turmeric & Tequila™, host Kristen Olson is joined by Christian Ray Flores—global speaker, impact-driven entrepreneur, and former international music star. From topping the charts in post-Soviet Russia to co-founding award-winning companies and nonprofit movements, Christian’s story is anything but ordinary.

They dive deep into identity, leadership, and legacy—unpacking how fame shaped Christian’s worldview and how faith continues to guide his mission in business, philanthropy, and media. Whether you’re building a personal brand or looking for purpose beyond success, this conversation is filled with practical wisdom and soulful reminders that your path matters.

Time Stamps:

0:00 – Welcome + Christian Ray Flores' wild journey from fame to faith
4:10 – The unexpected rise to pop stardom in post-Soviet Russia
9:30 – Leaving the spotlight to pursue a deeper mission
13:45 – Entrepreneurship, spiritual alignment, and serving through business
18:25 – Overcoming ego, imposter syndrome, and pressure to perform
24:50 – Advice to creators and changemakers
29:30 – Why faith + impact are the ultimate success metrics
34:20 – Final reflections on leadership, legacy, and what’s next

Christian Ray Flores

Founder, Xponential Life Coaching

Christian Ray Flores is an entrepreneur, evangelist, international recording artist, and philanthropist. From a childhood as a refugee to international pop stardom in post-Soviet Russia, he has forged an extraordinary path as a successful artist, speaker, and impact-driven leader. He co-founded Ascend Academy, Third Drive, and launched Xponential, a high-performance coaching program and community designed to help world changers thrive in life, leadership, and faith. Christian is a sought-after voice on creativity, business, purpose, and global transformation—combining real-world experience with spiritual conviction to inspire and equip the next generation of change-makers.

https://www.xponential.life/littlebook

https://www.xponential.life/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/christianrayflores/

https://x.com/ChristianRay

https://www.facebook.com/christianrayflores1/

https://www.instagram.com/christianrayflores/

https://www.tiktok.com/@christianrayflores

Connect with T&T:

IG: @TurmericTequila

Facebook: @TurmericAndTequila

Website: www.TurmericAndTequila.com

Host: Kristen Olson

IG: @Madonnashero

Tik Tok: @Madonnashero

Website: www.KOAlliance.com

WATCH HERE

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https://youtu.be/9Vs2JDzJJXk?si=dpjV31GDqTroUKWH

"The moment I stopped chasing validation and started trusting myself, everything shifted—my peace, my power, and my purpose."
— Misty

In this powerful episode of Turmeric & Tequila™, host Kristen Olson welcomes Misty—a woman of remarkable resilience, transformation, and wisdom. Misty opens up about her journey from deep self-doubt and trauma to spiritual awakening and self-empowerment. She shares how hitting rock bottom became the catalyst for healing, entrepreneurship, and helping others rediscover their worth. Together, Kristen and Misty explore:

• Healing from generational trauma
• Finding clarity and confidence through mindset shifts
• The importance of alignment in business and life
• Why pain can be our greatest teacher
• The role of spirituality, rituals, and self-care in personal growth
• Redefining success and surrendering to divine timing

Whether you’re seeking clarity, building confidence, or stepping into your power—this episode will ignite your soul.

Time Stamps:

00:00 – Introduction and Sponsor Shoutouts
02:05 – Meet Misty: Her childhood, trauma, and early lessons
09:45 – From rock bottom to awakening: The power of surrender
17:30 – Healing codependency and finding her own voice
24:50 – Why emotional boundaries are key to peace
31:15 – Building a business from soul alignment
39:00 – Rituals, morning practices, and divine timing
46:10 – Trusting yourself and the universe
52:30 – Final thoughts and what success means to Misty

Misty Bell Stiers:

Misty Bell Stiers is an artist, storyteller and boss witch who has spent her career focused on leveraging her passion for diversity, equity and inclusion—and a little bit of magic—to create systemic change at every level. As an executive creative director, podcast guest, speaker and author, Misty has mastered using her unique perspective to help people find ways to truly connect to the world around them and the people in it.

https://www.mistybellstiers.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mistybellstiers

https://twitter.com/mistybellstiers

https://www.facebook.com/mistybellstiers/

https://www.instagram.com/mistybellstiers/

Books:

2023 - Light, Fire & Abundance https://a.co/d/au2JC4b

2024 - She Changed the World (contributor) https://a.co/d/9pZA09I

Connect with T&T:

IG: @TurmericTequila

Facebook: @TurmericAndTequila

Website: www.TurmericAndTequila.com

Host: Kristen Olson

IG: @Madonnashero

Tik Tok: @Madonnashero

Website: www.KOAlliance.com

WATCH HERE

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https://youtu.be/9Vs2JDzJJXk?si=dpjV31GDqTroUKWH

"When there’s hope in the future, there’s power in the present."

- Dane Espegard

In this inspiring episode of Turmeric & Tequila™, host Kristen Olson sits down with Dane Espegard—entrepreneur, author, speaker, and culture consultant—to talk all things leadership, intentional living, and integrating dreams into company culture. From his early days in direct sales with Cutco to creating “The Dream Machine” book and platform, Dane shares how aligning personal dreams with work culture can drive purpose, performance, and retention. You’ll hear how Dane turned a commission-based job into a fulfilling mission-driven career, his insights into what it means to lead with joy, and why dreaming should be at the heart of every workplace. Kristen and Dane also discuss the power of athletics, family, and staying energized in your zone of genius.

Time Stamps:

0:00 – Intro + sponsor shoutouts

1:50 – Welcome Dane Espegard & his background in athletics and leadership

7:30 – Early start with Cutco and entrepreneurial roots

11:45 – How direct sales shaped his mindset

14:50 – Inspiration from author Matthew Kelly and the seeds of dream culture

20:05 – Transition from top performer to dream-driven consultant

25:45 – Building a team culture that retains talent

32:30 – Why Gen Z and younger workers want more than a paycheck

36:15 – The Dream Machine book: Who it’s for & what it teaches

43:20 – Launching DreamsVault.com and building a scalable tool

49:50 – Favorite dreams from his team (including… colonics?!)

54:40 – What success really means to Dane

57:10 – Faith, family, and finding energy alignment

1:00:25 – Where to find Dane and how to grab his free book

Dane Espegard is a culture consultant, entrepreneur, and author of The Dream Machine. With over 20 years of experience as a top performer in the direct sales industry, Dane helps organizations boost retention and engagement by aligning personal dreams with workplace culture. He is the founder of The Dreams System, a proven framework adopted by companies across the U.S. to empower employees through goal-setting, values alignment, and personal growth. Dane is also a sought-after speaker and the creator of DreamsVault.com, a digital platform helping teams track and celebrate individual dreams. Learn more at www.daneespegard.com

Connect:

• Website: www.daneespegard.com
• Book: daneespegard.com/freegift
• Instagram: @daneespegard
• LinkedIn: Dane Espegard

Connect with T&T:

IG: @TurmericTequila

Facebook: @TurmericAndTequila

Website: www.TurmericAndTequila.com

Host: Kristen Olson

IG: @Madonnashero

Tik Tok: @Madonnashero

Website: www.KOAlliance.com

WATCH HERE

MORE LIKE THIS:

https://youtu.be/ZCFQSpFoAgI?si=Erg8_2eH8uyEgYZF

https://youtu.be/piCU9JboWuY?si=qLdhFKCGdBzuAeuI

https://youtu.be/9Vs2JDzJJXk?si=dpjV31GDqTroUKWH

"We don’t leave a legacy—we live it. Moment by moment, choice by choice."

– Kat O’Sullivan

In this inspiring episode of Turmeric & Tequila™, host Kristen Olson welcomes keynote speaker, author, and transition coach Kat O’Sullivan for a powerful conversation on what it means to reinvent yourself — with grace, courage, and authenticity. Kat shares her incredible journey from being born in a "secret city" to coaching organizations and individuals through transformational change. Learn about her “4 Cs” framework (Courag e, Clarity, Commitment, Capacity), how to silence doubt, and why legacy isn’t something you leave behind — it’s what you live every single day. Whether you're feeling stuck, ready to pivot, or seeking your next big breakthrough, Kat’s story and tools will reignite your belief in what’s possible.

Timestamps:

00:00 – Intro + Sponsors
01:10 – Meet Kat O’Sullivan: Secret cities & a legacy of transformation
06:00 – Early exposure to difference, resourcefulness, and leadership
11:00 – Sponsorship at 16: How Kat called Bob Hope for support
14:30 – What would you do if you knew you couldn't fail?
18:00 – Coaching teams & companies to think differently
20:00 – The “4 Cs” for transformation: Courage, Clarity, Commitment, Capacity
25:00 – From burnout to Mexico: Living legacy through bold moves
28:00 – TED Talk preview: “Why How We Think About Legacy Is Dead Wrong”
31:00 – Daily disruption, with grace
33:00 – Kat’s definition of success: Living your truth
34:30 – Closing thoughts + where to find Kat

Kat O’Sullivan is a keynote speaker, podcast host, author, and transition coach. For over 25 years, she has helped individuals and organizations discover new possibilities, even when they felt impossible. Kat has worked across sectors — corporate, nonprofit, education, and privately-owned businesses, providing a roadmap, support, and tools to bring their vision to life. She is passionate about helping people move toward the future just waiting for them to say “Hell, YES!” to new possibilities. Book: From Doubt to Do: Navigating Your Pathway to Possibility
Connect with Kat: www.katosullivan.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/make-magic-happen/

https://www.facebook.com/MakeMagicHappenNow

https://www.instagram.com/kshift4u/

Connect with T&T:

IG: @TurmericTequila

Facebook: @TurmericAndTequila

Website: www.TurmericAndTequila.com

Host: Kristen Olson

IG: @Madonnashero

Tik Tok: @Madonnashero

Website: www.KOAlliance.com

WATCH HERE

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https://youtu.be/9Vs2JDzJJXk?si=dpjV31GDqTroUKWH