Today we close out our Summer Book Club Series with Beach Read, by Emily Henry. A fun and flirty light romance story of two enemies from college thrown into a Summer bet challenging their writing abilities and while swapping genres they experience the unraveling of buried traumas and discover strength in each other. We recommend this book and author. Also, a great listen on audible. The characters narrate well together.

We dive into our second summer book club title. Alex and Julie explore the darkness and provide a brutally honest review on Colleen Hoover's book, "Too Late."

Alex and Julie dive into Lori Nelson Spielman's The Life List, a novel that deeply resonates with themes of self-discovery, healing, friendship, and love. The story follows Brett, a woman who is required to complete a list of life goals she wrote as a teenager in order to inherit her late mother's fortune. Through this emotional journey, Brett reconnects with old friends, learns the truth about her biological father, rediscovers her passion for teaching, and gains clarity about real love and healthy relationships.

They explore pivotal themes such as:

• Grief and Closure: Brett’s journey helps her make peace with her mother’s secrets and complicated past.
• Rebuilding Relationships: Brett heals her bond with her half-sister and an estranged best friend, Carrie.
• Self-Worth and Strength: She confronts betrayal by her boyfriend and so-called best friend, Megan, ultimately taking back her power by reclaiming her possessions and donating them to help others.
• Dreams vs. Reality: She revisits her failed dream of becoming a teacher and redefines it in an unconventional and fulfilling way.
• Lifelong Friendship: Alex and Julie reflect on how meaningful friendships—especially those formed in youth—remain deep and lasting.

They wrap up the episode with personal reflections on their own “life lists,” the evolving nature of dreams, and how meaningful it is to be present for children and grandchildren. They also share excitement for the next book: Too Late by Colleen Hoover and recommend Say You’ll Remember Me by Abby Jiménez as another emotional, character-driven read.

On this 100th episode of the We Share Podcast with Alex and Julie, we’re celebrating in true We Share style—with authenticity, laughter, and deep connection. Special guests Rachel and Megan join us to talk healing, hypnotherapy, intuition, and the power of rewriting your personal story. Together, they open up about their journeys through grief, burnout, and self-discovery, and how their friendship evolved into a collaborative mission to help others transform.

From subconscious healing and energy work to past lives (and possibly reincarnated Greek uncles in dog form!), this milestone episode explores what happens when you stop settling and start listening—to your body, your gut, and your soul. Megan shares her work in trauma-informed hypnotherapy, while Rachel brings her perspective from wellness coaching, injectables, and IV therapy—all centered around elevating natural beauty and inner alignment.

This 100th episode is full of wisdom, heart, and healing energy. Whether you’re new to the show or have been with us from the start—thank you for being part of our journey. Here's to the next 100!

On this episode of the We Share podcast, Alex and Julie sit down with East Idaho broadcasting icon and longtime sports announcer John Balginy for a heartfelt, funny, and wide-ranging conversation. From calling high school games to spending 20 years on the QB morning show, John reflects on his deep roots in sports and radio, the value of preparation, and the joy of community connection.

He shares insights from decades behind the mic, including favorite sports moments, the evolution of broadcasting, and his take on changes in college athletics and NIL deals. The trio also dives into local music, grandparenting, and concerts at The Sphere in Vegas — all with John's trademark humor and humility (despite his protests against being called a "legend").

Whether you're a sports fan, radio lover, or just someone who appreciates a good story and even better people, this episode is a tribute to longevity, loyalty, and the love of the game.

On this episode of the We Share podcast, Alex and Julie are joined by Michelle Tolman, director of the Bonneville County Library District—and self-described mom and wife extraordinaire—to explore the powerful role libraries play in shaping community, connection, and a love for reading. Michelle shares the inspiring grassroots origin of the district, her journey from stay-at-home mom of nine to library leader, and how her team created thriving local branches with limited funding and endless dedication.

Together, they dive into creative ways to make reading fun for kids of all ages—including reading aloud during Lego time, audiobooks on family walks, and using voices and picture books even for older readers. Michelle emphasizes how the library serves as a safe, welcoming space—especially during Idaho’s long winters—and how it has evolved into more than just a place to borrow books. It now hosts community classes, story times, STEM events, and personalized recommendations tailored to Bonneville County's unique interests.

The episode also kicks off the We Share Summer Book Club, inviting listeners to read along with their three-book series for June, July, and August. With discussions on favorite titles like The Midnight Library, the value of shared reading experiences with kids and adult children alike, and the importance of modeling curiosity and connection through books, this episode celebrates the magic of stories—and the vital community spaces that bring them to life.

On this episode of the We Share podcast, Alex and Julie sit down with Jennell Faulkner, Executive Director of the Nest Pregnancy Center, to discuss the mission and work behind pregnancy centers like hers. Jennell shares how the Nest provides a confidential, judgment-free space for women and men facing unplanned pregnancies—offering emotional support, resources, and practical tools such as parenting classes, baby supplies, and trauma healing.

The conversation dives into the current challenges around abortion access in Idaho, particularly misinformation about the abortion pill and its risks, such as ordering it from unregulated websites without proper medical oversight. Jennell emphasizes the importance of informed choice, highlighting that 80% of women who see an ultrasound of their baby choose life. She also speaks candidly about the real emotional and physical needs these women face and how the Nest steps in to offer support, often through unexpected community generosity.

Jennell shares her personal journey to leading the center, her belief in the power of creating safe spaces, and her hope that society can become more compassionate by listening before judging. The episode wraps with a heartfelt call to empathy: when someone you love faces an unplanned pregnancy, pause, listen, and be their safe place.

On this episode of the We Share podcast, Alex and Julie are joined by certified Trauma Recovery Coach and mental health professional Ciera Belnap. Together, they take listeners on an emotional healing journey as Ciera opens up about her personal experiences with childhood trauma, an unhealthy relationship tied to religious expectations, and the long path of rediscovering her self-worth. She shares how these struggles shaped her passion for helping others heal through trauma recovery coaching.

Ciera discusses the challenges of balancing motherhood, especially after her daughter’s autism diagnosis, and how her journey led her to build a flexible career focused on emotional healing outside of traditional therapy. She explains how trauma often resurfaces in adulthood, particularly through parenting, and emphasizes the importance of surrounding yourself with people who are striving to grow and improve.

Throughout the conversation, Ciera highlights the power of community, personal growth, and creating safe spaces for women to heal. She also shares details about her accessible group programs and the importance of addressing inner critics and limiting beliefs. Alex and Julie wrap up by reinforcing the idea that you become like the five people you spend the most time with, encouraging listeners to seek out positive, growth-minded communities.

On this episode of the We Share podcast, Alex and Julie reflect on motherhood in honor of Mother's Day, sharing heartfelt stories, humorous mishaps, and personal lessons from their own mothers—both of whom have passed on. They explore the highs and lows of being moms themselves, from embarrassing bathroom accidents and awkward teen moments to the bittersweet pride of raising independent children. The episode delves into the emotional transitions of motherhood, including the loneliness of empty-nesting, navigating identity shifts, and trying to stay present in their children's evolving lives. Alex and Julie also celebrate the legacy of their mothers—their kindness, strength, and enduring influence—and talk about how they still feel their presence in small, powerful ways. It's a raw, funny, and tender tribute to motherhood in all its complexity. 

On this episode of the We Share podcast, Alex and Julie sit down with Joy, a deeply intentional educator, healer, and single mom, whose life journey has shaped the way she teaches, supports families, and helps others heal. They dive into her story—how a childhood friend inspired her to become a teacher, how parenting through divorce shaped her perspective, and how her own healing from trauma led her to guide others in emotional regulation, energetic hygiene, and self-worth.

Joy opens up about her experiences teaching young children, recognizing their needs not just academically but emotionally and physically—like providing snacks to support their ability to learn, or teaching them to manage their emotions in healthier ways. She speaks candidly about divorce, parenting mistakes, childhood trauma, and how generational patterns can silently influence adult relationships and self-perception.

Throughout the episode, Joy emphasizes the power of owning your story, recognizing your worth, and learning to release emotional “sludge.” She shares her belief that people—especially parents—are doing the best they can with what they know, and that real healing comes when we face our truths with vulnerability, not shame. Whether it’s working with kids, clients, or her own children, she continues to lead with empathy, intentionality, and a desire to lighten others’ burdens.

The episode closes with a powerful reminder from Joy: you are enough.

On this episode of the We Share podcast, Alex and Julie are joined by advanced certified life coach and personal stylist Sheri Brasier for an inspiring and practical conversation about self-confidence, personal style, and the power of embracing who you are—right now. Sheri shares how a trip to London sparked her love for bold fashion, including fascinators, and how her career pivot during the pandemic led her from hairstyling to life coaching and personal styling.

She opens up about the common struggles women face with self-image, closet overwhelm, and the fear of appearing arrogant for caring about their appearance. Through her work, Sheri empowers women to show up confidently, using the wardrobe they already have to create stylish outfits that reflect their personality and flatter their body shape.

Listeners learn how Sheri’s approach blends practical style advice with deep self-worth coaching—highlighting her six-month program that includes a digital closet, personalized styling sessions, and transformative confidence-building. Whether it’s helping a client love what they see in the mirror or letting go of clothes that no longer serve them, Sheri is passionate about helping women shine. She reminds us that knowing your gifts and using them to bless others is the ultimate path to confidence.

On this episode of the We Share podcast, Alex and Julie sit down with marketing expert Melissa Hart from Persnickety Marketing and Design Co. Melissa shares the story behind her business name and how she took the leap from a corporate job to running her own marketing agency. She discusses the importance of branding, ensuring that a company's visual identity aligns with its mission, and the value of customized marketing strategies for small businesses. The conversation covers everything from the challenges of entrepreneurship to the need for consistency in social media marketing. Melissa also emphasizes the significance of building the right team and investing in professional help to avoid burnout as a business owner. Plus, a fun side discussion about food trucks and creative business ideas adds a lighthearted touch to the episode. 

On this episode of the We Share podcast, Alex and Julie sit down with David Pruitt, the digital director at Sandhill Media and co-owner of Icon Idaho, a board game convention. David shares his journey from working at Disneyland to becoming a software engineer and digital marketer, all while embracing his love for board games and event organizing. He talks about his unconventional upbringing, including learning balloon artistry from his mother—a professional clown—his experience serving a mission, and how those skills ultimately shaped his career.

David dives into the origins of Icon Idaho, a convention dedicated to board games and tabletop RPGs like Dungeons & Dragons, explaining how it grew into a thriving community event held every April and October. He emphasizes the value of taking initiative, encouraging young people to create their own opportunities rather than waiting for success to come to them. Throughout the conversation, he shares humorous and heartfelt stories, reflecting on the role of faith, perseverance, and fun in both business and life.

On this episode of the We Share podcast, Alex and Julie sit down with Celtic musician and self-proclaimed techno nerd, Eric Laing. They dive into Eric’s diverse journey—from discovering his love for music in high school to balancing a career in IT while leading his band, Teton Sky. He shares how technology has shaped modern medicine, his passion for Celtic heritage, and how music remains a powerful, storytelling art form. With insights on AI’s role in radiology, the magic of Scottish melodies, and the joy of creating music in Idaho’s tight-knit scene, this episode is filled with fascinating stories and life lessons. 

On this episode of the We Share podcast, Alex and Julie welcome Heidi Bluemel, a mother and business owner who was diagnosed with MS ten years ago and recently completed a life-changing stem cell transplant. Heidi shares her emotional journey, from the initial symptoms that left her numb and fatigued to the difficult decision to undergo the intensive procedure. She recounts the physical and emotional toll of the treatment, the moments of resilience, and the deep appreciation she gained for her support system—especially her husband and children. Now, experiencing a level of wellness she hasn’t felt since high school, Heidi reflects on the renewed possibilities in her life, from attending her son’s football games without pain to planning future travels. The conversation highlights the challenges of change, the power of faith, and the hope stem cell therapy offers to those battling autoimmune diseases.

On this episode of the We Share podcast, Alex and Julie welcome Debbie Olsen, a certified life coach and founder of the DNA Surprise Network. Debbie shares her personal journey of uncovering a life-altering DNA surprise—discovering that her biological father, whom she believed to be deceased, was actually alive and had been searching for her. She recounts the emotional rollercoaster of reconnecting with him and her newfound siblings, highlighting the unexpected joys and challenges that come with such discoveries.

Through her experience, Debbie found a passion for supporting others facing similar revelations. She discusses how DNA testing is reshaping identities, uncovering long-held family secrets, and even solving crimes. As the Director of Support for Right to Know, she now helps individuals navigate the complexities of genetic surprises with guidance and compassion.

Debbie emphasizes the importance of patience and mindfulness when processing DNA surprises, as they can have profound emotional and relational impacts. She encourages those on this journey to seek support, take their time, and embrace the truth with care.

Tune in to hear Debbie’s powerful story and learn how DNA testing is transforming lives. Don’t forget to share this episode with friends and join Alex and Julie next week on the We Share podcast!

On this episode of the We Share podcast, Alex and Julie sit down with Debbie Olson, owner of Avanti Body, a wellness and weight loss center specializing in red light therapy. Debbie shares how red light therapy provides both expected benefits, such as fat loss and body sculpting, and unexpected advantages, including improved mental health, reduced inflammation, and better sleep. They discuss the science behind red light therapy, how treatments are customized for individual needs, and the importance of body scans to track progress. Debbie also talks about her personal journey with red light therapy and her passion for helping others through wellness and DNA coaching. Tune in to learn how this innovative therapy is making a difference in people’s lives. 

On this episode of the We Share podcast, Alex and Julie talk with Tiffanie Orr, owner of Sweet Cheeks Waxing and Skincare in Salmon, Idaho. Tiffanie shares her journey from esthetic school to building a thriving business focused on skin health and client experience. She discusses the challenges of growing Sweet Cheeks while balancing motherhood, the importance of taking "messy action," and how COVID forced her to implement essential business systems.

Tiffanie also introduces Sweet Cheeks University, an educational platform designed to help estheticians build confidence in their skills, particularly in Brazilian waxing. She emphasizes the power of word-of-mouth marketing, the value of a strong brand identity, and the shift from chasing "work-life balance" to seeking harmony in business and life. If you're an aspiring esthetician or business owner, Tiffanie’s insights on entrepreneurship, branding, and personal growth are packed with valuable takeaways!

On this episode of the We Share Podcast, Alex and Julie explore wellness with Teneal Tula Wright, a business owner and health advocate thriving while living with lupus. Teneal shares her transformative journey, which began with holistic treatments after traditional medicine proved ineffective. She explains how cold plunging and sauna therapy—known as contrast therapy—became life-changing tools to reduce inflammation, boost energy, and regain control over her health.

Teneal recounts starting small with two-minute cold plunges and gradually increasing the duration, pairing them with sauna sessions for maximum benefit. She emphasizes the mental and physical empowerment that comes from embracing this practice, which has also positively impacted her family. She encourages listeners to try cold showers or simple steps as a starting point, highlighting the accessibility of wellness routines.

Through Teneal’s story, Alex and Julie discuss how taking control of one’s health can ripple into other areas of life, fostering better relationships and overall happiness. They remind listeners to be open to trying new things and to lean on others’ experiences for inspiration. As always, the episode concludes with a reminder to share the podcast and tune in next week for more stories of purpose and growth.

On this episode of the We Share podcast, Alex and Julie welcome Chad Spencer, the owner of Region Med and the Wellness Club. Chad shares the inspiring lessons he learned from his grandfather, who built a successful gas station chain in Utah by making swift, confident decisions. Following this philosophy, Chad applies it to his ventures in wellness and health.

The discussion dives into the innovative offerings of the Wellness Club, which combines aesthetics and health solutions. Chad details their services, including IV therapy, body contouring, facials, GLP-1 weight loss programs with nutritional coaching, testosterone treatments for men and women, and regenerative joint therapies using stem cells and plasma injections. He emphasizes a holistic, supportive approach designed to empower clients through education and actionable plans rather than simply providing treatments.

Chad also shares his personal health journey, including losing 35 pounds and regaining energy and mental clarity through the Wellness Club’s services. The team explores how their membership model offers flexibility and accountability, allowing members to customize their health and wellness experiences.

Tune in for a conversation about transformative health strategies and the importance of taking action to live a vibrant, wellness-focused life.

On this episode of the We Share Podcast, Alex and Julie sit down with Lisa Morton, a highly certified Pilates instructor, personal trainer at Club Apple, wife, mother, and former Dallas Cowboys cheerleader. Lisa shares her journey from being inspired to audition for the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders, her experiences during her five seasons on the team, and the valuable lessons she gained, such as the importance of community outreach and personal growth.

She reflects on the decisions that brought her to Idaho, where she transitioned into personal training and eventually specialized in Pilates. Lisa discusses her dedication to teaching others, the certifications she pursued, and the fulfillment she finds in helping clients achieve their goals, whether it’s through private training or group classes. She also explains how Pilates strengthens the body from the inside out and offers advice on starting small with fitness goals, maintaining consistency, and investing in personal wellness.

Lisa emphasizes the importance of pursuing personal goals with family support and encourages listeners to embrace opportunities for growth and self-improvement. Her inspiring story highlights the value of mentorship, resilience, and making intentional choices to lead a fulfilling life.

On this episode of the We Share Podcast, Alex and Julie reflect on their experiences in 2024 and share their hopes for 2025. They discuss the importance of growth through challenges, the value of setting intentions for the year, and the personal words they’ve chosen to guide their journey—"anchor," "amplify," and "bold." Alex opens up about her role as an anchor in her family and her commitment to amplifying her strengths, while Julie explores boldness in action and embracing her softer side.

They touch on meaningful life moments, including Alex’s daughter's near-miss car accident, which reinforces the importance of cherishing every day. The hosts also talk about New Year’s Eve celebrations, personal growth, and the excitement of upcoming episodes focused on wellness. As always, Alex and Julie invite listeners to share their goals, stories, and topics for discussion in the coming year.

With heartfelt wishes for strength and peace in 2025, Alex and Julie encourage everyone to tackle the new year with intention, resilience, and an open heart.

On this episode of the We Share podcast, Alex and Julie chat with Chyna Hansen, founder and CEO of Little Mama Shirt Shop, a thriving local business in eastern Idaho. Chyna shares her inspiring entrepreneurial journey, which began in the spare bedroom of her rental home in Rexburg. She recounts how a simple idea during a move sparked the creation of her business, and how perseverance and courage helped her overcome challenges, including the immense task of shipping a thousand orders during the pandemic.

Throughout the conversation, Chyna emphasizes the importance of bravery, adaptability, and finding inspiration in quiet moments. She reflects on her team’s growth, the sisterhood of motherhood they’ve cultivated, and the joy of creating opportunities for women re-entering the workforce. She also shares the pivotal mentorship she received through the Accelerate Idaho program, which helped her scale the business.

Chyna’s motto, “feel the fear and do it anyway,” serves as a guiding principle in her journey. From overcoming self-doubt to embracing her big dreams, she offers valuable insights for anyone looking to turn a passion into a thriving enterprise. As the episode wraps up, Alex and Julie celebrate Chyna’s success and her unwavering dedication to building a community through her business.

On this episode of the We Share Podcast, Alex and Julie are joined by Sam Iervese , the founder of the A Christmas for Mama charity event. Sam shares her inspiring journey of creating this initiative to honor her late father, who was deeply committed to giving back to his community. Inspired by her father’s example and her own experiences as the child of a single mom, Sam launched this annual event to support struggling single mothers in Idaho during the holiday season.

Throughout the conversation, Sam opens up about her challenges, including her parents’ divorce, her personal healing process, and her desire to create meaningful change in her community. She emphasizes the importance of pushing through adversity and giving back as a way to heal and connect with others. The event features raffles, gift baskets, and community-driven support, with all proceeds going directly to help single mothers.

The discussion also touches on the power of social media platforms like TikTok and Facebook for promoting good causes, navigating the challenges of online communities, and building meaningful connections. Sam highlights how her efforts have been fueled by support from local groups, like Idaho Mom Talk, and her belief in the ripple effect of kindness.

Sam concludes by sharing her motto: every time you do something good, something comes back. She reminds listeners of the importance of community, resilience, and taking that first step toward making a difference, no matter how small. Her story is a testament to the power of love, perseverance, and giving back.

On this episode of the We Share podcast, Alex and Julie are joined by chaplains Elise and Cami from Chaplains of Idaho. They discuss their roles as law enforcement, fire, and community chaplains, emphasizing their non-judgmental and compassionate approach to supporting individuals in crisis. Elise and Cami share moving stories about assisting families after tragedies, from house fires to death notifications, offering resources, comfort, and follow-up care to help with the healing process.

They also delve into the training and spiritual foundations required to become a chaplain, describing the fieldwork and emotional resilience needed to support others effectively. The conversation highlights their vital role in alleviating trauma, not just for victims but also for first responders who may need confidential support.

The chaplains discuss their community outreach efforts, including fundraising through events like a formal gala, and share how people can contribute or access their services. They also touch on the importance of suicide awareness and how their work helps families and children process grief and trauma in healthy ways.

Elise and Cami’s passion for service and their stories of providing peace and comfort underline the profound impact chaplains have in moments of crisis. The episode wraps up with a reminder to seek help when needed and to share these critical resources with others.