The Unfiltered Founder

Kelly Reeves
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  • Entrepreneurship
  • Updated weekly

Welcome to The Unfiltered Founder (formerly The Confidence Academy), the podcast for founders, entrepreneurs, and business owners who want to grow their business without the guru BS. Each week, you'll get unfiltered conversations, practical strategies, and real-world insights on what's blocking your growth—and what to do about it. Each episode is designed to challenge your thinking, simplify what feels complicated, and help you make smarter decisions that move your business forward. thekellyreeves.substack.com

  1. 23/09/2025

    Ep. 26 Italian Grandma's Cooking and How To Survive and Thrive In A Cut-Throat Industry

    We eat at restaurants every day, but have you ever wondered what really goes on behind the scenes? The restaurant industry is one of the most high-stress and competitive businesses in the world. Long hours, razor-thin margins, and constant pressure to adapt make it one of the toughest environments to succeed in. Add in the economy, supply chain challenges, labor shortages, and global events—and survival becomes even harder. My guest today, Thad Foret, has done more than survive—he’s built success. Thad is the owner of Foretti’s Ristorante in Corona Del Mar, California, and former partner and investor at The Winery Restaurant in Newport Beach. In this episode, we cover: - How Thad bought and built a successful restaurant during Covid - How food, wine, and culture shape the dining experience - Why building and leading the right team is the key to thriving in a cutthroat industry If you want to hear what it really takes to succeed in business in today’s world, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Mentioned in this episode: Foretti's https://www.forettis.com/  Let’s Connect! Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/kellylreeves/ Follow me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KellyLeeReeves  SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more people who need to hear it most. Thanks for tuning in to The Confidence Academy! See you next week! Disclaimer: The Confidence Academy and content posted by Kelly Reeves are presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes and reflect Kelly’s and her guests’ personal knowledge, experiences, and opinions. The content included in this podcast is not intended as a substitute for the advice of an accountant, financial advisor, physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified medical or financial professional, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any financial, physical, or mental health concerns, please seek the immediate assistance of a healthcare or financial professional. Get full access to The Unfiltered Founder at thekellyreeves.substack.com/subscribe

    Ep. 26 Italian Grandma's Cooking and How To Survive and Thrive In A Cut-Throat Industry

  2. 02/09/2025

    Ep. 25 Toxic Relationship with Money? Here's How to Fix It

    Does your relationship with money look a lot like your dating life— full of breakups, clinginess, neglect, drama, and sometimes even ghosting? In this episode of The Confidence Academy, I share a sneak peek inside my new book, I ❤️ U, Money: How to Stop Ghosting Your Cash, Heal the Drama, and Build a Financial Relationship That Lasts. You’ll learn: - The “breakup behaviors” that keep you stuck in scarcity, fear, and avoidance - How to start shifting into the “honeymoon phase” where money actually feels exciting again - What a healthy, lasting relationship with money really looks like (and how to start building it) This episode is your mini-guide to spotting toxic money patterns and making small shifts toward peace, prosperity, and confidence. Want the full roadmap? Grab your copy of I ❤️ U, Money, and start building a financial relationship that truly lasts. Mentioned in this episode: "I ❤️ U, Money" by Kelly Reeves (that's me!) "Happy Money" by Ken Honda Teanna Lambert: https://.teannalambert.com “The Total Money Makeover” by Dave Ramsey Let’s Connect! Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/kellylreeves/ Follow me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KellyLeeReeves  SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more people who need to hear it most. Thanks for tuning in to The Confidence Academy! See you next week! Disclaimer: The Confidence Academy and content posted by Kelly Reeves are presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes and reflect Kelly’s and her guests’ personal knowledge, experiences, and opinions. The content included in this podcast is not intended as a substitute for the advice of an accountant, financial advisor, physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified medical or financial professional, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any financial, physical, or mental health concerns, please seek the immediate assistance of a healthcare or financial professional. Get full access to The Unfiltered Founder at thekellyreeves.substack.com/subscribe

    Ep. 25 Toxic Relationship with Money? Here's How to Fix It

  3. 26/08/2025

    Ep. 24 Think You're Too Old Or It's Too Late To Start Over? Think Again!

    Have you ever thought you’re too old to start over, or wondered if it’s too late to chase a dream you’ve carried in your heart for years? Maybe you’ve spent decades building a career, raising a family, or taking care of everyone else — and now you feel that tug that says, what about me? If that’s you, today’s episode is going to hit home. I’m joined by Tatum Crenshaw, who proves it’s never too late to reinvent yourself.  After 25 years in finance, she made the bold leap into acting, writing, and filmmaking — and she hasn’t looked back. From self-publishing her first book Hashtag This, to writing, producing, and starring in her debut short film I Want Him Dead, to landing a supporting role in the upcoming series Love & Brooklyn — Tatum brings resilience, truth, and tenacity to everything she does. You'll learn: - What it takes to pivot careers after decades in one field - How moms can put themselves on their priority list - without the guilt - Why it’s never too late to pursue your passions with confidence and conviction If you’ve ever felt “too stuck” or “too late” to go after what you really want—this episode will remind you that your next chapter can be the most powerful one yet. Mentioned in this episode: "Hashtag This" by Tatum Crenshaw-Murphy: https://amzn.to/47Kzmoj Connect with Tatum: @BossLadyTee Let’s Connect! Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/kellylreeves/ Follow me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KellyLeeReeves    SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more people who need to hear it most. Thanks for tuning in to The Confidence Academy! See you next week! Disclaimer: The Confidence Academy and content posted by Kelly Reeves are presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes and reflect Kelly’s and her guests’ personal knowledge, experiences, and opinions. The content included in this podcast is not intended as a substitute for the advice of an accountant, financial advisor, physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified medical or financial professional, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any financial, physical, or mental health concerns, please seek the immediate assistance of a healthcare or financial professional. Get full access to The Unfiltered Founder at thekellyreeves.substack.com/subscribe

    Ep. 24 Think You're Too Old Or It's Too Late To Start Over? Think Again!

  4. 19/08/2025

    Ep: 23 Tales of a Runaway Bride: Finding the Courage and Confidence To Make Life-Altering Decisions

    Have you ever wanted to walk away from something you knew wasn’t right for you, but felt trapped — like you were already too far in to back out? Whether it’s a toxic job, a painful relationship, or a chapter of life that no longer fits, you’re not alone. In this episode, I sit down with Katherine Woller, #1 bestselling author of "Calling It Off: Memoir of an Almost Bride," to talk about what it really takes to leave when everyone expects you to stay.  Katherine shares her own “too far in” moment — the one that hit during her final wedding dress fitting — and the courageous decision to call off her wedding just two weeks before the big day. We talk about: - How to recognize the signs you’re out of alignment before you hit your breaking point - The mindset shifts and courage it takes to walk away - Rebuilding your self-trust so you never doubt your decisions again - What to do right now if you feel stuck or trapped Katherine’s story is a masterclass in trusting yourself, even when it defies expectations. If you’ve ever ignored your gut because the stakes felt too high, this conversation is your permission slip to choose yourself — without apology. Mentioned in this episode: "Calling It Off: Memoir of an Almost Bride": https://amzn.to/4oEVAOE Connect with Katherine: https://www.katherinerosewoller.com/ Let’s Connect! Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/kellylreeves/ Follow me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KellyLeeReeves    SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more people who need to hear it most. Thanks for tuning in to The Confidence Academy! See you next week! Disclaimer: The Confidence Academy and content posted by Kelly Reeves are presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes and reflect Kelly’s and her guests’ personal knowledge, experiences, and opinions. The content included in this podcast is not intended as a substitute for the advice of an accountant, financial advisor, physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified medical or financial professional, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any financial, physical, or mental health concerns, please seek the immediate assistance of a healthcare or financial professional. Get full access to The Unfiltered Founder at thekellyreeves.substack.com/subscribe

    Ep: 23 Tales of a Runaway Bride: Finding the Courage and Confidence To Make Life-Altering Decisions

  5. 12/08/2025

    Ep. 22 Is entrepreneurship for you? Or should you stick with your 9 to 5?

    Entrepreneurship is sold as the ultimate freedom—be your own boss, live your dream, work from anywhere.  But what happens when that dream starts to feel like a never-ending grind? There was a time, a few years ago, that after 20+ years of building my own businesses, I made the decision to return to the corporate world.  Not because I failed—but because I finally saw the truth behind the hustle. I was broke, burnt out, and just needed something consistent and predictable. In this episode, I pull back the curtain on the dark side of entrepreneurship that no one talks about, and why choosing stability over chaos was the most confident, empowered decision I’ve made. You’ll hear: - Why I walked away from two decades of entrepreneurship - The burnout, financial stress, and mindset spiral that pushed me to the edge - How COVID forced a total redefinition of success and priorities -The truth about toxic online business culture (and why I had enough) -How purpose doesn’t have to come with a personal brand or 6-figure funnel This is a reminder that peace, stability, and a steady paycheck are not the enemy. And while I’m back to being self-employed, I’m not afraid to leave it again. If you've ever asked yourself: -“Is this hustle, stress, grind, and financial insecurity really worth it?” -“Why does entrepreneurial success feel more exhausting than liberating?” -“Could I be happier doing something simpler?” Then this episode will hit home. Tune in and give yourself permission to choose what’s right for you—not what Instagram says you should want. Mentioned in this episode: The Step One Method: https://kellyleereeves.my.canva.site/step-one-method  Let’s Connect! Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/kellylreeves/ Follow me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KellyLeeReeves    SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more people who need to hear it most. Thanks for tuning in to The Confidence Academy! See you next week! Disclaimer: The Confidence Academy and content posted by Kelly Reeves are presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes and reflect Kelly’s and her guests’ personal knowledge, experiences, and opinions. The content included in this podcast is not intended as a substitute for the advice of an accountant, financial advisor, physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified medical or financial professional, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any financial, physical, or mental health concerns, please seek the immediate assistance of a healthcare or financial professional. Get full access to The Unfiltered Founder at thekellyreeves.substack.com/subscribe

    Ep. 22 Is entrepreneurship for you? Or should you stick with your 9 to 5?

  6. 05/08/2025

    Ep. 21 The Real Cost of Miscommunication: Emotional Intelligence in the Digital Age with Tara Renze

    Ever been in a text war that got out of control? Or maybe didn't get the response you wanted on an email? Or ended up going back and forth on social media, trying to get your point across - and getting frustrated? In today’s hyper-connected world, communication is more complicated than ever. Between email, Slack, text, social media, and Zoom, most of our messages are delivered without tone, context, or empathy—and it's taking a toll on our relationships, businesses, and confidence. In this episode, I sit down with Tara Renze—keynote speaker, author, podcaster, and emotional intelligence expert—who helps women get mentally fit, own their authenticity, and fully step into who they came to be. We unpack: - Why self-awareness is essential in the digital age - How to communicate across generations and cultures - The emotional toll of constant connection—and how to manage it - What it really takes to lead, connect, and express yourself online with empathy and clarity If you’ve ever struggled to get your message across—or just want to be a better communicator in life and leadership—this one’s for you. Mentioned in this episode: Tara Renze: https://www.tararenze.com/ The Step One Method: https://kellyleereeves.my.canva.site/step-one-method  Let’s Connect! Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/kellylreeves/ Follow me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KellyLeeReeves   SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more people who need to hear it most. Thanks for tuning in to The Confidence Academy! See you next week! Disclaimer: The Confidence Academy and content posted by Kelly Reeves are presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes and reflect Kelly’s and her guests’ personal knowledge, experiences, and opinions. The content included in this podcast is not intended as a substitute for the advice of an accountant, financial advisor, physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified medical or financial professional, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any financial, physical, or mental health concerns, please seek the immediate assistance of a healthcare or financial professional. Get full access to The Unfiltered Founder at thekellyreeves.substack.com/subscribe

    Ep. 21 The Real Cost of Miscommunication: Emotional Intelligence in the Digital Age with Tara Renze

  7. 29/07/2025

    Ep. 20 Can You Really Rewire Your Mind?

    Today’s episode is one that’s going to hit home for a lot of us. We’re diving deep into something that affects every single decision we make, whether we realize it or not: Subconscious programming. So what does that actually mean? My guest today is Jenn Johnson, founder of The Saltwater Effect, and certified in Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT tapping), Reiki Master Teacher, and Clinical Hypnotherapy.  Jenn blends subconscious healing tools like hypnosis and EFT tapping with a grounded, soulful approach to personal growth.  Today, we're talking about the beliefs, patterns, and emotional wiring that were shaped in childhood—and how they quietly follow us into adulthood, into our relationships, our finances, our self-worth, and even how we show up in business or leadership. If you've been wondering: Why do I keep sabotaging my success? Why does money feel so hard? Why do I keep attracting the same kind of partner—or client—or problem? These patterns aren’t random. They’re rooted in the stories your subconscious mind was told long ago—and the good news? Those stories can be rewritten. In this episode, we’ll unpack: - What subconscious reprogramming actually is (and what it’s not) - How your early experiences silently shape your adult behavior - And practical ways to start shifting those patterns—so you can take back control of your story and your future If you’ve ever felt like something invisible is holding you back—this episode is your turning point. Mentioned in this episode: The Saltwater Effect: https://www.thesaltwatereffect.com/ Let’s Connect! Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/kellylreeves/ Follow me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KellyLeeReeves   SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more people who need to hear it most. Thanks for tuning in to The Confidence Academy! See you next week! Disclaimer: The Confidence Academy and content posted by Kelly Reeves are presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes and reflect Kelly’s and her guests’ personal knowledge, experiences, and opinions. The content included in this podcast is not intended as a substitute for the advice of an accountant, financial advisor, physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified medical or financial professional, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any financial, physical, or mental health concerns, please seek the immediate assistance of a healthcare or financial professional. Get full access to The Unfiltered Founder at thekellyreeves.substack.com/subscribe

    Ep. 20 Can You Really Rewire Your Mind?

  8. 22/07/2025

    Ep. 19 The REAL Truth About Money & Getting Out of Debt

    Do you feel safe with money? Most of us don't.  We're afraid it'll leave us, that there is never enough of it, or that the Men in Black will show up at our doorstep and drag us away if we can't pay our bills on time. Money trauma is real! There was a time when I was flat broke, had to declare bankruptcy, and was almost $150K in debt! I was absolutely terrified, ashamed, and felt there was no way out!  But it wasn't until I faced those fears that I could actually do something about it. But here's the truth I didn't realize at the time: I was not alone. We avoid the numbers. We panic at the unexpected. We feel shame for all of the money mistakes and not “doing it right” when we had the chance. Sound familiar?  But what if the real deeper issue isn’t about how much money you make, budgeting, and spreadsheets? In today's episode of The Confidence Academy, I sit down with financial coach, Air Force veteran, and creator of The Paycheck Shift, Teanna Lambert, to discuss the emotional and psychological aspects of money—the part no spreadsheet or budgeting app can address. Teanna brings over 15 years of coaching and leadership experience—plus her own journey climbing out of six figures of debt herself- to help you rewrite your money story with confidence, clarity, and grace. We cover: The dirty “B” word that keeps so many people stuck (and it’s not what you think)How to stop avoiding your financial issues and start facing them with confidenceWhat financial infidelity is—and why it’s more common than you thinkWe also talk about the hidden shame so many carry about money (and how to let it go) and how to go from panic to peace without overhauling your entire life If you’ve ever felt like you’re “bad with money” (I have!) or stuck in survival mode, living paycheck to paycheck, and buried in debt -  no matter how much you earn, this episode is for you. Mentioned in this episode: Teanna Lambert: https://.teannalambert.com Free 1:1 Strategy Session: https://calendly.com/teannalambertcoaching/consult Instagram: https://instagram.com/teanna_lambert_coaching  “The Total Money Makeover” by Dave Ramsey Let’s Connect! Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/kellylreeves/ Follow me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KellyLeeReeves  SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more people who need to hear it most. Thanks for tuning in to The Confidence Academy! See you next week! Disclaimer: The Confidence Academy and content posted by Kelly Reeves are presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes and reflect Kelly’s and her guests’ personal knowledge, experiences, and opinions. The content included in this podcast is not intended as a substitute for the advice of an accountant, financial advisor, physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified medical or financial professional, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any financial, physical, or mental health concerns, please seek the immediate assistance of a healthcare or financial professional. Get full access to The Unfiltered Founder at thekellyreeves.substack.com/subscribe

    Ep. 19 The REAL Truth About Money & Getting Out of Debt
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About

Welcome to The Unfiltered Founder (formerly The Confidence Academy), the podcast for founders, entrepreneurs, and business owners who want to grow their business without the guru BS. Each week, you'll get unfiltered conversations, practical strategies, and real-world insights on what's blocking your growth—and what to do about it. Each episode is designed to challenge your thinking, simplify what feels complicated, and help you make smarter decisions that move your business forward. thekellyreeves.substack.com

Information

  • Creator
    Kelly Reeves
  • Episodes
    27
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © KLR Communications, LLC
  • Show Website
    The Unfiltered Founder