Be Sweet Ya'll

Karen Smith

Join Karen Key-Smith to grow mind, body and spirit so that we can in turn go out and make the world a brighter and sweeter place. Every episode, Karen shares original positive affirmations, stories, and tips to help you live a happier life. Be sweet and remember to follow the podcast to hear new episodes every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday.

  1. Why the Only Person You Can Save Is Yourself

    4d ago

    Why the Only Person You Can Save Is Yourself

    Y'all, we recorded this one in May for Mental Health Awareness Month, but this conversation is so good it will carry you well into June  and honestly, straight through the rest of the year. I sat down with one of my most favorite precious humans on this planet, my sweet friend Brandy Haiman, a licensed therapist and social worker with nearly 30 years of experience.  She is everything: compassionate, kind, empathetic, a free thinker, and a true champion of the underdog.  Brandy opens up about the deeply personal experiences that led her to the therapy profession and y'all, it is a good one. We talk about what therapy has looked like over nearly three decades, why our kids are struggling more than ever with loneliness, and why going to therapy before you hit rock bottom is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself. We also get into the Gottman Method, brand-new brain treatments like neurofeedback and Spravato, and why working on your own sweet self is the single most powerful thing you can do!! Even if nobody around you is ready to do the same.We laugh, we get real, and we cover just about everything!!! So friends if  you are dealing with something heavy or just want to love the people in your life a little deeper, this episode is for you. About Brandy Haiman: Brandy Haiman is a licensed therapist and social worker with nearly 30 years of experience helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life's hardest moments. Known for her warmth, non-judgment, and deep compassion, Brandy has built a practice where people feel truly understood. She is trained in the Gottman Method for couples therapy and specializes in anxiety, depression, people-pleasing, and relationship dynamics. Reach out to Brandy here: https://brandyhaiman.com Episode Highlights: [01:40] Why Brandy Became a Therapist [06:00] What Has Changed in Therapy Over 30 Years  [08:30] The Shift: People Going to Therapy Before the Crisis Hits [11:20] People-Pleasing, Codependency & Growing Up in an Alcoholic Home [16:20] The Gottman Method [22:00] What to Do When Your Partner Refuses to Go to Therapy [28:30] What NOT to Say When Someone You Love Is in Recovery [32:00] The Biggest Misconception About Depression [42:00] A Nation That Needs Each Other Big Thanks To Our Sponsors: Buffalo Rock Pepsi:https://www.buffalorock.com/locations/panama-city Holiday Beach Mechanical: https://www.holidaybeachmechanical.com Team Patriot LLC: https://teampatriotllc.com Amore Boutique: https://amorboutiquepc.com Gypsy Willow:https://gypsywillowretail.com Hue Salon: www.huesalonandboutique.com Ferrucci Ristorante: https://ferruccipc.com Let's Stay Connected! Follow along @MyHappyAssLife on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, and YouTube so you never miss an episode. Presented by ADF Media Be sweet, y'all!

    41 min
  2. My Favorite Day

    May 25

    My Favorite Day

    Sometimes, we get so scattered by the craziness of life, the never-ending projects, and the habit of saying "yes" to everyone  we miss the beautiful masterpiece God has already put right in front of us!!! This week, I’m coming to you with a pop-up episode recorded on May 15th my wedding anniversary to my beloved late husband, Hugh F. Smith. Today, I open my heart to share the story of how Hugh walked into my life after a deeply painful first marriage that left me feeling broke, rejected, and unworthy. Hugh taught me what it means to be truly respected, celebrated, and loved just for being me!!!Today is all about honoring his memory, celebrating the incredible blessings in our family, and learning to slow down long enough to see the how God is working on in our lives. Episode Highlights: [00:41] Anniversary reflections [01:39] Beach walk and hospital memories [03:17] Realizing you may already be where you hoped to be [05:09] Lessons from a first marriage [07:39] Meeting Hugh Smith [08:54] Love, healing, and growing together [12:12] The wedding and the life we built [16:15] Courage and stepping into the next chapter [19:53] Closing gratitude  Special Thanks to Our Sponsors Buffalo Rock Pepsi www.buffalorock.com Gypsy Willow https://gypsywillowretail.com Hue Salon https://www.huesalonandboutique.com Holiday Beach Mechanical www.holidaybeachmechanical.com Let’s Stay Connected!Follow along @MyHappyAssLife on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, and YouTube so you never miss an episode.Presented by ADF MediaBe sweet, y’all!

    21 min
  3. Healing Through Service & Community With Ronnie Grissett

    May 18

    Healing Through Service & Community With Ronnie Grissett

    When service becomes the foundation of your life, the structure you build is unshakable. This week, I’m sitting down with Ronnie Grissett, owner of Team Patriot Home Stewardship Services and a medically retired Army veteran. Ronnie  joins me for a conversation that spans from construction mission fields in Honduras and Uganda to the importance of proactive home maintenance right here in Bay County. Ronnie shares his incredible journey of recovery following a traumatic brain injury in 2020, exploring how that experience deepened his appreciation for health and his commitment to helping others. He also gives us an insightful look into his new his innovative "Home Stewardship" program. I’ve dubbed Ronnie as my "rent-a-husband" service and during our conversation we discuss why taking care of your physical home is just as vital as maintaining your mental health. Episode Highlights: [00:30] Introducing Ronnie Grissett: Guest and New Sponsor [01:00] The Joys (and Chaos) of Being a Sports Dad [03:00] Mission Work: From Honduras to Uganda [05:30] Overcoming a Traumatic Brain Injury [07:00] Finding Perspective After Hurricane Michael and Injury [08:30] The Science of Service: Why Helping Others Helps You [11:00] What is Team Patriot Home Stewardship Services? [13:00] Proactive Maintenance vs. Home Warranties [16:30] Why Ronnie Hires Partners with a Servant’s Heart [20:00] The #1 Insurance Claim: Leaking Refrigerator Lines [22:00] Life in South Fort and the Anti-HOA Lifestyle [24:30] Mental Health Rituals: Reading, Prayer, and Connection [29:00] The Shared Love for Pepsi Cherry Special Thanks to Our Sponsors: Buffalo Rock Pepsi www.buffalorock.com Team Patriot Home Stewardship Services www.teampatriotllc.com Holiday Beach Mechanical www.holidaybeachmechanical.com Amor Boutique https://amorboutiquepc.com Gypsy Willow https://gypsywillowretail.com Let’s Stay Connected!Follow along @BeSweetya'll on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, and YouTube so you never miss an episode. Presented by ADF MediaBe sweet, y’all!

    30 min
  4. Why Gen Z is Leading the Way in Mental Health

    May 11

    Why Gen Z is Leading the Way in Mental Health

    It’s  mental health awareness month and today I’m reflecting on how much has changed... I can remember when I was younger, if you needed to go to therapy, it was almost a secret. We were surrounded by shame, feeling like we were defective if we couldn’t handle it all on our own. But now, things have shifted, and we are finally dropping that stigma thanks to the brave young people in our lives who have embraced it.Today I’m joined by my precious grandchild, JJ, who is truly wise beyond their years, to talk about their mental health journey. JJ shares their experience growing up in the wake of family addiction and loss, and how they are choosing to break the cycle. This episode is for anyone who needs a reminder that it’s okay to not be okay, and that there is so much power in simply being honest about our struggles. Episode Highlights Special Thanks to My Precious Sponsors!!! Buffalo Rock Pepsi: www.buffalorock.com Holiday Beach Mechanical: www.holidaybeachmechanical.com Amor Boutique: https://amorboutiquepc.com Team Patriot: www.teampatriotllc.com Somethin's Cookin' Downtown: www.somethinscookin.com Ferrucci Ristorante: www.ferruccipc.com Hue Salon: https://www.huesalonandboutique.com Minutes & Miles: https://minutesandmiles.com Gypsy Wllow: https://gypsywillowretail.com Bay Tax: www.bay.tax/bay-intro-to-the-firm Shorehouse Furniture: https://shorehousefurniture.com Episode Highlights:  [01:12] Mental Health Month and Gen Z openness [03:43] Losing Mom and finding strength [07:16] Therapy tools for anxiety and ADHD [08:44] Wellness habits through art, music, and theater [10:20] Why we chose homeschooling [13:20] Sponsor shoutouts and field trip plans [15:11] Why therapy matters [15:45] Gender differences and emotions [20:27] Breaking unhealthy family cycles [23:00] Helping friends navigate hard seasons [24:45] Self-improvement and health goals [25:56] Independence, growth, and hope Let’s Stay Connected!Follow along on social media @BeSweetYall and don’t forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, and YouTube so you never miss an episode.🎙 Presented by ADF MediaBe sweet, y’all 💛

    28 min
  5. Season Recap: The Courage to Change

    May 6

    Season Recap: The Courage to Change

    What if the secret to a truly happy life... is being sweet enough to release what isn't working?  Y’all, this episode is a big one. It’s the end of our seventh season, and while this season was long my heart is just full! I have something else I’d like to share with you…We are closing the chapter on My Happy Ass Life and adopting a new name and it’s Be Sweet, Y’all. I’ll be honest with you I ran into some friction with the old name. Between social media algorithms blocking the word "a$$" and some folks being too shy to even say it, I realized the name was creating a wall where I wanted to build a bridge. I’ll always be a happy ass at heart, but we’ve evolved and I’m grateful!!!! Today I’m looking back at the incredible people who who joined us for this season Starting with  my daughter Britt’s wisdom on mental health to the hilarious and energy of Lacey Counts, we’re recapping the lessons I never want to forget!!! Thank you so much to everyone for supporting me, loving me and sharing your time with me!!! Be sweet ya’ll!  Episode Highlights [01:00] Why we are becoming Be Sweet, Y'all. [04:45] Britt Matthews: Internal dialogues, soundtracks, and finding our similarities. [07:15] Lacey Maxwell & Christy Claunch: Embracing uniqueness and laughing at our "quirky" sides. [09:02] Daniel Pratt: The balance between artistry and entrepreneurship. [10:18] Jade Patronis: The simple, powerful gift of being delighted to see someone. [11:35] Mayor Alan Branch: Leadership driven by a deep love for community. [12:44] Dan Hines: The courage to reinvent yourself (and walking on fire!). [15:20] Becca Harden: Using brilliance to make everyone else feel worthy. [16:55] Candy Gardner Woods: Rising above a tumultuous upbringing to find your voice. [18:25] Maurice Hunter: The self-love project and writing notes to the future. [19:42] Earl Mooring: Learning to work within your "areas of giftedness." [21:18] Angela from Habitat for Humanity [23:05] A Personal Testimony: How books saved a lonely 10-year-old girl in an alcoholic home. [28:15] A Special Thank You: Remembering the legacy of Hugh Smith. Special Thanks to Our Sponsors Buffalo Rock Pepsi: buffalorock.com Holiday Beach Mechanical: holidaybeachmechanical.com Elysian Med Spa: https://elysianpcb.com Bay Tax Solutions: https://www.bay.tax Minutes & Miles: minutesandmiles.com Gypsy Willow: https://gypsywillowretail.com Ferrucci Ristorante:https://ferruccipc.com/ Amor Boutique: https://amorboutiquepc.com Lending Hand Mortgage (Kevin Kennerson):https://lhmtg.com/ Shore House Furniture: shorehousefurniture.com Hue Salon: https://www.huesalonandboutique.com/#!/Home Can’t Hide Pretty: www.canthidepretty.com American Home Shield: https://www.ahs.com/ Follow along as we transition to our new home! You can find us on social media @BeSweetYall (formerly @MyHappyAssLife). Don’t forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube so you’re ready for the new season!🎙 Presented by ADF MediaBe sweet, y’all! 💕

    31 min
  6. Taking The Long Way Around

    Apr 27

    Taking The Long Way Around

    I just have to tell you how much I adore Sue Monk Kidd’s book, When the Heart Waits! I've read it four times (and counting!) because it holds the secret to one of the hardest lessons I've ever had to learn: how to simply slow down. Today I share how I’m actively working to build quiet space and find "white space" in my life. I also introduce the Magic Wand Theory. This concept challenges us to drop our logical thoughts, tap into our spirit, and dream about what is truly possible for our business and life, encouraging us to rest in possibility to listen to God’s beautiful, still, quiet voice. Episode Highlights: [00:31] Choosing to slow down and create space [02:48] Butterflies, books, and quiet reflection [03:16] The tadpole story and taking the long way [06:12] Life’s harder lessons and perspective shifts [08:20] Hugh, Al-Anon, and releasing over-responsibility [10:21] The power of waiting and stillness [11:39] The “magic wand” exercise: thinking in possibility [14:59] Sponsors and gratitude [16:07] Rebrand update and naming challenges [16:47] Closing affirmation  Links & Resources: When the Heart Waits by Sue Monk Kidd: https://www.amazon.com/When-Heart-Waits-Spiritual-Direction/dp/0061144894 Special Thanks to Our Sponsors Buffalo Rock Pepsi https://www.buffalorock.com Holiday Beach Mechanical https://holidaybeachmechanical.com Shore House Furniture https://shorehousefurniture.com Hue Salon: huesalonandboutique.com Team Patriot: https://teampatriotllc.com Ferrucci Ristorante: https://ferruccipc.com Let’s Stay Connected!Follow along @MyHappyAssLife on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, and YouTube so you never miss an episode. Get Karen’s Love Notes at www.myhappyasslife.com Presented by ADF Media Be sweet, y’all!

    18 min
  7. How Faith Guided Her Next Step featuring Jade Patronis

    Apr 22 ·  Bonus

    How Faith Guided Her Next Step featuring Jade Patronis

    What if the secret to a happy life isn't just about the highlight reel, but about the depth you build during the "late bloomer" seasons? This week, I am bringing you a very special Happy Ass Encore episode because y'all loved her so much the first time, and she is just too precious not to share again. I’m sitting down with one of my happiest, most energetic friends, the "Lipstick Diva" herself, Jade Patronis Jade opens up about her journey of reinvention at age 40 moving from being a stay-at-home mom to launching a lipstick line. We swap stories about our shared "prissy girl" love for looking adorable (even just for ourselves!), the legacy of the women who came before us, and why we are both choosing to kick aging’s butt every single day. From her days traveling the world with the USO to the spiritual discipline of waking up with a "thank you" on her lips, Jade reminds us that while beauty might only last three days, the way you treat people lasts a lifetime. This episode is a soulful reminder that God has already paid it all...all we have to do is show up and be exactly who He created us to be. Episode Highlights [1:00] Energy Matching: Karen and Jade discuss being kindred, high-energy spirits. [1:30] Adjective Affirmations: The power of the words we use to describe those we love. [3:00] Reclaiming Identity: Jade’s journey from "Mommy full-time" to reinventing herself at 40. [4:00] The Niche: How selling "Steak, Lobster, and Lipstick" led to a nationwide business. [5:00] Prissy and Proud: Why looking cute is a service to yourself and your legacy. [6:00] The Season of Waiting: Trusting God’s timing when big doors start to open. [8:00] Opposites Attract: How Karen and Jade’s husbands handle their "crazy" energy. [11:00] Live and Let Live: Learning the Serenity Prayer through an alcoholic upbringing. [12:30] Depth in the Dark: A moving story about nurse Karen and a family tragedy. [13:30] Beauty "Tune-ups": Honesty about Botox, filler, and aging gracefully. [15:30] Captain Anderson’s: The 60-year legacy of a local landmark and its loyal staff. [22:00] The Pageant Sport: How beauty pageants paid for college and built inner depth. [27:30] Small Town Roots: Discovering a shared history in Enterprise and Slocum. [32:30] The Goodness of God: A miraculous story of recovery and the power of prayer. [36:00] The Stop Sign Habit: Using daily cues for positive affirmations. [38:00] Protecting Your Peace: Setting boundaries and avoiding the "lure of everything". [42:30] Empty Cups: Admitting the struggle of being a people-pleaser in a busy world. [48:30] Best for the Rest: A shoutout to the best King Cake and local art Special Thanks to Our Sponsors Buffalo Rock Pepsi  https://www.buffalorock.com Holiday Beach Mechanical  https://holidaybeachmechanical.com Bay Tax Solution  https://bay.tax Elysian Med Spa  https://elysianmedspa.com Hue Salon and Boutique  https://www.huesalonandboutique.com Shore House Furniture  https://shorehousefurniture.com About Jade Patronis:  Jade is the founder of Lipstick Diva, a beauty brand rooted in color, confidence, and American-made quality. Raised in her mother’s beauty shop and seasoned by a career in pharmaceutical sales, Jade found her niche by combining her love for aesthetics with a sharp business mind. A Troy University graduate and a former USO performer, she views life as a "sport" where authenticity and heart are the real trophies. Jade is a devoted wife, mother, and Jesus-follower who believes in the power of prayer and the importance of never growing up. Let’s Stay Connected! Follow along @MyHappyAssLife on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, and YouTube so you never miss an episode. Get Karen’s Love Notes at www.myhappyasslife.com Presented by ADF Media Be sweet, y’all!

    50 min
  8. Tuning Into Your Inner Soundtracks With Britt Matthews

    Apr 13

    Tuning Into Your Inner Soundtracks With Britt Matthews

    What if the messages playing in your head were actually holding you back from the life you were meant to live? Today I am joined in the studio by my effervescent and darling daughter, Britt, for a conversation that is as deep as it is spicy. Today we’re talking about soundtracks, which are the internal voices and repetitive thoughts that shape our reality. Inspired by the work of Jon Acuff, we explore how to identify the broken records of overthinking and replace them with messages that are much more aligned with our values and are more positive.  We get vulnerable about our own current soundtracks. Britt shares her journey of moving away from hustling for self worth and embracing the mantra that she deserves a love she does not have to chase. Meanwhile, I open up about my people pleasing recovery and the realization that while I can do many things, my energy is expensive and I should focus on the things I am truly great at. If you are struggling with a stuck thought or just need a little spark to get your fire going we’re here to remind you that you have the power to turn down the volume on negativity and curate a sound track that serves you. Episode Highlights [00:01] Studio chaos: Who let the dogs out and why we do not need an agenda. [00:02] The poetry of joy: Discussing Joyce Sullivan and why joy is not a trick. [00:04] Jon Acuff and Soundtracks: Why we love his edgy and accessible take on mindset. [00:05] Fearlessly and wonderfully made: The soundtrack that started before Britt was born. [00:07] Some is better than none: Breaking the lie that there is not enough time. [00:08] Good is good enough: Utilizing Pareto’s Principle in business and life. [00:10] Sponsor Break: Love for Buffalo Rock Pepsi and Holiday Beach Mechanical. [00:11] Nana's legacy: Fashion, ear bobs, and the gift of being a biggest fan. [00:15] Staying in your lane: Why you should not try to be great at everything. [00:16] Energy is expensive: Taking a cue from Taylor Swift on protecting your peace. [00:20] Turning down the dial: Replacing negative tapes with coping actions like exercise and lists. [00:26] The People Pleasing Trap: Why Karen signed up for Orange Theory. [00:32] Relationships and Affirmations: Writing what you need to hear in the moment. [00:35] The Burger King Blessing: How a little spark of energy can change someone's day. [00:38] Curiosity over Fear: Britt’s parting wisdom on the inner artist and being a maker. Special Thanks to Our Sponsors Buffalo Rock Pepsi :www.buffalrock.com Holiday Beach Mechanical:https://holidaybeachmechanical.com Hue Salon and Boutique: https://www.huesalonandboutique.com Amor Boutique: https://amorboutiquepc.com Bay Tax Solution: https://bay.tax Elysian Med Spa: https://elysianmedspa.com Ferrucci Ristorante: https://ferruccipc.com About Britt Britt is the friend with the messy car, a growing hat collection, and a deep belief that it is never too late to become who you are supposed to be. As a musician and poet, she writes for women in the thick of it those navigating divorce, career pivots, empty nests, and the beautiful chaos of reinvention. Her words are for anyone who is tired of pretending they have it all together. Through her poetry and prose, Britt advocates for choosing curiosity over fear and reclaiming the creative maker within us. www.BrittMatthews.com  Let’s Stay Connected! Follow along @MyHappyAssLife on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, iHeartRadio, and YouTube so you never miss an episode. Get Karen’s Love Notes at www.myhappyasslife.com Presented by ADF Media Be sweet, y’all!

    36 min

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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

Join Karen Key-Smith to grow mind, body and spirit so that we can in turn go out and make the world a brighter and sweeter place. Every episode, Karen shares original positive affirmations, stories, and tips to help you live a happier life. Be sweet and remember to follow the podcast to hear new episodes every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday.