Conversations on the Rocks

Kristen Daukas
  • 5.0 (4)
  • SOCIETY & CULTURE
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to a podcast where it's all about the guest with. your host, Kristen Daukas! Tune in for real folks sharing their incredible tales, covering everything from hilarious to heartwarming moments, and maybe a mix of both! Each episode promises a fresh lesson to widen your horizons, spark new ideas, and leave you smiling. So, grab your go-to drink and join us for some good vibes and great chats!

  1. 09/17/2024

    Paws for Thought: The Difference Between Service, Therapy, and Emotional Support Animals

    Send us Fan Mail Geralyn Kelly is back and this time, we’re talking about working dogs - from the friendly therapy pups that bring joy to nursing home residents, to the highly trained service animals that transform the lives of their owners. Geralyn discusses the intricate differences between these specialized canines and the common misconceptions that often surround them. As we explore the rigorous training and certification processes required for true service and therapy dogs, you'll be amazed by the dedication and skill these remarkable animals possess. We also shed light on the growing problem of 'fake' service dogs and the heartbreaking consequences this abuse of the system has led to for those who genuinely rely on these working companions. This understanding will help us all appreciate the importance of respecting the roles of these dogs. You’ll learn to spot the difference between a working dog and a pet masquerading as one. By understanding the rights and responsibilities of these canine heroes, you'll be better equipped to respect their important roles and avoid inadvertently undermining their vital services. Join us as we celebrate the unsung heroes of the dog world and learn how we can all do our part to support them. About Geralyn: Geralyn Kelly has been working with dogs since 2002. She began in a daycare/kennel environment where she gained valuable firsthand knowledge about canine behavior. In 2004, after two years at the daycare/kennel Geralyn began her training career and has never looked back!  She began training at a large corporate pet store chain where she learned everything from Ethology, the scientific study of animal behavior, to Learning Theory, understanding how dogs learn. The core of Geralyn’s belief is that to be a great dog trainer, you must know everything about them from their origins, background, and recent changes in breeds and how their minds work.  To expand her education she has attended seminars, workshops, conferences and have met some of the greats like Ian Dunbar, Sophia Yin, Victoria Stillwell and Suzanne Hetts. After three years in the corporate world, Geralyn left the pet store chain to pursue a career with a private kennel.  Here, she developed the entire training program for this kennel from the ground up where she trained Obedience, Agility and Flyball!  In 2008 Geralyn relocated to Winston-Salem and spent four more years working for a corporate pet store chain as Store Trainer and Area Trainer where she not only held many classes in store, she trained numerous other trainers who have gone on to have successful training careers.  During this assignment she trained dogs in Obedience and Rally.   In December 2012, Geralyn decided she wanted to reach more animals and work more closely with their human handlers and rescue groups, so she opened her own training center, Elite Canine!  Connect with Geralyn Web: https://elitecanine.net/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elitecaninetraining/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elitecaninews/ Support the show Interested in possibly being a guest on the show? Click the link to get started! https://forms.gle/V1yGLH9W9Ck2m4TP7 Let's Connect! Web Instagram Facebook TikTok

    34 min

  2. 09/10/2024

    Chasing Normal: An Intimate Look at Surviving Abuse and Finding Purpose

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, I'm chatting with author Lisa Gerardy about her upcoming memoir, "Chasing Normal." Together, we uncover her journey of courage and resilience as she bravely shares her childhood experiences of sexual abuse. This honest conversation reveals the strength it took to write and share her story with the world. We discuss Lisa's complex relationship with her mother, who, despite her love, couldn't protect her from the abuse. We explore the lasting impact of this trauma on Lisa's life and relationships and acknowledge the harmful societal stigmas and victim-blaming attitudes she's encountered. Her journey to break free from these patterns is both inspiring and empowering. Remarkably, Lisa used humor as a coping mechanism, a testament to the strength of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable trauma. "Chasing Normal" looks at one woman's extraordinary journey to reclaim her story and redefine her sense of normalcy. Join us as we explore the complexities of trauma, survival, and the incredible power of the human spirit. Lisa Gerardy is a proud member of the gig economy, teaching college writing at three universities online. When she is not trying to detect AI and correct apostrophe errors, she is sharing her cringe-worthy childhood with complete strangers online. Her soon-to-be-published memoir is called Chasing Normal: Finding Love After Surviving Physical and Emotional Abuse. Lisa lives in Phoenix with her long-suffering husband and cherishes visits from her son who lives too far away. She accepts love, slobber, and many bruises from her Great Danes in her spare time.  https://lisagerardy.substack.com/ https://lisagerardywriter.com/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100004146033472 https://www.instagram.com/chasingnormal51/ Support the show Interested in possibly being a guest on the show? Click the link to get started! https://forms.gle/V1yGLH9W9Ck2m4TP7 Let's Connect! Web Instagram Facebook TikTok

    33 min

  3. 09/03/2024

    Glitter, Grit, and Growth: A "Hey, Girl" Story

    Send us Fan Mail Caroline Downing shares her journey of navigating life in Washington, D.C., including her experiences with roommates, her whirlwind marriage and divorce, and the lessons she's learned along the way. Caroline's openness about the challenges she faced in her marriage and the aftermath of her divorce is both heartbreaking and empowering. She reflects on the societal pressures she felt to settle down, as well as the importance of being true to oneself and not compromising on what one deserves in a relationship. Caroline's story serves as a powerful reminder that sometimes the most difficult experiences can lead to the greatest personal growth. Throughout the conversation, Caroline's passion for Taylor Swift's music and her creative divorce photo shoot showcases her resilience and ability to find joy and self-expression even during difficult times. Our discussion of the potential impact of a Taylor Swift endorsement for Kamala Harris further highlights Caroline's engagement with current events and her willingness to use her voice to make a difference. Born and raised in DC, Caroline has always been drawn to storytelling—though the dream of becoming a documentary filmmaker faded when she realized it wasn't exactly lucrative. She's got a fun idea for a novel (or maybe a memoir) brewing. After earning her business degree from Catholic University and quitting what she once thought was her dream job, Caroline now finds herself working in HR for a well-known restaurant—though she's keeping the name under wraps for now. twitter/instagram/tiktok: @ thecarolove the website: https://thecarolove.com/ Support the show Interested in possibly being a guest on the show? Click the link to get started! https://forms.gle/V1yGLH9W9Ck2m4TP7 Let's Connect! Web Instagram Facebook TikTok

    35 min

  4. 08/27/2024

    From Hashtags to High Kicks: Your Guide to Living Out Loud

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, I chat with Brittany Winfield, a millennial social media manager and solopreneur hailing from the wilds of Vermont. Brittany gives us the lowdown on her journey from dabbling in social media as a teen to running the show at Winfield Creative Agency. What really makes Brittany stand out, besides her knack for hashtags, is her love for comedy and performance. When she's not managing social media, she's mixing up drinks as a bartender and strutting her stuff with the comedic burlesque troupe "T**s ‘n’ Bits." Brittany talks about the exhilarating experience of performing on stage, where she uses humor to connect with the audience and embrace her body. This unique gig has boosted her confidence and sharpened her skills as a public speaker, which she brings to her social media workshops and keynotes. During our conversation, Brittany and I discussed the importance of keeping it real in today’s digital world. She discusses using tools like speak-to-text to capture her authentic voice rather than striving for picture-perfect posts. We both agree that letting go of perfection and adding a dash of playfulness to social media can help entrepreneurs stand out and truly connect with their audience. About Brittany:  Meet Brittany Winfield, social media manager and mentor, and owner of The Winfield Creative, a Vermont-based digital marketing agency. When she's not building her women and community-focused business, Brittany enjoys making people laugh while taking her clothes off as a performer at the Vermont Comedy Club. Support the show Interested in possibly being a guest on the show? Click the link to get started! https://forms.gle/V1yGLH9W9Ck2m4TP7 Let's Connect! Web Instagram Facebook TikTok

    40 min

  5. 08/20/2024

    Pronouns and Pours: Uncorking Gen Z's Voice on LGBTQ Representation

    Send us Fan Mail This week, we dig into LGBTQ+ representation in media from the Gen Z perspective. I'm joined by guest Ariana "Ari" Mrdjenovich as we explore progress, challenges, and the future of inclusive storytelling. Ari, a 25-year-old Gen Z member, shares personal experiences and perspectives on the importance of diverse characters and relationships in TV, movies, and media. The conversation includes various examples, such as shows like Pose, Sense8, Schitt's Creek, and Bridgerton. It discusses the impact of positive and problematic tropes, highlighting the necessity for authentic LGBTQ+ characters that go beyond stereotypes. The discussion also addresses the pushback against increased representation and the significance of media reflecting the diversity within the LGBTQ+ community.  Throughout the episode, insightful commentary is provided on the influence of representation in shaping societal attitudes and increasing visibility for marginalized groups. Support the show Interested in possibly being a guest on the show? Click the link to get started! https://forms.gle/V1yGLH9W9Ck2m4TP7 Let's Connect! Web Instagram Facebook TikTok

    41 min

  6. 08/13/2024

    Swiping Right on Life: Gen Z Perspectives

    Send us Fan Mail This week’s episode offers a refreshingly candid and insightful look into the life of a young Zoomer (Gen Z), you get to meet and listen to my oldest daughter, Mackenzie, as she navigates the challenges and joys of living in the bustling city of Washington, D.C. Kristen Daukas, Mackenzie's mother and the host of the podcast, skillfully guides the conversation, exploring topics ranging from the financial realities of homeownership for Gen Z, to the social media-driven pressures of modern relationships and celebrations. Throughout the discussion, Mackenzie's perspective shines through as she shares her experiences with the demands of her career, the camaraderie of her close-knit group of friends, and the bittersweet feelings of leaving her hometown behind. Kristen's empathetic approach and genuine interest in understanding her daughter's generation create a warm and engaging dialogue, inviting listeners to gain a deeper appreciation for the unique perspectives and experiences of young adults today.  The episode serves as a testament to the power of open and honest communication between generations and the importance of embracing the diverse paths that define the modern coming-of-age journey. By doing so, we can all gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for each generation's unique experiences and perspectives. Support the show Interested in possibly being a guest on the show? Click the link to get started! https://forms.gle/V1yGLH9W9Ck2m4TP7 Let's Connect! Web Instagram Facebook TikTok

    40 min

  7. 07/30/2024

    On Politics and Community: An Unvarnished Take on the Current Landscape

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode, I am so excited to welcome my longtime bestie and political confidante, Jennifer Filipowski, for a discussion about the current state of American politics. Having shared experiences over the past three decades, we dig into the political landscape, sharing our perspectives and concerns about the future. We discussed the recent Republican National Convention (one of us watched some of it, the other none of it). The conversation then shifts to the historic nomination of Kamala Harris as the Democratic vice presidential candidate, where we consider our hopes, fears, and reservations about a potential Harris presidency. Throughout the discussion, we address important topics such as the challenges of getting people engaged in politics, the crucial role of party involvement, and the implications of the Heritage Foundation's "Project 2025" plan.  About Jennifer: Jennifer Filipowski is a dedicated community leader and former executive with a rich background in both corporate and volunteer sectors. Before retiring, Jennifer served as the Executive Vice President of marketing for a global technology company, where she honed her leadership and strategic skills. Her career achievements are marked by her ability to drive innovative marketing initiatives and foster significant growth within her organization. Since retiring, Jennifer has channeled her energy into volunteerism, particularly in the realms of politics and the arts. She currently serves as the Chair of her county Democratic Party and the Credentials Chair for the state Party. Her commitment to civic engagement is evident through her organization of extensive canvassing, phone banking, and postcard writing campaigns, reaching thousands of individuals. In addition to her political involvement, Jennifer is a partner at a local arts non-profit, producing events that not only celebrate the arts but also contribute to local economic development. Jennifer’s combined experience in corporate leadership and volunteer dedication makes her a dynamic and influential figure in her community, championing both political engagement and cultural enrichment. Support the show Interested in possibly being a guest on the show? Click the link to get started! https://forms.gle/V1yGLH9W9Ck2m4TP7 Let's Connect! Web Instagram Facebook TikTok

    39 min

  8. 07/23/2024

    Fire and Ice: Blanca Cobb’s Guide to Arguing Less and Loving More

    Send us Fan Mail This week, Blanca Cobb, an internationally recognized body language expert and psychologist, and I discussed the role of communication and body language in relationships. Blanca explained why people often struggle to express their emotions and how misinterpreting body language can lead to conflicts. The key points were emotional safety and open dialogue. We also discussed the differences in communication styles in multicultural relationships. Blanca introduced the "Oreo cookie approach" for difficult conversations, which involves starting and ending with positives and addressing the issue in the middle. We touched on the challenges of virtual communication and emphasized the importance of face-to-face interactions for serious discussions. Blanca shared details about her upcoming projects, including an online course to improve communication skills and prevent arguments and a concierge coaching service for on-demand relationship advice. She highlighted the importance of observing a partner's baseline behavior and asking non-threatening questions to understand their emotions. This episode offers practical tips and strategies for improving communication and building stronger relationships. About Blanca: Blanca Cobb is an internationally recognized body language expert who gives life advice for everything from family, relationships, and work. Think of a modern-day Dear Abby with a twist of Dr. Phil. Blanca has had 2000+ TV appearances such as the Steve Harvey Show, TODAY Show, Megyn Kelly TODAY, Dr. Oz, Dr. Drew, CNN, Face The Truth, and The Doctors to a name a few as well as been quoted in 100+ worldwide publications such as Cosmopolitan, Us Weekly, Elite Daily, Business Insider, Elle, Daily Mail. Blanca shares her expertise weekly on a CBS affiliate, WFMY News 2, in North Carolina. Additionally, Global Gurus has ranked Blanca in the Top 30 body language experts in the world. She is a graduate of UNC-Chapel Hill with B.A. in Psychology and a M.S. in Psychology from NC State University.  Fun fact about Blanca: She created a national holiday, “National Body Language Day,” which is celebrated on the first Friday of every October. Connect with Blanca: Instagram: instagram.com/blancacobb Facebook: facebook.com/blancacobb YouTube: blancacobb-bodylanguageexpert  Support the show Interested in possibly being a guest on the show? Click the link to get started! https://forms.gle/V1yGLH9W9Ck2m4TP7 Let's Connect! Web Instagram Facebook TikTok

    38 min
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Trailer

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Welcome to a podcast where it's all about the guest with. your host, Kristen Daukas! Tune in for real folks sharing their incredible tales, covering everything from hilarious to heartwarming moments, and maybe a mix of both! Each episode promises a fresh lesson to widen your horizons, spark new ideas, and leave you smiling. So, grab your go-to drink and join us for some good vibes and great chats!

Information

  • Creator
    Kristen Daukas
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2024
  • Episodes
    27
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Conversations on the Rocks
  • Show Website
    Conversations on the Rocks