The Hats Podcast

Kerri & Melissa
  • 5.0 (60)
  • Society & Culture
  • Weekly

The Hats Podcast is for anyone who wears many hats - mom, friend, business owner, athlete, sister, traveler, fashionista, doctor, etc. - and wants tips on how to balance their hats with style and grace! This show offers listeners personal stories from hosts Melissa Dumaz, a licensed marriage and family therapist, and Kerri Harper-Howie, an attorney and business owner, as well as tips for how they balance the many hats they wear. Join Melissa and Kerri for a fun and funny few minutes and learn a little something along the way!

  1. 1d ago

    223: The Professional Associations Hat with LaVada English

    How can joining the right professional association help you grow your career, strengthen your business, and enter rooms you may not reach alone? In this episode of The Hats Podcast, Melissa Dumaz and Kerri Harper-Howie welcome leadership educator, executive coach, entrepreneur, and community builder LaVada English for an honest conversation about wearing the Professional Associations Hat. LaVada is the president of the National Association of Women Business Owners Los Angeles, founder and CEO of Bright Places, and co-founder of the National Association of Women in AI. With more than 20 years of experience in leadership development, workplace culture, emotional intelligence, communication, and human behavior, she understands the power of bringing people together around a shared mission. LaVada explains why professional associations offer more than networking opportunities. The right organization can provide education, mentorship, advocacy, credibility, meaningful relationships, business opportunities, and access to people who understand the challenges you are navigating. Together, Melissa, Kerri, and LaVada discuss why community is essential for professional growth and why women should feel comfortable being honest about their financial goals. Building relationships, pursuing opportunities, and increasing your income can also create greater capacity to serve, invest, and make an impact. They also explore the unique value of women-focused organizations while emphasizing the importance of joining communities outside your immediate industry, identity, or comfort zone. Different associations provide different perspectives, information, and opportunities—and diversifying your network can be just as valuable as diversifying your income. In this episode, you'll learn: Why professional growth happens more effectively in community How associations can create opportunities, credibility, and economic growth Why showing up consistently helps people know, trust, and recommend you The value of having someone speak your name in a room you are not in Why women-focused professional spaces offer important support and shared understanding LaVada reminds listeners that simply paying dues and adding an organization to a résumé or LinkedIn profile is not enough. The real value comes from showing up, building relationships, contributing your skills, and taking advantage of the opportunities available within the community. Before joining an association, understand what you want, research its mission and values, and decide how involved you are prepared to become. The right professional community should allow you to contribute, learn, build meaningful relationships, and move closer to your personal and professional goals. Tune in to learn how to choose the right associations, build an intentional network, and go farther through the power of community. Connect with LaVada English Website: https://www.thewomeninai.com/ https://brgtplaces.com/  Connect with The Hats Podcast Send an email: thehatspodcast@gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheHatsPodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/TheHatsPodcast Connect with Kerri Harper-Howie Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kerriharperhowie/ Check out Kerri's book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0D9TYFW6N Connect with Melissa Dumaz Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissadumaz/ Website: https://www.melissadumaz.com/

  2. Oct 28

    222: The Legacy Hat with Charisse Bremond Weaver

    What are you creating today that will continue making a difference long after you are gone? In this episode of The Hats Podcast, Melissa Dumas and Kerri Harper-Howie put on the Legacy Hat with Charisse Bremond Weaver, President and CEO of Brotherhood Crusade, for a powerful conversation about service, leadership, community, and creating an impact that reaches beyond personal success. Charisse shares how growing up in a home centered around service shaped her understanding of legacy. Her late father, Walter Bremond, and her mother modeled generosity, education, and a deep commitment to the community. After her father passed away when she was 18, Charisse realized that her purpose was to continue serving others and carrying his vision forward. She also reflects on becoming a second-generation leader and the responsibility of honoring what came before her while building something new. Under her leadership, Brotherhood Crusade expanded its work through trauma-informed youth development, community partnerships, advocacy, and programs that give young people access to opportunities they may never have imagined for themselves. Charisse reminds us that legacy is not about money, recognition, social media attention, or going viral. It is about discovering your gifts, serving with integrity, creating opportunities for others, and consistently offering your best. In this episode, you'll learn: How family, mentors, and community can shape your legacy Why legacy should be rooted in purpose rather than recognition How Charisse continued the work of her father while creating her own leadership path Why writing down your vision can help turn an idea into lasting impact How trauma-informed programs help young people lead from a place of healing Charisse also offers a practical place to begin: write down what you want your legacy to look like over the next six months, then consider what you hope to build over the next one to five years. Melissa and Kerri add that creating a legacy also requires quiet reflection. Whether through prayer, meditation, or journaling, making space to listen can help you recognize what you are being called to create, continue, or change. Legacy does not have to be the biggest or most visible accomplishment. It may be a business, a book, a podcast, a community program, a lesson shared, or the way you care for your family. You are already creating it. Put on your Legacy Hat and tune in for an inspiring conversation about honoring the people who poured into you, embracing your purpose, and creating opportunities for the generations coming behind you.   Connect with The Hats Podcast Send an email: thehatspodcast@gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheHatsPodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/TheHatsPodcast Connect with Kerri Harper-Howie Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kerriharperhowie/ Check out Kerri's book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0D9TYFW6N Connect with Melissa Dumaz Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissadumaz/ Website: https://www.melissadumaz.com/

  3. Oct 21 ·  Video

    221: The Motivation Hat

    What keeps you moving when you simply do not feel motivated? In this episode of The Hats Podcast, Melissa Dumas and Kerri Harper-Howie put on the Motivation Hat for an honest conversation about finding the drive to pursue your goals, care for yourself, and continue building a meaningful legacy. Melissa shares how her motivation has evolved from fulfilling childhood dreams to creating new possibilities for herself and her family. Kerri reflects on her lifelong ambition to become an attorney and why she is now motivated by making a lasting impact, honoring her mother's legacy, and planting seeds that may flourish long after she is gone. They also acknowledge an important truth: no one feels motivated all the time. Sometimes progress comes from discipline, supportive habits, encouragement from others, or simply choosing to take the next small step. Together, Melissa and Kerri explore practical ways to move through procrastination and self-doubt, including changing your environment, listening to music, taking a break, calling someone you trust, and remembering what has carried you through difficult moments before. In this episode, you'll learn: How motivation changes throughout different seasons of life The difference between motivation, discipline, and habit Why you do not need to feel motivated before taking action How small choices can strengthen your confidence and self-trust Why both internal and external motivation have value Whether you are pursuing a personal goal, leading a team, building a legacy, or simply trying to make it through a difficult day, this conversation is a reminder that motivation does not always arrive before the work begins. Sometimes taking the first step is what brings it back. Put on your Motivation Hat and tune in for an encouraging conversation about honoring where you are, reconnecting with your purpose, and continuing to move forward. Listen now, and share with us: What helps you get motivated again when you feel stuck? Connect with The Hats Podcast Send an email: thehatspodcast@gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheHatsPodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/TheHatsPodcast Connect with Kerri Harper-Howie Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kerriharperhowie/ Check out Kerri's book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0D9TYFW6N Connect with Melissa Dumaz Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissadumaz/ Website: https://www.melissadumaz.com/

  4. Oct 14

    220: The Book Publishing Hat with Brooke-Sidney Harbour

    Writing the first draft is only the beginning. How do you turn those words into a polished book that connects with the right audience, strengthens your brand, and creates a lasting legacy? In this episode of The Hats Podcast, Melissa Dumas and Kerri Harper-Howie welcome author, attorney, journalist, editor, and book development expert Brooke-Sidney Harbour to discuss The Book Publishing Hat. Brooke Sidney is the founder of The Soul Story Agency, a luxury book development and ghostwriting firm that helps leaders, experts, and visionaries transform their ideas and lived experiences into meaningful books. She is also the host of The Soul Story Show, where she explores the deeper stories behind success, transformation, and authorship. Together, they unpack what happens after the first draft, why every author needs support, and how the editing and publishing process can develop not only your book but also your voice, confidence, authority, and personal brand. Brooke-Sidney explains why a first draft is not yet a finished book and why developmental editing is one of the most important and frequently overlooked steps in self-publishing. Unlike copyediting or proofreading, developmental editing examines the book's structure, message, audience, characters, and overall promise to the reader. They also discuss the courage required to share part of yourself publicly and how the journey from writer to published author can become a transformative experience of its own. In this episode, you'll learn: What separates aspiring writers from those who successfully publish Why passion, support, and a desire to serve others are essential The difference between developmental editing, copyediting, and proofreading Why your first draft is the starting point, not the finished book How to identify the specific reader your book is meant to help Whether your book is still an idea, sitting unfinished on your computer, or ready for professional editing, this conversation offers an honest look at what it takes to move from writing to publishing. Your story may begin with you, but its greatest impact comes from how it helps someone else move forward. Put on The Book Publishing Hat and discover how the right support can help you transform your ideas into a book that creates impact, builds authority, and preserves your legacy. Connect with Brooke-Sidney Harbour: Website: https://brookesidneybooks.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebrookesidney/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@brookesidney  Connect with The Hats Podcast Send an email: thehatspodcast@gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheHatsPodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/TheHatsPodcast Connect with Kerri Harper-Howie Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kerriharperhowie/ Check out Kerri's book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0D9TYFW6N Connect with Melissa Dumaz Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissadumaz/ Website: https://www.melissadumaz.com/

  5. Oct 8

    219: The Author Hat

    Do you have a story inside you but keep wondering whether it is worth sharing or where you would even begin? In this episode of The Hats Podcast, Melissa Dumas and Kerri Harper-Howie put on The Author Hat and share the personal journeys behind writing and publishing their books. Melissa explains how a 30-day relationship challenge that began on her blog eventually became The Love Challenge: 30 Days, 30 Ways to Increase the Love in Your Relationship. What started as a divine idea grew into a practical resource that has helped couples, families, and even workplace teams strengthen their relationships. Kerri shares how her desire to preserve her mother's legacy and tell the honest story of their family business inspired The Family Secret: The Business and Franchise Owners' Guide to Building Generational Wealth. She opens up about the courage, persistence, and structure it took to bring the book from an idea to publication over seven years. Together, Melissa and Kerri discuss the different paths authors can take, the hats they had to wear throughout the writing process, and why your story does not have to look like anyone else's to hold value. In this episode, you'll learn: How Melissa turned a 30-day blog challenge into a published book Why Kerri felt called to preserve her mother's story and family legacy How to recognize when your experience can become a valuable resource for others Why writing a little each day can make a big goal feel achievable The importance of discipline, commitment, courage, confidence, and persistence Whether you have already started writing or your book is still only an idea, this conversation will encourage you to make time for your story, find the writing process that works for you, and take the next step. Your book will not write itself, but it does not have to happen all at once. Connect with The Hats Podcast Send an email: thehatspodcast@gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheHatsPodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/TheHatsPodcast Connect with Kerri Harper-Howie Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kerriharperhowie/ Check out Kerri's book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0D9TYFW6N Connect with Melissa Dumaz Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissadumaz/ Website: https://www.melissadumaz.com/

  6. Sep 30

    218: The Delegation Hat

    What if doing everything yourself is the very thing keeping you from growing? In this episode of The Hats Podcast, Melissa Dumas and Kerri Harper-Howie put on the Delegation Hat and explore why learning to share responsibility is an essential part of becoming an effective leader. Kerri explains that delegation is not simply about taking work off your plate. When done well, it creates a mutually beneficial relationship. Leaders gain the time and capacity to focus on bigger priorities, while team members receive opportunities to develop new skills, take ownership, and feel more connected to their work. Melissa opens up about one of her biggest struggles with delegation: feeling like it would take less time to complete a task herself than to explain it to someone else. Together, she and Kerri examine why training should be viewed as a long-term investment. The time spent building systems and preparing someone today can save hours of repeated work in the future. They also discuss the fear of losing control, the expectation that others will complete a task exactly as you would, and the importance of accepting that there can be more than one successful way to reach an outcome. In this episode, you'll learn: Why delegation is essential for leadership and business growth How delegation benefits both the leader and the person receiving the responsibility Why trust, connection, and engagement grow when people feel valued How your tone can make a task feel like an opportunity instead of an order Why training, resources, and clear expectations set people up for success Delegation may feel uncomfortable at first, but it is a skill that becomes stronger with practice. When you communicate clearly, create supportive systems, allow room for mistakes, and trust others to contribute, you make space for everyone to grow. Tune in to learn how to put on your Delegation Hat, release some control, and create more room for leadership, opportunity, and growth.

  7. Sep 23

    217: The Branding Hat with Kinley Croton LaGrange

    What makes a brand memorable—and how can you build one without losing your authentic voice? In this episode of The Hats Podcast, Melissa Dumas and Kerri Harper-Howie welcome branding and marketing expert Kinley Croton LaGrange for a thoughtful conversation about personal and professional branding. Kinley explains that branding is much more than a logo, color palette, or social media aesthetic. It is the reputation you build, the values you represent, and the experience people associate with you. Whether you are growing a business, advancing your career, or developing a personal platform, a strong brand begins with understanding who you are and what you want to be known for. The conversation explores the overlap between personal and professional branding, the importance of showing up consistently, and how authenticity helps people connect with and trust you. Kinley also offers practical, budget-friendly ways to begin—including doing the internal work, gathering feedback from trusted people, defining your goals, and seeking professional support only when you understand what you need. Melissa and Kinley also discuss how artificial intelligence can support brainstorming, writing, organization, and content planning. While AI can make the creative process more efficient, it cannot replace your expertise, emotional connection, or unique point of view. In this episode, you'll learn: What branding really means beyond logos and visual design Why your reputation, values, and personal story are part of your brand How personal and professional branding increasingly overlap Why authenticity and consistency help build trust How to discover what makes your perspective valuable Before investing in a new logo, website, coach, or branding strategy, start with the free but essential work of getting to know yourself. When your brand reflects who you truly are, it becomes easier to show up consistently, connect with the right audience, and create opportunities that align with your goals. Tune in and discover how to put on your Branding Hat, own your story, and build a brand that people will remember.   Connect with The Hats Podcast Send an email: thehatspodcast@gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheHatsPodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/TheHatsPodcast Connect with Kerri Harper-Howie Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kerriharperhowie/ Check out Kerri's book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0D9TYFW6N Connect with Melissa Dumaz Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissadumaz/ Website: https://www.melissadumaz.com/

  8. Sep 16

    216: The Side Hustle Hat with Kim Prepetit

    Can you build a profitable side hustle without leaving your nine-to-five? In this episode of The Hats Podcast, Melissa Dumaz and Kerri Harper-Howie welcome multifaceted entrepreneur and business professional Kim Prepetit for a practical conversation about wearing The Side Hustle Hat. For more than a decade, Kim has balanced her career, family, and several side business ventures. In this episode, she shares how her side hustles have evolved with her interests and seasons of life, eventually leading her to create On the Wall LA, an online boutique featuring culture-inspired apparel, wall art, and gifts. Kim explains why passion is essential when building a side hustle, especially when you are using your evenings, weekends, and early mornings to make it work. She also shares the financial side that many new entrepreneurs overlook, including tracking every expense, pricing for profit, understanding your market, and knowing when you can expect a return on your investment. Together, Kim, Melissa, and Kerri discuss how to protect your nine-to-five, keep clear boundaries between both roles, involve your family, ask for help, and decide whether your side hustle should remain an additional income stream or eventually become your full-time business. In this episode, you'll learn: How to turn a personal need or creative interest into a business idea Why passion and profit both matter when choosing a side hustle How to calculate your real expenses and price your work appropriately Why your customers' needs should guide your products and services A side hustle takes time, discipline, sacrifice, and plenty of trial and error. With passion, preparation, and a clear understanding of your numbers, it can also become a meaningful creative outlet and an additional source of income. Tune in to discover how to start, grow, and confidently wear The Side Hustle Hat. Connect with The Hats Podcast Send an email: thehatspodcast@gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheHatsPodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/TheHatsPodcast Connect with Kerri Harper-Howie Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kerriharperhowie/ Check out Kerri's book on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0D9TYFW6N Connect with Melissa Dumaz Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melissadumaz/ Website: https://www.melissadumaz.com/

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5
out of 5
60 Ratings

About

The Hats Podcast is for anyone who wears many hats - mom, friend, business owner, athlete, sister, traveler, fashionista, doctor, etc. - and wants tips on how to balance their hats with style and grace! This show offers listeners personal stories from hosts Melissa Dumaz, a licensed marriage and family therapist, and Kerri Harper-Howie, an attorney and business owner, as well as tips for how they balance the many hats they wear. Join Melissa and Kerri for a fun and funny few minutes and learn a little something along the way!

Information

  • Creator
    Kerri & Melissa
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    223
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © The symbols associated with this podcast are owned exclusively by Kerri Harper-Howie and Melissa Dumaz and may not be duplicated or used with their express permission.
  • Show Website
    The Hats Podcast

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