Jess Saying With Jessica Danel

Jess Saying
  • 5.0 (6)
  • Parenting

Jess Saying is where real talk meets real life—with a side of sass. From parenting curveballs and small-town drama to building businesses and surviving life’s messiest moments, host Jessica Danel dives headfirst into the unfiltered truth. It’s honest, hilarious, sometimes heavy, and always human. Whether you’re laughing, crying, or shouting “YES!” in your car, you’re not alone. She’s just saying what we’re all thinking.

  1. 2d ago

    Episode 49, A Marine’s Mission to Equip the Next Generation with Olaolu Ogunyemi

    What does it take to lead at home, at work, and within yourself—especially in a world that celebrates the spotlight over service? In this episode of Jess Saying, I sit down with Marine Officer, father, and award-winning author Olaolu Ogunyemi to explore the life-shaping power of intentional leadership and resilient parenting. From his humble beginnings to the discipline of the military, Olaolu shares how his faith, failures, and fatherhood molded him into a man on a mission to amplify the right voices in children’s lives. Through personal stories, practical tools, and spiritual wisdom, he reminds us that building a legacy doesn’t start with status—it starts with showing up. Whether you're a parent trying to raise confident kids, a leader battling insecurity, or simply someone searching for purpose, this conversation will leave you fired up and full of faith.

    1h 12m

  2. May 25

    Episode 48, One Woman’s Mission to Educate, Equip, and Empower with Gail Showalter

    In this conversation, Jessica Danel and Gail Showalter discuss the challenges faced by single mothers, particularly in pursuing education and career opportunities. Gail shares her personal journey and the founding of her organization, Single Moms Empowered, which aims to support single mothers in overcoming barriers to education and employment. They explore the importance of community support, self-belief, and the need for practical resources to helpsingle moms thrive. The conversation emphasizes the significance of small, actionable steps towards personal growth and the power of perseverance in the face of adversity.

    50 min

  3. May 18

    Episode 47, Reinventing Midlife with Terri Hanson Mead

    Who says your best years are behind you after 40? On this episode, Jessica Danel sits down with helicopter pilot, angel investor, and midlife troublemaker Terri Hanson Mead—a woman on a mission to help others blow up the boxes society handed them. Terri shares her unapologetic take on the "messy middle," midlife identity crises, career pivots, and why playing it safe is the riskiest move you can make. With wisdom, wit, and zero BS, she reminds us that midlife isn't a crisis—it's your chance to rewrite the rules and take the damn controls.

    1h 15m

  4. May 11

    Episode 46, From Mom Life to Mythic Worlds, The Legendary Guardians of J.F. Monroe

    Step into a world where angels, demons, and humans collide—and where the line between love and duty isn’t so clear. In thisepisode, Jessica Danel sits down with fantasy author J.F. Monroe, whose LegendaryGuardians series reimagines the Four Horsemen mythology through heart, humor, and high stakes. We’ll explore how fantasy can be more than just magic and monsters—it’s a mirror for human connection, redemption, and resilience. Fromjuggling motherhood and a day job to releasing her debut novel and its sequel Descent Into the Voidheart, J.F. shares how she blends epic storytelling with everyday relatability. If you've ever wondered how stories like The Hunger Games or Lord of the Rings can inspire us to face our own challenges, you’ll love this conversation.

    58 min

  5. May 4

    Episode 45, Menopause, Meltdowns, and Career Reboots with Wendy Alexander

    In this engaging conversation, Wendy Alexander shares her remarkable journey from growing up in apartheid South Africa to becoming a successful career coach and author. She discusses the challenges of single motherhood, the importance of resilience, and the journey of reinventing oneself in midlife. Wendy emphasizes the significance of health and well-being, the power of storytelling, and the need for women to pursue their passions while maintaining financial stability. Her insights inspire listeners to embrace their journeys and seek fulfillment in their careers and lives.

    1h 4m

  6. Apr 27

    Episode 44, From Hardware Stores to Hard Truths, Finding Your True North with David Ask

    In this engaging conversation, Jessica Danel interviews entrepreneur and inventor David Ask, who shares his journey from invention to entrepreneurship. They discuss the challenges and triumphs of creating innovative solutions, the importance of authenticity, and the role of fathers in shaping identity. David emphasizes the significance of self-discovery, grit, and the impact of community on personal growth. The conversation also touches on the legacy we leave behind and the value of surrounding ourselves with positive influences.

    52 min

  7. Apr 20

    Episode 43, From Long Island to the Vatican, Rosamaria Mancini on Parenting, Podcasts, and Culture Shocks

    In this engaging conversation, Jessica Danel interviews Rosa Maria Mancini, a podcaster and author of the memoir 'SOS Podcasts.' Rosa sharesher journey of moving from Italy to Germany, the cultural challenges she faced, and how podcasts became a lifeline during her expat life. The discussion delves into the expectations of living in different countries, the experience of motherhood abroad, and the importance of finding community through shared interests. Rosa also reflects on her writing process and the lessons she hopes readers will take away from her memoir, emphasizing the acceptance of flaws and the need for connection.

    47 min

  8. Apr 13

    Episode 42, Raising Readers in a Digital World with Dr. Bill Senyard

    In this engaging conversation, Jessica Danel interviews Bill Senyard, an award-winning fantasy author, about his book series, 'The Kingdom Quest.' They explore the intersection of faith and fantasy, the importance of storytelling in shaping values, and the impact of social media on youth. Bill shares insights on the writing process, themes of identity and forgiveness, and the role of humor in storytelling. The discussion also touches on encouraging children's reading and on effective marketing strategies for authors.

    51 min
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5
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About

Jess Saying is where real talk meets real life—with a side of sass. From parenting curveballs and small-town drama to building businesses and surviving life’s messiest moments, host Jessica Danel dives headfirst into the unfiltered truth. It’s honest, hilarious, sometimes heavy, and always human. Whether you’re laughing, crying, or shouting “YES!” in your car, you’re not alone. She’s just saying what we’re all thinking.

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