Connectors Edge

Marian LaSalle

Welcome to the Connectors Edge Podcast! Hosts Marian LaSalle and Ricki McKenna bring you Connectors Edge, the podcast that shines a spotlight on the members of Referral Business Builders, the entrepreneurs, professionals, and business owners who thrive through the power of connections. Each episode features in-depth interviews with RBB members, giving them the stage to share their stories, expertise, and business insights. We’ll also dive into practical strategies for referral marketing, networking, and relationship-building—helping you grow your business through the connections that matter

  1. 6 DAYS AGO

    Overcoming Burnout and Finding Clarity on the Connectors Edge Podcast

    Chris Severs our guest on the Connectors Edge Podcast hosted by Marian LaSalle and Ricki McKenna of Connectors Business Network. Overcoming Burnout and Finding ClarityChris Severs, a transformational mindset coach and certified Life Mastery Consultant, discussed his work helping people overcome burnout and find clarity in their lives. He emphasized the importance of identifying and pursuing one's own dreams rather than living according to others' expectations. Chris explained that his approach involves helping clients explore what they truly love and encouraging them to embrace new ideas without restrictions, ultimately leading to a more fulfilling life.Life Coaching and Personal TransformationChris shared insights about his life coaching practice, explaining that he helps clients achieve their dreams through mindset shifts rather than external changes. He revealed that about 75-80% of his clients successfully change their lives, though not always exactly as envisioned. Chris emphasized that gratitude and awareness are key to personal transformation, and he offers a monthly webinar on the first Wednesday to share his coaching principles. He also discussed his coaching approach, which involves helping clients discover their own solutions rather than telling them what to think.Contact Marian LaSalle ~ https://connectorsbusinessnetwork.comRicki McKenna ~ https://rickiskitchen.netChris Severs https://DreamsInBloomLLC.comNext Workshop ~ Wednesday, January 07, 2026 @ 6:00 PM CT, 7:00 ET, 5:00 MT, 4:00 PT DreamsinBloomLLC.com

    36 min
  2. 7 FEB

    Connectors Edge Podcast

    Marian introduced Connectors Business Network, explaining that it offers business owners access to events, video content, and lessons for $10 per month, with prices increasing in February. She highlighted the network's educational content, including Marketing Made Easy and other business-focused topics. The conversation ended with a brief overview of the Connectors Edge podcast, which aims to connect business owners and help them grow their presence and community. David McLeod, a former Canadian fighter pilot and tech industry executive, discussed his journey from military service to Silicon Valley and his current work as a life coach. He explained how his experiences shaped his approach to coaching, emphasizing the importance of expanding beyond one's comfort zone and reconnecting with personal truth. David shared that he now runs Your Life Mastery, offering coaching services focused on helping people discover their authentic selves and break free from societal expectations. David shared his journey from corporate life to becoming a life coach and author, explaining how he developed his 13 life mastery skills through personal transformation and meditation. He detailed the evolution of his work from a TV show to writing "A Life to Die For" and his current focus on the "Tree of Life Mastery" program, which integrates all 13 skills. When asked about the number 13, David explained how he organically developed these tools through his personal growth journey, starting with awareness and acceptance before progressing to compassion, forgiveness, purpose, integrity, shadow work, relationships, flow, and concluding with gratitude and transcendence. David, a certified master life coach, discussed the importance of aligning personal life circumstances with business success, emphasizing that a coach's role is to guide rather than direct. Marian highlighted the need for business owners to focus on personal development to enhance their business performance, agreeing with David that life coaching can benefit business owners by improving their relationships with customers, employees, and themselves. Marian shared her experience collaborating with Red O'Loughlin, a health expert and author, to deliver combined business and health presentations, highlighting the value of integrating different expertise areas. Ricki discussed her recent collaboration with a bioscientist on a cooking show, where they successfully explained complex nutritional concepts in an accessible way, emphasizing the importance of clear communication and cross-disciplinary collaboration. David mentioned he was focused on completing several book projects, including two collaborations and his own book scheduled for release on April 13th, which explores four primary energetic archetypes. David shared details about his coaching offerings and content, including his website, Substack, YouTube channel, and upcoming book. He expressed gratitude for the hosts' flexibility in scheduling the interview to accommodate his health needs. Marian and Ricki discussed the importance of flexibility in various aspects of life, including cooking and physical health. David explained the live format of his "Magnificence in Motion" program, which he prefers for its organic and spontaneous nature. Journey from Pilot to Life Coach Journey to Life Mastery Skills Life Coaching for Business Success Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration in Presentations Coaching Offerings and Life Flexibility The hosts encouraged audience participation and invited listeners to comment and return for the next session. Contact HostsMarian LaSalle ~ ConnectorsBusinessNetwork.comRicki McKenna ~ RickisKitchen.net https://youtu.be/xlYrMLj_KzY

    36 min
  3. 2 FEB

    A REAL Marketing Case Study from Kimberly Bass ~ deliverhermarketing.com

    Kimberly Bass on the Connectors Edge Podcast hosted by Connectors Business Network. Marian and Ricki introduced Kimberly Bass, an email marketing expert and speaker coach from Dallas, who shared her experience helping business owners clarify their message and increase revenue. Kimberly discussed her work with Ricky, noting improvements in email engagement, and highlighted her programs designed to make technology and marketing accessible for all. Refining Target Audience StrategiesThe discussion focused on how Ricky helped her client, also named Ricky, refine her target audience from busy women entrepreneurs to single or divorced people over 50 who struggle with cooking for themselves. They transformed the client's email marketing to be more professional and aligned with her overall business goals, which include conducting cooking classes and promoting healthy eating. The conversation highlighted how Ricky's work helped the client become more passionate and effective in communicating with her new target audience.Client Confidence and Revenue StrategiesThe group discussed strategies for helping clients feel confident as authorities in their fields without appearing salesy, with Deliver explaining that clients are comfortable presenting valuable information they know their market needs. They explored how Ricki, who works in nutrition, can effectively communicate the importance of food's health benefits without feeling sales-oriented. The conversation concluded with Deliver sharing her focus on helping clients build revenue infrastructure in 2026, including revamping an assessment package for Ricki that combined existing services into a more valuable offering without requiring additional work.Entrepreneur Pricing and Self-WorthThe group discussed pricing strategies and the tendency for entrepreneurs, particularly women, to undervalue their services. Deliver shared that 80-85% of entrepreneurs she works with, especially women, undercharge for their services due to fear and self-doubt. The conversation highlighted the importance of recognizing one's worth and the value provided to clients. Deliver also mentioned her focus on serving speakers, coaches, and authors, and announced an upcoming 3-day event starting Sunday called the "Foolproof Follow-up Flow."ContactMarian LaSalle ~ ConnectorsBusinessNetwork.comRicki McKenna ~ RickisKitchen.netGuest Kimberly Bass ~ deliverhermarketing.com kimberly@deliverhermarketing.com

    28 min
  4. 31 JAN

    From Gaslighting to Truthlighting, a transformative approach

    On this episode of the Connectors Edge Podcast, hosts Marian LaSalle and Ricki McKenna welcome licensed therapist, author, and speaker Dr. Falguni Shah for a powerful conversation that every leader, coach, and ally needs to hear.Dr. Shah introduces the concept of Truthlighting, a transformative approach that replaces gaslighting with validation, clarity, and trust. Drawing from her book From Gaslighting to Truthlighting, she explains how affirming people’s lived experiences creates healthier relationships, stronger workplaces, and more empowered communities.We explore how truthlighting applies to business, coaching, leadership, and everyday life, and why it is especially impactful for minority women navigating corporate and professional spaces. Dr. Shah also shares her personal journey, the inspiration behind her book, and her passion for empowering girls, including her vision for future mother-daughter retreats.Plus, Marian and Ricki introduce listeners to the Connectors Business Network, sharing how intentional connection, resources, and community support can help entrepreneurs grow without burnout. https://connectorsbusinessnetwork.comIf you care about communication, trust, leadership, and real connection, this episode is a must-listen.ContactMarian LaSalle ~ ConnectorsBusinessNetwork.comRicki McKenna ~ RickisKitchen.netFalguni Shah, PhD, NCC, LCPC, CHCEF Author | Speaker | AdvocateAdjunct Faculty/Dissertation Chair - Adler UniversityWebsite: https://www.fortruthlighting.comLinkedIn:   / falguni-shah-phd-lcpc-ncc-chcef-13271816  Instagram:   / falgunifortruthlighting

    32 min
  5. 30 JAN

    Harmonizing Spaces, Vision, and Intuition for 2025–2026

    Marian opened the episode by welcoming listeners to the Connector’s Edge Podcast and thanking the sponsors who support the show. Ricki then introduced Patsy, a returning guest and expert in feng shui, known for helping people harmonize their spaces and, in turn, their lives.Health, Healing, and ManifestationPatsy shared deeply personal experiences around health and transformation, including her decision to have her gallbladder removed. She described how this choice led to a noticeable improvement in her overall well-being and reinforced her belief in addressing hidden or ignored aspects of health and life.She explained how feng shui and vision boards work together as powerful tools for clarity and manifestation. Patsy emphasized that intention alone is not enough; love, clarity, and aligned action are essential to bringing goals into reality. She also walked through her personal vision board process and how it continues to evolve with her life.The Evolution of Vision Boards: 2020 to 2025 Patsy is moving away from creative consulting and toward more individual and group wellness work, including feng shui and energetic space alignment. She encouraged listeners to take action on creative ideas when clarity appears, rather than waiting.Patsy also highlighted the significance of 2026, explaining that it marks the completion of a nine-year cycle and represents new beginnings, leadership, and the importance of unity and strong foundations.Intuition and Life TransitionsThe conversation naturally flowed into intuition and trusting one’s inner compass. Ricki shared recent experiences where listening to her instincts guided decisions in home design and teaching. She also announced her new role as an adjunct professor at Colorado Mountain College, where she will teach vegetarian and vegan cooking classes from January through May.Marian opened up about her own challenges with home design. While confident in graphic and digital design, she shared that she struggles to intuitively arrange and visualize her physical living space.Creating Comfort and Harmony at HomeIn response, Patsy offered gentle guidance, suggesting mindfulness practices and intentional communication with one’s environment as ways to build connection and clarity. Ricki shared a heartfelt example of creating a comfortable space for her pet, emphasizing that harmony should consider the needs of everyone who lives in a space.The conversation reinforced the idea that homes are living environments that respond to care, awareness, and intention.Preparing for 2026: Balance, Nature, and ResponsibilityPatsy returned to the theme of preparing for 2026 by grounding through nature, self-care, and conscious living. She spoke about taking responsibility for one’s happiness and using tools like vision boards and intentional placement within the home to create balance.She announced two upcoming events:An in-person vision board workshop in Katy, Texas on January 17Both events will include a promotional discount and focus on aligning with the energy of the coming year.Energy, Decluttering, and New BeginningsThe group discussed decluttering and donating items as a way to create space for new energy. Patsy shared that her 2026-focused work will include harmonizing with the year’s energetic elements, such as fire and wood, and creating personalized energetic maps for homes and workspaces. Here are a couple of links for the upcoming feng shui vision board workshops. One is in-person, in Katy and the other is for the annual virtual event. I’ve been hosting these since 2019.Contact Marian LaSalle https://connectorsbusinessnetwork.comRicki McKenna ~ https://rickiskitchen.netPatsy Balacchi ~ Brand & Feng Shui Consultant Zenotica®786-262-6362 ~ zenotica.comdynamic visual brands & harmonious spaces

    34 min
  6. 09/12/2025

    Overwhelm is Personal: Navigating Different Journeys and Resources

    Today on the Connectors Edge Podcast we welcomed back Scott Holmes. See below for some resources for any kind of overwhelm. Contact Scott Holmes Contact Ricki McKennahttps://rickiskitchen.net Contact Marian LaSalle https://referralBusinessBuilders.com Writer's Conference Experience in Tulum Scott shared his experience attending a writer's conference in Tulum, Mexico, where he and his wife celebrated their first wedding anniversary. He highlighted the impact of the conference in fostering close friendships among participants and the powerful speaking style of Oliver Reed, who encourages authenticity in writing. Understanding and Preventing Burnout Scott shared his personal experience with burnout, describing it as a state of overwhelming stress and hopelessness, particularly when facing multiple challenging situations simultaneously, such as managing family responsibilities and work while dealing with a spouse's cancer treatment and a child's medical instability. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a healthy outlook and perspective while having the necessary tools to prevent relapse into burnout. Finding Respite in Overwhelming Times Scott shared his personal experience of feeling overwhelmed and isolated, emphasizing the importance of finding safe spaces for respite. Caregiving vs Financial Overwhelm Scott shared his personal experience of making difficult life-and-death decisions for his wife and daughter, emphasizing that the focus was always on improving quality of life rather than just prolonging existence. Challenges of Remote Work Scott and Ricki discussed the challenges of working from home, including the difficulty of defining work boundaries and the risk of working excessive hours, which can lead to a lack of personal life. Overwhelm Management Strategies Discussion The group discussed personal experiences with overwhelm, with Scott sharing a story about walking 25 miles to get home during a snowstorm. Referral Business Builders Program Overview Marian discussed the Referral Business Builders program, including their book club currently reading "The Big Leap" and focusing on Einstein time versus Newtonian time. She promoted upcoming events including a Connectors Classroom session on new AI technology and Marketing Made Easy meetings, all available through their website. Trusted Articles & Guides National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) “I’m So Stressed Out! Fact Sheet”A very straightforward fact sheet that explains what stress and anxiety are, how to tell if what you’re feeling is typical stress or something more serious, and offers practical coping ideas (journaling, breathing/mindfulness, healthy habits, reaching out for help). National Institute of Mental Health Mental Health First Aid “5 Ways to Cope When You’re Feeling Overwhelmed”A short, practical post offering simple self-care strategies if you feel overwhelmed — from deep breathing and walking away (when possible), to creating a “no” list, setting boundaries, self-kindness, leaning on others, and journaling. Great for everyday emotional overwhelm or burnout. Mental Health First Aid Rick Hanson, PhD “Stress and Overwhelm” (on his personal growth website)Offers bite-sized mindfulness practices and simple daily-level tools to build resilience: breathwork, grounding, self-compassion, gratitude, and inner calm. Good as ongoing support when overwhelm isn’t a crisis but a recurring struggle. rickhanson.com How to Beat Stress and Overwhelm: 8 Research‑Backed Tips (YouTube video) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yLl5ueslt6E Gives research-based guidance to transform overwhelm into calm, useful for chronic stress or heavy workloads.

    32 min
  7. 01/12/2025

    Whipped Cream Wisdom: Recipes for a Happier Business Life

    Ricki and Marian discussed the importance of incorporating fun into business and personal life, emphasizing that enjoying what one does is crucial for success. Marian introduced the "Connectors Hour Book Club" and shared insights from the book "The Big Leap" by Gay Hendricks, focusing on the concept of "Einstein Time" and the power of affirmations or mantras. Ricki admired Marian's custom mantra, which she uses to maintain a positive mindset, and both agreed on the strength found in a balance of exhilaration and serenity.Positive Actions and Business GrowthRicki and Marian discussed the importance of positive actions and their potential long-term impact, using an example of Ricki's unique whipped cream recipe made with brown sugar and almond extract. They also talked about the benefits of joining Referral Business Builders, which offers access to replays of past meetings, including Elise's video marketing sessions for YouTube. Marian encouraged Ricki to participate in upcoming events like Marketing Made Easy, which focuses on preparing for a successful business future.Gratitude and Networking InsightsMarian and Ricki discussed the importance of vision boards, business networking, and the value of expressing gratitude. They emphasized the significance of authentic connections, receiving compliments, and the ripple effect of gratitude. Ricki shared a personal story about teaching her daughter to accept compliments, highlighting the importance of being open to receiving. They also mentioned an upcoming event where Ricki will share recipes and participate in a yoga and mindset group as an expert.Building Trust Through Positive EnergyRicki and Marian discussed the importance of maintaining calm and positive energy in business interactions, emphasizing that people are more likely to trust and do business with those they know, like, and trust. Ricki shared her experience of being pressured during a sales call, which left a negative impression, and highlighted the value of building relationships before making sales pitches. They agreed that making others feel comfortable and receptive through humor or a friendly approach can enhance the likelihood of successful interactions.Pumpkin Spice Recipe DiscussionRicki shared a recipe for homemade pumpkin spice seasoning, which combines cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice. Marian reminded listeners that the podcast is available on YouTube and various podcast platforms, and encouraged potential guests to contact them with products, services, or ideas to share. Marian LaSalle ~ https://referralbusinessbuilders.comRicki McKenna ~ https://rickiskitchen.net

    26 min
  8. 24/11/2025

    Healing, Growing & Connecting: A Thanksgiving-Week Conversation on the Connectors Edge Podcast

    Podcast Launch and Guest InterviewMarian and Ricki introduced their podcast, Connector's Edge, and welcomed Ilene Dillon as their guest. Ilene, a clinical social worker with 54 years of experience, discussed her journey of living in a van and traveling across the United States and Canada for 9-10 years. She shared her passion for helping people through her work and writing books on emotions. The podcast also highlighted Referral Business Builders, an online community offering training sessions and networking opportunities for entrepreneurs and business owners.Emotional Management in BusinessIlene shared insights on managing emotions in business, emphasizing the importance of focusing on desired outcomes rather than problems. Embracing Growth and ResilienceRicki and Ilene expressed their admiration for Marian, highlighting her qualities of love, compassion, and her ability to connect with people. Marian shared her experience of losing important recordings due to a computer failure during a COVID-era course, which led her to adopt a more cautious approach to data backup. Ilene encouraged Marian to let go of the past and focus on moving forward, while Marian appreciated the positive experiences gained from the course despite the technical setback.Connecting and Giving BackMarian and Ricki discussed the importance of connecting with people and giving back, with Marian expressing her love for people and how giving to others fulfills her needs. Ilene offered a free 15-minute consultation on emotions to the first five people who contact her, sharing her experience with the effectiveness of short consultations. Ricki appreciated the generosity and love shown by both Marian and Ilene, highlighting the value of connecting with people and the reach of their podcast across various platforms.Self-Love and Positive ExperiencesIlene shared her personal experience of focusing on self-love during her RV travels across the United States and Canada, noting that her positive experiences were a reflection of her inner love and acceptance. Ricki and Marian discussed the importance of self-love and its impact on attracting positive experiences, with Ilene agreeing to return for a future episode to further explore this topic. The hosts encouraged viewers to engage with the content by leaving comments and suggested revisiting past episodes for additional insights.Ilene's Name Change and EmpathyIlene shared her personal story about how her name was changed from "Joe Eileen" to "Ilene Josephine" by her parents, explaining it was to avoid reminders of her father's previous marriage. The group discussed creating promotional materials for Ilene's FOR-Life.com email offer, with Marian agreeing to design a graphic. Ricki and Ilene had a philosophical discussion about how everyone comes from some form of dysfunctional family background, which Ilene viewed as an opportunity to develop empathy and learn important life lessons.Empowering Seniors in a Changing WorldIlene shared her experience with the Summiteeers, a group founded by Dr. Don Cote for people 55 and older to remain relevant and active. Ricki discussed an AARP article highlighting the growing population of single people over 60, emphasizing their autonomy and control over life. They reflected on the changing world and the wisdom accumulated over time, with Ilene recalling her childhood experiences on a farm. Marian announced a special offer from Ilene Dillon for free 15-minute emotional mastery sessions.Connect with all three of usIlene Dillion ~ https://emotionalmasteryforlife.com/Marian LaSalle ~ https://referralbusinessbuilders.comRicki McKenna ~ https://rickiskitchen.net

    33 min

About

Welcome to the Connectors Edge Podcast! Hosts Marian LaSalle and Ricki McKenna bring you Connectors Edge, the podcast that shines a spotlight on the members of Referral Business Builders, the entrepreneurs, professionals, and business owners who thrive through the power of connections. Each episode features in-depth interviews with RBB members, giving them the stage to share their stories, expertise, and business insights. We’ll also dive into practical strategies for referral marketing, networking, and relationship-building—helping you grow your business through the connections that matter