Life. Reimagined. with Stacey Ray

Born to Stand-Up: Why It’s Never Too Late to Be Funny

"It’s never too late to find your marvelous."
In this inspiring and laugh-out-loud episode, Stacey sits down with Felicia Madison, stand-up comedian, comedy booker, and the force behind the West Side Comedy Club and FUNY (Funny University of New York). Once a stay-at-home mom who felt like something was missing, Felicia took a leap in her 50s to try stand-up comedy—and never looked back. From her first class to running a top NYC club, Felicia shares how she transformed midlife uncertainty into a thriving comedy career. The two delve into ageism in comedy, the thrill (and terror) of open mics, and the surprising joy of being a late bloomer. Full of wit, wisdom, and real talk, this episode is a must-listen for anyone wondering if it's too late to start over.
What You’ll Learn:
Why it's never too late to discover your passion
How Felicia went from comedy student to club booker and performer
The realities and rewards of being a woman in comedy later in life
How comedy helps women reclaim visibility and voice in midlife
Felicia’s insights on talent, tenacity, and why kindness matters in showbiz
Tips for women over 50 who want to try stand-up (or anything new!)
Felicia Madison is a New York-based comedian, producer, talent booker, and founder of Funny University of New York (FUNY). She began her comedy career in her 50s after years as a stay-at-home mom, quickly rising in the scene with her signature observational wit and savvy show production. She now runs the West Side Comedy Club, nurturing rising comedians and bringing diverse voices to the stage. Her YouTube special "Better Than Sex" has garnered thousands of views and she recently appeared on the new pilot of "America's Funniest People."
Connect with Felicia:
Website: feliciamadison.com
Instagram: @feliciamadisoncomedian
YouTube: Felicia Madison Comedy
West Side Comedy Club: westsidecomedyclub.com
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She Turned $100K in Debt Into Confidence and Control – Cat Ford-Coates

"Photography creates legacy on both sides of the lens. When it captures your essence, it proves that version of you exists."
In this inspiring episode of Life. Reimagined., host Stacey chats with internationally awarded Master Photographer, educator, and creative entrepreneur Cat Ford-Coates. From a bullied teen to a global visual storyteller, Cat shares her unconventional journey into portrait photography, her brief detour into opera and sake brewing, and how photography ultimately became her soul-aligned calling. This episode is a masterclass in resilience, reinvention, and the transformative power of seeing and being seen. Learn how Cat empowers individuals and fellow creatives through powerful imagery and business mentorship, redefining success one portrait at a time.
What You’ll Learn:
How Cat Ford-Coates turned personal pain into creative power
Why transformational portrait photography is more than "just a picture"
The story behind Cat’s pivot from sake brewing to building a thriving photography business
How she's helping photographers go from struggling to six-figure success
Insights into pricing, boundaries, and valuing creative work without apology
Why visibility matters, especially for women and mothers
How confidence and authenticity fuel business and legacy
Cat Ford-Coates Cat Ford-Coates is one of only a handful of internationally awarded Fellow Master Photographers with The Portrait Masters. As CEO of Atelier Unforgettable in Asheville, NC, Cat leads with artistry and intention—creating legacy-driven portraits and brand campaigns for individuals, families, and entrepreneurs. Beyond the studio, she’s a sought-after speaker, educator, and founder of The Studio Takeover, a business coaching platform empowering photographers to master both craft and commerce. Her work has earned multiple Telly and Communicator Awards and has been featured on FOX, NBC, CBS, and more.
Connect with Cat:
Website: catfordcoates.com
Atelier Unforgettable: atelierunforgettable.com
Instagram: @catfordcoates
The Studio Takeover: thestudiotakeover.com
If this episode inspired you to embrace your own evolution, take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe to Life. Reimagined with Stacey Ray. Share it with a friend who’s ready to step into their power—and don’t forget to follow us for more conversations that ignite reinvention and authenticity. 🌟
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Prove Them Wrong: Ellen Busch Reclaims Her Power

"From academic death sentence to unstoppable resilience, Ellen Busch reveals how she rewrote her life story."
In this powerful and transformative episode, host Stacey sits down with Ellen Busch—author, coach, speaker, and survivor—to explore her remarkable journey of overcoming dyslexia, surviving an abusive marriage, and forging a life of empowerment. Diagnosed with dyslexia at a time when it was poorly understood, Ellen was told she had no future. 
With the unwavering support of her parents, she defied expectations, earning advanced degrees and excelling in healthcare and technology. Her story takes a turn through deep personal trauma, including psychological abuse, before she discovers strength, healing, and transformation through rigorous self-development programs, including training with retired Navy SEALs. Ellen's story is one of hope, resilience, and an unshakable belief that it's never too late to reclaim your power.
What You'll Learn:
The impact of early labels and how they can shape self-worth
Practical strategies for overcoming learning differences like dyslexia
The warning signs and psychological traps of narcissistic abuse
The power of consistent breath practice and holistic healing
How elite-level training can foster confidence and resilience
Why it's never too late to reclaim your life and redefine your story
Ellen Busch is an American author, coach, and speaker best known for her memoir, (dis)Empowered: How I Turned an Academic Death Sentence Into My Life’s Greatest Adventure. Diagnosed with dyslexia as a child, Ellen overcame tremendous odds to become a champion for dyslexia awareness and domestic abuse survivors. Her professional background includes roles in the medical technology industry, and she holds a bachelor's in Health Science and an MBA. Ellen also trains in elite personal development programs led by Navy SEALs and is a certified Unbeatable Mind coach. She currently lives in Colorado, embracing her love for skiing and the outdoors.
Connect with Ellen:
Official Website: https://www.ellenbusch.com/
Instagram: @ellenbusch1500/
Facebook: @ellen.busch.2025/
Empowered by Ellen Busch on Amazon
Empowered by Ellen Busch (Kindle)
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How I Stopped Saying “I’m Sorry” and Started Living Out Loud

“Reinvention isn’t about starting over—it’s about evolving into the fullest version of ourselves.”
In this illuminating episode of Life. Reimagined with Stacey Ray, Stacey sits down with two-time Emmy Award-winning filmmaker and creative powerhouse Shannon Malone-deBenedictis. Known for her heart-stirring documentaries like Penguin Town, Secrets of the Whales, and Inside the Mind of a Cat, Shannon opens up about her personal and professional journey—one marked by reinvention, resilience, and radical authenticity.
Together, they explore the emotional depths of wildlife storytelling, Shannon’s transition from high-powered network executive to founder of Padlin Creative, and what it truly means to live—and lead—fully unapologetically. From the sidelines of Little League to the frontlines of wildlife documentary filmmaking, Shannon brings humor, heart, and hard-won wisdom to this honest and empowering conversation.
Whether you’re navigating a midlife pivot, yearning to tell your own story, or simply need a reminder that you’re allowed to take up space, this episode is a masterclass in courage, creativity, and finding purpose through passion.
What You’ll Learn:
How storytelling can reshape our understanding of nature—and ourselves.
Why failure is a crucial ingredient in success.
The importance of embracing authenticity in male-dominated and appearance-driven industries.
How Shannon's life-altering decision to care for her mother led her into the world of documentary filmmaking.
What it means to be “fully unapologetic” and how it’s reshaping women’s voices in media.
The role of sports in building confidence, cooperation, and emotional resilience.
Insights into working with wild animals, from orcas to hyenas, and the humanity within their behaviors.
Shannon Malone-deBenedictis is a two-time Emmy Award-winning documentary filmmaker, creative consultant, speaker, and founder of Padlin Creative. With decades of experience working with Disney+, Netflix, and National Geographic, Shannon has told powerful stories that bring nature’s wonders and human truths to life. Beyond the camera, she empowers individuals—especially women—to step into their fullest, boldest selves through speaking engagements and programs like “Fully Unapologetic” and “Life After TV.”
Connect with Shannon:
Website: padlincreative.com
LinkedIn: Shannon Malone-deBenedictis
YouTube: Padlin Creative Channel
SCAD Profile: scadscan.com
If this episode inspired you to embrace your own evolution, take a moment to rate, review, and subscribe to Life. Reimagined with Stacey Ray. Share it with a friend who’s ready to step into their power—and don’t forget to follow us for more conversations that ignite reinvention and authenticity. 🌟
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Single Mom. Bankrupt. Unstoppable: Sarah Pittendrigh’s Journey of Resilience

"I put fear below purpose — I did it scared, but the purpose was more important than how I felt."
In this inspiring episode of Life. Reimagined., Stacey welcomes Sarah Pittendrigh, a multi-award-winning entrepreneur, mindset coach, motivational speaker, and author, to share her incredible journey from bankruptcy to business triumph and personal fulfillment. Sarah opens up about the life-shattering challenges she faced — from the collapse of a business that left her bankrupt and homeless as a single mother, to overcoming malignant melanoma twice — and how she found resilience, purpose, and success through it all. Together, Stacey and Sarah explore the power of mindset, the importance of doing things scared, and the transformative impact of her signature framework, The I CAN Method. This is a conversation brimming with wisdom for anyone looking to reimagine their life and turn adversity into opportunity.
Learn more about Sarah's story here.
What You’ll Learn
How Sarah rebuilt her life and business after bankruptcy and personal loss.
The mindset shift that allowed her to overcome fear and take action despite uncertainty.
The story behind Simply Bows & Chair Covers and its national franchising success.
Insights into The I CAN Method — a powerful tool for personal and professional transformation.
Why Sarah believes in blending, not balancing, personal life and business.
How a SWOT analysis can be applied to yourself, not just your business.
The importance of recognizing your own worth and defining what “enough” looks like.
Sarah Pittendrigh is a Northumberland-based entrepreneur, mindset coach, motivational speaker, and author of The 'I Can' Method. After experiencing bankruptcy and personal hardship during the 2008 recession, Sarah founded Simply Bows & Chair Covers, a thriving national business that transformed the events industry through franchising. Sarah now helps others shift from “I can’t” to “I can” through her coaching programs, speaking engagements, and writing. She is also an ambassador for The Prince’s Trust Women Supporting Women campaign and Everywoman.
Resources & Links
Official Website: sarahpittendrigh.com
Instagram: @sarahpittendrigh
The 'I Can' Method (book) - https://amzn.to/40pT3NE
The "I Can Method (Kindle) - https://amzn.to/3TF9YYP 
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When the Mirror Breaks: What Real Beauty Looks Like: Christine Handy - Part 2

“You don't have to be whole on the outside to be beautifully complete on the inside."
In this deeply moving episode, Christine Handy returns to the podcast to share the next chapter of her incredible journey from breast cancer survivor to best-selling author, fashion disruptor, and motivational powerhouse. Stacey and Christine dive into how Christine transformed personal tragedy into a mission of hope, love, and advocacy.
From facing over 29 surgeries to walking the runways of New York Fashion Week with a concave chest, Christine redefines courage and beauty. She shares insights into her book "Walk Beside Me," her film "Hello Beautiful," and the angelic friendships that sustained her through her darkest days. This conversation is not just about survival—it's about thriving, serving, and building a life of meaning and impact.
What You'll Learn:
The emotional and physical realities of Christine's cancer journey
How accepting help became a turning point for healing
The importance of community, especially among women
Why Christine views her friends as 'angels' and how they changed her life
How she disrupted the fashion and film industries with her story and body
Strategies for combating negative self-talk and embracing internal beauty
Why redefining service and purpose can bring unfiltered joy
Christine Handy is an American author, motivational speaker, and breast cancer survivor who has turned her pain into purpose. She gained widespread recognition with her fictionalized memoir Walk Beside Me, which explores the healing power of friendship and faith. Once a prominent model, Christine's life took a drastic turn following her diagnosis of aggressive breast cancer. Through resilience and spiritual growth, she became a beacon of hope for countless women.
Christine is a fierce advocate for self-worth, cancer awareness, and the redefinition of beauty. She's walked runways with a concave chest, proving that true beauty radiates from within. Her latest venture, the film adaptation Hello Beautiful, won Best Film at the Beverly Hills Film Festival.
Connect with Christine:
Website: christinehandy.com
Instagram: @christinehandy1
Book: Walk Beside Me on Amazon
On Kindle
If Christine's story moved you, please subscribe to the podcast, leave a heartfelt review, and share this episode with a friend who needs to hear that beauty, strength, and purpose come from within. Join our community and reimagine what it means to live a life full of courage and connection.
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Model. Survivor. Warrior. The Real Story of Christine Handy. Part 1

“It took nearly dying to realize how much I want to live.”
In this deeply moving episode, Christine Handy shares her extraordinary journey from a successful modeling career to facing life-altering health challenges, including a breast cancer diagnosis.
Christine opens up about her transformation from focusing on external beauty to discovering inner strength and purpose. She discusses her battles with illness, the power of faith and friendship, and her mission to inspire others through her story. Listeners will gain insight into Christine's resilience, her return to the modeling world post-recovery, and her dedication to empowering others facing adversity.
What You’ll Learn:
The impact of redefining self-worth beyond physical appearance
How faith and community support can be pivotal during health crises
The journey of returning to one's passion after life-changing events
Insights into the emotional and psychological aspects of battling serious illness
The importance of sharing personal stories to inspire and uplift others
Christine Handy is a mother, breast cancer survivor, international speaker, print and runway model, bestselling author, and humanitarian. Starting her modeling career at age 11, she worked with brands like Guess, J. Crew, and Target. After facing significant health challenges, including a breast cancer diagnosis at 41, Christine turned her experiences into a mission to help others. She authored the novel Walk Beside Me, inspired by her journey, and is actively involved in charitable organizations supporting women undergoing cancer treatment.
Connect with Christine:
Website: https://www.christinehandy.com
Instagram: @christinehandy1
LinkedIn: Christine Handy
Resources & Links:
Christine's Book: Walk Beside Me
Kindle Book: Walk Beside Me
EBeauty Community: https://www.ebeauty.com
Learn Look Locate: https://learnlooklocate.com
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A Life in Harmony: Love, Loss, and Legacy with Ilene Graff

"There is no timeline for grief—only the courage to feel, heal, and keep walking forward."
In this deeply heartfelt episode, host Stacey sits down with beloved actress and singer Ilene Graff for an intimate conversation about love, loss, and the raw journey of widowhood. Ilene shares poignant stories of her late husband, composer Ben Lanzarone, and the profound partnership they shared in life and music. The conversation unfolds into a powerful exploration of grief, identity, and healing, as Stacey and Ilene connect over their shared experiences of losing their life partners to cancer.
They discuss the unexpected challenges of navigating solo life, reclaiming independence, and rediscovering joy. With warmth, honesty, and even laughter, Ilene offers a touching tribute to Ben while inspiring others to honor their own path through loss. This episode is a testament to resilience, memory, and the enduring power of love.
What You'll Learn:
The emotional complexities of grief and widowhood
How Ilene Graff rediscovered herself after the loss of her husband
The importance of giving yourself grace through the grieving process
Why creating a new identity after loss is both challenging and freeing
How music, creativity, and community play a role in healing
The impact of showing up for yourself, one small step at a time
Ilene Graff is an acclaimed actress, singer, and vocal coach, best known for her role as Marsha Owens on the hit sitcom Mr. Belvedere. With a rich career spanning Broadway, television, and music, Ilene has also taught vocal performance to adults rediscovering their love for music. Married to composer Ben Lanzarone for over 46 years, Ilene now speaks candidly about navigating life after loss while embracing new creative journeys. 
Connect with Ilene:
IleneGraff.com
Listen to Ilene on Apple Music
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Travel Smarter, Not Harder: Tips from Travel Tips by Laurie

"Whether you're navigating TSA lines or dining in a foreign country, Laurie brings practical advice and heartfelt stories to help every traveler feel prepared, respectful, and inspired."
In this engaging episode, Stacey sits down with travel educator and content creator Laurie of Travel Tips by Laurie to explore the art and mindset of modern travel. From her journey into content creation sparked by a trip to Waco, Texas, to her now-thriving YouTube channel, Laurie shares how she evolved her platform to become a go-to resource for travelers of all types. 
The conversation touches on essential topics like navigating airport chaos, cultural etiquette while dining abroad, traveling with kids, the nuances of Real ID and passport readiness, and the joy of discovering new destinations with friends. They also delve into travel frustrations, emergency preparedness, travel products Laurie swears by, and her excitement for an upcoming adventure to Cuba. Packed with practical tips and heartfelt anecdotes, this episode is a must-listen for travelers seeking both savvy advice and inspiration.
What You’ll Learn
How Laurie transitioned her YouTube channel into a travel-focused resource
Why cultural etiquette matters more than ever when traveling
The importance of Real ID and passport readiness for air travel
Essential packing and comfort items for international trips
Tips for traveling with children and maintaining sanity
How to navigate travel frustrations with grace and preparation
Why the U.S. Embassy is a crucial safety net when traveling abroad
Laurie’s favorite travel destinations and companion tips
Why it's never too late to become a confident, prepared traveler
Laurie is a travel content creator, educator, and the insightful voice behind the Travel Tips by Laurie YouTube channel. A former teacher, Laurie combines her knack for instruction with a deep passion for global exploration to help travelers of all backgrounds prepare for safe, smart, and culturally aware adventures.
Her videos offer straightforward, experience-backed advice on everything from airport navigation to packing must-haves, all delivered with warmth and practicality. Laurie’s approachable style and deep empathy for travel anxieties make her a trusted guide for both new and seasoned travelers. When she’s not filming or sharing her latest tips, Laurie loves planning group travel adventures, including a much-anticipated journey to Cuba.
Connect with Laurie
YouTube: Travel Tips by Laurie
Instagram: @traveltipsbyLaurie
Recommended Travel Essentials
Phone Prop for Travel
Power Bank Solar Power
Venty Fan
Helpful Travel Websites
TSA PreCheck
Global Entry; Global Entry Enrollment Centers
REAL ID
NJMVC REAL ID
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I’m Not Angry, Dammit - I’m Passionate - Susan Powter

In this raw, revelatory conversation, fitness icon and truth-teller Susan Powter joins the show for a deep dive into life after fame, motherhood, resilience, and the cost of authenticity in a world that prefers polished over powerful. Susan became a household name in the 90s with her platinum buzz cut and explosive call to “Stop the Insanity!” But behind the bestselling books, national TV appearances, and cultural stardom lies a fierce, intelligent, and deeply self-aware woman who defied the odds, dismantled the fitness industry’s toxic myths, and reclaimed her voice after being “produced out of herself.”
In this wide-ranging discussion, Susan opens up about her meteoric rise, the fallout of being commodified, and the painful—but ultimately empowering—return to her core purpose: wellness, truth, and community. From battling industry gatekeepers to raising three sons solo, from launching her new book to delivering UberEats to stay afloat, Susan proves once again she is a force of nature who doesn’t just survive—she reinvents.
"You don’t need permission to own your truth—just the guts to say it out loud."
What You’ll Learn
The real story behind Stop the Insanity and Susan’s grassroots rise from single mom to fitness icon.
Why lean muscle and oxygen still matter more than any diet fad.
How Susan reclaims wellness as a political act in a world poisoned by processed food and patriarchal systems.
The personal cost of celebrity, exploitation, and creative silencing—and why she walked away.
Susan’s thoughts on aging, invisibility, and the radical power of elder women.
The truth about raising three sons alone, the art of walking away from toxic deals, and the power of starting over—again and again.
Why she believes the most dangerous creature on Earth is a pissed-off woman armed with truth.
Susan Powter is a New York Times bestselling author, motivational speaker, and former TV host who gained fame in the early 90s with her no-nonsense approach to fitness and health. Known for her buzzcut and signature catchphrase "Stop the Insanity!", Susan challenged diet culture head-on, advocating for sustainable wellness rooted in facts, food, and female empowerment. 
Her influence spanned books, infomercials, speaking tours, and a syndicated talk show. After stepping away from the spotlight, she’s reemerged with a powerful new memoir, a forthcoming documentary, and a podcast titled If You Live in a Human Body. She remains a fierce voice for truth, freedom, and holistic living.
Connect with Susan & Check Out her Books!
Instagram:  @susanpowter
Facebook: @susanpowteronline
Her current memoir: And Then Em Died… Stop the Insanity!
Check out the rest of her books.
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If you loved this episode, leave us a review and remember: it’s never too late to start. You just have to take the first step.