39. Why You’re Miserable Even When Everything ‘Looks’ Right—Guest Emma Whittard Shares the Fix

nday stories newsletter format? ndayEmma Whittard is living proof that it’s never too late to make big, life-changing moves. Our guest this week shares her incredible journey from a "perfect on paper" life to a truly fulfilling one. We discuss the moment she promised herself never to be inauthentic again and how that choice reshaped everything—from her career to her sense of self.</p> 💡 <strong>What You’ll Learn:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Why most of us don’t know what we <em>actually</em> want (and how to figure it out).</li> <li>The role of boundaries in creating a life that serves <em>you</em>.</li> <li>How to let go of perfectionism and embrace the magic of authenticity.</li> <li>Why happiness isn’t tied to material success—and what really makes life richer.</li> <li>The simple but powerful question you need to start asking yourself today.</li> </ul> <br /></p> 📖 <strong>Emma’s Key Takeaways:</strong></p> <ul> <li>“Authenticity starts with knowing what you want—even if you don’t act on it immediately.”</li> <li>“You matter. Your happiness matters. And figuring it out is worth the time.”</li> <li>“Nobody’s coming to save you—so why not start saving yourself?”</li> </ul> <br /></p> 🎯 <strong>Resources Mentioned in This Episode:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Emma’s coaching community: <a href="https://www.emmawhittard.com/wild-woman-community" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Wild Wom</a>an</li> <li>Emma’s website: <a href="https://www.emmawhittard.com" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">emmawittard.com</a></li> <li>Sharon Blackie’s book: <a href="https://hagitude.org/the-book/" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><em>Hagitude</em></a></li> <li>Join Emma’s newsletter for thoughtful coaching prompts: <a href="https://www.emmawhittard.com" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Sign Up Here</a></li> </ul> <br /></p> 💬 <strong>Join the Conversation:</strong><br /> What’s one area of your life where you need to get honest about what’s <em>not</em> working? Share your thoughts in the comments or DM me on Instagram at <a href="https://instagram.com/thegoldenbrandco" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@thegoldenbrandco</a>.</p> <br /></p>

00:47:28

38. Mid-Week Minisode: Stop Waiting for 2025—Start Getting Found NOW

<br />Feeling stuck on the sidelines, waiting for the “perfect time” to get visible? Spoiler alert: <strong>it’s not about 2025—it’s about right now.</strong><br />In this minisode, we’re cutting through the noise of resolutions and New Year overwhelm to focus on what really matters: showing up as you are, today.</p> 💡 <strong>What You’ll Learn in This Minisode:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Why waiting for the “perfect time” is holding you back.</li> <li>How to ditch the pressure of makeovers and overhauls (you’re enough as you are!).</li> <li>Practical tools to get started on your visibility journey—right now, without overthinking it.</li> </ul> 🌟 <strong>Your 2025 Magic-Making Tools:</strong></p> <ol> <li><strong>The Spell-List Podcast Playlist:</strong> A curated collection of Goldenbrand episodes to inspire and guide your next steps. [Link to playlist]</li> <li><strong>The Mood Board Ritual:</strong> A simple, reflective practice to envision the year ahead with intention and creativity.</li> </ol> 🎧 <strong>Featured Episodes in the Spell-List:</strong></p> <ul> <li><em>Ep 36: Lost Your Sparkle? Three Ways to Zhuzh Yourself.</em></li> <li><em>Ep 35: “I Hate Photos of Myself!” Why We Feel This Way (and How to Heal).</em></li> <li><em>Ep 33: The Visibility Gap: It’s Not Just About Being Seen, It’s About Feeling Safe to Shine.</em></li> </ul> 💌 <strong>Want More?</strong></p> <ul> <li>Sign up for Sunday Stories: <a href="https://thegoldenbrandco.myflodesk.com/starthere" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Here</a></li> </ul> 🔗 <strong>Links & Resources:</strong></p> <ul> <li>The Goldenbrand Podcast Playlist: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thegoldenbrandco/" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Here</a></li> <li>Join the Photo Club: <a href="https://www.skool.com/photo-club-1958/about" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Here</a></li> <li>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thegoldenbrandco/" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Here</a></li> <li>Pinterest for Magic-Making Inspiration: <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/goldenbrandco/" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Here</a></li> </ul> <strong>Ready to stop waiting and start showing up?</strong> Listen now, and take one small action today to get found.</p>

00:18:35

37. Failing My Way to Success: What Being a ‘Bad Photographer’ Taught Me

In this episode, I’m getting real about failure—specifically, my failure as a photographer. I’m sharing why I could never master the technical side of photography, how I found my own way forward, and why that’s actually a win for you.</p> We’re talking about:<br />✨ Why I resorted to a staple gun and Sharpie for my wallpaper (and what that taught me about visibility).<br />✨ How I failed to become a “real” photographer and embraced what felt true for me instead.<br />✨ The difference between sitting with discomfort and knowing when it’s time to pivot.<br />✨ How my failures led me to build a career I love—one that aligns with my instincts, brings me joy, and helps others step into their own spotlight.</p> Plus, I’ll give you practical tips on:</p> <ul> <li>Recognizing when discomfort is a sign to grow or a sign to let go.</li> <li>Finding your own way through challenges (even if it’s unconventional).</li> <li>Following ease and joy to build a life and career that feels like home.</li> </ul> <strong>Key Moments:</strong></p> <ul> <li><em>[0:00]</em> Intro and the wallpaper story</li> <li><em>[3:30]</em> Why I’m a failed photographer (and why that’s great for you)</li> <li><em>[6:00]</em> The problem with perfection in photography (and life)</li> <li><em>[9:00]</em> How I followed what felt right and created my own method</li> <li><em>[12:30]</em> When to sit with discomfort vs. when to pivot</li> <li><em>[15:00]</em> Why I love what I do now: Photo Club, producing shoots, and more</li> <li><em>[18:00]</em> Practical takeaways for your visibility journey</li> </ul> <strong>Takeaways:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Your path doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s to work for you.</li> <li>Failure isn’t an end; it’s a pivot point.</li> <li>Embrace your instincts, find what feels natural, and let go of the pressure to “do it right.”</li> </ul> <strong>Connect with Me:</strong></p> <ul> <li><strong>Website:</strong> <a href="https://www.thegoldenbrand.co/" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">thegoldenbrand.co</a></li> <li><strong>Instagram:</strong> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thegoldenbrand" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@thegoldenbrand</a></li> <li><strong>Join the Photo Club:</strong> Explore the community helping women step into their spotlight.</li> </ul> In this episode, I’m getting real about failure—specifically, my failure as a photographer. I’m sharing why I could never master the technical side of photography, how I found my own way forward, and why that’s actually a win for you.</p> We’re talking about:<br />✨ Why I resorted to a staple gun and Sharpie for my wallpaper (and what that taught me about visibility).<br />✨ How I failed to become a “real” photographer and embraced what felt true for me instead.<br />✨ The difference between sitting with discomfort and knowing when it’s time to pivot.<br />✨ How my failures led me to build a career I love—one that aligns with my instincts, brings me joy, and helps others step into their own spotlight.</p> Plus, I’ll give you practical tips on:</p> <ul> <li>Recognizing when discomfort is a sign to grow or a sign to let go.</li> <li>Finding your own way through challenges (even if it’s unconventional).</li> <li>Following ease and joy to build a life and career that feels like home.</li> </ul> <strong>Key Moments:</strong></p> <ul> <li><em>[0:00]</em> Intro and the wallpaper story</li> <li><em>[3:30]</em> Why I’m a failed photographer (and why that’s great for you)</li> <li><em>[6:00]</em> The problem with perfection in photography (and life)</li> <li><em>[9:00]</em> How I followed what felt right and created my own method</li> <li><em>[12:30]</em> When to sit with discomfort vs. when to pivot</li> <li><em>[15:00]</em> Why I love what I do now: Photo Club, producing shoots, and more</li> <li><em>[18:00]</em> Practical takeaways for your visibility journey</li> </ul> <strong>Takeaways:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Your path doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s to work for you.</li> <li>Failure isn’t an end; it’s a pivot point.</li> <li>Embrace your instincts, find what feels natural, and let go of the pressure to “do it right.”</li> </ul> <strong>Connect with Me:</strong></p> <ul> <li><strong>Website:</strong> <a href="https://www.thegoldenbrand.co/" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">thegoldenbrand.co</a></li> <li><strong>Instagram:</strong> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thegoldenbrand" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@thegoldenbrand</a></li> <li><strong>Join the Photo Club:</strong> <a href="https://www.skool.com/photo-club-1958/abouthttps://www.skool.com/photo-club-1958/about" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Explore the community helping women step into their spotlight.</a></li> </ul> <br /></p>

00:22:31

36. Lost Your Sparkle? Three Ways to Zhuzh Yourself When You Need A Self Love Boost.

<strong>Lost Your Sparkle? Try This.</strong></p> In this episode, Lisa addresses the heaviness and uncertainty many of us are feeling and offers practical tips for cultivating joy and self-care, even when the world feels dark. She shares three powerful tools used in the Photo Club to shift energy and reignite your inner spark: movement, music, and color.</p> <strong>Resources Mentioned:</strong></p> <ul> <li><strong>The Photo Club:</strong> <a href="https://www.skool.com/photo-club-1958/about" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Join Here</a></li> <li><strong>Connect with Lisa </strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/thegoldenbrandco/https://www.instagram.com/thegoldenbrandco/" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>here.</strong></a></li> </ul> This episode is a love note and a reminder that you are exactly where you need to be right now. Tune in for a dose of inspiration and practical advice to help you navigate these challenging times with grace and resilience. 🎧</p>

00:19:59

35. "I Hate Photos of Myself!" - Why We Feel This Way (and How to Heal)

Ever cringed at a photo of yourself? Deleted a picture because you couldn't stand to see your own face? You're not alone. Many of us struggle with negative self-image, especially when it comes to photographs.</p> In this episode, Lisa dives deep into the fascinating "Black Bag" experiment, where a mysterious, bag-clad student attended university classes, sparking a range of reactions from hostility to curiosity to friendship. This unusual tale reveals the science behind how we perceive and accept the unfamiliar, and how this relates to our own self-image.</p> Lisa connects this experiment to her own journey of self-discovery through self-portraiture, highlighting the importance of repeated exposure and facing our "inner critic" to cultivate self-love and confidence.</p> <strong>Key Takeaways:</strong></p> <ul> <li><strong>The Familiarity Principle:</strong> Discover how repeated exposure can shift our attitudes, even towards things we initially dislike (including our own image!).</li> <li><strong>Self-Portraiture as a Tool:</strong> Learn how facing the camera can be a powerful way to challenge negative self-talk and embrace your authentic self.</li> <li><strong>The Black Bag Experiment:</strong> Uncover the surprising story behind this unique social experiment and its impact on marketing and branding.</li> <li><strong>Overcoming the "Ick":</strong> Lisa shares her personal experience of pushing through discomfort and self-doubt to achieve a greater sense of self-acceptance.</li> <li><strong>The Magic of the Photo Club:</strong> Find out how joining a supportive community can accelerate your journey to self-love and confidence.</li> </ul> <strong>Resources Mentioned:</strong></p> <ul> <li><strong>The Photo Club:</strong> <a href="https://www.skool.com/photo-club-1958/about" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Join here.</a></li> <li><strong>No More Bad Photos Course: </strong><a href="https://thegoldenbrandco.myflodesk.com/nomorebadphotos" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>Buy here.</strong></a></li> <li><strong>The Real Girls POV Playbook:</strong> <a href="https://thegoldenbrandco.myflodesk.com/playbook" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Get it here.</a></li> </ul> <strong>Keywords:</strong></p> Self-image, self-love, photography, self-portraiture, The Black Bag experiment, familiarity principle, mere exposure effect, marketing, branding, confidence, authenticity, Photo Club, POV Playbook, video content, social media, psychology, self-discovery.</p>

00:21:38

34. Fearful Fables And Your Powerful Image

As spooky season casts its spell, it's the perfect time to explore the mystical and uncover the secrets hidden within your own image. In this episode, Lisa Haukom weaves together personal stories, ancient folklore, and practical magic to help you reclaim your power and embrace your authentic self.</p> <strong>Listen to this episode for:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Your image holds a powerful energetic imprint that can shape your reality.</li> <li>Self-portraiture can be a fun and transformative tool for self-discovery and empowerment.</li> <li>Creating a safe and intentional space for self-portraiture can deepen the experience.</li> <li>Embracing your authentic self, quirks and all, is the key to unlocking your full potential.</li> </ul> <strong>Resources Mentioned:</strong></p> <ul> <li>The Goldenbrand Photo Club <a href="https://www.skool.com/photo-club-1958/about" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Here.</a></li> </ul> <strong>Connect with Lisa:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thegoldenbrandco/" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@thegoldenbrandco</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.thegoldenbrand.co" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Website</a></li> </ul> Thank you to our partner LACSON RAVELLO</p> Click <a href="https://lacsonravello.com/?dt_id=183365" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a> for 15% off your purchase.</p> <strong>Call to Action:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Share this episode with a friend who loves all things mystical and magical.</li> <li>Leave a review and tell us how this episode has inspired you to embrace your inner sorceress!</li> <li>Join the Goldenbrand Photo Club to connect with a supportive community and embark on your own journey of self-discovery.</li> </ul> <strong>This episode is perfect for:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Anyone intrigued by the mystical and magical aspects of self-portraiture.</li> <li>Those who want to explore the power of their own image and embrace their authentic selves.</li> <li>Women who are ready to reclaim their power and step into the spotlight.</li> <li>Those seeking practical tips and rituals to enhance their self-portraiture practice.</li> </ul>

00:15:35

33. Stop the Scroll: How to Create a Visual Story for Instagram That Magnetizes Your Followers

In this episode, Lisa shares her secrets for maximizing content creation, inspired by a recent trip to Los Angeles where she shot months' worth of photos and videos in just two hours. She provides practical tips and actionable advice on everything from choosing the perfect location and planning outfits to creating mood boards and shot lists. </p> <strong>Who is this episode for?</strong></p> <ul> <li><strong>Busy entrepreneurs and creators</strong> who want to create a consistent stream of high-quality content without spending hours on it.</li> <li><strong>Those who feel overwhelmed</strong> by the thought of planning a photoshoot.</li> <li><strong>Anyone who wants to take control of their content creation</strong> and ditch the need to constantly hire a photographer.</li> <li><strong>Those who are ready to ditch the "perfect grid" mentality</strong></li> </ul> <strong>In this episode, you'll learn:</strong></p> <ul> <li>How to overcome that "overwhelmed" feeling and create a photoshoot that feels aligned with your brand.</li> <li>Simple strategies to capture both stunning photos AND engaging videos.</li> <li>Why "less is more" when it comes to planning your wardrobe and props.</li> <li>The power of a well-crafted mood board and shot list to guide your creative vision.</li> <li>How to embrace spontaneity and capture those magical, unexpected moments.</li> </ul> <strong>Think you need a fancy camera or a professional studio to create amazing content? Think again!</strong> Lisa shares her secrets for making the most of any space and any camera, even your smartphone.</p> <strong>Resources Mentioned:</strong></p> <ul> <li><a href="www.peerspace.com/claim/gr-XjKkKl1e4wkGB" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>Peerspace (Save $50)</strong></a></li> <li><strong>The Goldenbrand Podcast </strong><a href="https://thegoldenbrandco.myflodesk.com/bestphotoandvideoresources" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>Free Toolkit</strong></a></li> <li><a href="https://thegoldenbrandco.myflodesk.com/playbook" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>The POV Playbook</strong></a></li> <li><a href="https://www.skool.com/photo-club-1958/about" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>Photo Club</strong></a></li> </ul> <strong>Connect with Lisa:</strong></p> <ul> <li>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thegoldenbrandco/" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">@thegoldenbrandco</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.thegoldenbrand.co" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Website</a></li> </ul>

00:23:41

32. She's Here to Stay: Women on Fire - Owning Their Power, Changing the World

<strong>Episode Summary:</strong></p> Are you ready to step out of the shadows and into the spotlight? Listen to Photo Club members who've transformed their relationship with the camera, their self image, and their brands. You'll love hearing these generous and real case studies!</p> This episode explores the transformative power of visibility and why it's essential for achieving your goals, building your brand, and making a real impact. Lisa debunks the myth that you need to be "ready" before showing up, sharing her own journey and inspiring stories from Photo Club members. She also provides actionable strategies for increasing your visibility on different platforms and addresses common objections that hold people back. If you're even on the fence about visibility, this episode will change your mind!</p> <strong>Key Takeaways:</strong></p> <ul> <li><strong>The Visibility Gap:</strong> Understand the gap between your current reality and your desired impact, and how visibility is key to closing it.</li> <li><strong>Consequences of Invisibility:</strong> Recognize the missed opportunities and diminished impact that come with staying hidden.</li> </ul> <ul> <li><strong>Visibility Strategies:</strong> Learn actionable strategies for increasing visibility on Instagram and other platforms.</li> </ul> <br /></p> <strong>Follow us! Love the episode? Tag us on Instagram with your favorite episode and we will share it!</strong></p> <strong>Ready for the spotlight? Join the Club!</strong></p> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.skool.com/photo-club-1958/about" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>Goldenbrand Photo Club</strong></a></li> <li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/thegoldenbrandco/" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><strong>Lisa's Instagram</strong></a></li> </ul> A BIG thank you to our Podcast Sponsor <a href="http://lacsonravello.com/the_golden_brand_co" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Lacson Ravello!</a></p>

00:27:06

31. The Energetics of Style with Susanna Merrick: Tired of "What should I wear" Photoshoot Panic? Styling Tips From an Aura Reader

<strong>Ever wondered what your aura says about you? Curious about how to express your true self through your style and photos?</strong></p> <br /></p> Lisa Haukom chats with Susanna Merrick, founder of Aura Wear and gifted aura reader, in a fascinating exploration of personal energy, color, and style. Discover how embracing your authentic self can lead to both personal and professional success.</p> <br /></p> <em>"The way that people experience you are only in frames... the more you just kind of accept that, the easier it is to be like, cool, I can just show up."</em> - Susanna Merrick</p> <br /></p> <strong>Calling all Photo Club members:</strong> Tired of the "What should I wear?" dilemma? Susanna's got your back! Learn how understanding your aura can guide your style and boost your confidence on camera. 📸</p> <strong>What You'll Learn:</strong></p> <ul> <li><strong>Discover your unique energy:</strong> Understand how aura readings reveal your personality and strengths.</li> <li><strong>Harness the power of color:</strong> Learn how to use color intentionally to feel confident and attract opportunities.</li> <li><strong>Dress to express:</strong> Susanna shares her method for aligning your wardrobe with your aura.</li> </ul> <em>"When you can start to have a little bit more say in that world, then it becomes easy and fun on the externals."</em> - Susanna Merrick</p> <ul> <li><strong>Overcome self-doubt:</strong> Hear Susanna's inspiring journey to embracing her authentic self.</li> <li><strong>Build genuine connections:</strong> Learn how authenticity attracts opportunities and fosters meaningful relationships.</li> <li><strong>Align your inner and outer worlds:</strong> Create a life that feels true to you.</li> </ul> <strong>Resources & Offers Mentioned:</strong></p> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/aurawearnyc/"><strong>Susanna's Instagram</strong></a> @aurawearnyc</li> </ul> <ul> <li><a href="https://aurawearnyc.my.canva.site/bethatfeaturedbitchbootcamp"><strong>Be That Bitch Bootcamp</strong></a><br /></li> </ul> <strong>Connect with Lisa:</strong></p> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/thegoldenbrandco/">Instagram</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.thegoldenbrand.co">Website</a></li> </ul> <br /></p> <br /></p>

00:45:18

30. Feel that cringe when someone sees you snapping a selfie? This one's for you.

Lisa Haukom, host of the Golden Brand Podcast, dives into the common fear of visibility that many entrepreneurs and creators experience, especially those with a carefully curated online presence. She shares her personal journey of overcoming this obstacle and offers practical tips to help you confidently create content in public spaces.</p> <strong>Key Takeaways & Action Steps:</strong></p> <ul> <li><strong>Bring a Friend:</strong> Don't go it alone! Invite a supportive and fun-loving friend to help you feel comfortable and capture those perfect shots.</li> <li><strong>Start Small & Familiar:</strong> Begin in a comfortable environment like your favorite coffee shop, where friendly faces and familiar surroundings can ease any anxieties.</li> <li><strong>Gear Up:</strong> Use a tripod and self-timer for stability and control. Lisa recommends the Lens Buddy app or a Bluetooth remote shutter.</li> <li><strong>Practice Makes Perfect:</strong> Start with prompts or inspiration from other creators, and gradually build your confidence.</li> <li><strong>Embrace the Awkwardness:</strong> It's okay to feel silly at first! Have fun with it and let your personality shine through.</li> <li><strong>Don't Worry About the Haters:</strong> Most people are supportive and encouraging. Focus on creating content that feels authentic to you.</li> <li><strong>Play with Movement:</strong> Small, intentional movements can add visual interest without being overwhelming. Think sipping coffee, adjusting sunglasses, or playfully interacting with your surroundings.</li> <li><strong>Tell a Story:</strong> Give your content a narrative arc. What are you doing? Where are you going? What are you feeling?</li> <li><strong>Interact with Your Environment:</strong> Lean against a wall, sit on a bench, or bring a prop to create a sense of ease and naturalness.</li> <li><strong>Remember, Confidence is Buildable:</strong> Each time you step in front of the camera, you're building confidence and owning your space.</li> </ul> <strong>Resources Mentioned:</strong></p> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.skool.com/photo-club-1958/about" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Join Photo Club!</a></li> </ul> <ul> <li><a href="https://thegoldenbrandco.myflodesk.com/bestphotoandvideoresources" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Free Toolkit</a> (includes tripod and remote shutter recommendations)</li> </ul> <ul> <br /></p> <strong>Remember:</strong></p> "You are incredible. You are powerful. You are deserving and worthy of being seen. But you have to start for that to happen." - Lisa Haukom</p> </ul>

00:28:20