Today’s special episode is hosted by Navigate Brand Experience Specialist, Kinzy Gillespie, and features Alysa Goethe, Miss Iowa 2023, as she shares her inspiring story of advocacy, resilience, and community impact. Opening up about her journey with Type 1 diabetes and how it fueled her passion for making a difference, Alysa discusses navigating the challenges of being a public figure, including dealing with societal expectations and protecting her mental well-being in the face of online scrutiny.

Alysa's story is one of empowerment that demonstrates how to transform personal challenges into opportunities for growth and positive change - a timely reminder of the importance of gratitude, kindness, and using our platforms for good on this day of Thanksgiving.

🎯 BIGGEST TAKEAWAY [47:34]: "Always choose kindness and always choose to invest in yourself... Whatever it is that will ultimately better yourself is always worth it." Learn how to make a difference and prioritize personal growth as Alysa shares her insights on kindness, self-care, and pursuing your passions.

⚠️ WAKE-UP CALL [5:10]: "I was so afraid that all of the goals I had set for myself, all of the dreams I wanted to accomplish, were suddenly vanishing before my eyes." Hear Alysa's vulnerable account of being diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at age 11 and how she overcame the fear and bullying to become an advocate.

✨ GROWTH OPPORTUNITY [09:20]: "I now had that outlet of service... that I could use to help others, help myself, and still get to do all the fun things." Discover how Alysa transformed her personal challenge into a platform for good, using the Miss America program to advocate for diabetes research.

⚡ QUICK WIN [43:12]: "Just do it... and do it scared…If you wait until you're ready, that may never happen." Get inspired to take action and pursue your dreams, even when faced with fear and uncertainty.