In this special solo episode of Penny for Your Shots, I took a moment to reflect from one of my happiest places—Siesta Key Beach. The calm waters, warm sand, and joyful sounds of beachgoers reminded me of what matters most: gratitude, connection, and answering life’s callings, even when they scare us.

As I sit here recording with my toes in the sand, I want to share stories, lessons, and a little humor about why I started this podcast, how I overcame my fears, and why it’s never too late to do the thing that’s been on your heart.

Thirsty Thursday and Thanksgiving: Time for Gratitude

This week, Thirsty Thursday also falls on Thanksgiving, and it feels so fitting to release this episode today. Back in Iowa, I’ll soon be surrounded by my husband Jeff’s big, fun-loving family at his mom’s house. It’ll be full of Bloody Marys, wine, laughter, football on TV, Christmas planning, and maybe even a competitive game of euchre.

It’s a far cry from how I grew up (a story for another time), but it’s a reminder to be grateful for the family we are given and the family we choose. I hope you, too, are surrounded by love and joy, enjoying your favorite traditions—or maybe making some new ones this year.

Siesta Key: My Happy Place

Before I headed back to chilly Iowa, I spent a day at Siesta Key Beach—a place that’s become my sanctuary. It’s calm, peaceful, and filled with joy. Whether it’s ladies laughing over cocktails or families soaking up the sun, there’s a spirit of connection here that fills my heart.

But this love for the beach didn’t always exist. I used to be terrified of water. In fact, I’ve had some less-than-magical experiences with the ocean that I can laugh about now.

That Time I Got Rescued at the Outer Banks

Years ago, on a work trip with Jeff, I found myself at the Outer Banks—a beautiful place with waves that are, well, less than forgiving. Jeff convinced me to wade into the water, promising to stay close by. Famous last words.

Before I knew it, a wave knocked me down. I tried to stand up, but another wave hit me, and I started to panic. Then came the wave that rolled me head over heels, and I lost all sense of up and down. I thought, Oh, this is it.

Just as I felt my fear hit its peak, I felt a hand on my wrist—it was Jeff’s boss’s wife, TJ, who yanked me to safety. I stood there gasping and coughing, only to realize my swimsuit had shifted in the chaos, leaving me exposed. I quickly covered up, laughed through the embarrassment, and turned to see Jeff’s co-workers absolutely losing it on the shore.

It wasn’t funny at the time, but looking back, it’s a story I treasure—a reminder that sometimes we face our fears, sometimes we get knocked down, and sometimes we just need someone to lend us a hand.

Why I Started This Podcast

The beach has taught me a lot about life—about facing fears, finding calm, and leaning into joy. And honestly, starting this podcast felt a lot like wading into those uncertain waters. It was scary. I didn’t know if I could do it. I didn’t know where it would lead. But I knew one thing: I didn’t want to look back years from now and regret not trying.

So, why Penny for Your Shots?

• I wanted to share stories that deserve to be heard.

• I wanted to lift women up, remind us all that we are worthy of our dreams.

• And I wanted to share the laughter, the wine, the moments of connection that make life beautiful.

Creating this podcast hasn’t been easy. I had to learn how to record, edit, add music, create artwork, write emails, and market it all. It’s been a steep learning curve, but it’s been worth every moment.

Overcoming Doubts and Keeping Promises

I knew there would be challenges along the way—moments of doubt, fear, and wondering if I was good enough. So, before I started, I wrote a contract to my 7-year-old self. I found a photo of that little girl and promised her that I wouldn’t quit, that I wouldn’t let her dreams go unheard.

If you’re on the edge of starting something new—something that lights you up but scares you, too—write your own contract. Make a promise to yourself. You are worth the effort, the learning, and the joy that comes from doing the thing that calls to your heart.

Final Thoughts: Gratitude and Growth

As I wrap up this episode, I’m filled with gratitude—for this beach, for the podcast, for the stories we’ve shared, and for all of you listening. Life has a funny way of calling us out of our comfort zones, and when we answer that call, amazing things happen.

So, pour yourself a drink with an umbrella, picture your toes in the sand, and take a moment to be grateful for the journey you’re on. Whether you’re starting something new, leaning on loved ones, or simply soaking in a moment of peace, know that you are exactly where you’re meant to be.

Thank you for being here. Cheers to gratitude, to growth, and to never letting fear keep us from the things we love.