Spring 2025~ Crystals Spot Mag

Page 1


Crystal’s SPOT MAG

NATIONAL FEATURE

ASHLEY ZELLER

WOMEN TO WATCH: SEWING

SISTERS

SOCIAL MEDIA TIPS

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

AROUND TOWN

WOMAN TO WATCH

EMOTIONAL FORECAST

SPOTLIGHT COMPANY: ICL

NATIONAL FEATURE ASHLEY ZELLER

REAL ESATE TIPS

CRYSTAL’S CORNER

GROWING SOCIAL MEDIA TIPS

page 3 page 4 page 6 page 10 page 12 page 14 page 17 page 20 page 22 page 24

Crystal Clear

Spring is here, and with it comes a season of renewal, growth, and fresh opportunities. At Crystal’s Spot Mag, we believe in celebrating women who are making an impact in their industries, communities, and beyond. This issue is no exception—we are thrilled to bring you an inspiring lineup of features showcasing trailblazing women who embody resilience, creativity, and leadership.

In our Around Town Spotlight, we introduce you to Sharon Murry, owner of Murry Mobile Lab, a game-changer in mobile diagnostic services. Her dedication to accessibility and patient care is transforming the way communities receive vital health services.

Our Women to Watch feature shines on the Sew It’s Us founders, sisters Annika and Leilani Chun. These talented women are keeping the art of sewing alive while building a brand rooted in culture, sustainability, and creativity.

On the national stage, we highlight Ashley Zeller, a powerhouse in the mortgage lending industry. With a passion for helping individuals and families achieve homeownership, Ashley’s expertise and dedication make her a force to watch in the financial world.

We also have valuable business and marketing insights in this issue. Sande Stevenson shares expert social media tips to help you amplify your brand and connect with your audience in meaningful ways. Meanwhile, Anika Jackson spotlights the amazing organization ICL Foundation.

And we’re excited to introduce a brand-new section, At The Table with Hannah! This space, led by Hannah Kueffer, features recipes and menu items to enjoy with your family.

As always, our goal at Crystal’s Spot Mag is to inform, inspire, and uplift. This issue is packed with stories of vision, courage, and success, and I hope it leaves you feeling motivated to take the next step in your own journey.

Thank you for being a part of our growing community of dynamic women and supporters. Here’s to embracing all the possibilities this season has to offer!

With gratitude, Founder & Editor-in-Chief Crystal’s Spot Mag

Crystal Swearingern

Sharon Murry

Sharon Murry, a seasoned healthcare professional with over 25 years of experience, has transformed the landscape of diagnostic testing in Lawrence, Kansas, through her venture, Murry Mobile Lab LLC. email her to schedule a test at test@murrymobilelab.com. The lab operates daily from 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM, offering a range of on-site testing services designed to enhance accessibility and convenience for individuals and organizations alike. foodallergy.com

Murry’s journey in the medical field began as a Certified Nurse Assistant, a role that laid the foundation for her commitment to patient care. Her pursuit of excellence led her to attain certifications as a Medical Assistant and Phlebotomist, culminating in over a decade of dedicated service in laboratory settings. Currently, she contributes her expertise as a Clinical Research Associate with a national medical research company, further solidifying her extensive background in healthcare.

The inception of Murry Mobile Lab was driven by Murry’s recognition of a pressing need for accessible diagnostic services. She observed that individuals with limited mobility, senior citizens, and busy professionals often faced challenges in accessing traditional laboratory facilities. By offering services such as phlebotomy, Point-of-Care testing, and drug screenings directly at clients’ locations, Murry Mobile Lab bridges this gap, ensuring timely and efficient healthcare delivery.

Among the array of services provided, phlebotomy and urine drug screenings have emerged as the most sought-after, particularly by organizations and individuals requiring prompt results. This demand underscores the lab’s pivotal role in meeting the community’s healthcare needs.

Establishing Murry Mobile Lab was not without challenges. Building trust and credibility as a new entity in the healthcare sector required Murry to leverage her extensive experience and professional network. Through personalized consultations and a steadfast commitment to high-quality service, she gradually cultivated

a strong reputation, leading to a growing client base fueled by word-of-mouth referrals.

Balancing the responsibilities of a full-time job, family, and a burgeoning business necessitated meticulous time management. Murry’s strategy involved setting realistic goals, allocating specific time blocks for various aspects of her life, and utilizing organizational tools to maintain progress without compromising personal commitments.

Looking ahead, Murry envisions significant growth for Murry Mobile Lab. By 2025, she aims to expand the client base and service offerings, potentially forging partnerships with additional healthcare facilities. Over the next five years, her aspirations include scaling the business by hiring additional staff, integrating advanced diagnostic technologies, and exploring franchising opportunities to extend the lab’s reach, thereby positioning Murry Mobile Lab as a leader in mobile healthcare solutions.

Murry draws inspiration from her mother, a resilient single Black woman who raised her in Mississippi. The quote, “She believed she could, so she did,” serves as a daily reminder of her mother’s determination. Additionally, the 23rd Psalm, a passage her mother cherished, provides her with peace and assurance, guiding her through challenges and reinforcing her resilience.

To aspiring female entrepreneurs, Murry offers sage advice: believe in your vision, embrace calculated risks, and surround yourself with a supportive network. She emphasizes the importance of organization, time management, and the willingness to seek assistance when necessary, acknowledging that while success requires dedication, it is an attainable and rewarding journey.

Sharon Murry’s unwavering commitment to accessible healthcare and her entrepreneurial spirit have not only addressed a critical need in her community but have also set a precedent for innovative solutions in the medical field.

SEWING SISTERS ANNIKA & LELANI CHUN

Sewing sisters Annika and Leilani Chun, stitch their shared interests into an alterations and design business.

From early childhood, the Chun sisters learned to mend and sew from their mother, Ingrid. “Mom always sewed handmade clothes, dolls, toys, books, and everything growing up. As I got older, I thought, ‘I want to make my own clothes,’” Leilani said.

What is typically seen as a solo hobby became a practice of quality time for the two sisters. “We do a lot of daydreaming together,” Leilani said, recounting hours spent in her apartment with Annika. The two began by building their own one-of-a-kind wardrobes, as well as costumes for special occasions. Annika has a passion for historical gowns and costumes. She recently recruited her sister to help dress their family of seven for an 1860s-themed event in Kansas City.

Leilani is inspired by the act of creating unique items tailored to the needs of the wearer. Melding personal style and utility is the crux of building a wardrobe you’ll love and care to repair as needed, according to her.

Their shared interest in fashion and growing skill-set began to produce a steady stream of requests from members of the Lawrence community.

As demand grew, the two decided to turn their aspirations into a business partnership. Recent and ongoing projects include a bespoke Chanel-inspired jacket, tailored suit coats, a Tolkien-esque gown, quilted coats, custom window coverings, and more.

Need a well-worn item restored to its former glory? Have a vision for something uniquely yours? You can contact Sew It’s Us SewItsUs@gmail.com or 785-409-4870.

Instagram: @SewItsUs

Written by Crystal Swearingen

Igniting Passion and Clarity

Hello, dear friends! As we transition into the refreshing embrace of spring, we step into a season of passion, renewal, and balance. This is a time to ignite our inner fire, align with our truth, and welcome the transformative energy of the season ahead. Let’s explore the emotional landscape that awaits us.

Knight of Wands: Embracing Adventure and Passion

Feel the fiery spirit of the Knight of Wands awakening your heart and soul! This card embodies adventure, enthusiasm, and the fearless pursuit of passion. Now is the moment to embrace your inner adventurer—charge forward with confidence and excitement. Say yes to new opportunities, trust your instincts, and allow spontaneity to guide you. This season urges you to take bold steps toward your dreams and embrace the thrill of discovery.

Justice: Seeking Balance and Truth

The Justice card invites us to reflect on our choices and the balance we create in our lives. This is a season of accountability—where our actions, words, and intentions align with our values. As you move through this period, seek harmony in your relationships and decisions. Approach challenges with fairness and clarity, ensuring that your path is built on integrity and self-awareness.

Queen of Swords: Embracing Clarity and Wisdom

The Queen of Swords calls upon your intelligence, independence, and sharp perception. This is a time to trust your intuition, communicate with confidence, and honor your truth. Speak your mind with honesty and precision, and don’t shy away from making decisions that reflect your authentic self. Stay grounded, embrace your wisdom, and let your insight guide you through the coming months.

Three of Swords: Healing and Growth

While the Three of Swords may bring reminders of heartache or disappointment, it also serves as a powerful catalyst for healing. Acknowledge any emotional wounds you may be carrying, but don’t let them define you. Instead, view this time as an opportunity for growth. Feel what you need to feel, process your emotions, and then rise stronger. Healing is a journey—trust that each step forward is bringing you closer to resilience and renewal.

Ten of Pentacles: Stability and Abundance

The Ten of Pentacles reminds us of the beauty of legacy, community, and lasting abundance. This card represents the support systems that surround us—family, friendships, and the bonds that bring us security. Take time to appreciate the love and stability in your life. Nurture these connections, celebrate your accomplishments, and embrace the sense of belonging that carries you through life’s transitions.

Stepping Into Spring With Purpose

As we move forward into spring, let these energies guide you toward passion, clarity, and renewal. Life is not just about the challenges we encounter but about how we rise to meet them. Surround yourself with love, embrace transformation, and trust in the journey ahead.

Here’s to a season of growth, balance, and inspiration!

With love and clarity, Angie Campbell

The Southern Psychic

ICL FOUNDATION

12 Champions of the Future: How the ICL Foundation is Transforming Youth Education

The Institute for Civic Leadership (ICL) Foundation is revolutionizing education through its innovative Impact Learning Model, creating a new generation of champions, leaders, and changemakers who are making their mark on the world stage.

Founded in 2001 by Kirk Spahn, a fourth-generation educator, the ICL Foundation has transformed over 5,000 young lives through its three-pillar approach: Inspire, Educate, and Support. This award-winning nonprofit has received six Congressional Medals of Service, the United Nations Service Leadership award, and the Dale Earnhardt Award for Community Leadership.

A New Educational Vision

The ICL Impact Learning Model addresses the growing challenges of student disengagement and mental health struggles by connecting education to students’ passions, goals, and lived experiences. This innovative approach maintains academic rigor while incorporating social-emotional learning, character development, and service leadership.

“ICL is a model for change and highlights the power of youth and their ability to directly

impact the lives of others,” notes journalist and author Malcolm Gladwell.

Student Champions Shine Their Light

The success of ICL’s approach is evident in the remarkable achievements of its student fellows:

Charlie Cooper: Born with spina bifida, Charlie discovered wheelchair tennis at age 9 and has risen to become a champion. He won the boys’ singles title at the 2024 US Open Junior Wheelchair Tennis Championships and swept both singles and doubles at the 2025 Australian Open Junior Wheelchair Championships. Named the 2024 Junior Wheelchair Tennis Player of the Year by the International Tennis Federation, Charlie embodies his personal motto: “Disability is the ability to find your talent and inspire others. If you’re not shining your light, you’re not doing it right.”

Sarai Dorismond: A #27th ranked junior tennis player in California now playing college tennis at Babson College, Sarai created “MindSet,” a charity tennis tournament benefiting the National Alliance on Mental Health. Drawing on her own experience with anxiety, she credits ICL’s

emphasis on mental health for helping her personal growth.

Priyali Kulkarni: An actress and filmmaker since age 14, Priyali established “The ABC’s of Filmmaking,” the first filmmaking classes for youth in Stockton, California—the most diverse city in the United States. She teaches students ages 8-13 and high school students both the craft and business aspects of film. Priyali will attend Chapman University on a $120,000 scholarship.

Lujain Khalil: At just 17, Lujain is the #1 female amateur golfer in Saudi Arabia, despite having only four years of golfing experience. This prodigy is dedicated to becoming a professional, representing her country at the Olympics and major tournaments.

The Champion Mentor Series

A cornerstone of ICL’s approach is connecting students with world-class mentors, including tennis stars Novak Djokovic, James Blake, and Monica Seles, political figures like Bill Clinton and Michael Bloomberg, and artists including Alicia Keys and Seal. These mentors inspire students to adopt a growth mindset while developing strong values and an understanding of service leadership.

Looking Forward

The ICL Foundation continues to expand its impact, giving approximately $3.4 million in scholarships for the 2024-2025 academic year, with funding increasing by $1 million annually. Through its incubator school, ICL Academy

(ranked among the top 5 online schools nationally), and various programs addressing youth mental health, the foundation is building a global network of young champions committed to positive change.

As President Bill Clinton observed, “You are the change! Each one of you is taking the necessary steps to be service leaders! Programs like ICL are our future.”

To learn more about the ICL Foundation or to get involved, visit www.theicl- foundation.org.

Anika Jackson strives to create ecosystems where technology, education, and philanthropy converge to address global challenges and empower individuals to realize their full potential as catalysts for change. Your Brand Amplified is her marketing and communications consultancy, and the Your Brand Amplified® business podcast, launched in 2020, ranks in the top 1.5% globally on ListenNotes and in the top 100 on Apple Podcasts in Marketing for the US and multiple other countries. At USC’s Annenberg School, she shapes the next generation of communicators and utilizes her extensive background in public relations, digital media, and strategic communications as a part-time faculty member for the MS in Digital Media Management program and co-host for the Mediascape: Insights from Digital Changemakers podcast. As Executive Director at the ICL Foundation, Anika utilizes her passions to drive charitable initiatives and community impact.

Anika’s industry leadership includes roles on UC Santa Barbara’s Women in Leadership advisory board and Intuit’s Small Business Council, as well as her newest addition, as a member of the International Academy for Digital Arts and Sciences (IADAS) as a Webby Awards judge. She contributes her knowledge and thought leadership to various local, national, and global organizations, from tech startups to nonprofits. Currently pursuing an MBA at Villanova School of Business, Anika is specializing in AI/ML and Marketing and has an undergraduate degree in public administration. As part of her commitment to personal development, she is training with Allan Knight to master-certify in the Zen Power Program. In her spare time, she loves cooking and baking, traveling, and shepherding her 16-year-old daughter through her driver’s permit and a plethora of college tours.

Thriving in the Mortgage Industry: A Conversation with Ashley Zeller

Ashley Zeller’s journey to the mortgage industry was anything but conventional. Having lived in Tennessee, California, New York, and Florida by the age of nine, she eventually found her way to Lawrence, Kansas, in 1998. She quickly fell in love with the Midwest—its breathtaking sunsets, sledding down snowy hills, and, of course, cheering for the Kansas Jayhawks. After high school, she set off for Baylor University in Waco, Texas, as a premed student but soon realized she missed home. Transferring to the University of Kansas, she earned a Bachelor’s in Economics with a Business Minor, setting the stage for a diverse professional journey.

Her career took her through various industries, from working as an analyst for an international clothing company to being a financial literacy and credit specialist. But it wasn’t until Ashley and her husband, Kyle, decided to buy their first home that she discovered her true passion. Their homebuying experience introduced her to a mortgage lender who, after working with Ashley, confidently told her, “One day, you’re going to work for me.” Just six weeks later, she took a leap into the industry and began her career as a Mortgage Banker on May 1, 2017.

For Ashley, the greatest reward in mortgage lending comes at the closing table. She thrives on the process of helping people buy their homes, sometimes as first-time buyers and other times as sellers ready for their next chapter. Educating her clients and referral partners is something she takes seriously, believing that every transaction has its own unique “mortgage DNA.” She enjoys analyzing files, thinking creatively, and finding solutions when others can’t, ensuring her clients achieve their homeownership dreams.

The path to success wasn’t without challenges. In 2018, Ashley found herself in the toughest year of her career. Her husband was deployed, and she was still in her first year in an industry where she had no prior connections. Determined to build her business from the ground up, she immersed herself in networking events, weekly sales meetings, and open houses, making connections one handshake at a time. Her persistence paid off, solidifying her place in the mortgage industry.

Navigating today’s ever-changing market, Ashley guides her clients with one key piece of advice: focus on what’s comfortable for you. Interest rates fluctuate, but the right homebuying strategy makes all the difference. She helps clients craft tailored financial plans that position them for long-term success, whether they are buying now or preparing for the right moment.

One of the most common concerns she hears from clients revolves around credit—how their scores impact their approval and how student loans or credit card debt factor into the process. The biggest misconception? That getting a mortgage is overly complicated and time-consuming. Ashley assures clients that with the right guidance and preparation, the process is surprisingly smooth, especially when documentation is handled efficiently from the start.

Outside of work, Ashley enjoys the simple pleasures of life in Lawrence. She spends her free time exploring nature trails with her two dogs, Zara, a sweet pittie, and Duke, a loyal German Shepherd. With Kyle deployed until early 2026, they’ve taken a few memorable trips together, cheering on their favorite teams—the Jayhawks, Notre Dame Fighting Irish, Baylor Bears, and Kansas City Chiefs. She’s also found a love for cooking, and at the end of a long day, there’s nothing better than sitting on the deck watching a stunning Kansas sunset or unwinding by the firepit with friends.

Looking to 2025, Ashley sees a year full of opportunities. While higher interest rates may seem daunting, they also mean less competition for buyers, making it a surprisingly balanced market. She encourages clients to focus on long-term strategies, knowing that today’s market conditions can provide an advantage to those who are prepared.

Offering mortgage lending services nationwide, Ashley is committed to helping clients buy homes, refinance, or build their dream homes. As a Certified Military Home Loan Specialist and a military wife, she takes great pride in assisting service members and veterans with the VA loan process. Her approach is deeply rooted in education, ensuring clients make informed decisions that align with their financial goals. For the latest insights into the housing market, Ashley shares weekly updates through her social media series, *Zeller’s Economic Tellers*, on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, providing valuable information to homebuyers and industry professionals alike.

For those looking to navigate the mortgage process with a trusted expert, Ashley Zeller offers not just a lending service, but a commitment to turning homeownership dreams into reality.

5 Things You Can Do This Spring to Get Ready to Buy a Home in 2025

If buying a home is on your 2025 to-do list, now is the time to prepare. The housing market is always changing, and being proactive can put you in the best position to find and secure your dream home. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or looking to make a move, here are five things you can do this spring to set yourself up for success.

1. Get Your Finances in Order

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll make, and a strong financial foundation is key. Start by checking your credit score, as this plays a huge role in determining your mortgage interest rate. If your score needs improvement, focus on paying down debt and making timely payments on all bills. Also, take a close look at your savings. A down payment, closing costs, and moving expenses can add up quickly. While many loan programs allow for low down payments, having more saved can give you better loan options and help lower your monthly payments.

2. Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

One of the smartest moves you can make before house hunting is getting pre-approved for a mortgage. This process helps you understand how much home you can afford and shows sellers that you’re a serious buyer. Mortgage applications have been on the rise this year, with a 37% increase according to the Mortgage Bankers Association. That means more buyers are entering the market, and competition could heat up. Getting pre-approved now can give you a head start when it’s time to make an offer.

3. Pay Attention to Market Trends

The housing market is constantly shifting, and being informed will help you make smarter decisions. Right now, buyer demand is on the rise— Redfin’s Homebuyer Demand Index shows a 3% increase since late January, and home showings have jumped 13%. This signals that the market is getting more competitive, especially as we head

into spring and summer, the busiest seasons for real estate. Keep an eye on interest rates, home inventory levels, and local market trends in the areas you’re interested in. Working with a knowledgeable real estate agent can help you stay ahead of the game.

4. Make a Must-Have List

Before you start shopping for a home, take the time to create a list of must-haves versus nice-to-haves. Do you need a certain number of bedrooms? A specific neighborhood? A big backyard? Having a clear idea of what you’re looking for will make the search process easier and prevent you from getting overwhelmed. It’s also a good idea to think about the long-term. Consider factors like school districts, commute times, and future home value appreciation.

5. Connect with a Real Estate Agent

The home-buying process can be complex, and having a professional guide you through it makes all the difference. A skilled real estate agent can help you understand the market, find homes that match your criteria, and negotiate the best deal on your behalf. With more buyers entering the market, working with an agent early can give you an edge. They can provide valuable insights on upcoming listings, connect you with lenders, and help you navigate the competitive landscape.

Bottom Line

Spring is the perfect time to get ready for homeownership in 2025. By preparing your finances, getting pre-approved, staying informed on market trends, defining your priorities, and working with a trusted real estate professional, you’ll be well on your way to finding the right home when the time comes.

If you have questions or need guidance on your home-buying journey, reach out—I’d love to help you make 2025 the year you become a homeowner!

Knowing When to Say YES and NO in Business

As entrepreneurs, we are constantly bombarded with opportunities, invitations, and requests. Whether it’s a collaboration, a business venture, or simply taking on another client, the ability to discern when to say “yes” and when to say “no” can make or break our success.

For years, I said yes to everything. Every opportunity, every client, every event. I feared missing out, losing momentum, or disappointing others. But what I soon realized was that constantly saying yes left me drained, scattered, and struggling to see real growth in my business. That’s when I learned one of the most powerful business strategies: intentional decision-making.

1. Does It Align with Your Purpose?

Before committing to anything, ask yourself a critical question: *Does this opportunity lead me in the direction of my purpose and the future I’m working toward?* If the answer isn’t a resounding yes, then it’s likely a distraction. Not every opportunity is the right one, even if it looks promising on the surface.

In business, it’s easy to be swayed by offers that appear lucrative or exciting. However, if they pull you away from your core mission, they can ultimately slow you down. I’ve learned to evaluate each offer by considering its alignment with my long-term vision. If it supports my goals, I say yes with confidence. If it doesn’t, I say no without guilt.

2. Leaving Space for Creativity

Overbooking your schedule might make you feel productive, but it often leaves no room for creative breakthroughs. Some of my best ideas have come during moments of reflection—not when I was rushing from one commitment to another. Business isn’t just about staying busy; it’s about being intentional with your time.

By creating space in my schedule, I allow room for unexpected but valuable opportunities to arise. Sometimes the best business moves are the ones you didn’t plan but had time to embrace. If you say yes to everything, you might not have the capacity for something truly transformative when it comes along.

3. Reevaluating What Works

One of the hardest but most necessary skills in business is learning to cut what no longer serves you. What worked last year might not be working today. Regularly evaluating your commitments, partnerships, and strategies ensures you’re not holding onto things out of habit rather than necessity.

Ask yourself: *Is this bringing value to my business and personal growth?* If not, it may be time to redefine or eliminate it. Saying no to something that isn’t serving you makes room for something that will.

4. Making No a Power Move

Saying no isn’t a rejection of others; it’s a commitment to yourself. It’s an act of self-respect and strategic thinking. It ensures that your energy is invested in things that truly matter, not just in things that demand your attention.

The more you practice discerning what deserves your yes and what requires a no, the stronger your business will become. Your time, energy, and creativity are valuable resources—spend them wisely.

5. Trusting Your Gut

Intuition plays a crucial role in decision-making. If something doesn’t feel right, even if it looks good on paper, it’s okay to walk away. Many successful entrepreneurs attribute their best decisions to trusting their instincts. If an opportunity makes you excited and aligns with your vision, it’s a green light. If it causes hesitation, stress, or doubt, take a step back and reconsider. Your gut feeling is often your most honest advisor.

So next time an opportunity comes your way, pause. Ask yourself: *Does this align with my purpose? Does it leave room for creativity? Does it contribute to the future I want?* If the answer is yes, embrace it fully. If not, confidently let it go. The right opportunities will always find you when you create the space for them.

CAPTAIN HOUSE

CAPTAIN CASS HOUSE

How to Schedule Content Like a Pro (Without Losing Your Mind!)

Alright, my fellow content creators (or soon-to-be content creators), let’s talk scheduling! Because let’s be real...between keeping the kids alive, managing household chaos, and maybe, just maybe, sneaking in five minutes of self-care, who has time to post on social media whenever the mood strikes? Not us. That’s why having a content schedule is key!

How Often Should You Post?

Now, this is where things get tricky because every platform has a different vibe and a different set of rules when it comes to posting. Here’s the tea:

Instagram: At least 4-5 times a week, mixing Reels, carousels, and static posts. Stories? Every. Single. Day. Keep your people engaged!

TikTok: 1-3 times a day if you want to grow fast (I know, it’s a lot). But at minimum, aim for 3-5 times a week to stay relevant.

YouTube: If you’re doing long-form content, once a week is great. YouTube Shorts? Post as often as you can - daily if possible!

Facebook: 3-5 times a week, depending on your engagement. Facebook loves consistency but also thrives on storytelling posts that keep people engaged.

Now, do you have to follow these to the letter? Nope! But sticking to a general posting cadence helps keep you in the algorithm’s good graces.

The Great Debate: Themed Content vs. Situational Content

Should you plan your content around a theme, or should you just post based on whatever’s going on in your life? Answer: BOTH!

I’ve been doing this for 12+ years, and here’s what I’ve learned: each platform responds differently to niched-down content. Some people thrive in a super-specific niche (think: DIY mom hack or budget-friendly fashions) Others, like myself, focus on sharing real life twin parenthood, marriage, content creation, fitness, and everything in between.

These days, social media is less about the perfect aesthetic (no, your kitchen does NOT need white cabinets and quartz countertops to go viral - shoutout to my brown cabinets and cream countertops that have been going strong for over a decade!). It’s more about being YOU.

People are craving real, authentic content - the mess, the chaos, the truth. So don’t stress about curating some perfect feed. Just show up as YOU, and your people will find you.

How to Schedule Your Content (So You’re Not Scrambling at 11 PM)

There are so many ways to schedule content, and what works best depends on you. Here are a few of my fave methods:

Use a content calendar. (Google Calendar, Notion, or just a good old-fashioned planner.) Map out content ideas for the week/month so you’re not winging it every day.

Batch-create content. Record multiple videos at once and schedule them out. This saves SO much time!

Use scheduling tools. Meta Business Suite for Facebook/IG, Later, Planoly, and TikTok’s built-in scheduler are lifesavers.

Time your posts wisely! Here’s when to post for max engagement:

Instagram: 9-11 AM or 6-9 PM (weekday mornings & evenings = prime time!)

TikTok: 12-3 PM or 7-11 PM (nighttime scrolling is REAL)

YouTube: 2-4 PM (right before that evening binge-watch session)

Facebook: 7-9 AM or 1-3 PM (because folks check FB early in the morning and during lunch breaks)

Final Thoughts (AKA Your Reminder to Just GO FOR IT!)

At the end of the day, social media rewards authenticity over perfection. Stop waiting for the perfect moment post. Start today. Start messy. Start real. And most importantly, have FUN with it!

Stay tuned for the next issue where I’ll be dropping even more content-creating gems!

Instagram: @SocialiteSande

TikTok: @SocialiteSande

Youtube: TheSocialiteLife and TheSocialiteLifeTV

Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/SocialiteSande/

Hi I’m Hannah!

I love Jesus, doing life with my incredible husband, and being a stay at home momma with our four beautiful children. I also love food and preparing food for others! Hosting others in our home or bringing a meal to someone in need are a couple of my very favorite things to do! Over the past several years I have also developed a strong passion for planning meals for our family on a budget! It has given us financial freedom in other areas of our lives and also has taken stress out of my days by not worrying what to cook! If you’re a busy momma raising kiddos and also trying to decide what’s for dinner every night… can I get an amen!?

I’ve always enjoyed and had a love for cooking! I can remember cooking at a very young age with my dad and both of my grandmas! They always made it so fun and allowed me to be creative even when there was a set recipe to follow! Going to the store with my dad to get items just for a specific meal we wanted to make will always be one of my most treasured memories of cooking! Since having our first child 5 years ago and now bringing in our fourth I have had a great opportunity to serve my family in the area of FOOD and fellowship! Lots and lots of food! We eat three meals a day at home.. which means we are cooking, most days, three meals everyday and we eat them all at our table. We believe that eating a meal around the table, even if it’s once a day or over a bowl of cereal in the morning.. it allows families the opportunity to engage in conversation and build stronger relationships. The fellowship that we get to share, praying together and laughing with one another while enjoying a home cooked meal might be one of the greatest blessings we have here on earth.

“They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord’s Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity— all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved.”

Acts of the Apostles 2:46-47 NLT

This past year my wonderful husband Caj encouraged me to put what I have learned about meal planning and budgeting into a guide for others. So I am doing just that and am hopeful to have it finished for you this spring! Our goal is that what took me 5 years to compile and get into a groove for what works for us, might take you one day! I have learned so much and am still learning so much - but I am excited to share with you what we as a family of (now 6) have adapted as our meal planning routine! I hope you enjoy the meals and also the freedom that comes along with meal planning! Thank you for being here! God bless you

Here is my most favorite recipe for a traditional roast beef! I like to serve it with mashed or roasted potatoes, Mac n cheese for the kiddos and homemade bread!

For more recipes and meal planning content you can follow along on my Instagram @atthetable.hannah

Advertise for $500/issue

Monthly and quarterly payment plans available

Advertise for $1000/issue

Monthly and quarterly payment plans available

Sponsorship: $50. Commercial Slot: $100/episode

Local, Regional, and National Distribution

13,000+ IG followers 1100+ fb followers over 100,000 impressions on Issuu.com online editions

Crystal's Spot podcast 5000+ unique downloads Subscriptions available

Crystal Swearingen
Amanda Barclay
Stacie Hulshof
Moriah Miller
David White II
Bethany Harness
Anne Gallagher
Adrianna Swearingen
Sharyn Harley
Brenda Harley
Alicia Ramos

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.