Sash & Soul

Send us a textWhat happens when you've aged out twice, moved to a new state, and decide to give your pageant dream one last shot? For Raechel Warren, Miss Nebraska 2024, that final attempt led to the crown and a transformative year of service that's coming to a close with only 45 days remaining.In this candid conversation, Raechel reveals the powerful mindset shift that finally unlocked her success after years of top-five finishes. "I am her and I just have to go get the crown," she realized, embracing a sense of detachment from the outcome while still pouring everything into her preparation. This balance—caring deeply without being defined by results—created her most relaxing and enjoyable state competition experience ever.The business side of being Miss Nebraska required entrepreneurial spirit and strategic thinking. Rachel approached organizations with a service-first mentality, asking "How can I help?" rather than focusing immediately on compensation. This approach opened doors across Nebraska, allowing her to expand the title's reach to new communities. She also tackled the uncomfortable conversations around appearance fees, working to establish the value of Miss Nebraska's time while ensuring her services remained accessible to schools and nonprofits.As Rachel prepares to pass her crown, she reflects on a year filled with meaningful connections and personal growth. Her message to competitors and future titleholders centers on authenticity: "Whoever she is is exactly what Miss Nebraska needs that year... She doesn't need to be like me."Ready to transform your own pageant journey? Listen now and discover how to embrace both the business and human sides of wearing the crown. Whether you're competing or supporting someone who is, Raechel's insights will forever change how you view the path to the crown and beyond. Support the showFree App Download: Click here to download the Fearlessly Authentic App! Socials: @sashandsoul | @fearlesslyauthenticcoach | @raeannajohnson Websites: www.fearlesslyauthentic.com | www.sashandsoul.com Email: info@fearlesslyauthenticcoach.com April Masterclass: Volunteerism & Service Click Here to Register If you’re looking for more than just surface-level prep—and you’re ready to prepare with strategy, support, and confidence that actually lasts—I’d love to be part of your process. Schedule a FREE Consultation: Book a Call

Send us a textWhat really happens after the crown goes on and the cameras stop? In this brand new series, Crowned & Candid, I’m sitting down with Kaylee Wolfensberger, Miss Montana 2024, to talk about the realities of state titleholder life; the stuff most people don’t see.Kaylee is only 20 and went into Miss Montana just planning to get some experience. She wasn’t expecting to win, and that pressure-free mindset? It allowed her to show up fully as herself… and walk away with the crown. But with that win came a crash course in doing it all—often alone.Unlike titleholders from bigger states with teams and budgets, Kaylee handles everything on her own. She’s scheduling appearances, driving hours across rural Montana, managing her initiative, creating content, going to college full-time, and working a job to fund her Miss America prep. It’s a lot. The mental load is heavy, the learning curve is steep, and the growth? Whew. It’s real.She’s also super honest about what didn’t go as planned—like her piano performance at Miss America. But instead of letting that define her, she found new perspective and turned her focus to growing the Miss Montana program for the next generation.Kaylee’s initiative, Healing Harmonies, brings music education to underserved kids—work that’s personal to her because music was her safe space during a really difficult childhood. Some of the kids she visits will only meet one person in a crown all year… and that person is her.This conversation is raw, real, and full of wisdom for anyone curious about what it actually takes to wear the crown. If you’re a titleholder, a pageant hopeful, or just someone who appreciates honest leadership stories—you’ll want to tune in.Subscribe now for more behind-the-scenes stories from the women who lived it, right here on Sash & Soul. Support the showFree App Download: Click here to download the Fearlessly Authentic App! Socials: @sashandsoul | @fearlesslyauthenticcoach | @raeannajohnson Websites: www.fearlesslyauthentic.com | www.sashandsoul.com Email: info@fearlesslyauthenticcoach.com April Masterclass: Volunteerism & Service Click Here to Register If you’re looking for more than just surface-level prep—and you’re ready to prepare with strategy, support, and confidence that actually lasts—I’d love to be part of your process. Schedule a FREE Consultation: Book a Call

Send us a textFeeling drained by pageant prep? Been there. If you're finding yourself pushing harder but enjoying it less, you're not alone. Burnout shows up in sneaky ways - not just physical exhaustion, but emotional depletion, constant comparison, and that awful loop of "I'm doing all the things… so why does it feel like it's never enough?"In pageantry, burnout can be especially tough because it chips away at the very things that matter most: your presence, your passion, your authenticity. You could have the most polished performance on stage, but if the joy is gone, the judges will feel that disconnect. And chances are… so will you.What I've learned, both for myself and through coaching, is that burnout doesn’t mean you're broken. It's just a signal. A little red flag from your mind and body saying, "Hey, I need a breather." Rest isn't weakness. Stepping back doesn't mean you're giving up. It means you're smart enough to protect the parts of you that matter most.Tune in now to learn more! Support the showFree App Download: Click here to download the Fearlessly Authentic App! Socials: @sashandsoul | @fearlesslyauthenticcoach | @raeannajohnson Websites: www.fearlesslyauthentic.com | www.sashandsoul.com Email: info@fearlesslyauthenticcoach.com April Masterclass: Volunteerism & Service Click Here to Register If you’re looking for more than just surface-level prep—and you’re ready to prepare with strategy, support, and confidence that actually lasts—I’d love to be part of your process. Schedule a FREE Consultation: Book a Call

Send us a textIt's time to zoom out and focus on the big picture: What does it actually mean to be the titleholder? Beyond the wardrobe, the prep, and the preliminary jitters lies a powerful opportunity to create real impact and build the foundation for your future career.In this episode, you'll hear:The difference between volunteering and partnerships—and why one offers long-term value while the other is often short-termA step-by-step guide to developing strategic partnerships that elevate your platform and help you serve with confidence and clarityMindset support for those struggling with imposter syndrome or feeling overwhelmed by the idea of "doing it all"How your service initiative can become a professional launchpad from public speaking to job opportunities to resume buildersIf you're feeling pressure to be "impressive," this episode will gently remind you: do it because you love it. Your platform doesn't need to be perfect, it just needs to be intentional and aligned with who you are and why you care. Support the showFree App Download: Click here to download the Fearlessly Authentic App! Socials: @sashandsoul | @fearlesslyauthenticcoach | @raeannajohnson Websites: www.fearlesslyauthentic.com | www.sashandsoul.com Email: info@fearlesslyauthenticcoach.com April Masterclass: Volunteerism & Service Click Here to Register If you’re looking for more than just surface-level prep—and you’re ready to prepare with strategy, support, and confidence that actually lasts—I’d love to be part of your process. Schedule a FREE Consultation: Book a Call

Send us a textFormer Miss Iowa Chelsea Constantino redefines nutrition by blending biblical wisdom with modern health science in this insightful episode. Inspired by her pageant experience, Chelsea shares how she developed a sustainable, faith-aligned approach to health - one focused on long-term consistency rather than extreme dieting.Her book, The Guide to Eating Biblically in a Modern World, breaks down complex nutrition into seven biblical principles. From cravings to ancient dietary laws, Chelsea connects scripture with science in practical, thought-provoking ways. Whether you're faith-based or just curious, Chelsea's approach offers a grounded, empowering path to wellness. Tune in for a fresh take on food, faith, and feeling your best. Support the showFree App Download: Click here to download the Fearlessly Authentic App! Socials: @sashandsoul | @fearlesslyauthenticcoach | @raeannajohnson Websites: www.fearlesslyauthentic.com | www.sashandsoul.com Email: info@fearlesslyauthenticcoach.com April Masterclass: Volunteerism & Service Click Here to Register If you’re looking for more than just surface-level prep—and you’re ready to prepare with strategy, support, and confidence that actually lasts—I’d love to be part of your process. Schedule a FREE Consultation: Book a Call

Send us a textFear of "backsliding" in pageant placement haunts even the most accomplished contestants. That nagging anxiety—what if I don't do as well as last year? What will people think if I was first runner-up and don't even make top five this time? As a former Miss Wisconsin who lived this exact experience, I understand this pressure intimately.When we've tasted success in pageantry, we often create impossible expectations for ourselves. We compare ourselves not just to other contestants but to previous versions of ourselves, forgetting how much we've grown in a year. This mindset trap attaches our self-worth to placement results, creating a pressure cooker of anxiety that can sabotage our performance.The truth? Every competition brings a completely different playing field. New judges with different preferences. New contestants with unique strengths. And most importantly—a new you with additional life experience and personal growth. Your placement changes don't define your value; they simply reflect the inherently subjective nature of pageantry in constantly changing circumstances.Breaking free requires a fundamental shift in perspective. Instead of focusing on factors beyond your control (judges' opinions, other contestants' performances), direct your energy toward what you can influence: your mindset work, preparation quality, and connection to your "why." When you focus on personal growth rather than placement, you never truly "backslide"—you simply evolve. Support the showFree App Download: Click here to download the Fearlessly Authentic App! Socials: @sashandsoul | @fearlesslyauthenticcoach | @raeannajohnson Websites: www.fearlesslyauthentic.com | www.sashandsoul.com Email: info@fearlesslyauthenticcoach.com April Masterclass: Volunteerism & Service Click Here to Register If you’re looking for more than just surface-level prep—and you’re ready to prepare with strategy, support, and confidence that actually lasts—I’d love to be part of your process. Schedule a FREE Consultation: Book a Call

Send us a textInterview can feel like the most nerve-wracking part of competition, but are you making it harder than it needs to be? In this episode, I'm breaking down the biggest don'ts of pageant interview, including outdated strategies that actually increase your nerves and make it harder to connect with judges.From trying to control the conversation to over-rehearsing responses, I'll explain why these habits don't serve you and what to do instead. Plus, I'm sharing a personal story about a time I was convinced a judge disliked me… only to find out he gave me a perfect score.If you've ever left an interview thinking, I could have said that better, then you won't want to miss this. And if you're ready to take your interview skills to the next level, sign up for my free March Masterclass on Interview Skills. Link below! Support the showFree App Download: Click here to download the Fearlessly Authentic App! Socials: @sashandsoul | @fearlesslyauthenticcoach | @raeannajohnson Websites: www.fearlesslyauthentic.com | www.sashandsoul.com Email: info@fearlesslyauthenticcoach.com April Masterclass: Volunteerism & Service Click Here to Register If you’re looking for more than just surface-level prep—and you’re ready to prepare with strategy, support, and confidence that actually lasts—I’d love to be part of your process. Schedule a FREE Consultation: Book a Call

Send us a textAnxiety about contestant numbers is a persistent yet unnecessary worry in pageantry. From my experience as both a contestant and a judge, I'm debunking the myths that keep competitors fixated on lineup placement instead of performance.Your contestant number is beyond your control, and focusing on it only diverts energy from your preparation. Judges don't score based on order - we evaluate each contestant individually, remembering your energy, authenticity, and vision, not your number.The myths don't hold up. First contestants aren't at a disadvantage, last contestants don’t have an edge, and middle contestants don't get overlooked. Success comes from mindset, confidence, preparation, and connection - not lineup placement.I've been contestant number one at Miss America, and my struggles came from mindset, not order. The key? Focus on what you can control. When you shift from numbers to growth, your results will reflect your effort - not your position in line. Support the showFree App Download: Click here to download the Fearlessly Authentic App! Socials: @sashandsoul | @fearlesslyauthenticcoach | @raeannajohnson Websites: www.fearlesslyauthentic.com | www.sashandsoul.com Email: info@fearlesslyauthenticcoach.com April Masterclass: Volunteerism & Service Click Here to Register If you’re looking for more than just surface-level prep—and you’re ready to prepare with strategy, support, and confidence that actually lasts—I’d love to be part of your process. Schedule a FREE Consultation: Book a Call

Send us a textWorthiness sits at the core of how we view ourselves, yet many of us struggle to grasp this fundamental truth: we are worthy simply because we exist. This episode explores the critical difference between inherent worth and contextual value – a distinction that transforms how we handle rejection, failure, and self-doubt.Growing up with conditional approval taught me to equate accomplishments with worthiness. I became the "responsible one," the helper, the achiever – tying my identity to external validation until failures felt like proof of my unworthiness. Through years of healing, I've discovered that worthiness isn't something we earn but something we remember, buried beneath layers of conditioning and comparison.The most liberating realization? Worth is unchanging while value fluctuates. Worth is who you are; value is how you show up. When rejection happens, it's not evidence of unworthiness but simply misalignment. By practicing authenticity over performance, setting boundaries without guilt, and surrounding ourselves with people who see our inherent value, we can break free from the endless pursuit of external validation.Whether you're weathering hardship, facing self-doubt, or trying to silence limiting beliefs, remember this truth: you are worthy always, period. Your mistakes don't define you. Your achievements don't increase your worth. You are enough exactly as you are, and that will never change. Support the showFree App Download: Click here to download the Fearlessly Authentic App! Socials: @sashandsoul | @fearlesslyauthenticcoach | @raeannajohnson Websites: www.fearlesslyauthentic.com | www.sashandsoul.com Email: info@fearlesslyauthenticcoach.com April Masterclass: Volunteerism & Service Click Here to Register If you’re looking for more than just surface-level prep—and you’re ready to prepare with strategy, support, and confidence that actually lasts—I’d love to be part of your process. Schedule a FREE Consultation: Book a Call

Send us a textLet's talk about breaking stereotypes, embracing confidence, and proving that size has nothing to do with success!In this episode of Sash & Soul, I'm sitting down with the reigning Universal Petite queens - four inspiring women who are using their platforms to empower others and redefine beauty standards. We're getting real about pageantry, self-doubt, and what it means to be fearlessly authentic in a world that often tells us we're "too little" to take up space.Meet the Queens:Teen Universal Petite 2024. Lorena Zoé Maldonado Cobián - Represented and lives in Puerto Rico. A passionate speaker and volunteer who's inspiring young girls to chase their dreams fearlessly. @teenuniversalpetiteofficialMiss Universal Petite 2024, Catherine Gutierrez - Represented Cuba and lives in Miami. A model, nursing student, and education advocate proving that beauty and brains go hand in hand. @missuniversalpetiteofficialMs. Universal Petite 2024, Dr. Shruti Krishna Hegde - Represented and lives in India. A doctor, dancer, and philanthropist balancing medicine and the arts while empowering petite women worldwide. @msuniversalpetiteofficialMrs. Universal Petite 2024, Rachel Betterley - Represented and lives in USA. An art educator and activist using creativity to help children heal from trauma and adversity. @mrsuniversalpetiteofficialWhat's in this episode?The ups and downs of pageantry - What people don't see behind the glitz and glamOvercoming height-related insecurities - Confidence, self-acceptance & standing tall (no matter your height!)Sisterhood & community service - How these women use their platforms for real impactTaking up space - Redefining beauty standards & owning your worthIf you've ever felt not enough, if you're working on your confidence, or if you just love a good, inspiring conversation-this one’s for you!Learn more about the Universal Petite Organization:IG: @universalpetiteWeb: universalpetite.com Support the showFree App Download: Click here to download the Fearlessly Authentic App! Socials: @sashandsoul | @fearlesslyauthenticcoach | @raeannajohnson Websites: www.fearlesslyauthentic.com | www.sashandsoul.com Email: info@fearlesslyauthenticcoach.com April Masterclass: Volunteerism & Service Click Here to Register If you’re looking for more than just surface-level prep—and you’re ready to prepare with strategy, support, and confidence that actually lasts—I’d love to be part of your process. Schedule a FREE Consultation: Book a Call