273. Dogs Save Lives: How Our Four-Legged Friends Boost Health, Happiness & Healing
Turmeric and Tequila™
“Dogs don’t just make life better—they literally help us live longer, healthier, and happier lives.” -Kristen M. Olson In this uplifting solo episode, host Kristen Olson dives into the life-changing impact of dogs—on health, happiness, and healing. From personal stories with her three rescue pups to powerful science-backed benefits, Kristen explores why dogs are more than companions—they’re lifesavers. Discover how dogs reduce stress, improve heart health, ease loneliness, and even detect medical emergencies before they happen. Kristen also shares practical advice for adopting,...
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272. Heart-Centered Investing: Andrew Metzler on Wealth & Purpose
Turmeric and Tequila™
“My definition of success is trusting the universe, stretching for the things I was meant to do, and enjoying them with the people I love for as long as possible.” – Andrew Metzler In this episode of Turmeric & Tequila, host Kristen Olson talks with Andrew Metzler, founder of TLC Property Partners and author of Profitable Mortgage Notes. Andrew shares his journey from ski slopes and adventure travel to financial crisis, foreclosure, and ultimately rebuilding through empathy-driven investing. We dive into: How the 2008 crash reshaped Andrew’s values and business philosophy...
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271. Breathwork & Emotional Healing w/ MJ Renshaw (How to Cry)
Turmeric and Tequila™
"Healing doesn’t happen overnight—it’s one step, one breath, one choice at a time. Your body already knows the way; you just have to listen." – MJ Renshaw In this episode of Turmeric & Tequila, host Kristen Olson (KO) sits down with MJ Renshaw—breathwork facilitator, author, podcast host, and founder of . Breathwork educator and author MJ Renshaw joins KO to unpack the science and soul of emotional release—why crying is healthy, how suppressed emotions show up in the body, and simple ways to regulate your nervous system. We cover psychoneuroimmunology...
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270. Hi, I’m Kristen Olson (KO) — Athlete, Entrepreneur & Podcaster
Turmeric and Tequila™
"If my core values aren’t aligned, I can’t just show up and perform—I literally can’t do it. Knowing who you are and living in alignment is everything." – Kristen Olson In this special solo episode, host Kristen Olson (aka KO) reintroduces herself to the Turmeric & Tequila™ community. With over 250 episodes behind her, KO opens up about her journey—growing up in Colorado, competing as a Division I lacrosse captain, facing the challenges of injury and identity loss, and later becoming a 5x CrossFit Games athlete. She shares how sports shaped her resilience, why core...
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269. Strength & Purpose with Melissa Perlman of Bikini Bootcamp
Turmeric and Tequila™
"Strength is more than muscle—it’s the courage to keep showing up for yourself, day after day." – Melissa Perlman In this episode of Turmeric & Tequila™, Kristen Olson sits down with Melissa Perlman, founder of Bikini Bootcamp and Amansala Eco Chic Resort, for a dynamic conversation on fitness, resilience, and building a life of purpose. Melissa shares her inspiring journey of creating world-renowned wellness retreats, leading with authenticity, and redefining strength in every aspect of life. From the beaches of Tulum to the lessons learned through entrepreneurship,...
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268. Yes, I Have Bad Days Too: Mental Health & Real Leadership
Turmeric and Tequila™
"Bad days don’t make you weak—they make you human." – Kristen Olson In this solo episode of Turmeric & Tequila, Kristen Olson gets real about mental health, bad days, and the truth behind polished social media feeds. She shares personal stories, eye-opening depression stats, and actionable ways to support your mental well-being—even when the world feels heavy. From global data to real-life examples, Kristen breaks down why empathy, community, and honest conversations matter now more than ever. She offers practical tips (like her “When in doubt, work it out” fitness mantra) for...
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267. Wellness at Work: Amy Chambers on Leading with Culture, Clarity & Heart
Turmeric and Tequila™
“Wellness isn’t just a benefit—it’s a business imperative. A healthy culture creates healthy results.” -Amy Chambers In this episode of Turmeric & Tequila™, host Kristen Olson welcomes Amy Chambers—CEO, culture leader, and co-founder of United States of Care. With decades of experience in healthcare, corporate wellness, and organizational leadership, Amy shares powerful insights on building mission-driven teams, creating culture with intention, and balancing bold business decisions with compassion. From leading high-performing teams to redefining what “corporate...
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266. L. Scott Ferguson: Reinvent Yourself & Level Up from Within
Turmeric and Tequila™
“I want people to live in their own purpose… not mine, not someone else’s. If I can help them uncover that, then my time here means something.” — L. Scott Ferguson In this powerful and uplifting episode of Turmeric & Tequila™, host Kristen Olson welcomes L. Scott Ferguson, the founder of and a master of transformation through mindset, vulnerability, and self-leadership. From overcoming personal struggles to becoming a beacon for those ready to “level up their lives,” Scott shares raw insights on building inner strength, redefining failure, and embracing authenticity as...
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265. Global Hiring Made Easy with Valerie Bowden of CRDLE
Turmeric and Tequila™
"If you're serious about scaling, it's time to look beyond borders—Africa has the talent, the drive, and the innovation the world needs." – Valerie Bowden In this episode of Turmeric & Tequila™, host Kristen Olson sits down with Valerie Bowden—founder of CRDLE and a trailblazer in remote talent acquisition from Africa. Valerie shares her journey from solo backpacking across Africa to living in Ethiopia for eight years, and how those experiences led to building a global business that connects companies with top-tier African talent. We explore how ethical hiring,...
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264. Jill Robin Payne on Bempathy®, Real Connection & Communication That Heals
Turmeric and Tequila™
“Banter opens the door, but empathy keeps you in the room.” - Jill Robin Payne In this episode of Turmeric & Tequila™, host Kristen Olson welcomes the dynamic and insightful Jill Robin Payne, MA, LPC-S, LCDC—renowned psychotherapist, author, and creator of Bempathy®. With over 40 years of experience in mental health and communication, Jill dives into how blending humor (banter) with empathy creates meaningful, lasting human connection. We talk about therapy, social media, family dynamics, dating, boundaries, and how to navigate difficult conversations with grace, humor, and...
info_outline"I think that's one of the most beautiful exercises of art and often one of the most pleasant and pleasurable things when you think about an idea and you work to make it a reality."
-Brandon Vargas
Welcome to this episode of the Turmeric & Tequila Podcast with your host, Kristen Olson. Today, we're excited to bring you a conversation with Brandon Vargas, a dynamic artist from Colorado. Known for their unique blend of archery and abstract art, Brandon graduated with a BFA from CU Denver and has been deeply immersed in the arts from a young age. Brandon discusses their experiences growing up in the culturally rich environment of Colorado's Latino community and shares insights into their creative process, guided by intuitive feelings and serendipitous moments. We explore Brandon's role with Meow Wolf and their efforts to promote local artists and make art more accessible. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on creativity, representation, and the importance of community in fostering artistic growth. Whether you're an artist or someone seeking inspiration, this episode offers valuable insights into embracing your unique path. Join us as we delve into the art world with Brandon Vargas on Turmeric & Tequila!
Time Stamps:
00:00 Denver's Vibrant Culture Misunderstood
05:40 Preserving Colorado's Latino Heritage
15:18 Middle School Art Struggles
17:27 Artistic Obsession Through Skill Development
22:39 Teen's Journey: Learning via Bus Rides
29:05 "Guided by Intuition to Friends"
34:33 Embracing Spontaneity Over Plans
38:55 Dream Friends and Regrets
47:40 Creative Motivation: Self, Spite, and Growth
51:09 Pathways to Creative Careers
58:23 Supporting Digital Artists in Denver
59:10 Expanding Art Accessibility & Education
Brandon Vargas:
Brandon Vargas is a Denver-based painter, sculptor, and muralist and is currently an Alto Gallery resident supported by the Redline Satellite Studio Resident program. Brandon has been shown in solo and group shows around the CO, including at Dateline, Redline, Art Gym, Alto Gallery, Bell Projects, and Emmanuel Gallery. Brandon received his BFA in Fine Arts from CU Denver in 2018.
Brandon serves on the board of two arts non-profits, La Serra and Denver Digerati and is the Artist Liaison for Meow Wolf Denver.
Personal Website Link: https://rebirah.art/
Instagram: @Rebirah.Art
La Serra Collective: https://laserracollective.org/
Denver Digerati: https://denverdigerati.org/
Connect with T&T:
IG: @TurmericTequila
Facebook: @TurmericAndTequila
Website: www.TurmericAndTequila.com
Host: Kristen Olson
IG: @Madonnashero
Tik Tok: @Madonnashero
Website: www.KOAlliance.com
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