Play It Brave Podcast

The podcast for brave creatives who live in a world that wants you to play it safe. It's time to face facts: You are an indestructible woman fused with super powers that defy convention. Am I right? If so, then this podcast is for you! In Play It Brave, D'Arcy Benincosa dives in deep to her wit and wisdom to teach you about creative a life full of mindset, money, and marketing miracles! Let's get started!

From Scarcity to Confidence: Collaboration in the Creative Industry with Carrie Moe 08/28/2025

From Scarcity to Confidence: Collaboration in the Creative Industry with Carrie Moe On today’s episode of Play It Brave, I’m joined by my dear friend, the incredible creative and leader, Carrie Moe. Carrie is someone I deeply admire—not only because of her talent (she’s styled for brands like Ritz-Carlton, Fujifilm, and Berta Bridal, and been featured in Martha Stewart Weddings, The Knot, and Brides), but because of the way she approaches her work with confidence, creativity, and so much integrity. We dive into: ✨ Why collaboration is more powerful than competition in the creative industry. ✨ The myth of “falling behind” and how to release the pressure to keep up. ✨ What it means to value your time and treat yourself as a luxury brand. ✨ The importance of community, networking, and in-person connection for growing your career. ✨ How saying no to misaligned opportunities can open the door to bigger, more aligned “yeses.” We also talk about the Hybrid Collective Conference, which is coming to Charleston in 2026. Hybrid has been one of my favorite places to teach, learn, and connect since 2017, and Carrie shares so beautifully about why it continues to be such a transformative space for photographers and creatives. This conversation is a reminder that your artistry is yours alone. The way you see, create, and bring beauty into the world cannot be replicated—and that’s exactly what makes it valuable. About the Hybrid Collective Dreamers, Innovators, Goal Getters...Hybrid was established in 2017 by four industry leaders who saw the need for education and connections within the film photography space. Hybrid continues as a women owned company with a team who seeks to change the world by empowering, encouraging, and connecting with YOU. While we have had our career highlights (Featured in Martha Stewart Print, Harpers Bazaar, traveled the globe for clients) nothing thrills our hearts like seeing a gathering of people come together and leave forever changed. From our ad-on masterclasses, breakout sessions, to our diverse speaker line-up, we cover all of the areas of priority in your business. We dive deep into the knowledge details of how to up-level, covering the details needed to grow a legacy brand and our teachers offer insider tips on every challenge you might face in your business. For photographers across the globe, we have become an inclusive and immersive experience that leaves our attendees' hearts forever changed. P.S. Use code "DB26SC" when you register for Hybrid Collective 2026 and you’ll receive $200 off your admission ticket plus a $425 credit toward my masterclasses at the conference. That’s $625 of value waiting for you — but I only have 10 codes, so when they’re gone, they’re gone! /episode/index/show/thepathpodcast/id/37998120

How to Write Your Story with Marion Roach Smith 08/07/2025

How to Write Your Story with Marion Roach Smith In this episode, I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with the incredible Marion Roach Smith—author, memoir coach, and one of the most no-nonsense, truth-telling voices in the writing world. We talked all about memoir writing—what it is, what it isn’t, and why it’s one of the most powerful tools for making sense of your life and sharing your story with the world. Marion shares how her background in journalism shaped her writing process, and how she developed what she calls the “memoir algorithm”—a simple but profound method to help you find the universal themes in your personal experiences. We also got into the role AI is starting to play in the writing world, what it actually takes to get published, and why she believes everyone has stories worth telling. If you’ve ever wanted to write a book—or simply learn how to express yourself more clearly and courageously—this conversation will light a fire under you. In This Episode, We Talk About: Why writing with intent is everything How memoir is different from autobiography—and why it matters The “memoir algorithm” Marion uses to help writers craft strong, universal stories Why you don’t need to wait for closure to write Her take on AI’s role in the writing process Tips for getting published in today’s landscape The radical act of sharing your humanity on the page Ready to write your story? Marion’s work has helped thousands of people turn their lived experiences into powerful, published work—and after this conversation, I know you’ll be inspired to do the same. Meet Marion Marion Roach Smith is the author of four books, including The Memoir Project, A Thoroughly Non-Standardized Text for Writing & Life (Grand Central Publishing). A former staffer at The New York Times, she has been a commentator on NPR’s All Things Considered and a talk show host on Sirius Satellite Radio. She currently runs a writing lab called The Memoir Project and teaches memoir worldwide at . /episode/index/show/thepathpodcast/id/37715600

Reinventing Your Photography Business at Any Age with Natasha Sewell 07/24/2025

Reinventing Your Photography Business at Any Age with Natasha Sewell Today on the Play It Brave podcast, I’m joined by the ever-inspiring Natasha Sewell—a photographer, educator, and expert in creating heartfelt client experiences. Natasha started her photography business at 41, and if you’ve ever thought you were “too late” to pivot or start something new, you need to hear this story. We talk about making bold moves at any age—whether you’re transitioning from studio to lifestyle sessions, from family photography to branding, or just feeling creatively stuck and needing a reset. Natasha shares how she built a successful newborn photography business, got bored, and decided to pivot toward something that lit her up: documenting motherhood in a way that feels honest, emotional, and artful. We also go deep on client experience—the real kind. Not just prep guides and gifts (though those are great!), but the full journey: from the first click on your website to long after the gallery is delivered. Natasha breaks down how she uses automated emails, product videos, intentional communication, and smart follow-up to create a seamless experience that serves her clients—and sells more albums without pressure. This episode is part pep talk, part business masterclass, and packed with takeaways for photographers who want to create more meaning (and money) in their work. In this episode, we talk about: Starting a business at 41 and why age is actually a gift Making intentional pivots when your creativity is on life support Personal projects that inspire, including black & white film and motion blur How lifestyle sessions unlocked new levels of joy (and growth) in Natasha’s work Why client experience is more than prep guides and presents Building “What’s Next” pages and video libraries to educate clients with ease The real reason your clients don’t order albums—and how to change that The power of automation to create consistency and free up your brain The value of community and not doing this work alone A reminder that your photos (and your life) don’t have to be perfect to be powerful Whether you’re new to photography or 10 years in, this conversation will spark something in you. It’s a love letter to bravery, creativity, and honoring where you are—while still dreaming bigger. Meet Natasha: Natasha started her photography business in 2013 at 41—after years of raising kids and a past life as a teacher. In 2019, she scrapped posed studio sessions for in-home newborn and family photography, chasing meaning over perfection. It pushed her creatively—and she’s never looked back. Three years ago, she added education into the mix. Now, she mentors photographers who are tired of guessing their way through business and want straight answers, honest feedback, and a more thoughtful way to grow. Connect with Natasha: /episode/index/show/thepathpodcast/id/37521240

How to Build an Authentic Personal Brand with Dr. Chelsea Shields - Part 2 07/03/2025

How to Build an Authentic Personal Brand with Dr. Chelsea Shields - Part 1 06/26/2025

How to Be the Second Shooter Everyone Wants to Hire with Jasmine Ortiz 06/12/2025

How to Be the Second Shooter Everyone Wants to Hire with Jasmine Ortiz Ever wondered what it really takes to become a second shooter that lead photographers rave about—or how to find one you can trust with your name, brand, and reputation? In this candid and wisdom-packed episode, I sit down with award-winning photographer and my own second shooter, Jasmine Ortiz, to dive deep into the art, etiquette, and energy of second shooting in the luxury wedding world. With over 200 weddings under her belt, Jasmine brings a decade’s worth of insight into what it means to support lead photographers with professionalism, humility, and heart. From high-pressure moments and awkward vendor run-ins to gear checklists and social media boundaries, we don’t hold back in this conversation. We swap stories, laugh through horror moments (please don’t pitch yourself to the planner during cocktail hour), and unpack the subtle dynamics that can make or break a working relationship on the wedding day. Whether you’re a new photographer hoping to break into the wedding industry, a seasoned second looking to elevate your presence, or a lead ready to build your dream team, this episode is full of real talk and practical gold. In this episode, you’ll learn: What NOT to do as a second shooter (like drinking on the job) How to match a lead’s style and energy so you complement—not compete Why gear prep, clear communication, and a calm presence matter more than you think How to navigate photographing grooms and groomsmen as a female second shooter What to avoid when posting online—and why it’s essential to wait and ask for permission first How to energetically show up in service, not self-promotion Why building trust, humility, and team spirit will get you hired again and again Jasmine also shares her favorite behind-the-scenes moment as a second shooter, how she handles fast-moving situations with grace, and why her second shooter checklist has become her wedding-day go-to. And of course, Jasmine and I reflect on our own working relationship—from Target snack runs to shared values—and how much fun it can be when the lead/second synergy is just right. This is more than just a how-to episode. It’s a heartfelt look into the power of being a solid, grounded, and generous support on a couple’s most important day. Meet Jasmine Jasmine Ortiz is an internationally-renowned wedding photographer based in California. She made a name for herself masterfully documenting irreplaceable moments and polished celebrations. She was named one of the "Top 30 Wedding Photographers in the USA" in 2023 and has photographed well over 200 weddings in her decade-long career. → P.S. Want me to edit your images with the new DB Signature Presets & Editing Suite? /episode/index/show/thepathpodcast/id/36964695

The Midlife Chrysalis: Transforming Crisis into a Calling with Dr. Devaa Haley Mitchell 05/29/2025

The Midlife Chrysalis: Transforming Crisis into a Calling with Dr. Devaa Haley Mitchell What if midlife wasn’t a crisis—but a chrysalis? In this powerful and heartfelt conversation, D’Arcy sits down with spiritual leader and transformational guide Dr. Devaa Haley Mitchell to reframe the way we view this pivotal life stage. Together, they unpack the idea of midlife as a sacred period of unraveling, reclaiming, and radiating—a time of deep transformation that prepares us to emerge more fully expressed, sovereign, and whole. From the rise of the Queen archetype to the cultural stories we’ve inherited about aging, this episode explores how truth-telling, community, and feminine leadership can help us navigate the unknown with courage and grace. If you're feeling the stirrings of change or longing to embrace your next chapter with intention, this one’s for you. Key Takeaways: Midlife is not a breakdown—it’s a metamorphosis. The Queen archetype offers a fresh and empowering lens on aging and leadership. Cultural narratives about aging shape how we see ourselves—and we can rewrite them. Truth-telling is a liberating force for healing and connection. Feminine leadership is intuitive, inclusive, and deeply needed in today’s world. The chrysalis journey unfolds in stages: unraveling, reclaiming, and radiating. Community support is essential during times of transition. Embracing sensuality and creativity is key to holistic well-being. Awareness of societal conditioning can help us reclaim our power and purpose. The unknown isn’t something to fear—it’s an invitation to grow. Whether you're in your thirties, forties, fifties, or beyond, this conversation is a gentle reminder: the unraveling is part of the becoming. And you’re not alone. Meet Devaa: For Dr. Devaa Haley Mitchell, transformation isn’t just a concept—it’s a way of life. She’s dedicated to helping people reconnect with their deepest selves, unlock their leadership gifts, and step into their full potential. As the Co-Founder of The Shift Network, a multiple 7-figure educational platform, Devaa has helped bring life-changing programs to over 3.2 million students worldwide. She’s also built an online summit that served 130,000 women across 160 countries—all while growing her company from the ground up. Through her private practice, Devaa supports her clients with Soul and Strategy Coaching to work on both the “inner” work of feminine leadership as well as the “outer” work of visionary strategy and implementation. She also leads women through a comprehensive Midlife Chrysalis process to gracefully navigate the many changes that happen in midlife. Finally, Devaa offers psychedelic integration as well as microdose coaching to enhance creativity and focus, while mitigating the impacts of anxiety and depression. Devaa earned both her BA and MA from Stanford University. She received her Doctorate in Ministry from Wisdom University (now known as Ubiquity University) and is also an ordained interfaith minister. She was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship for her ecological anthropology work with indigenous groups in the Brazilian Amazon. Devaa also completed her Psilocybin Guides certification through Bodhi Academy in Oregon. Earlier in her career, Devaa was a Management Consultant at the Boston Consulting Group where she consulted with Fortune 500 Companies. She later worked as the founding Executive Director of the Full Circle Fund, a thriving venture philanthropy group, followed by a senior Director role at the Institute of Noetic Sciences. She is also a member of the prestigious Evolutionary Leaders group. In her spare time, Devaa is a musician, and her songs fuse East and West with danceable grooves. Her most recent album, Rebirth, reached #1 on Amazon in the New Age Category. Connect with Devaa: Devaa’s course – Awaken Your Archetypal Feminine Codes: A Guided Initiation Into Your Sacred Power and Leadership – will go live on June 6, 2025. Visit Devaa’s to learn more about her offerings and sign up for her Dynamic Manifestation Video Series, or follow along on . /episode/index/show/thepathpodcast/id/36751675

The Power of Being Seen: Healing Shame and Reclaiming Love 05/15/2025

Cracking the Luxury Code: How to Start Networking with High-End Wedding Planners 05/08/2025

Remembering Our Humanity Through Land, Ritual, and Community with Brooke Benincosa 05/01/2025

Remembering Our Humanity Through Land, Ritual, and Community with Brooke Benincosa In this soul-nourishing episode, D’Arcy welcomes back her sister Brooke Benincosa to share the sacred story of how they co-steward Nightingale Cabin—a healing sanctuary tucked into the Utah mountains—and the vision they’re bringing to life through retreats, land rituals, and community gatherings. Together, they explore what it means to live in deep connection with nature, rhythm, and each other. Brooke shares how she was called to create healing spaces rooted in reverence for the land, and how her journey with nursing, healing, and intuitive wisdom shaped the work she now offers. They dive into the importance of rites of passage, conscious transitions, and returning to simplicity in a world of increasing noise and complexity. You’ll hear stories of sheep-shearing, singing around fires, making bone broth, bartering with neighbors, and cultivating beauty as a way of life. Brooke introduces two powerful retreats that you can join her for: Retreat Dates & Offerings: May 30–June 1, 2025: Purification for Clarity Weekend A transformative weekend at the Nightingale Cabin, where nature meets inner peace. Immerse yourself in a sacred space designed for reflection, healing, and reconnection. Experience the power of sweat lodges, qigong, breathwork, fire ceremonies, silence, community, and reconnection to the land. Sep 5–11, 2025: Lady of the Lake Priestess Initiation Retreat This week-long immersion will take place at a fairytale location in Wales, UK, where we’ll dive into the magic of weaving and remembering. Immerse yourself in nature's beauty as we explore ancient crafts, connect with our creativity, and rediscover the stories that shape us. Whether you’re seeking community, healing, or simply a deeper connection to Mother Earth, this episode invites you to explore what it means to reclaim your humanity in a rapidly evolving world. As Brooke says: “We haven’t even scratched the surface of our full human potential. The land remembers. The body remembers. We just have to slow down and listen.” Topics We Cover: The sacred origins of Nightingale Cabin Building community rituals rooted in earth wisdom Rites of passage, grief work, and feminine embodiment Why simplicity is often the most powerful form of healing The vision for a self-sustaining sanctuary: orchard, barter, and creative play How unplugging from technology can unlock true clarity Why healing doesn’t have to be heavy—it can be joyful, beautiful, and full of song Interested in joining or hosting at Nightingale Cabin? Brooke and D’Arcy are beginning to open the cabin to others who want to host retreats, workshops, or soulful gatherings. A website is coming soon to explore rentals, offerings, and available dates. To Connect or Apply: DM or on Instagram (And yes—"weirdos" are welcome! The playful, creative, heart-led kind.) Meet Brooke:Brooke Benincosa is a registered nurse turned modern day medicine woman. She is an energy worker, reiki master, trauma healer, and wellness embodiment coach. Brooke provides a unique perspective with her certifications in both Eastern and Western healing modalities. Her mission is to guide people on a path of long-term healing and wellness. /episode/index/show/thepathpodcast/id/36378920

From $250 to Luxury Senior Sessions: The Power of Connection & Confidence with Maria Ortiz 04/24/2025

From $250 to Luxury Senior Sessions: The Power of Connection & Confidence with Maria Ortiz In this episode, we sit down with Maria Ortiz—a talented photographer who has transformed her senior portrait business by infusing it with deep emotional connection, thoughtful communication, and bold pricing strategies. Maria shares how she brings excitement and warmth into every stage of her client process, from the first email to the session day. She discusses how her carefully crafted questionnaire helps her get to know each senior on a deeper level, asking questions like “If you could give a TED Talk, what would it be about?” or “What would your perfect Sunday look like?” These intentional prompts not only prepare her for the session but also allow her clients to feel seen and celebrated before the camera even clicks. We also dive into one of the most pivotal moments in Maria’s journey: how she worked through internal blocks to confidently raise her prices—eventually 10x-ing her rates for senior sessions and then doubling them again. Maria opens up about the mindset shifts, investments in education, and personal development work that allowed her to own her value and create transformational experiences worth premium pricing. D'Arcy and Maria discuss the concept of your "internal money thermostat," how subconscious beliefs about money can hold us back, and the importance of expanding your capacity to receive. Whether you’re a photographer or creative entrepreneur, this conversation is filled with wisdom on fostering connection, courageously raising your rates, and leading a heart-centered business. WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: How to use pre-session questionnaires to build genuine connection with clients The kinds of questions Maria asks to go beyond surface-level rapport Why emotional presence is essential in photography (and all client-based work) The internal shifts required to raise your prices with confidence Maria’s step-by-step process of going from $250 to premium luxury pricing Why doing personal money mindset work is essential to business growth MEET MARIA: Maria is a high school senior photographer in the Baltimore, MD area, highly sought-after for the luxury experience she provides for her clients. Originally from Ecuador, Maria considers herself a citizen of the world, with traveling as her foremost passion. Her experiences living in various countries have allowed her to meet people from diverse backgrounds, enhancing her ability to create deep, emotional and meaningful relationships. Maria believes that these connections are essential to both her photography and her coaching, as they form the foundation for true and impactful interactions. With over 23 years of photography experience and a specialization in senior portraits for the past six years, Maria has found her true passion in this genre. She is dedicated to crafting empowering and confidence-boosting experiences for each of her young clients, building trust and making them feel seen and valued. In recent years, Maria has expanded her influence by publishing articles, speaking at conferences and coaching fellow senior photographers on streamlining their businesses, creating a strong portfolio and presence they are proud of, believing in them themselves and the experience they provide as photographers to ultimately help increase their income. Maria's true passion lies in empowering other photographers to believe in their capabilities and to value their time and money. DOWNLOAD MARIA’S FREE GUIDE: CONNECT WITH MARIA: /episode/index/show/thepathpodcast/id/36288300

The 20-Year Age Gap Between Me and My Man 04/17/2025

I Checked Myself Into a Hospital in India for 21 Days 04/10/2025

I Checked Myself Into a Hospital in India for 21 Days I didn’t just go to India. I checked myself into a hospital for 21 days. I let go of my business, my routine, my Western way of life—and I surrendered to a deep, ancient healing process. I was bathed by women half my size, scrubbed down with herbs, and forced to slow down in a way I never had before. This is what happened. Why I Did This I reached a breaking point. Numb toes, neuropathy, panic attacks, extreme stress, feeling trapped in my body—it all led me to this decision. My body was screaming at me. And I knew I needed something more than another diet, another break, another surface-level fix. I discovered Pancha Karma, an ancient Ayurvedic cleanse for detoxing not just the body, but the mind and soul. I decided to go all in. I closed down my business, leaving everything behind. Arrival at Vaidyagrama: Entering Another World This was a hospital—not a spa. There were basic rooms, strict routines, and repetitive rituals. Getting naked was a daily ritual. The towels were tiny, and loincloths were used for coverage. For the first time, I was truly seen. The doctors and staff infused ancient wisdom with medicine. Prayer and spiritual connection were a part of every treatment. Everything was done with deliberate slowness. There was no soap, no shampoo, no rushing—just pure, purposeful care for the body. The Treatments: Surrendering to the Process Red juice treatment. I lay on a wooden slab, while three tiny Indian women poured warm red juice over my body again and again, staining my skin crimson. Oil massages & herbal scrubs. I was massaged daily by women who saw bodies in a way I never had—practical, neutral, without judgment. Ghee treatment. I was fed butter and broth for 21 days. As this happened, it was not only my body that became cleansed, but also my mind in its relationship to food. Everything here was intentional. Every drop of oil, every movement, every prayer. It was about more than the body—it was about resetting something deep inside me. My Body Was No Longer an Enemy Western culture teaches us to battle our bodies. Ayurveda teaches us to nurture, honor, and support them. For the first time in my life, I wasn’t trying to change my body. I was caring for it. I released old narratives. My body isn’t something to fix—it’s something to listen to. What shifted for me: I stopped seeing my size as "wrong." I understood slowness as healing instead of laziness. I learned to receive care instead of always giving. What I Took Home with Me The real healing started after I left. In the West, we treat exhaustion like a badge of honor. In India, I learned that rest is sacred. I made changes in my daily life—diet, movement, self-talk, and most importantly, prioritizing inner peace over external productivity. Closing Thought Would I do it again? Absolutely. This wasn’t just a cleanse. It was a complete reset—of my body, my mind, and the way I relate to myself. And I think more of us need that. /episode/index/show/thepathpodcast/id/36085850

10 Days in Silence: How Vipassana Meditation Rewired My Brain 03/14/2025

Your Signature Style: Becoming an Industry of One 03/11/2025

How to Create a Luxury Brand: The 4 Levels of Prestige Branding 12/19/2024

How to Establish Trust with New Audiences 12/12/2024

5 Things All Business Owners Need to Know About Branding 12/05/2024

From Freebie to Booked. Get My Funnel Secrets! 11/21/2024

REPLAY: How to Create Viral Content with Hilary Billings 11/12/2024

REPLAY: How to Create Viral Content with Hilary Billings In this episode, Hilary Billings, a viral content creator and CEO of Attentioneers, shares her expertise in capturing and keeping attention online. She discusses her journey in understanding the intentional nature of viral videos and the struggle to create successful content. Hilary highlights the key components of successful viral videos and the importance of understanding different platforms and their audiences. She also emphasizes the constant changes in algorithms and the need for quality content. Hilary introduces the viral video blueprint, which includes a three-part guide to creating engaging videos. The guide focuses on grabbing attention, sparking emotion, and providing value to the audience. The conversation explores the key elements of creating viral content, including the power of emotion, the importance of creating a curiosity gap, attention-grabbing hooks, video length and engagement, editing and equipment, and the viral video blueprint. The guest, Hilary, provides valuable insights and practical tips for content creators to improve their content and increase their chances of going viral. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the psychology of attention and leveraging it to create engaging and shareable content. Hilary also offers a free resource, the viral video blueprint, to help content creators generate ideas and improve their content creation process. Hit play! Meet Hilary: Hilary Billings is the Co-Founder and CEO of Attentioneers- where she helps entrepreneurs and personal brands drive revenue by creating content their audiences care about. Having grown her own following from 0-400k followers in 40 days, and garnered over a billion organic views in under 12 months, Hilary understands the psychology of capturing and keeping attention online. Her agency not only works with internationally recognized brands and celebrity influencers, but also collaborates directly with TikTok as members of their Advisory Board. A certified personal brand strategist, Hilary has worked with a gamut of high-performing entrepreneurs, including billionaires, Victoria’s Secret models, and New York Times best-selling authors. A former Miss Nevada, journalist, and on-camera host, Hilary has also worked with traditional media outlets including USA Today, E! News, and Extra!. Considered an authority on personal branding and short-form video strategy, Hilary’s insights have been featured in Entrepreneur, Huffington Post, and Forbes. /episode/index/show/thepathpodcast/id/33898622