We’re beyond excited to announce the launch of the Lake Norman Woman Podcast! This new venture is all about celebrating the incredible women of our community, sharing stories that inspire, and diving into conversations that empower us all to live boldly and authentically.

To kick things off, I sat down with my amazing co-host, Katie Stankiewicz, to learn more about what inspired her to join me on this journey. Katie, owner of Willow Equine and founder of Soul to Sole Connection, brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for helping others heal and grow. Her work with equine-assisted therapy is transformative, and her mission to empower women aligns perfectly with the heart of this podcast.

In our conversation, Katie opened up about what drew her to this project, her vision for amplifying women’s voices, and how she hopes the Lake Norman Woman Podcast will become a meaningful space for connection and growth.

1. What inspired you to join the Lake Norman Woman Podcast as a co-host, and what do you hope to bring to the conversations we’ll share?

In both my personal and professional life, I try to establish a safe space where individuals can share their stories, feel heard, try a different perspective and strengthen their relationships. Our deeply personal stories deal with trauma, comedy, bravery, humility, and rediscovery. By co-hosting the LKNW Podcast, I hope to have a larger impact by supporting women to re-establish connections with themselves and other women. By holding hard conversations, we can heal, learn and embrace all of life’s experiences and opportunities.

The LKNW Podcast will give the strong and diverse women of the LKN area a greater voice and platform. It will provide women a place to share their experiences and expertise while empowering others to stand boldly in their authentic self. Life can be scary and yet there is strength that comes from community. The LKNW Podcast is an important part of the community.

I hope to bring a different perspective to the conversations! I never saw myself as a “girl’s girl,” especially always working in male dominated sports/businesses. As my life and work has shifted, I’ve been increasingly called to work with women more, and rediscover the power, knowledge and solidarity that women have always possessed. I may add some humor and a cuss word too!

2. Your work at Willow Equine and Soul to Sole Connection is all about healing and empowering people. How does this mission align with your vision for the podcast and the impact you hope it will have?

The work that Willow Equine and Soul to Sole Connection offers is a safe space for clients to share their stories and heal from the wounds of trauma. Everyone has experienced some degree of trauma and by sharing our stories, we can heal – not only ourselves but also inspiring others.

The LKNW Podcast will offer listeners the ability to hear others’ stories, examine their life and perhaps rewrite their story. Our listeners are the ultimate authority in their own lives and will gain a deeper understanding of their values and strengths. I hope that women will unapologetically stand up and share their stories, be grateful for every part of that story and embrace the person they have become.

3. You’ve worked with so many incredible women through your programs. What have you learned from their stories, and how do you hope to amplify voices like theirs through the podcast?

“Amplify Their Voices” … I love that! When something is amplified, it is expanded using detail or illustration, which increases its strength and power!

At the farm, every story I witness is different, valuable, and unique. We allow the details of the story to unfold within nature and the horses. We have had clients who had lost their voice, due to trauma, and were so frozen with fear. Slowly, with our support, they found their voice and were able to start sharing their story. They could add more detail, and with more detail came clarity. Clients view the story from a different perspective, which allows their story to shift. Some even change their role or tone within the story. Power comes from having the courage to be curious. Through curiosity, our listeners can rediscover their own personal power, authenticity, and confidence.

It is not about being perfect, having all the answers or all the money. Life is about consistently showing up, and authentically speaking up. As we openly share our story, we are leading and healing by example. We are changing the stories of all women and being a strong role model for our children. We can be proud of the women we have ground into!

4. The new year is often a time for reflection and growth. What message would you like to share with women in our community as they step into 2025 and set intentions for themselves?

My message for you as we step into 2025, is to treat yourself with grace and compassion! Have the courage and curiosity to look deeper within yourselves. Don’t be afraid to let go of the parts or people that are not serving your highest and best. You were put here to do magnificent things, so don’t let anything or anyone stop you from living your best, authentic life! It’s time for you to show up!