Episode 270In this powerful episode of the NotBasicBlonde Podcast, I’m joined by bestselling author, global speaker, and mental health advocate Kevin Hines. Kevin shares the extraordinary true story of surviving a suicide attempt after jumping from the Golden Gate Bridge—an experience that changed his life forever and led him to dedicate his mission to helping others find hope.Kevin opens up about the struggles that led to his darkest moment, the miracle that saved his life, and the remarkable journey of healing, resilience, and recovery that followed. Together, we discuss the importance of suicide prevention, recognizing the warning signs, breaking the stigma surrounding mental health, and the everyday practices that can help us build emotional resilience and stay mentally healthy.If you or someone you know is struggling, this episode could make a life-changing difference.GuestKevin Hines is a storyteller. He is a best selling author, global public speaker, and award winning documentary filmmaker. In the Year 2000, Kevin attempted to take his life by jumping off the Golden Gate Bridge. Many factors contributed to his miraculous survival including a sea lion which kept him afloat until the Coast Guard arrived. Kevin now travels the world sharing his story of hope, healing, and recovery while teaching people of all ages the art of wellness & the ability to survive pain with true resilience. His motto: #BeHereTomorrow and every day after that. He is one of only thirty-six (less than 1%) to survive the fall from the Golden Gate Bridge. In 2016, Mental Health America awarded Kevin their highest honor, The Clifford W. Beers Award for his efforts to improve the lives of and attitudes toward people with mental illnesses. Previously, he was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award by the National Council of Behavioral Health in partnership with Eli Lilly. Kevin has also been awarded by SAMSHA as a Voice Awards Fellow and Award Winner, an Achievement Winner by the US Veterans Affairs and received over 30 U.S. military excellence medals as a civilian.Kevin sat on the boards of the International Bipolar Foundation (IBPF), the Bridge Rail Foundation (BRF) and the Mental Health Association of San Francisco (MHASF) and on the Survivors Committee of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Previously, he was a board member of the Northern California Chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) and was a two-term member of San Francisco’s Mental Health Board. He has spoken in congressional hearings alongside Patrick Kennedy in support of The Mental Health Parity Bill. He continues his policy work as an Ambassador to the National Council for Behavioral Health.In the summer of 2013, Kevin released his bestselling memoir titled Cracked Not Broken, Surviving and Thriving After A Suicide Attempt. He is currently producing a documentary entitled Suicide: The Ripple Effect. Kevin’s will to live and stay mentally well has inspired people worldwide. His compelling story has touched diverse, global audiences within colleges and universities, high schools, corporations, clergy, military, clinicians, health and medical communities, law enforcement organizations, and various industries. Thousands have communicated to Hines that his story helped save their lives. He has reached millions with his story.His story was featured in the 2006 film The Bridge by the film director and producer Eric Steel. Kevin believes in the power of the human spirit and in the fact that you can find the ability to live mentally well. His mantra: “Life is a gift, that is why they call it the present. Cherish it always.”HostOlyasha Novozhylova @notbasicblonde_NotBasicBlonde Podcast @nbbpodcast

Episode 269In this inspiring episode of the NotBasicBlonde Podcast, I’m joined by rapper, singer, songwriter, and entrepreneur Qveen Herby. From rising to fame as one half of the pop duo Karmin to reinventing herself as an independent artist with a bold new identity, Qveen shares the journey behind building a career entirely on her own terms.We dive into what it takes to stay creatively inspired, how artists can stand out and build a loyal audience in today’s digital world, and why authenticity is more valuable than following trends. Qveen also shares her perspective on entrepreneurship, personal growth, confidence, and creating a life and career that align with your vision.Whether you’re an artist, entrepreneur, content creator, or simply looking for the motivation to pursue your biggest goals, this conversation is filled with practical wisdom, empowering insights, and the mindset shifts needed to create lasting success.GuestQveen Herby is a platinum-selling independent rapper and self-made icon of confidence, lyricism, and boss energy. You may recognize her signature bob and bold style from trend-setting internet moments or ear worms like “Vitamins” + “Sugar Daddy.” Her aura-clearing confidence has morphed into a movement as much as music. Catch her live on tour for a mystical escape to ISLE OF QVEEN: a high-vibe, high-fashion, full-permission experience that’ll have you leaving louder, bolder, and fully in your power. Get lost in her world at QVEENHERBY.COMHost Olyasha Novozhylova @notbasicblonde_NotBasicBlonde Podcast @nbbpodcast

Episode 268This is a truly legendary episode of the NotBasicBlonde Podcast with music industry powerhouse Wendy Starland. As the woman who discovered and developed Lady Gaga, Wendy takes us behind the scenes of one of the greatest success stories in music history and reveals what it really takes to recognize, nurture, and build extraordinary talent.In this inspiring conversation, Wendy shares the mindset, habits, and qualities that separate world-class performers from everyone else. She opens up about her own journey in the music industry, the lessons she’s learned from working with some of the biggest names in entertainment, and why resilience, authenticity, and unwavering belief in your vision are essential for lasting success.Whether you’re an entrepreneur, artist, creator, or simply chasing a big dream, this episode is packed with timeless wisdom, practical advice, and powerful stories that will inspire you to unlock your full potential and pursue greatness.GuestWendy Starland @wendystarland is an American singer, songwriter and music producer from Los Angeles. Starland was honored by The Songwriters Hall of Fame, was named VH1's, Best Emerging Artist, was featured on Moby's Grammy nominated album Last Night, and opened for Sheryl Crow and Jack White at the Michigan International Speedway. In addition, Starland discovered and developed 11-time Grammy, 2 time Golden Globe, and Oscar winning icon Lady Gaga. Starland developed Lady Gaga's career during the recording of Lady Gaga's album The Fame, which received Billboard's Album of the Decade – having logged 62 of its record-setting 108 total weeks at No. 1 on the Top Dance/Electronic Albums chart this decade.Starland was named in the Beckhamhouse Book as one of the Great Female Singers alongside Aretha Franklin, Billie Holiday, Etta James, and Natalie Cole. Starland's single, "Dancing with the Sea", was released on Universal alongside Norah Jones, Feist, and Edie Brickell. The song hit number eight on the music charts giving her the opportunity to tour Europe. Starland signed a major music publishing contract with BMG Rights Management. Starland was a featured performer at MI Fest, opening for Sheryl Crow and Jack White. Starland also performed at the Cannes Film Festival at Cinemoi Network's charity event benefiting Children Uniting Nations with producer and DJ Paul Oakenfold, Ashlee Simpson, and Evan Ross. Wendy Starland performed with Kii Arens and James Bourne for Linda Perry’s Rock-N-Relief Concert. HostOlyasha Novozhylova @notbasicblonde_NotBasicBlonde Podcast @nbbpodcast

Episode 267Join us for an eye-opening conversation with pelvic floor physical therapist Dr. Sara Reardon as we dive into one of the most overlooked topics in women’s health. From postpartum recovery and pelvic floor dysfunction to leakage, painful intercourse, abdominal separation, and the truth about Kegels, Dr. Sara breaks down what every woman should know—but often isn’t told. She explains why so many postpartum concerns are dismissed as “just part of motherhood,” what a pelvic floor assessment involves, and how to recognize the signs that your body may need support. Whether you’re a new mom or simply want to better understand your body, this episode is packed with practical advice and empowering insights to help you prioritize your long-term health and well-being.GuestSara Reardon PT, DPT, WCS is a doctor of physical therapy and board-certified pelvic floor specialist. Sara specializes in the treatment of pelvic floor health, pregnancy and postpartum recovery. She is the founder of the The Vagina Whisperer, an online platform for pelvic floor education and exercise and owns a private practice in her hometown of New Orleans, NOLAPelvic Health. You can find her on Instagram at @the.vagina.whisperer and TikTok @thevagwhisperer.HostOlyasha Novozhylova @notbasicblonde_NotBasicBlonde @nbbpodcast

Episode 266Join us for an inspiring conversation with entrepreneur and investor Jaclyn Johnson, founder of Create & Cultivate and New Money Ventures. Jaclyn shares how losing her corporate job became the catalyst for building a multi-million-dollar company, the lessons she learned from taking bold risks, and why she believes entrepreneurship often requires confidence before certainty. She also discusses the future of venture capital, the changing flow of money and opportunities for women founders, and the practical insights behind her bestselling book, The Work Party. Whether you’re launching a business, growing your career, or looking for motivation to take the next leap, this episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiring stories.GuestJaclyn Johnson is a serial entrepreneur and the founder of Create & Cultivate. She sold her first business by age 28 and went on to launch and sell her second multimillion-dollar company, Create & Cultivate, before 35. Founded in 2012 to address the lack of resources and community for female entrepreneurs, Create & Cultivate became a first-of-its-kind platform achieving seven-figure profitability and eight-figure revenue, partnering with Fortune 500 brands including Amazon, Mastercard, and Microsoft, and hosting speakers such as Kim Kardashian, Tyra Banks, Jessica Alba, Issa Rae, Chrissy Teigen, and Martha Stewart. After twelve years of success, Jaclyn has returned to lead the brand into its next chapter.A Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree and Adweek Disruptor, Jaclyn is a recognized thought leader for millennial and Gen Z women. Her work and insights have been featured in Fast Company, the LA Times, Entrepreneur, and more. She is the founder of Cherub, a double-sided marketplace connecting founders and funders, and serves as an advisor and angel investor in women-owned businesses including Away, Live Tinted, and Chillhouse.HostOlyasha Novozhylova @notbasicblonde_NotBasicBlonde @nbbpodcast

Episode 265In this powerful episode, entrepreneur, investor, bestselling author, and Shark Tank star Matt Higgins shares why letting go of your backup plan may be the key to achieving extraordinary success. He reflects on the experiences that ignited his entrepreneurial journey and the mindset that helped him overcome obstacles and build a remarkable career. Matt opens up about the lessons he’s learned as a venture capitalist, what separates successful entrepreneurs from the rest, and why resilience, calculated risk-taking, and unwavering commitment are essential for long-term success. He also offers practical advice for aspiring founders, investors, and anyone looking to unlock their full potential.Whether you’re building a business, chasing a big dream, or searching for the confidence to take the next step, this inspiring conversation is filled with actionable insights, motivation, and the strategies needed to think bigger and succeed.GuestMatt Higgins is a noted serial entrepreneur, growth equity investor as Co-founder and CEO of private investment firm, RSE Ventures, and Wall Street Journal best-selling author of Burn The Boats.Mr. Higgins has also been a guest shark on Emmy award-winning TV show “Shark Tank” during seasons 10-11, and Harper Collins’ William Morrow imprint will release his book “Burn the Boats!” in 2023. In 2019, he received the Ellis Island Medal of Honor, joining the ranks of seven former U.S. presidents, Nobel Prize winners and other leaders for work to improve society. He is also an Executive Fellow at the Harvard Business School where he co-teaches the course “Moving Beyond Direct-to-Consumer.” Mr. Higgins began his career in public service as a journalist before becoming the youngest mayoral press secretary in New York City at 26, where he managed the global media response to the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks. He became one of the first employees – and ultimately Chief Operating Officer – of the Lower Manhattan Development Corporation, the federally funded government agency created to plan the rebuilding of the World Trade Center site. Mr. Higgins spent 15 years in senior leadership positions with National Football League teams. He made his mark with two NFL franchises, overseeing the revenue functions of the New York Jets as Executive Vice President of Business Operations, and after leaving the Jets, serving as Vice Chairman of the Miami Dolphins from 2012 – 2021. Higgins co-founded New York City-based RSE Ventures in 2012, amassing a multi-billion-dollar investment portfolio of leading brands across sports and entertainment, media and marketing, consumer and technology industries – including several of Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies.RSE’s backings include Resy, an Open Table competitor that American Express acquired in 2019; the world’s premier drone racing circuit, the Drone Racing League; the International Champions Cup, the largest privately owned soccer tournament featuring Europe’s top clubs; and Derris, a brand strategy and communications firm that has helped grow many leading brands such as Warby Parker and Glossier. Higgins is also co-owner of VaynerMedia, the largest social-media first agency in the world founded by Gary Vaynerchuk. In 2016, he broadened RSE’s investment focus to rapidly expanding fine dining and fast casual concepts, including NYC’s iconic Magnolia Bakery, David Chang’s Momofuku and Fuku, Milk Bar, &pizza and Bluestone Lane.Host  Olyasha Novozhylova @notbasicblonde_NotBasicBlonde @nbbpodcast

Episode 264In this inspiring episode, globally recognized entrepreneur, business strategist, and bestselling author David Meltzer shares the mindset, principles, and strategies that have fueled his remarkable success. From overcoming early career setbacks to building a purpose-driven life and business, David reveals how resilience, integrity, empathy, and creating value have shaped every step of his journey.He opens up about the lessons learned through failure, the importance of emotional intelligence and adaptability in today’s rapidly changing business world, and why meaningful relationships and mentorship can accelerate success. David also shares practical advice for entrepreneurs looking to scale their businesses, make better decisions, and unlock their full potential.Whether you’re launching your first venture, growing an established business, or searching for the motivation to think bigger, this episode is packed with actionable insights that will inspire you to break through limitations and create lasting success.GuestDavid Meltzer @davidmeltzer is a Speaker, Author, Sports Executive, Investor! David Meltzer is the Co-founder of Sports 1 Marketing and formerly served as CEO of the renowned Leigh Steinberg Sports & Entertainment agency, which was the inspiration for the movie Jerry Maguire. His life's mission is to empower OVER 1 BILLION people to be happy! This simple yet powerful mission has led him on an incredible journey to provide one thing...VALUE. In all his content and communication that's exactly what you'll receive. He is a three-time international best-selling author, a Top 100 Business Coach, the executive producer of Entrepreneur's #1 digital business show, Elevator Pitch, and host of the top entrepreneur podcast, The Playbook.  His newest book, Game-Time Decision Making, was a #1 new release, David has been recognized by Variety Magazine as their Sports Humanitarian of the Year and awarded the Ellis Island Medal of Honor.HostOlyasha Novozhylova @notbasicblonde_NotBasicBlonde podcast @nbbpodcast

Episode 263Join me for an inspiring conversation with Caroline Stanbury—successful entrepreneur, star of The Real Housewives of Dubai, and former fan-favorite on Ladies of London. As one of the most influential women in business and reality television, Caroline shares the mindset and strategies that helped her build a powerful personal brand and thriving businesses. We discuss entrepreneurship, leadership, authentic relationships, work-life balance, and the lessons she’s learned from navigating both business and life in the public eye. Whether you’re building a brand, growing a business, or looking for inspiration from a woman who’s redefined success on her own terms, this episode is packed with valuable insights you won’t want to miss.GuestCaroline Alice Stanbury https://www.instagram.com/carolinestanbury is British entrepreneur, TV personality, and philanthropist based in Dubai. She's best known for her roles on the Bravo reality shows Ladies of London (2014–2017) and The Real Housewives of Dubai (2022–2024). Stanbury is also a luxury brand ambassador, real estate investor, and podcast host of Divorced Not Dead and Uncut and Uncensored. The latter features candid conversations about love, resilience, and modern womanhood. HostOlyasha Novozhylova @notbasicblonde_NotBasicBlonde Podcast @nbbpodcast

Episode 262For millionaires and millionaires in the making. You’ve never experienced anything like this. Ready to transform the way you think about money? In this empowering episode, bestselling author and entrepreneur Rachel Rodgers shares her blueprint for building wealth, planning your year like a millionaire, and creating lasting generational wealth. We dive into the daily money habits that can change your financial future, debunk outdated financial myths, and discuss why aiming for just $100K a year may be holding you back. Rachel also explains why earning more isn’t selfish—it’s a powerful way to create opportunities for yourself and others. Plus, you’ll learn practical strategies to increase your income, grow your bank account, uncover what’s keeping you from becoming a millionaire, and start thinking like the wealthiest version of yourself.GuestRachel Rodgers https://www.rachelrogers.com is the CEO/Founder of Hello Seven, an award-winning company that teaches women, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA people how to build a seven figure business and create generational wealth.She’s the author of We Should All Be Millionaires: A Woman’s Guide to Earning More, Building Wealth, and Gaining Economic Power, a Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Amazon Bestseller, named one of Audible’s top Audiobooks of the Year, with more than 200,000 copies sold.You’ve seen Rachel spilling the tea on business, money, and mindset on Good Morning America, The Drew Barrymore Show, and in The New York Times, Forbes, Entrepreneur, Inc, Cheddar, PopSugar, and Women’s Health.Her mission is to help you end the cycle of over-working, under-earning, and financial stress—once and for all.HostOlyasha Novozhylova @notbasicblone_NotBasicBlonde @nbbpodcast

Episode 261Step into the world of entertainment and entrepreneurship with Emmy-winning, Oscar-nominated producer Cindy Cowan. In this inspiring episode, Cindy shares the lessons she’s learned from building an extraordinary career in the film industry and offers practical advice for women who are ready to pursue their biggest ambitions.From overcoming challenges in a competitive industry to developing confidence, resilience, and a strong entrepreneurial mindset, Cindy reveals what it truly takes to build a lasting career and create new opportunities. Whether you’re launching a business, growing your personal brand, or looking for motivation to take your next step, this conversation is filled with actionable insights and empowering stories. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on leadership, perseverance, and the power of believing in yourself as you create your own path to success.GuestCindy Cowan is an Emmy-winning, Oscar-nominated producer who co-founded Initial Entertainment Group (IEG) with Graham King in 1995. It became the leading film production and foreign sales company.From 1995 till its sale to Splendid Films in 2000, IEG had many successes including: an Emmy nomination for Rent-A-Kid, starring Leslie Nielson; Emmy, Golden Globe and People’s Choice nominations for If These Walls Could Talk, starring Cher, Sissy Spacek, Anne Heche and Demi Moore; and won a United Nations Award for Savior, starring Dennis Quaid. IEG also saw success with its production of Traffic, starring Michael Douglas and Benicio Del Toro; the film won Oscars for directing, adapted screenplay, editing, and best supporting actor. Additional projects produced by Ms. Cowan while at IEG include Very Bad Things, starring Cameron Diaz and Christian Slater; and the Robert Altman-directed Dr. T & the Women, starring Richard Gere, Helen Hunt, Kate Hudson and Liv Tyler.Since forming her new production company, Cindy Cowan Entertainment, Cowan has produced Scorched, starring Woody Harrelson and Alicia Silverstone, executive produced Fifty Dead Men Walking, starring Sir Ben Kingsley and Jim Sturgess; she also produced Red Lights starring Robert De Niro, Sigourney Weaver, Cillian Murphy, and Elizabeth Olsen. Directed by RodrigoCortes, Red Lights was the opening night premiere at Sundance, January 2012, and was the highest selling film at that festival. The trailer for thefilm was a viral sensation on release, earning over 34 million views (in comparison, box office smash “The Avengers” has 20 million).Recent credits include a southern crime thriller, Arkansas, starring Vince Vaughn and Liam Hemsworth as well as the Emmy-winning documentary called Miracle on 42nd Street featuring Alicia Keys.Cindy Cowan Entertainment will be undertaking more productions for television, including a historical drama called Ellis Island, a scripted series about immigration during the 1910’s with interest from Spike Lee (Malcolm X, Inside Man, Old Boy) to direct and Executive Produce. In 2019, Cowan co-founded the Omni-Cultural TV Fest alongside Kiki Melendez, which is the only TV festival backed by NATPE.When Cowan isn’t hard at work, she sits on the boards of Little Kids Rock, a non-profit organization that provides free instruments and lessons to underserved public schools,World Woman Foundation,which is a global community of women leaders committed to scale and accelerate the impact of one million women and girls by 2030 within long-term investments to expand skills, connections, capacity, and visibility . and Children Mending Hearts, a dynamic arts-based enrichment education program that helps empower disadvantaged youth, building empathy and global citizenry. Host Olyasha Novozhylova @notbasicblonde_NotBasicBlonde Podcast @nbbpodcast