On this episode of Powered by Authenticity, Emily welcomes back Claire Skillen for a thoughtful conversation about leadership, healing, resilience, and the power of human connection. While Claire's "Copilot Approach" serves as the foundation of the discussion, the conversation quickly becomes something much deeper. It's about helping people rediscover their own strength, trusting the wisdom they already possess, and creating space for growth through curiosity rather than judgment.

Drawing from her experience in management consulting, counseling, and EMDR therapy, Claire shares how her career has evolved while remaining centered on one purpose: helping people navigate life's challenges with confidence and compassion. Rather than taking the controls, she believes the most effective leaders, coaches, and counselors walk alongside others until they're ready to confidently lead themselves.

Throughout the conversation, Emily and Claire explore authentic leadership, the connection between our minds and bodies, the impact of unresolved experiences, and the importance of giving ourselves permission to heal. Claire also shares insights from her upcoming book chapter, Journaling on a Midlife Metamorphosis, reminding us that every stage of life offers opportunities for reflection, growth, and transformation.

Whether you're leading a team, building a business, supporting your community, or simply navigating your own journey, this episode is a reminder that some of life's greatest breakthroughs begin with a single conversation and someone willing to walk beside us.

Thank you, Claire, for such a lovely conversation. It was great to catch up and hear about all of your new adventures since our last conversation.

Links for more information:

Claire Skillen | LinkedInHome - Ceascape Counseling & Consulting

Some people change the world by inventing something new.Others do it by simply making someone smile.

On this episode of Powered by Authenticity, Emily sits down with artist, Food Network champion and Guinness World Record holder Eric Jones. While many people know Eric for his incredible snow sculptures, pumpkin carvings and larger-than-life public art, this conversation quickly reveals that his greatest masterpiece isn't made of snow at all.

Through his nonprofit, Creations for Kids, Eric uses his artistic talent to bring joy to children facing serious illnesses. Whatstarted with one family's request to help lift the spirits of a young girl recovering in the hospital has grown into a mission dedicated to creating unforgettable moments for children when they need them most.

Emily and Eric explore why joy matters just as much as hope,how creativity can become a powerful form of compassion, and the unexpected ways our unique gifts can make a lasting difference in someone else's life.

From giant snow sculptures outside hospital windows to involving children in the creative process, Eric reminds us that sometimes the most meaningful acts of kindness aren't measured in dollars—they're measured in smiles.

This episode is filled with laughter, heartfelt stories anda beautiful reminder that every one of us has been given talents that can make the world a little brighter. You don't have to change everything to change someone's day.

If you've ever wondered whether your passion could becomeyour purpose, or how one small act of kindness can create a ripple effect far beyond what we can see, this conversation will stay with you long after it ends.

Thank you, Eric, for sharing your story with me. We absolutely love the work you are doing, and we will continue to support it in every way possible. Please visit Eric’s website to learn more about how you can help support his work and Creations for Kids.

Eric’s Information:

Home | EricJones Studios

Creations ForKids | Bringing smiles to children facing health challenges and adversity

About Eric:

Bio: Eric Jones is an internationally recognized sculptor, Food Network Star competitor, and Guinness World Record holder known for creating extraordinary sand, snow, ice, pumpkin, and live-event sculptures.

His work has entertained audiences at festivals, schools, corporate events, museums, and celebrations across the country, combining artistic excellence with engaging, interactive experiences. Eric is also the founder of Creationsfor Kids, a nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing custom artistic experiences to children facing illness, disability, and hardship, using creativity to inspire joy, raise awareness, and create lasting memories.

Cancer changes lives—not just for the person receiving the diagnosis, but for their family, friends, and entire support system. The Circle the Wagons Foundation exists to ensure that no one has to face that journey alone.

In this episode of Powered by Authenticity, Emily welcomes the founders of the Circle the Wagons Foundation back to the show for an update on the incredible momentum the organization has built since their last appearance. From expanding community partnerships to new fundraising events and exciting plans for the months ahead, this conversation highlights the power of people coming together to support individuals and families impacted by cancer.

Together, they discuss how the foundation has continued to grow, the relationships that have strengthened its mission, and the impact local businesses, volunteers, and supporters have made throughout Western New York. The conversation also explores upcoming community events leading into this year's golf tournament, why visibility and awareness are just as important as fundraising, and how every act of generosity helps provide hope and support to those navigating a cancer journey.

At its heart, this episode is about more than events and fundraising. It's about neighbors supporting neighbors, communities rallying around one another, and the extraordinary impact that happens when people choose to show up for those who need it most.

Whether you're looking for a way to get involved, support an incredible organization or simply hear an inspiring conversation about the power of community, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

Chris and James, thank you for joining us on Powered byAuthenticity. You are not only amongst our favorite guests but favorite people…thank you for supporting our community!

Links discussed on the episode:

Circle the Wagons Foundation | Cancer Support Nonprofit

Annual Golf Tournament | Circle The Wagons Foundation

LinkedIn:Chris Buerk

JamesCurrey | LinkedIn