About a year and a half ago, I started following an account on Instagram after watching just one reel because her confidence, attitude and gorgeous style spoke to me. Not to the Me that I actually was at the time, but to the Me I wanted to be… the one I’d been silencing for decades.

That’s the Me who watched others wear the bold clothes I wanted to wear, explore the things I wanted to try, shout out the things I wanted to say, join the groups I wanted to be a part of… the Me who was always too afraid to really live an authentic life. Internalizing all that fear, anxiety and shame over the years helped me adopt the Victim Mindset – it wasn’t my fault that I didn’t get to be like the women I admired, and it wasn’t fair if anyone else did.

Ten years ago, I started working to change that mindset and become a healthier person – I’m much better now! But here I am, approaching 60 way too fast and trying to remember what kept me from being the courageous, audacious and unapologetic woman that I dreamed of being. What person, place or thing planted the seed of “not good enough” in my mind? Honestly, does it even matter now? Because those days of telling myself that I don’t get to be that kind of person ended a long, long time ago.

I want to wear the flashy prints, I want to explore unknown paths, I want my voice to be the loudest in the room, I want to embrace all the wild and magical opportunities I would’ve passed on before. I want to say YES! WHY NOT? and WHAT IF? more often. I’m done with being afraid of making mistakes. I’m done with worrying about how others might judge me. I’m done with believing I’m the victim in my own story because I know I’m the hero.

So when I first heard Florence Given talk about “Who does she think she is?” I knew something was about to change for me, that the phoenix was about to rise again. That’s why I entered the Top Host podcast contest – just for fun. Something that made me say “Yes! Why not?” But the more I lean into the “What if?” side of it, the more clearly I can see myself doing it for real.

If you’ve been voting for me, THANK YOU! Your support means the world to me!

If you haven’t voted for me yet and want to, YAY! Here’s the link to submit your free daily vote.

If you refuse to vote for me because you don’t want me to win, COOL! But maybe ask yourself if a plus for another person really equals a minus for you. (because that’s definitely how I used to think)

Starting my own podcast turned out to be a dream I didn’t even know I’d had until I entered the contest. But that entry was a catalyst for embracing Reinvention, Realignment and Reconnection within myself.

Tell us what makes you the next Top Host…

I am the next Top Host because I am gifted at engaging conversation and speak with clarity and wisdom on matters of mindset and well-being.

What’s your favorite part of hosting?

I’m a deep diver when it comes to research and enjoy sharing what I learn about new habits, concepts and methods for healing on multiple levels. I love to guide people to new and different approaches for issues, concerns or problems they might be having. The moment my guest pauses then says, “Oh! I’d never thought about it like that!” is my absolute favorite part of hosting.

What unique perspective would you bring to your own iHeartRadio podcast?

I’ve never been satisfied with doing or being just one thing – I’m currently a website designer, photographer, skincare consultant, office specialist AND aspiring podcast host. Now in my 50’s, I feel like people want me to just be quiet and retire to a rocking chair with a ball of yarn, but I’ve got too much energy for that! I’ve navigated big changes in my life, and I want to share what I’ve learned about reinventing yourself, trying new things and refusing to believe your best years are over.

What would you do with $25,000?

Winning $25,000 would give me the chance to finally invest in some high-quality tech and allow me to pursue a bold, new direction in my life as a podcast host. I would also like to start college funds for my two grandchildren and use what’s left to surprise my husband with a trip out west for our 25th wedding anniversary next year.

About the Contest…

One charismatic voice will lead their very own six-episode podcast series produced by iHeartRadio, take home $25,000, and be a guest on an episode of On Air with Ryan Seacrest.

Interviewers, moderators, streamers, podcasters, and aspiring on-air personalities are all invited! If they’ve got the voice, we want to hear it. This is an opportunity for hosts of all backgrounds to bring their unique flavor to audiences across the country.

• The 2026 Top Host will join Ryan Seacrest as a special guest on his morning show, On Air with Ryan Seacrest, where they can chat with the man himself and showcase their skills to America.
• The champion will host their very own six-episode podcast, professionally produced by iHeartRadio. The show will premiere on the iHeartRadio app and everywhere people listen to podcasts.
• The Top Host will also take home $25,000 to help their career take off and equip them to broadcast their dynamic personality to the country—loud and clear.

Since 2004, On Air with Ryan Seacrest has entertained U.S. audiences across multiple dayparts. Airing live each weekday morning on KIIS-FM and syndicated nationwide in midday and afternoon drive-time slots, the show features exclusive celebrity interviews and breaking entertainment news.

Top Host supports the Ryan Seacrest Foundation (RSF), a nonprofit organization that creates interactive media studios, named Seacrest Studios, in children’s hospitals nationwide. These studios spark creativity, build confidence and support emotional healing, enriching each child’s hospital experience and complementing their care.