Journey Into Wellbeing

I am really excited today to share some insights from Debra K., who is preparing to debut the first episode of her show, "Journey Into Wellbeing" February 19th at 9pm EST on KET. She took her idea to reality and everyone in Kentucky is about to see it!

Debra K.

So who is Debra K? For 15 years, Debra K. kept companies she worked with healthy, using her expertise to create spectacular customer experiences. But the 60-hour weeks this former Fortune 250 executive invested in her career had an adverse effect on her own wellbeing: she became an overworked, pudgy insomniac on the brink of a health crisis. 

After leaving the corporate world, she launched a successful wellness education company and began consulting in the spa industry. Now Debra’s tackling her personal health challenges head-on, with a multimedia adventure that takes her across the United States in search of health secrets that can turn her, an average girl next door, into something a touch more spectacular. As host of The Journey into Wellbeing, Debra will stretch, juice, and Zumba her way to better health - and inspire the rest of us to cultivate more vibrant, energetic lives along the way.

HK: What was the motivation for this show? Why take the leap?

DK: There were a couple inspirations that have driven me and my team to keep moving forward with this show:

The first seed was planted when I was a single mom, working long hours in a corporate job. I ended up pretty sick and went to the doctor’s office. Instead of addressing lifestyle changes which might have benefited me, he simply whipped out his prescription pad and wanted to give me all kinds of medications. Things like sleeping pills, antacids, cholesterol medication and anti-depressants. I was a little shocked and actually a little angry. I thought to myself… ’How many people are there in similar situations as me that are leaving the doctor’s office with an arsenal of medications to mask the symptoms of lifestyle imbalance, without exploring what else they might do to get healthier?’ I politely said, ‘Thanks, but no thanks,’ and left without any of the prescriptions. What I did leave with, however, was a burning desire to educate myself and also to provide education to others so they can make more informed decisions about their wellbeing. It would be several years before I was actually able to start heading in the right direction.

Another inspiration for me has been Oprah Winfrey. When she announced she was leaving her show in late 2010, she put out a query for the next reality TV star to be on her new OWN network. Just for fun, I started dreaming about what type of show I would do if given the chance and, of course, I wanted to work with Oprah. I thought... ‘How cool would it be if I traveled around and visited fun and healthy places, interviewed experts and shared this information with the world?’ Once that seed was planted I really started to get excited about the idea. For me, it was about taking the next step and to just keep moving forward. After playing with the idea for a while, I started to ask others what they thought. I had been working closely with some Destination Spas and I ran the idea past their teams. They thought it was a great idea. I also met with friends, journalists and business peers. Not one single person tried to discourage me from following this idea.

Almost exactly 18 months after I started dreaming about this show, the OWN network invited me and Margaret to come to Los Angeles and pitch the idea to them. I spent 45 minutes with their programming director, and while I haven’t heard from them, it felt amazing just to be there sharing the idea with them.”

HK: Anytime we have Kentucky on TV, we always get excited. But to see a focus on health set in the Commonwealth is pretty uncommon, if not unheard of! Why start this journey here? 

DK: As The Journey into Wellbeing’s Host and Executive Producer, I plan to travel to all 50 states, but felt I had to start in Kentucky. After spending 20 years in and raising both my children in Kentucky, I hold a special place in my heart for all things in the Bluegrass. As I’ve explored what the state has to offer over the past few months, I am so proud of all the creative, wellness initiatives across the Commonwealth. I believe every state has hidden gems of well-being and Kentucky felt like a great place to start.

Often when Kentucky is represented in the media, the focus is on things not so flattering, such as the article that ran a few years ago announcing Lexington as one of the most sedentary cities in the nation. I knew that there were hidden gems of wellness within the state that were worthy of national attention. In fact the title for this episode is The Bluegrass State is much more than horses, hillbilly hoedowns and hot browns… it’s HEALTHY!

HK: What can we look forward to on the first episode? Sights, scenes, people?

DK: Part of the premise of the show is for viewers to feel as if they can access healthy options in their own state. As I travel and uncover the hidden gems of health and wellness, I want it to feel very accessible for residents. There were so many health-focused initiatives in the state we couldn’t fit in everything we discovered. Some of the exciting places and people we explored:

• Bobby Benjamin, Executive Chef, La Coop Bistro, Louisville. Chef Benjamin will teach viewers how to redo traditional recipes in a healthier fashion. He tackled the Hot Brown, Corn Pudding and Blackberry Cobbler.
• Lena D. Edwards, MD, FAARM, Balance Health & Wellness Center, Lexington. Dr. Edwards will provide me with an initial health assessment and offer tips to viewers on beginning their own health journey. Turns out that I have six food allergies - definitely worth watching for my reaction.
• Frontier Nursing University in Hyden. We trekked off to Eastern Kentucky to explore the oldest and largest midwifery school in the nation. The students we met are so articulate about their love for midwifery. 
• Molly Galbraith, Fitness Expert, J&M Strength & Conditioning, Lexington. Molly puts methrough her paces and assigns a fitness grade, while offering simple tips for beginning a fitness journey. Much of this footage was shot at the Holly Rood historic home in Winchester and at Natural Bridge State Park. 
• Janey Newton, Founder, Foxhollow Farm, Crestwood. We spent a beautiful autumn day on the farm. Viewers will learn about bio-dynamic farming and the journey Foxhollow’s leaders have taken to create a completely self-sustaining, organic farm.” 

HK: Is there anything in particular that you've learned so far on your journey that you found surprising or eye-opening? 

DK: Probably the greatest discovery I made during this first episode is I experienced first-hand how passionate people are about what they are doing.

As I talked with people, their faces would light up because they held so much belief in what they were doing. I just love that! If I can somehow create a platform for others to be able to share their intentions and passions, then I will be an extremely happy person. The Journey into Wellbeing will not only help people get started on their own health journey, but will inspire people all over the world to follow their dreams and do what makes them happy.”

HK: Is there anything else you would like to add?

DK: I believe that when you are on the right path and doing what you are supposed to be doing, helping hands will appear. This has been the case with the Journey. Considering when I started, I had zero connections in the television world, it is almost a miracle that the show is getting ready to launch and be shown initially in seven states. At every turn: a connection, a voice of encouragement, a helping hand has been there to ensure I stay focused and moving forward. It has been these outside influences of support that have helped me to believe that I can make a difference, even when that internal voice of doubt crept in. We are setting our intention to reach all 50 states and would love to do so with PBS. The educational component of the Journey will be a great fit for their mission. I am looking for like-minded companies who might be interested in partnering with us to bring the Journey to a national level. With PBS, you have to receive underwriting to fund the costs. I am seeking this type partnership with companies who are as interested in making a difference as they are in making a profit. The PBS affiliate that will air the pilot is Kentucky Educational Television. KET reaches viewers throughout Kentucky and in parts of seven surrounding states. As many as 4-million people view KET programming. We are thrilled to work with this respected station.

HK: Thanks so much for your insight Debra!

Watch the first episode of Journey Into Wellbeing on 2/19/13 at 9:00pm on KET. You can find more information on Facebook and Twitter. 

Kentucky in One Word: Beautiful

It's hard to reduce our home state to just one word. I really struggled with the idea, but kept coming back to the word "beautiful."

Native Americans discovered and returned to Kentucky again and again for the bounty that the land provided. Later, the Early European settlers must have seen bits of home in the highlands of Appalachia, the verdant meadows of the Bluegrass and the meandering waterways across the region. Today, I often find myself gasping at the beauty my state offers, and I'm in awe of the diversity of that beauty. Mountains, forests, rivers, lakes, and arches are some of the beautiful natural world we call home, but we've also had the (generally) good sense to work to preserve a lot of those places and enhance them.

My words are woefully inadequate to describe the beauty of Kentucky, but if you've ever lived through a Kentucky spring, you know that the green surrounding you is enough to make your heart squeeze with joy. If you've ever hiked a Kentucky forest on a crisp autumn day, you know the sights, sounds and smells of Kentucky.

Kentucky is beautiful beyond words and beyond my amateur photography abilities. I hope you enjoy some of my favorite images and will share links to some of your favorites!

Waterfalls Abound in Kentucky - Cove Spring Nature Preserve, Frankfort

Bright Summer Colors - Washington County

Majestic Waterways - Russell Fork River, Elkhorn City

Spring is Perfection in the Bluegrass - Capitol Lawn, Frankfort

Winter Brings Its Own Beauty - Cove Spring Nature Preserve, Frankfort

Fall in Appalachia - Russell Fork Gorge, Kentucky/Virginia Border

Arches! - Red River Gorge, Slade

Kentucky In One Word: Friendly

I don't know about you, but if I had to describe Kentucky in one word, it would be friendly.  I have been all over the great commonwealth and one thing is consistent: friendliness.  Whether you're west in Paducah, east in Pikeville, north in Louisville (or N'ucky!), or south in Bowling Green, the one common thread is that everyone is nice.   

My Mom always said to treat others as you would want to be treated and I feel like that's a distinctive trait among many Kentuckians.  My Mom told me a story last week about how one of her friends was driving her elderly father to town to wait on someone that was meeting them.  The person was running late and her father was getting antsy.  She saw that an older man that was also sitting at this McDonald's and she went up to him and said, "excuse me sir, but you look like a farmer and my Dad is getting antsy over there waiting for someone to meet him, can you go talk to him?"  My Mom said that the man went over and talked to her friend's father for an hour about farming.  And that my friends is a perfect example of how people in Kentucky are super-friendly (and love to talk as well).  

Celebrities who come to Louisville for the Derby will go on and on about how friendly everyone was and how hospitable people were to them.  

I've lived in Lexington, Florida, and had a short study abroad stint in Paris (and add in traveling around the US for work) and I can personally say that Kentuckians are the friendliest that I've come in contact with.  

Maker's Mark Chocolate Pecan Pie

My birthday was last week. By the time we got around to a birthday dinner with my family, I was already a little sick of cake. We were doing a simple, hearty surf-and-turf menu, so I thought a Derby Pie would provide a nice contrast for dessert. Well, you know, what I mean. 

Derby Pie is, of course, a trademark of Louisville's  Kern's Kitchen bakery. Every other restaurant, bakery, and home cook in the Bluegrass State has a different name for it: Pegasus Pie, May Day Pie, Run for the Roses Pie, etc. The idea remains. Chocolate chips and nuts. It's pretty delicious, whatever you call it. 

I opted for pecans rather than the traditional walnuts, simply because I  prefer their flavor. I added a good healthy swig of Maker's Mark because, well, why wouldn't you? For time's sake, I used a pre-made pie crust, but didn't cut corners with the homemade whipped cream. I don't think anybody minded the tradeoff.

Bourbon Pecan Pie with Maker's Mark:

• 1/2 cup butter, melted
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1/4 cup bourbon
• 3/4 cup chocolate chips
• 3/4 cup pecans or 3/4 cup walnuts
• 9 inch unbaked pie shell

Combine ingredients in a medium bowl. Stir with fork and pour into pie shell. Bake at 350 for 45 minutes or until browned.

HerKentucky Business: Olive You Boutique

A friend told me about a new boutique in Richmond (for you non-Kentucky folk, about a 20 minute zip straight down I-75 from Lexington) and I asked if it was really worth the drive to go there, especially as I'm a plus size gal and can't usually find anything at boutiques. She assured me that it was, and seeing as I'd love to own a boutique one day (I mean, who wouldn't!?), I went to Olive You and chatted with owner Katie Brandenburg. She is just as lovely as her store is, which is saying a lot because the store is AMAZING. I left with a few pieces of jewelry and greeting cards - there's definitely something for everyone.

Katie Brandenburg

What made Richmond the perfect place to open Olive You?

I love Richmond and it makes it even more special that I am from Richmond. I love all the people here and Richmond has always needed a fun clothing boutique. I have always wanted to open a store in Richmond, since I was a child.

For so many women, owning a boutique sounds like a dream. How did you get to this point, and what made you take the leap?

It really has always been a dream and didn't think that this dream would ever come true. :) My parents have been a huge inspiration and have really made me go for my dreams. I am one lucky girl and truly blessed to have such a great family helping me all along the way.

How do you select what items go in your store?

I select the items by going to market picking unique, one of a kind items that I can picture a wide variety of people wearing. When opening the store I wanted women from all generations to be able to find something they love. When at market I select brands that a wide variety of age groups would love :)

What's the hardest part about being a business owner?

The hardest part is trying to manage your time and get everything done that is needed. There is so much to do for a business owner and juggling your time can be stressful!!

What's the best part about being a business owner?

Making my customers feel good about themselves and feel good in their skin. No matter your age or size everyone should have fun shopping and be able to find things that they love and make them happy. I love making this happen everyday!! :)

What advice would you give to Kentucky women wanting to start their own business?

Go for it!!! It is a lot of hard-work, but if you have a dream and a great plan you should make it happen.

Quickfire Round:

• Bourbon, martinis, or beer? Beer 
• One bucket list item. Go to Capri :) 
• Favorite way to spend a Friday night. Hanging out with close friends and family having a great meal or just sitting on the couch. 
• Celebrity/personality you'd most love to shop at your store? After Golden Globes this weekend I would say ... Jessica Alba... I also love Reese Witherspoon!! She is so cute and fun.

Check out Olive You at 118 Meridian Way, Suite 1 (in Heritage Place across from Meijer), follow them on Facebook, or check them out online!

Kentucky in One Word: Iconic

Colonel Sanders. The Twin Spires. Muhammad Ali. George Clooney. Some of the most famous images in the world. Icons. Symbols of Kentucky.

To me, the one little word that describes Kentucky is "iconic." The defining imagery that conveys the Bluegrass State. The pageantry of the Derby. The limestone fences that outline the Central Kentucky countryside. The quilts. The actual blue grass, and the unique genre of music which shares its name. The college basketball tradition.

You can go anywhere in the world and identify yourself as being from Kentucky and, invariably, you'll get the response of "Fried Chicken" or "Derby." Our horses and our whisky are unparalleled. Our local boxing legend is The Greatest and our hometown heartthrob is The Sexiest.

Kentucky is a land of unmistakable images. Kentucky is iconic.

(All images Leroy Neiman.)

Kentucky in One Word: Comfort

It's funny - I was reading Sarah's "Kentucky in One Word" post and I thought she stole my word... home. Turns out that she actually led me to the word that should have come to mind in the first place: Comfort.

image via joeshlabotnik on Flickr

You see, my family isn't in Kentucky. I wasn't born in Kentucky. I resented being in Kentucky for a long time (this is what happens when you move a very moody girl in her early teens). It wasn't until college at UK - my last resort school - that I started to really feel comfortable. I experienced the spark of UK basketball, finally went to see the ponies at Keeneland, and started to pull the stick out of my butt that seemed to lodge there when I first moved here.

I met a Kentucky boy who is the very definition of comfort to my heart. His family added an anchor that is comforting to have when my family is so distant.

I love to travel, and am surprised every time how much I look forward to flying into LEX and driving home with my heavy suitcases and oily travel face - windows down and breathing in the fresh air.

Today while I write this, I'm curled up on my sofa with my laptop with a down comforter wrapped around me like a burrito. I just drank a cup of hot tea and my pup is trying to get my attention. In this place I am warm, loved, wanted, and needed. Comfort is what Kentucky gives to me.