In Episode 45 of Never Stop Dreaming Biggie, Brian and I are pulling back the curtain on The Holmestead Hideaway—our revolutionary Caribbean giving bar and retreat where 100% of profits go to charity. If you've ever dreamed of building a business with purpose beyond profit, wondered how to create a legacy that changes lives, or want to see what faith-based social entrepreneurship looks like in action, this episode reveals our complete vision and mission for this transformational project.

We're sharing our 2026 words of the year (Fearless and Thrive), the 10-year journey of how God called us to create The Holmestead, and the two powerful charitable missions driving everything: supporting local Caribbean island communities through grants and education, and funding disaster relief worldwide through The Holmestead Angels nonprofit born from our Hurricane Helene relief work in Asheville.

This isn't your typical hospitality business—it's a giving bar designed to create the most incredible experience on earth while transforming lives. From funding island entrepreneurs and artists to providing bartending and hospitality training, from supporting infrastructure projects to responding to natural disasters, every dollar guests spend becomes a vehicle for change. We're talking about sustainable impact that will outlive us and create generational transformation.

Brian shares the Holmes Fashion cocktail success story while I dive into my batching cocktails masterclass with Ford's Gin, but more importantly, we reveal why we're seeking capital stewards instead of traditional investors, how the financial structure prioritizes giving over personal gain, and the timeline that could see us launching as early as next month. We're getting vulnerable about grief, legacy, faith, and why building something meaningful matters more than accumulating wealth.

The "G" in BIGGIE stands for Give—because success means nothing if we're not lifting others. This episode is a masterclass in purpose-driven entrepreneurship and an invitation to be part of something bigger than yourself.

Key Takeaways:

1. Discover the giving bar concept where 100% of profits support charitable missions
2. Learn the two charitable legs: 50% to local island communities, 50% to disaster relief
3. Understand why capital stewards create better partnerships than traditional investors for mission-driven businesses
4. Hear real examples of island projects: boat upgrades, artist grants, entrepreneur funding
5. Explore educational programs bringing hospitality and bartending training to islanders
6. The Holmestead Angels nonprofit origin story from Hurricane Helene relief work
7. Why faith-based business can be inclusive and welcoming to all people
8. How to structure a social impact business that prioritizes legacy over profit
9. The 10-year journey from BevCon vision to Caribbean hideaway reality
10. Timeline and next steps: property secured, designers hired, launch imminent
11. Creating unforgettable hospitality experiences that make guests feel like rockstars
12. Why...

In Episode 44 of Never Stop Dreaming Biggie, I'm kicking off 2026 with a powerful solo episode about setting business goals that actually work and avoiding the new year burnout that stops most entrepreneurs by February. If you've ever felt the pressure to accomplish everything at once in January, struggled with staying consistent throughout the year, or need clarity on what to focus on first, this episode gives you the framework to build sustainable momentum all year long.

As we step into 2026, I'm sharing my personal approach to vision boards, goal setting, and introducing the revolutionary Four Cs framework (Calm, Confidence, Clarity, Connection) that will shape The Brighter Side Society and this podcast throughout the year. This isn't about overwhelming yourself with 50 resolutions—it's about strategic focus, sustainable energy, and building the business you actually want without sacrificing your sanity or your life.

I dive deep into why focusing on ONE big goal for the year is more powerful than scattering your energy across dozens of projects, how to break down that massive dream into manageable 30-60-90 day milestones, and the Dream Tracker method that keeps me accountable and on track. You'll hear about my vision board celebration with The Brighter Side community, the power of visualization backed by action, and why consistency throughout the year beats January intensity every single time.

This episode also explores how to use AI as your strategic planning partner, the transformative power of my 10-minute prayer and journaling practice for business clarity, and why finding your accountability partner or business community is non-negotiable for success. I'm getting real about imposter syndrome, celebrating wins before setting new goals, and the importance of balancing ambition with calm—because burnout doesn't build empires.

The "B" in BIGGIE stands for Believe - and believing in your vision requires both seeing it clearly (hello, vision boards!) and taking consistent action every single day. This episode gives you permission to dream BIGGIE while staying grounded in practical, sustainable strategies that actually work.

Key Takeaways:

1. Focus on ONE major goal for 2026 instead of overwhelming yourself with endless resolutions
2. Create vision boards that visualize your dreams and keep them visible daily
3. Break annual goals into 30-60-90 day milestones for actionable progress
4. Consistency throughout the year beats motivation and intensity in January alone
5. The Four Cs Framework: Calm, Confidence, Clarity, Connection for 2026 success
6. Use AI strategically to clarify your vision, prioritize goals, and plan action steps
7. Implement a 10-minute daily practice (prayer, meditation, journaling) for business clarity
8. Find your accountability partner or join a community - you're not meant to do this alone
9. Celebrate last year's wins and reflect on lessons before planning the new year
10. Spread your energy strategically across 12 months instead of burning out in one
11. Build confidence by embracing who you are and knowing you have everything you need

In Episode 43 of Never Stop Dreaming Biggie, I'm joined by business strategist Carlyn Bushman for a powerful year-end conversation about launching and scaling your business with progress over perfection. As we wrap up 2025 and head into 2026, this episode is packed with tactical strategies for entrepreneurs and female founders seeking to turn their business goals into reality without getting stuck in analysis paralysis.

Carlyn Bushman is the founder of POP Academy (Progress Over Perfection), Arizona State University adjunct faculty professor, and a leader in the Entreprenista League. She specializes in helping startup to seven-figure businesses build solid foundations through systems, KPIs, and strategic execution. This conversation dives deep into what it really takes to launch a business the right way, how to set goals that actually get executed, and why knowing your numbers is non-negotiable for sustainable growth.

From spreadsheets and financial planning to networking strategies and AI implementation, Carlyn shares the no-gatekeeping approach to business education that's helped countless women entrepreneurs move from dreaming to doing. We discuss the importance of live business education that adapts to market changes, how to break down big visions into micro-actions, and why community and accountability matter more than courses alone. You'll hear practical advice on time management for entrepreneurs, validating your business idea before launch, and thinking like a CEO instead of just an operator.

This isn't just motivational content - it's real talk about execution, systems, and the daily habits that build profitable businesses. Whether you're planning to launch a business in 2026, scale your existing company, or finally get serious about your financials and KPIs, this episode gives you the roadmap and real strategies to make progress over perfection your business mantra.

The "G" in BIGGIE stands for Grow - and growing your business requires both the dream-big mindset and the get-it-done action steps. Carlyn proves that you don't need everything perfect to launch - you just need to start, measure, and iterate with intention.

Key Takeaways:

1. Focus on 2-3 impactful goals for 2026 instead of overwhelming yourself with 20 resolutions
2. Know your KPIs and financial numbers - you can't grow what you don't measure
3. Execution beats inspiration every time - build systems and take micro-actions daily
4. Follow up and build genuine relationships - most entrepreneurs never do this consistently
5. Invest in live business education that adapts to current market changes and AI trends
6. Use AI strategically to prioritize goals, plan your strategy, and accelerate business growth
7. Treat yourself as the CEO, not just the operator of your business
8. Community and accountability are essential for long-term entrepreneurial success
9. Launch before you're ready and iterate based on real customer feedback
10. Progress over perfection is the mindset that actually builds successful businesses
11. Business systems and processes are non-negotiable for scaling without burnout

In Episode 42 of Never Stop Dreaming Biggie, Brian and I are back for PART 2 of our Caribbean adventure, and this time we're taking you to the stunning island of Bequia! After exploring Grenada's properties and finding some serious contenders in Part 1, we're heading to St. Vincent and Bequia to see if this hidden gem in the Grenadines could be THE location for The Holmestead Hideaway. If you thought Part 1 was exciting, buckle up - because Part 2 is where everything gets real, and some big decisions are about to be made.

From the moment we step off the ferry onto Bequia's shores, something shifts. This episode takes you through our property tours in Bequia, the sailboat culture that defines this island, and the kind of community connections that make you fall in love with a place. We're comparing Grenada vs. Bequia side-by-side - the costs, the infrastructure, the community vibes, and what each location means for our three-year timeline to launch The Holmestead Hideaway. You'll hear Brian's honest take on both islands (spoiler: his opinion might surprise you!), the faith conversations that brought us clarity, and the practical next steps we're taking to turn this Caribbean dream into reality. Plus, we're revealing our decision process and sharing how YOU can be part of this journey.

This isn't just about finding property - it's about finding where your business vision, your values, and God's plan intersect perfectly. Whether you're considering international expansion, dreaming about a retreat center of your own, or just ready to see what happens when ambitious women stop talking about their dreams and start actively pursuing them, this episode gives you the roadmap, the real talk, and the reminder that your biggest dreams deserve your biggest actions.

The "I" in BIGGIE stands for Impact - and this Caribbean expansion is all about creating spaces where women can come together, dream bigger, and make real impact in their businesses and lives. Bequia showed us that sometimes the "backup option" becomes the primary choice when you actually show up and explore it.

Key Takeaways:

1. Visit your "second choice" location with an open mind - it might become your first choice
2. Smaller islands can offer bigger opportunities for authentic community integration
3. Sailboat and yachting culture creates unique business opportunities in Caribbean tourism
4. Infrastructure logistics matter: ferry schedules, airports, and supply chains affect operations
5. Cost comparisons must include shipping, supplies, and long-term operational expenses
6. Community acceptance is more valuable than the "perfect" property features
7. Your business partner's perspective reveals blind spots in your vision
8. Faith-led decisions still require concrete action steps and strategic planning
9. Document comparison factors: make lists, take photos, and evaluate objectively
10. Trust your gut AND do thorough research - both are essential for major decisions
11. The "best" location isn't always the most obvious or popular choice
12. Three-year timelines...

In Episode 41 of Never Stop Dreaming Biggie, I'm joined by Brian (the Director of No Fun) as we take you with us to Grenada for the most exciting adventure yet - scouting properties for The Homestead Hideaway! This isn't your typical vacation episode. We're recording beachside with crashing waves and sailboats behind us while sharing the raw, real behind-the-scenes of what it takes to expand your business internationally. If you've ever dreamed of taking your business global, building a retreat space, or simply making a massive faith-led leap - this two-part series is for you.

We walk you through three property tours with our amazing realtor Lucille from Century 21 Grenada (a future Brighter Side Society member!), share our near-miss car accident on narrow mountain roads, and reveal THE property that has us seriously considering making Grenada our home. You'll hear about meetings with government officials and attorneys, the reality of Caribbean tourism concerns due to Venezuela's proximity, and why we're committed to building with local contractors and community members. Plus, we're giving you the honest truth about costs, location factors, and what we're really looking for in our dream property.

This is Part 1 of our Caribbean journey. We're comparing Grenada against St. Vincent and Bequia to find the perfect location for The Homestead Hideaway - our bar and retreat center launching in 2028. Whether you're thinking about international expansion, considering a major pivot, or just want to see what happens when you stop playing small and start building your biggest dreams, this episode shows you the practical steps, the scary moments, and the absolute faith required to make it happen. Part 2 drops next week with our Bequia visit and the BIG decision!

Key Takeaways:

• International business expansion requires in-person scouting - virtual tours aren't enough
• Build relationships with local entrepreneurs and community leaders from day one
• Location matters: accessibility, tourism traffic, sailboat presence, and neighborhood development
• Three-year timelines keep major projects realistic and achievable
• Consider political and economic factors affecting regional tourism (like Venezuela proximity)
• Up-and-coming areas offer better value and growth potential
• Property must check multiple boxes: right amount of land, manageable slope, great location
• Connect with locals and understand the community before committing
• Trust your vision but stay flexible - not every property will be perfect
• Faith and business work together when you surrender the outcome to God's plan
• Document your journey - your process inspires others to dream bigger
• Meeting potential neighbors shows you what's possible on similar land
• Factor in real costs: drinks, groceries, living expenses are often less than the US
• Safety and driving challenges are real (left-side driving is no joke!)
• Part 2 coming next week: St. Vincent, Bequia exploration, and our final decision

Connect with Us:

🎙 @neverstopdreamingbiggie 📱 @angelpholmes 🌐 sipindipity.com 📧 angel@neverstopdreamingbiggie.com

Learn More:

🌴 The Holmestead Bar & Retreat 👩‍💼 The Brighter Side Society

In Episode 40 of Never Stop Dreaming Biggie, I'm sharing one of my most vulnerable moments - the day I sat in a parking lot ready to quit everything. The Brighter Side Society, this podcast, all of it. This raw, honest episode walks you through my breakdown, what my AI COO said that changed everything, and the Keep-Improve-Release framework that pulled me back from the edge. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by your own success, wondered if you're giving too much for too little return, or questioned whether to keep going - this episode is for you.

I share my 2025 Victory Timeline (launching the Brighter Side, starting this podcast, becoming a Charleston Magazine top 50 influencer, one year depression-free, and more) to show you how to celebrate your wins even when you feel like you're failing. This episode reveals why over-giving was destroying my business, the trap of chasing clients 7-10 times before they join, and why I finally stopped. You'll also hear my Zyia activewear story - what happened when I quit right before my breakthrough - and why you're probably closer to success than you think when you want to give up.

This isn't just another "hang in there" pep talk. It's a practical guide to ending your year with calm, clarity, and confidence instead of chaos. Plus, I'm asking for your help - I need feedback from listeners about what you want from this podcast moving forward.

Key Takeaways:

• Track your Victory Timeline using phone photos and social media to remember your wins
• When overwhelmed, talk it out (even if it's with ChatGPT) to gain perspective
• KEEP only what's truly important and moves the needle this December
• IMPROVE one major process or system that's draining your energy
• RELEASE everything you don't need to carry into 2026
• Stop chasing clients 7-10 times - let them come to you instead
• Over-giving and over-delivering can destroy your business
• There's a difference between giving up (bad) and releasing (good)
• You're often right at the cusp of greatness when you want to quit
• Focus on calm, clarity, and confidence (not chaos) for the new year

Connect with Us:

🎙 @neverstopdreamingbiggie 📱 @angelpholmes 🌐 sipindipity.com 📧 angel@neverstopdreamingbiggie.com

Learn More:

🌴 The Holmestead Bar & Retreat 👩‍💼 The Brighter Side Society

In Episode 29 of Never Stop Dreaming Biggie, I'm joined by Jill Forbes for one of the most powerful conversations we've had on this podcast. Jill is a missions leader, marriage ministry facilitator, business owner, and widow who's learning to dream again after the sudden loss of her husband Heath in May 2024. This raw, honest episode dives deep into how to keep building your dreams when life falls apart, why your circumstances don't disqualify you from your calling, and how to prepare for life's most unexpected moments.

Jill shares her incredible journey from meeting Heath on a mission trip to building a 23-year marriage with a family mission statement that guided every decision, to standing on the front row of his funeral at age 43 with three kids still at home. Her transparency about the fear of dreaming without "bumpers" (Heath was her engineer dream-crusher who kept her grounded), continuing in SYMBIS marriage ministry as a widow, and developing curriculum to help others prepare for unexpected loss will challenge how you think about grief, purpose, and ministry qualification.

This episode also reveals how Brian and I found SYMBIS marriage ministry after our own stories of divorce and remarriage, why getting your relationships right today matters more than you think, and the practical ways you can prepare—emotionally, relationally, and spiritually—for life's hardest moments. Whether you're walking through grief, feeling disqualified from your calling, or simply want to make sure you're prepared for whatever comes, this conversation offers both comfort and actionable wisdom.

The "B" in Biggie stands for Believe - and this episode challenges us to believe not just in our own dreams, but to surrender to God's dreams for us, which are always bigger than what we can imagine for ourselves.

Key Takeaways:

• Continue in your calling even when circumstances make you feel disqualified
• Learn to dream without "bumpers" while creating your own healthy parameters
• Prepare for unexpected loss practically, relationally, and spiritually now
• Make sure your relationships are in the right place today (not when it's too late)
• Remember funerals are for the living - create space for healing
• Don't waste a season of pain - find the purpose God has in it
• Soldiers prepare in peace, not in war - get things in order before crisis hits
• Ask: "If I lost my spouse tomorrow, what would they worry about most?"
• Forgive and release grudges for your benefit and abundance
• Dream God's dreams for kingdom purpose, not just personal success

Connect with Us:

🎙 @neverstopdreamingbiggie

📱 @angelpholmes

🌐 sipindipity.com

📧 angel@neverstopdreamingbiggie.com

Learn More:

🌴 The Holmestead Bar & Retreat

👩‍💼 The Brighter Side Society

🪓 Lumberjills Axe Throwing (Summerville, SC)

⛪ SYMBIS Marriage Ministry - Seacoast Church

Episode Summary:

In Episode 38 of Never Stop Dreaming Biggie, I'm sharing powerful gratitude practices for entrepreneurs during this Thanksgiving week, plus featuring our Biggie Member of the Week: Chef Alexis Mungin! This special episode dives deep into how gratitude becomes the difference between a happy entrepreneur and one struggling with comparison and overwhelm, while celebrating an incredible woman who's built a thriving catering business through faith and divine provision.

I'm sharing practical gratitude habits that successful entrepreneurs use daily - from keeping a gratitude journal and reaching out to one person each day with appreciation, to the "treasure vs. trash" framework that helps you find the good in every situation. Plus, hear Alexis's jaw-dropping story of going from a food critic at age 4 (who almost chose her cheese grits over her family in a house fire!) to feeding the wealthiest people in South Carolina without ever attending culinary school. Her journey proves that when you trust God's calling and use your natural gifts, miracles, works, and wonders follow.

Whether you're struggling with comparison, feeling isolated in your entrepreneurial journey, or wondering how to maintain gratitude when building a business, this conversation offers both inspiration and actionable strategies. Alexis also shares about launching her new podcast "By the Grace of Grits" and her vision to become the Oprah-meets-Martha of the food world, creating platforms that bring people together through food, storytelling, and community.

The "G" in Biggie stands for Give - and this episode is all about gratitude as a giving practice, finding ways to serve others monthly for perspective, and how giving back keeps us grounded in what truly matters while building our dreams.

Key Takeaways:

• Write down daily gratitude to remember the good (we forget blessings but remember struggles)
• Reach out to one person daily expressing appreciation or checking in on them
• Use the "treasure vs. trash" framework to find the good in every situation
• Serve others at least once monthly to gain perspective on your blessings
• Practice forgiveness to release yourself (not the other person) for abundance
• Recognize divine provision and "God moments" in your entrepreneurial journey
• Trust your natural gifts and calling that were planted in childhood
• Build business relationships through food, gathering, and shared experiences
• Avoid isolation and comparison - they kill entrepreneurial joy and energy
• Find peace with everyone even if you're not friends (release the grudge for you)

Connect with Us:

🎙 @neverstopdreamingbiggie

📱 @angelpholmes

🌐 sipindipity.com

📧 angel@neverstopdreamingbiggie.com

Learn More:

🌴 The Holmestead Bar & Retreat

👩‍💼 The Brighter Side Society

🎙 By the Grace of Grits Podcast (Alexis Mungin)

📱 Connect with Alexis Mungin on Facebook