There's no perfect way on how to navigate difficult and heavy times. Right now, we live in a city that is once again at the center of national headlines and we are experiencing a lot of heaviness, grief, pain, and so many other things. There are no words, there is no perfect response, and in this episode I just wanted to have an honest reflection. No script, no perfectly planned episode, just speaking from the heart on this one. There's a lot more I could have said, but out of a lack of capacity this was all I felt I could share right now.

In this episode of the Take Your Shot podcast, I’m walking you through how to start the year intentionally—without falling into the trap of trying to do everything at once. If you tend to come into January with big ideas, high motivation, and a long list of things you want to change, this conversation is for you.

We’re talking about why this season should be viewed as a marathon, not a sprint, and how real, long-term success comes from slowing down enough to reflect, reset, and build a plan that’s actually sustainable.

Inside this episode, we cover:

What to intentionally carry into the new year—and what to let go of

The importance of dreaming big before jumping into tactics

Identifying the routines, systems, and distractions that are holding you back

How tools, outsourcing, and better systems can support your energy—not drain it

Why getting clear on your why is essential for goals that actually stick

The role community plays in building a fulfilling and sustainable business

I also share how I personally think about alignment, money, time freedom, and community—and why success without clarity or support often leads to burnout, even when things look good on paper.

To help you go deeper, I’ve created a free strategy and vision-setting guide that walks you through these questions step by step. You can copy it into a Google Doc, take it to a coffee shop, or use it during your own personal retreat—whatever helps you sit with your business and your life more intentionally.

Get the FREE 2026 Vision and Alignment Workbook!

https://take-your-shot.myflodesk.com/2026-vision-workbook

Free online community:

https://takeyourshotcollective.com/community

Free resources & guides (including the strategy/vision guide):

https://takeyourshotcollective.com/business-resources

One-on-one coaching with Halle:

https://takeyourshotcollective.com/coaching

Follow along on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/takeyourshotcollective

If you’re ready to set the tone for the year ahead in a way that feels grounded, thoughtful, and aligned, this episode is a great place to start.

Come say hi on Instagram and tell me what you’re most excited about this year. And if this episode resonated, screenshot it, share it, and tag us—I’d love to reshare and continue building this community together.

In today’s episode, I’m joined by Minneapolis DJ and event host Benny Nord for a conversation that every wedding pro needs to hear. Benny has become one of the most trusted DJs in our market — couples literally plan their wedding dates around his availability — and it has far less to do with music and far more to do with how he makes people feel.

We’re diving into the soft skills that truly transform the client experience and what it looks like to put people first, even in the busiest seasons of business.

• Why connection matters more than perfection in creative work

• How “looking up more often” completely shifts your presence on a wedding day

• The difference between guest experience and client experience — and why they’re inseparable

• How to know when a client isn’t the right fit (and how to turn them away with kindness)

• Handling unexpected moments with confidence and care

• The simple audits Benny uses to consistently improve his client experience

Whether you’re a photographer, videographer, planner, or any creative in the wedding space, this episode will help you rethink how you show up — not just technically, but relationally.

Instagram: @bennynord

UP Event Group: @upeventgroup

• Free Community: https://takeyourshotcollective.com/community

• Business Resources + Discounts: https://takeyourshotcollective.com/business-resources

• Coaching with Halle: https://takeyourshotcollective.com/coaching

• Follow on Instagram: @takeyourshotcollective