In this powerhouse conversation, we reconnect with author, coach, and unapologetic truth-teller Branden LaNette — and it’s everything we hoped it would be: raw, hilarious, and deeply human. From chaos and creativity to politics and faith, we go all in. We open lightheartedly — old radio days, dive bars, Michigan memories — and quickly land where Built This Way always goes: truth over polish. We talk about rediscovering voice, both literally and emotionally, after years of doubt, burnout, and self-censorship. Branden shares how she went from bartending to bestselling author, grinding through rejection and self-doubt until she finally published Once Upon a Time, Bitches. Her story of being rejected for a $12,000 “opportunity,” only to have the same publisher call her back with a two-book deal, sets the tone for everything she stands for — grit, faith, and the refusal to wait for permission. From there, we dive into motherhood, business, and the myth of balance. Branden, a mom of six and host of multiple podcasts (Faith & Fire, Listen, Bitch, The Boiling Point), calls balance a “bullshit lie.” We agree — you can’t do it all, and you’ll never make everyone happy. We trade stories of overworking, guilt, and grace — and how giving ourselves permission to be “just okay” some days is survival. The through line? Progress beats perfection every time. Then the tone shifts. We move into the power of voice — how podcasting gives women the freedom to say the things social media censors. Branden shares her faith journey: reading the Bible daily, surrendering control, and discovering purpose through loss. That leads us into politics and womanhood — a fiery, unfiltered exchange on leadership, gender, and the spiritual decay of our culture. We debate what true representation looks like, what leadership should mean, and why both of us crave honesty over optics. The episode closes where Built This Way lives — real emotion. We talk about grief, family, the cost of speaking out, and the freedom in finally doing it anyway. Branden reminds us no one’s coming to save us — not a hero, not a system, not a party. It’s on us to rise, to use our voices, and to stop waiting for permission to live boldly. This is one of those episodes you don’t half-listen to — you feel it.
🌐 Website: BrandenLaNette.com
🎧 Listen Bitch Podcast: Spotify
🔥 Faith & Fire Podcast: Spotify
📚 Once Upon a Time, Bitches: Amazon
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