The Power of Resilience, Family, and Finding Purpose

Special Guest: Crystal Kokal

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In this heartfelt episode of Live Into Your Best Life, I sit down with my sister, Crystal Kokal, for a deeply personal conversation about our childhood, the values instilled in us, and the way those experiences have shaped our adult lives. We reminisce about growing up on a remote farm, where our tight-knit family of four created unbreakable bonds. Those formative years taught us the importance of resilience, adaptability, and connection—qualities that continue to guide us today.

Crystal shares how her love for planning and travel led her to a career in the travel industry, driven by a desire to help our parents reconnect with distant family. But life, as always, had its twists and turns. She opens up about raising two incredible sons—one who navigated complex systems due to his brilliance and another who overcame medical challenges to thrive. Through it all, she remained steadfast in her commitment to giving back, recalling a major fundraising effort where she helped collect thousands of blankets for Project Linus to support children in need.

We also explore how our mother’s love for cooking influenced Crystal’s entrepreneurial journey. She candidly shares her transition from being a full-time caretaker to rediscovering her passion and skills in a new way. The challenges of major career pivots—especially after global events like 9/11 and COVID—led her to embrace entrepreneurship, launching Sassy Frost, a thriving business specializing in custom sugar cookies and decorating classes. What started as a creative outlet has blossomed into a fulfilling venture that blends artistry, teaching, and community building.

Throughout our conversation, we reflect on the ways childhood experiences shape our mindset, the impact of strong family values, and the importance of allowing children to explore their strengths without rigid expectations.

Key Takeaways:

• Childhood experiences and family values shape lifelong resilience.
• Career pivots can be opportunities for self-discovery and reinvention.
• Parenting requires adaptability—every child has a unique journey.
• Giving back to the community can be deeply fulfilling.
• Entrepreneurship can emerge from passion and necessity.

Check out Crystal’s beautiful cookies at Sassyfras Cookies

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