Épisodes

  • What Pageant Judges Are Actually Responding To

    What Pageant Judges Are Actually Responding To
    Feb 3 2026

    Why do some contestants keep placing but never win, even when they are prepared, polished, and hardworking?

    In this episode, Coach Megan explains why pageantry is not a merit-based system and why judges are responding less to effort and more to presence, confidence, and perception.

    She breaks down how over-preparing can actually hurt your performance, what judges feel instantly but rarely say out loud, and why internal alignment matters more than a perfect résumé in modern pageants.

    This episode is for contestants who want to understand what pageant judges are really looking for in 2026 and how to stop blending in when it matters most.

    Apply to Work with Us: sessions.powerhousepageantry.com/strategy

    Get Your Mastermind Ticket Here ➡️ https://howtowinyourpageant.com/event

    Click here to access 25 Courses for $47 👉 howtowinyourpageant.com

    Follow Me on IG:

    www.instagram.com/meganswansonrhodes

    Watch on Youtube www.youtube.com/@powerhousepageantry

    PODCAST ESSENTIALS & GEAR I USE

    Blue Yeti Microphone https://amzn.to/3ZodLfr

    Webcam https://a.co/d/8lKR6TA

    Silver Yeti Glitter Wrap: https://amzn.to/3LiTSjR

    Awesome Computer-Attached Light https://amzn.to/3P5WByh

    As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you.

    Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3nbUVyQqfT5CLYSZO6wWgs?si=abf5437f5e5c413b

    Listen on Apple Podcasts:

    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-powerhouse-podcast-how-to-win-your-pageant-how-to/id1448191693

    On this podcast, we talk about…

    pageant winner story, faith testimony, Christian women’s empowerment, pageant interview tips, Powerhouse Pageantry Podcast, Megan Rhodes, women of faith leadership, resilience after trauma, pageant interview questions, how to answer pageant interview, pageant platform example, current events pageant questions, pageant storytelling, pageant coaching, miss interview tips, identity work for women, faith and identity, purpose over performance, self worth vs achievement, you are not what you do, values alignment, limiting beliefs, belief reprogramming, identity shift, core state change, inner child work, mindset reset, confidence from identity, purpose driven life, Christian identity coaching, life after pageants, life after big goal, rebuild confidence after failure, how to find purpose again, sustainable success habits, daily check-in routine, evening reflection practice, morning identity routine, goal setting that sticks, break perfectionism paralysis, progress over perfection, achievement addiction, identity work, mindset coaching, pageant mindset, dopamine trap, burnout recovery, confidence, Christian coaching, neurolinguistic programming
    Voir plus Voir moins
    10 min
  • How to Position Yourself as a Category of One in Pageants (2026 Strategy)

    How to Position Yourself as a Category of One in Pageants (2026 Strategy)
    Jan 27 2026
    In this episode, Coach Megan introduces a concept she has never taught publicly before: how to position yourself as a Category of One in pageantry. If you feel like you are doing everything right but still blending in, this conversation will shift how you think about standing out, being chosen, and why subjectivity in pageants is actually an advantage. Megan unpacks what positioning really means, how judges form trust and first impressions, and why copying past winners often works against you in 2026. You will hear about: What Category of One positioning actually is How aesthetics, consistency, and clarity affect how judges perceive you Why authenticity matters more than perfection What quietly hurts your positioning without you realizing it This episode goes beyond tactics and into identity, presence, and what makes someone unforgettable before they ever speak. If you are ready to stop blending in and start being remembered, this episode is for you. Tiny challenge -> DM ‘RESET’ on IG @powerhousepageantry Apply to Work with Us: sessions.powerhousepageantry.com/strategy Get Your Mastermind Ticket Here ➡️ https://howtowinyourpageant.com/event Click here to access 25 Courses for $47 👉 howtowinyourpageant.com Follow Me on IG: www.instagram.com/meganswansonrhodes Watch on Youtube www.youtube.com/@powerhousepageantry PODCAST ESSENTIALS & GEAR I USE Blue Yeti Microphone https://amzn.to/3ZodLfr Webcam https://a.co/d/8lKR6TA Silver Yeti Glitter Wrap: https://amzn.to/3LiTSjR Awesome Computer-Attached Light https://amzn.to/3P5WByh As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3nbUVyQqfT5CLYSZO6wWgs?si=abf5437f5e5c413b Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-powerhouse-podcast-how-to-win-your-pageant-how-to/id1448191693 On this podcast, we talk about… pageant winner story, faith testimony, Christian women’s empowerment, pageant interview tips, Powerhouse Pageantry Podcast, Megan Rhodes, women of faith leadership, resilience after trauma, pageant interview questions, how to answer pageant interview, pageant platform example, current events pageant questions, pageant storytelling, pageant coaching, miss interview tips, identity work for women, faith and identity, purpose over performance, self worth vs achievement, you are not what you do, values alignment, limiting beliefs, belief reprogramming, identity shift, core state change, inner child work, mindset reset, confidence from identity, purpose driven life, Christian identity coaching, life after pageants, life after big goal, rebuild confidence after failure, how to find purpose again, sustainable success habits, daily check-in routine, evening reflection practice, morning identity routine, goal setting that sticks, break perfectionism paralysis, progress over perfection, achievement addiction, identity work, mindset coaching, pageant mindset, dopamine trap, burnout recovery, confidence, Christian coaching, neurolinguistic programming
    Voir plus Voir moins
    11 min
  • What Makes Pageant Judges Say Yes To You in 2026

    What Makes Pageant Judges Say Yes To You in 2026
    Jan 20 2026
    In this episode, Coach Megan Rhodes challenges a core belief in pageantry: that more polish, more perfection, and more rehearsed answers are what win. They are not. Judges in 2026 are fatigued. They have heard the same platforms, the same buzzwords, and the same scripted confidence. What they are actually looking for now is someone they trust to do the job. Megan unpacks what has quietly shifted behind the judging table, why performing is working against many high achievers, and how regulated presence, clarity, and authenticity are becoming the real differentiators. You will hear: Why starting prep without the end in mind is costing women crownsWhat long answers often signal to judges, even when you are qualifiedWhy identity matters more than performance when it comes to being chosenHow presence communicates trust faster than perfection ever could This conversation goes deeper than pageantry into leadership, self trust, and the hidden ceilings that keep capable women placing but not winning. Stay to the end for a special quarterly bonus Megan opens only a few times a year for women ready to break through what has been holding them back. Apply to Work with Us: sessions.powerhousepageantry.com/strategy Get Your Mastermind Ticket Here ➡️ https://howtowinyourpageant.com/event Click here to access 25 Courses for $47 👉 howtowinyourpageant.com Follow Me on IG: www.instagram.com/meganswansonrhodes Watch on Youtube www.youtube.com/@powerhousepageantry PODCAST ESSENTIALS & GEAR I USE Blue Yeti Microphone https://amzn.to/3ZodLfr Webcam https://a.co/d/8lKR6TA Silver Yeti Glitter Wrap: https://amzn.to/3LiTSjR Awesome Computer-Attached Light https://amzn.to/3P5WByh As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3nbUVyQqfT5CLYSZO6wWgs?si=abf5437f5e5c413b Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-powerhouse-podcast-how-to-win-your-pageant-how-to/id1448191693 On this podcast, we talk about… pageant winner story, faith testimony, Christian women’s empowerment, pageant interview tips, Powerhouse Pageantry Podcast, Megan Rhodes, women of faith leadership, resilience after trauma, pageant interview questions, how to answer pageant interview, pageant platform example, current events pageant questions, pageant storytelling, pageant coaching, miss interview tips, identity work for women, faith and identity, purpose over performance, self worth vs achievement, you are not what you do, values alignment, limiting beliefs, belief reprogramming, identity shift, core state change, inner child work, mindset reset, confidence from identity, purpose driven life, Christian identity coaching, life after pageants, life after big goal, rebuild confidence after failure, how to find purpose again, sustainable success habits, daily check-in routine, evening reflection practice, morning identity routine, goal setting that sticks, break perfectionism paralysis, progress over perfection, achievement addiction, identity work, mindset coaching, pageant mindset, dopamine trap, burnout recovery, confidence, Christian coaching, neurolinguistic programming
    Voir plus Voir moins
    32 min
  • Miss America’s Teen Success Stories: Pageant Coaching, Confidence, and God’s Timing

    Miss America’s Teen Success Stories: Pageant Coaching, Confidence, and God’s Timing
    Jan 13 2026
    In this fireside-chat episode, Coach Megan sits down with two of Powerhouse Pageantry’s standout success stories: Kirra McCarty (Idaho) and Gabriela “Gabby” Swift (Nebraska), current titleholders in the Miss America Organization teen program. You’ll hear two completely different journeys: Kirra: a competitor who placed high early, faced loss and disappointment, then returned with a deeper faith and stronger identity. Gabby: a first-time competitor who stepped into pageantry late, went all-in, and won on her first try—while navigating body image struggles and major life challenges. They’ll talk about what actually creates winners: identity, community, perseverance, and faith. What You’ll Hear In This Episode How Kirra went from podcast listener → Pageant Academy → Mastermind → titleholder The heartbreak of losing, the fear of trying again, and the mindset shift that changed everything The unexpected “God timing” twist when the Miss America teen age rules changed—twice Why Gabby knew she couldn’t DIY her prep: structure, reps, interviews, and staying grounded How Mastermind friendships created daily motivation and accountability during prep The truth about “sisterhood”: what it’s actually like in a high-level competitive room Gabby’s story of eating disorder recovery and why she shifted her CSI to match her real life Kirra’s “if I lose, I can’t show my face” fear—and the blunt coaching moment that freed her How both girls learned to balance authenticity + excellence (style, wardrobe, hair, makeup) What makes Powerhouse coaching different: personal strategy, faith-forward identity work, and becoming well-rounded Get Your Mastermind Ticket Here ➡️ https://howtowinyourpageant.com/event Connect with Kirra + Gabby Kirra: @kirradmccarty @kirramccartypageant @missamericasteenid Gabby: @gabriellagswift @missamericasteenne Apply to Work with Us: sessions.powerhousepageantry.com/strategy Click here to access 25 Courses for $47 👉 howtowinyourpageant.com Follow Me on IG: www.instagram.com/meganswansonrhodes Watch on Youtube www.youtube.com/@powerhousepageantry PODCAST ESSENTIALS & GEAR I USE Blue Yeti Microphone https://amzn.to/3ZodLfr Webcam https://a.co/d/8lKR6TA Silver Yeti Glitter Wrap: https://amzn.to/3LiTSjR Awesome Computer-Attached Light https://amzn.to/3P5WByh As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3nbUVyQqfT5CLYSZO6wWgs?si=abf5437f5e5c413b Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-powerhouse-podcast-how-to-win-your-pageant-how-to/id1448191693 On this podcast, we talk about… pageant winner story, faith testimony, Christian women’s empowerment, pageant interview tips, Powerhouse Pageantry Podcast, Megan Rhodes, women of faith leadership, resilience after trauma, pageant interview questions, how to answer pageant interview, pageant platform example, current events pageant questions, pageant storytelling, pageant coaching, miss interview tips, identity work for women, faith and identity, purpose over performance, self worth vs achievement, you are not what you do, values alignment, limiting beliefs, belief reprogramming, identity shift, core state change, inner child work, mindset reset, confidence from identity, purpose driven life, Christian identity coaching, life after pageants, life after big goal, rebuild confidence after failure, how to find purpose again, sustainable success habits, daily check-in routine, evening reflection practice, morning identity routine, goal setting that sticks, break perfectionism paralysis, progress over perfection, achievement addiction, identity work, mindset coaching, pageant mindset, dopamine trap, burnout recovery, confidence, Christian coaching, neurolinguistic programming
    Voir plus Voir moins
    58 min
  • Why Your Goals Die by February (and How to Stop It) — Landon + Megan Rhodes

    Why Your Goals Die by February (and How to Stop It) — Landon + Megan Rhodes
    Jan 6 2026
    In this special New Year episode, Megan brings on her husband Landon for a practical, faith-forward goal setting training originally taught inside their Tuesday morning Bible study. If you’ve ever started January motivated… then lost steam by day 5, day 30, or by Q2, this episode walks through why that happens and what to do instead—without spiraling into shame. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why goals fail when they’re disconnected from purpose + mission The difference between a goal (outcome) and your calling How to stop overthinking “God’s will” and start moving with faith + wisdom Why derailment doesn’t mean you missed God—it often means it’s time to recalibrate A simple “daily recalibration” mindset that keeps you on track long past January The hard truth: some goals don’t require faith… because they’re too small The “10x is easier than 2x” concept and why big goals eliminate distractions Identity work: how internal beliefs quietly sabotage progress (even when you “know what to do”) A practical framework for rewiring self-sabotage using leverage, pattern interrupts, and new associations A biblical lens on mindset: taking thoughts captive and dismantling “strongholds” Join our weekly Bible Study: meganswansonrhodes.com/bible-study Apply to Work with Us: sessions.powerhousepageantry.com/strategy Get Your Mastermind Ticket Here ➡️ https://howtowinyourpageant.com/event Click here to access 25 Courses for $47 👉 howtowinyourpageant.com Follow Me on IG: www.instagram.com/meganswansonrhodes Watch on Youtube www.youtube.com/@powerhousepageantry PODCAST ESSENTIALS & GEAR I USE Blue Yeti Microphone https://amzn.to/3ZodLfr Webcam https://a.co/d/8lKR6TA Silver Yeti Glitter Wrap: https://amzn.to/3LiTSjR Awesome Computer-Attached Light https://amzn.to/3P5WByh As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3nbUVyQqfT5CLYSZO6wWgs?si=abf5437f5e5c413b Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-powerhouse-podcast-how-to-win-your-pageant-how-to/id1448191693 On this podcast, we talk about… pageant winner story, faith testimony, Christian women’s empowerment, pageant interview tips, Powerhouse Pageantry Podcast, Megan Rhodes, women of faith leadership, resilience after trauma, pageant interview questions, how to answer pageant interview, pageant platform example, current events pageant questions, pageant storytelling, pageant coaching, miss interview tips, identity work for women, faith and identity, purpose over performance, self worth vs achievement, you are not what you do, values alignment, limiting beliefs, belief reprogramming, identity shift, core state change, inner child work, mindset reset, confidence from identity, purpose driven life, Christian identity coaching, life after pageants, life after big goal, rebuild confidence after failure, how to find purpose again, sustainable success habits, daily check-in routine, evening reflection practice, morning identity routine, goal setting that sticks, break perfectionism paralysis, progress over perfection, achievement addiction, identity work, mindset coaching, pageant mindset, dopamine trap, burnout recovery, confidence, Christian coaching, neurolinguistic programming
    Voir plus Voir moins
    1 h et 23 min
  • The TALK Method Part 2: From Small Talk to Big Talk (Plus a Million-Dollar SURPRISE!)

    The TALK Method Part 2: From Small Talk to Big Talk (Plus a Million-Dollar SURPRISE!)
    Dec 31 2025

    If small talk makes you want to crawl into a hole, this episode is your way out.

    In Part 2, Megan breaks down the TALK Method from Harvard professor Alison Wood Brooks’ work: T = Topics (choose the right level for the room) A = Asking (better questions = better connection) L = Levity (how to use humor and warmth without being awkward) K = Kindness (how to make people feel safe, seen, and drawn to you)

    You’ll learn how to move conversations from surface-level to meaningful without forcing it, how to stop sounding “beige” in pageant settings, and why authenticity is the real confidence hack.

    Plus… Megan shares a personal, million-dollar surprise and opens a few limited spots to work with her one-on-one in 2026.

    Apply to Work with Us: sessions.powerhousepageantry.com/strategy

    Get Your Mastermind Ticket Here ➡️ https://howtowinyourpageant.com/event

    Click here to access 25 Courses for $47 👉 howtowinyourpageant.com

    Follow Me on IG:

    www.instagram.com/meganswansonrhodes

    Watch on Youtube www.youtube.com/@powerhousepageantry

    PODCAST ESSENTIALS & GEAR I USE

    Blue Yeti Microphone https://amzn.to/3ZodLfr

    Webcam https://a.co/d/8lKR6TA

    Silver Yeti Glitter Wrap: https://amzn.to/3LiTSjR

    Awesome Computer-Attached Light https://amzn.to/3P5WByh

    As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you.

    Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3nbUVyQqfT5CLYSZO6wWgs?si=abf5437f5e5c413b

    Listen on Apple Podcasts:

    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-powerhouse-podcast-how-to-win-your-pageant-how-to/id1448191693

    On this podcast, we talk about…

    pageant winner story, faith testimony, Christian women’s empowerment, pageant interview tips, Powerhouse Pageantry Podcast, Megan Rhodes, women of faith leadership, resilience after trauma, pageant interview questions, how to answer pageant interview, pageant platform example, current events pageant questions, pageant storytelling, pageant coaching, miss interview tips, identity work for women, faith and identity, purpose over performance, self worth vs achievement, you are not what you do, values alignment, limiting beliefs, belief reprogramming, identity shift, core state change, inner child work, mindset reset, confidence from identity, purpose driven life, Christian identity coaching, life after pageants, life after big goal, rebuild confidence after failure, how to find purpose again, sustainable success habits, daily check-in routine, evening reflection practice, morning identity routine, goal setting that sticks, break perfectionism paralysis, progress over perfection, achievement addiction, identity work, mindset coaching, pageant mindset, dopamine trap, burnout recovery, confidence, Christian coaching, neurolinguistic programming
    Voir plus Voir moins
    43 min
  • From Small Talk To Big Impact: How To Master The Art of Conversation Part 1

    From Small Talk To Big Impact: How To Master The Art of Conversation Part 1
    Dec 23 2025
    If the idea of small talk makes your stomach turn, you’re definitely not alone. In this episode, Megan breaks down why small talk feels so draining, why it’s often mislabeled as “social anxiety,” and the simple reframe that instantly lowers the pressure in any conversation. Drawing from research by Allison Wood Brooks, this conversation introduces a powerful framework for understanding how conversations actually work and why most people get stuck at the awkward surface-level. Megan also shares real-life examples from pageantry, dating, leadership, and business to show how mastering everyday conversations directly impacts confidence, likability, influence, and results. This is Part 1 of a two-part series and lays the foundation for why great communicators stand out everywhere, from interview rooms to first dates to boardrooms. If you’ve ever felt “forgettable,” anxious, or unsure how to move a conversation forward without oversharing, this episode will completely change how you see connection. Apply to Work with Us: sessions.powerhousepageantry.com/strategy Get Your Mastermind Ticket Here ➡️ https://howtowinyourpageant.com/event Click here to access 25 Courses for $47 👉 howtowinyourpageant.com Follow Me on IG: www.instagram.com/meganswansonrhodes Watch on Youtube www.youtube.com/@powerhousepageantry PODCAST ESSENTIALS & GEAR I USE Blue Yeti Microphone https://amzn.to/3ZodLfr Webcam https://a.co/d/8lKR6TA Silver Yeti Glitter Wrap: https://amzn.to/3LiTSjR Awesome Computer-Attached Light https://amzn.to/3P5WByh As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3nbUVyQqfT5CLYSZO6wWgs?si=abf5437f5e5c413b Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-powerhouse-podcast-how-to-win-your-pageant-how-to/id1448191693 On this podcast, we talk about… pageant winner story, faith testimony, Christian women’s empowerment, pageant interview tips, Powerhouse Pageantry Podcast, Megan Rhodes, women of faith leadership, resilience after trauma, pageant interview questions, how to answer pageant interview, pageant platform example, current events pageant questions, pageant storytelling, pageant coaching, miss interview tips, identity work for women, faith and identity, purpose over performance, self worth vs achievement, you are not what you do, values alignment, limiting beliefs, belief reprogramming, identity shift, core state change, inner child work, mindset reset, confidence from identity, purpose driven life, Christian identity coaching, life after pageants, life after big goal, rebuild confidence after failure, how to find purpose again, sustainable success habits, daily check-in routine, evening reflection practice, morning identity routine, goal setting that sticks, break perfectionism paralysis, progress over perfection, achievement addiction, identity work, mindset coaching, pageant mindset, dopamine trap, burnout recovery, confidence, Christian coaching, neurolinguistic programming
    Voir plus Voir moins
    35 min
  • The 12 Interview Answers Sabotaging Your Pageant Score

    The 12 Interview Answers Sabotaging Your Pageant Score
    Dec 16 2025

    In this episode of the Powerhouse Podcast, Coach Megan breaks down why so many pageant interviews fall flat—even when contestants feel confident walking out of the room. She exposes the subtle, well-intentioned answers judges hear over and over again, and why those responses quietly drain scores instead of elevating them.

    This conversation goes beyond “what to say” and gets into how judges actually perceive identity, confidence, connection, and authenticity in the interview room. If you’ve ever left interview surprised by your placement, struggled to stand out despite strong preparation, or felt like you were saying the “right” things without being remembered, this episode will shift how you think about interview entirely.

    Expect mindset reframes, behind-the-scenes judge psychology, and a new lens on what makes an answer unforgettable—not just correct.

    Get Your Mastermind Ticket Here ➡️ https://howtowinyourpageant.com/event

    Click here to access 25 Courses for $47 👉 howtowinyourpageant.com

    Follow Me on IG:

    www.instagram.com/meganswansonrhodes

    Watch on Youtube www.youtube.com/@powerhousepageantry

    PODCAST ESSENTIALS & GEAR I USE

    Blue Yeti Microphone https://amzn.to/3ZodLfr

    Webcam https://a.co/d/8lKR6TA

    Silver Yeti Glitter Wrap: https://amzn.to/3LiTSjR

    Awesome Computer-Attached Light https://amzn.to/3P5WByh

    As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you.

    Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3nbUVyQqfT5CLYSZO6wWgs?si=abf5437f5e5c413b

    Listen on Apple Podcasts:

    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-powerhouse-podcast-how-to-win-your-pageant-how-to/id1448191693

    On this podcast, we talk about…

    pageant winner story, faith testimony, Christian women’s empowerment, pageant interview tips, Powerhouse Pageantry Podcast, Megan Rhodes, women of faith leadership, resilience after trauma, pageant interview questions, how to answer pageant interview, pageant platform example, current events pageant questions, pageant storytelling, pageant coaching, miss interview tips, identity work for women, faith and identity, purpose over performance, self worth vs achievement, you are not what you do, values alignment, limiting beliefs, belief reprogramming, identity shift, core state change, inner child work, mindset reset, confidence from identity, purpose driven life, Christian identity coaching, life after pageants, life after big goal, rebuild confidence after failure, how to find purpose again, sustainable success habits, daily check-in routine, evening reflection practice, morning identity routine, goal setting that sticks, break perfectionism paralysis, progress over perfection, achievement addiction, identity work, mindset coaching, pageant mindset, dopamine trap, burnout recovery, confidence, Christian coaching, neurolinguistic programming
    Voir plus Voir moins
    30 min