In this episode, Kristianna Mrjenovich interviews Isabelle Kratz, Miss Teen Galaxy Australia 2025, who shares her journey of overcoming bullying and mental health struggles. Isabelle discusses the importance of support systems, her experience in the pageantry world, and her platform 'For Every Beautiful Body' aimed at empowering women and girls. The conversation highlights the significance of self-love, resilience, and the impact of creating inclusive spaces for those facing similar challenges. Isabelle emphasizes that age is just a number and encourages listeners to take action towards their goals without waiting for the 'right time.'

• Isabelle faced bullying that significantly impacted her mental health.
• Support from family and friends was crucial in her recovery.
• The pageantry system provided a sense of sisterhood and empowerment.
• Isabelle's platform focuses on mental health and body positivity.
• She emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and gratitude.
• Isabelle believes in the power of sharing personal stories to inspire others.
• She encourages young people to pursue their passions regardless of age.
• Isabelle's journey reflects the importance of resilience and self-growth.
• Creating inclusive spaces for women and girls is essential.
• Isabelle's experience shows that transformation can come from adversity.

In this episode of the Second Chance Queen podcast, Kristianna Mrjenovich interviews Nikia Rockley, a passionate advocate for heart health and seasoned pageant competitor. Nikia shares her transformative second chance story following a near-fatal horse riding accident, her journey in pageantry, and her commitment to community service. She discusses the importance of heart health awareness, the physical demands of horse riding, and how her experiences have shaped her resilience and confidence. Nikia emphasizes the significance of authenticity and the power of a positive mindset, inspiring listeners to embrace their own second chances.

takeaways

• Nikia's near-fatal horse riding accident led to a life reset.
• Pageantry is about community, sisterhood, and uplifting others.
• Setting SMART goals is crucial for success in pageants.
• Heart health awareness is vital, especially for young people.
• Moderate exercise can be as simple as a daily walk.
• Horse riding provides both physical exercise and emotional connection.
• Patience is key in both horse riding and pageantry.
• Confidence grows from failure and surrounding oneself with positivity.
• Resilience is built through personal challenges and experiences.
• Authenticity is essential for true success in pageantry.

In this episode of the Second Chance Queen podcast, host Kristianna Mrjenovich interviews Nilu Karuna Ratne, a national finalist in the Australia Galaxy Pageant 2025. Nilu shares her inspiring journey of overcoming postpartum depression and anxiety, her advocacy for mental health awareness, and her legacy project, Empowering Mothers. The conversation delves into cultural barriers surrounding mental health, the importance of community support, and how pageantry has played a role in Nilu's personal growth and confidence building. Nilu emphasizes the significance of self-care and offers practical advice for new mothers, highlighting the need for open discussions about mental health.

• Nilu overcame postpartum depression and anxiety without medication.
• Cultural barriers often prevent discussions about mental health.
• Empowering Mothers is Nilu's legacy project aimed at supporting new moms.
• Self-care is crucial for mental well-being and confidence.
• Nilu encourages mothers to participate in pageantry for personal growth.
• Meal trains are a practical way to support new mothers.
• Community support is vital for mothers facing postpartum challenges.
• Nilu's journey emphasizes the strength in seeking help.
• Pageantry can amplify advocacy for important causes.
• Nilu's story highlights the importance of sharing experiences to help others.

In this episode of the Second Chance Queen podcast, Kristianna Mrjenovich interviews Mary Dunham, a professional henna artist and former Mrs. Maine International, who shares her journey of empowerment through art and her personal story of reunion with her birth family. Mary discusses the challenges and triumphs of being adopted, her experiences as a Latina tattoo artist in a predominantly white state, and the importance of resilience and authenticity in her life. The conversation highlights the significance of body art as a form of self-expression and healing, as well as the power of women supporting each other in their journeys.

takeaways

• Mary Dunham empowers women through her art, helping them reclaim their bodies.
• Her reunion with her birth family was a pivotal moment in her life.
• Mary emphasizes the importance of resilience in overcoming life's challenges.
• She advocates for the representation of BIPOC women in the arts.
• Confidence comes from being free to be oneself, not seeking external validation.
• Tattoos serve as a powerful form of self-expression and healing.
• Mary's work creates a safe space for women to share their stories.
• The journey of adoption can be complex but also rewarding.
• Women supporting women is crucial for empowerment.
• Authenticity is key to building confidence and self-acceptance.

In this episode, Kristianna Mrjenovich, the Second Chance Queen, shares her personal journey of healing after experiencing abuse. She discusses the challenges of transitioning to a healthy relationship and the importance of recognizing triggers and managing emotional responses. Kristianna emphasizes the need for self-discovery and understanding what a healthy relationship looks like, while also providing resources for those in abusive situations. The conversation highlights the complexities of healing and the importance of giving oneself grace during the recovery process.

takeaways

• Reacclimating to a healthy relationship is challenging after abuse.
• It's crucial to report abuse to aid in the healing process.
• Leaving an abusive situation doesn't mean instant healing.
• Recognizing triggers is essential for emotional recovery.
• Healthy relationships require understanding and communication.
• Self-discovery is vital after leaving an abusive relationship.
• Safety in new relationships can feel boring but is essential.
• Physical intimacy should be enjoyable and consensual.
• Therapy is highly recommended for abuse survivors.
• Creating a new life after abuse is possible with support.

In this inspiring conversation, Kristianna Mrjenovich interviews Lisa Bennett, the first Ms Universal Petite Australia 2025, who shares her powerful journey of resilience after undergoing open-heart surgery. Lisa discusses the mental health challenges she faced during recovery, her mission to empower the petite community, and her preparations for international competition. The conversation emphasizes the importance of self-love, confidence, and the impact of personal experiences on one's journey to inspire others.

takeaways

• Lisa's heart surgery was a life-changing experience that gave her a second chance.
• Mental health recovery can often take longer than physical recovery.
• Grief can come from losing aspects of your health, not just from death.
• Lisa's journey led her to become an emergency responder, breaking stereotypes.
• The petite community needs representation and empowerment in pageantry.
• Confidence is about believing in yourself and embracing your uniqueness.
• Self-care is essential for overall well-being and happiness.
• Women should not let health challenges define their self-worth.
• Lisa aims to inspire women to love themselves and be confident.
• The journey of recovery is ongoing and requires continuous self-reflection.

In this episode, Kristianna Mrjenovich, the Second Chance Queen, discusses the pivotal role of self-care in building confidence and maintaining mental health. She breaks down self-care into three categories: past, present, and future self-care, emphasizing the importance of addressing past traumas, practicing present self-care routines, and planning for future goals. Kristianna shares personal experiences and insights on how self-awareness and intentional self-care can lead to a healthier, more fulfilling life.

takeaways

• Self-care is essential for mental health.
• There are three forms of self-care: past, present, and future.
• Past self-care involves healing from trauma.
• Therapy is a valuable tool for self-discovery.
• Self-awareness helps in managing emotional triggers.
• Present self-care includes daily practices that recharge you.
• Future self-care is about setting and working towards goals.
• Self-care is not selfish; it's necessary for well-being.
• Mental care is a crucial aspect of health care.
• Everyone deserves support in their self-care journey.

In this episode, Kristianna Mrjenovich interviews Chloe Mae Page, Ms. American Elegance 2024-2025, who shares her inspiring journey of overcoming Erb's Palsy through performing arts. Chloe discusses her passion for teaching dance, the importance of confidence, and her platform 'Theater for All' which advocates for accessibility in the arts. The conversation touches on themes of resilience, mentorship, and the duality of second chances, as well as Chloe's aspirations in pageantry and theater.

• Chloe was born with Erb's Palsy, which led her to physical therapy from a young age.
• Baton twirling became a form of therapy and a competitive outlet for Chloe.
• Chloe emphasizes the importance of teaching confidence to her students.
• Imposter syndrome is a common struggle, even for accomplished individuals.
• Confidence is about being willing to be yourself and take risks.
• Chloe aims to empower others with disabilities through her platform.
• Theater for All focuses on inclusivity and accessibility in the arts.
• Chloe believes in the importance of self-care and pursuing passions.
• The arts will continue to thrive as long as there are passionate individuals.
• Chloe's dream role is to play Galinda in 'Wicked'.