Episode Details

n this powerful and uplifting episode, hosts Julie and Mika sit down with a real-life queen—Mrs. Illinois America 2025, Tracy Heisler Drost. With zero prior pageant experience, Tracy’s journey into the world of pageantry started with a simple family mantra: “Try.” What began as a way to discover purpose after her daughter went off to college turned into a life-changing quest of giving back, personal growth, and inspiring others to step out of their comfort zones.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How Tracy’s family’s guiding word “Try” propelled her to tackle new challenges—including entering (and winning) the Mrs. Illinois America pageant
• The step-by-step process of how Tracy went from commercial modeling to representing Illinois on the national stage without previous pageant experience
• Candid insights into balancing motherhood, marriage, volunteering, and the demands of being Mrs. Illinois
• The family culture of giving back: From monthly pandemic-inspired volunteer projects to raising philanthropic children
• The powerful impact of doing “one big thing” each year—running marathons, century rides, and taking on epic personal challenges
• Vulnerable moments: Coping with family loss and major life changes while maintaining confidence and grace
• The true power and sisterhood found in the pageant world and why it’s never too late to form lifelong bonds
• Exclusive: Behind-the-scenes at Mrs. America in Las Vegas—from dance routines to the unique reality of pageant life
• Tracy’s tips for trying something new—even when you feel self-doubt or “imposter syndrome” creeps in

Top Quotes:

• “You just have to try. That’s our word. If you can just try, get your foot out the door, then see what happens.”
• “Challenging yourself is the key to happiness. It’s the key to growth. It’s the key to building that inner wisdom, the inner beauty.”
• “Even the day-to-day…there’s so many mini-challenges within this role that push me, that I never thought about before I accepted it.”

Why You’ll Love This Episode: If you’re hungry for motivation, want to discover how to reinvent yourself at any stage, or need a push to take on your own “big thing” this year, Tracy’s story will light a fire under you. Whether you’re a parent, a dreamer, or someone standing on the edge of a big decision, this episode proves that courage is contagious.

Action Steps:

• Listen to Tracy’s journey and let her “Try” mantra inspire your next bold move
• Explore Tracy’s favorite skincare picks from our sponsor The Organic Skin Co.—get a clean slate for your own fresh start
• Connect with Tracy Heisler Drost on Instagram, Facebook, and follow her evolving journey as a role model, philanthropist, and pageant powerhouse

 

Resources & Links:

• Follow Tracy Heisler Drost on Instagram

 

💞CHECK OUT OUR FAVORITE SKINCARE LINE- THE ORGANIC SKIN CO. The Organic Skin Co

Your skin will thank you for it AND the world will thank you- as they plant a tree with each product bought!

🔥 Are you ready to become the best version of yourself? Tune into Obsessed with Humans on the Verge of Change — the life-changing podcast that explores healing, purpose, empowerment, and bold transformation. Each episode