Host: Cristan Engelke
Guest: Denise Silas
VIDEO
PRESENTING SPONSORS:
Unstoppable Media – www.unstoppablegmr.com
EPISODE SPONSOR:
Pure Focus Media – https://www.purefocus.media/
DESCRIPTION
Welcome to another powerful episode of Southaven Business Beat, the podcast that celebrates entrepreneurship, personal growth, and the power of community! Today’s episode is an absolute must-watch for women on a mission, aspiring leaders, and anyone looking to step boldly into their purpose. Your host Cristan sits down with the dynamic and inspiring Denise Silas, founder of Empowered by DS and longtime Mary Kay leader, whose mission is to equip women to become the best version of themselves—spiritually, emotionally, and professionally.
In this conversation, Denise shares her deeply personal journey from being an introverted accountant with a fear of public speaking to becoming a bold, empowering force for women in the Mid-South and beyond. With 31 years of experience in Mary Kay and a passion for helping women embrace their God-given gifts, Denise is now building a legacy through Empowered by DeeZee—a movement of empowerment breakfasts, Diva Dinner & Dialog events, coaching programs, empowerment boxes, and now, a women’s retreat designed to renew and reset.
Denise doesn’t just talk the talk—she walks it. From leading with faith to pouring into others from her overflow, this episode is rich with real-life wisdom, actionable advice, and heartfelt encouragement. Whether you’re a woman looking for your next chapter, an entrepreneur seeking connection, or someone feeling stuck and wondering “what’s next?”, this conversation will inspire you to get up, get focused, and get moving.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
How Denise’s journey began in Mary Kay—and how it transformed her confidence and leadership.
The divine whisper that nudged her to step beyond the “pink bubble” and launch a movement.
Why vision boards and visual reminders are crucial to achieving goals.
The birth of Empowered by DS and its evolution from a single breakfast into a movement.
How the Empowerment Boxes are helping women nationwide refocus on their purpose.
Why women must pour into themselves first—and how to do it with intention.
The power of saying “yes” to God’s bigger plan, even when you don’t have all the details.
Denise’s top 3 keys to getting from where you are to where you want to be.
How relationships and connections through the Southaven Chamber of Commerce helped fuel Denise’s mission and her family’s opportunities.
“Drink as you pour.” That phrase sums up Denise’s approach to life and leadership. She reminds us that in order to serve, love, and empower others, we have to first allow ourselves to be filled. Her empowerment events aren’t just networking meetups—they’re transformational experiences filled with joy, faith, and community. And with the upcoming Empowerment Retreat, the movement is only growing stronger.
As Cristan beautifully puts it, Denise has created more than a brand—she’s created a catalyst for change in the lives of countless women.
We want to hear from you!
Have you ever attended an Empowerment Breakfast or received an Empowerment Box?
What’s one thing YOU can do in this current season to pour into yourself?
Drop a comment below!
CHAPTERS
- Welcome to Southaven Business Beat (00:00 – 00:45)
- Introducing Denise Silas & Empowered by DS (00:45 – 01:11)
- Denise’s Start in Mary Kay & Overcoming Fear (01:11 – 02:49)
- The Spark That Led to Empowered by DeeZee (02:49 – 04:07)
- From Empowerment Breakfast to a Full Movement (04:07 – 05:50)
- How Empowerment Events Changed Lives (05:50 – 07:38)
- Empowerment Boxes: Self-Care in a Package (07:38 – 09:35)
- You Can’t Pour From an Empty Cup (09:35 – 11:15)
- Growth Through Faith & Obedience (11:15 – 14:06)
- What’s Next: Empowerment Retreat Announcement (14:06 – 17:09)
- Common Struggles as a Coach & Building Trust (17:09 – 20:59)
- Top 3 Keys to Taking Your Next Step (20:59 – 24:11)
- How the Southaven Chamber Helped Her Journey (24:11 – 27:34)
- Final Words of Encouragement & Invitation (27:34 – 28:56)
About Our Guest – Denise Silas
Denise Silas is a faith-driven entrepreneur, empowerment coach, and founder of Empowered by DS. With over three decades of experience in Mary Kay and a heart for uplifting women, Denise has created a platform that challenges women to dream again, rediscover their purpose, and thrive unapologetically. From vision boards to self-care retreats, Denise is equipping women to live intentionally in every season.
About the Show
Brought to you by the Southaven Chamber Foundation, Southaven Business Beat is where we shine a light on local business leaders, innovators, and community builders across the Mid-South. We’re here to offer insights, inspiration, and the inside scoop on what’s fueling our region’s growth. Subscribe now and be part of our mission to grow together!
SPONSOR LIST
https://www.wisdomintegrators.com – Wisdom Integrators
https://thefollowapp.co/ – The Follow App
https://www.purefocus.media/ – Pure Focus Media
https://www.southavenchamber.com/ – Southaven Chamber of Commerce
YOUTUBE URL
