In this episode of Live as It Matters, I sit down with one of my best friends, photographer, creative, and all-around light-bringer, Billye Breinnesen, the heart behind Billye Donya Photography. Billye naturally thrives behind the camera, pouring her talent into capturing raw, meaningful moments for others. But today, I coaxed her in front of the mic and right outside her comfort zone and straight into my world of content, conversation, and connection. What We Dive Into: Billye’s journey from hobby photographer to building her own brand, Billye Donya Photography. How creativity and courage collide—and what it looks like to stretch yourself in ways that feel both risky and right. The power of friendship in pushing us toward growth, even when it’s uncomfortable. What happens when two different creative worlds meet—hers behind the lens, mine in content and storytelling. Why showing up matters, even when you’re unsure, unprepared, or a little terrified. Why This Episode Matters: This conversation is about more than photography. It’s about saying yes to the moments that nudge us toward growth. It’s about letting the people who love us push us in the best possible ways. And it’s about embracing the awkward, the hilarious, and the beautifully vulnerable parts of trying something new (and sometimes documenting it!)

Billye Breinnesen

Email: billyedonya@billyedonya.com

Website:  https://www.billyedonya.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/billyedonyaphotography/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BillyeDonyaPhotography

Elissa Kalver 

Email: elissa@wegotthis.org

Website: elissakalver.com

Instagram: @elissakalver

Facebook: Elissa Kalver

TikTok: @elissakalver

Linkedin: Elissa Kalver

Book: We Got This: How I Learned to Thrive with Terminal Cancer 

Where storytelling meets spontaneity. No script. No rules. Just raw, honest, and often ridiculous conversations about life, loss, healing, and hope. These are the messy, magical moments that make life worth showing up for, even when it’s hard. Elissa sits down with friends, specialists, fellow cancer thrivers, and sometimes whoever happens to wander in on recording day. With no script, expect raw laughter, real tears, and unexpectedly deep conversations. Every episode is a reminder that authenticity is messy, beautiful, and worth sharing. And remember to Live Like It Matters

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