Meet Melissa Bauknight | Business Alignment Coach and CEO of Nova

We had the good fortune of connecting with Melissa Bauknight and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Melissa, is your business focused on helping the community? If so, how?

At The Nova, the new membership community from The Ripple Connection launching September 2023, our business is deeply committed to making a positive impact on both our local communities and the world. We believe that by empowering conscious professional women to thrive in their lives and businesses, we are contributing to a larger ripple effect of positive change.We will eventually have local chapters in every US state, a global virtual presence and international retreats.

We are more than a community, we are a transformative movement we call the Novalution. Emboldened by our collective rise, the women of Nova revolutionize the global narrative, transcending limitations and redefining our roles. Through unwavering self-worth, empowerment, and equality, we challenge norms, inspiring a new generation to embrace their worthiness, break free from constraints, and prioritize their needs. Our actions shatter stereotypes, showcasing women’s capabilities and demanding recognition, respect, and celebration. This radical shift dismantles patriarchal structures, fostering
inclusivity, and propelling women to thrive, lead, and leave an indelible mark on society.

Symbolically, the name “Nova” represents transformation, illumination, and a fresh start. It signifies the emergence of something new, vibrant, and powerful. In the context of a community for conscious professional women rewriting the narrative for holistic success, “Nova” represents the women’s collective journey of personal growth, empowerment, and the pursuit of their authentic path to success. It symbolizes their ability to shine brightly, radiating their unique talents, values, and visions, while challenging societal norms and embracing a holistic approach to success. Just like a nova star that emits an extraordinary burst of light and energy, the women in this community aim to create a positive
impact, inspire change, and illuminate a new path forward for themselves and others.

Through our strategic partnerships, programs and events, we support women in aligning their work with their values, passions, and purpose. By helping them create businesses and careers that are not only financially successful but also fulfilling and impactful, we are fostering a community of empowered women who come together to make a difference in their own lives and the lives of those around them.

Additionally, Nova is dedicated to social and environmental responsibility. We actively seek partnerships and collaborations with organizations and initiatives that align with our values and mission. We believe in using our platform to raise awareness about important causes, advocate for social justice, and contribute to sustainable practices.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?

The community we are launching, The Nova, is the highest expression of my passion for empowering conscious professional women to create lives and businesses aligned with their truest selves. What sets Nova apart is our holistic audacious approach, integrating personal, spiritual, and professional development, with our unwavering commitment to supporting women in thriving in all areas of their lives.

What I want the world to know about the next version of The Ripple Connection, The Nova, is that we are more than just a business. We are a movement (a Novalution), a community, and a catalyst for personal and societal transformation. We are here to support women in rising together, challenging norms, shattering stereotypes, and demanding recognition, respect, and celebration, as they embrace their worthiness, break free from constraints, and leave an indelible mark on society, fostering inclusivity and propelling women to thrive and lead. Our brand and story are rooted in empowerment, growth, and creating a better future for all.

Ultimately, Nova is about empowering women to step into their full potential, embrace their unique gifts, and create lives of purpose, fulfillment, and joy. It is my deepest desire to see women thriving in all aspects of their lives, and I am dedicated to making that vision a reality through the launch of this chapter-based global community.

I am most proud of the transformative impact The Ripple Connection has had on the lives of the women we serve. Witnessing their growth, confidence, and success is incredibly rewarding and fuels my dedication to this work. I am also excited about the powerful community we have cultivated, where women can connect, support each other, and elevate together.
Getting to where I am today was not easy and it’s taken an immense amount of community support and courage in the face of my fears. However, I have learned to show up anyway, believe in myself above all else, and cultivate a spiritual practice and community to take care of the rest. I am resilient AF, seeking LOTS of support from mentors, masterminds, and like-hearted communities, and staying true to my vision and purpose.

I’ve learned the importance of embracing vulnerability and authenticity, as they are the gateways to true connection and growth. I’ve learned the power of self-belief, nervous system regulation, and mindset in overcoming obstacles and achieving success. And I’ve learned that success is not solely defined by external achievements, but by the alignment of one’s actions with their values and purpose.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend was visiting Golden, Colorado for a week, I would make sure to show them the best of what this vibrant city has to offer. Here’s a suggested itinerary for an unforgettable time:

Day 1: Golden

Start the day with a delicious breakfast and coffee at Windy Saddle Safe.
Take a scenic hike at Clear Creek Canyon Park.
For lunch, enjoy a beautiful outdoor lunch at The Eddy Taproom and Hotel.
Explore the shops and boutiques in downtown Golden and go tubing down Clear Creek
Dinner and drinks at Golden Mill

Day 2: Boulder

Head to Boulder, a vibrant city just a short drive from Golden.
Start the day with a long hike at Chautauqua Park, where you can enjoy stunning views of the Flatirons.
For lunch, try the farm-to-table cuisine at The Kitchen or grab a quick bite at the Pearl Street Mall.
Spend the afternoon exploring the unique shops and galleries on Pearl Street Mall. and hang out by Boulder Creek for some connected conversation
Dinner at one of Boulder’s acclaimed restaurants, such as Frasca Food and Wine or Salt.

Day 3: Golden, Morrison, and Denver

Begin the day with 9 Holes of Golf at Rolling Hills or Fossil Trace.
For lunch, head to Morrison for a picnic lunch at Red Rocks and an easy hike on the Trading Post Trail

In the evening, head to Denver for a night out in the city.
Dinner at one of Denver’s trendy eateries in the LoDo (Lower Downtown) neighborhood, like Root Down or Union Station.
Explore the live music scene in Denver or Red Rocks by going to a show at the Mission Ballroom, Botanic Gardens, or Red Rocks.

Day 4: Denver

Spend the day exploring the attractions and cultural sites in Denver.
Go for an eBike ride along the Platte River Trail
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the trendy eateries in the RiNo (River North) Art District.
Explore the historic Larimer Square for shopping and dining.
Take a stroll through the Denver Botanic Gardens for a peaceful and beautiful experience.
Then head to Wash Park for dinner at Perdida, Izakaya Den, or Homegrown Tap & Dough

Day 5:
Hike from my house over South Table Mountain into downtown Golden
Take a free hayride from Golden Mill to the farmers market for coffee and breakfast along the creek and roaming the market.
Then take a nap and go to an afternoon music festival at New Terrain Brewery
Host a BBQ at my house

Throughout the week, we would make sure to connect with my local friends, including my husband and son, and leave space for spontaneity as there’s SO MUCH to see and do around Golden.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Absolutely! I would like to dedicate my shoutout to my incredible husband, who has been my rock and supporter throughout this journey, even when what I was setting out to accomplish seemed insane. His love, encouragement, and belief in me have been instrumental in my personal and professional growth. I am truly grateful for his presence in my life.

I would also like to give a special shoutout to the members of Sarah Jenks Council, the high-level sacred business mastermind I am currently a part of. This amazing group of like-hearted individuals has been an invaluable source of inspiration, guidance, and accountability. Their collective wisdom, support, and shared experiences have played a significant role in my own growth and the success of getting the highest expression of my work out into the world in the form of Nova. I am grateful to be surrounded by such powerful, sacred, and supportive women.

It truly takes a village to achieve success, and I am honored to have such wonderful individuals and communities who have played a part in my story. I believe in the power of collaboration and acknowledging the contributions of others, and I am grateful for the support and guidance I have received along the way.

Website: www.therippleconnection.com

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-bauknight-trc

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/therippleconnection

Other: https://www.innerrebelpodcast.com/ www.wearethenova.com (coming soon) www.novaconsciouscollective.com (coming soon)

Image Credits
Jennifer MacNiven Jordan Quinn