WIL Talk (Women in Leadership Talk)

Is your skincare routine healing your skin or harming your health?In this deeply informative episode of the WIL Talk Podcast, host Vicki Bradley chats with Julia Faller, founder of Benedetta, to unpack what's really in your skincare products and why natural, plant-based, and holistic solutions matter more than everKey Takeaways:Hormones, nutrition, and health all affect your skin.Understanding product ingredients is essential for skin wellness.Trust in skincare starts with education, not marketing.Want to deepen your leadership journey?You'll find two FREE mini-courses designed to elevate your leadership skills and a powerful leadership quiz to help you understand how you show up in the world—personally and professionally. Explore now: www.wilempowered.com, www.wilempowered.com/free-mini-course/ 

What if your brand had a personality, and it was based on your feminine power? In this episode of the WIL Talk Podcast, host Vicki Bradley sits down with brand strategist and author Jane McCarthy to explore how archetypes, creativity, and feminine energy can shape powerful branding and authentic leadership.Key Takeaways:Feminine energy and collaboration drive modern leadership.You don't need a big budget to build a big brand.Personal authenticity attracts the right people to your work.Want to deepen your leadership journey?You'll find two FREE mini-courses designed to elevate your leadership skills and a powerful leadership quiz to help you understand how you show up in the world—personally and professionally. Explore now: www.wilempowered.com

What if one small mindset shift could change everything?In this uplifting episode of the WIL Talk Podcast, host Vicki Bradley speaks with Lori Rogers, president and co-founder of Rogers Marketing, about how daily positive activity and a shift in mindset helped her navigate personal and professional challenges and how you can do the same.Key Takeaways:Positivity isn't about ignoring reality, it's about choosing how you respond.Small daily practices lead to big mental shifts.Mindset matters in leadership, performance, and personal growth.Want to deepen your leadership journey?You'll find two FREE mini-courses designed to elevate your leadership skills and a powerful leadership quiz to help you understand how you show up in the world—personally and professionally. Explore now: www.wilempowered.com

What if retirement isn't the end—but the beginning of your next purpose?In this eye-opening episode of the WIL Talk Podcast, host Vicki Bradley sits down with Teresa Amabile, Harvard researcher and expert on the psychology of retirement, to talk about the emotional side of leaving a career and how to do it with clarity, confidence, and joy.From identity loss to the fear of losing purpose, Teresa shares her “Four A's” framework—Alignment, Awareness, Agency, and Adaptability to help women rethink what retirement really means and design a life they love on the other side of work.Key Takeaways:Retirement is more than financial it's emotional and personal.Identity, structure, and purpose are often the biggest transitions.The Four A's can help create a fulfilling, empowered post-career life.Want to deepen your leadership journey?You'll find two FREE mini-courses designed to elevate your leadership skills and a powerful leadership quiz to help you understand how you show up in the world—personally and professionally. Explore now: www.wilempowered.com

What if the real key to success isn't having all the answers—but asking better questions? In this thought-provoking episode of the WIL Talk Podcast, host Vicki Bradley sits down with Vandana Puranik—TEDx speaker, idea architect, and cancer survivor to explore how curiosity, counterintuitive thinking, and intellectual humility can unlock powerful leadership and personal growth.Key Takeaways:Curiosity isn't a trait, it's a strategy.Solving the wrong problem wastes your best energy.Healing, growth, and leadership often come from challengeWant to deepen your leadership journey?You'll find two FREE mini-courses designed to elevate your leadership skills and a powerful leadership quiz to help you understand how you show up in the world—personally and professionally. Explore now: www.wilempowered.com

Ever been told you don't belong? What if you took off anyway?In this fearless episode of the WIL Talk Podcast, host Vicki Bradley sits down with aviation trailblazer Lola Reid Allin to talk about breaking barriers, navigating gender dynamics, and flying toward dreams despite the odds. From overcoming stereotypes to empowering future generations of women in aviation and STEM, Lola's story is testament to courage, resilience, and adventure.Key Takeaways:Courage and community are critical in male-dominated industries.Exposure to diverse experiences fuels personal and professional growth.You have every right to claim your space—even when others say you don't.Want to deepen your leadership journey?You'll find two FREE mini-courses designed to elevate your leadership skills and a powerful leadership quiz to help you understand how you show up in the world—personally and professionally. Explore now: www.wilempowered.com

In this empowering episode of the WIL Talk Podcast, host Vicki Bradley sits down with Maria Doughty, President & CEO of The Chicago Network, to talk about gender equity, leadership growth, and the power of community. From embracing failure to navigating career transitions with confidence, Maria shares real, actionable advice for women who are ready to lead boldly.Key Takeaways:Use your voice—it's your most powerful leadership tool.Embrace failure—it's not weakness, it's growth.Celebrate your wins, track your achievements, and advocate for YOU.Want to deepen your leadership journey?You'll find two FREE mini-courses designed to elevate your leadership skills and a powerful leadership quiz to help you understand how you show up in the world—personally and professionally.Explore now: www.wilempowered.com

Have you ever spotted a gap in the market and thought, “Should I go for it?”In this inspiring episode of the WIL Talk Podcast, host Vicki Bradley chats with Jill Biren, co-founder of JB Skrub, a skincare brand designed specifically for tween and teen boys. Jill shares her journey from media executive to purpose-driven entrepreneur, revealing the challenges, lessons, and victories that came with launching a product in a completely untapped market.Key Takeaways:Creating what's missing can lead to a powerful impact.Listening to your market is your greatest growth tool.Support networks and resilience fuel entrepreneurial success.Special Offer!Jill is offering our listeners 20% off your first JB Skrub purchase with code WILTALK20 — valid through April 30, 2025!Want to deepen your leadership journey?You'll find two FREE mini-courses designed to elevate your leadership skills and a powerful leadership quiz to help you understand how you show up in the world—personally and professionally.Explore now: www.wilempowered.com

Are you chasing success, but neglecting your inner peace? In this soul-nourishing episode of the WIL Talk Podcast, host Vicki Bradley sits down with Sukaiyna Gokal, founder of Garden of Ayden, to explore the power of self-discovery, mental well-being, and trusting the universe's plan.Key Topics:✔ Self-reflection is a catalyst for growth and grace.✔ Emotional intelligence is essential to leadership.✔ True luxury is nurturing your inner world.Don't miss Sukaiyna's upcoming book, The Human Touch, launching April 9, 2025—a transformative guide to inner peace and global unity through gentle self-enquiry and deep reflection.Want to deepen your leadership journey?You'll find two FREE mini-courses designed to elevate your leadership skills and a powerful leadership quiz to help you understand how you show up in the world—personally and professionally.Explore now: www.wilempowered.com

What if your comfort is costing someone else their voice?In this eye-opening episode of the WIL Talk Podcast, host Vicki Bradley sits down with Gabriela Alcalde, CEO of the Sewall Foundation and author of What Your Comfort Cost Us. Together, they explore the hidden cost of white comfort in the workplace, the shared challenges faced by women of colour, and how empathy, curiosity, and storytelling can drive real change in leadership and corporate culture.Key Takeaways:✔ Workplace culture reflects what leadership values—it's never neutral.✔ Curiosity and empathy are essential to understanding lived experiences.✔ Productive discomfort creates space for learning and transformation.Want to know how you show up as a leader? Take our FREE Leadership Quiz for insights and exclusive goodies!

In this powerful episode of the Women in Leadership Talk Podcast, host Vicki Bradley sits down with Natalie Cramp, partner at JMAN Group and chair of Women's Health at Women in Data, to unpack the transformative role of data and AI in shaping the future of women's health.Natalie shares her journey from problem-solver to data advocate, revealing how data gaps, biases, and organizational resistance are holding back critical progress in healthcare, especially for women. 

Can remote work and AI transform the future of business? In this episode of the Women in Leadership Talk Podcast, host Vicki Bradley sits down with Brianna Carney, co-founder of Crew Bloom and Betty AI, to explore the power of global recruitment, AI-driven innovation, and the evolving landscape of leadership in remote work.Key Takeaways for Women in Business & Leadership:✔ Happy employees = better results—a strong workplace culture is key.✔ Bootstrapping a business teaches invaluable lessons without investor pressure.✔ Diversity in recruitment leads to stronger, more successful businesses.✔ Testing your ideas in the market is essential for entrepreneurial successWant to know how you show up as a leader? Take our FREE Leadership Quiz for insights and exclusive goodies!

What if your passion could fuel a thriving business? In this episode of WIL Talk Podcast, host Vicki Bradley sits down with Kimmy K Powell, entrepreneur, author, and investor, to discuss how she built Woodhouse Spa, mastered marketing strategies, and turned purpose into profit.Key Takeaways:✔ Align your business with your passion for long-term success.✔ Change is an opportunity, embrace it and pivot when needed.✔ Angel investing isn't just for the wealthy, start small, think big.Want to elevate your leadership skills? Visit www.wilempowered.com and take our FREE Leadership Quiz for insights and exclusive resources!

In this empowering episode of the Women in Leadership Talk podcast, host Vicki Bradley sits down with Carolyn Pritchard & Lorie Spence, co-founders of Bridge Medical Communications. Together, they unveil the game-changing ways they're transforming healthcare communications to improve patient care and empower women's health.What You'll Learn:✅ The biggest challenges women face in healthcare & leadership✅ How effective communication can save lives ✅ The power of mentorship and why women must lift each other up✅ The mission behind the Women's Health Summit – and why you need to know about it!If you'd like to join Carolyn and Lorie at the 1st Annual Women's Health Summit on March 1, 2025, at TIFF Lightbox, Toronto, this is your chance! The event will bring together top medical experts to tackle key issues in women's health, from menopause to cardiovascular care. Don't miss it!

In this episode of the Women in Leadership Talk podcast, Vicki Bradley sits down with Danaya Wilson, co-founder and CEO of BetterCertify, to discuss breaking barriers in male-dominated industries, redefining leadership, and the launch of her new book, Change Makers Wanted. Danaya shares her journey, the importance of recognizing caretaking as real work, and how we can create more inclusive workplaces for women.Key Takeaways:✔ More women need to be in leadership roles.✔ Caretaking is an economic task, not a hobby.✔ Work flexibility leads to happier, more productive teams.✔ Leadership isn't about gender—it's about impact.Want to know how you show up as a leader? Take our FREE Leadership Quiz for insights and exclusive goodies!

In this episode of the Women in Leadership Talk podcast, host Vicki Bradley sits down with Angela Gill Nelms, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and motivational speaker. As the CEO of The AGN Group, Angela has built and scaled companies with a focus on global corporate culture, strategic growth, and resilience. Angela opens up about her journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a successful business leader and single mother. She shares how conflict, resilience, and authenticity have shaped her leadership style and career in healthcare technology.Key Takeaways:1. Conflict isn't a setback—it's a tool for growth and stronger teams2. Authenticity and self-belief are key to leadership success3. Balancing career and motherhood requires resilience and adaptability4. Service and impact should be at the heart of leadership

In this episode of the Women in Leadership Talk podcast, host Vicki Bradley sits down with Karen Goslin, social worker and author of Yellow Paint, to explore the power of vulnerability and self-discovery. Karen shares how personal experiences shaped her career, the inspiration behind her book, and why accountability is key to transformation. She reminds us that while suffering is optional, true growth requires intention and effort.What You'll Learn:1. How vulnerability can be a strength in leadership and life2. The role of core wounds in shaping our behaviors3. Why personal transformation starts with accountability4. Practical strategies to embrace healing and personal growth

From Hollywood to CEO—How Jenna Capozzi Built a Powerhouse Leadership Brand In the latest Women in Leadership Talk podcast, host Vicki Bradley sits down with Jenna Capozzi—founder of ELEV8PWR, former Hollywood producer, and C-level executive—who is now on a mission to mentor and elevate the next generation of leaders.Jenna shares her inspiring career transition, the importance of embracing change, and how mindset, communication, and community support play a vital role in leadership and personal growth.What You'll Learn:1. How flexibility in your career path can open new opportunities2. Why self-confidence and mentorship are crucial for women in leadership3. The role of social media and networking in building a strong personal brand4. How taking action without overthinking can lead to greater success

In this episode of the Women in Leadership Talk podcast, Vicki Bradley sits down with Lesle Lane, a third-generation photographer and founder of Studio 13. Lesle shares her inspiring journey from competitive ice skating to transforming her family's photography business.

In this episode of the Women in Leadership Talk podcast, host Vicki Bradley sits down with Pam Buchanan, founder of Quantum Sense, to explore the transformative power of soul health and its role in leadership and innovation.Pam shares her inspiring journey from a successful career in finance and technology to becoming a pioneer in the field of soul health. She discusses the importance of commitment, belief in oneself, and the role of a supportive environment in driving innovation and personal growth. Pam's unique approach highlights how soul health bridges the gap between physical and mental well-being, offering actionable steps for individuals and organizations to thrive.This insightful conversation touches on leadership lessons, self-optimization, and how small shifts in mindset and environment can lead to remarkable outcomes. Pam's expertise offers a fresh perspective for leaders looking to foster creativity, resilience, and mindfulness in their teams.Curious about how your leadership style shapes your impact? Visit www.wilempowered.com/quiz/ to take our free leadership quiz. Gain valuable insights into your approach and discover strategies to elevate your leadership journey!Perfect for: Corporate leaders, entrepreneurs, HR professionals, and anyone interested in innovation, mindfulness, and personal growth.Don't miss this empowering episode—share it with anyone seeking to redefine success and well-being in their personal and professional lives!

In this episode of the Women in Leadership Talk podcast, host Vicki Bradley is joined by Alix Edmiston, President of AE Public Relations and Amazon #1 bestselling author of The Immortal Secret, for an engaging conversation about storytelling, resilience, and the pursuit of truth.Alix shares her journey from corporate communications to becoming a celebrated author. She dives into the themes of her novel, including love, redemption, and the influence of gothic fiction on her storytelling style. Together, Vicki and Alix discuss the challenges of creative writing, the courage it takes to follow one's dreams, and how women can support each other in leadership and personal growth.This episode highlights the transformative power of storytelling and the importance of perseverance in achieving your goals. Alix's experiences encourage listeners to embrace their aspirations, silence self-doubt, and find joy in creative expression.Want to learn more about your leadership style? Visit WILempowered.com and take our free leadership quiz. Gain valuable insights into how you show up as a leader and discover ways to elevate your impact.Perfect for: Writers, leaders, and professionals seeking inspiration to pursue their dreams and embrace resilience in their journeys.Don't miss this inspiring episode—share it with someone who's ready to create their own impactful story!

In this episode of the Women in Leadership Talk podcast, host Vicki Bradley is joined by Beth Stallwood, coach, author, and founder of Create Work Joy, for an insightful conversation about transforming our relationship with work and embracing joy in our professional lives.Beth draws from her book, Work Joy: A Toolkit for Better Working Life, to share strategies for cultivating a fulfilling and joyful work experience. She emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility, shifting outdated narratives, and intentionally seeking micro moments of joy throughout the workday. Together, Vicki and Beth explore how mindset shifts and practical tools can help individuals navigate the complexities of modern work-life dynamics.This discussion challenges the myth of work-life balance, highlighting instead how work can integrate seamlessly into our lives when approached with intentionality. Beth's advice empowers listeners to take ownership of their work experiences and create a more meaningful, joyful career path.Want to learn more? Visit WILempowered.com to access two free video series: one on overcoming fear and another on building great habits. Start your journey today!Perfect for: Professionals seeking personal growth, leaders aiming to improve workplace culture, and anyone ready to discover joy at work.Tune in to this episode and share it with someone who's ready to transform their work experience!

In this episode of the Women in Leadership Talk podcast, host Vicki Bradley sits down with Shanarra Goode, retail professional and founder of The Good Guide, for an insightful conversation about career growth, connection, and empowerment. Together, they explore the unique challenges women encounter on the leadership journey, discussing everything from the loneliness that often accompanies career advancement to the importance of self-trust and confidently taking up space in professional settings.Shanarra shares her experiences on the value of vulnerability and authenticity in building meaningful relationships. Networking, she emphasizes, is about creating genuine connections that can shape one's career and personal growth. They also explore how cultural immersion enhances relationships and why leaving a legacy through mentorship and connection is essential for lasting impact.If this episode resonates with you, we invite you to explore our on-demand networking course on the Women in Leadership Empowered website. Our course is designed to help you find your authentic approach to building connections in professional spaces. https://www.wilempowered.com/services/ Perfect for: Women leaders, professionals, and anyone seeking to build authentic connections, embrace vulnerability, and leave a lasting impact in their careers.Don't miss this engaging episode—share it with those ready to empower themselves, embrace authenticity, and make a lasting impact through purpose-driven leadership! 

In this episode of the Women in Leadership Talk podcast, host Vicki Bradley sits down with Lida Citroën, an expert in personal branding and reputation management, to discuss the power of authenticity in leadership and the evolving standards of executive presence.Lida delves into her journey in personal branding and reveals how self-awareness and understanding one's purpose can shape influence and impact. She emphasizes that today's influence isn't solely rooted in authority but in genuine connection and realness. Together, Vicki and Lida explore practical steps to elevate your presence, from defining your brand's core values to actively contributing in professional settings.This conversation provides actionable insights for those looking to build an authentic and impactful personal brand. Lida's advice encourages listeners to step confidently into their true selves while enhancing their professional reputation and leadership presence.Ready to turn fear into fuel? Visit the WIL Empowered website to access a free mini-series designed to help you transform fear from a roadblock into a catalyst for growth. This series also dives into the power of habits and offers practical tools for personal development! https://www.wilempowered.com/free-mini-course/"Perfect for: Leaders, professionals, and anyone looking to establish an authentic, influential presence in their careers.Don't miss this engaging episode—share it with those ready to make a lasting impact through authenticity and purpose-driven influence!

In this episode of the Women in Leadership Talk podcast, host Vicki Bradley sits down with Mareya Ibrahim, a holistic nutritionist and brain health coach, to explore the transformative power of nutrition, gut health, and lifestyle choices in women's well-being.Chef Mareya shares her journey, from overcoming struggles with food and eating disorders to finding her calling in holistic health. She opens up about the essential connection between gut health and brain function, especially for women navigating dietary shifts during menopause. Through her expertise, Chef Mareya emphasizes the importance of informed eating, understanding food intolerances, and adopting changes that support health and vitality as we age.This conversation highlights valuable insights into the brain-gut connection, the role of exercise, and the empowering effects of embracing our unique nutritional needs. Chef Mareya reminds us that taking control of our health isn't just a goal—it's a lifelong journey.Take Action: Ready to elevate your wellness journey? Visit Chef Mareya's website, www.chefmareya.com, for holistic nutrition insights and empowering resources.Perfect for: Women interested in holistic health, wellness practitioners, and anyone ready to embrace a more informed approach to nutrition and personal growth.Don't miss this impactful conversation—share it with those ready to take charge of their health and wellness journey!

In this episode of the Women in Leadership Talk podcast, host Vicki Bradley sits down with Aimee Christian, a professional in the biopharmaceutical industry who has recently transitioned into political activism. Aimee shares her remarkable journey, from facing 21 rejections from medical schools to pivoting towards a PhD and eventually finding her true calling in corporate communications and community engagement.Aimee opens up about the importance of resilience, embracing life's unexpected twists, and how rejection can ultimately guide us toward better opportunities. She discusses how saying "yes" to new challenges opened doors she hadn't imagined and why community representation is crucial for future generations. This inspiring conversation touches on leadership lessons, overcoming setbacks, and how learning to pause and reflect can lead to lasting personal growth.Tune in to hear Aimee's insights on resilience, community engagement, and her journey from biopharmaceuticals to political activism.We're also thrilled to celebrate Aimee's nomination to the Pharmavoice100, recognizing her extraordinary contributions to the life sciences sector and her commitment to empowering others through mentorship and leadership.Take Action: If you're curious to find out what your leadership style says about you, please visit our website at www.wilempowered.com/quiz/ and take our free leadership quiz. You'll discover helpful tips to become a better leader along the way!Perfect for: Aspiring leaders, educators, and mentors interested in resilience, community engagement, and personal growth.Don't miss this inspiring conversation—share it with those who are ready to embrace new opportunities and make an impact!

In this episode of the Women in Leadership Talk podcast, host Vicki Bradley sits down with Illana Raia, a former corporate lawyer turned entrepreneur and founder of Être Girls. Illana shares her journey from the legal world to launching a groundbreaking organization that helps young women gain confidence and envision their futures by connecting them with female role models from leading companies like Spotify, the United Nations, and NASDAQ.Illana explains how Être, meaning "to be" in French, encourages girls as young as 10 to ask, "Who do I want to be?" rather than "What do I want to be?" Through mentoring, hands-on experiences, and inspirational conversations with industry leaders, Être provides girls with opportunities to engage with women from all fields, giving them the confidence to see themselves in those roles.This conversation covers the importance of mentorship, the power of micro-mentorship moments, and how building confidence in girls at a young age can have a lifelong impact. Illana and Vicki also discuss the systemic barriers that young women face, the importance of representation in leadership, and how Illana's platform is helping to level the playing field by creating a space for girls to raise their voices.Tune in to hear how Être is shaping the future of young women across the globe and discover how you can get the girls in your life involved in this movement for change!Take Action: Visit etregirls.com to learn more about Être and how to get involved.Perfect for: Parents of young girls, educators, mentors, and anyone passionate about female empowerment and leadership.Don't miss this inspiring episode—share it with the young women in your life today!

In this episode of the Women in Leadership Talk podcast, Dr. Hannah Chan, COO of Skinopathy, dives into the intersection of AI and healthcare, particularly in dermatology. She shares how Skinopathy uses AI to help patients better understand skin conditions and streamline access to care by triaging cases more efficiently. Dr. Chan emphasizes the importance of maintaining the human element in healthcare while leveraging AI to reduce administrative burdens and improve diagnostics. She also touches on the challenges of AI, such as data quality and ensuring ethical use. Dr. Chan's vision for AI is a more equitable healthcare system, with expanded access and improved treatments worldwide. Don't miss this insightful discussion about the future of AI in medicine! 

In the latest episode of the Women in Leadership Talk podcast, host Vicki welcomes diversity and inclusion strategist Sara Taylor to discuss the critical role of cultural competence in today's workplace. Sara, a nationally recognized speaker and bestselling author, delves into her 35-year journey in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), sharing insights from her latest book, Thinking at the Speed of Bias.Listeners will learn about the unconscious filters that shape our thoughts and behaviours, and how these filters impact communication, decision-making, and the perpetuation of bias within organizations. Sarah highlights the importance of self-awareness in recognizing these biases and offers practical strategies for leaders and teams to create more inclusive and effective environments.Whether you're a leader seeking to enhance your organization's DEI efforts or an individual committed to personal growth, this episode is packed with actionable insights that can transform your approach to diversity and inclusion. Tune in to explore how you can start challenging your unconscious biases and fostering a more equitable workplace.Find the episode on your favorite podcast platform and don't forget to check out Sarah's book, Thinking at the Speed of Bias, available wherever you buy your books.

In this episode of the Women in Leadership Talk podcast, host Vicki Bradley is joined by Nancy Ho, a distinguished life strategist from Singapore with over 26 years of experience. Nancy, affectionately known as "Happy Nancy," delves into her journey of early success, a life-changing health scare, and her profound insights on the "professional paradox." The conversation covers how success and fulfillment can coexist, the importance of identifying core values, and the significance of understanding one's true "why" in life.Nancy challenges the common notion of passion, urging listeners to focus on what they are willing to do long-term, rather than simply seeking activities that bring temporary joy. She also highlights the importance of authenticity, addressing personal challenges head-on, and creating a life that aligns with one's core values.Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own lives, to stop following societal expectations, and to craft a meaningful life driven by purpose. The episode is packed with wisdom on leadership, personal development, and living a fulfilling life. Don't miss this inspiring conversation that could very well be the wake-up call you need to start living more authentically.Tune in to this episode for practical advice and heartfelt insights that could change the way you approach both your professional and personal life.

How do you get more done by doing less? Join us for a conversation with Amber McCue as she shares her best on how to do just that. Amber has a background in corporate consulting and studied at John Hopkins Organization Development MBA. Putting all things “How to Clone Yourself” to work, she grew her first business from a side hustle to a multi-million dollar company and operated in 26 US cities. During our conversation dive into how after 15 years she shifted her career to create space to have a family and begin this journey of change and evolution. She worked on how to work smart and not hard as she built her businesses and her family. We dive into some of the challenges that women face especially as it pertains to the “invisible workload”, we just do it and make sure things run as they should but there can be a price if we don't leverage our strengths. Amber shares how she uses her key strengths of achiever and adaptability to help her navigate but also a skill she has developed over time which is coming from a space of optimism. She offers some great examples of how life gets messy and the importance of reminding yourself of your values and checking in to see if you are in alignment with those values. She provides some great tips on how to break down that massive to-do list by either,  doing it, delegating it, or deleting it. Your choice and so important to get to that place that you feel no guilt or shame. Building in margin becomes key to shifting our view on how we work and again she shares many great examples of how to shift the reality. One example is with managing your calendar: What do you have control over? How do you build in the margin, weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annually?Research and educate others about building in the margin. Many resources are available.Those are just a few of the examples she shares. Let us know your thoughts on this episode. You can find Amber on LI, IG, FB or YouTube.If you are ready to unleash your full potential as a leader, join us for our fall cohort. To learn more, visit our website at www.wilempowered.com. This is a wonderful opportunity to enhance your power skills, learn more about your strengths, and how to put them to work.

In this episode of the Women in Leadership Talk podcast, host Vicki Bradley welcomes Orchid Jahanshahi, a seasoned commercial leader in the biopharma and tech sectors. Orchid shares her journey from working in pharma to founding her venture, ThinkrBelle, which focuses on connecting the dots between Canadian health tech and life sciences. She discusses her passion for advancing early-stage companies using AI and tech to improve patient access to healthcare, her role as a connector and networker, and her mentorship within the tech and pharma industries. Orchid also touches on her experience with ageism in tech and her drive to foster Canadian talent while making a global impact.This episode highlights the importance of curiosity, resilience, and creating meaningful connections in leadership and entrepreneurship.Are you ready to move from managing to truly leading?Our 8-week immersive course starting this October, "Mastering the Art of Your Power Skills," is designed to transform solo contributors, emerging leaders, or new leaders into the most effective leaders possible by providing them with the foundations of the necessary power skills to succeed.For more information, please click the following link:https://www.wilempowered.com/unlock-your-full-leadership-potential/

In this episode of the Women in Leadership Talk podcast, Vicki Bradley welcomes Michelle Tran, an inspiring leader in the fintech space, calling in from Oakland, California. Michelle, the founder of NYC Fintech Women—a thriving community of over 12,000 women—shares her insights on the growing intersection of fintech and wealth management.Join Vicki and Michelle as they dive into the importance of financial literacy and the democratization of access through fintech. Michelle discusses how fintech is reshaping the financial landscape by empowering women, providing them with the tools to take control of their wealth, and making complex financial concepts more approachable. From her experiences at BlackRock to her passion for promoting inclusion in the financial system, Michelle offers practical advice on navigating wealth transfer and selecting the right financial advisors.This conversation also highlights the challenges women face in the venture capital space, where only a small percentage of funding goes to female founders. Michelle shares how NYC Fintech Women is working to amplify the voices and achievements of women in fintech, including their annual Inspiring Fintech Females awards at the New York Stock Exchange.Tune in to hear more about how fintech is making a difference and how women can harness these tools to grow their wealth and make informed financial decisions.

We're thrilled to have you with us today, and we have an amazing guest joining us: Jillian Gibbs from Aspen, Colorado!Jillian is the founder of the world's largest advertising production consultancy, APR Consulting. What's fascinating is that she started her journey in the arts, training in opera and musical theatre, and even performing on cruise ships.Jillian's story is one of incredible adaptability and perseverance. From taking a freelance job in advertising to landing a full-time role at Unilever, Jillian quickly rose through the ranks to become a production supervisor by the age of 25. She learned the ins and outs of advertising production and discovered a passion that led her to where she is today.We'll dive into Jillian's unique career path, how she made the leap from the arts to advertising, and the lessons she learned along the way. So, sit back, relax, and let's jump into this inspiring conversation with Jillian Gibbs.

How does one navigate the world with a hidden disability and still thrive in a successful career? Join us as we speak with Monica Dreger, Monica oversees all worldwide research initiatives for Airbnb where she has created a foundation for company growth and inspired a new insights-driven philosophy. She built the team and vision for the first centralized research function for Airbnb and manages diverse sub-teams of Consumer Insights, UX research, Trends & Foresight, and Neuroscience research. She has previously held roles with other iconic brands including Mattel – where she oversaw the Barbie transformation, Unilever and Nickelodeon. Monica learned at a very young age that she had a hearing impairment and could only make out a few words when speaking with others. She shares with us that there are many shades of grey when it comes to a disability and luckily, she was able to get the support she required to have one of the best hearing aids. This helped her to persevere and carry on with her life. She learned to remove the focus from herself and on others and she became an advocate for enabling her to give to others. Eventually learning not to be concerned with what other people thought of her helped her begin to lead with empathy and to never fall to a victim state.She realized that most organizations are not equipped with the infrastructure to support those with a disability much less a hidden disability and that became even tougher after covid with most people working hybrid. Airbnb has worked really hard to create an environment that is diligent in finding the best possible outcomes by trying a variety of things to enhance the experience. Not perfect but a focus on inclusion has helped them to adapt.Monica has dedicated her career to research as she is fascinated with the details and nuances being shared. She started her career as a group therapy leader and her focus has always been on listening which is remarkable considering her hidden disability. Her fascination with irrational thinking and the brain makes her the perfect person to dive deep into the details and facts that present themselves. We gain insight from her into how the brain works and how accelerated everything is today in our attention-deficit society.To wrap up our conversation she shares some of her favourite insights regarding the transformation of the Barbie brand and how other organizations might take a look at how they can become more inclusive, which requires risk, but the payoff may be bigger than you realize.If this episode resonates with you, please do share it with a friend or colleague.Interested in better understanding how you show up as a leader? Visit our website at www.wilempowered.com and take our free leadership quiz or if interested in learning more about the WIL community subscribe to our monthly newsletter.#hiddendisability #disability #womenleaders #empathy #wilempowered #wiltalk #womeninleadershipempowered

We're thrilled to have Karen McMahon with us, a high-conflict divorce strategist and the founder of Journey Beyond Divorce. Karen brings a unique perspective to navigating the tumultuous waters of divorce, focusing on how our behaviours, beliefs, and traumas shape our relationships and can impact the breakup process.Today, we'll dive into Karen's remarkable journey through her own experiences with divorce and her transformative approach to helping others through these challenges. We'll explore the intricacies of high-conflict divorces, the importance of personal healing, and how examining our patterns can lead to profound growth. Whether you're facing divorce or simply curious about the process, Karen's insights will offer invaluable guidance on reclaiming your confidence and finding new possibilities beyond the end of a marriage. So, let's jump in and get started!Visit our website at willempowered .com and you can subscribe to our monthly newsletter. We don't bombard you with lots of information. It's more about what free master classes or networking are on the horizon, but it'll give you a lot of insight into how to be more empowered. 

What are the learnings young people need to understand when they are ready to hit the job market? And what is your money story? Lynn Herrick, COO of Bluecrest joins us again on the WIL Talk podcast to dive into these very important topics. Lynn previously joined us for episode #109 and today we are back to take a deeper into these topics. Lynn by trade is an international lawyer and has been able to use her skills in many different industries and today she is on the mission to find a business to take over and turn it around. Her experiences are incredible and her passion for sharing how to support our younger generations is priceless.Kids need role models and to know they can be whatever they choose. Today we have endless possibilities but there are some foundational skills they must require to better navigate the real world. In our discussion, we discuss energy and what you are putting out – does it match what you want in life? You must pay attention and change it if it's not going the way you want. We raise our kids to believe that if they get good grades, they will be fine and that is not reality. Once you enter the working world they must be prepared. Having a customer service mindset is helpful and what she means by that is going above and beyond, it's not a check off the list, it is immersing yourself into the work and learning, asking for opportunities, having a great attitude and just doing it. Saying “yes” is super important and the willingness to try things. She recommends preparing a 3-5-10 minute elevator pitch with a mindset of “I AM”. She shares some amazing examples of shifting failure to opportunity. When we don't get what we want such as a job, what do we learn from it? How would you present differently next time?  Be aware of your communication. Kids are so used to social media and texting, but older adults might find the language rude, so check yourself regularly and ask someone to criticize you. A few tips she shares are about being able to carry on a conversation with an adult, ask questions, and be curious. What is your money story? Money provides many options so how do you prepare yourself with strong financial acumen? There are many myths about money, and it is our responsibility to educate ourselves on money and know our money philosophy. You can do that by reading books, listening to podcasts, attending conferences, or bank events on wealth management. Do not leave money decisions to your partner. You must know and consciously plan together for the future. She shares a great example about a woman who reached out after our last podcast and the experience they shared talking about money. If you have questions about money reach out to Lynn or me, we are happy to share our own experiences or connect you with someone professionally trained. Curious about what is happening at WIL Empowered? Visit our website at  www.wilempowered.com and subscribe to our monthly newsletter.  #moneytalk #confidence #pitch #emergingleaders #wilempowered #wiltalk 

Welcome to today's episode of "The Power of Discovery," where we delve into the transformative potential of embracing the unknown. Today, we're privileged to sit down with Karen Golden-Biddle, an award-winning researcher whose work shines a light on the oft-overlooked leadership capacity of discovery.Karen's groundbreaking research in organizational ethnography reveals the profound impact of cultivating a practice of discovery within leadership. But what does it mean to be an organizational ethnographer? It's not about observing from afar; it's about immersing oneself in the everyday lives of people within organizations, experiencing their joys, struggles, and challenges firsthand.Through her extensive studies, Karen has unearthed the essence of discovery as a dynamic process, not just an outcome. It's about asking the right questions, challenging beliefs, and embracing surprise and doubt. In a world where organizations often prioritize predictability and efficiency, the power of discovery can be overlooked. But Karen's work illuminates its vital role in driving innovation and lasting change.During our conversation, we delve into the meaning of an organization ethnographer. What it's like to work within verses on a topic or organization. How the art of discovery lies in the process not the actual outcome. How the inventive process is emergent and what it is like to shift as a human being when you focus on the relational outcomes. To learn more about what is happening at WIL Empowered, visit us at www.wilempowered.com and subscribe to our monthly newsletter. #discovery #joyofinquiry #wilempowered #wiltalk #possibility

What is the medicine for chaos? Join us as we speak with Maria Carpenter from South Africa as she shares her story of finding her way and how her personal journey of navigating tragedy helped her to find joy and purpose. Maria has had a diverse career spanning software development, management consulting, executive leadership, and entrepreneurship. Maria has spent her career creating an environment of expectation that cultivates a culture of results.She takes us on a journey of success, then burnout, then back to finding her true place of happiness and how that happened after she had children. The lessons they have taught her in being the leader she is meant to be. We discuss the challenges women face when they are conflicted with their masculine energy and the consequences when they are out of alignment with their feminine side. This showed clearly when she experienced burnout at such a young age. Then one of her 6 brothers was killed tragically, and she felt like her world had ended, not even love could bring her back for a while.Then she found plant medicine and mindfulness work bringing her back to the world and her family.In 2018 she was sought out to run a large tech team and was baffled as to why they had contacted her only to realize this is what she needed. Given her experiences with connecting her masculine and feminine, she was able to quickly realize some wins for the team and aligning the expectations with the results. She talks about getting clear with what you want and how to communicate that to others and align the team on a common vision. But you must emotionally connect and be engaged with that vision for it to come to fruition.Want to better understand your leadership, visit us at www.wilempowered.com and take our free leadership quiz. #mindfulness #wilempowered #wiltalk #chaos

What does it take to navigate the labyrinth of challenges that women confront daily in our work and in our lives? Dr Andrea “Andi” Simon joins us to discuss just how we might do this. Dr Andi is a pioneering corporate anthropologist renowned for guiding companies through transformative change.  She is the author of two acclaimed books and now a third which she co-authored in order to amplify the wisdom of over 102 women. She is joined by Edie Fraser and Robyn Spizman in the creation of “Women Mean Business”. She is also the CEO of the award-winning, Simon Associates Management Consultants, where she brings theories, methods, and the tools of anthropology into businesses to help them “see, feel, and think” in new ways, revolutionizing change.Dr. Andi and I take a deep dive into understanding what drives her passion for transformative change and what prompted her approach of using ethnography and the observations garnered from anthropological research to help companies to change and also this focus on empowerment of women by sharing their wisdom and expertise. So what exactly is an anthropology approach, it is an approach that is focused on observing, being curious, and just watching what happens before we make any conclusions or assumptions. There is great power in being ok with uncertainty and just watching to see what unfolds. Her mission is to help organizations not only see what needs to happen but to be able to feel and think it through. If you pay attention there will always be themes that emerge.So why are so many of us resistant to change? Change is scary and it is the unknown. We as humans like to feel safe and so three things, she shares with us to know:Know your mind has a story – whether it is true or not is dependent on you.You live it and therefore it becomes a habit.Makes you feel consciously incompetent.We are not sure how to play the game so change seems scary. The pandemic is a great example of how we quickly adapted to the uncertainties and so the important thing is to manage your mind and just show up.In her latest book, “Women Mean Business” she and her co-authors celebrate and elevate women by showcasing their wisdom and stories to help us better navigate the complexities in life. She reminds us if we cannot see our role models it's hard to be one. We must engage on all levels and be aware of what and how we show up. Her own personal mottos include that it's not about me but about us, to make change your friend, and build your resilience so that you can thrive. Such a great episode packed with many examples of how change can help you to thrive.Interested in knowing how you might be showing up as a leader? Visit us at www.wilempowered.com and take our free leadership quiz. #change #anthropology #celebratewomen #womenleaders #wilempowered #wiltalk

Why is your image so important not only in your career but in life overall? Linda Yates, the Image Energizer, joins us to talk about all things image.  Linda is a dynamic speaker, author, and executive coach and is known for her positive energy and real-world strategies. She has worked with over 10,000 individuals representing Fortune 500 companies including CVS/Aetna, Delta Airlines, Wells Fargo, and Fannie Mae, just to mention a few. Her mission is to inspire, inform, and illustrate how to lead, build teams, and communicate a positive, polished, and professional image. She believes NOTHING is impossible. At 13 years old Linda knew she wanted to focus on image and asked her parents to invest $300 so that she could go to a seminar to learn about image. She knew exactly what she wanted to do. Then life, marriage, the stories we tell ourselves, and her plans changed. So, she left her dream on the table for over 30 years and entered the corporate world. Then as life does, eleven years ago, her dream came back to the forefront, and she circled back to her true passion of helping clients create an image of distinction.The image of distinction is about how you show up, behave, and communicate with yourself and others. She shares with us the importance of the embodied condition which is bringing the result of how you feel with what you wear. During our conversation we share many stories both personal for each of us but also those we have encountered. How what you wear has an impact on how you show up and why what you wear should be reflective of how you want to be perceived. Some research that was conducted with sales professionals measured their results when wearing a particular colour, they liked versus a colour they didn't, and sales went down with the colour they didn't like. Interesting how this impacts not only us but the energy we emit and the impacts on others.We also discuss what not to wear and being highly in tune with your surroundings. You need to think about what your purpose is and who you are meeting with, does it make sense what you are wearing. She shares some great examples of when she moved from the Midwest to Miami.  Linda shares that for women when you are speaking and remove your jacket, you actually lose 50% of your perceived authority.  And lastly, we speak to that internal image and the communication we share. Words matter and powerful words create an emotional response so think carefully when you choose your words. Always look to lift others including yourself.You can find Linda on LI at Linda H Yates. Looking to better understand your own leadership then visit us at www.wilempowered.com and take our free leadership quiz. #imagematters #imageofdistinction #selftalk #imageenergizer #wilempowered #wiltalk

How does one find their passion and give back at the same time? Join us for a conversation with Blima Ehrentreu, CEO of The Designers Group where she speaks with us about her passion for creating and innovating in a way that leaves a lasting legacy.Blima shares how she first became interested in design and construction at the early age of 8 when her parents moved across the street from her family home to demolish and rebuild it. She was fascinated with every step of the process and was eager to see the finished product.She speaks with us about having a diverse lens and perspective enabling her and her team to bring the best from the many cultures we experience. She also talks about the importance of empowering others and not letting perceived obstacles get in your way. Giving back is a core staple of her business which is why she created a platform “TDG Furniture Exchange” that takes someone's furniture that is no longer needed and matches it to a new owner. This keeps less furniture out of our landfills and makes someone else very happy to receive an item that they need.In addition, they have created TDG Gives Back which allows individuals interested in design to spend a day at their offices to learn and step into the shoes of this creative process. They will mentor individuals hoping to become designers. Check out their website to learn more: thedesignersgroup.com.Blima's passion for the work that they do at TDG is inspiring. Knowing you love what you do every day makes it feel not like work but more like living your dream. That's not to say that every day is easy but it's worth it!!Her focus on creating an experience through design and truly understanding the needs of her clients is crucial to her work. Using skills to really listen, hearing beyond what is being said and touching all of the senses is what brings a design to its fruition. Interested in learning more about your leadership abilities? Take our free leadership quiz at www.wilempowered.com. #design #listeningskills #thedesignersgroup #creativity #innovation #wilempowered #wiltalkpodcast  

What is the ugly truth about the world of beauty: Is it doing more harm (to both you and the planet) than good? Join us for a conversation with CEO, Susannah Dellinger of the Bright Beauty Collective as she shares her journey over the past 17 years as a top executive for leading luxury brands such as Trish McEvoy, Laura Mercier, Dr. Brandt Skincare to name a few. She started her own personal health journey when faced with sudden hormonal issues, adult-onset acne, unexplained infertility, and a devastating miscarriage.  She soon realized the ugly truth about the world of beauty and began to ask the question is it doing more harm than good, especially to yourself and the planet?During her journey, she began to discover effective brands with beautiful skincare and makeup products that left out toxicities, utilized alternative energy sources, gave back to the community, used reusable packaging, and minimized beauty's footprint on the planet.  With the firm belief that these rising conscious beauty brands could compete against the big names if given the right access to retail advantages, she founded the Bright Beauty Collective (BBC) in October 2021.  Using her expertise in the luxury beauty industry, she is giving conscious brands such as Indie Lee, OGEE, One Love Organics, Jillian Dempsey, RMS Beauty, Solara Suncare, and Kjaer Weis a voice, presence, and the tools to stand out on the shelves, with the hope that big-name brands will take notice and start following suit.In our conversation, we discuss the role marketing plays in the multi-billion-dollar industry and how conscious brands can compete. We also dive into the stories we tell ourselves and how to overcome and take that step of courage to have an impact. In only a few short years, Susannah has taken an idea and passion and turned it into a multi-million-dollar industry raising awareness and educating consumers about conscious beauty choices globally. Today she has over 140 freelancers that lead this charge across the globe.Warning – this is an episode that is a must to listen to. You will better understand not only what you put into your body but what you put on it and the potential harm it will cause. In addition, if this episode resonates please listen to our conversation with Kori Estrada where we dive into oral care and its footprint. Add link Would you like to better understand how you show up as a leader? Visit our website at www.wilempowered.com and take our free leadership quiz.Thanks for listening and please do share this episode with someone you feel needs to hear it. #beauty #conscioiusbeauty #consciousleadership #wilempowered #brightbeautycollective #womenleaders #empowered

Revolutionizing conflict with creativity, how does one do that with grace? Karen Valencic, Mechanical engineer, and author of Spiral Impact, Aikido Master combines her experience with conflict resolution and leadership to offer a fresh view to transform the leadership journey. Karen loves the art of Aikido, a martial arts practice that began back in the early 1900s and is the truest form of martial arts. She takes us on a journey of how power moves with us rather than against us. Aikido mimics life through the movements of energy and creativity; struggle and fear keep us stuck, and differences between people, when: they don't see things your way or you are at an impasse.She speaks to the power of intention and knowing what it is you desire and the 3 levels to check in with: 1) Big picture 2)  Personal by honouring yourself and others 3)Immediate intent – what do you want now?She provides a great metaphor of how a hammer and nail are forced with short-term impact, whereas a screw and screwdriver provide expansion and longer-term effects. So many great examples of how Spiral Impact actually gains momentum. We discuss what conflict is and why so many avoid it like the plague. Conflict can be used in a very healthy way to build a creative tension or if not used properly will create a destructive tension. That destructive conflict pushes hard, fast, and long, the intention is typically to control, make wrong, or destroy. Whereas conflict mastery pushes just right for the people involved. The intention is to engage for positive outcomes and innovation.How do you handle conflict? In what ways do you practice either creative tension or destructive tension?You can read more about Karen's on her website at www.spiralimpact.com.  Wanting to better understand how you show up as a leader, visit us at www.wilempowered.com and take our free leadership quiz. #leadership #conflictmastery #difficultconversations #wilempowered #wiltalk

From passion to purpose – what does that look like?For Cathi Nelson, founder and CEO of Photo Managers, author, and community builder, shares her story of passion of storytelling by turning it into a thriving community of purposeful human beings. In 2009, Cathi began organizing photos for family and friends, which very quickly turned into a thriving business with over 700 members worldwide.  She purposefully built this business to be able to create a legacy, community, and human-to-human connection. She shares her insights as to how every life experience is part of the thread that shapes who and how we are being in the world. When she started this business, she never dreamed that it would take off the way that it has. She empowers others to create, innovate, and serve others in a very intentional and purposeful way. Visual storytelling is powerful and brings a person's story to life because of the curiosity that someone has about you. Her team of illuminators helps you tell your story. She speaks to David Brooks's book about whether you are an illuminator or a diminisher. I was so inspired by Cathi's story of intention and awareness to what was right in front of her and the power of saying “YES”. As women especially, we must seize the moment and when the Director of Marketing of Fuji Film asked to meet with her, she did just that, nerves and all, she still said yes.  What will you say yes to? Looking to better understand your leadership abilities? Visit us at www.wilempowered.com and take our free leadership quiz.  #Connection #Community #justsayyes #illuminator #wilempowered #wiltalkpodcast