Podcasts about inspiring women

Want a real look at how breakthrough tech actually gets built and shipped? I had the pleasure of sitting down with Samira Naraghi, Chief Business Officer at Enovix, who has held previous roles at AWS, Meta, Qualcomm, and other notable companies, to unpack a career defined by tackling challenging problems, making significant pivots, and achieving results that speak louder than titles. From growing up in post-war Iran, where power outages made technology feel magical, to leading global go-to-market strategies and launching industry-defining products, Samira shows how adaptability, curiosity, and grit compound into leadership.We trace the through line across semiconductors, cloud, and next-gen batteries: translating deep technology into real business impact. Samira breaks down why go-to-market must start on day one, how co-building with early customers derisks product-market fit, and what it takes to prioritize nascent bets like AR when constraints around power, space, and manufacturability are unforgiving. She shares the unglamorous truth of innovation, fighting physics, supply chains, and disbelief, while still hitting commitments through decisive execution and a culture built for pressure.For women in tech navigating ceilings and seeking visibility, the guidance is clear and actionable. Choose the messy, high-impact work others avoid. Build trust by delivering under pressure. Communicate with clarity, drop the hedging, and be overprepared. We also explore becoming future-ready with AI: learn the fundamentals, speak the language, and use the tools to amplify your work. Mentorship, peer networks, and “quiet boldness” round out a candid playbook for career growth that doesn't wait for permission.I hope this conversation gives you the nudge to take the harder path intentionally, and if so, share it with a friend who needs the encouragement. Subscribe for more honest, tactical stories from leaders building the future, and leave a review to tell us the bold move you're making next.Hi Mary here, through my conversations with women leaders, I've learned just how urgent the need is for AI strategies that actually make sense. It's not about adopting tools just to keep up; it's about building a smart foundation. That's exactly what Beyondsoft is doing. To learn more visit https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL-yCsEeZbsl6ivoZoS9YW1quYxbQr1Teo

On this week's episode of The 1 Girl Revolution Podcast, we welcome Shannon Murphy — co-host of iHeartRadio's Mojo in the Morning show, wife, mama, radio personality, and all-around powerhouse woman! This episode is a full-circle moment for me because I first met Shannon years ago — when I was a sophomore in college — backstage at a Switchfoot concert. We instantly connected over being from Michigan (she grew up on Grosse Ile, and my grandparents lived there!) and our shared love of music and media. At the time, Shannon was just a few years into her radio career, and I was still trying to figure out what I wanted to do with my life. And here we are - many years later - with so many stories to tell! Since then, I've followed Shannon's career and admired her journey — from Indianapolis to Atlanta, and then back home to Michigan, where she continues to light up the airwaves on Mojo in the Morning. She's built an incredible, long-lasting career in radio and continues to inspire so many people with her authenticity, kindness, and heart for others. Beyond the mic, Shannon dedicates so much of her time and energy to giving back — supporting amazing causes like the New Day Foundation, which helps families facing cancer, and Tim Tebow's Night to Shine, which celebrates people with special needs. And so much more! (And by the way, Shannon will be performing at New Day's Celebrity Lip Sync Battle next week — so be sure to grab your tickets today!) In this episode, you'll hear: ✨ Shannon's story growing up and how she stumbled into radio; ✨ What it's really like to balance life, motherhood, and a public career; ✨ How she stays grounded, authentic, and true to herself amid life's ups and downs; ✨ Her favorite memories from her career (including that unforgettable moment on Regis and Kelly!); ✨ The causes and community work closest to her heart; ✨ And so much more!

Happiness is no coincidence. It's a choice, a formula, and according to Mo, even our birthright.In this first chapter, he takes us back to the essence: what happiness truly means, how expectations shape it, and why gratitude is such a powerful counterbalance. This conversation lays the foundation for everything that follows both personally and professionally. From Paris with WOW. We traveled to meet Mo Gawdat, former Chief Business Officer at Google X, international bestselling author of Solve for Happy, and the man behind the mission One Billion Happy.From one planned conversation in Paris with Mo came a four-part podcast on happiness, the mind, authenticity, and the art of letting go. Together with Mo, we explore his vision on happiness, the power and pitfalls of our thinking, the courage to stay authentic in a world shaped by AI, and the ultimate lesson: letting go.

We often believe our thoughts are the truth, yet they are just as often the source of confusion and doubt.Mo explores the tension between what actually happens and the stories our minds create. How can we learn to see what is, without the noise of assumptions? And what happens when we begin to trust intuition as a form of higher intelligence? This chapter invites you to question your own patterns of thought. From Paris with WOW. We traveled to meet Mo Gawdat, former Chief Business Officer at Google X, international bestselling author of Solve for Happy, and the man behind the mission One Billion Happy.From one planned conversation in Paris with Mo came a four-part podcast on happiness, the mind, authenticity, and the art of letting go. Together with Mo, we explore his vision on happiness, the power and pitfalls of our thinking, the courage to stay authentic in a world shaped by AI, and the ultimate lesson: letting go.

In a world that is changing faster than ever, staying true to yourself may be the greatest leadership gift.Mo shares how authenticity is not only our compass in love and relationships, but also a key in business and leadership. From personal stories to the challenges posed by AI, this conversation shows why staying true to yourself is the only way to truly connect.From Paris with WOW. We traveled to meet Mo Gawdat, former Chief Business Officer at Google X, international bestselling author of Solve for Happy, and the man behind the mission One Billion Happy.From one planned conversation in Paris with Mo came a four-part podcast on happiness, the mind, authenticity, and the art of letting go. Together with Mo, we explore his vision on happiness, the power and pitfalls of our thinking, the courage to stay authentic in a world shaped by AI, and the ultimate lesson: letting go.

We end with perhaps the hardest lesson of all: letting go.Control turns out to be an illusion, and real strength lies in trust, softness, and embracing what is - even in times of loss and pain.In this final conversation, Mo shares how the art of letting go not only brings healing but also becomes a source of strength, wisdom, and new space. From Paris with WOW. We traveled to meet Mo Gawdat, former Chief Business Officer at Google X, international bestselling author of Solve for Happy, and the man behind the mission One Billion Happy.From one planned conversation in Paris with Mo came a four-part podcast on happiness, the mind, authenticity, and the art of letting go. Together with Mo, we explore his vision on happiness, the power and pitfalls of our thinking, the courage to stay authentic in a world shaped by AI, and the ultimate lesson: letting go.

This week, Allison Walsh welcomes the extraordinary Karen Keene, a visionary leader, advocate, and survivor whose story is equal parts heartbreaking and inspiring.

Joe is joined by Diarmuid McIntyre of Grey Heron Media and Justyna Cwojdzińska from the Polish Arts Festival to discuss a new documenatry and events happening this week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

(00:00-23:58) – Query & Company opens on a Hump Day Wednesday with Jake Query and producer Eddie Garrison chatting about the Fever defeating the Dream last night to force a game three tomorrow night. Plus, they start previewing this weekend’s game for the Colts down in Nashville. (23:58-38:33) – Don Fischer makes his weekly appearance on Query & Company, and the voice of the Indiana Hoosiers previews Saturday’s big game against Illinois. Don comments on playing a night game on NBC, the running back depth that Curt Cignetti has built, does believe that there were some things that Curt Cignetti learned in the demolishing of Indiana State, and how the fan support is rapidly growing for the Hoosiers. (38:33-44:05) – The first hour of the show concludes with Jake discussing some news that he found out yesterday when preparing for the show. (44:05-1:06:50) – The one o’clock hour starts with Jake Query and Eddie Garrison discussing their thoughts on how the other teams in the AFC South have looked thus far. It leads to a debate as to whether the Colts are, in fact, the best team in the division and should be considered the favorites to win it. (1:06:50-1:25:45) – Indiana Fever Head Coach Stephanie White joins Query & Company to recap last night’s win over the Atlanta Dream to force a winner-take-all game three on Thursday night. She shares what the team must do against the Dream to win tomorrow night, credits the group of players for sticking together through everything this season, shares what it was like last night being able to host a playoff game, and the support that the team receives from the Pacers. (1:25:45-1:28:50) – The second hour of the show concludes with Jake discussing history that was made in Major League Baseball last night. (1:28:50-1:55:31) – Independent journalist and writer David Woods joins the program to discuss how Cole Hocker is doing over in Japan right now and previews his upcoming book “Inspiring Women of Indiana Sports” by highlighting some of the ladies that will be featured in it. (1:55:31-2:04:04) – Earlier in the show, Jake and Eddie discussed who the best team was in the AFC South. They examine the rest of the divisions through two weeks to say who they believe is the best team in each one and then discuss which team they are least confident in. (2:04:21-2:11:26) – Today’s show closes out with Jake and Eddie discussing what they will be doing the rest of the night and if they were fans of the Monday Night Football double header. Plus, JMV joins the show to tell Eddie he saw his mom earlier today and preview his show!Support the show: https://1075thefan.com/query-and-company/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Whether you're aiming for progress over perfection or learning to say “no,” this episode is packed with relatable insights, inspiration, and encouragement to help you face stress head-on—and come out stronger.This is a topic that touches all of us: stress. As women, we juggle countless demands—from our careers and caregiving roles to the pressure to be everything to everyone. I know firsthand what it's like to navigate 60-hour work weeks during tax season, all while trying to keep everything else afloat. In this episode, I share some light-hearted moments, as well as practical strategies that have helped me manage the inevitable stress that comes my way.I'll talk about the importance of pinpointing your core stressors, setting healthy boundaries, and breaking big tasks into smaller, manageable pieces. I'll also look at how reframing negative self-talk and choosing progress over perfection can make a world of difference. More than anything, I want to encourage you—stress isn't something we can avoid, but it is something we can learn to navigate and even use as a catalyst for growth. Let's tackle stress together, so we can show up as our best selves for ourselves and those we care about.Here are my 3 key takeaways:Identify Your Core Stressors: Whether it's caregiving, perfectionism, or overcommitment, recognizing what triggers your stress is the first essential step to managing it effectively.Progress Over Perfection: Betty reminds us that striving for perfection often causes more harm than good; making progress—even if it isn't perfect—is what really matters.Set Boundaries & Prioritize: Audit your commitments, block time for yourself in permanent ink, and don't be afraid to graciously say "no." Protecting your priorities is critical for your well-being.Moments00:00 Managing Stress During CPA Peak Season04:53 Empowered by Modern Female Role Models07:40 Managing Difficult Client Encounters10:05 Efficient Email Management Strategies13:27 Regular Reflection and Reevaluation19:23 Perfectionism Causes Self-Induced Stress20:49 Perfect Yet Stressful Celebration25:20 Perfectionism's Costly Consequences28:45 Regularly Reflect and Adjust Commitments30:11 Challenge Assumptions, Seek Reality33:58 "Confronting Unavoidable Stress"Forward our podcast along to other Inspiring Women in your life.This is THE podcast that advances women toward economic, social, and political achievement. Hosted by Betty Collins, CPA, and Director at Brady Ware and Company. Betty also serves as the Committee Chair for Empowering Women, and Director of the Brady Ware Women's Initiative. Each episode is presented by Brady Ware and Company, committed to empowering women to go their distance in the workplace and at home.For more information, Brady Ware and Company.Remember to follow this podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. And forward our podcast along to other Inspiring Women in your life.Brady Ware and Company

Emily Shields dropped her kids off at school this morning—an eighth grader, a fifth grader, and a toddler—before stepping into her role as Chief Strategy Officer at OSF HealthCare. It's a balance she's perfected through years of strategic career moves and honest self-assessment about what matters most each week. Starting as a physician recruiter at OSF, Emily built relationships across the entire health system that would prove invaluable. "I worked with leadership, hospital presidents, regional leadership in all of those markets. It uniquely positioned me to build trust and confidence across the system," she reflects. The pivotal moment came when an executive sent her a simple note: "This person is retiring. You should think about this." That nudge toward the Vice President of Business Development role changed everything. "It was like something exploded in my office," Emily recalls. She seized the opportunity, moving from recruitment into mergers, acquisitions, and joint ventures—territory she'd never navigated before. "I'm definitely not afraid to say when I don't know something and to pull in a team to surround me to help," Emily shares. Under the mentorship of Michelle Conger (OSF's incoming CEO), she learned to distinguish between skills that can be taught and the innate hunger to learn that makes leaders successful. In this candid episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Emily also reveals: Why "mission and culture always win"—even when walking away from lucrative deals How OSF's innovation committee fast-tracks partnerships and pilots The power of being "at the right place at the right time" AND seizing the opportunity Why asking for help isn't weakness—it's strategic leadership How to think in "week chunks" when balancing career and family The critical importance of always signaling you're ready for more "You have to demonstrate you can do more than what you're currently doing. That does mean taking on projects outside your official job duties—that's how other people know you're capable," Emily advises. Now overseeing marketing, planning, and business development as Chief Strategy Officer, Emily is bringing previously siloed functions together to drive strategic outcomes. Her latest achievement? A 100-bed behavioral health joint venture opening next spring, addressing a critical gap where 2,000 patients were leaving the service area for psychiatric care. For women navigating their own career trajectories while raising families, Emily's message is clear: "Give yourself grace. Work hard and seize those opportunities when they're in front of you. Recognize that the path you set out for yourself in your head is not the one you're gonna take." From recruiter to C-suite in one organization, while raising three children and driving multi-million dollar deals—Emily Shields proves that with the right support, strategic thinking, and self-compassion, you can build an exceptional career without trying to be perfect at everything, every week. "There are weeks where work wins, and there are weeks where being a mom wins. And that's okay." Chapters 03:23 - Asking for Help as a Strength 05:26 - From Physician Recruiter to System Leader 07:39 - Always Signal You're Ready for More 09:33 - The Power of Right Place, Right Time 12:38 - Building Strategic Partnerships in Behavioral Health 16:37 - When Mission and Culture Trump Growth 18:55 - Breaking Down Silos Through Collaboration 20:58 - Give Yourself Grace and Seize Opportunities Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

Welcome to Heart of the Matter Radio/Podcast. Today, we remember the life of Esther de Berdt Reed. Despite her British heritage, she embraced the patriot cause. While she suffered through hardships in the Revolutionary War, she noticed Washington's soldiers wore threadbare uniforms. She chose to do something about that, and her actions were revolutionary. Listen and enjoy.  

In this powerful episode of Inspiring Women in CX, Clare Muscutt is joined by Kerry Sudale, a leading CX and Contact Centre recruiter and passionate advocate for inclusive, people-first hiring. With the market more competitive than ever, Kerry shares her expert insights on why so many talented CX leaders are currently on the open market—and what it really takes to stand out and secure the right role. Together, Clare and Kerry explore: The real reasons behind the CX job market squeeze The most common mistakes job seekers make (and how to avoid them) How to build a personal narrative that balances confidence with authenticity Practical strategies for resilience, self-promotion, and staying visible during a tough search Kerry also opens up about her own journey, the challenges she's overcome, and the role that community has played in shaping her career and mission. Whether you're actively job hunting, navigating uncertainty, or thinking about your next move, this episode is packed with real talk, actionable advice, and inspiration for women in CX at every stage of their career.

"This transition was about more than just a business model. It was about trust for the community." When Deborah Visconi took the helm at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, she wasn't just changing a hospital's tax status—she was rebuilding an institution's soul. Tasked with transforming a for-profit hospital into a true safety net for New Jersey's most vulnerable communities, Deborah brought something unique to the challenge: she'd lived it. "Growing up in a Latinx household in an underserved community, I understood what it meant to navigate barriers and be overlooked," Deborah shares. That lived experience became her North Star as she rebuilt Bergen New Bridge from the ground up, ensuring no one would be turned away based on ability to pay, language, immigration status, or circumstance. Seven and a half years later, the transformation is remarkable. Under Deborah's leadership, the hospital now accepts every type of insurance available in New Jersey. They've opened a Depression Center of Excellence, launched comprehensive addiction treatment programs, and created specialized care for eating disorders—all while operating as a non-profit in challenging economic times. "We don't innovate here with glitzy towers and glass buildings. We innovate around people," Deborah explains. During COVID-19, while the world was falling apart and people were dying at their doorsteps, her team remained that "beacon of health, hope, and healing" their community desperately needed. In this powerful episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Deborah also reveals: How "Chief Engagement Officer" became her real title—and why her phone is always on Why technology will never replace compassion in healthcare The three pillars of transformation: partnerships, training, and redefining success beyond financials How holistic care transforms outcomes for addiction and mental health Why building your own table beats waiting for a seat at someone else's The invisible barriers women still face in healthcare leadership Her bold vision for the next generation of women leaders "Equity isn't an initiative—it's embedded in everything we do," Deborah states firmly. Even as DEI becomes a polarizing term, she refuses to waver: "Being able to provide equitable care equals excellence and quality care delivery." For women aspiring to leadership, her advice is direct: "It takes courage to take those steps and not be afraid to use your voice. If you're not given a seat at the table, bring your own seat—or better yet, build your own table." From frontline phlebotomist to transformational CEO, Deborah's grassroots journey proves that the most powerful healthcare innovations come not from technology or buildings, but from leaders who understand their communities' struggles firsthand. "I want future leaders to see they belong at the helm of major institutions, particularly women and Latinx women," she reflects. "I want my legacy to be one of inclusion, respect, and extraordinary relationships." At a time when healthcare faces unprecedented challenges, Deborah Visconi is showing what's possible when hospitals truly serve as safety nets—catching everyone who falls, regardless of who they are or where they come from. Chapters 01:40 - Leading a Hospital Transformation 03:52 - Personal Background Shaping Leadership 05:58 - Building Innovation Through Community Focus 08:24 - Trust Through Engagement and Action 12:33 - Transformational Programs and Patient-Centered Care 18:30 - Breaking Barriers for Women Leaders 24:33 - Legacy of Inclusion and Lifting Others Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Deborah Visconi on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

From podcast to community to global movement — Inspire has been a journey I never could have predicted when I first hit record five years ago.In this special episode, I reflect on how it all began: the conversations that shaped the Inspiring Women in Hospitalitypodcast, the small roundtables that sparked bigger ideas, and how it grew into a worldwide network of women supporting each other.It's a story of growth, connection, and the belief that together, we can change the face of leadership in our industry.Check out the website for more details: https://www.inspiringwomeninhospitality.com/

On the outside her life looked perfect - successful model, partying at the Playboy mansion. But it hid a childhood destroyed by abuse and neglect. Abuse that continued into adulthood, and resulted in her becoming homeless, with no help from a government that puts illegal immigrants before its own citizens.Louise Glover's story is one of survival, resilience, and determination to rebuild her life and finally find happiness.Proudly sponsored by Gold Seal - suppliers of the highest grade Shilajit and health products in the UK. For a 10% discount on their pure premium Shilajit, Mushroom Capsules, Testosterone Booster, and other health supplements, visit:https://goldsealshilajit.com/?oly=liamtuffs&utm_source=YouTube&utm_medium=LiamTuffs&utm_campaign=shilajitresins&utm_content=videodescription

This episode is packed with inspiring advice for women at every stage of their careers, especially those ready to step into leadership roles and empower the next generation. If you're looking for a dose of courage and actionable strategies, you won't want to miss this conversation!I welcome Michelle Madden, CEO of Epic. Michelle's journey is nothing short of remarkable—from her humble beginnings as a young woman facing homelessness at 17, to leading an organization that provides 24/7 care for individuals with disabilities. I have known Michelle for years, and our conversation is filled with wisdom on what it truly means to scale up as a woman in leadership.Michelle shares candidly about the importance of taking initiative, creating your own seat at the table, and fostering a culture of innovation and belonging at Epic. You'll hear how her lived experiences shaped her compassionate but bold leadership style, and why advocating for yourself and others—especially in tough moments—can lead to real change. This episode is packed with inspiring advice for women at every stage of their careers, especially those ready to step into leadership roles and empower the next generation. Here are my top 3 takeaways for any woman striving to claim their seat at the table:Lead Without Waiting for Permission: Don't wait to be asked! Michelle's advice: See a problem? Step up and solve it. Initiative and solutions-focused thinking earn that seat at the table.Build a Culture of Belonging: Epic's success is rooted in its inclusive culture, which values authentic voices and tough conversations. True innovation happens when everyone feels they belong and can contribute.Prepare Others for the Table: Real leadership is about succession—investing in future leaders and making space for others to rise. Michelle's approach to mentorship ensures others have the chance to scale up, too.Moments00:00 From Park Bench to CEO04:26 Intuition and Decision-Making Discomfort06:36 "Initiative Leads to Recognition"11:45 "Epic's Rebranding and Mission Focus"16:05 "Mentor's Retirement Concerns"19:02 Persistence in Political Ambitions22:25 "Listening and Confidence in Asking"22:57 Empowering Frontline Female Leaders27:38 Empowering Women Through Mentorship30:07 "Embrace Change, Evolve Consciously"32:49 "Embracing the Journey"Forward our podcast along to other Inspiring Women in your life.This is THE podcast that advances women toward economic, social, and political achievement. Hosted by Betty Collins, CPA, and Director at Brady Ware and Company. Betty also serves as the Committee Chair for Empowering Women, and Director of the Brady Ware Women's Initiative. Each episode is presented by Brady Ware and Company, committed to empowering women to go their distance in the workplace and at home.For more information, Brady Ware and Company.Remember to follow this podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. And forward our podcast along to other Inspiring Women in your life.Brady Ware and Company

"I believe when you put yourself in uncomfortable situations is when you grow the most. Living in a rural village, no running water, no electricity, and essentially being a doula in a middle Atlas Mountain Village for two and a half years, different language, different religion, you know, you just learn a lot about people." From Peace Corps volunteer in Morocco to CEO of Oxeon—the executive search firm reimagining healthcare leadership—Sonia Millsom has spent 30 years proving that the most uncomfortable paths lead to the greatest transformations. Her journey through healthcare's biggest successes (including helping scale Maven to unicorn status and Iora Health to a billion-dollar exit) taught her one critical truth: companies don't fail because of bad CEOs—they fail because the wrong people are at the wrong tables. Now at Oxeon, Sonia is fixing that problem by placing leaders at ALL the tables that matter: executive teams, boardrooms, and cap tables. Because after 13 years of data, she knows exactly what makes leaders successful—and it's not what most people think. "High performing teams have high degrees of psychological safety," she explains. But in today's world of AI disruption, multi-generational workforces, and constant pivots, that safety is harder to build than ever. Her solution? Stop looking for the CEO with three unicorn exits. Start looking for leaders who can "think again" like scientists, not preachers or prosecutors. In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Sonia also reveals: The 5 key attributes that predict leadership success (hint: clock speed matters more than credentials) Why women will control $34 trillion by 2030—and how that changes everything about healthcare What Peace Corps taught her about patient care that Harvard Business School never could The real reason companies pivot faster now (and why your old playbook won't save you) How ambient listening cameras preventing patient falls signals healthcare's AI future Why "life begins at the end of your comfort zone"—advice she's passing to her daughters The pattern recognition trap that causes investors to miss breakthrough leaders "Nothing is up and to the right all the time," Sonia admits. "When those times of when things go down is actually where you learn the most." From serving as a doula in rural Morocco to orchestrating billion-dollar healthcare transformations, Sonia Millsom proves that understanding people—whether patients in villages or executives in boardrooms—is the key to driving real change. At Oxeon, she's not just filling leadership positions; she's architecting the future of healthcare by ensuring the right leaders are at every table where decisions get made. Her motto? "Life begins at the end of your comfort zone." Her mission? Making sure healthcare's next generation of leaders—including her own daughters—are ready to be uncomfortable, curious, and kind enough to transform an industry that touches us all. Chapters 01:30 - Why Leadership Diversity Drives Healthcare Success 03:45 - Five Key Attributes of Successful Leaders 07:20 - Psychological Safety in Uncertain Times 10:15 - From Peace Corps to Healthcare CEO 13:00 - Pivoting in Healthcare: Lessons from Iora and Maven 16:30 - AI and the Multi-Generational Workforce 19:45 - Women's $34 Trillion Financial Future 23:00 - Life Begins at the End of Your Comfort Zone Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Sonia Millsom on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

Want to Be Truly Happy? Do This! with Matt Gersper Aging doesn't mean fading. It means rising—with power, grace, and purpose. This week's Midlife Love Out Loud episode is a soul-filling conversation with Matt Gersper of @happyliving — and you're going to love it. We dove deeply and covered: -The 4 keys to aging with joy -Why gratitude is your daily medicine -How to live from your spirit, no matter what your body's doing This episode is truly inspiring. Enjoy! Bio: Matt Gersper is an author, motivational speaker, and entrepreneur. He is the Founder of Happy Living: a health and wellness media and book publishing company. He is the author of Turning Inspiration into Action, The Belief Road Map, and Inspiring Women.  Matt believes a better self is always possible – today, and every day… and he has dedicated the rest of his professional life to developing and sharing best practices for health and happiness. Happy Living is on a mission to improve the health and wellbeing of the world, one person at a time.  Grab the Making Your Mark of Significance  here:   https://happyliving.com/product/making-your-mark-of-significance/ https://www.facebook.com/matt.gersper.5  https://www.instagram.com/veryhappyliving Learn more about Junie here: https://www.midlifeloveoutloud.com

"I was reading this report and it was the same old women who are making steady progress in leadership, but we're not making it fast enough. After all these years of being a leader, of being a mentor, of being a coach, of helping other women. I was just frustrated. How can this be?" After 30 years in healthcare technology leadership and reading yet another McKinsey report showing glacial progress for women, Laurie McGraw had enough. That frustration became fuel—launching the Inspiring Women podcast over four years ago to amplify the voices and stories of accomplished women leaders. Now, after 200+ conversations with extraordinary women across healthcare, technology, and business, Laurie shares what she's learned about accelerating women's advancement into leadership. The patterns are clear: every successful woman has moments of doubt before breakthrough, no one is "done learning," and the most accomplished leaders are often the most driven to contribute more. "The moments in these conversations that I love the most—every accomplished woman when you see them speaking so impactfully and powerfully, it seems easy," Laurie reveals. "But I like to draw out those moments in time when that same person wasn't all that they are. How did they make that leap?" In Part 2 of this special Q&A episode, Laurie discusses: The McKinsey report that sparked her frustration—and action—to create Inspiring Women Why she chose podcasting as the platform to accelerate women's leadership advancement The surprising patterns discovered across 200+ conversations with accomplished women How even the most powerful women still have "next levels" they're trying to reach Why men listening to the podcast has become an unexpected catalyst for change What listeners tell her about those breakthrough "nugget" moments that change careers Her ultimate vision: more women in leadership creates a more just and equitable society "I get as many comments from men who listen to Inspiring Women as I do from women, because it helps them understand what people are dealing with and how they can be supportive," Laurie shares, highlighting how allies are crucial to systemic change. With women's funding still at a paltry 2% and progress remaining frustratingly incremental, Laurie's message is clear: "Why is having women in leadership important? When we have more women in leadership, we have a more just and equitable society. Full stop. That is why I am doing this." Four years, 200+ episodes, and countless transformed careers later, the Inspiring Women podcast continues its mission—one conversation, one story, one breakthrough moment at a time. Chapters 00:30 - Why I Started the Inspiring Women Podcast 02:45 - The Simple Concept Behind the Show 03:50 - Patterns from 200+ Conversations 05:30 - Even Accomplished Women Keep Growing 06:15 - Vision for the Inspiring Women Community 07:45 - Dream Dinner Guest: Katie Couric 08:30 - Be a Voracious Learner 09:15 - How Can We Be Bolder? Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

What does it take to succeed in male-dominated fields? Cherilynn Castleman knows firsthand, having navigated 30+ years in sales leadership at Fortune 500 companies as a woman of color. Her journey from selling Girl Scout cookies to coaching C-suite executives at Amazon and Walmart reveals powerful insights about career advancement, personal branding, and overcoming barriers.Cherilynn's revelation that "sales is a gateway skill" transforms how we think about this crucial capability. "Everybody sells," she explains. "If you're interviewing for a job, you're selling yourself. If you have an idea in marketing, you're selling your idea." This reframing makes sales accessible to everyone—especially women who might otherwise avoid this traditionally male-dominated field.The conversation takes a powerful turn when Cherilynn shares her framework for handling microaggressions—those painful "paper cut" moments that undermine confidence. She outlines three distinct types and exactly how to respond to each, providing practical tools for self-advocacy while maintaining dignity. Her three-part formula for career success is equally actionable: be competent ("too good to be ignored"), have confidence to share your point of view, and genuinely care about your work and clients.Perhaps most valuable is Cherilynn's strategic approach to mentorship and building a personal brand that attracts opportunities. She reveals that 100% of her business coaching Fortune 500 executives comes through LinkedIn, a platform she once feared, and shares exactly how she transformed her presence there. Her mission to empower one million women by 2030 demonstrates how an audacious goal can focus your efforts and open unexpected doors, from teaching at Harvard to developing global training programs.Connect with Cherilynn on LinkedIn and mention this podcast to receive her frameworks on any topic discussed. Whether you're early in your career or looking to break through to leadership, her practical wisdom will help you find your voice and show up bolder in every professional setting.Support the show When you subscribe to the podcast, you are supporting our work's mission, allowing us to continue highlighting successful women in a variety of careers to inspire others helping pay our wonderful editor, Chris, and helping me in paying our hosting expenses.

On this week's episode of The 1 Girl Revolution Podcast, we welcome Collette Divitto — entrepreneur, baker, author, speaker, and founder of Collettey's Cookies and Collettey's Leadership Program. You may know Collette from her inspiring story that went viral in 2016, when she turned rejection into fuel for her mission and built a cookie empire. After facing countless job rejections because she was born with Down Syndrome, Collette decided to create her own path and founded Collettey's Cookies — not only to share her delicious “Amazing Cookies” with the world, but also to create meaningful jobs for people with “different abilities.” Since then, Collette has been featured on CNN, Good Morning America, ABC World News, People Magazine, BBC, and many other media outlets. She's sold over 500,000 cookies, built a thriving company in Boston that now employs 15+ people (several with disabilities), and continues to grow her mission of empowerment and inclusion. But Collette's story doesn't end with cookies. Through her nonprofit, Collettey's Leadership Program, she provides entrepreneurship and leadership training to people with disabilities, helping them discover their abilities, build confidence, and pursue their dreams. She also travels the country as a speaker and advocate, and one of her ultimate goals is to work with lawmakers in Washington, D.C. to create more employment opportunities for people with disabilities. In this episode, you'll hear: ✨ Collette's journey growing up with Down Syndrome and discovering her passion for baking; ✨ The story behind her now-famous Collettey's Cookies; ✨ How she turned rejection in the job market into an opportunity to launch her own business; ✨ The growth of Collettey's Cookies and its mission to employ people with disabilities; ✨ Her advocacy work and her dreams for systemic change in the world; ✨ And so much more!

"I think my media roles have resulted in trust, but that's not why I got into it. I got into it because what an incredible platform to have... to educate the public. On average, about 80,000 people at a time." When Dr. Archelle Georgiou was in clinical practice, she did the math: 15 patients a day for 30 years. The number didn't feel impactful enough. So this Johns Hopkins-trained physician made an unorthodox choice—leaving patient care to join the very managed care industry that frustrated her, determined to fix the system from within. From associate medical director at Cigna to leadership at UnitedHealth Group, Dr. Georgiou discovered that sometimes the best way to heal healthcare is to understand how it's financed and delivered. But her most powerful platform came through an unexpected channel: television. For over 16 years and 2,000 segments, she's been translating complex medical information for millions, becoming a trusted voice in America's living rooms. When COVID-19 struck and the world watched Johns Hopkins count cases and deaths, Dr. Georgiou saw what was missing: real-time hospital data. In one weekend, she and a colleague built what the entire healthcare system hadn't—a national hospital tracking dashboard that informed policymakers, appeared in major publications, and generated 12 peer-reviewed studies. In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Dr. Georgiou reveals: Why America's "paternalistic culture" makes us listen to doctors—and why we need to listen more critically How she went from treating 15 patients daily to educating 80,000 people at a time The weekend project that solved COVID's biggest data gap when no one else would Why managed care's influence on healthcare delivery shocked even an industry insider How creating annual strategic business plans for yourself can drive reinvention What really determines impact: degrees and titles, or understanding your core talents Why solving patient care problems remains her "true north" across every role From humble beginnings with parents who didn't finish elementary school to becoming a national medical correspondent, board member, and strategic advisor, Dr. Georgiou proves that maximizing your impact sometimes means leaving the traditional path behind. "Every single year I work with myself to create a strategic business plan," she shares. "A $10 million business has a business plan every single year. So why don't you?" A calculated risk-taker who's never afraid to walk through doors that inch open, Dr. Archelle Georgiou continues to reinvent what it means to be a physician leader—one who measures success not in patients seen, but in lives transformed through education, advocacy, and evidence-based truth. Chapters 2:15 - From Physician to Managed Care Leader 5:40 - Why Healthcare is So Hard to Navigate 9:30 - The Power of Media: Reaching 80,000 People at Once 13:45 - COVID Crisis Response: Building the Hospital Data Dashboard 18:20 - Leadership Across Five Tracks 20:50 - Annual Personal Strategic Planning 23:30 - Finding Your Core Talents Beyond Your Degree 26:00 - The Storyteller-Healthcare-Data Formula Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Archelle Georgiou, MD on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

Ashley Segura is a content marketing strategist, speaker, and operator with 15+ years of experience turning messy, disconnected marketing efforts into systems that actually work. As Director of Marketing at SearchLab Digital, she leads campaigns that connect with humans (not just algorithms) for brands across the globe. Invited to speak at industry-leading events like SMX Munich, BrightonSEO, Pubcon, Engage, and Semrush Spotlight, Ashley has also been named a Top 100 Content Marketing Influencer and featured in SEOFOMO's Inspiring Women in SEO.

On this week's episode of The 1 Girl Revolution Podcast, we welcome Leia Hunt — cancer survivor, inspirational speaker, author, and founder of Leia's Kids - a nonprofit dedicated to supporting children and families battling cancer. Leia's own cancer journey began when she was just two years old, after being diagnosed with a rare form of eye cancer. She endured 26 surgeries and multiple rounds of chemotherapy, ultimately losing sight in one eye. But instead of letting her struggles define her, Leia turned her pain into purpose — speaking at the White House, working alongside the American Cancer Society and the Eye Tumor Research Foundation, and inspiring countless others through her story. At just 18 years old, while still in high school, Leia founded Leia's Kids — a nonprofit dedicated to supporting children and families battling childhood cancer. As a survivor herself, Leia knows firsthand the challenges these children and their families face. Her organization provides financial grants, hosts dream parties, organizes mental health retreats, and so much more — offering not just support, but joy, hope, and a sense of community during some of life's hardest moments. In this episode, you'll hear: ✨ Leia's incredible journey as a child with cancer and now as a cancer survivor; ✨ How her childhood experiences inspired her to start Leia's Kids at just 18; ✨ The heart and mission behind Leia's Kids — and the life-changing impact they have on families; ✨ Stories from the dream parties, retreats, and programs she's created; ✨ How faith and resilience have guided her through challenges; ✨ What she's learned about life, hope, and community from the children she serves; ✨ And so much more!

From four-time Olympian to Fortune 500 advisor to record-breaking masters athlete at 62, Joetta proves that reinvention has no expiration date. After hanging up her spikes in 2000 following 28 straight seasons of middle-distance running, Joetta built a thriving business helping corporations apply athletic principles to achieve excellence. Then, 25 years later, her daughter's simple request—"Mommy, I want to see you run"—sparked an extraordinary comeback. "There's a difference between being healthy for someone in their sixties and competing at a level again," Joetta reflects. But compete she does, crushing records in the 100 and 200 meters, winning national championships, and showing the masters circuit what excellence looks like when you refuse to slow down. The daughter of the late Dr. Joe Clark (immortalized in the film "Lean On Me"), Joetta learned early that "anything associated with the Clarks has to be excellent." This mantra has driven her from Olympic tracks to corporate boardrooms, where her signature "Joetta Effect" transforms organizations through what she calls the three S's: understanding skill sets, developing strategy, and building staying power. "I'm a four-time Olympian, but I tried out six times," she shares. "I had to have staying power those other two times to get to the third time, which was my first time making the Olympic team." Now, as CEO of JoTyme Fitness and a sought-after speaker, Joetta doesn't just preach wellness—she embodies it. Her mission extends beyond personal achievement to lifting entire communities, especially youth who need to understand that success in sports extends far beyond going pro. In this powerhouse episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Joetta also reveals: The "reverse role play" technique that transforms toxic workplace dynamics Why your "why" must outweigh your "how" to achieve any goal The direct connection between physical wellness and professional productivity How to build a personal brand that stands alone (think Madonna, Oprah, Socrates... and Joetta) The critical difference between being a leader and "merely taking a walk" Her "Garden for Success" framework featuring rows of peas, squash, lettuce, and turnips From urban to suburban to rural communities, Joetta's message resonates: "It's not about being an Olympic champion. I don't have a gold medal from the Olympics, but I got the Gold Medal of life." Her approach to continuous reinvention challenges conventional wisdom about aging, retirement, and what's possible when you know your purpose. "When you wrap yourself around yourself, that's a small package," Joetta explains. "But when you wrap yourself around more people, that's a big package, and that's the gift I want to give." Whether she's breaking masters records, advising Fortune 500 companies, or mentoring youth about the billion-dollar sports industry beyond playing professionally, Joetta Clark Diggs exemplifies what happens when you plant good seeds and refuse to stop growing. At an age when many are slowing down, she's just getting started—again. Chapters 00:22 - Mission to Advance Women Leaders 02:14 - From Olympic Track to Breaking Records Again 06:41 - Reinventing Yourself at Any Age 08:46 - The Joetta Effect in Corporate Leadership 13:19 - Why Youth Development Matters 18:22 - Finding Your Why to Fuel Motivation 20:45 - Building and Protecting Your Personal Brand 23:32 - The Garden for Success Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Joetta on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

On this week's episode of The 1 Girl Revolution Podcast, we welcome Amanda Booth — model, actress, advocate, and mother. You may know Amanda from her incredible modeling career, from national campaigns for Lancôme, Target, and True Religion, or from her appearances in Parents, Harper's Bazaar, and People magazines. But in this deeply personal and powerful episode, Amanda opens up about a very different part of her journey — motherhood, advocacy, and life with her son Micah, who has Down Syndrome and nonverbal autism. When Amanda and her husband, Mike, became parents to Micah, their world shifted — and so did their purpose. Instead of hiding behind the camera, they stepped into the spotlight to share their story, spread love and awareness, and break down harmful stereotypes around Down Syndrome and disability. Through storytelling, modeling, fashion, and everyday family life, Amanda has become a leading voice in the Down Syndrome community and a fierce advocate for inclusion and representation. In this episode, you'll hear: ✨ Amanda's journey from international fashion model to proud mother and advocate; ✨ Micah's birth story — and how his life changed Amanda's perspective on life and purpose; ✨ How Amanda uses storytelling, photography, and social media to raise awareness and build community; ✨ The beauty and joy of life with Micah — and what he teaches her every day; ✨ The importance of inclusion in fashion, media, and society; ✨ Amanda's advice to parents navigating a diagnosis or raising a child with different needs; ✨ And so much more! Follow their journey: Follow Amanda @amanda_booth and Micah @lifewithmicah on Instagram to see their beautiful family, learn more about advocacy, and join the conversation around inclusion and love. Listen + Subscribe: Don't miss this heartfelt, honest, and inspiring conversation — and so many others! Listen to The 1 Girl Revolution Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and be sure to subscribe to stay up-to-date with our latest episodes. ✨ Join the movement to empower women and girls — and change the world, one story at a time. For more information, visit: 1GirlRevolution.com

"You have to show up and do the work. There is nothing more satisfying than getting good work done." From helping scale Allscripts when less than 5% of physicians used technology to now serving as Chief Commercial Officer at Transcarent, Laurie McGraw has spent decades transforming healthcare through technology. Her journey spans from being the sole woman in countless boardrooms to becoming a fierce advocate for pulling other women up the leadership ladder. "Early on it was so notable to me in a way that was just frustrating," Laurie recalls about being the only woman in the room. But that frustration transformed into fuel. Today, she's not just occupying C-suite positions—she's using her hard-won confidence to push other women to level-jump, not just climb. The turning point? A mentor who challenged her to take an "undesirable" implementation and support role instead of staying comfortable in product development. "What are you gonna be? Is this your vision for yourself?" her mentor asked. That lateral move became the stepping stone to becoming president of the company. Now at Transcarent, Laurie is focused on making healthcare accessible and affordable—but her mission extends beyond business metrics. With women still representing only 20% of top healthcare leadership positions, she's done being polite about the pace of change. "I'm more aggressive now. It's less about coaching. I'm like, come on, we have to get going on this. Push for that C-suite position. You earned it, you deserve it, you're more than capable." In this special episode of Inspiring Women, host Laurie McGraw turns the mic on herself and reveals: Why the end of DEI initiatives means women must work harder to pull each other forward The cold truth about confidence: "I can trust in myself to get the job done" What she really thinks about women who reach the top and pull the ladder up behind them Why bold leadership—not incremental moves—is what women need in 2025 How to build your "tribe" of truth-tellers, not just cheerleaders The surprising power of taking jobs you don't initially want "We are in a time where bold leadership is required of us. And as women, we are uniquely equipped—empathetic leadership, inclusivity, hearing all the voices in the room. Women are particularly good at this." But Laurie doesn't sugarcoat the challenge. With DEI becoming "a trigger word" and supportive laws being repealed, she's clear about what's needed: "It's up to us. We have to do more to pull the next generations of extraordinarily capable women forward into leadership." For women struggling with confidence, her advice is direct: "Develop your tribe of people who will help you. Not just friends who say 'great job,' but coaches and mentors who can reflect back the cold, hard truth." From a development team leader to healthcare transformation executive, Laurie McGraw's journey proves that showing up and doing hard work isn't enough—women need to claim their space, demand their worth, and most importantly, bring others with them. "We shouldn't be shooting for the next career move. We should be level jumping—two above." Chapters 00:43 - Core Leadership Principles: Show Up and Do the Work 02:46 - Evolution of Leadership Style Through Experience 04:19 - Challenges as a Woman in Health Tech Leadership 06:20 - Accelerating Progress Toward C-Suite Representation 08:11 - Women Supporting Women vs. Competition 09:47 - The Mentor Who Changed My Career Path 11:52 - Why Women Need Bold Leadership Now 14:11 - Building Your Tribe for Confidence and Success Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

In this episode of the Tough Girl Podcast, we're joined by Sharon Evans, also known as the Free Wheeling Kiwi—a 58-year-old adventurer, storyteller, and passionate advocate for women embracing the outdoors, especially later in life. Sharon shares the incredible story of walking the full Te Araroa Trail, a 3,000km thru-hike stretching the length of New Zealand. Alongside her partner, she tackled harsh weather, blisters, foot pain, and relentless terrain—proving that age is no barrier to adventure. Five years ago, Sharon made the bold decision to walk away from her rural real estate career and pursue a life filled with purpose, exploration, and connection to nature. In this conversation, we explore her motivations, the magical (and muddy) moments on the trail, and her mission to empower women over 50 to step into the wild with confidence. Sharon also shares practical tips for low-cost adventuring, content creation on the go, and how she's continuing her journey by heading to Australia's rugged Larapinta Trail next. If you're looking for inspiration to follow your passion—no matter your age—this episode is for you. ***  New episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast drop every Tuesday at 7 AM (UK time)! Make sure to subscribe so you never miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women pushing boundaries.  Do you want to support the Tough Girl Mission to increase the amount of female role models in the media in the world of adventure and physical challenges? Support via Patreon! Join me in making a difference by signing up here: www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast.  Your support makes a difference.  Thank you x *** Show notes Who is Sharon Evans aka Free Wheeling Kiwi  Based in New Zealand  Going on adventures and telling stories  Spending time in the outdoors - often being uncomfortable and wet Spending time at the beach  Gen X, 58 years old  Having a huge amount of freedom and spending time outdoors Her passion for travel Living in the jungle in Borneo, Malaysia Growing up without social media  How technology has advanced  Her first camera (film camera) at 15 years old  Deciding what to do with her life Being shy and introverted  Where did the name/brand freewheeling kiwi come from  Working as a rural estate agent  Riding bikes  Deciding to make a change 5 years ago  Planning to go to Everest Base Camp  How plans got derailed because of Covid Making the transition and changing your career to follow your passions Planning….. Lowering her cost of living, being a careful spender Wanting to encourage more women to spend more time in the outdoors in nature  Especially women over the age of 50 Focusing on her why Te Araroa Trail, 3,000 km, the long walk in New Zealand  Being concerned about the cold Starting on the 2nd October Walking with Andrew - as a couple Having their 1st anniversary on the trail in the Richmond Rangers Keeping the pack weight down The highlights, challenges and magical moments from the trail  Not wanting to quit Advice for new hikers Keeping costs down and sending resupply boxes Big food carries The extreme conditions and the impact on gear  River crossings and being cautious  Gusting winds and being blown off her feet Wet feet…. Sand walking, mud walking, road walking  Blisters…. Losing toe nails Getting off her feet and dealing with unbearable foot pain Palette fatigue with food Coming to the end of the journey and what it was like Creating content and stories during the journey  Creating a 1 min reel/tiktok every day How to connect with Sharon Final words of advice  Believing in yourself and your abilities  The next challenge and heading to Australia to walk the Larapinta Trail (230km trail through the outback)    Social Media Website www.freewheelingkiwi.com Instagram @freewheelingkiwi/ Facebook: www.facebook.com/freewheelingkiwi Threads:  @freewheelingkiwi TikTok: @freewheelingkiwi YouTube: @FreewheelingKiwi   

"Women are 80% of the healthcare workforce in the US, up to 70% globally. So I always say if women aren't healthy, the entire world is at risk of not being healthy." Mary Stutts has spent decades dismantling barriers for women in healthcare—first as a senior executive at Stanford Healthcare and multiple biopharma companies, now as CEO of the Healthcare Businesswomen's Association (HBA). But what she's seeing today has her more concerned than ever: for the first time in 20 years, the number of women in C-suite roles is declining. "The challenge isn't just getting women into leadership," Mary explains. "It's helping them stay in leadership and thrive there." The culprit? A perfect storm of broken systems: the "broken rung" that blocks women's first promotion to manager, the "concrete ceiling" at director level, and a generation gap that's creating chaos in the workplace. Mary reveals a startling insight about today's young professionals: "They're digitally native but corporately naive. We give them managerial responsibility for a head count, but we haven't trained them how to manage. They take a punitive approach—'You don't do it the way I do it, so you're doing it wrong.' Then everyone gets frustrated and leaves." The stakes couldn't be higher. With a $1 trillion economic gap between women's and men's health, and young women increasingly choosing social media influencer careers over healthcare professions, the industry faces a crisis that threatens everyone's wellbeing. In this essential episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Mary also shares: Why less than 20% of professionals have a development plan—and how this simple tool can transform your career trajectory The 15-minute mentoring rule that changed everything for busy executives Why there's no such thing as a "perfect mentor" and what you need instead The five critical experiences women aren't getting access to that block their path to leadership How to bridge the five (soon to be six) generations currently in the workforce Why "meritocracy is a three-way street"—and what that means for companies trying to retain talent Mary also reveals the innovative work of her nonprofit, The Center for Excellence in Life (T-CEL), which created virtual internships during COVID for students who never thought they'd attend college—many of whom are graduating now. "Keep focusing on describing the very needed work we are doing," Mary urges. "We still need leadership acceleration. We still need talent development. We still need workforces that are representative of the patients and communities we serve. At the end of the day, people most trust people who look like them. That's not bias—that's human nature." From writing "The Missing Mentor: Women Advising Women on Power, Progress and Priorities" to leading HBA's mission to achieve gender equity in healthcare leadership, Mary Stutts is the powerhouse executive rewriting the rules for women's advancement. Her message is clear: Don't lose focus. The work is more critical than ever. "Your development plan is yours alone," Mary insists. "If you don't know where you're going, how will you know when you've arrived?" Chapters 02:13 - From Engineering to Healthcare Leadership 05:31 - Digital Innovation to Genomic Revolution 09:05 - Transforming Lung Cancer Detection 13:39 - Women Leading in Biotech 16:54 - The Reality of Being CEO 20:05 - Advice for Aspiring Women Leaders Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Mary Stutts on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

"I come from a long line of medical doctors... but I myself was driven by things that move fast in terms of technology." From a family of physicians, Susan Tousi chose a different path—one that would eventually revolutionize how we detect cancer. After decades building multi-hundred million dollar businesses at HP and Kodak, digitizing how the world captures and shares memories, she made a leap that surprised many: trading the consumer tech world for the promise of genomic medicine. "Healthcare was moving fairly slowly in terms of technology adoption," Susan recalls. But when Illumina came calling, she saw her chance to change that. As Chief Product Development Officer and later Chief Commercial Officer, she helped drive the cost of human genome sequencing from over $100,000 down to just $100—making the technology accessible in 155 countries worldwide. Now, as CEO of DELFI Diagnostics, Susan is tackling one of healthcare's deadliest challenges: lung cancer kills more people annually than breast, colorectal, and cervical cancers combined—yet 94% of those who should be screened never get tested. Her solution? A simple blood draw that can detect cancer at stage one, powered by AI and whole genome sequencing, at a cost of just a few hundred dollars. "If you can get blood drawn, you can get our test," Susan explains. "These tests should be in the few hundreds of dollars, easily covered by the healthcare system, available to patients without copay. Everyone's cancer should be caught early. It should be an annual process." In this powerful episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Susan also reveals: What happens when you reduce genome sequencing costs from $100,000 to $100 and why it matters for every patient Why blood-based testing will make cancer detection as routine as annual physicals—no radiation, no invasive procedures The surprising ways AI and machine learning are uncovering cancer signals in blood How to build diverse leadership teams naturally What really changes (and doesn't) when you become a biotech CEO Why the hardest CEO decisions are about people and focus, not technology From engineering at HP to revolutionizing digital photography at Kodak to detecting cancer at its earliest stages, Susan's journey proves that the fastest-moving technology innovations can transform the slowest-moving healthcare challenges—when you're willing to take the leap. "There's no greater mission than advancing the improvement of people's healthy lifespan," Susan reflects. "We need women at the table. These are long-term investments. We need to make sure that the diverse population of patients and clinicians who are going to use our tests are represented in the people who develop the tests. That diversity makes us better." A member of the National Academy of Engineering, Susan Tousi is reshaping how we think about cancer detection—making it accessible, affordable, and available anywhere you can have blood drawn. This is the future of healthcare, and it's happening now. Chapters 00:02:13 - From Engineering to Healthcare Leadership 00:05:31 - Digital Innovation to Genomic Revolution 00:09:05 - Transforming Lung Cancer Detection 00:13:39 - Women Leading in Biotech 00:16:54 - The Reality of Being CEO 00:20:05 - Advice for Aspiring Women Leaders Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Susan Tousi on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify 

On the new episode of The 1 Girl Revolution Podcast, we welcome Teena Gooding — a powerhouse instructor and co-founder of Fortis Tactical, lontime law enforcement leader, and founder of the Female Officer Survival School — for a powerful and inspiring conversation about resilience, leadership, and helping women reclaim their power through training and self-defense. This episode continues our special month-long series on SASSGO and the life-changing I Will Survive Weekend. SASSGO is a nonprofit organization that protects women and girls from assault and exploitation through education, self-defense, and empowerment — and Teena is one of the incredible women leading that charge. In this episode, you'll hear: ✨ Teena's inspiring life story and her journey from patrol officer to becoming the only female Captain in the history of the University of South Carolina Police Department; ✨ How her passion for leadership, resilience, and self-defense training led her to launch the Female Officer Survival School, which has empowered thousands of women; ✨ Her current role at Fortis Tactical, where she trains others in self-defense, firearms, and personal protection; ✨ How she works with officers in crisis through peer support and trauma response — and how those same principles apply to empowering everyday women; ✨ The critical importance of training, situational awareness, and knowing how to protect yourself; ✨ Why she believes every woman and girl should be equipped with tools, skills, and confidence to live boldly and fearlessly; ✨ And so much more!

In this episode of Grow a Small Business, host Troy Trewin interviews Nelly Gal, founder of Live Vibrant Wellness & Esthetics, who shares her incredible story of going from $0 to building a $2M+ med spa business in just four years. Nelly opens up about supporting 12 family members back in Cuba, working only three days a week, and how she overcame burnout while scaling her clinic. She dives into the mindset shifts that helped her grow, the power of trusting her team, and why true success means having wealth without sacrificing joy or health. It's a must-listen for entrepreneurs, especially women, seeking inspiration to build a thriving business and life on their own terms. Other Resources: When should a growing small business have a Board of Directors or Advisors?en should a growing small business have a Board of Directors or Advisors? Get a return from an effective Chairperson of a Board Why would you wait any longer to start living the lifestyle you signed up for? Balance your health, wealth, relationships and business growth. And focus your time and energy and make the most of this year. Let's get into it by clicking here. Troy delves into our guest's startup journey, their perception of success, industry reconsideration, and the pivotal stress point during business expansion. They discuss the joys of small business growth, vital entrepreneurial habits, and strategies for team building, encompassing wins, blunders, and invaluable advice. And a snapshot of the final five Grow A Small Business Questions: What do you think is the hardest thing in growing a small business? According to Nelly Gal, the hardest part is changing your own mindset and truly believing in yourself. She says overcoming self-doubt and imposter syndrome is tougher than any operational or financial challenge. What's your favorite business book that has helped you the most? Nelly Gal shares that Traction by Gino Wickman has been one of the most impactful books for her business journey, along with favorites like Atomic Habits and The 4-Hour Workweek. Are there any great podcasts or online learning resources you'd recommend to help grow a small business? Nelly Gal reveals that her biggest resource lately is actually ChatGPT and exploring AI tools. She's also invested in learning platforms like the app Cursive to deepen her knowledge of AI and tech for business. What tool or resource would you recommend to grow a small business? Nelly Gal strongly recommends having a solid CRM like Go High Level, using QuickBooks for finances (handled by her accountant), and above all — mastering AI tools like ChatGPT to save time and unlock new strategies. What advice would you give yourself on day one of starting out in business? Nelly Gal would tell her younger self: keep going, it gets better. Believe in yourself, stay patient, and know that you're far more capable than you think — your hard work will create something that feeds people, brings joy, and changes lives. Book a 20-minute Growth Chat with Troy Trewin to see if you qualify for our upcoming course. Don't miss out on this opportunity to take your small business to new heights! Enjoyed the podcast? Please leave a review on iTunes or your preferred platform. Your feedback helps more small business owners discover our podcast and embark on their business growth journey.     Quotable quotes from our special Grow A Small Business podcast guest: Success isn't a number in your bank account — it's working three days a week, caring for your family, and living without burnout — Nelly Gal Trust your gut when hiring; the wrong person in the wrong seat will cost you more than you can imagine — Nelly Gal Invest in ads, invest in your team, and most importantly, invest in yourself — because your growth is the foundation of your business — Nelly Gal

"You might not have been born for this, but you almost died for it." When Gina Jacobson's husband spoke those words, he captured the profound transformation that turned a stage 4 colon cancer diagnosis into a mission. Given just one to two years to live, Gina didn't just survive—she discovered why work matters so deeply when everything else falls apart. Now, as Program Director for Working with Cancer, she's tackling an uncomfortable truth: there's a massive gap between what well-meaning colleagues want to do and what actually helps. When people don't copy you on emails to "spare" you, when they assume you can't handle meetings, when they reduce you to your diagnosis—the isolation can be as devastating as the disease itself. In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Gina also speaks about: Why "Can I work?" is the second question cancer patients ask after "Will I live?" How manager training can build organizational empathy that extends far beyond cancer it means when 80% of Americans choose to work through cancer treatment Why creating confidence before diagnosis changes everything How simple accommodations can preserve identity during treatment What happens when your biggest pitch becomes helping others through their darkest hour Chapters 02:14 - From Potato Cravings to Stage 4 Diagnosis  03:43 - The Gap Between Intentions and Impact  05:20 - What Organizations Really Need to Do  07:39 - The Workforce Cancer Crisis  08:59 - "You Almost Died for This"  10:37 - Creating Confidence Before Crisis Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Gina Jacobson on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

On the new episode of The 1 Girl Revolution Podcast, we welcome Micki Ridd, Mesa Weidle, and Ellen Welch — three powerhouse SASSGO instructors — for an inspiring and deeply personal conversation about survival, healing, and the mission to empower and protect women and girls. SASSGO is a nonprofit organization that is on a mission to protect women and girls from assault and exploitation through education, self-defense, and community empowerment. This episode continues our special month-long series on SASSGO and the transformative I Will Survive Weekend — and Micki, Mesa, and Ellen each bring their own unique story to the conversation. In this episode, you'll hear: ✨ How Micki, a yoga instructor, was sent to a SASSGO training by her boss and discovered a deeper sense of strength and empowerment — sparking her passion to protect and train other women and girls; ✨ Mesa's courageous journey as a college student and member of the University of Utah track team when her teammate Lauren McCluskey was tragically murdered — and how that trauma led Mesa to SASSGO and a mission to ensure no woman ever feels powerless again; ✨ Ellen's story as a mother whose daughter, Carly, was assaulted in college — and how SASSGO gave her family the tools, hope, and strength to heal and fight back, inspiring Ellen to become an instructor herself; ✨ How each of these women turned trauma into purpose and now travel the country empowering others through SASSGO's life-saving programs; ✨ The critical importance of training, education, and community when it comes to women's safety and freedom; ✨ How you can support this movement and be part of the solution; ✨ And so much more!

Standing at a hospital desk at 17, facing a Hodgkin's disease diagnosis, Rae McMahan heard words that would reshape her entire life: "We don't have your prior authorization on file." That broken moment in a broken system launched a career dedicated to fixing what fails patients every day. Now, as Senior Vice President of Payer Solutions at Prescriptive, Rae is revolutionizing how 260 million Americans access medications—because no one should discover what their life-saving prescription costs only when they reach the pharmacy counter. But her journey wasn't straightforward. Expected to "get married, have kids and stay home," Rae chose a different path—one that led from nearly becoming a physician to mastering the business of healthcare transformation. In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Rae also speaks about: Why pharmacy benefits are the number one utilized benefit and first indicator of health problems How text message prescriptions are disrupting decades of pharmacy confusion What happens when technology costs go down everywhere except healthcare Why connecting lab tests, AI, and genetics could eliminate medication guesswork How to choose your own journey when it doesn't match family expectations What it means to say "no" in a culture that expects women to say "yes" Chapters 04:02 - A Teenager's Cancer Diagnosis Meets a Broken System  06:33 - From Patient to Healthcare Revolutionary  08:22 - The Reverse Technology Paradigm in Healthcare  10:57 - The Magic Wand: Personalized Medicine Without the Guesswork  13:35 - Choosing Your Journey Over Others' Expectations  15:55 - Finding Your Village and Your Voice Guest & Host Links Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Rae McMahan on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

Self-Worth and Leadership: "You will never value you like you. Nobody will value you like you." - Betty CollinsI'm so excited to bring you part two of our Visionary Awards series, an episode all about what it means to be a visionary, or to support one, in today's ever-changing world.I'm joined once again by two incredible guests: Jill Frey and Purba Majumbder, women who are not only visionaries themselves but who have also been deeply impacted by the women who've supported their journeys. In this conversation, we dig into how Jill and Purba stay ahead of industry trends, embrace new technologies like robotics and AI, and make a real difference through projects such as STEM programs for girls.We get honest about the challenges along the way—from navigating self-doubt and skepticism to keeping up with rapid change. And we don't shy away from the truth: sometimes, your biggest obstacle is your own mindset.In this episode, I share my journey, how I learned to step into my role as a visionary leader, often with the help and encouragement of others who saw more in me than I saw in myself. Together, we swap stories, lessons, and practical advice for anyone who wants to pursue a big idea, empower others, or make a lasting impact.Inspiring Moments00:00 "Smart Buildings & Sustainability Goals"03:40 Visionaries and The Future of Robotics07:12 "Finding My Own Vision"12:36 "Inspiring Girls in STEM"16:02 Launching the Women's Initiative17:40 "Challenges of Being a Visionary"21:55 Hybrid Work Revolution Unfolds25:55 Empowering Women in Swift Tech26:42 Tech's Fast-Paced Adaptation Challenge30:56 Empowering Leadership and Influence35:51 Building Confidence and Realizing Potential38:55 Supporting Visionaries and Helping OthersHere are my top 3 takeaways:Embrace Fearlessness & ResilienceBoth Jill and Purba stress the importance of believing in yourself, especially on tough days. Push through doubts, value self-talk, and be your own biggest fan, even when the world isn't quite ready for your vision.Stay Ahead of the CurveVisionaries like Jill and Purba are always thinking 5 years ahead, anticipating industry shifts and adapting technology like AI and automation—not just to keep up, but to lead the change. Support & Elevate Each OtherWhether you're driving the vision or helping implement it, your role matters. Sometimes, all it takes is the right nudge, encouragement, or honest feedback to help someone unlock their full potential.Forward our podcast along to other Inspiring Women in your life.This is THE podcast that advances women toward economic, social, and political achievement. Hosted by Betty Collins, CPA, and Director at Brady Ware and Company. Betty also serves as the Committee Chair for Empowering Women, and Director of the Brady Ware Women's Initiative. Each episode is presented by Brady Ware and Company, committed to empowering women to go their distance in the workplace and at home.For more information, Brady Ware and Company.Remember to follow this podcast on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. And forward our podcast along to other Inspiring Women in your life.Brady Ware and Company

What happens when you realize you've stopped caring about the very people you're meant to serve? For Brenda Munoz, that moment came when a laborer asked her to leave and find someone else to help him. "You're very nice," he said, "but I can tell you're trying to rush this." That wake-up call transformed not just Brenda's career, but how she thinks about leadership itself. Today, as Associate Benefits Director at the Laborers' Fund of Northern California, she oversees benefits for 30,000 workers who build America's infrastructure—and she's reimagining what it means to serve a workforce that's largely male, Hispanic, and often working far from home. In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Brenda also speaks about: Why language barriers and literacy challenges make benefits accessibility a social justice issue How empowering 53 employees (mostly women) creates ripple effects for thousands of families What it means to lead for both the laborers AND the women who serve them Why self-reliance and having a voice are the foundations of workplace empowerment How Hispanic women can transform from "doing the paperwork" to leading the organization What changes when you shift from "What do I want?" to "What will help us become better?" Chapter Markers 02:05 - An Accidental Benefits Career  04:09 - The Counter Call That Changed Everything  05:36 - Choosing Impact Over Comfort  07:21 - Understanding the Laborers: Who Builds America  10:59 - The Stress of Benefits Work  12:31 - Leading for Two Communities  14:19 - From Siloed to United: Creating Vision Together  19:21 - The Power Within: A Message to Hispanic Women Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Brenda Munoz on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify 

Get ready for a magical and deeply personal episode of the Big Crystal Energy Podcast! Host Ashleigh Bodell is joined by her closest friends—Angela Gliatta, Heather Sienel, Dipti Desai, Stacy Baecker, Ann Martella-Janes for a special girls trip recording in Park City, Utah. These powerhouse women, who share a bond forged in physician assistant school and strengthened through years of laughter, heartbreak, ghost hunts, and spiritual exploration, gather to reflect on their journeys and manifesting goals.In this episode, you'll hear tales of haunted restaurants in New Orleans (including ghostly photographs!), life-changing tarot readings, kitchen witchery, and the enduring power of friendship among women. Each guest shares what they're inviting into their lives right now, receiving personalized tarot cards and crystal recommendations to support their intentions.Whether it's manifesting mental stillness, building confidence, or seeking belonging, these soul sisters demonstrate that magic and connection can thrive—even among the science-minded when you lean into curiosity, intuition, and a little woo. So grab your favorite crystal, settle in, and enjoy this heartwarming, spirited journey into friendship, growth, and, of course, Big Crystal Energy!Key Moments: 05:04 Inspiring Feminist and LGBTQ Ally07:21 Wine-Loving Travel Queen10:34 Unbreakable Friendship's Beauty15:04 Heather's Strength and Healing Journey18:27 "Manifesting Abundance and Creativity"19:39 Manifesting Confidence and Growth23:51 "From Science to Shared Growth"25:39 "Rejuvenated by Inspiring Women's Getaway"Meet Ashleigh Bodell – your guide to the mystical and the magical on the Big Crystal Energy Podcast.By day, she's a dedicated orthopedic physician assistant, but by night, she dives deep into the metaphysical, exploring crystals, energy work, and the unseen forces that shape our world. From childhood fascinations with witches and faeries to a transformative rediscovery of crystals, Ashleigh's journey bridges science and spirituality, the practical and the mystical. A mom, a wife, and a seeker, she brings a relatable, no-fluff approach to exploring the “spooky and kooky” side of life. Through Big Crystal Energy, she creates a space where the magical and the mundane coexist—because we don't have to choose between our careers, families, and the call of the unknown.Tune in as she uncovers wisdom from crystal healers, spiritual coaches, and magic makers, inviting you to embrace your own big crystal energy.Connect Ashleigh : https://www.instagram.com/bigcrystalenergypodcast/https://www.instagram.com/mystical.mama.ashSend me any questions or comments you may have and I will answer them on upcoming podcast episodes!! Looking forward to hearing from you!Please message me with any questions or comments. bigcrystalenergypodcast @gmail.com

In this episode of the Working Women Mentor Podcast, we sit down with Kristen Nolan, Senior Client Account Manager at Interview Valet, military spouse, and mother of three, who brings heart, humor, and hard-earned wisdom to the mic. Kristen takes us behind the scenes of a life shaped by movement—literally and figuratively. From constant relocations to growing roots in new communities, she shares how connection, mentorship, and resilience became her anchors.Whether you're leading a team, launching a business, growing your personal brand, or simply navigating change, this episode delivers rich, relatable insights. Learn how to build meaningful relationships, improve your listening skills, and show up with authenticity—even when you're starting over. Kristen also unpacks what makes a great podcast guest, how to overcome fear with preparation, and why niche audiences matter more than numbers.This conversation is a must-listen for anyone ready to grow their influence, build their community, and lead with intention—no matter the industry.Guest Links & Additional Episode Mentions:Website: https://interviewvalet.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristenbnolan/ Want to be a guest? If you have a mentor moment that could inspire someone else DM us GUEST on Instagram, or Apply to be a guest here: https://www.ranialfers.com/apply-to-be-a-guest/Connect with our community on: https://www.instagram.com/workingwomenmentor/

What does it truly take to build a thriving career in Hollywood? Emmy award-winning actress and producer Karina Michel pulls back the curtain on the entertainment industry in this captivating conversation about resilience, authenticity, and creative evolution.Karina's remarkable journey began far from the bright lights of Hollywood—in a small town in England where, at just three years old, she declared to her parents she wanted to be an actress. Through twists of fate, including being discovered by a photographer at an Ohio mall, she built a career spanning over 100 projects, including appearances in Dexter, Entourage, CSI: New York, and Transformers 2.What makes Karina's story particularly compelling is her ability to evolve with changing circumstances. When a writers' strike halted her acting work, she pivoted to producing at a time when female producers were rare. This transition coincided with motherhood, allowing her the flexibility to remain in entertainment while being present for her children. Beyond acting and producing, she has expanded her creative portfolio as a writer for Rolling Stone and Authority Magazine, as well as the host of her podcast, "Coffee with Karina: Entertainment Unfiltered."Throughout our conversation, Karina shares invaluable wisdom for aspiring entertainment professionals. She emphasizes the critical importance of networking, the need to begin local and build experience, and the power of embracing imperfection rather than waiting for ideal conditions. Her definition of boldness—"not giving in to fear in any way"—serves as both her philosophy and her message to listeners hesitant to pursue their creative dreams.Discover why authenticity remains the cornerstone of creative success and how facing your fears might open doors to worlds you never imagined possible. Whether you're pursuing a career in entertainment or seeking inspiration to take a bold step in any field, Karina's insights offer both practical guidance and motivational fuel to move forward with courage.Resources:Podcast Coffee with KarinaKarina on LinkedInSupport the show When you subscribe to the podcast, you are supporting our work's mission, allowing us to continue highlighting successful women in a variety of careers to inspire others helping pay our wonderful editor, Chris, and helping me in paying our hosting expenses.

When Amee Devani watched her mother battle colorectal cancer in Kenya, she witnessed firsthand the stark reality of healthcare inequity. That experience would reshape her entire career trajectory—from investment banking at UBS to founding a digital health startup that's revolutionizing how hospitals manage post-acute care. "I faint when they take my blood," Amee admits with characteristic candor. Yet today, as CEO and Co-founder of WellBeam, she's tackling one of healthcare's most persistent problems: the black box of care that swallows patients after hospital discharge. This conversation with host Laurie McGraw reveals how a chance meeting on a Stanford cycling training ride led to a partnership that's now bridging the dangerous gap between acute and post-acute care. Amee and her co-founder Pascal—both Kenyans who met thousands of miles from home—shared more than a homeland. They shared mothers fighting cancer and a determination to fix a broken system. What started as rejected startup ideas in Stanford surgeons' offices evolved into WellBeam after one crucial conversation with pancreatic surgeon Dr. Brendan Visser. His frustration was clear: exceptional inpatient care followed by total blindness once patients left the hospital. Fax machines. Phone tag. Patients bouncing back to the ER before anyone knew there was a problem. Now, WellBeam serves as the critical infrastructure connecting hospital EMRs with home health, hospice, and skilled nursing facilities. The result? A 20-30% reduction in readmissions and millions in recovered revenue for physicians doing work they couldn't previously bill. In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Amee also discusses: The unexpected value of "having too much fun" at Cambridge and how it shaped her leadership approach Why she left the prestige of investment banking and consulting to work out of a shoebox office in London How catching the "startup bug" at Pavegen prepared her for the healthcare innovation journey The importance of building a village of mentors, especially as a female founder in healthcare Why healthcare's biggest problems aren't glamorous—and why that's exactly where innovation is needed Navigating slow healthcare sales cycles while maintaining startup momentum Leading as a new mother and CEO: ruthless prioritization and trusting your team Chapter Markers 00:54 - Introduction & Background 04:17 - The Stanford Connection & Finding a Co-founder 07:13 - WellBeam's Origin & Solution 11:28 - Business Model & Market Approach 14:06 - Leadership as a Female CEO & New Mother 21:39 - Advice for Aspiring Female Founders Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Amee Devani on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify 

On this week's new episode of The 1 Girl Revolution Podcast, we welcome Chacrice Miles — founder and CEO of Transition 1, 2, 3, Inc., a Detroit-based nonprofit organization that empowers women to rebuild their lives after domestic abuse. Transition 1, 2, 3 provides safe housing, basic necessities, life-skills training, workforce development, and a supportive community that walks alongside women as they reclaim their lives. Chacrice is a survivor, advocate, and changemaker who turned her own story of trauma and survival into a mission to serve others. She knows the pain, fear, and silence that domestic abuse can bring — and she also knows the courage it takes to break free and begin again. What began as her personal journey of healing has grown into a powerful movement to uplift other women, break cycles of abuse, and restore dignity, safety, and hope. Transition 1, 2, 3 is more than a nonprofit — it's a lifeline for women in crisis, and a launchpad for women to step into a new, empowered chapter of life. In this episode, you'll hear: ✨ Chacrice's powerful personal story of survival and what inspired her to launch Transition 1, 2, 3; ✨ The vital services Transition 1, 2, 3 provides to women healing from domestic abuse; ✨ The importance of safe housing, stability, and supportive community; ✨ Stories of women who have found healing, strength, and purpose after abuse; ✨ How trauma-informed care and real opportunities can change lives; ✨ Why second chances matter and how you can be part of someone's new beginning; ✨ And so much more!

What makes this conversation urgent is what's at stake. When people with lower trust in healthcare turn to friends and family instead of medical professionals, when young adults say they'd leave their doctor over political beliefs, when misinformation spreads faster than facts—we're not just facing a communications challenge. We're facing a health crisis. But Courtney, who's spent 15 years bridging policy, advocacy, and communications, sees opportunity in the challenge. Organizations that share accurate information, take visible action on problems, and paint an optimistic future can still build trust. The question is: will they act fast enough? In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Courtney also speaks about: Why your employer might be your most trusted source of health information (especially if you're a woman) How political polarization is breaking the doctor-patient relationship What the shift from polarization to "grievance" means for healthcare Why women care about healthcare affordability 20 points more than men How to communicate health information when no one trusts the media What leaders must do now to rebuild trust before it's too late Chapter Markers 04:05 - From Policy to Trust: A Career Arc 05:32 - The Misinformation Crisis 08:18 - High Trust vs. Low Trust 10:30 - From Polarization to Grievance 12:11 - Building Trust in a Zero-Sum World 14:27 - Women, Employers, and the Trust Gap 16:12 - A Path Forward for Leaders Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Courtney Gray Haupt on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Lailan Bento—a trailblazing real estate broker, community advocate, and proud Native Hawaiian—who brings a unique perspective shaped by politics, culture, and a lifelong commitment to mentorship.Lailan shares her journey from growing up surrounded by the Aloha spirit to transforming lives through real estate and public service. Her story weaves together cultural integrity, leadership with heart, and the role of mastermind communities in elevating personal and professional growth.Whether you're navigating your own career path, building a business, or simply seeking inspiration from women leading with purpose, this episode delivers practical wisdom for all stages of life. From embracing change to staying rooted in values, Lailan reminds us that community connection and mentorship can drive profound impact.Guest Links & Additional Episode Mentions:Website: https://lailanbento.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lailanbento/ Want to be a guest? If you have a mentor moment that could inspire someone else DM us GUEST on Instagram, or Apply to be a guest here: https://www.ranialfers.com/apply-to-be-a-guest/Connect with our community on: https://www.instagram.com/workingwomenmentor/

When Colleen Bowman didn't get into her dietetics internship—twice—she thought her career was over before it began. Instead, that rejection became the catalyst that launched her into becoming a transformative HR leader at one of the most unique companies in America. "I had a little too much fun in college," Colleen admits with a laugh. But that social experience—building networks, connecting with people—turned out to be the foundation of everything that followed. Today, as VP of Human Resources at IAC, she oversees benefits for a portfolio of brands you know and use every day: Angie's List, People Magazine, Food & Wine, and dozens more. This conversation with host Laurie McGraw isn't just about climbing the corporate ladder—it's about how the detours define us. For Colleen, those detours included a boss who told her she wasn't ready for a promotion (spoiler: she was), mentors who took chances on her, and the realization that sometimes you have to stop waiting for opportunities and start creating them. What makes Colleen's leadership philosophy unique? "Empathetic with expectations." She leads with understanding but refuses to treat her team "too preciously." She believes in them too much for that. She sets high standards because she knows they can meet them. Now, as healthcare costs explode and benefits become the single largest line item on corporate balance sheets, Colleen is tackling one of business's biggest challenges: How do you get employees to care about their health before it's a crisis? How do you communicate complex benefits to diverse populations—from magazine editors to home repair professionals? And how do you treat a benefits program like the multi-million dollar business it actually is? In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Colleen also speaks about:  Why saying "yes" to everything early in your career is essential—and when you need to start saying "no" How to build trust and partnerships that actually move the needle in organizations  What happens when benefits become too big for leadership to ignore  Why HR's "seat at the table" debate misses the real point How to navigate the coming healthcare crisis with transparency and trust  What "fake it till you make it" really means for women leaders Chapter Markers 03:37 From Nutrition Dreams to Benefits Reality  08:17 When Your Boss Says You're Not Ready  10:51 Building Relationships as a Leadership Superpower  14:49 Raising Your Hand vs. Reaching for Opportunities  16:24 Empathetic with Expectations: A New Leadership Model  19:38 The Business of Benefits in Divisive Times Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn Connect with Colleen Bowman on LinkedIn Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify

When Karen Lynch became CEO of CVS Health, it was more than a milestone, it was a signal. Millions were watching. She led through the pandemic. She raised wages. She centered the patient. She broke glass ceilings again and again. “I remember the day Karen became CEO,” says host Laurie McGraw. “I think the world stood still for a minute. I smiled. I took notice. And so did everyone else.” The accolades poured in: Forbes Most Powerful Women, Fortune's Most Admired. But the impact went far beyond headlines. This conversation isn't just about what Karen accomplished at the top—it's about the experiences that shaped her long before she got there, and the values driving how she leads today. Like many leaders, Karen's path was forged in her beginnings. For her, those beginnings were marked by unimaginable loss: losing her mother to suicide at age 12, and just a decade later, losing the aunt who raised her. That grief left an indelible mark—a sense of urgency to fix a healthcare system she had experienced not as a leader, but as someone failed by it. That lived experience has been her North Star. From her early days in finance to leading one of the largest healthcare organizations in the world, Karen has consistently asked: What does the patient need? And how can we make it simpler?  As a leader, she learned that courage isn't a talking point, it's a practice. And sometimes, it means making a hard decision that costs you. When her tenure at CVS ended, it wasn't scandal. It wasn't a failure. It was a choice, grounded in accountability. Because real leadership isn't just about celebrating the wins—it's about owning the moments that hurt. Now in a chapter of reinvention, Karen is clear: she's not stepping back, she's stepping into purpose. From helping future CEOs find their voice, to launching a women's leadership institute, to urging healthcare leaders to rebuild public trust before it's too late, she is focused on impact over position. The title may be different. The mission is not. In this episode of Inspiring Women with Laurie McGraw, Karen also speaks about: What would healthcare look like if we designed it around the patient? Can simplicity heal what complexity has broken? How do we rebuild public trust in healthcare—and what happens if we don't? How can we better prepare the next generation of women leaders? Is technology the single most powerful lever for healthcare transformation? What does it take to navigate reinvention with optimism, purpose, and grace? Thank you Karen Lynch. You are an Inspiring Woman. Chapters 03:11 - From Tragedy to Healthcare Leadership 05:42 - Patient-Centered Philosophy 08:46 - Pandemic Response and Transformational Change 10:02 - Mentorship and Women's Leadership 14:57 - Accountability and Resilience in Leadership 22:53 - Technology Revolution and Giving Back Guest & Host Links Connect with Laurie McGraw on LinkedIn About Karen Lynch Connect with Inspiring Women Browse Episodes | LinkedIn | Instagram | Apple | Spotify This episode of Inspiring Women was recorded at the WBL Summit, a leadership, networking, and professional development conference for WBL members that takes place each spring. WBL is a network of 1500+ senior executive women in healthcare who convene to share ideas, make valuable connections, and solve business challenges. WBL's mission is to connect and support our members in advancing their careers and impact on our industry.

On this week's episode of The 1 Girl Revolution Podcast, we welcome Kristi Wells and Brittany Dunn — national anti-trafficking advocates and the powerhouse co-founders of The Safe House Project, a nonprofit organization that's transforming the fight against human trafficking in America. Founded in 2017, The Safe House Project was born out of Kristi and Brittany's shared passion to end human trafficking and offer safety, healing, and hope to survivors. Inspired by the Underground Railroad and the legacy of safe havens, they created a national movement to build safe homes and restore freedom to survivors across the country. Today, The Safe House Project has become a national leader in the anti-trafficking space — providing over 227,000 safe nights for survivors each year, launching safe houses across the U.S., and mobilizing communities with tools, education, and action steps to end trafficking for good. In this episode, you'll hear:

On this episode of the California Now Podcast, host Soterios Johnson chats with Olympic gold medalist, bestselling author, and Bay Area native Kristi Yamaguchi. The figure skating icon reflects on her childhood in Fremont, her first time on the ice at a Hayward mall, and her unforgettable 1992 World Championship win in Oakland. “It truly was a huge homecoming,” she says, recounting the joy of competing on local ice surrounded by family, friends, and longtime supporters. Yamaguchi also discusses her nonprofit, Always Dream, which promotes early childhood literacy through book donations, digital reading tools, and personalized coaching for underserved families. “Reading does truly unlock the ability to dream,” she shares. She also opens up about writing her bestselling children's book Dream Big, Little Pig and the honor of being immortalized as a Barbie doll in Mattel's Inspiring Women series. A proud Californian, Yamaguchi highlights some of her favorite local experiences, including hiking near Mount Diablo, catching a musical in San Francisco, and cheering on the San Jose Sharks. “Oracle Park, if you're a baseball fan—or even if you're not—you've got to go visit and you've got to watch some of those splash landings from the home runs,” she says. Finally, she recommends her favorite local rinks for skaters of all skill levels.

For Dr. Devaa Haley Mitchell, transformation isn't just a concept—it's a way of life. She's dedicated to helping people reconnect with their deepest selves, unlock their leadership gifts, and step into their full potential. As the Co-Founder of The Shift Network, a multiple 7-figure educational platform, Devaa has helped bring life-changing programs to over 3.2 million students worldwide.  In addition, Devaa was Founder and Host of the Inspiring Women with Soul series, which served over 130,000 women from more than 160 countries. Through her private practice, Devaa supports her clients with Soul and Strategy Coaching to work on both the “inner” work of feminine leadership as well as the “outer” work of visionary strategy and implementation. She also offers a comprehensive Midlife Chrysalis process to support women in navigating the many changes that happen in midlife.  Devaa's website is: https://devaa.com Dynamic Manifestation Video Series with DevaaSign up at www.devaa.com for free instant access to her Dynamic Manifestation Video Series — a powerful 3-part journey to help you consciously create the life your soul is longing for. This transformational series will guide you to align your energy, elevate your vision, and take inspired action toward your most radiant life. To register, scroll down below the header, and you'll see the sign-up form. Website: www.heatherthomson.com Social Media: IG: https://www.instagram.com/iamheathert/                     You Tube: https://youtube.com/@iamheathert?si=ZvI9l0bhLfTR-qdo SPONSOR:  ZBiotics Company: Go to www.zbiotics.com/HEATHER  and use HEATHER at checkout for 15% off any first time orders of ZBiotics probiotics. ZBiotics has a 100% money-back guarantee, so if you're unsatisfied for any reason they will refund your money, no questions asked. Thank you ZBiotics for sponsoring this episode.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices