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Today, I'm joined by an amazing friend and thought leader, Kristin Thomas. Kristin is the Founder and CEO of Marble Collective, an AI-powered platform that connects, amplifies, and centralizes the digital legacies of remarkable women leaders so they can inspire, be role models, and create impact at scale. Backed by 300 women leaders and 70+ investors, Marble launches publicly this fall. In this episode, we'll explore: How resilience and adaptability shape entrepreneurial success Why listening is as powerful as speaking for influential voices The importance of following people, not just platforms, to create deeper connection Kristin's current favorites: Book: Untamed by Glennon Doyle, Speaker: Dr. Jane Goodall, Podcasts: Venture F, The Angel Next Door, & The Big Talk More from Kristin Thomas Website: http://marblecollective.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kristinthomas_ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-thomas-1092a01b More from Tricia Get your copy of my latest book, Being Smart is Stupid Join me LIVE for my Complimentary Monthly Workshop Explore my content and follow me on YouTube Follow me on Instagram Connect with me on Facebook Connect with me on LinkedIn Visit my website at TriciaBrouk.com
Payments look like pure software until you move countries, get hit with fraud, or watch a “guaranteed” settlement date slip. That's where the real story starts, and it's why I loved talking with Kristin Reischel, Senior Director of Solutions and Partner Marketing at Rapyd, for our Women Leaders in Payments Month series sponsored by Payroc.Kristin shares a refreshingly honest career path: Boulder, Colorado roots, a fine art degree, a pivot into computer science, then early years at IBM where every hour was billable and accountability was immediate. From there, she follows what energizes her most, working closer to customers, shaping stories, and eventually landing in payment product marketing. We talk about what product marketing means in fintech and how it connects product teams, partners, and real business needs, from local payment methods to faster money movement.Our theme is “the future is human,” and Kristin makes it real. Automation, AI, and embedded payments keep expanding, but trust is still built by people who test systems, respond when things break, and make judgment calls when fraud and risk show up. She also unpacks the cultural side of global payments, comparing credit habits in the US with the UK's banking realities, Germany's cash preference, and the mobile payments leadership seen across Africa and parts of Southeast Asia.We close with what she's watching next: stablecoins, crypto adoption on familiar card rails, and the convergence of AI with agentic commerce and microtransactions. If you care about the future of payments, fintech trust, and practical leadership lessons, this conversation delivers.
In this episode of Personal Injury Marketing Minute, host Lindsey Busfield is joined by Sarah Walton, a business strategist and coach, to explore the concept of high capacity women leaders and their impact on law firms. Sarah explains the physiological and psychological aspects that enable women to multitask effectively and discusses the importance of recognizing and harnessing this capacity without falling into the trap of high-functioning codependence. They delve into the significance of delegation in business, emphasizing how it can prevent burnout and enhance productivity. The conversation also covers practical strategies for law firm owners to implement healthy habits and mindset shifts that lead to sustainable business growth and personal fulfillment. Listeners will gain insights into improving their leadership skills, fostering a supportive work environment, and achieving a better work-life balance. Key Timestamps: 00:01 –Introduction 0:17 –Defining High Capacity Women Leaders 1:26 –The Science Behind Multitasking 2:18 – High Functioning Codependence Explained 3:34 – The Double-Edged Sword of High Capacity 5:56 – Reframing the A Game for Sustainability 7:00 – Importance of Delegation in Law Firms 9:02 – Delegating for Business Efficiency 10:10 – Creating Jobs and Wealth Flow 12:19 – Eliminating Business Lag 14:18 – Leadership Through Delegation 16:00 – Business Needs vs. Personal Preferences 17:12 – Hiring the Right People 19:47 – Implementing the 80% Rule 22:05 – Mindset Shifts for Business Success 24:03 – Starting the Day with a Slow Morning 26:12 – Connecting with People for Business Growth See all episodes or subscribe to the Personal Injury Marketing Minute here: https://optimizemyfirm.com/podcasts/. What Defines High-capacity Women Leaders In The Business World? High-capacity women leaders are individuals who can multitask effectively due to physiological traits, such as more connective tissue between the brain’s hemispheres, allowing them to handle multiple tasks simultaneously. This ability often leads them to function at high levels consistently. However, this capability can sometimes lead to high-functioning codependence, where they overextend themselves, neglecting self-care and delegation. Recognizing and managing this balance is crucial for sustainable success. How Can Women Leaders Avoid Burnout While Maintaining High Performance? To avoid burnout, women leaders should recognize that while they are capable of multitasking, it is not necessary to function at high levels constantly. It’s essential to delegate tasks and set boundaries to prevent becoming overwhelmed. By acknowledging the need for support and avoiding the trap of trying to do everything themselves, leaders can manage their responsibilities more effectively and maintain a healthier work-life balance. Why Is Delegation Important For Business Leaders, Particularly In Law Firms? Delegation is critical because it allows leaders to focus on the aspects of their business they are passionate about and excel in. By delegating tasks that are not their strengths, leaders can reduce inefficiencies and prevent burnout. This approach not only fosters a more dynamic and efficient workplace but also enables leaders to perform at their best, contributing to the overall success of the business. How Can Law Firm Leaders Effectively Delegate Tasks? Law firm leaders can delegate effectively by understanding that they are not their business; the business is an entity on its own. Leaders should focus on what the business needs rather than personal preferences for task completion. By hiring people who excel in specific areas and allowing them to take ownership of their roles, leaders can ensure tasks are completed efficiently, freeing them to focus on critical areas of the firm. What Should Leaders Consider When Hiring To Ensure Effective Delegation? When hiring, leaders should adopt the mantra “hire hard, manage easy.” It’s important to invest time in finding the right fit for the business and then provide comprehensive training and clear SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) to guide new hires. This ensures that tasks are completed to the desired standard without the leader having to micromanage, allowing the business to run smoothly and efficiently. How Can Law Firm Owners Incorporate Mindset Shifts And Habits For Better Business Outcomes? Law firm owners can benefit from adopting mindset shifts such as the Pareto Principle, focusing on the most impactful tasks, and maintaining an 80% capacity to prevent burnout. They should also implement daily habits like starting their day with a slow morning routine, reflecting on personal and business priorities. These practices can enhance productivity, improve mental clarity, and lead to greater satisfaction and success in their professional lives. What Practical Advice Can Law Firm Owners Implement To Improve Their Leadership And Business Operations? Law firm owners should remember that they matter and that their actions have significant impacts. By prioritizing self-care, setting clear goals, and maintaining connections with clients and colleagues, leaders can ensure they are operating at their best. 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Payments don't fail as an abstract metric. They fail for a freelancer waiting to get paid, a small business trying to accept the locally normal method, or a customer who gets told “we don't support how you pay.” That's why our conversation with Clarice Lehman, Alternative Payments Operations Lead at DLocal, keeps landing on one theme: the future of payments has to stay human, even as the industry gets more automated, embedded, and AI-driven. We start with Clarice's journey from Uruguay to fintech, including a pivotal dinner-party moment that redirected her MBA path to MIT, followed by consulting at BCG, and a return to DLocal to lead strategy and operations across alternative payment methods. We unpack what “APMs” really include (instant payments, wallets, cash-based options, BNPL operations, card-present initiatives, and crypto operations) and why delivering a consistent cross-border payments experience is hard when every market's infrastructure looks different underneath. Then we get practical about leadership and trust: why smarter systems can't mean more exclusion, what transparency should look like when AI makes decisions, and why reliability and accountability are non-negotiable when downtime or a wrong decline hits. Clarice also shares the trend she's most excited about: AI-driven credit and underwriting using alternative data, and how that can expand access to capital for consumers and SMBs that traditional credit bureaus overlook. If you care about emerging markets, payments strategy, fintech leadership, and building products that actually include people, this one is for you.
Part of the City Club's 2026 Outdoor Summer Series + America 250 Ohio SeriesrnWomen are at the heart of many of America's largest movements. We cannot talk about abolition without Harriet Tubman; voting rights without Susan B. Anthony; or civil rights without Rosa Parks. The American promise of liberty and self-determination was strengthened by generations of women who shaped our communities, closed gaps, and redefined what civic engagement looked like.rnrnToday, women are succeeding and leading in roles in every sector of American life, bringing a unique perspective that continues to fuel innovation and growth. At the same time, work is underway to address persistent challenges like access to paid leave, gender-based violence, and pay and wealth gaps-both here in Cleveland and across the nation.rnrnAs we mark the nation's 250th birthday, the City Club's 2026 Outdoor Summer Series WE THE PEOPLE will dive into topics centering our communities, organizations, and the very people who help our democracy thrive.rnrnJoin us as we hear from leading women in organizations that are dedicated to serving, celebrating, and empowering women in our nation's past, present, and future!
Negotiation is not about becoming louder, tougher, or more forceful. It is about remembering your worth, doing your homework, and stepping into the driver's seat of your career. Amy sits down with Keri-Lynne (KL) Shaw, founder of The Salary Bump, to unpack the beliefs, fears, and money stories that keep people from asking for what they truly desire. From pay equity and networking to storytelling, promotions, exit packages, and the courage to advocate for yourself, KL shares practical tools for negotiating with confidence and clarity. This conversation is a powerful reminder that hoping is not a strategy, courage is an action, and no one is coming to rescue your career but you can absolutely learn how to lead it. Additional Resources: Connect with KL on LinkedIn Learn more about The Salary Bump Take the Ego Assessment - enter your email in the pop-up to get started! Subscribe to Conscious Habit on YouTube! Join the "Conscious Conversations" Community! Sign Up for the Conscious Habit Newsletter Connect with Amy on LinkedIn Learn more about Conscious Habit Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network Key Takeaways: Negotiation begins with knowing your worth. Hoping is not a career strategy. Courage is an action, not a feeling. Networks shape opportunity, confidence, and career growth. Pay conversations require preparation, not panic.
Payments are getting smarter and more automated, but the real question is simpler: are we making life easier for the humans behind every transaction? For Women Leaders in Payments Month, we're joined by Kimling Lam, Chief Marketing Officer at Fortis, to talk about what “the future is human” actually looks like inside fintech, embedded payments, and modern go-to-market teams. Special thanks to Payroc for sponsoring this year's series and supporting the advancement of women across the payments industry. Kimling shares her career journey from Wellesley and broadcast journalism to TV news reporting, software sales, and leadership roles across major payments brands before stepping into her current CMO role. Along the way, we dig into how strong storytelling becomes a growth advantage in fintech marketing, why CEO sponsorship and networks can change a career trajectory, and what it really takes to turn ambiguity into strategy that drives pipeline and revenue. We also explore the practical impact of generative AI and large language models on marketing workflows. Kimling explains why marketers are shifting from writing everything manually to orchestrating faster, more scalable work streams while protecting brand voice and applying human judgment. From there, we zoom out to B2B payments and accounts receivable, including the pain of “swivel chair accounting,” the importance of human-centered design, and why trust in payments feels invisible until something breaks. If you care about customer experience, embedded finance, women in fintech leadership, and where AI helps or hurts, you'll get a lot from this conversation.
What do you do when you're offered an opportunity that will definitely stretch you but also scares you, and your first instinct is to hand it to someone else, because you feel you're not quite qualified? That's the moment we unpack in this interview with Ai Asakura, Alumni Program Manager for the TOMODACHI Initiative at the U.S.-Japan Council, who I met at an expat meetup in Fukuoka this spring — one with that same eclectic, cross-cultural energy as New York City, where you connect peer to peer with people from all walks of life. Ai is bicultural like me, and she's spent her career building bridges — between Japan and the U.S., and between mentees and the mentors who help shape their paths. But it took her some time to recognize being bicultural as her own superpower, and when she did, it empowered her to say yes to an opportunity most people would've handed to someone with a bigger title.Key TakeawaysLeadership is not a job title: You can be a leader as a mentor, a community organizer, a parent, or a volunteer—impact and initiative matter more than status.Networking is people-to-people connection, not transaction: Powerful “networking” often looks like simply being curious about others and building genuine human relationships.Bicultural identity is a superpower: Living between cultures, as Ai does between Japan and the U.S., creates unique insight, empathy, and the ability to act as a bridge.Opportunities often arrive through community: Ai's major career transitions—from hospitality to translation to TOMODACHI—came through relationships and community involvement.Saying yes can be the real “risky conversation”: Accepting the invitation to represent her region as a mentor felt risky to Ai, but turning it down would have meant betraying the message she gives her mentees about stepping up.Operation TOMODACHI to TOMODACHI Initiative: The humanitarian response to the 2011 Great East Japan earthquake evolved into a long-term leadership and exchange program impacting over 10,000 alumni.Exposure to hope changes trajectories: Young people from disaster-affected regions returned from U.S. programs with renewed hope, agency, and a desire to rebuild their communities.Community work can clarify your own identity: Serving Japanese communities in the U.S. helped Ai reconnect to her Japanese roots and recognize her role as a cultural bridge.Curiosity is a core leadership habit: Being genuinely interested in people—their stories, cultures, and experiences—naturally expands your world and your opportunities.There is still hope in the world: Despite global uncertainty, Ai emphasizes that human-to-human connection, especially across cultures, is a powerful source of hope.FeaturedConnect with Ai Asakura on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ai-asakura0977/Learn about the US-Japan Council: https://www.usjapancouncil.org/Connect with Jamie Lee on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leejieunjamie/Learn about 1:1 executive coaching with Jamie Lee here: https://www.jamieleecoach.com/applyText me your thoughts on this episode!Enjoy the show? Don't miss an episode, listen and subscribe via Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Leave me a review in Apple Podcasts. Connect with meBook a free hour-long consultation with me. You'll leave with your custom blueprint to confidence, and we'll ensure it's a slam-dunk fit for you before you commit to working with me 1:1. Connect with me on LinkedIn Email me at jamie@jamieleecoach.com
When the Southern Baptist Convention (SBC) made headlines over women in pastoral ministry, social media quickly filled with opinions, assumptions, and strong reactions. But as followers of Christ, how should we respond when theological disagreements arise?In this episode, we use the recent SBC conversation as a case study to explore how Christian leaders can become the kind of leader who handles God's Word faithfully and God's people graciously. My prayer is that this conversation equips you not only to think more biblically, but to lead more like Christ.If this episode encouraged you, would you take a moment to leave a review? It helps more women in ministry find the show and be encouraged in their walk with Christ and leadership in the local church.Connect with Narcely:Website: www.NarcelyRuiz.comInstagram: @narcelyruiz / @upstreampursuit If you're a woman serving in ministry and you want support in growing in biblical confidence, leadership, and healthy ministry rhythms, I'd love to connect with you.
Payments are getting faster and more automated, but the hardest part still isn't the tech. It's trust. We talk with Rachel Costello, VP of Platform Growth at Maverick, about why the future of payments is human and how leaders can keep empathy, judgment, and real partnership at the center while AI and automation reshape everything around us.Rachel shares her career path into fintech, from early work in ad tech and e-commerce to revenue operations and growth roles, and why payments became the perfect place to combine strategy, go-to-market, and customer impact. We also dig into what she's building today: strategic partnerships, embedded payment strategy, and the infrastructure that helps software platforms deliver seamless commerce experiences.A big theme is embedded payments and embedded finance, and what it actually means when a software platform becomes a commerce platform. We break down the customer journey, preferred payment methods, and the practical outcomes businesses want: less friction, faster scaling, and simpler ways to get paid. Along the way, Rachel makes the case for fundamentals, customers don't buy buzzwords like AI or APIs, they buy the results those tools deliver.We wrap with leadership lessons, mentorship, and advice for the next generation of women in payments: raise your hand before you feel ready, get comfortable being uncomfortable, and choose a culture that fits how you work and grow.
If you've ever looked in the mirror and felt disconnected from the person staring back… or found yourself using food, control, or restriction to cope with emotions you didn't know how to process, this episode is for you.In this raw, unfiltered solo episode, KB opens up about something she's kept close for a long time: her complicated relationship with her body. From comparing herself to her gymnast sisters as a kid, to squeezing into a competition swimsuit that tore at a league meet, to running away to Thailand after an abusive relationship, this is the story of a girl who used food to cope, control, and survive.This isn't a clinical conversation about eating disorders. It's a deeply personal account of disordered eating, body dysmorphia, and the slow, ongoing work of learning to respect yourself, not punish yourself.You'll discover:How childhood chaos and emotional dysregulation shaped KB's earliest relationship with foodThe difference between self-punishment and self-respect at the tableWhy restriction, bingeing, and over-exercising are all rooted in the same woundWhat it looks like to build structure around food and movement from a place of healing, not fearWhy KB is done hiding, and why she's sharing this nowThis one is for anyone who has ever looked in the mirror and not recognized the person looking back. You are not alone, and you are not bad.If this episode moved you, share it with someone who needs to hear it. And if you haven't already, follow Toxic Free with KB so you never miss an episode.
A failed payment is never just a technical error. It's a customer stuck at checkout, a merchant losing revenue, and a moment where trust is either reinforced or broken. We sit down with Alexandra Dolia, co-founder and COO of Akurateco, to talk about what payments leadership looks like when you refuse to treat the industry like a black box and you build teams that can explain what's happening end to end.Alexandra shares her path from Ukraine to a formative year in the United States as a teenage exchange student, then into fintech almost by accident through a contact center role. That early frontline experience shaped how she thinks about customer support, payment failures, and operational details that quietly define the client experience. We also unpack the leadership philosophy that came from working in a culture where knowledge is shared, not guarded, and how she's applied it by developing people through structured internal education.From there, we get practical about the future of payments: embedded checkout, automation, and why “the future is human” isn't anti-technology. It's a reminder that technology should sharpen judgment, not replace it. Alexandra breaks down how companies earn trust through transparency, honesty when things go wrong, and consistency over time, then points to a major shift reshaping global commerce: the fast-growing mix of alternative payment methods, from wallets to account-to-account and local rails, and the rising need for payment orchestration.
Hello and welcome to the Women Leaders in Sports Podcast. I'm your host, Patti Phillips, CEO of Women Leaders in Sports. Today, I'm joined by Nadia Rawlinson, Co-Owner and Operating Chairman of the Chicago Sky. As the WNBA prepares to spotlight Chicago during All-Star Weekend, we're excited to sit down with one of the leaders helping drive that momentum. Nadia has built an extraordinary career spanning technology, media, entertainment, and financial services, with leadership roles at companies including Slack, Google, Live Nation, and American Express. A Stanford graduate and Harvard MBA, she also serves on several corporate and nonprofit boards while leading business operations, strategy, and government relations for the Chicago Sky. What makes Nadia especially compelling is her ability to speak the language of business while candidly sharing what it really takes to lead at the highest levels. In this episode, Nadia shares her unconventional journey into sports ownership, lessons on building high-performing cultures, and why great leaders prioritize action over perfection. Keep listening for more leadership insights from Nadia. And join us both in Chicago this October for the Women Leaders in Sports National Convention! We Are Women Leaders.
Payments look instant and invisible until something goes wrong. That's when you find out whether you're working with a faceless system or a team you can actually trust. We sit down with Alex McCandless, EVP of Marketing and Training at Payroc, to get specific about what “people powered” really means in fintech and why transparency and access to real decision makers still matter in a world of automated transactions. Alex shares her career journey from the agency world into payment processing, plus what she learned scaling from a scrappy startup environment into a platform shaped by 27 acquisitions. We talk about the challenge of bringing many brands under one Payroc umbrella without forcing a one-size-fits-all playbook, and how culture integration requires real discovery, humility, and a willingness to borrow the best tools and processes from every team. We also dig into the future of payments and the role of AI in fintech. Alex makes the case for AI-assisted operations, not AI-powered relationships, and connects that to embedded finance, SaaS, and the push toward more holistic experiences across card-present and card-not-present payments. On trust and security, she explains why “secure” should be baseline, why trust is earned one transaction at a time, and how the 1% edge cases can define your reputation. We close with what she's watching next, including agentic commerce, machine-to-machine payments, and how marketing teams are adapting for LLM search and more qualified inbound leads.
You chose this field for a reason. Do you remember what it was?In this final episode of the summer series, Dr. Nicole gets personal. She shares the story of how she fell in love with human resources — and how years of overachieving, overperforming, and chasing external validation quietly stole the joy that brought her to the work in the first place. And how she got it back.This episode is not about working less or caring less. It is about reconnecting with the reason you started — and understanding why joy is not a luxury. It is one of the most powerful leadership assets you have.Resources mentioned:
What happens when the playbook that helped you grow is no longer enough for where business is headed?Today on Women Leaders on the Move, Natalie Benamou encourages leaders to rethink how they are growing, leading, and making decisions in the AI era. Natalie shares how to future-proof your business by asking better questions, looking beyond the “one solution” mindset, and identifying the capabilities needed to create growth now. Walk away with a clear idea how to evaluate what still works, what needs to change, and where human judgment matters most. Get a behind the scenes of CoLab3, a new HerCsuite® framework designed to bring three entrepreneurs together to align complementary strengths, create new business ideas, and generate revenue in a 90-day sprint.This episode gives a multiplier effect strategy and will help leaders, founders, board directors, and executives who are ready to remove the silos to success and start building what's NEXT with a new playbook in the AI era.Keep shining your light bright. The world needs you.About Natalie BenamouNatalie is an executive AI leader, speaker and Founder of HerCsuite®. HerCsuite® is a leadership network where women build what's next. Our members land board roles, grow businesses, lead the AI conversation, and live their best portfolio career with our programs. Join us at HerCsuite.com, or connect with host Natalie Benamou on LinkedIn.
What if the secret to growing on social media isn't chasing trends—but becoming more authentically yourself? In this special live conversation from the She Believed She Could™ Summit, Allison Walsh sits down with three of today's most influential digital creators—Noelle Schnacky, Ella Schnacky, and Kristin Schnacky—to unpack what it really takes to build a personal brand that creates lasting impact. With millions of followers across TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and beyond, the Schnacky sisters have built thriving online communities rooted in authenticity, faith, purpose, and genuine connection. In this candid conversation, they pull back the curtain on the strategies that have fueled their growth, the lessons they've learned along the way, and why staying true to your values will always outperform chasing the algorithm. Whether you're an entrepreneur, creator, speaker, nonprofit leader, coach, or simply someone looking to show up more confidently online, this episode is packed with practical, actionable advice to help you grow your audience, strengthen your personal brand, and create content that truly resonates. In this episode, you'll learn: How to discover your authentic voice and stand out online without pretending to be someone you're not Why knowing your identity matters more than chasing algorithms How vulnerability creates meaningful connection and builds loyal communities The importance of consistency and realistic content planning How to identify your niche and create content people actually want to follow The role of storytelling in growing an engaged audience How to use social media insights to guide your content strategy Why engagement and transformation matter more than vanity metrics Tips for repurposing content across multiple platforms How to avoid creator burnout through batching and scheduling Best practices for Reels, TikTok, YouTube Shorts, and cross-platform growth Ways creators monetize their platforms through brand partnerships, affiliate marketing, live streaming, and YouTube How to protect your personal brand by saying "no" to opportunities that aren't aligned with your values Memorable Takeaways "Behind every like, view, and follow is a real person." "What you feed grows. What you starve dies." "You don't have to share everything, but your story is often what creates the deepest connection." "Success isn't measured by followers. It's measured by transformation." Meet Our Guests Noelle Schnacky is a speaker, content creator, and former Miss Florida's Teen who is passionate about helping the next generation embrace authentic confidence, build meaningful connections, and use their platforms to create purpose-driven influence. Ella Schnacky is a Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter, and digital creator whose music and online presence have inspired millions around the world. Through faith-filled storytelling and creative expression, she encourages others to lead with authenticity and use their gifts to make a lasting impact. Kristin Schnacky is a content creator, entrepreneur, and speaker who has cultivated a thriving online community rooted in faith, family, relationships, and honest storytelling. Through her relatable content and genuine transparency, she empowers others to build meaningful connections and live with authenticity. Whether you're building a business, growing a personal brand, or simply looking to make a greater impact online, this conversation will inspire you to lead with purpose, show up authentically, and build a community that lasts. --- Positioned for Partnerships™ Mini Course - Turn your platform into a revenue-generating brand opportunity—without needing a massive following. Learn how to position your brand, create a high-converting media kit, and confidently pitch partnerships so brands instantly understand your value.
As we head into the summer, Stephanie Mitton reflects on the season, shares a personal update about navigating perimenopause while balancing leadership, motherhood, ADHD, and chronic migraines, and offers a preview of what's ahead for WOMENdontDOthat. She also shares opportunities to stay connected over the summer, including vault episodes, a free AI workshop, and ways listeners can help shape the future of the podcast. This episode covers: Looking back at the conversations and guests from this season Stephanie's honest experience with early perimenopause symptoms Balancing leadership, parenting teenagers, and personal health Why slowing down can be one of the hardest leadership skills A free AI introduction for women coming this summer How listener feedback will help shape the future of WOMENdontDOthat What listeners can expect from the podcast this fall As always, this episode is a reminder that success is about more than achievement. Taking care of yourself, asking for support, and making space for what matters are all part of building a meaningful life and career. Books Mentioned The New Menopause — The New Menopause — Mary Claire Haver https://www.patreon.com/womendontdothat Instagram - http://www.instagram.com/womendontdothat/ TikTok- http://www.tiktok.com/@womendontdothat Blog- https://www.womendontdothat.com/blog Podcast- https://www.womendontdothat.com/podcast Newsletter- https://www.beaconnorthstrategies.com/contactwww.womendontdothat.com YouTube - http://www.youtube.com/@WOMENdontDOthat How to find Stephanie Mitton: Twitter/X- https://twitter.com/StephanieMitton LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephaniemitton/ beaconnorthstrategies.com TikTok- https://www.tiktok.com/@stephmitton Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/stephaniemitton/ Interested in sponsorship? Contact us at hello@womendontdothat.com Produced by Duke & Castle Our Latest Blog: https://www.womendontdothat.com/post/i-don-t-do-resolutions-i-do-this-perfect-for-busy-women Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Payments are getting smarter, faster, and more automated, but the stakes are still deeply human. I sit down with Gunita Bindra, CRO of Paymode New Business Development at Bottomline, to talk about what it takes to lead in fintech when AI is reshaping how decisions get made and how money moves. Along the way, Ganita shares her path from computer science in India to roles in software engineering, solution consulting, product management, and now leading sales and partnerships in the B2B payments world. We explore what “the future is human” means when technology can feel like it's in the driver's seat. Gunita lays out why leaders in payments need to embrace change while building for enduring excellence, not just short-term success. We also get practical about the customer experience behind every transaction: how product-minded empathy shows up in sales conversations, why understanding small business payment pain matters, and how transparency turns into trust when your platform can clearly explain where a payment is, why it's there, and what happens next. Then we look forward at agentic commerce and the idea of payments that can route themselves with humans still in the loop. Gunita offers a grounded take on job evolution, the skills that stay valuable, and the mindset shift leaders need right now. We close with direct advice for women entering payments and fintech: network early, ask for what you want, build a business case, and learn negotiation without apology.
In this episode, we're returning to Scripture to discover Jesus' definition of leadership. Together, we'll explore why biblical leadership is different and why it matters for women serving in ministry.This episode also marks a new chapter for The Upstream Pursuit. While our heart remains the same, we'll be more intentional about helping women serving in ministry grow in Christ-like character, leadership skills and ministry rhythms. In this episode, you'll learn:Why leadership must be defined by Scripture, not culture.What Jesus teaches about greatness in Matthew 20.How to begin stewarding the responsibilities God has entrusted to you with humility, wisdom, and confidence.Whether you have a ministry title or faithfully serve behind the scenes, this episode is an invitation to let Christ shape the way you lead.Scripture: Matthew 20:20–28If this episode encouraged you, would you take a moment to leave a review? It helps more women in ministry find the show and be encouraged in their walk with Christ and leadership in the local church.Connect with Narcely:Website: www.NarcelyRuiz.comInstagram: @narcelyruiz / @upstreampursuit If you're a woman serving in ministry and you want support in growing in biblical confidence, leadership, and healthy ministry rhythms, I'd love to connect with you.
You have been doing everything right. Showing up polished. Staying composed. Keeping it professional. But what if the thing you have been calling professionalism is actually fear in a blazer? In this episode, Dr. Nicole names one of the most common — and most costly — patterns she sees in ambitious Black women leaders: protection masquerading as professionalism. It looks like discipline. It looks like boundaries. But underneath it, it is self-protection. And it is quietly blocking the very promotions and opportunities you are working so hard to earn. In this episode you'll hear: How the strict rules of professionalism that Gen X and older millennial Black women learned became a form of self-protection over timeWhy hiding in plain sight is one of the most sophisticated career killers there isThe real reason companies don't promote people they don't know — and what that means for youYou cannot be invisible and promoted at the same time. This episode is the moment you stop pretending you can. Resources mentioned:
How does one moment, turn into a movement? This is a special moment for Women Leaders on the Move and host Natalie Benamou. Tune in to this interview with Shelley Zalis, the CEO and Founder of the Female Quotient to hear their connection to CES and the 'power of the pack'.Get an insider view on the 80 events the Female Quotient hosts globally- and how you can join us in Chicago in July!This conversation is for every woman leader who is building what's next, and finding a way to integrate work and family like Shelley created at Camp Cannes with a little inspiration from a visitor during the episode!In this uplifting conversation, Shelley shares 'All you need is one yes, you're gonna get lots of no's, but there's always a solution, you just have to find it.'Thank you Shelley for our interview together and a special note of gratitude to Jackie Joy and Holly Corbett. About Shelley ZalisKnown as the “Chief Troublemaker,” Shelley Zalis, CEO & Founder of The Female Quotient, is a trailblazing CEO, entrepreneur, three-time movement maker and global advocate for women in the workplace.www.thefemalequotient.comIG: @shelleyzalisLI: Shelley ZalisJoin us in Chicago at the FQ Lounge Keep shining your light bright. The world needs you.HerCsuite® is a leadership network where women build what's next. Our members land board roles, grow businesses, lead the AI conversation, and live their best portfolio career with our programs. Join us at HerCsuite.com, or connect with host Natalie Benamou on LinkedIn.
Executive Summary: Most women leaders know AI could accelerate their careers—but don't know where to start. Executive coach Sabrina Braham and author Barry O'Reilly reveal the Traits, Tasks, and Tools framework that eliminates AI paralysis, builds confidence in unfamiliar leadership roles, and helps women leaders AI career growth into bigger opportunities—starting this week. Quick Takeaways: 69% of women say AI has opened new career pathways—but only for those who start using it now (ANSR Women in Tech Report, 2026). The Traits, Tasks, Tools framework reveals how to match AI to the way you personally do your best work. Use AI to pressure-test your thinking—never to hand over your judgment. That distinction changes everything. Asking AI "What questions should I be asking as a VP?" instantly elevates your perspective without years of experience. The worst thing you can do in a time of AI uncertainty is nothing. You must be in it to learn it. You know you should be using AI. You've heard the urgency, seen the headlines, maybe even opened ChatGPT, stared at that blinking cursor—and quietly closed the tab. Here's what I want you to know: that moment of hesitation doesn't mean you're behind. It means you haven't yet found your entry point. I'm Sabrina Braham, executive leadership coach (MA, MFT, PCC) with 30+ years of experience, and host of the Women's Leadership Success Podcast—top 1.5% globally with over 950,000 downloads. I coach senior women leaders at Stanford, Ernst & Young, Autodesk, and across the tech industry. And one of the most common things I hear from directors, VPs, and C-suite executives right now is: "I don't know where to start with AI." New research backs this up: Chief and The Harris Poll surveyed 1,000+ senior women leaders in 2026 and found that while 85% are active players in their organization's AI strategy, the approach matters enormously. The leaders who get ahead aren't the ones who automate the most—they're the ones who build human capability alongside AI. And according to the ANSR Women in Tech Report 2026, 69% of women who do engage with AI report it opens entirely new career pathways in product strategy, transformation leadership, and AI governance. In this episode of the Women's Leadership Success Podcast, I welcome back Barry O'Reilly—author of Artificial Organizations: Build Better Judgment, Speed, and Results with Machine and Human Intelligence, keynote speaker at Gartner's CFO Conference, and one of the most sought-after AI leadership advisors in the world. Since our last conversation, Barry has been traveling globally—observing how leaders at every level are (and aren't) adapting to AI. His findings are equal parts sobering and energizing. This is Part 1 of a two-part series. Here, we focus on women leaders using AI for personal growth, confidence, and career advancement. In Part 2, we go deeper into how AI can transform your strategic thinking and decision-making as an executive leader. Why Women Leaders Are Paralyzed at the AI Starting Line After keynoting Gartner's CFO Conference and spending months in leadership rooms across North America, Barry reports seeing the same pattern everywhere: hesitation. "People don't really know where to start," he says. "They constantly hear about new tools arriving in the market. They hear that everything they were meant to do last week is no longer the right thing to do this week. And it all leads to hesitation—which, counterintuitively, is the worst possible response." I know this directly from my coaching practice. I've spoken with women leaders who are brilliant, accomplished, and deeply capable—who are also avoiding AI entirely because they don't know what to do first. And I understand it, because I was there too. When I first started exploring AI, I treated it as if it were smarter than me—as if whatever it said must be right. That mindset kept me small. What changed? Doing the exercises in Barry's book. Going through them shifted me from intimidated observer to active director. Now, AI is my servant—I correct it, challenge it, redirect it. My creative and analytical output has genuinely expanded as a result. "Counterintuitively, the worst thing you can do when there's uncertainty is do nothing. Because you don't learn anything." — Barry O'Reilly This matters especially for women in tech, where the stakes are already high. The ANSR 2026 report found that despite women producing 43% of the world's female STEM graduates, only 14% hold C-suite seats. The gap isn't pipeline—it's systems. AI fluency is rapidly becoming one of those systemic differentiators. The women who build it now will have compounding advantage; those who wait will face a steeper climb. My Leading Before You're Ready playbook is built on exactly this truth: you don't wait to feel fully prepared. You use every available tool—coaching, community, AI—to think and show up at the level you're stepping into. The Traits, Tasks, and Tools Framework: The Smarter Way to Start with AI Most people approach AI for women leaders career growth backwards. They hear about a tool, jump into it, hunt for something useful to do, get mediocre results, and conclude AI isn't for them. Barry's Traits, Tasks, and Tools framework—one of the most referenced frameworks in Artificial Organizations—completely resequences this. The problem: "Most people with this technology just jump straight into the tool. They try to figure out a task to use it for. And only if ever do they ask themselves how they actually do their best work." That backwards approach locks you into the tool's opinions about how work should be done—which may have nothing to do with how you create your best thinking. Trait-First: Start With How YOU Do Your Best Work Before you open any AI tool, answer honestly: When do I do my best thinking? Are you a talker? Your best ideas emerge in conversation and dialogue. Are you a writer? You process and synthesize by putting things on paper. Are you a visual thinker? You need diagrams, maps, and frameworks to see clearly. Do you need solitude and quiet to generate insight, or energy and people? Barry's personal discovery here is instructive. Dyslexic and self-described as a D-student in English literature, he'd spent years trying to write like he imagined writers wrote—sitting quietly, composing prose. "I drank a lot of wine and sat by a lot of fires, but I didn't create much content." Once he recognized that his natural trait was talking, everything changed. He hired a journalist to interview him conversationally, used transcription to capture the output, and went from blank pages to 10,000 words of book content in roughly three hours. That's not a productivity hack. That's a trait-matched workflow—and it's what women leaders using AI for career growth need to build for themselves. Task-Next: Where Does Your Leadership Create the Most Value? Once you know your traits, identify the tasks where you create outsized value. Not the email and calendar management—the strategic work that shapes your team, your organization, and your career trajectory. This might be: Synthesizing complex information into clear executive recommendations Preparing for high-stakes meetings and presentations Developing your team's thinking and capability Building strategic scenarios and options for decision-making Crafting your executive narrative for visibility and advancement Tool-Last: Find What Matches Both Your Traits and Your Tasks Only now do you select tools. Barry matched his "talker" trait and "content creation" task to meeting co-pilots and transcription tools. For women leaders with different trait profiles: If you're a talker preparing for board presentations: Use voice-to-text capture combined with a generative AI to structure and refine your speaking points. Tools like Otter.ai for capture and Claude or ChatGPT for synthesis are a natural combination. If you're a writer preparing strategic memos: Use AI as a sophisticated thinking partner—share your draft, ask it to steelman the opposing view, and challenge every assumption. If you're a visual thinker: Use AI to generate frameworks and then render them in tools like Miro or Canva. Ask AI to "map this decision as a 2x2 matrix" and then build on what it generates. How AI Builds Leadership Confidence in Unfamiliar Territory This is the angle I brought to this conversation that Barry told me he'd never considered—and it's at the heart of what I see women leaders needing most right now. A director gets promoted to VP. A leader's company downsizes and she inherits three departments overnight. A high-potential executive gets tapped for a stretch role she doesn't feel prepared for. These are the moments when imposter syndrome spikes, when visibility feels risky, when the gap between who you are today and who the role requires feels widest. I asked Barry: "How can women leaders use AI to build their confidence in these transitions?" Here's how he frames the three levels of AI impact: Level 1 – Productivity: You bolt AI onto your existing workflow. Emails are faster, documents generate quicker. Real but modest—5 to 10% improvement. Level 2 – Performance: You use AI to pressure-test your thinking and challenge your mindset before high-stakes situations. Your judgment improves, and better decisions follow. Level 3 – Executive Presence: AI offloads cognitive load by capturing conversations, tracking decisions, and surfacing context. You arrive at every meeting calm, prepared, and fully present. This is where careers accelerate—and where women leaders using AI for career growth unlock the biggest competitive advantage. My own experience makes this concrete. I started using AI to help reorganize a storage shed—asking it to help me think through what goes where, what organization system would work best. After three days of working on it together, AI said to me: "You're getting better at this." And the following week, when I had a larger project,...
HEADLINES:• UAE Officially Lifts Lebanon Travel Ban For Citizens • UAE Minister Reem Al Hashimy Receives Italy's Prestigious Award for Women Leaders! • A Customer Was Stopped At A Cafe From Taking His Full Water Bottle Because It Was "Reusable" • Etihad Rail Allows Pets Onboard, Including Falcons And Dogs
Emily Lampkin is a highly sought-after speaker, author and advisor, known for empowering women leaders in corporate, non-profit, education, and political sectors to hone their skills and maximize opportunities. With a pragmatic style and actionable advice, she has trained thousands of women globally through her dynamic, one-of-a-kind “Women Leaders Series” workshop. The Women Leaders Series is the culmination of more than 25 years of experience advising women leaders on ways they can perfect their skills to maximize opportunities. Emily has trained thousands of women across the country and the world. Recognized as one of Washington, DC's most respected connectors, Emily has worked in American politics for thirty years. Her passion is electing more women to office. Emily excels at threading policy and cultural priorities into communications that resonate. A frequent media contributor on major TV networks, radio, podcasts and social platforms, Emily is committed to building a multi-decade pipeline of diverse female leaders. She speaks at universities and schools, including Georgetown University and the London School of Economics, inspiring the next generation of women. Emily's book, Duct Tape and White Lies: A Woman's Practical Guide to Success (March 3, 2026), speaks directly to women who have built successful careers, spent decades caring for others, and are now ready to redefine what fulfillment and leadership look like in this next chapter. It is based on her Women Leaders Series workshop.Emily serves as a member of the U.S. Department of State Speakers Program, collaborating with U.S. embassies and working with a number of international women's organizations to train women globally to assume leadership roles. A proud St. Louis native and University of Missouri graduate, Emily lives in Virginia with her husband and three children.In this episode, we discuss:Why so many successful women feel stuck — and why it's normalHow caregiving and ambition can coexistRedefining success later in life without starting overHow women can give themselves permission to pursue what's nextLearn more and follow Emily:https://www.emilylampkin.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilylampkin/https://www.facebook.com/emily.k.lampkin
She's known as Dr. Pimple Popper. But six months ago, she had a stroke on set, and almost missed it entirely.KB sits down with Dr. Sandra Lee for one of the most honest conversations you'll hear this year. Beyond the TV show and the social media empire, Sandra opens up about the stroke she experienced while filming, the warning signs she ignored, and what she's learning - for the first time - about slowing down.They also go deep on something most people overlook: skin conditions aren't just physical. Acne, psoriasis, and chronic skin issues can quietly reshape a person's confidence, relationships, and identity. Sandra reflects on the patients who changed her, the failures that shaped her career, and her own complicated relationship with aging in an industry that demands perfection.We Talk About:The real story behind her stroke and the critical 4-hour window that could save your lifeWhy dermatology is "just as much psychiatry as it is dermatology"The honest truth about aging, cosmetic procedures, and pushing back against the pressure to look youngerWhat microneedling, exosomes, and peptides actually do to your skinThe one toxic-free habit Dr. Lee says anyone can start today, and it costs nothinThis conversation is raw, honest, and deeply human.If it moves you, share it with a woman in your life who needs to hear it. Follow Toxic Free with KB so you never miss an episode like this one.
What happens when a career built on facts, research, and storytelling meets intuition?In this episode of Women Leaders on the Move, host Natalie Benamou talks with Holly Corbett, former Condé Nast journalist and founder of Human Design by Holly. She shares how her career path has been shaped by trusting her intuition.Today, Holly brings together journalism, storytelling, and human design to help women better understand how they make decisions, use their voice, and lead from a place of self-trust.This conversation is especially meaningful for women in midlife who are ready to stop looking outside themselves for validation and start listening to the wisdom they already carry.Learn how Holly uniquely combines human design and journalism to help women find confidence in themselves.About Holly CorbettHolly Corbett is a journalist (former Condé Nast, Hearst), human design specialist, and reiki master. She believes we need a new value system that's not just about profit and interviews people who bet on themselves, drive change, and/or embody conscious leadership.Connect with HollySubstackLinkedInSubstackHuman Design by HollyKeep shining your light bright. The world needs you.HerCsuite® is a leadership network where women build what's next. Our members land board roles, grow businesses, lead the AI conversation, and live their best portfolio career with our programs. Join us at HerCsuite.com, or connect with host Natalie Benamou on LinkedIn.
Theonila Roka Matbob grew up surrounded by the toxic legacy of Panguna mine in central Bougainville. Now a politician and human rights advocate, she refused to accept the damage left behind. Mobilising her community, Theonila took on mining giant Rio Tinto – and won. Her campaign has earned her global recognition, including the the 2026 Goldman Environmental Prize. In this episode of Sistas Let's Talk, Natasha Meten speaks with Theonila about growing up in the shadow of the mine, her fight for environmental justice and what justice means for her people.
Unlocking the Power of Walking: Feet, Movement, and Health. This episode dives deep into how something as simple as walking is a foundational pillar for health, longevity, and overall well-being. Dr. Karen Litzy welcomes expert insights from Dr. Courtney Conley and Dr. Melissa McDowell, you'll learn practical strategies to optimize foot health, rethink footwear choices, and incorporate walking into everyday life for maximum benefit. In this episode: · Why walking is considered a sixth vital sign and what it means for health assessment · The evidence-based optimal step range and busting myths around 10,000 steps · How foot strength and proper footwear influence pain, injury, and longevity · The biochemistry of walking and its effects on hormones, brain health, and disease prevention · Strategies clinicians and individuals can use to operationalize walking as a therapeutic and preventive tool · Challenging misconceptions about shoes, orthotics, and barefoot walking Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction: Rethinking walking as a vital sign and its importance 02:15 - Walking as a necessity: Beyond exercise, a core biological requirement 03:40 - The myth of 10,000 steps: Evidence-based step targets for different health outcomes 05:04 - Micro walks and ambient activity: How small moments add up 06:31 - Meeting people where they are: Tailoring step goals and activity levels 08:32 - Debunking the 10,000 steps myth and the influence of misinformation 09:56 - The impact of walking on mental health and chronic disease management 11:44 - Foot mechanics and gait: Insights into movement patterns and predicting systemic health 13:15 - The importance of foot strength and preserving foot biomechanics over time 14:32 - Foot health's relationship to fall risk and aging 16:54 - Biological impacts of walking on hormones, brain growth factors, and cognitive function 18:14 - Walking as an intervention for menopause symptoms, depression, and anxiety 19:41 - The power of specific step targets for reducing disease risk 21:01 - How walking should be integrated into chronic pain management 23:34 - The simplicity of behavior change: Making walking accessible for everyone 26:54 - Overcoming pain and fear: Starting with micro walks and building confidence 28:01 - Footwear essentials: Respectting anatomy and choosing proper shoes 30:46 - The influence of shoes on foot health, posture, and systemic health 33:33 - Identifying inappropriate footwear and the role of orthotics 35:45 - Addressing footwear for children and the importance of fit during growth 38:31 - The impact of heel-toe drop and shoe structure on gait and health 41:35 - How indoor shoes and surface changes affect foot and overall health 43:54 - Walking and longevity: Connecting foot strength, fall risk, and lifespan 46:22 - Practical tips for strengthening feet and the dark side of cushioned shoes 50:02 - Tips for clinicians to integrate foot health and walking into practice 53:38 - Business opportunities in community health, workshops, and education 56:23 - Final advice for practitioners interested in promoting walking and foot health 57:59 - The journey of publishing a health-focused book: Tips and encouragement 58:06 - The importance of passion and ongoing learning in health professions 66:35 - Resources, social media, and where to find expert guidance Resources & Links: · Walk: The Surprising Science of Walking and How It Can Improve Your Health and Happiness · Gait Happens - Foot and gait analysis training · Melissa McDowell - Instagram | Website · Courtney Conley Website| Instagram | YouTube More About Dr. Courtney Conley: Dr. Courtney Conley is the founder of Gait Happens, where she pursues her passion for helping as many people as possible reclaim their foot function. As an internationally renowned foot and gait specialist, Dr. Conley teaches both nationally and internationally. She is a chiropractic physician with a BA in Kinesiology, a BA in Human Biology, and a Doctorate in Chiropractic Medicine. Based in Lakewood, CO, Dr. Conley owns and operates Total Health Solutions clinic and Total Health Performance gym, where she leads patient care focused on restoring gait mechanics and resolving foot problems to help people move more easily and pain-free. She is also a founding member of the Healthy Foot Alliance, an international team of practitioners dedicated to promoting the benefits of natural footwear, preventing unnecessary surgeries, and improving foot function to create a stable foundation from the ground up. More about Dr. Milica McDowell: Dr. Milica McDowell holds two Bachelor of Science degrees (Exercise Physiology and Health Promotion, (Montana State University), a master's degree (Physical Therapy, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center), and a Doctorate degree (Physical Therapy, Idaho State University). She served as a university faculty member in Human Performance for nearly a decade, has developed numerous medical education curricula and has been an invited speaker on many national stages, including the American Physical Therapy Association and American College of Sports Medicine's conventions. She has been an invited presenter for numerous professional organizations, and she has delivered over 300 educational lectures at state, regional, and national levels. Dr. McDowell founded Clearwater Physical Therapy, Bluebird Medical Supply Company, and co-founded Epic Fitness, 4C Sports Injury Analytics, and CrossFit Send It. In 2023, Dr. McDowell was recognized as one of the Top 50 Women Leaders in Healthcare by the Women We Admire organization. She has edited textbooks, written several university science courses, and developed professional continuing education courses that are sold in a global marketplace. One of her present interests is the responsible use of AI technologies to produce multimedia learning experiences in professional education. Jane Sponsorship Information: Book a one-on-one demo here Mention the code LITZY1MO for a free month Follow Dr. Karen Litzy on Social Media: Karen's Instagram Karen's LinkedIn Subscribe to Healthy, Wealthy & Smart: YouTube Website Apple Podcast Spotify SoundCloud Stitcher iHeart Radio
Women Leaders Career Advancement: The 4-Relationship Framework and Personal Success Plan (2026) Executive Summary: Women leaders career advancement stalls most often at the relationship level, not the skill level. Women hold only 29% of C-suite roles despite representing nearly half the workforce. Former IBM VP Shelmina Babai Abji reveals the four strategic relationships that accelerate promotion and the Personal Success Plan that keeps you on track week after week. Quick Takeaways: Women leaders career advancement remains stalled at every pipeline level for the 11th consecutive year (McKinsey, 2025). The four relationships that accelerate promotion are: boss, peers, mentors, and sponsors — and all four must be intentionally built. Only 31% of entry-level women have a sponsor, vs. 45% of men — closing this gap is one of the highest-ROI actions you can take. Responding to bias with proof, not reaction, protects your power and changes minds more effectively than confrontation. A Personal Success Plan reviewed weekly keeps your business results, relationships, competencies, and leadership brand advancing together. Key 2025–2026 statistics on women leaders career advancement: the C-suite gap, the broken rung, and the sponsorship deficit. Women leaders career advancement has a number that should stop you: for every 100 men promoted to their first manager role, only 81 women make the same leap. That gap — what McKinsey researchers call the "broken rung" — has barely moved in years. And it is not primarily a skills gap. It is a visibility gap, a relationship gap, and a strategy gap. I'm Sabrina Braham, MA, MFT, PCC — executive leadership coach with over 30 years of experience and host of the Women's Leadership Success Podcast, ranked in the top 1.5% globally with over 950,000 downloads. In Part II of my interview with Shelmina Babai Abji — TEDx speaker, former IBM Vice President, and author of Show Your Worth — we go deep on the practical mechanics that drive women leaders career advancement forward. If you caught Part I, you already have Shelmina's Power Quotient framework for silencing self-doubt. This episode is what comes next: the external strategy. How do you intentionally build the four relationships that move careers forward? How do you handle a boss who doesn't see your value? How do you navigate workplace bias without giving your power away? And what is the weekly planning practice that keeps even the most overwhelmed leader — including single mothers carrying impossible loads — on a clear path to the C-suite? This is one of the most actionable episodes I have recorded in 19 years of podcasting. Let's get into it. Why Women Leaders Career Advancement Stalls: The Strategy Gap The McKinsey Women in the Workplace 2025 report — which surveyed approximately 10,000 employees across 124 organizations — found that women hold only 29% of C-suite roles, unchanged from 2024, and that women remain underrepresented at every level of the corporate pipeline for the eleventh consecutive year. Women of color face a steeper drop-off at every rung. The same research surfaces a critical sponsorship gap that most women don't know exists: only 31% of entry-level women have a sponsor, compared to 45% of men at the same level. Sponsorship — not mentorship — is the relationship that most reliably unlocks promotions, stretch assignments, and visibility with senior leaders. And women are starting from a 14-point deficit. Shelmina's response to this data is direct: "The reason the numbers are as bad as they are is we cannot wait for organizations to change, or for people to change. We have to be the change we want to see." That is not resignation to an unfair system. It is a strategic recognition that women leaders career advancement is not waiting for institutions to fix the pipeline — it is built deliberately, relationship by relationship, decision by decision, week by week. The Four Relationships That Accelerate Women Leaders Career Advancement Shelmina's book Show Your Worth dedicates an entire chapter to what she calls "intentional relationships" — the four categories of professional connection that, when built strategically, become the scaffolding of a senior career. She credits them with her own advancement from immigrant engineer to IBM Vice President. Relationship 1: Your Boss This is the most high-leverage relationship in your career, and the one most women invest in least strategically. "At the end of the day, you work for your boss, not an organization," Shelmina says. "It is up to you to build that relationship." The mechanism is not flattery or politics. It is a deliberate daily practice of contributing value that advances your boss's success — specifically, unique value that makes you essential. Shelmina describes this as "leaning into your authenticity and your uniqueness until you become essential to your boss's success." When you are essential to your boss's success, you are in a position of power to negotiate what you want — flexible boundaries, stretch assignments, sponsorship, promotion recommendations. Power in a workplace relationship is not seized; it is earned through indispensability. Practically, this means: Understanding your boss's most critical success metrics and aligning your work visibly to them Ensuring your boss has a "front-row seat" to your contributions — proactively, not passively Asking for help on stretch assignments (which demonstrates self-awareness, not weakness) Preparing thoroughly for performance reviews with documented, outcome-quantified contributions Relationship 2: Peers Peer relationships are the often-overlooked engine of influence. In 2026's increasingly matrixed organizations, influence flows horizontally as much as it flows vertically. Peers who trust you, advocate for you in rooms you're not in, and co-create solutions with you are a form of organizational capital that compounds over time. Shelmina notes that the same principle applies here as with the boss relationship: the foundation is contribution, not connection for its own sake. Peers who see you as someone who makes their work better — not someone who competes with them for credit — become your most organic advocates. Relationship 3: Mentors — The Right Ones, Not Just Any Here Shelmina offers a counterintuitive observation that stopped me when I heard it. She regularly asks women at conferences: "How many of you have mentors?" Almost every hand goes up. Then she asks: "How many of those mentors have pushed you, accelerated your success, made you significantly better personally or professionally?" Most hands go down. "We need to be intentional and strategic even when we look for mentors," she says. "We must know: why is this person the right mentor for me, at this point in time?" A mentor who is a perfect match for where you are today may be misaligned with where you need to go next. Great mentors: Have navigated the specific transition you are facing Will push you, not just validate you Are willing to give you honest, sometimes uncomfortable feedback Have relationships and visibility at levels above your current role Shelmina's own pivotal mentor was Susan Whitney — an IBM General Manager who, in the two minutes it took to walk from a roundtable back to an office, changed the entire direction of Shelmina's career by asking one question: "Where do you want to be in five years?" That question planted a seed. Shelmina did not have the answer — but she pursued Susan as a mentor, did whatever it took to get noticed and earn time with her, and eventually built the relationship that shifted her from "doing a great job in my current role" to "thinking strategically about what I want to do next, and next, and next." Relationship 4: Sponsors — Your Most Powerful Accelerant A mentor gives advice. A sponsor gives opportunity. This distinction is critical and widely misunderstood. Sponsors use their own political capital to advocate for you — in the rooms where promotions are decided, on the committees where assignments are distributed, in the conversations where names are put forward. A sponsor says your name when you are not in the room. A mentor helps you prepare for the room. Both matter. But only one moves the needle on the broken rung. Given that women enter careers with a 14-point sponsorship deficit compared to men, closing this gap is one of the highest-ROI investments you can make in your own career advancement. You earn a sponsor the same way you earn every other relationship: by making yourself visible, demonstrating your capability in high-stakes situations, and becoming someone whose success the sponsor wants to be associated with. Shelmina's guidance: identify one person at two levels above you who has both visibility with senior leadership and the willingness to advocate. Do the work to get in their orbit. When you are there, make their decision to sponsor you easy — by showing up with the kind of work that reflects well on anyone who recommends you. The four relationships that drive women leaders career advancement: boss, peers, mentors, and sponsors How to Navigate Workplace Bias Without Losing Your Power As a woman of color scaling the corporate ladder, Shelmina encountered both internal barriers — the self-doubt and fear of belonging described in Part I — and external barriers: leaders who did not automatically see her as a candidate for leadership roles, colleagues who underestimated her capabilities, and structural biases that filtered opportunity away from people who didn't fit the existing template. Her framework for navigating bias is one of the most strategically intelligent approaches I have encountered in 30 years of coaching. It has three operating principles: Principle 1: Don't React — Prove "When you react, you give your power away to them....
In this episode of the InspirED Podcast, Andrea De La Cerda sits down with Gina Fedeli, founder of P3 Transformation, to explore the powerful connection between identity and leadership. Drawing from her experience leading large teams in male-dominated industries and advising founders and CEOs, Gina shares how self-awareness, values alignment, emotional intelligence, and communication shape the way leaders show up and influence others. Together, they discuss the CEO-COO partnership, intuition in leadership, understanding the whole person, and why meaningful leadership starts with knowing yourself first. This conversation offers valuable insight for entrepreneurs, executives, and emerging leaders who want to lead with greater authenticity, clarity, and impact....CHAPTERS00:00 Meet Gina Fedeli 02:20 Leading in Male-Dominated Industries 04:05 Learning to Meet People Where They Are 05:58 Why Great Leaders Understand the Whole Person 09:16 Intuition, Self-Awareness, and Leadership 13:36 Emotional Intelligence in Business 16:44 The CEO and COO Partnership 18:33 Leadership, Identity, and Founder Growth 22:21 Values Alignment and Organizational Culture 26:59 What Meaningful Leadership Looks Like 29:45 Advice for Women Leaders...RESOURCES P3 Transformation Gina FedeliAndrea De La CerdaBusiness AuditTAG ANDREA ON INSTAGRAM@andreadlc_coach...CONNECT WITH KANDULAKandula BlogsYoutubeInstagramLinkedIn. . .ABOUT ANDREA DE LA CERDAAndrea De La Cerda is a highly accomplished communications professional with over 25 years of experience in the fields of advertising, communications and marketing. Throughout her career, Andrea has held key positions in renowned advertising agencies, brand consultancies and in-house marketing departments before creating Kandula. She possesses a deep understanding of consumer behavior and market trends, allowing her to develop innovative communication strategies that resonate with diverse audiences. Andrea received both her B.A. in Advertising and Business Administration and a M.A. in Education from Pepperdine. She is currently pursuing her Accreditation in Public Relations and is a member of PRSA.. . .WORK WITH USKandula works with nonprofits, entrepreneurs, educational institutions, and established brands dedicated to expanding their influence and amplifying their impact through purpose-driven communication strategies. Reach out to work with us!
In today's episode, Claudia and her guest Trude Stene (originally fro Norway, based in Switzerland) shares her transformative journey that began 23 years ago when she faced blindness after her daughter's birth, leading her to dedicate her life to humanitarian work through Future for Children and later Triple Solution Skincare—a social enterprise that empowers women in Uganda, Nepal, and the Amazon while addressing environmental challenges. Trude's journey is on full speed. She truly drives impact and significant change, where it is needed: Business Evolution in Uganda Initial investments (5 groups): Goat breeding, wild honey production, seed trading—all eventually converged on goat breeding as most beneficial 16 Investment amount: ~500 francs per group, with bi-weekly follow-up visits for accountability and training in basic economics and marketing 3 Scaling: Expanded from 5 to ~20 groups; word spread and groups now approach the foundation 317 Advanced stage (after 5 years): Women purchased oxen for plowing, now rent them out for additional income 17 Impact Beyond Economics Women moved from week-to-week survival to predictable income 17 Status transformation: Women gained social standing and confidence, "held their heads up high" 17 Generational impact: Demonstrating agency to both daughters and sons Brava! +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ To learn more about Trude Stene and her organisation, Future 4 Children, and her skincare brand, Triple Solution Skincare, please go to the websites and follow on social media: www.future4children.com www.triplesolutionskincare.com @triplesolutionskincare **********+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ To learn more about SHIFT HAPPENS, click here To learn more about Claudia's business SHIFT HAPPENS.Curated Conversations and her Salons in New York, Zurich and Berlin, click here You can also connect with Claudia on Instagram @shifthappens.podcast and LinkedIn at ClaudiaMahlerNYC This podcast is created, produced and hosted by Claudia Mahler.
What are women leaders in the second half of their careers asking about most?In this solo episode of Women Leaders on the Move, Natalie Benamou shares the five questions women are asking as they explore portfolio careers, board roles, entrepreneurship, AI leadership, and what's NEXT.From wondering “Am I qualified?” to join a board to deciding where to focus first when starting a business, this episode offers encouragement and practical perspective for women who are ready to create their next chapter with more intention.Listen in and discover why your experience still holds tremendous value, how to think about your next opportunity through a wider lens, and why being with the right circle of women can create momentum, referrals, collaboration, and growth.This episode is a reminder that you don't have to figure it all out alone. You are qualified, your work matters, and what's NEXT is up to you. Fly through the window and embrace the possibilities.Keep shining your light bright. The world needs you.About Natalie BenamouNatalie Benamou is the Founder of HerCsuite® and Board President and CEO of HER HEALTHX, a nonprofit improving women's health outcomes by bridging the care communication gap. Natalie is a speaker and bestselling author.HerCsuite® is a leadership network where women build what's next. Our members land board roles, grow businesses, lead the AI conversation, and live their best portfolio career with our programs. Join us at HerCsuite.com, or connect with host Natalie Benamou on LinkedIn.
Most women think confidence comes from achievement. What if true confidence comes from knowing yourself? In this empowering episode of The Balanced, Beautiful & Abundant Show, Rebecca Whitman sits down with executive coach Beverly Jurenko to explore how self-awareness can become your greatest leadership advantage. With an extraordinary career spanning private equity, investment banking, global leadership, and executive coaching, Beverly shares how the Enneagram can help you uncover blind spots, strengthen relationships, increase influence, and lead with greater confidence and ease. Whether you're a CEO, entrepreneur, professional, or simply someone seeking more clarity and alignment, this conversation will help you stop spinning and start leading from your center. In this episode, you'll discover: ✨ What the Enneagram is and why it's different from other personality assessments ✨ How understanding your type can accelerate personal and professional growth ✨ The surprising connection between figure skating and finding your center ✨ Why high achievers often lose themselves in success ✨ How self-awareness strengthens executive presence and influence ✨ Common blind spots that hold leaders back ✨ Practical tools to stay grounded during stressful seasons ✨ How women can lead with more confidence without sacrificing authenticity ✨ The role of emotional intelligence in effective leadership ✨ Daily habits that create greater clarity, connection, and impact Beverly also shares insights on navigating major life transitions, leading through uncertainty, and why the most effective leaders aren't necessarily the loudest—they're the most centered. If you've ever felt overwhelmed, disconnected from yourself, or unsure of your next step, this episode offers a powerful roadmap back to your authentic leadership. Connect with Beverly Jurenko: Special Listener Offer: Enneagram Basic Assessment + One-Hour Debrief for $100 Book Here: https://beverlycoaching.as.me/enneagram-basic Connect with Rebecca Whitman: Website: rebeccaelizabethwhitman.com Instagram: @rebeccaewhitman Listen to more episodes of The Balanced, Beautiful & Abundant Show and discover how to create success, love, health, and happiness without burnout. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a friend who is ready to lead from a place of confidence, clarity, and abundance. #LeadershipDevelopment #ExecutiveCoaching #Enneagram #SelfAwareness #WomenInLeadership #PersonalGrowth #EmotionalIntelligence #AuthenticLeadership #ConfidenceBuilding #BalancedBeautifulAbundant ✨ CONNECT WITH REBECCA ✨
What happens when ambitious, purpose-driven women come together to learn, connect, and elevate their brands? In this special She Believed She Could™ Podcast episode, Allison Walsh and Carolina Flores recap the unforgettable She Believed She Could Summit and Visibility Lab, sharing the transformational moments, powerful breakthroughs, and practical strategies that left attendees inspired and ready to take action. Throughout the conversation, they reflect on the summit's biggest themes—including personal branding, storytelling, public relations, podcast guesting, private podcasting, social media strategy, website development, book publishing, influencer marketing, brand partnerships, and content creation. You'll hear insights from an incredible lineup of experts who generously shared their knowledge, experience, and actionable tools to help women grow their visibility, build authority, and create greater impact through their businesses and personal brands. The episode also provides a behind-the-scenes look at Visibility Lab, where attendees received hands-on coaching, professional content creation support, brand messaging guidance, media training, and confidence-building experiences that transformed how they show up online and in their businesses. Whether you're building a personal brand, growing a business, launching a podcast, writing a book, pursuing brand partnerships, or simply looking for the confidence to step into your next level, this episode will leave you inspired and equipped with practical next steps. In This Episode You'll Learn: How to build a stronger personal brand Why visibility creates business opportunities The power of public relations and earned media How podcast guesting can grow your audience Why private podcasts are becoming a powerful marketing tool Social media strategies that build authentic communities Website essentials every entrepreneur needs How to leverage influencer marketing and brand partnerships The importance of storytelling in business growth Why confidence grows through action and implementation How strategic networking accelerates success The role of community in personal and professional growth If you've ever felt stuck, uncertain about your next step, or hesitant to put yourself out there, this conversation is your reminder that your story matters—and your next opportunity may be one courageous step away. Positioned for Partnerships™ Mini Course - Turn your platform into a revenue-generating brand opportunity—without needing a massive following. Learn how to position your brand, create a high-converting media kit, and confidently pitch partnerships so brands instantly understand your value.
In episode 183, we sit down with Sarah Jakle of DemocraShe to explore how brain science is unlocking a new generation of bold, civically engaged women leaders.Sarah Jakle is the Founder and Executive Director of DemocraShe, a nonpartisan national nonprofit empowering underserved high school girls to become future leaders, voters, and elected officials. Her approach uniquely integrates brain science into civic leadership training, helping young women overcome barriers, build courage and ambition, and claim their place in public life.Previously, Sarah served as Get Out The Vote Director for California NOW and National Outreach Director for Field Team 6. Her passion for women in politics began as an intern at the Women's Council of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee.Sarah has a Bachelors from Yale, a Masters in Social Work from USC and a Masters in Public Policy from UCLA. She was a 2025 Movement Builder Fellow with How Women Lead and was a Fellow with Obama's Organizing For Action.Resources: * DemocraShe* DemocraShe Application* Sarah's LinkedInWe're bringing together digital creators from across the state to build a powerful digital organizing network called Ohio Creators for Progress. Support and donate to this effort below! ⬇️Connect with United SHE Stands:* Substack* Instagram* TikTok* YouTube* Threads* Buy us a coffee ☕️This episode was edited by Kevin Tanner. Learn more about him and his services here:* Website* Instagram This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.unitedshestands.com/subscribe
Alethea Felton shares on this episode of the Vibrant Living Podcast about obedience, uncertainty, leadership, and what happens when God asks you to move before you fully understand where He is taking you. Alethea talks about fear, transition, trust, mentorship, and learning that authority does not come from having everything figured out. It grows through obedience, often long before confidence shows up. This is an honest conversation for anyone who has ever felt stretched between what feels safe and what they sense God calling them toward. This conversation was originally recorded during FORTIFIED: Women Rising in Authority, Ease, and Joy.In this episode, we talk about:Obedience and spiritual authorityFear, uncertainty, and trustLeadership and growthMentorship and supportMoving before you feel fully readyLearning to discern God's direction
Send us Fan MailSend us Fan MailSend us Fan MailIn this inspiring episode of Living the Dream with Curveball, we welcome Dr. Marline C. Duroseau, affectionately known as Dr. Mar, a leadership executive, author, and resilience expert. Dr. Mar shares her remarkable journey from overcoming personal struggles with infertility to becoming a powerful advocate for women in leadership. Her TEDx talk, *The Secret Battle Behind Powerful Women Leaders*, sheds light on the hidden challenges faced by high achievers, emphasizing the importance of community and support.Dr. Mar opens up about her experiences as a first-generation American, the stigma surrounding infertility, and how these adversities shaped her leadership philosophy. With a doctorate in organizational leadership, she discusses the critical balance between personal fulfillment and professional aspirations, encouraging women to embrace their authenticity amidst life's disruptions.Listeners will gain valuable insights into Dr. Mar's EAR framework for resilience, which emphasizes emotional awareness, authenticity, and adaptability. She also shares her personal narrative of loss and triumph, illustrating how vulnerability can lead to empowerment and connection.Join us for a heartfelt conversation that encourages women to honor their journeys and find strength in their stories. Dr. Mar's advocacy work and ongoing projects, including her masterclass *Chaos to Calm*, provide essential resources for those navigating the complexities of leadership and personal challenges.What You'll Learn in This Episode:- The impact of personal struggles on leadership style and philosophy- Insights from Dr. Mar's TEDx talk and her advocacy for women- Practical tips for building resilience through the EAR framework- The importance of community support in overcoming life's disruptions- Information about Dr. Mar's upcoming projects and resources for womenFor more information on Dr. Mar and her work, visit www.mcdbe.com and follow her on social media for updates and inspiration.Support the show
The deputy mayor of Tirana, Albania says she realized one day that her city had been planned with one user in mind - an adult male who needed to get to the office as quickly as possible. She says everything about Tirana's streets, public spaces and transport systems were designed to make his life easy. Anuela Ristani is one of the women in local government that we get to meet in Women Changing Cities, a new book by Canadian authors and urban mobility advocates Melissa and Chris Bruntlett. We spoke with Melissa Bruntlett in November.
After years of mysterious symptoms that conventional medicine couldn't explain, I became my own health advocate, and built a movement around everything I learned the hard way.The truth is, you don't need a massive budget or a complete lifestyle overhaul to start living more toxic free. You just need to start with one thing.In this episode, I'm breaking down practical, realistic tools to help you do exactly that.What you'll learn:Why the most toxic item in your home might be the bed you sleep on every nightHow plastic food containers may be disrupting your hormones, and what to use insteadWhy stress can cancel out the benefits of a healthy diet, plus a simple 3-breath technique to better absorb nutrientsHow your relationships directly impact your health, and how to set boundaries with toxic people without owing anyone an explanationMy top 3 non-toxic product swapsWhich wellness trends are more marketing than science, and what actually worksIf you're ready to live a little more toxic free, this episode is your starting point.Subscribe so you never miss an episode, share it with your wellness bestie, and leave a comment - I read every single one.
Mentoring is one of the most powerful levers for women's growth and one of the most misunderstood. In this rich conversation, Giovanna sits down with two women who have dedicated their careers to getting mentoring right: Tamara Thorpe and Lisa Fain. Tamara Thorpe is the Founder of Real Mentors Network while Lisa Fain is the CEO of Center for Mentoring Excellence. They bring a combined 40+ years of mentoring excellence across industries, sectors, and global communities.Together, they pull back the curtain on why so many workplace mentoring programs quietly fall flat and what it actually takes to build a mentoring culture that helps people thrive, not just perform. In this episode, you'll discover:Why mentoring is "the most promiscuously used word in leadership development" — and what it actually meansThe three core elements of effective mentoring: reciprocity, learning, and co-creationWhy mentoring is a “triple win” for individuals, leaders, and organizationsWhy mentoring programs fail when treated as a DEI add-on or a technology fixWhy great mentors are coaches — but not all great coaches are mentorsHow top leadership buy-in makes mentoring measurable and how to find your mentoring ROI This is a conversation that will make you look at every mentoring relationship — past, present, and future — with fresh eyes. ✨ Ease in knowing that the best mentoring relationships do not require you to have all the answers. Real mentoring flows from curiosity, not expertise. When you stop trying to give advice and start asking better questions, something opens up for both of you.✨ Joy in the reciprocity. The mentor gains as much as the mentee. More engaged work, broader perspective, deeper satisfaction — these are not byproducts. They are the point. There is something genuinely joyful in a relationship where both people walk away more whole than they arrived.✨ Impact in building something that lasts. A single well-supported mentoring culture can change retention rates, career trajectories, and the texture of daily work life for everyone in an organization. That kind of impact is quiet, cumulative, and profound.✨ Self-trust in knowing when a relationship is truly investing in you and when it only looks like it is. Lisa knew the difference between her lunches and her real mentor, even before she had words for it. You already know the difference too. Trust what you feel in those relationships. That instinct is your compass.----------------✨ The Well Woman Show is delighted to partner with the Work and Family Researchers Network and its next conference June 17-20, 2026 in Montreal, Canada. For more information, look to https://wfrn.org/2026-work-and-family-researchers-network-conference/ ✨ Join other smart, high-achieving women to rewrite the rules for how to love, lead, and succeed so you can live with more joy, ease, and abundance, even when life is tough.
They asked her for a W-2 to “prove” her salary. Another leader got an offer $25,000 below what she already makes because of “parity.” And a third realised her wins were real but her language was costing her money. Those are not random stories, they are the exact moments where ambitious, introverted Black women get pressured to shrink their ask, accept a lower baseline, or undersell their impact.I'm Dr. Nicole Bryan, and I'm walking you through what came up inside my Name Your Number workshop and what needs to happen next if you want a higher salary, stronger total compensation, and an executive level promotion. ____Interested in working with me in my 1:1 private coaching program? Let's talk...www.thechangedoc.com/bookacall
How can you translate the skills that come easiest to you may into career opportunities?In this episode of Women Leaders on the Move, host Natalie Benamou welcomes Angela Finlay, is a CHRO, Columbia University Professor, and Author of Skill Stacking: Taking Ownership of Your Career in Changing Times.Angela brings a fresh perspective on career ownership and why the skills women use every day are often the same skills that create new opportunities. She shares how to recognize your strengths, build new capabilities, and connect your experience in ways that support your next move.Natalie and Angela talk about AI, portfolio careers, reinvention, and the power of skill stacking in a changing world of work.This conversation will help you see your experience as an advantage and take a more intentional step toward what's next.Keep shining your light bright. The world needs you.About Our GuestAngela Finlay is a Chief Human Capital Strategist, CHRO and educator who helps organizations and professionals rethink what it means to build a successful career in today's ever-changing workplace.LinkedIn https://windwardhcm.com/ stackingyourcareer.comHerCsuite® is a leadership network where women build what's next. Our members land board roles, grow businesses, lead the AI conversation, and live their best portfolio career with our programs. Join us at HerCsuite.com, or connect with host Natalie Benamou on LinkedIn.
What happens when a lifelong passion for science, innovation, and helping others comes together in one remarkable career? In this episode of The She Believed She Could™ Podcast, Allison Walsh sits down with Dr. Erica Stockwell, an advanced gynecologic surgeon with AdventHealth for Women, to discuss her groundbreaking work in women's healthcare, minimally invasive surgery, and medical innovation. Dr. Stockwell shares how her background in biomedical engineering, medicine, and business led her to become a pioneer in robotic surgery and surgical technology. From holding medical device patents to helping shape the future of AI-assisted healthcare, she offers a fascinating look at where women's health is headed and why innovation matters more than ever. But beyond her impressive accomplishments, Dr. Stockwell also reveals the deeply personal challenges that shaped her journey. During medical residency, she became a new mother while simultaneously caring for her infant daughter battling cancer. Her powerful story of perseverance, faith, and community support serves as a reminder that even the most successful women face valleys—and that resilience is built by continuing forward through them. Together, Allison and Dr. Stockwell explore leadership, confidence, endometriosis care, women's health advocacy, entrepreneurship, motherhood, and the courage it takes to keep believing in yourself when life gets hard. If you're looking for inspiration, practical wisdom, and a glimpse into the future of healthcare, this conversation is one you won't want to miss. What You'll Learn in This Episode: How innovation is reshaping women's healthcare The benefits of minimally invasive gynecologic surgery Emerging trends in robotic surgery and AI-assisted medicine Why endometriosis requires comprehensive, multidisciplinary care How to build resilience during life's hardest seasons The role of mentorship and support systems in success Why confidence is created through action Lessons on leadership, entrepreneurship, and impact How to navigate motherhood while pursuing ambitious goals The future of women's health technology This episode is sponsored by AdventHealth for Women. Learn more about their Women's Health Navigation Team and how they're making healthcare simpler for women and their families at AdventHealthForWomen.com. Positioned for Partnerships™ Mini Course - Turn your platform into a revenue-generating brand opportunity—without needing a massive following. Learn how to position your brand, create a high-converting media kit, and confidently pitch partnerships so brands instantly understand your value.
In this episode, Mary Sullivan, co-founder of Sweet but Fearless, talks with Jinesha Jain, Senior Analyst and TEDx Speaker, to explore the hidden pressures that often accompany ambition and achievement. Despite advancing quickly in her personal and professional life, Jinesha realized that success had come with an invisible cost when her mother observed that she no longer carried the same smile she once had. That moment became a turning point, prompting Jinesha to reevaluate what true success and well-being really mean. That realization led Jinesha to discover Bhramari pranayama, or "humming bee breath," a yogic breathing practice that helped her reduce stress, improve focus, and reconnect with herself. Together, Mary and Jinesha explore the importance of internal growth alongside external success, reminding women that sometimes the most powerful thing we can do is pause, realign with what matters most, and care for ourselves while pursuing our goals. ABOUT JINESHA JAIN:LinkedIn – Jinesha JainInstagram – Jinesha JainTEDx – The Power of Stillness: How One Breath Can Break Burnout ABOUT SWEET BUT FEARLESS: Website - Sweet but Fearless LinkedIn - Sweet but Fearless
Hello and welcome to the Women Leaders in Sports Podcast. I'm your host, Patti Phillips, CEO of Women Leaders in Sports. Today, I'm joined by Julie Roe Lach, E-V-P of External Relations and Community Engagement at Pacers Sports & Entertainment. Julie is a practicing attorney, an entrepreneur, and has held executive leadership roles at the NCAA, Indy Sports Corp and most recently at the Horizon League where she was commissioner for the last 14 years. She recently made the pivot to professional sports, and in our conversation, Julie shares why career pivots don't always come from a master plan, how volunteering and relationship-building opened unexpected doors, and why strong leadership starts with alignment, communication, and authenticity. She also offers powerful insight into navigating change, building trust across teams, and the people skills today's leaders need most. Let's get started - and remember, We Are Women Leaders.
Have you ever reached a point where everything looks successful on the outside, but deep down you know something needs to change? In this inspiring episode of The She Believed She Could™ Podcast, Allison sits down with entrepreneur, peak performance coach, and Relaunch creator Hilary DeCesare to explore what happens when life calls you into your next evolution. Hilary shares the powerful story behind her own "I'm done" moment—a pivotal experience that forced her to confront burnout, redefine her identity, and ultimately create the Relaunch Method that has helped thousands of women navigate major life transitions with confidence and intention. Together, Allison and Hilary discuss why so many high-achieving women feel stuck despite outward success, how identity shifts are often the missing piece in personal and professional growth, and why reinvention isn't about starting over—it's about building from the wisdom you've already earned. Hilary also walks Allison through her signature Tune In Process, a simple yet powerful framework that combines neuroscience, visualization, music, emotional alignment, and micro-actions to help women gain clarity, elevate their energy, and move toward their biggest goals. You'll also hear a fascinating conversation about manifestation, the Law of Attraction, The Secret, and how intentionality can help create opportunities that once seemed impossible. Whether you're navigating a career change, business growth, burnout, divorce, motherhood, or simply feeling called toward something more, this episode will remind you that you're not lost—and you're definitely not stuck. In This Episode, You'll Learn: Why feeling frustrated is different from being stuck How to recognize when you're ready for a relaunch The hidden identity shifts behind major life transitions Hilary's 3HQ™ framework: Head, Heart & Highest Self The neuroscience behind her Tune In Process How music can help elevate your energy and performance Practical tools for overcoming fear and creating momentum The role manifestation and intentionality play in success Why reinvention is available at every stage of life How to build a life rich in purpose, impact, wealth, and fulfillment Connect with Hilary: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hilarydecesare/ Website: https://therelaunch.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/hilarydecesare/ https://www.facebook.com/TheReLaunchCo https://www.youtube.com/@hilarydecesare This episode is sponsored by AdventHealth for Women. Learn more about their Women's Health Navigation Team and how they're making healthcare simpler for women and their families at AdventHealthForWomen.com. Positioned for Partnerships™ Mini Course - Turn your platform into a revenue-generating brand opportunity—without needing a massive following. Learn how to position your brand, create a high-converting media kit, and confidently pitch partnerships so brands instantly understand your value.
Welcome to the Mind-Blowing Happiness® Podcast, a space for self-awareness, self-leadership, and sustainable joy. In this solo episode, Trish Ahjel Roberts dives into Step 5 of the Mind-Blowing Happiness® framework: Transforming Anger to Peace.Trish reflects on:The real meaning of anger3 Facts about anger that you won't be able to denyAn easy technique to transform your anger without repressing it. Each month this season, we'll explore one step to Mind-Blowing Happiness®, offering reflections, embodiment, and wisdom to support your personal growth and self-leadership from the inside out.✨This week's reflections:Which variation of anger's 7 Cranky Cousins shows up most in your life? Is it disappointment, annoyance, frustration, jealousy, impatience, guilt, or resentment?What emotions might be hiding underneath your anger? Is it pain, shame, fear, powerlessness, sadness, or something else? How does your ego show up in all of that?What would become possible if you redirected that energy toward peace, purpose, healing, or connection?✨Learn about upcoming events, membership, and how you can work with Trish at MindBlowingHappiness.com✨ Next episode: Generosity. We'll dive into what it means to share the gifts and talents that are uniquely yours.Follow @MindBlowingHappiness on Instagram and connect with Trish Ahjel Roberts on LinkedIn and Facebook.ep66/s6/ep5
Women Leaders Overcome Self-Doubt: The Power Quotient Framework That Changes Everything (2026) Executive Summary: 68% of women in tech experience imposter syndrome, yet most have never been taught to fight it strategically. Former IBM VP Shelmina Babai Abji shares her Power Quotient (PQ) framework — a proven system for silencing the inner critic, amplifying your voice of courage, and advancing your leadership career. Quick Takeaways: 68% of women in tech report imposter syndrome — tech is the most affected industry (Hays, 2025). Your "Power Quotient" (PQ) is the ability to intentionally choose an empowering response over a disempowering one. The voice of fear is doing its job — your job is to feed your voice of courage louder reasons to act. For every 100 men promoted to first manager, only 81 women make the same leap (McKinsey, 2025) — PQ is a competitive differentiator. Showing your worth is a continuous journey of competence, confidence, relationships, and personal branding — not a one-time event. Sixty-eight percent of women in tech experience imposter syndrome. Let that number land. That means more than two out of every three talented, qualified women sitting in engineering meetings, VP offices, and C-suite strategy sessions are secretly wondering if they belong there. And according to a KPMG survey of 750 female executives, 75% of senior women leaders have experienced imposter syndrome at some point in their careers — with 85% saying they believe it's widespread in corporate America. Yet almost no one teaches women what to do about it — strategically, systematically, and permanently. I'm Sabrina Braham, MA, MFT, PCC — executive leadership coach with over 30 years of experience, and host of the Women's Leadership Success Podcast, now with over 950,000 downloads and ranked in the top 1.5% of podcasts globally. In Episode 162, I sit down with Shelmina Babai Abji — TEDx speaker, former IBM Vice President, angel investor, and author of Show Your Worth — for one of the most powerful and practical conversations I've ever had on this podcast. Shelmina grew up in poverty in Tanzania, put herself through school across three countries, walked into a room of 2,000 engineers where no one looked like her, and still became one of the highest-ranking women of color in IBM's history — overseeing teams that generated over $1 billion in annual revenue. Her secret? A framework she calls the Power Quotient. If you're a woman leader in tech or any competitive industry who is battling negative mental chatter, fear of speaking up, or the relentless whisper that says you're not qualified enough — this episode is for you. Why Self-Doubt Is Hitting Women Leaders Harder Than Ever in 2026 The data tells a story that is urgent and personal. A 2025 Hays survey of more than 8,000 professionals found that 68% of women in tech experience imposter syndrome — and that approximately one-third say these feelings grow more intense as their careers advance, not less. Tech is now the single most-affected industry in the entire workforce. This is not a personal failing. It is a structural reality. As Shelmina describes it, when you look around a room and see no one who looks like you, no one who sounds like you, no one who grew up like you — your brain does exactly what it is designed to do: it searches for evidence that you belong, finds little, and generates doubt. "I walked into a room of 2,000 engineers," Shelmina recalls, "and I realized there was not one person that looked like me. Not one person that spoke like me. And I started undermining my own capabilities, underestimating my own worth." The compounding problem is this: according to the McKinsey Women in the Workplace 2025 report, women represent 49% of entry-level employees — yet by the time you reach the C-suite, fewer than 29% of those seats belong to women. For every 100 men promoted to their first manager role, only 81 women make the same leap. The "broken rung" is real, and self-doubt is one of the forces that keeps it broken. The cost of unchecked self-doubt is not just personal — it is organizational. Women who silence themselves in meetings, decline stretch assignments, or step back from promotions because they do not feel "ready" are costing their companies their most strategic asset: authentic, experienced, high-EQ leadership. The good news? Shelmina's own career is proof that the cycle can be broken — and the tool she used is available to every woman listening right now. Introducing the Power Quotient (PQ): Your Most Underused Leadership Asset Most leaders are familiar with IQ (intellectual intelligence) and EQ (emotional intelligence). Shelmina introduces a third: PQ — Power Quotient. "We own the power to intentionally pick an empowering response to a disempowering stimulus, whether that stimulus is internal or external. That's your PQ. And the internal stimulus must be taken care of first, before we can fight the external." This is not a motivational concept. It is a cognitive framework with three operating principles: PQ Principle 1: Recognize the Voice of Fear — Without Obeying It The voice of fear is not your enemy. It is doing exactly what it evolved to do: keep you in your comfort zone. The moment you recognize that the whisper saying "they'll find out you don't belong" is just a voice — not a fact — you reclaim agency over it. Shelmina's turning point came during her first year at a major tech employer. She was sitting in a meeting, holding back an idea. Then she watched someone else state her exact idea — and receive praise for it. "That was the first time I recognized that my ideas do matter," she says. "And once I had that inner victory, everything changed." Try This Now: The next time you catch yourself editing an idea before you say it, ask: "Is this my voice of fear or my voice of courage speaking?" Name it. That naming alone is the beginning of PQ. PQ Principle 2: Feed Your Voice of Courage With Reasons Courage is not the absence of fear. It is acting despite fear — and it grows when you actively give it ammunition. Shelmina calls this "feeding your voice of courage," and it is a deliberate, intentional practice. In her case, the reason was visceral: "If I didn't speak up, they would not extend my visa. My dream of lifting my family out of poverty would be over." That reason was more powerful than her fear. Your reason does not need to be that dramatic — but it does need to be real to you. Effective reasons to feed your voice of courage include: The impact your idea could have on your team or clients The career advancement that depends on your visibility The women who will follow in your footsteps if you blaze this trail The competencies you will build only by speaking up and stretching PQ Principle 3: Make Your Voice of Courage Louder Than Your Voice of Fear This is the practice. Not silencing fear — but systematically amplifying courage until it drowns fear out. "I made my voice of courage louder than my voice of fear," Shelmina says, "by feeding it reasons why I should do something, as opposed to reasons why I shouldn't." This maps directly to what 2026 executive presence research identifies as the core of leadership gravitas: decisiveness under pressure and emotional self-regulation. Leaders who can redirect internal narratives in high-stakes moments are the ones who get promoted, trusted, and retained. How to Show Your Worth Without Waiting to Be Noticed One of the most actionable insights from Shelmina's work is this: showing your worth is not self-promotion. It is a strategic practice of continuously positioning yourself to contribute higher and higher value — and then ensuring the right people have a front-row seat to that contribution. "Show your worth, in the context of my book, is the value you contribute towards the success of your organization," Shelmina explains. "The recognition that I have something to contribute is the beginning of understanding your worth. And then the journey is: how do I continuously position myself to contribute more?" This has four dimensions that mirror 2026's most sought-after leadership competencies: Competencies — continuously building the skills that drive organizational outcomes Confidence — the deep-seated self-trust that comes from doing hard things and surviving them Relationships — intentionally building the four key relationships (boss, peers, mentors, sponsors — covered in Part II) Personal branding — ensuring your value is visible, not just felt Worth is not static. It is not something you either have or you don't. "The more competent you become," Shelmina says, "the higher the value you create." It is a compounding cycle — and it begins the moment you decide your ideas matter. Overcoming Negative Mental Chatter: A Framework for Women in Tech Negative mental chatter — the constant inner voice of "I'm not smart enough, I'll sound stupid, they'll find out" — is the presenting symptom of an unchecked voice of fear. Shelmina identifies it as the single biggest barrier she sees in her work with women leaders, and she is specific about how to address it. Step 1: Externalize It Treat negative mental chatter the way you would treat a notification on your phone: notice it, acknowledge it, then decide whether to engage. The chatter loses power the moment you observe it rather than inhabit it. Step 2: Name the Fear Underneath Is it fear of failure? Fear of judgment? Fear of stepping outside your comfort zone? Fear of being seen as someone who doesn't belong? Naming the specific fear collapses it from a fog into a manageable object. You can work with a named fear. You cannot work with a fog. Step 3: Reframe the Outcome "There is no such thing as failure," Shelmina says. "There are only various degrees of success." Every stretch assignment, every meeting where you spoke up and it didn't land perfectly, every project that didn't go as planned — these are data....
Send us Fan MailOn this episode of the Stories to Create Podcast, Cornell Bunting sits down with Shalonda Washington — award-winning entrepreneur, transformation speaker, mindset coach, nonprofit leader, and respected businesswoman known throughout Southwest Florida as “The Permit Queen.”With more than 30 years of experience as the CEO and Founder of Reliable Permitting & BSS, Shalonda has built a reputation as a trusted expert in construction administration and building permitting, helping contractors, homeowners, realtors, investors, and business professionals navigate complex processes and achieve success.Beyond business, Shalonda is passionate about empowering others to rise above obstacles, unlock their full potential, and pursue purpose-driven lives. As a sought-after transformation speaker and mindset coach, she shares powerful insights across business, nonprofit leadership, women's empowerment, and personal growth.In this inspiring conversation, Shalonda opens up about entrepreneurship, resilience, overcoming adversity, leadership, family, faith, and what it means to continue climbing while lifting others along the way.A proud wife of 31 years, mother of five, grandmother, and community leader, Shalonda also co-leads a nonprofit ministry alongside her husband, serving youth and families in the Immokalee community. Through her initiative, A Day With Sho, she continues creating spaces designed to elevate and empower women in business and leadership.Recognized for her impact through numerous awards and nominations and celebrated for her remarkable journey from challenge to achievement, Shalonda Washington reminds us that resilience, vision, and purpose can create extraordinary outcomes.This episode is filled with wisdom, inspiration, and practical insight for entrepreneurs, leaders, and anyone striving to build a life of impact.Because here on the Stories to Create Podcast… we do not just tell stories—We create them. Support the showThank you for tuning in with EHAS CLUB - Stories to Create Podcast
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