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What will work look like in the next chapter of your life? And where do women fit into today's rapidly changing economy?In this fascinating conversation, Katana Abbott speaks with Corinne Goble, CEO of the Association of Women Business Centers, about the growing opportunities for women entrepreneurs — and the critical mistakes many women make when starting and scaling a business.Corinne shares her remarkable personal journey from growing up in a motorcycle gang environment to leading a national organization supporting women-owned businesses across America. Together, she and Katana explore how women are redefining entrepreneurship, innovation, and leadership in today's economy.They discuss emerging opportunities in AI, the care economy, social impact businesses, technology-driven entrepreneurship, and why women may be uniquely positioned to thrive in this next era of business.You'll also hear practical advice about:Why business planning matters more than passion aloneThe biggest funding mistakes women entrepreneurs makeHow personal credit can impact future business growthThe difference between creating a business versus creating a jobWhy understanding your numbers builds confidenceHow technology is lowering barriers for women entrepreneursWhy the “care economy” may become one of the biggest growth sectors of the futureCorinne also introduces listeners to Hope2Women.org, a national gateway connecting women to coaching, training, funding resources, and Women's Business Centers across the country. Whether you're launching a business, considering a second-act career, or simply curious about where the economy is heading, this episode offers powerful insight, inspiration, and practical wisdom for women ready to build what's next. Corinne Goble is the CEO of the Association of Women Business Centers, a national organization supporting a network of more than 140 Women's Business Centers across the United States. With a background spanning entrepreneurship, corporate leadership, and nonprofit advocacy, Corinne is passionate about helping women launch, grow, and scale successful businesses. She is a national voice on women's entrepreneurship, innovation, access to capital, and the future of women in the economy. You can learn more about Corrine at Hope2Women.org. Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. The views, opinions, experiences, and recommendations expressed by the host and guests are not intended as financial, investment, legal, tax, business, medical, or other professional advice. Every individual's circumstances are unique, and listeners should consult qualified professionals before making decisions related to their finances, business ventures, investments, health, or legal matters. Smart Women Talk is designed to inspire conversation, learning, and personal growth, and any actions taken based on the content of this program are solely the responsibility of the listener.
Who has shaped the way you lead—and who are you shaping in return? In part two of this live panel from the Women Who Lead event, the conversation turns to mentorship, influence, and the responsibility of pouring into others. From lessons learned from mothers and mentors to practical advice on overcoming self-doubt and building meaningful relationships, this episode offers encouragement for women navigating leadership at every stage. You'll also hear how intentional support and connection—both personally and through Story Financial Partners associates—can create lasting impact across generations.
When people think about relocation, they often picture moving trucks, paperwork, and logistics. But behind every corporate move is a team of professionals helping families navigate one of life's biggest transitions. Joining me today are three incredible relocation leaders, Katie Adams, Linda Lindenmoyer, and Jill Wylie, sharing what it really takes to guide people through change while balancing leadership, service, and problem solving behind the scenes at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices. Grab your cafecito and get ready for a conversation about leadership, relocation, and what it takes to help people move forward during major life transitions. Meet The Leaders Katie Adams, Vice President of Corporate Relocation and Business Development at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Ambassador Real Estate Linda Lindenmoyer, Vice President of Relocation Services for Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty and Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Realty Jill Wylie, Vice President of Relocation Services for Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Drysdale Properties Why Relocation Is More Complex Than People Realize Many people assume relocation is simply coordinating moves and paperwork. The reality looks very different. Families leave behind routines, schools, careers, and support systems. Companies face hiring timelines, housing challenges, and employee transitions. Behind every move are countless moving pieces happening at once. These leaders shared how relocation professionals often balance corporate expectations, communication with agents, housing challenges, timelines, and unexpected problems while helping families feel supported during major life changes. Leading Through Uncertainty Great leadership matters most when challenges appear. Relocation professionals solve problems daily, whether that means helping families settle into a new community, finding unexpected solutions, or helping people navigate uncertainty during stressful transitions. Strong leadership often comes down to staying calm under pressure, listening well, communicating clearly, and focusing on solutions rather than problems. Building Success Through Relationships Long-term success in relocation is built on trust. Whether supporting families, agents, relocation management companies, or corporate clients, strong relationships remain at the center of everything. Because relocation is not simply about moving people from one place to another. It is about helping people move forward with confidence. Leadership Advice, Books, and Quotes Linda shared a favorite verse that guides her leadership approach: "Let all that you do be done in love." 1 Corinthians 16:14 Jill recommended Atomic Habits and You Are a Badass by Jen Sincero. She also shared a leadership principle that stood out to her: "Leadership is not about being in charge. It's about taking care of those in your charge." Katie shared one of her favorite reminders from Maya Angelou: "People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." When you help another woman rise, we all shine. And that's how we make an impact. So, let's build each other up and shine brighter than the sun. For more great content from Teresa, connect with her on LinkedIn, join her Women Who Lead Series on Facebook, and subscribe to her YouTube channel. You can find more episodes of Women Who Lead on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and anywhere else podcasts can be found. This episode is brought to you in part by Venus et Fleur. Are you looking for a great way to show appreciation to family, friends, or even customers? Give them a floral arrangement they won't forget anytime soon. These beautiful arrangements make the perfect closing gift for any realtor to stay top of mind. Visit venusetfleur.com and use code "hsoa20" when ordering for 20% off.
A powerful new wave of youth leadership is reshaping the literary world, and teenage author Kavya Thakrar is right at the forefront. With the release of her remarkable debut book, Bows and Ties, this inspiring young voice is doing more than just writing—she is actively redefining what female empowerment looks like for the next generation. Sparking an Intergenerational Conversation At its core, Bows and Ties serves as a vibrant, essential catalyst for a much-needed intergenerational conversation about modern sisterhood. Thakrar brilliantly bridges the gap between generations, creating a shared space where women of all ages can connect, pass down wisdom, and find common ground. By exploring the unique challenges and triumphs of today's young women, the book acts as both a mirror for Gen Z and a window for those who wish to support them. Amplifying Women's Voices and Leadership Thakrar's narrative does not just tell a story; it issues a powerful call to action. Bows and Ties is dedicated to: Amplifying Diverse Voices: Giving a microphone to the nuanced experiences of young women navigating a complex modern world. Fostering Community: Inspiring women and girls to actively connect, break down silos, and build unbreakable networks of support. Cultivating Future Leaders: Encouraging the next generation to step into their power, lead with empathy, and lift one another up as they climb. Why 'Bows and Ties' is a Must-Read In an era where digital connection often replaces deep, meaningful community, Bows and Ties reminds us of the undeniable strength found in collective female solidarity. Whether you are a young woman looking for inspiration, a mentor aiming to understand the mindset of today's youth, or a book club seeking a deeply moving read, Kavya Thakrar's debut is a masterclass in modern empowerment. Keep this brilliant young author on your radar—Kavya Thakrar is just getting started, and Bows and Ties is a movement you'll want to be a part of. Follow: @bowsandtiesbook - Ready to ignite the spark that levels up your entire life? Meet Ash Brown—the American powerhouse, motivational architect, and ultimate hype-woman dedicated to your personal and professional evolution. Ash is far more than a voice in the personal development space; she is a trusted ally who delivers a masterclass in real-talk wisdom and infectious energy. Whether you are navigating a crossroads or ready to scale your grandest ambitions, Ash fuels your journey with a high-octane blend of heart and hustle.
In this bold and eye-opening episode of Daily Spark with Dr. Angela (radio), we're redefining how access works in your life, your leadership, and your relationships. “Access Is Not Entitlement” challenges the idea that everyone deserves unlimited time, energy, or proximity to you. Dr. Angela unpacks how high-capacity women, leaders, and purpose-driven individuals often overextend themselves—and how to reset expectations without guilt. If you've ever felt drained, overcommitted, or constantly “on,” this episode will help you understand the importance of boundaries, energy management, and intentional presence. In this episode, you'll learn:Why access is a privilege, not a rightHow overexposure can dilute your impact and authorityThe difference between availability and accessibilityHow to establish clear boundaries around your time and energyWays to teach others how to engage with you respectfullyThis conversation is your reminder that protecting your peace, your time, and your presence is not selfish—it's leadership. When you value your access, others will too.
Before you lead a team, a platform, or a purpose… are you leading yourself well?Everything changes when leadership starts within.In this empowering episode of Daily Spark with Dr. Angela (radio), we explore the foundation of true leadership: self-leadership. “Lead Yourself First” is a powerful reminder that how you manage your thoughts, emotions, habits, and discipline directly impacts how others experience you—in business, media, ministry, and everyday life. Dr. Angela breaks down the connection between internal alignment and external influence, showing why leadership is not just about visibility or authority, but about consistency, integrity, and personal responsibility. If you've been striving to grow, lead, or elevate in any area of your life, this episode will challenge you to look inward first—and build from there. In this episode, you'll discover:Why self-leadership is the foundation of effective leadershipHow your daily habits shape your credibility and influenceThe importance of emotional discipline and mindset managementHow to build self-trust through consistency and follow-throughAligning your leadership with faith, purpose, and integrityThis conversation will help you stop waiting for others to change and start showing up as the leader you're called to be—first in your own life.
One in five women you work with is in some phase of menopause. It starts earlier than we knew, and the first symptoms are often neurological rather than physical. Listen as four women from ILTA's Women Who Lead committee get real about menopause, the professional toll no one talks about, and the first US state law that's changing the conversation for women in the workplace.
When you're leading a team of agents, the goal isn't just performance. It's creating a lasting impact that shows up in how your agents serve their clients. Joining me today are three powerhouse leaders, Debra Fortin, Whitney Lenoard, and Pan O'Rorke, sharing how they guide their teams to grow, perform, and make a real difference across Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices. Grab your cafecito and get ready for a conversation on leadership, growth, and what it really takes to build a strong real estate team. Meet the Leaders Debra Fortin, Director of Operations at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Myrtle Beach Real Estate Whitney Leonard, President at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Carolina Premier Properties Pam O'Rorke, Broker/Owner at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Benchmark Realty How Their Leadership Journey Started Pam didn't plan on a career in real estate. While at a baseball game with her kids, a simple conversation with another mom led to an unexpected opportunity. One year later, she earned her broker's license. Not long after, she was handed the keys to the business and eventually purchased the company. Since 2001, she's been leading agents and building a culture rooted in growth and long-term success. Whitney's path into leadership started with a moment she didn't expect. After beginning as an individual agent, she walked into her broker's office and saw her name written on a board. When she asked about it, she learned it was part of a vision to grow the company and bring in new leadership. That moment changed everything. More than 20 years later, she continues to lead, grow, and inspire agents across multiple offices. Debra's journey began after her children started school, when she stepped into real estate as a relocation specialist. Her work ethic quickly stood out, leading to an opportunity in leadership. Over the years, she led multiple offices before relocating to Myrtle Beach. Even after planning to slow down, her passion for leadership brought her back, where she now leads and continues to grow a team of agents. What Leadership Really Requires Each of these leaders shared a common truth. Leadership is not easy, and it's not always visible from the outside. It requires staying calm in uncertainty, guiding agents through challenges, and showing up every day with consistency and purpose. As Debra puts it, leadership is not about being liked. It's about being trusted. Whitney also highlighted the reality that leaders are always "on," constantly encouraging and motivating their teams, no matter what's happening behind the scenes. Building Teams That Thrive Strong teams don't happen by accident. They're built through intentional leadership, shared support, and a culture people want to be part of. For Debra, strong teams start with trust. She focuses on developing her agents through guidance, support, and continuous learning. By staying consistent and helping agents navigate challenges, she creates an environment where they can grow with confidence. Whitney leads with intention, creating a culture that naturally draws in the right people. She understands that not everyone is the right fit and protects that environment while continuing to motivate and guide her team forward. Pam's approach centers on relationships and selectivity. She's built a close-knit team by being thoughtful about who joins and by helping agents understand the "why" behind their work, giving them the clarity and confidence to succeed. Recommended Resources Over the years, Debra has followed industry voices like Brian Buffini, who taught her to always stay learning. She shares how his podcast and coaching have helped her stay grounded in relationship-based business and personal growth. Pam recommends the book The Power of TED, a short but impactful read that explores the roles people fall into, like the fixer, victim, and creator. It challenged her perspective on leadership, especially the idea that growth comes from guiding and empowering others rather than trying to fix everything for them. Whitney points to The Strangest Secret by Earl Nightingale, a classic that centers on the idea that we become what we think about. She also lives by a simple principle: focus on what you can control, your attitude and your actions. When you help another woman rise, we all shine. And that's how we make an impact. So, let's build each other up and shine brighter than the sun. For more great content from Teresa, connect with her on LinkedIn, join her Women Who Lead Series on Facebook, and subscribe to her YouTube channel. You can find more episodes of Women Who Lead on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and anywhere else podcasts can be found. This episode is brought to you in part by Venus et Fleur. Are you looking for a great way to show appreciation to family, friends, or even customers? Give them a floral arrangement they won't forget anytime soon. These beautiful arrangements make the perfect closing gift for any realtor to stay top of mind. Visit venusetfleur.com and use code "hsoa20" when ordering for 20% off.
In this episode, Wyatt sits down with Bethany Allen, a pastor and leadership development leader, to explore her journey stepping into leadership as a woman in ministry and organizational life. Bethany shares how her faith, education, and lived experiences have shaped her approach to leadership, as well as the challenges and opportunities she has encountered along the way. We also discuss practical ways other women early in their careers can build confidence, embrace their strengths, and grow into leadership roles with authenticity and purpose. This conversation offers both personal insight and actionable guidance for anyone seeking to lead with impact in their own context. Bethany Allen is the Pastor of Spiritual Formation and Leadership Development at Bridgetown Church in Portland, where she focuses on empowering individuals to grow spiritually and step into their calling. Native Exiles is a podcast from Alderwood Community Church, where we talk about following Jesus in the tension of being in the world but not of it. For more questions and inquiries, reach at hello@alderwood.cc or visit us on our website at alderwood.cc/ne/.
Are you constantly moving, producing, and showing up—but secretly feeling drained?What if the most powerful move you could make right now… is to pause?In this empowering episode of Daily Spark with Dr. Angela (radio), we're reframing one of the most misunderstood concepts in high-performance culture: rest. “Give Yourself Permission to Pause” is a timely message for high-capacity women, leaders, and visionaries who are used to doing it all—but are ready to lead and live more sustainably. Dr. Angela breaks down why pausing is not a sign of weakness, but a strategic decision rooted in wisdom, faith, and long-term effectiveness. If you've been pushing through exhaustion, ignoring your need for rest, or equating your worth with productivity, this episode offers a refreshing and necessary reset. You'll gain insight into:Why rest is a leadership strategy, not a luxuryHow to recognize the difference between healthy momentum and hidden burnoutThe importance of spiritual, emotional, and mental restorationHow pausing can actually increase clarity, creativity, and directionLetting go of guilt and embracing rest as part of your purposeThis conversation is your reminder that you don't have to earn rest—you are allowed to receive it. When you pause with intention, you don't fall behind… you realign.
In this powerful episode of The Clarity Mandate Podcast, Dr. Vivian Atud delivers a data-driven analysis on one of the most underexamined leadership truths of our time: female leadership consistently delivers strong national outcomes—yet remains underutilized globally.Moving beyond ideology and surface-level narratives, this episode explores evidence from global institutions such as the IMF, World Bank, and leading academic research, revealing patterns in governance, crisis response, and long-term development outcomes under female leadership.From New Zealand under Jacinda Ardern to Germany under Angela Merkel and Finland under Sanna Marin, the data highlights measurable advantages in:Crisis decision-makingPublic trust and communicationGovernance transparencyStrategic investment in education and healthcareBut this is not a conversation about gender—it is a conversation about performance, systems design, and leadership effectiveness.Dr. Atud breaks down:Why leadership is fundamentally a decision architecture functionHow governance outcomes reflect leadership prioritiesWhat crisis leadership reveals about cognitive disciplineThe real reason behind underrepresentation: structural barriers—not capability gapsAfrica's unique opportunity to redefine leadership models for the futureThis episode challenges conventional thinking and confronts a critical question:Can we afford to ignore high-performing leadership capacity—wherever it exists?If you care about leadership transformation, governance, systems thinking, and sustainable development, this episode will reshape how you evaluate leadership effectiveness.female leadership effectiveness, women in leadership data, governance outcomes women leaders, leadership performance analysis, Africa leadership transformation, decision making in leadership, crisis leadership examples, gender and governance research, leadership systems design, transformational leadership podcast#FemaleLeadership#LeadershipTransformation#WomenInLeadership#Governance#AfricaRising#SystemsThinking#LeadershipStrategy#DecisionMaking#PublicPolicy#TransformationalLeadership#LeadershipMatters#DataDrivenLeadership#GlobalLeadership#FutureOfLeadership#ClarityMandate
April 16, 2026 ~ Ann Thomas, Program Director WJR, Host and Executive Producer of Women Who Lead joins Mark Hollis in for Paul W. Smith. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
This is a conversation you don't want to miss. Dr. Lisa Hinkelman from Ruling Our eXperiences (ROX) joins us to celebrate Women's History Month. Learn how she got the idea to start this incredible nonprofit, the impact they're making for the next generation of girls, and why building confidence, leadership, and authentic connections has never been more important.
Women Who Lead Spiritual Salon | Featuring Wendy GunnIn this episode of Women Who Lead Spiritual Salon, Dr. Angela Chester is joined by Wendy Gunn for a meaningful conversation on leadership, mindset, and spiritual alignment.Together, they explore what it takes for women to lead with clarity and confidence while staying grounded in faith. Wendy shares insights from her leadership journey, offering perspective on trusting your voice, navigating responsibility, and doing the inner work required to lead well.This episode speaks to women in ministry, business, and community spaces who are seeking to grow as leaders without losing their sense of purpose, peace, or spiritual direction.If you've been navigating your next level of leadership, this conversation will meet you with both encouragement and truth.Connect with Wendy online: TheWendyGunn.com
Leadership is sacred, and when you hold many roles, it is easy to pour out more than you pour in. The Salon was created to help you reconnect to your spiritual identity and revive your leadership presence.Dawn, also known as “The BraveHeart Mentor,” hosts a podcast called " The BraveHearted Woman,” a program that calls out the vision of women who want to reach for their BRAVE. A conference with the same name will make its debut this fall, 2021.As a popular keynote and conference speaker, Dawn is engaging and dynamic; a communicator who inspires her audiences to maximize their divine purpose and potential.Connect with her online:The BraveHearted Woman: https://www.braveheartedwoman.comDawn Damon: https://www.dawndamon.com
When you design with intention and lead with purpose, you build something worth remembering. My three guests joining me today, Robbie Roberts, Dianne Gordon, and Blossom Vernon, are true business architects who build for any market. Their advice moves beyond surface level strategies and into what actually creates a sustainable business. Meet the Leaders Blossom described real estate as a calling shaped by her early exposure to construction and family influence. Robbie's path began after being recruited during her own home sale, where mentorship and professionalism stood out. Diane entered from construction and leaned into operations, building success by supporting others. Leadership Gets Tested When It's Hard Diane walked into the 2008 market and realized she did not fully understand sales. Instead of pretending, she listened and focused on helping agents navigate the business side during difficult times. Robbie shared the challenge of watching agents leave and learning not to take it personally. Blossom spoke about the emotional weight of leadership and how those moments built her discipline and resilience. Systems Create Consistency Success is not about motivation. It is about structure. Robbie emphasizes written goals and daily accountability. Blossom's "Breakfast Club" tracks calls, wins, and progress each week. Diane focuses on innovation, testing new ideas and adapting quickly when needed. Culture and Purpose Culture is built daily. Robbie reinforces it through personal recognition. Blossom creates accountability while celebrating wins. Diane provides structure while giving agents room to grow. Blossom said it best. Everything starts with understanding the why. When you know the why, decisions, systems, and conversations become clear. The Legacy Diane leads with fairness and growth. Robbie leads with care and accessibility. Blossom leads with structure and purpose. Because in the end, people remember how you made them feel and how you helped them grow. Favorite Quotes / Principles Blossom Vernon: "If a day goes by and I have not learned something new, it's a day wasted." Her focus is continuous learning and growth every single day. Diane Gordonn: She likes to follow the Rotary Four-Way Test: Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? Will it be beneficial to all concerned? Bonus: Will it be fun? She uses this as a decision-making framework in leadership and life. Robbie Roberts: "If you carry old bricks, you keep building the same house." A reminder to embrace change and not stay stuck in old habits. When you help another woman rise, we all shine. And that's how we make an impact. So, let's build each other up and shine brighter than the sun. For more great content from Teresa, connect with her on LinkedIn, join her Women Who Lead Series on Facebook, and subscribe to her YouTube channel. You can find more episodes of Women Who Lead on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and anywhere else podcasts can be found. This episode is brought to you in part by Venus et Fleur. Are you looking for a great way to show appreciation to family, friends, or even customers? Give them a floral arrangement they won't forget anytime soon. These beautiful arrangements make the perfect closing gift for any realtor to stay top of mind. Visit venusetfleur.com and use code "hsoa20" when ordering for 20% off.
What does strong leadership really look like in today's world? Recorded live at the Women Who Lead event and hosted by the Madison County, Mississippi Professional Women's Group, this episode features Pam Gordon, Leanne Stamper, Tina Lakey, and Lauren McGraw sharing honest stories about business, family, faith, and community. From building a business without confidence to leading with conviction and purpose, this conversation stresses the importance of mentorship, personal ownership, and surrounding yourself with the right people. You'll also hear how faith shapes leadership, why positivity is a choice, and how meaningful relationships may transform both your work and your life.
What does resilience really look like in today's rapidly evolving workplace? In this episode, Julia Montgomery, Beverley Seche, Nicole Monroe, and Doreen Kaminsky from the Women Who Lead Committee discuss the inspiration and themes behind Women Who Lead: Catalyst, and why resilience has become one of the most critical skills for the future of leadership. Haven't registered for Catalyst yet? Register now: https://www.iltanet.org/live-events/catalyst
Hays Post reporter Cristina Janney chats with Nancy Jeter with Women Who Lead Listen Here
Fan Mail: Tell Wendy how you're saying yes to yourself!Explore Wendy's bespoke experiences in 2026: Space to Dream: Workshops Around the WorldEdinburgh July 6-10 Walnut Grove Cookery Aug. 27 - Sept. 2More Trips & ExperiencesQuestions? Email Wendy!In this episode, Wendy sits down with Bianca D'Alessio, real estate entrepreneur and author of Mastering Intentions: 10 Practices to Amplify Your Power and Lead with Lasting Impact, who knows what it's like when everything starts working. Not the hustle-and-grind kind of working—the aligned, ease-filled, things-fall-into-place kind of working. The kind that comes after you've been through seasons of difficulty and built the resilience to shift.They explore:Why you don't need to qualify your desires or explain every step of your journey to make someone else comfortableHow to stop living in the version of yourself from 6 versions agoWhy giving people grace for where they are on their journey changes how you show upThis is a conversation about alignment, inspired action, and recognizing that we're all crossing paths at different points in time. What if you stopped waiting for the world to understand and just said yes to yourself anyway?Connect with Bianca:Get her book, Mastering Intentions: 10 Practices to Amplify Your Power and Lead with Lasting ImpactInstagram @biancadalessioLinkedInbiancadalessio.comReferenced in this Episode:The Numerology of Endings and Renewal | Dina BerrinCoffee Chat with Dina Berrin________________________________________________________________________________________ Connect with Wendy: LinkedinInstagram: @phineaswrighthouseFacebook: Phineas Wright House Website: Phineas Wright House PWH Farm StaysPWH Curated Experience and Travel Interested in being a guest on the show? Send your pitch to podcast@phineaswrighthouse.com Podcast Production By Shannon Warner of Resonant Collective Want to start your own podcast? Let's chat! If this episode resonated, follow Say YES to Yourself! and leave a 5-star review. It helps more women in midlife discover the tools, stories, and community that make saying YES not only possible, but powerful.
Steadfast leadership isn't about perfection. It's about presence, purpose, and people. But how can you define it in your current leadership role? Joining me in this month's series are three steadfast leaders, Amy Gant, Jackie Ready, and Maryann Vitale Alles, sharing stories that will help you lead with greater clarity, courage, and consistency. Grab your cafécito and get ready to be inspired. Meet The Leaders Maryann Vitale Alles is the CEO and President of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Select Properties, one of the Midwest's most respected brokerages. She began her leadership journey with a passion for real estate and helping others build their careers, earning a reputation as a thoughtful and grounded leader. Amy Gant is Senior Vice President and Regional Manager at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties. She came to real estate from the media world and quickly discovered a passion for leadership and developing others. Jackie Ready is the Broker/Owner of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Panoramic Properties on the Gulf Coast of Mississippi. She began in economic development in Laurel, Mississippi, before moving into real estate, eventually becoming a managing broker and then purchasing and rebranding her own brokerage. Overcoming Adversity and Self-Doubt Each leader shares their stories of overcoming career-defining challenges and moments of self-doubt. Jackie talks about the difficult season after purchasing her brokerage, balancing staff changes and new motherhood, and how her commitment to her team kept her going. Amy shares how the sudden loss of her family's primary income pushed her into leadership, calling it the best decision of her life. Maryann reflects on building resilience while leading a company through skepticism and doubt, emphasizing the power of transparency and clear communication. Together, they highlight how authenticity, strong relationships, and supportive teams help leaders and their organizations thrive during uncertainty. Empowerment, Culture, and Succession What does true empowerment look like in leadership? Each leader shares how they empower others and how you can do the same for your team. Amy notes that culture isn't surface-level; it's built by setting high standards, holding people accountable, and celebrating wins and learning from failures together. Mentorship, collaboration, and individualized support are key, and a leader's success is reflected in the growth of those they guide. Succession planning is another focus, with Maryann stressing the importance of helping agents prepare for transitions. Jackie and Amy add that honest conversations and proactive training are essential to keep both seasoned and new talent thriving. Personal Influences Every leader has someone who shaped their journey, and each of my guests shares who made the biggest impact. Amy expresses deep gratitude for the early guidance I gave her as a new agent, sharing a heartfelt story about how mentorship helped her grow in real estate. Jackie names her mother as her greatest influence. Her mother's immigrant journey, intentional living, and resilience inspired Jackie to prioritize meaningful choices and protect her energy. Maryann credits her father and her business partner, Deb, for guiding her leadership. Her father taught her work ethic and relationship-building from an early age. Deb has always believed in her potential, showing the power of strong, trusted support. Favorite Books, Advice, and Quotes Amy Gant Advice to Her Younger Self: Remember, "People matter. Treat them with kindness, integrity, and respect, and that's all you'll need to know. Everything else falls into place." Jackie Ready Favorite Book: Atomic Habits by James Clear Advice to Her Younger Self: "Protect your energy. Really keep your circle with the energy you're seeking, surrounding yourself with the right people." Maryann Vitale Alles Quotes/Beliefs: "Lead with integrity even when it's hard. Making the right decisions over time compounds, and you have to just make the decision and trust your instinct." When you help another woman rise, we all shine. And that's how we make an impact. So, let's build each other up and shine brighter than the sun. For more great content from Teresa, connect with her on LinkedIn, join her Women Who Lead Series on Facebook, and subscribe to her YouTube channel. You can find more episodes of Women Who Lead on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and anywhere else podcasts can be found. This episode is brought to you in part by Venus et Fleur. Are you looking for a great way to show appreciation to family, friends, or even customers? Give them a floral arrangement they won't forget anytime soon. These beautiful arrangements make the perfect closing gift for any realtor to stay top of mind. Visit venusetfleur.com and use code "hsoa20" when ordering for 20% off.
Subscribe: Spotify | TuneIn | RSS Hanna Kemble-Mick, school counselor, dean of elementary school counseling, Indian Hills Elementary School, Topeka, Kansas. Hanna is a 2025 School Counselor of the Year® finalist, Therapy Dog mom, and Tech/AI enthusiast. I met Hanna through her mom, Jerri Kemble, when they were presenting with firefly wings. Then I had a one-to-one conversation with Hanna, and that was it… she had to be a guest on my show. Your WHY and What Brings You Joy My “why” is building schools where students are truly seen, where creativity is valued, and where opportunity is not reserved for a lucky few. I root for the underdog, the underserved, and students in rural communities who deserve the same expansive possibilities as anyone else. What brings me joy is connection, continuous learning, dogs, polka dots, and the everyday magic of my students growing into who they are meant to be. Your Background (what it was like in school, growing up, what you always wanted to be) I grew up in a rural community with a big heart, where everyone knew each other and helping others was simply part of everyday life. My parents, Kurt and Jerri Kemble, modeled what it meant to show up for others, and that spirit carried through our town. All of my grandparents lived nearby, so my childhood was filled with time around their kitchen tables, lending a hand to neighbors, and taking part in community service. When I was little, I dreamed of becoming a veterinarian because of my love for animals. I loved school and felt connected there until my senior year, when my mom became superintendent, and I transferred to the district where she worked. Suddenly, I felt out of place. In true teenage fashion, I joined the track team and filmed basketball games, volunteering for anything that would get me out of the building. Even then, I was learning how much belonging and environment shape a person's experience. I am fortunate to have a loving family and live in Lawrence, Kansas, with my husband, Dalton, two dogs, and a cat. Becoming a School Counselor: Describe what it meant to you when you figured out your calling. I graduated from college with a degree in advertising and began a career I genuinely enjoyed. I loved my job and deeply respected my boss, but something within me kept whispering that the work was not fulfilling my soul. I knew I wanted to make a different impact, so I decided to return to school to become a counselor. My boss met that decision with incredible kindness, allowing me to continue working while attending graduate school full-time, a generosity I have never forgotten. When I first contacted the counseling program, the response felt uncertain and discouraging. There were questions about whether this path was truly right for me and how a background in marketing and advertising fit into the counseling world. While I understand their perspective now, at the time, it planted seeds of imposter syndrome and left me wondering if I truly belonged. Yet, as the program continued, so did my clarity of purpose. I discovered that the skills I brought with me, including communication, creativity, understanding people, and connecting messages to meaning, were not detours but strengths. Looking back, I would not change the path at all. It shaped my resilience, deepened my empathy, and affirmed that this calling was exactly where I was meant to be. Junior Coaches Program Junior Coaches began as a restorative program designed to support students who struggle with peer conflict and behavior by building problem-solving skills and confidence. The group included older students who practiced these skills together and then took them to recess, where they supported younger students in navigating conflicts and challenges. This felt more comfortable and natural for them than stepping into that role with their own classmates, and it gave them a meaningful way to lead. Paws and Claws grew alongside it as a project-based learning group where students design, create, and donate pet products to a local animal shelter. I love both of these groups because they move beyond simply talking about skills and instead create depth through authentic skill-building. Students are not just learning what to do. They are practicing empathy, responsibility, collaboration, and problem-solving in real and meaningful ways. School Counselor of the Year 2025 Finalist Being named a 2025 School Counselor of the Year Finalist has been a wild and humbling ride. I still catch myself looking at photos from Capitol Hill and thinking, Did that really happen? It has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. https://videos.schoolcounselor.org/hanna-kemble-mick For a moment, you feel fully seen, valued, and celebrated as an educator and as a school counselor, and I find myself wishing every person in education could experience that kind of affirmation. The connections, friendships, and shared purpose have been next level. This truly feels like the gift of a lifetime. Through this experience, I have built lasting relationships with educators across the country and have had the opportunity to share my message about elevating school counseling and keeping it future-focused through keynotes and presentations in districts and conferences nationwide. I am deeply grateful to ASCA for opening doors I never imagined, and for creating an experience I wish every school counselor could have. Firefly Effect Presentations and more I have had the meaningful opportunity to present alongside my mom through the Firefly Effect and the Life Hack Lab for Women Who Lead. These experiences focus less on quick fixes and more on intentional navigation, introspection, and reflection. Together, we invite participants to pause, examine their paths, and reconnect with their purpose while building the courage to lead with authenticity and resilience. Sharing this work with my mom has made it even more special, blending a personal story with professional insight in a way that resonates deeply with the women we serve. AI Integration and what that means for Educators and School Counselors When I present on AI integration for educators and school counselors, I emphasize intentional use and meaningful impact. Rather than using technology for its own sake, I encourage professionals to ask why they are using it and how it supports students and strengthens their work. We explore how AI can expand access to support, streamline tasks, and open new pathways for learning, while remaining grounded in ethical, safe, and student-centered practices. At the same time, I stress as technology becomes more present in our lives, human skills become even more essential. Skills, like empathy, communication, critical thinking, self-awareness, creativity, and ethical decision-making, empower students to use technology. wisely and to thrive in a rapidly changing world. The goal is not to replace the human element, but to amplify it, empowering counselors and educators to extend their reach, deepen relationships, and better support the growth and well-being of the students they serve. Hanna's Keynote in Mississippi What's next? Speaking engagem ents and presentations, writing a book, giving back to the profession, and continuing to be a champion for students! Hanna's Contact Information LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannakemble/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hanna.kemble Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hannamickedu/ Email: hannamickedu@gmail.com **** I was looking forward to my talk on my virtual porch with Hanna Kemble-Mick. I just loved it and hope you did, too. I knew Hanna was a School Counselor Finalist and an amazing speaker, but I also know her as Jerri Kemble's daughter. When I saw the two of them in their Firefly Wings, I just had to get to know Hanna better. You can see the joy in our selfie from the FETC conference.. Enjoy the post that Hanna created here. Then please share our conversation with your friends. The post Unlock the Power of AI in School Counseling with Hanna Kemble-Mick (EP183) appeared first on Barbara Bray.
Subscribe: Spotify | TuneIn | RSS Hanna Kemble-Mick, school counselor, dean of elementary school counseling, Indian Hills Elementary School, Topeka, Kansas. Hanna is a 2025 School Counselor of the Year® finalist, Therapy Dog mom, and Tech/AI enthusiast. I met Hanna through her mom, Jerri Kemble, when they were presenting with firefly wings. Then I had a one-to-one conversation with Hanna, and that was it… she had to be a guest on my show. Your WHY and What Brings You Joy My “why” is building schools where students are truly seen, where creativity is valued, and where opportunity is not reserved for a lucky few. I root for the underdog, the underserved, and students in rural communities who deserve the same expansive possibilities as anyone else. What brings me joy is connection, continuous learning, dogs, polka dots, and the everyday magic of my students growing into who they are meant to be. Your Background (what it was like in school, growing up, what you always wanted to be) I grew up in a rural community with a big heart, where everyone knew each other and helping others was simply part of everyday life. My parents, Kurt and Jerri Kemble, modeled what it meant to show up for others, and that spirit carried through our town. All of my grandparents lived nearby, so my childhood was filled with time around their kitchen tables, lending a hand to neighbors, and taking part in community service. When I was little, I dreamed of becoming a veterinarian because of my love for animals. I loved school and felt connected there until my senior year, when my mom became superintendent, and I transferred to the district where she worked. Suddenly, I felt out of place. In true teenage fashion, I joined the track team and filmed basketball games, volunteering for anything that would get me out of the building. Even then, I was learning how much belonging and environment shape a person’s experience. I am fortunate to have a loving family and live in Lawrence, Kansas, with my husband, Dalton, two dogs, and a cat. Becoming a School Counselor: Describe what it meant to you when you figured out your calling. I graduated from college with a degree in advertising and began a career I genuinely enjoyed. I loved my job and deeply respected my boss, but something within me kept whispering that the work was not fulfilling my soul. I knew I wanted to make a different impact, so I decided to return to school to become a counselor. My boss met that decision with incredible kindness, allowing me to continue working while attending graduate school full-time, a generosity I have never forgotten. When I first contacted the counseling program, the response felt uncertain and discouraging. There were questions about whether this path was truly right for me and how a background in marketing and advertising fit into the counseling world. While I understand their perspective now, at the time, it planted seeds of imposter syndrome and left me wondering if I truly belonged. Yet, as the program continued, so did my clarity of purpose. I discovered that the skills I brought with me, including communication, creativity, understanding people, and connecting messages to meaning, were not detours but strengths. Looking back, I would not change the path at all. It shaped my resilience, deepened my empathy, and affirmed that this calling was exactly where I was meant to be. Junior Coaches Program Junior Coaches began as a restorative program designed to support students who struggle with peer conflict and behavior by building problem-solving skills and confidence. The group included older students who practiced these skills together and then took them to recess, where they supported younger students in navigating conflicts and challenges. This felt more comfortable and natural for them than stepping into that role with their own classmates, and it gave them a meaningful way to lead. Paws and Claws grew alongside it as a project-based learning group where students design, create, and donate pet products to a local animal shelter. I love both of these groups because they move beyond simply talking about skills and instead create depth through authentic skill-building. Students are not just learning what to do. They are practicing empathy, responsibility, collaboration, and problem-solving in real and meaningful ways. School Counselor of the Year 2025 Finalist Being named a 2025 School Counselor of the Year Finalist has been a wild and humbling ride. I still catch myself looking at photos from Capitol Hill and thinking, Did that really happen? It has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. https://videos.schoolcounselor.org/hanna-kemble-mick For a moment, you feel fully seen, valued, and celebrated as an educator and as a school counselor, and I find myself wishing every person in education could experience that kind of affirmation. The connections, friendships, and shared purpose have been next level. This truly feels like the gift of a lifetime. Through this experience, I have built lasting relationships with educators across the country and have had the opportunity to share my message about elevating school counseling and keeping it future-focused through keynotes and presentations in districts and conferences nationwide. I am deeply grateful to ASCA for opening doors I never imagined, and for creating an experience I wish every school counselor could have. Firefly Effect Presentations and more I have had the meaningful opportunity to present alongside my mom through the Firefly Effect and the Life Hack Lab for Women Who Lead. These experiences focus less on quick fixes and more on intentional navigation, introspection, and reflection. Together, we invite participants to pause, examine their paths, and reconnect with their purpose while building the courage to lead with authenticity and resilience. Sharing this work with my mom has made it even more special, blending a personal story with professional insight in a way that resonates deeply with the women we serve. AI Integration and what that means for Educators and School Counselors When I present on AI integration for educators and school counselors, I emphasize intentional use and meaningful impact. Rather than using technology for its own sake, I encourage professionals to ask why they are using it and how it supports students and strengthens their work. We explore how AI can expand access to support, streamline tasks, and open new pathways for learning, while remaining grounded in ethical, safe, and student-centered practices. At the same time, I stress as technology becomes more present in our lives, human skills become even more essential. Skills, like empathy, communication, critical thinking, self-awareness, creativity, and ethical decision-making, empower students to use technology. wisely and to thrive in a rapidly changing world. The goal is not to replace the human element, but to amplify it, empowering counselors and educators to extend their reach, deepen relationships, and better support the growth and well-being of the students they serve. Hanna’s Keynote in Mississippi What’s next? Speaking engagem ents and presentations, writing a book, giving back to the profession, and continuing to be a champion for students! Hanna’s Contact Information LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannakemble/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hanna.kemble Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hannamickedu/ Email: hannamickedu@gmail.com **** I was looking forward to my talk on my virtual porch with Hanna Kemble-Mick. I just loved it and hope you did, too. I knew Hanna was a School Counselor Finalist and an amazing speaker, but I also know her as Jerri Kemble’s daughter. When I saw the two of them in their Firefly Wings, I just had to get to know Hanna better. You can see the joy in our selfie from the FETC conference.. Enjoy the post that Hanna created here. Then please share our conversation with your friends. The post Unlock the Power of AI in School Counseling with Hanna Kemble-Mick (EP183) appeared first on Barbara Bray.
Send a textFor the 100th episode of In The Suite, I'm sitting down with the woman who made the very first power move in my life — my mother, Joanne Sutera.Long before there were downloads in over 133 countries, before sponsors, before a microphone ever turned on, there was one listener. Her. She believed in this work before there was proof it mattered.Joanne's life is a masterclass in reinvention. She grew up the oldest of nine children in a chaotic household and went on welfare as a teenager. At 18, she left home. At 19, she boarded a bus to New York with $30 in her pocket and no clear roadmap. She became a single mother and sole provider, put herself through nursing school, and later returned to earn her bachelor's degree as an adult student determined to see the world through an educated lens.Over the decades, she built careers in healthcare, entrepreneurship, and international business. She worked inside small, privately held companies, ran operations in a high-end salon, handled international sales, and later taught computer classes aboard an international cruise line. Retirement didn't slow her down. It marked another reinvention — this time as a published poet and longtime docent at Grounds For Sculpture.This conversation is about education as an exit strategy, reinvention at every stage of life, and the courage to leave situations that no longer serve you. It's about resilience as a daily practice, not a personality trait. And it's also about walking through one of the hardest chapters of our lives together as I navigate lung cancer, choosing to stay engaged, creative, and present in the middle of uncertainty.If you are navigating change, considering a bold move, or wondering whether it's too late to start again, this episode is for you.Thank you for being here for 100 episodes.
Join host Mary Nehring and guests Tiffany McLean and LaToya Deese-Richardson for an empowering conversation about advocating for yourself in the workplace. In this episode, the ILTA Women Who Lead team explores why self‑advocacy matters, the barriers many women face, and practical strategies for confidently articulating your value. Through real experiences, actionable tips, and inspiring stories, listeners will gain tools to speak up, seek opportunities, and champion their own growth. To learn more about the Women Who Lead, visit: https://www.iltanet.org/resources/wwl2 To learn more about ILTA's myMentor program, visit: https://www.iltanet.org/resources/mymentor
In this episode of The Maria Fontana Podcast, we're talking about boundaries and why most female founders struggle to hold them without guilt fear or overexplaining.If you're overgiving overworking and constantly available this isn't a time management issue it's a nervous system and self-worth issue. I share how weak boundaries drain your energy distort your leadership and quietly cap your growth and what changes when you learn to lead from self-trust instead of obligation.Strong boundaries create calm confident founders and sustainable businesses.If you're ready to stop leaking energy and start leading with clarity and self-respect, join us inside the Mindset + Alignment Collective where we regulate reset and realign together.
"Hire great people, show them the way, and get out of their way." That advice comes from one of my amazing guest bosses in this episode. How can leaders empower their teams through trust instead of control? Grab your cafécto and join me with my executive influencers Tish Herwig, Kaylin Pound, and Lynn Wheeler as we discuss the biggest challenges agents are facing today and how leaders can help them overcome those obstacles. Meet the Leaders Lynn Willer - President, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Indiana Realty She began her career as an art teacher before finding her home in real estate and has spent over 22 years building teams with clarity, trust, and honest communication. Lynn is passionate about empowering others to grow and thrive while aligning vision and values. Tish Herwig - Managing Broker, Banyan DeVille Her real estate journey started unexpectedly with family support and was shaped by early mentorship with Mike Ferry, inspiring a philosophy of boldness and courage. Tish excels at guiding new licensees, fostering personal growth, and helping her teams navigate change. Kaylin Pound - Senior Regional Vice President, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties She supports her agents through challenges and founded the "Moving Forward" event and Council for those who have lost spouses. Kaylin is celebrated for her authentic empathy, empowering leadership, and helping others find their voice and strength. From Chance to Choice: Career Beginnings Our guests share the unexpected paths that led them to real estate. Lynn talks about moving from teaching to real estate for a more fulfilling challenge. Kaylin and Tish reflect on opportunities that came from temporary roles and family encouragement. Each of their journeys includes moments of self-discovery and the understanding that leadership in real estate is about helping others succeed. Rising Through Adversity Resilience is a common theme for all three leaders. Kaylin overcame a serious physical setback, Lynn navigated toxic work environments, and Tish supported her family through health crises. These experiences gave them deeper empathy for their teams. They explain how personal challenges can become powerful tools for connection, growth, and stronger leadership. Leadership Lessons and Empowerment The panel dives into topics like imposter syndrome, aligning vision and values, and empowering others through listening, stepping back, and encouraging creativity. They stress the importance of trusting great people and giving them room to succeed. Each guest also shares mentors and resources that have shaped their leadership style over the years. Facing Change in Real Estate We discuss the top challenges agents face today, including industry disruption, compensation compression, and communicating value to clients. Our guests offer insights on how embracing change and fostering community can help teams not just survive, but thrive even during uncertain times. Favorite Podcasts, Books, and Quotes Kaylin - Book: Jesus Calling (reads it every morning) Quote: "Life should be led like a calvary charge." Tish - Quote: "Be bold, be brave, and don't let fear paralyze you." (her own saying from the difficult real estate market era) Podcast: Big Conversations Little Bar (a local podcast from the Coachella Valley) Lynn - Quote: "You can't wait in your part of the forest waiting for others to come to you." She also shared a lesson from her first manager (Ed): "Take a nap every day." When you help another woman rise, we all shine. And that's how we make an impact. So, let's build each other up and shine brighter than the sun. For more great content from Teresa, connect with her on LinkedIn, join her Women Who Lead Series on Facebook, and subscribe to her YouTube channel. You can find more episodes of Women Who Lead on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and anywhere else podcasts can be found. This episode is brought to you in part by Venus et Fleur. Are you looking for a great way to show appreciation to family, friends, or even customers? Give them a floral arrangement they won't forget anytime soon. These beautiful arrangements make the perfect closing gift for any realtor to stay top of mind. Visit venusetfleur.com and use code "hsoa20" when ordering for 20% off.
Happy New Year and welcome back to The Settle For More Podcast.If you started January in catch up mode, doing doing doing, trying to get ahead, this episode is for you. In this conversation, we unpack why more effort is not always the answer and how “catching up” quietly impacts decision quality, clarity, boundaries, and leadership presence.I'm walking you through the Be. Do. Have method as a practical operating model to help you define who you are becoming in Q1, practise the competencies that match your leadership standard, and create results without paying for them with exhaustion.By the end of this episode, you'll have a clear Q1 leadership standard, three simple practices you can implement immediately, and a process to stay consistent for the next 90 days.In this episode, we cover:Why catch up mode is not a leadership strategyHow to define the leader you are becoming in Q1The competencies to practise for real momentumHow to create results without the exhaustion taxReflection question:Who are you becoming in Q1, and what will you practise first?
Leadership takes many forms from building high-performing teams to leading with heart, intuition, and purpose. In this episode of Women Who Lead, I'm joined by three powerful women who share how authenticity, courage, and alignment have shaped their leadership journeys. Robin, Athena, and Ruta open up about growth, mindset, and what it really means to lead with intention in today's evolving real estate landscape. Meet the Leaders · Robin Miller Robin brings decades of experience in real estate leadership, known for her thoughtful approach to mentoring, business development, and people-first leadership. She is passionate about helping others grow with clarity, confidence, and purpose. · Athena Petersen Athena is a respected real estate leader and coach who blends strategy with intuition. Her leadership philosophy centers on authenticity, personal growth, and creating environments where individuals and teams can thrive. · Ruta Predkelis Ruta is a dynamic leader recognized for her global perspective, adaptability, and commitment to excellence. She brings a thoughtful, forward-thinking approach to leadership, rooted in continuous learning and meaningful connection. Leadership Journeys & Personal Growth Robin, Athena, and Ruta share how their individual paths into leadership were shaped by experience, self-awareness, and a willingness to evolve. Each reflects on defining moments that helped them step more fully into their roles and trust their leadership voice. Leading with Intention and Authenticity The conversation explores how intentional leadership creates stronger teams and healthier cultures. The guests discuss the importance of presence, self-reflection, and staying aligned with personal values while navigating professional responsibilities. Mindset, Energy, and Influence This segment highlights how mindset and energy directly impact leadership effectiveness. The panel talks about awareness, resilience, and the responsibility leaders have to model emotional intelligence and balance for those they lead. Growth, Adaptability, and the Future of Leadership Robin, Athena, and Ruta reflect on embracing change, staying curious, and continuing to grow both personally and professionally. They emphasize that leadership is not static and that success comes from staying open to learning and new perspectives. Inspirational Thoughts Robin Miller's Uplifting Message: Leadership starts with self-awareness and the courage to lead with integrity, even when the path isn't clear. Athena Petersen's Uplifting Message: True leadership is rooted in authenticity when you lead from who you truly are, others feel empowered to do the same. Ruta Predkelis's Uplifting Message: Growth happens when you remain curious, adaptable, and open to possibility, no matter where you are in your journey. When you help another woman rise, we all shine. That belief is at the heart of Women Who Lead. For more inspiring conversations, connect with Teresa on LinkedIn, join the Women Who Lead Series on Facebook, and subscribe on YouTube. You can find more episodes of Women Who Lead on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and anywhere podcasts are available. This episode is brought to you in part by Venus et Fleur. Are you looking for a great way to show appreciation to family, friends, or even customers? Give them a floral arrangement they won't forget anytime soon. These beautiful arrangements make the perfect closing gift for any realtor to stay top of mind. Visit venusetfleur.com and use code "hsoa20" when ordering for 20% off.
Many of the most powerful leaders on the planet are secretly empathic, intuitive, and deeply sensitive, and have no idea that's what's really driving them. In this episode, Mellissa talks with Julie Jakopic, President and CEO of iLead Strategies, who advises policymakers, elected officials, NGO founders, and humanitarian organizations on the political front lines. Julie is highly respected as a strategist and consultant… and she's also a deep empath, artist, and intuitive. Julie shares how she used to deny her intuition and pay a huge energetic price, how she finally understood that she was feeling other people's feelings, and how she now uses her intuitive gifts to support leaders in one of the most tumultuous, conflict-filled cultures in the US right now. This is a must-listen for any empathic creative or undercover intuitive who wants to stay present, ethical, and effective in a wild and transforming world. In This Episode, You'll Learn: ✅ How intuition shows up long before you have language for it ✅ The hidden cost of pretending to be "all rational" when you're actually empathic ✅ The simple question Julie gives her clients: "Whose feelings are these?" ✅ Why "woo" is often just science we haven't built yet ✅ Small, practical practices to discharge energy and stay resilient in chaos More About Julie Jakopic Julie is the President and Chief Executive Officer at iLead Strategies. She helps visionary leaders and organizations do work that matters and live lives they love. Whether she is working with Fortune 500 executives, elected officials, nonprofit changemakers, or mission-driven founders, Julie helps clients cut through the chaos, get clear on their goals, and build resilient, people-first organizations that actually deliver results. Freebies & Events:
Lindsey Rood-Clifford is the powerhouse President and CEO of Starlight Theater who is ushering in its boldest act yet. As the first woman to helm this iconic venue in its storied 75-year history, she's reshaping a cultural institution with creativity, courage and an unmatched commitment to the community. The arts are more than entertainment, they're essential to turning passion and purpose into a standing ovation, no matter what city you live.Website: https://www.kcstarlight.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Lindz626Check out the conversation on YouTube: https://youtu.be/UWkfiEpRiwI
You don't need a playbook to become a leader, your instincts are your guide.In the latest episode of Books & Beyond, Roopa Kudva, author of Leadership Beyond the Playbook, joins Tara to challenge the formulaic approach to leadership. Instead of giving you a 10-step plan, Roopa hands the steering wheel to you.They dive into why true leadership can't be squeezed into neat frameworks and why the real growth happens when you start looking inward. Roopa shares her own evolution, from asking for a career-changing role to her transition into becoming the CEO of Crisil.They also explore leadership styles, authentic vs. inauthentic communication, and the science of resilience, including how to build it within yourself and across your organisation.Whether you're taking your first step up or navigating a major transition, this episode is an empowering reminder that you are in the driver's seat and get to decide the leader you want to be.Books mentioned in the episode:Personal History by Katharine GrahamAuthors mentioned in the episode:P.G. WodehouseAgatha Christie ‘Books and Beyond with Bound' is the podcast where Tara Khandelwal and Michelle D'costa uncover how their books reflect the realities of our lives and society today. Find out what drives India's finest authors: from personal experiences to jugaad research methods, insecurities to publishing journeys. Created by Bound, a storytelling company that helps you grow through stories. Follow us @boundindia on all social media platforms.
How can you not love real estate when you're surrounded by the beauty of Italy and Mexico? But leading and building a successful real estate career in another country is not always as easy or glamorous as it might look. That is exactly why I invited three incredible women to join me in this episode. They open up about the realities of working abroad, the challenges they've overcome, and the lessons they've learned along the way. Meet the Leaders Dr. Marina Rizzotto Yakovleva: Founder and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Palazzo Estate in Italy Email: marina.rizzotto@bhhspalazzoestate.com Michelle Wilhelm: Owner and COO of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Baja Real Estate in Mexico Email: michelle@bhhsbaja.com Carmen Chong: CEO of the Global Real Estate Alliance at AREAA Global Email: carmen@cclegacyfn.com Personal Journeys Into Real Estate (00:02:25 to 00:11:13) Dr. Yakovleva talks about falling in love with Italian culture and architecture and how that passion helped her build a luxury brand in Italy. Michelle shares how she moved from Canada to Baja, Mexico, started a brokerage after COVID, and made transparency the heart of her business. Carmen tells her powerful story of resilience, leaving Nicaragua, adapting to a new life, and eventually stepping into her role as the leader of AREAA Global. Navigating Cross-Border Leadership (00:20:36 to 00:24:43) Michelle highlights the importance of thinking globally and staying aware of emerging trends. Dr. Marina talks about leading with curiosity, respect, and genuine relationship-building when working across different cultures. Courage, Pivots, and Professional Growth (00:25:35 to 00:37:38) Dr. Marina and Michelle share the challenges of moving to new countries and launching fresh ventures. Carmen opens up about stepping confidently into leadership, including her decision to establish AREAA Global as a separate business entity. Setbacks, Resilience, and Secrets to Success (00:40:00 to 00:54:27) The panel gets honest about the setbacks they faced along the way. They talk about how they pushed through difficult seasons and the habits that keep them grounded, like going for walks, enjoying simple coffee chats, counting their blessings, and staying close to family. Inspirational Thoughts (00:55:00 – 00:58:30) Dr. Marina Rizzotto Yakovleva Books/Podcasts: How I Built This by Guy Raz – Marina calls this "absolutely classic" with fascinating conversations featuring founders behind brands like Airbnb, Spanx, and Patagonia. Diary of a CEO – Another favorite podcast she enjoys listening to. Uplifting Message: To women who dream big but feel intimidated, Marina says: "Don't wait until you feel ready, just start. Don't be afraid to fail a little along your way because every mistake teaches you something new." Carmen Chong Uplifting Quote: "Pay it forward. There must be something you know that can help someone else. Be bigger than yourself and share what you've learned." Michelle Wilhelm Uplifting Quote: Michelle shares a fun and motivating reminder: "Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you." When you help another woman rise, we all shine. And that's how we make an impact. So, let's build each other up and shine brighter than the sun. For more great content from Teresa, connect with her on LinkedIn, join her Women Who Lead Series on Facebook, and subscribe to her YouTube channel. You can find more episodes of Women Who Lead on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and anywhere else podcasts can be found. This episode is brought to you in part by Venus et Fleur. Are you looking for a great way to show appreciation to family, friends, or even customers? Give them a floral arrangement they won't forget anytime soon. These beautiful arrangements make the perfect closing gift for any realtor to stay top of mind. Visit venusetfleur.com and use code "hsoa20" when ordering for 20% off.
In this episode, Dr. Ludy Green interviews the incredible Lauren C. Anderson. Lauren is a national and global security expert, with decades of experience in combating terrorism, confronting political violence, and securing international safety. As a former FBI Executive and the first US Mission Geneva-sponsored Executive at the Geneva Center for Security Policy, Lauren is truly a trailblazer for women pursuing a career in international security. In addition to her accomplished career, she also works to support women caught in conflict zones all across the world. Join us for this inspiring and engaging conversation!#Podcast #NCADV #NNEDV #SupportSurvivors #BelieveSurvivors #EndDomesticAbuse #violenceprevention #domesticabuseawareness #domesticabuse #womensupportingwomen #womenempowerment #womeninspiringwomen #empoweringwomen #WomenWhoLead #womeninleadership #womenleaders #changemakers #domesticabuse #globalwomen #WomensforumNY #iwfglobal #womensforumofny #internationalwomensforum #UN #unitednations #USCongress #statedepartment #GlobalSecurity #international
November 20, 2025 ~ Paul W Smith, Luanne Thomas Ewald and Ann Thomas Honor the 2025 Class of "Women Who Lead" live from Joe Muer Seafood. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
November 20, 2025 ~ Tiffany Ford, president and CEO of the University of Michigan Credit Union is recognized as one of 2025's Women Who Lead. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
#careerfreedom #buildyourdreams #quityourjob Watch Live Here: Click here Are you stuck in a job you hate but afraid to leave because of money? What if you could walk away—and actually thrive? In this inspiring episode, host Marcus Norman sits down with Miss Pav, a former corporate professional who left her $300k a year job and launched her own business without the usual financial chaos. She shares how mindset, planning, and smart action helped her create a life and career she actually loves—no rock bottom required. SUBSCRIBE to hear more inspiring stories like this! Whether you're dreaming of entrepreneurship or already running your own brand, this episode gives you a fresh perspective on business, money, and fulfillment—especially for women who want more without sacrificing stability. Marcus Norman is the host of Gentleman Style Podcast, where he interviews bold thinkers, entrepreneurs, and change-makers across finance, relationships, and lifestyle—empowering viewers with honest insights and actionable advice. Miss Pav is a dynamic entrepreneur who left the corporate grind to build a purpose-driven business—without hitting financial rock bottom. Her journey is proof that confidence, clarity, and courage can lead to success on your own terms. https://www.tiktok.com/@pavilla54
In this episode of Girls On Film, Anna Smith takes you out of the studio and straight to the sunny shores of Mallorca! Recorded live at the Evolution Mallorca International Film Festival, Anna hosts a Girls On Film panel on Women in Leadership, featuring a talented group of women shaping the industry with creativity and vision. Joining Anna on stage are filmmaker Alex Burunova, whose psychological drama SATISFACTION explores the delicate bond between composers Lola and Philip; BAFTA-nominated producer Sarah Brocklehurst, founder of Brock Media and known for THE OUTRUN; and Abi Harris, founder of Altitude Management, who helps artists take their creative projects to new heights. Anna also catches up with acclaimed actor Maria Dragus, known for THE WHITE RIBBON and MARY QUEEN OF SCOTS, who was in the audience at the Girls On Film panel. A huge thank you to Sandra, Maria, Vicka, and the wonderful team at Evolution Mallorca! We are already counting down to see what they have in store for next year. Do keep an eye out for dates. Learn more about Evolution Mallorca International Film Festival here: https://www.evolutionfilmfestival.com/ Sign up to the Girls On Film newsletter below: http://eepurl.com/iEKaM-/ Or email girlsonfilmsocial@gmail.com to be signed up. Become a patron of Girls On Film on Patreon here: www.patreon.com/girlsonfilmpodcast Follow us on socials: www.instagram.com/girlsonfilm_podcast/ www.facebook.com/girlsonfilmpodcast www.twitter.com/GirlsOnFilm_Pod www.twitter.com/annasmithjourno Watch Girls On Film on the BFI's YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLX…L89QKZsN5Tgr3vn7z Girls On Film is an HLA Agency production. Host: Anna Smith Executive Producer: Hedda Lornie Archbold Producer: Negin Nia Intern: Chloe Fonge Audio Editor: Benjamin Cook Principal Partners: Vanessa Smith and Peter Brewer © HLA Agency
Guest Bio: Renee Kylestewa Begay is from the Pueblo of Zuni in Southwest New Mexico. She is a mother to three daughters and married to high school sweetheart Donnie Begay. During her undergrad, she founded the Nations movement—a national ministry...Good morning. It's October 30th, 2025. Can you believe it? So I'm releasing these videos. Today's videos on resilience. Four distinct cultures coming at you. Jenny McGrath. Me, Danielle, my friend Renee Begay from New Mexico and Rebecca Wheeler, Walston. Tune in, listen to the distinctly different places we're coming from and how we're each thinking about resilience. And then find a way that that impacts you and your own community and you can create more resilience, more generosity, more connection to one another. It's what we need in this moment. Oh, and this is The Arise Podcast, and it's online. If you want to download, listen to it. There you can as well. Renee Begay (00:14):Okay, cool. Okay, so for those watching my introduction, I'll do it in my language. So my name is Renee Bega. I just spoke in my language, which is I'm from the Pueblo of Zuni tribe in Southwest New Mexico, and I shared the way that we relate to one another. So you share the clan system that you're from. So being a matrilineal society, we belong to our, there's lineage and then we are a child of our father's side of the family. And so I belong to the Sandhill Crane clan as my mom is my grandma. And then my daughters are Sandhill Crane, and then I'm a child of the Eagle Clan, which is my dad's side. So if I do introduce myself in Zuni and I say these clans, then people know, oh, okay, you're from this family, or I'm, or if I meet others that are probably Child of Crane, then I know that I have responsibility toward them. We figure out responsibility toward each other in the community and stuff, who's related to all those things. Yeah. And here in New Mexico, there are 19 Pueblo tribes, two to three Apache tribes, and then one Navajo nation tribe. So there's a large population of indigenous tribes here in New Mexico. So grateful and glad to be here.(02:22):Yeah. I guess I can answer your question about what comes to mind with just the word resilience, but even you saying a d Los Muertos, for me that was like, oh, that's self-determination, something that you practice to keep it going, to remember all those things. And then when you mentioned the family, Jenny, I was like, I think I did watch it and I looked on my phone to go look for it, and I was like, oh yeah, I remember watching that. I have a really short-term memory with books or things that I watch. I don't remember exactly details, but I know how I felt. And I know when I was watching that show, I was just like, whoa, this is crazy.(03:12):So yes, I remember watching that docuseries. And then I think Rebecca, when you're talking about, I was thinking through resilience feels like this vacillation between different levels, levels of the individual in relation to the community, how much do we participate in self discovery, self-determination, all those things, but then also connect it to community. How do we continue to do that as a community to stay resilient or keep practicing what we've been taught? But then also generationally too, I think that every generation has to figure out based on their experience in this modern world, what to do with the information and the knowledge that is given to us, and then how to kind of encourage the next generation too. So I was just thinking of all those scenes when I was listening to you guys.Rebecca (04:25):Yeah, when you said the generational thing that each generation has to decide what to do with the information given to them. This past weekend in the last week or so was that second New Kings march, and there's some conversation about the fact that it was overwhelmingly white and in my community that conversation has been, we weren't there. And what does that mean, right? Or the noticing that typically in this country when there are protests around human rights, typically there's a pretty solid black contingency that's part of that conversation. And so I just have been aware internally the conversation has been, we're not coming to this one. We're tired. And when I say I say black women specifically in some instances, the larger black community, we are tired.(05:28):We are tapping out after what happened in the last election. And I have a lot of ambivalence about that tapping out. I'm not sure how I feel about it, but it does make me think about what you said that in this moment my community is taking the information given to them and making a conscious choice to do something different than what we have done historically. So that's what I thought about when you were mentioning the generational sort of space that's there. What do we do with that and what does that mean about what we pass to the next generation?Danielle (06:09):Through this moment. So I think it's interesting to say, I think Rebecca said something about does your resilience, what does it feel grounded in or does it feel solid? I can't remember exactly how she put it. And yeah, she's frozen a bit on my screen, so I'll check in with her when she gets back. And I would say I felt like this week when I was thinking about my ancestors, I felt in having conversations in my family of origin around race and assimilation, just that there was this in-between generation. And I mean like you mentioned the voting, you saw it in our voting block, the Latino voting block pretty clearly represented.(07:09):There was this hard push for assimilation, really hard push and the in-between. And I feel like my generation is saying that didn't work. And so we know the stories of our ancestors, but how did we interpret those stories to mean many of us, I would say in our community to mean that we don't fight for justice? How did we reinterpret those stories to mean the best course was silence or forgetting why people migrated. The reason for migration was not because there was a hate for our land. That's very clear to me. The reason for migration was what we see now happening with Venezuela. It was ongoing oppression of our people through the, well, in my case, through the Mexican government and collaboration with the United States government that exacerbated poverty and hunger, which then led to migration. So do we forget that? It seems like we did. And in some, I wondered to myself, well, how did a guy like Cesar Chavez or I, how did they not forget that? How did they remember that? So I think resilience for me is thinking Los was like, who were my ancestors remembering why they moved and remembering what this moment is asking me to do. Is it asking me to move somewhere and maybe physically move or mentally move or I don't know what the movement means, but it's some kind of movement. So that's kind of what I thinkRenee (09:07):I'm seeing the importance of, even just in this conversation, kind of the idea of the trans narrative across all communities, the importance of storytelling amongst each other, sharing stories with each other of these things. Like even just hearing you Danielle of origins of reasons for migration or things like that, I'm sure very relatable. And we have migration stories too, even within indigenous on this continent and everything. So I think even just the importance of storytelling amongst each other to be able to remember together what these things are. I think even just when we had the opportunity to go to Montgomery and go to the Rosa Parks Museum, it, you hear the macro story of what happened, but when you actually walk through the museum and read every exhibition, every paragraph, you start learning the micro stuff of the story there. Maybe it wasn't everyone was a hundred percent, there was still this wrestling within the community of what to do, how to do it, trying to figure out the best way to do good amongst each other, to do right by each other and stuff like that. So I just think about the importance of that too. I think Danielle, when you mentioned resilience, a lot of times it doesn't feel good to practice resilience.(11:06):For me, there's a lot of confusion. What do I do? How do I do this? Well, a lot of consultation with my elders, and then every elder has a different, well, we did this, and then you go to the next elder, oh, well we did this. And so one of my friends said three people in the room and you get four ideas and all these things. So it's just like a lot of times it doesn't feel good, but then the practice of it, of just like, okay, how do we live in a good way with each other, with ourselves, with what faith you have, the spiritual beliefs that you hold all those, and with the land, all that stuff, it's just, yeah, it's difficult to practice resilience.Rebecca (12:03):I think that that's a good point. This idea, the reminder that it doesn't always feel good. When you said it, it's like, well, duh. But then you sit for a minute and you go like, holy crap, it doesn't feel good. And so that means I have to be mindful of the ways in which I want to step away from it, take a step back from it, and not actually enter that resilience. And it makes me think about, in order to kind of be resilient, there has to be this moment of lament or grief for the fact that something has happened, some type of wounding or injury or threat or danger that is forcing you to be resilient is requiring that of you. And that's a moment I always want to bypass. Who has time to, no, I don't have time to grieve. I got stuff I got to do, right?(13:06):I need to make it to the next moment. I need to finish my task. I need to keep it together. Whatever the things are. There are a thousand reasons for which I don't want to have that moment, even if I can't have it in the moment, but I need to circle back to it. Once the chaos sort of settles a little bit, it's very difficult to actually step into that space, at least for me personally, probably somewhat out of the cultural wider narratives that I inhabit. There's not a lot of invitation to grief element or if I'm very skilled at sidestepping that invitation. So for me, that's what comes to mind when I think about it doesn't feel good. And part of what doesn't feel good for me is that what there is to grieve, what there is to process there to lament. Who wants to do that?(14:10):I think I told you guys outside of the recording that my son had a very scary car incident this week, and several people have asked me in the last 48 hours, are you how? Somebody said to me, how is your mother heart? Nothing in me wants to answer that question. Not yesterday, not today. I'm almost to the point, the next person that asked me that, I might smack you because I don't have time to talk about that. Ask me about my kid. Then we maybe could ask me about myself and I would deflect to my kid really fast.Jenny (14:59):I'm thinking about, for me, resilience feels so connected to resistance. And as you were sharing stories of migration, I was thinking about my great great grandparents who migrated from Poland to the States. And a few years ago we went to Poland and did an ancestry trip and we went to a World War II museum. I really traced World War I through World War ii, but it really actually felt like a museum to resistance and seeing resistance in every tier of society from people who were Nazis soldiers smuggling out letters that were written in urine to people making papers for people to be able to get out.(16:05):And I found myself clinging to those stories right now as ice continues to disappear people every day and trying to stay situated in where and how can I resist and where and how can I trust that there are other people resisting even if I don't know how they are, and where can I lean into the relationships and the connections that are fostering collective resistance? And that's how I'm finding it as I am sitting with the reality of how similar what we are experiencing in the US is to early days of Nazi Germany and how can I learn from the resistance that has already taken place in former atrocities that are now being implemented by the country that I live in.Rebecca (17:41):That makes me think, Jenny of a couple of things. One, it's hard to breathe through this that we are perilously close to Nazi Germany. That feels like there's not a lot of vocabulary that I have for that. But it also makes me think of something that Renee said about going to the Rosa Parks Museum in Montgomery, and stepping really close to the details of that story, because I don't know if you remember this, Renee, but there's one exhibit that talks about this white law firm that was the money behind the Montgomery bus boycott and was the legal underpinning behind that. And I don't think I knew until I went to that museum and saw that it's like one picture on one poster in the middle of this big exhibit. And I don't think I knew that. I know a lot of things about Rosa Parks and the Montgomery Busboy.(18:53):I've taught them to my kids. We know about her and the bus and all of that, but the details and to know that there was this group of white people in 1950 something that stepped forward to be resistant in that moment. And it's like, gosh, I didn't know that. And it makes me, Jenny have the question, how many more times has that happened in history? And we don't actually have that information. And so the only larger narrative that I have access to is how white people were the oppressors and the aggressors in that. And that's true. I'm not trying to take anything away from that. But also there was this remnant of people who said, not me, not my house, not my family, not today, not tomorrow, not at any time in my lifetime. Am I going to be on the wrong side of history on this conversation? And I think that that's probably true in many places and spaces that we don't have access to the detail of the stories of resistance and alliance that is there across people groups, and we don't have that information.Jenny (20:21):It makes me think of something that's front of mind just because we were in Detroit last week as we talk about Rosa Parks, she lived the end of her days in Detroit in a home that the CEO of Little Caesar's spot for her,Wow. Where it's like one, it's tragic to me that such a heroine had had to need some financial assistance from some white CEO, and that was what that CEO decided to use his money towards is really beautiful for me. And you can go to her house in Detroit. It's just a house now. But it is, it's like how many of these stories we know that actually are probably for good reason if they're happening right now, because it's not always safe to resist. And we were just having breakfast with a friend today talking about, and or what a brilliant show it is and how resistance probably needs to be underground in a lot of ways in this current moment.Danielle (21:54):Do you know the animal for Los Martos, Renee? Maybe it, it's the Libre. It's the spirit animals from Mexican folklore, and they come out and they have to, traditionally they represent three of the four elements like air, water, earth, and fire. And so they put them on the altars and they're like spiritual protectors or whatever. And they highlighted during this time, and I don't know if any of y'all have seen some of the videos of, there's a couple videos where there's a couple of these more racist folks trying to chase after a person of color, and they just trip and they fall out their face on the pavement and talking with a couple of friends, some Mexican friends, they're like, oh, Libre has got that. They just bam flat, just the idea that the earth tripped them up or something. I love that. Something in the spirit wall brought them to their knees. So yesterday I took Luis is like, what are you doing? I made him go get me all this spray paint. And I put these wood panels together and partly we had at home and I was using his wood. He's like, don't paint all of it, but I was painting this panel of this que and I'm going to put it in downtown, and it's not something I'm doing and I'm thwarting the government. But it did feel resilient to paint it or to think about the spirit world tripping up these guys. It gave me some joyRebecca (23:42):But I actually think, and I've talked to you about this a little bit, Danielle, I think what I love about that is that there's something in the collective story of Mexican people that you can borrow from, that you can pull from to find this moment of resilience, of resistance, of joy, of relief release. And I think we need to do more of that. So often when we step into our collective narratives, it's at the pain points, it is at the wounding points. And I think that I love that there's something of something that you can borrow that is a moment of strength out of our collective narrative. I think that that's actually how you grow resilience. I think it is how you learn to recognize it is you borrow from this collective narrative, this moment of strength so that you can bring it with you in this moment. I think that that's who Rosa Parks has been in my community to me in my family, I think I've told you guys this before, but I have a daughter who's now in college, but when she was in elementary school, we had a whole thing for a semester with a bus driver that just had it out for black and brown kids on her bus route to the point that all the white kids in our little suburban neighborhood were like, what the heck is wrong with a bus driver coming after all the brown people?(25:13):And I remember actually borrowing from the story of Rosa Parks to say to my daughter, this is how we're going to handle this. What does it look like for you with dignity, but really firmly say, you cannot mistreat me. You will not mistreat me on this bus route. And so to me, the story, what you're telling Danielle, is that same sort of, let me borrow from this folklore, from this narrative, something to give to myself, to my family, to my people in this moment. I love that. I'm going to borrow it. I'm going to steal it. So send me a picture of the painting.Renee (26:03):Yeah. Have you guys talked about, I guess expressions or epigenetics, I guess with resilience with epigenetics, when we do experience hardship, there's a certain way of taking that hardship in and either it alters our expression or our reaction, our behavior and how we carry that through across generations. But I was thinking of that word even with Jenny when you were talking about resilience to you, you remember it maybe probably in your body as resistance because of your great grandparents. My question was, or even just with D Los MTOs, the spirits that help that are kind of like protectors, did you guys sense that as information first or did you feel it first kind like that there's this feeling inside, you can't really quite pinpoint it, but you feel it as a practice and then when you do get that information, you're like, ah, that's what it was. Or is it the other way? I need information first. And then you're like, okay, it confirms this. I dunno. I don't know if that's a clear question, but I was just kind of curious about that. Even with the Rosa Parks, this is how we're going to do it, this is how we remember it, that was successful in its ways. Yeah.Jenny (27:54):I think for me personally, the more stories I learn, the more of me makes sense. And the same great grandparents were farmers and from where they lived to the port sold vegetables along the way to pay for their travels. And then when they got to the port, sold their wagon to pay for their ship tickets and then just arrived in the states with practically nothing. And there's so much of a determined hope in that, that I have felt in myself that is willing to just go, I don't know where this is going to lead to, but I'm going to do it. And then when I hear these stories, I'm like, oh yeah, and it's cool to be with my husband as I'm hearing these family stories, and he'll just look at me like, oh, that sounds familiar.Danielle (29:07):I think there's a lot of humor in our family's resistance that I've discovered. So it's not surprising. I felt giddy watching the videos, not just because I enjoyed seeing them fall, but it did feel like the earth was just catching their foot. When I used to run in basketball in college, sometimes people would say, oh, I tripped on the lines. The lines of the basketball court grabbed them and just fell down. And I think for a moment, I don't know, in my faith, like God or the earth has its own way of saying, I'm not today. I've had enough today and you need to stop. And so that's one way. I don't know. I feel it in my body first. Yeah. What about you? Okay.Renee (30:00):Yeah, humor, definitely A lot of one elder that I knew just with crack jokes all the time, but had the most painful story, I think, of boarding school and stuff. And then we had the younger generation kind of just ask him questions, but one of the questions for him to him was, you joke a lot, how did you become so funny? And then he was just like, well, I got to do this, or else I'll like, I'll cry. So there's just the tragic behind it. But then also, yeah, humor really does carry us. I was thinking about that one guy that was heckling the lady that was saying free Palestine, and then he tripped. He tripped backwards. And you're like, oh.(31:00):So just those, I think those captures of those mini stories that we're watching, you're like, okay, that's pretty funny. But I think for us in not speaking for all indigenous, but even just within my community, there's a lot of humor for just answering to some of the things that are just too, it's out of our realm to even just, it's so unbelievable. We don't even know what to do with this pain, but we can find the humor in it and laugh about the absurdity of what's happening and And I think even just our cultural practices, a lot of times my husband Donnie and I talk about just living. I don't necessarily like to say that I live in two worlds. I am part of both. I am. We are very present in both of just this westernized society perspective, but we do see stark differences when we're within our indigenous perspective, our worldview, all those things that it's just very like, whoa, this is really different.(32:27):There's such a huge contrast. We don't know if it's a tangent line that never crosses, but then there are moments where when communities cross that there is this possibility that there's an understanding amongst each other and stuff. But I think even just with our cultural practice, the timeline of things that are happening in current news, it's so crazy. But then you look to, if you turn your head and you look toward the indigenous communities, they're fully into their cultural practices right now, like harvest dances and ceremonies and all those things. And it's just kind of like, okay, that's got grounding us right now. We're continuing on as it feels like the side is burning. So it's just this huge contrast that we're constantly trying to hold together, living in the modern world and in our cultural traditions, we're constantly looking at both and we're like, okay, how do we live and integrate the two?(33:41):But I think even just those cultural practices, seeing my girls dance, seeing them wear their traditional clothing, seeing them learning their language, that just my heart swells, gives me hope that we're continuing on even when it feels like things are falling and coming apart and all those things. But yeah, real quick story. Last week we had our school feast day. So the kids get to kind of showcase their culture, they wear their traditional clothes, and kids are from all different tribes, so everybody dresses differently. We had a family that was dancing their Aztec dances and Pueblo tribes in their Pueblo regalia, Navajo students wearing their Navajo traditional clothes and all those things. So all these different tribes, everyone's showcasing, not just showcasing, but presenting their cultural things that they've been learning. And at the very end, my daughter, her moccasin fell off and we were like, oh, no, what's happening? But thankfully it was the end of the day. So we were like, okay. So I took apart her leggings and then took off her moccasin and stuff. Then so we started walking back to the car, and then my other daughter, her moccasin leggings were unwrapping.(35:17):We were laughing, just walking all the way because everyone, their leggings were coming apart too as they were walking to their car. And everyone's just laughing all like, okay, it's the end of the day. It's okay. We're falling apart here, but it's all right. But it was just good to kind of have that day to just be reminded of who we are, that we remain, we're still here, we're still thriving, and all those things.Rebecca (35:56):Yeah, I think the epigenetics question is interesting for the story arc that belongs to black American people because of the severing of those bloodlines in the transatlantic slave trade. And you may have gotten on the ship as different tribes and different peoples, and by the time you arrive on US soil, what was many has merged into one in response to the trauma that is the trans glamorous slave trade. So that question always throws me for a loop a little bit, because I never really know where to go with the epigenetics piece. And it also makes me understand how it is that Rosa Parks is not my ancestor, at least not that I know of. And yet she is my ancestor because the way that I've been taught out of my Black American experience to understand ancestry is if you look like me in any way, shape or form, if there's any thread, if there is a drop of African blood in, you count as an ancestor.(37:13):And that means I get permission to borrow from Rosa Parks. She was in my bloodline, and I teach that to my kids. She's an elder that you need to respect that. You need to learn all of those things. And so I don't usually think about it until I'm around another culture that doesn't feel permission to do that. And then I want to go, how do you not catch that? This, in my mind, it all collapses. And so I want to say to you, Renee, okay, every native person, but when I hear you talk, it is very clear that for you ancestry means that tracing through the clans and the lines that you can identify from your mother and your father. So again, not just naming and noticing the distinction and the differences about how we even understand the word ancestor from whatever our story arcs are, to listen to Jenny talk about, okay, great grandfather, and to know that you can only go so far in black life before you hit a white slave owner and you lose any connection to bloodline. In terms of the records, I have a friend who describes it as I look into my lineage, black, black, white, nothing. And the owner and the listing there is under his property, not his bloodline. So just noticing and naming the expansiveness that needs to be there, at least for me to enter my ancestry.Rebecca (38:56):Yeah, that's a good, so the question would be how do generations confront disruption in their lineage? How do you confront disruption? And what do you work with when there is that disruption? And how does, even with Rosa Parks, any drop of African-American blood, that's my auntie, that's my uncle. How do I adopt the knowledge and the practices and traditions that have kept us going? Whereas being here where there's very distinct tribes that are very different from one another, there's a way in which we know how to relate through our lineage. But then also across pan-Indian that there's this very familiar practice of respect of one another's traditions, knowing where those boundaries are, even though I am Zuni and if I do visit another tribe, there's a way that I know how to conduct myself and respect so that I'm honoring them and not trying to center myself because it's not the time. So just the appropriateness of relationships and stuff like that. So yeah, that's pretty cool conversation.Danielle (40:40):It was talking from a fisherman from Puerto Vallarta who'd lived there his whole life, and he was talking, he was like, wink, wink. People are moving here and they're taking all the fish. And we were like, wait, is it Americans? Is it Canadians? He is like, well, and it was people from other states in Mexico that were kind of forced migration within Mexico that had moved to the coast. And he's like, they're forgetting when we go out and fish, we don't take the little fish. We put 'em back and we have to put 'em back because if we don't put 'em back, then we won't have fish next year. And he actually told us that he had had conversations. This is how close the world seems with people up in Washington state about how tribal members in Washington state on the coast had restored coastline and fish populations. And I thought, that is so cool. And so his whole thing was, we got to take care of our environment. I'm not radical. He kept telling us, I'm not radical in Spanish. I want my kid to be able to fish. We have so much demand for tourism that I'm worried we're going to run out, so we have to make this. How do we make it sustainable? I don't know. It just came to mind as how stories intersect and how people see the value of the land and how we are much more connected, like you said, Renee, because of even the times we can connect with people across thousands of miles,(42:25):It was really beautiful to hear him talk about how much he loved these little fish. He's like, they're little and they squirm around and you're not supposed to eat. He is like, they need to go back. They need to have their life, and when it's ready, then we'll eat them. And he said that in Spanish, it sounded different, but sounded way better. Yeah. Yeah. In Spanish, it was like emotional. It was connected. The words were like, there's a word in Spanish in Gancho is like a hook, but it also can mean you're deceived. And he is like, we can't deceive ourselves. He used that word. We can't deceive ourselves that the fish will be here next year. We can't hook. And with the play on words, because you use hook to catch fish, right?That's like a play on words to think about how do we preserve for the next generation? And it felt really hopeful to hear his story because we're living in an environment in our government that's high consumer oriented, no matter who's in charge. And his slowing down and thinking about the baby fish, just like you said, Renee is still dancing. We're still fishing, felt good.Renee (43:59):I remember just even going to Juno, Alaska for celebration when all the Alaskan tribes make that journey by canoe to Juneau. And even that, I was just so amazed that all the elders were on the side on the shore, and the people in the canoe did this whole ceremony of asking for permission to come on the land. And I was like, dang, even within, they're on their own land. They can do what they want, but yet they honor and respect the land and the elders to ask for permission first to get out, to step out. So it's just like, man, there's this really cool practice of reciprocity even that I am learning. I was taught that day. I was like, man, that's pretty cool. Where are those places that will help me be a good human being in practicing reciprocity, in relationship with others and with the land? Where do I do that? And of course, I remember those things like, okay, you don't take more than you need. You always are mindful of others. That's kind of the teachings that come from my tribe, constantly being mindful of others, mindful of what you're saying, mindful of the way you treat others, all those things against. So yeah. So I think even just this conversation crossing stories and everything, it's generative. It reminds us of all these ways that we are practicing resilience.(45:38):I was going to tell you, Danielle, about humor in resilience, maybe a little humble bragging, but Randy Woodley and Edith were here last week, and Donnie and I got to hang out with them. And I was telling them about this Facebook group called, it's like a Pueblo Southwest group. And people started noticing that there were these really intimate questions being asked on the page. And then people started realizing that it's ai, it's like a AI generated questions. So with Facebook, it's kind of maybe automatically implemented into, it was already implemented into these groups. And so this ai, it's called, I forget the name, but it will ask really sensitive questions like cultural questions. And people started, why are you asking this question? They thought it was the administrator, but then people were like, oh, they caught on like, oh, this is ai. And then people who kind of knew four steps ahead, what was happening, they were like, don't answer the questions. Some people started answering earnestly these really culturally sensitive questions, but people were like, no, don't answer the questions. Because they're mining for information. They're mining for knowledge from our ways. Don't give it to them.(47:30):So now every time this AI robot or whatever asks a question that's very sensitive, they just answer the craziest. That's a good one of them was one of 'em was like, what did you learn during a ceremonial dance? And no one would ask that question to each other. You don't ask that question. So people were like, oh, every time I hear any man of mine, a country song, they just throw out the crazies. And I'm sitting there laughing, just reading. I'm like, good. Oh man, this is us. Have you ever had that feeling of like, this is us. Yes, we caught on. We know what you're doing. This is so good. And then just thinking of all these answers that are being generated and what AI will spit out based off of these answers. And so I was telling Randy about this, and he just like, well, this is just what used to happen when settlers used to first come and interact with indigenous people. Or even the ethnographers would come and mind for information, and they gather all this knowledge from indigenous communities. And then these communities started catching on and would just give them these wild answers. And then these ethnographers would gather up this information and then take it to the school, and the teachers would teach this information. So maybe that's why the school system has some crazy out there information about indigenous peoples. But that's probably part of what's happened here. But I just thought that was so funny. I was like, oh, I love us.Rebecca (49:19):Yeah, that's going to show up in some fourth graders history report or social studies report something about, right. And I can't wait to see that. Yeah, that's a good idea. So good. That feels like resistance and resilience, Renee.Renee (49:40):Yeah. Yeah. Humorous resistance. It just, yeah. So one of the questions is, have you ever harvested traditional pueblo crops?(49:52):And then some puts, my plastic plants have lasted generations with traditional care.So unserious just very, yeah, it's just so funny. So anytime I want to laugh, I go to, oh, what did this ai, what's this AI question for today? Yeah. People have the funniest, funniest answers. It givesYeah, yeah. Jenny's comment about it kind of has to go underground. Yeah. What's underneath the surface?Danielle (50:36):I have to pause this, but I'd love to have you back. Rebecca knows I'm invited every week. May invited. I have a client coming. But it is been a joy. Well, first I guess I would have to believe that there was or is an actual political dialogue taking place that I could potentially be a part of. And honestly, I'm not sure that I believe that.
From flavor to rhythm to history, the impact of Hispanics on our world is unforgettable. This month, I'm thrilled to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with four incredible women in the real estate industry. They share powerful stories of breaking barriers, building community, and redefining what leadership looks like. Meet The Leaders · Maggie Matthews is a celebrated broker, mentor, keynote speaker, and best-selling author with over 24 years of real estate experience. She is the driving force behind the Latinas in Real Estate book series, now three volumes strong, amplifying the voices of Latina professionals across the industry. · Jackie Castanera serves as the Assistant Sales Manager at Berkshire Hathaway Home Services, overseeing Chicago's West region in Oak Park. Committed to helping agents and clients thrive, Jackie is not only an accomplished real estate leader but also a passionate community advocate who draws from her rich family legacy of business leadership. · Ileana Rojas Saldana is the co-founder and president of United Latinas, a respected leadership coach, and a DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging) trailblazer. Through United Latinas, she strives to empower Latinas by elevating their leadership, visibility, and voice, offering resources such as book series (Extraordinary Latinas), public speaking programs, and community chapters nationwide. · Ellie Sance is an attorney and the founder of ES Law, where she serves as a trusted bilingual advocate for her clients throughout real estate transactions. As a Latina in the male-dominated field of law, she cites the importance of being comfortable with discomfort, communicating with confidence, and standing her ground while also remaining open and respectful. Overcoming Barriers and Shaping Legacies · Each guest delves into the challenges faced as Latinas in often male-dominated and unwelcoming environments. · They share strategies for overcoming self-doubt, combating stereotypes, and reclaiming their voices. · The power of mentors, community, and staying prepared emerges as recurring themes, with each guest highlighting key individuals who fueled their confidence and ambition. Defining Leadership and Legacy · For Maggie, leadership is about being the mentor she never had. As the daughter of immigrant parents and the oldest of four, she often had to figure things out on her own. Her proudest moments come not only from personal recognition, but also from helping countless women find their confidence and achieve their goals. · Jackie views leadership as embodying preparation, confidence, and authenticity. She has learned that respect is earned through consistency and readiness. For her, legacy is about perseverance—proving doubters wrong, uplifting her daughters with her story, and continuing the entrepreneurial spirit passed down from her family. · Ellie defines leadership as having the courage to take risks, speak up, and claim space even in male-dominated industries. Her legacy is rooted in the decision to leave big law, establish her own firm, and build a career on her own terms. She believes in leading by example, showing that success comes from self-trust, resilience, and turning discomfort into growth. · For Ileana, leadership means reclaiming the voice she once lost in the corporate world and helping other women do the same. She believes legacy is not just about rising individually but about bringing others along—creating communities where Latinas can be seen, heard, and supported. Favorite Books, Podcasts, and Quotes · Ellie Sance: o Mantra/Quote: Trust yourself, speak up, and take up space. As she put it, “If you're wrong, the worst that happens is you learn something and you do it gracefully and you own it. And if you're right, then you lead.” · Jackie Castanera: o Mantra/Advice: Take risks, and don't be afraid to step forward even when uncertain. She emphasized the importance of being passionate, giving back to your community, and finding that intersection between your work and your passions. · Ileana Rojas Saldana: o Mantra/Quote: “Believe in the power of your voice.” She's built her life and coaching around this idea, focusing on helping women own and elevate their voices and presence. · Maggie Matthews: o Book: She recommends Mel Robbins' book, “The Let Them Theory,” saying it's incredibly helpful for mindset and personal development. She also mentioned Mel Robbins' other books, “The Five Second Rule” and “The High Five Theory,” as impactful. o Podcast: She highlighted Mel Robbins' podcast as the number one podcast right now and highly recommended it. o Quote/Mantra: Maggie reflected on the idea that “our lives are our chapters, and we are the authors of our best-selling books, and everybody's story is very, very important.” When you help another woman rise, we all shine. And that's how we make an impact. So, let's build each other up and shine brighter than the sun. For more great content from Teresa, connect with her on LinkedIn, join her Women Who Lead Series on Facebook, and subscribe to her YouTube channel. You can find more episodes of Women Who Lead on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and anywhere else podcasts can be found. This episode is brought to you in part by Venus et Fleur. Are you looking for a great way to show appreciation to family, friends, or even customers? Give them a floral arrangement they won't forget anytime soon. These beautiful arrangements make the perfect closing gift for any realtor to stay top of mind. Visit venusetfleur.com and use code “hsoa20” when ordering for 20% off.
Today we have a very special crossover episode with journalist and host/producer of The Con: Katilyn's Baby, Sarah Treleaven. Sarah and Andrea recount how they met many years ago and the similarities in their work with Munchausen and Munchausen adjacent stories. Sarah reveals a personal story about how she got into this line of work. Kaitlyn's Baby, is about a woman that had been serially fabricating pregnancies, contacting doulas, and once they had agreed to help, taking them through a series of escalating crises. Andrea and Sarah dive into the depth of emotional betrayal experienced by the victims in this case and the thrill of deception experienced by these perpetrators. Sarah talks about the lack of framework in the criminal justice system for someone who has not been physically harmed or cheated out of their money or property, as well as the complicated questions that arise for her as she investigates these cases. *** Listen to The Con: Kaitlyn's Baby: https://podcasts.apple.com/at/podcast/the-con-kaitlyns-baby/id1663956121 Order Andrea's book The Mother Next Door: Medicine, Deception, and Munchausen by Proxy. Click here to view our sponsors. Remember that using our codes helps advertisers know you're listening and helps us keep making the show! Subscribe on YouTube where we have full episodes and lots of bonus content. Follow Andrea on Instagram: @andreadunlop Buy Andrea's books here. For more information and resources on Munchausen by Proxy, please visit MunchausenSupport.com The American Professional Society on the Abuse of Children's MBP Practice Guidelines can be downloaded here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
There's something powerful about a woman who's been shot—and chooses to keep her heart light.On this episode of Groove with Portia, I sit down with Janine Powell Reid, a survivor, leader, and founder of Jones House of Refuge. Janine opens up about surviving a traumatic shooting that changed her life forever, her long road to recovery, and what it meant to fight for her independence again. But her story doesn't stop there.She shares how she moved through failed marriages, stigma around mental health, and the deep need to rediscover herself. Through her faith and a commitment to personal growth, Janine transformed her pain into purpose—creating a transitional home that helps single mothers rebuild their lives.We explore what healing looks like when no one is watching, how community support becomes a lifeline, and why financial literacy and entrepreneurship matter deeply to her mission. Janine also shares her plans to expand Jones House of Refuge to support more families and children with long-term resources.This episode is for anyone who needs a reminder that their story is still unfolding. Janine's strength is a testament that your past doesn't define your future—and every scar holds a lesson that can be passed on.Connect with Janine: https://www.joanshousedc.com/
Real estate agents are often the face of the industry, but they wouldn't get far without the brilliant minds working behind the scenes. These are the leaders who keep the entire operation running smoothly with their exceptional administrative and operational skills. Today, I'm joined by three incredible women who have mastered this crucial space: Sherrie Porter, Melissa Ryan, and Stephanie Wolf. They'll share their insights and expertise on what it takes to lead in the real estate industry, from the front office to the back end. Grab your cafecito and join us as we explore how a blend of operational excellence and strategic vision creates a foundation for success. Meet The Leaders Sherrie Porter, Chief Operating Officer, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices EWM Realty, sherrie@ewm.com. Melissa Ryan, Chief Administrative Officer and General Counsel of Long & Foster Real Estate, MelissaRyan@hsoa.homeservices.com. Stephanie Wolf, General Manager, Pickford Escrow, swolf@pickfordescrow.com. Breaking the Mold: Three Different Journeys into Real Estate Sherry shares her 38-year journey from an entry-level role to COO, highlighting the relationship-driven nature of real estate and her experience in both residential and operational leadership. Melissa discusses her transition from real estate law to a multifaceted executive role, overseeing property management, legal, and operational functions for thousands of agents. Stephanie recounts her unique entry into escrow, emphasizing California's apprenticeship model and her path from entry-level to managing multiple branches. Defining Leadership Styles Each of the ladies describes their views on a people-centered approach: Stephanie focuses on pragmatism, advocacy, and making sure “people matter.” Sherry emphasizes servant leadership, strategic thinking, and leading by example. Melissa prioritizes a “people first” mindset, ensuring culture and operational efficiency go hand in hand. Building a Culture of Belonging and Support Melissa emphasizes the powerful impact of putting people where their passions and strengths align. Her strategy is less about implementing a single system and more about intentionally understanding what excites each team member. Stephanie underscores the importance of teamwork and an inclusive, collaborative culture across her organization. She credits much of their success to intentionally breaking down silos between departments and operational “core services” (such as escrow and sales). Sherry Porter focuses on maximizing each person's unique strengths and maintaining a mindset of continuous growth and adaptability. She uses insights from books like Marcus Buckingham's Now, Discover Your Strengths to intentionally place people in positions where they naturally excel. Supporting & Elevating Women Stephanie shares how in Southern California, that 87% of escrow branch leaders are women. Her company actively promotes and uplifts women as they grow in their careers by offering training classes, advisory committees, and brainstorming sessions.There's a culture of supporting women at all career stages, so they have opportunities to participate, learn, and advance. Sherry is intentional about seeking out and building a bench of future leaders, especially as her organization experiences changes among top leadership. She empowers women by challenging them, giving them opportunities, and offering her support—focusing on questions that get to the heart of what might help women move forward or get “unstuck.” Melissa believes women in leadership must take responsibility for building a bench of future women leaders. She directly supports women in her organization—though not through a formal mentorship program, she actively identifies talent and provides growth and learning opportunities so women can step into bigger roles. Recommended Resources & Inspiration Stephanie mentioned her admiration for Simon Sinek, quoting, "We have the luxury of looking after ourselves, but we have the honor of looking after each other," which reflects her value of team and collective success. She also follows Mel Robbins for motivation and recommended Mary Claire Haver, a Texas-based doctor who leads a revolution for women navigating perimenopause and menopause. Melissa highlighted the book "Mindset: The New Psychology of Success," emphasizing the importance of having a growth mindset, especially in times of industry change. Sherry Porter recommended the book "Now, Discover Your Strengths" by Marcus Buckingham. She also talked about "The Power of Moments" by Chip and Dan Heath. When you help another woman rise, we all shine. And that's how we make an impact. So, let's build each other up and shine brighter than the sun. For more great content from Teresa, connect with her on LinkedIn, join her Women Who Lead Series on Facebook, and subscribe to her YouTube channel. You can find more episodes of Women Who Lead on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and anywhere else podcasts can be found. This episode is brought to you in part by Venus et Fleur. Are you looking for a great way to show appreciation to family, friends, or even customers? Give them a floral arrangement they won't forget anytime soon. These beautiful arrangements make the perfect closing gift for any realtor to stay top of mind. Visit venusetfleur.com and use code “hsoa20” when ordering for 20% off.
You've heard the advice: “Just go live. Just hit record. Just do it messy.” But if you're an accomplished woman who's spent years building a reputation for excellence, that advice probably makes your skin crawl...and rightfully so.In this episode, I'm calling out the online culture that glorifies “messy” as the only path to authenticity. Spoiler alert: it's not. You don't need to lower your standards —> you need a strategy that matches them.In this episode, I cover:Why “messy” content advice often backfires for accomplished womenThe real reason you're avoiding the camera (hint: it's not laziness or fear)The difference between being real and being recklessHow to show up with polish and presence without waiting for perfectWhat to focus on instead if you want to look confident, camera-ready, and in controlIf you've been putting off visibility because you refuse to look unprepared or unprofessional, this one's for you.Grab the Confident and Camera-Ready FREE GUIDE here:https://christinebraneli.kit.com/guideI love hearing from you! Send me a msg here.Support the show
With thousands of submissions to be a part of the NAHREP's Top list, only 250 can make it. I'm proud to say that I have three lovely estrellas who made this list: Iris Lobo, Sandra Juliano, and Jennifer Price, who are chatting with me in this episode. Grab your cafecitos and join us in this conversation to hear their stories of resilience, reinvention, and purpose-driven leadership in real estate to empower you to shine in your own lane. Meet the Leaders Iris Lobo, REALTOR® and Team Leader, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Ambassador Real Estate, iris.lobo@bhhsamb.com. Sandra Juliano – REALTOR®, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices New England Properties, SandraJuliano@bhhsne.com. Jennifer Price – REALTOR®, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices EWM Realty, in Florida, jennifer@jenniferpricegroup.com. Estrellas' Backgrounds & Markets Each of my guests discussed what made them choose real estate as their profession. Sandra started within the New York City market through a mix of professional and personal transitions. The median home price in her market is around $1.2 million. Sandra's clientele often includes professionals with connections to NYC and corporations in the area. Iris Lobo leads the Spanish-speaking team in Omaha, Nebraska, and also serves the Council Bluffs, Iowa, area. She and her team focus on empowering Latino families, with typical home values ranging from $250,000 to $350,000. Jennifer Price serves Miami and South Florida, specializing in multicultural and multilingual clients. Fluent in Spanish and Portuguese, she particularly serves the Brazilian and South American communities. Achievements & Honors Each estrella reflects on the immense honor and significance of being named among NAHREP's Top 250 Latino real estate agents. The accolade is highly competitive and acknowledges excellence and impact in service to the community. They also explore how their heritage and upbringing have shaped their drive and ambitions, ultimately leading them to where they are today. Bold Moves & Defining Moments After losing her corporate job, Jennifer chose not to succumb to fear and decided to reinvent herself. She trusted her instincts and pursued what truly made her happy. She believed in herself, didn't let fear get in the way, and attributes her success to that defining moment of self-belief and action. Sandra's difficult moment came when she was at a local park and someone assumed that she was her son's nanny due to her looks and told her something unsettling. Rather than letting this discourage her, Sandra used it as fuel to prove them wrong and succeed in real estate. That experience solidified her determination and drive. Early in Iris's career, she felt unsupported even by those closest to her. This made her doubt her potential for success. However, real, meaningful connections with clients and discovering her true passion for helping others through homeownership helped her push past the urge to quit. Adapting to Industry Change With the rise of AI technology, each of my guests shares how they're adapting to its use in real estate. Jennifer shares how she utilizes ChatGPT as a powerful ally and emphasizes the importance of authenticity on social media. Sandra discusses how she understands that it's best for her to turn her social media channels over to a trusted specialist. Doing so allows her to extend her reach in more meaningful ways and make her brand more connected to the community. Iris mentions feeding her values and information into AI tools to make sure her content maintains her authentic voice. For her team, tech solutions are customized to match their unique blend of faith, culture, and strategy. Podcasts, Life Lessons, & Quotes Jennifer: Shared Maya Angelou's wisdom, “People will never forget how you made them feel,” emphasizing the lasting value of showing care and positivity. Iris: Quoted Luke 1:37, “Faith doesn't make things easy; it makes them possible,” highlighting the sustaining power of faith in hard times. Sandra: Recommended the podcast “You're Dead To Me,” for its engaging, comedic takes on history—especially stories of women's strength and resilience. When you help another woman rise, we all shine. And that's how we make an impact. So, let's build each other up and shine brighter than the sun. For more great content from Teresa, connect with her on LinkedIn, join her Women Who Lead Series on Facebook, and subscribe to her YouTube channel. You can find more episodes of Women Who Lead on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and anywhere else podcasts can be found. This episode is brought to you in part by Venus et Fleur. Are you looking for a great way to show appreciation to family, friends, or even customers? Give them a floral arrangement they won't forget anytime soon. These beautiful arrangements make the perfect closing gift for any realtor to stay top of mind. Visit venusetfleur.com and use code “hsoa20” when ordering for 20% off.
In this deeply personal and inspiring episode, we welcome Liza Graves, founder of StyleBlueprint and a beloved leader in the lifestyle space, for a rich conversation about how travel has quietly and powerfully shaped her life. From the traditions she's built with family, to the friendships that have deepened over shared adventures, and even the very fabric of her professional journey, travel has been a guiding force for Liza both outwardly and inwardly.A true storyteller at heart and a curious soul by nature, Liza has built a career around connection, beauty, and discovery. Her passion for travel isn't about collecting stamps in a passport but rather about the people you meet, the moments that stay with you, and the perspective you carry home. Whether she's wandering the streets of a new city or finding wonder in the familiar rhythms of her own backyard, Liza shows us how curiosity, gratitude, and intention can turn every journey, whether near or far, into something transformative.This episode is more than a conversation. Think of it as an invitation to reflect on how we move through the world, and how travel, when approached with heart, can create a life filled with purpose, connection, and joy.A must listen! Only on Speaking of Travel.Thanks for listening to Speaking of Travel! Visit speakingoftravel.net for travel tips, travel stories, and ways you can become a more savvy traveler.
In this episode of Mad Rush, Trisha welcomes Janet Ward, founder of QUADS Designs – QUADSis® Footwear, a trailblazing brand on a mission to help women and girls step forward with confidence—literally and figuratively. With sizes 5–11 (including half sizes) and designs as functional as they are fashionable, Janet is solving a problem that most brands overlook. Janet opens up about the spark that led her to create footwear with intention, style, and solutions for real women on the go. She discusses the challenges of disrupting the footwear industry, the importance of inclusive sizing, and what it means to build a brand rooted in empowerment and innovation. Whether you're a shoe lover or a founder in the making, this conversation will inspire you to take the next bold step in your journey. What You'll Hear in This Episode: Why Janet designed QUADSis® for “girls in women's sizes” How she combined style, comfort, and purpose in one brand Her entrepreneurial path—from idea to innovative execution The vision behind helping women walk into their power Learn More & Shop QUADSis®:
Women Who Lead 048: Betsy Cameron, Jeana Sander, Talia Tiffany | Bold Catalysts Welcome back to this monthly series of Women Who Lead. In this episode, I'm sitting down with three lovely ladies in the real estate industry: Betsy Cameron, President of Ebby Holiday Companies; Gina Sander, Vice President and Regional Manager at Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties; and Tallie Tiffany, Director of Legal Operations at HomeServices of America. We dive into the importance of legacy, bold decision-making, and the mindset shifts required to lead effectively during transformative times. Meet the Leaders Betsy Cameron, President, Ebby Halliday Companies, betsycameron@ebby.com Jeana Sander, Vice President & Vice President & Regional Manager, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices California Properties, JeanaSander@bhhscal.com Talia Tiffany, Director of Legal Operations, HomeServices of America, TaliaTiffany@homeservices.com Humble Beginnings in Real Estate Betsy Cameron: Raised in a real estate family, Betsy's journey led her from teaching special education to becoming an executive in the real estate industry. She credits her mother's influence, a foundation in service, and embracing both legacy and innovation as key leadership drivers. Gina Sander: Transitioning from commercial to residential real estate, Gina found a passion for guiding clients through major decisions. Her career saw acceleration through multiple leadership invites, leading to her overseeing 700 California agents with a focus on values, integrity, and authentic connection. Tallie Tiffany: With a strong background in law and real estate from a young age, Tallie blends legal expertise with practical business insights. She shares the importance of mentorship, sponsorship, and “lifting as you climb,” especially through peer collaboration. Navigating Courageous Decisions Each leader shares their moments that required boldness—whether it was Betsy making the leap after 16 years at another brokerage, Gina uprooting her life to take a career leap, or Tallie leaving a secure legal job for the uncertainties of a commission-based role. At the heart: integrity, compassion, and staying true to core values, even when change is uncomfortable. Building Legacy and Fostering Inclusion We delve into how these women honor the legacies of their predecessors while innovating for the future. All three emphasize creating space at the table for women, elevating colleagues, and developing skills through both mentorship and sponsorship. They also discuss the importance of inclusivity and support networks within and beyond their organizations. Real Estate and Tech: Meeting Today's Challenges Facing market challenges like affordability, inventory shortages, and shifting client expectations, the ladies highlight the critical role of education, data, and new technology tools, including AI and automated marketing solutions. They stress adaptability and continuous learning as essential leadership qualities. Favorite Quotes, Podcasts, and Books Tallie shares that her two favorite podcasts are "Women at Work" by Harvard Business Review and "Good Hang" by Amy Poehler. Betsy shares that she enjoys listening to Simon Sinek the most. Gina loved the book “The Four Agreements” by Don Miguel Ruiz and is subscribed to the Daily Stoic. She just recently finished reading “The Obstacle Is the Way” by Ryan Holiday. Also, her favorite quote is by Winston Churchill, “You will never reach your destination if you stop and throw stones at every dog that barks.” When you help another woman rise, we all shine. And that's how we make an impact. So, let's build each other up and shine brighter than the sun. For more great content from Teresa, connect with her on LinkedIn, join her Women Who Lead Series on Facebook, and subscribe to her YouTube channel. You can find more episodes of Women Who Lead on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and anywhere else podcasts can be found. This episode is brought to you in part by Venus et Fleur. Are you looking for a great way to show appreciation to family, friends, or even customers? Give them a floral arrangement they won't forget anytime soon. These beautiful arrangements make the perfect closing gift for any realtor to stay top of mind. Visit venusetfleur.com and use code “hsoa20” when ordering for 20% off.
Influencing up is a critical skill to moving up in our careers. We need to be intentional and strategic if we want to be more visible for a new role, promotion or to attract any new opportunity. These six tips will help you get there faster.Build credibility with consistent excellenceDeliver exceptional results consistently to establish yourself as reliable and valuable. When leaders trust your work quality and judgment, they're more likely to consider your ideas and recommendations. Recognize that you have specialized knowledge or frontline insights that leadership lacks. Share these perspectives confidently.Understand your leader's priorities and pressuresTake time to learn what matters most to decision-makers above you - their goals, challenges, and what they're evaluated on. Frame your proposals in terms of these priorities to show alignment with their objectives.Present solutions, not just problemsWhen raising issues, come prepared with thoughtful recommendations and implementation plans. Leaders appreciate team members who think proactively and take initiative rather than simply escalating issues.Communicate strategicallyFrame your ideas in terms of organizational goals and leadership priorities. Tailor your message to your audience's communication style. Some leaders prefer data-driven presentations while others respond to storytelling. Be concise, focus on impact, and anticipate potential questions or concerns.Build genuine relationships before you need themDevelop trust through reliability, thoughtful interactions, and demonstrating value in everyday work. Identify and nurture relationships with influential stakeholders who can champion your ideas. When multiple respected voices support your position, it creates momentum that's difficult for leaders to ignore. Connect with leaders on a personal level while maintaining professionalism. Demonstrate emotional intelligenceRead the organizational climate and timing carefully. Understand when to press forward with an idea and when to temporarily step back. Show empathy for the pressures leaders face while maintaining conviction in your valuable contributions.Some resources for you:Want to see how you score as a confident communicator? Take The Confidence Cocktail Assessment: https://karenlaos.com/confidence-cocktail-fb/Project more confidence and credibility with my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: https://karenlaos.lpages.co/words-to-avoid/My book “Trust Your Own Voice”: https://karenlaos.com/book/Episodes also available on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videosAbout me:Many years ago I found myself tongue-tied in a boardroom, my colleagues and executives staring at me. My stomach in my throat, I was unable to get the words out (in spite of being in a senior leadership role). Then, I heard my boss shut down the meeting. My heart sank. I was mortified. She pulled me aside and said, "You didn't trust your gut. You could've tabled the meeting like I did."Why didn't that option occur to me in the moment? Why did I feel like I needed permission?That was the day I set out to change. I began a journey of personal growth to discover the root of the problem. Once I did, I wanted every woman to experience that same freedom.I'm now on a mission to eradicate self-doubt in 10 million women in 10 years by giving them simple strategies to speak up and ask for what they want in the boardroom and beyond, resulting in more clients, job promotions, and negotiation wins.Companies like NASA, Netflix, Google, and Sephora have been propelled toward more effective communication skills through my signature framework, The Confidence Cocktail™.This is your invitation to step into your most confident self so you can catapult your career! Karen Laos, Communication Expert and Confidence Cultivator, leverages 25 years in the boardroom and speaking on the world's most coveted stages such as Google and NASA to transform missed opportunities into wins. She is fiercely committed to her mission of eradicating self-doubt in 10 million women by giving them practical strategies to ask for what they want in the boardroom and beyond. She guides corporations and individuals with her tested communication model to generate consistent results through her Powerful Presence Keynote: How to Be an Influential Communicator. Want to see how you score as a confident communicator? Take The Confidence Cocktail Assessment: https://karenlaos.com/confidence-cocktail-fb/ Get my free tips: 9 Words to Avoid & What to Say Instead: https://karenlaos.lpages.co/words-to-avoid/ Connect with me:Website: https://www.karenlaos.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karenlaosofficial Facebook: Ignite Your Confidence with Karen Laos: https://www.facebook.com/groups/karenlaosconsultingLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenlaos/Episodes also available on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEwQoTGdJX5eME0ccBKiKng/videosMy book “Trust Your Own Voice”: https://karenlaos.com/book/