Women in the Arena

Let's be friends! What would you trade for more time? After 25 years prosecuting high-profile cases in Minneapolis, Debbie Russell made a decision many dream of but few execute – walking away from her legal career at 55, trading a full pension for what she calls "full-time freedom." Her journey represents a profound lesson in the power of choice and the courage required to author your own next chapter. Since her twenties, Debbie had been planning this transition, understanding that her legal career would be just one segment of a multifaceted life. This wasn't about escaping a job she hated, but about honoring a promise she'd made to her younger self. The path wasn't without emotional hurdles. Debbie describes the strange experience of a virtual retirement party during the pandemic that felt like "attending her own wake." This speaks to the process of "unbecoming" that precedes becoming something new – shedding an identity cultivated over decades involves genuine grief, even when you're ready to move forward. Through writing her award-winning book "Crossing 51: Not Quite a Memoir," Debbie found purpose in connecting her midlife transformation with her grandfather's parallel journey at the same age. His story – becoming addicted to Demerol while working as a successful physician, then dying at just 59 – taught her that time is finite and not guaranteed. This realization infuses her current life with mindful appreciation for each day. Most remarkably, after moving to a 10-acre rural property, Debbie found herself feeling less lonely than ever before. Despite having fewer people physically around her, her relationships became intentional rather than circumstantial. Her story offers profound insights for anyone facing midlife transitions – whether through retirement, empty nesting, or simply questioning "what's next?" Visit https://debbie-russell.com to learn more about her journey and connect about her book. What chapter will you write next?

Let's be friends! What happens when the games we played as children shape our entire professional experience? In this eye-opening conversation with chemical engineer and author Wendy Cocke, we uncover how fundamental differences in how boys and girls organize play creates invisible barriers in the workplace that nobody talks about. Wendy shares her journey as a successful engineer and mother who was once told her career would stall if she pursued flexibility—a prediction she thoroughly disproved. Through her experiences leading global technical teams while raising her "Rolling Circus" (her loving term for her family), she's developed unique insights into why women often feel like outsiders in corporate structures. The most revealing moment comes when Wendy explains her "circle exercise"—a simple activity where people draw two circles representing work and life. The dramatic difference between how men and women typically approach this task illuminates why workplace miscommunications happen so frequently. Men generally draw separate circles, while women (especially mothers) draw work as existing within life—a fundamental difference in worldview that explains countless workplace tensions. We explore how boys naturally form hierarchies from childhood while girls create communal structures without winners and losers. When these different frameworks collide in corporate environments designed around hierarchical "ladders," women often feel they're playing a game where they don't fully understand the rules. This insight alone transformed my understanding of workplace dynamics. Wendy also challenges us to embrace risk-taking and creativity, sharing how her own unexpected career shift following a corporate layoff opened doors she never imagined. Her perspective on failure as merely a redirection rather than an endpoint offers a refreshing antidote to the fear that holds back so many high-achieving women. Whether you're navigating a male-dominated industry, seeking more flexibility in your career, or simply trying to understand why workplace dynamics sometimes feel so challenging, this conversation offers practical wisdom for defining success on your own terms. Try the circle exercise yourself—you might be surprised what it reveals about your approach to work and life.

Let's be friends! Lesley Jane Seymour's remarkable career spans leadership roles at major women's magazines like More, Marie Claire, and Redbook—but it's what she's doing now that might be her most impactful work yet. In this candid conversation, Lesley shares how she convinced Michelle Obama to make history as the first First Lady to guest edit an entire magazine, generating 8.5 billion media impressions worldwide. What drives a successful magazine editor to become an entrepreneur focused on women in midlife? Lesley explains her passion for helping women navigate what she calls "the FU 50s"—that liberating period when we finally stop seeking universal approval and embrace authentic self-expression. "I don't have time for that anymore," she explains. "Time is running out...you can't make people like you. And that is the biggest liberation of all." The employment landscape for women over 40 is challenging, with statistics showing flat employment numbers while men's opportunities continue to grow. Lesley founded Covey Club to address this gap, creating a supportive community where women can upskill, network, and reinvent themselves. She delivers hard truths about technology skills gaps that hold many midlife women back: "95% of issues have to do with not understanding technology." Yet she approaches these challenges with compassion, teaching in ways that respect how this demographic learns. Perhaps most surprising is Lesley's insight that reinvention often happens more successfully among strangers than with longtime friends. "Reinventing yourself with strangers is easier because you can show up day one as who you want to be," she explains. At Covey Club, women arrive without judgment or history, free to become whoever they choose next. Whether you're facing empty nest syndrome, career transitions, or simply seeking your next chapter, Lesley's wisdom offers both practical guidance and emotional reassurance. As she says, "Midlife is not for sissies...don't go it alone." Ready to discover what's possible in your next act? https://www.coveyclub.com/

Let's be friends! A profound loss can either break us or transform us. For Kerryn Vaughan, the death of her sister became the catalyst that changed everything. Kerryn's story begins with a self-described "rock and roll life" focused entirely on herself, until her sister's cancer diagnosis and subsequent death shattered her world. Standing on stage at a cancer fundraiser years later, Kerryn experienced a life-altering revelation: "I realized I had this incredible power within me to make a difference to other people's lives." This awakening launched her on a humanitarian path that continues to create ripples of change across continents. With refreshing candor and humor, Kerryn shares the remarkable journey that led her to write "Magnificent Kids," a book showcasing extraordinary children making global impact—like Daniel, who despite cerebral palsy travels through jungles to protect orangutans, and Jack, who at 15 developed an affordable test strip for pancreatic cancer. These stories inspired Kerryn to found One Planet Classrooms, initially conceived as a cultural exchange program that evolved into something far more profound. What began as a simple plan to connect Australian and African classrooms transformed when Kerryn discovered the harsh realities facing Ugandan schoolgirls. Learning that girls missed school because they had to fetch contaminated water or lacked sanitary supplies—often leading to abuse, early marriage, or worse—Kerryn pivoted her organization to address these fundamental needs. Through solar power installation, clean water access, and student sponsorships, One Planet Classrooms literally saved lives. Kerryn's humanitarian work expanded further with Girls with Hammers, a movement empowering women to embrace their authentic selves. As she reflects on these experiences, Kerryn offers this powerful takeaway: we don't need to have everything figured out to make a difference. Sometimes, the most impactful journeys begin with simply raising your hand and saying, "I'll do it." Ready to make your own impact? Kerryn's story proves that even our "failures" can lead to extraordinary positive change when we keep showing up and taking that next step. What difference could you make today? https://www.kerrynvaughan.com/

Let's be friends! Storytelling has the power to bridge divides in ways direct confrontation cannot. In this captivating conversation with author Corinne Cavanaugh, we explore how fiction creates safe spaces to navigate controversial topics and what it truly means to be an audacious woman. Corinne shares the genesis of her debut novel "An Audacious Woman," describing it as "a mashup between modern-day Bridgerton and Sex and the City." The book revolves around Eleanor Beaufort, a wealthy matriarch who feels trapped by her family legacy despite inheriting a $70 million mansion. Through Eleanor's journey, readers glimpse moments of boldness that inspire reflection on their own abandoned audacity—those times before the weight of adult responsibility settled in. What makes this conversation particularly compelling is Corinne's personal transformation. With a Harvard master's degree and successful marketing career, she made the bold choice to pursue fiction writing. Her methodical approach—creating a 5-7 AM writing routine before work and learning from established authors—offers a blueprint for anyone wondering how to pursue their passions alongside existing commitments. Her advice? "Be bold faster. If you've got this inkling, this one idea you've been meaning to do, don't wait." Beyond literary pursuits, our discussion ventures into provocative territory as Corinne challenges the current culture of division. Drawing from her background studying democratization, she advocates for bringing difficult conversations back to the dinner table. "The public needs to be able to feel comfortable talking about these things," she explains, noting that her novel demonstrates how vulnerability and listening can lead to understanding. Whether you're contemplating a major life change, seeking permission to prioritize yourself, or simply wanting an engaging read, Corinne's insights will leave you contemplating what audacity might look like in your own life. After all, as she reminds us: "We've got one ride. Might as well go and chase them." https://corinnecavanaugh.com/home-corinne-cavanaugh/

Let's be friends! When menopause hits, it can feel like you're losing your mind. The symptoms—from anxiety and brain fog to crawly skin sensations and sleep disturbances—often arrive without warning and can disrupt every aspect of life. But as UK menopause expert Emma Seville explains, these experiences aren't signs of weakness; they're natural biological responses to changing hormone levels that affect 51% of the world's population. Our conversation peels back the layers of shame and confusion surrounding this life transition, offering a refreshingly honest look at what happens during perimenopause and menopause. Emma walks us through the science of how declining progesterone affects GABA levels in the brain, triggering anxiety, while fluctuating estrogen creates the perfect storm for mood swings. She explains why these hormonal shifts impact everything from sleep quality to muscle mass, brain function to gut health. What makes this discussion truly valuable are the practical, accessible solutions Emma shares. Morning sunlight exposure for better sleep. Strength training to counter muscle loss. Walking with female friends to naturally lower cortisol levels. The beauty of these approaches? Most cost nothing and require minimal time investment, yet deliver significant benefits for managing symptoms and protecting long-term health. We also tackle the workplace challenges menopausal women face. While some UK companies have implemented formal menopause policies, many women worldwide struggle silently, often contemplating leaving careers they've built over decades. Emma offers strategies for having these difficult conversations with employers and colleagues, emphasizing that education and openness benefit everyone. Whether you're currently experiencing symptoms, approaching this life stage, or simply want to better understand what the women in your life might be going through, this episode provides a roadmap for navigating menopause with greater ease and confidence. Ready to transform this challenging transition into an opportunity for growth? Listen now and discover how to reclaim your power during menopause. https://www.yourmenopausetoolkit.com/ https://substack.com/@emmaseville?r=1phz4j&utm_medium=ios https://www.instagram.com/yourmenopausetoolkit/profilecard/?igsh=MTZzZHo4c3duMTJrZg%3D%3D https://www.linkedin.com/in/yourmenopausetoolk?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app

Let's be friends! Lizbeth Meredith's life reads like a thriller, but it's her real journey from domestic abuse survivor to international child recovery advocate that makes this conversation so powerful. After escaping an abusive marriage with her two young daughters, Lizbeth faced the unimaginable when her ex-husband abducted the children during a visit and fled overseas. What followed was a two-year international battle that tested every fiber of her being. With remarkable candor, Lizbeth reveals how she navigated contradictory advice from government agencies, survived on minimal resources, and maintained hope when everything seemed lost. "I scheduled my worry," she explains, describing the disciplined emotional management that kept her functioning through the ordeal. When finally reunited with her daughters, she faced new challenges – they no longer spoke English and carried deep trauma from their experience. The heart of Lizbeth's story isn't just about survival but transformation. Her professional work as a domestic violence advocate evolved into becoming a trauma-informed care trainer, fundamentally changing how she understood her daughters' behaviors and her own parenting approach. A powerful breakthrough came when her adult daughter experienced a mental health crisis that brought Lizbeth to a new level of understanding about trauma's lasting impact. Today, Lizbeth's memoir "Pieces of Me: Rescuing My Kidnapped Daughters" has become a Lifetime movie ("Stolen by Their Father"), and through her speaking and podcast "Persistence U with Lizbeth," she helps others increase resilience by "taming trauma through storytelling." Her message resonates beyond those who've experienced similar traumas – she reminds us that setbacks don't define us but can refine us, turning our most difficult experiences into sources of strength and connection. Visit https://lameredith.com/ to connect with Lizbeth and discover how your own challenges might become the foundation for unexpected strength and purpose.

Let's be friends! What happens when your identity is stripped away by a visa system designed to make you dependent? This is the reality for hundreds of thousands of immigrant women who arrive in America as accomplished professionals only to discover they're legally prohibited from working. Varuni  Sinha, author of the groundbreaking memoir "Golden Handcuffs and Immigrants' Pursuit of Happiness," takes us on her harrowing journey from successful advertising executive and academic in India to a woman battling depression and alcoholism in New York City. As the first South Asian woman to write openly about the H4 visa experience, she exposes how immigration laws have silently devastated careers and mental health since 1990. Her transformation began on the streets of New York, walking her dog through neighborhoods where strangers would inexplicably share their deepest secrets. These encounters—which she documented as "strangers on the street"—became her first step toward healing. The profound moment came when several men risked their lives to save her runaway dog from traffic, prompting her to reassess everything she'd been through as an immigrant. Drawing inspiration from Richard Phillips, who maintained his humanity during 46 years of wrongful imprisonment by creating watercolor paintings, Varuni channeled her pain into creativity. Despite facing pregnancy loss and her mother-in-law's terminal illness during COVID, she completed her manuscript—a testament to resilience that readers from all backgrounds have found deeply relatable. Varuni's message transcends the immigrant experience: we all have our own "golden handcuffs," situations that feel imprisoning but contain the seeds of our transformation. "We all fall down," she reminds us, "only to learn how to build ourselves back again, brick by brick." Her story isn't just about survival—it's about emerging from darkness with a more beautiful understanding of what it means to be human. https://varuni-sinha.squarespace.com/about-me

Let's be friends! Dive into the world of financial literacy as we chat with Stephanie Carchia, a financial advisor-turned-real estate agent who shares invaluable insights on managing money effectively. In this engaging episode, we explore how financial conversations are often sidelined and the impact they have, especially on women's confidence in their financial decisions. Stephanie discusses her transformative journey from the hedge fund industry to helping individuals navigate their financial futures, emphasizing accessibility and demystifying money. You will discover the importance of conducting annual financial reviews, understanding the necessity of having legal documents in place, and the critical role of life insurance. We decode the intimidating aspects of money management into digestible pieces that empower individuals to take charge. Stephanie encourages everyone to challenge their fears and build awareness about financial health.  With practical tips and motivational advice, this episode equips you to transform your relationship with money. Tune in to learn the first steps you can take to start managing your finances better. Don't forget to join the conversation by sharing your financial goals and experiences! You can seize control of your financial future starting today! sc@screalestategrp.cpm @stephsellssocal 

Let's be friends! Rediscovering Humanity in Business with Amy Anderson 🌟 What can a turtle teach us about teamwork? Dive into this captivating conversation with Amy Anderson, co-founder of Wild Coffee Marketing, as she shares her transformative journey from working with iconic brands like Calvin Klein to building her own values-driven company. Amy’s story is a masterclass in resilience, leadership, and creating a thriving workplace culture that values people over profits. 🧠 Key Takeaways from Amy’s Insightful Leadership Journey: 🐢 Teamwork Lessons from a Turtle: Learn the surprising parallels between nature and team dynamics. 🛠️ Building Workplace Belonging: Discover how workplace satisfaction directly impacts personal fulfillment. 🤝 The Humanity Factor: Why understanding individual motivations is the key to fostering trust and collaboration. 💻 Mastering Remote Work: Amy’s Innovative Strategies 🎭 "Mullet Meetings" & On-Camera Culture: Injecting humor and adaptability into virtual team management. 🌟 Psychological Safety: How creating a supportive environment helps Gen Z thrive at work. 🗣️ Icebreakers & Real-Time Feedback: Tools to transform team dynamics and foster genuine connections. 🔑 Why You’ll Love This Episode: Amy’s holistic approach to leadership and teamwork goes beyond traditional strategies. By recognizing the humanity in every team member and valuing diverse interests, she shows how to build connections that inspire loyalty, creativity, and growth. 🎧 Tune in now to unlock the magic of belonging in the workplace! 👉 Connect with Amy Anderson Explore more about Amy and her values-driven marketing company, Wild Coffee Marketing. Let’s continue the conversation and elevate workplace culture together! https://wildcoffeemarketing.com/

Let's be friends! Mark your calendars for March 12th! Women in the Arena returns with an explosive Season 8 that promises to transform how you approach your professional and personal development journey. As your host, I'm bringing you unprecedented access to the most influential female leaders of our time who are ready to pull back the curtain on their success. These powerful women will share unfiltered truths, strategic insights, and hard-won wisdom that you simply won't hear anywhere else. We're diving deep into what it truly takes to level up in every role women play—from the boardroom to community leadership and beyond. This season centers on two powerful principles that have guided my own path: discovering your authentic value and creating a ripple effect by helping other women rise alongside you. Each episode creates a space where ambition meets community, where confidence isn't confused with ego, and where every listener is welcomed into our arena of growth and possibility. The anthem for this season says it perfectly: "Watch me shine." It's not about outshining others—it's about stepping fully into your power and illuminating the path for those following in your footsteps. Whether you're looking to make your next big career move, start a business venture, or simply find your voice in spaces where women have traditionally been sidelined, these conversations will equip you with actionable strategies and the mindset shifts needed to succeed. Ready to shine brighter than ever before? Subscribe now, share with the women in your circle who need to hear these messages, and join our community as we continue building a world where women don't just participate—we lead, we thrive, and we transform every arena we enter. Thank you for all of your support. If you like what you hear, please go check out more episodes at https://womeninthearena.net/ Want to connect with me? You can click the "let's be friends" link and send me a message! ***Last thing- This is my WISH LIST of interviews: • Joan Jett • Dolly Parton • Viola Davis • Ina Garten Maybe you can help a girl out...***

Let's be friends! 🎙 Breaking the Silence: Why Working Moms Need to Support Each Other in Corporate America In this vulnerable episode, Audra dives deep with Corporate Recovery Specialist, Caren Cooper, to uncover the often hidden and challenging experiences faced by working mothers in corporate America. Caren, who transitioned from corporate life to entrepreneurship, shares her journey through the relentless pressures of "doing it all"—balancing career and motherhood without a support system. Together, they explore why it’s crucial for women to unite, share their stories, and lift each other up in a world that often leaves working moms feeling isolated and overwhelmed. Highlights include: 🌟 The Reality of Corporate Pressures: Unpacking how hustle culture and societal expectations impact working moms 👩‍👧 Balancing Motherhood & Career: The push-and-pull between career ambitions and the guilt of not being “enough” at home 💬 The Power of Community: The importance of connecting, supporting, and speaking honestly with each other 💪 Permission to Be Real: Giving yourself grace and releasing the pressure to “do it all” perfectly This episode is a rallying cry for working moms to shed societal expectations, embrace their identities, and lean on each other. It’s a must-listen for those seeking connection, authenticity, and a community that understands the unique journey of being a working mom in today’s world. https://www.linkedin.com/in/carencooper/ Thank you for all of your support. If you like what you hear, please go check out more episodes at https://womeninthearena.net/ Want to connect with me? You can click the "let's be friends" link and send me a message! ***Last thing- This is my WISH LIST of interviews: • Joan Jett • Dolly Parton • Viola Davis • Ina Garten Maybe you can help a girl out...*** Go check out all of our episodes on our website at: https://womeninthearena.net/ If you'd like to connect, reach out to me at audra@womeninthearena.net ***One last thing...I have an interview wish list because a girl's gotta dream Viola Davis Dolly Parton Ina Garten Joan Jett Maybe one of you can help me out! Thank you all for supporting this show and all Women in the Arena!

Let's be friends! 🚀 Never Too Old, Never Too Late: Heidi Love’s Inspiring Journey of Chasing a 40-Year-Old Dream! What happens when you decide it’s never too late to chase the dreams you had as a teenager? Heidi Love is proof that no matter your age, your past, or how wild your dreams may seem, it’s never too crazy to reignite your passion and go for it! Join us in this powerful conversation as Heidi shares her remarkable journey of transformation, where a teenage dream to visit the Bay of Virgins in French Polynesia was pushed aside for decades—only to be reignited later in life.  🌟 After a career, a marriage, and motherhood, Heidi decided to follow the call of her youthful passion, setting sail on the adventure of a lifetime. 🎯 Key Moments from Heidi’s Story: ✨ Rekindling a Dream at Any Age: Heidi’s pursuit of her childhood dream proves that it's never too late to go after what truly excites you. 👩‍🎓 Balancing Life’s Challenges: Learn how Heidi balanced motherhood, a career, and a marine biology degree while pursuing her passion. ⚡ Facing Past Trauma on the High Seas: Feel the intensity as Heidi battles PTSD during extreme lightning storms, but refuses to let her past hold her back. 🌸 Learning from a Matrilineal Society: Discover the powerful lessons of gratitude, presence, and self-acceptance she learned from the Cunayala people, and how it shifted her worldview. 💦 Taking the Leap: Heidi’s life-changing dive into the Pacific Ocean was more than a swim—it was a plunge into healing, courage, and reclaiming her story. No dream is too old or too wild to chase. Heidi’s journey reminds us that it’s never too late to reignite the spark inside and pursue the dreams that set our souls on fire. 🎧 Listen to her story and be inspired to chase your own dreams—no matter where you are in life. 🌍 Visit https://www.heidiloveauthor.com/ to connect with Heidi and learn more about her journey of resilience, healing, and adventure. Thank you for all of your support. If you like what you hear, please go check out more episodes at https://womeninthearena.net/ Want to connect with me? You can click the "let's be friends" link and send me a message! ***Last thing- This is my WISH LIST of interviews: • Joan Jett • Dolly Parton • Viola Davis • Ina Garten Maybe you can help a girl out...*** Go check out all of our episodes on our website at: https://womeninthearena.net/ If you'd like to connect, reach out to me at audra@womeninthearena.net ***One last thing...I have an interview wish list because a girl's gotta dream Viola Davis Dolly Parton Ina Garten Joan Jett Maybe one of you can help me out! Thank you all for supporting this show and all Women in the Arena!

Let's be friends! 🌍 Embark on a Global Journey with Phyllis "Phiphi" Kaplan Join us for a captivating episode as we dive into the extraordinary life of Phyllis "Phiphi" Kaplan, an explorer at heart and a citizen of the world. Raised in the vibrant streets of New York City and the serene landscapes of Long Island, Phiphi's insatiable curiosity has led her across the globe—from the artistic enclaves of Ecuador to the breathtaking beauty of the Galapagos Islands. Through her work with Ziba Designs, Phiphi masterfully blends fine art with commercial design, all while advocating for slow travel and deep cultural immersion. 🌱✨ In this episode, we explore: ✈️ The Power of Slow Travel: How immersing yourself in local cultures can transform your global perspective. 🧵 Ziba Designs: The fusion of fine art and textiles—creating beauty with a purpose. 🌾 Bali’s Spiritual and Agricultural Heritage: The vital role of upachada ceremonies and honoring the rice goddess Dewi Sri. 🍚 Sawah Bali Project: A groundbreaking initiative promoting organic rice farming with indigenous grains to support local farmers. 🌿 Sustainable Solutions: How Bali’s traditional farmers are adapting to modern pressures from tourism. As we journey through Bali, we reflect on the balance between progress and tradition, and why valuing process over results can lead to deeper fulfillment. Phiphi’s inspiring perspective invites us to embrace gratitude and curiosity, discovering lesser-known wonders with open hearts and minds. 🎧 Tune in for an enriching conversation that spans cultures, continents, and generations. It's a reminder to stay curious, stay engaged, and celebrate the beauty of the world around us. https://www.sawahbali.org/ Thank you for all of your support. If you like what you hear, please go check out more episodes at https://womeninthearena.net/ Want to connect with me? You can click the "let's be friends" link and send me a message! ***Last thing- This is my WISH LIST of interviews: • Joan Jett • Dolly Parton • Viola Davis • Ina Garten Maybe you can help a girl out...*** Go check out all of our episodes on our website at: https://womeninthearena.net/ If you'd like to connect, reach out to me at audra@womeninthearena.net ***One last thing...I have an interview wish list because a girl's gotta dream Viola Davis Dolly Parton Ina Garten Joan Jett Maybe one of you can help me out! Thank you all for supporting this show and all Women in the Arena!

Let's be friends! From Burnout to Bliss: How Jessica DeAngelo Transformed Her Life Through Nature 🌿 Feeling trapped in the never-ending corporate grind? Jessica DeAngelo knows the feeling all too well. In this episode, we dive deep into her inspiring journey from corporate exhaustion to rediscovering peace and clarity in the great outdoors. 🌍 After years of leading global sales and strategy with Fortune 100 companies, Jessica made a life-changing decision. It all started with an impromptu hike through Portland's Forest Park—what she found was a new path to success, free from burnout and full of purpose. 🗻 Discover how 31 days of daily hiking during a brutal Idaho winter reshaped Jessica’s life. She shares how her outdoor adventure reignited her passion and creativity, revealing the profound benefits of nature on mental well-being and professional growth. ✨ What You'll Learn in This Episode 🌱 Unlock the Healing Power of Nature: Learn how tech-free hikes can reduce stress, improve creativity, and even combat cravings for unhealthy foods. 🧠 Boost Your Mental Clarity: Jessica explains how reconnecting with nature can silence negative self-talk and enhance cognitive function. 🥾 Take the Hike 31 Challenge: Commit to 31 days of daily hikes and transform your mindset, body, and soul. 🔊 Whether you’re a corporate leader feeling overwhelmed or an entrepreneur searching for new inspiration, this episode is your guide to tapping into nature’s transformative power. Listen now and start your journey from burnout to bliss! https://jessicadeangelo.com/ Text HIKE to 33777 for more info! #HIKE31 #HIKE31CHALLENGE  Thank you for all of your support. If you like what you hear, please go check out more episodes at https://womeninthearena.net/ Want to connect with me? You can click the "let's be friends" link and send me a message! ***Last thing- This is my WISH LIST of interviews: • Joan Jett • Dolly Parton • Viola Davis • Ina Garten Maybe you can help a girl out...*** Go check out all of our episodes on our website at: https://womeninthearena.net/ If you'd like to connect, reach out to me at audra@womeninthearena.net ***One last thing...I have an interview wish list because a girl's gotta dream Viola Davis Dolly Parton Ina Garten Joan Jett Maybe one of you can help me out! Thank you all for supporting this show and all Women in the Arena!

Let's be friends! 🌟 Ever wondered how a first-generation American builds an empire from scratch? Meet the incredible Trixy Castro, a powerhouse entrepreneur who has founded over 50 companies, including Genesis Capital and Hudson Marshall. In this episode, Trixy shares her inspiring journey from advocating for her mother as a child to launching her first company at just 14 years old. Her story embodies resilience, innovation, and the strength found in community support. 🔥 What You'll Discover: 🚀 Building an Investment Empire: From securing $250 million in equity to navigating the unpredictable real estate market. 💼 Breaking Barriers in Business: Trixy shares her experience as the only woman in boardrooms, overcoming obstacles and shattering the corporate glass ceiling. 💡 Lessons in Leadership: Gain insights on women's leadership and personal growth, as Trixy emphasizes the importance of authenticity and resilience in the face of adversity 🏆 Unprecedented Success: How Trixy sold her firms to giants like Goldman Sachs and Fidelity, redefining success on her own terms. 🎧 This episode is for you if: You're a woman in business or leadership looking to break barriers. You're seeking inspiration to pursue your own entrepreneurial dreams. You want to learn how to turn challenges into opportunities for growth. Trixy's story is a powerful reminder that, with determination, innovation, and a relentless belief in yourself, you can achieve greatness. Tune in now to be inspired by her trailblazing journey! https://www.trixycastro.com/ Thank you for all of your support. If you like what you hear, please go check out more episodes at https://womeninthearena.net/ Want to connect with me? You can click the "let's be friends" link and send me a message! ***Last thing- This is my WISH LIST of interviews: • Joan Jett • Dolly Parton • Viola Davis • Ina Garten Maybe you can help a girl out...*** Go check out all of our episodes on our website at: https://womeninthearena.net/ If you'd like to connect, reach out to me at audra@womeninthearena.net ***One last thing...I have an interview wish list because a girl's gotta dream Viola Davis Dolly Parton Ina Garten Joan Jett Maybe one of you can help me out! Thank you all for supporting this show and all Women in the Arena!

Let's be friends! Dive into this week’s episode of Women in the Arena as we sit down with Kash Rocheleau, the dynamic new CEO of Icon Foods. Kash's journey is anything but ordinary—what began as a desire to be a stay-at-home mom transformed into a trailblazing career in the corporate world. 🌟 Highlights of Kash's Journey: 💼 Unexpected Beginnings: Kash started at Icon Foods as an executive assistant, soon realizing her calling extended far beyond the role she was hired for. Her rapid ascent to CFO—despite lacking traditional experience—demonstrates the power of unyielding determination and strong mentorship. 🏗️ Building Credibility: Kash shares the importance of seizing every opportunity, no matter how small. From becoming forklift certified to embracing servant leadership, she reveals how these actions cemented her respect and credibility within the company. 🚀 Navigating Leadership in a Male-Dominated Industry: As a young female CEO, Kash faces unique challenges. Hear how she uses her strong voice to combat disrespect and drive an inclusive work culture, proving that small victories can have a big impact. 🌱 Embracing Failure & Growth: Kash opens up about the lessons learned from professional missteps, like presenting inaccurate financial data. She explains how these moments fueled her growth and strengthened her leadership. 💡 Networking & Mentorship: The episode concludes with Kash’s heartfelt insights on the value of networking, mentoring the next generation, and cherishing life’s chaotic phases. Join us for an inspiring conversation that celebrates Kash Rocheleau's remarkable leadership and the optimism she brings to the future of Icon Foods. https://www.linkedin.com/in/kash-rocheleau-a0678528/ Thank you for all of your support. If you like what you hear, please go check out more episodes at https://womeninthearena.net/ Want to connect with me? You can click the "let's be friends" link and send me a message! ***Last thing- This is my WISH LIST of interviews: • Joan Jett • Dolly Parton • Viola Davis • Ina Garten Maybe you can help a girl out...*** Go check out all of our episodes on our website at: https://womeninthearena.net/ If you'd like to connect, reach out to me at audra@womeninthearena.net ***One last thing...I have an interview wish list because a girl's gotta dream Viola Davis Dolly Parton Ina Garten Joan Jett Maybe one of you can help me out! Thank you all for supporting this show and all Women in the Arena!

Let's be friends! 🚀 Have you ever felt like life’s transitions stole your dreams? Join us in this transformative episode as we sit down with the incredible Michelle Gates Roberts, who bravely shares her journey through early pregnancy, battling a debilitating illness, and living in Asia for a decade. Despite society's expectations to simply "be content," Michelle faced isolation and depression head-on, emerging stronger with a mission to empower women facing similar challenges. 🎯 Key Takeaways: 🌱 From Grief to Empowerment: Discover how Michelle turned her deepest grief into a powerful force for good. 🔥 Trailblazing, Not Trailing: We redefine the term "trailing spouses," highlighting the courage and resilience required to navigate life’s biggest transitions. 🧘‍♀️ Embracing Stillness: Learn the importance of acknowledging emotions, embracing quiet moments, and using strategies like journaling to unlock new possibilities. 👩‍👧‍👦 Challenges for Women Over 40: Explore the unique struggles faced by women, particularly single mothers, in today's tough economic environment. 🤝 Power of Community: Understand how group coaching and community support can reignite dreams and provide the connection we all need post-pandemic. This episode is a must-listen for any woman looking to reclaim her dreams, find her voice, and build a supportive network where no one has to face life’s challenges alone. Tune in and be inspired to turn your own transitions into triumphs! https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-gates-roberts/ Thank you for all of your support. If you like what you hear, please go check out more episodes at https://womeninthearena.net/ Want to connect with me? You can click the "let's be friends" link and send me a message! ***Last thing- This is my WISH LIST of interviews: • Joan Jett • Dolly Parton • Viola Davis • Ina Garten Maybe you can help a girl out...*** Go check out all of our episodes on our website: https://womeninthearena.net/ If you are ready to tell your story or want to refer someone, please email me at audra@womeninthearena.net ***Last thing- I'd love to interview the following women: Joan Jett Dolly Parton Viola Davis Ina Garten Maybe you can help me get there**** Thank you all for supporting this show and all of the Women in the Arena!!

Let's be friends! 🎙️ Curious about political engagement and the intricacies of election campaigns? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Dr. Wendy Davis, a former Utah House of Representatives candidate and accomplished political science PhD from the University of Utah. Wendy shares her vast knowledge and experience, shedding light on the critical importance of informed voting and political socialization. 🔍 Highlights: 🌟 Political Awareness: Discover how family and educational institutions shape political awareness and learn about the significant surge in political interest, especially among women. 💪 Women in Politics: Explore the societal conditioning that influences women's perceptions of their qualifications and ambitions. Wendy and I reflect on our personal experiences and the challenges of overcoming deeply ingrained biases. 🗳️ Campaign Insights: Get an insider's look into the strategic manipulation and power plays behind political campaigns, and the influence of political parties on elections. Understand the unique challenges faced by third-party candidates  🌱 Youth Engagement: Learn about the importance of engaging younger generations in politics and ensuring every vote counts. ✨ Join us for this enriching episode that promises to challenge your perceptions and inspire action in your political journey. https://www.wendydavisutah.com/ Thank you for all of your support. If you like what you hear, please go check out more episodes at https://womeninthearena.net/ Want to connect with me? You can click the "let's be friends" link and send me a message! ***Last thing- This is my WISH LIST of interviews: • Joan Jett • Dolly Parton • Viola Davis • Ina Garten Maybe you can help a girl out...*** Go check out all of our episodes on our website: https://womeninthearena.net/ If you are ready to tell your story or want to refer someone, please email me at audra@womeninthearena.net ***Last thing- I'd love to interview the following women: Joan Jett Dolly Parton Viola Davis Ina Garten Maybe you can help me get there**** Thank you all for supporting this show and all of the Women in the Arena!!

Let's be friends! What if you could redefine what it means to live a fulfilled life? This week on Women in the Arena, we welcome the distinguished author Laura Carroll, who's spent over two decades studying women without children. Join us for an enlightening journey through her latest work, A Special Sisterhood: 100 Fascinating Women from History Who Have Never Had Children. Discover the immense contributions of childless women throughout history and challenge societal norms to explore how you can lead a meaningful life beyond outdated expectations. ✨ Awe-Inspiring Stories of Trailblazing Women ✨ 🏛️ Artemis: The Greek goddess known for her fierce protectiveness. 🎖️ Opha Mae Johnson: The pioneering first female Marine. 🗳️ Shirley Chisholm: A political powerhouse who broke barriers. Laura draws compelling modern-day parallels, likening Artemis's influence to Oprah's impact on young women today, and celebrates how these historic figures continue to inspire us. 🔍 Reflect on Your Choices 🔍 📰 Jovita Idar: A fearless journalist and activist. 🏕️ Juliette Gordon Low: The visionary founder of the Girl Scouts. Their stories underscore the importance of pursuing one's passions and living authentically, regardless of societal pressures. Join us as we honor these remarkable women and encourage you to live with intention and purpose, carving out a life path that's uniquely your own. https://lauracarroll.com/ Thank you for all of your support. If you like what you hear, please go check out more episodes at https://womeninthearena.net/ Want to connect with me? You can click the "let's be friends" link and send me a message! ***Last thing- This is my WISH LIST of interviews: • Joan Jett • Dolly Parton • Viola Davis • Ina Garten Maybe you can help a girl out...*** Go check out all of our episodes on our website: https://womeninthearena.net/ If you are ready to tell your story or want to refer someone, please email me at audra@womeninthearena.net ***Last thing- I'd love to interview the following women: Joan Jett Dolly Parton Viola Davis Ina Garten Maybe you can help me get there**** Thank you all for supporting this show and all of the Women in the Arena!!