Sarah introduces the concept of allyship as more than mentorship, it’s about building intentional, relational partnerships that drive both cultural and business success. Drawing from her experience leading the Beyond Allies program, she explains how organizations can move from good intentions to meaningful action by embedding allyship into everyday behaviors.

A key framework discussed is the 70-20-10 leadership model: 70% of learning comes from experience, 20% from relationships, and 10% from formal education. Combined with emotional intelligence, this model helps individuals develop awareness, choice, motivation, empathy, and skills needed to become effective allies.

The conversation also explores the real-world impact of allyship—from amplifying women’s voices in meetings to calling out inappropriate behavior, even when women aren’t present. Sarah emphasizes that true allyship requires courage, consistency, and a willingness to act.

The episode doesn’t shy away from challenges. The hosts and Sarah reflect on the regression women experienced during COVID-19, the importance of top-down leadership support, and the measurable business benefits of inclusive cultures—like increased retention, innovation, and productivity.

For listeners looking to drive change, Sarah offers practical advice: start small, build cross-functional support, and frame allyship as a business imperative—not just a moral one.

This episode is a powerful reminder that creating equity at work isn’t just a women’s issue, it’s everyone’s responsibility.

5 Resources Mentioned

1. NextUp (nextupisnow.org) – Leadership development and allyship programs 
2. Beyond Allies Program – Structured allyship initiative created at NextUp 
3. 70-20-10 Leadership Development Model 
4. Emotional Intelligence (EQ) Framework (5 core elements) 
5. The Female Quotient – Community advancing gender equality in the workplace 

Quotes

1. “Allyship isn’t a title—it’s action. It’s what you say and what you do when no one’s watching.” 
2. “If women are half the workforce, men should be half the solution. That’s not radical—that’s reality.” 
3. “Inclusive cultures aren’t just good ethics—they’re good business. Retention, innovation, profit…all rise with allyship.”

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Dorothy shares the deeply personal journey that led her to co-found the global women’s community Women Belong. After her husband experienced a severe illness followed by a cancer diagnosis, Dorothy spent years balancing caregiving, grief, and entrepreneurship. During that time, she realized something profound: while she had professional success, she lacked a meaningful community that offered emotional connection and support.

That realization became the catalyst for Women Belong, an organization dedicated to helping women build authentic relationships, personal confidence, and entrepreneurial growth through community circles around the world.

Liz and Dorothy dive into why so many women still wait for permission to claim their place in the room—and how the next generation of female leadership is redefining belonging. From early career experiences where women had to adopt “masculine masks” to fit into corporate culture, to the current rise of female-led networks, the episode highlights how far women have come and why community remains essential.

Unlike traditional networking groups focused on transactions and sales, Women Belong emphasizes connection before commerce. Meetings begin with reflective quotes, encouraging women to share thoughts and personal insights before discussing business. The circles end with “gratitudes and brags,” helping women practice celebrating their wins and recognizing their value—something many women struggle to do publicly.

The conversation also explores larger cultural shifts: the rise of feminine leadership, the power of vulnerability, and the importance of abundance thinking rather than scarcity. Dorothy explains how inviting women into community—sometimes simply by extending an invitation—can unlock confidence, opportunity, and collaboration.

For listeners searching for an unapologetic women podcast, this episode is a reminder that belonging starts within ourselves—but grows exponentially when women lift each other up.

Ultimately, Liz and Dorothy agree: when women gather with intention, vulnerability, and generosity, they create the conditions for lasting impact—not only in business, but in the world.

Resources & References Mentioned

• Women Belong
• Man's Search for Meaning
• Being Mortal
• Neil deGrasse Tyson
• Marianne Williamson

Highlihgt Quotes

1. “Belonging begins with ourselves—but it grows when women gather and lift each other up.”
2. “Networking shouldn’t start with a business card. It should start with a conversation about who you are.”
3. “Women have been waiting for permission to belong. The truth? We were always invited.”
4. “When women stop competing and start celebrating each other, everything changes.”
5. “We are made of stardust—so why are we afraid to shine?”

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The conversation turns poignant as Debbie reflects on the sudden loss of her husband at age 45 and how that life-altering moment pushed her to choose between remaining in grief or embracing life as a “free spirit.” Through spiritual exploration, meditation, and unexpected experiences like Moon Lodge gatherings, Debbie began rediscovering joy and purpose.

She also discusses her work with past-life regression and intuitive readings inspired by the teachings of Edgar Cayce, explaining how understanding patterns from past lives can help people grow spiritually and emotionally in the present. Debbie shares fascinating stories from her own regressions and client readings, exploring ideas such as “old souls,” soul lessons, and how curiosity can open new paths to healing.

Ultimately, Debbie’s message is simple but powerful: joy doesn’t magically arrive—you must choose to seek it. By staying open, embracing curiosity, and trusting life’s serendipity, we can transform pain into growth and live more fully aligned lives.

Resources & References Mentioned

1. Edgar Cayce – The “Sleeping Prophet” known for intuitive readings and the concept of accessing the Akashic Records
2. The Dragon Doesn’t Live Here Anymore by Alan Cohen
3. Akashic Records – Spiritual concept described as a universal “book of life”
4. Healing Touch – Energy-based therapeutic approach Debbie practices
5. YMCA – Where Debbie spent decades teaching swimming and water exercise

Highlight Quotes

1. “Joy doesn’t arrive all at once. It shows up in sparks—moments of curiosity that slowly reopen your life.”
2. “You can choose to live in grief forever… or choose to become the free spirit you were meant to be.”
3. “When you stay curious about life, the universe has a funny way of opening doors you didn’t even know were there.”

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Drawing on lessons from her great-grandmother in Brinkley, Arkansas, Shanita shares how “front porch leadership” starts with listening, knowing your audience, and resisting the pressure of immediacy. Through rich metaphors—sweet potato pie problems that need time to bake and collard green challenges that require rinsing, repeating, simmering, and stirring—she reframes leadership as both strategic and soulful.

The conversation explores mentorship, reverse mentorship, collaboration, and the power of quiet presence. Shanita reflects on early classroom missteps and how stepping back allowed others to shine—ultimately strengthening her own leadership impact.

Her message is clear: leadership isn’t about dominating the stage. It’s about serving first, stirring thoughtfully, and preparing the next generation to lead. Pull up a rocking chair—this episode delivers wisdom with warmth, humor, and heart.

🔗Resources & References Mentioned

1. The Front Porch Leader: Great Grand’s Recipe for Success by Shanita Baraka Ante
2. Columbia College Chicago
3. Harvard University
4. Forbes (Contributor platform)
5. The Motion Agency (Podcast sponsor)

Highlight Quotes

1. “You don’t have to be the sage on the stage—be the guide on the side.”
2. “Sometimes leadership means letting the pie bake—and having the courage to stir the pot.”
3. “Serve others first, listen deeply, and trust that your quiet presence can be your greatest power.”

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Rachel shares how boundaries shape the way people treat you, why they’re a form of self-love, and how failing to set them can lead to burnout, resentment, and lost identity—especially for recovering people-pleasers. The conversation explores parasocial relationships, oversharing online, navigating fan expectations, and setting firm but kind limits without losing connection. Rachel also opens up about learning to rest, listening to her body, and recognizing that people who resist boundaries are often the ones benefiting from their absence.

Together, the hosts and Rachel discuss releasing relationships that no longer serve you, communicating boundaries clearly (especially in neurodiverse spaces), and redefining—not ending—relationships when needed. The episode wraps with a fun “keep it or tweak it” boundary game, reinforcing one powerful takeaway: healthy boundaries don’t push people away—they protect your energy, your worth, and your future.

Resources & References Mentioned

1. TwitchCon – Industry conference for streamers and creators
2. TikTok Top 50 Streaming Creators List – Recognition referenced in Rachel’s career
3. Forbes – Mentioned as a perceived authority used to reinforce boundaries in professional settings

Tweet-Length Highlight Quotes

1. “Boundaries are self-love. The people most upset by them are usually the ones benefiting from their absence.”
2. “You can be kind, polite, and firm at the same time—boundaries don’t require being harsh.”

“The world won’t stop turning if you rest. You’re allowed to refill your cup.”

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Drawing from a career that spans radio (including Chicago’s WXRT), award-winning leadership in the Chicago Association of Direct Marketing, and founding her own studio, Meg reframes readiness as confidence, curiosity, and connection—not perfection. She emphasizes trusting cumulative experience, asking for help, and avoiding “analysis paralysis,” while embracing small, situational wins along the way.

The conversation dives into defining success on your own terms, navigating sexism with grace and gravitas, and why mentorship and human connection still matter in a world of Google and AI. Meg also shares formative lessons from her father about risk, courage, and believing you can—lessons that fueled her leadership style rooted in humility, calm, and grace.

This episode is a reminder that success will come—and when it does, being open, prepared, and supported makes all the difference.

Resources & References Mentioned

1. Stephen Covey – Begin with the End in Mind
2. Chicago Association of Direct Marketing (CADM)
3. WXRT Chicago (Indie Rock Radio Station)

Highlight Quotes

1. “Being ready for success doesn’t mean having all the answers—it means trusting yourself enough to ask for help.”
2. “Gravitas, humility, and grace: confidence without ego, leadership without fear.”
3. “Success is situational. Sometimes it’s building a $20M company—sometimes it’s just finishing the mile.”

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Their guests are award-winning children’s author Lori Orlinsky and her daughter Ellie, co-creators of the book Being Middle, which reclaims the often-misunderstood experience of being a middle child. What began as Ellie feeling “lost in the shuffle” between siblings became a collaborative, empowering storytelling journey that reframed the narrative from “stuck in the middle” to “I get to be in the middle.”

The conversation explores how literature can help children process big emotions, celebrate differences, and build confidence. Lori shares how her books—many inspired directly by her children—have resonated far beyond her own family, including deeply moving moments reading to patients at Lurie Children’s Hospital. Ellie, meanwhile, reflects on how the book helped her embrace her role as a bridge-builder, helper, and leader at school.

With humor, vulnerability, and wisdom from fellow middle children, this episode reminds parents, leaders, and kids alike that being seen—and truly listened to—can change everything.

📚 Resources & References Mentioned

1. Being Middle by Lori Orlinsky
2. Being Small by Lori Orlinsky
3. Lurie Children’s Hospital (Chicago)

Highlight Quotes

1. “You’re not stuck in the middle—you get to be in the middle. That’s power.” — Ellie
2. “Stop parenting the child you had and start parenting the child you have.” — Lori Orlinsky
3. “Everything in life is a ‘get to.’ Find the glimmers and choose gratitude.” — Mary Tobiason

You can find us wherever you listen to podcasts or watch us on YouTube.

Cindy shares the mission of Honor Flight Chicago, the largest Honor Flight program in the country, which has flown more than 12,000 World War II, Korean War, and Vietnam veterans to Washington, D.C. for a deeply moving “day of honor.” The experience often becomes a catalyst for healing, gratitude, and storytelling — especially for Vietnam veterans who were never thanked when they returned home.

Beyond the flights, the organization now engages students and communities through Operation Education and veteran-story podcasts, helping younger generations understand the reality — not just the history — of military service. Cindy also highlights the powerful ripple effect on families, volunteers, and everyday people who witness the welcome-home celebrations.

She reminds us that service comes in many forms — donations, time, skills, or simply thanking a veteran. And sometimes, saying “yes” to service unlocks unexpected passion and purpose. This inspiring conversation is a reminder that honoring those who served is about connection, gratitude, and humanity — and that every one of us has the power to make a difference.

3 Resources or References Mentioned

• Honor Flight Chicago — https://www.honorflightchicago.org
• Operation Education (Honor Flight Chicago classroom program) — via Honor Flight Chicago
• Department of Defense Information School (DINFOS) — https://www.dinfos.dma.mil

Highlight Quotes

1. “A simple ‘thank you for your service’ can light up a veteran’s world — sometimes it’s the first time they’ve ever heard it.”
2. “Honor Flight isn’t just a trip. It’s healing, storytelling, and a ripple of gratitude that spreads across generations.”
3. “Service doesn’t always mean writing a check. Sometimes it’s your time, your talent — or your voice — that changes lives.”

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Lisa explains why dating apps leave people emotionally drained, overwhelmed by choice, and worried about their safety — and how professional matchmaking flips the script with vetted introductions, personal coaching, and post-date feedback. She walks listeners through why more men than women invest in matchmaking, why quality singles are so hard to meet “in the wild,” and why being open-minded is the #1 rule in modern dating.

Packed with real success stories (including one woman who said “absolutely not” to a match — and then married him), this episode reminds us that perfection is an illusion, the right fit matters more than the right photo, and sometimes the best investment you can make… is in your love life.

🔗 Resources

1. Selective Search Matchmaking – https://www.selectivesearch.com
2. Film: Am I OK? (Dakota Johnson) / “The Materialists” reference
3. Bumble Dating App – https://bumble.com

💬Highlight Quotes

1. “Stop looking for the perfect person — start looking for the perfect fit. There’s a lid for every pot.”
2. “Dating apps give you endless options; matchmakers give you the right ones.”
3. “Be open, say yes, and get out of your own way — love rarely shows up exactly how you expect.”

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LaRae walks listeners through the surprising through-line between ranch life, undercover work, and studying theology: the ability to understand yourself deeply and manage your emotions under pressure. She reframes mental toughness not as bravado or stoicism, but as emotional awareness paired with intentional action. Through dramatic stories—including a harrowing undercover encounter, a 20-foot dive with an M16 despite her fear of water, and her first solo arrest—LaRae shows how clarity, authenticity, and mindset can change outcomes in even the most dangerous moments.

Listeners learn why self-awareness is the bedrock of courage, how to counter fear with five positive thoughts, and why authenticity is the most powerful tool in both field operations and boardrooms. LaRae’s lessons remind us that mental toughness isn’t loud—it’s strategic, grounded, and available to all of us.

Resources Mentioned

• Secrets of a Strong Mind by LaRae Quy
• Mental Toughness for Women Leaders by LaRae Quy
• The Mental Toughness Center – LaRaeQuy.com

You can find us wherever you listen to podcasts or watch us on YouTube.

In this episode, hosts Liz Brohan and Mary Olivieri tackle a feeling most women know all too well—imposter syndrome. Joined by powerhouse guests Chris Harrington, Erin Courtney, and Lori Hghby hosts of The Broadcast for Manufacturers podcast, the group dives deep into how this self-doubt shows up, why it’s normal, and how to turn it into a source of strength.

From faking it till you make it (but not really) to embracing the word “yet” as a growth mindset tool, these leaders share honest stories—from standing in front of C-suite executives to teaching college classes unprepared—and the lessons that helped them push through. Their wisdom? Preparation, community, gratitude, and giving yourself permission to belong.

Whether you’re leading a team, starting a business, or stepping into a new role, this episode will help you flip that inner critic into an ally.

Resources Mentioned:

• The Broadcast for Manufacturers podcast – thebroadcastpodcast.com
• Carol Dweck’s Mindset: The New Psychology of Success – penguinrandomhouse.com
• StrengthsFinder 2.0 by Tom Rath – gallup.com

Highlight Quotes:

1. “If you feel imposter syndrome, it means you’re growing—lean into it.” – Chris Harrington
2. “Add the word ‘yet’ to your doubts. You can’t do it… yet.” – Liz Brohan
3. “Show up, do the work, and leave people better than you found them.” – Lori Highby

You can find us wherever you listen to podcasts or watch us on YouTube.

She discusses the making of Art and Pep, a moving portrayal of two Chicago LGBTQ+ activists and life partners who faced COVID together after decades of advocacy. Mercedes reveals how listening deeply, leading with empathy, and co-creating trust with her subjects turn everyday moments into extraordinary human stories.

The conversation also previews her new project on Picher, Oklahoma, a town displaced by environmental disaster, and the community’s resilience expressed through an annual Christmas parade.

Listeners will walk away with powerful lessons about collaboration, courage, and the transformative impact of listening.

Resources Mentioned / References:

Art and Pep Documentary – Daisy May Films

Breakfast at Ina’s Documentary

National Geographic: “Memory Choirs” by Mercedes Kane

💬 Highlight Quotes :

“The best stories aren’t found—they’re co-created through empathy, trust, and deep listening.” — Mercedes Kane 🎬✨

“Vulnerability is the bridge to truth. When people feel safe, their real story unfolds.” 💛 #KickAssWomen

“The magic of storytelling lies in revealing how much more alike we are than different.” 🌍🎥 #WordsOfWisdomPod

You can find us wherever you listen to podcasts or watch us on YouTube.

She takes us inside her early political influences, working with Jesse Jackson’s 1988 presidential campaign, and launching her consultancy that has helped elect influential leaders like Bobby Rush. Delmarie speaks candidly about what it means to speak truth to power, why discipline wins campaigns, and how women can step into leadership without waiting to be asked.

Together, the trio tackles the structural and cultural barriers women face in politics—especially around confidence, fundraising, and public perception. Delmarie also makes a compelling case for the power of local politics as a launchpad for national influence, drawing inspiration from Kamala Harris’s trajectory.

This is a masterclass in unapologetic activism, strategic savvy, and courage to lead.

📚 Resources Mentioned

• Ida’s Legacy PAC — https://www.idaslegacypac.org
• Jesse Jackson 1988 Presidential Campaign Archive
• Kamala Harris — Official biography and career timeline

✨ Highlight Quotes 

1. “Everything is a campaign. Disciplined campaigns win, undisciplined ones lose.” — Delmarie Cobb
2. “Women can’t wait to be asked to run. Men don’t — they just decide and do it.” — Delmarie Cobb
3. “Local politics is the springboard to national power. That’s where change begins.” — Delmarie Cobb

You can find us wherever you listen to podcasts or watch us on YouTube.

3 Resources/References Mentioned

1. Lincoln Way City Lifestyle – https://citylifestyle.com
2. Northern Illinois University MBA Program – https://www.niu.edu/mba
3. Inc. 5000 Fastest-Growing Companies List – https://www.inc.com/inc5000

3 Highlight Quotes

1. “Today’s careers aren’t about climbing the ladder—they’re about crossing bridges to new skills, roles, and impact.”
2. “Gen Z isn’t chasing titles—they’re chasing purpose, impact, and work that aligns with their values.”
3. “Leveraging human capital means more than filling roles—it’s about keeping people motivated, balanced, and inspired.”

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Anna is a global board director, two-time CEO, and the first Latina and immigrant to serve on multiple Fortune 250 boards. With over 30 years of executive experience spanning public companies, private equity, and nonprofits, she brings unmatched insight into governance, strategy, and leading with courage.

Together, Liz, Marie, and Anna dig into the urgent question: How do women stick their necks out for other women in a moment when hard-won progress is at risk? The conversation spans:

• Why women can’t afford to retreat on pay equity, reproductive rights, and representation.
• How personal stories—like Anna reshaping maternity leave policy—can spark systemic change.
• The importance of shifting the DEI narrative from ideology to business impact.
• Why resilience, creativity, and asking for help are essential leadership tools.
• The power of paying it forward by lifting up women for board seats, leadership roles, and opportunities.

Marie shares lessons from her decades of activism and government leadership, while Anna underscores the urgency of unity, resilience, and showing that equity isn’t just the right thing—it’s good business.

This episode is a rallying cry for women at every level: speak up, innovate, advocate for one another, and never settle for silence when progress is on the line.

Resources & References

1. Harvard Business Review – featuring Anna Dora’s insights on leadership and governance.
2. Forbes – coverage of Anna’s work as a pioneering Latina executive.
3. Life Made From Scratch – Marie Newman’s prescriptive memoir on creating change from the ground up.

Highlight Quotes

1. “Helping another woman succeed isn’t charity—it’s leadership. Pay it forward, always.”
2. “Equity isn’t ideology. It’s smart business strategy that drives talent, growth, and resilience.”
3. “This is not the time to retreat. It’s the moment to double down, speak up, and stick your neck out.”

You can find us wherever you listen to podcasts or watch us on YouTube.

Marie’s journey is one of resilience and reinvention. She shares how deeply personal experiences—including her son’s struggles with bullying, her daughter’s journey as a transgender teen, and her own time in Congress—shaped not only her advocacy but also her leadership style. Each moment required a reset, a reevaluation, and a bold step forward.

The conversation dives into the parallels between fictional heroines and real women who must constantly adapt, highlighting how resilience isn’t about avoiding setbacks but about navigating them with clarity and courage. Marie offers tangible advice for anyone facing upheaval: how to start small, find your footing, and rebuild momentum after a setback.

Listeners will also hear insights from her new book, A Life Made from Scratch, which weaves together her personal story with lessons for women everywhere who’ve had to “pivot fast” when life had other plans. This episode is filled with wisdom, humor, and practical strategies for anyone who’s ever had to pick themselves up, dust themselves off, and keep going.

If you’ve ever wondered how to turn a “WTF moment” into a stepping stone, Marie’s words will inspire you to keep moving—even when the path is anything but straight.

Resources 

A Life Made from Scratch by Marie Newman – [Book link placeholder]

Highlight Quotes 

1. “Life doesn’t happen in straight lines—it happens in pivots. The power is in how we respond.” – Marie Newman
2. “You don’t need to move mountains overnight. Start small, but start real.” – Marie Newman
3. “Setbacks don’t define you—how you rebuild after them does.” – Marie Newman

You can find us wherever you listen to podcasts or watch us on YouTube.

She opens up about the fears she faced launching a business, raising prices, and asking her husband to leave his job to join her team.

Lori reflects on how identifying fear helped her take powerful steps forward, including donating a kidney to a near-stranger—an act she credits to divine guidance. 

With stories of ballroom dancing, mentorship, and building workplaces where people can thrive authentically, Lori exemplifies what it means to lead with heart and courage. Tune in for a deeply motivating conversation about growth, gratitude, and pushing past self-imposed limits.

Resources & Mentions:

1. Brilliance Business Solutions
2. Norland Lefe Food Manufacturing
3. Inc. 5000 Fastest-Growing Companies
4. Kick-Ass Women Website
5. Lori McDonald on LinkedIn

Highlight Quotes:

1. "What would you do if you weren’t afraid? I put that on my wall—and it changed everything."
2. "Delegation is growth—for you and the person you're trusting with the task."
3. "I donated a kidney because of a dream. Fear didn’t stop me—faith led me."

You can find us wherever you listen to podcasts or watch us on YouTube.

The conversation kicks off with a nod to Eleanor Roosevelt—one of the original trailblazers. Velinda shares a quote that’s shaped her perspective: “Well-behaved women seldom make history.”

Velinda opens up about being the only woman in a room full of men early in her career, and how that experience shaped her approach to leadership. Her practical tips? Show up early, do your research, and find someone to connect with ahead of time. Oh—and if you’re ever at a traditional Japanese business table, she’ll even tell you where the most powerful seats are.

She’s got stories—great ones—from the conference room and beyond. And she shares hard-earned advice on how to walk into meetings prepared, confident, and ready to lead.

For younger women trying to find their voice, Velinda offers guidance rooted in mentorship. Coaches, mentors, and a willingness to listen can make all the difference. Speaking of listening, she explains the power of active listening—not just waiting to talk but really hearing and understanding.

The team takes a moment to define what a kick ass woman really is—with strong, pithy responses from Velinda, Liz, and Mary. They also reflect on key moments that helped build their confidence over the years.

Velinda dives into the reality of imposter syndrome. Yes, it’s real—but she believes it can be useful, too. She shares her own journey of learning to be her own best supporter, embracing mistakes. Hear about Liz and Mary’s very awkward and long-ago interaction about a Johnson Box.

As the episode wraps up, Liz expresses her ongoing passion for helping the next generation of women thrive—and Mary brings it home by reminding us that this podcast exists to do exactly that.

Velinda’s final message is clear: Work hard. Show up early. Make friends. Share your ideas. Don’t hide who you are.

Thanks to The Motion Agency and EMBAS for supporting Kick Ass Women.

Follow along on social media and at www.kick-ass-women.com!

You can find us wherever you listen to podcasts or watch us on YouTube.