Explore every episode of the podcast Badass Women in Business
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Breaking the Mold: Min Ju Kim on Golf, Glam, and Grit in Business | 17 Jun 2025 | 00:49:51 | |
Summary Min Ju Kim, founder of Zasin, joins the podcast to share her inspiring journey from D1 golfer to multi-venture entrepreneur. Born in South Korea and raised across three countries, Kim brings global perspective, grit, and creative vision to her mission of empowering women through sportswear, self-expression, and storytelling. She discusses launching Zasin, a pre-seed women’s golf athluxury brand challenging the male-dominated sportswear industry; Juju on the Gem, a luxury tooth gem and creative styling business; and her work in digital marketing. Kim dives into cultural identity, mentorship, and entrepreneurship, revealing the personal battles she faced—from breaking parental expectations to bootstrapping her ventures while working as a restaurant server in NYC. Listeners are left with a core message: what you don’t change, you’re choosing—a reminder that daily habits and courageous choices shape our futures. Notes The Guest
Key Topics
Wisdom from Kim
Contact & Resources LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/miinjjkim
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| Pause, Reflect, Move Forward: How Holly Oldham Turned Cleaning into a Catalyst for Change | 10 Jun 2025 | 00:39:20 | |
Holly Oldham built a luxury cleaning business out of grit, grief, and one life-changing poem. After leaving a toxic marriage with just $100 in her wallet, Holly didn’t just survive, she created PRMF Cleaning (Pause Reflect Move Forward) and redefined what success looks like on her own terms. Today, she’s a sought-after house manager, janitorial sales coach, comedic poet, and advocate for safe, thriving spaces inside and out. In this episode, Holly brings fire, humor, and hard-won wisdom. She shares how being authentic, charging her worth, and turning pain into purpose helped her build a business that funds her freedom. Whether she’s cleaning million-dollar homes, writing dirty poetry, or teaching other cleaners to scale, Holly’s message is crystal clear: your mess can be your movement. Show Notes Inside this episode:
Favorite Holly-isms:
Resources & Mentions:
Connect with Holly Website: prmfluxurycleaning.com __________ Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:
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| Delight in the Limelight with Linda Ugelow: Uncovering and Releasing the Root of Speaking Anxiety | 08 Apr 2025 | 00:45:29 | |
Fear of public speaking doesn’t show up out of nowhere. In this deeply honest and uplifting conversation, Linda Ugelow joins us to share her journey from stage performer with intense speaking anxiety to a sought-after confidence and vocal coach. Linda helps entrepreneurs and professionals get comfortable being seen and heard, whether on camera, in a meeting, or on stage. She shares why the traditional advice to “push through the fear” often falls short, and how uncovering the root of that fear—usually found in personal history—can completely change your relationship with speaking. This episode is a powerful reminder that the goal isn’t just to get by when speaking, but to actually enjoy the experience and feel at home in your voice. Episode Notes
Guest Contact Info – Linda Ugelow Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:
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| S1:E7 From Cancer Survivor to Entreprenuer: Sherry Norris of Alala | 31 May 2022 | 00:59:13 | |
Aggie and Cristy are joined by Sherry Norris, co-owner of Alala, LLC in Columbia, South Carolina. Alala empowers women who are battling all forms of reproductive cancers, but specifically targets those in need of special forms of care or a professional breast prosthetic fitter. Sherry explains how one small decision in her young adult life lead her to her current venture and why she continues to push forward today. Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:
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| S1:E6 When to Sell Your Business: Sarah Buino of Head/Heart Therapy | 24 May 2022 | 00:55:51 | |
Sarah Buino, current owner and founder of Head/Heart Therapy, joins the program to discuss how she grew her own business in the field of mental health care. Based in Chicago, Sarah has evolved her venture to the point where she is now handing over business operations to her colleague to pursue more opportunities in the future. Aggie and Cristy learn how Sarah managed the ups and downs of her journey. Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:
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| S1:E5 Get to Know the Hosts: Aggie & Cristy | 20 May 2022 | 00:45:44 | |
The two hosts of Everyday Bad Ass Women Leaders, Aggie Chydzinski and Cristy O'Connor, discuss their backgrounds and what made them want to create this podcast. Both women have a plethora of experience working alongside businesses around the country. It was their experiences with real business owners, just like our listeners, that inspired them to give a platform to these brave individuals on their ventures. Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:
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| S1:E4 Mergers and Acquisitions 101: Natalie Roberts of iKadre | 19 Apr 2022 | 00:49:29 | |
Aggie and Cristy take a deep dive into the world of Mergers and Acquisitions, better known as M&A, with Natalie Roberts. Natalie shares how she left her previous role of working for companies such as Hewlett-Packard and EY to create her own M&A advising service, iKadre. How do you know if M&A is right to grow your business in the future? Find out more in this episode of Everyday Bad Ass Women Leaders. Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:
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| S1:E3 Restaurant Ownership Reimagined: Sarah Simmons of City Grit | 12 Apr 2022 | 01:04:07 | |
Chef, restaurateur and business leader Sarah Simmons joins the program to discuss growing her collection of restaurants located in Columbia, South Carolina. The pay structure she offers her employees is unique among the restaurant-industry and allows those that work for her to create better financial leverage for themselves. Aggie and Cristy learn how Sarah implemented these ideas and what experiences drove her to becoming an influential figure in Columbia's restaurant community. Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:
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| S1:E2 Reinventing Real Estate Marketing: Tianna Linton and Bailey Sitz of Ibis Creative | 23 Feb 2022 | 00:57:37 | |
Our hosts chat with Tianna Linton and Bailey Sitz, owners of Ibis Innovations located in Honolulu, Hawaii. The two discuss leaving their previous field of work for a more innovative market, how they plan to bring a modern approach to real estate marketing, and what allows them to thrive as a team. Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:
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| S1:E1 Coworking Spaces and Capital for Women: Nell Fuller of Femme Capital | 02 Feb 2022 | 00:47:24 | |
Aggie and Cristy chat with Nell Fuller, co-founder of femme Capital and the femme X Columbia coworking space located in Columbia, South Carolina. Nell discusses her journey as an entrepreneur and how shit gets done when women and men have equitable access to social, political, and financial capital. Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:
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| From Contracts and Candy to CEO: Building Businesses (and Balance) with Lakeisha Robichaux | 01 Apr 2025 | 00:38:29 | |
What happens when you mix childhood hustle, a deep commitment to faith, and two decades of leadership experience? You get Lakeisha Robichaux—CEO of Chief of Minds and a total force in the HR and business strategy space. In this episode, Lakeisha walks us through her journey from selling candy in middle school to building a thriving HR consultancy that’s redefining how businesses grow through people. She shares what she learned from her first failed business, how she leads with intention and integrity, and why HR should never be an afterthought. We dig into:
If you’re leading a team, growing a business, or trying to figure out how to do both without losing yourself, this episode is for you. 📇 Connect with Lakeisha Robichaux 🎙️ About the Show Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:
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| The Brown Way to Money: Rewriting Financial Stories with Alejandra Rojas | 25 Mar 2025 | 00:44:46 | |
What happens when a financial whiz kid grows up, burns out, and then decides to redefine the rules of money entirely? You get Alejandra Rojas—entrepreneur, money mentor, and founder of Brown Way to Money. In this episode, Alejandra shares her powerful story of growing up around ledgers and invoices, her Wall Street dreams, and the wake-up call that shifted everything. She walks us through how financial trauma shows up in entrepreneurship, how to clear it, and why our money stories—especially as women of color—deserve a complete rewrite. This one’s for the business owner who’s making money but still doesn’t feel “financially free.” Prepare for truth bombs, laughter, and a framework that centers you, your voice, and your lived experience. 📝 Episode Notes:
🔥 Favorite Quote: 📲 Connect with Alejandra Rojas: Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:
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| From the PR Frontlines: Alexandria Hammond on Owning Her Story and Shaping Brand Narratives | 18 Mar 2025 | 00:50:26 | |
Alexandria Hammond knows what it takes to make a brand stand out. A seasoned PR strategist and founder of BrandNEWS PR Consulting Firm, Alexandria has spent two decades crafting compelling stories, managing high-profile events, and ensuring her clients stay ahead of the media curve. From leading PR campaigns for major brands—including helping to make The Elf on the Shelf a household name—to navigating the fast-paced worlds of healthcare and sports, she has built a career on mastering the art of storytelling. In this episode, Alexandria shares her journey from corporate PR powerhouse to entrepreneur, breaking down what it really takes to build a personal brand, create meaningful media connections, and handle PR crises before they happen. She also talks candidly about the challenges of starting her own business, the lessons she’s learned along the way, and why every business—big or small—needs a PR strategy. If you’ve ever wondered how to get your brand noticed, how PR differs from marketing, or how to take control of your own narrative, this episode is a must-listen. Episode Notes: Guest: Alexandria Hammond Key Takeaways:
Connect with Alexandria:
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| Mastering Your Finances: Melissa Armstrong on Building Stronger Businesses Through Accounting & Advisory | 11 Mar 2025 | 00:42:11 | |
Numbers don’t have to be intimidating, and Melissa Armstrong is here to prove it. As a CPA, fractional controller, and founder of SteadyHand Accounting & Advisory, Melissa helps business owners streamline their accounting processes, gain financial clarity, and make smarter decisions. In this episode of Badass Women in Business, we dive into the real challenges business owners face with cash flow, risk management, and internal controls—and why no business is too small to start thinking about financial strategy. Melissa shares her unconventional journey from Puerto Rico to Spain, and finally to Colorado, where she built a business that helps entrepreneurs stay on top of their numbers without feeling overwhelmed. She also opens up about the realities of starting and scaling a business, the importance of community, and why understanding your financials is key to long-term success. Whether you’re a solopreneur juggling everything, or a growing business trying to get a handle on your cash flow, this episode is packed with insights to help you take control of your finances and set your business up for success. What We Cover:
Connect with Melissa Armstrong & SteadyHand Accounting & Advisory:
Melissa’s story is a testament to the power of taking risks, staying adaptable, and trusting yourself. Tune in and learn how to make your financials work for you—not the other way around. Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:
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| Ridding the World of Lazy Leadership: Julie Holunga on Direct Communication, Trust, and Taking Control of Your Career | 04 Mar 2025 | 00:50:54 | |
Julie Holunga is on a mission to rid the world of lazy leadership. With decades of experience coaching high-performing professionals, she knows what it takes to lead with confidence, communicate effectively, and build trust. In this episode, Julie dives into the importance of strong leadership language, why conflict is necessary for growth, and how professionals can step into their authority without self-sabotage. She shares her journey from working with Harvard Business School to launching her own leadership coaching practice, helping attorneys, CPAs, and business leaders master the Trusted Voice Paradigm. We also explore the generational shifts in leadership styles, the role of confidence in conflict resolution, and why pausing before reacting is the most underrated leadership skill. If you're ready to level up your leadership and communicate with clarity and conviction, this episode is for you. Notes:
Stay connected and learn more about Julie’s work in leadership development and executive coaching:
Julie is on a mission to transform leadership by fostering trust, communication, and impact—don’t miss out on her insights! Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:
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| Scaling with Purpose: Coco Sellman on Building High-Impact, High-Growth Businesses | 25 Feb 2025 | 00:42:19 | |
In this episode of the Badass Women in Business Podcast, Coco Sellman, a five-time founder and impact investor, shares her powerful insights into building businesses that achieve exponential growth through purpose-driven leadership. From founding and scaling her healthcare business, Allumé, to navigating its merger and successful exit, Coco reveals the crucial lessons she's learned along the way. Discover Coco’s strategies on how visionary women can lead innovative, profitable companies without losing sight of their purpose or their well-being. Show Notes:
Connect with Coco Sellman: Tune into this inspiring conversation, and discover how to become a fearless leader who scales businesses that make a lasting impact. Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:
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| Fearless & Financially Empowered: The Truth About Scaling to a Million-Dollar Business with Madeline Reeves | 18 Feb 2025 | 00:51:53 | |
In this episode of Badass Women in Business, we sit down with the unstoppable Madeline Reeves, Founder & CEO of Fearless Foundry. A fierce advocate for equity, transparency, and financial empowerment, Madeline shares her unfiltered journey—from struggling to balance ambition with life, to building a million-dollar business without the fairy tale myth of overnight success. She challenges outdated funding narratives, explains why women should be charging more, and dismantles the scarcity mindset that holds female founders back. We dive deep into pricing strategies, funding hacks, and how embracing community—not competition—is the key to growth. Plus, Madeline drops some serious truth bombs about corporate structures, burnout, and how she completely redefined the way she runs her business. This episode is a must-listen for any woman in business who’s tired of playing small, ready to own her worth, and looking for real strategies to scale without sacrificing herself in the process. 🔥 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
🔗 Connect with Madeline Reeves & Fearless Foundry:
🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:
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| Revolutionizing Women’s Health: Dr. Sara Naseri’s Mission to Unlock the Power of Menstrual Blood | 13 Feb 2025 | 00:35:42 | |
For centuries, menstrual blood was dismissed as waste—until Dr. Sara Naseri dared to challenge the status quo. As the co-founder and CEO of Qvin, she is leading the charge in revolutionizing women’s healthcare through non-invasive, accessible diagnostics using menstrual blood. In this episode, Dr. Naseri shares her 10-year journey from medical school to launching the first-ever FDA-cleared menstrual pad for A1C blood sugar monitoring, the Q-Pad. She unpacks the scientific breakthroughs that prove menstrual blood holds powerful health insights, from fertility and thyroid health to HPV detection. Dr. Naseri also discusses the barriers women face in healthcare, the challenges of securing funding in a male-dominated industry, and why listening to your intuition can be the key to unlocking your purpose. If you’ve ever doubted that one idea can change the world, this conversation will make you think again. Show Notes: Guest: Dr. Sara Naseri, Co-Founder & CEO of Qvin Topics Covered: Connect with Dr. Sara Naseri & Qvin: 🌎 Website: Qvin.com 🎙 Listen now on Badass Women in Business—because innovation starts with bold ideas. 💡 Loved this episode? Subscribe, rate, and review to keep hearing the stories of Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:
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| Breaking Barriers in Clean Energy: How Virginia Klausmeier is Reshaping the Future of Manufacturing | 11 Feb 2025 | 00:43:40 | |
Virginia Klausmeier, CEO and Founder of Sylvatex, is on a mission to revolutionize high-tech manufacturing and clean energy. With a background in chemistry and engineering, she’s driving sustainable solutions for battery materials while advocating for more women in leadership roles in STEM. In this episode, Virginia shares her journey from being underestimated to sitting at the table with the world’s top decision-makers, navigating the challenges of scaling a climate tech company, and why she believes the future of innovation depends on tapping into both strategy and intuition. Show Notes: What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Key Takeaways:
Resources & Links:
Final Thought: Listen Now: Available on all major podcast platforms. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review! Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:
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| Building SoulTech by Bridging Science and Spirit with Crystal Cassidy | 03 Jun 2025 | 00:42:44 | |
Show Notes:
• Crystal’s transition from genomic diagnostics and IPO-level biotech teams to building her own consumer platform Connect with Crystal:
Contact:
Like what you heard?
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| Trusting Your Gut: How Intuition Can Elevate Your Business and Life with Serin Silva | 06 Feb 2025 | 00:46:10 | |
Can intuition and corporate strategy work together? Serin Silva has spent her career proving that they can. With a background in Fortune 500 leadership, digital innovation, and high-stakes advertising, Serin built a name for herself launching multi-million-dollar brands and solving complex business problems. But it wasn’t until she fully embraced her intuitive abilities that she realized the missing piece of true success—trusting herself. Now, as an intuitive executive coach, medium, and business strategist, Serin helps high-achieving women reconnect with their inner wisdom, make aligned decisions, and lead with clarity. In this episode, she shares:
If you have ever struggled with self-doubt, decision fatigue, or feeling disconnected from your true path, this episode is a must-listen. Serin’s insights challenge conventional success metrics and offer a new way to think about leadership, strategy, and personal fulfillment. Show Notes: Guest: Serin Silva Topics Covered:
Connect with Serin Silva: Enjoying the show? Stay badass. Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:
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| Building a Brand While Balancing It All: Allison Herman’s Journey from Full-Time VP to Entrepreneur | 04 Feb 2025 | 00:42:35 | |
Starting a business doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing leap—it can be a strategic and intentional process. In this episode, we sit down with Allison Herman, the powerhouse behind Dragonwing, an activewear brand dedicated to empowering young girls through sport and style. Allison shares her journey of acquiring and scaling a brand while continuing to work full-time as a VP in the children’s apparel industry. She gives us an inside look at the due diligence process of acquiring a business, the challenges of rebranding and repositioning a product line, and how she manages her time, team, and resources to balance it all. We also dive into the importance of clear leadership, managing a remote team of contractors, and setting expectations—whether in a corporate setting or as an entrepreneur. Plus, Allison gets real about navigating criticism, handling the competitive dancewear market, and leveraging partnerships and marketing strategies to grow her brand. If you’ve ever wondered how to successfully juggle a business and a full-time career—or if acquiring an existing business might be the right move for you—this episode is packed with insights, hard-earned lessons, and practical strategies. Show Notes: Topics Covered in This Episode:
Connect with Allison Herman & Dragonwing:
Listen Now & Stay Badass! If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review. Your support helps us continue to feature inspiring, badass women in business. See you next time! Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:
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| The 3 C’s of Success: Community, Connection & Collaboration with Rochel Marie Lawson | 30 Jan 2025 | 00:56:43 | |
Success isn’t just about working harder—it’s about building the right community, making meaningful connections, and collaborating with the right people. Rochel Marie Lawson knows this better than anyone. As the first woman to own a minority-run telecom installation company in the U.S. and the founder of Blissful Living 4 U, Rochel has built a legacy of empowering women to achieve success without sacrificing their well-being. In this episode, Rochel shares the power of the 3 C’s—Community, Connection, and Collaboration—and how these principles can help women scale their businesses, increase their impact, and create lives of fulfillment. She also dives into the game-changing role of Ayurveda in both business and health, explaining how understanding your unique energy type (Dosha) can lead to better decision-making, financial success, and a more balanced life. Show Notes – What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
This episode is for high-achieving women who want to scale their businesses, improve their well-being, and create sustainable success without stress and overwhelm. Resources & Links: Connect with Rochel Marie Lawson:
Take Action: Watch an Ayurveda-based business success masterclass, take Rochel’s Dosha Quiz, and start aligning your career and health for unstoppable growth. Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:
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| The Fight for Animal Rights: Cheryl Leahy’s Mission to Transform the Future of Farming | 28 Jan 2025 | 00:47:48 | |
In this eye-opening episode of Badass Women in Business, Cheryl Leahy, Executive Director of Animal Outlook, takes us deep into the world of animal advocacy. Cheryl shares how her organization is using undercover investigations, legal strategies, public outreach, and farmer transition programs to challenge factory farming and promote a kinder, more sustainable world for animals and humans alike. From the historical roots of factory farming to actionable ways listeners can make a difference, Cheryl delivers a compelling message about the power of awareness and community in driving systemic change. Show Notes: Key Topics Discussed:
Top Quotes from Cheryl:
Take Action Today:
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| Building Wealth with Purpose: Denise Sarkor’s Holistic Approach to Financial Planning | 23 Jan 2025 | 00:44:58 | |
In this episode of Badass Women in Business, Denise Sarkor, Liberian-American financial advisor and principal of Sarkor Financial Advisors, shares her inspiring journey from being a refugee to becoming a trailblazer in wealth management. Denise talks about the importance of holistic financial planning, overcoming limiting beliefs, and the power of community in achieving financial success. With her unique perspective, she empowers women entrepreneurs, career professionals, and community leaders to align their financial decisions with their life goals. Denise’s approach goes beyond the numbers—she’s a “doctor for people’s finances,” treating the root causes of financial challenges, not just the symptoms. Tune in for actionable insights, inspiring stories, and a fresh perspective on building wealth with purpose.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Mic Drop Moment: One Key Takeaway: Connect with Denise Sarkor:
If you’re ready to rethink your relationship with money and build weal Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:
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| Mastering Marketing and Life: Amber Gaige on Building Businesses with Purpose | 21 Jan 2025 | 00:43:59 | |
Amber Gaige, founder of Far Beyond Marketing and author of The Far Beyond Marketing Guidebook, joins us to share her entrepreneurial journey, marketing expertise, and insights on balancing work and family. From scaling a lead-generation company to building a second business centered on intentionality, Amber’s story is a testament to grit, faith, and the power of systems. Learn about her Four C’s of Marketing framework, the importance of servant leadership, and how to create a marketing strategy that aligns with your business goals. Show Notes: Introduction:
Key Insights from Amber:
Favorite Takeaways:
Connect with Amber:
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| From IT to Spas: Kimmy Powell’s Passion-Powered Journey | 16 Jan 2025 | 00:47:44 | |
Kimmy K. Powell is a powerhouse entrepreneur who’s built and scaled multiple seven-figure businesses across diverse industries, from IT and industrial flooring to luxury spas. In this episode, Kimmy shares her journey of reinvention, her philosophy of intentional living, and the lessons she’s learned through successes and failures. Tune in for her insights on pivoting for passion, building winning teams, and designing a life you love. Show Notes Introduction
Key Career Milestones
Lessons from the Pivot
Entrepreneurial Insights
Designing Your Life
What’s Next for Kimmy?
Connect with Kimmy
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| Heather Lee: Empowering Women Through Psychedelic-Assisted Healing and Retreats | 14 Jan 2025 | 00:39:40 | |
On this episode of Badass Women in Business, we’re diving into a world of healing, transformation, and empowerment with Heather Lee, founder of Medicine Woman Retreats. Heather is a trailblazer in the field of psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, one of Colorado’s first certified practitioners, and a seasoned mental health therapist with over 30 years of experience. Heather shares how her retreats, designed exclusively for women in midlife and beyond, are redefining how we process life transitions, trauma, and personal growth. From hosting psilocybin journeys that allow participants to reconnect with their intuition to creating luxury retreats that balance safety with personal exploration, Heather’s work is all about helping women unpack their emotional baggage and move through life lighter and more joyfully. Heather also opens up about her entrepreneurial journey, balancing the challenges of building a business as a single mom, and how she stays true to her mission. This conversation will leave you inspired to tap into your inner wisdom and reimagine what’s possible for yourself and your business.
Introduction
The Journey to Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy
What Makes Her Retreats Unique
Who Attends These Retreats?
Heather’s Entrepreneurial Journey
Key Insights from Heather
What’s Next for Heather?
Links to Connect with Heather
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| A Spoonful of Comfort: Marti Wymer on Turning Grief into a Purpose-Driven Business | 09 Jan 2025 | 00:42:53 | |
In this heartwarming episode of Badass Women in Business, we talk with Marti Wymer, founder and CEO of Spoonful of Comfort. What started as a personal response to grief has become a thriving business delivering handcrafted soup and care packages to nearly 3 million recipients nationwide. Marti shares her journey from a kitchen startup to leading a company known for its compassion, resilience, and impact. From navigating Shark Tank to scaling her business with love at its core, Marti’s story is a testament to the power of turning passion into purpose.
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| Scaling Culture and Leadership in a Remote World with Christine Watts | 07 Jan 2025 | 00:43:43 | |
In this episode of Badass Women in Business, Christine Watts, Chief of Staff at Ninety, shares her journey from being the first employee to helping scale a company to nearly 200 team members. Christine dives into how Ninety keeps its remote culture thriving through intentional rituals, core values, and leadership alignment. She discusses her personal growth, the challenges of wearing multiple hats, and the importance of creating clarity and connection within a fast-growing organization. Christine’s unique perspective offers insights on balancing work-life priorities, fostering team productivity, and empowering small businesses through effective planning tools. Show Notes:
Connect with Christine Watts:
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| Stronger Together: How Brittany Smith and Janki Patel Built a Scalable Pediatric Therapy Business from Scratch | 27 May 2025 | 00:44:23 | |
Brittany Smith and Janki Patel are the powerhouse duo behind Jump Ahead Pediatrics. What started as a shared dream between two burned-out therapists became a multi-state staffing agency serving schools with over 100 employees. In this episode, they walk us through how they bootstrapped their way from a $250 rental space to building a mission-driven business that puts people first. They talk openly about leadership challenges, lessons learned, and how they continue to grow while staying rooted in values and trust. This episode is a blueprint for anyone building something real with someone they trust. Episode Notes Meet Brittany and Janki Bootstrapped with Purpose Partnership and Leadership What’s Next Connect with the Founders and Jump Ahead Pediatrics Website: jumpaheadpediatrics.com Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:
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| Follow Your Heart in Business: Jackie Keller on Passion, Persistence, and Well-Being | 02 Jan 2025 | 00:43:12 | |
In this episode of Badass Women in Business, Jackie Keller, Founding Director of NutriFit LLC and a health and wellness expert, shares her inspiring journey of blending passion and purpose into a 37-year-long entrepreneurial career. Motivated by personal loss, Jackie has dedicated her life to helping others achieve better health and longevity through nutrition, wellness coaching, and sustainable practices. From running multiple businesses with her husband to emphasizing customer care and evolving her business model, Jackie offers invaluable insights into building a purpose-driven company while fostering genuine connections. Her advice for aspiring entrepreneurs? Follow your heart, evolve with your clients, and never stop looking for ways to make your passion a reality. ---
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Don’t miss this inspiring conversation with Jackie Keller, and stay tuned for more empowering stories on Badass Women in Business! Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:
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| Building Businesses with Purpose: Jen Vander Roest on Sustainability, Community, and Grit | 31 Dec 2024 | 00:38:37 | |
In this episode of Badass Women in Business, we sit down with Jen Vander Roest, an entrepreneur whose journey embodies sustainability, community preservation, and creative ambition. Jen shares how her background as a land-use planner and nonprofit professional shaped her transition into entrepreneurship, leading to the creation of two thriving ventures: The Flats at Front + Union, a boutique hotel celebrating Traverse City's rich history, and eelo, a sustainable textile brand committed to quality and intentionality. Jen opens up about the lessons she learned restoring a 126-year-old building, balancing creativity with strategy, and growing businesses alongside her family. She also provides valuable insights into creating products that resonate with consumers, staying true to your values, and the importance of taking risks—no matter where you are in life. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, Jen's story is a testament to grit, perseverance, and the power of building businesses with purpose. Introduction:
Key Themes:
Where to Find Jen: Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Badass Women in Business! Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:
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| Rewriting the Narrative: How Julie Castro Abrams is Shaping the Future of Women in Leadership and Investment | 26 Dec 2024 | 00:45:41 | |
On this episode of Badass Women in Business, hosts Aggie and Cristy sit down with Julie Castro Abrams, the CEO of How Women Lead and How Women Invest. Julie shares her journey of empowering women to break barriers in leadership and investment, the cultural biases that hold women back, and the tangible strategies to rewrite those narratives. Julie discusses the "middle essence" life stage, a transformative period where women shift from climbing career ladders to seeking meaningful impact. With a network of over 25,000 women, Julie sheds light on the importance of collective action to increase women’s representation on corporate boards and in venture capital. From the power of diverse leadership to practical advice for navigating investments, Julie’s insights resonate deeply with entrepreneurs, executives, and changemakers alike. Notes:
Connect with Julie Castro Abrams:
Tune in for actionable insig Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:
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| Breaking Barriers: Communication Strategies for Women Entrepreneurs with Ksenia Zaykova | 24 Dec 2024 | 00:42:58 | |
In this episode of Badass Women in Business, Aggie and Cristy sit down with Ksenia Zaykova, Founder of Node Communications and Chief Communications Officer at AngelsDeck Global Ventures. Ksenia shares her journey in helping women entrepreneurs navigate communication challenges and the biases they face in male-dominated spaces. She offers actionable advice on refining communication skills, building relationships with investors, and staying authentic while pitching and leading. Key Points: 1. Who Is Ksenia Zaykova?
2. The Gender Lens in Communication:
3. Mastering the Pitch:
4. Building Relationships in Business:
5. Ksenia’s Journey:
Takeaway: Whether you’re pitching investors or leading a team, being prepared, authentic, and focused on building real connections makes all the difference.
Discover more about Ksenia’s work in communication strategies, venture capital, and empowering women entrepreneurs. Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:
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| Following the Energy: How Miranda Hawkins Guides Women Through Life’s Biggest Transitions | 19 Dec 2024 | 00:36:16 | |
In this inspiring episode of Badass Women in Business, we sit down with Miranda K. Hawkins, President and Owner of Hawkins Gordon, an all-female estate planning law firm, and founder of Miranda K. Hawkins Coaching LLC. Miranda shares how her experience as a top-rated attorney and community leader led her to become a certified professional coach, guiding women professionals through life’s biggest transitions. Miranda opens up about overcoming fear, tackling imposter syndrome, and following “positive energy” to create clarity and growth in her life. From balancing her law practice, coaching business, and leadership roles to redefining prenuptial agreements as a tool for clarity—not conflict—Miranda offers actionable advice on building a life and career that align with your values. Whether you’re navigating career changes, starting a business, or simply striving to find balance, this episode will inspire you to trust your intuition, ask for support, and embrace the journey with confidence. 1. Meet Miranda K. Hawkins:
2. Estate Planning Essentials:
3. Attorney to Transition Coach:
4. Overcoming Fear & Self-Doubt:
5. Balancing it All:
6. Supporting Women:
7. Key Takeaways:
Connect with Miranda Hawkins:
Final Thought: Miranda Hawkins reminds us that life’s biggest transitions—whether personal or professional—are opportunities for growth. By following your intuition, trusting your energy, and Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:
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| Building Community and Embracing Authenticity: The Modern Prairie Story | 17 Dec 2024 | 00:44:08 | |
In this extraordinary episode of Badass Women in Business, Aggie and Cristy sit down with Melissa Gilbert and Nicole Haase, the visionary co-founders of Modern Prairie. What started as a business idea to support women in their "middle essence" has evolved into a thriving community focused on connection, empowerment, and meaningful storytelling. Melissa and Nicole share the journey of building Modern Prairie, the challenges of creating a community-first brand, and their commitment to serving women through authenticity, vulnerability, and collaboration. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a seasoned professional, or someone seeking inspiration, this conversation will leave you feeling empowered to embrace imperfection and lean into your passions. Introduction
Key Topics Discussed
Quotes to Remember
Why You Should Listen Links to Connect Closing Thoughts Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:
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| Building Legacy and Trust: The Women Behind MYB Inc. | 12 Dec 2024 | 00:43:10 | |
In this inspiring episode of Badass Women in Business, we sit down with the powerhouse team at MYB Inc., a family-owned, woman-led business dedicated to empowering employers with informed hiring decisions. Christina Caruso, Shelby Caruso, and Molly Scott share the story of their company’s evolution, rooted in a legacy of trust and innovation started by their mother, Karen Caruso. They discuss the unique dynamics of running a family business, balancing personal and professional lives, and their mission to provide exceptional customer service in an increasingly automated world. From overcoming sexism in the workplace to embracing their roles as leaders and mothers, this episode is packed with laughter, insights, and actionable advice for entrepreneurs and leaders alike. Show Notes:
Links: Don’t miss this empowering episode about legacy, leadership, and family in business—stay badass! Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:
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| Cracking the Code: Financial Clarity with Geneve Huxley, CPA | 10 Dec 2024 | 00:48:08 | |
On this episode of Badass Women in Business, we’re joined by Geneve Huxley, CPA, also known as the “accountant with a personality.” With over 20 years of expertise as a licensed CPA and fractional CFO, Geneve brings humor and clarity to the often-intimidating world of business finance. From demystifying cash vs. accrual accounting to explaining why every entrepreneur needs a strong balance sheet, Geneve delivers actionable advice to help business owners unlock financial insights and prepare for sustainable growth. Whether you’re struggling with cash flow, planning your next big move, or just want to laugh while learning about finance, this episode is for you. Show Notes:
Join us for this insightful and entertaining episode where finance meets fun. Geneve’s expertise, humor, and down-to-earth advice are the perfect mix to help you take control of your business finances! Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:
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| Disrupting Divorce: Tia Zavaras on Evolved Law and Compassionate Family Solutions | 05 Dec 2024 | 00:41:07 | |
This week on Badass Women in Business, Aggie and Cristy sit down with Tia Zavaras, the powerhouse behind Evolved Law. Tia’s shaking up the family law industry by offering a more compassionate, streamlined approach to divorce. From her work as a litigator to becoming a coach and mediator, Tia shares how she’s helping clients avoid costly legal battles, prioritize emotional well-being, and reach better outcomes—faster. Tia also talks about Colorado’s game-changing Licensed Legal Paraprofessional (LLP) program, which makes affordable, high-quality legal help accessible to more people. If you’ve ever wondered how family law could evolve into something kinder and more practical, this episode is for you. Show Notes
Connect with Tia and Evolved Law
Loved this episode? Subscribe, rate, and leave us a review. Let’s keep celebrating badass women changing the game. Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:
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| Turning LinkedIn Into a Revenue Engine: Natasha Walstra’s High-Integrity Social Selling Blueprint | 03 Dec 2024 | 00:47:16 | |
On this episode of Badass Women in Business, Aggie and Cristy chat with Natasha Walstra, founder of NearPoint Strategies, about her transformative approach to social selling on LinkedIn. Natasha shares how she helps sales teams and leaders build authentic relationships, drive ROI, and grow sustainably—all in under an hour a day. From her start as a reluctant SDR to leading her own business, Natasha reveals her Nearbound strategy, leveraging networks and referrals for real results. She also discusses her role as Executive Director of the Inner Mountain Foundation and host of The Climb podcast. Tune in for actionable insights to elevate your LinkedIn game. Show Notes
Connect with Natasha Walstra
Stay Connected Loved this episode? Be sure to subscribe, rate, and review Badass Women in Business on your favorite streaming platform. Stay badass and join us next ti Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:
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| Leadership Without Apology: How Christiana Marouchos and Becky Tasker Are Building and Leading in Tech | 20 May 2025 | 00:42:21 | |
Christiana Marouchos and Becky Tasker are VPs at StackAdapt. Christiana leads brand and communications. Becky leads growth marketing. Together, they’ve helped shape the company’s marketing strategy, scale its team, and build a culture rooted in clarity, accountability, and equity. In this episode, they talk about what it means to lead inside a fast-moving tech company. Christiana shares how storytelling has become the core of her approach to marketing. Becky breaks down how data and systems thinking helped her step into leadership. They both talk about imposter syndrome, learning to trust your voice, and what they’ve learned about building and managing teams that deliver. This is a conversation about doing the work, leading with intention, and staying grounded when things move fast. Show Notes Guests
Topics covered
Key Takeaways
Contact Christiana Marouchos Becky Tasker Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:
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| Ego, Insecurity, and Career Reinvention: Leadership Lessons from Erika Ayers Badan | 28 Nov 2024 | 00:43:59 | |
In this episode of Badass Women in Business, Aggie and Cristy sit down with Erika Ayers Badan, former CEO of Barstool Sports and current CEO of Food52, to discuss the art of balancing ego and insecurity in leadership, navigating the complexities of career transitions, and the power of showing up authentically. Erika shares candid insights from her journey transforming Barstool into a media powerhouse, why she believes failure is a gift, and how to lean into discomfort to find career fulfillment. Whether you’re running a startup, thriving in corporate, or planning your next big move, Erika’s no-nonsense approach will inspire you to own your career with confidence and grace. Show Notes:
Don’t miss this honest and inspiring conversation about leadership, resilience, and the journey to finding career happiness. Follow, review, and share! Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:
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| Visibility Is Power: Owning Your Voice with Roshanda Pratt | 26 Nov 2024 | 00:49:29 | |
In this episode of Badass Women in Business, we dive into the transformative journey of Roshanda Pratt, a visibility strategist, author, and broadcast journalist with over 20 years of experience. Known for her dynamic presence and expertise, Roshanda shares her journey from behind the camera as a television news producer to being a digital pioneer and advocate for empowering women to embrace visibility. She explains the fundamentals of being seen, heard, and paid while breaking free from self-doubt and undervaluing your services. Roshanda’s wisdom and energy will leave you inspired to own your voice, amplify your impact, and unapologetically take up space in the world. Show Notes: Introduction:
Connect with Roshanda Pratt:
Books by Roshanda Pratt: Stay tuned for more conversations with women redefining what it means to be a badass in business. Don’t forget to rate, review, and subscribe to the podcast. Stay badass! Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:
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| Redefining Leadership: Courage, Confidence, and Taking the Leap with Reagan Cannon | 21 Nov 2024 | 00:44:02 | |
Reagan Cannon shares her transition from leading Fortune 15 companies like Amazon to starting her own business as a leadership speaker and coach. She opens up about the challenges of leaving corporate security, how relational courage helps women break through barriers, and why taking calculated risks is essential for growth. Reagan offers powerful insights into redefining identity, building confidence through action, and creating leadership cultures that inspire innovation and success. This episode is packed with practical advice for women ready to take bold steps in their careers or entrepreneurial journeys. Show Notes: Introduction: Reagan Cannon, leadership expert, coach, and former Amazon executive, shares her inspiring journey and actionable lessons for women in business. Corporate Career:
Relational Courage:
Confidence vs. Courage:
Calculated Risk:
Leadership Lessons:
Identity Shift:
Practical Advice:
Connect with Reagan Cannon: Call to Action: Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:
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| From IT to Plant-Based Pioneer: Veena Birajadar’s Journey with Pure Vegan Café | 19 Nov 2024 | 00:42:00 | |
In this episode of Badass Women in Business, we’re joined by Veena Birajadar, founder of Pure Vegan Café, a plant-based haven that brings healthy, delicious vegan dishes to North Carolina. Veena shares her story of leaving a career in IT to pursue her passion for plant-based eating. From her family’s journey with cancer treatment to her mission to offer accessible vegan food, Veena’s journey is full of inspiring insights about resilience, community, and the power of a plant-based diet. Tune in as we explore her journey from corporate life to restaurant ownership, the challenges she faced, and her commitment to making plant-based food approachable for everyone.
Connect with Pure Vegan Café: Website | Facebook | TikTok | Instagram Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:
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| Embracing Change, Resilience, and Legacy with Melva LaJoy LeGrand | 14 Nov 2024 | 00:37:04 | |
In this episode, Melva LaJoy LeGrand, founder of LaJoy Plans, shares her deeply personal story of resilience, legacy, and self-discovery. Melva opens up about her journey from academia to event planning, her challenges with self-identity, and the profound impact of her parents on her life’s path. She dives into her commitment to advocating for women of color in business, the empowering role of mentorship, and her inspiring message to live authentically. Melva’s reflections encourage us to value the power of our personal stories and to push beyond the traditional boundaries set by society. Show Notes
Connect with Melva:
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| Redefining Women’s Health: Valentina Milanova on Innovation, Leadership, and Closing the Gender Gap in Gynecological Care | 12 Nov 2024 | 00:39:12 | |
In this episode of Badass Women in Business, hosts Aggie and Cristy are joined by Valentina Milanova, founder and CEO of Daye. Valentina shares her journey from studying law and business to pioneering innovation in gynecological health. She discusses the challenges women face in securing venture funding, especially in healthcare, and highlights Daye's groundbreaking work in developing CBD tampons and diagnostic products that support women's health in accessible and effective ways. Valentina’s candid discussion of the obstacles in women’s health innovation, along with her inspiring approach to team management and social impact, offers a unique look into the femtech space and the importance of creating products that genuinely support women's well-being.
Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:
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| Empowering Homeownership: A New Path to Real Estate Investment with Shannon Diesch of Quarter | 07 Nov 2024 | 00:44:37 | |
Episode Summary In this episode of the Badass Women in Business podcast, we talk with Shannon Diesch, CEO and co-founder of Quarter, a pioneering platform that redefines real estate investment through equity-based co-ownership and tokenization. Shannon discusses Quarter's mission to make homeownership accessible to Millennials, Gen Z, and financially underserved communities. By allowing investments in owner-occupied real estate, Quarter provides affordable housing options and financial stability, paving the way for a fresh approach to property ownership. Shannon shares her journey as a young entrepreneur, the challenges of leading a mission-driven company, and her strategies to balance investor interests with housing affordability. She also highlights how Quarter enables investors to engage in real estate with minimal management responsibilities, receiving returns without the upkeep concerns typical in property investments. Show Notes
Connect with Shannon and Quarter
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| Pivot and Triage: Diana Khan on Building Seven Integrated Businesses and Defining Success on Her Own Terms | 05 Nov 2024 | 00:49:37 | |
Episode Summary: In this episode, Badass Women in Business welcomes Diana Khan, a Maryland-based attorney and entrepreneur who leads seven interconnected businesses, including DK Law Group. Diana talks with Aggie and Cristy about managing multiple roles with efficiency and a no-nonsense approach. She breaks down her strategy of “pivot and triage”—her process for prioritizing and adapting daily. Diana also shares her take on unconventional hiring practices, finding the right team fit by focusing on strengths over traditional job titles. Reflecting on past partnerships, Diana outlines what she's learned about setting boundaries and clear expectations to make collaborations sustainable. Finally, she gives advice on staying focused and motivated through self-assessment and learning to let go of expectations that don’t align with personal values. Show Notes:
Where to Connect with Diana: Keep up with more content from Aggie and Cristy here:
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