Powerful Women Rising - A Business Podcast for Female Entrepreneurs – Details, episodes & analysis

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Being your full, unapologetic self isn’t a liability - it’s a strategy. 

What if everything you’ve been taught about how to be “professional” is actually holding you back?

In this episode, attorney Lauren Varner shares how she broke free from the outdated stereotypes that often demand women dim their light in order to be taken seriously. 

From ponytails and pantyhose to sexy outfits and bold billboards, Lauren’s evolution is a masterclass in what happens when you stop trying to fit in - and start leading with your whole, authentic self.

Together, we unpack what it really means to be professional, why embracing your femininity gives you an advantage in business, and how to deal with the people who just don't get it.

In this episode, we cover:

• How traditional “professionalism” punishes self-expression - especially for women
• What happens when you stop trying to be palatable and allow yourself to be powerful
• The emotional toll of shrinking yourself to make other people more comfortable
• How to handle criticism from mentors, colleagues, or the internet with grace (and fire)
• How typically feminine traits like empathy, vulnerability, and style can be your business superpowers

If you’ve ever been told to tone it down, cover it up, or be less “you” in order to get ahead - this conversation will light a fire in you.

Links & References:

• Join us at our next PWR Virtual Speed Networking Event!
• For even deeper connections, check out the Powerful Women Rising Community!
• Learn more about Varner Faddis Elite Legal
• Follow Lauren and Varner Faddis Elite Legal on Instagram

Support the show

Connect with Your Host!

Melissa Snow is a Business Relationship Strategist dedicated to empowering women in entrepreneurship. She founded the Powerful Women Rising Community, which provides female business owners with essential support and resources for business growth.

Melissa's other mission is to revolutionize networking, promoting authenticity and genuine connections over sleazy sales tactics. She runs an incredible monthly Virtual Speed Networking Event which you can attend once at no cost using the code FIRSTTIME

She lives in Colorado Springs with two girl dogs, two boy cats and any number of foster kittens. She loves iced coffee, Taylor Swift, and Threads.

Send us a text

It’s not about going viral. It’s about going deeper.

In this powerful episode, I’m joined by my new business bestie, Alex Sanfilippo, founder of PodMatch - a platform that connects podcast hosts and guests, to talk about what it really takes to build a podcast that grows your business and your influence - without burning out or giving up.

Alex shares the truth that so many of us have learned the hard way - the best podcasts aren’t always the ones with the most downloads. They’re the ones that create real connection with the right people.

We also discuss:

• The most important questions to ask before starting a podcast
• The truth about vanity metrics - and how to grow without "going viral"
• How podcast hosts can create unique, one-on-one relationships with listeners that feel surprisingly personal despite being one-sided.
• How to simplify your workflow using the "automate, delegate, eliminate" rule

Whether you’re just starting out or feeling overwhelmed by all the “shoulds,” this conversation will help you simplify your approach and stay focused on what actually matters.

Links & References:

• Join us at our next PWR Virtual Speed Networking Event!
• For even deeper connections, check out the Powerful Women Rising Community!
• Whether you are a podcast guest/host or an aspiring guest/host, https://podmatch.com/free will give you some quick ideas to help you grow and improve in your podcasting efforts!
• Join PodMatch to find guests for your show or to find shows to be a guest on!  It's an incredible resource!

Support the show

Connect with Your Host!

Melissa Snow is a Business Relationship Strategist dedicated to empowering women in entrepreneurship. She founded the Powerful Women Rising Community, which provides female business owners with essential support and resources for business growth.

Melissa's other mission is to revolutionize networking, promoting authenticity and genuine connections over sleazy sales tactics. She runs an incredible monthly Virtual Speed Networking Event which you can attend once at no cost using the code FIRSTTIME

She lives in Colorado Springs with two girl dogs, two boy cats and any number of foster kittens. She loves iced coffee, Taylor Swift, and Threads.

Send us a text

What’s the biggest difference between entrepreneurs who struggle and those who thrive? 

In the second episode of the Powerful Women Rising Impact Award winners series, 2024 Coach of the Year Jess Thompson and 2024 Business Support Person of the Year Jenn Hartt explain that success isn't just about having the right strategies - it’s about having the right support.

We discuss the power of human guidance in business and how coaching, strategy, and execution work together to turn big ideas into real success. 

Jess helps entrepreneurs cut through overwhelm and build thriving businesses while Jenn brings their visions to life through creative strategy. Together, they’re proof that no one builds a successful business alone.

Listen and Learn:

✅ Why AI tools can’t replace real human insight in business strategy
✅ Why community and mentorship are essential for overcoming challenges
✅ The surprising freedom that comes from asking for help
✅ The mindset shift that separates struggling entrepreneurs from thriving ones

These two incredible women remind us that to build a business and a life that truly works for you, having the right support system is essential.

This episode is part of the 2024 PWR Impact Awards Winner Series, featuring women entrepreneurs who are redefining success and impacting the lives of others. Want more inspiration and real-world strategies to make an impact with your business? Subscribe and don’t miss the next episode in this powerful series!

Links & References:

• Join us at our next PWR Virtual Speed Networking Event!
• For even deeper connections, check out the Powerful Women Rising Community!

Learn more about Jenn Hartt:

• • www.jennsway.com
  • www.instagram.com/lifejennsway
  • https://www.linkedin.com/in/jwayboer/

Learn more about Jess Thompson:

• https://completesmallbizacademy.com/
• https://completesmallbizacademy.com/products/the-shatter-summit-female-entrepreneurs-breaking-barriers
• https://www.instagram.com/completesmallbizacademy/

Support the show

Connect with Your Host!

Melissa Snow is a Business Relationship Strategist dedicated to empowering women in entrepreneurship. She founded the Powerful Women Rising Community, which provides female business owners with essential support and resources for business growth.

Melissa's other mission is to revolutionize networking, promoting authenticity and genuine connections over sleazy sales tactics. She runs an incredible monthly Virtual Speed Networking Event which you can attend once at no cost using the code FIRSTTIME

She lives in Colorado Springs with two girl dogs, two boy cats and any number of foster kittens. She loves iced coffee, Taylor Swift, and Threads.

Send us a text

In this episode, TedX Speaker Coach and Founder of Business to Movement Consulting, Alexandria Agresta, shares the power of speaking your message on stage. 

We dig into how fear and "Imposter Syndrome" typically hold women back and how you can help so many people make a positive change in their lives just by sharing your unique perspective and voice with the world!

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For more information about joining the Powerful Women Rising Community: www.powerfulwomenrising.com/joinpwrc

Connect with Powerful Women Rising on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/powerfulwomenrising

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Episode Highlights:

(03:56) Discover the message you want to be known for!

(08:52) Your message is just as important and impactful and anyone else's!

(10:42) It is vital for business owners to share their message - your message is the core of your business and what sets you apart from others.

(16:22) How can speaking on stage benefit your business? 

(21:11) When the stage truly feels like home.

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To learn more about Alexandria Agresta:  www.alexandriaagresta.com

To learn more about how she works with speakers:  www.madeforthestage.co

Support the show

Connect with Your Host!

Melissa Snow is a Business Relationship Strategist dedicated to empowering women in entrepreneurship. She founded the Powerful Women Rising Community, which provides female business owners with essential support and resources for business growth.

Melissa's other mission is to revolutionize networking, promoting authenticity and genuine connections over sleazy sales tactics. She runs an incredible monthly Virtual Speed Networking Event which you can attend once at no cost using the code FIRSTTIME

She lives in Colorado Springs with two girl dogs, two boy cats and any number of foster kittens. She loves iced coffee, Taylor Swift, and Threads.

Send us a text

What does being authentic actually mean and why does it matter when it comes to growing a successful business?

In this episode, Kamie Lehmann, host of "She's Invincible" podcast, shares her own personal story of how authenticty has impacted her life and business.  She also digs into why showing up as your "true self" can feel so scary and shares actionable tips to help you begin to show up more in your own business and life.

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For more information about joining the Powerful Women Rising Community:
www.powerfulwomenrising.com/joinpwrc

Follow Powerful Women Rising on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/powerfulwomenrising

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Episode Highlights:

(02:06) From having a baby at 16, going to corporate America, getting into podcasting, and eventually starting a podcasting school!

(04:29) The superpower of authenticity. It makes you who you are!

(09:14) Why is authenticity hard for people, especially women? It’s the “not enough” syndrome’s fault!

(12:54) The difference between authenticity and oversharing. It all boils down to your intentions.

(15:28) Steps you can take to improve your relationship with authenticity. Stop holding yourself back!

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To connect with Kamie Lehmann: https://www.kamielehmann.com/

Support the show

Connect with Your Host!

Melissa Snow is a Business Relationship Strategist dedicated to empowering women in entrepreneurship. She founded the Powerful Women Rising Community, which provides female business owners with essential support and resources for business growth.

Melissa's other mission is to revolutionize networking, promoting authenticity and genuine connections over sleazy sales tactics. She runs an incredible monthly Virtual Speed Networking Event which you can attend once at no cost using the code FIRSTTIME

She lives in Colorado Springs with two girl dogs, two boy cats and any number of foster kittens. She loves iced coffee, Taylor Swift, and Threads.

Send us a text

If you’re finding yourself burned out, irritated, frustrated or drained, your power container is probably running on empty.

In this episode, Jenna Banks, Author of "I Love Me More" shares more about what drains your power container (and how to avoid this!) and what fills it up!  She also shares why this is SO important in business, and in life!

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For more information about joining the Powerful Women Rising Community:www.powerfulwomenrising.com/joinpwrc

Connect with Powerful Women Rising on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/powerfulwomenrising

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Episode Highlights:

(02:38) The biggest lesson Jenna’s learned since her entrepreneurial experience started back in the ’90s - Own your value and worth!

(06:56) What is a power container? 

(09:36) The things that take your power away and how to avoid letting others drain your power.

(19:55) The best way to fill your power container = self-care. 

(25:21) Pat yourself on the back and celebrate wins, big or small. Your wins aren’t “just a fluke”! Watch how you talk to yourself.

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To connect with Jenna Banks and sign up for her free "Love Notes to Myself": https://jenna-banks.com/

Support the show

Connect with Your Host!

Melissa Snow is a Business Relationship Strategist dedicated to empowering women in entrepreneurship. She founded the Powerful Women Rising Community, which provides female business owners with essential support and resources for business growth.

Melissa's other mission is to revolutionize networking, promoting authenticity and genuine connections over sleazy sales tactics. She runs an incredible monthly Virtual Speed Networking Event which you can attend once at no cost using the code FIRSTTIME

She lives in Colorado Springs with two girl dogs, two boy cats and any number of foster kittens. She loves iced coffee, Taylor Swift, and Threads.

Send us a text

Despite the growing awareness of the importance of self-care, many people still view it as a non-essential luxury.   But self-care is much more than getting a massage or a new hairstyle!

In this episode, Transformational Life Coach Jasmine Rice explains why it's crucial to recognize that self-care is not a luxury, but a necessity, and why it is essential to growing and sustaining a successful business. 

If you've been feeling discouraged, run down or burned out lately, this episode is for you!

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For more information about joining the Powerful Women Rising Community: www.powerfulwomenrising.com/joinpwrc

Follow Powerful Women Rising on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/powerfulwomenrising

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Episode Highlights:

 (03:41) Self-care is not just about pampering yourself; it involves physical, emotional, and mental health - ensuring you can function at your best! 

(06:39) Not caring for yourself can negatively impact relationships and business. Burnout can happen to anyone!

(10:47) Self-care translates to the passion you put into your business. It's not weird to set up reminders to practice self-care (even a quick dance session with your dog!) 

(16:13) Honoring yourself can be a game-changer in your life. You send a powerful message to yourself and the world around you.

(17:22) Jasmine's easy secret hack to begin prioritizing self-care and improving your relationship with yourself. 

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To connect with Jasmine Rice:

• Website: https://goodthingsaregonnacome.com/
• Instagram: https://www.facebook.com/goodthingsaregonnacome
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/goodthingsaregonnacome
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasmin-rice-co/

Support the show

Connect with Your Host!

Melissa Snow is a Business Relationship Strategist dedicated to empowering women in entrepreneurship. She founded the Powerful Women Rising Community, which provides female business owners with essential support and resources for business growth.

Melissa's other mission is to revolutionize networking, promoting authenticity and genuine connections over sleazy sales tactics. She runs an incredible monthly Virtual Speed Networking Event which you can attend once at no cost using the code FIRSTTIME

She lives in Colorado Springs with two girl dogs, two boy cats and any number of foster kittens. She loves iced coffee, Taylor Swift, and Threads.

Send us a text

If you're looking to establish yourself as an expert, expand your network, and make important business connections, this episode is for you!  

In this episode, LinkedIn expert Miranda VonFricken shares the importance of building strong relationships with LinkedIn and how to use it as a tool for achieving your business goals.

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For more information about joining the Powerful Women Rising Community:
www.powerfulwomenrising.com/joinpwrc

To register for the next Women Who Network Virtual Speed Networking Event:
https://www.instagram.com/powerfulwomenrising

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Episode Highlights:

(03:13) LinkedIn is a community! It's not just a visibility strategy. 

(08:15) Is LinkedIn the right platform for you and your business? 

(10:46) The best practices for creating and maintaining a compelling LinkedIn profile. 

(16:05)  Engage in meaningful conversations is the key to creating connections.

(25:00) How authenticity can help you stand out from others on LinkedIn. 

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To Connect with Miranda VonFricken:

• Website: https://mirandavonfricken.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/miranda.vonfricken/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mirandavonfricken/

Support the show

Connect with Your Host!

Melissa Snow is a Business Relationship Strategist dedicated to empowering women in entrepreneurship. She founded the Powerful Women Rising Community, which provides female business owners with essential support and resources for business growth.

Melissa's other mission is to revolutionize networking, promoting authenticity and genuine connections over sleazy sales tactics. She runs an incredible monthly Virtual Speed Networking Event which you can attend once at no cost using the code FIRSTTIME

She lives in Colorado Springs with two girl dogs, two boy cats and any number of foster kittens. She loves iced coffee, Taylor Swift, and Threads.

Send us a text

 A strong email list is essential to building and maintaining a successful business, but it's only worthwhile if you know the best strategies for using it!

In this episode, Tai Goodwin, CEO of That Marketing Team, discusses how to maximize your business potential with email marketing.

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For more information about joining the Powerful Women Rising Community:
www.powerfulwomenrising.com/joinpwrc

Connect with Powerful Women Rising on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/powerfulwomenrising

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Episode Highlights:

 (01:30) How did email marketing save Tai's business? Email marketing might be more complex than you think!
(06:06) Reasons why many people have a love-hate relationship with email marketing.
(08:29) How to see email marketing as a powerful tool for connection rather than a superficial sales tactic.
(14:28) Unleashing the secrets of email marketing.
(17:38) Actionable strategies to build relationships with the people on your email list.
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To connect with Tai Goodwin:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taigoodwin/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taigoodwin/
• Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thatmarketingteam

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Support the show

Connect with Your Host!

Melissa Snow is a Business Relationship Strategist dedicated to empowering women in entrepreneurship. She founded the Powerful Women Rising Community, which provides female business owners with essential support and resources for business growth.

Melissa's other mission is to revolutionize networking, promoting authenticity and genuine connections over sleazy sales tactics. She runs an incredible monthly Virtual Speed Networking Event which you can attend once at no cost using the code FIRSTTIME

She lives in Colorado Springs with two girl dogs, two boy cats and any number of foster kittens. She loves iced coffee, Taylor Swift, and Threads.

Send us a text

It's easy to get caught up in the hustle and grind of entrepreneurship and forget about taking care of yourself.

In this episode, Holistic Fitness Coach & Personal Trainer Jessie Lockhart explains how your health directly correlates to your success in life and business. 

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For more information about joining the Powerful Women Rising Community: www.powerfulwomenrising.com/joinpwrc

Connect With Powerful Women Rising on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/powerfulwomenrising

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Episode Highlights:

(03:03) How you take care of our health leads to how you perform in your business! 

(07:24) Why most women, particularly those in business, prioritize their career/business success more than their health?

(09:23) The value of putting more attention on your health.

(16:25) Understanding the concept of holistic fitness.

(20:58) Learn some essential steps to prioritize your health and well-being! 

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Follow Jessie Lockhart on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrsjessielockhart/

Support the show

Connect with Your Host!

Melissa Snow is a Business Relationship Strategist dedicated to empowering women in entrepreneurship. She founded the Powerful Women Rising Community, which provides female business owners with essential support and resources for business growth.

Melissa's other mission is to revolutionize networking, promoting authenticity and genuine connections over sleazy sales tactics. She runs an incredible monthly Virtual Speed Networking Event which you can attend once at no cost using the code FIRSTTIME

She lives in Colorado Springs with two girl dogs, two boy cats and any number of foster kittens. She loves iced coffee, Taylor Swift, and Threads.