What happens when you follow the spark, even if you don’t know where it will lead? In this episode, Kara talks with Christina Minutillo, an Italian-American host, author, and podcaster whose self-published cookbook launched a whole new chapter in her life. They talk about how Christina went from corporate fashion to building her own brand rooted in joy, creativity, and community. You’ll hear how her cookbook came to life during COVID, how it helped her discover her voice, and how it opened the door to her podcast "What Lights Us Up," where she now highlights stories of personal development and creativity.

Chapters:

00:00 Creating space for joy and creativity

01:20 A cookbook born from community and tradition

03:10 Building chosen family through hosting

05:45 Turning a dinner party into a published book

08:00 Teaching herself book design, production, and launch

11:25 The evolution of a creative project

13:00 How making the book changed her mindset and energy

15:00 Launching "What Lights Us Up" podcast

17:00 Why more people need to hear stories of starting

19:00 Following purpose, even if you don’t know the end goal

21:00 Growing up an only child in an entrepreneurial family

23:30 Listening to your inner voice and acting on it

25:00 From fear of visibility to hosting with confidence

27:00 Redefining what powerful means

29:15 Finding your purpose by noticing what lights you up

31:00 Daily routines that support clarity and creativity

34:00 Choosing connection, presence, and community

The Powerful Ladies podcast, hosted by business coach and strategist Kara Duffy features candid conversations with entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, chefs, writers, scientists, and more. Every Wednesday, new episodes explore what it means to lead with purpose, create with intention, and define success on your own terms.

Whether you're growing a business, changing careers, or asking bigger questions, these stories remind you: you're not alone, and you're more powerful than you think.

Explore more at thepowerfulladies.com and karaduffy.com.

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