This week on The City Girl Empower Hour, we welcome journalist, editor, podcast host, retail guru, and entrepreneur Allison Kaplan, VP of content at MSP Communications and Editor-in-Chief of Twin Cities Business AND soon to be Director of Innovation and Engagement at The Star Tribune.

We discuss:

• The evolution of journalism in the digital age

• Why local media still matters in a global world

• Building Mother Of—a new venture supporting modern moms

• The art of interviewing and storytelling through "By All Means"

• How to juggle ambition, family, and authenticity in a high-profile career

• Navigating imposter syndrome and defining your own success

If you've ever wondered what it looks like to evolve your career with intention and impact—this one's for you.

Follow Allison: Instagram & Twitter: @alishops LinkedIn: Allison Kaplan Business Ventures: @motherof.co, @tcbmag

Connect with Us: 👉 Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review! 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. 💬 @citygirlcoffee @citygirlempowerhour @thumbscookies @thelakeandco

Join the conversation using #EmpowerHourPodcast #WomenInMedia #MotherOfMovement

☕✨ Alyza's Famous Morning Coffee Protein Smoothie

Fuel your day with the perfect blend of caffeine + protein! Creamy, energizing, and packed with flavor—this smoothie is basically breakfast and coffee in one delicious sip.

🛒 Ingredients

• 2–3 espresso shots of your favorite City Girl Coffee ☕ (If you don't have Espresso, Cold Brew Concentrate works as a great addition, or a regular cup of coffee will do too!)

• 2 scoops protein powder (I love Orgain Organic Vanilla)

• 1 frozen banana (fresh works too, but frozen = extra creamy!) 🍌

• ½ cup ice ❄️

• 2 scoops PB2 Fit peanut butter powder 🥜

Optional Protein Boost:

• ½ cup non-fat Greek yogurt or

• 1 cup liquid egg whites (pasteurized)

🌀 Directions

1. Brew your City Girl Coffee and let it cool slightly.

2. Add all ingredients to a blender.

3. Blend until smooth, creamy, and irresistible.

4. Pour into your favorite glass or tumbler.

5. Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon, cacao nibs, or crushed espresso beans for barista vibes.

💡 Pro Tip: For a mocha twist, use chocolate protein powder instead of vanilla.