In this episode, Lorie Jones sits down with Stefanie Francis, founder and CEO of Hootology, to uncover the twists and turns of her inspiring career. From her beginnings as a Division I volleyball player to unexpectedly launching her own tech-enabled market research firm, Stefanie shares how embracing uncertainty and following her intuition led her to build the company she had always hoped to work for.

Stefanie offers candid reflections on leaving comfort zones, navigating challenges as a woman leader, and her commitment to inner growth through therapy and self-discovery.

Whether you're forging your own path or still figuring out the next step, Stefanie Francis's fearless wisdom will spark your curiosity and encourage you to embrace every possibility along your journey.

Show Highlights:

• Finding success in the present on an evolving career path. [07:22]

• A journey to founding the company you couldn't find to work at. [08:15]

• What does modernized market research look like? [12:31]

• The role of therapy as a transformative personal investment. [15:49]

• Why advice isn't absolute and needs your unique filter. [18:12]

• Hollow personal branding vs. "warning" signals of authenticity. [21:14]

• The value of understanding your own psychology of money. [29:39]

• Is fear a necessary part of growth? [33:32]

• Exposure to locker room talk as masculine-presenting women. [35:45]

• Embracing the inner voice, fear, and quiet as young women. [39:14]

Connect with Stefanie Francis on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/stefaniefrancis/.

You can also reach out to Stefanie via email at [email protected] .

If you enjoyed this episode, please go to Apple Podcasts and leave a review!

For more information about Lorie Jones, go to https://fearlessfinancialadvisors.com/fearless-females.

In today's conversation, Lori Jones sits down with Lauren Kwedar Cockerell, president of Kwedar & Co., who shares her inspiring journey from book-loving child to successful entrepreneur.

Listen in as Lauren recounts how being laid off at eight months pregnant became the catalyst for launching her own business—and how embracing lifelong learning and valuing her own worth transformed her professional path. You'll also hear candid advice on negotiating salaries, trusting your intuition, scaling teams with heart, and the importance of taking time to rest and rejuvenate.

This episode is packed with real stories, practical lessons, and encouragement for any woman aiming to carve her own fearless trail in the business world.

Show Highlights:

• Do great PR careers evolve from a childhood love of stories? [08:26]

• How being laid off can be an entrepreneurial springboard. [12:13]

• The power of coaching to help start and sustain a business. [16:00]

• The certification and accelerator that transformed Lauren's path. [17:45]

• Are you undercharging without negotiating first offers? [21:44]

• Pitfalls of boosting headcount without strategy during rapid growth. [25:58]

• The importance of delegating financial administration. [30:44]

• Why "hire slow, fire fast" is true—better done with humanity. [35:36]

• Fostering rest and adventure beyond work as an employer. [41:38]

• AI and entry-level job challenges vs. unlocking unique value. [43:32]

Connect with Lauren Kwedar Cockerell on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenkwedar/ or via email at [email protected].

You can also find Lauren's work or contact her at https://www.kwedarco.com/.

If you enjoyed this episode, please go to Apple Podcasts and leave a review!

For more information about Lorie Jones, go to https://fearlessfinancialadvisors.com/fearless-females.

This week, Lorie Jones welcomes powerhouse financial advisor Cary Carbonaro, whose remarkable path proves success rarely follows a straight line. From her early days in private banking to weathering professional pivots and personal upheaval, Cary stands out as a relentless force finding opportunity through adversity.

She opens up about rewriting the rules in a male-dominated industry and why women don't have to fit neatly into any one box—advisor, author, marketer, or speaker. You will find fresh perspectives in her ironclad commitment to self-belief and her strategic take on building a career where confidence is non-negotiable.

Don't miss Cary's practical advice for owning your ambition, championing your credentials, and celebrating milestones along the way. This is a conversation designed to energize growth-minded women ready to shape their own legacy.

Show Highlights:

• A nonlinear journey in finance to a No.4 national ranking. [04:34]

• Betting on your talent over job security at a prestigious firm. [08:34]

• Why you should get Cary's book Women and Wealth. [10:47]

• Is occupying a single career box important to be successful? [12:23]

• The high-return investment of earning CFP certification. [13:37]

• Risks of unqualified people vetting your separation agreement. [17:36]

• The importance of listening to good parental and CFP advice. [21:47]

• Explicit and subtle discrimination against women in finance. [27:59]

• Two non-negotiables for women entering male-dominated fields. [31:34]

• Practical advice for young women who want to become CFPs. [35:26]

To contact Cary Carbonaro, visit her website https://carycarbonaro.com/ or find her on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/carycarbonarocfp/.

Click the link to get Cary's book Women and Wealth: https://www.amazon.com/Women-Wealth-Playbook-Empower-Clients/dp/1394300271

If you enjoyed this episode, please go to Apple Podcasts and leave a review!

For more information about Lorie Jones, go to https://fearlessfinancialadvisors.com/fearless-females

In this inspiring episode, Sara Simmons, founder of Sera Swimwear and a seasoned HR executive, joins Lorie Jones for a candid conversation about blazing your own trail in male-dominated industries.

They'll explore the difference between confidence and competence, the power of investing in yourself, and the reality of growing a career—and a business—from the ground up. Sara shares her unconventional journey from childhood fashion dreams to building startups, navigating setbacks, and undertaking unique challenges as a woman leader.

Whether you're just getting started or facing your own crossroads, this episode delivers the wisdom, grit, and practical advice you need to take the next fearless step in your career. Get ready to be inspired and empowered on your own path to success!

Show Highlights:

• Two must-reads for leading organizations with a competitive edge. [03:48]

• The opportunity in underserved plus-size apparel with data. [10:58]

• The indispensable value of CE and professional certification. [16:06]

• How to recognize a stagnant job and cues for a change. [16:37]

• Who's in your combined Voltron of key advisors? [19:54]

• Why the advice you take must fit your context and realism. [20:33]

• The truth about fearlessness and micro steps. [28:52]

• Advice to find a 401(k) employer match. [32:24]

• Balance vs. work-life integration for multi-hyphenate women. [34:24]

• Avoid opportunistic thought leaders as early-career women. [39:47]

• Confidence vs. competence in real-life business building. [41:51]

Connect with Sara Simmons on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-s-053a1a126/.

Sara can also be reached via email at [email protected].

If you enjoyed this episode, please go to Apple Podcasts and leave a review!

For more information about Lorie Jones, go to https://fearlessfinancialadvisors.com/fearless-females.

In this episode, Lorie Jones sits down with Sarah Hubbard, author of The Intentional Networker and senior residential mortgage loan officer, to uncover the real stories behind thriving as a woman in a male-dominated field.

From Sarah's nonlinear journey from athletic aspirations and physical therapy to succeeding in the world of mortgage lending, to her candid lessons about debt, networking, and staying true to oneself, this conversation is packed with honest insights and a dash of humor. Discover why authenticity is the secret to attracting the right people, the importance of intentional networking, and how trusting your intuition can make all the difference.

If you're ready to be inspired by genuine resilience and actionable advice from a woman who carved her own path against the odds, this episode is for you. Tune in and celebrate the magic of showing up exactly as you are.

Show Highlights:

• Why your networking journey is the path to a thriving career. [08:52]

• What's the real "work" in networking that makes it work? [11:13]

• Does networking boost sales more than costlier direct mail? [16:25]

• Tweaking male-originated playbooks in finance as a woman. [19:43]

• Can introverts be powerful networkers? [21:25]

• Lessons from legal intake for securing referral partners or contacts. [23:34]

• Do you have to spend money you don't have to find business? [26:29]

• Who are the best referral partners for mortgage loan officers? [30:09]

• Standing out with resonance in diverse speaking spaces. [39:27]

• Writing and self-publishing a book despite dyslexia. [47:13]

• What young women must establish with intuition for a shining career. [50:23]

Learn more about Sarah Hubbard at https://sarah-hubbard.com/#about. Follow her on Instagram @sarahannflann.

Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-hubbard-flannery/.

If you enjoyed this episode, please go to Apple Podcasts and leave a review!

For more information about Lorie Jones, go to https://fearlessfinancialadvisors.com/fearless-females.

Today's episode features Brittany Churchill, founder and CEO of Strategies for Moms, bestselling author of Tap In Not Out, and champion of parental mental health. Join host Lorie Jones for a conversation with Brittany that explores the journey of rebuilding after divorce, embracing financial self-sovereignty, and thriving as a woman entrepreneur.

From investing in yourself and overcoming unexpected transitions to how deep listening can break cycles of overwhelm, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice. Whether you're navigating the challenges of motherhood, considering your next career move, or seeking empowerment in your financial life, you'll find wisdom and encouragement in the life lessons Brittany brings to this discussion.

Get ready to tap in—not out—and discover how cultivating self-awareness, resilience, and independence can shape an extraordinary career and help cultivate peace in life.

Show Highlights:

• Mind-clearing with deep listening, with a junk drawer analogy. [07:09]

• Invest in yourself to "tap in, not out" after a divorce or life overhaul. [11:14]

• How a book coach can help you write and get published. [17:32]

• Advice for stay-at-home moms on financial self-sovereignty. [20:46]

• Why it's not humble to shrink self-confidence and growth. [24:58]

• What would you be if you were Michelangelo and etched yourself out? [30:35]

• The empowering foundation of taking a money course. [36:09]

• Lessons for betting on yourself and allowing setbacks to torpedo. [38:16]

• Shocking data on access to capital for female founders. [43:40]

• Strides in maternal mental health and advocacy. [45:27]

• Keeping a compassionate inner voice as young women. [47:54]

Get Brittany Churchill's book Tap In Not Out at https://tapinnotout.com/.

To connect with Brittany, go to https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittany-churchill/ on LinkedIn, or email her at [email protected].

If you enjoyed this episode, please go to Apple Podcasts and leave a review!

For more information about Lorie Jones, go to https://fearlessfinancialadvisors.com/fearless-females.

In this episode, Lorie Jones sits down with Rebecca Blacker, a New York City real estate broker who dared to bet on herself transitioning from maternity leave with a career pivot and found success with her commitment to authenticity, even when she was advised to "tone it down" to be taken seriously in a male-dominated industry.

This conversation is a masterclass for young women forging their way in leadership, finance, and business, fields where so many are told to "dim their light." Rebecca shares how she flipped that script, building a thriving brand and career anchored in her true character. She also discusses family legacy, strategic video marketing for social media, navigating setbacks, investing in professional growth, and balancing the demands of home and work.

If you've ever wondered whether you should play smaller to succeed, or if you need a reminder to show up as yourself, this episode is for you. Share it with someone who needs this encouraging message today!

Show Highlights:

• The Full Fee Agent and the power of strategic questions in real estate. [03:28]

• Navigating a family legacy and rediscovering true ambitions. [06:59]

• Why invest in professional video marketing and not DIY it. [15:21]

• Can you thrive in male-dominated fields with a bubbly nature? [18:55]

• Asking for help and learning from mistakes in early career. [22:19]

• The future value of buying an apartment when you're young. [28:25]

• Tips for handling fear of job loss in high-pressure careers. [31:07]

• Do you have a "cheerleading bench" ready to encourage you? [33:23]

• Resilience in the ongoing mental load of working motherhood. [36:13]

• Managing life's seasons with imperfect but achievable balance. [40:45]

Follow Rebecca Blacker on Instagram @RebeccaBlacker.

To reach out to Rebecca, email her at [email protected] or visit https://blackerandreed.com/.

If you enjoyed this episode, please go to Apple Podcasts and leave a review!

For more information about Lorie Jones, go to https://fearlessfinancialadvisors.com/fearless-females.

Today, host Lorie Jones welcomes Nicole Riehl, President and CEO of EPIC (Executives Partnering to Invest in Children). Nicole shares her unconventional career path, starting in early childhood education, moving to the financial sector, and ultimately leading an organization focused on business-driven solutions for childcare.

Nicole talks about building confidence, making bold career moves, and the value of recognizing your capabilities even in the face of fear. She explains how embracing change and taking smart risks shaped her success. She also discusses challenges unique to women, like balancing a demanding career with family and managing the real impact of childcare costs. You will hear insights into the importance of mentorship, investing in professional growth, and cultivating supportive networks.

Nicole's story proves you don't have to wait for permission to pursue your calling, reminding us all that believing in yourself is the first step toward achieving meaningful impact.

Show Highlights:

• Zigzag career paths with value at every twist. [06:29]

• Discover lesser-known, high-impact opportunities in ECE. [09:08]

• Is embracing self-belief simpler than most women think? [14:36]

• The power of professional coaching and how to find it. [16:43]

• Puppy-like traits that mirror the value-add from young hires. [21:16]

• Unspoken office frustrations and learning to speak up. [28:37]

• Should young professionals invest early in a 401(k)? [32:59]

• How failing forward reorients mistakes towards excellence. [35:39]

• Penalty vs. pay rise and gendered post-childbirth realities. [39:33]

• What's the "8" work–life integration model? [45:12]

• Do you say "just" to soften what you say? [48:22]

Find Nicole Riehl on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-riehl-ab46634/.

Explore EPIC and connect with Nicole at https://www.epicimpact.org/meet-the-team/.

If you enjoyed this episode, please go to Apple Podcasts and leave a review!

For more information about Lorie Jones, go to https://fearlessfinancialadvisors.com/fearless-females.

Today, host Lorie Jones sits down with trailblazing biotech leader Dr. Sheila Gujrathi, whose journey from a physician in a family of doctors to biotech executive, author, and advocate will both inspire and challenge you.

Dr. Gujrathi opens up about forging her own path and making audacious career pivots from an upbringing guided by traditional expectations to breaking new ground in biotech and pharma. She shares how her passion for medicine evolved into a mission to bring life-changing therapies to patients around the world, and why authenticity, investing in yourself, and finding the right people are crucial for both career success and personal fulfillment.

This episode highlights the toughest lessons on the path to success—silencing doubt, rising above bad advice (especially when told to "fit in" or play small), and the real value of having champions in your corner—with actionable guidance on seeking opportunities, self-advocacy, and the power of lifting others as you climb. Get ready to be inspired and fearless!

Show Highlights:

• Pivoting from a medical family legacy to pursue a North Star. [04:55]

• The promise of immunology in biotech's next-gen therapies. [10:56]

• Embracing authenticity over fitting in as an underrepresented leader. [15:29]

• Who are "your people" supporting and amplifying your true self? [19:57]

• "FIDS," the internal glass ceiling, and three steps to freedom. [22:33]

• Why choosing people beyond job roles matters. [31:15]

• How self-empowerment boosts negotiation and mentorship. [35:30]

• Making a satellite fund work apart from your core portfolio. [38:09]

• Overcoming fear of visibility with the power of engagement. [40:10]

• Discover Dr. Gujrathi's advocacy work and resources. [50:23]

To connect with Dr. Sheila Gujrathi on LinkedIn, go to https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheila-gujrathi-md/, or visit her website https://sheilagujrathimd.com/.

Click the link to check out her book The Mirror Effect on Amazon.

If you enjoyed this episode, please go to Apple Podcasts and leave a review!

For more information about Lorie Jones, go to https://fearlessfinancialadvisors.com/fearless-females.

Today, host Lorie Jones spotlights Laura Garfield, co-founder of Idea Decanter and accidental author of Find Your #Finfluence, who has carved out a unique space in video marketing for finance and healthcare. Laura reveals the real story behind building a career that blends creativity with strategy, even when life demands a daring pivot.

You will be drawn to Laura's candid honesty about the lessons learned from "accidental" entrepreneurship and the surprising power of authentic self-promotion. She explains why being on video matters, even when it's uncomfortable. She brings actionable insights for the woman who is ready to take control of her personal brand, find her genius zone, and say yes to opportunities on a path that is uncertain and non-linear.

If you're ready to amplify your strengths and brand, and champion other ambitious women along the way, don't miss this episode.

Show Highlights:

• Find Your #Finfluence on using video to build authority. [05:37]
• Pivoting from specialist to generalist owner to niche owner. [10:29]
• Should passion or research drive a business launch? [15:45]
• Key post-COVID signals on video presentation skills. [18:33]
• What if your woman's intuition rejects consultant advice? [22:26]
• Exiting the linear career mindset early with purpose. [25:27]
• Why your network is a financial decision and career currency. [29:22]
• Advice to save half your income from the first paycheck. [30:59]
• Working women over generations and the reality of trade-offs. [37:53]
• Is there a "right" work–life balance women must achieve? [42:55]
• The power of building a personal brand that belongs to you. [46:47]

DM Laura Garfield on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauragarfield/ or find her on the Idea Decanter website at https://ideadecanter.com/team/.

If you enjoyed this episode, please go to Apple Podcasts and leave a review!

For more information about Lorie Jones, go to https://fearlessfinancialadvisors.com/fearless-females.

This podcast is hosted by Lorie Jones, an Investment Adviser Representative of Fidelis Wealth Advisors, a registered investment adviser. Registration as an investment adviser does not imply a certain level of skill or training. The information discussed on this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute personalized investment advice or a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any securities or other financial products. The views and opinions expressed by our guest speaker are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Fidelis Wealth Advisors or Fearless Financial Advisors LLC. The guest speaker is not affiliated with Fidelis Wealth Advisors and has not been compensated for their participation in this episode. Investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. For specific advice related to your financial situation, please consult with a qualified financial professional. For additional information about Fidelis Wealth Advisors, including its Firm ADV disclosure documents, please visit http://fidelis-wealth.com.