What does it really mean to own your power in business—and still be likeable?

In this powerful episode of Build the Damn Thing, Kathryn Finney sits down with Dr. Alison Fragale, negotiation expert, professor at the University of North Carolina, and author of "Likeable Badass: How Women Get the Success They Desrve", to unpack how underestimated entrepreneurs can navigate power, presence, and persuasion without losing themselves.

They explore what it means to be a “likeable badass,” why curiosity is one of the most underrated business tools, and how storytelling can be your secret weapon in negotiations. Alison shares practical strategies that you can use to confidently advocate for yourself, build authentic connections, and push back on the myth that assertiveness and likability are mutually exclusive.

Whether you’re walking into a pitch meeting, asking for what you’re worth, or trying to build strategic business relationships, this episode is packed with the tools you need to stand tall and get what you came for.

What You’ll Learn:

• How to self-promote without the cringe

• Why presence matters more than polish

• The truth about power (and how to use it effectively)

• Negotiation tips that actually work for women

• How to build influence through connection and storytelling

More from this episode:

• Learn more about Alison Fragale’s work and speaking at alisonfragale.com

• Check out her book Likeable Badass: How Women Get the Success They Deserve, here

• Discover more about Kathryn at kathrynfinney.com

• Join the movement at the Build the Damn Thing community

🎧 Available now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.

Tune in now and start showing up like the badass you already are.

🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube.

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