In this inspiring episode, former litigator Kate Reder Sheikh shares her courageous journey of trusting her intuition to pivot from a demanding legal career to a fulfilling role as a legal recruiter. Kate reveals how unexpected life events, including a move abroad and a challenging personal experience, became catalysts for profound self-discovery. She underscores the importance of aligning your professional path with your core values, advocating for others (especially lawyer moms and underrepresented groups), and trusting your gut to create a career where you not only thrive but also make a significant impact. Kate's story is a powerful reminder that meaningful work often lies beyond the traditional path, waiting to be discovered when you dare to listen to your inner compass.

Your meaningful career is within reach. Listen to Kate's story and ignite your own journey.

Learn how to become a Lioness: https://www.jenportercoach.com/

Connect with me: www.linkedin.com/in/jenportercoach

Find Kate Reder Sheikh here:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-reder-sheikh/

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Lioness Conversations

00:59
Navigating the Legal Landscape

05:51
The Matchmaker Approach in Legal Recruitment

09:49
Transitioning from Litigation to Leadership

15:02
Life Lessons from Singapore

15:54
Discovering Purpose in Transition

18:54
Navigating Career Changes and Identity

21:50
Embracing New Opportunities in London

24:53
Building Confidence and Overcoming Ego

28:01
The Roots of Bravery and Activism

30:51
Empowering Others Through Advocacy

33:25
Navigating Self-Presentation in Interviews

38:04
Trusting Your Instincts in Recruitment

40:33
Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

46:36
Coping with Chronic Pain

47:34
Empowering Lawyer Moms

52:43
Finding Your Mission and Purpose

What if the key to your healing, courage, and connection was hidden in your voice? In this powerful conversation, Jen Porter sits down with Deena Kamm—Vocal Coach, Rock Choir leader, and creator of the upcoming musical Voiceless—to explore how reclaiming your voice transforms everything. From trauma and tension to joy and resonance, Deena shares how the voice is not only a tool for communication, but a pathway to identity, empowerment, and healing. Whether you're whispering your truth or ready to roar, this episode invites you to take up space—vocally and boldly.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Lioness Conversations

02:32
Dina Kamm's Journey and Voiceless Musical

07:59
The Vision Behind Voiceless

11:05
Voice Up Program and Its Impact

16:59
The Science of Singing and Health Benefits

23:59
Cultural Perspectives on Voice and Volume

28:58
Finding Your Voice: Personal Stories and Growth

33:58
Finding Comfort on Stage

35:12
The Journey to Songwriting

36:40
Yelling on Behalf of Women

39:02
Reflections on Independence and Self-Respect

40:41
Embracing Mistakes and Learning

44:42
The Struggle for Self-Expression

46:10
Fear and Trust in Life

48:43
Authenticity Over Technicality

50:28
Leading from the Stage

52:00
Future Aspirations and Projects

55:43
Creating Voice Centers for Healing

57:53
The Power of Singing Together

In this powerful Lioness Conversations episode, Jen Porter sits down with the formidable Ale Spray, Latina CEO and President of the Hispanic Contractors of Colorado. Journey with Ale from her roots in Guadalajara, Mexico, as she shattered concrete ceilings in the male-dominated construction industry. Hear firsthand how she confronted challenges, the pivotal role of mentorship in her ascent, and her unwavering commitment to building a pipeline of future leaders. Ale's story is a testament to unyielding resilience, fierce determination, and the transformative power of community, proving that no barrier is too strong for a true lioness.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Lioness Conversations

01:46
Ali Spray's Journey in Construction

05:59
Overcoming Gender Barriers in Engineering

12:12
Navigating Challenges in a Male-Dominated Field

17:51
Transitioning to the U.S. and Career Growth

23:55
The Role of Mentorship in Ali's Success

29:59
Building a Legacy and Supporting Future Leaders

33:40
The Power of Mentorship and Advocacy

39:08
Embracing Change and Growth

40:41
Overcoming Resistance and Criticism

45:00
Negotiating for Leadership and Recognition

49:01
Creating a Legacy and Impact

53:59
Empowering Future Generations

01:00:09
The Journey of Bravery and Storytelling

Navigating Career Transitions with Confidence: Empowering Women to Thrive

What if the key to your next big career move isn’t just in your resume, but in your mindset, confidence, and support system? In this powerful conversation, Jacqueline Potter, co-founder of Collectively, joins Jen Porter to discuss how women can take control of their career transitions, rebuild confidence after setbacks, and find the right coaching and mentorship to move forward.

From overcoming burnout to making bold leadership moves, Jacqueline shares invaluable insights into why women often feel stuck, how to invest in yourself without guilt, and the power of community in professional growth. If you’ve ever questioned your next step or felt alone in your career journey, this episode will remind you: you have choices, you have power, and you don’t have to do it alone.

Tune in to discover:
🔥 How to navigate career changes with clarity and confidence
🔥 The unspoken challenges women face in leadership and entrepreneurship
🔥 Why investing in yourself is the best career move you’ll ever make
🔥 The role of mentorship and coaching in breaking through career plateaus
🔥 How community and validation can reignite your passion for your work

This is the conversation every ambitious woman needs to hear. Listen now and take your next step with courage!

Check out how to become a Lioness: https://www.jenportercoach.com/

Connect with me: www.linkedin.com/in/jenportercoach

Find Jacqueline Potter and Sarah Miles here:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/thecollectivelyco/

Collectively: https://www.thecollectivelyco.com/

The Grief Gal: https://thegriefgal.com/

🌿 Grief is not an identity — it’s an experience.

In this powerful conversation, I sit down with Rachel Tenpenny McGonigle, who shares her courageous journey of navigating unimaginable loss after the death of her twin daughters. Rather than letting grief define her, Rachel chose a path of healing — one that has empowered thousands of others to reclaim their lives after loss.

We explore the cultural misunderstandings around grief, the importance of self-advocacy, and how healing requires integrating pain into our identity rather than being consumed by it. Rachel’s insights will challenge you to think differently about grief — not as a permanent state, but as a transformational experience.

If you’ve ever faced loss or walked alongside someone in grief, this conversation is for you. 💛

✨ Because even in the deepest sorrow, healing is possible.

Find Rachel here: https://thegriefgal.com/
and here: https://www.instagram.com/the_grief_gal/

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Grief and Healing

05:06
Rachel's Personal Story of Loss

15:32
Cultural Perspectives on Grief

20:30
Grief as Identity vs. Experience

23:47
Navigating Pain and Healing

39:54
Building Identity After Loss

42:03
Navigating Grief: The Importance of Support

44:38
Marriage and Grief: A Revealing Journey

46:41
Healing Through Clarity: The Path Forward

49:47
Embracing Pain: The Power of Staying Present

52:58
Creating a Plan: Navigating Grief Like a Riptide

57:50
The Choice in Grief: Empowerment and Responsibility

01:01:30
Honoring Loss: Choosing Life Beyond Grief

01:09:22
Understanding Different Types of Loss

01:11:43
Grief in the Wake of Disaster: The Wildfire Experience

01:15:49
The Grief Revolution: Normalizing Healing and Support

Talent operations guru Christy Honeycutt joins me, Jen Porter on Lioness Conversations to discuss revolutionizing recruitment with AI, humanizing the hourly workforce, and embracing authenticity in leadership. Christy shares her journey from stay-at-home mom to Executive, highlighting resilience, risk-taking, and her passion for empowering others.

Listen as Christy shares her wisdom!

• Authenticity as a Superpower: Leading with Values and Initiative
• AI for Humanity: Revolutionizing Recruitment with Empathy
• From Stay-at-Home Mom to Executive Leadership

Ready to dive in?
1. Share this episode with the "Lioness Women" in your life
2. Connect with Christy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cwiseman/; https://www.instagram.com/christy_honeycutt/; https://x.com/ChristyHon1748
3. Join the Lioness Community and nominate a Lioness you know - reach out to me here: https://www.jenportercoach.com/

Chapters
00:00
Introduction to Christy Honeycutt
01:20
Transforming Recruitment with AI and Automation
04:04
Enhancing the Experience for Hourly Employees
07:16
Humanizing AI in Recruitment
11:28
Measuring Success: Metrics and Outcomes
16:17
The Evolution of Leadership
20:37
Finding Authenticity in Leadership
27:07
Embracing Native American Heritage in Leadership
35:29
Navigating Life Changes and Resilience
40:22
The Power of Authenticity and Self-Advocacy
44:02
Career Growth Through Risk and Innovation
51:52
Launching a New Podcast: Sharing Wisdom and Experiences
54:35
Vision for the Future: Empowering Others and Personal Growth

Join me, Jen Porter, as I sit down with Alani Bankhead, a true force of nature. Alani's resume reads like something out of a spy novel: counter-espionage agent, human trafficking hunter, and even bodyguard to a high-ranking Pentagon official. But beyond the thrilling missions and impressive titles lies a powerful story of overcoming imposter syndrome and embracing a higher calling.

In this captivating episode, Alani shares her incredible journey, from her childhood fascination with military service to her current mission of ridding the world of fear. She opens up about her own struggles with self-doubt, revealing how even at the peak of her career, she felt unworthy and inadequate. Alani candidly discusses the "imposter syndrome" that plagued her for years, despite her remarkable achievements, and how she eventually learned to harness her fears and turn them into strengths.

Discover how Alani's experiences, from confronting the horrors of child exploitation to leading counterintelligence operations, have shaped her unique perspective on courage. She challenges the conventional definition of bravery, arguing that true courage lies not in facing physical danger, but in embracing vulnerability and pursuing one's true purpose. Alani shares powerful anecdotes, including the story of intelligence analysts who overcame their fears to revolutionize child predator identification, demonstrating the transformative power of conquering self-doubt.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone who has ever struggled with imposter syndrome, felt the weight of fear holding them back, or yearned to step into their true potential. Alani's inspiring story will leave you feeling empowered to confront your own fears, embrace your unique gifts, and step into the most meaningful work of your life.

Find Alani Bankhead here:
www.linkedin.com/in/alanibankhead/

www.instagram.com/mightysparrowcoaching

www.facebook.com/mightysparrowcoaching

www.mightysparrowcoaching.com

And watch her Tedx Talk: 
https://www.ted.com/talks/alani_bankhead_k9_lulu_how_dogs_are_helping_fight_child_sex_abuse

This isn't just a conversation; it's a call to action. Diana Maldonado's story is a battle cry for women to claim their rightful place in the halls of power. From the dusty streets of a border town to the Texas State Capitol, Diana's journey is a testament to the strength, resilience, and sheer grit it takes to shatter glass ceilings and rewrite the rules of the game. I sat down with Diana to uncover the secrets of her success, and what she shared will ignite a fire within you.

In this episode, we delve into:

• The spark that ignited Diana's political ambition: Discover the unexpected moment that set her on a path to change the world.
• The mentorship gap and how Diana is filling it: She reveals the crucial need for guidance and support for women daring to enter the political arena, and how she's taking matters into her own hands.
• Confronting the forces of resistance: Diana doesn't shy away from the hard truths about the obstacles women face in politics – the discrimination, the stereotypes, the blatant attempts to silence their voices. Hear how she turned these challenges into weapons of empowerment.
• The unwavering spirit of a leader: Diana shares the mindset that fueled her through brutal campaigns and relentless opposition. Her story is a masterclass in resilience and unwavering self-belief.
• Fueling the next generation of political warriors: Diana's online course, "Candidate School," is her legacy – a powerful tool to equip women with the strategies and confidence they need to win.

This episode isn't for the faint of heart. It's for women who are ready to rise, to lead, and to take their place at the table. Join me and Diana Maldonado as we ignite the fire within and unleash the power of women in politics.

Call to Action:

• Subscribe to Lioness Conversations and join the movement of women taking charge- https://lioness.transistor.fm/
• Share this episode with every woman you know who has the potential to lead. https://youtu.be/XMvVIvNqods
• Explore Diana's transformative work and enroll in Candidate School at www.dianamaldonado.com

In this episode of Lioness Conversations, I spoke with Sarah Greenwell, founder of Growth Mode Talent Partners.  Sarah shared her inspiring journey through the world of recruiting, leadership, and entrepreneurship.  She offered valuable insights into the importance of empowering women in leadership roles, drawing from her own experiences navigating the transition from corporate life to building her own business.  Sarah candidly discussed the challenges of maintaining work-life balance as an entrepreneur, the critical role of supportive leadership, and the impact of diverse perspectives in shaping successful teams.  She also opened up about her specific experience transitioning from contingent recruitment to the executive level, highlighting the importance of financial security, the support systems that have helped her along the way, and the value of building trust within a team.  Throughout the conversation, Sarah emphasized the connection between health and career fulfillment, the importance of finding the right fit in all aspects of life, and the evolving landscape of female leadership.  Her reflections on celebrating small victories and embracing inner strength resonated deeply, offering a powerful message for women striving for success in all areas of their lives.

Learn more about Sarah Greenwell and Growth Mode Partners here:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahcgreenwell/

https://www.growthmode.partners/

Chapters:
00:00
Empowering Women in Leadership

05:06
The Journey to Recruiting

09:55
Health and Career Fulfillment

15:01
Navigating Risks and Changes

19:54
The Importance of Diversity in Leadership

25:09
Launching a Recruiting Business

32:40
Financial Fears and Family Dynamics

40:46
Meaningful Work and Company Culture

46:50
Embracing the Lioness Within

53:44
Connecting with Sarah Greenwell

In this episode of Lioness Conversations I speak with Trish McCall, founder of Wild Haven, about her journey of healing from trauma. We discuss the importance of community support, the role of yoga and nature in recovery, and the ongoing process of personal growth. Trish shares her experiences as a nurse and trauma therapy guide, emphasizing the need for accessible resources for trauma survivors. Our conversation highlights the significance of self-love, the power of breath, and the impact of faith in the healing journey. Trish's vision for Wild Haven aims to create a sanctuary for those in need, fostering a sense of belonging and empowerment.

Wild Haven LION/LIONESS 1 Month FREE Membership
https://www.wildhavenandco.com/offers/6eTJa9v4

Sign up for NuTRISHional Nugget: www.wildhavenandco.com

Wild Haven Donation Page 
https://www.wildhavenandco.com/donate