Workplace culture doesn’t become toxic overnight, and the warning signs often show up long before leaders take action. In this episode, workplace culture and leadership experts Rebecca Del Secco and Catherine Mattice join Kara to break down the early indicators of a toxic workplace, how harmful behaviors are allowed to persist, and the critical role leadership plays in accountability and psychological safety. They explore how silence, fear, gossip, and unchecked power dynamics erode trust, what employees can do when they feel unsafe at work, and how leaders can intervene before toxicity becomes embedded in company culture. The conversation also covers rebuilding trust, navigating difficult conversations, and knowing when it’s time to advocate for change, or make the decision to leave.

Chapters:

00:00 Navigating Toxic Workplace Culture

03:07 Changing Definitions of Toxicity

05:52 Extreme Cases of Workplace Bullying

08:40 Identifying Toxic Work Environments

11:43 The Role of Leadership in Culture

14:45 Coaching and Feedback Dynamics

17:33 The Importance of Psychological Safety

20:39 Feedback and Communication Strategies

23:38 The Power of Core Values

26:30 Integrating Visionary and Operational Roles

29:36 Operationalizing Culture

32:41 Intentionality in Culture

35:32 The Balance of Systems and Creativity

38:31 Empowering Change in Culture

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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Danielle McWaters is the creative force behind Designsake Studio and co-founder of Sardine Eyewear, building brands with intention, strategy, and joy. In this episode, she joins Kara to share how she’s creating meaningful, lasting brands while navigating the challenges of launching product-based businesses. They dive into brand positioning, strategy, customer experience, and how to grow sustainably without losing integrity. Danielle also explores personal evolution, reconnecting with your creativity, and embracing whimsy in life and work. If you’re building a brand, craving more creativity, or leading with purpose, this episode is packed with inspiration.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Danielle McWaters and Her Ventures

03:12 Career Path and the Launch of Designsake Studio

05:59 Transitioning to Eyewear: The Birth of Sardin

08:52 The Importance of Positioning in Branding

12:07 The Role of Strategy in Business Success

14:59 Navigating Brand Identity and Consumer Connection

18:01 The Challenge of Balancing Sales and Strategy

21:03 The Essence of Brand Purpose and Integrity

23:55 The Need for Whimsy and Individuality in Fashion

26:53 Embracing Change and Self-Expression

29:43 Reflecting on Childhood Imagination and Creativity

31:28 Embracing Whimsy and Authenticity in Style

33:13 Reflecting on Personal Growth and Identity

36:38 The Importance of Internal Validation

39:49 Choosing Agency and Direction in Life

41:34 Building a Purpose-Driven Business

47:01 Navigating Product Development and Sustainability

54:50 Rapid Fire Reflections and Personal Insights

he 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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Kathryn Musilek is building a PR business that actually reflects her values—and gets real results for creatives. As the founder of Shark Party Media, Kathryn specializes in matching creatives with podcast guesting opportunities, carving out a much-needed niche in today’s crowded media landscape. In this episode, Kara Duffy and Kathryn unpack her journey from working in traditional PR (including with legends like Ringo Starr) to launching a values-driven agency where selectivity, alignment, and clear communication come first. They explore how PR and podcasting are rapidly changing, why building your business “selfishly” around who you are actually works, and what truly matters when making long-term business decisions. This conversation is a must-listen for creatives, founders, and anyone rethinking how visibility, media, and values intersect.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to The Powerful Ladies

00:18 Meet Kathryn Musilek: Founder of Shark Party Media

02:06 The Evolution of Shark Party Media

04:20 Navigating the PR Landscape

09:43 Building a Business Around Your Values

12:54 The Changing World of PR and Social Media

15:21 The Power of Optimism and Lead Time in PR

16:37 Finding the Right Clients and Projects

18:58 Trends and Insights in Podcasting

24:45 The Importance of Gratitude and Perspective

28:43 The Power of Imperfect Actions

29:24 The Neuroscience of Positive Affirmations

30:28 Leveraging Your Network for Success

32:01 The Importance of Clear Communication

40:11 The Role of AI in Modern Communication

50:44 Defining Powerful Ladies

53:10 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Stefanie Phan helps women transform anxiety into grounded confidence and intentional manifestation. As an Identity and Nervous System Coach, she supports clients in regulating their bodies so they can create from a place of peace, clarity, and abundance. In this episode, Stefanie joins Kara to share her journey from the fashion industry into coaching, the pivotal moments that led her to change paths, and why self-regulation is the foundation of everything we want to build, become, and experience.

Kara and Stefanie dive into why manifestation doesn’t work when it’s rooted in fear, how accepting where you are is often the most powerful first step forward, and what it really takes to make sustainable change, especially while navigating health challenges and major life transitions. If you’re ready to stop pushing, start regulating, and make 2026 your most aligned year yet, this episode is a must-listen.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to the Episode

01:16 Meet Stefanie Phan 

03:21 Stefanie's Journey to Life Coaching

05:46 The Intersection of Fashion and Coaching

09:02 Manifestation and Nervous System Regulation

16:24 Powerful Ladies and Personal Growth

26:36 Cultural Perspectives and Personal Power

33:39 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Many of us will reinvent ourselves throughout our lives, but Brittny Button has mastered reinvention with intention. As an in-demand Los Angeles interior and product designer, Brittny’s latest chapter follows careers as a model, primary parent, supportive spouse to a Formula 1 driver, real estate investor, and entrepreneur. In this episode, Kara and Brittny discuss why honoring the history of a space matters, the importance of protecting architectural diversity, and why pursuing your passion, no matter how accomplished you are, still requires courage. Brittny shares personal stories about navigating multiple careers, building a design practice rooted in integrity, and embracing vulnerability while stepping into her full creative power. This episode is perfect for aspiring designers, women in transition, and anyone drawn to intentional, meaningful living.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to the Powerful Ladies Podcast

00:34 Meet Brittny Button: A Multifaceted Career Journey

01:48 The Philosophy of Interior Design

03:00 The Importance of Preserving Architectural Diversity

04:44 Intentional Living and Design

07:14 Personal Reflections and Family Life

09:49 Brittny's Upbringing and Early Influences

12:11 Transitioning Careers and Finding Passion

13:33 Life with a Formula One Driver

18:47 Empowering Women and Building Confidence

21:29 Empowering Women to Shine

22:04 Financial Literacy and Generational Wealth

23:01 Pursuing Dreams Despite Setbacks

24:31 The Role of Coaches and Mentors

25:26 Motherhood and Entrepreneurship

28:53 Celebrating Success and Teamwork

30:06 Defining Powerful Ladies

34:25 Dream Clients and Historical Homes

39:49 Manifesting Dreams and Community Support

41:11 Conclusion and Farewell

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.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of The Powerful Ladies Podcast, host Kara Duffy sits down with Kathy Clark and Brenna Van Hoogenstyn, the expert mother-daughter real estate team transforming how buyers and sellers navigate the Southern California real estate market. Kathy and Brenna share their real estate career journey, what it takes to succeed as top-performing realtors, and the skills required to thrive in a highly competitive—and often misunderstood—industry. Kara explores current Southern California housing market trends, common myths about becoming a realtor, and the personal and professional strategies that help this family team deliver exceptional client service. Whether you’re planning to buy a home, exploring real estate as a career, or want insider insights into today’s housing market, this episode is filled with valuable, actionable advice.

Chapters:

0:00 Introduction to The Powerful Ladies Podcast

00:36 Meet the Real Estate Experts: Kathy Clark and Brenda Van Hoenstein

00:51 The Realities of the Real Estate Market

02:10 Starting in Real Estate: Kathy's Journey

05:16 Building a Long-Term Real Estate Business

07:39 The Importance of Relationships in Real Estate

14:22 Advice for First-Time Home Buyers in Southern California

19:24 Current Real Estate Market Trends and Predictions

26:28 The Future of Real Estate Development in Southern California

31:06 Exploring the Long Beach Market

31:58 Balancing Business and Personal Relationships

32:17 Communication and Therapy

33:35 Generational Differences and Personal Growth

38:11 Powerful Ladies and Inner Strength

39:46 Daily Habits and Self-Care

42:25 Entrepreneurial Challenges and Rewards

50:08 Reflections on Self-Employment

52:16 Final Thoughts 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.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Johanna Davenport Calica is redefining the swimwear industry. As the founder and CEO of LaPorte Swim, a fast-growing swimwear and resort wear brand, she shares her journey from intern to entrepreneur and how she built a successful fashion business from the ground up. In this episode, Kara and Johanna discuss how to launch and scale a swimwear brand, the importance of thoughtful design and body positivity, leveraging modern technology while maintaining human connection, and key strategies for growing a business in a competitive industry. You’ll hear Johanna’s insights on entrepreneurship, building a brand that resonates with customers, and how women founders can create impact while chasing their dreams. This episode is a must-listen for aspiring entrepreneurs, fashion business leaders, and anyone interested in swimwear, brand strategy, and female empowerment in business.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Powerful Ladies

00:28 Meet Johanna Davenport Calica

01:17 Johanna's Background and Journey

03:39 Challenges of Starting a Swimwear Brand

08:46 The Importance of Team and Support

13:37 Navigating the Fashion Industry

18:12 Embracing Technology and Authenticity

21:46 Sustainable and Thoughtful Growth

27:41 Virgil Abloh's Thoughtful Brand Strategy

28:52 Learning from Successful Brands

30:05 Balancing Marketing and Product Development

30:53 Data-Driven Decision Making

34:44 Personal Style and Fashion Trends

40:14 The Concept of Powerful Ladies

44:25 Self-Improvement and Leadership

50:04 Expanding the Business Globally

51:05 Connecting with the Brand

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.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Priya David Clemens is a national news journalist, producer, and entrepreneur, and the founder of Keepsake Studios, a company dedicated to capturing and preserving family legacies. In this episode, she and Kara talk about the power of storytelling, the evolution of journalism, and what it means to choose family first while pursuing a demanding career. Priya shares her journey from anchoring at NBC and CBS to creating a business rooted in connection, ancestry, and legacy, and how uncovering our family stories can change how we see ourselves. This is a thoughtful conversation about purpose, identity, and the stories that make us who we are. Whether you’re passionate about storytelling, navigating a career transition, or curious about preserving your own family history, this episode is for you.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to The Powerful Ladies

00:22 Meet Priya David Clemens

01:01 Priya's Early Life and Career Beginnings

03:23 The Evolution of Journalism

08:12 Diversity in Journalism

09:54 Priya's Journey with NBC and CBS

16:21 The Importance of Family Stories

19:31 Keepsake Studios: Preserving Family Legacies

30:37 The Value of Family and Friendship

32:38 The Power of Connections

34:24 Leveraging Social Media for Networking

35:47 The Six Degrees of Separation

37:39 Personal Backstory and Influences

41:06 Empowering Women and Building Confidence

42:54 The Importance of Taking Action

48:53 Facing Challenges and Building Resilience

52:39 Celebrating Achievements and Supporting Each Other

56:53 Final Thoughts and How to Connect

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.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Claudia Romo Edelman is a trailblazing social entrepreneur, activist, and founder of We Are All Human, a nonprofit dedicated to advancing the Latino community. A former United Nations official and UNICEF leader, Claudia has spent her career tackling global challenges while amplifying Hispanic voices worldwide. She’s the author of the Hispanic Star book series, co-host of the A La Latina podcast, and an expert in leveraging the power of the Latino community to drive brand and cultural transformation. In this episode, Kara and Claudia explore what it takes to turn vision into impact, the importance of representation and belonging, and how Latinos are shaping the future of business and culture. You’ll also hear about Claudia’s newest venture—a modern, ultra-premium Mexican luxury spirit called Sotol—that reflects her mission to elevate Latino excellence on the world stage. This conversation is a masterclass in leadership, action, and the art of building from purpose.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Claudia Romo Edelman01:32 Claudia's Current Endeavors and Concerns02:34 Challenges Facing the Latino Community05:49 The Hispanic Sentiment Study09:12 Claudia's Childhood and Activism13:41 The Power of Yes and Entrepreneurship14:07 Sotol: The Next Big Thing20:22 Social Entrepreneurship and Activism23:06 Challenging Stereotypes About Accents23:59 The Power of Multilingualism25:17 Reclaiming Latinidad26:47 The Role of Language in Mental Health27:42 Building Bridges of Tolerance29:59 Mobilizing Communities for Change34:29 Defining Powerful Ladies35:44 Influences and Personal Journeys41:06 Daily Routines and Staying Grounded43:37 Supporting Latino Initiatives45:01 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsThe 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.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ellen Bradley is a skier, scientist, filmmaker, and proud member of the Tlingit Tribe who is redefining what it means to be an Indigenous leader in today’s world. Through her work, Ellen blends tradition, technology, and storytelling to decolonize outdoor spaces and reconnect Indigenous communities to their ancestral lands. In this episode, Kara and Ellen dive into the meaning of being Indigenous in 2025, the significance of the LandBack movement, and how young Indigenous people are using social media to share their stories and spark change. You’ll hear about Ellen’s inspiring journey, including her film Let My People Go Skiing, and how she’s building bridges between cultures through advocacy and art. This episode explores identity, justice, and the power of reclaiming space, both on the slopes and in society.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to The Powerful Ladies Podcast

00:50 Meet Ellen Bradley: A Multifaceted Indigenous Leader

01:35 Ellen's Journey and Contributions

03:32 Cultural Heritage and Community Work

12:58 Navigating Activism and Partnerships

22:34 Challenges and Reflections on Capitalism

28:07 Challenges of Specialization in Western Science

28:58 Indigenous Knowledge and Systemic Thinking

29:50 The Importance of Holistic Approaches

32:11 One Person at a Time: Mentorship and Internships

34:16 Scaling Up: Mountain Access Program

35:36 Entrepreneurial Mindset for Social Good

37:49 Personal Reflections on Career Choices

40:30 Land Back: Reconnecting Indigenous People to Their Lands

46:08 Breaking Down Barriers in Outdoor Spaces

51:04 The Need for Nuanced Conversations

54:35 Upcoming Projects and How to Support

57:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices