Britt Theodora has dressed everyone from Pete Davidson at the Met Gala to emerging actors breaking barriers on screen. As a celebrity stylist and founder of Britt Theodora Studio, she’s built a career that merges high-fashion red carpets with practical, confidence-building style for everyday clients. Britt shares how she carved her path in the competitive world of fashion, why she launched her “energy styling” approach, and how tailoring, color choices, and comfort can change how you show up in the world. She opens up about pivoting during the pandemic, curating looks that tell a story, and why supporting emerging designers matters. Whether you dream of the Met Gala or just want to feel great walking into a meeting, Britt’s insights will inspire you to rethink your relationship with clothes.

Chapters:

00:00 – How Britt found her way into styling without a plan

03:02 – From PR internships to celebrity fittings at Gucci and Lanvin

08:54 – Taking the leap to start Britt Theodora Studio at 25

12:00 – Navigating the pandemic in fashion’s most competitive markets

15:38 – Styling Pete Davidson for the Met Gala

18:54 – Why Britt champions emerging designers and sustainable brands

20:58 – Life and style in New York City: the magic and the chaos

24:50 – The difference between editorial and celebrity styling

31:45 – Why comfort and practicality are shaping post-pandemic red carpets

35:14 – Behind the scenes of “energy styling” and color therapy

42:00 – How working with a stylist transforms confidence

45:14 – The tailoring truths every client should know

53:15 – The importance of identifying your unique value as a creative

56:40 – Power, leadership, and supporting other women in business

59:58 – Advice for creatives navigating uncertainty

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

Brenda Gonzalez, co-CEO and co-host of the Tamarindo Podcast, shares how representation, political organizing, and reclaiming our stories shape the future of the Latinx community. From the origins of the term “Hispanic” to the impact of California’s Prop 187, she reveals why counting, access to source documents, and inclusive language matter for visibility and change. We cover Hollywood representation, voter suppression, and the power of grassroots activism. Plus why she celebrates Latinx heritage all year long. Whether you’re passionate about advocacy, identity, or storytelling, Brenda’s perspective will inspire you to get involved and stay informed.

Chapters:

00:00 Meet Brenda Gonzalez, Tamarindo Podcast Co-CEO

03:00 Creating an empowerment platform for the Latinx community

05:15 Latinx, Hispanic, and Chicano—language, history, and identity

08:20 Why representation and accurate data matter

10:00 Celebrating Latinx heritage year-round

12:00 Hollywood’s evolving Latinx representation

14:30 Understanding California’s Prop 187 and its legacy

17:20 Organizing for immigrant rights and policy change

21:00 Progress in California and national implications

22:30 Fighting misinformation in English and Spanish

23:30 Conversations shifting inside the Latinx community

24:50 Growing up with advocacy and a political voice

27:00 Mentors and powerful women who inspire action

28:40 Redefining the word “lady”

30:40 Starting the Tamarindo Podcast and staying authentic

33:20 Memorable guests and impactful conversations

35:00 Tips for inviting guests and shaping compelling topics

36:40 Balancing podcast production with self-care

39:00 The value of listener reviews for independent creators

41:00 What Brenda wants every Latinx person to know

42:30 How to connect, support, and sponsor Tamarindo

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

Monika McKenzie is the owner of The Yoga Nest, the only Black-owned yoga studio in Hawaii, where she blends physical practice with grounding, spiritual, and trauma-releasing work. She’s also a passionate social justice advocate who refuses to stay silent in the face of injustice, even when it means standing alone. Her journey spans Phoenix, Oakland, Detroit, and Hawaii, weaving together motherhood, entrepreneurship, and activism. Monika shares how yoga became her path to healing, why speaking up is non-negotiable, and how she finds balance through community, self-care, and honest conversations about race and equity. This episode offers inspiration for anyone looking to align their purpose with their actions while protecting their peace.

Chapters:

00:00 – How Monika Found Yoga and Built The Yoga Nest

02:32 – From New Mom to Yoga Studio Owner in Hawaii

05:00 – Why Yoga Is More Than Physical Practice

08:00 – Combining Spiritual Grounding with Trauma Release

12:00 – Owning the Only Black-Owned Yoga Studio in Hawaii

16:57 – Speaking Out Against Injustice, Even When It’s Lonely

20:00 – Building Community Through Yoga and Advocacy

25:00 – The Role of Yoga in Social Justice Movements

29:00 – Balancing Activism, Motherhood, and Entrepreneurship

34:00 – Root Chakra Work for Grounding and Resilience

38:00 – How to Find Peace Without Losing Your Voice

42:00 – Lessons from Leading During Times of Crisis

47:00 – Books and Teachers Who’ve Shaped Her Path

50:00 – Staying Rooted While Creating Change

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

Kristin Rowell went from high-performing trial lawyer to functional nutritional therapist, helping entrepreneurs and executives fuel their bodies for peak performance. Her own health crisis - breaking her leg in 10 places during a frigid Minnesota winter - became the catalyst for a complete career and lifestyle pivot. Kristin shares how she rebuilt her health, the science behind sustainable energy, and why the universe keeps sending the same lessons until you act. She breaks down simple, powerful food and lifestyle changes that boost focus, strength, and resilience without overwhelm. Her story is proof that listening to your body can change the trajectory of your life and business.

Chapters:

00:00 – From Lawyer to Functional Nutritional Therapist

04:00 – Breaking Her Leg and Breaking Old Patterns

09:29 – The Day Everything Changed in -25°F Weather

10:58 – When “Doing Everything Right” Still Fails You

14:00 – Recognizing the Universe’s Persistent Nudges

18:00 – How to Build Sustainable Energy Every Day

22:00 – The Food Choices That Boost Focus and Performance

28:00 – Why High Performers Need Simple Health Systems

33:00 – Navigating Divorce, Career Change, and Reinvention

38:00 – Becoming a Professional Bodybuilder

42:00 – Minimalism, Mindset, and Living with Intention

47:00 – Favorite Books and Influences That Shaped Her Path

52:00 – Advice for Anyone Ready to Pivot Their Life

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

Holly Brandon traded earthquake engineering for storytelling, turning her real-life dating adventures into the award-winning novel Life in the Chastity Zone. After years in STEM and a personal health battle, she found herself navigating the unpredictable world of love, and realized her experiences had all the makings of a great book. She shares how her career shift unfolded, what science taught her about persistence, and why love can’t be engineered like a building. From awkward first dates to the lessons hidden in heartbreak, Holly’s story is about embracing pivots, chasing creativity, and finding humor in the messiest chapters of life.

Chapters:

00:00 – From Earthquake Engineering to Creative Writing

05:28 – How a Health Crisis Changed Her Path

10:32 – Approaching 40 and Rethinking Everything

14:00 – Why Relationships Don’t Follow Career Logic

18:00 – Writing Life in the Chastity Zone

22:00 – Dating Disasters and Comic Relief

28:00 – Lessons Learned from Science and Storytelling

33:00 – How Publishing Differs from Engineering

38:00 – Awards, Recognition, and Reader Reactions

43:00 – Advice for Anyone Considering a Career Pivot

48:00 – The Real Power of Owning Your Story

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

Elizabeth McGarry has been on our #WCW list for decades. She’s an entrepreneur, wife, mom, and one of the kindest, most stylish people you’ll meet. As Creative Director and Co-Founder of McGarry & Sons, she’s built a career designing for brands you know and love (Nike, Reebok, Puma, York Athletics) and mentoring the next generation of creatives. From growing up in suburban Oregon to working in high fashion in Europe, Elizabeth’s journey is one of bold decisions and creative vision. She talks about closing her first company to partner with her husband, raising two boys in a girl-power world, and staying true to what matters most - family, community, and meaningful work. Along the way, she shares the mindset shifts and personal values that have guided her from sportswear design to entrepreneurship, and why she believes creativity is a superpower.

Chapters:

00:00 Meet Elizabeth McGarry

02:15 From suburban Oregon to high fashion in Europe

05:40 Breaking into sportswear design

08:20 Lessons from working with global brands

11:10 The leap to start her first company

13:55 Partnering with her husband at McGarry & Sons

16:30 Balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship

19:20 Raising boys in a girl-power world

22:05 Mentorship and giving back to the industry

24:50 Building a creative business with purpose

27:15 The role of community in personal success

29:40 Staying inspired and avoiding burnout

32:05 Creativity as a lifelong skill

35:20 Advice for designers and entrepreneurs

38:00 What powerful means to Elizabeth

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

Leslie Levito has lived the “dream job” life , from running a skate shop to climbing the corporate ladder, but she realized the real dream was designing her own life. Today, she’s a business coach, entrepreneur, and co-founder of CutClass, helping people break free from traditional jobs and create businesses that align with their vision, values, and goals. We talk about her journey from action sports to the c-suite, the moment she knew it was time to leave, and the systems she’s built to support both business growth and personal freedom. Leslie shares the mindset shifts that made it possible to recover from bankruptcy, why she believes anyone can improve 1% every day, and how those small, consistent actions add up to massive change.

Chapters:

00:00 Thank you for being a yes

01:20 From skate shop beginnings to corporate life

03:15 Riding the action sports wave

05:45 Lessons learned during the recession

08:10 Moving from employee to entrepreneur

10:30 The birth of CutClass and helping others launch

13:05 Recovering from bankruptcy and bouncing back

15:45 The 1% improvement philosophy

18:20 Building systems for freedom and flexibility

21:00 Balancing multiple businesses and life roles

23:15 Using creativity to solve business problems

26:40 Finding clarity in your vision and goals

29:10 How to know when it’s time to leave your job

31:25 Advice for new entrepreneurs starting out

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

Gayle Warfield turned her creativity into a thriving business, one enamel pin at a time. As the Owner, CEO, Designer, and Creative Mind behind Teal Teacup, she’s built a brand that spreads happiness through art while supporting a loyal, passionate community. Her journey took her from a career in UI/UX design to becoming the artist, maker, and face of a growing accessories brand. Gayle opens up about the evolution of her business, the power of the enamel pin community, and how she’s balanced creative integrity with financial growth. We also talk about crowdfunding, building connections with customers, and what it means to be a multi-layered creative who refuses to settle for anything less than a life you love.

Chapters:

00:00 From UI/UX design to creative entrepreneurship

02:15 Launching Teal Teacup and the first enamel pin designs

04:05 Discovering the enamel pin community

06:45 Balancing creative work with single motherhood

09:20 Navigating ADHD and dyslexia as a business owner

12:00 Building a brand identity customers connect with

14:10 Using Kickstarter and Patreon to grow

16:40 Lessons from crowdfunding and community building

19:25 Overcoming self-doubt and imposter syndrome

21:30 Scaling production without losing the creative spark

24:15 Why conventions matter for artists and makers

27:50 The importance of customer loyalty and trust

30:05 Advice for creatives wanting to start their own business

33:20 Defining success on your own terms

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

Jess Goldsmith didn’t wait for someone to tell her she was an artist. She decided she was one and went all in. With no formal art school training, she built a thriving creative career from the ground up, working as an art director, illustrator, and the founder of both Chick of All Trades and Women of Type. Her story is proof that you can start with nothing but determination, sharpen your skills along the way, and create opportunities that didn’t exist before. We explore how she navigated her early freelance days, landed her first clients, and built a community that champions women in design. Jess shares what it’s like to balance business strategy with creative passion, why mental health advocacy matters in the creative industry, and how resilience plays a role in every success story. For anyone building a freelance design business, growing as a creative entrepreneur, or looking to make their mark in the art world, this conversation is full of real-world advice, inspiration, and proof that you can define success on your own terms.

Chapters

00:00 Claiming the title of artist

02:15 Starting without a formal art school path

04:30 The leap into freelance design

06:05 Lessons from early client projects

08:40 Launching Chick of All Trades

10:15 Building the Women of Type community

12:50 Balancing creativity and business strategy

15:20 Advocating for mental health in the design world

17:45 How resilience shapes creative careers

20:10 Collaborations and dream clients

22:30 Advice for aspiring freelance designers

24:15 Creating work you want to be hired for

26:00 Staying inspired and avoiding burnout

28:40 Defining success on your own terms

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

Kristy Dinsmoor knows the power of second chances. As the founder of the Prisoner Reentry Network, she’s dedicated her life to helping people successfully transition back into society after incarceration. From navigating the stigma and logistical hurdles of reentry to creating programs that provide real support, Kristy has seen firsthand how guidance, resources, and human connection can change the trajectory of someone’s life. Her journey didn’t start in a boardroom. It began with a deep desire to make a tangible difference. Over the years, she’s worked alongside individuals, families, and community partners to address the complex realities of the justice system. We talk about what reentry really looks like, the gaps in existing support, and why sustainable change requires listening to the people directly impacted.

Kristy’s story is a reminder that creating a more just and compassionate world is possible when we commit to action. Whether you’re passionate about criminal justice reform, curious about nonprofit leadership, or simply want to hear a story of resilience and purpose, this conversation will leave you inspired and ready to think differently about second chances.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Kristy Dinsmoor

01:15 Founding the Prisoner Reentry Network

03:05 The realities of prisoner reentry in the U.S.

05:20 Overcoming stigma after incarceration

07:45 Essential resources for successful reentry

10:10 Building trust with justice-impacted communities

12:25 Collaborating with nonprofits and local agencies

15:00 Common challenges for returning citizens

17:15 Policy changes that could improve reentry outcomes

19:30 Stories of transformation and hope

21:40 Volunteer and mentorship opportunities

23:15 Addressing housing and employment barriers

25:05 Why community support is critical

27:20 Lessons learned from leading a reentry nonprofit

29:10 How to get involved with Prisoner Reentry Network

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