This week, Allison Walsh welcomes the extraordinary Karen Keene, a visionary leader, advocate, and survivor whose story is equal parts heartbreaking and inspiring.

💡 As the founder of Athena Next Gen Orlando, Karen has empowered more than 500 women through leadership development, mentorship, and a powerful professional network. With 30 years of experience as a senior marketing executive, Karen has been recognized as Woman of the Year by both Orlando Magazine and Orange Appeal, while continuing to shape the future of women in leadership across Central Florida.

But Karen’s story goes far deeper than professional achievement. In 2020, she survived being shot four times in a devastating act of gun violence that tragically claimed the life of her husband. Through years of recovery, therapy, and advocacy, she has transformed her trauma into a movement. Today, she serves as a national fellow for Everytown for Gun Safety, raising awareness about the intersection of mental health and gun violence prevention across the country.

🎧 In this episode, you’ll hear:

• How Athena Next Gen became a life-changing program for women leaders
• The story of survival that reshaped Karen’s mission and purpose
• Lessons on resilience, courage, and advocacy after unthinkable tragedy
• Why women’s mentorship, connection, and leadership matter more than ever
• How Karen continues to create impact and inspire the next generation of women

This is not just a story of survival — it’s a story of leadership, courage, and turning tragedy into transformation.

Memorable Moments

• “We knew women wanted a safe space to pass the baton to the next generation — and that’s how Athena Next Gen was born.”
• “When somebody can hold up the mirror and help you see how incredible you are, that’s transformative.”
• “I was shot four times — and somehow, I lived. My survival became my purpose.”
• “Mental health and gun violence are intertwined. These conversations must happen in the same space.”
• “Resilience is built when you take your hardest battles and turn them into fuel to help others.”

Resources & Links

• Connect with Karen: https://athenaleadershiporlando.org/
• LinkedIn: https: //www.linkedin.com/in/karen-keene-profile2023/
• Follow Allison on Instagram: www.instagram.com/allisonwalsh
• Subscribe to the Podcast: https://pod.link/1505347834
• Learn more about AdventHealth for Women: www.AdventHealthforwomen.com
• Get involved with Be a Mindleader: http://beamindleader.com/

Connect with Allison

• Interested in working together? Fill out this form.
• www.instagram.com/allisonwalsh
• www.shebelievedbook.com
• www.allisonwalshconsulting.com
• Build Your Brand On Demand
• Download The Be Unforgettable Playbook

👉 Are you juggling parenting, perfectionism, and the pressure to “do it all”? In this inspiring episode, Keesha Scott—mom of three, co-founder of Guardian Recovery, certified parenting coach, and host of Cake for Dinner—shares how sobriety, authenticity, and resilience shaped her journey through motherhood and mental health advocacy.

Keesha's story is one of grit, grace, and growth. From navigating early sobriety to raising twins as a single mom, she found her calling in creating resources for families struggling with mental health and substance use. As co-founder of Guardian Recovery, she’s built programs that meet families where they are, ensuring individuals and families alike get the support they need. Now, with her book and podcast Cake for Dinner, Keesha is amplifying conversations around parenting, resilience, and authenticity, reminding us that perfection isn’t the goal—connection is. Her wisdom will inspire parents, professionals, and anyone who loves a comeback story.

Together, they dive into:

• The origin story of Guardian Recovery and its mission to support families through substance use and mental health challenges.
• The reality of parenting in today’s world—and why authenticity matters more than perfection.
• The inspiration behind Cake for Dinner, a podcast and book dedicated to real conversations about motherhood, recovery, and resilience.
• Lessons Keesha learned raising twins as a single mom and navigating unexpected twists in life.
• Why community, vulnerability, and support systems are essential.

✨ Whether you’re a parent navigating tough seasons, a professional in behavioral health, or someone who loves comeback stories—you’ll walk away inspired by Keesha’s resilience, humor, and authenticity.

Memorable Moments:

• “People don’t connect with perfection. They connect with real.”
• “Being sober since 2002 shaped the way I parent and the way I show up in the world.”
• “Single moms are the toughest humans on the planet.”
• “Freedom is confidence—being free to be exactly who you are.”
• “Life isn’t linear. Twists don’t mean you’re failing—they’re just part of the story.”

Resources & Links

• Connect with Keesha: https://cakefordinnerpod.com/
• Instagram: @keeshawscott
• Guardian Recovery: www.guardianrecovery.com
• Follow Allison on Instagram: www.instagram.com/allisonwalsh
• Subscribe to the Podcast: https://pod.link/1505347834
• Learn more about AdventHealth for Women: www.AdventHealthforwomen.com
• Get involved with Be a Mindleader: http://beamindleader.com/

Connect with Allison

• Interested in working together? Fill out this form.
• www.instagram.com/allisonwalsh
• www.shebelievedbook.com
• www.allisonwalshconsulting.com
• Build Your Brand On Demand
• Download The Be Unforgettable Playbook

In this powerful episode of She Believed She Could, host Allison Walsh welcomes Jaeann Ashton, Executive Director of Community Engagement for AdventHealth Central Florida. With 20 years of experience across healthcare, education, media, and nonprofit sectors, Jaeann leads efforts to connect with community partners and create sustainable programs that improve whole-person health.

Together, they discuss the findings from AdventHealth’s latest Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) and the three major priorities for the coming years:

• Mental health access for children, families, and underserved populations.
• Pregnancy and childbrith care, including expanded prenatal education, care navigation, and postpartum support.
• Social determinants of health like transportation, housing, and food security, where AdventHealth partners with 200+ nonprofits annually.

Listeners will also hear about innovative initiatives such as the Be A Mindleader campaign, youth-focused mental health access, free prenatal classes, community baby showers, and hands-on workforce development programs like Cristo Rey Orlando. This conversation is packed with lessons on community leadership, strategic partnerships, and how healthcare organizations can go beyond clinical care to truly transform lives.

🌟 Memorable Moments

• On the importance of CHNA: “Every three years, we ask our community what they need—by zip code—so we can build a plan that actually moves the needle.”
• On mental health access: “We built an urgent care model for kids in crisis because the ER isn’t where they belong.”
• On maternal care: “We’ve made all of our prenatal education classes free because access to education changes outcomes for moms and babies.”
• On community partnerships: “We don’t just write checks—we serve on boards, volunteer, and solve real problems alongside nonprofits.”
• On leadership and family: “I love bringing my kids into this work. I want them to grow up knowing the importance of giving back.”

🌟 About Jaenne Ashton:

Jaeann Ashton is a strategic community and marketing leader with 20 years of experience spanning the healthcare, media, transportation, and education industries.  

She is the Executive Director of Community Engagement for AdventHealth’s Central Florida Division, connecting with local nonprofit organizations and community leaders to improve the health of our community.  She loves building meaningful relationships and creating new programs and partnerships that help our community feel whole.  

Jaeann graduated from the University of Central Florida with a bachelor’s degree in advertising and public relations and a master’s degree in communication.  

Jaeann resides in College Park with her husband and two young children who keep her busy with all their school and extracurricular activities, but she wouldn’t have it any other way!

📌 Resources & Links

• Connect with Allison: www.allisonwalshconsulting.com
• Subscribe to the Podcast: https://pod.link/1505347834
• Learn more about AdventHealth for Women: www.AdventHealthforwomen.com
• Get involved with Be a Mindleader: http://beamindleader.com/
• https://www.facebook.com/LifeAtAdventHealthCFL/
• https://www.instagram.com/lifeatadventhealthcfl/
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/adventhealthcfl/
• https//www.linkedin.com/in/jaeann-ashton

Connect with Allison

• Interested in working together? Fill out this form.
• www.instagram.com/allisonwalsh
• www.shebelievedbook.com
• www.allisonwalshconsulting.com
• Build Your Brand On Demand
• Download The Be Unforgettable Playbook

Few women have made as profound an impact on Central Florida as Christi Ashby and Kate Slentz. As the founders of Orange Appeal Magazine and the Orlando Women’s Conference, this inspiring mother-daughter powerhouse team has spent years shining a spotlight on women leaders, local businesses, and organizations doing incredible work in the community. Their mission has always been clear: to create space where women are celebrated, supported, and seen.

In this full episode, Christi and Kate reflect on their entrepreneurial journey, the vision behind launching their magazine, and how the Orlando Women’s Conference has grown into one of the region’s most anticipated annual events. Beyond publishing and event production, they’ve embraced a bigger calling—empowering women to find their voices, grow their confidence, and step fully into leadership roles.

💡 Key Takeaways
→ How Christi and Kate built platforms that amplify women’s stories and elevate local organizations
→ The lasting impact of Orange Appeal Magazine on Central Florida’s business and philanthropic communities
→ The inspiration and mission behind the Orlando Women’s Conference
→ What it means to be legacy leaders creating ripple effects of empowerment
→ Why lifting others up is the most powerful way to lead and grow

✨ This series is proudly sponsored by AdventHealth for Women and Be a Mindleader.

💬 Memorable Moments & Quotes
🗣️ “Our goal has always been to shine a light on women and organizations making a difference.” – Christi Ashby
🗣️ “When you create a platform for women’s voices, you create change that impacts generations.” – Kate Slentz
🗣️ “The Orlando Women’s Conference is about connection, empowerment, and celebrating community.” – Christi Ashby
🗣️ “We’ve always believed that impact isn’t about us—it’s about who we can lift up.” – Kate Slentz

📌 Resources & Links

• Attend the Orlando Women's Conference
• Read Orange Appeal Magazine
• Follow Allison on Instagram: www.allisonwalshconsulting.com
• Subscribe to the Podcast: https://pod.link/1505347834
• Learn more about AdventHealth for Women: www.AdventHealthforwomen.com
• Get involved with Be a Mindleader: http://beamindleader.com/

Connect with Allison

• Interested in working together? Fill out this form.
• www.instagram.com/allisonwalsh
• www.shebelievedbook.com
• www.allisonwalshconsulting.com
• Build Your Brand On Demand
• Download The Be Unforgettable Playbook

In this Make a Difference series episode of the She Believed She Could Podcast, Allison Walsh welcomes Paris Richardson, Miss Florida 2025 and the visionary founder of C.R.O.W.N. of Health. What began as a high school project has grown into a prevention-focused initiative addressing social determinants of health through Community, Research, Outreach, Wellness, and Nutrition (C.R.O.W.N.).

Paris shares how growing up in Title I schools fueled her passion to close health gaps, how she scaled her impact through partnerships with organizations like the Boys and Girls Clubs, Blue Zones, PBS Kids, and the Jacksonville Jaguars, and why food access and health education are key to long-term equity. From authoring The Not-So-Perfect Garden Project to establishing the C.R.O.W.N. of Health Ambassador Program, her work blends evidence-based research with grassroots advocacy to create healthier communities across Florida—and soon, nationwide.

This conversation is a testament to perseverance, purpose, and the power of showing up fully for your community.

✨ This series is proudly sponsored by AdventHealth for Women and Be a Mindleader.

Memorable Moments

• “Health equity isn’t just an ideal—it’s actionable, one community at a time.”
• On starting GetRaw: “It failed the first time, but we came back stronger—and that’s how C.R.O.W.N. of Health was born.”
• “Exposure is everything—put yourself in rooms where you feel like you don’t belong. That’s where you grow.”
• On confidence: “Confidence is showing up even when you don’t feel ready—smile on your face, 110% effort.”
• “I showed up as Miss Florida before I was crowned Miss Florida. That made all the difference.”

📌 Resources & Links

• Connect with Paris: https://www.parisrichardson.com/
• Follow Allison on Instagram: www.allisonwalshconsulting.com
• Subscribe to the Podcast: https://pod.link/1505347834
• Learn more about AdventHealth for Women: www.AdventHealthforwomen.com
• Get involved with Be a Mindleader: http://beamindleader.com/

Connect with Allison

• Interested in working together? Fill out this form.
• www.instagram.com/allisonwalsh
• www.shebelievedbook.com
• www.allisonwalshconsulting.com
• Build Your Brand On Demand
• Download The Be Unforgettable Playbook

In this Make a Difference series episode of the She Believed She Could Podcast, Allison Walsh sits down with Noelle Schnacky, Miss Florida’s Teen 2025 and founder of Hope for Heart Kids, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to supporting children and families impacted by congenital heart disease (CHD). Inspired by the memory of her cousin Tyler, Noelle has turned personal heartbreak into national impact, raising awareness, funding research, and expanding hospital partnerships to improve the quality of life for heart families. She opens up about the journey of starting a nonprofit at 14, building community-driven campaigns, writing children’s books to empower families, and using her platform to inspire confidence and faith in the next generation.

Whether you’re a parent, entrepreneur, or changemaker, this episode will leave you encouraged to follow your calling, no matter your age.

✨ This series is proudly sponsored by AdventHealth for Women and Be a Mindleader.

Memorable Moments

• “I had a dream, and I knew my passion and purpose were way greater than any excuse I could come up with.”
• On building partnerships: “I started at the Chamber of Commerce—and from there, it skyrocketed.”
• A heart family’s testimony: “We’ve been reading your books every single night, and they’re helping us get through having a congenital heart defect.”
• “CHD is 60 times more common than childhood cancer, but hardly anyone talks about it.”
• “If you really want to see God move in your life, it’s the quiet place—what you’re doing in your alone time—that prepares you for where He wants you to go.”
• “Hurt people hurt people. Instead of seeing haters as attackers, I see them as people I may be able to minister to.”

📌 Resources & Links

• Connect with Noelle: Link Here
• Follow Allison on Instagram: www.allisonwalshconsulting.com
• Subscribe to the Podcast: https://pod.link/1505347834
• Learn more about AdventHealth for Women: www.AdventHealthforwomen.com
• Get involved with Be a Mindleader: http://beamindleader.com/

Connect with Allison

• Interested in working together? Fill out this form.
• www.instagram.com/allisonwalsh
• www.shebelievedbook.com
• www.allisonwalshconsulting.com
• Build Your Brand On Demand
• Download The Be Unforgettable Playbook

Welcome to the She Believed She Could™ podcast, where ambition meets purpose. In this kickoff episode of our brand-new Make a Difference series, host Allison Walsh shares the heart behind the project—spotlighting women who have transformed their passions, challenges, and gifts into lasting change.

This episode is your sign to step into your own mission. Allison walks you through 5 simple but powerful steps to begin making a difference today, even if you don’t have a big platform or perfect plan. Whether your passion is mental health advocacy, community service, entrepreneurship, or storytelling, you’ll learn how to start right where you are and lead with love.

If you’ve been feeling the pull that there’s more you’re meant to do, this conversation will give you the inspiration—and the action steps—to begin.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• How to identify the cause or issue that lights your fire
• Why starting small can still create big change
• How to use your unique strengths for greater impact
• The importance of surrounding yourself with purpose-driven people
• Why you don’t need a title to lead

Resources & Links

• Follow Allison on Instagram: www.allisonwalshconsulting.com 
• Subscribe to the Podcast: https://pod.link/1505347834
• Learn more about AdventHealth for Women: www.AdventHealthforwomen.com
• Get involved with Be a Mindleader: http://beamindleader.com/

Connect with Allison

• Interested in working together? Fill out this form.
• www.instagram.com/allisonwalsh
• www.shebelievedbook.com
• www.allisonwalshconsulting.com
• Build Your Brand On Demand
• Download The Be Unforgettable Playbook

Brianna Beatty, the powerhouse behind Palm Beach Moms, shares her journey from hospitality marketing to launching three successful online businesses—all while raising three kids. In this uplifting and strategy-packed episode, she gets real about the lessons she’s learned the hard way (including a holiday box delivery nightmare 😅) and gives us a behind-the-scenes look at the tools, habits, and low-cost marketing strategies that have kept her businesses thriving. You’ll walk away inspired, organized, and ready to grow—without burning out.

💡 What You’ll Learn:

• How a Facebook group grew into a 10,000+ member powerhouse
• The one free tool she swears by for tracking content & analytics
• Why Pinterest is non-negotiable for long-term growth
• The content calendar that keeps her consistent (and sane)
• How to grow your email list and why it’s your most valuable business asset
• Why LinkTree is killing your traffic—and what to do instead
• Her real talk on competition, motherhood, and redefining success on your own terms
   

💬 Memorable Moments

• “You don’t own your Instagram. You don’t own your TikTok. But you do own your list. That’s the gold.”
• “Every click to your website matters—Google is watching.”
• “Your time is too valuable to waste guessing. Data drives decisions. Always.”
• “There’s enough sunshine for everyone. If you have an idea, go for it—just start.”

📌 Connect with Brianna

🌐 Website: https://thepbmoms.com
📸 Instagram: @palmbeachmoms

Connect with Allison

• Interested in working together? Fill out this form.
• www.instagram.com/allisonwalsh
• www.shebelievedbook.com
• www.allisonwalshconsulting.com
• Build Your Brand On Demand
• Download The Be Unforgettable Playbook

In this milestone episode of the She Believed She Could podcast, host Allison Walsh opens up about what it was really like to go all in on her own business for the first time. Even with years of entrepreneurial experience, nothing prepared her for the unique challenges—and incredible rewards—of taking her side hustle to full-time status.

Allison shares the 10 most important lessons she learned over the past year—insights that will resonate whether you’re thinking about taking the leap, already running your business, or simply craving more freedom and fulfillment in your career. From moving forward despite fear, to hiring support before you think you’re ready, to redefining success on your own terms, these lessons are equal parts real talk and inspiration.

If you’ve been wondering whether now is the time to bet on yourself, this episode is your sign. Get ready for honest stories, actionable strategies, and the encouragement you need to trust your gut and go after the life and business you’ve been dreaming of.

💡 Memorable Moments

• "You’re never going to feel 100% ready. Courage is about moving forward anyway."
• "Hiring support isn’t just delegation—it’s amplification."
• "Don’t drag dead weight out of guilt—fail fast so you can move forward faster."
• "Your network is your net worth—nurture it without expectation."
• "Boundaries protect your energy and allow you to show up fully where it matters most."
• "A personal brand isn’t about you—it’s about the people you’re meant to serve."
• "Success might look different than you imagined—define it for yourself."
• "Confidence builds everything else, so celebrate the small wins often."
• "Your why has to be louder than your fear."
• "You are capable of so much more than you know."

Connect with Allison

• Interested in working together? Fill out this form.
• www.instagram.com/allisonwalsh
• www.shebelievedbook.com
• www.allisonwalshconsulting.com
• Build Your Brand On Demand
• Download The Be Unforgettable Playbook

In this thought-provoking episode, host Allison Walsh sits down with Alice Heiman—internationally known sales strategist and "Chief Sales Energizer"—to discuss the intersection of business growth, personal transformation, and the realities of being a high-performing woman at midlife.

Alice opens up about her journey from elementary school teacher to top-tier sales expert for CEOs of innovative companies. She dives deep into navigating leadership while caring for family, handling perimenopause, and planning strategic exits. This conversation is full of truth, strategy, and empowerment for women navigating business and life in their 40s, 50s, and beyond.

💡 Key Takeaways
→ Why women CEOs need to give themselves grace while leading and growing
→ The real story behind Alice’s shift from educator to sales strategist
→ How to build a go-to-market strategy that drives profitable growth
→ Why most CEOs hire the wrong sales leader—and how to get it right
→ Navigating menopause and major life changes while running a company
→ How energy, support systems, and intentional planning create scalable success
→ The importance of “who not how” and building the right team

🛠️ Resources & Links
🔗 Connect with Alice: LinkedIn
🌐 Website: aliceheiman.com
📚 Book Recs:

• Invisible Women by Caroline Criado Perez
• Wonderhell by Laura Gassner Otting

💬 Memorable Moments

• “Women CEOs are building companies, taking care of aging parents, supporting grown kids—and going through perimenopause. That deserves grace, not guilt.” 
• “You don’t need to wait for confidence. You already have the proof—you’ve done hard things before. You can do them again.” 
• “If you’re trying to scale from $10M to $20M, don’t hire someone who’s only managed status quo. Hire the person who knows how to grow.” 
• “Think about the whole lifecycle of your business and your life—your energy, your vision, your people. You don’t have to do it all alone.” 

Connect with Allison

• Interested in working together? Fill out this form.
• www.instagram.com/allisonwalsh
• www.shebelievedbook.com
• www.allisonwalshconsulting.com
• Build Your Brand On Demand
• Download The Be Unforgettable Playbook