In this conversation, Mandy Schell, founder of the Pacific Northwest Women's Network, shares her journey of empowering women through community and connection. She discusses the transformative power of saying yes to new opportunities, the importance of creating a welcoming space for women to connect, and the impact of her events on attendees' lives. Mandy emphasizes the shift from traditional networking to building genuine relationships and proximity, and she reflects on the challenges and lessons learned in event planning. Her insights on leadership, financial transparency, and the future of her network inspire listeners to embrace their own journeys of growth and connection.

To every woman who craves meaningful, in-person experiences — LIVE is Mandy's signature annual gathering centered on deep connection, powerful visibility, and building the rooms we all deserve! 

• Tickets to PNW LIVE 2026!  January 23, 2026  Tacoma, WA:   https://www.pnwwomensnetwork.com/tickets?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAae2tb7WFYi1iIdmSvmVagAMVtQeJ5zhvXyLGM6d6mSDTkKOM64TuvhCGJLC2w_aem_K2ioBPgimHER9oM-G1iDvg

Chapters
00:00 Empowering Women Through Community
03:02 The Catalyst for Change
06:00 Overcoming Fear and Embracing Opportunity
09:05 The Impact of Connection
11:55 Creating an Ecosystem of Support
14:58 Building Relationships and Authenticity
17:55 Lessons from the First Event
20:51 The Journey of Event Planning
23:54 The Purpose Beyond Profit
26:33 Creating Meaningful Connections
27:39 Dreams and Aspirations in Event Planning
29:20 The Joy of Dressing Up and Community
30:58 Challenges in Event Sponsorship
33:20 Strategies for Securing Sponsors
35:32 Handling Unexpected Challenges
38:36 The Importance of a Supportive Team
40:21 Evolving Membership Models
42:57 Creating Fun and Engaging Events
45:25 Empowering Women Through Strength and Leadership

Connect with Mandy: 

• Tickets to LIVE 2026! https://www.pnwwomensnetwork.com/tickets?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAae2tb7WFYi1iIdmSvmVagAMVtQeJ5zhvXyLGM6d6mSDTkKOM64TuvhCGJLC2w_aem_K2ioBPgimHER9oM-G1iDvg
• PNW Women's Network: https://www.pnwwomensnetwork.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsmandyschell/?hl=en

Connect with The Women On Top:

Follow The Women On Top Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts. Subscribe for more empowering conversations and stories!

• Website: https://thewomenontop.com/
  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewomenontop
  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewomenontoppodcast/
  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-lynn/

In this episode of The Women On Top, Valerie Lynn sits down with Dylan Jahraus, powerhouse Etsy seller, coach, and former corporate leader, for a deeply honest conversation about ambition, resilience, and building a life on your own terms.

Dylan opens up about what pushed her to walk away from the corporate path and how she turned a simple Etsy shop into a multi-seven-figure business. She shares the real challenges behind the highlight reel, the role community played in her growth, and the mindset shifts that helped her navigate doubt, burnout, and big leaps.

Together, Valerie and Dylan dig into the strategies that actually move the needle in e-commerce, from understanding customer behavior to staying ahead of trends, and why consistency still outperforms perfection. Dylan also talks about the personal “why” that fuels her, the legacy she hopes to leave for her daughters, and the quiet power of choosing flexibility, freedom, and self-trust.

This episode is equal parts tactical and deeply human, offering practical steps for aspiring entrepreneurs and heartfelt encouragement for anyone ready to chase a bigger vision.

Chapters

00:00 – The Journey Begins: From Corporate to Etsy Success
 02:53 – Building an Empire: Overcoming Challenges & Customer Relations
 05:58 – E-Commerce Explained: Strategies That Actually Work
 09:13 – Understanding Customer Needs: The Key to Longevity
 12:09 – Trends & Market Research: Staying Ahead
 14:50 – Facing Doubts: The Importance of a Strong “Why”
 18:03 – Creating a Legacy: Personal Stories & Motivations
 20:52 – The Power of Flexibility: Owning Your Time
 23:58 – Saturation & Strategy: Standing Out in a Crowded Market
 26:04 – The Power of Consistency
 27:40 – Practical Strategies for Sustainable Growth
 30:16 – Understanding Digital Products
 31:22 – Aligning Skills With Your Business Ideas
 33:17 – Finding Fulfillment in Entrepreneurship
 36:11 – Building Confidence Through Action
 37:38 – How Long It Really Takes to See Success on Etsy
 39:13 – Learning From Mentors
 40:43 – Balancing Business & Family
 43:04 – Dreaming Bigger: Future Aspirations & Growth

Connect with Dylan:  

The Ultimate Etsy Course: https://dylanjahraus.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dylanjahraus/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeO8Gmc2B-3G2fgcFnRR4Xw Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/etsy-seller-success-tips-for-starting-growing-and/id1647518076

Connect with The Women On Top:

Follow The Women On Top Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts. Subscribe for more empowering conversations and stories!

• Website: https://thewomenontop.com/
  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewomenontop
  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewomenontoppodcast/
  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-lynn/

Episode Description:
What happens when you accidentally go sober for a year—and discover it’s about so much more than giving up alcohol? In this solo episode, Valerie Lynn shares her personal journey of stepping away from drinking, not as a punishment or deprivation, but as an experiment in curiosity, self-love, and playfulness.

Valerie walks us through how a small, spontaneous choice turned into a year-long exploration of habits, cravings, and personal empowerment. Along the way, she reflects on the unexpected benefits of sobriety: clarity of mind, better connection to her body, playful creativity, and the power of curiosity over restriction.

This episode isn’t about shaming drinking or claiming sobriety is the “right” path. It’s about experimenting, noticing what truly serves you, and learning how to lead your own life with intention and presence. If you’ve ever wondered whether you could let go of a habit—or simply want inspiration for living with more clarity, choice, and joy—this episode is for you.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How a small experiment with sobriety became a transformative year.
• Using curiosity and playfulness to shift habits without shame or restriction.
• How to identify what a craving or habit is really trying to give you.
• The surprising physical, mental, and emotional benefits of stepping back from alcohol.
• How lessons from sobriety can be applied to relationships, work, creativity, and personal growth.
• A fresh perspective on self-mastery, empowerment, and amplifying the good in life.

Key Takeaways:

• Sometimes what you think you need isn’t what you actually need.
• Habits are often chasing feelings—clarity, fun, relaxation—not substances themselves.
• Experimentation and curiosity are more powerful than restriction and shame.
• Leading your life comes from tuning into yourself, making conscious choices, and finding your own “buzz” through self-mastery.

Resources & Mentions:

• Mocktail inspiration and creative drink experiments
• Reflections on self-mastery, mindfulness, and curiosity as tools for life transformation

Join Valerie as she reflects on this playful, sassy, and deeply empowering year, and discover what happens when curiosity leads the way.

Connect with The Women On Top:

Follow The Women On Top Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts. Subscribe for more empowering conversations and stories!

• Website: https://thewomenontop.com/
  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewomenontop
  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewomenontoppodcast/
  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-lynn/

In this episode, Ashley Kehr shares her journey from being an accountant to a successful real estate investor. She discusses her first property experience, the importance of partnerships, and creative financing strategies. Ashley emphasizes the significance of documenting everything in property management and shares insights on investing in different markets, particularly the Midwest. She also explores the joy of both short-term rentals and long-term investments, providing valuable advice for aspiring investors, especially women in the real estate space.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Real Estate Investing Journey
02:02 Starting with the First Rental Property
05:02 Transitioning from Accounting to Full-Time Investing
08:02 Overcoming Challenges in Real Estate
12:01 Creative Financing Strategies
19:11 Navigating Risks in Real Estate Investments
24:06 Evaluating Property Investments for Long-Term Gains
28:34 Investing with Intention: The Condo Dilemma
30:12 Exploring Out-of-State Investments
32:55 The Art of Rehabbing Properties
37:40 Balancing Short-Term and Long-Term Rentals
39:30 Navigating HOAs and Property Management
42:28 Documenting Everything: A Key to Success
46:51 Future Goals: Live-In Flips and Portfolio Growth
50:11 Final Reflections: Work Hard, Enjoy Life

Connect with Ashley:
Website: https://www.ashleykehr.com/
Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/real-estate-rookie/id1499646507
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wealthfromrentals
Book: https://www.amazon.com/Real-Estate-Rookie-First-Investment/dp/1947200844
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/RealEstateRookie

Connect with The Women On Top:

Follow The Women On Top Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts. Subscribe for more empowering conversations and stories!

• Website: https://thewomenontop.com/
  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewomenontop
  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewomenontoppodcast/
  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-lynn/

In this enlightening conversation, Jana Danielson, a certified Pilates instructor and pelvic floor expert, discusses the intricate connections between various aspects of health, particularly focusing on women's wellness. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the pelvic floor, the role of diaphragmatic breathing, and practical steps to reclaim health and vitality. The introduction of the Cooch Ball as a tool for pelvic floor health highlights innovative approaches to fitness and wellness. Jana's personal journey and insights provide a powerful message of empowerment and self-advocacy in health.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Health and Wellness
01:48 The Connection Between Feet and Pelvic Floor
05:15 Reclaiming Power Over Health
09:17 Understanding the Pelvic Floor
14:54 The Importance of Diaphragmatic Breathing
22:34 Practical Steps for Health Improvement
27:16 The Cooch Ball: A Revolutionary Tool
39:06 Transformative Changes Through Pelvic Floor Health
43:09 The Sacred Women's Guide to Blooming Better
49:04 Final Reflections and Takeaways

Connect with Jana:
Website: https://janadanielson.com/
Jana's Book: https://www.amazon.com/SACRED-WOMANS-GUIDE-BLOOMING-BETTER-ebook/dp/B0DJY682DX/ref=sr_1_1?crid=C0SL74IJI2PN&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.VpE10buZ3wp3-ZlKRD7jPVaji6QHxMHHCJWr-KUeL3vGjHj071QN20LucGBJIEps.OGNdPVqgccjUdD_-Jpt0cLaU9g-ePqZi5v4pWjI2OVQ&dib_tag=se&keywords=sacred+woman%27s+guide+to+blooming+better&qid=1733154734&sprefix=the+sacred+womans+%2Caps%2C204&sr=8-1
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jana.danielson/
Links: https://pillar.io/janadanielson

Order Cooch Ball: https://www.amazon.com/Exercise-Products-Trainer-Exerciser-Strengthening/dp/B0BTP37WK9#:~:text=By%20using%20the%20Cooch%20Ball,strengthening%20a%20loose%20pelvic%20floor.

Do us a favor and please 'like' and subscribe to this channel!  It does more for us than you'll know.  
Find more of The Women On Top: www.thewomenontop.com and make sure you follow Jana for all of your health tips!

Thank you for what you do.  Your support means the world!

Connect with The Women On Top:

Follow The Women On Top Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts. Subscribe for more empowering conversations and stories!

• Website: https://thewomenontop.com/
  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewomenontop
  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewomenontoppodcast/
  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-lynn/

In this solo episode, Valerie Lynn shares a personal story about a challenging podcast recording experience that taught her a valuable lesson about the importance of knowing when to pause instead of pushing through difficulties. She reflects on how the pressure to maintain professionalism can lead to distractions and a lack of presence, ultimately robbing both the host and guest of a meaningful conversation. Valerie emphasizes that true leadership involves recognizing when to stop and reassess rather than forcing through challenges out of fear or ego.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction: A Lesson in Pushing Through
02:55 The Consequences of Pushing Through
06:13 Recognizing the Need to Pause
08:52 The Fear Behind Pushing Through
12:09 Empowerment Through Reflection

Connect with The Women On Top:

Follow The Women On Top Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts. Subscribe for more empowering conversations and stories!

• Website: https://thewomenontop.com/
  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewomenontop
  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewomenontoppodcast/
  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-lynn/

What happens when you build a wildly successful company, raise millions, and create a nationally recognized community—only to realize you’ve lost yourself in the hustle?

In this episode of The Women On Top, Valerie Lynn sits down with Katya Libin—former co-founder of HeyMama and now the founder of Jadeva—for an honest, soul-stirring conversation about leadership, burnout, and feminine power.

Katya takes us behind the scenes of her journey: from the relentless pace of startup life and single motherhood to discovering the divine feminine energy that transformed how she leads, lives, and builds community. Together, we explore how women can step out of hustle culture and into a new paradigm of leadership rooted in authenticity, ease, and purpose.

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a leader, or a woman craving deeper connection and alignment, Katya’s story will inspire you to redefine success on your own terms and lead from your essence.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Katya Libin and Her Journey
05:12 Lessons from Hey Mama: Leadership and Growth
09:59 The Shift to Feminine Leadership
15:00 The Birth of Judeva: A New Vision
19:58 Building Community: The Importance of Connection
25:07 The Purpose of Judeva: Empowering Women
29:57 Finding Co-Founders and Building Partnerships
35:05 Closing Reflections and Infinite Possibilities

Connect with Katya: 

***Voyage to Egypt: https://insiderexpeditions.com/jadeva/

Katya Libin & Co: https://katyalibin.com/

Jadeva: https://www.jadeva.us/new-page

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katyaslife

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katyalibin/

Connect with The Women On Top:

Follow The Women On Top Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts. Subscribe for more empowering conversations and stories!

• Website: https://thewomenontop.com/
  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewomenontop
  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewomenontoppodcast/
  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-lynn/

Meet Laur Elle — a rising indie-pop voice blending airy vocals, vivid storytelling, and lush soundscapes that invite listeners into a world of pure escapism.

What began with poems turned into songs, what started as open mics became a passion, and soon Laur Elle found herself in studios co-writing and shaping a sound that bridges the intimacy of a singer-songwriter with the bold energy of pop. 

For Laur Elle, music is more than melody — it’s medicine. With pen in hand and guitar close by, she channels her own emotions into songs designed to help others release theirs. Her tracks, described as “music for running (or driving) away from problems,” are made to soundtrack the moments when you need to breathe, feel, and just be.

Still in her early 20s, Laur Elle is quickly establishing herself as an artist to watch. And while her journey started with words, it’s her music — heartfelt, vulnerable, and vividly alive — that’s proving she’s found her calling.

In this engaging conversation, Laur Elle shares her transformative journey from being a competitive gymnast in Canada to pursuing a career in music in Los Angeles.  She reflects on the challenges of identity, the creative process of songwriting, and the importance of vulnerability in her art.  Laur Elle discusses her inspirations, the evolution of her music, and the lessons learned along the way, emphasizing the significance of trusting one's intuition and embracing the messiness of the creative journey.  The conversation highlights the power of connection and the impact of sharing one's story with others, especially for women in the creative industry.

Chapters
00:00 From Gymnastics to Music: A Journey of Transformation
03:04 Exploring Identity and Artistic Expression
05:46 The Creative Process: Writing Songs and Finding Inspiration
09:01 Navigating Vulnerability and Connection in Music
11:59 Influences and Inspirations: Shaping the Artist's Sound
14:54 The Evolution of Music: New Projects and Self-Discovery
17:51 Overcoming Doubts: The Reality of Being an Artist
21:04 Legacy and Impact: Inspiring Future Generations
24:03 Trusting Your Intuition: Advice for Creatives
26:52 Embracing the Messiness of the Creative Journey
30:02 Memorable Moments: The Power of Connection
32:58 Lessons Learned: Advice from the Journey
35:57 The Importance of Vulnerability in Art
38:54 Final Thoughts: Trusting Yourself and Your Voice

Connect with Laur Elle:

• Website: https://laurellemusic.com/
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5DQPhXyByXuh4DxLjHm7UH?si=oHE1SzouSFSz63Dx7H0XSw&nd=1
• Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/laur-elle/1113062860
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamlaur.elle/
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@laur.elle
• YouTube: ht

Connect with The Women On Top:

Follow The Women On Top Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts. Subscribe for more empowering conversations and stories!

• Website: https://thewomenontop.com/
  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewomenontop
  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewomenontoppodcast/
  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-lynn/

Meet Laur Elle — a rising indie-pop voice blending airy vocals, vivid storytelling, and lush soundscapes that invite listeners into a world of pure escapism.

Born in Oklahoma and raised in Alberta, Canada, Laur Elle grew up balancing two worlds: the discipline of sport and the magic of words. As the daughter of a hockey coach and a former internationally competitive gymnast for Team Canada, she carried the focus of an athlete into her artistry. But it was poetry — and eventually music — where she unlocked her true voice.

What began with poems turned into songs, what started as open mics became a passion, and soon Laur Elle found herself in studios co-writing and shaping a sound that bridges the intimacy of a singer-songwriter with the bold energy of pop. Drawing inspiration from storytellers like Taylor Swift, the playful edge of The 1975, and the raw honesty of artists like Halsey and Dominic Fike, she’s carved out a sound that feels both nostalgic and new — dreamy yet grounded, escapist yet real.

For Laur Elle, music is more than melody — it’s medicine. With pen in hand and guitar close by, she channels her own emotions into songs designed to help others release theirs. Her tracks, described as “music for running (or driving) away from problems,” are made to soundtrack the moments when you need to breathe, feel, and just be.

Still in her early 20s, Laur Elle is quickly establishing herself as an artist to watch. And while her journey started with words, it’s her music — heartfelt, vulnerable, and vividly alive — that’s proving she’s found her calling.

In this engaging conversation, Laur Elle shares her transformative journey from being a competitive gymnast in Canada to pursuing a career in music in Los Angeles.  She reflects on the challenges of identity, the creative process of songwriting, and the importance of vulnerability in her art.  Laur Elle discusses her inspirations, the evolution of her music, and the lessons learned along the way, emphasizing the significance of trusting one's intuition and embracing the messiness of the creative journey.  The conversation highlights the power of connection and the impact of sharing one's story with others, especially for women in the creative industry.

Chapters
00:00 From Gymnastics to Music: A Journey of Transformation
03:04 Exploring Identity and Artistic Expression
05:46 The Creative Process: Writing Songs and Finding Inspiration
09:01 Navigating Vulnerability and Connection in Music
11:59 Influences and Inspirations: Shaping the Artist's Sound
14:54 The Evolution of Music: New Projects and Self-Discovery
17:51 Overcoming Doubts: The Reality of Being an Artist
21:04 Legacy and Impact: Inspiring Future Generations
24:03 Trusting Your Intuition: Advice for Creatives
26:52 Embracing the Messiness of the Creative Journey
30:02 Memorable Moments: The Power of Connection
32:58 Lessons Learned: Advice from the Journey
35:57 The Importance of Vulnerability in Art
38:54 Final Thoughts: Trusting Yourself and Your Voice

Connect with Laur Elle:

Website: https://laurellemusic.com/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5DQPhXyByXuh4DxLjHm7UH?si=oHE1SzouSFSz63Dx7H0XSw&nd=1
Apple Music:

Connect with The Women On Top:

Follow The Women On Top Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts. Subscribe for more empowering conversations and stories!

• Website: https://thewomenontop.com/
  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/ ⁨@thewomenontop⁩
  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewomenontoppodcast/
  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-lynn/

Episode Summary:
What does it really mean to be a leader?  For most of my career, I thought leadership belonged to the people with big titles—the managers, VPs, and executives. But then something unexpected happened. A women’s resource group changed everything I thought I knew about leadership, community, and myself.

In this solo episode, I’m sharing the story of how one idea—hosting a simple coffee chat—grew into a thriving series, a leadership role I never planned on, and ultimately, a completely new perspective on what leadership actually is. Spoiler: it’s not about titles, job descriptions, or polished perfection. It’s about courage, connection, and love.

What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
💡 How the pandemic nudged me into creating the space I was secretly craving
☕ The behind-the-scenes of starting the first women’s coffee chat
👩‍💼 Why stepping into leadership wasn’t about chasing a title, but following a spark
❤️ The surprising lessons about courage, connection, and messy, human leadership
📣 An invitation to reflect on the leaders who have shaped you

Takeaway:
Leadership isn’t something you wait to be handed—it’s something you step into by listening, loving, and creating what you wish existed. And chances are, you’re already leading more than you realize.

Let’s Connect:
I’d love to hear your definition of leadership or a moment when someone’s courage shifted something for you!

Connect with The Women On Top:

Follow The Women On Top Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts. Subscribe for more empowering conversations and stories!

• Website: https://thewomenontop.com/
  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewomenontop
  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewomenontoppodcast/
  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-lynn/