She was told she couldn’t lead. Now she coaches leaders.

In this powerful episode of the Hero Up Podcast, I sit down with leadership coach Monika Malan, founder of She Leads Boldly, to discuss how women can step into leadership with confidence, without burning out or compromising their values.

With over 18 years in corporate leadership, Monika has seen it all: imposter syndrome, gender bias, toxic cultures, and self-doubt. She’s lived it, led through it, and now she’s on a mission to help other women rise on their own terms.

In this conversation, we cover:
How to overcome self-doubt and find your voice as a female leader

• Why EQ is the secret edge in male-dominated industries
• The importance of aligning your career with your personal values
• Setting boundaries that protect your sanity and your team
• The impact of cycle-based leadership (yes, really)
• What to do when you’re working somewhere that doesn’t “get” you
• How parenting made her a better leader

Whether you're new to leadership or coaching others yourself, this episode is packed with insight, real talk, and practical wisdom.

Takeaways

• Mentorship is crucial for developing future leaders.
• Women often face unique challenges in leadership roles.
• Company culture significantly impacts leadership effectiveness.
• Aligning personal values with corporate values is essential for job satisfaction.
• Setting boundaries is vital to prevent burnout.
• Empowering others can enhance your own leadership skills.
• Imposter syndrome is a common struggle for many leaders.
• Parenting can teach valuable lessons about leadership.
• Women should support each other in their leadership journeys.
• Self-care is important for effective leadership.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background

04:13 Leadership Journey and Mentorship

06:37 Navigating Challenges in IT Leadership

09:09 Company Culture and Gender Dynamics

11:42 Difficult Decisions and Leadership Mistakes

13:39 Coaching Philosophy and Supporting Women

16:18 Imposter Syndrome and Self-Doubt

18:39 Aligning Values with Career Choices

21:23 The Importance of Emotional Intelligence

24:00 Conclusion and Future Aspirations

36:49 Revolutionary Insights on Women's Health and Leadership

40:26 Setting Boundaries to Prevent Burnout

44:23 Balancing Career and Family Responsibilities

50:39 Lessons in Patience and Empowerment from Parenting

54:59 Navigating Corporate Values and Personal Integrity

59:27 Ideal Clients and the Ripple Effect of Coaching

01:01:16 Valuable Lessons from Mentees

01:05:22 Advice to My Younger Self

01:08:10 Being a Hero to Young Women

Want to connect with Monika?

Website: https://www.sheleadsboldly.com
Take her free quiz: https://www.sheleadsboldly.com/quiz
Follow Monika on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/monikamalan

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#SheLeadsBoldly  #WomenInLeadership  #LeadershipCoach  
#ConfidenceForWomen  #OvercomingSelfDoubt  #FemaleEntrepreneur  
#WorkingMoms  #EmpoweredWomen  #EmotionalIntelligence #LeadershipDevelopment  #WomenInTech  #HeroUpPodcast 

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Thank you for listening! If you found value in this episode, please comment, like and subscribe depending what platform you're on. And if you have requests for guests, send me a message. - Tony Stark

In this episode of The Hero Up Podcast, Tony Stark Policci sits down with Jonathan Mast — founder of White Beard Strategies and one of the most value-driven voices in AI today.

They reveal 6 powerful (and under-the-radar) truths about how AI is transforming business, marketing, faith, and personal growth — without losing your soul, your voice, or your purpose.

✅ How to use AI as a tool to amplify your expertise (not replace it)
✅ The real ethical dilemmas that no one wants to admit
✅ The #1 mistake small businesses make when adopting AI
✅ Why faith, integrity, and failure still matter in the AI era
✅ A simple strategy to save 30+ minutes every day using AI
✅ How neurodivergent entrepreneurs can thrive with the right tools

Whether you're an entrepreneur, marketer, coach, or creator — this episode will challenge you to think bigger, go deeper, and use AI with purpose.

🔗 Connect with Jonathan: https://jonathanmast.com/linktree
🎙️ More Tony Stark: https://www.tonystark.vip/

Want to use AI to grow your business? 12 of the top connection, marketing and AI experts show you how in this self-paced AI Masterclass
https://aibusinessgrowthmasterclass.com/

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Thank you for listening! If you found value in this episode, please comment, like and subscribe depending what platform you're on. And if you have requests for guests, send me a message. - Tony Stark

In this powerful episode of Hero Up with Tony Stark Policci, I sit down with Katey McPherson, a nationally recognized advocate for youth mental health, TEDx speaker, and expert in internet safety. Katey has spent decades working with schools, parents, and law enforcement to protect children from the hidden dangers of technology, mental health struggles, and the rising threats to today’s youth. 

Katey shares her journey from working as a school administrator to her role with B.A.R.K., an AI-powered app that helps keep kids safe online. We dive deep into the realities of parenting in the digital age, the misconceptions parents have about their children's mental health, and practical strategies to foster open communication, empathy, and presence in kids' lives. If you're a parent, educator, or just someone who cares about the well-being of young people, this episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable tips.

What We Cover in This Episode:

✅ The Illusion of "Not My Kid" – Why most parents are blind to what’s really happening in their children’s lives
✅ The Digital Wild West – How predators, explicit content, and peer pressure invade kids’ screens daily
✅ Why Kids Don’t Tell Their Parents the Truth – The breakdown of trust and what to do about it
✅ The "Five-Year Rule" – When and how to start critical conversations with your kids
✅ The Power of Connection – How to make sure your child feels seen, heard, and loved every single day
✅ Tech Solutions That Help Parents – How AI tools like B.A.R.K. are helping prevent tragedy
✅ The Role of Schools & Educators – What teachers are up against and how parents can step up

PLUS:

- How an app called B.A.R.K. helps protect kids from online dangers
- The biggest misconceptions parents have about their children's mental health
- Why technology is both a connector and an isolator for youth
- How to foster open communication and empathy with kids
- Practical tips for supporting youth mental health
- Why understanding brain development is key to effective parenting
- The importance of community involvement in raising resilient kids
- Overcoming barriers to accessing mental health resources
- Innovations in tech that support youth well-being

And a Shocking Truth: The average age of first exposure to pornography is eight years old, and sexting begins at eleven. If you think your child is safe just because you raised them right, think again.

Katie’s Game-Changing Parenting Hacks:

• The Central Charging Station Rule – A simple way to reclaim family time
• The ‘Mayor of Your 5-Mile Radius’ Mindset – How small actions create big change
• The "WIGGY" Method – A powerful way to actually hear your kid

If you’re a parent, educator, or anyone who cares about the well-being of today’s youth, this is an episode you cannot afford to miss.

Connect with Katey:

• Tedx: How to Be the Mayor of Your 5-Mile Radius | Katey McPherson | TEDxGilbert
  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kateymcph/about/ 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katey-mcpherson-04396a50 
• Bark: https://www.bark.us/

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Thank you for listening! If you found value in this episode, please comment, like and subscribe depending what platform you're on. And if you have requests for guests, send me a message. - Tony Stark

Get ready to discover the untold story of the modern-day Texas outlaw, Bob Leach. In this engaging conversation, Author Pepper Anne shares her incredible journey from a curious child in Texas to uncovering family secrets that led her to write 'The Notorious Texas Swindler.' 

She walks us through her process of capturing the unbelievable true story of Bob Leach, a modern-day desperado whose criminal escapades rival the legends of the Wild West. From cattle rustling and con games to a daring jailbreak that earned him and his crew the infamous title “The Grayson County Five,” Leach’s life was a whirlwind of crime, blackmail, and evasion.

This gripping interview explores:
🔸 The notorious “party ranch” blackmail scheme raking in millions
🔸 A statewide chase, dramatic hostage situation, and shootout
🔸 Secrets, scandals, and the shocking revelations that could reopen old cases

Join Tony Stark as he and Pepper Anne unravel the saga of one of Texas’ most wanted men and uncover how his story echoes the outlaws of the 1800s while being steeped in modern-day crime.

📚 Want to learn more? Check out Pepper Anne’s book, The Notorious Texas Swindler: The Mastermind Behind the Grayson County Five, and discover the full story of Bob Leach’s infamous reign.

https://www.pepperanneauthor.com/

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Thank you for listening! If you found value in this episode, please comment, like and subscribe depending what platform you're on. And if you have requests for guests, send me a message. - Tony Stark

Join me as I engage in a thought-provoking discussion with Mark Fournier, a life coach and filmmaker. Together, we explore themes of happiness, fulfillment, and the power of mindset. This episode is packed with insights, personal stories, and actionable advice to help you unlock your true potential.

Inside This Unmissable Episode:

• Mark Fournier's journey in finding happiness and fulfillment.
• The impact of a mindset of unlimited possibilities.
• The importance of thoughts and creating balance in life.
• Insights into Mark's filmmaking journey and Emmy wins.
• Overcoming dark moments and personal growth.
• Self-acceptance and the power of an opportunity mindset.
• The role of Omni Coach in accessing historical wisdom.
• The importance of emotional intelligence and relationships.
• Exploring plant medicines and human resilience.
• Evolving consciousness to keep pace with technology.

This episode isn’t just a conversation; it’s a masterclass in navigating life’s challenges, building resilience, and finding fulfillment. Whether you’re striving for personal growth, overcoming obstacles, or seeking inspiration, Marc Fournier’s journey and insights will resonate deeply.

Connect with Mark:

• Website: https://thelimitlesscoach.com/home/ : 
• Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@markfournierpresents : 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/markfournierpresents/ 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markfournierpresents/# 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-fournier-a8294613 
• Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@MarkFournierPresents/shorts 

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Support the show

Thank you for listening! If you found value in this episode, please comment, like and subscribe depending what platform you're on. And if you have requests for guests, send me a message. - Tony Stark

Discover a story that defies the odds as Risa August dives into her powerful transformation from battling a hidden illness to embracing a whole new self. In this episode, we explore Risa’s raw and unfiltered path through grit, endurance, and self-acceptance. 

With a past that reads like an adventure novel, Risa takes us through her athletic achievements, health struggles, and the moment her life changed with a long-overdue diagnosis. If you've ever wondered what it truly takes to turn struggle into strength, you won’t want to miss this.

Inside This Unmissable Episode:

• Born to Defy: How Risa’s adventurous childhood and compassionate spirit became the bedrock of her resilience.
• A Decade of Discovery: Risa’s transformative years in fitness and wilderness guiding, pushing limits, and finding her passions.
• From Triathlons to Ironman: The journey that began with a triathlon and led Risa to conquer one of the toughest endurance feats.
• Health Battles Ignored: The health warning signs doctors dismissed and the resilience that kept Risa fighting for answers.
• The Shocking Diagnosis: How Risa’s persistence led to an acromegaly diagnosis, revealing a hidden pituitary tumor and changing everything.
• Redefining Identity: Risa’s journey through recovery, self-perception, and redefining who she is after a life-altering health crisis.
• Family and Freedom: Insights into how family dynamics shaped her self-image and what it took for Risa to reclaim her freedom.
• From ‘Bucket List’ to ‘Fk It’ List**: Risa’s liberating mindset shifts to live on her own terms, making fear-based goals a thing of the past.
• Courage to Change: The powerful role of Gestalt therapy and self-growth in letting go of past identities and embracing a new one.
• Inspiration to Empower: Risa’s strategies for overcoming limiting beliefs, daring to dream bigger, and inspiring others to live fully.

Dive into Risa’s world for an empowering, candid conversation on resilience, redefining self, and the courage to embrace life’s twists and turns. Tune in—you’ll walk away with a newfound appreciation for life’s unpredictable journey.

Connect with Risa:

• Website/s: https://www.risaaugust.com/ 
• Book: "The Road Unpaved - Border to Border With a Bike and a Brain Tumor"
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/risaunleashed
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/risaunleashed/ 

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Support the show

Thank you for listening! If you found value in this episode, please comment, like and subscribe depending what platform you're on. And if you have requests for guests, send me a message. - Tony Stark

Join me for an insightful conversation with Richard Weiler, CEO and founder of Market Leap, as he shares his journey from door-to-door sales to becoming a marketing expert. In this episode, Richard reveals how to build authentic business relationships and navigate the ever-changing world of marketing.

Discover the evolution of marketing strategies, from the decline of traditional methods like the Yellow Pages to the rise of digital marketing. Richard emphasizes the power of hybrid marketing approaches and the crucial role of authenticity in business growth. Learn why following up with connections is key to success and how to use social media effectively while staying true to yourself.

This episode offers practical advice for entrepreneurs looking to grow their businesses. Richard shares strategies for mastering SEO, attracting the right clients, and most importantly, overcoming criticism with resilience. Whether you're a seasoned business owner or just starting out, you'll find valuable insights on rapid business growth and leaving a lasting legacy.

Key Topics You Don’t Want to Miss:

• Richard Weiler's journey: From door-to-door sales to marketing success
• The shift from traditional to digital marketing strategies
• Hybrid marketing: Combining online and offline approaches
• Building authentic relationships and the importance of follow-up
• Using authenticity to attract the right audience
• Leveraging public speaking and social media for business growth
• SEO mastery: Understanding what Google wants
• Turning criticism into fuel for long-term success

Tune in to learn from Richard's wealth of experience and gain actionable insights for your own business success. Don't forget to subscribe to Hero Up for more inspiring conversations with industry leaders!

Connect with Richard:

• Website/s: https://www.marketleap.biz/ 
• Book: https://www.guerrillaconnector.com/ 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RichardWeiler1/ 

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Support the show

Thank you for listening! If you found value in this episode, please comment, like and subscribe depending what platform you're on. And if you have requests for guests, send me a message. - Tony Stark

In this powerful episode, Barbara Applegate, geriatric care expert and author of the "Amazon bestseller A Compassionate Journey: The Definitive Guide to Providing Effective, Loving Care for Your Aging Parent, "shares her deep expertise and personal insights on navigating the challenges of elder care.

Discover what it takes to care for aging loved ones while maintaining emotional balance, financial stability, and meaningful relationships. With the “silver tsunami” of aging baby boomers fast approaching, Barbara delivers actionable strategies to help caregivers manage the overwhelming responsibilities ahead.

Barbara is offering a FREE Download of the first chapter of  her book "A Compassionate Journey" so the general populace can see precisely what the book contains and how it will benefit them.
- A Compassionate Journey Book:http://acompassionatejourney.com/

Key Topics You Don’t Want to Miss:

🚀 Silver Tsunami & Its Impact: How the rapid growth of the elderly population affects caregivers and society.
💡 Navigating Challenges: Insights into the emotional, financial, and logistical hurdles caregivers face today.
❤️ Compassionate Care: How empathy strengthens family bonds and transforms the caregiving experience.
🏡 Community Support: The vital role neighbors, friends, and local resources play in relieving caregiver stress.
📑 Financial & Legal Planning: The importance of clear planning and documentation to avoid future crises.
🛡 Combating Stereotypes: Shifting perspectives on aging to foster respect and better care for seniors.

Whether you’re a current caregiver or preparing for what’s ahead, Barbara’s expert advice provides practical solutions and inspiration to help you thrive through this important journey.

Connect with Barbara:
- Website/s: http://ageconsultants.com/ 

Barbara is offering a FREE Download of the first chapter of  her book "A Compassionate Journey" so the general populace can see precisely what the book contains and how it will benefit them. 

- A Compassionate Journey Book:http://acompassionatejourney.com/

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Support the show

Thank you for listening! If you found value in this episode, please comment, like and subscribe depending what platform you're on. And if you have requests for guests, send me a message. - Tony Stark

In this episode of Hero Up, I have a great conversation with Nick Loise, an experienced sales executive and entrepreneur, as we explore the changing landscape of marketing and sales. Nick shares the powerful lessons he learned from working alongside marketing guru Dan Kennedy, with a focus on the importance of magnetic marketing and why businesses should always be in "sales mode."

Nick also opens up about the personal side of his journey, including how health challenges have shifted his perspective on work-life balance, and the key role communication plays in building strong relationships. He’s passionate about helping the next generation of professionals, offering valuable advice on mentorship and career guidance.

Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge to boost your marketing, sales, and personal growth strategies.

Key Points Covered:

• The importance of never slowing down your marketing and sales efforts.
• How magnetic marketing helps you attract your ideal audience.
• Why investing in mentorship is crucial for young professionals.
• The value of delivering a seamless and consistent experience for customers.
• How facing health issues can help realign what truly matters in life.
• The importance of open and honest communication in maintaining strong personal and professional relationships.
• Leaving an impact on the next generation through mentorship and guidance.

Listen in as Nick Loise shares invaluable lessons on mastering sales, building strong relationships, and the importance of mentorship. Be sure to subscribe to Hero Up to stay updated on more impactful conversations with industry leaders and entrepreneurs!

Connect with Nick:

• Email: [email protected] 
• Website: www.salesperformanceteam.com  
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholasloise/ 
• Personal Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicholas.loise/ 
• Business Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/salesperformanceteam/ 
• X: @nicholasloise 
• Book Time with Nick: https://calendly.com/nloise/sales-performance-team-introductory-call 

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Support the show

Thank you for listening! If you found value in this episode, please comment, like and subscribe depending what platform you're on. And if you have requests for guests, send me a message. - Tony Stark

In this episode, I sit down with 20 year old, college student Gabby Kostiew, a true example of perseverance. Gabby shares her incredible journey of overcoming the obstacles she faced in life, particularly surrounding her soccer career and the multiple concussions she endured. From a young age, Gabby was passionate about soccer, and her transition to becoming a goalkeeper only deepened her love for the sport. However, after suffering a severe concussion during a game, Gabby's life took an unexpected turn.

She opens up about living with post-concussion syndrome, facing daily migraines, and the challenges that came with it, including difficulties with processing information and maintaining her academic performance. Despite all these hurdles, Gabby’s work ethic and determination helped her excel in school and beyond. Her story is one of resilience, and now, she’s turning her experiences into a career in special education, advocating for students with disabilities.

Gabby’s insights into overcoming personal pain, developing coping strategies, and shifting her focus after leaving soccer behind show us the power of a strong support system and a positive attitude.

Key Points Covered:

• Gabby's passion for soccer and becoming a goalkeeper.
• The severe concussion that changed her life and the impact of post-concussion syndrome.
• Coping with daily migraines and processing difficulties while staying on top of her academics.
• How a strong support system and determination helped her succeed despite the challenges.
• The emotional process of leaving soccer behind and finding new activities.
• Gabby's career in special education and her advocacy for students with disabilities.
• The importance of empathy and perseverance when facing pain and adversity.

Be sure to subscribe to Hero Up for more stories of resilience, strength, and everyday heroes who make a difference in their communities.

Connect with Gabby:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabbykostiew/ 

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Support the show

Thank you for listening! If you found value in this episode, please comment, like and subscribe depending what platform you're on. And if you have requests for guests, send me a message. - Tony Stark