What if the secret to thriving in a male-dominated field isn’t louder toughness, but smarter design—of your leadership style and your whole life? That’s the throughline of our conversation with author and mechanical engineer Josee Tremblay, who turned three decades in STEM into a clear playbook for women building influence, authority, and a sustainable home base.

We start with the real-world frictions: job sites without women’s bathrooms, PPE that doesn’t fit, and subtle judgment that nicks confidence. Josee doesn’t romanticize it, but she doesn’t flinch either. She breaks down how copying “bro energy” often backfires and why the research points to a different lever for women in leadership: pair rock-solid competency with visible warmth.

Josee also speaks on the practices that make dual-career ambition possible—aligned values with your partner, honest tradeoffs, and planning goals. She shares the tough call to leave a first marriage that couldn’t support global work, the power of choosing a growth-aligned partner, and the everyday logistics that actually move mountains.

If you’re navigating STEM, leadership, or any non-traditional role, you’ll leave with tactics you can use today. Want more? Grab Josee Tremblay's book, "Us And Yet And Yet", and visit http://www.usandyet.com to join her mailing list. If this conversation helps you think braver about your path, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review—it helps more everyday warriors find us.

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Music by Deli Rowe: "Space to Move"
Logo by Kaylin Talley

Ever wonder where to draw the line between romantic pursuit and something more alarming? This raw, unfiltered episode tackles a situation that started with a casual mention on our podcast and spiraled into something much more concerning.

When Lyanette received an unexpected email from someone Shiney had gone on just one date with months ago, we decided to address it head-on. 

The conversation dives deep into the misconceptions about romance versus stalking, with powerful insights about personal boundaries and why they matter. We explore how seemingly innocent information shared during early dating—your city, your schedule, even your first name—can be pieced together by someone determined to find you. Lyanette's 24-year-old daughter, Kaylin, joins us midway through, offering a younger generation's perspective that's refreshingly direct: rejection is part of dating, and nobody is entitled to your attention after one date.

Most powerfully, we reclaim the narrative around Shiney's happiness. The emailer had attempted to take credit for her "glow," but as she eloquently explains, "My glow is not from any person. I own my glow. I'm glowing and joyful and happy because I choose that." It's a reminder that our joy comes from within, not from external validation or relationships.

Whether you're newly single after years in a relationship or navigating the complexities of modern dating, this conversation offers crucial insights about protecting yourself while staying open to genuine connection. Share your thoughts or your own dating safety tips with us at [email protected]—just know your email might inspire our next episode!

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Music by Deli Rowe: "Space to Move"
Logo by Kaylin Talley

After a summer break, the Virago 24/7 women reunite for a raw, unfiltered conversation about personal transformation. This episode strips away our usual format to make space for honest sharing about the journeys we've been on these past few months.

Briana bravely opens up about her mental health struggles, revealing how she's navigating OCD in ways many don't understand. Beyond the stereotypical cleaning compulsions, she shares the terrifying intrusive thoughts that led her to seek professional help. "If I don't stop the microwave at two seconds, my kids are going to die," she explains, giving listeners a window into the anxiety that drove her to finally try medication. Her powerful realization that "getting sober gave me a sound mind to face all my problems" rather than eliminating them offers wisdom for anyone on a healing journey.

Meanwhile, Shiney reveals her completed divorce and the cultural stigma she's fighting while rediscovering joy. Her words "I'm the happiest I've been in a really long time" challenge conventional wisdom about staying in unhappy marriages. The conversation explores how children truly thrive when they see their parents living authentically happy lives, not when parents remain in tension-filled homes "for the kids."

As the discussion turns to dating after divorce, we share hilarious and horrifying stories about dating apps, mysterious workplace crushes, and the vulnerability of opening your heart after heartbreak. Our consensus? Self-growth comes first, and what's meant to be will find you when you're ready.

This back-to-school special reminds us that growth isn't just for students – it's for everyday warriors committed to evolving rather than merely existing in patterns. Are you in the same place you were a year ago? If so, perhaps it's time for change. Subscribe now to join our community of women supporting each other through life's messy, beautiful transformations.

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Go to my website http://www.virago247.net for all things Virago 24/7
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Music by Deli Rowe: "Space to Move"
Logo by Kaylin Talley

Jessica's story is a testament to love's transformative power in the face of deeply entrenched cultural barriers. As a South Asian malayalee woman raised in a traditional household where arranged marriages are the norm, falling in love with a Black man meant choosing a path her family had never imagined for her.

When she first told her parents about JP, their response was swift and absolute—they refused to meet him, regardless of his impressive education, career success, and character. The painful conversations that followed tested Jessica's resolve, pushing her to seek therapy with a South Asian counselor who understood the complex cultural dynamics at play. Armed with strategies to maintain boundaries and stay true to herself, Jessica navigated the excruciating tension between honoring her parents and honoring her heart.

This episode explores the courage it takes to challenge generational patterns, the power of maintaining boundaries with love, and how sometimes the path to deeper family connection requires breaking with tradition. Whether you're navigating cultural expectations in your own relationships or simply appreciate stories of transformation and reconciliation, Jessica's journey offers both inspiration and practical wisdom for standing firm in your truth while keeping your heart open to healing.

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Go to my website http://www.virago247.net for all things Virago 24/7
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Music by Deli Rowe: "Space to Move"
Logo by Kaylin Talley

We explore the powerful concept of "blooming where you're planted" and finding growth in seemingly stagnant seasons of life. This episode dives deep into how to thrive during waiting periods while preparing for future opportunities.

• Summer adventures including Vegas, Jersey Shore, and Hawaii travel highlights
• Unpacking what it truly means to "bloom where you're planted" 
• The definition includes making the most of current circumstances regardless of challenges
• Shifting perspective from waiting to preparing for your next season
• Personal story of feeling stuck as a young mother with unfulfilled career dreams
• How a mindset shift transformed a frustrating season into one of growth
• Three practical strategies for thriving while waiting: shift from waiting to preparing, move quietly with intention, focus on what's in your control
• Understanding that not every season is about movement – some are for rooting deeply
• Daily practices like mindset shifts and gratitude to help you bloom where you are

What is something you've been waiting on, and what would happen if you started showing up like it was already on its way? Connect with us on Instagram at Virago24_7 or join our Facebook group to share your journey.

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Go to my website http://www.virago247.net for all things Virago 24/7
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Music by Deli Rowe: "Space to Move"
Logo by Kaylin Talley

We ask ChatGPT to tell us uncomfortable truths about ourselves, resulting in surprisingly accurate and profound responses that leave us stunned, motivated, and ready for change. The AI's ability to "read us like a book" prompts deep discussion about how we hide behind excuses and avoid our full potential.

• ChatGPT delivers personalized, brutally honest feedback to each host
• Lyanette receives critique about playing small and lacking consistency with her podcast
• Briana confronts how she uses her children as an excuse to avoid personal growth
• Shiney faces truths about seeking external validation and using optimism as a shield
• All three hosts embrace the uncomfortable truths rather than becoming defensive
• The women discuss how motherhood often becomes an identity that limits growth
• The power of genuine compliments and supporting other women is highlighted
• Hosts commit to creating action plans based on ChatGPT's insights
• The group agrees to follow up in six months to measure their progress

Try asking ChatGPT the question yourself: "With everything you know about me, tell me uncomfortable truths I need to know and be brutally honest." Share your results with us at [email protected] or visit virago247.net.

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Go to my website http://www.virago247.net for all things Virago 24/7
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Music by Deli Rowe: "Space to Move"
Logo by Kaylin Talley

Legacy means creating an enduring impact that lasts beyond your lifetime, leaving behind something valuable whether it's material possessions, values, or a memory of your character and impact. Philip shares the profound legacy of his spiritual mentor, Brian Mullen, who passed away two years ago in a snorkeling accident.

• Brian lived out intentionality—remembering everyone's names, birthdays, and family details
• Brian's legacy lives on through the men's group he founded, which continues to meet
• At Brian's celebration of life, people who barely knew him attended because of his impact
• There are three categories of legacy: biological (family memories), material (tangible assets), and values (positive impact)
• Legacy doesn't happen by chance but by choice—our daily decisions determine our impact
• The WHOOP framework can help plan your legacy: Wish, Outcome, Obstacles, Plans
• Reflection questions like "How do you want to be remembered?" help identify core values
• The Spark Type Assessment can help discover your natural purpose and strengths
• Legacy isn't about leaving something for people, but leaving something in people

Visit sparketype.com to take the free assessment and discover what naturally energizes and fulfills you.

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Go to my website http://www.virago247.net for all things Virago 24/7
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Music by Deli Rowe: "Space to Move"
Logo by Kaylin Talley

After 100 episodes of Virago, Lyanette Talley, reflects on the podcast's journey and the power of speaking your truth as a path to healing. A recent trip to Puerto Rico provided perspective on personal growth and the importance of reconnecting with your roots.

• Celebrating Virago's 100th episode milestone
• Why Lyanette chose not to air a previously recorded episode where a friend wasn't ready to share her full story
• The therapeutic value of speaking your truth and releasing pain
• Understanding the difference between harmful gossip and healing truth-telling
• How fear keeps us protecting those who have harmed us
• Learning to accept criticism and grow from it without letting ego take control
• Setting boundaries while still honoring your authentic experiences
• Recognizing that sharing your story isn't betrayal—it's healing
• Moving forward requires letting go of relationships and comfort zones that no longer serve you

"Your new life will cost you your old one, but the people meant for you will meet you on the other side. Instead of being liked, you'll be loved; instead of being understood, you'll be seen."

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Music by Deli Rowe: "Space to Move"
Logo by Kaylin Talley

This episode delves into the journey of self-love, resilience, and community as the hosts, Lyanette, Shiney and Briana reflect on their personal experiences from the past few months of divorce, single motherhood, sobriety, and evolving relationships. They discuss the importance of embracing vulnerability and building connections while looking forward to creating supportive events in the future.

• Reflection on the highs and lows of personal journeys 
• Emphasizing the power of community and vulnerability 
• Briana shares her journey through divorce and motherhood 
• Achievements in maintaining sobriety 
• Future plans for events fostering connection among women

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Music by Deli Rowe: "Space to Move"
Logo by Kaylin Talley

Briana and Shiney join me to explore the ups and downs of balancing career, family, and personal growth. As Briana reflects on the newfound joy of returning to work while managing the demands of family life, Shiney shares how surrounding herself with positive, like-minded individuals has been essential during challenging times. Through our conversations, we underscore the importance of setting boundaries and maintaining authenticity in both personal and professional settings, offering insights into navigating the complexities of dealing with inflexible people and challenging ingrained beliefs.

Ever found yourself questioning the sincerity of those around you? We tackle the exhaustion of discerning genuine intentions and the courage it takes to stand up for oneself amidst social interactions. Listen as we discuss the importance of emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and the guidance of mature influences in managing conflicts and emotions. Shiney and I reflect on how emotional growth can transform heated moments into opportunities for learning and effective communication, illustrating the power of vocalizing feelings and recognizing when apologies are necessary.

Finally, we embrace a mindset of joy and gratitude, exploring how reframing envy and intimidation as compliments can enhance positivity. Discover the joy of sharing personal stories, gifting notebooks, and the inspiration behind our "Virago Library." Connect with us on Instagram and Facebook at Virago24/7 to continue our journey of growth, happiness, and empowerment. Your stories are invaluable, and we look forward to growing our community of strong, supportive women.

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Go to my website http://www.virago247.net for all things Virago 24/7
You can email me at [email protected]

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Thanks for listening and don't forget to share, share, share!
Everyday growth, everyday healing with everyday warriors!

Music by Deli Rowe: "Space to Move"
Logo by Kaylin Talley