In today's episode of #WisdomOfWomen, I sit down with Melissa Wallace, the pioneering entrepreneur behind Fierce Foundry.

What You'll Gain By Listening In:

Melissa, with over 25 years in consumer, B2B, D2C, and creative agency sectors, shares invaluable insights on bridging the funding gap for women founders through a unique venture studio model.

Listeners will gain practical advice and strategic insights on navigating the complex landscape of entrepreneurship and investment.

Takeaways:

1. Fierce Foundry aims to empower women entrepreneurs by addressing the funding gap they face in business.
2. Melissa Wallace emphasizes the importance of combining capital investment with expert services for startup success.
3. The studio model provides a supportive ecosystem, increasing the chances of success for women-led startups.
4. Building a successful venture requires understanding the customer and tailoring products to their needs.
5. Melissa recommends Carrie Kirpin's book 'Work It' as a significant source of inspiration for aspiring female entrepreneurs.
6. The stages of development for startups at Fierce Foundry include ideation, product marketing, fundraising, and growth.

Chapters:

04:55 Fierce Foundry: Empowering Women Founders

13:24 Focusing on Femtech:A New Era for Female Founders

19:39 Stages of Growth in Femtech

26:05 Understanding Customer Engagement

29:59 The Importance of Founding Teams in Startups

37:51 Transforming Fear into Excitement

Burning Questions Answered:

1.How does Fierce Foundry differentiate itself from traditional venture accelerators?

2.What inspired the creation of Fierce Foundry?

3.What types of ventures or companies does Fierce Foundry invest in or partner with?

4.How does Fierce Foundry support founders through different stages of their business?

Favorite Quotes:

"Turning fear into excitement transforms the entrepreneurial journey into a thrilling adventure." - Melissa"Empowering women in business isn’t just about funding; it’s about structuring success from the ground up." - Coco

Closing Thoughts:

This episode of #WisdomOfWomen not only highlights the innovative approaches of Fierce Foundry but also serves as a beacon of inspiration for women entrepreneurs seeking to make significant impacts in their fields. Melissa Wallace’s expertise and the supportive ecosystem of Fierce Foundry provide a roadmap for success that many women founders will find invaluable.

Offers & Contact Information:

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

LinkedIn – Business: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fierce-foundry/posts/?feedView=all

Website: https://www.thefiercefoundry.com/

Email: [email protected]

Follow the #WisdomOfWomen show for more inspiring stories and insights from trailblazing women founders, investors, and experts in growth and prosperity.

YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/yja3w7nh

Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/4tak8ajk

Amazon Prime: https://tinyurl.com/366syddj

Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/bdhananz

RSS Feed: https://feeds.captivate.fm/womengetfunded/

Coco Sellman, the host of #WisdomOfWomen, believes business is a force for good, especially with visionary women at the helm. With over 25 years of entrepreneurial experience, she has launched five companies and guided over 500 startups. As Founder & CEO of A Force for Good, Coco supports purpose-driven women founders in unlocking exponential growth and prosperity. Her recent venture, Allumé Home Care, reached eight-figure revenues and seven-figure profits in just four years before a successful exit in 2024. A venture investor and board director, Coco’s book, *A Force for Good*, reveals a roadmap for women to lead high-impact, high-growth companies.

Learn more about A Force for Good:

Website: https://aforceforgood.biz/

Are Your GROWING or PLATEAUING https://aforceforgood.biz/quiz/

FFG Tool of the Week: https://aforceforgood.biz/weekly-tool/

The Book: https://aforceforgood.biz/book/

Growth Accelerator: https://aforceforgood.biz/accelerator/

In this new episode our discussion revolves around the imperative to close the exit gap that women face in business, wherein they capture a mere 0.8% of exit value.

I have the distinct honor of hosting Carrie Kerpen, a trailblazing entrepreneur and the founder and CEO of the Whisper Group, which specializes in exit readiness for women-owned businesses.

Throughout our discussion, we delve into the transformative journey of women entrepreneurs, emphasizing the necessity of cultivating confidence alongside competence. Carrie elucidates her own experiences of building and selling her agency, highlighting the profound insights gained from her journey in navigating the complexities of business exits. As we explore the nuances of leadership and the unique challenges faced by women in the entrepreneurial sphere, we illuminate pathways for women to scale their ventures and achieve financial independence.

Our Guest This Week:

Today we have a SUCCESS SORCERESS in our midst!

Carrie Kerpen is the Founder and CEO of The Whisper Group, the premier exit-readiness advisory firm dedicated exclusively to women-owned businesses. A trailblazing entrepreneur, Carrie built and sold one of the world's first social media agencies, turning a lifestyle business into a life-changing eight-figure asset. Through her work, her bestselling books — Work It!(which was featured in the #WisdomOfWomen Book Club) and her latest, The Whisper Way — and her podcast The Exit Whisperer, Carrie is on a mission to close the staggering exit gap, where women capture only 0.8% of exit value. Her visionary leadership empowers women founders to scale with purpose and exit with prosperity, reshaping the future of wealth for women. Carrie’s voice is bold, definitive, and rooted in a fierce belief: that women deserve to build companies that create freedom, impact, and generational wealth.

Takeaways:

1. A significant exit gap exists where women-owned businesses capture only 0.8% of total exit value, highlighting systemic inequalities.
2. Carrie's journey illustrates how personal challenges can lead to professional growth and transformative business success.
3. The Whisper Group aims to empower women entrepreneurs by providing resources and community support for business growth and exits.
4. Both hosts stress the importance of confidence over mere competence in pursuing business opportunities and leadership roles.
5. The conversation revolves around actionable strategies for women to build scalable businesses that can be sold for substantial value.

Chapters:

05:06 Defining Moments: Shaping the Future

11:33 Transitioning into Leadership: From Wedding Planner to CEO

13:42 The Exit Gap and Women's Entrepreneurship

19:54 Understanding the Exit Gap for Women Entrepreneurs

30:01 Understanding Valuation: The Key Metrics for Success

31:58 Navigating the Emotional Challenges of Selling a Company

39:04 The Whisper Way: A New Chapter for Women Entrepreneurs

Burning Questions Answered:

1. Why do women capture only 0.8% of exit value—and how do we fix it?
2. What makes a business actually sellable?
3. Can women create life-changing wealth without building billion-dollar unicorns?
4. How do you know when it’s time to sell your company—and what happens next?

Favorite Quotes:

“For every $100 spent on acquiring companies, women-owned businesses earn just 1 cent. That’s what we’re here to change.”

“Revenue is vanity. Profit is sanity.”

“The idea that I could sell my business meant I could stop being afraid.”

GUEST OFFERS & CONTACT INFORMATION:

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

LinkedIn Business: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thewhispergroup/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wearethewhispergroup/?

Website: https://www.wearethewhispergroup.com/

Email: [email protected]

1. The Wisper Way – the book: thewhisperway.com
2. The Whisper Way Exit Readiness Program: https://www.wearethewhispergroup.com/the-whisper-way-exit-readiness-program
3. Buy/Sell a Business: https://www.wearethewhispergroup.com/buy-sell-a-business
4. The Whisper Collective: https://www.wearethewhispergroup.com/the-whisper-collective

Follow the #WisdomOfWomen show for more inspiring stories and insights from trailblazing women founders, investors, and experts in growth and prosperity.

YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/yja3w7nh

Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/4tak8ajk

Amazon Prime: https://tinyurl.com/366syddj

Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/bdhananz

RSS Feed: https://feeds.captivate.fm/womengetfunded/

Coco Sellman, the host of #WisdomOfWomen, believes business is a force for good, especially with visionary women at the helm. With over 25 years of entrepreneurial experience, she has launched five companies and guided over 500 startups. As Founder & CEO of A Force for Good, Coco supports purpose-driven women founders in unlocking exponential growth and prosperity. Her recent venture, Allumé Home Care, reached eight-figure revenues and seven-figure profits in just four years before a successful exit in 2024. A venture investor and board director, Coco’s upcoming book, *A Force for Good*, reveals a roadmap for women to lead high-impact, high-growth companies.

Learn more about A Force for Good:

Website: https://aforceforgood.biz/

Are Your GROWING or PLATEAUING? https://aforceforgood.biz/quiz/

FFG Tool of the Week: https://aforceforgood.biz/weekly-tool/

The Book: https://aforceforgood.biz/book/

Growth Accelerator: https://aforceforgood.biz/accelerator/

This podcast episode features a profound exploration of the transformative impact of women in leadership, particularly through the lens of Virginia Klausmeier the founder and CEO of Sylvatex.

Our discussion emphasizes the emergence of a new model of leadership, characterized by innovation and sustainability in the energy sector. Virginia shares her remarkable journey of developing a groundbreaking manufacturing process that significantly reduces costs and environmental impact in battery production.

Throughout the episode, we delve into the importance of mentorship, the cultivation of diverse entrepreneurial ecosystems, and the intrinsic connection between care and innovation. Join us as we unpack the complexities of leadership and the imperative of harnessing women's wisdom to drive substantial change in the business landscape.

Takeaways:

1. Virginia exemplifies transformative leadership through her innovative approaches to battery manufacturing.
2. The discussion highlights personal experiences that inform professional journeys, underscoring the significance of resilience and adaptability in entrepreneurship.
3. The importance of community and collaboration is underscored, particularly in the context of mentorship and support among women founders.
4. A recurring theme is that success, while commendable, is often preceded by challenges and pivotal moments of learning throughout one's career.
5. The podcast advocates for a shift in focus from merely financial gains to creating meaningful impact, particularly in the realm of sustainable energy solutions.

Chapters:

00:23 - Unlocking Opportunities for Women Led Enterprises

04:51 - Pivotal Moments in Life

13:23 - The Energy Revolution: Starting Sylvatex

21:00 - Transitioning to New Funding and Revenue Strategies

29:30 - The Future Vision: Opportunities Ahead

34:54 - The Vision for Sustainable Business

Guest Offers & Contact Information:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/virginia-klausmeier-2a34ab9/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/sylvatex/about/

https://www.sylvatex.com/

Follow the #WisdomOfWomen show for more inspiring stories and insights from trailblazing women founders, investors, and experts in growth and prosperity.

YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/yja3w7nh

Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/4tak8ajk

Amazon Prime: https://tinyurl.com/366syddj

Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/bdhananz

RSS Feed: https://feeds.captivate.fm/womengetfunded/

Coco Sellman, the host of #WisdomOfWomen, believes business is a force for good, especially with visionary women at the helm. With over 25 years of entrepreneurial experience, she has launched five companies and guided over 500 startups. As Founder & CEO of A Force for Good, Coco supports purpose-driven women founders in unlocking exponential growth and prosperity. Her recent venture, Allumé Home Care, reached eight-figure revenues and seven-figure profits in just four years before a successful exit in 2024. A venture investor and board director, Coco’s upcoming book, *A Force for Good*, reveals a roadmap for women to lead high-impact, high-growth companies.

Learn more about A Force for Good:

Website: https://aforceforgood.biz/

Are Your GROWING or PLATEAUING? https://aforceforgood.biz/quiz/

FFG Tool of the Week: https://aforceforgood.biz/weekly-tool/

The Book: https://aforceforgood.biz/book/

Growth Accelerator: https://aforceforgood.biz/accelerator/

In our new episode we talk about the transformative power of design, particularly in the context of well-being and community.

We are privileged to converse with Rachael H. Grochowski, the Founder and CEO of RHG Architecture and Design, who introduces us to her innovative philosophy, "Design is Spiritual." This approach emphasizes the importance of creating spaces that foster a sense of presence, belonging, and holistic wellness, transcending mere aesthetics.

Throughout our dialogue, we explore Rachael's extensive experience in the field and her commitment to integrating spiritual principles into architectural practices. By amplifying the voices and wisdom of women in business, we aim to illuminate pathways for women-led enterprises towards prosperity and meaningful impact.

Our Guest This Week:

In this week’s episode of #WisdomofWomen we have a 🌟 Presence-Building Architect 🌟 in our midst.

Rachael H. Grochowski is the Founder & CEO of RHG Architecture + Design and the creator of the “Design is Spiritual™” philosophy—an approach that treats spaces as engines of wellbeing, presence, and belonging, not just aesthetics. With 30 years of experience across residential, hospitality, wellness, and community projects, she leads her award-winning studio in crafting environments that feel grounded, inclusive, and deeply human through intentional flow, materiality, light, and connection to nature.

Before launching RHG in 2004, she honed her craft inside elite New York design studios, designing luxury hotels, restaurants, and wellness-centric spaces.

Today she is a sought-after public speaker and an active advocate for wellness-centered design through the Global Wellness Institute’s architecture + design ecosystem. Rachael brings the rare blend of builder + wisdom-seeker (world traveler, yoga teacher, student of history and nature) to every project and every leadership lesson.

Takeaways:

1. Rachael's Design is Spiritual™ focuses on creating spaces that foster well-being and connection.
2. Leadership in today's world requires a commitment to social justice and equality for all.
3. Successful businesses must create environments that reflect their purpose and values effectively.

Burning Questions Answered:

1.Why beauty without reverence feels empty

2.How space shapes behavior, culture, and leadership

3.What it means to build a business that reflects your deepest values

4.Why alignment matters more than scale for long-term prosperity

5.How founders can design environments that actually support growth, not drain it

Chapters:

00:08 - Amplifying Women's Leadership

05:26 - Reflections on Influential Moments

10:25 - The Spirituality of Design

16:30 - The Importance of Regenerative Practices in Business

22:32 - Designing with Purpose: The Intersection of Spirituality and Business

27:11 - Creating a Wellness Space in Business

33:56 - Transitioning to the Fast Fire Round

Guest Offers & Contact Information:

www.rhgdesign.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachael-grochowski-ra-ncarb/

https://www.instagram.com/rhgdesign/

https://www.facebook.com/RHGdesign/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTPz-qbvmEt05x8J12WmGnA

https://www.houzz.com/pro/rhgdesign/rhg-architecture-design

[email protected]

Follow the #WisdomOfWomen show for more inspiring stories and insights from trailblazing women founders, investors, and experts in growth and prosperity.

YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/yja3w7nh

Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/4tak8ajk

Amazon Prime: https://tinyurl.com/366syddj

Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/bdhananz

RSS Feed: https://feeds.captivate.fm/womengetfunded/

Coco Sellman, the host of #WisdomOfWomen, believes business is a force for good, especially with visionary women at the helm. With over 25 years of entrepreneurial experience, she has launched five companies and guided over 500 startups. As Founder & CEO of A Force for Good, Coco supports purpose-driven women founders in unlocking exponential growth and prosperity. Her recent venture, Allumé Home Care, reached eight-figure revenues and seven-figure profits in just four years before a successful exit in 2024. A venture investor and board director, Coco’s upcoming book, *A Force for Good*, reveals a roadmap for women to lead high-impact, high-growth companies.

Learn more about A Force for Good:

Website: https://aforceforgood.biz/

Are Your GROWING or PLATEAUING? https://aforceforgood.biz/quiz/

FFG Tool of the Week: https://aforceforgood.biz/weekly-tool/

The Book: https://aforceforgood.biz/book/

Growth Accelerator: https://aforceforgood.biz/accelerator/

The central theme of this episode is the exploration of grief and the profound impact it has on individuals, particularly in the context of losing a spouse.

We are honored to host Samina Bari, a seasoned public company officer and author, who shares her deeply personal journey following the unexpected death of her husband. Through her experience, Samina has crafted her book, "Don't Call Me Widow," which serves as a practical guide for those seeking to support grieving individuals.

In our dialogue, we delve into the complexities of grief, the societal discomfort surrounding it, and the vital importance of offering genuine presence and understanding.

As we navigate this difficult terrain, we aim to illuminate how we can better support those in our lives who are facing unimaginable loss.

Our Guest This Week:

In this week’s episode of #WisdomofWomen we have a 🌟Heart-Brave Truth-Teller 🌟 in our presence.

Samina Bari is a two-time author, seasoned public-company officer, and strategic advisor who has spent 30+ years helping CEOs and boards navigate high-stakes moments—from IPOs and fundraising to crisis, governance, and reputation strategy. She has orchestrated transformation and growth efforts connected to major acquisitions involving global Fortune 500 companies, including deals valued at $2.3B, $2.6B, $14.3B, and $21B. After the sudden death of her husband in 2023—her partner of 21 years—Samina found herself living the kind of loss most people fear and few know how to support, while also parenting two young daughters through the unthinkable. That experience became Don’t Call Me Widow, a raw, practical, first-hand guide that teaches us what to say, what not to say, and how to show up with real presence when grief rewrites someone’s life. With the voice of a healthcare executive and the heart of a woman who has rebuilt from trauma and tragedy, Samina’s work turns pain into clarity—and gives all of us a better way to love people when it matters most.

Takeaways:

1. Samina's journey through grief highlights the profound challenges faced by those navigating loss.
2. Practical guidance is provided on how to support individuals experiencing grief in a meaningful manner.
3. The discussion delineates the societal discomfort surrounding death and grief, urging more open conversations.
4. Samina's book serves as an essential resource for understanding how to approach grief sensitively and effectively.
5. The episode underscores the importance of community support and presence during times of profound loss.

Chapters:

00:06 Amplifying Women's Voices in Business

05:50 Understanding Grief and Loss

22:17 Navigating Grief: The Impact on Parenting

26:58 The Importance of Acknowledging Children's Grief

36:33 Navigating Grief and Professional Life

Burning Questions Answered:

1.Why grief can’t be fixed—and why trying to fix it causes harm

2.How “well-meaning” phrases often land painfully wrong

3.What presence actually looks like when someone’s world collapses

4.Why children are not resilient—and why they need us to ask better questions

5.How leadership, compassion, and humanity intersect in moments of loss

Guest Offers & Contact Information:

www.saminabari.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/saminabari/

Book: “Don’t Call Me Widow” - https://www.saminabari.com/books

Podcast: After Life: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/after-life-with-samina-bari/id1844478739

Follow the #WisdomOfWomen show for more inspiring stories and insights from trailblazing women founders, investors, and experts in growth and prosperity.

YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/yja3w7nh

Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/4tak8ajk

Amazon Prime: https://tinyurl.com/366syddj

Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/bdhananz

RSS Feed: https://feeds.captivate.fm/womengetfunded/

Coco Sellman, the host of #WisdomOfWomen, believes business is a force for good, especially with visionary women at the helm. With over 25 years of entrepreneurial experience, she has launched five companies and guided over 500 startups. As Founder & CEO of A Force for Good, Coco supports purpose-driven women founders in unlocking exponential growth and prosperity. Her recent venture, Allumé Home Care, reached eight-figure revenues and seven-figure profits in just four years before a successful exit in 2024. A venture investor and board director, Coco’s upcoming book, *A Force for Good*, reveals a roadmap for women to lead high-impact, high-growth companies.

Learn more about A Force for Good:

Website: https://aforceforgood.biz/

Founders Circle: https://courses.aforceforgood.biz/landing-founders-circle

#WisdomOfWomen Show: https://aforceforgood.biz/podcast-wow

FFG Tool of the Week: https://aforceforgood.biz/weekly-tool/

The Book: https://aforceforgood.biz/book/

Force for Good Business Show: https://aforceforgood.biz/podcast-ffgbr/

In our new episode I am joined by Syama Bunten, a transformational wealth leader, we delve into the emerging paradigm of women stepping into their financial power.

Syama's impressive background as an angel investor and community builder underscores her commitment to redefining wealth for women, particularly as they prepare to inherit a staggering $30 trillion by 2030.

Throughout our dialogue, we explore the significance of closing the money confidence gap and the unique strategies women can employ to navigate their financial journeys effectively.

Our conversation serves not only to inspire but also to empower women to embrace their agency and leverage their inherent capabilities to create transformative change in their lives and the broader community.

Our Guest This Week:

In this week’s episode of #WisdomofWomen we have a 🌟 Future-Designing Wealth Warrior 🌟 in our midst!

Syama Bunten is a transformational wealth leader, angel investor, and community builder who is redefining how women step into financial power. As Co-Founder of the Wealth Catalyst Summit and Big Delta Capital and host of the top 100-ranked Getting Rich Together podcast—with over 1,000 five-star reviews—she creates spaces where women speak openly about money, build confidence, and access real deal flow. Drawing from her early career at globally renowned brands like Gucci, Barneys, and Macy’s—and her experience co-founding and exiting the award-winning fast-growth company Rendall Co.—Syama brings both corporate sophistication and entrepreneurial credibility. Her work uniquely blends education, storytelling, and peer connection to close the money-confidence gap at a moment when women are poised to inherit over $30 trillion in wealth by 2030. She is catalyzing a movement of capital-aligned leadership, empowering women to build wealth, shape culture, and create the future they want to live in.

Takeaways:

1. Syama is a transformational wealth leader focusing on empowering women financially.
2. The movement around women and wealth aims to close the money confidence gap significantly.
3. Syama's personal stories illustrate the profound impact of pursuing integrity in one's career path.
4. The discussion underscores the need for women to actively participate in the upcoming wealth transfer.
5. Wealth Catalyst aims to inspire women to invest in their communities and pursue their unique paths.

Chapters:

00:08 Amplifying Women's Voices in Business

05:28 The Journey of Integrity and Empowerment

13:00 Transformative Moments in Career and Life

17:49 The Power of Partnership in Wealth Creation

23:14 Empowering Women Through Capital Agency

30:30 Building Financial Confidence and Wealth

39:32 Transitioning to Wealth Conversations

Burning Questions Answered:

1.Why women have been conditioned to outsource financial confidence

2.How wealth becomes sustainable when it aligns with values

3.Why “there is no roadmap” is actually good news

4.How confidence grows through action, not perfection

5.Why women’s financial power shapes families, communities, and economies

Guest Offers & Contact Information:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/syamameagher/

https://wealthcatalyst.com/

https://www.bigdeltacapital.com/

Substack: https://thewealthcatalystwithsyama.substack.com/

Getting Rich Together Podcast: https://wealthcatalyst.com/podcast

https://wealthcatalyst.com/

Freedom 2026

1. Summit - NYC – May 14
2. Summit - San Francisco – Oct 16
3. 2026 - Freedom Tour Salons – All Over USA

Follow the #WisdomOfWomen show for more inspiring stories and insights from trailblazing women founders, investors, and experts in growth and prosperity.

YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/yja3w7nh

Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/4tak8ajk

Amazon Prime: https://tinyurl.com/366syddj

Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/bdhananz

RSS Feed: https://feeds.captivate.fm/womengetfunded/

Coco Sellman, the host of #WisdomOfWomen, believes business is a force for good, especially with visionary women at the helm. With over 25 years of entrepreneurial experience, she has launched five companies and guided over 500 startups. As Founder & CEO of A Force for Good, Coco supports purpose-driven women founders in unlocking exponential growth and prosperity. Her recent venture, Allumé Home Care, reached eight-figure revenues and seven-figure profits in just four years before a successful exit in 2024. A venture investor and board director, Coco’s upcoming book, *A Force for Good*, reveals a roadmap for women to lead high-impact, high-growth companies.

Learn more about A Force for Good:

Website: https://aforceforgood.biz/

Are Your GROWING or PLATEAUING? https://aforceforgood.biz/quiz/

FFG Tool of the Week: https://aforceforgood.biz/weekly-tool/

The Book: https://aforceforgood.biz/book/

Growth Accelerator: https://aforceforgood.biz/accelerator/

The salient point of this episode revolves around the imperative of empowering women, particularly those over the age of 50, to seize control of their financial destinies and embrace the notion that they possess more runway in life than they might perceive.

In this enlightening discourse, I, engage with Sherry Finkel Murphy, the esteemed Founder and CEO of Madrina  Molly®, who ardently advocates for women's financial independence and education through innovative planning and storytelling.

We delve into the experiences that have shaped Sherry's journey, illuminating the challenges and triumphs faced by women in the financial landscape.

Through her initiatives, Sherry endeavors to create a safe space where women can ask critical financial questions without fear of judgment, thereby fostering a community of support and empowerment.

This episode seeks to inspire our listeners to recognize their inherent strength and potential for reinvention, regardless of age or circumstance.

About Madrina Molly®

Madrina Molly® is a subscription-based financial and longevity education platform designed to meet women where they are — without shame, jargon, or intimidation. Through storytelling, Q&A, and mini-courses, Sherry bridges the gap between professional financial planning and real-life decision-making.

It’s education rooted in dignity, clarity, and agency.

Takeaways:

• Sherry articulates the importance of financial independence for women, particularly those aged fifty and over, advocating for proactive financial planning.
• A significant theme discussed is the necessity for women to embrace their own narratives and assert their influence within their industries.
• The episode explores the concept of leveraging one's experiences and wisdom to foster intergenerational relationships, particularly between women and their families.

Chapters:

04:39 The Power of Perseverance: A Discussion on Life Lessons

12:21 The Triple Decker Club Sandwich Generation

16:11 Navigating Life's Transitions: The Opportunity for Freedom

23:25 Planning for the Future: The Importance of Exit Strategies

28:59 Building Professional Relationships

36:21 The Caregiving Crisis and Women's Empowerment

39:32 The Journey of Wisdom and Empowerment

Burning Questions Answered:

1.What if the way we’ve been taught to think about money… was never designed for women?

2.What if midlife isn’t a closing chapter — but the beginning of your most powerful one?

3.And what if the real risk isn’t spending too much… but waiting too long to live fully?

4.How do you build a business, a life, and a future that honors both ambition and wellbeing?

Favorite Quotes:

"No one ever wishes they worked harder. We each get 168 hours a week.”

“Begin with the end in mind — that’s how you know if you have a business or a labor of love.”

“There are two ways to flunk retirement: running out of money… or never living.”

Guest Offers & Contact Information:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-c-firtle-a101511b/

https://www.instagram.com/bridgetcfirtle/?hl=en

Follow the #WisdomOfWomen show for more inspiring stories and insights from trailblazing women founders, investors, and experts in growth and prosperity.

YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/yja3w7nh

Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/4tak8ajk 

Amazon Prime: https://tinyurl.com/366syddj 

Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/bdhananz 

RSS Feed: https://feeds.captivate.fm/womengetfunded/ 

Coco Sellman, the host of #WisdomOfWomen, believes business is a force for good, especially with visionary women at the helm. With over 25 years of entrepreneurial experience, she has launched five companies and guided over 500 startups. As Founder & CEO of A Force for Good, Coco supports purpose-driven women founders in unlocking exponential growth and prosperity. Her recent venture, Allumé Home Care, reached eight-figure revenues and seven-figure profits in just four years before a successful exit in 2024. A venture investor and board director, Coco’s upcoming book, *A Force for Good*, reveals a roadmap for women to lead high-impact, high-growth companies.

Learn more about A Force for Good:

Website: https://aforceforgood.biz/

Founders Circle: https://courses.aforceforgood.biz/landing-founders-circle

#WisdomOfWomen Show: https://aforceforgood.biz/podcast-wow

FFG Tool of the Week: https://aforceforgood.biz/weekly-tool/

The Book: https://aforceforgood.biz/book/

Force for Good Business Show: https://aforceforgood.biz/podcast-ffgbr/

The salient point of this weeks episode is the remarkable journey of Bridget Firtlel, a dynamic entrepreneur who has successfully navigated the worlds of finance and spirits.

Bridget, previously entrenched in the high-stakes environment of Wall Street, transitioned to founding Owney’s Rum, a venture that has flourished under her leadership. In a significant turn of events,

Bridget shares her recent decision to repurchase Owney’s Rum from Proximo Spirits, marking a pivotal moment in her entrepreneurial narrative.

Throughout the discussion, we explore the complexities of her dual role as a founder and a mother, delving into the notion of success that transcends mere financial gain to encompass personal fulfillment and family priorities.

We invite our listeners to reflect on the insights shared by Bridget as she articulates her vision for the future, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and resilience in the journey of business development.

Our Guest This Week:

In this week’s episode of #WisdomofWomen we have a 🌟 Cocktail Capitalist🌟 in our midst!  

Bridget Firtle is a powerhouse founder who left a high-flying Wall Street hedge fund career to build one of New York’s most beloved spirits brands—Owney’s Rum—long before “craft distilling” was a movement. With her rare blend of financial acumen and street-level grit, she grew Owney’s into a national success and forged a strategic partnership with Proximo Spirits before successfully exiting in 2020. Never one to stay still, Bridget went on to found Rockaway Soda, launch New York Raised Us, and establish The Cyclone Group—all while investing in and advising purpose-driven ventures. Recognized by Forbes 30 Under 30, The Financial Times, The New York Times, and CNBC, she’s known for breaking molds, building legacies, and leading with fierce independence. A native New Yorker to the core, Bridget brings both edge and empathy to the entrepreneurial game—proving that building a company of substance starts with the courage to bet it all on your vision.

Takeaways:

• Bridget's journey showcases the transition from Wall Street to founding a successful spirits brand.
• The conversation highlights the challenges and triumphs of being a woman entrepreneur and mother.
• Bridget's repurchase of Owney’s Rum signifies her commitment to her vision and entrepreneurial roots.
• The episode reflects on the evolving definition of success beyond financial gain to personal fulfillment.
• Listeners are encouraged to embrace their unique paths and pursue authentic definitions of success.

Chapters:

00:07 Amplifying Women's Voices in Leadership

00:32 Bridget's Journey: From Wall Street to Craft Distilling

13:24 Navigating Business Challenges

20:24 The Balancing Act: Entrepreneurship and Parenthood

28:33 The Evolution of Success

Burning Questions Answered:

1.What does it take to walk away from a successful exit… and then choose to reclaim the company you built?

2.How do you know when it’s time to return to the work that once lit you up?

3.What does “success” actually mean after you've lived the corporate path, exited a company, and become a mother?

4.How do you build boldly while honoring your values, your family, and your independence?

GUEST OFFERS & CONTACT INFORMATION:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-c-firtle-a101511b/

https://www.instagram.com/bridgetcfirtle/?hl=en

Follow the #WisdomOfWomen show for more inspiring stories and insights from trailblazing women founders, investors, and experts in growth and prosperity.

YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/yja3w7nh

Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/4tak8ajk 

Amazon Prime: https://tinyurl.com/366syddj 

Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/bdhananz 

RSS Feed: https://feeds.captivate.fm/womengetfunded/ 

Coco Sellman, the host of #WisdomOfWomen, believes business is a force for good, especially with visionary women at the helm. With over 25 years of entrepreneurial experience, she has launched five companies and guided over 500 startups. As Founder & CEO of A Force for Good, Coco supports purpose-driven women founders in unlocking exponential growth and prosperity. Her recent venture, Allumé Home Care, reached eight-figure revenues and seven-figure profits in just four years before a successful exit in 2024. A venture investor and board director, Coco’s upcoming book, *A Force for Good*, reveals a roadmap for women to lead high-impact, high-growth companies.

Learn more about A Force for Good:

Website: https://aforceforgood.biz/

Founders Circle: https://courses.aforceforgood.biz/landing-founders-circle

#WisdomOfWomen Show: https://aforceforgood.biz/podcast-wow

FFG Tool of the Week: https://aforceforgood.biz/weekly-tool/

The Book: https://aforceforgood.biz/book/

Force for Good Business Show: https://aforceforgood.biz/podcast-ffgbr/

In our new episode, the topic of discussion revolves around the imperative for women in business to cultivate a leadership style that aligns with authenticity and well-being, as articulated by our distinguished guest, Roslyn McLarty.

As the founder and CEO of Within, a platform dedicated to aiding purpose-driven entrepreneurs, Roslyn shares her profound insights on navigating the complexities of founder burnout and the importance of self-awareness in the entrepreneurial journey.

Throughout our dialogue, we explore the transformative power of aligning personal values with professional endeavors, particularly in a landscape often dominated by the hustle culture. Rosalind’s journey, from co-founding a successful sports media brand to recognizing the detrimental effects of traditional grind culture, underscores the necessity for women leaders to redefine success on their own terms.

In sharing her experiences and the methodologies she employs, we aim to empower our listeners to foster resilience and authenticity in their own entrepreneurial pursuits.

Our Guest This Week:

In this week’s episode of #WisdomofWomen we have a 🌟 🌟 in our midst!  

Roslyn McLarty is the Founder & CEO of Within, a personal development platform helping purpose-led founders build companies that scale impact without sacrificing their well-being.

Before launching Within, she co-founded The GIST, the groundbreaking women-run digital sports media brand making sports more inclusive and fun for millions of underserved fans.

At The GIST, Roslyn grew the company to a multi-million-dollar enterprise with a 40-person team — predominantly women and non-binary folks — earning recognition as a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree and attracting backing from Facebook, Comcast NBC, Techstars, and Billie Jean King’s Trailblazer Program.

Her own experience of founder burnout revealed the hidden cost of traditional “grind culture” and inspired her to help visionary entrepreneurs align success with authenticity, joy, and longevity.

Today, through Within’s coaching, content, and community, Roslyn empowers founders to scale purpose-driven companies while staying deeply connected to who they truly are.

Takeaways:

• Burnout among founders reveals the detrimental effects of traditional grind culture on well-being.
• Roslyn's journey emphasizes the importance of aligning personal integrity with entrepreneurial success.
• Emphasizing intuition and creativity leads to sustainable business practices and authentic leadership.
• Engaging in emotional intelligence and self-awareness fosters better decision-making in leadership roles.
• The episode advocates for a new model of leadership that honors women's unique experiences and contributions.

Chapters:

00:07 Amplifying Women's Voices in Business

07:25 The Journey of a Founder: From Burnout to Authenticity

11:13 Understanding Burnout: A Personal Journey

16:57 Finding Alignment: The Path to Self-Discovery and Business Success

21:47 The Role of Intuition in Business Growth

32:21 Transitioning to a New Approach in Leadership

34:06 The Spiritual Journey of Entrepreneurship

Burning Questions Answered:

1. What does burnout really look like when you’re ignoring the signs?
2. Why do founders cling to perfectionism, people-pleasing, and control — and how do you break the cycle?
3. How do you scale a company without sacrificing your wellbeing, identity, or intuition?
4. What does it take to build a business from your deepest alignment — not fear?

Favorite Quotes:

"Entrepreneurship is a spiritual journey.”

“The challenges coming up in your business are your opportunities to heal and evolve.”

Guest Offers & Contact Information:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/roslyn-mclarty-51058223/

https://www.instagram.com/roslynmclarty

https://within.beehiiv.com/ (newsletter)

https://www.withincoaching.co/

Join Roslyn and me for a walk in the West Village: 

https://luma.com/user/usr-F6kMufGxvwDXaUX 

Follow the #WisdomOfWomen show for more inspiring stories and insights from trailblazing women founders, investors, and experts in growth and prosperity.

YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/yja3w7nh

Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/4tak8ajk 

Amazon Prime: https://tinyurl.com/366syddj 

Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/bdhananz 

RSS Feed: https://feeds.captivate.fm/womengetfunded/ 

Coco Sellman, the host of #WisdomOfWomen, believes business is a force for good, especially with visionary women at the helm. With over 25 years of entrepreneurial experience, she has launched five companies and guided over 500 startups. As Founder & CEO of A Force for Good, Coco supports purpose-driven women founders in unlocking exponential growth and prosperity. Her recent venture, Allumé Home Care, reached eight-figure revenues and seven-figure profits in just four years before a successful exit in 2024. A venture investor and board director, Coco’s upcoming book, *A Force for Good*, reveals a roadmap for women to lead high-impact, high-growth companies.

Learn more about A Force for Good:

Website: https://aforceforgood.biz/ 

Are Your GROWING or PLATEAUING? https://aforceforgood.biz/quiz/

FFG Tool of the Week: https://aforceforgood.biz/weekly-tool/ 

The Book:  https://aforceforgood.biz/book/ 

Growth Accelerator: https://aforceforgood.biz/accelerator/ 

The primary focus of our discussion centers on the transformative impact of Gentreo, an innovative online estate planning platform founded by Renee Fry.

Through the lens of personal anecdotes and professional insights, we explore how Gentreo is revolutionizing estate planning by making it accessible, affordable, and comprehensible for families across the United States.

Renee's unique experiences, including overcoming significant health challenges, have shaped her vision for a service that not only simplifies the estate planning process but also empowers families to make informed decisions.

The conversation delves into the importance of addressing these often-daunting tasks proactively, ensuring that individuals do not leave their loved ones burdened with uncertainty. We invite our listeners to consider the profound implications of estate planning and how Gentreo can facilitate a smoother path toward securing one’s legacy for future generations.

Our Guest This Week:

In this week’s episode of #WisdomofWomen we have an 🌟 Revolutionary Estate-Building Innovator🌟 in our midst!  

Renee Fry is the CEO and Co-Founder of Gentreo, a pioneering online estate planning platform that makes protecting what matters most simple, affordable, and accessible. With a career spanning public policy, entrepreneurship, and leadership in high-growth ventures, Renee helped lead GT Solar’s IPO and served in Governor Mitt Romney’s cabinet before launching her own company. A graduate of Penn State and Harvard Business School, she has guided Gentreo into partnerships with more than 100 credit unions, banks, and organizations nationwide. Her vision is to transform estate planning from a daunting, expensive task into an empowering experience for every family. Featured in outlets like Forbes and Kiplinger’s, Renee is a glassbreaking leader committed to changing how America plans for the future—one family at a time.

Takeaways:

• Renee discusses the transformative vision behind her estate planning platform, Gentreo.
• Listeners are encouraged to understand that estate planning is vital for all families.
• The episode highlights personal stories that shaped the speaker's journey as an entrepreneur.
• Renee's experience with unexpected health challenges underscored the significance of having a solid estate plan.
• The conversation stresses the need for accessible and affordable estate planning solutions for everyone.

Chapters:

03:46 - Personal Growth and Overcoming Challenges

11:04 - The Birth of Gentrio

19:47 - Approach to Growth and Partnerships

23:11 - Navigating Life Milestones

36:00 - Legacy and Inspiration: A Family's Journey

38:03 - Inspiring the Next Generation

Burning Questions Answered:

1.Why do so many families get stuck—or blindsided—when something unexpected happens?

2.What does “estate planning you can actually use in real life” look like?

3.How do personal crises shape the companies we feel called to build?

Guest Offers & Contact Information:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/renee-fry-a4ab133/

Follow the #WisdomOfWomen show for more inspiring stories and insights from trailblazing women founders, investors, and experts in growth and prosperity.

YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/yja3w7nh

Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/4tak8ajk 

Amazon Prime: https://tinyurl.com/366syddj 

Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/bdhananz 

RSS Feed: https://feeds.captivate.fm/womengetfunded/ 

Coco Sellman, the host of #WisdomOfWomen, believes business is a force for good, especially with visionary women at the helm. With over 25 years of entrepreneurial experience, she has launched five companies and guided over 500 startups. As Founder & CEO of A Force for Good, Coco supports purpose-driven women founders in unlocking exponential growth and prosperity. Her recent venture, Allumé Home Care, reached eight-figure revenues and seven-figure profits in just four years before a successful exit in 2024. A venture investor and board director, Coco’s upcoming book, *A Force for Good*, reveals a roadmap for women to lead high-impact, high-growth companies.

Learn more about A Force for Good:

Website: https://aforceforgood.biz/

Founders Circle: https://courses.aforceforgood.biz/landing-founders-circle

#WisdomOfWomen Show: https://aforceforgood.biz/podcast-wow

FFG Tool of the Week: https://aforceforgood.biz/weekly-tool/

The Book: https://aforceforgood.biz/book/

Force for Good Business Show: https://aforceforgood.biz/podcast-ffgb