In this episode, we welcome Erica Lockheimer. Known for her remarkable career in tech, Erica shares insights from her career  journey at LinkedIn, where she not only played a crucial role in the growth of the platform, but also founded the Women in Tech initiative. Erica shares her story and challenges she faced as one of the few women in her field. 

We discuss the pivotal moments that led her to redefine success on her own terms, breaking away from expectations to pursue what she had a passion for. Now, as the founder and CEO of HumanizeHer, Erica is passionate about cultivating a world where women can thrive and shatter glass ceilings. Tune in to discover Erica's journey, her thoughts on the evolving role of LinkedIn, and her vision for women in tech and careers beyond. This episode is inspiring and a must-listen for anyone looking to follow their own path and possibilities.

Episode Highlights:

• Redefining Success: Erica talks about how challenging societal norms and expectations was a pivotal step in her personal journey. She emphasizes identifying and pursuing what truly resonates with you, even if it means straying from the path expected by others.
• LinkedIn's Evolution: From leading LinkedIn's growth team to spearheading Women in Tech, Erica shares behind-the-scenes stories of her dynamic experiences and the platform's transformation over the years.
• AI and Diversity: Erica discusses the critical role of diverse representation in algorithm development, especially in AI, and how biases can be mitigated.
• Empowering Women: Learn more about HumanizeHer, Erica's inspiring initiative aimed at creating a world where every woman can thrive, excel, and define success personally.

Key Quotes:

• “You better have diverse people at the table, building products, because representation matters in everything we create.”
• “We can’t be our best-kept secrets—women’s voices need platforms to be heard and celebrated.”
• “I never worked harder, but I’ve never enjoyed my work more than I do now.”

Connect with Erica and HumanizeHer: 

• Website: https://www.instagram.com/humanizehernow/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericalockheimer/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/humanizehernow/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HumanizeHer

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In this episode, we sit down with PR powerhouse Heidi Krupp, a master publicist and brand strategist with decades of experience shaping bestselling books and personal brands. From working at ABC’s 20/20 to launching her own successful agency, she shares her journey, the art of storytelling in PR, and what it takes to craft a message that resonates.

We also dive into the current media buzz surrounding the Justin Baldoni & Blake Lively case, breaking down what people get wrong about publicists and the blurred lines in today’s media landscape. Plus, hear the fascinating story of how she started her business with just $5,000—and how that risk turned into a career working with icons like Tony Robbins, Dr. Stephen Covey, and more.

Key Highlights:

✅ Why storytelling, consistency, and relationships are the true keys to building a lasting brand—and how you can apply these principles to your own success.
✅ Lessons learned from interning at ABC’s 20/20 and working with Barbara Walters
✅ The role of a publicist: understanding what the role entails & what the job is
✅ How to turn a book into a brand (and a business!)
✅ The truth about the PR industry and the media’s changing landscape
✅ The surprising way she funded her first business
✅ The impact of mentors and the power of personal branding

Key Links: 

Follow Heidi at: 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/heidi-krupp/

https://www.kruppagency.com/

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In this episode, we sit down with Terri Cole, a best-selling author, licensed psychotherapist, relationship expert, and empowerment coach. We discuss Terri's career transition, her work (and first book) on setting boundaries, and her expertise in high-functioning codependency. You will learn what is high-functioning codependency (HFC) and learn how you can recognize and address your own codependent behaviors, set healthy boundaries and have better relationships.  Terri shares tangible tips and takeaways to help you change the way you approach relationships today, so grab a pen and paper! 

Episode Highlights:

• Terri shares her own career change, transformation & healing process 
• How should you think about boundaries and Terri's book, Boundary Boss. 
• What is the Downloaded Love Blueprint and how is it affecting your current relationships? 
• What is high-functioning codependency (HFC)? What steps can you take if you exhibit the behaviors of HFC? 
• Overinvestment and resentment - what role they play in your relationships, how you see others, and how they see you. 

Follow Terri & Learn More: 

Get your free resources, order Terri's book(s) and sign up to stay connected at: https://www.terricole.com/hfc/

Learn more about Terri by visiting: https://www.terricole.com/

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In this episode, we dive into a world of storytelling, resilience, and sports with Jamie Mittelman, the voice behind the award-winning podcast Flamebearers.

Flamebearers amplifies the stories of women Olympians and Paralympians from around the world, shining a light on the intersection of sports, gender equity, and human perseverance. 

Jamie shares how her Harvard experience and passion for amplifying underrepresented voices led to the creation of this groundbreaking podcast. You’ll hear the inspiration behind Flamebearers and the mission to elevate the stories of women athletes, the challenges faced by women in sports media and how they are breaking barriers, as well as the unique stories for resilience, diversity and triumph by women in athletics. 

Episode Highlights: 

• The inspiration behind Flamebearers and its mission to elevate the stories of women athletes.
• Challenges faced by female athletes and how they’re breaking through barriers.
• The unique narratives of resilience, diversity, and triumph that make these athletes’ stories unforgettable.
• How storytelling can inspire a new generation of leaders and changemakers.

🎧 Tune in now and follow Jamie & Flamebearers below for more information:

Website: https://flamebearers.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flamebearers/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3a5dMGFv0_Q
Connect with Jamie Mittelman: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamiemittelman/

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In this episode, we hear from Kendra Adachi, the bestselling author of The Lazy Genius Way to discuss compassionate time management. Kendra shares her journey from perfectionism to finding balance, introducing her transformative framework: "Be a genius about the things that matter and lazy about the things that don’t."  We explore actionable strategies for prioritizing what truly matters, embracing small steps, and showing kindness to ourselves in every season of life.

Key Highlights:

• The Origin: Kendra explains how her journey as an overachiever and mother led her to create the framework of focusing on what matters most in each season of life.
• The Myth of Productivity: A candid discussion on the male-dominated productivity industry and why traditional time management systems often fail women.
• Naming What Matters: Learn practical steps for identifying priorities by narrowing your scope—whether it’s a life category, season, or even just a single day.
• Compassionate Time Management: Discover how to align expectations with the energy you have, rather than striving for unattainable ideals.

More about Kendra: 

Kendra Adachi is a two-time New York Times bestselling author of The Lazy Genius Way, The Lazy Genius Kitchen and The PLAN and host of nationally ranked The Lazy Genius Podcast. As an expert in compassionate time management, Kendra helps others stop doing it all for the sake of doing what matters. She lives in North Carolina with her husband and three kids.

You can learn more and follow Kendra at: 

https://www.thelazygeniuscollective.com/

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The college admissions process has changed drastically, and so has the reality of what students face once they’re admitted. In this episode, our guest Jennifer shares her expert insights into the challenges of the modern education landscape, the post-pandemic impact on students, and what parents can do to set their kids up for success—not just in college, but in life. We cover practical strategies, the importance of resilience, and how to embrace a growth mindset to thrive academically and professionally.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why college admissions are more competitive than ever—and how it affects students.
• How the pandemic has shaped academic readiness and mental health for today’s generation.
• The crucial skills students need to transition successfully from high school to college.
• Strategies for managing distractions and building effective study habits.
• Why failure is essential to growth—and how parents can encourage resilience in their kids.

Links & Resources

• Jennifer’s website: https://www.jgtalks.org/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jgtalksorg/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-gershberg-99bb409b/
• Course: https://jgtalks.thinkific.com/

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In this episode, we sit down with Laura Brusca, the Chief Communications Officer at Forbes and President of New York Women in Communications (NYWICI). Laura shares her inspiring journey from her early days in communications to becoming a leader in the industry. We dive into her career path, the challenges she’s faced, and the lessons she’s learned. She offers advice for young professionals entering the field, discusses the value of building networks, and emphasizes the importance of stepping outside your comfort zone to grow personally and professionally.

Highlights from this Episode:

• The Role of a Chief Communications Officer: Promoting and protecting a brand, corporate communications, and the shift in dynamics with hybrid work environments.
• Career Path Insights: Laura’s career journey, including early internships that shaped her trajectory and how she discovered her passion for corporate communications.
• The Value of Networking: Laura’s involvement in NYWICI, her transition from volunteer to president, and how organizations like this help build networks and create opportunities for women. 
• Overcoming Challenges: From public speaking fears to moments of embarrassment, Laura reflects on how these experiences have made her more confident and adaptable.
• Advice for Young Professionals: Tips for starting a career in communications, the importance of internships, and the value of being proactive and open-minded.
• Self-Compassion and Growth: Learning to not overthink feedback, give yourself grace, and use challenges as stepping stones for growth.

Follow Laura Brusca:
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurabrusca/

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Did you know that Latina women earn only 53 cents to every dollar compared to men and hold a mere 2% of executive positions despite being 9% of the U.S. population?

In this episode of Women of Influence, we welcome Cynthia Kleinbaum Milner and Claudia Romo Edelman, two powerhouse Latinas championing the cause for Latina representation in leadership roles. With a lack of visible role models and adequate networking opportunities, Latinas face unique challenges. Cynthia and Claudia share  their personal stories, the mission behind their cause and podcast,  A La Latina, and the importance of changing the narrative around Latinas in the U.S. This episode is a deep dive into breaking barriers, flipping the script on biases, and promoting leadership.

Key Highlights from the Episode:

• Understanding the Challenges and hurdles Latinas face in the corporate environment, including lack of role models and networking opportunities.
• A La Latina: Emphasizing the importance of taking risks and authenticity in corporate settings. See how the podcast is empowering Latinas by offering a playbook to help Latinas navigate corporate challenges while staying true to themselves.
• Learn about the expansion of A La Latina into a comprehensive network that connects professional Latinas both in-person and digitally across cities, providing mentors, sponsors, and a support system.
• Hear insights from Claudia and Cynthia on how embracing their Latina identity became a superpower and the lessons others can pull from their success stories.
• Learn how Cynthia and Claudia have a commitment to spreading the empowering message to both Latinas and non-Latinas, reinforcing the possibility of achieving their goal while focusing on strengths and taking a risk without waiting for permission.
• Hear how both Cynthia and Claudia emphasize the importance of taking risks early in life, assuring listeners that it’s okay to leap.
• Economic and Representation Issues: Discussion on the Hispanic community’s impact on the U.S. economy, underrepresentation in executive roles, and the need for equitable wages for Latina women.
• 
  

Links & Resources

Want to learn more & follow?

Claudia LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claudiaromoedelman/

Cynthia LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cynthia-kleinbaum-milner-63685b2/

Website: https://www.alalatina.com/

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

 Learn more about the Hispanic Leadership Summit and Hispanic Star Gala 

https://www.hispanicstar.org/hls

https://www.hispanicstar.org/gala

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In this fun episode, our guest Laurie Schacht, the President & Chief Toy Officer at Toy Insider, gives us an inside look into the toy industry and how she got her start. Laurie shares her unique story, from growing up rooted in the toy business to unexpectedly taking over her father's business, reestablishing The Toy Book and launching The Toy Insider. Laurie discusses the evolution of toys, key industry trends, and what to expect in the upcoming holiday season. Plus, she offers an exclusive sneak peek into what’s hot for 2025.

Key Takeaways

• Laurie’s Start in the Industry: Laurie grew up surrounded by the toy world, as her father started The Toy Book, a B2B magazine still thriving today, thanks to Laurie nd her team. Laurie took the reins of the company unexpectedly and rebuilt it with the help of her dedicated team.
• The Toy Insider: After restoring The Toy Book, Laurie launched The Toy Insider, offering a trusted, unbiased list of the hottest toys, a concept that has gained immense popularity.
• Changes in the Toy Industry: Laurie reflects on the consolidation of smaller toy companies and independent stores, the shift in gender dynamics, and the rise of women in leadership within the industry.
• The Role of Influencers: Laurie discusses how influencers, particularly on platforms like TikTok, have become a significant part of toy marketing, helping companies predict trends and drive consumer interest.
• Hot Toy Trends for 2024/2025: Laurie shared upcoming trends like AI integration in toys and a continued emphasis on “analog” playtime, with toys that engage kids without screens.
• Memorable Stories: A hilarious story involving Laurie and Al Roker during a segment on The Today Show and a Big Hugs Elmo toy!

Links & Resources 

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thetoyinsider/
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thetoyinsider
• Website: The Toy Insider
• Laurie Schacht 
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurie-schacht-b3b5035/

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Over the past 2 years, the SheSpeaks podcast has shared the stories of amazing women. Recently, we announced a new name, Women of Influence.  We’re excited about this shift as we feel it defines best what we have always done and continue to do, amplify the stories and experiences of amazing women. 

We realized the common thread through our conversations was women using their influence to build, to grow, to share and inspire.  All of these amazing women, be it founders, CEOs, authors, experts, celebrities, and change-makers have done just that. As we head into new episodes, we will continue to have conversations, learn from women, hear their stories, and see how their influence is effecting change and inspiring others. 

Join us as we revisit some standout moments from episodes over the years: 

From Baby Jars to Beauty Bars with Lisa Price

Lisa Price, the founder of Carol's Daughter, shared her inspiring journey of becoming an "accidental entrepreneur." Despite not having a business background, Lisa turned her hobby into a thriving beauty empire. 

Tackling Teenage Mental Health with Lisa Damore

Expert Lisa Damore provided eye-opening insights into teenage mental health - from understanding healthy anxiety to addressing the commercialization of wellness.

Evolving at Any Age with Stacey London

Stacey London of TLC's What Not to Wear fame inspired us by discussing her journey to pivot her career and create a voice for midlife women. She  spoke about the importance of personal agency and the freedom to evolve at any stage in life.

Rethinking Beauty Standards with Jessica Defino

Jessica Defino shined a light on the problematic aspects of the beauty industry. She discussed how the industry has co-opted the concept of beauty and commoditized it, making it a struggle for many to attain the standards.

Transparency in Influencing with Kristen Sellentin

Kristen Sellentin's viral reel revealed her earnings as a content creator, sparking a positive conversation about transparency and success in the influencer world. She emphasized that it's never too late to pivot your career and find success.

Want to listen to all the episodes featured here?

Lisa Price - From Baby Jars to Beauty Bars: The Rise of Carol’s Daughter 

Dr. Lisa Damour - Teenage Mental Health and Social Media 

Stacy London - Evolving at Any Age 

Jessica DeFino - Changing the Conversation Round Beauty 

Kristen Sellentin - Why this Creator Revealed Her 6 Figure Earnings for the Year  

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