Pretty Powerful Podcast with Angela Gennari

Some moments change everything. For Karen Olson, it was a conversation with a homeless woman named Millie on a New York City sidewalk—an encounter so simple, yet so profound, it led her to leave behind a thriving marketing career and devote her life to fighting family homelessness. Karen went on to build Family Promise, one of the most impactful organizations addressing homelessness in America. She’s the author of Meant for More, a woman of quiet power, and a living example of what it means to answer the call—even when it pulls you off the well-worn path. Her story is one of legacy, leadership, and love—and it’s exactly the reminder we all need right now: that true success isn’t found in titles or accolades, but in the lives we touch along the way. As this season of the Pretty Powerful Podcast comes to a close, I couldn’t imagine a more meaningful conversation to end on. I’m taking a short break to reflect, realign, and reimagine what’s next for this platform—but the mission remains the same: to celebrate the women who dare to make a difference. Thank you for listening, for showing up, and for believing in the power of women's voices. Pick up Meant for More and learn more about Family Promise. ❤️ The journey isn’t over. Just evolving. Stay tuned.

What if you could grow your business without living on social media? This week on the Pretty Powerful Podcast, I’m joined by Katie Brinkley—author of The Social Shift, top 1% podcast host, and the queen of cutting through the social media noise. Eight years ago, Katie got laid off from her dream job. No safety net. No clients. No MBA. Just a former boss’s nudge that she might be really good at this social media thing. Today, she runs a 7-figure agency helping entrepreneurs ditch the burnout and ditch the content hamster wheel. Her game-changing 4-Post Strategy proves that posting less can actually drive more sales—and it works whether you're a solopreneur or a Fortune 500 brand. We talk: ✨ Turning job loss into a thriving business 📉 The biggest social media mistakes (and how to fix them) 📲 The 4-Post Strategy that’s rewriting the rules 💡 How to create content that actually converts without chasing trends Katie’s approach is refreshingly real, deeply strategic, and exactly what you need if you're tired of content chaos and ready for results. 🎧 Listen now on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

This week, I’m honored to share space with Dr. Jeanne-Mari Retief—a woman whose story redefines strength, grace, and purpose. A renowned human rights expert, Jeanne’s 2015 diagnosis of Panic Disorder led her to reevaluate everything—including a career she once lived and breathed. What followed was a powerful reinvention: she founded FIGGI Life & Beauty, a brand and platform for women who crave authenticity over perfection. But Jeanne’s journey didn’t stop there. Recently, she faced significant personal trauma—yet she continues to show up with intention, vulnerability, and fierce resilience in every part of her life. Her story is a reminder that healing is not linear, and power doesn’t mean having it all figured out. We discuss: 💥 The courage to walk away from a career that no longer serves you 🌿 Building skincare for sensitive skin and sensitive souls 🧠 Why it’s okay not to be okay—and how to create space for others who feel the same 💫 How to keep showing up, even in the darkest moments Jeanne is raw, real, and deeply inspiring. If you're navigating adversity or searching for meaning beyond the chaos, this episode will meet you where you are. 🎧 Listen now on your favorite podcast platform. #PrettyPowerfulPodcast #FIGGILife #MentalHealthAwareness #TraumaHealing #ResilientWomen #SkincareWithSoul

This week on the Pretty Powerful Podcast, I’m joined by Emily Schneider, a freelance PowerPoint designer and seasoned visual storyteller with nearly two decades of experience in marketing and branding. Emily has a rare talent: she takes complex ideas and transforms them into captivating, high-impact presentations that not only look great—but connect. 💡 In this episode, we dive into: 📢 Why your story matters more than your slides 🎯 How to explain your “why” in a way that resonates 🎨 Tips to design presentations that engage, inspire, and inform ☠️ How to avoid the dreaded “Death by PowerPoint” If you’ve ever struggled to make your message stick in a pitch, meeting, or keynote—this episode is packed with insight that will transform the way you present your ideas. 🎧 Tune in to learn how to own your narrative and elevate your presence through powerful, purposeful visuals. #PrettyPowerfulPodcast #EmilySchneider #PowerPointDesign #VisualStorytelling #PresentLikeAPro #WomenInBusiness #BrandMessaging #PresentationDesign #StorytellingStrategy #DeathByPowerPointNoMore

What happens when you combine powerful AI tools with a deeply human brand? You get magic—and this week’s guest knows exactly how to make it happen. On the Pretty Powerful Podcast, I’m joined by Erika Stanley, founder and CEO of Mile End Digital—a visionary branding and digital strategy expert who launched her agency during the pandemic to make high-quality branding and websites accessible to everyone... particularly small businesses. With nearly 20 years of marketing experience, Erika saw a broken system where small businesses were turned away simply for not meeting arbitrary agency minimums. So she built a better way—empowering startups and solopreneurs to tell their story, build their brand, and use AI tools strategically (not chaotically). 🎧 In this episode, we dive into: 🤖 How to use AI for smarter, more authentic marketing 🎯 Building a brand that aligns with your values 💡 Making big-brand strategies accessible for every entrepreneur 🔥 Why NOW is the best time to build your business with purpose and power Erika is all about helping entrepreneurs cut through the noise, connect more deeply, and create meaningful impact—without sacrificing their authenticity. 🎧 Tune in now and get ready to rethink everything you thought you knew about branding, marketing, and the power of AI. #PrettyPowerfulPodcast #ErikaStanley #MileEndDigital #AuthenticBranding #AIForBusiness #WomenInBusiness #SmallBusinessMarketing #DigitalStrategy #BrandWithPurpose #HumanFirstMarketing #MarketingWithHeart #prettypowerfulpodcast #podcast #femalepodcast #womanowned #femaleentrepreneur #entrepreneur #empowerment #inspirational #lifecoach #femaleboss #workingmom #fyp #femaleceo #femalefounder

What if the key to more freedom isn’t working harder—but working smarter with strategy? This week on the Pretty Powerful Podcast, I’m joined by Carol Kabaale, a Meta-certified Ads Strategist who helps online business coaches grow their impact and income through purpose-driven Facebook ad campaigns. 💻📈 Carol’s journey is both inspiring and relatable. She was following the traditional path—school, steady job, corporate ladder—until a moment of clarity changed everything. After her high school sweetheart proposed, Carol knew she wanted more than weekends off. She wanted freedom, joy, and a life she could actually live. So she took a leap, built her own digital agency from the ground up, and now empowers coaches to scale their businesses through ads that actually work. 🎧 In this episode, we talk about: 📊 How to attract high-quality leads with Facebook ads 💡 Actionable strategies to automate lead generation 💰 What really drives measurable results (it’s not guesswork!) ⚖️ How to balance hustle with the life you truly want If you're a coach, consultant, or entrepreneur ready to grow your business without burning out, this episode is packed with insight and inspiration. Listen now and learn how to turn ads into your most powerful growth tool. #PrettyPowerfulPodcast #CarolKabaale #WomenInBusiness #MetaCertified #FacebookAdsExpert #DigitalMarketing #OnlineCoaches #LeadGeneration #AdStrategy #FreedomLifestyle #WorkSmarterNotHarder

Let’s talk about the real power behind your business—your finances. On this week’s episode of the Pretty Powerful Podcast, I’m joined by the brilliant Tanya Akimenko, founder of Golden Apple Agency Inc. With over 20 years of experience, Tanya has had a front-row seat to the financial journeys of entrepreneurs—and she’s made it her mission to demystify the numbers that drive success. Tanya and her team specialize in smart tax strategies, audit readiness, and best-practice bookkeeping—all designed to help entrepreneurs stop flying blind and start making powerful, informed decisions. In this episode, we dive into: 💸 Tax strategies every small business should know 📉 How to manage your finances when money is tight 🧾 The best software and systems to stay organized 🧠 Smart tips to prepare for tax season before it gets stressful If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by bookkeeping or unsure where to start with your finances, this conversation is packed with practical, actionable guidance you can use right now. Tune in and gain the clarity and confidence you need to take control of your financial future. #PrettyPowerfulPodcast #WomenInBusiness #TanyaAkimenko #GoldenAppleAgency #SmallBusinessTips #TaxSeasonReady #FinancialClarity #SmartMoneyMoves #BookkeepingMatters #EntrepreneurFinance #KnowYourNumbers

This week on the Pretty Powerful Podcast, I’m joined by the inspiring Amy Vale, Founder of For the Cubs—a company providing quality essentials for young children while bringing comfort and belonging to kids in foster care. ❤️ After undergoing foster care training, Amy realized there was a missing piece in the market—and in children’s hearts. She created Percy, a weighted plush bear named after her late grandfather, designed to offer the soothing comfort that every child deserves. Did you know that people need 8–12 hugs a day for emotional well-being? We ALL crave connection, acceptance, and a place to belong—especially children in foster care, who are often navigating tremendous change and uncertainty. In a world where human connection has suffered since COVID, Amy’s mission reminds us that small acts of comfort can make a profound difference. Tune in to hear Amy’s incredible journey, the story behind Percy, and how she’s making the world a softer, safer place for our youngest hearts. We discuss the foster care system, and our experiences with a broken process. #PrettyPowerfulPodcast #ForTheCubs #FosterCareAwareness #PercyTheBear #ComfortAndBelonging #EmotionalWellbeing #WomenInBusiness #ImpactfulEntrepreneurship #ChildrensWellness #HumanConnection

Storytelling is a unique skillset, and mastering it has the potential to elevate your career and your brand, On this week’s episode of the Pretty Powerful Podcast, I sit down with the magnetic Aleya Harris—two-time Speaker of the Year, transformative storytelling expert, and CEO of The Evolution Collective Inc. Aleya has shared her voice on over 125 podcasts, led 100+ stages, and now she’s dropping powerful insight with us 🔥 In this episode, we explore: ✨ How to turn personal experiences into captivating stories 🎙 Tips from her new book, Spark the Stage, on speaking with authenticity and impact 💫 Her wild and wonderful journey—from being Stevie Wonder’s private chef to leading Ayahuasca journeys in the Amazon 💡 Why your authentic voice is your greatest asset as a speaker, leader, and human If you’re building a brand, stepping into the spotlight, or ready to inspire others—this one is for YOU. #PublicSpeaking #AleyaHarris #SparkTheStage #AuthenticStorytelling #WomenInLeadership #PublicSpeakingTips #PersonalDevelopment #FlourishingEntrepreneur #SpeakWithPower #StorytellingForBusiness #prettypowerfulpodcast #podcast #femalepodcast #womanowned #femaleentrepreneur #entrepreneur #empowerment #inspirational #lifecoach #femaleboss #workingmom #fyp #femaleceo #femalefounder

Are you addicted to change? Or, are you resistant to change, and fall into the "because this is how it's alway been done" camp? This week on the Pretty Powerful Podcast, I’m joined by the incredible Daphne Leger, a trilingual global nomad and internationally recognized expert in change, innovation, and transformation. As the CEO of Atrevidea, Daphne helps organizations like LEGO, Meta, Pepsico, AT&T, and Chubb build the internal capacity to adapt, evolve, and lead through uncertainty. With over 8,000 visionary leaders impacted through her keynotes, workshops, and trainings, she is truly a force for purposeful innovation. In this episode, we dive into: 🔄 Why embracing change is no longer optional—it’s essential 🌱 How to cultivate innovation from the inside out 🔥 What it means to lead with curiosity, adaptability, and boldness 💡 Daphne’s unique take on using her “addiction to change” as a catalyst for growth—both personal and organizational This conversation is practical, inspiring, and exactly what you need if you're ready to shift from reactive to resilient. Tune in now to hear how YOU can spark meaningful change—in your life, your work, and your world. #PrettyPowerfulPodcast #InnovationLeadership #DaphneLeger #WomenInLeadership #ChangeMakers #ResilientLeadership #FutureOfWork #PersonalGrowth #GlobalLeadership #Atrevidea

On this week’s episode of the Pretty Powerful Podcast, I’m joined by the brilliant Paige Arnof-Fenn, Founder & CEO of Mavens & Moguls, a global branding and digital marketing firm whose clients include Microsoft, Virgin, The New York Times Company, Colgate, and more. Paige is not only a Stanford and Harvard Business School alum—she’s a branding powerhouse, board member, sought-after speaker, and a regular voice in Forbes and Entrepreneur. In this episode, we dive deep into: 💡 The power of authenticity and vulnerability in truly connecting with people 💡 Why consistency is everything when building a memorable and trusted brand 💡 Lessons from working with global icons and mission-driven startups alike 💡 How to tell your story in a way that resonates and inspires If you're building a brand, growing a business, or trying to make meaningful connections—this episode is for you. Listen now and get ready to level up your presence, purpose, and personal power. #PrettyPowerfulPodcast #WomenInBusiness #AuthenticBranding #PaigeArnofFenn #Leadership #VulnerabilityIsStrength #MarketingWithPurpose #PodcastRecommendation #MavensAndMoguls #PersonalBranding

On this episode of the Pretty Powerful Podcast, I sit down with Nancy Cavey, a fierce advocate for those fighting to receive the Social Security and Long-Term Disability benefits they deserve. Nancy’s passion for helping others stems from a deeply personal experience—watching her father battle leukemia and witnessing the emotional and financial toll of navigating the disability system. This experience shaped her into more than just an attorney; she is a relentless champion for those who have been unfairly denied benefits. As a nationally recognized disability attorney, author, and member of the National Organization of Social Security Claims Representatives (NOSSCR), Nancy has dedicated her career to guiding individuals through the complex claims process. In this conversation, we break down the biggest challenges claimants face, expose the hidden obstacles in the system, and discuss how advocacy can transform lives. Whether you're navigating a disability claim yourself or want to learn more about standing up for justice, this episode is packed with invaluable insights! #PrettyPowerfulPodcast #NancyCavey #DisabilityAdvocacy #SocialSecurityDisability #LegalHelp #Empowerment

On this episode of the Pretty Powerful Podcast, I sit down with the incredible Morgan DeNicola, a true force for global change. As the Executive Director of the DeNicola Family Foundation, Morgan is dedicated to transforming lives through world health, humanitarian recognition, conservation, and cultural diplomacy. She’s also the Vice Chairman of the Humpty Dumpty Institute (HDI), working closely with the U.S. Congress, United Nations, and international embassies to drive impactful dialogue and humanitarian initiatives worldwide. From leading Congressional delegations in Rwanda to spearheading mobile healthcare efforts in Africa, Morgan’s passion for service knows no bounds. In this conversation, we explore the power of recognizing those who give back, the importance of cultural diplomacy, and how one person’s vision can create a ripple effect across the globe. 💫 Tune in now to be inspired by Morgan’s journey and discover how we can all play a role in making the world a better place! #PrettyPowerfulPodcast #MorganDeNicola #GlobalImpact #HumanitarianWork #Leadership #CulturalDiplomacy

In this episode of Pretty Powerful, we sit down with Aquila Mendez-Valdez, the visionary Founder and CEO of Haute in Texas, an award-winning PR and Marketing agency based in San Antonio. Aquila brings her wealth of expertise to our discussion, sharing insights from her impressive career that has taken her to speaking engagements across the US, Europe, and Asia. Her thought leadership has earned recognition in Forbes, Newsweek, The Telegraph UK, Digiday, and PR on the Go, alongside numerous TV appearances and podcast features. Join us for a masterclass in modern PR as we explore: Whether you're a seasoned PR professional or an entrepreneur looking to elevate your brand's visibility, Aquila's practical wisdom and innovative approach will equip you with actionable insights to transform your marketing and public relations efforts. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from one of the industry's most dynamic voices!

What does it take to be an emotionally intelligent leader? Rhonda Parker Taylor—bestselling author, entrepreneur, and academic researcher—joins us to dive deep into the power of emotional intelligence in leadership and how it shapes success. As the author of Crossroads, a suspenseful fiction novel woven with real-life lessons on emotional intelligence, endorsed by J.J. Hebert and Mariel Hemingway, Rhonda masterfully blends storytelling with powerful leadership insights. As the founder of Intelligence Solutions, she provides research-backed training and business strategies to help leaders thrive. Currently pursuing her doctoral degree in business, Rhonda shares groundbreaking insights on: 🔹 How emotional intelligence impacts leadership and decision-making 🔹 The connection between storytelling and effective leadership 🔹 Lessons from Crossroads that translate to real-world success 🔹 Strategies for navigating business challenges with confidence This episode is packed with wisdom for entrepreneurs, leaders, and anyone striving to lead with purpose and clarity! #PrettyPowerfulPodcast #EmotionalIntelligence #Leadership #WomenInBusiness #SuccessMindset #Podcast #RhondaParkerTaylor #FictionWithImpact #prettypowerfulpodcast #podcast #femalepodcast #womanowned #femaleentrepreneur #entrepreneur #empowerment #inspirational #lifecoach #femaleboss #workingmom #fyp #femaleceo #femalefounder

How can businesses and communities come together to create real change? Abby McKiernan, founder of Spark in the Dark and co-founder of HelpLink, is on a mission to revolutionize philanthropy and community support. With a track record of empowering over 30,000 members and solving 100,000+ needs since 2017, Abby’s work is a testament to the power of connection and purpose-driven leadership. Named one of Northern Michigan’s "40 Under 40" and recognized as one of the region’s most influential women, Abby brings 12+ years of experience in marketing, PR, and nonprofit leadership to the table. In this episode, we dive into: ✨ How technology is transforming social impact ✨ The power of corporate philanthropy and employee-driven giving ✨ Lessons from building an award-winning nonprofit ✨ Strategies for creating lasting change in your community Join us for an inspiring conversation that will challenge the way you think about giving back and leading with purpose. #socialissues #marketing #communitysupport #PrettyPowerfulPodcast #WomenInBusiness #SocialImpact #Philanthropy #Leadership #Marketing #Nonprofit #Podcast #prettypowerfulpodcast #podcast #femalepodcast #womanowned #femaleentrepreneur #entrepreneur #empowerment #inspirational #lifecoach #femaleboss #workingmom #fyp #femaleceo #femalefounder

Join me as I sit down with Diane Helbig, an internationally recognized business and leadership advisor, award-winning author, and host of the Accelerate Your Business Growth podcast. 🎙️ Diane is a powerhouse when it comes to helping businesses grow constructively and profitably. She’s the author of Succeed Without Selling, Lemonade Stand Selling, and Expert Insights—books that challenge the traditional approach to business growth. As a certified coach and the president of Seize This Day, she helps professionals develop strategies tailored to their strengths for lasting success. Tune in as we dive into her unique approach to leadership, sales, and growth. You don’t want to miss this one! 🔥 #PrettyPowerfulPodcast #DianeHelbig #BusinessGrowth #Leadership #Entrepreneurship

Today, we’re thrilled to welcome Kelsey Wagner to the Pretty Powerful Podcast! 💪✨ Kelsey is a powerhouse entrepreneur, marketing strategist, and community leader making waves in Ponca City, Oklahoma. As the owner of MyMediaMatters Creative Agency, she’s been transforming businesses with cutting-edge marketing, branding, and digital strategies for over a decade. But Kelsey’s impact goes far beyond the business world—she’s a City Commissioner and is has just been elected Mayor of Ponca City, taking her leadership skills to a whole new level. In this episode, Kelsey shares: 🌟 Her journey as a bold entrepreneur and community leader 📈 Strategies for helping businesses grow and stand out 🗳️ What it’s really like to run for public office and how she’s navigating the challenges of campaigning 🤝 How politics and business can align to drive meaningful change ⏳ Tips for juggling entrepreneurship, civic leadership, and personal balance Kelsey’s story is a powerful testament to resilience, vision, and the impact of combining business savvy with civic responsibility. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a leader looking to make a difference, or just curious about the intersection of business and politics, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable insights. 🎧 Listen now on your favorite podcast platform and discover why Kelsey Wagner is a name to watch. #PrettyPowerfulPodcast #KelseyWagner #WomenInLeadership #Entrepreneurship #PoliticsAndBusiness #Trailblazer #KelseyForMayor

Are you a business owner feeling stagnant, uninspired, or unsure about what’s next? You’re not alone! Stephanie Hayes, founder of Assets to Exits, is on a mission to help established business owners move beyond revenue and start building real wealth—while planning for a successful exit. But here’s the secret: even if you’re not planning to sell, building your business as if you were can make it stronger, more efficient, and more profitable. In this Pretty Powerful Podcast episode, Stephanie and I dive into the strategies behind creating a roadmap for growth, so you can scale smarter, increase value, and set yourself up for long-term success—whether you exit or not. There are different types of exit strategy... including operational and financial... and Stephanie brilliantly walks through the benefits of each of them. Don’t miss this eye-opening conversation! 🎙️✨ #PrettyPowerfulPodcast #BusinessGrowth #Entrepreneurship #ExitStrategy #BuildWealth #ScaleSmarter

This week on the Pretty Powerful Podcast, I’m joined by the incredible Kerry Damiano—aka Ms. World Traveler! ✨🌍 With a passport full of stamps from 130+ countries and all 50 states, Kerry’s passion for travel, style, and shopping shines through in her web series and blog. A powerhouse in the pageant industry since 1981, she’s earned prestigious accolades, including the Legacy Award and titles like Best Pageant Coach, Best Pageant Judge, and Best Forever Titleholder at the Global Beauty Awards. Beyond pageantry, Kerry is a fashion and jewelry designer, a public speaking and runway coach, and the founder of "The Amazing Word"—a Scripture memorization ministry. Her journey is a true testament to passion, perseverance, and living life to the fullest. 🎙️ Don’t miss this inspiring episode! Tune in and let Kerry’s story ignite your wanderlust and confidence! ✈️💃✨ #PrettyPowerfulPodcast #KerryDamiano #MsWorldTraveler #PageantCoach #Fashion #Travel #Confidence #WomenWhoInspire