Words of Wisdom from Kick-Ass Women

In this powerful episode of Words of Wisdom from Kick-Ass Women, host Liz Brohan sits down with global speaker and marketing leader Dorothy Rosen to explore one of the most fundamental human needs—belonging. This conversation is a must-listen for fans searching for podcasts for strong women, empowering women podcasts, and stories of bold women who inspire. Dorothy shares the deeply personal journey that led her to co-found the global women’s community Women Belong. After her husband experienced a severe illness followed by a cancer diagnosis, Dorothy spent years balancing caregiving, grief, and entrepreneurship. During that time, she realized something profound: while she had professional success, she lacked a meaningful community that offered emotional connection and support. That realization became the catalyst for Women Belong, an organization dedicated to helping women build authentic relationships, personal confidence, and entrepreneurial growth through community circles around the world. Liz and Dorothy dive into why so many women still wait for permission to claim their place in the room—and how the next generation of female leadership is redefining belonging. From early career experiences where women had to adopt “masculine masks” to fit into corporate culture, to the current rise of female-led networks, the episode highlights how far women have come and why community remains essential. Unlike traditional networking groups focused on transactions and sales, Women Belong emphasizes connection before commerce. Meetings begin with reflective quotes, encouraging women to share thoughts and personal insights before discussing business. The circles end with “gratitudes and brags,” helping women practice celebrating their wins and recognizing their value—something many women struggle to do publicly. The conversation also explores larger cultural shifts: the rise of feminine leadership, the power of vulnerability, and the importance of abundance thinking rather than scarcity. Dorothy explains how inviting women into community—sometimes simply by extending an invitation—can unlock confidence, opportunity, and collaboration. For listeners searching for an unapologetic women podcast, this episode is a reminder that belonging starts within ourselves—but grows exponentially when women lift each other up. Ultimately, Liz and Dorothy agree: when women gather with intention, vulnerability, and generosity, they create the conditions for lasting impact—not only in business, but in the world. Resources & References Mentioned Women Belong Man's Search for Meaning Being Mortal Neil deGrasse Tyson Marianne Williamson Highlihgt Quotes “Belonging begins with ourselves—but it grows when women gather and lift each other up.” “Networking shouldn’t start with a business card. It should start with a conversation about who you are.” “Women have been waiting for permission to belong. The truth? We were always invited.” “When women stop competing and start celebrating each other, everything changes.” “We are made of stardust—so why are we afraid to shine?” You can find us wherever you listen to podcasts or watch us on YouTube.

In this solo-hosted episode of Words of Wisdom from Kick‑Ass Women, Liz Brohan welcomes healer and lifelong learner Debbie Pietruzka for a deeply personal conversation about healing through curiosity and joy. Debbie shares her remarkable life journey—from 41 years as an occupational therapist to becoming a certified Healing Touch practitioner, hypnotherapist, aromatherapist, and leader of women’s circles. The conversation turns poignant as Debbie reflects on the sudden loss of her husband at age 45 and how that life-altering moment pushed her to choose between remaining in grief or embracing life as a “free spirit.” Through spiritual exploration, meditation, and unexpected experiences like Moon Lodge gatherings, Debbie began rediscovering joy and purpose. She also discusses her work with past-life regression and intuitive readings inspired by the teachings of Edgar Cayce, explaining how understanding patterns from past lives can help people grow spiritually and emotionally in the present. Debbie shares fascinating stories from her own regressions and client readings, exploring ideas such as “old souls,” soul lessons, and how curiosity can open new paths to healing. Ultimately, Debbie’s message is simple but powerful: joy doesn’t magically arrive—you must choose to seek it. By staying open, embracing curiosity, and trusting life’s serendipity, we can transform pain into growth and live more fully aligned lives. Resources & References Mentioned Edgar Cayce – The “Sleeping Prophet” known for intuitive readings and the concept of accessing the Akashic Records The Dragon Doesn’t Live Here Anymore by Alan Cohen Akashic Records – Spiritual concept described as a universal “book of life” Healing Touch – Energy-based therapeutic approach Debbie practices YMCA – Where Debbie spent decades teaching swimming and water exercise Highlight Quotes “Joy doesn’t arrive all at once. It shows up in sparks—moments of curiosity that slowly reopen your life.” “You can choose to live in grief forever… or choose to become the free spirit you were meant to be.” “When you stay curious about life, the universe has a funny way of opening doors you didn’t even know were there.” You can find us wherever you listen to podcasts or watch us on YouTube.

In this flavorful and fiercely inspiring episode of Words of Wisdom from Kick-Ass Women, Liz Brohan and Mary Olivier welcome author, professor, and leadership strategist Shanita Baraka Ante to the couch. A longtime professor at Columbia College Chicago and executive leadership alum of Harvard University, Shanita blends boardroom strategy with Southern storytelling from her book, The Front Porch Leader: Great Grand’s Recipe for Success. Drawing on lessons from her great-grandmother in Brinkley, Arkansas, Shanita shares how “front porch leadership” starts with listening, knowing your audience, and resisting the pressure of immediacy. Through rich metaphors—sweet potato pie problems that need time to bake and collard green challenges that require rinsing, repeating, simmering, and stirring—she reframes leadership as both strategic and soulful. The conversation explores mentorship, reverse mentorship, collaboration, and the power of quiet presence. Shanita reflects on early classroom missteps and how stepping back allowed others to shine—ultimately strengthening her own leadership impact. Her message is clear: leadership isn’t about dominating the stage. It’s about serving first, stirring thoughtfully, and preparing the next generation to lead. Pull up a rocking chair—this episode delivers wisdom with warmth, humor, and heart. 🔗Resources & References Mentioned The Front Porch Leader: Great Grand’s Recipe for Success by Shanita Baraka Ante Columbia College Chicago Harvard University Forbes (Contributor platform) The Motion Agency (Podcast sponsor) Highlight Quotes “You don’t have to be the sage on the stage—be the guide on the side.” “Sometimes leadership means letting the pie bake—and having the courage to stir the pot.” “Serve others first, listen deeply, and trust that your quiet presence can be your greatest power.” You can find us wherever you listen to podcasts or watch us on YouTube.

In this episode of Words of Wisdom From Kick-Ass Women, hosts Liz Brohan and Mary Olivieri tackle one of the most talked-about—and misunderstood—topics in modern work and life: boundaries. They’re joined by Rachel, a successful content creator, Twitch panelist, and Top 50 TikTok streaming creator, who brings a candid, real-world perspective from the front lines of online communities, creative work, and leadership.Rachel shares how boundaries shape the way people treat you, why they’re a form of self-love, and how failing to set them can lead to burnout, resentment, and lost identity—especially for recovering people-pleasers. The conversation explores parasocial relationships, oversharing online, navigating fan expectations, and setting firm but kind limits without losing connection. Rachel also opens up about learning to rest, listening to her body, and recognizing that people who resist boundaries are often the ones benefiting from their absence.Together, the hosts and Rachel discuss releasing relationships that no longer serve you, communicating boundaries clearly (especially in neurodiverse spaces), and redefining—not ending—relationships when needed. The episode wraps with a fun “keep it or tweak it” boundary game, reinforcing one powerful takeaway: healthy boundaries don’t push people away—they protect your energy, your worth, and your future. Resources & References MentionedTwitchCon – Industry conference for streamers and creatorsTikTok Top 50 Streaming Creators List – Recognition referenced in Rachel’s careerForbes – Mentioned as a perceived authority used to reinforce boundaries in professional settings Tweet-Length Highlight Quotes“Boundaries are self-love. The people most upset by them are usually the ones benefiting from their absence.”“You can be kind, polite, and firm at the same time—boundaries don’t require being harsh.”“The world won’t stop turning if you rest. You’re allowed to refill your cup.” You can find us wherever you listen to podcasts or watch us on YouTube.

In this episode of Words of Wisdom from Kick-Ass Women, hosts Liz Brohan and Mary Olivieri welcome marketing powerhouse turned entrepreneur Meg Goodman, CEO and founder of Flint Rock Studios. Meg shares a candid, funny, and deeply human conversation about what it really means to “be ready for success”—especially when you don’t know exactly what’s coming next.Drawing from a career that spans radio (including Chicago’s WXRT), award-winning leadership in the Chicago Association of Direct Marketing, and founding her own studio, Meg reframes readiness as confidence, curiosity, and connection—not perfection. She emphasizes trusting cumulative experience, asking for help, and avoiding “analysis paralysis,” while embracing small, situational wins along the way.The conversation dives into defining success on your own terms, navigating sexism with grace and gravitas, and why mentorship and human connection still matter in a world of Google and AI. Meg also shares formative lessons from her father about risk, courage, and believing you can—lessons that fueled her leadership style rooted in humility, calm, and grace.This episode is a reminder that success will come—and when it does, being open, prepared, and supported makes all the difference.Resources & References MentionedStephen Covey – Begin with the End in MindChicago Association of Direct Marketing (CADM)WXRT Chicago (Indie Rock Radio Station)Highlight Quotes“Being ready for success doesn’t mean having all the answers—it means trusting yourself enough to ask for help.”“Gravitas, humility, and grace: confidence without ego, leadership without fear.”“Success is situational. Sometimes it’s building a $20M company—sometimes it’s just finishing the mile.” You can find us wherever you listen to podcasts or watch us on YouTube.

In this heartfelt episode of Words of Wisdom from Kick-Ass Women, host Liz Brohan is joined by special co-host Mary Tobiason—Ironman World Champion and founder of Movement Perfected—for a powerful conversation about identity, empathy, and finding your voice.Their guests are award-winning children’s author Lori Orlinsky and her daughter Ellie, co-creators of the book Being Middle, which reclaims the often-misunderstood experience of being a middle child. What began as Ellie feeling “lost in the shuffle” between siblings became a collaborative, empowering storytelling journey that reframed the narrative from “stuck in the middle” to “I get to be in the middle.”The conversation explores how literature can help children process big emotions, celebrate differences, and build confidence. Lori shares how her books—many inspired directly by her children—have resonated far beyond her own family, including deeply moving moments reading to patients at Lurie Children’s Hospital. Ellie, meanwhile, reflects on how the book helped her embrace her role as a bridge-builder, helper, and leader at school.With humor, vulnerability, and wisdom from fellow middle children, this episode reminds parents, leaders, and kids alike that being seen—and truly listened to—can change everything.📚 Resources & References MentionedBeing Middle by Lori OrlinskyBeing Small by Lori OrlinskyLurie Children’s Hospital (Chicago) Highlight Quotes“You’re not stuck in the middle—you get to be in the middle. That’s power.” — Ellie“Stop parenting the child you had and start parenting the child you have.” — Lori Orlinsky“Everything in life is a ‘get to.’ Find the glimmers and choose gratitude.” — Mary Tobiason You can find us wherever you listen to podcasts or watch us on YouTube.

In this episode of Words of Wisdom from Kick-Ass Women, Liz Brohan and Mary Olivieri sit down with Cindy Greenglass — marketing leader, educator, and passionate board member of Honor Flight Chicago — for a powerful conversation about veteran advocacy, service, and purpose.Cindy shares the mission of Honor Flight Chicago, the largest Honor Flight program in the country, which has flown more than 12,000 World War II, Korean War, and Vietnam veterans to Washington, D.C. for a deeply moving “day of honor.” The experience often becomes a catalyst for healing, gratitude, and storytelling — especially for Vietnam veterans who were never thanked when they returned home.Beyond the flights, the organization now engages students and communities through Operation Education and veteran-story podcasts, helping younger generations understand the reality — not just the history — of military service. Cindy also highlights the powerful ripple effect on families, volunteers, and everyday people who witness the welcome-home celebrations.She reminds us that service comes in many forms — donations, time, skills, or simply thanking a veteran. And sometimes, saying “yes” to service unlocks unexpected passion and purpose. This inspiring conversation is a reminder that honoring those who served is about connection, gratitude, and humanity — and that every one of us has the power to make a difference. 3 Resources or References MentionedHonor Flight Chicago — https://www.honorflightchicago.orgOperation Education (Honor Flight Chicago classroom program) — via Honor Flight ChicagoDepartment of Defense Information School (DINFOS) — https://www.dinfos.dma.mil Highlight Quotes“A simple ‘thank you for your service’ can light up a veteran’s world — sometimes it’s the first time they’ve ever heard it.”“Honor Flight isn’t just a trip. It’s healing, storytelling, and a ripple of gratitude that spreads across generations.”“Service doesn’t always mean writing a check. Sometimes it’s your time, your talent — or your voice — that changes lives.” You can find us wherever you listen to podcasts or watch us on YouTube.

In this lively episode of Words of Wisdom from Kick-Ass Women, hosts Liz Brohan and Mary Olivieri dive into the complex, hilarious, and often exhausting world of modern love — and why more people are choosing to outsource it. Their guest, Lisa Goodman, a powerhouse matchmaker and VP at Selective Search, pulls back the curtain on why matchmaking isn’t old-fashioned at all — it’s strategic, safe, efficient, and deeply human.Lisa explains why dating apps leave people emotionally drained, overwhelmed by choice, and worried about their safety — and how professional matchmaking flips the script with vetted introductions, personal coaching, and post-date feedback. She walks listeners through why more men than women invest in matchmaking, why quality singles are so hard to meet “in the wild,” and why being open-minded is the #1 rule in modern dating.Packed with real success stories (including one woman who said “absolutely not” to a match — and then married him), this episode reminds us that perfection is an illusion, the right fit matters more than the right photo, and sometimes the best investment you can make… is in your love life. 🔗 ResourcesSelective Search Matchmaking – https://www.selectivesearch.comFilm: Am I OK? (Dakota Johnson) / “The Materialists” referenceBumble Dating App – https://bumble.com 💬Highlight Quotes“Stop looking for the perfect person — start looking for the perfect fit. There’s a lid for every pot.”“Dating apps give you endless options; matchmakers give you the right ones.”“Be open, say yes, and get out of your own way — love rarely shows up exactly how you expect.” You can find us wherever you listen to podcasts or watch us on YouTube.

In this gripping episode of Words of Wisdom from Kick-Ass Women, Liz and Mary sit down with former FBI agent, author, and mental-toughness expert LaRae Quy—a woman whose unlikely journey from a remote cattle ranch in Wyoming to the halls of Quantico shaped a lifetime of resilience, adaptability, and emotional mastery.LaRae walks listeners through the surprising through-line between ranch life, undercover work, and studying theology: the ability to understand yourself deeply and manage your emotions under pressure. She reframes mental toughness not as bravado or stoicism, but as emotional awareness paired with intentional action. Through dramatic stories—including a harrowing undercover encounter, a 20-foot dive with an M16 despite her fear of water, and her first solo arrest—LaRae shows how clarity, authenticity, and mindset can change outcomes in even the most dangerous moments.Listeners learn why self-awareness is the bedrock of courage, how to counter fear with five positive thoughts, and why authenticity is the most powerful tool in both field operations and boardrooms. LaRae’s lessons remind us that mental toughness isn’t loud—it’s strategic, grounded, and available to all of us. Resources MentionedSecrets of a Strong Mind by LaRae QuyMental Toughness for Women Leaders by LaRae QuyThe Mental Toughness Center – LaRaeQuy.com You can find us wherever you listen to podcasts or watch us on YouTube.

Show Notes – “Flipping the Script on Imposter Syndrome”Words of Wisdom from Kick-Ass Women PodcastIn this episode, hosts Liz Brohan and Mary Olivieri tackle a feeling most women know all too well—imposter syndrome. Joined by powerhouse guests Chris Harrington, Erin Courtney, and Lori Hghby hosts of The Broadcast for Manufacturers podcast, the group dives deep into how this self-doubt shows up, why it’s normal, and how to turn it into a source of strength.From faking it till you make it (but not really) to embracing the word “yet” as a growth mindset tool, these leaders share honest stories—from standing in front of C-suite executives to teaching college classes unprepared—and the lessons that helped them push through. Their wisdom? Preparation, community, gratitude, and giving yourself permission to belong.Whether you’re leading a team, starting a business, or stepping into a new role, this episode will help you flip that inner critic into an ally.Resources Mentioned:The Broadcast for Manufacturers podcast – thebroadcastpodcast.comCarol Dweck’s Mindset: The New Psychology of Success – penguinrandomhouse.comStrengthsFinder 2.0 by Tom Rath – gallup.comHighlight Quotes:“If you feel imposter syndrome, it means you’re growing—lean into it.” – Chris Harrington“Add the word ‘yet’ to your doubts. You can’t do it… yet.” – Liz Brohan“Show up, do the work, and leave people better than you found them.” – Lori Highby You can find us wherever you listen to podcasts or watch us on YouTube.

In this inspiring episode of Words of Wisdom from Kick-Ass Women, hosts Liz Brohan and Marie Newman sit down with award-winning journalist and filmmaker Mercedes Kane to explore the art of authentic storytelling, empathy, and trust-building. Mercedes—whose documentaries include Art and Pep and Breakfast at Ina’s—shares how vulnerability and genuine curiosity are key to capturing truth on camera.She discusses the making of Art and Pep, a moving portrayal of two Chicago LGBTQ+ activists and life partners who faced COVID together after decades of advocacy. Mercedes reveals how listening deeply, leading with empathy, and co-creating trust with her subjects turn everyday moments into extraordinary human stories.The conversation also previews her new project on Picher, Oklahoma, a town displaced by environmental disaster, and the community’s resilience expressed through an annual Christmas parade.Listeners will walk away with powerful lessons about collaboration, courage, and the transformative impact of listening.Resources Mentioned / References:Art and Pep Documentary – Daisy May FilmsBreakfast at Ina’s DocumentaryNational Geographic: “Memory Choirs” by Mercedes Kane💬 Highlight Quotes :“The best stories aren’t found—they’re co-created through empathy, trust, and deep listening.” — Mercedes Kane 🎬✨“Vulnerability is the bridge to truth. When people feel safe, their real story unfolds.” 💛 #KickAssWomen“The magic of storytelling lies in revealing how much more alike we are than different.” 🌍🎥 #WordsOfWisdomPod You can find us wherever you listen to podcasts or watch us on YouTube.

In this powerful episode of Words of Wisdom from Kick-Ass Women, hosts Liz Brohan and guest co-host Marie Newman sit down with journalist, political strategist, and firestarter Delmarie Cobb. Known as a “crusading journalist,” Delmarie shares her journey from producing on Sanford and Son to becoming a respected political operative and founder of Ida’s Legacy PAC.She takes us inside her early political influences, working with Jesse Jackson’s 1988 presidential campaign, and launching her consultancy that has helped elect influential leaders like Bobby Rush. Delmarie speaks candidly about what it means to speak truth to power, why discipline wins campaigns, and how women can step into leadership without waiting to be asked.Together, the trio tackles the structural and cultural barriers women face in politics—especially around confidence, fundraising, and public perception. Delmarie also makes a compelling case for the power of local politics as a launchpad for national influence, drawing inspiration from Kamala Harris’s trajectory.This is a masterclass in unapologetic activism, strategic savvy, and courage to lead.📚 Resources MentionedIda’s Legacy PAC — https://www.idaslegacypac.orgJesse Jackson 1988 Presidential Campaign ArchiveKamala Harris — Official biography and career timeline ✨ Highlight Quotes “Everything is a campaign. Disciplined campaigns win, undisciplined ones lose.” — Delmarie Cobb“Women can’t wait to be asked to run. Men don’t — they just decide and do it.” — Delmarie Cobb“Local politics is the springboard to national power. That’s where change begins.” — Delmarie Cobb You can find us wherever you listen to podcasts or watch us on YouTube.

In this episode of Words of Wisdom from Kick-Ass Women, host Liz Brohan sits down with Janet Vaan, publisher of Lincoln Way City Lifestyle and adjunct professor at Northern Illinois University, to explore how younger generations are redefining career growth. Instead of the traditional “climb the ladder” mindset, Janet introduces the concept of “crossing bridges”—a broader, more fluid way of navigating work, impact, and life. From Baby Boomers’ long-hour loyalty to Gen Z’s values-driven pursuit of impact, Janet shares her insights on shifting generational priorities, mental health awareness, and the merging of work and life. Together, Liz and Janet discuss why career progression today is less about rigid titles and more about building skills, embracing flexibility, and aligning work with purpose. Whether you’re early in your career or rethinking your path, this conversation will help you see new ways to define growth and success.3 Resources/References MentionedLincoln Way City Lifestyle – https://citylifestyle.comNorthern Illinois University MBA Program – https://www.niu.edu/mbaInc. 5000 Fastest-Growing Companies List – https://www.inc.com/inc5000 3 Highlight Quotes“Today’s careers aren’t about climbing the ladder—they’re about crossing bridges to new skills, roles, and impact.”“Gen Z isn’t chasing titles—they’re chasing purpose, impact, and work that aligns with their values.”“Leveraging human capital means more than filling roles—it’s about keeping people motivated, balanced, and inspired.” You can find us wherever you listen to podcasts or watch us on YouTube.

On this powerful episode of Words of Wisdom from Kick Ass Women, host Liz Brohan welcomes guest co-host Marie Newman—former Congresswoman, activist, author, and marketing executive—for a timely conversation with trailblazing leader Anna Dutra.Anna is a global board director, two-time CEO, and the first Latina and immigrant to serve on multiple Fortune 250 boards. With over 30 years of executive experience spanning public companies, private equity, and nonprofits, she brings unmatched insight into governance, strategy, and leading with courage.Together, Liz, Marie, and Anna dig into the urgent question: How do women stick their necks out for other women in a moment when hard-won progress is at risk? The conversation spans:Why women can’t afford to retreat on pay equity, reproductive rights, and representation.How personal stories—like Anna reshaping maternity leave policy—can spark systemic change.The importance of shifting the DEI narrative from ideology to business impact.Why resilience, creativity, and asking for help are essential leadership tools.The power of paying it forward by lifting up women for board seats, leadership roles, and opportunities.Marie shares lessons from her decades of activism and government leadership, while Anna underscores the urgency of unity, resilience, and showing that equity isn’t just the right thing—it’s good business.This episode is a rallying cry for women at every level: speak up, innovate, advocate for one another, and never settle for silence when progress is on the line.Resources & ReferencesHarvard Business Review – featuring Anna Dora’s insights on leadership and governance.Forbes – coverage of Anna’s work as a pioneering Latina executive.Life Made From Scratch – Marie Newman’s prescriptive memoir on creating change from the ground up.Highlight Quotes“Helping another woman succeed isn’t charity—it’s leadership. Pay it forward, always.”“Equity isn’t ideology. It’s smart business strategy that drives talent, growth, and resilience.”“This is not the time to retreat. It’s the moment to double down, speak up, and stick your neck out.” You can find us wherever you listen to podcasts or watch us on YouTube.

Life doesn’t always follow a straight path—and sometimes the biggest challenges come when you least expect them. In this episode of Words of Wisdom from Kick-Ass Women, hosts Liz Brohan and Mary Olivieri welcome former Congresswoman, nonprofit CEO, serial entrepreneur, and activist Marie Newman for a candid conversation about what it means to pivot when life throws you curveballs.Marie’s journey is one of resilience and reinvention. She shares how deeply personal experiences—including her son’s struggles with bullying, her daughter’s journey as a transgender teen, and her own time in Congress—shaped not only her advocacy but also her leadership style. Each moment required a reset, a reevaluation, and a bold step forward.The conversation dives into the parallels between fictional heroines and real women who must constantly adapt, highlighting how resilience isn’t about avoiding setbacks but about navigating them with clarity and courage. Marie offers tangible advice for anyone facing upheaval: how to start small, find your footing, and rebuild momentum after a setback.Listeners will also hear insights from her new book, A Life Made from Scratch, which weaves together her personal story with lessons for women everywhere who’ve had to “pivot fast” when life had other plans. This episode is filled with wisdom, humor, and practical strategies for anyone who’s ever had to pick themselves up, dust themselves off, and keep going.If you’ve ever wondered how to turn a “WTF moment” into a stepping stone, Marie’s words will inspire you to keep moving—even when the path is anything but straight. Resources A Life Made from Scratch by Marie Newman – [Book link placeholder] Highlight Quotes “Life doesn’t happen in straight lines—it happens in pivots. The power is in how we respond.” – Marie Newman“You don’t need to move mountains overnight. Start small, but start real.” – Marie Newman“Setbacks don’t define you—how you rebuild after them does.” – Marie Newman You can find us wherever you listen to podcasts or watch us on YouTube.

You can find us wherever you listen to podcasts or watch us on YouTube.

You can find us wherever you listen to podcasts or watch us on YouTube.

You can find us wherever you listen to podcasts or watch us on YouTube.