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.