If you have ever felt unwelcome, underestimated, or like the only woman in a room full of men who seem convinced you don’t belong—this episode is for you.

This week, I sit down with business advisor, speaker, and bestselling author Patty Azzarello, whose new book, Why Is She Still Here? My Ungraceful Journey from the Playground to the Boardroom tells the story of how she rose through some of the toughest, most male-dominated rooms in tech—all while battling social anxiety, subtle biases, and expectations so low she felt like she had to prove her right to exist in every meeting.

In this conversation, Patty and I talk about:

Not the marketing version—the emotional truth: what it feels like to be the woman people silently (or loudly) underestimate… and why Patty simply refused to leave.

Patty shares how every major step in her career was accompanied by fear—and why courage isn’t the absence of fear but the willingness to show up anyway.

Her brilliant, brave younger self shows up in the book for a reason—and Patty explains how reconnecting with the child you were before the world hurt you can unlock creativity, resilience, and truth.

Patty unpacks the 1963 “smart rat / stupid rat” experiment and connects it to modern corporate life in a way that will stop you in your tracks. (This one hit me hard.)

Patty shares stories, strategies, and the mindset that allowed her to keep standing, keep leading, and keep advancing.

Why being “all business” works—until it doesn’t. And how a simple, human question transformed Patty’s executive presence.

From romantic partners to friends to colleagues: who lifts you up, who drains you, and why managing your energy may matter more than managing your calendar.

• Patty’s Book: Why Is She Still Here? My Ungraceful Journey from the Playground to the Boardroom

• Patty on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pattyazzarello/

• Patty on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/patty.azzarello

My friend… if the close out of 2025 is leaving you feeling disoriented, stretched, hurried, or like that internet-famous cat with the eyes pointing in two different directions, you’re in the right place. This episode is your invitation to pause, breathe, and make meaning of a year that has been a lot. We are deeply seasonal creatures — we need endings, beginnings, rituals, and space to gather our strength before a new year sweeps us up.

Don’t have time to listen, but want to join in the fun? Head over to my Substack (bronwyncommunications.substack.com) and you’ll find each prompt, question, and reflection — all here for you to work through at your own pace, without needing to re-listen. Grab your pen, your calendar, and your coffee. Let’s reclaim your power, honor what 2025 taught you, and prepare your spirit for a bold, brave 2026.

What if authentic connection became the new gold standard for modern masculinity?

This week, I’m thrilled to bring you a conversation that weaves together the power of connection, vulnerability, and the active work of redefining and expanding our understanding of what it means to be a man.

My guest, Stephen Seidel—TEDx speaker, storyteller, brand strategist, and founder of the Gents Journey men’s collective—delivers on every level. His candor, humor, and depth make this an episode you’ll want to bookmark, share, and revisit.

• Connection as Currency: Steve and I dig into the idea that real, present-moment connection (”from the heart, not from the head”) is what fuels deep relationships, community, and leadership.

• The Stories We Tell: We explore how our inherited family stories, personal histories, and even first names shape our sense of self, and how reframing those stories can unlock new directions.

• “Growth Friends”: Stephen shares the genesis of his men’s group, the importance of “growth friends,” and the transformational power of safe, structured spaces where men can talk openly (about business, marriages, grief, and everything in between).

• Modern Masculinity, Redefined: Through honest dialogue, we unpick generational expectations around “manliness” and what true strength means. Vulnerability, emotional awareness, and making time for fun all have a place at the table.

• Toolkits for Change: Whether it’s the “Journey Deck” of conversation cards, weekly meetings with spouses, or exercises borrowed from The Artist’s Way, this episode is packed with practical tools you can try this week.

Helpful Links:

• Gent’s Journey Card Deck

• Men’s Group: GentsJourney.co

• TEDx Talk: https://rebrand.ly/seidelspeaking