Episodios

  • Mindful Parenting in a Modern World | Sarah Ezrin | Author, Yoga Educator & Maternal Mental Health Advocate
    Jul 30 2025
    Sarah Ezrin is redefining what modern parenting can look like. A yoga instructor, educator, maternal mental health advocate, and author of The Yoga of Parenting, Sarah brings mindfulness and realism to the often chaotic world of raising kids. In this episode, Kara and Sarah dive into the emotional rollercoaster of parenthood, the pressure to “do it all,” and why building your own village is more essential than ever. You’ll hear how Sarah blends yoga principles into parenting, what it means to maintain your identity as a parent, and why support systems in the U.S. are failing families. This conversation covers parenting as a spectrum, practical self-care, and how to stay grounded even when life gets messy. 00:00 Introduction to the Powerful Ladies Podcast 01:14 Meet Sarah Ezrin: Yoga Instructor and Maternal Mental Health Advocate 02:39 Sarah's Journey to Motherhood 04:01 The Challenges of Modern Parenthood 07:02 The Power of Women and Community 14:11 Understanding Female Rhythms and Productivity 22:59 Sarah's Childhood and Early Struggles 26:49 The True Essence of Yoga 29:15 Ancient Yoga Practices 29:45 Modern Yoga and Commoditization 31:28 Personal Yoga Journey 33:11 Yoga and Parenting 33:30 Writing 'The Yoga of Parenting' 41:08 Powerful Ladies and Empowerment 45:42 Balancing Life and Business 51:18 Connecting and Sharing Wisdom 56:27 Conclusion and Final Thoughts The Powerful Ladies podcast, hosted by business coach and strategist Kara Duffy features candid conversations with entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, chefs, writers, scientists, and more. Every Wednesday, new episodes explore what it means to lead with purpose, create with intention, and define success on your own terms. Whether you're growing a business, changing careers, or asking bigger questions, these stories remind you: you're not alone, and you're more powerful than you think. Explore more at thepowerfulladies.com and karaduffy.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    1 h y 5 m
  • What If Love Is the Only Answer? | Hillary Whittington | Author, Transgender Advocate, and Mother
    Jul 23 2025
    Hillary Whittington is an author, transgender advocate, and mom who never expected her life to become a beacon of hope for families with trans children. In this deeply personal episode, Kara and Hillary explore the realities of parenting a young trans child in a conservative community, navigating deafness and gender identity, and choosing love over fear—every single day. Hillary shares her family’s journey with grace and honesty, from her son Ryland’s early words, "I am a boy", to becoming a public advocate, even in the face of serious threats. This conversation is for anyone who wants to better understand the trans experience, for parents trying to support their kids, and for all of us who believe in leading with compassion, curiosity, and courage. Time Stamps: 00:00 – The Start of Hillary’s Story 02:00 – Parenting Through the Unknown 05:00 – Acceptance, Faith, and Family Tensions 08:00 – The Turning Point 12:00 – Reframing the Narrative 15:00 – The Reality Behind Trans Debates 20:00 – The Hidden Trans Community 27:00 – The Risk of Speaking Up 31:00 – Support, Strength, and Real Community 36:00 – What It Means to Be a Powerful Lady The Powerful Ladies podcast, hosted by business coach and strategist Kara Duffy features candid conversations with entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, chefs, writers, scientists, and more. Every Wednesday, new episodes explore what it means to lead with purpose, create with intention, and define success on your own terms. Whether you're growing a business, changing careers, or asking bigger questions, these stories remind you: you're not alone, and you're more powerful than you think. Explore more at thepowerfulladies.com and karaduffy.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    1 h y 1 m
  • Empowerment Through Health and Wellness | Coach LaLa | Founder of Thrive Help Lab
    Jul 16 2025
    La Niecia Vicknair, known as Coach LaLa, is a fitness trainer, founder of Thrive Health Lab, and a passionate advocate for building healthier communities, especially for people of color and teens. In this heartfelt conversation, she and Kara dive into her journey from growing up in an overweight family to creating a safe, empowering space where health is about so much more than just working out. They explore the difference between athletic performance and true wellness, the mental and emotional transformation that comes with physical strength, and the real challenges of balancing mission-driven work with financial realities. Coach LaLa shares why setting boundaries is essential to avoid burnout and how prioritizing self-care allows her to support others more deeply. This episode is a powerful look at community, healing, and redefining what it means to thrive. 00:00 Creating a Community of Health and Wellness 00:22 Introduction to The Powerful Ladies Podcast 00:35 The Power of Proximity 02:34 Meet Coach Lala 02:43 Coach Lala's Journey and Mission 05:24 The Importance of Busing Programs 06:47 Proximity and Community Impact 10:30 Athletics vs. Health and Fitness 18:27 Balancing Empowerment and Business 24:33 Experience and Burnout 25:46 Transitioning from Trainer to Coach 26:07 Health Over Diets 29:46 Navigating Fitness Trends 35:28 Empowering Clients 40:11 Defining Power and Womanhood 44:29 Future Goals and Manifestations 46:44 Conclusion and Gratitude The Powerful Ladies podcast, hosted by business coach and strategist Kara Duffy features candid conversations with entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, chefs, writers, scientists, and more. Every Wednesday, new episodes explore what it means to lead with purpose, create with intention, and define success on your own terms. Whether you're growing a business, changing careers, or asking bigger questions, these stories remind you: you're not alone, and you're more powerful than you think. Explore more at thepowerfulladies.com and karaduffy.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    50 m
  • Navigating Art, Identity, and Mental Health with Ragni Agarwal
    Jul 9 2025
    In this episode, artist and designer Ragni Agarwal shares how she found freedom and healing through bold, vibrant art. Ragni is an Indian American fine artist and graphic designer based in Los Angeles, who shares her journey from tech to a professional art career, the mental health benefits of creating art, and the challenges of being a female artist of color in today's climate. Hear about her vibrant art style, collaborations with notable brands like Hulu and Bombay Sapphire, and her dedication to making her art a safe space for all women. Discover how Ragni balances creativity with survival and her thoughts on the current political landscape and its impact on the creative community. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about resilience, vulnerability, and finding joy in making art. 00:00 Introduction to Ragni Agarwal 00:21 Challenges of Being an Artist Today 01:01 Ragni's Artistic Journey 01:31 Connecting Through Art 01:56 Starting the Conversation 04:03 The Role of Mental Health in Art 06:42 Balancing Art and Survival 09:51 The Influence of Politics on Art 13:02 The Power of Color 16:15 Cultural Influences and Inspirations 19:39 Safety and Expression in Art 23:37 Addressing Social Issues and Frustrations 24:46 Defining Powerful Ladies 25:34 Finding Inspiration and Building Community 27:40 Embracing Vulnerability in Art 29:18 Advice for Aspiring Artists 30:53 Navigating the Challenges of Being an Artist 39:41 The Importance of Storytelling in Art 45:14 Manifesting Future Goals 45:54 Conclusion and Farewell The Powerful Ladies podcast, hosted by business coach and strategist Kara Duffy features candid conversations with entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, chefs, writers, scientists, and more. Every Wednesday, new episodes explore what it means to lead with purpose, create with intention, and define success on your own terms. Whether you're growing a business, changing careers, or asking bigger questions, these stories remind you: you're not alone, and you're more powerful than you think. Explore more at thepowerfulladies.com and karaduffy.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    56 m
  • The Art of Event Planning with Tiffany Bishop
    Jul 2 2025
    What does it look like to turn a winding, unconventional path into a thriving creative career? In this episode of the Powerful Ladies® Podcast, host Kara Duffy sits down with Tiffany Bishop, a celebrated wedding and event designer based in Naperville, Illinois. Tiffany shares her inspiring journey of transformation—from studying fashion in the UK, to working in Chicago real estate, to finally discovering her true calling in event planning. Her story is a powerful reminder that success is rarely linear and that every twist and turn can fuel your next big leap. Together, Kara and Tiffany dive into the art of designing unforgettable experiences and the importance of tuning into what truly lights you up. Tiffany reflects on the challenges and triumphs of pivoting industries, building a business, and trusting your gut—even when the path feels risky or “crazy.” They explore the power of creativity, courage, and resilience in entrepreneurship, and the crucial role of managing client relationships and expectations. Tiffany also opens up about the emotional side of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the balance between delivering exceptional work and caring for your own well-being. This episode is a celebration of bold moves and fearless reinvention. Whether Tiffany is crafting luxurious high-rise events or intricate, story-driven tablescapes, her passion for creating moments of magic shines through. Join us for an empowering conversation that will inspire you to embrace your own unique journey, redefine success on your terms, and remember that it’s never too late to follow what sets your soul on fire. (00:00:02) - Introduction to Passion and Reinvention (00:00:47) - Meet Tiffany Bishop: From Fashion to Event Design (00:01:47) - Embracing Pivots and Big Career Changes (00:03:59) - The Challenges and Joys of Event Planning (00:04:35) - Crafting Magical Tablescapes and Signature Designs (00:06:32) - Memorable Client Stories and Unexpected Requests (00:11:28) - Personal Growth and Entrepreneurial Lessons (00:24:32) - Navigating Business Risks and Rewards (00:37:50) - Balancing Passion with Self-Care (00:45:16) - Final Reflections and Takeaways The Powerful Ladies podcast, hosted by business coach and strategist Kara Duffy, features candid conversations with entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, chefs, writers, scientists, and more. Every Wednesday, new episodes explore what it means to lead with purpose, create with intention, and define success on your own terms. Whether you're growing a business, changing careers, or asking bigger questions, these stories remind you: you're not alone, and you're more powerful than you think. Explore more at thepowerfulladies.com and karaduffy.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    53 m
  • Rethinking Media Strategy with Intention and Impact | Jhara Valentini | Founder & President of Valentini Media Group
    Jun 25 2025
    How do you build a media agency that works with Louis Vuitton, Goop, and Disney? Jhara Valentini, founder of Valentini Media Group, breaks down her approach to strategic marketing, repeatable ROI, and creating campaigns rooted in psychology and integrity. Kara and Jhara talk about what makes the luxury consumer different, how to lead with values, and why data is your best business partner. (00:00:01) - Introduction to Jhara Valentini and Her Journey (00:02:16) - Transition from Psychology to Marketing (00:03:14) - Building Relationships in Luxury Marketing (00:05:10) - The Importance of Intentional Marketing (00:07:58) - The Role of Data in Marketing Strategies (00:16:42) - Jhara's Hiring Philosophy and Company Culture (00:05:34) - Aligning Business Success with Personal Wealth (01:02:12) - Closing Thoughts and Future Aspirations The Powerful Ladies podcast, hosted by business coach and strategist Kara Duffy features candid conversations with entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, chefs, writers, scientists, and more. Every Wednesday, new episodes explore what it means to lead with purpose, create with intention, and define success on your own terms. Whether you're growing a business, changing careers, or asking bigger questions, these stories remind you: you're not alone, and you're more powerful than you think. Explore more at thepowerfulladies.com and karaduffy.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    1 h y 8 m
  • What Civic Power Really Means: A Powerful Conversation with Cara Stewart
    Jun 18 2025
    Civic power is something we all have...but are we using it? In this special installment of A Powerful Conversation, Kara Duffy sits down with Cara Stewart, CEO of WunderMarx and Chair of the Costa Mesa Democratic Club, to explore how everyday people can reclaim their voice in today’s political landscape. They talk about the myth of neutrality, the loneliness of civic overwhelm, and the real actions citizens and small businesses can take now, from voting and volunteering to amplifying truth and staying engaged. This episode explores civic power, community action, and the role of purpose-driven leadership in a changing democracy. (00:00:00) - Introduction to Civic Action and Political Engagement (00:00:02) - The Importance of Civil Discourse in Democracy (00:00:05) - Challenges in Political Participation Today (00:00:09) - Understanding Orange County's Political Landscape (00:00:12) - Civic Engagement and Volunteerism in Communities (00:00:15) - Actionable Steps for Civic Involvement (00:00:20) - The Role of Individuals in Democracy (00:00:25) - Encouragement to Take Action and Make a Difference The Powerful Ladies podcast, hosted by business coach and strategist Kara Duffy features candid conversations with entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, chefs, writers, scientists, and more. Every Wednesday, new episodes explore what it means to lead with purpose, create with intention, and define success on your own terms. Whether you're growing a business, changing careers, or asking bigger questions, these stories remind you: you're not alone, and you're more powerful than you think. Explore more at thepowerfulladies.com and karaduffy.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    59 m
  • Parenting Through Transition and Leading with Empathy | Amber Hollowell | TransParents Podcast & Advocate for Trans Rights
    Jun 11 2025
    Amber Hollowell is a healthcare advocate, proud mom, and the co-founder of TransParents Podcast, a platform for supporting parents of trans and gender-diverse children.. She and Kara talk about turning personal pain into purpose, trusting your path, and making impact without losing yourself in the process. They break down misinformation, explore the emotional toll of political fear-mongering, and highlight what real advocacy looks like: in the hospital, in legislation, and at home. This conversation is a powerful guide for anyone showing up for trans kids, navigating healthcare systems, or rethinking what it means to lead with love. 00:00:06) - Introduction to Amber Hollowell and Her Advocacy Work (00:00:42) - Amber's Journey into Trans Advocacy (00:02:19) - Understanding Gender Diversity vs. Transgender (00:03:47) - Amber's Perspective on Parental Rights and Advocacy (00:05:00) - The Impact of Political Climate on Trans Rights (00:07:24) - The Media's Role in Shaping Public Perception (00:09:00) - The Importance of Empathy in Healthcare (00:12:00) - The Need for Open Conversations about Trans Rights (00:17:30) - The Future of Trans Rights Advocacy (00:21:00) - Navigating Fear and Anxiety as a Parent (00:49:55) - Being a Supportive Ally for Trans Children The Powerful Ladies podcast, hosted by business coach and strategist Kara Duffy features candid conversations with entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, chefs, writers, scientists, and more. Every Wednesday, new episodes explore what it means to lead with purpose, create with intention, and define success on your own terms. Whether you're growing a business, changing careers, or asking bigger questions, these stories remind you: you're not alone, and you're more powerful than you think. Explore more at thepowerfulladies.com and karaduffy.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    1 h y 1 m