Welcome to The Power Lounge, the platform where women shaping the digital landscape share their experiences. In "Your Edge in the Age of AI," host Amy Vaughan engages with Monica Froese, founder of Empowered Business and a leader in digital strategy and AI innovation. Monica discusses her personal journey—from overcoming a divorce and single motherhood to establishing a seven-figure business—while effectively utilizing AI to regain her time and mental focus.

Many find the surge of AI both exciting and daunting. Monica illustrates her transformation from initially overlooking AI tools like ChatGPT to embedding them into her professional and personal routines. This adoption revolutionized aspects such as meal planning, email management, business operations, and parenting responsibilities. The discussion offers actionable strategies for women aiming to harness AI to save time, reduce decision fatigue, and enhance their influence without experiencing burnout.

Whether you're managing a team, running your own enterprise, or balancing daily responsibilities, this conversation will reshape your perception of AI. Discover how to leverage AI as a strategic asset to work more efficiently and reclaim control over your time.

Chapters:
00:00 – Overwhelmed by ChatGPT Launch
06:02 – From Google to ChatGPT Transition
08:41 – AI as Accountability Partner
10:43 – Personalized Writing Style Guide Creation
14:29 – Choosing the Right LLM
17:39 – Empowering Women in Corporate Tech
21:03 – AI: The Small Business Equalizer
24:15 – Business Efficiency via AI Team
27:32 – AI as Collaborative Assistant
30:58 – Building High-Converting Digital Products
36:08 – Authenticity Lies Within the User
37:04 – Human Connection in Digital Age
42:07 – Multi-Channel Content Distribution
44:34 – Conversational Prompting Effectiveness
47:32 – Effective Prompting: Finding the Use Case
51:18 – Empowering Women: AI's Evolving Role
53:45 – AI Aiding Women in Divorce
59:38 – Technology as Empowerment Tool
01:00:25 – Keep Asking, Keep Growing

Quotes:
"Let technology empower you. Start small, experiment, and reclaim your time."- Amy Vaughan

"AI lightens your mental load, frees your time, and enables you to be your best self."- Monica Froese

Key Takeaways:
Overcoming the Overwhelm
AI: Your Mental Load Buster
Just Start with One Tool
Train Your Digital “Mini-Mes”
AI as the Ultimate Equalizer
From Burnout to Boundaries
Authenticity Still Reigns
AI for Everyday Empowerment
Try, Play, and Grow

Connect with Monica Froese:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/monicafroese/
Website:https://monicafroese.com/

Connect with the host Amy Vaughan:
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/amypvaughan
Podcast:Power Lounge Podcast - Together Digital

Learn more about Together Digital and consider joining the movement by visitingHome - Together Digital

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Welcome to The Power Lounge. This week, host Amy Vaughan sits down with Holly Fisher, founder and CEO of Fisher Creative Marketing and a certified “Unreasonable Hospitality” coach. They explore how hospitality can become a key marketing strategy, even in an era dominated by automation and AI.

Holly shares her transition from traditional marketing to embracing hospitality as a core business approach. Through practical examples, Amy and Holly demonstrate how sincere, thoughtful gestures can drive word-of-mouth referrals, enhance client loyalty, and differentiate your business across various industries and sizes—all without significant costs or time investments.

If you’re aiming to convert customers into dedicated advocates or want to understand the impact of small, deliberate actions, this episode provides actionable insights. Join us in The Power Lounge to learn how hospitality can elevate your marketing efforts.

Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction
01:30 - Value-Driven Marketing Conversation
05:18 - "Human-Centric Customer Experience Strategy"
07:52 - Accessible Hospitality for All Businesses
12:01 - Intentional Scheduling for Connection
13:58 - Glove Box Surprise Gesture
19:51 - Connecting Remotely Through Thoughtful Gestures
23:40 - Redefining Hospitality Beyond Service
24:57 - "Managing Project Touchpoints Post-Completion"
29:53 - Unreasonable Hospitality in Practice
30:53 - The Power of Listening in Business
36:44 - "Small Steps for Big Changes"
40:21 - "Effective Messaging Beats Viral Hype"
41:49 - "Collaborative Women, Sacred Space"
44:56 - Disney Map Mishap Resolution
47:38 - Everyone's in Hospitality
49:12 - Outro

Quotes:
"Hospitality isn’t about surprise and delight as a one-off tactic; it’s a mindset that consistently makes people feel valued."- Amy Vaughan

“We’re all in the hospitality business. No matter your industry, it’s the small, intentional gestures that turn customers into lifelong advocates.”- Holly Fisher

Key Takekaways:
Human Connection is Your Secret Weapon
Hospitality = Marketing
Small Gestures, Big Impact
Active Listening is Everything
Systematize Kindness Without Losing Heart
Digital Doesn’t Mean Distant
Hospitality is Everyone’s Business
Play the Long Game

Connect with Holly Fisher:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hollyannfisher/
Website:https://fisher-creative.com/

Connect with the host Amy Vaughan:
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/amypvaughan
Podcast:Power Lounge Podcast - Together Digital

Learn more about Together Digital and consider joining the movement by visitingHome - Together Digital

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Welcome back to The Power Lounge, a space dedicated to meaningful conversations with industry leaders. In today’s episode, "Empower Your Team with Responsible AI," host Amy Vaughan, Together Digital’s Chief Empowerment Officer, explores a critical challenge for digital teams: adopting AI responsibly without compromising ethical standards.

Joining Amy is Nikki Ferrell, Associate Director of Online Enrollment and Marketing Communications at Miami University. Nikki has been instrumental in launching an AI steering committee to manage the swift integration of generative AI in higher education. Together, they examine the potential risks of unmanaged AI use, the importance of establishing clear policies, and how continuous learning and experimentation can cultivate ethical and innovative teams.

Whether you’re a team leader, a business owner, or simply interested in the complexities of AI, this episode offers a practical framework for implementing technology that prioritizes people, purpose, and ethics. Gain actionable insights and hear real-world experiences right here on The Power Lounge.

Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction
01:24 - AI's Impact: Unprepared Marketing Practices
05:08 - Creating AI Steering Committees
09:32 - Normalize Open AI Use at Work
14:42 - Adopting AI for Organizational Success
16:30 - Take Initiative to Lead
21:00 - Cautious Marketing on Mother's Day
25:25 - AI in Education: Gen Z & Alpha Hesitations
29:19 - "AI as Amplifying Tool"
30:55 - AI's Impact on Cognitive Skills
36:31 - AI Augments, Not Replaces, Workforce
38:30 - "Embracing Tech Amidst Red Tape"
41:45 - "Responsible AI Adoption Insights"
44:19 - AI Use Case Library Development
48:03 - Embracing AI for Strategic Future
51:01 - Exploring AI for Everyday Tasks
54:58 - AI-Assisted Strategy Development
58:51 - Subscribe for Updates & Community
59:45 - Outro

Quotes:
"Empowerment begins when we stop being afraid of new technology and start building community around it."- Amy Vaughan

"You don’t need a title to lead the way with AI—start small, learn together, and let your curiosity spark real change."- Nikki Ferrell

Key Takeaways
Start Small, Stay Grounded in Research
Policies Aren’t Optional—They Empower
Openness Overgoing Underground
You Don’t Need a Title to Lead
Align with Mission and Values
Build a Culture of Experimentation
Transparency Builds Trust (and Avoids Backlash)
AI Augments, Not Replaces
Meet People Where They Are
The Future is Collaborative

Connect with Nikki Ferrell:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nferrell/
Website: https://miamioh.edu/

Connect with the host Amy Vaughan:
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/amypvaughan
Podcast:Power Lounge Podcast - Together Digital

Learn more about Together Digital and consider joining the movement by visitingHome - Together Digital

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Welcome back to The Power Lounge—where real talk meets real transformation. In this episode, “Monetize Your Niche,” host Amy Vaughan, Chief Empowerment Officer at Together Digital, is joined by the remarkable Ann McNeil: master strategist, transformational speaker, and founder of MCO Construction and Services—one of Florida’s pioneering Black woman-owned construction firms.

Ann brings decades of insight and unshakable mindset to the mic as she recounts her powerful journey from being “broken and broke” to building a legacy rooted in vision, discipline, and faith. With a deep commitment to helping others do the same, she breaks down how narrowing your focus and choosing your niche with intention can unlock purpose-driven success.

This episode is a masterclass in self-belief, financial empowerment, and daily discipline—from the power of journaling to shifting scarcity mindsets. Whether you’re just starting out or ready to level up, Ann offers timeless strategies to help you claim your value and monetize your mission. Tune in and get ready to step into alignment, abundance, and action.

Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction
00:10 - "Power Lounge: Conversations with Trailblazers"
04:02 - Pivotal Moment: Reading to Riches
07:53 - Handmade Budgeting Realization
10:48 - Avoiding Truth Limits Personal Growth
13:44 - Craft Expertise and Business Operations
17:55 - Choosing the Right Specialist Matters
22:21 - Empowering Women in Micro-Investing
24:17 - "Desire: The First Principle"
27:23 - Embracing Diverse Career Paths
32:12 - Aligning Purpose with Prosperity
34:03 - Event Coordinator Plagiarizes Work
39:22 - Mindset: Embrace Challenges Positively
40:58 - Client-Centric Business Solutions
43:24 - Focus on Finding Your Niche
48:38 - "Investment Club Success Stories"
50:38 - Generational Financial Empowerment
53:07 - Family Finance Education Opportunities
57:19 - Group Me Link for Accountability
59:59 - Next Week's Talk: AI Empowerment
01:00:28 - Outro

Quotes:
"To turn dreams into reality, cultivate a strong mindset, embrace hard work, and believe you deserve more."- Ann McNeil

"Transformation begins within—face the truths, embrace your desires, and leap forward."- Amy Vaughan

Key Takeaways
Your Niche is Your Power Move
Transformation Starts with Clarity (and Honesty)
Your Mindset is the Deciding Factor
Intentionally Connect Purpose and Profit
Master the Five Niches of Business
Make Your Money Work For You
Daily Dates with Yourself = Lasting Success
Scarcity is a Mindset, Not a Number
Community and Collaboration Are Multipliers
Success is Not Accidental—It is Intentional

Connect with Ann McNeil:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annmcneillmasterbuilder/
Website: https://annmcneill.com/

Connect with the host Amy Vaughan:
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/amypvaughan
Podcast:Power Lounge Podcast - Together Digital

Learn more about Together Digital and consider joining the movement by visiting Home - Together Digital

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Welcome back to The Power Lounge! I'm Amy Vaughan, and this week, I'm thrilled to welcome Seema Giri—an international bestselling author, wellness and leadership expert, and founder of UpLyft Media. Seema will share her inspiring journey from battling a debilitating illness to achieving success without experiencing burnout. Together, we'll explore what it truly means to redefine success for high-achieving women who balance demanding careers, family, and the drive to excel, often at the expense of their wellbeing.

In our conversation, Seema recounts her six-year struggle before receiving an autoimmune diagnosis and how she discovered a new approach to self-leadership and healing. We'll challenge the notion that productivity requires personal sacrifice, delve into the cultural factors contributing to burnout, and uncover how listening to your body's wisdom can help you set boundaries, cultivate joy, and implement lasting change.

You'll gain valuable insights, science-backed tips, and practical strategies—from body scans to box breathing—that offer a roadmap for thriving on your own terms. Whether you're managing a never-ending to-do list or seeking a better balance between ambition and self-care, this episode provides advice to help you transition from burnout to balance.

Seema Giri brings over 30 years of leadership experience, guiding hundreds of women to publish, speak, and lead with confidence. As the founder of UpLyft Media and Chief Growth Officer at Upbuild Global Inc., she empowers purpose-driven entrepreneurs to transform their personal stories into bestselling books and powerful brands.

Join us as we uncover the secrets to succeeding without sacrificing your health or soul. Don't miss this enlightening conversation on The Power Lounge.

Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction
02:05 - "Empowering Success Without Sacrifice"
09:26 - Autoimmune Insights and Advocacy
10:32 - Pregnancy's Unexpected Physical Changes
15:46 - Easing Back Into Meditation
23:29 - Grounding Techniques for Stress Relief
26:42 - Breathing Techniques for Stress Relief
33:44 - "Origins and Self-Awareness"
40:25 - "Benefits of Saying No"
45:13 - Leadership Trap: Stuck in the Weeds
52:37 - Listening to Your Body After 40
53:59 - Prioritizing Family Presence
01:01:55 - Together Digital Podcast Highlights
01:02:48 - Outro

Quotes:
"Wellness and success are allies, creating a life worth living."- Amy Vaughan

"Support others first, then lead yourself. Create your story one step at a time."- Seema Giri

Connect with Seema Giri
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seemagiri/
Website:https://uplyft.media/

Connect with the host Amy Vaughan:
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/amypvaughan
Podcast:Power Lounge Podcast - Together Digital

Learn more about Together Digital and consider joining the movement by visitingHome - Together Digital

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Welcome back to The Power Lounge. Today, host Amy Vaughn welcomes Kate Reed, partner at Project 300 and a dedicated advocate for working mothers. Kate’s career journey spans from an English major at the University of Cincinnati to roles in nonprofit arts, commercial printing, leadership development, and pediatric healthcare—all while raising three children, including surprise twins.

Amy and Kate explore the challenges of balancing a successful career with family responsibilities, addressing how the term "stay-at-home mom" often overlooks the significant contributions and workload involved in parenting. Kate shares her experiences managing the logistical and emotional demands of motherhood, the financial strain of childcare, and how she redefined success on her own terms. From fitting work into nap times to leading an agency built on flexibility and trust, Kate demonstrates how working moms can achieve both personal fulfillment and professional ambition.

Kate Reed's story proves that women can define success without compromising their family life, offering valuable insights for those looking to integrate business and motherhood effectively.

Bonus: Kate is a two-time Eras Tour attendee and can name nearly any Taylor Swift song in five notes or less.

Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction
01:58 - "Empowering Working Moms Discussion"
04:00 - "Valuing Stay-at-Home Parents' Work"
07:44 - Prioritizing Family Over Career
11:30 - Gender Roles and Housework Disparity
15:26 - Juggling Work and Parenting Joyfully
17:24 - Parenting: Balancing Work and Family
19:41 - Project 300: Expanding Creative Support
22:41 - Rising Gig Economy Trends
27:10 - Daycare Costs Stun Working Parents
30:47 - Hedonic Adaptation and Life's Pressures
35:06 - "Early Career Pivot to Leadership"
38:15 - Embracing Reinvention and Skills Confidence
39:01 - "Cumulative, Transferable Skills Recognition"
44:09 - "It Takes a Village"
48:20 - Community Support for Working Parents
49:04 - "Titles Are Overrated"
55:07 - Finding Personal Space Working Home
56:37 - Prioritizing Self-Care for Parenthood
01:00:01 - Join, Listen, and Grow
01:00:24 - Outro

Quotes:
"Being a mom doesn't define you. Embrace change, redefine success, and continually reinvent to discover what truly fulfills you."- Kate Reed

"Prioritize presence and your values over titles. Your time and authenticity are your greatest gifts."- Amy Vaughn

Key Takeaways:
There’s No “Just” About Stay-at-Home Moms
Career Ambitions Can Evolve (and That’s Okay!)
Success Begins with Redefining Growth
The Power of a Nonagency Agency
Math Matters: Childcare Isn’t Cheap
Reinvention and Transferable Skills
Your Community is Your Superpower
Letting Go of the Guilt (and the Judgment)
Take the Leap—Nothing Is Permanent
Modeling Possibility for the Next Generation

Connect with Kate Reed
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katereedpm/
Website: https://www.project300.co/

Check out PROJECT 300:
PROJECT 300 Website: https://www.project300.co/
PROJECT 300 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/project-300-llc
PROJECT 300 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/project300llc/
The Motherload, by Sarah Hoover: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/The-Motherload/Sarah-Hoover/9781668010136

Connect with the host Amy Vaughan:

Support the show

Welcome back to The Power Lounge. In "Pin With Purpose," host Amy Vaughn engages with Pinterest marketing strategist Dana Joan Johnson, founder of Styled Pin Collection. Together, they explore how Pinterest can revolutionize strategies for creative entrepreneurs and business owners seeking an alternative to the relentless pace of daily social media posting.

Amy and Dana discuss Pinterest's potential as a visual search engine, emphasizing its ability to generate consistent, high-quality traffic to websites, content, and offerings. Dana shares her transition from the wedding industry to digital marketing, highlighting her dedication to sustainable marketing systems that prevent burnout. If navigating ever-changing social trends feels overwhelming, this episode provides practical strategies and valuable insights.

Tailored for both product-based businesses and service providers, listeners will learn how to repurpose existing content, optimize with effective keywords, and develop a Pinterest strategy that continues to deliver results over time. Additionally, Dana addresses common Pinterest misconceptions and explains the importance of clarity, consistency, and relevance in achieving pinning success.

Dana Johnson brings a unique perspective as a former wedding professional turned educator. Through The Styled Pin Collection, she empowers creative entrepreneurs with strategic, on-brand Pinterest content. By focusing on simplicity and authenticity, Dana helps businesses enhance their visibility and traffic without the constant pressure of daily social media engagement.

Join this conversation to refine your Pinterest strategy and drive meaningful results for your business.

Chapters:
00:00 – Introduction
01:58 – Pinterest: Beyond Aesthetic Inspiration
04:06 – Pinterest Strategies for Wedding Planning
09:38 – "Timeless Wedding Content Strategy"
11:38 – Educational Content Drives Quality Leads
15:14 – "Maximize Impact Through Repetition"
19:12 – "Unbranded Searches and Content Strategy"
19:53 – Empowering Consumers Through Value
26:24 – Content Refresh and Repurposing
27:49 – Maximizing Pinterest for Existing Content
31:24 – Effective Visual Communication Strategies
35:33 – "Encouragement to Speak at Conferences"
37:26 – Twitter's Marketing Challenge: Unrelated Trends
41:00 – "Year-Round Barbecue Marketing Strategies"
46:08 – "Show Your Face in Marketing"
46:56 – "Upcoming Master Classes Announcement"
49:34 – Outro

Quotes:
"Work smarter—create evergreen content that delivers lasting value."- Amy Vaughan

"Strategy beats hustle. Plant the right seeds to ensure your business grows long after you're done."- Dana Joan Johnson

Key Takeaways:
Pinterest is a Powerful Search Engine, Not Just a Social Platform
Strategic, Sustainable Marketing Beats Social Burnout
Evergreen Content is Your Secret Weapon
Keywords (and Simplicity!) Unlock Pinterest Growth
Repurpose, Schedule, and Simplify
Educate and Empower to Inspire Trust
Measure What Matters: Beyond Impressions
Pinterest’s Future: Visual Search & Year-Round Opportunity

Connect with Dana Joan Johnson:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/d-m-johnson/
Website: https://ddvirtualmanagement.com/

Check out PROJECT 300:

PROJECT 300 Website: https://www.project300.co/

PROJECT 300 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/project-300-llc

PROJECT 300 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/project300llc/

Support the show

Welcome to The Power Lounge. Host Amy Vaughan speaks with Deanna Behrens, VML’s Director of Media and Strategy and a leader in retail media. Deanna has launched strategies across seven major retailers, shaping the future of the industry.

Together, Amy and Deanna explore how brands and retailers are transforming consumer connections through data-driven, consumer-focused methods and technologies like QR codes and AI. Deanna shares her journey from traditional media to the dynamic field of retail, highlighting the importance of adaptability and innovation.

This episode offers valuable insights for marketers, business owners, and anyone interested in the future of commerce, providing practical advice and real-world examples to thrive in today’s retail landscape. Tune in to The Power Lounge to learn from Deanna’s expertise and industry perspectives.

Deanna Behrens is a marketing strategist with extensive experience in the consumer-packaged goods sector. As Director of Media and Strategy, she leads marketing initiatives that drive results, focusing on commerce intelligence for retail media across seven leading retailers. Deanna is dedicated to empowering teams and advancing the future of retail media.

Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction
00:10 - Retail Media Strategy Insights
04:15 - Agility in Retail Media Evolution
07:23 - Unplanned Purchases via Impulse Marketing
11:16 - "Brand Visibility Over Awareness"
13:10 - Brand Authenticity Foundations
19:40 - "DTC Impact on Retail Strategy"
20:35 - "D2C Innovation vs. Brand Caution"
25:01 - Consistent Branding Across Retailers
27:56 - "Adapting Media Math for ROAS"
32:16 - Ad Spend Evaluation Challenges
33:05 - Aiming for Standardized Metrics
38:27 - Leveraging Data and AI Insights
42:41 - Purchase Influence Through Repeated Exposure
43:14 - Marketing Synergy Across Retail Channels
48:48 - Marketing Support Podcast for Small Businesses
50:35 - Aligning First Party and RMN Data
53:16 - Evolving Media Strategies
56:32 - Shopper Marketing Resources
59:01 - Community Support Advantage
01:00:41 - Outro

Quotes:
"Create opportunities when you can. Often, we doubt our potential, but embracing uncertainty leads to growth and magic."- Amy Vaughan

"Stay agile and curious. Embrace ambiguity and new challenges to unlock possibilities and drive innovation."-Deanna Behrens

Key Takeaways:
Embrace Agility and Curiosity
Consumer-Centric is Non-Negotiable
Partnerships Are Evolving
Test, Learn, and Innovate—Continuously
Data Is Your Power Tool (But Ask the Right Questions)
Brand Consistency, Local Nuance
Small Brands, Big Potential
Lifelong Learning & Community

Connect with Deanna Behrens:
LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/deannabehrens
Website:https://www.vml.com/

Connect with the host Amy Vaughan:
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/amypvaughan
Podcast:https://www.togetherindigital.com/podcast/

Learn more about Together Digital and consider joining the movement by visitinghttps://togetherindigital.com

Support the show