Episodes

  • The Future of Work, Fractional Leadership & the Power of Community | April Uchitel | Founder & CEO of The Board

    The Future of Work, Fractional Leadership & the Power of Community | April Uchitel | Founder & CEO of The Board
    Jan 21 2026
    The future of work is changing fast as longer job searches, rising costs, AI and automation, and remote work reshape today’s economy. In this episode, Kara Duffy sits down with April Uchitel, Founder and CEO of The Board, to discuss how professionals and businesses can adapt by creating income streams they control and embracing fractional leadership. April shares why more roles are shifting from traditional employment to consulting and contract work, how building a strong personal brand drives career sustainability, and why community, relationships, and who knows you matter more than ever in today’s evolving work culture. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Networking Connections 01:02 Building a Hybrid Agency Community 02:04 The Shift in Corporate Environments 06:20 The Rise of Fractional Work and Hustle Culture 07:59 Burnout and the Unique Challenges for Women 10:40 Navigating Modern Career Paths and Job Security 11:39 Identifying Superpowers and Specialization 14:01 The Importance of Personal Branding 18:13 Community Support and Collective Intelligence 21:20 Reflections on Career Journey and Future Outlook 30:24 Navigating Time Management and Resourcefulness 31:24 Identifying Core Values for Success 32:39 Embracing Innovation and Adaptability 34:48 The Importance of Experimentation 35:59 Understanding the Role of AI in Business 37:49 Personal Well-being and Daily Rituals 40:30 Community and Connection in a Digital Age 42:56 Redefining Success Beyond Exit Strategies 46:32 Legacy, Impact, and Human Connection 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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    57 mins
  • How to Navigate and Change a Toxic Workplace | Catherine Mattice & Rebecca Del Secco | CEO & COO of Civility Partners, Authors of Navigating Toxic Workplace Culture

    How to Navigate and Change a Toxic Workplace | Catherine Mattice & Rebecca Del Secco | CEO & COO of Civility Partners, Authors of Navigating Toxic Workplace Culture
    Jan 14 2026
    Workplace culture doesn’t become toxic overnight, and the warning signs often show up long before leaders take action. In this episode, workplace culture and leadership experts Rebecca Del Secco and Catherine Mattice join Kara to break down the early indicators of a toxic workplace, how harmful behaviors are allowed to persist, and the critical role leadership plays in accountability and psychological safety. They explore how silence, fear, gossip, and unchecked power dynamics erode trust, what employees can do when they feel unsafe at work, and how leaders can intervene before toxicity becomes embedded in company culture. The conversation also covers rebuilding trust, navigating difficult conversations, and knowing when it’s time to advocate for change, or make the decision to leave. Chapters: 00:00 Navigating Toxic Workplace Culture 03:07 Changing Definitions of Toxicity 05:52 Extreme Cases of Workplace Bullying 08:40 Identifying Toxic Work Environments 11:43 The Role of Leadership in Culture 14:45 Coaching and Feedback Dynamics 17:33 The Importance of Psychological Safety 20:39 Feedback and Communication Strategies 23:38 The Power of Core Values 26:30 Integrating Visionary and Operational Roles 29:36 Operationalizing Culture 32:41 Intentionality in Culture 35:32 The Balance of Systems and Creativity 38:31 Empowering Change in Culture 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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    55 mins
  • How Whimsy & Self-Expression Build Stronger Brands | Danielle McWaters | Founder of Designsake Studio & Co-Founder of Sardine

    How Whimsy & Self-Expression Build Stronger Brands | Danielle McWaters | Founder of Designsake Studio & Co-Founder of Sardine
    Jan 7 2026
    Danielle McWaters is the creative force behind Designsake Studio and co-founder of Sardine Eyewear, building brands with intention, strategy, and joy. In this episode, she joins Kara to share how she’s creating meaningful, lasting brands while navigating the challenges of launching product-based businesses. They dive into brand positioning, strategy, customer experience, and how to grow sustainably without losing integrity. Danielle also explores personal evolution, reconnecting with your creativity, and embracing whimsy in life and work. If you’re building a brand, craving more creativity, or leading with purpose, this episode is packed with inspiration. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Danielle McWaters and Her Ventures 03:12 Career Path and the Launch of Designsake Studio 05:59 Transitioning to Eyewear: The Birth of Sardin 08:52 The Importance of Positioning in Branding 12:07 The Role of Strategy in Business Success 14:59 Navigating Brand Identity and Consumer Connection 18:01 The Challenge of Balancing Sales and Strategy 21:03 The Essence of Brand Purpose and Integrity 23:55 The Need for Whimsy and Individuality in Fashion 26:53 Embracing Change and Self-Expression 29:43 Reflecting on Childhood Imagination and Creativity 31:28 Embracing Whimsy and Authenticity in Style 33:13 Reflecting on Personal Growth and Identity 36:38 The Importance of Internal Validation 39:49 Choosing Agency and Direction in Life 41:34 Building a Purpose-Driven Business 47:01 Navigating Product Development and Sustainability 54:50 Rapid Fire Reflections and Personal Insights he 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 mins
  • Punk Rock PR & Podcasting with Purpose | Kathryn Musilek | Founder, Shark Party Media

    Punk Rock PR & Podcasting with Purpose | Kathryn Musilek | Founder, Shark Party Media
    Dec 31 2025
    Kathryn Musilek is building a PR business that actually reflects her values—and gets real results for creatives. As the founder of Shark Party Media, Kathryn specializes in matching creatives with podcast guesting opportunities, carving out a much-needed niche in today’s crowded media landscape. In this episode, Kara Duffy and Kathryn unpack her journey from working in traditional PR (including with legends like Ringo Starr) to launching a values-driven agency where selectivity, alignment, and clear communication come first. They explore how PR and podcasting are rapidly changing, why building your business “selfishly” around who you are actually works, and what truly matters when making long-term business decisions. This conversation is a must-listen for creatives, founders, and anyone rethinking how visibility, media, and values intersect. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to The Powerful Ladies 00:18 Meet Kathryn Musilek: Founder of Shark Party Media 02:06 The Evolution of Shark Party Media 04:20 Navigating the PR Landscape 09:43 Building a Business Around Your Values 12:54 The Changing World of PR and Social Media 15:21 The Power of Optimism and Lead Time in PR 16:37 Finding the Right Clients and Projects 18:58 Trends and Insights in Podcasting 24:45 The Importance of Gratitude and Perspective 28:43 The Power of Imperfect Actions 29:24 The Neuroscience of Positive Affirmations 30:28 Leveraging Your Network for Success 32:01 The Importance of Clear Communication 40:11 The Role of AI in Modern Communication 50:44 Defining Powerful Ladies 53:10 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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    57 mins
  • Regulating Your Nervous System to Manifest Abundance | Stefanie Phan | Identity & Nervous System Coach

    Regulating Your Nervous System to Manifest Abundance | Stefanie Phan | Identity & Nervous System Coach
    Dec 17 2025
    Stefanie Phan helps women transform anxiety into grounded confidence and intentional manifestation. As an Identity and Nervous System Coach, she supports clients in regulating their bodies so they can create from a place of peace, clarity, and abundance. In this episode, Stefanie joins Kara to share her journey from the fashion industry into coaching, the pivotal moments that led her to change paths, and why self-regulation is the foundation of everything we want to build, become, and experience. Kara and Stefanie dive into why manifestation doesn’t work when it’s rooted in fear, how accepting where you are is often the most powerful first step forward, and what it really takes to make sustainable change, especially while navigating health challenges and major life transitions. If you’re ready to stop pushing, start regulating, and make 2026 your most aligned year yet, this episode is a must-listen. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the Episode 01:16 Meet Stefanie Phan 03:21 Stefanie's Journey to Life Coaching 05:46 The Intersection of Fashion and Coaching 09:02 Manifestation and Nervous System Regulation 16:24 Powerful Ladies and Personal Growth 26:36 Cultural Perspectives and Personal Power 33:39 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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    41 mins
  • Designing With Intention | Brittny Button | Architectural Digest Featured Interior Designer & Founder of Button Atelier

    Designing With Intention | Brittny Button | Architectural Digest Featured Interior Designer & Founder of Button Atelier
    Dec 10 2025
    Many of us will reinvent ourselves throughout our lives, but Brittny Button has mastered reinvention with intention. As an in-demand Los Angeles interior and product designer, Brittny’s latest chapter follows careers as a model, primary parent, supportive spouse to a Formula 1 driver, real estate investor, and entrepreneur. In this episode, Kara and Brittny discuss why honoring the history of a space matters, the importance of protecting architectural diversity, and why pursuing your passion, no matter how accomplished you are, still requires courage. Brittny shares personal stories about navigating multiple careers, building a design practice rooted in integrity, and embracing vulnerability while stepping into her full creative power. This episode is perfect for aspiring designers, women in transition, and anyone drawn to intentional, meaningful living. CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction to the Powerful Ladies Podcast 00:34 Meet Brittny Button: A Multifaceted Career Journey 01:48 The Philosophy of Interior Design 03:00 The Importance of Preserving Architectural Diversity 04:44 Intentional Living and Design 07:14 Personal Reflections and Family Life 09:49 Brittny's Upbringing and Early Influences 12:11 Transitioning Careers and Finding Passion 13:33 Life with a Formula One Driver 18:47 Empowering Women and Building Confidence 21:29 Empowering Women to Shine 22:04 Financial Literacy and Generational Wealth 23:01 Pursuing Dreams Despite Setbacks 24:31 The Role of Coaches and Mentors 25:26 Motherhood and Entrepreneurship 28:53 Celebrating Success and Teamwork 30:06 Defining Powerful Ladies 34:25 Dream Clients and Historical Homes 39:49 Manifesting Dreams and Community Support 41:11 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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    45 mins
  • Inside the Southern California Real Estate Market | Kathy Clark & Brenna Van Hoogenstyn | Founders of Harcourts Blue Water

    Inside the Southern California Real Estate Market | Kathy Clark & Brenna Van Hoogenstyn | Founders of Harcourts Blue Water
    Dec 3 2025
    In this episode of The Powerful Ladies Podcast, host Kara Duffy sits down with Kathy Clark and Brenna Van Hoogenstyn, the expert mother-daughter real estate team transforming how buyers and sellers navigate the Southern California real estate market. Kathy and Brenna share their real estate career journey, what it takes to succeed as top-performing realtors, and the skills required to thrive in a highly competitive—and often misunderstood—industry. Kara explores current Southern California housing market trends, common myths about becoming a realtor, and the personal and professional strategies that help this family team deliver exceptional client service. Whether you’re planning to buy a home, exploring real estate as a career, or want insider insights into today’s housing market, this episode is filled with valuable, actionable advice. Chapters: 0:00 Introduction to The Powerful Ladies Podcast 00:36 Meet the Real Estate Experts: Kathy Clark and Brenda Van Hoenstein 00:51 The Realities of the Real Estate Market 02:10 Starting in Real Estate: Kathy's Journey 05:16 Building a Long-Term Real Estate Business 07:39 The Importance of Relationships in Real Estate 14:22 Advice for First-Time Home Buyers in Southern California 19:24 Current Real Estate Market Trends and Predictions 26:28 The Future of Real Estate Development in Southern California 31:06 Exploring the Long Beach Market 31:58 Balancing Business and Personal Relationships 32:17 Communication and Therapy 33:35 Generational Differences and Personal Growth 38:11 Powerful Ladies and Inner Strength 39:46 Daily Habits and Self-Care 42:25 Entrepreneurial Challenges and Rewards 50:08 Reflections on Self-Employment 52:16 Final Thoughts and Community 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 mins
  • Building a Successful Swimwear Brand | Johanna Davenport Calica | Founder & Creative Force Behind LaPorte Swim

    Building a Successful Swimwear Brand | Johanna Davenport Calica | Founder & Creative Force Behind LaPorte Swim
    Nov 19 2025
    Johanna Davenport Calica is redefining the swimwear industry. As the founder and CEO of LaPorte Swim, a fast-growing swimwear and resort wear brand, she shares her journey from intern to entrepreneur and how she built a successful fashion business from the ground up. In this episode, Kara and Johanna discuss how to launch and scale a swimwear brand, the importance of thoughtful design and body positivity, leveraging modern technology while maintaining human connection, and key strategies for growing a business in a competitive industry. You’ll hear Johanna’s insights on entrepreneurship, building a brand that resonates with customers, and how women founders can create impact while chasing their dreams. This episode is a must-listen for aspiring entrepreneurs, fashion business leaders, and anyone interested in swimwear, brand strategy, and female empowerment in business. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Powerful Ladies 00:28 Meet Johanna Davenport Calica 01:17 Johanna's Background and Journey 03:39 Challenges of Starting a Swimwear Brand 08:46 The Importance of Team and Support 13:37 Navigating the Fashion Industry 18:12 Embracing Technology and Authenticity 21:46 Sustainable and Thoughtful Growth 27:41 Virgil Abloh's Thoughtful Brand Strategy 28:52 Learning from Successful Brands 30:05 Balancing Marketing and Product Development 30:53 Data-Driven Decision Making 34:44 Personal Style and Fashion Trends 40:14 The Concept of Powerful Ladies 44:25 Self-Improvement and Leadership 50:04 Expanding the Business Globally 51:05 Connecting with the Brand 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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    55 mins