Today on Secrets of Powerful Women, I’m joined by entrepreneur Carolyn Haeler, founder and CEO of Mightylicious Gluten-Free Cookies, who turned a life-changing health diagnosis into a thriving food brand.

In this episode, we dive into her journey from finance to entrepreneurship, building a company in the competitive food industry, raising capital through crowdfunding and loans, and navigating product development and supply chain challenges. Carolyn shares real insights on brand building, rebranding, and creating a mission-driven business rooted in inclusivity and quality.

If you’re a woman in business, an entrepreneur considering a career pivot, or a founder building something from the ground up, this conversation will give you practical lessons on resilience, leadership, and scaling a purpose-driven company.

Chapters

00:00 From Kitchen to Market: The Journey Begins

27:18 Funding Growth: Navigating Capital and Crowdfunding

29:58 The Reality of Profitability in CPG

33:04 Challenges of Supply Chain Management

35:43 The Entrepreneurial Rollercoaster: Setbacks and Successes

38:45 Transitioning from Side Hustle to Full-Time Business

41:19 Embracing Risk and Resilience

44:13 The Evolution of Mightylicious

50:31 Advice for Aspiring Women Entrepreneurs

#womeninbusiness #buildingabrand #glutenfreecookies

What does it take for a woman to lead in one of the world’s most male-dominated industries?

In this episode of Secrets of Powerful Women, host Jill Conway interviews Nicole Brewster, President and CEO of Renforth Resources, about her unconventional journey into the mining and exploration industry and how she built confidence, authority, and resilience along the way.

Nicole shares what women need to know about stepping into leadership roles, navigating industries where women are underrepresented, and why minerals and natural resources are critical to today’s economy and future innovation. She also discusses the global impact of resource management, China’s influence in mining, and the mindset required to thrive in rapidly changing environments.

This conversation is for women who want to lead boldly, change careers, or succeed in competitive fields without losing themselves.

• How women can succeed in male-dominated industries

• Leadership and confidence strategies for career growth

• Why mining and natural resources matter to modern life

• The power of resilience, curiosity, and adaptability

• Advice for women entering STEM, business, or executive roles

Follow the podcast for me — Secrets of Powerful Women — on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube for weekly conversations that help women build confidence, leadership skills, and financial independence.

Interested in an online membership community? Let me know in a comment .

women in leadership, women in business, female CEO, women empowerment, career growth for women, male-dominated industries, resilience, adaptability, STEM careers for women, entrepreneurship, Nicole Brewster, Jill Conway, Secrets of Powerful Women

Take control of your money in one clear conversation.
Attorney Donna Stefans breaks down the three pillars every woman needs: wealth management, accounting, and estate planning—so you can protect your future and grow it.

You’ll learn

• A budget that funds goals (not guilt)

• Starter moves for saving & investing at any age

• Wills vs. trusts, beneficiaries, POA—what to set up first

• How to plan for elder law and long-term care costs

• Money + relationships: boundaries, safety, and transparency

Follow the podcast for me — Secrets of Powerful Women — for weekly, practical episodes that help women 40+ build confidence, wealth, and security. Visit www.powerfulwomenusa.com

for Donna: www.Stefanslawgroup.com

Takeaways

The earliest someone can start planning is at birth, but adults should have documents in place by age 18.

Women are often taught to save but may lack confidence in investing.

Creating a healthy relationship with money is crucial for financial empowerment.

Budgeting is essential, but many people avoid looking at their spending habits.

Starting to save in your 20s can significantly impact your financial future.

Communication about money in relationships is vital for both partners.

Elder law and estate planning are critical for protecting assets and ensuring care needs are met.

Long-term care can be expensive, and planning ahead is essential.

Wills are important, but trusts can provide more control and efficiency in asset distribution.

Creating a financial plan should include personal goals and dreams.

Keywords: women’s financial planning, women and money, wealth management, accounting basics, estate planning, wills vs trusts, budgeting, investing for women, elder law, long-term care, financial literacy, money mindset, midlife women, Jill Conway, Donna Stefans