LEAVE YOUR MARK: Freshly Brewed Career Advice with Aliza Licht

Claudia Chan on the Quiet Crisis Behind High Achievers and Success Jun 18, 2025

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I sit down with my friend Claudia Chan, an award-winning serial entrepreneur, New York Times bestselling author, keynote speaker, and Whole-Self Leadership™ coach. She has dedicated half of her life to empowering women and the cultures in which they work and live. Her B2B company, S.H.E GLOBL, has focused on coaching entrepreneurs and corporations to be changemakers.

Over the last decade, her annual S.H.E. Summit has convened 600 renowned speakers from over 400 companies, including Morgan Stanley, ESPN, Google, Bacardi Global, and PepsiCo.

In this episode, we delve into her concept of the 'Invisible Epidemic,' exploring the hidden burnout and anxiety that plague high achievers. Claudia shares her personal journey and the inspiration behind her focus on Whole-Self Leadership™ and faith. We discuss the cognitive patterns driving burnout, the importance of aligning outward performance with inner truth, and Claudia's IHAC framework for creating a more fulfilling life. Tune in to learn how to lead your life with wholeness and passion.

00:00 Introduction to Leave Your Mark

00:34 Meet Claudia Chan: Leadership Coach and Speaker

01:01 The Invisible Epidemic: Burnout and Anxiety

03:26 Understanding the Mind-Body Connection

04:55 Patterns in High Performers

06:37 The Burnout Baller and Major Life Transitions

10:36 Aligning Outward Performance with Inner Truth

12:30 The IHAC Framework: Imagination, Healing, Alignment

17:17 The Bridge to a New Paradigm

18:02 The Courage to Create the Future

18:57 Unfulfilled Potential and Low-Grade Depression

20:16 Leading Your Own Life

21:09 Balancing Multiple Roles and Avoiding Burnout

24:13 The Importance of Passion-Driven Work

25:00 Energy Management and Productivity

30:00 The Role of Family and Heritage

31:36 Defining Success and Wholeness

33:23 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Leadership Transparency: How Much Is Too Much? Jun 11, 2025

In today’s workplace, transparency is expected—but how much is too much?

In this episode, I break down the new rules of leadership transparency, spotlighting recent real-world examples from JPMorgan, Meta, Delta, and Business Insider. You’ll hear what those companies got wrong—and what they could have done better.

Plus, I share a practical decision-making filter to help leaders decide what to share, when to share it, and how to do it without eroding trust.

You’ll learn:

When transparency builds trust—and when it backfires
The difference between honesty and oversharing
What to say when you don’t have all the answers
A 5-question leadership filter to guide communication
How to avoid performative openness and drive real connection

Whether you're a seasoned executive or a first-time manager, this episode is your toolkit for navigating transparency with clarity, empathy, and intention.

Leadership, Failure Tolerance, and Climbing Everest: Powerful Lessons from Alison Levine Jun 04, 2025

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I sit down with history-making polar explorer, mountaineer, and leadership expert Alison Levine. We delve into her incredible journey from the boardrooms of Goldman Sachs to leading the first American women's Everest expedition and completing the Adventure Grand Slam despite having Raynaud's disease and undergoing three heart surgeries. Alison shares her insights on leadership in extreme environments, overcoming personal limits, and the importance of resilience. We also discuss her experiences at Goldman Sachs, her tenure as a leadership professor at West Point, and the valuable lessons she learned from the top of some of the world's tallest mountains. Not to mention incredible insights from her book, On the Edge. Find out how Alison's failures paved the way for her eventual successes and her approach to risk management both in the mountains and in corporate settings. Don't miss her profound thoughts on the true goals of mountaineering, the importance of resilience, and the power of encouragement.

Career Insights for New Grads: Building Your Brand and Network with Stacey Ross Cohen May 28, 2025

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I sit down with Stacey Ross Cohen, CEO and founder of Co-Communications, bestselling author of the Brand Up series, TEDx speaker, and marketing professor, to discuss personal branding and career advancement for early professionals. The conversation dives into the essentials of beginner personal branding, highlighting a three-step framework from Stacey's book, Brand Up 2.0: Propel Your Early Career Success. It features invaluable career-building best practices and helps young adults tell unique stories highlighting their best selves and answering the million-dollar question: Why Choose You?

Stacey shares insights on leveraging LinkedIn, networking, and the balance between content creation and genuine engagement. She also offers practical advice for young professionals on effective job application strategies and how to make a lasting impression during interviews. Additionally, the episode touches on the crucial role of follow-up skills and the nuanced use of LinkedIn's 'open to work' feature. No matter your career path or goals, Stacey's insights will teach you how to craft your professional digital presence and set you up for success.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

01:30 Target Audience for the Book

02:35 Understanding Personal Branding

04:39 Personal Branding in 3D Framework

06:24 Delivering Your Value

10:32 Navigating Social Media and Algorithms

13:58 Graduation Tips and Job Market Insights

18:31 Networking and Interviewing Skills

21:40 Brand Up Book Overview

28:39 Open to Work on LinkedIn

32:32 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The Art of Feedback: How to Give It, How to Take It, and How to Grow from It May 22, 2025

Mastering the Art of Giving and Receiving Feedback Welcome back to Leave Your Mark. In this episode, I delve into the essential skill of feedback—how to give it effectively and how to receive it with grace. I'll provide a step-by-step guide on giving timely, specific, and constructive feedback, including practical examples and methods like the SBI (Situation, Behavior, Impact) framework. On receiving feedback, I'll cover how to regulate your emotional response, seek clarity, and act on advice. Whether you're a manager or climbing the corporate ladder, these tips will help you use feedback as a tool for professional growth. Tune in to learn how to transform feedback from a source of anxiety into a catalyst for personal and career development.

Future-Proof Your Career with LinkedIn's Catherine Fisher May 14, 2025

In this eye-opening episode of Leave Your Mark, I sit down with Catherine Fisher, LinkedIn's career expert, to explore the critical skills you need to stay competitive in today's rapidly evolving job market. Catherine shares invaluable insights on AI literacy, conflict resolution, and how to seamlessly incorporate new skills into your professional life. We also discuss the best ways to optimize your LinkedIn profile to attract top recruiters and stand out from the crowd. Whether you're actively job hunting, considering a career pivot, or aiming to stay relevant, this episode is packed with actionable advice and real-world examples to help you take control of your career journey.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:27 Navigating the Uncertain Job Market

01:45 Future-Proofing Your Career with Skills

03:56 The Importance of Soft Skills

04:57 Leveraging AI in Your Career

06:29 Conflict Resolution in the Workplace

08:24 Self-Assessment and Skill Development

13:30 Optimizing Your LinkedIn Profile

14:53 Job Market Trends and Strategies

16:53 Personal Branding and Visibility

32:01 Final Thoughts and Conclusion

Mastering the Moment: Marina Luri from Fashion PR to Elite Event Planning May 07, 2025

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I chat with my former colleague and friend, Marina Luri, the founder and creative director of Marina Luri Events. Marina shares her inspiring journey from working in high-profile fashion PR to becoming one of the most sought-after event planners in the world, with offices in New York, Connecticut, and Italy. With over two decades of designing jaw-dropping events across the US and Europe, she's the mastermind behind high-profile weddings, galas, and private events that feature celebrity performances.

Word of mouth is everything in an industry where you're as good as your last event. Marina's commitment to maintaining discretion — especially with high-profile clients — has kept her at the top. We dive into how her background in fashion influences her event designs, the challenges of running her own business, and her strategies for managing high-profile, luxurious events. Marina also discusses the importance of mentorship and her passion for helping the next generation of creatives. Tune in for some rich insights and career advice that you can put into action right away!

Meghan Markle at TIME100: When Personal Branding Misses the Moment Apr 30, 2025

What happens when your personal brand doesn’t match the moment?
In this episode, I break down Meghan Markle’s recent TIME100 interview analyzing where her messaging went wrong, how she lost control of the narrative, and the branding lessons every leader, entrepreneur, and creator needs to know. From flower sprinkles to unboxing confessions, I uncover how small missteps can turn into big brand consequences — and what it takes to pivot with purpose. If you care about building a resilient, authentic brand, you don’t want to miss this episode.

Parents: Please Don't Let Your College Kid Blow Their Summer Internship Apr 23, 2025

Parents Please Don't Let Your College Kid Blow Their Summer Internship:

Let's face it—most students aren't prepared for what real-world work demands. School doesn't teach soft skills like communication, professionalism, or how to read a room. That's where this episode steps in. It's a no-fluff guide to help young professionals show up, stand out, and succeed as summer interns. I cover the crucial skills and attitudes needed to succeed in a professional environment, including the importance of presence, professionalism, and people skills. I stress the importance of punctuality, effective email communication, and leveraging social capital. You'll also learn about the significance of building relationships, appropriate social media usage, and the value of asking thoughtful questions. As I emphasize throughout the episode, internships are auditions for future roles, and how you show up can set the tone for your entire career. This is the definitive guide to help your college student not only survive their internship—but thrive.

00:00 Introduction to Leave Your Mark

00:29 Special Episode for Parents and College Students

01:53 The Reality of Internships

03:20 Building Your Personal Brand

04:32 Effective Communication Skills

07:23 The Importance of Soft Skills

09:04 Networking and Building Relationships

11:33 Social Media Etiquette for Interns

14:03 Collaboration Over Competition

15:15 Asking Questions and Seeking Feedback

16:44 Concluding Advice and Final Thoughts

Tackling the New Toxic Workplace Trends Apr 16, 2025

Is this you? I sure hope not. In this snack segment of Leave Your Mark, I explore the recent workplace trends of micro-pettiness and performative workaholism. Learn about the humorous yet harmful ways employees resist toxic bosses and how the pressure to appear constantly busy is taking a toll on mental health. I offer actionable advice for both managers and employees on how to address these issues, from rebuilding psychological safety and modeling healthy boundaries to setting personal boundaries and advocating for yourself.

00:00 Introduction to Modern Workplace Trends

00:26 Understanding Micro Pettiness

01:43 The Rise of Performative Workaholism

02:59 Strategies for Managers to Combat Toxic Work Culture

04:34 Tips for Employees to Maintain Healthy Work Habits

05:50 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

From Fear to Freedom: Harnessing AI for Personal and Professional Growth with Marc Beckman Apr 09, 2025

In today's rapidly evolving landscape, the choice is clear: either harness the power of artificial intelligence to propel you and your business forward or watch as competitors leave you in their digital dust. In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I sit down with my friend Mark Beckman, CEO of DMA United, bestselling author, podcast host, and NYU professor, to discuss the AI revolution, which is already here, transforming industries and reshaping our world at breakneck speed. Mark's new book 'Some Future Day: How AI is Going to Change Everything,' is a cutting-edge guide that not only shows how AI is transforming our careers, lives, businesses, and more, but also provides easy, actionable steps to make AI work for us. We have an insightful conversation about the transformative power of AI in various industries, especially in creative fields like fashion and advertising. We discuss his concept of the 'Age of Imagination' and how AI can democratize creativity, allowing individuals to compete with industry giants. We also discuss the broader implications of AI on job markets, privacy, and our personal lives. From ethical concerns and regulatory measures to practical ways listeners can utilize AI to enhance their careers and personal lives, this episode is packed with valuable insights.

01:41 AI's Impact on Work and Personal Life

03:04 AI in Creative Industries

08:30 AI and Job Market Transformation

10:02 Privacy and Security Concerns with AI

27:24 AI's Role in Personal and Family Life

35:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Communicating to Lead: Tactical Advice and Powerhouse Insights from Sally Susman Apr 02, 2025

Have you ever wondered how great communicators drive real change? In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I have the pleasure of interviewing Sally Susman, a powerhouse in the world of communications and leadership whose career journey has taken her through C-level roles at Estee Lauder, American Express, and now as Executive Vice President and Chief Corporate Affairs Officer at Pfizer. We dive deep into her extensive experience and bestselling book 'Breaking Through: Communicating to Open Minds, Move Hearts, and Change the World.' Sally shares invaluable insights into effective communication, leadership, and nurturing a strong organizational culture. We discuss her crisis communications strategies in navigating through the pandemic, the significance of intentionality and kindness, tackling misinformation, transitioning between industries, and practical ways to tackle these issues while staying true to one's purpose. This episode is an inspiring conversation for those at any career stage, with actionable advice from a renowned leader on personal and professional growth.

Standing Out and Stepping Up: Personal Branding, Strategic Networking, and Effective Delegation with Dave Kerpen Mar 26, 2025

There are certain people who progress at a feverish pace. My friend Dave Kerpen is a serial entrepreneur, New York Times bestselling author, visionary, and man of many, many traits. You could also say he’s a hustler that never stops learning.

Fun fact: Dave was one of the only “Twitter friends” that I met in real life early on as my former social media personality, DKNY PR GIRL. I trusted him with my secret, and he was the one that convinced me I should come out from behind the curtain. A friendship began that expanded to include his wife Carrie Kerpen, also a stellar Leave Your Mark guest! I was honored to have Dave write the forward to Leave Your Mark’s paperback edition.

This episode is long overdue, but its timing assures that you will get the most out of his long, illustrious career and knowledge! We dive into his signature orange as a unique personal branding trait, how to overcome emotional barriers like fear and control, and so much more. Dave shares his favorite efficiency tools and introduces Apprentice, a platform connecting college students with entrepreneurial opportunities, and his approach to delegation. We also explore his new venture into public service. This episode is brimming with actionable advice on career growth, personal branding, and balancing work and personal life.

Digital Marketing Maverick: How Dina Fierro Challenges the Norm Mar 19, 2025

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I sit down with marketing executive Dina Fierro. With over 15 years of experience in driving digital marketing for luxury brands like Christian Louboutin, NARS, and Shiseido Americas. Dina’s career is all about taking bold steps and navigating through unexplored territories, particularly in digital innovation. She has a knack for seeing what’s next and is fearless in making those leaps. That’s something many are too cautious to embrace, especially in today's corporate America, where playing it safe often feels like the more reinforced path.

In this episode, Dina shares her career journey and insights on embracing curiosity and risk. One of the things Dina is particularly adept at is building influence within an organization before pitching innovative ideas. She values relationships and understands the importance of having those connections when leading significant change. By spending time with colleagues and stakeholders, she shapes her pitches, making them more aligned with the broader business goals and grounded in real data and consumer insights.

The discussion delves into the importance of personal branding, the evolution of consumer engagement through emerging technologies, and the shift towards more immersive and personalized marketing strategies. Tune in to learn from Dina's fearless and forward-thinking career path.

Mastering Media in the Freelance Age with Keyaira Boone Mar 12, 2025

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I interview Keyaira Boone, an accomplished writer, columnist, and co-author recognized for her work across multiple prominent media outlets. Keyaira shares her journey from aspiring full-time journalist to thriving freelance writer, offering invaluable insights into the evolving landscape of journalism. She discusses the stigmas and challenges associated with freelance work, practical tips on managing time and finances, and how to navigate the complex dynamics between freelancers and editors. Keyaira also emphasizes the importance of personal branding, staying connected with true friends for mental well-being, and understanding media literacy. This episode provides actionable advice for anyone considering a freelancing career and highlights the resilience and strategic thinking required to succeed in the media industry.

Caught in the Act: Task Masking in the Age of Office Surveillance Mar 05, 2025

In this episode, I delve into the workplace trend of ‘task masking,’ where employees appear busy without being productive, particularly among Gen Z. With the return to office mandates, this phenomenon has become more noticeable. Is this solely a Gen Z issue or a symptom of outdated workplace expectations? But hold that thought- what about the rise of workplace surveillance technologies and their potential impact on employee trust? I explore how companies can create more meaningful, engaging work environments to counteract these trends.

Expert Strategies for Navigating Workplace Power Dynamics and Managing Up with Melody Wilding Feb 26, 2025

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I chat with Melody Wilding, an award-winning executive coach and author of Managing Up: How to Get What You Need from the People in Charge and Trust Yourself: Stop Overthinking and Channel Your Emotions for Success at Work. Melody dives into her journey of coaching highly sensitive professionals and shares actionable advice on navigating relationships with higher-ups, managing workplace emotions, and strategically advancing your career. We discuss the nuances of 'managing up' for both introverts and extroverts and highlight the importance of proactive career management. Melody also introduces the concept of 'sensitive strivers,' explaining how to turn sensitivity into a workplace strength.

Poppi Soda's Influencer Marketing Controversy: Bold Move or Misstep? Feb 19, 2025

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I break down the recent controversy surrounding Poppi, the prebiotic soda brand, following a bold marketing stunt gone wrong. The campaign, which involved sending 32 custom Poppi branded vending machines to top influencers, sparked backlash over elitism, wastefulness, and detachment from loyal customers. I delve into the two main areas of criticism: alienating a core customer base and concerns over sustainability and execution. Tune in to hear my strong take on influencer marketing, the founder apology, and why I believe Poppi will ultimately be just fine. Plus, get my insights on the importance of brands being bold and creative in their marketing efforts.

00:26 The Poppi Soda Brand Controversy

00:49 Backstory and Marketing Stunt Breakdown

02:01 Backlash and Core Customer Alienation

03:07 Environmental Concerns and Execution Issues

03:51 Founder and Company Response

05:05 Broader Implications of Influencer Marketing

05:37 Host's Perspective on the Controversy

09:10 Final Thoughts and Marketing Insights

11:27 Conclusion and Call to Action

New Evidence Sheds Light on 'It Ends With Us' Marketing Fail Feb 12, 2025

Who is really to blame? In this episode of 'Leave Your Mark,' I discuss the controversial marketing strategy of the film 'It Ends With Us,' directed by Justin Baldoni and starring Blake Lively. The promotional campaign faced criticism for being tone-deaf, especially considering the movie's sensitive themes of domestic violence. I reveal new evidence that shifts the focus of responsibility away from Sony. I also share actionable marketing tips to avoid such pitfalls in the future, emphasizing sensitivity and stakeholder inclusion. Tune in to learn valuable lessons on responsible and effective marketing.

The Office Elite: The Unspoken Rules of Hybrid Hierarchy Feb 05, 2025

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I review an article from Quartz on the emerging concept of a 'hybrid hierarchy' in the workplace. I discuss how some companies offer flexible schedules to high-performing employees while others are required to adhere to strict in-office attendance. I debate the challenges and implications of this approach, touching on issues of fairness, transparency, and potential workplace tension.

Perform Like a Pro: Mental Health Hacks for High Achievers Jan 29, 2025

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I focus on navigating mental health challenges in high-performing workplaces. Drawing from my background in public relations, I share valuable insights on maintaining productivity while safeguarding mental well-being. I discuss real-world examples like Simone Biles prioritizing her mental health and tech leaders addressing burnout. I provide essential tips for high performers, such as prioritizing tasks with the 80/20 rule. I also offer actionable advice for employers and leaders on modeling healthy behaviors, promoting work-life balance, spotting burnout, and fostering a culture of psychological safety.

What Stops Women Leaders from Stepping into the Spotlight with Anjli Raval Jan 22, 2025

In this episode of Leave Your Mark podcast, I engage in a compelling conversation with Anjli Raval, the management editor at the Financial Times. We discuss Anjli's article 'Women shouldn't face a penalty for promoting themselves', her experiences interviewing female CEOs, and the challenges women face in self-promotion. Our discussion highlights the importance of personal branding, cultural differences in perceptions of success, and actionable advice for professionals to effectively amplify their voices. Anjli also shares her journalistic approach and how thoughtful engagement can lead to greater professional opportunities.

00:00 Introduction to Leave Your Mark

00:26 Meet Anjli Raval: Management Editor at Financial Times

01:36 The LinkedIn Post That Sparked a Conversation

02:07 Challenges Faced by Female CEOs

03:09 The Importance of Personal Branding

12:52 Cultural Differences in Personal Branding

21:33 Advice for CEOs and Professionals

24:38 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

How Carrie Kerpen is Closing the Exit Gap for Female Entrepreneurs Jan 15, 2025

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I'm thrilled to welcome back Carrie Kerpen, a transformative leader in the business world. Carrie, the founder and CEO of The Whisper Group—an exit readiness advisory practice for women-owned businesses—shares her incredible journey. Previously, she started, scaled, and sold Likable Media, a pioneering social media agency. We dive into her strategic approach to building and selling a profitable business, her development of The Whisper Group, and her mission to close the exit gap for female entrepreneurs. Carrie also discusses her upcoming book, 'The Whisper Way,' and offers a unique perspective on optimizing businesses for exit. You'll gain actionable insights on career growth, business optimization, and personal branding from this insightful discussion.

Crafting Memorable Speeches: Lessons from the Golden Globes Jan 08, 2025

This year's Golden Globes reminded us of the importance of intentional and clear communication in public speaking. Today's episode on Leave Your Mark delves into powerful takeaways from several of the speeches at the Golden Globes, emphasizing the value of authenticity and the consequences of ignoring impactful narratives – lessons that extend beyond the awards stage to everyday communication and storytelling.

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I'm thrilled to welcome back my friend and personal media trainer, Jillian Straus, CEO and founder of Straus Strategic Communications, to break down some standout speeches from the Golden Globes. In contrast, I break them down from a personal branding and PR standpoint. We dive into Demi's powerful and relatable speech that captured vulnerability and empathy and contrast it with Adrian Brody's speech, which notably avoided key elements of his film's Holocaust narrative. Throughout our discussion, we emphasize the importance of intention, authenticity, and conveying a clear message in public speaking.

The Ultimate Year-End Review Playbook for Your Next Promotion Dec 18, 2024

As we wrap up another year, I find myself reflecting on my journey and eagerly preparing for the opportunities ahead. This time of year, evaluations are in full swing, and I'm here to share how to tackle your year-end review to ensure you’re on the path to success and a well-deserved promotion.

In this episode, I provide a comprehensive, step-by-step guide on how to effectively tackle your year-end review to position yourself for a promotion. Learn the importance of documenting your accomplishments, making your results measurable, and using the STAR format to clearly articulate your contributions. Discover how personal branding, soliciting feedback, and setting personal development goals can enhance your review process. Understand the value of being proactive, handling constructive criticism, and preparing for compensation discussions.

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Dream big, plan bigger! How to Turn ChatGPT into Your Career Coach Dec 11, 2024

In this episode, I challenge you to identify your 'North Star Goal' and utilize ChatGPT 4.0 as a personalized career coach. I emphasize the importance of setting lofty goals and provide a detailed step-by-step guide on how to prompt ChatGPT to create a strategic plan tailored to your career aspirations. By feeding ChatGPT comprehensive information about your achievements, strengths, and areas for improvement, you can get a customized roadmap that breaks down high-level goals into manageable daily tasks. I underscore the value of AI in professional development and encourage viewers to adopt this innovative approach to advance their careers.

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Finding Purpose through Adversity: Ingrid Jean-Baptiste's Lesson Dec 04, 2024

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I welcome Ingrid Jean Baptiste, a journalist, actor, and founder director of the Chelsea Film Festival. Ingrid shares her inspiring journey of creating the festival after a life-changing car accident. She discusses her passion for promoting the work of emerging filmmakers and raising awareness about global issues. She talks about the impact of the festival, her personal resilience, and the importance of following one's intuition. Ingrid also reflects on her outspoken activism and how she hopes to leave her mark on the world through her work.

Use my link https://porkbun.com/LeaveYourMark24 to get a .bio domain for less than $2 now at Porkbun!

The Strategic Missteps of Jaguar's Rebrand: A Fashion Marketer's Analysis Nov 27, 2024

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I analyze Jaguar's recent controversial rebranding campaign, 'Copy Nothing.' As someone deeply embedded in luxury marketing, watching Jaguar's recent "Copy Nothing" rebrand was akin to witnessing a heritage fashion house abandon its signature codes. The automotive equivalent of Saint Laurent dropping Yves is a move that requires precision, strategy, and, above all, deep market understanding.

Jaguar's pivot from its storied British luxury codes to stark minimalism, no doubt visually inspired by the beauty and fashion worlds, reflects a fundamental misread of the luxury market, their customer, and the climate today. Brands must evolve, but Jaguar's approach stripped away the DNA that positioned them in the luxury automotive sector in the first place.

Drawing parallels to successful luxury fashion rebrands – consider Gucci under Michele or Celine under Slimane – even radical departures maintained a dialogue with house codes. The most successful brand evolutions in the luxury sector don't erase heritage; they recontextualize it. Jaguar's break with their visual legacy demonstrates a disconnect with contemporary luxury marketing principles.

Join me for a marketing-focused episode where I discuss Jaguar's drastic changes to their logo and brand identity and the significant backlash the campaign received. I explain the importance of not abandoning brand heritage and engaging cross-functional teams in rebranding. Drawing on my experiences with major rebrands, I offer crucial lessons for marketers on navigating brand evolution without alienating existing customers.

In luxury markets, whether automotive or fashion, brand equity is built over decades but can be compromised in a single season. The key lies in evolution that honors legacy while embracing the future – a lesson Jaguar's rebrand makes painfully clear.

00:00 Introduction to Leave Your Mark

00:26 Jaguar's Controversial Rebrand

01:12 Analyzing the Campaign's Flaws

02:42 Lessons for Marketers

05:52 Comparing with Successful Campaigns

10:16 The Fallout and Future Steps

12:55 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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The Big Stay: Turn Career Stagnancy into a Power Move Nov 20, 2024

In this solo episode, I discuss the current employment climate known as 'The Big Stay,' where employers have the upper hand and job-switching opportunities are scarce. But don't get discouraged. Staying put doesn't have to be negative. This episode contains actionable career advice to make the most out of your current role and keep your eye on the future.

Additionally, I offer strategies for those who may feel unhappy in their job, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a positive outlook and planning for a future career move while maximizing the benefits of your current role. The episode also touches on managerial responsibilities in keeping teams engaged and maintaining open communication.

Key topics include:

- From the Great Resignation to the Big Stay

- Building Credibility While Staying Put

- Proactivity: The Key to Avoid Stagnation

- Leveraging Social Capital

- Innovate and Contribute

- Mentorship and Networking: A Dual Approach

- Maintaining an Online Presence

- Strategic Reflection and Future Planning

- Managers: Fostering Engagement in Teams

- Embrace The Silver Linings

Moving On: How to Grieve and Grow Beyond Your Former Career Nov 13, 2024

Grieving a career you loved is challenging, but it's a natural part of moving forward. In this solo episode, I share how to acknowledge, reflect, and recreate your path on a new journey. I delve into the often-overlooked painful aspect of leaving a long-term career or industry. The emotional challenge and identity crisis that can accompany such a change are not spoken about enough. The episode offers practical advice on how to acknowledge your feelings, identify what you loved about your previous role, maintain your professional network, and find new ways to stay relevant and creative. Emphasizing the importance of personal branding and self-reflection exercises from 'On Brand,' I share practical tips to help you navigate through this transition. Remember, while your career may have changed, you remain the same skilled, valuable person.

Your Daily Personal Branding Challenge Begins NOW Nov 09, 2024

Raise your hand if you want to upgrade your personal brand but don’t know where to begin?

Today is the day you can start to take your first steps!

Dive into my latest episode and discover how small changes can make a big impact. This episode delivers actionable steps that you have no excuse not to employ TODAY. From updating your bios and profile pictures to creating a compelling email signature and leveraging your network connections, I provide practical steps you can take immediately.

Tune in to learn about the importance of visualization, overcoming fear, broadcasting your achievements through storytelling, and using fashion to make a powerful impression. Whether you're starting out or looking to advance your career, this episode has invaluable insights for everyone

How to Showcase Your Worth Without Bragging Oct 30, 2024

Do you have to brag to build your personal brand? The answer is no. In this episode, I address the common confusion between personal branding and bragging, emphasizing the importance of creatively shaping your narrative to show off your skills without boasting. I share a personal anecdote highlighting this issue and provide practical advice for showing your professional worth, especially on LinkedIn. Topics covered include the significance of storytelling in conveying skills, creating diverse content on social media, and avoiding the overuse of self-promotion. I also discuss the importance of embracing video content and teaching others through your posts.

Leveraging Lateral Career Moves for Long-term Gains with Karyn Schoenbart Oct 25, 2024

Imagine what your life would be like if your mother was the CEO of a global company. She could provide advice to propel your career and help you overcome the many stumbling blocks that keep people from fulfilling their full potential at work.

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I sit down with the inspiring Karyn Schoenbart, the co-founder and managing director of Duo Partners, a New York-based investment and consulting firm. Karyn shares incredible insights into how you can master your career growth, learn to be a leader, and build a robust network. The episode delves into Karen's illustrious professional journey, from leading the MPD Group, joining illustrious boards, and co-authoring the book Mom, B.A., Essential Business Advice from One Generation to the Next, a practical guide to everything from effective first impressions and workplace politics to relationship development, skill-building, and achieving balance between work and family. The book is based on the real-life business lessons Karyn amassed during her career.

Our conversation highlights critical career lessons and debunking myths, such as the stigma around making lateral career moves. Karen shares practical advice on overcoming imposter syndrome, negotiation strategies, and achieving work-life balance through strategic calendar management. You won't believe how she manages her calendar! She's also a master connector and shares how she builds significant relationships and mutual support through 'Conversations and Cocktails', a vibrant private community for C-level women. This episode provides a blend of inspiring personal anecdotes and actionable steps you can take right now.

Unlocking Your True Potential with Human Design Expert Emma Dunwoody Oct 16, 2024

In this fascinating episode of Leave Your Mark, I speak to Human Design expert and author of Human Design Made Simple, Emma Dunwoody, who shares transformative insights on this unique system of self-knowledge. Emma delves into the origins and scientific validity of Human Design, a system combining elements of astrology, the chakra system, Kabbalah, and I Ching to offer a comprehensive blueprint for understanding personality, strengths, weaknesses, and communication styles. Discover the five Human Design types - Manifestors, Generators, Manifesting Generators, Projectors, and Reflectors - and learn how to navigate your unique strategy and authority to minimize resistance and increase life flow. Emma also discusses the impact of Human Design on parenting, business, mental health, and the importance of self-acceptance. Tune in to explore Emma's personal journey, the healing power of aligning with one's true self, and how to achieve success and abundance by being authentic. Don't miss out on Emma's vision of a future where children grow up true to their design and how you can work with her through her authentic success club and personal coaching.

00:00 Welcome to Leave Your Mark

00:30 Introducing Emma Dunwoody and Human Design

02:25 Emma's Journey to Human Design

05:57 Skepticism and Science in Human Design

11:42 Understanding Human Design Types

17:32 Writing the Book: Human Design Made Simple

19:42 The Specificity of Human Design

20:28 Personal Transformation Through Human Design

24:11 Impact on Relationships

27:30 Understanding Shadow Selves

30:20 Human Design and Mental Health

34:15 Finding Flow State

36:01 Creating Abundance by Bending Time

38:41 Working with Emma

39:26 Emma's Legacy and Conclusion

From Crown Jewel to Cautionary Tale: Gwen Whiting on Navigating the Pitfalls of Corporate Acquisition Oct 09, 2024

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I sit down with Gwen Whiting, the innovative founder behind the eco-friendly brand The Laundress, later acquired by Unilever. Gwen recounts her unique journey from her crafty upbringing to becoming a pioneer in the premium laundry sector. She shares the highs of building a celebrated brand and the sobering challenges faced post-acquisition. The discussion is a cautionary tale about the realities and risks of selling a business to a large corporation, highlighting the lack of personal care and attention that often accompanies such transitions. Listeners will learn about the importance of instinct in branding, fostering genuine supplier relationships, and the often-overlooked realities of selling a business. Now, with the launch of The Fill, Gwen is once again reinventing the cleaning industry with sustainable solutions and a private members community. Aspiring entrepreneurs will find invaluable insights into maintaining passion, managing growth responsibly, and the significance of staying true to one’s vision despite corporate challenges.

The Battle Between Motherhood and Ambition: Emily Tisch Sussman’s Unfiltered Story Oct 02, 2024

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I sit down with Emily Tisch Sussman, the creator and host of the award-winning podcast 'She Pivots', a Tony-nominated producer, the Co-owner of Gotham FC, and a political strategist. We discuss Emily's viral article 'My Children Killed My Career,' which explores how having children shifted her career trajectory. Emily candidly shares her struggles of balancing a demanding career in political strategy while raising three young children, her journey of self-discovery, reclaiming her professional identity, and the importance of building personal brand equity. She also touches on her experiences entering the sports industry and the significance of meaningful connections.

00:00 Welcome to Leave Your Mark: Meet Emily Tisch Sussman

00:57 Emily's Viral Article: My Children Killed My Career

02:51 Balancing Career and Motherhood: The Struggles

05:38 The Turning Point: Finding a New Path

08:41 Reinventing Success: Building Equity in Your Name

11:38 Navigating New Spaces: Authenticity and Adaptability

12:40 Law School Challenges: Overcoming Self-Doubt

15:39 Embracing the Unknown: The Drive for New Challenges

17:29 Burnout and Intensity

17:43 Gotham FC and White House Challenge

19:09 Parenting Perspectives

21:26 Sports and Family Legacy

25:24 Networking and Meaningful Connections

28:58 Personal Boundaries and Success Metrics

31:22 Skincare and Final Thoughts

Aliza Licht Reveals Her Top Rules for Authentic Social Media Engagement and Performance Sep 25, 2024

I've been getting so many questions about my social media strategy, so I finally made an episode about it! In the latest episode of Leave Your Mark, I share my personal rules and tips for authentic engagement. I delve into my personal strategies and unwritten rules for effective social media engagement and performance, especially on Instagram. Spoiler alert: I discuss why I avoid a content calendar, emphasize posting out of passion rather than obligation, and outline the importance of brand guardrails. I provide insights on identifying stakeholders, staying genuine, and using native platform tools to optimize performance. I also share practical tips on content creation, visual identity, and cross-platform strategies to enhance personal branding. The episode spills a lot of tea on how to creating meaningful and impactful social media content.

00:00 Introduction to Social Media Rules

01:17 The Importance of Authentic Posting

02:16 Understanding Brand Guardrails

02:54 Defining Your Social Media Goals

05:41 Content Pillars and Visual Identity

13:34 Effective Use of Social Media Tools

18:36 Collaborations and Posting Strategies

24:27 Final Thoughts and Platform Strategies

Mastering the Art of Writing That Gets Noticed with Estelle Erasmus Sep 18, 2024

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I welcome esteemed writer and professor Estelle Erasmus. Together, we delve into actionable tips for creating writing that stands out and resonates with readers. Estelle shares insights from her book, 'Writing That Gets Noticed: Find Your Voice, Become a Better Storyteller, Get Published,' and her extensive career in public relations and editorial roles, offering practical advice for pitching to editors and finding one’s unique voice. You’ll also learn about the importance of crafting compelling titles, starting stories in the middle, and using specific, evocative language to paint vivid pictures. Additionally, Estelle emphasizes continuous learning and maintaining a beginner’s mindset to excel in the writing field.

Aliza Licht on Blake Lively's "It Ends With Us" Marketing Fail and Brand Misstep Sep 12, 2024

I've been waiting a month to discuss the Blake Lively It Ends With Us controversy on the podcast because I wanted to see how it would all unfold. First and foremost, the marketing strategy of It Ends With Us leaned heavily into a floral theme. For those who haven't read the book, Blake Lively's character, Lily Bloom, is a florist. However, the film is far from a rom-com; it tackles the severe issue of domestic violence.

Simultaneously launching her new haircare brand, Blake Brown, alongside the film only added to the misalignment. Originally, the movie was slated for an earlier release, but delays pushed it to coincide with her brand launch. This scenario should have triggered a reevaluation and rescheduling of the launch dates despite the costs involved.

But, the most shocking misstep was Blake's interview to promote the film.

Last, the haircare brand has taken some PR hits, with customers giving it negative reviews on TikTok and many returning it to Target. Is this just typical retail woes or grassroots activism from angry fans?

Dive into my analysis.

Runway of Dreams: Mindy Scheier's Mission for Inclusive Fashion Sep 04, 2024

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I sit down with my friend, Mindy Scheier, the founder of the Runway of Dreams Foundation. This episode begins on a personal note, discussing our shared experiences as mothers of sons with different forms of Muscular Dystrophy.

Mindy discusses her journey from the fashion industry to creating adaptive clothing inspired by her son Oliver's desire to wear jeans. His issue? He can't close the buttons. This plea sent Mindy off on her journey, starting with the groundbreaking collaboration she secured with Tommy Hilfiger to launch an adaptive clothing line and the importance of making fashion inclusive for people with disabilities.

Mindy also talks about her non-profit's initiatives, including adaptive runway shows and college programs, and her talent management company, Gamut, which advocates for the inclusion of people with disabilities in fashion and media and helps companies find authentic ways to engage with, create products for and represent people with disabilities.

The episode highlights key moments, such as Mindy's collaborations with major brands, the creation of the Gamut Seal of Approval, and even the successful adaptation of her son Oliver's accommodations at Tulane University. This episode is incredibly inspiring as we end with Mindy's aspiration to make the world more inclusive, hopefully aiming for a future where the need for discussions about disability inclusion is obsolete.

Aliza Licht on the Right Way to Introduce Yourself: Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them Aug 28, 2024

Struggling with your professional introduction? In today's snack segment on Leave Your Mark, I share easy tips to nail your intro every time. I provide simple yet essential career advice on the importance of crafting a concise and impactful professional introduction, emphasizing the need for clarity, brevity, and prioritization of vital information when introducing oneself. The episode underlines that a well-crafted introduction is key to being memorable and effective in professional networking.

Fashion as Empowerment: How Gayle Perry Transforms Lives Through Style Aug 21, 2024

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I sit down with my friend and former colleague, Gayle Perry, a renowned fashion personal stylist and interior designer known for her empowering and healing approach to style. Gayle shares her journey from a challenging childhood where she was bullied to how she turned pain into purpose and became a force in the fashion industry. With a deep belief in the power of clothing to instill confidence and transform lives, Gayle discusses her unique styling techniques, her experiences working with high-profile fashion brands, and how she helps clients of all body types and budgets feel their most confident. Gayle's story is one of resilience, creativity, and the healing power of style.

Main Takeaways:

Fashion as Empowerment: Gayle emphasizes that clothing is not just about appearances but can serve as armor, helping individuals feel confident and capable. Her personal experience of finding strength through fashion informs her approach to styling others.
Turning Pain into Purpose: Gayle's childhood experiences, including being bullied and growing up in a divorced home, led her to discover the empowering potential of fashion. This has fueled her mission to help others feel confident and strong through what they wear.
High-Low Styling Philosophy: Gayle advocates for a mix of high-end and affordable fashion pieces, demonstrating that style is accessible to everyone, regardless of budget. Her approach includes practical tips like the "Gayle tuck" and "Gayle tie" to enhance any outfit.
Importance of Presentation: Gayle discusses how thoughtful dressing impacts not only personal confidence but also how others perceive and trust you. Even in a remote work environment, she stresses the importance of dressing well to boost productivity and self-esteem.
Personal Connection and Mentorship: Gayle's work goes beyond mere styling; she often acts as a mentor and emotional support for her clients, helping them rediscover their self-worth and confidence through personalized fashion guidance.

Whether you're looking to reignite your passion, redefine your style, or simply find the confidence to stand out, this episode will inspire you to take action.

Rebuild and Rebrand: Managing Unexpected Career Setbacks Aug 14, 2024

Rebuild and Rebrand: Managing Unexpected Career Setbacks

A CONVERSATION WITH AMY SHOENTHAL AND ALIZA LICHT

This might be the most comprehensive career advice episode on Leave Your Mark!!

Recently laid off? Didn't get that promotion you were working towards? Impacted by company restructuring? Hitting a career slump and in need of motivation?

Award-winning marketers and leadership experts Aliza Licht (author of On Brand) and Amy Shoenthal (author of The Setback Cycle) hosted a live mentorship session,sharing actionable steps you can take to navigate inevitable career setbacks, using them to shape your narrative and propel you forward.

We share guidance that will help you identify the best time for a pivot, show you how to confidently navigate any setbacks you're facing, and offer ways to strategically position yourself as you craft your path forward.

Topics covered:

MINDSET/OVERCOMING FEAR/ JUST GETTING STARTED

JOB MARKET + LAYOFF NAVIGATION

SETBACK NAVIGATION

PERSONAL BRANDING

SENIOR-LEVEL TRANSITION

SOCIAL MEDIA

BALANCING MOTHERHOOD and AGEISM

FEELING STUCK IN A ROLE

CONSULTING/SIDE HUSTLE

GOAL SETTING

STAYING MOTIVATED

Behind the Mic: Vanessa James's Journey from Stutterer to Voiceover Queen Aug 07, 2024

In this new Leave Your Mark episode, I sit down with Vanessa James. Vanessa is the CEO and Founder of Vanessa James Media (VJMedia), a multi-media company where she celebrates her passions for voiceover, storytelling, travel, and on-camera hosting. You may not know her name, but you definitely know her voice. Known as "the voice you hear everywhere," Vanessa is a sought-after, seasoned multicultural voiceover actress who has lent her voice and talents to some of the world's most iconic brands. Her captivating voice can be heard nationwide on television, over 30 radio stations, and in the bustling yellow cabs of New York City on 103.5 KTU. Vanessa has voiced campaigns for Netflix, CW Network, PGA Tour, Amazon, IHeartMedia, and more.

Vanessa's early years were marked by a significant speech impediment—a stutter that could have easily deterred her from pursuing a career that relies so heavily on clear and precise communication. Instead of letting this challenge define her, Vanessa transformed it into a powerful narrative of overcoming adversity. Her story is a potent reminder that our perceived weaknesses can be harnessed into our greatest strengths with determination and the right mindset.

In this episode, you'll learn how Vanessa transformed challenges into triumphs, empowers women in media, and why she never stops learning how to perfect her craft. Vanessa's story is a powerful reminder that anything is possible with determination and hard work.

Breaking Fashion Norms: Tanya Taylor’s Fearless Path to Success Jul 31, 2024

From the get-go, Tanya Taylor's upbringing set her apart. Growing up with parents who traveled the world with the Red Cross, Tanya was immersed in a rich tapestry of cultures and experiences. Her childhood home brimmed with diverse artifacts from around the globe, from Indonesian carved wooden temples to Thai silks. This exposure cultivated an insatiable curiosity and an appreciation for the world’s diversity, laying the groundwork for her fearless approach to fashion.

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I sit down with Tanya to discuss her journey and the driving forces behind her brand. Though Tanya initially pursued a degree in finance at McGill University, her creative spirit led her to Parsons School of Design. Here, she found her tribe and realized her true calling. Her subsequent internship at Elizabeth and James under Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen allowed her to blend her business acumen with her design passion. This experience was instrumental in shaping her understanding of the industry and inspiring her to create her own brand.

Entering the fashion industry is no small feat, and Tanya’s journey was significantly shaped by the mentorship she received through the Vogue Fashion Fund. Collaborating with industry veterans like Anna Wintour, Jenna Lyons, and Diane von Furstenberg provided her with invaluable insights and guidance. Tanya’s journey and insights offer a beacon of inspiration to anyone looking to carve their own path in the fashion industry.

Tanya’s brand stands out not just for its vibrant prints and hand-painted elements but also for its emphasis on size inclusivity. Inspired by her mother's fluctuating confidence tied to available clothing options, Tanya set out to create a brand that offers comfort and empowerment to women of all sizes. Her approach to fashion is deeply rooted in making every woman feel confident and comfortable in her own skin.

In this episode, Tanya provides insights into her brand's success, leadership style, hiring practices, and how she cultivates creativity within her team. Whether you're an aspiring fashion designer or an established professional, this episode offers valuable lessons on following passion, embracing creativity, and building a successful brand.

LinkedIn Personal Branding: What to Post and What to Avoid Jul 24, 2024

Ever wonder if your LinkedIn posts are hurting or helping you professionally? Do you ever consider how people in your network feel consuming them? Are you someone that people want to mute? In this episode of 'Leave Your Mark,' I focus on effective personal branding on LinkedIn, sharing practical tips on how to post valuable and engaging content without coming off as self-centered or insincere. The episode explores common pitfalls like oversharing, bragging, and creating disingenuous posts. It also provides actionable advice on crafting posts that foster a positive personal brand.

00:00 Introduction: Are You Being Muted on Social Media?

00:36 The Importance of LinkedIn for Professionals

01:18 Shaping Your Narrative: Dos and Don'ts

02:15 Avoiding the Bragging Trap

03:18 Creating Value-Driven Posts

05:03 Engagement Strategies and Pitfalls

09:05 Balancing Vulnerability and Professionalism

11:48 Authenticity vs. Disingenuous Content

13:37 Final Thoughts on Personal Branding

Redefining Self-Care: Erica Diamond on Burnout Prevention and Time Management Jul 17, 2024

In this episode of 'Leave Your Mark,' I sit down with Erica Diamond, a certified life and career coach, yoga and meditation teacher, and founder of the women's empowerment brand EricaDiamond.com. We discuss prioritizing self-care, recognizing burnout, and practical tips for time management. Erica shares her personal journey from a young entrepreneur facing burnout to a wellness advocate, providing actionable advice on managing stress, setting boundaries, and incorporating self-care into daily routines. You'll also learn about the importance of delegation, the power of walking and breathing exercises, and the concept of 'smart care.'

Is JLo Over? Analyzing the State of Jennifer Lopez's Personal Brand Jul 11, 2024

Jennifer Lopez has a lot going on right now, and her personal brand isn't telling a pretty story. You might assume her celebrity woes are due to overexposure, but I have a different take. You see celebrities, they're not like us. They don't like to pay attention to the chatter, and lord knows they don't like reading the comments. But when you find yourself performing in an almost empty stadium in Italy, it's time to take a long, hard look at yourself and do a brand audit. Can JLo reset and evolve, or is she over? Analyzing perceptions from social media, I delve into criticisms of JLo's public image, including her perceived lack of relatability and fan engagement. Drawing from my experience as a former fashion publicist who has worked with JLo, I make some recommendations for JLo's necessary rebrand if she wants to stay relevant in today's social media-driven world.

How Larissa Thomson Leaned Into Her Intuition to Ideate the Launch and Reinvention of Onda Beauty Jul 03, 2024

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I welcome my longtime friend and former industry colleague, Larissa Thompson. We discuss Larissa's path from graphic design to the fashion industry and eventually co-founding Onda Beauty in 2016. She aimed to create a beauty and spa destination dedicated to a curated collection of clean, conscious, and safe beauty products. Larissa shares her journey of identifying a gap in the market, manifesting her vision, and building a community in a trusted space to discover, learn, and experience clean beauty products.

The episode also delves into her many challenges, including the sale and eventual repurchase of Onda Beauty from bankruptcy. With anecdotes about friends helping during tough times and the importance of authenticity, Larissa gives a deep insight into her personal and professional growth through these experiences. The episode is filled with career advice, entrepreneurial spirit, and the importance of following one's intuition.

3 Takeaways from Last Night's Presidential Debate That Can Impact Your Career Jun 28, 2024

There are millions of people doing commentary on last night's presidential debate. You don't come to the Leave Your Mark podcast for political commentary. Instead, I have broken down the three most important takeaways from the debate, based on my book, On Brand: Shape Your Narrative. Share Your Vision. Shift Their Perspective., ones that can significantly impact your career.

Personal Branding Myths with Aliza Licht Jun 26, 2024

In my first solo episode of the Leave Your Mark podcast, I dive into the common myths of personal branding. Does it make you cringe or does it make you credible? There are many misconceptions surrounding strategy, and I address common misconceptions about personal branding, such as the idea that it is primarily about self-promotion or that it requires complete transparency. I also deliver tactical and specific actionable advice on how to build a personal brand that accurately reflects your professional identity and values, underscoring the value of taking up space confidently. This episode serves as a teaser of much more advice in my book, ON BRAND, and how to manage your personal brand effectively, both online and offline.

Insider Secrets of Influencer Marketing with Aliza Freud Jun 19, 2024

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I sit down with Aliza Freud, founder and CEO of SheSpeaks, to discuss the evolution of influencer marketing and the nuances of understanding women's consumer behavior. We explore Aliza's experiences from her time at American Express, the concept of the female reality gap, and the importance of authentic influencer collaborations. The conversation highlights how She Speaks uses data and qualitative research to help brands target their audience effectively, as well as the ongoing challenges and successes in the influencer industry, particularly for women. We also explore how the industry has shifted towards content that is native to social platforms and the continuing battle for pay equity among female influencers. This insightful discussion provides actionable career advice and underscores the importance of diversification, authenticity, and understanding consumer benefits over product features.

The Shocking Truth About Career Setbacks and Success with Amy Shoenthal Jun 12, 2024

In this episode of 'Leave Your Mark,' I sit down with my friend, Amy Shoenthal, a seasoned journalist, marketing consultant, and author of The Setback Cycle: How Defining Moments Can Move Us Forward, a USA Today bestseller. We all know what failure feels like, but what if we are sleepwalking into a setback? What does that feel like? How do we proactively protect ourselves against it, or is it a defining movement that will ultimately move us forward? Amy and I discuss the pervasive nature of setbacks, especially in the context of societal and professional challenges. Amy shares insights from her book, which includes stories of leaders who have overcome significant obstacles to create impactful ventures. We explore the concept of setbacks through a four-phase framework: Establish, Embrace, Explore, and Emerge. The conversation also delves into the importance of resilience, combating self-doubt with an 'inner hype person,' and the role of continuous learning and personal branding in navigating and rebounding from setbacks.

Alix Strauss on Seizing Second Chances and the Emotional Spectrum of Loneliness and Human Connection Jun 05, 2024

Sex & the City meets Six Feet Under was how Alix Strauss' novel, The Joy of Funerals, was described by the LA Times 20 years ago. Inspired by a 1988 piece for the Lives section of the New York Times Magazine, this trend, culture, and lifestyle journalist and award-winning and four-time published author discussed her obsession with funerals.

As an only child, Alix's personal experiences and unique perspective on life are deeply intertwined with her work. She felt the greatest connections to others at family funerals, the only occasions when she would see most of her relatives. The Joy of Funerals is a collection of humorous short stories that will both captivate and disturb you. But this trend journalist and author was way ahead of her time.

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I sit down with Alix to discuss her decision to give her groundbreaking and controversial book a second chance by rereleasing it for its 20th anniversary at a time when grief and a loneliness epidemic are even more prevalent in today's society. Alix shares her personal experiences, and the profound narratives explored in her work, shedding light on the human desire for connection amidst life's extremes. The discussion also touches upon the broader implications of social media, pandemic influences, and the changing landscape of storytelling.

Host's note: This episode was recorded prior to October 7th.

Transform Your Relationship with Food: Insights from Kim Shapira May 29, 2024

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I sit down with Kim Shapira, celebrity dietitian, nutritional therapist, and author of "This is What You're Really Hungry For: Six Simple Rules to Transform Your Relationship with Food to Become Your Healthiest Self." Kim breaks down the fundamentals of transforming one's relationship with food, and we relate all of this to work. Whether it's stress eating or feeling like you "deserve it" after a hard day, our relationship with food and our careers are intertwined. Drawing on her 25+ years of experience, Kim breaks down her 'Kim Shapira Method,' which includes six simple rules to help people eat healthier and manage their weight. She delves into the influence of emotional triggers and the importance of sleeping well, staying hydrated, and getting enough physical activity. Kim also shares personal anecdotes from her journey and insights on the controversial diet drug Ozempic. The episode provides actionable advice for anyone looking to change their eating habits and overall well-being.

Reinvention Through Resilience: Karen Robinovitz's Journey from Digital Pioneer to Slime Mogul May 22, 2024

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I sit down with my friend Karen Robinovitz, a multi-faceted entrepreneur and visionary. Karen shares her diverse career journey, from a journalist contributing to major publications and authoring a book to pioneering the digital influencer management industry with Digital Brand Architects (DBA) and co-founding Sloomoo Institute, an interactive experience focused on joy and play through slime. Karen discusses her unique ability to foresee trends, from the rise of digital media to the influencer movement and the therapeutic role of tactile play in her personal grief recovery. The episode also explores Karen's contribution to addressing mental health, inclusion, and neurodiversity through Sloomoo. While discussing her career, Karen and I discussed the rise of antisemitism and the importance of speaking up against hatred. It's worth noting that this episode was filmed before October 7th. Karen's story is a testament to the power of resilience, healing through passion projects, and the impact of reinventing oneself and one's career.

Shelmina Abji's Strategies on How to Show Your Worth May 15, 2024

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I sit down with Shelmina Babai Abji, Founder and CEO, ShowYourWorth.ai, a distinguished speaker, bestselling author, and former high-ranking executive at IBM. Shelmina discusses her journey from humble beginnings in Tanzania to becoming a key female figure in the tech industry and her mission to advance gender equality in leadership roles. She shares insights from her book, 'Show Your Worth: 8 Intentional Practices for Women to Emerge as Leaders at Work,' offering strategies for women to maximize their leadership potential and create unique value in their careers. She highlights the importance of overcoming fear, building a personal brand, and demonstrating value for advancement. Shelmina's story is a testament to resilience, empowerment, and the critical role of intentionality in achieving professional success.

The Wicked Fearless Way: Madison Ciccone's Recipe for Realization and Resilience May 08, 2024

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I welcome Madison Ciccone, a former Hollywood executive assistant turned top SoulCycle instructor and confidence coach. We discuss Madison's career transformation, from her early days in Hollywood to finding her true calling in fitness and coaching with SoulCycle. Madison shares insights into the fast-paced Hollywood lifestyle and her transition into fitness, emphasizing the importance of aligning success with purpose and fun.

She also talks about creating her brand, Wicked Fearless, aimed at motivating women through virtual coaching sessions initiated during the COVID-19 lockdowns. Today, it embodies her mission to help women identify their purpose, harness bravery, and take bold action in their lives. Madison's approach is unique and intertwined with her journey and struggles, making her teachings all the more powerful and relatable.

At the heart of Madison's story is the theme of fearlessness — not the absence of fear, but the courage to confront and dance with it. She highlights the importance of spirituality, self-reflection, and letting go of past baggage to uncover one's true message. By embracing the highs and lows of her journey, Madison advocates for authenticity, resilience, and the continual pursuit of self-discovery. Our conversation covers a range of topics, including the power of vulnerability, the role of spirituality in achieving success, and strategies for overcoming the comparison trap and building confidence.

As Madison emphasizes, leaving a mark on the world isn't just about achieving personal success; it's about amplifying the greatness already within others and making every interaction a chance to impact someone's life positively. Her story is a powerful reminder that finding and following one's joy and purpose can lead to unimaginable fulfillment and inspire others to do the same.

Melissa DeRosa's Journey Through Politics and Crisis, Resilience and Reinvention, and Making Sure Nothing is Left Unsaid May 01, 2024

As the first woman to serve as Secretary to former Governor Cuomo, the highest unelected position in state government, Melissa DeRosa knows how to thrive under pressure. In her riveting memoir, "What's Left Unsaid: My Life at the Center of Power, Politics & Crisis," she candidly shares her journey through politics, government, and becoming an author.

From the frontlines of the COVID crisis to the real events behind Governor Andrew Cuomo's meteoric rise and unfathomable fall, Melissa, one of the most powerful women in New York State government, has been on the frontlines every step of the way.She opens up about personal sacrifices, navigating crises, and the support and controversy surrounding Governor Cuomo. Reflecting on her sudden thrust into the public eye, Melissa touches on the complex dynamics of personal branding, calling into question the narratives we construct around public figures and advocating for a more nuanced understanding beyond superficial judgments.

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, Melissa shares her career journey from her early days in fashion PR to her rapid rise in New York State's political arena, with an unprecedented view into the behind-the-scenes crisis management of the COVID-19 pandemic.

On this show and in her book, she shares the personal challenges she faced with raw honesty and vulnerability—a failing marriage, infertility, death threats, misogyny—all while navigating unprecedented professional landmines along the way.

Behind the Pages with Marisa Meltzer: Glossy's Tale and the Beauty Industry Apr 24, 2024

In beauty, few names resonate as vibrantly as Marisa Meltzer. Renowned for her thought-provoking journalism and bestselling books, Meltzer has become a beacon of insightful commentary on the personal and professional narratives that shape our cultural landscape. Her latest book, Glossy: The Inside Story of Emily Weiss's Glossier, not only cements her status as a leading voice but also offers an unparalleled glimpse into the potent mix of ambition, innovation, and struggle that defines the beauty industry today.

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, Marisa discusses her career, the beauty industry, and the making of Glossy, the bombshell exposé that reveals—for the first time—exactly what happened at Glossier, one of America's hottest and most consequential startups, and dives deep into Emily Weiss, the enigmatic, visionary woman responsible for it all.

We explore social media's pivotal role in its success and Marisa's take on the 'girl boss' era. She also touches upon the standards of beauty and body image in the current era, the intricate process of her reporting, and her next book project on Jane Birkin. The episode dives deep into the intersection of personal branding, industry dynamics, and the evolution of beauty standards.

From Unemployment to More Than a Million Books Sold: The Unstoppable Jen Lancaster Apr 17, 2024

In a world brimming with stories of success and determination, few are as captivating, hilarious, and inspiring as that of Jen Lancaster. Best known for her candid memoirs and inventive novels, Jen's journey from corporate vice president to bestselling author embodies resilience, wit, and an unmatched knack for storytelling. She is the New York Times bestselling author of nine memoirs, five adult novels, and one YA book. Jen has sold well over a million books. After a corporate layoff in 2001, down on her luck, and stuck selling off cars, jewelry, and designer purses [which she says sucked, FYI] Jen launched a website to air her frustrations about unemployment. She began detailing her descent from designer clothing and spa visits to the unemployment line on her blog jennsylvania.com.

Her acerbic wit quickly won the blog a massive following. Jen’s first memoir, Bitter is the New Black, was published in 2006. Since then, she has published [at least] one book a year, and her memoir The Tao of Martha was optioned for a sitcom by FOX. In this episode, she shares insights into her creative process, advice for aspiring writers, character development and the shift from non-fiction to fiction, her experiences with traditional and Amazon publishing, and the importance of personal branding and marketing in an author's career. Additionally, she discusses her recent projects, including her latest book 'House Moms', her work as a ghostwriter, editor, and her lessons learned along the way. Fun fact: Jen edited my latest book, On Brand!

Thriving Through Career Transitions with Octavia Goredema Apr 10, 2024

In this episode of Leave Your Mark, I speak with the CEO at Fire Memos, career coach, and author Octavia Gorodema, who shares her expert insights on navigating career transitions and overcoming obstacles. Octavia, who founded the Twenty Ten Agency and has worked with major corporations like Google and Nike, discusses her mission to help professionals thrive in their chosen fields. Known for her impactful career development work and Audible original series 'How to Change Careers,' Octavia shares invaluable insights on navigating career transitions, defining personal success, and actioning immediate career strategies. Highlighting her initial conversation with her clients about what success means to them, she emphasizes the importance of understanding individual career goals and the subjective nature of success. We discuss the challenges of career advancement, the necessity of recognizing one's worth, the concept of a 'portfolio career,' and the implications of workplace dynamics, especially in relation to management. Octavia provides:

A six-step plan for preparing for career setbacks.
Advocating for self-documentation of achievements.
Recognizing the common mistake of underestimating one's worth.
The power of energizing and motivating others to leave a lasting mark in their careers.

Octavia also talks about her book 'Prep, Push, Pivot,' which offers career strategies for underrepresented women, dealing with changes at work, handling difficult bosses, and the mistake many make of underestimating their worth. The episode is packed with practical tips for career advancement, the value of tracking accomplishments, and the power of energizing others through one's work.

Welcome to Leave Your Mark Season 14 Apr 10, 2024

Leave Your Mark is like The Devil Wears Prada meets career advice. That's what I thought of when I wrote my book in 2015. And this podcast is a continuation of everything I started back then.

I'm your host, Aliza Licht. I'm an award-winning marketer, two-time author, and personal branding expert, and I am your trusted guide every week, bringing you career advice and stories that you really don't hear anywhere else. Because here's the difference: my podcast is keeping it real. And I want to make sure when you listen to these episodes, you walk away feeling like, I can do that. I can literally take that advice and employ it tomorrow. Because we don't need fluffy advice and we don't need to hear people just bragging about their careers.

We need to hear real information that we can use. So join me this season, Season 14. I am so excited to be back. We have a stellar lineup of guests and this season I'm going to be doing something new. I am going to start some solo episodes based on my new book, On Brand, on specific topics. And I think it'll be really fun to have those episodes too.

So subscribe to the show. I can't wait to have you listen. And please remember that whatever you're going through right now, if change doesn't hurt a little, it's not change. Keep on rocking.

Aliza x

Taylor Lorenz Sets the Record Straight in Extremely Online: The Untold Story of Fame, Influence, and Power on the Internet Oct 01, 2023

How many journalists do you know who can simultaneously report a story and inadvertently become the story? Taylor Lorenz sits in a class by herself. As a technology journalist for The Washington Post, she doesn't just report on the latest trend but writes about topics with more significant meaning and what they say about the state of technology, media, and culture.

But as a creator and internet personality, Taylor has often become the story herself and a target by many. The backlash comes swiftly, frequently, and usually from right-wing media. Tucker Carlson's favorite pastime is bashing her every move. Fox has held entire segments around Taylor, and #TaylorLorenz is often a trending hashtag on Twitter (now X). Elon Musk has gone after her many times. The minute she publishes a story, she'll start trending, and the trolling begins. None of it is slowing Taylor down.

Taylor Lorenz has been the authority on internet culture for over a decade, documenting its far-reaching effects on all corners of our lives. In her first book, Extremely Online: The Untold Story of Fame, Influence, and Power on the Internet, debuts this week, she presents a groundbreaking social history of the internet—revealing how online influence and the creators who amass it have reshaped our world, online and off.

"It's important to set the record straight on where the "creator economy" emerged from because, in 2021, when Silicon Valley finally woke up and was forced to take internet culture seriously because of the pandemic, there was just so much revisionist history. They were talking about how MrBeast founded the notion of productizing himself — that's just not true. Beauty vloggers were doing that back in 2012. Mommy bloggers pioneered a lot of these revenue streams, so I wanted to also talk about that. No one has written that history. I want to tell the stories that have been written out of history by Silicon Valley," says Taylor.

In this episode, Taylor and I map her journey from former aspiring fashion publicist to globally renowned journalist. We cover the state of the creator economy, how she follows trends and the future of tech, where she sees social media heading, and most importantly, setting the record straight on its birth and evolution. I am honored to be included in her book for my work as the former DKNY PR GIRL social media personality I created and was the voice of from 2009-2015.

I have loved watching Taylor's career. Fun fact: her first work experience was as a PR intern at DKNY in my department! She has an exceptional finger on the pulse of the internet and the ability to see patterns others don't. I truly admire her strength and resistance to her haters. In her new book, Extremely Online, she shares "the inside, untold story of what we have done to the internet and what it has done to us."

How to Dream Big and Win and Create a Billion-Dollar Business with Liz Elting, One of Forbes's Richest Self-Made Women in America Sep 24, 2023

You don't need to invent something new to be a wildly successful entrepreneur. According to Liz Elting, one of Forbes's "Richest Self-Made Women in America," you only need to identify something you can do differently and better. Her new book, DREAM BIG AND WIN: Translating Passion into Purpose and Creating a Billion Dollar Business, captures all her learnings.After living, studying, and working in five countries across the globe, Liz Co-founded TransPerfect out of an NYU Stern dorm room in 1992.

At the time, there were already 10,000 language solutions companies in existence. In fact, she was working at the biggest one. However, Liz saw flaws in their service offerings and set out to do it better. She succeeded and built the largest language-solutions company in the world. She served as Co-CEO until 2018. Following her departure, Liz founded the Elizabeth Elting Foundation to break down systemic barriers, bridge gaps, and foster systemic change for women and other underserved communities so that people of every stripe can succeed, thrive, and reach their potential.

In 2020, the Elizabeth Elting Foundation launched the Halo Fund, a comprehensive multimillion-dollar pandemic relief initiative to directly support medical needs, hunger relief, health equity, and on-the-ground efforts in underserved communities. When Liz was at NYU, she tried to find books on starting a business, but none resonated with her, and she read many. In DREAM BIG AND WIN, Liz reveals a counterintuitive approach to success and divulges practical and inspiring tips you can implement immediately. Her refreshingly frank and humorous recollections of lessons in life and entrepreneurship serve as a guide for anyone who seeks to fulfill their highest potential.

DREAM BIG AND WIN is for anyone who has ever dreamed of translating their passion into purpose and creating something bigger than themselves—from one of the most successful women in America.This episode is full of tactical and sometimes surprising advice. Liz shares everything from why your goal should be to replace yourself, the shocking question she asks every candidate she interviews, why you should never be a 50/50 partner, and so much more.

Insider Intel on Job Hunting and Networking Hacks From LinkedIn's Catherine Fisher Sep 17, 2023

In this special edition of LEAVE YOUR MARK, I sit down with Catherine Fisher, Vice President of Integrated Data and Consumer Communications for LinkedIn. Because who's better than Catherine to share the information we need right now to ensure we navigate our careers strategically?

Catherine is an established marketing and communications leader and has worked for some of the most notable consumer brands, including Netflix and eBay, with more than 20 years of experience. Currently, she leads the consumer communications strategy for LinkedIn and serves as the company spokeswoman educating and inspiring people on how to think about and grow their careers.

Kate Doerge on Choosing Joy and Positivity Even in the Face of Tragedy Sep 10, 2023

After decades in marketing and communications and a new role as an operating partner at Traub, Kate Doerge never anticipated that she would also become a CEO. This new job, however, is the one her whole career has prepared her for and the one she was meant to do.

When Kate's daughter Penny rolled off the bed at four months old, what seemed like a typical tibia fracture uncovered a diagnosis called Neurofibromatosis, also known as NF. One out of 300,000 kids is diagnosed with NF. This genetic disorder causes tumors to grow on nerve pathways anywhere in the body. At the time, doctors encouraged them to focus on healing the leg and not google NF.

As parents, they were determined to make sure Penny lived a big, beautiful life. Even though she had her first surgery at 15 months old and was in a body cast for four months, she would commando crawl across the room in her bright pink cast bedazzled with gemstones. Nothing stopped Penny.

Throughout her life, Penny was never defined by her ailments. She also didn't hide from them. She knew she was different from most people but never referred to it. Over her short years, Penny endured seven orthopedic surgeries and 11 brain surgeries. She never felt sorry for herself. Penny lived as a typical social and funny teenage girl with a beautiful smile and someone who was always the life of the party. Sadly, NF took Penny at 16.

Within days of Penny's passing, Penny's Flight was launched in celebration of the extraordinary life of Penny Doerge and the qualities she personified — joy, artistic expression, and humor — while bravely living with Neurofibromatosis (NF) since infancy. The Foundation's mission is to make much-needed advances in medical research on Neurofibromatosis and related disorders — with a lasting impact on altering the course of this disease. There is no cure for NF, and research around the disease remains underfunded despite being one of the most common genetic disorders in the United States.

Through Penny's story and bright light, the Foundation aims to expand knowledge around NF while inspiring others to find beauty in imperfection, positivity in the face of challenge, and faith over fear. In less than a year, they have raised over $3 million for Penny's Flight, and this is just the beginning.

There is no greater tragedy than losing a child. Still, Kate Doerge and her husband, Chad Doerge, made a choice: to choose joy and positivity and focus on spreading their daughter Penny's light because living life with joy and optimism came naturally for Penny.

In this episode, Kate shares how she and Chad handle adversity and how their mentality of choosing joy and positivity has led them. Kate shares the steps they took to build this Foundation in a few days and how anyone can model this mindset to push through even the most tragic times. As Kate says, it's not about your lifespan but your wingspan. Penny always spread her wings and shined her light. This episode is about strength, resilience, and the power of positivity, everything Penny embodied. Penny lived her life's purpose and will continue to inspire others.

Leaving Toxic Relationships and Being Brave-ish with Lisa Niver Sep 03, 2023

Although Lisa Niver has traveled in far-off locales from Vanuatu to Nepal, received numerous accolades as an award-winning travel expert who has explored 102 countries and six continents, and is the founder of the website WeSaidGoTravel, what people don’t realize is that this began fromthe wreckage of a rotten romance. As a newlywed, Lisa was on the adventure of a lifetime. She had quit her job, rented her condo, and traveled around Asia. To the outside world, Lisa was a woman living out her dreams of exploring ancient ruins in Cambodia and seeing orangutans in Borneo. She kept a dark secret in private: an abusive relationship. But, when she found herself lying on a sidewalk in Thailand, looking up at the sky in severe pain, she knew things had to change. At age forty- seven, Niver found the courage to set course on a new life. Feeling like a failure, pushing fifty, and moving home to her parents' house to start again from scratch, Lisa began taking one tiny "brave-ish" step at a time to take her life far away from the old one and into the adventurous world of travel writing. These small hurdles led to the challenge of trying fifty new things before turning fifty. From diving into shipwrecks, swimming with sharks, bobsledding at 3Gs, indulging in wild escapades, Lisa found herself traversing the worldon a journey of reinvention, personal growth, and discovering what it actually means to be "brave." Her new book Brave-ish chronicles Lisa’s inspiring expeditions to distant corners of the world, including Myanmar, Cuba, Morocco, Kenya, and Mongolia, but this is more than a travelogue. Brave-ish inspires readers to dream big, take risks, and embrace the unknown to create a life filled with wonder and excitement, even when courage seems elusive. In this episode, Lisa shares how she saved herself, took risks, embraced the unknown, and pressed the reset button when she fell off track. She also shares how she taught herself to rest, not quit. Lisa's story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of perseverance.

Amanda Baldwin Shares the Secret to Gaining Management’s Trust, the Difference Between No and Not Now, and Why Passion for a Role Can Set You Apart Aug 27, 2023

Amanda Baldwin never considered herself an entrepreneur because she's technically not a founder. But her mindset shifted when she won Ernst & Young's Entrepreneur of the Year award in 2022. Amanda earned this distinction as a first-time CEO of Supergoop! the first protective skincare brand that puts SPF at the forefront because she has been breaking boundaries and innovating in her role from day one. Supergoop!'s mission is to change how the world thinks about sunscreen through its clean, feel-good, highly innovative formulas that are fun and easy to use daily. She has taken the brand to places no other sunscreen category has gone before. Amanda was also recently named one of the top 25 Women in Consumer HealthTech and a Woman of Influence by the New York Business Journal.

Amanda is a veteran of the beauty and finance industries, but this role as CEO is her first. Under her leadership for the past seven years, the company has grown well over 20x, become highly profitable, and secured a majority investment from Blackstone Growth, Blackstone's platform backing the next generation of category-creating brands. Beginner's luck? No way. Her educational and experience pedigree has shaped who she is today. She oversees the entirety of the organization, setting its strategy for growth, building a world-class team, and leading the company's marketing, sales, product development, operations, and finance divisions.

Before joining Supergoop! Amanda was a member of the operating team at L Catterton with a particular focus on the beauty sector. Prior to L Catterton, she led the omnichannel marketing strategy of Dior Beauty at LVMH, Inc. and held several positions at Clinique, a part of The Estee Lauder Companies. Her career began in finance as a private equity investor at Apax Partners and an investment banking analyst at Goldman Sachs.

In this episode, Amanda spills the secrets to her success, and spoiler alert: it involves putting in the hard work. We discuss what it means to innovate in a category, her views on marketing and partnerships, and why one of the biggest challenges of entrepreneurship is that you can see the big, big, big, big picture, but that doesn't mean you can do all of it right away. We dive deep into what she attributes to her success in gaining management's trust to test, learn, and iterate. She shares how she thinks about leadership, the matchmaking process of hiring, and why it's not just about knowing how to do the job but LOVING to do the job and how candidates can stand out from the pack.

About Amanda Baldwin

About Aliza Licht

Book Aliza to Speak

Books:

LEAVE YOUR MARK: Land Your Dream Job. Kill It In Your Career. Rock Social Media

ON BRAND: Shape Your Narrative. Share Your Vision. Shift Their Perception.

Follow:

On Instagram and TikTok @alizalichtxo @leaveyourmarkpodcast

On X @alizalicht

#alizalicht #leaveyourmark #leaveyourmarkpodcast #careeradvice #femalefounders #supergoop #podcast #amandabaldwin

Stacy Igel on Leading with Impact, Fashion Disruption, and Embracing the Future of Web3 and the Metaverse Aug 20, 2023

Stacy Igel took the plunge from corporate to launching her fashion brand in 2001. As the founder and creative director of BOY MEETS GIRL®, she set out to launch her first trunk show the week of September 11th. What she could have never anticipated is what happened instead. The catastrophic attack solidified her mission to create a brand that leads with impact. She has given back to causes important to her and the world ever since.

BOY MEETS GIRL® is known for its iconic double-silhouette logo and purposeful, edgy, contemporary athleisure wear. Stacy and BOY MEETS GIRL® seeks to promote the message that confidence and courage are trends that never go out of style.

She has partnered with everyone from Bergdorf Goodman and Target to the NBA's Chicago Bulls and Atlanta Hawks, to name just a few. She collaborates with musical artists, athletes, and activists, making an impact, as well as organizations including the Young Survival Coalition, BullyBust, Human Rights Watch, GLAM4GOOD, Youth Over Guns, and many others.

Her new book Embracing The Calm In the Chaos: How to Find Success in Business and Life Through Perseverance, Connection, and Collaboration is one of Barnes & Noble's Top 20 Best in Business Books where she shares her entrepreneurial journey and provides practical tips and takeaways for others to use in life and business.

In this episode, Stacy takes us on her journey of fashion disruption, embracing the calm in the chaos, how she thinks about partnerships, licensing, gaming, the Metaverse, and most of all, how she spends her time. As a working mom and someone who has her hands in everything, Stacy has been able to build a global brand while still managing to have fun.

Sophia Chabbott from Journalist to Beauty Founder by Answering the Question, "Why Not Me?" Aug 13, 2023

When we talk about career changes, we don't normally talk about someone going from a media role to becoming the founder of a beauty brand, but that's exactly what Sophia Chabbott did as the founder of Testament Beauty, a skincare line known for being the Mediterranean diet for your face. Testament Beauty is centered around the simple and stunningly beautiful garden-grown ingredients core to her family heritage and traditions. How did she come up with her tagline of being the Mediterranean diet for your face? She was tired of opening her medicine cabinet and being bombarded with messaging like prevent, correct, and repair.

Before founding Testament Beauty, Sophia was a journalist, and we worked together during her years at Women's Wear Daily and Glamour. I remember when Sophia told me she would launch a brand over dinner. Six years in the making, most notably because of her imposter syndrome, Sophia finally got out of her way and made her dream possible at the pivotal age of 40.

"I was telling my brother somebody should do a skincare line that is, you know, sort of like how we grew up, like the Mediterranean diet but for your face, and he was like, why not you?"

In this episode, Sophia shares her story and experience rising in her career to become a top-tier journalist and then saying goodbye to her media life to embrace the hustle life of being a start-up founder. She shares her fears, obstacles, and, ultimately, what made her move past her self-doubt to create something uniquely her own.

Stacey Stevenson From High School Dropout to CEO, How to Land a Job You Have No Experience In, and Why You Cancel Yourself When You’re Silent on Issues That Matter Jul 30, 2023

Stacey Stevenson dropped out of a rural high school in the South when they were pulled out of the closet. They worked at fast food restaurants to save enough money to move to Dallas to "do something with their life" because they were intent on making it in the corporate world. Stacey achieved just that with a long history of senior defense, technology, and finance roles. But in 2021, they turned their business acumen, lived experience, and passion to work for LGBTQ+ families and those who wish to form them.

As the first Black Chief Executive Officer at Family Equality, Stacey is a trailblazing leader, selected as one of Out Magazine's Out100 list — a compilation of the year's most impactful and influential LGBTQ+ people — in the fall of 2022.

Stacey has already ushered Family Equality through a tremendous chapter of growth. From expanding the organization's work to protect LGBTQ+ youth and families in schools to deepening the focus on lowering barriers to parenthood in our community, they have prioritized not only advancing lived and legal equality for LGBTQ+ families but also advancing racial and social justice for BIPOC communities, those living in rural areas, and those living at or below the poverty line. And they are just getting started.

A powerful speaker and motivator, Stacey regularly shares their experiences growing up LGBTQ+ in the rural South, being pulled out of the closet, and navigating life as a Black queer parent.

Stacey's advocacy has helped propel Family Equality further into the national spotlight with multiple appearances on The Sunday Show with Jonathan Capehart, a bipartisan panel discussion hosted at the U.S. Capitol, collaborations with movement partners, countless speaking engagements, and media appearances including an op-ed in USA TODAY. In the op-ed, Stacey shared their family's story of moving from their home state of Texas in search of a more welcoming community. Stacey, wife Cheralyn, and 8-year-old twin boys, Duke and London, enjoy the life they are building in Washington, D.C.

In this episode, Stacey shares their journey, which is, at times, heartbreaking but equally inspiring. We discuss their work and mission at Family Equality, the importance of being an ally, and why people cancel themselves when they don't speak up for their beliefs. We dive into work-life balance, mindful Mondays, ruthless prioritization, how they leveraged transferable skills to crush an interview for a job they had no experience in, and so much more.

Jennifer Fisher on Building a Brand as Yourself, Trusting Your Instincts, and Not Staying in Your Lane Jul 23, 2023

Dubbed by the New York Times as the Queen of Hoops, Jennifer Fisher's accessories brand is coveted by top celebrities and the fashion set. But Jennifer Fisher's creativity doesn't fit neatly into a box. As a former wardrobe stylist for commercials, this jewelry founder's exceptional eye has graced other categories like home and interior design, and her expert kitchen skills have made her custom salts the new must-have accessory to meals across the country with @jenniferfisherkitchen. How does a jewelry designer branch out into salts? Jennifer is laser-focused on creating what she feels deep in her gut and not caring what others think.

In this episode, Jennifer shares her personal story of motherhood and serious health struggles and how her son's unexpected and miraculous birth quite literally gave birth to her jewelry collection. The baby gifts being sent to her just weren't cutting it. Her famous personalized stamped dog tag was the talk of the photo shoots she was on, and all it took was making one necklace for Uma Thurman (who wore hers on the cover of Glamour), and the rest is history. Founded 18 years ago, her brand is now omnichannel and just getting started.

Jennifer shares her mentality around brand-building as an individual, being super direct, and why you can't attract everyone. Note: That's ok with her. Her energy and style are contagious; you'll leave this one inspired to be yourself.

Jennifer is a member of the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA), a nominee for the 2019 Accessory Designer of the Year at the annual CFDA Awards, a recipient of the 2018 Town & Country Jewelry Award for Retail Innovation, the 2016 Influencer of the Year at the annual Accessories Council Excellence (ACE) Awards and was a nominee for the CFDA Swarovski Accessories award in 2014. She speaks frequently about strategic leadership, brand building, and empowering the next generation of fashion entrepreneurs, most recently at Harvard Business School, MIT Sloan, Columbia, Savannah College of Art & Design, and Northeastern University.

Jaclyn Levin Shares the Secrets to Succeeding in Broadcast Journalism and Navigating Media Today Jul 16, 2023

What does it take to get on television and succeed in media today? Jaclyn Levin knows. As an accomplished media executive, executive producer, showrunner, advisor, and consultant, she has led network news broadcasts, content development, show creation, and the building and developing of modern, multimedia, and digital-first businesses. Jaclyn earned four Emmy Awards, four Gracie Awards, an Edward R. Murrow award, two Daytime Emmy Nominations, and was named to Variety's 2020 Power of Women Impact Report.

Throughout her career in network news, Jaclyn has produced and overseen award-winning, quality content with the highest level of journalistic and production value. With a front-row seat to history in the making, she has led top-tier teams of journalists delivering millions of people their news daily. Her versatility is key to pivoting from breaking news coverage to features, entertainment, lifestyle, and short-form storytelling.

As one of the first female Executive Producers at TODAY, Jaclyn ran the business behind the multi-million dollar hour of television she oversaw, managing relationships with not only high-profile news anchors and entertainment talent but also partnering with all internal teams. Jaclyn spent 15 years at TODAY, and 26 total at NBC News, leaving in the fall of 2020.

Today she is the president of Shriver Media, working alongside her former colleague Maria Shriver, running The Sunday Paper and all aspects of Shriver's media organization in addition to consulting with other media clients. In this episode, Jaclyn takes us behind the scenes of broadcast journalism, what it takes to break through, what it means to be a discerning executive, and how she thinks about media today.

What is Success and How Do You Even Get There? Authors Aliza Licht, Laura Gassner Otting, and Christina Wallace Discuss Jul 09, 2023

Success is a tricky thing. For starters, what does success even mean? Everyone has their own definition of success, yet we are often held to society's standards. In this unique live event, three notable authors, Aliza Licht, Laura Gassner Otting, and Christina Wallace, discussed this topic from their experienced perspectives and respective new books, ON BRAND, Wonderhell, and The Portfolio Life.

Each author brings decades of experience and fascinating stories to the table:

Aliza Licht is an award-winning marketer, 2x author, host of the Leave Your Mark podcast, and personal branding expert with over twenty-five years of experience in the image-making fashion industry. Her new book,⁠ON BRAND: Shape Your Narrative. Share Your Vision. Shift Their Perception.⁠is part career book, part personal growth guide, and a comprehensive roadmap to building your personal brand so your name is dropped in rooms you're not in and that you're recommended for opportunities other people haven't even heard of yet.

In the WSJ bestseller, Wonderhell: Why Success Doesn't Feel Like It Should . . . and What to Do About It, Laura Gassner Otting leverages her 30-year-plus resume, defined by her entrepreneurial edge, to introduce the idea that success is often both a wonder and a hell. She answers the question: Why doesn't success feel like it should? What do we do with this confusing feeling, and how do we learn to live with this newfound potential that's both exciting and exhausting?

In The Portfolio Life: How to Future-Proof Your Career, Avoid Burnout, and Build a Life Bigger than Your Business Card, What Color Is Your Parachute? meets Out of Office in this inspiring, practical playbook. Christina Wallace, serial entrepreneur, podcaster, and Senior Lecturer of Entrepreneurial Management at Harvard Business School, shares her solution for anti-hustle culture and how having a "portfolio life" (rather than pouring yourself into one single full-time job) will help you future-proof your career and achieve a sustainable work-life balance while optimizing your happiness, personal growth, and bank accounts.

Natasha Miller is Relentless: From Homeless Teen to Achieving the Entrepreneur Dream Jul 02, 2023

What doesn't kill you makes you stronger could not be more true for Natasha Miller. As the multi-hyphenate CEO of Entire Productions, Inc. and Poignant Press, Natasha is also a celebrated jazz artist with seven records released on her label, Poignant Records. Her success is in spite of an upbringing so unreal and tragic that it's in the process of becoming a feature film.

As the WSJ best-selling author of Relentless, Natasha has gone from living as an Iowa homeless teen to achieving the entrepreneur dream. But unlike a typical homeless teen story, Natasha was not living in squalor. She was a classically trained violinist studying with a professor at Drake University. Her whole young life, however, was defined by living with a mother with mental illness and a father who did not do his part to protect her. At age 16, Natasha's father and, sadly, her younger brother dropped her off at a homeless shelter after her mother attempted to kill her. That was the culmination of years and years of verbal abuse. After that, she was unofficially emancipated.

In this extremely moving and inspiring LEAVE YOUR MARK episode, Natasha shares her story with unbelievable understanding and perseverance. She shows how her positive outlook and always seeing the best in people directed her path. While Natasha will always have to carry the heartache of her childhood with her, she has not let it stop her from achieving her dreams.

Today, Entire Productions is a go-to event and entertainment production company headquartered in San Francisco. With the support of her staff, Entire Productions' trusted expertise is relied upon to execute a slate of corporate special events for an enviable roster of clients, including Salesforce, Apple, Google, LinkedIn, Facebook, and the like. They have been on the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing companies in America for three years in a row. Her publishing company Poignant Press works with leaders to create impactful books that build on their authority while inspiring and motivating others.

Natasha's passion and commitment to giving back drive her invariable contributions and participation with numerous charitable organizations. Her current focus is raising awareness and funds for the Covenant House.

While Natasha maintains an active full plate, she always makes time for professional and personal enrichment. She is a proud Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses (Babson College) graduate who studied entrepreneurship at the Harvard Business School and MIT. Her other prestigious industry memberships include The Recording Academy (Grammys), ASCAP, and various event industry organizations. She resides in Oakland, CA, and is a member and the communications "expert" for The Entrepreneurs' Organization.

Jenny Hutt on How to Navigate Anxiety with Optimism and Find Humor Even in Life's Toughest Situations Jun 25, 2023

Jenny Hutt says what she's thinking, what you're thinking, and what you'll never say. As a self-proclaimed anxious optimist, she truly believes that everything will work out, but while she's going through it, she is going to stress every step of the way. That's just Jenny, and from her many years on radio and television, and now in her podcast, Just Jenny, she knows that sharing all of this will help you too.

As a lawyer, podcaster, radio and television host, author, entrepreneur, personal branding consultant, and influencer, Jenny has had a diverse background and career in entertainment, business, and law. She has also cultivated a deep passion for connecting with people.You probably know Jenny's voice from her first co-hosted show From 2005-2011, "Whatever with Alexis and Jennifer," on SiriusXM satellite radio. Jenny also co-authored the 2011 book, "WHATEVERLAND: Learning to Live Here: An Exuberant and Hilariously Irreverent Guide to Life." After that, she hosted "Just Jenny," a daily call-in show on SiriusXM radio, which later gave birth to the Just Jenny Podcast (which I had fun being on.) On her show, she tackles many subjects inviting listeners to engage in honest, humorous dialogue on everything from grieving the loss of a parent to transforming her body and spirit through healthy eating and exercise.

In this episode, Jenny shares her honest and endearing outlook on life, parenting, and managing day-to-day anxiety. She shows us how to find humor in the worst situations, even death. We learn what it was like to grow up as the daughter of Bunny and Charles Koppelman. Charles was of the most formidable industry executives of the past 50 years. Her father worked with everyone from Barbra Streisand to Prince. Her brother, Brian Koppelman (screenwriter, director, and producer), is the co-creator and showrunner of the Showtime series "Billions. And last but not least, her sister Stacey Fritz is her co-founder and co-inventor of Bunny Eyez®, a revolutionary eyewear company they founded in 2017.

Jenny's view of the world is honest and heart-warming. Her voice will brighten your day even if you think that's not possible. In her own words, "I have always wanted to make other people feel okay, and that's really it. I just want someone to see me getting through this life, warts and all messy, and let them know that they can do it too and that they're okay as they are. So many people strive for this unattainable thing they think is greatness. But it's all smoke and mirrors. Everybody has something incredibly powerful and special about themselves. But they also have deficits and areas in their lives that aren't so great. There isn't a person on the planet who has everything the way we think they do."

How to Lead Under Pressure and Battle Negative Self-Talk with Tina Greenbaum Jun 11, 2023

Tina Greenbaum knows that the ability to think clearly under pressure and manage in high-pressure situations separates great leaders from everyone else. Tina Greenbaum, M.Ed., LCSW, is the Founder and CEO of Mastery Under Pressure, a management coaching program for high-performing executives who must refine and master their interpersonal and inter-departmental skills. She incorporates sports psychology and neuroscience into her work, emphasizing mental skills and mindset.

Mastery Under Pressure gives CEOs and senior-level managers the additional professional and personal tools to excel and empower their teams and associates.

As a licensed psychotherapist and sports psychology consultant with over 40 years of experience, she has long understood that being good at your profession doesn't make you good at your job. Her ability to give high-performing executives the skills they need to work within any corporate culture has made Tina California's #1 Optimal Performance Specialist.

In this episode, Tina takes us through her process of creating a high-performance mindset, unlocking your inner athlete, and thriving in a highly competitive world. She shares her techniques for understanding clients' reasons for seeking help, exploring body sensations and patterns, and uncovering how past experiences shape present responses. She explains how mental toughness and resilience can be developed and taught and how limiting beliefs can be changed through examination and questioning, keeping a journal, recognizing and addressing unconscious biases, and aligning with personal values and truths.

Dee Poku Spalding on the Benefits and Challenges of Quiet Leadership, Why No Just Means a Better Yes is Coming, and Navigating the Noise to Fine-Tune Your Strategy Jun 04, 2023

Dee Poku Spalding creates spaces where women can be transactional and ask and receive without the pretense of five coffee chats. As the founder and CEO of The WIE Suite (Women, Inspiration, and Enterprise), a private membership club and peer learning platform for women in leadership, which I am a proud member of, Dee's mission is to redefine the way women and leaders achieve success for themselves and their companies by providing the community and tools for them to succeed at the highest levels. She is also the founder of the initiative Black Women Raise, which works to accelerate the ability of leading black female founders to raise growth capital, scale up and create pathways for the women behind them. Growing up between the UK and Ghana has influenced her humble and reserved leadership style, of which she has many lessons to share. Before founding The WIE Suite (and previously WIE Network), Dee worked in entertainment marketing at companies like Paramount and Focus Features. In this episode, we learn about Dee's meticulous planning skills, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and considering one's emotional responses to external stimuli like social media when adjusting plans. Dee created The WIE Suite because she was missing a community to lean on, to challenge the scarcity mindset, and to help empower women to rise. We also discuss the wisdom gained from rejection and the learnings from being a quiet leader. Dee is one of Marie Claire's 50 Women Changing the World, a Crain’s Notable Black Leader, won a Gold Anthem Award from the Webbys, is a CUP Catalyst Changemaker, a Harlem Fashion Week Cultural Icon and one of TRUE Africa’s 100 Top Innovators. Dee serves on the Board of Directors of The Gotham Institute of Film and the Brooklyn Bridge Conservancy as well as the British Academy of Film & Television (BAFTA)’s DEI steering committee.

Andrea Wasserman on Being an Intrapreneur and How to be a Rules Changer, Not a Rules Breaker in a Corporate Role May 28, 2023

Respectfully challenging the status quo and advocating for change in a large corporate organization can seem impossible. In this LEAVE YOUR MARK "snack segment," Andrea Wasserman, a visionary, outcome-driven executive with over 20 years of experience across consumer and B2B2C sectors, shares her secrets to intrapreneurship. Intrapreneurship is when you have an entrepreneurial mindset within a company that is self-motivated and proactive.

In this episode, we discuss how to be a change agent in a corporate role, how to bring people on board, work cross-functionally, and motivate people who don't report to you to help execute a strategy. Andrea shares tips on being a project leader with vision, making each team feel essential to the outcome, and customizing the communication approach based on each audience's specific needs and preferences. We also discuss how mid-level employees can manage up by understanding their manager's goals better and ways they can be supportive.

Dr. Marcus Collins on How to Define and Use Culture Effectively in Marketing and Why Brands Should Stop Putting People in Boxes May 21, 2023

Dr. Marcus Collins is an award-winning marketer and cultural translator with one foot in the world of practice—serving as the Chief Strategy Officer at Wieden+Kennedy New York—and one foot in the world of academia—as a marketing professor at the Ross School of Business, University of Michigan. His book For The Culture: The Power Behind What We Buy, What We Do, and Who We Want to Be examines the influence of culture on consumption and unpacks how everyone, from marketers to activists, can leverage culture to get people to take action.

Marcus's understanding of brand strategy and consumer behavior has helped him bridge the academic-practitioner gap for blue-chip brands and startups. He is a recipient of Advertising Age's 40 Under 40 award and Crain's Business' 40 Under 40 award and an inductee into the American Advertising Federation's Advertising Hall of Achievement. Most recently, he was recognized by Thinkers50 and Deloitte among their class of 2023 Radar List of 30 thinkers with the ideas most likely to shape the future.

Before joining Wieden+Kennedy, he served as the Chief Consumer Connections Officer at Doner Advertising and led Social Engagement at Steve Stoute's advertising agency, Translation. Before his advertising tenure, Marcus began his career in music and tech with a startup he co-founded before working on iTunes + Nike sport music initiatives at Apple and running digital strategy for Beyoncé.

In this episode, we dive deep into marketing and where brands go wrong. We discuss why balancing short-term activation with long-term brand growth is essential and the danger of doing things to be seen rather than heard. Marcus shares his expertise on culture, why we need a language to define it, and the importance of perspective in shaping your worldview.

Sam Safer Valentine on How to Build Your Database and Market to Anyone May 18, 2023

Welcome to the LEAVE YOUR MARK snack segment on direct-to-consumer marketing for creative entrepreneurs and small business owners. Sam Safer Valentine is the co-founder and COO of Norby, an intelligent marketing and communications platform for creative entrepreneurs that helps them grow by amplifying their work through a lightweight website, collecting leads, hosting events, sending text and email campaigns, and analyzing everything.

This episode will specifically focus on how to build a database from scratch and all the tools Norby has to offer- all of which I use for my marketing and especially my launch campaign for my new book, ON BRAND.

PLUS THIS EXCITING NEWS! LEAVE YOUR MARK x Norby are thrilled to announce the Brand Builder Grant, an unrestricted grant of $2,500 to a brand builder or small business owner looking for funding to achieve their marketing and business goals.

From the beginning, Norby's mission has been to lift up creative entrepreneurs. It started as a community; they know what it's like to build something from the ground up and how precious your resources are when you're just starting.

Our goal with this Grant, just as with Norby, is to lower the barrier to entry to marketing and growing your brand and business. To give small business owners, authors, podcasters, consultants, personal brand builders a place to showcase their work, create meaningful relationships with their audience, and grow their business.

Apply by June 2, 2023 for the LEAVE YOUR MARK x Norby Brand Builder Grant by texting BRAND to +1 888- 291-4241 or at leaveyourmark.norby.live.

Theresa Ebagua from Corporate America to Celebrity Footwear Designer & How to Succeed as an Outsider May 14, 2023

Theresa Ebagua pursued her dream of becoming a luxury shoe designer after studying computer science, getting her MBA, and working in corporate America for ten years. As a Nigerian-born, LA and London-based luxury footwear designer, she founded Chelsea Paris, a luxury footwear brand, in 2012 inspired by her African heritage and named after her two daughters. Her mother's passing made her realize that life is short and there is no better time than the present to pursue her passion. Many celebrities, including Zendaya, Beyonce, Lupita, and Selena, have worn Chelsea Paris. Theresa acknowledges that the footwear industry is tough, but her initial ignorance of its difficulties helped her persevere and realize this dream. The ethos of her brand is craftsmanship, sustainability, and giving back. Chelsea Paris shoes are designed in London and expertly handcrafted in small artisan factories in Italy. In this episode, we discuss Theresa's determination to make it in an industry dominated by people who didn't look like her. As an outsider in a white male-dominated industry, Theresa faced challenges. She recalls people assuming she was the salesperson at trunk shows and even some advisors suggesting that she had a new "face" of the brand represented by a white man. Theresa shares her journey of making it, her early supporters like Barneys, who took a chance on her, the importance of community and paying it forward, the role of identity in fashion, and the challenges of managing a successful business. Lastly, Theresa shares her approach to self-care and the importance of giving herself that one hour.

Christina Wallace on How Focusing on One Career Path Doesn't Work Anymore and Why You Need a Portfolio Life May 07, 2023

According to serial entrepreneur, author, and Harvard Business School Senior Lecturer, Christina Wallace, pouring yourself into a single full-time job is the riskiest move you can make. Focusing on one career path doesn't work anymore for reasons ranging from recessions to student loan debt, the gig economy, climate disasters, and a global pandemic (to name a few). We need a dramatically different relationship with work that allows us to define ourselves beyond our paid labor.

In her new book, The Portfolio Life: How to Future Proof Your Career, Avoid Burnout and Build a Life Bigger than Your Business Card, self-described "human Venn diagram," Christina Wallace adapts tried-and-true practices from the business sector to help you eschew the cult of ambition and experience the freedom of building the flexible, fulfilling, and sustainable life you want. Drawing on research, case studies, and her own experience, she walks you step-by-step through designing a strategy for the long haul. Because you deserve rest, relationships, and a rewarding career—not someday, but today. After all, you only live once.

Wallace talks about building a life like a portfolio rather than a linear career as disruptions become more frequent and diversification and flexibility become more valuable. The Portfolio Life is an anti-hustle, pro-rest approach to work-life balance, built on three tenets:

You are more than any one role or opportunity.
Diversification will help you navigate change and mitigate uncertainty.
When (not if) your needs change, you can and should rebalance.

In this episode, we discuss the idea of a portfolio career and how having multiple areas of expertise can be beneficial. Christina emphasizes the importance of recognizing the value of diverse experiences and networks and how a Venn diagram can identify areas of opportunity and help you connect the dots between many areas of expertise. Christina shares her startup failure story and how it's now a case study at Harvard. Though crushed and paralyzed, she got back on her feet by committing to 70 coffees in 30 days. You'll learn the three crucial questions she asked her network that brought her back in touch with her self-worth and clarified her next steps.

Jane Green on the Importance of Not Taking Criticism From Anybody You Wouldn't Take Advice From and Why Writers Should Write What They Want to Write, Not What They Think Will Sell Apr 30, 2023

Jane Green has written twenty-one novels including 18 New York Times bestsellers published in over 25 languages with over 10 million books in print worldwide. She is now giving busy women audio dramas as the new head of Emerald Audio, a new podcast network producing shows from some of the best-loved writers in the world. As if that wasn't enough, she's also navigating her Dear Jane column in the Daily Mail. How does Jane Green manage to do it all? The answer lies in how Jane describes herself, an energizer bunny with only two moods: on and off. In this episode, Jane takes us behind the scenes of her creative writing process, how she manages her day, her career, and her relationships. We talk about burning bridges, anxiety and fear, and how to let go of the negativity. We discuss the power of discipline in writing and how a single photograph inspired Jane to write her newest novel, Sister Stardust. Her advice for aspiring novelists is to write what you want, not what you think will sell. Don't be put off by rejection. And don't hand your book out for everyone to read and seek validation. Jane says, "Whenever we think we'll write something capturing the zeitgeist because we'll be a bestseller. The moment is gone, and you're not writing from your heart."

Maricella Herrera Avila on Knowing What You're Good at, Finding Your Allies, and Recognizing That Hard Work Isn't Enough to Be Successful Apr 23, 2023

"Are you planning to get married in the next two years?" was the question that a hiring manager asked Maricella Herrera on a job interview in finance in 2012. That moment would change her professional journey forever, rerouting her from her finance path to empowering a women+ community. Today, as CEO of the Ellevate Network, with over 200,000 women+ members globally, she is helping to create a culture of equity and inclusion in business.

As someone who has been with her company for over ten years and was promoted from within to CEO, Maricella is exploring the challenges and exciting opportunities to step up from her previous organizational role as COO to one of strategy and vision.

In this episode, we discuss Maricella's journey from war-torn El Salvador and her upbringing of resilience. We discuss how her side hustle of helping Janet Hanson, founder of the former 85 Broads, became Ellevate and how Maricella joined her efforts once she withdrew her application. Maricella recalls that was the tipping point, not just a decision based on one interview. She wanted to stay in New York, and she wanted to change the world.

As an outspoken Latina who readily shares her voice, Maricella expresses the importance of finding your allies and how you will be louder if you have people around you who can support you, even if you can't be loud yourself. We compare the difference between being a "generalist" versus niching down in your skills and how to think bigger, especially when you've been promoted within the same company. Maricella dispels the myth that only hard work gets you to the next level and that talking about your accomplishments and ensuring people know your value is the answer to getting ahead.

Aliza Licht on Why a Strong Personal Brand is Career Insurance Apr 16, 2023

In this episode, Aliza Licht, award-winning marketer, author, and host of the Leave Your Mark podcast, discusses her new book, ⁠ON BRAND: Shape Your Narrative. Share Your Vision. Shift Their Perception ⁠and how to level up your career by working on your personal brand. Aliza is interviewed by culture and trend journalist, award-winning, four-time published author, and New York Times contributor Alix Strauss; they discuss the behind-the-scenes of ON BRAND and dive deep into what the reader can expect to get out of it.

In a world where the lines between personal and professional are blurred, and we communicate nonstop in both obvious and subtle ways, getting your message right and learning how to market yourself is paramount to success and can determine which opportunities are presented to you or handed to someone else. How you show up in person, over email, and on social media communicates your personal brand. That brand deserves thoughtful cultivation and crafting as you shape your narrative, build your network, grow your confidence, and plot your future.

Aliza Licht, a former fashion executive who successfully turned her communications expertise into a multimedia brand and consultancy, shares both personal and professional advice from her lived experiences and from expert contributors to help you discover what your brand is: who you already are, who you want to be, and how to ensure others see you that way.

ON BRAND is ideal for anyone seeking personal development to help them level up, pivot professionally, or support through a transition. It's for the new graduate seeking their first job, the middle manager looking to level up, the executive who wants to become more notable, the entrepreneur building from scratch, the person who wants to pivot to a new career, the social media influencer who is their own brand—it's for anyone who wants to affect the way people perceive them and feel proud when they hear the words "that's so on brand for you."

Laura Gassner Otting on Why Success Doesn't Feel Like It Should and What to Do About It Apr 02, 2023

Laura Gassner Otting's superpower is seeing your greatness and reflecting it back on you so that you can get "unstuck" and achieve extraordinary results. In her book, Wonderhell, Laura explores "why success doesn't feel like it should and what to do about it." Wonderhell offers a roadmap to creating the mindset that lets you move forward in life, even when your success tells you to stop right there. Did you know fear and excitement manifest in our bodies in exactly the same way? The reason that success feels stressful is because we feel the burden of what else we can achieve. Wonderhell is the sign that you are made for more. The book draws from Laura's experiences and interviews with successful entrepreneurs, activists, and artists who have faced similar challenges and come out on the other side. One of Laura's suggestions is that instead of pursuing endless growth, people should determine what they are maximizing for, whether it is profits, impact on the world, or personal freedom and flexibility.

Laura frequently contributes to Good Morning America, the TODAY Show, Harvard Business Review, and Oprah Daily. Her entrepreneurial edge defines Laura's 30-year resume. She served as a Presidential Appointee in Bill Clinton's White House, helping shape AmeriCorps; left a leadership role at a respected national search firm to expand a tech start-up; and founded, ran, and sold her own global search firm. Her first book, Limitless, was a national bestseller.

In this episode, we discuss the definition of success and why it isn't an endpoint but a waypoint. Why working hard doesn't end when you succeed; every time you succeed, it just gets harder. We dive into the dangers of comparison culture but the importance of surrounding yourself with people who won't let you settle for mediocrity. And the reason you feel like an impostor is because you are somewhere you never thought you'd be.

Lydia Fenet on How to Claim Your Confidence and Stop Asking For Permission to Live the Life You Want Mar 26, 2023

Lydia Fenet knows what it feels like to own a room. In her two-decades-long career as the leading charity auctioneer in the world, Lydia has changed the fundraising game—single-handedly raising over a billion dollars for over 800 organizations globally. At night she graces the stage alongside celebrities including Bruce Springsteen, Hugh Jackman, Matt Damon, and Jerry Seinfeld while raising money for the most notable charities in the world. As a keynote speaker, she travels internationally, speaking to groups about unlocking their sales potential and empowering their teams in the workplace.

In her new book, CLAIM YOUR CONFIDENCE: Unlock Your Superpower and Create the Life You Want, global thought leader, Christie’s Ambassador, and author of The Most Powerful Woman in the Room Is You, Lydia Fenet is back on LEAVE YOUR MARK to share hard-won wisdom on how to look within, overcome fear, and claim your strongest self.

Navigating a two-decade career at the world’s leading auction house while raising three children, Lydia had her own journey of learning self-assurance. Through relatable stories of big and small challenges, Lydia demonstrates that confidence isn’t something we are born with; instead, it is something that we learn by pushing ourselves out of our comfort zone and facing fears head-on.

In this episode, we discuss why you should ask for forgiveness, not permission, how to create a "Teflon Shield," slam your imposter syndrome, get comfortable being uncomfortable, persist even when you want to give up, and untether yourself from what other people think about you, and more.

Melissa Nightingale Wants to Know How F*cked Up Your Management Is So She Can Make You a Better Boss Mar 19, 2023

Melissa Nightingale is an internationally recognized expert on management and the modern workplace. She's the co-founder and partner at Raw Signal Group and has helped thousands of bosses worldwide show up with more confidence and competence in how they lead. Previously, she spent 20 years working in tech and held executive roles that spanned marketing, customer success, community, and growth. Melissa is also the author of two books: Unmanageable: Leadership Lessons from an Impossible Year and How F*cked Up Is Your Management? An Uncomfortable Conversation About Modern Leadership. When employees aren't happy at work, it's usually because of their boss, but many bosses lack the skills to manage a team. And fun fact, it's likely that if your boss is not happy with you, the odds are their boss is equally unhappy with them. In this episode, we dive deeeeeeep into management and the big mistakes bosses make, starting with identifying the actual job of being a manager. Spoiler alert: it's not necessarily what you think. We analyze the difference between being internally promoted as a manager versus coming from an external role, what should happen within the first 90 days, and how the dynamic changes when you suddenly oversee colleagues that used to be peers. We discuss how introverts and extroverts differ in management and how to make sure that people know your worth no matter how you identify. Melissa advises how to build trust with a new team, particularly in a remote setting, delegate appropriately, and establish working guardrails for your direct reports and work processes. This whole episode is a master's degree in management, no matter what you do or who you do it for.

Noora Raj Brown on Learning How to Trust Your Gut, Being an Entrepreneurial CMO, and Why You Can't Operate From a Place of Fear Mar 12, 2023

Noora Raj Brown knows what it feels like to be uncomfortable, but she has never let it stop her. Whether it's been learning on the job or pushing unconventional conversations into the mainstream, Noora is on the front lines of what it means to be an entrepreneurial marketer. As Executive Vice President of Brand at goop, Noora has been instrumental in working with Gwyneth Paltrow to transform goop from a newsletter and multi-brand site into a full-fledged brand (and not a celebrity brand) since 2016. As a member of the executive team, Noora oversees brand and integrated marketing, corporate positioning, talent outreach, television production, social media, influencer marketing, and press strategy for the goop brand and all initiatives. She also serves as chief spokesperson for the company and CEO. Prior to goop, Noora worked in various creative industries, most recently at Time Inc, where she led communications for their fashion and style brands, including InStyle, People StyleWatch, XoJane, and Wallpaper*. She is also a founding board member of political engagement organizations I am a Voter and Commit2Change.

In this episode, we dive into what makes a strong brand, and the mental filter Noora employs to decipher what's on brand for goop. We talk about the importance of hiring experts and giving them the autonomy to do their best work, why you should be learning all the things you don't find interesting, what she looks for in a hire, and why if you want to succeed, you need to be useful. We also discuss what it's like to work for one of the most famous women in the world and how feeling lost in your career is natural but can also bring the gift of time and self-reflection.

Reshma Saujani on Penetrating Spaces by Creating Your Own, The Importance of Asking Yourself What You Want as a Working Parent, and Why We Need to Start Depersonalizing Failure Mar 05, 2023

Reshma Saujani is not satisfied. As a leading activist and the founder of Girls Who Code and MOMS F1RST, Reshma is not waiting around for change to happen. She's making it happen.

She has spent over a decade building movements to fight for women's and girls' economic empowerment. Girls Who Code has taught over 500,000 girls through direct in-person computer science education programming, working to close the gender gap in the tech sector. Her newest non-profit, Moms First, advocates for policies to support moms impacted by the pandemic. Moms First believes America doesn't work if we don't work for moms.

Reshma is also the bestselling author of Pay Up: The Future of Women and Work (and Why It's Different Than You Think) and Brave Not Perfect: Fear Less, Fail More, Live Bolder. Her influential TED Talk: "Teach girls Bravery, not perfection," has more than 6.2 million views globally.

Beginning her career as an attorney and a Democratic organizer, Reshma surged onto the political scene as the first Indian American woman to run for US Congress. Her approach to movement building has been recognized broadly, and she's been covered in Fortune World's Greatest Leaders, Fortune's 40 under 40, WSJ magazine Innovator of the Year, Forbes Most Powerful Women Changing the World, and Fast Company, 100 Most Creative People.

In this episode, Reshma is incredibly transparent about her decisions, how she thinks about her priorities, and her passion for fighting injustice, particularly for women and girls. We discuss her career pivots and how she used to chase shiny objects in search of credibility before realizing that the only thing she wants now is to pass policies and see cultural change. We discuss the challenges mothers face in the workplace and the economic benefits of retaining women. Reshma would like nothing more than for corporate leaders to rip up their ERG playbooks and give working moms what they need– support and flexibility.

Harper Spero on the Impact and Advocacy of Invisible Illness in the Workplace and Why You Need to Meet People Where They Are Feb 26, 2023

If you had to reflect on your life, what would be your defining moment? For Harper Spero, it was walking in NYC one day and, out of the blue, being unable to breathe. Harper has a rare Immunodeficiency called hyper IGE syndrome (there are only 300 people diagnosed in the world) and, after a life-altering surgery, decided to change the entire trajectory of her career.

"The doctor said, 'You have a cyst the size of a golf ball in your right lung, and you need surgery immediately to remove it.' Everything about my life is before that call and after that call. It was such a defining moment."

After the surgery, Harper realized that she needed to prioritize her health and mental well-being, which led her to leave her job in the beauty industry and explore other career options. She eventually found a job with a boss who prioritized personal development and wellness, which gave her the accommodations she needed to take care of herself. It was that role and a chance meeting that would lead to her discovering her love of coaching.

After completing her certification in 2014 to become a professional coach, today Harper supports solopreneurs and small business owners in brainstorming, launching, and building their businesses. She is often referred to as the external COO/CMO of her client's businesses.

In 2018, after years of not finding content related to her rare condition that resonated with her, Harper launched Made Visible, a podcast that amplifies the stories of people living with or affected by invisible illness. In 2020, she began facilitating writing classes for the Made Visible community to give them a safe place to share, feel more seen and heard, and learn from established authors. She is working with companies to create content, community, and inclusivity amongst employees living with invisible illnesses to have and experience support from their employers.

In this episode, Harper and I discuss what it means to have health get in the way of a career and why it's imperative to prioritize and advocate for yourself in the workplace. We also dive into Harper's superior skills in making authentic connections, writing a compelling pitch, how she never fails to meet a deadline or a follow-up, and so much more.

Felita Harris on Turning a No Into a Win/Win, Why It’s OK to Make a Different Choice, and How Not to Get Paralyzed in the Now Feb 19, 2023

What happens when you don't take a no for an answer and look at it with a win-win mindset? Answer: Great partnerships. Felita Harris is a forward-thinking executive with extensive experience driving sustainable revenue growth, formulating business strategies, and cultivating collaborative partnerships.

During her career, Felita has served in senior positions, including those of Chief Strategy and Revenue Officer at Harlem's Fashion Row (HFR)/ICON360, Executive Vice President of Alexander Wang, and Senior Vice President of Donna Karan Collection (LVMH), where we worked together side by side for over a decade. She has a track record of increasing revenue, identifying innovative business opportunities, and cultivating partnerships with brands such as LVMH, Tapestry Group, Amazon, Nordstrom, and Pinterest.

In this episode, Felita discusses her journey in fashion and her experience as a Black woman who was supported early on for her talent and potential. Felita credits the leaders who provided her with mentorship, networking opportunities, and a sense of inclusion. From this experience, she believes that if black and brown individuals are given the same tools and opportunities, they too can feel and experience the same sense of belonging and success she has felt throughout her career.

In addition, we learn how Felita expertly taps her network and connects with one person to get to the next and next to get the introductions needed to make her projects happen. Felita also shares the difficult decisions she has made and why it's imperative NOT to get paralyzed in the now and to make any decision to see another tomorrow.

Felita is passionate about professional development and building a pipeline for marginalized and underrepresented businesses in a constantly evolving industry. In 2020, she earned a certificate from Cornell University in Diversity and Inclusion. Felita is a founding member of RAISEfashion, a nonprofit network of fashion industry leaders that provide pro-bono consultation to Black-owned businesses and individuals. Additionally, she is a thought leader for Open to All®, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the principle that everyone should be welcomed regardless of race, ethnicity, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, immigration status, religion, or disability.

She advises brands in wholesale strategy, pipeline programs, merchandising, and diversity & inclusion. Among her business achievement awards are Fashion Group International Hilldun Business Innovation, Luxury Daily Women to Watch, Accessories Council Design Excellence Awards for Tech Innovation, BRAG, and Girl Scouts of Greater New York Women of Distinction.

Bee Shapiro on Embracing Career Risk, Leveraging Your Outsider Perspective, and Why Reinvention Is Always Possible Feb 12, 2023

How many times can you reinvent yourself? The answer lies in how many career risks you are willing to take. For Bee Shapiro, it's been many. After starting a career at a major law firm, Bee leveraged her strong skills and love of writing and pitched herself cold to the New York Times, where she landed a job covering fashion. When the Time's beauty columnist left, she raised her hand to take on beauty. It turned out to be one of the best things to happen in her career.

When Bee became pregnant, she started cleaning up her beauty routine and found there were no sophisticated, clean options for fragrance. This was 2013 and the beginning of clean beauty as we know it today. Skincare and makeup had already made exciting strides, but fragrance was still stuck in another era where ingredients were almost intentionally murky. There was a lot to clear up, but Bee saw a lot of possibilities.

Ellis Brooklyn officially debuted in June 2015, named after her daughter, Ellis. Ellis Brooklyn is carried at Sephora, Ulta, Credo, Revolve, and many more retailers. At the beginning of Bee's beauty brand journey, she faced challenges being an Asian woman in an industry dominated by Caucasian French males. But being an outsider proved to be an asset and gave her a unique perspective and a distinct point of view in the beauty industry.

"I think in order to find what you love to do as your career. It's very similar to finding the love of your life. If you're going to fall in love with somebody or find a partner, you have to take a risk, and that's really putting yourself out there for whatever it is. It's terrifying. A lot of people are not willing to take that risk."

In this episode, Bee takes us on her journey and shares all the times she questioned herself on what she was doing. We talk about how she navigated her side hustle while maintaining her full-time job and how she organizes her time juggling her writing, company, and being a mom of two young daughters. Through her story, we learn how reinvention is always possible, but the older you get, the more commitment you have to put into it.

Candace Nelson on Why It's Not Your Idea That Matters But How You Bring It to Life, the Importance of Constant Innovation, and the Reason Personal Branding Matters More Than Ever Jan 31, 2023

Candace Nelson, a serial entrepreneur, founder of Sprinkles Cupcakes, and author of Sweet Success, got laid off during the dot-com bubble, leading her to reevaluate her career path. Growing up baking, Candace decided to fill her unemployed free time by attending pastry school. This experience unlocked her passion, making her realize that she needed to pursue a career that brought fulfillment and joy. She took a considerable risk and poured her life savings into creating the world's first cupcake bakery. As the original trailblazer transforming the cupcake from a commodity to a luxury experience, Candace was a pioneer. She also came up with the idea of the cupcake ATM, which allows customers to purchase cupcakes 24/7, a solution to her problem of not being able to get her hands on a cupcake late at night while having a pregnancy craving. But as you'll learn from this episode and her new book, you can't just rely on your one big idea. Innovation doesn't sleep, and competitors are just one step behind you. Candace has now expanded into pizza with a brand called Pizzana. Her book, Sweet Success, is a comprehensive guide to entrepreneurship, not a sugarcoated version--she shares the mishaps, mistakes, and hard-earned lessons she learned. In this episode, Candace speaks about the importance of perseverance and resilience and reminds listeners and aspiring entrepreneurs that before a 'yes,' there will be many more 'no's.' She also shares her approach to decision-making, which includes using her gut, heart, and mind, and emphasizes the importance of being intentional in everything. As we face an economic downturn, many people worldwide are forced to reevaluate their careers and what direction they want to go in life. Candace's story and Sweet Success are the perfect inspiration and toolkit for anyone who wants to build a brand.

Catherine Fisher Shares Linkedin’s Insider Intel on Job Hunting, Networking Hacks, and Why You Need to Cushion Your Career to Be Ready for Anything Jan 25, 2023

Is career cushioning a new Olympic sport? It may as well be. In this special LEAVE YOUR MARK snack segment, I sit down with Catherine Fisher, Vice President of Integrated Data and Consumer Communications for LinkedIn. Because who's better than Catherine to share the information we need right now to ensure we navigate our careers strategically?

Catherine is an established marketing and communications leader and has worked for some of the most notable consumer brands, including Netflix and eBay, with more than 20 years of experience. Currently, she leads the consumer communications strategy for LinkedIn and serves as the company spokeswoman educating and inspiring people on how to think about and grow their careers. You can see her frequently on shows such as TODAY, Good Morning America, and CBS Mornings sharing insights on managing your career. Catherine's newsletter, Career Companion, is published monthly on LinkedIn.

In this episode, we cover the following:

The best way (and hacks!) to search for a job on LinkedIn.
What career cushioning means, and why you need to do it.
Why despite increasing economic uncertainty, LinkedIn's new survey has found that most professionals feel confident in their career prospects.
Should employees be bold right now and ask for raises?
The most important soft skills employers are looking for now.
The most in-demand skills employers are seeking out.
Why it's about playing the long game of building a career, not solely focusing on your current job.
Advice for people on how to network on Linkedin and get mentorship.
What company culture means today.
The best way to fortify your network.
The top three most coveted roles right now.
The best way to leave your mark on LinkedIn!

And more!

Peter Shankman on the Secret to Getting Media Attention, How to Become a Keynote Speaker, and Why You Should Be Brilliant at the Basics Jan 22, 2023

Ever wonder how someone builds up enough credibility to become quoted in the media or a regularly booked public speaker? Peter Shankman is a five-time bestselling author, entrepreneur, and corporate speaker. It's been 24 years since he had a typical job after he lasted one week at a magazine. As someone with ADHD, Peter learned later in life the driver behind his "faster than normal" brain and why he couldn't focus at work in the way an office job requires. Today, he travels the world as a speaker educating audiences on two of his favorite topics: how to win at customer service and why Neurodivergent employees need to be celebrated and accommodated. His book, Faster Than Normal is a New York Times bestseller.

In this episode, Peter shares what it meant for him to pivot as a speaker during the pandemic and why having so much free time as someone with ADHD was a considerable challenge. He shares what it takes to get the media's attention with insider tips he knows better than anyone as the founder of HARO (Help a Reporter Out), a company he started that helps journalists find sources on deadline. Cision ultimately acquired it.

Peter's depth of experience in marketing, social media, and PR has made him an expert on what it takes to make people happy, and spoiler alert: a big bag of M&Ms can sometimes do the trick. We dive into the importance of learning about people and how small personalization touches can impact someone's experience with you or your brand, leave a lasting impression, and build loyalty.

Emily Palmer on Her Endless Pursuit of the Story: From Being Anna Delvey's Favorite Journalist to High-Profile Murderers and Drug Lords Jan 15, 2023

Emily Palmer is an investigative reporter whose work has taken her from a jail cell at Rikers Island to small mountain pueblos in Durango, México. She has traveled across the country inspecting child welfare laws, uncovered environmental damage in the U.S. Virgin Islands, and embedded with the Sinaloa Cartel to tell the story of the drug war from across the border.

Emily has daily covered high-profile trials from New York, including drug lord Joaquín Guzmán "El Chapo" Loera and R&B artist R. Kelly. She has also gained exclusive access to inmates, including El Chapo's wife, Emma Coronel Aispuro.

She had just finished covering El Chapo's trial when her editor asked if she was interested in covering the trial of Upper East Side con artist Anna "Delvey" Sorokin. Her answer: "Did anybody die?" Her editor said no, and Emily said, "I'm in." Going from her usual coverage of murder and heavy drugs to pursuing the trial of Anna Delvey seemed boring. That is until she met her.

In this episode, Emily shares what it takes to do her job. Spoiler alert: A LOT, and it's often dangerous. We dive deep into the challenges of covering high-profile cases, sacrificing her personal life for the endless pursuit of the story, and how she and Anna Delvey have become very "close, close, close" source and reporter friends, and regularly texting while Anna continues to be on house arrest.

Aliza Licht Reads an Excerpt of Her New Book, ON BRAND Jan 08, 2023

This week’s episode is a little bedtime story from me to you. I decided to record the introduction of my book, ON BRAND: Shape your narrative. Share your vision. Shift their perception. as a podcast episode narrated by me! Get ready for some self-reflection! In less than 20 minutes, I guarantee that you will start to think about yourself and your career in a totally new way.

In ON BRAND, I share my strategies for developing your own personal brand to ensure your name gets dropped in rooms you’re not in, and you are put in a position to succeed because people know the value you add. A well-defined personal brand can secure your professional longevity because what you do today may not be what you do tomorrow. I’ve spent over two decades immersed in the business of shaping perception. In my early years at high-fashion magazines, I observed how influence and taste are cultivated. When I moved to the corporate PR side, I learned what it takes to build a brand with cultural impact and longevity. I’ve worked with some of the most prestigious luxury brands and have been on some of the best marketing and communications teams in the fashion industry.

But I never imagined that the same tactics and marketing principles I had applied to my corporate work for years would later be pivotal in rebranding myself. In doing so, I evolved from a corporate employee to someone with a multimedia personal brand that includes two books, a podcast, speaking engagements, newsletters, a private online community, and a creative brand marketing and digital strategy consultancy. It didn’t happen overnight; it took hard work, consistency, and passion. The good news: I’m about to share all my insider secrets with you in ON BRAND. I hope you enjoy listening to this introduction!

Kimberly Lee Minor on Being Bold Enough to Challenge and Smart Enough to Know that the Minute You Make it Emotional is the Minute You Have Lost Dec 18, 2022

In the early years of her career, Kimberly Lee Minor rose through the ranks quickly. But at the exact moment that her star was on the rise, she had to make a personal choice to leave her role and take care of her family. Today, Kimberly is an accomplished executive with an impeccable record of building brands and developing strategies to keep business competitive and nimble. As an executive member of leading domestic and international retailers and brand organizations, Kimberly is currently the President and Chief Commercial Officer at Bandier, where she oversees the direction of design, multi-channel merchandising, marketing, production, sourcing, and human resources.

As a Black woman who was often the only or the first, Kimberly has made it her mission to move people of color, especially women, forward in the workplace. She also serves as the CEO of Bumbershoot, a boutique consulting firm that provides C-suite leadership, cultural and market insights for inclusive, equitable, and diverse representation across brand, content, product, and customer experience. She also serves as the founder and president of WOCRA (Women of Color Retail Alliance), supporting the careers of women of color in the retail industry through hard and soft skills training, leadership development, and networking opportunities. Kimberly sits on the board of BlueConic and Together Digital. WWD included Kimberly on their 50 Women in Power 2022 list.

This episode is full of incredible and truthful advice. Kimberly says it like it is, and here are some of the nuggets of wisdom she shares and more!

What happens when you need to put your rising star on the shelf.
Why being a personality hire has its benefits.
How to advocate for what you want and show up like an owner.
Why you should decline an offer that’s not getting you to NEXT.
How to be a part of things before you are a part of things to prove to management that, yes, you do deserve that promotion.
The reason women of color need to take roles that have financial responsibility.
How to build the strength of your agency.
The importance of being strategic about your next career move and ensuring it fits within the narrative you are trying to tell.
Know what you’re good at and why it's important to be told what you're not good at.
One reason people who say that are willing to help ghost you.

Rachel Johnson on Mastering Two Careers at Once, the Biggest Mistakes Founders Make, and How to Combat Sitting at Your Computer With Health Dec 11, 2022

Some people can't master one job, but if you're Rachel Johnson, you own your own 19-person law firm and double as a health and wellness founder. While working the high-stress life of being a lawyer for venture-backed high-growth startups, Rachel found herself never leaving her desk. Couple that with being a working mom, and it was time to make some profound health changes. In addition to being the co-founder of J&O Law, Rachel is the founder of @ahmi.health. She is on a mission to change dieting by sticking to a simple mantra of Greens. Water. Move. Repeat, and the focus is on creating small, sustainable habits you can build on to accomplish big changes in your life. What began as an accountability group would soon become a passion project for Rachel. After the birth of Rachel's second child, Rachel wanted to get healthy for good but couldn't find a company to connect and understand her needs, so she created one. That was how Ah.mi (a play on the French word for friend) was started in January 2019 when a few of Rachel's friends committed in a group text to eat healthier through simple meals and move their bodies regularly. After three months of committing together, *big* changes started to happen — Rachel and her friends felt happier and fitter than ever. The best thing was they didn't want it to end. What began as a group text has grown into an innovative health and wellness company on a mission to make healthy living *realistic* and doable for all. ah. mi's Le Health Club is a virtual health club membership that emphasizes community support and gives you the tools and resources to get healthy for good. In this episode, Rachel shares some valuable advice to those considering starting their own companies, inexpensive options if you plan to start your own business, and why you should pay attention to the things that really make you happy.

Everything You Need to Know About Proactively Navigating Layoffs, Contracts, and Workplace Discrimination and Harassment With Employment Lawyer, Peter Rahbar Dec 04, 2022

Let’s face it: Work can be complicated. Layoffs are widespread, and workplace issues like harassment and discrimination can be daunting. But then there are also less scandalous topics like non-compete agreements and new offer contracts. This week on LEAVE YOUR MARK, I talk with Peter Rahbar, my friend and personal attorney, and we unpack all of this.

Peter is the founder of The Rahbar Group and has represented individuals and major companies in nearly every aspect of employment law and other workplace issues. After almost twenty years of representing major international corporate clients in high-profile matters, including over a decade as the chief employment attorney for Hearst, Peter has established a boutique employment practice representing individuals, including C-Suite executives, media personalities, and other professionals working in finance, media, sports, real estate, fashion, and tech. Peter has a unique perspective on workplace dynamics and trends due to the broad scope of his practice. He has real-time insight into hiring trends through his extensive experience in the negotiation and drafting of employment agreements, talent agreements, and separation agreements, and his specialty of representing individuals in negotiating non-competition agreements. Peter is also a tireless advocate for equal treatment in the workplace – representing and advising individuals in the negotiation, investigation, litigation, and mediation of employment disputes, including employment discrimination and harassment claims. Peter is based in New York City. He received his undergraduate degree from Duke University and his law degree from Georgetown University Law Center.

Pete and I dive into every major employment law issue in this episode and cover their do’s and don’ts. This is the episode you will save and play on repeat. The big topics we cover are layoffs, non-compete agreements, pay transparency laws, how to deal with harassment in the workplace, and so much more.

*This episode will provide commentary and tactical career advice from a workplace expert. It is not intended to provide legal advice or counsel.

Erica Domesek on Why It’s Okay to Mourn the Life You Lost, Close the Chapter on the Old You, and Move Forward in a New Direction Nov 27, 2022

Erica Domesek is the Queen of DIY and the founder of the innovative DIY lifestyle brand P.S.– I Made This, which launched in 2009. Since then, Erica’s passion for entertaining and hand-making beautiful objects in ways that make everyday life more colorful and fun has become her calling card. She is a distinguished expert in the areas of design and style, as well as a leader in brand marketing for 15 years. Her personal mission is to inspire and encourage people everywhere to embrace the concept of crafting the life they want.

Her new book, P.S.- We Made This: Super Fun Crafts That Grow Smarter + Happier Kids!, encourages parents (and kids!) to step away from the screens and help their littles learn essential sensory, motor, developmental, and life skills. From self-expression and imaginative play to problem-solving, these projects keep kids entertained, curious, and growing. Each chapter has simple out-of-the-box crafts, recipes, and ideas to engage kids of all ages.

Erica’s success is built not only on her artistic gifts but also on her belief that her network is her net worth. More than that, Erica is an expert on marketing brands and herself. Her pitches are successful because they come from an authentic place where what she asks for will ultimately benefit everyone. Erica has appeared on The Today Show, Rachael Ray, The Martha Stewart Show, E! News, among many others. She was a judge on TLC’s Craft Wars, and her work has been featured in Glamour, InStyle, Teen Vogue, Elle, Vogue, and The Wall Street Journal.

Erica’s personal brand is happiness, vibrant colors, and creativity, but what happens when you suddenly realize that your world isn’t? In this episode, Erica takes us along her journey from using her talents to bring joy to others to someone who bravely recognized when it was time to say goodbye to her old self and move forward personally and professionally.

Lauren Maillian on How to Be a Respectful Disruptor, Redefine Your Path to Success, and Own Any Room Nov 20, 2022

Lauren Maillian is a change agent committed to diversity, innovation, equity, and inclusion. She’s an award-winning marketer, prolific investor, advisor, entrepreneur, and board member with a multi-hyphenate career spanning over 15 years. She advised and invested in over 40 startups, and her portfolio represents over $5 billion in market capitalization. She is the CEO of digitalundivided, the leading nonprofit leveraging data, programs, and advocacy to catalyze economic growth for Black and Latinx women entrepreneurs and innovators. Their mission is to create a greater world where all women of color own their work and worth. She is also the Founder and CEO of LMB Group, a strategic marketing, and advisory company. A pioneer in the tech and funding space, Lauren was the first Black woman to start an early-stage venture capital fund as a founding partner and managing director at Gen Y Capital Partners. At 19, Lauren became the youngest winery owner in the country, co-founding the internationally recognized Sugarleaf Vineyards. She is also the author of her best-selling memoir, The Path Redefined: Getting To the Top On Your Own Terms. In this episode, Lauren shares her unapologetic view of the world, how she manages her day, tackles her goals (there are many), and works as a change agent in every room, she is in. Her advice and confidence will leave you feeling empowered to do the same.

Aya Kanai on Leveraging the Power of Outsider Thinking to Change Industries, Letting Your Past Experiences Guide You as a Beginner, and Why Peer-To-Peer Mentorship Should Not Be Undervalued Nov 13, 2022

Aya Kanai has done what most people don't know how to do— change industries. Over twenty years, she rose through the fashion industry ranks, with experience as a Fashion Director at publications including Cosmopolitan, NYLON, Women's Health, and Teen Vogue, ultimately becoming Editor-in-Chief of Marie Claire. But then Aya started having the desire to evolve. She was genuinely curious to understand how the tech platforms that impact our lives daily shape their own narratives. Connecting the dots between fashion and tech was possible because of her expertise in visual storytelling. Today, Aya is the Head of Editorial and Creative for Google Shopping, where she oversees the development and execution of merchandising and consumer content. She was previously the head of content and creator partnerships at Pinterest.

In this episode, Aya takes us on her journey from her college days, where she trained as a Puppeteer, to that junior year college moment when she wanted to put off getting a job and instead applied for an experimental puppet theater fellowship. That opportunity would take her to Poland, the Czech Republic, France, Japan, and the UK, with the only rule that she could not have her feet on American soil for that entire year. That experience taught her to be courageous, independent, and resourceful in challenging circumstances; remember, there were no cell phones or laptops! Aya explains her transition to tech, how she remained fearless while tackling her new experiences, and what she has learned from her peers. She also shares why it's okay to be a beginner and that at various points in your career, you will be a beginner again and again, for better or worse, so you better start getting comfortable with it.

Carly Pildis on Counseling Not Canceling, Why Stopping Antisemitism Should Be Important to Everyone and How to Protect Your Joy Nov 06, 2022

This week's episode on LEAVE YOUR MARK is really important to me. My guest is Carly Pildis, Director of Community Engagement for the ADL (Anti-Defamation League). The ADL fights all forms of antisemitism and bias, using innovation and partnerships to drive impact. They are a global leader in countering extremism and battling bigotry to protect democracy and ensure an inclusive society. Carly has dedicated her career to fighting for justice and equality on a global and national scale.

All four of my grandparents survived the Holocaust camps. They witnessed and persevered through the horror in several extermination camps in Poland and were ultimately liberated from Aushvitz. I don't consider myself a political person, and I am not an activist. Still, the recent public antisemitic incidents have made me feel responsible for using my platforms to educate on this. The media largely ignore antisemitism; if it is covered, it's usually covered incorrectly.

Carly Pildis is highly educated on this subject, and I hope you'll listen to this episode with an open mind. We all come from different perspectives, but I firmly believe in supporting everyone. But there are a lot of extremes at play right now, and we know that when things go to the extreme, whether at the far right or the far left, nothing good comes of it. I think you will learn a lot if you listen to the whole episode. Thank you in advance for your attention.

In this episode, Carly shares the demands of her role, educates on the forms of antisemitism, why it's critical to abolish it, and behind the scenes of the ADL tackling some of the biggest headlines of late. She sheds light on one of the real misnomers about antisemitism which is that it only affects Jews. Antisemitism is hugely corrosive to democracy.

"You'll see very well-meaning people be like, I support tolerance and support people of all faiths, and you're like, well, that's not really what antisemitism is. Antisemitism isn't about faith. It's about picking a group of people, an ethnic group, Jews, and blaming them for the world's ills, and sometimes that ends in violence or discrimination."

The ADL's Never is Now is the largest antisemitism conference in the world. It's happening on November 10th at the Javits Center. If you're thinking about antisemitism, want to learn about antisemitism, wanting to know what you can do about antisemitism, you can learn more here.

Thank you for listening,

Aliza

Jenny Galluzzo on Why Having One Job Is a Thing of the Past and How the Workplace Is Shifting to a "Try Before You Buy" Model Oct 30, 2022

What happens when you land your dream job and it isn't a dream in the end? Jenny Galluzzo started her career in journalism and spent many years researching, writing, hosting, and producing for Good Morning America, News 12, and Plum TV. She was excellent in her role, but after she had two children, she didn't see a path forward. Through her experience and that of her friend, Gina Hadley, they realized firsthand how hard it was to shift careers, especially after having children. Jenny understood that too many women are sidelined when family and work become overwhelming. That inspired them to come together to start The Second Shift, an innovative professional network connecting thousands of highly-skilled vetted women to flexible work opportunities with partner companies, including J.P. Morgan, Twitter, Etsy, and more.

A fierce advocate for flexible remote work as a means for retaining female talent, Jenny is committed to placing women in the driver's seats of their careers so they can build lives rooted in confidence, intention, and optimism. In this episode, we discuss workplace trends, including Quiet Quitting, hustle culture, and the benefit of the limited engagement roles, aka "trying before you buy.” Jenny shares tactics for starting a gig, how to immerse quickly into a company even if it’s unorganized and there’s no direction, and why if you're a high performer, your role will be protected even during a time of layoffs.

Hitha Palepu on Why Restraint in Communication Is an Underrated Superpower, the Battle of Age Versus Experience, and Recognizing That Feedback Isn't Personal Oct 23, 2022

In her own words, Hitha Palepu, a consummate multi-hyphenate who is incapable of saying no, drinks tons of coffee and admits that her secret to doing it all is not doing it all at the same time.

She began her career at Cisco, but her path would eventually lead her back to her family-owned business. Today, as CEO of Rhoshan Pharmaceuticals, she oversees financing, partnerships, and strategy for the company. She led the raise of a $5M seed round and a licensing agreement with Hyloris Pharmaceuticals for the company's lead product.

But along her journey to this point, she had to work harder to prove herself as someone who could handle the role when she was always the youngest and only woman in the room. Not to mention, most of her father's colleagues knew her from birth. Hitha learned that being herself was the best strategy, and instead of conforming to the conservative nature of her work environment, she would lean into her personal flair.

Hitha's sense of style and mompreneur juggling know-how has made her a must-follow. Her longtime blog, Hitha On The Go, established her as an authority on lifestyle topics and gave way to her book How To Pack: Travel Smart for Any Trip. She's collaborated with leading brands (Delta, Headspace, and Google) and has a highly engaged Instagram following and newsletter. She curates the Webby-honored #5SmartReads every weekday, which reaches nearly 100,000 accounts.

In this episode, Hitha shares how she learned to show up in rooms where she was the minority while still being true to herself. She explains how she developed a confident voice. Spoiler alert: The answer for her lay in talking less, being firm, and establishing boundaries. Her mantra of "stop talking and listen more" is written on post-its on her computer. Ironic advice considering she's the author of WE'RE SPEAKING: The Life Lessons of Kamala Harris, someone she credits as a virtual mentor who has taught her to embrace rejection and never be put in a box.

Jenny Blake on Quietly Unsubscribing From Burnout, Harnessing Free Time, and Why We Should Stop Sailing the Sea of Shiny Shoulds Oct 09, 2022

We have all heard the term 'quiet quitting' circulating online. Before it was trendy, Jenny Blake referred to it as 'quietly unsubscribing from burnout.' From a young age, Jenny found herself promoted or exceeding expectations professionally, which always led to burnout. So the decision to work sustainably, setting aside the fears of being fired if she didn't give 200% at all times, led her to pivot again and again until she figured out her secret recipe for success.

In her new book Free Time: Lose the Busywork, Love Your Business, Jenny teaches that it's not about working as little as possible. Nor is it about creating a lifestyle business purely for one's own gain. It is about creating a life-giving business that energizes everyone who is a part of it, from the owner to team members, clients, and the community. Free Time is about making small investments now to create greater optionality in the future. It's a playbook to free your mind, time, and team for your best work. This book will teach you and your team to operate efficiently and intuitively while earning abundantly, so you can make your greatest contribution as a business owner. You'll learn much from Jenny's philosophy, even if you're not a business owner.

In this episode, Jenny shares how to go from friction to flow in all areas of your life, how micro guilt and focusing on what you should have done is not benefiting you, and so much more!

Lauren “Lo” Harris on Why You Shouldn’t Wait for Other People to Permit You to Move Forward and How She’s Proactively Building Her Brand With Intention Oct 02, 2022

Lauren, aka “Lo” Harris, began her career in journalism. Early on, she was crushing whatever came her way and quickly became “too good.” Supervisors would suggest she slow down while she saw men around her moving up. Feeling like she was suffering from the “pet to threat” syndrome that many Black women experience, she felt stifled by the ceiling above her and decided that she had reached the limit of people-pleasing and trying to prove herself. As someone who had studied art in high school and loved art as a personal passion, Lo decided to explore her creativity. It wasn’t until 2020 that her work became more than just a hobby.

After creating her personal illustration, Justice, reacting to COVID, the election, George Floyd, and the ongoing cause for BLM, the partnership inquiries started coming in. Suddenly, Lo was an in-demand artist. For someone who had never considered starting her own company, she faced the reality that one was beginning around her. Today, Lo is an NYC-based artist, educator, and children’s book illustrator, who uses bright colors, strong figures, and relational compositions to create celebratory work that promotes visions of a better world. The important themes incorporated into Lo’s work deal with social justice, female empowerment, and mental wellness. With an impressive client list including Amazon, Old Navy, Hulu, Warby Parker, Bombay Sapphire, and the United Nations, Lo Harris will inspire you to find a way to use your voice. She’s even been on The Ellen Show.

As someone who sincerely wants to abolish gatekeeping, Lo dedicates time to educating other artists on the business. She has created her business with intention, clarifying her own brand pillars and vision for a Lo Harris Universe, which will evolve into a future lifestyle brand.

In this episode, Lo takes us along her journey from the days when she had to fake it til she made it to today and how she structures her business and time. She shares why she is building a team around her instead of waiting to be chosen by an agency and why she’s not waiting for brands to call her. This episode will leave you motivated and inspired!

Melissa Ben-Ishay on Why Anything Incredible is Hard, How She Finally Embraced the Role of CEO, and the Ingredients of a Strong Brand Sep 25, 2022

Melissa Ben-Ishay is not afraid to say it like it is, a characteristic that didn't go over well at her first job when she asked her boss why he didn't write the email himself if he had so many corrections. She knew she wasn't passionate about doing well in that role, and it showed. After she was fired, she was faced with what to do next. Melissa decided to turn toward her passion, baking. In 2008, together with her brother, they embarked on the journey to create Baked by Melissa.

Love, passion, and dedication are part of the recipe Melissa has followed both in business and life. Today the company operates 14 stores and has sold over 150 million cupcakes. Every cupcake is made by hand using only the most delicious ingredients. Bite-sized flavors, gift boxes for every occasion, and custom nationwide shipping packaging ensure their treats arrive safe and fresh. Baked by Melissa has become an endlessly popular gift-giving brand across the U.S., and Melissa has one goal: to be happy and make people happy, one bite at a time.

In this episode, Melissa transparently shares how she gathered the courage to take on the CEO role after eight years in the business. As the face and keeper of the brand, Melissa knows firsthand what it takes to create and maintain a strong brand and why she won't compromise on those principles. Melissa's strong work ethic and belief that your team is everything contribute to her success. She also believes in the importance of surrounding yourself with people who have the skills you don't. This episode is a refreshing breath of fresh air because Melissa is as real as they come. We also learn how she came up with her now famous Green Goddess salad with her 21 million views on TikTok and made by Lizzo!

From $10,000 to $2 million, Tiffany James is Teaching Women of Color the Joys of Sisterhood and Stocks at Modern BLK Girl Sep 18, 2022

Tiffany James is never going back to the financial life she led before. As a Haitian-Jamaican American from Brooklyn, New York, Tiffany had student debt after college, like most students. At 25, while working as an event manager at an NYC hotel, a co-worker persuaded her to invest in Tesla, and the rest is history. Two years later, she’s turned her initial investment of $10,000 into $2 million. In November 2020, she founded Modern BLK Girl, the largest digital platform designed for women of color to build wealth through investing in the stock market. As a self-taught stock enthusiast, Tiffany has helped over 225,000 (mostly) women break into the boys club and banish the taboos of investment. This first-of-its-kind platform has helped thousands of women of color earn over $3.5 million in the stock market, with a continued mission to get 500,000 black women in the market while growing into one of the largest online platforms for women of color to build wealth. Tiffany has been featured in Bloomberg, Fox News, Business insider, and Afrotech and has touted collaborations with Forbes, Motley Fool, and more. In this episode, Tiffany shares her motivation to learn the language of investing and so much more. If you don’t have the money to invest, think again. This is an eye-opening episode on the possibilities of changing your financial trajectory.

Cate Luzio on Betting on Yourself, Learning How to "Walk it Off" and Getting Comfortable With the Uncomfortable Sep 11, 2022

After a two-decade successful career in finance, Cate Luzio decided to bet on herself and become an entrepreneur. As the Founder and CEO of Luminary, she self-funded a collaboration hub for women who are passionate about professional development and expanding their networks. In this episode, you'll hear how Cate mastered the "boys club" of finance, created her own "whisper networks" and wrote the business plan for Luminary in a week. You'll also learn the importance of socializing your ideas, how to develop a thick skin, and why you shouldn't apologize for being the boss.

Nicole Lapin on Why Women Should Declare Themselves Experts, Put a Price Tag on Their Dreams and Create Their Own Wealth Aug 28, 2022

No one likes managing their money, but money expert and New York Times best-selling author of Boss Bitch, Rich Bitch, Becoming Super Woman, and now Miss Independent, Nicole Lapin, makes it easy. Have you ever wondered how millionaires make their money? Spoiler alert: it's not from saving money. My favorite money expert, Nicole Lapin, is back on LEAVE YOUR MARK with her new Wall Street Journal #2 bestselling book, Miss Independent. "Millionaires don't make their money just from their salaries, no matter how big their paychecks get. They have an average of seven additional streams of income, many of which are passive, meaning their money is making money for them while they sleep."

Nicole had no choice but to learn the language of money, and empowering people to embrace and understand it has been her goal ever since. Nicole started out making $20K a year and getting into almost as much credit card debt. She never worked at a bank and didn't have an MBA. "I wasn't born into wealth or privilege. There were days when I didn't have food to put in my mouth, much less a silver spoon. For much of my early career, I either lived paycheck to paycheck, was in debt, and/or subsisted on a brown-rice-and-beans diet (it felt fancier than ramen). I tell you this because if I could become Miss Independent—totally financially set up and secure on my own—then anyone can, including you. I promise."

Miss Independent is your best friend who knows and shares all the ins and out of saving money and investing it meaningfully. You don't have to understand finance to heed Nicole's advice. With in-depth tutorials and humor to boot, Nicole can transform your mindset to begin to think differently. In this episode, Nicole shares that she may not have been a financial expert, but she was an expert in being broke, and writing her four bestselling books was her way of teaching everything necessary to learn the language of finance. Nicole calls on a lot of BS cliches, and one of them, which she shared, was "knowledge is power," instead, Nicole says that 'action is power.' Nicole also points out that women can have it all, only if you define what 'it all' means for you and then stick to it rather than changing the goal post.

How to Negotiate Anything with Alexandra Carter, World-renowned Negotiation Trainer for the United Nations and Best-Selling Author of ASK FOR MORE Aug 21, 2022

Do you know how to ask for more? Well, meet Alexandra Carter, best-selling Author of ASK FOR MORE: Ten Questions to Negotiate Anything. Alexandra is the Director of the Mediation Clinic at Columbia Law School and a world-renowned negotiation trainer for the United Nations. Her book hit #3 on WSJ's Best-Seller list. In this episode, you will learn the art of negotiation, the difference between mirror and window questions, and how learning to negotiate effectively will unlock all your future opportunities. This episode is essential learning no matter what stage of your career you are in!

Bevy Smith on Why It Gets Greater Later, the Beauty of Not Fitting a Mold, and How to Rebrand Yourself Aug 07, 2022

Bevy Smith was my first guest on LEAVE YOUR MARK, and she's back with even more humor and incredible insights. In her inspiring book, Bevelations: Lessons from a Mutha, Auntie, Bestie, she captures her experience transitioning from a fashion advertising executive into a media personality, all while living a big, authentic, and unapologetic life. But what happens when everything you've wished for comes true and yet doesn't make you happy? In this episode, Bevy discusses the lessons of her memoir, Bevelations. The book is no holds barred- just like Bevy. This episode is full of inspiring and worthwhile lessons on living an authentic life at any age. In her fifth decade, Bevy is living her best life yet. Her TED Talk, "How to discover your authentic self -- at any age" is packed with wry wisdom where this pop culture queen shares hard-earned lessons about authenticity, confidence, mature success and why, if you put in the work, "life gets greater later."

JoAnna Hartzmark on Embracing Your Non-linear Path, Why Being Set In Your Ways Is a Risk, and the True Life of a Start-up Founder Jul 31, 2022

JoAnna Hartzmark has worked in Finance, Fashion, and Tech. Instead of judging her meandering path negatively, her embrace of the unknown has made her a Swiss Army knife. As the Founder and CEO of Revelle, an e-commerce brand sitting at the cutting edge of fashion and technology, she's redefining what it means to have clothes fit for women. Her passion is solving issues at the intersection of tech and humanity. After all, the definition of clothing fit is personal. Ever since she was a young girl, her family lovingly nicknamed her a "change maven" because of her innate ability to adapt and connect with others in new situations. It was no surprise that she pursued a degree in Decision Science so she could further understand the way consumers behave and pivot in an increasingly digital world.

JoAnna began her career in financial services before transitioning into luxury retail, where she supported teams at Gucci and Ralph Lauren as an e-commerce analyst. JoAnna realized that female-focused brands were not doing their part to solve female-focused problems as her career shifted through various industries. Then, Revelle was born out of her desire to address this glaring disconnect. Charged by her passion for change, Revelle is rejecting the norms of building a traditional "fashion" company and transforming the way women shop online.

In this episode, JoAnna shares that pivoting doesn't necessarily mean that you have failed or your time has been wasted. She explains why you should aim to fail at least once a day. We dive into her non-linear path and learn the fun fact that JoAnna has a plethora of CVs, each telling a different story about her experience. As a new founder, JoAnna shares what it's like to build something from scratch, including the stark reality of loneliness in the beginning.

Luxury Executive Recruiter Kristy Hurt Shares Every Single Secret to the Hiring Process Jul 24, 2022

Kristy Hurt is the executive recruiter you need to know. As the founder of Kristy Hurt Consulting, she has more than 20 years of experience working with brands in luxury, fashion, and beauty. In this episode, you can expect to learn about what recruiters are really searching for, why they won't respond to your emails, the trick to negotiation, how to rock the interview process, write a killer resume, and so much more. If you're job hunting or hiring, this is a must-listen.

Fran Hauser on Focusing on Talents You Have Versus the Talents You Don’t, Hacks For Introverts, and Why Leaving Your Job Isn’t Always the Right Answer Jul 17, 2022

Fran Hauser wants you to know that you don’t have to choose between being nice and being strong. In her first best-selling book, The Myth of the Nice Girl: Achieving a Career You Love Without Becoming a Person You Hate, Fran teaches that being nice is a superpower. Now she’s back with a tactical workbook, Embrace the Work, Love Your Career, which is quickly becoming the go-to for women seeking more joy and fulfillment in their careers. Fran has pivoted in her career from accounting to media to start-up investing. Her passion lies in leveling the playing field for women through her roles of investing, writing, and speaking. Fran has invested in over 30 female-founded companies across consumer tech, CPG, media & publishing, and wellness. Much of her current work is informed by 15 years spent in media, where she rose through the ranks at Time Inc. to President of Digital.

In this episode, Fran shares the importance of creating a “smile file,” having workplace champions, and why you need to build out a diverse network. She also warns about not falling prey to “distractors” at work. As an introvert, Fran shares some valuable advice on how to network, why you need to speak up no matter where you are in your career, and so much more.

Hal Rubenstein on How to Be a Happy Grownup, Why Learning Something New Every Day Is Essential, and the Power of Having an Educated Opinion Jul 10, 2022

I probably should have started this interview asking Hal Rubenstein what he can’t do. From reading at the age of three, teaching high school English, landing multiple magazine writing jobs out of college, owning his own successful catering business, being named the first men’s style editor of the New York Times, and defining high/low fashion as the fashion director of In Style, all while being a renowned food and fashion critic, author, and on-air personality, Hal has done it all. Hal’s passion is learning what he doesn’t know and hasn’t done. His upcoming mission is celebrating life after 50 with The Happy Grownup.

This episode is one big life lesson. Hal preaches why cancel culture has gone too far, the merits of acquiring joy each day, and why you should focus on one thing you can accomplish today. He warns about the dangers of following someone else’s opinion and why you’re being judged just like a book jacket no matter where you go. Hal’s pro tip: dress like a best seller. Most importantly, Hal is banishing aging gracefully and replacing it with aging with excitement. He’s just getting started, and after you listen to this episode, you will also be.

Zibby Owens on Why Rejection Should Never Stunt Your Goal, Ditching Type A Perfectionism for Happiness, and How She Rewrote Her Own Story at 40 Jul 03, 2022

“The path you are on is not necessarily the path you are going to stay on” is a lesson Zibby Owens wants to pass on but one she had to learn. Zibby always knew she wanted to be a writer, but when she tried her hand as an author, she was met with rejection after rejection– for years. Refusing to give up, she pushed past the pain and shame of countless nos and finally made her dream a reality. Her deeply personal book, Bookends: A Memoir of Love, Loss, and Literature, shares a transparent tale of her life, its ups and downs, and twists and turns, including motherhood, leaving the workforce for over a decade, divorce, and a surprising second chance at love at 40. As an award-winning podcast host, entrepreneur, publisher, author, reader, and mother, Zibby’s life has all the makings of a movie and enough inspiration for moms everywhere or anyone striving for something they have yet to attain.

As the founder and CEO of Zibby Owens Media, Zibby is determined to help busy people live their best lives by connecting to books and each other. Her brand Moms Don’t Have Time To, is the home for Zibby’s award-winning podcasts (Moms Don’t Have Time to Read Books and Sex Tok), publications (including two anthologies), and communities. Zibby Books is a publishing home for fiction and memoir, which she co-founded with Leigh Newman. She’s also a regular columnist for Good Morning America, Katie Couric Media, and Moms Don’t Have Time to Write on Medium.

In this episode, Zibby transparently shares her advice for pushing through the pain of rejection, how every day she learns how to let go of her Type A personality, and why when things go wrong, it’s not the right time for them to happen. Zibby continues to make the joy of writing and her love of books the centerpiece of her own bookends.

Laurie Segall on Fighting For What You Deserve, Battling Subtle Sexism in the Workplace, and Leaning Into The Future of Communication Jun 19, 2022

Growing up, Laurie Segall felt like she didn’t fit perfectly anywhere. As her high school newspaper editor, she always found herself writing about the odd and outcasted. But it’s probably her keen sense of what’s weird, interesting, and emerging that has made her an award-winning investigative reporter and the founder of Dot Dot Dot, a media company focused on onboarding the mainstream into a new era of the internet, Web3.

Beginning in 2008 at 23 as a newly minted assistant at CNN and as Wall Street was crashing down, she began discovering a group of scrappy misfits rising from the ashes of the recession to change the world: the tech entrepreneurs. Seeing this space as an area no one at CNN was covering, she wrote a job description and pitched it. Over a decade, Laurie became one of the first reporters to give airtime to many of these founders—from Mark Zuckerberg and Jack Dorsey to Kevin Systrom and Travis Kalanick —while tracking their evolution and society’s cultural shift in the CNN startup beat she created. By the end of her tenure at CNN, she had become its on-air senior technology correspondent. She had witnessed the rise of second-wave tech, from the boom to the “complicated years” to the backlash, as her misfits emerged as some of the world’s most influential leaders. Her book, Special Characters: My Adventures with Tech’s Titans and Misfits is a memoir detailing her career journey with early access to some of the most influential people in the world during a time when they still answered their own phones.

In this episode, Laurie shares her rise in investigative journalism, her struggles with the silent death of a thousand cuts of sexism in her industry, and how she learned to fight for what she knew was rightly hers. She shares that to be successful at something, you must immerse yourself in it, have the guts to ask for what you want when an opportunity presents itself, say yes, and learn how to tackle it as you go along.

Amy Odell Tells All in ANNA: The Biography, Uncovering the Complicated, Contradictory, and Surprising, Anna Wintour Jun 12, 2022

Amy Odell always knew she wanted to work in journalism. As a fashion and culture reporter, she has left her mark on countless publications, most notably New York Magazine's The Cut. But she got called to interview for a role at Vogue magazine during her time there. After an unsuccessful interview with the formidable Anna Wintour, she did not get the job. The truth was she probably wasn't right for it as fashion was still an industry she was trying to understand. But if someone would have told her then that she would end up writing ANNA: The Biography, the most comprehensive account of the life and reign of Anna Wintour years later, she would not have believed them.

Because of my fashion background and experience with Anna, this episode turned into a very candid discussion covering the complexities of what it is like to work with Anna, who benefits from her loyalty, and who gets left in the dust when she decides that you're radioactive. Amy and I go deep into Anna's complicated and often controversial decisions, including the defense of the antisemitic John Galliano and Georgina Chapman during the height of the Harvey Weinstein #MeToo movement. Whatever you think you know about Anna Wintour, this book and episode will shed a different light on someone who has seized and held power for over 34 years and shows no signs of being dethroned any time soon.

Nicole Jeter West on Her Superpower of Infinite Tenacity, Giving Up Your Dream When Opportunity Knocks, and Why You Should Become Indispensable Jun 05, 2022

When will I ever get this opportunity again? A question Nicole Jeter West asked herself when a new job opportunity arose out of the blue. Would she give up her dream of working in advertising to join the New York Knicks? The answer would set her on the journey of her career. Nicole has always followed her gut and curiosity, which has led her down a path she never anticipated. She is now the CEO of the Underdog Venture Team, an organization on a mission to change the game of sports business with a new "pay it forward" model that invests in unique, social-impact-driven business opportunities led by passionate passions and diverse leaders.

As CEO, Nicole is responsible for the organization's leadership, strategic vision, and growth initiatives with a focus on empowering the next generation of women and BIPOC leaders to up-level the entire industry. With more than 20 years of experience in the sports and entertainment industry, Nicole joined the underdog venture team from the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games, where she was the head of brand marketing and engagement. Before joining LA28, Nicole was the chief marketing officer for Legends, and Nicole spent five years as the managing director of ticket and digital for the United States Tennis Association (USTA). She started her career in marketing at Madison Square Garden and the New York Knicks. She has earned Sports Business Journal's "40 Under 40" and "Power Players" honors while also being named one of Sports Illustrated's "100 Influential Black Women in Sports".

In this episode, Nicole shares the secrets to her success which stem from what her husband calls her secret sauce: infinite tenacity and being indispensable. Nicole's journey is a lesson in taking chances and seeing the opportunity in everything, even if at the time it doesn't fit the exact mold of what you expected. We talk about the importance of shifting your perspective on what is best for the team instead of personal gain and why she believes in harmony over balance. Nicole got comfortable feeling uncomfortable years ago, and she shares why you should too.

Liz Lange’s Second Act, Why Having It All Is a Myth, and What It Was Like Growing up in the Famous Steinberg Family May 22, 2022

Can you imagine what it would be like to be crazy rich? Liz Lange can. In her new podcast, The Just Enough Family, she shares her story of growing up in the Steinberg family, a name as famous as Bezos back in the day. After graduating from Brown, Liz didn’t need to work but started a career at Conde Nast in the features department. She dreamed of becoming a writer, but that’s not what happened. Instead, Liz became an accidental entrepreneur as the “first maternity wear designer”, catering to pregnant A-list celebrities. In the early 2000s, Liz gained recognition as a retail pioneer and a global trendsetter by forging multiple major licensing deals with Nike, Target, and HSN that catapulted her into a household name. But Liz wasn’t enjoying work-life balance and recognized that while we love to say women can have it all, the truth is, something always gives. In this case, one of her life areas that needed attention was her kids. She decided to sell her business to focus on her family.

Entrepreneurship always runs under the surface, though. In December 2020, Liz acquired Figure, a New York-based luxury resort-wear brand, most notable for their kaftans, dresses, and soft separates, that she is a fan and customer of. Today, she is the CEO and Creative Director, intending to continue the brand’s legacy of dressing fashionable women around the world while also expanding its categories and reach.

In this episode, Liz delightfully shares her truth- the good, the bad, and the scandalous. She transparently explains her rise from building her incredible brand with no design or business background to recognizing where she was falling short. We dive into her leadership style and expectations and how her childhood has shaped her perspective. She takes us on her new journey with Figure and why she believes her second act will be just as exciting as the first.

Hollywood's Nail Guru, Deborah Lippmann, on How to Blend Your Passions to Navigate Two Careers at Once and Become a Reluctant Entrepreneur May 15, 2022

"Either do it or shut up about it" is the phrase that would ultimately lead Deborah Lippmann on the journey of a lifetime to create an eponymous empire in the beauty industry. So if you are someone like Deborah who can't stop talking about a passion, unconsciously, you are ready to go and do it. You just have to find the courage to bet on yourself.

Hands down (no pun intended), Deborah Lippmann is the leading authority in the wildly competitive nail category. Established in 1999, Deborah Lippmann was founded on an ethos of quality meets care. Informed by her years on the red carpet, fashion runways, and editorial, the award-winning brand reflects her ultra-high standards in terms of product performance. It is crafted to nourish and support nails and skin. Time and again, she's broken new ground and pioneered innovative practices in both the editorial and brand arenas. Her business is a family affair, working with her husband and brother since its inception.

Deborah is the go-to manicurist for an awe-inspiring list of celebrities, including Oprah Winfrey, Lupita Nyong'o, Laura Dern, and Lady Gaga, to name just a few. She also enjoys stellar fashion cred through her backstage magic for such houses as Chanel, Balenciaga, Dior, and Versace. But it's in Deborah Lippmann's eponymous brand, that her creativity and business acumen truly shines. She has been crowned a "mega-manicurist" by Vogue and "one of the best manicurists in the country" by Allure.

But Deborah never gave up her first dream to be a jazz singer. She has a degree in music from Arizona State University, has recorded three albums, and has her own iTunes and Spotify channels. Deborah has performed in numerous New York City clubs, including The Carlyle, Feinstein's, and The Rainbow Room. She has sung the national anthem multiple times at Madison Square Garden and recently for the Minneapolis Twins.

In this episode, Deborah shares how she navigated her true passion as a professional jazz singer– a lifelong love and also began a journey that would lead to building a luxury nail brand. We discuss the intimacy of her business, how to build authentic relationships and the secret to her longevity and success. Plus, the behind-the-scenes of what it's like working with Hollywood's biggest stars during award season!

The Rise of Corporate Natalie, Tapping Into the Creator Economy, and How She Balances Her Real Job May 01, 2022

After experiencing the utter bleakness of 2020’s ‘Work From Home’ life, Natalie Marshall couldn’t help but take to TikTok to poke fun at the current state of Corporate America. With 400K Followers on Instagram and over 375K on TikTok with 15.4 Million likes, she has made people around the world laugh and bond over the shared hilarity of ‘New Normal’ nuances. But while Natalie has experienced a growing social footprint, she has continued to balance her full-time corporate job. Natalie retains her anonymity to do just that! In this episode, Natalie shares her rise to social media stardom and how she balances her side hustle with her real corporate job. We also dive into the creator economy and what brands can learn from the creators who are native to these platforms. Says Natalie, “You have to speak the language if you want to be successful on Tik Tok.” We discuss the mental health aspects of being a public person and how she handles the haters and protects herself. She also shares the hard work of being a creator and the importance of outsourcing what isn’t your core competencies. Plus so much more!

Gabby Bernstein on How to Achieve Happy Days by Learning The Guided Path from Trauma to Profound Freedom Apr 24, 2022

If you were free from fear, who would you have the freedom to be? In her new book, Happy Days, Gabby Bernstein charts a path to heal trauma, unlearn fear, and remember love. "In order to figure out what is the path you are meant to be on, you first must unlearn all the fears that were picked up along the way," says Gabby Bernstein, who is a #1 New York Times Bestselling author, motivational speaker, spiritual leader, and podcast host. Her newest book Happy Days: The Guided Path from Trauma to Profound Freedom and Inner Peace, teaches nine transformational, yet untapped, techniques for serenity and genuine happiness—from "reparenting" yourself to bodywork practices for freeing the stuck energy of past trauma. Gabby started on her own journey from hosting intimate conversations with 20 people and evolved to speaking to tens of thousands in sold-out venues throughout the world.

In 2009, Gabby was featured in The New York Times as a "guru" for the next generation. The Oprah Winfrey Network chose Gabby to be part of the "SuperSoul 100," a dynamic group of trailblazers whose vision and life's work bring a higher consciousness level to the world. Gabby connects with her community through her Miracle Membership and her podcast Dear Gabby.

In this episode, Gabby shares her personal path from trauma to freedom. She explains the importance of showing up for yourself and how if you do, you will be able to show up in other areas of your life. Gabby teaches the differences between trauma with a capital T and a small t, how to broach trauma with your boss, undo the patterns that make you stuck in the past, and so much more.

Sneak Peek to Season 9! Apr 10, 2022

You never know where your path will lead but when it shows itself, follow it. Thank you to my amazing guests and my season eight partner, Ever/Body! Catch up on episodes you’ve missed and stay tuned for season nine which kicks off 4/24!

That Famous "Blue Cardigan Guy," Adam Rose, Unpacks the Impact of Social Media on Traditional Industry Success, the Secret to His Creativity, and How to Build a Positive Community Online Apr 03, 2022

Adam Rose has lived the acting life in Hollywood since he was 9-years old, making his debut opposite Robin Williams and Julie Kavner in Woody Allen's Deconstructing Harry. With over 55 tinsel-town projects to date he's played roles on the sets of luminary directors and actors with credits that include The Sopranos, Veronica Mars, Netflix's Santa Clarita Diet, Supernatural, Merry Happy Whatever, and so many more. He's worked with Matthew Broderick, Matt Damon, Mark Ruffalo, and Anna Paquin, to name a few. As a writer, Adam sold his first pilot, PISSED, to Warner Bros. His short film, QUEEN, which he wrote and directed, screened at over 50 film festivals and won several awards. But back in 2009, he intuitively knew that social media would change how the world consumes content forever. At a time when most of his celebrity peers turned their noses up to anything "online," Adam began cultivating fans outside of his Hollywood projects.

Today, Adam has amassed an enormous social media following, with over 3.7 million followers on TikTok and nearly half a million on Instagram, not to mention his growing YouTube. He's one of the most beloved creators with A-list brand deals, known for his viral comedy sketches, dances, and "lovely" wife, a character he plays opposite himself. In this episode, Adam and I unpack the question, "What drives the other: Does the traditional career drive a social following, or does a social following drive your traditional career?" It's an interesting debate. We dive into the story of digital identity and the famous blue cardigan that his fans are obsessed with, and how his community reacts to his content. Adam shares his content strategy, secrets to creativity, production schedule, and a typical day in his life. The whole episode is like a hug in your ear, full of warmth, comedy, and advice.

Mandy Teefey From 13 Reasons Why to Wondermind, Why Mental Fitness Is the Future, and How to Advocate for Accommodations at Work Mar 27, 2022

"Did I want to be there for a moment, or did I want to be there forever"? That's the question Mandy Teefey asked herself when she contemplated whether she should prioritize her mental health or be there for her daughter, Selena Gomez's, first day of Kindergarten. Fast forward to today, and Mandy Teefey is a co-founder and co-CEO of Wondermind and the founder and CEO of Kicked to the Curb Productions, where she has developed award-winning and nominated content. Mandy is best known for her work on Netflix's 13 Reasons Why. Mandy's personal journey struggling with mental health has fueled her passion and drive. Wondermind will satisfy the hunger for inclusive content and the need to change the narrative on how mental health is portrayed. It also gives people the tools to practice "mental health fitness," both online and offline.

Mandy was misdiagnosed as bipolar and later diagnosed with ADHD with Trauma, which has fueled her passion for offering accessible mental health resources for anyone and everyone. Co-founded with Selena Gomez and Daniella Pierson, Wondermind is a multimedia company that destigmatizes and democratizes mental health in a way that has never been done before.

In this episode, Mandy shares her incredible and heartfelt journey. From her mental health struggles to being a teenage mom, she authentically shares how her career came to be despite her misdiagnosis as being bipolar. With a dream of storytelling in entertainment, Mandy has made some of the biggest contributions to normalizing the mental health discussion in Hollywood.

Chrissy Rutherford on Why Fashion’s Diversity Education is Not Over, Mental Health Transparency in the Workplace and How Opportunities That Are Meant to Be Yours Will Be Mar 13, 2022

What does it feel like when your video goes viral? Chrissy Rutherford knows. She was shocked when her video captioned, “It’s not enough to just say “I’m not racist, ” following the murder of George Floyd went viral, garnering over 5 million views in less than a day. Chrissy realized that there was much to teach her industry on being anti-racist. After working in fashion for 12+ years as the former Special Projects Director and the Senior Digital Fashion editor of harpersbazaar.com, she decided to join forces with fellow fashion editor Danielle Prescod, creating 2BG (Two Black Girls). 2BG is a consultancy that advises fashion and beauty brands along with influencers on how to implement anti-racist communication strategies. She is also a digital creator who has partnered with brands like Tiffany & Co., Jimmy Choo, Saks Fifth Avenue, and more.

In this episode, Chrissy shares her journey breaking into fashion with tactical advice on how to make sure your bosses never forget you, how to be politely persistent, what it means to know your value, and how to know when to leave your job. She also transparently shares her struggle with mental health and her mission to make diversity and inclusion in fashion a mainstay of the present and future.

Nicole Lapin on Why Women Should Declare Themselves Experts, Put a Price Tag on Their Dreams and Forge a Mindset of Aspiration Instead of Deprivation Mar 06, 2022

No one likes managing their money, but money expert and New York Times best-selling author of Boss Bitch, Rich Bitch, Becoming Super Woman, and now Miss Independent, Nicole Lapin, makes it easy. Have you ever wondered how millionaires make their money? Spoiler alert: it's not from saving money. My favorite money expert, Nicole Lapin, is back on LEAVE YOUR MARK with her new Wall Street Journal #2 bestselling book, Miss Independent. "Millionaires don't make their money just from their salaries, no matter how big their paychecks get. They have an average of seven additional streams of income, many of which are passive, meaning their money is making money for them while they sleep." Nicole had no choice but to learn the language of money, and empowering people to embrace and understand it has been her goal ever since. Nicole started out making $20K a year and getting into almost as much credit card debt. She never worked at a bank and didn't have an MBA. "I wasn't born into wealth or privilege. There were days when I didn't have food to put in my mouth, much less a silver spoon. For much of my early career, I either lived paycheck to paycheck, was in debt, and/or subsisted on a brown-rice-and-beans diet (it felt fancier than ramen). I tell you this because if I could become Miss Independent—totally financially set up and secure on my own—then anyone can, including you. I promise." Miss Independent is your best friend who knows and shares all the ins and out of saving money and investing it meaningfully. You don't have to understand finance to heed Nicole's advice. With in-depth tutorials and humor to boot, Nicole can transform your mindset to begin to think differently. In this episode, Nicole shares that she may not have been a financial expert, but she was an expert in being broke, and writing her four bestselling books was her way of teaching everything necessary to learn the language of finance. Nicole calls on a lot of BS cliches, and one of them, which she shared, was "knowledge is power," instead, Nicole says that 'action is power.' Nicole also points out that women can have it all, only if you define what 'it all' means for you and then stick to it rather than changing the goal post.

Erica Keswin on How to Make an Impression as a Remote Worker Mar 02, 2022

In a world that's gone virtual, how do you make an impression if no one sees you? How do you collaborate and connect? Are you a camera off or a camera on person? Are you 100% work from home or hybrid? Whether you're an executive or an assistant, remote work affects everyone. On this LEAVE YOUR MARK snack segment, I speak with workplace strategist and author Erica Keswin on how to make an impression as a remote worker. Erica has worked for the past twenty years with some of the most iconic brands in the world as a consultant, speaker, author, and professional dot-connector. Her bestselling book, Bring Your Human to Work: Ten Sure-Fire Ways to Design a Workplace That's Good for People, Great for Business, and Just Might Change the World, was published by McGraw-Hill in the fall of 2018. Her second book, Rituals Roadmap: The Human Way to Transform Everyday Routines Into Workplace Magic made the Wall Street Journal, Publishers Weekly and USA Today best seller lists. Erica's work and insights can be seen in various media outlets, including Harvard Business Review, NY Post, Forbes, Huffington Post, O Magazine, Entrepreneur, Business Insider, Mogul, Conscious Company, Quartz, and Fast Company. Erica was named one of Marshall Goldsmith's Top 100 Coaches in 2020, as well as one of Business Insider's most innovative coaches of 2020.

Sarah LaFleur on How Your Vulnerability and Desperation Can Breed Your Biggest and Bravest Ideas Feb 27, 2022

Does desperation paralyze or invigorate you? For founder and CEO Sarah LaFleur, it was both. After quitting her dream job after four months because, spoiler alert, it was not a dream, she decided she had no choice but to become an entrepreneur. In truth, her motivation came from her inability to explain her departure in a way that wouldn’t permanently dent her career. Owning your narrative and shaping your story is something that many people struggle with, but for Sarah, her so-called failure spawned the birth of her company, M.M. LaFleur.

Frustrated by a lack of women’s workwear options that were stylish and practical, she teamed up with Miyako Nakamura and Narie Foster to launch M.M.LaFleur in 2013. Their mission is to help women take the work out of getting dressed, so they can focus on the work that matters to them. The brand is known for its functional design details, comfort (like go ahead and nap in these clothes), and no “dry cleaning necessary” pieces. The brand is also doing its part in supporting women where it counts most. Passionate about seeing more women run for office, M.M. LaFleur has loaned clothing to over 275 female candidates. Since 2017, they have partnered with Bottomless Closet o help disadvantaged women in the NYC area jumpstart their careers, making it possible for women to donate their workwear at either M.M. LaFleur store in NYC or DC. They also offer special discounts to the military, veterans, medical professionals, first responders (including government and public service workers), and teachers.

In this episode, Sarah shares her origin story and the struggles she dealt with after thinking she had destroyed her career. She explains why sometimes the answer to depression is just to keep moving forward. We talk about how her mother is her biggest inspiration, how to use your clothes to send powerful messages, and much more.

DeDe Brown on Leveraging Your Experience, Humility, and Curiosity to Make Bold Industry Moves Feb 20, 2022

DeDe Brown and her career exemplify what it means to carve your own path and leave your mark. From studying broadcast journalism at the University of Alabama to finding her way through the bright lights of Hollywood, DeDe proves that if you put yourself in the right places, are humble enough to learn, and stay curious, people will take a chance on you. Today, DeDe is the senior vice president of multicultural marketing and publicity at Paramount Pictures, one of the biggest production companies in Hollywood. DeDe's journey is the story of having no connections at the start, waiting many, many tables, and being clever enough to know when opportunities present themselves for you to take that leap to the next rung on the career ladder. When she's not helping run the show behind the scenes at Paramount, she's co-hosting a podcast, BLK ON THE SCENE, featuring Black voices who are helping to drive change and representation in entertainment. In this episode, we talk about the concept of putting your trust in the skills you have acquired and taking a chance to grow your career in a new industry. We talk about what it takes to succeed in marketing and public relations, especially in a high-stakes industry, and why DeDe believes that her humility, curiosity, and willingness to admit when she doesn't know the answer have contributed to her ability to thrive in her roles.

Stacy London on Manifesting What You Want and Seizing That Opportunity Even When You Don't Think You Can Do It Feb 13, 2022

When Stacy London joined this podcast in season two, her parting words were a wish. She hoped in the future to do something for women her age. Needless to say, she manifested her dream role and what happened next is crazy. Now, Stacy is back to share what she has been up to since the last time she was on this podcast. Stacy London was previously a fashion stylist who has styled everyone from Kate Winslet to Liv Tyler. She's a best-selling author and TV personality, made famous from the fan-favorite series, What Not to Wear. As a person in the public eye, Stacy has been very transparent about her journey—the ups and the downs, the battles with body image, and even finances.

Today, Stacy has faced her fear of the unknown and redefined what it means to be Stacy London. As the CEO of State of Menopause, a company she acquired a year ago, Stacy is helping women understand this next phase of life, not just through their products. It's her mission to make talking about menopause as normal as talking about pregnancy. But beyond that, Stacy is proving that there is a Renaissance for older women, and it's no coincidence that during the pandemic, they are starting companies in droves.

In this episode, Stacy shares her story in an authentic way her fans know and love. She shares her struggle to find her new place in this world and what it was like to experience a life-altering change that she wasn't prepared for. She shares the real story of running a startup as a CEO with no experience and how she's learning as she goes. Stacy's truth will resonate with so many, and the more we open up these conversations, the better we will all be.

Amy Shecter’s Journey From Fashion to Beauty Tech Start-up, Why Feeling Stuck in a Job Is a Choice and the Reason Great Leaders Are Forever Students Feb 06, 2022

Can you be a great leader and also show vulnerability? Amy Shecter thinks so. She believes that vulnerability is a key strength in leadership and that people are afraid to show it. Her ability to say, “There’s so much I can learn from you,” to not only major players in her network but also outside of it might be one reason for her success. She’s gone from traditional fashion roles to being CEO at four major companies. From Glamsquad to CEO of Ever/Body today, Amy is a bold visionary, nimble strategist, and inspiring organizational leader who has built businesses from the ground up. She’s known for her ability to revitalize brands and accelerate growth and profitability, whether for established companies or start-ups. Amy was named one of Entrepreneurs Magazine’s 100 Powerful Women of 2020. In this episode, Amy shares her journey and many transparent learnings. She shares the importance of working for what you want to accomplish and why you should never settle for a career path that you no longer have a passion for. As Amy says, being stuck in a job is a choice. Listen to her words of wisdom and model her tactics in your own career.

Alfredo Hurtado Wants You to Know That No One Cares About Your Brand and Why He Believes in Unapologetic, Fearless Marketing Jan 30, 2022

Alfredo Hurtado's LinkedIn bio declares him "The most dangerous man in the world." Back in the early days of Twitter, he became infamous as the "Bad Boyfriend." This man breaks every personal branding rule in the book. Still, his fearless marketing tactics have worked for the many brands he has worked on, including Bacardí, Calvin Klein, Cerveza Sol, Gatorade, and Hennessy, among many others. Today, he's the co-founder of Swordmaker Studios and the creative director of HOLY JOE, a Los Angeles-based streetwear brand. HOLY JOE was accepted into Licensing International's inaugural Diversity and Inclusion Accelerator Program in 2021 and is now one of the fastest-growing Hispanic-owned clothing labels. In this episode, we dive into what it means to be a bold marketer and have an unapologetic view of who you are and how you show up. We also talk about what happens when it backfires. Alfredo's tactics are not for the weak, but there is a lot to learn from someone who doesn't care what anyone thinks and has truly made it his own way.

Lindsey Pollak on the Pros and Cons of The Great Resignation, and Why No Matter What, You Should Always Leave a Company on a Good Note Jan 23, 2022

In case you missed it, as of November 2021, a record of 4.5 million people are just not that into working anymore. Today, The Great Resignation is still going strong but birthing a new trend of The Great Reimagination. People are rethinking their lives and the time they spend at work. Priorities are shifting, and many for the good. In this short and focused LEAVE YOUR MARK "snack segment," workplace expert and New York Times bestselling author, Lindsey Pollak, shares both the pitfalls and positives of The Great Resignation and what comes next. She shares her advice on how to leave a company on a positive note, why you should consider all factors before jumping the gun on quitting, the dangers of workplace trends, and the consequences of following them. Lindsey has worked with more than 50 corporations, law firms, conferences, and universities to help their individuals and organizations navigate and thrive in the ever-changing world of work. Her clients include Aetna, Citi, Estée Lauder Companies, GE, Goldman Sachs, Google, Pfizer, Verizon, Yale, Harvard, Wharton, and Stanford. Her accomplishments don't stop there. She was named to the 2020 Thinkers50 Radar List, serves as an official Ambassador for LinkedIn, is a spokesperson for The Hartford's "My Tomorrow" campaign, and the chair of Cosmopolitan magazine's Millennial Advisory Board.

Tamara Miller on How to Crush a Career in Sales and Why Persuasive Writing and Speaking Up in Meetings is the Key to Remote Work Success Jan 16, 2022

Would you ever take a risk and consider me? That was the question Tamara asked the hiring manager when she knew she did not have the qualifications for her first-ever job. Now, Tamara is an award-winning sales account executive. At Google, she leads cloud growth and adoption for Omnicom, a leading high-value agency where she is a strategic and effective partner to some of the world's most recognizable brands. She has built her reputation by driving business results by developing holistic data-driven solutions, a stellar personality, and the ability to understand that the secret to sales success lies in relationships. In this episode, Tamara shares her journey from ground zero with no experience but the will and motivation to do whatever it takes. She shares her insider tips on how to excel in sales and her tactics to effectively communicate, pitch a client, and unlock your customer's challenges.

Eve Rodsky on Why You Need to Give Yourself Permission to Be Unavailable In Order to Tap Into Your Unicorn Space Jan 09, 2022

Do you have permission to be unavailable? Eve Rodsky, New York Times bestselling author (and Reese's Book Club pick) of Fair Play, is back on LEAVE YOUR MARK with her new provocative book, Find Your Unicorn Space: Reclaim Your Creative Life in a Too-Busy World. In her book, Eve explores the cross-section between the science of creativity, productivity, and resilience. So what is unicorn space? It's the time you carve out for yourself without guilt and outside pressures to tap into your most creative self. Described as the ‘antidote to physical, mental and emotional burnout,’ Eve aims to inspire a new narrative around the equality of time and the individual right to personal time choice. In this episode, Eve shares her advice and details some of her inspirational tactics for setting new personal goals, rediscovering your interests, and cultivating your creativity. But more, she reminds you that finding your unicorn space benefits everyone around you while strengthening the relationship you have with yourself.

Jennifer Meyer on How to Achieve Your Dreams Even When You're Afraid to Speak Them Out Loud Jan 02, 2022

Jennifer Meyer was rising in the world of celebrity public relations when her then-boyfriend asked her a straightforward question, "What do you want to do with your life?" The question would lead Jennifer to admit something that she had never uttered before, her secret dream of wanting to be a jewelry designer. She decided to pursue her dream, pushing aside the fear of what she didn't know and all the reasons why she couldn't succeed. Today, Jennifer Meyer is living her dream as one of Hollywood's favorite jewelry designers.

In this episode, Jennifer shares her remarkable journey starting with the minute she graduated, and her Dad told her she had two weeks to get a job. She shares the importance of perseverance and following your dream, even if you don't think it's in your wheelhouse. According to Jennifer, if you have the confidence to bring your passions to the world, everything else can be figured out. Jennifer taught herself every aspect of her business, and her success reminds us that we all have a dream we are afraid to utter, so give yourself permission to say it out loud and go for it.

Callie Schweitzer Shares Insider Power Tips for Leveraging LinkedIn and Why You Need to Advocate for Yourself to Create the Job You Want Dec 19, 2021

LinkedIn is having a moment, don't you think? Callie Schweitzer might be the reason. As the Global Creator Programs Lead at LinkedIn, she oversees its Creator Accelerator Program, part of the platform's $25 million commitment to supporting creators. The pandemic has had significant impacts everywhere, but at LinkedIn, it has shifted the platform from a place where you simply have a profile to a community of generosity, learning, and real-talk. People have discarded the traditional ways of communicating and become more vulnerable, creative, personal and inspiring. In this episode, Callie shares how to hone your thought leadership, have the confidence to raise your hand for opportunities and seize white space for roles that don't exist. She also shares the importance of not discounting your experiences even if they do not fit the traditional professional view and why you should connect and interact often with people who have similar interests. Pro tip: If you are uncomfortable sharing, focus on amplifying others on LinkedIn!

Linda Dowds on Her Life as an Oscar Award-Winning Makeup Artist, Why You Should Never Be Afraid to Try Something New, and How Teamwork Makes the Dream Work Dec 12, 2021

Linda Dowds is an Oscar award-winning makeup artist for film and television. As Jessica Chastain's longtime makeup artist and collaborator, they have 16 projects together to date. Their most recent makeup collaboration (and Oscar win for makeup) is in The Eyes of Tammy Faye, in which Chastain plays 1970's televangelist Tammy Faye Bakker. Linda's other works with Chastain include her roles for the It franchise and X-Men: Dark Phoenix, among other films. Linda is a Hollywood veteran with experience working on film and television with some of the biggest names, including Hilary Swank, Woody Harrelson, Greg Kinnear, and Tom Hanks. In this episode, you will learn about Linda's amazing journey, what a day in her life is like (hint it's many many hours), what the pressures and the ins and outs of her role entail, how she collaborates with the talent and crew, and what Linda knows now that she wished she knew when she was starting out.

Elana Fishman on the Secrets of Celebrity News, Life as a Diehard Swiftie, and Why Success Means Bringing Ideas to the Table Dec 05, 2021

Elana Fishman is the first-ever New York Post "Page Six" Style Editor. In her role there, she covers everything in the world of celebrity beauty and fashion, from The Bachelorette to the Royal Family. Before joining the New York Post in 2018, she was the entertainment editor at Vox's now-shuttered shopping website, Racked, and worked at Lucky Magazine as deputy digital editor from 2011 to 2015. The New York University graduate also worked at Teen Vogue, Marie Claire, Fashionista.com, and People Magazine's StyleWatch. As a "shameless Swiftie," Elana takes her role as a hardcore Taylor Swift fan seriously. In this episode, Elana dishes on the style coverage secrets behind awards season, how she uses social media to convey her personal brand, why you need to offer to work across departments, and so much more.

Aliza Licht, Author and Host of LEAVE YOUR MARK, Shares Her Career Journey and the Lessons Learned Nov 28, 2021

This is my episode! My Sister, Ilana Yunis, Interviews me on all the things and we get super personal. This episode was so special. My sister Ilana and I are incredibly close and always have been. She's an attorney and also the founder of her fashion side hustle, @Splatterazzi. We are alike in many ways but also very different. Ilana is a fantastic host who asks all the right questions. I'm not going to lie; it was sort of like an interrogation. You may think you know my professional life, but you probably don't know my private one. From being pre-med in college to living The Devil Wears Prada Life, to becoming an entrepreneur, and back to corporate life again, there's so much that I share, and I hope you enjoy it!

Lizzy Savetsky on Influencing With Purpose, Owning Your Beliefs No Matter the Backlash, and Taking On Her New Role as Matchmaker Nov 21, 2021

Elizabeth, aka Lizzy, Savetsky lives her life out loud. As a digital fashion influencer, she uses her platform to express her style, share her adorable family, and educate her community on her deep-rooted beliefs. As the hilarious host of her new Instagram show, Bashert, she's setting out to help Jewish singles find love. On a more serious note, Lizzy is also a Jewish Activist, taking on complex and often polarizing issues with a strong emphasis on education and combating antisemitism. As Lizzy says, we all have the ability to wield influence, whether big or small, and she's using her platform to lend her voice to important issues close to her heart. In this episode, Lizzy shares the inner workings of her life as an influencer, being a working mom whose kids are part of the content strategy, and why you need to keep some of your creative energy for yourself. She'll share how she handles the heat when the comments get hot and why she will never stop standing up for what she believes in.

Dorie Clark on Why The Biggest Mistake You Can Make is Assuming People Know Your Story and How Looking for the Subtle "Raindrops" of Success Will Help You Play The Long Game Nov 14, 2021

Dorie Clark on Why The Biggest Mistake You Can Make is Assuming People Know Your Story and How Looking for the Subtle "Raindrops" of Success Will Help You Play The Long Game:

Dorie Clark wants you to know that everyone is too busy to think about you. Named the #1 Communication Coach in the world at the Marshall Goldsmith Coaching Awards, she preaches that if you don't take control of your narrative, no one will ever know your story. Her new book, The Long Game: How to Be a Long-Term Thinker in a Short-Term World, is a Wall Street Journal bestseller and rejects the relentless pressure in our culture that pushes us toward doing what's easy, what's guaranteed, or what looks glamorous in the moment. In The Long Game, she argues for a different path. It's about doing small things over time to achieve our goals. After all, everyone is allotted the same 24 hours—but with the right strategies, you can leverage those hours in more efficient and powerful ways than you ever imagined. In this episode, Dorie shares her tried and true tactics, how playing the long game can yield success, and why 20% of your time should be spent on speculative projects that have nothing to do with your day job. As Dorie says, when you're working toward something, you will not always see results right away. Sometimes it takes months or even years. You might think that it's not working, but the truth is it's just not visible. That's when Dorie advises looking for the raindrops--- the subtle signs of progress. Just like when you see the clouds forming and feel the first drop of rain, you know the rainstorm is coming.

Kristen Glosserman on Why If It's Not Right, Go Left and How to Begin, Focus and Commit to Build a Track Record of Trust With Yourself Nov 07, 2021

Everyone gets stuck sometimes. Many people are unsure where to take their next steps, whether it's a personal loss, an aimless career, or a difficult breakup. In her new book, If It's Not Right, Go Left: Practical and Inspirational Lessons to Move You in a Positive Direction, Kristen Glosserman — goal-setting strategist, life coach, and mother of four — offers inspiring and realistic guidance and direction, using examples culled from her own inspiring life.

In light of her own family tragedy and personal struggles, Kristen formulated a plan to regain sight of her goals. In this episode, Kristen takes us through the daily path she follows. A series of life lessons, including Begin, Focus, Commit; Love is a Choice; and Stay in Your Lane, guide this inspirational episode about the attainability of happiness. If It's Not Right, Go Left teaches that connection, communication, and collaboration bring the change needed to pivot towards one's achievable goals.

Tina Wells on Becoming Your Own Client, Walking Away to Do What Lights You Up, and Why If You Fail to Plan, You Plan to Fail Oct 31, 2021

Tina Wells created her marketing agency at the age of 16 because, as a young girl, she didn't feel that brands were speaking to her and her friends. For over two decades, she led Buzz Marketing Group, a full-service marketing and research company working to help clients like Dell, The Oprah Winfrey Network, Apple, P+G, Johnson & Johnson, and American Eagle, build lucrative relationships with youth markets. But in 2019, Tina decided to make herself a client and take stock of her own business. She decided to dismantle her agency, opting to pursue the work that lights her up-- creating content that speaks to tween girls. The multimedia content venture RLVNT Media was born in 2020, serving entrepreneurs, tweens, and culturists with authentic representation. This venture houses her newsletter, Elevation Tribe, a community and quarterly publication created to help women launch, grow and lead their businesses focusing on women of color. Tina is also the author of seven books, including the best-selling tween fiction series Mackenzie Blue, its spinoff series, The Zee Files, and the marketing handbook, Chasing Youth Culture and Getting It Right. Her mission is to help tween girls that look like her feel seen.

In this episode, you'll learn how Tina made the hard decision to look at her own business and re-evaluate how she was spending her time, how to leave the things that don't work, outsource things you're not good at, and make sure that your vision and purpose guides the path no matter where it brings you.

Alisa Cohn on the Importance of Having Executive Presence, Building Your Social Capital and Why You Need a Vision Board Oct 24, 2021

Gravitas, communication, and appearance are three areas that Alisa Cohn, the #1 Start-Up coach in the world, focuses on. And before you get up in arms about the idea of judging appearance, think of it from the perspective of "playing the part." Alisa coaches both founders and executives alike on how they show up as leaders. She has worked with C-suite executives at prominent start-ups (such as Venmo, Etsy, Draft Kings, The Wirecutter, Mack Weldon, and Tory Burch) and Fortune 500 companies (including Dell, IBM, and Microsoft). Google, Pfizer, and The New York Times to name a few.) With 20 years of experience, she's dumped all her wisdom into her new book,From Start-up to Grown-up.

Whether you're a founder, a corporate executive, or hope to be one day, this episode is full of insider advice on everything from Alisa's tactics on how she built her initial client base to how she coaches her clients on leadership. Alisa speaks to what they need to be effective and how to handle self-doubt, failure, and anxiety. She stresses the importance of grit and resilience and why building your track record as someone good to work with can open a host of opportunities.

Tiffany Dufu on Why You Need to Surround Yourself With People Who Know Your Goals and Will Hold Your Feet to the Fire Oct 17, 2021

In her own words, Tiffany Dufu was placed on this earth to advance women and girls. As the CEO and founder of The Cru, Tiffany brings together small groups of women who help each other achieve personal and professional goals. Tiffany's book, Drop the Ball, encourages women to embrace imperfection and cultivate the ability to let go. As a mentee to many, counting even "Auntie" Gloria Steinem (who wrote the foreword to her book) as a mentor, Tiffany believes that the most crucial skill you can have is knowing how to ask for help. Tiffany shares powerful words of wisdom in this inspirational episode, including reminding people that when someone opens the door for you, run through it as if your life depends on it- and closing the loop on where that introduction led! She shares the importance of making sure you surround yourself with people who know your goals and will hold your feet to the fire, getting clear on what matters most, and recognizing that courage is feeling the fear and doing it anyway.

Mark Herschberg on Why Hope is Not a Career Plan and the Essential Skills for Success That No One Taught You Oct 10, 2021

Mark Herschberg has tracked criminals and terrorists on the dark web and created marketplaces and new authentication systems. With a long career as a CTO, he has launched and developed new ventures at startups and Fortune 500s. But one thing Mark realized along the way is that success doesn't just lie in being to find the right answer; it lies in being able to communicate it to others. His journey to master emotional intelligence in the workplace led him to help start MIT's "career success accelerator," the Undergraduate Practice Opportunities Program, where he teaches annually. In his book The Career Toolkit, Mark shares ten chapters that deliver the essential skills no one ever teaches you. From how to nurture relationships both inside and outside your company to successful negotiation and job interviews, Mark's lessons arm readers with top skills, professional advice, and an understanding of the modern workplace's— often overlooked— interpersonal dynamics— everything you need to be successful in your career.

Corey duBrowa on Learning From the World's Greatest Founders and Why Your Success Lies in How You Create It for Others Oct 03, 2021

How many people do you know who have had the opportunity to work for Phil Knight, Bill Gates, Howard Schultz, Larry Page, Sergey Brin, and more?

This week I'm proud to share the 100th episode of the LEAVE YOUR MARK podcast. When I thought about who could possibly be my 100th guest, I looked no further than Corey duBrowa, Vice President of Global Communications and Public Affairs at Google. I first learned about Corey when he was SVP Global Communications at Starbucks (a role he held for almost eight years). As a former publicist myself, Corey has always been the gold standard for communications executives. With more than 20 years as a communicator of ideas, Corey has long been considered one of the top corporate communicators in the US. He just topped PRWeek's 2021 US Power List, ranking #7 out of the 50 communications leaders. In this episode, you'll learn how Corey has been able to radically shift between industries, the great learnings he has absorbed from the founders he has worked for, and why he wakes up every day excited to start again.

Tyler McCall from Intern to Editor-In-Chief of Fashionista, Learning When Not to Speak Up, and Life as Gossip Girl's Resident Expert Sep 26, 2021

Tyler McCall has established herself as an indispensable fashion figure. As a staunch proponent of inclusive sizing years before it was the norm, Tyler's main focus has been on the issues which are changing and shaping the fashion business to be more inclusive. With extensive knowledge of fashion, pop culture, and beauty, Tyler is the Editor-In-Chief of Fashionista.com, a website regarded as one of the most influential voices covering fashion news, criticism, and career advice for the industry and influential fashion-focused consumers. She's come a long way from her days as an undergrad at the University of Florida, where she used to leave comments on the site religiously. She now continues to leave her mark, expanding readers' minds on what can be fashionable beyond the typical margins of the industry.

Prior to being the Editor-In-Chief at Fashionista.com, McCall spent most of her career rising in the ranks at the platform. From being an intern, editorial assistant to senior associate editor, Tyler's fashion interest eventually led her to a brief experience as Digital Fashion Editor at Teen Vogue and Social Media Manager at Vogue, before returning back to Fashionista.com as Deputy Editor. During her climb, she learned some valuable lessons, all of which she shares in this episode.

As a loyal fan of Gossip Girl, she now channels that dedicated energy into #WaldorfWednesdays, a recurring series dedicated to Blair Waldorf's style, and #SerenaSaturdays, devoted to Serena van der Woodsen's style on her Instagram. After becoming an expert on the subject, she was invited to lend a hand when the show rebooted, proving that your fan passion can lead to unique opportunities.

Amy Errett on Radical Transparency and Intimacy for the Company Win, Recognizing that One Door Closing Opens Another, and Promising Yourself Not to Repeat Bad Patterns Sep 19, 2021

Amy Errett's multifaceted career has ranged from founding and operating companies to investing in startups to volunteer nonprofit leadership. But then she left it all to create Madison Reed, an omnichannel beauty brand that is challenging industry titans in the hair color space. Noticing that women only had two options when coloring their hair - Purchase a low-quality, cheap box from a drugstore or go to an expensive salon, Amy aimed to create an innovative option. But where Amy is truly innovating is in the way she leads her company. With the mantra that employees can bring their whole selves to work and a policy of openness and sharing where the entire company has lunch with Amy and coffee with Amy weekly, she's building a culture that's more like a family than anything else. Not to mention she's paying her colorists as salaried employees who don't have to rent their chairs like the rest of the hair color industry and also receive full benefits. When her stores closed during the pandemic, she continued to pay them, moved them all over to the call center, and taught them new skills.

Prior to founding Madison Reed, Amy was a General Partner responsible for the Bay Area office of Maveron; a leading venture capital firm co-founded by former Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz - focused on investments in consumer facing companies. Before Maveron, Amy was CEO of Olivia, where she repositioned the travel business as a complete lifestyle company and also where she was delivered her biggest career blow. Amy is the proof that women belong at the top. Amy founded Madison Reed with over 30 years of business and operating expertise as a four-time entrepreneur, venture capitalist and social-mission visionary. In 2015 and 2018, Amy was named one of the "Bay Area's Most Influential Women in Business" by the San Francisco Business Times. She was also a finalist for Ernst & Young's Entrepreneur Of The Year® 2018 Award in the Northern California region, which she won in 2006 for the consumer category. She was also featured on Fast Company’s first ever Queer 50 list of LGBTQ women and nonbinary innovators in business and tech in 2020. In this episode, Amy shares her truths in both her failures and successes. If you want a tutorial on how to be a leader and inspire greatness, this is the episode for you.

Lisa Maynard-Atem From Harrod's Social Media Maven to Using Her Digital Superpowers to Support Black Representation and the Difference Between Quitting and Knowing When to Walk Away Sep 12, 2021

When Lisa Maynard-Atem started as the first-ever social media strategist at Harrods, she had her work cut out for her. Over 7.5 years, she took their following from 30,000 to over 2.5M, making them one of the most followed luxury department stores in the world - their Instagram channel went from zero to 1.1M under her leadership. As happy and successful as she was, Lisa is generally uncomfortable with being comfortable, and she decided to head out on her starting The Social Word, her consultancy. But as the daughter of a Father who works for the UN and a Mother who is a charity worker, Lisa grew up knowing that giving back to society would be her true calling. Her personal experience with racial discrimination and George Floyd's murder made her realize that she wanted to do something more meaningful with her digital superpowers. Today, as the Managing Director of Black United Representation Network CIC (BURN), she's a passionate campaigner who works tirelessly to support black business and black representation focused on the economic and social empowerment of the Black community in the UK. In this episode, you'll learn about Lisa's experience with racism, how she handled it, and how she's paying her experience forward, why she's not comfortable being comfortable, and why you need to drown out the noise and focus on what matters.

Steven Kolb on Why Relationships are Your Career Currency, How to Transfer Your Skills to Another Industry and What it Takes to be a Designer Today Sep 05, 2021

A self-described "accidental fashion drone," the idea of working in fashion never really seemed to be on Steven Kolb's radar. Today, Steven is the Chief Executive Officer of the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA), the trade association for the American fashion industry. He oversees all operations for the American fashion industry's group of 500 designers. He manages CFDA's membership, activities, and philanthropic efforts such as Fashion Targets Breast Cancer, disaster relief, and HIV/AIDS. In this episode, Steven shares the importance of cultivating relationships and making an impression that lasts even when you're not in the room. As a somewhat shy person, Steven has always favored playing number two and knowing his function in any given situation. He also reminds us that no matter how senior you get, sometimes you have to tell yourself that you're in the room because you belong there. Steven recommends taking stock in what you're good at, knowing what you don't know, and not being afraid to ask questions. We also dive deep into the fashion industry right now, the changes that have come since the pandemic, and what it takes to make it as a designer today.

Tracey Baker-Simmons From Waitress to Hollywood Producer and Why Everything You Need to Know You Can Teach Yourself Aug 29, 2021

Tracey Baker-Simmons met L.A. Reid and Babyface while waitressing at Houstons in Atlanta. She had no clue who they were. They handed her their Amex to pay for the bill, and she saw that they had a production company. She asked if they were hiring, and they invited her to come to the studio. That chance encounter landed her an internship where she would begin the process of learning the ropes of production. It was the early 90's in Atlanta, and while she had a degree in marketing and finance, she had no experience or formal education in what her future career would be. Leaning on the power of books and her own resourcefulness, Tracey taught herself everything she needed to know and asked the right questions. As a firm believer in saying yes and figuring it out later, Tracey is proof that if you take a chance on yourself, you just might win. Today as a 25-year entertainment industry veteran and seasoned television producer, Tracy Baker-Simmons is one of television's most prolific and industry-forward innovators, earning titles such as the pioneer of urban reality television. With content such as the Bravo reality series Being Bobby Brown, MTV2's Sprite Step-Off, and the biopic Bobbi Kristina, Tracy has proven her ability to create content that both resonates well with viewers and pushes the culture forward. Note: When she pitched Bobby Brown a reality show she had never produced one before and fun fact: he was in jail at the time! In fact, the only blueprint at the time was The Osbournes. Currently, she works under her production company, Baker Simmons Media. She also recently launched an educational platform Reality TV Decoded, which launched its first master course, Making Reality TV. In this episode, you will learn that determination and curiosity can get you everywhere and why if you invest in yourself, you can push beyond what you don't know and be unstoppable.

Barbara Barna Abel on How to Nail That Audition (or Interview!), the Character Trait They're Looking For and the Benefit of Being a Little Different Aug 22, 2021

If you have a story to tell and want to use your authentic voice to share it, Barbara Barna Abel is the woman for you. Since launching her casting and talent development company, Abel Intermedia, in 2001, Barbara has worked on over 100 unscripted/alternative projects and jump-started the careers of many prominent figures. As a seasoned media & communications coach, talent & executive development expert, and casting director in the entertainment industry, Barbara knows what it takes to make an impact and stand out. Her clients include television networks, PR firms, athletes, models, celebrity chefs, business executives, and young creatives. Her credits include the groundbreaking RuPaul Show on VH-1, Queer Eye for the Straight Guy, and What Not to Wear. In this episode, Barbara shares the tricks of the trade and what makes a great audition. Fun fact: what makes a great audition is the same thing that makes a great interview and breaking news; it starts the minute you walk into the building. As Barbara says, be memorable and delightful. Leave the room better than you found it. Even if you don't land the gig, you'll make an impression that may pay dividends in the future.

Darcy Miller on Making That "Fork in the Road" Career Decision and Why She Wants You to Celebrate Life's Everyday Moments Aug 08, 2021

Leading celebrations expert, Darcy Miller, grew up in a house where both of her parents were artistic, and "making things" was a daily occurrence. But their artistic passion was never about being hardcore crafters but more about celebrating life and everyday moments. Their mantra was D.I.T. (Do it together) versus D.I.Y. as creating memories, was always the driver.

Darcy's mom worked for Diana Vreeland, and her after-school activities included being dragged to the MET. She would watch them work on the MET shows while she did her homework. That creative environment left an impression on Darcy that would inspire her future career. She, of course, didn't know that at the time. Beginning her career early, Darcy flexed her artistic muscle as a college entrepreneur, but after college, she was faced with a fork in the road decision: Interview to be Anna Wintour's assistant OR become the assistant to Martha Stewart, who was launching a start-up magazine. Going with her gut and following her crafting passion, she went on the road less traveled and has never looked back. Today, Darcy is the founder of Darcy Miller Designs, culminating over twenty-five years of cultivating and creating inspiration and ideas for all things celebrations.

In this episode, you will learn to view every day as a celebration and why capturing those memories builds the foundation for long-term happiness and meaningful relationships. Darcy also shares how to choose the right path when you're faced with more than one direction and so much more.

David Yi on Helping Others Realize Their Power, Never Letting Anyone Dim Your Light, and Pushing Past Self-Doubt Aug 01, 2021

David Yi grew up in the only Korean family in his small town of Colorado Springs. From a very young age, he felt othered and knew that one day, he would spend his time celebrating and uplifting others. After working as a fashion editor, reporter, and stylist in New York for ten years, David decided to use his extensive knowledge of beauty and became the Founder & editor-in-chief of Very Good Light and the co-founder of Good Light, a beauty brand that celebrates beauty beyond the binary. It's a gender-inclusive, vegan, and cruelty-free skincare line created as a response to the hypermasculine/hyperfeminine divide in the beauty industry. In this episode, David authentically shares his story, struggles, and self-doubts and how he overcame them. He details how he manifested his book and why he is focused on helping others realize their power. Living by the mantra that you need to remember when you wished for what you have now, David proves that he has found his light and is helping others find theirs too. LEAVE YOUR MARK listeners can try Good Light beauty product with a special buy one get one FREE offer by using ALIZA on goodlight.world.

Kate Doerge on Taking a Chance on Yourself (Even if don't have the experience), Why You Should Say Yes to Every Meeting, and the Reason to Never Burn Bridges Jul 18, 2021

Life is short. Kate Doerge learned that early on. Now, after more than 25 years of working for other people, she's taking the plunge into entrepreneurship. As Principal of Kate Doerge Consulting (KDC), Kate is betting that her more than two decades of brand-building and communications experience can help prestige consumer brands and investors unlock value at all stages of the investment process.

When Kate left her role as partner of Paul Wilmot Communications after 21 years of experience, she thought that she left her network behind. A chance meeting that she almost didn't take pushed her outside her realm and comfort zone and landed her as Head of Marketing at iStar. Without that experience, she doesn't believe she would have founded KDC today.

In this episode, you'll learn how Kate channels her physical fitness challenges to inspire her professional risk-taking and how it taught her that she could do anything she sets her mind to with that same passion. She'll share how she tackles goal setting as her own boss and how with a mantra of never burning bridges, she is now tapping into her network to invite them on her journey. You will learn why your network is not a pile of business cards but relationships that need to be nurtured. You'll also understand why every conversation is worth having, even when you don't see the value at the time.

Ruthie Friedlander on the Benefit of Saying Yes to Everything, The Gift of Magical Mentors and Why You Should Never Have to Face Your Demons Alone Jul 11, 2021

Since she began working in the fashion industry over a decade ago, Ruthie Friedlander has established herself as someone to know. As the CEO/Founder of At Large Agency, she helps brands navigate the convergence of content and growth. Ruthie's prior experience has shifted over the years from iconic fashion brands like Chanel and The Row to major editorial roles at ELLE.com and InStyle.com. She started her career as the assistant to media entrepreneur Dan Abrams.

But along her journey, Ruthie came face to face with her demons, ultimately hitting rock bottom and then coming out the other side. As the co-founder of The Chain, a non-profit peer support network for women in fashion, media, & entertainment who are struggling with or recovering from an eating disorder, she is building a community where no one has to struggle alone. In this episode, Ruthie shares her story, life lessons, and aspirations, all with sincerity and humor.

Jackie Giusti Seaman on What it Takes to Make a Brand Coveted Today, How a Leader Can Inspire Greatness, and Why Her Guiding Principle is Polite Persistence and Persuasion Jul 04, 2021

When Jackie Giusti Seaman was clipping headlines from newspapers during college at Villanova and analyzing what the story could be as a communications major, she knew this would be her career. Fast forward to today, and she is doing exactly what she set out to do—as the Vice President of Global Communications at Stuart Weitzman, overseeing Public Relations, Celebrity and Influencer Integration, Paid Publisher Advertising Partnerships, and Wholesale Marketing. For most of her 15 years at Stuart Weitzman, her primary role led the brand to its celebrity status and association under the Founder and brand's namesake leadership.

In this episode, you will learn about loyalty and passion for working for a brand and Founder you genuinely believe in. You will see why the willingness to roll up your sleeves and do whatever it takes makes you indispensable. You'll learn what it takes to make something buzzy in Hollywood, and the answer will surprise you. On the corporate front, you will also learn Jackie's tactics for understanding when you should speak up or not speak up, which is an underrated skill in managing complicated issues at work.

Alyssa Rosenheck on How to Use Visualization to Create the Life You Want and Why You Need to First Say Yes to Yourself Before the World Can Say Yes to You Jun 27, 2021

Alyssa Rosenheck was working hard, climbing the corporate ladder in a Fortune 100 company, when she was diagnosed with cancer at the age of 32. Reevaluating her life, this diagnosis sparked a career change when photography became her healing catharsis. What started as a simple need to photograph her home for sale became a pioneering shift in an antiquated corner of the photography world.

Alyssa is now a celebrated stylist, speaker, and architectural and interiors photographer with over 900 features of work regularly found on the pages and sites of the world’s leading shelter and lifestyle publications, including Architectural Digest, Elle Decor, HGTV Magazine, and PEOPLE. She works with clients who are designers and architects to communicate their brand and expand their digital footprint. She has helped grow many small businesses over the years.

Her book, The New Southern Style, is a vibrantly illustrated exploration of 30 designers, artists, celebrity chefs, authors, and creative entrepreneurs who are reinventing Southern culture, along with tips for styling and soulful thoughts for living a creative life. The images and stories are meant to bring light and inspire stillness in a world that never stops to reflect. But as Alyssa will tell you, she needed to face her shadows before stepping into the light. As one of the only Jewish families in Tulsa, Oklahoma, she faced discrimination and ridicule. On top of that, Alyssa's childhood was emotionally and financially unstable. She hopes this book will inspire creative courage.

In this episode, Alyssa shares her secrets to a holistic self-care approach, how to use fear as a tool for your own empowerment and why you need to reframe your inner dialogue and why you need to release in order to receive the gifts life has to offer.

Lydia Fenet on Why You're the Most Powerful Person in the Room When You Sell as Yourself Jun 20, 2021

As the Lead Benefit Auctioneer at Christie's Auction House and Global Managing Director of Strategic Partnerships, Lydia Fenet knows firsthand that being an effective salesperson is what distinguishes top achievers in all fields from the rest of the pack. She has led auctions for more than 600 organizations and raised over half a billion dollars for over 400 nonprofits worldwide.

Lydia's widely acclaimed book, The Most Powerful Woman in the Room Is You: Command an Audience and Sell Your Way to Success, equips you with the essential tools of the trade and reveals Lydia's strategies behind her revolutionary sales approach so that every reader feels empowered to tap into their own power and achieve results in any setting. She is currently writing her second book, The Most Confident Woman in the Room is You.

Having developed key skills over a fifteen-year career on stage, Lydia is a keynote speaker and travels internationally lecturing on topics ranging from women's empowerment, unlocking sales potential, and empowering teams in the workplace. She was named one of New York's most influential women by Gotham magazine and has been featured in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, Crain's, Elle, and has appeared in Vanity Fair, Women's Wear Daily, Vogue, and Town & Country.

In this episode, Lydia shares her tips on how to sell anything using a clever combination of intelligence, personality, and humor. She explains why you should get your foot in the door of your dream company and worry about the role later, see the positives in every task (even being the company's paper shredder!) and how to make sure you get paid what you're worth.

Margi Conklin on the Role of Editor and Why Getting Fired Can Be the Best Thing That Ever Happens to You Jun 13, 2021

Margi Conklin is the former editor of the New York Post's award-winning Sunday edition. She is a storytelling expert who's previously set the editorial agenda at some of the world's most famous brands in both the US and UK, including ELLE, InStyle, the Daily Mail, and Harper's Bazaar.

In this episode, Margi shares her editorial journey, complete with the highs and lows of rising to Editor-in-Chief, being fired, and even dealing with sexual harassment from a former boss. She authentically shares her learnings from being forced to push past her comfort level, how she rewrote her own story, and why, in her free time, she is helping women tell their stories pro bono.

Ariel Foxman on Knowing When to Leave the Party, the Value of Your Reputation, and Using Your Voice Responsibly on Social Media Jun 06, 2021

Ariel Foxman is a writer, editor, and content developer with over two decades of experience and a thorough understanding of what makes a story compelling, journalistic, and ultimately memorable. Currently, he consults with luxury retail clients on their content and brand messaging strategy and pens ABBAPAPA, a mission to support fathers and non-traditional families, born of his experience as a new gay Dad. In addition, he is a contributing editor to Vanity Fair, with his words also gracing the pages of countless other titles. Ariel has an impressive track record helping lifestyle and fashion brands tell their stories effectively. He has a talent for giving people what they want and expect from a brand in new and innovative ways, giving them what they don't yet know they want and finding ways to place the brand in surprising and delightful new spaces. As the former editor-in-chief and only male editor of InStyle, he led the brand to earn numerous awards and distinctions. Ariel is also a powerful voice and board member for GLAAD and has been recognized by his peers, listed on BofF's Fashion 500, Out Magazine's Annual Power List, and The Advocate. In this episode, Ariel shares his story with impactful lessons on when to recognize when a role or environment is not serving you or your goals. We also discuss the importance of not letting anyone slow down your innovation, what it means to leave a monolithic brand and pave a new and exciting road on your own, knowing that you have that experience behind you to guide the way.

The Queen of Barre, Elisabeth Halfpapp, on Creating a Movement Not Once, Not Twice, But Three Times May 30, 2021

Elisabeth Halfpapp has had an incredible journey in the fitness industry. She is one of the founders of the Barre movement with over 40 years of teaching and teacher training. As a sought-after authority and expert in the field, celebrities like Cameron Diaz, Heidi Klum, and Kate Hudson turn to Elisabeth when it comes to toning their body, especially their legs, bum, and abs. After two decades of growing the Lotte Berk Method, Elisabeth and her husband, Fred DeVito, decided to create their own method. In 2002, they became the founding partners of Exhale and took the business from dream to reality with 25 units in 11 markets. But in 2019, they decided to start over again. So with the monumental changes of the pandemic, they started Core Barre Fit, a new fitness movement that they've started from scratch on their terms. In this episode, you will learn what it means to truly have passion for what you're doing, how to get your team behind your movement, and what it means to start over three times. With positivity and excitement, Elisabeth and Fred are creating a movement for the third time with the same zest and passion they had over 40 years ago.

Madison Utendahl on What Drives Successful Content Today, the Importance of Trusting Your Gut, and Why Asking for Help is a Strength May 23, 2021

Madison Utendahl is the founder and CCO of Utendahl Creative, a Black-owned, female-founded and female-led, storytelling-first, branding, content & social media consultancy. Since its launch, Madison has worked with Refinery29, Milk Bar, Bandier, and has been featured in The New York Times, W Magazine, and Forbes. Prior to launching her company, Madison was a creative on the founding teams of three powerful cultural phenomenons: Last Week Tonight with John Oliver, 29Rooms, and Museum of Ice Cream, where as the head of content & social media, she earned two Webby Awards and grew their digital presence to an audience of over 1 Billion people in under 20 months. She's also been recognized in Forbes 30 Under 30. In this episode, Madison shares her tactics for a successful content strategy today, what metrics matter most to her, and why she believes that everyone has a story to tell. She will also share her 24-hour rule, why you should not argue for your limitations, and the reason you should trust the timing of your life.

How to Master the Art of Strategic Communication with Media Trainer and Public Speaking Coach, Jillian Straus May 16, 2021

Are you a passionate and persuasive communicator? Whether you're presenting in person or on zoom, connecting with your audience to deliver your message effectively is the key to success. Jillian Straus is a 20-year media veteran and the founder and principal of Straus Strategic Communications. She is a Swiss army knife of media training.

With an astute ear for content and presentation, Jillian understands where you need to go and how to get you there. She is a media consultant, presentation trainer, and speechwriter for CEOs of the world's largest e-commerce companies, executives of Fortune 500 companies, founders of successful startups, professional athletes at the top of their game, A-list celebrities, and best-selling authors.

In this episode, you'll learn tactical tips on how to master what she calls the three C's" of effective communication and her top five secrets of being a great communicator. In addition, she will share how to leverage the power of storytelling, authenticity, and transparency and how to use your voice to influence others, memorably tell your story, and control the narrative.

Visual Artist, Jade Purple Brown, on Trusting the Process and Knowing That Your Season Will Come May 09, 2021

You may not recognize Jade Purple Brown's name, but chances are you have seen her work, which is featured as Adobe's splash image for Illustrator 2021. Jade is a New York–based visual artist who uses strong figures, vibrant colors, and messages of optimism in her graphic design, illustration & art direction. She has created art for major brands globally, including Apple, Facebook, Sephora, TikTok, and NYC Pride, to name a few.

Jade was on track to become a stylist, attending the Illinois Institute of Art in Chicago for fashion marketing and management. However, in her final year, Jade learned how to use graphic design tools like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign and fell in love with them. Pursuing this love, after graduation, she spent six months creating her portfolio. She made up imaginary artist mentors and began modeling the way they presented themselves. Self-taught, Jade's work stood for itself, and she landed a full-time art director role. Eventually, Jade built up her clientele and skills, breaking away from her day job to pursue her entrepreneurial goals.

In this episode, Jade will share how she intuitively learned to trust the process, launched her business, gets creative, deals with burnout, client load, and copycats. With advice well beyond her years, she shares sage insights on how to prepare for the moment your season comes. As Jade says, things don't necessarily happen in the minute you want them to, but you better be prepared for when they do!

Karla Welch on Styling Hollywood's A-list and the Secrets of the Red Carpet Apr 25, 2021

Karla Welch was named one of Hollywood Reporter's Top 10 Stylists of the Decade. As the founder and owner of x karla, and the founder of the premium styling app Wishi, Karla is one of the most visionary and loudest voices in Fashion, especially on issues that matter- using her platform to shine a light on social injustice. In this episode, you'll learn the secrets behind the red carpet, how to bring yourself to the next level, why you shouldn't downplay your success, and how to hold onto hope.

Stacie Henderson on Treating Your Company Like Your Name is on the Door, Identifying Voids, and Proactively Taking on Challenges to Claim Your Value Apr 18, 2021

Stacie Henderson has loved marketing and computer programming since her teenage years in Kansas City. The CIA recruited her in college for computer programing, but her love of fashion drew her to pursue an MBA in Fashion Management at Bocconi in Milan. Fast forward, and Stacie's passion for bringing technology to retail and brands has resulted in an extensive resume with 15 years in luxury and retail, developing dynamic growth strategies that blend online and offline tactics. Currently, Stacie is the Head of E-commerce, Digital, and Consumer Experience at Tod's Group, with previous roles at Versace, Ferragamo, and Westfield. In this episode, you will learn what it means to innovate within a corporate structure, how to make yourself indispensable, and why listening is a superpower.

Sasha Charnin Morrison on the Dangers of Entitlement, Giving Up Your Dream Job, and the Legacy of Her Father, Martin Charnin, Creator of Annie Apr 11, 2021

Fluent in Kardashian & Lagerfeld, fashion industry veteran Sasha Charnin Morrison has made her mark in the field as a stylist, style director, and pop culture connoisseur for the last 30 years. She has styled everyone from Jennifer Lopez to the Real Housewives of New Jersey and has been a fashion director everywhere from Harper's Bazaar to Allure to Us Weekly. Currently, she is the style director at CBS WATCH! Magazine. Her book, Secrets of Stylists: An Insider's Guide to Styling the Stars is the little black book of styling where she shares top styling secrets on creating unforgettable looks and advice on landing a choice job.

In this episode, Sasha recounts her rise in fashion, incredible stories from the heyday of fashion, and why she got fired from Vanity Fair. Hint: it has something to do with Carolina Herrera's puppies. She shares the lessons she gratefully learned early and why she ultimately walked away from her dream career to prioritize a life well lived with her family.

Sharon Ainsberg on Identifying White Space & Creating Your Future, the Key to Successful Talent Partnerships, and How Her Sleep Obsession Led to Her New Start-Up @Bedfully Mar 28, 2021

Sharon Ainsberg's career began in the music industry, working with award-winning composer Philip Glass on recordings with artists ranging from David Bowie to The Rolling Stones. She then managed talent, working with veteran music manager Louis Levin on everyone from AC/DC to Michael Jackson. But during that time, she saw white space in the industry. Why didn't musicians have fashion or beauty deals? Where was that co-branded marketing? This was when Sharon's obvious fashion obsession became too great to ignore.

As a pioneer in brand and talent partnerships, Sharon created the music and entertainment division at Ford and the VIP services division at Starworks before launching her own company in 2012. Sharon co-founded SHO+CO with Allison Oleskey, a bi-coastal fashion, lifestyle, and entertainment agency focused on celebrity and influencer initiatives, including product placement, collaboration deals, and talent booking for everything from global events to ad campaigns.

In this episode, you will learn how Sharon identified a void in the industry and ideated how to fill it, why creating trust in relationships will lead to long-time collaboration, the importance of respecting the team around the talent, and her expert methods in negotiating partnerships.

Susan McPherson on Reigniting the Lost Art of Connecting to Achieve Happiness and Success Mar 21, 2021

The most powerful question in the world is, "How can I help you?" These are the words that Susan McPherson is known for. Susan is the founder and CEO of McPherson Strategies; a communications consultancy focused on the intersection of brands and social impact. As a serial connector, Susan's first book, The Lost Art of Connecting: The Gather, Ask, Do Method for Building Meaningful Relationships, is the much-needed reminder that sometimes more than skills, success lies in the relationships we build and nurture. But when we are more physically distant than ever before—how can we reverse the growing trend of disconnection to forge meaningful connections in business and life? In this episode, Susan answers this question. She shares her secrets on how to be a serial connector to create a meaningful constellation of connections around you based on intention, shared interest, and helping others.

Lindsey Pollak on Five Ways to Recalculate Your Career Right Now Mar 14, 2021

Lindsey Pollak was told in her first job interview that her master's degree in women's studies would get her nowhere. She is now considered one of the country's leading experts on careers, the workplace, and the Millennial generation. Lindsey is a New York Times bestselling author of four books and one of the world's leading career and workplace experts. Her new book, Recalculating: Navigate Your Career Through the Changing World of Work, is rich with tactical moves that you can make right now. In this episode, Lindsey takes us through her five rules for recalculation, how to assess your strengths so you can apply them in a new direction, the secret to communicating effectively across different aged colleagues, and why you need to make your make more visible.

The Legendary Simon Doonan on Why Your Work Ethic is the Key to Success Mar 07, 2021

If you've ever walked down Madison Avenue and past Barneys New York, you've experienced the magic of Simon Doonan. Considered a fashion industry legend and the world's most famous window dresser, Simon served as the creative head behind Barneys's renowned and unconventional window displays, which won him many awards, including a CFDA Award. He then became the creative director of Barneys New York and then served as their creative ambassador-at-large. Over the past 45 years, Simon has added best-selling author and TV personality to his resume. He has written over ten books on various aspects of style and culture: his newest book delves into Keith Haring's life, the revolutionary artist from the '80s. But Simon's glamorous adult life today is a far cry from how he grew up in England. In this episode, you will learn about Simon's incredible journey, how he found his creative calling, and why he credits his mother's work ethic as the secret to his success.

Donald Robertson AKA @drawbertson on Why Your Biggest Ideas Aren't Big Enough Feb 21, 2021

Donald Robertson, better known as @drawbertson, went from Art School failure to Fashion's favorite artist. Known as the Andy Warhol of Instagram, his impressive career spans decades of roles that anyone would dream of having. In his early Canadian days, he worked on a tiny brand that no one had ever heard of called M.A.C. He spent years as a creative director going through Hearst's revolving door and later on lunching with the big wigs in the infamous Conde Nast cafeteria. Throughout it all, Donald has maintained his childish instincts and willingness to do absolutely anything. And he is not shy about poking harmless fun at some of Fashion's biggest players. In this episode, you will learn how Donald ideates his big creative ideas, why if you feel good about presenting an idea, it's probably not big enough, and the reason you need to be comfortable selling yourself "lemonade stand" style no matter how successful you get. Donald shares his journey with contagious humor and humility, with lessons that anyone in any industry will learn from.

Ann Shoket on Why the Only Way Out is Through, Leaning on Your Squad to Achieve Goals, and Living Life on Your Own Terms Feb 14, 2021

New Power Media's Ann Shoket wears her intentions on her sleeve. Every year she chooses a "word of the year" as a reminder for the goals she wants to achieve and then creates a bracelet with that word on myintent.org. In Ann's world, failure doesn't exist. It's the experience, and the lessons learned that matter. In this episode, you will discover her tactics for goal setting, how to achieve what she has coined a "Big" life, complete with the freedom to live life your way. Ann shares how to get value out of any experience and lessons on picking yourself back up after rejection, time and again, to reach that north star eventually.

The Original Mad Woman, Ginny Bahr, on Retiring After 69 Years at Wunderman Thompson and Witnessing the Ad Industry's Evolution over Seven Decades Feb 07, 2021

Like most businesses, the advertising industry has changed in many ways over the past seven decades - and Ginny Bahr has seen it all first hand. With 69 years of consecutive service, she is the original Mad Woman and the longest-serving employee at J. Walter Thompson, now known as Wunderman Thompson. Ginny's got spunk, clever wit, and spirit (think Betty White!) and at 93 is retiring not because she has to, but at her family's request that she take the time to slow down, just a little. Unlike other guests on LEAVE YOUR MARK, Ginny has already left her mark. In this episode, Ginny shares the secret to her longevity, how the industry has changed over seven decades, and the lessons she hopes to impart.

Raman & Jessica Kia on Building Havly, a New Towel Brand That Supports a Better Future for Special Needs Children Jan 31, 2021

Jessica and Raman Kia are marriage goals. As the co-founders of RJK Project, a new towel brand called Havly, and parents to three children, including two with Autism, they give new meaning to the word hustle. Both digital marketers by trade, Raman, and Jessica have worked with some of the world's best brands. But as successful as their special ops marketing agency is, they always dreamed of creating their own brand, something sustainable that could ensure their boys' stability and security into adulthood. In this episode, you will learn how they became their own client and used their marketing superpowers to build Havly. They share how they balance work, start-up life, parenting during the Pandemic, and take turns running the daily relay race of life. Their relationship and passion for building a better future for their children are inspiring. One dollar from every Havly towel supports donorschoose.org, earmarked to fund the projects of special education teachers.

Samantha Ettus on Why Nothing Is Sexier Than Being Financially Independent and How to Live Fully in All the Slices of Your Life With Zero Guilt Jan 24, 2021

Samantha Ettus knows how to win, and she has spent her life showing other women how to achieve success and balance in each facet of their lives. After graduating from Harvard and Harvard Business School, Samantha founded Ettus Media Management, a personal branding firm. She soon realized that many executives she worked with didn't know how to optimize their work-life balance, so she became an expert on the subject. Pivoting away from her company, she became a best-selling author and spoke to thousands of women about the challenges they faced reentering the workforce, getting a more lucrative job, or balancing having a family and succeeding in a career. But being an author wasn't enough for her. Recognizing that men dominated the credit card processing industry, she decided she wanted to do more than offer advice and inspiration to women. She wanted to help them to achieve financial independence. In 2018, she launched Park Place Payments, an award-winning company that has revolutionized the credit card processing space. To date, she has helped hundreds of diverse women previously left out of the workforce find new careers despite having no financial experience. In this episode, you will learn the tactics Samantha recommends to live a full life in every slice of your life, why there's no room for guilt, and how to empower anyone to believe that they are unstoppable.

Bevy Smith on Why It Gets Greater Later, the Beauty of Not Fitting a Mold, and How to Rebrand Yourself Jan 17, 2021

Bevy Smith was my first guest on LEAVE YOUR MARK, and she's back with even more humor and incredible insights. In her new inspiring book, Bevelations: Lessons from a Mutha, Auntie, Bestie, she captures her experience transitioning from a fashion advertising executive into a media personality, all while living a big, authentic, and unapologetic life. But what happens when everything you've wished for comes true and yet doesn't make you happy? In this episode, Bevy discusses the lessons of her new memoir, Bevelations. The book is no holds barred- just like Bevy. This episode is full of inspiring and worthwhile lessons on living an authentic life at any age. In her fifth decade, Bevy is living her best life yet, and as she says, it gets greater later.

Jyothi Rao on Rewriting the Playbook, What Brands Can Learn From a Social Media Backlash, and the Relationship Between Empowerment and Accountability Jan 10, 2021

Jyothi Rao was in her twenties when she realized that her nomadic life was unusual. Having lived on four continents before the age of 20, Jypothi credits her success to being adaptable to change. As the president of INTERMIX since 2014, she is responsible for crafting the brand's vision and developing the overall business strategy. In this episode, Jyothi shares why you learn the most when you go through the worst of times, why you should think of your career as a jungle gym more than a ladder, and how every experience allows you to collect superpowers. We also discuss what it's like to weather a major social media backlash, what you can learn from it, and the importance of standing up for what you believe in.

Elizabeth Harrison on Why PR is Still a Drug, How to Be an Agent of Change and the Trick to Staying at the Top of Your Game Jan 03, 2021

Over two decades ago, Elizabeth Harrison found herself as the cover story of the December 1998 issue of New York magazine, titled Power Girls. The issue uncovered a new crop of power publicists. Today, she is listed in The Observer's PR Power 50. As a lifestyle expert and CEO, she leads H&S, a full-service agency known for setting the benchmark for groundbreaking, press-worthy experiences. In this episode, we go on Elizabeth's personal journey through her storied and exciting career. From the heyday of magazines and PR, how to create buzz today, manage a crisis, and the tactics she employs to keep her clients like American Express and Booking.com world-class. Most importantly, though, we go deep on her mission to set the standard for a diverse and thriving culture at her agency and how she's taking on corporate America to do the same.

Fat Mascara's Jennifer Sullivan From Beauty Editor to Full-Time Podcaster, Why She'll Try Anything Once, and the Next Big Trend in Beauty Dec 27, 2020

Starting her beauty career as a cashier at a perfume store in West Philly, Jennifer Sullivan has made a name for herself in the beauty world as co-host of the award-winning beauty podcast Fat Mascara. But what happens when you have a crossroads career moment? How do you decide between the safe past and a bet on the future? Jennifer Sullivan decided to pass on a significant offer and plunge head-first into podcasting, a full-time role she could never have imagined. In this episode, we dissect the making of a successful podcast, how Jennifer and her co-host, Jessica Matlin, have applied their magazine editorial principles to their show format and recorded over 250 episodes to date. Jennifer shares tips on finding your voice, the importance of consistency, listening to guests and knowing your audience. We also uncover the myth of clean beauty, the social bonding aspect of sharing beauty regimens, and Jennifer's desert island must-haves. Plus, what she knows now that she wishes she knew before.

Carrie Kerpen Shares the Secrets of the "Mental Mute Button," Why You Need a Personal Advisory Board and the Importance of Being Likeable Dec 20, 2020

Carrie Kerpen is a digital thought leader, and the co-founder and CEO of Likeable Media, an award-winning digital agency. With her husband Dave Kerpen, they masterminded one of the biggest social media stunts in 2006 that made national headlines-- their wedding. The couple exchanged vows in a sponsored wedding that generated $20 million in earned media, $100,000 in sponsorships, and $25,000 in donations. Their happy sponsors prompted the birth of their social media company. As the author of WORK IT: Secrets For Success From The Boldest Women In Business, Carrie has crowd-sourced a personal advisory board, and shares all the secrets she's learned to crushing your career.

NY Times Best-Selling Author, Nicole Lapin, on How to Rock Your Finances and Break into a New Industry Dec 13, 2020

No one likes managing their money, but money expert and New York Times best-selling author of "Boss Bitch," "Rich Bitch," and "Becoming Super Woman," Nicole Lapin, makes it easy. In this episode, Nicole transparently shares her broken childhood, personal debt story, and ultimately, her tricks of the trade. She teaches the small choices you can make to start saving and building wealth. To be clear, this is the opposite of a boring finance lesson! Nicole shares her insights honestly and comically. Learn how to manage your finances and break into a new industry without experience. Listen to how Nicole faked it 'til she made it and mastered the "language" of money so that the next time you say, "Yes, boss," you're saying it in the mirror.

Ashley Murphy on Checking Your Ego at the Door and What Modern Marketing Means Today Dec 06, 2020

Ashley Murphy is LEAVE YOUR MARK'S first Rising Star interview, nominated by her boss, Katie Welch. Ashley is currently the Director of Integrated Digital Marketing at Rare Beauty, the mission-driven beauty brand founded by Selena Gomez to reduce the stigma associated with mental health. In this episode, you will learn why sometimes you need to take what you can get, why you should be relentless with your follow-up (within reason!), why no role is too big or too small, and how the more you take on, the more face-time you will get with management. We will also dive into how she built an organic community of millions for a beauty brand and what modern marketing means today.

Ravi Abuvala on Giving Up Your Dream to Pursue a Different Path, Why Attention is Currency, and How to Scale Your Business With No Overhead Nov 29, 2020

Ravi Abuvala never wanted to be an entrepreneur. His Dad's cancer diagnosis led him to move back to Atlanta for eight months. Spending all day in the hospital made him realize that life is short, and even though it had been his dream to go to law school, he wasn't convinced that the time and financial debt were really worth it. He decided to ditch his longtime plan and start his journey toward an online business. With no digital marketing experience, he took an online course and then decided to bet on himself. Today, he is the 26-year-old founder of Scaling With Systems, a business accelerator that scales companies through digital marketing and teams of virtual assistants. In the past 14 months, he has scaled 2, 7-figure businesses with less than $1,000 of his own capital and four commission-based employees. He has worked with over 500 firms around the world and placed 630 virtual assistants. In this episode, you will learn about the benefit of attending masterminds and how to create a profitable business from day one by ensuring product-market fit. You will understand why you should empower your team to function like mini CEOs, the brilliance of power-blocking your time and so much more.

Elizabeth Holmes' Many Thoughts on Royal Style, Ditching Your Professional Identity and Doing Whatever It Takes to Get Your Foot in the Door Nov 22, 2020

After more than a decade as a reporter at WSJ, Elizabeth turned her fashion expertise to royal fashion, documenting her many thoughts in her popular Instagram series "So Many Thoughts." In her first book HRH: So Many Thoughts on Royal Style, she analyzes the fashion, branding, and positioning of the four most influential members of the British Royal Family. In this episode, you will learn how Elizabeth started her career, took a significant title cut to land her dream job, and ultimately made the daunting decision to leave it all when she felt her growth was stagnant. Elizabeth and I have a long history together, and this episode is a joyous trip down memory lane for both of us!

Tammy Tibbetts on Not Letting Anyone Define Your Limits, Blowing Up Expectations, and Creating the World You Want to Live In Nov 15, 2020

Tammy Tibbetts was voted "Most Shy" in her high school yearbook and felt the pressure of perfectionism for too long. But as the Co-Founder and CEO of She's the First, a global nonprofit that teams up with local organizations to make sure girls are educated, respected, and heard, she has become an advocate for crushing the expectations society places on women and is helping them explore the potential hidden within. With her new book, Impact: A Step-by-Step Plan to Create the World You Want to Live In, Tammy shares how she created a movement with her co-founder, Christen Brandt, from the ground up. She's the First supports 9500 girls in 11 countries and 200+ student advocacy chapters. Proceeds from the sales of Impact support She's the First's philanthropic initiatives. In this episode, you will learn what inspired Tammy to start She's the First, how she balanced her day job with her nonprofit side hustle, why she challenged herself to channel the voice she never had growing up, and how you can make a difference starting NOW.

Jenna Andrews From Recording Artist to Creative Powerhouse, How She's Tackling Mental Health in Entertainment, and Why She Will Never Stop Hustling Nov 01, 2020

Jenna Andrews is a multidimensional talent who works as a label executive, vocal producer, songwriter, and A&R consultant. She now has a a new career high with her first No. 1 as a songwriter, thanks to the latest smash from BTS, “Butter.” Jenna has worked with some of the biggest names in the music industry, including Drake, Jennifer Lopez, Little Mix, Tori Kelly, and Jessie, and renowned producers including Diplo, DJ Mustard, Max Martin, and Stargate. Jenna co-wrote with singer/songwriter Benee, "Supalonely," which has produced over 10 million TikTok videos and has massed over 125 million streams on Spotify alone. In this episode, you will learn the behind the scenes of the music industry, Jenna's story and rise to the top of her game, and why she believes that no matter how big you get, you should never stop doing the important things yourself.

Stacy London on Reinventing Yourself, Surviving Personal Crisis, and Why It's Essential to Live in the Present Oct 25, 2020

I started this podcast just a little over a year ago. After over 50 episodes, Stacy London's episode is currently the number one episode on LEAVE YOUR MARK, and honestly, it couldn't have happened to a better person. This episode originally aired in Season 2, but so many new listeners probably haven't gotten to it yet! Plus, it's that good that it deserves a replay. Stacy London started her career at Vogue and was the co-star of TLC's "What Not to Wear," for a decade. She has styled some of Hollywood's biggest names. She's also an author, spokesperson, and now the founder of Small Beautiful Things. Now in her fifth decade, she's starting her second act. From surviving a severe eating disorder, personal financial crisis, and grief, Stacy is embarking on her reinvention. In this episode, you'll learn why she thinks it's no longer about taking one step in life but instead doing the cha-cha. Stacy believes that the world is not linear, and your path doesn't need to be either.

Nancy Davis on Breaking Barriers, Making an Impact and Removing Toxicity From Your Life Oct 18, 2020

As a very active and adventurous individual, Nancy Davis was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis at 33. She was told she would be "lucky" to operate a TV remote control again and that she would lose mobility. She was also told that there would never be a drug to alleviate the symptoms. Nancy could not accept this and was determined to find a cure. As the founder and chairwoman of Race to Erase MS, over the last 27 years, she has raised over $51 million in contributions. They have funded MS research grants and programs totaling over $30 million, which have resulted in countless breakthrough drugs. In this episode, you will hear what it's like when a disease threatens to take over your life. You will learn how Nancy started this movement and the strategic ways she got diverse and unrelated teams to collaborate to make an enormous impact.

Deepti Sharma on Staying Focused on a Mission, Why You Need to Collect Failures, and How to Benefit From Your Critics Oct 11, 2020

Deepti Sharma is a champion for the underrepresented. As the CEO and Founder of FoodtoEat; Deepti is simultaneously building a community-minded catering concierge service that connects immigrant women and minority-owned food vendors to growth opportunities, while also teaching corporations to use their purchasing power wisely. Deepti is also a Co-Founder of Bikky, a platform solving customer engagement for restaurants. In this episode, you will learn why focusing on your core mission will always steer your business in the right direction, how Deepti leverages her critics to her advantage, and how she uses her failures to shape strategy.

Meredith Fineman on How to Master the Art of Fearless Self-Promotion and Unlock Career Opportunities Oct 04, 2020

Your accomplishments are worth talking about, irrespective of seniority. Whether you're an introvert or an extrovert, learning how to speak about them strategically is how you get ahead. Meredith Fineman is a professional development expert and the founder of FinePoint, which specializes in personal profile raising and helping young professionals and leaders find their voice. She is also the author of BRAG BETTER: Master the Art of Fearless Self-Promotion. In this episode, you will learn how to share your wins and leverage your accomplishments. You will hear Meredith's simple and anxiety-proof strategies that have helped her clients effectively communicate their achievements and skillsets to others, and you'll learn why bragging is so difficult, when not to brag, and how to prepare for the inevitable ups and downs of visibility.

Beatrice Dixon on How to Transition from Side Hustle to Start-Up, Why You Need to Think Big, and the Value of Your Team Sep 27, 2020

As the Founder & CEO of The Honey Pot Company, Beatrice Dixon is leaving her mark on the world of feminine healthcare. As one of the first 40 women of color to raise one million in venture capital, Beatrice is a powerhouse who has gone from a slew of various careers to becoming a successful entrepreneur. Like most Founders, Beatrice needed to solve her own health problem first. In this episode, you will learn the A-Z of how Beatrice built her company, her tricks to getting covetable retailer shelf space, how to raise money, and her counter-intuitive advice to Black founders.

Mary Kate McGrath on How to Create a Content Strategy & Build Your Audience Anywhere Sep 13, 2020

How do you build a community of brand evangelists and customers today? Now more than ever, whether you're a solo entrepreneur or a company, your audience is the key to your success. No one knows how to build an audience better than Mary Kate McGrath. Mary Kate McGrath is the former Chief Content Officer of Gary Vaynerchuk's Gallery Media Group and the current Chief Operating Officer at Some Spider Studios. In this episode, we go deep into the must-do's and don't do's of building a content strategy today, the secrets to growing your audience, where you need to be, why you need to test, and how to ideate the creative to keep your audience engaged and loyal.

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Kelly Rutherford on Gossip Girl's Lily van der Woodsen, the Secret to Happiness, and Why the Only Way to Empower Yourself is to Shift Your Focus Sep 06, 2020

With a career over three decades-long, Kelly Rutherford needs no introduction. Showcasing her acting skills in many well-known roles, she has played iconic characters such as Lily van der Woodsen on Gossip Girl and Megan Lewis on Melrose Place. In this episode, you will learn how Kelly channels love and light in her life's darkest times and how her work ethic of simply showing up and grabbing every experience has led her to unlock countless opportunities. This conversation is a delightful and eclectic mix of her journey from Kentucky to Hollywood and what her life on Gossip Girl was like. You'll hear about how Lily van der Woodsen came to be, what she thinks about the upcoming reboot, and, most importantly, why she believes that happiness is really about focus and that the only way to empower yourself is to shift your perspective.

Jennifer Justice on Why No is More Powerful Than Yes, How to Secure Your Seat at the Table, and Why You Need to Take Credit For What You Have Done Aug 30, 2020

Jennifer Justice is one of the most respected entertainment attorneys and executives in the industry. Known for being Jay- Z's personal attorney for 17 years, she, later on, was instrumental in building Roc Nation. In her new mission as CEO & Co-Founder of The Justice Department, Jennifer is laser-focused on advocating for women and finding their power through management, legal counsel, and strategy. In this episode, you will hear the story of a woman who unapologetically did it herself, why you shouldn't be afraid to ask for anything, why being competent is more important than being likable, and how being underestimated can be a superpower.

Pulitzer Prize Winner Robin Givhan on Carving Out Your Niche, Growing a Thick Skin, and What Makes a Great Pitch Aug 23, 2020

Robin Givhan is the longtime fashion critic of The Washington Post. She covers Fashion from a business, entertainment, and cultural phenomenon point of view. She is the first and only fashion writer to ever receive the Pulitzer Prize for Criticism, an honor she received in 2006. She is also the author of The Battle of Versailles and Michelle: Her First Year as First Lady. In this episode, you will learn about Robin's journey from rookie reporter to one of the most respected journalists today, how to handle criticism, what makes a good pitch, and her biggest "PR" pet peeves.

Sandra Campos on Perseverance, Why Experience Matters More Than Your Title, and the Trick to Accomplishing Your Goals Aug 16, 2020

When you're named a top 100 Latina Leader and a 2020 Top Woman in Retail, you've done something right. Sandra Campos has helped build consumer-led global fashion lifestyle brands for over twenty years for everyone from DVF to Selena Gomez. Her new venture, Fashion Launchpad, is a digital educational platform for the fashion, beauty, and retail community. As a single mom, Sandra knows the myth of work/life balance all too well. In this episode, you'll learn about Sandra's journey as a first-generation Mexican-American from Texas to the runways of New York, why experience is king, how to leave and break back into an industry, and so much more.

Ara Katz on the Career Pivot, the Secret to Selling Your Idea, & Why You Shouldn't Be Attached to Your Professional Outcome Aug 09, 2020

Ara Katz thrives on the career pivot and being at the forefront of whatever she is doing. Imagine starting a successful career as a film producer, leaving to embark on consumer tech for ten years, and then pivoting again to start a company focused on bacteria and probiotics? Now, as the Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Seed, she's making gut health cool. In this episode, you'll learn the power of storytelling, why your success lies in how you package your idea, and why you need to meet people where they are.

Tai Beauchamp on How to Create a Personal Manifesto, Making Fear Your Friend, and Using Privilege to Lift Black Lives Jul 26, 2020

Tai Beauchamp is an internationally recognized style influencer, award-winning producer, activist, media personality, and co-founder and chief brand officer of CBD wellness & beauty brand, BROWN GIRL jane, centering around women of color. In this episode, you'll learn how to define your purpose, why you need to tune other people out, and the merits of doing the work to get to the next level. You'll also hear our perspectives on Black Lives Matter and Anti-Semitism.

Drew Elliott on Creating NOWstalgia, Dissecting Pop Culture and How to Get Your Audience to Love You Jul 19, 2020

Drew Elliott is the Senior Vice President, Global Creative Director, at M·A·C Cosmetics, leading all strategy, conceptualization, and execution of the creative process that drives their global image. As a life-long student of pop culture, Drew is fascinated with dissecting the social graph and analyzing what drives fame. In this episode, you will understand Drew's unique ability to tap into our cultural zeitgeist to engineer content that drives demand, why NOWstalgia matters to brand longevity and the importance of entertaining your audience.

Sophie Elgort on Why You Need to Be an Original, What it Takes to be a Successful Photographer, and How She's Championing Diversity Behind the Lens Jul 12, 2020

Sophie Elgort is a photographer, filmmaker, and artist who has been featured internationally. She has worked with global brands and clients like Kylie and Kendall Jenner, and of course, her brother Ansel. As the co-founder of the non-profit, Through Our Lens, Sophie provides mentorship to teen girls of color, giving them the all-important access and the tools they need to get photography experience. In this episode, you will learn what it takes to be an image creator, why critique classes are essential to your craft, and why she believes in lifelong learning.

Marigo Mihalos on How to Be a Talent Whisperer, Why Your Life Mantra Should Be, "Why Not?" and How to Create Meaningful Work Relationships Jul 05, 2020

Marigo Mihalos is the senior director of talent relations for SiriusXM Radio, booking film and television stars for all talk and entertainment channels. Some of her biggest bookings include: Julia Roberts, Jennifer Lopez, and Ryan Gosling. In this episode, you will learn her pitching tactics, how she masters her Rolodex, makes talent happy, and doesn't take no for an answer. Marigo's traditional Greek values have shaped who she is and where she's going. Learn why her passion and secret to success is creating lasting relationships and making other people's dreams come true.

Joey Gonzalez on Going From Barry's Client to CEO, His Lifelong Mission of Diversity & Inclusion, and Why You-Versus-You is the Only Competition You Need Jun 28, 2020

As a Midwestern LGBTQ child and the son of two immigrants, Joey Gonzalez's childhood was not without its challenges. From a young age, he dreamt of a world of inclusiveness. Beginning as a child actor, later on, Joey struggled to find career direction. After giving up acting and becoming an office temp, Joey discovered Barry's, a local LA hole in the wall concept of fitness. Fast forward to becoming CEO in 2015, Joey's story is the quintessential rise through the ranks. In this episode, you will learn where hard work takes you and what a core mission of diversity and inclusion yields.

Jamie Gutfreund on the Future of Marketing, Why Non-Linear Thinking is a Superpower, and Being Tenacious Even When You're Uncomfortable Jun 21, 2020

Jamie Gutfreund is a unicorn marketer, renowned futurist, and trend spotter. She thrives in uncharted territories, keeping companies ahead of the curve by anticipating cultural shifts and integrating them with emerging technologies. She's also a recognized expert on Millennial and Gen Z consumers. With experience at Hasbro, Wunderman, CAA, and Microsoft, Jamie has paved new roads in every role she's held. In this episode, you will learn what it means to be a true catalyst, why she calls herself an "Idea Agent," and what happens when you step out of the workforce to raise kids.

James Aguiar on Why Failure is Success, What Your Personal Style Says About You, and If You Don't Have Something, Make it Jun 14, 2020

For 25 years, powerhouse tastemaker James Aguiar has brought a fresh stylized eye to every project in his career path. Coming to New York with $200 in his pocket and a dream, his first job was sweeping cigarette butts off the floor at a NYC night club where he saw Andy Warhol talking to Keith Haring. From that moment, he knew there was more to his future than what his upbringing "on the wrong side of the tracks," showed him. There are so many life lessons in this episode, starting with the idea that it's not just about being one thing, and that experience is really your best teacher.

How to Negotiate Anything with Alexandra Carter, World-renowned Negotiation Trainer for the United Nations and Best-Selling Author of ASK FOR MORE May 31, 2020

Do you know how to ask for more? Well, meet Alexandra Carter, best-selling Author of ASK FOR MORE: Ten Questions to Negotiate Anything. Alexandra is the Director of the Mediation Clinic at Columbia Law School and a world-renowned negotiation trainer for the United Nations. Her new book is #3 on WSJ's Best-Seller list. In this episode, you will learn the art of negotiation, the difference between mirror and window questions, and how learning to negotiate effectively will unlock all your future opportunities. This episode is essential learning no matter what stage of your career you are in!

Karissa Bodnar on Building Thrive Causemetics With True Purpose, Not Waiting For Acceptance, and How to Make Your Customers Your Greatest Influencers May 24, 2020

Karissa Bodnar is the Founder & CEO of Thrive Causemetics. At 25 years old, Karissa set out to create a brand that is bigger than beauty. Now 30, Karissa has built a company with philanthropy at its core. Thrive Causemetics has donated over $100 million in funds and products to women's charities in its five years of existence. In this episode, you will learn how Karissa gave up on being accepted by beauty industry standards and didn't quit even after two years of zero sales, the reason she hired a full-time therapist for her 70 employee team, and how she pushed through her fears.

Simone Oliver on Disrupting the Status Quo, Seizing White Space Opportunity, and How to Make Your Idea a Reality May 17, 2020

Simone Oliver is the Global Editor-in-Chief of Refinery29. She's an adjunct professor at S.I. Newhouse and was previously the Strategic Partner Development Manager for Global Media Partnerships at Facebook and Instagram, and the Growth Strategy Editor at The New York Times, a company she worked at for 12 years. Simone has disrupted the status quo within corporate structures throughout her career. In this episode, you will learn about how she single-handedly seized white space opportunities, why working cross-functionally is a superpower, and the reason listening to your audience is more critical than data alone.

Lauren McGoodwin Spills the Secrets of Job Hunting During a Recession, How to Make Your Side Hustle Real, and Resisting the Career Trap of Compare and Despair May 10, 2020

Lauren McGoodwin is the Founder and CEO of Career Contessa and author of the book, Power Moves: How Women Can Pivot, Reboot, and Build a Career of Purpose. Knowing firsthand what it's like to job search in a recession, Lauren started her company as a side hustle. As a career expert helping over 5 million women a year and former recruiter, Lauren spills the tea on how to get a job right now or start a new venture. Learn about the hidden job market, how to hack your job search, manage toxic colleagues, network effectively, and make your power move right now.

Karla Welch on Styling Hollywood's A-list, Why She Cares More About Healthcare Than Couture, and the Importance of Being Loud and Proud May 03, 2020

Karla Welch was named one of Hollywood Reporter's Top 10 Stylists of the Decade. As the founder and owner of x karla, and the founder of the premium styling app Wishi, Karla is one of the most visionary and loudest voices in Fashion, especially on issues that matter- using her platform to shine a light on social injustice. In this episode, you'll learn the secrets behind the red carpet, how to bring yourself to the next level, why you shouldn't downplay your success, and how to hold onto hope.

Cate Luzio on Betting on Yourself, Learning How to "Walk it Off" and Getting Comfortable With the Uncomfortable Apr 26, 2020

After a two-decade successful career in finance, Cate Luzio decided to bet on herself and become an entrepreneur. As the Founder and CEO of Luminary, she self-funded a collaboration hub for women who are passionate about professional development and expanding their networks. In this episode, you'll hear how Cate mastered the "boys club" of finance, created her own "whisper networks" and wrote the business plan for Luminary in a week. You'll also learn the importance of socializing your ideas, how to develop a thick skin, and why you shouldn't apologize for being the boss.

NY Times Best-Selling Author, Eve Rodsky, on How to Play Fair With Your Partner, Finding Your Why, and The Dangers of Invisible Work Apr 19, 2020

In FAIR PLAY, Eve Rodsky rips apart the fallacy that women should be “doing it all” and lays bare the truth: Many wives and mothers feel overextended and overworked from shouldering the brunt of childrearing and domestic responsibilities. FAIR PLAY identifies the 100 main tasks in any relationship and then shows how to divide those tasks fairly. In this episode, you will learn why you need to pursue your passions and tap back into your unique self- the one that was vibrant and shining before taking care of the kids took over.

Mickey Boardman on Body Positivity, Why Not Fitting in is a Blessing, and How the Best Stuff Happens When You Stick it Out Apr 12, 2020

Mickey Boardman is the longtime, iconic Editorial Director of Paper Magazine. Responsible for the 2014 Kim Kardashian naked magazine cover that broke the Internet, his creativity knows no bounds. His columns "Ask Mr. Mickey" and "Fat & All That" are fan favorites. In this episode, you will hear Mickey's incredible story, from Chicago to Spain, and Parsons School of Design to Rehab. Learn why Mickey believes that not fitting in is a blessing and why the most important thing you can know is what you don't.

How to Become a Full-Time Influencer With YouTuber Tim Dessaint's Step-by-Step Guide to How He Grew Organically from 0 to Over 500,000 Subscribers Apr 05, 2020

Tim Dessaint is a menswear YouTuber in London who decided right after college that the corporate world was not for him. He launched a YouTube channel in 2018 and went from 0 to 70,000 subscribers in six months. He now has over 554,000 subscribers on YouTube, 1.8 million on TikTok and more than 287,000 followers on Instagram. In this episode, Tim shares the steps he took to become a full-time content creator with little investment. It's never been a better time to get creative and build your personal brand through owned channels, and this episode will teach you how to grow organically even in the current state of the world and social media.

Rebecca Minkoff on Why Mentors Are Not Your Shortcut, the Myth of Work/Life Balance, and How to Tackle Office Bullying Mar 31, 2020

Rebecca Minkoff is more than the co-founder and creative director of her namesake company. She is a champion of women, dedicated to bringing them together to enact positive change. As the founder of the Female Founder Collective (FFC), Rebecca and FFC's mission is to enable and empower female-ownedand led businesses to impact their communities, both socially and economically. In this episode, you'll learn what it takes to build a designer brand from scratch, why it's essential to learn more than just your job, and why you need to work for what you want.

Stacy London on Reinventing Yourself, Surviving Personal Crisis, and Why It's Essential to Live in the Present Mar 22, 2020

Stacy London started her career at Vogue and was the co-star of TLC's "What Not to Wear," for a decade. She has styled some of Hollywood's biggest names. She's also an author, spokesperson, and now the founder of Small Beautiful Things. At 50, she's starting her second act. From surviving a severe eating disorder, personal financial crisis, and grief, Stacy is embarking on her reinvention. In this episode, you'll learn why she thinks it's no longer about taking one step in life but instead doing the cha-cha. The world is not linear, and your path doesn't need to be either.

Tech Expert, Lance Ulanoff, on Becoming an Authority on Anything, Why Your Name Needs to Mean Something on its Own and the Art of Modeling Behavior Mar 15, 2020

Lance Ulanoff has spent more than three decades on the leading edge of the tech publishing industry. As an award-winning tech journalist and social media commentator, Lance is the go-to guy for emerging tech. Currently, the editor in chief of Lifewire, with previous leading roles at Mashable and PC Magazine, Lance makes frequent TV appearances on Live with Kelly and Ryan, The Today Show, and Good Morning America. In this episode, you'll learn the importance of building your personal brand, why he tweets all day, and how deep comprehension can lead to success. If you are tech-obsessed, there is no one better to listen to than Lance.

Kara Goldin on How to Get Experience Without Experience, Why You Need to Hire People Better Than You and How Mentorship Goes Both Ways Mar 08, 2020

Kara Goldin is the Founder of Hint and the author of UNDAUNTED. She solved her own addiction to Diet Coke and ended up creating a multi-million dollar healthy lifestyle company. As a renowned entrepreneur, Kara is included in Fast Company's Most Creative People in Business and Fortune's Most Powerful Women Entrepreneurs, among many other honors. Kara credits her athletic childhood and endless curiosity to her business prowess. In this episode, Kara shares her fearless tactics of knocking down doors, how to get experience when you have no experience, and when to know you've got them hooked and shut up and listen!

Marc Balet on a Decade With Andy Warhol, Why Listening Is the Key to Great Work, and the Importance of Delivering on What You Promise Mar 01, 2020

Does your major mean anything? The answer is no, and especially not when an opportunity to work with Andy Warhol presents itself. At 22 years old, Marc Balet won the Prix de Rome in architecture and was offered a solo show at the Whitney Museum of Art. But despite his exceptional talent, Marc had no interest in being an architect. Clueless as to what he wanted to do, he couldn't find a job. Through a fortuitous meeting in Rome, Marc befriended the renowned writer, Fran Lebowitz, who pushed Marc to ask Andy Warhol if he could be the art director at Interview magazine. Andy said yes, and the rest, as they say, is history. From working at the Factory to launching the careers of some of the most significant fashion talents in the world, you'll hear the incredible stories of a time gone by. This episode is like going back in time in the most magical way. You will feel what it was like to be a creative under the Father of Pop Art. You'll learn why listening is the key to great work, how nothing beats in-person presentation, and why you need to deliver on what you say you will. PSA: Check out this episode's post on Instagram @alizalichtxo for an amazing visual aid!

Rhonesha Byng on Seizing the Power You Have Over Your Destiny, Focusing on What You Can Control, and Lifting Others While You Climb Feb 23, 2020

Rhonesha Byng is an Emmy-winning journalist and the Founder and CEO of the award-winning website Her Agenda and the founder of the soon-to-be Hurston House, a work and community space centered on women of color. Before age 30, Rhonesha was named 50 Founders to Watch By ESSENCE Magazine, 28 Under 28 by NBCBLK, and one of 29 People to Know by BET. In this episode, you will learn Rhonesha's motivating story of true grit and ambition. She will share her secrets to getting in "the room" even when the doors were closed, why you can't be what you can't see, and how important it is to tell your story over and over again. One of Rhonesha's mantras is "No One Slows Her Agenda." Rhonesha believes that you don't get what you deserve, you get what you ask for, but it's essential to lift others while you climb.

Mandana Dayani on Pursuing the American Dream, Hustle as a Way of Life, and Making Voting Cool Feb 16, 2020

Can voting be sexy and cool? Mandana Dayani, the Creator and Co-founder of I AM A VOTER thinks so. This lawyer and former agent and president of Rachel Zoe, is taking her experience and network and aiming to create a cultural shift around voting and civic engagement. As a religious refugee who fled Iran as a child, Mandana's story is especially poignant. She considers herself blessed to be able to pursue the American Dream. In this episode, you will learn the true meaning of hustle and why you need to vote!

Ross Martin on the Power of Potential, and Why You Should Disturb the Universe and Run Toward Fear Feb 09, 2020

From Lady Gaga to Malala, and Google to Disney, Ross Martin has worked with everyone that matters. As an Emmy & Peabody award-winning marketer and innovation leader, he is the President and CXO of Known and ranked among Fast Company's 100 Most Creative People in Business. In this episode, you will enter the brain of a marketing genius, someone who was bullied growing up and didn't want to be seen. This episode is especially inspiring. It will make you think in a totally new way.

Luxury Executive Recruiter Kristy Hurt Shares Every Single Secret to the Hiring Process Jan 27, 2020

Kristy Hurt is the executive recruiter you need to know. As the founder of Kristy Hurt Consulting, she has more than 20 years of experience working with brands in luxury, fashion, and beauty. In this episode, you can expect to learn about what recruiters are really searching for, why they won't respond to your emails, the trick to negotiation, how to rock the interview process, write a killer resume, and so much more. If you're job hunting or hiring, this is a must-listen.

Mindy Grossman on Resilience, Transformation, and Why You Should Never Waste a Good Crisis Jan 23, 2020

Serena Williams calls Mindy Grossman inspiring, and Oprah calls her Wonder Woman. As the former CEO of WW (formerly Weight Watchers), Mindy is a renowned leader with more than 38 years of experience in transforming brands, including Nike, HSN, and Ralph Lauren. Mindy has been named to TIME Magazine's 50 Most Influential People in Health Care, Fast Company's Most Creative People in Business, and many more. Her episode is beyond inspiring. The magic she makes wherever she goes is extraordinary.

Aliza Licht from Pre-Med to Fashion, the Making of DKNY PR GIRL and Leaving It All to Become an Entrepreneur Jan 17, 2020

This is my episode! My Sister, Ilana Yunis, Interviews me on all the things and we get super personal. This episode was so special. My sister Ilana and I are incredibly close and always have been. Just for color, she's an attorney and also the founder of her fashion side hustle, @Splatterazzi. We are alike in many ways but also very different. Ilana is a fantastic host who asks all the right questions. I'm not going to lie; it was sort of like an interrogation. You may think you know my professional life, but you probably don't know my private one. There's so much that I share, and I hope you enjoy it!

Carrie Kerpen Shares the Secrets of the "Mental Mute Button," Why You Need a Personal Advisory Board and the Importance of Being Likeable Jan 11, 2020

Carrie Kerpen is the co-founder and CEO of Likeable Media, an award-winning digital agency. With her husband Dave Kerpen, they masterminded one of the biggest social media stunts in 2006 that made national headlines-- their sponsored wedding which generated over 20 million media impressions. Their happy sponsors prompted the birth of their social media company. As the author of WORK IT, Carrie has crowd-sourced a personal advisory board, and shares all the secrets she's learned to crushing your career.

Marjorie Gubelmann on Being a Single Mom, Becoming a World-Class DJ at 43, and Why You Need to Show Up for Your Friends Jan 05, 2020

Can you rediscover a passion at 42 and make it a career? Marjorie Gubelmann is proof you can. In college, Marjorie was known as her DJ alter ego, "Mad Marj," but becoming a DJ was not a respectable career choice for the time. One day, at age 42, her friend dared her to DJ his party. As Marjorie reconnected to her passion, she courageously blended all the lessons from motherhood, divorce, and corporate leadership into a new chapter, secretly going back to school, and ultimately becoming a world-class DJ.

Happy Holidays and a Personal Message From Aliza Dec 19, 2019

Wishing everyone a wonderful holiday season and a happy New Year! Here's a personal message from me!

Leveraging Social Media to Switch Careers and Land Your Dream Job with Jenna Blackwell (From Office Manager to Dressing Celebrities) Dec 01, 2019

How do you land your dream job when you have no experience? Jenna Blackwell knows the answer. From her day job as an office manager in Texas, Jenna used Twitter and her blog to build an online network. With no experience on her resume, she brilliantly leveraged her contacts to land her dream job in Fashion (spoiler alert: with me!). Listen to Jenna's amazing journey from working at an artificial turf company (that's fake grass for those who don't know) to dressing A-list celebrities.

Alexandra Wilkis Wilson on Asking For What You Want and How to be a Serial Networker Nov 24, 2019

As the co-founder of Gilt Groupe, one of the first flash-sale sites in the U.S., Alexandra Wilkis Wilson brought the excitement of a New York sample sale to the online world in 2007. From there, she launched and was the CEO of GlamSquad, the on-demand in-home beauty services app. Now the SVP of Consumer Strategy and Innovation at Allergan, her job is to build new digital ventures, including Spotlyte and Regi. Learn how Alexandra asks for what she wants, sets goals, and continues to innovate.

Tina Craig on Pioneering the Business of Influence & Creating U Beauty Nov 17, 2019

Tina Craig went from traveling the world as an MTV VJ to being bored at home in the suburbs of Texas as a mom of a six-month-old baby. Today Tina, formerly @BagSnob, is one of the original super bloggers, the co-founder of an influencer management firm, discovering talent, including the infamous @DietPrada and the founder of U Beauty, her skincare brand. Learn how this multi-hyphenate entrepreneur continues to reinvent herself to create a blockbuster influencer empire that has no signs of slowing down.

My Mentor, Patti Cohen, On The Story of How She Helped Build Donna Karan & DKNY Into a Global Powerhouse, and How To Be A (ROCKSTAR) Leader Nov 10, 2019

Patti Cohen is my mentor. As employee #1 at Donna Karan International, she was the former EVP of Global Marketing and Communications and is hugely responsible for creating these powerhouse brands. Patti is the epitome of what a leader should be. Over her 30 plus years at Donna Karan, she helped start and build it all — an extraordinary marketer who had a vision for the brands beyond what anyone had ever seen. Everything I know, I have learned from her. Without her, I would not be where I am today.

How to Build a Successful Online Brand From Scratch with Rachel Blumenthal Nov 03, 2019

How do you launch a brand from scratch and turn it into a successful e-commerce business? Rachel Blumenthal, Founder & CEO of Rockets of Awesome, has the answers. With her brand Rockets of Awesome, Rachel is setting out to offer parents a smarter way to shop for high-quality kids' clothing. Listen to her incredible story, her process for hiring talent, and why she believes that curiosity and the openness to explore are the two most important skills you can have.

Social Media Guru & Entrepreneur Peter Shankman on How to Build a Loyal Tribe and Why Having an ADHD Brain is a Superpower, Not a Curse Oct 27, 2019

The New York Times has called Peter Shankman a "rockstar who knows everything about social media, and then some." He is a 5x best-selling author, an entrepreneur, and a corporate keynote speaker. Peter is an expert on building loyal tribes of fans and is recognized worldwide for radically new ways of thinking about customer experience, social media, PR, marketing, and advertising. His latest book, Faster Than Normal and the podcast by the same name, focus on ADHD as a superpower, not a curse.

Pursuing Your Passion Even When You Can’t Find a Job and Not Being Afraid to Speak Up With Jessica C. Andrews Oct 20, 2019

After graduating from Columbia University, Jessica Andrews couldn't land a job, so as a savvy self-starter, she created Glamazons Blog, and everything took off from there. From Essence to Teen Vogue, she was responsible for one of the brand's most viral stories on cultural appropriation. Today, as the Deputy Fashion Editor of Bustle, Jessica is teaching others how to raise their voices. Listen to our important discussion about cultural appropriation, diversity, inclusion, and so much more.

How Lyn Paolo Became an Emmy Award-Winning Costume Designer with No Formal Training (and Created Olivia Pope's Iconic Style!) Oct 13, 2019

Lyn Paolo is one of the most iconic and sought-after Costume Designers in Hollywood today with credits in hit TV series to major films. As an Emmy® Award-winning Costume Designer, she has decades of experience including "ER" and "The West Wing" back in the day. Lyn was the force behind the impeccably dressed Olivia Pope on the ABC-TV hit television series "Scandal," "How to Get Away With Murder," "Shameless," "Animal Kingdom," "Little Fires Everywhere and most recently, "Inventing Anna." Learn how she came up in an industry with no formal training, built her credibility on the back of her talent and network, and tells incredible stories through fashion.

When to Say No to an Opportunity and How to Negotiate with Bevy Smith, Media Personality and Host of SiriusXM’s “Bevelations" Sep 27, 2019

Bevy Smith knows her worth and you should too. As a native New Yorker, she credits her Harlem upbringing to making her the stylish, savvy, and authoritative media personality she is today. Now the host of "Bevelations" her SiriusXM show on Radio Andy, this former advertising executive and host of Page Six TV and Fashion Queens, played hardball with all her negotiations throughout her career. She passed on opportunities that anyone else would have jumped at. Learn why and how to advocate for yourself.

NY Times Best-Selling Author, Nicole Lapin, on How to Rock Your Finances and Break into a New Industry Sep 24, 2019

No one likes managing their money, but money expert and New York Times best-selling author of "Boss Bitch," "Rich Bitch," and "Becoming Super Woman," Nicole Lapin, makes it easy. In this episode, Nicole transparently shares her broken childhood, personal debt story, and ultimately, her tricks of the trade. She teaches the small choices you can make to start saving and building wealth. To be clear, this is the opposite of a boring finance lesson! Nicole shares her insights honestly and comically. Learn how to manage your finances and break into a new industry without experience. Listen to how Nicole faked it 'til she made it and mastered the "language" of money so that the next time you say, "Yes, boss," you're saying it in the mirror.

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