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  • I Can Learn From a Cockroach

    Veronica Karas is the Principal of CAPTRUST, a financial advisory where she provides comprehensive financial planning services to high-net-worth individuals and small businesses. With over a decade of experience as a Certified Financial Planner™, she specializes in areas such as estate planning, retirement planning, tax strategies, and insurance. Veronica is also the author of the Money Matters book series, which enhances financial literacy. Beyond her professional endeavors, she serves as the Co-president of the CAPTRUST Community Foundation. 

    Veronica Karas apple spotify pandora amazon music Deezer iheartradio playerfm .podwrap img{margin-right:20px;}.center-block{margin:0 auto;float:none;display:block;text-align:center;} height:53 .elementor-element-9f9cfc5 a .wp-image-1318{ width:183px; max-width:183px; min-height:5px; height:53px; } .elementor-10888 .elementor-element.elementor-element-76df018, p{text-shadow: none !important;}

    Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:

    • [3:06] Veronica Karas shares how her family’s immigrant experience inspired her passion for financial literacy
    • [10:28] The lessons Veronica learned starting her financial planning career during the 2008 recession
    • [16:52] Veronica outlines the unique financial challenges women face across their life cycle
    • [22:29] Why Veronica wrote the Money Matters book series and the importance of financial literacy
    • [29:49] Veronica’s work to expand financial literacy in schools through book donations and partnerships
    • [31:56] Advice for women to become financially literate

    In this episode…

    When it comes to managing finances, many women feel overwhelmed and disconnected. With outdated systems, unequal pay, and societal norms that often leave them out of financial conversations, financial literacy can feel like a foreign language. How can you take control of your financial future?

    Financial literacy advocate Veronica Karas maintains that financial literacy isn’t just for experts; it’s essential for everyone. Women can understand money by acknowledging that they are capable of learning financial concepts despite historical and societal conditioning that convinces them otherwise. Veronica encourages women to leverage online resources and meet with Certified Financial Planners for personalized guidance.

    In today’s episode of the Lead Like a Woman Show, Andrea Heuston meets with Veronica Karas, the Principal of CAPTRUST, to talk about how she empowers women through financial literacy. Veronica discusses the long-term impacts of financial planning, how she expands financial literacy in schools, and what she learned launching her financial planning career during the 2008 recession.

    Resources Mentioned in this episode:

    Quotable Moments:
    • “If a service professional tells you not to worry about it, you should worry about it.”
    • “You can make it beautiful, and you can turn it into anything you want it to be.”
    • “You could be keeping $1,000 more in your pocket every single month.”
    • “You have to participate in your own financial life and really take control of it.”
    • “It’s much harder to learn how to write a check when you’re 94 than when you’re 34.”
    Action Steps:
    1. Start learning basic financial literacy as early as possible: Building knowledge about money management, taxes, and credit early can help avoid costly mistakes later in life. Even small steps — like understanding interest rates or reading a book — create a strong foundation for future financial decisions.
    2. Take advantage of free financial planning resources: Tools like the Financial Planning Association’s pro bono network connect you with certified professionals at no cost. These resources can provide tailored advice without the pressure of sales-driven services.
    3. Teach financial concepts to your children: Introducing kids to money through games or conversations helps normalize financial literacy from a young age. This early exposure empowers the next generation to make confident and informed financial choices.
    4. Don’t ignore your tax forms — learn how they work: Understanding documents like the W-4 helps ensure accurate withholdings, preventing large refunds or unexpected tax bills. Proper knowledge can increase your monthly income and reduce your reliance on tax-season “bonuses.”
    5. Reassess your financial plan after major life events: Divorce, death, career changes, or starting a business can all drastically alter your financial landscape. Being proactive in these moments helps you regain control and make decisions with long-term benefits.

    Sponsor for this episode…​

    This episode is brought to you by Lead Like a Woman, a podcast dedicated to empowering women to unlock their leadership potential and amplify their voices.

    We’re excited to introduce our new newsletter, which brings you exclusive access to past podcast episodes, products and services from our incredible podcast guests, unique Lead Like a Woman merch, and valuable opportunities to help you grow and lead.

    To sign up for our newsletter and stay connected, send an email to andrea@leadlikeawoman.biz, and we’ll get you on the list today.

    And the easiest way to find us? Simply type #LeadLikeAWoman into your search bar.

    Powered by Rise25 Podcast Production Company

  • You WANT To Be Uncomfortable

    Kamila Gornia is the Founder, CEO, and Business Coach at Heart Behind Hustle, where she helps small businesses, personal brands, coaches, and course creators build, grow, and scale their companies. She is also the CEO and Corporate Trainer at Accelerated Impact Online, which helps corporate teams improve the productivity, systems, and results of their online marketing campaigns. Since 2014, Kamila has assisted over 25,000 entrepreneurs, contributing to more than $2 million in revenue. Her expertise has been featured in Forbes, Entrepreneur, Inc., and The Huffington Post.

    Kamilia Gornia apple spotify pandora amazon music Deezer iheartradio playerfm .podwrap img{margin-right:20px;}.center-block{margin:0 auto;float:none;display:block;text-align:center;} height:53 .elementor-element-9f9cfc5 a .wp-image-1318{ width:183px; max-width:183px; min-height:5px; height:53px; } .elementor-10888 .elementor-element.elementor-element-76df018, p{text-shadow: none !important;}

    Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:

    • [2:46] How Kamila Gornia transitioned from side hustles to building Heart Behind Hustle
    • [8:38] Kamila’s early experience with online marketing at age 12
    • [13:28] The psychology of sales and how consumer behavior has shifted
    • [16:17] How specificity and transparency in marketing help break through the noise
    • [19:19] Kamila shares her approach to sales
    • [21:19] What is Evergreen Icon™, and how does it help coaches and course creators?
    • [24:51] Managing mindset and overcoming imposter syndrome as a coach

    In this episode…

    When launching an online business, the constant demand for sales calls, social media engagement, and client outreach can be overwhelming. How can business owners create a sustainable, scalable model that generates revenue?

    Business coach Kamila Gornia has built automated, evergreen sales systems that free up entrepreneurs’ time while increasing revenue. She emphasizes shifting from an employee mindset to a CEO mindset, focusing on transparent sales psychology, and leveraging automation to attract the right clients. Kamila advises entrepreneurs to refine their messaging, clearly communicate their unique approach, and implement systems that allow their business to run smoothly without constant manual input.

    In this week’s episode of the Lead Like a Woman Show, Andrea Heuston interviews Kamila Gornia, the Founder, CEO, and Business Coach at Heart Behind Hustle, about launching an online coaching business. Kamila discusses her proprietary approach to sales, how coaches can overcome imposter syndrome, and her early experience with online marketing at 12 years old.

    Resources Mentioned in this episode:

    Quotable Moments:
    • “I needed to stop thinking like an employee and start thinking about what I get to create.”
    • “The more specific you can get, the more believable your offer becomes.”
    • “My job in my marketing is not to teach them the details; it’s to enroll their perspective.”
    • “Instead of chasing clients, I let my marketing attract the right people who already resonate.”
    • “If you’re not willing to be uncomfortable, you’re not growing; you’re just hanging out.”
    Action Steps:
    1. Shift from an employee mindset to a CEO mindset: Viewing yourself as a business owner rather than just a service provider allows for greater strategic decision-making. This shift enables entrepreneurs to focus on long-term growth rather than day-to-day survival.
    2. Use transparent messaging to build trust: Clearly outlining what your offer includes and how you achieve results reduces skepticism among potential clients. When people understand the approach upfront, they are more likely to engage and stay committed.
    3. Leverage automation for marketing and sales: Setting up automated sales funnels and lead generation through ads ensures consistent revenue without constant manual effort. This frees up time for business owners to focus on higher-impact activities like content creation and client experience.
    4. Position yourself as a thought leader: Sharing insights and perspectives through content — whether on social media, podcasts, or emails — establishes credibility. When people resonate with your way of thinking, they are more likely to seek out your offers.
    5. Get comfortable with discomfort: Growth happens when entrepreneurs take calculated risks and challenge themselves beyond their comfort zones. Pushing for expansion and new opportunities continually ensures long-term success and prevents stagnation.

    Sponsor for this episode…​

    This episode is brought to you by Lead Like a Woman, a podcast dedicated to empowering women to unlock their leadership potential and amplify their voices.

    We’re excited to introduce our new newsletter, which brings you exclusive access to past podcast episodes, products and services from our incredible podcast guests, unique Lead Like a Woman merch, and valuable opportunities to help you grow and lead.

    To sign up for our newsletter and stay connected, send an email to andrea@leadlikeawoman.biz, and we’ll get you on the list today.

    And the easiest way to find us? Simply type #LeadLikeAWoman into your search bar.

  • Don’t Let Anyone Tell You No

    Lori Mazan is the Co-Founder, President, and Chief Coaching Officer of Sounding Board, a leadership development firm offering a tech-driven, human-centric approach to leadership development. With over 25 years of executive coaching experience, she has provided tens of thousands of coaching sessions to top leaders, including Fortune 100 CEOs and venture-backed startup executives. Lori is among the first 250 coaches globally to be certified by the International Coach Federation (ICF). She is also the author of Leadership Revolution: The Future of Developing Dynamic Leaders, which explores innovative approaches to leadership development. 

    Lori Mazan apple spotify pandora amazon music Deezer iheartradio playerfm .podwrap img{margin-right:20px;}.center-block{margin:0 auto;float:none;display:block;text-align:center;} height:53 .elementor-element-9f9cfc5 a .wp-image-1318{ width:183px; max-width:183px; min-height:5px; height:53px; } .elementor-10888 .elementor-element.elementor-element-76df018, p{text-shadow: none !important;}

    Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:

    • [3:12] Lori Mazan’s journey from social work to executive coaching and tech leadership
    • [9:41] How Lori and her co-founder built Sounding Board
    • [16:37] Why women should take risks
    • [21:49] The role of leadership coaching in professional development
    • [25:29] Lori shares concepts from her book Leadership Revolution
    • [31:02] The power matching strategy: how to assert yourself in male-dominated spaces

    In this episode…

    Many women leaders struggle with adapting to change, inspiring their teams, and making confident decisions in high-stakes environments. With evolving leadership expectations, how can executives and entrepreneurs develop the skills to thrive in today’s fast-moving world?

    Executive coach Lori Mazan emphasizes the role of coaching in developing dynamic leaders. Coaching allows leaders to clarify their desires, develop resilience and adaptability, and challenge binary thinking. Through power matching — a technique for asserting presence in leadership interactions without overpowering or backing down — leaders can navigate complex workplace dynamics with confidence.

    In this episode of the Lead Like a Woman Show, Andrea Heuston chats with Lori Mazan, Co-Founder, President, and Chief Coaching Officer at Sounding Board, about leadership development. Lori explains why women leaders must embrace risk-taking, how to secure venture capital through persistence, and the importance of shifting your mindset.

    Resources Mentioned in this episode:

    Quotable Moments:
    • “Stop fixing yourself. You’re good the way you are. Just get clear on what you want and go for it.”
    • “Venture capital is all about the future. Investors want to see the dream, not just the numbers.”
    • “If you can think of it, you can do it. Don’t let anyone else tell you no.”
    • “Leadership isn’t about reacting; it’s about being at choice in how you navigate change.”
    • “Power matching is about meeting authority where it is — not shrinking or overpowering, but standing strong.”
    Action Steps:
    1. Take risks from where you are now: Don’t wait until you feel fully prepared. The right moment is now, and taking action will create momentum.
    2. Ask why when faced with rejection: If someone says no — whether for funding, a job, or an opportunity — ask why, fix the issue, and try again.
    3. Practice power matching: When encountering dominant personalities, match their energy instead of shrinking or overcompensating. This creates an equal power dynamic.
    4. Adopt a nonbinary mindset: Instead of choosing between two limited options, seek a third, better solution that expands possibilities.
    5. Get a leadership coach: Having a thinking partner who pushes you to reach your goals can be the difference between stagnation and success.

    Sponsor for this episode…​

    This episode is brought to you by Lead Like a Woman, a podcast dedicated to empowering women to unlock their leadership potential and amplify their voices.

    We’re excited to introduce our new newsletter, which brings you exclusive access to past podcast episodes, products and services from our incredible podcast guests, unique Lead Like a Woman merch, and valuable opportunities to help you grow and lead.

    To sign up for our newsletter and stay connected, send an email to andrea@leadlikeawoman.biz, and we’ll get you on the list today.

    And the easiest way to find us? Simply type #LeadLikeAWoman into your search bar.

  • It’s Okay To Be Fabulous!

    Emily Blumenthal, known as the “Handbag Fairy Godmother,” is the author of Handbag Designer 101, a comprehensive guide for aspiring designers. She also founded the Independent Handbag Designer Awards to spotlight emerging talent and hosts the Handbag Designer 101 podcast, which showcases the stories behind iconic handbag brands. Emily is a Professor of Entrepreneurship at the Fashion Institute of Technology.

    Emily Blumenthal apple spotify pandora amazon music Deezer iheartradio playerfm .podwrap img{margin-right:20px;}.center-block{margin:0 auto;float:none;display:block;text-align:center;} height:53 .elementor-element-9f9cfc5 a .wp-image-1318{ width:183px; max-width:183px; min-height:5px; height:53px; } .elementor-10888 .elementor-element.elementor-element-76df018, p{text-shadow: none !important;}

    Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:

    • [5:10] Emily Blumenthal’s journey from working in media to creating her handbag empire
    • [11:34] The challenges women face building and scaling a business
    • [16:20] Emily talks about the skill sets that propelled her business forward
    • [19:31] The creation of Handbag Designer 101 and the Independent Handbag Designer Awards
    • [22:25] A synopsis of Savvy Suzanna — Emily’s upcoming book on entrepreneurship for kids
    • [26:26] What is the CASM (customer, agony, solution, monetization) framework?

    In this episode…

    Many women entrepreneurs struggle with scaling their businesses, often finding themselves stuck between growth and control. They are conditioned to take on too much, fearing delegation might dilute their brand or message. How can female founders shift from managing every detail to building sustainable, scalable businesses?

    Handbag industry expert and entrepreneur Emily Blumenthal has developed the CASM framework — customer, agony, solution, and monetization — to validate business ideas before investing resources. This methodology, combined with persistence, allowed Emily to land her products on Sex and the City and QVC. She encourages female entrepreneurs to embrace delegation, reframe failure as a stepping stone to success, and develop clear strategies for long-term growth. 

    In today’s episode of the Lead Like a Woman Show, Andrea Heuston chats with Emily Blumenthal, the author of Handbag Designer 101, about her entrepreneurial insights. She talks about empowering young girls through early entrepreneurship, the skill sets she leveraged to launch her business, and the origins of the Independent Handbag Designer Awards.

    Resources Mentioned in this episode:

    Quotable Moments:
    • “We are not built to scale; we are built to control.”
    • “If you want to teach kids to have hopes, wishes, and dreams, teach them how to fail.”
    • “You can’t fly if you don’t try. You don’t even realize you’re flying until you fall.”
    • “Homework is free. Do as much market research as you can before spending money.”
    • “Has it led to sales? What’s the conversion rate? Feet on the ground, and it makes sense.”
    Action Steps:
    1. Understand your customer before launching a product: Identifying your target audience’s needs ensures your product solves a real problem in the market. Without this clarity, entrepreneurs risk wasting time and resources on ideas that lack demand.
    2. Embrace failure as a learning opportunity: Viewing setbacks as stepping stones to success helps entrepreneurs refine their strategies and improve resilience. Every failure provides insights that can be used to pivot, adapt, and grow a stronger business.
    3. Develop persistence and follow-up skills: Reaching out repeatedly, as long as it’s done strategically, can open doors that seem closed. Building relationships through persistence and humor can turn a rejection into an opportunity.
    4. Secure your brand name and trademarks early: Owning social media handles and trademarks prevents legal disputes and strengthens brand recognition. This proactive step ensures long-term control and protection of your business identity.
    5. Start small and test before investing heavily: Conducting market research and creating a minimum viable product minimizes risks and maximizes learning. Entrepreneurs who validate their ideas before scaling are more likely to build sustainable businesses.

    Sponsor for this episode…​

    This episode is brought to you by Lead Like a Woman, a podcast dedicated to empowering women to unlock their leadership potential and amplify their voices.

    We’re excited to introduce our new newsletter, which brings you exclusive access to past podcast episodes, products and services from our incredible podcast guests, unique Lead Like a Woman merch, and valuable opportunities to help you grow and lead.

    To sign up for our newsletter and stay connected, send an email to andrea@leadlikeawoman.biz, and we’ll get you on the list today.

    And the easiest way to find us? Simply type #LeadLikeAWoman into your search bar.