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What if the story your skin is telling isn't the one you've been taught to believe? In this episode, Jordan pulls back the curtain on her own autoimmune skin journey — the flare-ups, the frustration, the Western medicine dead-ends — and the holistic healing path that ultimately changed everything. This isn't just a skincare conversation. It's a conversation about what happens when we finally listen to our bodies instead of fighting them. Jordan walks us through the real connection between gut health, mindset, and the skin we see in the mirror, and she gets refreshingly honest about what actually works (and what's just marketing) when it comes to skincare after 40. We talk gua sha, retinol, collagen, and yes — the truth about Botox. But underneath all the practical tips is something deeper: a reminder that supporting yourself internally is what makes external beauty sustainable. As Jordan puts it: you want to age like a grape, not a raisin! Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Jordan and her expertise 02:09 Jordan's autoimmune skin story and initial symptoms 03:55 Western vs. holistic approaches to autoimmune skin issues 07:11 The holistic protocol and healing journey 08:54 Signs of progress and healing from inside out 10:59 Autoimmune skin conditions and genetic factors 13:01 Approach to clients with skin conditions and internal factors 15:49 The psychological connection to skin health 19:00 Skincare tips for women in their 40s and beyond 22:01 Top skincare ingredients and routines 26:04 Myth busting in skincare and product selection 31:59 Favorite skincare products and tools 36:12 The truth about Botox and non-invasive options 38:46 Gua sha techniques and neck as the foundation 42:46 The importance of internal self-love and confidence 44:56 Closing reflections and empowering message Connect with Jordan:  Website: https://www.beautybyjordan.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beautybyjordanco/ Television Appearance: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HMqXNTSeue4 Connect with The Women On Top: Follow The Women On Top Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts.  Subscribe for more empowering conversations and stories! Website: https://thewomenontop.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewomenontop  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewomenontoppodcast/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-lynn/

When Life Breaks You Open *A gentle content note: This episode includes discussion of infant loss and grief. Please listen with care.* What if the moments that break us open can also become the moments that reveal our deepest purpose? In this deeply personal conversation, Hope Alcocer shares her journey through trauma, loss, entrepreneurship, and healing, and how some of life's hardest experiences ultimately shaped the work she does today. We talk about the art of the pivot, finding courage when life doesn't go according to plan, and why authenticity and genuine human connection matter more than ever in a world increasingly shaped by AI. Hope also opens up about the loss of her daughter, Mia, and the powerful way she has chosen to honor her through the Mia Joy Foundation, creating community and support for NICU families and others navigating grief. We explore what grief looks like long after the funeral, how couples can navigate profound loss together, the signs we sometimes find from the people we've lost, and how it's possible to make room for joy without leaving grief behind. Whether you're an entrepreneur navigating a major pivot, a woman facing an unexpected chapter, or someone learning to live alongside loss, Hope's story is a powerful reminder that we are stronger than we realize—and that there can still be magic and purpose in what goes right. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Hope Alcocer and her journey 02:13 Hope’s personal story and the significance of pain 04:00 Her family’s history of resilience and trauma 05:31 The pivot from psychology to media and marketing 06:54 Overcoming fear and embracing the art of the pivot 08:30 Authenticity in marketing and media today 12:01 The impact of AI and returning to basics in marketing 14:09 Building trust through authenticity and storytelling 18:47 The story behind the Mia Joy Foundation 21:56 Honoring Mia and supporting NICU families 23:59 Navigating grief as a couple and the importance of communication 26:52 The ongoing journey of grief and healing 30:11 Lessons learned and supporting others in grief 33:56 Finding joy and purpose after loss 35:55 Signs of loved ones and spiritual connection 38:59 Supporting others through grief and loss 43:04 How to support women facing grief and trauma 45:11 Hope Alcocer’s message of strength and love Connect with Hope: Website - The Mia Joy Foundation: https://www.miajoyfoundation.org/ The Mia Joy Foundation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themiajoyfoundation/ Website - Hope Alcocer: https://www.hopealcocer.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hopealcocer Connect with The Women On Top: Follow The Women On Top Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts.  Subscribe for more empowering conversations and stories! Website: https://thewomenontop.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewomenontop  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewomenontoppodcast/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-lynn/

Have you ever looked at someone else’s life and thought, I want that. Maybe it’s the career, the relationship, the freedom, the travel, the house, the family... or simply the version of yourself you imagine you could have become if you’d made different choices. It’s easy to glamorize the lives we didn’t choose. We see the beautiful parts of someone else’s reality, or imagine an alternate version of our own, without seeing what comes with it. Because every life has a hidden cost. In this solo episode, Valerie reflects on the lives we imagine, the choices we made, and the choices we didn’t. She explores what happens when we look beneath the surface of the lives we envy, and whether we would actually be willing to pay the price that comes with them. She also turns that question inward, reflecting on her own career and the choice not to aggressively climb the corporate ladder. There can be grief around the lives we didn’t live, but there can also be value in recognizing the seasons, experiences, relationships, and lessons that came from the paths we did choose. This episode is an invitation to look at our lives with a little more honesty and a little more gratitude—not because every choice was perfect, but because there is no version of life without trade-offs. In this episode, we explore: The illusion of glamorous lives and their hidden costsWhy we often romanticize the lives we didn't chooseHow career ambition can come at the expense of other parts of lifeThe impact of comparison on how we see ourselves and our choicesThe grief that can come with the lives we didn't liveWhy multiple life paths can be fulfilling, even when they look completely differentHow gratitude and self-awareness can help us appreciate the life we are actually livingThe importance of asking whether we want the whole life—not just the parts we can seeA few questions to sit with: What is a life you sometimes envy? What do you imagine that life would give you? And perhaps more importantly: What would that life ask you to give up? Because every life—including the ones we envy—comes with grief, uncertainty, sacrifice, and trade-offs. Maybe the goal isn't to stop wondering what if? Maybe it's to become curious enough about our own lives to recognize that some of the things we might have missed were actually the price of having the lives we did get to live. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and personal reflections 01:24 Envisioning different lives and their hidden costs 03:11 The illusion of glamour and the real sacrifices 05:03 Behind the scenes of seemingly perfect lives 07:20 The reality of travel and lifestyle choices 09:17 Valerie’s career journey and self-reflection 12:24 Living fully through diverse experiences 14:36 The grief and envy in comparing lives 16:29 Questions to consider about envy and gratitude 17:48 Book recommendation: The Midnight Library Mentioned in this episode: 📖 The Midnight Library by Matt Haig Connect with The Women On Top: Follow The Women On Top Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts.  Subscribe for more empowering conversations and stories! Website: https://thewomenontop.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewomenontop  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewomenontoppodcast/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-lynn/

What happens when grief changes the life you thought you wanted? In this episode of The Women On Top, Olivia Burnett opens up about navigating grief, uncertainty, and the unexpected ways life can reshape our dreams and expectations. As the host of 20 Something, Olivia has spent years exploring what it means to find your way through the messy, uncertain seasons of adulthood—and this conversation gets deeply personal. At the heart of this conversation is a simple but powerful reminder: you don't have to have your life figured out to be exactly where you're supposed to be. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Olivia Burnett and her journey 01:48 Starting the 20 Something podcast and its purpose 04:01 Olivia's experience with loss and its impact 07:00 The lesson of embracing uncertainty 11:07 Challenging societal milestones and expectations 15:02 Core values versus societal checkboxes 19:58 The Tall Girl Theory and women's evolving roles 23:00 Dating, attraction, and redefining standards 26:03 Stories of resilience and connection 29:49 The impact of podcasting on Olivia’s soul 33:05 Handling turbulent emotions and self-care 36:08 The power of sharing authentic stories 40:09 Reflecting on childhood and self-acceptance 44:00 The message of self-astonishment and confidence 48:14 Trusting the process and embracing life’s magic Connect with Olivia: 20 Something Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/twenty-something-with-olivia-burnett/id1849245894 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/twentysomething_podcast/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCs83WX_XVbjT1VENrzl3TKQ Connect with The Women On Top: Follow The Women On Top Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts.  Subscribe for more empowering conversations and stories! Website: https://thewomenontop.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewomenontop  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewomenontoppodcast/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-lynn/

What if your hormones aren’t working against you—but actually trying to tell you something? In this episode of The Women On Top, Dr. Alicia Newsome breaks down women’s hormonal health in a way that’s practical, empowering, and easy to understand. We talk about menstrual cycle phases, estrogen and progesterone, stress and cortisol, hormone testing, supplements, exercise, fertility after 35, and why understanding your body can change the way you feel and function. But this conversation goes beyond hormones. We also explore self-worth, purpose, and what it means to create a life—and legacy—that feels aligned. *In this episode:* * Understanding your cycle and hormonal shifts * How stress impacts hormones * Estrogen, progesterone, and mood * Cycle tracking and hormone testing * Supporting hormonal health through lifestyle * Fertility after 35 * Self-worth, purpose, and women's empowerment Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Women's Hormonal Health 01:18 Advice to My 25-Year-Old Self 03:48 Understanding Menstrual Cycle Phases 06:32 Hormones During Ovulation and Their Effects 07:30 The Luteal Phase and Progesterone 09:27 Stress, Cortisol, and Hormonal Imbalance 12:40 Environmental Toxins and Estrogen Dominance 15:05 Cycle Mapping and Hormone Testing 20:36 Supporting Hormonal Balance with Supplements 22:55 Exercise and Movement Throughout the Cycle 24:57 Supporting Fertility After 35 40:00 The Power of Self-Worth and Purpose 52:12 Legacy and Women’s Empowerment   Connect with Dr. Alicia Newsome: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.alicianewsome/?hl=en YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.alicianewsome Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dralicianewsome/?ref=NONE_xav_ig_profile_page_web# Learn More: https://bodywellnessinstitute.practicebetter.io/#/61d24ac639803316f87085f8/bookings?s=6a727abdfa3255b509609085 Connect with The Women On Top: Follow The Women On Top Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts.  Subscribe for more empowering conversations and stories! Website: https://thewomenontop.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewomenontop  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewomenontoppodcast/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-lynn/

In this personal solo episode, Valerie opens up about her layoff, the emotional and practical journey that followed, and the powerful lessons she learned while rebuilding her career with intention. She shares how she navigated uncertainty, reconnected with her core values, trusted her intuition, and ultimately chose alignment over ego—even when the “logical” choice seemed easier. This episode is a grounding, heartfelt reminder that your body knows, your values matter, and your path doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s. Valerie’s Journey in This Episode The moment she knew a layoff was coming—and why it felt strangely right.The shock of entering a tough job market after 17 years in one organization.A terrible interview that clarified what she didn’t want.A temporary role that felt like “homecoming.”A high-paying, high-title offer she turned down because her body said no.The realization that alignment > achievement.The peace she feels now doing work she genuinely loves: employee experience, engagement, well-being, and culture.A Message for Anyone in Transition If you’re navigating a layoff, career change, or a season of uncertainty, this episode is a reminder that you’re not alone—and that clarity, alignment, and purpose often emerge from the messiest chapters. Closing Thank you for being part of this journey. Valerie sends love, encouragement, and a reminder that your richest, most meaningful life is already unfolding—one aligned choice at a time. Connect with The Women On Top: Follow The Women On Top Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts.  Subscribe for more empowering conversations and stories! Website: https://thewomenontop.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewomenontop  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewomenontoppodcast/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-lynn/

In this episode, Dr. Saru Bala joins Valerie to break down the foundations of women’s hormonal health in a practical, empowering way. They explore how stress, gut health, blood sugar, and liver function all work together to influence cycles, symptoms, and long-term wellness. The conversation challenges common misconceptions about “normal” periods, aging, metabolism, and conditions like endometriosis and PCOS—while offering realistic, root-cause strategies women can start using immediately. This episode is a reminder that your symptoms are not random—they’re signals—and learning to interpret them is a powerful first step toward healing. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Saru Bala and Her Mission 03:02 The Importance of Women's Health Awareness 05:58 Understanding Normal vs. Painful Periods 09:06 The Role of Hormones in Women's Health 12:03 Four Pillars of Hormone Health 15:00 Gut Health and Its Connection to Hormones 18:11 Endometriosis and Inflammation 20:50 Creating an Action Plan for Hormonal Health 23:47 The Impact of Stress on Women's Health 30:08 Understanding Cortisol and Its Impact 33:25 Recognizing Stress Signals 35:41 The Truth About Metabolism and Aging 37:57 The Connection Between Stress and Weight Gain 38:33 Nutrition: Finding What Works for You 40:06 The Role of Fasting in Health 41:15 Empowering Women Through Health Education 44:10 Navigating Healthcare: Finding the Right Support 46:39 The Benefits of Castor Oil Packs 50:06 Final Thoughts on Self-Care and Awareness Connect with Dr. Bala: Website: https://www.drsarubala.com/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drsarubala?lang=en Blog: https://www.drsarubala.com/blog Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsarubala Connect with The Women On Top: Follow The Women On Top Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts.  Subscribe for more empowering conversations and stories! Website: https://thewomenontop.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewomenontop  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewomenontoppodcast/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-lynn/

When her marriage ended, SC Perot had to rebuild her entire life from the ground up. What she didn't expect was that the rebuilding would start on long walks, with Harry Styles' music in her ears, slowly leading her back to her own joy.  In this episode, SC shares how that unlikely ritual cracked open a life beyond anything she had planned for, and we talk about what it means to actually follow the internal nudges pointing you toward your dreams, long before you understand where they're taking you. Chapters 00:00 From Law to Joy: SC's Journey 03:01 The Role of Mentorship in Career Transitions 05:56 Navigating Burnout and Career Clarity 08:58 The Power of Decisive Action 12:04 Finding Your Unique Dreams 14:53 Embracing Change and New Opportunities 28:15 The Journey of Joy and Self-Discovery 35:39 Finding Joy in the Everyday 40:13 Balancing Present Gratitude and Future Goals 42:51 Living in the Moment: The Power of Joy 46:49 Advice for the Next Generation: Trust the Process More About SC Perot: Website: https://www.scperot.com/ Styles of Joy Book: https://www.amazon.com/Styles-Joy-Feel-Good-Framework-Rediscovering/dp/1637633459 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scperot/ Anne Levine - Law School Expert: https://www.lawschoolexpert.com/about-ann/ Ingrid Fattel Lee - Joyful: https://aestheticsofjoy.com/ Harry Styles - Carla's Song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7tIC16OCb0k Connect with The Women On Top: Follow The Women On Top Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts.  Subscribe for more empowering conversations and stories! Website: https://thewomenontop.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewomenontop  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewomenontoppodcast/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-lynn/

There is a condition that will affect every single woman on the planet. Not most women. Every woman. And for generations, we have treated it like a secret. Madge Rumman decided she had seen enough. A fintech veteran who could have kept building in the world she knew, Madge followed a quieter and more urgent call into women's health — co-founding Blair Health, Canada's first AI-powered platform for perimenopause and menopause care. Built on one belief: that every woman deserves fast, expert care without a nine-month waitlist standing between her and answers. In this episode we get into why the menopause care system is broken, what Blair Health is doing to fix it, and what Madge learned about betting on yourself when the perfect moment never comes. What we cover: 🔬 Why perimenopause can begin as early as your late thirties and what that means for you right now 🏥 How Blair Health is using AI to bring specialist-level menopause care directly to women 💬 Why menopause has been shrouded in silence for generations and what is finally shifting 🚀 What it is really like to build in femtech, where funding and talent are both scarce ✨ Why the perfect moment is never coming — and what happens when you stop waiting for it Connect with Madge:  Blair Health Website: https://blairhealth.ca/about-us Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/DXMuGdLCk6Q/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/madgerumman/ Links: https://nkzv9.mssg.me/?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQPOTM2NjE5NzQzMzkyNDU5AAGnso_HXraNslsM_7E_GXnIRpob4r9IfIAyIXtZuG7JCO0uPToKnV6gGCk-GvA_aem_8lyUc6y9VGHoYMW3wMtzhg Connect with The Women On Top: Follow The Women On Top Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts.  Subscribe for more empowering conversations and stories! Website: https://thewomenontop.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewomenontop  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewomenontoppodcast/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-lynn/

The job market has dramatically changed — and most people are still playing by the old rules.  In this episode, talent acquisition expert and senior leader, Dena Ayala, pulls back the curtain on what's actually happening on both sides of the hiring table. We talk about how AI is reshaping resumes and recruitment, why your personal story is your most underutilized asset, and how women especially can advocate for themselves with more confidence and creativity. Whether you're actively searching or simply future-proofing your career, this one is full of practical moves you can make today! What we cover: 🤖 How AI is changing the game for both job seekers and recruiters 📄 Writing resumes and videos that actually feel like you 🔄 Practical strategies for career transitions and upskilling 🔮Where the job market is heading — and how to stay ahead of it Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Talent Acquisition Challenges 03:04 Navigating the Job Market: Insights and Strategies 05:54 The Role of Video Resumes in Job Applications 08:54 Empowering Women in Career Advancement 11:54 The Impact of AI on Recruitment 15:02 Future Job Market Trends and Adaptation 17:59 Optimizing Resumes with AI Tools 22:36 Navigating AI in Job Applications 25:38 The Personal Touch in Job Applications 27:38 Passion for Helping Others 29:34 Embracing Change in Recruitment 31:15 Tools for Modern Recruiters 35:27 Building a Meaningful Career 40:55 Celebrating Accomplishments and Finding Joy resources Helpful AI Tools: Gamma for Presentations - https://gamma.app/Seamless AI - https://seamless.ai/JuiceBox - https://juicebox.ai/Apollo - https://apollo.io/Krisp - www.krisp.aiSeekOut - www.seekout.com  Connect with Dena & Ignite Human Capital: Ignite Human Capital - https://ignitehumancapital.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denaayala/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ignitehumancapital/ Connect with The Women On Top: Follow The Women On Top Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts.  Subscribe for more empowering conversations and stories! Website: https://thewomenontop.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewomenontop  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewomenontoppodcast/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-lynn/

In this episode, we sit down with Arianna Davis Santana, Executive Editor of Digital at the TODAY Show, to explore what it really means to build a career at the center of modern media, and what ambition looks like once you’re inside it. Arianna’s career spans some of the most influential names in media: from Oprah Daily (formerly O, The Oprah Magazine) to the TODAY Show, where she now leads digital strategy and editorial direction while also appearing on-air to break down what’s trending online. Before that, she helped launch OprahMag.com, the fastest-growing site launch in Hearst Magazines’ history, and later helped lead its evolution into Oprah Daily.  She has also shaped editorial storytelling at Refinery29, where she wrote deeply reported features and personal essays centered on culture, identity, and the lived experiences of women. Across every chapter of her career, Arianna has been inside the rooms where modern media is shaped - interviewing icons like Oprah Winfrey, Hillary Clinton, Mariah Carey, John Legend, Will Smith, and more, while also building digital platforms that define what millions of people read, watch, and share. But this conversation goes far beyond titles. We talk about: -The evolution of ambition in modern media -What success actually feels like once you achieve what you thought you wanted -Why leadership sometimes requires a little “Miranda Priestly energy” -How authenticity, kindness, and authority can coexist in powerful women -And how AI, digital culture, and storytelling are reshaping the future of media Arianna also opens up about the deeper lessons she’s learned along the way, including how career setbacks, reinvention, and visibility all shape who you become when no one is watching. At its core, this episode is about rewriting success, redefining ambition, and learning how to lead without losing yourself in the process.   Connect with Arianna: Website: https://www.ariannadavis.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ariannagab LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ariannadavis/ What Would Frida Do?: https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/arianna-davis/what-would-frida-do/9781541646322/?lens=seal-press TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ariannagdavis Connect with The Women On Top: Follow The Women On Top Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts.  Subscribe for more empowering conversations and stories! Website: https://thewomenontop.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewomenontop  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewomenontoppodcast/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-lynn/

What does it really take to build a powerful career and a fulfilling life—and why are so many women deciding the traditional path just isn’t worth it anymore? In this episode of The Women On Top, Molly McCartan, Managing Partner at The Whisper Group and Founder & CEO of The Mom Pact, pulls back the curtain on her journey through the high-stakes world of mergers and acquisitions, and the deeper calling that led her to advocate for working women everywhere. We also explore the growing movement of women stepping away from traditional careers—and what needs to change to truly support women in the workplace, at home, and within themselves. If you’ve ever questioned the path you’re on, felt the weight of “doing it all,” or wondered what it would look like to build your own table—this episode is for you. Chapters 00:00 Empowering Women in Business 02:41 Navigating Mergers and Acquisitions 06:08 Building a Supportive Network 08:58 Strategies for Business Success 11:43 Avoiding Common Pitfalls 15:01 Overcoming Burnout and Self-Doubt 25:34 The Pressure to Prove: Women's Challenges in the Workplace 27:42 Negotiating for Yourself: The Importance of Self-Advocacy 29:17 Balancing Work and Family: The Ongoing Struggle 30:04 Finding Support: The Role of Partners in Career Success 31:54 The Workforce Exodus: Why Women Are Leaving Their Jobs 33:13 Creating Resources for Working Moms: The MomPact Initiative 34:29 Advocating for Change: The Need for Better Policies 36:20 Mental Health Resources: A Crucial Need for All 37:51 Closing the Gender Gap: The Fight for Equality 40:44 The Reality of Corporate Loyalty: Understanding Your Worth 42:24 Supporting Yourself: Best Practices for Busy Women 45:45 Embracing Imperfection: The Journey of Growth 47:54 Building Your Own Table: Empowering Women to Lead 49:50 Paying It Forward: The Importance of Mentorship Connect with Molly: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mollymccartan52 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mollyowensmccartan/ The Mom Pact: https://www.entreprenista.com/articles/molly-mccartan-is-building-the-mom-pact-to-advance-ambitious-working-mothers-through-strategy-community-and-career-support Connect with The Women On Top: Follow The Women On Top Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts.  Subscribe for more empowering conversations and stories! Website: https://thewomenontop.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewomenontop  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewomenontoppodcast/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-lynn/

Today’s episode is a re-release of my conversation with Jenneh Rishe, shared in loving memory of her life. In sad news, Jenneh passed away recently, and I’ve chosen to bring this conversation back because it so deeply reflects who she was - her clarity, her compassion, her honesty, and the way she showed up for others even while navigating her own health journey. Listening back now, her voice carries even more meaning. This episode is not just a conversation, it’s a reflection of her presence, her advocacy, and the impact she made in the lives of so many.  She carried with her fierce hope and faith, and was always looking for the silver lining. It is an honor to get to share her voice again here, and to keep her story and her work alive.  She has left a powerful legacy and will be missed! Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Chronic Illness Advocacy 01:44 The Journey to Diagnosis 08:22 Lack of Awareness in Women's Health 10:56 Understanding Endometriosis Beyond Gynecology 13:14 The Impact of Endometriosis on Overall Health 15:03 Mental Health and Identity After Diagnosis 17:45 Advice for Those Suspecting Endometriosis 21:38 The Importance of Persistence in Health Advocacy 22:44 Navigating the Healthcare System: A Patient's Role 24:56 Effective Communication with Healthcare Providers 26:00 Shared Decision Making in Healthcare 30:46 Journaling as a Tool for Mental Health 33:41 The Journey of Writing and Future Aspirations 36:14 Finding Hope in Chronic Illness 39:24 Empowering Women to Trust Their Bodies Learn More About Jenneh Rische: Website: https://www.jennehrishe.com/ The Endo Co: https://www.theendo.co/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeabove_illness/?hl=en Connect with The Women On Top: Follow The Women On Top Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts.  Subscribe for more empowering conversations and stories! Website: https://thewomenontop.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewomenontop  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewomenontoppodcast/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-lynn/

Show Notes: What if the thing standing between you and your most visible, impactful self isn't a lack of strategy — but a fear you've been calling something else? In this episode, I sit down with Melanie Borden — brand strategist, speaker, and author of Theater of the Mind — for an honest, grounding conversation about what it actually means to build a personal brand as a woman. Not the polished version. The real one. Melanie has helped hundreds of women step into their professional presence with clarity and confidence, and what she's learned might surprise you: your brand isn't something you create. It's something you uncover. It's the essence of who you already are — and the work is learning how to transfer that into everything you put out into the world. We talk about the trap of overthinking, the real reason imposter syndrome keeps showing up, and why so many women are waiting for confidence before they start showing up — when it actually works the other way around. Melanie's framework is simple but transformative: visibility builds confidence, not the other way around. Whether you're just beginning to think about your brand or you've been circling it for years, this conversation is your invitation to stop waiting and start being seen. In this episode, you'll hear: What a personal brand actually is (and why most people get it wrong)How authenticity and your "inner essence" are the core of everything you put outWhy imposter syndrome shows up so often for women — and how to start dismantling itThe small but powerful habit of collecting proof of your own achievementsWhy creating content with your audience in mind (not yourself) changes everythingWhat Melanie means when she says confidence is a result of visibility, not a requirement for itChapters 00:00 Introduction to Branding and Personal Essence 05:30 Navigating Vulnerability and Imposter Syndrome 10:08 Theater of the Mind: Crafting Your Brand Narrative 15:22 Understanding Readiness in Branding 19:26 Defining Your Brand: Melanie's Perspective 22:26 Empowering Women in Personal Branding 25:05 Facing Fears and Taking Risks 30:10 Learning from Setbacks 33:07 Creating for Your Audience 38:15 The Power of Visibility 44:04 Transformative Impact of Personal Branding Connect with Melanie:  Website: https://humantobrand.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melanieborden/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/humantobrand/ Connect with The Women On Top: Follow The Women On Top Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts.  Subscribe for more empowering conversations and stories! Website: https://thewomenontop.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewomenontop  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewomenontoppodcast/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-lynn/

In this conversation, Dalourny Nemorin shares the story behind the fire that drives her, from her Haitian roots to her work as a public defender, and now, her decision to run for Congress. But this episode goes deeper than titles. It’s about what it takes to keep going when the work is heavy.  How to stay hopeful without becoming naive. And why community is not just important, it’s everything. Dalourny reflects on standing on the shoulders of those who came before her, people who believed in change before it was visible, and how that legacy shapes the way she moves through the world today. This is a conversation about resilience, responsibility, and the kind of hope that refuses to disappear.  A powerful listen for anyone who feels called to something bigger—and is learning how to keep going. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dalourny Nemorin 03:01 Journey to Becoming a Public Defender 05:56 The Challenges of Public Defense 09:02 Resilience in Advocacy 11:59 Navigating Politics as a Woman 15:06 The Importance of Networking 17:52 Mentorship and Guidance 21:12 Running for Congress: A Call to Action 23:58 Understanding the Role of Congress 26:51 The Impact of Federal Policies 29:47 The Future of Advocacy and Change 31:55 Survival Mode: The Struggles of the Working Poor 33:00 Resilience and Optimism in the Face of Adversity 36:52 The Importance of Self-Preservation in Activism 42:07 Proposed Solutions for Healthcare and Housing Affordability 45:23 Navigating Relationships Amidst Political Beliefs 47:13 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Embracing Identity 52:27 Choosing Your Life Path and Defining Success Links: Website: https://www.dalourny.nyc/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dalourny YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dalourny Connect with The Women On Top: Follow The Women On Top Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts.  Subscribe for more empowering conversations and stories! Website: https://thewomenontop.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewomenontop  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewomenontoppodcast/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-lynn/