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In this episode of Momentum Matters, host April Benetollo welcomes Magie Cook, visionary entrepreneur, internationally recognized speaker, and keynote for the Momentum Leaders Annual Leadership Conference. Magie’s story is one of extraordinary resilience. After spending the first 18 years of her life in an orphanage in Mexico, she immigrated to the United States, earned a college basketball scholarship, experienced homelessness after graduation, and ultimately founded a fresh salsa company with just $800. That company later sold alongside Garden Fresh to Campbell’s Soup for $231 million. In this powerful conversation, Magie shares how adversity shaped her leadership mindset and led her to develop her 3R Framework—Resilience, Resourcefulness, and Relentlessness. Together, April and Magie explore what it truly takes to build something lasting: from cultivating purpose and aligning values, to leading teams with clarity, courage, and compassion. Listeners will hear practical leadership lessons, real-world entrepreneurship insights, and reflections on how women leaders can navigate challenge, rejection, and growth without losing themselves in the process. Magie also discusses her work today as a philanthropist and leadership advisor, collaborating with Fortune 100 and 500 companies and supporting orphanages and vulnerable communities in Mexico. This episode is a must-listen for women leaders, entrepreneurs, and anyone seeking to turn adversity into meaningful impact. Visit our website: www.MomentumLeaders.org Follow us on Social Media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MomentumLeaders Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/momentumleaders LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/momentumleaders YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@momentumleaders

What does it mean to define your legacy while you’re still living it? In this episode of Momentum Matters, host Raven sits down with Andrea McCaskey, former statewide director of Momentum Leaders, for a powerful conversation about leadership, purpose, and influence. Andrea shares insights from her journey through corporate leadership, nonprofit work, and personal loss—revealing how faith, connection, and the practice of pausing to breathe have shaped her leadership philosophy. Together, they explore why legacy is built in the present and how leaders can pivot with clarity, intention, and courage. This episode is for women leaders, executives, and changemakers who want to lead with authenticity and impact. Tune in for inspiration, reflection, and a reminder that leadership is stronger when we are connected—and that Momentum Matters. Visit our website: www.MomentumLeaders.org Follow us on Social Media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MomentumLeaders Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/momentumleaders LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/momentumleaders YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@momentumleaders

 In this inspiring episode of Momentum Matters, Raven Holloway sits down with Kathy Boswell, Chief Encouragement Officer and founder of B.Intentional. Kathy shares her unique approach to leadership, focusing on the power of encouragement and leaving a lasting legacy through intentional actions. She explains how being mindful in how we show up—whether in business or personal life—can make a profound impact on others. Kathy also delves into the importance of emotional intelligence and self-awareness in leadership. She emphasizes that true leadership isn’t about titles but about understanding our emotions and how they influence our actions. In a world filled with distractions, she encourages us to be intentional in every decision we make. Kathy’s shares her journey through grief, after losing her son Parker, and how it has deeply shaped her philosophy of living with purpose. Despite her pain, she continues to encourage others, embodying the power of faith, resilience, and love. This episode is a heartfelt reminder that intention truly matters in both leadership and life. Visit our website: www.MomentumLeaders.org Follow us on Social Media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MomentumLeaders Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/momentumleaders LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/momentumleaders YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@momentumleaders

In this episode of Momentum Matters, host April Benetollo sits down with Maureen Zappala—former NASA propulsion engineer, award-winning speaker, and keynote for the upcoming Momentum Leadership Conference—for an inspiring conversation about imposter syndrome, confidence, and unlocking your full potential. Maureen shares the unlikely childhood moment that sparked her career in engineering, what it was really like stepping into NASA as the youngest and first female manager in her lab, and how self-doubt shaped her early career. She breaks down the psychology of imposter syndrome, why high achievers are especially vulnerable, and the practical tools she now teaches to help people challenge distorted thinking and step boldly into their strengths. Whether you’re navigating a new role, leading teams, or striving to grow into your brilliance, this episode offers both clarity and encouragement. Tune in for a powerful preview of Maureen’s upcoming keynote for Rise 2026, Momentum's Leadership Conference—and learn how to quiet the inner critic so your confidence can rise. Learn more about our conference, here: https://conference.momentumleaders.org/ Visit our website: www.MomentumLeaders.org Follow us on Social Media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MomentumLeaders Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/momentumleaders LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/momentumleaders YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@momentumleaders

In this episode of Momentum Matters, host April Benetello sits down with Janet King, founder of The Gathering Lab, for a powerful conversation about why meaningful relationships feel harder to build today—and what we can do to change that. Janet shares how motherhood, remote work, and the pandemic shaped her passion for rebuilding authentic community. She breaks down the science of human connection, the hidden costs of social media and AI companionship, and why intentional gathering design is key to creating spaces where people feel depth, trust, and belonging. Whether you’re craving richer friendships, leading teams, or simply longing for more connection in an increasingly disconnected world, this episode offers both insight and hope. Tune in and explore how real relationships can thrive again—one intentional gathering at a time. Visit our website: www.MomentumLeaders.org Follow us on Social Media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MomentumLeaders Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/momentumleaders LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/momentumleaders YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@momentumleaders

Closing the Confidence Gap—at work and beyond. In this episode of Momentum Matters, CEO/cohost April Benetollo sits down with Kelli Thompson—award-winning author of Closing the Confidence Gap, TEDx speaker, and executive coach—to unpack how high achievers become influential leaders. Kelli shares: Her path from banking & HR to entrepreneurship and executive coachingWhy confidence is a side effect of action—and how to swap “but first” for “while also”The difference between achiever and strategic leader (and how to make the jump)A practical framework to speak up with authenticity (not a one-size “executive presence”)Navigating systemic barriers: non-promotable work, the “helper’s high,” and delegation that sticksInsights from her TEDx “Pedestal Problem” on authority bias and trusting your own voiceAbout Kelli Thompson Kelli is an award-winning author, keynote speaker, and executive coach whose work appears in Harvard Business Review, Fast Company, MarketWatch, Quartz, and Business Insider; she’s been profiled in Forbes and is a Stevie Award winner for Women in Business (Coach of the Year). Resources & Next Steps Book: Closing The Confidence Gap: Boost Your Peace, Your Potential & Your PaycheckWatch her TEDx by searching “Kelli Thompson TEDx”Learn more about Momentum Leaders: momentumleaders.orgEnjoying the show? Subscribe, rate, and share to amplify women’s leadership stories. Credits & Partners Produced by Social U. Brought to you by America’s Thrift Stores, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama, Protective Life, and Regions Bank. A full list of corporate partners is at momentumleaders.org. Special thanks to our Momentum members, donors, and volunteers. Visit our website: www.MomentumLeaders.org Follow us on Social Media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MomentumLeaders Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/momentumleaders LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/momentumleaders YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@momentumleaders

Legacy. Leadership. Influence. In this episode of Momentum Matters, cohost Raven Holloway sits down with Tonya Hill Mitchell—former HR executive, founder & executive director of Diane’s Heart, and Inspire Action coach—to talk about transforming loss into purpose, building a living legacy, and why women leaders must “act brand new” to step fully into their power. Tonya shares: The origin story of Diane’s Heart and the moment she chose purpose over a lucrative corporate pathHer three core coaching questions: Who am I? What do I want? Who am I here to serve?The difference between brand and reputation—and how to show up consistently“On the Cusp”: a new body of work about pouring out, being filled up, and moving beyond hesitationThe radical self-care practices that fuel resilience and clarityHow inspired action (not duty) moves us forwardConnect with Tonya Inspired Action Coaching and Consulting: myinspiredaction.com Email: [email protected] Diane’s Heart: https://dianesheart.org  Enjoying the show? Subscribe, rate, and share to amplify women’s leadership stories. Credits & Partners:  Produced by Social U Brought to you by America’s Thrift Stores, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama, Protective Life, and Regions Bank. A full list of corporate partners is available at momentumleaders.org.  Special thanks to our Momentum members, donors, and volunteers. Visit our website: www.MomentumLeaders.org Follow us on Social Media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MomentumLeaders Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/momentumleaders LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/momentumleaders YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@momentumleaders

In this episode of Momentum Matters, host Katie Hannah sits down with Dr. Kate McCombs, professor of leadership at Samford University and alumna of Momentum’s Upward Class 4. Kate shares her journey from finance to academia and dives deep into what it means to lead yourself before leading others. From defining self-leadership and emotional intelligence to discussing the changing nature of work, burnout, and the role of AI in leadership—this episode is full of insights for anyone striving to lead with purpose, adaptability, and heart. Tune in to learn: Why self-leadership is the foundation of effective leadershipHow the next generation defines success differentlyThe balance between efficiency and effectiveness in the age of AIHow women can set healthy boundaries without guilt🎙️ Presented by Momentum Leaders — empowering women to advance in leadership. Visit our website: www.MomentumLeaders.org Follow us on Social Media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MomentumLeaders Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/momentumleaders LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/momentumleaders YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@momentumleaders

In this episode, Katie sits down with Selena Rodgers Dickerson, a trailblazing entrepreneur from Birmingham, Alabama. Selena opens up about her journey in a male-dominated field, sharing how resilience, mentorship, and purpose shaped her path. From building a company rooted in equity and community voices to balancing career and family, Selena offers powerful lessons on leadership, personal branding, and creating supportive workplaces. A must-listen for anyone passionate about leadership, equity, and inspiring the next generation. Visit our website: www.MomentumLeaders.org Follow us on Social Media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MomentumLeaders Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/momentumleaders LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/momentumleaders YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@momentumleaders

🎙 Takeaways from 30 Years of Digital Ventures with Cindy Martin In this episode of Momentum Matters, host April Benetollo sits down with Cindy Martin, a true pioneer in digital media and entrepreneurship. With a career spanning three decades, Cindy has led transformative ventures that shaped the way we consume news and connect online. From her early work at AT&T and Magellan—one of the first commercial search engines—to her leadership as founding CEO of AL.com and President of Alabama Media Group, Cindy has been at the forefront of innovation in digital media. Today, she continues to inspire as the Founder and CEO of Bham Now, The Bama Buzz, and Hville Blast, creating fresh, community-driven media across Alabama. In this conversation, Cindy shares: Key lessons learned from navigating the ever-changing digital landscapeHow she turned challenges into opportunities for growth and innovationWhy community connection and local storytelling remain central to her missionInsights for leaders looking to thrive in times of disruptionWhether you’re a seasoned professional, aspiring entrepreneur, or simply curious about the future of digital media, Cindy’s wisdom and experiences will leave you energized and inspired. Visit our website: www.MomentumLeaders.org Follow us on Social Media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MomentumLeaders Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/momentumleaders LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/momentumleaders YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@momentumleaders

The Momentum Matters podcast is back—with fresh voices, powerful stories, and a bold new direction. In this inaugural episode of our relaunch, CEO April Benetollo is joined by new co-hosts Katie Hannah and Raven Holloway for a heartfelt conversation about what’s ahead for the podcast and the mission behind it. You’ll hear personal reflections on leadership, legacy, and transformation—and get a behind-the-scenes look at how Momentum continues to expand its impact across Alabama and beyond. Whether you're a long-time listener or brand new to the Momentum community, this episode is your invitation to lead with purpose, clarity, and authenticity. 🔗 Subscribe, rate, and share—and join us in amplifying the voices of women in leadership. Visit our website: www.MomentumLeaders.org Follow us on Social Media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MomentumLeaders Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/momentumleaders LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/momentumleaders YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@momentumleaders

Welcome to the latest episode of the Momentum Matters Podcast: Courageous Conversations. In this inspiring episode, Christine Roberts, owner and CEO of Create Your Best Life, engages in a heartfelt conversation with Momentum's April Benetollo. Christine shares her incredible journey from her humble beginnings in Rochester, New York, to becoming a successful entrepreneur in Atlanta, Georgia. Discover how Christine transformed her life story into her life's work as the CEO and Founder of Create Your Best Life, where she offers Executive, Leadership, and Life coaching with a holistic approach. With over 25 years of corporate experience, including roles at Disney Institute and The John Maxwell Company, Christine provides invaluable insights for high-achieving leaders. Join us as Christine discusses her pivotal decision to transition from a successful sales career to starting her own company, and the significant takeaways from her year-long travels across the USA. Learn about her structured approach to executive leadership and life coaching, and how she integrates work-life integration into her coaching practice. Don't miss out on Christine's free tools, mindset quiz, and resources available on her website. Plus, sign up for her upcoming Free Virtual Training with Momentum on August 14th, 2024 from 12-1 CST, focusing on personal and professional development. Christine also offers free consultations and frequently speaks at various engagements. Connect with Christine at: christinemroberts.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-m-roberts/ Visit our website: www.MomentumLeaders.org Follow us on Social Media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MomentumLeaders Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/momentumleaders LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/momentumleaders YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@momentumleaders

In this episode, April Benetollo, CEO at Momentum sits down with Clinical Psychologist and Performance Coach Josh Klapow, PhD. They explore his career journey, experiences, and invaluable insights on organizational consulting and leadership coaching. The discussion delves into the nuances of male and female leadership styles in the workplace, shedding light on communication challenges and societal influences that shape these dynamics. Josh emphasizes the importance of respecting individuality and humanity in all interactions, transcending gender stereotypes. Through his expertise, Josh underscores the vital role of effective communication and emotional intelligence in successful leadership. He shares practical strategies for cultivating these essential skills, enabling leaders to navigate complex situations with empathy and clarity. Whether you're a seasoned leader or aspiring to take on a leadership role, this episode offers invaluable wisdom and actionable insights to help you unlock your full potential and foster a more inclusive and empowering workplace culture. Stay tuned for more insightful episodes on Momentum Matters, where we explore the intersection of leadership, personal growth, and organizational success. Resources mentioned:  Forbes Feature: How Clinical Psychology And Performance Coaching Help Women Navigate A Competitive Male Dominated Workplace https://www.forbes.com/sites/bonniemarcus/2024/02/01/how-clinical-psychology-and-performance-coaching-help-women-navigate-a-competitive-male-dominated-workplace/?sh=6aa73b0b2ab9 Josh's bio: https://momentumleaders.org/people/josh-klapow/ Josh's website at www.mentaldrive.com. To learn more about Josh's work and the performance mindset, visit mentaldrive.com or follow Josh on social media.  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjoshk/ Instagram:@mentaldrive https://www.instagram.com/mentaldrive/ TikTok: @mentaldrive  https://www.tiktok.com/@mentaldrive  Visit our website: www.MomentumLeaders.org Follow us on Social Media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MomentumLeaders Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/momentumleaders LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/momentumleaders YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@momentumleaders

In this episode we interview Sharon Melnick, PhD, on the topic of power. Dr. Melnick is a global authority on leadership, confidence, resilience, and power. Dr. Melnick is the premier expert at creating fast and lasting behavioral change in accomplished but overwhelmed professionals, enabling them to expand their leadership impact and become change agents across the enterprise. With her psychological tools, clients harness their emotional makeup to create an inspiring culture under stressful conditions, and use their influencing capacities to achieve outsized results. Dr. Melnick is the best-selling author of In Your Power, as well as two earlier books, Confidence when it Counts and Success Under Stress.  Dr. Melnick's work is inspired by 10 years of research at Harvard Medical School. She offers coaching, training, and consulting to more than 50 Fortune 500 companies. She is a frequent speaker and facilitator at Momentum, for which we are so grateful!  You can find more resources from Dr. Melnick on her website at sharonmelnick.com. Visit our website: www.MomentumLeaders.org Follow us on Social Media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MomentumLeaders Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/momentumleaders LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/momentumleaders YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@momentumleaders

In this podcast, Executive Career Coach and Leadership Development Speaker Lenetra King, FACHE, shares her background and current mission with Momentum CEO April Benetollo. Lenetra is the founder and CEO of her company, Watch Me Excel, whose mission is to help organizations to engage, promote, and retain exceptional talent. Her mission's primary focus is to serve leaders in underrepresented communities.  Lenetra's book, Unwritten Insights: A Career Playbook for Leaders of Color, is an excellent resource for leadership growth in the workplace, and can be purchased on her website.  Helpful Links: Website: www.watchmeexcel.com Connect with Lenetra on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/lenetra-king/ Follow Watch Me Excel on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/watchmeexcel/about/ Visit our website: www.MomentumLeaders.org Follow us on Social Media: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MomentumLeaders Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/momentumleaders LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/momentumleaders YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@momentumleaders