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Leadership positions in corporations are overwhelmingly held by men. Women who want to advance their careers and have equal representation at the table face enormous obstacles in today's society. They are frequently viewed through the lens of stereotypes, making it difficult for them to demonstrate their worth. In response, it's only natural that they keep their heads down and wallow in their insecurities. Don't you wish there was a guidebook for women to use as they enter the workforce? With this, they could have a much easier time navigating the complex environment. Since there isn't anything like it out there, Jen Pestikas created a podcast called Brave Women at Work to fill the void. This show encourages women to believe in themselves and take charge of their professional lives so that they can progress to the next level. Each episode is devoted to a different set of issues that prevent professional women from reaching their full potential and obtaining the leadership positions they seek. Burnout and imposter syndrome are two common causes of self-sabotage. Learn to break free of the victim mentality and the distractions that prevent you from speaking up, and you will have taken the first step toward removing those obstacles. Get out of your comfort zone and into the path to achieving much larger objectives. Use the information you gain from this show to help you realize your full potential, then stand firm against the unjust demands of the business world. Listen in on discussions that teach you how to advocate for yourself and let others recognize the value you bring to the workplace. Don't let the long hours you spend at work make you feel bored or unappreciated. Find out when it's appropriate to negotiate your salary, your hours, and your position to get the most out of your job. One should not put their professional success in the hands of others. Take advantage of your unique abilities to make significant strides in your career. For over twenty years, Jen has worked as a Certified Career and Leadership Coach in the business world, and now she's bringing that knowledge to the podcast audience. She'll show you how to succeed professionally without sacrificing your personal life or putting on a false front. Gain self-assurance and knock down roadblocks to success with the help of Jen's insightful advice. In addition to her extensive expertise, Jen shares uplifting takeaways from her own corporate experience. Both burnout and the "imposter syndrome" have affected her. She struggled with many self-limiting beliefs and experienced her share of professional dissatisfaction. After spending many years in the predominantly male investment services industry, Jen learned what it takes to stand out as a strong, career-focused woman. She overcame adversity and is now the Senior Vice President of Business Development at a thriving financial institution. She is a shining proof of how far one can go in their careers by playing to their strengths and removing any self-doubt that may have been holding them back. On the podcast, Jen not only discusses her own life but also features interviews with other remarkable women. Find out how they overcame the obstacles they encountered in the business world and how they turned their setbacks into opportunities. These outstanding individuals were once in your shoes, and now you can benefit from their experiences and insights as you propel your own career to new heights. As long as men dominate the corporate world, it will be difficult for women to advance. Don't let the gender gap stop you from pursuing your professional goals. Acquire the resources you need to fully realize your potential by following Jen's guidance and the examples of her amazing guests. Luck will not make you a good leader. Instead, make people listen to what you have to say, become your own advocate, and take bolder action in everything you do. Listen to Brave Women at Work at https://bravewomenatwork.com/.

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Check latest episodes from Brave Women at Work podcast

Unprocessed Grief, Burnout, and the Path Back to Yourself with Harper A. Bailey

2026/04/23

I’m so excited to have another Chicago gal in the house today with me, Harper A. Bailey. Harper and I discovered we had SO much in common with our stories, perspectives, etc. that I hope to meet up with her IRL (in real life) sometime soon! During today’s show, Harper and I talked about: What it felt like for her to be the first Black woman to lead a prominent national women’s healthcare nonprofit.Her burnout story and the grief of transition between who she was and who she became after the experience.The story behind her name Harper A. Bailey and what her real name is and why she decided to use it (grab a tissue).Her book, It Was Her: A Memoir.The differences between macro and micro grief.The moments of grief in corporate that no one talks about. I even share an example I have processed recently.If you are willing to dig a bit deeper on how grief touches us in unexpected ways and is related to burnout and our healing, listen to today’s conversation. Here is more about Harper: Harper A. Bailey is the pen name of Tiosha Bailey, a Chicago native, public health leader, and powerful storyteller who challenges the status quo. She was the first Black woman to lead a prominent national women's healthcare nonprofit, where she prioritized health equity and amplified the voices of underserved communities. Her first book, It Was Her: A Memoir—featuring a foreword by renowned motivational speaker Lisa Nichols—invites readers into a deeply personal story shaped by loss, resilience, and transformation. Through honest and compelling storytelling, Harper explores identity, healing, and the courage it takes to reclaim your narrative. As a speaker, Harper brings clarity, depth, and humor to conversations about leadership, purpose, and the lived experiences of Black women. She connects with audiences through truth-telling and a passion for creating spaces where people feel seen, heard, and empowered. If the Brave Women at Work Podcast has helped you personally or professionally, please share it with a friend, colleague, or family member. And your ratings and reviews help the show continue to gain traction and grow. Thank you again! I’m so pumped to let you know that the E-Book for Brave Women at Work: Lessons in Authenticity is now available on Amazon! If you have a story to share and a deep desire to become an author, please contact me at [email protected]. I am happy to share the details on the project.

Rooted in Bravery: Growing a Multimillion-Dollar Business from Seed to Success with Jacqueline Basulto

2026/04/16

Have you ever wanted to build a business? What about a huge business? While many of our listeners are corporate warriors, I wanted to share the brave story of my guest, Jacqueline Basulto, Founder and CEO of SeedX, a multi-million-dollar data and digital business. Most, if not all, of the takeaways from this podcast apply to all of us. During our discussion, Jacqueline and I chatted about: The story of how she built her company, SeedX.What challenges Jacqueline has faced as she grew her organizationHow she has managed balancing her personal and professional life as an entrepreneurAdvice for any women who would like to build a business or even start a side hustleAnd the role female leaders play in developing strong company culturesIf you have a dream you want to pursue, this show is for you! Here is more about Jacqueline: Jacqueline Basulto is an award-winning, self-made Latina entrepreneur, and the visionary founder, CEO, and Director of New Business at SeedX, Inc. SeedX is a results-driven data and digital growth agency, dedicated to helping clients reach their business objectives through data-driven online strategies and innovative solutions. With over eight years of industry experience, Jacqueline has built a remarkable reputation for delivering tangible outcomes and creating lasting value for clients across diverse sectors and markets. In 2021, Jacqueline was named to Forbes 30 Under 30, recognized as one of the leading figures in the marketing and advertising industries. Her company has also garnered multiple accolades from Clutch, earning recognition as the #1 Woman-Owned Digital Agency and the #1 B2B Agency in the United States. A passionate advocate for empowering businesses, Jacqueline is committed to equipping companies with the tools and strategies needed to thrive in the digital age. She is a sought-after speaker and content creator, covering topics such as business growth, grassroots online political strategy, community engagement, sales training, and leadership. A proud native of New York, Jacqueline is a devoted mother to a two-year-old daughter and shares her life with her husband, daughter, and three beloved dogs. If the Brave Women at Work Podcast has helped you personally or professionally, please share it with a friend, colleague, or family member. And your ratings and reviews help the show continue to gain traction and grow. Thank you again! I’m excited to share that Brave Women at Work: Lessons in Authenticity is coming out soon in E-Book! Be on the lookout for a purchase link for the $0.99 E-Book in April 2026! And, finally, I am already receiving interest in Brave Women at Work: Lessons in Abundance! This will be the sixth book in the women’s anthology series! This project will begin later this year in August 2026! If you have a story to share and a deep desire to become an author, please contact me at [email protected]. I am happy to share the details on the project. Alright, let’s welcome Jacqueline to the show!

Stop Managing Imposter Syndrome — Make It Your Superpower with Jen Coken

2026/04/09

I thought that Imposter Syndrome was something to be managed. Not eradicated, but managed. Jen has an entirely different view on Imposter Syndrome. She thinks we can make it our superpower. I was curious and completely open-minded to Jen’s perspective because there’s always more to learn. During our discussion, Jen and I chatted about: How she got into the STEM sector and continues to work with people in STEM and other industries today.Why she believes Imposter Syndrome is our superpower and not something to get rid of.How Imposter Syndrome shows up for Jen and other leadersWhat is Jen’s Leadership DecoderWhy people call Jen the velvet sledgehammerHere is more about Jen: Featured on ABC, MSNBC, and TEDx, Jen Coken is an internationally recognized executive leadership coach, speaker, and best-selling author with more than twenty-five years of experience helping leaders break barriers and lead with authority. She’s guided nearly 10,000 leaders worldwide—from Fortune 1000 executives to emerging women in STEM—to transform self-doubt into confidence, and confusion into clarity. Jen’s trademark blend of neuroscience, soul, and stand-up makes her unlike any other coach in the leadership space. She uses humor to reach people where logic can’t—because when there’s laughter, there’s listening, and when there’s listening, there’s learning. Her book, Make Imposter Syndrome Your Superpower, offers a practical roadmap for leaders to own their brilliance and lead with influence, impact, and unapologetic authenticity. Whether she’s on a stage, in the trenches with your team, or coaching one-on-one, Jen’s mission is constant: to help brilliant minds show up as their boldest, most powerful selves—without compromise. If the Brave Women at Work Podcast has helped you personally or professionally, please share it with a friend, colleague, or family member. And your ratings and reviews help the show continue to gain traction and grow. Thank you again! I’m excited to share that Brave Women at Work: Lessons in Authenticity is coming out soon in E-Book! Be on the lookout for a purchase link for the $0.99 E-Book in April 2026! And, finally, I am already receiving interest in Brave Women at Work: Lessons in Abundance! This will be the sixth book in the women’s anthology series! This project will begin later this year in August 2026! If you have a story to share and a deep desire to become an author, please contact me at [email protected]. I am happy to share the details on the project. Alright, let’s welcome Jen to the show!

Brave Conversations Start Here: Appreciative Inquiry with Jackie Stavros and Cheri Torres

2026/04/02

She's Not Difficult — She's Confident with Dr. Kasi Lacey

2026/03/26

Well friends and podcast listeners, I have met another sister from another mister in my guest today, Dr. Kasi Lacey! I met Dr. Kasi at the Thrive in ’25 Conference last summer, and I was like, Dr. Kasi is my person! When we chatted, I really resonated with what she was saying and so much of our corporate war stories were similar, even though Dr. Kasi and I come from different industries. It simply goes to show you that it doesn’t really matter the industry. What matters is that we share our stories so that women do not feel alone. When I met Dr. Kasi, I know I felt seen. Like my work with Brave Women at Work, Dr. Kasi focuses a big portion of her work on lifting women up so they can build confidence and advocate for themselves. Once I found that out, I knew she had to be on the show. During our discussion, Dr. Kasi and I chatted about: Confidence is a skill we can build; it’s not something we have or don’t have.How resilience, grit, and clarity have key roles in building confidence in any area of your life.How boundaries go hand in hand with confidence buildingWe chatted about how Dr. Kasi loves being on stage, and it wasn’t something she set out to do.Her upcoming book, The Confidence Comeback: The Psychology of Reclaiming Your Power, Voice, and LeadershipAnd we also touched on her course: Break Free from Self-Doubt Here is more about Dr. Kasi: Dr. Lacey is a nationally recognized psychologist, author, keynote speaker, and confidence coach who empowers women and workplaces to lead with confidence. She blends the science of psychology with actionable leadership strategies to deliver high-impact, transformative keynotes and training that leave audiences inspired and equipped to take action. With 15+ years of experience as a C-suite executive in higher education and a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology, Dr. Lacey is known for her relatable, energizing speaking style and her deep understanding of what it truly takes to cultivate confidence in leadership - especially for women navigating high-pressure roles. Whether she’s on stage, on camera, or in a boardroom, Dr. Lacey's mission is clear: help women lead unapologetically and help organizations build thriving, inclusive, and psychologically safe environments. If the Brave Women at Work Podcast has helped you personally or professionally, please share it with a friend, colleague, or family member. And your ratings and reviews help the show continue to gain traction and grow. Thank you again! I’m excited to share that Brave Women at Work: Lessons in Authenticity is coming out soon in E-Book! Be on the lookout for a purchase link for the $0.99 E-Book in April 2026! And, finally, I am already receiving interest in Brave Women at Work: Lessons in Abundance! This will be the sixth book in the women’s anthology series! This project will begin later this year in August 2026! If you have a story to share and a deep desire to become an author, please contact me at [email protected]. I am happy to share the details on the project. Alright, let’s welcome Dr. Kasi to the show!

The Brave Pivot: A Physician's Journey into Fine Art with Dr. Vasu Tolia

2026/03/19

Do you have someone in your life that has made a brave pivot? For example, maybe a friend, family member or colleague that has made a big leap into a new career, left their career to be a mom or caregiver full-time, left a relationship that was draining them. Whenever I hear stories like this, I’m both awed and triggered at the same time. Why? Well, friends, I have always struggled with big changes. Every time I have left a job, I’ve cried and grieved. I’ve agonized over these big changes, made pros and cons lists, asked everyone I know until I wind myself up to a tight ball of anxiety. Some people release the control of the known and bravely pivot into the unknown. My guest, Dr. Vasu Tolia, has done this with her monstrous move from medicine to art. Talk about different sides of the brain! I met Dr. Vasu through a coaching inquiry, but realized coaching was not the right fit for her. Inviting her to be part of the larger community of powerhouse women I’m part of was. So, I am so pleased to have the opportunity to chat with her today on the show! During our discussion, Dr. Vasu and I chatted about: What led Dr. Vasu to get into medicine?How she knew it was time to move from medicine into the world of art?What the response was from others in her community when she decided to make that pivotHow picking up a paintbrush has made her find something deeper within herselfThe intersection between science, art, and healing and where Dr. Vasu’s work is headedWhat a personal mandala is and how it is a healing exercise it itselfHere is more about Dr. Vasu: Dr. Vasu Tolia is a physician turned healing artist and Emeritus Professor of Pediatrics. After spending over 40 years in academic medicine—establishing Michigan's first pediatric endoscopy unit and publishing 150+ research papers—she embarked on a second career creating healing-focused art grounded in neuroaesthetics. Her work has been featured by The Washington Post, appeared on CDC journal covers, and been included in ArtTreasury's 2026 Collector's Annual. Through her unique charitable giving model, art collectors can direct proceeds to organizations supporting mental health, autism research, and vulnerable populations. Vasu's Bold Statement of Claim is "Healing never retires. It just picks up a different path." Learn more at www.vasutolia.art. If the Brave Women at Work Podcast has helped you personally or professionally, please share it with a friend, colleague, or family member. And your ratings and reviews help the show continue to gain traction and grow. Thank you again!

Wear Your Worth: Personal Style as Self-Advocacy with Dianne Boyer

2026/03/12

I have never been a shopper. Starting in my teenage years, I decided I would be emo and wear black all the time. It was just easier, and it matched my teenage angst and all the Alanis Morrissette I was listening to. Can you relate? I would love to tell you that I have changed in my adult years, but I haven’t really. Black is still my staple, and I don’t put a lot of time into my wardrobe. My guest, Dianne Boyer, has shared with me the importance of putting together a wardrobe that serves us not only personally, but professionally. This is a missing tool that helps us with our confidence and with advocating for ourselves. You know what I’m talking about. When we feel good, we do good. When we wear our favorite outfit, we walk a little taller. And maybe, just maybe, we advocate for ourselves a little more. During our discussion, Dianne and I chatted about: Her origin story in fashion and stylingWhat pushed her out of her work and into running her own business, Dianne in StyleWhat is a color analysis, and why is it important?What is a personal style evaluation, and can it be done from anywhere?What is the goal of Dianne’s work with women?If you are anything like me and are quick to go to wearing black as a default or the same outfits repeatedly that you do not particularly love, this show is for you. Here is more about Dianne: Dianne Boyer is a personal stylist helping women rediscover their confidence and joy through style. After decades in corporate and fashion marketing, Dianne transitioned into styling to empower women navigating life’s next chapter. She offers practical, personalized styling for women who want to feel vibrant and relevant at any age. Reinvention is not just about what she does for others, it’s her own story as well. Her professional path includes leadership roles in Fortune 100 marketing and over a decade in the fashion accessories space. Since the beginning, her career has centered around brand identity, visual impact, and helping others make a strong first impression. She’s leveraged her years of marketing experience and love of fashion and applied the same principles for making brands shine to doing the same for women. Dianne has shared her styling insights on television segments in Detroit and Chicago and has been featured in Real Simple, People, and Today.com. Her message is simple: it’s never too late to reinvent yourself. Whether it’s a career pivot or a fresh outfit, you deserve to love what you see in the mirror. If the Brave Women at Work Podcast has helped you personally or professionally, please share it with a friend, colleague, or family member. And your ratings and reviews help the show continue to gain traction and grow. Thank you again!

Shift Happens: Authenticity, Resilience, and Raising Brave Leaders with Yalonda Brown

2026/03/05

I am so excited to announce that the next Brave Women at Work book is launching soon! I cannot believe we are on our fifth book in the women’s anthology series! Yes, fifth! I do not say this lightly, but Brave Women at Work, this podcast, the book series, the coaching, the speaking, all of it – this is my purpose work. It is what gets me up out of bed in the morning, and it is my rocket fuel of motivation. I hope you either have or find something like this in your life. It also doesn’t have to be like mine. Whatever it is, when you find it, it feels like time is in a flow state. Working doesn’t feel like work. There is no slog, just joy and flow. And PS, it took me over 40 years to finally discover this purpose work, so there is no race to get to the finish line. If you have discovered or want to chat me about finding your purpose work, connect with me on LinkedIn, schedule a coaching discovery call, or send me an email at [email protected]. Speaking about purpose work, my guest today, Yalonda Brown, has found hers. Yalonda pours into young leaders and is a speaker, author, facilitator, and workshop leader. Something else very special about Yalonda is that she was a contributing author in the first Brave Women at Work book, Brave Women at Work: Stories in Resilience, and now she is participating in Brave Women at Work: Lessons in Authenticity! I am so excited that Yalonda has reconnected with the Brave Women at Work community, and I am pumped to have her on the show today. During our discussion, Yalonda and I chatted about: Why she decided to participate in Brave Women at Work: Lessons in AuthenticityAn overview of what her chapter is aboutHer work to foster up and coming youth leaders, and why that is important to herHer work in the workplace wellness fieldWhy Yalonda is encouraged by the Gen Z and Alpha generationsWe also touched on living loss and how shifts happenHere is more about Yalonda: Yalonda Brown is a visionary leader, speaker, and inclusion strategist with more than two decades of experience bridging the private and public sectors. Known for her intuitive leadership and heart-centered approach, she empowers others to lead with authenticity and purpose. Yalonda holds a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership and is a Certified Child and Youth Care Practitioner. In her nonprofit role, she champions the professional growth and well-being of Indiana’s youth workers, cultivating partnerships that strengthen communities and amplify impact. As CEO of Just Say It, LLC, Yalonda facilitates courageous conversations that advance inclusive leadership, and belonging. An accomplished author and speaker, her insights have been featured in SHRM, DiversityQ, and Diversity Professional Magazine. Deeply committed to advancing women and girls, Yalonda actively serves on several boards. Now residing in Arizona with her husband Vincent, she continues to use her platform to inspire resilience, confidence, and purpose in every space she enters.

Major, Not Minor: Wellness, Speaking, and Playing Big as a Woman with Dr. Shana Lewis

2026/02/26

Several years ago, one of my dear friends, Jennie, visited me for the weekend. We went shopping and decided to duck into TJ Maxx. Who doesn’t love a good TJ Maxx run? While we were in the store, we saw a coffee mug that had this saying on it, “I’m kind of a big deal.” I held it up, pointed at it, and smiled while Jennie took a picture of me. Back then, I was play acting that I was kind of a big deal. Now, years later, I know I am. It’s taken burnout and many years of healing to get here. And my guest, Dr. Shana Lewis, has gotten there herself. She mentioned the phrase “I’m major, not minor” in our podcast today, and it reminded me of that story. During our discussion, Dr. Shana and I chatted about: What prompted Dr. Shana to leave a professional therapy practice to pursue executive wellness coachingWhat the 12 dimensions of wellness areWhat #saucerlife means to Dr. ShanaAn overview of her latest book, ONE – Own, Navigate, Elevate Yourself & Everyone Around You: The Leadership Model that Eliminates Burnout and Elevates Your MissionDr. Shana’s tips to use our voices and build our personal and professional brandsIf you want to start fully embodying being major and not minor in your life and career, listen in! Here is more about Dr. Shana: Dr. Shana D. Lewis is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a National Certified Counselor turned Executive Wellness Coach. She has a Bachelor's degree in Psychology, a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology and a Ph.D. in Counselor Education. She is the founder of SDL Enterprises Education, Training, & Consulting Services, LLC, home of the Brand Mastery Academy. She is also the founder of Her VOICE a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering survivors of domestic violence to live healthy lives thru mentorship and education. With over 20 years of experience working with women in the mental health field, Dr. Shana decided to take her clinical knowledge, coupled with her personal experience and wellness training to help high achieving professional women stop seeking balance in life and instead create harmony/integration through understanding the 12 dimensions of wellness. In addition to this work, Dr. Shana is a sought-after business coach for experts & practitioners who want to leverage their genius by building a bankable brand beyond traditional practice by increasing their impact, influence, and income to help thousands across the globe! Dr. Shana believes that wellness is an inside job as a woman cannot lead anyone else anywhere until she has first led herself through healthy self-care and prioritization of her life. To this end, Dr. Shana is a sought-after international keynote and motivational speaker, trainer, and leader in the women’s empowerment and wellness space and curator of the Self-care is the New Sexy International Retreat. She delivers powerful, high-energy keynotes to audiences across the country about a variety of issues including domestic violence, women’s issues, wellness, spiritual issues, mental health issues, self-care and transformation. As a result of her expertise in these areas Dr. Shana has been featured on several media outlets including CBS, NBC, Fox, CW, and ABC as a mental health expert on LIVE with Kelly & Ryan! While Dr. Shana has several pursuits that she is passionate about, her overall desire is to equip high achieving professional women who are overwhelmed and burnt out from the responsibilities of life, career, business, or relationships to gain clarity and focus to position herself to have it all. Dr. Shana believes that when a woman has properly cared for herself, she is aligned, and she has done her work she is then able to function from a place of abundance--a space she affectionately calls #Saucerlife!

From Anchoring the News to Owning Your Voice: How to Stop Playing Small with Bofta Yimam

2026/02/19

My guest today, Bofta Yimam, is an expert in owning your voice, so I was excited to have her on as a guest on the show. During our discussion, Bofta and I chatted about: A bit about her family and Ethiopian roots and what led her to a career in the newsWhat drove her to start her entrepreneurial journeyHow we can stop playing small and own our voicesThe importance of having a LinkedIn presenceWhat mistakes Bofta often sees when her clients try to build their brands onlineWhy it is important for you to have an online presence, whether you are building a business or are in the corporate worldIf speaking up or owning your voice is something you struggle with, please listen in. Here is more about Bofta: Bofta Yimam is an Emmy® and Edward R. Murrow Award-winning journalist, international speaker, and Founder of StoryLede. As the first Ethiopian-American newscaster to receive an Emmy, she helps leaders and business owners amplify their stories and boost visibility. With more than a decade reporting for outlets like CBS News and The Black News Channel, Bofta has covered historic moments from the White House to the 2020 election. As a former Capitol Hill Correspondent, she’s known for her powerful storytelling and trusted voice on issues impacting communities of color. Today, Bofta is a sought-after speaker and corporate trainer who empowers entrepreneurs, nonprofit founders, and thought leaders to elevate their presence online, on stage, and in their industries—driving greater visibility, impact, and revenue. If the Brave Women at Work Podcast has helped you personally or professionally, please share it with a friend, colleague, or family member. And your ratings and reviews help the show continue to gain traction and grow. Thank you again! Don’t forgot about the freebies on bravewomenatwork.com. There are 10 Tips to Win Your Next Negotiation, 24 Career and Leadership Tips, and 5 Ways to Manage Your Imposter Syndrome. And, last but not least, I am already receiving interest in Brave Women at Work: Lessons in Abundance! This will be the sixth book in the women’s anthology series! This project will begin later this year in August 2026! If you have a story to share and a deep desire to become an author, please contact me at [email protected]. I am happy to share the details on the project.

Using Setbacks as Stepping Stones for Growth with Athena Brownson

2026/02/12

To get started today, I would like to share a personal story about my daughter, Olivia. Olivia’s story relates to our theme of setbacks and using them as stepping stones. You may not know this, but Olivia was born was a hair condition that limits hair growth. Olivia is gorgeous exactly as God made her, but as she is getting older, she asked me for a hair piece so she can have longer hair. Olivia’s request scared me, and I wondered if this was too soon (she’s 7) and we needed to wait. Yet, Olivia persisted. She asked me for a hairpiece for months and months. I finally said ok and took her to get the partial wig. When she wore the hairpiece to school the first day, it was really challenging and scary. It was so scary that Olivia decided to take off the wig. This represents her setback. But this isn’t the end of the story. Olivia faced her fear and setback and did something with it. She took a few hours to gather her strength and then put the wig on herself. In front of her friends and peers. When I asked her what made her put the wig on, she said her heart told her so. I share that because that’s what we’re talking about. You can use a setback as a springboard for growth. My guest, Athena Brownson, knows all about this in her own life. During our discussion, Athena and I chatted about: How she kept going after extensive skiing injuriesHer diagnosis with Lyme DiseaseThe modalities she used to support her healingWhat resilience means to Athena and how she used her setback as a springboard for growthHer advice for women who are experiencing their own personal challenges and setbacksHere is more about Athena: Athena Brownson is a living testament to the power of resilience and reinvention. A former professional skier who endured nine knee surgeries and two neck operations, Athena’s greatest challenge came when she was diagnosed with chronic Lyme disease—a debilitating condition that left her bedridden for months. Yet, instead of letting these setbacks define her, Athena used them to fuel her purpose, transforming pain into strength and obstacles into opportunities. Now a thriving entrepreneur and advocate for resilience, Athena empowers audiences to navigate life’s challenges with grit, authenticity, and purpose. She teaches how to embrace change, build balance, and align your career and life with your values. Drawing from her journey, Athena inspires others to redefine success, build their "why," and cultivate the mindset needed to overcome adversity and achieve meaningful growth. If the Brave Women at Work Podcast has helped you personally or professionally, please share it with a friend, colleague, or family member. And your ratings and reviews help the show continue to gain traction and grow. Thank you again! Don’t forgot about the freebies on bravewomenatwork.com. There are 10 Tips to Win Your Next Negotiation, 24 Career and Leadership Tips, and 5 Ways to Manage Your Imposter Syndrome.

From Survivor to Advocate: How Military Assault Led Her to Become a Lawyer with Ashley Tuburan

2026/02/05

My guest, Ashley Tuburan, and I met at a women’s leadership conference I was speaking at last May. Ashley’s story and her spirit touched me, so I asked her to be on the podcast. I would like to warn our listeners that this podcast deals with sensitive topics such as sexual assault and mental illness, so if either of these issues trigger you or others, do what is right for you. During our discussion, Ashley and I chatted about: Her tough childhood and decision to enlist in the militaryHer experience with sexual assault while on active duty and the aftermath of that traumaAshley’s decision to get into law enforcement to protect othersHow Ashley took it a step farther by pursuing a law degreeHow Ashley deals with her mental health and mental health setbacksHere is more about Ashley: Ashley Tuburan is a U.S. Navy veteran, police officer, and trauma-informed coach dedicated to mental health advocacy and survivor-centered leadership. As a military sexual assault survivor, Ashley brings both lived experience and professional insight to her work, helping organizations and individuals better understand resilience, accountability, and healing within high-stress environments. Drawing from her background in military service, law enforcement, and coaching, Ashley speaks on topics including trauma awareness, survivor advocacy, mental wellness, and building healthier cultures in institutions traditionally shaped by toughness and silence. Her approach is grounded, compassionate, and practical—focused on empowering people to lead with empathy while maintaining strength and professionalism. Outside of her professional work, Ashley is a proud mom to an energetic 8-year-old son, a devoted animal lover (maine coon cat mom), and a self-proclaimed donut enthusiast—because balance matters. She believes healing and leadership can coexist, and that authenticity is a powerful catalyst for change. If the Brave Women at Work Podcast has helped you personally or professionally, please share it with a friend, colleague, or family member. And your ratings and reviews help the show continue to gain traction and grow. Thank you again! Don’t forgot about the freebies on bravewomenatwork.com. There are 10 Tips to Win Your Next Negotiation, 24 Career and Leadership Tips, and 5 Ways to Manage Your Imposter Syndrome. And, last but not least, I am already receiving interest in Brave Women at Work: Lessons in Abundance! This will be the sixth book in the women’s anthology series! This project will begin later this year in August 2026!

Your Reinvention Roadmap Series: Brave Women at Work + Flourish Careers Talk About Practical Steps to Reinvent Your Career

2026/01/29

Welcome to final show in the Reinvention Roadmap mini-series with my friend and colleague, Jenn Smith, of Flourish Careers. I have heard such great feedback on this series from listeners. If you would like to have more series like this, please email me at [email protected]. This week, Jenn and I share practical steps you can take today to start reinventing your career. It’s one thing to talk about it in theory. It’s another to start taking bold and brave action towards making your next career chapter a reality! Here are some of the items we cover: Tiny actions to move through reinventionBuilding new habits + ritualsHow to experiment your way into clarityNetworking in an aligned, human wayCreating space for the next version of your life Again, these shows are shorter than my typical normal length – 30 minutes, but they are power-packed. If you have a deep desire for career change in 2026, listen in! Here is more about Jenn: Jennifer Smith Jenn believes career success doesn’t have to be at the expense of living a radiantly happy + healthy lifestyle. Before she became a career coach and HR consultant for heart-based professionals, her roots were deeply grounded in corporate America, including 15 years in HR departments at Fortune 200 organizations. Now as a career coach and consultant, she has had the honor of supporting thousands of professionals around the world by assisting them with discovering and pursuing career intentions better aligned with their hearts and spirits while prioritizing well-being—and she believes we're all the better for it. It's time to stop applying to all those jobs that...don’t exactly get you excited anyway. Using a proven, HEART-based approach, Jenn will help you cultivate a better path, confidently pursue new opportunities, and find the place where you belong. If the Brave Women at Work Podcast has helped you personally or professionally, please share it with a friend, colleague, or family member. And your ratings and reviews help the show continue to gain traction and grow. Thank you again! And don’t forgot about the freebies on bravewomenatwork.com. There are 10 Tips to Win Your Next Negotiation, 24 Career and Leadership Tips, and 5 Ways to Manage Your Imposter Syndrome. Alright, let’s welcome Jenn to the show!

Your Reinvention Roadmap Series: Brave Women at Work + Flourish Careers Talk About How to Redefine Success + the Power of Community

2026/01/22

Welcome to part two of the Reinvention Roadmap mini-series with my friend and colleague, Jenn Smith, of Flourish Careers. If you missed the first show in the series on signs you need to either leave corporate or pursue a career transformation, you’re not too late. That show aired on January 8th, so it’s still pretty hot off the press. This week, Jenn and I talk about the importance of reviewing and redefining success in a more heart-centered way, and the power of tapping int our community for support, especially during times of change. If you like this series, the last one will air next week, January 29th and give you practical steps to reinvent your career. Again, these shows are shorter than my typical normal length – 30 minutes, but they are power-packed. If you have a deep desire for change in 2026, listen in and take notes! Here is more about Jenn: Jennifer Smith Jenn believes career success doesn’t have to be at the expense of living a radiantly happy + healthy lifestyle. Before she became a career coach and HR consultant for heart-based professionals, her roots were deeply grounded in corporate America, including 15 years in HR departments at Fortune 200 organizations. Now as a career coach and consultant, she has had the honor of supporting thousands of professionals around the world by assisting them with discovering and pursuing career intentions better aligned with their hearts and spirits while prioritizing well-being—and she believes we're all the better for it. It's time to stop applying to all those jobs that...don’t exactly get you excited anyway. Using a proven, HEART-based approach, Jenn will help you cultivate a better path, confidently pursue new opportunities, and find the place where you belong. If the Brave Women at Work Podcast has helped you personally or professionally, please share it with a friend, colleague, or family member. And your ratings and reviews help the show continue to gain traction and grow. Thank you again! And don’t forgot about the freebies on bravewomenatwork.com. There are 10 Tips to Win Your Next Negotiation, 24 Career and Leadership Tips, and 5 Ways to Manage Your Imposter Syndrome.

Your Reinvention Roadmap Series: Brave Women at Work + Flourish Careers Talk About When It’s Time for a Change

2026/01/15

Welcome to the Reinvention Roadmap mini-series during the month of January with Brave Women at Work and Jenn Smith, my friend and colleague of Flourish Careers. This series will run on January 15th, January 22nd and January 29th. Jenn and I were chatting the Thrive in ’25 Women’s Conference last summer, and podcast ideas just started pouring out of us! I told her that I was in this weird middle ground with my work clothes, for example. She told me that this was a sign I was in the middle of a deep career reinvention and that I had to pay attention! So, I guess my desire to burn my suits on my front lawn like the old move Waiting to Exhale was telling me something? In this three-part series, Jenn and I dive into the following: Signs You Need to Leave Corporate or Make a Big Change – that’s what we cover in today’s showHow to Redefine Success & the Power of Community in TransformationAnd the final show touches on Practical Steps to Reinvent Your CareerThese shows are shorter than my typical normal length – 30 minutes, but they are power-packed. If you have a deep desire for change in 2026, listen in and take notes! Here is more about Jenn: Jennifer Smith Jenn believes career success doesn’t have to be at the expense of living a radiantly happy + healthy lifestyle. Before she became a career coach and HR consultant for heart-based professionals, her roots were deeply grounded in corporate America, including 15 years in HR departments at Fortune 200 organizations. Now as a career coach and consultant, she has had the honor of supporting thousands of professionals around the world by assisting them with discovering and pursuing career intentions better aligned with their hearts and spirits while prioritizing well-being—and she believes we're all the better for it. It's time to stop applying to all those jobs that...don’t exactly get you excited anyway. Using a proven, HEART-based approach, Jenn will help you cultivate a better path, confidently pursue new opportunities, and find the place where you belong.

Podcast reviews

Read Brave Women at Work podcast reviews

5 out of 5

71 reviews

★★★★★

SWAGGERU JMS 2025/01/14

CSO

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Brave Women at Work with Jen Pastikas is a Must-Listen! Are you looking for a podcast that not only inspires but empowers you to act? B...

★★★★☆

SreeIyer 2025/03/22

Great podcast and ….

Love the topics, speakers and questions you ask Jen. Only one feedback I have is the intro segment is too long. One of the recent episodes i listened...

★★★★★

HerCsuite 2024/12/27

Amazing Show Always Inspired

Host Jen Pestikas creates captivating conversations with actions the listener can take to be Brave at Work. This is your go to podcast for advice that...

★★★★★

lhn546 2024/12/11

❤️ A must listen

Jen is a wonderful host and highlights the stories and learnings of women in the workplace! Love her approach and actionable takeaways for listeners.

★★★★★

JLSmith920 2024/11/19

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

I can wholeheartedly attest that Brave Women at Work is a vibrant and empowering community of women who have overcome challenges to create happier, he...

★★★★★

daniburch 2024/09/06

Really informative and Inspiring

I love this podcast! Jen is great about getting amazing women on her show that really inspire me to move forward even when things are tough. Highly re...

★★★★★

Migraine engineer 2024/07/09

Inspiring and Educational

Brave women at work is one of my favorite podcasts! I learn something every episode and many of them are so deeply relatable to where I am in life th...

★★★★★

hneck 2024/04/25

Authentic and powerful advice for women

What a beautiful show; listening to Jen and her guests is like sitting in a coffee shop hearing your two favorite people have a conversation about thi...

★★★★★

T. Intag 2024/02/07

Delightful discussion!

Jen is wonderful to chat with! She is brilliant with her guests and love her discussions! Highly recommend!

★★★★★

GVandegrift 2024/01/29

Must listen for all women!!!

Such a great resources for all working women. Jen provides both great solo and guest episodes providing advice, tips, resources and real life stories...

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