Advertise on podcast: Opportunity Knocks by EmpowHer Purpose

Is Food Medicine? In Episode 131 of Opportunity Knocks, I’m joined by bestselling cookbook author, holistic health counselor and natural foods cooking instructor Pamela Salzman for a grounded and insightful conversation on redefining what it means to truly feel well. Pamela has two best selling cookbooks: Kitchen Matters and Quicker Than Quick. In her books, Pamela shares her incredible recipes for healthy but delicious meals to make at home. In this episode Pamela also shares how she’s evolved her career from in-person cooking classes to a dynamic online platform, all while staying rooted in her mission to help people nourish themselves through real, approachable food. As her business has grown into digital classes, recipe development, and Substack, her focus has remained clear: making wellness practical, sustainable, and accessible. We talk about the power of adaptability—whether it’s modifying recipes for different dietary needs or learning to listen to your body through different seasons of life. Pamela opens up about her personal experience navigating menopause, the shifts she had to make in her approach to food and exercise, and the importance of tuning out the noise to find what truly works for you. This conversation is a reminder that wellness doesn’t have to be complicated. From anti-inflammatory basics to mindful habits and the influence of community, Pamela brings a refreshing, realistic perspective to whole health—especially as we approach Mother's Day. It’s the perfect time to take inspiration from her approachable recipes and create a nourishing, homemade meal for the mothers or mother figures in your life—something thoughtful, simple, and rooted in care. In This Episode We Discuss: - Wellness works best when it’s simple, consistent, and personalized - Food can be a powerful foundation for healing and feeling your best - Your needs will evolve—learning to adapt is part of the process - External noise can distract from what your body is actually telling you - Taking care of yourself is essential—not optional, We also explore her core values—authenticity, family, health, integrity, and kindness—and how staying aligned with those values has guided every pivot in her journey. If you’ve been craving a more balanced, simplified approach to wellness or looking to evolve your life and work in a more aligned way, this episode is for you. #OpportunityKnocks #PamelaSalzman #FoodAsMedicine #WellnessJourney #HealthyLiving #MindfulEating #SimpleWellness #RealFood #HolisticHealth #NutritionMatters #WellnessOverPerfection #CookWithIntention #SustainableWellness #WomensWellness #FeelGoodFood

Are you running on empty — and not even realizing it? On Episode 130 of the Opportunity Knocks Podcast, I sit down with Sarah Deane — CEO + Founder of MEvolution, Stanford University Continuing Studies instructor, and author of The Wellness Formula — to explore a transformational approach to energy management and human performance. We dive into a powerful truth: your energy — not your time — is the most valuable resource you have. Sarah shares her evidence-based framework for measuring, managing, and optimizing energy, helping you sustain peak performance without burning out. We also explore how aligning with your core values can boost motivation, focus, and overall fulfillment. Sarah Deane is a researcher, teacher, author, and innovator advancing the science of human energy, excellence, and performance. As CEO & Founder of MEvolution, she develops evidence-based systems that combine behavioral and cognitive science with artificial intelligence to help individuals and organizations measure, master, and sustain peak human capacity. A former HP global leader in employee workplace experience, Sarah holds a Master of Engineering in Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence and teaches at Stanford University Continuing Studies. Her work has been featured in Fast Company, The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, Thrive Global, Reworked, and SHRM, and she regularly speaks at conferences including SXSW, HRWest, and Gartner.  In this episode, we explore: • Why energy — not time — is the true currency of capacity • The three pillars of Sarah’s energy management framework • How “energy leaks” silently drain your wellbeing and performance • The cost of running on adrenaline vs. building sustainable reserves • Why aligning with your core values creates momentum and fulfillment By understanding and managing your energy, you can finally move beyond burnout and create the space to perform at your best — personally and professionally. This episode gives you practical tools to start reclaiming your energy today. #OpportunityKnocks #EmpowHer #EmpowHerPurpose #MEvolution #EnergyManagement  #EmbodiedLeadership #NervousSystemRegulation #WomenInLeadership #EnergyIsCurrency #AlignedLiving #BurnoutRecovery #CorporateWellness #EnergyAudit

What if the key to a more balanced life was as simple as learning to pause? On Episode 129 of Opportunity Knocks by EmpowHer Purpose, I sit down with Suze Yalof Schwartz, Founder and CEO of the Unplug Meditation App and creator of the world’s first drop-in meditation studio, Unplug Meditation. After a successful career in the fashion industry working with top publications, Suze experienced a life-changing moment through a simple meditation practice. That moment sparked a complete transformation—leading her to make meditation more accessible, modern, and practical for everyday life. In this conversation, Suze and I explore how meditation can become a powerful tool for managing stress, building consistency, and creating calm in a fast-paced world. Suze also shares how she turned her vision into a global wellness brand—building the Unplug app from the ground up with no prior app development experience, driven purely by her mission to make meditation simple and accessible for everyone. In this episode, we discuss: • Suze’s journey from high-stress corporate life to meditation pioneer • How simple daily practices can create lasting change • The power of habit-building and consistency in wellness • Why human connection is more important than ever in a digital world This conversation is a reminder that even the smallest shifts—like a few minutes of stillness—can create meaningful transformation. When we slow down, build intentional habits, and reconnect with ourselves, we open the door to a calmer, more balanced life. #OpportunityKnocks #Meditation #Mindfulness #WellnessJourney #EmpowerPurpose #WomenInLeadership

What does it take to turn a vision into a nationally recognized brand—and trust yourself every step of the way? On Episode 128 of Opportunity Knocks, I sit down with Laura Wilson, CEO & Founder of Natural Pilates, for an honest and expansive conversation on entrepreneurship, intuition, and sustainable growth. After immigrating to the United States from Romania with just $100, Laura built what is now one of the most respected boutique fitness brands in the country. From her first studio in Beverly Hills to multiple locations across Los Angeles and New York City, Laura shares the real story behind scaling a business—navigating uncertainty, making bold decisions, and learning when to pivot. Together, Laura and I explore the balance between ambition and alignment, the courage it takes to let go of what isn’t working, and the role of intuition in both business and life. Laura also opens up about building a brand while raising a family, staying connected to her purpose through teaching, and why community remains at the heart of everything she creates. With deep expertise in movement and a passion for empowering others, Laura’s journey is a powerful reminder that success isn’t linear—it’s built through resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to keep evolving. In this episode, we talk about: - Building a business from the ground up - Trusting your gut and making aligned decisions - Scaling with intention while maintaining brand integrity -The power of pivoting and letting go - Balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship - Creating longevity through movement and community Whether you’re growing a business, navigating change, or stepping into your next chapter, this conversation will inspire you to trust the path you’re on—and take the next step forward. #OpportunityKnocks #NaturalPilates #WomenInBusiness #EntrepreneurLife #PilatesCommunity #SuccessMindset

Let’s Talk About Our Relationship with Food! Do you consider yours healthy? Well Balanced?  In Episode 127 of Opportunity Knocks, I sit down with Kim Shapira, a registered dietitian, author, and creator of the Kim Shapira Method, to talk about something that impacts all of us—our relationship with food. We dive into how comparison, pressure, and constant noise around what we “should” be doing can disconnect us from our bodies. Kim shares insights from nearly 30 years of experience, along with her Six Simple Rules for building a more balanced, sustainable approach to wellness. In this episode, we talk about: - How diet culture and comparison impact the way we see food and our bodies - What it actually means to listen to your body (and why it’s harder than it sounds) - Kim’s Six Simple Rules for creating sustainable, long-term wellness - The difference between physical hunger and emotional hunger - How to rebuild trust with yourself after years of restriction or confusion - Letting go of guilt and shame around food This conversation is all about learning to tune out the noise, trust yourself again, and understand what you’re really hungry for—both physically and mentally. It’s a reminder that creating a healthy lifestyle doesn’t have to come from restriction, but from awareness, consistency, and self-trust. #OpportunityKnocks #EmpowHer #WellnessJourney #FoodFreedom #MindsetShift #SelfTrust #HealthyLiving #PersonalGrowth #HealthyEating #Diet #Wellness

On Episode 126 of Opportunity Knocks by empower purpose, I sit down with Jessica Mehraban, PA-C, a board-certified physician assistant at NextHealth Jessica is passionate about helping individuals achieve optimal health through a functional, personalized approach. Her work focuses on identifying root causes and creating tailored protocols that support longevity, balance, and overall vitality—from gut health and hormones to skin and aging. In this conversation, Jessica and I explore the shift from reactive healthcare to proactive, preventive wellness. We discuss how advanced lab testing, lifestyle factors, and individualized care can empower people to take control of their health in a more informed and sustainable way. In this episode: • The importance of personalized, root-cause approaches to health • How functional medicine differs from traditional care • Peptides, when to use them, and why foundational health comes first • The benefits of contrast therapy and proactive wellness practices This conversation is a reminder that true health isn’t built on quick fixes, but on understanding your body, creating balance, and taking intentional steps toward long-term wellness. #OpportunityKnocks #FunctionalMedicine #Longevity #WellnessJourney #EmpowerPurpose #WomenInLeadership

How does one build contact connection relationship & intimacy? I’m so excited to share Episode 125 of Opportunity Knocks by EmpowHer Purpose where I sit down with Nick Sharp, M.A., a Clinical Psychology and Counseling professional, trained at the Gestalt Equine Institute of the Rockies and founder of his own equine-based practice, Nick Sharp Counseling. Nick’s work centers around the healing power of connection—both with others and with the natural world. Through equine therapy, he helps individuals build trust, presence, and emotional awareness by working alongside horses, who model authenticity, safety, and nonverbal communication in powerful ways. In this conversation, Nick and I explore how true healing happens through contact, presence, and the willingness to slow down. They also dive into the growing challenges of disconnection in today’s world, and how reconnecting with nature—and ourselves—can create space for transformation. In this episode, we discuss: • The healing power of equine therapy and building trust through presence • Why contact and connection are essential for emotional growth • The difference between solitude and isolation—and why it matters • How slowing down and engaging with nature can support healing and self-awareness This conversation is a reminder that meaningful growth begins when we allow ourselves to be fully present. By embracing discomfort, deepening connection, and reconnecting with the world around us, we open the door to lasting transformation. #OpportunityKnocks #EquineTherapy #PersonalGrowth #Mindfulness #Connection #EmpowerPurpose

I’m so excited to share episode 124 of the Opportunity Knocks podcast featuring the incredible Dr. Christina Tracy Stein. ✨ Christina is a therapist, sexologist, speaker, and the author of Accomplished Woman. Growing up in the personal development world as the daughter of legendary speaker and author Brian Tracy, Christina was surrounded by some of the pioneers of the self-development movement from an early age. Leaders like Tony Robbins, Jim Rohn, and Stephen Covey were part of the conversations in her world growing up, which sparked her lifelong curiosity about human behavior, psychology, relationships, and what it truly means to live authentically and with purpose. In this conversation, we explore everything from communication and intimacy to feminine energy, self-connection, and the power of authentic relationships. Christina shares how her own journey—from becoming a marriage and family therapist to earning a PhD in human sexuality—led her to help people better understand themselves, their partners, and the deeper connections that shape our lives. Christina also talks about her book Accomplished Woman, which encourages women to recognize their value, redefine what accomplishment means, and embrace a more holistic view of fulfillment that includes relationships, vitality, and authenticity. In this episode, we explore: • Why honest communication is the foundation of intimacy • The role vulnerability plays in building meaningful relationships • Reconnecting with your body, energy, and life force • How women can redefine what it means to feel accomplished • Why authentic connection is more important than ever in today’s world When we truly know ourselves and honor our own value, we show up more fully in our relationships—and that’s where real connection begins. #OpportunityKnocksPodcast #AccomplishedWoman #AuthenticConnection #WomenInLeadership #PersonalGrowth #Relationships #EmpowerWomen #FemininePower #SelfDiscovery #EmpowHer #OpportunityKnocks #ChristinaTracy #Success

On Episode 123 of Opportunity Knocks by EmpowHer Purpose, Michelle sits down with Dr. Naina, a pioneering physician and plastic surgeon and specializes in longevity, regenerative, and integrative medicine. She also utilizes her expertise as a plastic surgeon. With a background in mathematics and decades of experience in clinical care, Dr. Naina brings a uniquely analytical and holistic perspective to understanding health, aging, and the future of medicine. Dr Naina seeks to create a whole wellness approach to maximize the quality of her care and better understand the multidimensionality of our wellness. In this conversation, Dr. Naina shares her journey from traditional medicine to a more multidimensional approach that looks beyond symptoms to address the root causes of disease. She discusses how biochemical imbalances, genetics, and lifestyle factors all play a role in long-term wellness, and why personalized treatment plans are essential for true healing. In this episode, we discuss: • The shift from traditional allopathic medicine to integrative and functional approaches • Longevity science, regenerative medicine, and the future of anti-aging care • Hormone regulation, nutrigenomics, and understanding the body’s biochemical balance • Why wellness treatments must be personalized and carefully monitored Dr. Naina’s work challenges the quick-fix culture of the wellness industry and encourages a deeper, more thoughtful approach to health—one rooted in science, discernment, and truly understanding the whole person. #OpportunityKnocks #LongevityMedicine #IntegrativeHealth #WellnessJourney #EmpowerPurpose #WomenInLeadership #EmpowHer #Anti-Aging #Balance

On this episode of Opportunity Knocks by Empower Purpose, Michelle sits down with Dr. Kudzai Dombo, physician and Director of Advocacy and Outreach at Alloy Health  Originally from Zimbabwe, Dr. Dombo shares her journey to becoming a physician and how it shaped her passion for helping women better understand and advocate for their health. Michelle and Dr. Dombo explore important conversations around menopause, hormone replacement therapy, and emerging treatments such as GLP-1s and peptides, while emphasizing the importance of individualized care and lifestyle factors like nutrition and exercise. Through her work at Alloy Health, Dr. Dombo leads support groups for women of color and develops educational workshops that empower women to navigate midlife health with confidence and knowledge. In this episode, we discuss: • Menopause and the importance of open conversation • Hormone therapy and personalized treatment plans • GLP-1s, peptides, and the role of lifestyle in midlife health • Empowering women to advocate for themselves in healthcare Dr Dombo highlights the importance of listening to women’s voices, expanding education around menopause, and creating a healthcare system that truly supports women at every stage of life.  You’re not gonna miss this one! #OpportunityKnocks #WomensHealth #MenopauseAwareness #EmpowerPurpose #WomenInLeadership #Advocacy #EmpowHer #BeEmpowered #Menopause

On this episode of Opportunity Knocks by empower purpose, we sit down with Bruce Cardenas — former Chief Communications Officer of Quest Nutrition, current leader at Legendary Foods, founder of Bioshift, and author of Lead With Value: A Leadership Blueprint for Purpose and Impact. Bruce’s journey is a powerful example of what happens when discipline, service, and purpose align. From serving as an officer with the Los Angeles Police Department to becoming a United States Marine Corps Marine, to building his own gym and eventually helping scale a global brand, Bruce has consistently answered opportunity with courage and conviction. Recently, he has focused his efforts on Legendary Foods as well as leading Bioshift to provide awareness to heart health and make improvements in the care provided. In this conversation, we explore: • Why providing value is the foundation of lasting success • How to build meaningful relationships with intention • The power of combining passion with entrepreneurship • Why integrity is a non-negotiable in business and in life Bruce previously featured on EmpowHer when he spoke at our fall gather event. Bruce was a massive success, speaking on his entrepreneurial career and sharing the knowledge from his lengthy experience with the attendees.  What impressed me the most at this event was how open Bruce was to sharing his contact information and building connections. Bruce is a beacon of positivity for those around him and he thrives at building relationships because of his genuine desire to see the people around him succeed. This episode will challenge the way you think about relationships in business and inspire you to approach every connection with purpose. Bruce sets the standard for work ethic, leadership, and compassion — and reminds us that true success is built on the value we bring to others!  #OpportunityKnocks #LeadWithValue #GrowthJourney #WomenInLeadership #Confidence #TopTransformationalCoach #QuestNutrition #Legendary #EmpowHer #EmpowHerPurpose #TopCoach #Value

We’re so excited to be back and kicking off another episode of  the Opportunity Knocks Podcast! In Episode 120: Unlock Confidence & Stage Presence - Mastering the Spotlight, we’re bringing back a powerhouse guest you may remember from Episode 85, the multi-faceted Tanya Memme, Emmy-nominated TV host, executive media coach, speaker, and former Miss World.  Tanya’s growth in the last 2 years has been nothing short of inspiring, and we’re thrilled to welcome her again, especially as she is also joining us as our guest speaker at the upcoming MembHership Event on November 12th at Next Health, a national longevity company, dedicated toward wellness for all. In our last conversation, we explored the beauty of losing and finding yourself, showing up authentically, and using life’s challenges as catalysts for growth. Since then, Tanya’s journey has continued to unfold in powerful ways. She’s stepped into new roles as a somatic healing coach, podcast host, and creator of the Confidence Toolkit, continuing her mission of helping others connect to their truth and purpose. In this new episode, we dive deep into what it means to show up and be seen without losing who you are, and how vulnerability, resilience, and self-awareness can transform not only your stage presence but your everyday life. Some key takeaways include:  -The power of reinvention and self-trust - Why authentic confidence begins from within - Techniques for embodying presence, both on stage and off -Overcoming the fear of visibility and reclaiming your voice One of the biggest gold nuggets from this episode? You just have to start. Show up as yourself, even if it’s messy, even if it’s imperfect. That’s where the magic begins. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone ready to communicate with confidence, lead with authenticity, and own their unique voice.  #OpportunityKnocksPodcast #MasterTheSpotlight #ConfidenceCoach #ShowUpAuthentically #OwnYourVoice #WomenInLeadership #PersonalGrowthJourney #AuthenticConfidence #NextHealth #MembHershipEvent #TransformYourLife #EvolveAndGrow #transformationalCoach #TopCoachLA

I’m tickled pink to release this new episode on the Opportunity Knocks podcast and just in time for the holiday weekend. Have you ever had a connection come full circle? ✨ I first met Shira Yevin at a breakfast for venture capitalists investing in female-owned businesses. Months later, her team came to her to recommend me to speak at one of her events. It was such a powerful reminder: you never know the impact you make—lasting impressions matter. Those are just the gritty facts. 💫 Now, on Episode 119 of Opportunity Knocks, Shira—musician, entrepreneur, founder of Gritty In Pink, and so much more—shares how she went from the Vans Warped Tour to being backed by Live Nation. Known for her relentless drive and ingenuity, Shira is transforming the industry for creatives with a bold mission: Creating a platform that amplifies women in music and beyond. 🎶🔥 Shira’s journey has grit written all over it. After noticing too few female musicians on stage, she turned frustration into fire—and built a movement to change the industry. Today, her vision is backed by Live Nation, one of the biggest players in entertainment, proving just how powerful her mission truly is. In this episode, Shira shares: ✨ How her east coast hustle and grind mentality led her to launch Gritty In Pink. ✨ The pivotal moment on Warped Tour that sparked her mission. ✨ What it means to be backed by Live Nation and scale her vision. ✨ Why connections and community matter. ✨ Advice for pursuing passion while building financial independence. Shira’s magnetic personality, sharp business instincts, and unstoppable energy shine through every story. 🎧 Tune in to hear how she’s breaking barriers, changing the industry, and why Gritty In Pink is just getting started. #OpportunityKnocksPodcast #EmpowHerPurpose #GrittyInPink #FemaleFounders #WomenInMusic #LiveNation #WomenSupportingWomen #Trailblazer #KeepGoingToKeepGrowing #VentureCapital #LastingImpressions #Podcast #WomenInMusic #LiveNation #FemaleFounders #OpportunityKnocksPodcast #Podcast #WomenInMusic #LiveNation #FemaleFounders #OpportunityKnocksPodcast

Guesss what? I have an Opportunity for YOU! 👏✨As we settle down into the Summer, I am so excited to share a new Opportunity Knocks 🎙️Episode 118: Be Confident! Let Your Breath Guide You. 💨🍃with the amazing Evie Jeang. Evie opens up about how becoming a single mother helped her reconnect to her emotional core after years of learning to “cut off” feelings to survive in a high-pressure legal world. Now, she’s developed a surrogacy app designed to help women build the families they’re ready for—on their own terms. Evie is a former lawyer and judge who developed her own surrogacy app, Surrogacy Concierge. We met last year at a wellness event and I am honored to have met her as I led her through one of my breathwork sessions. We take a deep dive into Evie’s career and her journey of being a single mother. ⚖️ Evie built a legal career rooted in integrity, emotional intelligence, and lived experience with over two decades of experience in family law. She uses her own childhood as a guide to better advocate for families navigating their most vulnerable moments given that she was raised by divorced parents. Her unique balance of deep understanding of family dynamics and methodical precision has made her a force in and out of the courtroom.  In this episode, we explore: • Emotional discipline is required in our careers and why self-trust is everything • How personal transformation begins with self-love 🫶 • Letting go of perfectionism and accepting yourself🙏 • Evolving the definition of family, and why love forms the deepest bonds, not biology Let’s take care of our minds and bodies! Log onto EmpowHer Purpose at https://www.empowherpurpose.com (https://www.empowherpurpose.com/) and learn more coaching, Breathwork and the Akashic Records.

I'm thrilled to release episode 117 of the “Opportunity Knocks” podcast. I had the pleasure of speaking with Linda Sivertsen, an accomplished author, book coach, and the creative force behind Beautiful Writers. Linda’s journey is a testament to the power of listening to intuition, trusting the creative process, and showing up for your dreams—no matter how impossible they may seem. She is also a fellow Trojan. Fight on! ✌️ And drumroll please, my writers coach! Yes, I have committed to getting started on writing my book. You see, we have many ideas, and all need to enlist support to get to our goals! I’m ecstatic! 🤩  In our interview, Linda shared how a vivid dream led her to write her first book, setting her on a path that would later include bestselling titles, high-profile collaborations, and coaching aspiring authors to bring their stories to life. Despite not seeing herself as an academic, Linda’s passion for storytelling and relentless commitment to craft have made her a sought-after guide in the publishing world.🌎 Throughout our conversation, we explored the emotional weight of writing, the importance of committing to creative goals, and how grief, change, and even unexpected life challenges can fuel transformation. Linda opened up about navigating a difficult divorce, balancing career ambitions with personal growth, and the reality of stepping away from a long-running retreat program to create space for new creative pursuits. Key takeaways from our conversation: • ✍️ Why every person has a book in them—and how to start writing it • ⏳ The truth about how long it really takes to write and publish a book • 💡 How intuition and dreams can guide the creative process • 🎭 Why humor and resilience are essential, even in life’s toughest moments • 📖 The power of writing as a healing tool—and how it can shape both personal and professional growth Linda’s wisdom is a reminder that the path to writing—and any creative endeavor—is not about perfection, but about persistence, passion, and trusting yourself. 🎧 Don’t miss this inspiring conversation with Linda Sivertsen. Tune in today! #WritingCommunity #Storytelling #PodcastEpisode #Inspiration #TrustTheProcess #PersonalGrowth #AuthorLife #BookWriting #Resilience #HealingThroughWriting