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What if a different approach to breast screening could find cancers that mammograms may miss? Long before becoming a physician, Dr. David Strahle was an avid pilot and flight instructor studying how aircraft radar could penetrate dense clouds that obscured severe thunderstorms. Decades later, he recognized a strikingly similar challenge in medicine: dense breast tissue can obscure cancers on mammograms. That insight led Dr. Strahle to investigate the role of breast MRI in detecting cancers earlier. His research and advocacy focus on screening effectiveness, affordability and expanding women’s access to choices beyond a traditional annual mammogram. Join Dr. Strahle and Katana as they discuss:Why some breast cancers may be missed by mammogramsHow breast MRI differs from mammography and where it may offer advantagesWhat his research suggests about earlier detection and potential cost considerationsHis proposal to give Michigan women an insurance-covered choice between annual mammography and breast MRI every other yearWhat women can ask their physicians about their personal screening needs and options Why This Matters: Women deserve clear information about the strengths and limitations of available screening tools. Dr. Strahle’s work invites a broader conversation about earlier detection, informed choice and the future of breast cancer screening. Research Resource: Dr. Strahle’s published research: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10549-017-4112-0 David Strahle, MD, is a retired diagnostic radiologist and former CEO of Regional Medical Imaging in Michigan. His work in breast imaging has focused on improving breast cancer detection, particularly for women with dense breast tissue. Dr. Strahle led research into abbreviated breast MRI, exploring whether a shorter MRI protocol could provide a more accessible approach to breast cancer screening. His research on a rapid breast MRI protocol was published in the medical literature after several years of study and development. An avid pilot and flight instructor, Dr. Strahle traces his interest in imaging through dense breast tissue to an unlikely source: his early work with aviation radar. In 1969, he wrote a research paper examining radar's ability to penetrate dense clouds obscuring severe thunderstorms—an experience he later connected to the challenge of detecting cancers obscured by dense breast tissue on mammograms. To learn more about Regional Medical Imaging, visit www.rmipc.net. DISCLAIMER: This program is provided for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice or as a substitute for professional medical care. The views and information shared by guests are their own and may not reflect current medical guidelines or the views of Smart Women Talk. Breast cancer screening recommendations vary based on age, breast density, personal and family history, individual risk factors, and other considerations. Always discuss your individual screening needs and options with a qualified healthcare professional.

Do you know your breast density and why it matters? Leslie Ferris Yerger received an “all clear” mammogram and ultrasound, yet was diagnosed with Stage IV breast cancer in November 2017. Her experience exposed a critical gap in breast cancer screening that many women still do not understand: dense breast tissue can make cancer more difficult to see on a mammogram. Determined to keep other women from experiencing the same devastating surprise, Leslie founded the nonprofit My Density Matters. Today, she is a TEDx speaker, author of Probably Benign and a passionate advocate helping women learn their breast density, understand their screening options and speak up for the additional care they may need. Join Leslie and Katana as they discuss:What breast density is and why every woman should know her densityHow dense breast tissue can affect what a mammogram revealsWhat questions to ask and what next steps to consider if you have dense breastsHow to advocate for yourself if you have difficulty obtaining the screening you needResources available through My Density Matters Why This Matters: Many women assume that an “all clear” mammogram means there is nothing more to consider. Leslie’s story reminds us that understanding our breast density and knowing which questions to ask can be an essential part of protecting our health. Free Resource: My Density Matters offers education and tools to help women understand breast density and discuss screening options with their healthcare providers: https://mydensitymatters.org/ Leslie’s book, Probably Benign: https://www.probablybenign.com/ Leslie Ferris Yerger is a TEDx speaker, author of Probably Benign, and women’s health advocate dedicated to improving breast cancer screening awareness. In November 2017, Leslie was diagnosed with Stage IV breast cancer just two months after receiving an “all clear” mammogram and ultrasound. Her experience with dense breasts and delayed detection became the catalyst for her advocacy work. As Founder and CEO of the nonprofit My Density Matters, Leslie is committed to empowering women to know their breast density, understand their screening options, and advocate for the additional screening they may need. Her mission is simple but deeply personal: to help ensure that her story does not become someone else’s story. To learn more about Leslie, visit mydensitymatter.org. This program is provided for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice or as a substitute for professional medical care. The views and information shared by guests are their own and may not reflect current medical guidelines or the views of Smart Women Talk. Breast cancer screening recommendations vary based on age, breast density, personal and family history, individual risk factors, and other considerations. Always discuss your individual screening needs and options with a qualified healthcare professional.

What happens when the life you thought was secure suddenly isn't? For Karin Kusano, starting over meant facing a reality she never expected. After discovering that she didn't have the financial independence she thought she had, she found herself rebuilding her life while raising four children—and wondering how she would create a secure future from where she stood. So she started learning. At her kitchen table, Karin began educating herself about financial markets and emerging technology. What started as a need to understand and protect her own financial future eventually became something much bigger—a new career, a new sense of purpose, and a powerful lesson in what can happen when a woman takes back control of her life. In this episode of Smart Women Talk, Katana and Karin explore:Why financial autonomy is about much more than moneyHow starting over forced Karin to rediscover her own strength and resourcefulnessWhy gaining knowledge gave her confidence when so much felt uncertainWhat rebuilding while raising four children taught her about resilienceHow the hardest chapter of her life ultimately opened the door to an entirely new futureWhy reinvention doesn't always mean becoming someone new—it can mean reclaiming the woman who was there all alongSometimes starting over isn't the end of the life you planned. It can be the beginning of a life you finally get to choose. Tune in and discover what can happen when you stop underestimating yourself and start taking back your power. Karin Kusano, known as “Cryptomommi,” is a crypto market strategist, educator, and advocate for financial autonomy. A single mother of four, Karin’s work is deeply personal. After experiencing financial coercion that left her without access to bank accounts, she discovered crypto, blockchain, and self-custody—and a new way to take control of her financial future. Today, Karin uses that experience to educate others, particularly vulnerable populations, about financial sovereignty and the opportunities offered by digital assets. She became the first female retail crypto trader honored at NASDAQ for providing digital-asset microloans to women entrepreneurs through the United Nations. Karin also consults with decentralized exchanges and AI trading firms, serves as Texas Chapter President of the Association for Women in Crypto, and speaks on behalf of the National Cryptocurrency Association. This fall, she begins pursuing her J.D. at the University of Dayton School of Law. To learn more about Karin, visit karinkusano.com. Disclaimer: The information shared in this episode is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, tax, legal, or retirement planning advice. Every individual's financial situation is unique. Before making decisions regarding your investments, Social Security, Medicare, or retirement income, please consult with qualified financial, tax, or legal professionals who can provide guidance based on your personal circumstances.

What if the pieces of your life that didn't go according to plan were actually leading you somewhere better? Amy Peterson had a dream. From the age of 14, she wanted to become the first female general manager of a Major League Baseball team. She built her education around that goal, fought her way into professional baseball, and eventually became an attorney for the Detroit Tigers. But the career she thought was her calling ultimately led her to something very different. In this episode of Smart Women Talk, Katana sits down with Amy, Founder and CEO of Rebel Nell, a Detroit social enterprise that transforms fallen graffiti into beautiful jewelry while creating employment and opportunity for women facing barriers to work. You'll discover:How Amy turned discarded pieces of Detroit graffiti into a business built around purposeWhat the women of Rebel Nell taught her about resilience, confidence, and second chancesWhy the systems designed to help women escape poverty can sometimes make moving forward even harderHow creativity and meaningful work can help women rediscover their confidence and worthWhat Amy learned when the career she'd dreamed about since childhood wasn't ultimately where she found her purposeAt Rebel Nell, there's a rule: never fall in love with the top layer—it's what's underneath that matters. That's pretty good advice for jewelry. It may be even better advice for life. Tune in and discover what can happen when we look beyond the surface, reclaim the pieces, and create something beautiful from what we find. Amy Peterson is the Founder and CEO of Rebel Nell, a women-owned social enterprise that transforms reclaimed materials into meaningful jewelry and gifts while creating employment, opportunity, and support for women facing barriers to work. Inspired by the stories and resilience of women living in a nearby shelter, Amy built Rebel Nell on the belief that business can be a powerful force for social change—combining workforce development with creativity, purpose, and economic empowerment. A former attorney for the Detroit Tigers and executive with RISE, Amy has built a career at the intersection of business, community impact, and social change. She also co-founded The Congregation and The Rectory, two projects dedicated to breathing new life into community spaces in Detroit. To learn more about Amy, visit rebelnell.com.

What if your best years are still ahead? For many women, getting older comes with an unspoken expectation that it's time to slow down, play it safe, and accept that certain adventures belong to a younger version of ourselves. Dr. Peggi Tabor has a very different idea. At 82, Peggi is training as a competitive swimmer, recently returned from scuba diving in the Red Sea, and is already planning her next diving adventure. And this isn't a new philosophy for her—at 60, she left behind a successful corporate career and joined the Peace Corps, spending two years serving in a remote village in Africa. In this episode of Smart Women Talk, Katana sits down with Peggi to explore how we can stay active, curious, connected, and excited about life at every age. You'll discover: Why staying active becomes even more important as we ageHow meaningful relationships can influence our health and happinessSimple practices for managing stress and responding to life's challengesWhy gratitude, mindfulness, and lifelong learning matterHow purpose—big or small—gives us a reason to keep moving forwardWhy it's never too late to try something new, challenge yourself, or plan your next adventureYour age doesn't determine how fully you get to live. And if you've ever wondered whether your best years are behind you, Peggi has two words for you: Think again. Tune in and discover how to make the years ahead some of your very best. Dr. Peggi Tabor is a credentialed integrated wellness coach, educator, and lifelong advocate for personal growth and healthy aging. After a successful career with Xerox, where she designed and delivered training programs for managers in the United States and internationally, Peggi embarked on a very different kind of chapter. At age 60, she joined the Peace Corps and spent two years serving in Lesotho, Africa, where she worked alongside traditional healers to help address the HIV/AIDS epidemic and supported local communities in establishing small businesses. Peggi holds an MBA in Marketing and Communications, an MS in Metaphysical Science, and a PhD in Philosophy. Today, she continues to inspire others to stay curious, active, engaged, and purposeful at every stage of life. You can reach out to Peggi at [email protected].

What if the best investment you could make isn't in things—but in experiences? So many of us dream about traveling "someday." Someday when life slows down. Someday when the kids are older. Someday when retirement finally arrives. But what if someday is today? In this episode of Smart Women Talk, Katana Abbott sits down with storyteller and worldschooling advocate Lauren Ferrara to explore how one family's decision to spend a month each year living abroad transformed the way they travel, parent, and experience life. You'll discover: Why meaningful travel is about connection—not checking destinations off a listHow cultural immersion helps children (and adults) see the world differentlyWhy experiences often create stronger family bonds than material thingsHow travel can strengthen relationships and shift your perspective on what really mattersSimple ways to begin your own adventure—without waiting for retirementYou don't have to sell everything you own or travel the world for years. Sometimes all it takes is deciding that "someday" starts now. Tune in and discover why the best time to create meaningful memories may be sooner than you think. Lauren Ferrara is a storyteller, former television news anchor, and founder of Why Wait Stories, a documentary film company dedicated to preserving family histories through beautifully crafted legacy films. After nearly 15 years in broadcast journalism, Lauren shifted her focus from reporting the news to capturing the stories that matter most—helping families preserve their memories and connect across generations. Lauren and her husband are raising two daughters in Colorado Springs, Colorado, where they have embraced worldschooling as a way to learn beyond the classroom. Each year, the family spends a month living and learning abroad, immersing themselves in local cultures, languages, and communities. From Guatemala to Peru, their travels have reinforced Lauren's belief that some of life's greatest lessons come from curiosity, stepping outside your comfort zone, and seeing the world through someone else's eyes. Learn more about Lauren at whywaitstories.com. Resources mentioned by Laura: Worldschoolers Facebook GroupsDeliberate Detour - https://deliberatedetour.com/Culture Chalk - https://www.culturechalk.org/

What if one decision could increase your retirement income for the rest of your life?   In this eye-opening episode of Smart Women Talk, Katana Abbott sits down with nationally recognized Social Security expert and Certified Financial Planner™ Mary Beth Franklin to help women understand one of the most important financial decisions they'll ever make—when to claim Social Security benefits.   From choosing the right claiming age to understanding special rules for married, divorced, and widowed women, Mary Beth explains how thoughtful planning can help maximize lifetime income while avoiding costly mistakes that could permanently reduce your benefits.   You'll discover: Why retirement and claiming Social Security are two separate decisionsHow your claiming age can dramatically affect your lifetime incomeSpecial claiming strategies for married, divorced, and widowed womenCommon Social Security mistakes—and how to avoid themHow to maximize survivor benefits for your familyImportant changes under the Social Security Fairness ActWhen a Social Security "do-over" may still be possible   Whether retirement is just around the corner or still years away, this conversation provides practical guidance every woman should understand before filing for benefits.   The decisions you make today could impact your retirement income for decades to come.   Mary Beth Franklin is a Certified Financial Planner™ professional, veteran financial journalist, and nationally recognized expert on Social Security, Medicare, and retirement income planning. Based in Washington, D.C., she has spent decades helping Americans make informed financial decisions through her writing, speaking, and educational programs. Mary Beth is a sought-after speaker on Social Security and Medicare, a former columnist for InvestmentNews, former Tax and Retirement Editor at Kiplinger Personal Finance, and former congressional correspondent for United Press International. She is also a frequent guest on radio and television programs and hosted the popular Retirement Repair Shop podcast for seven seasons.   To learn more about Mary Beth, visit www.marybethfranklin.com. Smart Women Talk Disclaimer: The information shared in this episode is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, tax, legal, Medicare, Social Security, or retirement planning advice. Every individual's circumstances are unique. Before making decisions regarding your investments, retirement income, or government benefits, please consult with qualified professionals who can provide guidance based on your personal goals and financial situation.

What if market uncertainty didn't have to keep you up at night? In this timely episode of Smart Women Talk, Katana Abbott sits down with Portfolio Manager Sweta Singh to cut through the financial headlines and help women better understand today's changing economic landscape.   From inflation and interest rates to market volatility and diversification, Sweta shares practical strategies for growing and protecting wealth with confidence.   You'll discover:   Why trying to time the market is one of the biggest investing mistakesHow to stay calm and confident during periods of market volatilityThe important role bonds and fixed income can play in today's economyWhy diversification remains one of the most effective long-term investment strategiesHow to align your investments with your goals, time horizon, and risk toleranceWhy staying invested is often the key to building long-term wealth   Whether you're actively growing your investments or preparing for retirement, this conversation offers practical insights to help you make informed financial decisions and feel more confident about your financial future.   Sweta Singh is the Co-Founder and Chief Investment Officer of City Different Investments, bringing more than 20 years of experience in fixed income investing, portfolio management, and financial markets. After immigrating to the United States, she earned two degrees and was awarded a fellowship with New York State's Debt Division, where she gained extensive experience in public finance and debt issuance. She went on to build a distinguished career as a bond analyst and portfolio manager with leading investment firms, including Wellington Management, Breckinridge Capital Advisors, Wilkins Investment Council, and Thornburg Investment Management. Passionate about helping investors navigate changing markets with confidence, Sweta co-founded City Different Investments in 2021. She lives and works in the Boston area and serves as Treasurer of the Brookline Education Foundation.   To learn more about Sweta, visit www.citydifferentinvestments.com.   Smart Women Talk Disclaimer: The information shared in this episode is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, tax, legal, Medicare, Social Security, or retirement planning advice. Every individual's circumstances are unique. Before making decisions regarding your investments, retirement income, or government benefits, please consult with qualified professionals who can provide guidance based on your personal goals and financial situation. City Different Investments Disclaimer: Statements in this video are made as of the date of publication, and are subject to change without notice. Discussion and information presented in this video should not be construed as the provision of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from City Different Investments. To the extent that the viewer has any questions regarding the applicability of this discussion/information to his/her individual situation, he/she is encouraged to consult with the professional advisor of his/her choosing. Any projections, market outlooks, or estimates in this piece are forward-looking statements and are based upon certain assumptions. Other events that were not taken into account may occur and may significantly affect the returns or performance of these investments. Any projections, outlooks, or assumptions should not be construed to be indicative of the actual events which will occur. These projections, market outlooks, or estimates are subject to change without notice. Please remember that past performance may not be indicative of future results. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and there can be no assurance that the future performance of any specific investment, investment strategy, product or any non-investment-related content, made reference to directly or indirectly in this newsletter will be profitable, equal to any corresponding indicated historical performance level(s), be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation or prove successful. Due to various factors, including changing market conditions and/or applicable laws, the content may no longer be reflective of current opinions or positions. Specific securities identified do not represent all the securities purchased, sold, or recommended for the strategy. Do not assume any securities identified were or will be profitable. City Different Investments accepts no liability whatsoever, whether direct or indirect, that may arise from the use of information in this material. City Different Investments can in no way be held responsible for any decision or investment made based on information contained in this material.

What if your next chapter isn't about slowing down—but about finally creating a life and career you truly love? In this inspiring episode of Smart Women Talk, Katana Abbott sits down with Career Transition Coach and author Shannon Russell for an empowering conversation about reinvention, second-act careers, and designing a life aligned with your passions and purpose. Whether you're feeling restless in your current career, dreaming about starting a business, or wondering what comes next, this episode explores how women can leverage decades of experience to create meaningful work and fulfilling lives. You'll discover: How to successfully transition into a second—or even third—act careerHow to identify and leverage the skills and experience you already possessWhy fear and uncertainty are normal parts of the reinvention processPractical steps you can take to begin creating a life you love - How other women have successfully made the leap into something newWhy it's never too late to pursue work that feels purposeful and inspiring Plus, Shannon shares real-world examples and encouraging insights that prove reinvention isn't just possible—it may be exactly what this season of life is calling you toward. This is one of those conversations that may completely change the way you think about your next chapter.  Shannon Russell is a Television Producer turned Entrepreneur and Career Transition/Business Coach. She is also an Exit Strategy Expert, YouMap® Coach, Author, Speaker, and Host of the Second Act Success Career Podcast and the How To Quit Your Job and Start A Business Podcast. Shannon supports women who are unhappy with their 9-5 jobs as they pivot towards a "second act," building a business and being their own boss. She provides exit strategy guidance and helps her clients transition from employees to entrepreneurs. Shannon began her career by spending over 16 years as a television producer in New York City and Los Angeles, working for MTV, E!, Yahoo!, Pop Sugar, A&E, TLC, VH1, etc. She then pivoted to open her own business, running a Snapology franchise that teaches children STEM education so that she could be more present for her children. As a certified Career/Business Coach, Shannon supports women as they change careers, start businesses, and follow their passions to the fullest. Shannon’s motto is "produce your best life!" Her company, Second Act Success®, allows her to share her journey and experience as a television executive turned business owner and mom with others.  Shannon's mission is to motivate more women to make big life moves. She does so through her coaching practice, podcast, speaking engagements, and book, Start Your Second Act: How to Change Careers, Launch a Business, and Create Your Best Life. To learn more about Shannon, visit www.secondactsuccess.co.

What will work look like in the next chapter of your life? And where do women fit into today’s rapidly changing economy? In this fascinating conversation, Katana Abbott speaks with Corinne Goble, CEO of the Association of Women Business Centers, about the growing opportunities for women entrepreneurs — and the critical mistakes many women make when starting and scaling a business. Corinne shares her remarkable personal journey from growing up in a motorcycle gang environment to leading a national organization supporting women-owned businesses across America. Together, she and Katana explore how women are redefining entrepreneurship, innovation, and leadership in today’s economy. They discuss emerging opportunities in AI, the care economy, social impact businesses, technology-driven entrepreneurship, and why women may be uniquely positioned to thrive in this next era of business. You’ll also hear practical advice about: Why business planning matters more than passion aloneThe biggest funding mistakes women entrepreneurs makeHow personal credit can impact future business growthThe difference between creating a business versus creating a jobWhy understanding your numbers builds confidenceHow technology is lowering barriers for women entrepreneursWhy the “care economy” may become one of the biggest growth sectors of the future Corinne also introduces listeners to Hope2Women.org, a national gateway connecting women to coaching, training, funding resources, and Women’s Business Centers across the country.  Whether you’re launching a business, considering a second-act career, or simply curious about where the economy is heading, this episode offers powerful insight, inspiration, and practical wisdom for women ready to build what’s next.  Corinne Goble is the CEO of the Association of Women Business Centers, a national organization supporting a network of more than 140 Women’s Business Centers across the United States. With a background spanning entrepreneurship, corporate leadership, and nonprofit advocacy, Corinne is passionate about helping women launch, grow, and scale successful businesses. She is a national voice on women’s entrepreneurship, innovation, access to capital, and the future of women in the economy.  You can learn more about Corrine at Hope2Women.org.  Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. The views, opinions, experiences, and recommendations expressed by the host and guests are not intended as financial, investment, legal, tax, business, medical, or other professional advice. Every individual's circumstances are unique, and listeners should consult qualified professionals before making decisions related to their finances, business ventures, investments, health, or legal matters. Smart Women Talk is designed to inspire conversation, learning, and personal growth, and any actions taken based on the content of this program are solely the responsibility of the listener.

What if aging isn’t about slowing down—but about stepping into one of the most powerful and purposeful stages of life? In this episode of Smart Women Talk, Katana Abbott welcomes longevity expert, author, and co-founder of Age Wave, Maddy Dychtwald, for a conversation about what it really means to live well—not just longer. Drawing from decades of research and her new book Ageless Aging, Maddy shares how women can take a more holistic approach to longevity—focusing not only on lifespan, but on healthspan and brainspan. In this episode, you’ll discover:The difference between lifespan and healthspan—and why it mattersWhy women live longer but often face more health challengesThe powerful role of purpose in longevity and well-beingSimple daily habits that support brain health, energy, and vitalityWhy connection, mindset, sleep, and movement all play a critical roleThis inspiring and practical conversation offers a fresh perspective on aging—one that empowers women to make small, intentional choices that can lead to a longer, healthier, and more fulfilling life. You can learn more about Maddy at MaddyDychtwald.com. The information shared in this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. The host and guests are not providing diagnosis or treatment recommendations for any individual. Individual health needs vary, and listeners should consult their healthcare provider before making any medical decisions or changes to their care. Reliance on any information provided in this episode is solely at your own risk.

After decades of confusion and controversy around menopause, what’s actually true about hormones—and what’s not? In this episode of Smart Women Talk, Katana Abbott sits down with Dr. Jerrold H. Weinberg, OB-GYN and author of Menopause Mended, to explore what really happens during menopause and why so many women feel like they’ve lost a part of themselves. With over 25 years of clinical experience and a focus on menopause care, Dr. Weinberg shares his perspective on hormone health, the role of bioidentical hormone therapy, and how hormonal changes impact not just the body—but also the brain, mood, and overall quality of life. In this conversation, you’ll learn:Why menopause symptoms go far beyond hot flashesThe difference between traditional and bioidentical hormone therapyHow hormones affect brain function, sleep, mood, and energyThe connection between menopause and bone healthWhy many women feel “off”—and what options may be availableThis is an informative and thought-provoking conversation designed to help women better understand their bodies, ask informed questions, and explore what support may be right for them. You can learn more about Dr. Weinberg at JHWeinbergMD.com. The information shared in this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. The host and guests are not providing diagnosis or treatment recommendations for any individual. Individual health needs vary, and listeners should consult their healthcare provider before making any medical decisions or changes to their care. Reliance on any information provided in this episode is solely at your own risk.

What if everything you’ve built—your ideas, your leadership, your voice—didn’t just disappear once the moment passed? In this episode of Smart Women Talk, host Katana Abbott sits down with Kristin Thomas, founder of Marble Collective, an innovative AI-powered platform designed to preserve, connect, and amplify the work of women leaders. After two decades in luxury real estate, Kristin saw firsthand how even the most accomplished women struggle to stay visible in a world that demands constant self-promotion. Her solution? A centralized platform that captures the full body of a woman’s work—podcasts, interviews, articles, and more—making it easy to discover, follow, and learn from inspiring leaders across industries. Together, they explore: Why women’s leadership is often overlooked or lost over timeThe hidden cost of constant self-promotionHow mentorship can be scaled to reach thousands—not just a select fewThe role of AI in reshaping visibility, influence, and accessWhy connection—not competition—is the key to advancing womenIf you’ve ever struggled to stay visible, find mentors, or cut through the noise, this conversation will completely shift how you think about leadership and learning. 🔗 Learn more: marblecollective.com About Kristin Thomas: Kristin Thomas is the founder of Marble Collective, an AI-powered platform designed to preserve, amplify, and elevate women’s leadership. Backed by more than 300 women leaders, Marble is creating a new way to make women’s work and impact more visible and enduring. A seasoned entrepreneur, Kristin spent two decades in real estate, launching her own investment business before founding a luxury brokerage in Manhattan that was later acquired. She went on to serve as Director of Sales, was an early agent at Compass, and joined the advisory board of the Hudson Advisory Team, one of New York’s top residential real estate groups. Kristin also serves on the boards of Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory and Youth & Family Counseling Agency. Through Marble, she is building a global platform to ensure women’s stories, leadership, and impact are seen, shared, and remembered. You can connect with Kristin at MarbleCollective.com.

What if the experience and connections you’ve built over a lifetime are actually the key to unlocking your next opportunity? In a world where job boards feel like a black hole and AI is changing the rules overnight, it’s easy to wonder where you fit—and how to move forward with confidence. In this episode of Smart Women Talk, Katana sits down with Katie Fortunato, co-founder of Higher Innovations, to cut through the noise and reveal what’s really driving opportunity today—and how you can use it to your advantage. You’ll discover: Why most jobs are never posted—and how to access the hidden marketHow your network can open doors faster than any résumé ever willThe real role of mentorship—and how to step into it at any stageWhat AI actually means for your career (and how to stay relevant)Simple ways to turn your experience into meaningful work and income This isn’t about starting over. It’s about building forward—with everything you already have. Tune in now and start seeing your next chapter in a whole new way. Katie Fortunato is Co-founder and EVP of Platform Innovation and Strategy at Hire Innovations, a global leader in human-centered AI talent technologies. She drives innovation across a portfolio of brands—including Recruitics, Talivity, and Jobstream—helping the world’s largest organizations modernize hiring while keeping people at the center. In 2023, Katie launched Talivity, one of the fastest-growing communities for people leaders, and established the company’s Innovation Lab. Her latest venture, Jobstream (2026), is pioneering a new category in job discovery—connecting talent and opportunity through social platforms with transparent creator monetization. Prior to entrepreneurship, Katie built brand experiences for MTV, AOL, and The Wall Street Journal, where she led the publication’s first live video brand experience and developed strategic growth partnerships to drive new revenue streams.Katie also serves as President of the Onward & Upward Foundation and sits on the Board of the American Red Cross Metro NY North Chapter. She splits her time between New York City and Greenwich, Connecticut. You can connect with Katie at GetJobStream.com.

Is it Time to Eat More Plants? with Vicki Brett-Gach With so many conflicting diet trends—from keto to carnivore to plant-based—it’s no wonder people feel overwhelmed about what to eat. In this episode of Smart Women Talk, host Katana Abbott sits down with certified vegan lifestyle coach, culinary instructor, and author Vicki Brett-Gach to cut through the noise and explore a simple question: Should we be eating more plants? Vicki shares her personal journey from a traditional American diet to a plant-based lifestyle, inspired by her family’s health history and a desire to improve long-term wellness. Together, they dive into: The real impact of food on chronic disease and inflammationWhy dairy (especially cheese) can be surprisingly addictiveThe role of gut health and the microbiome in overall wellnessWhat “whole food plant-based” actually meansThe most nutrient-dense foods you should be eating (hint: greens and beans)How to transition your diet—without overwhelmPractical tips for eating healthy at home, while traveling, or dining outWhether you're plant-curious or ready to make a change, this conversation will give you clarity, confidence, and a realistic path forward—one plate at a time. Vicki Brett-Gach is a Master-Certified Vegan Lifestyle Coach, plant-based culinary instructor, certified personal chef, and author of The Plant-Based for Life Cookbook. She holds certifications in Wellness Counseling from Cornell University, Plant-Based Nutrition from the T. Colin Campbell Center for Nutrition Studies, and Culinary Coaching through Harvard Medical School and the Institute of Lifestyle Medicine. Vicki’s recipes and expertise have been featured in Forks Over Knives Magazine, Health Science, VegWorld Magazine, and Global Vegan Magazine. Through her coaching and classes, she helps individuals and groups transition to a whole-food, plant-based lifestyle with practical, approachable strategies that support long-term health. You can connect with Vicki and explore her recipes at her popular blog, Ann Arbor Vegan Kitchen.