Episodes

  • Love Shapes the Heart | Amanda K. Foust | Entrepreneur, Coach, Author & Adoption Advocate

    Love Shapes the Heart | Amanda K. Foust | Entrepreneur, Coach, Author & Adoption Advocate
    Oct 22 2025
    Amanda K. Foust is an entrepreneur, marketing expert, coach, author, and the creator of the High Performance Planner. She’s also a devoted mom to a beautifully blended family of both adopted and biological children—and she’s back on the Powerful Ladies Podcast to share the deeply personal side of her journey. In this episode, Amanda joins Kara to talk about love, family, and what it really means to open your heart to adoption. They dive into the realities of raising an interracial family, navigating trauma, understanding attachment, and knowing when you’re truly ready to adopt. Amanda also shares the inspiration behind her children’s book, Love Shapes the Heart, a powerful story about identity, diversity, and belonging. If you’ve ever considered adoption, are building a family of your own, or simply want to be reminded of the transformative power of love, this episode is one you won’t want to miss. Chapters: 00:00 Family Adventures and Intentional Parenting 03:04 The Journey of Adoption 06:00 Navigating Interracial Family Dynamics 08:51 The Challenges of Trauma in Adoption 11:59 Finding Joy in Parenting 14:58 The Importance of Community Support 17:51 Integrating Biological and Adopted Children 20:50 The Financial Aspects of Adoption 24:43 Understanding Financial Hurdles in Parenting 27:08 The Role of Community in Adoption 30:09 Courage and the Adoption Journey 32:42 Overcoming Challenges in International Adoption 36:36 The Impact of Parenting Styles on Children 40:33 Budgeting for Family Expenses 42:25 The Evolution of Parenting in Modern Times 45:28 Supporting Each Other in the Adoption Process The Powerful Ladies podcast, hosted by business coach and strategist Kara Duffy features candid conversations with entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, chefs, writers, scientists, and more. Every Wednesday, new episodes explore what it means to lead with purpose, create with intention, and define success on your own terms. Whether you're growing a business, changing careers, or asking bigger questions, these stories remind you: you're not alone, and you're more powerful than you think. Explore more at thepowerfulladies.com and karaduffy.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    52 mins
  • Start Living Audaciously | Marty McDonald | CEO and Founder of Boss Women Media & Elle Olivia

    Start Living Audaciously | Marty McDonald | CEO and Founder of Boss Women Media & Elle Olivia
    Oct 15 2025
    Marty McDonald embodies what it means to live audaciously. As founder of Boss Women Media, she leads a powerful community that empowers women to step into their brands, claim thought leadership, and go after big goals with confidence. In this episode, Kara and Marty talk about why being audacious is the key to creating extraordinary outcomes, how to inspire others through leadership, and what it takes to turn vision into action. You’ll hear about Marty’s latest ventures, from launching Elle Olivia—a clothing brand for toddlers now in Target—to her upcoming book Audacious releasing in Fall 2025. This episode explores bold leadership, women’s empowerment, and the possibilities that open up when you dare to dream bigger. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Audacity 00:20 Meet Marni McDonald 01:36 Marni's Journey and Achievements 04:08 Defining Audacity 09:40 Raising Audacious Kids 13:40 Building a Community 21:23 Vision and Impact 25:39 The Unspoken Strategy of Faith 26:03 Unexpected Opportunities and Leaving Space 26:46 Hustle vs. Expectation 27:19 The Power of Surrender 28:22 Alignment and Magnetism 30:06 The Reciprocity of Engagement 34:38 Balancing Business and Family 36:12 The Resilience of Women 39:32 Advocating for Yourself and Others 44:11 The Audacity to Expect 47:19 Manifesting Success and Community Support 50:55 Conclusion and Call to Action The Powerful Ladies podcast, hosted by business coach and strategist Kara Duffy features candid conversations with entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, chefs, writers, scientists, and more. Every Wednesday, new episodes explore what it means to lead with purpose, create with intention, and define success on your own terms. Whether you're growing a business, changing careers, or asking bigger questions, these stories remind you: you're not alone, and you're more powerful than you think. Explore more at thepowerfulladies.com and karaduffy.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    54 mins
  • A Powerful Culture Starts With You | Shahrzad Nooravi | Author & Organizational Therapist

    A Powerful Culture Starts With You | Shahrzad Nooravi | Author & Organizational Therapist
    Oct 8 2025
    Dr. Shahrzad Nooravi is on a mission to help leaders build the cultures they truly want. As an author and organizational psychologist, she teaches executives how to design, create, and sustain workplaces where people thrive. In this episode, Kara and Shahrzad talk about why culture is never an accident, how leaders can intentionally shape it, and the difference between cultures that flourish and those that falter. You’ll hear practical strategies for building environments where employees feel engaged, supported, and inspired. This episode explores leadership, intentional culture design, and the power of shaping workplaces on purpose. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Mindset Shift 00:20 Meet Dr. Shahrzad Nooravi 00:25 The Importance of Workplace Culture 01:32 Creating a Powerful Culture 05:12 Common Mistakes in Building Culture 12:44 Generational Differences in the Workplace 16:17 Navigating DEI Challenges 22:48 Self-Care for Leaders 28:51 Dr. Nooravi Career Journey 39:00 Defining Powerful Ladies 40:54 Conclusion and Farewell The Powerful Ladies podcast, hosted by business coach and strategist Kara Duffy features candid conversations with entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, chefs, writers, scientists, and more. Every Wednesday, new episodes explore what it means to lead with purpose, create with intention, and define success on your own terms. Whether you're growing a business, changing careers, or asking bigger questions, these stories remind you: you're not alone, and you're more powerful than you think. Explore more at thepowerfulladies.com and karaduffy.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    49 mins
  • From Hollywood to Beauty CEO | Rebecca Rittenhouse | Actress, Producer & Founder of Privet Beauty

    From Hollywood to Beauty CEO | Rebecca Rittenhouse | Actress, Producer & Founder of Privet Beauty
    Oct 1 2025
    Rebecca Rittenhouse is best known for her roles in Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, The Mindy Project, and Maggie, but she’s now adding “beauty entrepreneur” to her creative empire. In this episode, Rebecca joins Kara to share the behind-the-scenes of launching Privet Beauty, a brow-focused brand born from her passion for artistry, clean beauty, and independence. They dive into the challenges of starting a company, navigating acting and producing while building a business, managing overwhelm, and why creating your own opportunities is the ultimate power move. If you’re balancing multiple dreams, craving creative control, or looking for the courage to start something new, this conversation will inspire you to say yes, even when it’s uncomfortable. Chapters: 00:00 PLP-Rebecca Rittenhouse 00:02 Introduction 02:05 Meet Rebecca Rittenhouse 02:32 Launching Pritt Beauty 03:43 Balancing Multiple Careers 05:15 Why Start a Beauty Brand? 09:38 Taking Control as an Artist 10:57 Building a Business from Scratch 13:11 What Makes Pritt Beauty Unique 15:25 The Hero Product: Clear Brow Gel 16:46 Korean Beauty Innovation 33:55 Early Passion for Beauty 44:18 Excitement for Future Products 45:37 Managing Perfectionism and Mistakes 50:04 Work-Life Balance and Boundaries 51:08 Wrapping up the conversation in Career Pivot Moments The Powerful Ladies podcast, hosted by business coach and strategist Kara Duffy features candid conversations with entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, chefs, writers, scientists, and more. Every Wednesday, new episodes explore what it means to lead with purpose, create with intention, and define success on your own terms. Whether you're growing a business, changing careers, or asking bigger questions, these stories remind you: you're not alone, and you're more powerful than you think. Explore more at thepowerfulladies.com and karaduffy.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    53 mins
  • Empowering Women Leaders Through Transformational Coaching | April Diaz | Executive Coach & Leadership Developer

    Empowering Women Leaders Through Transformational Coaching | April Diaz | Executive Coach & Leadership Developer
    Sep 24 2025
    April Diaz is an executive coach helping leaders transform from the inside out. Working with Olympians, professional athletes, and corporate professionals, she focuses on building courage, resilience, and the personal foundations that make lasting impact possible. In this episode, Kara and April talk about why self-work is the heart of leadership, how transformation happens at both individual and group levels, and the strategies that drive real results. You’ll hear how April’s approach empowers her clients to lead with authenticity, why aligned values matter in coaching, and how you can take practical steps today to uplevel your own leadership. This episode explores transformational leadership, resilience, and the power of personal growth. Time Stamps: 00:00 Guest Introduction: April Diaz 03:45 April's Coaching Philosophy 06:32 Holistic Leadership Approach 07:46 Challenges and Transformations 23:00 The Importance of Courage and Curiosity 25:07 Exploring Courage and Self-Perception 25:54 The Importance of Dedication and Grit 28:29 The Power of Mantras and Focus 30:24 Defining Powerful Women 31:46 Challenges of Pregnancy and Work 32:50 Describing the Ideal Client 35:55 Coaching Athletes vs. Professionals 37:04 The Importance of Seasons and Structure 41:50 Holistic Leadership and Physical Well-being 44:27 Future Goals and Community Support 48:00 Closing Remarks and Future Plans The Powerful Ladies podcast, hosted by business coach and strategist Kara Duffy features candid conversations with entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, chefs, writers, scientists, and more. Every Wednesday, new episodes explore what it means to lead with purpose, create with intention, and define success on your own terms. Whether you're growing a business, changing careers, or asking bigger questions, these stories remind you: you're not alone, and you're more powerful than you think. Explore more at thepowerfulladies.com and karaduffy.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    49 mins
  • Bridging the Legal Gap for Vulnerable Communities | Kate Marr | Executive Director, Community Legal Aid SoCal

    Bridging the Legal Gap for Vulnerable Communities | Kate Marr | Executive Director, Community Legal Aid SoCal
    Sep 17 2025
    Kate Marr is on a mission to make justice accessible for everyone. As Executive Director of Community Legal Aid SoCal, she leads a team of attorneys tackling issues from housing and immigration to domestic violence, health, and consumer rights. In this episode, Kara and Kate talk about why knowing your rights is key to empowerment, how legal aid transforms lives, and the hidden barriers many low-income families face. You’ll hear how Kate’s leadership is giving citizens their power back, what it takes to serve an entire community’s legal needs, and why access and privilege often determine life’s outcomes. This episode explores legal equity, community empowerment, and the fight to make justice a right—not a privilege. Time Stamps: 01:43 Welcome to the Powerful Ladies Podcast 01:56 Meet Kate Mar: Executive Director at Community Legal Aid SoCal 02:16 Understanding Community Legal Aid SoCal 03:03 The Legal Aid Gap and Services Provided 06:03 Challenges and Real-Life Examples 07:49 The Importance of Knowing Your Rights 09:56 Economic Realities and Legal Aid 11:52 Mental Resiliency and Case Management 18:02 Fundraising and Financial Challenges 22:40 The Impact of Legal Aid and Personal Reflections 25:38 The Power of Collective Effort 26:51 Early Aspirations and Career Path 30:11 Channeling Rage into Positive Action 32:34 The Importance of Community Support 36:44 Global Perspectives on Leadership and Resilience 44:50 Innovative Legal Aid Initiatives 48:29 The Role of AI in Legal Services 50:11 Final Thoughts and Ways to Connect The Powerful Ladies podcast, hosted by business coach and strategist Kara Duffy features candid conversations with entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, chefs, writers, scientists, and more. Every Wednesday, new episodes explore what it means to lead with purpose, create with intention, and define success on your own terms. Whether you're growing a business, changing careers, or asking bigger questions, these stories remind you: you're not alone, and you're more powerful than you think. Explore more at thepowerfulladies.com and karaduffy.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    52 mins
  • Navigating Life’s Transitions with Clarity | Sarah Auda | CEO of Three Beats Consulting

    Navigating Life’s Transitions with Clarity | Sarah Auda | CEO of Three Beats Consulting
    Sep 10 2025
    Sarah Auda is a Los Angeles–based coach and consultant who helps women navigate the big shifts in life and work with clarity, courage, and purpose. After a series of personal losses reshaped her priorities, Sarah rebuilt her career around integrity and helping others do the same. In this episode, Kara and Sarah get real about the messy middle of transitions—balancing professionalism and motherhood, simplifying when life feels overwhelming, and asking the essential questions that lead to real growth. From powerful self-reflection exercises to stories that stick with you, this is an honest, practical, and inspiring conversation for anyone ready to align their life with their deepest values. Chapters: 00:00 Leaving Corporate Life: A Journey of Self-Discovery 00:19 Meet Sarah Auda: Founder of Three Beats Consulting 02:14 The Reality of Balancing Professionalism and Motherhood 06:05 The Impact of Death on Life Choices 08:11 Transitioning from Corporate to Entrepreneurship 11:21 The Power of Self-Trust and Experimentation 20:03 The Importance of Alignment in Life and Business 24:28 The Role of Coaches in Personal and Professional Growth 32:22 Embracing Simplicity and Legacy in Later Life 33:10 Embracing Abundance and Support 34:11 The Miracle Inventory: Recognizing Life's Gifts 34:54 Data-Driven Confidence: Owning Your Achievements 35:33 Navigating Uncertainty: Trusting the Process 38:01 The Power of Community and Support 39:24 Breaking Out of the Fog: Finding Clarity 40:32 The Importance of Coaching and Mentorship 48:06 Exploring Desires and Dreams 51:21 Creating a Life Aligned with Values 57:18 The Power of Quiet and Reflection 59:46 Final Thoughts and Call to Action The Powerful Ladies podcast, hosted by business coach and strategist Kara Duffy features candid conversations with entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, chefs, writers, scientists, and more. Every Wednesday, new episodes explore what it means to lead with purpose, create with intention, and define success on your own terms. Whether you're growing a business, changing careers, or asking bigger questions, these stories remind you: you're not alone, and you're more powerful than you think. Explore more at thepowerfulladies.com and karaduffy.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    1 hr and 11 mins
  • State of Business 2025 | Kara Duffy | Business Strategist, Coach & Entrepreneur

    State of Business 2025 | Kara Duffy | Business Strategist, Coach & Entrepreneur
    Sep 4 2025
    It's been a rollercoaster in the business world so far this year. In this solo episode, host, entrepreneur and business strategist Kara Duffy, recaps what she's be coaching small business clients on as they've navigated tariffs, longer sales pipelines, new ai and the changes in customer service expectations. She explains the must haves to win in business in 2025 and how you can start planning ahead now to double your business in 2026. Chapters: 00:52 - Parallels and differences between 2020 and 2025 for your business 3:48 - Radical drop in people making quick purchase decisions 5:29 - If you’re not getting the sales you need… 8:37 - no amount of digital marketing will replace direct sales 8:50 - why this matters for artists looking to make money 10:35 - where is there too much noise in your business? 16:08 - customer service and what it really needs to be successful 20:46 - Business Love Languages 22:55 - AI and your business 25:25 - Creating the simplified version of your business 26:32 - Strategies for doubling your business The Powerful Ladies podcast, hosted by business coach and strategist Kara Duffy features candid conversations with entrepreneurs, creatives, athletes, chefs, writers, scientists, and more. Every Wednesday, new episodes explore what it means to lead with purpose, create with intention, and define success on your own terms. Whether you're growing a business, changing careers, or asking bigger questions, these stories remind you: you're not alone, and you're more powerful than you think. Explore more at thepowerfulladies.com and karaduffy.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    31 mins