Épisodes

  • Building a Successful Swimwear Brand | Johanna Davenport Calica | Founder & Creative Force Behind LaPorte Swim
    Nov 19 2025
    Johanna Davenport Calica is redefining the swimwear industry. As the founder and CEO of LaPorte Swim, a fast-growing swimwear and resort wear brand, she shares her journey from intern to entrepreneur and how she built a successful fashion business from the ground up. In this episode, Kara and Johanna discuss how to launch and scale a swimwear brand, the importance of thoughtful design and body positivity, leveraging modern technology while maintaining human connection, and key strategies for growing a business in a competitive industry. You’ll hear Johanna’s insights on entrepreneurship, building a brand that resonates with customers, and how women founders can create impact while chasing their dreams. This episode is a must-listen for aspiring entrepreneurs, fashion business leaders, and anyone interested in swimwear, brand strategy, and female empowerment in business. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Powerful Ladies 00:28 Meet Johanna Davenport Calica 01:17 Johanna's Background and Journey 03:39 Challenges of Starting a Swimwear Brand 08:46 The Importance of Team and Support 13:37 Navigating the Fashion Industry 18:12 Embracing Technology and Authenticity 21:46 Sustainable and Thoughtful Growth 27:41 Virgil Abloh's Thoughtful Brand Strategy 28:52 Learning from Successful Brands 30:05 Balancing Marketing and Product Development 30:53 Data-Driven Decision Making 34:44 Personal Style and Fashion Trends 40:14 The Concept of Powerful Ladies 44:25 Self-Improvement and Leadership 50:04 Expanding the Business Globally 51:05 Connecting with the Brand 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
    Voir plus Voir moins
    55 min
  • Preserving Family Legacies | Priya David Clemens | News Journalist & Founder of Keepsake Studios
    Nov 12 2025
    Priya David Clemens is a national news journalist, producer, and entrepreneur, and the founder of Keepsake Studios, a company dedicated to capturing and preserving family legacies. In this episode, she and Kara talk about the power of storytelling, the evolution of journalism, and what it means to choose family first while pursuing a demanding career. Priya shares her journey from anchoring at NBC and CBS to creating a business rooted in connection, ancestry, and legacy, and how uncovering our family stories can change how we see ourselves. This is a thoughtful conversation about purpose, identity, and the stories that make us who we are. Whether you’re passionate about storytelling, navigating a career transition, or curious about preserving your own family history, this episode is for you. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to The Powerful Ladies 00:22 Meet Priya David Clemens 01:01 Priya's Early Life and Career Beginnings 03:23 The Evolution of Journalism 08:12 Diversity in Journalism 09:54 Priya's Journey with NBC and CBS 16:21 The Importance of Family Stories 19:31 Keepsake Studios: Preserving Family Legacies 30:37 The Value of Family and Friendship 32:38 The Power of Connections 34:24 Leveraging Social Media for Networking 35:47 The Six Degrees of Separation 37:39 Personal Backstory and Influences 41:06 Empowering Women and Building Confidence 42:54 The Importance of Taking Action 48:53 Facing Challenges and Building Resilience 52:39 Celebrating Achievements and Supporting Each Other 56:53 Final Thoughts and How 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
    Voir plus Voir moins
    1 h et 2 min
  • Empowering the Latino Community & Redefining Global Leadership | Claudia Romo Edelman | Social Entrepreneur, Activist & Founder of We Are All Human
    Nov 5 2025
    Claudia Romo Edelman is a trailblazing social entrepreneur, activist, and founder of We Are All Human, a nonprofit dedicated to advancing the Latino community. A former United Nations official and UNICEF leader, Claudia has spent her career tackling global challenges while amplifying Hispanic voices worldwide. She’s the author of the Hispanic Star book series, co-host of the A La Latina podcast, and an expert in leveraging the power of the Latino community to drive brand and cultural transformation. In this episode, Kara and Claudia explore what it takes to turn vision into impact, the importance of representation and belonging, and how Latinos are shaping the future of business and culture. You’ll also hear about Claudia’s newest venture—a modern, ultra-premium Mexican luxury spirit called Sotol—that reflects her mission to elevate Latino excellence on the world stage. This conversation is a masterclass in leadership, action, and the art of building from purpose.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Claudia Romo Edelman01:32 Claudia's Current Endeavors and Concerns02:34 Challenges Facing the Latino Community05:49 The Hispanic Sentiment Study09:12 Claudia's Childhood and Activism13:41 The Power of Yes and Entrepreneurship14:07 Sotol: The Next Big Thing20:22 Social Entrepreneurship and Activism23:06 Challenging Stereotypes About Accents23:59 The Power of Multilingualism25:17 Reclaiming Latinidad26:47 The Role of Language in Mental Health27:42 Building Bridges of Tolerance29:59 Mobilizing Communities for Change34:29 Defining Powerful Ladies35:44 Influences and Personal Journeys41:06 Daily Routines and Staying Grounded43:37 Supporting Latino Initiatives45:01 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsThe 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
    Voir plus Voir moins
    49 min
  • Decolonizing the Outdoors & Reclaiming Indigenous Identity | Ellen Bradley | Skier, Scientist & Filmmaker
    Oct 29 2025
    Ellen Bradley is a skier, scientist, filmmaker, and proud member of the Tlingit Tribe who is redefining what it means to be an Indigenous leader in today’s world. Through her work, Ellen blends tradition, technology, and storytelling to decolonize outdoor spaces and reconnect Indigenous communities to their ancestral lands. In this episode, Kara and Ellen dive into the meaning of being Indigenous in 2025, the significance of the LandBack movement, and how young Indigenous people are using social media to share their stories and spark change. You’ll hear about Ellen’s inspiring journey, including her film Let My People Go Skiing, and how she’s building bridges between cultures through advocacy and art. This episode explores identity, justice, and the power of reclaiming space, both on the slopes and in society. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to The Powerful Ladies Podcast 00:50 Meet Ellen Bradley: A Multifaceted Indigenous Leader 01:35 Ellen's Journey and Contributions 03:32 Cultural Heritage and Community Work 12:58 Navigating Activism and Partnerships 22:34 Challenges and Reflections on Capitalism 28:07 Challenges of Specialization in Western Science 28:58 Indigenous Knowledge and Systemic Thinking 29:50 The Importance of Holistic Approaches 32:11 One Person at a Time: Mentorship and Internships 34:16 Scaling Up: Mountain Access Program 35:36 Entrepreneurial Mindset for Social Good 37:49 Personal Reflections on Career Choices 40:30 Land Back: Reconnecting Indigenous People to Their Lands 46:08 Breaking Down Barriers in Outdoor Spaces 51:04 The Need for Nuanced Conversations 54:35 Upcoming Projects and How to Support 57:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 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
    Voir plus Voir moins
    1 h et 1 min
  • 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
    Voir plus Voir moins
    52 min
  • 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
    Voir plus Voir moins
    54 min
  • 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
    Voir plus Voir moins
    49 min
  • 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
    Voir plus Voir moins
    53 min