• The Story Behind It All...
    May 17 2024

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    Brace yourself... I'm getting vulnerable.

    Life is full of transitions – some expected, others sudden – but all have the potential to shape us in profound ways. In this episode of the Behind the Spotlight podcast, I share my personal journey through significant transitions and how these experiences inspired me to create the Rise and Thrive Conference. This event has become a powerful movement aimed at empowering women through storytelling, community, and intentional living.

    In this episode, I discuss the following:

    • Power of Transitions
    • Creating Community
    • Inception of Rise & Thrive
    • Empowering Through Storytelling
    • Intentional Living

    The Rise and Thrive Conference is more than just an event – it’s a movement that encourages women to embrace their transitions, share their stories, and rise to their fullest potential. My journey and commitment to empowering others through intentional living serve as a powerful reminder that the answers we seek are often already within us. By coming together and supporting each other, we can all rise and thrive.

    Experience this moment with us, Register here.

    Support the Show.

    RESOURCES & LINKS:

    • Join our Inner Circle Community here.
    • Stay updated with Danielle here.

    Rate, Review, & Follow on Behind The Spotlight Podcast! This helps me support more people — just like you — move toward the Greatness and develop into your best self. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already.

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    43 mins
  • [At The Core Series] Juliet Abdel, President, Greater Topeka Chamber
    Apr 12 2024

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    Juliet Abdel’s influence extends nationally, serving as a director on the governing body of the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives and contributing to the Advisory Council for the Leadership Program of the Rockies.

    Juliet is a charter member of the Rocky Mountain Alumni Chapter of Sigma Lambda Gamma Multi-Cultural Sorority and has been a dedicated spokesperson for the American Heart Association’s Go Red program since 2021 and Women Heart since 2022.

    Juliet has served on the U.S. Chamber Board of Directors as an Institute Regent, the United Nations Association in Oklahoma City Chapter, and various other boards dedicated to inclusivity and community development.

    Armed with a master’s degree in international studies, specializing in development, society, and education from Oklahoma State University, Juliet has authored publications on female empowerment and entrepreneurship.

    This episode is sponsored by: TK Business Magazine.

    Read more here: https://tkmagazine.com/blog/2024/3/7/at-the-core-with-danielle-j-martin

    Support the Show.

    RESOURCES & LINKS:

    • Join our Inner Circle Community here.
    • Stay updated with Danielle here.

    Rate, Review, & Follow on Behind The Spotlight Podcast! This helps me support more people — just like you — move toward the Greatness and develop into your best self. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already.

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    40 mins
  • How to Lead with Purpose: Lindsay Freeman's Leadership Journey
    Apr 3 2024

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    This episode dives into the story of Lindsay Freeman, State Manager, Community Relations at Kansas Gas Service. Lindsay is not only a prominent figure in her community but also an inspiring leader, mentor, and advocate for women's leadership. Lindsay's leadership journey is a testament to the power of dedication and clear vision.

    As she navigates through various leadership roles, including her current position at Kansas Gas Service, her path illustrates the importance of aspiring leaders making their ambitions known. Leadership is not without its challenges. Lindsay touches on the delicate balancing act of being a transparent leader while maintaining the confidence and respect of her team. She shares insights into the complexities leaders face today, from recruitment challenges to adapting to a changing workforce, proposing active listening and mutual understanding as key strategies to address these issues.

    Here's a recap of the episode:

    01:50 Spotlight on Lindsay Freeman: A Topeka Community Leader

    03:21 From Payless to Community Engagement: Lindsay's Journey

    08:11 Leadership Insights: Climbing the Ladder and Speaking Up

    13:56 The Challenges and Responsibilities of Leadership

    16:47 Meet Lindsey Freeman: A Glimpse Into Her Life

    16:56 The Joy and Challenges of Motherhood

    19:32 Embracing Foster Care: A Journey of Love and Challenges

    24:51 Risk-Taking and Future Aspirations

    27:31 Leadership Insights: Being Transparent and Kind

    29:37 Finding Your Personal Mission Statement

    Additionally, she opens up about her personal life, including her journey as a foster and adoptive parent, emphasizing the significance of risk-taking, advocacy for children in need, and the essence of following one's heart. Freeman hints at future aspirations, possibly in political office, reinforcing the message of growth, self-belief, and the power of being true to oneself.

    Support the Show.

    RESOURCES & LINKS:

    • Join our Inner Circle Community here.
    • Stay updated with Danielle here.

    Rate, Review, & Follow on Behind The Spotlight Podcast! This helps me support more people — just like you — move toward the Greatness and develop into your best self. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already.

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    32 mins
  • Cultivating Creativity: The Journey of Martha B. Piland
    Mar 27 2024

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    In a world where women are carving their paths towards success and empowerment, Martha B. Piland stands out as a beacon of inspiration. With a rich history of entrepreneurship and a passion for uplifting women in business, Martha's journey is one filled with dedication, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

    Watch the full episode here!

    This episode features Martha B. Piland, founder of MB Piland Advertising and Banktastic. The conversation kicks off with Martha sharing her initial steps into entrepreneurship as a child teaching ballet, leading up to the establishment of her own advertising and marketing firm in 1998. She elaborates on the importance of a business plan, her drive for constant learning, and the significant role of discipline and time management in the success of her business.

    Martha also highlights the value of having a supportive community for female entrepreneurs, sharing practical advice on setting up such groups and maintaining focus on one's mission. Further, Martha discusses 'Punctuating the Period' campaign aimed at addressing period poverty and aligning with her company's mission to improve community well-being. The episode also touches on how Martha's division, Banktastic, specifically caters to the unique marketing needs of financial institutions to make them relevant to millennials. Listeners are introduced to Martha's books, 'Culturing Creative' and 'Beyond Sticky', and her creative subscription box, 'Transfomotion', designed to stimulate innovation. Martha concludes by emphasizing the importance of faith and prayer in her life, advising listeners to believe in their capabilities and pursue their goals with tenacity.


    Here's the recap of the episode:

    01:23 Spotlight Series: Women in Business with Martha B. Piland

    01:42 Martha's Entrepreneurial Journey and MB Piland Advertising

    05:39 Marketing Wisdom: Clarity, Learning, and Growth

    09:10 Empowering Female Entrepreneurs: Advice and Strategies

    12:15 Building a Supportive Community for Women Entrepreneurs

    15:23 Punctuating the Period Campaign: Making a Difference

    20:49 Banktastic: Specializing in Financial Brand Marketing

    24:23 Cultivating Creativity and Innovation with Transfer Motion in a Box

    26:40 Exploring Martha's Books: Culturing Creative and Beyond Sticky

    29:07 Martha's Personal Growth and Legacy

    35:05 Closing Thoughts: Empowerment and Pursuing Your Goals

    Connect with Martha:

    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marthab1/
    • Martha's Books:
      • Culturing Creative
      • Beyond Sticky

    Other Resources mentioned:

    • Create a Podcast for

    Support the Show.

    RESOURCES & LINKS:

    • Join our Inner Circle Community here.
    • Stay updated with Danielle here.

    Rate, Review, & Follow on Behind The Spotlight Podcast! This helps me support more people — just like you — move toward the Greatness and develop into your best self. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already.

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    36 mins
  • Empowering Voices: The Journey of Entrepreneur and Catalyst Christina Long
    Mar 20 2024

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    In a special edition celebrating Women's History Month, the spotlight shines on Christina Long, a remarkable entrepreneur with a stirring tale of perseverance, dedication, and innovation. Coming from Wichita, Kansas, Christina's journey is a testament to resilience and vision. As the founder of CML Collective, she spearheads efforts in diversity, inclusion, and economic empowerment, driving real change in her community and beyond.

    As we dive into Christina's story, it's clear this isn't just about business. It's about creating impact, fostering growth among minority-owned businesses, and setting an example of what it means to thrive against the odds. Christina's commitment is unwavering, whether leading the Create Campaign to cultivate urban entrepreneurship or envisioning a future where communities of color uplift each other.

    Christina's vision extends beyond her enterprises. Her work through the Create Campaign is laying the groundwork for a future where minority entrepreneurs no longer just dream but actualize their visions. As we dive into the challenges and triumphs of bridging gaps between ideas and execution, Christina's insights on the essence of a business plan, the power of consultation, and the importance of community support are invaluable.

    Christina Long's journey is not just her own; it's a beacon for all aspiring entrepreneurs and community leaders. She embodies the spirit of empowerment, demonstrating that with determination, support, and a clear vision, it's possible to rise, thrive, and leave a mark on the world.


    Here's a quick recap of the episode:

    00:00 Announcing the 2024 Rise and Thrive Conference!

    00:47 Celebrating Women's History Month: The Inspiring Journey of Christina Long

    03:59 From Journalism to Entrepreneurship: Christina Long's Story

    04:49 Launching Miss Lady and the Birth of CML Collective

    06:32 The Importance of Strategic Branding in Business

    09:24 Creating Opportunities for Black Entrepreneurs: The Create Campaign

    11:47 Bridging the Entrepreneurial Gap: Advice for Aspiring Business Owners

    19:39 The Power of Community and Passion in Entrepreneurship

    22:45 The Drive Behind the Struggle: Finding Purpose and Perseverance

    23:22 The Impact of Business on Lives and Communities

    24:50 Navigating Mental Health and Personal Growth

    26:19 Embracing Imperfection and Focusing on Progress

    27:52 The Journey of Becoming an Author: Sharing the Blueprint

    32:55 Designing a Decade: Setting Goals and Living Your Legacy

    36:36 Understanding Self-Worth and Confidence

    41:40 Concluding Thoughts: Embracing Worthiness and Moving Forward

    Connect with Christina:

    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christina-long-05221555/
    • Websites:

    Support the Show.

    RESOURCES & LINKS:

    • Join our Inner Circle Community here.
    • Stay updated with Danielle here.

    Rate, Review, & Follow on Behind The Spotlight Podcast! This helps me support more people — just like you — move toward the Greatness and develop into your best self. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already.

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    43 mins
  • Embracing Failure: A Guide to Financial Literacy with Fatima Perez-Luthi
    Mar 11 2024

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    Today, we're learning from Fatima Perez-Luthi, CEO and founder of The Grind Coaching and Consulting. When navigating the exciting yet challenging path of entrepreneurship, financial literacy is a stumbling block for many. When beginning a journey with personal finance coaching, the primary objective is to establish a comfortable relationship. This may seem daunting as it involves intricate details, unpleasant truths, and confronting shame associated with money matters. But once you cross that bridge, a world of opportunity awaits on the other side.

    Watch the full episode!

    Becoming comfortable with your financial status, understanding its implications, potential and limitations, and being real with yourself about these are pivotal steps. Building on this, setting concrete, achievable goals, and committing to them will help ensure financial health and sustainability.Fatima shares her journey from a young entrepreneur selling chocolates at the age of seven to establishing her financial practice.

    The episode delves into the significance of understanding one's financial psychology, the power of setting actionable goals, and the importance of embracing failure in entrepreneurship. Fatima reveals her struggle with imposter syndrome and the realization that failure is an opportunity for growth.

    Here's A Recap of this week's episode:

    00:46 Guest Introduction: Fatima, CEO of The Grind

    01:15 Fatima's Journey into Entrepreneurship

    02:25 The Birth of The Grind Coaching and Consulting

    08:11 The Importance of Financial Literacy

    13:43 The Challenges of Entrepreneurship

    18:35 The Role of Finances in Entrepreneurship

    19:08 The Process of Financial Coaching

    24:35 The Creation of a Financial Literacy App

    27:17 The Birth of a Business Idea

    27:57 The Struggles of Software Development

    28:45 The Importance of Intention in Finance

    29:31 The Journey to App Development

    30:25 The Reality of Investment and Risk

    30:38 The Unexpected Challenges of App Development

    31:51 The Power of Support and Community

    32:12 The Mental Endurance in Entrepreneurship

    37:08 The Fear of Failure and the Power of Perseverance

    43:19 The Importance of Continuous Learning and Growth

    49:39 The Power of Vulnerability and Transparency

    50:46 Conclusion: The Journey of Entrepreneurship

    Everyone's financial journey varies. What works for one might not work for you. But, suppose you invest time, effort and patience into understanding your financial patterns and their intricate details. In that case, you're already heading towards a brighter financial future. Fear and failure are part of the journey, but every stumbling block carries a valuable lesson in resilience and discipline. As Fatima succinctly put, "Be it till you become it."


    Support the Show.

    RESOURCES & LINKS:

    • Join our Inner Circle Community here.
    • Stay updated with Danielle here.

    Rate, Review, & Follow on Behind The Spotlight Podcast! This helps me support more people — just like you — move toward the Greatness and develop into your best self. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already.

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    51 mins
  • Unveiling the True Story of Business Success: Tracy Jepson's Entrepreneurial Journey
    Mar 4 2024

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    In honor of Women's History Month, Behind the Spotlight Podcast is featuring trailblazers who are doing BIG things in their communities and businesses.

    Tracy Jepson, an entrepreneur with 20 years of expertise in small business consulting, coaching, and advisory. Having multiple successful businesses ranging from bookkeeping, a dive shop to a wellness studio, Tracy shares her journey of overcoming burnout and creating multiple thriving businesses. Jepson discusses how she found peace underwater with scuba diving, how she overcame obstacles, the importance of work-life balance, and how her passion for wellness led to the birth of her wellness studio. Tracy provides practical advice on pricing services, hiring practices, investing in oneself and understanding the value of the services offered. The conversation also dives into the importance of having a support system and how she tackles new businesses with a systematic, yet flexible, approach.

    Topics such as hiring the right team, the art of pricing services, overcoming money trauma, seeking continuous learning, and maintaining a positive business mindset are discussed. Emphasizing the value of networking and investing time into the business process, Tracy encourages entrepreneurs to ask questions and be willing to make strategic decisions for the growth and success of their businesses.

    Here's a recap of this episode:

    02:25 Meet Tracy Jepson: The Powerhouse Woman with Multiple Businesses

    06:59 The Art of Collecting Businesses: From Scuba Diving to Wellness

    13:21 Overcoming Debt and Building a Successful Business

    16:35 The Journey to Wellness: From Personal Transformation to Business Creation

    18:39 The Importance of Teamwork in Running Multiple Businesses

    20:42 Hiring and Managing Teams Across Different Businesses

    26:10 Join the Insider Community Circle

    26:58 Overcoming the Poverty Mindset

    28:09 Understanding Your Value Through Pricing

    28:18 The Impact of Money Trauma

    29:58 The Importance of Knowing Your Living Budget

    34:30 The Power of Investing in Yourself

    38:11 The Importance of Hiring Sooner

    43:44 The Value of Turning Down Clients

    47:09 The Power of Intentionality

    48:40 Closing Thoughts and Reflections


    Connect & Contact Tracy Here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tjepson/

    • Website: tracyjepson.com
    • IG: https://www.instagram.com/tracyljepson/
    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tracyljepson

    Support the Show.

    RESOURCES & LINKS:

    • Join our Inner Circle Community here.
    • Stay updated with Danielle here.

    Rate, Review, & Follow on Behind The Spotlight Podcast! This helps me support more people — just like you — move toward the Greatness and develop into your best self. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already.

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    50 mins
  • How to Embrace the Unknown: Stepping into New Territory
    Feb 26 2024

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    Have you ever been in a space where you said to yourself, "I don't know how to do this and I'm worried that it's not going to turn out or I'm not going to get the right outcome."

    It's a feeling we've all experienced when embarking on something new, something we've never done before. The emotions that arise, questioning our abilities and feeling incapable, seem to overshadow the thoughts that tell us we can succeed.

    It's interesting how our brains work sometimes, isn't it? We tend to focus more on the negative thoughts, on why we can't do something, rather than embracing the positive thoughts that empower us to believe in our capabilities. But embracing the unknown is a crucial part of personal growth and development.

    Watch the full episode!

    Here's a recap of the episode:

    01:02 Welcome to Behind the Spotlight Podcast

    02:04 Embracing New Challenges: Launching a Podcast Workshop

    02:58 The Power of Positive Affirmations

    03:22 The Joy of Connecting with Others

    04:38 Overcoming Fear and Embracing the Unknown

    08:23 The Importance of Preparation and Practice

    09:56 Finding Peace in Stillness

    11:55 The Power of Low Expectations

    13:59 Trusting the Process and Embracing Your True Self

    15:33 Conclusion: You Are Made for This

    15:58 Exciting Announcements and Final Thoughts

    Support the Show.

    RESOURCES & LINKS:

    • Join our Inner Circle Community here.
    • Stay updated with Danielle here.

    Rate, Review, & Follow on Behind The Spotlight Podcast! This helps me support more people — just like you — move toward the Greatness and develop into your best self. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already.

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    17 mins