What if your next chapter begins when you finally listen to the quiet whispers life has been giving you?

In this episode of Empowering Women, Transforming Lives, Rebecca Hall Gruyter welcomes back Elaine Damschen for another inspiring conversation on resilience, reinvention, entrepreneurship, and living with purpose.

Elaine returns to share the next layer of her journey after Made in Vietnam: My Epic American Journey, including what she has discovered through continued personal growth, new business ventures, and choosing "love in action" in everyday life. From building and selling a successful company to stepping into new dreams, Elaine reminds us that it is never too late to begin again, grow again, and say yes to what is calling us forward.

This episode is for anyone ready to trust life's whispers, overcome challenges, and create a meaningful next chapter with courage and hope.

As always, you can find Rebecca at www.yourpurposedrivenpractice.com

Elaine Damschen is a #1 international bestselling author, speaker, entrepreneur, and passionate advocate for women leaders. A former Inc. 5000 business owner and recipient of Woman of the Year and Top Entrepreneur of the Year honors, Elaine inspires women to live courageously, lead with purpose, and put "love in action." Her memoir, Made in Vietnam: My Epic American Journey, shares a powerful story of resilience, reinvention, and hope.

Connect with Elaine:

Website: https://www.ElaineDamschen.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ACsz2hiBA/?mibextid=wwXIfr
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elaine-damschen-050006119
Instagram: https://www.ElaineDamschen.com

Stories shape our lives, connect communities, and inspire change. From ancient myths to modern podcasts, storytelling is more than entertainment; it's a bridge between cultures, a catalyst for empathy, and a tool for personal and collective growth. In this episode replay, Rebecca talked with author Sherry Lynn Campbell about why a well-told narrative can captivate audiences, foster emotional bonds, and make even the most complex ideas accessible.

Whether you're a creator, a leader, or simply someone who loves a good tale, discover how harnessing the art of storytelling can transform the way you communicate, build confidence so you can SHINE, and leave a lasting impact.

As always, you can find our host, Rebecca Hall Gruyter at www.yourpurposedrivenpractice.com. Our guest is also online. Sherry's online home is: https://www.wondereddy.com.

About our guest:

Sherry Lynn Campbell, storyteller and multi-book author, is taking her love of storytelling to new levels in her first young adult novel in her Storyteller trilogy. In The Storyteller's Quilt: Beginnings Are Boundless, she invites the reader to meet new characters, learn their stories, and journey with them as they each make new discoveries about life, their purpose, and each other. A world of adventure and self-discovery opens as the reader opens the book cover. Find her online at www.wondereddy.com.

What does it take to build a thriving career while staying true to who you are?

In this episode of Empowering Women, Transforming Lives, Rebecca Hall Gruyter is joined by Deborah B. Farone and Danielle Holman for a powerful conversation about confidence, authenticity, visibility, and professional growth.

Drawing on decades of experience advising top professionals around the world, Deborah shares insights from her book Breaking Ground: How Successful Women Lawyers Build Thriving Practices. She reveals why authentic relationship-building, trust, and strategic networking are often the true drivers of long-term success.

Danielle brings a unique perspective on confidence and self-expression through personal style. As a wardrobe stylist and creator of the Fashion Archetypes system, she explains how aligning your outer appearance with your inner identity can help you show up more confidently, communicate your value, and make a lasting impact.

Together, they explore how women can build meaningful relationships, embrace authenticity, increase their visibility, and step into every room with greater confidence and purpose.

This episode is for professionals, entrepreneurs, and leaders who want to grow their influence while staying true to themselves.

As always, you can find Rebecca at www.yourpurposedrivenpractice.com.

Deborah B. Farone is a global business development strategist and CEO of Farone Advisors LLC. She spent over 20 years as Chief Marketing Officer at top law firms Cravath and Debevoise, and now advises organizations worldwide on leadership, branding, and client growth.

She is the author of Breaking Ground: How Successful Women Lawyers Build Thriving Practices, based on interviews with leading professionals across four continents.

Connect with Deborah:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-brightman-farone-4061655/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deborahfaronebestpractices/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/deborah.farone/

Danielle Holman is a wardrobe stylist and founder of Staples & Statements. With eight years of experience helping people discover their personal style, she believes fashion is far more than clothing, it's a reflection of identity, confidence, and self-expression.

Through her signature Fashion Archetypes system, Danielle helps clients understand what styles resonate with them and how to create a wardrobe that feels authentic, empowering, and aligned with who they truly are.

Connect with Danielle:
Website: https://staplesandstatements.com
Instagram: @littledanniii
TikTok: @staplesandstatementsss

What does it look like to reclaim your voice and take center stage after seasons of service, sacrifice, and quiet leadership?

In this powerful episode replay, Rebecca Hall Gruyter is joined by Esmeralda Aharon and Gabriela Ramirez-Arellano, co-founders of Latinas Rising, explored what it means to lead with purpose, elevate others, and shine in your own story.

Esmeralda shared her journey from a 26-year career in the U.S. Air Force to becoming an author, educator, and champion for belonging and equity in medicine. Gabriela shared how her immigrant story fueled her passion for inclusive entrepreneurship, podcasting, and economic justice.

Together, they reflected on the importance of mentorship, authorship, and stepping boldly into spaces where your voice matters. If you've ever felt the pull to lead, but weren't sure when or how to begin, this conversation will remind you that your moment to shine is now.

As always, you can find our host, Rebecca Hall Gruyter at www.yourpurposedrivenpractice.com. Our guests are also online. Gabriela and Esmeralda's online home is: latinas-rising.com

About Our Guests

Esmeralda Aharon, M.A., is a retired U.S. Air Force combat veteran, keynote speaker, and international best-selling author. Over her 26-year military career, she served in Religious Affairs, supporting service members and leadership across the globe. Today, she is a doctoral student in Higher Education and Program Director at Saint Louis University School of Medicine, where she advocates for health equity and social justice. She is also the co-founder of Latinas Rising, a consulting firm that uplifts women through mentorship, leadership, and authorship.

Gabriela Ramirez-Arellano is a bilingual entrepreneur, podcaster, and advocate for inclusive economic growth. An immigrant from Mexico, Gabriela is passionate about empowering women and first-time entrepreneurs through mentorship, storytelling, and community leadership. She is the host of Auténtico and SheLed Badass, and co-host of Women Rising St. Louis. Gabriela co-founded Latinas Rising to amplify voices and expand access to opportunity for underrepresented leaders.

Find them both online at latinas-rising.com

What if your greatest challenge could become the foundation for your next chapter of success?

In this episode of Empowering Women, Transforming Lives, Rebecca Hall Gruyter is joined by Latasha Fennell, retired U.S. Navy Senior Chief, bestselling author, entrepreneur, and founder of Boss Lady Bling Blingy Boutique.

After more than 25 years of military service, Latasha transformed her leadership experience into a thriving business and a mission to empower women, especially veterans, to embrace confidence, purpose, and new possibilities. She shares her journey from military life to entrepreneurship, the inspiration behind her boutique, and the lessons she learned while building a brand that celebrates boldness, resilience, and self-expression.

Together, they explore overcoming life transitions, stepping into your purpose, and finding the courage to shine in a new season.

As always, you can find Rebecca at www.yourpurposedrivenpractice.com.

Latasha Fennell is a retired U.S. Navy Senior Chief (E8), award-winning designer, bestselling author, speaker, and entrepreneur with over 25 years of military service. She is the founder and CEO of Boss Lady Bling Blingy Boutique, a San Diego-based brand specializing in custom handmade jewelry, luxury fashion, and statement accessories.

As the author of From Combat Boots to Blingy High Heels, Latasha inspires women to embrace confidence, purpose, and personal transformation. She is also a Director for the GSFE South Bay San Diego Chapter, co-host of Women Rising America, and recipient of numerous honors, including the President's Volunteer Service Award (Gold) and Global Iconic Changemaker recognition.

Website: https://www.BossLadyBlingBlingy.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bossladyblingblingy
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BossLadyBlingBlingy
Email: latashafennell@gmail.com

How can storytelling strengthen family connection and shape a child's sense of purpose?

In this episode, Rebecca Hall Gruyter is joined by Sherry Lynn Campbell, bestselling children's book author and educator, to explore the impact of storytelling, fatherhood, and meaningful childhood experiences.

Sherry shares the inspiration behind her book, how stories help children and families connect, and why creating intentional moments matters. She also highlights her mission to give back, donating proceeds to children's hospitals and programs supporting families in crisis.

As always, you can find our host, Rebecca Hall Gruyter, at
www.yourpurposedrivenpractice.com

Sherry Lynn Campbell is a #1 international bestselling author and educator with nearly 20 years of experience working with children. With a Master of Education in Montessori practices, she creates stories that inspire connection, creativity, and compassion.

Through WonderEddy, she combines storytelling and purpose-driven impact to support children and families.

Connect with Sherry:

Website: https://WonderEddy.com
LinkedIn: Sherry-Edmondson-Campbell

What does it look like to reclaim your voice and take center stage after seasons of service, sacrifice, and quiet leadership?

In this powerful replay, Rebecca Hall Gruyter is joined by Esmeralda Aharon and Gabriela Ramirez-Arellano, co-founders of Latinas Rising, as they explored what it means to lead with purpose, elevate others, and shine in your own story.

Esmeralda shared her journey from a 26-year career in the U.S. Air Force to becoming an author, educator, and champion for belonging and equity in medicine. Gabriela shared how her immigrant story fueled her passion for inclusive entrepreneurship, podcasting, and economic justice.

Together, they reflected on the importance of mentorship, authorship, and stepping boldly into spaces where your voice matters. If you've ever felt the pull to lead, but weren't sure when or how to begin, this conversation will remind you that your moment to shine is now.

As always, you can find our host, Rebecca Hall Gruyter at www.yourpurposedrivenpractice.com. Our guests are also online. Gabriela and Esmeralda's online home is: latinas-rising.com

About Our Guests

Esmeralda Aharon, M.A., is a retired U.S. Air Force combat veteran, keynote speaker, and international best-selling author. Over her 26-year military career, she served in Religious Affairs, supporting service members and leadership across the globe. Today, she is a doctoral student in Higher Education and Program Director at Saint Louis University School of Medicine, where she advocates for health equity and social justice. She is also the co-founder of Latinas Rising, a consulting firm that uplifts women through mentorship, leadership, and authorship.

Gabriela Ramirez-Arellano is a bilingual entrepreneur, podcaster, and advocate for inclusive economic growth. An immigrant from Mexico, Gabriela is passionate about empowering women and first-time entrepreneurs through mentorship, storytelling, and community leadership. She is the host of Auténtico and SheLed Badass, and co-host of Women Rising St. Louis. Gabriela co-founded Latinas Rising to amplify voices and expand access to opportunity for underrepresented leaders.

Find them both online at latinas-rising.com