エピソード

  • 017: Reinventing Identity: Cheryl Eslinger & the Power of 100 Eagan
    2026/02/03
    Host Lisa Carmichael speaks with Cheryl Eslinger, an electrical engineer turned community changemaker, about rebuilding life and identity after a major stroke abruptly ended her 30+ year career. Cheryl shares honestly about workaholism, losing the career that defined her, learning everyday tasks again, and discovering a new purpose rooted in serving others.Cheryl also introduces Power of 100 Eagan, a women’s giving circle that gathers twice a year so members can collectively donate thousands of dollars to local nonprofits in a single evening. You’ll hear how the model works, why legacy is about the impact we have right now, and what it means to “bloom where you’re planted.”Featuring: Cheryl Eslinger, Lisa Carmichael, Tracie Munce, and Amy Sousa.References / Mentions:Power of 100 EaganPower of 100 Twin Cites⁠Eagan City Lifestyle Rosemount Power of 100 Notable Quotes:“I remember telling them I would rather go back to work quickly than walk quickly, because that was my norm, that was my identity.” – Cheryl Eslinger“I told her what I wanted is I wanted to go to bed every night having been a blessing to someone.” – Cheryl Eslinger“I don’t feel like I have to prove myself as an engineer, as a business owner… I didn’t think I’d like retirement, but I’m just having so much fun.” – Cheryl Eslinger“Legacy… I don’t care what my grandchildren are going to remember. I care what people around me right now are going to remember.” – Cheryl Eslinger“It’s time to stop asking why and just get on with it.” – Cheryl Eslinger“Reinvention is every day… we all have a better version or a higher version of what we see ourselves.” – Tracie MunceMore about Cheryl:I was a workaholic electrical engineer for over 30 years. I had a small engineering contracting company for the last 20 years of that. In April of 2024, a had a massive brain bleed (stroke) that left me paralyzed on the left half of my body. The brain damage caused enough cognitive deficits and limited endurance that I was unable to continue my successful company and my rewarding career. I found myself suddenly retired - the thought of which has always terrified me. So I started a journey of reinventing who I was. Cheryl on Linked In: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/cheryl-eslinger-3775407?Cheryl on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cheryl.eslingerMore about Power of 100 Eagan:Power of 100 Eagan Women is a group of women who come together with a shared belief that collective giving can create meaningful support for local organizations. Twice each year, members gather for one hour to learn about nonprofits serving our community, contribute $100 each, and vote together to award a significant donation to one selected organization. By pooling our individual contributions, we are able to provide substantial financial support while building connections among women who care deeply about making a difference in our community. Our gatherings are simple, welcoming, and focused on strengthening our community through local action.Website: https://powerof100eagan.comCall to Action:If this episode sparked a new idea, gave you a fresh perspective, or made you feel seen, share it with a friend or fellow powerhouse woman. Subscribe to the Power Lunch Podcast so you never miss an episode, and remember: keep showing up, keep rising, and there’s no ceiling you can’t break through!Connect with us:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Link Tree⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode, and share this podcast with someone who could use a little midday inspiration!
    続きを読む 一部表示
    22 分
  • 016: Grace Costs Nothing: Redefining Senior Living with Marlena Hemenway
    2026/01/27
    On this episode of the Power Lunch Podcast, hosts Amy Sousa, Tracie Munce, and Lisa Carmichael sit down with Marlena Hemenway, co‑founder and Chief Brand Officer of Geneva Suites, a network of residential assisted living homes in the Twin Cities.Marlena shares how she and her husband Scott saw gaps in traditional senior care—loneliness, long call‑light waits, and inconsistent support—and created small, beautiful home settings with a 1:3 caregiver‑to‑resident ratio, chef‑prepared meals, and deeply personalized routines.They dive into:Why “home‑like” environments and stunning natural views matter so much for seniorsStories of residents whose lives transformed through personalized careHow the geriatric Montessori method helps residents find daily purposePractical ways to support longevity: real food, movement, and keeping the brain engagedMarlena’s leadership philosophy that “Grace costs nothing” and how it shapes her team cultureThe relighting of the iconic Lighted Oak Home tree on Highway 77 and how the community can get involvedMarlena’s podcast, “The Care Truth,” which debunks common myths about senior careHer experience in the Glass Ceiling Foundation Mastermind and the power of women leading togetherPerfect for anyone navigating aging parents, working in senior care, or simply wanting to live—and lead—with more purpose, compassion, and grace.Notable Quotes:“Grace costs nothing.” – Marlena Hemenway“When you’ve lost so much, the quality and comfort of your food is a huge part of your day.” – Marlena Hemenway“It may not be their home, but it is a home.” – Marlena Hemenway“The more you use your brain, the less you’re going to lose it.” – Marlena Hemenway“We don’t always know what’s going on in someone else’s life… it doesn’t cost anything to give them some grace.” – Marlena Hemenway“Our mission is to enhance lives—that’s why we do what we do.” – Marlena HemenwayMore about Marlena:Marlena Hemenway is the Co-Founder of The Geneva Suites™, a family-owned network of residential assisted living homes she started with her husband Scott in 2016. Rooted in their shared belief that seniors deserve dignity, compassion, and true home-based care, Marlena now serves as Chief Brand Officer. She is expanding her mission through public speaking and The Care Truth podcast, where she shares heartfelt stories and practical insight for families navigating aging and care decisions. Marlena believes grace costs nothing—and leading with purpose, faith, and connection can change everything.Marlena on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mar_lena615/Marlena on Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marlena-hemenway-lald-40b9b217/Marlena on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marlena.borchers.hemenway.2025/More about Geneva Suites:Geneva Suites Website Link: ⁠https://www.thegenevasuites.com⁠Geneva Suites on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegenevasuitesShine On, Bloomington Donation Link: https://www.freefunder.com/campaign/shine-on-bloomingtonCall to Action:If this episode sparked a new idea, gave you a fresh perspective, or made you feel seen, share it with a friend or fellow powerhouse woman. Subscribe to the Power Lunch Podcast so you never miss an episode, and remember: keep showing up, keep rising, and there’s no ceiling you can’t break through!Connect with us:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Link Tree⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode, and share this podcast with someone who could use a little midday inspiration!
    続きを読む 一部表示
    24 分
  • 015: Hospitality Is Everything with Nicole Munce & Shauna Bonaime
    2026/01/20
    On this episode of the Power Lunch Podcast, Tracie Munce and Lisa Carmichael (with Amy Sousa off conquering the world) sit down with powerhouse duo Nichole Munce and Shawna Bonaime.They dive into:Nichole’s lifelong calling to feed the world and her 20+ years in hospitalityShawna’s journey from farm life and anthropology to CPG, wine & spirits, and consultingHow COVID forced a hard reset in the restaurant industryWhy systems + soul (policies, procedures and people) are the real backbone of hospitalityWhat it really means to be human first in business and leadershipThe challenges and beauty of starting a business with a close friendPerfect for: restaurateurs, hospitality pros, and anyone dreaming of launching a business with someone they love and trust.References / Mentions:Merlin’s Rest (Nicole’s family restaurant)Eagan Arms Public HouseThe SMB Collective (described as “human first”)Help the House – hospitality industry support organizationHint Water (Cara Golden)National Beverage CorpVinai (Chef Yia Vang)Earl Giles / Earl Giles Apothecary (Mike)Jester Concepts restaurant groupManny’sTravailMeteor (kimchi hot dog)Wampel CoffeeOur Favorite Quotes:“You can’t just have good food in a parking lot anymore. You’re not going to make it.” – Shawna“Hospitality isn’t… it doesn’t start with the customer experience. It starts with my experience with the person in the mirror.” – Tracie“If I haven’t learned something, then my day is not done.” – Nichole“If you’re not continuing to grow, you’re always behind.” – Nichole“We all like to say 2020, but I honestly think it started before that… 2017–2018.” – Shawna on industry shift “If you’re a giver, you’ve got to be a receiver.” – Tracie “Everything should be human first… and we just want to bring it back to that.” – Shawna “Just because it doesn’t work for us doesn’t mean that you’re somehow undeserving of assistance.” – ShawnaMore about Nichole:With 20 years of executive experience in hospitality, events, and operations for 3M, Optum, and Aramark, Nichole leads with strong financial acumen and proven results. After spending seven years inside her family’s restaurant business, she developed a deep understanding of hands-on leadership, guest experience, and the operational heartbeat of a thriving hospitality brand. Now, stepping forward into her next adventure, Nichole brings the perfect blend of corporate expertise, entrepreneurial spirit, and people-first leadership to everything she does. Nichole's Website: www.embersandashco.comNichole's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/embersandashco/More about Shawna: Shawna is the founder of The SMB Collective, a hospitality consulting group specializing in restaurants, wine and spirits brands, suppliers, and distributors. With deep experience in on-premise programming, retail strategy, and market development, she helps teams strengthen operations and tell their story with clarity and authenticity. Her work blends industry expertise with a human-first approach.Shawna's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_smb_collectiveCall to Action:If this episode sparked a new idea, gave you a fresh perspective, or made you feel seen, share it with a friend or fellow powerhouse woman. Subscribe to the Power Lunch Podcast so you never miss an episode, and remember: keep showing up, keep rising, and there’s no ceiling you can’t break through!Connect with us:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Link Tree⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode, and share this podcast with someone who could use a little midday inspiration!
    続きを読む 一部表示
    51 分
  • 014: Creative Confidence & Imperfect Content with Sheryl Berg
    2026/01/13
    In this episode of The Power Lunch Podcast, hosts Tracie Munce, guest host Nichole Munce, and Lisa Carmichael welcome marketer and social media expert, Sheryl Berg, founder of Lemonade Media Group, along with special guest co‑host Nicole Munce.Sheryl shares how she:Reinvented herself after divorce and built Lemonade Media GroupBalances motherhood, entrepreneurship, and a creative careerUses storytelling to help businesses stand out onlineManages overthinking with tools like journaling and voice notesEncourages women to show up imperfectly and authentically on social mediaYou’ll learn:A simple 10‑second mindset shift to post with more confidenceWhy imperfect content often performs better than polished contentSheryl’s suggested content mix (imperfect, educational, storytelling, sales, and high‑end)How masterminds and community support can fuel your business growthSheryl closes with a powerful challenge: create one piece of content today without overthinking it and just see what happens.Lemonade Media Group (Sheryl’s company) Glass Ceiling Foundation Mastermind Notable Quotes: “Foundations are built one brick at a time. So if you overthink, you’re kind of like, scattered everywhere.” – Sheryl“Overthinking is because it comes from caring. It’s because you care, and it is a sign that you want to make an impact.” – Sheryl“We don’t need to be perfect to be powerful online.” – Sheryl “You don’t have to be the new viral sensation. You have to be something for somebody.” – Nicole “If your words help one person, the post has already done its job.” – Sheryl “You need the three P’s: presence, passion, purpose. If you have those things… that’s all you need to make great content.” – Sheryl “I’m just challenging the listeners today to create something and not overthink it and just watch what happens and just put it out there.” – Sheryl Connect with Sheryl at Lemonade GroupWebsite: www.lemonademediagroup.comInstagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/lemonademediagroupFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/lemonademediagroupLinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/lemonademediagroup⁠TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lemonademediagroupCall to Action:If this episode sparked a new idea, gave you a fresh perspective, or made you feel seen, share it with a friend or fellow powerhouse woman. Subscribe to the Power Lunch Podcast so you never miss an episode, and remember: keep showing up, keep rising, and there’s no ceiling you can’t break through!Connect with us:⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Link Tree⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode, and share this podcast with someone who could use a little midday inspiration!
    続きを読む 一部表示
    25 分
  • 013: Grit, Glam, and Community: How Amy Sousa Built Eagan City Lifestyle
    2026/01/06
    In this episode of the Power Lunch Podcast, hosts Tracie Munce and Lisa Carmichael sit down with Amy Sousa, magazine owner, community connector, and publisher of Eagan City Lifestyle to talk about grit, community, and the courage to pivot when life forces you to pause.Amy shares the real story behind her leap from a 21-year corporate career into entrepreneurship — a decision sparked by a medical leave and health scare that forced her to reassess what truly mattered. What followed was a bold pivot: purchasing a magazine franchise in April 2022 and launching her first issue just five months later.This conversation offers an honest look at what it takes to build a print-first brand in a digital world, and why trust, consistency, and community still win.What You’ll Hear in This EpisodeWhy Amy left corporate after 21 years and chose entrepreneurshipThe realities of cold calling, networking, and building relationships locallyHow a print magazine remains trusted, tangible, and impactful in today’s worldWhat it’s like working alongside her husband Matthew as editor and behind-the-scenes partnerBalancing marriage, motherhood, a full-time publication, and two hair salonsWhy her word of the year is grit — and what that really looks like in actionAdvice for women who feel the pull to leap but are afraid to startAmy also shares how she uses the magazine as a platform to give back to the community and spotlight local businesses in meaningful ways.About Our GuestAmy Sousa is the Owner & Publisher of Eagan City Lifestyle, a luxury lifestyle magazine serving Eagan and surrounding Dakota County communities.More than a magazine, Eagan City Lifestyle is a multi-platform brand that connects residents through print, digital content, social media, and curated events — reaching over 85,000 readers each month.Business Tagline: Celebrating the Heart of Our CommunityCommunity & Events MentionedEagan City Lifestyle Gala and Community AwardsUpcoming golf tournament at Brackett’s Country Club on August 31, 2026Local partnerships with business owners, nonprofits, and civic organizationsThe power of genuine connection in strengthening small businessesNotable Quotes“I realized I was just a number drinking the corporate Kool-Aid for 21 years, so I left corporate and purchased the franchise.”“Print is more trusted in our community. The magazine is digestible in about 30 minutes.”“I truly use the magazine to give back to the community.”“You might not need a dentist or a florist today, but when you see them consistently, you know exactly where to go when you do.”“My advice is simple: jump in. Don’t overthink it. Surround yourself with like-minded people.”“Everybody needs a Matthew in their life.”Connect with Amy & Eagan City LifestyleWebsite: https://citylifestyle.com/eaganInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/eagancitylifestyleFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/EaganCityLifestyleLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/eagan-city-lifestyleDigital Magazine Archive: https://citylifestyle.com/eagan/issuesNotable MentionsThis episode is a reminder that courage doesn’t always show up loudly. Sometimes it looks like grit, consistency, and choosing yourself — even when the path forward isn’t perfectly clear.Whether you’re curious about entrepreneurship, community-based marketing, or redefining success on your own terms, this conversation will leave you encouraged and grounded.Call to Action:If this episode sparked a new idea, gave you a fresh perspective, or made you feel seen, share it with a friend or fellow powerhouse woman. Subscribe to the Power Lunch Podcast so you never miss an episode, and remember: keep showing up, keep rising, and there’s no ceiling you can’t break through!Connect with us:⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Linktree⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode, and share this podcast with someone who could use a little midday inspiration!
    続きを読む 一部表示
    25 分
  • 012: Breaking the Lone Wolf Myth: Rising Together
    2025/12/30

    Hosts: Amy Sousa, Tracie Munce, and Lisa Carmichael discuss the Lone Wolf Myth.

    In this episode, Amy, Tracie, and Lisa dive deep into the myth of the "lone wolf" and the belief that women must do it all alone to be strong and successful. They explore how this mindset is shifting toward collaboration, community, and co-elevation, and share personal stories about overcoming competition, intimidation, and imposter syndrome. The hosts discuss the power of supporting one another, the importance of reflection and self-care, and how the Glass Ceiling Foundation fosters a thriving, inclusive community for women at all stages of their journey.

    Key Discussion Points:

    • The impact of the "lone wolf" mentality among women in business and life.

    • How independence has been historically equated with strength, and why collaboration is now recognized as a greater force.

    • Personal experiences with competition, intimidation, and the transition to supporting and uplifting other women.

    • The concept of being in competition with your past and future self, and strategies for personal growth and self-reflection.

    • The importance of community events such as book clubs, breakfast clubs, happy hours, and masterminds in building connections and breaking the glass ceiling.

    • Practical ways to support other women, such as social media collaboration, online reviews, and genuine networking.

    • Addressing imposter syndrome and embracing authenticity and self-worth.

    • The value of discernment in building your circle and letting go of the need to be liked by everyone.

    Notable Quotes:

    • "We rise faster, higher, and stronger when we rise together."

    • "Collaboration is huge. There are enough clients for everyone."

    • "Alpha women, when they run together, are so much more powerful than when they compete."

    • "Triggers are an opportunity to learn more about ourselves."

    • "Everything you need is already within you."


    Call to Action:

    If this episode sparked a new idea, gave you a fresh perspective, or made you feel seen, share it with a friend or fellow powerhouse woman. Subscribe to the Power Lunch Podcast so you never miss an episode, and remember: keep showing up, keep rising, and there’s no ceiling you can’t break through!

    Connect with us:

    • ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠

    • ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠

    • ⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠

    • ⁠⁠Linktree⁠⁠

    • ⁠⁠Website⁠⁠

    Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode, and share this podcast with someone who could use a little midday inspiration!

    続きを読む 一部表示
    26 分
  • 011: Feel It All: Ancient Wisdom & Modern Power Moves with Aeronica Singh
    2025/12/23

    Hosts Tracie Munce, Amy Sousa, and Lisa Carmichael welcome wellness disruptor Aeronica Singh to the Power Lunch Podcast. In this inspiring, fast-paced episode, Aeronica shares how the ancient practices of yoga and mindfulness empower high-achieving women to navigate overwhelm, create boundaries, and rediscover their vibrancy. From actionable rituals to debunking productivity myths, the conversation delivers bold advice for building a thriving, authentic life.

    References/Mentions:

    • Follow Aeronica Singh on Instagram: @flowwitharrow
    • Aronica’s online yoga and breathwork classes: 6:30-7am & 7:30-8:30am CT (details on IG)
    • Local Twin Cities pop-up yoga events (check IG for updates)

    Notable Quotes:

    • “Instead of doing it all, feel it all. Feel everything that is happening, whether you are angry, whether you are sad — feel it all.”
    • “You are going to identify your own patterns. If you know that you are suffering from your patterns, then you are going to start questioning them, and then you can change them.”
    • “Give yourself that one hour of undisrupted time. If your brain is out there, you should be out there—not on the mat.”
    • “It’s not my journey, it’s your journey. I’m just helping you out with the tools.”

    Summary:
    Learn how to set boundaries, cultivate awareness, and build resilience—one breath at a time—through wit, honesty, and action from the mat to daily life. Listen now for bold insights you’ll want to put into practice today!


    Call to Action:

    If this episode sparked a new idea, gave you a fresh perspective, or made you feel seen, share it with a friend or fellow powerhouse woman. Subscribe to the Power Lunch

    Podcast so you never miss an episode, and remember: keep showing up, keep rising, and there’s no ceiling you can’t break through!

    Connect with us:

    • ⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠

    • ⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠

    • ⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠

    • ⁠⁠⁠⁠Linktree⁠⁠⁠⁠

    • ⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠

    Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode, and share this podcast with someone who could use a little midday inspiration!

    続きを読む 一部表示
    27 分
  • 010: Rapid-Fire Holiday Vibes Edition
    2025/12/16

    Our Hosts: Tracie Munce, Amy Sousa & Lisa Carmichael

    A festive, fast-paced episode filled with cheer, connection, and a whole lot of personality.

    In this special holiday edition of the Power Lunch Podcast, Tracie, Amy, and Lisa swap the deep dives for rapid-fire questions and quick-hit reflections. It is fun, cozy, and exactly the kind of energy you want during the holiday rush.

    Settle in for a joyful mix of laughter and insight as they share:

    • Favorite holiday drinks, from classic cocoa to something with a little extra cheer
    • One-word themes for 2025 and why each word matters • Traditions that never get old, including decorations, caroling, and matching PJs
    • The biggest lessons learned in 2025 (consistency, release, openness)
    • Go-to holiday movies everyone should watch at least once • Gift-buying personalities: the early planner vs. the last-minute sprinter
    • What they’re leaving behind and what they’re carrying into 2026 • Holiday foods they absolutely cannot resist
    • Intentions and hopes for the new year

    As you listen, consider this our heartfelt wish for you: may your holidays be filled with connection, joy, and the people who make this season meaningful.

    Call to Action:

    If this episode sparked a new idea, gave you a fresh perspective, or made you feel seen, share it with a friend or fellow powerhouse woman. Subscribe to the Power Lunch Podcast so you never miss an episode, and remember: keep showing up, keep rising, and there’s no ceiling you can’t break through!

    Connect with us: glassceilingfoundation.org

    Call to Action:

    If this episode sparked a new idea, gave you a fresh perspective, or made you feel seen, share it with a friend or fellow powerhouse woman. Subscribe to the Power Lunch Podcast so you never miss an episode, and remember: keep showing up, keep rising, and there’s no ceiling you can’t break through!

    Connect with us:

    • ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    • ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    • ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    • ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Linktree⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    • ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠

    Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode, and share this podcast with someone who could use a little midday inspiration!

    続きを読む 一部表示
    6 分