Leslie Youngblood speaks with Jill Mari Embry, founder of Balance Innovation Center, about the challenges women face in the male-dominated medical device industry. They discuss personal experiences of bias, the importance of female leadership, and the need for innovation in reproductive health. Jill shares her insights on navigating workplace dynamics, the significance of being heard, and the power of collaboration among women in STEM. The conversation highlights the historical context of women's rights and the ongoing struggle for equality in the workplace.

About Our Guest

• Jill Mari Embry - Founder/CEO Balance Innovation Center
• Balance Innovation Center Website
• Connect with Jill on LinkedIn
• Follow Balance Innovation Center on LinkedIn

Key Takeaways

• Navigating workplace dynamics can be challenging for women in tech.
• Feeling heard and valued is crucial for women in the workplace.
• Cultural differences impact the perception of gender bias.
• The need for female leadership is evident in various sectors.
• Women founders often come more prepared than their male counterparts.
• Addressing dismissiveness in medical appointments is vital for women's health.

Leslie interviews Virginia Puccio, CEO of Fuel AI. They discuss Virginia's journey from working in tech to founding her own company, the importance of women in the AI space, and the ethical considerations in AI development. Virginia shares her insights on leadership, the challenges of building a startup, and how community ties influence her leadership style. The conversation emphasizes the need for diversity in tech and the role of everyday people in shaping AI.

About Our Guest

• Virgina Puccio, Co-Founder of Fuel AI
• Fuel AI website
• Connect with Virginia on LinkedIn
• Follow Fuel AI on LinkedIn

Key Takeaways

• Fuel AI aims to democratize the AI industry by allowing individuals to monetize their data.
• Women in tech can help reduce bias in AI systems.
• Leadership is about inspiring and rallying people, not just managing them.
• Building a startup involves continuous self-reinvention and learning.
• Community ties shape leadership styles and decision-making.
• Sports experience translates well into business leadership.
• Ethical considerations in AI are crucial for building trust.
• Transparency with users is essential for ethical AI practices.
• Everyday people can contribute to AI development through platforms like Fuel AI.

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Host Leslie Youngblood engages in a deep conversation with EJ Kim and Marina Pen, co-founders of NNABI, a wellness startup focused on supporting women through perimenopause. They discuss the concept of perimenopause as a 'second puberty,' the personal challenges they faced, and how they navigate leading a company while managing their health. The conversation emphasizes the importance of education, community support, and self-care for women in midlife, as well as the mission of NNABI to empower women during this transformative phase of life.

About Our Guests

• EJ Kim and Marina Pen, Co-Founders of NNABI
• Connect with EJ on LinkedIn
• Connect with Marina on LinkedIn
• NNABI website
  
  

Key Takeaways

• Perimenopause is often referred to as a second puberty, highlighting the need for education and support.
• Women often feel overwhelmed during perimenopause, mistaking symptoms for personal failings.
• Understanding perimenopause can lead to better management of symptoms and improved quality of life.
• Building a business while managing health challenges requires pacing and self-care.
• Leadership evolves with age and experience, leading to greater confidence and clarity.
• The health and wellness space often normalizes women's discomfort, which needs to change.
• Creating a supportive community is essential for women navigating perimenopause.
• Resilience and purpose drive the founders to continue their mission despite challenges.

Host Leslie Youngblood speaks with Mandana Milano, founder of Peony Talent, about the challenges and fears that come with entrepreneurship, particularly focusing on financial literacy and the necessity of rebuilding a business. They discuss the importance of facing financial fears, the value of active learning, and the need to adapt and evolve in response to market changes. Mandana shares her personal experiences of navigating financial uncertainty and the various phases of rebuilding her business, emphasizing the importance of staying true to one's mission and values while embracing change.

About Our Guest

• Mandana Mellano, founder of Peony Talent
• Peony Talent website
• Connect with Mandana on LinkedIn
• Follow Peony Talent on LinkedIn

Key Takeaways

• Financial literacy is crucial for entrepreneurs.
• Don't avoid financial discussions; lean into them.
• It's okay to feel overwhelmed by finances.
• Rebuilding is a necessary part of business growth.
• Trust your intuition when making business decisions.
• Active learning can change the trajectory of your business.
• Stay true to your mission while adapting to change.
• Change is scary, but it's also an opportunity for growth.
• You can learn from financial missteps; they are not failures.
• Bet on yourself and your abilities. You won't be disappointed.

Leslie Youngblood interviews Nancy Yaklich, an innovation leader who has transformed various industries through technology. They discuss the importance of customer-centric innovation, the challenges and opportunities in emerging technologies, and the role of women in tech. Nancy shares her experiences in navigating corporate environments, securing executive support for innovative ideas, and the significance of learning from failures. The conversation emphasizes the need for collaboration, understanding customer needs, and the importance of taking risks in the pursuit of innovation.

About Our Guest

• Nancy Yaklich, AI Innovator & Cleantech Pioneer
• Connect with Nancy on LinkedIn

Key Takeaways

• Innovation comes from understanding and solving customer problems.
• Direct communication with customers can yield valuable insights.
• The middle ground in innovation offers significant opportunities.
• Proving concepts through data is crucial for securing funding.
• Women in tech are breaking barriers and paving the way for future leaders.
• Embracing AI and emerging technologies is essential for growth.
• Learning from failures is a key part of the innovation process.
• Disruption is necessary for progress in traditional industries.
• Balancing visionary leadership with a focus on people is vital.
• Networking and finding support systems can enhance entrepreneurial success.

Leslie Youngblood speaks with Dr. Mary O'Connor, co-founder of VORI Health, about her journey from a successful orthopedic surgeon to a healthcare entrepreneur. They discuss the challenges within traditional healthcare systems, the importance of patient-centered care, and the need for more women in leadership roles in healthcare. Dr. O'Connor shares insights on addressing health disparities, advocating for oneself in healthcare, and the future of a more holistic approach to patient care.

About Our Guest

• Dr. Mary O'Connor, MD - Co-Founder of VORI Health
• VORI Health Website
• Connect with Dr. O'Connor on LinkedIn
• Follow VORI Health on LinkedIn
• Order Dr. O'Connor's Book on Amazon
  
  

Key Takeaways

• Traditional healthcare systems often prioritize profit over patient-centered care.
• VORI Health aims to provide innovative, non-surgical musculoskeletal care through a virtual platform.
• Health disparities are prevalent, especially in rural areas, and need to be addressed.
• Diversity in healthcare leadership leads to better decision-making and outcomes.
• Women in healthcare should advocate for themselves and seek providers who listen.
• Financial freedom allows for career pivots and opportunities for women in healthcare.
• The future of healthcare should focus on holistic, patient-centered approaches.
• Education on women's health issues is crucial for both patients and healthcare providers.

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Leslie Youngblood and Olga Topchaya explore the intersection of AI and parenthood, discussing Olga's journey from marketing to AI consulting. They delve into the challenges women face in adopting new technologies, the importance of risk-taking, and how AI can serve as a tool for empowerment and innovation. The discussion highlights the evolving landscape of AI and the need for continuous learning and adaptation in both parenting and business. They explore how to navigate the complexities of business decisions, the necessity of adaptability in a rapidly changing landscape, and the importance of emotional intelligence in AI development. Olga shares practical advice for female entrepreneurs on focusing their efforts, trusting their instincts, and embracing the opportunities presented by AI.

About Our Guest

• Olga Topchaya, Founder of Lapis Consults
• Lapis Consults Website
• Connect with Olga on LinkedIn
• Follow Lapis Consults on LinkedIn

Key Takeaways

• AI is a transformative tool for businesses and individuals.
• Parenthood and AI share similarities in adaptability and learning.
• Women often face risk aversion in adopting new technologies.
• The gender gap in AI adoption is significant and concerning.
• AI can alleviate some of the pressures of entrepreneurship.
• Continuous learning is essential in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.
• Embracing imperfection can lead to greater innovation.
• AI coaching is crucial for navigating the complexities of technology. Coaching should start with identifying the problem to solve.

In this conversation, CJ Nord discusses her innovative approach to transforming industrial waste into community power through sustainable supply chain practices. She emphasizes the importance of circular supply chains, community benefits, and the role of women in leadership within the industry. CJ shares her journey of overcoming challenges, building relationships, and inspiring the next generation to engage in sustainability efforts. The discussion highlights the potential for significant environmental impact and the importance of collaboration in achieving these goals.

About Our Guest

• CJ Nord - Founder of Supply Chains for Good
• Supply Chains for Good website
• Connect with CJ on LinkedIn

Key Takeaways

• CJ Nord has over 30 years of experience in supply chain management.
• Her initiative focuses on turning industrial waste into community power.
• Circular supply chains are essential for sustainability.
• Building relationships and networking are key to success in the industry.
• Community benefits include job creation and energy independence.
• Inspiring the next generation is crucial for sustainability efforts.
• Women in leadership can navigate male-dominated industries effectively.
• Collaboration with academia can drive innovation and solutions.
• The future of manufacturing can be sustainable and community-focused.
• Entrepreneurs should start with a problem they are passionate about solving.