The salient point of this episode revolves around the imperative of empowering women, particularly those over the age of 50, to seize control of their financial destinies and embrace the notion that they possess more runway in life than they might perceive.

In this enlightening discourse, I, engage with Sherry Finkel Murphy, the esteemed Founder and CEO of Madrina  Molly®, who ardently advocates for women's financial independence and education through innovative planning and storytelling.

We delve into the experiences that have shaped Sherry's journey, illuminating the challenges and triumphs faced by women in the financial landscape.

Through her initiatives, Sherry endeavors to create a safe space where women can ask critical financial questions without fear of judgment, thereby fostering a community of support and empowerment.

This episode seeks to inspire our listeners to recognize their inherent strength and potential for reinvention, regardless of age or circumstance.

About Madrina Molly®

Madrina Molly® is a subscription-based financial and longevity education platform designed to meet women where they are — without shame, jargon, or intimidation. Through storytelling, Q&A, and mini-courses, Sherry bridges the gap between professional financial planning and real-life decision-making.

It’s education rooted in dignity, clarity, and agency.

Takeaways:

• Sherry articulates the importance of financial independence for women, particularly those aged fifty and over, advocating for proactive financial planning.
• A significant theme discussed is the necessity for women to embrace their own narratives and assert their influence within their industries.
• The episode explores the concept of leveraging one's experiences and wisdom to foster intergenerational relationships, particularly between women and their families.

Chapters:

04:39 The Power of Perseverance: A Discussion on Life Lessons

12:21 The Triple Decker Club Sandwich Generation

16:11 Navigating Life's Transitions: The Opportunity for Freedom

23:25 Planning for the Future: The Importance of Exit Strategies

28:59 Building Professional Relationships

36:21 The Caregiving Crisis and Women's Empowerment

39:32 The Journey of Wisdom and Empowerment

Burning Questions Answered:

1.What if the way we’ve been taught to think about money… was never designed for women?

2.What if midlife isn’t a closing chapter — but the beginning of your most powerful one?

3.And what if the real risk isn’t spending too much… but waiting too long to live fully?

4.How do you build a business, a life, and a future that honors both ambition and wellbeing?

Favorite Quotes:

"No one ever wishes they worked harder. We each get 168 hours a week.”

“Begin with the end in mind — that’s how you know if you have a business or a labor of love.”

“There are two ways to flunk retirement: running out of money… or never living.”

Guest Offers & Contact Information:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-c-firtle-a101511b/

https://www.instagram.com/bridgetcfirtle/?hl=en

Follow the #WisdomOfWomen show for more inspiring stories and insights from trailblazing women founders, investors, and experts in growth and prosperity.

YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/yja3w7nh

Spotify:

The salient point of this weeks episode is the remarkable journey of Bridget Firtlel, a dynamic entrepreneur who has successfully navigated the worlds of finance and spirits.

Bridget, previously entrenched in the high-stakes environment of Wall Street, transitioned to founding Owney’s Rum, a venture that has flourished under her leadership. In a significant turn of events,

Bridget shares her recent decision to repurchase Owney’s Rum from Proximo Spirits, marking a pivotal moment in her entrepreneurial narrative.

Throughout the discussion, we explore the complexities of her dual role as a founder and a mother, delving into the notion of success that transcends mere financial gain to encompass personal fulfillment and family priorities.

We invite our listeners to reflect on the insights shared by Bridget as she articulates her vision for the future, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and resilience in the journey of business development.

Our Guest This Week:

In this week’s episode of #WisdomofWomen we have a 🌟 Cocktail Capitalist🌟 in our midst!

Bridget Firtle is a powerhouse founder who left a high-flying Wall Street hedge fund career to build one of New York’s most beloved spirits brands—Owney’s Rum—long before “craft distilling” was a movement. With her rare blend of financial acumen and street-level grit, she grew Owney’s into a national success and forged a strategic partnership with Proximo Spirits before successfully exiting in 2020. Never one to stay still, Bridget went on to found Rockaway Soda, launch New York Raised Us, and establish The Cyclone Group—all while investing in and advising purpose-driven ventures. Recognized by Forbes 30 Under 30, The Financial Times, The New York Times, and CNBC, she’s known for breaking molds, building legacies, and leading with fierce independence. A native New Yorker to the core, Bridget brings both edge and empathy to the entrepreneurial game—proving that building a company of substance starts with the courage to bet it all on your vision.

Takeaways:

• Bridget's journey showcases the transition from Wall Street to founding a successful spirits brand.
• The conversation highlights the challenges and triumphs of being a woman entrepreneur and mother.
• Bridget's repurchase of Owney’s Rum signifies her commitment to her vision and entrepreneurial roots.
• The episode reflects on the evolving definition of success beyond financial gain to personal fulfillment.
• Listeners are encouraged to embrace their unique paths and pursue authentic definitions of success.

Chapters:

00:07 Amplifying Women's Voices in Leadership

00:32 Bridget's Journey: From Wall Street to Craft Distilling

13:24 Navigating Business Challenges

20:24 The Balancing Act: Entrepreneurship and Parenthood

28:33 The Evolution of Success

Burning Questions Answered:

1.What does it take to walk away from a successful exit… and then choose to reclaim the company you built?

2.How do you know when it’s time to return to the work that once lit you up?

3.What does “success” actually mean after you've lived the corporate path, exited a company, and become a mother?

4.How do you build boldly while honoring your values, your family, and your independence?

GUEST OFFERS & CONTACT INFORMATION:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-c-firtle-a101511b/

https://www.instagram.com/bridgetcfirtle/?hl=en

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In our new episode, the topic of discussion revolves around the imperative for women in business to cultivate a leadership style that aligns with authenticity and well-being, as articulated by our distinguished guest, Roslyn McLarty.

As the founder and CEO of Within, a platform dedicated to aiding purpose-driven entrepreneurs, Roslyn shares her profound insights on navigating the complexities of founder burnout and the importance of self-awareness in the entrepreneurial journey.

Throughout our dialogue, we explore the transformative power of aligning personal values with professional endeavors, particularly in a landscape often dominated by the hustle culture. Rosalind’s journey, from co-founding a successful sports media brand to recognizing the detrimental effects of traditional grind culture, underscores the necessity for women leaders to redefine success on their own terms.

In sharing her experiences and the methodologies she employs, we aim to empower our listeners to foster resilience and authenticity in their own entrepreneurial pursuits.

Our Guest This Week:

In this week’s episode of #WisdomofWomen we have a 🌟 🌟 in our midst!

Roslyn McLarty is the Founder & CEO of Within, a personal development platform helping purpose-led founders build companies that scale impact without sacrificing their well-being.

Before launching Within, she co-founded The GIST, the groundbreaking women-run digital sports media brand making sports more inclusive and fun for millions of underserved fans.

At The GIST, Roslyn grew the company to a multi-million-dollar enterprise with a 40-person team — predominantly women and non-binary folks — earning recognition as a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree and attracting backing from Facebook, Comcast NBC, Techstars, and Billie Jean King’s Trailblazer Program.

Her own experience of founder burnout revealed the hidden cost of traditional “grind culture” and inspired her to help visionary entrepreneurs align success with authenticity, joy, and longevity.

Today, through Within’s coaching, content, and community, Roslyn empowers founders to scale purpose-driven companies while staying deeply connected to who they truly are.

Takeaways:

• Burnout among founders reveals the detrimental effects of traditional grind culture on well-being.
• Roslyn's journey emphasizes the importance of aligning personal integrity with entrepreneurial success.
• Emphasizing intuition and creativity leads to sustainable business practices and authentic leadership.
• Engaging in emotional intelligence and self-awareness fosters better decision-making in leadership roles.
• The episode advocates for a new model of leadership that honors women's unique experiences and contributions.

Chapters:

00:07 Amplifying Women's Voices in Business

07:25 The Journey of a Founder: From Burnout to Authenticity

11:13 Understanding Burnout: A Personal Journey

16:57 Finding Alignment: The Path to Self-Discovery and Business Success

21:47 The Role of Intuition in Business Growth

32:21 Transitioning to a New Approach in Leadership

34:06 The Spiritual Journey of Entrepreneurship

Burning Questions Answered:

1. What does burnout really look like when you’re ignoring the signs?
2. Why do founders cling to perfectionism, people-pleasing, and control — and how do you break the cycle?
3. How do you scale a company without sacrificing your wellbeing, identity, or intuition?
4. What does it take to build a business from your deepest alignment — not fear?

Favorite Quotes:

"Entrepreneurship is a spiritual journey.”

“The...

The primary focus of our discussion centers on the transformative impact of Gentreo, an innovative online estate planning platform founded by Renee Fry.

Through the lens of personal anecdotes and professional insights, we explore how Gentreo is revolutionizing estate planning by making it accessible, affordable, and comprehensible for families across the United States.

Renee's unique experiences, including overcoming significant health challenges, have shaped her vision for a service that not only simplifies the estate planning process but also empowers families to make informed decisions.

The conversation delves into the importance of addressing these often-daunting tasks proactively, ensuring that individuals do not leave their loved ones burdened with uncertainty. We invite our listeners to consider the profound implications of estate planning and how Gentreo can facilitate a smoother path toward securing one’s legacy for future generations.

Our Guest This Week:

In this week’s episode of #WisdomofWomen we have an 🌟 Revolutionary Estate-Building Innovator🌟 in our midst!

Renee Fry is the CEO and Co-Founder of Gentreo, a pioneering online estate planning platform that makes protecting what matters most simple, affordable, and accessible. With a career spanning public policy, entrepreneurship, and leadership in high-growth ventures, Renee helped lead GT Solar’s IPO and served in Governor Mitt Romney’s cabinet before launching her own company. A graduate of Penn State and Harvard Business School, she has guided Gentreo into partnerships with more than 100 credit unions, banks, and organizations nationwide. Her vision is to transform estate planning from a daunting, expensive task into an empowering experience for every family. Featured in outlets like Forbes and Kiplinger’s, Renee is a glassbreaking leader committed to changing how America plans for the future—one family at a time.

Takeaways:

• Renee discusses the transformative vision behind her estate planning platform, Gentreo.
• Listeners are encouraged to understand that estate planning is vital for all families.
• The episode highlights personal stories that shaped the speaker's journey as an entrepreneur.
• Renee's experience with unexpected health challenges underscored the significance of having a solid estate plan.
• The conversation stresses the need for accessible and affordable estate planning solutions for everyone.

Chapters:

03:46 - Personal Growth and Overcoming Challenges

11:04 - The Birth of Gentrio

19:47 - Approach to Growth and Partnerships

23:11 - Navigating Life Milestones

36:00 - Legacy and Inspiration: A Family's Journey

38:03 - Inspiring the Next Generation

Burning Questions Answered:

1.Why do so many families get stuck—or blindsided—when something unexpected happens?

2.What does “estate planning you can actually use in real life” look like?

3.How do personal crises shape the companies we feel called to build?

Guest Offers & Contact Information:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/renee-fry-a4ab133/

Follow the #WisdomOfWomen show for more inspiring stories and insights from trailblazing women founders, investors, and experts in growth and prosperity.

YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/yja3w7nh

Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/4tak8ajk

Amazon Prime:

Our episode this week revolves around the transformative power of women's entrepreneurship and the critical importance of amplifying women's voices in the business sphere. We are privileged to host Wendy Diamond, a distinguished entrepreneur and advocate for compassionate capitalism, who has dedicated her career to empowering women globally. She elucidates her journey of creating Women's Entrepreneurship Day, an initiative aimed at fostering economic empowerment and systemic change for women entrepreneurs.

Through her numerous ventures, Wendy highlights the significant impact that women-led enterprises can have on societal progress and economic development. This episode serves as a rallying call for listeners to engage with and support the movement towards gender equality in business, emphasizing the vital role of collaboration and community in achieving these goals.

Our Guest This Week:

In this week’s episode of #WisdomofWomen we have a 🌟 Trailblazing Visionary of Compassionate Capitalism 🌟 in our midst! She is a Legendary Firestarter for Women Worldwide!

Wendy Diamond is a serial entrepreneur, impact investor, and global changemaker whose ventures span business, philanthropy, and media. She is the founder of LDP Ventures and the visionary behind the Women’s Entrepreneurship Day Organization (WEDO), a movement celebrated in 144 countries and 65 universities to empower women in business worldwide. Wendy also pioneered the pet lifestyle industry as Chief Pet Officer of Animal Fair Media, Inc., where she built the first-ever media company devoted to animal rescue and the pet–human bond. As an author of 10 books, sought-after global speaker, and frequent media guest, she has amplified conversations around purpose-driven business, women’s leadership, and social good. Recognized by the United Nations, she continues to convene heads of state, investors, and women founders to drive systemic change through entrepreneurship.

Takeaways:

• Women's Entrepreneurship Day, established in 2013, aims to empower women globally through entrepreneurship.
• Wendy's initiatives focus on providing microloans to impoverished women, fostering economic empowerment.
• The collaboration of governments and business leaders is essential to create systemic change for women entrepreneurs.
• Empathy and community are critical for successful entrepreneurship, as demonstrated by Wendy Diamond's journey.
• The Women's Entrepreneurship Day Organization actively seeks to engage women in meaningful collaborations worldwide.

Burning Questions Answered:

1.What actually happens when you join WEDO — beyond the feel-good impact?

2.How has Wendy designed WEDO so members get access, education, and community that genuinely moves their businesses forward?

3.What kinds of rooms does WEDO open for women — from the UN to hedge fund salons to maximum security prisons?

4.How can you contribute as an ambassador, member, or founder in a way that feels aligned and sustainable?

Chapters:

05:24 The Birth of Women's Entrepreneurship Day

15:11 Empowering Women Entrepreneurs

16:51 The Impact of Women's Entrepreneurship Day

26:08 Shifting Focus to Impactful Causes

Favorite Quotes:

“You’d rather have a little of something huge than a lot of nothing.”

“Wherever you are in this world, you can make a difference.”

Guest Offers & Contact Information:

Attend the WEDO Summit on November 14th – Virtual or in NYC at the United Nations:

In this new episode I'm joined by Frances Zelanzny, co-founder and CEO of Anonybit, a company dedicated to redefining privacy and identity security in the digital age.

We delve into Frances's extensive experience in the realms of cybersecurity and digital identity, exploring her unique perspective shaped by her background as a daughter of a Holocaust survivor and her professional encounters that have influenced her courageous leadership.

Throughout our conversation, we illuminate the critical importance of privacy-preserving technologies, particularly in an era where identity theft and fraud are rampant. As we engage with Frances, we gain insights into her journey, the challenges she faces as a woman in a predominantly male industry, and her vision for a future where identity is safeguarded to promote social and economic progress. Ultimately, we emphasize the collective responsibility to enhance identity security and the transformative potential of women-led businesses in addressing these pressing issues.

Our Guest This Week:

In this week’s episode of #WisdomofWomen we have an 🌟 Privacy Pioneer🌟 in our midst!

Frances Zelazny is the Co-Founder & CEO of Anonybit, a pioneering decentralized biometrics company transforming how we protect identity and privacy in the digital age. With over 25 years of experience scaling enterprise SaaS across cybersecurity, fintech, digital identity, and analytics, she has built a reputation for turning complex technologies into market-defining businesses. She has shaped international policy on biometrics, working with governments, multilateral organizations, and the private sector to ensure responsible and impactful adoption. Recognized on the Women in Fintech Power List 100, SIA Women in Security Forum Power 100, and as one of the 25 Most Influential Women Leaders in Biometric Digital Identity, Frances is a fierce advocate for building innovative, privacy-first technologies that also advance social and economic progress

Takeaways:

• Frances's experience in biometrics positions her as a leader in privacy and identity protection.
• Identity is fundamental to social and economic development, impacting opportunities across all demographics.
• Frances emphasizes the importance of responsible technology deployment to ensure user privacy and security.

Chapters:

00:02 Amplifying Women in Leadership

05:01 Defining Moments of Advocacy and Innovation

10:12 The Importance of Privacy in Digital Identity

20:00 The Evolution of Biometric Technology and Privacy Challenges

31:59 The Impact of Digital Identity on Society

32:41 The Importance of Identity in Economic Development

Burning Questions Answered:

1.What does it truly mean to build “privacy-preserving” technology?

2.How did her father’s Holocaust survival shape her leadership and worldview?

3.Why is digital identity the foundation of social and economic progress?

4.What’s really at stake if we fail to secure digital identity?

5.How can founders design for ethics and responsibility from day one?

Favorite Quotes:

“We must operate under the assumption that all of our personal data is already on the dark web.”

“You can’t have innovation without responsibility.”

Guest Offers & Contact Information:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/franceszelazny/

https://anonybit.io

In this episode we are joined by an esteemed guest, Laurel Mintz, a distinguished figure at the intersection of marketing and venture capital, shares her journey as the founder and CEO of Elevate My Brand and general partner at Fabric VC.

With a commitment to amplifying the voices of underrepresented founders, Laurel elucidates her mission to foster innovation and drive impactful change within the business ecosystem.

Throughout our conversation, we delve into the intricacies of her unique approach to investments, emphasizing the importance of industry differentiation and the strategic application of marketing expertise in nurturing emerging brands.

Join us as we uncover valuable insights that illuminate the path toward prosperity for women-led enterprises, underscoring the significance of collaboration and support within this evolving landscape.

Our Guest This Week:

In this week’s episode of #WisdomofWomen we have an 🌟 Equity-Infused Brandsmith 🌟 in our midst!

Laurel Mintz is a powerhouse at the intersection of marketing and venture capital. As Founder & CEO of Elevate My Brand, she has spent 16 years architecting award-winning campaigns for icons like Verizon, Paw Patrol, Sprinklr, and Squishmallows, helping brands cut through the noise and scale with measurable growth. As General Partner of Fabric VC, she channels her expertise into backing diverse founders building the next wave of consumer-tech, health, and fintech innovations. Known for blending a marketer’s creativity with an investor’s rigor, Laurel champions purpose-led companies that drive both profit and impact. Her mission is simple yet bold: to elevate innovation, amplify underrepresented voices, and shape a business ecosystem that lifts humanity forward.

Takeaways:

• Laurel discusses her journey from family business to venture capital and marketing.
• The episode highlights the significance of industry differentiation for startup success.
• Listeners are encouraged to invest thoughtfully and educate themselves about the venture capital process.
• Coco and Laurel stress the necessity for women to engage in investing and support diverse founders.
• The episode concludes with a call to action for women-led businesses to create positive societal change.

Chapters:

00:08 The Emerging Model of Leadership

04:19 Exploring the Entrepreneurial Journey

12:17 Differentiating in the Venture Space

27:20 Founders and Their Financial Journeys

30:03 Getting in the Game: Small Checks and Big Opportunities

Burning Questions Answered:

1.What truly differentiates successful brands in crowded markets?

2.How can founders prepare their businesses to attract investment?

3.Why are women underrepresented as investors — and how can we change that?

4.What should first-time investors know before writing their first check?

5.How can women founders balance creativity, purpose, and profitability?

Favorite Quotes

“The only way to stand out is with differentiation. You’ve got to bring it.”

“Go forth, be fabulous, and make change possible.”

Guest Offers & Contact Information:

https://www.linkedin.com/company/fabric-vc

https://www.instagram.com/fabricventure/

Follow the #WisdomOfWomen show for more inspiring stories and insights from trailblazing women founders, investors, and experts in growth and prosperity.

YouTube:

In this episode I'm joined by Andrea Carpenter, a next-generation entrepreneur who is redefining leadership and succession in family businesses.

We engage in a profound exploration of her unconventional pathway, which includes acquiring and leading an established firm rather than adhering to the prevalent startup narrative.

Andrea expounds upon the intricacies of facilitating successful transitions while prioritizing interpersonal relationships and preserving the integrity of familial connections within business contexts. As we delve into pivotal moments that have shaped her vision, we uncover insights on the significance of intentional leadership and the need for strategic planning in ensuring the longevity and prosperity of women-led enterprises.

This episode serves not only as an inspiration but as a practical guide for aspiring leaders to navigate the complexities of business transitions with foresight and empathy.

Our Guest This Week:

Today we have a 🌟 Truth-Telling Transitionist🌟 in our midst!

Andrea Carpenter is a next-gen entrepreneur, G2 successor, and the incoming President of The Transition Strategists—where she helps families and founders design people-first business transitions that protect both relationships and results.

Her somewhat unconventional entrepreneurial journey—buying into and leading an established business instead of starting from scratch—challenges the dominant startup myth and offers a powerful alternative path. As the creator of Your Next Gen Friend, she’s built a soul-centered platform and podcast that gives rising leaders space to explore identity, wealth, and legacy with honesty, grace, and strength. A former UX designer turned transition strategist, Andrea understands both the technical mechanics and emotional layers of family business planning—because she’s lived it. With fierce clarity and generous wisdom, she’s helping the next generation step out from invisible pressure and into intentional leadership

Takeaways:

• Andrea emphasizes the importance of intentional business transitions that prioritize relationships and outcomes.
• The episodes discusses the significance of identifying pivotal moments in life that shape one's entrepreneurial journey and leadership style.
• Effective family business transitions require careful planning and consideration of the emotional and operational dynamics involved.
• The discussion highlights the necessity of establishing a clear vision for the future, particularly in navigating the complexities of business transitions.
• Listeners are encouraged to explore the Objectives Matrix, a tool designed to clarify personal and business priorities for effective decision-making.

Chapters:

03:19 Defining Moments in Life

10:20 Navigating Business Transitions

16:56 The Journey of Growth and Team Evolution

21:20 Transitioning Family Businesses

25:59 Transitioning Business Roles and Responsibilities

30:21 Transitioning Leadership and Business Values

Burning Questions Answered:

1.What does it really take to build a self-managing company that thrives beyond the founder?

2.How can second-generation leaders bring their own vision while honoring what came before?

3.Why do most business transitions fail—and how can women founders avoid the same traps?

4.How do you create space for new leadership without losing your company culture?

5.What are the emotional and strategic steps to design a successful handoff?

Favorite Quotes

“Sometimes what needs to die is just an old version of you.”

“It’s okay to build differently than the generation before you.”

“Legacy is powerful—but...