Marcia Dawood's journey into angel investing began in 2012 when she attended an angel investing meeting in Pittsburgh. Previously working in sales, marketing, and operations within corporate America, she was intrigued and fascinated by the world of entrepreneurship and investing in early-stage companies. Initially unaware of the opportunities that existed locally and globally, Marcia quickly immersed herself in the field. Overcoming the misconceptions that one needs a finance degree or significant wealth to invest, she discovered that anyone with curiosity and willingness to learn could participate. Marsha is the author of Do Good While Doing Well, Invest For Change, Reap Financial Rewards, and Increase Your Happiness. She's currently working on a new book. Unapologetic Wealth, and she's also an associate producer on the award-winning documentary. Show Her the Money. She's a TEDx speaker, host of the Angel Nextdoor podcast, and she really walks the talk and holds investments in over 50 early stage companies and funds. Previously, Marsha worked in sales, marketing and operations for capital education for over 16 years. She received an MBA from the University of North Carolina, Keenan Flagler Business School.

What You Will Hear in This Episode:

02:23 Marcia's Journey into Angel Investing

04:07 Debunking Myths About Investing

05:53 Equity Crowdfunding Explained

12:24 Challenges for Women in Investing

15:10 Overcoming Investment Barriers

22:22 The Importance of Diversification

23:43 Marcia's Books and Resources

31:03 Conclusion and Final Thought

Quotes

"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take." - Wayne Gretzky.

“ You really don't have to have any, level of education other than to be curious and to surround yourself with other people who know a lot about, not just investing, but about the different industries. “

 ”We have been dealing with being held back from investing, from even getting a credit card, from owning property, you could go all the way back to when women got the right to vote. We weren't even allowed to have a credit card in our name until 1974. So there's a lot of things generationally that have happened that have held women back when it came to finances, and so. If we can start to demystify a lot of that, then we can hopefully get women to feel more comfortable with investing, with using their money for good.”

 ”I just really believe that women need to be more unapologetic about money, about gathering information so that they can have more wealth.”

Mentioned

 www.marciadawood.com

LinkedIn

Facebook

eConnect with Bonnie

Substack Newsletter: Own Your Ambition

Gendered Ageism Survey Results

Forbes article

5 Tips to own the superpower of your age

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Purchase my book Not Done Yet on Amazon:

If you enjoyed this episode of Badass Women Podcast, then make sure to subscribe to the podcast and drop us a five-star review

Yue Zhao's career began with aspirations rooted in a desire to help people, initially thinking she would become a doctor. However, her path led her into the tech industry, where she spent over 15 years as a product executive in Silicon Valley. Discovering the power of executive and leadership coaching became a pivotal point in her career. Inspired by her experiences and driven by her commitment to support underrepresented groups, Yue transitioned from a tech executive to a full-time executive coach. She now focuses on advancing the careers of women and minorities by leveraging her unique insights and personal journey. Through her Substack newsletter, "The Uncommon Executive," and her coaching work, Yue shares valuable lessons on leadership, overcoming challenges, and creating more inclusive workplaces. Yue has coached hundreds of aspiring executives since 2016, is an instructor at Reforge and Maven and is the author of the Uncommon Executive: Breakthrough to the C-Suite as a Minority. She's also been a VC back founder, venture partner at Life X Ventures and a consultant at McKinsey and Company. Yue has an MBA from Harvard Business School and a BS in Biomedical Engineering from the University of California at Berkeley

What You Will Hear in This Episode:

02:16 Youi's Journey: From Aspirations to Reality

03:52 Discovering Executive Coaching

06:22 Challenges and Triumphs in Silicon Valley

09:20 Leveraging Unique Perspectives

13:37 Coaching Women and Minorities

17:27 Addressing Gender Bias and DEI Efforts

22:03 Building a Web of Influence

23:04 Challenges in Career Advancement

25:03 The Importance of Advocacy and Relationships

33:24 Creating Inclusive Work Environments

Quotes

“Being able to empathize with multiple different perspectives is crucial.”

“Finding those moments where you can say, okay, who I am, and where I naturally come from, gives me a step up.”

“If I do the work and I do it really well, that’ll get me ahead.”

“When you've been in environments where you see what great looks like, you're like, ‘This should just be everywhere.”

Mentioned:

The Uncommon Executive subastack

LinkedIn

eConnect with Bonnie

Online Course for Ambitious Women: https://www.female-career-accelerator-online.com/

Substack Newsletter: Own Your Ambition

Gendered Ageism Survey Results

Forbes article

5 Tips to own the superpower of your age

IAMMusicGroup

Purchase my book Not Done Yet on Amazon:

If you enjoyed this episode of Badass Women Podcast, then make sure to subscribe to the podcast and drop us a five-star review

Kathy Caprino began her professional journey with ambitions of working in publishing. However, she soon found herself navigating a corporate career filled with numerous challenges as she climbed the corporate ladder. After a period of deep reflection, Kathy embraced her calling ultimately leading her to become an international career leadership and personal growth coach. She utilized her experiences and lessons learned to guide mid to high-level professionals toward achieving their highest potential. Kathy is a writer, speaker, and executive trainer helping mid to high level professionals advance, thrive and reach their highest, most rewarding potential. A LinkedIn Top Voice and former corporate VP, she's also a trained therapist, seasoned executive coach and a senior Forbes contributor and sought after media source on career issues. Kathy has authored two books, her latest is The Most Powerful You: Seven Bravery Boosting Paths to Career Blitz is also a training course for individuals and organizations that she offers. Kathy has been named a top 10 career coach for women and a leadership voice in the United States and globally.

What You Will Hear in This Episode:

01:48 Kathy's Early Career Journey

04:15 A Pivotal Moment

07:44 Lessons from Therapy

10:10 Empathy and Coaching

17:55 Understanding Power and Ambition

23:01 The Struggle with Societal Norms

28:23 The Power of Words

31:24 Recognizing Your Unique Talents and Owning Your Accomplishments

Quotes

"Reclaim your power by recognizing your value and the unique talents you bring to the table."

"Overcoming setbacks and imposter syndrome begins with believing in your own worthiness."

"Your story and experiences shape a unique and invaluable perspective. Celebrate that uniqueness every day."

True power comes from within. It’s about acting on your behalf, advocating for yourself, and being the author of your life."

"It's not about the title or the position, but about the impact you want to make and the legacy you want to leave." -

"Every setback is an opportunity for growth. Embrace it and let it propel you to new heights."

“To empower others, we must first empower ourselves. Understand your strengths and use them to inspire those around you."

.Mentioned:

Kathycaprino.com

Mostpowerfulyou.com

Finding Brave Podcast

LinkedIn

Twitter/X

eConnect with Bonnie

Online Course for Ambitious Women: https://www.female-career-accelerator-online.com/

Substack Newsletter: Own Your Ambition

Gendered Ageism Survey Results

Forbes article

5 Tips to own the superpower of your age

IAMMusicGroup

Purchase my book Not Done Yet on Amazon:

If you enjoyed this episode of Badass Women Podcast, then make sure to subscribe to the podcast and drop us a five-star review

Emily June Wilcox grew up in rural Michigan with aspirations of becoming a veterinarian, earning a degree in animal science. Her early career took unexpected turns, from horse training to pharmaceutical sales and eventually entrepreneurship.  Emily is a wealth and business coach, number one bestselling author and speaker on a mission to help others heal their money wounds and build financially and personally fulfilling lives. She's built two seven figure businesses, an e-commerce clothing company and an Amazon marketing agency. Now she focuses on using energetics and strategy to help women build their femme powers and walk the joyous path to millions. Emily hosts a top 2% global podcast, The Joyous Path to Millions, and her work has been featured in more than 400 major media outlets including A-B-C-N-B-C, Fox Associated Press and the Wall Street Times.

What You Will Hear in This Episode:

02:28 Emily's Journey

08:30 Money Wounds Explained

12:37 Impact of Money Wounds on Women

12:57 Strategic and Energetic Approaches

25:40 Impact Versus Income

31:55 Finding Joy on the Path to Millions

Quotes

"When we heal our hard money wound and we recognize that it's not about trading effort for income, it's about trading impact for income, then we start to orient differently."

"Cultivate your inner environment, decide that every single day, no matter the external circumstances, you can find something to feel joyful about."

"Entrepreneurship is a pretty unique personal development vehicle that most of us don't realize until we start doing it.”

"When we can get back to more of that understanding that money is a resource and that it really is independent of us as a human being and our contribution to the planet, the cleaner the energy becomes, and then we're better able to position ourselves to make more."

.Mentioned:

emilywilcox.com

Instagram

Facebook

TikTok

LinkedIn

eConnect with Bonnie

Substack Newsletter: Own Your Ambition

Gendered Ageism Survey Results

Forbes article

5 Tips to own the superpower of your age

IAMMusicGroup

Purchase my book Not Done Yet on Amazon:

If you enjoyed this episode of Badass Women Podcast, then make sure to subscribe to the podcast and drop us a five-star review

Growing up in a family that didn't view a career in the arts as feasible, Kathryn Burnett pursued writing with determination, transitioning from magazine articles to professional screenwriting. She faced numerous challenges, particularly in a competitive industry that often overlooks middle-aged women. Post-menopause, Kathryn experienced a personal transformation, embracing her true self and taking greater creative risks. This shift led to a focus on complex, authentic female protagonists, inspired by real-life experiences and conversations. Her writing now champions strong, relatable women, pushing back against clichéd portrayals. Kathryn emphasizes the importance of defining personal success, trusting oneself, and not fearing failure. In addition to her creative work, she shares her insights through coaching writing and her book, 'The Productive Writer Guidebook.' Kathryn continues to explore new projects, driven by her passion for storytelling and commitment to depicting multifaceted female characters.

What You Will Hear in This Episode:

2:15 - Kathryn's Background and Journey

6:45 - Turning Point in Kathryn's Career

10:05 - Challenges in the Screenwriting Industry

15:30 - Defining Success

20:10 - Kathryn's Post-Menopause Transformation

25:00 - Impact on Writing

30:20 - The Power of Female Protagonists

35:55 - Inspiration Behind Kathryn's Play

40:15 - The Writer's Journey and Coaching

45:25 - Current and Future Projects

50:50 - Advice for Aspiring Writers

Quotes

“There's always going to be someone with an opinion of you.”

“There's making a living and then there's making a great living.”

“The world doesn't fall over if you fail or get it wrong.”

“I think loads of creatives will tell you the same. It's just never a smooth journey. I mean, life never is.”

Mentioned:

www.kathryn-burnett.com

LinkedIn

Facebook

Twitter/X

eConnect with Bonnie

Substack Newsletter: Own Your Ambition

Gendered Ageism Survey Results

Forbes article

5 Tips to own the superpower of your age

IAMMusicGroup

Purchase my book Not Done Yet on Amazon:

If you enjoyed this episode of Badass Women Podcast, then make sure to subscribe to the podcast and drop us a five-star review

Inspired to push back against gendered ageism, Stella Fosse began writing vivid, sexy stories about older women inspired by an article by a 50-year-old romance writer in the New York Times that pushed her to challenge industry norms that favored younger characters. Her involvement in a local writing series called "Dirty Old Women," where women over 50 read erotic stories to live audiences, further solidified her mission. Through her experiences in online dating in her 60s and meeting her partner at 62, Stella drew inspiration for her novels, including her first book, "Brilliant, Charming Bastard," and her later works centered on older women. Stella Fosse spent many years as a technical writer in biotechnology, managing a demanding career while raising her four children. Upon retiring, she pursued her passion for storytelling. Stella continues to empower and encourage women over 50 to share their vibrant stories and creativity through her books, workshops, and blog.

What You Will Hear in This Episode:

01:17 Stella's Journey

05:28 Writing Workshops and Books

15:53 Pandemic and Creativity

18:33 Challenges of Writing and Marketing

21:35 Support and Community

30:15 Upcoming Projects

Quotes

“The key, I think, is to find the creativity within the marketing and publicity process.”

“I'm in my seventies now and when you've lived as long as I have, there is an awful lot of material to” draw from.

“It's up to the woman to decide how she embraces and uses her own sexuality.”

“If she can see it, she can be it.”

“We're all unique and freeing ourselves to step out of the box and enjoy life is truly badass.”

Mentioned:

www.stellafosse.com

Substack

Instagram

Facebook

Linkedin

eConnect with Bonnie

Substack Newsletter: Own Your Ambition

Gendered Ageism Survey Results

Forbes article

5 Tips to own the superpower of your age

IAMMusicGroup

Purchase my book Not Done Yet on Amazon:

If you enjoyed this episode of Badass Women Podcast, then make sure to subscribe to the podcast and drop us a five-star review

8/19/2025

Rebecca "Becky" Faye Smith Galli's life is marked by resilience despite profound losses. She faced significant challenges, including the death of her brother, her son's degenerative disease and death, her daughter's autism, a divorce, and her own paralysis from transverse myelitis. Despite these challenges, Becky has found strength and purpose through writing which led her to a writing career, authoring books and columns that inspire others with messages of love, loss, and healing. Becky's story highlights the importance of honesty, support systems, and finding positivity and purpose amidst adversity. Her career began with a column in the Baltimore Sun, which evolved into a prolific writing journey. She has authored books such as "Rethinking Possible" and "Morning Fuel," which reflect her belief that life can still be good despite difficult circumstances. Her column, "Thoughtful Thursdays," continues to inspire her readers with lessons on resilience and positivity.

What You Will Hear in This Episode:

02:21 Becky's Personal Story

02:37 Learning from Grief and Loss

04:55 The Power of Honesty and Support

08:06 Resilience and Positivity

12:49 The Mind-Body Connection

14:49 Writing Therapy

24:56 Memoir Writing Process

30:08 Future Writing and Closing Remarks

Quotes

“Sometimes the challenges that women face, no matter how significant, can lead to opening up new opportunities.”

“Your grief is as unique as your fingerprint.”

“Life can be good no matter what.”

“You can act your way into a new way of thinking.”

Mentioned:

BeckyGalli.com

@ChairWriter

Instagram

Facebook

Linkedin

Twitter/X

eConnect with Bonnie

Substack Newsletter: Own Your Ambition

Gendered Ageism Survey Results

Forbes article

5 Tips to own the superpower of your age

IAMMusicGroup

Purchase my book Not Done Yet on Amazon:

If you enjoyed this episode of Badass Women Podcast, then make sure to subscribe to the podcast and drop us a five-star review

Through her own journey of healing from multiple traumas, including an abusive relationship, Elyssa Smith studied and developed methods to hack the survival brain, rewiring the limiting beliefs that were keeping her stuck. Elyssa is a trauma informed life strategist who helps female executives, entrepreneurs, and professionals squash their limiting beliefs and heal from hidden trauma so they can stop playing small and get to their next level. As a nervous system regulation and mindset mastery expert, she now gets to equip other women with tools and techniques that not only saved her life and skyrocketed her business, but will actually reprogram their brains to unleash their wildest potential for unprecedented success and happiness. Elyssa has been featured in Forbes, she's been on the TEDx stage, and is a regular contributor on Fox 59 Morning News.

What You Will Hear in This Episode:

02:33 Elyssa's Personal Journey of Healing

04:43 The Impact of Hidden Trauma

06:53 Lessons Learned and Overcoming Self-Sabotage

12:41 Gender Differences in Self-Sabotage

15:10 Reprogramming the Brain for Lasting Change

22:23 Exploring Family Dynamics and Hidden Criticism

26:19 Understanding Healthy Attachment and Reparenting

31:28 The Concept of Tiny T Trauma

36:26 Addressing the Inner Critic

Quotes

“We all have the potential to be a badass.”

“Our negative thoughts and beliefs, our fears, our self doubt, prevent us from stepping up and living our best life.”

“Your survival brain literally forms based on what you went through as a kid.”

“There's no healing in shame.”

“If you want lasting change, you've got to create new neural pathways.”

“The inner critic is the number one survival brain response.”

Mentioned:

LinkedIn

Facebook

Instagram

eConnect with Bonnie

Online Course for Ambitious Women: https://www.female-career-accelerator-online.com/

Substack Newsletter: Own Your Ambition

Gendered Ageism Survey Results

Forbes article

5 Tips to own the superpower of your age

IAMMusicGroup

Purchase my book Not Done Yet on Amazon:

If you enjoyed this episode of Badass Women Podcast, then make sure to subscribe to the podcast and drop us a five-star review