Women of Aurora

Amy Downing

Women of Aurora is a dedicated group of women entrepreneurs and leaders working in and around the City of Aurora, Illinois. Our podcast features interviews with the remarkable women from our group, as we discuss how to be successful in business and in life.

  1. 4 Apr

    Thriving Beyond Walls: Yolanda Dunn on Wellness, Entrepreneurship, and Empowering Women

    In this inspiring episode of the Women of Aurora podcast, co-hosts Marisol Perez and Megan Cole Bailey sit down with community wellness leader and entrepreneur Yolanda Dunn. Yolanda shares her journey from the corporate world to launching two thriving businesses—Leave Me Bee Pest Control Inc. and It’s Fit Time LLC—alongside her husband, Tito. She opens up about how faith, resilience, and a passion for helping others fueled her shift into full-time entrepreneurship.  Yolanda unpacks the often unspoken challenges of building a business, from navigating business credit and legal structures to harnessing local resources and adapting through hardships like the COVID-19 pandemic. With candid stories and practical advice, she reveals the discipline and mindset shifts required to thrive beyond setbacks—and how obedience, consistency, and self-care play a pivotal role in sustaining success. Wellness is at the heart of Yolanda’s mission. She describes the evolution of her fitness journey, the impact of community-based wellness experiences, and the importance of women putting their health first—whether it’s a simple walk or a full block party wellness festival. Learn how she’s expanding her movement through Strength in the City, monthly events, and ambitious plans for a holistic wellness center designed to support women at every stage of their lives. Whether you’re striving to level up your business, prioritize your wellness, or simply need motivation to step into your second act, this conversation will leave you empowered, uplifted, and ready to thrive beyond walls. Connect with Yolanda: - Leave Me Be Pest Control: Instagram & Facebook @LeaveMeBeInc   - It’s Fit Time: Instagram @itsfittime_now | Facebook: It’s Fit Time

  2. 22 Feb

    Leading with Heart: Mireya Bañuelos on Service, Growth & Community Impact

    Episode Summary In this inspiring episode of the Women of Aurora podcast, hosts Marisol Perez and Megan welcome Mireya Bañuelos — realtor, community advocate, and President of the Women’s Council of Realtors Fox Valley. Born in Mexico and raised on Aurora’s East Side, Mireya shares her journey of building a real estate career rooted in service, resilience, and adaptability. From navigating the ever-changing real estate market to leading major community initiatives like Aurora’s Fiestas Patrias celebration, Mireya opens up about what it means to serve others while continuing to grow personally. She also speaks candidly about grief, vulnerability, leadership, and the importance of creating safe spaces for women to feel seen and heard. This episode is a reminder that true impact begins with empathy — and that growth often lives on the other side of discomfort. The Women of Aurora Podcast is produced & edited by Amy Downinghttps://friendsover50.com

  3. 05/11/2025

    Building Second Chances: Bridget Flanigan on Creating a Recovery High School in Aurora

    In this inspiring episode, co-hosts Marisol Perez and Meghan Cole Bailey talk with Bridget Flanigan, a longtime school social worker, counselor, and visionary founder behind Vantage Point High School, a proposed recovery high school for teens in the Fox Valley area. Bridget shares her journey from a compassionate middle schooler who wanted to help her peers, to a veteran educator leading a movement for second chances. She opens up about how recovery schools offer both healing and education—creating spaces where students in recovery can rebuild their confidence, learn alongside peers on similar journeys, and prepare for brighter futures. Their conversation highlights the urgent need for youth recovery programs in Illinois and how local collaboration and courage can turn an idea into action.

  4. 17/07/2025

    Beyond the Clothes: Stylist Jodi Doyle on Confidence, Connection, and Personal Style

    In this episode of Women of Aurora, Marisol Perez talks with Jodi Doyle, a sustainable transformational stylist and founder of UpLevel Redesign. Jodi opens up about her journey from creative burnout to discovering her calling of helping women reconnect with themselves through intentional style. If you’ve ever stood in front of a full closet thinking you have “nothing to wear,” this episode is for you. Jodi shares how personal style goes far beyond trends and fashion—it’s about self-worth, energy, and identity. You’ll learn what a Wardrobe Wake-Up looks like, why thrifting is powerful (and planet-friendly), and how releasing old clothes can release emotional baggage too. We also talk about: Why confidence starts in your closetHow fast fashion fuels overwhelm and what to do insteadCreating a wardrobe that fits your life and your future selfThe emotional and energetic weight of clothes we’ve outgrownHow to dress like you—no matter your age, stage, or size Jodi’s approach is equal parts stylist, coach, and closet therapist. Whether you’re craving a fresh start or just tired of the “nothing to wear” cycle, her wisdom will leave you feeling seen, empowered, and ready to make your wardrobe work for you. Resources + Links:Connect with Jodi on Instagram: @uplevelredesignLearn more at: uplevelredesign.com About Women of Aurora: Women of Aurora is a group of purpose-driven women coming together to network, support, and uplift each other. Membership is open to women living and working in Aurora and the surrounding communities. Join the Women of Aurora Facebook Group here. Connect with host Cynthia Gamboa Morales on LinkedIN Connect with co-host Marisol Perez on LinkedIN Connect with producer Amy Downing through her lifestyle blog, Friends Over 50 — a space for women in midlife exploring reinvention, tech, and inspired living.

    Beyond the Clothes: Stylist Jodi Doyle on Confidence, Connection, and Personal Style

  5. 18/05/2025

    From Foster Care to CEO: Meighan Bailey on Purpose-Driven Business and Building Legacy

    In this episode of Women of Aurora, host Cynthia Gamboa and co-host Marisol Perez sit down with the remarkable Meighan Cole Bailey, a serial entrepreneur, certified coach, and community leader whose journey from foster care to CEO is nothing short of inspiring. Meighan shares how a personal family crisis sparked the creation of her first business, Connections Mobile, a non-emergency medical transportation company. She opens up about the heart behind her work, how she's grown her team and impact over 16+ years, and how loss became a catalyst for deeper purpose. We dive into: How Megan launched her first business without an LLC and what happened next Her mission-driven approach to elder care and transportation The story behind Mama’s Kitchen, her family-run food truck with a powerful legacy Coaching women impacted by the justice system and creating real career paths Her upcoming book From Foster Care to CEO and what that title truly means The mindset shift that comes from learning to delegate and ask for help Plus, Meighan recommends two favorite books for women entrepreneurs and shares how she stays grounded, focused, and connected Resources & Mentions: ConnectionsMobile.com. Email: OperationDriveNFP@gmail.com Books Mentioned: – Secrets of Six-Figure Women by Barbara Stanny – Let Them by Mel Robbins – The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fck* by Mark Manson  Stay connected with Women of Aurora: Join our Facebook group @WomenofAurora Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, and leave a review if you loved the episode to help other women find our community. About Women of Aurora: Women of Aurora is a group of purpose-driven women coming together to network, support, and uplift each other. Membership is open to women living and working in Aurora and the surrounding communities. Join the Women of Aurora Facebook Group here. Connect with host Cynthia Gamboa Morales on LinkedIN Connect with co-host Marisol Perez on LinkedIN Connect with producer Amy Downing through her lifestyle blog, Friends Over 50 — a space for women in midlife exploring reinvention, tech, and inspired living.

    From Foster Care to CEO: Meighan Bailey on Purpose-Driven Business and Building Legacy

  6. 18/03/2025

    Meet our Founder: The Story Behind Women of Aurora

    Episode Summary Welcome back to Women of Aurora! Season 2 kicks off with a deep dive into the journey of Women of Aurora, featuring founder Cynthia Gamboa. She shares her entrepreneurial path, the inspiration behind the community, and what’s in store for the future. Co-host Marisol Perez joins the conversation to discuss empowerment, networking, and the impact of building a supportive space for women in business. Timestamps & Key Topics[00:00:00] - Introduction Welcome back to Women of Aurora podcast!Meet your hosts, Cynthia Gamboa and Marisol Perez.A look ahead at Season 2.[00:01:00] - The Vision Behind Women of Aurora Cynthia shares her excitement about relaunching the podcast.The journey of Women of Aurora and its impact on the community.[00:02:00] - Who is Cynthia Gamboa? Entrepreneurial journey: From HR to business owner.Founding Cammi Photo Booth and leaving the corporate world.Transitioning careers and embracing entrepreneurship.[00:05:00] - Turning Passion into Purpose How a childhood love of photography evolved into a thriving business.Overcoming limiting beliefs about creative careers.The creation of Cups Bra Drive in honor of Cynthia’s late mother.[00:08:00] - Navigating Business Challenges During the Pandemic The impact of COVID-19 on event-based businesses.Pivoting into Pop of Love, a balloon decor company born from a simple idea.The importance of visual connection during difficult times.[00:12:00] - Talent Acquisition & Business Growth Cynthia’s background in HR and headhunting.Lessons learned from recruiting for top businesses.Building confidence in career transitions.[00:15:00] - Women of Aurora: Building a Community The inspiration behind Women of Aurora.Creating a space where women empower each other without expectations.The power of networking and business collaborations.[00:18:00] - How Women of Aurora Has Evolved From an online community to in-person networking lunches.The importance of intentional connections and support.Success stories of women who built businesses and partnerships through the group.[00:22:00] - Upcoming Events & Speakers The lineup of guest speakers for the next few months.Topics include quantum leaping sales, networking strategies, and community outreach.Exciting plans for a book series and a beauty panel.[00:28:00] - Join Women of Aurora! Events take place every second Thursday of the month from 11 AM - 1 PM at Society 57 in Aurora.Open to all women and individuals who identify as female.[00:30:00] - How Women of Aurora Has Personally Impacted Cynthia The power of authentic connections.How the community has helped her grow both personally and professionally.[00:33:00] - Closing Thoughts & Final Takeaways About Women of Aurora: Women of Aurora is a group of purpose-driven women coming together to network, support, and uplift each other. Membership is open to women living and working in Aurora and the surrounding communities. Join the Women of Aurora Facebook Group here. Connect with host Cynthia Gamboa Morales on LinkedIN Connect with co-host Marisol Perez on LinkedIN Connect with producer Amy Downing through her lifestyle blog, Friends Over 50 — a space for women in midlife exploring reinvention, tech, and inspired living.

    Meet our Founder: The Story Behind Women of Aurora

  7. 13/11/2023

    Taking Intentional Action with Tammy Helfrich

    On this episode of Women of Aurora, our host Cyndi Gamboa interviews Tammy Helfrich, an Intuitive Life Coach, host of the Intentional Life podcast, and author of the book Unapologetic. Learn how Tammy’s career as a life coach has evolved as she leans into her gifts to help others choose to live as their authentic selves. Tammy is passionate about helping women remember how to trust their intuition so they can expand their unique gifts and live unapologetically. Tammy's book recommendations: Bird By Bird by Anne Lamott and all of the books by Brené Brown. Meet Tammy in person at the December 2023 networking lunch at Society 57, where she presents the hot topic of  'Breaking the Mold: Doing Business Your Way!' Learn how to discover your authentic self and stop apologizing so that you can lead intentionally. Get your ticket here.   You can connect with Tammy at www.tammyhelfrich.com. About Women of Aurora: Women of Aurora is a group of purpose-driven women coming together to network, support, and uplift each other. Membership is open to women living and working in Aurora and the surrounding communities. Join the Women of Aurora Facebook Group here. Connect with host Cynthia Gamboa Morales on LinkedIN Connect with co-host Marisol Perez on LinkedIN Connect with producer Amy Downing through her lifestyle blog, Friends Over 50 — a space for women in midlife exploring reinvention, tech, and inspired living.

    Taking Intentional Action with Tammy Helfrich

  8. 17/07/2023

    Travel Talk with Kimberly Simpson

    If you love the idea of traveling but get overwhelmed by trying to plan the perfect trip, help is here! Kimberly Simpson is an independent travel advisor and owner of Destinations-Design. She can plan a memorable vacation for individuals, families, and groups. Not only is Kimberly the go-to expert on cruises, but she can also help you grow your business by offering retreats. Travel is a second-act career for Kimberly, and she shares how she got started in this industry. Listen for some great travel advice and inspiration if you are looking for your next career pivot. Kimberly’s book recommendation is Relentless by Tim S. Grover. Connect with Kimberly: Facebook  Instagram  Facebook Group  for Cruising  Website Sports, Concert, & Event Tickets About Women of Aurora: Women of Aurora is a group of purpose-driven women coming together to network, support, and uplift each other. Membership is open to women living and working in Aurora and the surrounding communities. Join the Women of Aurora Facebook Group here. Connect with host Cynthia Gamboa Morales on LinkedIN Connect with co-host Marisol Perez on LinkedIN Connect with producer Amy Downing through her lifestyle blog, Friends Over 50 — a space for women in midlife exploring reinvention, tech, and inspired living.

    Travel Talk with Kimberly Simpson
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About

Women of Aurora is a dedicated group of women entrepreneurs and leaders working in and around the City of Aurora, Illinois. Our podcast features interviews with the remarkable women from our group, as we discuss how to be successful in business and in life.

Information

  • Creator
    Amy Downing
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    23
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Amy Downing
  • Show Website
    Women of Aurora