LET's Network: Empowering Women Entrepreneurs and Changemakers

Emily Harrington and Talia Hreljac
  • 0.0 (0)
  • Entrepreneurship

Welcome to LET's Network: The Podcast, your go-to space for women entrepreneurs, leaders, and changemakers to connect, learn, and grow. Each episode features inspiring conversations with local business owners, thought leaders, and community builders who share real stories, practical advice, and empowering insights. Whether you're launching a business, scaling your impact, or seeking authentic connection, this podcast is here to support your journey. Tune in to discover tools for success, build meaningful relationships, and amplify women’s voices in business and beyond.

  1. 2d ago

    Reclaiming Your Power: Women, Authenticity & Growth with Gucci Erasmus

    What does it mean to live as your whole, authentic self? In this episode of LET's Network The Podcast, we sit down with Gucci Erasmus, creator of the Hidden Gems® Method, to explore women's empowerment, identity, self-awareness, mental health, and personal transformation. Drawing on more than 30 years of experience leading people, change, and transformation in the corporate world, Gucci shares powerful insights on how women can reconnect with their inner wisdom, challenge limiting beliefs, and navigate life with greater confidence and purpose. Together, we discuss societal expectations, motherhood, child-free choices, resilience, leadership, and the importance of embracing every part of who you are. This conversation is an invitation to reclaim your voice, trust yourself, and uncover the hidden strengths that have been there all along. Why You Should Listen This episode is for women who are: Feeling stuck or searching for their next chapterNavigating personal or professional changeLooking to build confidence and self-trustInterested in personal growth and self-discoverySeeking a deeper understanding of resilience and mental wellnessReady to challenge societal expectations and live more authentically Key Takeaways Feeling stuck is often a sign of growth and transformation.Authenticity starts with self-awareness and self-acceptance.Women's lived experiences hold valuable wisdom and strength.Resilience includes both softness and strength.Self-leadership is the foundation of effective leadership.Confidence grows when we reconnect with our true identity.We can choose our own path instead of living by others' expectations.Joy comes from living in alignment with who we truly are. About Gucci Erasmus Gucci Erasmus is the creator of the Hidden Gems® Method and a passionate advocate for women's empowerment, self-leadership, and personal transformation. After three decades leading People Change and Transformation initiatives in the corporate world, Gucci discovered her greatest passion was supporting women as they pursued wholeness and embraced their full identities. Through coaching, facilitation, and lived experience, she developed the Hidden Gems® Method to help women uncover their innate wisdom, reclaim their voices, and create meaningful change through transformative conversations and circles. A mother and grandmother who has lived in three countries, Gucci brings a wealth of personal and professional experience to her work. Her mission is to help women access universal female wisdom and step confidently into their authentic selves. Connect with Gucci Erasmus Website: https://www.mygempower.com Hidden Gems® Method: https://www.guccierasmus.com/hidden-gems Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/guccierasmus Hidden Gems® Method Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hiddengemsmethod Connect with LET's Network LET's Network empowers entrepreneurs, professionals, and leaders through meaningful conversations, authentic connections, and opportunities for personal and professional growth.

    49 min

  2. Jun 22

    Travel More, Spend Less: Family Travel Hacks with Virginia Holst

    Want to travel more as a family without blowing your budget? In this episode of LET’s Network The Podcast, we sit down with Virginia Holst, founder of Wander Far Spend Less, to uncover smart, practical strategies for affordable family travel. With over 16 years as a family photographer and a mom of three, Virginia has helped millions of families discover that you don’t need a huge budget to create unforgettable travel experiences. From planning your first trip to navigating flights and finding budget-friendly accommodations, she shares honest insights and real-life tips to help you travel smarter. If you’ve ever wondered how to explore Europe with kids, save money on travel, or make trips more meaningful, this episode is for you. What You’ll Learn How to plan family vacations on a budgetThe biggest mistakes families make when travelingHow to balance structure and flexibility while traveling with kidsSimple ways to add cultural immersion without extra costHow travel helps kids become more confident and open-minded Key Takeaways Travel is about creating meaningful memories, not just sightseeingFamilies often overspend on accommodations and activitiesBudgeting ahead of time is the ultimate travel game-changerKids benefit deeply from travel—it makes them curious, adaptable, and fearless Connect with Virginia Holst Website: https://wanderfarspendless.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/wanderfarspendless/  Why You Should Listen If you’re a parent, entrepreneur, or busy professional dreaming of more travel without financial stress, this episode is your roadmap. Virginia’s approach feels like a great partnership—practical but inspiring—helping you build a travel life that fits your real budget, not a fantasy one. Let’s Connect Loved this episode? Share it with a friend who’s dreaming of their next adventure Follow LET’s Network for more conversations that help you build connections, grow your business, and design a life you love.

    52 min

  3. Jun 5

    From Trauma to Triumph: Darci Lang’s 90% Mindset

    What if shifting your focus by just 10% could transform your life, leadership style, and workplace culture? In this powerful and educational episode, motivational speaker and bestselling author Darci Lang shares her journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a leading voice in positivity, resilience, and personal growth. With over 30 years of experience, Darci introduces her transformative “Focus on the 90%” philosophy, helping listeners reframe their thinking, heal from past trauma, and lead with empathy and kindness. Whether you're an entrepreneur, leader, or someone on a personal growth journey, this conversation will empower you to take control of your mindset starting with the woman in the mirror. Key Takeaways Why focusing on the 90% positive can change your life and leadership How unresolved trauma impacts mindset and how to begin healing The connection between kind leadership and workplace culture Techniques to train your brain to focus on what is working Practical tools for self-awareness, self-love, and growth Topics We Cover Resilience and overcoming adversity Mental health and personal empowerment Positive leadership in the workplace Self-reflection and emotional intelligence Building a culture of gratitude and kindness About Darci Lang For over three decades, Darci Lang has inspired audiences to shift their mindset using her powerful “90% philosophy.” She teaches that we can either focus on the 90% of life we can control, the positive, or the 10% we cannot. Her bestselling book Focus on the 90%: One Simple Tool to Change the Way You View Your Life sparked a transformative four-book series designed to help individuals live, lead, and grow with intention. Darci is passionate about lifelong learning and empowering others to create ripple effects of positivity in their personal and professional lives. Connect with Darci Website https://darcilang.com/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/darcilang/ Resources and Books Lead the 90%: Kind Leadership Focus on the 90%: One Simple Tool to Change the Way You View Your Life Why You Should Listen This episode is a must listen if you are ready to break free from negative thought cycles, lead with authenticity and kindness, build a more positive workplace or life, and embrace a mindset rooted in growth and empowerment. LET’s Keep the Conversation Going If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend, leave a review, and follow LET’s Network The Podcast for more empowering conversations designed to help you grow your business, your mindset, and your community.

    53 min

  4. May 22

    Failing Forward, Owning Your Story and Building Authentic Connections with Jenn Hayward

    In this episode of LET’s Network The Podcast, Talia & Emily sit down with Jenn Hayward, comedian, speaker, consultant and upcoming author, to talk about failure, authenticity, entrepreneurship and meaningful connection. Jenn shares her journey of building and losing a million dollar business, and how those experiences shaped her perspective on success, resilience and living authentically. This conversation is a powerful reminder that business and life are not about perfection, but about honesty, growth and alignment. If you’ve ever felt stuck, burned out or unsure of your next step, this episode offers practical insight and encouragement to move forward with intention. Key Takeaways Redefining failure Failure is not the opposite of success. It is part of the process. The real skill is knowing when to pivot, scale back or walk away. Authenticity in real life Authenticity is not a polished brand. It is about showing up honestly in the moment you are in, even when it’s messy. Rethinking hustle culture Pushing harder is not always the answer. Building a business that supports your life is more sustainable than chasing constant growth. Networking with intention Strong connections come from conversation and curiosity, not transactions. People work with those they trust and relate to. Building a brand without losing yourself Sharing real experiences, including challenges, builds stronger connections than presenting a perfect image. Rebuilding after burnout Trusting yourself again takes time. Rest, reflection and realignment are essential to moving forward. Using humour as a tool Humour creates connection, perspective and resilience during difficult seasons. Notable Quotes “Authenticity is just being present in the moment you’re in.” “If every entrepreneur who failed walked around ashamed, we would all be ashamed.” “People care about your story, not your perfect life.” “Networking is about connection, not collecting business cards.” About Jenn Hayward Jenn Hayward is an Ottawa-based comedian, speaker, writer and consultant known for combining humour with honest storytelling. With over 30 years of experience in comedy and a background in entrepreneurship and community work, she helps organizations and individuals connect more meaningfully. She has performed across Canada and internationally, and is the author of the upcoming book So What, exploring reflection, responsibility and taking action. Book Launch Jenn’s new book So What is launching soon. You can learn more and grab your ticket here: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/so-what-book-launch-tickets-1988841748207?aff=oddtdtcreator Connect with Jenn Website www.jennhayward.com Facebook Jenn Hayward Instagram @the_jenn_hayward_show Subscribe Follow LET’s Network The Podcast for more conversations on entrepreneurship, connection and growth.

    51 min

  5. May 8

    From Star Trek to Mars: Dr. Tanya Harrison’s Journey in Space Science

    In this inspiring interview, Dr. Tanya Harrison, planetary scientist, science strategist, and one of the world’s leading voices on Mars, shares her journey from childhood curiosity about space to shaping the future of space exploration. Dr. Harrison reflects on growing up inspired by science fiction, navigating academia, shifting from engineering to planetary science, and becoming a professional expert on Mars. She speaks candidly about living with serious health challenges during graduate school, working on NASA missions, and stepping into leadership roles across industry and global space strategy. The conversation also highlights her deep commitment to diversity, mentorship, and access in STEM, along with her work inspiring young explorers through storytelling and children’s books. This episode is ideal for space enthusiasts, educators, parents, entrepreneurs, and anyone passionate about science, leadership, and expanding opportunity in STEM. What You Will Learn in This Episode How childhood curiosity and early role models shaped Dr. Harrison’s pathWhy she transitioned from engineering to planetary scienceWhat Mars gullies reveal about the planet’s climate historyHow she navigated a male dominated STEM environmentHow she persisted through chronic health challenges during her PhDWhat it was like working on NASA Mars missionsWhy international collaboration and commercialization are shaping the future of spaceHow her children’s book Me and the Martians helps inspire the next generationWhy mentorship and access create ripple effects across communities Key Topics Discussed Early fascination with space and science fictionAcademic training and discovering planetary scienceMars research, gullies, and climate historyHealth challenges and resilience during graduate studiesLeadership and strategy in the space sectorThe rise of commercial and international space effortsDiversity, equity, mentorship, and access in STEMWriting for children and inspiring curiosityThe evolving future of space exploration Connect with Dr. Harrison: https://www.tanyaharrison.com/ https://www.instagram.com/tanyaofmars

    49 min

  6. Apr 24

    From Foster Care to Community Advocate: Courtney Vezina’s Journey

    In this educational and deeply personal episode of LET’s Network The Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Courtney Vezina, Doctor of Counselling and Psychotherapy, foster mother, entrepreneur, and community advocate. Courtney shares her lived experience within the foster care system and how those early experiences shaped her path toward trauma informed, attachment focused therapy. Together, we explore the realities of foster care, the role of early connection in lifelong mental health, and how trauma shows up across childhood, parenting, and professional life. Courtney also discusses balancing motherhood with business ownership, building a community centered mental health practice, and advocating for foster, adoptive, and mental health communities. This episode is especially valuable for mental health professionals, foster or adoptive parents, entrepreneurs in helping professions, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of trauma, attachment, and resilience. Guest Spotlight: Dr. Courtney VezinaDr. Courtney Vezina is the Owner and Clinical Director of Courtney James Counselling and Psychotherapy, a group private practice with locations in Kemptville, Brockville, and coming soon to Winchester, Ontario. Courtney is also a speaker and writer specializing in developmental trauma, attachment, and trauma informed care, with a strong focus on supporting the foster care and adoption community. As a wife, mother, and foster mother, Courtney brings her whole self to her work, grounded in the belief that relationships matter, families shape us, and healing often happens through connection and community. Key Topics CoveredThe foster care system and its personal and long term impactTrauma informed and attachment focused therapyEmotional regulation, resilience, and mental health across the lifespanBalancing motherhood with professional growthEntrepreneurship and leadership in mental health servicesCommunity support, advocacy, and awarenessSupporting foster and adoptive families Why This Episode MattersThis episode highlights the powerful connection between early experiences, mental health, and community care. Courtney’s story shows how lived experience and professional expertise can come together to support healing, advocacy, and meaningful change. If this conversation resonated with you, consider sharing the episode, leaving a review, or connecting with LET’s Network and Dr. Courtney Vezina on social media. Resources and Guest LinksCourtney James Therapy https://courtneyjamestherapy.com Courtney James Therapy on Instagram https://instagram.com/courtneyjamestherapy Dr. Courtney Vezina on Instagram https://instagram.com/drcourtneyvezina

    46 min

  7. Apr 10

    Rewriting the Midlife Health Narrative with Karen Yaworsky

    In this episode of LET’s Network the Podcast, we are joined by Karen Yaworsky, founder of the Chaos to Calm Method™, for an honest and empowering conversation about women’s health in midlife. Karen shares why so many women over 40 feel exhausted, inflamed, disconnected from their bodies, and frustrated that what used to work no longer does. Drawing on more than two decades in the wellness industry and her own journey through burnout, hormonal shifts, and major life transitions, Karen explains why midlife is not a breakdown but an invitation to reconnect, realign, and reclaim your power. This episode is for women who are done powering through and ready to work with their bodies instead of against them. What We Cover in This Episode• Why midlife symptoms like fatigue, anxiety, belly weight, mood swings, digestive issues, and low energy are signals, not failures • What perimenopause really is, why it can begin years before menopause, and how fluctuating hormones impact both physical and emotional health • The role of chronic stress and cortisol in hormonal chaos, inflammation, blood sugar regulation, and weight gain • Why restriction, over exercising, and pushing harder stop working in midlife • How gut health impacts hormones, energy, mood, confidence, immunity, and sleep • Why hormonal weight gain is a symptom and what is actually driving it • Why painful periods are common but not normal and how symptoms are information from the body • Karen’s signature Chaos to Calm Method™ and how it blends nutrition, nervous system regulation, movement, and mindset to create sustainable change • Simple daily habits that support hormone health without overwhelm • A candid conversation about rapid weight loss solutions and why caution is critical for women’s long term health Key Takeaways• Your body is not broken, it is communicating • Midlife requires a different level of care rooted in compassion and regulation • Chronic stress is one of the biggest drivers of hormonal imbalance • Sustainable health comes from nourishment, not restriction • Working with your body leads to lasting confidence and energy About Karen YaworskyKaren Yaworsky is a women’s health practitioner, coach, and educator, and the founder of The Chaos to Calm Method™. She specializes in helping women over 40 feel strong, energized, and confident in their bodies again. Through her holistic approach blending nutrition, nervous system regulation, movement, and mindset, Karen empowers women to reclaim their health and navigate midlife with clarity and confidence. Connect with Karen on Instagram at @yaworsky_wellness and learn more or book a consultation at www.chaostocalmmethod.com.

    52 min

  8. Mar 27

    Bringing Magic to Life with The Fairytale Loft

    In this episode of LET’s Network the Podcast, Emily and Talia are joined by Alex, founder of The Fairytale Loft and a yoga teacher, for an inspiring conversation about creativity, courage, and building meaningful experiences that help people feel truly seen. With a degree in Tourism Management and a deep passion for bringing people together, Alex shares the winding and magical path that led her to entrepreneurship. Inspired by her time working in Fantasyland at Walt Disney World, and fueled by a lifelong love of music, storytelling, and performance, Alex created The Fairytale Loft to bring Disney-style magic to communities across Southeastern Ontario through immersive character experiences, events, and celebrations. Alex opens up about a pivotal moment in her journey: undergoing vocal cord surgery in 2012, an experience that challenged her identity as a performer and ultimately helped her rediscover her voice—stronger, braver, and more magical than ever. That rediscovery plays a powerful role in both sides of her work: from singing and performing in character, to guiding yoga students to connect with their inner voice. Throughout the conversation, Alex takes listeners behind the curtain of The Fairytale Loft, revealing the intentional business strategies that uphold the magic. From Disney‑inspired training standards and staying fully in character at events, to building her business during the pandemic through networking, websites, SEO, and fearless DM outreach, Alex shows how creativity and professionalism go hand in hand. The episode also explores the connection between Alex’s life as a performer and her work as a yoga teacher. Through yoga, she helps students connect with their strength, calm, and presence—skills that deeply inform her leadership style, performer training, and philosophy that every interaction should help someone feel acknowledged and safe. Whether she’s engaging a child meeting their favourite princess or leading a yoga class, Alex’s guiding principle is the same: connection first. Listeners will come away inspired by Alex’s honesty about entrepreneurship, her reflections on age, confidence, intuition, and success, and her commitment to building a business that honours both imagination and sustainability. At its heart, The Fairytale Loft’s mission is simple and powerful: to help every child—and child‑at‑heart—feel seen. 🎧 In this episode, we explore: Turning a childhood dream into a values‑driven businessRecovering your voice—literally and figurativelyBuilding community through storytelling and experience designBalancing creativity, wellness, and entrepreneurshipWhy magic works best when it’s backed by intention and strategy Want to learn more about Alex and The Fairytale Loft? Connect with them at https://www.thefairytaleloft.ca/ or follow along on Instagram and Facebook

    44 min
See All (33)

About

Welcome to LET's Network: The Podcast, your go-to space for women entrepreneurs, leaders, and changemakers to connect, learn, and grow. Each episode features inspiring conversations with local business owners, thought leaders, and community builders who share real stories, practical advice, and empowering insights. Whether you're launching a business, scaling your impact, or seeking authentic connection, this podcast is here to support your journey. Tune in to discover tools for success, build meaningful relationships, and amplify women’s voices in business and beyond.

Information