Girl, Take the Lead!

Yolanda Canny

Each week we explore Womanhood and Leadership with the goal to question the status quo and challenge our thinking so we celebrate every woman as a leader. Our episodes will interview leaders in the field, meet authors, explore books on the subject, hear inspiring stories, or talk with organizations leading the charge for women to lead. We’ll look at the different topics from different generational perspectives as my daughters, a Millennial and a Gen Z, will join me, a Boomer, from time to time. We hope to make you laugh and leave inspired as you hear our voices on this very important topic.

  1. 252. Rewriting Memories, Rekindling Connections with Amy Weinland-Daughters

    22小时前

    252. Rewriting Memories, Rekindling Connections with Amy Weinland-Daughters

    Welcome back to Girl, Take the Lead! — the podcast where we share real, raw, and remarkable stories that inspire us to lead with courage and heart. Today’s guest is Amy Weinland-Daughters — Gen X keynote speaker, satirist, and author of both fiction and nonfiction works that explore memory, connection, and the surprising power of handwritten letters. In this heartfelt conversation, Amy takes us on two remarkable journeys: ✨ Through her fictional book, You Cannot Mess This Up, where she time-travels back to 1978, revisits her 10-year-old self, and re-examines childhood memories through the wiser lens of adulthood. 💌 Through her nonfiction experience captured in Dear Dana, where a single supportive letter grew into 600 handwritten notes that transformed her relationships, her perspective, and her sense of connection across divides. This episode is about more than books or letters — it’s about memory, healing, and rediscovering the value of slowing down to connect with each other in meaningful ways. 00:00 – Welcome 01:20 – Meet Amy Weinland-Daughters: author, speaker, mom01:46 – Writing herself back to 1978 You Cannot Mess This Up03:14 – How memories shift, heal, and shape us07:37 – Honoring the fearless child within11:25 – Generational perspectives on change and rebellion17:56 – How 600 handwritten letters began with one old friend20:40 – The loss of Parker and continuing to write letters22:36 – Two years of modern-day pen pal exchange23:59 – Writing 580 letters: how it transformed Amy’s life25:55 – Reading a powerful excerpt from Dear Dana28:48 – How listeners can connect with Amy29:18 – Amy’s advice to her 20-something self Episode Takeaways Memories are malleable. Revisiting them with fresh eyes can bring healing and compassion for ourselves and others. Our real lives matter. Every story — even suburban childhoods or “ordinary” experiences — has profound value. Connection changes everything. A single handwritten note can make someone feel deeply seen and valued. Small gestures are powerful. Slowing down, writing, and caring intentionally can reshape relationships and even bridge divides. Amy reminded us how powerful handwritten notes can be. To make it easier for you to spread kindness, check out the Girl, Take the Lead! Heartfelt Cards & Gifts shop. Each card is designed to spark joy and connection — perfect for your own “Dear Dana” moments.  📬 Connect with Amy: dividesWebsite: www.amydaughters.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/smokinhotamys/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amyweinlanddaughtersauthor 📬 Connect with Yo: Instagram: @yocannyFB Group: Girl, Take the Lead!Online Store: https://girltaketheleadpod.com/shop

    35 分钟
  2. 251. Permission to Be You: Embracing Passion and Purpose

    9月11日

    251. Permission to Be You: Embracing Passion and Purpose

    Author, Boomer, and CEO of Purpose Linked Consulting, Alaina Love, is a nationally recognized leadership coach and purpose expert, helping people lead better lives for more than 20 years. Her book, Permission to Be You: Discover Your Purpose and Passions to Bring Your Best Self to Everything—and Everyone, just launched and reveals the power of passion-centered living to bring clarity and fulfillment to work, relationships, and life’s biggest transitions. Love was formerly a research scientist and executive director of global human resources at Merck & Co., Inc. She has served as a leadership columnist for Bloomberg Business Week, The Washington Post, Harvard Business Review, and SmartBrief. 💡 We explore: The concept of self-expansion in relationships and life Understanding your passions and bringing them into work and personal life Giving yourself permission to fail, choose yourself, and live authentically How younger generations navigate purpose, passion, and practical life challenges Practical ways to integrate passion-centered experiences into daily life 🔑 3 Big Takeaways: You can bring your authentic self to any situation, career, or relationship. Giving yourself permission to fail and to choose yourself is crucial for growth. Understanding and nurturing your passions fuels fulfillment and connection. 🛍️ Online Store Highlight: Check out our specially designed bookmark “Embrace the Journey”—perfect to accompany Permission to Be You or to remind you to honor your own journey: Girl, Take the Lead! Heartfelt Cards & Gifts 📬 Connect with Alaina: Website: www.permissiontobeyoubook.com Instagram: @alainalove LinkedIn: Alaina Love Facebook: Alaina Love 📬 Stay Connected With Your Host, Yo Website: girltaketheleadpod.com  Email: yo@yocanny.com Instagram: @yocanny  FB Group: Girl, Take the Lead!Online Store: Your Cards & Gifts for Connection

    46 分钟
  3. 250. Empowering The Next Generation Girls to Lead with Mary Jane Strom

    9月9日

    250. Empowering The Next Generation Girls to Lead with Mary Jane Strom

    Today’s guest is Mary Jane Strom, the CEO of Girl Scouts Northern California since April 2025. Mary Jane has over 20 years of experience in youth development, nonprofit leadership, and outdoor programming. She’s a lifetime Girl Scout member and a Gold Award recipient—the highest honor a Girl Scout can achieve. Mary Jane has been with Girl Scouts for decades, starting as a youth member, growing into a young adult staff member, and now leading the organization. She’s passionate about empowering girls to take the lead and creating opportunities that meet the needs of today’s youth. 💡 In this episode, we explore: How youth-led initiatives and task groups are transforming Girl Scouts. The importance of moving at the pace of today’s girls. Strategies to reduce barriers to participation and expand access to underserved communities. The role of supportive adult volunteers in fostering growth and leadership. The impact of outdoor programs, STEM opportunities, and entrepreneurship experiences. MJ’s advice to her 20-something self: take action, don’t wait for permission. ⏱ Timestamps & Highlights 11:45 – MJ explains youth-led initiatives and mentoring programs for girls. 12:15 – MJ reflects on her personal journey from Girl Scout to leader. 13:34 – Rethinking rules and letting girls take the lead in decisions. 14:32 – Pride in Girl Scout properties and camps, preparing girls for outdoor experiences. 15:27 – Expanding access through community programs and school partnerships. 16:23 – Introducing the “third space” concept: Girl Scouts alongside home and school. 17:22 – The importance of social connection, troop meetings, and sisterhood. 19:17 – The role of supportive adult volunteers in guiding girls’ leadership. 21:12 – STEM and entrepreneurship programs, including Space Cookies robotics and the cookie program. 24:26 – How to join, volunteer, or donate to Girl Scouts Northern California. 25:24 – MJ’s advice to her 20-something self: don’t wait to take action. 💬 Notable Quotes “We can’t afford to slow down. We have to keep moving forward. We have to keep progressing. We have to keep being what girls today need.” – MJ Strom “If something bugs you about the place that you’re working or volunteering, ask why it’s done that way and then make the change you want to see.” – MJ Strom “Girl Scouts is a sisterhood full of supportive adults and opportunities for girls to take the lead.” – MJ Strom 🔑 3 Big Takeaways Youth-Led Leadership Matters: Girls thrive when they’re empowered to make decisions and take ownership of programs. Volunteers Amplify Impact: Adult mentors provide guidance, encouragement, and real-world learning experiences. Opportunities for All Girls: From STEM to outdoor adventures and entrepreneurship, Girl Scouts creates multiple pathways for personal growth and leadership development. 🌐 Resources & Links Learn more about Girl Scouts Northern California: gsnorcal.org Volunteer or become a troop leader: Volunteer Opportunities Donate to support camperships and leadership programs: Spring Appeal & Opportunity Fund Watch MJ on Episode 7: Ep 7 with Mary Jane Strom Shop the Girl, Take the Lead! Heartfelt Cards & Gifts: Online Store 🛍️ Online Store Highlight Mary Jane chose the Girl Scouts-themed card: “Lead with heart. Inspire action.” Her reflection: “Leadership is about creating opportunities for others to shine—and that starts with our girls.” 📬 Connect With Mary Jane Website: https://www.girlscoutsnorcal.org Email: Contact via website 📬 Stay Connected With Your Host, Yo Website: girltaketheleadpod.com Email: yo@yocanny.com Instagram: @yocanny FB Group: Girl, Take the Lead! Online Store: Your Cards & Gifts for Connection – Shop Now

    32 分钟
  4. 249. Give Up to Grow – Overcoming Fear, Limiting Beliefs, and Taking Control with Lana Shepard

    9月3日

    249. Give Up to Grow – Overcoming Fear, Limiting Beliefs, and Taking Control with Lana Shepard

    Lana Shepard, Boomer, business coach, author, and financial literacy advocate, joins us to explore mindset shifts, transformational lessons, and practical strategies that fuel both personal and entrepreneurial growth. Drawing from her 40+ years of experience supporting over 1,300 small business clients, Lana shares how letting go of limiting beliefs, embracing fear, and leaning on support can ignite success and resilience. 💡 In this episode: Lana’s journey from bookkeeping and payroll to authoring the Give Up series The pivotal lesson from her mentor: success comes from what you give up, not what you hold on to Fear of failure and lifelong beliefs that shape our decisions Transformative experiences, including Tony Robbins’ fire walk Learning to ask for help and building supportive networks Embracing financial literacy and overcoming fear of numbers Practices to cultivate gratitude, courage, and momentum 🎧 Timestamps (Major Moments) 0:00 – Welcome and introduction to Lana Shepard1:30 – The Give Up book series and key lessons3:28 – Overcoming fear of failure and limiting beliefs8:59 – Stepping outside comfort zones: the fire walk 12:06 – The role of support systems and asking for help13:31 – Financial literacy: understanding numbers 16:45 – Practices to cultivate gratitude, courage, and momentum 💬 Memorable Quotes "Holy Hockey!" “Success is less about what you take on and more about what you give up.” “You can’t have fun until the work ends—and sometimes the work never ends, unless you let it.” “Once you take that first step, momentum carries you forward.” “Fear is often inherited from old beliefs—awareness is the first step to letting it go.” 🔑 3 Big Takeaways Awareness empowers action: Recognizing hidden beliefs and self-talk patterns is essential for growth. Courage is cultivated: Stepping out of your comfort zone builds confidence, momentum, and resilience. Asking for help is strength: Support systems accelerate success personally and professionally. 🛠️ Tools & Resources Mentioned Give Up Ignition by Lana Shepard (amazon.com) Tony Robbins’ Unleash the Power Within (UPW) fire walk experienceByron Katie Judge Your Neighbor Worksheet https://thework.com/resources/ 📬 Connect With Lana Website: www.giveupbook.com 📬 Stay Connected With Your Host, Yo Website: girltaketheleadpod.comEmail: yo@yocanny.comInstagram: @yocannyFB Group: Girl, Take the Lead!Online Store: https://girltaketheleadpod.com/shop

    38 分钟
  5. 248: When Pleasing Hurts: Healing the Mother-Daughter Dynamic

    8月27日

    248: When Pleasing Hurts: Healing the Mother-Daughter Dynamic

    Katherine Fabrizio, Boomer, psychotherapist with 35 years of experience, joins us to explore the often hidden dynamics between mothers and daughters. Drawing from her extensive clinical work and her book, Katherine dives into how good daughters navigate boundaries, individuation, and maternal expectations—and how understanding these patterns can unlock personal freedom. 💡 In this episode: Katherine’s journey from practicing alongside her mother to finding her own voice Why the “good daughter” role can feel both protective and paralyzing Differentiating narcissistic, borderline, and covert mothers in real-life dynamics Recognizing internalized guilt and patterns of approval-seeking Practical insights for reclaiming boundaries and autonomy ⏱️ Timestamps 0:00 – Welcome and introduction to Katherine 0:31 – Katherine’s early career and working with her mother 1:56 – Making the difficult choice to leave the shared practice 2:24 – Boundaries and individuation: why they weren’t taught 3:22 – The inspiration for writing her book 4:21 – Reconciling with her mother at the end of her life 5:17 – Understanding different maternal patterns 6:17 – Narcissistic, borderline, and covert mothers explained 11:08 – Reading the 10 scenarios of the “good daughter trap” 14:19 – How childhood patterns shape adult responses and shame 16:40 – Taking charge of your inner child 17:09 – Understanding the difficult mother 💬 Memorable Quotes “Staying would break me. Leaving broke her heart—but I survived. So did she.” “Boundaries weren’t even a thing back then; learning them was revolutionary.” “Many daughters carry guilt for differentiating. Understanding your mother’s patterns can be liberating.” “The good daughter cycle is like an accent—you internalize it and it becomes normal.” “Sometimes the kindest thing you can do for your mother is to step into your own life fully.” “Healing isn’t about erasing the past; it’s about reclaiming your power in the present.” “We often try to please to survive. Learning that you can exist authentically is life-changing.” “Mother-daughter patterns don’t define you—you define your response to them.” 🔑 3 Big Takeaways Awareness is freedom. Understanding the maternal dynamics you grew up with allows you to break generational patterns. Boundaries are essential. Differentiating from a mother—even a loving one—can be painful but necessary for personal growth. Healing is relational. Reconciling with the past, while not condoning harm, creates space for autonomy and self-compassion. 🛠️ Tools & Resources Mentioned The Good Daughter Trap by Katherine Fabrizio – available wherever books are sold Psychotherapy insights on boundaries, individuation, and mother-daughter dynamics 🛍️ Online Store Highlight Katherine chose a card representing self-empowerment and boundary-setting: "Know your worth, set your limits, honor your story." Check out our online store here! 📬 Connect With Katherine Website: Are you a "Good Daughter" Free Quiz https://daughtersrising.info/good-daughter-quiz/ Email: katherinefabrizio@daughtersrising.info https://www.facebook.com/thegooddaughter https://www.instagram.com/katherinefabrizio/ 📬 Stay Connected With Your Host, Yo Website: girltaketheleadpod.com Email: yo@yocanny.com Instagram: @yocanny FB Group: Girl, Take the Lead!

    45 分钟
  6. 247. Beyond the Budget: Leading Yourself to Money Freedom

    8月20日

    247. Beyond the Budget: Leading Yourself to Money Freedom

    Veronica Deraleau—financial coach, Army veteran, fintech leader, opera singer (!), and author of Making Money is Simple—joins us for an eye-opening conversation about money mindset, debt, and the courage to rewrite your financial story. Through personal experience and her signature ARIA money model, Veronica helps us shift from shame and confusion into clarity and intentionality around money. You’ll walk away inspired, empowered, and ready to take action—from a place of alignment. 💡 In this episode: What it means to be “money stuck” and how to break free The ARIA money model: Awaken, Reframe, Intention, Action Why mindset (not math!) is the first step toward financial freedom The surprising role opera played in Veronica’s money journey How cultural and family beliefs shape our money stories A fresh take on caregiving, values-based spending, and tough trade-offs The myth of “having it all” and the power of ruthless prioritization 🎧 Timestamps 0:00 – Welcome0:30 – Veronica’s story: MBA, debt, and transformation2:00 – What “money stuck” means and how shame keeps us trapped2:55 – Excerpt: What is money freedom?4:24 – The ARIA model explained5:20 – Why opera helped fuel Veronica’s financial freedom8:39 – How our “autopilot” thinking gets in the way10:37 – Generational shifts: Comparison, social media, and caregiving12:56 – Hidden spending triggers (especially for moms)14:19 – Teaching kids trade-offs and modeling values-based spending15:46 – Money lessons from high-net-worth individuals17:43 – Shame vs. creativity: What truly motivates change18:42 – Who the book resonates with—and why it surprised her20:34 – Couples, money, and mismatched financial engagement22:31 – Breaking inherited financial scripts 💬 Memorable Quotes “Debt will always be the abattoir of creative dreams.” – Elizabeth Gilbert (quoted by Veronica)“Money freedom starts when we change how we think—not just what we do.”“You can’t just budget your way out of shame. You have to reframe.”“Don’t pre-reject yourself. Even trying and failing is feedback.”“Your values—not guilt—should guide your financial decisions.” 🔑 3 Big Takeaways Mindset is the foundation of financial freedom. Veronica’s ARIA model guides us to awaken, reframe, set clear intentions, and take action—with purpose. We must unlearn inherited money beliefs. From immigrant households to societal norms, we all carry invisible scripts that shape how we view and handle money. Caregivers need to prioritize sustainability. Spending out of love can still lead to burnout and debt. Teaching children about trade-offs is a gift for their future. 🛠️ Tools & Resources Mentioned Making Money is Simple by Veronica Deraleau – available on Amazon Website: makingmoneyissimple.com Social: @makingmoneyissimple (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest) 🛍️ Online Store HighlightVeronica chose our “Trust Your Gut” snarky cat card. Wrapped in red threads and full of attitude, this card captures her message of courage and trusting your inner wisdom. 📬 Connect With VeronicaWebsite: makingmoneyissimple.comInstagram | Facebook | LinkedIn | Pinterest: @makingmoneyissimple 📬 Stay Connected With Your Host, YoWebsite: girltaketheleadpod.comEmail: yo@yocanny.comInstagram: @yocannyFB Group: Girl, Take the Lead!Online Store: girltaketheleadpod.com/shop

    32 分钟
  7. 246. Centering Energy, Claiming Power, Creating Legacy

    8月13日

    246. Centering Energy, Claiming Power, Creating Legacy

    Sylvia Rohde-Liebenau, executive coach, author, and global change agent, joins us to explore what it really means to lead with power in today’s chaotic world. Her book Who’s in Charge? is more than a leadership guide—it’s a call to consciousness. From energy and embodiment to legacy and self-awareness, Sylvia invites us to look inward before stepping outward. 💡 In this episode: The difference between transformational and transformative leadership How leaders can claim their power by embodying presence Why legacy starts with the choices we make daily A deeply personal story of writing her own obituary as a turning point How joy, art, and truth-telling are powerful leadership tools 🎧 Timestamps 0:00 – Welcome8:09 – Book overview: A guide for leaders in a chaotic world10:03 – Energy, Power, Legacy: The three core elements12:30 – Why energy management is foundational24:51 – Awareness, embodiment, and voice: The physicality of leadership27:00 – Joy in the process: Why embodiment brings freedom30:12 – Every action counts: Small-scale leadership still changes the world34:15 – Owning your voice even after past regrets36:10 – Humility as a powerful leadership trait 💬 Memorable Quotes “Choose your actions—because when they’re made in choice, they’ll make a difference.” “Joy comes when we embody who we truly are—not just function how we’ve been conditioned.” “Leadership isn’t about being at the top—it’s about being in integrity with yourself.” “You don’t need to be loud to be powerful. You need to be aligned.” “Spill your story—even if no one’s listening. It’s yours to tell.” “Follow your bliss. It’s the path to fulfillment and, ultimately, success.” 🔑 3 Big Takeaways 1. Power is presence. True leadership comes from managing your energy, owning your voice, and being fully embodied in the moment—not from titles or external control. 2. Every action builds legacy. Whether you’re a CEO or just starting out, how you respond to daily choices defines your leadership. You are shaping your legacy moment by moment. 3. Leadership is a practice—anchored in truth. Sylvia invites us to “spill our story” and follow our bliss, because when we lead from authenticity, we lead from power. 🛠️ Tools & Resources Mentioned Who’s in Charge? by Sylvia Rohde-Liebenau – available on Amazon SmartPowerMethod.com – Access Sylvia’s Power Scorecard LinkedIn: Sylvia Rohde-Liebenau 🛍️ Online Store HighlightSylvia chose the Frida Kahlo card: “Paint your story. Spill your truth.” Her reflection? “Dare to tell your story and your truth—even if no one’s listening.” 📬 Connect With Sylvia Website: https://smartpowermethod.com Email: sylvia@smartpowermethod.com 📬 Stay Connected With Your Host, Yo Website: girltaketheleadpod.com Email: yo@yocanny.com Instagram: @yocanny FB Group: Girl, Take the Lead! Online Store: Your Cards & Gifts for Connection

    32 分钟
  8. 245. “Leadership Begins with Me”: Nicole & Beth’s Intentional Leadership Playbook

    8月5日

    245. “Leadership Begins with Me”: Nicole & Beth’s Intentional Leadership Playbook

    Leadership isn’t just about guiding others—it starts with leading yourself. In this lively and insightful conversation, Beth Chapman Kaufmann and Nicole Santonastaso share how getting clear on who you are, what you do best, and where you’re headed can transform the way you lead. With plenty of laughs, relatable stories, and practical takeaways, Beth and Nicole dive into CliftonStrengths, True North Statements, and why reflection time is the secret ingredient for intentional leadership. Whether you’re leading a team, your family, or just yourself, this episode will inspire you to embrace your strengths and confidently chart your own course. 💛 What You’ll Hear in This Episode 0:00 Introduction3:17 Nancy Walton Laurie Chi Omega Intentional Leader Workshop takeaways8:56 Can you truly lead others when you cannot lead yourself? Modeling intentional leadership for others11:43 CliftonStrengths: how they make us unique and spark action29:00 Balcony and Basement clarity32:31 Human Design as a framework for thinking and problem-solving34:32 Creating your True North Statement47:16 Why reflection time is essential for self-leadership48:42 How to follow Nicole and Beth52:00 20-something advice for future leaders53:27 Online store card choices 💬 Memorable Quotes "Leadership begins with me – I have to do the work myself to move other people.”"To take time to think about who I am and where I want to go is an incredible gift to yourself and to those around you.”"When you have confidence in what you do best you don’t have to fear what other people do best.”"The True North Statement is a way to remind myself: this is who I am, this is why I’m here on this earth—and that helps me decide what to say 'yes' to.""Don’t be scared to fail…if it doesn’t work, maybe the hypothesis was wrong. We can try something different." 🔑 3 Key Takeaways Self-leadership comes first. You can’t lead others effectively until you know who you are and where you want to go. CliftonStrengths and True North give clarity. Tools like CliftonStrengths and a True North Statement help you build confidence in your unique strengths and guide your decisions. Reflection fuels growth. Taking time to pause, reflect, and ask tough questions is essential to becoming an intentional leader. 🌟 More About Nicole Santonastaso Nicole Santonastaso, Millennial, RDN, LD, IBCLC, CDCES, CD (DTI), is the Prevention Program Supervisor for Norton Sound Health Corporation in Nome, Alaska. Her passion lies in increasing food literacy, making movement enjoyable, and building community. She also serves on multiple healthcare committees, supporting team-based care and policy development. A dedicated volunteer for Chi Omega Fraternity, Nicole promotes collegiate women’s wellness through curriculum development and facilitation. She lives in Alaska with her husband and two cats, Edgar and Iris, and loves photography, cooking, and John Mayer concerts. 🌟 More About Beth Chapman Kaufmann Beth Chapman Kaufmann, Gen X, is the president of Vide Consulting (pronounced Vee-day), where she specializes in leadership development, CliftonStrengths coaching, and group facilitation. A Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach, Beth is known for her humor, insight, and powerful questions that inspire action. Originally from Kentucky, she now lives in Washington, DC with her husband and two kids. 📬 Connect with Nicole • Website: nicoledionphoto.com• Email: nsantona@gmail.com• Instagram: @nicoledionphotography• LinkedIn: Nicole Santonastaso 📬 Connect with Beth • Email: beth@videconsultinginc.com• LinkedIn: Beth Chapman Kaufmann 🎙️ Connect with Your Host, Yo • Website: girltaketheleadpod.com• Email: yo@yocanny.com• Instagram: @yocanny• Online Store: Cards & Gifts that spark connection• FB Group: Girl, Take the Lead!

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Each week we explore Womanhood and Leadership with the goal to question the status quo and challenge our thinking so we celebrate every woman as a leader. Our episodes will interview leaders in the field, meet authors, explore books on the subject, hear inspiring stories, or talk with organizations leading the charge for women to lead. We’ll look at the different topics from different generational perspectives as my daughters, a Millennial and a Gen Z, will join me, a Boomer, from time to time. We hope to make you laugh and leave inspired as you hear our voices on this very important topic.

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