Courageously Speaking

Maria Soriano

By focusing on the theme of brave choices and highlighting inspiring stories of individuals who have made courageous decisions to achieve success beyond self, the Courageously Speaking Podcast aims to motivate and empower audiences worldwide to embrace bravery in their own lives, pursue their goals fearlessly, and make a positive impact on their communities and ultimately, the world.

  1. 5 FÉVR.

    Angry? The Boxing Ring Could be Your Next Therapy: Courageously Speaking w/ Pro Boxer Joana Nwamerue

    Before Joana Nwamerue became the first Bulgarian female professional boxer with a 7-0 record, she was a woman obsessed with a question: What do we do with the fire inside us? In this episode of the Courageously Speaking Podcast, we didn’t play nice. We went deep into the "Sweet Science" of boxing to show how raw, dangerous aggression can be transformed into elite discipline and mental clarity. Joana has proven this by developing a prison program in Bulgaria that turns life-altering rage into life-saving focus behind prison walls. Now, based in the fight capital of the world, Las Vegas, she shared her evolution to the woman she is now who is also struggling with the "Strong Woman’s Paradox." If you are a woman who leads, fights, and wins, why is it so hard to find a partner who can handle your power? We explore why high-impact women like Joana are searching for men who aren't intimidated by their strength, but are secure enough to love them because of it.In this episode, we discuss:- How Joana taught the most "aggressive" people in society to find peace through a punch- How her journey as the first female pro boxer in Bulgaria was no easy feat but led her to the United States of America- Why strong women need strong-secure men - How to stop apologizing for your intensity and start using it as your greatest assetThis Courageously Speaking Podcast episode is for the fighters, the leaders, and the "too much" crowd. Whether you're in the ring or the boardroom, it's time to stop shrinking.

    39 min
  2. Are You Too Ambitious? [Courageously Speaking with FinTech Exec Willayna Banner]

    06/03/2025

    Are You Too Ambitious? [Courageously Speaking with FinTech Exec Willayna Banner]

    In this episode of Courageously Speaking, we ask a bold question: Are you too ambitious? Maria Soriano and FinTech executive Willayna Banner dive into the realities of ambition — how it shapes our careers, identities, and personal lives. We explore the fine line between striving for success and the pressure to prove your worth, especially in high-pressure industries. Through our honest conversation, we discuss the challenges women face when balancing assertiveness with being perceived as aggressive and how decoupling self-worth from job titles can lead to true alignment. Willayna shares her experiences navigating imposter syndrome, the importance of a strong support system, and the courage it takes to embrace uncertainty. We reflect on the tension between company loyalty and personal growth and the journey of finding purpose through exploration. T his episode is an invitation to reflect on your own ambitions — when they serve you and when they might be holding you back. ABOUT OUR GUEST Willayna Banner, has over two decades of leadership experience spanning some of the world’s most influential organizations. She has served as the Senior Director and Global Head of Growth & Innovation for Retail, CPG, and Agriculture at Microsoft, where she drove cutting-edge solutions in Artificial Intelligence and cloud technology. Her other roles include leading Web3 and blockchain initiatives at Microsoft, serving on Morgan Stanley’s Investor Advisory Committee for the Next Level Fund, and holding senior executive and transformational positions at Wells Fargo, Bank of America, American Express, HBO and Morgan Stanley. Stay Courageous, Maria

    57 min

À propos

By focusing on the theme of brave choices and highlighting inspiring stories of individuals who have made courageous decisions to achieve success beyond self, the Courageously Speaking Podcast aims to motivate and empower audiences worldwide to embrace bravery in their own lives, pursue their goals fearlessly, and make a positive impact on their communities and ultimately, the world.