Women of Inspiration™ Podcast

Monica Kretschmer
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Welcome to the Women of Inspiration Podcast, hosted by Monica Kretschmer, Founder and CEO, Universal Womens Network™, Women of Inspiration™ Awards and SupportHER. Listen as we speak with founders, CEO's, influential leaders in entertainment, media, business, art, sport and more! Listen to stories that are real, raw, and authentic. Learn from women who have pushed through challenges, overcome barriers and ignore the naysayers. Visit: https://universalwomensnetwork.com/ Subscribe to Listen Weekly

  1. 12/19/2025

    Women of Inspiration™ Podcast - EP 145 - Danette Beck

    The Women of Inspiration™ Podcast, hosted by Monica Kretschmer, Founder & CEO of the Universal Womens Network™, shines a spotlight on trailblazing female CEOs, executives, entrepreneurs, change-makers, and visionaries making an impact locally, nationally, and globally who lead, inspire and motivate. Today, we are honoured to celebrate Danette Beck, a 2025 Women of Inspiration™ Award recipient and a highly respected Senior Executive Leader in the U.S. insurance and construction risk industry. Known for her authentic leadership, strategic insight, and her trailblazing impact in a traditionally male-dominated field, Danette has carved out a remarkable career defined by integrity, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to elevating others. Raised in Marietta, Georgia as an identical twin, Danette learned early what it meant to challenge expectations. From earning her spot on the Spirit of Atlanta Drumline, to leading within Delta Gamma, to watching her mother serve as CEO of their family’s Tupperware franchise in the 1980s — her foundation was built on discipline, courage, and possibility. She went on to become the youngest — and first female — National Construction Practice Leader at a major U.S. insurance brokerage and continues to shape the industry through her leadership today. Danette, welcome to the show. We are thrilled to honour your story, your leadership, and the legacy you’re building for future generations. Get ready to be inspired. Learn More & Connect  ⁠⁠⁠universalwomensnetwork.com⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: @UWomensNetwork | @WomenofInspirationAwards Women of Inspiration™ is a registered trademark in the USA and Canada.

    1h 1m

  2. 12/12/2025

    Women of Inspiration™ Podcast - EP 144 - Vivian Meraki - Unshakable Parenting

    The Women of Inspiration™ Podcast, hosted by Monica Kretschmer, Founder & CEO of the Universal Womens Network™, shines a spotlight on trailblazing female CEOs, executives, entrepreneurs, change-makers, and visionaries making an impact locally, nationally, and globally who lead, inspire and motivate.Today, we welcome an empowering woman — Vivian Meraki, Founder of Unshakable Parenting and a 2025 Women of Inspiration™ Health and Wellness Award recipient. Vivian Meraki is a nationally recognized parent-child relationship expert, bestselling author, and award-winning speaker whose work blends science, heart, and lived experience. She is a go-to parenting expert for media, frequently featured on CTV Your Morning, Breakfast Television, and CP24, where she shares insights for busy parents on emotional safety, resilience, and connection. As the bestselling author of Parenting Through Divorce: The Three Keys to Building Unshakable Bonds with Your Children, Vivian’s work has been described by readers as “a lifeline” and “a warm hug in book form.” Therapists have recommended her book to clients for its practical, compassionate approach to healing and repairing their clients’ relationships with themselves and their children during times of transition. Before founding her Unshakable Parenting, Vivian spent more than two decades as a senior leader leading high-performing teams, working with Fortune 500 companies, agencies, consultancies, and startups, as well as working in frontline healthcare. That experience—combined with her expertise in communication, leadership, and somatic coaching—shapes her distinctive approach: blending emotional intelligence, body-based awareness, and nervous system mastery to help parents and leaders thrive from the inside out. Today, Vivian brings that diverse experience into her work with parents and leaders, teaching how to regulate the nervous system to improve connection and building bonds that last. Her trauma-informed methodology and her Connection Keys Framework has become the foundation for her coaching, writing, and her speaking. An award-winning international keynote speaker, Vivian has shared stages with global leaders and changemakers, guiding audiences to lead, parent, and live from presence rather than performance. Vivian, welcome to the show. We are thrilled to honour your journey and the impact you’re making in homes across North America. Get ready to be inspired. Learn More & Connect Connect with Vivian | Order Books:unshakableparenting.com | LI| IG @vivianmeraki  ⁠⁠universalwomensnetwork.com⁠⁠ Instagram: @UWomensNetwork | @WomenofInspirationAwards Women of Inspiration™ is a registered trademark in the USA and Canada.

    1h 5m

  3. 12/01/2025

    Women of Inspiration™ Podcast - EP 143 - Kristine Anoska

    The Women of Inspiration™ Podcast, hosted by Monica Kretschmer, Founder & CEO of the Universal Womens Network™, shines a spotlight on trailblazing female CEOs, executives, entrepreneurs, change-makers, and visionaries making an impact locally, nationally, and globally. This episode, we welcome a woman whose global perspective, strategic influence, and deep expertise are shaping the future of technology and financial innovation. Kristine Anoska, 2025 Women of Inspiration™ Women in Tech Awardee is the Global Account Director at Amazon Web Services, where she accelerates AI-driven transformation for Canada’s leading financial institutions — across personal banking, wealth management, capital markets, and insurance.She is also the 2025 Women of Inspiration™ Women in Tech Award recipient. And today marks a defining milestone: For the first time, Kristine is stepping into the public spotlight to share her story. Her journey spans five countries and over 40 visited — from growing up in post-Soviet Latvia, to earning a prestigious Queen Elizabeth Diamond Jubilee Scholarship in England, to launching her career at Bloomberg in London, to navigating global markets and high-pressure environments across North America and Russia. Kristine believes that the one thing AI will never automate is human relationships — and her career is living proof of that philosophy. This is her moment to step forward publicly as a woman of power, a global thinker, and a leader at the forefront of the generative AI revolution. Kristine, welcome to the Women of Inspiration™ Podcast.” Get ready to be inspired. Learn More & Connect  ⁠universalwomensnetwork.com⁠ Instagram: @UWomensNetwork | @WomenofInspirationAwardsWomen of Inspiration™ is a registered trademark in the USA and Canada.

    1h 1m

  4. 11/21/2025

    Women of Inspiration™ Podcast - EP 142 - Dianna Fioravanti

    The Women of Inspiration™ Podcast, hosted by Monica Kretschmer, Founder & CEO of the Universal Womens Network™, shines a spotlight on trailblazing female CEOs, executives, entrepreneurs, change-makers, and visionaries making an impact locally, nationally, and globally. This episode, we welcome a truly remarkable woman: Dianna Fioravanti — 2025 Women of Inspiration™ Woman of Power Awardee Dianna is the first female President of Kuehne+Nagel Canada, leading more than 2,500 logistics professionals across the country. Under her transformative leadership, female representation on the executive team has risen from 15% to 50%, positioning Kuehne+Nagel Canada as a Great Place to Work, Most Trusted Executive Team, and Best Workplace Led by Women. A trailblazer in a historically male-dominated industry, Dianna has redefined what leadership looks like—anchored in courage, authenticity, and a deep commitment to lifting others as she rises. She is also the author of the upcoming book Flip the Switch – From Playing It Safe to Crushing It, where she opens up about stepping into her power, reclaiming boldness, and inspiring others to unleash their full potential. Dianna embodies what it means to be a Woman of Inspiration™—leading with heart, challenging the status quo, and reminding us that “the greatest unfinished project is you.” Get ready to be inspired. Learn More About Dianna - @DiannaFiorvanti Learn More & Connect  universalwomensnetwork.com Instagram: @UWomensNetwork | @WomenofInspirationAwardsWomen of Inspiration™ is a registered trademark in the USA and Canada.

    46 min

  5. 11/04/2025

    Women of Inspiration™ Podcast - EP 141 - Brenda Andress

    The Women of Inspiration™ Podcast with host Monica Kretschmer, Founder & CEO of the Universal Womens Network™, shines the spotlight on inspiring female CEOs, executives, entrepreneurs, change-makers, and visionaries making an impact locally, nationally, and globally who lead, inspire and motivate. Today’s episode is an extraordinary leader who has redefined the game for women in sport — Brenda Andress, 2025 Women of Inspiration™ Women in Sport Awardee and Founder and CEO, SheIS Sports App Brenda is a trailblazer — the inaugural Commissioner of the Canadian Women’s Hockey League, and the visionary behind SheIS, the first cross-sport initiative uniting professional leagues to elevate women in sport through storytelling and collective action. In this episode, we go beyond the highlight reel to talk about:  The gut feeling Brenda had as a young girl that she was meant to change the game for girls everywhere. What it felt like being the only woman in the room — and how she turned discomfort into courage and change. How SheIS is inspiring a movement to unite women in sport with a platform to tell the stories of women in sport.  Engaging our SupportHERs to be part of the conversation And the legacy Brenda wants to leave for the next generation of girls who dream of stepping onto the world stage. Brenda’s story reminds us that it’s not a moment — it’s a movement. It’s about creating space, breaking barriers, and championing every woman who dares to lead. Have a listen, follow, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it. Together, we can help amplify the voices of women in sport and leadership — and inspire others to become part of the movement. Get ready to be inspired! Connect with Brenda: https://sheissportsapp.com/  Learn More & Connect:  www.universalwomensnetwork.com  Instagram: @UWomensNetwork | @WomenofInspirationAwards  Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & all streaming platforms. Subscribe for more inspiring interviews

    51 min

  6. 10/24/2025

    Women of Inspiration™ Podcast - EP 140 - Honorable Judge Rosemarie Aquilina

    The Women of Inspiration™ Podcast with host Monica Kretschmer, Founder & CEO of the Universal Womens Network™, shines the spotlight on inspiring female CEOs, executives, entrepreneurs, change-makers, and visionaries making an impact locally, nationally, and globally who lead, inspire and motivate. Today’s guest is The Honorable Judge Rosemarie Aquilina, 2025 Women of Inspiration™ Legacy Awardee — an active Michigan Circuit Court Judge serving on the 30th Judicial Circuit Court in Ingham County, and one of a small number of female judges in the United States who have made history from the bench. Judge Aquilina is a woman whose name is synonymous with courage and justice. She gained international recognition for her landmark sentencing of Larry Nassar, where she gave a voice to hundreds of women who had been silenced for far too long. Her words — “I just signed your death warrant” — echoed around the world and became a defining moment in the fight for accountability, advocacy, and women’s empowerment. Beyond the headlines, Judge Aquilina is a single mother, author, advocate, and mentor whose leadership continues to inspire women in law and beyond. Her new book, Speak Up, is a rallying cry for women to find their voice, claim their power, and own their success. This episode is personal. When I met Judge Aquilina a year ago, our conversation was raw and real. When I shared my own story — 22 days of trial and over 4,800 hours of litigation — she was stunned, but deeply understanding. As a judge who once practiced and presided over Family Law, she knows firsthand how the system impacts women and families. We both agreed — we need more female voices on the bench, especially in cases that require empathy, lived experience, and emotional intelligence. Today, we’ll dive into her remarkable career, the lasting impact of her sentencing in the Nassar case, her advocacy for women’s confidence and truth, and her perspective on why representation in justice — particularly in family law — should be a requirement, not an exception. Get ready to be inspired! Learn more and order Speak Up: https://www.inghambar.org/member/raquilinaingham-org/ Learn More & Connect 🌐 universalwomensnetwork.com 📸 IG:@UWomensNetwork | @WomenofInspirationAwards   🎙 Spotify, Apple Podcasts & all platforms 📺 Subscribe for more inspiring interviews Women of Inspiration™ is a registered trademarkin the USA and Canada Chapters - Jump to the Spot Judge Aquilina's Inspiring Path to Law and Judiciary 00:00:00 Overcoming Challenges as a Woman in the Judiciary 00:07:53 Giving Voice to the Silenced in the Nassar Case 00:12:16 Why Lived Experience Matters in Family Law 00:20:17 Judge Aquilina's Book: Find Your Voice, Claim Your Power 00:27:53 Building Support Systems and Inspiring Future Leaders 037:30

    50 min

  7. 09/23/2025

    Women of Inspiration™ Podcast - EP 146 - Michelle Fine-Smith

    The Women of Inspiration™ Podcast with host Monica Kretschmer, Founder & CEO of the Universal Womens Network™, shines the spotlight on inspiring female CEOs, executives, entrepreneurs, change-makers, and visionaries making an impact locally, nationally, and globally who lead, inspire and motivate. Today’s guest is Michelle Fine-Smith, 2025 Women of Inspiration™ Women in Media Awardee and Senior Vice President of Global Consumer Partnerships at Variety, one of the most iconic and influential brands in entertainment media. With the largest entertainment news-gathering team in the world, Variety is the industry’s link between every showbiz center across the globe, representing 84 countries. Michelle oversees partnerships across digital, social, print, and live events, leading innovative campaigns for some of the world’s most powerful brands — including Google, Chanel, Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, Delta, and United Airlines. With a career spanning Forbes, Billboard, and Variety, she has spent over two decades shaping the connection between media, culture, and commerce. This is also an incredibly exciting time for women in entertainment. From Taylor Swift redefining the music economy, to Jamie Lee Curtis, Jodie Foster, and Scarlett Johansson stepping behind the lens as directors and producers — women are influencing culture, reshaping the economy, and shifting the power dynamic. While progress has been made, there is still much to do to see women consistently in positions of power. Michelle joins us today to share her journey, her perspective on the trends and innovations reshaping global entertainment, and why celebrating women in leadership and media is not only essential — it’s the future. Get ready to be inspired! Chapters: Michelle's Path and Variety's Media Transformation 00:02:34 How to Break Into Entertainment Media 00:05:06 Overcoming Barriers and Finding Your Voice 00:07:51 Celebrating Impactful Women Through Variety's Platform 00:10:16 The Importance of Authentic Brand Partnerships 00:12:30 How Women Are Influencing Culture and Economy 00:15:06 Navigating Work-Life Balance During the Pandemic 00:18:02 The Women Who Inspire Michelle Fine-Smith 00:20:31 Why Listening is Key to Authentic Leadership 00:24:01 The Role of Support and Persistence in Career 00:26:00 Why Women Must Celebrate Their Achievements 00:30:01 From Trade to Mass Audience: Variety's Milestones 00:34:37 Michelle's Definition and Career Advice for All 00:38:35 Favorite Books, Red Carpets, and Dream Interviews 00:43:35 Learn More: https://www.variety.com Connect with Michelle - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-fine-smith-419353  Learn More & Connect:  www.universalwomensnetwork.com  Instagram: @UWomensNetwork | Women of Inspiration™ is a registered trademark in the USA and Canada.

    47 min

  8. 08/28/2025

    Women of Inspiration™ Podcast - EP 138 - Vida Cornelious

    The Women of Inspiration™ Podcast with host Monica Kretschmer, Founder & CEO of the Universal Womens Network™, shines the spotlight on inspiring female CEOs, executives, entrepreneurs, change-makers, and visionaries making an impact locally, nationally, and globally. These are real, raw, and authentic stories from women who have pushed through challenges, overcome barriers, lead by example, and achieved success in business and in life.   Today’s guest on the Women of Inspiration™ Podcast is a creative powerhouse who has been shaping the way we connect with brands, ideas, and stories for over two decades. Vida Cornelious, 2025 Women of Inspiration™ Women in Media Awardee and the Senior Vice President, Creative for New York Times Advertising, where she leads T Brand Studio — the award-winning creative team that develops bespoke branded content infused with the unmatched storytelling of The New York Times.   Her career is a masterclass in cross-industry creative leadership, with experience spanning the world’s most respected publishers, global brands, and top advertising agencies. She has held leadership roles at The Walt Disney Company, DDB Chicago, and served as Chief Creative Officer at Fake Love and Hello Society, expanding T Brand’s reach and redefining brand experiences in the process.   Vida’s work has not only moved brands forward — it has deepened emotional connections with audiences, won international recognition from Cannes Lions to The Effies, and set new creative standards across industries. She is also a sought-after mentor, speaker, and thought leader who uses her platform to inspire the next generation of creative visionaries.   This is a conversation about creativity at the highest level, leading with purpose, the power of storytelling and putting women into the spotlight. Get ready to be inspired!   Learn more: @vida.c IG | LinkedIn - Vida Cornelious    Learn More & Connect:  www.universalwomensnetwork.com  Instagram: @UWomensNetwork | @WomenofInspirationAwards

    49 min
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Welcome to the Women of Inspiration Podcast, hosted by Monica Kretschmer, Founder and CEO, Universal Womens Network™, Women of Inspiration™ Awards and SupportHER. Listen as we speak with founders, CEO's, influential leaders in entertainment, media, business, art, sport and more! Listen to stories that are real, raw, and authentic. Learn from women who have pushed through challenges, overcome barriers and ignore the naysayers. Visit: https://universalwomensnetwork.com/ Subscribe to Listen Weekly

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