Ivy League Sisters: High Achievers Get Real

Ivy League Sisters

Step into the world of high-achieving women who've walked the hallowed halls of the Ivy League, but aren't afraid to get real. In this podcast, we peel back the layers of perfection to reveal the authentic, sometimes messy, always inspiring stories of women who've been where you are. At Ivy League Sisters, we believe in the power of mentorship, the strength found in vulnerability, and the freedom that comes from embracing your true self. Welcome to your safe space to be real, be heard, and be inspired. Tune in and discover: You're not alone. You're not an imposter. You're an Ivy League Sister

  1. 08/16/2025

    Owning Her Power: An HBS Grad’s Journey Beyond ‘Never Enough’ | Jennifer Bessinger

    In this powerful episode, Harvard Business School alum Jennifer Bessinger opens up about her transformative journey from chasing external validation to living life on her own terms—whether in the boardroom or on the hockey rink she joined at 40. Jennifer shares raw, honest insights on: Navigating gendered double standards in leadershipRecognizing when competitiveness fuels you—and when it keeps you stuckBreaking free from the “never enough” mindsetFinding community and joy through women’s hockeyThe role of faith and self-trust in deciding what truly matters Whether you’re a high-achieving professional feeling burned out, an ambitious woman at a career crossroads, or someone ready to trade constant performance for authentic fulfillment, Jennifer’s story offers both inspiration and practical wisdom. Join us for an honest, engaging conversation that will challenge you to rethink what “success” really means—and empower you to own your power in every arena of life.

    58 min

  2. 07/06/2025

    The Courage to Begin Again: A Journey from Startup Hustle to Soulful Success with Michelle Jeong

    Join us for a powerful conversation with Michelle Jeong—entrepreneur, single mom, and founder of FIRE Capital—who has rebuilt her life through bold pivots, personal truth, and financial self-trust. Hosted by Crystal Flores, this session offers an honest look at what it takes to start over and thrive on your own terms. What You’ll Learn How to navigate life’s pivots with clarity, resilience, and self-compassionTools for reclaiming your voice and power after burnout, divorce, or major changeWhy financial self-care is foundational for personal freedomThe power of building a life (and career) on your terms—without losing yourselfHow to embrace your own path, even if it looks nothing like the one you planned This is more than a story—it’s a roadmap for any woman ready to rise. Come as you are, and leave with renewed courage for whatever comes next.

    58 min

  3. 03/23/2025

    Designing Beyond Boundaries: Embracing Creativity Over Certainty

    Join us or an inspiring conversation with multifaceted creative and Cornell alumna , who traded corporate security for the unpredictable yet fulfilling world of entrepreneurship and costume design. As a mother, business owner, and artist, she shares her journey of transformation and how embracing uncertainty became her greatest strength. In this episode, we'll dive into: Her pivotal decision to leave corporate life and fully commit to her business after designing a bouquet for country star, Miranda Lambert. How listening to her internal compass helped her navigate career transitions with confidence The importance of avoiding the comparison traps of social media while building a creative business The power of maintaining big dreams even when facing practical challenges This conversation offers valuable insights for anyone looking to break free from conventional paths and build a life guided by creativity rather than fear. ✨

    52 min

  4. 02/06/2025

    The Joy of Career Pivoting: A Journey from GE Capital to the Italian Countryside

    In this episode we dive deep with Dartmouth alumna , a bike tour guide and quilt-maker in Italy who traded Wall Street for winding roads. Alex takes us through the twists and turns of her life, as an Art History major whose path from GE Capital's prestigious Leadership Program to the sun-dappled shores of Lake Como reads like a masterclass in following your heart's compass. Through Alex’s journey we uncover how life’s “wrong turns” often lead us exactly where we need to be. Key Topics: Regret as a powerful teacher on choosing to cultivate intentional connected lives Redefining success beyond the “golden handcuffs” of corporate achievement Allowing passion to be your North Star in manifesting your dream life Finding mentors who uplift and guide you through major life decisions Leaning into your self-confidence and value to create career opportunities that are not on the menu Join us for a conversation that proves that career pivots aren’t just about changing jobs - they are about awakening to the whispers of joy and adventure calling us in a new direction. Whether you're standing at your own crossroads or simply curious about what happens when you dare to reimagine your path, this episode illuminates how curiosity and inspired action can dance together to create a life that feels like coming home to yourself.

    1h 1m
  5. AI For Small Businesses: Empowering Women Founders featuring Tammy Ferris, Dartmouth '01

    12/28/2024

    AI For Small Businesses: Empowering Women Founders featuring Tammy Ferris, Dartmouth '01

    In this authentic and enlightening conversation with Ivy League Sister and tech entrepreneur Tammy Ferris, we explore the evolving relationship between artificial intelligence and human connection in business, and what it means to make technology truly accessible for small business owners. From her unexpected entry into computer science at Dartmouth to building an AI-focused community for entrepreneurs, Tammy shares powerful insights on: Transforming technical knowledge into practical business solutions Using AI to amplify rather than replace human capabilities Breaking down barriers between small businesses and emerging technology Building authentic communities in a digital age Overcoming perfectionism and imposter syndrome in tech Creating value-driven business models that prioritize human connection Making AI approachable for non-technical entrepreneurs Tammy opens up about her own journey of finding her voice in tech, from surviving the 2001 tech crash to discovering her passion for helping small business owners navigate technological change. Don't miss this genuine conversation about what it really takes to bridge the gap between cutting-edge technology and everyday business needs - whether you're a small business owner looking to leverage AI, a community builder seeking to create meaningful connections, or an entrepreneur ready to embrace technological change without losing your human touch. Learn how our community supports women in channeling their expertise into meaningful impact while finding genuine connection with other high-achieving women who understand the journey. Learn more here: www.ivyleaguesisters.com

    37 min
  6. Finding Your Worth: A CFO's Journey from Self-Doubt to the C-Suite featuring Myrna Laine-Hyppolite, Dartmouth '93, Tuck'98

    11/23/2024

    Finding Your Worth: A CFO's Journey from Self-Doubt to the C-Suite featuring Myrna Laine-Hyppolite, Dartmouth '93, Tuck'98

    In this vulnerable and inspiring conversation with financial wellness coach Myrna Laine-Hyppolite, we explore the raw reality of navigating career transitions and building financial independence as a high-achieving woman. From her journey starting in Haiti to becoming a CFO and founding her own business, Myrna shares powerful insights on: Myrna opens up about her own moments of doubt, vulnerability, and ultimate triumph in building a career aligned with her values. She shares actionable advice for women looking to take control of their financial futures while balancing family responsibilities and career growth. Don't miss this authentic conversation about what it really takes to build wealth, find your voice, and create impact - whether you're seeking career advancement, starting a side business, or ready to make a major professional pivot. Learn how our community supports women in channeling their full potential and finding genuine connection with other high-achieving women who understand the journey. Join an Info Session: https://calendly.com/balukjian/ivy-league-sisters-info-session

    41 min
  7. Stop Performing Your Life: A Raw Conversation on Finding Real Connection featuring Rachel Wexler, Dartmouth '97

    11/23/2024

    Stop Performing Your Life: A Raw Conversation on Finding Real Connection featuring Rachel Wexler, Dartmouth '97

    In this raw and revealing conversation with leadership coach Rachel Wexler, Dartmouth '97, we peel back the layers of what it really means to be a high-achieving woman navigating today's complex landscape. We dive deep into: Why being "always on" is killing our joy and what to do about it The hidden cost of people-pleasing and the power of setting boundaries How timers can paradoxically create more freedom and presence in our lives The surprising truth about genuine connection in our "perfectly curated" world Breaking free from the monkey-mind trap that keeps us exhausted Why most networking feels fake and what real community looks like Rachel shares powerful insights on trusting your intuition while building a successful business, plus the unconventional strategies she uses to create meaningful connections in an increasingly disconnected world. We explore the messy reality of entrepreneurship, motherhood, and leadership - and why trying to "balance it all" might be the wrong approach entirely. Learn how our community supports women in reclaiming their power, advancing their dreams, and finding their true sister circle. Come to a Networking and Info Session: https://calendly.com/balukjian/ivy-league-sisters-info-session

    44 min
  8. Beyond People Pleasing to Find Authentic Connection featuring Thandi Jarrett-Abdulali, Columbia University

    11/22/2024

    Beyond People Pleasing to Find Authentic Connection featuring Thandi Jarrett-Abdulali, Columbia University

    In this heartfelt episode, Thandi Jarrett-Abdulali, a veteran higher education professional with two decades of experience in alumni relations, opens up about the delicate balance of people-pleasing, career ambitions, and authentic connection. Thandi shares raw, honest insights on: Breaking free from the "busy trap" and making time for meaningful relationships Navigating motherhood and career while feeling like an outsider in traditional mom groups The importance of vulnerability in rebuilding long-lost connections How to approach relationship rebuilding with intention and authenticity Whether you're struggling with work-life balance, feeling disconnected from important relationships, or seeking to create more authentic connections, Thandi's experiences offer valuable lessons and inspiration. Learn how we help women grow their business, advance their career and offer you a safe space for mental wellness. Come to a Networking & Info Session: https://calendly.com/balukjian/ivy-league-sisters-info-session Follow us on Instagram: @IvyLeagueSisters #PeopleConnections #PersonalGrowth #WomenInLeadership #AuthenticLiving #ColumbiaAlumni

    46 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

Step into the world of high-achieving women who've walked the hallowed halls of the Ivy League, but aren't afraid to get real. In this podcast, we peel back the layers of perfection to reveal the authentic, sometimes messy, always inspiring stories of women who've been where you are. At Ivy League Sisters, we believe in the power of mentorship, the strength found in vulnerability, and the freedom that comes from embracing your true self. Welcome to your safe space to be real, be heard, and be inspired. Tune in and discover: You're not alone. You're not an imposter. You're an Ivy League Sister

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