The Women On Top

Valerie Lynn

HELLO, Gorgeous. Welcome to The Women On Top — the mentorship podcast you’ve always wanted, designed by women, for women. Here, we’re not about competition; we’re about collaboration.  This is where female leaders, rising disruptors, and bold changemakers pull back the curtain and share the lessons, the failures, and the breakthroughs that shaped them.  Think unfiltered wisdom, candid conversations, and the kind of advice you’d only get if you were sitting across from them over coffee—or champagne. From boardrooms to startups, side hustles to personal reinventions, we’re learning directly from women who are rewriting what leadership looks like.  They’re not gatekeeping; they’re handing you the playbook. So, if you’ve ever wished for a mentor in your ear—someone who gets it, who’s been there, and who isn’t afraid to tell it like it is—this is your podcast. Grab your espresso, adjust your heels, and let’s strut to the top—because we don’t just break glass ceilings, we own the skyline. >Disclaimer: No actual glass ceilings were harmed in the making of this podcast… yet!

  1. 5D AGO

    Molly Armanino: Where the Mountains Meet Grief - Navigating Loss, Risk, and the Lines We Choose

    In this deep and raw episode of The Women On Top, Valerie Lynn sits down with world-class freeride skier Molly Armanino for a powerful conversation about courage, intuition, and finding meaning in the mountains. Molly shares what it truly means to pursue a life on the edge—navigating fear, adrenaline, and the deep respect required when moving through wild landscapes. She opens up about how her connection to nature has shaped her spirituality, sharpened her intuition, and taught her how to stay grounded in the present moment. The conversation also explores the profound ways grief and loss can transform us. Molly reflects on the relationships formed through shared tragedy in the mountain community and the resilience that emerges from those experiences. Together, Valerie and Molly discuss the power of self-trust, the growing presence of women in adventure sports, and the responsibility that comes with being a visible role model. Molly reminds listeners that living boldly is not just about risk—it’s about authenticity, connection, and recognizing the impact we have on others. This episode is an inspiring reflection on bravery, presence, and what it means to truly live on top. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Molly Armanino 02:07 The Journey of a Freeride Skier 05:30 Understanding Fear and Adrenaline 10:03 Intuition and Decision Making 14:32 Spirituality and Life Choices 19:54 Connection to Nature and the Mountains 24:45 Empowerment and Independence in the Mountains 30:45 Navigating Life's Choices and Opportunities 36:59 Lessons from the Slopes of Change 38:50 The Illusion of Achievement 40:46 Finding Satisfaction in the Moment 45:28 The Value of Micro Moments 46:15 Lessons from Loss 50:09 Navigating Grief 58:27 Messages from the Departed 01:09:45 Empowering the Next Generation Connect with Molly: Slopes of Change Film: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9WZghuoJX_o Website: https://mollyarmanino.mypixieset.com/about/ Freeride World Tour: https://www.freerideworldtour.com/riders/molly-armanino/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mollyarmanino/ Connect with The Women On Top: Follow The Women On Top Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts. Subscribe for more empowering conversations and stories! Website: https://thewomenontop.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewomenontop Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewomenontoppodcast/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-lynn/

    1h 2m
  2. FEB 25

    Sarah Arvizu: From Stage Three to Creating Sunshine, Strength, and Community

    In this episode of The Women On Top, Valerie Lynn sits down with Sarah Arvizu, a stage three breast cancer thriver and the founder of the Creating Sunshine podcast and the Sunshine Era.  Their conversation unfolds like a quiet journey through fear, resilience, and transformation, where every moment, small or monumental, holds meaning. Sarah opens up about her cancer experience, the life-altering diagnosis, and the unexpected lessons it brought. She shares the power of storytelling, the way vulnerability can create connection, and how building a supportive community can become a lifeline.  Through reflection, laughter, and honesty, Sarah invites listeners into her world—a space where strength is born in openness, self-care is non-negotiable, and embracing the present becomes a daily practice. This episode is for anyone navigating life’s challenges, seeking to find meaning in adversity, or yearning to create a life full of connection, joy, and purpose. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sarah Arvizu 02:56 The Power of Sharing Personal Stories 06:01 Facing Cancer: A Journey of Resilience 06:42 Transformative Moments: Speaking on Stage 09:46 The Diagnosis: A Life-Changing Moment 12:40 Navigating Treatment and Emotions 15:56 Finding Strength in Vulnerability 18:16 Reevaluating Life's Priorities 21:03 Lessons Learned Through Adversity 24:25 Empowering Women: Prioritizing Self-Care 26:53 Creating Sunshine: Building a Supportive Community 29:52 The Journey Forward: Embracing New Beginnings 32:57 Closing Reflections and Future Aspirations About Sarah: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarah_arvizu/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creating-sunshine/id1720968449? LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/saraharvizu?utm_source=ig&utm_medium=social&utm_content=link_in_bio&fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQMMjU2MjgxMDQwNTU4AAGn0fi6pAZAClBXxV6wi_ERPTFYAJ8cKt_MV224kzY5b1ry6Rs34wclykO5YR4_aem_18-vxJZWfuMXEawtq3HiRA Connect with The Women On Top: Follow The Women On Top Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts. Subscribe for more empowering conversations and stories! Website: https://thewomenontop.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewomenontop Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewomenontoppodcast/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-lynn/

    43 min
  3. FEB 11

    Meagan Allers: The Rise of Community in an AI-First World: Creating Space for Meaningful Connection

    In a world humming with AI, automation, and endless digital noise, something quieter and far more human is making a comeback. Community. In this episode of The Women On Top, Valerie Lynn sits down with Meagan Allers, Community Manager and Partnership Strategist at Marco Polo, for a conversation about what it really means to create spaces where people feel seen, safe, and connected. Not the kind of community measured in numbers or engagement metrics, but the kind that lingers, roots itself in trust, and feels like coming home. Together, they explore the often misunderstood difference between community building and community management, why genuine connection cannot be rushed or manufactured, and how introverts, often underestimated, can become some of the most powerful community leaders. Meagan shares her own winding path into this work, from boldly cold reaching out to start a women’s pickleball group, to helping cultivate meaningful connection inside a fast growing tech company. They also talk about the quiet return to in person gatherings, the role of storytelling in technology, and the beautifully unexpected range of people finding connection through Marco Polo today. At its heart, this conversation is a reminder that while technology can scale systems, belonging is still built in small, human moments, one conversation at a time. If you are building a brand, nurturing a community, navigating loneliness in a hyper connected world, or simply craving something more real, this episode is for you. About Meagan: Meagan Allers is a Community Manager and Partnership Strategist at Marco Polo, where she designs spaces rooted in connection, trust, and belonging. With a background in storytelling, partnerships, and community strategy, Meagan brings a deeply human lens to tech, grounded in the belief that meaningful relationships are the foundation of everything worth building. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Community Building 02:56 Community Building vs. Community Management 06:04 The Journey into Community Building 09:08 The Importance of Authentic Connection 12:03 Creating Inclusive Spaces for Women 14:59 Launching a Local Pickleball Community 17:53 The Power of Cold Outreach 20:58 Managing Community Energy and Engagement 24:07 The Rise of In-Person Communities 26:52 Niche Communities and Their Growth 30:03 The Value of Community in Tech 33:01 Unexpected Lessons from Startup Life 36:14 Measuring Community Impact 38:57 Diverse User Demographics of Marco Polo 41:53 The Deeper Why Behind Community Work 45:03 Closing Reflections and Quotes Connect with Meagan: linkedin.com/in/meaganallers https://www.instagram.com/meaganallers/?hl=en https://www.facebook.com/61574537443033/videos/ Connect with The Women On Top: Follow The Women On Top Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts. Subscribe for more empowering conversations and stories! Website: https://thewomenontop.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewomenontop Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewomenontoppodcast/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-lynn/

    46 min
  4. JAN 28

    Jen Szpigiel: Mom of Four Risking it All... And Building A Multi-Million Dollar Empire

    What does it really take to build multiple seven-figure businesses while raising four children? In this powerful conversation, host Valerie Lynn sits down with Jen, founder of Becoming Iconic, who shares her unfiltered journey from corporate marketing to entrepreneurial success. Episode Chapters [00:00] Introduction to Jen and Her Journey [02:23] Facing Challenges and Breakdowns [05:34] The Financial Struggles and Lessons Learned [10:21] The Birth of Becoming Iconic [12:36] The Evolution of Becoming Iconic and Iconic Magazine [16:35] Advice for Aspiring Coaches and Entrepreneurs [20:06] Redefining Success Beyond Million Dollar Businesses [24:42] The Value of Six-Figure Businesses [25:15] Enjoying the Journey [26:05] Finding Your One Thing [29:25] The Concept of Balance vs. Harmony [34:29] Lessons on Money and Wealth [38:17] Overcoming Pressure in Business [41:19] Becoming Iconic by Being Decisive [42:09] Get Out of Your Own Way About the Guest Jen is the Founder of Becoming Iconic and the Founder and Editor in Chief of Iconic Magazine as well as a mom of four.  Jen has helped thousands of women worldwide build successful businesses, resulting in over $100 million in sales through her full service brand that incorporates mentorship and done-for-you creative services. Renowned for her innovative approach to business and her impeccable leadership, her consulting and mentorship consistently generate waitlists. Connect with Jen: ICONic Capsule - https://becomingiconic.myflodesk.com/iconiccapsule Digital Copy of Magazine - https://becomingiconic.co/magazine Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/becomingiconic/ Website - https://becomingiconic.co/ Connect with The Women On Top: Follow The Women On Top Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts. Subscribe for more empowering conversations and stories! Website: https://thewomenontop.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewomenontop Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewomenontoppodcast/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-lynn/

    49 min
  5. JAN 14

    Naama Zusman: A Masterclass - Career Transitions, Getting Unstuck & Reinventing Your Life in 2026

    -In this conversation, Valerie Lynn speaks with Naama Zusman, a licensed life, career, and health coach, about navigating major life transitions and career changes. Naama shares her personal journey from being an artist to becoming a yoga teacher and eventually a coach, emphasizing the importance of following 'breadcrumbs'—the clues that guide us toward our true paths.  They discuss the iterative process of career exploration, the balance between financial realities and aspirations, and the significance of understanding one's zone of genius. Naama encourages listeners to embrace their authentic selves and make choices that align with their values, ultimately leading to a fulfilling life. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Career Transitions 01:39 Naama's Personal Journey 07:55 Exploring New Paths 14:22 The Shift to Coaching 19:14 Navigating Career Transitions 24:28 Balancing Passion and Practicality 28:19 Navigating Job Transitions and Identity Changes 33:17 Understanding the Zone of Genius 39:59 Finding Your Passion and Purpose 44:02 Embracing Simplicity in Decision Making 48:37 Living Your One Precious Life ✨ What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How to approach career transitions as an iterative, exploratory process -Why following the “breadcrumbs” of your past experiences can guide your next move -How to balance financial realities with your aspirations -Identifying your zone of genius and what energizes you most -Embracing authenticity and letting go of societal expectations -Steps to get unstuck and start your career reinvention journey **FOR OUR LISTENERS:  FREE PASSIONS AND PURPOSE WORKBOOK!* Download it here: https://naamazusman.kit.com/passions-purpose-workbook Connect with Naama: Website: https://www.naamazusman.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/naamazusman/ Resources: https://linktr.ee/naamazusman?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaf1Yx1j2me0hjdeQBv4vQiVAJOX_-XoakmkZGLpx7VxDIhyyaLnxEJNC3W05A_aem_kqJ9bZjJMsbHr60FFouxbA Connect with The Women On Top: Follow The Women On Top Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts. Subscribe for more empowering conversations and stories! Website: https://thewomenontop.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewomenontop Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewomenontoppodcast/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-lynn/

    47 min
  6. JAN 1

    Solo Episode: New Year 2026 - Six Lessons for Anyone in a Season of Transformation

    Happy New Year, friends! 🎉  Valerie Lynn kicks off 2026 with a deeply personal solo episode on Women On Top, sharing her journey of loss, transformation, and self-discovery. After her corporate position was eliminated, Valerie found herself navigating the unexpected darkness of identity loss and self-doubt.  In this episode, she opens up about the whispers of fear, unworthiness, and the relentless inner critic—but also the liberating truths that come when we strip away external validation and reconnect with ourselves. Valerie shares how The Artist’s Way and the practice of morning pages helped her reclaim creativity, explore forgotten joys, and rediscover the young, unapologetic version of herself.  Through simple acts like wandering a dollar store or revisiting childhood hobbies, she reconnects with life just because—without needing a reason or ROI. This episode is packed with six powerful lessons in leadership and life: You can’t lead others without leading yourself.Your identity goes beyond titles.The best leaders know how to return home to themselves.Contentedness over happiness is a radical, grounding stance.We are all artists, and life is meant to be lived just because.We are fragile beings with infinite dreams—and that’s beautiful.If you’re stepping into a new year of transition, transformation, or simply seeking a deeper connection with yourself, this episode will remind you: it’s okay to sit in the darkness, trust the journey, and allow a truer, kinder version of yourself to emerge. 💌 Valerie’s message is clear: You are enough. You are allowed to dream. You are allowed to just be. Connect with The Women On Top: Follow The Women On Top Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts. Subscribe for more empowering conversations and stories! Website: https://thewomenontop.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewomenontop Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewomenontoppodcast/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-lynn/

    22 min
  7. 12/17/2025

    Victoria Pelletier: Becoming a COO at 24, Turning Trauma Into Power, and the #NoExcuses Philosophy that You Need Now

    In this episode of The Women On Top, Valerie Lynn sits down with Victoria Pelletier—a force of nature who became a COO before most people feel confident in their first leadership role. Today, she’s a sought-after keynote speaker, corporate executive, and author known for her unapologetic no excuses philosophy. What unfolds is a raw and powerful conversation about what it really takes to rise inside the corporate world—and why resilience, ownership, and courage matter more than any job title. Valerie and Victoria dive deep into: 🔥 How Victoria went from a challenging early life to becoming a corporate executive before 30  🔥 The “no excuses” mindset that changed everything—and how to build it yourself  🔥 The truth about resilience and why the best leaders are forged, not found  🔥 How to advance your career strategically (without waiting for permission)  🔥 The surprising reason Victoria loves corporate life—and what it gives her that entrepreneurship didn’t  🔥 Her evolution into keynote speaking and the power of using your voice  🔥 Why mentorship, influence, and sponsorship are game-changers for women  🔥 What it looks like to pursue leadership and motherhood without apology 🔥 How to redefine success—and use fear as a compass for your next level This episode is equal parts tactical and deeply human. If you’re navigating your career, stepping into leadership, or craving a life built on courage instead of comfort… this conversation will light a fire in you. Chapters 00:00 Victoria Pelletier's Remarkable Journey 02:50 Building Confidence in Leadership 06:01 The Corporate World: A Love Story 08:56 The Transition to Keynote Speaking 12:06 Practical Tips for Career Advancement 14:52 The No Excuses Mindset 17:40 Resilience and Leadership 20:43 Skills for Future Leaders 23:58 Mentorship and Influence 26:56 Purpose-Driven Leadership 30:03 Integrating Motherhood and Career 32:58 Defining Success and Influence 35:56 Embracing Fear for Growth Connect with Victoria: Website: https://victoria-pelletier.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@VictoriaPelletierUnstoppable LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoriapelletier/ Connect with The Women On Top: Follow The Women On Top Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts. Subscribe for more empowering conversations and stories! Website: https://thewomenontop.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewomenontop Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewomenontoppodcast/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-lynn/

    44 min
  8. 12/10/2025

    Solo Episode: The Sponsorship Gap Women Are Facing

    In this conversation, Valerie Lynn discusses her journey of stepping into leadership roles, driven by the encouragement of a colleague who recognized her potential. She shares her initial fears and excitement about taking on new responsibilities and how a situation forced her to embrace her leadership capabilities, ultimately leading to personal growth and self-discovery. Valerie explores a paradox many high-achieving women experience: they are often over-mentored but under-sponsored. Women invest time in seeking advice, guidance, and coaching—but when it comes to getting opportunities that actually advance their careers, the support they need is much rarer. Valerie breaks down the difference between mentorship and sponsorship, shares research on career advancement, and offers practical ways for women to build a network that actually moves the needle. Call to Action / Reflection for Listeners Ask: Are you investing more in mentors than sponsors?Who in your network is actively advocating for you?Identify one actionable step this week to move someone from mentor to sponsor, or gain a sponsor of your own.Connect with The Women On Top: Follow The Women On Top Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts. Subscribe for more empowering conversations and stories! Website: https://thewomenontop.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thewomenontop Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewomenontoppodcast/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-lynn/

    19 min
5
out of 5
30 Ratings

About

HELLO, Gorgeous. Welcome to The Women On Top — the mentorship podcast you’ve always wanted, designed by women, for women. Here, we’re not about competition; we’re about collaboration.  This is where female leaders, rising disruptors, and bold changemakers pull back the curtain and share the lessons, the failures, and the breakthroughs that shaped them.  Think unfiltered wisdom, candid conversations, and the kind of advice you’d only get if you were sitting across from them over coffee—or champagne. From boardrooms to startups, side hustles to personal reinventions, we’re learning directly from women who are rewriting what leadership looks like.  They’re not gatekeeping; they’re handing you the playbook. So, if you’ve ever wished for a mentor in your ear—someone who gets it, who’s been there, and who isn’t afraid to tell it like it is—this is your podcast. Grab your espresso, adjust your heels, and let’s strut to the top—because we don’t just break glass ceilings, we own the skyline. >Disclaimer: No actual glass ceilings were harmed in the making of this podcast… yet!