The Women On Top

Valerie Lynn
  • 5.0 (31)
  • BUSINESS
  • UPDATED SEMIWEEKLY

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. 2D AGO

    Arianna Davis Santana: Executive Editor of The TODAY Show on Ambition, Fulfillment, & Lessons from the Most Powerful Women in Media

    In this episode, we sit down with Arianna Davis Santana, Executive Editor of Digital at the TODAY Show, to explore what it really means to build a career at the center of modern media, and what ambition looks like once you’re inside it. Arianna’s career spans some of the most influential names in media: from Oprah Daily (formerly O, The Oprah Magazine) to the TODAY Show, where she now leads digital strategy and editorial direction while also appearing on-air to break down what’s trending online. Before that, she helped launch OprahMag.com, the fastest-growing site launch in Hearst Magazines’ history, and later helped lead its evolution into Oprah Daily.  She has also shaped editorial storytelling at Refinery29, where she wrote deeply reported features and personal essays centered on culture, identity, and the lived experiences of women. Across every chapter of her career, Arianna has been inside the rooms where modern media is shaped - interviewing icons like Oprah Winfrey, Hillary Clinton, Mariah Carey, John Legend, Will Smith, and more, while also building digital platforms that define what millions of people read, watch, and share. But this conversation goes far beyond titles. We talk about: -The evolution of ambition in modern media -What success actually feels like once you achieve what you thought you wanted -Why leadership sometimes requires a little “Miranda Priestly energy” -How authenticity, kindness, and authority can coexist in powerful women -And how AI, digital culture, and storytelling are reshaping the future of media Arianna also opens up about the deeper lessons she’s learned along the way, including how career setbacks, reinvention, and visibility all shape who you become when no one is watching. At its core, this episode is about rewriting success, redefining ambition, and learning how to lead without losing yourself in the process.   Connect with Arianna: Website: https://www.ariannadavis.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ariannagab LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ariannadavis/ What Would Frida Do?: https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/arianna-davis/what-would-frida-do/9781541646322/?lens=seal-press TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ariannagdavis 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/

    48 min

  2. MAY 6

    Molly McCartan: M&A Expert Shares The Truth About Why Women Are Walking Away From the Workforce & How to Build A Profitable Business You Can Exit

    What does it really take to build a powerful career and a fulfilling life—and why are so many women deciding the traditional path just isn’t worth it anymore? In this episode of The Women On Top, Molly McCartan, Managing Partner at The Whisper Group and Founder & CEO of The Mom Pact, pulls back the curtain on her journey through the high-stakes world of mergers and acquisitions, and the deeper calling that led her to advocate for working women everywhere. We also explore the growing movement of women stepping away from traditional careers—and what needs to change to truly support women in the workplace, at home, and within themselves. If you’ve ever questioned the path you’re on, felt the weight of “doing it all,” or wondered what it would look like to build your own table—this episode is for you. Chapters 00:00 Empowering Women in Business 02:41 Navigating Mergers and Acquisitions 06:08 Building a Supportive Network 08:58 Strategies for Business Success 11:43 Avoiding Common Pitfalls 15:01 Overcoming Burnout and Self-Doubt 25:34 The Pressure to Prove: Women's Challenges in the Workplace 27:42 Negotiating for Yourself: The Importance of Self-Advocacy 29:17 Balancing Work and Family: The Ongoing Struggle 30:04 Finding Support: The Role of Partners in Career Success 31:54 The Workforce Exodus: Why Women Are Leaving Their Jobs 33:13 Creating Resources for Working Moms: The MomPact Initiative 34:29 Advocating for Change: The Need for Better Policies 36:20 Mental Health Resources: A Crucial Need for All 37:51 Closing the Gender Gap: The Fight for Equality 40:44 The Reality of Corporate Loyalty: Understanding Your Worth 42:24 Supporting Yourself: Best Practices for Busy Women 45:45 Embracing Imperfection: The Journey of Growth 47:54 Building Your Own Table: Empowering Women to Lead 49:50 Paying It Forward: The Importance of Mentorship Connect with Molly: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mollymccartan52 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mollyowensmccartan/ The Mom Pact: https://www.entreprenista.com/articles/molly-mccartan-is-building-the-mom-pact-to-advance-ambitious-working-mothers-through-strategy-community-and-career-support 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/

    52 min

  3. APR 22

    Jenneh Rishe: In Loving Memory, Championing Endometriosis & Chronic Illness Awareness

    Today’s episode is a re-release of my conversation with Jenneh Rishe, shared in loving memory of her life. In sad news, Jenneh passed away recently, and I’ve chosen to bring this conversation back because it so deeply reflects who she was - her clarity, her compassion, her honesty, and the way she showed up for others even while navigating her own health journey. Listening back now, her voice carries even more meaning. This episode is not just a conversation, it’s a reflection of her presence, her advocacy, and the impact she made in the lives of so many.  She carried with her fierce hope and faith, and was always looking for the silver lining. It is an honor to get to share her voice again here, and to keep her story and her work alive.  She has left a powerful legacy and will be missed! Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Chronic Illness Advocacy 01:44 The Journey to Diagnosis 08:22 Lack of Awareness in Women's Health 10:56 Understanding Endometriosis Beyond Gynecology 13:14 The Impact of Endometriosis on Overall Health 15:03 Mental Health and Identity After Diagnosis 17:45 Advice for Those Suspecting Endometriosis 21:38 The Importance of Persistence in Health Advocacy 22:44 Navigating the Healthcare System: A Patient's Role 24:56 Effective Communication with Healthcare Providers 26:00 Shared Decision Making in Healthcare 30:46 Journaling as a Tool for Mental Health 33:41 The Journey of Writing and Future Aspirations 36:14 Finding Hope in Chronic Illness 39:24 Empowering Women to Trust Their Bodies Learn More About Jenneh Rische: Website: https://www.jennehrishe.com/ The Endo Co: https://www.theendo.co/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifeabove_illness/?hl=en 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

  4. APR 8

    Melanie Borden: The Personal Branding Myth Nobody Talks About - Why Visibility Comes Before Confidence

    Show Notes: What if the thing standing between you and your most visible, impactful self isn't a lack of strategy — but a fear you've been calling something else? In this episode, I sit down with Melanie Borden — brand strategist, speaker, and author of Theater of the Mind — for an honest, grounding conversation about what it actually means to build a personal brand as a woman. Not the polished version. The real one. Melanie has helped hundreds of women step into their professional presence with clarity and confidence, and what she's learned might surprise you: your brand isn't something you create. It's something you uncover. It's the essence of who you already are — and the work is learning how to transfer that into everything you put out into the world. We talk about the trap of overthinking, the real reason imposter syndrome keeps showing up, and why so many women are waiting for confidence before they start showing up — when it actually works the other way around. Melanie's framework is simple but transformative: visibility builds confidence, not the other way around. Whether you're just beginning to think about your brand or you've been circling it for years, this conversation is your invitation to stop waiting and start being seen. In this episode, you'll hear: What a personal brand actually is (and why most people get it wrong)How authenticity and your "inner essence" are the core of everything you put outWhy imposter syndrome shows up so often for women — and how to start dismantling itThe small but powerful habit of collecting proof of your own achievementsWhy creating content with your audience in mind (not yourself) changes everythingWhat Melanie means when she says confidence is a result of visibility, not a requirement for itChapters 00:00 Introduction to Branding and Personal Essence 05:30 Navigating Vulnerability and Imposter Syndrome 10:08 Theater of the Mind: Crafting Your Brand Narrative 15:22 Understanding Readiness in Branding 19:26 Defining Your Brand: Melanie's Perspective 22:26 Empowering Women in Personal Branding 25:05 Facing Fears and Taking Risks 30:10 Learning from Setbacks 33:07 Creating for Your Audience 38:15 The Power of Visibility 44:04 Transformative Impact of Personal Branding Connect with Melanie:  Website: https://humantobrand.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melanieborden/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/humantobrand/ 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

  5. MAR 25

    Dalourny Nemorin: Running for Congress as a Woman - A Personal Story of Refusal, Community, and Relentless Hope

    In this conversation, Dalourny Nemorin shares the story behind the fire that drives her, from her Haitian roots to her work as a public defender, and now, her decision to run for Congress. But this episode goes deeper than titles. It’s about what it takes to keep going when the work is heavy.  How to stay hopeful without becoming naive. And why community is not just important, it’s everything. Dalourny reflects on standing on the shoulders of those who came before her, people who believed in change before it was visible, and how that legacy shapes the way she moves through the world today. This is a conversation about resilience, responsibility, and the kind of hope that refuses to disappear.  A powerful listen for anyone who feels called to something bigger—and is learning how to keep going. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dalourny Nemorin 03:01 Journey to Becoming a Public Defender 05:56 The Challenges of Public Defense 09:02 Resilience in Advocacy 11:59 Navigating Politics as a Woman 15:06 The Importance of Networking 17:52 Mentorship and Guidance 21:12 Running for Congress: A Call to Action 23:58 Understanding the Role of Congress 26:51 The Impact of Federal Policies 29:47 The Future of Advocacy and Change 31:55 Survival Mode: The Struggles of the Working Poor 33:00 Resilience and Optimism in the Face of Adversity 36:52 The Importance of Self-Preservation in Activism 42:07 Proposed Solutions for Healthcare and Housing Affordability 45:23 Navigating Relationships Amidst Political Beliefs 47:13 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Embracing Identity 52:27 Choosing Your Life Path and Defining Success Links: Website: https://www.dalourny.nyc/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dalourny YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Dalourny 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

  6. MAR 11

    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

  7. 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

  8. 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
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5
out of 5
31 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!

Information

  • Creator
    Valerie Lynn
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    66
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Women On Top
  • Show Website
    The Women On Top

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