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. 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

  2. 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

  3. 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

  4. 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

  5. 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

  6. 12/03/2025

    Mandy Schell: We're Over-Networked and Underconnected: Why Proximity Matters the Most!

    In this conversation, Mandy Schell, founder of the Pacific Northwest Women's Network, shares her journey of empowering women through community and connection. She discusses the transformative power of saying yes to new opportunities, the importance of creating a welcoming space for women to connect, and the impact of her events on attendees' lives. Mandy emphasizes the shift from traditional networking to building genuine relationships and proximity, and she reflects on the challenges and lessons learned in event planning. Her insights on leadership, financial transparency, and the future of her network inspire listeners to embrace their own journeys of growth and connection. To every woman who craves meaningful, in-person experiences — LIVE is Mandy's signature annual gathering centered on deep connection, powerful visibility, and building the rooms we all deserve!  Tickets to PNW LIVE 2026!  January 23, 2026  Tacoma, WA:   https://www.pnwwomensnetwork.com/tickets?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAae2tb7WFYi1iIdmSvmVagAMVtQeJ5zhvXyLGM6d6mSDTkKOM64TuvhCGJLC2w_aem_K2ioBPgimHER9oM-G1iDvg Chapters 00:00 Empowering Women Through Community 03:02 The Catalyst for Change 06:00 Overcoming Fear and Embracing Opportunity 09:05 The Impact of Connection 11:55 Creating an Ecosystem of Support 14:58 Building Relationships and Authenticity 17:55 Lessons from the First Event 20:51 The Journey of Event Planning 23:54 The Purpose Beyond Profit 26:33 Creating Meaningful Connections 27:39 Dreams and Aspirations in Event Planning 29:20 The Joy of Dressing Up and Community 30:58 Challenges in Event Sponsorship 33:20 Strategies for Securing Sponsors 35:32 Handling Unexpected Challenges 38:36 The Importance of a Supportive Team 40:21 Evolving Membership Models 42:57 Creating Fun and Engaging Events 45:25 Empowering Women Through Strength and Leadership Connect with Mandy:  Tickets to LIVE 2026! https://www.pnwwomensnetwork.com/tickets?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAae2tb7WFYi1iIdmSvmVagAMVtQeJ5zhvXyLGM6d6mSDTkKOM64TuvhCGJLC2w_aem_K2ioBPgimHER9oM-G1iDvgPNW Women's Network: https://www.pnwwomensnetwork.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsmandyschell/?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/

    47 min

  7. 11/19/2025

    Dylan Jahraus: How One Etsy Product Turned Into a Million-Dollar Empire - Your Path to Financial Freedom

    In this episode of The Women On Top, Valerie Lynn sits down with Dylan Jahraus, powerhouse Etsy seller, coach, and former corporate leader, for a deeply honest conversation about ambition, resilience, and building a life on your own terms. Dylan opens up about what pushed her to walk away from the corporate path and how she turned a simple Etsy shop into a multi-seven-figure business. She shares the real challenges behind the highlight reel, the role community played in her growth, and the mindset shifts that helped her navigate doubt, burnout, and big leaps. Together, Valerie and Dylan dig into the strategies that actually move the needle in e-commerce, from understanding customer behavior to staying ahead of trends, and why consistency still outperforms perfection. Dylan also talks about the personal “why” that fuels her, the legacy she hopes to leave for her daughters, and the quiet power of choosing flexibility, freedom, and self-trust. This episode is equal parts tactical and deeply human, offering practical steps for aspiring entrepreneurs and heartfelt encouragement for anyone ready to chase a bigger vision. Chapters 00:00 – The Journey Begins: From Corporate to Etsy Success  02:53 – Building an Empire: Overcoming Challenges & Customer Relations  05:58 – E-Commerce Explained: Strategies That Actually Work  09:13 – Understanding Customer Needs: The Key to Longevity  12:09 – Trends & Market Research: Staying Ahead  14:50 – Facing Doubts: The Importance of a Strong “Why”  18:03 – Creating a Legacy: Personal Stories & Motivations  20:52 – The Power of Flexibility: Owning Your Time  23:58 – Saturation & Strategy: Standing Out in a Crowded Market  26:04 – The Power of Consistency  27:40 – Practical Strategies for Sustainable Growth  30:16 – Understanding Digital Products  31:22 – Aligning Skills With Your Business Ideas  33:17 – Finding Fulfillment in Entrepreneurship  36:11 – Building Confidence Through Action  37:38 – How Long It Really Takes to See Success on Etsy  39:13 – Learning From Mentors  40:43 – Balancing Business & Family  43:04 – Dreaming Bigger: Future Aspirations & Growth Connect with Dylan:   The Ultimate Etsy Course: https://dylanjahraus.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dylanjahraus/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeO8Gmc2B-3G2fgcFnRR4Xw Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/etsy-seller-success-tips-for-starting-growing-and/id1647518076 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

  8. 11/12/2025

    Solo Episode: I Accidentally Went Sober for Over a Year - and Here’s What It Taught Me About Habits, Letting Go, and Leading My Life

    Episode Description: What happens when you accidentally go sober for a year—and discover it’s about so much more than giving up alcohol? In this solo episode, Valerie Lynn shares her personal journey of stepping away from drinking, not as a punishment or deprivation, but as an experiment in curiosity, self-love, and playfulness. Valerie walks us through how a small, spontaneous choice turned into a year-long exploration of habits, cravings, and personal empowerment. Along the way, she reflects on the unexpected benefits of sobriety: clarity of mind, better connection to her body, playful creativity, and the power of curiosity over restriction. This episode isn’t about shaming drinking or claiming sobriety is the “right” path. It’s about experimenting, noticing what truly serves you, and learning how to lead your own life with intention and presence. If you’ve ever wondered whether you could let go of a habit—or simply want inspiration for living with more clarity, choice, and joy—this episode is for you. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How a small experiment with sobriety became a transformative year.Using curiosity and playfulness to shift habits without shame or restriction.How to identify what a craving or habit is really trying to give you.The surprising physical, mental, and emotional benefits of stepping back from alcohol.How lessons from sobriety can be applied to relationships, work, creativity, and personal growth.A fresh perspective on self-mastery, empowerment, and amplifying the good in life.Key Takeaways: Sometimes what you think you need isn’t what you actually need.Habits are often chasing feelings—clarity, fun, relaxation—not substances themselves.Experimentation and curiosity are more powerful than restriction and shame.Leading your life comes from tuning into yourself, making conscious choices, and finding your own “buzz” through self-mastery.Resources & Mentions: Mocktail inspiration and creative drink experimentsReflections on self-mastery, mindfulness, and curiosity as tools for life transformationJoin Valerie as she reflects on this playful, sassy, and deeply empowering year, and discover what happens when curiosity leads the way. 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
See All (58)

5
out of 5
28 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
    58
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Women On Top
  • Show Website
    The Women On Top