Opportunity Knocks by EmpowHer Purpose

Michelle Valenzuela Wolf
  • 5.0 (18)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to Opportunity Knocks with Michelle Wolf of EmpowHer Purpose! Every Thursday, I feature a new guest female entrepreneur. These episodes are here to give you insight into how to take, make, create and evaluate opportunities. So listen in, knock knock, and open the door!

  1. 6D AGO

    E120: Unlock Confidence and Stage Presence: Mastering the Spotlight with Tanya Memme

    We’re so excited to be back and kicking off another episode of  the Opportunity Knocks Podcast! In Episode 120: Unlock Confidence & Stage Presence - Mastering the Spotlight, we’re bringing back a powerhouse guest you may remember from Episode 85, the multi-faceted Tanya Memme, Emmy-nominated TV host, executive media coach, speaker, and former Miss World.  Tanya’s growth in the last 2 years has been nothing short of inspiring, and we’re thrilled to welcome her again, especially as she is also joining us as our guest speaker at the upcoming MembHership Event on November 12th at Next Health, a national longevity company, dedicated toward wellness for all. In our last conversation, we explored the beauty of losing and finding yourself, showing up authentically, and using life’s challenges as catalysts for growth. Since then, Tanya’s journey has continued to unfold in powerful ways. She’s stepped into new roles as a somatic healing coach, podcast host, and creator of the Confidence Toolkit, continuing her mission of helping others connect to their truth and purpose. In this new episode, we dive deep into what it means to show up and be seen without losing who you are, and how vulnerability, resilience, and self-awareness can transform not only your stage presence but your everyday life. Some key takeaways include: (use bullets here, not dashes) -The power of reinvention and self-trust - Why authentic confidence begins from within - Techniques for embodying presence, both on stage and off -Overcoming the fear of visibility and reclaiming your voice One of the biggest gold nuggets from this episode? You just have to start. Show up as yourself, even if it’s messy, even if it’s imperfect. That’s where the magic begins. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone ready to communicate with confidence, lead with authenticity, and own their unique voice.  #OpportunityKnocksPodcast #MasterTheSpotlight #ConfidenceCoach #ShowUpAuthentically #OwnYourVoice #WomenInLeadership #PersonalGrowthJourney #AuthenticConfidence #NextHealth #MembHershipEvent #TransformYourLife #EvolveAndGrow #transformationalCoach #TopCoachLA

    31 min

  2. AUG 28

    E119: You Gotta Have Grit with Shira Yevin, Founder of Gritty in Pink

    I’m tickled pink to release this new episode on the Opportunity Knocks podcast and just in time for the holiday weekend. Have you ever had a connection come full circle? ✨ I first met Shira Yevin at a breakfast for venture capitalists investing in female-owned businesses. Months later, her team came to her to recommend me to speak at one of her events. It was such a powerful reminder: you never know the impact you make—lasting impressions matter. Those are just the gritty facts. 💫 Now, on Episode 119 of Opportunity Knocks, Shira—musician, entrepreneur, founder of Gritty In Pink, and so much more—shares how she went from the Vans Warped Tour to being backed by Live Nation. Known for her relentless drive and ingenuity, Shira is transforming the industry for creatives with a bold mission: Creating a platform that amplifies women in music and beyond. 🎶🔥 Shira’s journey has grit written all over it. After noticing too few female musicians on stage, she turned frustration into fire—and built a movement to change the industry. Today, her vision is backed by Live Nation, one of the biggest players in entertainment, proving just how powerful her mission truly is. In this episode, Shira shares: ✨ How her east coast hustle and grind mentality led her to launch Gritty In Pink. ✨ The pivotal moment on Warped Tour that sparked her mission. ✨ What it means to be backed by Live Nation and scale her vision. ✨ Why connections and community matter. ✨ Advice for pursuing passion while building financial independence. Shira’s magnetic personality, sharp business instincts, and unstoppable energy shine through every story. 🎧 Tune in to hear how she’s breaking barriers, changing the industry, and why Gritty In Pink is just getting started. #OpportunityKnocksPodcast #EmpowHerPurpose #GrittyInPink #FemaleFounders #WomenInMusic #LiveNation #WomenSupportingWomen #Trailblazer #KeepGoingToKeepGrowing #VentureCapital #LastingImpressions #Podcast #WomenInMusic #LiveNation #FemaleFounders #OpportunityKnocksPodcast #Podcast #WomenInMusic #LiveNation #FemaleFounders #OpportunityKnocksPodcast

    57 min

  3. JUN 24

    E118: Be Confident: Let Your Breath Guide You with Evie Jeang

    Guesss what? I have an Opportunity for YOU! 👏✨As we settle down into the Summer, I am so excited to share a new Opportunity Knocks 🎙️Episode 118: Be Confident! Let Your Breath Guide You. 💨🍃with the amazing Evie Jeang. Evie opens up about how becoming a single mother helped her reconnect to her emotional core after years of learning to “cut off” feelings to survive in a high-pressure legal world. Now, she’s developed a surrogacy app designed to help women build the families they’re ready for—on their own terms. Evie is a former lawyer and judge who developed her own surrogacy app, Surrogacy Concierge. We met last year at a wellness event and I am honored to have met her as I led her through one of my breathwork sessions. We take a deep dive into Evie’s career and her journey of being a single mother. ⚖️ Evie built a legal career rooted in integrity, emotional intelligence, and lived experience with over two decades of experience in family law. She uses her own childhood as a guide to better advocate for families navigating their most vulnerable moments given that she was raised by divorced parents. Her unique balance of deep understanding of family dynamics and methodical precision has made her a force in and out of the courtroom.  In this episode, we explore: • Emotional discipline is required in our careers and why self-trust is everything • How personal transformation begins with self-love 🫶 • Letting go of perfectionism and accepting yourself🙏 • Evolving the definition of family, and why love forms the deepest bonds, not biology Let’s take care of our minds and bodies! Log onto EmpowHer Purpose at https://www.empowherpurpose.com (https://www.empowherpurpose.com/) and learn more coaching, Breathwork and the Akashic Records.

    42 min
  4. E117: Overcoming Doubt and Getting Words on the Page with Linda Sivertsen

    FEB 11

    E117: Overcoming Doubt and Getting Words on the Page with Linda Sivertsen

    I'm thrilled to release episode 117 of the “Opportunity Knocks” podcast. I had the pleasure of speaking with Linda Sivertsen, an accomplished author, book coach, and the creative force behind Beautiful Writers. Linda’s journey is a testament to the power of listening to intuition, trusting the creative process, and showing up for your dreams—no matter how impossible they may seem. She is also a fellow Trojan. Fight on! ✌️ And drumroll please, my writers coach! Yes, I have committed to getting started on writing my book. You see, we have many ideas, and all need to enlist support to get to our goals! I’m ecstatic! 🤩  In our interview, Linda shared how a vivid dream led her to write her first book, setting her on a path that would later include bestselling titles, high-profile collaborations, and coaching aspiring authors to bring their stories to life. Despite not seeing herself as an academic, Linda’s passion for storytelling and relentless commitment to craft have made her a sought-after guide in the publishing world.🌎 Throughout our conversation, we explored the emotional weight of writing, the importance of committing to creative goals, and how grief, change, and even unexpected life challenges can fuel transformation. Linda opened up about navigating a difficult divorce, balancing career ambitions with personal growth, and the reality of stepping away from a long-running retreat program to create space for new creative pursuits. Key takeaways from our conversation: • ✍️ Why every person has a book in them—and how to start writing it • ⏳ The truth about how long it really takes to write and publish a book • 💡 How intuition and dreams can guide the creative process • 🎭 Why humor and resilience are essential, even in life’s toughest moments • 📖 The power of writing as a healing tool—and how it can shape both personal and professional growth Linda’s wisdom is a reminder that the path to writing—and any creative endeavor—is not about perfection, but about persistence, passion, and trusting yourself. 🎧 Don’t miss this inspiring conversation with Linda Sivertsen. Tune in today! #WritingCommunity #Storytelling #PodcastEpisode #Inspiration #TrustTheProcess #PersonalGrowth #AuthorLife #BookWriting #Resilience #HealingThroughWriting

    1h 1m
  5. E116: Building Connections Through Movement and Mindfulness with Kashmira Gandhi

    JAN 28

    E116: Building Connections Through Movement and Mindfulness with Kashmira Gandhi

    In episode 116 of the Opportunity Knocks podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Kashmira Gandhi, co-owner of Body Balance Hawai‘i and a Lead Instructor at the studio’s premier location in Ala Moana Center, O‘ahu. Kashmira’s story is an incredible example of embracing change, building connections, and finding purpose through movement. From her roots in Rhode Island to her life in Hawai‘i, Kashmira has seamlessly blended her business expertise with her passion for wellness. A NASM Certified Personal Trainer and creator of the BodyCycle Method, Kashmira approaches fitness as a connection between happiness and health—embracing physical, emotional, relational, and community well-being. Known for her high-energy BodyCycle classes and her dedication to empowering others, she’s trained over 35 talented instructors and holds multiple certifications in cycling, Lagree, TRX, and Barre. This episode also celebrates an exciting new chapter: Opportunity Knocks is going Hawaiian! We’re thrilled to announce a special retreat in Hawai‘i, creating opportunities for meaningful collaborations with inspiring female entrepreneurs like Kashmira. The retreat will feature sound baths, yoga classes, and other incredible experiences, all in the spirit of fostering connections and building community with our sisters in Hawai‘i. During our conversation, Kashmira shared her inspiring transition from a corporate and production career—including stints with House Hunters International—to co-owning one of Hawai‘i’s most sought-after fitness studios. She offered invaluable insights on leadership, managing rapid growth, and creating a welcoming space where movement and joy intersect. Key highlights from our conversation: • 🌺 The unique challenges and rewards of running a boutique fitness studio in Hawai‘i, balancing high costs with community connection • 🤝 Why community and emotional connection are at the heart of her business philosophy • 🧘‍♀️ Integrating fitness, wellness, and recovery for a holistic approach to health • 🔑 The lessons Kashmira learned about setting boundaries and finding time for personal mindfulness Kashmira’s insights remind us of the importance of adaptability, grounding ourselves in the present, and creating spaces where people feel supported and seen. 🎧 Don’t miss this inspiring episode with Kashmira Gandhi and an inside look at what’s coming next for Opportunity Knocks in Hawai‘i. Tune in today!

    1h 1m
  6. E115: Taking Risks, Embracing Change, and Redefining Success with Chef Katie Chin

    JAN 7

    E115: Taking Risks, Embracing Change, and Redefining Success with Chef Katie Chin

    When Katie Chin left her high-powered corporate career to follow her creative instincts, she had no idea she was setting the stage for an incredible journey of discovery and reinvention. From navigating life as a chef, entrepreneur, and award-winning culinary personality to unveiling her family’s inspiring legacy through a one-woman show, Katie’s story is a testament to resilience, risk-taking, and authenticity. On Episode 115 of the Opportunity Knocks podcast, I sat down with Katie Chin, celebrated chef, author, and performer, for an inspiring conversation about embracing creativity, honoring her mother’s legacy, and the power of community in building a meaningful career. 🌟 Katie’s story reminds us all that it’s never too late to pursue the life you’re meant to live. We also explored… 💡 How leaving the corporate world led Katie to discover her true calling 🍳 Using food as a bridge for connection, healing, and cultural storytelling 🎭 The emotional process of writing and performing a one-woman show 🌍 Advocating for AAPI representation and empowerment in all facets of life 🎤 Why karaoke and creative expression are the ultimate forms of self-care …and so much more. 🔎 🎧 Ready to hear Katie’s incredible journey and how she inspires others to embrace their full potential? Tune in today!

    52 min
  7. E114: The Importance of Investment Equity, Venture Capital 101 and Burnout Recovery with Laurel Mintz

    12/12/2024

    E114: The Importance of Investment Equity, Venture Capital 101 and Burnout Recovery with Laurel Mintz

    When Laurel discovered that diverse founders deliver 25% higher returns despite receiving less than 2% of global venture funding, she knew she'd found her mission: transforming this disconnect into opportunity. 👍 On Episode 114 of the Opportunity Knocks podcast, I sat down with venture capitalist and entrepreneur Laurel Mintz for an eye-opening conversation about the untapped potential in diverse-led businesses and the surprising data that should be reshaping the investment landscape. 🌟 Today, as a high-achieving business leader, VC specialist, and two-time founder, Laurel shares new potential and opportunities with underrepresented minority groups who are ready to make their mark on the world. 🌍 And we discuss exactly how she does this in the episode.  We also discussed...  💡 How historically underserved founders have developed unique strengths through resourcefulness  💪 The compelling business case for investing in diverse-led companies  🌍 Creating new models that combine profit with purpose  📈 Breaking down the barriers for BIPOC, LGBTQIA+ community members and other underrepresented minority groups as they access venture capital  💗 How doing good and doing well can perfectly align in venture investing ...and much, much more. 🔎 🎧 Ready to discover the future of venture capital? Tune in today!

    49 min
  8. E113: The Color of Everything: Quieting the Mind for Mental Wellness with Cory Richards

    11/26/2024

    E113: The Color of Everything: Quieting the Mind for Mental Wellness with Cory Richards

    Happy, happy Thanksgiving Week! 🦃 I just had the best conversation with Cory Richards, renowned National Geographic photographer, mental health advocate, and professional climber on Episode 113 of the Opportunity Knocks Podcast 🎧 As I sit here sharing this episode, I just have to share that I’m constantly blown away with gratitude for the opportunities I have to meet amazing people like Cory—who transform and inspire the lives they touch (very possibly without them knowing it).  From the day we met, I knew we had a kindred connection, and I am so excited to share that here with you today. 🌟 Here’s a little bit about the episode ❣️ After being the first and only American to climb the 8000m Gasherbrum II in Pakistan, Cory soon received the designation of National Geographic Adventurer of the Year in recognition for his documentation and photography work on his summit. This eventually led to him summiting Mount Everest with his partner, Adrian Ballinger. ⛰️ These accomplishments are just the tip of the iceberg, however. Cory is a mental health advocate that has been breaking barriers and starting conversations for thousands around the world, prompted by his bipolar diagnosis at 14 to the recent release of his new book: The Color of Everything: A Journey to Quiet the Chaos Within. 📖  Diagnosed with bipolar disorder at 14, Cory has navigated the challenges and triumphs of hypomania while building a career that reflects his passion for authenticity and curiosity. He cuts to the core of the toughest mental health discussions we’re facing to date, detailing his experience as he broke free from the “brokenness” he felt at the time of diagnosis. 🧠 Cory has discovered that the diagnosis is just the start of the journey, rather than its endpoint. Rather than live in that definition of our bodily “data,” he believes that we can learn to thrive and rise above it—finding supportive tools and inspiration of our own making on our individual journeys…and that we can become better people as a result. 💪 Our conversation touched on several other powerful topics and questions, including:  💡 The cultural patterns that could be limiting our views about the potential to thrive in the aftermath of a mental diagnosis  🛑 The dangers and opportunities that come from black-and-white thinking—and the freedom that comes from going deeper into “shades of gray.”  🌍The satisfaction that comes from a quiet rebellion of NOT chasing “more,” across contexts  👏 The power of experiential learning and of reframing personal contexts and stories  💗 The fact that we simply are enough, as we are—and the power that comes from holding this belief as a core value in our lives …and much, much more. 🔎 Cory’s can’t-miss reflections on living authentically, breaking free from your limitations, and mental health are now available and LIVE on Episode 113 of Opportunity Knocks—now streaming! 🎙️

    1h 21m
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About

Welcome to Opportunity Knocks with Michelle Wolf of EmpowHer Purpose! Every Thursday, I feature a new guest female entrepreneur. These episodes are here to give you insight into how to take, make, create and evaluate opportunities. So listen in, knock knock, and open the door!

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