Powered by Authenticity

Emily Carlson

Powered by Authenticity is more than a podcast—it’s a movement. We spotlight voices that are breaking barriers and rewriting the rules of leadership, success, and identity. Through real conversations with bold leaders and changemakers, we uncover the stories behind resilience, reinvention, and leading with heart. If you believe in showing up fully and forging your own path, this space was made for you.

  1. Caught Up in Purpose with Sarah Barnes-Humphrey

    5D AGO

    Caught Up in Purpose with Sarah Barnes-Humphrey

    In this episode of Powered by Authenticity, I’m joined by Sarah Barnes-Humphrey — podcast host of Let’s Talk Supply Chain and Blended, industry advocate, entrepreneur, and author who has built a powerful platform centered on storytelling, inclusion, and creating space formeaningful conversations. With more than 25 years in supply chain and logistics, Sarah has evolved her career into media, advocacy, and community-building work that amplifies voices often underrepresented in industry spaces. We talked about her journey into podcasting, how advocacynaturally became part of her work, and why creating environments where people feel seen, heard, and valued matters so much — something I know we both caredeeply about. That thread of connection and authenticity really runs throughout this conversation. A meaningful part of our discussion centers on Sarah’s book,I Buried Her in a French Press. It’s an honest exploration ofconfidence, self-worth, and the ongoing process of rediscovering your voice — something many of us navigate throughout different seasons of life and leadership. The conversation around the book felt especially real and reflective, highlighting how storytelling helps people feel less alone and more empowered in their own journeys. We also discussed her nonprofit initiative, the BlendedPledge, which helps increase diversity on industry stages by supporting speakers with travel funding and access to opportunity. It’s a powerful reminder that inclusion often requires intentional action — not just good intentions. This is one of those conversations that leaves you thinking— about leadership, authenticity, advocacy, and the impact of simply creating space for real voices to be heard. Thank you, Sarah, for such an engaging, fun episode of the show! Links to find additional information on Sarah, and her work: SarahBarnes-Humphrey | LinkedIn Sarah Barnes-Humphrey – Sarah Barnes-HumphreyBuried Her in a French Press: A Memoir About Finding My Voice and the Power of Being Heard Instagram- Sarah Barnes-Humphrey   Sarah’s Bio: Sarah Barnes-Humphrey is a best-selling author,entrepreneur, and fierce advocate for self-worth and authentic leadership. She’s best known as the founder and host of Let’s TalkSupply Chain™, one of the top 1% most downloaded podcasts globally — but her journey to becoming a voice in the industry didn’t come easily. After working in her family business for over a decade, Sarah lost her job, sold her house, and found herself at a personal and professional crossroads. Instead of staying silent, she picked up a mic. Since then, she’s built a powerful platform dedicated toamplifying voices that often go unheard — particularly women and underrepresented communities. Through her Women in Supply Chain™ series, Blended podcast, and nonprofit Blended Pledge, Sarah continues to create safespaces where vulnerability leads to real transformation. Now, she’s sharing her personal story in a brand-new way —through her debut memoir and #1 Amazon Bestseller, I Buried Her in a French Press. The book is a raw, honest reflection on identity, loss, and finding your voice after you’ve lost it. It’s a story of self-worth, resilience, and learning that you are your best advocate. Whether she’s on stage, behind the mic, or writing hertruth, Sarah is committed to helping others feel seen, heard, and empowered to tell their own story — unapologetically.

    44 min
  2. Food for You & (A)I with Tanya Maximova

    FEB 6

    Food for You & (A)I with Tanya Maximova

    In this episode of Powered by Authenticity, Emilysits down with Tanya Maximova, founder of IngrediLens, to talk about how personal challenges, resilience, and emerging technology can come together to solve real-world problems. IngrediLens is an AI-powered app designed to help peoplebetter understand what’s in their food by analyzing ingredient labels through image recognition and intelligent data processing. The goal is simple: make it easier for people to quickly identify allergens, sensitivities, or ingredientsthey may want to avoid — something that’s increasingly important when roughly 38% of people report some form of food allergy, intolerance, or ingredient-relatedconcern. For Tanya, this wasn’t just a business idea. The app grewout of her own family’s experience trying to identify her husband’s food allergy — a process that highlighted just how difficult it can be to interpret ingredient lists and make confident food choices. Beyond the technology, this conversation explores what ittakes to rebuild professionally, step into entrepreneurship, and bring a meaningful solution to market. Tanya shares candidly about persistence, adapting through change, and the mindset required to keep moving forward whenthe path isn’t always clear. Emily also adds her own perspective navigating foodallergies, making this a practical discussion about transparency, innovation, and how AI can be used in ways that genuinely improve everyday life. Thank you, Tanya, for sharing your journey, and for bringinga much-needed app into the world. Thank you for bringing forward a tool that will help everyone control their health and wellbeing. Be sure to sign-up for the mailing list and get on the waiting list so you know when the app is released! Links to IngrediLens and Tanya: TanyaMaximova, MBA | LinkedIn IngrediLens About Tanya: Tanya Maximova is an Engineer and MBA with a passion tosolve complex problems, ambition to have an impact and commitment to bring ideas to life. With over 15 years ofglobal experience as Senior Delivery Lead in Digital transformation with a demonstrated historyof working in a broad selection of manufacturing, trade, service industries and financial institutions as well as cross-industry business transformations. Leading Projects and Programs ranging from Six Sigma quality improvement to ERP implementations, streamlining the Digital landscapeof businesses and increasing their profitability and efficiency. Through her career, she has developed expertise in large scale Business & Technological transformation, Operationalimprovement, Change Management, Organizational and Business Optimization.Continuously searching for innovative technical solutions to everyday problems, she founded an AI Health Tech startup called IngrediLens (www.ingredilens.com). It is an AI enabled mobile platform designed for individuals with food allergies, intolerances, and dietary restrictions, enabling them to discover new products and enjoy food with confidence. This was an opportunity to build something that makes a difference and empowers people who live with food restrictions and seems like the purpose-driven initiative she is always striving for. The role of a founder required her to go through several mindset shifts, has put to a test all her skills and knowledge, but also created a green field opportunity to start something of impact she truly cared about.

    36 min
  3. Cutting the Mustard with Luke Desmond of Webers Brand

    JAN 30

    Cutting the Mustard with Luke Desmond of Webers Brand

    In this episode of Powered by Authenticity, Emily isjoined by Luke Desmond, Vice President of Weber’s Brand, for a conversation that blends legacy, leadership, and a whole lot of Buffalo pride. Luke shares his unexpected path into the family business —from studying biology and considering a career in medicine to stepping into a 100+ year-old, iconic Buffalo brand. What unfolds is a powerful story of resilience: a company that once thrived, nearly disappeared, and was ultimately rebuilt through grit, community support, and a deep respect for the people behind the scenes. Together, they explore what it’s really like to carry afamily legacy forward, the realities of running a small but mighty manufacturing operation, and how Weber’s has evolved by embracing data, e-commerce, social media, and creative partnerships — all while staying true to its roots. Luke also offers an honest look at entrepreneurship, transparency in leadership, and why culture and long-tenured employees are at the heart of Weber’s success. And because it wouldn’t be a Buffalo conversation withoutit, the episode kicks off with Bills talk, tailgate drinks, and why food is one of the greatest connectors we have. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in: ·        Family-owned businesses and succession ·        Building modern brands on legacy foundations ·        Leadership, culture, and operational efficiency ·        Buffalo entrepreneurship and community pride Thank you, Luke, for such a great conversation. Weabsolutely loved our conversation and can’t wait to visit Weber’s in-person this Spring! Links to Luke and the Weber’s Brand: LukeDesmond | LinkedIn Weber's Brand About Luke: I’m a fourth-generation steward of Weber’s Brand, afamily-owned food company proudly rooted in Buffalo, New York since 1922. Best known for Weber’s Brand Horseradish Mustard — the #1 mustard in Western New York for more than a century — our brand has been built on premium quality,consistency, and deep community trust, all established by the three generations before me.Today, my focus is on honoring that legacy while modernizing how a 100+ year-old CPG brand grows. From e-commerce expansion and retail partnerships to foodservice relationships and brand storytelling, I work at the intersection of tradition and innovation.I’m passionate about:• Growing my fourth-generation family business to levels none thought possible• Scaling CPG products across retail, foodservice, and e-commerce pathways• Strategic partnerships and local collaborations• Preserving legacy while driving modern growthIf you’re interested in heritage brands, CPG strategy, or creative partnerships that really work, I’m always open to a conversation.

    37 min
  4. Leveraging Your Strengths with Lynne Thornton

    JAN 23

    Leveraging Your Strengths with Lynne Thornton

    In this episode of Powered by Authenticity, EmilyCarlson is joined once again by leadership coach Lynne Thornton for a timely conversation about self-awareness, leadership growth, and making intentional career decisions as we head into a new year. Lynne shares her journey from decades in corporatetechnology leadership to launching Elevate Advisory Services and explains how she uses the Hogan Personality Assessment to help leaders better understand their reputation, values, strengths, and potential blind spots. Together, Emily and Lynne break down how Hogan works as a“mirror and map” — showing how others experience you and helping you chart a clearer, more aligned path forward. Emily also shares insights from her own Hogan results, sparking an honest discussion about ambition, altruism,entrepreneurship, and what it really means to lead with both heart and results. If you’re at a career crossroads, feeling stuck or overlooked, or simply want to become a more intentional and self-aware leader, this episode offers both insight and practical perspective to help you move forward with confidence. Thank you, Lynne, for joining us on the show! We loved everyminute of it!! About Lynne: Lynne Thornton comes to coaching with 35 years of experience in the IT distribution channel. Passionate about leadership and mentorship, Lynne has coached professionals at all levels and has seen firsthand the transformative impact of effective coaching. I know what it takes to developleaders who drive both personal and business success. I’ve built career development programs that increased engagement, strengthened retention, and expanded leadership pipelines—while also delivering overachievement of business objectives. Inspired by this, she pursued certifications in LeadershipCoaching and HOGAN Personality Assessments to deepen her ability to support and elevate others. My passion is helping people gain clarity on what’s possible, build the skills and confidence to get there, and create their own cultures ofsuccess along the way. I believe the best leaders don’t just grow themselves—they grow others and elevate entire teams.    Connect with Lynne: LynneThornton | LinkedIn lynne@elevate-advisory-services.com Mobile: 716-316-1358

    39 min
  5. Fueled by Authenticity with James Oliver

    JAN 19

    Fueled by Authenticity with James Oliver

    This conversation is a great reminder that the best ideasoften come from trying to solve your own problem. That’s exactly how Atlas Bars — and this journey with James Oliver — began. James joins me for a thoughtful, easy conversation aboutfood, endurance training, and what it really looks like to build something from the ground up. What started as a personal need — wanting better, cleaner fuel for his body — turned into making bars in his kitchen with his mom, andeventually into a brand that now reaches millions of people. We talk about how his curiosity about nutrition started at ayoung age, how training and studying abroad in China helped shape the idea, and why he’s always believed that taste, ingredients, and how you feel after eating something all matter. We also get into: Why so many “protein bars” are really just sugar bars in disguiseWhat it takes to grow a product without losing what made it good in the first placeWhy focusing on building something truly useful beats chasing hype or trendsAnd, of course, a little food talk, wings, and some friendly Patriots vs. Bills banterThis is a grounded, honest conversation about curiosity,consistency, and building something you’re genuinely proud to stand behind. Thank you, James, for such an engaging conversation. Weloved hearing about your journey and your product!! Where to find additional information on James and AtlasBars: Instagram -Atlas Bars Amazon- Atlas Bars James Oliver | LinkedInBio: James Oliver is the founder of Atlas, a company dedicated to providing clean, convenient, high-protein nutrition. He’spassionate about helping others unlock their full potential by fueling their bodies with intention and purpose.

    49 min
  6. Eat. Drink. Be a Bills Fan! with Buddy in da Basement

    JAN 9

    Eat. Drink. Be a Bills Fan! with Buddy in da Basement

    If you’re from Buffalo, you already know - we don’t justshow up together. And if you’re not from here, you’re about to see exactly what makes this community so special. That spirit is exactly what this episode with Buddy in da Basement (a/k/a Chris Panepinto) is all about. In this high-energy, fun, and genuinely insightful conversation, I sit down with one of Buffalo’s favorite content creators totalk about what it really takes to turn creativity, consistency, and a whole lot of Bills Mafia energy into a thriving community. In just two years and nearly 700 pieces of content,Buddy in da Basement has built something special — not just a following, but a place where food, tailgates, crazy cocktails, costumes, and pure Buffalo energy collide in the best possible way. We talk about: How Buddy became a character and why Buffalo embraces creativityThe real work behind showing up consistentlyFinding your niche without losing your personalityWhy community will always beat algorithmsThe creator grind behind the scenesAnd of course… tailgates, traditions, and unapologetic Buffalo Bills loveThis episode is a reminder that Buffalo doesn’t just createfans — we create families. And the best content doesn’t come from chasing trends… it comes from showing up as yourself and inviting people along for the ride. And yes — we confirm: It is Buffalo Bills weatherThe Bills are winning the Super BowlAnd you absolutely should be following Buddy in da Basement.If you love Buffalo, love creators who keep it real, or justwant a genuinely fun listen — this one’s for you! Thank you, Buddy in da Basement, for such an engaging, fun episode. And a shout out to our location sponsor, Labatt Brew House for hosting our episode!! Delicious beer and great conversation …what an amazing night!! Go Bills! Links to Buddy: Buddy in da Basement Facebook - Buddyin da Basement About Buddy: Buddy in da Basement started just about two years ago as asimple idea — bring joy, laughter, and Buffalo Bills hype to the internet. Buddy celebrates three things: Eat. Drink. Be a Bills Fan!  Self-proclaimed unofficial bar master of Buffalo - mixes up a different chaotic cocktail every week; talks proud about Buffalo food spot - mostly pizza but has dabbled into other foods.  Finally, Buddy tries to create some ridiculous antic that is relatable to Bills fans bringing our community together. Buddy is a character I created — upbeat, passionate,ridiculous in all the right ways and always aiming to spread positivity. He’s never trying to offend, argue, or be controversial. The goal is simple: give people a smile and an escape from the heaviness of everyday life.

    47 min
  7. Letting the Scars Show with Erin Bailey

    JAN 6

    Letting the Scars Show with Erin Bailey

    “I show my scars so that others know they can heal.” In this episode I am joined by Erin Bailey-Boyes. Erin is afitness and mindset coach from Muskoka, Ontario, but her story is about so much more than training plans or physical transformation. In this deeply honest and courageous episode, Erin opens up about her journey through grief, anxiety, addiction, and recovery — and what it really looks like to choose yourself, even when it feels impossibly hard. We talk about her early life, how she found her way into fitness and coaching, and the pressure so many of us feel to appear “strong” and “put together” while quietly struggling behind the scenes. Erin shares her battle with alcoholism, the devastating loss of her partner in the line of duty, andthe long, brave road toward learning healthier ways to cope with pain, stress, and fear. What makes this conversation so powerful is Erin’s willingness to be fully seen. She doesn’t share from a place of perfection — she shares from a place of truth. From the moments she used alcohol to numb the pain, to the moment she realized she deserved more from her life, Erin’s story is a reminderthat healing is not linear, but it is always possible. This episode is about:             : Choosing authenticity over appearances                : Learning to sit with your pain instead ofrunning from it                : Redefining strength, resilience, andself-compassion : Understanding that asking for help is notweakness — it’s courage : And remembering that no matter how dark thingsfeel, your story is not over If you or someone you love is struggling, I hope this conversation reminds you that you are not alone — and that there is real hope on the other side of the hardest seasons. Erin, thank you for your bravery, honesty, and your heart. Yourwillingness to share your story will help more people than you may ever realize. About Erin: Erin Bailey is a mom, fitness & nutrition coach, studio owner,and mindset mentor who will celebrate 12 years of sobriety this January. Erin’s journey has taught her that true transformation begins when you embrace yourstruggles, learn true self love and stop hiding from your own potential. With 27 years of coaching experience and multiple awards — including Most Influential Business Person of 2023 — Erin’s passion is to inspire others to live their best lives through strength, confidence, discovering their spiritand finding joy in both healing and health. She brings a grounded, real-life perspective to recovery, resilience, and personal transformation. Links to Erin: Erin Bailey Body by Design -Fitness, Personal Trainer, Gym

    1h 8m
  8. Powered by Observation with Dr. Don Barden

    12/29/2025

    Powered by Observation with Dr. Don Barden

    There are episodes that feel meaningful… and then there areepisodes that feel truly inspiring. My time with Dr. Don Bardenwas one of those. Don brings warmth, humility, joy, and profound wisdom into every conversation. Together, we talked about gratitude over fear, presence over pressure, and what it truly means to lead with heart in both life andbusiness. We explored his work through The Perfect Plan and spenttime with his newest book, Here Come the Girls — a powerful,research-backed, deeply honoring celebration of women in leadership. In this groundbreaking work, Don reveals a transformative vision for the future: a world where women step fully into global leadership, reshaping economies,organizations, and cultures for the better. Drawing from years of doctoral research and real-world experience, Don shows how women naturally create more engaged, compassionate, and high-performing environments through empathy, humanconnection, and empowerment. But this book isn’t just a tribute — it’s a call to action. Donchallenges outdated leadership models and reminds businesses that the future belongs to organizations rooted in relevance, relationships, empathy, and humanity. His belief in the brilliance and rising strength of women is deeplypassionate, incredibly hopeful, and grounded in data-driven truth. And because Don leads with generosity and heart, he is offering free digital copies of his books — including Here Come the Girls — to listeners who reach out and share that they heard about him on Powered by Authenticity. That kindness alone speaks volumes about who he is. This episode is full of heart. Full of belief in people. Full ofhope for the future. If you need encouragement, inspiration, and something beautiful for your spirit — this conversation will meet you there. 💛 Thank you so much Don for an inspiring and empowering episode of the show! Links to Don: Don Barden, Ph.D. | LinkedIn Don Barden |Here Come the Girls: A Celebration of Why Women Will Take Over Global Leadership In 2028: Barden Ph.D., Donald W.: 9798306908007: Amazon.com: BooksAmazon.com: The Perfect Plan: A Study that Reveals the Secret Behind the World's Elite Leaders, Sales and Marketing Professionals: 0000692657797: Barden, Don: BooksAbout Dr. Don Barden:Dr. Don Barden is a globally recognized expert in leadership and decision-making, with over 30 years of transformative leadership in the financial industry. Named one of North America’s Top 30 Most Transformational Leaders by John Maxwell and 2018 Entrepreneur of the Year by the AtlantaBusiness Chronicle, Don’s innovative approaches have reshaped organizations across the U.S. and internationally. He holds a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership and BehavioralEconomics, an MBA in Global Technology Management and International Business, and a BBA in Economics and Finance, with additional cybersecurity certification from Harvard. His “unfair advantage” leadership research debunks outdatedleadership myths and helps organizations unlock creative potential, transform culture, and achieve record-setting performance — all delivered with humor, humanity, and intellectual rigor. Dr. Barden also serves through significant philanthropic work,supporting mental health, youth leadership, inclusion initiatives, and providing scholarships and care access for those in need. His groundbreaking research, including Here Come the Girls and the Shift Happens series, highlights the extraordinary impact of women in leadership and thefuture of human-centered organizations.

    54 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Powered by Authenticity is more than a podcast—it’s a movement. We spotlight voices that are breaking barriers and rewriting the rules of leadership, success, and identity. Through real conversations with bold leaders and changemakers, we uncover the stories behind resilience, reinvention, and leading with heart. If you believe in showing up fully and forging your own path, this space was made for you.