Claim OwnershipWomen Authors of Achievement (WAA) Podcast
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Women Authors of Achievement Podcast (WAA) celebrates the stories of extraordinary women who are shaping industries, breaking barriers, and redefining success. Each episode offers thought-provoking conversations with visionary leaders, entrepreneurs, creatives, and change-makers from diverse fields such as business, design, culture, beauty and social impact. Whether you’re seeking inspiration for your own journey or a window into the minds of remarkable women driving change, WAA is your source for authentic voices and powerful stories. Hosted by Daria Suvorova, join us as we explore what it truly means to achieve in today’s world.
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Today’s guest is Conny Zhang. She is a curious mind, a culture lover and the Head of Music at Spotify DACH. Her journey took her from writing newspaper columns as a teenager to shaping what millions of people listen to every day.Conny grew up with a deep love for stories. Reading constantly, playing music and always finishing her homework before letting herself unwind. That mix of discipline and imagination has stayed with her, whether she was studying in Shanghai and San Diego, interning at Universal Music, or building her career at Google and now Spotify.In this conversation, Conny opens up about launching her first scholarship, finding confidence through coaching and how she’s still learning to rest in a world that rarely slows down.Read more about the Women Authors of Achievement (WAA) Podcast via waa.berlin/aboutFollow us on Instagram & find us on LinkedInSubscribe to our newsletter via waa.berlin/newsletter
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Today’s guest is Lisa Währer, powerhouse in German football, and the co-founder and managing director of FC Viktoria Berlin. From her early days as a footballer in Hamburg to building campaigns at Jung von Matt Sports and OneFootball, Lisa has always worked with strong purpose in mind. Now, alongside a team of five other women, she’s leading one of Berlin’s boldest football clubs, which was promoted to the 2nd Bundesliga. In this conversation, Lisa opens up about what it really means to be the only woman in the room, how gut instinct shaped her career more than any five-year plan, and why visibility for women in sports is still a fight worth showing up for.This live edition of the show has been powered by Ancient + Brave, a UK science-based wellness brand that brings a holistic approach to well-being. Treating our live audience to the signature True Collagen which helps with a glowing skin, offers connective tissues, joint and bone support. Read more about the Women Authors of Achievement (WAA) Podcast via waa.berlin/aboutFollow us on Instagram & find us on LinkedInSubscribe to our newsletter via waa.berlin/newsletter
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Welcome to a very special live edition of the Women Authors of Achievement Podcast, hosted for the first time in UK, right here at the Amano Hotel Skybar in London, overlooking Covent Garden. My guest today is Nikki Trott, strategist, podcast host and author of her new book Sacred Business. Her story bridges two worlds: the ambitious drive of London’s fashion and branding industry, and the expansive, intuitive energy she discovered in Berlin.Nikki started out leading global fashion and lifestyle campaigns, working with big names across London and New York. But at some point, success as she knew it started to feel off. Thats when she made a radical choice, she left it all behind to follow a different kind of calling.In this conversation, we talk about what it means to walk away from conventional success, how Berlin helped her reconnect with her intuition, and why business can, and should, be an expression of who we are at our core.If you’re in a moment of transition or simply craving more purpose in your work, hear this episode!Read more about the Women Authors of Achievement (WAA) Podcast via waa.berlin/aboutFollow us on Instagram & find us on LinkedInSubscribe to our newsletter via waa.berlin/newsletter
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Today’s guest is Jen Florin, co-founder of Cookies Events & Catering and someone who’s been shaping Berlin’s cultural and culinary scene from behind the curtain for almost two decades. But titles aside, Jen is a true master of atmosphere. She knows how to turn a room into an experience you’ll never forget.We talked about the art of curation (yes, the lighting, the playlists, the menus), but also the mindset. Jen opened up about her early years growing up in West Germany, organizing parties in her parents' light studio, and how a teenage love for club culture led her all the way to building an international agency, hosting Netflix, and throwing over 100 events a year.We also speak about creative partnership and the beautiful chaos of making things happen!And if you love this episode, leave a review, send it to a friend, or just hit replay.Read more about the Women Authors of Achievement (WAA) Podcast via waa.berlin/aboutFollow us on Instagram & find us on LinkedInSubscribe to our newsletter via waa.berlin/newsletter
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My guest is Katharin Ahrend, co-managing director of the Clubcommission Berlin, a pivotal force in protecting and shaping the city’s club scene. Born in East Germany just before the fall of the Wall, Katharin grew up navigating the grey zones of youth culture, rave spaces, and political shifts.We talk about everything from abandoned buildings turned dance floors to her journey into cultural policy. Katharin opens up about leadership in male-dominated spaces and her deep-rooted belief that club culture is culture. Beautiful, political, and essential, especially in times of division and crisis.If you’ve ever danced all night and felt something shift or wondered what it takes to protect that freedom, this episode is for you.And if you love this episode, leave a review, send it to a friend, or just hit replay.Read more about the Women Authors of Achievement (WAA) Podcast via waa.berlin/aboutFollow us on Instagram & find us on LinkedInSubscribe to our newsletter via waa.berlin/newsletter
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Today I’m sitting down with someone I’ve known for quite some time. Watching her grow, build, reinvent, and create from the inside out has been inspiring, and honestly, a little wild, in the best way. Cynthia Mensah-Neglokpe is the founder of clicqui and KORE. In this conversation, we talked about starting over, more than once. About what burnout really looks like when you’re the one everyone counts on. And how community, when done right, can quite literally bring you back to yourself.You’ll hear how Cynthia went from managing luxury brands to building grassroots spaces in four cities, all while figuring out how to protect her energy and build something that actually lasts. If you’ve ever thought about creating something real, something that connects people and still keeps you whole. This one’s for you.Let’s get into it. And if you love this episode, leave a review, send it to a friend, or just hit replay.Read more about the Women Authors of Achievement (WAA) Podcast via waa.berlin/aboutFollow us on Instagram & find us on LinkedInSubscribe to our newsletter via waa.berlin/newsletter
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Today’s guest is Marina Paulenka, exhibition director of Fotografiska Berlin and a fearless voice in contemporary photography. Born in Yugoslavia before the war, Marina’s story is one of resilience. From growing up during conflict to building a global platform for artists, often without institutional support.We talked about using photography as a tool for empowerment, activism, and storytelling. Marina shared what it really takes to launch a festival from scratch, the importance of making space for underrepresented voices, and how art can drive real societal change.Let’s dive in. And if you enjoy this conversation, don’t forget to rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform.Read more about the Women Authors of Achievement (WAA) Podcast via waa.berlin/aboutFollow us on Instagram & find us on LinkedInSubscribe to our newsletter via waa.berlin/newsletter
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Today’s episode marks an exciting milestone: it’s the official launch of our year-long partnership with flaconi, Germany’s leading online retailer for beauty and perfume. Flaconi stands for more than just beauty products, it’s a brand that celebrates diversity, mental well-being, empowerment, and culture. Values that align deeply with what we do here at WAA. And to celebrate this moment, we’ve planned this special edition of the show.Alexandra Szarmach is flaconi’s CHRO and Managing Director. With a background that spans sales and HR at global giants like Sephora, Alexandra brings both business savvy and a deep, human-centered leadership style. She opened up about what it means to lead through values, to support mental health in the workplace in tangible ways, and how she is creating inclusive space for women to rise across industries.This conversation goes beyond titles. It's about real leadership, the messy parts of growth, and the strength it takes to build inclusive, thriving cultures.Read more about the Women Authors of Achievement (WAA) Podcast via waa.berlin/aboutFollow us on Instagram & find us on LinkedInSubscribe to our newsletter via waa.berlin/newsletter
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Viviane Sassen doesn’t just take photographs, she creates entire worlds. Known for her dreamlike use of light and shadow, she moves seamlessly between fashion, fine art, and documentary photography, always pushing the boundaries of visual storytelling, often exploring themes of identity, memory, and mortality.In this conversation, we’ll uncover the influences that shaped her artistic vision, from her childhood in Kenya to her fascination with abstraction. Whether you’re an artist, a storyteller, or simply curious about the way we see the world, this conversation will leave you looking at photography and life through a new lens.If you enjoy this conversation, don’t forget to rate and review on your favorite podcast platform. I love reading your thoughts! Now, let’s dive in.Read more about the Women Authors of Achievement (WAA) Podcast via waa.berlin/aboutFollow us on Instagram & find us on LinkedInSubscribe to our newsletter via waa.berlin/newsletter
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I’m joined by Maria von Scheel-Plessen, who traveled all the way from Munich to meet me at Fotografiska’s cozy Bar Clara—bringing luxury straight to the show. As a senior marketing leader for a top luxury brand, Maria is a powerhouse in her field, blending strategy, tech, and business. But her path wasn’t conventional. Instead of stepping into her family’s 300-year-old legacy, she carved her own path—moving across the world, taking bold risks, and redefining what leadership looks like.In this episode, we get real about the highs and lows of leading—navigating self-doubt, setting boundaries, and making big career moves. Maria also shares insights on the future of luxury, from shifting consumer habits to why personalization is everything. And of course, we talk about the power of trusting yourself—because sometimes, the best strategy isn’t just knowing the market, it’s knowing you.Read more about the Women Authors of Achievement (WAA) Podcast via waa.berlin/aboutFollow us on Instagram & find us on LinkedInSubscribe to our newsletter via waa.berlin/newsletter
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This episode's guest is Annett Kuhlmann, co-founder of Marsano—a brand that redefined floristry in Berlin. Annett’s journey is fascinating. With training in photography from the Ostkreuzschule and interior design at St. Martin’s, her unique eye for beauty is what sets Marsano apart. Over the past 20 years, she and her co-founders, Katrin and Andreas, have built Marsano into something extraordinary—a perfect blend of creativity, sustainability, and collaboration.In this episode, we talk about her early inspirations, the challenges of running a creative flower business, and how Marsano’s distinctive aesthetic came to life. We’ll also explore her personal favorites—flowers, colors, and the joy (and challenges!) of staying creative.Sit back, relax, and get ready to be inspired by Annett’s story and the world of Marsano. Let’s dive in! Read more about the Women Authors of Achievement (WAA) Podcast via waa.berlin/aboutFollow us on Instagram & find us on LinkedInSubscribe to our newsletter via waa.berlin/newsletter
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Today, I’m thrilled to sit down with someone truly inspiring—Leyla Piedayesh, the founder and creative heart behind Lala Berlin.For over two decades, Leyla has been at the forefront of redefining contemporary fashion, blending Berlin’s cosmopolitan energy with her Persian heritage to create a brand that’s as bold as it is personal. From navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship and steering through turbulent times to making powerful political statements through her iconic kufiya-inspired designs, Leyla’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and purpose.Leyla opens up about the personal and professional lessons that shaped her legacy—her reflections on trust and leadership, the emotional impact of hormonal shifts, and her vision for empowering women through her work.If you enjoy this episode, don’t forget to rate it on Spotify or leave a review on Apple Podcasts. Read more about the Women Authors of Achievement (WAA) Podcast via waa.berlin/aboutFollow us on Instagram & find us on LinkedInSubscribe to our newsletter via waa.berlin/newsletter
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In this episode, we’re diving into a topic that’s not just about living longer but living better: longevity. My guest is the amazing Dr. Kati Ernst, co-founder of ooia, a brand that has transformed the period market in Germany and she is now exploring how to have healthier, more vibrant lives at any age.Kati’s journey is nothing short of inspiring—from consulting for luxury brands to building a purpose-driven company and launching a podcast about healthy aging. We’ll talk about the turning points that shaped her approach to health, how longevity influences her life and work, and what we can all learn about crafting a life full of energy and meaning.If you enjoy this episode, don’t forget to rate it on Spotify or leave a review on Apple Podcasts. Let’s get started!Read more about the Women Authors of Achievement (WAA) Podcast via waa.berlin/aboutFollow us on Instagram & find us on LinkedInSubscribe to our newsletter via waa.berlin/newsletter
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This time around, I’m taking you with me to the Merz b. Schwanen flagship store in Berlin. Picture this: a rainy November evening, yet inside the store, we are welcomed by the whole crew into their world of timeless design. I sit down with Gitta Plotnicki, the co-owner and creative director of the brand, to dive into this fascinating story.Merz b. Schwanen, a brand that dates back to 1911, has been revived in the most inspiring way. Gitta and her husband, Peter, have brought new life to century-old loopwheel machines—affectionately nicknamed their “gentle old ladies”—to create sustainable, high-quality clothing. But it’s not just about honoring history. From discovering a Henley T-shirt at a Berlin flea market to creating a viral sensation thanks to The Bear, Gitta shared how they balance tradition with modernity while staying true to their craft.In this episode Gitta reminds us that passion, patience, and the people you surround yourself with are key to building something meaningful. Let’s dive into her incredible journey!And don't forget to rate and review the show on your favorite streaming platform.Read more about the Women Authors of Achievement (WAA) Podcast via waa.berlin/aboutFollow us on Instagram & find us on LinkedInSubscribe to our newsletter via waa.berlin/newsletter
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In this episode, recorded live at the intimate Nomi Winebar in Kreuzberg, we dive into how Anahita Sadighi is reimagining the traditional art gallery, merging art, culture, and music to create spaces that challenge stereotypes and foster deep connection. Anahita’s energy is contagious as she opens up about reimagining what an art gallery can be, turning it into a space for connection, creativity, and dialogue. We even dive into her new secret after-party series called, The Loft, where art and music come together in an intimate and exciting way.This episode is full of powerful insights and inspiration, so I hope you enjoy listening as much as I enjoyed interviewing Anahita!And don't forget to rate and review the show on your favorite podcast platform.Read more about the Women Authors of Achievement (WAA) Podcast via waa.berlin/aboutFollow us on Instagram & find us on LinkedInSubscribe to our newsletter via waa.berlin/newsletter
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From growing up in Berlin with a multicultural background to creating timeless spaces that balance opulence and minimalism, the story of Ester Bruzkus is filled with inspiration. We’ll dive into how her early love for architecture grew into a celebrated career, what it’s like breaking barriers as a woman in the male dominated area, and her passion for bold colors, and the balance she strikes between trends and timelessness in her designs.If you enjoy this episode, don’t forget to rate it on Spotify or leave a review on Apple Podcasts. Let’s dive in!Read more about the Women Authors of Achievement (WAA) Podcast via https://waa.berlin/aboutFollow us on Instagram & find us on LinkedInSubscribe to our newsletter via https://waa.berlin/newsletter
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Milka Loff Fernandes started her career as a presenter at the music channel VIVA TV in 1999. What remained a secret for a long time was that during this colorful period, the peak of Milka’s popularity, she also struggled with depression, eating disorders, and later epilepsy. In 2004, she decided to withdraw from public life and embarked on a "healing journey". Back then she looked for means and ways that enabled her to confront the madness called everyday life, and now, nearly twenty years later, she has become acquainted with mental health hygiene practices that we talk about in this episode. Tune in to hear her story and learnings that Milka acquired also as a practicing Buddhist.If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to rate it on Spotify or leave a review on Apple Podcasts.Read more about the Women Authors of Achievement (WAA) Podcast via https://waa.berlin/aboutFollow us on Instagram & find us on LinkedInSubscribe to our newsletter via https://waa.berlin/newsletter
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Today we would like to introduce you to Hila Limar, chairwoman of the non-profit organization Visions for Children and co-founder of the jewelry brand SEVAR Studios, which aims to enable girls and women in Kabul to train as goldsmiths. After years of voluntary work for the Hamburg-based association, in 2018 Hila gave up her job as an architect to devoted herself full-time to her vision. She is working on improving learning conditions and the quality of education in schools in crisis areas, including Hila’s native Afghanistan. Enjoy this conversation and getting to know Hila. And make sure you check out our latest events and news via waa.berlin. And if you enjoy the show make sure to rate it on Spotify or leave a review on Apple Podcasts.Read more about the Women Authors of Achievement (WAA) Podcast via https://waa.berlin/aboutFollow us on Instagram & find us on LinkedInSubscribe to our newsletter via https://waa.berlin/newsletter
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With this episode all roads are leading to Torstraße here in Berlin. Julia Winkels shares some great insights into cultural marketing with her renowned agency BOLD, and talks about the most hyped match brand of Germany - Matchasome which she founded back in 2022 with Nina Bröer! This conversation is all about harvesting green gold, building timely brands, and how Julia turned her passion for matcha into a successful brand and a business success story that Berlin has been craving for a long time.And remember, if you enjoy today's episode, don't forget to rate and review the podcast on your favorite podcast platform.Read more about the Women Authors of Achievement (WAA) Podcast via https://waa.berlin/aboutFollow us on Instagram & find us on LinkedInSubscribe to our newsletter via https://waa.berlin/newsletter
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Who are the "forgotten" beauty customers and what is hair and scalp neutrality? Let's decode in today's episode. Founded by Nana Addison, Ancient Beauty is more than just another beauty brand. As the mainstream hair care brands overlook diverse hair textures and scalp conditions, Nana advocates for inclusivity and recognition of all beauty customers. Nana shared her impressive founder journey, the economic and agricultural impact of African Beauty, the importance of indigenous botanical ingredients from baobab to kigelia. We also learn about tiger nuts! Get ready to unlock the secrets of African botanicals and hear the story from one of Europe's most influential women in the Startup and Venture Capital Space - Nana Addison.Read more about the Women Authors of Achievement (WAA) Podcast via https://waa.berlin/aboutFollow us on Instagram & find us on LinkedInSubscribe to our newsletter via https://waa.berlin/newsletter
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