Chapters by PROPEL

If you aren’t lucky enough to know @leatromano_dnp, this is your chance! Leat is a nurse practitioner and Doctor of Nursing Practice who has built a life rooted in purpose, balance, and impact. This week on Chapters by @propelnetwork, she talks to our host @melaniekule about how she found her calling, the defining moments that shaped her, and how she pours her whole heart into a profession devoted to healing. With authenticity and humor, Leat shares what it looks like to pursue a career she loves while juggling motherhood, community, and personal growth. Tune in to be inspired by her wisdom and the beautiful legacy she’s building.This episode was brought to you by Mona Haddad A"H School of Nursing

We’re so excited to welcome the one and only @joycechabb — better known as the Upper East Side Mommy — to the Chapters by @propelnetwork podcast! 🎙️ Tune in this week as Joyce talks to our host @melaniekule about how she became a viral content creator and built her brand from the ground up. She also opens up about motherhood, purpose, and keeping her priorities straight no matter how busy life gets. Joyce also has fantastic advice for anyone looking to grow in the world of social media or just looking to do anything new! This is an inspiring, fun, and real conversation you won’t want to miss! ✨This episode was brought to you by the Chella Safra School of Communications 

Meet Regine Ashkenazie @regineash, an anxiety therapist from @longislandbehavioral and devoted mom who’s made it her mission to help others navigate the overwhelming world of anxiety. In this episode, she talks to our host @melaniekule about her own path — how she built a career in therapy while raising a family — and breaks down what anxiety really is, how it shows up in adults and kids, and her practical advice for knowing when it might be time to reach out for help. Whether you’re a parent, a professional, or someone who wants to understand your own mind better, this episode will leave you feeling more educated and empowered.Full episode drops Tuesday on all streaming platforms.This episode is brought to you by the Ellen Ades and Alice Chera School of Social Work

This week on the Chapters by PROPEL podcast, Melanie sits down with the insanely talented Shelly Schmool, founder of @byshelly photography, whose journey began with simple photo shoots for friends and grew into a thriving business that now takes her around the world. From milestones like birthday parties and weddings to her famous dream sessions, she’s built a career out of capturing life’s most meaningful moments.In this episode, she shares meaningful advice on how to balance it all while staying true to your passion. Most importantly, she reminds us that no dream is ever too big — even if it feels out of reach at first.A must-listen for anyone chasing their passion!This episode is brought to you by the Rachel Sutton School of Photography

This week on Chapters by PROPEL Network, we’re so excited to welcome Marlenn Zarif who is already making a name for herself in the fashion PR world! With incredible experience at fashion houses like Hermès and Chanel, Marlenn is carving out her own path and building a name to watch. In this episode, she talks to Melanie about how she discovered PR, why she values every relationship and experience, and why sometimes the most important thing is simply being “in the room.” She shares wisdom, inspiration, and practical advice you won’t want to miss!This episode is brought to you by the Chella Safra School of Communications

In this episode,  Melanie sits down with the very talented Selena Gindi, founder of SKG Style. Selena shares what style means to her (hint: it’s so much more than what you wear!), how she balances her passion for fashion with family life, and how her career has evolved over the years. She also opens up why she values her client relationships and how gratitude plays such an important role in her life. Find out about Selena’s memorable moments working with incredible brands and advice for women who want to break into the business. You’ll walk away feeling inspired, motivated, and ready to embrace your own style journey.This episode is brought to you by the Marcy Feldman School of Fashion and sponsored by Hit Central Studios. 

In this week’s episode Grace Esses Mamiye from Grace's Gymnastics shares how her lifelong passion for gymnastics turned into a thriving business. What started as backyard lessons quickly grew into hundreds of students packed into her Brooklyn basement and eventually into a beautiful, full-scale studio with a dedicated team. In this episode, Grace tells us what it takes to grow a business from the ground up, how she built systems that scaled, and why she still loves every minute of it. So many kids in our community have learned, grown, and thrived through Grace’s Gymnastics. Her story is all about passion, grit, and the magic of momentum.This episode was graciously sponsored by Betty Esses Flowers

Meet Doris Dwek, a one-in-a-million talent and a truly special soul! What began with birthday parties has blossomed into a thriving career planning unforgettable bar mitzvahs, weddings, and milestone celebrations. Doris pours her heart into every event, bringing joy, beauty, and meaning to the happiest moments in people’s lives.In this episode, she chats with Melanie Kule about the passion behind her work and her drive to give back, weaving community impact into everything she does.Get ready for wisdom, words of advice, and inspiration from a woman who does it all with style and heart!This episode is brought to you by the Margie SakaSchool of Hospitality and sponsored by SylC Designs

Linda Levy is the powerhouse behind “Party by Linda,” a one-woman show that’s equal parts Zumba instructor, party planner, camp creator, and entertainer. In this episode, Linda opens up about how she turned her natural energy and creativity into a full-blown brand—all while raising a family, adapting through challenges, and staying grounded in her values. From singing telegrams to scavenger hunts in Bloomingdale’s, Linda shares what it takes to build a business around joy.Highlights:How a post-chemotherapy fitness journey launched Linda’s career in Zumba and entertainmentThe growth from a three-person basement class to packed events and corporate travel gigsConfidence, kindness, and humility: Linda’s three pillars of successHow social media and showing up authentically helped her business thriveThe importance of creating balance, saying “no,” and prioritizing self-careLinda’s creative process behind customized events, songs, and experiencesGiving back to the community as a core value—and what she’s learned from itLessons her kids have picked up by watching her build a career with heartThis episode is sponsored by Victor Hakim in honor of his wife Michele and by Dans Desserts

Meet the inspiring woman who cofounded Embark Beyond, where every journey is crafted with heart and precision. In this episode, Melanie sits down with the incredible Julie Danziger as she shares how her passion became a profession and tells us about the magic that goes into planning unforgettable trips. She opens up about steering her business through the challenges of COVID with resilience and creativity and how she balances family with her profession. Tune in for her powerful advice to anyone dreaming of turning their passion into a lasting legacy.Brought to you by the Margie Saka School of Hospitality

This week’s podcast episode is one you DEFINITELY don’t want to miss! Melanie sits down with the incredibly talented and super fun Esther Levy Chehebar! She gives us a behind-the-scenes look at her writing process as she prepares to release her debut novel, “Sister of Fortune”, with Random House Publishing. She’s smart, inspiring, and full of stories you’ll want to hear. Tune in for an unforgettable conversation!This episode is brought to you by the Grace Gindi & Stephanie Gabbay School of Licensing. www.thepropelnetwork.org

Meet Eileen Missry—also known as Kardio and Kale—a superstar who turns every day into a master class in passion, organization, and balance. From baking cookies to running a full-scale culinary operation, she wears many hats: caterer, private chef, cooking teacher, and content creator. In this episode Eileen talks how she built her brand while staying rooted in family, Jewish tradition, and wellness. Tune in for an inspiring episode that proves you can turn your passion into a successful business and do it all with heart. This episode is generously sponsored by Ouris Market, in memory of their mother Sarah who brought warmth, positivity, and true spirit of teamwork to her family run business. Brought to you by the Cynthia Haddad School of Culinary Arts

In this episode, our host @melaniekule sits down with the talented and driven @alexiscohen to hear how she turned her passion into a thriving business. She shares the story of her organic growth, the exciting and challenging projects that shaped her journey, and how she manages the juggle of entrepreneurship and parenthood. Alexis opens up about the lessons she’s learned along the way and the advice she has for anyone starting out. Tune in for an inspiring conversation full of wisdom and heart! Highlights:- How Alexis goes from an idea to creating her magical desserts - Memorable cakes including the one she baked for Paris Hilton’s 30th birthday - The impact of social media on business - How faith guides Alexis in everything she does

Meet Heleyne Tamir — founder and creative force behind a cosmetic line, a blooming floral shop, and four enchanting cafés. On this week’s episode, Heleyne Tamir shares the real story behind building beauty and magic from the ground up. She talks to her about starting and running multiple businesses, managing family life and creating a life where passion and grit can go hand in hand. She also discusses how PROPEL Network has been a game changer in our community. Tune in for a dose of inspiration and energy.Links & Resources:Check out Bloom Bar on social media: instagram.com/bloombarflowermarketGet started with a PROPEL Career Coach or Business Strategist:⁠https://www.thepropelnetwork.org/coaching⁠Explore PROPEL's initiatives and upcoming events:⁠www.instagram.com/propelnetwork⁠Host & Personal Development Coach Melanie Kule:⁠www.instagram.com/melaniekule⁠

Fortune Dushey, the creative mind behind Fortune Inspired, inspires us to find joy through fashion, wellness, travel, and beyond with her vibrant blog and engaging Instagram posts. In this episode, Melanie Kule sit down with Fortune Dushey to share how her curiosity and passion for life guided her journey to discovering her path (so far!) Tune in as she discusses the importance of staying true to your intentions and the patience required to build a successful business.This episode is sponsored by Be Seated: Set your table with these elegant disposable tablewareHighlights: -How Fortune built her business while raising a family-A refreshing perspective on striving for balance-The value of being a lifelong learner-The way she built lasting relationships with top fashion brands-Why consistent follow-up is the key to successLinks & Resources:Check out Fortune on social media: www.instagram.com/fortunedusheyExplore PROPEL's initiatives and upcoming events:⁠www.instagram.com/propelnetwork⁠Host & Personal Development Coach Melanie Kule:⁠www.instagram.com/melaniekule⁠Get started with a PROPEL Career Coach or Business Strategist:https://www.thepropelnetwork.org/Record your own podcast or song at Hit Central: 

Mariel Dweck, also known as @marielody_, has become a well-known entertainer for children (and moms!) and a momfluencer who loves what she does! In addition to singing and dancing and bringing joy to her classes and YouTube videos, she shares creative family- based content – everything from parenting tips to her vodka sauce recipe. In this episode of Chapters Mariel talks about how she started a business, how she grew, and what comes next!Highlights⁃ How her  Mommy and Me class became like a family- Turning to PROPEL for guidance in creating her own Marielody YouTube channel ⁃ The importance of authenticity and connecting with people⁃ How vital confidence is when putting yourself out thereThis episode is sponsored by Gluten Free Easy! www.gf-easy.com/Links & Resources:Check out Marielody on social media: https://www.instagram.com/marielody_/Explore PROPEL's initiatives and upcoming events:⁠www.instagram.com/propelnetwork⁠Host & Personal Development Coach Melanie Kule:⁠www.instagram.com/melaniekule⁠Get started with a PROPEL Career Coach or Business Strategist:https://www.thepropelnetwork.org/Record your own podcast or song at Hit Central: https://www.instagram.com/hitcentralmusic/

Raquel Habert, better known as Mazza Queen, has mastered the art of creating delicious, beautifully crafted Mazza while infusing every aspect of her work with kindness and faith. Beyond her culinary talents, she is deeply dedicated to chesed and carries an unshakable emunah in Hashem. In this episode, Raquel shares how her business grew from baking a single dozen lahamagine to catering for hundreds on a Passover program—all while staying true to her values and giving back to the community.Highlights:    •    How saying “yes” opens doors to new opportunities    •    Her love for Chesed and the many ways that she gives back to the community    •    Seeing the direct impact of charity in her work    •    Raquel’s natural business instincts from a young age    •    The profound influence of her parents on her journeyLinks & Resources:Check out Mazza Queen on social media: instagram.com/mazzaqueenExplore PROPEL's initiatives and upcoming events:⁠www.instagram.com/propelnetwork⁠Host & Personal Development Coach Melanie Kule:⁠www.instagram.com/melaniekule⁠Get started with a PROPEL Career Coach or Business Strategist:https://www.thepropelnetwork.org/Record your own podcast or song at Hit Central Studios: 

Margi Bijou, better known as @margaretterose and "The Hat Lady," plays an integral role in the semachot of our community. From brises and Bar Mitzvahs to weddings, she has carved out a unique niche as a milliner and hat consultant. But beyond fashion, Margi’s true passion lies in giving back—donating all of her proceeds to build hospital rooms for teenagers fighting cancer. In this episode, she shares how she built her business, the inspiration behind her nonprofit work, and invaluable tips for success.Highlights:-Margi's unlikely start as the community's first hat consultant-The breakdown of her famous "rules"-The value of treating every customer equally-The importance of picking the right partner in marriageDeborah Ash School of AccessoriesLinks & Resources:Check out Margarette Rose on social media: www.instagram.com/margaretterose/Explore PROPEL's initiatives and upcoming events:⁠www.instagram.com/propelnetwork⁠Host & Personal Development Coach Melanie Kule:⁠www.instagram.com/melaniekule⁠Get started with a PROPEL Career Coach or Business Strategist:https://www.thepropelnetwork.org/Record your own podcast or song at Hit Central Studios: www.instagram.com/hitcentralstudios

Judi Gabbay Braha, better known as Glossip Girl, is a talented makeup artist who has built a flourishing career in the beauty industry, combining her artistry with the business acumen needed to thrive. In this episode, Judi shares her journey from passionate teen to a sought-after professional who works with celebrities on the red carpet, brides, and editorial models.Highlights:-The importance of evolving with the beauty industry to stay relevant.-Why understanding the business side of artistry is key to success.-The role of mentorship and education in shaping the next generation of artists.-Balancing creative passion with the realities of running a business.-The value of client relationships and trust in building a strong reputation.This episode is brought to you by theSharon and Brenda Hazan School of CosmetologyLinks & Resources:Check out Glossip Girl on social media: https://www.instagram.com/glossipgirlExplore PROPEL's initiatives and upcoming events:⁠www.instagram.com/propelnetwork⁠Host & Personal Development Coach Melanie Kule:⁠www.instagram.com/melaniekule⁠Get started with a PROPEL Career Coach or Business Strategist:https://www.thepropelnetwork.org/Record your own podcast or song at Hit Central Studios:⁠www.instagram.com/hitcentralstudios

Pearl Mizrahi, better known as Hair By Pearl, is a skilled hairdresser and the owner of a thriving salon, where she balances her passion for styling with the demands of being a business owner and mother. In this episode, Pearl opens up about her journey of resilience, the challenges she’s faced, and the continuous effort to maintain balance in her life and career. Highlights: -How Pearl’s love for hairstyling turned into a successful business. -The importance of learning the business side of the industry in order to be successful. -The value of supporting your staff, even if they go off on their own and become, quote on quote, competitors. -The critical role of finding a niche to be the best at. -Juggling family and a growing business while prioritizing self-care. -The power of building meaningful relationships with clients. This episode is brought to you by the Joyce Kassin School of Beauty and Style Links & Resources: Check out Hair By Pearl on social media: instagram.com/hairbypearl400u Explore PROPEL's initiatives and upcoming events: ⁠www.instagram.com/propelnetwork⁠ Host & Personal Development Coach Melanie Kule: ⁠www.instagram.com/melaniekule⁠ Get started with a PROPEL Career Coach or Business Strategist: ⁠info@thepropelnetwork.org⁠ Record your own podcast or song at Hit Central Studios: ⁠www.instagram.com/hitcentralstudios