We’ve all heard it: polite people don’t talk about money. But for women - and especially for the female business owner - that rule has fueled decades of money shame and silence. In this episode, I’m breaking the “don’t talk about money” rule wide open.I share my own story of debt, secrecy, and money shaming, and why facing the truth out loud changed everything. Then, I’ll walk you through how female business owners can flip the script - moving from money shame and silence into power, freedom, and choice.Inside this episode:Why women are taught to don’t talk about money and how that leads to money shameHow I learned to stop hiding debt and start answering “what do you charge” without apologySneaky ways money shaming shows up in your business as a female business ownerWhy saying your rates confidently (and not discounting) shifts your relationship with moneyPractical steps to turn money shame into self-care and growthIf you’ve ever wondered how to answer “what do you charge” or felt the sting of money shaming, this is your reminder: you’re allowed to want more, and you don’t have to stay silent.👉 Come join me inside The Grove where we host monthly money meetings to normalize these conversations. Or hop on my newsletter for weekly no-fluff strategies to build the business you actually want.RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Blog Post: The Don’t Talk About Money Rule – and How to Claim Your Worth Out LoudThe GroveFemale Founders Collective Meetups - Join us for FREE!CONNECT WITH KATY RIPP: Website: www.katyripp.comInstagram: @katyrippPinterest: @katyrippFacebook: @katy.rippJoin my newsletter - where I flip the script on Mondays - transforming dread into momentum by setting clear, values-driven intentions for the week.
Are you tired of playing small in your business?In this episode, I open up about how the “play small rule” has kept women like us stuck for decades - and how we can finally stop playing small, start overcoming self doubt, and stop apologizing for taking up space in our lives and businesses.For years, I thought being agreeable and shrinking myself made me safe and likable. But the truth? It only kept me invisible, underpaid, and playing small. If you’ve ever caught yourself apologizing before you even speak, calling your business “just a side hustle,” or playing small because you don’t want to seem “too much,” this one is for you.In this episode, we’ll explore:Why playing small feels safe - but secretly keeps you stuck in fear and invisibility.The turning point when I realized I had to stop playing small, even if it meant losing people along the way.The subtle ways women apologize, shrink, and self-sabotage without realizing it - and how to finally stop apologizing.What it actually looks like when we start overcoming self doubt and step into the space your gifts were meant to take up.How rewriting this rule doesn’t mean steamrolling every room - it means showing up fully and unapologetically as yourself.This week’s challenge for you: Find one area where you’ve been playing small. Maybe it’s the way you talk about money. Maybe it’s how you describe what you do. Maybe it’s holding back from sharing a win. Wherever you notice yourself shrinking - do the opposite. Say the thing. Claim the win. Send the pitch. Raise the price.Then DM me on Instagram: @katyripp and tell me how it goes. I’d love to hear where you’re stepping out of the box.RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:The GroveFemale Founders Collective Meetups - Join us for FREE!Blog post: Rule 2: The Play Small Rule – and How We’re Breaking Out of the BoxJoin my newsletter - where I flip the script on Mondays - transforming dread into momentum by setting clear, values-driven intentions for the week.CONNECT WITH KATY RIPP: Website: www.katyripp.comInstagram: @katyrippPinterest: @katyrippFacebook: @katy.ripp
What if I told you that hustle culture is actually keeping you from the very success you’re chasing? We’ve been told that burning the midnight oil, sacrificing rest, and saying yes to everything is what it takes to “make it” in business. But in reality, that’s just toxic hustle culture talking - and it’s stealing your joy, your health, and your freedom.In this episode, I’m sharing my personal story of how the “grind or die” rule shaped my identity as a business owner, why it doesn’t work (especially for women), and how I finally started working with my personal energy instead of against it. This isn’t about doing more, it’s about honoring your cycles, protecting your energy in business, and building something that feels like true sustainable work - not survival.Here’s what you’ll hear inside this episode:Why hustle culture taught us to wear overwork like a badge - and the moment I realized I had just bought myself another job instead of building freedom.The hidden ways toxic hustle culture shows up in women-run businesses, and why it was never designed for us in the first place.How ignoring your personal energy leads to burnout, resentment, and exhaustion - and why tuning into your natural rhythms can change everything.A new rule for how to manage your energy in business daily, weekly, and even seasonally - so you stop forcing productivity and start creating flow.Practical shifts that turn constant grind into truly sustainable work, giving you back time, joy, and permission to actually rest.This episode is your reminder that you don’t have to prove yourself by running on empty. You can succeed by respecting your humanity, honoring your cycles, and letting your personal energy be the guide for how you show up in business.This week’s reflection: What’s one new way you can work or rest to honor your personal energy in business this week? DM me on Instagram @katyripp and tell me. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Blog Post: Rule 1: The Grind or Die Rule – and Why We’re Quitting the GameThe GroveFemale Founders Collective Meetups - Join us for FREE!CONNECT WITH KATY RIPP: Website: www.katyripp.comInstagram: @katyrippPinterest: @katyrippFacebook: @katy.ripp
You know it as well as I do: hustle culture is toxic. We’ve been told that if we just work harder, say yes to everything, and keep it “professional,” that’s how to build a business that lasts. But here’s the truth - I followed all those rules, and it left me exhausted, disconnected, and wondering if the problem was me. Spoiler: it wasn’t. The problem was the old playbook that was never designed for women run businesses.In this week’s kickoff to Season 2 of #ActuallyICan, I’m breaking down exactly why the old rules don’t fit anymore and what it looks like to finally throw them out. If you’re ready to redefining success, stop playing small, and learn how to build a business on your own terms, this episode is going to feel like a breath of fresh air.What you’ll hear in this episode:The surprising origin of the “rules” we’ve been taught to follow in business - and why hustle culture is toxic when applied to women balancing creativity, caregiving, and leadershipThe moment I realized checking every box of the old playbook wasn’t how to build a business that felt fulfilling - and what I did insteadWhy trying to please everyone actually dulls your spark and keeps you from creating the women run business you’ve been dreaming ofThe sneaky rules you might still be carrying (like don’t talk about money, grind harder, or keep it shiny) and how they hold you back from truly redefining successWhat this new season is all about: supporting you to build your business in a way that finally feels like it was written for youNow I want to hear from you: What outdated rule are YOU done following? Send me a DM on Instagram @katyripp and tell me, “Katy, the rule I’m ditching is…”RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:The GroveFemale Founders Collective Meetups - Join us for FREE!Blog Post: Why the Old Playbook Doesn’t Work for UsCONNECT WITH KATY RIPP: Website: www.katyripp.comInstagram: @katyrippPinterest: @katyrippFacebook: @katy.ripp
Are you running your business like you still have a boss? If you’re still clinging to a rigid 9-to-5 mindset, it’s time to break free. In this episode, I’m sharing flexible work schedule examples that can help you avoid entrepreneurial burnout and create real time freedom. We’ll dig into why traditional time management for entrepreneurs can feel so exhausting, and how redefining your work rhythm can transform not just your business, but your entire life.If you’ve been feeling the pull for more boundaries in business, less guilt, and a business that actually fits your lifestyle, this one’s for you.In this episode, we’ll cover:The surprising history behind the 9-to-5 workday (and why it’s failing entrepreneurs who are craving time freedom)How to find your “prime brain time” and build a custom schedule that maximizes your creativity and focus (flexible work schedule examples you can try this week)Why time freedom isn’t just about working less, but working smarter – and why that’s key to avoiding entrepreneurial burnoutThe truth about boundaries in business – how to set them, enforce them, and stop apologizing for themWhy time management for entrepreneurs is more about energy than hours, and how to track your natural work rhythms for better resultsWhat is one “guilt-inducing” habit you secretly enjoy as an entrepreneur? (Naps in the middle of the day? Cutting out early for a long walk? Turning off your phone for hours at a time?) DM me on Instagram @katyripp and let me know. I’d love to hear it!RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Do Not Disturb SignActually, We Can CommunityFemale Founders CollectiveCONNECT WITH KATY RIPP: Website: www.katyripp.comInstagram: @katyrippPinterest: @katyrippFacebook: @katy.ripp
If you’ve ever asked yourself, “How do I manifest?” or wondered whether the Law of Attraction is just a little too woo-woo to work in the real world, this episode is for you. Whether you’re manifesting parking spots, more clients, or your next big career move, I’m breaking down the real, practical steps you need to know. These are the manifestation examples and stories that have helped me build businesses, hit big goals, and create the life I truly want. If you’re ready to learn how to manifest what you want, hit play.Note: This is a special rerelease of one of my all-time favorite episodes. I’m revisiting it because the response was so strong, and I know you’ll find something new in it even if you’ve heard it before.In this episode, I’m covering:How to manifest what you want – why defining your desires clearly can be the difference between daydreaming and actual results.Manifestation examples – the surprising way I used the Law of Attraction to score front-row parking spots (and how this small habit set the stage for bigger wins).How to manifest success – what it really takes to stay in the right energy, even when doubt creeps in.How do I manifest if I have self-doubt? – the mindset shifts that helped me move from skepticism to manifesting big outcomes.How to trust the process – why letting go of control and practicing gratitude is non-negotiable if you want your dreams to actually show up.Your turn: What’s one thing you’re ready to manifest in your business this month? DM me on Instagram: @katyripp and let me know. I’d love to cheer you on!RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Actually, We Can CommunityFemale Founders CollectiveMidlife on Purpose: WorkbookThe SecretCONNECT WITH KATY RIPP: Website: www.katyripp.comInstagram: @katyrippPinterest: @katyrippFacebook: @katy.ripp
Ever feel like your relationship with money is more emotional than logical? You’re not alone—and it’s not your fault. In this episode, I’m joined by financial therapist Lindsey Konchar to unpack the real reasons behind your money guilt and how to finally align your money and values in a way that feels good, not heavy.We dig into the question: why are financial values important? (especially for women building purpose-driven businesses). As a financial therapist, Lindsey shares how our earliest money memories shape our lifelong relationship with money, and why ignoring your money and values only leads to more burnout, shame, and undercharging. Inside this episode, we dive into:How your first money memory shaped your entire relationship with money (and how to rewrite it)Why so many women feel overwhelmed by money guilt, even when they’re earning more than everWhat happens when you avoid looking at your numbers—and why facing your finances helps realign your money and valuesHow a certified financial therapist approaches money shame, spending habits, and personal goals differently than a typical money coachWhy are financial values important? Hint: it’s because they’re real reason behind every major decision you make as an entrepreneurIf your gut’s been telling you it’s time to look at your numbers, heal your relationship with money, and release the money guilt you’ve been carrying—this episode is your sign.Listen now, then DM me on Instagram @katyripp: What’s one money story you’re ready to let go of?RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Actually, We Can CommunityFemale Founders CollectiveCONNECT WITH KATY RIPP: Website: www.katyripp.comInstagram: @katyrippPinterest: @katyrippFacebook: @katy.rippCONNECT WITH LINDSEY KONCHAR:Website: financialselfcareblog.comInstagram: @financialtherapistlindseyFinancial Self Care podcastIntentional Spending Planner
Thinking about quitting a job to start a business but paralyzed by fear and “what ifs”? You're not alone.In this episode, I sit down with my friend and former nurse-turned-entrepreneur Kelly Endres to talk about what it really looks like to go from employee to entrepreneur—especially when you're walking away from a job that felt like a calling.Kelly’s story of leaving nursing to work side-by-side with her husband in their insurance agency is deeply honest, relatable, and full of the kind of real-talk we need more of in midlife entrepreneurship. If you're craving more freedom in business, more purpose in your work, and less hustle-for-the-sake-of-hustle, this episode is for you.We’re pulling back the curtain on the messy middle—the doubt, the money fears, the identity shifts—and how Kelly built a business rooted in service, heart, and unapologetic alignment.In this episode, we dive into:What no one tells you about quitting a job to start a business—and why Kelly almost didn’tThe emotional rollercoaster of going from employee to entrepreneur (especially when the job you’re leaving is one you love)Why women often stay in “safe” careers too long—and how leaving nursing finally gave Kelly the freedom in business she was cravingHow to work with your spouse without losing your mind—or your boundariesWhat it really takes to find purpose again after walking away from a helping professionLet’s chat: Are you thinking about quitting a job to start a business but feeling stuck in fear or guilt? DM me on Instagram @katyripp and tell me: What’s your biggest fear about going from employee to entrepreneur?I’d love to hear your story.RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:The Art of HelloActually, We Can CommunityFemale Founders CollectiveCONNECT WITH KATY RIPP: Website: www.katyripp.comInstagram: @katyrippPinterest: @katyrippFacebook: @katy.rippCONNECT WITH KELLY ENDRES:Endres Insurance Agency WebsiteEndres Insurance Agency Facebook
Not sure what’s next when it comes to building your business? Here’s how to get re-aligned at any stage of your journey. In this episode, I’m inviting you to slow down, breathe, and meet your business where she’s at—because whether you’re in year one or year ten, it’s never too late for some business goal alignment. And here’s the truth: you don’t need to burn it all down—you just need to realign with what matters most.Inside this episode, I’ll guide you through:The unsexy (but essential) business basics that most people skip—but actually set you up for long-term successThe ultimate checklist for starting a business (and building one) that actually fits your life, your energy, and your valuesHow to clarify your offers, ditch the confusion, and start building your business around what lights you upWhy business basics like your domain name, business structure, and financial systems still matter—even if you’ve been at this for a whileA fresh take on business goal alignment—and how to define success your way without following outdated rulesIf you’ve ever felt like building your business was done on someone else’s terms, this episode will help you reconnect with the version that feels most true to you. Whether you’re staring at the checklist for starting a business for the very first time or refining your offers for the third time this year, this is your guide to come back to center.By the end of this episode, you’ll feel grounded, clear, and ready to take your next aligned step—wherever you are in your journey of building your business.DM me on Instagram @katyripp and tell me: What stage of building your business are you in—and what’s one piece of the business basics you’re ready to revisit?RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Actually, We Can CollectiveFemale Founders CollectiveWisconsin.gov - Business portalCONNECT WITH KATY RIPP: Website: www.katyripp.comInstagram: @katyrippPinterest: @katyrippFacebook: @katy.ripp
Ever find yourself wondering, is email marketing still effective?—or are we just supposed to dance on reels forever? If you’re overwhelmed by the noise online and craving a marketing strategy that actually works (and feels good to do), this episode is for you.I’m sitting down with Dawn Richardson from Flodesk to dig into email marketing for small business. Whether you’re brand new to list building or you’ve had a dusty ol' opt-in hanging out on your website for months, you’ll walk away from this episode knowing exactly how to do email marketing in a way that feels aligned with your values—and works while you sleep.In this episode, we’re chatting about:Why the question “is email marketing still effective?” is missing the bigger picture—and the surprising ROI stats that might just blow your mindDawn’s story of going from a wedding photographer to a six-figure business owner—thanks in large part to her list of just 200 subscribers (yep, really)Why email marketing vs social media isn’t even close when it comes to reach, engagement, and sustainabilityWhat most women entrepreneurs get wrong about how to grow an email list, and how to fix it with a few simple mindset shiftsThe step-by-step on how to do email marketing in a way that builds connection, and what to do if you’re terrified of sounding too salesy in your emails.Bonus: Dawn also shares how to grow an email list using her favorite underrated ways to collect email addresses (hint: it’s not just another boring PDF checklist)Whether you're building your first form or sending your 100th newsletter, this conversation will help you rethink your strategy, reconnect with your audience, and actually enjoy showing up online again. Because email marketing for small business shouldn’t feel like a chore—it should feel like a breath of fresh air.DM me on Instagram @katyripp and tell me this: What’s your biggest block when it comes to email marketing? RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Actually, We Can CommunityFemale Founders CollectiveThe Art of HelloGet 50% off of Flodesk HERE!CanvaInteractWhich Mac Is Right For You QuizCONNECT WITH KATY RIPP: Website: www.katyripp.comInstagram: @katyrippPinterest: @katyrippFacebook: @katy.rippCONNECT WITH DAWN RICHARDSON:Website: www.techsavvycreative.com
Feeling overwhelmed in your business? It might be time to let go of what’s not working and finally create space for an aligned, optimized business that supports your life—not runs it.In this episode, I’m walking you through what I like to call a good old-fashioned spring cleaning for your business. I’m sharing how to figure out my favorite approach to organizing a small business and optimizing business operations: what to keep, what to tweak, and what to finally let go of so your business can have an optimized business that doesn’t burn you out.Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:How a simple mindset shift helped me stop spinning my wheels and start building a more optimized businessThe exact process I use to evaluate what’s working and what needs to go—plus how this helps with organizing a small businessWhy more isn’t always better—and how to use one of my favorite small business tips to simplify your offers and operationsWhat finally convinced me to start outsourcing in business (and how it completely changed the game)The small-but-mighty tweaks I’ve made for optimizing business operations—and how you can, tooWhat’s one thing you know you need to let go of in your business—but you’re still holding on to it?DM me your answer on Instagram @katyripp—I’d love to hear what you’re processing, pruning, and making space for this season. And if this episode resonated with you, come join us inside the Actually, We Can Collective—my private community for midlife women entrepreneurs who are done with hustle and ready to build a purpose-driven, optimized business with clarity and confidence.RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Actually, We Can CollectiveFemale Founders CollectiveThe Art of HelloCONNECT WITH KATY RIPP: Website: www.katyripp.comInstagram: @katyrippPinterest: @katyrippFacebook: @katy.ripp
Have you ever felt like you were meant for more—but didn’t know how to get there without losing yourself in the process?In this episode, I sit down with Claire French, a virtual assistant and entrepreneur who left her corporate job, moved across the world to Australia, and built a thriving heart-centered business rooted in her personal core values. Claire gets real about her story of moving to a new country, starting a business as a virtual assistant and creating a sustainable business that honors who she is—not who the world told her to be.Claire shares how her journey unfolded (spoiler alert: it wasn’t all smooth sailing), how she stayed aligned with her personal core values, and why running a business as a woman is just... different.Here’s what we dive into:The unexpected events that pushed Claire to leave corporate, move abroad, and fully commit to starting a business as a virtual assistant—and how she made it all workWhy personal core values became her compass in business (and how you can use yours, too)What it really means to run a heart-centered business—and why it’s the antidote to burnout and overwhelmThe unseen emotional labor and identity shifts that come with entrepreneurship—and the specific challenges faced by female entrepreneursRewriting the outdated business advice for women: How Claire rebuilt her business from scratch after burnout, and the mindset that helped her start again (this will change how you think about failure)Claire’s story is raw, empowering, and packed with truth bombs that every woman entrepreneur needs to hear.What would it look like if you built a heart-centered business around your personal core values—not someone else’s rules? DM me your answer over on Instagram @katyripp—I genuinely want to hear from you.RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Actually, We Can CommunityFemale Founders CollectiveEverything Is Figureoutable by Marie ForleoWho Not How by Dan SullivanCONNECT WITH KATY RIPP: Website: www.katyripp.comInstagram: @katyrippPinterest: @katyrippFacebook: @katy.rippCONNECT WITH CLAIRE FRENCH:Instagram: @claire.e.frenchWebsite: https://claireelizabeth.co/
Ever felt like the moment you start seeing business growth, things suddenly feel harder instead of easier? Like you’ve finally hit a new level, but instead of feeling excited, you’re questioning everything? You want to grow your business—but why does it feel so uncomfortable when it actually happens?In this episode, I’m breaking down why business growth feels messy, why hitting that next level brings up all kinds of doubts and fears, and most importantly—how to grow your business without letting the discomfort derail you.I’m sharing my own struggles with feeling stuck, battling the fear of success, and learning to reframe challenges as a sign I’m on the right path. If you’re feeling stretched, second-guessing yourself, or tempted to retreat to what’s safe, this episode is for you.Inside this episode, I’m diving into:Why business growth brings discomfort—and why that’s actually a good thingThe sneaky ways fear of success shows up and keeps you stuck in old patternsHow to tell the difference between normal growing pains and a sign you need to pivotWhy embracing discomfort is essential if you actually want to grow your businessThe key mindset shift that will help you stop overcoming self doubt and start taking actionHere’s the deal: The moment you stop chasing comfort and start embracing discomfort, everything shifts. And that’s exactly what we’re unpacking in today’s episode.DM me on Instagram @katyripp and tell me: what’s one way your business growth has felt uncomfortable lately? Let’s talk about it—because I promise, you’re not the only one feeling this way.And if you're craving support from a community of women who get it, join us inside Actually, We Can—my private space for midlife women entrepreneurs who are ditching the fear of success and ready to approach business growth in a way that actually feels good. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Actually, We Can CommunityFemale Founders CollectiveCONNECT WITH KATY RIPP: Website: www.katyripp.comInstagram: @katyrippPinterest: @katyrippFacebook: @katy.ripp
What if you’re doing everything “right” but still feel out of alignment?I’ve been there. And after a full season of podcasting, I realized I wasn’t following my own advice—I was forcing something that didn’t fit anymore. That’s why #ActuallyICan is evolving. In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on my personal shift, my battle with burnout, and the big changes coming to the podcast. If you're a female entrepreneur ready to build a profitable, aligned business (without the hustle-for-hustle’s sake nonsense), this season is for you.Here’s what I share in this episode: The moment I knew I had to change everything (and why ignoring my gut cost me big time)Why Season 2 is all about business mentoring for female entrepreneursThe power of pivoting—how to shift before you hit total burnoutHow I’m structuring the podcast to give you more actionable insights (and less overwhelm)What’s staying, what’s going, and what you can expect nextIf you’ve ever felt trapped in your own business, second-guessed a pivot, or struggled with burnout, this episode is your permission slip to listen to your gut and make the shift.RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Actually, We Can CommunityFemale Founders CollectiveCONNECT WITH KATY RIPP: Website: www.katyripp.comInstagram: @katyrippPinterest: @katyrippFacebook: @katy.ripp
What happens when life doesn’t go according to plan? For Katie Bryan, motherhood was always part of the vision—but doing it alone wasn’t. After years of searching for the right partner, Katie realized she was done waiting and took her future into her own hands, becoming a single mom by choice. But her journey didn’t stop there. She not only embraced solo parenting, but also dedicated herself to creating a community of strong, independent women walking the same path. And to top it off? She found a way to start building a business that aligned with her passion and purpose.In this episode, Katie gets real about the fears, mindset shifts, and breakthroughs that led her to solo parenting and entrepreneurship on her own terms. Whether you're considering solo parenting, dreaming of building a business, or creating a community that fuels your soul, this conversation is packed with inspiration, wisdom, and straight-up truth.We dive into:How Katie went from "waiting for the right partner" to becoming a single mom by choice—and how she knew it was the right decision.The mindset shift that changed everything—from feeling like solo parenting was her last resort to realizing it was the best choice of her life.What it really takes to navigate fertility treatments, choose a donor, and embrace the rollercoaster of becoming a single mom by choice.How she started creating a community for other women on this path—and why connection is the biggest game-changer in solo parenting.Her unexpected journey into building a business—and how she turned her passion into a thriving coaching & support network for single mom by choice.If you’ve ever questioned whether you have the courage to carve your own path, Katie’s story will prove that not only can you do it—you can thrive. Hit play now and get ready to be inspired. Because when life doesn’t go as planned, sometimes the best thing you can do is rewrite the rules.RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Female Founders CollectiveMidlife on Purpose: WorkbookCONNECT WITH KATY RIPP: Submit a letter HERE for a Dear Katy episodeWebsite: www.katyripp.comInstagram: @katyrippPinterest: @katyrippFacebook: @katy.rippCONNECT WITH KATIE BRYAN:Website: www.singlegreatestchoice.comInstagram: @single_greatest_choice
Have you ever stopped to ask yourself, what do you really want in life? Not what your family expects, not what society tells you, but what truly lights you up and fulfills your life purpose? If that question makes you pause—or sends you spiraling into overthinking—this episode is for you.This is part 2 of my conversation with Michelle Theriault from the Mind Rebel Academy, where we dive deeper into how to find your life purpose and fully own your desires. We’re exploring what happens after you decide to trust yourself. How do you start living in alignment? How do you stop holding yourself back and get clear on your life purpose? If you’ve been craving change but aren’t sure where to start, this episode will help you answer the question “what do you really want?” and begin designing a life that feels fully aligned with your life purpose and who you are now—not who you used to be.In this episode, we cover:The fear of wanting more—why asking “what do you really want?” can feel terrifying (and how to push through it)The sneaky ways we hold ourselves back—and how to challenge limiting beliefs keeping you from asking the question “what do you really want in life?”Why letting go of misaligned work, relationships, or habits can open the door to your life purpose.How to balance financial stability with personal alignment—and stop doing things just because they “make money”The exact process Michelle used to get clear on how to find your life purpose—and how you can do the sameIf you’re ready to stop playing by everyone else’s rules and start asking yourself “what do you really want in life?”, this episode is your permission slip.If you missed part 1 of my conversation with Michelle, be sure to check it out: How to Trust Yourself & Make a Midlife Career Change. In that episode, Michelle and I talked about learning to trust yourself—especially when making big life and career changes.
Have you ever felt like you’ve checked all the boxes—career, family, responsibilities—but something still feels off? Maybe you’re standing at a crossroads, wondering what’s next. The answer? Learning to trust yourself. But how do you do that when self-doubt keeps creeping in?In this first part of a two-part conversation, I sit down with Michelle Theriault from the Mind Rebel Academy to talk about how to trust yourself—in life, in business, and in those big, scary career transitions. Michelle shares her own powerful story of leaving behind a life she’d outgrown, embracing the unknown, and making a midlife career change.If you’re on the brink of a midlife career change or just feeling stuck in the “what’s next?” phase, this conversation is for you.In this episode, we cover:What is a life coach? And what does a life coach do? Michelle shares what real coaching looks like and why it’s not about handing out advice.How to trust yourself when making a midlife career change or any life decision—even when it feels terrifying.Michelle’s journey from stay-at-home mom to a life coach career that changed everything.The power of community—why the people you surround yourself with can make or break your journey of learning to trust yourself.Midlife career change—how to navigate the uncertainty and redefine what success looks like for you.Learning to trust yourself in business: How Michelle and I built careers based on gut instinct and self-belief.If you’ve ever doubted yourself, hesitated to make a big move, or struggled to find the confidence to trust yourself and go after what you really want—this episode is for you.Hit play now and let’s dive in! And be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss part 2, where we talk about owning your desires and living in alignment—because you deserve a life that feels as good as it looks.RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Female Founders CollectiveMidlife on Purpose: WorkbookBold Dreams Held Loosely Podcast Episode: The Wild West of the Coaching Industry (Part 1)Bold Dreams Held Loosely Podcast Episode: The Wild West of the Coaching Industry (Part 2)Who Not How by Dan SullivanCONNECT WITH KATY RIPP: Submit a letter HERE for a Dear Katy episodeWebsite: www.katyripp.comInstagram: @katyrippPinterest: @katyrippFacebook: @katy.rippCONNECT WITH MICHELLE THERIAULT AND MIND REBEL ACADEMY:Instagram: @
Have you ever felt stuck in a job that’s draining your energy and leaving you wondering if it’s possible to start a new career? In this episode, I chat with Brittany Piccola, a former high school teacher who faced teacher burnout head-on and made the bold decision to leave the classroom and start a new career as a virtual assistant.Brittany’s story is raw, real, and incredibly inspiring. After losing her mom and facing the harsh reality of juggling grief with an unforgiving teaching schedule, she realized it was time to leave the classroom and design a new career on her own terms. If you’ve ever thought about walking away from the familiar to start a new career, you’re going to love this conversation. Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:How teacher burnout can sneak up on you—and how to know when it’s time to go.The moment Brittany knew she had to leave the classroom and the unexpected opportunity that helped her start a new career.Practical steps for anyone ready to start a new career, especially teachers facing teacher burnout.Why prioritizing your mental health and well-being is the key to finding joy and fulfillment again.The surprising opportunities waiting for teachers who want to leave the classroom and start a new career.Whether you’re a teacher dreaming of something more, or you’re just ready for a major life pivot, this episode is packed with encouragement and practical advice to help you take the leap. Brittany’s journey proves that it’s never too late to start a new career that fits your life.RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Female Founders CollectiveMidlife on Purpose: WorkbookCONNECT WITH KATY RIPP: Submit a letter HERE for a Dear Katy episodeWebsite: www.katyripp.comInstagram: @katyrippPinterest: @katyrippFacebook: @katy.rippCONNECT WITH BRITTANY PICCOLA:Website: www.brittanypiccolava.comInstagram: @brittanypiccola_va
Ever found yourself Googling "how to start a business from scratch", wondering if you can actually turn your passion into a career? Maybe you've dreamed of turning a hobby into a business but felt paralyzed by fear in business—worried you don’t have what it takes. If that sounds like you, then girl, you’re in for a treat!In this episode, I sit down with Caitlin Kowalke, an incredible running coach, former pro athlete, and business owner, who took her passion for running and turned it into a thriving career. From getting into running as a young athlete to competing at the Olympic Trials, Caitlin shares how she transitioned from professional runner to entrepreneur—starting Fearless Feet Running from her closet.But it wasn’t always smooth sailing. Fear in business almost stopped her from taking the leap. Caitlin opens up about how she faced setbacks, battled self-doubt, and figured out how to start a business from scratch—all while balancing motherhood and life’s unexpected twists.If you’ve been waiting for a sign to finally start getting into running or take that first step toward turning a hobby into a business, this episode is it.Tune in to hear:How Caitlin went from Googling "how to start a business from scratch" to running a successful coaching business.The mindset shift that helped Caitlin push past fear in business and take the leap into entrepreneurship.The surprising way running builds confidence—and why it’s never too late to start getting into running.The exact steps Caitlin took to start turning a hobby into a business, even with zero experience as an entrepreneur.If you've ever wondered if turning a hobby into a business is possible, how to finally move past your fear in business, or why now is the perfect time for getting into running, this episode will inspire you to run (literally and figuratively) toward your dreams. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Female Founders CollectiveMidlife on Purpose: WorkbookCONNECT WITH KATY RIPP: Submit a letter HERE for a Dear Katy episodeWebsite: www.katyripp.comInstagram: @katyrippPinterest: @katyrippFacebook: @katy.rippCONNECT WITH CAITLIN KOWALKE:Website: www.fearlessfeetrunning.comInstagram: @fearlessfeetrunning
Ever felt like life threw you a curveball so hard it knocked the wind out of you? You’re not alone. In this episode, I sit down with screenwriter and storyteller Victoria Male, who turned her most painful losses into creative fuel. After losing her father unexpectedly in 2017, Victoria left her Hollywood career to pursue writing full-time. Her journey through processing grief, overcoming rejection, and reinvention is nothing short of inspiring. We dive deep into finding the silver lining in life’s toughest moments, overcoming rejection, and the incredible power of healing through creativity.Victoria shares what it was like working in the high-pressure world of Hollywood, the crushing moments of self-doubt, and how she finally decided to bet on herself. Inside this episode, we’ll cover:How creativity became Victoria’s lifeline—and why expressing yourself can be one of the most powerful tools for healing through creativity.The truth about overcoming rejection—why it never really gets easier, but why it also doesn’t have to stop you.The reality of processing grief—how it sneaks up, how to honor your emotions, and why there’s no "right way" to move forward.Finding the silver lining in loss—how Victoria turned heartbreak into a career breakthrough and why loss can often be the catalyst for massive growth.The inside scoop on Hollywood and storytelling—the pressures, the setbacks, and the moment Victoria finally realized she had what it takes to be a full-time writer.Maybe you’re standing at a crossroads, feeling the pull to create something meaningful but unsure if you’re "good enough." Maybe you’re navigating processing grief, overcoming rejection, or one of life’s many plot twists. Wherever you are, you’re not alone. Tune in to this episode and let Victoria’s story remind you that sometimes, the hardest chapters lead to the most incredible transformations.RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Female Founders CollectiveMidlife on Purpose: WorkbookEpisode 15: Creating a Meaningful End-of-Life Celebration with Alanna from Good MourningCONNECT WITH KATY RIPP: Submit a letter HERE for a Dear Katy episodeWebsite: www.katyripp.comInstagram: @katyrippPinterest: @katyrippFacebook: @katy.rippCONNECT WITH VICTORIA MALE:Website: www.victoriamale.comCADER IDRIS Short StoryInstagram: @victoriamale1Threads: @victoriamale1a...