She Built a Fashion Legacy by Choosing Joy Over the GrindThere is ambition that burns people out.And then there is ambition that makes you lighter.Kathryn Wilson chose the second path.In this episode of The Powerhouse Diaries, Kathryn strips back the fashion gloss and talks about what really built her twenty four year career. Not hustle. Not ego. Not a five year plan. Joy. The kind that feels almost rebellious in a world obsessed with productivity and proof.But this conversation is not the surface level self care Instagram loves. It is for the woman who knows success can feel heavy even when it looks perfect. The woman who needs a reminder that her intuition is a strategy. And the woman who secretly wants permission to enjoy her life more without losing her edge.Kathryn reveals just enough to pull you in. The moment she realised she wanted her business decisions to feel like fun again. Why she would rather talk to five year olds about optimism than sit in a board meeting. How she leads her team by asking what lights them up instead of what boxes they have ticked. And how a pair of shoes can shift your whole posture and your whole life.What she does not do is give you a formula.She gives you something better.A lens. A way of choosing. A way of staying human in the climb.We talk about what it really takes to put your name out there and keep your soul in the process. We peek behind the glamor into the grind, the resets, the pivots, and the moments where her body whispered stop long before her calendar did. We explore how joy has quietly been her compass through every unexpected chapter.This episode will not tell you to slow down. It will remind you to tune in.Because sometimes the bravest thing a woman can do in business is choose what feels good and trust that it counts.In This Episode We Discuss00:00 Kathryn on what joy really means in business 04:20 The childhood spark and discovering her love for shoes 08:55 Falling into business by following what felt fun 14:20 The real grind behind the glamor 20:10 Why she would rather mentor five year olds about optimism 26:40 How she leads her team through care instead of KPIs 31:55 Creating confidence through design 38:45 The emotional power of shoes and why women stand taller in them 45:20 Reinventing constantly in a fast changing industry 52:15 Protecting her energy without losing her magic 58:40 Knowing when to pivot versus when to push 01:04:30 Building a brand that reflects who you are 01:10:20 Choosing what feels good at forty five 01:17:55 Building a life she actually wants to wake up to01:24:00 Closing reflectionsEpisode ResourcesGuest Websitehttps://www.kathrynwilson.comGuest Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/kwfootwear/Guest LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/kathryn-wilson-373b361a7/Follow Us OnApple Podcastshttps://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/the-powerhouse-diaries/id1791081472Spotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/show/3ExGnkttIzhK8NMjyWLINw?si=184cc0b3c89d440fInstagramhttps://www.instagram.com/powerhousediaries
Designing the Dream, Then Dismantling ItThis is what happens when ambition meets awakening.Yaela Raber sits down with Mia Feasey, founder of Siren Design Group, to talk about what success really costs when you’ve spent your life chasing it.Mia built one of the most celebrated design studios in Asia Pacific, leading teams, winning awards, and creating spaces that shaped culture. From the outside it looked perfect. Inside, it was a slow collapse of identity, ego, and exhaustion.In this raw and unguarded conversation, Mia opens up about the reckoning that followed the burnout that forced her to rebuild from soul instead of status. She shares how she learned to lead without losing herself, why she dismantled the version of success she once worshipped, and what happens when you finally stop performing and start becoming.This episode isn’t about walking away. It’s about walking home.--In This Episode We Discuss00:00 Episode trailer01:10 The rise of Siren Design and the architecture of ambition06:00 When achievement becomes addiction12:30 Burnout, identity, and the ego that built the empire18:45 The power and pain of letting go25:00 Motherhood, leadership, and the cost of proving yourself31:15 Rebuilding from alignment instead of exhaustion37:20 What success looks like when peace becomes the goal43:40 Creativity after collapse48:00 How to design a life that finally fits--Episode ResourcesGuest Website: https://sirendesigngroup.comGuest Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Mia_FeaseyGuest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/miafeasey--Follow Us OnApple Podcast: The Powerhouse DiariesSpotify: The Powerhouse DiariesInstagram: @powerhousediaries
She Went to Sleep a Newlywed and Woke Up a Viral SensationIn this raw and wildly inspiring episode, Yaela Raber sits down with Jony Lee, creative strategist, content powerhouse, and storyteller at The Attention Seeker whose life changed overnight after a deeply personal act of love went viral.At just 20 years old, Jony shaved her head during her wedding to honor her terminally ill mother. She went to bed a newlywed and woke up with 100,000 followers and the internet’s brutal spotlight. What followed was a crash course in grief, identity, and the strange duality of social media fame.Now one of New Zealand’s most magnetic voices in digital storytelling, Jony shares how she turned pain into purpose, learned to “speak from scars, not wounds,” and built a career helping brands tell human-centered stories that actually matter.This episode is for every creative, founder, and woman who’s ever wondered what it means to be seen and what it costs.In This Episode We Discuss:00:00 - Episode trailer01:45 - The wedding day that changed everything05:10 - Shaving her head for her dying mother08:30 - Grief, humor, and love colliding in one unforgettable moment12:20 - Going viral overnight 100,000 followers in a single night17:00 - Dealing with internet hate and reclaiming her own story21:45 - The birth of The Attention Seeker and finding her creative calling26:20 - How storytelling became her healing process31:00 - “Speak from a scar, not a wound” how to share authentically online35:45 - The dark side of parasocial fame and finding real connection39:20 - The human truth behind every viral moment43:00 - Why vulnerability isn’t a performance46:30 - Breaking the fear of judgment and posting anyway50:10 - From content to sales: redefining success on her own terms55:20 - Storytelling as the heart of every powerful brand01:00:30 - Owning your story and why that’s your obligation, not an optionEpisode Resources:Guest Website: https://www.theattentionseeker.com/Guest Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jonymlee/Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jony-lee-the-attention-seeker/Follow Us On:Apple Podcast: The Powerhouse DiariesSpotify: The Powerhouse DiariesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/powerhousediaries/
She Built an App That Broke the Internet While Recovering From SurgeryIn this electrifying episode, Yaela Raber sits down with Nicole Retter, co-founder of PAM, the revolutionary app easing the invisible mental load carried by parents particularly mothers. What began as a duct-taped prototype created by a burnt-out mum has become one of the fastest-growing tools for families worldwide.Nicole opens up about the day PAM went viral while she was in the hospital recovering from surgery, the chaos of scaling overnight, and the deep personal burnout that almost broke her. Together, she and Yaela unpack the dark side of high-achieving entrepreneurship, the addiction to productivity, and how Nicole rebuilt both her health and her leadership by finally slowing down.This is a brutally honest conversation about motherhood, mental load, ADHD, and the hidden emotional toll of building something that matters and how reclaiming your own wellbeing is the ultimate act of power.In This Episode We Discuss:00:00 - Episode Trailer01:22 When the app “broke the internet” overnight03:50 The mental load parents carry and why PAM had to exist06:30 Solving a problem 20 years overdue07:56 ADHD, motherhood, and building a product for your past self10:15 From burnout to body breakdown: the wake-up call12:22 The scariest moment and the lesson it forced14:50 The addiction to doing more and how it’s rewarded17:00 Finding the line between obsession and burnout19:42 Relearning to rest the hardest skill21:20 Setting boundaries as a founder and mother23:03 The guilt of “doing it wrong” and finding grace again25:19 Recognizing the “have to” mindset as a warning sign27:20 The myth of productivity and redefining success30:10 The burnout loop: never feeling “enough”33:42 Childhood patterns and the high-achiever trap35:44 Reconnecting to the body after years of disconnection38:12 Building PAM: from wine nights to beta testing42:15 Turning messy steps into massive impact46:10 Data, safety, and protecting what matters most50:20 The lesson from her biggest business mistake54:00 Full-circle moments: from wanting kids to building PAM for parents56:00 The real measure of impact and the power of following intuitionEpisode Resources:Guest Website: https://nicoleretter.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nicoleretter/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-retter/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nicole.retter/Follow Us On:Apple Podcast: The Powerhouse DiariesSpotify: The Powerhouse DiariesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_powerhouse_alliance/Website: https://www.drdanielkirkbride.com/
From Bored to Boss: How Georgia Patten Turned Restlessness Into a MovementIn this episode, I sit down with Georgia Patten entrepreneur, podcast host, and the voice behind Bored to Boss. What started as a feeling of disconnection and frustration with the “safe path” became the catalyst for Georgia to step into entrepreneurship, build a personal brand, and create a platform that empowers young women to chase what really lights them up.We dive into Georgia’s journey of turning boredom into fuel, building a business from scratch, and the mindset shifts that helped her trade expectations for alignment. This conversation is for anyone who’s ever looked around at their life and thought, surely, there’s more than this.In This Episode We Discuss:00:00 - Episode Trailer01:15 - The moment Georgia realized she was bored with the “safe” path05:30 - How boredom can be a signal for growth and change09:40 - Launching *Bored to Boss* and creating a podcast for young women14:00 - Lessons from building a brand in real time18:30 - The role of social media in growing a movement23:00 - How to move from idea to action (without overthinking)27:45 - Navigating self-doubt and imposter syndrome32:00 - Why aligned community matters more than metrics36:15 - Turning creativity into consistency40:00 - Georgia’s advice for anyone ready to stop waiting and start buildingEpisode Resources:Guest Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/georgia.patten/?hl=enGuest Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/bored.george/?hl=enGuest Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/boredtobosspodcast/?hl=enGuest Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/50vTQvbEfenwLx4SvfXm6g?si=e8bca594ab6440aeFollow Us On:Apple Podcast:https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/the-powerhouse-diaries/id1791081472Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3ExGnkttIzhK8NMjyWLINw?si=184cc0b3c89d440fInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_powerhouse_alliance/Host Website: https://www.drdanielkirkbride.com/
From Pastor to Building Empire: Natalie Williams on Trauma, Real Estate, and Building Generational WealthIn this episode, I sit down with Natalie Williams speaker, coach, and founder of Wealth Creators whose journey has been anything but ordinary. From her early years as a pastor and suicide prevention advocate in New Zealand to becoming a luxury real estate entrepreneur in Dubai, Natalie’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and relentless ambition.We dive into the trauma and transformation that shaped her path, including losing her father, facing depression, and learning to turn pain into power. Natalie shares how she built a multi-million-dollar real estate business in one of the world’s most competitive markets, why financial literacy and wealth creation are essential for women, and the mindset shifts that allow anyone to step into their next level.This conversation is packed with practical insights, raw truth, and a powerful reminder that you are the architect of your own life.In This Episode We Discuss:00:00 - Episode Trailer01:00 - From pastor to entrepreneur: Natalie’s unlikely beginning05:00 - Losing her father, depression, and the power of forgiveness10:00 - Building resilience through grief and trauma14:00 - Creating a national suicide prevention tour18:00 - Transitioning into PR, coaching, and real estate22:00 - Pitching and winning the biggest property deal in New Zealand28:00 - Moving to Dubai: why a one-way ticket changed everything33:00 - The truth about financial freedom, wealth, and contribution38:00 - Money mindset: shifting from scarcity to abundance42:00 - Female founders, tall poppy syndrome, and building global empires48:00 - Why pain can be your greatest teacher53:00 - Final reflections: success, sacrifice, and legacyEpisode Resources:Guest Website: https://nataliewilliams.komi.io/Guest Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/nataliewilliams.coach/?hl=enGuest Instagram (Wealth Creators): https://www.instagram.com/wealthcreators.ae/?hl=enGuest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-williamsFollow Us On:Apple Podcast: The Powerhouse DiariesSpotify: The Powerhouse DiariesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_powerhouse_alliance/Host Website: https://www.drdanielkirkbride.com/
She Built One of New Zealand’s Most Iconic Restaurants And Redefined What It Means to LeadIn this episode, I sit down with Judith Tabron, legendary restauranteur and hospitality leader, whose story is one of grit, innovation, and fearless reinvention. From building and running the iconic Soul Bar & Bistro for over two decades to reimagining what life and leadership look like beyond it, Judith has consistently led from the front in one of the toughest industries in the world.We dive into how she navigated the relentless pressures of hospitality, what it really means to scale and sustain a brand over decades, and the personal toll that comes with being “always on.” Judith shares lessons in leadership, resilience, and legacy and why she believes the next chapter of her life is her boldest yet.This conversation is a rare behind-the-scenes look at an industry icon, packed with wisdom for any founder, leader, or creative building something meant to last.00:00 - Episode Trailer01:20 - Building Soul Bar & Bistro from vision to institution06:30 - The relentless grind of hospitality and leadership11:00 - Lessons in resilience: navigating setbacks and comebacks15:20 - The realities of being a woman leader in a male-dominated space20:00 - Sustaining success over two decades24:45 - The personal cost of being “always on”30:10 - Leadership lessons from hospitality that apply everywhere35:00 - Reinvention: what comes after building an empire40:15 - Judith’s advice to the next generation of women leadersGuest Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/judetabron/?hl=enGuest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judith-tabron-3a318830Apple Podcast: The Powerhouse DiariesSpotify: The Powerhouse DiariesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_powerhouse_alliance/Host Website: https://www.drdanielkirkbride.com/In This Episode We Discuss:Episode Resources:Follow Us On:
She Walked Away From the “Perfect Life” to Reclaim Her TruthChoiwee Moon built the white picket fence dream - marriage, children, career, and all the boxes checked. But beneath the surface, she was unraveling. Choosing to leave it all behind meant being cast as the villain in other people’s stories, but it was the only way to finally discover her own.In this powerful conversation, Choiwee shares what it means to burn down the illusion of perfection, heal deep-rooted trauma, and reclaim pleasure, intuition, and embodied leadership as tools for life and business. This episode is raw, real, and full of wisdom for every woman who’s ever wondered: what if the life I built isn’t the life I’m meant to live?In This Episode We Discuss:00:00 - Episode Trailer01:00 - Becoming the “villain” to save herself06:00 - Cracks in the perfect life and walking into the unknown12:00 - Surviving judgment, shame, and motherhood through upheaval18:00 - Discovering somatic practices and energy work24:00 - Nervous system regulation as the missing link in personal growth30:00 - Releasing shame around sexuality and feminine power36:00 - Pleasure as a pathway to manifestation and abundance42:00 - Redefining intimacy, self-trust, and conscious relationships48:00 - Why honoring your body is the ultimate business strategy54:00 - Final reflections: self-worth, sustainability, and liberationEpisode Resources:Guest Website: https://www.mamachowholistichealing.com/Guest Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mamachowwellnessGuest Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChoiweeGuest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/choiwee-moonFollow Us On:Apple Podcast: The Powerhouse DiariesSpotify: The Powerhouse DiariesInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_powerhouse_alliance/
She Burned Her Business to the Ground, Then Built One That Finally Worked for Her LifeIn this episode, I sit down with Lisa Oakley founder of People Associates, HR consultant, mediator, and unapologetic truth-teller whose story is equal parts survival and reinvention. From postpartum collapse, single motherhood, and rebuilding her life after betrayal, to navigating the darkest HR cases no one else wants to touch, Lisa’s journey is one of resilience, clarity, and choosing to design business and motherhood on her own terms.We dive deep into the reality of what it takes to scale a people-focused business, the toxic myths around “doing it all,” and the radical honesty required to build company culture that actually works. Lisa doesn’t sugarcoat the hard stuff and that’s exactly why this conversation is essential for every woman founder.In This Episode We Discuss:00:00 - Episode Trailer02:00 - Postpartum collapse, IVF struggles, and rebuilding after betrayal05:30 - Learning resilience: from faith to finding her superpower07:20 - Burning her business to the ground and starting again10:00 - Building People Associates and scaling with quality over quantity13:30 - Failing forward: mistakes, client chemistry, and letting go of control15:00 - The Navy Seals of HR: sexual harassment and workplace crises18:00 - Power imbalances, ethics, and the role of a mediator22:00 - How to build skin like a rhino (without losing compassion)25:00 - Motherhood, guilt, and rejecting outdated gender expectations28:00 - Outsourcing, SOPs for life, and prioritizing what actually matters30:00 - The HR myths founders get wrong33:00 - Breaking down culture: inputs, outputs, and the leadership lever36:00 - The biggest culture killers in any business38:00 - Toxic employees, feedback cultures, and why avoidance destroys teams41:00 - Practical models for feedback and conflict resolutionEpisode Resources:Guest Website: https://peopleassociates.nz/Guest Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/lisamareeoakley/Guest Instagram (People Associates): https://www.instagram.com/peopleassociates.nz/Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisamareeoakley/Follow Us On:Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/the-powerhouse-diaries/id1791081472Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3ExGnkttIzhK8NMjyWLINw?si=184cc0b3c89d440fInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_powerhouse_alliance/Host Website: https://www.drdanielkirkbride.com/
She Built New Zealand’s First Crowdfunding Platform And Changed the Game for FoundersIn this episode of The Powerhouse Diaries, Yaela Raber sits down with Anna Guenther, co-founder of PledgeMe, New Zealand’s first crowdfunding platform, to explore the radical shifts happening in how entrepreneurs raise money, find community, and scale their vision.From writing a master’s thesis on crowdfunding to building a platform that has helped thousands of founders, artists, and innovators raise millions, Anna shares the highs, lows, and pivotal lessons she’s learned along the way.This is a conversation about resilience, equity, and rewriting the rules of funding especially for women founders who have traditionally been shut out of investment opportunities. Anna also opens up about solo motherhood, building a business with heart, and why inviting people into your journey is the key to success.In This Episode We Discuss:00:00 - Episode Trailer04:08 - The master’s thesis that sparked a movement05:33 - Building PledgeMe and the first million raised07:26 - When your payment provider declares crowdfunding “illegal”09:00 - How transparency built trust in the early days11:57 - From rewards-based crowdfunding to equity investment13:43 - Why funding feels overwhelming and how to simplify it15:12 - The gender gap in venture capital18:33 - How women are raising through crowdfunding19:57 - The power of asking for help21:10 - Outsourcing your knowing vs. trusting your gut22:29 - Solo motherhood and recalibrating priorities24:17 - Building community and friendships through business25:39 - The proudest legacy of PledgeMe27:14 - Success stories: from kitchen table to global exit29:17 - Why now is still a great time to invest30:30 - Crowdfunding as the modern co-op model31:00 - Becoming a solo parent by choice33:25 - “Women can do anything, but not everything”37:25 - The $2M campaign that broke the platform39:25 - Reframing asking for money as inviting people inEpisode Resources:Guest Website: https://linktr.ee/pledgemeGuest Instagram (Personal): https://www.instagram.com/whereisannaGuest Instagram (PledgeMe): https://www.instagram.com/pledgemeGuest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annaguentherFollow Us On:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_powerhouse_alliance/Website: https://www.drdanielkirkbride.com/
She Took On Menopause Myths And Changed the Conversation for Women EverywhereIn this episode, I sit down with Niki Bezzant award-winning writer, speaker, and women’s health advocate whose work is transforming the way we talk about menopause and midlife. After decades in journalism, Niki found herself frustrated by the silence, stigma, and misinformation surrounding this crucial stage in a woman’s life. So she decided to change it.We dive into her personal and professional journey: from building one of New Zealand’s most respected health and food publications to researching and writing the groundbreaking book This Changes Everything: The Honest Guide to Menopause and Perimenopause. Niki opens up about the science, the stories, and the systemic issues that keep women in the dark—and what needs to change.This conversation is essential listening for women navigating perimenopause or menopause, and for anyone who loves, works with, or leads them. It’s practical, myth-busting, and packed with real-life advice for reclaiming this life stage as a time of power and possibility.00:00 - The Perimenopause Rebellion01:20 - Why menopause needs a PR makeover04:10 - How Niki’s journalism career led her to women’s health advocacy07:45 - Breaking the taboo: the lack of menopause education11:15 - Perimenopause symptoms women aren’t told about15:00 - The role of hormones in mental health at midlife19:40 - Workplace culture and the menopause gap23:50 - Why we need a new narrative for midlife women28:00 - The research behind This Changes Everything33:15 - Hormone therapy: separating fact from fear37:20 - How to advocate for yourself in the healthcare system41:50 - Building a supportive menopause community46:00 - Niki’s advice to women stepping into this new chapterGuest Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikibezzant/Guest Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nikibezzant/Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikibezzant/Guest Twitter/X: https://x.com/nikibezzantInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_powerhouse_alliance/
She Left Corporate To Teach Women AI And Discovered It Was Never About the TechIn this episode, I sit down with Amanda Jeffs founder of SheisAI and a fierce advocate for women stepping into the AI revolution with confidence and creativity. From navigating a career in corporate leadership to building a platform that demystifies artificial intelligence for women entrepreneurs, Amanda’s journey is proof that the most powerful transformations often begin with a leap into the unknown.We dive deep into how she went from working in male-dominated industries to creating a global learning community, why women can’t afford to sit out the AI conversation, and how embracing tech can also mean reclaiming your voice, your authority, and your place at the table.This conversation is both a practical roadmap for women wanting to integrate AI into their businesses and a powerful reminder that your value is never just in what you know but in how you use it.In This Episode We Discuss:Episode Resources:00:00 Episode Trailer01:30 Amanda’s leap from corporate to AI entrepreneurship04:20 The gender gap in AI and why it matters now more than ever08:15 Demystifying AI for non-tech women11:45 How fear of technology holds women back in business15:00 Practical AI tools to save time, money, and energy20:10 Why mindset is just as important as skillset in tech adoption24:40 Building SheisAI into a global learning platform29:00 Stories of women transforming their businesses with AI33:50 The biggest myths about AI (and the truth behind them)38:20 The intersection of creativity, confidence, and technology42:00 Amanda’s advice to women ready to embrace AI nowFollow Us On:Guest LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandajeffs/Guest Instgram:https://www.instagram.com/amandajeffsnz/?hl=enGuest Facebook Page:https://www.facebook.com/sheisaiofficialHost Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/the-powerhouse-diaries/id1791081472Host Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_powerhouse_alliance/
What does it look like to walk away from a life that looks good on the outside but is quietly destroying you from within? Rochelle Moffitt knows. After leaving an emotionally abusive marriage, losing her footing in the traditional workforce, and navigating the chaos of a blended family with six kids, Rochelle started again this time, on her terms.In this explosive and deeply human conversation, Rochelle opens up about how she built a brand with no website, launched one of New Zealand’s most exciting business events, and redefined what it means to be bankable as a woman in business. If you’ve ever questioned your worth, sat in a pile of highlighters trying to figure it out, or felt the pull toward something more this one’s for you.00:00 – Why she walked away from the life everyone else wanted04:01 – What people don’t know about starting from nothing10:45 – The truth about believing in yourself when no one’s watching18:01 – How she went from ‘hobby business’ to building a legacy23:01 – What being “bankable” really means for women in business30:01 – How she launched NZ’s boldest business event with no roadmap36:01 – Why your name is the most powerful currency you own42:01 – How to build a personal brand that actually stands out46:01 – What to do when you’re not ready… but know you need to startGuest Website: https://www.tickledpink.agency/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rochelle.was.here/?hl=enApple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/the-powerhouse-diaries/id1791081472Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3ExGnkttIzhK8NMjyWLINw?si=184cc0b3c89d440fInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_powerhouse_alliance/
In this raw and powerful conversation, Yaela sits down with Wilhelmina Shrimpton to uncover the unfiltered truth behind creative entrepreneurship. This isn’t about highlight reels. It’s about the tough moments, the emotional toll, and what it really means to keep going when everything feels like it’s falling apart. If you’re a woman building something on your own terms, this one’s for you. 💬 Key Moments & Timestamps00:00 – 03:12 | Introduction and first impressionsYaela and Wilhelmina connect over shared truths and what it means to show up fully.03:13 – 08:47 | When the dream felt like a nightmareWilhelmina shares the moment everything crashed and why that breakdown became a breakthrough.08:48 – 15:30 | Letting go of the perfection mythReal talk about releasing pressure, redefining success, and trusting the messy middle.15:31 – 22:05 | Burnout and the beauty in breaking downThe truth about hitting the wall, choosing to pivot, and building back better.22:06 – 29:40 | Finding freedom through limitsWhy restrictions sparked more creativity and clarity than chasing "limitless" ever did.29:41 – 36:15 | Love, loss and leading yourself through itWilhelmina opens up about how personal grief shaped her work and her leadership.36:16 – 42:50 | From shadow to spotlightThe internal shift that helped her own her space and show up in full power.42:51 – 48:30 | Words of advice for the female founder in the middle of the stormGrounded guidance for navigating your own version of chaos with strength and softness.Guest Website: https://www.wilsandco.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wilshrimpton/ Follow Us On:Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/the-powerhouse-diaries/id1791081472Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3ExGnkttIzhK8NMjyWLINw?si=184cc0b3c89d440fInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/the_powerhouse_alliance/
Welcome to the relaunch of The Powerhouse Diaries, a raw, rebellious, soul-stirring journey into what happens when women burn the rulebook and build something even better.If you've ever asked yourself “How the hell did I end up here... and what now?” … this is your invitation.
She Cracked the CFO Code: Candice Tait on Money Mastery, Mindset & FreedomIn this episode of The Powerhouse Diaries, Yaela Raber sits down with Candice Tait a seasoned Chief Financial Officer turned founder, investor, and financial empowerment mentor who’s on a mission to help women reclaim their power through financial fluency.From working in London’s high-stakes tech scene as a CFO surrounded by men to building a purpose-driven career in New Zealand, Candice opens up about breaking glass ceilings, redefining safety, and creating what she calls the “F*** You Fund” a savings system designed to give women true freedom of choice.This conversation dismantles money myths, explores how trauma and safety shape our financial behaviors, and reveals why understanding your numbers is the most radical act of empowerment a woman can take.We Discuss:In This Episode 00:00 - Episode Trailer02:10 - From London finance executive to female founder in New Zealand05:45 - Cracking the code of the male-dominated world of tech and private equity09:00 - Sexism in the boardroom and learning to play the game differently13:20 - The pivotal lessons from 14 company exits and multi-million-dollar acquisitions17:00 - The “F*** You Fund”: what it is and why every woman needs one20:30 - Turning scarcity into empowerment through intentional money management23:10 - Rewriting your attachment style to money27:00 - Why financial literacy is the second language every founder must speak30:20 - How to pay yourself properly as a founder (and when to start)33:50 - Why numbers tell your story and how to make them work for you38:10 - Overcoming shame and rewriting your financial narrative42:00 - Using business strategy and profit & loss as your power tools46:10 - How to bridge feminine intuition with financial confidence50:00 - The money myths that need to die and how to build true wealth on your termsEpisode Resources:Guest Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/candice_tait/Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/candice-tait-38602226/Follow Us On:Host Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yaela.raber/Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/powerhousediaries/Spotify: The Powerhouse DiariesYouTube: The Powerhouse Diaries
From Breaking Point to Breakthrough: Jody Boshoff on Reinventing Success and Building a Business With IntegrityIn this episode of The Powerhouse Diaries, Yaela Raber sits down with Jody Boshoff founder of Launch PR, communications strategist, and storyteller to unpack the raw truth behind starting over when life and business fall apart.From navigating motherhood and burnout to rebuilding her life from scratch after losing everything, Jody’s story is one of courage, reinvention, and radical self-belief. She shares how she turned crisis into creativity, walked away from corporate PR, and built an agency that thrives on transparency, results, and human connection.This episode is for every woman who’s ever hit rock bottom and wondered if she could start again. Jody proves you can and come back stronger than ever.In This Episode We Discuss:00:00 - Episode Trailer01:15 - From corporate comms to chaos: when everything collapsed at once05:20 - Bathing the kids in a bucket and the moment everything changed09:00 - Rebuilding from the ground up and redefining success12:45 - Why “having it all” nearly broke her16:10 - Building Launch PR: doing business differently20:30 - The ethics of storytelling and getting results with integrity24:00 - From invisibility to leadership: reclaiming her voice28:45 - The truth about burnout and balance33:20 - Using failure as fuel for reinvention36:40 - What it really means to be a powerhouse womanEpisode Resources:Guest Website: https://launchpr.co.nz/Guest Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jodyboshoff/Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodyboshoff/Uri Hasson TED Talk: https://www.ted.com/talks/uri_hasson_this_is_your_brain_on_communicationUri Hasson TED Talk Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FDhlOovaGrIFollow Us On:Host Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yaela.raber/Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/powerhousediaries/Spotify: The Powerhouse DiariesYouTube: The Powerhouse Diaries
In this episode, Caitlin Taylor breaks down the science of styling and how to choose pieces that truly represent YOU! She shares her journey from fashion blogger to personal stylist and founder of her own label, revealing how personal style is a powerful expression of inner confidence. Caitlin dives into the mechanics of styling, offering insights on making intentional wardrobe choices that empower individuals to feel their best. She also opens up about launching her fashion label, balancing creativity with business demands, and the importance of authenticity in both fashion and life. About our guest: Caitlin Taylor is a personal stylist and style coach with nearly 20 years of experience in the fashion industry. With degrees in psychology and journalism, she combines her expertise in style with a deep understanding of the way language and self-perception influence confidence. Caitlin is passionate about helping women appreciate their bodies, make smart wardrobe choices, and harness the power of fashion to feel amazing. Her extensive background spans both high-end designer brands and mainstream retail, equipping her with the skills to guide clients in maximizing the value of their existing wardrobes while making intentional future purchases. Based in Auckland, New Zealand, Caitlin offers her styling services both in person and online, empowering women everywhere to embrace their personal style with confidence. Follow Our Guest: Website: https://chasingcait.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CaitlinTaylor.stylist Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/CaitlinTaylor.stylist Follow Us On: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_powerhouse_alliance/** Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Episode Trailer 03:32 - From fashion blogger to stylist 05:15 - Finding your personal style 08:28 - Importance of outward expression 10:05 - Helping clients feel confident 12:43 - Navigating style transitions 17:51 - Launching a fashion label 21:47 - Challenges of starting a new business 25:41 - Maintaining presence and clarity 29:59 - Learning from mistakes 34:27 - Worst business advice received
Discover how Marissa transformed her pain into purpose through her deep connection with her Tupuna (ancestors) and a life-altering wake-up call. Learn how her parents’ separation shaped her teenage years and led her to confront her struggles head-on. Explore the realities of entrepreneurship, the pressure to conform, and the importance of self-worth—especially for women in minority cultures. Uncover Marissa’s concept of “flussel,” a balance between flow and hustle, and why honoring our natural rhythms is key to avoiding burnout. About our guest: Marissa Lewis is a dynamic confidence coach, keynote speaker, trainer, and retreat facilitator with over 20 years of experience in marketing and communications and a decade as a business owner. Passionate about empowering women, she helps them cultivate unstoppable confidence, self-leadership, and personal branding that radiates from the inside out. Marissa’s own transformative journey through trauma led her to a profound mission—supporting entrepreneurs, leaders, and innovators in overcoming self-doubt, embracing their stories, and creating fulfilling, successful lives. As the founder of Marissa Lewis International, she combines psychology, life coaching, and wellness strategies to guide individuals toward self-acceptance and business success. A dedicated author and advocate for personal growth, Marissa is committed to impacting 100 million lives by fostering healing, confidence, and purpose-driven living. Follow Our Guest: Website: https://www.marissalewis.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyeN-MKFijOIc1K6K71K_ew Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coachmarissalewisgc Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iammarissalewis/ Follow Us On: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_powerhouse_alliance/ Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Episode trailer 04:56 - Growing Up and Identity Struggles 07:26 - Navigating Pain and Self-Destruction 09:40 - The Role of Family and Support 10:40 - Reconnecting with Ancestry and Purpose 13:36 - Transforming Pain into Purpose 15:18 - The Desire for Motherhood 18:09 - The Importance of Continuous Learning 20:15 - The Balance of Hustle and Flow 23:10 - The Power of Self-Trust and Intuition 26:35 - Lessons from Business Success and Failure 28:23 - The Value of Experience and Reflection 32:06 - Finding the Sweet Spot 35:21 - Empowering Indigenous Women 38:06 - The Impact of Cultural Beliefs on Success 40:30 - The Role of Self-Worth in Business 42:30 - Navigating Mixed Heritage and Identity 49:09 - Finding Joy Amidst Burnout
Growing up in a family business gave Natasha a strong foundation in work ethic and a deep passion for empowering others—values she’s carried into her own entrepreneurial ventures. In this episode, she reflects on the lessons learned from her upbringing, the challenges she’s faced as a leader, and her mission to uplift women in the beauty industry. Natasha also opens up about how she prioritizes personal well-being amidst the demands of running a business and shares insightful advice for young female founders on trusting their instincts, embracing patience, and navigating the messy moments of entrepreneurship. About our guest: Natasha Bourke is the CEO of 200 Doors, the exclusive distributor of Dermalogica in New Zealand, and the founder of Skintopia, an innovative skin treatment salon that blends her passions for retail innovation, advanced skincare, customer experience, and holistic wellness. With a commitment to delivering exceptional results, Skintopia combines cutting-edge technology and a holistic approach to skincare. Natasha recently earned a Health Coaching certificate from the Institute of Integrative Nutrition in New York, deepening her expertise in wellness and its connection to skin health. She works closely with her team to shape business strategy while supporting and nurturing Skintopia’s talented staff across its locations, empowering individuals to achieve healthy, glowing skin. Follow Our Guest: Website: https://skintopia.co.nz/ https://www.200doors.co.nz/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natasha-bourke-a0890218/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/natasha_200doors/ Follow Us On: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_powerhouse_alliance/ Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Episode Trailer 03:02 - Growing Up in a Business Family 06:55 - The Key to Personal Growth 09:47 - Lessons from Mentors and Industry Leaders 11:55 - The Birth of Skintopia 13:44 - Challenges and Messy Moments 19:20 - Pursuing What Lights Your Soul on Fire 23:55 - Balancing Values and Growth 27:02 - Personal Wellbeing and Leadership 31:12 - Future Vision and Advice 32:52 - Reinvention and Resilience