BUT FIRST, SHE FAILED - Career Growth, Women Entrepreneurs, Overcoming Imposter Syndrome, Growth Mindset, Confidence

Do you ever struggle with imposter syndrome when it comes to your career or business? Wish you had unshakable confidence no matter who’s in the meeting? Ever wonder how those wildly successful women got to where they are today? What if I told you that every one of them had moments of “failure” would failure seem less scary to you? What if "failure" is part of the journey towards success and purpose? Welcome to the BUT FIRST, SHE FAILED podcast. In this podcast you will learn practical tips on how to develop the boss woman within you to excel with confidence in your career and business. Hear candid conversations with trailblazing women that are dominating in their fields as industry leaders, entrepreneurs, influencers and more. Learn as they share wisdom, strategies and get vulnerable about how moments of “failure” propelled them to where they are today. Hi! I’m Paola Soares:) I’m a former Journalist and National News Producer that has had stories appear on Univision, Telemundo ABC News among others. While working in news my favorite stories were always profile pieces that helped and inspired. I started this podcast because I’m passionate about helping women gain confidence in their careers, businesses and overcome the fear failing that many times can be holding them back from living the life of their dreams. Because I’ve been there. I remember: + being in meetings with CEO’s, Anchors, and other high level bosses and being too nervous and second guessing myself so much that I wouldn’t speak up and share an idea that I really felt was a great one. + Thinking that I was nothing like those boss women that I looked up, that they had never struggled and I was the only one that had setbacks. + Being let go from what I thought was dream job and feeling like like I was a "failure" and struggling to move past it till I had a life-changing realization. Now I’m taking my love of story telling and combining it with something that is on my heart, helping women overcome fear of failing and gain confidence when it comes to their careers, businesses and callings. Stop second guessing yourself and become the boss woman that deep down inside you know you are supposed to become. Shake off that discouragement, it’s not too late, you are not behind! If you are ready for your boss-woman breakthrough this podcast is for you! Get ready to get inspired!

150. 40 Lessons at 40: Mindset, Purpose & Confidence for Your Next Chapter (Birthday Episode + Giveaway 11/19/2025

150. 40 Lessons at 40: Mindset, Purpose & Confidence for Your Next Chapter (Birthday Episode + Giveaway Birthday Episode + Giveaway on the But First, She Failed podcast. In this powerful conversation, Paola shares 40 Lessons at 40, offering the mindset shifts, purpose insights, calling breakthroughs, and growth lessons that have shaped her over the last decade. Through career pivots, moments of fear, seasons of uncertainty, motherhood, identity work, faith, and building a top 1% podcast, Paola has gathered wisdom she now pours back into her community — especially women navigating purpose, clarity, and reinvention. This episode is designed for anyone who feels stuck, behind, or on the edge of a new chapter and needs encouragement, strategy, and hope. This episode serves as a blueprint for anyone that wants a breakthrough in their future. Whether you’re 25, 35, 45 or beyond, Paola’s reflections remind listeners that they are not behind — they’re becoming. And the next chapter can be the most meaningful one yet. 🎉 BIRTHDAY GIVEAWAY (Celebrating Paola’s 40th!) To celebrate her birthday, Paola is giving away a FREE 30-minute 1:1 coaching session redeemable anytime in 2026. To enter: 1️⃣ Leave a written review on Apple Podcasts 2️⃣ Screenshot it 3️⃣ Tag Paola on Instagram so she can see it Your review helps the show reach more women stepping into their purpose — thank you for celebrating with Paola! JOIN THE DECEMBER 15 DREAMING CALL Host Paola Soares is also leading the final FREE Accountability Community call of the year on December 15 — a reflective and powerful Dreaming Call. Listeners will walk through guided journal prompts to help them: ✏️ Gain clarity for 2026 ✏️ Identify goals, dreams & next steps ✏️ Discern what God is stirring in their hearts ✏️ Prepare for their next chapter with intention This is the last free call before the January launch of The Purpose Co. Accountability Community. ✅ 💻 Let’s Connect: 📲 Instagram: 🌐 Website: ▶️ Follow on YouTube: 📩 /episode/index/show/butfirstshefailed/id/39090615

149. 3 Ways Worrying Is Sabotaging Your Growth (and What to Do Instead) 11/11/2025

148. 3 Types of Burnout (and What They’re Really Telling You) 11/05/2025

147. A Decade of Failing Forward Into Faith: Paola Soares on Overcoming Fear and Finding Purpose with Johanna Mäkilä-Manninen 10/22/2025

147. A Decade of Failing Forward Into Faith: Paola Soares on Overcoming Fear and Finding Purpose with Johanna Mäkilä-Manninen ✨ Special Episode: From Failure to Faith — Paola’s Interview on The Vibrant Flow Podcast ✨ This week on But First, She Failed, host Paola Soares shares something a little different. Recently, she was invited to be a guest on 🎙️ The Vibrant Flow Podcast with Johanna Mäkilä-Manninen —a friend of But First, She Failed. Paola loved Johanna’s thoughtful questions and the authentic flow of their conversation so much that she asked if she could share it here with you. 💛 In this inspiring interview, Paola opens up about her decade-long journey of overcoming fear of failure, healing from shame, and learning to fail forward into faith. She shares behind-the-scenes moments from her career in national news, the painful season of being let go, and how God used that experience to redirect her toward her true calling—helping women step boldly into the purpose He designed for them. 🌿 🌸 About The Vibrant Flow Podcast: Hosted by Johanna Mäkilä-Manninen—a multi-passionate artist, women’s coach, English MA graduate, mama, and wife—The Vibrant Flow Podcast is for the ambitious, faith-led woman ready to step fully into her calling, unapologetically and in full feminine flow. The show blends faith-based coaching, feminine leadership, and creative personal branding to help women break free from shame, self-sabotage, and comparison while elevating their God-given expression. 🎧 Go listen: The Vibrant Flow Podcast for the full interview! In this episode only part of the full episode is shared so if you enjoyed make sure to go to The Vibrant Flow Podcast to listen to the rest of the convesation! Johanna is also about to launch her 12-Week Personal Branding Incubator—links to both below! 💬 Community Update: The next Community Accountability Call is happening in early November! 🙌 It’s designed for women who feel unfulfilled professionally and sense God calling them to step into something new—whether that’s launching a business, starting a brand, or pursuing a deeper sense of purpose. You’ll receive live coaching, feedback, and encouragement from Paola and a circle of like-minded women who will cheer you on every step of the way. (Sign-up link in the show notes!) 🌿 In This Episode: • Overcoming fear of failure and redefining success through faith • Healing from shame and finding identity in God • Navigating comparison and imposter syndrome • Feminine strength, calling, and purpose • Learning to pause, trust God’s timing, and walk in your unique assignment ✨ Connect with Johanna: 🎧 Listen to the full interview on The Vibrant Flow Podcast: 👉 💖 Follow Johanna on Instagram: 👉 🌸 Learn more about Johanna’s 12-Week Personal Branding Incubator: 👉 💻 Let’s Connect: 👯‍♀️ Join the FREE BFSF Accountability Community Call! If you’re ready to get out of your head and finally start walking in the purpose God has for you, this is your chance to do it with community. During this 1-hour session, you’ll connect with like-minded women, share what you’re working on, get live coaching and encouragement, and gain clarity around your calling so you can take bold next steps. 💡 Spots are limited — and this may be one of the last times I offer this call for free before transitioning into a membership community. Don’t miss the chance to be part of it! ✅ 📲 Instagram: 🌐 Website: 🎙 Book a Mentorship Session: 📩 Join the Weekly Newsletter + Take the Boss Woman Profile Quiz: ▶️ Follow on YouTube: ✨ FREE RESOURCE: 6 SIGNS YOU ARE OR AREN'T WALKING IN YOUR GOD-GIVEN CALLING --> paolasoares.com/calling /episode/index/show/butfirstshefailed/id/38738170

146: The Power of Mindset: How Founder Ayana Rodriguez Partnered with the World’s Top Luxury Hotels 10/15/2025

146: The Power of Mindset: How Founder Ayana Rodriguez Partnered with the World’s Top Luxury Hotels What does it take to build a brand that earns the trust of the world’s most prestigious hotels — and do it in an industry where you’re often the only woman, only Latina, or only woman of color in the room? In this powerful episode, Ayana Rodriguez, founder of ITAVI, shares how she transformed a simple idea about intentional childcare into a premium service now partnered with Four Seasons, Waldorf Astoria, 1 Hotel, Eden Roc, and more. From her early days running a children’s boutique to becoming the CEO of an award-winning company, Ayana’s journey is a masterclass in perseverance, vision, and courage. She opens up about how she refused to let labels or stereotypes define her path — choosing instead to focus on the mission, the solution, and the people she was called to serve. Through this conversation, you’ll learn: ✨ How to develop the mindset that keeps you moving forward — even when you feel like you don’t belong. 🏨 The power of strategic partnerships and how to position your brand for success in elite spaces. 💡 Why emotional intelligence and community support are critical for scaling your business. 🌱 How to reframe failures as lessons that fuel growth and resilience. 🤝 The importance of leveraging your village — in parenting, business, and beyond. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned businesswoman, this conversation will inspire you to dream bigger, push past fear, and pursue opportunities that once felt out of reach. Because your identity isn’t a barrier — it’s your superpower. Connect with Ayana: IG: IG: 👯‍♀️ Join the FREE BFSF Accountability Community Call! ( Nov. 5th) If you’re ready to get out of your head and finally start walking in the purpose God has for you, this is your chance to do it with community. During this 1-hour session, you’ll connect with like-minded women, share what you’re working on, get live coaching and encouragement, and gain clarity around your calling so you can take bold next steps. 💡 Spots are limited — and this may be one of the last times I offer this call for free before transitioning into a membership community. Don’t miss the chance to be part of it! ✅ 💻 Let’s Connect: 📲 Instagram: 🌐 Website: 🎙 Book a Mentorship Session: 📩 Join the Weekly Newsletter + Take the Boss Woman Profile Quiz: ▶️ Follow on YouTube: /episode/index/show/butfirstshefailed/id/38588035

145. $1Billion Impact: How Latina CEO Jacqueline Basulto Built a Thriving Agency from $200 10/08/2025

144. How to Discover Your God-Given Calling and Purpose 10/01/2025

144. How to Discover Your God-Given Calling and Purpose Have you ever wondered what you were truly created to do? Maybe you’ve climbed the career ladder, switched roles, or even launched a business—yet you still feel empty inside, like something’s missing. Or perhaps you’re in a season of transition after being let go and you’re asking God, “What is my true calling?” If so, this episode of the But First, She Failed Podcast is for you. In this episode, Paola Soares unpacks how to discover your God-given calling and shares practical steps to help you uncover the unique purpose God created you for. Through biblical truth and real-life examples, she explores the difference between a job, career, and calling, and how your gifts, passions, and even your pain can point you toward your divine purpose. You’ll also learn why prayer, community, and taking action are essential in walking out your calling. ✨ In this episode you’ll discover: How to pray, fast, and journal to seek clarity on your God-given calling Why your natural giftings and passions reveal what makes you come alive How your pain and struggles can become a purposeful part of your calling The role of mentors, accountability, and community in confirming your gifts Why obedience and imperfect action open doors to your God-given destiny If you’ve been searching for clarity on God’s plan for your life, this episode will equip and encourage you to take the next step in uncovering your true calling. 👯‍♀️ Join the FREE BFSF Accountability Community Call! (Nov. 5th) If you’re ready to get out of your head and finally start walking in the purpose God has for you, this is your chance to do it with community. During this 1-hour session, you’ll connect with like-minded women, share what you’re working on, get live coaching and encouragement, and gain clarity around your calling so you can take bold next steps. 💡 Spots are limited — and this may be one of the last times I offer this call for free before transitioning into a membership community. Don’t miss the chance to be part of it! ✅ 💻 Let’s Connect: 📲 Instagram: 🌐 Website: ▶️ Follow on YouTube: Email: 💖 Loved this Episode? Please subscribe, leave a 5-star review, and share it with your ambitious friends! Screenshot and tag Paola on IG to be featured. /episode/index/show/butfirstshefailed/id/38409600

143.Why Community & Accountability Are Crucial for Successfully Walking in God-Given Calling 09/23/2025

143.Why Community & Accountability Are Crucial for Successfully Walking in God-Given Calling Are you trying to pursue your God-given calling all on your own? If so, you may be setting yourself up for unnecessary struggle. In this episode of But First, She Failed, Paola Soares shares why community and accountability are crucial to successfully walking in your God-given purpose. We’ll dive into the powerful role that accountability plays in helping you stay consistent, why isolation can lead to burnout and doubt, and how surrounding yourself with the right people can accelerate your growth and keep you faithful to the assignment God has placed on your life. If you’ve been wondering why your calling feels heavy, lonely, or overwhelming, this episode will encourage you to stop walking alone and embrace the support God has for you through community. 💡 You’ll learn: Why accountability helps you stay consistent in your purpose How community can sharpen, encourage, and equip you for success The secret to long-term faithfulness and growth in your calling 🎧 Whether you’re pursuing a career, business, or ministry, this conversation will help you understand why no one fulfills their calling alone—and why community is key to true success. 👯‍♀️ Join the FREE BFSF Accountability Community Call! (Nov 5th) If you’re ready to get out of your head and finally start walking in the purpose God has for you, this is your chance to do it with community. During this 1-hour session, you’ll connect with like-minded women, share what you’re working on, get live coaching and encouragement, and gain clarity around your calling so you can take bold next steps. 💡 Spots are limited — and this may be one of the last times I offer this call for free before transitioning into a membership community. Don’t miss the chance to be part of it! ✅ 💻 Let’s Connect: 📲 Instagram: 🌐 Website: ▶️ Follow on YouTube: Email: 💖 Loved this Episode? Please subscribe, leave a 5-star review, and share it with your ambitious friends! Screenshot and tag Paola on IG to be featured. /episode/index/show/butfirstshefailed/id/38326020

142. 6 Signs You’re Walking in Your God-Given Calling (or Not) 09/16/2025

141. Career, Business, or Calling? Discover The Differences & Which One To Focus On 09/10/2025

141. Career, Business, or Calling? Discover The Differences & Which One To Focus On Do you have a career you’ve worked hard to build? Maybe you’ve stepped out and started a business? But deep down, you still wonder if you’re truly walking in your God-given calling… In this episode of But First, She Failed, Paola unpacks the difference between building a career, running a business, and living out your true calling. Because here’s the truth: careers and businesses are good, but they will never fully satisfy if they’re not aligned with the purpose God uniquely designed for you. You’ll discover: ✨ Why careers bring growth but can leave you restless if they’re your only focus. ✨ The freedom and risk that come with owning a business—and why success alone can feel empty. ✨ How walking in your God-given calling brings lasting fulfillment, direction, and peace, no matter what season of life or work you’re in. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Am I meant for more?” or wondered if you’re truly living the life God called you to, this episode will challenge and inspire you. Walking in your calling isn’t just important—it’s essential. It’s the key to unlocking your greatest impact, deepest joy, and the kind of success that actually matters. 👯‍♀️ Join the FREE BFSF Accountability Community Call! (Nov. 5th) If you’re ready to get out of your head and finally start walking in the purpose God has for you, this is your chance to do it with community. During this 1-hour session, you’ll connect with like-minded women, share what you’re working on, get live coaching and encouragement, and gain clarity around your calling so you can take bold next steps. 💡 Spots are limited — and this may be one of the last times I offer this call for free before transitioning into a membership community. Don’t miss the chance to be part of it! ✅ 💻 Let’s Connect: 📲 Instagram: 🌐 Website: ▶️ Follow on YouTube: Email: 💖 Loved this Episode? Please subscribe, leave a 5-star review, and share it with your ambitious friends! Screenshot and tag Paola on IG to be featured. /episode/index/show/butfirstshefailed/id/38153150

140. Why Some Small Businesses Need a Fractional CFO, Not Just an Accountant with Danielle Hendon 08/27/2025

140. Why Some Small Businesses Need a Fractional CFO, Not Just an Accountant with Danielle Hendon Are your small business finances keeping you up at night? In this episode of But First, She Failed, Paola sits down with Danielle Hendon, Fractional CFO and founder of Four Corners CFO, to break down how entrepreneurs can gain financial clarity, prevent burnout, and finally start paying themselves with confidence. Danielle explains the key differences between an accountant and a fractional CFO, and why having a CFO on your team can completely transform your business. You’ll learn how fractional CFOs bring big business strategies to small businesses, why understanding your numbers empowers better decision-making, and the crucial steps every entrepreneur should take to prioritize profit. Whether you’re a creative business owner, a founder in growth mode, or an entrepreneur tired of financial stress, this episode will give you actionable tools to make smart money moves and build a sustainable business you love. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The difference between an accountant and a fractional CFO Why financial clarity prevents burnout and fuels growth How to pay yourself and prioritize profit Big business strategies that work for small business owners Why work-life balance and smart money habits go hand-in-hand Connect with Danielle: Get the free Guide mentioned here: 👯‍♀️ Join the FREE BFSF Accountability Club Call (Sept) If you're ready to get out of your own head and into community, come connect with other like-minded women pursuing clarity and purpose. We'll share what we’re working on, where we’re stuck, and encourage one another. It’s completely FREE! ✅ Fill out the Accountability Club interest form here: 👉 💻 Let’s Connect: 📲 Instagram: 🌐 Website: 🎙 Book a Mentorship Session: 📩 Join the Weekly Newsletter + Take the Boss Woman Profile Quiz: ▶️ Follow on YouTube: /episode/index/show/butfirstshefailed/id/37974795

139. How to Translate Skills Across Industries & Build Your Network Like A Boss with Career Coach and Fractional HR Executive Kate Sargent 08/13/2025

139. How to Translate Skills Across Industries & Build Your Network Like A Boss with Career Coach and Fractional HR Executive Kate Sargent Want to plan your next career move without the stress? In this episode, executive coach and HR consultant Kate Sargent shares how to navigate career transitions strategically, build a powerful support network, and use networking to open new opportunities. We cover the rise of fractional HR services, how to approach negotiation with confidence and kindness, and ways to translate your skills across industries. Kate also explains how to craft a cohesive personal brand that tells your story and attracts the right roles. You’ll Learn: Why the fractional HR model is a game-changer for small businesses. How to plan a career pivot without waiting for a crisis. Networking strategies that actually work. Negotiation tips that leave relationships stronger. How to translate your skills across industries. The power of a cohesive career narrative. Kate sits down with host Paola Soares to break down actionable strategies for effective networking, confident negotiation, and crafting a cohesive career narrative that helps you stand out in any industry. She also explains how to translate your skills across different fields, position your personal brand for success, and turn failures into opportunities for growth. Packed with practical tips, this conversation will equip you with the tools you need to navigate change, expand your network, and create a career path that aligns with your strengths and values. Connect with Kate: 👯‍♀️ Join the FREE BFSF Accountability Club Call (Sept) If you're ready to get out of your own head and into community, come connect with other like-minded women pursuing clarity and purpose. We'll share what we’re working on, where we’re stuck, and encourage one another. It’s completely FREE! ✅ Fill out the Accountability Club interest form here: 👉 💻 Let’s Connect: 📲 Instagram: 🌐 Website: 🎙 Book a Mentorship Session: 📩 Join the Weekly Newsletter + Take the Boss Woman Profile Quiz: ▶️ Follow on YouTube: /episode/index/show/butfirstshefailed/id/37793000