Sweet but Fearless Podcast
Step into the world of the Sweet but Fearless podcast, your go-to weekly destination for exploring the challenges confronted by women leaders on the frontlines. With a blend of engaging interviews featuring accomplished women leaders, entrepreneurs, and industry experts along with solo episodes, you’ll gain insight and actionable advice to guide you on your fearless career journey.
info_outline
Authentic Leadership with Susannah Robinson, CEO & Founder of Partnership for Talent (S9:Epi 245)
06/30/2025
Authentic Leadership with Susannah Robinson, CEO & Founder of Partnership for Talent (S9:Epi 245)
In this episode, Mary Sullivan, co-founder of Sweet but Fearless, talks with Susannah Robinson, CEO & Founder of Partnership for Talent, about what it truly means to lead with impact through service leadership. Susannah emphasizes the importance of defining your leadership vision and leading from it with clarity and purpose. Drawing from years of guiding leaders, she reminds us that perfection isn’t the goal—authenticity is. When leaders show up as their real selves, it creates space for teams to do the same, building trust and fostering a culture of accountability. Susannah is also the author of “Beyond the Boxes and Lines: Are You Ready for the Next Step?”, where she unlocks the secrets to mastering organizational design in today’s dynamic business environment. Susannah is the founder and president of Partnership for Talent LLC. With more than 30 years of executive level leadership experience in human resources, communications, investor relations, board interaction, and business management in a variety of verticals, she works closely with you and your management team to catalyze change within your organization and support your leaders. Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, hit like, and leave a comment—we’d love to hear your thoughts! MORE ABOUT SUSANNAH ROBINSON: LinkedIn: LinkedIn: Website: Book: ABOUT SWEET BUT FEARLESS: Website - LinkedIn -
/episode/index/show/sweetbutfearless/id/37214645
info_outline
The Leadership Mirror with Valarie Sandjivy, founder of EllipsUS (S9:Epi 244)
06/23/2025
The Leadership Mirror with Valarie Sandjivy, founder of EllipsUS (S9:Epi 244)
In this episode, Mary Sullivan, co-founder of Sweet but Fearless, talks with Valarie Sandjivy, founder of EllipsUS. As a seasoned leadership mentor and business coach with over 20 years of experience guiding leaders through growth and change, she empowers today’s leaders to lead themselves and others with empathy, agility, and fresh thinking. Valarie believes that true leadership starts within - because you can't lead others until you know how to lead yourself. Somewhere along the way, we were taught that focusing on ourselves is selfish, but the opposite is true. Self-awareness is strength, and asking for support is a sign of wisdom, not weakness. Valarie Sandjivy is an adaptive leadership mentor and business coach with over 20 years of experience. She combines her corporate expertise with a creative, intuitive approach to leadership, helping clients build scalable systems while fostering personal and professional transformation. With a deep commitment to evolving leadership and empowering others, Valarie inspires lasting and meaningful change in both business and life. Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, hit like, and leave a comment—we’d love to hear your thoughts! MORE ABOUT VALARIE SANDJIVY: LinkedIn: Website: Blog: ABOUT SWEET BUT FEARLESS: Website - LinkedIn -
/episode/index/show/sweetbutfearless/id/37109585
info_outline
From Corporate to Unexpected Entrepreneur with Melissa Franks, founder of On Call COO (S9:Epi 243)
06/16/2025
From Corporate to Unexpected Entrepreneur with Melissa Franks, founder of On Call COO (S9:Epi 243)
In this episode, Mary Sullivan, co-founder of Sweet but Fearless, talks with Melissa Franks, founder of On Call COO, a fractional COO company. Melissa talks about her journey from corporate executive to entrepreneur and how aligning business goals with personal vision is key to sustainable success. She suggests that when looking to make a career pivot, you should ask yourself: 1) What does my life need to look like right now? 2) What does the next year need to look like? 3) What will my life look like once my goals are achieved. Melissa doesn’t believe in waiting for the right opportunity. She believes in creating it, and part of that comes from knowing how influence really works. If there’s a decision you’re trying to move forward at work, find out who’s influencing the decision-maker. That’s where your relationship-building should start. As a Fractional COO, Melissa provides part-time operational leadership and expertise. In 2022, she left corporate life with a mission to support small businesses with pragmatic approaches to unique problems and a healthy dose of optimism that all businesses can be successful with the right people, doing the right things at the right time. Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, hit like, and leave a comment—we’d love to hear your thoughts! MORE ABOUT MELISSA FRANKS: LinkedIn: Website: ABOUT SWEET BUT FEARLESS: Website - LinkedIn -
/episode/index/show/sweetbutfearless/id/37020010
info_outline
Do It Scared: The Entrepreneurial Path with Jensen Savage, Founder Savage Growth Partners (S9:Epi 242)
06/09/2025
Do It Scared: The Entrepreneurial Path with Jensen Savage, Founder Savage Growth Partners (S9:Epi 242)
In this episode, Mary Sullivan, co-founder of Sweet but Fearless, talks with Jensen Savage, founder of Savage Growth Partners, for an honest conversation about what it really takes to start your own business. From embracing fear to finding your niche, Jensen shares her journey and the lessons she’s learned along the way. They talk about the entrepreneurial spirit, the power of carving your own path, and why waiting until you're "ready" might hold you back. Jensen’s advice? Do it scared—because clarity often comes from action, not perfection. As the founder of Savage Growth Partners, Jensen has led marketing campaigns that have driven tens of millions in revenue across industries. Her work has been featured in Forbes, Yahoo! Finance, Wired, and Inc., and she’s recognized for her hands-on leadership, strategic insights, and results-driven approach. Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, hit like, and leave a comment—we’d love to hear your thoughts! MORE ABOUT JENSEN SAVAGE: LinkedIn: Website: ABOUT SWEET BUT FEARLESS: Website - LinkedIn -
/episode/index/show/sweetbutfearless/id/36912535
info_outline
Fuel Your Life: Why Success Starts with Sleep and Nutrition with Dr. Tiffany Watson, a nutrition and performance specialist (S9:Epi 241)
06/02/2025
Fuel Your Life: Why Success Starts with Sleep and Nutrition with Dr. Tiffany Watson, a nutrition and performance specialist (S9:Epi 241)
In this episode, Mary Sullivan, co-founder of Sweet but Fearless, talks with Dr. Tiffany Watson, Owner of Dr. Tiff’s Fuel. Sweat. Science, about the often-overlooked connection between health, ambition, and sustainable success. Dr. Watson shares practical tips for finding balance in a world that glorifies hustle, and reminds us that if we're not careful, career growth can come at the cost of our well-being. From fueling your body with the right nutrition to making sleep a non-negotiable, this conversation is your reminder that peak performance starts with taking care of yourself - mind, body, and rest. Dr. Watson is an experienced Performance Coach and entrepreneur with a demonstrated history of working in the health wellness and fitness industry. Skilled in prevention, employee wellness, nutrition, training, and exercise physiology. Dr. Watson is a Performance Nutrition Director at MPOWER Performance Institute. Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, hit like, and leave a comment—we’d love to hear your thoughts! MORE ABOUT DR. TIFFANY WATSON: LinkedIn: Website: Instagram: ABOUT SWEET BUT FEARLESS: Website - LinkedIn -
/episode/index/show/sweetbutfearless/id/36811785
info_outline
The Right Time to Pivot with Sara Fay Egan, President and CEO of Beale Street Blues Company (S9:Epi 240)
05/25/2025
The Right Time to Pivot with Sara Fay Egan, President and CEO of Beale Street Blues Company (S9:Epi 240)
In this episode, Mary Sullivan, co-founder of Sweet but Fearless, talks with Sara Fay Egan, President and CEO of Beale Street Blues, about the power of pivots, both in life and in career. Life doesn’t always go according to plan, actually, it rarely does. From surprise career twists to family emergencies and all the curveballs in between, it can sometimes feel like happiness is just out of reach. But what if you could find joy, even in the chaos? Mary and Sara explore how to recognize the seasons of life, trust your timing, and know when it’s time to shift direction. This honest conversation is a reminder that change isn’t something to fear. It’s often the key to uncovering what truly fulfills you. Sara Fay is president and CEO of Beale Street Blues Company, a Hospitality and Restaurant Group and Entertainment Company. Her understanding of all aspects of the hospitality industry has elevated her to a sought-after expert in the field. Her experiences in event planning and starting and owning businesses, combined with her life experiences, inspired her to write her debut book, “”. Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, hit like, and leave a comment—we’d love to hear your thoughts! MORE ABOUT SARA FAY EGAN: LinkedIn: Website: Website: Instagram: BOOK: ABOUT SWEET BUT FEARLESS: Website - LinkedIn -
/episode/index/show/sweetbutfearless/id/36705330
info_outline
Confused Girl in the City with founder and best-selling author, Giovanna Silvestre (S9:Epi 239)
05/19/2025
Confused Girl in the City with founder and best-selling author, Giovanna Silvestre (S9:Epi 239)
In this episode, Mary Sullivan, co-founder of Sweet but Fearless, talks with Giovanna Silvestre, founder of the Confused Girl in the City brand and best-selling author. Giovanna opens up about embracing confusion as a path to clarity, sharing how women can train their brains to move beyond fear and self-doubt. She talks of the power of letting go of toxic positivity - the pressure to appear happy when you’re not and instead lean into curiosity and self-discovery. With humor and honesty, Giovanna offers guidance to help you reconnect with your true self and start building a life that actually fits. Giovanna is the author of, Confused Girl: Find Your Peace in the Chaos, part memoir, part guidebook, empowering women of all ages to navigate a rapidly changing world with clarity and confidence. Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, hit like, and leave a comment—we’d love to hear your thoughts! MORE ABOUT GIOVANNA SILVESTRE: LinkedIn: Website: Instagram: BOOK: ABOUT SWEET BUT FEARLESS: Website - LinkedIn -
/episode/index/show/sweetbutfearless/id/36620540
info_outline
Using AI to Shape Your Next Chapter with Dr. Joan Palmiter Bajorek, CEO of Clarity AI and Best Selling Author (S9:Epi 238)
05/12/2025
Using AI to Shape Your Next Chapter with Dr. Joan Palmiter Bajorek, CEO of Clarity AI and Best Selling Author (S9:Epi 238)
In this episode, Dr. Joan Palmiter Bajorek—AI entrepreneur, author of Your AI Roadmap, and CEO of Clarity AI—joins Mary Sullivan, co-founder of Sweet But Fearless, to talk about how to future-proof yourself after a layoff, build a strong personal brand, and work the long game in your career. Joan shares practical strategies for navigating uncertainty, staying resilient, and using AI as a tool to support your goals—not replace them. She offers insight into how AI can help you create a personalized roadmap and pull all the pieces together with clarity and purpose. Dr. Bajorek is an American entrepreneur, linguist, and influencer. She founded Women in Voice, a non-profit 501 organization for women in voice technology and is the CEO of Clarity AI, an AI and software company. Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, hit like, and leave a comment—we’d love to hear your thoughts! MORE ABOUT DR. JOAN PALMITER BAJOREK: LinkedIn: Website: Podcast: BOOK: ABOUT SWEET BUT FEARLESS: Website - LinkedIn -
/episode/index/show/sweetbutfearless/id/36528415
info_outline
When It's Time to Move On: Starting Your Second Act with Shannon Russell, CEO and Founder of Second Act Success (S9:Epi 237)
05/05/2025
When It's Time to Move On: Starting Your Second Act with Shannon Russell, CEO and Founder of Second Act Success (S9:Epi 237)
In this episode, Mary Sullivan, co-founder of Sweet but Fearless, chats with Shannon Russell, CEO and Founder of Second Act Success, about how saying "yes" to new opportunities can open exciting new paths for women leaders. Shannon shares her journey from a successful career in entertainment to entrepreneurship, helping women confidently pivot toward more fulfilling careers and lives. If you're feeling uninspired or unfulfilled in your current career, this conversation could be exactly what you need to spark your next move. When your mind, heart, and dreams no longer fit your current path, it’s time to start your second act. Shannon’s new book, Starting Your Second Act (out May 7th), is your ultimate guide to pivot with purpose, reinvent your career, and create your best life. Tune in for inspiration and next steps! Shannon Russell is a former TV producer turned entrepreneur and career/business coach, and understands the fears and challenges of disrupting your carefully planned career and taking the leap into something more. Drawing on her personal experiences and the success stories of other women, she shares her proven three-step Second Act Strategy (reflect, research, realize) to guide you from where you are now to where you want to be. Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, hit like, and leave a comment—we’d love to hear your thoughts! MORE ABOUT SHANNON RUSSELL: LinkedIn: LinkedIn: Website: Podcast: BOOK: ABOUT SWEET BUT FEARLESS: Website - LinkedIn -
/episode/index/show/sweetbutfearless/id/36431900
info_outline
Seeing the Whole Board: A Leader’s SWOT Advantage with Stacey Linderman, President of CFO Services (S9:Epi 235)
04/20/2025
Seeing the Whole Board: A Leader’s SWOT Advantage with Stacey Linderman, President of CFO Services (S9:Epi 235)
At a certain point in your leadership journey, success isn’t about doing more—it’s about seeing more. In this episode, Mary Sullivan, a co-founder with Sweet but Fearless talks with Stacey Linderman, CFO Specialist and President of CFO Services, who shares why stepping back is one of the most strategic moves a leader can make. Stacey explores how letting go of day-to-day tasks opens the door to stronger decision-making, bigger-picture thinking, and better use of your team’s strengths. Stacey discusses her go-to leadership tool—a tailored SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) approach—and how she uses it to gain clarity, bring in outside perspectives, and navigate change with confidence. As the founder of A6 Financial and Business Optimization, Stacey provides CFO services that go beyond the numbers, offering strategic insights, financial strategies, and operational efficiencies that drive profitability. Her goal is to help businesses achieve financial clarity and sustainable growth. Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, hit like, and leave a comment—we’d love to hear your thoughts! MORE ABOUT STACEY LINDERMAN: Website: LinkedIn: ABOUT SWEET BUT FEARLESS: Website - LinkedIn -
/episode/index/show/sweetbutfearless/id/36238210
info_outline
The Silent Grief of Career Loss with Laverne McKinnon, Career Strategist and Speaker (S9:Epi 234)
04/08/2025
The Silent Grief of Career Loss with Laverne McKinnon, Career Strategist and Speaker (S9:Epi 234)
Today, we're unpacking something rarely acknowledged: career grief. Imagine being at the top of your game, feeling unstoppable — then suddenly, it’s all gone. That’s what happened to Laverne McKinnon, Career Strategist and Speaker. Losing her job wasn’t just a professional setback; it felt like losing a part of herself. Her identity had been so deeply intertwined with her career, and when it ended, she was left with a sense of loss. Laverne calls it disenfranchised grief — a silent grief that society often overlooks because "it’s just work." But it’s not just work. It’s purpose, it’s pride, it’s identity. And when it's ripped away, you deserve to grieve it. You’re allowed to feel that loss, process it, and then — when you're ready — pivot toward what’s next. Remember: honoring your grief is the first step to finding your next chapter. Laverne McKinnon is a certified grief counselor, leadership and personal coach, and former film and television producer. In her role as an adjunct professor at Northwestern University, Laverne's course on Persuasion & Pitching has propelled students to excel, fostering a culture of innovation and strategic thinking. Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, hit like, and leave a comment—we’d love to hear your thoughts! MORE ABOUT LAVERNE MCKINNON: Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: YouTube: ABOUT SWEET BUT FEARLESS: Website - LinkedIn -
/episode/index/show/sweetbutfearless/id/36047540
info_outline
Team Burnout Starts Quiet—Here’s How to Stay in Front of It (S9:Epi 233)
03/31/2025
Team Burnout Starts Quiet—Here’s How to Stay in Front of It (S9:Epi 233)
In this episode, Mary and Cooper, co-founders of Sweet but Fearless, dig into what really drives a team - performance, morale, and the connections that hold everything together. The #1 reason employees leave their jobs? It’s not salary—it’s feeling unappreciated or disconnected. We’ll help you recognize when a team is starting to struggle, whether it’s missed deadlines, low energy, or lack of collaboration. From small shifts in leadership style to everyday check-ins that actually matter, we’re sharing practical tips to create a healthier, more motivated work environment. Whether you’re leading a team or part of one, this episode is packed with insights to help you build stronger relationships, boost morale, and keep people engaged. Because when people feel supported and seen, they stick around—and they do their best work. Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, hit like, and leave a comment—we’d love to hear your thoughts! ABOUT SWEET BUT FEARLESS: Website - LinkedIn -
/episode/index/show/sweetbutfearless/id/35931280
info_outline
From Zero to $200K—The Power of Affiliate Marketing with Whitney Bonds (S9:Epi 232)
03/24/2025
From Zero to $200K—The Power of Affiliate Marketing with Whitney Bonds (S9:Epi 232)
What if you could build a six-figure income without creating your own product? In this episode, Mary Sullivan of Sweet but Fearless sits down with Whitney Bonds, the CEO and Founder of Tried and True Mom Jobs, to uncover one of the most overlooked (but seriously powerful) ways to make money online: affiliate marketing. Whitney gets real about how she turned her struggles into solutions, launching a low-cost, flexible income stream that now brings in over $200K a year—all while supporting her family and designing a life she loves. She didn’t chase trends or quick wins. She built trust. She showed up with purpose. And she’s sharing how you can do the same. 💡 Why affiliate marketing is perfect for busy people 💬 How simple, everyday conversations can turn into income (without feeling “salesy”) 🚀 The steps she took to go from $0 to full-time freedom If you're dreaming of financial independence, time freedom, or simply want to start a side hustle that actually works—this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable tips to help you get started on your own terms. Whitney Bonds is the Founder and CEO of Business Expedited a membership designed to help future entrepreneurs find their business idea, grow it and monetize it. If you found this episode inspiring, please subscribe, like, and leave a comment. MORE ABOUT WHITNEY BONDS: Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: YouTube: ABOUT SWEET BUT FEARLESS: Website - LinkedIn -
/episode/index/show/sweetbutfearless/id/35832540
info_outline
Market Your Genius and Build Your Brand with Nikki Nash, Investor, Entrepreneur and Author (S9:Epi 231)
03/17/2025
Market Your Genius and Build Your Brand with Nikki Nash, Investor, Entrepreneur and Author (S9:Epi 231)
In this episode, Mary Sullivan, co-founder of Sweet but Fearless, talks with Nikki Nash, Investor, Entrepreneur, and Author, about the power of taking shots and making bold moves. She shares how she learned to take a leap of faith—not just in her career but in building her personal brand. Because let’s be real, success isn’t just about what you do at work; it’s about who you are and how you position yourself. Nikki dives into why relationship-building is key—people need to know you, not just your team. Visibility matters, and if no one knows what you bring to the table, opportunities can pass you by. She also drops some serious wisdom on money-making as a skill and how success isn’t random—it’s strategic. One of her most powerful tips? Your calendar should reflect your goals. If someone looked at your schedule, they should see exactly what you’re working toward. It’s all about staging your day with intention. Get ready to take notes—you won’t want to miss this conversation. Nikki is a veteran marketer, long-time entrepreneur, and speaker who has helped business that generate $35M in annual revenue down to coaches making their first dollar. Before entrepreneurship, she worked at various companies where she had experience working with such brands as Intel, InStyle, Travel + Leisure, and Louis Vuitton MOET Hennessy. If you found this episode inspiring, please subscribe, like, and leave a comment. MORE ABOUT NIKKI NASH: Website: LinkedIn: Podcast: Book: ABOUT SWEET BUT FEARLESS: Website - LinkedIn -
/episode/index/show/sweetbutfearless/id/35718245
info_outline
Struggling with Balance? How to Choose Where Your Energy Goes. (S9:Epi 230)
03/10/2025
Struggling with Balance? How to Choose Where Your Energy Goes. (S9:Epi 230)
Struggling to juggle it all? In this episode, Cooper Alexander and Mary Sullivan, co-founders of Sweet but Fearless, dive into the art of balancing priorities—because let’s be real, there’s never enough time for everything, but there’s always time for what truly matters. We’ll break down how to identify what deserves your energy, set boundaries without guilt, and stay focused without burning out. Whether you're managing a career pivot, building a business, or just trying to have a life outside the hustle, this episode is your reminder that balance isn’t about doing it all—it’s about doing what counts. Tune in and start prioritizing with purpose! If you found this episode inspiring, please subscribe, like, and leave a comment. ABOUT SWEET BUT FEARLESS: Website - LinkedIn -
/episode/index/show/sweetbutfearless/id/35602045
info_outline
Unlocking Luxury Travel with Sandy Saburn, Chief Strategic Alliances Officer (S9: Epi 229)
03/03/2025
Unlocking Luxury Travel with Sandy Saburn, Chief Strategic Alliances Officer (S9: Epi 229)
In this episode, Mary Sullivan, co-founder of Sweet but Fearless, talks with Sandy Saburn, Chief Strategic Alliances Officer at Gifted Travel Network, about the ever-evolving world of luxury travel. With a background as a career coach, marketing expert, and business consultant, Sandy made a bold leap into the travel industry—and now she’s helping others do the same. She shares insider insights on why more people are choosing to work with travel advisors, how the industry has shifted toward curated, experience-driven travel, and why today’s most sought-after trips go beyond what’s Googleable. If you’ve ever dreamed of working in travel, she also breaks down how to get started as an advisor or entrepreneur in the field. Life is short—so why wait to book those dream experiences? Sandy Saburn is the Chief Strategic Alliances Officer at Gifted Travel Network (GTN), a fast-growing, female-led company in the high-end travel industry and innovative host agency in the travel industry. If you found this episode inspiring, please subscribe, like, and leave a comment. MORE ABOUT SANDY SABURN LinkedIn: Website: FREE: ABOUT SWEET BUT FEARLESS: Website - LinkedIn -
/episode/index/show/sweetbutfearless/id/35504970
info_outline
Party to Profits with Marley Majcher, CEO of the Party Goddess and bestselling author
02/24/2025
Party to Profits with Marley Majcher, CEO of the Party Goddess and bestselling author
In this episode, Mary Sullivan, co-founder of Sweet but Fearless, talks with Marley Majcher, CEO of the Party Goddess and bestselling author, about her journey into the world of party planning and how it led to a thriving entrepreneurial career. This episode is all about embracing change, trusting your instincts, and creating opportunities even when the path isn’t clear. Marley Majcher is the CEO of The Party Goddess!, a nationally acclaimed full-service event planning and catering company. From understated elegance to rock star fabulous, she is known for creating the most talked-about parties of the year for a client list ranging from top-tier businesses to A-list celebrities such as Snoop Dogg, Sofia Vergara, and Britney Spears. If you found this episode inspiring, please subscribe, like, and leave a comment. MORE ABOUT MARLEY MAJCHER LinkedIn: Website: Podcast: Book: ABOUT SWEET BUT FEARLESS: Website - LinkedIn -
/episode/index/show/sweetbutfearless/id/35400695
info_outline
If You Were In Charge with Sanam Narashi Anderlini MBE, founder and CEO of ICAN (S9:Epi 227)
02/12/2025
If You Were In Charge with Sanam Narashi Anderlini MBE, founder and CEO of ICAN (S9:Epi 227)
In this episode, Mary Sullivan, co-founder of Sweet but Fearless, talks with Sanam Naraghi Anderlini MBE, founder and CEO of ICAN, about her incredible 24-year journey in shaping strategies to tackle conflict, crises, and violent extremism. As a passionate and dynamic peace strategist, she’s worked with civil society, governments, and the UN to create real, meaningful change. Sanam is the founder and CEO of the International Civil Society Action Network (ICAN), where she leads the groundbreaking Women’s Alliance for Security Leadership (WASL)—a powerful coalition of independent, women-led organizations in 40 countries dedicated to preventing violence and advancing peace, rights, and pluralism. If you found this episode inspiring, please subscribe, like, and leave a comment. MORE ABOUT SANAM NARAGHI ANDERLINI LinkedIn: Website: Podcast: Book: ABOUT SWEET BUT FEARLESS: Website - LinkedIn -
/episode/index/show/sweetbutfearless/id/35251365
info_outline
Exploring Software Quality Assurance and Career Opportunities with Kseniia Duplyakin with Learnix Tree Center (S9:Epi 226)
02/03/2025
Exploring Software Quality Assurance and Career Opportunities with Kseniia Duplyakin with Learnix Tree Center (S9:Epi 226)
In this episode, Mary Sullivan, co-founder of Sweet but Fearless, talks with Kseniia Duplyakin, Sr. QA Analyst with Learnix Tree Center about opportunities as a Software Quality Assurance. From testing software for bugs to ensuring a seamless user experience, SQA professionals play a vital role in delivering high-quality products. Kseniia talks about the skills needed, tools used, and different career paths within QA, including manual testing, automation testing, and performance testing. Kseniia Duplyakina is an expert in Automated Software Testing. She has a degree in Computer Science from Odessa Polytechnic University, Ukraine. Since moving to the USA, she quickly became an industry leader in designing and implementing Quality Assurance processes for software solutions for government and commercial projects as a QA Architect and Product Owner. Kseniia brings her years of experience to her students at Learnix Center, where she designed the “Automated Testing Tools” course for the Software Quality Assurance program. If you found this episode inspiring, please subscribe, like, and leave a comment. MORE ABOUT KSENIIA DUPLYAKINA LinkedIn: Website: ABOUT SWEET BUT FEARLESS: Website - LinkedIn -
/episode/index/show/sweetbutfearless/id/35123095
info_outline
A Glimpse into the World of PR with Marcy Clark, Founder & President of Marcy Clark PR & Events (S9:Epi 225)
01/22/2025
A Glimpse into the World of PR with Marcy Clark, Founder & President of Marcy Clark PR & Events (S9:Epi 225)
In this episode, Mary Sullivan, co-founder of Sweet but Fearless, talks with Marcy Clark, Founder and President of Marcy Clark PR & Events about the art of storytelling, sharing how she crafts compelling narratives that elevate brands and resonate with audiences. Marcy reveals how her success stems from creating opportunities where none existed and pushing boundaries in the PR world. As a key member of Visionary Mafia, a vibrant networking platform for entrepreneurs and startups, Marcy offers advice on building authentic connections and using storytelling to stand out in today’s competitive landscape. Don’t miss this inspiring masterclass in creativity and innovation! Marcy is a dynamic and results driven PR professional who possesses the ability to cultivate long lasting client relationships and curate a brand’s reputation. A full-cycle transcontinental consultant with a proven track record in tier one media placement, newsworthy events, client retention and storytelling with a specialty of positioning clients as experts If you found this episode inspiring, please subscribe, like, and leave a comment. MORE ABOUT MARCY CLARK LinkedIn: Website: Website: ABOUT SWEET BUT FEARLESS: Website - LinkedIn -
/episode/index/show/sweetbutfearless/id/34951165
info_outline
What’s Your Bounce-Back Ability with Kim Ades, President FOM Coaching (S9:Epi 224)
01/13/2025
What’s Your Bounce-Back Ability with Kim Ades, President FOM Coaching (S9:Epi 224)
In this episode, Mary Sullivan, co-founder of Sweet but Fearless, talks with Kim Ades, President FOM Coaching, about emotional resilience and the mental strength needed to achieve anything you set your mind to. By distinguishing between failure and a failed experience, you can shift your focus to the lessons learned along the way instead of the failure itself. Kim also shares her belief in the transformative power of journaling in creating a sense of self-awareness and recognizing your habit of thought. Step into the driver’s seat of your life’s journey with Kim’s inspiring insights. Kim is the Founder of Frame of Mind Coaching. Author, speaker, entrepreneur, coach, and mom of five, Kim’s claim to fame is teaching her powerful coaching process to leaders, executives and entrepreneurs worldwide. Kim has been a featured speaker for organizations including Microsoft, TEC, Vistage, PMI, WIT, SHRM and more. If you found this episode inspiring, please subscribe, like, and leave a comment. MORE ABOUT KIM ADES LinkedIn: Website: FREE: ABOUT SWEET BUT FEARLESS: Website - LinkedIn -
/episode/index/show/sweetbutfearless/id/34829895
info_outline
Whole You: A Journey to Holistic Health with Rachelle Davis, a holistic health coach (S8:Epi 223)
01/06/2025
Whole You: A Journey to Holistic Health with Rachelle Davis, a holistic health coach (S8:Epi 223)
In this episode, Mary Sullivan, co-founder of Sweet but Fearless, talks with Rachelle Davis, a holistic health coach, as she shares her personal story and transformative insights on achieving wellness through a balanced approach to mind, body, and soul. Whether you're starting your wellness journey or looking for inspiration, this conversation offers a fresh perspective on holistic health. Rachelle is a certified holistic health coach with a BS in Health Science and once suffered from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. She has always had an interest in healing through food and natural remedies. If you found this episode inspiring, please subscribe, like, and leave a comment. MORE ABOUT LinkedIn: Website: ABOUT SWEET BUT FEARLESS: Website - LinkedIn -
/episode/index/show/sweetbutfearless/id/34734130
info_outline
Crafting Your Story: The Journey from Artist to Entrepreneur with Kimberly Gilroy, Co-Founder of Alfa Charlie (S8:Epi 222)
12/24/2024
Crafting Your Story: The Journey from Artist to Entrepreneur with Kimberly Gilroy, Co-Founder of Alfa Charlie (S8:Epi 222)
In this episode, Mary Sullivan, co-founder of Sweet but Fearless, talks with Kimberly Gilroy, co-founder of Alfa Charlie, to discuss her journey from artist to entrepreneur. Kimberly shares her passion for creating something uniquely her own and helping others uncover and share their authentic stories. Her ability to find strength in simplicity highlights the importance of stepping back from our complex, high-tech world and reconnecting with what truly matters. Whether working with a business owner seeking to refresh their brand or a startup ready to make a global impact, Alfa Charlie’s mission is clear: to guide clients through uncertainty, helping them refine their brand identity, clarify their purpose, and map out their future direction. If you found this episode inspiring, please subscribe, like, and leave a comment. MORE ABOUT Kimberly Gilroy LinkedIn: Website: ABOUT SWEET BUT FEARLESS: Website - LinkedIn -
/episode/index/show/sweetbutfearless/id/34601355
info_outline
From Wanting More to Creating It: The Story of a Wellness Founder with Tammy Nevin, Founder of Happy Sol Wellness (S8:Epi 221)
12/17/2024
From Wanting More to Creating It: The Story of a Wellness Founder with Tammy Nevin, Founder of Happy Sol Wellness (S8:Epi 221)
In this episode, Mary Sullivan, co-founder of Sweet but Fearless, talks with Tammy Nevin, Founder of Happy Sol Wellness, who turned her passion for self-care into a thriving wellness company. Tammy shares her journey of transformation, the joys and challenges of entrepreneurship, and how focusing on her own wellness became the foundation for helping others do the same. This is a celebration of purpose, passion, and the power of putting yourself first. Tammy created Happy Sol with a vision: to make wellness accessible, affordable, and easy to incorporate into everyday life. Inspired by her own need for flexible, at-home solutions, Tammy set out to build a brand that makes wellness not only approachable but genuinely fun. If you found this episode inspiring, please subscribe, like, and leave a comment. MORE ABOUT TAMMY NEVIN LinkedIn: Website: Instagram: Facebook: TikTok: More about Tammy’s journey and Happy Sol: ABOUT SWEET BUT FEARLESS: Website - LinkedIn -
/episode/index/show/sweetbutfearless/id/34480320
info_outline
Emotional Resilience: Be in the Zone with Jacqueline Hofste, Leadership Coach and Best-Selling Author (S8:Epi 220)
12/09/2024
Emotional Resilience: Be in the Zone with Jacqueline Hofste, Leadership Coach and Best-Selling Author (S8:Epi 220)
In this episode, Mary Sullivan, co-founder of Sweet but Fearless, talks with Jacqueline Hofste, Leadership Coach and Best-Selling Author, about emotional intelligence and navigating life’s challenges with strength and flexibility. Discover how being committed to your goals while releasing attachment to specific outcomes can lead to personal growth and fulfillment. Whether you’re chasing a career milestone, building a business, or seeking inner peace, this conversation will equip you with tools to stay grounded, bounce back from setbacks, and transform challenges into opportunities. Tune in to cultivate resilience and live a purpose-driven, joyful life. Jacqueline is a highly experienced ontological leadership coach who supports others in their quest to become confident, authentic and intuitive leaders who find deep meaning and purpose in their work. A background in senior corporate leadership roles combined with a master’s degree in physics and coaching qualifications ensure she brings a unique combination of science, intuitive leadership practices and ontology to her role as coach and facilitator for transformative outcomes. If you found this episode inspiring, please subscribe, like, and leave a comment. MORE ABOUT JACQUELINE HOFSTE LinkedIn: Website: Podcast/YouTube: Book: ABOUT SWEET BUT FEARLESS: Website - LinkedIn -
/episode/index/show/sweetbutfearless/id/34342650
info_outline
You’re More Confident Than You Think with Sheena Yap Chan, a Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author (S8:Epi 219)
12/02/2024
You’re More Confident Than You Think with Sheena Yap Chan, a Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author (S8:Epi 219)
In this episode, Mary Sullivan, co-founder of Sweet but Fearless, talks with Sheena Yap Chan, a Wall Street Journal bestselling author, keynote speaker, strategist, and award-winning podcaster renowned for her expertise in elevating leadership and self-confidence through media. Her debut book, , is a Wall Street Journal and Publishers Weekly bestseller. It is also recognized as one of the top 20 best self-confidence books of all time by Book Authority. Sheena is dedicated to closing the gender confidence gap through her training and programs, aiming to elevate women into leadership roles across all industries. She has delivered impactful speeches for organizations like Live Nation, NASA, and UKG, sharing her insights on self-confidence and leadership. If you found this episode inspiring, please subscribe, like, and leave a comment. MORE ABOUT LinkedIn: Website: Webside: Podcast: Books: ABOUT SWEET BUT FEARLESS: Website - LinkedIn -
/episode/index/show/sweetbutfearless/id/34225655
info_outline
We Need to Tell Our Stories with Dr. Natoshia Anderson, STEM Advocate and Author (S8:Epi 218)
11/26/2024
We Need to Tell Our Stories with Dr. Natoshia Anderson, STEM Advocate and Author (S8:Epi 218)
In this episode, Mary Sullivan, co-founder of Sweet but Fearless, talks with Dr. Natoshia Anderson, CEO & Founder Nerdy Brain, STEM Advocate, and Author, about her journey from Mechanical Engineer turned award-winning STEM educator and STEM gender equity/diversity and inclusion advocate. She explores the power of setting boundaries and openly communicating them with those around you and the importance of being confident in sharing your story and standing firm in your personal truths. Dr. Anderson, has an incredible background in STEM and STEM Education. She has been able to parlay her career as a Mechanical Engineer, Engineering and Math Educator, and CEO of Nerdy STEM Queens, for the advancement of STEM in many different areas including a podcast, STEMming in Stilettos, that highlights the stories of women of color in STEM. If you found this episode inspiring, please subscribe, like, and leave a comment. MORE ABOUT LinkedIn: Website: Podcast: BOOKS: ABOUT SWEET BUT FEARLESS: Website - LinkedIn -
/episode/index/show/sweetbutfearless/id/34151800
info_outline
Beautiful, Unique, Fearless, Female by Leslie Gordon Christie, Entrepreneur and CEO of BUFFnation (S8:Epi 217)
11/18/2024
Beautiful, Unique, Fearless, Female by Leslie Gordon Christie, Entrepreneur and CEO of BUFFnation (S8:Epi 217)
In this episode, Mary Sullivan, co-founder of Sweet but Fearless, talks with Leslie Gordon Christie, Entrepreneur and CEO of BUFFnationa, about her journey from broadcasting to fitness and personal development and her passion for helping others. Leslie shares powerful insights on mindset, visualization, and affirmations to achieve personal goals. She reminds us that growth comes with challenges, but progress matters more than perfection. Leslie has more than two decades of experience in the entrepreneurship space and has worked with some of the best motivational speakers in the personal development world. Leslie is also a Certified Consultant with the Proctor Gallagher Institute, a Culinary Nutrition Specialist, and a certified personal trainer and lifestyle coach. If you found this episode inspiring, please subscribe, like, and leave a comment. MORE ABOUT LinkedIn: Website: Book: ABOUT SWEET BUT FEARLESS: Website - LinkedIn -
/episode/index/show/sweetbutfearless/id/33968327
info_outline
Position Yourself for Opportunity with Ilana Wechsler, Founder of Teach Traffic (S8:Epi 216)
11/11/2024
Position Yourself for Opportunity with Ilana Wechsler, Founder of Teach Traffic (S8:Epi 216)
In this episode, Mary Sullivan, co-founder of Sweet but Fearless, talks with IIana Wechsler, Founder of Teach Traffic and Pay Per Click Marketing expert about her transition from the corporate world to forging her path as an entrepreneur. She dives into her journey of resilience and grit, sharing hard-won insights on creating opportunities where luck can find you and developing the courage to overcome self-doubt. From building multiple income streams to pushing through fears and embracing new challenges, she shares her blueprint for success and offers valuable tips. Ilana Wechsler is a Pay Per Click (PPC) Marketing Professional with over 15 years’ experience in Information Technology working for many large international corporations. She started her career as a Data Analyst and transitioned to becoming a full-fledged PPC expert. She has worked at many of the global financial institutions but switched when she finally gave in to her passion for PPC, IT, and entrepreneurship. If you found this episode inspiring, please subscribe, like, and leave a comment. MORE ABOUT ILANA WECHSLER LinkedIn: Website: YouTube: Instagram: ABOUT SWEET BUT FEARLESS: Website - LinkedIn -
/episode/index/show/sweetbutfearless/id/33873617
info_outline
From Blank Page to Brilliant Plan with Lisa Carlin, Founder of The Turbochargers (S8:Epi 215)
11/04/2024
From Blank Page to Brilliant Plan with Lisa Carlin, Founder of The Turbochargers (S8:Epi 215)
In this episode, Mary Sullivan, co-founder of Sweet but Fearless, talks with Lisa Carlin, Founder of The Turbochargers (formally Future Builders Group) about her journey in transforming workplace culture and becoming an impactful change leader. Change leadership, she emphasizes, goes beyond simply implementing processes; it's rooted in a commitment to self-reflection, curiosity, and asking open-ended questions that drive deeper insights. Lisa highlights the importance of focusing not only on the bottom line but also on cultivating growth within individuals, oneself, and the broader community. Lisa is a Strategy Execution Specialist, helping business leaders navigate challenging environments to turn their ambitious goals into reality. She offers consulting, coaching, and training to ensure long-term success, including execution-focused bootcamps for leaders. She’s the author of , a newsletter reaching 8,000 business leaders. Lisa also runs the Turbochargers Hub, a resource center for mastering strategy execution. Her career includes roles at McKinsey and Accenture, then founding her own business since 1999. If you found this episode inspiring, please subscribe, like, and leave a comment. MORE ABOUT LISA CARLIN LinkedIn: Website: YouTube: FREE – FREE - ABOUT SWEET BUT FEARLESS: Website - LinkedIn -
/episode/index/show/sweetbutfearless/id/33769112