BEYOND BARRIERS

Beyond Barriers
  • 5.0 (158)
  • CAREERS
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BEYOND BARRIERS

If you are an ambitious woman who wants to dominate your career, then the Beyond Barriers podcast is for you. Discover why traditional career strategies are outdated, what skills are growing in demand, and how to stand up and stand out in the workplace. In each episode, we interview industry influencers, and business leaders from top corporations who share their perspective on opportunities and challenges in the digital age. From inspiring stories to cutting-edge strategies, you’ll learn how to develop the skillset, mindset and toolset to accelerate your career success.

  1. Episode 345: Authenticity Over Approval: Becoming Who You Already Are

    6D AGO

    Episode 345: Authenticity Over Approval: Becoming Who You Already Are

    What if the real key to success isn’t in following the path—but in rewriting it entirely? In this episode, Salma Gottfried shares how she built a remarkable, multi-decade career by choosing authenticity over approval at every turn. From her early days as a modern dancer in Mexico City to leading high-profile marketing campaigns for global brands like Procter & Gamble and Gatorade, Salma has made bold moves fueled by creativity, purpose, and self-trust. You’ll hear how she navigated inflection points with courage, why she left a successful corporate role to rediscover her creative voice, and how that leap led her to co-found Beautiful Beast, a cross-cultural agency redefining how brands connect through culture. Tune in to learn how to trust your instincts, take intentional risks, and lead with authenticity—no matter where you are in your career journey. Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with our special guest. The key moments in this episode are: [00:00] Introduction to Beyond Barriers Podcast [00:27] The Importance of Authenticity [01:20] Guest Introduction: Salma Gottfried [03:00] Salma's Career Journey [04:47] Lessons from Mentors [08:33] Founding Beautiful Beast [11:03] Navigating Career Inflection Points [15:38] The Role of Mentors in Career Growth [23:01] Building a Personal Brand [26:18] Cultivating Resilience [29:19] Daily Rituals and Goal Setting [32:19] Advice to My Younger Self [38:35] Lightning Round and Final Thoughts

    43 min
  2. Episode 344: Confidence Through Competence: Navigating Risk with Resilience

    MAR 26

    Episode 344: Confidence Through Competence: Navigating Risk with Resilience

    Confidence isn’t something you’re born with—it’s built through effort, resilience, and a relentless commitment to growth. In this episode, you’ll hear how Leah Emkin, Chief Client Officer at Wilshire, went from not knowing what an RFP writer was to leading client teams at one of the most respected financial firms. Her story is proof that when you show up, stay curious, and do the hard work, you don’t just survive—you thrive. Leah shares the mindset shifts and daily habits that helped her grow into a trusted leader, the power of staying in your lane while playing to your strengths, and how to handle rejection without losing momentum. If you’ve ever questioned whether you belong in the room or wondered how to lead with both empathy and grit, this conversation will give you the real talk—and reassurance—you need. Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with our special guest. The key moments in this episode are: [00:00] Introduction to Beyond Barriers Podcast [00:27] Building Confidence Through Competence [01:07] Meet Leah Emkin: A Journey of Hard Work and Curiosity [03:48] Leah's Role and Responsibilities at Wilshire [05:16] Embracing Openness and Curiosity [12:42] Navigating Challenges and Building Resilience [16:48] Overcoming Limiting Beliefs and Imposter Syndrome [21:39] Gaining Perspective with Age [22:41] Daily Habits for Success [24:52] Navigating Parenthood and Flexibility [25:32] Building Strategic Relationships [26:49] The Importance of Mentorship [28:28] Women Supporting Women in Investments [29:44] Leveraging Community and Networks [30:51] Embracing Discomfort for Growth [33:23] Advice for Job Seekers [34:52] Lightning Round and Final Thoughts

    39 min
  3. Episode 343: The People Plug: Leading Through Community and Connection

    MAR 12

    Episode 343: The People Plug: Leading Through Community and Connection

    Success isn’t a solo journey—it’s built through relationships, opportunities, and the courage to show up for others. In this episode, Corinne Milien, Founder & CEO of WRK, shares how she built a career rooted in impact, connection, and leadership. A first-generation American, military veteran, and four-time founder, Corinne’s journey has taken her from the Air Force to working with legendary coach Pat Summitt, from managing high-profile events at ESPN to launching businesses that elevate people. Whether she’s advocating for diversity in sports, creating mentorship pipelines, or building an inclusive golf community, she’s proving that the right connections can change everything. Tune in to learn how to harness the power of relationships, why community is the ultimate leadership advantage, and how to step into your own influence—no matter where you are in your career. Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with our special guest. The key moments in this episode are: [00:00] Introduction to Beyond Barriers Podcast [00:27] The Power of Community [01:27] Meet Corinne Millen: A Journey of Determination [06:08] Leadership Lessons from Pat Summit [07:52] Military Service and Leadership [09:57] Navigating Corporate and Military Cultures [15:57] The People Plug: Building Connections [18:48] Golf and Networking: Breaking Traditions [23:11] Overcoming Imposter Syndrome [28:22] The Importance of In-Person Connections [29:40] Daily Rituals and Habits [35:36] Setting and Achieving Goals [42:33] Building and Relying on Community [45:56] Lightning Round and Final Thoughts

    52 min
  4. Episode 342: Beyond Boardrooms: The Real Value of Community in Venture Capital

    FEB 26

    Episode 342: Beyond Boardrooms: The Real Value of Community in Venture Capital

    For decades, venture capital has been built around financial returns and rapid growth—but what if the true measure of success was the strength of the community behind it? In this episode, KT McBratney, General Partner and Head of Community at Renew Venture Capital, shares how they are challenging the traditional VC model and proving that impact and investment can go hand in hand. KT’s career has been anything but traditional. From journalism to marketing to launching startups, they have navigated multiple industries by embracing curiosity, leading with empathy, and building networks that empower people. Now, they’re bringing that same mindset to venture capital—reshaping how firms operate, prioritizing inclusive investing, and ensuring that founders get the support they need beyond just funding. She also hosted Founded on Purpose, a podcast that spotlighted entrepreneurs proving that business can be a tool for change. Find out why the best businesses are shifting toward trust, inclusion, and collaboration for long-term success. KT breaks down how investors, founders, and leaders can embed community into their work, and why the best businesses are the ones that put people first. Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with our special guest. The key moments in this episode are: [00:00] Introduction to Beyond Barriers Podcast [00:27] The Importance of Communication in Relationships [01:07] Revolutionizing Venture Capital with KT McBrandtny [02:58] KT McBrandtny's Nonlinear Journey [04:39] The Role of General Partner and Head of Community [06:51] Leadership and Management: A Personal Perspective [10:56] Founders and Leadership in Modern Times [12:55] Personal Branding and Authenticity [16:01] Resilience and Confidence in Entrepreneurship [17:52] Celebrating Wins and Rewards [19:10] About the Founded on Purpose Podcast [20:26] The Importance of Team Dynamics [20:41] Balancing Founder and Investor Mindsets [21:39] Overcoming Limiting Beliefs and Imposter Syndrome [23:16] The Power of Taking Breaks and Reflection [25:24] Daily Habits and Finding Rhythm [28:34] Building and Maintaining Relationships [31:17] Innovating in Venture Capital [33:50] Lightning Round and Final Thoughts

    36 min
  5. Episode 341: Mistakes Make Momentum: The Art of Failing Forward

    FEB 12

    Episode 341: Mistakes Make Momentum: The Art of Failing Forward

    In this episode, you’ll hear the extraordinary journey of Jenni Lewis, a trailblazing leader in diversity, equity and inclusion, who turned every setback into a stepping stone. From starting her career in the mailroom at J.P. Morgan to becoming the Global Inclusion and Diversity Lead at Block, Jenni has built a career defined by bold moves, reinvention, and an unwavering commitment to authenticity. She shares how she took a leap from finance to marketing, launched a podcast before podcasting was mainstream, and even faced professional consequences for daring to center LGBTQ+ voices. Along the way, she learned that embracing discomfort and failing forward are the true catalysts for growth. Jenni also opens up about a life-altering wake-up call—a helicopter crashing onto her office building—that forced her to rethink her career, relationships, and purpose. Whether you’re navigating a career pivot, stepping into leadership, or looking for the courage to take that next big risk, this episode will challenge and inspire you to rethink failure and see it as an essential part of success. Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with our special guest. The key moments in this episode are: [00:00] Introduction to Beyond Barriers Podcast [01:00] Introducing Jenni Lewis: Breaking Barriers [03:49] Jenni's Journey: From Mailroom to Marketing [08:59] Embracing Failure and Finding Gratitude [16:03] The Role of Inclusion and Diversity in Leadership [20:03] Why Jenni Chose Block [24:11] Introduction to Momentum Metric Quiz [24:39] Navigational Skills Gap in First-Generation Professionals [25:01] Generational Differences in Workforce Integration [26:04] Strategic Career Advancement for Women and People of Color [27:15] Challenges in Networking and Soft Skills Development [31:16] Imposter Syndrome and Leadership Journey [34:31] Aha Moments and Personal Transformation [38:18] Reflection and Grounding Moments [40:32] Lightning Round and Final Thoughts

    46 min

  6. JAN 29

    Episode 340: The Courage to Pivot: Finding Purpose Beyond the Corporate Ladder

    In this episode, explore the transformative power of embracing change with Trisha Daho, founder of Empowered Leadership Cultivation. Trisha opens up about leaving the security of a corporate leadership role to pursue her passion for building equitable and inclusive workplaces. Learn how self-reflection, mindset shifts, and courage can help you move beyond the limits of traditional career paths to create a life that aligns with your values and ambitions. From lessons in resilience to building meaningful relationships and thriving in uncertain times, Trisha offers a candid and inspiring roadmap for finding your purpose. If you’ve ever questioned whether you’re on the right path or wondered what it takes to pivot toward something new, this episode is for you. Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with our special guest. The key moments in this episode are: [00:00] Introduction to Beyond Barriers Podcast [01:03] Meet Trish Daho: A Journey of Courage [02:11] Trish's Career Transformation [03:36] The Importance of Self-Reflection [04:47] Discovering True Passion and Alignment [06:26] Embracing Leadership and Excellence [08:06] Building a Personal Brand [14:56] Resilience and Overcoming Challenges [18:57] Daily Habits for Success [20:57] Creating Space for Strategic Thinking [21:44] Dealing with Setbacks [25:08] The Importance of In-Person Interactions [28:31] Building Strategic Relationships [35:06] Empowered: Culture and Leadership Development [37:04] Lightning Round and Final Thoughts

    40 min
  7. Episode 339: Success Through Integrity: Leadership Grounded in Core Values

    JAN 15

    Episode 339: Success Through Integrity: Leadership Grounded in Core Values

    In this episode of Beyond Barriers, you’ll discover the transformative power of values-based leadership with Jackie Edmundson. Jackie shares her inspiring journey from selling sodas as a child entrepreneur to leading a cutting-edge performance marketing company. Guided by loyalty, genuine relationships, accountability, fun, and winning, Jackie has built a leadership philosophy rooted in empathy and authenticity. Jackie opens up about navigating tough decisions, such as team restructurings during challenging economic times, and explains how staying true to her values has helped her deliver bad news with compassion and respect. She also dives into the importance of fostering a positive team culture, celebrating small wins, and leading with transparency to build trust and drive success. Whether you're a rising professional or a seasoned leader, this episode will empower you to align your actions with your values, embrace courageous conversations, and lead with integrity Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with our special guest. The key moments in this episode are: [00:00] Introduction to Beyond Barriers Podcast [01:29] Jackie's Early Entrepreneurial Journey [02:29] The Importance of Communication [04:56] Aligning Career with Values [11:10] Building Confidence and Overcoming Fear [18:07] Transitioning to Leadership Roles [22:46] Authentic Leadership and Building Your Tribe [23:34] Breaking Down Barriers with Tough Leaders [24:49] The Power of Asking for Help [26:47] Staying Grounded as a CEO [30:52] Building Your Personal Brand [33:25] Lightning Round and Final Thoughts

    45 min
  8. Episode 338: Balancing Career and Motherhood: A New Definition of Success for Ambitious Moms

    JAN 1

    Episode 338: Balancing Career and Motherhood: A New Definition of Success for Ambitious Moms

    In this episode of Beyond Barriers, you’ll hear a transformative conversation about balancing career ambition with the responsibilities of motherhood. Mel Goodman, a former corporate leader turned entrepreneur, shares her candid journey of navigating the challenges of building a career while raising two young daughters. Mel recounts how she reached her breaking point, burned out, and then rebuilt her life by embracing the idea of becoming the CEO of her own life. You’ll learn about her powerful inside-out approach to redefining success, grounded in clarity, alignment with values, and a mindset shift toward prioritizing what truly matters. Mel discusses the realities of the mental load, societal pressures, and unspoken biases working moms face—and how she created WorkMom to help other women thrive without compromising their ambition or fulfillment. If you’re ready to reclaim your time, focus, and confidence, this episode is for you. Visit our website where you will find show notes and links to all the resources in this episode, including the best way to get in touch with our special guest. The key moments in this episode are: [00:00] Introduction to Beyond Barriers Podcast [00:26] Redefining Success: A Personal Journey [01:03] Challenges of Working Mothers [01:18] Mel Goodman's Story [03:10] Balancing Career and Motherhood [05:04] The Impact of COVID-19 [06:25] Realizations and New Beginnings [08:42] The Grow Framework [11:15] Integrating Life and Career [13:06] The Importance of Reflection and Clarity [19:10] Building Confidence and Resilience [23:17] Entrepreneurial Journey [25:06] Identifying the Need for a New Perspective on Working Motherhood [26:12] Building Confidence and Resilience as an Entrepreneur [26:18] Daily Habits and Rituals for Success [28:39] Balancing Work and Family Without Childcare [29:59] Empathy and Support for Working Parents in the Workplace [35:56] The Importance of Networking and Mentorship [46:17] Lightning Round and Final Thoughts

    47 min
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About

If you are an ambitious woman who wants to dominate your career, then the Beyond Barriers podcast is for you. Discover why traditional career strategies are outdated, what skills are growing in demand, and how to stand up and stand out in the workplace. In each episode, we interview industry influencers, and business leaders from top corporations who share their perspective on opportunities and challenges in the digital age. From inspiring stories to cutting-edge strategies, you’ll learn how to develop the skillset, mindset and toolset to accelerate your career success.

Information

  • Creator
    Beyond Barriers
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    347
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2024 by Beyond Barriers
  • Show Website
    BEYOND BARRIERS

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