Smart Women Talking

In this episode, we dive into the inspiring journey of Senator Julia Coleman, the youngest woman ever elected to the Minnesota State Senate. Julia shares how she navigated pregnancy, motherhood, and ambitious leadership with authenticity, resilience, and unwavering faith in herself. Her story is a powerful reminder that motherhood does not disqualify you from leading - it fuels your fire to make a...

Unlock the secret behind the confidence divide that’s holding countless women back - not from a lack of ability, but from years of silent messaging planted early in life. What if confidence isn’t about faking it or mustering endless bravado? What if it’s actually about recognizing and rewiring the conditioning that makes us second-guess ourselves every step of the way? In this episode of Smart Wom...

The Hidden Likability Tax Most women are conditioned to be likable at all costs - but what if that pressure is secretly costing you respect, authority, and your personal power? Dr. Kyra Messick-O'Quinn reveals the hidden toll of the "likability tax" and how it sabotages your influence and confidence in the workplace - and in life. This isn't about sacrificing kindness; it's about reclaiming your s...

Most driven women master the pursuit of success - but many overlook the vital step of truly owning and experiencing it. This episode uncovers the surprising gap between chasing achievement and genuinely savoring it, revealing why success often feels fleeting and unfulfilling. If you've ever reached a milestone only to wonder, “Is this it?” you're not alone - and you're about to learn how to change...

Description: Join us in this inspiring episode of "Smart Women Talking," as our special guest, Teresa Thomas, dives deep into the empowering concept of embodying your future self. In today's discussion, we unravel the critical role of networking tailored to future ambitions rather than past experiences. We confront the familiar challenges that often hold us back from fully stepping into our potent...

In this episode of Smart Women Talking, join us as we dive into the transformative journey of becoming your future self, in the first installment of our three-part series. We start by unpacking the art of excavating who you want to become, pinpointing core values that guide your path forward. Together, we explore how tools like vision boards and affirmations aren't just hopeful strategies but powe...

Join us in the second episode of our series on "Becoming Your Future Self" on "Smart Women Talking," where we delve deeper into the transformative journey of becoming the person you aspire to be. In this insightful discussion, we uncover the profound impact of monitoring your thoughts and understanding how they shape your destiny. We explore the critical role emotions play, often anchoring us to o...

  In this enlightening episode of "Smart Women Talking," join us as we delve into the everyday challenges of juggling work, family, and self-care in today’s nonstop world. We tackle the hefty societal expectations that often place women at the forefront as primary caregivers, all while managing their professional lives, and we discuss how this dual burden can significantly elevate stress levels. T...

Today's Smart Women Talking conversation explores the importance of joy and happiness in our lives and how to intentionally cultivate more of it. Barbara and Polly share their personal experiences and lessons from a retreat in Costa Rica that helped them shift their perspectives on joy and fun. You will discover the power of micro acts of joy and the impact it can have on emotional well-being. Lea...

Welcome to the Season 1 of "Smart Women Talking," the podcast where no topic is too hot to handle, and no wisdom too sacred to share. Join hosts Polly Meyer and Barbara Zuleger as they tear down the facades and get real about living, working, and thriving in today's whirlwind world. From climbing the corporate ladder to juggling diapers and deadlines—everything's on the table. Tune in for unfilter...