This Kaleidoscope Career Podcast

In conversation with Valerie Smaldone and host Helen Jonsen.Valerie Smaldone is an unforgettable voice behind the micand in front of the camera. She is a 5-time Billboard Magazine Award winner and is well known for her unprecedented success holding the #1 on-air position in the New York radio market. She has hosted, produced and createdseveral nationally syndicated programs featuring in-depth interviews with top recording artists such as Paul McCartney, Celine Dion, Rod Stewart, Elton John and Mariah Carey, among others. She co-founded Just Do Good Entertainment, producingcommunity-minded shows like “Divine Renovation” with Erik Estrada and “Finding Kindness,” plus a family book, while reflecting on caregiving, kindness after 9/11, and staying adaptable amid AI.Valerie’s earlier credits include hosting and producing a nationally syndicated radio program, “America Weekend with Valerie Smaldone…and Friends,” distributed through the Envision Radio Network. As an actress on stage and screen, Valerie had a featuredrole in “Blue Bloods” on CBS, has been a recurring character in the Fox Television series, “The Following.” Other notable roles include Kara Angelo, a character she created in the play she co-wrote, entitled “Spit it Out!”  She has performed in several acclaimed Off-Broadway plays: “Spalding Gray: Stories Left to Tell” at the Minetta Lane Theatre, “Naked in a Fishbowl”at the Soho Playhouse, “Broadway’s Next Hit Musical” at The Triad, and “Girl Talk: The Musical,” among others.This Episode: 00:00 WhiteboardCareer Hack00:31 Show Intro andMission01:27 Meet ValerieSmaldone02:27 Light FMBreakthrough04:59 Acting AlongsideRadio05:46 Leaving Radio in200806:54 Coaching andTransferable Skills09:23 COVID Pivot toProducing10:59 Thrown IntoDirecting13:20 DivineRenovation Explained16:12 More Projectsand Distribution20:03 Elder Care andLife Balance22:13 Future Plans andAI23:47 Why KindnessDrives It All26:07 Fun Life andBroadway Loves29:03 FinalReflections and Wrap RESOURCEShttps://valeriesmaldone.com/https://www.justdogoodent.com/ Producer/Host,TELLY AWARD WINNING NEW SERIES-Finding KindnessProducer/Director,Air Angels: Flight HeleneJust Do GOOD Entertainment Presents, Officer Erik and the Very Special Dad-InternationalImpact Book Award winnerExecutive Producer, TELLY AND DAVEY AWARD WINNING Divine Renovation-The Series,hosted by Erik EstradaDirector/ExecutiveProducer, NY FILM AWARD, LA FILM AWARD, ROME PRISMA AWARD WINNING FILM,TheThursday Night Club, featuring Gloria Gaynorwww.justdogoodent.com 

Welcome! This episode feels like sitting down with the smartest, funniest friend at the dinner table — the one who somehow makes you feel calmer and more ambitious at the same time.In this wide-ranging conversation, Christine Koh shares the winding path behind her kaleidoscope career — from music cognition researcher and academic to pioneering blogger, creative director, strategist, podcaster, and trustedadvisor to mission-driven leaders.She reflects on growing up in a Korean immigrant family, navigating a toxic workplace, becoming a mother, and ultimately choosing work that felt creative,meaningful, and deeply human. Along the way, Christine talks about launching Boston Mamas during the early blogging era, helping shape the future of influencer marketing through Women Online, and discovering her unique abilityto guide organizations through difficult conversations and moments of friction.The episode is also filled with joyful sidebars — from baking elaborate cakes and learning tennis in midlife to gardening, activism, parenting teens, and why curiosity may be the greatest career skill of all. 00:00 Curiosity To Campaigns00:50 Show Introduction01:46 Meet Christine Koh02:41 Life Today AndWork04:07 From Scarcity ToPhD06:31 Leaving Academia07:13 Boston MamasBegins10:08 Making the Leap12:18 Design BusinessTwist13:52 Books PodcastsConsulting16:32 Women OnlineImpact20:07 Next steps: DiplomatPractice23:10 Motherhood andMeaning28:42 Speed Round Fun34:09 Activism andGiving Back37:14 Advice for Others Resources:Where to find Christine https://www.christinekoh.com/Podcast & Substack: Edit Your LifeSubstack: There’s Always a StoryRecommended reading:BOOK Cleo Dang Would Rather Be Dead: A Novel by Mai Nguyen------------About Your HostHelen Jonsen lives a kaleidoscope career built on decades of experience as a strategic adviser to corporate, nonprofit and public leadership, and a multi-platform journalist and speaker.As a speaker: Helen is available for keynote workshops and firesides on This Kaleidoscope Career, including women’s leadership and empowerment, and on topics to help you strengthen your spoken message and deliver it with confidence. Learn more at helenjonsen.com or email [email protected]’s new book: This Kaleidoscope Career: Empowering Women to Build Unconventional Careers and Redefine Success will be published by De Gruyter-Brill in September 2026. Listen: In This Kaleidoscope Career podcast Helen helps leading women reframe their nonlinear careers across various industries, nonprofits and government, and helps others who aspire to unlock a successful kaleidoscope career. “This Kaleidoscope Career Podcast” is a production of helen jonsen media. https://www.helenjonsen.com/#this-kaleidoscope-career----------Online Course: Command the Room: Develop Your Signature Remarks Toolkit for Leaders Hosted and written by Helen Jonsen in production with GenConnectU and LinkedIn Learning: A practical communication course for leaders who want to speak with clarity, confidence, and impact. Register here and use discount code: COMMAND15 for 15% off enrollmentTKC pod is edited on Descript. Learn more here https://descript.cello.so/u00D6MnPTT0Join Innovation Women. Do you want to speak for a living? Join a community of speakers supported by a platform. Learn more here: https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=96435&awinaffid=2281255&ued=https%3A%2F%2Finnovationwomen.com%2Fjoin%2FAffiliate Disclosure: This content contains affiliate links. helen jonsen media will receive a small commission at no cost to you.

On this episode, Helen Jonsen sits down with writer, public relations expert, and self-described California Girl, Lisa Woolery, to talk about her “kaleidoscope career.” From teaching middle school English in SoCal to shaping messages in politics, public service, and corporate PR, Lisa built a life around words—until life rewrote the script.After relocating her family to Kansas for a quieter life, Lisa’s husband, Eric, died suddenly just months later. What followed was a season of grief, survival, and, eventually, a return to the creative work that had always been calling her. Lisa shares howloss led her back to writing—through her memoir The Widow’s Comeback, a daily grief calendar, and a growing community for widows—while opening the door to a new chapter as a literary consultant and novelist.It’s a conversation about resilience and reframing, and what it means to find your voice again when everything changes. 00:00 Writing Through Grief02:03 Early Dreams and Teaching03:12 Politics and Public Service05:20 City PR to Corporate Offices09:39 Family Pressures and Leaving Work12:27 Moving to Kansas and Finding Voice15:00 Dream Interrupted16:46 Adoption and Building a Family20:09 The Day Eric Died23:07 Memoir Spark and Purpose25:33 Sponsor Break25:56 Publishing TheWidows Comeback28:05 Workbooks andWidow Community32:38 Literary Coachingand New Fiction37:21 Kids Update andResilience40:49 Life Now and Closing Reflections Thanks to our sponsor:Support for This Kaleidoscope Career comes from Divine Asset Management, a woman-ownedfirm advising individuals, families, and business owners on long-term strategies that align wealth with values.Explore more at WorkWithDivine.com About Helen Jonsen & This Kaleidoscope CareerHelen Jonsen lives a kaleidoscope career built on decades of experience as a strategic adviser to corporate, nonprofit and public leadership, and a multi-platform journalist in front of the camera and behind the scenes.Helen is available as a keynote or workshop leader on This Kaleidoscope Career, and on topics to help you strengthen your spoken message to deliver it with confidence. Learn moreat helenjonsen.com or email [email protected]. Helen’s new book: This Kaleidoscope Career: Empowering Women to Build Unconventional Careers and Redefine Success will be published byDeGruyter-Brill in September 2026.Listen:In This Kaleidoscope Career podcast Helen helps leading women reframe their nonlinear careers across various industries, nonprofits and government,and helps others who aspire to unlock a successful kaleidoscope career. “This Kaleidoscope Career Podcast” is a production of helen jonsen media. https://www.helenjonsen.com/#this-kaleidoscope-career ----------Online Course: Command the Room: Develop Your Signature Remarks Toolkit for LeadersHosted and written by Helen Jonsen in production with GenConnectU andLinkedIn Learning: A practical communication course for leaders who want tospeak with clarity, confidence, and impact. Register here and usediscount code: COMMAND15 for 15% off enrollment TKCpod is edited on Descript. Learn more here https://descript.cello.so/u00D6MnPTT0 JoinInnovation Women. Do you want to speak for a living? Join a community ofspeakers supported by a platform. Learn more here: https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=96435&awinaffid=2281255&ued=https%3A%2F%2Finnovationwomen.com%2Fjoin%2F AffiliateDisclosure: This content contains affiliate links.helen jonsen media will receive a small commission at no cost to you.

Host Helen Jonsen welcomes marketing executive and radio/podcasting pioneer Liz Dolan, known for co-creating Satellite Sisters and for CMO roles at Nike, the Oprah Winfrey Network, and National Geographic. Liz describes her current multi-project life in Santa Monica, including work with Oregon Sports Angels, an investment group, a nonprofit program training young people for sports journalism, and her podcast The Lizness School. As a working woman throughout her career, she has made her home in New York, Oregon and Los Angeles. 01:56 Liz Today06:11 Brown to NYC08:30 Nike Leap11:28 Satellite Sisters Origin Story20:44 Community Legacy24:09 From Oprah to Nat Geo27:43 Sexism and Workplace Dynamics29:50 Early Podcast Sponsorship Lessons31:49 Stanford 3rd/Third Reset34:36 Cohort Community Reflections35:57 Launching Lizness School podcast39:10 Health Habits and Speed Round44:16 Olympics Gigs and Career AdviceResources & Stuff We talked about:Liz on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-dolan-1b90584/Satellite Sisters https://satellitesisters.com/LIZNESS SCHOOL podcast https://open.spotify.com/show/17EfCHxnfXRLVEQ97tGLQvThe Magic Boost (nonprofit) https://www.themagicboost.com/Oregon Sports Angels (Investing) https://oregonsportsangels.org/Co-Author:  You’re the Best https://bookshop.org/shop/liandolanSatellite Sisters' Uncommon SensesWhat’s Liz reading: Flesh by David Szalay-----About This Kaleidoscope CareerHosted by Helen Jonsen, journalist, strategic advisor, author, and speaker.The Kaleidoscope Career is a production of helen jonsen media. Learn more at thiskaleidoscopecareer.comhttps://linktr.ee/kaleidoscope.career.podcast?utm_source=linktree_Support for This Kaleidoscope Career comes from Divine Asset Management, a woman-owned firm advising individuals, families, and business owners on long-term strategies that align wealth with values.Explore more at WorkWithDivine.com---This Kaleidoscope Career celebrates women who twist and turn their skills, talents, passions, and experiences to create new and brilliant iterations of their careers. We meet women across sectors and industries, including some in C-suites, on stage, in medicine, consulting, advocacy, nonprofits, and entrepreneurship. Each of their stories is unique, and each one is inspirational.Helen’s book, This Kaleidoscope Career: Empowering Women to Build Unconventional Careers and Redefine Success, published September 2026 by global publisher De Gruyter-Brill. -- Invite Helen to be a guest speaker at your next event, conference , bookstore, library or book club! [email protected]://www.helenjonsen.com/#this-kaleidoscope-careerIf you'd like to be a guest, apply here  https://forms.gle/KK7rrX5WaNTwJ3Qf7MORE TO LEARN!Command the Room: Develop Your Signature Remarks Toolkit for LeadersCheck this out: An online course from Helen Jonsen in production with GenConnectU and LinkedIn Learning:A practical communication course for leaders who want to speak with clarity, confidence, and impact. Register here and use discount code: COMMAND15 for 15% off enrollment-----TKC pod is edited on Descript. Learn more here https://descript.cello.so/u00D6MnPTT0-----Join Innovation Women. Do you want to speak for a living? Join a community of speakers supported by a platform. Learn more here: https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=96435&awinaffid=2281255&ued=https%3A%2F%2Finnovationwomen.com%2Fjoin%2F -----------Affiliate Disclosure: This content contains affiliate links. helen jonsen media will receive a small commission at no cost to you.#thiskaleidoscopecareer#StrongWomenLead#leadership#careers

About This EpisodeNicole R. Ferrera has spent more than two decades at the intersection of media, advertising, and technology — and she has seen this industry from nearly every angle. She started as a media buyer at the major holding companies (WPP, IPG,Omnicom), moved to the publisher side at Viacom, helping offset linear television decline through digital revenue, and then worked in ad tech building solutions that work for both buyers and sellers.But Nicole's story doesn't live only inside the professional world. In this conversation, she opens up about a life-altering accident in college, a burnout that brought her to a breaking point during the pandemic, a late ADHD diagnosis that reframed decades of her life, a cross-country move from New York City toColorado — and the businesses she has built since, on her own terms and her own values.In this episode:Nicole's Early pathThe accident that changed her lifeThe grad school of media Buyer-seller-builderEthics in the start-up worldBurnout big timeMove from NYC to ColoradoHer ADHD diagnosisThe Superwoman Society and ADHD AlignedOn being a mom firstWhat's next?Resources & Links MentionedADHDAligned.com — Nicole's new research-backed platform for women navigating ADHD at work and at home (launching soon)Superwoman Society — Nicole's global mentorship network for women with ADHD; join as a mentor or menteeNRFMedia.com — Nicole's media and advertising consultancyCureSearch for Children's Cancer — curesearch.org — funding the bridge between early-stage and late-stage pediatric cancer researchInnovation Women — Speaker network https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=96435&awinaffid=2281255&ued=https%3A%2F%2Finnovationwomen.com%2Fjoin%2FADDCA — The ADD Coach Academy, where Nicole completed her ADHD coaching trainingAbout This Kaleidoscope CareerHosted by Helen Jonsen, journalist, strategic advisor,author, and speaker. The Kaleidoscope Career is a production of helen jonsenmedia. Learn more at thiskaleidoscopecareer.com---This Kaleidoscope Career celebrates women who twist and turntheir skills, talents, passions, and experiences to create new and brilliant iterations of their careers. We meet women across sectors and industries, including somein C-suites, on stage, in medicine, consulting, advocacy, nonprofits, and entrepreneurship. Each of their stories is unique, and each one is inspirational.Helen’s book, This Kaleidoscope Career: Empowering Women to Build Unconventional Careers and Redefine Success, will be published in September 2026 by global publisher De Gruyter-Brill. -- Invite Helen to be a guest speaker at your next event, conference , book store, library or book club! [email protected]://www.helenjonsen.com/#this-kaleidoscope-careerMORE TO LEARN!Command the Room: Develop Your Signature Remarks Toolkit forLeadersCheck this out: An online course from Helen Jonsen inproduction with GenConnectU and LinkedIn Learning:A practical communication course for leaders who want tospeak with clarity, confidence, and impact. Learn to craft your SignatureRegister here and usediscount code: COMMAND15 for 15% off enrollmentTKC pod is edited on Descript. Learn more here https://descript.cello.so/u00D6MnPTT0Join Innovation Women. Do you want to speak for a living?Join a community of speakers supported by a platform. Learn more here https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=96435&awinaffid=2281255&ued=https%3A%2F%2Finnovationwomen.com%2Fjoin%2F Affiliate Disclosure: This content contains affiliate links. helen jonsenmedia will receive a small commission at no cost to you.

Meet Laura Pensiero, RDNRegistered Dietitian, Chef, Author, Consultant and SpeakerOwner of Gigi's Trattoria in Rhinebeck, NY From studying nutrition, working at NY’s premier hospitalsto sharing a kitchen with world-renowned French chefs to becoming an accidental restaurateur. Meet the tenacious Laura Pensiero, the owner and driving forcebehind GiGi’s Trattoria in Rhinebeck, New York, and author of Hudson Valley Mediterranean. From Laura, we learn how to succeed in the restaurantbusiness, build adjacencies to our expertise, and what she has learned as an entrepreneur through the crash following 9/11 and the pandemic. Creativity, good management, and community have become her hallmarks in the 25 years she has been building a robust community in the Hudson Valley.Find out what the inimitable Julia Child told her aboutnutritionists and about the books she worked on with the likes of Le Cirque's founding chef, Alain Sailhac, and  Jacques Pépin, Jacques, Torres, and the late André Soltner.Meet Laura at  https://www.laurapensiero.com/Gigi’s Hudson Valley https://www.gigihudsonvalley.com/Books & Media:Laura has worked on The French Culinary Institute's Salute to Healthy Cooking, From America's Foremost French Chefs (1998); The Strang Cookbook for Cancer Prevention: AComplete Nutrition and Lifestyle Plan to Dramatically Lower Your Cancer Risk (1998). by LauraPensiero, Michael Osborne, Susan Oliviera with foreword by Jacques Pepin; and her Hudson Valley Mediterranean, The Gigi Good Food Cookbook (2009).Column: Sanctuary Magazine - Laura’s CornerTable https://www.sanctuary-magazine.com/lauras-corner-table.html---------About This Kaleidoscope CareerHosted by Helen Jonsen, journalist, strategic advisor, author, and speaker.Like the colored glass in a kaleidoscope that tumble to create new and brilliant images, This Kaleidoscope Career celebrates women who twist and turn their skills, talents, passions, and experiences to create new and brilliant iterations of their careers. We meet women across sectors and industries, including some in C-suites, on stage, in medicine, consulting, advocacy, nonprofits, and entrepreneurship. Each of their stories is unique, and each one is inspirational.Helen’s book, This Kaleidoscope Career: Empowering Women to Build Unconventional Careers and Redefine Success, will be published in September 2026 by global publisher De Gruyter-Brill. The Kaleidoscope Career is a production of helen jonsen media https://www.helenjonsen.com/Learn more at thiskaleidoscopecareer.comhttps://www.helenjonsen.com/#this-kaleidoscope-career--------Support for This Kaleidoscope Career comes from Divine Asset Management, a woman-owned firm advising individuals, families, and business owners on long-term strategies that align wealth with values. Explore more at WorkWithDivine.com. https://www.divineassetmgt.com/---------------MORE TO LEARN!Command the Room: Develop Your Signature Remarks Toolkit for LeadersCheck this out: An online course from Helen Jonsen in production with GenConnectU and LinkedIn Learning: A practical communication course for leaders who want to speak with clarity, confidence, and impact. Learn to craft your Signature Remarks, including your passion statement, talking points, personal stories, and your go-to talk that help you show up, stand out, and lead. Register here and use discount code: COMMAND15 for 15% off enrollmentTKC pod is edited on Descript. Learn more here https://descript.cello.so/u00D6MnPTT0Join Innovation Women. Do you want to speak for a living? Join a community of speakers supported by a platform. Learn more here  https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=96435&awinaffid=2281255&ued=https%3A%2F%2Finnovationwomen.com%2Fjoin%2FAffiliate Disclosure: This content contains affiliate links. helen jonsen media will receive a small commission at no cost to you.

In this episode of This Kaleidoscope Career:Naeemah Elias went from a Harvard scholarship to life on stage to State Street and beyond. Host Helen Jonsen introduces Naeemah Elias, a former actor and Harvard graduate who became the second Black woman managing director at State Street before founding Elias Presence Ventures.  Naeemah is the first puppeteer to be a guest on This Kaleidoscope Career. It was one more piece of colored glass in the brilliant images she would create along the way.In describing herself as a chameleon, she gives us an honest look at career and life including three children, interstate moves, bankruptcy, divorce, life as an actor, and a dozen years climbing the ranks at State Street in Boston. There she advanced from executive assistant to leadership in business continuity, information security, governance, compliance, risk, acquisitions, and built a 2020 internal talent marketplace. She recounts the madness of the pandemic as asingle parent and workaholic, and how that led to burnout. It also led to her stepping off the ladder and into her own. Naeemah makes her home in Boston and is a member of Innovation Women speakers. 00:00Transferable Skills Mindset00:28Show Premise and Host Intro01:20Meet Naeemah Elias03:00Childhood & Theater Life06:58Post 9/11 Reset 08:53Pregnancy Sparks Corporate Shift13:24Boston & State Street years20:33Leaving to Start Her Business21:35Burnout in the Pandemic Years28:45The Gap: a Summer Reset32:07Building the Business34:47Pricing Your Expertise38:38Landing a TEDx Talk43:59Advice for others45:57Giving Back and Where to Find Her Find Naeemah's TEDx talk here https://lnkd.in/d7SEkz3ULinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/in/naeemahelias/Elias Presence Ventures. https://www.linkedin.com/company/elias-presence/Recommended Reading:Talk Like Ted by Carmine Gallo https://www.carminegallo.com/talk-like-ted/PassionProject: South Shore Children’s Chorus (Boston)https://www.sscchorus.org/ About This Kaleidoscope CareerHosted by Helen Jonsen, journalist, strategic advisor, author, and speaker. Learn more at https://www.helenjonsen.com/ Like the colored glass in a kaleidoscope that tumble to create new and brilliant images,TKC celebrates the remarkable women who twist and turn their skills, talents, passions, and experiences to create new and brilliant iterations of their careers.The Kaleidoscope Career is a production of helen jonsen media llc. #thiskaleidoscopecareer#StrongWomenLead#leadership#careers ——  TKCpod is edited on Descript. Learn more here https://descript.cello.so/u00D6MnPTT0 AffiliateDisclosure: This contentcontains affiliate links. helen jonsen media, llc will receive a smallcommission at no cost to you.

Host Helen Jonsen welcomes you to Season 4 of This Kaleidoscope Career, and previews upcoming guests and new content across platforms!Welcome to This Kaleidoscope Career with thoughts about how women are doing it differently. As the colors of a kaleidoscope shift and tumble to create amazing and unique images, our skills, talents, experience and passions can create unique careers that are anything but linear. After four decades as a journalist, writer, strategic comms pro and professional speaker, I have learned a lot about how we communicate who we are and what we do. These are our stories and the tools to celebrate them.Web page  https://helenjonsen.com/new-podcastPartial support for This Kaleidoscope Career comes from Divine Asset Management, a woman-owned firm advising individuals, families, and business owners on long-term strategies that align wealth with values.Explore more at WorkWithDivine.comCheck out my new online Course: Command the Room: Develop Your Signature Remarks Toolkit for Leaders in production with GenConnectU and LinkedIn LearningMy practical communication course for leaders who want to speak with clarity, confidence, and impact. Learn to craft your Signature Remarks, including your passion statement, talking points, personal stories, and your go-to talk to help you show up, stand out, and lead. ⁠https://genconnect-courses.thinkific.com/courses/Command-the-Room-The-Signature-Remarks-Toolkit-for-Leaders?ref=6311fe⁠Affiliate Disclosure: This content may contain affiliate links. helen jonsen media may earn a commission from purchases at no extra cost to you.

Meet Lauree OstrofskySupport for This Kaleidoscope Career comes from Divine Asset Management, a woman-owned firm advising individuals, families, and business owners on long-term strategies that align wealth with values. Explore more at WorkWithDivine.com In this episode of Kaleidoscope Career, host Helen Jonsen sitsdown with Lauree Ostrofsky, an empathetic coach and business consultant with a compelling story of resilience and transformation. Lauree shares her personal battle with a brain tumor at 28, which led her to shift her focus from public relations to becoming a speaker, author, and entrepreneur.Find Lauree at https://www.simplyleap.com/Lauree is the accidental founder of the Hudson Valley Women in Business membership community, which has now become a non-profit continuing to serve thousands of women members. With her optimistic approach, Lauree emphasizesthe importance of authenticity, community building, and continuous personalgrowth. The episode also features a fun lightning round where Lauree reveals her favorite books, dream destinations, and more. 00:00 A Life-Changing Diagnosis00:47 Introduction to Kaleidoscope Career01:42 Meet Lauree Ostrovsky02:23 Lauree 's Career Journey06:11 Balancing Work and a new family unit10:07 The Power of Authenticity in Business11:29 Early Career and Education14:38 A Major Life Twist21:26 Founding Hudson Valley Women in Business28:54 The Power of Community30:46 Turning a Hobby into a Business32:44 Transitioning Leadership33:46 Personal Reflections and Changes37:36 Speed round: Fun and Personal Questions45:21 Passion Projects and Final Thoughts***This Kaleidoscope Career Podcast is a production of helen jonsen media, llc.Online Course: Command the Room: Develop Your Signature Remarks Toolkit for Leaders  (link here)A practical communication course for leaders who want to speak with clarity, confidence, and impact. Learn to craft your Signature Remarks, including your passion statement, talking points, personal stories, and your go-to talk that help you show up, stand out, and lead.Code: COMMAND15Discount: 15% off enrollmenthttps://genconnect-courses.thinkific.com/courses/Command-the-Room-The-Signature-Remarks-Toolkit-for-Leaders?ref=6311fe Speakers: Learn more about Innovation Women https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=96435&awinaffid=2281255&ued=https%3A%2F%2Finnovationwomen.com%2Fjoin%2FAffiliate DisclosureThe show notes contain affiliate links. helen jonsen media may earn a commission from purchases at no extra cost to you. https://www.divineassetmgt.com/workwithdivine 

In this episode of This Kaleidoscope Career, host Helen Jonsen interviews former Forbes Executive Editor, Technology Betsy Corcoran, an innovator at the intersection of education and technology. Support for This Kaleidoscope Career comes from Divine Asset Management, a woman-owned firm advising individuals, families, and business owners on long-term strategies that align wealth with values.Explore more at WorkWithDivine.comABOUT THIS EPISODE & BETSY CORCORANA former Silicon Valley Bureau Chief for Forbes and a seasoned tech journalist, Betsy's career has evolved to focus on the impact of AI and technology in education. She explains how being a mother, involved in her children’s lives, played a role in her decision to enter the unknown. BETSY discusses her journey from journalism to cofounding EdSurge, and her current role with PlayLab AI, a nonprofit building AI infrastructure for teachers and students. Her passion for storytelling, Helping others in education, and deep collaboration in tech innovation are central themes.The episode features a speed round where Betsyshares her love for open water swimming, her musical aspirations, and the desire to make a meaningful difference in the world. 00:00 Introduction to Kaleidoscope Careers01:21 Meet Betsy Corcoran: Innovator inEducation and Technology02:04 A Day in the Life of Betsy Corcoran 04:19 Betsy's Journey from Journalism toEducation Technology14:16 The Birth of EdSurge & Family Considerations23:13 Betsy's Current Endeavors and Future Plans23:35 Speed Round: Getting to Know Betsy28:41 Betsy's Board Positions and Contributions33:15 Final Thoughts and Reflections35:22 Conclusion Additional Notes:Future Fluent futurefluent.netPlaylab.aiConsulting firm: http://www.ledelabs.comNew Harmony Line https://newharmonyline.org/DesignTech High School https://www.linkedin.com/school/design-tech-high-oracle/Project Ollie https://www.linkedin.com/company/project-ollie/LEARN MORECommand the Room: Develop Your Signature Remarks Toolkit for Leaders, presented by Helen JonsenA practical communication course for leaders who want to speak with clarity, confidence, and impact. Learn to craft your Signature Remarks, including your passion statement, talking points, personal stories, and your go-to talk that help you show up, stand out, and lead.Code: COMMAND15Discount: 15% off enrollmenthttps://genconnect-courses.thinkific.com/courses/Command-the-Room-The-Signature-Remarks-Toolkit-for-Leaders?ref=6311feAFFILIATE DISCLOSURE: The show notes contain affiliate links. helen jonsen media may earn a commission from purchases at no extra cost to you.

Season 3/In this enlightening episode of Kaleidoscope Career, host Helen Jonsen delves into the dynamic career journey of Molly Tschang, CEO of Abella Consulting and founder of Say It Skillfully, Inc. Molly shares her career evolution from aspirations of marine biology to chemical engineering, and from key roles in companies like DuPont, IBM, and Cisco Systems to her impactful work in leadership consulting and the NGO NetHope. Highlighting her unique ability to connect and foster safe spaces for authenticity, Molly discusses how to handle failure, leverage strengths, and pursue passions. The episode also touches on her philanthropic efforts, particularly with Save the Children and Community Solutions. Helen and Molly enjoy a light-hearted speed round, revealing Molly's love for tennis and her admiration for tennis great RogerFederer, and Seinfeld! 00:00 Introduction to Kaleidoscope Career01:09 Meet Molly Chang: A Kaleidoscope Career02:10 Early Career and Education05:18 Transition to IBM15:40 Joining Cisco Systems18:50 Philanthropy and Nonprofit Work25:08 Empowering Myself at Cisco25:36 Discovering Executive Coaching27:42 Leaving Cisco and Starting My Consultancy28:30 Meeting Marshall Goldsmith28:52 The Birth of 'Say It Skillfully'30:18 The Importance of Communication45:14 Navigating the Pandemic as an Introvert47:37Passion Projects and Final ThoughtsFIND MOLLY:LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/mollytschang/Say It Skillfully, Inc. https://www.sayitskillfully.com/Nonprofits:Community Solutions https://community.solutions/NetHope https://nethope.org/More from helen jonsen mediaA NEW Online Course from Helen Jonsenin production with GenConnectU and LinkedIn LearningCommand the Room: Develop Your Signature Remarks Toolkit for Leaders A practical communication course for leaders who want to speak with clarity, confidence, and impact. Learn to craft your Signature Remarks, including your passion statement, talking points, personal stories, and your go-to talk that help you show up, stand out, and lead. Learn more here.Discount Code: COMMAND15 15% off enrollmentAffiliate DisclosureThe show notes contain affiliate links. helen jonsen media may earn a commission from purchases at no extra cost to you.

Join host Helen Jonsen in conversation with Jory Des Jardins, long-considered a Silicon Valley innovator, including advice for entrepreneurs and those adding optionality to their work lives.In this episode, the co-founder of BlogHer and Optionality and currently leading CANDOR Partners, Jory, talks about her entrepreneurial journey in Silicon Valley. She discusses how she manages her multifaceted career, balancing work and family, and her passion projectsfocused on mental health and the future of work. She reflects on the impact of BlogHer in revolutionizing influencer marketing and offers advice on navigating herkaleidoscope career. Jory also shares insights into the importance of creatingflexible and meaningful work environments, writing the playbooks for things that need to be normalized, and the role of emerging technologies like AI. The episode delves into her passion for writing, her love for storytelling, and her current projects aimed atupskilling professionals and promoting brain health.Learn more about Jory on LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jorydesjardins/

In this episode of `This Kaleidoscope Career`, host Helen Jonsen interviews Lisen Stromberg, a successful author, entrepreneur, and advisor.They discuss the challenges and opportunities that come with non-linear career paths, especially for women balancing work and caregiving roles. Lisen shares insights on her approach to time mastery, theimpact of workplace culture, and the importance of collaborative change. The conversation also touches on her personal experiences,favorite activities, and passionate advocacy for reproductive rights and humanrights. To wrap up, they delve into the broader societal changes needed to support a more inclusive and supportive work environment. 00:00 Introduction to Kaleidoscope Careers00:26 Meet the Host: Helen Jonsen01:18 Guest Introduction: Lisen Stromberg02:13 A Day in the Life of Lisen Stromberg04:22 The Concept of Social Impact Entrepreneurship05:57 The Kaleidoscope Career and Motherhood06:55 Lisen's Personal Journey and Career Challenges11:21 The Scandinavian Model and Family Caregiving15:37 Current Trends and Future Outlook for Women in the Workforce23:26 Addressing Burnout and Toxic Workplaces27:43 Navigating Toxic Work Environments29:54 Introducing My New Online Course30:37 Balancing Fun and Family33:28 Exploring Hobbies and Passions35:22 Dream Destinations and Travel Goals42:58 The Impact of Elder Care on Careers47:38 Advocating for Important Causes49:11 Final Thoughts and ReflectionsLisen’s BooksIntentional Power: The 6 Essential Leadership Skills forTriple Bottom Line Impact https://amzn.to/47och9lWork, Pause, Thrive: How to Pause for Parenthood WithoutKilling Your Career,  https://amzn.to/3J2lJahRecommended author: The First, the Few,the Only: How Women of Color Can Redefine Power in Corporate America  Deepa Purushothaman (Author)https://amzn.to/42Rzlf9 Online Course from Helen Jonsenin production with GenConnectU and LinkedIn LearningCommand the Room: Develop Your Signature Remarks Toolkit for Leaders A practical communication course for leaders who want tospeak with clarity, confidence, and impact. Learn to craft your Signature Remarks, including your passion statement, talking points, personal stories, and your go-to talk that help you show up, stand out, and lead.Code: COMMAND15 Discount: 15% off enrollmenthttps://genconnect-courses.thinkific.com/courses/Command-the-Room-The-Signature-Remarks-Toolkit-for-Leaders?ref=6311feThis Kaleidoscope Career is a production of helen jonsen mediahttps://helenjonsen.com/For an expanded conversation, join us on This Kaleidoscope Career on Substack. As a free subscriber, you will receive insider tips and stories to help you build your unique career. More paid perks coming!https://substack.com/@thiskaleidoscopecareer*The show notes contain affiliate links. helen jonsen media may earn a commission from purchases at no extra cost to you.

 In this episode of 'This Kaleidoscope Career,' host Helen Jonsen welcomes Sherice Torres, a seasoned chief marketing officer with experience spanning Google, Meta, cryptocurrency, and electric vehicles. Sherice shares the twists and turns of her extensive career, including her recent sabbatical, 'Project Lotus,' which she used to reclaim joy and redefine success. Sherice explains her recent kaleidoscope includes Lotus Leadership Group and her new role at Stanford Graduate School of Business.They discuss the challenges faced by women in industry, particularly women of color, and the importance of a supportive network. Sherice highlights her love for coaching, impactful career advising roles at Stanford, and influential reading favorites. Find Sherice on LinkedIn ——A NEW Online Course from Helen Jonsenin production with GenConnectU and LinkedIn LearningCommand the Room: Develop Your Signature Remarks Toolkit for Leaders A practical communication course for leaders who want to speak with clarity, confidence, and impact. Learn to craft your Signature Remarks, including your passion statement, talking points, personal stories, and your go-to talk that help you show up, stand out, and lead.Register hereCode: COMMAND15 Discount: 15% off enrollmentPodcast Timeline:00:00 Introduction to Kaleidoscope Careers01:22 Meet Sherice Torres: A Career of Twists and Turns04:14 From Nickelodeon to Google: Career Highlights07:13 Balancing Family and Career Moves11:19 Navigating Big Tech and Personal Challenges17:55 Burnout and Rediscovering Self21:18 The Reality of Being a Working Mom27:50 Balancing Career and Family28:41 The Importance of Asking for Help32:30 Project Lotus: Reclaiming Joy36:49 Starting Lotus Leadership Group38:16 New Role at Stanford Business School42:42 Speed Round: Fun and Hobbies47:15 The Power of a Women's Network48:37 Passion Projects and Giving Back51:11 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsFor Charity:Jack Kent Cook FoundationBreakthrough Silicon ValleySherice talks about these authors:Jasmine Guillory (for fun)Toni Morrison (to honor and meet)Maya Angelou (to honor and meet) Sherice belongs to Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

Early and mid-career fellowships, entrepreneur accelerators, and fully-funded higher ed programs can be huge stepping stones in any career. For Dr. Vicki Johnson, they have provided skill-building experiences around the world and laid the groundwork for her entrepreneurial move into helping others do the same, ProFellow.com.Learn more about This Kaleidoscope Career as Helen Jonsen interviews Vicki and together they offer advice and takeaways in a world of disruption and unexpected change.Exploring Kaleidoscope Careers with Helen Jonsenand Dr. Vicki JohnsonAbout Vicki https://www.drvickijohnson.com/ Social https://www.linkedin.com/in/vjohnson1/About ProFellow https://www.profellow.com/about-us/ New Book: Pitch Your PotentialBook pre-order. ⁠https://www.amazon.com/Pitch-Your-Potential-Formula-Opportunities/dp/1394328265⁠Season 3, Episode 1 (Sept. 2025) 00:00 Introduction: Solving Problems Creatively00:26 Welcome to Kaleidoscope Career01:24 Meet Dr. Vicki Johnson02:03 A Day in the Life of an Entrepreneur02:55 Early Career and First Fellowship03:49 Impact of 9/11 and Emergency Management06:02 Exploring Fellowships and GlobalOpportunities08:55 Navigating Career Challenges andOpportunities13:49 Building ProFellow and Family Life20:05 Joining the Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center22:51 The Value of Entrepreneurship for Women23:28 Pandemic-Induced Relocation to Oregon26:05 What is ProFellow?28:19 ProFellow's Commitment to Privacy andCommunity30:20 Personal Passions and Family Life32:50 Speed Round: Fun and Personal Questions37:39 Pitch Your Potential: The Book40:26 Advice for Women and Caregiving Challenges43:43Final Thoughts and Farewell-------------From Helen JonsenOnline Course from Linkedin Learning: Command the Room: Develop Your Signature Remarks Toolkit for Leaders A practical communication course for leaders who want to speak with clarity, confidence, and impact. Learn to craft your Signature Remarks—your go-to messages that help you show up, stand out, and lead.Code: COMMAND15Discount: 15% off enrollmenthttps://genconnect-courses.thinkific.com/courses/Command-the-Room-The-Signature-Remarks-Toolkit-for-Leaders?ref=6311fe

In this episode of This Kaleidoscope Career, host HelenJonsen interviews Catarina Dolsten, a medical doctor turned management consultant, Catarina shares her journey from practicing medicine in Sweden to her work in maternal and child health in Sub-Saharan Africa and Bangladesh,and eventually founding the Aktum Group in the United States. Learn More about Catarina Dolstenon Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/crdolsten/And at Aktum Group https://www.aktumgroup.com/ Throughout the conversation, Catarina emphasizes theimportance of curiosity and adaptability in navigating career changes. She also discusses her experiences moving a family to a new country,  the cultural differences she observes, and howher throughline in diagnostics, analytics, and a love for people has propelled her into organizational management. This insightful conversation highlights how one can blenddiverse skills and experiences into a fulfilling and dynamic career. 00:00 The Importance of Curiosity00:30 Introduction to Kaleidoscope Career01:26 Meet Catarina Dolsten02:07 Early Career in Sweden04:15 Transition to the United States07:37 Working in Nonprofits13:48 Founding the Aktum Group21:57 Navigating the Pandemic as an Entrepreneur26:29 The Problem with Long Meetings27:53 Speed Round: Fun and Interests29:28 Dream Destinations and Food Adventures31:05 Hobbies and Cultural Interests34:46 Reflections on Career and Life Lessons42:27 Final Thoughts and Farewell Favorite Book: The Slave (a classic from 1962) https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-slave-isaac-bashevis-singer/1102949794

In this episode of 'This Kaleidoscope Career,'host Helen Jonsen is joined by Kym McNicholas, CEO of the Global PAD Association. Kym shares her remarkable career journey that spans from being ashy college student aspiring to become an athletic trainer, to becoming aprofessional water skier, sports, tech and business journalist, and now anadvocate for Peripheral Artery Disease awareness.  Global PAD Associationwww.thewaytomyheart.org The conversation delves deep into Kym’sexperiences in journalism, her pivotal moments, and the profound impact she ismaking in the field of global health. Listeners will be inspired by Kym’sunwavering passion, her bold transitions throughout her career, and hercommitment to saving lives through early diagnosis and awareness of PAD.  The episode also touches upon Kym’s personalanecdotes, including her transformative moments in broadcasting, her innovativeapproaches in healthcare advocacy, and her relentless drive to createmeaningful change in the world. Kym McNicholas https://www.linkedin.com/in/kymmcnicholas/ 00:00 Introduction to the Kaleidoscope Career01:37 Meet Kym McNicholas: A Journey fromShyness to Broadcasting02:32 Kym's Early Career: From Athletic Trainingto Radio05:12 Breaking into Sports Journalism andBroadcasting09:16 Transition to Business and TechnologyReporting12:02 The Energy News Live Experience16:56 From Local TV to Silicon Valley21:45 Advocacy and the Global PAD Association36:43 Personal Reflections and FutureAspirations44:19Conclusion and Farewell

Navigating This Kaleidoscope Career with FranHauser In this episode of 'This Kaleidoscope Career,'host Helen Jonsen converses with Fran Hauser, a bestselling author, keynote speaker, and bookstore owner.  She is passionate about helping women acceleratein their careers by writing, speaking, investing in women’s start-up ventures, and in book consulting. Fran discusses her diverse trajectory, startingfrom her early days in accounting and evolving through various corporate roles at companies like Coca-Cola and Time Inc. where she was in the C-suite as head of digital. She delves into her transition to startupinvesting, driven by a desire to support female entrepreneurs, and later becoming an author. Her first book 'The Myth of The Nice Girl' became a best seller and is still fueling conversations about women at work. Her third is expected later in 2025. Fran also talks about her latest venture as abookstore owner and the importance of storytelling, community and family.  Helen and Fran explore the common themes andthrough lines that have guided Fran's journey, focusing on her advocacy for women and her passion for storytelling. Find Fran hereFind Bedford Books herePodcast timeline: 00:00 Introduction and Mission00:27 Welcome to This Kaleidoscope Career01:22 Meet Fran Hauser01:44 Fran's Career Journey03:23 Transition to Startup Investing04:17 Writing and Advocacy16:19 The Myth of The Nice Girl22:13 Balancing Leadership and Authenticity24:43 Book Bound Podcast and Bookstore26:10 Reading Like Writers26:41 Workshops and Bookstore Dreams27:40 Opening the Bookstore in Record Time29:42 Building Community and Author Networks30:52 Navigating the Challenges of BookstoreOperations34:41 Publishing Workshops and Programs38:13 Speed Round: Fun and Personal Insights41:17 Family and Personal Life44:52 Advice for Women with Kaleidoscope Careers47:30Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Nikki Green is a Life and Business Resiliency Expert who has worked in the international business industry for more than 20 years. Empowering young people to reach their full potential is her greatest passion, and as an inspiring keynote speaker, Nikki will motivate your organization or event attendees.With her company, Green Chameleon Collective, Nikki has dedicated her life to assisting others in overcoming the fear of following their dreams. She has worked with several notable C-Level executives in top Silicon Valley companies. Nikki received double promotions in two different Fortune 500 companies and The Golden Microphone Award. A four-time published author, she hosts the podcast “Stand Up & Stand Out” and has been featured in USA Today, Podcast Magazine, and Authority Magazine.Nikki earned her master’s in international business administration from California State University, Hayward. An avid traveler, she has visited more than 14 countries and over half of the United States. Nikki lives outside Chicago, where she enjoys running and has completed seven marathons, three ultras, and dozens of triathlons across three continents.Find out more about Nikki at the Green Chameleon Collective

Bonnie fills us in on her version of This Kaleidoscope Career starting as an underpaid kindergarten teacher and landing in the C-suite of a med-tech company. She is now an expert on gendered ageism in the workplace, an executive and advocated for the advancement of women. Learn more about Bonnie at Bonnie Marcus Leadershiphttps://bonniemarcusleadership.com/And on Substack at Own Your Ambitionhttps://bonniemarcus1.substack.com/?utm_source=global-searchNot Done Yet (book) https://www.amazon.com/Not-Done-Yet-Confidence-Workplace/dp/1989603785Bad Ass Women Podcast https://badasswomeninbusinesspodcast.com/Bonnie shares her career journey, from teaching kindergarten to climbing the corporate ladder in healthcare, and ultimately becoming an advocate against gendered ageism. They discuss her book, 'Not Done Yet,' and touch on her podcast 'Badass Women.' Bonnie emphasizes the importance of advocating for oneself and staying visible in the workplace, and also shares her mantra: 'Own your ambition, own your talent, and stand in your power.'00:00 Introduction and Host Welcome01:22 Meet Bonnie Marcus: Career Journey and Insights03:14 Bonnie's Early Career and Challenges05:07 Transition to Business and Executive Roles09:05 Becoming an Executive Coach17:36 Gendered Ageism and Research Findings24:49 Speed Round: Getting to Know Bonnie32:33 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Julie Cole is an award-winning entrepreneur, best-selling and award-winning author and media personality. As a lawyer who wanted out of corporate life she co-founded Mabel's Labels, to offer a solution to other moms needing to keep track of their kids' things. Not only did she and her three cofounders build a business started in her basement, she was an early adopter of social media and continues to be the face–often funny–of the company even after it was sold to a large conglomerate.More about Julie here.

Navigating This Kaleidoscope Career: A Conversation with Jennifer BrownLearn more @ Jennifer Brown SpeaksIn this engaging episode, Helen interviews Jennifer Brown, a prominent speaker, author, and thought leader in diversity, equity, and inclusion. Jennifer discusses her eclectic daily routine, her transformative journey from a nonprofit 'do-gooder' and classical singer to becoming a successful entrepreneur and leader. She shares candid insights into her evolution and her pivot from music to inclusion consulting. With references to her books and influential figures like Frances Hesselbein and Peter Block, Jennifer elaborates on the complexities of privilege, the importance of inclusive leadership, and her dedication to creating safe, equitable workplaces. The conversation also delves into Jennifer’s personal life, including her love for nature in Woodstock and her advocacy for various social causes.00:00 Introduction to Jennifer Brown00:47 A Day in the Life of Jennifer Brown03:52 Jennifer's Early Career and Musical Pursuits07:44 Transition to Corporate and Consulting11:23 The Importance of Inclusive Leadership18:01 Challenges and Opportunities in DEI21:24 Writing and Thought Leadership22:09 Building a Brand and Writing Books22:37 Embracing Your Voice and Experience23:18 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Claiming Expertise24:00 The Impact of Writing and Sharing Your Story27:33 Speed Round: Influences and Inspirations30:53 Speed Round: Personal Interests and Hobbies34:49 Speed Round: Quickfire Questions38:46 The Importance of Social Action and Charity40:27 Encouragement for Midlife Exploration42:21 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

Key Takeaways from Interview Susan Colantuono's and Helen Jonsen's Discussion: A kaleidoscope career utilizes fundamental skills and talents in various roles and industries throughout one's professional life. Business disruptions (e.g. pandemic, AI, etc.) are changing how people work and view their careers Nonlinear career paths are becoming more common and accepted Key to navigating a kaleidoscope career: Identify and articulate your core skills that transfer across roles Explain your career transitions with confidence Highlight how your diverse experiences add value Advice for job seekers: Focus on your transferable skills and how they apply to new roles, even if the job title or industry is different Advice for hiring managers: Look beyond traditional career paths and recognize the value of diverse experiences More about Susan: In 2002, Susan established the Women’s Institute for Leadership at Bryant University and presented Leadership Mastery programs for women until 2010. In 2004, she founded Leading Women on a B2C model. In 2015, she made the strategic shift to B2B ,delivering unique leadership development programs for women and gender dynamics programs for managers at global clients, including Verizon, DHL, onsemi, Nokia, Amgen, AbbVie, BD, IGT, Turner Construction, Veeam, Victaulic, and Campbells among others across a range of industries. The strategy shift enabled a 400% percent increase in revenue over 3 years. In 2018, Leading Women was sold. The following year, with a goal of spreading her actionable insights to women without access to leadership development resources, Susan Colantuono and Michelle Redfern launched the Lead to Soar network (formerly A Career that Soars!) , an online global community of ambitious women committed to developing their leadership skills and advancing in their careers. She is once again leading her own firm, Be Business Savvy. Susan has published numerous articles on leadership and is the author of two other books. Her cutting-edge insights have been featured in Time, AdAge, CNBC, Forbes, and CBS in addition to various other podcasts and media outlets. An in-demand speaker, Susan has spoken for business audiences from every continent. Throughout her career, Susan has been a pioneer in leadership development and diversity and inclusion solutions to organizations. Extra fact: Susan’s TEDx Talk on “Closing the gender gap at the top" is one of only 1% of TEDx Talks to make it to the TED.com site. Susan's talk was retitled, “The career advice you probably didn’t get.” Nearing 4.5 million views, it has been translated into 23 languages and covered by media including The Washington Post, Fortune Magazine, and The Guardian as one of the Top 5 Talks that will change the way you work. Resources: For more on  “Be Business Savvy” and founder Susan Colantuono, click here. Find Susan on LinkedIn About Kaleidoscope Career Podcast As a professional communicator, Helen Jonsen has a kaleidoscope career with decades of experience as a journalist, storyteller, media coach, voice-over talent, writer, media relations pro, and strategist. Helen is now taking the next step in her colorful career with "This Kaleidoscope Career," now on Substack.  Join Helen each week as she talks with leading women across various industries about the keys to unlocking a successful kaleidoscope career. Helen is available as a speaker on topics that will resonate with your audience. Find more here. Subscribe: ⁠Linktr.ee⁠ Spotify podcast Amazon podcast I Heart Media podcast LinkedIn newsletter: Kaleidoscope Career LinkedIn: Helen Jonsen  or Helen Jonsen Media Follow us on Instagram ⁠@Kaleidoscope_Career⁠ Follow us on Facebook @ByHelenJonsen Contact: Helen Jonsen, host/producer [email protected]  Maggie Peknic, co-producer [email protected] Learn more at helen jonsen media

After 27 years in journalism, Leslie catapulted into an "accidental career." Wanting to help after 9/11, she delivered daily bowls of homemade soup to 9/11 firefighters. The soup was a hit. In 2003, Café of Love opened in Mt. Kisco. From there she built the Ladle of Love brand. Leslie describes her offerings as contemplative food, food that has consciously been thought about in terms of who grows it, how it is grown, and how it is prepared. A professional commissary kitchen is located in the Mt. Kisco Boys and Girls Club of Northern Westchester. There budding chefs are trained, and food is prepared for catering and on-line orders. The chefs also prepare 1,500 free healthy meals a week for the Boys and Girls Club, and a line of vegan food for Fresh Direct. Leslie was honored to receive the Boys and Girls Club 2016 Humanitarian Award. Leslie believes, "It matters who you are and how you are." Wanting more time for community-centered impact work and a bit of leisure, she closed Café of Love and had a hip replacement. Find Leslie on Social Media @leslie_lampert Find Ladle of Love by click here About This Kaleidoscope Career Podcast As a professional communicator, Helen Jonsen has a kaleidoscope career with decades of experience as a journalist, storyteller, media coach, voice-over talent, writer, media relations pro, and strategist. Helen is now taking the next step in her colorful career with "This Kaleidoscope Career," ⁠now on Substack⁠. Join Helen each week as she talks with leading women across various industries about the keys to unlocking a successful kaleidoscope career. Helen is available as a speaker on topics that will resonate with your audience. ⁠Find more here⁠. "This Kaleidoscope Career Podcast" is a production of h⁠elen jonsen media⁠ Read about Helen's career by ⁠clicking here⁠.  Subscribe & Follow: ⁠Linktr.ee⁠ Apple ⁠podcasts⁠ Spotify ⁠podcast⁠ Amazon ⁠podcast⁠ I Heart Media ⁠podcast⁠ LinkedIn Newsletter: ⁠This Kaleidoscope Career⁠ Instagram: ⁠@Kaleidoscope_Career⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠Helen Jonsen⁠ or ⁠Helen Jonsen Media⁠ Facebook: ⁠@ByHelenJonsen ⁠ Contact: Helen Jonsen, host/producer ⁠[email protected]⁠  Maggie Peknic, co-producer ⁠[email protected]⁠ Learn more at helen jonsen media ⁠helenjonsen.com⁠

Ana Barreto is a Brazilian-American author, transformational teacher, coach, and energy consultant with over 35 years of business experience. Holding an MBA and bachelor’s degree in business, Ana blends her expertise with a deep commitment to empowering women. Her mission is to guide women toward greater fulfillment, inner peace, and balance through mindfulness. As the founder of the Body, Mind, & Wisdom School for Women, Ana uses a holistic approach integrating body, mind, and spirit, helping women break free from limiting patterns. Her practical, spiritual teachings enable her clients, students, and readers to reprogram self-sabotaging behaviors and embrace their true potential. Ana is the author of multiple books with her latest, The Umbrella Effect, released November 2024. She has created dozens of meditations and inspirational talks and developed online programs on personal growth. Ana is dedicated to championing every woman’s journey. Her own experiences give her deep compassion for the challenges women face when suppressed parts of themselves hinder purposeful success. Fina Ana At: Ana-Bareto.com On Facebook @ana1barreto On Instagram @ana1barreto On LinkedIn @Ana Chaves Barreto, MBA On Pinterest @ana1barreto Resources: Books: Author of a series of books on women’s empowerment. All titles can be found at Ana-Bareto.com Newest Book: The Umbrella Effect due online Nov. 7 About This Kaleidoscope Career Podcast As a professional communicator, Helen Jonsen has a kaleidoscope career with decades of experience as a journalist, storyteller, media coach, voice-over talent, writer, media relations pro, and strategist. Helen is now taking the next step in her colorful career with "This Kaleidoscope Career," now on Substack. Join Helen each week as she talks with leading women across various industries about the keys to unlocking a successful kaleidoscope career. Helen is available as a speaker on topics that will resonate with your audience. Find more here. "This Kaleidoscope Career Podcast" is a production of helen jonsen media Read about Helen's career by clicking here.  Subscribe & Follow: Linktr.ee Apple podcasts Spotify podcast Amazon podcast I Heart Media podcast LinkedIn Newsletter: This Kaleidoscope Career Instagram: @Kaleidoscope_Career LinkedIn: Helen Jonsen or Helen Jonsen Media Facebook: @ByHelenJonsen  Contact: Helen Jonsen, host/producer [email protected]  Maggie Peknic, co-producer [email protected] Learn more at helen jonsen media helenjonsen.com

Julie Edelman is the bestselling author of the how-to book, The Accidental Housewife: How to Overcome Housekeeping Hysteria One Task at a Time, and has been seen on television for decades as a lifestyle expert with humor. The Accidental Sisterhood is her debut novel and a testimony to embracing a life detour with hope and determination following her triumph over breast cancer. Julie speaks publicly with heart, humor, and in high heels about the value of sisterhood and not letting life’s detours define or stop us from achieving our dreams.  Find Julie on:  JulieEdelman.com  On Instagram @julieedelmanauthor⁠ On Facebook @julieedelmanauthor On X @julie_edelman On LinkedIn @Julie Edelman Resources: Books: Author of The Accidental Housewife and The Accidental Sisterhood (Amazon author) Passion: Moffett Cancer Center > Miles for Moffitt  https://fundraise.moffitt.org/campaign/617385/donate About This Kaleidoscope Career Podcast As a professional communicator, Helen Jonsen has a kaleidoscope career with decades of experience as a journalist, storyteller, media coach, voice-over talent, writer, media relations pro, and strategist. Helen is now taking the next step in her colorful career with "This Kaleidoscope Career," now on Substack.  Join Helen each week as she talks with leading women across various industries about the keys to unlocking a successful kaleidoscope career. Helen is available as a speaker on topics that will resonate with your audience. Find more here. "This Kaleidoscope Career Podcast" is a production of helen jonsen media Read about Helen's career by clicking here.  Subscribe & Follow: Linktr.ee Substack Apple podcasts Spotify podcast Amazon podcast I Heart Media podcast LinkedIn newsletter: This Kaleidoscope Career Follow us: Instagram @Kaleidoscope_Career LinkedIn: Helen Jonsen  or Helen Jonsen Media Facebook @ByHelenJonsen  Contact: Helen Jonsen, host/producer [email protected]  Maggie Peknic, co-producer [email protected] Learn more at helen jonsen media helenjonsen.com

Helen’s kaleidoscope career offers decades of experience from newsrooms to corporate boardrooms, from startups to established publishers, and from nonprofits to government agencies.She has been an entrepreneur and executive at the confluence of digital media and business disruption. As a multi-platform journalist, media coach, and media relations pro, writer, and trainer, Helen has been a strategic business and editorial advisor to executives and entrepreneurs, media networks, nonprofits, government agencies, and corporations.Storytelling is in Helen’s DNA and at the heart of everything she creates. She built a career as a journalist in newspapers, magazines, radio, and online, including working for local, national, and international television news divisions.In recent years, Helen took her skills to public service communications serving the City of New York and Westchester County.Helen is known as a public speaker on the craft of communication, strengthening advocacy, resiliency in the face of life’s challenges, life-work balance, leadership, and the advancement of women.She has moderated and organized panels for leading conferences, including Forbes Women’s Summits, Working Mother Best Companies, and the Swedish-American Executive Women’s conferences in the US and Stockholm. Helen has been called upon to emcee events for nonprofit corporate/fundraising and industry associations. Resources:Helen Jonsen Amazon author pageJohn Colquhoun, cartoonist and illustrator Love Her,  Love Her Not, the Hillary Paradox Edited by Joanne BambergerExcerpt from the Six Degrees of Hillary Clinton by Helen JonsenHillary Clinton's book What HappenedForbes: The Balancing Act. Click Here to See Videos (for the archived page, click here)CureSearch for Children’s Cancer @CureSearch (insta)Hole in the Wall Gang Camp @HoleWallCamp (insta)Listen: Be Business Savvy: Girl Talk to Woman TalkGretchen Grant LinkedIn Elisa Camahort Page at Optionality WFUV Radio Ceol na nGaelAbout This Kaleidoscope Career PodcastAs a professional communicator, Helen Jonsen has a kaleidoscope career with decades of experience as a journalist, storyteller, media coach, voice-over talent, writer, media relations pro, and strategist. Helen is now taking the next step in her ever-growing kaleidoscope career with her new podcast, "This Kaleidoscope Career." Join Helen each week as she talks with leading women across various industries about the keys to unlocking a successful kaleidoscope career. Helen is available as a speaker on topics that will resonate with your audience. Find more here."This Kaleidoscope Career Podcast" is a production of helen jonsen mediaRead more about Helen’s career here. Subscribe & Follow: Apple podcastsSpotify podcastAmazon podcastI Heart Media podcastSubscribe to our LinkedIn newsletter: This Kaleidoscope CareerFollow Us On: Instagram @Kaleidoscope_CareerFollow Us On: LinkedIn with Helen Jonsen or Helen Jonsen MediaFollow Us On: Facebook at @ByHelenJonsen Contact:Helen Jonsen, host/producer [email protected] Maggie Peknic, co-producer [email protected] more at helen jonsen media helenjonsen.com

Joan Garry is an internationally recognized champion for the nonprofit sector and a highly sought-after executive coach for CEOs of some of the nation’s largest organizations. An author, blogger, and founder of the Nonprofit Leadership Lab, Joan has helped hundreds of thousands of nonprofit board and staff leaders become five-star managers, communicators, and the inspiring ambassadors their organizations need and deserve. Learn more about Joan and Nonprofit Leadership Lab by clicking here. More About Joan: Instagram: @JoanGarryConsulting @Nonprofitleadershiplab LinkedIn: @JoanGarry @NonprofitLeadershipLab Facebook: @JoanGarryConsulting @Nonprofitleadershiplab Things we talked about:  Seth Godin on marketing Joan’s conversation with Seth Godin TED Talks Richard Saul Wurman (history of TED) James by Percival Everett (a novel review) North Wood by Daniel Mason (a novel) About This Kaleidoscope Career Podcast As a professional communicator, Helen Jonsen has a kaleidoscope career with decades of experience as a journalist, storyteller, media coach, voice-over talent, writer, media relations pro, and strategist. Helen is now taking the next step in her ever-growing kaleidoscope career with her new podcast, "This Kaleidoscope Career." Join Helen as she talks with leading women across various industries about the keys to unlocking a successful kaleidoscope career.  Helen is available as a speaker on a topics that will resonate with your audience. Find ⁠more here.⁠ "This Kaleidoscope Career Podcast" is a production of ⁠helen jonsen media⁠ Read about⁠ Helen's career by ⁠clicking here⁠ Subscribe & Follow: ⁠ For All Subscriptions: Linktr.ee⁠ Apple ⁠podcasts⁠ Spotify ⁠podcast⁠ Amazon ⁠podcast⁠ I Heart Media ⁠podcast⁠ LinkedIn newsletter: ⁠This Kaleidoscope Career⁠ Follow us on Instagram ⁠@Kaleidoscope_Career⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠Helen Jonsen⁠  or ⁠Helen Jonsen Media⁠ Follow us on Facebook ⁠@ByHelenJonsen ⁠ Contact: Helen Jonsen, host/producer ⁠[email protected] ⁠ Maggie Peknic, co-producer ⁠[email protected]⁠ Learn more at helen jonsen media ⁠helenjonsen.com⁠

In this episode of This Kaleidoscope Career, host Helen Jonsen interviews Gretchen Grant, an entrepreneurial business builder with a background in digital publishing and media. As a Yale and Harvard Business School graduate, Gretchen shares her unique career journey from finance to media, emphasizing her passion for amplifying human connections through content. She discusses her pivotal experiences at Viacom, Meredith magazines, and startup environments, detailing how creativity and innovation have driven her career. The conversation touches on the impact of COVID-19 and generative AI on the workplace and the importance of continuous learning. Gretchen's insights offer a comprehensive look at navigating a nonlinear, multifaceted career path. More About Gretchen: Follow her LinkedIn Follow her Instagram @gretchengrantnyc Resources Mentioned Throughout the Episode: @BobVila.com @benSmith  Semafor Daily FX  Intentful AI Timothy Snyder On Freedom Zeteo About This Kaleidoscope Career Podcast As a professional communicator, Helen Jonsen has a kaleidoscope career with decades of experience as a journalist, storyteller, media coach, voice-over talent, writer, media relations pro, and strategist. Helen is now taking the next step in her ever-growing kaleidoscope career with her new podcast, "This Kaleidoscope Career." Join Helen as she talks with leading women across various industries about the keys to unlocking a successful kaleidoscope career.  Helen is available as a speaker on a topics that will resonate with your audience. Find more here. "This Kaleidoscope Career Podcast" is a production of helen jonsen media Read about Helen’s career. by clicking here Subscribe & Follow: Linktr.ee Apple podcasts Spotify podcast Amazon podcast I Heart Media podcast LinkedIn newsletter: This Kaleidoscope Career Follow us on Instagram @Kaleidoscope_Career LinkedIn: Helen Jonsen  or Helen Jonsen Media Follow us on Facebook @ByHelenJonsen  Contact: Helen Jonsen, host/producer [email protected]  Maggie Peknic, co-producer [email protected] Learn more at helen jonsen media helenjonsen.com

In the latest episode of This Kaleidoscope Career, Helen spoke with a truly inspirational guest, Genevieve Piturro, founder of the Pajama Program. Her story is a testament to the power of following one's heart and redefining success. Here’s a glimpse into her incredible journey and the profound impact she has made on countless lives. To learn more about Genevieve Piturro, her remarkable journey, and her book, visit her website at GenevievePiturro.com More About Genevieve: Follow her LinkedIn Follow her on Facebook Follow @genevievepiturro on Instagram Check Out Her YouTube Channel About This Kaleidoscope Career Podcast As a professional communicator, Helen Jonsen has a kaleidoscope career with decades of experience as a journalist, storyteller, media coach, voice-over talent, writer, media relations pro, and strategist. Helen is now taking the next step in her ever-growing kaleidoscope career with her new podcast, "This Kaleidoscope Career Podcast." Join Helen each week as she talks with leading women across various industries about the keys to unlocking a successful kaleidoscope career. "This Kaleidoscope Career Podcast" is a production of ⁠helen jonsen media⁠ Read about Helen's career by ⁠clicking here⁠ Also Listen To Us On: Apple ⁠⁠podcast⁠⁠ Spotify ⁠⁠podcast⁠⁠ Amazon ⁠⁠podcast⁠⁠ iHeart Media ⁠⁠podcast⁠⁠ Contact: Helen Jonsen, host/producer ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠  Maggie Peknic, co-producer ⁠⁠[email protected]⁠⁠ For More Information, ⁠⁠Click Here⁠ Or visit helen jonsen media at ⁠helenjonsen.com⁠

Helen Jonsen hosts Elisa Camahort Page, a serial entrepreneur and co-founder of BlogHer and Optionality, to discuss her multifaceted career journey from acting to technology and entrepreneurship, building meaningful  online communities. Helen and Elisa explore the concept of a 'kaleidoscope career' — combining varied skills and experiences to create unique professional paths. Elisa reflects on founding BlogHer and its impact on women bloggers and the importance of trust and community in business. She also introduces her new venture, Optionality, which aims to redefine “now of work” and the importance of flexible professional opportunities and connections. Highlights: 00:00 Introduction to kaleidoscope careers 00:43 The Birth of BlogHer 01:52 Welcome to This Kaleidoscope Career Podcast 02:44 Meet Elisa Camahort Page 03:34 Elisa's Journey from Acting to Tech 06:35 The Dot-Com Boom and Bust 11:32 Founding BlogHer 19:19 The Success and Sale of BlogHer 21:44 Introducing Optionality 28:09 Conclusion and Contact Information About Elisa Camahort Page Elisa Camahort Page is a serial entrepreneur, trusted advisor, and strategic consultant who launches and scales businesses, products, and authentic user communities and initiatives, harnessing the power of people -- community members, employees, and partners. Elisa is the co-founder of Optionality, a community of practice rewriting the rules for the now of work. Elisa was previously the co-founder and COO of BlogHer, Inc. In that role, she represented the face of the company to the user community and drove the transformation of a movement into a market.  A frequent public speaker, LinkedIn Learning course instructor, and freelance writer, Elisa also writes the This Week-ish newsletter and is the co-author of Road Map for Revolutionaries: Resistance, Activism, and Advocacy for All (2018). More About Elisa: Learn more at Optionality.Life Follow her LinkedIn Follow @elisacp on Threads, Instagram, and TikTok Learn more about Jory Des Jardins Learn more about Lisa Stone About This Kaleidoscope Career Podcast As a professional communicator, Helen Jonsen has a kaleidoscope career with decades of experience as a journalist, storyteller, media coach, voice-over talent, writer, media relations pro, and strategist. Helen is now taking the next step in her ever-growing kaleidoscope career with her new podcast, "This Kaleidoscope Career Podcast." Join Helen each week as she talks with leading women across various industries about the keys to unlocking a successful kaleidoscope career. "This Kaleidoscope Career Podcast" is a production of helen jonsen media Read about Helen's career by clicking here Also Listen To Us On: Apple ⁠podcast⁠ Spotify ⁠podcast⁠ Amazon ⁠podcast⁠ iHeart Media ⁠podcast⁠ Contact: Helen Jonsen, host/producer ⁠[email protected]⁠  Maggie Peknic, co-producer ⁠[email protected]⁠ For More Information, ⁠Click Here Or visit helen jonsen media at helenjonsen.com⁠

About this Episode: In this episode, Helen interviews Monique Moore Pryor, Executive Director of the Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation. Monique shares her journey from a journalism major to an attorney and eventually to a diversity executive and nonprofit leader.  Monique discusses the challenges in her career pivot and her deep commitment to community building and diversity. She also talks about her transformative experience on The Amazing Race and how it impacted her career, emphasizing the importance of transferable skills and the need for diversity of thought in the workplace.  Monique also expresses her passion for empowering women and her dream to motivate them on a global platform. Resources Learn more about Monique @LinkedIn Follow her on Instagram @amazin_mo Learn more about the Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation and about St. Francis College  Follow FreeLibrary.org ​​on Instagram ⁠@FreeLibraryFDN⁠ About Kaleidoscope Career Podcast A kaleidoscope is made up of shifting and changing colors that create amazing and infinite patterns. Your skills, talents and passions can do the same. In this series, Helen Jonsen interviews some amazing accomplished women who have found unique success by stretching and innovating while staying true to their core. Subscribe: Subscribe to our LinkedIn newsletter: Kaleidoscope Career Follow Us on Instagram @Kaleidoscope_Career Follow Us on LinkedIn @Helen Jonsen and @Helen Jonsen Media Follow Us on Facebook @ByHelenJonsen Also Listen To Us On: Apple podcast Spotify podcast Amazon podcast iHeart Media podcast Contact: Helen Jonsen, host/producer [email protected]  Maggie Peknic, co-producer [email protected] For More Information, Click Here

As a professional communicator, Helen Jonsen has a kaleidoscope career with decades of experience as a journalist, storyteller, media coach, voice-over talent, writer, media relations pro, and strategist. Helen is now taking the next step in her ever-growing kaleidoscope career with her new podcast, Kaleidoscope Career. Join Helen each week as she talks with leading women across various industries about the keys to unlocking a successful kaleidoscope career. Coming September 18th.  About Kaleidoscope Career Podcast A kaleidoscope is made of shifting and changing colors that create amazing and infinite patterns. Your skills, talents, and passions can do the same. In this series, Helen Jonsen interviews some amazing accomplished women who have found unique success by stretching and innovating while staying true to their core. Subscribe: Subscribe to our LinkedIn newsletter: Kaleidoscope Career Follow us: Instagram @Kaleidoscope_Career LinkedIn: Helen Jonsen  or Helen Jonsen Media Facebook @ByHelenJonsen  https://www.facebook.com/HelenJonsenHJMedia/ Contact: Helen Jonsen, host/producer [email protected]  Maggie Peknic, co-producer ([email protected]) helenjonsen.com