Girls That Excel

This week, Emily and Elyssa sit down with Susana Venegas, MA, AMFT, a bilingual Marriage & Family Therapist whose story is one of resilience, compassion, and cultural pride. From her family’s immigration journey to her work helping others heal, Susana opens up about what it means to guide people through life’s hardest moments, how social media has reshaped mental health conversations, and the lessons she’s learned along the way.

In this episode of Girls That Excel, we sit down with Summer Harness, FNP-BC, CANS, founder of Summer Aesthetics, and Nikki Hassell, PA-C, who leads their Medical Weight Loss & Wellness program. From subtle enhancements with Botox and threads to personalized weight loss journeys with GLP-1s, they share how aesthetics and wellness can empower women to feel confident, radiant, and ready to take on their world. We explore the art of enhancement—not transformation—why looking “polished” at work is more complex than it seems, and what true self-care really means in today’s world.

In this episode, we explore the inspiring journey of Cameron, a dedicated firefighter who overcame dyslexia to excel in his career. Cameron shares his experiences, challenges, and triumphs, offering valuable insights into the world of firefighting and the impact of learning disabilities.

In this engaging episode, Emily and Elyssa interview Richard, a seasoned entrepreneur and innovator in the life sciences sector. The conversation explores Richard's journey from childhood aspirations to a successful career in science and entrepreneurship. They discuss the importance of staying close to customers, the challenges of transitioning from a startup to a larger company, and the value of mentorship in the industry. Richard shares insights on navigating the entrepreneurial landscape, the significance of innovation, and the rewarding aspects of helping others succeed.

Emily and Elyssa are back after a summer break, introducing new dynamics for Season Two, including the addition of Annah! They reflect on the lessons learned from Season One and discuss the rebranding of the podcast to focus more on storytelling and diverse paths to success. The hosts emphasize that success looks different for everyone and express excitement for the upcoming season filled with interviews and career tips.

In this episode, the hosts discuss the significance of summer jobs and how they shape personal and professional growth. They share their first job experiences, the lessons learned, and the importance of balancing work with fun. The conversation also touches on the value of early work experiences, navigating job expectations, and the impact of work crushes. The hosts reflect on their favorite summer jobs and what they hope for their future children regarding work experiences.

AI is changing the workplace as we know it, but how should we embrace it without losing our humanity? In this episode, Manisha Dhawan, a leader in digital transformation, offers her expertise on the future of work, the ethics of AI, and the responsibility of both tech companies and employees in this brave new world.

Is it really delegation if you just do it yourself? This week, we’re tackling the art of letting go without losing control. We’ll walk through how to delegate with intention, build trust with your team, and stop micromanaging. Plus, we play Would You Delegate or Not? with real workplace scenarios. Spoiler: ordering lunch isn’t as easy as it sounds.

A deep dive into the coworkers who are always “busy”… but never actually working.They’ve always got a meeting, their Slack status is constantly “In Focus Mode,” and yet—somehow—nothing ever gets done. This week, Emily and Elyssa break down the office phenomenon of fake productivity: the people who’ve mastered looking busy while producing zilch. We unpack why this behavior often flies under the radar, how it impacts real performers, and the subtle signs you’re working with a corporate illusionist.Clock-in for passive-aggressive email drama, buzzword Olympics, and our hot takes on the worst fake-busy habits in the game.

It’s bring-your-dog-to-work day—every day. In this episode, we explore the rise of pet-friendly workplaces, from pawternity leave to in-office pup naps. Are pets the ultimate wellness perk or just a fluffy distraction? Let’s talk it out.

In this episode, we’re diving into the sun-soaked world of Summer Fridays—the ultimate workplace perk that lets you log off early and live your best life (or at least clean your apartment before your friends show up with a bottle of rosé). We break down the history of Summer Fridays, how they actually impact productivity, and—just like on Summer House—who gets to clock out early, and who’s stuck cleaning up the mess.Are they a true step toward work-life balance, or just another illusion of flexibility dressed up in office-approved linen? Plus, we reveal our favorite ways to look busy while mentally packing for the Hamptons. So grab a Loverboy, fake a Zoom emergency, and press play on this week’s episode.

In this episode, Girls That Excel is joined by Lina Osofsky from the Learned In Trivia podcast to explore the fascinating history and cultural impact of coffee in the workplace. They dive into how coffee evolved from a simple beverage to a vital part of office culture, influencing both productivity and social connections. Along the way, the hosts share their personal coffee rituals, bust some popular coffee myths, and sprinkle in fun trivia about the origins of coffee. The conversation wraps up with a lighthearted chat about the iconic figures they’d love to share a cup of coffee with, highlighting just how much coffee brings people together.

In this episode, Elyssa and Emily debate the unlimited paid time off (PTO) policy. Elyssa advocates for the benefits of unlimited PTO, highlighting its flexibility and potential for improved work-life balance. Emily counters with skepticism, discussing the hidden downsides, including management control and the culture of guilt surrounding time off. They explore the implications of unlimited PTO on employee well-being, company finances, and workplace dynamics, ultimately questioning whether this policy truly benefits employees. In this conversation, Emily and Elyssa explore the complexities of unlimited PTO policies, discussing the potential benefits and drawbacks. They emphasize the importance of company culture and management in determining the effectiveness of such policies. The discussion also touches on the significance of financial security and the necessity of saving for unexpected situations. Finally, they highlight the value of career opportunities and the importance of making informed choices regarding job offers and PTO policies.

In this episode, Emily and Elyssa discuss the romanticization of hustle culture, the societal pressures to work unpaid hours, and the impact of burnout on personal well-being. They share personal experiences, explore the difference between healthy hustle and exploitation, and provide insights on navigating internships and unpaid labor in the workforce. In this conversation, Elyssa and Emily explore the themes of work-life boundaries, the signs of burnout, the origins of hustle culture, and their personal motivations for hustling. They discuss the impact of toxic productivity on mental health, the importance of setting boundaries, and the need for self-care. The conversation also delves into how past experiences shape current work habits and the societal pressures contributing to a relentless work ethic. In this conversation, Emily and Elyssa explore the complexities of hustle culture, discussing personal motivations for hard work, the costs associated with relentless ambition, and the importance of setting boundaries. They emphasize the need for rest and self-care as forms of resistance against societal pressures to constantly achieve. The discussion also touches on red flags in workplace culture and the necessity of redefining success to include balance and joy.

This week, we’re joined by Gaston Seneza, a software engineer, entrepreneur, and global risk-taker who moved from Rwanda to Silicon Valley to chase his dreams. Gaston opens up about his bold moves, big failures, and how he found the courage to keep going when things didn’t work out. From his first startup to his latest role at Amazon Music, Gaston shares what it really takes to succeed in tech—and why failure might be your greatest teacher.

Performance reviews: the corporate Hunger Games of adulting. In this episode of Girls That Excel, Emily and Elyssa break down The Good, The Bad, and The Awkward of performance evaluations—why they exist, how they work, and what you can do to walk away with the raise, not the dreaded PIP. We cover how to prep like a pro (hello, brag doc), why a perfect score isn’t the goal, and what outcomes you can expect—from promotions and pay bumps to... well, not-so-great endings. Plus, we put Thomas in the hot seat for a mock performance review—roommate edition. Spoiler: it gets messy! Whether you’re heading into your first review or your tenth, we’ve got tips, stories, and advice to help you advocate for yourself and own the room.

Managing up isn’t just about survival—it’s about strategy. Whether your boss is all over your to-do list or nowhere to be found, we’re breaking down how to navigate different leadership styles without losing your mind (or your boundaries). We’ll cover practical tips for working with micromanagers, absentee leaders, and the rare unicorn boss who actually gets it right—so you can build better relationships, grow your career, and keep your sanity intact.

What does it take to turn a dream of owning a bar into reality? We’re sitting down with Too Soon owner Nick Flower and bartender Jaggar to talk about cocktails, community, and creativity. From NYC-inspired vibes to cookies at last call, Nick shares the highs and lows of bar ownership, the magic behind their “bartender’s choice” concept, and what makes Too Soon a Portland favorite.Visit Too Soon at 18 NE 28th Ave, Portland, ORFollow them on Instagram @toosoonpdx

Ever had a coworker conveniently “forget” how to do something, leaving you to pick up the slack? That’s weaponized incompetence—the strategic act of dodging responsibilities and offloading invisible labor onto others (often women). In this episode of Girls That Excel, Emily and Elyssa break down how this toxic workplace behavior manifests, share jaw-dropping stats, and reveal how to push back like a pro. Whether it’s work, relationships, or friendships, we’re calling it out and reclaiming our time. Plus, we’ll share HR resources you can turn to when your company fails you.

In this episode, we sit down with Emily’s very first friend in Portland, Pua, to talk about one of the biggest career shifts of all—leaving the workforce to become a stay-at-home mom. From her background as a behavioral therapist to her new role as a full-time parent, Pua shares the unexpected challenges, rewarding moments, and hilarious realities of having a one-year-old as her boss. We dive into pregnancy, work-life balance, and the transition to stay-at-home motherhood. Whether you're a parent, thinking about parenthood, or just here for the chaos, this episode is packed with laughs, real talk, and heartfelt moments.

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses mental illness, suicide, loss, and grief. If you or someone you love is struggling, please know you are not alone—resources are provided in this episode.Seven years ago, Emily lost her father to suicide. In this deeply personal episode, she shares his story, the impact of grief, and the realities of navigating mental health struggles. No one should go through this alone—let’s break the silence together. 💙U.S.: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (available 24/7)Canada: Talk Suicide Canada: 1-833-456-4566U.K.: Samaritans: 116 123

Join Elyssa and Emily as they take you on a journey of work travel—sharing safety hacks, coping with loneliness, and enjoying the adventure that comes with seeing new places for business. Tune in to learn how to make your next work trip safe, enjoyable, and a little less lonely. Plus, hear tips on how to maximize travel perks like hotel points and free nights!

We're kicking off the season of love with rejection—because don’t sh!t where you eat! This week, we’re talking about unwanted advances in the workplace, from awkward LinkedIn DMs to downright creepy client behavior. Emily and Elyssa share their wildest stories, the do’s and don’ts of handling workplace flirtation, and why you should never date a coworker (but if you do… well, don’t let anyone find out). Consider this your big sister advice on office romance, setting boundaries, and shutting down workplace weirdos—because nothing says Valentine’s Day like keeping it professional. Remember kids, Don’t f@*k your coworkers… but if you do, make sure no one ever finds out!

In this exciting episode of Girls That Excel, Elyssa and Emily take their podcast to a whole new level—getting matching tattoos live on air! Joining them is the visionary behind INKBUS, Markoon Dugally, Portland’s unique mobile tattoo studio housed in a transformed school bus. With over 18 years of experience and a passion for sustainability, Markoon shares his journey of turning a vintage bus into a fully licensed tattoo studio, his favorite freehand tattoo stories, and how Portland’s creative culture has shaped his work.Listen as Markoon discusses the challenges and rewards of creating art on wheels, his love for upcycled materials, and the unique vibe of Portland’s tattoo community. Plus, hear his advice for aspiring mobile business owners and the secrets to making tattoos personal and meaningful. Whether you’re a tattoo enthusiast or just love creative entrepreneurship, this episode is packed with inspiration, artistry, and fun.

In this episode of Girls That Excel, Emily and Elyssa welcome the brilliant Kendall Paige, a career coach and resume expert who has transformed the careers of over 500 professionals across the U.S. Kendall shares insider tips on creating standout resumes, optimizing LinkedIn profiles, and mastering networking—even if you're an introvert. From cringeworthy career advice to hilarious confessions (NASA, anyone?), this episode dives deep into navigating today’s job market with confidence.We also tackle a listener's dilemma: Are you the asshole for refusing to write your friend’s resume? Plus, Kendall dishes on life as a digital nomad, running her business while traveling the world, and balancing career goals with wanderlust. Whether you're job hunting, leveling up, or just looking for a good laugh, this episode has it all. Don’t miss it!

Jordan Eich is a seasoned Wealth Manager with over 10 years of experience in financial planning, now serving clients at Howe & Rusling in Rochester, New York. A CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and graduate of Marist College, Jordan excels at helping individuals and families navigate their financial journeys. Beyond his professional life, Jordan is a dedicated family man, a community leader, and a die-hard Buffalo Bills fan. His approachable style and commitment to financial literacy make him a trusted advisor for clients and a valued voice for those seeking financial empowerment.

This week, Emily and Elyssa catch up after a month apart and dive into the pressure of New Year’s resolutions. Why do we set ourselves up for failure with unrealistic goals?In this episode, we discuss how to map out goals in a way that works for you, the importance of body positivity, and why loving yourself should always be the priority. We shake off the guilt and show how goals can actually be fun.Tune in for real talk, practical tips, and a fresh perspective on making 2025 your year.

Get ready for some festive fun! In this short and sweet episode, Emily and Elyssa get super casual, sharing their holiday plans, wishing you a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays, and embracing the holiday spirit with some (terribly) sung Christmas carols that will make you laugh. It's the perfect cozy vibe to wrap up your year!We're taking a little holiday break and will return with fresh episodes on January 6th—so don’t miss this feel-good sendoff to 2024. Snuggle up, sip your cocoa, and join us for a laugh-filled celebration! 🎅✨

✨ Get ready for a magical experience! In this episode of Girls That excel, we’re joined by the incredible Josh Pele, a magician who has left celebrities and audiences worldwide in awe. From his humble beginnings to performing for the biggest names in Hollywood, Josh shares his journey, the secrets behind his success, and the tricks that make him unforgettable. Whether you’re a fan of magic, entrepreneurship, or just love a great story, this episode will leave you spellbound. Tune in to discover the man behind the magic and maybe learn a trick or two!

This week, we’re joined by the charismatic Sarah Griffiths, fresh from Season 21 of Big Brother UK! Sarah spills the tea on her time in the house, from untold stories and housemate drama to the lessons learned from the “Stop the Gloats” incident. She also shares how her life as a globe-trotting Spa Manager shaped her journey and what’s next for her after Big Brother.Don’t miss this candid and unfiltered chat with Sarah! Follow her on Instagram and TikTok at @SarahxGriffiths for more.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year… to cancel what no longer serves you! In this episode of Girls That excel, Emily and Elyssa introduce Cancelmas, a refreshing alternative to the typical New Year’s resolution. Rather than diving into January with unrealistic goals, Cancelmas focuses on clearing out the clutter—whether it’s digital, physical, or mental—to create space for success in 2025. From unsubscribing from emails and organizing your workspace to reflecting on what truly fuels you, Cancelmas is a low-pressure, high-impact way to prepare for the new year with clarity and intention. Tune in to learn how to make this empowering tradition part of your year-end reset and start the new year ready to excel!

Gobble Gobble, y’all! It’s Thanksgiving, and we’re serving up gratitude, laughter, and tips for surviving the holiday chaos on episode 15 of Girls That excel! This week, Emily and Elyssa dive into the ultimate guide for surviving the dreaded office potluck, complete with etiquette tips, food ideas, and ways to navigate those tricky coworker dynamics.We’re also shining a spotlight on the importance of giving back during the holiday season, with practical ways to support local food banks and volunteer in your community. And if you need a good laugh, we’re sharing some truly cringe-worthy Thanksgiving mishaps that might make your turkey drama feel like a breeze.From gratitude circles to hilarious family stories, this episode is packed with warmth, inspiration, and a little holiday chaos to get you in the Thanksgiving spirit. Tune in and gobble up this special episode—it’s one you won’t want to miss!

In Part 2 of Girls That Excel's Surviving the Office series, Emily and Elyssa tackle the highs and lows of working from home. They explore the freedom and flexibility remote work offers, but also dive into the challenges—like staying focused, avoiding isolation, and setting boundaries between work and personal life. With plenty of practical tips for creating a productive home office, managing distractions, and maintaining work-life balance, this episode is packed with advice for thriving in a remote work environment. Whether you’re a WFH pro or struggling to find your groove, this episode is for you!

In this fun and relatable episode of Girls That Excel, Emily and Elyssa kick off their 3-part series, Surviving the Office, with Part 1: Surviving the Cubicle. Joined by their social media consultant, Nina, live from her actual cubicle, they dive into the pros and cons of cubicle life. From personal stories about the challenges of working in a small, shared space to real-time tips from Nina on managing distractions and staying productive, this episode offers helpful advice for anyone navigating cubicle culture. Tune in for tips on how to organize your space, set boundaries, and handle the daily grind—while keeping your sanity intact!

In this revealing episode of Girls That Excel, Emily opens up about her experiences with CPTSD and how it affects her in the workplace, sharing strategies for managing emotions and staying high-performing under pressure. Elyssa, on the other hand, discusses how she compartmentalizes her emotions at work, highlighting both the benefits and potential downsides of keeping feelings separate from professional life. Together, they explore how their different upbringings and life experiences shape their leadership styles and influence how they manage and mentor others. Tune in for a candid conversation on emotional intelligence, professional growth, and navigating the workplace with unique perspectives.

In this episode of Girls That excel, we sit down with Alejandro Fortunes, also known as Dyebones, the designer-turned-TikTok sensation with over 1.7 million followers. From his hilarious storytelling to building a clothing brand, Alejandro has captivated his audience. In this episode, he opens up about the complexities of parasocial relationships—where fans feel like they know him more than he knows them—and how he navigates the challenges that come with having a massive online following. If you’re curious about building a brand, growing an audience, and setting boundaries with fans, this is an episode you don’t want to miss!

In this episode of Girls That excel, we’re talking all things spooky and professional! 🎃👻 From choosing the right costume to navigating office party etiquette, we’ll help you strike the perfect balance between fun and professionalism. Avoid common pitfalls like culturally insensitive costumes and inappropriate behavior, and get tips for how to participate without crossing any lines. Whether you love Halloween or dread the office festivities, this episode will guide you through a work-appropriate celebration that even HR will approve of!

In this episode of Girls That excel, we sit down with Lisa Lipton, a networking queen and powerhouse in Portland’s arts community. As Executive Director of 45th Parallel Universe and Opera Theater Oregon, co-founder of Portland’s first classical music bar, Mendelssohn’s, and an on-air host at All Classical Radio, Lisa shares her secrets to building meaningful connections, balancing multiple roles, and fostering community in the arts. Whether you’re in the arts or just looking to up your networking game, this episode is packed with tips and insights to help you grow your network and succeed. Don’t miss it!

In this episode of Girls That excel, we tackle the topic of mansplaining—what it is, why it happens, and how to handle it. Joined by Nick Ballenger, we dive into personal stories of being on the receiving end of unsolicited advice, explore the root causes of mansplaining, and break down ways to recognize and address it, whether in the workplace, social settings, or even online. We also share practical tips on setting boundaries, redirecting conversations, and empowering yourself to speak up. Tune in for a real talk on overcoming those condescending explanations and excelling confidently!

In this episode of Girls That excel, we explore essential self-care strategies for fall. As the season gets busier with work, family, and holiday prep, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. We share practical tips on managing stress, setting boundaries, and preventing burnout, so you can keep excelling at work and in life. Tune in for a real talk on balancing mental and physical health during this cozy pumpkin everything season!

In this episode of Girls That excel, we’re diving deep into the world of Manager 1:1s—those crucial check-ins that can make or break your career progress. We’ll explore why these meetings are so important, what you should say, and how to make the most of them, whether you’re in sales, analysis, or operations. We’ll also cover the essentials of tracking your progress, setting up your own KPIs, and the real deal with SMART goals. If you’ve ever wondered how to turn these meetings into powerful tools for your success, this episode is for you! Tune in for actionable advice on navigating these conversations and maximizing your impact at work.

In this episode of Girls That excel, we're diving into the reality of dealing with bad coworkers and toxic work environments. From sharing our listeners' most outrageous bad coworker stories to discussing the fine line between annoying behavior and harassment, we tackle it all. What do you do when your workplace doesn’t have HR, HR isn’t taking action, or the company is covering up bad behavior? We explore practical resources and strategies to help protect yourself and others from toxic environments. Whether navigating a difficult coworker or facing something more serious, this episode provides the insights you need to handle it confidently. Tune in for a real talk, practical advice, and a reminder that no one deserves to feel unsafe at work.

In this episode of Girls That excel, we’re thrilled to introduce our first guest, Cassidy Bek (soon-to-be Ballenger). Cass is not only a dear friend but also the inspiring founder of Excessa, a company dedicated to making exercise accessible and building stronger communities, especially in multi-family housing environments. We’ll dive into her journey from corporate fitness to entrepreneurship, discussing the challenges she’s faced, the strategies she’s used to succeed, and the importance of community in her business model. Whether you’re thinking about starting your own business or looking to make a difference in your community, Cass’s story will leave you motivated and ready to take on your next challenge. Don’t miss this insightful conversation with a true leader in her field!

In this episode of Girls That excel, Emily & Elyssa dive into the unglamorous but essential parts of building a career in your 20s. They discuss the realities of working jobs that aren't your passion, the importance of financial stability, and share their wildest first job stories. Whether you're grinding away at a job you don't love or figuring out your next move, this episode is packed with relatable insights and practical advice to help you navigate the ups and downs of early career life. Tune in for some real talk, a bit of laughter, and a reminder that it's okay not to have it all figured out just yet.

In this episode of Girls That excel, we take a deep dive into Emily’s personal experience of being laid off and navigating the challenging job market. Elyssa interviews Emily on the emotional and practical aspects of her journey—from the initial shock to bouncing back stronger than ever. Along the way, we’ll share valuable tips and tricks for not just landing a job, but excelling in your career. Whether you're facing unemployment or looking to advance your career, this episode is packed with actionable advice and insights to help you succeed. Tune in to learn how to turn setbacks into opportunities and take control of your career!Go to www.girlsthatexcel.com for the Interview prep guide mentioned at the end of the episode.

Welcome to the very first episode of Girls That excel! In this episode, get to know Emily and Elyssa, the dynamic duo we call E². We’re two passionate women on a mission to help you navigate the ups and downs of adulting and excelling in the business world. We’ll share our personal stories, the inspiration behind starting this podcast, and what you can expect from future episodes. Whether you’re fresh out of college or climbing the corporate ladder, we’re here to guide and inspire you. Join us as we embark on this exciting journey together!

In this teaser episode of Girls That excel, hosts Emily and Elyssa introduce you to the mission behind the podcast: empowering women (and everyone else!) to navigate the business world, overcome challenges, and build successful careers. From job search tips and interview strategies to finding your passion and managing finances, they share why this podcast is a must-listen for anyone aiming to excel. Whether you're starting out in your career or looking for ways to level up, Girls That excel is here to guide you every step of the way. Tune in to hear what inspired them to launch this project and what you can expect in future episodes.