Making It with Jess Ekstrom

Have you ever realized that the person who shaped you most never once thought of themselves as remarkable? Have you ever sat down with someone you've known your whole life — and learned something that changed everything?This episode is a little different. Today's guest isn't a founder or a bestselling author or a keynote speaker. She's something harder to find and harder to hold onto. She's Laurie Ekstrom — Jess's mom, Lala to the grandkids, and the woman who quietly, consistently made it possible for everyone around her to go for it. Jess recorded this episode to celebrate the launch of her book, Making It Without Losing It, because Laurie is — in so many ways — what that book is about: finding peace in the present while still believing in something bigger.This conversation is warm, funny, unfiltered, and at times, genuinely surprising. There's a Waffle House run at midnight. There's a confession about being unplanned. There's the story of a FLaurieda beach, a shared earbud, and a wedding song played during the darkest financial chapter of their family's life. And there's a two-minute message to Jack and Ellie — Jess's kids — that might be the most honest parenting advice in the whole episode.Tune In For:The 2 AM email Laurie sent Jess after watching her first local news segment — and the revelation it sparked about purpose, motherhood, and what contribution actually looks like"My brainwaves are so flat I don't think I could work a toll booth" — Laurie's honest account of what the early stay-at-home years actually felt like, and the one thing Jess's dad said that turned it aroundThe Bernie Madoff chapter — what it was like when a family betrayal and a financial collapse arrived at the same time, and how Jess's dad responded with a single earbud and their wedding song on the beachWhy the candy drawer matters more than you think — and what Laurie got right about raising kids with an abundance mindset around food (and everything else)The midnight Waffle House run and what it taught Jess about building a home where kids call you first when things go sidewaysTwo generations of "go, go, go" — a raw moment about busyness as armor, a silent retreat, and 60+ years of unfelt feelings finally showing up all at onceWhat Laurie is still working on at 65 — including a woodworking class she will never take again, and why trying the wrong thing opened up a whole new worldThe advice Laurie wishes someone had given her in high school — and the message she wants Jack and Ellie to carry with themThis episode drops on the same day as Jess's book, Making It Without Losing It — grab your copy wherever books are sold.Resources & Links📖 Making It Without Losing It by Jess Ekstrom: Available now wherever books are sold📸 Follow Jess on Instagram: @jessekstrom🎙️ Making It with Jess Ekstrom: Subscribe + leave a review wherever you listenProduced by Making It with Jess Ekstrom and Walk West🧡 Soulful Sidebar: What If Your Purpose Was Always the People?Laurie spent years quietly wondering if she had done enough. Was she contributing? Did she have a purpose? The answer came at two in the morning, watching her daughter on the local news, handing out headbands to kids in hospitals.She hadn't built a company or written a book. But she had built the person who did.There's a version of making it that looks like a highlight reel — the launch, the press, the milestone. And then there's the version that shows up in a two AM email, a Waffle House booth at midnight, a shared earbud on a dark beach. The people who love you the loudest don't always have the most accolades. They're just the ones who showed up — every time, without being asked — and made it possible for you to go.That's Laurie. And if you're lucky, you know someone like her too.

Have you ever realized, only after it was too late, that a person was one of the most important ones in your life? Have you ever found something life-changing somewhere you never thought to look?This episode is a story Jess has been sitting with for almost five years. Not because it isn't important — but because she didn't yet have the language for what it changed in her. It's about a $20-a-night RV park in Las Vegas with flickering streetlights, nightly helicopter noise, and a check-cashing place on the corner. It's about two strangers who saw Jess's husband eating alone at a picnic table and pulled up a chair. And it's about what happened — years later — when Jess texted to check in and didn't hear back.Tony and Linda Oyster started as RV neighbors. They became family. And the lesson they left behind quietly reframes everything: the places we go, the milestones we chase, the next thing we're always running toward.In This EpisodeJess shares the story of Tony and Linda — and why, after three years on the road visiting some of the most breathtaking places in the country, a worn-down Las Vegas RV park is still her honest answer to "what was your favorite stop?" She also offers four small, practical ways to find more meaning inside the life you already have — no big life overhaul required. Because most of the time, meaning doesn't show up at a mountaintop. It shows up in who you're sitting next to.4 Ways to Practice Intentional PresenceSlow your exits. Linger in conversations that matter. Ask one more question — and go one sentence deeper than "how are you?"Treat people like the destination. Outcomes are easy to chase. Relationships are the whole point.Notice who makes you feel more like yourself. Not more impressive. Not more productive. Just more you. Spend more time there.Remember: ambition and presence aren't opposites. You can want more and appreciate what's right in front of you.Resources & Links🎙️ Making It with Jess Ekstrom: Subscribe + leave a review wherever you listen📸 Follow Jess on Instagram: @jessekstromProduced by Making It with Jess Ekstrom🪑 Soulful Sidebar: What If the Destination Was Never the Point?We optimize for places, titles, and milestones. We take the mountaintop photo. We check the box. But Tony and Linda — who spent 15 years on the road, slides and all — weren't remembered for where they went. They were remembered for how they showed up beside a stranger eating alone at a picnic table.The question worth sitting with: In five years, what will the people around you remember about this season? Not what you accomplished. How you showed up. Who you made time for. Whether you put the phone down.That's the whole thing. That's making it.

Have you ever made a choice that felt completely right to you — but everyone around you thought you were giving up? Have you ever wondered if slowing down and leaning in could actually be the same move?Neha Ruch was fresh out of Stanford Business School, climbing fast, and checking every box the Lean In era told her to check. Then she had her son on New Year's Day 2016 — and in the fog of new motherhood, three o'clock in the morning, at the end of the internet, something cracked open. Not a crisis. A clarity. All I need to be is myself. And this kid loves me for it. So she downshifted. Not for her son. For herself. And the world had a lot of opinions about it.What followed was a decade-long slow build — a Squarespace site, a weekly link roundup, five Instagram posts, and a quiet but fierce belief that ambitious women who make room for family life deserve better than the binary they'd been handed. That belief became a bestselling book, The Power Pause, a movement, and a membership community rewriting what it means to be a high-achieving woman in the messy middle of work and family life. Neha isn't anti-ambition. She's anti-one-size-fits-all. And in this episode, she makes the case that caregiving isn't a career gap — it's a leadership lab.Tune In For:Why Neha chose to downshift after Stanford — and why it had nothing to do with what was "better for her son"How motherhood threatens every identity pillar of high-achieving women — productivity, spontaneity, fitness, relevance — and what to do when it happens to youThe Harvard Business Review research that might be the most healing data point working moms have never heard (spoiler: it's not about hours)"Pause within a pause" — what happened when Neha's second child destabilized everything she'd built, and why "keeping the lights on" is a completely valid strategyWhy the Power Pause didn't hit the New York Times bestseller list — and the honest, still-raw conversation about gold stars, success metrics, and rewiring your own wiringHow to frame a career pause in a job interview — and what Neha wishes every employer knew about the non-traditional leadership skills caregiving actually buildsThe "write your ideal day in five years" exercise for anyone whose self-worth is tied to their productivityWhy comparing yourself to others signals insecurity — and the one shift that turns envy into fuelAbout Neha RuchNeha Ruch is the founder of Mother Untitled, author of the bestselling book The Power Pause, and a speaker and advocate redefining ambition for the modern mother. After graduating from Stanford Business School and stepping back from a fast-track career to raise her children, Neha built a movement — and eventually a membership community — dedicated to showing that professional pauses and downshifts are a strategic, feminist, and deeply creative choice. Her work has helped thousands of women reclaim their identity, their confidence, and their careers on their own terms.Resources & Links📖 The Power Pause (book): Available wherever books are sold🌐 Free resources: thepowerpause.com💛 Membership community: thepowerpause.com/me📸 Follow Neha on Instagram: @neharuch🎙️ Making It with Jess Ekstrom: Subscribe + leave a review wherever you listenProduced by Making It with Jess Ekstrom and Walk West🌿 Soulful Sidebar: Rewriting the Resume GapThe cultural image of a woman "on pause" hasn't been updated since the 1970s. We inherited June Cleaver. But today's woman stepping back from the workforce is likely coming in with 8–10 years of professional experience — and layering on skills that don't show up on a LinkedIn profile: crisis management, negotiation, logistics, community building, and a kind of perspective that only comes from being fully responsible for another human life.Neha's challenge to employers — and to the women themselves: Stop calling it a gap. Start calling it what it is. A power pause. A leadership lab. A season that didn't pause the growth. It just changed the classroom.

Have you ever started something just to make people happy — and accidentally built a business? Have you ever landed your biggest dream moment (hi, Oprah) and found yourself on the other end of it crying... because the crates broke?Marissa Allen knows both sides of that coin intimately. She didn't set out to be a founder. She was an NFL wife, a former college soccer player, a stay-at-home mom of two tiny humans (one of whom was six months old, crawling around the kitchen), and someone who just really loved baking cookies for her husband's teammates on the Houston Texans. It was a teammate trying to buy those cookies that planted the seed. She was reluctant. Her husband wasn't.What followed wasn't a clean, linear launch story. It was a $5,000 website (the ancient kind where you still typed in your credit card), a rented commercial kitchen at $20 an hour, Sunday baking marathons, and Monday morning 6 AM flights back from Kansas City with two kids in tow. Today, Cookie Society is a multi-location, nationally shipping, Oprah's Favorite Things-certified, cult-followed gourmet cookie brand with 88 employees — and a breakfast-only March menu that people literally line up overnight to get. They didn't build it by throwing money at it. They built it by doing every single job themselves first, scaling incrementally, and trusting the data.Tune In For:How Marissa accidentally launched a business by baking for NFL locker rooms and getting an offer she almost turned downWhy opening during a global pandemic was actually grace — and what would have happened if they'd gone full send without itThe Taylor Swift ticket strategy: how Cookie Society created a holiday around scarcity, seasonal drops, and Cinnamon Roll Sundays to drive demand most brands only dream aboutDaily tears behind Oprah's Favorite Things — the collapsed wooden crates, the angry emails, the call from New York, and the lesson that even your biggest win can bring you to your kneesWhy Marissa knows less now than when she started — and why that's actually a sign you're scaling rightHow she went from hiring people to execute her vision to hiring people to expand it (and why she voluntarily demoted herself from CEO)The LinkedIn mirror strategy: how to find someone five steps ahead of you and reverse-engineer their path when you can't afford to hire yetWhy knowing your numbers is a power move, especially for women founders — and how data turns "maybe we can" into a hard yes or noComparing vs. Inspiring: the one question Marissa asks herself to figure out if she's in a confident season or an insecure oneAbout Marissa AllenMarissa Allen is the co-founder of Cookie Society, a Dallas-based gourmet cookie brand with multiple brick-and-mortar locations, a national shipping operation, and a deeply loyal following built on bold flavors, seasonal exclusivity, and an authentic story. A former college soccer player turned NFL wife turned entrepreneur, Marissa bootstrapped Cookie Society from a rented commercial kitchen to Oprah's Favorite Things — and is now scaling toward 10 locations with a team of 88. She runs the business alongside her husband Jeff, who heads up marketing, while Marissa focuses on operations, systems, and the creative vision that started it all.Resources & LinksCookie Society: cookiesociety.comShip the breakfast box or classic bestsellers nationwideFollow Marissa on Instagram: @cookiesociety (and her personal brand!)Making It with Jess Ekstrom: Subscribe + leave a review wherever you listenProduced by Walk West - Making It with Jess Ekstrom🍳 Soulful Sidebar: The Scarcity Mindset vs. The Abundance PlayMost product businesses default to scarcity thinking — I need to keep selling what works. Cookie Society flipped it. By pulling their most beloved items off the menu seasonally, they didn't lose customers. They created a holiday. People mark their calendars. They show up overnight. They order more because they can't choose just one.The lesson? Abundance isn't about always having more available. It's about confidence that demand will be there when you're ready. That takes trust in your product, your team, and your ability to recreate the magic. Marissa and Jeff saw it first with Cinnamon Roll Sundays. Then they scaled the principle. Now it's a March tradition.That's not luck. That's a brand with a backbone.

We spend our entire lives avoiding "goodbye." We trade Instagram handles, promise to "catch up soon," and say "until next time"—all to protect ourselves from the discomfort of a finished chapter. But what happens when you lean into the finality instead?In this reflective solo episode, Jess Ekstrom breaks down a chance encounter at a Colorado campground that changed her entire perspective on presence. When an older traveler told her, "You kids have a nice life," it didn't feel like a well-wish—it felt like a gut punch.Jess explores the beauty of impermanence and why acknowledging that a moment will never happen again is actually the secret to enjoying it.In this episode, we discuss:The "Until Next Time" Trap: Why our digital age makes it impossible to have true closure and how that prevents us from being fully present.The Japanese Tea Tradition: A lesson from a matcha bowl about noticing the "foam at the bottom"—the unique shapes that only happen once.Hurry Up and Relax: Jess’s struggle with "sprinting" through the day to get to the "good part," only to find her brain won't shut off once she gets there.The Turtle Pace: How walking with toddlers (who stop for every sidewalk flower and power-line bird) is the ultimate masterclass in noticing the extraordinary in the ordinary.Don’t Miss It: Why we shouldn't get so focused on creating a "good life" that we forget to actually have a "good day."Key Quotes:"The reality is, a 'next time' is never guaranteed. But the comfort in saying next time makes it easier to move on because there's a chance the story isn't over.""Impermanence isn't a sad thing. In fact, it's the opposite. It's a reminder that all we have is now. So we might as well just enjoy it.""Sometimes relaxing isn't the reward. It's the work itself."Featured in this Episode:John Acuff: Author and friend who provided the "Don't Miss It" mantra.Andy Bernard (The Office): For the bittersweet reminder about knowing you're in the "good old days."A Challenge for Your Week:Next time you're in a conversation or a beautiful moment, try to find your "matcha foam." Identify one tiny, specific detail about this exact moment that will never be replicated again.

Have you ever had a dream job—the kind people tell you is the "coolest job in the world"—only to realize that your identity has become so wrapped up in it that you don’t know who you are without the title? How do you walk away from a legacy to build something entirely your own?Welcome to Making It with Jess Ekstrom. This week, Jess sits down with Lindsay Shookus, the legendary former producer and head of the talent department at Saturday Night Live. After 20 years of discovering stars and managing the chaos of live television, Lindsey made the "wobbly" decision to leave 30 Rock and redefine what success looks like on her own terms.In this candid conversation, Lindsey opens up about the grit required to survive 20-hour days, the lonely reality of hyper-fame, and the epiphany that led her to co-found Women Work Fing Hard*—a community built on active support rather than just "mentorship."Tune in for:The SNL Hustle: How a girl from Buffalo with "Southern-adjacent" roots at UNC-Chapel Hill landed a job at SNL and worked her way from assistant to talent mogul.The Fame Pedestal: What Lindsey learned about success by watching the world’s most famous people up close, and why "street cred" isn't all it's cracked up to be.The "Wobbly" Transition: The identity crisis that follows leaving a high-profile career and how to navigate the "data" of who stays in your life when the power of your position is gone.Receive the Motherfing Data:* Lindsey’s viral-ready advice on relationships and business—how to stop "waiting to be chosen" and start looking at people's actions as objective information.Women Work Fing Hard:* The accidental origin story of her women’s community and why the goal is always "How can I help you?" rather than "Who can help me?"The Curse of the Good Girl: Why Lindsey normalizes "bombing" for her 12-year-old daughter and the importance of being uncomfortable to get better.Building a Boat: What it’s like for an ambitious woman to find a partner who asks, "How can I best support you?"The Art of the Question: Why being a curious mind is the most undervalued skill in networking and life.About Lindsay Shookus:Lindsay Shookus is an Emmy Award-winning producer, speaker, and coach. Best known for her two-decade career at Saturday Night Live, she now uses her expertise in talent and trust to advise hedge funds, produce documentaries, and empower women through her community, Women Work F***ing Hard.Resources & Links:Lindsay Shookus’s Website: https://lindsayshookus.comWomen Work Fing Hard:*Follow Lindsey on Instagram: @Shookusshookus The Curse of the Good Girl by Rachel Simmons:Making It with Jess Ekstrom is produced by Walk West and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop.How to "Receive the Data" in Your CareerLindsey talks about treating feedback-and even rejection-as objective data. This shift moves you from an emotional participant to a strategic scientist of your own life.

Have you ever felt like you had to mute your personality, change your style, or "fit the mold" just to be taken seriously in business? What if the very things people told you to tone down were actually your greatest superpowers for building a $100M empire?Welcome to the premiere episode of Making It with Jess Ekstrom. This week, Jess sits down with Anne Mahlum, the visionary founder of [Solidcore] and Back on My Feet. Anne famously raised $210 million from private equity while wearing see-through crop tops, proving that authenticity isn't just a buzzword—it’s a high-stakes competitive advantage.In this raw and uncensored conversation, Anne pulls back the curtain on her $100 million exit, why she refuses to be a "one-hit wonder," and how she transitioned from a "starving founder" to a fitness mogul. They dive deep into the "hustle muscle" fueled by early pain, the importance of "happy endings" in business, and the biological shifts of entering her next big chapter: motherhood.Tune in for:The story behind the see-through crop tops and why Anne refused to change her hair or style for private equity partners.Why "fake it till you make it" is bad advice and how trying to fit in actually makes you feel smaller and less confident.Anne’s three core values—Authenticity, Transparency, and Winning—and how they guided her through $100M negotiations.The "Chip on the Shoulder": Why many high-performing entrepreneurs are fueled by a need to prove themselves and the realization that achievement doesn't equal love.The $100 Million Exit: How Anne planned her last day years in advance to ensure a celebratory, "non-messy" transition.Financial Leverage: Why Anne advises founders to take money off the table early so they aren't "starving" when it's time to negotiate an exit.Radical Responsibility: Why claiming "it's my fault" for everything from low energy to a stalled career is the ultimate power move to regain control.Relationships and Polarity: Anne’s take on settling into a partnership with her husband as an ambitious, breadwinning woman.How to find a "game you can win" by sharpening your unique 8, 9, and 10-level skill sets.About Anne Mahlum:Anne Mahlum is a speaker, investor, and the founder of [Solidcore], a boutique fitness powerhouse she scaled to 100+ locations before a massive exit. She is also the founder of the non-profit Back on My Feet. Anne is a dedicated advocate for financial literacy and empowers founders to build businesses that reflect their truest selves.Resources & Links:Anne Mahlum’s Website: https://annemahlum.comFollow Anne on Instagram: @annemahlumBrene Brown’s Values Exercise:Making It with Jess Ekstrom is produced by Walk West and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop.A Note on Radical Responsibility & Starting BlocksIn this episode, Anne and Jess discuss the reality of "starting blocks." While Anne emphasizes taking radical responsibility, she also acknowledges the statistical realities of the business world. For context, women-led startups received only about 2% of total venture capital funding in recent years, and for Black and Latina founders, that number often drops below 1%.As Anne notes, recognizing privilege or systemic hurdles doesn't mean you stop working; it means you use your position to "lift others up" and change the statistics for the next generation of founders.

What if an algorithm could perfectly articulate the unfair advantages men have in business, and what if that knowledge was the catalyst you needed to completely change your career?In the season finale on Amplify, Jess sits down with LauraAura, host of the wildly popular Gutsy Podcast and an acclaimed speaker. Laura shares the moment a Taylor Swift song drove her to ask ChatGPT a provocative question: "How would my career look different if I were a man?"The AI's response—listing everything from earning more money to having faster access to "power rooms"—pissed her off, but also activated a plan. Laura breaks down the five core areas where women are often held back and details the specific, gutsy move she attached to each one, creating a powerful blueprint for other women to follow.Tune in for:The exact list of biases ChatGPT revealed, including:Earning more money (complete with stat ranges).Access to more power rooms.Boldness being seen as confidence, not a risk.Outsourcing and delegating faster.Less self-questioning.Laura's five "healthy spirals"—a practical, gutsy move for each bias to help women close the gap.Why "pitching full price" is the first gutsy move you need to make to fund outsourcing and regain your time.The power of "creating the room" or simply showing up in spaces like you belong there.The surprising secret to showing up as your full, bold self on platforms like LinkedIn (hint: it involves getting raw and authentic).The best advice for overcoming analysis paralysis and the constant urge to overthink your next step: "Do one thing."How to use your "evidence bank"—a track record of your past accomplishments—to eliminate self-questioning and own your worth.About Laura Aura:LauraAura is a speaker, brand strategist, and the host of The Gutsy Podcast, where she encourages thousands of women to stop overthinking and start doing the thing they can't stop thinking about. She is known for her bold, direct, and deeply encouraging approach to female ambition.Resources & Links:Listen to The Gutsy Podcast:https://lauraaura.com/the-gutsy-podcast/Follow LauraAura on Instagram & TikTok: @thatLauraAuraAmplify with Jess is produced by Walk West and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop.

The world is constantly in a state of chaos—from an unexpected crisis at work to the personal high stakes of having a baby during a global pandemic. How do you find the calm confidence needed to navigate those moments when you feel most exposed?This week on Amplify, Jess sits down with Caitlin Gardner, a veteran crisis communications expert who is the founder of Blooming Communications. Caitlin's professional life involves helping Fortune 500 companies communicate with calm maturity during crises. Her personal life, however, includes having a baby at the peak of the 2020 pandemic while her husband lost his job—a high-stakes moment that uniquely prepared her for the work she does today.Caitlin shares how to apply the lessons learned in the delivery room to the boardroom, giving you the practical tools to handle unexpected public scrutiny, internal high stakes, and even the double-edged sword of going viral.Tune in for:Caitlin's incredible story of delivering a baby in April 2020, juggling a crisis communications job in the hard-hit cruise industry, and the power of focusing on one goal in a chaotic environment.The concept of the "Reputation Bank Account": making positive deposits so you have the benefit of the doubt when you need to make a withdrawal (like when you fumble publicly).The difference between good-intentioned feedback and negative trolling, and the importance of assuming good intent in professional communications.Caitlin's take on cancel culture, and why brands and people must define their core values to maintain clarity in polarizing times.Why it’s essential to be prepared for the worst-case scenario (the "tabletop exercise") so you can be agile and confident when chaos hits.How to handle the urge to jump on viral trends and why every piece of content—even your social media hook—needs a strategic rationale and intentionality.A key reminder for leaders: You don't get to choose when the stakes are high for others, so be thoughtful about how you deliver high-stakes feedback.About Caitlin Gardner:Caitlin Gardner is the Founder of Blooming Communications, a strategic communications consultancy. She is an expert in high-stakes communications, reputation management, and crisis preparedness, helping clients bring "calm confidence" to moments of unexpected chaos.Resources & Links:Follow Caitlin Gardner on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caitlingardner/Blooming Communications: https://bloomingcom.comAmplify with Jess is produced by Walk West and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop.

Have you ever confused a bigger salary with a richer life? What if the key to getting what you truly want isn’t a better tactic, but a deeper understanding of your own values? In this Amplify episode, Jess sits down with negotiation expert Kathryn Valentine, a former McKinsey consultant with an impressive background featured in Harvard Business Review and The Wall Street Journal. Kathryn's journey started with a high-stakes failure—a negotiation so bad it ended with a security escort. Still, that experience led her to discover that proper negotiation is a valuable tool for life design, not just a means to secure a salary bump.Kathryn reveals how to identify your true currency (it’s often not money), the critical research that proves women significantly underestimate their market value, and the simple questions you can ask to strip away societal expectations and define your own "rich life."Tune in for:The shocking story of Kathryn’s first negotiation attempt that ended in her being escorted out of a large company.The "Rich Life Design" concept: how seeing the long-term impact of choices from her 70-year-old grandparents taught her to prioritize currencies like time, credibility, and autonomy.What you really want is often a promotion (for long-term financial gain) or credibility (for respect), not just a raise.The "Magic Wand" question helps strip away fear and societal expectations, revealing what you truly want.The "Ask Relationally" formula that virtually eliminates the risk of backlash and moves "no" from a rejection to a piece of information.Why assuming good intent is the key to overcoming the fear of being "annoying" when following up.Kathryn's personal thoughts on how motherhood has changed her perspective over time and why she now chooses to pursue only projects that bring her "good exhaustion."About Kathryn Valentine:Kathryn Valentine is a negotiation expert, speaker, and former McKinsey consultant. Her work has been featured in the Harvard Business Review and The Wall Street Journal, and she advises companies such as JPMorgan Chase. She is dedicated to equipping women with the tools to negotiate for their richest life.Resources & Links:Get the "76 Things You Can Negotiate" List: https://seventysixthings.comWatch Kathryn Valentine's TED Talk:Follow Kathryn Valentine on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathrynvalentine/Amplify with Jess is produced by Walk West and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop.

Have you ever questioned if you should quit your career to focus on family, only to realize that constant self-doubt is draining energy you could use elsewhere? What if continuing to work is not just a financial necessity, but a vital investment in your own identity?This week on Amplify, Jess sits down with Hazel Sy, a Fortune 500 executive, board member, and powerful advocate for working parents. Hazel shares the moment her childcare plan fell through, the panic and guilt that followed, and the eventual mindset shift that allowed her to thrive as both a dedicated professional and a devoted mom.Hazel opens up about the emotional journey of creating her viral TED Talk, the shocking financial reality of childcare, and the surprising ways that conscious parenting techniques can make you a more intentional and connected leader at work.Tune in for:Hazel's eye-opening story of her childcare falling through and the constant question she asked herself: "Should I quit?"Why the high cost of childcare is actually a financial and personal investment that pays off in career growth and a preserved sense of self.The "mother AND" philosophy: how to choose a parenting style where your children see you succeeding and failing, not just staying home.The subtle societal double standards around working parents, including the "babysitting" comment and the different applause men and women receive.How Hazel consciously uses the word "study" instead of "work" around her children to avoid modeling a workaholic lifestyle.The emotional journey of getting 67 rejections before landing her TEDx Talk, and the critical moment when she decided to scrap all the feedback and write from the heart.How the skills of conscious parenting—like giving two choices instead of a demand—make you a better leader and influencer in the workplace.About Hazel Sy:Hazel Sy is a Fortune 500 executive, a board member, a highly requested speaker, and an alumnus of Mic Drop Academy. She is a passionate advocate for working parents and a living example of how intentionality and purpose can allow you to thrive in both your professional and personal life.Resources & Links:Watch Hazel's TED Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YE-PN4i-eAEFind Hazel's Speaker Prep Checklist:Follow Hazel Sy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thehazelsy/Visit Hazel Sy's site: https://www.hazelsy.com/ Amplify with Jess is produced by Walk West and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop.

Have you ever secretly loved being underestimated? That feeling of having nothing to lose and everything to prove. But what happens when you start to succeed, and that pressure of being watched threatens to sabotage your progress?This week on Amplify, Jess sits down with her dear friend, author, and speaker Mary Marantz, whose new book Underestimated explores how to break free from the fears that hold us back. Mary gets candid about her journey, from being told by a high school teacher that she wouldn't make it, to the destructive cycle of perfectionism and self-sabotage that comes with success.She shares how she's learned to embrace a new kind of fuel for her ambition and why she believes the very act of facing fear means you're about to do work that truly matters.Tune in for:Why being an underdog is a "role of a lifetime" that can destroy your ambition if you aren’t careful.The surprising connection between childhood chaos and the urge to self-sabotage as an adult.The "Motivation-Defeat Cycle" and how to break free from the all-or-nothing mindset.Why consistency will always beat excellence in the long run.Mary’s powerful reframe: Fear isn't a creative force; it's a "boring liar" that uses the same broken scripts on everyone.How to identify your "achiever type" and use that knowledge to overcome your unique fears.The truth about asking for help and why we’re often our own worst enemies when it comes to showing vulnerability.About Mary Marantz:Mary Marantz is an author, speaker, and entrepreneur whose work empowers people to unlock their purpose and do the work they were put on this earth to do. She is a New York Times bestselling author of Dirt and Slow Growth Equals Strong Roots, and her newest book is titled Underestimated.Resources & Links:Get Mary's free first chapter and Achiever Quiz: https://namethefear.comFollow Mary Marantz on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marymarantz/Follow Mary Marantz on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-marantz-726461b/Listen to the Mary Marantz Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-mary-marantz-show/id1454133596Amplify with Jess is produced by Walk West and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop.

Amy Porterfield really wanted freedom, flexibility, and autonomy in her career.She entered the digital course industry, which allowed her to work from home while still making money. Starting small, her first course made just $267, but she pulled in over $100 million in revenue through tweaks and relaunches.How did she do it?  How can you leverage digital courses to balance work and family life and generate income while being present for your family?Let's find out!And if you’re ready to take the first steps yourself, Amy is breaking it all down inside her brand-new Course Confident Bootcamp. Over 5 days, she’ll walk you through 4 simple steps to turn your talk or story into a course—without the overwhelm.It all starts September 11.👉 Join Course Confident for $47This is a replay from Aug 28th, 2024. ---Rate Amplify on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and leave a review for Jess Ekstrom.Amplify with Jess is produced by Walk West, and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop

Have you ever felt like you're not what meets the eye, with a deep, complex backstory hidden behind a seemingly successful exterior? What if the most difficult parts of your past, the ones you tried to escape, are actually the secret ingredients to your greatest triumphs and your most powerful message?This week on Amplify, Jess sits down with Adam Tanaka, a founder and speaker who has built and sold companies and now teaches others how to unlock their most creative selves through the power of play. Adam's journey is far from linear and his seemingly picture-perfect success story is built on a childhood filled with trauma and chaos, where a game of hide and seek was an act of survival.He opens up about his "normal," which included a mother struggling with addiction, his heroic act of saving her from a house fire at age 15, and how that trauma unknowingly followed him into adulthood. Adam shares how his success led to one of his darkest moments, what truly saved his life, and the powerful framework he created to ensure he and others always have a community to fall back on.Tune in for:The childhood trauma that led Adam to seek control and stability by building his own businesses.How Adam learned to stop waiting for permission to play and why he believes play is a crucial tool for both creativity and healing.The moment a sheep farmer in Iceland changed Adam's perspective on overcomplicating life and rigid goals.The importance of building your community before you need it.The "Community Tag" framework, a powerful and simple system for checking in on those around you that Adam created after a near-fatal moment.Why Adam's mission as a speaker is to help people bring play into the workplace and life.About Adam Tanaka:Adam Tanaka is a founder, speaker, and advocate for the power of play. With a background in building and selling companies, Adam's mission is to help people move from rigid, "hustle culture" to a more creative and connected way of working and living. He is the founder of a kids' brand, cavehousesupply.com, and an author.Resources & Links:Cave House Supply: https://cavehousesupply.comAdam Tanaka's Website: https://adamtanaka.comFollow Adam Tanaka on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-tanaka-7b43a85b/Amplify with Jess is produced by Walk West and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop.

Have you ever felt completely lost in your career, only to find that your most challenging experiences became your greatest assets? And how can AI, often seen as a threat to creativity, actually unlock your most authentic stories?This week on Amplify, Jess sits down with Patrice Poltzer, co-founder of My Story Pro AI, a storytelling and AI strategist, and a former award-winning producer for The Today Show. Patrice has a somewhat non-linear journey - from the grit of door-to-door book sales and navigating a toxic startup culture after leaving her dream job, to more unexpected pivots and entrepreneurial endeavors.Plus Patrice talks about her "lost twenties" - and why they were foundational to her success.Tune in for:Why embracing non-traditional career paths and "being behind" can be your unfair advantage.The unexpected "grit" and "hustle muscle" developed through challenging early career experiences.Patrice's jarring experience transitioning from a dream corporate job to a toxic startup, and what she learned about knowing when to walk away.How a personal crisis (her husband losing his job, moving to a new country) became the "fire energy" that fueled her entrepreneurial leap into AI.Why Patrice, as a seasoned storyteller, initially resisted AI but was "jolted" into embracing it.Her revolutionary approach to AI: using it as a "mirror" to uncover your deepest insights and understand your audience, rather than just generating content.The crucial difference between soulless AI-generated content and emotionally connective storytelling.How Patrice’s tool, My Story Pro AI, acts as a "third-party" coach, helping founders overcome self-censorship and unleash their authentic voice.Why small business owners and solopreneurs now have access to "six-figure marketing research insights" through AI, a previously unattainable advantage.How AI can help you "get out of your own feedback loop" and broaden your perspective on what truly resonates with your audience.Patrice's advice for the "AI-shy" or "AI-resistant" creative, ensuring your unique voice and tone are amplified, not replaced.About Patrice Poltzer:Patrice Poltzer is the co-founder of My Story Pro AI, a storytelling and AI strategist, and a former award-winning producer for NBC's Today Show. With a unique blend of media expertise and entrepreneurial grit, Patrice empowers individuals and businesses to leverage AI as a tool for deeper self-discovery and more authentic, impactful storytelling.Resources & Links:My Story Pro AI, free for 7 days: https://patricepoltzercreative.com/story-pro-for-businessFollow Patrice Poltzer on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricepoltzer/Amplify with Jess is produced by Walk West and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop.

Do you sometimes feel like your creative well has run dry? In a world increasingly dominated by AI and efficiency, how do we protect and cultivate our unique human spark?This week on Amplify, Jess sits down with Natalie Nixon, PhD, a renowned creativity expert, innovation strategist, and author, famously dubbed the "Creativity Whisperer to the C-Suite." Natalie shares profound insights on how to reclaim your inherent creativity, understand its real-world ROI, and navigate the evolving relationship between human ingenuity and artificial intelligence.Drawing inspiration from childhood wonder, Natalie and Jess explore how our natural creative impulses often get "disciplined" by traditional education and societal norms. You'll learn why "getting lost on purpose" can be a powerful catalyst for new ideas and how leveraging AI can actually amplify, rather than stifle, your human creativity.We tackle:Why children are the ultimate "wonder mentors," modeling the pure, uninhibited creativity we often lose.The profound impact of educational systems on stifling or cultivating creativity, drawing from Natalie's diverse schooling experiences.The importance of striking a balance between "wonder" and "rigor" in fostering creative thinking.Natalie's pragmatic and optimistic view on the relationship between AI and human creativity.Why intentionally "getting lost" (literally and figuratively) can unlock serendipity and new ideas.The concept of a "human revolution," not just a tech revolution, and how AI creates "spaciousness" for deeper human connection and thought.The value of liminal space and embracing ambiguity—just like artists do.How to use AI to ask better questions and prompt deeper reflection.The power of incorporating "daydream breaks" into your daily routine to activate your brain's default mode network.Why allowing for boredom (especially for kids!) is an invitation to imagination.A brilliant hack for overcoming creative blocks when the "stakes" of getting paid influence your work: "role-playing with your past self."Why "plenty of ideas end up on the cutting floor" is not failure, but "flow."About Natalie Nixon, PhD:Natalie Nixon, PhD, is a global expert in creativity, innovation, and the future of work. She advises leaders on how to make their organizations more nimble and innovative through her unique approach to applied creativity. As a speaker, strategist, and author of The Creativity Leap, Natalie empowers individuals and teams to unlock their creative potential and drive tangible results. She is also launching her new book, Move, Think, Rest, in 2025.Resources & Links:Pre-order Move, Think, Rest by Natalie Nixon: https://www.amazon.com/Move-Think-Rest-Productivity-Relationship/dp/0306835584Download Natalie's Wonder-Rigor Tip Sheet: https://www.figure8thinking.com/wonderrigor-tip-sheet/Figure 8 Thinking: figure8thinking.comFollow Natalie Nixon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalienixonphd/Follow Natalie Nixon on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/natwnixon/Amplify with Jess is produced by Walk West and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop.

Are you tired of feeling like you have to be inauthentic to be liked? Do you struggle with setting boundaries and advocating for yourself, fearing it might damage your relationships?This week on Amplify, Jess sits down with her dear friend, Kwame Christian, a top-booked negotiation keynote speaker and host of the #1 podcast, Negotiate Anything. Kwame shares a deeply personal and formative childhood story that shaped his journey from people-pleaser to negotiation expert, revealing how his early experiences led him to compromise himself for the sake of being liked. He explains how this common "people-pleasing pressure" can actually damage the very relationships we're trying to protect.You'll discover:The surprising link between childhood experiences and our adult people-pleasing tendencies.How the "big five personality traits" (openness to experience, conscientiousness, extroversion, agreeableness, and emotional stability) influence our negotiation style.Why being overly agreeable can lead to an "emotional hangover" and resentment.The profound impact of unspoken boundaries on relationships, both personal and professional.Kwame's simple "yes-no-yes" framework for setting and maintaining effective boundaries.Why the definition of negotiation is often warped, and how redefining it can empower you in daily life.The concept that "assertiveness is teaching the person how to treat you."How to navigate the "assertiveness penalty" that women (and other groups) often face in professional settings.Why overthinking is your "kryptonite," and how a "shot clock" can help you make better decisions faster.The psychological insight that you'll never truly "get over" stage fright, and why that's a good thing.How Kwame uses AI daily to amplify his humanity, manage emotions, identify blind spots, and create cohesive negotiation strategies.The power of mirror neurons and how our tone and attitude can unconsciously impact others.About Kwame Christian Kwame Christian, Esq., M.A. is the CEO of the American Negotiation Institute (ANI) and a leading voice in the field of negotiation. He hosts the #1 negotiation podcast, Negotiate Anything, and his TED Talk has garnered over 600,000 views. He is also a LinkedIn Top Voice and the author of Finding Confidence in Conflict and How to Have Difficult Conversations About Race. Kwame's mission is to make the world a better place, one difficult conversation at a time.Resources & Links:American Negotiation Institute: americnnegotiationinstitute.comFollow Kwame Christian on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kwamechristian/Listen to the Negotiate Anything podcast: https://negotiateanything.com/Finding Confidence in Conflict by Kwame Christian: https://www.amazon.com/Finding-Confidence-Conflict-Negotiate-Anything/dp/0578413736How to Have Difficult Conversations About Race by Kwame Christian: https://www.amazon.com/Have-Difficult-Conversations-About-Race/dp/1637741308TEDx, Finding Confidence in Conflict: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F6Zg65eK9XUAmplify with Jess is produced by Walk West and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop.

 I recently had the opportunity to step onto the red dot at TEDx Sugar Creek Women, and I was surrounded by so many amazing speakers.For eight years, I've been refining my thoughts on public speaking, and it really just all culminated in this eight minute talk - The Secret to Great Public Speaking (No, It's Not Confidence). Here's a sneak peek, and for the full video, go to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MT2q1YKZQPE. And of course I'd love it if you left a review and comment!

Are you struggling to maintain relationships with people you love, even when you disagree on fundamental issues?This week on Amplify, Jess sits down with her good friend, Brit Barron, a speaker, DEI consultant, and author of Do You Still Talk to Grandma? Brit's work offers a much-needed guide for navigating the increasingly polarized world we live in, helping us find common ground and connection even when perspectives diverge.Brit and Jess discuss our divided society, examining why it feels harder than ever to see eye to eye. They challenge the tendency to categorize people into "good" or "bad" boxes and instead champion the power of nuance, where love and disagreement can coexist. We also explore:The difficulty of separating institutions from individuals in our current polarized climate.Why Brit's work focuses on the people already in our lives, not strangers.The concept of "progressive amnesia" and its impact on our interactions with others.The power of asking "Help me understand" in difficult conversations, especially in the workplace.How to be a better ally without falling into the "hero" trap.The "take the meat and leave the bones" metaphor for consuming information.The crucial "both/and" philosophy: how to hold deep love and deep disappointment in the same relationship.About Brit Barron: Brit Barron is a speaker, DEI consultant, and author of the book Do You Still Talk to Grandma?, which offers a compassionate framework for navigating difficult conversations and maintaining relationships across differences. Her work encourages empathy, nuance, and genuine connection in an increasingly divided world.Resources & Links:Do You Still Talk to Grandma? by Brit Barron: https://www.amazon.com/You-Still-Talk-Grandma-Problematic/dp/0593594347/Find Brit on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barronbrit/Find Brit on the web: https://britbarron.com/Find Brit on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/britbarron/Amplify with Jess is produced by Walk West and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop.

Are you constantly feeling overwhelmed by the endless "shoulds" and unsolicited advice coming your way?This week on Amplify, Jess sits down with her good friend, Dr. Sarah Glova, a keynote speaker, writer, researcher, and unapologetic truth-teller. Her viral talk, "Stop Giving Women Advice," is backed by science, and when Jess saw the title, she knew she had to have her on the show.Sarah thoroughly examines why unsolicited advice isn't just annoying – it can actually reinforce power imbalances, stifle confidence, and make women feel like they’re always playing catch-up. She reveals how her personal experience as a new wife, new mom, and new business owner led her to research the power dynamics of advice-giving. You'll hear about the fascinating studies showing who gives and receives advice, and how the act of giving advice can fuel a sense of power in the giver, often at the expense of the receiver.We also explore:The "vitamin metaphor" for advice: good in moderation, toxic in excess.Why "women don't need more mentorship, they need more sponsorship."How to offer feedback that genuinely helps, not harms.The surprising reason why receiving no feedback is worse than tough feedback.Why the idea that you "need a team" to be a "real" entrepreneur is a myth.How to develop "advice literacy" and "eat the fish, spit out the bones."Turning negative comments and internet trolls into evidence of your reach.The power of asking "Do you want to talk about this, or do you want me to hate your enemies?"How to stay rooted in your values and beliefs, even when the world is throwing "always" and "never" at you.About Dr. Sarah Glova: Dr. Sarah Glova is a keynote speaker, writer, and researcher known for her insights on communication, leadership, and personal development. Her work challenges conventional thinking and empowers individuals to navigate complex professional landscapes with confidence and clarity. Her TEDx talk, "How to Achieve Your Goals with a Single Page," has garnered over 200,000 views, offering a powerful framework for focus and simplification.Resources & Links:Watch Sarah’s TEDx Talk – "How to Achieve Your Goals with a Single Page": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LeXSrEMXvQk&pp=ygULc2FyYWggZ2xvdmE%3DFind Sarah on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sglova/Find Sarah on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsarahglova/Amplify with Jess is produced by Walk West and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop.

For bestselling author Sarah Hoover, motherhood wasn’t blissful. It was brutal. Her postpartum depression hit like a tidal wave, pulling her into the darkest year of her life - and no one had warned her.Today, Jess sits down with Sarah to talk about the abrupt whiplash of parenthood—from the identity crisis, the rage, the silence, and the slow process to recovery. Sarah’s book The Mother Load has been resonating with women across the country,  because it tells the truth so many are scared to say out loud.Jess and Sarah talk about:The myth of “having it all” and how it's wrecking womenThe pressure to feel instant joy in motherhood—and what it’s like when that doesn’t happenSarah’s career, identity, and the raw unraveling that led to her writing this bookWhy speaking the truth, especially when it’s messy, is a revolutionary actHow can we stop pretending, start listening, and actually support each other betterResources & Links:The Mother Load by Sarah Hoover: https://www.amazon.com/Motherload-Episodes-Brink-Motherhood/dp/1668010135 Watch Sarah on the Today Show: https://www.today.com/video/sarah-hoover-talks-the-motherload-postpartum-depression-more-229965381509Amplify with Jess is produced by Walk West and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop.

If you’ve ever looked at confident people and thought, “That could never be me,” this episode might flip your whole narrative.This week, Jess sits down with Selena Rezvani a LinkedIn Top Voice, TEDx speaker, and bestselling author of Quick Confidence, to dismantle the myth that confidence is something you’re born with. Spoiler: it’s not. It’s something you build, one rep at a time.Selena shares the uncomfortable story of being pushed into public speaking before she was ready and how that terrifying blur of a moment unlocked a career she never saw coming. She talks about the hard truth of over-preparing, why winging it is a form of self-sabotage, and how to turn stage fright into fuel.You’ll also hear:How to make friends with your nerves instead of fighting themWhy theatrical body language can skyrocket your stage presenceThe unexpected power of your most embarrassing storiesWhat it really means to be your own best friend before a big momentAbout Selena RezvaniSelena is a speaker, author, and leadership consultant whose work focuses on helping women and marginalized professionals show up with more confidence and self-advocacy. She’s the author of Quick Confidence, Pushback, and a LinkedIn Learning instructor, reaching millions with her content on leadership, confidence, and communication.Resources & Links:Read Selena’s Book – Quick Confidence: https://www.amazon.com/Quick-Confidence-Authentic-Connections-Yourself/dp/1394160941  Watch her TEDx Talk – "Interrupting gender bias through meeting culture": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AX3GuacF6l8 Catch her daily content – Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn @selenarezvaniAmplify with Jess is produced by Walk West and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop.

 In this episode, Jess Ekstrom is joined by Molly Fletcher, a former top sports agent and now one of the world’s most sought-after keynote speakers, to talk about what confidence really looks like behind the scenes. From protecting your energy to saying “yes” to the stage, Molly shares practical advice on how to step into your power and show up with purpose. (even when self-doubt creeps in!)  Molly Fletcher is a trailblazing former sports agent who spent nearly two decades negotiating contracts for the world’s top athletes and coaches, earning her the nickname "the female Jerry Maguire." Today, she’s a keynote speaker, author of The Energy Clock and Dynamic Drive, and host of Game Changers with Molly Fletcher. Known for her powerhouse presence on stage, Molly speaks globally on peak performance, leadership, and building confidence through action. Resources & Links:Read Molly’s Book – Dynamic Drive: Achieve More by Doing LessMolly’s Podcast: Game Changers with Molly Fletcher Watch Molly’s TED TalkWatch the LinkedIn Live Connect with Molly:Website: mollyfletcher.comInstagram: @mollywfletcherLinkedIn: Molly FletcherTwitter/X: @MollyWFletcherYouTube: Molly FletcherAmplify with Jess is produced by Walk West and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop.

In today’s competitive workplace, being a standout means being a professional guru and making a memorable presence.In today's episode, Lorraine will share proven strategies to help you stand out, gain influence, and create a presence that makes you truly unforgettable.Fortune 500 companies, including Amazon, Zoom, Cisco, and McKinsey & Company, have adopted Lorraine's frameworks. With hundreds of thousands of LinkedIn followers and a reputation as a LinkedIn Top Voice in workplace communication, she knows what it takes to build influence and visibility in the modern workplace.Preorder Lorraine's book! -->https://a.co/d/5aXc1El Get Lorraine's freebies! --> https://bit.ly/4hzxyAxAbout Lorraine K. LeeLorraine K. Lee is an award-winning keynote speaker, best-selling author, and founder of RISE Learning Solutions. She specializes in helping professionals enhance their presence, influence, and impact in the modern workplace. With over a decade of experience as a founding editor at tech firms like LinkedIn and Prezi, Lorraine has developed a deep understanding of effective communication and leadership.Her book, Unforgettable Presence: Get Seen, Gain Influence, and Catapult Your Career (Wiley, 2025), encapsulates her expertise in professional development. Lorraine is also a respected instructor at LinkedIn Learning and Stanford Continuing Studies, where she teaches courses on topics such as executive presence and virtual communication. Her insights have been featured in major publications, including CNBC, Forbes, and Fast Company.​Lorraine's journey into public speaking began in 2021, and following a layoff in 2022, she launched her own company, RISE Learning Solutions. Through this platform, she offers training and consulting services to organizations aiming to empower their teams. Her work has positively impacted professionals at companies like Zoom, Amazon, Cisco, and McKinsey & Company. Recognized as a LinkedIn Top Voice in workplace communication, Lorraine inspires individuals to take control of their careers and stand out.​Keep up with Lorraine!Website: lorraineklee.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lorrainekleeX (formerly Twitter): @lorrainekleeInstagram: @lorrainekleeFacebook: facebook.com/lorrainekleespeaking​To see the LinkedIn Live, check it out here! https://www.linkedin.com/events/creatinganunforgettablepresence7303073852949958657/theater/

Fear has a sneaky way of keeping us stuck. It takes many shapes and forms, like going after a new opportunity, negotiating a raise, or speaking up for ourselves. In this episode of Amplify with Jess Ekstrom, Jess sits down with author, speaker, and former Google exec Jenny Wood to talk about how to move through fear and unlock more success, joy, and courage in your career.Jenny shares stories from her 18 years at Google and her new book Wild Courage, including how chasing a stranger off the New York City subway helped her rethink what it means to take bold action. Jess and Jenny also discuss negotiation tips, communication tricks, and the hidden power in words we’ve been taught to shy away from—like "obsessed" and "manipulative."So, have you ever held yourself back with a “what if"? Or watered down your ask before you even sent it?---What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How to reframe fear and take bold action anywayWhy women often pitch and then immediately pull back (and how to stop!)How to negotiate without negotiating against yourselfThe ping-pong strategy for pricing and salary conversationsCommunication swaps that instantly increase your confidence and clarityThe importance of saying no to the “Baltics” so you can go after the “Boardwalks”Resources & Links:Follow Jenny Wood: https://www.jennywood.com/Preorder Wild Courage: https://itsjennywood.com/bookLearn more about Mic Drop Club: https://micdropworkshop.com/club/Watch the full LinkedIn Live: https://www.linkedin.com/events/linkedinlivewithjennywood7285395759791763456/comments/Rate & Review: Enjoying Amplify with Jess? Rate us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, and leave a review to help more people discover the show!Follow Jess on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jess-ekstrom-speaker-author/ - to stay up to date with her LinkedIn Live series, where these episodes originate.Amplify with Jess is produced by Walk West and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop.

Public speaking can feel overwhelming, but small changes can make a huge impact. In this episode of Amplify with Jess Ekstrom, Jess sits down with keynote speaker and generational workforce expert Lindsay Boccardo to break down the subtle shifts that can take your speaking from good to great.Lindsay shares practical insights on how to engage your audience, bring the right level of energy, and avoid sounding like a phony game show host. They discuss how to turn up the dial on your presence in an authentic way, why confidence comes from preparation, and how even minor tweaks in gestures and posture can make a difference.If you’ve ever struggled with how to sound engaging without feeling like you’re putting on a performance, this episode is for you!What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The difference between a “spotlight speaker” and a “lighthouse speaker”How to boost your presence without overdoing itWhy watching yourself on video can improve your speaking skillsThe surprising impact of hydration on your stage presenceHow to handle disengaged audience members without losing confidenceWhether you're stepping onto a keynote stage or leading a team meeting, these tips will help you show up with confidence, clarity, and authenticity.Resources & Links:Follow Lindsay Boccardo: https://www.lindsayboccardo.com/Learn more about Mic Drop Club: https://micdropworkshop.com/club/Watch the full LinkedIn Live: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/jess-ekstrom-speaker-author_with-ai-front-and-center-soft-skills-are-activity-7289699709328240641-xaH9Rate & Review: Enjoying Amplify with Jess? Rate us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, and leave a review to help more people discover the show!Follow Jess on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jess-ekstrom-speaker-author/ - to stay up to date with her LinkedIn Live series, where these episodes originate.Amplify with Jess is produced by Walk West and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop.

Kelsey O'Connor was a D1 student-athlete at North Carolina State University until she suffered a traumatic brain injury that abruptly ended her athletic career. Her journey of recovery and overcoming immense was the basis of her commencement address that went viral on TikTok and Facebook with over 40M (million) views. In our season 3 finale, Kelsey tells her story and how it led her to become a sought-after public speaker---Kelsey O'Connor's Speech: https://www.kelseyoconnor.net/videos/v/beyondperformanceLife Beyond Labels Podcast: https://sportsepreneur.com/welcome-life-beyond-labels-podcast/---Rate Amplify on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and leave a review for Jess Ekstrom.Amplify with Jess is produced by Earfluence, and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop

I recently read a study on dopamine that completely changed how I look at my work and life.It initially shocked me, but then I realized why it makes sense.----Rate Amplify on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and leave a review for Jess Ekstrom.Amplify with Jess is produced by Earfluence and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop.

As a speaker, you always want to reach the point of high-flying careers that take you worldwide, but that also means taking you away from your family. This raises the question, "Can speakers really have it all?"Can we prioritize our careers, marriages, partnerships, and kids at the same time?Today, Dr. John Delony gives us his tips.---Dr. John Delony is a mental health expert who offers guidance on relationships, anxiety, and wellness.Dr. John Delony Show: https://www.youtube.com/@TheDrJohnDelonyShowFollow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johndelony/---Rate Amplify on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and leave a review for Jess Ekstrom.Amplify with Jess is produced by Earfluence, and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop

In our culture, "Making it" usually means being an Oprah or Sara Blakely, appearing on a reality TV show, or discovering a scientific formula that lets you speak to your dog.Most of us (including me!) won't make it big time. But I still have something to offer that people find value in. And so do you.So, how do we measure our progress to maximize our potential and the value we give others?----Rate Amplify on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and leave a review for Jess Ekstrom.Amplify with Jess is produced by Earfluence and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop.

Therese Gopaul-Robinson knew it was time for a raise. She asked for a meeting, practiced her speech, and had her PowerPoint presentation ready to go. It was time to take the next step in her career.But she didn't get her raise in that meeting - she was let go instead.Today, Therese shares her journey to becoming a world-class keynote speaker, which was initially filled with rejection and fear of inadequacy but ultimately led to her finding her first gigs.---Therese Gopaul-Robinson is a Keynote Speaker and Healthcare Consultant who's obsessed with helping women in leadership.---Rate Amplify on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and leave a review for Jess Ekstrom.Amplify with Jess is produced by Earfluence, and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop

Imagine you had an assistant that could fit in your pocket and tell you any information you desired. "How many stars are there in the galaxy? How do I make a sourdough starter? What does it mean when something uploads “to the cloud"?Well you do have that assistant - your phone.Having all that knowledge at our fingertips is convenient, but does this convenience stop us from acting like students, being beginners, and trusting ourselves?Perhaps access to all this information is a primary reason for killing our motivation.And that's what I'm digging into today.----Rate Amplify on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and leave a review for Jess Ekstrom.Amplify with Jess is produced by Earfluence and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop.

Lindsey Epperly has grown her travel business from a one-woman operation to a team of 80 (!!). It has been on the Inc 5000 list of fastest-growing companies, and Lindsey seemingly has it all.And yet, even with her success, Lindsey still encounters imposter syndrome - especially when (despite the accolades) she feels like her business is failing. Through her experiences, she realized the common pitfall of equating self-worth with success, a challenge familiar to many high achievers in today's hustle culture. However, Lindsey's perspective shifted as she began to see imposter syndrome as a sign of stepping out of her comfort zone, using it as a motivational tool to turn obstacles into opportunities.And here's what she learned in the process.---Lindsey Epperly is the CEO of JetSet World Travel and host of Who Made You the Boss? Podcast.---Rate Amplify on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and leave a review for Jess Ekstrom.Amplify with Jess is produced by Earfluence, and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop

Did you know that most folks are more scared of public speaking than they are of sharks? It’s crazy, but it also makes sense! Whether it’s Jaws or facing a live audience, your body reacts to nerves similarly—it’s just a biological thing.In this episode, I'm sharing tips on how to ease your nerves before a speaking engagement, whether on stage as a keynote address, in a meeting, or at a wedding.I’ll walk you through quick tricks, like using peppermint and box breathing to calm yourself in the moment, and why making eye contact is a game changer.So the next time you step on stage, you'll have the confidence to own it.Rate Amplify on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and leave a review for Jess Ekstrom.Amplify with Jess is produced by Earfluence, and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop.

You know that passive income everyone raves about, where you wake up to find a couple thousand extra dollars in your bank account?Surprise! It turns out it's not as easy as it seems!Today’s guest, Lashonda Brown, a tech educator and founder of Bootstrap Biz Advice, explains that passive income takes years of hard work and system-building.So, what should you do, and how can YouTube help?---Rate Amplify on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and leave a review for Jess Ekstrom.Amplify with Jess is produced by Earfluence, and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop

Over a bowl of popcorn shrimp a few months after our wedding, my husband and I decided to put our apartment up for rent and take off in an RV and travel the country. We did something we now call “try it on.”We had questions about finances, mail, and skincare routines, but we went for it anyway.And here's what happened.----Rate Amplify on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and leave a review for Jess Ekstrom.Amplify with Jess is produced by Earfluence and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop.

What's your morning routine? You’ve likely come across countless reels and TikToks suggesting that you meditate each morning, cultivate gratitude, practice mindfulness, work out, time-block your day, drink 100 ounces of water, fast, prioritize self-care, and read a few pages from your book.And then reality sets in, and you've got to feed the baby, pack lunches, or take care of that client fire. So, what should you do to get your mind and body right to start your day?Are you ready to revamp your morning? Take Tiffany’s 5-day morning challenge! ----Tiffany Lanier is a Keynote Speaker, Facilitator on Change and Wellbeing, 2X TEDx Speaker, and Creator of The Morning Shift.She's also the author of the children’s book “I Can’t Wait to Vote,” which introduces young readers to the voting process.---Rate Amplify on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and leave a review for Jess Ekstrom.Amplify with Jess is produced by Earfluence, and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop

When we look at successful businesspeople, we assume they had a clear business plan, were surrounded by helpful resources, and confidently started marching toward their dreams. The reality is that most businesses probably started like my first business.I had no idea what gross or net meant.When asked, "How is your business structured?",  I would respond, "Strongly." A five-year plan - heck, even a five-month plan - was laughableI had no idea what I was doing, but I just pressed start.  And I learned that it's ok to learn by failing.---- Rate Amplify on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and leave a review for Jess Ekstrom.Amplify with Jess is produced by Earfluence and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop.

Ever wonder about the differences between workshops and keynotes? Katie Quesada, keynote speaker, workshop facilitator, and storytelling consultant, believes workshops are not about teaching but guiding participants to discover their insights.In today's episode, Katie shares how to design and deliver workshops that help individuals and teams become “story collectors,” using their personal and brand narratives to forge deeper connections.Discover her core philosophy of "stories over stuff" in structuring a workshop, which may inspire you to create your own.----Katie Quesada is a Storytelling Consultant, Speaker, and Coach.---Rate Amplify on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and leave a review for Jess Ekstrom.Amplify with Jess is produced by Earfluence, and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop

We usually see things as black and white, especially when trying something new.So, how can we shift that mindset? There's just one word you can add to remind yourself: it's not that we're not there; it's that we're not there yet.Rate Amplify on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and leave a review for Jess Ekstrom.Amplify with Jess is produced by Earfluence and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop.

How can we as speakers expand our networks to meet some amazing people and, probably more importantly, secure speaking engagements?  We need to be strategic about our networking efforts. But what exactly does that mean, and what are the steps we should be taking to get our names out there more.Today, Jess is joined by Chelsea C Williams, and she has some tips!In This Episode, You’ll Learn:How can I continuously improve visibility and generate referrals for business growth?How can I balance personal stories and business topics in public speaking?Why is it crucial to incorporate DEI into workplace conversations and leadership?----Chelsea C Williams is an entrepreneur, workplace educator, and professional speaker. Her company Reimagine Talent delivers HR and career development solutions.---Rate Amplify on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and leave a review for Jess Ekstrom.Amplify with Jess is produced by Earfluence, and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop

In today’s special episode, I share a keynote showcase of one of my talks from Inman Connect, one of the most extensive speaking engagements in the real estate industry. You've listened to my food for thought to start your week. Now, tune in to hear some of the principles I discussed in the podcast during my signature keynote! Sidenote: We highly recommend watching Jess's keynote on YouTube to see her practices in action!----Rate Amplify on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and leave a review for Jess Ekstrom.Amplify with Jess is produced by Earfluence, and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop.

Getting up on stage and feeling confident about yourself, it's one of the biggest challenges we face on stage. Because we're not perfect. We're not robots. We'll flub from time to time.So what do we do about that?Today, Jess and Coach Kiah Twisselman talk about embracing imperfections and projecting confidence on stage.In This Episode, You’ll Learn:The Power of Vulnerability: Coach Kiah shares her unique approach to speaking, which combines humor and deep emotional connection. Learn how her personal journey of healing has empowered her to connect with audiences on a profound level, making them feel seen and understood.From Ranch Life to the Spotlight: Discover how Kiah transitioned from a successful weight loss journey to a vibrant speaking career, including her experiences on national platforms like Good Morning America and The Kelly Clarkson Show. She reflects on the pivotal moment that led her to fully embrace her role as a keynote speaker.Navigating Confidence Onstage: Jess and Kiah discuss the fears and insecurities that often arise before stepping onto the stage. Kiah reveals her strategies for overcoming nerves and staying authentic, including a humorous anecdote about dealing with sweat on national television.The Myth of Masculine Confidence: The conversation explores how traditional notions of confidence can be restrictive, especially for women. Kiah offers insight into finding and embracing a style that aligns with one's true self rather than conforming to external expectations.Finding Your Personal Style: Kiah talks about her journey to discovering a style that reflects her personality and makes her feel confident. She emphasizes the importance of wearing what makes you feel good and how it can enhance your presence on stage.The Impact of Authenticity: Learn why Kiah believes that showing up as your true self—complete with your quirks and imperfections—is more powerful than trying to fit into a predefined mold. She shares how being authentic not only benefits you but also resonates deeply with your audience.Quotes to Remember:“I like to tell people that I want to bring you on an emotional journey with me. We are going to laugh. I'm like one part motivational comedian. And we're also going to cry. Like we're going to talk about the hard things.” – Coach Kiah“It is the things that we generally feel most shame about that are the most healing for other people to hear.” – Coach Kiah“Stop waiting to lose the weight to go and find your style. Stop waiting to lose weight to finally wear the swimsuit and get in the pool with your kids.” – Coach Kiah----Coach Kiah Twisselman is a former cattle rancher turned motivational speaker and life coach.----(00:05:16) "Embrace vulnerability to unleash your power." (00:09:04) "Facing fears in public speaking leads to empowerment." (00:12:06) "Confidence in speaking comes from embracing your style." (00:19:01) "Choose self-acceptance over societal beauty standards." (00:21:24) "Your speaker identity shapes thought leadership impact."---Rate Amplify on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and leave a review for Jess Ekstrom.Amplify with Jess is produced by Earfluence, and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop

Perfectionists are good at a lot of things, but they are not good at being beginners.  Does that sound like you?  Yeah me too, until I was a beginner at two things that challenged me and changed my mindset - being a mom and stand-up comedy.Here's what it taught me. ----Rate Amplify on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and leave a review for Jess Ekstrom.Amplify with Jess is produced by Earfluence, and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop.

Before becoming a Mic Drop Academy alum, Cassandra was already well-versed in public speaking as a communication expert and professor at Texas A&M University, but now she had the tools to make her goal of becoming a keynote speaker to fruition.She talks with Jess about her journey after Mic Drop, sharing tips for aspiring speakers on what to know, how to handle rejection, and why setting boundaries is key—even if that means saying no sometimes, and that's okay!----Dr. Cassandra LeClair is a speaker and leading expert in research-based communication strategies to build corporate resilience, and the author of Being Whole: Healing from Trauma and Reclaiming My Voice----(00:01:03) Transforming Public Speaking into Engaging Storytelling(00:07:12) Navigating Rejection and Self-Worth in Monetization(00:08:23) Embracing Rejection: Path to Speaker Success(00:11:21) Overcoming Self-Doubt Through Positive Self-Image(00:18:06) Effective Communication Through Setting Boundaries---Rate Amplify on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and leave a review for Jess Ekstrom.Amplify with Jess is produced by Earfluence, and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop

We've all faced it before: the dreaded FOMO.Sometimes, it feels like a double-edged sword. You don't want to miss any chances, but saying yes for the sake of saying yes can lead to quick burnout.In this episode, Jess shares a mantra that helped silence her FOMO, and hopefully, it will do the same for you.----Rate Amplify on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and leave a review for Jess Ekstrom.Amplify with Jess is produced by Earfluence, and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop.

Antonio Neves saw a problem: he couldn't find the right content for balancing personal growth and family relationships, especially as a man in today's society.  So he decided to do something about it by founding the Man Morning newsletter, a platform dedicated to inspiring men to start their day with purpose and intention. Learn tips on self-improvement, on-stage speaking, stepping out of your comfort zone, and prioritizing emotional well-being to lead a more fulfilling and enriched existence. ---(00:00:32) Embracing Masculine Growth and Connection Newsletter(00:03:08) Celebrating Accomplishments for Personal Growth(00:17:14) Celebrating Value and Empowerment in Males(00:23:05) Man Morning Meetings for Emotional Release(00:23:06) Emotional Support for Men: Man Morning Gatherings(00:28:07) The Power of Authenticity in Presentations---Rate Amplify on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and leave a review for Jess Ekstrom.Amplify with Jess is produced by Earfluence, and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop

 Have you ever asked yourself, "Am I where I should be at this point in my life?" or "Am I "on time? "We all rave about the 30 under 30 lists, but did we ever stop to think that maybe it was easier for them because they didn't have anything to risk? And maybe we're on the right track to success regardless of the time.----Rate Amplify on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and leave a review for Jess Ekstrom.Amplify with Jess is produced by Earfluence, and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop.

Amy Porterfield really wanted freedom, flexibility, and autonomy in her career.She entered the digital course industry, which allowed her to work from home while still making money. Starting small, her first course made just $267, but she pulled in over $100 million in revenue through tweaks and relaunches.How did she do it?  How can you leverage digital courses to balance work and family life and generate income while being present for your family? Let's find out!COURSE CONFIDENT: A Live Two-Week Bootcamp Experience(00:03:14) Flexible Online Courses: Redefining Women's Empowerment(00:04:13) "Freedom is whatever it is that you want in terms of how to design your life. That is your freedom."(00:07:56) Power of Inspiring Examples for Motivation(00:15:52) "Less is more here. Get someone from point a to point b as fast as humanly possible. Take all the fluff out."(00:22:41) You just need the 10% edge(00:26:53) "They started and you didn't. That's the only difference, my friend. So just get started."---Rate Amplify on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and leave a review for Jess Ekstrom.Amplify with Jess is produced by Earfluence, and brought to you by Mic Drop Workshop