A podcast for and featuring busy women entrepreneurs
Hosted by the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO)
Fun, Inspiration, Education….Let’s GO!
About the Podcast
The NAWBO on the Go podcast delivers quick doses of fun, inspiration and education for today’s busy women entrepreneurs who want to grow their businesses and care for themselves. This podcast is just one of the many ways that NAWBO fulfills our mission to propel women business owners into greater economic, social and political spheres of power worldwide.
About Your Host
The podcast is hosted by the staff and leadership of NAWBO National and features NAWBO members from across the U.S. There’s nothing like the understanding, encouragement, ideas and celebration a community of women business owners can offer you on your entrepreneurial journey—whether you are just starting out or are years or decades into it. We are NAWBO, and we are your community.
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Be Part of the Fun, Inspiration & Education
The requirements for applying to appear on the NAWBO on the Go podcast are that you must be an active NAWBO Premier member; your topic must be relevant and designed to deliver value and insights to women business owners’ lives and/or businesses; and it must not be self-promotional (though we will promote you as a guest in our various communications). You also must be willing to be featured on your own or with a NAWBO host in an interview-style format.
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EPISODES
Episode 29: The Power of Firsts
Marlene Johnson always knew she had a book in her, but it took a pandemic and a friend’s nudge to finally bring her story to life. And what a story it is!
From launching her own advertising and PR firm to co-founding NAWBO Minnesota—the first chapter outside of the original NAWBO organization in Washington, DC—Marlene has been a powerful force for change.
She shattered glass ceilings as Minnesota’s first woman lieutenant governor and later took on a leadership role in the nonprofit world. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation with a true trailblazer!
Discover Marlene’s memoir Rise to the Challenge: A Memoir of Politics, Leadership and Love here.
Episode 28: Where AI Meets Om
When she’s running so fast as a woman entrepreneur, a sound bath is the perfect way for Alexandra Martinez to find peace and answers.
And this Northern California-based HR consulting company owner indeed runs fast—often assuring employers that artificial intelligence (AI) has been here for some time and is here to stay, and that they can use it to their benefit.
This episode is all about maximizing your time with AI so you can focus more strategically.
Episode 27: Sleep Like A Boss
Sleep isn’t just rest—it’s the foundation of health, energy and success.
Kelly Wernersbach, owner of Adjust Your Sleep Mattress Boutique in New Jersey, knows this firsthand. She’s found that painting ceramics clears her mind—one of her go-to secrets for better sleep.
But with at least 1 in 4 women struggling with sleep, how do we fix it?
In this episode, Kelly breaks down everything from optimizing your brain for rest to mastering sleep hygiene and choosing the perfect sleep system. Get ready to sleep better, feel better and perform at your best!
Episode 26: Start Your Pitch with "Qué PASA?"
Next time someone asks you “Qué Pasa?”—don’t just freeze up or ramble on about your product or service. Wow them with a pitch that builds and leads them to the natural conclusion!
In this episode, Rajiv Nathan (aka RajNATION), founder of Startup Hypeman and podcast host, reveals the ultimate pitch framework. Learn his PASA method—Problem, Approach, Solution, Action—and how to craft a pitch that hits all the right notes in 60 seconds or less!
Ready to stop pitching and start telling stories people actually want to hear? Tune in now!
Learn more about Startup Hypeman , and check out Startup Hypeman: The GOAT to Market podcast.
Episode 25: From Standing Solo to Standing Strong
When Lisa Coppola, founder of The Coppola Firm in Buffalo, NY, and the NAWBO National Board’s immediate past chair, began her legal career, she didn’t see many female peers and steered clear of women’s professional groups.
But she soon realized that seeking support isn’t a weakness—it’s a superpower.
Tune in as Lisa shares how embracing community transformed her leadership, how she’s gained as much from NAWBO as she’s given and why the best leaders know when to step back and listen.
Episode 24: Dancing Through Life's Twists
Diana Dibble, a Maryland-based classically trained ballerina turned award-winning serial entrepreneur, knows all about mastering life’s twists and turns—on stage and off. But nothing could have prepared her for being diagnosed with two brain tumors.
In this inspiring episode, Diana shares her story of resilience, humor and determination.
Just one year after her brain surgery, she took on her next big challenge: launching a new business.
Episode 23: A Female Foundation
What happens when a man dedicates his life to amplifying and elevating the voices of women?
Meet Brad Walsh—our podcast’s perfect first male and international guest. A celebrated photographer, international speaker, #1 international bestselling author and founder of the Empowerography podcast, Brad has built a platform that uplifts and inspires.
In this episode, he shares how five remarkable women—his grandmother, mother, wife and two daughters—shaped his passion for storytelling and empowerment, and how his work helps women see themselves in a new, radiant light.
Listen to Brad’s Empowerography podcast here.
Episode 22: The Lightbulb Moment
Sandy Clitter, NAWBO National Board member and founder of Tech Tamer in Media, PA, always thought voting was the key to political involvement—until a game-changing insight shifted her perspective. When she heard, “Your elected officials don’t know what you need unless you speak up because they’re not running your business,” the lightbulb went on. Now, Sandy is on a mission to amplify the voices of women business owners. Tune in to hear how one moment of clarity transformed her advocacy and how it can inspire yours!
Episode 21: Routine Reset: Finding Calm in the Chaos
Laura Licursi of Elite Virtual Assistants in Mayfield Heights, OH, used to start every day “drinking from a firehose”—immediately checking work emails, rushing her three kids to school and feeling frazzled. That is, until she realized how important a self-care routine is.
Now, she enjoys coffee, journaling, meditation and working out, which leaves her feeling calm and ready to focus on her business success!
Episode 20: Empowerment + Social Responsibility = Success
Neetu Jhaj rang in her 40th birthday this year by debuting a book that empowers children to overcome limitations with confidence and self-esteem.
Neetu, who is based in Bakersfield, CA, and is a NAWBO $1 Million+ Circle member, has built a successful children’s clothing line business around both empowerment and social responsibility.
She has some exciting news and shares it here first!
Episode 19: Authenticity: The Pathway to Profitability
A survey says that 90% of consumers prioritize authenticity when choosing the brands they support.
In this latest episode, Denise Dahl, founder of Epiphany Planning and Development in Toledo, OH, dives into the science behind authenticity in business. It can foster trust, enhance communication, boost productivity and drive customer loyalty—putting you on the pathway to greater profitability.
Episode 18: Staying in the Center Lane
Elle Patout, NAWBO HQ’s Director of Advocacy and Public Relations, is back. This time, she’s talking book clubs (she’s in two!) and boots-on-the-ground bi-partisanship.
How can we get decision-makers from both sides of the aisle on board with legislation, policy priorities and initiatives that move our local and national economies forward? Listen to this latest episode for inspiration!
This episode is part of the ongoing NAWBO Academy For Public Service™ series.
Episode 17: Flipping the Script on Selling
Diane Helbig, an international business and leadership development advisor, author and trainer out of Lakewood, OH, played piano competitively until she was in 8th grade, but never liked the competition part.
But she loves selling. That’s because she doesn’t see it as competition at all. It's about learning, not telling, convincing or persuading.
Join us for an exciting conversation where we flip the script with Diane and go on a discovery mission!
Episode 16: Oh BOI...Is Reporting Mandatory or Voluntary?
Lisa Poineau, a Chicago, IL-based associate director of sales training at Wolters Kluwer, shakes off the whiplash of all the starts and stops of Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) over the past few weeks to get us all caught up!
This federal reporting requirement that impacts most small business owners is once again voluntary, as of January 2nd, pending appeal.
NAWBO is collaborating with Wolters Kluwer BizFilings to offer a safe and easy BOI reporting solution for those who choose to voluntarily file now. Access it and enter NAWBO5 for 5% off.
Episode 15: Journey to the Center of Attention (Precious' Version)
Growing up, Precious Williams, #KillerPitchMaster and founder of Perfect Pitch Group in Brooklyn, NY, always wanted to be Blanche or Rose from her favorite show The Golden Girls. But she was Dorothy and today, wouldn’t have it any other way.
Get ready to journey to your center of attention by applying for awards. In this episode, this WBO of the Year, Top 3 finalist, and 7x national award winner (this year alone!) will share how!
Episode 14: NAWBO Advocacy and the Nitty Gritty
NAWBO’s Director of Advocacy and Public Relations Elle Patout’s accent is a mix of her Louisiana upbringing, college years in Georgia and early career in Alabama. When she uses it for NAWBO and the nation’s women business owners, the message is always loud and clear.
This episode is part of the ongoing NAWBO Academy For Public Service™ series.
Episode 13: Grants: The Solution to Funding without Equity?
When she’s not binging the TV reality series Alone, Christine E.B. Howard of E.B Howard Consulting in Buffalo, NY, is helping start-ups and innovators to find and apply for funding that doesn’t require equity and then with evaluation.
In this episode, she breaks down grant funding, from what to know before applying to grants designated for women-owned businesses.
Episode 12: The Truth About AI: Does It Help or Hinder?
Patty Dominguez, founder of More Leverage Solutions in Chicago, IL, heard a quote that perfectly sums up how she feels about artificial intelligence, or AI: “AI will not replace humans. Humans who can use AI will replace humans who can’t.”
The bottom line, she says, is women business owners have to look at it as a tool they can leverage to save time, energy and money and ultimately grow!
Tune in to this episode as we dive in to the wonderful world of AI!
Episode 11: The Hot Ticket Is the Teal Ticket
Dr. Janis Shinkawa, NAWBO’s National Board Chair, is back!
This time, she’s talking binge-worthy reality TV (is love really blind?) and of course, all things WBC—NAWBO’s 50th anniversary conference happening in Washington, DC in June 2025.
“Once you come and meet the members and experience what a national conference is like, you don’t ever turn back,” she promises.
Episode 10: Why Are Women Business Owners Optimistic?
As the daughter and sister-in-law of women business owners, Jill Calabrese Bain with Bank of America has an entrepreneurial spirit baked into her DNA.
She shares why she’s such a huge supporter of women business owners—because regardless of the challenge, women rise to the occasion and figure out what’s next.
Tune in to hear what Bank of America’s latest spotlight says about their optimism.
Episode 9: Are Rules Really Made to Be Broken?
Want to avoid doing something illegal or getting slapped with fines?
In part 3 of our conversation, NAWBO’s Director of Advocacy and Public Relations Elle Patout talks about regulations—requirements issued by federal agencies to implement laws passed by Congress—and why following is a good thing.
This episode is part of the ongoing NAWBO Academy For Public Service™ series.
Episode 8: Leadership Lessons From Mom
Janet Kendall White of Berkshire Group, Inc. in Cuyahoga Falls, OH, was raised by a single mom on a farm/apple orchard in the Berkshires (thus her company’s name!) in Western MA.
Mom modeled how to be a great leader—through her vision, problem-solving, persistence, adaptability, compassion and community.
In this episode, Janet talks emotional intelligence and why women business owners need it.
Episode 7: Voting, It's a Top Civic Duty
Megan Patton has been pouring over her sample ballot.
This NAWBO National Advocacy Chair from Cleveland, OH, believes that unless she exercises her right to vote, she doesn’t have the right to comment, complain or be part of the process.
In this episode, she talks about being an informed voter and NAWBO’s bi-partisanship.
Episode 6: Busting Rhymes and Making Memories
Janna Willoughby-Lohr busts rhymes like nobody’s business.
This artist, entrepreneur, podcaster and yes, rapper from Buffalo, New York, is founder of a company specializing in handcrafted paper art.
In this episode, she shares how a college dream of handwritten notes can prove naysayers wrong and connect us all with amazing memories.
Episode 5: 2 Shots of Espresso and a Cup of Milk
NAWBO’s Director of Advocacy and Public Relations Elle Patout’s day is always a mad dash. Advocacy can feel just as hectic and intimidating.
In part 2 of our conversation with Elle, she breaks down the government's branches piece by piece so they’re as digestible as her favorite latte.
This episode is part of the ongoing NAWBO Academy For Public Service™ series.
Episode 4: Can You Go Big and Not Burnout?
Rachel Boehm has four words for you: Stop putting yourself last.
This coach and consultant from Falls Church, Virgina, helps high-achievers avoid burnout…you know when work is edging out everything else in life, from family/friend/dating time to hobbies and self-care.
In this episode, we talk about how finding your “happy place” starts now.
Episode 3: You Have the Right to Your...Intellectual Property
Michele Katz of Advítam IP in Chicago, IL, caught the travel bug early on, leading to a passion for all things IP (intellectual property).
Simply put: these are any creations of the mind, from names to inventions.
In this episode, she explores the Big 3—trademarks, copyrights and patents—plus talks NAWBO connections and leadership.
Episode 2: Stepping Back in Time Into High School Civics
Featuring Elle Patout of NAWBO National
If NAWBO’s Arlington, VA-based Director of Advocacy and Public Relations Elle Patout was still running marathons, she’d make it to DC where she advocates in record time; she’s that close.
When you’re talking about something you’re passionate about, you’re advocating for it. Tune in to this episode to learn more about advocacy!
This episode is part of the ongoing NAWBO Academy For Public Service™ series.
Episode 1: Can Wellness Fuel Peak Personal and Business Performance
Say “Aloha” to veterinary industry trailblazer and NAWBO National Board Chair Dr. Janis Shinkawa from Ventura, CA.
In this episode, she talks about NAWBO’s 50-year history which started with women who came together to talk about entrepreneurship, starting her days with a cold plunge, and why she’s energized to integrate more wellness into her industry and the organizations she loves.
This audio series educates women on making positive impacts and building skills that benefit their communities and their businesses.
Each week, starting in August, a new episode will focus on a specific topic presented by an expert woman business owner.
1. Executive Presence
with Audra Christie
Mindset Change Coaching
Audra is an expert on elevating executive presence and increasing leadership visibility.
2. Stress and Burnout
with Haley Prophet of Haley Prophet Consulting
Haley is an experienced workplace well-being strategist and facilitator
3. Negotiating Tips
with Katie Nelson of Sales UpRising
Katie, “The Sales Catalyst,” is an expert sales coach and speaker.
4. Taking the First Step in Civic Leadership
with Sarah White, a restaurant owner and managing partner in Fairfax, Virginia
Sarah ran as an Independent candidate for Delegate in Virginia’s 13th District.
5. Non-Profit Board Management
with Robin Sterneck of Sterneck Captial Management
Robin has 30+ years of experience and has served on a diverse array of boards
6. Finding the Right Mentor
with Tiffany Dufu of The Cru
Tiffany is an expert on personal and professional development solutions for companies.
7. Motivational Inspiration
with Jessica Bruny of JESSBEU
Jessica is an award-winning community organizer and mindfulness life coach.
8. Presentation Tipswith Carolyn Buck Luce of Imaginal Labs
Carolyn is a gifted writer, organizational strategist and leadership coach.
9. Lobbying Your Elected Official
with Jaclyn Tacoronte of JMT Media
Jaclyn is a media expert who successfully advocated for Native American minorities.