Serious Lady Business

From AI Overwhelm to Competitive Advantage with Lydia Benham

In this episode, Leslie Youngblood interviews Lydia Benham about harnessing AI for business growth, overcoming overwhelm, and the importance of community and relationships in the tech era. They explore practical steps for women leaders and entrepreneurs to leverage technology ethically and effectively. About Out Guest Lydia Benham, Co-Founder and CEO of Tieraxis Follow Tieraxis on LinkedIn and Instagram Tieraxis website Connect with Lydia on LinkedIn Key Takeaways AI is here to stay and is a tool, not a threat. Start small with AI to avoid overwhelm. Focus on automating tasks, not replacing people. Build relationships and community for success. Leverage AI to increase productivity and output. Embrace a fast-paced, innovative mindset. Prioritize ethical and safe AI use. Women can lead in tech by being brave and curious. Keywords AI, women in tech, business growth, technology strategy, community, entrepreneurship, AI tools, digital transformation, Midwest tech, leadership

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The Leadership Gap No One Talks About with Logan Yonavjak

In this episode, Logan Yonavjak shares insights on leadership gaps, the impact of biases, and how AI can democratize access to leadership development. Discover practical frameworks and strategies to enhance your leadership capacity and navigate the future of work. About Our Guest Logan Yonavjak, Co-Founder & CEO of the Readiness Engine Connect with Logan on LinkedIn Readiness Engine Website Key Topics Leadership gaps and patterns The role of biases in decision-making AI as a tool for democratizing leadership The importance of capacity versus skills Six dimensions of leadership development The impact of people problems on business success Strategies for growth-minded leadership The future of AI in coaching and development Keywords Leadership, AI, Development, Bias, Democratization, Business, Growth, Capacity, Coaching, female business owner, entrepreneurship

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Human First: Why Relationships (Not Algorithms) Still Win in Business with Monique Sar

What if the biggest advantage in business today isn't AI, automation, or a bigger audience—but being more human? In this episode of Serious Lady Business, Leslie Youngblood sits down with talent strategist and marketing expert Monique Sar to explore why meaningful relationships remain the ultimate competitive advantage in an increasingly digital world. From losing a promotion early in her career to discovering that networking, visibility, and authentic connection matter just as much as hard work, Monique shares the lessons that transformed her career—and how they're helping creators, founders, and professionals build businesses rooted in trust. Together, Leslie and Monique unpack everything from negotiating your worth and pricing your expertise to using AI without losing your authenticity. If you've ever struggled to put yourself out there, advocate for yourself, or wondered how to stand out in a world filled with algorithms, this conversation is packed with practical advice you can put into action immediately. About Our Guest Monique Sar, Marketing Agency Founder Connect with Monique on LinkedIn Connect with Monique on Instagram https://moniquesar.com/ 5 Key Takeaways 1. Hard work alone isn't enough. Relationships create opportunities that talent alone often can't. Building genuine connections—and showing up consistently—can change the trajectory of your career. 2. Stop waiting for permission. Many women wait until they feel "ready" before becoming more visible or asking for what they're worth. Confidence comes from action, not the other way around. 3. Price based on value—not fear. Undervaluing yourself doesn't make you more competitive. It often signals lower value. Learn to communicate the full scope of what you bring to the table and negotiate with confidence. 4. AI should enhance your relationships—not replace them. Use AI to save time, generate ideas, and open doors—but remember that trust, rapport, and real human conversations are still what close deals and build lasting partnerships. 5. Authenticity doesn't mean sharing everything. You don't need to put your entire life online to be authentic. Choose the values and stories you want to be known for, and consistently show up in that lane.

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Engineering Confidence: Leadership from the Factory Floor with Nashay Naeve

Join Leslie Youngblood and Nashay Naeve as they discuss engineering confidence, leadership lessons from the factory floor, navigating international business in China, and empowering women in manufacturing and engineering. About Our Guest Nashay Naeve - President | Industrial & Engineered Products | P&L Leadership | Business Growth & Transformation | Chicago Booth MBA | Tsinghua MSE Connect with Nashay on LinkedIn Nashay's website Key Topics Engineering and manufacturing leadership Navigating gender dynamics in male-dominated industries Learning Chinese and doing business in China The importance of authenticity and confidence Building mentorship and community for women in industry Keywords Leadership, Women in Industry, Manufacturing, Engineering, China Business, Diversity, Mentorship, Authenticity, Global Business, Women Leaders

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The Business of Surprise with Lillian Rafson

What happens when you quit your job, give up your apartment, and follow a spark of inspiration halfway around the world? In this episode of Serious Lady Business, Leslie Youngblood sits down with Lillian Rafson, Founder and CEO of Pack Up + Go, the surprise travel company she launched at just 23 years old after a chance conversation in a hostel in Latvia. What started as a lightbulb moment became a mission-driven business that has helped thousands of travelers discover overlooked destinations while supporting local communities and small businesses across the United States. Lillian shares the realities of building a company without outside funding, navigating rapid growth and post-pandemic challenges, learning to separate her identity from her business, and why entrepreneurship is often less about having all the answers and more about being willing to start before you feel ready. About Our Guest Lillian Rafson, Founder and CEO of Pack Up + Go Pack Up + Go Website Lillian's Coaching Website Connect with Lillian on LinkedIn Follow Pack Up + Go on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok Key Takeaways Your Next Big Idea Can Come From Anywhere Bootstrapping Creates Different Priorities Growth Isn't Always Linear Your Business Is Not Your Identity Don't Let Planning Become Procrastination

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Detroit Series: Leading the Team That Builds the Dream with Stephanie Stewart

Join Leslie Youngblood as she interviews Stephanie Stewart, founder of The Aesthetic Method, about her entrepreneurial journey, leadership, community involvement, and building a successful women-led business in Detroit. Discover insights on growth, team culture, balancing motherhood, and the unique grit of Detroit entrepreneurs. About Our Guest Stephanie Stewart, Founder and CEO of The Aesthetic Method Follow The Aesthetic Method on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok The Aesthetic Method website Key Topics Entrepreneurial journey of Stephanie Stewart Building a strong team and culture Community involvement and local causes Redefining growth beyond numbers Balancing motherhood and business Keywords Entrepreneurship, Women in Business, Detroit, Leadership, Growth, Team Culture, Aesthetic Industry, Community Impact, Business Strategy, Women Entrepreneurs

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The Real Cost of Breaking the Glass Ceiling in Science, Tech & Silicon Valley with Maheen Masouf Adamson

In this inspiring interview, Dr. Maheen Mausoof Adamson shares her journey from neuroscientist to med tech innovator, tackling the glass ceiling in science and tech. She discusses her groundbreaking AI-guided gaze tracking app, the challenges faced as a woman in Silicon Valley, and the importance of communication and resilience. About Our Guest Dr. Maheen Mausoof Adamson, CEO & Founder/Clinical Professor SOOF Solutions website Connect with Maheen on LinkedIn Invest in SOOF! Key Topics Breaking the glass ceiling in science and tech The development of SOOF's AI-guided gaze tracking app Challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in Silicon Valley The importance of communication and resilience in innovation The role of mentorship and community support Keywords Women in Tech, Neuroscience, Med Tech, Silicon Valley, Glass Ceiling, AI, Communication, Entrepreneurship, Female Leadership, Innovation

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Detroit Series: From Account Assistant to Agency Leader with Andrea Trapani

In this inspiring interview, Andrea Trapani, managing partner at Identity, shares her journey from early career challenges to leading a successful PR agency in Detroit. Discover her insights on leadership, building a strong company culture, embracing change, and balancing motherhood with ambition. About Our Guest Andrea Trapani, Managing Partner at Idendity Email Andrea: atrapani@identitypr.com Connect with Andrea on LinkedIn Identity Website Key Topics Leadership and company culture Remote work and organizational growth Mentorship and opportunity Balancing motherhood and professional ambition Keywords Leadership, Entrepreneurship, PR, Detroit, Company Culture, Remote Work, Women in Business, Mentorship, Growth, Success Stories

How To Build Wealth Without Losing Your Values with Christina Sjahli

Summary Join Leslie Youngblood and Christina Sjahli as they explore how women entrepreneurs can build wealth ethically, create purpose-driven businesses, and rethink traditional business models to foster impact and sustainability. About Our Guest Christina Sjahli, CEO and Founder or Profit Reimagined Profit Reimagined Website Connect with Christina on LinkedIn Get Christina's GOODWILL Assessment Keywords Women entrepreneurs, wealth building, B Corp, purpose-driven business, ethical business, sustainability, social impact, corporate finance, business exit strategies Key Topics The story behind understanding numbers as tools for freedom and decision-making The importance of digging deeper into financial data to understand business impact The shift from traditional corporate finance to purpose-driven entrepreneurship The role of B Corp standards in creating ethical and sustainable businesses Strategies for women founders to build wealth while maintaining social impact The importance of building a business that can operate independently of the founder for future exit planning The concept of building a business for purpose and positioning to choose The significance of trust, empathy, and treating people well in business How to avoid greenwashing and build authentic impact-driven brands The importance of aligning business operations with core values and purpose

My Origin Story & What’s Next for Serious Lady Business

Host Leslie Youngblood shares her inspiring journey from advertising to entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of self-belief, community, and continuous learning for women in business. This episode explores overcoming imposter syndrome, building opportunities, and empowering women to succeed. Key Takeaways Self-belief is crucial for success and can be sparked by small moments. Community and mentorship are vital for empowering women. Failure is a stepping stone; internalizing it hinders growth. Women should advocate for themselves and their worth. Sharing honest stories helps break down barriers and inspire others. women in business, entrepreneurship, self-belief, imposter syndrome, community, leadership, podcast, female founders, motivation, career growth

Detroit Series: The DJ Is the CEO and What Creative Women Learn About Leadership with DJ Nicole Myint

In this inspiring interview, DJ Nicole Myint shares her journey from passion for music to becoming a successful DJ and producer. She discusses overcoming industry challenges, the importance of authenticity, and her roots in Detroit's rich musical legacy. About Our Guest Nicole Myint, Detroit-based DJ and Producer Follow DJ Myint on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok DJ Myint's website Listen to Nicole on your favorite music platforms! Search MYINT. Key Topics DJ Myint's career journey and industry challenges The influence of Detroit's musical legacy The importance of authenticity and staying true to oneself Social media's role in building a music career Advice for women entering male-dominated fields DJ Myint, music industry, women in music, Detroit music scene, DJ career, music production, social media marketing, female entrepreneurs, leadership, creative careers

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Why Powerful Women Struggle to Talk About Themselves with Heidi Yarger

Leslie Youngblood interviews Heidi Yarger, Founder and Creative Director of Spitfiregirl about the importance of visibility, authentic self-promotion, and building a personal brand for women entrepreneurs. They discuss overcoming the fear of bragging, leveraging AI, and making bold moves to elevate women's voices and opportunities. About Our Guest Heidi Yarger, Founder and Creative Director of Spitfiregirl Design Spitfiregirl Design website Connect with Heidi on LinkedIn Follow on Instagram Key Takeaways The common fear women have about talking about themselves The difference between bragging and strategic authority How visibility is leverage in business and life The role of vulnerability in personal branding AI's impact on women's careers and personal branding Building a consistent narrative across online and offline presence Overcoming imposter syndrome and fear of judgment Practical steps to start showing up more authentically women entrepreneurs, personal branding, visibility, authenticity, AI, self-promotion, women in business, leadership, storytelling, confidence

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Detroit Series: Building Talent, Access, and a New Future for the City with Christina Ware

This episode features Christina Ware, a Detroit-based workforce innovation expert, discussing her journey, the importance of community engagement, and the exciting resurgence of Detroit. Learn how to leverage local opportunities, support underrepresented entrepreneurs, and build a thriving city from within. About Our Guest Christina Ware Connect with Chris on LinkedIn Email Chris at cware@teksystems.com Key Takeaways Detroit's economic resurgence and community impact The role of women leaders in city development Strategies for workforce development and talent pipeline Community engagement and support for entrepreneurs Detroit, workforce development, community engagement, entrepreneurship, women leaders, city revival, talent pipeline, local business, economic growth, leadership

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Power, Permission & Taking Up Space in Comedy with Lynn Harris

Host Leslie Youngblood chats with Lynn Harris about the power of comedy as a cultural force, the importance of representation, and how women can embrace their humor and confidence at any age. They explore how comedy shapes societal norms, the barriers women face, and the opportunities for diverse voices in the industry. About Our Guest Lynn Harris, Founder and CEO of Gold Comedy Connect with Lynn on LinkedIn Gold Comedy Website Follow Gold Comedy on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Link to start 2-week free trial with GOLD! Link to start 2-week free trial with STANDUP BOOT CAMP Link to Build and Pitch Any Idea with Emmy- and Peabody Award-winning Broad City producer Ryan Elizabeth Cunningham. Extended interest-free payment plans available. Just ask. Starts MONDAY, MARCH 16 and just a couple spots left. Key Takeaways The importance of not labeling women as 'female comedians' Comedy as a cultural force for social change Barriers women face in the comedy industry The impact of diversity on audience perception How comedy can normalize women in power Women in comedy, representation, cultural power, diversity, confidence, imposter syndrome, comedy industry, storytelling, online courses, life experience

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Detroit Series: Deana Neely On What It Really Takes to Lead, Build, and Power a City

In this inspiring interview, Detroit Voltage founder Deana Neely shares her journey from government support to building a successful woman-owned electrical contracting business in Detroit. Discover her strategies for overcoming industry challenges, the importance of community impact, and her vision for expanding globally. About Our Guest Deana Neely, Founder and CEO of Detroit Voltage Connect with Deana on LinkedIn Detroit Voltage website Key Topics Building as a woman in a male-dominated industry Community impact and workforce development in Detroit Strategies for business growth and pivoting Overcoming self-doubt and industry challenges Keywords Women entrepreneurs, Detroit business, trades, electrical contracting, community impact, business pivot, leadership, diversity, growth strategies

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The Trust Recession: Rebuilding Belief in Brands, Retail & Real Human Connection with Kate Assaraf

In this episode, Leslie Youngblood interviews Kate Assaraf, Founder of Dip haircare, about the trust recession, ethical marketing, and building authentic brands through small businesses and community engagement. They explore how trust is eroding in digital commerce and how brands can rebuild it by prioritizing human connection and transparency. About Our Guest Kate Assaraf, CEO of DIP Haircare Connect with Kate on LinkedIn Explore DIP Haircare Explore DIP Bar Shampoo and Conditioners Follow DIP on Instagram and TikTok Key Takeaways Trust recession and its impact on consumer behavior The importance of authenticity and transparency in branding How small businesses and local stores build trust and community The role of customer service and human connection in brand loyalty Challenges and opportunities of marketing in the age of AI and digital deception Keywords trust recession, authentic branding, small business, ethical marketing, consumer trust, community engagement, sustainability, AI in marketing, customer service, brand building

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Detroit Series: How Brand Trust and Loyalty Get Built with Lydia Michael

In this episode, Lydia Michael, a marketing and brand strategist, discusses the importance of emotion in branding, building trust, and loyalty. She shares insights on how brands can connect authentically with their audiences, the stages of brand love, and the significance of consistency and evolution in business growth. About Our Guest Lydia Michael, Owner of Blended Collective and Author of Brand Love Blended Collective Website Lydia's Website Connect with Lydia on LinkedIn Key Takeaways The role of emotion in strategy and branding Signals that build or erode trust The 8 stages of brand love and loyalty How culture influences emotional branding When and how to evolve your brand Keywords Brand Strategy, Emotion in Branding, Trust and Loyalty, Brand Building, Small Business Growth, Brand Evolution, Cultural Differences in Marketing

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Beyond the Algorithm: Building a Voice That Lasts with Marta Spirk

In this episode of Serious Lady Business, host Leslie Youngblood speaks with Marta Spirk, a speaking coach and author, about the journey of female entrepreneurship. They discuss the importance of longevity in business, the difference between relevance and resonance, and the challenges of chasing visibility versus authentic expression. Marta shares her insights on sustainable ambition, the significance of delegation, and the evolution of her voice throughout her entrepreneurial journey. They also touch on the impact of societal expectations on women in business, the 996 work culture, and how to reclaim one's voice after burnout. Marta's book, 'The Empowered Woman,' serves as a roadmap for women seeking to find their unique path to success. About Our Guest Marta Spirk, Singer & Speaking Coach at Marta Spirk Coaching Follow Marta on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook Marta's website Listen to Marta's podcast, The Empowered Woman Marta's music on Spotify and Apple Takeaways Longevity in business is about persistence and not giving up. Chasing visibility can disconnect you from your authentic voice. Quality connections are more important than quantity in business. Sustainable ambition means knowing when to say no to opportunities. Delegation is essential for growth and avoiding burnout. Success is not just about financial milestones but personal fulfillment. It's important to have a support network that understands your journey. Women have unique paths that should be celebrated, not compared. Reclaiming your voice after burnout involves grounding yourself in supportive relationships. Understanding your unique gifts is key to finding your purpose. Keywords: female entrepreneurship, speaking coach, business success, personal growth, visibility, authenticity, sustainable ambition, delegation, burnout recovery, empowered woman

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Detroit Series: Built on Sound- Detroit’s Music Legacy, Voice, and Creative Leadership with Dayna Davis

In this episode of Serious Lady Business, host Leslie Youngblood speaks with Dayna Davis, a talented singer, songwriter, and producer from Detroit. They explore the rich musical legacy of Detroit, the importance of authenticity in artistry, and the challenges faced by women in the music industry. Dayna shares her journey of self-discovery, the significance of community collaboration, and the power of saying no to opportunities that don't align with one's values. The conversation emphasizes the need for balance between personal and professional life, the beauty of imperfection in art, and the freedom that comes from creating one's own path while honoring the past. About Our Guest Dayna Davis, Music Artist & Entertainment Consultant Dayna's Website Follow Dayna on Instagram Follow Dayna on Facebook Key Takeaways Dayna's artistry is deeply influenced by Detroit's Motown legacy. She emphasizes the importance of authenticity in music and life. Success is self-defined and varies for each individual. Community collaboration is vital in the Detroit music scene. Women in music face unique challenges but can find their voice. Saying no to opportunities that don't align with values is crucial. Releasing control and delegating tasks can lead to growth. Art is imperfect and should be embraced as such. Freedom for creatives means doing what they love with those they love. Honoring the past while creating one's own path is essential. Keywords Dayna Davis, Detroit music, Motown legacy, female artists, creative authenticity, music industry, personal growth, community collaboration, artistic purpose, resilience

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Before TikTok: The Timeless Rules of Building a Loyal Client Base with Shelley Hancock

In this episode of Serious Lady Business, host Leslie Youngblood speaks with Shelley Hancock, a trailblazer in the aesthetic industry. They discuss the importance of connection in business, Shelley's journey into aesthetics, and the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship. Shelley shares her insights on building a business through presence, the power of positive energy, and the significance of letting go of fear. The conversation also touches on navigating product choices in aesthetics, learning from mistakes, and the shift back to basics in the industry. Listeners are encouraged to find their unique approach to business and embrace their journey. About Our Guest Shelley Hancock, Founder of Esthetic Success Connect with Shelley on LinkedIn Shelley Hancock's personal website Shelley's books Esthetic Success website Key Takeaways Connection is key in any business. Building a business requires presence and accessibility. Positive energy attracts clients. It's important to tell your story authentically. Letting go of fear can lead to success. You don't have to be loud to be successful. Mistakes are part of the learning process. Find what works for you in marketing. The aesthetic industry is evolving back to basics. Helping others is a true measure of success. Keywords business, aesthetics, entrepreneurship, connection, marketing, women in business, coaching, success, positivity, skincare

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