If you’re ready to lead with more empathy, courage, and clarity — this is your episode. 💡

In this conversation, we talk about:

– Navigating the legal system with compassion

– Why trauma-informed leadership matters

– Self-care as a radical act for survivors

– How to turn pain into purpose

– Entrepreneurship as a tool for advocacy

– And what it means to lead with values — even when it’s hard

💌 This episode is for you if you’re:

– Ready to grow through what you’ve gone through

– Looking to serve your community in a bigger way

– Curious about how trauma shapes leadership

– Searching for clarity, healing, or your next step

🎧 You’ll walk away with:

✓ A deeper understanding of how trauma shows up in life + work

✓ Empowering tools for leading with empathy

✓ A new perspective on consent, boundaries, and self-respect

✓ Micha’s top 2 life-changing reads — The Body Keeps the Score + Sapiens

✓ The reminder you didn’t know you needed: you can trust yourself

⸻

Micha Star Liberty is a nationally recognized trial lawyer, trauma-informed leader, and the founder of Liberty Law. She’s a fierce advocate for survivors, a voice for justice in the courtroom, and a mentor for the next generation of impact-driven women. ⚖️

But beyond her resume, Micha is real, grounded, and speaks truth with the kind of wisdom that sticks with you.

📚 Explore Micha’s book, Evolutionista

Find it now on Amazon → https://a.co/d/5FtUV8T

Follow Micha Star Liberty on LinkedIn here.

The 2 books Micha described as life-changing:

1. The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel Van Der Kolk
2. Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari

⸻

In this episode:

00:00 – Intro to Micha Star Liberty

13:50 – Empowerment Through Advocacy

16:40 – Understanding Toxic Environments

19:29 – The Mind-Body Connection and Trauma

22:29 – Trauma-Informed Leadership

25:44 – Navigating the Legal System

28:45 – Entrepreneurship and Advocacy

31:40 – The Importance of Community

34:42 – Reality-Based Optimism in Healing

37:28 – Consent in the Digital Age

40:54 – Literature’s Impact on Growth

43:26 – Final Thoughts + Life Advice

59:45 – Books That Changed Micha’s Life

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🗓️ New episodes every Monday at 11 AM EST

📺 Subscribe on YouTube: @soniamartaauthor

🌍 Connect with Sonia: www.soniamarta.com

Follow Sonia’s journey & grow together:

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Credibility is the foundation of leadership. You can’t be a leader without a follower.

In today’s episode, learn the 5 practices to becoming an exemplary leader:

1. Model The Way - do what you say you will do
2. Inspire a Shared Vision - see and share exciting possibilities for the future
3. Challenge the Process - empower others to take initiative and experiment
4. Enable Others to Act - foster collaboration and build up others

5. Encourage the Heart - celebrate others by showing gratitude

Follow Barry Posner on LinkedIn here.

SPONSOR: To grow your career and explore opportunities at Computer Generated Solutions (CGS) today, find out more details at www.romania.cgsinc.com.

Barry is the Accolti Professor of Leadership at the Leavey School of Business at Santa Clara University, right in the heart of Silicon Valley. He’s an internationally recognized leadership expert, speaker, and scholar, and has been named one of the Top 50 leadership coaches in America and one of the 10 Most Influential HR thinkers in the world by HR magazine.

Barry is best known as the co-author of the best-selling The Leadership Challenge series, a groundbreaking set of books that have sold over 3 million copies and been translated into more than 20 languages. These books, co-written with Jim Kouzes, provide practical, research-backed insights on why leadership is everyone’s business — helping leaders at all levels become their best selves.

In addition to his writing, Barry has worked with some of the world’s most impactful companies — from Apple and Hewlett-Packard to Trader Joe’s and Kaiser Permanente — and has guided leadership development efforts on over 50 college campuses. His work blends research with real-world application, making his advice both insightful and actionable.

Connect with Sonia:

• ⁠Instagram⁠
• ⁠Website⁠
• ⁠Links⁠

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Leadership Excellence

16:28 The Five Exemplary Practices of Leadership

25:12 Personal Stories of Leadership Impact

34:02 Building Competence and Confidence in Young Leaders

35:48 Embracing Failure as a Path to Success

40:38 Building Resilience and Confidence in Leadership

48:49 Applying Leadership Skills Beyond School

54:06 The Power of Passion in Leadership

01:01:19 Introduction to Leadership Insights

01:02:23 Key Traits of Effective Leaders

01:04:08 The Impact of The Leadership Challenge

01:04:58 Personal Reflections and Conclusion

These are 3 insights that will help you thrive as a student in the fashion industry:

1. Resilience and adaptability are crucial for success in fashion.
2. Networking is essential for building relationships in the industry.
3. Adaptability is key during high-pressure situations in fashion.

The fashion education area is becoming more saturated with programs by the day. As a student searching for valuable should seek hands-on experiences over lectures

Get a copy of Ilyssa’s personal favorite books that changed her life:

• The Psychology of Money: Timeless lessons on wealth, greed, and happiness by Morgan Housel
• The Lean Startup: How Today's Entrepreneurs Use Continuous Innovation to Create Radically Successful Businesses by Eric Ries

Follow Ilyssa Wexler on LinkedIn here.

SPONSOR: To grow your career and explore opportunities at Computer Generated Solutions (CGS) today, find out more details at www.romania.cgsinc.com.

With over two decades of entrepreneurial success and a strong background in Wall Street as a top sales leader, Ilyssa Wexler brings a rare combination of business expertise and creative passion to the fashion industry. Since founding Fashion for Futures in 2016, she has empowered countless students by providing them with the essential tools to build professional portfolios, develop business strategies, and launch their own fashion careers or brands.

Ilyssa is a professor at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in Florence and has taught at prestigious institutions like Columbia University's pre-college program.

Under her guidance, students gain real-world insights, preparing them for success at top fashion houses or as independent designers. Ilyssa’s focus on entrepreneurship and portfolio development ensures her students are not only talented but business-savvy, ready to make their mark in the competitive fashion landscape.

Connect with Sonia:

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• ⁠Website⁠
• ⁠Links⁠

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Ilyssa Wexler

00:45 Key Lessons for Thriving in Fashion

02:57 The Role of Networking in Fashion

04:47 Values of Fashion for Futures

07:14 Founding Fashion for Futures

09:40 Daily Operations and Student Engagement

10:53 Highlights from Paris Fashion Week

13:10 Characteristics of Successful Students

15:44 Impact of Immersive Learning

17:48 Business Expertise in Fashion Education

21:43 Crafting a Standout Fashion Portfolio

23:30 Evolution of Fashion Education

26:48 Choosing the Right Summer Programs

31:37 Building Meaningful Connections

37:12 Book Recommendations for Aspiring Fashion Leaders

40:46 Advice for Leaders in the Fashion Industry

43:17 Final Thoughts on Persistence

Fun can reduce stress and improve work performance. Making choices based on fun leads to a more fulfilling life.

In today’s episode, learn the difference fun can have in your everyday life, using Joel’s “TA-DA” philosophy.

“The journey is as important as the destination in personal development.”

Follow Joel on LinkedIn here.

Get a copy of Joel’s personal favorite books that changed his life:

- Make The Right Choice: Lead with Passion, Elevate Your Team, and Unleash the Fun at Work

- The Catcher in the Rye By J.D. Sangler

This episode is sponsored by CGS. To grow your career and explore opportunities at CGS today, find out more details at www.romania.cgsinc.com.

Joel is a dynamic speaker, work culture expert, improvisational humorist, and author who has spent more than 25 years inspiring audiences with his unique blend of comedy and business insight.

As the author of Make the Right Choice, Joel teaches that success often hinges on the choices we make — choosing creativity, passion, and positivity in both our personal and professional lives. Through his engaging keynotes and interactive improvisation, he demonstrates how celebrating small wins can drive collaboration, innovation, and productivity.

Joel's journey has taken him from newspaper journalism and corporate communications to captivating audiences at over 2,500 events for companies like Wells Fargo, Samsung, and even the IRS. His infectious energy and hilarious on-stage moments remind us that success isn’t just about strategy — it’s about embracing fun and passion along the way.

Connect with Sonia:

⁠Instagram⁠

⁠Website⁠

⁠Links⁠

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Joel Zeff

03:40 Finding Passion and Happiness in Work

05:28 The Importance of Fun in the Workplace

12:23 Creating Opportunity and Positive Support

17:57 The TADA Mindset: Celebrating Small Wins

23:05 The Five Secrets of the TADA Mindset

26:25 The Role of Improv in Leadership

30:58 The Magic Harmonica and Embracing Change

36:11 Embracing Change and Confidence

40:09 The Power of Choice in Difficult Times

43:17 Improv as a Tool for Adaptability

47:28 Unlocking Creativity in Teams

49:58 Advice to My Younger Self

56:30 Books That Shaped My Journey

58:41 Breaking the Ice with Humor

01:02:56 Incorporating Creative Moments into Daily Life

“We live in an age where we want to be connected. Be online. Be engaged. Don’t be invisible. Share knowledge and other people’s work.”

In today’s episode, tune into this discussion on the importance of legacy, the climate crisis, and the empowering messages from leaders in various fields.

Sangeeta shares:

• her journey as an activist
• insights on building a personal brand as an author
• common mistakes to avoid as authors
• corporate social responsibility, the significance of transparency in business

Get a copy of Sangeeta’s personal favorite books that changed her life:

• Far From The Madding Crowd by Thomas Hardy
• David Copperfield by Charles Dickens

Sangeeta is an award-winning Public Relations professional, ranked at number 25 in the top 100 of the PR Influencer Index, and the founder of Serendipity PR & Media, which she established in 2009. With a remarkable career that began writing speeches for a former UK Prime Minister and Ministers, Sangeeta has worked with some of the most powerful global brands and organizations, including The Economist Group, the Cabinet Office, WHO, UN, The Times, Mayor of London, and many more.

Sangeeta is also an accomplished author, with her first book, The PR Knowledge Book, published in 2019, and her latest work, Corporate Social Responsibility Is Not Public Relations, making waves in the world of business and sustainability. Today, we’ll be diving into her newest book, What Will Your Legacy Be? — a thought-provoking guide that explores how we can build meaningful legacies through our work, values, and everyday actions.

Beyond her professional achievements, Sangeeta is a firm believer in the power of serendipity — those unexpected moments that can shape careers and businesses. She regularly writes for international platforms about sustainable business practices and serves on various boards, including the UK Taskforce for Women in Enterprise.

Connect with Sonia:

• ⁠Instagram⁠
• ⁠Website⁠
• ⁠Links⁠

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Key Takeaways

00:01 Inspiring Stories and Perspectives on Climate Change

13:31 Actionable Steps for Young People

18:15 Advice for the 17-Year-Old You

21:48 Finding Your Passion and Making a Difference

24:24 Marketing Strategies for Authors

27:14 Common Mistakes Authors Make

30:47 Building Community Support for New Authors

33:35 Working with Celebrities and Building a PR Agency

34:52 The Evolution of Celebrity Influence

37:10 Authenticity in Storytelling

39:47 Understanding Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)

42:34 The Importance of Transparency in Business

45:04 The Power of Individual Choices

46:23 The Impact of Literature on Life Perspectives

54:11 Surprising Personal Insights

55:12 Empowering Change in Everyday Life

59:06 Outro

"Act like you belong because you do."

Here are the 8 advices Leilani presents in today's episode, which can help you succeed in both your professional and personal life.

1. Communication is key in both personal and professional relationships.
2. Mentorship can provide guidance and open doors to opportunities.
3. New professionals should focus on accountability and being proactive.
4. Building relationships is crucial, especially in remote work settings.
5. Imposter syndrome is common; acknowledging your worth is essential.
6. Learning from mistakes can lead to personal and professional growth.
7. Curiosity and lifelong learning are vital for success.
8. Establishing a morning routine can enhance productivity and mindset.

Get a copy of Leilani's personal favorite books that changed her life:

• The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness
• The Emperor’s New Clothes, A Folktale By Hans Christian Anderson

Leilani M. Brown — dynamic leader, author, and strategist who has built an impressive career at the intersection of strategy, culture, and the future of work. She is the founder and CEO of Giant Steps, LLC, a consulting firm that partners with a diverse portfolio of clients — corporate businesses, non-profit organizations, arts & cultural institutions, healthcare organizations, and educational entities.

Before launching her own firm, Leilani was an award-winning executive at some of the world’s leading companies, including Stride, Starr Insurance Companies, The Economist Group, MetLife, and American International Group. Her wealth of experience gives her a unique perspective on leadership, workforce development, and organizational culture.

Leilani is also the host of the podcast Your First Job, where she explores early career experiences, offering invaluable insights into navigating the workforce and bridging generational gaps. She brings the same passion for mentorship to her celebrated book, From Campus to Career: 25 Tips for Your First Professional Year, which serves as a practical guide for interns, new graduates, and young professionals. She also is the author of “Your Next Giant Steps: 25 Practical Tips for Job Search Success”.

Connect with Sonia:

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• ⁠Links⁠

In today’s episode, Sonia Marta brings you a conversation from a teenager to a teenager. High school student to freshman in college, the two sit down to get real about the importance of starting young, and the impact you can have on the community.

By listening until the end, you will learn these 3 concepts:

• To follow your dreams you must have perseverance
• The more you give, the more you get
• Take action to just start

Follow Shesh on LinkedIn here.

Get a copy of Shesh’s personal favorite books that changed her life:

• Atomic Habits An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones
• Who Moved My Cheese? An A-Mazing Way To Deal With Change In Your Work And In Your Life

Shesh is the Founder and Executive Director of GURLS (Girls United Reaching for Success), a nonprofit dedicated to increasing female representation in chess — a space where women have historically been underrepresented. A top chess player from Connecticut, she has been playing since the age of 3 and now uses her platform to empower young women to step into the game with confidence.

Beyond chess, Shesh is an Ambassador at the Northeastern University Entrepreneurs Club and has helped upbring clubs like Chess Club and FBLA at her school, emphasizing her commitment to building supportive and impactful communities.

Shesh has recently delivered a TED Talk titled Empowering Equality, Inspiring Action, inspiring young women to take charge of their futures — a must-watch for anyone passionate about creating positive change.

Shesh’s journey is a masterclass in leadership, advocacy, and using one's talents to uplift others.

Connect with Sonia:

• Instagram
• Website
• Links

Here’s the 3 key habits and practices you will learn if you listen all the way to the end of today’s episode:

1. Comparison = foolishness - why learning how to stop comparing yourself can make you feel happier.
2. You are an amazing person. Remember that when you wake up in the morning, and be better at tackling every challenge today brings you.
3. Pain creates purpose. Through acknowledging and reflecting on yesterday’s difficulties, you get closer to discovering your mission, your values, and just how strong you are.

Follow Frank on LinkedIn here.

Get a copy of Frank’s personal favorite books that changed her life:

• Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ
• The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership: Follow Them and People Will Follow You

• Mindset: The New Psychology of Success

Frank Sinclair is a life and empowerment coach, business consultant, keynote speaker, and author who is on a mission to infuse hope and encouragement into the world.

With a deep passion for helping individuals reclaim their dreams and build achievable plans for success, Frank has made a lasting impact in Colorado Springs and beyond. As the author of Dream Again and co-author of Your Personal Life Coach and Your Personal Business Coach, he brings a wealth of knowledge on personal growth, resilience, and leadership.

Frank is also the host of The Be Encouraged Show with Frank and Lisa, where he shares inspiring conversations and practical strategies to overcome challenges and achieve meaningful success. A champion for diversity and inclusion, his work as a cultural facilitator has empowered countless individuals to embrace their potential and take bold steps forward.

Connect with Sonia:

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• Links