Smart Women Talk Radio

Have you ever thought, “I wish I had recorded Grandma’s stories before she passed”—and realized you waited too long? In this episode of Smart Women Talk, host Katana Abbott interviews Lauren Ferrara, former TV news anchor and founder of Why Wait Stories, about why our stories are one of the most meaningful legacies we can leave behind. Lauren shares how losing her dad—and filming his memorial—changed the entire course of her life and career. She explains why there’s no such thing as an “ordinary” life, how storytelling can be deeply healing, and why women’s stories in particular are often overlooked but absolutely essential. In this episode, you’ll discover:Why capturing stories can matter just as much as passing down money or heirloomsHow to start recording family stories using nothing more than your phoneCreative ways to use photos, old home movies, and even memorials as story-gathering momentsThe unexpected emotional and healing power of telling and hearing family storiesHow sharing stories can help the ne

How to Build a Remote Team Without Burnout with Jana FranklinSo many women start a business for freedom—only to find themselves working more than ever as the chief, cook, and bottle washer in their own company. In this episode of Smart Women Talk, host Katana Abbott interviews Jana Franklin, serial entrepreneur and Founder & CEO of CEO Concierge, a premium virtual assistant agency with a 75+ person international team. Jana shares how she:Went from corporate fashion and multi-unit franchise owner (Jimmy John’s & Fantastic Sams) to leading a remote teamDiscovered the power of matching tasks to personality—“front stage” vs. “backstage” workBuilt systems, SOPs, and support so she could stop doing everything herselfHelps entrepreneurs reclaim entire days each week by delegating email, admin, hiring, licensing, and moreYou’ll learn practical steps to:Decide what to delegate (starting with a simple one-week exercise)Think differently about money, risk, and hiring supportUse virtual assistants to scale your b

Take Charge of Your Life with Dr. Arin ReevesWhy do so many women feel tired of being tired—even after eight hours of sleep?In this powerful episode of Smart Women Talk, host Katana Abbott sits down with bestselling author and leadership consultant Dr. Arin Reeves to unpack the real reason women are burned out—and why “self-care” isn’t the solution.Discover how to identify and plug the “energy leaks” in your life, set boundaries that actually hold, and manage your energy (not just your time). Arin also breaks down the misunderstood stress gap between men and women in the workplace—and how women can reclaim their power without guilt or exhaustion.Topics include:Why self-care can sometimes add stressThe “canoe with holes” metaphor for burnout How to identify what’s draining vs. energizing youThe three kinds of energy: physical, cognitive, and emotionalPractical steps to delete, delegate, and resetLearn more about Arin and her latest book In Charge: The Energy Management Guide for Badass Women Who Are Tired of B

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. If you or someone you love is navigating a diagnosis, this conversation is for you. Host Katana Abbott sits down with Dr. Mensa, an expert in integrative oncology, to explore how nutrition, lifestyle, mind–body practices, and smart testing can help patients thrive during treatment—not just get through it. Katana also shares her personal journey with early-stage breast cancer, the choices she made (including cryoablation), and how having a coordinated care “quarterback” changed everything. Together they demystify naturopathic/integrative care—what it is, how it complements surgery/chemo/radiation, and practical steps women can start today. You’ll learn:What integrative oncology is—and how it supports conventional treatmentEvidence-informed nutrition basics (think: “rainbow plate,” anti-inflammatory herbs, smart sugar strategy)Why stress, sleep, and mindset matter—and easy ways to startWhich labs and hormone markers can inform a more personalized planPost-treatment tips

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and we’re spotlighting a critical—but often overlooked—piece of the journey: financial toxicity. Katana welcomes Molly MacDonald, co-founder & CEO of The Pink Fund and Editor-in-Chief of Breast Cancer Wellness Magazine.After her own diagnosis upended her livelihood, Molly built a national nonprofit that has paid nearly $11 million in non-medical bills for patients in active treatment—housing, transportation, utilities, and insurance—so they can stay on therapy and focus on healing.We also explore the magazine’s mission to educate, inspire, and deliver hope; the SurThrivor™ mindset; and community-powered fundraising like Dancing with the Survivors. You’ll learn:What “financial toxicity” looks like—and practical ways to prevent treatment disruptionHow The Pink Fund’s 90-day “financial bridge” works (what’s covered & who qualifies)Why education and mindset (via Breast Cancer Wellness Magazine) are essential to survivorshipResources & links:The Pink Fund (appl

What if AI could give you back 30 hours a week—without sacrificing your voice or your brand? In this episode, Smart Women Talk host, Katana Abbott, sits down with marketing strategist and AI expert Kendra Corman to unpack how she went from 14-hour days to building a smarter, lighter business with AI as her strategic partner. You’ll learn:How to train AI to write in your authentic voice (Kendra’s “Voice Paragraph Method”).Set guardrails so AI challenges your thinking instead of just agreeing.Start small with high-impact workflows you repeat all the time.We also cover practical tips on organizing chats and memories, sanity-saving prompts, and why kindness—even to your AI—pays off. You’ll hear:The Voice Paragraph Method for brand-true writing.How to make AI your strategic partner (not just a content machine).Starter prompts & projects that save hours right away.Smart ways to keep your AI projects, folders, and “memories” organized.Kendra Corman is a marketing strategist, AI expert, and author who went from w

What if working less is the key to more freedom, impact, and income?Dr. Nona Djavid—mindset mentor and author of Elevate Your Life—went from burnout to a seven-figure business while working just one week a month.In this inspiring conversation, we unpack her four-step “quantum leap” framework, the power of an unreasonable vision, and why success takes both mechanics (systems, strategy) and energetics (identity, beliefs, emotional state).We also talk self-care that goes beyond massages—real, moment-to-moment choices that protect your health, relationships, and joy. If you’re craving ease, abundance, and clear next steps, this one’s for you.Dr. Nona Djavid is a mindset mentor, author, and founder of the eLIVate Club and The One Week/Month Lifestyle. She helps high-performing women unlock their next level by combining neuroscience, energetics, and business strategy. A former chiropractor turned spiritual entrepreneur, Dr. Nona teaches clients how to quantum leap their impact and income without hustling harder. Sh

Do you feel like you’re constantly trying to control every aspect of your life—only to end up exhausted, anxious, or stuck?In this powerful interview, Katana Abbott talks with Kute Blackson, transformational speaker and bestselling author of "You Are the One" and "The Magic of Surrender."Kute shares deeply moving insights from his personal journey and his mother’s remarkable grace during her battle with cancer. You’ll learn how surrendering to life’s flow can bring more peace, clarity, and abundance than you ever imagined. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why surrender is not giving up—but letting go of what no longer serves you.How surrender can unlock more magic, miracles, and alignment in your life.The three main reasons your goals may not be manifesting (and how to shift them).Learn more about Kute Blackson: www.kuteblackson.comFree course – 8 Levels of Gratitude: www.8levelsofgratitude.comFree Manifestation Masterclass: www.manifestationmasterclassonline.com#SmartWomenTalk #KuteBlackson #MagicOfSurrende

Heal from Within with Dr. Shannon SouthIn this powerful episode of Smart Women Talk, Katana Abbott sits down with Dr. Shannon South — also known as The Joy Doctor — to explore how you can tap into your own “inner counselor” to heal from trauma, release limiting patterns, and step into lasting joy and abundance.Dr. Shannon shares her personal journey from anxiety and depression to profound healing, along with the transformative process she now teaches to clients and practitioners worldwide. Whether you’re facing emotional pain, seeking deeper spiritual connection, or ready to break free from old survival patterns, this conversation will inspire you to embrace the healing power within.Dr. Shannon D. South, known as the “Joy Doctor,” is an award-winning therapist, bestselling author, and inspirational speaker with over 25 years of experience in spiritual psychology and trauma healing. Following a personal awakening in 1994 that healed her anxiety and depression, she’s dedicated her life to helping others connect

In this episode of Smart Women Talk, host Katana Abbott sits down with the amazing Dr. Anna Cabeca for a powerful discussion on what it really means to live vibrantly after menopause.Dr. Anna shares why balancing hormones isn’t just about taking hormones—and how food, mindset, and lifestyle play an even bigger role. From her Keto-Green® lifestyle tips to natural approaches to sexual wellness, Dr. Anna offers a refreshing perspective that puts women back in control of their health and happiness.In this episode, you’ll learn:How to use food to rebalance hormones and support weight loss.Why sexual health still matters (and how to improve it naturally).What inflammation, stress, and insulin resistance have to do with menopause.Why Dr. Anna says "it takes more than hormones to fix your hormones."You’ll leave this episode feeling informed, inspired, and ready to thrive—no matter your age.Learn more about Dr. Anna: https://dranna.comDisclaimer:The information shared in this episode is for educational and information

Is midlife the beginning of the end—or the start of something powerful?In this episode of Smart Women Talk, Katana Abbott welcomes Pam DeRose and Julie Fidel, co-authors of Midlife Upgrade: A Girlfriend’s Guide to Finding Power in the Pause. Together, they challenge outdated beliefs about menopause, hormones, sex, and self-worth—and reveal why this season of life can be a profound opportunity for renewal. You’ll learn how to stop accepting vague answers from providers, ask the questions that matter, and find strength in sisterhood. Whether you're navigating hot flashes, brain fog, or just craving deeper connection, this conversation offers guidance, community, and real talk.Julie Fedeli is a devoted mother and passionate advocate for women’s well-being. As an inspirational entrepreneur, mentor, certified health and longevity coach, speaker, and author, Julie provides one-on-one consulting for women seeking holistic support through the complexities of midlife. Whether leading large-scale women's events or crea

Ready to create your own miracles?Dr. Mark Mincolla reveals the secrets behind extraordinary recoveries and profound health transformations by merging ancient energy healing methods with state-of-the-art nutritional science.Dr. Mincolla teaches you practical tools to unlock your highest potential, reduce stress, and embrace miraculous health and well-being.Tune in and start your journey to living in the miracle zone! During this show, you will learn:How Ancient Wisdom Meets Modern Science: Learn how combining ancient Chinese energy healing techniques with advanced nutritional science can dramatically improve your health and wellbeing.Practical Tools for Miraculous Living: Discover actionable strategies to tap into your super-consciousness, effectively reduce stress, and unlock your personal potential for extraordinary health transformations.How to Create Your Own Miracles: Understand how the mind-body connection can facilitate miraculous recoveries, empowering you to actively create miracles in your daily lif

Are you craving more joy, purpose, and freedom—but feeling stuck in the wrong place? Join us as author and wellness expert Emily A. Francis shares her bold story of leaving behind the familiar to start over in Malta, a Mediterranean island paradise.Discover how relocating for health, happiness, and alignment led Emily to not only rewrite her life—but to rediscover herself. From growing olive trees to working with local farmers and writing for a top tourism magazine, Emily’s journey proves it’s never too late to leap. If you’ve ever felt like you’re living in the wrong geographic location, this is your sign.Learn how place can influence purpose, how to trust your inner knowing, and how to become the breakout star of your second act. Emily A. Francis holds a Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science and Wellness and a Master’s in Kinesiology/Human Performance. As a Clinical and Neuromuscular Massage Therapist, she authored five influential healing books.In pursuit of vibrant health and happiness for her family, Emi

Why do bad things happen to good people?n this deeply moving episode of Smart Women Talk, Rabbi Cantor Judy Greenfeld joins Katana to explore how adversity shapes purpose.From personal tragedy to spiritual awakening, Rabbi Cantor Judy shares her journey of resilience, faith, and finding meaning. Discover how ancient prayers, movement, and daily practice can help you reconnect with your soul—and stand in your personal power no matter what you face.Join Rabbi Cantor Judy and Katana as they discuss:Why bad things happen to good people.How life isn't happening to you - it's happening for you.Why true power is owning your full story.Rabbi Cantor Judy Greenfeld is a lifelong entrepreneur, published author, and spiritual leader who blends ancient wisdom with modern wellness to guide forward-thinkers on their journey of personal growth. Her path was shaped by profound loss—the tragic death of her father when she was just 16—which sparked a lifelong exploration of healing through somatic dance, dream work, meditation,

Feeling stuck in a successful career? You’re not alone—and you’re not broken.  This episode features Arivee Vargas, former Big Law litigator turned executive coach and author of Your Time to Rise. Arivee shares her powerful story of career reinvention and the mindset shifts that helped her—and now help others—escape the career trap.  You’ll learn how to spot the red flags of misalignment, how cultural expectations and perfectionism keep high-achievers stuck, and how to take the first bold steps toward work that actually feels like success.  Whether you’re ready to pivot or just starting to question the path you’re on, this conversation will give you the clarity and courage to change course—with purpose.  Join Arivee and Katana as they discuss:  Breaking free from feeling stuck.Redefining success on your own terms.Practical strategies for career realignment.Arivee Vargas is an award-winning executive coach, author, and CEO of Humble Rising LLC. She helps high-achieving women, especially leaders and lawyers, br

What if the root of your chronic symptoms isn't in your head—but in your immune system? In this powerful conversation, Dr. Tom O’Bryan joins Smart Women Talk host Katana Abbott to break down the truth about autoimmune diseases and what you really need to know to take control of your health. Together, they explore:The 5 pillars behind the development of chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseasesWhat autoimmune disease actually is—and why awareness is your first defenseHow genetic and environmental triggers contribute to disease—and what you can do about itDr. Tom O’Bryan is a world-renowned expert on gluten and its connection to autoimmune conditions. With four decades of clinical and research experience, he’s a trusted voice on the complications of Non-Celiac Gluten Sensitivity, Celiac Disease, and the growing epidemic of autoimmune conditions affecting millions worldwide.  Learn more about Dr. Tom at thedr.com.Medical Disclaimer: The content of this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not int

What if the key to energy, strength, and independence in your second half isn’t more exercise—but the right kind? In this powerful episode, Debra Atkinson joins Smart Women Talk host Katana Abbott to bust myths about fitness after 50 and reveal how to master your metabolism at any stage of life. You’ll learn:The #1 exercise priority that determines long-term independence. How to know if your fitness routine is actually working—or wasting your time. Why most women are measuring success the wrong way (and what to do instead).Debra Atkinson has helped over 250,000 women “flip” their second half with hormone-smart fitness. She’s the bestselling author of You Still Got It, Girl and Hot, Not Bothered, and the host of Flipping 50 TV and the Flipping 50 Podcast—an AARP top podcast with over 2.5 million downloads. Debra’s TEDx talk, "Everything Women in Menopause Learned About Exercise May Be a Lie," has inspired women worldwide to rethink their approach to fitness and aging. Debra also created the first and only horm

Join Joanna and Katana as they discuss:How to find hidden stories in your life.Why it's never too late to reinvent yourself.How authenticity and self-trust are your superpowers.Joanna Klein, founder of Journey to Legacy, is a renowned speaker, writer, and transformational coach who became an entrepreneur at age 65. Drawing on her Master's in Social Work and decades of experience creating personal development programs, she guides people to uncover the hidden wisdom in their life experiences, using these insights both to shape their future and create meaningful legacies.Joanna's innovative approach to life story work has been featured in AARP and Medium, and she has presented at the RootsTech Family Search Conference for three consecutive years. Through her signature online courses and workshops in legacy development, she's helped hundreds of individuals discover the power of their personal narratives and reconnect with their authentic selves.At 71, Joanna continues to inspire others by demonstrating that it's

Join Shannon and Katana as they discuss:How to embrace change as an opportunity.How to recognize transferable skills for your next act.How to design a roadmap from here to there.Shannon Russell is a Television Producer turned Entrepreneur and Career Transition/Business Coach. She is also an Exit Strategy Expert, YouMap® Coach, Author, Speaker, and Host of the Second Act Success Career Podcast and the How To Quit Your Job and Start A Business Podcast. Shannon supports women who are unhappy with their 9-5 jobs as they pivot towards a "second act," building a business and being their own boss. She provides exit strategy guidance and helps her clients transition from employees to entrepreneurs.Shannon began her career by spending over 16 years as a television producer in New York City and Los Angeles, working for MTV, E!, Yahoo!, Pop Sugar, A&E, TLC, VH1, etc. She then pivoted to open her own business, running a Snapology franchise that teaches children STEM education so that she could be more present for her

Take Charge of Your Finances with Eva Moulton, CFP®Join Eva and Katana as they discuss:The first steps to building a healthy financial foundation for taking control of your money.The best resources and strategies to help you manage and grow your finances.The one simple step you can take today to make a lasting impact on your financial future.Eva started her career with Ameriprise as a financial advisor over 25 years ago and now runs a practice focused on empowering and guiding clients to financial stability and fulfillment by offering comprehensive solutions, through expertise and unwavering integrity. As a mom of three girls, and a daughter to a woman who was widowed at 57, she is an ardent advocate of women in finance and was the president of the Ameriprise Women's Empowerment network which sought to not only educate and engage women in finance both personally and professionally but also to empower them to strive for financial equality.To learn more about Eva, visit www.ameripriseadvisors.com.#SmartWomenTal