Finding Fearless

Hosted by Madeline Reeves

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Episodes

163

Latest episode

Oct 2025

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EN-US

About the show

Finding Fearless is an exploration of human-centric leadership and a celebration of ambition. Join host Madeline Reeves, CEO of Fearless Foundry, as she digs deep to learn from the lived experiences of underestimated entrepreneurs, innovators, creators, and fearless founders. Every episode presents an opportunity to learn from their successes—and struggles—while building a company on their own terms. Finding Fearless is produced by Fearless Foundry, a creative consultancy focused on advancing ambitious humans from around the globe to amplify their impact through branding, marketing, and business development.

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October 1, 2025Episode 1956 min

Trusting Your Gut in Climate Tech with Virginia Klausmeier of Sylvatex

In this episode of Finding Fearless, Madeline sits down with Virginia Klausmeier, the President and CEO of Sylvatex, a climate tech company. Together, they explore Virginia's journey of founding and scaling an impact-driven business and her mission to create a more sustainable future.Key themes include:Virginia’s path to founding Sylvatex and the unique challenges of scaling a climate tech company.The essential need to secure the right investors who are aligned with your company’s mission.The vital importance of a strong support system for female founders navigating a male-dominated industry.The significance of trusting one's intuition and the power of perseverance in the face of entrepreneurial challenges.The energy implications of technological advancements and the necessity of building sustainable solutions.00:00 Introduction to Finding Fearless00:39 Guest Introduction: Virginia Klausmeier of Sylvatex02:52 Virginia's Journey and Vision for Sylvatex06:26 Challenges and Insights in Climate Tech13:58 Navigating the Investment Landscape23:39 Balancing Growth and Values30:45 Navigating Hardships as a Minority Leader32:40 Balancing Personal and Professional Life35:40 Building a Support System38:08 The Importance of Community and Mentorship43:48 Advice for Aspiring Founders50:00 Final Thoughts and EncouragementConnect with Virgina:For more information about Sylvatex and their work in sustainable battery materials, visit sylvatex.com or connect with Virginia on LinkedIn.Connect with Fearless Foundry:Fearless FoundryMadeline ReevesFinding Fearless is an exploration of human-centric leadership and a celebration of ambition, releasing every other week on Wednesdays, 6AM PST. If you liked the show, please rate, review, and share! You can also visit our website to learn more about how to become a sponsor of Finding Fearless!Finding Fearless is produced by Fearless Foundry, a creative consultancy focused on advancing ambitious humans from around the globe to amplify their impact through branding, marketing, and business development. You can contact us at hello@fearlessfoundry.com if you are interested in our services and can follow us on all social media @fearlessfoundry. Season 4 music is by Premium Beats. All audio is recorded and owned by Fearless Foundry.

September 17, 2025Episode 181 hr 8 min

Accounting Tech That Does Good: Guy Pearson on Building Ignition

In this insightful episode of Finding Fearless, Madeline Reeves sits down with Guy Pearson, the founder and executive director of Ignition. Together, they explore their parallel journeys from the traditional accounting world to tech entrepreneurship, driven by a shared mission to build businesses that create positive change.Key themes include:Guy’s entrepreneurial journey and the challenges and triumphs of scaling Ignition.The critical importance of building a business that is deeply aligned with your personal values.His approach to leadership, emphasizing the creation of meaningful teams and a culture of diversity and inclusion.The power of mission-driven leadership and the impact of prioritizing positive change over pure profit.The vital role of self-care and authentic leadership in navigating the entrepreneurial path.00:00 Introduction to Finding Fearless00:42 Meet Guy Pearson: From CPA to Tech Entrepreneur01:45 The Birth of Ignition: Solving a Personal Problem05:52 Challenges and Strategies in Scaling a Business08:02 The Importance of Team Building and Leadership11:38 Maintaining Standards and Accountability19:29 Personal Growth and Leadership Evolution29:57 Balancing Leadership and Self-Care38:00 Balancing Work and Personal Life38:59 Finding Equilibrium Through Hobbies39:56 The Importance of Taking True Days Off40:58 Transitioning Leadership Roles43:11 Supporting Women in Male-Dominated Industries44:40 Personal Backstory and Influences49:28 Promoting Diversity and Inclusion01:00:27 Advice for Founders and Building a Positive Company Culture01:05:04 Closing Remarks and ReflectionsConnect with Guy:If you're interested in Guy's work around values-based leadership and building purpose-driven organizations, you can find him on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/guypearson1/. For Ignition, check out ignitionapp.com and follow @ignitionHQ. Connect with Fearless Foundry:Fearless FoundryMadeline ReevesFinding Fearless is an exploration of human-centric leadership and a celebration of ambition, releasing every other week on Wednesdays, 6AM PST. If you liked the show, please rate, review, and share! You can also visit our website to learn more about how to become a sponsor of Finding Fearless!Finding Fearless is produced by Fearless Foundry, a creative consultancy focused on advancing ambitious humans from around the globe to amplify their impact through branding, marketing, and business development. You can contact us at hello@fearlessfoundry.com if you are interested in our services and can follow us on all social media @fearlessfoundry. Season 4 music is by Premium Beats. All audio is recorded and owned by Fearless Foundry.

September 3, 2025Episode 171 hr 6 min

Reclaiming Joy Through Radical Rest with Jordan Maney

In this liberating episode of Finding Fearless, Madeline Reeves sits down with her friend Jordan Maney, a radical joy coach and the creator of Rest Lab. Together, they explore why rest, joy, and grief are essential, especially for women and people of color.Key themes include:Jordan's personal journey from a highly regimented life to one rooted in rest and joy.The vital importance of prioritizing rest in a culture that values constant productivity.The powerful connection between collective grief and the capacity for joy.Jordan's work in creating safe spaces for people to be present with their emotions and prioritize well-being.The societal issues of loneliness and the need for stronger, joy-filled communities.00:00 Introduction to Finding Fearless00:41 Meet Jordan Maney: Radical Joy Coach04:16 Jordan's Journey: From Rigid Success to Radical Joy07:28 The Turning Point: Embracing Vulnerability and Change09:06 The Final Wedding: A Pivotal Experience09:48 From Burnout to Boundaries: The Path to Rest Coaching22:43 The Intersection of Boundaries, Joy, and Identity31:13 The Burden of Performance: Gender and Racial Contexts32:45 Exploring Loneliness and Self-Care33:30 The Journey of Self-Realization35:30 The Importance of Community37:53 Navigating Relationships and Boundaries43:03 The Role of Joy and Grief in Community52:16 The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic55:21 The Power of Rest and Community01:01:27 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsConnect with Jordan:Website: jordanmaney.com Instagram: @jordanmaneyLinkedIn: Jordan ManeyWork with Jordan: Jordan offers coaching for progressive leaders, service providers, and change makers who want to learn the radical practice of rest to reclaim their joy and sustain their advocacy. Through her coaching and Rest Lab community, she provides the tools and support needed to build sustainable practices that prioritize well-being alongside impact.Connect with Fearless Foundry:Fearless FoundryMadeline ReevesFinding Fearless is an exploration of human-centric leadership and a celebration of ambition, releasing every other week on Wednesdays, 6AM PST. If you liked the show, please rate, review, and share! You can also visit our website to learn more about how to become a sponsor of Finding Fearless!Finding Fearless is produced by Fearless Foundry, a creative consultancy focused on advancing ambitious humans from around the globe to amplify their impact through branding, marketing, and business development. You can contact us at hello@fearlessfoundry.com if you are interested in our services and can follow us on all social media @fearlessfoundry. Season 4 music is by Premium Beats. All audio is recorded and owned by Fearless Foundry.

August 20, 2025Episode 1658 min

Finding Rest in a Restless World with Sleep Queen Monica Le Baron

In this restorative episode of Finding Fearless, Madeline Reeves sits down with Monica Le Baron, a bestselling author, sleep expert, and creator of Sleep Simplified. Together, they explore how prioritizing rest can profoundly transform your career, relationships, and overall well-being.Key themes include:Monica's personal journey from corporate burnout and insomnia to becoming a sleep expert.The essential connection between self-love, self-care, and achieving quality rest.Monica's unique four-step framework designed to simplify the path to better sleep.The power of breathwork and mindful routines in preparing your body for rest.Practical, actionable advice for listeners to immediately improve their sleep habits.00:00 Introduction to Finding Fearless00:39 Meet Monica Le Baron: Sleep Expert and Author02:28 Monica's Journey: From Burnout to Sleep Queen06:24 The Importance of Quality Sleep11:42 Challenges and Breakthroughs in Sleep Therapy22:30 Self-Love and Sleep: A Deeper Connection28:50 The Importance of Self-Care and Setting Standards29:47 Navigating Relationships and Self-Worth31:07 Cultural Shifts in Self-Care Practices33:02 The Rise of Simple, Effective Wellness Routines34:46 Introducing the Sleep Simplified Framework36:39 The Power of Breath Work40:28 Incorporating Yoga and Wellness into Daily Life49:34 Personal Transformation Through Wellness52:09 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsConnect with Monica:Instagram: @MonicaLeBaron Website: MonicaLeBaron.com Email: sleep@monicalebaron.com Connect with Fearless Foundry:Fearless FoundryMadeline ReevesFinding Fearless is an exploration of human-centric leadership and a celebration of ambition, releasing every other week on Wednesdays, 6AM PST. If you liked the show, please rate, review, and share! You can also visit our website to learn more about how to become a sponsor of Finding Fearless!Finding Fearless is produced by Fearless Foundry, a creative consultancy focused on advancing ambitious humans from around the globe to amplify their impact through branding, marketing, and business development. You can contact us at hello@fearlessfoundry.com if you are interested in our services and can follow us on all social media @fearlessfoundry. Season 4 music is by Premium Beats. All audio is recorded and owned by Fearless Foundry.

August 6, 2025Episode 151 hr 4 min

Unlearning to Succeed: Francesca Phillips on Finding Your Good Space

In this episode of Finding Fearless, I sat down with Francesca Phillips, founder of The Good Space. We dove into her journey from the music industry to becoming an advocate for purposeful living and creativity. Francesca shared her powerful experiences with depression and discovering her ADHD, and how these realizations shaped her unique approach to work and life.We discussed the pervasive "hustle mindset" and why it's so difficult to let go of. A core theme of our conversation was the vital importance of aligning your work with your personal values to create a more balanced and fulfilling life.Key Themes:Francesca's pivot from music industry management to nurturing creatives.Overcoming the societal pressure to constantly "hustle."The transformative power of understanding your own mental health and neurodivergence.How AI can free up time, and the importance of using that time for creativity and connection.Strategies for building a life and career that are truly aligned with your deepest values.00:39 Meet Francesca Phillips02:38 Francesca's Journey to The Good Space04:34 The Power of Morning Routines06:43 Overcoming Depression and Finding Purpose08:47 Challenging the Hustle Culture15:05 Cultural Differences in Work-Life Balance23:52 Redefining Value and Ambition32:43 Discovering Personal Values33:21 Aligning Work with Values34:00 Experimenting with Nervous System Regulation35:06 Challenging Capitalist Conditioning39:31 Embracing Neurodiversity47:13 Creating a Supportive Routine50:52 Unplugging from Social MediaGet ready for the Advisory Amplified Tour!I'm hitting the road this fall, with FinTech and accounting innovators for a high-impact, one-day event in six cities. We're diving into the future of advisory—think AI, automation, pricing, payroll, and people-first leadership. If you're a modern firm owner aiming to grow your impact, streamline services, or connect with peers, you can't miss this! Join us in Seattle, LA, Chicago, Austin, Atlanta, or Boston. Tickets are just $99. Visit to www.advisoryamplified.com register now!Connect with Francesca's Work:The Good Space Substack NewsletterWebsite: findyourgoodspace.com Personal site: francescaphillips.co Connect with Fearless Foundry:Fearless FoundryMadeline ReevesFinding Fearless is an exploration of human-centric leadership and a celebration of ambition, releasing every other week on Wednesdays, 6AM PST. If you liked the show, please rate, review, and share! You can also visit our website to learn more about how to become a sponsor of Finding Fearless!Finding Fearless is produced by Fearless Foundry, a creative consultancy focused on advancing ambitious humans from around the globe to amplify their impact through branding, marketing, and business development. You can contact us at hello@fearlessfoundry.com if you are interested in our services and can follow us on all social media @fearlessfoundry. Season 4 music is by Premium Beats. All audio is recorded and owned by Fearless Foundry.

July 23, 2025Episode 1459 min

Fearless Finance: Martin Kamenski on Breaking Down Barriers to Generational Wealth

In this enlightening episode of Finding Fearless, Madeline explores "Fearless Finance" with Martin Kamenski, CEO and founder of Revel CPA. Together, they delve into Martin's unique journey bridging the worlds of theater and finance, and his powerful mission to break down barriers to generational wealth for underrepresented communities.Key themes include:Martin's unconventional career path, spanning performing arts and the financial sector.His dedicated mission to build generational wealth, particularly for underrepresented communities.The critical importance of aligning core behaviors and values to forge a robust company culture.How authenticity in leadership leads to sustained success for both entrepreneurs and their teams.Insights into financial empowerment and the evolving landscape of the accounting industry.00:00 Introduction to Finding Fearless00:39 Exploring Fearless Finance with Martin Kamenski03:04 Martin's Unique Journey: From Theater to Finance05:18 The Intersection of Creativity and Business09:51 Rebranding and Niche Focus16:13 Core Behaviors and Company Culture23:24 Mission of Financial Empowerment31:00 Challenges Faced by Underrepresented Founders33:18 Barriers in the Accounting Industry36:18 Creating Inclusive Work Environments41:06 The Importance of Authenticity in Business46:43 Martin's Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs50:23 Conclusion and ResourcesGet ready for the Advisory Amplified Tour!I'm hitting the road this fall, with FinTech and accounting innovators for a high-impact, one-day event in six cities. We're diving into the future of advisory—think AI, automation, pricing, payroll, and people-first leadership. If you're a modern firm owner aiming to grow your impact, streamline services, or connect with peers, you can't miss this! Join us in Seattle, LA, Chicago, Austin, Atlanta, or Boston. Tickets are just $99. Visit to www.advisoryamplified.com register now!Connect with Martin:Follow him on LinkedInCheck out his firm revelcpa.com and @revelCPA. Martin also created a business value assessment that helps you understand how your company stacks up in the key areas that drive business value.You can take it for free here.Connect with Fearless Foundry:Fearless FoundryMadeline ReevesFinding Fearless is an exploration of human-centric leadership and a celebration of ambition, releasing every other week on Wednesdays, 6AM PST. If you liked the show, please rate, review, and share! You can also visit our website to learn more about how to become a sponsor of Finding Fearless!Finding Fearless is produced by Fearless Foundry, a creative consultancy focused on advancing ambitious humans from around the globe to amplify their impact through branding, marketing, and business development. You can contact us at hello@fearlessfoundry.com if you are interested in our services and can follow us on all social media @fearlessfoundry. Season 4 music is by Premium Beats. All audio is recorded and owned by Fearless Foundry.

July 9, 2025Episode 1357 min

Good Awkward: Growing Through Discomfort with Henna Pryor

In this inspiring episode of Finding Fearless, I sit down with Henna Pryor, a workplace performance expert, award-winning author, and keynote speaker whose journey from corporate conformity to entrepreneurial authenticity challenges everything we think we know about professional success.Key themes we explored:Henna's bold leap from Big Four accounting to founding her own ventureWhy traditional definitions of success are failing usThe revolutionary power of embracing professional awkwardnessHow personal experiences shape our willingness to take career risksStrategies for practicing effective vulnerability in professional settingsBuilding a sustainable, energizing career that aligns with your values00:00 Introduction to Finding Fearless00:38 Guest Introduction: Henna Pryor01:51 Henna's Career Journey05:35 The Call to Entrepreneurship11:34 Defining Success and Mindset Shifts18:07 Embracing Awkwardness: Henna's Book28:34 Understanding Burnout and Energizers28:52 Identifying What Energizes You29:24 The Clock-Watching Test30:21 Adjusting Your Workload32:04 Balancing Multiple Passions33:01 The Importance of Charging Your Worth33:49 Trial and Error in Business35:07 Diversifying Your Business36:31 The Reality of Hustle Culture38:25 The Myth of Overnight Success39:20 Authenticity and Vulnerability in Business41:01 The Power of Vulnerability46:02 The Value of Lifelong Learning52:28 Redefining Success on Your Own Terms54:44 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsConnect with Henna's Work:WebsiteHenna’s Book: ‘Good Awkward’LinkedIn: Henna PryorInstagram: @hennapryor FacebookConnect with Fearless Foundry:Fearless FoundryMadeline ReevesFinding Fearless is an exploration of human-centric leadership and a celebration of ambition, releasing every other week on Wednesdays, 6AM PST. If you liked the show, please rate, review, and share! You can also visit our website to learn more about how to become a sponsor of Finding Fearless!Finding Fearless is produced by Fearless Foundry, a creative consultancy focused on advancing ambitious humans from around the globe to amplify their impact through branding, marketing, and business development. You can contact us at hello@fearlessfoundry.com if you are interested in our services and can follow us on all social media @fearlessfoundry. Season 4 music is by Premium Beats. All audio is recorded and owned by Fearless Foundry.

July 2, 2025Episode 1247 min

Tea with the Team: What Does It Mean to Be Mission Driven with Madeline & Jamie

In this introspective episode of Finding Fearless, Madeline Reeves and Jamie Engelhardt explore the essence of human-centric leadership and the critical alignment of mission, values, and actions in business.Madeline introduces a new segment, "Tea with the Team," featuring a candid conversation with CMO Jamie. Together, they delve into:The common inconsistencies found within "mission-driven" organizations.The challenges and vital importance of cultivating authentic brand values.The necessity of establishing a clear and actionable mission statement.The role of powerful guiding questions in fostering true alignment.Reflections on personal experiences and the significance of being an "integrated entrepreneur."A critique of superficial marketing strategies and the emphasis on genuine accountability in leadership.00:00 Introduction to Finding Fearless00:40 New Season, New Ideas: TEA with the Team01:44 Mission-Driven Organizations: A Deep Dive03:03 Meet Jamie: Fearless Founder Team Insights03:50 The Importance of Mission-Driven Work05:20 Challenges and Realities of Mission-Driven Organizations06:38 The Concept of Brene Washing07:20 Spilling the Tea: Real Stories from Fearless14:28 The Evolution of Fearless Foundry's Mission23:32 The Energy of Alignment and Values25:46 Addressing Energy and Mission Focus26:21 The Pitfalls of Rebranding28:04 Living Out Your Values31:04 The Importance of Guiding Questions32:52 Red Flags in Organizations40:47 Mission-Driven Decisions43:00 Engage with Us45:23 Conclusion Connect with the Fearless Foundry team:Fearless FoundryMadeline ReevesJamie EngelhardtFinding Fearless is an exploration of human-centric leadership and a celebration of ambition, releasing every other week on Wednesdays, 6AM PST. If you liked the show, please rate, review, and share! You can also visit our website to learn more about how to become a sponsor of Finding Fearless!Finding Fearless is produced by Fearless Foundry, a creative consultancy focused on advancing ambitious humans from around the globe to amplify their impact through branding, marketing, and business development. You can contact us at hello@fearlessfoundry.com if you are interested in our services and can follow us on all social media @fearlessfoundry. Season 4 music is by Premium Beats. All audio is recorded and owned by Fearless Foundry.

June 25, 2025Episode 111 hr 2 min

Fearless Connection: Building the First LGBTQ+ Social Network with Cat & Marianna

In this episode of Finding Fearless, Madeline Reeves sits down with Catherine Perez and Marianna Di Regolo, the queer married founders of FAMM. Together, they explore their professional journeys and their mission to build a thriving, inclusive queer economy that challenges traditional business networks.Key themes include:The systemic barriers and funding challenges faced by LGBTQ+ professionals and entrepreneursTheir commitment to community-driven solutions and the creation of FAMMHow intentional spending and mutual support can transform economic landscapesThe launch of FAMM Connect - the first social network designed for LGBTQ+ professionalsThe vital importance of safety, visibility, and resilience in building inclusive platforms00:00 Introduction to Finding Fearless00:38 Meet Catherine Perez & Marianna Di Regolo03:14 Catherine & Marianna’s Professional Journeys08:10 The Love Connection15:09 Building FAMM: The Origin Story19:32 The Power of Branding23:40 Overcoming Barriers as LGBTQ+ Founders30:25 The Power of Barter Systems32:05 Networking vs. Genuine Connections34:20 Navigating Visibility and Safety39:00 Introducing FAMM Connect42:36 Building a Community-Centered Platform50:07 Future Vision and Impact54:26 Event Announcements and Closing RemarksConnect & Learn MoreHere's how you can engage with Cat & Marianna’s work:Website: heyfamm.com FAMM Connect: www.heyfamm.com/famm-connect Follow @hey_famm on Instagram, TikTok, and ThreadsConnect with Fearless Foundry:Fearless FoundryMadeline ReevesFinding Fearless is an exploration of human-centric leadership and a celebration of ambition, releasing every other week on Wednesdays, 6AM PST. If you liked the show, please rate, review, and share! You can also visit our website to learn more about how to become a sponsor of Finding Fearless!Finding Fearless is produced by Fearless Foundry, a creative consultancy focused on advancing ambitious humans from around the globe to amplify their impact through branding, marketing, and business development. You can contact us at hello@fearlessfoundry.com if you are interested in our services and can follow us on all social media @fearlessfoundry. Season 4 music is by Premium Beats. All audio is recorded and owned by Fearless Foundry.

June 11, 2025Episode 1054 min

Choreographing the life you want: Financial Freedom and Authentic Success with Tricia Taitt

In our latest episode of Finding Fearless, we had the privilege of speaking with Tricia M. Taitt, CEO of FinCore and fractional CFO who's transforming how women entrepreneurs approach their finances. Her journey from Wall Street executive to financial empowerment advocate offers powerful insights into building a sustainable, values-driven business.Key themes include:The critical importance of financial literacy for entrepreneurial successWhy less than 2% of women-owned businesses reach seven figures in revenueStrategies for overcoming financial fears and scarcity mindsetsThe difference between revenue and take-home pay (and why it matters)How childhood money lessons shape our business decisionsPractical steps for scaling beyond six figures with intention00:00 Introduction to Finding Fearless00:39 Meet Tricia Taitt of FinCore01:02 Tricia's Background and Achievements02:11 The Importance of Financial Education03:52 Tricia's Journey to Financial Consulting07:14 Challenges and Mindset Shifts for Women Entrepreneurs11:16 Setting Financial Goals and Overcoming Scarcity17:14 Practical Steps to Financial Success21:14 The Importance of Knowing Your Numbers27:58 Understanding Revenue vs. Take Home28:47 Coaching in Girl Bossy Spaces30:08 The Reality of Business Debt31:49 Perception of Wealth and Social Media32:35 Childhood Money Lessons40:46 Values and Money Management48:28 Connecting with Tricia and Upcoming Events51:31 Final Thoughts and OutroOfferings & upcoming events with Tricia:45-60 minute Financial Strategy call w/ Tricia M Taitt - CEO, FinCoreFinCore's Pay Yourself More CalculatorHow to be a Financially Resilient & Fearless CEO in Uncertain Times Virtual session w/ Madeline Reeves & Tricia M Taitt Luminary Live Small Business Summit in Chicago Connecting with Tricia- IG (@fincorestrong) or on Linked In Finding Fearless is an exploration of human-centric leadership and a celebration of ambition, releasing every other week on Wednesdays, 6AM PST. If you liked the show, please rate, review, and share! You can also visit our website to learn more about how to become a sponsor of Finding Fearless!Finding Fearless is produced by Fearless Foundry, a creative consultancy focused on advancing ambitious humans from around the globe to amplify their impact through branding, marketing, and business development. You can contact us at hello@fearlessfoundry.com if you are interested in our services and can follow us on all social media @fearlessfoundry. Season 4 music is by Premium Beats. All audio is recorded and owned by Fearless Foundry.