Ignite Podcast

Hosted by Cara Kirsch

Business

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Jun 2026

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About the show

Ignite Women in Insurance was founded in 2018 with the goal of bringing women in the insurance industry together for collaboration, friendship and encouragement. Each year, our annual conference hosts more than 200 women in sharing content that will drive confidence and encouragement. In 2023, Ignite was expanded to include all women in business as the issues facing women in insurance are not unique to the industry but rather all women looking to grow, advance, create wealth and kick ass. The Ignite Women In Insurance and Business Podcast is an opportunity to expand the vision of Ignite and explore the stories of the very women that we work to empower and encourage. We will dive into stories of success, opportunities and confidence. The 2024 conference is all about confidence – how do we get it, strengthen it and live in that confidence. What can you expect from the podcast – 1. Truth – speaking truth to women about how they can grow and sustain their confidence in an era where women continue to thrive for a seat at the decision-making table. 2. Strength – while much progress has been made to give women a seat at the table, there is much work to do and we are calling on everyone – men and women alike to find strength in numbers as we continue to pave a new path. 3. Action – what are the ways that you can step into your greatness establishing a confident path that aligns with your overall life objectives. 4. Energy – the energy we possess is what will take us to the next level – elevating us in ways that bring happiness and joy! This podcast will bring you energy! Social Media LinkedIn: Ignite Women In Insurance Twitter: @IgniteNebraska Facebook: Ignite Women in Insurance Nebraska Instagram: ignitenebraska Website: Ignite! (ignitewomenininsurance.org) ]]>

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30 recent

June 2, 202638 min

Unlocking Leverage

What separates thriving businesses from those that feel stuck? In this episode of the Ignite Podcast, host Cara Kirsch sits down with Jennifer DiMotta, Founder of Uprisors Growth Partners and uprisors.com, to discuss the strategies that help businesses unlock growth, improve profitability, and operate at their full potential. Jennifer shares how she works with business owners to identify hidden cash leaks, uncover their true competitive advantages, and build sustainable strategies for long-term success. She also explains her unique approach to "reading the label on the pickle jar," a powerful concept that helps leaders gain clarity on their business challenges and opportunities by stepping back to see the bigger picture. Whether you're a business owner, entrepreneur, executive, or emerging leader, this conversation offers valuable insights on growth, strategy, and creating a stronger foundation for success. Connect with Ignite Women in Insurance: Twitter/X: @IgniteNebraska Instagram: @ignitenebraska Website: ignitewomeninbusiness.org #BusinessGrowth #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #WomenInBusiness #BusinessStrategy #SmallBusiness #ProfessionalDevelopment #IgnitePodcast #JenniferDiMotta #DundeeGrowthPartners This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or Hurrdat Media YouTube channel!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

May 5, 202641 min

Everything is a Season

Brooke Pauley is the CEO and Founder of Horsepower Today. She recognized a growing and widespread challenge across organizations: persistent labor shortages and operational inefficiencies. Driven to make an impact, she set out to build a professional services consulting firm designed to help businesses overcome these obstacles and operate with greater strength and clarity. Brooke’s sharp business instincts make her a natural fit for the CEO role, and her determination is what fuels her leadership every day. She approaches her work with curiosity and a mindset of constant learning, never hesitating to pivot when the situation calls for it. Outside of her professional life, Brooke is fully devoted to her family. As a wife and mother, she cherishes her weekends with them and enjoys creating opportunities for her children to grow through kindness, independence, and real-world experiences. You can find Brooke on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brooke-pauley-cpa-a2066326/ Get Connected!LinkedIn: Ignite Women In InsuranceTwitter: @IgniteNebraskaFacebook: Ignite Women in Insurance NebraskaInstagram: ignitenebraskaWebsite: Ignite! (ignitewomenininsurance.org) This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or Hurrdat Media YouTube channel!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

April 21, 202650 min

Serendipitous Moments

Allison Beninato, CEO and Founder of Inspire Collaborative Health Association, is on a mission to create a path for those seeking a more holistic approach to healthcare. After 24 years in conventional medicine and her own experience navigating a broken system Allison decided to take matters into her own hands. What began as a challenge to support a complex system with innovative solutions quickly turned into a journey filled with “serendipitous” moments, as countless people embraced the idea of blending Western and alternative medicine. Today, Allison leads both a nonprofit and a for-profit entity dedicated to transforming healthcare. In this episode, she shares her advice for patients: be your own best advocate and don’t hesitate to be persistent. For entrepreneurs, her message is equally powerful resilience is key. As Allison says, “choose your hard,” because no matter the path, grit and determination will be the foundation of your success.Get Connected!LinkedIn: Ignite Women In InsuranceTwitter: @IgniteNebraskaFacebook: Ignite Women in Insurance NebraskaInstagram: ignitenebraskaWebsite: Ignite! (ignitewomenininsurance.org) This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or Hurrdat Media YouTube channel!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

April 7, 202650 min

Leading with Vision and Heart

Dr. Kelsey Wright is the founder and principal of Wright Healthcare Advisors, a trailblazer in healthcare leadership and operational excellence. With over 15 years of experience driving innovation in clinical operations, digital health, and revenue cycle optimization, Kelsey brings a wealth of expertise and a passion for transforming the healthcare landscape. Beyond her professional achievements, Kelsey is a devoted wife and stepmom, and she’s excitedly preparing to welcome her first child in 2026. In this episode, Kelsey takes us inside her remarkable journey; from early clinical roles to spearheading organizational change and ultimately launching her own firm. We’ll explore the leadership lessons she’s learned, the challenges she’s overcome, and the intentional strategies she now uses to help healthcare organizations elevate performance, improve patient outcomes, and create lasting impact.Get Connected!LinkedIn: Ignite Women In InsuranceTwitter: @IgniteNebraskaFacebook: Ignite Women in Insurance NebraskaInstagram: ignitenebraskaWebsite: Ignite! (ignitewomenininsurance.org) This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or Hurrdat Media YouTube channel!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

March 25, 202653 min

Bold Moves and Building Communities

Kim Goins, founder of the MillionHeir’s Club and a transformational performance coach, is redefining success on her own terms. After years of building businesses and creating wealth for others, Kim made the courageous decision to do it for herself and for women everywhere. Fiercely committed to empowering Black women, she shows up authentically every day, unapologetically embracing her greatness.Kim is not just a visionary leader; she’s also a wife and mother with a powerful personal mission: to retire her husband. In this episode, she shares her journey, her bold moves, and her unique approach to building thriving communities; what she playfully calls “building a cult” (in the best way). Like Beyoncé’s BeyHive, Kim believes that when a community is strong and self-regulating, it will have your back; even when you’re not in the room.Get Connected!LinkedIn: Ignite Women In InsuranceTwitter: @IgniteNebraskaFacebook: Ignite Women in Insurance NebraskaInstagram: ignitenebraskaWebsite: Ignite! (ignitewomenininsurance.org) This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or Hurrdat Media YouTube channel!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

March 11, 202651 min

Building a Business with Purpose

Jennifer Petersen is an Omaha-based attorney and founder of JRP Law, a firm dedicated to tackling the complex challenges of employment law. Her approach combines sharp legal expertise with mediation strategies, guided by her belief that “the best defense is a good offense.” Now in what she calls Act 3 of her life; Jennifer is fully focused on growing her business and investing her energy into the work and causes she loves. She has played an active role in the Omaha Bar Association and other organizations that support the legal community, always choosing projects that align with her values. Jennifer is passionate about embracing technology to make her practice more efficient and client focused. Her story is one of reinvention, resilience, and commitment to doing meaningful work. Learn more about Jennifer and JRP Law at thejrplaw.com.Get Connected!LinkedIn: Ignite Women In InsuranceTwitter: @IgniteNebraskaFacebook: Ignite Women in Insurance NebraskaInstagram: ignitenebraskaWebsite: Ignite! (ignitewomenininsurance.org) This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or Hurrdat Media YouTube channel!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

February 17, 202633 min

Tough love is good love

Alexis Lawson is a purpose-driven speaker, facilitator, and program leader with over 8 years of sobriety and nearly a decade of experience working at the intersection of recovery, reentry, youth development, and personal transformation. She is also a speaker at the 9th annual Ignite Women in Business & Insurance conference. Her work is rooted in lived experience overcoming addiction, incarceration, and instability and shaped by years of facilitating conversations that move people from survival mode into self-awareness, accountability, and forward momentum. Alexis doesn’t speak at audiences; she engages them with honesty, structure, and tools they can actually use. She began speaking in 12-step and recovery spaces and has since expanded far beyond them, bringing her message to treatment centers, youth programs, events and community organizations seeking meaningful, trauma-informed impact. You can find Alexis on: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexis-lawson-she-hers-her-385896105/ Get Connected!LinkedIn: Ignite Women In InsuranceTwitter: @IgniteNebraskaFacebook: Ignite Women in Insurance NebraskaInstagram: ignitenebraskaWebsite: Ignite! (ignitewomenininsurance.org) This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or Hurrdat Media YouTube channel!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

February 10, 202646 min

We are not robots, we are Real People

AnnMarie Fereday is the Owner and Digital Strategist at Refine Digital Marketing, where she helps businesses grow by turning complex digital challenges into simple, effective strategies. AnnMarie is not only a digital expert. She is also a wife and mother who has built her career around caring for her family and creating balance in her life. For the past two years, she has been a key part of the Ignite Women in Business and Insurance community. She is the creative mind behind the digital presence that has helped elevate the brand. Outside of work, AnnMarie loves to travel. In 2025, she took her family on a memorable trip through the Greek Islands where they enjoyed time together, incredible food, and great wine. In this episode, she shares practical digital strategy tips, useful insights, and the fun, witty personality that makes her such a standout in her field. You can find AnnMarie on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annmariefereday/.Get Connected!LinkedIn: Ignite Women In InsuranceTwitter: @IgniteNebraskaFacebook: Ignite Women in Insurance NebraskaInstagram: ignitenebraskaWebsite: Ignite! (ignitewomenininsurance.org) This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or Hurrdat Media YouTube channel!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

February 3, 202637 min

COVID Lunchroom Legends

Libby Henry, Vice President of Sales at ParetoHealth—a leading captive management company—is not only a dynamic business leader but also a proud wife and mom to two hockey-loving daughters. In this episode, Libby opens up about the power of building strong female relationships rooted in authenticity and direct communication. Known for her intensity at work and her love of being playful when the moment calls for it, Libby champions the idea that women can show up as bold, honest, and loyal; bringing all their greatness into the same space.Get Connected!LinkedIn: Ignite Women In InsuranceTwitter: @IgniteNebraskaFacebook: Ignite Women in Insurance NebraskaInstagram: ignitenebraskaWebsite: Ignite! (ignitewomenininsurance.org) This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or Hurrdat Media YouTube channel!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

January 27, 202651 min

A Still Cup Gets Full

Liz Ring Carlson, Vice President of Corporate Communications at Ameritas, is also a Mindset and Leadership Coach and the founder of Mom Boss Method, a platform dedicated to empowering working moms as they balance career and family. She’s currently writing a book that expands on this mission. Liz’s work is deeply personal, rooted in her passion for self-care, intentional leadership, and the belief that taking care of yourself first is essential. In this episode, Liz dives into her Self-Discipline Camp and shares how quiet time helps her “Fill her Still Cup.” She explains how these moments of stillness allow her to focus, set daily intentions, and create space for clarity and purpose.Get Connected!LinkedIn: Ignite Women In InsuranceTwitter: @IgniteNebraskaFacebook: Ignite Women in Insurance NebraskaInstagram: ignitenebraskaWebsite: Ignite! (ignitewomenininsurance.org) This is another Hurrdat Media Production. Hurrdat Media is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat Media Network by going to HurrdatMedia.com or Hurrdat Media YouTube channel!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.