Ignite Podcast

Hosted by Cara Kirsch

Business

Website RSS feed

Episodes

Latest episode

Oct 2026

Language

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) ]]>

Listen to episodes

34 recent

October 13, 202658 min

Protector of the Sheet

In this episode of the Ignite Women in Business podcast, Amy Oetter, Director of Service Operations and Workplace Solutions at Mutual of Omaha, shares her unique leadership journey from serving with the Omaha Police Department to leading teams in the corporate world. It was during her time in law enforcement that she developed a deep appreciation for leadership, resilience, and the impact leaders have on those they serve. Following a career-ending injury, Amy transitioned into the business world and joined Mutual of Omaha with a simple but powerful message: "I can lead if you give me an opportunity." She has since built her career around empowering others, encouraging her team members to show up authentically and embrace their strengths. A self-described glass-half-full person, Amy finds great joy in supporting and developing her team, many of whom become an important part of her life. And to round out our conversation, we discovered a shared love for French Bulldogs, including Amy's beloved pups, Wicklow and Copper. 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 .

September 8, 202634 min

Leading from the Heart

Sandy Spady is the CEO of Power Up Leadership Coaching and Consulting, the founder of the Women with Voices conference, a keynote speaker, and a podcast producer dedicated to helping women step confidently into their leadership potential. Through her work, she creates environments where women feel seen, supported, and empowered to pursue personal and professional growth. With a natural ability to connect, Sandy leads with heart in everything she does. Her approach to branding and communication is grounded in authenticity; she believes that when women understand and embrace who they truly are, they can influence their communities with greater clarity and purpose. Sandy’s passion for elevating others is evident in the coaching programs she designs, the events she curates, and the conversations she sparks on stages and through her podcast. 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 .

August 4, 202644 min

Who would my younger self run to?

Quinn Texmo serves as the community and citizenship manager at Turner Construction, where she uses her many strengths to support and elevate women in every space she enters. Her natural talent lies in communicating in a way that truly resonates, helping others receive information clearly and with a sense of purpose. Quinn is a proud dog mom and someone who has pushed through her fear of failure by embracing risk and showing up as her authentic self. She loves to travel, and her personal motto reflects her adventurous approach to life “fuck it, book it.” Her mood is instantly elevated when she clicks the buy button on her favorite travel websites. 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 .

July 23, 202649 min

The Fifty Flex

In this episode of the Ignite Women in Business podcast, Christy Johnston, Founder of Magnetic Cultures, shares how organizations can navigate today's workforce challenges and create cultures where people thrive. Throughout her career and personal journey, Christy has learned that authenticity is the foundation of strong leadership and meaningful workplace culture, making her a trusted partner to the employers she serves. As the middle daughter growing up, Christy was often encouraged to think critically, solve problems, and find her own path. Now, at 50, she reflects on the lessons that have shaped her success and reveals the secrets behind her "Fifty Flex" mindset, offering insights on resilience, growth, and embracing every stage of life. 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 .

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 Insurance Twitter: @IgniteNebraska Facebook: Ignite Women in Insurance Nebraska Instagram: ignitenebraska Website: 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 Insurance Twitter: @IgniteNebraska Facebook: Ignite Women in Insurance Nebraska Instagram: ignitenebraska Website: 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 Insurance Twitter: @IgniteNebraska Facebook: Ignite Women in Insurance Nebraska Instagram: ignitenebraska Website: 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 Insurance Twitter: @IgniteNebraska Facebook: Ignite Women in Insurance Nebraska Instagram: ignitenebraska Website: 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 Insurance Twitter: @IgniteNebraska Facebook: Ignite Women in Insurance Nebraska Instagram: ignitenebraska Website: 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 .