Powerful Women Rising - A Business Podcast for Female Entrepreneurs

Hosted by Melissa Snow - Powerful Women Rising, LLC

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Episodes

137

Latest episode

Jun 2026

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EN-US

About the show

Welcome to Powerful Women Rising, a practical, relationship-driven podcast for female entrepreneurs who want to grow their businesses without following someone else's rulebook. Hosted by Business Relationship Strategist Melissa Snow, each episode focuses on what it really takes to create sustainable business growth - strategic networking, visibility built on trust, thoughtful marketing and making smarter decisions as your business evolves. You'll hear candid conversations with experienced entrepreneurs and experts, along with real-world insights to help you cut through the one-size-fits-all advice, avoid wasting time and money, and build momentum in a way that feels aligned and effective. If you're ready to stop chasing shiny objects and want to grow your business with integrity, clarity, and intention, this podcast is for you.

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June 8, 2026Episode 13330 min

Meta Ads, Funnels and Paid Traffic: What's Working Now w/Samantha Fine

Send us Fan MailBefore you spend another dollar on paid ads, listen to this.Facebook and Instagram ads can feel like a mystery. One person swears they're the key to scaling your business. Someone else says they're a waste of money. Meanwhile, Meta keeps suggesting you boost your post, increase your budget and trust the process. In today's episode, I'm joined by Samantha Fine, Meta Ads and Funnel Strategist, to talk about what's actually working when it comes to paid advertising and why so many business owners end up frustrated, overwhelmed and convinced that ads "don't work."We discuss:How Meta's platform has changed, including the growing role of AI, the Andromeda update and the shift from audience targeting to creative-led advertisingThe role your funnel plays in ad performance and conversionsHow to know if you're actually ready to invest in paid traffic and how oto set an ad budget based on your goalsWhy copying someone else's ad strategy rarely works If you've been wondering whether Meta Ads are worth it, why your results have changed or what needs to be in place before you spend any money on ads, this conversation will save you time, money and a whole lot of frustration.Links & References:Come network with us! CLICK HERE to attend your first PWR Connection Network virtual speed networking event at no cost using the promo code FIRSTTIMEGet Samantha's free Successful Ads Scorecard here: https://www.samanthafinedigital.com/scorecardBook an Audit Call with Samantha: https://link.autopilotclients.io/widget/bookings/ads-audit-samantha-fine-digitalConnect with Samantha on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samanthafinedigitalSupport the showConnect with Your Host!Melissa Snow is a Business Relationship Strategist and the founder of Powerful Women Rising - a business growth ecosystem for female entreprenuers who want to create real momentum through real relationships.Inside the PWR Connect Network and the PWR Business Growth Mastermind, Melissa helps women in business get build relationships, increase visibility and get more referrals without pressure, perfection or performative networking.She's on a mission to change the way women grow their businesses - proving that you can be authentic, values-driven and profitable at the same time.Melissa lives in Colorado with two dogs (Peyton and Ally), three cats (Giorgio, Karma and Betty) and any number of foster kittens. She hates winter, seafood and feet. She loves iced coffee, Taylor Swift, and buying books she'll never read.

May 11, 2026Episode 13224 min

Speaking as a Sales Strategy w/Leisa Reid

Send us Fan MailYou can post every day and still feel invisible.Because content rarely builds trust fast enough with people who don’t know you yet.But the moment someone hears your voice, connects with your story, and experiences your energy in real time, the dynamic shifts.In this episode, I’m joined by Leisa Reid, founder of Get Speaking Gigs Now™ and CEO of The International Speaker Network, to break down how public speaking becomes a practical, client-getting strategy.What Leisa teaches isn’t about chasing big stages or waiting for the “perfect” opportunity. It’s about using speaking as a trust bridge that moves people from interested to ready.In this episode, we cover:How speaking actually drives lead generation and authority, especially for coaches, consultants, and service providers who rely on relationships to grow their business.The pressure to be perfect, the “I’m not qualified” spiral, and why a clear plan matters more than the stage itself.How to start with low-stakes speaking opportunities and build momentumA simple monetization formula to evaluate if speaking is worth your timeIf you’ve been relying on content alone to get visible, this conversation will show you a more direct path to connection, credibility, and clients.Links & References:Come network with us! CLICK HERE to attend your first PWR Connection Network virtual speed networking event at no cost using the promo code FIRSTTIMEWant speaking gigs? Get immediate free access to Leisa's Top 5 Tips to Get More Speaking Gigs Now at www.getspeakinggigsnow.com/tipsConnect with Leisa on LinkedIn, Facebook or InstagramSupport the showConnect with Your Host!Melissa Snow is a Business Relationship Strategist and the founder of Powerful Women Rising - a business growth ecosystem for female entreprenuers who want to create real momentum through real relationships.Inside the PWR Connect Network and the PWR Business Growth Mastermind, Melissa helps women in business get build relationships, increase visibility and get more referrals without pressure, perfection or performative networking.She's on a mission to change the way women grow their businesses - proving that you can be authentic, values-driven and profitable at the same time.Melissa lives in Colorado with two dogs (Peyton and Ally), three cats (Giorgio, Karma and Betty) and any number of foster kittens. She hates winter, seafood and feet. She loves iced coffee, Taylor Swift, and buying books she'll never read.

April 27, 2026Episode 13147 min

Your Marketing Isn't Broken - It's Misaligned w/Laura Hulleman

Send us Fan MailHOT TAKE: You can follow every “proven” strategy and still feel completely off in your marketing. In this episode, I’m joined by Laura Hulleman, Marketing Strategist and longtime member of the PWR Business Growth Mastermind, to break down why so many smart, experienced entrepreneurs get stuck trying to follow marketing advice that was never designed for how they actually think, communicate, or connect.You're not doing it wrong - you're just using strategies that weren't designed for you.We're unpacking:What’s really happening behind a lot of “proven” strategies.How starting with your "ideal client avatar" can backfire.Why forcing yourself into someone else’s framework almost always leads to inconsistent results.How to build your messaging around who you are, what you stand for, and what you naturally do best.The order of operations that saves you time, money, and energy.If your marketing has felt inconsistent, forced, or harder than it should be, this episode will help you fix the problem at the root instead of chasing someone else's strategy.Links & References:Join Laura and I inside the PWR Business Growth Mastermind!Come network with us! CLICK HERE to attend your first PWR Connection Network virtual speed networking event at no cost using the promo code FIRSTTIMEGet Laura's course, Why No One Gets What You Do at no cost using the promo code PODCASTTake the Endotype Quiz at www.endotype.comConnect with Laura on LinkedIn and FacebookSupport the showConnect with Your Host!Melissa Snow is a Business Relationship Strategist and the founder of Powerful Women Rising - a business growth ecosystem for female entreprenuers who want to create real momentum through real relationships.Inside the PWR Connect Network and the PWR Business Growth Mastermind, Melissa helps women in business get build relationships, increase visibility and get more referrals without pressure, perfection or performative networking.She's on a mission to change the way women grow their businesses - proving that you can be authentic, values-driven and profitable at the same time.Melissa lives in Colorado with two dogs (Peyton and Ally), three cats (Giorgio, Karma and Betty) and any number of foster kittens. She hates winter, seafood and feet. She loves iced coffee, Taylor Swift, and buying books she'll never read.

April 13, 2026Episode 13031 min

The Real Reason You Can't Stay Consistent w/Michelle DeNio

Send us Fan MailMaybe you don’t need more discipline - you just need a better strategy.In this episode, Business Strategist Michelle DeNio digs into the messy middle of business growth - that stage after startup but before scale, where revenue plateaus and the tactics that worked before stop delivering. This is where most entrepreneurs double down on “doing more” and burn out instead of building something sustainable.And although this conversation centers around ADHD-friendly strategies, it's actually for anyone who has struggled to stay consistent, follow through on plans, or make traditional business strategies actually work in real life.It's usually not because they lack discipline, but because they’re trying to force strategies that don’t align with how they actually operate.Michelle shares a more effective approach. One that works with your brain instead of against it.In this episode, we cover: • How dopamine, hyperfocus, and demand avoidance impact execution • Why traditional 90-day plans often fail (and what to use instead) • The role of data when your brain wants to rely on emotion • The concept of “visibility seasons” vs. “sales seasons” • Simple ways to build momentum without overwhelming yourselfYou do not need an ADHD diagnosis for this to resonate.If you’ve ever struggled to stay consistent, follow through, or make someone else’s strategy work, this episode will show you a smarter way to grow.Links & References:Come network with us! CLICK HERE to attend your first PWR Connection Network virtual speed networking event at no cost!Learn more about Michelle DeNio here: www.michelledenioconsulting.comFollow Michelle on Threads, Facebook or LinkedInSupport the showConnect with Your Host!Melissa Snow is a Business Relationship Strategist and the founder of Powerful Women Rising - a business growth ecosystem for female entreprenuers who want to create real momentum through real relationships.Inside the PWR Connect Network and the PWR Business Growth Mastermind, Melissa helps women in business get build relationships, increase visibility and get more referrals without pressure, perfection or performative networking.She's on a mission to change the way women grow their businesses - proving that you can be authentic, values-driven and profitable at the same time.Melissa lives in Colorado with two dogs (Peyton and Ally), three cats (Giorgio, Karma and Betty) and any number of foster kittens. She hates winter, seafood and feet. She loves iced coffee, Taylor Swift, and buying books she'll never read.

March 30, 2026Episode 12933 min

Why the Customer Experience Is Your Best Referral Strategy w/Dani Whitestone

Send us Fan MailYour next level of growth might not require more marketing - it might require a better customer experience.In this episode, I’m joined by Customer Experience and Messaging Strategist Dani Whitestone to talk about a growth strategy most entrepreneurs overlook: how people actually feel every step of the way when working with you.Because referrals, renewals, and repeat sales don’t happen by accident. They happen by design.We break down what the “customer journey” really is (in normal human language), where trust quietly erodes in your process, and how small, intentional upgrades can increase revenue without adding more work.We also discuss: • The four R’s of business growth: Revenue, Retention, Referrals, and Relationships • How to create meaningful connection points in your customer experience (and why even the little things matter!) • How to balance automation with real human touch • Simple first steps to audit and improve your client journeyIf you want clients who stay longer, refer you more often, and genuinely enjoy working with you, this conversation will shift how you think about growth.Links & References:Come network with us! CLICK HERE to attend your first PWR Connection Network virtual speed networking event at no cost!Get Dani's free "People First, Profits Follow" guide: https://www.daniwhitestone.com/peopleWatch the Unreasonable Hospitality TED Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bwcyXcOpWVs&t=362s Join one of Dani's 1-1 Virtual Networking Events: https://www.daniwhitestone.com/networking Connect with Dani on LinkedIn or InstagramSupport the showConnect with Your Host!Melissa Snow is a Business Relationship Strategist and the founder of Powerful Women Rising - a business growth ecosystem for female entreprenuers who want to create real momentum through real relationships.Inside the PWR Connect Network and the PWR Business Growth Mastermind, Melissa helps women in business get build relationships, increase visibility and get more referrals without pressure, perfection or performative networking.She's on a mission to change the way women grow their businesses - proving that you can be authentic, values-driven and profitable at the same time.Melissa lives in Colorado with two dogs (Peyton and Ally), three cats (Giorgio, Karma and Betty) and any number of foster kittens. She hates winter, seafood and feet. She loves iced coffee, Taylor Swift, and buying books she'll never read.

March 16, 2026Episode 12826 min

Community-Powered Growth: A Smarter Way to Market w/Osayi Lasisi

Send us Fan MailIf marketing feels heavy, complicated or inauthentic, this conversation is for you.In this episode, I’m joined by marketing strategist Osayi Lasisi to talk about what she calls "community-powered growth" and why it's the most sustainable method for generating consistent leads.If you’re tired of chasing trends, forcing yourself onto platforms you hate, or wondering why your visibility isn’t converting, this conversation will feel like a deep exhale.We talk about:What "community-powered growth" actually means (and why it works)Osayi's FOCUS Framework - from foundation to simple systemsChoosing visibility strategies that match your energyHow to start collaborating (even before you have a big audience)The long game of networking and how seeds planted today can pay off months or even years laterIf marketing has started to feel overwhelming or exhausting, this episode will help you rethink what growth can look like when it’s rooted in relationships, clarity, and consistency.Because visibility compounds through people.Links and Resources:Come network with us! CLICK HERE to attend your first PWR Connection Network virtual speed networking event at no cost!Learn more about Osayi on her website and book a free strategy session: https://www.osayilasisi.comConnect with Osayi on Instagram or LinkedInSupport the showConnect with Your Host!Melissa Snow is a Business Relationship Strategist and the founder of Powerful Women Rising - a business growth ecosystem for female entreprenuers who want to create real momentum through real relationships.Inside the PWR Connect Network and the PWR Business Growth Mastermind, Melissa helps women in business get build relationships, increase visibility and get more referrals without pressure, perfection or performative networking.She's on a mission to change the way women grow their businesses - proving that you can be authentic, values-driven and profitable at the same time.Melissa lives in Colorado with two dogs (Peyton and Ally), three cats (Giorgio, Karma and Betty) and any number of foster kittens. She hates winter, seafood and feet. She loves iced coffee, Taylor Swift, and buying books she'll never read.

March 3, 2026Episode 12744 min

Keep, Swap, Ditch: A Real-Time Business Tool Audit w/Mallory Musante

Send us Fan MailBehind every successful business is a series of strategic decisions no one talks about. In this conversation, Fractional CMO Mallory Musante and I say those quiet parts out loud. We're giving you a peek behind the curtain at how we decide what tools to keep, swap, and cancel this year - and why.This is more than an interview. It's an open, honest conversation between business besties about how we evaluate tools based on cost, capacity, simplicity, and actual workflow fit.We talk through what earned its spot (like Canva, ClickUp, HoneyBook, and ChatGPT), what got cut, and why consolidation often creates more momentum than adding something new.We also discuss:How to tell if a tool is actually driving growth or just keeping you busyUsing AI as a thought partner without outsourcing your voiceReducing meetings and increasing productivity with async tools like Fathom and LoomSimplifying your tech stack without slowing your marketingWhen to stay with your "comfort zone" tools and it's time to level upIf you’ve ever wondered whether there's a simpler way to run your business or you're curious how experienced entrepreneurs make real operational decisions, this episode will help you audit your tools with more clarity and confidence.Links & References:Come network with us! CLICK HERE to attend your first PWR Connection Network virtual speed networking event at no cost!Learn more about Mallory Musante and her work here: www.mallorymusante.comConnect with Mallory on Instagram, Threads or LinkedInSupport the showConnect with Your Host!Melissa Snow is a Business Relationship Strategist and the founder of Powerful Women Rising - a business growth ecosystem for female entreprenuers who want to create real momentum through real relationships.Inside the PWR Connect Network and the PWR Business Growth Mastermind, Melissa helps women in business get build relationships, increase visibility and get more referrals without pressure, perfection or performative networking.She's on a mission to change the way women grow their businesses - proving that you can be authentic, values-driven and profitable at the same time.Melissa lives in Colorado with two dogs (Peyton and Ally), three cats (Giorgio, Karma and Betty) and any number of foster kittens. She hates winter, seafood and feet. She loves iced coffee, Taylor Swift, and buying books she'll never read.

February 16, 2026Episode 12626 min

Tax Planning for Small Business Owners w/Mike Jesowshek

Send us Fan MailTaxes don’t have to be confusing, scary, or something you only think about in a panic every March.In this episode of the Powerful Women Rising Podcast, I’m joined by Mike Jesowshek - CPA and founder of TaxElm, to discuss how small business owners can stop reacting to taxes and start making simple, legal moves in advance that lead to more money in their pockets.We dive into:The difference between tax preparation and tax planning (and why it matters)When to start tax planning as a new or growing business ownerCommon deductions (like home office, vehicle, phone and internet) made simpleThe money saving power of pre-tax vs. after-tax spending Mike provides practical examples that apply to most small business owners and shares tools and resources that will help you keep things simple.Links & References:Come network with us! CLICK HERE to attend your first PWR Connection Network virtual speed networking event at no cost!Listen to the Small Business Tax Savings PodcastBuy the Small Business Tax Savings HandbookFollow Mike on YouTube, Instagram or TikTokSupport the showConnect with Your Host!Melissa Snow is a Business Relationship Strategist and the founder of Powerful Women Rising - a business growth ecosystem for female entreprenuers who want to create real momentum through real relationships.Inside the PWR Connect Network and the PWR Business Growth Mastermind, Melissa helps women in business get build relationships, increase visibility and get more referrals without pressure, perfection or performative networking.She's on a mission to change the way women grow their businesses - proving that you can be authentic, values-driven and profitable at the same time.Melissa lives in Colorado with two dogs (Peyton and Ally), three cats (Giorgio, Karma and Betty) and any number of foster kittens. She hates winter, seafood and feet. She loves iced coffee, Taylor Swift, and buying books she'll never read.

February 6, 2026Episode 12528 min

Soft Leadership: How Women Lead, Heal and Grow Sustainably w/Erica Valenzuela and LaKisha Mosley

Send us Fan MailLeadership that ignores mental and emotional health is expensive -personally and professionally. In this episode, I’m joined by two 2025 PWR Impact Award winners who are redefining what strength, resilience and sustainable growth look like for women in busness.Erica Valenzuela, winner of the Resilience Award, is the creator of E-Motion, a space that blends rage, release, movement, and reflection to support emotional health. LaKisha Mosely, PWR Podcast Guest of the Year, is known as the Soft Simple CEO and helps women build profitable businesses without sacrificing their mental health. We discuss:How emotional healing creates the resilience and clarity required to succeed in business.Why mental health is the blueprint for execution, not an afterthought, and rest is a strategy, not a reward.Rest as a strategy, not a reward."High-functioning burnout" and the warning signs most women ignoreBuilding your network before you need it, taking your own advice, setting boundaries, and more...Together, we explore the long game of business growth and how capacity, community, and trust create momentum no shortcut ever will.If you want growth that feels steady instead of exhausting, this conversation offers practical tools and a more sustainable way to lead.Links and References:Learn more about all the 2025 Powerful Women Rising Impact Award winners Connect with other female entrepreneurs inside the PWR Connection NetworkLearn more about LaKisha Mosley and connect with her on InstagramProtect Your Peace - Why Mental Health is Your Business's Competetive Advantage - LaKisha's award-winning episode on Powerful Women RisingLearn more about E-Motion Fitness and connect with Erica on InstagramSupport the showConnect with Your Host!Melissa Snow is a Business Relationship Strategist and the founder of Powerful Women Rising - a business growth ecosystem for female entreprenuers who want to create real momentum through real relationships.Inside the PWR Connect Network and the PWR Business Growth Mastermind, Melissa helps women in business get build relationships, increase visibility and get more referrals without pressure, perfection or performative networking.She's on a mission to change the way women grow their businesses - proving that you can be authentic, values-driven and profitable at the same time.Melissa lives in Colorado with two dogs (Peyton and Ally), three cats (Giorgio, Karma and Betty) and any number of foster kittens. She hates winter, seafood and feet. She loves iced coffee, Taylor Swift, and buying books she'll never read.

February 4, 2026Episode 12438 min

Stronger Together: How Collaboration Creates Sustainable Growth w/Emily Garcia, Corina Carillo and Ashley Anderson

Send us Fan MailThe fastest way to grow your business might be helping someone else win. So many business owners feel pressure to chase visibility, revenue, and recognition - often at the expense of community, connection, and even themselves.In this episode, I’m joined by three more of the 2025 Powerful Women Rising Impact Award winners who prove that relationships, generosity, and service aren’t just feel-good ideas, they’re powerful growth strategies.Corina Carrillo, Connector of the Year, Ashley Anderson, winner of the Business for Good Award, and Emily Garcia, Empowerment Award winner, share how they’ve built thriving businesses by putting other people first — and backing that philosophy up with simple, sustainable systems.We also talk about:How connection and belonging drive referrals and long-term growthCollaboration over competition as a growth strategy, not just a feel-good phraseUsing community events to build trust and shared momentumMoving past imposter syndrome through relationships and mentorshipLinks & References:Learn more about all the 2025 Powerful Women Rising Impact Award winners Connect with other female entrepreneurs inside the PWR Connection NetworkLearn more about Emily on her website or connect with her on InstagramFollow Ashley and Anderson Designs on InstagramConnect with Corina on Instagram or check out her website Support the showConnect with Your Host!Melissa Snow is a Business Relationship Strategist and the founder of Powerful Women Rising - a business growth ecosystem for female entreprenuers who want to create real momentum through real relationships.Inside the PWR Connect Network and the PWR Business Growth Mastermind, Melissa helps women in business get build relationships, increase visibility and get more referrals without pressure, perfection or performative networking.She's on a mission to change the way women grow their businesses - proving that you can be authentic, values-driven and profitable at the same time.Melissa lives in Colorado with two dogs (Peyton and Ally), three cats (Giorgio, Karma and Betty) and any number of foster kittens. She hates winter, seafood and feet. She loves iced coffee, Taylor Swift, and buying books she'll never read.