Smart Women Talk

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565

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Jun 2026

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About the show

Your energy, beliefs, and support systems will often affect your ability to attract vibrant wealth, health, and happiness into your life. Host, Katana Abbott, CFP® CSA, CSSCS, Retirement Income Coach, founder of The Midlife Millionaire® Solution and the Smart Women Companies is here to address cutting-edge topics and bring you bestselling authors and thought-leaders, so you can live with more purpose, passion, and prosperity! www.JoinSmartWomen.com Follow Smart Women Talk on your favorite podcast platform! You can also WATCH Smart Women Talk on Smart Women TV @ www.smartwomentv.com Website: http://www.smartwomensempowerment.org/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SmartWomensEmpowerment/ Twitter: @SmartWomEmpower

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June 6, 202638 min

Reinventing Work: How Women are Leading the New Economy with Corinne Goble

What will work look like in the next chapter of your life? And where do women fit into today’s rapidly changing economy?In this fascinating conversation, Katana Abbott speaks with Corinne Goble, CEO of the Association of Women Business Centers, about the growing opportunities for women entrepreneurs — and the critical mistakes many women make when starting and scaling a business.Corinne shares her remarkable personal journey from growing up in a motorcycle gang environment to leading a national organization supporting women-owned businesses across America. Together, she and Katana explore how women are redefining entrepreneurship, innovation, and leadership in today’s economy.They discuss emerging opportunities in AI, the care economy, social impact businesses, technology-driven entrepreneurship, and why women may be uniquely positioned to thrive in this next era of business.You’ll also hear practical advice about:Why business planning matters more than passion aloneThe biggest funding mistakes women entrepreneurs makeHow personal credit can impact future business growthThe difference between creating a business versus creating a jobWhy understanding your numbers builds confidenceHow technology is lowering barriers for women entrepreneursWhy the “care economy” may become one of the biggest growth sectors of the futureCorinne also introduces listeners to Hope2Women.org, a national gateway connecting women to coaching, training, funding resources, and Women’s Business Centers across the country. Whether you’re launching a business, considering a second-act career, or simply curious about where the economy is heading, this episode offers powerful insight, inspiration, and practical wisdom for women ready to build what’s next. Corinne Goble is the CEO of the Association of Women Business Centers, a national organization supporting a network of more than 140 Women’s Business Centers across the United States. With a background spanning entrepreneurship, corporate leadership, and nonprofit advocacy, Corinne is passionate about helping women launch, grow, and scale successful businesses. She is a national voice on women’s entrepreneurship, innovation, access to capital, and the future of women in the economy. You can learn more about Corrine at Hope2Women.org. Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. The views, opinions, experiences, and recommendations expressed by the host and guests are not intended as financial, investment, legal, tax, business, medical, or other professional advice. Every individual's circumstances are unique, and listeners should consult qualified professionals before making decisions related to their finances, business ventures, investments, health, or legal matters. Smart Women Talk is designed to inspire conversation, learning, and personal growth, and any actions taken based on the content of this program are solely the responsibility of the listener.

May 13, 202622 min

Thriving in the Second Half of Life with Maddy Dychtwald

What if aging isn’t about slowing down—but about stepping into one of the most powerful and purposeful stages of life?In this episode of Smart Women Talk, Katana Abbott welcomes longevity expert, author, and co-founder of Age Wave, Maddy Dychtwald, for a conversation about what it really means to live well—not just longer.Drawing from decades of research and her new book Ageless Aging, Maddy shares how women can take a more holistic approach to longevity—focusing not only on lifespan, but on healthspan and brainspan. In this episode, you’ll discover:The difference between lifespan and healthspan—and why it mattersWhy women live longer but often face more health challengesThe powerful role of purpose in longevity and well-beingSimple daily habits that support brain health, energy, and vitalityWhy connection, mindset, sleep, and movement all play a critical roleThis inspiring and practical conversation offers a fresh perspective on aging—one that empowers women to make small, intentional choices that can lead to a longer, healthier, and more fulfilling life.You can learn more about Maddy at MaddyDychtwald.com.The information shared in this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. The host and guests are not providing diagnosis or treatment recommendations for any individual. Individual health needs vary, and listeners should consult their healthcare provider before making any medical decisions or changes to their care. Reliance on any information provided in this episode is solely at your own risk.

May 8, 202636 min

Reclaiming Your Vitality with Dr. Jerrold H. Weinberg

After decades of confusion and controversy around menopause, what’s actually true about hormones—and what’s not?In this episode of Smart Women Talk, Katana Abbott sits down with Dr. Jerrold H. Weinberg, OB-GYN and author of Menopause Mended, to explore what really happens during menopause and why so many women feel like they’ve lost a part of themselves.With over 25 years of clinical experience and a focus on menopause care, Dr. Weinberg shares his perspective on hormone health, the role of bioidentical hormone therapy, and how hormonal changes impact not just the body—but also the brain, mood, and overall quality of life.In this conversation, you’ll learn:Why menopause symptoms go far beyond hot flashesThe difference between traditional and bioidentical hormone therapyHow hormones affect brain function, sleep, mood, and energyThe connection between menopause and bone healthWhy many women feel “off”—and what options may be availableThis is an informative and thought-provoking conversation designed to help women better understand their bodies, ask informed questions, and explore what support may be right for them.You can learn more about Dr. Weinberg at JHWeinbergMD.com.The information shared in this podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. The host and guests are not providing diagnosis or treatment recommendations for any individual. Individual health needs vary, and listeners should consult their healthcare provider before making any medical decisions or changes to their care. Reliance on any information provided in this episode is solely at your own risk.

April 25, 202630 min

Preserving Women's Wisdom with Kristin Thomas

What if everything you’ve built—your ideas, your leadership, your voice—didn’t just disappear once the moment passed?In this episode of Smart Women Talk, host Katana Abbott sits down with Kristin Thomas, founder of Marble Collective, an innovative AI-powered platform designed to preserve, connect, and amplify the work of women leaders.After two decades in luxury real estate, Kristin saw firsthand how even the most accomplished women struggle to stay visible in a world that demands constant self-promotion. Her solution? A centralized platform that captures the full body of a woman’s work—podcasts, interviews, articles, and more—making it easy to discover, follow, and learn from inspiring leaders across industries.Together, they explore:Why women’s leadership is often overlooked or lost over timeThe hidden cost of constant self-promotionHow mentorship can be scaled to reach thousands—not just a select fewThe role of AI in reshaping visibility, influence, and accessWhy connection—not competition—is the key to advancing womenIf you’ve ever struggled to stay visible, find mentors, or cut through the noise, this conversation will completely shift how you think about leadership and learning.🔗 Learn more: marblecollective.comAbout Kristin Thomas:Kristin Thomas is the founder of Marble Collective, an AI-powered platform designed to preserve, amplify, and elevate women’s leadership. Backed by more than 300 women leaders, Marble is creating a new way to make women’s work and impact more visible and enduring.A seasoned entrepreneur, Kristin spent two decades in real estate, launching her own investment business before founding a luxury brokerage in Manhattan that was later acquired. She went on to serve as Director of Sales, was an early agent at Compass, and joined the advisory board of the Hudson Advisory Team, one of New York’s top residential real estate groups.Kristin also serves on the boards of Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory and Youth & Family Counseling Agency. Through Marble, she is building a global platform to ensure women’s stories, leadership, and impact are seen, shared, and remembered.You can connect with Kristin at MarbleCollective.com.

April 12, 202630 min

Turning Experience into Opportunity with Katie Fortunato

What if the experience and connections you’ve built over a lifetime are actually the key to unlocking your next opportunity?In a world where job boards feel like a black hole and AI is changing the rules overnight, it’s easy to wonder where you fit—and how to move forward with confidence.In this episode of Smart Women Talk, Katana sits down with Katie Fortunato, co-founder of Higher Innovations, to cut through the noise and reveal what’s really driving opportunity today—and how you can use it to your advantage.You’ll discover:Why most jobs are never posted—and how to access the hidden marketHow your network can open doors faster than any résumé ever willThe real role of mentorship—and how to step into it at any stageWhat AI actually means for your career (and how to stay relevant)Simple ways to turn your experience into meaningful work and incomeThis isn’t about starting over. It’s about building forward—with everything you already have.Tune in now and start seeing your next chapter in a whole new way.Katie Fortunato is Co-founder and EVP of Platform Innovation and Strategy at Hire Innovations, a global leader in human-centered AI talent technologies. She drives innovation across a portfolio of brands—including Recruitics, Talivity, and Jobstream—helping the world’s largest organizations modernize hiring while keeping people at the center.In 2023, Katie launched Talivity, one of the fastest-growing communities for people leaders, and established the company’s Innovation Lab. Her latest venture, Jobstream (2026), is pioneering a new category in job discovery—connecting talent and opportunity through social platforms with transparent creator monetization.Prior to entrepreneurship, Katie built brand experiences for MTV, AOL, and The Wall Street Journal, where she led the publication’s first live video brand experience and developed strategic growth partnerships to drive new revenue streams.Katie also serves as President of the Onward & Upward Foundation and sits on the Board of the American Red Cross Metro NY North Chapter. She splits her time between New York City and Greenwich, Connecticut.You can connect with Katie at GetJobStream.com.

March 21, 202627 min

Is it Time to Eat More Plants? with Vicki Brett-Gach

Is it Time to Eat More Plants? with Vicki Brett-GachWith so many conflicting diet trends—from keto to carnivore to plant-based—it’s no wonder people feel overwhelmed about what to eat.In this episode of Smart Women Talk, host Katana Abbott sits down with certified vegan lifestyle coach, culinary instructor, and author Vicki Brett-Gach to cut through the noise and explore a simple question: Should we be eating more plants? Vicki shares her personal journey from a traditional American diet to a plant-based lifestyle, inspired by her family’s health history and a desire to improve long-term wellness.Together, they dive into:The real impact of food on chronic disease and inflammationWhy dairy (especially cheese) can be surprisingly addictiveThe role of gut health and the microbiome in overall wellnessWhat “whole food plant-based” actually meansThe most nutrient-dense foods you should be eating (hint: greens and beans)How to transition your diet—without overwhelmPractical tips for eating healthy at home, while traveling, or dining outWhether you're plant-curious or ready to make a change, this conversation will give you clarity, confidence, and a realistic path forward—one plate at a time.Vicki Brett-Gach is a Master-Certified Vegan Lifestyle Coach, plant-based culinary instructor, certified personal chef, and author of The Plant-Based for Life Cookbook. She holds certifications in Wellness Counseling from Cornell University, Plant-Based Nutrition from the T. Colin Campbell Center for Nutrition Studies, and Culinary Coaching through Harvard Medical School and the Institute of Lifestyle Medicine.Vicki’s recipes and expertise have been featured in Forks Over Knives Magazine, Health Science, VegWorld Magazine, and Global Vegan Magazine. Through her coaching and classes, she helps individuals and groups transition to a whole-food, plant-based lifestyle with practical, approachable strategies that support long-term health.You can connect with Vicki and explore her recipes at her popular blog, Ann Arbor Vegan Kitchen.

March 8, 202629 min

Healthy Bones for Life with Margie Bissinger, MS, PT, CHC

What does it really take to have healthy bones for life?In this episode of Smart Women Talk, Katana Abbott sits down with physical therapist, integrative health coach, happiness trainer, and author Margie Bissinger, MS, PT, CHC to talk about bone health, osteoporosis, osteopenia, and the lifestyle choices that can make a real difference.Margie explains the difference between osteopenia and osteoporosis, what bone density scores really mean, and why bone health is about much more than a diagnosis or a number on a test. She also shares practical guidance on nutrition, calcium, vitamin D, magnesium, vitamin K2, protein, stress, and the types of exercise that can help support strong bones over time.Katana also opens up about her own experience with osteopenia, fractures, bone density testing, and choosing a more proactive path through diet, exercise, and research. In this conversation, you’ll learn:The difference between osteopenia and osteoporosisWhat a bone density test can — and cannot — tell youWhy leafy greens, minerals, and protein matter for bone healthThe role of stress in bone lossWhat an osteoporosis exercise program should includeWhy strength training, weight-bearing exercise, and balance work are so importantWhat to know before taking supplementsThis is an empowering conversation for women who want to better understand their bone health and take practical steps to stay strong, active, and independent for years to come.Margie Bissinger, MS, PT, CHC is a physical therapist, integrative health coach, happiness trainer, and author. She teaches an online program to give people the tools to naturally achieve optimal bone health. Margie is the host of the Happy Bones, Happy Life Podcast. Margie created The Happy Me, Happy Life online program to help people increase their happiness level, energy, and overall health. She has been featured in the New York Times, Menopause Management, OB GYN News and contributed to numerous health and fitness books.Disclaimer: The information shared in this episode of Smart Women Talk is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult your physician or qualified healthcare provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition, treatment options, or before starting any new health regimen. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you heard in this program.

February 22, 202627 min

From Calling to Impact: Choosing the Nonprofit Path to Make a Difference with Alexis Ramsey

Have you ever felt an inner pull to do something more meaningful—but didn’t know where to start?On this episode of Smart Women Talk, we’re joined by Alexis Ramsey, CEO of We Care Foster Care, for a powerful conversation about purpose, service, and choosing impact over comfort.Alexis shares how her global career in education led her back home—and into nonprofit leadership—where she’s working to break the foster care–to–prison cycle and change lives through education, housing, and workforce development.If you’re in midlife and feeling the nudge to step into something bigger, this episode will meet you right where you are.You’ll hear:How a lifelong commitment to education led Alexis to foster care advocacyWhy midlife is often the moment purpose gets louderThe hard truths about nonprofit leadership (yes, it’s still a business)What it takes to break the foster care–to–prison pipelineWhy fear isn’t a stop sign—it’s part of the pathIf you’ve ever wanted your money to reflect what matters most to you, this episode is a must-listen.Alexis Ramsey is the CEO and Executive Director of We Care Foster Care, where she leads efforts to support youth in foster care through education, stability, and long-term opportunity.An educator for more than 25 years, Alexis began her career in Detroit Public Schools before spending two decades teaching internationally in Malawi, Africa; Beijing, China; and Hanoi, Vietnam. Her work abroad included roles with USAID, the United Nations International School, and multiple international schools, serving students from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds.Throughout her career, Alexis has helped write two national curricula and has remained deeply committed to a child’s right to quality education. Her work centers on the belief that education must support the whole child—academically, emotionally, and socially—and serve as a foundation for breaking cycles of poverty and instability.Connect with Alexis at WeCareFosterCare.org.

February 8, 202634 min

How Anyone Can Invest in the Change They Want to See in the World with Marcia Dawood

What if your money could do more than sit in a retirement account?This month on Smart Women Talk, we’re joined by Marcia Dawood, global leader in angel investing and author of Doing Good While Doing Well, for a conversation that will completely change how you think about investing.Marcia breaks down what angel investing actually is (no finance degree required), why women are uniquely wired to be exceptional investors, and how anyone—yes, even with as little as $100—can invest in ideas, founders, and innovations they care about.You’ll learn:What angel investing really means (and how it’s different from Shark Tank)Why women founders receive only ~2% of venture capital—and how that can changeHow to start investing with your values, not just your walletCreative ways to invest using donor-advised funds, IRAs, and equity crowdfundingSimple, low-risk first steps to explore this world without feeling overwhelmedIf you’ve ever wanted your money to reflect what matters most to you, this episode is a must-listen.Marcia Dawood is an early-stage investor and national leader in expanding women’s access to capital, now championing a bold new message with her forthcoming book, Unapologetic Wealth: Rewrite Your Money Story from Any Beginning (March 10, 2026).As Chair of the SEC’s Small Business Capital Formation Advisory Committee, a venture partner with Mindshift Capital, and chair emeritus of the Angel Capital Association, she has helped rewrite the rules of who gets to build and benefit from innovation.She founded the ACA’s Growing Women’s Capital Group and has invested in more than 50 early-stage companies and funds, always pushing for diversity, impact, and financial agency. Marcia is also the award-winning author of Do Good While Doing Well and a TEDx speaker whose work inspires women to step into wealth with confidence and zero apology.Connect with Marcia at MarciaDawood.com.DISCLAIMER: The information Smart Women's Empowerment and Smart Women Talk provides is for general informational purposes only. All information is provided in good faith; however, we make no representation or warranty of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability, or completeness of any information. UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCE SHALL WE HAVE ANY LIABILITY TO YOU FOR ANY LOSS OR DAMAGE OF ANY KIND INCURRED AS A RESULT OF THE USE OF OR RELIANCE ON ANY INFORMATION PROVIDED SOLELY AT YOUR OWN RISK. We cannot and do not offer financial and/or medical advice. The information is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Accordingly, we encourage you to consult with the appropriate professionals before taking any actions based on such information.

January 25, 202639 min

Dive Deep, Live Fully: Unlocking the Wonder in Indonesia's Hidden Waters with Alexis Nataf

Have you ever felt the pull to do something bold—but hesitated? In this episode of Smart Women Talk, host Katana Abbott sits down with Alexis Nataf, founder of Konjo Cruising Indonesia, to explore what happens when you say yes to adventure. Alexis leads intimate dive and expedition cruises through Indonesia’s hidden waters—from Raja Ampat, the epicenter of global marine biodiversity, to remote islands few travelers will ever see. But this conversation goes far beyond travel. It’s about courage, transformation, and reclaiming your sense of wonder—at any age.You’ll learn:Why Indonesia is one of the most biodiverse places on EarthWhat life is really like aboard traditional wooden sailing vesselsHow immersive sea travel can spark deep personal transformationWhy women traveling solo (including over 60!) are thriving on these expeditionsHow facing fear—underwater and above—can change how you liveThis is an invitation to dive deeper—into the ocean and into yourself.🔗 Explore Konjo Cruising Indonesia: https://konjocruisingindonesia.com/🎥 Watch breathtaking expedition footage by Sam Indowild: https://www.youtube.com/@IndoWild