Divas, Diamonds, and Dollars - A Sassy, Powerful, Lady Boss Podcast!

Have you lost that loving feeling... for your business? You may be asking yourself if you should keep going or if it's time to pivot, especially if you're in a bit of a slump. On the other hand, you may just need to reboot and get back to basics. Follow the five habits we are going to share today and get back on track! Lean in and listen now to today's Diamondette episode and be sure to share with a friend!

Have you ever dreamed of being an author but still haven't taken the plunge? Today we are pulling back the curtain on what it takes to write your first book and have it published. Lean in and learn with Cecelia Benford, DARC LLC, Leadership Coach, Mentor, and now, author. Our conversation will be part interview and part how-to so you get the best of both worlds.

Contact Cecelia directly to pre-order her book or to learn more about her leadership coaching.

Instagram: @benfordcecelia

Facebook: @Cecelia Benford

Website:  LeadershipCoachingMentoringConnections.com

Linkedin.com/in/cecelia-benford

As we celebrate Small Business Week, we are going to take the opportunity to walk you through a Quarterly Check Up for your business. Business success is based on having systems in place to generate repeatable results. Listen to this episode to learn the questions you should be asking, and steps you should be taking to continue growing successfully.

You work hard for your money so it's very critical that you educate yourself about financial scams and pitfalls that might impact your financial well-being. We'll be providing tips on how to spot and avoid common scams that can derail your retirement plans or empty your coffers if you're not careful!

A recent headline bemoaned "I'm going to die in my cubicle." Does this sound like you? Are you worried you might outlive your income? Wellness, technology and frankly, good genes are all contributors to greater longevity. How, then, do we ensure we don't outlive our money? Grab a cuppa and listen now to make sure you are better prepared for retirement and beyond.

Wealth is created from the neck up. You already have everything you need to make multiple streams of revenue. People will pay you for what you know, as long as it helps them achieve their goal, solve their problem, or make a notable transformation. Coaching and consulting offer the lowest barrier of entry so the question is, are you using your know-how to the fullest extent possible?

Has the economy got you down? Have you had to choose between putting money away for retirement and spending money to enjoy your life today? Although tomorrow is promised to no one, ideally we will enjoy our todays and be more comfortable as we look forward to our tomorrows. Income diversification is critical in achieving financial security and flexibility. Listen now and take good notes!

Have you given any thought to how your habits off the clock impact your time on the clock? Leadership is a whole-person undertaking.

The Connection: Lifestyle and Leadership

Picture this: you're on the fast track to becoming the ultimate leader, but somehow, you keep hitting roadblocks. Ever wonder why? Well, it might just come down to how your lifestyle habits mesh (or clash) with your career goals. Let's dive into why that is.

When you work hard, you want to play hard, or sometimes treat yourself to a "little something special." We're all for rewarding ourselves and excellent self-care, but there fine line between the occasional treat and overspending that detracts from your bright future. Listen now and learn about wealth-busters you need to be aware of so you truly can have your cake and eat it, too!

Today's episode offers inspirational quotes as well as practical tips for building relationships that last. Creating and nurturing meaningful relationships at work and at home will create a better version of a world we all want to live in so put in the necessary time to create relationships that matter. Grab your pen and take copious notes. We invite you to lean in for possibly the best conversation you will have all week. Be sure to share this episode with a friend.

Having 1,000 or 10,000 followers could make a real difference to our bottom line. But how do we attract and engage followers or members of our adoring community?

Your presence, your passion or platform and the way you convey your message can have a lasting impact on others. These are key factors in finding and growing your tribe. Mastering the Art of Charisma will help you build an engaged community of supporters as you work toward your big goals.

Does your personality attract or repel others? Do you have the "IT" factor? What draws your tribe toward you? Who is the collective audience that resonates with your specific message. Developing the interpersonal skills to create of personality of "attraction" is our topic for today.

The situation is dire. People are sad, lonely, hurting, confused and maybe just don’t know any better. How did we get to this point? Is this the modern version of the generation gap, or what’s the real story?

This year our conversations have focused on the inner workings of today’s business and career woman. However, we don’t operate in a vacuum. How then, should we interact with others? What are the key soft skills important for success in today’s office?

 Today multi-generation need to learn how to work together cohesively. We have the added layer of technology changes, in particular artificial intelligence and its emerging role in the “office.” How then do we navigate all these simultaneous occurrences and adapt to this fast-moving environment?

When did caring for others become so politically charged? Corporations are finding themselves in the crosshairs for attempting to be inclusive in their marketing and product lines. Does being loud make you right? Given our increasingly shrinking world, learning to work together and welcome other ethnicities and perspectives will create new opportunities for growth. Listen to this episode to learn how to move from "otherness" to "one another." You ARE welcome here.

Today's headlines mostly seem to focus on negative issues, spending time on stories with a running them on "otherness" when the science of it all shows that we are all more similar than we are different. When you consider community building around your passion platform, or even creating your company's culture, developing a more Cosmopolitan Outlook will serve you well.

Success does not mean it is nonstop " giggles & sherry." You will struggle, you will have challenges, your goals will take longer to achieve. Some days you wonder if you can carry on. The truth is, our success depends on how well we learn to adjust and even thrive despite the challenges that crop up. In today's episode we share tips on how to be more resilient and thrive in the face of adversity. Grab your pen and paper to make sure you note the helpful mnemonic for our B.O.U.N.C.E. B.A.C.K. tips!

The changes you are seeking start within. As you ready yourself to write your Vision 2024 Goals, consider the person you will need to be to achieve those illustrious goals. (Need a refresher? Go back and listed to our last episode #141, The (Wo)Man in the Mirror.)

We've spoken often about values-based goals. What we haven't spent a lot of time on are the internal changes that have to take place in order to "level up." You can't go through your days letting life just bump in to you. Take control of your internal dialogue and daily actions and gain better control over future. Your legacy depends on it!

How did you do last year? Have you completed your review to see if you met all your goals? Its a great idea to reflect and revisit your calendar or journal as a reminder of all you've done and summarize everything in the front of your calendar so you can easily access it again. (I call mine "My 20XX Year In Review") and I create a space each time I start a new calendar - try this!)

This week we're kicking off the New Year talking to The Woman in the Mirror - literally. We talk about how Kamal Ravikant's book "Love Yourself Like Your Life Depended on It" is an exceptional tool to embrace as you start the year with new goals and dreams.

Listen now to learn what you need to do today to make this the year you Level Up!

Be of good cheer! The world is still turning, and not only did we survive another year, but we have thrived! As you reflect back over the year that was, do you have a tendency to do a mental review of all that you have accomplished, (while still spending some quality time bemoaning the things you weren't able to check off your list)? Why not consider instead the progress you've made toward your future self? Adopt the mindset that you will use the goals you have achieved as stepping stones to greater heights.

We are sharing some good things that happened this year, while also giving you a sneak preview of the goodies we have in store for you in the New Year. Happy Holidays!

Each year we do a recap to highlight some of our episodes that made a lasting impression on us. Yes - we learn from and enjoy each episode, too! We do supplemental research to bring you the best intel, but also to emphasize or otherwise reinforce the tools and information we share with you each week. In doing so, we are newly inspired weekly. Today we are going to talk about a few things that really hit home for us. Let us know which were your favorite episodes, too!

Not only are we podcasts hosts, but we are also avid content creators. We invite you to lean into the amazing catalog of information found in our Divas, Diamonds, and Dollars playlist, but remember you can also benefit by reading our blogs. Be sure to take advantage of our downloadable resources to help you retain the lessons shared through each episode.

Each semi-annual time change sometimes leads one to reflect on the seasons of our lives. In which season of your life do you find yourself? This podcast explores the different seasons for mature women and how we can make the best choices and create more opportunities as we grow and become.

Many people are born with leadership qualities, whether they fully develop them or not. Additionally, there are those whose leadership traits have yet to be discovered, but who are definitely trainable and will go on to wonderful achievements. Which camp do you fall under? Before you answer, remember the term "leader" has many applications, from business owner/multipreneur, to supervisor/manager/executive. It also applies to how you lead yourself or your community, how you serve as a beacon for others.

In today's environment it's critical that we figure out how to rise above the narratives of a changing workforce. Having doubts and fears as you rise to the top is real and common. By learning to adapt, you can shift your fear to confidence. Remember, you know who you are, and your professional journey has taught you to be creative, disciplined and open to change. As you step into your new role, you will begin to lead by your standard of excellence, passion, and collaboration with others. Remember to hone what matters. Become a lifelong learner and continue to develop your leadership style. Listen now and learn to be fearless as you lean into your role as an emerging leader.

Why do we think we have to know everything in order to teach any thing? This is such a fallacy and it holds people back all the time. When your goal is to become a business owner, or take on a leadership role, sometimes you're afraid you're "going to be found out" that people will discover you're not perfect. Never forget how powerful you are - you need only step forward into your power and own it.

Join us for this installment of our signature Trailblazer Interview as we sit down and take a deep success dive with today's super-stars who are doing B.I.G. (Bold, Inspiring, Gifted) Things, changing the world we live in.

Listen now to Adam Carroll, four-time author, documentarian and TED-talk presenter. Through the use of The Shred Method, Adam Carroll paid off his home in record time, saving over $180, 000 in interest in the process. He's sharing this strategy with the world in order to help people "free themselves to be themselves." Learn more at TheShredMethod.com.

Be sure to share this episode with your friends who could benefit from this timely information! And remember to subscribe for more quality information and resources.

Calling all my single ladies, how prepared do you feel for your retirement? Women face a risky retirement outlook due to societal headwinds such as the gender pay gap (still!) and time out of the workforce for parenting and caregiving. Listen now to find out what the feds have cooked up for your future!

Remember, if you find this episode helpful, please share with your best gal pal and subscribe today for more insights!

Calling all entrepreneurs, aspiring business owners and community supporters who believe in the power of diverse businesses and growing your local economy. Ready to level up? Listen now to learn how knowing your numbers can open doors and build key relationships.

While it is a worthy goal to seek financial literacy for ourselves and for our children, today's environment - fully of opportunities and challenges - leads us to level up and strive to become financially savvy. As a former financial advisor for a national firm, I've remained invested in furthering my fiscal education so that I can take advantage of additional opportunities and be intentional about sharing intel with other women so we all thrive!

If "The Future is Female" what does that look like for tomorrow's "Girl Boss"? How are we supporting them on their journey? Let's discuss!

As a mother, Nana, teacher, mentor or leader, through our various roles we touch the lives of many young(er) women. We have the opportunity and possibly the responsibility to ensure our impact is positive and meaningful.

Today we’re excited to bring you an installment from our signature Voyager Interview series, as we sit down and take a deep success dive with today’s super-stars who are doing B.I.G. (Bold, Inspiring & Gifted) Things and changing the world we live in.

I’m pleased to introduce Anna Vickroy, A True Independent Woman, Purveyor of Hawaiian Goddess Bliss Retreats, and Multipreneur, true story!

Please join us as we find out more about Anna's inspiring journey of self-love as she shares how to embrace one's inner guide, how to listen to our bodies and the secrets waiting to unfold.

Life is too short not to enjoy it, amiright? From inflation, to rising housing costs (and don't get me started on taxes) it may seem you are treading water, financially speaking. Wherever you are on the income scale, we can all use some tips on ways to live the good life while on your personal success journey. Lean in!

As an independent woman, are you too powerful - meaning, when you enter a room, do others feel intimidated - or are you a source of inspiration? In this episode, we show you how to own your power, without apology (and without offending others).

How many of you recall the last line in Aretha Franklin’s hit “Pink Cadillac”? She said, “Thank you, I’ll get it myself.” Ladies are you holding your own in a male-dominated world? How’s that working out for you?

  You know I love music – it keeps me going when exercising or working hard. But I also find inspiration when certain lyrics jump out at me. Take for instance, the Isley Brothers hit, Who’s That Lady?, which describes yearning for an unobtainable special lady (paraphrased). In any case, while we offer our own definition of an Independent Woman, if you have arrived, we celebrate you. If independence feels more aspirational, we got you. In today’s podcast we’re offering guidance and action items to create more independence in your life.

Just for you: Today’s conversation is all about being an independent woman. The list of adjectives is long, so we will have to lean into perhaps just some high-level characteristics. See how they play out in your world.  

Location, location, location. Real estate terms can be confusing, amiright? We all want to know the best time to buy (or sell). However, just like the stock market, it's difficult to "time" the real estate market. The best rule of thumb is to do your homework, create a plan, and then make the best decision for your situation. Listen to today's podcast as we define, and then help you prepare for, a Buyers' Market and a Sellers Market. Share and subscribe!

Do you find yourself wondering if you will ever be able to afford a home of your own? There are a lot of moving parts to the real estate market and it can be challenging to know which parts apply to you. It definitely is not one-size-fits-all. Real estate is both cyclical and regional so take the blaring headlines with a grain of salt!

In today's episode we want to give you the Big Picture view on how to approach the home buying process, as well as give you a starting place for creating a viable plan that will lead you to a successful home ownership journey. As with any great undertaking, a little education goes a long way and will help you stay focused and clear on the best choices for your situation. We will take you far beyond the "location, location, location" tag line and show you how to buy a home of your own.

Links mentioned in this episode: AnnualCreditReport.com (Each year you can get a free copy of your credit report from each of the top three credit reporting agencies: TransUnion, Experian & Equifax.)

Compare interest rates and home prices to get an idea of what you can afford before you start searching for a lender: Zillow.com/mortgage-calculator/

Listen to our newest People Are Talking podcast as we break down today's headlines and why you should care. In this episode we hash out the hubris around book bans as well as adult literacy (reportedly a recent study revealed that 54% of adults can only read at the 6th grade level - how can this be?) Reading really is fundamental and you need this skill to get ahead - despite being able to "Google" any topic.

And for my fellow "Terminator" fans, what do you think about A.I. - artificial intelligence? Are you worried it may become sentient? Is there a "Cyberdyne Systems" or "Skynet" in our future?

Listen now and share with a friend.

Customers have so many choices today - so how to you make sure you stand out in a crowd? Loyalty is everything. In this episode we share three excellent client engagement strategies that will take you beyond the transactional and straight to memorable, garnering you repeat customers and referrals. Listen now!

Who hasn't heard the time-honored axiom, time is money? We all know it, but how are we using our time, and (insert suspenseful pause here) what are the three other key strategies to make sure you are getting every penny you should be receiving? We're going to share ways maximize the work hours you have each day to make sure your work day doesn't extend into the night, and we're going to expand the conversation to the other three resources at your fingertips to keep your coffers full to brimming over. Listen now and take copious notes!