Powered by Authenticity

Ever Looking Ahead

In this episode, I’m joined by Amy Au, Founder of Innovate You, for a heartfelt and inspiring conversation about transformation, intentional coaching, and the impact of investing in personal development.We open with a sweet moment—Amy shares a cherished memory of her favorite childhood treat, and I just love the connection she draws between food, family, and the roots of who we become.Amy’s work through Innovate You is changing lives by helping individuals recognize the internal shifts they may need to make to unlock their full potential. Her coaching is deeply personal—by customizing each session to meet the individual where they are, Amy holds her clients accountable, helps shift habits in a positive direction, and supports them in letting go of what no longer serves them.We also explore the growing momentum behind organizations offering coaching beyond the executive level—especially for women in STEM. Amy shares how early access to coaching can help women build confidence, grow into leadership roles, and feel supported along the way. And just as importantly, she highlights how male allies are beginning to benefit from coaching as well, creating a more inclusive and balanced workplace.This was such a meaningful conversation, and I loved hearing how Amy is helping both women and men become the best versions of themselves—at work, at home, and in life.Links to find more about Amy:Amy Au, ACC, FCPC, FCA | LinkedInInnovate You/Executive Leadership CoachingAmy's Bio:Amy Au is an ICF certified (ACC) Coach and Fascinate® Certified Advisor who radiates inspiring transformation.She founded her coaching business, Innovate You, in 2023 with the mission to drive more positive impact and create a brighter future, one leader at a time.Amy is based in Canada and partners with clientsglobally. Emphasizing on empowering Women in STEM leaders and teams to reach beyond their perceived limits, discover their innate creativity, gain clarity & focus to propel forward with confident actions, and turn their aspirations to accomplishments faster.Before expanding her career as an Executive Leadership Coach, Amy spent over 25 years in the technology sector, including 23 years at a Global Fortune 500 company. She held people management & leadership roles in business analytics, technology-driven innovation, and organizational change.As a Fascinate® Certified Advisor, Amy uses the Fascinate® System to help her clients recognize their uniqueness and focus on what makes them most valuable. Enabling them to present and communicate in ways that capture attention, build better relationships, stand-out in the crowd and build engaging & high-performing teams.Amy is also an active certified, Gold Tier, #IAmRemarkable facilitator, volunteering to support women and underrepresented groups build confidence, personal growth, and professional advancement through self-promotion practice, challenging the existing preconceptions, and inclusive leadership. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Destined to Lead

In this episode, I'm joined by Lisa Thomas, Founder of Epigenetics for Global Impact™ — and what a conversation it was.We dive into the powerful idea that inherited emotional DNA can quietly place limitations on our success, often without us even realizing it. Have you ever wondered if inherited beliefs or patterns might be holding you back — in your career, your relationships, or even your personal growth?One of my favorite insights from Lisa during our conversation:"The fear of the unknown often keeps us trapped in the unhealthy of some area of our life."It made me pause and reflect: How often do we let fear of the unknown stop us from chasing something greater? And what would happen if we chose joy instead?In this episode, we explore:How inherited limitations can impact your successPractical ways to break through those barriersWhy finding a moment of joy each day is critical to your growthHow to start recognizing opportunities that are already around youThis conversation will energize you, challenge you, and hopefully inspire you to move past fear and into greater possibilities.A huge thank you to Lisa for joining me — this was such a fun, insightful, and meaningful episode.Connect with Lisa Thomas:Home - Lisa ThomasLisa Thomas 🧬Epigenetics for Global Impact™ | LinkedInConnect with Emily Carlsonwww.poweredbyauthenticityEmily Carlson | LinkedInLisa's Bio:Lisa Thomas is the founder of Epigenetics for Global Impact™, the creator of Soul Awakening Method™ and Inner Empowerment Matrix™. With a focus on unlocking untapped potential, igniting radical growth, and activating global impact, Lisa has dedicated her career to guiding high-achieving individuals beyond the confines of conventional success to achieve profound personal and professional breakthroughs.As an international mentor and keynote speaker, Lisa’s insights into Epigenetics have revolutionized the approach to personal development and leadership. Her unique methods involve delving deep into inherited emotional DNA, enabling clients—from global business leaders to celebrities and emerging entrepreneurs—to overcome inherited limitations and realign their lives with their true purposes.Author of the enlightening book “Mistakes Into Money,” Lisa’s influence is recognized globally in the media: She has been featured in USA Today, US Business News, TEDx and on Good Morning LaLa Land, amongst others, as well as many podcasts and stages around the world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Author Swap with Jacob Brown!!

In this episode, I’m thrilled to welcome back Jacob Brown — former NFL player turned transformational speaker, coach, and author of the international best-seller Fail Forward Mentality. And most importantly? One of the kindest humans I’ve ever met.Together, we dive into our very first Author Swap, sharing the stories behind our books, the writing process, and our views on leadership, personal growth, and the power of showing up authentically.Jacob’s book, Fail Forward Mentality, is packed with positive guidance and 100 inspirational quotes that truly resonated with me. One that stands out:“Be you, they’ll adjust.”A powerful reminder to stop shrinking or shifting for others — and to keep leading as your full, unapologetic self.This conversation was energizing, inspiring, and full of heart. Thank you, Jacob, for making this first-ever Author Swap so memorable.Links where you can find Jacob:LinkedIn: Jacob Brown 🔥 | LinkedInWebsite:Jacob Brown | #1 Transformational Speaker | Conference Keynote Speaker | Author Speaking Coach & Mentor | #FailForwardFail Forward Mentality on Amazon:Amazon.com: Fail Forward Mentality: Rewrite Your Story And Turn Failures Into Fuel eBook : Brown, Jacob: Kindle StoreInstagram:@officialjakebrownLink to the Coffee Bean as discussed in the episode:The Coffee Bean: A Simple Lesson to Create Positive Change (Jon Gordon): Gordon, Jon, West, Damon: 9781119430278: Amazon.com: Books Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A Blank Space Creative

On this episode of Powered by Authenticity, Melissa Bernstein joins me for a conversation that is raw, rich, and full of meaning. You probably know Melissa as the co-founder of the wildly successful Melissa & Doug toy company and Lifelines—but behind the brands is a deeply creative soul who spent years struggling to make sense of the world, and her place in it.In this conversation, Melissa shares how she turned a lifelong sense of “otherness” into purpose. She opens up about what it really means to live authentically, how creativity saved her, and the work she is doing as a mentor to others.This episode is for anyone who’s ever felt like they didn’t belong—and needed someone to say, “Me too.”Within we chat about:How Melissa turned deep sensitivity and creative energy into a lifelong missionThe silent struggles she carried—even while building a wildly successful companyWhy stepping into mentorship has become one of the most fulfilling parts of her journeyThe difference between “fitting in” and truly belongingWhat it takes to live with intention, even when it feels uncomfortableMelissa brings deep honesty to this conversation, with just the right mix of wisdom and warmth. If you’ve been craving real talk about purpose, identity, and helping others grow—this one’s for you.Thank you, Melissa, for a wonderful conversation. I can't wait to have you on our show again!Where to find more information on Melissa:Practice Makes Purpose™ | Well-Being Ecosystem | LifelinesLifeLines: An Inspirational Journey from Profound Darkness to Radiant Light: Bernstein, Melissa: 9781735439709: Books - Amazon.caMelissa's Bio:Melissa Bernstein is an entrepreneur, creative, and working mother of six. In 1988, Melissa and her husband co-founded Melissa & Doug out of their parents’ garage, and in the years that followed, they built Melissa & Doug into a multi-billion dollar brand. Melissa has spent the last 30 years helping children discover themselves, their passions, and their purpose through open-ended play. In 2020, after her own personal journey of self-discovery and acceptance, Melissa co-founded Lifelines. In this new venture, she is using her unparalleled creativity and imagination to reinvent well-being products that help adults rediscover wonder and relieve stress through their senses. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Tall Poppy Revolution

In this episode, Emily Carlson sits down with Carrie Gallant, founder of the Gallant Leader Institute, for a deep and thoughtful conversation on human design, leadership, and negotiating with authenticity.Carrie shares her journey from Vancouver, BC to launching her company focused on empowering women executives to lead boldly and negotiate with confidence—both in the boardroom and beyond.Together, Emily and Carrie explore:What human design is and how it can influence your leadership styleWhy understanding your energetic blueprint can lead to more authentic decision-makingThe connection between self-awareness, negotiation, and empowered leadershipCarrie’s personal story of reinvention and creating a business with purposeDespite a few tech hiccups in previous attempts (third time’s the charm!), this conversation is full of meaningful takeaways, laughs, and the kind of real talk you can expect from Powered by Authenticity.About Carrie:Carrie Gallant is an author, lawyer turned strategic advisor, and the CEO of The Gallant Leader™ Institute, where C-Suite and executive women leaders navigate high-stakes conversations and negotiations, transform impostor feelings and elevate their executive presence, so they can confidently own their seat at the boardroom table without compromising their values, authenticity or personal life.Carrie is coauthor of Conversation Secrets for Tomorrow’s Leaders: 21 Obvious Secrets Leaders Do Not Use Enough, an Amazon #1 Hot New Release in Business Leadership.She  is certified in Conversational Intelligence®, Authentic Leadership Conversations™ and Authentic Leadership for Teams™ and a certified Imposter Syndrome Informed Coach™. A former lawyer and executive, Carrie was adjunct professor at the University of British Columbia for nine years, and taught previously at the Universities of Toronto and Windsor, and York University. She was invited by The White House to speak about pay equity at a national conference on women’s equality.You can reach Carrie at carrie@gallantsolutionsinc.com. You can also find her at www.GallantLeader.com, LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram (@GallantLeader). Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Bully and the Cheerleader

In this episode of Powered by Authenticity, I’m joined by Sally Green, Vice President of Author Development at Action Takers Publishing.Sally shares her inspiring journey to her current role and highlights the essential role that self-care played in getting there. We dive into how she leveraged connections from her book projects to transform her professional path, and how intentional networking helped open new doors.She also reminds us of a powerful truth: it’s okay to put ourselves first and choose the things that bring us joy—even if that means saying no to others.This was such a heartfelt and empowering conversation, and I hope you walk away feeling just as inspired as I did.Thank you so much, Sally!Where to find Sally:Sally Larkin Green | LinkedInHome | Action Takers PublishingSally's Bio:Sally Green is the Vice President of Author Development at Action Takers Publishing. With a background in business, Sally's passion for storytelling and empowering others has transformed her into a bestselling author, book publisher and inspirational speaker.​As Vice President of Author Development, Sally guides aspiring writers through the process of transforming their ideas into bestselling books. She provides invaluable feedback, accountability, and encouragement. ​Beyond her publishing role, Sally is a sought-after motivational speaker, sharing her experiences and insights. She motivates individuals to embrace self-care, pursue their passions, and unleash their inner author. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

1st Row Seats and Champagne

People often ask me if I have a favorite travel experience—whether it’s a destination, trip, or flight. Well, in this episode, I finally answer that question! And who better to join me than my niece, Annie Janofsky—who, by pure chance, was my companion on my all-time favorite travel story.We share the magic of being in the right place at the right time and how it led to the BEST flight EVER. From unexpected surprises to unforgettable moments, this story is one for the books!A huge thank you to Annie—not only for being one of my favorite people on this planet but also for being my ultimate travel sidekick (and marketing officer 😉).Got travel questions of your own? Drop them in! Who knows—I might just invite you to join me for a future episode.LinkedIn:Annie Janofsky | LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tales from the Road

Do I miss traveling for work? It’s a question I get all the time!To dive into this, I brought in two of my favorite ‘road family’ members, Tricia Cartledge and Mike Bright, to help me unpack what we really miss about life on the road.Spoiler alert: it’s not the travel itself—it’s the people. The friendships, the shared experiences, and the team that became like family.In this episode, we reminisce about some of our funniest, craziest, and most memorable moments from the road. If you’ve ever traveled for work, you know that the best stories don’t come from the destinations—they come from the people you share the journey with.Want to hear more road stories? Let me know in the commentsThank you, Tricia and Mike, for a fun episode!!LinkedIn for Tricia and Mike:Tricia Cartledge, PMP, MCT, ITIL, CSM | LinkedInMike Bright, PMP | LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Individual Value

What happens when you’re faced with an unexpected career pivot? Or when you decide to make a bold move into something new? In this episode ofPowered by Authenticity, I sit down withLynne Thornton, SVP Channel Activation with JSG, a dynamic leader who knows firsthand the power ofbeing proactive about building your network and skill sets—long before you need them.Lynne shares invaluable insights on:Whystrategically growing your network can create opportunities before you even realize you need themHow toput out an ask and take the leap—because sometimes, all it takes is one "yes"The importance ofpausing and prioritizing yourself—stepping back from the grind to realign your goalsSide hustles as career safety nets—how to build something on the side that could become a full-time career if neededWhy having a coach matters—someone who takes a personal approach and understands that "people are unique"Lynne highlights the importance of working with acoach who sees you as an individual, not just a professional in transition. The right coach will help you navigate challenges, make strategic decisions, and build confidence in your next move.This episode is all aboutfuture-proofing your career with intentional moves, smart connections, and the courage to take a step back (or a step forward) when the time is right. Whether you're considering a pivot, exploring a passion project, or just want toset yourself up for success, Lynne’s advice is packed with inspiration and actionable takeaways.Listen now and start shaping your careerbefore you need to.About Lynne:Lynne has been a technology industry leader throughout her career, with an extensive background in developing sales, operational and business transformation strategies. She has experience leading large corporate teams and is also a tech channel consultant, specializing in advising clients on developing strategies to grow their businesses profitably. Throughout her career, Lynne has coached and mentored all levels of associates and leaders. Experiencing firsthand the value and impact that good coaching brings to people, she took her passion for coaching to the next level by obtaining her Leadership Coaching and HOGAN Personality Assessment certifications.As a Coach, Lynne approaches each of her clients as the unique individuals that they are, using assessments to help people unlock their untapped potential and conquer the barriers to their growth and success. She helps her clients better understand themselves and how others see them and then guides clients in creating sustainable plans that enable them to achieve their career growth and life journey dreams. Lynne is passionate about solving how to make technology careers possible for all people. She is a founding member of Women in Technology (WIT) International, Buffalo Chapter, and has served on Tech Buffalo’s Workforce Advisory Group. Lynne also leverages her leadership experience and coaching expertise to help guide people without technology backgrounds or formal education to obtain skills needed to obtain fulfilling careers in technology.Professional Experience• SVP Channel Activation, JSG Now• Executive Director Software Sales and Operations, Ingram Micro• Founder, Elevate Advisory Services (a leadership consulting firm) Education and Leadership Certifications• BA/Business administration - Buffalo State University• Executive Leadership Coaching Certification, UB School of Management• Certified in HOGAN Personality AssessmentBoard and Volunteer Experience• Women Who Lead WNY, Founding Board Member & Secretary• Mikey’s Way Foundation, Board Member• Women in Technology (WIT) International, WNY Chapter, Founding Board Member• TECH BUFFALO Workforce Advisory Group, Technology Advisor• UB HACKATHON, Judge& Mentor • UB Student GLOBAL Leadership Program, CoachLinks to Lynne and JSG Now:Lynne Thornton | LinkedInhttps://www.jsgnow.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Decisions, Decisions

Recently I've been asked multiple times whether or not there was a career decision in the past that I would make differently now...knowing what I know.Listen to my answer in a recent solo cast recording of my podcast, Powered by Authenticity!! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.