129. The Power of Waiting Seasons with Dawncheré Wilkerson

In this episode of the But First She Failed podcast, Host Paola Soares tackles a topic that many of us face but few talk about openly—discouragement. Drawing from her own experiences, Paola unpacks how discouragement can silently impact our careers, businesses, dreams, and mental well-being. She discusses the dangers of discouragement and reminds us that feeling discouraged doesn’t make us weak—it makes us human. Through an honest and empowering conversation, Paola offers practical steps to move forward, including practicing self-compassion, reaching out for support, and taking intentional action. Whether you're navigating a tough season, questioning your path, or simply feeling stuck, this episode will leave you encouraged and equipped to keep going—with renewed motivation and resilience. 🔗 Resources & Links: Instagram: @butfirstshefailed Paolasoares.com Book A Podcast Clarity Session Here!! Weekly But First, She Failed Newsletter Sign up/ Your Boss Woman Profile Quiz But First, She Failed FB Community

In this episode of But First, She Failed, host Paola Soares sits down with her pastor Dawncheré Wilkerson to talk about her newly released debut book Slow Burn:The Work and Wonder of the Wait. A renowned international pastor, speaker, singer, songwriter, and now author, DawnCheré has encouraged countless people to keep moving forward, even in seasons of waiting. As the co-lead pastor of VOUS Church in Miami, Florida, alongside her husband Rich, DawnCheré opens up about their eight-year journey through infertility and the faithfulness they've experienced in welcoming their four children and what she learned in the wait, the process of becoming, how seasons of waiting can shape us and why it’s important to be intentional in a season of waiting this and so much more. This episode offers deep encouragement and insight for anyone navigating their own season of waiting or searching for purpose in the midst of life’s challenges. Tune in for a conversation filled with wisdom, encouragement, and a reminder that strength often comes in the slow burn. Connect with DC: 📘 Slow Burn: The Work and Wonder of the Wait – [Buy Book Here] 🌐 VOUS Church – https://www.vouschurch.com 📱 Follow DawnCheré on Instagram – @dawnchere   Let’s Connect: Instagram: @butfirstshefailed Paolasoares.com Book A Podcast Clarity Session Here Weekly But First, She Failed Newsletter Sign up/ Your Boss Woman Profile Quiz  

In this inspiring episode of But First, She Failed, host Paola Soares sits down with Yuri Cordero, Vice President and Executive Producer of Univision’s iconic news show Primer Impacto. A trailblazer in Spanish-language media, Yuri shares her remarkable 30-year journey, how she broke barriers in a competitive industry, rose to the top, and built a legacy rooted in faith, resilience, and purpose-driven leadership. Yuri is also the author of the best-selling book La Virtud del Proceso (The Virtue of the Process) and co-author of Winning Strategies for Success with the legendary Brian Tracy. As the founder of HighGrace, she empowers women and emerging leaders to walk confidently in their power and authority. In this episode, Yuri opens up about: Her keys to career success as a Latina leader in media How to lead with impact and intention, regardless of your title Why the “process” is essential to personal growth and professional breakthrough Her journey of faith-based leadership The importance of mentorship, legacy, and public service Yuri also shares insights on her work with nonprofits like NAMI Miami and Todo Autismo, and how being a mother, chaplain, and speaker shapes the way she shows up in the world. Whether you're an aspiring leader, an established executive, or a woman navigating your purpose, this conversation will fuel your spirit and equip you to lead with confidence, break glass ceilings, and redefine success on your terms Connect with Yuri: yuricordero.com IG: @yuri_cordero   Let’s Connect: Instagram: @butfirstshefailed Paolasoares.com Book A Podcast Clarity Session Here Weekly But First, She Failed Newsletter Sign up/ Your Boss Woman Profile Quiz  

In this episode, Host Paola Soares speaks with Jennifer Tsay, co-founder and CEO of Shoott.com, a fast-growing photography platform that’s transforming the way people book professional photo sessions. Jennifer shares her incredible journey from working in the corporate space to acting and into entrepreneurship, and how she leveraged her transferable skills, resilience, and a strong sense of purpose to scale a business from the ground up. We explore how women in business can overcome internal doubts, how to test and validate startup ideas, and the mindset shifts required to make bold career transitions. From embracing failure to making data-driven decisions, this conversation is packed with real, actionable advice for current and aspiring founders. Whether you're curious about disrupting traditional industries, scaling a creative business, or taking that first step toward entrepreneurship, this episode offers valuable insight and inspiration. In this episode we discuss how successfully disrupt or democratize an industry, how to take your skillset from the corporate space and parlay it into entrepreneurship, why all moms are capable of being entrepreneurs as well as what it take to leave a corporate career and build a startup that disrupts an entire industry this and more….   Connect with Jennifer:  https://shoott.com IG: @shoottphotos  IG: @jenjentsay My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-tsay/   Let’s Connect: Instagram: @butfirstshefailed Paolasoares.com Book A Podcast Clarity Session Here Weekly But First, She Failed Newsletter Sign up/ Your Boss Woman Profile Quiz  

In this episode, host Paola Soares talks dives into the hidden dangers of perfectionism and how it can silently sabotage your career, business, and professional development. Over the past few weeks, we’ve explored perfectionism’s grip on our personal lives, but now it’s time to take a closer look at its impact on our professional worlds. From procrastination and burnout to stifled creativity and impaired decision-making, perfectionism can manifest in many harmful ways that hinder progress and success. We’ll discuss the negative effects in detail and explore how these behaviors can damage your productivity, relationships with colleagues, and even your mental health. This and so much more.   Let’s Connect: Instagram: @butfirstshefailed Paolasoares.com Book A Podcast Clarity Session Here!! Weekly But First, She Failed Newsletter Sign up/ Your Boss Woman Profile Quiz But First, She Failed FB Community

In this episode, host Paola Soares talks about the root causes of perfectionism, is it genetic or environmental? What are developmental things in your childhood that could cause someone to be a perfectionist? And how to combat perfectionism when it pops up? In this episode Paola continues the deep dive into the complexities of perfectionism and its origins. She explores how genetics, parenting, societal pressures, and even social media can fuel perfectionistic behaviors. I’ll also share strategies to help you identify and manage perfectionism triggers in your life. Whether it’s in your career, relationships, or personal growth, this episode will help you understand where perfectionism comes from and how to begin healing from its grip.   Let’s Connect: Instagram: @butfirstshefailed Paolasoares.com Book A Podcast Clarity Session Here!! Weekly But First, She Failed Newsletter Sign up/ Your Boss Woman Profile Quiz But First, She Failed FB Community

In this episode, host Paola Soares talks about being a high achiever vs. perfectionism and how to know the difference. In this episode she goes over the various traits of a high achiever vs. a perfectionist and juxaposes them side by side so you can see which category you fall into. It’s always wise to reflect and see what’s healthy vs. unhealthy and this episode will give you the handles and information on how to do that. So whether you are an entrepreneur, career woman, stay at home mom or student or anything in between this episode will help you.   Let’s Connect: Instagram: @butfirstshefailed Paolasoares.com Book A Podcast Clarity Session Here!! Weekly But First, She Failed Newsletter Sign up/ Your Boss Woman Profile Quiz But First, She Failed FB Community  

In this episode, host Paola Soares talks about how perfectionism is actually a form of self-sabotage. She dives into the unexpected truth about perfectionism and how it may be silently sabotaging your life, career, and dreams. You might think of perfectionism as a pursuit of excellence, but in reality, it’s often a form of self-sabotage that keeping you stuck. She also shares personal stories and insights from her own journey of overcoming perfectionism. She explores how perfectionism shows up in everyday life, including avoidance, overworking, and the all-or-nothing thinking that holds you back from taking action. You'll learn practical tips for moving past perfectionism—like reframing your mindset. If you've been struggling to start that project, send that email, or take that leap towards your goals, this episode is for you! Tune in for some real talk and actionable strategies to break free from the chains of perfectionism and start making progress toward your dreams. Don’t forget to subscribe and let us know if you want more content like this. See you in the episode!   Let’s Connect: Instagram: @butfirstshefailed Paolasoares.com Book A Podcast Clarity Session Here!! Weekly But First, She Failed Newsletter Sign up/ Your Boss Woman Profile Quiz But First, She Failed FB Community Email me: [email protected]

In this episode, host Paola Soares chats about 7 reasons why it’s crucial to start your personal brand in 2025. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, freelancer, or professional or stay at home mom, building a personal brand can open doors to new opportunities, enhance your credibility, and help you stand out in a competitive world. Tune in to discover why establishing your personal brand now will set you up for long-term growth and impact and why it’s more important than ever to start building your personal brand. Whether you’re just starting or already have a personal brand, this episode will give you the motivation you need to level up and stay ahead in 2025. Tune in, get inspired, and start building the personal brand you deserve!   Let’s Connect: Instagram: @butfirstshefailed Paolasoares.com Book A Podcast Clarity Session Here!! Weekly But First, She Failed Newsletter Sign up/ Your Boss Woman Profile Quiz But First, She Failed FB Community Email me: [email protected]

In this episode, host Paola Soares breaks down 6 ways to figure out your perfect side hustle.Whether you are over your 9-5 or looking for something that’s more flexible and will lead to the life you want? Or maybe you are a stay at home mom or a part time work from home mom but you’d love to eventually have your own business…  Maybe you are ok with your current situation but just something tugging at your heart telling you there is more for you out there… today’s episode is for you!   Let’s Connect: Instagram: @butfirstshefailed Paolasoares.com Book A Podcast Clarity Session Here!! Weekly But First, She Failed Newsletter Sign up/ Your Boss Woman Profile Quiz But First, She Failed FB Community Email me: [email protected]