146: The Power of Mindset: How Founder Ayana Rodriguez Partnered with the World’s Top Luxury Hotels

What does it take to build a brand that earns the trust of the world’s most prestigious hotels — and do it in an industry where you’re often the only woman, only Latina, or only woman of color in the room? In this powerful episode, Ayana Rodriguez, founder of ITAVI, shares how she transformed a simple idea about intentional childcare into a premium service now partnered with Four Seasons, Waldorf Astoria, 1 Hotel, Eden Roc, and more. From her early days running a children’s boutique to becoming the CEO of an award-winning company, Ayana’s journey is a masterclass in perseverance, vision, and courage. She opens up about how she refused to let labels or stereotypes define her path — choosing instead to focus on the mission, the solution, and the people she was called to serve. Through this conversation, you’ll learn: ✨ How to develop the mindset that keeps you moving forward — even when you feel like you don’t belong. 🏨 The power of strategic partnerships and how to position your brand for success in elite spaces. 💡 Why emotional intelligence and community support are critical for scaling your business. 🌱 How to reframe failures as lessons that fuel growth and resilience. 🤝 The importance of leveraging your village — in parenting, business, and beyond. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned businesswoman, this conversation will inspire you to dream bigger, push past fear, and pursue opportunities that once felt out of reach. Because your identity isn’t a barrier — it’s your superpower. Connect with Ayana:  Itavikids.com IG: @itavikids IG: @ayanamrodriguez 👯‍♀️ Join the FREE BFSF Accountability Community Call If you're ready to get out of your own head and into community, come connect with other like-minded women pursuing clarity and purpose. We'll share what we’re working on, where we’re stuck, and encourage one another. It’s completely FREE! ✅ Fill out the Accountability Club interest form here: 👉  Accountability Club link 💻 Let’s Connect: 📲 Instagram: @butfirstshefailed 🌐 Website: Paolasoares.com🎙 Book a Mentorship Session: Click Here📩 Join the Weekly Newsletter + Take the Boss Woman Profile Quiz: Sign Up▶️ Follow on YouTube: Watch Here

In this episode of But First, She Failed, we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by featuring Jacqueline Basulto, the Latina entrepreneur and Forbes 30 Under 30 CEO behind SeedX, a digital growth agency she launched with just $200. Since then, her agency has helped clients generate over $1 billion in revenue through innovative digital strategies and data-driven growth. Jacqueline shares how she built a thriving business from humble beginnings, how motherhood fuels her leadership, and her secrets to finding great talent and creating lasting success. ✨ You’ll Learn: How to find great talent early in your business The secret to “revenue synergy” and business growth How motherhood sharpens leadership and focus The mindset behind scaling with purpose If you’re a Latina entrepreneur, woman in business, or aspiring founder, this conversation will remind you that big impact can start with small beginnings. Connect with Jacqueline:  seedx.us Jacqueline Basulto Linkedin 👯‍♀️ Join the FREE BFSF Accountability Community Call If you're ready to get out of your own head and into community, come connect with other like-minded women pursuing clarity and purpose. We'll share what we’re working on, where we’re stuck, and encourage one another. It’s completely FREE! ✅ Fill out the Accountability Club interest form here: 👉  Accountability Club link 💻 Let’s Connect: 📲 Instagram: @butfirstshefailed 🌐 Website: Paolasoares.com🎙 Book a Mentorship Session: Click Here📩 Join the Weekly Newsletter + Take the Boss Woman Profile Quiz: Sign Up▶️ Follow on YouTube: Watch Here

Have you ever wondered what you were truly created to do? Maybe you’ve climbed the career ladder, switched roles, or even launched a business—yet you still feel empty inside, like something’s missing. Or perhaps you’re in a season of transition after being let go and you’re asking God, “What is my true calling?” If so, this episode of the But First, She Failed Podcast is for you. In this episode, Paola Soares unpacks how to discover your God-given calling and shares practical steps to help you uncover the unique purpose God created you for. Through biblical truth and real-life examples, she explores the difference between a job, career, and calling, and how your gifts, passions, and even your pain can point you toward your divine purpose. You’ll also learn why prayer, community, and taking action are essential in walking out your calling. ✨ In this episode you’ll discover: How to pray, fast, and journal to seek clarity on your God-given calling Why your natural giftings and passions reveal what makes you come alive How your pain and struggles can become a purposeful part of your calling The role of mentors, accountability, and community in confirming your gifts Why obedience and imperfect action open doors to your God-given destiny If you’ve been searching for clarity on God’s plan for your life, this episode will equip and encourage you to take the next step in uncovering your true calling. 👯‍♀️ Join the upcoming FREE BFSF Accountability Club Call If you're ready to get out of your own head and into community, come connect with other like-minded women pursuing clarity and purpose. We'll share what we’re working on, where we’re stuck, and encourage one another. It’s completely FREE! ✅ Fill out the Accountability Club interest form here: 👉 Sign Up Here 💻 Let’s Connect: 📲 Instagram: @butfirstshefailed 🌐 Website: Paolasoares.com▶️ Follow on YouTube: Watch here   Email: [email protected]  💖 Loved this Episode? Please subscribe, leave a 5-star review, and share it with your ambitious friends! Screenshot and tag Paola on IG to be featured.  

Are you trying to pursue your God-given calling all on your own? If so, you may be setting yourself up for unnecessary struggle. In this episode of But First, She Failed, Paola Soares shares why community and accountability are crucial to successfully walking in your God-given purpose. We’ll dive into the powerful role that accountability plays in helping you stay consistent, why isolation can lead to burnout and doubt, and how surrounding yourself with the right people can accelerate your growth and keep you faithful to the assignment God has placed on your life. If you’ve been wondering why your calling feels heavy, lonely, or overwhelming, this episode will encourage you to stop walking alone and embrace the support God has for you through community. 💡 You’ll learn: Why accountability helps you stay consistent in your purpose How community can sharpen, encourage, and equip you for success The secret to long-term faithfulness and growth in your calling 🎧 Whether you’re pursuing a career, business, or ministry, this conversation will help you understand why no one fulfills their calling alone—and why community is key to true success.   👯‍♀️ Join the FREE BFSF Accountability Club Call (Sept) If you're ready to get out of your own head and into community, come connect with other like-minded women pursuing clarity and purpose. We'll share what we’re working on, where we’re stuck, and encourage one another. It’s completely FREE! ✅ Fill out the Accountability Club interest form here: 👉 👉 (attend accountability call with this survey) 33. Why Hitting Burnout is So Dangerous, My Story & 3 Steps to Combat Burnout You Are Called Book    💻 Let’s Connect: 📲 Instagram: @butfirstshefailed 🌐 Website: Paolasoares.com▶️ Follow on YouTube: Watch here     Email: [email protected]  💖 Loved this Episode? Please subscribe, leave a 5-star review, and share it with your ambitious friends! Screenshot and tag Paola on IG to be featured.  

Do you know whether or not your walking in your God-given calling when it comes to your career or business? In this episode of But First, She Failed, Paola shares 6 powerful signs to help you discern if you’re aligned with the unique purpose God created you for. Through personal stories, biblical truths, and real-life examples, Paola unpacks how you can tell the difference between simply having a job or business and living in the fullness of your calling. Because success and recognition can never replace the lasting fulfillment that comes when you step into God’s plan for your life. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Am I living in my purpose?” or felt stuck between a career, entrepreneurship, and your true calling, this episode will give you clarity, encouragement, and practical signs to help you know if you’re walking in the life God designed for you. 👯‍♀️ Join the FREE BFSF Accountability Club Call (Sept) If you're ready to get out of your own head and into community, come connect with other like-minded women pursuing clarity and purpose. We'll share what we’re working on, where we’re stuck, and encourage one another. It’s completely FREE! ✅ Fill out the Accountability Club interest form here: 👉Fill this out!   💻 Let’s Connect: 📲 Instagram: @butfirstshefailed 🌐 Website: Paolasoares.com▶️ Follow on YouTube: Watch here Email: [email protected]  💖 Loved this Episode? Please subscribe, leave a 5-star review, and share it with your ambitious friends! Screenshot and tag Paola on IG to be featured.

Do you have a career you’ve worked hard to build? Maybe you’ve stepped out and started a business? But deep down, you still wonder if you’re truly walking in your God-given calling… In this episode of But First, She Failed, Paola unpacks the difference between building a career, running a business, and living out your true calling. Because here’s the truth: careers and businesses are good, but they will never fully satisfy if they’re not aligned with the purpose God uniquely designed for you. You’ll discover: ✨ Why careers bring growth but can leave you restless if they’re your only focus. ✨ The freedom and risk that come with owning a business—and why success alone can feel empty. ✨ How walking in your God-given calling brings lasting fulfillment, direction, and peace, no matter what season of life or work you’re in. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Am I meant for more?” or wondered if you’re truly living the life God called you to, this episode will challenge and inspire you. Walking in your calling isn’t just important—it’s essential. It’s the key to unlocking your greatest impact, deepest joy, and the kind of success that actually matters.     👯‍♀️ Join the FREE BFSF Accountability Club Call (Sept) If you're ready to get out of your own head and into community, come connect with other like-minded women pursuing clarity and purpose. We'll share what we’re working on, where we’re stuck, and encourage one another. It’s completely FREE! ✅ Fill out the Accountability Club interest form here: 👉 [Insert survey link] 💻 Let’s Connect: 📲 Instagram: @butfirstshefailed 🌐 Website: Paolasoares.com▶️ Follow on YouTube: Watch here     Email: [email protected]  💖 Loved this Episode? Please subscribe, leave a 5-star review, and share it with your ambitious friends! Screenshot and tag Paola on IG to be featured.

Are your small business finances keeping you up at night? In this episode of But First, She Failed, Paola sits down with Danielle Hendon, Fractional CFO and founder of Four Corners CFO, to break down how entrepreneurs can gain financial clarity, prevent burnout, and finally start paying themselves with confidence. Danielle explains the key differences between an accountant and a fractional CFO, and why having a CFO on your team can completely transform your business. You’ll learn how fractional CFOs bring big business strategies to small businesses, why understanding your numbers empowers better decision-making, and the crucial steps every entrepreneur should take to prioritize profit. Whether you’re a creative business owner, a founder in growth mode, or an entrepreneur tired of financial stress, this episode will give you actionable tools to make smart money moves and build a sustainable business you love. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The difference between an accountant and a fractional CFO Why financial clarity prevents burnout and fuels growth How to pay yourself and prioritize profit Big business strategies that work for small business owners Why work-life balance and smart money habits go hand-in-hand Connect with Danielle:  4Cornerscfo.com Get the free Guide mentioned here: https://4cornerscfo.com/butfirstshefailed/   👯‍♀️ Join the FREE BFSF Accountability Club Call (Sept) If you're ready to get out of your own head and into community, come connect with other like-minded women pursuing clarity and purpose. We'll share what we’re working on, where we’re stuck, and encourage one another. It’s completely FREE! ✅ Fill out the Accountability Club interest form here: 👉  Accountability Club link 💻 Let’s Connect: 📲 Instagram: @butfirstshefailed 🌐 Website: Paolasoares.com🎙 Book a Mentorship Session: Click Here📩 Join the Weekly Newsletter + Take the Boss Woman Profile Quiz: Sign Up▶️ Follow on YouTube: Watch Here  

Want to plan your next career move without the stress? In this episode, executive coach and HR consultant Kate Sargent shares how to navigate career transitions strategically, build a powerful support network, and use networking to open new opportunities. We cover the rise of fractional HR services, how to approach negotiation with confidence and kindness, and ways to translate your skills across industries. Kate also explains how to craft a cohesive personal brand that tells your story and attracts the right roles. You’ll Learn: Why the fractional HR model is a game-changer for small businesses. How to plan a career pivot without waiting for a crisis. Networking strategies that actually work. Negotiation tips that leave relationships stronger. How to translate your skills across industries. The power of a cohesive career narrative. Kate sits down with host Paola Soares to break down actionable strategies for effective networking, confident negotiation, and crafting a cohesive career narrative that helps you stand out in any industry. She also explains how to translate your skills across different fields, position your personal brand for success, and turn failures into opportunities for growth. Packed with practical tips, this conversation will equip you with the tools you need to navigate change, expand your network, and create a career path that aligns with your strengths and values.   Connect with Kate:  kjs.consulting.com Linkedin: Kate Sargent 👯‍♀️ Join the FREE BFSF Accountability Club Call (Sept) If you're ready to get out of your own head and into community, come connect with other like-minded women pursuing clarity and purpose. We'll share what we’re working on, where we’re stuck, and encourage one another. It’s completely FREE! ✅ Fill out the Accountability Club interest form here: 👉  Accountability Club link 💻 Let’s Connect: 📲 Instagram: @butfirstshefailed 🌐 Website: Paolasoares.com🎙 Book a Mentorship Session: Click Here📩 Join the Weekly Newsletter + Take the Boss Woman Profile Quiz: Sign Up▶️ Follow on YouTube: Watch Here  

Feeling lost in your career, business or more importantly when it comes to your purpose and calling? In this episode, host Paola Soares shares what she’s doing about it—and how you can find clarity, purpose, and peace in your season of uncertainty. If you’ve been feeling stuck, disconnected from your calling, or unsure of your next step in business or life, this conversation is for you. Whether you're an entrepreneur, professional, or purpose-driven woman seeking God for answers—this is your reminder that you're not alone. 🔎 In this episode, we explore: Why you may be feeling lost in your career or purpose How to seek God for direction and clarity The power of surrendering your plans Finding peace through Scripture and spiritual alignment The importance of community and accountability Why obedience (even small steps) is key to breakthrough The parable of the talents and how it applies to your calling 💬 Key Scriptures Mentioned: Jeremiah 1:5 – "Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you…" Ephesians 3:20 – "God is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all…" Matthew 25:14–30 – The Parable of the Talents     👯‍♀️ Join the FREE BFSF Accountability Club Call (Sept) If you're ready to get out of your own head and into community, come connect with other like-minded women pursuing clarity and purpose. We'll share what we’re working on, where we’re stuck, and encourage one another. It’s completely FREE! ✅ Fill out the Accountability Club interest form here: 👉 Click Here 💻 Let’s Connect: 📲 Instagram: @butfirstshefailed 🌐 Website: Paolasoares.com 🎙 Book a Mentorship Session: Click Here 📩 Join the Weekly Newsletter + Take the Boss Woman Profile Quiz: Sign Up ▶️ Follow on YouTube: Watch Here Email: [email protected]  

Feeling off-track with your goals? You’re not alone. In this episode of But First, She Failed, host Paola Soares walks you through a mid-year reset strategy to help you realign, refocus, and finish 2025 strong. This episode is for high-achieving women, working moms, and goal-getters who are ready to take back control of their year. Learn how to reevaluate your goals, reconnect with your “why,” build systems that support productivity, and eliminate distractions—so you can make the next six months your most successful season yet. Whether your goals are business, personal, health, or career-related, this episode is packed with practical tips to reset your mindset, create systems, and finish the year empowered.   🧠 Featured Product for Focus & Productivity: 💡 Magic Mind: The Mental Performance Shot That Works Say goodbye to caffeine crashes and hello to calm focus! Paola’s secret weapon for productivity and energy. ✨ 100% natural, nootropics, adaptogens + Vitamins C & D 🎁 Get 60% OFF your first subscription with code PAOLA60 👉 Claim Your Discount Here     💻 Let’s Connect: 📲 Instagram: @butfirstshefailed 🌐 Website: Paolasoares.com🎙 Book a Mentorship Session: Click Here📩 Join the Weekly Newsletter + Take the Boss Woman Profile Quiz: Sign Up▶️ Follow on YouTube: Watch Here   📚 Resources & Mentions: 🎧 Listen to: Episode 118 – Supercharge Your 2025 for Massive Growth 🎧 Listen to: Episode 113: How Systemizing Your Life and Business Will Completely Transform It with Chelsi Jo Moore 📖 Book Mentioned: Atomic Habits by James Clear 🗂️ Tools: Google Calendar, Time Blocking, Weekly Planning Systems 🎓 Shoutout: Side Hustle Pro & Podcast Moguls Course by Nicaila Matthews Okome   💖 Loved this Episode? Please subscribe, leave a 5-star review, and share it with your ambitious friends! Screenshot and tag Paola on IG to be featured.