340. How to Influence Without Authority: What Nina Frost's Fight for Her Daughter Teaches Us About Leading Change

340. How to Influence Without Authority: What Nina Frost's Fight for Her Daughter Teaches Us About Leading ChangeGuest: Nina Frost, Founder of Rare HopeTHIS WEEK'S TOPIC:How far would you go to save your child’s life — or to change the future for countless others facing rare disease? When confronted with her daughter Annabel’s rare neurological diagnosis, this week’s guest, Nina Frost, decided to rewrite the playbook. In a conversation rich with hope, resilience, and ground-breaking science, Nina shares how she turned personal crisis into a movement, rallied top researchers, and co-authored research that’s shaping the future of rare disease treatment. If you’ve ever struggled to find purpose in uncertainty, to build influence without a roadmap, or to keep gratitude close in the toughest moments, this episode is for you.ABOUT THIS WEEK’S GUEST:Nina Frost is the founder of Rare Hope, a trailblazing organization changing what’s possible for thousands affected by rare neurological disorders. Driven by her daughter Annabel’s diagnosis with alternating hemiplegia of childhood, Nina brought together expert researchers and Harvard scientists, and helped pioneer new approaches by leveraging her unique background, relentless tenacity, and deep compassion for the rare disease community.KEY TOPICS AND WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE:BUILDING A MOVEMENT FROM A FAMILY CRISIS: Nina shares her journey from moments of shock and fear after Annabel’s diagnosis, to launching Hope for Annabel (now Rare Hope), and building a scientific and advocacy community.LEADING WITHOUT A ROADMAP: Learn how Nina applied her management consulting skills to navigate scientific complexity—despite no formal background in medicine or research—and why expertise, curiosity, and connection are critical for influence.THE PATIENTS-AS-PARTNERS APPROACH: Discover why Nina centers patient experience in research, and how she collects and translates real data from families to guide scientific and clinical priorities.RALLYING SUPPORT & FUNDING INNOVATION: Nina opens up about building relationships, raising pivotal seed funds, and why simply “having” money can sometimes open more doors than spending it. Plus, hear her advice for fundraisers facing big, uncertain challenges.THE IMPACT OF COLLABORATION: Explore the extraordinary work with Nobel-worthy scientist Dr. David Liu and how patient organizations like Rare Hope can directly influence ground-breaking gene editing projects.FAMILY, RESILIENCE & GRATITUDE: Nina discusses the effect of Annabel’s diagnosis on her family — including the challenges facing siblings — and shares hard-won perspective on guilt, grace, and how parents in the rare disease community keep moving forward.TURNING TRAUMA INTO PURPOSE: Hear Nina’s future vision for genetics and disease research—why rare disease isn’t actually “rare,” and how work in this field can unlock insights for everyone.There’s inspiration, practical advice, and a new lens for thinking about advocacy and influence in this week’s conversation. I’d love to know what resonated with you. Please connect with us and share your reflections!LOOKING FOR MORE SHE SAID/SHE SAID?You’ll find all prior episodes and content here: shesaidshesaidpodcast.comLET’S CONNECT!Instagram: @lauracoxkaplanLinkedIn: Laura Cox KaplanFacebook: Laura Cox KaplanContact Laura Cox Kaplan: shesaidshesaidpodcast.comEmail: [email protected] Nina and Rare Hope: rare-hope.orgPLEASE RATE AND REVIEW SHE SAID/SHE SAID PODCASTYour reviews on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, GooglePlay, or wherever you listen help us refine our content and ensure you get more of what matters to you. Please consider sharing your feedback!Note: She Said/She Said Podcast is a weekly production of She Said/She Said Media.

SHOW NOTESEpisode 339: How to Create “Reader-First” Thought Leadership That ConnectsA short-form, Toolkit Episode!THIS WEEK’S TOPIC:Are you pouring time and energy into sharing your thought leadership on social media, only to feel like your posts are falling flat or not gaining traction? You’re not alone — and there’s a smart, simple way to change that. In this week’s shorter ToolKit Episode, host Laura Cox Kaplan digs into the critical shift from “me first” to “reader first” and provides actionable advice for anyone looking to build truly meaningful influence, whether you’re just starting out or seeking to deepen your impact.Laura shares her own best practices honed from years of experience, outlining how focusing on what your audience needs can be the difference between being scrolled past and earning lasting trust and attention.ABOUT THIS WEEK’S EPISODE:KEY TAKEAWAYS AND WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE:WHY “READER-FIRST” MATTERS: Discover why starting with your audience’s needs and experiences is the fastest way to build trust, spark engagement, and develop real influence.THE “HOOK, HELP, HUMAN” (HHH) FRAMEWORK: Learn how to structure posts so they instantly hook your reader, offer practical help, and create human connection.FLIPPING THE SCRIPT: See how to reframe typical “I’m excited to…” posts into compelling, service-oriented content your audience actually wants.PRACTICAL EXAMPLES FOR ANY POST: Laura shares examples for belief-sharing, team wins, and major announcements — plus, how to add immediate value in every case.KEEPING IT SUSTAINABLE (AND FUN!): Find out how to avoid burnout and maintain creativity by viewing your content calendar as a playlist, mixing practical advice, short stories, reflective questions, and wins.THE 20-SECOND “GUT CHECK”: Before you hit send, Laura’s three-question checklist (So what? Now what? Why you?) ensures your post resonates and offers real, actionable value.These best practices can help you build trust, credibility, and lasting influence with a “reader-first” mindset. You’ll walk away with fresh perspective and a practical checklist (linked in the show notes) to use before your next post.DID YOU FIND THIS HELPFUL?If you found value in this episode, share it with a friend or colleague. Laura would love to hear what resonated most, so be sure to share a review of this episode or reach out to her directly: [email protected] FOR MORE SHE SAID/SHE SAID?Listen to all episodes and access more resources: SheSaidSheSaidPodcast.com !Instagram: InstagramLinkedIn: LinkedInFacebook: FacebookContact Laura Cox Kaplan: shesaidshesaidpodcast.comEmail: [email protected] RATE AND REVIEW SHE SAID/SHE SAID PODCASTIf you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on Spotify, iTunes, GooglePlay, or wherever you listen. Your feedback helps shape future content and ensures you get more of what you love.Thank you for listening — see you next week!Note: She Said/She Said Podcast is a weekly production of She Said/She Said Media.

Episode 338: When Purpose Finds You: Using What You Have, Where You AreGuest: Yael Goodman, founder Run JLMTHIS WEEK’S TOPIC:This week, we’re exploring what it truly means to take what you have -- your skills, your heart, your story, your energy and passion -- and use it to make a difference, even in the most challenging circumstances. Host Laura Cox Kaplan is joined by Yael Goodman, an Israeli-based tour guide, storyteller, and founder of Run JLM running tours, who has inspired countless people by forging connections across faiths, histories, and trauma.Yael’s journey was forever changed by the events of October 7th, 2023, when Hamas attacked Israel. In the aftermath, Yael channeled her passion for movement, community, and healing into supporting evacuees and survivors in new and powerful ways. This episode is dedicated to the victims and hostages of October 7th, and to all seeking hope and resilience in times of crisis.ABOUT THIS WEEK’S GUEST:Yael Goodman combines her uniquely blended heritage with her work as a tour guide and religious history scholar, focusing on honoring the overlapping traditions of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Born and raised in Israel, Yael is also a passionate runner and founder of Run JLM, an innovative running tour company that invites people to “run through thousands of years of history” while connecting to the land, each other, and themselves. After October 7th, Yael repurposed her skills to nurture healing within communities of evacuees, survivors, and soldiers, founding running and movement groups that offer both physical and emotional recovery.KEY TOPICS AND WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE:THE POWER OF CONNECTION & STORYTELLING: How Yael’s upbringing at the crossroads of faith shapes her ability to connect with people from all backgrounds, make history come alive, and foster community.INNOVATION FROM ADVERSITY: Hear how Yael transformed her business after struggling with her weight ten years ago, founded running tours in Jerusalem, and how this experience prepared her to serve others in times of crisis.RESPONDING TO TRAUMA WITH PURPOSE: Following October 7th, Yael asked: “What can I give that is different?” That question transformed her business and her purpose. HEALING THROUGH ACTION: Discover how Yael, through her family’s Tani Goodman Foundation, equipped hundreds of survivors and reservists with running gear and built a network of supportive community groups that address trauma by literally and figuratively moving forward.THE IMPORTANCE OF FACTUAL UNDERSTANDING: Yael offers a historian’s perspective on current events, encouraging education and empathy, especially in the face of misinformation and misunderstanding about the war in Israel.ADVICE FOR USING WHAT YOU HAVE: Whether it’s movement, connection, or another unique skill, Yael shares wisdom for those seeking to help amid the world’s pain or their own, emphasizing starting from your authentic strengths.There is so much heart, wisdom, and actionable advice in this episode -- not only about resilience but about the power of showing up for others with the tools you already have.Please let us know what resonated most with you. We’d love to hear from you!LINKS & RESOURCES:Learn more about Yael’s foundation: Tani Goodman FoundationLOOKING FOR MORE SHE SAID/SHE SAID? You’ll find all of our episodes and content here: shesaidshesaidpodcast.comLET’S CONNECT!Instagram: Laura Cox Kaplan LinkedIn: @Laura Cox Kaplan Contact Laura Cox Kaplan: shesaidshesaidpodcast.comEmail: [email protected] RATE AND REVIEW SHE SAID/SHE SAID PODCASTYour reviews on Spotify, iTunes, GooglePlay, or wherever you listen help us tailor content so you get more of what matters to you. Please consider leaving some feedback, and sharing the episode if it moved you.Note: She Said/She Said Podcast is a weekly production of She Said/She Said Media.

337: How words shape usGuest: Lily Howard Scott, Educator, Social Emotional Learning Coach, and Author  THIS WEEK'S TOPIC:  Ever stop to consider how much influence you have in your everyday words and language? Our guest this week, educator and social-emotional learning coach Lily Howard Scott, asks us to pause and reflect on the language we choose — not just in classrooms, but in our homes, workplaces, and daily lives. From reframing “mistakes” as “brilliant mistakes,” to the simple act of calling feelings “visitors,” Lily’s approach is as practical as it is profound.Her book, The Words That Shape Us dives deep into how the ways we speak to children become the templates for their inner dialogue — shaping not only how they see themselves, but also how they learn, grow, and relate to others. Whether you’re a parent, leader, mentor, or friend, the intentional use of language can help you build trust, unlock the potential in others (and yourself!), and foster resilience.ABOUT THIS WEEK’S GUEST:  Lily Howard Scott is a renowned educator and social-emotional learning coach who supports teachers and caregivers around the country. Drawing from her decade in the classroom and a wealth of research, Lily’s mission is to empower both children and adults to use language as a tool for emotional intelligence, growth, and kindness. Her book, ”The Words That Shape Us,” has quickly become a must-read for educators, parents, and anyone looking to nurture healthier, more supportive relationships.KEY TOPICS AND WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE:  THE SCIENCE BEHIND WHY WORDS MATTER: Learn how language literally shapes the brain and influences emotional experiences, based on the latest neuroscience and social-emotional research. RETHINKING MISTAKES AS “BRILLIANT”: Discover the transformative impact of reframing mistakes as moments of learning.FEELINGS AS “VISITORS”: Borrowing from poetry and psychology, Lily discusses why referring to emotions as “feeling visitors” helps both children and adults remember that our emotions are temporary, not a permanent or defining part of us.BUILDING RESILIENCE AND PROBLEM-SOLVING: Practical tips on helping children (and grown-ups) face challenges, take risks, and stick with problems — all through the right use of language and self-talk.WHEN ENCOURAGEMENT BACKFIRES: Sometimes our best-intended praise can have unintended effects. Lily shares how to encourage in a way that supports authentic self-worth and motivation.GRATITUDE, ATTENTION, AND THE “BIRDER MINDSET”: Explore how simple, intentional language practices can strengthen gratitude, connection, and mindfulness — and how these small shifts can add up to transformative results.HELPING KIDS DEAL WITH BULLYING & HARDSHIPS: How to support children facing tough interpersonal situations — with language that empowers and protects their sense of self.There’s so much wisdom, warmth, and actionable insight in this episode. Lily’s guidance will help you become more aware of how you use your words, and the life-changing difference that can make for the people you love and lead.  What are the words or language shifts that have shaped YOU or your loved ones? I’d love to hear your stories and feedback! Connect with me on Instagram or LinkedIn, you’ll find me at Laura Cox Kaplan, or email me and the She Said/She Said team at [email protected] FOR MORE SHE SAID/SHE SAID?  Find every episode and tons of additional content at: SheSaidSheSaidPodcast.com **PLEASE RATE AND REVIEW SHE SAID/SHE SAID PODCAST**  If today’s episode resonated with you, please consider leaving us a review on Spotify, iTunes, GooglePlay, or wherever you listen! Your feedback helps us bring you more of what you love and grow our community of thoughtful, supportive listeners.**Note:** She Said/She Said Podcast is a weekly production of She Said/She Said Media

SHOW NOTESEpisode 336: Seven Ways We Can Improve Social Media (and the way we feel when we are online)Guest: (Solo Episode with Laura Cox Kaplan)ABOUT THIS EPISODEIf you’re craving a steadier. more constructive, and more uplifting way to participate online (and off), this personal, practical guide is for you!THIS WEEK’S TOPICA couple of older She Said/She Said episodes kept inexplicably resurfacing in Laura’s feed. After reaching the point of frustration, she finally slowed down and listened. What she discovered delivered exactly what she needed in a heavy moment: a reset on her why. This episode distills those reminders into clear takeaways, including several concrete ways we can help make social platforms (and our communities) healthier, kinder, and more constructive. Was the universe sending a message? Maybe. You be the judge!KEY TOPICS & WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODESlowing down to hear God and the universe! Where we started: Insight → Inspiration → Impact (Ep. 142)Three re-centering questions that form our show’s mantra and compass.Questions to ask yourself before you post, comment or respond:Is it true? Did I check the original source and context? If I can’t verify it, I don’t amplify it. Does what I’m about to post add value to someone else or is it likely to stoke fear and unrest? Am I informing, elevating, or clarifying, or just venting?Is it aligned with my values and who I aspire to be on and offline? Is it consistent with how I would interact with my neighbor, and how I would want my neighbor to interact with me?Does it strengthen relationships? Am I speaking to people, not at them? Am I trying to engage in a thoughtful and constructive manner?Am I willing to engage in good faith? If someone disagrees respectfully, will I stay curious rather than become combative?Is it critical that I post, comment or react in the moment? Consider the 24-Hour Rule. When emotions run hot, wait a day before posting. Insight often arrives in the pause.Can I make this post clearer and more succinct? Write it long. Post it short. Draft your full thought privately. Then trim it to the clearest, kindest version.Can I incorporate something positive into this post? If you’re naming a problem, pair it with something you’re grateful for or a constructive path forward.Related episode mentioned: She Said/She Said Podcast Ep. 142 — Anniversary reflections on how Insight → Inspiration → Impact form our compass, and She Said/She Said Podcast Ep. 224. LET’S CONNECT!Instagram: @LauraCoxKaplanLinkedIn: Laura Cox KaplanWebsite: shesaidshesaidpodcast.comEmail: [email protected] RATE & REVIEWIf you found this episode helpful, please leave a quick review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or wherever you listen. Your feedback helps others find the show and keeps us focused on what serves you best. Thank you!She Said/She Said Podcast is a weekly production of She Said/She Said Media. Thanks for listening! And please be sure to tag LauraCoxKaplan in your social posts if you use any of the Checklist Tips!

SHOW NOTESTitle: What to do when the world feels too heavyEpisode: 335Guest: N/A (Solo Episode with Laura Cox Kaplan)THIS WEEK'S TOPIC:This week's episode pivots from the originally planned content to address the collective weight many are feeling in the world right now. In the aftermath of the murder of Charlie Kirk, just a day before the 24th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on September 11th, host Laura Cox Kaplan invites listeners into a vulnerable, reflective conversation about how we can each find hope, resilience, and the courage to keep showing up in the face of violence, grief, and uncertainty.Laura shares a collection of practical tools and mindset shifts that have personally helped her process loss, maintain perspective, and move forward with purpose. You'll walk away with a toolkit of specific practices you can use to support yourself and those around you during heavy times.KEY TOPICS AND WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE: **Reframing for Resilience** **Tapping into Meaning** **Choosing Connection Despite Difference:** **Using Gratitude as a Counterweight to Darkness****Hope as a Muscle** **Four Actionable Micro-Practices**ABOUT THIS EPISODEThis conversation is personal, practical, and real. Laura doesn't offer easy answers, but delivers timely encouragement and a reminder that, even when we don't have it all figured out, small daily choices in how we respond to adversity truly matter-for ourselves, our families, and our communities.Whether you're a longtime listener or new to She Said/She Said, this episode offers a grounding, compassionate guide for anyone navigating uncertainty or seeking ways to be a force for good during challenging times.There is so much wisdom and heart in this episode. What resonated with you most? Please let us know! You can reach Laura and the team via the links below.LOOKING FOR MORE SHE SAID/SHE SAID?You'll find all episodes and content at: shesaidshesaidpodcast.comLET'S CONNECT!InstagramLinked InOr email us: [email protected]

Episode 334: How Social Capital and Strategic Reconnection Supercharge Your InfluenceGuest: Laura Cox Kaplan (solo episode)THIS WEEK'S TOPIC:Welcome back! After a little summer break, Laura is back behind the mic and ready to help you tap into your greatest resource: your relationships. This week, we’re talking about “social capital”—what it is, why it matters WAY more than most of us think, and super doable ways to rebuild or refresh your network, especially as you ease back into work or life after some time off (summer break, anyone?). Laura also dishes on the newly revamped She Said/She Said Podcast website, complete with new features, tools, and resources designed just for you!IN THIS EPISODE, LAURA COVERS:What social capital really means. Spoiler: it’s not about money!The science behind connection, and why your network is a HUGE factor in your happiness, resilience, and confidenceHow to use the natural transition of coming back from a break as a smooth way to reconnect with people (no awkwardness required)Simple, actionable tips to rebuild your network without overwhelm—think small, honest gestures (like a quick text, coffee date, or sharing a helpful article)Why giving first (rather than just asking) helps you earn trust and makes networking feel way less transactionalEasy ways to keep the momentum going so your social capital grows for the futureWHY THIS MATTERS:Laura dives into why strong relationships are at the core of real influence—not just likes, not just fancy job titles. She shares research from the world of positive psychology that proves human connection isn’t just “nice to have.” It’s essential, and it helps you bounce back faster and feel happier overall. Plus, you'll get specific action steps you can take today! PLUS:Laura gives a sneak peek at the totally redesigned She Said/She Said Podcast website. Please go check it out at shesaidshedsaidpodcast.com or lauracoxkaplan.com and let her know what you think (and what else you’d love to see there)!Links Mentioned:Brand Development: Tamara Edwards TE&Co.Website Design: Angela Ryan, Exotic SpeciesTHOUGHTS OR FEEDBACK?Laura wants to hear what resonated, what you’re trying, and what you’d love to learn about next. Reach out via the website, LinkedIn or Instagram—or just send an email to [email protected] MORE SHE SAID/SHE SAID:All the episodes and resources live at shesaidshedsaidpodcast.com!LET’S CONNECT!Instagram: @lauracoxkaplanLinkedIn: Laura Cox KaplanShe Said/She Said Podcast site: shesaidshedsaidpodcast.comEmail: [email protected] YOU’RE LOVING THE SHOW…We’d be so grateful if you left a quick review on your favorite podcast app. It helps more people find the show and lets us know what’s working for you!She Said/She Said Podcast is a weekly production of She Said/She Said Media.

SHOW NOTESTitle: The Strategic Value of Pressing Pause: How Breaks Build Influence & LeadershipEpisode 333 Guest: Laura Cox Kaplan (solo episode)THIS WEEK’S TOPIC: Ever notice how your best ideas often come when you stop forcing them, maybe while folding laundry or taking a walk? In this week’s solo episode, Laura Cox Kaplan dives into the powerful, science-backed value of taking intentional breaks. With summer approaching, Laura announces a pause for the podcast and shares why stepping back is not only healthy but strategic for long-term growth, clarity, and influence, especially for ambitious, mid-career women navigating change, evolution, and life’s seasons.Laura recaps a few of the year’s guest insights, from navigating the “ambition paradox” to unlocking money confidence, battling busy, and reflecting on the importance of quality over quantity, personal alignment, and modeling healthy boundaries. With wisdom from elite performers and positive psychology, this episode will inspire you to reframe rest and breaks as essential leadership tools. Plus, Laura shares a few books from her summer reading list, as well as some ways to stay connected during the show’s break.KEY TOPICS AND WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE:THE UNEXPECTED POWER OF BREAKS: Learn why pressing pause can lead to deeper creativity, better decision-making, and long-lasting influence. Laura shares scientific insights, including how even tiny breaks boost clarity and lower burnout, and why sleep (even if elusive!) is vital for mental pruning and leadership.QUALITY OVER QUANTITY: Discover how going deep matters more than doing more, and why the podcast is taking a summer break to create even stronger content for you.POSITIVE PSYCHOLOGY & PURPOSE: Laura delves into the world of positive psychology and explores how practicing what you preach, including integrating intention and mindset shifts, leads to more meaningful leadership.MODEL THE HABITS YOU WANT TO SEE: By pausing and setting boundaries publicly, you give permission for others — whether team members, colleagues, or family — to do the same. Intentional leadership can have a powerful ripple effect.RECENT GUEST HIGHLIGHTS: A look back at wisdom from recent guests, including:Therapist Ann Welsh on the “Ambition Paradox”Dina Powell McCormick on mentorship and her new book “Who Believed In You?”Insights on overcoming the “broken rung” with Lareina Yee of McKinseyAllison Wood Brooks on mastering the art of conversationReflections from our first male guests who share deeply personal, female-centered storiesSUMMER READING LIST Laura’s top picks for reflection & growth:Transitions by William Bridges and Susan BridgesPeak by Anders Ericsson and Robert PooleDo Nothing by Celeste HeadleeLET’S CONNECT!Instagram: @lauracoxkaplanLinkedIn: Laura Cox KaplanWebsite & contact: shesaidshesaidpodcast.comEmail: [email protected] FOR MORE SHE SAID/SHE SAID? You’ll find all episodes and past content at shesaidshesaidpodcast.com and new video content on our YouTube channel!PLEASE RATE AND REVIEW SHE SAID/SHE SAID PODCAST If you enjoy the show, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play, YouTube, or wherever you listen! Your feedback helps others find us and allows us to keep bringing you what matters most.SPECIAL OFFERS FOR LISTENERS:20% off Eric Javits sun hats (promo code: shesaid)Exclusive savings at Cozy Earth (promo code: shesaid)MID-YEAR REVIEW WORKSHEET: Downloadable Mid-Year Review WorksheetNote: She Said/She Said Podcast is a weekly production of She Said She Said Media. The show will return refreshed and ready in the fall. Until then, enjoy our full catalog of 333 episodes and a restorative summer!

SHOW NOTES  Episode 332: “The Strategic Genius of Taylor Swift: Building Influence Through Storytelling, Reinvention, and Resilience”  Guest: Kevin Evers, Senior Editor at Harvard Business Review, Author of “There’s Nothing Like This: The Strategic Genius of Taylor Swift”THIS WEEK’S TOPIC: What does it take to go from a teenage singer in a Tennessee mall to building one of the most powerful empires in the music industry, and what can ambitious professionals in any field learn from that journey? This week’s conversation is a surprising and powerful masterclass in strategy, delivered through the lens of Taylor Swift’s career.Joining Laura is Kevin Evers, Senior Editor at Harvard Business Review and author of the new book that unpacks the business and strategic brilliance behind Taylor Swift’s rise. They break down the bold moves, storytelling strategies, and community-building tactics that turned setbacks into springboards, and created a playbook for influence, resilience, and staying power.This is not just an episode for Swifties and music fans. Whether you’re building a business, leading a team, or charting your next career move, Kevin and Laura tease out actionable lessons on storytelling, authenticity, adaptation, reinvention, handling criticism, and more. If you want clarity and confidence to pursue your biggest goals, you’ll find it here.ABOUT THIS WEEK’S GUEST:  Kevin Evers is a Senior Editor at Harvard Business Review, where he acquires and edits non-fiction books on a wide array of business topics. With more than a decade of experience shaping big-idea books, Kevin brings an expert’s eye to the intersection of business research and real-world application. In his new book, “There’s Nothing Like the Strategic Genius of Taylor Swift,” he analyzes how Swift’s mindset, risk-taking, and storytelling have redefined success and impact in the modern era. KEY TOPICS AND WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE: – THE FOUNDER’S MENTALITY: How Taylor Swift approached her career with the clarity, persistence, and customer (fan) focus of a true entrepreneur—starting in her teens, breaking the “rules” of Nashville, and carving a space for young women in country music.– STRATEGIC STORYTELLING: Why world-building and narrative control set Taylor apart from her peers (and what artists and professionals alike can learn about actively shaping—not leaving—your own story to chance).– AUTHENTICITY (AND ITS LIMITS): Taylor’s model for being genuine while still adapting and growing. Kevin and Laura discuss how vulnerability and ambiguity in her lyrics build deep fan connection, but also how staying “too authentic” can become a “cage.”– THE ART OF THE SLOW PIVOT: What it means to “surprise but not shock” your audience. Hear how Taylor’s methodical reinvention (from country, to pop, to indie, and beyond) kept her evolving without alienating her core community.– RESILIENCE & REVERSE NARRATIVE: Taylor’s masterclass in handling criticism: from the infamous Kanye West interruption to public backlash and how she transformed negative moments and personal/professional loss into creative (and commercial) wins.– COMMUNITY, COLLABORATION, & TEAM LOYALTY: A look at how Taylor builds trust, loyalty, and longevity with close collaborators, team members, and fans—while still making tough pivots.– PRODUCTIVITY IN THE ATTENTION ECONOMY: How Taylor adapted her creative output for the streaming age—shifting from a “precious” approach to prolific production, and what that means for anyone looking to sustain growth after a career plateau.There’s so much to take away from this conversation, whether you want to own your narrative, build lasting influence, or flip setbacks into strategic advantages. We would love to hear your take! Reach out and join the conversation! SPECIAL OFFERS FOR She Said/She Said Podcast LISTENERS:Get 20% off your order at Eric Javits.com using this link has the promo code already built in. Or, enter SheSaid at checkout.Get 41% off your order at Cozy Earth. The promo is built into this link! Or, enter promo code SheSaid at checkout. The Women’s Chelsea Set is a fan fav!All proceeds from sales are reinvested into She Said/She Said Podcast, so you’re getting something nice AND reinvesting in something you believe in and support! Talk about a win/win! Thanks, friend! I am so grateful for your support of the show! FEEDBACK: I hope you loved this episode, and I’d love to hear what resonated with you! DM me @lauraCoxKaplan on Instagram, LinkedIn, or Facebook. You can also reach out via shesaidshesaidpodcast.com or email me directly at: [email protected] you’re enjoying She Said/She Said Podcast, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, iTunes, or wherever you listen. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and continue to bring you content that inspires and informs!LOOKING FOR MORE SHE SAID/SHE SAID? You’ll find all of my episodes and content here!LET’S CONNECT! –  Instagram,  Linked In,  Facebook.– Contact Laura Cox Kaplan: shesaidshesaidpodcast.com– Email: [email protected]**PLEASE RATE AND REVIEW SHE SAID/SHE SAID PODCAST**Please consider sharing some love in the form of a review of She Said/She Said Podcast on Spotify, iTunes, GooglePlay, or wherever you listen to this podcast. Reviews help us improve the content so you get more of what you enjoy and are looking for from She Said/She Said Podcast. Many thanks! **She Said/She Said Podcast is a weekly production of She Said/She Said Media.**

SHOW NOTES331. From Calvin Klein to Kaftans: Reinventing Identity and Career SuccessGuest: Sue Sartor, designer and fashion brand founderTOPICS: Entrepreneurship, Reinvention, Authentic BrandingThis episode is part of our 2025 She Said/She Said Podcast + The Southern C collaboration series, highlighting stories of intentional growth, entrepreneurship, and brand-building. Sue Sartor’s journey is a compelling example of how personal clarity, authentic branding, and high-touch customer engagement can build lasting influence, especially when fueled by purpose and reinvention.THIS WEEK’S GUEST:Sue Sartor is the founder and designer behind the joyful and distinctive fashion brand that bears her name. Known for her handcrafted, small-batch dresses and caftans, Sue has built a brand rooted in authenticity, artistry, and individuality. After launching her fashion career at Calvin Klein, she stepped away to raise her family—and returned in her late 40s to create something entirely her own.KEY THEMES IN THIS EPISODE:How Sue reignited her career and creative passion in midlife—and why your timeline doesn’t have to be traditional to be successful.Why staying true to your brand identity (and putting on creative blinders) helped her stand out in a crowded marketplace.How authenticity and focus became essential brand values, especially when navigating copycats, scaling challenges, and industry uncertainty.How working with her daughter added creative fuel to her business—and offered healing and connection through collaboration.Why hands-on, high-touch customer service is at the core of her brand, even when it’s not the easiest path.How to think about seasons of life, identity, and legacy—and redefine what success looks like at every stage.Bonus: Sue’s unexpected but powerful relationship advice on evolving with your partner and honoring creativity in long-term commitment.EPISODE LINKS:Website: suesartor.comInstagram: @suesartor  Learn more about The Southern C: thesouthernc.comSPECIAL OFFERS FOR She Said/She Said Podcast LISTENERS:Get 20% off your order at Eric Javits.com using this link has the promo code already built in. Or, enter SheSaid at checkout.Get 41% off your order at Cozy Earth. The promo is built into this link! Or, enter promo code SheSaid at checkout. The Women’s Chelsea Set is a fan fav!All proceeds from sales are reinvested into She Said/She Said Podcast, so you’re getting something nice AND reinvesting in something you believe in and support! Talk about a win/win! Thanks, friend! I am so grateful for your support of the show!FEEDBACK:I hope you loved this episode, and I’d love to hear what resonated with you! DM me @lauraCoxKaplan on Instagram, LinkedIn, or Facebook. You can also reach out via shesaidshesaidpodcast.com or email me directly at: [email protected] you’re enjoying She Said/She Said Podcast, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, iTunes, or wherever you listen. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and continue to bring you content that inspires and informs!