Aspire with Emma Grede

Emma’s debut book, Start With Yourself, is out today. This is the episode she’s been building toward since the very beginning of Aspire.  She’s doing something she’s never done on this podcast before. She’s taking on your questions about what’s at the heart of the book, including:  The core ideas behind her framework for work and life Why this isn’t just a book for someone wanting to start a business  What she’d say to the woman who’s been putting herself last for too long The uncomfortable truths she had to face about her own thinking before she could put them on paper for anyone else Then she reads from the book for the first time anywhere, about a moment that completely changed her mindset and became the reason she had to write it. If you’ve felt stuck or scared to go after the next thing, Start With Yourself is for you. It’s available here. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What does it mean to build something so successful that it outgrows you, and then start again from nothing with your name legally off the table? Bobbi Brown built one of the most iconic beauty companies in the world. She was 37 when she sold it, stayed for 22 years, then eventually pushed out of the business that carried her name. She waited out a 25-year non-compete, and on the day the clock ran out, she launched Jones Road—at 63, with six products, no outside investors, and a completely different playbook.  Bobbi shares: What it really costs to sell your name (and whether she’d do it again) Why getting fired from the brand she built was the best thing that ever happened to her The difference between building something massive and building something that’s yours The social media strategy behind Jones Road and why it works The leadership lesson she’s still learning at 68 and what confidence means after decades of trying to be someone she’s not Have you ever built something—a business, a career, an identity—and had to walk away from it? What did starting over teach you? Tell us in the comments. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Emma sits down with Kimora Lee –  fashion icon, entrepreneur, and founder — to talk about building one of the most influential brands in fashion and the lessons she learned about power, ownership, and knowing her worth. Kimora helped build Baby Phat into a cultural phenomenon, but behind the success were hard truths about being in rooms, contributing at the highest level, and still not getting what she was owed.  Over time, she learned how to navigate deals, advocate for herself, and stop accepting less than she deserved. Now she has Baby Phat back and this time, it's hers. Kimora shares:  Why being in the room didn't always mean having power The hard lessons she learned about money, deals and ownership  What she wishes she'd known before she signed anything How she learned to stop settling and start advocating for herself Why getting Baby Phat back means more now than it did the first time. Where do you need to stop settling and start taking your place? Drop it in the comments — we're reading. And subscribe to Aspire with Emma Grede so you don't miss what's next. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Emma sits down with Cardi B, global superstar, entrepreneur, and now founder, to talk about what actually changed once she understood where her power sits. Cardi didn’t come into this industry with a co-sign. She came in figuring it out in real time, investing her own money, navigating bad deals, and slowly realizing she’d been making everyone else rich before herself. Now, as a two-time Grammy winner and a mother of four, she’s launching Grow-Good, her own haircare brand, and stepping into a new level of ownership. Cardi shares: Why getting burned early became her best business education What she looks for in partners now, and what she won’t tolerate How she shifted from quick money to ownership and equity Why this moment feels urgent, and what she’s building toward How she’s balancing motherhood, relationships, and ambition Where do you need to stop settling and start taking control? Drop it in the comments, we’re reading. And subscribe to Aspire with Emma Grede so you don’t miss what’s next. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Monique Rodriguez built Mielle Organics from her basement into a billion-dollar brand and did it without a blueprint. In this episode of Aspire, Monique shares the real story behind building one of the fastest-growing beauty brands in the world–from bootstrapping with her husband’s paycheck to risking their home, navigating criticism, and ultimately selling to Procter & Gamble while remaining CEO.  But this isn't just a business story. It started with loss, a leap of faith, and a decision to bet on herself before she felt ready. This is a conversation about what it really takes to build something meaningful… and what happens when you finally reach the other side. In this episode, Monique shares: Why you don’t need to feel ready before making a life-changing decision How personal adversity can reshape your ambition and clarity What founders get wrong about scaling too early How to know when it’s time to bring in experienced operators Why building with the end in mind changes how you run your company The real risks founders take behind the scenes How to navigate criticism as your company grows What it actually means to lead after a major acquisition How to protect your vision while growing at scale Why success doesn’t always eliminate the feeling of having something to prove  Monique Rodriguez’s story is proof that you don’t have to be ready to start, you just have to be willing. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Allie K. Miller has been working in AI for nearly 20 years, and she says most of us aren't even close to using these tools to their full potential. Today, she's going to teach us exactly how to change the way we work, think, and operate with AI. Allie built teams at IBM and Amazon, advises companies like Google, OpenAI, and Salesforce, and TIME named her one of the 100 Most Influential People in AI. Nearly two million people follow her because she's one of the clearest voices translating AI for people who aren't engineers, which is why she's the right person to have this conversation with. In this episode, Emma and Allie get into the practical, actionable side of AI that most people never hear about—from the systems Allie has built to run her life and business, to the mistakes that keep most people stuck at the surface level. You'll learn: Why treating AI like a search engine is the biggest mistake people make and how to start treating it like an employee who works for you around the clock The prompting shift from "senior analyst" to "CEO" that changes the quality of everything you get back How to build a context document about your life, business, and beyond that makes every AI interaction more useful The automated briefing system Allie uses to manage her calendar, goals, and priorities every morning The study that shows how using AI the right way can make you more creative What's driving the 25% gender gap in AI adoption and what women can do about it right now If you've been holding back from using AI because this all feels overwhelming, or no one's ever taught you how to use it well, start here. What's the first thing you're going to try with AI after this conversation? Drop it in the comments and come back and tell us how it went. For more conversations like this on business, leadership, and leveling up how you work, subscribe to Aspire with Emma Grede so you never miss what's next. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, Emma sits down with financial educator and entrepreneur and everyone’s RichBFF, Vivian Tu to unpack why women are still the least likely to talk openly about money  and what it ultimately costs them.  Vivian grew up translating bills for her immigrant parents and then went on to earn six figures on Wall Street before walking away from a $625K salary to build something on her own terms. She knows exactly what financial confidence looks like from the inside  and what keeps most women from getting there. Vivian shares:  How to negotiate a raise and actually win it Why stability has to come before wealth (and how to build it) The quiet ways lifestyle inflation erodes your progress How to think strategically about benefits, taxes, and retirement The mindset shift that separates earners from builders Why women talking openly about money changes everything This isn't a conversation about becoming rich. It's about becoming someone who knows what they're worth and stops leaving it on the table. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Emma has known Rich Kleiman for 20 years. In all that time, they've never talked about where he actually came from, until now. What came next was one of the most honest conversations we've had on the podcast.  The hardest story to change is the one you tell yourself. For Rich, it wasn't a lesson,  it was survival. He grew up navigating a volatile home on the Upper West Side. With a mother battling addiction and no one to watch him, Rich was left to figure life out on his own.  Today he manages Kevin Durant's business empire, has built Boardroom from scratch, and is one of the most respected operators at the intersection of sports, music, and culture.  In this conversation, he and Emma get into how chaos became his competitive advantage, what it really takes to build a partnership that lasts, and why legacy means more to him now than money ever did. Rich shares:  How growing up around instability shaped his instincts in business. How his ability to navigate chaos made him a better leader. Why notoriety and success aren't the same thing  Why the stories you tell yourself matter – and how truth outways comfort.  Why making peace with your past changes how you move through the world.  What's the story you keep telling yourself? Drop it in the comments — we'd love to hear from you. And don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode of Aspire with Emma Grede. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sometimes you can reach a point in your career when everything looks right on paper, but feels completely wrong.  And wanting something different doesn’t make you ungrateful, it signals growth.  But the next step is where a lot of people make emotional decisions. They quit without having a plan, waiting to feel ready before they make a move, or talking themselves out of it entirely. In this episode, Emma talks about what a real career pivot actually looks like. Not the fantasy version where you walk away from everything and magically figure it out, but the strategic version where you build on what you’ve already done. She gets into how to tell the difference between burnout and a real signal that it’s time to change, why the best pivots are usually closer than you think, and how to move forward without starting from zero. You'll learn: The Pivot Audit:  a framework for making big career moves strategically How to de-risk a career change before you take the leap Why being "too late" is a myth and what the data actually says What's one part of your career you've quietly outgrown? Drop it in the comments — we'd love to hear from you. And don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode of Aspire with Emma Grede. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The truth is, most of us weren’t taught how to manage our money, we were taught not to talk about it.  From salary transparency and investing to honest discussions about debt and risk, women are left out of the conversation. Today’s guest, Tori Dunlap, is trying to change that. She’s built HerFirst $100K into a multi-million dollar education platform by helping women reshape their relationship with money and start building wealth.  In this conversation Emma and Tori get into the real reasons why so many women avoid looking at their bank accounts, how money narratives impact our decisions before we are even old enough to understand them and why waiting until you're ready to invest is ultimately costing you your future.  Tori also speaks candidly about why she believes women in relationships should keep separate accounts, how the trad wife trend can be misleading and why getting rich isn’t something women should ever feel guilty about.  You’ll learn:  • Why “I’m bad at math” is keeping women broke • What most of us get wrong about investing and how to do it right • What today’s economic uncertainty actually means for your money • Why financial education is the highest-return investment you can make What's your biggest money block right now? Drop it in the comments,  we'd love to hear from you. And don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode of Aspire with Emma Grede. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mori Taheripour is one of the leading negotiation experts in the country,  but her most important lesson may be this: negotiation has nothing to do with conflict and everything to do with knowing your worth.  The Wharton professor has spent the last 22 years teaching people how to ask for what they want, not by using scripts or tactics, but by rebuilding the self-belief that life slowly chips away at.  In this episode, Emma and Mori get into the fear, guilt, people-pleasing and inner work that sits at the heart of every negotiation you’ll ever have.  They explore:  Why negotiation is a life skill,  not a boardroom tactic How fear of rejection stops us from asking for more Why people pleasers struggle to advocate for themselves How to stop taking no personally Why your biggest negotiation is always with yourself Why leverage is often perception  How to ask for more without guilt or apology  This is the episode for every woman who has ever talked herself out of asking. You already have what it takes and Mori explains exactly why. What's your biggest negotiation challenge right now? Drop it in the comments,  we'd love to hear from you. And don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode of Aspire with Emma Grede. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Kelly Wearstler is one of the most influential designers in the world,  but her real genius may be how she turned taste into a scalable multi-million dollar business. Over the years, she’s built a company that stretches far beyond interiors, expanding into product, licensing, creative direction, and media  all while staying closely involved in the work itself. In this conversation, we get into the structure, decision-making, and resilience behind that growth. In this episode, Emma explores: How Kelly built a 60-person studio Why she believes in “sequence” over speed The commercial strategy behind creative work How she’s using AI within her company  Investing in hierarchy and leadership Knowing when to walk away  Why longevity matters more than hype This is a conversation about building something that evolves and making sure it’s designed to endure. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Interviewing isn’t a personality test. It’s a skill, and it’s one you can learn. In this Career Girl’s Guide episode, Emma breaks down what actually makes someone stand out in the room. Drawing from years of interviewing — on both sides of the table — she shares the mindset shifts and practical tools that separate average candidates from unforgettable ones. In this episode, you’ll learn:  How to research like a strategist  How to uncover a role’s hidden pain The three-part storytelling formula that works • How to speak about failure with authority • Salary rules that change your earning trajectory • The questions that signal leadership This isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being understood — and positioned. Career girlies don’t audition. We position. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today on Aspire, Emma sits down with Jessie Inchauspé, known to millions as The Glucose Goddess. What started as a personal health experiment turned into three bestselling books, a global community, and an eight-figure business — built from the ground up, without outside investors. But this conversation isn’t about going viral. It’s about control. Emma and Jessie talk about the very intentional decision to bootstrap, what it actually takes to protect your freedom as a founder, and why Jessie would rather move slower than compromise on quality. They get into building around real intellectual property instead of trends — and why trusting your own proof can be more powerful than chasing scale. In this episode, Jessie shares: Why she chose not to raise capital How staying independent shaped every major decision The trade-offs that come with slower, intentional growth Why she refuses to sacrifice quality for margin How motherhood made her more focused, not softer How a simple personal breakthrough can evolve into a global platform Yes, they talk about her famous glucose hacks. But more importantly, they talk about conviction and what happens when you decide something that worked for you might actually help millions of others. This episode is for founders who care about freedom, longevity, and building on their own terms. If it resonates, like, comment, and subscribe for more honest conversations with leaders shaping the future of business. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Today on Aspire, Emma sits down with Laney Crowell, founder and CEO of Saie – a brand that consistently has seven products ranked in the top ten at Sephora.  Emma and Laney talk about what it really took to build Saie from scratch: the mindset shifts, the operational discipline, the hiring decisions, and the resilience required to scale without a traditional founder background. In this episode, Laney shares: Why rejection isn’t personal and how to use it as fuel What raising capital as a woman actually requires The importance of reference checks and hiring intentionally Why refining consistently beats rushing growth The importance of building a community alongside the brand  The rewards and challenges of building a business as a new mother This episode is for anyone who feels “not qualified enough” or “not ready yet” and is building anyway. If this conversation resonated, leave a comment and subscribe for more honest conversations with founders, leaders, and builders on Aspire. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Issa Rae is entering a new chapter — not from the bottom, but from experience. After disrupting modern television with shows like HBO’s Insecure, building business across multiple industries, and creating some of the most culturally resonant work of the last decade, Issa sits down with Emma for a reflective conversation about power, execution, and what it really means to build something that lasts. Issa isn’t into chasing momentum. She’s moving discernment— navigating the industry on her own terms and only committing to work she genuinely believes in.  In this episode, Issa opens up about: Why ideas are meaningless without execution The difference between visibility and real power What it means to “prove yourself again” — even at the top How she decides what not to do in this phase of her career Why money equals creative freedom, not validation The discipline of saying no, protecting her voice, and building on her own terms Her desire to continue to make people’s favorite content.  Issa also reflects on leadership, ownership, and the responsibility that comes with influence — especially in an industry that feels like it’s regressing.  This conversation is for anyone navigating a new chapter, resisting comfort, or learning that longevity requires a different kind of courage. What resonated most with you from Issa’s journey — her discipline, her clarity, or her refusal to rush?  Share your thoughts in the comments and subscribe for more honest conversations on Aspire. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Angelica Nwandu shouldn’t be here...not according to the statistics. After surviving the unimaginable loss of her mother at age six and growing up in foster care, she rebuilt her world from scratch. Today, she stands as the powerhouse founder behind The Shade Room, one of the most influential media platforms in culture. In this rare intimate conversation, Angelica opens up to Emma about: -Surviving childhood trauma and how adaptability became her superpower -Growing up across wildly different homes—from Inglewood to Bel Air—and how that shaped her ambition -The accidental birth of The Shade Room—and how she built a media empire out of nothing -What it really takes to scale, evolve, and lead a company with cultural influence -Why ownership matters, and the crucial shift she’s making from frugality to growth -The emotional toll of running a platform at the center of culture—and why she’s ready for her next chapter Angelica also addresses the controversy and scrutiny The Shade Room has faced over the years — including critics who say the platform can sometimes tear down the same community it seeks to uplift. She speaks candidly about how she balances impact, responsibility, and evolution as the brand grows. Angelica’s story is proof that you can start over, build again, and create something bigger than yourself—even when no one sees your potential yet. If you’re a woman navigating career pivots, big dreams, second chances, or the pressure to “figure it out,” this conversation will stay with you. What part of Angelica’s journey inspired you the most — her resilience, her reinvention, or her vision for the future of media? Drop a comment below. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this powerful conversation, Emma sits down with Simon Sinek to redefine what leadership actually looks like in today’s world. Known for shaping how millions think about purpose and influence, Simon goes deeper than theory, challenging the outdated idea that leadership is about authority, titles, or control. Instead, he breaks down why real leadership is rooted in responsibility: the responsibility to help people feel safe, supported, and able to do their best work. Together, Emma and Simon explore why so many people feel disconnected from their jobs, why traditional leadership models are failing, and what it really means to lead in service of others. Simon reflects on his own journey to finding purpose, the discomfort that came with it, and why clarity—not charisma—is the foundation of trust, loyalty, and lasting success. This episode is a grounded, honest look at leadership without ego, purpose without performance, and the new rules required to build cultures—and lives—that actually work. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN: Why leadership isn’t about being in charge, it’s about taking responsibility for people How helping people is the true job of a leader Why so many leaders get it wrong, even with good intentions What it really means to “find your why” and keep it in balance The difference between authority and trust Why great leaders are made, not born How to lead without burning out yourself or your team The simple mindset shift that creates loyalty, safety, and long-term success Why service not power is the foundation of meaningful leadership To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Why do ambitious moms feel like they’re failing even when everything looks successful from the outside? In this enlightening episode of Aspire, Emma sits down with parenting expert and #1 New York Times Bestselling Author, Dr. Becky Kennedy for a conversation about motherhood, ambition, guilt, and what kids actually need from us. Dr. Becky breaks down why working moms feel stretched so thin, how culture has conditioned women to absorb everyone else’s emotions, and why so many parents secretly believe they’re “not enough.” She explains why emotion regulation is the most important skill we can model for our children, why discomfort is essential for kids’ growth, and how “mom guilt” has been completely misunderstood. Together, Emma and Dr. Becky dive into: Why ambitious moms feel like they’re winning at work but failing at home The real definition of guilt — and why most “mom guilt” isn’t guilt at all How convenience culture has robbed kids of frustration tolerance Why kids don’t need selfless martyrs — they need sturdy leaders The danger of absorbing everyone else’s emotions How to stop judging your parenting by your child’s behavior What to do when you’re overwhelmed, burnt out, or in the spiral How parents can learn, grow, and lead with confidence This is the episode every working parent needs to watch. You are not failing,  and Dr. Becky explains exactly why.   Did this conversation hit home for you? Drop a comment below.  We’d love to hear your thoughts and your own experiences with ambition and mom guilt.  Don't forget to subscribe to the channel so you never miss an episode of Aspire with Emma Grede. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What if the smallest decisions you make today determine who you become in 2026? In this powerful New Year conversation, James Clear — author of Atomic Habits, the global phenomenon with over 25 million copies sold — sits down with Emma to break down the real psychology of habits, identity, and long-term success. Whether you're trying to reset your routines, build discipline, or reinvent your life this year, this episode gives you the blueprint. James reveals:-Why “every action is a vote for the person you wish to become”-The invisible mistakes that sabotage your habits-How to escape bad habit loops without relying on motivation-Why the next hour matters just as much as the next decade -How to build habits that are obvious, attractive, easy, and satisfying-The science behind consistency (and why starting is the real superpower)-Why “if you’re struggling to improve, the problem isn’t you — it’s your system”-What leaders, founders, and top performers do daily to stay ahead-Why identity is both your greatest advantage… and your biggest obstacle-How to make habit change FUN  Emma also opens up about her own struggles with habits, discipline, and energy — and James responds with practical tools, mindset shifts, and game-changing frameworks you can start using today. This is more than a conversation — it’s your 2026 reset, your system reboot, and your reminder that you’re far more capable than you think. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this deeply honest conversation, Mel Robbins sits down with Emma for one of the most raw, generous, and energizing interviews she’s ever given. Fresh off the global success of The Let Them Theory and hosting one of the world’s biggest podcasts, Mel opens up about what’s really behind her “overnight” rise: 16 years of unseen work, fierce mission-driven clarity, and a relentless commitment to helping people live better lives.  Together, Emma and Mel unpack everything from success, purpose, jealousy as a directional tool, and the truth about staying grounded when the world explodes around you. Mel shares the surprising mindset practices that changed her life, the one metric she actually tracks in her business, how to build something lasting in a noisy world, and why she believes your next chapter can begin today...no matter your age or circumstances.  They also go deep on Mel’s new phase as an entrepreneur, the behind-the-scenes story of building her media company, and the launch of her first consumer product, Pure Genius, a clinical-grade protein shot years in the making. This episode is packed with wisdom, practical tools, and the kind of real talk that will keep you motivated this year. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN: -Why success is timing + mission + relentless consistency -How jealousy can reveal your true path -The #1 mistake creators and entrepreneurs make -The mindset shift Mel uses every single morning -How to stop obsessing about other people’s opinions -Why your biggest chapter may still be ahead of you -The truth about money, debt, and rebuilding from zero -How Mel built a top global podcast without chasing virality -The origin story behind Mel’s new product launch, Pure Genius What hit home for you? Leave a comment with your favorite moment or insight from Mel! And don’t forget to subscribe—it truly helps us grow this community and bring you more powerful conversations. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How does a doctor with zero beauty training build one of the most influential skincare brands in the world? In this episode of Aspire, Emma Grede sits down with Dr. Barbara Sturm — the founder behind a global, anti-inflammatory skincare empire — to reveal the true story you’ve never heard.   Dr. Sturm opens up about the bullets she dodged, the bets she made, and the risks that almost broke her. From being dismissed by the beauty industry to scaling a brand from €350 to a brand valued at over a billion dollars. Dr. Sturm shares the mindset, the science, and the steps it took to build something no one believed was possible.   You’ll learn: -How she built a global brand without investors -The mindset every ambitious woman needs to scale -What she wishes every founder knew before starting -Why she never used retinol,  and what she does instead -The anti-inflammatory approach that changed the industry -The moment she realized the world was finally listening   If you’re an entrepreneur, a skincare obsessive, or a woman building something big — this conversation will change the way you think about success, aging, and what’s actually possible. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

How does building a strong network help propel you in your career and business life? This mini-episode of Aspire with Emma Grede, answers that very question.  After listening, you’ll walk away with a clear understanding of what a network actually is, why it matters, and most importantly how you can create it for yourself, from where you are with what you have. We’ll also touch on the importance of being an active, valuable part of people’s networks.  Because the truth is, it’s not just about how your network shows up for you, it’s also about how you show up for your network.  In this episode, you’ll learn: The distinction between networking and building a real network  Why feedback is a gift and how to actively seek it The importance of getting out of your own way and putting your ego to the side How to actively be a part of someone else’s network.  Why networks naturally evolve over time. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Emma sits down with bestselling author and entrepreneur Sahil Bloom to unpack the five types of wealth that actually determine whether your life feels meaningful or painfully empty.   Sahil opens up about the real turning point in his life: chasing external success, hitting every traditional milestone, and still feeling like something was deeply wrong. As he tells Emma, he was “winning the game”,  yet completely losing himself.  From that gut-punch wake-up call came a complete life reset  and the insights that became his New York Times bestseller The Five Types of Wealth. Sahil breaks down each type for Emma (Time, Social, Mental, Physical, and Financial) and explains why money is actually the least important of them all.   This episode is an invitation to pause, to question, and to finally reconsider the metrics that have been running your life. Because the path to a more meaningful future starts with the choices you make today.   Tell us which type of wealth you’re choosing to build next, and don’t forget to subscribe for more inspiring episodes of Aspire with Emma Grede. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this solo episode, Emma Grede looks back on the conversations that shaped her most in the first year of Aspire. From billion-dollar founders to cultural icons to the people closest to her, Emma revisits the moments that shifted her thinking, changed her routine, and genuinely shook her this year.  These five lessons span money, mindset, ambition, career, and emotional resilience. Together, they reveal a truth Emma returns to constantly: success is a lifelong practice of learning, unlearning, and returning to what matters.  If you’ve been feeling stuck, rushed, overwhelmed, or unsure of your next step, this episode is a recalibration. Which of the five lessons hit you the hardest? Drop your biggest takeaway in the comments below, and if this episode moved you, make sure you subscribe so you never miss the conversations that help you grow, thrive, and aspire. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

You’re doing it all, the work, the family, the goals, but somehow, it still doesn’t feel like enough. Psychiatrist Dr. Judith Joseph joins Emma to unpack high-functioning depression — the hidden burnout behind success. They break down why overachievers feel empty even when they’re thriving, how “pathological productivity” keeps us stuck, and the simple science of finding real joy again.   Watch to learn:   -What high-functioning depression really looks like -Why ambition can become avoidance -How to feel joy without giving up your drive   If this conversation resonates, tell us what part hit home for you in the comments — and make sure to subscribe so you never miss an episode. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Have you recently become a new founder and find yourself asking the question: Where should I spend my money when I’m just starting out? What matters most in the beginning, and what can wait? This mini-episode of Aspire with Emma Grede, brought to you by Shopify, will help you answer those questions. On today’s pod, Emma will help you decide which areas of your new business need attention and which areas can wait. When you’re building a brand from scratch, every decision counts. The way you invest in the earliest days has a massive impact on what your business becomes. Luckily, Shopify is a platform that actually lets you put your time and money toward the things that matter. Stay focused on your customer and product while Shopify helps you streamline all the decisions only you can make as a founder.  In this episode you’ll learn why: -Getting early products or prototypes into the hands of potential customers is one of the most important things you can do as a startup. -Social media, PR or a launch event alone will not create longevity or customer loyalty.  -Investing in things your customer will actually feel has a lasting impact. -There's a big difference between what looks valuable and what is valuable. If you’ve been thinking about starting something of your own, Shopify can help you take that first step. It’s built to make turning an idea into a business simple—from setting up your store to handling payments, inventory, and shipping. That way, you can stay focused on what really matters: bringing your vision to life. Explore what’s possible at shopify.com/aspire To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What separates the entrepreneurs who start… from the ones who win? Harley Finkelstein (President of Shopify and the man who has worked with millions of founders) sits down with Emma Grede to reveal the hard-earned truths behind building a business that lasts. From the real reason most people never act on their ideas, to why the “golden age of entrepreneurship” is happening right now, Harley breaks down the mindset, tools, and strategy that turn dreamers into doers. In this conversation, Harley shares: -Why execution matters more than ideas -How to start a business with no money, no network, and no experience -The habits shared by the most successful founders on Shopify -Why the cost of failure has never been lower -What it takes to scale a business in today’s creator economy -The mindset shift every entrepreneur must make to succeed Emma and Harley go deep on the courage, grit, and resourcefulness needed to build something from nothing — and why someone watching this right now could be the next billion-dollar founder. If you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a builder, or someone sitting on an idea you’ve been too afraid to start… this episode is your blueprint. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What does it take to turn obsession into a billion-dollar beauty empire? In this episode of Aspire with Emma Grede, global makeup icon Charlotte Tilbury sits down with Emma to share how she went from a young girl with a dream to building one of the most powerful and influential beauty brands in the world. Charlotte opens up about the mindset behind her success — how belief, obsession, and relentless innovation helped her disrupt an overcrowded industry and create products the world didn’t even know it needed. She reveals the lessons she’s learned about leadership, confidence, and self-worth, and the unshakable drive that made her unstoppable. If you’ve ever doubted yourself, hit a wall, or wondered how to keep believing when no one else does — this conversation will change how you think about success. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Do you have a spark of an idea that feels like it has potential? This mini-episode of Aspire with Emma Grede, brought to you by Shopify, will help you realize if your spark has the potential to turn into a flame. On today’s pod, Emma offers solid steps to begin realizing your idea’s possibility. From identifying what problem your idea is solving to differentiating yourself from a crowded market, Emma guides you through the right questions to ask. Being an entrepreneur doesn’t mean changing your circumstances in a day...It’s a calculated journey that requires a step-by-step approach to test and learn. This is where a tool like Shopify starts to come in handy. Shopify isn’t just a place to sell things—it’s a platform that helps you test your idea. In this episode you’ll learn how to: -Name the problem your idea is solving to help people care about your product -Identifying your audience and asking yourself how willing are you to dedicate the time and effort -What can I bring to this solution that will set it above the rest?  -What sets you apart from the competition, your difference is your power.  If you’ve been thinking about starting something of your own, Shopify can help you take that first step. It’s built to make turning an idea into a business simple—from setting up your store to handling payments, inventory, and shipping. That way, you can stay focused on what really matters: bringing your vision to life. Explore what’s possible at shopify.com/aspire To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Reese Witherspoon may be known as America’s sweetheart — but behind the scenes, she’s built a billion-dollar empire that changed Hollywood for women everywhere. In this episode of Aspire, Emma Grede sits down with Reese to talk about the moment she stopped waiting for permission, the lessons she learned about money and ownership, and what it really takes to pivot in your career when everything looks successful from the outside — but you know you’re meant for more. From her first acting gig at 14 to founding Hello Sunshine and selling it for nearly a billion dollars, Reese opens up about: -How to recognize when it’s time to make a change -Why independence — not wealth — is real power -The biggest money mistakes women make (and how to avoid them) -What it means to truly bet on yourself If you’ve ever felt stuck, under-valued, or ready for your next chapter, this conversation will remind you: you are your own best investment. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Have you ever wanted to start a business but told yourself, not now, it’s not the right time? This mini-episode of Aspire with Emma Grede, brought to you by Shopify, might help you realize, there’s no perfect time to start a business. On today’s pod, Emma shares why she decided to become an entrepreneur and offers key insights from her journey over the years. From tips on how to discover your “why” to the importance of a platform that can support you, Emma reminds us that every business starts with a founder taking that first step.  In this episode, you’ll learn How to: -Identify your personal why and use it as your anchor -Move forward even when self-doubt shows up -Understand what entrepreneurship can truly offer to your life -Start small and build momentum one step at a time -How to create a support system that allows you to stay focused If you’ve been thinking about starting something of your own, Shopify can help you take that first step. It’s built to make turning an idea into a business simple—from setting up your store to handling payments, inventory, and shipping. That way, you can stay focused on what really matters: bringing your vision to life. Explore what’s possible at shopify.com/aspire To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you’ve ever felt like where you come from holds you back — or that success only happens for people with access — this conversation will change how you see yourself. Music mogul, entrepreneur and branding genius Steve Stoute joins Emma to reveal how he turned being underestimated into his advantage, using his roots, instincts, and connection to culture to build an empire that reshaped music, marketing, and business. You’ll learn how to: -Turn rejection into momentum -Use your background as your competitive edge -Build ideas that move culture — not just chase it Watch this if you’re ready to stop waiting for permission and start turning your story into your strategy. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Thinking about starting a business but don’t know where to begin? In this solo episode, Emma breaks down the 10-step blueprint every first-time founder needs to turn an idea into a real company. From testing your idea to understanding the completion and market landscape to building a brand, pricing for profit, and leading a team — Emma shares the lessons she’s learned building multiple brands into a global powerhouses.  This is the real, unfiltered roadmap to launching your business — no investors, no fluff, just the mindset, structure, and execution you actually need to succeed.   In this episode, you’ll learn:     •    How to start before you feel ready     •    Why execution matters more than ideas     •    How to research your market and find your customer     •    The smartest way to manage money and risk     •    Why brand and product have to deliver — every time     •    How to lead, hire, and grow sustainably To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tracee Ellis Ross has built an extraordinary life as an award-winning actor, producer, entrepreneur, and visionary founder of Pattern Beauty. But behind all of that success is a woman who believes deeply in the power of words. In this episode of Aspire, Emma Grede sits down with one of her favorite women — and businesswomen — on the planet to talk about how Tracee’s intentional approach to language, therapy, and clarity has shaped everything from her relationships to her leadership. Tracee opens up about how she manifests with purpose, the patience it takes for ideas to bake, and why redefining success starts with what you say to yourself. This is an inspiring, grounded conversation about becoming who you are and using your words to build the life and business you want. Listen if you’re ready to: -Speak more intentionally -Redefine what success means for you -Build confidence from the inside out -Learn how your language can shape your success To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you’ve ever felt stuck, like no matter how hard you work, something’s holding you back, it’s probably not your talent or your hustle. It’s your mindset. In this solo episode, Emma Grede reveals how mastering your mind is the ultimate unlock for success, confidence, and peace of mind. She shares the exact mindset tools she’s used to build businesses, overcome fear, and turn self-doubt into fuel for growth. Plus, Emma announces her brand-new book, Start with Yourself, coming in 2026—a guide to building the mindset that changes everything. In this episode, you’ll learn how to: -Reprogram negative self-talk and handle haters with strength -Turn failure into feedback and fear into action -Build daily habits that wire your brain for success -Use visualization, gratitude, and self-compassion to level up -Celebrate your wins and protect your energy If you’re ready to stop holding yourself back and start building a mindset that works for you—not against you—this episode is where it all begins. Preorder Start with Yourself wherever books are sold, and share this episode with someone who’s ready to transform their life from the inside out. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you’ve ever wondered how to turn your personal brand into a thriving business, Paris Hilton has the answers. In this episode of Aspire with Emma Grede, Paris reveals the strategies that helped her turn her image into an empire — long before “influencer” was even a word. You’ll hear how she: -Built one of the most recognizable personal brands in the world -Turned consistency and authenticity into her biggest business assets -Evolved from celebrity to CEO of 11:11 Media -Used her platform for purpose — and built a legacy beyond fame This conversation is a masterclass in brand-building from the woman who started it all. Whether you’re launching a business, growing your influence, or reinventing yourself, Paris’s blueprint will show you how to do it — and make it last. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aspire with Emma Grede is a finalist for Best New Podcast with Signal’s Listener Choice Awards!  Vote here. In this episode of Aspire, Emma Grede sits down with her husband, Jens Grede— media and retail investor, CEO of Skims, Chairman of Frame and founder of the Saturday Group.  Jens’ business acumen has been instrumental to Skims’ exponential growth, which has a current valuation of $4 billion.  They sit down for a candid conversation about what it takes to be both life partners and business partners. Emma and Jens open up about the lessons they’ve learned building brands like Skims and Good American, the rule that anchors their marriage, and why embracing risk and reinvention has shaped both their careers and their family life. They share honest reflections on balancing ambition with love, parenting with partnership, and excellence with vulnerability. Tune in for a real, behind-the-scenes look at how Emma and Jens make marriage and business thrive — together. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aspire with Emma Grede is a finalist for Best New Podcast with Signal’s Listener Choice Awards!  Vote here. What if your brain holds the key to unlocking success, resilience, and joy? In this episode, Emma sits down with neuroscientist, executive coach, and MIT lecturer Dr. Tara Swart to explore how to harness the full power of your brain. Dr. Swart shares practical tools and cutting-edge science on stress, intuition, and neuroplasticity—proving that you can rewire your mind at any stage of life. Together, they dive into: Daily habits that build mental resilience and lower stress Why multitasking drains productivity—and what to do instead The science of intuition and how to trust it How creativity, nature, and beauty fuel brain health Why purpose and community drive long-term success This is a masterclass in making your brain work for you, not against you. If you’re looking for science-backed strategies to thrive at work, at home, and in life, this conversation is for you. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On her birthday, Emma Grede reveals the simple system she uses to turn goals into reality. She shares the five questions that shape her yearly plan, the science behind habits that stick, and why tiny, consistent actions create massive change. Whether you want to grow your career, improve your health, or live with more intention, this is your blueprint for making it happen. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

From a video rental store to a corner office at Netflix. Emma sits down with Netflix Co-CEO Ted Sarandos as he reveals how he built one of the most influential companies in the world — and the leadership lessons he’s learned along the way.   You’ll hear Ted’s insights on:   Taking bold risks and trusting your gut Making the toughest decisions as a leader Why values and vision matter more than algorithms How to keep innovating even when you’re on top   Ted’s story is a masterclass in leadership, resilience, and ambition for anyone looking to grow in their career or business. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What does it really take to build a brand from scratch — and what happens when you have to close the doors? In this candid conversation, Emma sits down with Diarrha N’Diaye, founder of the beloved beauty brand Ami Colé, to talk about the highs of launching a cult-favorite company and the heartbreak of shutting it down. Diarrha shares the behind-the-scenes realities of raising capital, entering major retailers, and navigating the pressure that comes with being one of the few Black women to raise over a million dollars in venture funding. She also opens up about resilience, community, motherhood, and why failure can be the most powerful teacher of all. If you’re an entrepreneur, a dreamer, or simply someone figuring out how to redefine success, this episode will leave you inspired — and a little braver. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What’s really holding you back from the life you want? In this powerful conversation, Emma Grede sits down with Dr. Thema Bryant — psychologist, author, and pastor — to unpack the hidden stories, unresolved trauma, and self-sabotaging patterns that keep us from thriving. Together, they dive into: Why so many of us are standing on our own wings — and how to stop. The surprising ways fear of failure (and even fear of success) shapes our choices. Why women are conditioned to shrink their power — and how to reclaim it. The lingering scars of the pandemic we still haven’t healed. Practical tools for setting boundaries, rewriting old narratives, and living whole. Dr. Thema doesn’t just explain the psychology — she offers real steps for anyone ready to stop running, face the pain, and move from surviving to thriving.  If you’ve ever felt exhausted, unworthy, or stuck, this episode will give you the clarity and courage to finally break free. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you’ve ever walked into a room and felt the weight of being the only one like you, questioned whether you could take bold risks without losing yourself, or wondered how to build a career on your own terms, this is your episode. We dive into the mindset shifts that helped Donna Langley rise from a small town childhood on the isolated Isle of Wight in England with no Hollywood connections to becoming one of the most powerful women in Hollywood. She opens up about the moments of doubt, the gut instincts that overrode the data, and the unpopular decisions that ultimately paid off. She worked on billion-dollar blockbusters like Oppenheimer, Fast & Furious, and Mamma Mia and built her career on resilience, decency as a superpower, and finding your voice in rooms where you’re outnumbered. In her first-ever podcast interview, Donna shares the leadership lessons that helped her champion underdog stories, turn unlikely ideas into global hits, and lead with integrity in an industry famous for chaos. Donna Langley is proof that you can start from anywhere, trust your instincts, and build the career—and the life—you want. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you’ve ever felt the sting of being underestimated, been told your best ideas were too big, or wondered how to turn the next chapter of your life into a big win, this is your episode. We dive into the emotional highs and lows of being someone who refused to stay behind the scenes, the balance of motherhood and ambition and the gamble of betting on yourself when the stakes feel impossibly high. You'll hear how Kandi navigated the heartbreak of deals that fell through, leaned into vulnerability to write songs that became cultural anthems, and faced the drama of 'Real Housewives' cameras while protecting her sense of self.  Kandi gets real about being a Grammy winning hit maker crafting culture-defining hits like “No Scrubs,” launching businesses out of tough seasons, and the humility hack that keeps her grounded no matter how high she climbs. In this conversation, she shares the blueprint she’s built for making bold moves, trusting your gut, and using every platform—housewives drama, hit records, even home kitchens—to power a life that truly aspires. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

If you've ever felt underestimated, struggled with mom-guilt, or wondered if it's possible to truly balance ambition and personal peace, this is your episode. We dive into the emotional costs of overachievement, building a business as a mother of three, the moments of doubt when everyone underestimated her, and the heartbreaks that shaped her perspective on success and leadership. This isn't just a story of entrepreneurship and resilience; it's also about vulnerability, intuition, and learning to let go of perfection. Jessica Alba gets real about the success, the global fame, and her journey building the mega-successful brand, The Honest Company. In this deeply personal and honest conversation, Jessica opens up about her transition away from the company she poured her heart into, revealing what it felt like to hand over her "baby" to others. Jessica shares the inside story of what really drove her to start The Honest Company—her health struggles as a child, an allergic reaction that terrified her as a new mom, and her fierce determination to protect families everywhere from hidden toxins. Jessica Alba is proof that the strength to evolve comes from being true to who you really are, even in the toughest moments. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Emma sits down with Lucy Guo to uncover the incredible journey of how the daughter of immigrants from Fremont, California, became the world's youngest self-made female billionaire. Unapologetic and refreshingly candid, Lucy offers practical insights into monetizing your passions, securing the equity you deserve, and maintaining authenticity while chasing your dreams. From being a 14-year-old computer hacker to co-founding Scale AI, a multi-billion-dollar tech powerhouse, Lucy shares how she navigated setbacks—including being sidelined from her own company—and reinvented herself to revolutionize social media. Tune in for an inspiring and empowering playbook from Silicon Valley’s boldest rebel entrepreneur. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this electrifying sit-down, marketing powerhouse Bozoma Saint John tells Emma Grede how trusting her gut—and refusing to shrink—propelled her from a junior assistant’s cubicle to the C-suite, and now to founding the hair-care disruptor, Eve by Boz. She unpacks why “excellence is a baseline” was the mantra drilled into her by her Ghanaian parents, shares the exact language she used to claim credit without apology, and explains why ditching a rigid five-year plan unlocked once-in-a-lifetime opportunities. Boz dives deep on separating ego from intuition, funding a factory in Ghana to center Black women in a $7-billion industry, and spotting the storytelling through-line that ties every bold career move together. If you’re ready to amplify your voice, own your wins, and make audacious moves, this conversation is your playbook—hit subscribe, and share it with someone who needs a confidence boost today. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ever wondered what it really takes to turn your small idea into a billion-dollar success? Today, Emma sits down with Allison Ellsworth, the founder behind Poppi, the revolutionary beverage brand that became the second fastest-growing drink company in history. Allison shares the real, raw journey—from brewing her first drink in her kitchen, to putting her life savings on the line, and ultimately landing a $2 billion deal with PepsiCo. This episode is your masterclass in courage, branding, and innovation. Allison reveals her exact playbook for knowing when to go all in, how to avoid costly mistakes, why being social-first changed everything for her company, and the unexpected reason she chose to step away from the business she built from scratch. If you're holding onto an idea, waiting for the right moment, or navigating the complexities of growing your brand, you can't afford to miss this conversation. Hit play for the ultimate inspiration to just get started and build the business of your dreams. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Why do most startups fail, and how can you avoid it? In this episode of the Aspire podcast, Mark Cuban breaks down exactly what new founders get wrong, how to take an idea from nothing to something, and the critical Day 1 steps every entrepreneur must get right. He also explains why mastering AI isn’t optional anymore and how it’s completely changing how businesses are built. Whether you’re just starting out or scaling up, Mark offers raw, tactical advice on sales, mindset, money, and how to build a business that works. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this raw and deeply honest conversation, Charlamagne tha God joins Emma Grede to reflect on his remarkable journey—from a troubled youth in South Carolina to becoming one of the most influential voices in media. Charlamagne opens up about his early run-ins with the law, the wake-up calls that changed his path, and the mindset that helped him build an empire across radio, books, podcasts, and TV.   He shares hard-earned lessons on purpose, peace, and perseverance, discusses the role of therapy and plant-based medicine in his healing, and speaks candidly about masculinity, marriage, and fatherhood. With signature wit and wisdom, Charlamagne reveals how his greatest success lies not in controversy, but in clarity—and why doing right by his family is the most powerful move he’s ever made. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Emma Grede sits down with trial-lawyer-turned–viral communication coach Jefferson Fisher—author of the New York Times bestseller The Next Conversation—to unpack the single skill that drives every success: how you speak. Together they explore why social-media overload is eroding real dialogue, then trade real-world fixes that work from the boardroom to the dinner table. Jefferson explains how a smile and an open question transform first impressions, why cutting “sorry,” “just,” and other verbal fluff instantly boosts authority, and how flipping your “no” (lead with it, end with gratitude) sets healthy boundaries without guilt. Emma probes the toughest moments—family conflicts, workplace clashes, digital misreads—and Jefferson delivers tools such as framing conversations around a shared goal, letting your breath be the first “word,” and wielding strategic silence so people hear their own tone. Brimming with memorable metaphors (be a “well,” not a waterfall, in email) and Emma’s candid reflections on her own communication wins and misses, this episode hands you the script—and the mindset—to make your very next conversation resonate. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Emma sits down for an intimate, inspiring conversation with former First Lady Michelle Obama and her big brother, Craig Robinson. In this special episode, Michelle and Craig open up about family, leadership, and the values that shaped them, from their early years sharing on Chicago’s South Side to the White House. Michelle reflects candidly on balancing motherhood, public life, and personal ambition, while Craig shares heartfelt stories that highlight the emotional intelligence and unwavering support they learned from their parents. Together, they discuss how everyone can create meaningful change—starting exactly where they are. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, isn’t just launching a brand—she’s rewriting what it means to build one under relentless public scrutiny. In her first wide-ranging interview about her new company As Ever, Meghan joins Emma for a candid conversation about the pressure, the pivots, and the power of betting on yourself when the world is watching.They get into it all: why a humble jar of jam became her first product, how a Netflix partnership changed the scale overnight, and what it’s like to run a startup when your name is the headline. Meghan opens up about the lessons she learned selling scrunchies as a kid, what she would change about her public narrative, and the real cost of ambition in plain sight. This is a masterclass in building boldly—when you can’t move quietly. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of Aspire, Emma dives deep into one of her favorite topics: money! She sits down with bestselling author and financial expert Nicole Lapin to break down why we so often avoid money talk—and how that silence holds us back. Nicole reveals how she conquered her own debt using the “avalanche” method (tackling high-interest balances first) and how to master simple money lingo—ROI, APY, EBITDA—so you never feel lost in a finance convo again. We also cover how just $200 a month in an S&P 500 index fund at age 35 can balloon into roughly $500K by retirement, and why the “age in bonds” rule—your age in bonds, the rest in stocks—is a solid starting point. Plus: automating “set and forget” investments, keeping crypto under 1% of your net worth, and calculating the real “opportunity cost” of a home down payment (hint: sometimes renting wins). This isn’t just about numbers—it’s about mindset. Nicole shares her story of losing her home in the Los Angeles wildfires and turning scarcity into abundance, proving that talking openly about money is the first step to freedom. Whether you’re drowning in debt or ready to make your first investment, this episode is packed with practical tips to help you take control of your finances—and finally feel good about your money. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this deeply personal solo episode of Aspire, Emma Grede gets real and shares the ten foundational principles that have shaped her journey as an entrepreneur, leader, and mother. Drawing from over two decades of experience, Emma opens up about the power of embracing vulnerability, leveraging your unique strengths, and facing your past head-on. She discusses the critical importance of authenticity, personal responsibility, and the transformative role risk plays in achieving success. Emma’s practical insights will help you clearly identify what truly matters, focus your energy on what you can control, and develop a learning mindset that bridges the gap between good and great. Tune in to discover the powerful guiding principles Emma relies on that can help you forge your own path to fulfillment and success. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Emma sits down with Jay Shetty—a global media force, a spiritual leader, bestselling author, entrepreneur, and someone who's building a career with no blueprint — all while staying rooted in purpose and inner peace.   In this episode, Jay opens up about what it really takes to create a life no one else has modeled — and how he's maintained his well-being in the face of massive ambition. Emma and Jay go deep on everything from meditation and mindfulness to business and betrayal, asking questions we rarely hear answered honestly:   How do you protect your peace when the world keeps pulling at you?Can you chase success without burning out?Can you be ruthless in business without losing your center?   This isn’t just a conversation — it’s a masterclass in building a purpose-driven personal and professional life. Whether you’re launching a new venture, redefining success, or simply trying to keep it together while aiming higher, this episode will leave you ready to tackle your goals, all while staying grounded. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Model, entrepreneur and media mogul Karlie Kloss sits down with Emma for a rare, wide-ranging conversation about the bold pivots, personal principles, and hard-won lessons that have shaped her journey from the runway to the boardroom. With baby number three on the way, Karlie opens up about the balancing act of motherhood and mogulhood, the trade-offs she makes, and the guilt she’s learned to manage. Emma and Karlie dive deep into her transition from fashion icon to tech and media entrepreneur, her mission to empower women in STEM through Kode with Klossy, and her bold foray into publishing with the relaunch of i-D. Karlie also shares what drives her as an investor, her evolving relationship with money, and how she navigates being underestimated in male-dominated rooms. Whether you’re multi-passionate, mid-pivot, or just need the push to take a leap, Karlie’s story is proof that reinvention is always within reach. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Emma is joined by the relentless entrepreneur Michael Rubin, founder and CEO of Fanatics for a deep dive into his extraordinary journey from a self-described "god-awful athlete" to one of the most successful business minds in the sports industry. Michael pulls back the curtain on the mindset and drive that fuels his success, revealing how outworking the competition has been a cornerstone of his career.   From launching his first business at age 8 to building Fanatics into a global powerhouse, Michael shares how his obsession with business—and his ability to thrive during the toughest times—has shaped his rise. Whether it's pushing through failures or seizing opportunities in the face of adversity, Michael’s relentless work ethic and ability to pivot when needed have been crucial to his journey. He talks about the sacrifices he's made, the lessons he's learned about leadership, and how his obsession with staying ahead of the competition fuels both his personal and professional life. Emma and Michael also explore the importance of being in tune with your audience, identifying untapped markets, and building a team of game-changers who share your vision. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Emma sits down with the number one person she looks up to in business: to Mellody Hobson. As Co-CEO of Ariel Investments—a firm managing over $14 billion in assets—Mellody is a powerhouse whose influence stretches far beyond Wall Street.   She opens up about her early life growing up on the South Side of Chicago, the youngest of six kids raised by a single mother, and how those beginnings shaped her views on money, ambition, and success. Mellody shares her rare career journey—starting as an intern and rising to president in under ten years, all while staying at the same company for over three decades.   Emma and Mellody go deep on what it takes to thrive in male-dominated spaces, why subject matter expertise is the foundation of real leadership, and how negotiating for yourself is non-negotiable. They also talk openly about money trauma, self-worth, and rewriting the financial narratives many of us carry.   Mellody’s story proves you can build a legendary career without chasing every trend—by staying focused, staying prepared, and staying true to yourself. This conversation is full of hard-won wisdom on how to stand out, stay sharp, and lead with purpose. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Emma sits down with Gwyneth Paltrow for an unfiltered conversation about ambition, evolution, and the emotional toll of leadership. Gwyneth opens up about her radical pivot from Academy Award-winning actress to founder and CEO of Goop, the challenges of scaling a brand born from personal passion, and the intense public scrutiny that’s followed her journey. They dive into the emotional complexity behind ambition, navigating layoffs as a woman leader, and how Gwyneth balances personal growth with her brand’s identity.  If you've ever wondered what it really takes to reinvent yourself—and stay true to your vision even when the world has strong opinions—this conversation is for you. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Emma Grede has spent her career building culture-defining brands and breaking barriers in business. Now, she’s bringing that same passion to Aspire with Emma Grede—a new podcast designed to inspire, empower, and fuel your ambition. Every week, Emma shares honest conversations with trailblazing entrepreneurs, leaders, and visionaries, diving into the real stories behind their success. Get ready for practical insights, powerful motivation, and the push you need to keep going. Tune in every Tuesday for your weekly dose of motivation with Aspire with Emma Grede. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices