From Accidental Entrepreneur to Empowered Leader with Sonya Hopson Artwork

MONEY WITHOUT MATH

We're exploring how money exists in our real, daily lives, not just as numbers on a chart. From managing our emotions to caring for an aging parent, join us for conversations that are practical, sometimes philosophical, and always fresh. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Clarity Planning is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services. Content represents the opinions of the speaker and not necessarily those of Raymond James. The rating is not intended to be an endorsement, or any way indicative of the advisors abilities to provide investment advice or management. This podcast is intended for informational purposes only. Important Disclosure Information: http://raymondjames.com/smicd.htm

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MONEY WITHOUT MATH

From Accidental Entrepreneur to Empowered Leader with Sonya Hopson

March 31, 2025 • Karen Coyne, CFP®

Karen Coyne is joined by Sonya Hopson, the dynamic CEO and founder of HIRE Strategies, a talent placement agency with a focus on commercial construction. Sonya shares her personal journey from "accidental entrepreneur" to making her mark in commercial construction as a single mom and a woman of color.

She also opens up about embracing imperfections and becoming the woman known for her pink hard hat. Join us for a conversation that's as inspiring as it is practical.

Key episode discussions include:

Her unexpected entry into the construction industry with a unique personal brand (00:04:36)
The value of skilled trades and why they're a perfect career option for women (00:08:19)
Tackling challenges in a male-dominated field and the power of authenticity (00:16:50)
Her 'Chasing Peace' journey, redefining success, and prioritizing personal fulfillment over societal metrics (00:27:37)
And so much more!

Resources:

“Chasing Peace” by Sonya Hopson

Connect with Karen Coyne:

Connect with Sonya Hopson:

About Our Guest:

Sonya Hopson is The Lady with the Pink Hard Hat.

From an accidental entrepreneur to an award-winning CEO, Sonya has built a career defined by resilience, purpose, and transformation. As the Founder & CEO of HIRE Strategies, she has cultivated a business focused on people-first leadership—empowering professionals and breaking down barriers in male-dominated industries. Recognized by Forbes and the Triangle Business Journal, Sonya is dedicated to disrupting the status quo and creating fair and equitable opportunities for all candidates.

At HIRE Strategies, the organization’s mission is to empower both companies and individuals by advocating for diverse perspectives—helping businesses HIRE and RETAIN top talent while fostering inclusive workplaces where everyone has a seat at the table.

But her story reaches beyond business.

As a motivational speaker, ballroom dancer, mental health advocate, and author, Sonya shares her personal experiences to inspire others to heal from unhealed childhood wounds, embrace imperfection, and seek their own peace. Her upcoming book, Chasing Peace: Tales of a Recovering Perfectionist, offers a deeply personal journey of overcoming trauma, perfectionism, and redefining success on one’s own terms.

Whether mentoring women in business, advocating for mental health awareness, or helping organizations build inclusive teams, Sonya's mission remains constant: to be a light in someone else’s darkness.