Are you feeling the tension between wanting to speak up… and wondering if it’s “too much”? Or maybe you’ve noticed your confidence shifting in midlife—at work, at home, or even in your own body?

In this powerful and deeply honest episode, Sara is joined by two incredible leaders—Gloria Feldt and Heather Florio—for a conversation that goes far beyond menopause. Together, they explore what it truly means to own your power as a woman today—especially in a world that still challenges, questions, and often undervalues it. From workplace dynamics to menopause advocacy, this episode will leave you thinking differently about your voice, your value, and your next bold move.

This conversation is also a behind-the-scenes look at the Take The Lead “Power Up” Conference—where the theme of audacity takes center stage. And trust me… you’ll walk away inspired to take action in your own life.

In this episode:

[03:04] – What “audacity” really means in leadership—and why speaking up matters more than ever 

[04:22] – Why progress for women isn’t linear (and how pushback can actually signal growth)

[08:35] – What real workplace support for women looks like (beyond performative DEI policies)

[13:49] – Redefining power—and why many women unknowingly give theirs away 

[16:10] – The subtle ways women communicate at work (and how language can undermine confidence)

[17:52] – Menopause in the workplace: why this conversation is finally gaining momentum

[21:02] – How gaps in women’s healthcare directly impact leadership and career longevity

[23:34] – The challenge to take one audacious action—and why it matters

[25:10] – The most underrated obstacle women face: expectations (and how they hold us back)

[26:48] – Why the traditional “ladder” model of success may be the real problem

Links and Resources:

• Power Up Conference: https://www.thepowerupconference.com
• Take The Lead: https://www.taketheleadwomen.com

Connect with Gloria Feldt:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gloriafeldt/

Connect with Heather Florio:

• Website: https://www.desertharvest.com

The Power Up Conference takes place in Washington, DC on August 25–26, centered around the theme of Audacity: Leadership in Action.

Expect a full day of inspiring speakers, including Margaret Atwood, powerful panels on women’s health and wealth, and meaningful conversations that go beyond inspiration—into real action. ✨ Plus… it ends with a dance party (because joy is part of the revolution too).

🎟️ Early bird pricing is available through April 30—so if this episode finds you before then, now is the time to grab your ticket. https://lead.taketheleadwomen.com/event/power-up-conference-and-concert-2026/e774818/register/new/select-tickets

Connect with me, Dr. Sara Poldmae:

Website: https://risingwomanproject.com

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/drsarapoldmae

If this episode resonated with you, I’d love for you to share it with someone who needs to hear it. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and leave a review—it helps more women find this space so we can all rise and thrive together

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!