Ever heard that going into business with family is a recipe for disaster? Well, get ready to throw that stereotype out the window! Today, we’re diving into the story of a powerhouse, female-founded digital media and advertising company that’s smashing the mold. Two unstoppable sisters, Kristin and Devon McCrossin, took the leap, purchased their family business, and in just four years, they didn’t just double its size—they grew closer than ever! You won’t want to miss this inspiring journey of family, resilience, and success right here on The Career Woman's Secret Playbook Podcast! For more information about the Boomtown Internet Group (BIG) and/or to reach Kristin or Devon McCrossin, click on the links below: • https://www.boomtownig.com/ • https://www.linkedin.com/company/boomtown-internet-group/posts/?feedView=all • https://www.facebook.com/boomtownig/ And don’t forget, I share even more weekly tips on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn so be sure to follow us on our socials @drdawnshoptalk. Have a terrific week everyone and don’t forget our motto here at Dr. Dawn ShopTalk… “If you’re not having a fantastic day, you have the power to make it one!” Thanks for listening and we’ll see you next week! NEW HERE? DO THESE 2 THINGS FIRST! 1. Watch Our Other Videos from our Monthly Motivation Series: • Opening a Franchise vs. Starting your Own Business: Franchise Owner Emily Gray Spills the Tea: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fOlEmZlyDZo&t=338s • Learn How to Start Your Own Business from Entrepreneur & Podcast Host Kimberly Brock: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BXnOWe4NtT4&t=3s 2. Get your copy of The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook! • Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Career-Womans-Secret-Playbook GRAB YOUR FREEBIES! • Visit drdawnshoptalk.com CONTACT ME: • drdawn@drdawnshoptalk.comTop https://www.youtube.com/@drdawnshoptalk/podcasts

I’m here to tell you something that may surprise you: You don’t have to work for a difficult boss. Yes, you heard that right! If you’re feeling trapped with a boss who’s critical, and unapproachable you DON’T have to settle. And HERE’S why it matters: continuing to work in such an environment COULD HAVE serious consequences to your health. So come back and join me for Episode 62 where we’ll get into it ALL, right here, on The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook Podcast! I am so glad that you found our podcast. And IF you’re new to our audience, I want to thank you for joining us and AS a special thank you for listening, I’ve got some freebies JUST FOR YOU. You can find them on our website at drdawnshoptalk.com and if you enjoy our episode, please consider clicking on those 5 stars, or writing us a review. And OF COURSE we would love for you to join our community of amazing career women so consider hitting that plus sign and subscribing. Let’s start with the research. As I mentioned in the intro, working for a difficult boss can ACTUALLY be dangerous for your health. Studies show that employees with bosses who show little empathy—and with whom they lack a real connection—are 2.4 times more likely to experience an illness. This is your sign that the days of just “sucking it up” are over. Your mental and physical well-being are far too important - today, I'm going to give you the same advice I would give one of my clients – with these strategies, you can start taking charge of the situation right away! Now for ALL the specifics, be sure to watch the video but in a nutshell, here's what you do: 1. Set Clear Boundaries - Setting limits—whether around work hours, communication, or tasks—doesn’t have to be confrontational. 2. Find Allies and Build Support Chances are, you’re not alone. Seek support from trusted colleagues or mentors who understand what you’re going through. 3. Invest in Yourself Instead of focusing on what your boss is doing wrong, channel that energy into your own professional growth. 4. Consider Your Options Lastly, know when it’s time to move on. If you’ve tried all the strategies and nothing improves, start exploring other roles or opportunities that align with your values. Don’t forget, I share even more weekly tips on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn so be sure to follow us on our socials @drdawnshoptalk. Have a terrific week everyone and don’t forget… “If you’re not having a fantastic day, you have the power to make it one!” Thanks for listening and we’ll see you next week right here on The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook Podcast! NEW HERE? DO THESE 2 THINGS FIRST! 1. Check out the Videos: o Health & Wellness Secrets: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TGd2qJ7vc0w&list=PLdguFjdYMwqWGgapGw6NyDDITEWav72Xa o Healthy Boundaries Secrets: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CsYcFaWvEcI&list=PLdguFjdYMwqXaDt_bakaS7NYZylcTTL5Z o Building your Brand Secrets: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PRK7Ep29SkQ&list=PLdguFjdYMwqVLPsFZjl-Do8eH7leltW8O o When it’s Time to Pivot: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1-kI_pKdMp4&t=1s o When your Boss is the Perfectionist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m69tnI8PoCs&t=747s 2. Get your copy of The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook! o Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Career-Womans-Secret-Playbook GRAB YOUR FREEBIES! Visit drdawnshoptalk.com CONTACT ME: drdawn@drdawnshoptalk.com

Everyone has 10 minutes - use this one rule to get rid of clutter once and for all!

Are you feeling undermined at work? You can’t really put your finger on it BUT your gut is telling you something, and it ain’t good. Well, you are not alone – this can happen to us all and in today’s episode, I’m going to give you 4 powerful strategies to take back the reins RIGHT HERE on The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook Podcast! I’m your host Dr. Dawn and TODAY we’re tackling a tough but common problem: WHAT TO DO when staff or coworkers undermine you. Whether it’s subtle passive-aggressive behavior or outright sabotage, feeling undermined can make you feel undervalued, which can then erode your confidence and disrupt your team’s dynamics. We have to start by identifying whether you are TRULY being undermined. This could show up as coworkers not following through on tasks, talking negatively behind your back, or undercutting your authority in front of others. Once you recognize it, you can begin addressing it directly. Tune in to today's episode to get all the details on each strategy, but in a nutshell, here's what you do: 1. Strategy #1: Stay Calm and Objective 2. Strategy #2: Have a Direct Conversation 3. Strategy #3: Strengthen Your Network of Support 4. Strategy #4: Focus on Results, Not Drama Remember, you have the power to control how you respond to these challenges – that’s why you always hear me wrap up our episodes with our motto which is "If you're not having a fantastic day, you have the power to make it one,” because it reminds us all of how much power we really have to make the choices that determine if we’re going to have a good day or not. Now for MORE tips on how to navigate this all, be sure to follow us on social media @drdawnshoptalk! We post weekly tips on Monday to help you have a better workweek on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Thank you for joining me today! Don’t forget to subscribe and share this episode with someone who might need it. Until next time, stay strong, stay focused, and keep showing up for yourself, because YOU deserve it! NEW HERE? DO THESE 2 THINGS FIRST! 1. Check out the Videos: o Previous Podcast Episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fOlEmZlyDZo&list=PLdguFjdYMwqWXnvIeSAIhDrtPdHdsLGde o Mindset & Confidence Secrets: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=klxaMDeQCXU&list=PLdguFjdYMwqXrgiI1YaB87uHu1gm_mczc o Upskilling Secrets: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bm6ro9LlUMA&list=PLdguFjdYMwqX3gnuMSrLgaN7hXBSWhqmO o Healthy Boundaries Secrets: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CsYcFaWvEcI&list=PLdguFjdYMwqXaDt_bakaS7NYZylcTTL5Z o What’s Holding You Back Secrets: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dg5oof2vv7Q&list=PLdguFjdYMwqUaLR6jMeDUgP0cntaIJJ-Y 2. Get your copy of The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook! o Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Career-Womans-Secret-Playbook GRAB YOUR FREEBIES! Visit drdawnshoptalk.com CONTACT ME: drdawn@drdawnshoptalk.com

Have you HAD it when it comes to goal setting? You get all motivated, set a goal, but then achieving that goal starts to feel like that light at the end of a Never-ending tunnel. And THEN, even when you can muster enough will power to actually work on that goal, you’re JUST not getting the outcome you were looking for. Well, this never-ending cycle stops today by making ONE simple change – what you’re focusing on. THAT, my friends, is what we’re uncovering today in Episode 60 of The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook Podcast. I’m your host Dr. Dawn and as I mentioned in the intro, this ONE strategy can become a real game-changer when it comes to achieving your goals. I’m not only going to give you all the details on what that is but I’ll ALSO share some specific strategies and action steps so that you can put this ALL in place right away. And today I have a special call to action for you at then END of the episode so if you stay with us to the end and listen to our instruction, you will be entered into our giveaway, and I’ll give you more details about all that at the end. Ok listeners, let’s get to it. The ONE thing I want you to focus on to help you achieve everything we’re talking about today is this: SHIFT your focus from the goals themselves. Why Do Systems Matter More Than Goals? Because goals give you direction, but systems keep you moving forward. Think of a goal as your destination and a system as your roadmap. We’ll break down how focusing on daily habits and routines, rather than just the end result, can lead to greater success. Here are my 5 favorite strategies to help you do just that: 1. Build Consistent Habits: Start by identifying one small habit that directly aligns with your goal. For example, if you want to get healthier, begin by drinking more water every day. 2. Systems Over Outcomes: Instead of focusing on losing 10 pounds or landing a promotion, focus on the actions that will get you there. 3. Track and Reflect Regularly: Tracking your progress helps you stay accountable and motivated. Set aside time weekly to review how your system is working. If it’s not, don’t be afraid to adjust it! 4. Yourself with Accountability: Whether it’s a mentor, a friend, or a colleague, find someone who can help keep you on track. They can offer support, feedback, and motivation when you need it most. 5. the Process, Not Just the Outcome: Learn to appreciate the journey! By celebrating each step forward, you’ll stay motivated and remind yourself that success is a result of consistent effort. Ok you guys are you ready for that Call to Action to action that I mentioned at the beginning our Episode???: Well, NOW that you know how to achieve your goals by focusing on your systems, it’s time to take action! Start by choosing ONE STRATEGY to implement today, whether it’s a habit you’ll build OR a routine you’ll refine. THEN, to get a chance to win our door prize, you need to do just 2 simple things: 1) Give this video a thumbs up 2) Tell us in the comments below WHICH of the 5 strategies we talked about today YOU are planning on putting in place. If you do THOSE 2 things, you will get a chance to win a private mini coaching session with yours truly! I’ll send you a Zoom link, we’ll get a chance to actually meet, and we’ll be able to talk about what’s going on in your career. All right everyone… Thank you for tuning in! Be sure to subscribe and share this episode with a friend who’s ready to achieve their goals. AND if you need more strategies to help you stay on track, follow us @drdawnshoptalk on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. And last but not least remember: "If you're not having a fantastic day, you have the power to make it one." Until I see you next time, BE SURE to stay focused, stay consistent, and keep showing up for yourself and your dreams. ________________________________________ NEW HERE? DO THESE 2 THINGS FIRST! 1. Check out the Videos: o Previous Podcast Episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fOlEmZlyDZo&list=PLdguFjdYMwqWXnvIeSAIhDrtPdHdsLGde o Mindset & Confidence Secrets: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=klxaMDeQCXU&list=PLdguFjdYMwqXrgiI1YaB87uHu1gm_mczc o What’s Holding You Back Secrets: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dg5oof2vv7Q&list=PLdguFjdYMwqUaLR6jMeDUgP0cntaIJJ-Y o Building your Brand Secrets: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PRK7Ep29SkQ&list=PLdguFjdYMwqVLPsFZjl-Do8eH7leltW8O o Upskilling Secrets: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bm6ro9LlUMA&list=PLdguFjdYMwqX3gnuMSrLgaN7hXBSWhqmO 2. Get your copy of The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook! o Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Career-Womans-Secret-Playbook GRAB YOUR FREEBIES! Visit drdawnshoptalk.com CONTACT ME: drdawn@drdawnshoptalk.com

I'm pulling back the curtain on one of my favorite pro tips when it comes to public speaking - these are the kind of secrets that professional speakers like me really don't want you to know, and if you want more even MORE tips about professional speaking, check out my latest podcast video!

Speaking in front of an audience can be intimidating. But if you know the right tricks, you’ll be a step ahead of the game. Today, I’m pulling back the curtain on 3 specific strategies that I’ve used for YEARS that can instantly boost your speaking game. These are insider-secrets that professional speakers don't want you to know because we want to corner the market and we may not want to share the stage! Tune in to today's episode for all the details, but this will get you started: Strategy #1. The “Pause of Power” - Ever notice how the best speakers seem to effortlessly command attention without rushing through their words? Here’s their secret—they use strategic pauses. This trick makes your audience lean in, pay attention, and hang onto your every word! Strategy #2. The Invisible Connection - Another secret most professional speakers don’t talk about is the invisible connection they create with their audience. It’s NOT just about saying the right words, but about speaking to the audience as if you were having a one-on-one conversation. Strategy #3. The Power of the Unexpected - Professional speakers love to surprise their audiences—but they don’t want you to know how intentional this is! Using an unexpected fact, story, or even a joke in your speech helps to shake things up and keep the audience alert. There you have it, friends – 3 of the top-secret skills that professional speakers use to keep audiences hanging on their every word—and now, you can use them too! These strategies will not only boost your confidence but make you stand out as a speaker people want to listen to. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook! And remember, if you’re not having a fantastic day, you have the power to make it one! Catch you next time, and don’t forget to hit that subscribe button so you don’t miss any future episode AND for more tips and strategies, check out our socials @drdawnshoptalk on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. NEW HERE? DO THESE 2 THINGS FIRST! 1. Check out the Videos: o Previous Podcast Episodes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fOlEmZlyDZo&list=PLdguFjdYMwqWXnvIeSAIhDrtPdHdsLGde o Mindset & Confidence Secrets: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=klxaMDeQCXU&list=PLdguFjdYMwqXrgiI1YaB87uHu1gm_mczc o What’s Holding You Back Secrets: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dg5oof2vv7Q&list=PLdguFjdYMwqUaLR6jMeDUgP0cntaIJJ-Y o Building your Brand Secrets: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PRK7Ep29SkQ&list=PLdguFjdYMwqVLPsFZjl-Do8eH7leltW8O o Upskilling Secrets: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bm6ro9LlUMA&list=PLdguFjdYMwqX3gnuMSrLgaN7hXBSWhqmO 2. Get your copy of The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook! o Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Career-Womans-Secret-Playbook GRAB YOUR FREEBIES! Visit drdawnshoptalk.com CONTACT ME: drdawn@drdawnshoptalk.com

If you’ve ever dreamed of owning your own business but are hesitant to start from scratch, franchising MIGHT be for you. With a proven business model, built-in brand recognition, and ongoing support, owning a franchise could create a faster path to success than starting a business on your own. So come back and join me for Episode 58 as Chicken Salad Chick Franchise Owner Emily Gray spills the tea! She not only shares her story but also valuable insights on why franchising might be the PERFECT way to make your business dreams come true! Don’t Forget to: Subscribe for more tips and strategies AND follow us on our Socials @drdawnshoptalk – you can find us on Facebook, Instagram AND LinkedIn. FIND OUT MORE ABOUT EMILY & CHICKEN SALAD CHICK • Website: o www.chickensaladchick.com • Facebook Page: o https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=chicken%20salad%20chick NEW HERE? DO THESE 2 THINGS FIRST! 1. Check out these other Videos: a. The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tTUA7tDYb8w&list=PLdguFjdYMwqWXnvIeSAIhDrtPdHdsLGde b. Mindset & Confidence Secrets: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=klxaMDeQCXU&list=PLdguFjdYMwqXrgiI1YaB87uHu1gm_mczc c. What’s Holding You Back Secrets: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dg5oof2vv7Q&list=PLdguFjdYMwqUaLR6jMeDUgP0cntaIJJ-Y d. Time Management Secrets: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hThB5rseaWU&list=PLdguFjdYMwqWxPZL2zYJh-dGW6jt4GsQx e. Upskilling Secrets: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bm6ro9LlUMA&list=PLdguFjdYMwqX3gnuMSrLgaN7hXBSWhqmO 2. Get your copy of The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook! a. Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Career-Womans-Secret-Playbook b. Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-career-womans-secret-playbook-dr-dawn-hamby COME SAY HI! https://www.facebook.com/drdawnshoptalk https://www.linkedin.com/drdawnshoptalk GRAB YOUR FREEBIES! https://www.drdawnshoptalk.com CONTACT ME: drdawn@drdawnshoptalk.com BOOK YOUR FREE CONSULTATION: https://calendly.com/drdawnshoptalk/15-minute-customized-coaching-call?month=2023-09

Did you know that the words you choose and how you communicate them could be sending the wrong message? In the business world, language reflects not only our thoughts but also how others perceive us. Even in 2024, career women continue to use passive words and phrases more frequently than men, which can weaken their professional presence, and I want to make sure that your language matches the powerful career professional you are meant to be! Welcome everyone to Episode 57 of The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook! I’m your host, Dr. Dawn, CEO/Founder of Dr. Dawn ShopTalk. As a Business Consultant and Coach, I’m here to help you build your brand, upskill your career, and live with more passion and purpose. If that resonates with you, hit that subscribe button, rate, review, and share! Visit drdawnshoptalk.com for free resources designed just for you. So, let's dive in! Men and women often differ in communication styles, and research shows women tend to use passive language more frequently. Words and phrases like “I think,” “maybe,” and “just” can make you seem unsure of yourself, affecting your authority and credibility. Women also soften their tone or inflection at the end of sentences, turning statements into questions. This habit can suggest you're seeking validation rather than making a decisive point. While asking questions is important—especially to avoid burnout—the issue arises when this becomes the norm rather than the exception, especially in leadership roles. Assertive language helps project confidence, which is essential during important meetings and presentations. Meanwhile, male colleagues using more direct language may appear more authoritative, even if delivering the same message. So, how can we ensure our language reflects professional power and confidence? Here are 5 simple strategies to start making changes today: 1. Eliminate Weak Language: Words like “just,” “I think,” or “maybe” undermine your message. Instead of saying, “I just wanted to add…,” say, “I want to add…” to sound more decisive. 2. Use Action-Oriented Verbs: Replace tentative phrases like “I hope we can…” with stronger ones like “We need to…” or “Let’s move forward with…” to reinforce your authority. 3. Practice Your Inflection: Pay attention to how you end sentences. Deliver statements with a downward inflection to sound more assertive and make sure your tone reflects a declaration, not a question. 4. Be Direct and Concise: Avoid over-explaining or adding unnecessary qualifiers. Being direct strengthens your message and enhances its impact. 5. Own Your Opinions: Don’t frame your opinions as questions. Instead of saying, “Does that make sense?” at the end of your point, say, “This is the best approach because…” to show confidence in your judgment. Bonus Tip: Record yourself during meetings or presentations to assess how you come across. This helps you track progress and stay consistent with your communication goals. Wrap Up: As we wrap up, remember that how you communicate is key to being seen as the strong, capable professional you truly are. And as always, I’ll leave you with our company motto: “If you’re not having a fantastic day, YOU have the power to make it one!” Thanks for listening! Don’t forget to subscribe for more tips and strategies and follow us on our socials @drdawnshoptalk on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. NEW HERE? DO THESE 2 THINGS FIRST! 1. Check out the Videos mentioned in Today’s episode: o The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook Podcast o Mindset & Confidence Secrets o What’s Holding You Back Secrets o Time Management Secrets o Upskilling Secrets 2. Get your copy of The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook! o Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Career-Womans-Secret-Playbook GRAB YOUR FREEBIES! Visit drdawnshoptalk.com CONTACT ME: drdawn@drdawnshoptalk.com