Reward: The Podcast of The Trust®

She wanted to be a civil rights attorney. Then her perfect math scores came back, the engineers came calling, and everything changed. Michelle Jones didn’t just pivot — she built a 30-year environmental consulting firm from scratch, cold-called her way to her first client at 50 calls a day, and won contracts with some of the largest transit agencies in the country. All while everyone she walked into a room to meet expected someone else. And today she’s working on a new model to help other leaders thrive in navigating their businesses and lives as well. In this episode of REWARD: The Podcast of The Trust, Ali Brown sits down with Michelle for a rich conversation about building from conviction, leading through uncertainty, and what three decades of doing “the hard thing” actually teaches you.On this episode of the #REWARDPodcast, you’ll hear:How Michelle went from aspiring civil rights attorney to civil engineer — and why the detour turned out to be the whole pointHer 50-calls-a-day cold calling strategy that landed her first client (and what she said in that room when he questioned her age)What “the in-between” really means and why most leaders are navigating it right now without the right toolsThe new framework she developed inside one of The Trust’s masterminds, and how it’s becoming her next chapterAli’s take on why the phone call is coming back — and why human connection is still the ultimate differentiatorThis one is for the woman who has spent decades doing the work and is ready to share what she actually learned.And, learn more about The Trust and Michelle…Learn more about The Trust — our tight-knit community for 7+8-figure women entrepreneursLearn more about Michelle’s consulting firmFollow Michelle on LinkedInConnect with us on social using the hashtag #RewardPodcast and share your key takeaways from this episode!

Sitting on a boat going to the Statue of Liberty, staring at a stranger’s beautifully worn cognac leather bag, something cracked open in Susanne Mariga that she hadn’t felt since she was 20. A dream she set aside because it felt too risky, too impractical, too heartfelt back then.After an incredibly successful career building her own firm and recognition as a CPA and coauthor of the book Profit First for Minority Business Enterprises, she sold her practice in 2022. What came next? The most unexpected chapter of her career. But it was also a bit full circle. You see, way back when, Susanne chose accounting over fashion design… because it felt safer. Now at 50, she stopped wondering “what if” and answered the call. Just this past month she launched a luxury leather handbag brand called Florel. In this episode of REWARD: The Podcast of The Trust, Ali Brown sits down with Susanne for an honest conversation about identity after a big exit, starting over in a completely new industry, and why women who’ve already built something are often the best positioned to take the wildest swings.On this episode of the #REWARDPodcast, you’ll hear:What her post-exit identity crisis really felt like (and why it hits harder than you think)The Profit First philosophy that made Susanne a cash millionaire — and funded every reinvention afterHow she sourced leather artisans in China and Italy AND why she got on the planes herselfWhat four rounds of samples taught her about getting it rightWhy The Trust was exactly the room she needed for honest, high-level feedback on her first bag (of course we love this one the most ;)) This episode is for the women who are ready to find out what they’re capable of next! And, learn more about The Trust and Susanne…Learn more about The Trust — our tight-knit community for 7+8-figure women entrepreneursShop Susanne’s bags at florel.comLearn more about Susanne’s work and book at profitmap.coConnect with us using #REWARDPodcast and share your biggest takeaway!​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

We have never been more connected online. And at the same time, many of us have never felt more isolated. Surrounded by infinite amounts of information and networks of people, it somehow all feels off kilter, impersonal, and distant. We’re truly ‘learning’ less than ever before, and connecting less on a real human level. Ali Brown, founder of The Trust, has witnessed this evolution firsthand. After more than 20 years of serving women entrepreneurs — via everything from old-school teleseminars to online programs to live conferences — Ali shares her up-and-down journey, astute observations, and why curated, in-person rooms are becoming more essential than ever for women leaders.You’ll hear:• The story of the ‘gangster’ boss woman whose armor quietly fell in Ali’s room (for the better)• How social media has created insane connection… but also a deceptive illusion• Ali’s story of being the only one to ever cry in a 22-man mastermind (this one hit hard)• Data on how in-person events still outperform virtual ones for trust and decision-making• Why not all rooms are ‘safe’ for your next level of growth• What ‘Your Era of New Authority’ really means for the theme of Ali’s 2026 ICONIC conference (it’s not domination) The room you sit in shapes the leader you become.If you are stepping into a new chapter — personally or professionally — this conversation will challenge you to be far more selective about where you place your energy.Ali’s ICONIC conference is returning this November to Phoenix, Arizona.If you feel the pull, join the waitlist here for details and early registration discounts:www.alibrown.com/iconicwaitlistWe may be more connected than ever… but the right room still changes everything.And then, learn more about The Trust and Ali…Curious about The Trust — our modern, premier network for 7+8-figure women entrepreneurs? Learn more at JoinTheTrust.org. Learn more about Ali Brown and how to work with her personally. Connect with us on social using the hashtag #RewardPodcast and share your key takeaways from this episode!

Sometimes the real magic behind building a standout brand isn’t the product at all — but the women it brings together. For Charis Jones, founder + CEO of Sassy Jones, community has always been the secret ingredient. What started as a side hustle selling wholesale jewelry while working at GEICO has evolved into a bold, multi-million-dollar fashion brand — and an even bolder movement of women who gather, travel, celebrate, and grow together both online AND off.In this episode of REWARD: The Podcast of The Trust, our founder Ali Brown sits down with Charis for a vibrant, behind-the-scenes look at how Sassy Jones was built through intuition, proximity, and unapologetic connection. From driving cross-country in her minivan to meet customers face-to-face, to hosting unforgettable community experiences (including a trip to Egypt), Charis breaks down what it *really* takes to turn customers into a devoted community.This conversation is a powerful reminder that in an increasingly digital world, the brands that win are the ones brave enough to go deeper — and offline.On this episode of the #REWARDPodcast, you’ll hear:How Charis transitioned from corporate life to founding Sassy Jones — without a master plan Why personal storytelling and meaningful details are essential to building a brand that lasts The underestimated power of offline connection in creating trust and loyalty (trade shows, road trips, real conversations)How a single challenging customer moment unlocked Charis’s creative direction and design instinct (this was our favorite!)Ali’s insight on why human connection is the ultimate differentiator in today’s digital-first marketplaceIf you’re building a brand and wondering how to create deeper loyalty, richer relationships, and real resonance — this episode is your invitation to think beyond the product and back into community.And, learn more about The Trust and Charis! Learn more about The Trust – our tight-knit community for 7+8-figure women entrepreneurs Learn more about Charis’ company Sassy JonesFollow Charis on Instagram + YouTubeConnect with us on social using the hashtag #RewardPodcast and share your key takeaways from this episode!

Growing up in a conservative, fundamentalist home, music was Lyndie Walker’s only doorway to self-expression. Today, she shares how her most powerful transformation didn’t begin with a business plan… but with the moment she was ready to become the person she really was all along.Today, Lyndie is the founder of ToneWorks, a thriving music therapy practice born from sheer necessity when no traditional job existed for the work she felt called to do. What began as two young therapists carving out space in an industry that didn’t quite “get it” has grown into a powerful, purpose-driven organization redefining what connection and healing look like.In this episode of REWARD: The Podcast of The Trust, host Ali Brown sits down with Lyndie for a soul-forward conversation about reinvention, womanhood, and the sacred unraveling that happens when your personal and professional lives evolve at the same time. They dive into the realities of female entrepreneurship, navigating divorce, rebuilding identity, and the life-changing importance of surrounding yourself with a community where you don’t have to carry it all alone.This is a heartfelt, deeply personal episode about choosing truth, honoring your own becoming, and building a business – and a life – that finally feels like home.On this episode of the #REWARDPodcast, you’ll hear:• How Lyndie’s restrictive upbringing sparked her passion for connection, community, and creative expression• The origin story of ToneWorks and how she transformed a lack of industry opportunities into a thriving business for the neurodiverse community• The real challenges women face as founders — and how Lyndie rebuilt her identity through major personal transformation (we loved this part)• Why a supportive, aligned community like The Trust was pivotal for Lyndie to stop ‘shrinking her dreams just to be relatable’• AND Lyndie’s powerful realization that success isn’t external but the inner freedom to love who you’ve become.And, learn more about The Trust and Lyndie! Learn more about The Trust – our tight-knit community for 7+8-figure women entrepreneurs Learn more about Lyndie’s organization ToneWorksFollow Lyndie on Instagram + LinkedInConnect with us on social using the hashtag #RewardPodcast and share your key takeaways from this episode!

It’s here. We are no longer willing to tolerate businesses that don’t align with who we’ve become. In this kickoff episode of our new season of Reward, Ali shares what’s new this fall, including a new look and feel for the show, powerful new guests, new benefits of The Trust, and new ways to work with her. But most importantly, she dives deep into another NEW... and a powerful theme she’s seeing across her clients and community: She unpacks how many entrepreneurs are realizing that the real breakthroughs begin when we stop judging ourselves for wanting to change what we’ve successfully created.Ali reveals how purpose-driven women are redefining what ‘success’ looks like for their own models (while still making millions! $$), and how to bring your business *forward* to meet who you are today. Get ready for a conversation that’s raw, real, and filled with permission to evolve.You’ll also hear how Ali is currently guiding women through this season of reinvention and how you can work with her personally. And of course, she shares a fresh look inside The Trust, her private community for 7- and 8-figure women founders who are creating success on their own terms. There’s a lot of NEW in this episode!And, learn more about The Trust and Ali...· Learn more about The Trust – our tight-knit community for 7+8-figure women entrepreneurs· Learn more about Ali Brown here· Follow Ali on Instagram and LinkedinConnect with us on social using the hashtag #RewardPodcast and share your key takeaways from this episode!

What happens when a high-alpha CEO decides to stop pushing and start surrendering?For Kris Murray, that moment came after decades of leading one of the most successful coaching companies in early childhood education. As the founder of The Child Care Success Company, she built a powerhouse brand from the ground up—one that now runs with an employee-ownership model and continues to thrive without her daily involvement. (Yes, really.)But what came next? A chapter of reinvention. Fueled by soul work, intuition, and a whole lot of personal freedom, Kris has since stepped into her next evolution—as a mentor to women founders ready to lead with more ease, meaning, and joy.In this episode of REWARD: The Podcast of The Trust, founder Ali Brown sits down again with our member Kris to talk about the often-unspoken reality of what comes after “success”… and how to reimagine the next chapter on your own terms. This one’s full of laughter, truth bombs, and powerful lessons on legacy, reinvention, and the courage to lead differently.On this episode of the #REWARDPodcast, you’ll hear:The inspiring story of how Kris turned a burned-out consulting gig into a thriving 7+ figure company in an overlooked niche (SPOILER: There’s major power in going deep, not wide)How she transitioned her company to an employee-owned model—freeing herself to focus on mentorship, personal growth, and big vision coachingWhy midlife isn’t a “crisis” but a sacred opportunity to reconnect to yourself and the impact you actually want to makeAli and Kris on what real leadership looks like for women founders now (Hint: it’s no longer about proving or pushing)AND the surprising rewards of slowing down, saying no, and creating space for what’s nextThis conversation is a must-listen if you’ve been feeling the nudge to do things differently and want proof that reinvention is not only possible, it can be exactly what you need.And, learn more about The Trust and Kris! Learn more about The Trust – our tight-knit community for 7+8-figure women entrepreneurs Learn more about The Child Care Success CompanyFollow Kris on InstagramConnect with us on social using the hashtag #RewardPodcast and share your key takeaways from this episode!

When it comes to wealth, most women were taught to play it safe, stay small, or hand over the reins altogether. But today’s women leaders know what’s possible when you STOP following the rules — and start building your *own* framework for success.Suzanne Powell came from humble beginnings in a trailer park outside Detroit, and today manages over $145 million in assets. How? She made a conscious decision early on: Her future would look nothing like her past. Today, she’s the vice president of Meridian Wealth Management, founder of Capital Strategies Group, and a trusted advisor to women ready to take ownership of their financial lives.o women ready to take ownership of their financial lives.In this episode of REWARD: The Podcast of The Trust, our founder and host Ali Brown sits down with Suzanne for a powerful conversation about money, motherhood, and the mindset required to create a life of freedom. They explore how women can lead in their wealth journeys, why delegation is a game changer, and how Suzanne’s approach to business and balance is helping others rise — on their own terms.On this episode of the #REWARDPodcast, you’ll hear:The moment she decided to design a life that looked radically different from the one she came from.Why financial planning is not just about the numbers — it’s about creating freedom and fulfillment.Suzanne’s refreshing take on balancing business and family without losing yourself in the process.The power of women taking the financial lead — and how The Trust became a key part of her journey.And why delegation isn’t a luxury… it’s a strategy for building the life you actually want.And, learn more about The Trust and Suzanne! Learn more about The Trust – our modern, premier network for 7+8-figure women entrepreneurs Learn more about Meridian Wealth ManagementFollow Suzanne on LinkedIn + InstagramConnect with us on social using the hashtag #RewardPodcast and share your key takeaways from this episode!

TIME SENSITIVE: The shift is happening — and it’s shaking up even the most successful among us.Lately, more women in leadership positions have been hitting the same wall: their once-thriving businesses suddenly feel off. The numbers may still look good on paper, but something deeper is misaligned. The drive’s no longer there. The clarity’s gone. And the question becomes: What now?In this solo episode of REWARD: The Podcast of The Trust, our founder Ali Brown unpacks what she’s calling “The Great Misalignment” — a collective crisis among powerful women founders who are no longer willing to sacrifice alignment for achievement.She shares the signs to look for, the myths that keep us stuck, and why reinvention doesn’t have to mean burning it all down. Instead, it can look like strategic subtraction — a shedding of what no longer fits — and rebuilding from a place of clarity, truth, and long-term vision.Ali also invites you to her upcoming FREE CLASS, "The Calling for Reinvention", and offers a glimpse into how The Trust community is supporting women at this exact moment of evolution. If you've been feeling the pull toward something deeper, this episode is your signal.And, learn more about The Trust and Ali’s upcoming call! ​Reserve your spot here for Ali’s call 'The Calling for Reinvention' Tuesday May 20 at 1pm ET​Learn more about The Trust – our modern, premier network for 7+8-figure women entrepreneurs Connect with us on social using the hashtag #RewardPodcast (and tag Ali on Linkedin or on IG at @AliBrownOfficial)... and share your key takeaways from this episode!

Even at the higher levels, women often still find themselves trapped again and again in the relentless cycle of financial pressure. It’s true that the journey to business growth and financial freedom isn’t a cake walk. But… what if the true path to abundance was learning and allowing ourselves to relax? (Hmm… sign us up!) Kate Northrup – entrepreneur, author of ‘Do Less’, and leader of the Relaxed Money revolution, is no stranger to the money stress loop. While she witnessed the intricate dance between money and life early on, it wasn’t until some unfortunate circumstances hit her own family that she learned the overwhelming link between our nervous systems and our perceived financial beliefs. Now, Kate leads entrepreneurs through pathways toward financial abundance through the integration of self-care, emotional intelligence, and revolutionary business practices – all while exploring the very loops that keep us ensnared in financial stress. In this episode of Reward, The Trust founder Ali Brown sits down with our member Kate to challenge the conventional hustle culture, and invite in more success with ease. On this episode of the #REWARDPodcast, you’ll hear: Kate's unfiltered journey through financial stress that led her to her 90-day experiment of not succumbing to stress (this was mind blowing) The role of childhood narratives in shaping our adult relationships with money… and why these subconscious scripts are both a curse and catalyst How Kate is blending financial clarity with *nervous system wellness* for unprecedented abundance – we love this approach! Why Kate loves the group dynamic within "The Trust" (Culture > Competition, every time.) Ali’s insight on how we can begin unlearning some of our financial stress behaviors through the eyes of our children AND an exclusive invitation to learn more about The Trust next week on our 2024 Spring Invitation Call! And, learn more about The Trust and Kate! Learn more about Kate’s NEW ‘Relaxed Money’ Program (+ an exclusive bonus!) Learn more about The Trust – our modern, premier network for 7+8-figure women entrepreneurs Follow The Trust on Instagram and Linkedin Follow Kate Northrup on Instagram Connect with us on social using the hashtag #RewardPodcast and share your key takeaways from this episode!

Want to hear a secret? Sometimes the masterpiece of business is a paint-by-*number*. While most women are generally great ‘earners’ as business owners – it’s time to shift focus well beyond the balance sheet and into creating a scalable, valuable ASSET that could not only be sold at some point, but benefit generations to come. For Andrea Jenson, founder + CEO of The Cash Flow CFO, curating powerful financials comes like second nature. As a fourth-generation entrepreneur, she developed a knack for decoding financial statements early on, viewing them as storytelling canvases that reveal the past, present, and future of a business. Now, her company helps business owners master financial clarity and gain strategic foresight just like the big companies do, to build value and make smarter decisions that can pay off in a huge way. In this episode of REWARD, The Trust founder Ali Brown sits down with our member Andrea to explore how mastering your numbers (and getting help to do so) is the key to growing your business into the asset you dreamed. You won't want to miss this episode to unlock untapped potential within your business! On this episode of the #REWARDPodcast, you’ll hear: Strategies for building *transferable value* within your business, enhancing market appeal, and fostering sustainable growth – especially if you’re thinking of SELLING your business in the next few years How The Cash Flow CFO – Andrea's brainchild – is revolutionizing the support small businesses receive in handling their finances Why Andrea said NO to taking over her family’s BBQ restaurant business, and wanted to go a different direction entirely. Ali’s insight on when to start thinking about preparing your business for a successful sale (before it’s too late) AND actionable tips for aligning financial goals with your business vision, driving profitability, and securing long-term success. Don't miss this enlightening episode of the #REWARDPodcast as we decode the secrets to financial success and empower you to approach your next move with confidence and clarity! And, learn more about The Trust and Andrea! Learn more about The Trust – our modern, premier network for 7+8-figure women entrepreneurs Follow The Trust on Instagram and Linkedin Follow Andrea Jenson on LinkedIn Learn more about Andrea’s The Cash Flow CFO Connect with us on social using the hashtag #RewardPodcast and share your key takeaways from this episode!

In our new-media-driven world, the pressure is constantly on to be “camera ready” and create that perfect reel or live. And that feeling is exactly what drives many impact-driven women away from being more visible via video. But what if instead of trying to curate your most perfect online persona, you instead express your most authentic self to your audience that is craving it? That’s exactly what drove Keri Murphy to create her company that generates the impact it does. Her mission is twofold: to help women articulate their unique messages and to advocate for their personal evolution. Drawing from her background as a seasoned television personality, she and her team specialize in helping entrepreneurs leverage video to build influential brands. In this episode of Reward, The Trust founder Ali Brown sits down with our member Keri to discuss the essentials of impactful video content for the modern female entrepreneur … and all the reasons why you no longer have to resist it. (Even when you have to deal with the haters.) On this episode of the #REWARDPodcast, you’ll hear: Real tips that you can use to harness your authenticity and stop fighting the video component when reaching your audience (It’s not as painful as it seems, we promise!) Keri’s motto for moving past negative comments into serving your dream clients (bless + BLOCK!) Ali’s advice on staying open to the life God has in store (HINT: The surrender actually leads to unexpected fulfillment in the long run) How self-care and taking time *slow down* are essential to avoid burnout and actually accelerate your goals. How communities like The Trust are critical for cultivating lasting, valuable connections and opportunities for women at higher levels AND… the juicy story of how Keri met her ‘dashing’ celebrity musician husband on Bumble! ;) And, learn more about The Trust and Keri! Learn more about The Trust – our modern, premier network for 7+8-figure women entrepreneurs Follow The Trust on Instagram and Linkedin Follow Keri Murphy on Instagram Learn more about Keri’s Inspired Living Connect with us on social using the hashtag #RewardPodcast and share your key takeaways from this episode!

As a female leader, have you ever felt there's more to tapping into your inherent power than meets the eye? Understanding the biology of fear and the *power* self-confidence has never been so critical – especially at this juncture. Tracy Litt is a celebrated leadership expert, certified coach, and pioneer in the field of women's personal development and empowerment. Boasting an impressive array of certifications in coaching, hypnotherapy, and neurology, Tracy is also a TEDx speaker and an accomplished author with a fervent belief in the limitless potential of the human spirit. Tracy has carved a niche in guiding high-earning female leaders and entrepreneurs into a new era of consciousness, growth, and self-realization. In this episode of Reward, The Trust founder Ali Brown sits down with our member Tracy to discuss how to ignite your inner fire and empower you to embrace the fullness of who you are. Tracy reveals her extensive research on fear and its impact on our lives, asserting the beauty of balancing accountability with radical self-compassion. Do NOT miss out on this vulnerable conversation about the essence of being untouchably powerful, yet grounded and soft — right now. On this episode of the #REWARDPodcast, you’ll hear: How Tracy’s intimate story of loss led her to question the mind-body link long before it hit the mainstream – AND how it set her path toward healing, for herself and countless others. Tracy’s advice on how we can prioritize the importance of getting back in our bodies and reignite our soul-connection The *hiring* mantra Tracy swears by to build a committed (and conscious!) company structure Ali’s advice on how a slower, more deliberate path to growth is they key to creating a real legacy A taste of 80’s nostalgia (remember those iconic Pantene commercials?) AND the call you may have been anticipating to clear emotional congestion, process deeply, and shine your light… It’s never been stronger! And, learn more about The Trust and Tracy! Learn more about The Trust – our modern, premier network for 7+8-figure women entrepreneurs Follow The Trust on Instagram and Linkedin Learn more about Tracy’s The School of Becoming Follow Tracy Litt on Instagram Connect with us on social using the hashtag #RewardPodcast and share your key takeaways from this episode!