Athena's Listening Crew Podcast

Ep14: She Did That: Nichoel Adams of Sagebrush / Saguaro

Thu, 28 May 2026 13:00:25 +0000

In this episode of Athena’s Listening Crew, Lina and Renee chat with Nichoel Adams, founder and owner of Sagebrush / Saguaro. Nichoel discussed how her love of selling her crafts in outdoor markets in New York led to opening up an Urban Plant Shoppe and Gift Emporium Arizona. She talks about her journey of following her heart to San Diego and how she thrived in the outdoor market scene there, to feeling at home in Tucson but struggled with the market scene. Thus leading her to open a brick and mortar store in the heart of the historic downtown. And let’s not forget Mr. Bubbles, the sweet and loveable shop dog.

You can find Nichoel and Mr. Bubbles on IG at @sagebrush.saguaro and in Tucson on the historic 4th Avenue. You can also find Nichoel at @studionichoel.

We’d love to hear from you. You can find us on IG and YouTube at Athena's listening crew, and reach out to us at athenaslisteningcrew@gmail.com if there are any topics you’d like us to explore, or if you’re a woman business owner interested in joining the podcast to share your journey.

Ep13: Lucky 13 in Business and Defying the Odds

Thu, 21 May 2026 13:00:45 +0000

The ladies are back this week discussing Lucky 13 on Athena’s Listening Crew while celebrating not only the number 13, but life as well. This episode explores how superstition shapes the way we think, decide, and move through uncertainty—offering a sense of control that can calm anxiety and boost confidence, while also opening the door to irrational choices and ritualistic habits. From the Western avoidance of 13 to cultural beliefs around numbers like 4 and 8, the crew unpacks how meaning is assigned, challenged, and sometimes completely redefined.

They also dive into how superstition shows up in business and success, from lucky charms and routines to the stories of well-known figures who leaned into their rituals—from athletes with game-day habits to entrepreneurs who built brands around “lucky” numbers. With examples like Friday the 13th defying expectations in the stock market and trailblazers who turned superstition into strategy, this episode invites listeners to rethink what’s luck, what’s mindset, and how belief itself can shape outcomes.

Ep12: She Did That - Alejandre “Chef Alex” Richards of The Tie Kitchen

Thu, 14 May 2026 13:00:52 +0000

Welcome back to Athena’s Listening Crew, where we highlight inspiring women entrepreneurs making an impact. In this episode, we feature Chef Alejandre “Chef Alex” Richards, the creator of The Tie Kitchen in Tucson, Arizona. A private chef, cookbook author, and founder of the Community Garden, Chef Alex brings people together through intimate dining experiences and pop-up events rooted in connection and sustainability. Tune in as we explore her unique approach to food, community, and building a purpose-driven business.

We’d love to hear from you. Reach out to us at athenaslisteningcrew@gmail.com or message us via IG if there are any topics you’d like us to explore, or if you’re a woman business owner interested in joining the podcast to share your journey.

Ep11: Badass Mantras for the Modern Goddess Entrepreneur

Thu, 07 May 2026 13:00:41 +0000

In this episode of Athena’s Listening Crew, Lina and Renee break down why mantras aren’t soft affirmations—they’re sharp, truth-based operating principles that change how you think, act, and lead. Designed for women in business, these “badass mantras” cut through fear, imposter syndrome, and burnout, helping you move with clarity and authority when things get hard.

You’ll learn how to create and use mantras through intention, spoken practice, and full embodiment—so they don’t just sound good, they transform how you show up. Whether you’re just starting out, scaling your business, or pushing through challenges, this episode delivers powerful, actionable mantras to anchor your mindset, sharpen your decisions, and step fully into your role as the leader of your life and business.

And finally: Do No Harm, Take No Shit! 💙🦉

Ep10: She Did That: Lisa Swanson of Body & Soul Coaching

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 13:00:34 +0000

Today on Athena’s Listening Crew, we sat down with Lisa Swanson, founder of Body & Soul Coaching. A single mom turned successful entrepreneur, Lisa brings over 40 years of experience helping women navigate fitness and weight loss.

After noticing a major gap in support for women over 50—especially post-menopause—Lisa shifted her focus to empowering this often-overlooked group. Through her three-pillar approach of aligned nutrition, progressive overload, and empowered thoughts, she helps women embrace where they are now and build vibrant, healthy lives.You can find Lisa at www.bodyandsoulcoaching, IG/FB @lisaswansonfit

Ep9: When the Warrior Goddesses Come Together!

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 13:00:52 +0000

In this episode of Athena’s Listening Crew, Lina and Renee celebrate trailblazing women across history—beginning with the legendary Madame Clicquot Ponsardin, the visionary widow who transformed the champagne industry during the Napoleonic era. We then trace the powerful evolution of women entrepreneurs through history—from Madam C.J. Walker’s groundbreaking 1917 convention to today’s global conferences, networking events, and investment summits designed to elevate women in business. This conversation is a reminder that women have always been builders, innovators, and forces of change—and the future is still being written.

We’d love to hear from you. You can find us on IG and YouTube at Athenas listening crew, and reach out to us at athenaslisteningcrew@gmail.com if there are any topics you’d like us to explore, or if you’re a woman business owner interested in joining the podcast to share your journey.

Ep8: She Did That: Isabel Georgelos from the WYCA

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 13:00:42 +0000

On today’s episode, we interview Isabel Georgelos as the Deputy Director of the YWCA of Southern Arizona, where she leads programs advancing economic justice, health and well-being, and community advocacy for women. She joined the organization in 2021 as Director of the Women’s Business Center, one of the largest in the country, supporting over 1,500 entrepreneurs each year with training, counseling, and technical assistance.

A first-generation college graduate, Isabel brings more than 25 years of corporate leadership experience with major national retailers. She is deeply committed to helping women achieve financial stability and long-term economic growth through career readiness and entrepreneurship—believing that when women thrive, families and communities thrive.

She also serves on the Child & Family Resources state board and lives in Tucson, Arizona, with her husband of 35 years.

You can find more about Isabel and the YWCA Women’s Business Center at https://www.wbcofsouthernarizona.com/

We’d love to hear from you. Reach out to us at athenaslisteningcrew@gmail.com if there are any topics you’d like us to explore, or if you’re a woman business owner interested in joining the podcast to share your journey.

Ep7: Real Talk - Before the Burnout

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 13:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Renee and Lina get real about burnout—how it shows up, why it happens, and what you can do to prevent it. They walk through the signs to watch for, simple ways to take care of yourself, and how to keep growing your business without sacrificing your well-being.

Ep6: She Did That: Rebecca's Blueprint

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 13:00:24 +0000

On today’s episode, we welcome Rebecca Cutehands, a spiritual and intuitive guide who has devoted more than thirty years to walking a sacred path of learning, ceremony, and healing. Rebecca shares Indigenous teachings from many different cultures and traditions, carrying forward the wisdom generously entrusted to her by the many teachers and Elders she has sat with over the years. She hosts ceremonies throughout the year and offers both individual and group healings and teachings. She embraces life as a devoted student of Creation, meeting each day — and each person — with humility, reverence, and gratitude.

You can find Rebecca on https://mountainspiritco-op.com/members/, https://mshec3.com/ or contact her at (mobile) 928-499-4128.

Ep5: Trail Blazing Goddesses and Biz 101: Business Registration

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 13:00:15 +0000

In this episode of Athena’s Listening Crew, Renee and Lina kick things off by spotlighting Lydia Estes Pinkham, a trailblazing entrepreneur whose bold approach to business and marketing helped shape the path for women in business today.

From there, they dive into the practical side of entrepreneurship—breaking down what it actually takes to register your business. They share helpful resources, simplify the process, and explore which states make it easier (or more challenging) to get started.

Ep4: She Did That: Amanda Schneider of Loving My Skin Spa

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 13:00:13 +0000

On today’s episode, we interview Amanda Schneider who is living proof that our greatest challenges can become powerful catalysts for change. A domestic violence and cancer survivor, she transformed her healing journey into a mission of empowerment—helping others discover their strength, beauty and resilience.

Today, Amanda is an internationally awarded esthetician and proud owner of Loving My Skin Spa and SkinNerd Training. Known affectionately as “The SkinNerd,” she combines ingredient science with a holistic approach to skincare—believing true radiance comes from nurturing the whole person. Through her spa, her training programs, her leadership in esthetics education, and her women’s empowerment retreats, Amanda’s message is simple but powerful: You are stronger than you know and you deserve to love the skin you’re in—literally and figuratively.

You can find Amanda on FB @lovingmyskinspa, IG @lovingmyskinspa and email Info@lovingmyskinspa.com

Ep3: Real Talk: Why she hesitates

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 13:00:03 +0000

In this episode, Renee and Lina have an honest conversation about the resistance many women entrepreneurs face—both internal and external. They explore self-doubt, confidence gaps, fear of disappointing others, and the tendency to treat a business like a hobby, alongside real-world barriers such as limited funding, lack of support or networks, and the double burden of caregiving. Throughout the episode, Lina and Renee share practical ways to recognize resistance, move through it, and keep building without abandoning yourself in the process.

Ep2: Biz 101: What's In a Name

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 13:00:13 +0000

In Business 101: What’s in a Name, Lina and Renee explore the often-overlooked challenge of naming a business. They talk through the logistics, the emotional weight behind the decision, common pitfalls, and real-world naming mistakes—while sharing their own experiences along the way.

We’d love to hear from you. Reach out to us at athenaslisteningcrew@gmail.com if you have a story behind how you named your business, topics you’d like us to explore, or if you’re a woman business owner interested in joining the podcast to share your journey.

Ep1: Welcome to Our First Episode!

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 02:42:44 +0000

Renee and Lina introduces themselves and discuss how ALC was created out of their desire to provide a supportive listening platform for women entrepreneurs and women who are in pursuit of becoming one, and the plans they have for ALC.

We’d love to hear from you. Reach out to us at athenaslisteningcrew@gmail.com if you have topics you’d like us to explore, or if you’re a woman business owner interested in joining the podcast to share your journey.