Welcome back to The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook Podcast—I’m your host, Dr. Dawn, and today’s episode is extra special. Not only is it our 75th episode, but it also marks my return to the mic after a much-needed, intentional break. After a season of rest, reflection, and realignment, The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook Podcast is BACK—with a powerful new episode on one of the most underused career tools: Knowing when—and how—to say NO. In this comeback episode, I’m sharing: ✔ Why I took a podcast break and prioritized paying clients over free content ✔ 3 simple scripts and strategies to protect your time ✔ A fresh new plan for how I’m showing up consistently (without burning out) If you’ve ever said yes when you really wanted to say no—this one’s for you. Ok you guys, so let me take you back to the beginning and share a personal story as to WHY I decided to take this break and HOW prioritization plays into all of this. It starts in Paris, France and ended in Cancun Mexico. That’s right, it started with 2 amazing family vacations I took this year. Let’s start in Paris… (Provence and Paris)…now let’s move on to the sandy beaches of Cancún, Mexico. After ALL was said and done, when I got back, I had a calendar full of coaching clients and workshops. So, I took my own advice and focused on the parts of my business that generate revenue and impact the most people one-on-one. This show—and my YouTube channel—are ad-free, by choice. And while that means I’m not monetizing these platforms yet, it also means I have to be fiercely protective of my time. But friends—I missed this. I missed you. So I’m back, and going forward, I’ll be simplifying things with shorter, more intentional episodes that still deliver value without burning me—or you—out. Let’s dive in! ________________________________________ Today we’re talking about when it’s OK to say no—and how to do it without guilt. As career women, we’re often expected to do it all, be everywhere, and say yes to everything. But let me tell you something I had to learn the hard way: saying no is not selfish—it’s strategic. Here are three powerful tips to help you start protecting your time and energy like the queen you are: ________________________________________ 💡 Tip #1: Ask Yourself — “Is this a yes to my bigger vision?” Every time you say yes to something, you’re saying no to something else. So ask yourself: “Is this in alignment with where I want to go?” This simple pause can save you from weeks of frustration or unnecessary obligation. ________________________________________ 💡 Tip #2: Use the “Soft No, Strong Boundary” Technique Here’s a script you can borrow: “Thanks so much for thinking of me, but I need to pass this time to stay focused on my priorities.” That’s it. Kind. Clear. No need to explain further. Boundaries build trust—with yourself and others. ________________________________________ 💡 Tip #3: Schedule your Time like a Meeting If your calendar has no white space, it means you’re always reacting, not leading. Block off time for thinking, resting, or just being. You wouldn’t cancel a meeting with your boss—so don’t cancel the ones with yourself. ________________________________________ These three tips will help you say no with grace and say yes to what actually matters. And that, my friend, is the key to a sustainable, fulfilling, and focused career. Don’t wait until you’re exhausted or overwhelmed to create boundaries. Use “no” like a filter—and protect the space you need to grow. Thanks for tuning in to this milestone episode of The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook, and don't forget our motto: "If you're not having a fantastic day, you have the power to make it one!" NEW HERE? DO THESE THINGS FIRST! 1. CHECK OUT our other Monthly Motivation Interviews! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l3wzWcwPM8w&list=PLdguFjdYMwqWXnvIeSAIhDrtPdHdsLGde 2. CHECK OUT our Summer Vacation Packing Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PBCrY8DwHgo&t=3s 3. CHECK OUT our Are You an Overthinker Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BknGDCxq7-I&t=1s 4. GET YOUR COPY of The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook! o Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Career-Womans-Secret-Playbook 5. GRAB YOUR FREEBIES! https://www.drdawnshoptalk.com 6. CONTACT ME: drdawn@drdawnshoptalk.com ________________________________________ #CareerWomanPlaybook #SayNoToBurnout #Prioritization #WomenInLeadership #CareerSuccess

Are you considering a career change? If so, have you ever thought about working for a cause you truly believe in? If this sounds like you, you’re going to love today’s Monthly Motivation interview with Kelly Fleming, the Executive Director of Habitat for Humanity of Central Arkansas. Kelly left a high-paying job to find personal fulfillment in the nonprofit world. Her story will inspire you to not be afraid to take a leap of faith AND is a powerful reminder that salary isn’t everything. Kelly’s leadership and vision are a testament to the impact that women can have when they step into positions of influence and create opportunities for others. To our wonderful listeners: if you’ve been inspired by Kelly’s journey, I encourage you to look into ways you can support Habitat for Humanity of Central Arkansas. Whether it’s donating to The Restore, volunteering on a build, or simply spreading the word about their mission, you have the power to make a difference. Don’t forget our motto here at ShopTalk: “if you’re not having a fantastic day, YOU have the power to make it one!” AND don’t forget to subscribe, rate, review and share this episode! HOW TO CONTACT TODAY'S GUEST: KELLY FLEMING • Email: KellyF@HABITATCENTRALAR.ORG • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-fleming-4325097 • Website: https://www.habitatcentralar.org • Restore: https://www.habitatcentralar.org/restore NEW HERE? DO THESE 2 THINGS FIRST! 1. Check out our other Monthly Motivation Interviews! o Want to Make Bold Moves in your Life? Interview with Best Selling Author and Award-Winning Journalist and Influencer Dominique Sachse: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X80oNmJPG1E&t=513s o It’s Never too Late to Pivot: Interview with Commercial Real Estate Expert Tiffani Silvey: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4A4WlNyOBGo&t=11s o Taking Care of Family Business: Two Sisters Kristin & Devon McCrossin Share their Success Story in the Digital Media and Advertising Business: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6fR_clXjZ-4&t=4s o Have you Ever Thought of Opening your Own Franchise? Interview with Chicken Salad Chick Franchise Owner Emily Gray: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fOlEmZlyDZo&t=324s o Do you Want to Know How to Start your Own Business? Interview with Business Expert and Podcast Host Kimberly Brock: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BXnOWe4NtT4&t=9s 2. Get your copy of The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook! o Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Career-Womans-Secret-Playbook GRAB YOUR FREEBIES! https://www.drdawnshoptalk.com CONTACT ME: drdawn@drdawnshoptalk.com

Dr. Dawn here, YOUR personal Career Coach and I want to welcome you to our Podcast! Now, if you’re feeling stuck in your career, unsure of your next step, OR simply craving a change of pace, but don’t know where to start—today’s episode is just PERFECT for you! I’m giving you 5 Power Tips that will help you get unstuck and regain your momentum. Tune in to today's episode to get ALL of this info, here are the highlights starting with why feeling stuck is actually a GOOD thing! Feeling stuck can be incredibly frustrating, but it’s also a signal that something needs to change—and that IS a good thing! It means you’re no longer happy with the status quo AND you’re ready for growth, new challenges, OR maybe just a fresh direction. Your next steps will be to start reframing your setbacks as comebacks and THEN move on to creating a powerful mindset shift so that you are ready for my favorite Power Tips to Get Unstuck: Ready? Here we go: 1) I want you to Do a Career Audit – In other words take an honest look at what’s working, what’s not, and what needs to change, 2) Reignite Your Passion – You guys, if you are struggling with this, not only do we have YouTube videos about this very topic, but I have a whole chapter devoted to it in my book AND even have a video class you can take on my website. 3) I want you to Invest in Growth – Whether it’s a new skill, networking, or mentorship, forward motion is key, and guess what, you are already doing this by taking the time to listen to a podcast about this subject, 4) Shake Up Your Routine - A small change in habits or environment can spark fresh perspectives, Last but not least, 5) take Bold Action – Don’t you love that? Betting on yourself is NEVER wrong and sometimes, you have to make the first move before clarity arrives! NEW HERE? DO THESE 2 THINGS FIRST! 1. Check out the Videos: o The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6fR_clXjZ-4&list=PLdguFjdYMwqWXnvIeSAIhDrtPdHdsLGde o How to NOT be an Overthinker: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BknGDCxq7-I o Want to Make Bold Moves in your Life: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X80oNmJPG1E&t=513s o New Year to a New You Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5qi8QjvRo2U&list=PLdguFjdYMwqVo8474vl_u7hMiaE_ctDt0 o Passion & Purpose Secrets: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLdguFjdYMwqXQM8PrQlBP-AxrPX-bV2q8 2. Get your copy of The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook! o Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Career-Womans-Secret-Playbook GRAB YOUR FREEBIES! https://www.drdawnshoptalk.com CONTACT ME: drdawn@drdawnshoptalk.com

Our self-talk is the most potent drug you’ll ever take, and right now, you’re either using it to empower yourself, or tear yourself down. When you tell yourself you can’t do something, your brain literally shuts down the production of the neurotransmitters that would make it possible. Negative self-talk programs your cells to malfunction, your genes to express disease patterns, and your neural networks to strengthen pathways of limitation. Your internal dialogue isn’t just mental chatter; it’s a biochemical control system advancing or reversing your evolution with every single word. Most people live on autopilot, letting their inner voice repeat old programs. This voice isn’t harmless; it’s programming their future. Through intentional self-talk, you’re not just changing your mind—you’re rewiring your brain, reshaping your biology, and transforming your reality. Tune in to today's episode for all the specifics, but here are the 5 ways the top 1% of executives use positive self-talk to drive their success: 1. Reframing Challenges as Opportunities; 2. Affirming Confidence and Capability; 3. Visualizing Success; 4. Neutralizing Negative Thoughts; 5. Focusing on Their "Why." So, as we wrap up today’s episode, I challenge you to try this: Pick just one of these strategies and put it into practice this week. Whether it’s neutralizing a negative thought or visualizing your next big win. As the saying goes, 'Whether you think you can or think you can’t, you’re right.' So, let’s think like the top 1%, act like the top 1%, and step into that powerful version of ourselves. Don't forget our motto here at ShopTalk that reminds us of how much power we have over our day and it goes like this: if you’re not having a fantastic day, you have the power to make it one! Thanks for tuning in, and I’ll see you in the next episode where we’ll tackle even more ways to level up in your career. For MORE weekly tips, follow us @drdawnshoptalk - we're on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram! NEW HERE? DO THESE 2 THINGS FIRST! 1. Check out the Videos: o The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6fR_clXjZ-4&list=PLdguFjdYMwqWXnvIeSAIhDrtPdHdsLGde o Mindset & Confidence Secrets Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=klxaMDeQCXU&list=PLdguFjdYMwqXrgiI1YaB87uHu1gm_mczc o Upskilling Secrets: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bm6ro9LlUMA&list=PLdguFjdYMwqX3gnuMSrLgaN7hXBSWhqmO o Building your Brand Secrets: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PRK7Ep29SkQ&list=PLdguFjdYMwqVLPsFZjl-Do8eH7leltW8O 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! https://www.drdawnshoptalk.com CONTACT ME: drdawn@drdawnshoptalk.com https://www.youtube.com/@drdawnshoptalk/podcasts

Today’s episode is all about harnessing the power of affirmations to set the tone for a confident, balanced, and successful day. That’s right, we’re diving into how morning affirmations can help you Thrive in 2025—our theme for the year. If you joined us for the New Year to a New You 5-Day Challenge, you know how important building momentum toward your goals can be. If you missed it, no worries! Check out our playlist on YouTube for inspiration. Today, we’re breaking down why affirmations work, common struggles, and how to make them a game-changer for your mindset. Stick around for five powerful affirmations designed to help you stress less, achieve more, and maintain that all-important work-life balance. Plus, I’ll share a sneak peek of our upcoming Stress Less, Achieve More workshop—whether you join in person or virtually, you won’t want to miss it! Morning affirmations can be a powerful tool, but not everyone experiences the success they’re hoping for. Why is that? To understand this, we need to explore the law of attraction and how it ties into affirmations. The law of attraction hinges on three main principles: 1. Ask: Define what you want with clarity and intention. 2. Believe: Cultivate unwavering faith that you deserve and will receive what you desire. 3. Receive: Align your energy and actions to welcome what you’re manifesting into your life. So why do affirmations seem to work for some, but not others? 1. Lack of Belief in the Affirmation, 2. Neglecting Emotional Alignment, 3. Impatience or Lack of Consistency, 4.Focusing on What You Don’t Want, and/or 5. Not Taking Action If you’ve struggled with affirmations in the past, start small and focus on affirmations that feel real and attainable. Combine them with visualizations, gratitude, and actionable steps to bring the law of attraction into full force. With persistence and the right mindset, you can harness the power of affirmations to truly thrive in 2025 and beyond. Affirmation to Get You Started: Today, I’m going to share 5 powerful affirmations to get you started AND I’m going to let you in on how you can get access to all 10 - these are specifically designed to help you stress less, achieve more, and maintain that all-important work-life balance. You can use these affirmations daily to ground yourself and focus your energy. 1. "I am in control of my time and energy. I choose to focus on what truly matters." o Prioritize wisely to stress less and achieve more. 2. "I am capable of handling whatever comes my way today with grace and confidence." o Believe in your ability to navigate challenges with poise. 3. "I deserve a fulfilling life that balances my work and personal happiness." o Balance is not just a goal—it’s a right. 4. "I am focused, productive, and energized to accomplish my goals." o Set the tone with purpose and motivation. 5. "I set healthy boundaries that protect my time, energy, and well-being." o Empower yourself to say no when needed and prioritize self-care. Upcoming Workshop: Stress Less, Achieve More Without Sacrificing Work-Life Balance These affirmations are just a sneak peek of what we’ll cover in our Stress Less, Achieve More Without Sacrificing Work-Life Balance Workshop on January 16th, from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM. If you’re in the Little Rock area, join us in person at the Aloft Hotel, with a free luncheon catered by Chicken Salad Chick. Not local? No problem—we’ve got a virtual option via Zoom so you can join from anywhere. If you can’t make it, visit our website and fill out a contact form to request a copy of these affirmations. We’re committed to helping you thrive in every way possible this year. Head to www.drdawnshoptalk.com to find out more about our 2025 Workshop Schedule and to access all of our Free Resources! Final Thoughts Morning affirmations are a small but mighty tool to help you start your day with purpose, confidence, and balance. Pair them with the momentum we’ve been building through our 5-Day Challenge, and you’ll be unstoppable in 2025. Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast and leave a review—your feedback means the world to me! And head over to YouTube to check out our New Year to a New You Playlist for more inspiration. Until next time, remember: You’ve got this, and I’ve got you! Let’s make 2025 the year we truly thrive. NEW HERE? DO THESE 2 THINGS FIRST! 1. Check out the Videos: o The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6fR_clXjZ-4&list=PLdguFjdYMwqWXnvIeSAIhDrtPdHdsLGde o New Year to a New You Challenge Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xgAEXg2YzJg&list=PLdguFjdYMwqVo8474vl_u7hMiaE_ctDt0 2. Get your copy of The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook! o Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Career-Womans-Secret-Playbook GRAB YOUR FREEBIES! https://www.drdawnshoptalk.com CONTACT ME: drdawn@drdawnshoptalk.com

In today's challenge, we were asking our participants to sharpen their skills by identifying 1 new thing to learn today that will propel them toward achieving their goals because, why not? In other words, why wait? People talk a big game about growth and self-improvement but are they really moving forward on their goals, or are they stuck. That's what today's challenge is all about. Today we are also meeting at 12 Noon, instead of 5:30 PM, to give folks the change to join us on their lunch hour rather than taking any time away from spending time with their family and friends as they start the weekend. Today also marks the end of our 2025 New Year to a New You 5-Day Challenge and at the end of our broadcast, we will be drawing the name of our door prize winner Live and on the air! 🎙️ New to streaming or looking to level up? Check out StreamYard and get $10 discount! 😍 https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6187744108216320

Today's challenge is all about getting clear of 5 non-negotiables you have for yourself in the new year. These are THE habits and priorities that you believe will guide you in thriving in 2025. You will not only hear what my 5 goals are for the year, but if you are part of our Livestream, you can share yours as well! 🎙️ New to streaming or looking to level up? Check out StreamYard and get $10 discount! 😍 https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6187744108216320

Come join us for Day 3 of our 5-Day Challenge for our New Year to a New You. Today is "Say the Word Wednesday," where you pick one word, and one word only, to describe your overall goals for the year. 🎙️ New to streaming or looking to level up? Check out StreamYard and get $10 discount! 😍 https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6187744108216320

They say, "Beware of meeting your idols—they’ll disappoint you." But my guest today, Dominique Sachse, is the exception to that rule. I had the privilege of meeting her in person when I appeared on her podcast, Over 50 & Flourishing, and let me tell you—she’s even more beautiful, kind, and inspiring in real life. I know you’re going to love her as much as I do. Dominique is an Emmy-winning journalist, bestselling author, and empowering voice for women navigating midlife. With nearly three decades as a beloved news anchor in Houston, she built a reputation for authenticity and connection. Since stepping away from television, she’s grown a digital empire focused on lifestyle, beauty, and personal growth, with nearly 4 million followers. Her book, Life Makeover: Embrace the Bold, Beautiful, and Blessed You, is packed with inspiration and practical advice for creating a fulfilling life at ANY age. Through her podcast, Dominique continues to uplift women with meaningful conversations that inspire reinvention and intentional living. Today, as we kick off Monthly Motivation for the New Year, Dominique will share how to face life’s challenges with grace, faith, and resilience. Get ready to thrive in 2025—this is going to be a conversation you don’t want to miss, right here on The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook Podcast. NEW HERE? DO THESE 2 THINGS FIRST! 1. Check out our Other Monthly Motivation Series Videos: • When is it Time to Pivot? It’s Never Too Late! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4A4WlNyOBGo&t=9s • Think You Can Work with Family? These 2 Sisters Show You How: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6fR_clXjZ-4&t=2s • Opening a Franchise vs. Starting your Own Business: Franchise Owner Emily Gray Spills the Tea: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fOlEmZlyDZo&t=323s • Learn How to Start Your Own Business from Entrepreneur & Podcast Host Kimberly Broch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BXnOWe4NtT4&t=5s 2. Get your copy of The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook! o Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Career-Womans-Secret-Playbook GRAB YOUR FREEBIES! https://www.drdawnshoptalk.com CONTACT ME: drdawn@drdawnshoptalk.com TO CONTACT/LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR SPECIAL GUEST TODAY: Follow Dominique Sachse: TikTok: / dominiquesachse Instagram: / dominiquesachse Facebook: / dominiquesachse Subscribe: http://bit.ly/subdominique Watch the latest videos: • Latest Uploads | Dominique Sachse

Join us for De-Tech Tuesday where we will take a step back from technology and be more present in the moment - the challenge is to do so for AT LEAST 20 minutes during a time where you would usually be looking at your screens. 🎙️ New to streaming or looking to level up? Check out StreamYard and get $10 discount! 😍 https://streamyard.com/pal/d/6187744108216320

Here's our recap from Day 1 of our New Year to a New You Challenge. Remember that our Livestreams are from 5:30 PM - 5:45 PM and you can join us anytime. Be sure to email us to get registered AND you will also receive your Free checklists and cheat sheets all about which challenge we will be working on when. In today's livestream I shared how my husband and I were bringing back our cash envelopes! We have some savings goals this year and cash envelopes REALLY helped us achieve those last time. Thank you SO much for those of you that joined us! See you tomorrow at 5:30 PM for our De-Tech Tuesday Challenge!

If you want to thrive in 2025, join us for our New Year to a New You. This Free 5-day challenge which includes a checklist of challenges and a cheat sheet to show you exactly what to do. Here at ShopTalk we LOVE a New Year and what it represents: a fresh start and a new beginning, and so all of our New year challenges are designed to help you get your new year off on the right foot. Offering this challenge each and every way is our way to thank your audience and our clients for supporting our business. These kinds of challenges never expire so be sure to check out our other videos in this series and we hope to see you at our Livestream, which starts today. Email us at drdawn@drdawnshoptalk.com or tag us @drdawnshoptalk for your materials and the link to our livestream. We meet at 5:30 PM Monday - Thursday, and 12 Noon on Friday where we will draw the name of our 2025 Door Prize winner Live and on the air. NEW HERE? DO THESE 2 THINGS FIRST! 1. Check out our Other New Year/New You Challenges: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xgAEXg2YzJg&list=PLdguFjdYMwqVo8474vl_u7hMiaE_ctDt0 2. Get your copy of The Career Woman’s Secret Playbook! o Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Career-Womans-Secret-Playbook GRAB YOUR FREEBIES! https://www.drdawnshoptalk.com CONTACT ME: drdawn@drdawnshoptalk.com