Why Not Today? Podcast - Season 4, Episode 25: AI, Marketing, and Courage in Business with Madeline McMahon

In this episode of the Why Not Today? Podcast, I welcome back Madeline McMahon, marketing strategist, fractional business development expert, and AI enthusiast. Madeline brings a wealth of practical insights for small business owners who want to make smarter decisions about their marketing, budgets, and technology tools. From using AI to vet vendors to finding your real bandwidth for consistent marketing, she shares honest lessons from her own entrepreneurial journey and tips you can put into action right away.

What You’ll Hear

- Practical ways to use AI beyond content creation, including vendor vetting

- Why consistency is about bandwidth, not just frequency

- Tools and tips for making AI work for you, including Prompt Cowboy

- The difference between Google and AI for business problem solving

- How conversations and collaboration spark better ideas and smarter use of technology

Whether you are new to AI or looking to refine how you use it, this episode offers clear, actionable strategies to help you invest your time and resources wisely.

Leslie supports women in three ways. Join the Women Taking Action Inner Circle for weekly group coaching and accountability. Sign up for monthly workshops to learn new skills and stay focused on what matters most. And if you want personal support, Courage Coaching gives you one-on-one guidance to help you take bold steps toward your goals.

You are just one brave step away from changing everything.

Have a story of courage? Apply to be a guest at www.whynottodaymovement.com/podcasts. Ready to grow with courage and connection? Listen now and then share this episode with a friend who needs it!

Contact Madeline -

www.beerpaysthebills.com

madeline@beerpaysthebills.com

- Facebook - www.facebook.com/madelinereginaceleste/

- Instagram -www.instagram.com/madelinereginaceleste/

- LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/madelinermcmahon/

Explore the Why Not Today? Movement: www.whynottodaymovement.com

Connect with Leslie at leslie@whynottodaymovement.com

- Facebook - www.facebook.com/groups/womentakingactiongroup

- Instagram - www.instagram.com/whynottodaymovement

- LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/leslie-kane-3825222

- YouTube - www.youtube.com/@whynottodaymovement

📢 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode to inspire others to take their own Why Not Today? moment!

Why Not Today? Podcast - Season 4, Episode 24: How to Suck as a Leader with Travis Dalrymple

In this episode, Leslie welcomes back Travis Dalrymple, a coach, entrepreneur, and author of How to Suck as a Leader. Travis dives deep into the importance of self-improvement for business owners and shares how his journey of personal growth led him to write this insightful book. If you're looking to level up your leadership skills and avoid the common mistakes many leaders make, this episode is a must-listen.

Episode Highlights:

- Travis’ “Why Not Today?” moment of quitting his stable job to align with his values and pursue entrepreneurship

- How leadership challenges in business are often rooted in personal growth

- Key takeaways from Travis’ book How to Suck as a Leader, which offers actionable advice on fixing the top mistakes leaders make

Key Takeaways:

- Your business success is directly tied to your personal growth—tactics alone won’t get you to where you want to be.

- Courage is not about waiting for the perfect moment—it’s about taking action despite fear.

- Leadership is about creating a team that follows with purpose, not just tolerance.

Don’t miss out on the powerful insights from Travis Dalrymple’s new book, How to Suck as a Leader. If you’re ready to improve your leadership skills and avoid common pitfalls, grab your copy now at this link. https://amzn.to/4otJZSe

Leslie supports women in three ways. Join the Women Taking Action Inner Circle for weekly group coaching and accountability. Sign up for monthly workshops to learn new skills and stay focused on what matters most. And if you want personal support, Courage Coaching gives you one-on-one guidance to help you take bold steps toward your goals.

You are just one brave step away from changing everything.

Contact Travis -

www.travisdalrymple.com

travis.dalrymple@gmail.com

- Facebook - www.facebook.com/travis.dalrymple1/

- Instagram -www.instagram.com/travdalrymple/

- LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/travisdalrymple/

Explore the Why Not Today? Movement: www.whynottodaymovement.com

Connect with Leslie at leslie@whynottodaymovement.com

- Facebook - www.facebook.com/groups/womentakingactiongroup

- Instagram - www.instagram.com/whynottodaymovement

- LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/leslie-kane-3825222

- YouTube - www.youtube.com/@whynottodaymovement

📢 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode to inspire others to take their own Why Not Today? moment!

Season 4, Episode 23: When to Pivot and Persevere: Lessons from Rebekah Murray

In this episode, Leslie Kane talks with entrepreneur Rebekah Murray, co-owner of Dare Gift Boxes, about her journey from destination wedding photography to launching a clothing line and ultimately pivoting into a thriving gift box business. Rebekah shares how courage, perseverance, and a willingness to embrace change can lead to unexpected success.

Highlights include:

• How a “why not today” moment led Rebekah to start her first fashion business

• The lessons learned from setbacks, grit, and manufacturing challenges

• How a pivot during Covid transformed her business into a successful gift box company

• The balance of optimism, perseverance, and experimentation in entrepreneurship

If this episode inspired you or made you think of someone dreaming of starting a business, share it with them. Take one brave step toward your own vision today.

Want to take action with more courage and confidence?

Leslie supports women in three ways. Join the Women Taking Action Inner Circle for weekly group coaching and accountability. Sign up for monthly workshops to learn new skills and stay focused on what matters most. And if you want personal support, Courage Coaching gives you one-on-one guidance to help you take bold steps toward your goals.

You are just one brave step away from changing everything.

Have a story of courage? Apply to be a guest at www.whynottodaymovement.com/podcasts. Ready to grow with courage and connection? Listen now and then share this episode with a friend who needs it!

Contact Rebekah -

www.daregiftboxes.com

rebekah@daregiftboxes.com

- Instagram -www.instagram.com/daregiftboxes

- LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/rebekahjmurray/

Explore the Why Not Today? Movement: www.whynottodaymovement.com

Connect with Leslie at leslie@whynottodaymovement.com

- Facebook - www.facebook.com/groups/womentakingactiongroup

- Instagram - www.instagram.com/whynottodaymovement

- LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/leslie-kane-3825222

- YouTube - www.youtube.com/@whynottodaymovement

📢 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode to inspire others to take their own Why Not Today? moment!

Season 4, Episode 22: Choosing Alignment Over Expectation with Alice Chen

In this inspiring episode, Leslie welcomes Alice Chen, educator, artist, and founder of Wayfinding Wisdom. Alice shares how a life-changing conversation with her father encouraged her to stop splitting her energy and fully commit to a business and lifestyle aligned with her true self.

From her journey of leaving a traditional career to embrace her creative and entrepreneurial spirit, to her lessons learned through knitting, surfing, and building community, Alice offers practical wisdom for anyone feeling pulled in too many directions.

Highlights from the episode:

- The moment Alice chose full alignment over a stable but unfulfilling path

- How a serious injury led to unexpected healing and creativity through knitting

- What the “Beauty Project” is and how it cultivates mindfulness and presence

- Why creativity is not optional for entrepreneurs—it’s essential

- How to embrace evolution in business without feeling like you’re starting over

- The three types of mentors we all need: people who guide us, walk with us, and grow because of us

Want More Clarity, Confidence, and Simplicity in Your Business? Each month, Leslie hosts live workshops designed for solopreneurs who want to cut through the chaos, focus on what matters, and take aligned action. With over 30 years of experience mentoring women, Leslie brings inspiration, strategy, and support through the Why Not Today? Movement.

You are just one brave step away from changing everything.

Have a story of courage? Apply to be a guest at www.whynottodaymovement.com/podcasts. Ready to grow with courage and connection? Listen now and then share this episode with a friend who needs it..

Contact Alice -

www.wayfindingwisdom.com

alice@wayfindingwisdom.com

- Facebook - www.facebook.com/alice.chen.5264/

- Instagram - www.instagram.com/wayfindingwisdom

- LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/alice-chen-medt-cpc-958b41a6/

Explore the Why Not Today? Movement: www.whynottodaymovement.com

Connect with Leslie at leslie@whynottodaymovement.com

- Facebook - www.facebook.com/groups/womentakingactiongroup

- Instagram - www.instagram.com/whynottodaymovement

- LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/leslie-kane-3825222

- YouTube - www.youtube.com/@whynottodaymovement

📢 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode to inspire others to take their own Why Not Today? moment!

Season 4, Episode 21: The Power of Connection, Community and Finding Your People with Leslie

In this solo episode, host Leslie Kane explores why we are not meant to do business or life alone. She shares her personal journey and insights from over 30 years as an entrepreneur and why she believes that courage grows in community, confidence grows in consistency, and clarity grows when you connect.

Leslie reflects on the moments, conversations and small nudges that lead to meaningful relationships and opportunities. Whether you're launching something new, pivoting or simply looking for support, this episode offers practical ideas to help you build and strengthen your inner circle.

Highlights:

• Why “Who Not How” is a game changing mindset for growth

• How to spot the “boat and helicopter” moments in your life

• The difference between top down and lateral mentorship

• How volunteering and serving leads to powerful business connections

• Practical tips to deepen conversations and build authentic community

Want to take action right away? Download the free worksheet "Find Your People: A Courageous Connection Guide" here: https://vipelnk.com/8khn78d

Take one step today to connect or reconnect with someone in your world. Want support or to learn more about the Women Taking Action Inner Circle?

Explore the Why Not Today? Movement: www.whynottodaymovement.com

Connect with Leslie at leslie@whynottodaymovement.com

- Facebook - www.facebook.com/groups/womentakingactiongroup

- Instagram - www.instagram.com/whynottodaymovement

- LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/leslie-kane-3825222

- YouTube - www.youtube.com/@whynottodaymovement

📢 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode to inspire others to take their own Why Not Today? moment!

Season 4, Episode 20: Finding Purpose and Hidden Mentors with Debbie Heiser

In this episode, Leslie Kane talks with Deborah Heiser, an applied developmental psychologist and founder of The Mentor Project. Together they explore how courage, mentorship and generativity shape our lives and legacies.

Highlights:

- How The Mentor Project connects world-class mentors with eager mentees

- Why generativity and giving back matter so much in midlife and beyond

- Hidden mentors and the unexpected ways we influence others

- Practical wisdom for anyone ready to launch something new or give back in bigger ways

Debbie is also the author of The Mentorship Edge: Creating Maximum Impact through Lateral and Hierarchical Mentoring. Order your copy here: https://amzn.to/40g5f3H

Want More Clarity, Confidence, and Simplicity in Your Business? Each month, Leslie hosts live workshops designed for solopreneurs who want to cut through the chaos, focus on what matters, and take aligned action. With over 30 years of experience mentoring women, Leslie brings inspiration, strategy, and support through the Why Not Today? Movement.

You are just one brave step away from changing everything.

Have a story of courage? Apply to be a guest at www.whynottodaymovement.com/podcasts. Ready to grow with courage and connection? Listen now and then share this episode with a friend who needs it..

Contact Debbie -

www.mentorproject.org

Deborahheiser@gmail.com

- Instagram - www.instagram.com/Deborah_heisertmp

- LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-heiser-phd/

Explore the Why Not Today? Movement: www.whynottodaymovement.com

Connect with Leslie at leslie@whynottodaymovement.com

- Facebook - www.facebook.com/groups/womentakingactiongroup

- Instagram - www.instagram.com/whynottodaymovement

- LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/leslie-kane-3825222

- YouTube - www.youtube.com/@whynottodaymovement

📢 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode to inspire others to take their own Why Not Today? moment!

Season 4, Episode 19: Trust, Courage and Turning Passion into Profit with KiKi L’Italien

In this episode, Leslie Kane sits down with KiKi L’Italien, entrepreneur, speaker and founder of Association Chat, to explore how passion projects can grow into thriving businesses. KiKi shares honest lessons about starting scared, building trust and navigating the roller coaster of entrepreneurship.

Highlights:

- How Association Chat grew from a hobby on early Twitter to a community and acquired brand

- The real definition of courage and doing it scared

- Why clear intentions and honest conversations create unexpected opportunities

- The importance of community, trust and collaboration in business growth

- KiKi’s biggest lessons and what she wishes she knew when starting out

If you’ve ever wondered if your passion project could become something bigger, this conversation is for you.

Your next step: Start scared, trust your gut and take one small action today. Why not today?

Want More Clarity, Confidence, and Simplicity in Your Business? Each month, Leslie hosts live workshops designed for solopreneurs who want to cut through the chaos, focus on what matters, and take aligned action. With over 30 years of experience mentoring women, Leslie brings inspiration, strategy, and support through the Why Not Today? Movement.

You are just one brave step away from changing everything.

Have a story of courage? Apply to be a guest at www.whynottodaymovement.com/podcasts. If this episode inspired you, share it with a friend and help spread the Why Not Today? message.

Contact Kiki -

www.amplifiedgrowth.net

kiki@amplifiedgrowth.net

- Facebook- www.facebook.com/thekikilitalien

- Instagram - www.instagram.com/kikilitalien/

- LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/kikilitalien/

Explore the Why Not Today? Movement: www.whynottodaymovement.com

Connect with Leslie at leslie@whynottodaymovement.com

- Facebook - www.facebook.com/groups/womentakingactiongroup

- Instagram - www.instagram.com/whynottodaymovement

- LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/leslie-kane-3825222

- YouTube - www.youtube.com/@whynottodaymovement

📢 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode to inspire others to take their own Why Not Today? moment!

In this episode, Leslie sits down with Rohit Bhargava, bestselling author, keynote speaker, and founder of The Non Obvious Company and IdeaPress Publishing. They dive into how Rohit’s non obvious thinking perfectly aligns with Leslie’s dad’s legacy of always seeing possibilities others missed and having the courage to act on them.

Together they explore real stories about taking risks, finding unexpected solutions, and creating a business and life that stand out.

Highlights:

- Why Rohit left a steady job to build something of his own

- The mindset behind Option C thinking and why it matters

- The power of building a strong network and staying connected

- How non obvious thinking helps you see what others overlook and stay original

Check out Rohit’s book Non Obvious Thinking on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BQXXL4W5

Want More Clarity, Confidence, and Simplicity in Your Business? Each month, Leslie hosts live workshops designed for solopreneurs who want to cut through the chaos, focus on what matters, and take aligned action.

You are just one brave step away from changing everything.

If this episode inspired you, share it with a friend and help spread the Why Not Today? message.

Contact Rohit -

rohitbhargava.com; nonobvious.com; ideapresspublishing.com

rohit@nonobviouscompany.com

- Facebook- facebook.com/nonobviouscompany

- Instagram - instagram.com/rohitbb, instagram.com/nonobvious/

- LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/rohitbhargava, linkedin.com/company/non-obvious-company/

Explore the Why Not Today? Movement: www.whynottodaymovement.com

Connect with Leslie at leslie@whynottodaymovement.com

- Facebook - hww.facebook.com/groups/womentakingactiongroup

- Instagram - www.instagram.com/whynottodaymovement

- LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/leslie-kane-3825222

- YouTube - www.youtube.com/@whynottodaymovement

📢 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode to inspire others to take their own Why Not Today? moment!