Smart, Driven, Women

Rooted in Trust, Driven by Goals | with Soumya Tulloss, Vice President

Soumya Tulloss, Senior Vice President of Agent Sales at Zillow, shares what it really takes to lead with intention, set bold goals, and evolve through every stage of your career.
From her early days in finance to leading teams across tech and real estate, Soumya reflects on what she's learned about high standards, self-awareness, and creating clarity amidst chaos. She opens up about balancing motherhood with executive leadership, building trust through action, and her go-to mindset shift: “Curious, not furious.” 
Whether you’re navigating leadership, career transitions, or personal growth, Soumya offers real, grounded insights that will challenge and inspire you.
Connect with Soumya Tulloss on Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/sdsrinagesh/
 

Purpose, Leadership, and Running for Office | with Juslyn Manalo, Councilwoman

Juslyn Manalo (community advocate, public servant, and the first Filipina elected to the Daly City Council) shares how small acts of purpose can spark lifelong leadership. From fighting for Filipino WWII veterans to stepping into city hall, Juslyn reflects on the values that shaped her, how she overcame self-doubt, and why putting your dreams into the universe is more powerful than you think. 
Whether you're considering public service, building your advocacy voice, or navigating your own leadership path, this episode will remind you: you are enough and your voice matters.
Connect With Juslyn Manalo: 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juslynmanalo/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juslynmanalo/
 

Taking the Leap for Your Successful Business | with Patrice Cleary, Chef and Entrepreneur

Patrice Cleary, owner of Purple Patch and Joia Burger, shares how she walked away from a traditional career to build two of D.C.’s most celebrated restaurants. She proves that success is betting on yourself and making it happen. 
If you’re on the edge of taking your own leap, this episode will give you the insight, confidence, and push to go for it.
Connect with Patrice:https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrice-cleary-b3221b176/

Leading, Not Just Following: Insights from a State Delegate | with Kriselda Valderrama, State Delegate

Kriselda Valderrama, Representative in District 26 in the Maryland House of Delegates, joins Smart, Driven Women to discuss her path to leadership that required much strength and resiliency. As a working mother and legislator, Kris also shares the importance of support systems in managing both professional ambitions and family responsibilities.
If you want to learn how to remain steadfast and focused on what’s most important to you in the midst of your business and life, then this episode is for you!
Connect with Kriselda:https://www.linkedin.com/in/kriselda-valderrama-lobo-1922208/
 

Excelling in Negotiation and Leadership in a Male-Dominated Industry | with Jacqueline Post Ladha

Jacqueline Post Ladha, an accomplished attorney and real estate expert, shares her insights on breaking barriers, advocating for housing affordability, and leading with impact.
She dives into the power of preparation in high-stakes negotiations, and the importance of intuition in decision-making. She also discusses how women can assert themselves in male-dominated spaces without compromising their authenticity. As a bonus, we also explore how the right mindset and support system can shape career success. 
If you want to show up with more confidence in male-dominated spaces, this episode is for you.
Connect with Jacqueline: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ladhaj/
 

A Lawyer’s Path to Leading a Title Company | with Evelyn Miller

Evelyn Miller, Partner at Smart Settlements (a premier Title Company), discusses navigating career pivots and balancing ambition with joy. Evelyn shares her journey from an aspiring civil rights lawyer to a thriving entrepreneur in real estate. 
She offers insights on goal setting, perseverance, and finding joy even in the most daunting challenges. 
If you want to learn more about embracing some of life's unexpected challenges than this episode is for you. 
To Connect with Evelyn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evelyn-miller-4230aa93/

From Firstborn to Chief Marketing Officer | with Lynn Pina, CMO

Lynn Pina, Chief Marketing Officer of Geo Blue, dives into the unique challenges and strengths that come with being a firstborn, raising a family, and leading as a CMO. 
Packed with insights on resilience, mentorship, and finding the courage to let go, this episode is a must-listen for women at any stage of their journey.
To donate to Girls Inc. DC, click here and put Lynn Pina in the comments field when you donate: https://www.girlsincdc.org/donate
To donate to the National Kidney Foundation, click here: https://www.kidney.org/
To connect with Lynn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynnpina/

Who are Smart, Driven, Women? | with Laura Jennings

Welcome to Smart, Driven Women, where we explore how impactful women navigate the intersections of leadership, personal growth, and life transitions. Hosted by Rona Jobe, CEO of LVL-Up Strategies, this podcast features candid conversations with women leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators who share the lessons learned from their evolving journeys. Whether you're just starting out, facing a career pivot, or seeking new ways to thrive, this podcast delivers actionable insights and inspiring stories that empower you to embrace growth, resilience, and progress.
In the first episode, Rona sits down with Laura Jennings, Chief Strategy Officer of LVL-Up Strategies, to discuss the importance of adaptability, the evolving nature of ambition, and how women integrate lessons from every part of their lives into success at work and beyond. This season is dedicated to helping women find balance, build resilience, and define success on their own terms.
 
Connect with Laura: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-jennings-pmp-53963b67/