Why Not Today? with Leslie Kane

Valentine’s Day is about loving others. But what about loving yourself?

In this solo episode, Leslie shares a powerful Why Not Today moment and the reminder that sometimes courage looks like saying no. If you have ever said yes out of guilt, fear of missing out, or obligation and felt drained afterward, this episode is for you.

You will learn how to:

• Protect your energy

• Set aligned boundaries

• Stop letting fear run your calendar

• Fill your cup so your yes becomes generous

This week’s challenge...

What if growth did not come from pushing harder but from allowing the right support?

In this episode of Why Not Today?, Leslie is joined by Nichole Curtis for an honest conversation about courage, leadership, and the mindset shifts that make sustainable growth possible. Nichole shares her personal Why Not Today moments, from stepping into a commission only career before feeling ready to making the decision to join the Inner Circle when it was not in her original plan.

Nichole opens up about the real benefits she experienced inside the Inner Circle, including having consistent...

What if networking was not about business cards or selling, but about making people feel seen?

In this solo episode of the Why Not Today podcast, Leslie Kane shares the personal story that shaped her passion for community, connection, and courageous relationships. From her father’s role in founding the Reston Board of Commerce (now Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce) to the lessons he taught about responsibility, integrity, and legacy, Leslie reveals why real networking is not transactional, it is relational.

She explores the concept of mattering and the difference between belonging and truly feeling va...

What if the reason you feel overwhelmed is not a lack of motivation but a lack of structure?

In this solo episode of Why Not Today, Leslie Kane explores the science behind time blocking, focus, and boundaries. She shares real stories, brain based insights, and practical tools like the weekly plan sheet and the six most important things list to help you reclaim your time with clarity and courage.

You will discover why tasks expand to fill available time, how decision fatigue drains your energy, and why structure actually creates more freedom rather than less...

Starting Systems: How to Make Taking Action Easier Today with Leslie Kane

Why does starting feel so hard even when you really care?

In this solo episode of the Why Not Today? podcast, Leslie Kane shares a powerful reframe that shifts how we think about motivation, habits, and growth. Instead of pushing harder or waiting to feel ready, Leslie explains why systems not willpower are what make starting easier.

Through personal stories from more than 30 years in business and personal growth, Leslie introduces the idea of a Bug List. This simple awareness tool...

In this episode of the Why Not Today? Podcast, Leslie sits down with Heather McElrath, founder of Sandbox Communications, to talk about what it really looks like to build a business when you do not feel ready, resourced, or confident yet.

Heather shares her journey from losing her corporate job to juggling multiple roles just to survive, and the powerful mindset shift that allowed her to finally step fully into her business. This is a real and honest conversation about entrepreneurship, self-trust, burnout, and learning to listen to that quiet inner voice that says, “It’s time.”

I...

As we step into 2026, many of us feel pressure to have everything figured out on January 1. In this solo episode of the Why Not Today? podcast, Leslie Kane offers a different invitation, one rooted in clarity, presence, and alignment instead of hustle.

Recorded on New Year’s Eve, Leslie reflects on the power of choosing One Word as a theme for the year rather than setting resolutions that quickly fade. She walks through the Look In, Look Up, Look Out framework, shares how her own word unexpectedly shifted from impact to anchor, and explains why that change ma...

WNT Podcast, S4, EP44 Choosing Wide Open Living with Jen Rowland

In this episode of the Why Not Today? podcast, Leslie sits down with author and counselor Jen Rowland for an honest conversation about courage, calling, and choosing to live wide open.

Jen shares the deeply personal story behind her book Chasing Wide Open and the Why Not Today moment that led her to finally say yes to writing it. From feeling stuck and suffocated to trusting the whispers that invited her into something more, Jen opens up about the messy middle, the healing required...

WNT S4, EP43 - Creating Vision Boards That Actually Work for 2026 with Leslie Kane

Have you ever created a vision board that felt inspiring in the moment but quietly faded into the background as the year went on?

In this solo episode of the Why Not Today? podcast, host Leslie Kane shares a completely different approach to vision boards — one rooted in reflection, emotional awareness, and intentional action rather than random images and wishful thinking. Leslie walks you step-by-step through the process she used to create her 2026 vision board and how you can create one th...

WNT S4, EP42 - Choosing Life: The Journey of Healing, Truth, and Courageous Growth with Amy Thurman

When a traumatic brain injury left Amy Thurman incapacitated for almost a year, she reached a heartbreaking moment where she believed her family would be better off without her. In that moment Amy heard an inner voice that asked a life saving question. What if you do not have to die? What if you choose to fight and live so you can help others with your story? That choice became the turning point that led her out of despair, into...

Finding the Courage to Start: Danny DelVecchio on Reinvention, Resilience, and Owning Your Story

Have you ever felt the nudge to try something new but weren’t sure you had what it takes to leap? In this inspiring conversation, Danny DelVecchio shares what courage looks like in real life. From leaving corporate life, moving states in the same week, rebuilding from scratch, and discovering the power of authentic content, Danny’s story is a reminder that growth begins when we choose our Why Not Today moment.

Episode Highlights

• Danny’s bold leap: leaving his job...

Why Not Today? Podcast - Season 4, Episode 40: The Truth About Starting a Business with Jim Beach

Leslie sits down with entrepreneur, author, and radio host Jim Beach for an honest conversation about the real journey of building a business. Jim shares how early rejection led him toward entrepreneurship, the highs and lows he faced, and the lessons that shaped his career.

Together, they explore why taking action matters more than waiting for passion, how copying proven ideas can be a strategic advantage, and why many introverts thrive in business. Jim also opens up about the...

Why Not Today? Podcast - Season 4, Episode 39: A Few Kind Words Changed Everything with Tracey Gates

Tracey Gates joins me to share the simple but powerful moment that sparked her yearlong journey of writing one handwritten appreciation letter every day. What started as a small act of kindness became a practice that restored her energy, deepened her relationships, and eventually inspired her book The Power of a Few Kind Words. Tracey’s story reminds us that courage often begins quietly and grows through small intentional steps.

Together we talk about vulnerability, purpose, creativity, and the ri...

Why Not Today? Podcast - Season 4, Episode 38: Courage, Career Pivots, and Saying Yes with Rich Salon

Rich Salon joins Leslie to share his inspiring journey from corporate HR leader to career coach, business matchmaker, author, and now an aspiring wish granter for adults with terminal illness. His story is filled with powerful Why Not Today moments that remind us to stop waiting for the perfect time and take the next brave step toward a more fulfilling life and career.

Episode Highlights

• How Rich became the only career coach serving job seekers, consultants, and bu...

Why Not Today? Podcast - Season 4, Episode 37: Leslie on the Why Not Today Journey: From One Courageous Step to Providing a Space for Entrepreneurs through the Inner Circle

In this episode of the Why Not Today Podcast, host and founder Leslie Kane opens up about her journey from taking one courageous step to building a community where entrepreneurs can grow together. What began as a spontaneous idea on a walk around the lake became a podcast that celebrates courage, connection, and the willingness to take action even when you are not sure what comes next.

...

Why Not Today? Podcast - Season 4, Episode 36: Fight Fear with Failure: Finding Courage in the Messy Middle with Janet Counts

In this episode of the Why Not Today? podcast, host Leslie Kane sits down with entrepreneur and community advocate Janet Counts for a real conversation about courage, connection, and rebuilding from chaos. Janet shares her personal journey from the IT world to small business ownership, navigating the ups and downs of running a family business, and rediscovering her passion for helping women in trades and local business.

Together, Leslie and Janet talk about what it...

Why Not Today? Podcast - Building the Life is Good Brand with Roy Heffernan

In this inspiring conversation, Leslie Kane sits down with Roy Heffernan, retired Chief Operating Optimist and partner at Life is Good. Roy shares the story behind one of America’s most beloved lifestyle brands and how a simple mission, to spread the power of optimism, became a movement that impacts millions.

Together, Leslie and Roy explore how optimism, structure, and purpose can transform both business and life. Roy also shares his journey from cable television executive to helping scale Life is Go...

Why Not Today? Podcast - Season 4, Episode 34: The Power of Community with Leslie Kane

In this solo episode, host Leslie Kane dives into one of her favorite topics, community, and why it’s more vital than ever in a world that often feels disconnected. Leslie shares research, personal stories, and practical ways to build real, lasting connections that support your courage and growth.

She explores how community shapes our health, happiness, and success, and reminds listeners that courage doesn’t always come from within—sometimes it’s borrowed from those around us.

Highlights:

• W...

Why Not Today? Podcast - Season 4, Episode 33: Betting on Yourself and Building with Courage with Michael Rivero

In this episode of the Why Not Today? podcast, host Leslie Kane talks with Michael Rivero, a purpose-driven marketer, entrepreneur, and founder of TPOS.ai. Michael shares how his journey from sneaker collector to successful business owner taught him to take bold steps, trust himself, and keep moving forward even when things get messy.

This inspiring conversation explores what it looks like to truly bet on yourself, navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurship, and stay grounded in...

Why Not Today? Podcast - Season 4, Episode 32: Standing in Your Worth with Marissa Levin

In this episode of the Why Not Today? Podcast, Leslie welcomes back Marissa Levin for an inspiring conversation on courage, transformation, and what it means to stand fully in your worth. Marissa shares her recent journey of stepping into a corporate leadership role after decades of entrepreneurship, the lessons she’s learned along the way, and the importance of creating psychological safety in every space she leads.

What You’ll Hear:

- How she transitioned from consultant to CHRO and...

Why Not Today? Podcast - Season 4, Episode 31: Clarity, Courage, and the Changing World of Sales with Brian Shea

In this episode of the Why Not Today? Podcast, Leslie Kane talks with Brian Shea, founder of Lucrum Partners and CEO of Lemonade Global. Brian shares his journey from launching XM Satellite Radio to building businesses that help others scale with clarity and courage. They dive into how the sales landscape has shifted since COVID, the importance of authentic connections, and what courage looks like when stepping into entrepreneurship.

What You’ll Hear

- Lessons le...

Why Not Today? Podcast - Season 4, Episode 30: Living with Courage and Purpose After a Near-Death Experience with Jacob Cooper

In this episode of the Why Not Today? Podcast, Leslie Kane sits down with Jacob Cooper, LCSW, to explore how a childhood near-death experience shaped his life’s mission. Jacob shares how that moment of profound awareness set him on a path to inspire others to live with courage, authenticity, and purpose.

What You’ll Hear:

- Jacob’s story of his near-death experience at age three and how it transformed his perspective on life<...

Why Not Today? Podcast - Season 4, Episode 29: Building Community and Living with Courage with Karen Cleveland

In this episode of the Why Not Today? Podcast, host Leslie Kane is joined by returning guest Karen Cleveland, leadership coach, trainer, and longtime community builder. Karen opens up about her journey in leadership, her belief in the power of community, and how living with intention can change the course of both business and life.

What You’ll Hear:

• Why community and culture are at the center of true leadership

• Lessons from Karen’s experience leading...

Why Not Today? Podcast - Season 4, Episode 28 – Systems Are My Superpower with Leslie

In this solo episode, Leslie explores one of her greatest strengths, building systems. She shares why systems are the secret to staying consistent and why, as James Clear reminds us in Atomic Habits, “You do not rise to the level of your goals, you fall to the level of your systems.” Leslie also walks through some of her favorite systems that she uses every day in business and life.

Highlights

- Systems create stability – They keep you moving forward when motivati...

Why Not Today? Podcast - Season 4, Episode 27: Courage, Entrepreneurship, and a Runaway Peacock with Brian Tinsman

What does it really take to step out of the corporate world and build something of your own? In this episode of the Why Not Today? Podcast, Leslie talks with Brian Tinsman, founder of Pounce Solutions, about the twists, turns, and bold choices that shaped his journey into entrepreneurship.

Brian’s story is full of surprises including a career with the Washington Redskins, two heart surgeries that changed his perspective, launching a business during the uncertainty of 2020, and even ho...

Why Not Today? Podcast - Season 4, Episode 26: The Power of Community in Entrepreneurship with Leslie

In this solo episode of the Why Not Today? Podcast, Leslie Kane, Courage Coach and founder of the Why Not Today Movement, shares the truth about entrepreneurship that often goes unspoken, it can feel lonely. Drawing from personal experience and the stories of women entrepreneurs at every stage, Leslie explores the magic of community, the importance of connection, and how accountability and celebration fuel courage and momentum.

Highlights from this episode

• Why entrepreneurship often feels lonely and what to...

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.

...

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 quitti...

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 du...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

Season 4, Episode 17: Do the Next New Thing with Pam Lamp

In this inspiring episode, Leslie Kane talks with author Pam Lamp about courage, creativity, and discovering purpose in a new season of life. Pam shares her story of moving to a new city at age 57, how a simple idea led to a powerful transformation, and what it really takes to write and release a book later in life. Her book Do the Next New Thing is a call to action for anyone feeling stuck or searching for what’s next.

Pam and Leslie explore:

...

The Why Not Today? Podcast - Season 4 Episode 16, The Business of Connection: Courage, Community, and Collaboration with Robyn McClure

In this heartfelt and fun conversation, Leslie welcomes long-time friend and business collaborator Robyn McClure, also known as “Fun Robyn.” From launching community events together to navigating business through the pandemic, Robyn shares candid stories of courage, entrepreneurship, and the power of staying connected.

With a background in franchising and a love for hospitality and community-building, Robyn opens up about her decision to open Pinot’s Palette, the challenges of owning a brick-and-mortar business, and how her pa...

Season 4 Episode 15: Leslie Kane - Why Not Today and How to FUND It

In this solo episode, Leslie shares the heart behind the Why Not Today message and the legacy of her father, Patrick Kane, who inspired the belief that it’s never too late to start. She introduces a powerful shift in the podcast and her coaching work, centered on a new framework called FUND: Finances, Unique Proposition, Networking, and Discipline.

You’ll hear how the podcast is evolving from inspiration to action with solo trainings and guest interviews that focus on what it real...

The Why Not Today? Podcast - Season 4 Episode 14, Powerful Players, Courageous Conversations, and Growing Together with Freddi Donner

In this episode of the Why Not Today? podcast, Leslie Kane welcomes back executive and leadership coach Freddi Donner for a deep and honest conversation about entrepreneurship, courage, and the power of surrounding yourself with others on a similar journey.

Freddi opens up about the real experiences of owning a business, including the challenges of failure, the need for focus, and the importance of staying connected with others who understand the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. Whether...

Season 4 Episode 13: Leslie Kane - Start Before You're Ready: Take Action Even When You're Not Sure

Do you have a business idea but feel nervous to start? Maybe you’ve already started something but feel stuck or unsure what to do next. In this episode, Leslie Kane shares why you don’t need to feel ready to begin. You just need to take one small step.

This episode is also the start of a new version of the Why Not Today? podcast. From now on, you’ll hear two kinds of episodes:

1. Solo lesson...

In this inspiring episode, Leslie is joined by Aprelle Duany, founder of AI Equity Ventures, a company focused on making AI more accessible, inclusive, and empowering, especially for women and underrepresented communities. Aprelle shares her journey from engineering and international work to becoming a sought-after voice in the world of AI and innovation.

She opens up about her Why Not Today moments, how the pandemic prompted deep self-reflection and reinvention, and how she helps others turn their ideas into action using technology. Leslie and Aprelle also explore how AI can be a powerful tool for productivity, creativity...