I Want Her Shoes Podcast

Crafting Confidence Through Custom Style with Genavieve Paige Villar

Her journey is one of grit and grace — from navigating the challenges of COVID to balancing entrepreneurship and motherhood, Genavieve has turned every obstacle into an opportunity for reinvention. Today, she continues to design with purpose, helping women feel confident, beautiful, and seen through one-of-a-kind pieces that tell their story.

Anna and Genavieve dive deep into what it takes to build a business from the ground up, the power of designing with intention, and the art of creating a life that fits you — beautifully.

👠 Key Tak...

After decades advising over 200 founders and executives, Ana noticed a pattern: leaders bring structure, strategy, and purpose to their businesses — but rarely to their personal lives. Through her work with FiftyPages, she helps high-achieving women explore what’s next, define what matters now, and move forward with the same clarity they’ve used to build companies — this time, to build lives.

Her second venture, Sankalpa Life, is a private community for women in midlife who are navigating transition. Through retreats, workshops, and shared experiences, Ana creates space for reflection, renewal, and reconnection — helping women lead their next chapter wi...

With a background that spans clinical psychology, global coaching, and venture advisory, Dr. B is redefining what high performance looks like in the startup and tech ecosystem. At Techstars, All Raise, and beyond, she has coached founders, executives, and investors through moments of peak pressure and personal transition — always bringing strategy, science, and soul to the table.

At CoachEra®, she leads the development of evidence-based coaching programs that help leaders align their values with their goals, navigate high-stakes environments, and avoid burnout before it starts. Her retreats and programs are more than interventions — they are invitations for refle...

In this high-impact episode of I Want Her Shoes Podcast, host Anna Anisin sits down with the brilliant and bold Divya Gugnani — serial entrepreneur, investor, beauty industry disruptor, and the woman behind multiple exits and iconic brands.

Divya’s story is the ultimate blend of strategy, style, and stamina. From starting her career in investment banking at Goldman Sachs to founding and scaling Send the Trend (acquired by QVC) and Wander Beauty (acquired by Nameless CPG), she’s built an empire — and she’s not done yet.

Today, she leads Concept to Co, where she invests in...

In this high-impact episode of I Want Her Shoes Podcast, host Anna Anisin sits down with the brilliant and bold Divya Gugnani — serial entrepreneur, investor, beauty industry disruptor, and the woman behind multiple exits and iconic brands.

Divya’s story is the ultimate blend of strategy, style, and stamina. From starting her career in investment banking at Goldman Sachs to founding and scaling Send the Trend (acquired by QVC) and Wander Beauty (acquired by Nameless CPG), she’s built an empire — and she’s not done yet.

Today, she leads Concept to Co, where she invests in...

In this bold new episode of the I Want Her Shoes podcast, host Anna Anisin introduces a brand-new monthly segment: Fashion Crimes with Ella — a space to unpack the drama, emotion, and cultural pulse behind fashion’s biggest moments. This month, we’re diving straight into Paris Fashion Week, where Chanel’s latest collection left Ella in literal tears — and not in a good way. From emotionally charged runways to the ever-evolving identity of iconic fashion houses, Anna and Ella dissect what worked, what didn’t, and what it means when style stops resonating. But it’s not all critique. It’s about why...

In this empowering episode of the I Want Her Shoes podcast, host Anna Anisin sits down with Martica Mirabal, a true icon in the luxury retail world with over 23 years of experience at top fashion houses including Gucci, Prada, Saint Laurent, and Valentino. From Sales Associate to Regional Director, Martica has lived every chapter of the retail journey — and now, through her consultancy LuxeRRC, she’s helping others write their own success stories. Martica’s passion lies not just in growing brands, but in growing people: building high-performing teams, mentoring women in business, and turning fashion into a force for connec...

In this heartfelt and powerful episode of I Want Her Shoes Podcast, host Anna Anisin sits down with Rhapsodi Pierre-Jacques — certified career transition coach, leadership development consultant, and founder of HerKind, a curated membership community for high-achieving Black women seeking deeper connection in fast-paced cities. With a background in organizational psychology and over 15 years of experience across corporate giants, startups, and coaching programs, Rhapsodi has seen the behind-the-scenes pressures women of color face in spaces not designed for their success. Now, she’s creating new ones — through HerKind’s elegant, high-touch events and transformative coaching programs, designed to help women unlock t...

In this joyful and intimate episode of I Want Her Shoes Podcast, host Anna Anisin sits down with best friends Samantha and Steven — a dynamic duo who bring the magic of friendship and fashion to life. Steven isn’t just Samantha’s stylist — he’s her confidant, her mirror, and her partner in bold self-expression. Together, they open up about what it’s really like to work with a stylist, how it reshapes confidence from the inside out, and why personal style is so much more than just what you wear. With a background in creative storytelling and an eye for detail...

In this vibrant episode of I Want Her Shoes Podcast, host Anna Anisin sits down with Rebecca Fishman Lipsey — changemaker, equity champion, and President & CEO of The Miami Foundation — to explore what it takes to lead with purpose in one of the world’s most dynamic cities. From classrooms to boardrooms, Rebecca’s career has been a masterclass in civic impact. Under her leadership, The Miami Foundation has become a philanthropic force — investing nearly $1 billion in Miami’s most pressing challenges, activating nearly 1,000 family and corporate foundations, and creating Give Miami Day, a community-wide movement that’s raised $190 million+ in just a few yea...

In this powerful episode of I Want Her Shoes Podcast, host Anna Anisin sits down with Kerstin Recker Alexandre — global strategist, brand builder, and CEO & Co-Founder of Peli Health, a digital platform revolutionizing pelvic and sexual wellness for women. With a career spanning AI, media, nonprofit work, and health tech, Kerstin has always led with fearless curiosity and a commitment to impact. Now, she’s channeling that energy into Peli — a platform designed to become the digital front door for preventive women’s care in a space long overlooked. From pitch decks to pelvic health summits, her story is one of radic...

In this powerful episode of I Want Her Shoes Podcast, host Anna Anisin sits down with Sylvia Sulkes — global brand leader, luxury travel curator, and founder of Sol Kiss Escapes, a boutique travel design studio redefining what it means to get away. After 20 years in global marketing and hospitality, Sylvia traded hustle for healing — and began curating soulful escapes for high-achieving women seeking more than just relaxation. With over 60 countries stamped in her passport, she now designs journeys that awaken joy, spark reconnection, and remind women who they are — beyond the noise. From solo retreats to sisterhood-filled group getaways, Sylvia’s work i...

In this powerful episode of I Want Her Shoes Podcast, host Anna Anisin sits down with Kelly Dolyniuk — transformational coach, strategic advisor, speaker, and former executive at Microsoft and LinkedIn. After decades building global teams and culture at the highest levels of tech, Kelly made the bold decision to step away from the grind and step into deeper alignment — creating a practice that helps high-achieving women lead with clarity, energy, and soul. Today, she’s guiding leaders through reinvention — from burnout to balance — by blending neuroscience, energy regulation, and purpose-driven strategy. She’s also a board member, arts advocate, and a mom of two...

In this powerful episode of I Want Her Shoes Podcast, host Anna Anisin sits down with Dr. Mindy DeSeta — Doctor of Human Sexuality, board-certified sex therapist, licensed mental health counselor, and founder of Insight Counseling Center Miami. Dr. Mindy’s work is all about rewriting the narrative around sexual wellness — helping women (and couples) move past shame, disconnection, and outdated scripts to rediscover what intimacy, desire, and confidence look like on their own terms. From clinical sexology and hypnotherapy to her celebrated podcast Melinda in Miami, Dr. Mindy is transforming the way we talk about — and experience — emotional and physical intimacy. ...

In this episode of I Want Her Shoes, host Anna Anisin sits down with the powerhouse behind Miami Mami® — Sandra Njoku. A former corporate tech exec turned maternal wellness advocate, Sandra's story is one of bold reinvention, radical strength, and purpose-led leadership. From securing sensitive data in international banks to securing confidence in postpartum women, Sandra’s path proves that motherhood isn’t a roadblock — it’s a reset button. With a toddler in one arm and a baby on the way, she walked away from the cybersecurity world and built a movement for moms looking to reclaim their bodies and power t...

In this deeply informative episode of the I Want Her Shoes Podcast, host Anna Anisin sits down with Florence Shaffer — global innovation leader, human performance expert, and founder of Becoming, a concierge service that helps people reset their lives at the core. Florence has spent over 20 years building future-forward experiences at the intersection of luxury, tech, and humanity — with career stops at iconic brands like Burberry, Estée Lauder, and Lucasfilm. But it was a stage 4 cancer diagnosis that became her most powerful transformation yet. Rather than fighting the illness, Florence chose to recode her inner world. What followed was a ful...

In this powerful episode of I Want Her Shoes Podcast, host Anna Anisin sits down with Victoria Pelletier — corporate trailblazer, award-winning speaker, author, and unapologetically unstoppable leader. From surviving trauma to becoming a COO at 24, Victoria’s story is one of grit, grace, and reinvention. She’s built an extraordinary career leading major transformations at companies like IBM and American Express — all while breaking glass ceilings and stereotypes along the way. Together, Anna and Victoria dive into what it really takes to lead with authenticity in high-stakes boardrooms, how personal resilience fuels professional success, and why showing up in your own styl...

Nine more bold women share their stories, one pair of heels at a time. In Episode 23 of I Want Her Shoes Podcast, we continue our journey through standout moments from our guests—each one bringing her own brand of brilliance and one very special pair of shoes. These Miami-based leaders, creatives, and changemakers remind us that no two paths are alike, even if the heels are fire. 💬 Guests + Lessons (Episodes 9–16): 💳 Episode 9 – Ella, Forensic Crime Analyst Ella made budgeting feel fabulous and proved that style can be both emotional and strategic. Lesson: A balanced budget can sparkle. 🤝 Episode 11 – Nicole Vasquez, Entrepreneur and Founder at Mo...

Legacy, Leverage & Life Transitions: Brooke Sharpton on Building Wealth with Heart. In this inspiring episode of I Want Her Shoes, host Anna Anisin sits down with Brooke Sharpton—a seasoned financial expert and trusted wealth advocate for entrepreneurs, women in transition, and Black wealth builders across the country. Brooke brings a fresh and deeply personal perspective to private banking, blending expertise with empathy as she supports women, entrepreneurs, and Black wealth creators through their biggest life transitions. She’s not just helping people grow their wealth — she’s helping them grow their confidence, their communities, and their legacy. Together, Brooke and Anna...

From kitchen couture to investment power suits—8 unforgettable women, 8 incredible pairs of shoes. In Episode 21 of I Want Her Shoes Podcast, host Anna Anisin reflects on the first eight guests to grace the mic—seven of them are Miami-based women who brought heart, hustle, and of course, unforgettable footwear. Each woman was asked to bring a pair of shoes with a story—and the results were iconic. 👠 Most Popular Guest Shoe? The Manolo Blahnik Hangisi. Three guests. Three colors. Three unforgettable stories. Melissa Pegus, Ella, and Courtney Spritzer all brought their Hangisis—each one symbolizing confidence, love, and legacy in its own uni...

In this episode of I Want Her Shoes Podcast, we're diving into the glittery, gritty, and gloriously chaotic world of Asha Elias—author, columnist, mother, and reluctant socialite. With her signature wit and unapologetic voice, Asha joins Anna for a raw and fabulous conversation about writing her second book The Namaste Club, navigating motherhood in Miami, and the blurred lines between truth and fiction in her storytelling. From her roots in print journalism to her sex & dating column in Miami New Times, Asha has never been afraid to say the quiet part out loud. We talk identity, reinvention, the pressures of...

In this episode, Anna sits down with Sarah—CPA, cat lover, and community builder—to explore the unexpected paths that numbers can lead us down. From trading New York grit for Miami sunshine to balancing corporate goals with personal fulfillment, Sarah opens up about the moments that shaped her career and the causes that keep her grounded. Whether she’s navigating SEC reporting or volunteering at a local shelter, Sarah proves that finance and heart aren’t mutually exclusive. 👠Key Moments: How a high school elective (and a little rebellion) led Sarah to accounting Why she left NYC for Miami—and how that...

In this powerhouse episode of I Want Her Shoes, host Anna Anisin sits down with Katherine Doble — CEO and founder of INGAGE, a marketing and public affairs firm that helps complex industries like law, finance, government, and higher education find their voice and connect with purpose. With a rare blend of analytical sharpness and personal warmth, Katherine shares how she built a firm that turns fragmented marketing efforts into bold, data-driven strategies — all while leading with integrity, authenticity, and flair. Together, Katherine and Anna dive into the real story behind launching INGAGE, the leadership lessons that came from the hardest mome...

In this strategy-packed episode of I Want Her Shoes, host Anna Anisin sits down with Virginia Laird Rojo, a powerhouse marketing leader who’s helping brands rewrite the playbook for how agencies and internal teams work together — with fewer resources, tighter budgets, and more demand than ever. As brands face rising expectations and limited bandwidth, Virginia steps in with a bold but balanced approach: build ecosystems that actually work. With a sharp eye for structure and a heart for sustainable leadership, she helps teams not just survive — but thrive. Together, Anna and Virginia unpack what it takes to lead in this n...

In this vibrant follow-up to Episode 1 (still the most-downloaded episode to date!), host Anna Anisin welcomes back Chef Nicole Votano — longtime friend, culinary creative, and the original I Want Her Shoes guest — for an unfiltered, fashion-filled conversation that’s equal parts laughter, luxury, and life updates. From outfit changes in a NYC restroom to a private visit at the Louis Vuitton Café, Anna and Nicole reflect on friendship, travel, and the fashion memories they’ve made — including iconic sunglasses, color-coordinated closets, and limited-edition desserts that may or may not belong in a vault. Together, they unpack summer style trends, what Miami Swim...

In this inspiring episode of I Want Her Shoes, host Anna Anisin steps into the world of high finance with Rhonda Singer, Managing Director at J.P. Morgan Private Bank and one of the few women to break through the trading floor ranks in the early days of her career. With nearly three decades of experience in capital markets and wealth management, Rhonda has helped shape the financial futures of some of the country’s most influential families. But what truly sets her apart is her mission: empowering women—especially those navigating financial independence for the first time—with clarity, confid...

On this episode of I Want Her Shoes, host Anna Anisin sits down with the unstoppable Meg Daly, the visionary founder of The Underline — a transformative urban trail and public park reshaping how Miami moves, gathers, and grows. From her roots in marketing and entrepreneurship to building one of Miami’s most impactful civic projects, Meg shares how purpose, resilience, and style fuel her mission. But that’s not all — Meg is also the mastermind behind Sneakers Ball, a one-of-a-kind charity gala where fashion meets function (and flats!). Anna and Meg dive into what it takes to lead with heart, show up...

In this colorful episode of I Want Her Shoes, host Anna Anisin invites you into the world of Diana Contreras — the Peruvian-born, Miami-raised artist whose murals, canvases, and hand-painted shoes burst with color, confidence, and fierce femininity. Known for her signature portraits of strong, whimsical women, Diana’s work blends classical painting with the bold energy of street art. From the streets of Wynwood to galleries in Dubai, she’s painting the world more vibrant — one wall, shoe, and canvas at a time. Together, Diana and Anna explore how fashion, motherhood, and identity fuel the creative process — and why being bold is al...

Welcome back to the "I Want Her Shoes Podcast," where your host Anna, had a chance to step into the vibrant world of digital marketing with Courtney Spritzer, the co-founder and visionary behind Socialfly and Entreprenista Media. Courtney stands at the forefront of innovation and strategy, shaping how brands connect in the digital age. From pioneering Socialfly to penning essential guides on social media strategy and spearheading initiatives that empower women entrepreneurs, her journey is nothing short of inspiring. 👠Key Moments: - From NYU to CEO - How Courtney’s early career in finance pivoted into co-founding the award-winning agency Socia...

Welcome back to the 'I Want Her Shoes' podcast! Today, we’re stepping into the world of strategic networking and human connection with Nicole Vasquez, the Co-Founder of MBD Partners and The Activator Network. Nicole is a master at building authentic, high-impact relationships, training professional advisors, and leading private gatherings that create transformational opportunities for executives and entrepreneurs. In this episode, Nicole shares how style, presence, and intention play a critical role in relationship-building — and why authenticity is the ultimate power move. 👠Key Moments: - Nicole shares how her early life experiences shaped her passion for connecting people and building communi...

In this lively solo episode, Anna takes us along for her first-ever Coachella experience—a true bucket list moment 20 years in the making! From cowboy boots that survived four-mile treks to the surprising "lack of fashion" on festival grounds, Anna gives us the real behind-the-scenes of Coachella style today versus what she expected. She also dishes on her three perfectly curated outfits and shares which performances made her dance all night (shoutout to T-Pain and Charlie XCX!). After the festival fun, Anna dives into major fashion industry news —including the groundbreaking Mytheresa acquisition of YNAP and reflections on how new tari...

Welcome to another episode of "I Want Her Shoes Podcast"! Today, we're excited to introduce Ella Muradyan, a powerhouse in the world of financial compliance. As a certified financial crimes specialist for global banks, Her Ella brings an in-depth understanding of anti-money laundering, fraud, bribery, and corruption. Off the clock, she's a dedicated mom to a 4-year-old aspiring model and is married to a culinary enthusiast. Join us as Ella shares how she balances high-stakes financial responsibilities with her vibrant family life, and how her personal style plays a role in both realms. Get ready to step into Ella's world...

Dive into the glamorous and complex world of luxury retail with Svetlana Gafurova on Episode 6 of "I Want Her Shoes Podcast," where fashion and function converge in insightful conversations. From her early experiences with limited fashion choices in the USSR to her influential role at Bottega Veneta, Svetlana shares her journey through the evolving landscapes of style and sophistication. Discover how her passion for aesthetics led her from homemade garments to leading sales in luxury fashion, and how she views the relationship between luxury service and consumer expectations. 👠 Key Moments: - The transition from necessity-driven to passion-led fashion. - Insights int...

Welcome back to 'I Want Her Shoes Podcast. Today, we’re thrilled to step into the sustainable yet chic world of fashion with Cynthia Lau, the visionary founder behind Casa Lily. This episode unveils how Cynthia’s journey from a fashion-enthused child in diverse cultures to an innovative entrepreneur is reshaping our approach to what we wear. Join us as we dive into how Casa Lily's commitment to sustainability is not just about creating eco-friendly fashion, but about fostering a movement that values transparency, ethical practices, and community engagement. From her early days of crafting unique garments with her mother to h...

EPISODE CREDITS:

Writer and Host: Anna Anisin

Produced, edited, and mixed by the Formulatedby Team

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Welcome back to "I Want Her Shoes Podcast," where style meets substance in every episode. Today, we're thrilled to have Sherrell Dorsey with us, a dynamic force who melds fashion, technology, and sustainability into a powerful narrative that's shaping our future. From her early days in the bustling fashion industry to her current role as the host of TED Tech, Sherrell's journey is nothing short of inspirational. 👠 Key Moments: - Sherrell discusses her transition from the fashion industry to a tech innovator, highlighting how her fashion sense has influenced her professional journey. - Explore Sherrell's insights on the intersections of AI...

Join Amber Gordon as she steps into Anna Anisin’s closet, the creative force behind this influential series to chat about Anna’s personal and professional life. In this episode, we uncover the deep motivations behind the podcast and the balance Anna maintains between entrepreneurship, leadership, and motherhood. This special segment provides a platform for Anna to share her experiences and the strategic insights that have shaped her journey and the podcast. 👠 Key Moments: - Anna shares the personal experiences and aspirations that led to the creation of "I Want Her Shoes Podcast," aiming to intertwine her life lessons with the pod...

Dive into the intricate world of fashion and business strategy on the latest episode of "I Want Her Shoes Podcast." Join us as Melissa Pegus, a leader in investment and strategic advisory, shares how her personal style has evolved alongside her impressive career. From nurturing high-growth industries to guiding emerging tech ventures, Melissa's approach to fashion is as strategic as her business moves. 👠 Key Moments: Melissa shares how her journey from the fashion industry to the investment world has influenced her professional and personal style. Gain insights into how strategic thinking in fashion can mirror and enhance business strategies. Learn abo...

Dive into the transformative world of Fatima Rosa on the latest episode of "I Want Her Shoes Podcast." Discover Fatima's inspiring journey from her global roots in Canada to making a significant local impact in Miami's beauty industry. Join us as she shares how her family's entrepreneurial spirit and her experiences in the corporate world influenced her to pioneer the first blow dry bar in Florida, expanding it into the thriving Face, Brow & Beauty Bar empire. In this episode, Fatima discusses the challenges she faced during her transition from Canada to Miami, the evolution of her business, and how she...

Welcome to the Premiere of "I Want Her Shoes Podcast": Plates and Palettes - The Art of Culinary Fashion with Chef Nicole Votano In our debut episode, we dive into the sensory world of cooking and fashion with Miami-based culinary artist, Chef Nicole Votano. Known for her ability to blend vibrant flavors with equally vibrant styles, Nicole shares how her passion for culinary arts and personal style has influenced her impressive career. Meet Chef Nicole Votano With an 18-year career spanning high-end hotels and restaurants, Nicole has earned acclaim not just for her culinary skills but for her flair in...