Welcome to the final episode of season one! I’m your host, Paige Battcher, and today we’re diving into the Empowerment Effect—the incredible ripple effect that happens when we step into our power, lift each other up, and create meaningful change.
Before we jump in, let’s take a moment to reflect on the journey we’ve taken together this season.
Season One Recap: The Road to Empowerment
This season has been packed with game-changing insights:
- Episode One: We tackled the confidence factor, proving that action—not perfection—fuels confidence. Bold, imperfect action is the key to momentum.
- Episode Two: We explored the energy of money and abundance, learning how our thoughts act like radio signals that tune us into opportunities.
- Episode Three: We broke down lifestyle businesses, emphasizing that business success should be designed around the life you actually want.
- Episode Four: We talked about mindful influence, and how using your voice to stand up for what matters can transform not only your business but the world around you.
And now, as we close out this season, it’s time to shine even brighter and step into a bigger role in creating change.
The Moment to Shine Brighter
We are living in extraordinary times, and the world needs more empowered women willing to take action.
I was reminded of this during the Women’s March in Los Angeles—standing in Pershing Square among 750,000 people, all marching for change. The energy? Electric. The message? When women come together, we create unstoppable momentum.
Imagine what could happen if we harnessed that energy daily—not just in protests, but in boardrooms, businesses, and communities.
The Power of Women’s Empowerment
The data is crystal clear:
- When women are educated and empowered, economies thrive. Research shows that closing the gender gap in education significantly boosts GDP.
- Women reinvest 90% of their income back into their families and communities, compared to 30-40% for men.
- Empowered women create a ripple effect, uplifting everyone around them—regardless of gender.
So, what happens when you step fully into your power? The world shifts.
A Personal Story: Small Actions, Big Impact
At 16 years old, I was nominated to attend a prestigious leadership camp. Walking into a room filled with other smart, ambitious teens? Intimidating. But also, an opportunity.
There, I learned about the measles crisis in Africa. Inspired to help, I returned to my high school and organized a fundraiser, speaking in front of 200 peers. The result? We raised enough money to support an entire school.
That moment taught me that you don’t need to be an expert to make a difference—you just need the courage to act.
And speaking of women who changed history, let’s talk about Mary Ellen Pleasant—a woman who redefined what empowerment looks like.
Mary Ellen Pleasant: A Legacy of Power and Impact
Born in 1812, Mary Ellen Pleasant became a titan of business and a civil rights activist in California—despite living in a time when women, especially Black women, had little to no rights.
She didn’t have a formal education. Instead, she observed, learned, and took strategic action. Arriving in California during the gold rush, she worked as a cook, negotiated a high salary, and listened closely to wealthy miners.
Then? She made smart investments—eventually becoming one of the first female millionaires in America.
But she didn’t stop there.
- She funded anti-slavery campaigns.
- She won a major lawsuit against San Francisco’s segregated trolley system.
- She used her wealth to lift up others, proving that true success is about who you empower along the way.
Meet Eden Bridgeman Sklenar: A Modern-Day Change Maker
Today, I’m thrilled to introduce Eden Bridgeman Sklenar, Chief Marketing Officer of Manna Inc. and founder of The Trifecta Gala & Events.
Eden embodies the empowerment effect—using business as a force for inclusion, charity, and community impact.
Her parents built their legacy on service and giving back, and she saw it as her responsibility to carry that mission forward.
Through Trifecta Events, she has created opportunities for underrepresented communities, proving that business success and social impact can go hand in hand.
The Entrepreneurial Journey: Embracing the Hard Parts
Eden shared some real talk on entrepreneurship:
- Fear doesn’t go away. Her first Trifecta Gala was invite-only. When she opened it up to public ticket sales, the pressure skyrocketed.
- Vulnerability is key. She learned that asking for help and surrounding yourself with the right people makes all the difference.
- Challenges don’t mean stop. They mean adjust, learn, and keep moving forward.
Her biggest lesson? Success isn’t just about money—it’s about meaning.
Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Eden’s advice? Time is your most valuable asset.
- Spend it doing something that brings you joy.
- Dream big, but be ready to put in the work.
- Challenges will come—face them head-on.
The key isn’t avoiding obstacles—it’s knowing that every challenge is shaping you for the next level.
Your Turn: Take Action & Reflect
No matter where you are in your journey, the time to step up is now. Grab a journal and reflect:
- What legacy do I want to leave?
- How can I show up more authentically?
- What bold action can I take today?
- When I go all in, what’s the best that can happen?
Your voice. Your impact. Your moment.
Final Thoughts: The Empowerment Ripple Effect
When you give yourself permission to go all in, you inspire others to do the same. Empowerment is contagious—and the stories of women like Mary Ellen Pleasant and Eden Bridgeman Sklenar prove that when we lift each other up, the world changes.
As we close season one, I want to say thank you. Your commitment to growth and impact is what makes this community so powerful.
Season Two is coming! Visit empoweredboss.com and let us know what topics you want next.
Until then? Keep shining, keep rising, and keep making waves. 🚀
