Grateful connections Podcast
What Gratitude Built
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Hosted by Malinda — a former corporate sales professional turned founder of the Grateful Connections community — this podcast is where inspiring women entrepreneurs, coaches, and creatives open up about their real business journeys.
Together, we explore the lessons they’ve learned, the strategies that have worked, and the gratitude that’s shaped their path. These are honest conversations about building a business with intention, heart, and resilience.
You’ll walk away with fresh perspectives, practical strategies you can actually use, and the encouragement to keep going — no matter where you are in your business journey.
Because when gratitude leads the way, business becomes more intentional, connected, and fulfilling.
What Gratitude Built
Where women in business share the gratitude behind their growth

Episode 5: Empowering Women Through Financial Literacy with Dr. Barb Provost of Purse Strings
In this empowering conversation, Malinda sits down with Dr. Barb Provost, founder of Purse Strings and a PhD in Adult Learning, to unpack why women are too often left out of financial education and how to change that. Dr. Barb shares her unconventional path from bank teller to educator to founder, the origin story of Purse Strings, and how her boutique directory vets financial professionals who truly serve women. You’ll hear practical guidance on money mindset, setting solid business foundations, what to avoid (hello, pricey tactics that don’t convert), and why testing and pivoting matter. The episode also previews Malinda and Barb’s upcoming hands-on workshop for women business owners and closes with Dr. Barb’s “magic wand” wish for every entrepreneur: trusted, affordable guidance when decisions get tough, plus one non-negotiable: know your numbers.

Episode 4: Gratitude in Action: How Irv’s Luggage Powers Luggage for Freedom with Renee Silverman
In this episode of Grateful Connections: What Gratitude Built, I sit down with Renee Silverman, co-owner of Irv’s Luggage and director of the nonprofit Luggage for Freedom. Renee shares the inspiring story of carrying forward her father’s family business while reimagining what brick-and-mortar retail can be in the age of Amazon. We talk about her passion for creating community through Irv’s Luggage, the hands-on service that sets her store apart, and the growth of Luggage for Freedom- a program that provides women leaving domestic violence shelters with dignity, essentials, and a fresh start. From running a second-generation business to building a nonprofit that’s changing lives, Renee’s journey is one of resilience, confidence, and heart.

Episode 3: Authenticity, Inclusion, and Gratitude in Business with Eloiza Domingo
In this episode, Malinda interviews Eloiza Domingo, a seasoned expert in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Eloiza shares her inspiring journey from being the daughter of immigrants to becoming a diversity leader across various sectors, including healthcare and corporate environments. The discussion delves into the challenges she faced as a woman of color, her impactful achievements, and the importance of authenticity in personal branding. Eloiza also offers valuable advice for small business owners on how to incorporate diversity into their practices and reflects on the significance of mentorship and support in her journey. The conversation concludes with insights on the future of her consulting work and the importance of empowering women in business.

Episode 2: From Awakening to Alignment: Daphne Paras' Gratitude and Entrepreneurial Journey
In this episode, Malinda interviews Daphne Paras, a multifaceted entrepreneur and spiritual teacher. They discuss Daphne's journey of spiritual awakening, her shift in perspective on success, and the importance of gratitude in both personal and business life. Daphne shares insights on leadership, finding alignment in work, and the significance of community in entrepreneurship. The conversation emphasizes the need for women to pursue their passions and the tools necessary for success in business.

Episode 1: The Power of Gratitude and Mindset in Business with Kristin Crockett
In this engaging conversation, Malinda Leonard interviews her business coach, Kristin Crockett, about her journey to becoming a coach and the philosophy behind her business, Courageous Destiny. They discuss the importance of mindset over strategy, the role of gratitude in business, and practical tools for overcoming overwhelm. Kristin shares valuable resources, including books on gratitude, and emphasizes the significance of living with intention. The conversation also touches on common mindset roadblocks faced by women entrepreneurs and the importance of investing in coaching for personal and professional growth