From Invisible to Unstoppable: How My Podcast Amplifies Women in Leadership

By Darine BenAmara

When I first pressed “record” on STANDOUT From The Crowd, I didn’t set out to simply start another podcast—I set out to create a platform that would amplify the voices of women leaders, especially women 35+, who too often go unseen in the professional world. Born during the height of COVID-19, when the shift to virtual work made it even harder for women to gain visibility, the show became a space to share candid conversations, real leadership lessons, and actionable strategies for career growth, confidence, wellness, and personal branding.

What started as my personal mission to stand out and help others do the same has grown into a global conversation about redefining success, protecting wellbeing, and leading with authenticity.

Why I Started the Podcast

The idea was born during one of the most challenging and transformative moments in our recent history: COVID-19.

Almost overnight, our professional lives moved behind screens. And while this shift was difficult for everyone, it had a particular and often invisible impact on women in leadership. In virtual spaces, it became even harder to be heard, to be seen, and to be recognized for contributions. Careers stalled, opportunities diminished, and women—already underrepresented in leadership—faced new hurdles in advancing or even maintaining their visibility.

I saw talented, driven women doing outstanding work but going unnoticed in Zoom meetings, passed over for projects, and struggling to find ways to stand out in a crowded online space. At the same time, I saw women pushing themselves to exhaustion—sacrificing sleep, health, and joy—in an attempt to prove their value.

And I thought: If they can’t see us, how can they know our worth?

But also: If we burn out trying to be seen, what’s the point?

That’s when the seed for STANDOUT From The Crowd was planted. I wanted to create a leadership podcast where women’s voices could not only be heard but amplified—where their experiences, insights, and wellness were treated as essential to leadership, not an afterthought.

A Rocky Start and a Necessary Pivot

Like many new podcasters, I faced a challenge early on: I knew exactly who I wanted to interview—ambitious women leaders making an impact—but I didn’t know where to find them. At the time, LinkedIn wasn’t giving me the access I needed, and I didn’t yet have a network to tap into.

So, in the beginning, I interviewed everyone—men, women, leaders in all industries—anyone whose story I felt could inspire my audience. It was a way to keep episodes consistent and build momentum. And it worked: I built a habit of showing up every week, learning the ropes of interviewing, production, and audience engagement.

But I also noticed something: the more I strayed from my original intention, the more I felt the pull to realign. That’s okay—it was part of the process. Eventually, I found ways to reach my target audience of women 35+, and the show is now stronger, more focused, and more impactful because of it.

Lessons From the Journey

If podcasting has taught me anything, it’s that clarity beats perfection. My first episodes weren’t flawless. But listeners don’t come for polish—they come for connection, authenticity, and value.

Another big lesson: consistency is credibility. Showing up week after week has built trust with my audience. In podcasting—as in leadership—your reliability speaks volumes.

Finally, I learned that a podcast works best as part of an ecosystem for leadership and wellness. The conversations we have on the show live on in my newsletter, on social media, and in my book STANDOUT From The Crowd. Each piece amplifies the others, creating a community centered on visibility, wellbeing, and sustainable success.

Should You Start a Podcast?

If you have something to say that matters to you and could help someone else—yes.

But if you’re looking for instant results or a shortcut to influence—probably not.

Podcasting is a long game. It takes commitment, curiosity, and the ability to keep going when the metrics aren’t instantly thrilling. My advice? Start with your “why” and your listener in mind. Don’t chase trends—create conversations that align with your values, expertise, and audience needs.

Spotlight on the Show

STANDOUT From The Crowd explores leadership, mindset, and wellness for women through the voices of remarkable leaders. It’s a space for candid conversations and practical takeaways—so listeners can redefine success on their own terms, without sacrificing their health or happiness.

Our listeners are active, ambitious women—many in their 30s and 40s—who are leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals. They want to grow without losing themselves in the process.

You can find STANDOUT From The Crowd on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and at thestandoutpodcast.com

Podcasting has become one of the most rewarding parts of my work—not just for the audience I’ve built, but for the clarity and courage it’s given me. Because here’s the truth: finding your voice is powerful.

But helping others find theirs, while reminding them to protect their wellness? That’s where the real magic happens.

Connect With Darine

www.darine.co

Instagram: darinebenamara

www.linkedin.com/in/darinebenamara