[01:48] Karen Hall’s Background – Phil introduces Karen’s remarkable journey from childhood entrepreneur to emotional intelligence expert and media leader.

[02:54] Connecting with Phil – Karen shares her excitement about finally joining the show and her connection with Phil’s focus on emotional intelligence.

[03:17] Why Leave Corporate? – Phil asks Karen his signature first question: why she left the security of a corporate job to pursue entrepreneurship.

[04:13] Karen’s Early Entrepreneurial Roots – Karen recounts selling newspapers and chocolates as a child and her immigrant-family drive for self-sufficiency.

[05:30] The Leap to Full-Time Entrepreneur – Karen discusses overcoming intimidation and turning her passion for helping others into a business.

[06:54] Reviving Bankrupt Businesses – Phil inquires about why Karen and her husband chose to purchase and turn around failing companies.

[07:28] Family, Faith, and Risk – Karen recounts uprooting her family to save her in-laws’ business, the economic hardships, and the role of prayer.

[09:34] Taking On More Challenges – Phil asks how Karen felt when her husband suggested buying additional bankrupt businesses. Karen explains her mix of optimism and spiritual reassurance.

[12:15] Would They Do It Again? – Phil checks if Karen and her husband still seek new bankrupt business challenges, and Karen shares her enduring sense of adventure.

[13:47] Discovering Empathy as a Superpower – Phil asks how Karen realized empathy was her gift. Karen shares how feedback from clients and colleagues helped her embrace the “Queen of Empathy” title.

[15:41] Emotional Intelligence and Leadership – Karen discusses overcoming childhood shyness, highly sensitive traits, and the journey to recognizing her emotional intelligence’s leadership value.

[21:19] Investing in Yourself – Phil asks Karen what daily or essential practices help her keep growing; Karen details her gratitude, prayer, mirror work, connection, reading, and service routines.

[25:39] Lifelong Learning and Growth – Phil and Karen reflect on the importance of constant self-education as entrepreneurs and podcasters.

[26:51] Most Impactful Podcast Guest – Karen recounts the powerful story of Rusty Lobishogne, her first podcast guest, and the profound lessons on forgiveness and hope his experience taught her.

[31:26] The Power of Storytelling and Connection – Karen explains how everyone she interviews becomes a friend and how their stories keep her inspired and grounded.

[31:59] Looking 10 Years Ahead – Phil asks Karen to envision her future; she talks about keynote speaking, writing more books, producing events, and expanding her impact through the Los Angeles Tribune.

[33:52] Advice to Her 10-Year-Old Self – Karen shares wisdom for her younger self about not fearing success, embracing leadership, and maintaining hope through challenges.

[35:41] Where to Find Karen Hall – Karen gives listeners details on how to connect with her, join her publications, or become involved with her podcasts and events.

[38:15] Closing Remarks – Phil thanks Karen, wraps up the episode with final reflections, and encourages listeners to invest in themselves.