Today we’d like to introduce you to Linda Ballesteros.
Linda, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
After 30+ years in banking, I left corporate America in 2004 to pursue entrepreneurship. I didn’t know much about being an entrepreneur so I was told that I needed to “network”. I wasn’t sure that meant since I had always had a job. So I created Wine, Women and Wealth, a business women’s organization to learn and connect. It grew to over 400 members in a year and later merged with a national group. Many of those women are still dear friends today.
Since then, I’ve authored and coauthored several books and spoken to countless professional groups about the power of networking and referral marketing. In 2008, I was invited to host an internet radio show, what we now call a podcast. I resisted for months, unsure why anyone would want to listen to me. I didn’t feel special or particularly skilled.
Then it clicked: as the host, my job was to find fascinating guests and ask meaningful questions. That I could do. I dove in and discovered something I absolutely love. I’ve interviewed people from all walks of life, around the world. I’ve been told I’m a great host, but I believe my true gift is curiosity. I genuinely care about people, their stories, and their passions.
In 2016, I lost my husband to cancer, a moment that shattered my world and forced me to ask myself some hard questions:
Who am I now?
Where do I go from here?
How do I do this on my own?
In the midst of grief, I was introduced to the world of franchising. I became a Certified Franchise Consultant and began learning everything I could about this business model. That led me to launch the podcast All Things Franchising, where for nearly five years I interviewed visionary leaders who were helping others tap into proven systems to build successful businesses through franchising. Many of these entrepreneurs created legacies they never thought possible—legacies that extended far beyond what a corporate job could offer. That podcast became a platform for hope, reinvention, and possibility—not just for my guests, but for me as well.
Today, I create and lead workshops that blend spiritual principles with practical tools, helping people release limiting beliefs and step into their divine design. I also host a podcast for a company that empowers aspiring entrepreneurs—a full-circle moment that allows me to support others as they take their own leap. Whether I’m leading a workshop or interviewing someone with a powerful story, my mission is the same – to help people reconnect with their purpose and their passion by sharing their stories.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
This journey hasn’t been easy. Losing my husband in 2016 turned my world upside down forcing me to navigate life as a widow and create new dreams. Grief is the most complex emotion and it colors every decision. This was a season of self-doubt, reinvention, quiet determination and discovery faith I never knew I had.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’m a speaker, author, podcast host, and transformational coach who helps individuals and entrepreneurs shift their mindset, embrace their purpose, and build lives and businesses aligned with their soul’s design.
I specialize in blending spiritual principles with practical tools whether through workshops, coaching, or podcasting. My focus includes mindset work, networking strategy, and entrepreneurial empowerment.
I’m known for creating safe, empowering spaces where people feel seen, heard, and inspired to grow. From my early days leading Wine, Women and Wealth to hosting podcasts that spotlight transformation, I’m recognized for my warmth, curiosity, and ability to ask the questions that unlock deeper truths.
I’m most proud of my ability to reinvent myself after personal loss and continue showing up with purpose. I’m also proud of the lasting communities I’ve built and the lives I’ve helped transform through connection and coaching.
I bring a unique blend of corporate experience, entrepreneurial grit, and spiritual insight. I don’t just teach…I walk the path. My strength lies in my curiosity, my compassion, and my ability to weave together business strategy with soul-centered growth. I meet people where they are and help them rise.
So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?
There are several ways to connect and co-create with me:
Attend one of my workshops or events
I am always open to collaboration conversations
Ask about my coaching or consulting
Let’s talk about possible podcast collaborations
I still do some speaking engagements
Pricing:
- Workshop pricing varies
- Coaching packages are being created at this moment
- Speaking engagements vary
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linda-ballesteros.com/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/linda.j.ballesteros.1/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindaballesteros/
