In Part 2 of The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast with Mara Dorne, the conversation goes beyond business and into the mindset that helped create her success.
Mara opens up about living with anxiety, navigating “mom guilt”, and the personal sacrifices involved in becoming successful. Authenticity has been a major key for Mara, who has learned over time what it takes to thrive without losing yourself. Her transparency and humor will inspire you to embrace your truth and imperfections, and lead with both power and compassion.
Episode Highlights:
00:00 - Introduction
01:22 - Look Good, Feel Good, Do Good
07:07 - Confidence and Insecurity
20:37 - Struggles for Women in Business
22:00 - Fitting In for Success
23:37 - Benefits of Not Fitting In
25:44 - Maturity and Servant Leadership
27:30 - Understanding Ego
33:10 - Advice for Women in Business
37:33 - Managing Anxiety
44:04 - Overcoming Anxiety Strategies
47:50 - Pain vs. Suffering
48:53 - Giving Yourself Grace
50:33 - Recommended Book for Female Managers
54:25 - The Story You Tell Yourself
56:00 - Being Your Authentic Self
57:20 - Deep Discussion Reflection
59:15 - OUTRO
1:00:12 - Disclaimer
Key Takeaways:
1. Progress Creates Purpose Growth — even small — fuels happiness. Stagnation fuels frustration.
2. Grace Over Guilt Working moms and entrepreneurs alike must stop striving for perfection. Give yourself permission to be human.
3. Anxiety Can Be Power Instead of resisting fear, Mara reframes it as heightened awareness — a tool for empathy and performance.
4. Authenticity Wins Success feels better when you stop performing for approval and start living in alignment.
5. Feminine Energy Is Strength Nurturing, empathy, intuition — these aren’t weaknesses. They’re leadership advantages.
6. Boundaries Build Balance Saying “no” with intention creates space for what truly matters — family, health, and peace of mind.
Notable Quotes:
“There is absolute guilt. I’m the mom at the football meet in heels, on the phone, juggling everything. But at some point, you’ve got to give yourself grace.” Mara Dorne
“You’re not going to be everybody’s cup of tea — and that’s okay. Peel back the layer and be who you want to be.” Mara Dorne
“Being a woman is a superpower. It really is a superpower, especially in sales, because men like to talk to women and women like to talk to women.” Mara Dorne
“We’re all going to experience pain. But what you don’t have to experience is suffering. You don’t have to suffer.” Dwayne Kerrigan
Mara is a self-made millionaire, best-selling author, public speaker, and award winning BILF ('Boss I'd Like to Follow') who built a remarkable career in a male-dominated industry. As a top leader at a Fortune 500 subsidiary, she made history by exceeding $1 billion in sales before turning 40. Beyond her corporate achievements, Mara is passionate about mentoring and has guided over 1,500 health insurance agents nationwide, with a particular focus on empowering female entrepreneurs.
Links:
Website: https://maradorne.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheDorneRegion
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mara.dorne
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maradorne/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maradorne/
BILF Podcast: https://maradorne.com/bilf-podcast/
Connect with Dwayne Kerrigan
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedwaynekerriganpodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dwaynekerriganpodcast/
Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dwayne-kerrigan-998113281/
Website: http://www.dwaynekerrigan.com
Disclaimer The views, information, or opinions expressed by guests during The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Dwayne Kerrigan and his affiliates. Dwayne Kerrigan or The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast is not responsible for and does not verify the accuracy of any of the information contained in the podcast series. The primary purpose of this podcast is to educate and inform. Listeners are advised to consult with a qualified professional or specialist before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast.
