Influential Woman · Public Relations and Communications Services / Podcasting
Stephanie Figura Carmody
Podcast Host, Second Act Sessions
Glastonbury, CT 06033
Her Story
About Stephanie
Stephanie Figura Carmody is a seasoned public relations executive, event curator, storyteller, and podcast host with more than 25 years of experience spanning brand communications, celebrity public relations, marketing, and large-scale event production. Throughout her career, she has led high-profile campaigns and experiential events for globally recognized brands and organizations, working with companies such as Golin, DeVries Global, Edelman, and Rubenstein Public Relations. Her portfolio includes partnerships with industry-leading brands including Procter & Gamble, PepsiCo, Ferrero Rocher, IT Cosmetics, Southern Comfort, Lipton, and Barilla, as well as collaborations with prominent personalities such as John Legend, Kevin Hart, Tim Gunn, Faith Hill, Kristin Davis, Giada De Laurentiis, Scott Conant, Martha Stewart, and Chandra Wilson. A graduate of Marist University with a bachelor's degree in Communications, Stephanie has built a reputation for crafting compelling brand stories, producing memorable events, and delivering strategic communications that create lasting impact.
After decades of success in corporate public relations, Stephanie embraced a new chapter by launching Second Act Sessions, a podcast and community dedicated to empowering Gen X and midlife women navigating life's major transitions. Drawing from her own experiences with infertility, divorce, emotional healing, and personal reinvention, she facilitates authentic, faith-centered conversations focused on resilience, purpose, and growth. Through interviews, public speaking engagements, and her work as an author-in-progress, she encourages women to embrace change with confidence while demonstrating that purpose continues to evolve throughout every stage of life. Her podcast has earned recognition among the top 10 percent of podcasts, reflecting both the quality of its content and the meaningful connection it has established with listeners.
In addition to hosting her podcast, Stephanie continues to provide freelance public relations and event consulting services while applying the same creativity and strategic insight that defined her corporate career. She is also the founder of Très Chic Events, a boutique event planning company known for designing bespoke celebrations that combine elegance with authenticity. Beyond her professional pursuits, Stephanie remains actively involved in her church through volunteer work and dedicates time to supporting her family and community. Guided by a philosophy of perseverance, lifelong learning, faith, and following one's passion, she continues to inspire others to transform life's challenges into opportunities for personal and professional renewal.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Stephanie
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to resilience, perseverance, and a willingness to embrace new beginnings. After rebuilding my life following an emotionally abusive marriage and starting over later in life, I found purpose in helping other women navigate their own journeys. My greatest accomplishment is never giving up and having the determination to learn an entirely new industry—from podcast production and audio editing to home studio technology and podcast marketing. My experience has shown me that success comes from continually learning, adapting, and having the courage to keep moving forward.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've ever received is to keep showing up and trust the value of my experience. That mindset has given me the confidence to reinvent myself, build my podcast, and embrace this new chapter with purpose. Every opportunity to share my story helps expand my reach, strengthen my credibility, create meaningful connections, and open new doors as a podcast host, author, and speaker.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice is to follow your passion and choose work that brings you purpose and fulfillment. Life is too short to stay in a career—or any situation—that makes you unhappy. Don't be afraid to move forward, embrace change, and create a life that aligns with your values. When you love what you do, your passion and authenticity will naturally set you apart.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest opportunities in my field is the growing demand for authentic, purpose-driven storytelling. People are looking for real conversations that inspire, educate, and create meaningful connections. At the same time, the challenge is standing out in an increasingly crowded media landscape while consistently delivering valuable content. Success today requires authenticity, adaptability, and a genuine commitment to serving your audience.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that matter most to me are faith, family, service, and lifelong learning. I believe in giving back through my church and using my experience to help others whenever I can. I also value meaningful relationships, spending time with my family, and finding joy in life's simple moments—whether that's gardening, traveling, or supporting my nieces. Above all, I strive to live with gratitude, compassion, and a commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others.
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