When Hello Moxie launched its very first episode, host Nicole Donnelly flipped the script. Instead of interviewing a guest, she invited longtime friend and fellow podcaster Julie Basello to interview her — pulling back the curtain on the inspiration, purpose, and personal meaning behind the show.
From childhood moments to modern-day leadership challenges, Nicole shared stories that reveal why “Moxie” is more than just a bold word — it’s a way of living.
The Spark: A Sixth-Grade Play and Harriet Tubman’s Courage
Nicole’s journey to Hello Moxie began decades ago, in a sixth-grade classroom with a beloved teacher, Mr. Larson. Tasked with writing and performing a play about a historical figure she admired, Nicole chose Harriet Tubman — a decision that would shape her understanding of bravery and service.
“She struck me as someone who just had such moxie. She rescued so many people through the Underground Railroad and helped them escape slavery… not only did she herself escape, but she had the moxie and the service to go back for others.”
Performing that play before a packed school board meeting cemented Nicole’s love for telling women’s stories — stories that honor the sacrifices of those who came before us and inspire the women who will follow.
Defining Moxie
When Julie asked Nicole to define the word at the heart of her brand, the answer came without hesitation:
“Moxie is pure determination in the face of massive resistance — deciding you’re going to climb that wall no matter what because it’s true and congruent with who you are. You’re going to fall down, you’re going to have to climb back up again… but you keep going. And you say yes to yourself when everyone else is saying no.”
Nicole emphasized that Moxie isn’t about the absence of fear or failure; it’s about persistence and alignment with your core truth.
A Modern Moxie Moment: The Keynote with Three Weeks’ Notice
One of Nicole’s most recent Moxie moments came when a friend invited her to deliver a keynote at a New York City conference — with only three weeks to prepare.
Her first reaction? “What’s special about my story?”
But then she remembered: she had written in her journal a year earlier that she wanted to speak publicly. This was the opportunity she had asked for.
Nicole leaned in — rehearsing endlessly, recording herself, and refining her message. Onstage, she spoke to a male-dominated audience about her journey helping a client through digital transformation. The nerves were real, but the reward was greater:
“The most beautiful part was the relationships I formed because I said yes. Those connections are what made the fear worth facing.”
Takeaway: Sometimes the boldest thing you can do is accept the opportunity you once dreamed of — even if it arrives sooner than you feel “ready.”
Harriet Tubman: Then and Now
In a full-circle moment, Nicole recently introduced her 9-year-old daughter to the film Harriet. Watching together, she reflected on Tubman’s example:
“If Harriet Tubman… could step up and stand up, face incredible persecution and injustice, and still go back again and again to help others — why not me? Why not my daughter?”
For Nicole, Tubman’s story is a generational gift, a living example of purpose-driven courage.
Facing the Future: Women, Work, and AI
The conversation turned to future challenges — particularly the accelerating pace of change and the impact of AI on creative work.
Nicole acknowledged the uncertainty, especially for women already battling imposter syndrome:
“The one thing AI will never have is a body. We can experience the world with our senses, connect with each other, and ground ourselves in ways AI can’t. Maybe instead of trying to keep up with the pace of change, we create more space to be still and to play.”
Takeaway: In a world speeding up, one of the most radical acts may be slowing down and leaning into uniquely human connection.
What’s Lighting Her Up
At the time of recording, Nicole was preparing for her first trip to London to speak at a conference. She was equally lit up by the joy of raising her two daughters:
“So much of what I do — like this project — is for them. I want to show them what’s possible, that they can live with congruence, authenticity, and vulnerability.”
Advice for Future Women
Nicole’s closing advice came back to the theme of honoring those who paved the way:
“Take the time to learn about the women who came before you — in your family and in history. Let their stories inspire you, and figure out how you can honor them in the choices you make every day.”
Key Takeaways
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Moxie is persistence with purpose — staying true to yourself despite resistance.
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Your wall must align with your truth — determination without alignment leads to burnout.
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Say yes to yourself — especially when doubt creeps in.
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Lean into the human experience — your senses, relationships, and intuition are irreplaceable.
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Honor your lineage — knowing the stories of women before you fuels your own courage.
