S1E38 - Authentic Leadership & the Power of Speaking Up — with CWLA’s Antonella

What does leadership look like when you’re balancing a demanding career, community service, and family life — and still making an impact? In this episode of Business Talk with Meghan McNulty, Meghan sits down with attorney and community leader Antonella, who serves on the boards of the California Women’s Leadership Association (CWLA), Orange County United Way, the Newport Beach Foundation, and the Board of Library Trustees.

Antonella shares candid lessons from her path through corporate law and civic leadership — from standing up for herself early in her career to building coalitions that empower women and strengthen local communities.

You’ll learn:

 How to speak up and advocate for yourself in any organization

 Why authenticity is a competitive advantage in leadership

 How to balance assertiveness with approachability

 The value of mentorship, collaboration, and taking credit where it’s due

 How CWLA is developing women leaders who shape California’s future

Whether you’re leading a business, mentoring a team, or stepping into a public role, this episode offers practical, grounded insights on leading with purpose — and doing it on your own terms.

About Meghan’s Guest

Antonella Castro is a community leader, attorney, and entrepreneur with a passion for service and impact. She serves as Chair of the Newport Beach Foundation and sits on the boards of the California Women’s Leadership Association (CWLA), Orange County United Way, and the Newport Beach Library Board of Trustees — all focused on empowering leaders and strengthening communities. In business, Antonella and her husband co-own KAP7 International, a global sports equipment and distribution company. As a transactional real estate attorney and outside general counsel, she brings practical insight into business growth, contracts, and corporate strategy. Known for her hands-on leadership style and commitment to mentorship, Antonella blends business acumen with community purpose — showing that leadership is about creating opportunities, not just holding titles.