From X to Z

In this episode, Emmely Fuentez Hernandez is joining me from Bogota Colombia. Emmely discusses her life-changing adventure as an au pair in the United States, spending nearly three years as part of a new family and community. Emmely's journey is a testament to the transformative power of experiencing different cultures, and the challenges that can arise when returning to your roots. Join us today as she shares her story of personal growth and some valuable insights for anyone navigating life's transitions.Here are the highlights:(2:54) Generational differences in education(7:44) Cultural differences in the US(13:40) Adjusting to life after travelling(22:28) Emmely's mental health journey(32:48) Life lessons in teaching(38)03) Self-discovery and resilience Connect with Vikki on Instagram here and on LinkedIn here You can find Emmely on Instagram - emelyfth_

Today, I'm joined by a beacon of hope and a suicide survivor, Candance Washington. She's a powerful advocate for mental health and wellness, wearing many hats, including psychotherapist, founder, author, minister, and board-certified licensed social worker.Above all else, Candance's inspiring story has enabled her to identify ways to help people deal with one of the most significant problems we face: anxiety and mental well-being.Our conversation today delves into concepts like achievement addiction and finding fulfilment beyond accomplishments. Candance draws upon her knowledge and lived experiences to help us gain insights into the crucial art of re-parenting a new generation and going on a transformative journey of self-discovery and healing.Here are the highlights: (08:06) Achievement addiction (11:51) The art of survival(17:12) Anxiety is rooted in fear(19:58) Putting your thoughts on trial(29:05) Where do you find your esteem? (39:38) We all have to take care of our brain health (47:01) Safe relationships! Connect with Vikki on Instagram here and on LinkedIn here

Welcome to today's episode! Today we're going to be delving into the concept of vacationing and how it has evolved for me over the years. I will be sharing tips and tricks on how to get the most out of vacationing to rejuvenate your mind, body and soul.. Let's get into it! Here are the highlights: (01:44) Memories (03:11) Vacation for personal growth (03:30) 5 tips to consider (04:38) Self care

Join me this week as I chat with the amazing Lydia Harris, a Gen Z birth doula, postpartum doula, and VBAC practitioner. We dive deep into the transformative role of communities, both online and offline. Lydia shares her journey to doula work, its impact on communities, and how Gen Z is redefining connection in today's tech era. If you're looking for a fresh perspective on modern community and connection, then this one's for you!Here are the highlights:(6:46) The role of a doula. (9:28) The difference between online and physical connections. (14:56) The rules of a good relationship.(26:23) How the digital community shapes our daily interactions. (32:04) How the landscape of community is changing.Connect with Lydia:Instagram @Labor.with.loveTikTok @LaborwithloveConnect with Vikki on Instagram here and on LinkedIn here

I'm thrilled to introduce you to my guest, Manisha Dhawan. Manisha is an executive coach, consultant, facilitator, author, speaker, and the founder of Empath Coaching. She has worked with renowned organisations like PwC, Deloitte, and Taco Bell as a digital agile leader and strategic advisor.She possesses a wealth of knowledge and experience in navigating change in dynamic corporate environments.Today, we're discussing burnout! Manisha shares practical ways that we can prevent burnout in an era where we face unique challenges every day.Highlights:(04:45) You start to normalise your circumstances (08:55) Having empathy is huge! (14:27) Paying attention to those early signals and signs(21:02) The art of saying no!(24:00) Do, delegate, delete, automate(30:36) Mentorships can come in unexpected places (37:53) Track and log your accomplishments! (38:59) Stay adaptable! Connect with Vikki on Instagram here and on LinkedIn here

Daniel Ojo joins me this week to have an open discussion about identity and social justice. Daniel is a 23-year-old Nigerian-American and a Master's in Public Administration graduate from Cornell University. He is the Director of Impact Strategies and Culture at JUV Consulting, a Gen Z digital marketing consultancy.Whether it's activism or social impact marketing campaigns with Fortune 500 companies, his goal remains the same: impact with intention, especially for marginalised communities. In this episode, he shares some thought-provoking insights on how we can change the narrative and embrace our identity.Highlights:(09:52) Radical self love(12:27) Continue to ask why(16:37) It's too anxiety producing (24:20) Learn to let go(27:38) Apologetic and radical (32:00) Lead with good intention (33:17) This movement will not start and end with you Daniel OjoInstagram: @daniel_ojo Website: ojonyc.com Connect with Vikki on Instagram here and on LinkedIn here

This week, we're talking about substance abuse with key insights from Dr. Kelly Butler.Dr. Butler is a resident physician in family medicine at Zuckerberg San Francisco General Hospital. Hailing from Los Angeles, she has committed herself to serving marginalised communities with people suffering from substance use disorder, addiction, and those without access to basic needs.Today, we'll be learning how we can be compassionate and understanding towards people suffering from substance use disorder.Highlights:(06:12) Influence and impact (07:00) Physicians can be these change agents (10:48) Language matters(17:46) Withdrawal is life threatening (22:02) Identifying why(26:01) Potential risks and long term effects (29:51) Listen to that voice, it matters!(33:06) It's a journey (40:28) Grounded in my passionDr Kelley Butler's social handle: @whatkbsaysgoesConnect with Vikki on Instagram here and on LinkedIn here

My guest today is Carmine Montalto, an industry expert, founder, and the creative voice behind the Skincarma blog.Carmine is a veteran copywriter, brand guru, and skincare junkie who has over 25 years of experience in the beauty industry and has been instrumental in the development of many skincare brands.In this episode, he shares his secrets to having healthy, radiant skin with invaluable tips that apply to all generations so that we have the right tools to care for our skin.Highlights: (11:48) Adapting skincare for the seasons (15:35) Pore maintenance (15:50) A, B, and C!(20:19) Find sources that you believe are credible (28:10) Skincare myths(33:01) If you can see the sun, the sun can see you!(42:20) Skin care I think is self-care Connect with Vikki on Instagram here and on LinkedIn here

This week, I am thrilled to have Afreka Ebanks on the podcast. She's a brand strategist at a leading agency in NYC, she has a wealth of knowledge in helping brands understand cultural climate and authentically connect with their audiences. She also recently pinned an insightful article titled Gen Z, Ageing with Beauty. As a creative cultural explorer and a passionate enthusiast of global art, Afreka firmly believes in the influential role of imagination and human connection in inspiring creativity.During our conversation, Afreka will guide us in exploring the impact of beauty on our society and ways in which we can challenge prevailing stereotypes.Highlights:(09:48) Hungry to change the world (11:23) The standard of beauty (17:06) “Almond mum'' mentality (22:36) Empowering beauty(24:49) Challenge the beauty industry (28:08) Intergenerational work(36:06) Lead with empathyAfreka Ebanks handles on socialIG: @afrekaebanks, LinkedIn: Url is https://www.linkedin.com/in/afrekaebanks/ Connect with Vikki on Instagram here and on LinkedIn here

Today I'm joined by Raashmi Krishnasamy, a future Osteopathic physician and an advocate for community-centred care. She started her career in neuroscience but soon discovered her true calling. Her journey serves as a reminder of the transformative power of healthcare professionals who dedicated themselves to serving their communities. In this episode, she tells us what community-centred care is with personal examples of the kind of impact this can have on healthcare across the world. Highlights:(05:21) Different approach to problem solving (12:41) Taking action(18:08) Social determinants of care(20:24) Think outside the box!(24:47) True equitable care deliveryYou can connect with Raashmi hereInstagram: @raashmikTwitter: @raashmi_kLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/raashmik/Connect with Vikki on Instagram here and on LinkedIn here

In this episode I am joined by Gillian Hazelton, a Junior Strategist at Terri & Sandy. Gillian was a keen sportsperson, and began her college career at the University of Oregon studying business. However, she struggled to connect and eventually pivoted into advertising, which put her on a path towards Terri & Sandy, where her internship became a fully-fledged career. As a Junior Strategist, Gillian describes her role as one of finding connection between brands and consumers, and in this episode we discuss the particular challenges of connecting to Gen Z, the rise of the influencer, and the future trends in the advertising world. Spoiler alert: things get real! Highlights from this episode: (03:02) What does a strategist do? (07:53) Marketing to Gen Z (13:32) Figure out what people want to feel (16:48) How social media plays into wellness advertising (19:24) Addressing mental health (21:23) Inclusivity in the wellness industry CONNECT WITH GILLIAN ON LINKEDIN HERE Connect with Vikki on Instagram here and on LinkedIn here

In this episode I am joined by Yumiko Nakamura, a resident physician at San Francisco General Hospital, specializing in family medicine. After studying phsychology at college, she dedicated her time as a community health volunteer and played a crucial role in structuring an insurance outreach and enrollment program within the community. This sparked an interest in medicine, leading her to pursue a medical degree at the University of Florida College of Medicine. Currently, Dr. Nakamura is in her residency training at San Francisco General Hospital specializing in family medicine, and her deep understanding of the healthcare system coupled with a genuine passion for providing comprehensive care to individuals and families makes her an invaluable resource for unraveling the complexities and navigating the healthcare landscape. In this podcast she is going to demystify the US healthcare system and help you understand how to navigate it... all in just 30 minutes. Highlights from this episode: (05:34) The process of medical school (10:33) Myths & misconceptions of the healthcare system (12:58) The importance of having a primary care physician (17:56) What makes a good primary care physician? (23:28) Preventative services for young adults (28:27) Pay attention to what you're feeling Connect with Vikki on Instagram here and on LinkedIn here

In this episode, we're diving into a topic that affects all of us, maintaining healthy relationships. Whether it's with your parents, siblings, friends, partners, or even co workers, relationships play a critical role in our lives.No matter what kind of relationship we're talking about, the key to optimising them is being your best self. Or at least demonstrating that as your intention- and that's what we're going to explore today.Highlights:(0:02) Maintaining healthy relationships with family and friends.(1:13) The power of having a strong relationship.(4:44) How to maintain healthy relationships.(6:55) Communication is the foundation.(9:01) How to have a healthy relationship with yourself.Connect with Vikki on Instagram here and on LinkedIn here

This week, it's all about beauty and personal care - but not about the surface level stuff. I've been in this industry for a while and boy have I seen it all! Body care, cosmetics, skincare, fragrances… You name it, I've seen it. So, I'll be diving deeper into all of this to help you understand the power that this can all have on our mental health and general wellbeing. Highlights:(01:50) The Lipstick Effect(03:31) We're evolving!(03:58) Key points the highlight this (04:24) Feeling good from within (08:46) Take a step backConnect with Vikki on Instagram here and on LinkedIn here

Welcome to the very first episode of from X to Z!Life can be crazy, but taking care of our wellbeing is crucial.But, how do we do that? Well, buckle up because no matter what generation you belong to, I'm about to give you steps on how to prioritize your mental health and wellbeing. Highlights:(04:02) Reduce stigma(04:45) A strategy (05:52) It's a delicate balance!(07:57) Actionable tips(08:23) Learn to say noConnect with Vikki on Instagram here and on LinkedIn here

Welcome to From X to Z, the ultimate destination for those on the journey to optimal health, wellness and life.I am Vikki and I am passionate about innovation, health, wellness and being a sounding board for the next generation.Each week, I team up with a new guest from the Gen Z crew, who's an innovative trendsetter in the areas of health, self care and wellness.Real Talk. No BS . No Filters.