Piece Of The Pai

Solo travel can be one of the most radical ways a woman learns to trust herself, hear herself, and build a life that actually fits.   In this episode, Nesha Pai shares how a solo trip to Paris turned into part-time living, and why she believes every woman should try traveling alone at least once. She talks about the years of intentional choices that made this possible, from starting her own business to setting aside $25 at a time for a travel fund. None of it happened overnight. But over time, it added up to something bigger: a life designed with purpose.   What happens when you give yourself space to be fully alone? What do you learn when there's no one else to consult, compromise with, or wait for? Nesha explains how solo travel creates clarity, confidence, and connection, and how Paris gave her a sense of ease she couldn't find anywhere else.   This episode is for anyone who's felt the pull to step outside their routine and listen to the voice that says, “There's more.” Whether or not part-time living is on your radar, the real question is this: what would change if you stopped waiting for the perfect time and just went?   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction 00:54 Why Solo Travel Matters for Women 03:15 How I Built a Remote Life on Purpose 05:05 Why I Chose Paris 08:00 The Real Benefits of Solo Travel 09:25 What Part-Time Living Can Offer 10:19 The Truth About Traveling Alone 11:25 Stop Waiting - Take the Leap   Connect with Nesha:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neshapai/ Website: https://www.neshapai.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/neshapai LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neshapaicpa Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm  

Your growth will never outpace your environment.   In this episode, Nesha Pai breaks down why proximity is power, and how the people you spend time with are quietly shaping your mindset, energy, and success. If you've ever felt stuck, uninspired, or like your dreams are “too much” for the people around you, it might be time to audit your circle.   From redefining her own champion circle to building a business rooted in aligned relationships, Nesha shares personal stories and practical steps for finding the right rooms and protecting your energy. You'll learn how to shift your digital environment, join communities that reflect where you're headed, and let go of guilt when it's time to outgrow old patterns.   This is your reminder that confidence grows in proximity to courage, and your next breakthrough might just be one bold connection away.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction 00:44 What Proximity Is Power Really Means 02:03 How Your Inner Circle Shapes You 03:09 Self-Inventory: Who's in Your Circle? 04:37 Shifting Your Champion Circle 06:27 You Rise to the Level of Your Environment 07:14 Three Ways to Build a Stronger Circle 09:16 Final Thoughts on Confidence and Proximity 10:23 Closing and Sponsor Acknowledgment Connect with Nesha:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neshapai/ Website: https://www.neshapai.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/neshapai LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neshapaicpa Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm  

Clarity isn't about having all the answers; it's about finally hearing the truth that's been waiting inside you.   What if the fog you keep running into isn't a barrier, but an invitation? In this episode, Nesha Pai sits down with Emily Paul, the founder of Aum Holistic Healing Arts, to talk about what it really means to come home to yourself. Through her work rooted in Daoism, alchemy, and intuitive guidance, Emily helps people reconnect with their purpose, not by chasing something outside themselves, but by learning to listen inward.   Nesha and Emily discuss how clarity often arrives quietly, after we've started shedding old stories and tuning into the parts of ourselves we've been taught to ignore. Emily shares how her approach, including the Nine Palaces of Daoist alchemy, offers a structure for understanding the different areas of life like health, wealth, creativity, wisdom, and how they can work together to bring us into alignment.   This episode reminds us that clarity grows when we pause long enough to ask better questions and stay open to what rises up.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction 02:02 Why Clarity Matters 05:18 Navigating Inner Fog 10:32 The Challenge of Going Inward 13:31 Resistance as an Ally 14:37 Taoist Alchemy and the Nine Palaces 19:04 Returning to Your True Nature 23:04 Soul Purpose vs. Societal Norms 24:04 Intuition vs. Mental Noise 27:48 Clarity's Role in Leadership 30:36 Follow the Nudge Connect with Emily Paul: https://www.aumemily.com/nine-palaces-compass/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-paul-83712774/   Connect with Nesha:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neshapai/ Website: https://www.neshapai.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/neshapai LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neshapaicpa Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm  

Confidence doesn't come first. You earn it by doing the things that scare you.   Fear has a way of showing up right before something meaningful. So how do you move forward when it feels safer to stay still? In this episode, Nesha Pai talks about the power of courage and why doing the hard, scary things is the only way to build real confidence.   Through stories of joining an MMA gym, performing in a dance competition, and traveling solo, she shares how pushing past fear changed her from the inside out. You'll learn simple ways to take action, even when your nerves tell you not to, and why fear might actually mean you're heading in the right direction.   This is your reminder that confidence doesn't arrive before the leap. It shows up because you were brave enough to jump.   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction 00:33 Why Doing Hard Things Builds Confidence 02:02 Fear as a Signal for Growth 03:19 Confidence Comes From Action 03:53 Personal Stories of Pushing Past Fear 07:09 How to Start Doing Hard Things 10:12 The Magic of Stepping into Discomfort Connect with Nesha:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neshapai/ Website: https://www.neshapai.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/neshapai LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neshapaicpa Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm  

Self-love isn't a luxury or a trend. It's a daily decision to treat yourself with the same kindness you offer everyone else. In this episode, Nesha Pai breaks down what self-love truly means and why it's central to living a fulfilling life. She reflects on her own upbringing in East Tennessee, where societal pressures made self-acceptance difficult, and shares how learning to turn inward with grace and honesty changed everything.   Nesha challenges the idea that self-love is about bubble baths and affirmations. Instead, she reframes it as an ongoing practice built on how we think, speak, and care for ourselves. From setting boundaries to honoring your body, she offers strategies to replace self-criticism with compassion.   This episode touches on comparison, perfectionism, and the myth that self-love is selfish. Nesha makes the case that when we care for ourselves, we expand our capacity to support others. Her message is simple: self-love fuels confidence, resilience, and true fulfillment.   Quotes “Self-love is accepting yourself without conditions, setting boundaries that protect your peace, showing yourself grace when you make mistakes, and taking care of your mind, body, and spirit because you deserve to feel good.” (02:58 | Nesha Pai) “Just like we learn to be hard on ourselves, we can also learn to be kind to ourselves.” (05:09 | Nesha Pai) “Your body isn't just something to look at. It is the vessel, the vehicle that carries your soul through your life.” (07:40 | Nesha Pai) “Taking care of yourself doesn't take away from others. It allows you to give more freely from a place of fullness, not depletion.” (13:21 | Nesha Pai) “You are worthy of love exactly as you are—right now. Not when you lose weight, not when you land your dream job, not when you're in a relationship. None of that. Right now, in this moment.” (14:05 | Nesha Pai)   Links: Self Love Weekly Challenge Journal Sheet: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1MARQpYI2JxRREjTYnmPt53lkxuE5qfqK/view?usp=drive_link Connect with Nesha:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neshapai/ Website: https://www.neshapai.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/neshapai LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neshapaicpa Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm  

Your mind is your most powerful tool. Nesha Pai welcomes Dr. Jeff Karp, a Harvard Medical School professor and author of “LIT: Life Ignition Tools,” to talk about how small, intentional shifts can spark creativity, resilience, and meaningful change.   The key to a more fulfilling life isn't about doing more, but about thinking differently. Dr. Karp explains how simple daily choices—setting an intention, embracing failure, and staying present—can open doors to unexpected growth. He reflects on his own struggles with learning and self-doubt, revealing how they shaped his understanding of resilience and the role of community in personal success.   This conversation challenges the idea that success happens alone. Instead, it's about connection, curiosity, and seeing failure as a stepping stone rather than a setback. If you're looking for ways to shift your mindset and spark real change, join Nesha Pai and Dr. Karp in this episode!   Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Introduction  03:14 Finding Purpose and Creativity 05:00 The Power of Observation and Intention 08:26 The Importance of Being Present 10:48 Practical Tools in LIT 19:05 The Role of Neurodiversity in Society 23:02 Embracing Failure as a Gift 27:04 The Importance of Community in Resilience 30:54 Using Failure to Foster Creativity 33:09 Embracing Imposter Syndrome 38:38 Common Traits of High Performers 41:10 The Concept of Holon 43:10 Setting Intentions for Connection Connect with Dr. Jeff Karp: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffkarpboston/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrjeffkarp/ X: https://x.com/MrJeffKarp TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeff_karp Buy Amazon book: https://a.co/d/d6vKYBu   Connect with Nesha:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neshapai/ Website: https://www.neshapai.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/neshapai LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neshapaicpa Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm  

Gratitude shapes the way we see our challenges, our progress, and the road ahead. But how often do we actually pause and acknowledge how far we've come? Nesha Pai explores how gratitude and self-reflection can shift your mindset and help you find meaning in both the highs and the lows. She reminds us that gratitude isn't reserved for big wins. It's found in the small, everyday moments that often go unnoticed. What if paying attention to those moments could change the way you experience life? Self-reflection plays a key role in this process, offering a chance to recognize growth, learn from challenges, and even find gratitude in difficult seasons. Nesha shares questions to help you reflect on your journey, along with a deeply personal story of loss and resilience. Through it all, she turned to gratitude as a source of strength and motivation. This episode is filled with simple, practical ways to make gratitude and self-reflection part of your daily routine. Nesha leaves listeners with a challenge: start noticing the good, acknowledge your progress, and stay thankful for where you are right now. The way you see your life might change more than you expect. Quotes “What if instead of only celebrating the big things, we learn to find joy in the ordinary, the everyday, even the mundane.” (02:20 | Nesha Pai) “Gratitude helps us see the good, but self-reflection helps us understand the journey.” (03:07 | Nesha Pai) “Every day, so that I wouldn't delve into the depths of depression and hell, I tried to find something that I was grateful for.” (05:43 | Nesha Pai) “I look at obstacles as things that derail us, that detour us. So we're taking the scenic route to get to where we wanna go.” (06:42 | Nesha Pai) “Dream big, reflect often, and always, always be grateful. I promise you it will change your heart and it will shift your mind.” (09:42 | Nesha Pai) Connect with Nesha:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neshapai/ Website: https://www.neshapai.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/neshapai LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neshapaicpa Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm  

Most people think long-term travel is out of reach, but what if the biggest obstacle is just figuring out how to make it happen? Nesha Pai always dreamed of living in Paris, but for years, life got in the way—work, family, responsibilities. Sound familiar? In this episode, she shares how she stopped waiting for the perfect time and started creating a plan. She breaks down the practical steps that turned her three-month stay in Paris into reality, from building a remote business to shifting financial priorities and setting a clear budget. Nesha also introduces the dream map, a tool designed to help you get clear on your goals, take meaningful action, and stay focused. Whether your dream is Paris or something completely different, this episode will challenge you to ask: What small steps can I take today to move closer to the life I want? Quotes “At one point, I even had a passport that expired with zero stamps in it. Zero. It was just sadly sitting there waiting for a life that I wasn't living yet.” (02:43 | Nesha Pai) “I got to experience Paris as an adult, traveling the way I wanted to. No budget student version, no chaperone duties, just me, fully present in a city I adored.” (04:51 | Nesha Pai) “If you want to live somewhere else, even part-time, you have to find a way to make money that isn't tied to one location.” (05:51 | Nesha Pai) “I'm not a billionaire. I'm not someone who just gets to live a jet-set lifestyle without a care in the world. I planned for this. I prioritized it and I made it happen.” (07:42 | Nesha Pai)  “If I can start living my dream in Paris at 53 years old, so can you.” (09:11 | Nesha Pai)    Links Nesha's Dream Map:  https://drive.google.com/file/d/1K7UvEvB8UAGfIPzz9SjaqGnc3uPulRps/view?usp=drive_link   Connect with Nesha Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neshapai/ Website: https://www.neshapai.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/neshapai LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neshapaicpa Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Most people dream, but only a few take the bold, consistent actions needed to turn those dreams into reality. Are you ready to be one of them? Nesha Pai is indeed back, and in this episode, she talks about the foundational elements that help transform dreams into success. She breaks it down into four key pillars: courage, clarity, commitment, and champions. Courage drives action, clarity provides the roadmap, commitment ensures steady progress, and champions offer essential support along the way. Pointing out that only 8% of people achieve their dreams, Nesha showcases the power of intentional action. Drawing from a quote shared by her friend Ryan LaVarnway, “Information without application is stagnation, but information with application is transformation,” she challenges listeners to apply what they learn to truly transform their lives. Nesha shares her journey of perseverance in building a thriving speaking business and accounting firm, showing us that achieving our dreams requires consistent action over time. Her empowering call to action for big dreamers? Embrace her simple formula for success and keep striving toward their vision with courage and determination. Quotes “I realized that we can't achieve our big dreams or our big life vision without living boldly and defying all of the obstacles that come our way, whether small or big. If we nurture these four things—courage, clarity, commitment, and champions—I believe we can achieve the dreams we have for ourselves.” (00:43 | Nesha Pai) “Dreaming is at the heart of disruption. It's only when we dream that we can hope to create something truly new, something that will overtake old habits, old customs, and old ways of thinking and being.” (02:23 | Nesha Pai) “My friend and fellow author and speaker, Ryan LaVarnway, had heard this quote and shared it on his page: ‘Information without application is stagnation, but information with application is transformation.'” (03:03 | Nesha Pai)  “Only consistent actions over time will get me there… Progress moving in the right direction is all we need to keep going.” (05:38 | Nesha Pai) “You put your dreams into action by moving the needle forward and choosing to not be stagnant.” (06:40 | Nesha Pai)    Connect with Nesha:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neshapai/ Website: https://www.neshapai.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/neshapai LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neshapaicpa Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm  

Dreaming big isn't easy, but with courage, clarity, commitment, and champions, it's always possible. In this first episode of Courageous Dreamers Win, Nesha Pai opens up about the resilience required to chase a clear life vision, even when life throws its hardest challenges. Reflecting on her journey through personal loss, illness, and rebranding her podcast, Nesha points out how staying committed to your dreams can turn even the toughest storms into stepping stones. Nesha introduces four essential pillars—clarity, courage, commitment, and champions—that can help you build the life you envision. From uncovering what sparks your happiness to surrounding yourself with a strong support system, these strategies are both actionable and deeply personal. Through her story, Nesha reminds us that life's setbacks don't define us; our response does. How will you hold onto your dreams when the road gets tough? Courageous Dreamers Win is a call to hold onto your dreams, chase joy, and remember that your voice and vision matter more than you realize. Tune in and subscribe today! Quotes: “I didn't come this far just to get this far, and neither did you. You must remember this at every obstacle that will try to derail you.” (04:51 | Nesha Pai)  “Courage is a muscle. Flex it every day. How you build it is by how much you're willing to step out into the unknown and discomfort.” (05:58 | Nesha Pai) “Without your health, you have nothing. If you're alive, healthy, have a roof over your head, good food to eat, and people that love you, you are already rich.” (08:45 | Nesha Pai) “Chase purpose instead. I promise the money will follow.” (09:15 | Nesha Pai) “Your voice matters, and what makes you different matters. You are the person in this world that can make the difference we all so desperately need. The people in your life need you, but more importantly, the world needs you.” (10:05 | Nesha Pai) “Keep going and whatever you do, never, ever give up on yourself or the life you envision.” (10:38 | Nesha Pai) Connect with Nesha:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neshapai/ Website: https://www.neshapai.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/neshapai LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neshapaicpa Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

“We all have the right to try something different, to express ourselves, to challenge ourselves,” says Jane Bertch, owner of La Cuisine Paris and author of the memoir “The French Ingredient.” In this episode, she joins Nesha Pai to share her journey from banking to entrepreneurship in Paris. Jane explains how a vision during a low point in her life led her to create La Cuisine Paris, overcoming skepticism from her family and the French community. She emphasizes the importance of listening to the universe and dreaming big, even in challenging times.   This episode also delves into the cultural differences between France and the United States, particularly in forming friendships, and debunks myths about living in Paris. Highlighting the city's beauty and challenges, Jane stresses the need to respect French culture for a richer experience. She hopes her work inspires others to pursue their dreams, with Nesha echoing the importance of evolving throughout life.   Quotes “There are so many people who put pressure on themselves to find this passion, to chase a dream that they haven't discovered yet. And La Cuisine was not my dream. It was a vision that came to me and my dream became to realize it. And that can happen to any of us at any time.” (05:01 | Jane Bertch) “We all have the right to try something different, to express ourselves, to challenge ourselves. And at this ripe age, I feel like I finally do that unintentionally, which is good. It's in my subconscious.” (14:43 | Jane Bertch)  “Why did I write that memoir? I guess that memoir for me was a little legacy of—I hope whoever picks it up sees beyond the Paris story and says to themselves, ‘What the heck, if this gal from Chicago who knew nothing about anything was able to completely pick up and pivot her life and do something different, then I can do whatever I want.' So, if my legacy is a small, small, small bit of inspiration that somebody says, ‘You know what, I'm just going to try my best, and I'm going to do it, and I'm not going to self-doubt.'—if that's what I can impart upon people, I'll feel good.” (30:21  | Jane Bertch)  Connect with Jane Bertch: https://www.instagram.com/janebertch/ https://www.instagram.com/lacuisineparis/ Book: https://www.amazon.com/French-Ingredient-Making-Lesson-Memoir/dp/0593500423   Connect with Nesha:  Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/neshapai/ Youtube | https://www.youtube.com/@neshapai1480/videos Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

“For me, success is that you really enjoy certain things and then you don't even complain about it,” says Sripal Jain, a first-generation entrepreneur and co-founder of Simandhar Education. In this episode, Sripal shares his journey from working at corporate giants to founding an educational institute that offers alternative certifications and practical skills for accounting graduates in India.   Sripal discusses his motivation behind Simandhar Education, addressing the high failure rate of the Indian Chartered Accountancy exam and limited career options for graduates. He emphasizes the importance of mentorship and practical skills to complement theoretical knowledge, preparing students for exams like the US CPA and US CMA.   The discussion highlights the challenges of “hustle” culture, the importance of delegation, and building a strong team. Sripal also touches on the declining interest in accounting among young people and how integrating technology into the CPA curriculum can revive the profession. He believes AI will automate routine tasks, but human judgment in areas like audit and advisory will remain crucial.   Sripal defines success as enjoying one's work and making a significant impact on others' lives. His insights go beyond the technical aspects of accounting, exploring how passion, vision, and a commitment to education can drive meaningful change. Tune in for an insightful conversation on education, mentorship, and the evolving accounting profession.   Quotes “I think education, personally, is not information. It's rather a transformation… I think it's the complete change in attitude, how you work, how you talk, how you behave. So I think these are all factors of having a great education. And one more thing, I felt that skills are very important. And today's students, they're not getting those practical skills which are required in order to be employable. At Simandhar, it's not that we only teach CPA, CMA, CIE or EA. But I feel that personally, we also teach them how to be industry leaders, and make them corporate ready.” (09:29 | Sripal Jain)  “For me, success is that you really enjoy certain things and then you don't even complain about it.” (27:15 | Sripal Jain)  “I think the legacy which I would leave here is to give a very strong message to education institutes. I think it's very, very important that you take your students very seriously. And there are a lot of people who put in a lot of effort, who put in a lot of hard work and put their money on this and then they enroll with you. So I think education is not some product or a commodity. It's actually, like I said, a transformation.” (29:47 | Sripal Jain) Connect with Sripal Jain: Website | https://www.simandhareducation.com/   Connect with Nesha:  Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/neshapai/ Youtube | https://www.youtube.com/@neshapai1480/videos Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm 

Tamara Edwards, Founder and Principal of Tamara Edwards and Co., spent a decade working in public relations for several prominent congressmen in Washington, DC, a fast-paced, highly-choreographed environment that required a great deal of nimbleness and strategic thinking. Once she moved back to her native Chicago, she realized that communication in the rest of the world took on a very different form from the esoteric manner of “the beltway,” yet the same elements for developing political campaigns could also be applied to creating PR packages and personal branding strategies for entrepreneurs. Now, Tamara offers Personal Brand in a Box, going beyond the usual offerings to provide global business entrepreneurs, industry leaders, philanthropists with the tools, techniques and strategies they need to stay relevant.  On today's episode, she'll discuss what people get wrong about PR. They tend to ask the wrong questions, aren't willing to put in the groundwork, and want too much too soon. It's a long game, she explains, and people need to have patience.  She offers advice on what to look–and look out–for when hiring a PR agent, as well as the limits of PR.  Quotes: “It was apparent to me that the language that we spoke in DC and in the DC bubble, the beltway, as they say, was very different than the conversations that were happening outside.” (9:23 | Tamara) “Business leaders have a lot more autonomy to influence–of course, policymakers make huge decisions on our behalf–but at the same time, we're talking about job creators, industry makers that I get to work with, people who are just starting out their business who have a vision. And so taking all of those skills and ideas of how we wrap our hands around these individuals and get them to where they're going was just very much in my nature.” (11:03 | Tamara) “Think of why they call it PR campaigns. What is the campaign? What are we campaigning for? So I take a lot of that methodology and apply it. If you're running for office or anything, what are your foundational sort of points of view on X issue? How are you going to deliver that message? And then how are you going to build coalition, community and really get your message out.” (13:06 | Tamara) “What makes me really happy is when people say they felt like a celebrity, and they felt so comfortable. And they didn't really think that this was available to them.” (19:41 | Tamara) “It's a building block. It's not an overnight thing. It's a long game. It is a very long game.” (25:07 | Tamara)  “You have to think like a business person. If you're in a decision-making capacity to make decisions around branding, and maybe it's not something that you've thought about. But all of these things play together, it needs to be comprehensive.” (30:37 | Tamara) Connect with Tamara Edwards: Website | https://www.tamaraedwards.co/ Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/itstamaraedwards/ Connect with Nesha:  Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/neshapai/ Youtube | https://www.youtube.com/@neshapai1480/videos Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm  

As an entrepreneur, are you struggling to effectively manage your time? Well then, you're not alone! In today's episode of Piece of the Pai, host Nesha Pai sits down with Megan Sumrell, owner of The Pink Bee to discuss the importance of weekly planning and how to reimagine the concept of self-care so you can prevent overbooking and feel confident about your commitments. Prior you commit to chasing your grand aspirations, Megan suggests learning how to first conquer your daily and weekly challenges. By setting yourself up for success on a weekly basis, you are able to take a step back and prioritize both crucial tasks and personal time. In addition, Megan encourages listeners to reconsider their perspective on self-care. Self-care extends beyond the occasional face-mask or trip to the spa, but rather includes tasks that bring genuine happiness and health to our lives.  Megan's story serves as a poignant reminder that in the hustle and bustle of daily responsibilities, it's essential to carve out time for personal interests and self-care to maintain a sense of identity and overall well-being. Join the conversation to feel inspired  to master weekly planning and redefine self-care, because both are integral to achieving balance and fulfillment in our lives. Quotes: “I had completely lost myself and I didn't even know I had. I was so busy tackling my daily list, Everything for work, everything for home. And from the outside looking in, I looked like someone that had it all together. But on the inside, I had lost all connection with myself because I was in constant service to others.” (05:44 | Megan)   “I've learned to program my phone so it only talks to me when I want it to talk to me.” (10:27 | Megan) “It's really important for business owners to have clear set boundaries on lines of communication that allow everybody to function in their role and not be interrupted unless it's worthy of interruption.” (12:44 | Megan) “Rather than starting with, let's set your big goals and dreams, heck no. Let's get you out of overwhelm with your weekly life first, then your monthly life.” (23:16 | Megan)   Connect with Megan Sumrell: Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/megansumrell/ App | https://www.megansumrell.com/thepinkbeeapp Website |  https://www.megansumrell.com/ Free Time Management Training | https://www.megansumrell.com/a/2147524017/UVbQFFC4 Annual Plan-A-Palooza |  https://www.megansumrell.com/a/2147613331/UVbQFFC4   Connect with Nesha:  Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/neshapai/ Youtube | https://www.youtube.com/@neshapai1480/videos Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm  

In this episode, host Nesha Pai engages in a heartfelt conversation with Ashley Theis, renowned as The Constant Wayfarer. Their conversation dives into Ashley's remarkable journey as a travel concierge and the hurdles she overcame while building her own enterprise. Unveiling the misconceptions surrounding travel agents, Ashley explains the invaluable contributions they make to the happiness of their clientele.  Ashley's journey testifies to the strength of pursuing passion and embracing risks. After working in various jobs, she courageously pursued her dream of becoming a travel advisor. The genesis of her agency, The Constant Wayfarer, was met with skepticism, yet her unwavering commitment to curating exceptional travel experiences for clients triumphed.   What elevates Ashley as a travel concierge is her methodology and meticulous attention to detail. Every client's wants and needs are understood, from travel predilections to bucket-list aspirations. Leveraging an extensive network of travel partners and local liaisons, Ashley ensures each journey is tailored to the individual. From itinerary curation to seamless bookings, she unburdens clients from the hassles of travel logistics, allowing them to enjoy every moment of their well-earned vacations. Ashley's story only reiterates that success is measured not solely by conventional metrics, but by the impact on others and the gratification of pursuing your dreams.  Quotes: “And I'm very thankful that I have parents who are also small business owners. My dad's been a photographer for, gosh, 50 years or whatever. And he was like, the worst thing that could happen is it fails. And if it fails, you'll survive and you'll figure something else out. And you'll do that. But it never hurts to try.” (4:25 | Ashley) “I'm very thankful that I had the privilege to have a family to fall back on to be in their house for much longer than I intended. And when the middle of 2020 hit, and the full time job decided that they needed to essentially lay people off, I took that as my opportunity to leave and actually, like, basically volunteered myself to do that. So emotionally, it was absolutely the most stressful time I've ever been in. But I'm so so grateful for it. Because if it hadn't happened the way it was,, I don't know if I would have been able to be full time at that point.” (09:28| Ashley) “And just having that on the ground experience is super important. And then it helps in the sense of once I actually am sending clients, I can be like, this is where I stayed. You will love it for X, Y, Z reasons. Make sure you talk to this concierge. She's the best. Like those kinds of notes are always invaluable for my clients. And I think some of my clients come to me because they don't have the time. Some come to me because it's a destination that they're just maybe intimidated by. And some come to me because they want access to the local partners we use and the hotels that we partner with to give them VIP amenities.”  (23:50 | Ashley)  “I didn't want to sit and wait around to explore the world until I had a partner to do so. I wanted to capitalize on the time I had in my singlehood to explore and see all the things I could.” (26:29 | Ashley)  Connect with Ashley Theis: Website | https://theconstantwayfarer.com/ Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/theconstantwayfarer/   Connect with Nesha:  Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/neshapai/ Youtube | https://www.youtube.com/@neshapai1480/videos Buy a copy of Nesha's book, Overcoming Ordinary Obstacles: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1943070741?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_KEGQ1539QQ5N8Z8XHRNC Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm  

April Simpkins, Chief Human Resources Officer for Quest Co, is on a mission to break the stigma surrounding mental illness and promote mental wellness in the workplace. Following the passing of her beloved daughter, Cheslie Kryst, Miss USA 2019, who battled depression for years, April has since dedicated her life to advocating for mental health.  With unwavering conviction, she calls for the normalization of conversations about mental health in the workplace, urging employers to create a safe haven for employees to openly express their struggles without fear of judgment or stigma. From interviews to onboarding, April advocates for open discussions about mental wellness and the importance of utilizing resources like the Employee Assistance Program (EAP). With each word she shares, April's mission gains momentum. She dreams of a world where kindness and empathy reign, where seeking help for mental health challenges is met with understanding and support. By bravely championing mental wellness, April ignites a spark of hope that together, we can shatter barriers and embrace a brighter, more compassionate future. Let us join her in this crusade, breaking the silence and forging a path where mental well-being is valued, and empathy becomes a universal language. As April's voice resonates, we are reminded that compassion can heal unseen wounds, and together, we can build a world where seeking help is seen as an act of courage and strength. Quotes: "We should be able to talk about our mental health like we talk about other challenges we are facing and not be judged, ridiculed, shamed, or blamed." (04:18 | April Simpkins) "When someone is battling with bipolar disorder and they say, 'Listen, if I'm having a bad moment, this is what I need from my employer,' you taking space to give them that room as an employer will build loyalty and an environment where people feel safe saying, 'I'm not okay today.'" (08:57 | April Simpkins) "When someone says, 'How are you doing?' Let it be a trigger for you to go back to your own chart and say, 'I'm a six, that for me means I'm not doing great, but I'm not in a bad place, and I know what to do.'" (19:38 | April Simpkins) "I want people to feel comfortable seeking help and support for mental health challenges and mental illness." (24:11 | April Simpkins) Connect with April Simpkins: https://www.aprilsimpkins.com/mental-health-advocate https://www.instagram.com/aprils_hr/ https://www.nami.org https://www.thedeanslist.me/award   Connect with Nesha:  Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/neshapai/ Youtube | https://www.youtube.com/@neshapai1480/videos Buy a copy of Nesha's book, Overcoming Ordinary Obstacles: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1943070741?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_KEGQ1539QQ5N8Z8XHRNC Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm  

“We women operate the best when we feel the best. When you've put this amazing outfit on that makes you feel amazing, this is when you become magnetic, and this is when you become unstoppable,” shares Tali Kogan, Chicago-based premier fashion stylist, empowerment coach and founder of Tel Aviv Couture. Fifteen years ago, Tali was an overweight accountant wearing dark, baggy clothes to hide her unhappiness. When she began to change her physical appearance, she stepped into her full feminine power and her entire life transformed. Now she empowers other women to shine authentically through her styling process, ‘calling forth the Queen'.  Women often prioritize taking care of others over themselves. Especially when so many women are stay at home moms or are working remotely, they may think there is no reason to dress up. However, with a small mindset shift, you can begin to see every day as a special occasion and a reason to put your best self forward. Tali explains that there are no real rules in fashion and that it is not even about the specific outfit or the cost. All that matters is how that outfit makes you feel about yourself. Her tips include playing around in your closet for inspiration, topping literally any outfit with a fabulous blazer, building a capsule wardrobe, and taking photos of yourself in each outfit for reference. She also recommends finding your personal crown, whether it be a sparkly necklace, specific shoes, or in her case, glasses, because a Queen should never be without her crown.  If you are wanting to change your life and embrace the full potential of your feminine power, start with your wardrobe! When you feel beautiful and great about yourself, you can accomplish anything. Visit Tali's website linked below to take the 3 minute Style Persona Quiz and begin your transformation. Quotes: “It's more than styling, it's empowering women through fashion.” (4:40 | Tali) “That's what I do. I call forth the queen in you. Because we women, we all are queens.” (7:05 | Tali)  “We women operate the best when we feel the best. When you've put this amazing outfit on that makes you feel amazing, this is when you become magnetic, and this is when you become unstoppable.” (8:06 | Tali) “It's way beyond the clothing. It's really not about that outfit, and it doesn't even matter how much it costs. It's about what that outfit does to you.” (9:30 | Tali) “There are no rules in fashion.” (13:00 | Tali) “The hottest trend in life is the trend that brings you joy.” (13:06 | Tali) “Once you know your style persona, your shopping and styling experience become a lot more effortless.” (18:01 | Tali) Connect with Tali Kogan: https://www.telavivcouture.com/style-persona-quiz/ https://www.telavivcouture.com/25-capsule-wardrobe-essentials/ https://sweetdomechicago.com/ https://www.instagram.com/talikogan/ Connect with Nesha:  Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/neshapai/ Youtube | https://www.youtube.com/@neshapai1480/videos Buy a copy of Nesha's book, Overcoming Ordinary Obstacles: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1943070741?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_KEGQ1539QQ5N8Z8XHRNC Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm  

“That's what I call the Paris effect. You were in Paris, and you changed,” shares Edith de Belleville, native Parisian, official Paris tour guide, University professor, and published author. Edith spent many years as an attorney before deciding at the age of 50 to return to university for her official tour guide license. Now, she shares her love of Paris and its fascinating history with tourists in French, Spanish, and English. Deeply inspired by Parisian women of the past, Edith wrote her first book, in French, entitled The Beautiful Rebels of Paris ("Belles et Rebelle"  Editions du 81). This was followed by her second book, written in English, about her Paris memoir "Parisian Life, Adventures in the City of Light".  Edith is one of many trailblazing women making a name for herself in the world of entrepreneurship. She did not let her age or any doubts get in the way of her dreams and wholeheartedly believes that people do not necessarily need a degree to succeed - just look at Coco Chanel! As a Parisian woman, Edith loves sharing the history of her city with tourists and watching how Paris changes each person who visits. She explains to Nesha that ‘entrepreneur' itself is a French word, derived from the name of a brave knight. The modern meaning traces back all the way to the 18th century and denotes a person who takes risks with their money and ideas. Although ‘entrepreneur' has French origins, the French approach entrepreneurship differently than Americans, making marketing her books a bit more challenging for Edith. She shares that even just telling people about her book could be interpreted as bragging and that for the French subtlety is key. Many women are visiting France for their “Emily in Paris” moment and Edith is happy to share with them an inside look at what life is like for a native Parisian woman. Paris is a magical city with a rich history. And as Nesha recently discovered, deep ties to entrepreneurship. Take a note from Coco Chanel, believe in your dreams, be yourself, do what you like, and you too can be successful.  Quotes: “Lesson number one, do what you like and be authentic.” (8:42-8:46 | Edith) “You don't need to have a degree… you can succeed, because Chanel did and she had absolutely no degrees, nothing.” (9:30-9:43 | Edith)  “That's what I call the Paris effect. You were in Paris, and you changed.” (14:04-14:09 | Edith) “I will be successful when my book is well known in America. Because for Europeans, the USA is the top of the top in business.” (28:06-28:16 | Edith) “Believe in your dreams.” (30:13-30:14 | Edith) Connect with Edith de Belleville:  Website | https://www.edithdebelleville.com/ Parisian Life, adventures in the City of Light | https://www.amazon.com/Parisian-Life-Adventures-City-Light/dp/1667831984/ref=sr_1_1? Connect with Nesha:  Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/neshapai/ Youtube | https://www.youtube.com/@neshapai1480/videos Buy a copy of Nesha's book, Overcoming Ordinary Obstacles: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1943070741?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_KEGQ1539QQ5N8Z8XHRNC Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm  

“I was trying so hard to be who I thought other people wanted me to be. I spent so much energy wanting to be accepted or wanting to look cool or look successful, but that wasn't authentic,” explains R. Michael Anderson, serial software entrepreneur, author, leadership coach, and speaker with advanced degrees in psychology and neuroscience. Michael went from being a self-proclaimed ‘bad leader' to quite literally writing the book on leadership mindset. Learning how to be a more effective and authentic leader was life changing for Michael, and now he aims to help other leaders put their egos aside and overcome obstacles. Michael's first foray into leadership found him with a successful small business and unhappy employees. Although he was successful from a money standpoint, he did not understand at the time what it really meant to be a leader. He became easily frustrated with his employees and was unable to put aside his ego. Things got so intense with his employees that one even assaulted him after an argument. He knew something needed to change, and it all clicked into place when he began studying for his Masters in Spiritual Psychology. Understanding why people behave the way they do opened the door for Michael to learn how to know, like, and trust himself, and become a more impactful leader in the process.  Becoming a more effective and authentic leader requires personal growth. If you do not take the time to get to know yourself better and improve your mindset, it will be much harder to manage your employees without ego getting in the way.  Quotes: “I was achieving my goals, but it was like I was getting away from happiness.” (7:35-7:38 | R. Michael)  “Up until then, I thought leadership was just getting a bunch of to-dos in and passing them out. And if people didn't get them done as fast or as well as I thought, I would just get frustrated and angry.” (7:55-8:03 | R. Michael) “I was trying so hard to be who I thought other people wanted me to be. I spent so much energy wanting to be accepted or wanting to look cool or look successful, but that wasn't authentic.” (9:46-9:58 | R. Michael) “I teach leadership mindset because that's what moved the needle for me. And I see so many other leaders struggling with the same.” (11:36-11:43 | R. Michael) “I'm a big believer in self compassion.  I know we can get frustrated and things, but your ego is just doing what you've trained it to do.” (20:30-20:37 | R. Michael) “All poor leadership is when people are in their ego.” (21:40-21:44 | R. Michael) “As you grow as a person, you grow as a leader.” (23:24-23:26 | R. Michael) Connect with R. Michael Anderson: Website | https://rmichaelanderson.com/   Connect with Nesha:  Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/neshapai/ Youtube | https://www.youtube.com/@neshapai1480/videos Buy a copy of Nesha's book, Overcoming Ordinary Obstacles: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1943070741?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_KEGQ1539QQ5N8Z8XHRNC Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm  

“Even as a young person, I was in rooms where I never thought I would be. So I said, ‘If I can do this, I bet other students can also do it',” shares Meredith Dean, founder of The Deans List, a Charlotte-based digital branding and career consulting agency focused on building a strong community of empowered individuals. Meredith started The Dean's List as a side hustle while working a full-time job with Levine Children's Hospital and has recently moved to running her business full-time. Now, she empowers entrepreneurs of primarily female and minority owned small businesses to make their dreams come true. Although it was a difficult decision for Meredith to leave her job with the children's hospital that she truly loved, she found her calling in helping empower other young, female, and minority entrepreneurs. Many people have great business ideas, but fear or lack of business knowledge keep them from pursuing anything. This is where Meredith steps in to help take that fear out of the equation. She helps people get up and running with everything they need to not only create a digital brand, including a professional website and a strong social media presence, but to also be able to run it themselves afterward.  There are many obstacles to running a business. And they can keep some people from ever venturing into entrepreneurship in the first place. If these obstacles sound familiar to you, consider bringing on someone like Meredith to help you get started without all the stress.  Quotes: “I started getting all these different internships, even as a young person, I was in rooms where I never thought I would be. So I said, ‘If I can do this, I bet other students can also do it'.” (7:16-7:26 | Meredith) “What is your life? Let's put that online and make sure that you shine in that way.” (12:56-13:00 | Meredith) “It's great that I can get them started, but I want them to feel very competent in holding their own brand and doing things for their own brand going forward.” (13:56-14:04 | Meredith) “If you want to grow, the only way you're going to do it is through Instagram reels.” (14:47-14:53 | Meredith)  “Create more than you consume.” (21:11-21:13 | Meredith) Connect with Meredith Dean: https://www.meredithdean.com/ https://www.thedeanslist.me/ https://www.instagram.com/merenator/ https://www.instagram.com/mydeanslist/   Connect with Nesha:  Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/neshapai/ Youtube | https://www.youtube.com/@neshapai1480/videos Buy a copy of Nesha's book, Overcoming Ordinary Obstacles: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1943070741?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_KEGQ1539QQ5N8Z8XHRNC Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm  

“With a PR team, you don't only look at media outlets. You look at other stakeholders that you're trying to reach in other ways that they get their other media or their news, and what are other creative ways that we can reach them that don't call for a paid advertisement,” explains Brittney Bogues, serial entrepreneur and founder of Bogues Group. Brittney decided to open her own consulting firm after noticing a gap in marketing and branding for athletes and falling in love with PR. Now, her firm provides PR, marketing, and branding services for clients from all backgrounds including athletes, CEOs, healthcare professionals, and many others.  As a woman of color well versed in entrepreneurship, Brittney is no stranger to overcoming obstacles. Additionally, Brittney had a personal obstacle to face as the daughter of a famous basketball star. She wanted to make sure that her small business was truly her own success and not something that was associated with her father. Brittney has learned a lot about what works and what doesn't when it comes to an effective PR strategy; and she shares some of her tips, along with some common mistakes she has noticed other businesses making. Her biggest tip is simply to pay attention to your local news stations and stay up to date on what is current in order to ensure you are always pitching relevant stories. Entrepreneurs face many challenges, and regardless of industry, everyone has their own personal obstacles to overcome. With the right PR strategy, you can take your business to the next level. If you are wanting to improve your business' branding, be sure to check out the Complete Brand Builder Workbook linked below.  Quotes: “The fun thing about having a consulting firm is that we get to work with all types of clients.” (3:34-3:39 | Brittney) “A lot of businesses should really focus and listen first to their current and local news stations.” (9:10-9:18 | Brittney) “With a PR team, you don't only look at media outlets. You look at other stakeholders that you're trying to reach in other ways that they get their other media or their news, and what are other creative ways that we can reach them that don't call for a paid advertisement.” (13:31-13:46 | Brittney) “Things that go national, it all starts from a local perspective. People think that everything starts national, it actually is the opposite.” (15:08-15:16 | Brittney) Connect with Brittney Bogues:  Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/brittbogues Website | https://boguesgroup.com/ LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittneybogues/   The Complete Brand Builder Workbook | https://boguesgroup.com/workbook-and-guides/   Connect with Nesha:  Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/neshapai/ Youtube | https://www.youtube.com/@neshapai1480/videos Buy a copy of Nesha's book, Overcoming Ordinary Obstacles: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1943070741?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_KEGQ1539QQ5N8Z8XHRNC Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm  

“This is your one life. And if you're not enjoying what you're doing, your clients are going to feel that, whoever you work with is going to feel that. So let's see how good we can let it get,” shares Amy Pocsik, owner of Bold Moves Coaching and Women's Business League, a national community for women entrepreneurs. Amy spent a decade working as a CPA, but after going on maternity leave, she knew she did not want to go back to her old position. She felt a calling to do more with her skills and had a large desire to help women small business owners succeed. When Amy realized that there was no network for women in entrepreneurship, she decided to build one herself. Women small business owners face unique challenges. Amy created the Women's Business League to help other women entrepreneurs with overcoming obstacles such as generating enough income to support their families, implementing healthy boundaries, and designing a business that is fully in alignment with the life they want to live. Success is much more achievable when you are surrounded by a supportive community. As a coach, Amy encourages her clients to build their business alongside a steady income source and to be very intentional about how the business is going to support their desired lifestyle.  Life is too short to not enjoy what you are doing. If you are not enjoying your day to day, the people you work with, including your clients, are going to take notice. So, if you feel called to create a business, take a chance and invest in building the life you want.  Quotes: “My mission is really to empower women to live a life of impact.” (10:25-10:32 | Amy) “When you're creating a business, it's really important to be intentional that this business is going to support the life you want to live.” (14:05-14:12 | Amy) “The thing I work at continually is aligning and making sure that how I'm spending my moments, my days, my weeks, is in alignment with the life that I want to live.” (15:38-15:50 | Amy) “No one achieves success on their own.” (15:55-15:57 | Amy) “We need to invest in ourselves at the level that we want others to invest in us.” (16:38-16:42 | Amy)  “I'm a big fan of building a business alongside a steady stream of income.” (22:30-22:35 | Amy) “This is your one life. And if you're not enjoying what you're doing, your clients are going to feel that, whoever you work with is going to feel that. So let's see how good we can let it get.” (23:31-23:45 | Amy) “If you're still doing what you did pre-pandemic and wondering why it's not working, it's because the entire world of marketing has changed.” (25:46-25:51 | Amy) Connect with Amy Pocsik: Website | https://bold-moves.com/ Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/amypocsik/ LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/amypocsik/ Connect with Nesha:  Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/neshapai/ Youtube | https://www.youtube.com/@neshapai1480/videos Buy a copy of Nesha's book, Overcoming Ordinary Obstacles: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1943070741?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_dp_KEGQ1539QQ5N8Z8XHRNC Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm  

The path to finding your place as an entrepreneur rarely looks like a straight line. Kiley Peters started her first small business, Brainchild when she was 30, before making a pivot several years later driven by her evolving vision. The door that was Brainchild closed so that Kiley could open the door wide open on her current business, RAYNE IX.  Kiley and RAYNE IX help women small business owners build businesses that are not only successful but in alignment with their personal goals as well. The combining of personal goals to professional goals is what sets Kiley apart Through a monthly membership and also a series of in person workshops, Kiley and her team create a community of hard working women who understand the struggles and the joys of small business ownership.  Kiley Peters joins host Nesha Pai to talk about understanding strengths and weaknesses, and building a team that supports those dynamics. Kiley also talks about the importance of creating safe spaces that are exclusively female, and how her group, the 100 Collective, supports women in a genuine and encouraging environment. No mean girls allowed. Find out more about RAYNE IX on Instagram at @rayneix or online at RAYNEIX.com. Connect with Kiley Peters on Instagram at @kileypeters or online at kileypeters.com, and on LinkedIn.

Conventional paths to "success" can often look the same: go to school, get the degree, get the job, and (if you're a woman) get the husband and kids at a certain age. But what if we could let go of society's expectations of us and its predetermined paths? What if we could break free of the boundaries of “having to be liked?” What if we could… give less fucks? Today's guest on Piece of the Pai is Gianna Biscontini, the author of “Fuckless: A Guide to Wild, Unencumbered Freedom” and a Board-Certified Behavioral Analyst. Gianna joins host Nesha Pai for a fun and refreshing talk about living with joy and fulfillment without feeling guilt or being bound by traditional expectations of women. Gianna speaks passionately about how the unconscious expectations innately placed around us force us to “give fucks” about things we shouldn't be… giving a fuck about.  Connect with Gianna online at giannabiscontini.com. You can buy her book, “Fuckless” here.

At the highest levels of achievement, the payoffs of all your talent and hard work can be incredible. The dangers of the uncompromising drive for perfection, however, can be full of danger and pitfalls.  Our guest today on Piece of the Pai is Julian Reeve, the former musical director of the red-hot Broadway musical Hamilton, is also the founder of Perfect Equilibrium, a coaching and methodology service that works with high-achieving creatives and entrepreneurs.  After conducting a performance of Hamilton in San Francisco one evening, Julian fell victim to a heart attack. After recovering, it was clear to Julian that this incident was a direct result of his unrelenting pursuit of not only excellence, but also his perfectionism. Fortunately for Julian (and for us), the heart attack helped Julian realign his priorities and his definition of success. Julian joins host Nesha Pai for a discussion about the danger of burnout, particularly for high achieving people. Julian describes the events leading up to his heart attack, and how he's been able to replace his need for achievement with a desire for equilibrium.

There's very few times where we as entrepreneurs won't face some form of fear. Perhaps it's the fear of stepping into the unknown of small business ownership, maybe it's fear of rejection of proposals, or usually it's the far-too-familiar imposter syndrome that haunts so many. Fortunately for us, today's guest allows us to recognize fear, acknowledge it, and make fear "our homeboy." Judi Holler is the author of Fear is My Homeboy, as well as a motivational speaker and business coach who has worked with clients from Ford to Sprint to Marriott and many more in between. Judi has coached high-level excutives and their teams to bring their best to the table, using her high-energy dynamic approach to her business, her own personality and life. Judi Holler joins host Nesha Pai for a candid discussion about many of the common behaviors and patterns that Judi seems holiding so many back, including the aforementioned imposter syndrome. Judi also discusses her experiences being a keynote speaker presenting for hundreds of people at a time, as well as one of her most formative experiences: dropping out of Chicago's famed Second City improv group. Connect with Judi Holler online at judiholler.com. Purchase Judi's book, Fear is My Homeboy, here.

Let's face it: the higher you climb towards your personal and professional goals, the more leadership becomes an essential skill. The ability to create a collective will from separate parts and focus it towards a singular goal is not easy, and it must be earned. Today's guests on Piece of the Pai have decades of experience helping coach leaders and visionaries from some of the world's most successful companies. Dan Tocchini and Adrian Koehler are co-founders of Take New Ground, an executive leadership consulting and coaching firm based in Los Angeles and Idaho. In their time together, Dan and Adrian have been bringing a no-BS approach to their coaching for executives at Nike, ESPN, Disney and more. They focus on cutting to the core of issues not just with systems, but the leaders themselves. In their words, they take "leadershit to leadership." Dan and Adrian join host Nesha Pai for a discussion about the philosophy of leadership. The pair also talk about founding Take New Ground after Adrian saw Dan present at a conference, and building a professional relationship that has proven to be a winning formula. Connect with Take New Ground online at takenewground.com. Follow Dan Tocchini on LinkedIn and Instagram. Follow Adrian Kohler on LinkedIn and Instagram. Listen to Dan and Adrian's podcast, The Naked Leadership Podcast, here.

It's the unique vision that sets any great entrepreneur apart from the crowd. Oftentimes, that vision is born through the individual experiences of that person, and shape them in ways both big and small. For Britnye Shore, founder and CEO of The Bardot, her entrepreneurial vision was molded during her time working in a series of salons and wedding planning companies. Through those first-hand experiences, Britnye discovered her passion for helping support women in creating the most perfect vision for their own big day. Britnye Shore joins host Nesha Pai on today's episode of Piece of the Pai to talk about her path from working small and uncomfortable salons to launching a beauty and experience based mobile salon. Britnye discusses how she founded The Bardot, and the evolution of the business into its "2.0" phase. She also talks with Nesha about slowing down during the pandemic and spending time on the farm which helped her recalibrate her vision for what's next. 

Sometimes entrepreneurship runs in the family. That's certainly the case with Khaleel Loyd, the co-founder, CEO and big brother to the three Loyd brothers that make up Loyd Visuals. Founded in Charlotte in 2016, Loyd Visuals creates boutique video content for promotion, documentary and commercial clients, working with Fortune 100 companies such as Air BnB and Honeywell.  Like many entrepreneurs, Khaleel Loyd had to find himself and his passion while working a more traditional 9-5 job, data consulting and healthcare in Khaleel's case. It was during this time that Khaleel and his brothers began to hone their creative skills and identify their passions in visual design. It was soon after that the three founded Loyd Visuals and began making a name for themselves. Khaleel Loyd joins host Nesha Pai for a discussion about his work with Lloyd Visuals, the dynamics of running a business with family, and the power of relationships. Khaleel talks about how the business came together, the unique roles of each of his brothers, and his philosophy of business. Khaleel also gives a poignant and thoughtful answer when asked how he defines success.

It takes years of experience to be able to orchestra a six-course meal at a high level. It takes even longer to be able to do it as a small business owner. Doing it all as a woman in a male-dominated industry requires a special talent. Enter Tillie Kerna of Chef Tillie, a private and boutique chef who travels all over the world to bring her clients the freshest and most innovative meals. Thanks to an upbringing in the rural Pacific northwest, Chef Tillie began hunting, fishing and foraging her own food when she was very little. With no mainstream restaurants down the street, her and her family flourished by trapping game, picking their own huckleberries and cooking with a wood stove. She quickly learned the importance of food, nurtrition and the importance of locally sourced food way before it was trendy. Today, Chef Tillie is a certified nutritionist, as well as one of Jamie Oliver's Food Revolution Ambassadors, in addition to her chef and business owner duties. Chef Tillie joins host Nesha Pai on today's episode of Piece of the Pai to discuss Chef Tillie's journey from a young woman learning baking from her mom to being a private chef for celebrities around the world. Chef Tillie talks about her youth and what she learned from having such a personal connection to her food. She also discusses some of the challenges she's faced in business, what advice she would give to upcoming chefs, as well as breaking myths about the "celebrity chef." Find Chef Tillie online at cheftillie.com. Follow her on Instagram at @cheftillie, and on Twitter at @cheftilliek. Find her on Facebook here.

Operating with a low battery is a space that Desmond Wiggan rarely finds himself in. Desmond knows the power of having a full charge at all times, which is why he founded Battery Xchange, a service that allows you to rent batteries to power your devices on demand and on the go.  An entrepreneur through and through, Desmond's education took him to the next level while studying for his Master's degree in Asia. It was his experience there being exposed to high technology that influenced him to start Battery Xchange. Desmond Wiggan sits down with host Nesha Pai in today's episode of Piece of the Pai to talk about Battery Xchange and his role as an entrepreneur. Desmond talks about how his time in Asia gave him a new perspective on technology, his entrepreneurial influences, and what he sees as his vision for Battery Xchange. Imagine a world, where there were mobile "take the charger with you" charging stations everywhere! Connect with Battery Xchange online at batteryxchange.co and on Instagram at @batteryxchange_. Follow Desmond on Instagram at @worldwidewiggs_.

One sign of a great entrepreneur is success across multiple industries. That definitely describes Jayme Valo, co-owner of Valoie skincare along with her husband, Nick. Jayme was a leader in the automotive industry when she was based in Idaho. When she moved to Charlotte a few years ago, she switched industries after she discovered that skincare was a shared passion she had with Nick. Using that inspiration, they self-taught themselves a new marketplace and introduced Valoie skincare products. Jayme Valo joins host Nesha Pai to talk about her transition from the automotive industry to the skincare industry, devloping a new product and brand in a competitive marketplace, and what makes Valoie unique (hint: it has to do with honey). Jayme also discusses the inherent stress of beauty standards, the compounding effect of social media, and how they influence her approach to business. She also gives her best advice to new entrepreneurs, shares her vision for the future of her business, and also gives her definition of success. Connect with Valoie online at Valoie.com. Follow them on Instagram at @ValoieSkincare. Follow Jayme personally on Instagram at @JaymeValo.

Fashion designer Daniel Gonzalez designs boutique ready-to-wear clothing for the "powerful, chic, artistic woman, a woman who many look to for answers and inspiration." Daniel's timeless and classic designs have found a home in Charlotte, as he opened Daniel Gonzalez Designs in 2019.  Daniel Gonzalez and host Nesha Pai talk in today's episode of Piece of the Pai about how Daniel found fashion design through his first love, ballroom dancing. Daniel speaks about his upbringing in Columbia, South America, and how his mother's fondness of art, fashion and design helped inspire and guide him through his own interest. Daniel also talks about his creative process, the advantages and challenges of starting a business during a pandemic, and what pieces from Daniel Gonzalez Designs you should keep your eye on. Connect with Daniel Gonzalez Designs online at DanielGonzalezDesigns.com. Follow DGD on Instagram at @danielgonzalezdesigns.

Self-care is almost intrinsic to Rita Garnto. After spending 20 years working in trauma centers around the world, Rita became a licensed massage therapist after moving to Charlotte in 2004. Now she's using her love of care and teaching to help people directly through her business, Simple Self-Care by Rita. Rita Garnto talks with Nesha Pai about her journey through medicine, including studying in her home country of Canada, through working trauma centers in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. She also describes some of her missteps along the way that include battles with debt. Rita also discusses her own self-care routine, being a mom, and also gives listeners practical information about how they can manage stress and anxiety on a day-to-day basis. Connect with Rita online at simpleselfcare.net, on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube. Sign up for Rita's Self Care Weekly text message by texting "CHOCOLATES" to 71441.

Entrepreneurship requires a special kind of person, but that could be anyone from anywhere. That includes a young Gaurav "G" Patel, who immigrated to the US when he was just ten years old and knew no English. Today, at 38 years of age, G Patel is one of Raleigh's hardest-working and most well-known figures in the hospitality industry. G is the founder of the Eschelon Experiences hospitality group, co-founder of Social House Vodka,  and commercial real estate expert with CityPlat. Listen to today's episode of Piece of the Pai to hear G Patel talk to host Nesha Pai about a wide range of topics including how G was able to become an entrepreneur despite the cultural and language barriers of immigrating to the US at a young age. G also talks about what success means to him (hint: it's not measured in awards or recognition), what motivates him each day, and the irreplaceable value of experience. Connect with G on LinkedIn, Twitter and Instagram. Visit his website at gpreneur.me. Visit City Plat at cityplat.com and Eschelon Experiences at eschelongexperiences.com

Being a mother is always hard work, and often very thankless. That can lead to plenty of internal struggles that moms deal with on a daily basis. Fighting these battles can feel like you're trying to slay a dragon! Slay Like a Mother is the title of the book written by today's guest Katherine Wintsch. In addition to being an author, Katherine is the founder and CEO of The Mom Complex, a consulting company working with some of the world's biggest brands (such as Walmart, J&J and Chobani) to create better products and services for mothers. Katherine's sought after research on women and mothers has been featured by the Today Show, New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and Working Mother Magazine. Katherine Wintsch joins host Nesha Pai to talk about where and when you find your dragon, and how you slay it. Katherine also discusses the many traumas mothers face (both "Capital T" and "Lowercase T"), why they're valid and what to do about them. Find out more about Katherine: https://www.facebook.com/SlayLikeaMother/ https://www.slaylikeamother.com https://momcomplex.com/team/ https://www.instagram.com/slaylikeamother/ https://katherinewintschblog.com

Did you know 40% of Americans who make $200k or more live paycheck to paycheck? Today's guest on Piece of the Pai knows one of the most important life skills people can learn early is financial literacy. George Kroustalis is a finance expert and author who left a job with one of the country's biggest banks to become a financial advisor, mentor and published author. George works with entrepreneurs and young adults to help create strong money habits as early as possible by showing them the foundations of saving and building wealth.  George joins Nesha on today's episode of the podcast to talk about his journey from the big banks to entrepreneurship, what some of the biggest money mistakes he sees are, tips and fundamentals that every young investor should know, and his new book, Secrets to Becoming a Financial Badass. Click here to get your copy of George's book Secrets to Becoming a Financial Badass.

Over the past eight years, Page Fehling has built a profile in Charlotte as the anchor of Good Day Charlotte, a morning news show that Fehling helped make a top ranked program of its kind. Audiences were drawn to her larger-than-life personality and endearing relatability. However, in 2021 Page made the decision to leave the career in TV she had known for more than 15 years to become an entrepreneur. On today's episode of Piece of the Pai, host Nesha Pai sits down with Page to to talk about her big jump into small business ownership. Page talks about her rigorous TV work schedule which included wakeup calls at 1:30 am, and how the effect that had on her family life made her consider the change. Page also acknowledges the efforts of her husband, Jake, who helps bring the stability needed to make everything work. Find Page Fehling on Instagram at @pagefehling, or at pagefehling.com.

Host Nesha Pai has a profound respect for people who are overcoming ordinary obstacles (so much so that she wrote a book with that title). Today's guest on Piece of the Pai overcomes obstacles both ordinary and extraordinary, and is able to not only succeed but come out strong on the other side. Natasha Hemmingway is a sales coach, mother and a devoted person of faith. Her faith and resilience are what helped her overcome the loss of her first son during pregnancy, as well as a shift from pharmaceutical sales to entrepreneurship. Natasha joins Nesha on today's episode to talk about facing up to those challenges, the profound importance of faith, and why every business owner needs to sharpen sales skills. Natasha has created a special offer for the POTP audience: Access to Module 1 of Hello Clients, Hello Cash for free and an exclusive $300 off the premium course at this link: https://natashahemmingway.com/pieceofpai Offer Code: PIECEOFPAI for $300 off of the premium course     Follow Natasha at @NatashaHemmingway on social media, and find her and her exclusive sales coaching courses online at NatashaHemmingway.com. 

Entrepreneurs come from all different places, and the inspiration for a great business idea can come from anywhere. Today's guest on Piece of the Pai is Tiffany Marino, owner of Confetti Castle, a Charlotte-based company that specializes in creating fun and unique balloon designs for parties, events and more. Tiffany wasn't always an entrepreneur. She began her career in the pharmaceutical sales industry, before a relocation from Nashville to Charlotte forced her hand. She started Confetti Castle in 2019 and has since become the go-to designer for clients such as The Carolina Panthers and Spectrum Center.  Tiffany talks to host Nesha Pai about her journey to entrepreneurship from pharma sales, not knowing anything about balloons before starting her business, and how she approaches leadership with her team. Find out how Tiffany overcame not knowing anything about balloons to becoming one of the country's top experts! Visit Confetti Castle online at theconfetticastle.com, or find them on Instagram at @confetticastle.

Few people have known host Nesha Pai for as long as today's guest, Anna Roop White. Anna and Nesha became friends in kindergarten and stayed in touch through the years as both have grown into successful entrepreneurs. Anna joins Nesha on today's episode of Piece of the Pai to talk about her business, Rest & Heal, a curated care package company. Anna also talks about her journey to entrepreneurship after a career in investment banking, and the bouts with burnout that led to her exploring small business ownership. Order your own curated care package from Rest & Heal at restandheal.com.  

There's nothing more that Nesha Pai loves than a female business owner succeeding in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Today's guest on Piece of the Pai knows that world as well as anyone. Katie Schindler is the owner of Fine Grit, a custom cabinet and furniture shop based in Charlotte, NC. Since 2015, Katie has been creating bold, original new designs for her clients based on their unique visions. Katie's work can be seen in Charlotte at establishments like The Waterman, Lilbelle, Selenite Beauty, and The Golden Carrot in Atherton Mill. Katie joins Nesha on Piece of the Pai to talk about her own vision as a business owner in her industry, the challenges of working in a traditionally male-dominated field, and what some of her favorite projects are. Connect with Katie and Fine Grit on Instagram at @fine.grit and on her website, finegritclt.com.

Lindsey Regan Thorne, beauty maven and lifestyle influencer in Charlotte has reached a mass following from starting a very organic blog when blogging was a new thing and social media was a baby. LRT, as she is affectionately known, turned her career of interior design into creating works of art on women through make up and hair styling.  Her biggest WHY is that she loves making women feel confident and beautiful and her encounter with a fan who had breast cancer changed her life. Listen to this amazing entrepreneur, who I get to call friend, talk about how she and her partner pivoted during the pandemic to bring beauty to the masses and on a digital platform.

Lindsay Anvik was living in NYC and a business coach traveling the world and speaking to big audiences before a one-time charcuterie board made for a Charlotte non-profit changed her life. Listen to this fairly new entrepreneur talk about her success and the pain it has taken to get there. Her company, Babe & Butcher, is killing it and while it looks glamourous on the pages of a glossy magazine, Lindsay gets real with us. One thing we know for sure, is she loves what she does!

Dominique Sensabaugh is more than a NFL athlete's wife. She has taken her platform in her own hands and been on a fast track to support other wives, young athletes, all women, and entrepreneurs by sharing her talents, vision, and time and creating seats at her table. Listen on to learn more about the foundation she created with her husband, Coty, as well as her #DSLBInspired mission!

Melissa Herriott, an artist and interior decorator in Charlotte NC, has made a name for herself while working on her side hustle during her corporate America reign in the space of IT recruiting. She finally jumped the cliff and went out on her own full time. In this episode, we cover how to find balance as an entrepreneur, how and when Melissa made the decision to go out on her own, and what brings her the most joy in her work.

Toska Husted began her journey over 20 years ago in London, England when she became a graduate of the elite “Steiner” School of Beauty Therapy and Cosmetology, appointed by Queen Elizabeth II. Toska also holds a diploma in Beauty Culture, and received her diploma as a qualified Beautician from the Confederation of International Beauty Therapy and Cosmetology, which is internationally recognized in over 30 countries for its exceptionally high standards, advanced qualifications, and reputation for excellence. Toska’s is deemed one of the world’s best experts in facial skincare. Her philosophy that skincare should be prescriptive, customized and consistent, as well as her keen eye for detail, a deep understanding of the skin, and her intuitive nature are what makes her facials extraordinary. She has a client list that includes some of the most prominent A-list celebrities, like  Jennifer Lopez, Kim Kardashian West, Jennifer Aniston, Olivia Culpo  In this episode, we cover what Toska loves most about getting up everyday, her pandemic pivot to online consultations, and the advice she has for entrepreneurs 

Colleen Odegaard is an Emmy award winning broadcast journalist, TV host, certified life coach, video and media coach and the host of the Wake Up To Your Life podcast. She wants all of us to stop living on autopilot and “wake up” to creating richer, fuller lives through self awareness and mindfulness.   Colleen relates to her clients and listeners with her personal stories, a sense of humor and practical steps we can all take to create positive changes in our lives. Colleen is a recipient of the Dr. Maya Angelou Women Who Lead Excellence Award for her contributions to her profession and community.  And she has been given the Career Mastered Women’s Leadership in Action Award for her leadership and service.  Colleen also serves on the Board of Congregations for Kids, an organization that cares for children in foster care. Colleen is a wife and mother of two teenage boys.  She also has a spoiled rotten goldendoodle named Cali.  In this episode, we cover why it is not good to be on auto-pilot, the necessary things that need to happen to succeed at entrepreneurship, and why it is important to overcome fear in order to find and walk into your purpose.

Born in Detroit, Michigan, Shelly Henderson has called Charlotte home for 44 years. As co-founder of Henderson Properties along with her husband Phil, Shelly manages the full-service real estate company’s corporate culture and branding via content marketing and social media strategies. She also runs the company’s leadership development courses for employees. Previously, Henderson managed accounting, human relations, rental property management and maintenance services for the company. Henderson graduated from Appalachian State University in 1987 with a degree in elementary education. Prior to starting Henderson Properties, Henderson worked as an elementary and middle school teacher then pursued her dream of professional golfing for a year on the LPGA Futures Tour. She is a proud mother to Blake, 22, a senior at Hampden-Sydney College, and Grant, 20, a sophomore at the University of Alabama.  “Starting from Scratch: One Woman’s Pursuit of Family, Business and the American Dream” is her first book.   We talk about how Shelly pivoted in COVID and how she handled the crisis with her team, as well as her dream to play golf and about the reason for writing a book!

Fabi Preslar is the owner and president of SPARK Publications, a national, award-winning, independent publishing firm specializing in the design of niche magazines, special publications, and independently published books for print, digital, and interactive media. Her firm’s publications enhance credibility and distinction, enabling individuals and organizations to thrive and excel. Preslar has been honored as a 2020 FOLIO: Top Women in Media, was inducted into the 2019 North Carolina Women Business Owners Hall of Fame, and was awarded the 2018 First-Generation Family Business of the Year by the Charlotte Business Journal and 2017 Woman Business Owner of the Year by the National Association of Women Business Owners–Charlotte Chapter. Learn more at SPARKpublications.com and FabiPreslar.com.

Ole Mason Jar is a specialty line of menswear founded in Charlotte in 2013. Co-founder Bradley Rhyne brought a background in accounting and finance to the table, along with a passion for creating timeless, trusted men's clothing.  In today's episode of Piece of the Pai, host Nesha Pai talks to Brad about making the shift from the 9-5 world to entrepreneurship, the inspiration behind the brand, and how Bradley is shifting during the pandemic to open their first storefront in South End. Visit Ole Mason Jar at olemasonjar.com.