The Collective Corner with Elena Armijo

In this heartfelt episode, Elena Armijo welcomes pianist, writer, and coach Robert Kuang back to the show for a deeply grounding and expansive conversation on the powerful intersections between creativity, leadership, and the human need for care. Through personal stories and grounded insight, they explore how slowing down, honoring emotions, and reconnecting with the body are not luxuries, but essential foundations for innovation, emotional processing, and navigating change with intention and heart. Check out Elena's website to learn more about how she can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you. Together, they reflect on the creativity that often lies dormant beneath structured systems and the myth that only certain people are “creative.” Robert shares his journey from New York to Vancouver and how writing, music, and embodiment became lifelines in moments of transition. Elena offers reflections on the practices that help her stay grounded, including walks in nature and learning to sit with discomfort through meditation. Both speak to the importance of intentional self-care - not as luxury, but as necessity - for those holding space for others in turbulent times. Their conversation opens up fresh perspectives on navigating rapid change, emotional processing, and what it means to bring multidimensionality into leadership and life. Through stories of client work, cultural shifts, and inner realignments, Robert and Elena offer practical wisdom for creating space for intuition, joy, and resilience. This episode is an invitation to reconnect with the parts of ourselves that may have been left behind in the name of productivity. Whether facing uncertainty, creative stagnation, or simply longing for more meaning, this conversation reminds us that returning to the body, slowing down, and making space for joy are revolutionary acts of leadership.   Let's Get Social!  Want to hear more from Elena? Click here! Learn more about The C-Suite Collective Follow The C-Suite Collective on Instagram Connect with Elena on LinkedIn   Robert Kuang: Website  |  LinkedIn  |  Instagram  |  Podcast   This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram) Jo van Eeden, Project Manager

In this episode, Elena Armijo and Chelsea Rose Cotton explore the deep connections between nature, leadership, personal growth, and spiritual wisdom. Through reflection, they share how lessons from the natural world can reshape the way we understand interdependence, adaptability, and the essential need for embracing change. This conversation travels through outer landscapes and inner terrain, weaving in themes of grief, love, and transformation. Check out Elena's website to learn more about how she can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you. Elena and Chelsea explore the parallels between ecosystems and organizational systems - touching on the importance of collaboration, the inevitability of change, and the beauty of cyclical growth. They speak honestly about the fear that can accompany change and the opportunity to meet it with flexibility, resilience, and a willingness to release outdated ways of being. Their reflections offer clarity on how nature's wisdom can inform leadership rooted in harmony rather than control. Chelsea shares her personal journey with grief and the sacred practice of dreamwork, offering insight into the power of intuitive guidance during uncertain times. She speaks with tenderness about building inner safety, and how deepening connection to breath, stillness, and the body creates space for profound healing. Through this, she offers gentle reminders that even in chaos, sacredness is always within reach - and often begins with a single breath. This episode is a moving invitation to reclaim beauty, deepen our relationship with grief, and root ourselves in the magic of the present moment. Whether navigating personal uncertainty, collective grief, or quietly awakening to a new chapter, this conversation is a nourishing companion on the path home to self, community, and purpose.   Let's Get Social!  Want to hear more from Elena? Click here! Learn more about The C-Suite Collective Follow The C-Suite Collective on Instagram Connect with Elena on LinkedIn   Chelsea Rose Cotton: Website  |  LinkedIn  |  Instagram  |  Insight Timer   This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram) Jo van Eeden, Project Manager

In this episode, Elena Armijo sits down with Dr. Sonal Bhatia, a physician and former Pfizer executive, who is on an inspiring journey from the confines of Western medicine to a more holistic, integrated approach to health. With roots in Mexico City and a rich Indian heritage, Sonal's unique background informs her mission to activate the inner healing intelligence within each person, blending the best of Eastern and Western practices. Check out Elena's website to learn more about how she can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you. Dr. Bhatia reflects on early experiences with cultural diversity and discrimination, which fueled a deep passion for healing and advocating for those often overlooked in traditional medical systems. Her career began in patient care before shifting to pharmaceutical innovation, where she spearheaded initiatives addressing rare diseases. But a true transformation began when she discovered Transcendental Meditation and Ayurveda - two practices that reshaped her understanding of well-being, both personally and professionally. The conversation explores Sonal's vision for integrated wellness, where prevention and inner healing take center stage. She shares insights on bridging Western scientific advancements with Eastern holistic wisdom, emphasizing the power of balance. Her work in corporate wellness, including introducing mindfulness and meditation initiatives, highlights the tangible benefits of these practices in professional environments. At the heart of it all, she champions the idea of collective healing, encouraging personal health practices that extend beyond the individual, creating a ripple effect in communities and beyond. Drawing inspiration from her grandfather's healing traditions, Sonal sees her work as a continuation of a family legacy. Looking ahead to 2025, she envisions a movement of conscious health choices that contribute to a more connected, thriving world. This conversation is an invitation to explore a new relationship with well-being - one that aligns personal growth with a greater purpose.   Let's Get Social!  Want to hear more from Elena? Click here! Learn more about The C-Suite Collective Follow The C-Suite Collective on Instagram Connect with Elena on LinkedIn   Sonal Bhatia: Email   This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram) Jo van Eeden, Project Manager

In this powerful solo episode, Elena Armijo reflects on her personal experiences and insights as we step into 2025. From the warmth of family gatherings in New Mexico to the sobering realities of recent challenges in Los Angeles, she shares her perspectives on leadership, community, and resilience. Elena highlights three key pillars essential for transforming our approach to leadership in the new year: redefining community, embracing visionary leadership, and cultivating a community-centered mindset. Check out Elena's website to learn more about how she can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you. Elena shares how her rejuvenating holiday break with family in New Mexico reinforced the grounding power of tradition and connection. She recounts poignant moments with loved ones, including her spirited 96-year-old grandmother, emphasizing the importance of resilience and deep relationships in an ever-changing world. Drawing from her rich experiences in executive coaching and consulting, Elena explores the significance of visionary leadership, inclusivity, and community-driven mindsets in fostering a thriving culture. She encourages listeners to seek diverse perspectives and cultivate meaningful connections that drive growth and progress, even in times of uncertainty. In recent global events and societal shifts, Elena underscores the need for servant leadership rooted in empathy and collaboration. She challenges listeners to elevate their leadership practices and create environments where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. Reflecting on the state of the world - from natural disasters to political changes - she inspires us to stay present and adaptable, recognizing that the choices we make today shape the communities of tomorrow. This episode is a call to embrace hope and resilience while navigating the challenges ahead. Elena invites listeners to approach 2025 with openness, compassion, and a commitment to intentional community-building. Join her on this journey toward a more connected and harmonious future.   Let's Get Social!  Want to hear more from Elena? Click here! Learn more about The C-Suite Collective Follow The C-Suite Collective on Instagram Connect with Elena on LinkedIn   This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram) Jo van Eeden, Project Manager

In this enlightening episode, Elena sits down with professional coach Derek Mulhern to discuss the intricacies of personal growth, leadership, and the essential human connections that ground us, especially in tumultuous times. As we approach the end of the year and reflect on our journeys, Derek shares his unique insights on how to navigate the complexities of life, relationships, and leadership. Check out Elena's website to learn more about how she can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you. Derek's journey from agriculture to coaching has shaped his understanding of the significance of self-love and the necessity of slowing down. He shares his personal breakthrough, a realization that life isn't just about "sprinting" toward goals or "zoning out" in the chaos. He emphasizes the importance of being present and taking joy in the moments between our busy schedules. The conversation delves deeply into how we can cultivate more meaningful relationships, especially when faced with differing viewpoints. Derek emphasizes the importance of approaching conversations with empathy, curiosity, and love, promoting an environment of understanding and connection amidst division. As the year draws to a close, Elena and Derek delve into end-of-year reflection practices that inspire personal breakthroughs. They discuss the importance of reviewing the past year's experiences, asking introspective questions, and creating space for growth to uncover valuable lessons. The conversation touches on the liberating notion of defining one's professional role, especially for entrepreneurs and CEOs, with the invitation to challenge traditional job expectations.  With the holiday season approaching, Derek's heartfelt advice to "chill out" serves as a gentle reminder to find peace, be present, and acknowledge the love that persists even amidst challenges.    Let's Get Social!  Want to hear more from Elena? Click here! Learn more about The C-Suite Collective Follow The C-Suite Collective on Instagram Connect with Elena on LinkedIn   Derek Mulhern: Website  |  LinkedIn  |  Instagram  |  Facebook   This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram) Jo van Eeden, Project Manager

In this thought-provoking episode, Elena engages in a deep and insightful conversation with seasoned leadership coach Nephi Niven. Together, they unpack the intricacies of navigating hard conversations - those challenging but essential dialogues that arise in both professional and personal contexts. They explore the pressing issues facing today's executives, entrepreneurs, and organizations. Check out Elena's website to learn more about how she can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you. The episode offers a structured framework for approaching difficult conversations, emphasizing five key elements: clarity of purpose, self-awareness, shared agreement, vulnerability, and the importance of repair. Nephi shares his transformative journey from a thriving career in photography to becoming a leadership coach, demonstrating how coaching can empower leaders to cultivate compassionate and inclusive work environments. Nephi underscores the importance of approaching difficult conversations with clarity and purpose. He highlights the role of self-awareness and emotional intelligence as critical components for creating productive discussions. Understanding one's own emotional state, he explains, is key to setting the stage for a more constructive exchange. He also shares how establishing shared agreements at the outset of tough conversations can lay the foundation for respectful dialogue, reinforcing the necessity for vulnerability and courage when addressing conflicts. Nephi emphasizes the need for leaders to embrace difficult emotions and foster healthy conflict within their teams, especially during times of crisis. He advocates for a somatic, body-based approach to leadership development, and reminds us that humor and joy are vital tools in this process. The power of coaching and its profound impact on organizational culture and effectiveness are highlighted throughout the conversation. This empowering discussion equips leaders with essential skills while inspiring them to seek support and build more humane workplaces. Tune in to explore the vital intersection of leadership, emotional well-being, and the potential for transformative change within organizations.   Let's Get Social!  Want to hear more from Elena? Click here! Learn more about The C-Suite Collective Follow The C-Suite Collective on Instagram Connect with Elena on LinkedIn   Nephi Niven: Website  |  LinkedIn   This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram) Jo van Eeden, Project Manager

In this episode, Elena engages in a deep and thought-provoking conversation with Katherine Folk-Sullivan, a PCC-credentialed coach and certified trauma-informed coach. They explore the intricate dynamics of humility in effective leadership, the vital role it plays in fostering a culture of openness and growth within organizations, and the ongoing journey of personal and collective growth in the realm of anti-racism. Check out Elena's website to learn more about how she can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you. Katherine shares her transformative journey into coaching and her deep commitment to anti-racism work. What started as a personal exploration to address her own challenges evolved into a passion for guiding others through their journeys. She candidly reflects on the discomfort she experienced when stepping into the role of an anti-racism expert, confronting her self-perception in light of her colleagues' experiences. Her insights serve as a reminder that anti-racism is a continuous journey, urging all leaders - especially those from privileged backgrounds - to approach it with humility and an awareness of the spiritual costs of oppression. Katherine advocates for shifting the focus from binary conversations around racism to fostering personal relationships and cultural humility. She encourages listeners to practice open-heartedness and connection, even with those who hold opposing views, suggesting that true leadership involves recognizing our tendency to 'other' others and instead choosing to engage in meaningful dialogue. In today's polarized world, Katherine emphasizes the importance of nurturing personal relationships and fostering cultural humility. Her call for connection and dialogue serves as a powerful reminder of the role open-heartedness plays in bridging divides and cultivating understanding. This episode will leave you empowered and reflective, offering valuable insights into your own growth edges. Katherine's wisdom challenges us all to lead with humility and compassion in both our personal and professional lives. Don't miss this insightful episode, which encourages you to voice your leadership and take meaningful action within your communities.   Let's Get Social!  Want to hear more from Elena? Click here! Learn more about The C-Suite Collective Follow The C-Suite Collective on Instagram Connect with Elena on LinkedIn   Katherine Folk-Sullivan: Website  |  LinkedIn   This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram) Jo van Eeden, Project Manager

In this enlightening episode,  Elena speaks with Andrea Horton-Mericli, a dedicated diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) consultant. They delve into the critical importance of creating inclusive environments, the complexities of navigating biracial identities, and the transformative power of storytelling. Check out Elena's website to learn more about how she can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you. Andrea shares her personal journey as a biracial woman, the daughter of a Latina mother from Veracruz and a white Anglo father, and how her upbringing in diverse environments shaped her passion for DEI work. Both Andrea and Elena recount their experiences growing up in border towns, grappling with their identities while finding their place in a world that often requires strict categorization. They discuss how these biracial identities can serve as a superpower in bridging gaps between cultures and perspectives, highlighting the need for more spaces that celebrate this multifaceted heritage. The conversation also touches on Andrea's initiative, the "Diversifuse" podcast, which aims to amplify the voices of marginalized communities and advocate for resources to support them. As Andrea highlights contemporary issues such as neurodiversity, mental health, and the emotional needs of individuals in the current political climate, she emphasizes the significance of relatability and storytelling in fostering understanding. The episode culminates with a powerful vision for the future, as both hosts encourage listeners to consider the impact of their actions on future generations and the importance of role modeling behavior that promotes kindness, empathy, and inclusivity. This episode offers an inspiring exploration of identity, leadership, and the profound potential of storytelling to effect change. Whether you're a leader seeking to enhance your inclusive practices or an individual navigating your own experiences of belonging, this conversation promises to resonate and encourage reflection on the ways we all contribute to a more equitable world.   Let's Get Social!  Want to hear more from Elena? Click here! Learn more about The C-Suite Collective Follow The C-Suite Collective on Instagram Connect with Elena on LinkedIn   Andrea Horton-Mericli: Instragram  |  LinkedIn  |  Facebook  |  Website  |  Podcast  |  YouTube  |  X   This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram) Jo van Eeden, Project Manager

In this thought-provoking episode, Elena speaks with Antoni Mendezona and Max Potter, the co-founders of Digitelle, a digital marketing company for independent creatives and nonprofits in the performing arts. They delve into the importance of authenticity in business and highlight the numerous benefits of authenticity in business, such as building trust, fostering creativity, and enhancing customer loyalty. Check out Elena's website to learn more about how she can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you. Antoni and Max share their inspiring journey to co-founding Digitelle, merging their passion for music and marketing. Their shared vision for the company revolves around establishing a strong ethical framework, prioritizing flexibility, and advocating for empowerment within the performing arts industry. Valuable advice is shared on adopting a mission-driven approach, serving customers first, and investing in authentic communication strategies. They emphasize the importance of focusing on serving your audience or customers better, not just yourself, and ensuring your marketing strategy aligns with your values and vision. The episode serves as a blueprint for leaders and entrepreneurs seeking to create purpose-driven organizations that prioritize innovation, connection, and sustainable growth. Antoni and Max also stress the importance of not cutting your marketing budget, especially in challenging times, and the need to be flexible, empathetic, and surround yourself with the right team. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a business leader, or simply someone looking to find your own authentic voice, this episode will inspire and motivate you to embrace your true self and create the change you wish to see in the world. Tune in to discover the transformative power of authenticity and advocacy in business.   Let's Get Social!  Want to hear more from Elena? Click here! Learn more about The C-Suite Collective Follow The C-Suite Collective on Instagram Connect with Elena on LinkedIn   Digitelle (Antoni Mendezona & Max Potter): Instragram  |  LinkedIn  |  Facebook  |  Website  | TikTok   This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram) Jo van Eeden, Project Manager

In this podcast episode, Elena Armijo speaks with Carolyn Swora, a leadership consultant, team coach, and author, about her journey into coaching and her focus on social justice and trauma-informed leadership. Carolyn shares her passion for working with leaders and organizations committed to social justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion, highlighting the importance of connecting with the body and nervous system as a leader. Check out Elena's website to learn more about how she can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you. Carolyn emphasizes the somatic aspects of leadership and transformation, discussing how the body stores emotional wounds and trauma that can impact cognitive and physical performance. She encourages leaders to listen to and partner with their nervous systems in order to regulate their states and show up more fully. Carolyn provides practical suggestions for individuals to explore somatic practices, such as community connection and grounding exercises. Ultimately, Carolyn's vision is for more people to understand the power of the nervous system and somatic wisdom, in order to address systemic challenges and create positive change in the world. She believes that by disseminating this knowledge widely, especially to the next generation, we can build the internal resources and collective capacity needed to make a difference. This podcast episode offers valuable insights and practical tips for leaders looking to incorporate somatic practices into their work.   Let's Get Social!  Want to hear more from Elena? Click here! Learn more about The C-Suite Collective Follow The C-Suite Collective on Instagram Connect with Elena on LinkedIn Carolyn Swora: Instragram  |  LinkedIn  |  YouTube  |  Website  |  Podcast | Amazon   This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram) Jo van Eeden, Project Manager

In this episode, Elena Armijo and Jason Frazzell dive deep into the concept of blind spots and how they affect our daily lives. Blind spots are not just limited to driving situations, but exist in all aspects of our lives, including communication, decision-making, and self-awareness. By understanding the psychological mechanisms behind blind spots, individuals can start recognizing and addressing them. Check out Elena's website to learn more about how she can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you. Jason shares his personal journey from a sales-focused career to becoming an executive coach and facilitator. He opens up about the challenges he faced when starting his own business and the need to separate his identity from the work. Jason also expresses his desire to delve deeper into men's work, exploring vulnerability, emotional expression, and the importance of men connecting with their spirituality and plant medicine. He envisions a world where men feel seen, heard, and validated, breaking free from societal pressure to conform to traditional masculine norms. Providing a thought-provoking conversation on blind spots, self-awareness, and the evolving landscape of identity and masculinity, this episode emphasizes the importance of creating a more inclusive and empowered world for individuals of all genders. Jason recommends resources such as the "Anti-Racism Daily" newsletter and books like "Blindspot: Hidden Biases of Good People" and "How to Be an Anti-Racist".   Let's Get Social!  Want to hear more from Elena? Click here! Learn more about The C-Suite Collective Follow The C-Suite Collective on Instagram Connect with Elena on LinkedIn Jason Frazzell: Instragram  |  LinkedIn  |  Facebook  |  Website  |  Podcast   This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram) Jo van Eeden, Project Manager

In this episode, Elena Armijo interviews Ned Hanlon, the president of AGMA (American Guild of Musical Artists) union, about leadership and the future of the arts industry. Ned shares his journey to union leadership, starting with his involvement in negotiating his contract with the Metropolitan Opera. He found his calling in the legal and negotiation side of union leadership and has been actively involved for the past 10 years. Check out Elena's website to learn more about how she can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you. The pandemic has served as a wake-up call for artists, making them realize the importance of taking care of each other through unions. Companies cannot always provide stability, and artists need to rely on collective action to protect their interests. Ned's goals as AGMA president are to build solidarity through alliances with other unions, empower artists to speak up, and protect them from retaliation. One of the key focuses of the union is diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. This is addressed both internally within the union and during contract negotiations with companies. By addressing these important issues, the union aims to create a safer environment for artists, tackling problems like harassment and discrimination. Ned sees his role as a facilitator rather than the sole leader. He believes in harnessing the collective power of union members and building consensus. Effective negotiations involve understanding all perspectives, finding common ground, and being willing to exert collective power if necessary. However, Ned emphasizes the importance of avoiding "scorched earth" tactics that can harm all parties involved. Looking to the future, Ned's hope is for the arts industry to survive its current difficulties. He wants all artists to feel empowered to improve their work conditions without fear, and he believes the union can play a crucial role in creating a safe and supportive environment for artists to speak up and advocate for themselves.   Let's Get Social!  Want to hear more from Elena? Click here! Learn more about The C-Suite Collective Follow The C-Suite Collective on Instagram Connect with Elena on LinkedIn Ned Hanlon: Instragram LinkedIn Facebook   This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram) Jo van Eeden, Project Manager

In this episode, Elena speaks with Brittany Cotton, an innovative leader in professional coaching. Brittany is the Head of Coaching at 7CTOs and also runs her own executive coaching business called Coach EXE. She shares how she stumbled into coaching after finishing her master's degree and feeling uncertain about pursuing a PhD program. Brittany talks about the fulfillment she found in coaching and how it allowed her to tap into something that was already inside her. She emphasizes that coaching is not about having all the answers, but rather supporting others to cultivate their own answers. Check out Elena's website to learn more about how she can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you. As the Head of Coaching at 7 CTOs, Brittany is responsible for creating leadership content and facilitating peer coaching groups. She discusses how her work focuses on helping tech leaders develop heart-based leadership skills in addition to technical skills. She also shares some trends she has noticed, highlighting that leaders are now more comfortable embracing discomfort and sitting with problems instead of running from them. Brittany offers advice on developing courage, encouraging leaders to step out of their comfort zones, embrace vulnerability, and learn from setbacks. She believes that small steps over time can lead to significant personal growth. She also emphasizes the importance of difficult conversations and sitting with uncertainty, as personal growth can have a profound impact on organizations. Brittany emphasizes the importance of personal growth in navigating professional challenges and global difficulties. She believes that leaders who prioritize their own development can bring about positive change in their companies from the inside out. She shares stories of clients who experienced unexpected transformations long after coaching ended. Overall, Brittany's holistic approach centers on the humanity of leaders, emphasizing the importance of personal growth over technical skills.   Let's Get Social!  Want to hear more from Elena? Click here! Learn more about The C-Suite Collective Follow The C-Suite Collective on Instagram Connect with Elena on LinkedIn   This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram) Jo van Eeden, Project Manager

In this final episode of 2023, Elena Armijo reflects on the year at The C-Suite Collective, the executive coaching company she founded, discussing the importance of slowing down in order to go fast. As a fast-paced leader, Elena realized that taking the time to ensure people were on board and understood expectations was crucial. Throughout the year, The C-Suite Collective intentionally focused on building strong foundations, including processes, values, and fostering community conversations. Check out Elena's website to learn more about how she can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you. Elena also shares her personal journey of working internally and from the inside out. She highlights the transformative power of working with a coach for an entire year, focusing on healing, boundaries, self-acceptance, and receiving support. By accepting herself more, Elena was able to effectively lead and serve others, encouraging them to also do their inner work. The company's commitment to inclusion and belonging was another key lesson learned in 2023. The C-Suite Collective explored new approaches, engaged in difficult conversations, and emphasized the importance of everyone's right to belong. They prioritized connection over conflict and disagreement, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment. Elena also emphasizes the significance of celebrating the journey, not just the end goals. With the guidance of her coach, she practiced daily self-appreciation and joy throughout December. This shift in mindset allowed her to find fulfillment in the process rather than solely focusing on achieving outcomes. Looking ahead to 2024, Elena plans to simplify her goals by narrowing them down to just five things. This strategic approach will allow her to fully immerse herself in each goal's journey and ensure their successful realization. Finally, Elena expresses deep gratitude for the support she has received from her family, partner, friends, colleagues, clients, and listeners. She wishes everyone a peaceful and restful end to 2023, while also encouraging them to embrace the possibilities that lie ahead in the new year. In summary, Elena shares the key lessons that guided her growth and The C-Suite Collective's development in 2023. These include the importance of slowing down, engaging in internal work, promoting inclusion, celebrating the journey, simplifying goals, and expressing gratitude. It has been a year of self-reflection, growth, and building a strong foundation for continued success.   Let's Get Social!  Want to hear more from Elena? Click here! Learn more about The C-Suite Collective Follow The C-Suite Collective on Instagram Connect with Elena on LinkedIn   This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram) Jo van Eeden, Project Manager

In this episode, Elena speaks with Nomsa Khalfani and Amy Moy, the co-CEOs of Essential Access Health, to discuss their unique approach to co-leadership and their vision for transforming organizational culture. Nomsa and Amy have a long history together, having worked side by side in senior leadership roles for the past 10 years. When the previous CEO left, the board made the groundbreaking decision to appoint Nomsa and Amy as co-CEOs, recognizing their strong partnership and dedication to the organization's mission. Check out Elena's website to learn more about how she can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you. As co-CEOs, Nomsa and Amy prioritize the well-being of their staff. They lead by example, practicing mutual support, flexibility, rest, and vulnerability. This shift in mindset and focus on staff wellness has resulted in a more trusting, safe, and humane organizational culture. They also emphasize inclusion, community health, and freedom for all. Through coaching, fair compensation, and involving staff in decision-making, they empower their team to make a meaningful impact. However, with this new style of leadership also come challenges. Nomsa and Amy stress the importance of being open to feedback, even when it's uncomfortable, and using it as an opportunity for self-reflection rather than defensiveness. They also recognize the need to embrace imperfection and allow for evolution in their leadership approach. To measure their success, Nomsa and Amy look at metrics such as staff retention, feedback from employees about feeling valued, and recommendations of the organization. They believe that by creating an empowering culture, they can support their staff in doing their best work and ultimately make a significant impact. Above all, Nomsa and Amy's vision for Essential Access Health is centered around respecting bodily autonomy and fundamental human rights and dignity for all. They believe that true freedom cannot exist as long as some individuals lack it. Their goal is to amplify voices and improve outcomes through courageous and pioneering leadership. Tune in to this enlightening episode to learn more about their journey and the transformative power of co-leadership.   Let's Get Social!  Want to hear more from Elena? Click here! Learn more about Essential Access Health Connect with Amy on LinkedIn. Connect with Nomsa on LinkedIn , Facebook and Instagram.   This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram) Jo van Eeden, Project Manager

Today, Elena talks with Retired Army Lieutenant Colonel, speaker, and author, Oakland McCulloch, about principles that can transform your leadership and your team.   Check out Elena's website to learn more about how she can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you.  Listen to their conversation here! How can we continue to grow as leaders? We've all heard the phrase, “leaders are readers,” and yes, reading is a huge part of growing. But this is not the only way we leaders can and should grow. Whether it's learning from other people, nourishing yourself, letting go of preconceived notions, or creating new avenues for growth, your development as a leader can take many forms. In fact, one of the more overlooked ways you can grow as a leader is by continuing to practice what you preach. After all, if you're not applying the principles you espouse to your own life, why should anyone else?   In her Weekly Coaching Tip, Elena shares three key ways you can focus on your personal leadership development, while strengthening your character at the same time. In her interview segment, she talks with Retired Lieutenant Colonel Oakland “Oak” McCulloch. With over 40 years of leadership experience and almost 25 years serving in the US Army, he is a leadership powerhouse. In this conversation, you'll be reminded of key leadership principles and learn new ones, like the brilliant 75% Rule that Oak learned from his father, how the environment you're in during interactions with your team can build trust, the importance of curiosity as a leader, why people bringing problems to your attention is actually a good sign, and more! They also discuss Oak's book, Your Leadership Legacy: Becoming the Leader You Were Meant to Be, and how it can impact leaders, regardless of their age or stage.   Let's Get Social!  Want to hear more from Elena? Click here!  Visit Oak's website to book him as a speaker and buy his book.  Connect with Oak on Instagram.  Follow him on LinkedIn!  Contact Oak on Facebook.  Learn more about Oak on YouTube.  Message him on X.  This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: John Biethan, President of Imagine Podcasting Sam De Santo, Creative Director Rye Taylor, Podcast Design Strategist & Producer Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Meg McCarley, Brand Designer & Social Media Manager Raejan Noh, Content Writer Jennifer Harshman, Content Writer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram)  

In this episode, Elena speaks with psychotherapist and coach, Claudine Chiarmonte, about leading holistically, living with integrity, and engaging in self-healing. Check out Elena's website to learn more about how she can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you. What does wholeheartedness mean as a leader? Being authentic as a leader and bringing all of who you are to the table can be difficult to put into practice. However, part of being wholehearted as a leader means cultivating authenticity and being open about the fact that you don't know everything. You have to be okay with making mistakes and being human. You're not the Terminator. In fact, one of the most powerful, albeit difficult, ways to embrace wholehearted living is by cultivating rest and play in your day-to-day life. In a world that is all about the “hustle,” this might seem counterintuitive to your productivity and your ability to lead. Nevertheless, this practice actually frees you to be able to embrace joy and gratitude, not just in your work life, but in all areas. In her Weekly Coaching Tip, Elena delves into what it means to live wholeheartedly, so you can thrive in every aspect of your life. In her interview segment, she speaks with her friend, Claudine Chiarmonte, a coach, psychotherapist, senior executive trainer, and podcaster, who has been helping people transform their lives for over 30 years. From an early age, Claudine was called to help others navigate difficult situations, which led her to become a social worker and child advocate. Her life took an unexpected turn when she was struck by a drunk driver. This incident caused her to reevaluate her life, career, and relationships, prompting her to change directions and become a coach. In this conversation, Elena and Claudine talk about the journey of finding your purpose, the difference between principles and values, what it takes to lead with self-awareness, how to live and lead with vulnerability, and more. Let's Get Social! Want to hear more from Elena? Click here! Learn more about Claudine's psychotherapy practice. Listen to Claudine's podcast. Connect with Claudine on Instagram. Follow her on LinkedIn! Friend her on Facebook. Check out Claudine's YouTube. This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: John Biethan, President of Imagine Podcasting Sam De Santo, Creative Director Rye Taylor, Podcast Design Strategist & Producer Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Meg McCarley, Brand Designer & Social Media Manager Raejan Noh, Content Writer J. Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram)

Today, Elena talks with coach and founder, Melanie Paez, about the C-Suite Collective Retreat, being an inclusive leader, and checking your prejudices at the door. Check out Elena's website to learn more about how she can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you. What does it mean to create an environment of belonging? We hear this phrase a lot in the world, but what does it really mean? Well, it starts with awareness—awareness of yourself, of others, and of your environment. We all have blind spots that we need to address in order to have a full understanding of ourselves so we can create belonging. In fact, there are a few steps you can take to ensure you create belonging, not just with others, but within yourself, as well. This includes journaling, determining your wants and needs, figuring out where you are withholding, and highlighting the areas where you are afraid of being different. In her Weekly Coaching Tip, Elena explains how you can begin to understand your own needs, wants, and desires, so you can be more attuned to others. In her interview segment, Elena talks with coach and founder of Chief Executive Angel, Melanie Paez. Melanie is also the Director of Coaching at the C-Suite Collective and is instrumental in helping the C-Suite thrive. In their conversation, Elena and Melanie talk about how to navigate being inclusive without excluding others, the balance of masculine and feminine leadership in the world, and owning who you are. They also cover highlights from the C-Suite Collective Retreat and share applicable steps you can use on your personal journey of self-discovery and belonging. Let's Get Social! Want to hear more from Elena? Click here! Find Melanie Paez on Facebook. Connect with Melanie on Instagram. Follow her on LinkedIn! This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: John Biethan, President of Imagine Podcasting Sam De Santo, Creative Director Rye Taylor, Podcast Design Strategist & Producer Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Meg McCarley, Brand Designer & Social Media Manager Raejan Noh, Content Writer J. Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram)

Elena speaks with the leader of TalentXponential, Andria Taylor. They discuss compassion and competence in leadership, creating a sustainable workforce, and more! Check out Elena's website to learn more about how she can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you. You know those times when we enter a difficult conversation and our guard goes up? Our bodies are taut, our hearts start racing, and we begin sweating. We get defensive. But how do we work through that defensiveness so we can engage in those tough conversations and truly hear and see other people? There are some key things that we can do to refocus and have discussions on topics that may make us uncomfortable. However, one of the most important things to remember is that the person we are talking with is just that—a fellow human being—and we want to move forward together. In her Weekly Coaching Tip, Elena details three practices you can implement to work through your own defensiveness during difficult conversations, so you can be heard and hear others. In her interview segment, Elena speaks with Andria Taylor, a winning consultant who helps mid-sized, high-growth businesses develop their leaders and maximize avenues for growth. Andria is the head of TalentXponential, holds certifications in Myers-Briggs, DiSC, Crucial Conversations, Change Management and executive coaching (CTI), and is a mom to twins. In this conversation, you'll discover how Andria's experience being a mom of twins has helped hone her as a leader, why leading with compassion and competence is critical to developing a sustainable workforce, how leaders can sharpen one another, and what it means to give people the opportunity to grow into their role. If you want to be encouraged in your leadership capacity, you don't want to miss this episode! Let's Get Social! Want to hear more from Elena? Click here! Check out Andria's consulting firm, TalentXpontential. Connect with Andria on LinkedIn! Contact her here. This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: John Biethan, President of Imagine Podcasting Sam De Santo, Creative Director Rye Taylor, Podcast Design Strategist & Producer Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Meg McCarley, Brand Designer & Social Media Manager Raejan Noh, Content Writer J. Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram)

Today, Elena talks with pianist and coach, Robert Kuang, about being open to self-discovery, expanding your abilities, and resting in your natural strengths. Check out Elena's website to learn more about how she can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you. Everyone wants an innovative team, but, as a leader, are you creating a space for innovation to thrive? Maybe you're not having as many creative conversations with your team, or maybe they're not as eager to share their ideas as they have been in the past. Here's the thing: you need to make sure you enable an environment for innovation and creativity to be present. So, ask yourself, are you willing to be surprised by your people? Are you shutting down your team or uplifting them so they can express their ideas? Are you highlighting areas where they can be creative? Don't be afraid to be honest with yourself and your team. In her Weekly Coaching Tip, Elena shares how you can conduct a self-examination, so you create an open, creative environment and lead your team to fearlessly innovate. In her interview segment, Elena speaks with pianist and coach, Robert Kuang. Shortly after immigrating to America from Beijing, Robert discovered his natural aptitude for music and piano at the age of 9. This discovery led him on an unexpected journey that impacted the rest of his life and propelled him into a fulfilling and impactful career. Through this conversation, Robert shares his story of self-discovery and creative expression, and you'll learn why it's so important to continually expand your abilities, be open to taking new paths, and rest in your natural abilities. Let's Get Social! Want to hear more from Elena? https://elenaarmijo.com/ and https://thec-suitecollective.com/ Learn more about Robert's coaching business and listen to his podcast here https://www.robertkuangcoaching.com/  Connect with Robert on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/robertkuanghome/  Follow him on LinkedIn! https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-kuang-84345aa3/?msgOverlay=true  This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: John Biethan, President of Imagine Podcasting https://www.imaginepodcasting.com/  Sam De Santo, Creative Director https://www.sandgstudios.com/  Rye Taylor, Podcast Design Strategist & Producer https://www.ryetaylor.com/  Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer https://alanmeaney.ie/  Meg McCarley, Brand Designer & Social Media Manager https://www.linkedin.com/in/meg-mccarley/ Raejan Noh, Content Writer https://www.linkedin.com/in/raejan-noh/  J. Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist https://hollatchaboykin.com/ and get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram https://www.instagram.com/jaaron_hi/ 

In this episode, Elena interviews Alycia James, a coach and healer who focuses on emotional freedom, intuitive development, and self-liberation. Check out Elena's website to learn more about how she can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you. What does celebrating Women's History Month - and beyond - look like?  Elena has thought a lot about how it would look to not only celebrate this month every year but live this month intentionally throughout the year.  After a particularly draining workshop, a loving voice message from Aaron reminded Elena that women can't leave men behind in the fight for equality.  Her advice and Weekly Coaching Tip are to surround yourself with allies – people who can see you and hear you (even if they don't understand you), and honor what you're up to in the world.  Think about who makes up your collective sisterhood, and if you are not intentionally looking to create sisterhood with other women, where could you find them, and gather them for support? In her interview segment, Elena talks with Alycia James, whom she first met online to create a coaching show.  Alycia's physical beauty, inner soul and kind heart concealed a very different inner feeling…that of hating being a woman.  Alycia experienced internalized misogyny for much of her life, and believed being born a woman was a hinderance.  As she began to explore coaching and mindset work with Elena, she realized nobody knows her better than herself, and gained confidence in standing up for her own opinion, even if it meant challenging a man's authority.  Cultivating relationships with men who allow her to be her authentic self empowered her and made her more present.   The conversation then turns to intuition and the tremendous power it has in our lives.  It's easily accessible to both men and women - men follow their gut instinct while women need to lean into their femininity.  Alycia explains that for women, fear is often mistaken for intuition.  They must be clearly distinguished, and learning to act on one or dismiss the other is crucial.  For Alycia, it's very clear which is which, because intuition comes with a sense of peace and a feeling of acceptance.  Always follow peace.  As a tip to the listeners to tap into their intuition more, she asks the simple question “If there was no right or wrong, what would you do?”, and the answer will usually come.   If you're interested in realizing your inner voice/intuition in a more profound way, you'll enjoy this episode! Let's Get Social! Want to hear more from Elena? https://elenaarmijo.com/  Alycia's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alycia.clare.voyant/ This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: John Biethan, President of Imagine Podcasting Sam De Santo, Creative Director Rye Taylor, Podcast Design Strategist & Producer Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Meg McCarley, Brand Designer & Social Media Manager Raejan Noh, Content Writer J. Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram)

In this episode, Elena and Isaac Quiroga talk about the importance of vision, valuable leadership principles, and why a willingness to try new things takes you on an incredible journey! Check out Elena's website to learn more about how she can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you. What does leading with your heart mean? This is a question that Elena has pondered multiple times over the past two years. Many leaders are afraid to lead with their hearts and are even more uncertain in our ever-changing world. Her evaluation has led her to hone in on three qualities that are evident when you lead from the heart. They are: vulnerability, active listening, and creating a space where all voices matter. When we lead from the heart, we can create environments where we are not only leading from our strengths, but we are also giving strength to our team. In her Weekly Coaching Tip, Elena shares the three qualities that are evident when you lead from the heart and how to demonstrate them as a leader. In her Interview Segment, Elena talks with her long-time friend Isaac Quiroga, a fellow NMSU graduate, New Yorker, and singer turned Mattel executive. Isaac's adventurous spirit and innovative nature have propelled him to try new things and reach new heights in the corporate world. Isaac started out as a singer in New York, but soon realized he lacked the business acumen to truly excel as a performer. So, he dove into the business world as an executive assistant and eventually climbed the corporate ladder to become the Vice President of Digital Engagement at Mattel. In this conversation, Elena and Isaac talk about the importance of vision, the unique strengths performers have in the business world, Isaac's challenges and lessons as a leader, and the importance of purpose in your work. If you're interested in business, leadership, or digital marketing, you'll enjoy this episode! Let's Get Social! Want to hear more from Elena? Click here! Connect with Isaac on LinkedIn. This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: John Biethan, President of Imagine Podcasting Sam De Santo, Creative Director Rye Taylor, Podcast Design Strategist & Producer Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Meg McCarley, Brand Designer & Social Media Manager Raejan Noh, Content Writer J. Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram)

Are you a recovering perfectionist? In this episode, Elena speaks with Shirin Eskandani, a former opera singer and coach who helps others see their self-worth and beat perfectionism. 2020 was the year of pivoting. Pivoting from working in the office to working at home. Pivoting from celebrating birthdays, graduations, and weddings to delaying them. Pivoting from relationships and careers to adapting to uncertainty. As 2023 begins with layoffs and a looming recession, it seems the pivoting will not stop. The thing is, life is infused with pivots. They aren't a recent phenomenon. They are just more evident. So, the question is, who would like to be when pivots happen in your life? You see, you can't always control your circumstances, but you can determine who you will be. So, who will you choose to be? In her Weekly Coaching Tip, Elena provides a game plan so you can begin to strategize who you will be when pivots happen in your life. In her interview segment, Elena speaks with coach, writer, podcast host, and public speaker, Shirin Eskandani. Shirin has been featured as a wellness expert on “The Today Show,” The New York Times, The Doctors and Shape magazine. Before becoming a fantastic coach, Shirin was a professional opera singer and performed at Carnegie Hall as well as the Metropolitan Opera. Now, Shirin uses her unique perspective to catalyze thoughtful discussions, help others live on their terms, and embrace a softer, intentional, yet adaptable life. In this conversation, Elena and Shirin talk about recovering from perfectionism and workaholism, choosing the beauty of slow, determined living, fostering curiosity in the day-to-day, and understanding your own self-worth. Let's Get Social! Check out Elena's website to learn more about how she can support you in seeing and using the power in you. Learn more about Shirin's coaching business and listen to her podcast. Connect with Shirin on Instagram. Follow her on LinkedIn! Contact Shirin here. This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: John Biethan, President of Imagine Podcasting Sam De Santo, Creative Director Rye Taylor, Podcast Design Strategist & Producer Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Meg McCarley, Brand Designer & Social Media Manager Raejan Noh, Content Writer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram)

In the first episode of 2023, Elena speaks with coaches and podcasters Bay Leblanc Quiney and Laura Westman, who host West of Wonderland, a podcast about magic, wonder, and leadership. Check out Elena's website to learn more about how she can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you. What dream have you forgotten about? This is the start of a new year, so what do you want to accomplish with it? Wouldn't it be amazing, at the end of this year, to say, “I'm achieving my dream?” The thing is, many of us have forgotten our dreams. We allow the stress of life and the seriousness of reality to dampen them, so we often set them aside as our childish hopes and forget about them. As we begin 2023, let's rekindle those long-lost dreams. Let's examine ourselves and remember what our dreams are. Then, let's put them into action, so we can add wonder to the world! In her Weekly Coaching Tip, Elena shares action steps you can use so you can be closer to achieving your dream in just one month. In her interview segment, Elena talks with her friends Bay Leblanc Quiney and Laura Westman. These two bright, powerhouse ladies are professionally certified coaches, who bring wonder, joy, and magic to every conversation—including those they have on their podcast, West of Wonderland. During their chat, Bay, Laura, and Elena talk about how West of Wonderland began, the importance of restoring audacious optimism, why wishing is actually a good thing, and how many of the Disney characters we all know and love exemplify vital leadership qualities. Their conversation will be sure to make you smile and empower you to dream! Let's Get Social! Want to hear more from Elena? Click here! Subscribe to West of Wonderland! Connect with these ladies on Instagram. Follow them on Facebook! Contact them here. This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: John Biethan, President of Imagine Podcasting Sam De Santo, Creative Director Rye Taylor, Podcast Design Strategist & Producer Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Meg McCarley, Brand Designer & Social Media Manager Raejan Noh, Content Writer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram)

I want to thank you all who have listened to this show this year. The people that I've interviewed and brought to you are very dear and close to my heart and leaders in the world I see having a huge impact on disrupting the norm and creating a world that they envision for all of us in the future. Thank you again from the bottom of my heart for listening. I want to wish you all a very warm and healthy holiday season. We're going to take a short break and be back at the beginning of the year with some amazing new guests all around leadership, development, growth, and us as a collective in the world bringing more love, light, and authenticity to the world. And until then, I will be slowly saying goodbye to 2022 and resting for the new year. Thank you again. I wish you the most beautiful, warm, loving holidays and a joyful holiday season. Elena

Why do we stay committed to our dreams? Elena and Angela Shanker discuss this question as they talk about being a successful musician in NYC and following your dreams despite hardships. Check out Elena's website to learn more about how she can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you. What is your current relationship to commitment? For some, commitment is a burden. For others, it's an obligation or responsibility. But let's dig a little deeper. What is your commitment based on? If it is based on external things, like perceived wrongs you see in the world that you are committed to fixing, that's good! However, we all have a finite amount of time, so we can't fix everything that we believe is wrong in the world, no matter how hard we try. Elena shares that when our commitment is based on something that is happening solely outside of us, that can cause us to eventually burn out. She notes that when your commitment comes from your core—from who you are and what you are passionate about—that passion-fueled commitment can be easier to fulfill, even when you run into challenges and obstacles along the way. In this episode, Elena talks with Angela Shanker, who is a beautiful example of a passion-driven, musically-gifted, dream-chasing woman. She and Elena talk about how Angela's love for her craft and her family fueled her to consistently achieve goals that others deemed impossible, including making a sustainable living as a musician and music teacher in New York City, pivoting from her work in classical music to musical theater as she successfully learned how to play multiple new instruments during the pandemic, and becoming a musician in the orchestra for the Rockettes Christmas Spectacular for the past two years! If you want to be inspired to stay committed to your dreams and push through the hard days, you do not want to miss this episode of The Collective Corner! Let's Get Social! Want to hear more from Elena? https://elenaarmijo.com/  Check out Angela's website: https://angelashankar.com/  Connect with Angela on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/angshankarmusic/  This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: John Biethan, President of Imagine Podcasting Sam De Santo, Creative Director Rye Taylor, Podcast Design Strategist & Producer Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Meg McCarley, Brand Designer & Social Media Manager Raejan Noh, Content Writer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram)

Can you be a strong leader and feel deeply? In this episode, Elena and her guest, Lauren Borden, discuss the leadership strengths of HSPs, the benefits of emotional awareness, and more! Check out Elena's website to learn more about how she can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you. What gifts would more emotional awareness allow you to receive? Deeper relationships? Better communication with others? A stronger business? When you become more aware of your own emotional state, you can have more opportunities for self-reflection and growth. The thing is, self-evaluating can be uncomfortable and, oftentimes, it can be easier to push past your emotions instead of dealing with them. So, why should we engage in this practice of self-evaluation at all? Stay tuned, because, in this episode's Weekly Coaching Tip, Elena details three reasons why practicing more emotional awareness can benefit your mental health, your leadership skills, and your relationships. In this episode, Elena talks with her friend, Holistic Leadership coach, and member of the C-Suite Collective, Lauren Borden. Not only is she armed with a PCC, M.A., and Ph.D., Lauren is an authentic and mindful person who truly sees the beauty in everyone she interacts with. Together, these two vibrant women discuss the power of highly sensitive people in leadership, new methods for understanding and honing your team's strengths, how individuals can come together by recognizing the collective beauty of humanity, and the story behind Lauren's rebranding of her coaching business! To top it off, they also share their experiences of healing, growth, and relational development at Elena's first-ever C-Suite Collective Retreat. If you're a highly sensitive person (HSP) who wants to tap into your leadership strengths and communication skills, you don't want to miss this episode! Let's Get Social! Want to hear more from Elena? Click here! Check out Lauren's coaching services. https://www.laurenbordencoaching.com/  Follow Lauren on Instagram! Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn. Contact Lauren here! This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: John Biethan, President of Imagine Podcasting Sam De Santo, Creative Director Rye Taylor, Podcast Design Strategist & Producer Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Meg McCarley, Brand Designer & Social Media Manager Raejan Noh, Content Writer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram)

On this episode, Elena speaks with screenwriter and podcast producer, Eric McKeever, about his show, The Coach, why audio comedy is important, and how to stop resisting creative ideas. What creative project or idea have you been resisting? If you're a creative or an entrepreneur, it seems new ideas are always coming to mind. Oftentimes, this can result in us acting on all of our new ideas, which keeps us from moving forward because we're going in so many directions. Or, in response to spreading ourselves too thin by chasing so many ideas in the past, we keep our heads down and resist our new creative ideas. However, both responses can result in paralysis and we aren't able to accomplish what we need to. So, how do we distinguish between the ideas that we really love and should pursue, and the ideas that are great but aren't what we need to seize right now? In her Weekly Coaching Tip, Elena shares three steps you can use to recognize the creative ideas you've resisted, but need to act upon. In her interview segment, Elena talks with her friend and former opera colleague, Eric McKeever. Not only is Eric an accomplished baritone opera singer, he is also a talented artist with a portfolio that includes screenwriting and podcast producing. During their conversation, Elena and Eric reminisce about their first opera together, discuss the pivots that singers and artists had to make during the pandemic, and the catalytic conversation that launched Eric's new audio-drama podcast, The Coach. Eric shares his inspiration behind the podcast, the ways humor addresses real life, how he has grown as a leader and an artist through the podcast production process, and more! Let's Get Social! Want to hear more from Elena? Click here: https://www.elenaarmijopodcast.com/episodes/ Connect with the talented Eric McKeever: ericmckeeverbaritone@gmail.com Listen to “The Coach” here: https://thecoachpodcast.squarespace.com/ Follow “The Coach” on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.coachaudiopodcast/ Check out “The Coach” on Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheCoachcomedy This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: John Biethan, President of Imagine Podcasting Sam De Santo, Creative Director Rye Taylor, Podcast Design Strategist & Producer Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Meg McCarley, Brand Designer & Social Media Manager Raejan Noh, Content Writer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist  For more, visit Imagine Podcasting at https://www.imaginepodcasting.com/

John Biethan discusses the power of being heard, and podcasting's unique ability to make that possible, because we all have something of value to say. What do you want to be known for in the world? What would you want people to say “thank you” for when you're gone?  In her Weekly Coaching Tip, Elena provides insight on how to look into the future, consider the qualities you want to be remembered for, the legacy you want to leave, and how to work backwards from there to start making them a reality today. In her interview segment, Elena speaks with John Biethan, President and CEO of Imagine Podcasting.  John weaves a unique and fascinating lesson in audio for the listener, covering topics from podcasting's beginnings, to music, to the creation of soundscapes and the feelings behind them. As the producer of Elena's podcast, they discuss the dynamics of how to grow and maintain a media presence in today's crowded landscape, as well as the current state of social media and where it's going. You'll hear about the newest “thing” in podcasting - private podcasting – and how it allows people to go deeper in their conversation and give the audience a more intimate experience. John also offers insight into leadership, responsibility and stewardship for women CEOs - that women often make better leaders than their male counterparts, and how everyone in business can benefit from slowing down and making an effort to really listen and hear what others have to say. Let's Get Social! John Biethan Website:  https://www.imaginepodcasting.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnbiethan/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/imagepodcasting Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imaginepodcasting/ This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: John Biethan, President of Imagine Podcasting Sam De Santo, Creative Director Rye Taylor, Podcast Design Strategist & Producer Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Meg McCarley, Brand Designer & Social Media Manager Raejan Noh, Content Writer Jennifer Harshman, Content Writer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram)

In her weekly Coaching Tip, Elena provides insight on what it means to be vulnerable and highlights the benefits of emotional exposure. Blaine Heck discusses the complexities of fertility and pregnancy for women in the workplace, as well as the hurdles that must be overcome with a disability. What does “being vulnerable” actually mean? While conventional wisdom says being vulnerable is being exposed to the potential of physical or emotional harm, Elena gives her own thoughts, using an illustration from Brene Brown. Being vulnerable is actually all about the courage it takes to step into uncertainty, experience risk and to take a chance on emotional exposure. Deeper and richer connections are the reward.  In her interview segment, Elena speaks with Blaine Heck, Senior Publicist at Nardi Media. Blaine dives deep into her experiences with pregnancy and IVF, all while juggling challenges, workload and stress at the office. Together they discuss the culture of shame around miscarriages, and the surprising healing support of social media. While being pregnant does affect the work, full transparency and an awareness of how you are showing up go a long way in helping others understand your experience, and make room for it. Blaine also shares (and compares) her disability in the workplace, specifically dyslexia. She offers insightful advice to employers, namely, that those with disabilities are often more creative than you realize, and that the disability often gives the individual a heightened awareness elsewhere - you just need to be open-minded enough to find it. Let's Get Social! Blaine on IG: https:/www.instagram.com/btodfield/?hl=en Blaine on LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blainetodfield/ Nardi Media: https://nardimedia.com/  Want to hear more from Elena? https://elenaarmijo.com/ and https://thec-suitecollective.com/ This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: John Biethan, President of Imagine Podcasting Sam De Santo, Creative Director Rye Taylor, Podcast Design Strategist & Producer Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Meg McCarley, Brand Designer & Social Media Manager Raejan Noh, Content Writer Jennifer Harshman, Content Writer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram)

What is your current relationship with spirituality? We'll take a closer look at that in our coaching tip for the week. And in our interview segment, we'll be joined by Meghan Smith, a spiritual teacher, leader, and coach. Learn more about how Elena can support you here https://elenaarmijo.com/  Meghan completed the Accomplishment Coaching Program in Victoria, B.C. Canada in 2019 and stayed on in a leadership role with the company for an additional two years upon graduation. Her podcast “The Skeptic's Guide to a Spiritual Life” reflects her past as a very skeptical, logic-brained lawyer who had very little room for spirituality in her life. She is now passionate about bringing spirituality to very high-achieving, high-performing people in a way that allows them to explore. Elena and Meghan talk about how Meghan successfully starts the “spirituality” conversation with her clients. They talk about partnership in spirituality, the willingness to open up, and how to find the access point to start the conversation. Finally, they confront the challenges that come with partnership and the relationship to spirituality.  Part of Meghan's journey includes her recovery from adrenaline addiction. She is an advocate of the 12-step process, and the wisdom that comes with it, and says that if there is any part of you that may have addictive tendencies to go find 12-step work immediately.  Finally, Meghan invites you to really “get” and understand that you don't need “fixing”. There's nothing “wrong” with you. You're just having a human experience.  In her Coaching Tip, Elena asks you about your relationship to whatever it is you believe. What is your current relationship to spirituality? Everyone has different versions of what spirituality means. The conversation around spirituality versus religion is a deeply layered conversation. Oftentimes when clients are confronted with limiting beliefs around something or STOPS, as we like to call it in the coaching world (where you are getting stopped around a concept or belief), it helps to look at the relationship to it. So instead of fighting against the beliefs that you have around God or the universe, or not believing in anything at all that's outside of yourself, it's easier to focus on who you are being about that belief. So, for me, there's a lot of gold in looking at the relationship to it. No matter what I believe and what my choice is, am I in alignment with it? Are my actions lining up with who I'm choosing to be and what I believe about it? Get clear about what's going on and then ask yourself: how do you want it to go? What kind of access would you enjoy with an ideal relationship with spirituality? What would it allow or make possible in your life? Get Social with Meghan Smith in any of these places Website: https://www.meghansmithcoaching.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachmeghansmith/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meghan-smith-coaching Podcast: https://www.meghansmithcoaching.com/podcast  Want to hear more from Elena? https://elenaarmijo.com/ and https://thec-suitecollective.com/ This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: John Biethan, President of Imagine Podcasting Sam De Santo, Creative Director Rye Taylor, Podcast Design Strategist & Producer Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Meg McCarley, Brand Designer & Social Media Manager Raejan Noh, Content Writer Jennifer Harshman, Content Writer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram)

With the Great Resignation, the current recession, and other issues, so many teams are facing several crises now. Find out what you can do to lead more effectively through all of these challenges and more. Did you know that what happens throughout an organization is magnified at the C-Suite or executive level? Of course, each department and each level of the organization struggles with certain things. Today's guest says something that might surprise you: she says it moves upward. The person at the top is seeing all of it, feeling all of it, and carrying the weight of all of it. That's a lot of pressure. In this episode of The Collective Corner, Elena speaks with Annikki Hill, who has spent much of her career in the international financial sector, first as an attorney, and then as a health insurance manager in the Cayman Islands.  In 2012, Annikki founded her coaching practice, Blue Island Oracle. She works with individuals and corporate groups around the world to create alignment in their lives and within their teams. Annikki's experience as an industry leader has served her clients well as they explore and expand their own leadership. She shares an interesting perspective on integrity in this episode. Let's Get Social! Want to hear more from Elena? https://elenaarmijo.com/ and https://thec-suitecollective.com/  Connect with Annikki Hill in any of these places: Website: https://blueislandoracle.com/about/   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blueislandoracle  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annikki-hill-llb-accc-a46a847/?originalSubdomain=ky  Instagram: @blueislandoracle https://www.instagram.com/blueislandoracle/ This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: John Biethan, President of Imagine Podcasting Sam De Santo, Creative Director Rye Taylor, Podcast Design Strategist & Producer Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Meg McCarley, Brand Designer & Social Media Manager Raejan Noh, Content Writer Jennifer Harshman, Content Writer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram)

Where are you neglecting to celebrate in your life? We'll look at that in our coaching tip for the week. In our interview segment today, we have Alex Terranova, professional certified coach, founder of The Dream Mason, Inc., and author of Fictional Authenticity. Elena says of him, “I love this man so much. We met in our coach training program, and after an entire year of intense immersive training, we came out better humans and coaches for the world.” Learn more about how Elena Armijo can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you. If your life were a watercraft, would it be a pirate ship, a US Navy vessel, or a Disney cruise? You'll want to listen in to hear the meanings of these and to figure out where your ship is headed. You're in control of so much. Have you pointed your life in the right direction, and what will you do to create the life you want? In her weekly coaching tip, Elena asks you about the things you can celebrate and encourages you to do so because too often, we skip celebrating. In Elena's interview segment, she talks with Alex Terranova, Performance Alchemist & Coach. He is the author of Fictional Authenticity and Redefining Masculinity and the host of The DreamMason podcast and The Frequency Shifters Show. Alex works with men whose achievements and financial successes have not created the rewarding, joyful, and fulfilling life and business they desire. In this episode, he brings up some important things you'll want to consider: race, politics, professionalism, personal responsibility, and more. Let's Get Social! Want to hear more from Elena? https://elenaarmijo.com/  Connect with Alex Terranova, Performance Alchemist & Coach at his website, TheDreamMason, by email, or on social media. Here are his links: https://www.instagram.com/inspirationalalex/ https://www.facebook.com/DreamMasonInc/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvRU3eZLTS0n_Aj01w6McMg https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexterranova/ https://www.tiktok.com/@dreammason This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: John Biethan, President of Imagine Podcasting Sam De Santo, Creative Director Rye Taylor, Podcast Design Strategist & Producer Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Meg McCarley, Brand Designer & Social Media Manager Raejan Noh, Content Writer Jennifer Harshman, Content Writer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram)

In this episode, Elena talks with Hilary Hoffman about how she got integrated into the C-Suite Collective. After nearly a decade in finance, spending her time most notably at Goldman Sachs and Oaktree Capital Management, Hilary Hoffman launched her fitness platform The SOTO Method in 2021. The SOTO Method is a program she initially created for herself; strapped for time, she craved a more efficient burn. The workout needed to reflect her reality: she had only 35 minutes, and every single second needed to count. Through Hilary's extensive knowledge of isometrics, SOTO delivers approachability, efficiency and results. In class, you will be reminded to stay in the “can” mindset time and time again. This means physical strength starts with believing four words, “I can do this.” “After my time at Goldman, I made a pivot within the industry, and I landed in a spot that I was not particularly happy in. And that unhappiness brought me to a place of self-discovery. During that whole process, what I decided to do was instead of thinking, This is what I want to do next, I would have conversations with as many humans as I could. There was no agenda other than, ‘Tell me why you love your job. Tell me what you love about the day-to-day of your role at this company.' I started to learn that people who loved their jobs the most had a sense of agency that they got to access on a daily basis. And more importantly, they were in roles where they felt like they were utilizing their strengths on a daily basis. And I had come to a place where a lot of the friction I experienced in finance . . . I was good enough at my job where I could have 100% been happy if I had stayed there and pivoted companies once. However, I decided to figure out what were my strengths and where can I best express them? And during this time, the SOTO method was something that I'd always come back to.” Hilary says, “It's such a powerful exercise of just saying out loud, ‘What is holding me back from taking that next step?'” Join us to learn more.  Contact Hilary Website: https://www.sotomethod.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sotomethod/ Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-soto-method Credits: This podcast was produced by the following amazing team:  John Biethan, President of Imagine Podcasting  Sam De Santo, Creative Director  Rye Taylor, Podcast Design Strategist & Producer  Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer  Meg McCarley, Brand Designer & Social Media Manager  Raejan Noh, Content Writer  Jennifer Harshman, Content Writer  Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram) 

What is the difference between a mentor and a coach? We look at that in this episode, and in our interview segment, we have Steve Friedman. Steve is an executive coach and consultant who has had several professions. He was the president of Pace University from 2007 to 2017, and he served as the dean of the Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University. He was a well-established lawyer and created many, many breakthroughs for people in the world. He says, “For the last four or five years, I've been an executive coach for both companies and nonprofits. Through a variety of problems the university as a whole experienced, I became president virtually overnight. I did that for 10 years, and then I retired again in 2017, which brought me to what I'm doing today. I thought that being a coach would be a continuation of a high-level view of what I'd been doing all my life, which was basically helping people and bringing my experience and whatever talent I had to help them.” “I can tell you a brief story about myself. This is when I was president of Pace University early in my time there. After about nine months, I asked a coach to do a 180 and interview everybody. One of the comments that came back was ‘Steve's a smart guy. He makes up his mind quickly. And when he makes up his mind, he stops listening.' Nothing could be further from the truth. I puzzled a lot about that, and I realized that what was going on is that at our management committee meetings, I was frustrated by the fact that everyone was talking to me instead of to each other. I finally got what I thought was a truly brilliant idea, which is when someone started to talk, I would look down, and then they would have to talk to each other because I wasn't looking at them. The fact is everyone saw this as he's not listening to me. And instead of being a brilliant idea, it was really one of the dumbest things I've ever done.” The biggest piece of advice he would give C-suite leaders right now is that professionals rise and fall based on what they do, and leaders rise and fall based on what they lead other people to do. Contact Steve Friedman: Email: sjf@pace.edu   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-j-friedman-abb9a025 This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: John Biethan, President of Imagine Podcasting Sam De Santo, Creative Director Rye Taylor, Podcast Design Strategist & Producer Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Meg McCarley, Brand Designer & Social Media Manager Raejan Noh, Content Writer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram)

Vibrant and passionate executive coach Juanita Molano Parra speaks with Elena Armijo about the double-edged sword of authenticity, creating a world of belonging and kindness, and expressing anger in a positive way. Learn more about how Elena Armijo can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you. In this segment of The Collective Corner, Elena Armijo speaks with overcomer, creative, and executive coach Juanita Molano Parra. Originally from Bogota, Columbia, Juanita pursued a career in finance after graduating with an MBA from NYU Stern. However, when she moved to Indianapolis, she decided to shift gears and become a coach. During her coaching training, she met Elena and the two became fast friends. Today, Juanita has her own coaching business and is passionate about helping leaders escape from the land of “should” to a world where they can live the life they were meant to live. During their conversation, Elena and Juanita talk about how authenticity is a double-edged sword, the importance of expressing anger in a constructive way, creating an environment of belonging and kindness, and staying true to your values. As Juanita so vividly illustrates, “Our values are like a lighthouse that reveals who we are and what we stand for.” If you want to learn more about living in light of your values and balancing authenticity with belonging, check out this episode! Let's Get Social! Want to hear more from Elena? Click here! Connect with the Juanita Molano Parra on her website, subscribe to her newsletter, and follow her on Instagram, LinkedIn, or email. This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: John Biethan, President of Imagine Podcasting Sam De Santo, Creative Director Rye Taylor, Podcast Design Strategist & Producer Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Meg McCarley, Brand Designer & Social Media Manager Raejan Noh, Content Writer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram)

Elena's special guest this week is her childhood friend, Santino Jimenez. In this episode, you'll learn how they were both shaped by their childhoods in Las Cruces, the lessons Santino has learned in his entertainment career, and why it's vital to take action! Check out Elena's website to learn more about how she can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you. What gifts from your past have turned out to be your superpowers today? Sometimes, what is hindering us in the present is rooted in our past. Other times, the things that currently propel us forward are the values, beliefs, habits, and actions that have been developed in our childhood. These gifts from your past are the very things that support you and highlight the positive aspects of who you are today. In her Weekly Coaching Tip, Elena shares the gifts she's carrying from her past, and how you can determine and better utilize the gifts you have attained from your own childhood. In her interview segment, Elena speaks with a very special guest—dynamite actor, improviser, and producer Santino Jimenez. Santino and Elena grew up together in Las Cruces, New Mexico, and their lives have taken interesting turns. While Elena went off to pursue music in New York, Santino headed to LA to pursue his acting career. Now, the two have reconnected and, in this conversation, you'll hear about their childhoods, the ways they were shaped by their community and families, and how the gifts they were given in their pasts have propelled them in their lives now. From the importance of taking action, to staying humble and constantly learning how to perfect your craft, to telling it like it is and being yourself, Santino shares important insights for those who want to become actors, comedians, or just want to be reminded to pursue their dreams. Let's Get Social! Want to hear more from Elena? Click here! Connect with the fantastic Santino Jimenez on Instagram. Check out Santino's IMDb profile! Contact Santino! This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: John Biethan, President of Imagine Podcasting Sam De Santo, Creative Director Rye Taylor, Podcast Design Strategist & Producer Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Meg McCarley, Brand Designer & Social Media Manager Raejan Noh, Content Writer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram)

Are you a small business owner or someone who's considering launching your own business? Then, you'll definitely want to listen to Elena's conversation with Small Business Consultant and Certified Business Coach Robyn Koenig. Together, they talk about the lessons she's learned, how to utilize structures in your small business, the power of simplifying, and more! Check out Elena's website to learn more about how she can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you. What could simplicity provide you access to? Many times, people believe that simplicity is equivalent to low-impact. But that's not the case. In fact, simplicity allows you to experience life more fully because, instead of being pulled in so many directions you can only give a fraction of your attention to whatever's going on, you can be fully present and engaged in the things that truly matter in your business, life, and relationships. In her Weekly Coaching Tip, Elena shares how she's focused on simplicity in her own life and issues a call to action for you to do the same. In her interview segment, she talks with grace-filled Small Business Consultant and Certified Business Coach Robyn Koenig. Having spent 20 years in various roles in corporate, non-profit, and freelance environments, she has the experience and passion to help small business owners level up their businesses. After her second layoff in 2017, Robyn decided to launch her own business so she could dictate her opportunities and create a career she loves. Whether you're a freelancer, coach, small business owner, or entrepreneur-explorer, her journey of perseverance, creativity, grit, and grace will inspire you. In their conversation, Elena and Robyn discuss the lessons Robyn learned through launching her small business, the pitfalls many small business owners fall into, why it's good to try new ventures, how structures can be a small business owner's best friend, and more! Let's Get Social! Want to hear more from Elena Click here! Connect with the amazing Robyn Koenig on Instagram and LinkedIn. Check out Robyn's website! Contact Robyn! This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: John Biethan, President of Imagine Podcasting Sam De Santo, Creative Director Rye Taylor, Podcast Design Strategist & Producer Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Meg McCarley, Brand Designer & Social Media Manager Raejan Noh, Content Writer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram)

Do you ever feel lost or that you've forgotten who you are? Well, Business and Life Coach Aisha Crumbine is here to talk about how you can get clear on who you are, set boundaries, and embrace the journey so you can thrive! Learn more about how Elena Armijo can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you. On the latest episode of The Collective Corner, Elena Armijo speaks with powerhouse Business and Life Coach Aisha Crumbine. Aisha is a certified trainer in psychological safety, holds a Master's in Educational Leadership from Teacher's College at Columbia University, previously served as the Vice President of Development for TFA Houston, and volunteered on the board and as a council member for Breakthrough Houston, Girls, Inc., and Houstonians for Great Public Schools. If you're a listener of In a Manner of Speaking, you'll recognize Aisha from the podcast's first episode. Whether you've already heard Elena's initial conversation with Aisha or if this is your first time listening to the podcast, you'll definitely want to check out their episode here! Today, Elena and Aisha talk about how the past two years have opened up conversations surrounding trauma, creating space for yourself, and holding fast to your core values. One of the main things that Aisha focuses on with her clients is working through the mess in life and learning through it. As she so aptly puts it, “{You} don't wait until you need to be strong to get strong. Like, everything along the way is giving you what you need so that when you need it, you have it.” If you want to really dive in and get clear on who you are, define who you want to become, and set better boundaries, Aisha's new 6-month program launches the first week of June! Let's Get Social! Want to hear more from Elena? Click here! Connect with Aisha Crumbine on her website or Instagram. You can listen to Elena and Aisha's first conversation on In a Manner of Speaking here! This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: John Biethan, President of Imagine Podcasting Sam De Santo, Creative Director Rye Taylor, Podcast Design Strategist & Producer Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Meg McCarley, Brand Designer & Social Media Manager Raejan Noh, Content Writer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram)

Wheeling Symphony Orchestra conductor and music director John Gennaro Devlin joins Elena Armijo to talk about living in light of your values, the importance of relationships when you're creating change, how to create a bridge between the artistic, business, and blue-collar communities, and more! Learn more about how Elena Armijo can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you. What do values have to do with leadership? Too often, we are either not clear on our values or do not make our decisions based on them. When we aren't living from our values, we can limit or destroy our impact in the world. So, how do we get clear on what our values are? Elena recommends an exercise from Brene Brown, which you can use to help clarify your values and determine if you are making decisions in alignment with them.  In her Weekly Coaching Tip, Elena provides insight and resources so you can discover your values and lead from them. In her interview segment, Elena Armijo speaks with conductor and music director at the Wheeling Symphony Orchestra, John Gennaro Devlin. Originally from New York, he wanted to become a professional clarinetist, but, due to his outgoing personality, he pivoted into a role that he says, “Felt like home.” Now, at the Wheeling Symphony Orchestra, John excels at creating a familial culture amongst the musicians and staff and creating bonds in his politically diverse community. In this episode, John shares why it's vital an organization's decisions are aligned with its values, how beginning professionals can change their mindset so they can excel in their careers, why the orchestra is showcasing current American composers, what he's doing to create relationships in his community, and more! Let's Get Social! Want to hear more from Elena? Click here! Connect with John Gennaro Devlin on his website, Instagram, Facebook, or email. This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: John Biethan, President of Imagine Podcasting Sam De Santo, Creative Director Rye Taylor, Podcast Design Strategist & Producer Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Meg McCarley, Brand Designer & Social Media Manager Raejan Noh, Content Writer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram)

In this segment of The Collective Corner, Elena Armijo talks with the wonderful Melanie Paez and Liz Haber Zambrano about their shared experiences as Latin American women, their approaches to coaching, and the beauty of looking at the world through the relationships you can create. Learn more about how Elena Armijo can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you. In this episode of The Collective Corner, Elena Armijo talks with the wonderful Melanie Paez and Liz Haber Zambrano. Through her coaching business, Chief Executive Angel, Melanie helps reawaken people's passions so they can thrive in every area of their lives. Liz's ontological approach with her clients is an illustration of the way she partners with others so they can be confident in who they are, instead of who they should be.   Elena, Melanie, and Liz are all of Latin descent, had parents who assimilated quickly into American culture, are committed to the familial strength that is found in Latin culture, and are passionate about the similarities and differences that make everyone special. In this conversation, these vibrant Latin women talk about their sisterhood, their diverse backgrounds and shared experiences, the struggles and strengths of being Latin American women, and the beauty of looking at the world through the relationships you can create.   You can listen to their stories in the latest segment of The Collective Corner! Let's Get Social! Want to hear more from Elena? Click here! Connect with the Melanie Paez on Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn. Meet Liz Haber Zambrano on her website, Instagram, or on LinkedIn. This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: John Biethan, President of Imagine Podcasting Sam De Santo, Creative Director Rye Taylor, Podcast Design Strategist & Producer Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Meg McCarley, Brand Designer & Social Media Manager Raejan Noh, Content Writer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram)

Do you want to find support? Take a listen to Elena's latest interview with Michelle Mercier for tips on creating space for what you need and developing yourself. Check out Elena's website to learn more about how she can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you. What does giving yourself permission look like today? If you gave yourself permission to get what you need in the moment, what would change? Would it bring you more joy? Would it create more opportunities? Would it help someone in the world? It's easy to put ourselves on the back burner, especially when there are crazy things happening in the world that require our attention. But sometimes, in order to deal with the craziness, you need to take a moment for yourself.  In her Weekly Coaching Tip, Elena advises to ask yourself, “What do I need right now?” and then give yourself permission to attain whatever that is. In her interview segment, Elena talks with passionate mama, opportunity creator, and beautiful gem, Michelle Mercier. Michelle is a business coach, certified Dare to Lead™ professional, and host of the top-ranked podcast, The Resilient Entrepreneur. She's a multifaceted powerhouse, who has over 20 years in various organizations, from nationally acclaimed nonprofits to corporations like PayPal. When she's not helping others reach their potential and shine bright in the world, she's taking care of her two kids and creating beauty in her current space. In their conversation, Elena and Michelle talk about processing grief, being a resilient mother, developing yourself, finding support, and recognizing the humanity in others. Let's Get Social! Want to hear more from Elena? Click here! Listen to The Resilient Entrepreneur. Check out Michelle's website! Learn more about the amazing Michelle Mercier on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn. Contact Michelle! This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: John Biethan, President of Imagine Podcasting Sam De Santo, Creative Director Rye Taylor, Podcast Design Strategist & Producer Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Meg McCarley, Brand Designer & Social Media Manager Raejan Noh, Content Writer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram)

As we navigate life, it's easy to forget our dreams, or to give up on dreaming altogether. Today, Elena talks with Tynan Davis, who encourages us to dream bigger, remember who we are, and live with joy. Check out Elena's website to learn more about how she can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you. What dreams have you forgotten about? As we navigate life, it's easy to forget our dreams or to give up on dreaming altogether. But dreams are important. Eleanor Roosevelt once said, “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” When you're creating your future or changing your direction in life, it's vital to resurrect those dreams you used to have as a wide-eyed, seemingly invincible young adult, and look at your life in light of them. What did you use to dream about? Where do you want to go from here? What new dreams do you want to have? In her Weekly Coaching Tip, Elena provides tips for how you can remember your dreams, create new ones, and live in light of possibility, rather than fear. In her interview segment, Elena speaks with Grammy-award winning opera vocalist and winsome leader, Tynan Davis. Tynan is a fabulous artist, having toured with Wynton Marsalis and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra and on the 25th anniversary North American tour of Phantom of the Opera (where she met her husband—talk about romantic!).  Through Tynan's story, you'll be encouraged that even if you've given up on your dreams—or if you've settled for small dreams—you can reclaim them and create a new future of joy, artistry, and possibilities. In this conversation, Elena and Tynan talk about balancing excellence and perfectionism, moving past your limiting beliefs, navigating motherhood, and owning your identity, instead of relying on your career or your success to define you. Let's Get Social! Want to hear more from Elena? Click here! Learn more about the fabulous Tynan Davis on Instagram. Check out Tynan's website! Contact Tynan! This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: John Biethan, President of Imagine Podcasting Sam De Santo, Creative Director Rye Taylor, Podcast Design Strategist & Producer Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Meg McCarley, Brand Designer & Social Media Manager Raejan Noh, Content Writer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram)

Learn more about how Elena Armijo can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you. On the second segment of The Collective Corner, Elena Armijo is joined by the beautiful Bebuo Ewa and Hillary Hittner. Bebuo's name means “persevere,” which is exactly what she has done and what she is passionate about helping others do by engaging in transformational leadership. Hillary is an inclusive leader who is committed to creating an empathetic space so that everyone can be courageous and own their leadership. These ladies cover topics like DEI and vulnerability, offer insights on how you can engage in self-care when faced with hard conversations, and share the ways they have walked their clients through conflict, in order to avoid burnout. According to Bebuo, love is the best way to avoid burnout: “I bring a ton of love as a defense mechanism to compensate for all of the experienced anger and hate that comes towards me.” Bebuo is eager to launch her new 5-month program, the Executive Playground Experience, which encapsulates her approach to hard conversations. Through her program, she will offer leadership coaching, group coaching, DEIB work, and a special wellness weekend. As Hillary explains, her own passion to help others has been burning for as long as she can remember: “I was always looking for the person who was maybe not inside the group and how to bring them into the group. So I was always looking to see who might be, for lack of a better word… the underdog, or the person who might not be getting the spotlight, who might not see their own greatness.” Now, she is launching a new round of her Inclusive Leadership Mastermind for women, which will cover aspects of race, inclusive leadership, and more. You can learn more in the latest segment of The Collective Corner! Let's Get Social! Want to hear more from Elena? Click here! Connect with the Bebuo Ewa on her website, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram. Meet Hillary Hittner on her website, or on Instagram. Learn more about Bebuo's Executive Leadership Playground. Check out Hillary's Inclusive Leadership Mastermind. This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: John Biethan, President of Imagine Podcasting Sam De Santo, Creative Director Rye Taylor, Podcast Design Strategist & Producer Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Meg McCarley, Brand Designer & Social Media Manager Raejan Noh, Content Writer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram)

Learn more about how Elena Armijo can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you. How do I create a culture of diversity and belonging in my organization? This is a question that has saturated much of the conversation surrounding company culture. Contrary to popular belief, creating the culture you want is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor. Instead, it requires you to take a good look at four distinct areas and adjust accordingly in order to begin creating a culture of belonging. In Elena's Weekly Coaching Tip, you'll discover that creating a diverse culture is not about metrics, but about creating a space of support, love, and forward movement. In Elena's interview segment, she speaks with social impact leader and world-changer, Richie Kendall. He is the Co-Founder and Chief Experience Officer of Goodworld, a platform that helps nonprofits and companies fundraise, connect with their communities, and maximize their social impact. Not only is Richie an exceptional human being, he is also a great example of someone who is unapologetically committed to living out their values. In their conversation, Richie shares his mission in life, the power of storytelling and how your own narrative adds meaning to others, how technology can be used to maximize social impact, and why creating a culture of belonging begins with you.   Let's Get Social! Want to hear more from Elena? Click here! Learn more about Goodworld. Connect with the fantastic Richie Kendall on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and Clubhouse. This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: John Biethan, President of Imagine Podcasting Sam De Santo, Creative Director Rye Taylor, Podcast Design Strategist & Producer Alan Meaney, Audio Engineer Meg McCarley, Brand Designer & Social Media Manager Raejan Noh, Content Writer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram)

Learn more about how Elena Armijo can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you. Welcome to a new feature on our podcast called The Collective Corner! As the founder of the C-Suite Collective, I realized that we have SO MUCH gold on our platform and we want to share it with the world. Twice a month, we will be bringing you a conversation around leadership from the viewpoint of coaches, specifically the ones on our team, to amplify the conversations we are having with clients around the world. For the first The Collective Corner, we have fantastic coaches Stephanie River and Sebastian Little. Stephanie is all about helping high-performers lay down their armor and tap into their vulnerability, so they can live and work courageously. Sebastian's focus is on causing disruption by helping others dive into the mess, so they can optimize culture, close performance gaps, and unlock leadership potential. Together, they talk about the power of being in the mess of life to achieve more and the importance of vulnerability in order to create belonging. Through experiences with their clients, they share insight on how you can create deeper connections within your organization, and how you can enhance your leadership through relationships and authentic communication. As Sebastian powerfully said, “When we can recognize the superpowers in ourselves and in other people, we elevate everybody together.” Additionally, Stephanie and Sebastian highlight the 75 Slow Challenge, a 75-day program they created to help you go farther and move faster by slowing down. Too often, as Stephanie notes, “People move fast to avoid the mess.” Through their program, they hope to help people slow down, embrace the mess, and move forward in authenticity. You'll definitely enjoy our new segment, The Collective Corner! Let's Get Social! Want to hear more from Elena? Click here! Connect with Stephanie River on her website, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram. Meet Sebastian Little on his website, Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Sign up for the 75 Slow Challenge for free! This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: John Biethan, President of Imagine Podcasting Sam De Santo, Creative Director Rye Taylor, Podcast Design Strategist & Producer Meg McCarley, Brand Designer & Social Media Manager Raejan Noh, Content Writer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram)

Learn more about how Elena Armijo can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you. What if this experience is the perfect one? Instead of trying to control and manage everything, what if you allow yourself to look at this moment with an abundance mindset? View this moment as one that is happening for a reason and that is leading you where you need to be—even if you don't know where the destination is yet. Taking a second to gather yourself and view things in this light can help you see the world through the lens of possibility, while also allowing you to remain committed to your future. Think about what is possible today. How would things change for you and how would you move forward? In Elena's Weekly Coaching Tip, you'll be inspired to expand your perspective and ask yourself what would happen if your current experience is the perfect one. In Elena's interview, she talks with powerhouse coach, Christine Sachs. She is the President and CEO of Christine Sachs Coaching, a Master Certified Coach, and a coach trainer for Accomplishment Coaching. She doesn't like bacon or ice cream, but she loves helping people step into their identities as disruptors. Together, Elena and Christine talk about owning who you are, being responsive to others' needs, the difference between coaching, consulting, and therapy, and how your mindset has a powerful effect on those around you. Let's Get Social! Want to hear more from Elena? Click here! Schedule a coaching session with Christine. Connect with the amazing Christine Sachs on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram. This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: John Biethan, President of Imagine Podcasting Sam De Santo, Creative Director Rye Taylor, Podcast Design Strategist & Producer Meg McCarley, Brand Designer & Social Media Manager Raejan Noh, Content Writer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram)

Learn more about how Elena Armijo can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you. Can you unblock creativity? So many people believe that they aren't creative, either because they do not see themselves as creative or because somewhere along the way, someone told them that they weren't creative. But that's simply not true. Everyone is creative—it's just that not everyone has accessed their creativity. In her Weekly Coaching Tip, Elena provides three tips for how you can access your creativity. In her interview, Elena speaks with Bethania Baray-Harrison. Not only is she a new mom, she is also the Director of Education and Civic Programs at Opera Memphis, a recipient of the McCleave Fellowship in Directing from Opera Memphis, a committed advocate and liaison for the Latinx community, and a rising social media influencer. In Elena's words, “She's light. She's love. She's passion.” In their conversation, they talk about Bethania's journey from New Mexico State University to becoming the Director of Education and Civic Programs at Opera Memphis, the future for the healing, connective power of opera, and how the arts create opportunities for underserved populations. Be sure to take a listen! Let's Get Social! Want to hear more from Elena? Click here! Follow the gorgeous Bethania Baray-Harrison on Facebook and Instagram. Learn more about Opera Memphis! Visit Bethania's website. This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: John Biethan, President of Imagine Podcasting Sam De Santo, Creative Director Rye Taylor, Podcast Design Strategist & Producer Meg McCarley, Brand Designer & Social Media Manager Raejan Noh, Content Writer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram)

Learn more here about how Elena Armijo can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you. What are you committed to? Far too often, we get caught up in how we feel and allow our emotions to color how we live. It's not that our emotions are strictly bad. In fact, they serve as “mile markers” that signify where we are and what we might need to change. However, if we allow our emotions to completely control our decisions, then our lives would change with every passing emotion. Instead, we need to determine what we are committed to, despite hardships or our feelings. In her Weekly Coaching Tip, Elena shares a simple, yet powerful leadership insight from Lebron James that you can use to clarify your emotional state. In her interview, Elena talks with director, choreographer, performer, and artistic director of ALMA NYC, Zanza Steinberg. Whether she's leading dancers to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, funding scholarships for women to attend college in Africa, or launching her own media company, Media by Z, Zanza puts her heart and soul in all she does. Together, Elena and Zanza discuss the origin of ALMA NYC, the connective power of art, and why everyone should be audacious and reach for the stars. You don't want to miss this! Let's Get Social! Want to hear more from Elena? Click here! Connect with the angelic Zanza Steinberg on LinkedIn and Instagram. Learn more about ALMA NYC through their website, YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter! Visit Media by Z's website, Facebook, or Instagram. Check out Zanza's dance classes here. This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: John Biethan, President of Imagine Podcasting Sam De Santo, Creative Director Rye Taylor, Podcast Design Strategist & Producer Meg McCarley, Brand Designer & Social Media Manager Raejan Noh, Content Writer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram)

Learn more about how Elena Armijo can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you. When was the last time you tried something new? Great leaders look for ways to innovate, but what often stops them is the fear of risk. Trying new things can fix a problem, but it can also result in failure. The thing is, you'll never grow or become more effective until you try something new. In her Weekly Coaching Tip, Elena shares three steps to support you when you try something new. In her Interview Segment, Elena talks with her dear friend, Natalie Megules. She's a creative entrepreneur, a fantastic singer, and an amazing vocal coach. She's also an incredible baker! In their conversation, they talk about how Natalie has created a “no-vacation-needed” life, as she loves on her kids, manages her voice studio, teaches her students, and bakes fabulous cakes. Let's Get Social! Want to hear more from Elena? Click here! Connect with the beautiful Natalie Megules on LinkedIn, or Instagram. Order one of Natalie's fabulous cakes! This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: John Biethan, President of Imagine Podcasting Sam De Santo, Creative Director Rye Taylor, Podcast Design Strategist & Producer Meg McCarley, Brand Designer & Social Media Manager Raejan Noh, Content Writer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram)

Learn more about how Elena Armijo can support you in seeing and using the power that resides within you. What is your current relationship to creativity? When we bring our creativity to coaching, board rooms, and within the organizations we work with, we bring our authentic self, talents, and gifts that make us so effective in these situations. You can ask yourself a few questions that might help bring your creativity to the table. Is your creativity blocked? What would it be like if you did lead with creativity in mind? And what might you have to trust inside yourself to let it rise to the surface? In her Weekly Coaching Tip, Elena shares three questions about creativity you may want to ask yourself. In her Interview Segment, Elena talks with her dear friend Virginia Mason Richardson. Virginia is known as “The Queen of Synchronicity” and an intuit. In college, she was diagnosed with two autoimmune diseases. One day she experienced a physical “rush” that came packaged with a message that said she had to stop taking the mounds of medicines sitting on her bathroom counter. She started listening, accepting her own “authority” which resulted in her healing. Let's Get Social! Want to hear more from Elena? Click here! Connect with the beautiful Virginia Mason Richardson on her website or on Instagram. Order The Magic Guide. This podcast was produced by the following amazing team: John Biethan, President of Imagine Podcasting Sam De Santo, Creative Director Rye Taylor, Podcast Design Strategist & Producer Meg McCarley, Brand Designer & Social Media Manager Raejan Noh, Content Writer Aaron Boykin, Musician & Artist (Get updates about Aaron's music via Instagram)