Podcasts about career pivots

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 30, 2025 26:47

This week, Associate Director of Special Projects Kristen Nichols and senior fashion editor Anna LaPlaca are giving you the definitive report on all things weddings. Kristen runs through the biggest trends from 2026 Bridal Fashion Week, where she saw chiffon capes and voluminous skirts in full force. And Anna has the scoop from experts in the wedding industry about everything beyond dresses—from unique destinations to wax-sealed invitations. They've got everything you need to know if you're walking down the aisle anytime soon. Plus, the pair break down the relationship between bridal fashion and the fashion industry at large.Shop our editor's eBay picks here!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

From Burnout to Bold: How to Lead a Limitless Life Aligned with Your Values with Dr. Esther Zeledón (Re-release)

Negotiate Your Career Growth

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 30, 2025 57:28

Does this sound familiar? You've been told to just keep grinding it out in your current job until the “right” opportunity magically appears, but all that's gotten you is more stress, second-guessing, and the nagging feeling you're wasting your potential. It sucks watching your energy drain away while your values get sidelined and you wonder if you'll ever feel truly fulfilled at work. You deserve a career that's actually aligned with who you are and the impact you want to make. Let's talk about how to break out of that cycle and make values-driven pivots with confidence. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover how navigating career transitions with purpose can unlock clarity and confidence for your next meaningful move. Learn to build a mission-driven organizational culture that inspires teams and drives lasting impact. Uncover effective strategies for overcoming burnout in leadership to sustain your passion and performance. Explore the powerful connection between personal fulfillment and professional success to elevate your career satisfaction. Embrace the role of culture and inclusion in innovative leadership to foster creativity and breakthrough solutions. My special guest is Dr. Esther Zeledón Dr. Esther Zeledón is a globally recognized life and leadership coach, bestselling author, and former U.S. diplomat. With a Ph.D. from UC Berkeley and decades of impact in international development, she's worked with governments, NGOs, and global corporations alike. Featured on Univision, Ticker News, Medium, and top 1–5% podcasts, Dr. Z empowers leaders to unlock their limitless potential through a powerful blend of neuroscience, strategy, and soulful insight. The key moments in this episode are:00:00:00 - Introduction to Trauma-Informed Leadership and Global Impact 00:04:19 - Reflections on Venezuelan Elections and the Importance of Collective Action 00:09:32 - U.S. Political Unity and Leadership Transition Insights 00:13:30 - Challenges and Opportunities in Diverse Political Coalitions 00:03:46 - Introducing Dr. Esther Zeledón: Strategist, Scientist, and Global Leadership Coach 00:14:43 - Collective Action and Individual Clarity for Social Change 00:18:20 - Empowering Communities Through Shared Vision and Ownership 00:21:33 - Challenging Scarcity Mentality in Immigration Narratives 00:24:50 - The Impact of Scarcity vs. Abundance Mindsets on Society 00:26:57 - Early Social Conditioning Shapes Scarcity or Abundance Mindsets 00:27:55 - Overcoming Scarcity Mindset and Embracing Abundance 00:29:23 - Immigration Realities and the Importance of Inner Work 00:32:43 - Personal Immigration Story and Access to Healthcare 00:35:46 - Navigating Systems, Networks, and Immigrant Challenges 00:38:01 - Bilingualism, Discrimination, and Overcoming Educational Barriers 00:40:36 - Overcoming Bias and Authenticity in Leadership 00:42:08 - Challenging Leadership Stereotypes and the Need for DEI Awareness 00:44:11 - Writing "Creating Your Limitless Life" to Inspire and Empower 00:48:02 - Navigating Scarcity Mindset and Building Empathy for Change 00:50:56 - Resources for Personal Growth and Creating a Limitless Life Send this episode to five people who care about making the world better. Tap 5 stars, and leave a quick review for the podcast. Join the Master the Career Pivot course at LoriAdamsBrown.com/CareerPivot. (Use the code: Different to get 10% off.) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How La Creme de la STEM is Empowering Female Founders with Marion Siboni

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 30, 2025 40:55

Join us for a riveting conversation with Marion Siboni, the founder and CEO of La Creme de la STEM - a global private network supporting early-stage female founders in science, technology, engineering, and math. In this episode, we dive into Marion's own entrepreneurial journey, marked by bold career pivots and a relentless drive to create change. Hear how she navigated the male-dominated tech industry, overcame self-doubt, and built a thriving community of over 4,000 women in just 12 months.Marion shares her unique perspective on the power of networking, the importance of self-advocacy, and why she's on a mission to empower more women to take the leap into entrepreneurship. Discover the strategies she's using to demystify the funding process and provide a supportive, judgment-free space for female founders to grow their businesses.To learn more about Creme de la STEM go to: https://lacremedelastem.substack.com/https://www.lacremedelastem.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/marionsiboni/https://www.linkedin.com/company/lacremedelastemText me your thoughts on this episode!Enjoy the show? Don't miss an episode, listen and subscribe via Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Leave me a review in Apple Podcasts. Connect with me Book a free hour-long consultation with me. You'll leave with your custom blueprint to confidence, and we'll ensure it's a slam-dunk fit for you before you commit to working with me 1:1. Connect with me on LinkedIn Email me at jamie@jamieleecoach.com

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378 - Neuropathy, Cancer and A Career Pivot: The Dana Cardinas Story

Podiatry Legends Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 30, 2025 55:12

Dana Cardinas loved podiatry, and she was damn good at it. But a surprise diagnosis of idiopathic ulnar neuropathy, followed by a shocking discovery of Stage 3C colon cancer, forced her to step away from the profession she adored. In this episode, Dana opens up about how she handled early retirement, battled cancer, and found purpose again through helping others and launching a new business, 1 Stop Promotional Products. From laughing down clinic hallways to launching a neuropathy support group that's changing lives in Colontown, Dana proves that purpose doesn't end with a job title. If you're a podiatrist, business owner, or just someone navigating life's curveballs, this conversation is for you. Please visit the Podiatry Legends Podcast website to read more and see photos. If you're enjoying the Podiatry Legends Podcast, please tell your podiatry friend and consider subscribing. If you're looking for a speaker for an upcoming event, please email me at tyson@podiatrylegends.com, and we can discuss the range of topics I cover. Don't forget to look at my UPCOMING EVENTS Do You Want A Little Business Guidance? A podiatrist I spoke with in early 2024 earned an additional $40,000 by following my advice from a 30-minute free Zoom call. Think about it: you have everything to gain and nothing to lose, and it's not a TRAP. I'm not out to get you, I'm here to help you. Please follow the link below to my calendar and schedule a free 30-minute Zoom call. I guarantee that after we talk, you will have far more clarity on what is best for you, your business and your career. ONLINE CALENDAR Business Coaching I offer three coaching options: Monthly Scheduled Calls. Hourly Ad Hoc Sessions. On-Site TEAM Training Days around communication, leadership and marketing. But let's have a chat first to see what best suits you. ONLINE CALENDAR Facebook Group: Podiatry Business Owners Club Have you grabbed a copy of one of my books yet? 2014 – It's No Secret There's Money in Podiatry 2017 – It's No Secret There's Money in Small Business Un-edited Transcript Tyson E Franklin: [00:00:00] Hi, I am Tyson Franklin and welcome to this week's episode of the Podiatry Legends Podcast. The podcast designed to help you feel, see, and think differently about the Podiatry profession. With me today is an old friend, well...not that old. We've only known each other for about 12 years. It is Dana Cardinas, and we met in 2013 in Nashville, Tennessee, at REM Jackson's top practices. But our friendship got bonded even more from about 2015 onwards, when we were at Dave Free's business Black Ops event, which people have heard that I go to on a regular basis. So Dana, how you doing today? Dana Cardinas: I'm so good. I'm so happy to be here, Tyson. Thank you. Oh my gosh, I'm so excited. Tyson E Franklin: I knew you'd bring the energy and I should mention to people that Dana lives in Texas, so there is a slight accent. Dana Cardinas: Yes, most definitely. And I apologize for my attire today. I literally just got out of the pool. It's hot and it's summertime and it was pool time tonight, so, yes. Tyson E Franklin: [00:01:00] So are you born and bred Texan? Dana Cardinas: Yeah, I was born and raised in central Texas. Yes. On a ranch. 300 acre ranch? Tyson E Franklin: I have seen photos of you driving tractors. Dana Cardinas: Yes. Yeah. So most recently convinced my dad to teach me how to drive the bulldozer. So finally was able to get on that machine after 50 something years. Tyson E Franklin: He wouldn't let you drive it? Dana Cardinas: No. He's very protective of that thing, so understandably he didn't want me to take it out any fences, but I did pretty good for my first go. Tyson E Franklin: So what we're gonna be talking about today, I'm gonna tell give people a bit of a rundown. We're gonna talk about what got you into Podiatry and also what got you out of Podiatry and what you're currently doing now, which I think is pretty cool. So yeah, let's go to that first question. Why Podiatry? How did you get into Podiatry in the first place? Dana Cardinas: So I always, my entire life, since I was wee little, I wanted to be a doctor. I didn't have a specific profession. I just knew I wanted to be a [00:02:00] doctor. But as I went through undergrad and spent time shadowing different professions I narrowed down things that I didn't wanna do. I knew I didn't wanna do certain things, and after I graduated from undergrad I needed, I just needed some time to figure out what was gonna be next. While I was studying for my MCATs, getting ready to, try to get into med school. And I worked in a large Podiatry practice in Carrollton, Texas. And I loved it. I absolutely loved it. And I started, just in their front office answering phones. I needed a job to pay bills, and I went from answering phones to being a medical assistant because I was very interested in what they were doing back there. And at one point, one of the docs pulled me aside and said, Dana, you need to do [00:03:00] this for a living because you're diagnosing and treating my patients. And really, you should be paid for it if you're gonna do it. And I, and we had a long talk about it, and I really picked his brain about why he wanted to be a Podiatry. Yeah. What did he get outta it? Why did he like it? And what was happening in Podiatry that I didn't see and what did I not know? I really wanted to know about it. Tyson E Franklin: That's a really good question though that you asked because Yeah. I do think sometimes when people are choosing careers or even when they're in Podiatry now and they may have only been in for a couple of years and go, oh, I don't know if I should keep doing this. They need to talk to people. Yeah. Even if they'd send an email and say, can we jump on a Zoom call with someone like myself, it's been in the profession for well over 30 years is reach out to those people and say, why are you, why did you stay in this profession for so long? When I feel like giving it away after two or three years. Dana Cardinas: Right. And he and that is key, honestly for any profession. Honestly. I think it's reaching out to people in your [00:04:00] profession and asking them, if you're burned out, find out, what's the other person doing that They love it so much, that they can help you. But this practice had seven docs in it. I talked to all of them and they all had such good things to say about the specialty. They loved it. And that from a doc that had been out for two years to, I wanna say, the one doc that started the group had been out for 30 something years. So at the time, so like they were in it, they loved it, they loved the business side of it, but they loved treating the patients. Just the whole aspect of it. Yeah. So that's when I said, okay I'm doing this because I really liked it. I just, I loved the idea that you could see a patient. And maybe fix their problem right away. Maybe it was just a simple ingrow toenail boom, you fixed it and they feel better. Or you could offer them something that wasn't [00:05:00] surgically, related like orthotics or just talking to them about improved running, anything like that could just make them feel better almost instantly. But then there was also that other side of it for me that really grabbed my attention was. Taking something structural that wasn't working right and fixing it so that they could function either without pain or more appropriately. So, that, that was a big draw for me. That was my draw. Okay. 'cause that was, I loved working with my hands. Again, I grew up. That way. I didn't grow up in the city. I grew up on a farm and we fixed things and so I, that was my track. And so that's how I got into Podiatry. So I applied to four or five different schools. And so I ended up going to Temple University of Philadelphia. Which blew my mind. I was not from a [00:06:00] size of a city that big, so that was like, a culture shock for this West Texas girl. But I loved it. I loved every bit of it. I just soaked it up. I traveled while I was there a ton, but I also made such great friends, but I really. I really just dove right in it, man. I dove right in it. I wanted to know everything about Podiatry and loved it. Went to residency back here in Texas, so a year in San Antonio, and then two years with lake Great Sam Mendocino in Houston. God rest that guy. But from that point knew that, okay, this is where I was supposed to be. Yeah. This is what I was supposed to be doing. And then ended up in practice in Grapevine, fantastic practice in Grapevine and we grew that practice to two locations actually. So we had one in Grapevine and one in Keller. So I joined Foot Ankle Associates of North Texas and then ended up [00:07:00] becoming a partner there about a year and a half after I joined. So yeah, it was awesome. Loved it. And that's Tyson E Franklin: where you were, right up through to you finishing? Dana Cardinas: Yeah. Yeah, absolutely. And I really didn't have plans of retiring when I did, yeah. I just didn't have an option. Tyson E Franklin: We'll get to that in a sec. But the one thing I noticed when I first met you too and why we've probably remained friends is I've always loved your energy. And if, and I'm sure people whether watching the video on YouTube or they're listening to the podcast, they can pick up your energy. Yes. And I would say that was a big part of what made you a good Podiatry too. You took that energy into the room. Dana Cardinas: I did. I who I am is exactly who I was when I walked into a patient's room. It didn't matter if you were three years old or 103 years old, you got the same me. And we smiled and we laughed and we talked about [00:08:00] your life not mine. And we talked about your kids and your family and I got to know you. And when some of my patients hit huge milestones in their treatment, whether that be my diabetic patients when we healed ulcers or we saved limb. Or my ankle fracture patients, when they could actually put their boots back on and go back to work. We would dance down the halls. Yeah, we would party down the hall. That's who I was. And that's, you got this when you came to see me, which was usually quite a mess, let me tell you that. It was fun. Tyson E Franklin: I just love it. And you worked for a couple of years at the practice that you ended up becoming a partner in, was that always part of your plan to become a partner or you never even thought about that? It took you by surprise that they wanted this loud text and, Hey, by the way, is everyone in Texas loud? Dana Cardinas: No. Tyson E Franklin: No. Okay. Most Dana Cardinas: of us are. Yes. [00:09:00] Yes. Most of us are. There are just some that are a little louder than others. But yeah. Yes. Tyson E Franklin: Are you one of the louder ones? Dana Cardinas: Yeah. Tyson E Franklin: Yeah. Okay. Just checking. Just wanted to check, just see. So I'm prepared in December. Get ready man. Tyson E Franklin: So, so when they approached you by buying in the practice, were you sort of like, yeah, that's great. That's what I was hoping would happen. Or did it take by surprise? Dana Cardinas: I think timing wise took me by surprise 'cause it happened a little sooner than what I thought. But the way the three of us at the time, there was only three of us. We just were, we jelled so well together that it just seemed like a natural fit for that to happen. And so it, it was perfect timing. And I, in residency, you always heard, oh, you wanna be a partner in a practice, that's where you wanna head. And now looking back on it and talking to other, my residency mates that were not partners in a [00:10:00] practice because they chose not to go that route, that it didn't fit their lifestyle. So I would say anybody listening, you don't feel like if you're not a partner, you're not successful by any means. Yeah. It just might not be the track that it fits your life for us. In that particular moment, it was perfect. It was the right scenario for us to do that. And it worked out phenomenal. Tyson E Franklin: Yeah I think that's a really good point because I think some people meant to be business owners, like I was always meant to work for myself . I just always knew that was gonna happen. And the funny part is. Neither of my parents owned their own business. Nobody in my family that I even know had their own business. So why I was that way. I have no idea that was just me. Yeah. But I think there's certain people that they should never own their own business. They should stay as employees because they are really good employees. Yeah. And what, like you said too, it's a different level of pressure you get when you are actually the business owner that when you're an employee, [00:11:00] you go away on your four weeks holiday, you don't have to think about anything. Dana Cardinas: Yeah, right. Tyson E Franklin: Two weeks in America, you only get two weeks holiday in America, don't you? Dana Cardinas: It depends on how much you negotiate, man. Tyson E Franklin: But in general. In general, in America, two weeks is all you get. Dana Cardinas: Depends. Most of the docs that we, you know, when we brought in docs as associates, we gave them three weeks in the beginning. So I, that's pretty good. Tyson E Franklin: But yeah, two weeks in, in Australia. In Australia, mandatory, four, four weeks holiday. Dana Cardinas: I honestly, I'm not gonna lie, everybody should move to Australia. Numerous reasons just to like hear you guys speak all the time. But if you can get four weeks automatic man, sign me up. Tyson E Franklin: Being an employer, you used to sometimes go, god dammit, when people are on holidays. But as a society, I think it's a fantastic thing because you need to have those mental breaks away from your business. And this is a problem that business owners don't do, is they work from morning [00:12:00] till night. They don't take holidays, they do it year after year and they burn themselves out. And I think you've gotta have that break. Dana Cardinas: Right. And it's hard as a business owner to take the break. It's hard to walk away 'cause you're you get in this, in your mind that, I'm not making any money if I'm not there and if I've got to have the money so I can't take off. You just get into that cycle, but when you take the time away is when you have clarity and you can think, and then you usually end up making better decisions, which make you more money in the long run. Tyson E Franklin: Yeah I remember my first, we, I'd take a week off here and there but it wasn't until, I think it was 2012. I took my first three week break. Away from clinic, went overseas, went to America, did the trifecta of Disneyland, Las Vegas, and then San Francisco. Dana Cardinas: Oh my gosh. That's amazing. Tyson E Franklin: And I had a daughter with us and my wife and [00:13:00] we went with another family. Had such a good trip. I came back to work and nothing had changed. Everyone was still working, in fact. Right. They were probably enjoying me not being there better. And from that year onwards, I realized I can take time off. So I was taking two, three week holidays a couple of times a year. Never looked back. Right, right. So I think you gotta trust, you gotta trust your team. Dana Cardinas: Yeah. And that's it too, like. If you build a team that you've trained well, they know what they're doing. They know how to handle the situations, and they know how, like who to call when they don't know the answer. Like that situation's gonna come up. But when you've got that training in place. Oh, you can leave. Trust me. They want you to go, they want you to go. They do, but you're getting cranky and you're getting agitated and they want you out as much as you need to take a [00:14:00] break. Tyson E Franklin: Oh, yeah. But I totally get it. And I totally understand if someone is a solo practitioner and they feel that they can't do it. But I think if you're a solo practitioner, go back to one of my earliest episodes on this podcast. It was episode 10 with Andrew Snyder and it's running a successful solo practice. This guy is the most relate. He's been doing this for 30 years or something. Now. Love that guy. Solo practitioner. Tyson E Franklin: Has never employed another Podiatry. He goes to Disneyland more often than anybody else I know, right? Right. Tyson E Franklin: If you're a solo practitioner, go back and listen to episode 10 because it will change the way you think about having a solo practice. Dana Cardinas: Yeah. Oh yeah. A super good friend of mine that we went to residency together, he was a solo practitioner for, gosh. At least 10 years before he brought on an associate. Tyson E Franklin: [00:15:00] Yeah. Dana Cardinas: And in the beginning he was this, I can't take, I can't leave, but once he figured out, okay I've got someone local that can cover my call if I'm out, they can take phone calls for patients that, call in after hours or have an emergency, whatever it might be. So he had coverage for that. They didn't come in the office, but it was just a quick phone call if necessary. He, when he figured that out. He would take vacation about once every eight weeks. It might be a short little, like four day or thing. Yeah. But he was gone somewhere and his practice grew immensely. Just simply because he was getting that mental break because it, let's just get real, it's not easy, Tyson E Franklin: no. To Dana Cardinas: do what we do. It's Tyson E Franklin: not. And it's one of those things too. Every patient that comes through the door could be a potential lawsuit. [00:16:00] And that's something that's, and that's why we have insurance and that Right. But we choose this profession and Right. And you know that 99.999% of patients come in. That is never going to happen. Dana Cardinas: No, it's never gonna happen. Right. And majority Tyson E Franklin: of patients are nice. Dana Cardinas: Right. Majority or. There's always a potential that patient's gonna walk in your front door that you don't know is going to absolutely kill your day. Just kill it. It's over done. There goes the schedule. Forget it. You're not getting home till way late because that one person entered your office, but it's what we signed up for. Yeah, and honestly i'm not gonna lie, I don't think I'm not different than anybody else. I think we thrive on that a little bit. I think we do love that little bit of excitement it's like you get excited about walking in that door to the patient room of, okay, what kind of shit am I gonna see on this one? Yeah. Like, what crazy crap did this guy just do that I'm [00:17:00] gonna have to fix? And that was always my favorite. Tyson E Franklin: That's the thing I think in life in general you, everybody wants a certain amount of certainty, which you need. It makes you feel comfortable and secure, but you also need that little bit of uncertainty to keep life interesting. And I, yeah, and I feel when I hear someone's, oh, I'm bored with Podiatry, I wanna leave. It's the same thing, day in, day out, I'm going, we need to, you need to change things up. Yes. Tyson E Franklin: It's obviously what, however you are running your day, you've got too much certainty. You need a little bit of uncertainty to spice things up a little bit. And that doesn't mean just going walking into work and sack somebody and create chaos. It's just your approach to work. Dana Cardinas: Yeah. Tyson E Franklin: Hey, make it a little bit different. Dana Cardinas: I totally agree. And that might be why you're bored. Tyson E Franklin: Yeah. Oh yeah. I like, if I wanted to, I could pick a certain part of Podiatry, keep doing that, and I would be bored, senseless. I needed different types of patients coming through with different types of injuries to make it interesting. Yes. But some days I did wanna just switch my brain off. Yeah, [00:18:00] I did wanna to use it. Yeah. Tyson E Franklin: So, okay, I'm gonna pivot slightly because you love Podiatry so much. Everyone must be listening to this. You hear your energy, your enthusiasm, you loved it, and why'd you leave? Dana Cardinas: So, in December about mid-December of 20 2015, and I thought I had carpal tunnel. I, my hands were just killing me at night. In, in, in here, in the us. The end of the year is always slamming busy because everybody's met their deductibles. They want everything done before the end of the year. Okay? And so we are all just maxed out. We've had surgery schedules full for three months or more. Patients are just like, I gotta get in, I gotta, again, I got it in. So we're busy and we make it happen. That's what we do. We make it happen. So I would go to bed at night and , wear these wraps on my [00:19:00] wrist because it just felt better. I kept thinking, all right, I gotta go get this checked out. My hands just really hurt. But the next day I was like, it's okay. It's not hurting as much. But by the end of a long surgery day, they were just, it was pain and it was pain, especially on my right that was going up to my elbow. And I was like, all right I just gotta go get this checked out. So get through December, I'm in the first week. January and I, it was fairly quiet, which was unusual, and I had one case booked on a Friday afternoon, and it was a tiny fifth toe arthroplasty. Literally anybody that does these on a regular basis, skin to skin, you're looking at max. Six minutes to me. Yeah. That was me, max. Boom. It's not hard. And it took me 20 minutes and I couldn't feel [00:20:00] what I was doing and I was terrified. And I, it had, I had another case, I would have canceled it. And I left, I got in the car and I called the office. Canceled all of my cases that were coming up. Put 'em onto one of the other partners and called my friend, who's a neurologist and said, I'm coming over something's wrong. And she was awesome. I had actually done surgery on her two, two years prior because she had some really cool ganglion cyst on her foot, which was amazing. But another story. And so she's yeah, come on over. She did a, what is that nerve conduction study? Yeah. On me. And she's Dana, how long have you had this? And I was like, this week, like today, like I today. And she's like, how did this not, how did you not see this happening? Because as she showed me at the time, and I'll show you my hands in the camera, all I had [00:21:00] lost the muscle mass on both of my hands. Along my thumb, especially along my ulnar side on my right, a little bit more or a little bit on my left. And the nerve conduction study showed that I had severe ulnar neuropathy on both sides. She's like, that doesn't just happen overnight. I'm like, I'm telling you. I had pain, but I could feel until today. And so, we did some further studies and over the next, the course of next two to three weeks and then really realized that what I had was not gonna be reversible. I had severe loss of my muscles in my hands, but also nerve damage. I didn't have an option, but I had to retire. If you Tyson E Franklin: had picked it up earlier, could you have prevented this from happening or was it inevitable that it was going to happen? Dana Cardinas: Well, it was inevitable [00:22:00] because I didn't know what I had at the time. Yeah. Which as we'll continue the conversation you'll hear. At she diagnosed me with idiopathic ulnar neuropathy. Because we went through all the tests, all the blood work tests, the MRIs of my neck, you name it, trying to find a reason for this to have happened suddenly , which we never came up with a reason. I ended up getting an ulnar release on my right side that helped the pain. And, but I was officially retired March 31st. Of 2016. So within 90 days I found out I had basically permanent neuropathy in my hands. That was with a sudden onset and I was retired, but out. Tyson E Franklin: How old were you then? Dana Cardinas: I was, at the time I was 46. Tyson E Franklin: Unexpected. Yeah. Dana Cardinas: Very unexpected. That was not on the [00:23:00] bingo card for that year, Tyson at all. Tyson E Franklin: It's, yeah, it's like those yeah, one of those things like death pill, you people bet on who's gonna pass away that year. You never would've thought in 2015 and we had caught up in October, 2015. Yeah, within six months you'd be retired. That'd be it. And I still remember the photo of us in 2015 where I had my cactus shirt on. Remember before, before we went out into the desert and you thought it was hilarious. Dana Cardinas: I just, that photo just popped up on my phone as a memory the other day. Yes. Tyson E Franklin: It is a great photo. Dana Cardinas: It's the best. Yeah. And Tyson E Franklin: I always tell people that too, that it's one of those things, just life in general, you don't know. What's going to happen. And it's, and you can't sit there in fear thinking, oh, is this going to happen? But every now and then you will be thrown a, a curve ball and it's how you bounce back. Dana Cardinas: Right. It's true. I I was not expecting the curve balls that would happen [00:24:00] after that. Tyson E Franklin: Yeah, for sure. I know there were more curve balls. Dana Cardinas: And they kept coming for a while. But, so here I am, I'm done. I had no idea what I was gonna do next. So tried a few things here and there, but it just didn't, that, it just didn't, wasn't supposed to pan out, to be honest. It just wasn't supposed to because. In January of 2018 I was having some pain in my abdomen, my lower abdomen like right lower quadrant pain, and I kept putting it off to, oh, it's probably gas. It's probably this, it's what we all do as physicians. Ah, I'm fine. It's whatever. Yeah. We think we know. And so, my wife Becky said, will you just go get it checked out? You are really complaining about it, you should actually get it checked out. So I go see the GI doc, explain what I've got going [00:25:00] on, and he was like, you know what? It sounds like it's nothing because I did have a history of like acid reflux and some GI stuff. And he is like, it's probably nothing but let's just do an upper or lower endoscopy and let's just see. Tyson E Franklin: Yeah. And were you the, and were you the windy one in the relationship? Dana Cardinas: Yes, most definitely. Tyson E Franklin: And that's why always when you had that pain, first thing you think, oh, it's just gas again, right? Yeah. Dana Cardinas: Just gas, whatever. Yeah. And so, I won't ever forget January 8th, 2018, I have my scopes and as I'm laying in recovery, waking up, I hear the GI Doc tell Becky. The upper is fine. She has colon cancer though. She has a large tumor in her colon. And I was like, and I just remember laying there thinking what the, [00:26:00] I have cancer. Tyson E Franklin: Yeah. Be thinking of the same thing. Dana Cardinas: I have cancer, like the real cancer. And so, Tyson E Franklin: the real one. Dana Cardinas: Yeah, like the real one. So I ended up he couldn't complete the colonoscopy because the tumor was too big for him to pass it. So, that, that day was a blur. And then the next day I called my friend, who was a colorectal surgeon that I sat on a board with at one of the hospitals. And said, cliff guess what? I need you. And he basically said, I'll see you in the morning. And then right after that phone call, I called my good friend who is an oncologist who I used to call. When I got those reports back, you know when you do biopsies in the office and it comes back melanoma and you're like, oh shit, melanoma on a [00:27:00] toe. I don't need to be seeing this. Yeah. This is not my, she was the one that I would call to say, Heidi, who's the best oncologist? Oncological surgeon that needs this. She was my sounding board when I got those strange things back, and so I called her and said, Heidi. Guess what? I need you. And she said, okay, I'll see you when Cliff is done with you. And they literally became my team overnight. And they talked to each other before I even got to the, his office the next morning. They had a plan in place for me. And so I had CT scans. The next day saw him. I've come to find out I had a very large tumor that was over 10 inches long, and it was almost 99% occluding in my colon. So likely had I gone another couple of weeks, a month I probably would [00:28:00] not be here. Yeah. Because Dana Cardinas: it, it would've just ended me. So, then. Fast forward after that, he did surgery. I lost 27 inches of my ascending and transverse colon, but he was able to reconnect re anastomosis both ends so that I did not end up with a bag, which I wasn't excited about, if I was gonna have to have one. But if it kept me alive, okay, fine. Me, I would've made a ton of jokes out of it, and it would've been like, Tyson E Franklin: Oh, you've carried around like a handbag. Dana Cardinas: Oh God, yes. It would've happened. Yeah. But for me it did not have to happen. So, once I healed from that, six weeks later started chemo, went through eight months of chemo that was probably the worst thing I've ever been through. Because now let's flash back a little bit. Yeah. On the neuropathy part. [00:29:00] Okay. We didn't know at the time in 2016 why I had neuropathy. But after I retired and before I found out I was diagnosed with cancer, I kept breaking out on these full body hives. And I don't mean like itty bitty tiny hives, hives, massive four six inches hives all over my body. I was going through the treatment of trying to figure out what environmental food, what allergy did I have that was causing this. But in talking with my oncologist, she put all of my picture together. And what I had was perine neoplastic syndrome, which is rare. But it's the cancer that I had growing in me that I didn't know I had. Was causing the hives that gave me the wonderful neuropathy and a few other things. And so that's so that Tyson E Franklin: there are all signs of something else was actually happening anyway. Dana Cardinas: Yes. I just didn't, I just didn't know that's, and per neoplastic syndrome is something that is diagnosed. After the [00:30:00] fact. It is rarely something that some physician would put together and say, oh, you have cancer because you have all these things happening. Yeah. It just doesn't work that way. Yeah. Tyson E Franklin: Real cancer. Dana Cardinas: Real cancer. Yeah. Tyson E Franklin: A another friend of mine exactly the same diagnosis around exactly the same time and that's why I, I. Way back. I wanted to get you on here way, way back. And I said the same thing to him. I wanted to get him on the podcast as well. And he's not with us anymore. Right? Tyson E Franklin: He didn't, he he got the bag and last time I saw him was actually on my birthday. I had to make him breakfast on my birthday. At his house? Yeah, at his house. 'cause he said, I want your favorite breakfast that you make. And I saw him then. He said, oh, they've told me I've got heaps of time. I'm gonna beat this. Everything's gonna be absolutely fantastic. And five weeks later he passed away. Dana Cardinas: Yeah. Tyson E Franklin: [00:31:00] And so, yeah, that, and that's why, Dana Cardinas: and I'm, I'm sorry, I'm sorry to hear that. Tyson, I, that breaks my heart, Tyson E Franklin: but Oh geez. That's why I think it's important to talk about this. Dana Cardinas: It's hugely important because I'm lucky. Tyson E Franklin: Yeah. Dana Cardinas: I know I'm lucky. I, when I was diagnosed stage three C. So I only had one more stage to go before I was stage four, and I was lucky that it had not spread to any other organs. But that was that I'm lucky in two regards in educating myself on colon cancer because as I was diagnosed, yeah, once you get past that first initial part of it and you get a plan. Once you get a plan, it's almost, that's when you can breathe. You can't breathe until you get a plan. But once you know [00:32:00] the, these, X, Y, and Z need to happen, and this is when we're gonna do it. That's when I started researching and and finding out more about the diagnosis and what does it mean and what does treatment mean and what am I looking at here? What, where am I gonna be here? And so, I was lucky enough that, someone else who had a family member that was going through colon cancer. She this wonderful person connected me with her and through her I got connected with a wonderful organization called Colon Town. And Colon Town is an online um, resource for patients that are going through colon cancer, but it's also for the caregivers and the, your, the spouses, the friends, anybody who is either affected by it, is a patient, any of [00:33:00] that. You can go to colontown.org to get more information about it. But I dove into it and it's right now it is on online, on Facebook. It's private. So you, everything we discuss in there, you, nobody else is gonna see it. It's just us. They are working their way off to a separate platform. That's even better, to be honest. But so I dove into it. And it made me feel better because I could talk to other people that were just like me, that were going through exactly what I was going through. But what the crazy part Tyson is while I'm going through chemo and my dang numbness is getting worse because the chemo that we have to go on that keeps us alive. Its number one side effect is peripheral neuropathy. Okay. And cold sensitivity. Oh God, it sucked. Oh, so my neuropathy went off the charts. Like, Tyson E Franklin: I shouldn't, I shouldn't be giggling when you say that. I, but you Dana Cardinas: [00:34:00] can because you, I mean you, oh God. The stories. But I would have my, had I ended up with full facial numbness, my tongue was numb most of the time. My, my chest was numb. Just there wasn't much of me that wasn't numb except my butt. Go figure. So there were so many questions that would come up in this group about how to deal with neuropathy that I noticed I was answering them because it was what we treated. And I knew the answer and I knew what could help. 'cause I was helping myself. That I reached out, eventually reached out to the creators of Colontown because in Colontown there's these little neighborhoods. So if you're stage four, you're in a certain neighborhood, so you can just have those specific conversations. Or if you are a certain genotype, then you have those conversations in that trials group maybe. And so I said, Hey, can I start a group for neuropathy? And they were like, yes, please, because we all have it. [00:35:00] And so I started a group inside Colon Town that is only for neuropathy and I it. Warms my heart because we have, within that group now created some treatment processes for those that are now going through chemo with the certain drug that we have to take where we now ice our hands and our feet so that it's reducing the neuropathy that people are getting now. And we started that as a patient led. Research project basically, and it is now becoming standard of care and it's the most fucking awesome thing I think I've ever done in my life. Tyson E Franklin: I think that is absolutely fantastic and what I like about it is you've used your knowledge in your experience as a Podiatry to actually help this group of people. Dana Cardinas: Yeah. Tyson E Franklin: I didn't see [00:36:00] that Dana Cardinas: coming. Tyson E Franklin: Yeah. Right. Dana Cardinas: Unexpectedly. I didn't see it coming. Tyson E Franklin: Yeah. I always say everything's supposed to happen for a reason. Exactly. And sometimes I do question a lot of things that happen and I like to think there's a reason behind it. Yeah. My dad passed away when he was 49. I was only 17. I kept thinking, where's the reason? And that, yeah, Tyson E Franklin: there's certain things I changed in my life around that time afterwards that I wouldn't, probably wouldn't be doing what I'm doing now or had the career I had if. I hadn't got that kick back then. Yeah. I would've had a different path that I was on. So I think it's the same with you. You've had a few crazy things happen and now you're on this completely different path. So when did you get the the tick, the all clear Dana Cardinas: so I got the all clear? October of 2018. That we call it no evidence of disease. Yeah. Because I'm a stage three CI never get cured. I, I will forever, my whole life be monitored. [00:37:00] But I've been clear ever since. I just saw the, my oncologist, in fact, I retired, my friend she left me to go travel the world and so I'm working, I'm breaking in a new one, and I like her a Tyson E Franklin: lot. So how often needs to get checked? Dana Cardinas: So now I just graduated, so once a year. Woo. It's awesome. Tyson E Franklin: That is good news. Dana Cardinas: I know it is. Tyson E Franklin: So now, now you've got through all that and retired from Podiatry, your Helping ColonTown I, oh, by the way, I love that t-shirt. Was that your design? That t-shirt? Dana Cardinas: The. Tyson E Franklin: The one I read out before that says colorectal cancer awareness, because that shit matters. That shit matters. Yes. Tyson E Franklin: That's a great t-shirt. And then you've got, on the t-shirt, you've got all the names of what people who have had colon cancer, what they would call their poo. Dana Cardinas: Yeah, their poo. And Tyson E Franklin: I like dookie. I haven't heard dookie for a while. [00:38:00] Dana Cardinas: Oh my gosh. The stink pickle. That's my favorite one. Tyson E Franklin: That's my favorite one. I like the Corn Eyed butt snake that this is all by the way. People just let you know this is all on a t-shirt, which I think is very funny. Um, Code brown goat pellets nuggets. Dana Cardinas: I did, I asked all of my friends, okay, what do you call it? And I had my good friend Lauren, who is a graphic artist I said, okay, Lauren, here's all the name here. Here's what we call it. And I used the poop emoji and put it all in there. And he did a phenomenal job. Tyson E Franklin: In the show notes, I'm gonna put a copy of this shirt, the front and back because it is a hilarious shirt. And I think you give everyone a bit of a laugh too. I like the head of, they have put here turd. It's basic. It's basic. It's very basic. And somebody else did put shit. Dana Cardinas: Yes. Tyson E Franklin: Basics. I dunno what a shoey is. That's a little bit weird. In Australia shoe's called a [00:39:00] Completely a shoey is drinking a beer out of a, out of a jogger. That's called a shoey. Oh Dana Cardinas: No. A shoe chewy that, yeah, that's a stinky one. Yeah. Whoof, that's That's a big one. Tyson E Franklin: Yeah. Ah, that's like shoe fly pie. Dana Cardinas: No, Tyson E Franklin: No, that's completely different. That's actually quite nice. Dana Cardinas: Good. That's awesome. Have you had Tyson E Franklin: that? Have you had shoe fly pie? I Dana Cardinas: did when I was in Philly. Yes. Yeah. Tyson E Franklin: Yes. That's pretty good in the I got it. Good. I got it from this town called Intercourse. Dana Cardinas: I, that's where I had it too. That's right next to Birden hand. Tyson E Franklin: Yeah. Where the arm where the Amish. The Amish had the shop there. Yes. And they were selling shoe fly pie where I Dana Cardinas: had it. Yeah. That's awesome. Tyson E Franklin: And people don't think this podcast is education. Dana Cardinas: There's so much education here. Tyson E Franklin: Some people think this show's not educational. Dana Cardinas: Tyson, I could go on and on about poop. Tyson E Franklin: So now you have your own business. You've set up something else called One Stop [00:40:00] Promotional Products. And if people are looking for it, it's one. The number one. One stop promotional products.com. Dana Cardinas: Yes. Tyson E Franklin: People can go check it all out. Actually, Dana Cardinas: either way, you can put one, the number one or spill out one both ways. We'll get you there. Tyson E Franklin: Oh, cool. Okay. I wasn't quite sure. So OneStop promotional products.com. So this is your business that you're doing now. All promotional products? Yeah. You are servicing mostly America. Do you ship it overseas or anything like that? Dana Cardinas: No. Right now we're not doing anything overseas 'cause it's a little too crazy for that right now. Yeah. But we do we are. Mostly 95% B2B. And we love it. We love it. We have two airlines and 175 active companies that we work with monthly. Oh, cool. And adding more, we add more weekly. It's a lot of fun. Tyson E Franklin: Who? Yeah. Well, I'm gonna order something and pick it up when I come over. In December. Dana Cardinas: Oh my God. Oh my God. And I'm gonna put [00:41:00] a big stink pickle on it. I'm gonna say you that right now, Tyson E Franklin: but the get ready. So how did you get into this? What was the OO Obviously like you retired young. Dana Cardinas: Yeah. Tyson E Franklin: And you, did you end up selling the practice? Dana Cardinas: I sold my shares in the practice. So the other docs were still there practicing. Yeah. And so they were not ready to retire yet, obviously. No, they were still doing it. They were, they, we were all pretty much the same age, so they were still doing their thing. So I, I sold my shares and got out. Tyson E Franklin: Okay. And then being young, as you still are. In my eyes Dana Cardinas: absolutely Tyson E Franklin: is this, how, why you, we gotta do something else. And that's how this came about. Dana Cardinas: It was totally by accident, a hundred percent accident. I go going through the cancer thing. I didn't do anything that year. Obviously. Yeah. Dana Cardinas: But in 2019 my wife and I were. Talking about, well, you know, let's, let's do something for fun. I'm getting bored. I need to do something with my hands. I like building things. [00:42:00] And somebody said, Hey, what, why don't you get one of those cricket machines and make signs? And a cricket machine is like a machine that you can send a design to. And it'll cut it out for you and then you can, put the vinyl or whatever Yeah. On side. Okay. That sounds fun. Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. And so, I was just doing it for fun and our local Mexican food restaurant that we go to entirely too much. But I refuse to stop going. They were like family and they said, Hey, you're doing some fun stuff. Do, can you make t-shirts? Because their staff, their shirts were horrible. They were truly horrible. And I, that night, we said, you know what? We don't know how, but we'll figure it out. Yeah. Dana Cardinas: 'Cause they needed shirts, so we went home. We bought a cheap Amazon press. I watched about 10 YouTube videos and was like, screw it. Let's make some shirts. And so we literally did their, that year it was their Cinco de Mayo shirts and they all it said was [00:43:00] Margarita's Mexican restaurant on it. That's it, that's all it said. But we made them and they could not have been happier with them. And. Customer said, Hey, where'd you get your new shirt? And they said, Dana. And Becky. And then next thing you know, they, we got more business and more business. And it got to where we said we might need to figure out how to do this with more professional equipment. Yeah. And Dana Cardinas: so we upgraded to more professional equipment, as you can see behind me. Tyson E Franklin: Yep. You can see it all there. Dana Cardinas: And now we run two heat presses, two professional heat presses on a regular base daily and just added this fabulous two head embroidery machine behind me. So we didn't have to outsource that anymore. And so, we do apparel, no minimums in house, which is awesome. But then if you need things like pens or name badges or you name it, literally anything you can think of, [00:44:00] lip balm. Lip balm. Yes. Lip balm. Lip balm. Dana Cardinas: We work with wholesalers for that and so we can, we have access to over 2 million products, which is fun. Tyson E Franklin: I know when I was on the website having a look around there was, it was so much fun looking at everything. And I was think as a Podiatry business, and I've got some Podiatry. One particular Podiatry friend called Carly who just loves swag. But Tyson E Franklin: anything that's branded and got names on it. Right. Just, Tyson E Franklin: and I must admit, I've got so many t-shirts, I've got like 200 t-shirts that I won't part with half my t-shirts. I've picked up at events, podcasting conferences and I just love, I'm the same thing. I just love that sort of stuff. Dana Cardinas: Right. Well, and the so again. Something I didn't see heading my way was all the things that I learned at top practices in day freeze and reading Jim Palmer, all those things. That is [00:45:00] now what we do. Tyson E Franklin: Yeah. Dana Cardinas: So we are that, that aspect of your business that keeps people top of mind. And that's the fun part because I have a little different spin on how we present products. I'm not gonna present you just a cheap cozy which a lot of companies will do because it's a cheap, cozy. Yeah. I'm gonna, if you are an electrician, I'm gonna present you something that is for your field that a customer is gonna want for the rest of their life they're never gonna get rid of. They're gonna keep it, and they're gonna call you over and over again. And that's why we keep getting business. Tyson E Franklin: Yeah that's a really good point. I've been to places where they'll have promotional products and it is cheap. I mean, You'll, you're trying, it's cheap. You're write with the pen and you've got RSI before you've written about the fourth word. 'cause it's just, there's so much resistance against the paper. Yeah. Or you'll bring something home [00:46:00] and your first time you use it, it just breaks. And to me, that makes a business look bad when they hand out crap swag. Exactly. Whereas if they hand a quality swag that you use again and again, then all of a sudden it, it actually puts that business in a positive light in your mind. Dana Cardinas: Right. And it keeps them top of mind. Yeah. Like, it truly does. Give them that up. Advantage over maybe somebody else. We and a lot of times I talk to customers, potential clients that say, okay, I want five different things. And I'm like, well, what's your budget? And they made me say, 500 bucks, $500. I'm like, all right, let's get one really good quality. Swag item. Yeah. For $500, let's not get a hundred of all these other little things, because all those other little things are gonna go in the trash. But this one really cool thing is gonna sit on somebody's desk and they're gonna look at it every day.[00:47:00] Tyson E Franklin: Yeah. I, well, I got stubby holders done stubby coolers. Your coozies as you call 'em over there 15 years ago before I sold the clinic. And I've still got a number of 'em here at home that I still use, and I've gone to people's places and I've seen them sitting with their stubby holders. Right. With a stubby in it. 15 years, after having them made. And they are still looking solid. They're still, yeah. Right. Dana Cardinas: Yeah. That's Tyson E Franklin: quality. Dana Cardinas: That's what we're all about. And that's one of our taglines is quality products only. That's the focus. Tyson E Franklin: I don't Dana Cardinas: want just walking around with a bunch of cheap shit. Let's go with some something good quality. Tyson E Franklin: Well think everyone listening to this, they that. To me that just applies to everything in life. Even your Podiatry business is provide a quality service. If you are gonna buy machinery, get the best that you can. Just get the best. Exactly. 'cause it will last longer. Give the patients the best. Whether it's covering [00:48:00] material or what you're getting the orthotics made of, just do, I think just always do the best you can. Dana Cardinas: Right, right. And if it costs a little bit more, explain to the patient or the customer who, whoever you're talking to. Tell them, okay, it's, it costs more because there's more going into this one. I've there's more time. The product's better. The craftsmanship is better. There's education behind it. It's not just, oh, I went online and ordered a pin from I don't know where, and I don't know who makes it and whatever. Spend the time and talk to your patients, especially because if there's something that you should be offering, but you're not because you don't think they'll buy it, they're buying it on Amazon, so why can't they buy it from you? But it's a better product if you're getting it from a reputable vendor or you know that, okay, this product is a better product than what they're getting on Amazon. Why can't they spend money with you versus Amazon? [00:49:00] Tyson E Franklin: It's true, and even the pen that I use most. This one is from a Podiatry clinic friend of mine, sole focus in Toowoomba. Nice. Dana Cardinas: Ooh. It is a, it is my God. SAT is my top seller. This is a Tyson E Franklin: beautiful pen to write with. And whenever I run out she usually sends me a few more. Dana Cardinas: I'll get you some. Tyson E Franklin: Just, they just really good pens. It just the feel of it. And because, and she got the whole pen done, like in her corporate colors, what her clinic is all about as well. And yeah. And she said the same thing. Wanted a quality pen, wanted something. When people write with it, they go, I want another one of these pens when they run out. And that's exactly what I do. But I do see it so she doesn't have to send it to me. I'll just pick some up next time I'm down there. So on. On that note, I want to thank you for coming on the podcast, sharing what got you into Podiatry, what got you out of Podiatry, which I think is just as important and what you're doing there. And like I said at the start, I just, I've [00:50:00] always loved your energy. Love chatting with you. You're so much fun to be around. Dana Cardinas: Thank you, Tyson. I, well, same is right back at you. I think as soon as we met. There was no doubt we were going to be destined to be lifelong friends because we laughed too much together. For sure. So, and before we get off, I will just say this if you are 45 or older and you haven't had a colonoscopy, please get one. They're not scary. All you do is poop the night, the day before and everybody poops. So it's, that's not scary. But get it done. And if you are not 45, but you're having symptoms force your doc to get you in to get it done you really just need to get it checked out. So, it'll save your life. Tyson E Franklin: That is fantastic. So I look forward to talking to you again soon. Oh, and I'll see you in December anyway. Dana Cardinas: Yes. Can't wait. Tyson E Franklin: Okay. Talk to you later. Bye. Dana Cardinas: Bye.

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From Burnout to Bold: How to Lead a Limitless Life Aligned with Your Values with Dr. Esther Zeledón (Re-release)

Branding Room Only with Paula T. Edgar

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 30, 2025 57:28

Career Pivots and Leadership Development with Lonita K. Baker

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 29, 2025 40:13

Presenting a strong personal brand as a leader is paramount, but it's about more than just perception. It's about how you operate and the value you bring. Lonita K. Baker understands this connection intimately. Her impactful career has spanned multiple sectors and roles, from public defender to prosecutor to representing Breonna Taylor's family, and now serving as Professor of Practice at the University of Louisville Brandeis School of Law and past president of the National Bar Association.Lonita's journey teaches us that career pivots aren't just possible, they're powerful when done with intention. She's reached her influential positions by staying true to her values, knowing her worth, and never compromising on being genuinely herself. Most importantly, she's learned that helping others isn't just good karma, it's good business.In this re-release, as the National Bar Association celebrates its centennial, Paula and Lonita discuss embracing leadership, making strategic career moves, and why knowing your value is non-negotiable. Whether you're considering a pivot, stepping into leadership, or simply wanting to build a more authentic personal brand, Lonita's insights will resonate.2:12 – How Lonita defines personal brand and why helping others has shaped her trajectory5:14 – Lonita's favorite Muhammad Ali quote and other Louisville connections you might not know8:23 – The '90s hip hop and gospel music that lifts Lonita up when she needs it10:12 – How Lonita embraced her leadership role and learned to own being "the badass that I am"14:24 – Why the Breonna Taylor case opened unexpected doors and led to her in-house position21:06 – The strategic thinking behind Lonita's move from public defender to prosecutor25:43 – Why flexibility and organizational alignment are crucial for ambitious professionals29:41 – Four essential pieces of advice for anyone wanting to ascend to leadership31:16 – What Lonita does for fun and the authentic brand aspect she'll never compromise36:00 – The empathetic quality that makes up Lonita's Branding Room Only magicMentioned In Career Pivots and Leadership Development with Lonita K. BakerDiva Attorney National Bar AssociationInformation on Breonna TaylorPaula Edgar National Bar Association Centennial Celebration Montage - YouTube Sign up for Paula's Upcoming WebinarsLearn More About Paula's Personal Branding Strategy Session OfferFollow & Review: Help others find the podcast. Subscribe and leave a quick review.Want more branding insights? Join Paula's newsletter for expert tips and exclusive content! Subscribe HereSponsor for this episodeThis episode is brought to you by PGE Consulting Group LLC.PGE Consulting Group LLC empowers individuals and organizations to lead with purpose, presence, and impact. Specializing in leadership development and personal branding, we offer keynotes, custom programming, consulting, and strategic advising—all designed to elevate influence and performance at every level.Founded and led by Paula Edgar, our work centers on practical strategies that enhance professional development, strengthen workplace culture, and drive meaningful, measurable change.To learn more about Paula and her services, go to www.paulaedgar.com or contact her at info@paulaedgar.com, and follow Paula Edgar and the PGE Consulting Group LLC on LinkedIn.

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Let's Talk :: FROM CORPORATE TO CREATIVE MAMA: BUILDING A FAMILY-FIRST BUSINESS | Natasha Mills, TELUS Storyhive

Sass & Small TALK

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 29, 2025 45:57

mental health creative burnout drink mama corporate bc twins gut mills mamas mental wellness sass family first career pivots first business parenting podcasts career burnout telus storyhive

One year of flipping: Cocoon reflections, career chaos & an original song

The Career Flipper Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 29, 2025 19:17

Welcome to a special solo episode of The Career Flipper Podcast! It's the podcastaversary!One year ago, I hit publish on the very first episode of this show, having no idea what I was doing and definitely not realizing how much it would change my life. What started in the messy aftermath of a 2022 layoff (and 400+ job rejections) became a permission slip to rebuild, to reimagine success, and to start over without a map.In this episode, I share the behind-the-scenes of how this podcast came to be, how flipping furniture helped me flip my identity, and how conversations with guests like:Nick Musica, a former SEO guy turned animal psychicTrish Jasinski, who bought a chateau in the south of France and left corporate to open a retreat spaceCat Cheng, a former music teacher turned Netflix-featured baker (hi, tres leches dreams)And Case Sandberg, who I met at a farmer's market and learned had just left his software engineering job to become a chocolate maker…helped me feel less alone and more alive.Oh and I'm sharing a piece of my music. I wrote a song called Just Wait, about getting laid off, getting lost, and learning how to come back to yourself.Skip to 14:28 if you want to jump straight to the song.Whether you're in the middle of your own career flip, cocoon season, or identity unraveling, I hope this episode reminds you that you don't need permission from anyone else to change your life.You can give it to yourself.

Ali Mejia: Cofounder of Eberjey

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Play Episode Listen Later Jul 28, 2025 53:55

Ali Mejia is the visionary and cofounder of elevated sleepwear brand Eberjey. Although she'd always had a soft spot for pajamas (getting ready for bed was a self-care ritual in her home growing up), Mejia began her career on Wall Street. After graduating from Princeton, she followed many of her peers to New York City and got a job as a financial analyst. When her bank unexpectedly closed, she was laid off and left to confront the nagging feeling that she should be exploring her creativity. She used her severance package to fund a trip to Florence, Italy, and being immersed in the arts and culture inspired her to make a change in her career. Upon returning home, she took one more short-lived finance job and then landed a fashion internship at Cynthia Rowley that energized her. She moved back home to Miami and took a direct marketing job to pay the bills while quietly working with a local patternmaker and learning how to design sleepwear. Once she had designed a few prototypes, she told her coworker at the direct marketing company about her business idea. This coworker, Mariela Rovito, became Mejia's cofounder in Eberjey. In 1996, they left their day jobs, put $10,000 each into this new venture, and set off on a brand-building journey with no business plan. Today, almost three decades later, Eberjey remains a leading international sleepwear brand with five brick-and-mortar shops and products sold in over 500 retailers, from Neiman Marcus to Nordstrom.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

104 | Are graduate studies necessary for a successful career pivot?

Life Beyond Clinical Practice - Healthcare Careers, Health Professions, Professional Development, Career Goals, Career Transi

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 28, 2025 14:59

Thinking about graduate school as part of your healthcare career pivot? You're not alone. This question can feel heavy—especially when you're balancing life, work, and a desire for meaningful change. In this episode, we explore whether going back to school is really necessary for your pivot—and what to consider before you commit. What You'll Learn: The pros and cons of graduate education Types of relevant programs for today's healthcare landscape How global trends are shaping new opportunities in health Key questions to ask yourself before enrolling Alternatives to traditional degrees that can still create transformation Graduate Programs Discussed: Master of Public Health (MPH) Health Informatics & Digital Health Health Administration / MBA Health Professions Education (MEd) Global Health & Humanitarian Response Plus: Creative alternatives like micro-credentials, fellowships, coaching certifications, and experiential learning pathways. Reflection Prompt: What is the future I want to be part of—and who do I need to become to help build it? Let's Connect: Have you been considering grad school—or already made the leap? I'd love to hear your story. Connect with me on email: info@lifebeyondclinicalpractice.com Follow our LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/104404906/admin/dashboard/ Book a free Complimentary Call with Dr Diane https://calendly.com/lbcp/complimentary-call Join the Movement on Instagram: @lifebeyondclinicalpractice Rate and Review the show on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/life-beyond-clinical-practice-healthcare-careers-professional/id1713086617 Enjoyed this episode? We think you'll enjoy this one too https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/99-master-these-strategies-to-break-into-a-new-field/id1713086617?i=1000714146316

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200 Episodes Strong: Mark Koulianos on Career Pivots & Transferable Skills

What the Heck Is Happening in HR?

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 28, 2025 14:36

We're celebrating our 200th episode by kicking off a new multi-part series with Mark Koulianos!You may remember Mark from our recent episode on USF's new HR Certificate — but this time, we go deeper. Mark takes us through his fascinating career journey, from launching an import-export business to leading global operations to transforming continuing education at the University of South Florida.He shares how transferable skills, critical thinking, and relationship-building helped shape his path — and why these abilities are essential for today's leaders.This is just the start — stay tuned for more episodes with Mark coming soon!Learn more about CTPE⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast Disclaimer⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠#WhatTheHeckIsHappeningInHR #HRPodcast #CareerGrowth #Leadership #TransferableSkills #ContinuingEducation #ProfessionalDevelopment #CareerPivots #MilestoneEpisode #BuildingRelationships

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Why 65% of Career Pivots FAIL It's NOT Your Resume!

5 Minute Career Hack™️

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 24, 2025 4:06

Stuck in your career while watching others get promoted? We've helped thousands of professionals unlock hidden opportunities with my 5 Minute Career Hack system. Grab our free 'Career Power Play' weekly to learn the exact strategies that helped our clients increase their income and land their dream job. Click below and change your career now!

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How To Blend Legal Teaching With Theater and Parenting feat. Keith Shannon and Kara Shannon

You are a Lawyer Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 24, 2025 42:10

Keith Shannon is a former lawyer, legal educator, and lifelong theater fan. Kara Shannon is his daughter and creative collaborator. In this episode, Kyla speaks with the father-daughter duo about their journey from legal careers and musical soundtracks to launching Fourth Row Center, a podcast celebrating Broadway and family bonds. Their story is a heartfelt reminder that success can look like connection, creativity, and choosing joy on your own terms.LAWYER SIDE HUSTLESLaunching a podcast wasn't just a fun hobby for Keith and Kara, it was a way to stay connected, be creative, and invite others into their world of Broadway fandom. What started as casual chats about shows turned into Fourth Row Center, a podcast that's part review, part family banter, and part love letter to the stage.“We started the podcast and love it together, so why not? And it gives us an excuse to chat a little bit,” Kara Shannon shares in Episode 202 of You Are a Lawyer.This father-daughter side hustle is a reminder that legal professionals can (and should) pursue joy. Whether you're behind a mic or in the audience, there's power in showing up fully—as a parent, partner, or creative collaborator.LISTEN TO LEARNHow a law degree can support creative and nontraditional careersWhy launching a passion project with a loved one is so powerfulHow to prioritize values like family, storytelling, and joyWE ALSO DISCUSSThe practical power of paralegals in the legal fieldHow Kara and Keith's shared love of musicals became a podcastWhy flexibility and curiosity are career superpowersJoin the FREE mailing list!Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer. 1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!Interact with You Are A LawyerKyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast. Follow the podcast:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyerWebsite: https://www.youarealawyer.com

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Musicologist to strategic communications advisor, meet Lisa Chensvold

The Career Flipper Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 24, 2025 43:26

What happens when you walk away from academia and turn your deep love of language, story, and the arts into a strategic superpower?In this episode of The Career Flipper Podcast, I sit down with Lisa Chensvold, a classically-trained soprano and former musicologist based in Washington, DC, who made a bold leap from the world of academia to the world of strategic communications.Now the Principal of Chensvold Communications, Lisa helps mission-driven leaders and organizations tackle complex communication challenges—from defining a CEO's voice to aligning internal teams and rethinking how strategy shows up in language. Her work is rooted in clarity, intentionality, and the belief that thoughtful communication is leadership.We talk about:Why she pivoted away from academia How she turned her humanities background into a strength in a STEM-obsessed worldWhat it's like to build a consulting business from scratchHow communications can help shape and reshape organizations at every levelThe fear (and thrill) of taking the leap into entrepreneurshipIf you're someone who's ever felt the nudge to pivot but wondered how your experience translates, this one's for you.Connect with LisaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisachensvold/Chensvold Communications: https://chensvoldcommunications.com/ Thanks for listening to The Career Flipper!If you enjoyed this episode, let's spread the word! Share it with a friend, subscribe, and leave a review—it helps other career flippers find the show.Let's Stay Connected:Join the community: thecareerflipper.comTikTok: @thecareerflipperInstagram: @thecareerflipperpodGot a career flip story? I'd love to hear it—and maybe even have you on the podcast! Whether you've completed your flip, are just starting, or are in the thick of it, submit your story here: https://www.thecareerflipper.com Want to support the show?Looking for a speaker? I'd love to talk about career changes at your next event.Collaborate through sponsorships or affiliates! Let's work together.Email me: hello@thecareerflipper.comCheck Out My Customer Service CoursesBefore my career flip, I led customer experience teams and created online courses that have helped over 12,000 students worldwide. Whether you're switching to customer service or sharpening your skills to run your own business, these courses are packed with practical tips. Learn more at thecareerflipper.com/courses.Other Ways to Get Involved:Buy me a coffee!Explore my furniture flipsMusic CreditsSeason 1: Intro and outro music by audionautix.com. Season 2: Intro and outro original music by Jenny Dempsey, recorded in a home studio.What's the best that could happen?

The Who What Wear Podcast: The Bear's Molly Gordon on the Importance of Female Friendships—and Delusion—While Making It in Hollywood

Wish I'd Known Then . . . For Writers

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 23, 2025 32:28

This week, Who What Wear Co-Founder Hillary Kerr is chatting with our June cover star, Molly Gordon! You likely know Gordon from playing Claire in FX's The Bear, or from past roles in Booksmart, Theater Camp, Shiva Baby, and many more. In addition to acting, Gordon has approached her career from the angle of multihyphenate since the beginning. In fact, her newest project—a hilarious, genre-bending film called Oh, Hi!, which she co-created, produced, and stars in—comes out on July 25. In this episode, Gordon shares her favorite improvised moments from The Bear season 4, how Oh, Hi! was inspired by a "5% crazier" version of herself, and how she found the confidence to direct. Plus, she gives us the rundown on her press tour looks and her partnership with one of our favorite stylists, Jared Ellner. If you'd like to watch the best bits of this interview, tune into our YouTube here!Shop our editor's eBay picks here!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Alyssa Archer on her Career Pivot, ADHD, and Connecting with Other Writers

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 23, 2025 42:42

277 / Alyssa Archer, longtime indie author and editor, shares how she blended editing, writing, and community-building to create a sustainable, meaningful writing life.Navigating a career shift from fiction writing to editing and nonfiction projects, including the story behind her work on the Book of Birth. The challenges and gifts of living and working with ADHD, from late diagnosisPractical steps to find and connect with other writers to create community This episode is a fantastic listen for indie authors and creatives looking for honest insights about career pivots, building a supportive writing community, and rethinking productivity.

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The Career Academic–Career Pivots, an AJR Podcast Series (Episode 1)

AJR Podcast Series

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 23, 2025 20:17

How can academic radiologists break into the entrepreneurial world? Greg Zaharchuk, MD, PhD, speaks with host Sid Dogra, MD, about his journey from academic neuroradiology to co-founding Subtle Medical, sharing insights into the challenges, rewards, and lessons learned in building an artificial intelligence startup from within academic medicine.

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Season 1: Episode 14 - Faith, Career Pivots and Transitions

Living Life With Passion and Purpose

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 23, 2025 64:48

Conversation with lawyer turned career coach Yevedzo Chitiga. We discuss faith, motherhood, and how a lay off was the catalyst to the career pivot that she did not know she needed.

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Pulling Off a Career Pivot, with Rosie

Dear Headspace

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 22, 2025 37:29

Rosie and Robin answer questions about feeling like you're on the wrong path, information overload, and feeling so happy that you cry. Try the Headspace app free for 30 days ⁠here⁠. Send your questions to our mental health professionals ⁠HERE⁠ or email ⁠ask-a@headspace.com⁠. Follow Robin ⁠here⁠ or at ⁠Well…Adjusting⁠ and follow Rosie ⁠here⁠. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

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Epstein Files and the CEO & CPO Scandal at the Coldplay Concert: The Integrity Imperative

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Play Episode Listen Later Jul 22, 2025 14:01

Does this sound familiar? You've been told to just slap some “core values” up on the wall and trust that your executive team will magically become models of integrity. But all that's done is leave you frustrated, watching the same old drama play out—burnout, trust issues, and a culture that feels more performative than authentic. If you're tired of seeing leaders talk the talk but never walk the walk, you're definitely not alone. In this episode, you will be able to: Discover how integrity in executive leadership transforms decision-making and builds lasting trust within your organization. Uncover the profound impact leadership integrity has on driving business success and shaping company reputation. Learn actionable strategies to embed ethical leadership deeply into your company culture for sustainable growth. Explore why transparency and accountability are game-changers in creating credible and resilient leadership teams. Understand how addressing burnout and practicing empathy can revitalize leaders and foster healthier work environments. The key moments in this episode are:00:00:00 - Introduction and Invitation to Subscribe for Trauma-Informed Leadership Insights 00:01:39 - The Urgency of Integrity as an Executive Discipline in 2025 00:03:10 - The Neuroscience of Burnout and Its Impact on Leadership Integrity 00:05:10 - The Integrity Framework for Building Trustworthy Leadership Cultures 00:08:38 - Empowering Leaders to Model Integrity and Make Bold Career Moves "Integrity isn't just the right thing to do—it's also good strategy; it's the foundation that builds trust, resilience, and lasting success in any organization." - Lori Adams-Brown Connect with us: https://www.aworldofdifferencepodcast.com Linkedin YouTube Substack FaceBook Instagram Threads Patreon (for exclusive episodes just for Difference Makers) Bluesky TikTok Subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who might need to hear it. Your support helps the community grow and keeps these important conversations going. If you need professional help, such as therapy: https://www.betterhelp.com/difference If you are looking for your next opportunity, sign up for Lori's Masterclass on Master the Career Pivot: https://www.loriadamsbrown.com/careerpivot Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Amrit Tietz: DJ and Co-Founder of Spread the Jelly

Sweet but Fearless Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 21, 2025 52:01

Amrit Tietz is an international DJ and co-founder of the modern motherhood platform Spread the Jelly. Although she initially set out to study economics, Tietz dropped out of college, unbeknownst to her parents, to pursue a path she was more passionate about: music. She auditioned multiple times for the West Australian Academy of Performing Arts, a music conservatory, before being accepted into the musical theater program. During her time there, she collected jazz units and switched to a music performance degree while also learning how to DJ on the side. Tietz moved to New York City after graduating and worked various jobs—from waitressing to retail—while taking DJ gigs to build her network. She eventually landed a full-time role at Starworks Agency, advancing from executive assistant to director of talent and engagement. After nearly six years at the ad agency, Tietz decided to take her DJing career full-time, successfully leaping from managing talent to becoming the talent herself. She has since toured globally, performed for iconic names like Dior and Vogue, and had her original music featured in HBO and Apple TV+ productions. While Tietz continues to DJ—and did so even while seven months pregnant—she recently moved into a new space with Spread the Jelly, an independent online platform redefining the narrative around modern motherhood. She and her co-founder, Lauren Levinger, launched the platform as a space for mothers to tell their diverse stories more authentically, build community, and “embrace the sticky” parts of motherhood together. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Power of a Career Pivot with Kelsey Cook, Founder of Learning with Kelsey (S9:Epi 248)

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 21, 2025 21:45

Have you ever wondered how an unexpected challenge can reveal a new path? In this episode, Mary Sullivan, co-founder of Sweet but Fearless, talks with Kelsey Cook, a former teacher turned entrepreneur, about how she recognized the uncertainty parents faced when schools shut down during the pandemic. To help her students and their parents, she began creating hands-on, engaging educational packets for preschoolers. What started as a simple way to support families during the pandemic evolved into Learning with Kelsey, an educational subscription box that has grown from a home-based idea into a thriving business. Kelsey shares how responding to a real need helped her reimagine her purpose and build something lasting. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe and review to help more fearless listeners like you find us! MORE ABOUT KELSEY COOK: Website: Learning with Kelsey Instagram: Learning with Kelsey Kelsey: How it Started ABOUT SWEET BUT FEARLESS: Website - Sweet but Fearless LinkedIn - Sweet but Fearless

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The Role of Data Analytics in Trading | Victoria Bryan, Senior Vice President at Northern Trust

Market Maker

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 21, 2025 48:55

In this episode, Anthony speaks with Victoria Bryan, Senior Vice President, Trade Performance and Analytics, Banking and Markets, Northern Trust, about how data analytics shapes trading decisions and drives performance on the trading floor.Victoria shares how she built a career at the intersection of data, markets, and communication, teaching herself to code, translating complex insights for stakeholders, and leading with curiosity and adaptability.It's a candid look at one of the most impactful (and often overlooked) roles in finance, full of practical advice for anyone exploring data-driven careers or trying to stand out early in the industry.(00:00) Introduction to Data Analytics in Finance(01:24) Victoria Bryan's Journey: Education and Early Career(06:17) Understanding Northern Trust and Its Role(09:05) Navigating Career Challenges and University Selection(14:20) Mindset Shifts for Career Pivots(18:07) The Willingness to Learn and Personal Growth(21:52) The Role of Data Analytics in Trading Decisions(25:15) Essential Skills for Success(29:09) The Balance of Communication Skills(31:33) Building Confidence in Public Speaking(35:51) Navigating Imposter Syndrome(42:43) The Importance of Networking(46:16) Advice to My Younger Self

S19E9: Lawyer Turned McKinsey Consultant – Saahil's Career Pivot Story

Strategy Simplified

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 18, 2025 32:33

Send us a textSaahil's path to McKinsey was anything but typical. He started in law school in India, built two startups, earned an MBA at UVA Darden, and ultimately broke into consulting. In this episode, he shares exactly how he translated his legal and entrepreneurial skills into a top‑tier consulting offer.Listen in for practical tips on consultifying your resume, networking from a non‑traditional background, and preparing for McKinsey's PEI and case interviews. If you're a lawyer - or in any other non‑traditional field - wondering if consulting is possible, Saahil's story will show you how to make it happen.Additional Resources:Accelerate your transition to consulting with Black Belt, the world's #1 consulting prep programPrevious Strategy Simplified episode: From Law to Consulting: How to Make the Leap SuccessfullySubscribe to Management Consulted on YouTubePartner Links:Stax is hiring! See open roles and requirementsReal Talk About MarketingAn Acxiom podcast where we discuss marketing made better, bringing you real...Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifyConnect With Management Consulted Schedule free 15min consultation with the MC Team. Watch the video version of the podcast on YouTube! Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates and industry insights! Join an upcoming live event - case interviews demos, expert panels, and more. Email us (team@managementconsulted.com) with questions or feedback.

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Unlocking Early Retirement with Self-Directed IRAs: Brett Synicky

The Cashflow Project

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 17, 2025 44:16

Welcome back to The Cashflow Project! In this episode, we chat with Brett Synicky—real estate investor, licensed agent, and self-directed IRA & solo 401k expert at Sense Financial. Brett shares lessons from his 18+ years in real estate, from helping at his dad's rentals to navigating the 2008 crash. Learn how to use retirement accounts creatively, reduce taxes, and tap into passive investing and private lending. If you're ready to unlock hidden capital and build real wealth, don't miss this one! [00:00] Real Estate & Financial Flexibility [04:45] Real Estate Journey with Solo 401k [09:55] Illusions of Easy Money [12:23] Market Shifts and Career Pivot [16:24] Solo 401k Loan for Real Estate [19:41] "Invest in What You Know" [21:45] Investment Vulnerability Revealed by Covid [26:09] Exploring Retirement Options Proactively [26:46] Currency Devaluation and Asset Strategy [32:32] Bypassing Custodians with LLC or Trust [33:15] Efficient Investment Management Approach [37:58] "Advice: Get Right with God Early" [39:38] No TV: Create Your Vision [43:06] Wealth Growth Monthly Meetings Connect with Brett Synicky! Website LinkedIn Instagram Connect with The Cashflow Project! Website LinkedIn YouTube Facebook Instagram

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How to Build an Empire of Freedom With Your Law Degree feat. Aman Costigan (September 2023)

You are a Lawyer Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 17, 2025 22:17

Aman Costigan was once a partner at a Canadian law firm, teaching yoga on the side and quietly craving more freedom and alignment in her life. In this powerful conversation, she shares how she found her voice, launched Beyond Yoga for Lawyers, and began to merge wellness with law in a meaningful way. The episode captures a moment in time when Aman was redefining what a legal career could look like — and today, her journey continues beyond the courtroomLawyer Side HustlesBeyond Yoga for Lawyers began as a side project. Aman felt a pull to share what she had learned through yoga and mindfulness, especially with other lawyers who were struggling with burnout and disconnection. She started teaching classes, offering workshops, and building a community.“I didn't see anyone else doing it in the way I wanted to. So I just did it,” expresses Aman Costigan in Episode 105 of You Are a Lawyer.Over time, that side hustle grew into a brand and a business. Today, she offers coaching, yoga, and wellness content specifically designed for lawyers who want more than just billable hours and burnout. It's a testament to what's possible when you start small, stay consistent, and let your vision evolve.LISTEN TO LEARNHow to break out of burnout and build a new rhythmWhy you don't have to choose between ambition and peaceHow yoga and mindfulness can transform legal careersWE ALSO DISCUSSThe early signs of needing a career shiftThe journey of building a business as a lawyerHow to expand your identity beyond your titleJoin the FREE mailing list!Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer. 1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!Interact with You Are A LawyerKyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast. Follow the podcast:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyerWebsite: https://www.youarealawyer.com

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Former NFL Trainer Mike Ryan On Career Pivots & Finding Purpose

InitiativeOne Leadership Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 17, 2025 23:16

Ready to make a big leap in your career or life? Dr. Fred Johnson and special guest Mike Ryan, former NFL trainer for the Jaguars and Giants, and now an NBC Sports injury analyst, discuss finding your purpose in life and career. Discover how Mike transitioned from peak NFL success to an even greater impact, sharing vital sports medicine and wellness insights with the world. If you're contemplating a major change but are scared to take the risk, this episode is for you. Learn to bet on yourself and redefine what success truly means.

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From software engineer to customer experience to AI entrepreneur, meet Mariena Quintanilla

The Career Flipper Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 17, 2025 53:42

In this episode, you'll meet Mariena Quintanilla, a Los Angeles-based career flipper who proves you can pivot, even within the same industry.After spending nearly two decades in tech, moving through roles in software engineering, product management, solutions architecture, and customer experience (plus navigating a layoff), Mariena had a realization: she didn't want to keep climbing the corporate ladder but she still loved tech.So, she made the leap. Today, Mariena runs Mellonhead.co, an AI education and consulting company helping others make sense of emerging technology.In our conversation, we talk about:The inner work that happens before, during, and after a big leapBuilding a financial safety net and jumping anywayThe identity shifts that come with walking away from a titleWhy knowing who you are matters more than knowing where you're goingMariena doesn't sugarcoat the messy middle. She shares what it really felt like to start over, the fears she faced, and the courage it took to rebuild on her own terms.Connect with MarienaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariena/Website: https://mellonhead.co/ Thanks for listening to The Career Flipper!If you enjoyed this episode, let's spread the word! Share it with a friend, subscribe, and leave a review—it helps other career flippers find the show.Let's Stay Connected:Join the community: thecareerflipper.comTikTok: @thecareerflipperInstagram: @thecareerflipperpodGot a career flip story? I'd love to hear it—and maybe even have you on the podcast! Whether you've completed your flip, are just starting, or are in the thick of it, submit your story here: https://www.thecareerflipper.com Want to support the show?Looking for a speaker? I'd love to talk about career changes at your next event.Collaborate through sponsorships or affiliates! Let's work together.Email me: hello@thecareerflipper.comCheck Out My Customer Service CoursesBefore my career flip, I led customer experience teams and created online courses that have helped over 12,000 students worldwide. Whether you're switching to customer service or sharpening your skills to run your own business, these courses are packed with practical tips. Learn more at thecareerflipper.com/courses.Other Ways to Get Involved:Buy me a coffee!Explore my furniture flipsMusic CreditsSeason 1: Intro and outro music by audionautix.com. Season 2: Intro and outro original music by Jenny Dempsey, recorded in a home studio.What's the best that could happen?

The Who What Wear Podcast: What to Shop at the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, With Nordstrom's Associate Fashion Director Linda Cui Zhang

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Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2025 21:03

The annual Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is live, and to celebrate, Who What Wear Shopping Director Bobby Schuessler is talking to one of the great curatorial minds behind the sale—Nordstrom Associate Fashion Director Linda Cui Zhang. In this episode, Zhang reveals the product selection process for the sale, the trends her team prioritized, and the new brands she was excited to bring into the fold this year. Plus, she shares the most covetable items to shop before they sell out, her favorite giftable beauty bundles, and the key pieces to prioritize if you're looking to elevate or refresh your wardrobe but don't know where to start (think seasonless Frye riding boots and versatile Vince short-sleeve wool tees).See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Navigating Career Pivots and Layoffs: What Got You Here Won't Get You There | S3 EP13

Leadership Tea

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2025 16:28 Transcription Available

Are you navigating a career pivot or a layoff? It's not uncommon these days. If you're looking ahead to what's next, Shelby and Belinda want to remind you that times have changed, so what worked for you before won't necessarily get you where you want to go. In other words, the tools and mindset that brought you success in the past might need a serious overhaul. Whether you're facing a forced career pivot, adapting to a restructured team, or aspiring to higher levels of leadership, this episode is a call not just to let go of habits that no longer serve you, but also to uncouple your identity from your career.Watch episode 13 on YouTubeSend us a comment!We publish new episodes every other Wednesday. Subscribe to the Leadership Tea Podcast Subscribe to Leadership Tea on YouTube! Follow us on Instagram @Leadership_Tea for more inspiration and insights. Get your FREE copy of our Strategic Change WorkbookLearn more about us at stirringsuccess.com

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The 20-Year Squiggle: Thriving Through Internal Career Pivots with Darcey Bennett

Embrace the Squiggle

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2025 47:49

Ever wondered what a Chief of Staff actually does… and how to become one? This episode unveils the squiggly career moves that can lead to this powerful but often misunderstood role.What You'll Discover:How to leverage research skills from academia into business advantageThe unspoken challenges of managing teams at a young ageWhy the Chief of Staff role might be the perfect fit for "connectors" and strategic thinkersStrategic pivots between large corporations and nimble startupsDarcey Bennett shares her journey from Smith College research associate to Chief of Staff at multiple organizations including Gartner, CEB, Ellucian, and now RiskExec. Her candid insights reveal how seemingly disconnected experiences build the unique skillset needed for high-level strategic roles.Whether you're curious about the Chief of Staff career path or simply looking to make your diverse background work for you, Darcey's experience navigating fair lending analytics, higher education software, and business advisory firms offers a masterclass in strategic career development.Connect with Darcey: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darceybennett/

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227: God Can Use a ‘Small' Career Pivot to Change Everything | Michael's Story

Answer the Call with Kelsey Kemp

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 15, 2025 43:03

God doesn't always move through big, dramatic changes. Sometimes it's through small, quiet career pivots that align us with His plan.And that's exactly what happened with our client, Michael.In this episode, he shares how a small shift in his career became the key to walking in his calling and stewarding his current season with purpose. He went from deflated and overwhelmed in his job search to landing a role he loves at a larger renewable energy company, all while navigating life with a newborn and toddler.We discuss:Why small pivots aren't small when God is in itHow to stop letting the job market tell you who you areWhat it looks like to honor your current employer while preparing for the next stepThe mindset shift that helped Michael make progress in a busy seasonHow career coaching has helped with clarity and landing a new roleCheering you on,Kelsey Kemp & Audrey BagarusBOOK A FREE CALL WITH US THIS WEEK: https://calendly.com/audrey-tcc/consultation-call?month=2025-01FREE CAREER COACHING RESOURCES:Free Training: How to Find and Land a Job You Feel Called to in 8 Straightforward Steps → https://thecalledcareer.com/our-processMore of a reader? ⁠Download the 22 page PDF⁠ version instead → https://thecalledcareer.mykajabi.com/PDFFOLLOW US ON OTHER SOCIALS:

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Strategic Career Pivots

Menttium Matters

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 15, 2025 31:38

Tony Meale shares how he transformed from a sports journalist to executive communications leader, plus leadership lessons from writing "The Chosen Ones." Learn the 3 key questions for successful career pivots and why servant leadership drives results.

strategic career pivots chosen ones

Sarah Davis: Founder and President of Fashionphile

university founders new york city business entrepreneur career entrepreneurship san diego maryland tokyo ebay career changes self made career advice second life female founders career pivots sarah davis hillary kerr

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 14, 2025 44:07

Sarah Davis is the founder and president of the luxury resale company Fashionphile. Davis was a self-proclaimed “debate nerd” during her teens and had early aspirations of becoming a lawyer. After earning her undergrad, she quickly enrolled in law school at the University of Maryland. Growing up, Davis had become accustomed to taking odd jobs to pay for things like clothing, so she applied that same mentality to putting herself through school. To make money, she cut boys' hair in the dorms and even started a peer-to-peer used lawbook platform with her brother-in-law called lawswap.com. She also began selling her belongings on eBay for extra cash, and that's when she realized that there was a largely untapped market for luxury resale. In 1999, she created a storefront on eBay called Fashionphile, focused on reselling luxury handbags, and was soon able to make enough money to pay off her student loans. Although Davis did graduate from law school and even pass the bar, she had found her true passion in growing her resale business and decided to opt out of pursuing a law career. She ran Fashionphile on eBay for the first several years of the business before bringing her brother-in-law into the fold and legitimizing the brand with its own website. Today, over 25 years later, Fashionphile is the largest platform in the country for buying and selling pre-owned, ultra-luxury accessories. The brand now has headquarters in San Diego and New York City, an office in Tokyo, and retail locations all across the country. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

How to Navigate a Career Pivot in the Cleared World

Security Clearance Careers Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 14, 2025 23:32

For cleared professionals, the idea of a career pivot can feel particularly complex. Whether you're shifting industries, moving from government to private sector (or vice versa), or simply seeking a new role within national security, making a strategic career change can open exciting new doors—if you approach it right. Joyce, career coach from Digital Humanity, joins the podcast to discuss how to successfully pivot careers.Tune in to learn how to confidently navigate a career pivot and come out stronger on the other side. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Stephanie Hildreth: Leading Startups with Heart and Strategy

Rhonda Coleman Wandel Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 13, 2025 57:24

Stephanie Hildreth is an accomplished executive and former CEO of Mindful magazine, now serving as Chief of Staff and Head of Customer Success at a rapidly growing tech company. In this episode, Stephanie shares her journey from media to health tech and SaaS, offering deep insight into what it takes to lead high-performing teams through change. Her approach blends strategy with emotional intelligence, and her story is a powerful guide for anyone navigating career pivots or leading transformation from within.Key Takeaways:Why strong leadership starts with self-awareness and trustHow to use feedback loops to build stronger teams and culturesWhat to look for when making a career pivot into a new industryHow to lead strategic change without losing human connectionThe mindset shift that helps you thrive in high-growth environmentsMeet Stephanie HildrethStephanie Hildreth is a high-impact executive known for leading with both heart and precision. Formerly CEO of Mindful magazine, she now serves as Chief of Staff and Head of Customer Success at a fast-growing tech company. With experience across SaaS, media, and health tech, Stephanie is passionate about operational excellence, leadership development, and building cultures rooted in emotional intelligence and transparency.Meet StephanieHow She PivotedStephanie Hildreth's career has never followed a straight line—and that's by design. After a winding path into her first leadership roles, she realized her true strengths were rooted in emotional intelligence and the ability to lead through change. As CEO of Mindful magazine, she navigated a major transformation, growing the business while realigning its vision and ultimately leading it through a successful exit.“There was a moment when I said, if not me, then who? And that changed everything,” shared Stephanie Hildreth on episode 28 of the Rhonda Coleman Wandel podcast.That clarity has guided each step since. Whether transitioning into new industries or taking on dual leadership roles in tech, Stephanie has stayed grounded in her core values. Her career evolution shows that you don't have to choose between performance and purpose—you can build a path that honours both.Insights for Ambitious WomenStephanie's story is a blueprint for leading with intentionality and grace. She believes success isn't about proving your worth—it's about aligning your work with who you are. From navigating imposter syndrome to embracing risk, her insights help ambitious women show up with more confidence and clarity.“Leadership isn't about being the loudest in the room. It's about being the clearest,” encouraged Stephanie Hildreth on the RCW podcastHer career pivots remind us that growth often begins with a question—and that reinvention starts when we stop waiting for permission and start trusting our capacity to lead.Want More Like This?Be sure to subscribe to the podcast on your favourite platform so you never miss an episode. And if you're ready for even more honest stories, career inspiration, and powerful insights, join Rhonda's monthly newsletter. It's where ambitious women get the encouragement, tools, and behind-the-scenes wisdom to thrive—straight to your inbox. Subscribe to the newsletter and catch more episodes at RhondaColemanWandel.com

How to Combine Law and AI Without Losing Your Mind feat. Austin Brittenham

You are a Lawyer Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 10, 2025 25:23

Austin Brittenham is a first-generation lawyer, legal tech founder, and the creator of 2nd Chair, an AI-powered tool designed to help solo and small firm lawyers work faster and smarter. In this episode, Austin and Kyla talk about space law, law school culture, and what it really means to use your legal education creatively. From debating in high school to launching two startups, Austin proves that you don't have to follow the traditional legal path to make a meaningful impact.Lawyer Side HustlesAustin's side hustle is now his full-time gig. He founded 2nd Chair while still in law school and used his background in AI and education startups to build something lawyers actually need. The tool creates litigation timelines, drafts legal materials, and helps lawyers save time and serve more clients. But it's not just about software, it's about increasing access to justice and making legal practice more sustainable.“We can distribute more justice, we can serve more people—or just have more vacation,” expresses Austin Brittenham in Episode 200 of You Are a Lawyer.Austin's story reminds us that entrepreneurship doesn't have to mean abandoning the law. It can mean expanding it, reimagining it, and making it more human. 2nd Chair exists because Austin saw a gap in the system and took the risk to build something better.LISTEN TO LEARNHow Austin built 2nd Chair to support small firm lawyersThe difference between legal knowledge and legal valueHow to take career risks using your law degree as a safety netWE ALSO DISCUSSThe pros and cons of legal tech adoption across generationsAustin's detour into space law and education startupsWhy volunteering and community work can shape your legal futureJoin the FREE mailing list!Get behind-the-scenes content from You Are A Lawyer. 1) Visit www.youarealawyer.com2) Add your email address to the Subscribe pop-up box OR3) Enter your email address on the right side of the screen4) Get emails from me (I won't fill your inbox with junk)!Interact with You Are A LawyerKyla Denanyoh hosts the You Are A Lawyer podcast. Follow the podcast:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@youarealawyerWebsite: https://www.youarealawyer.com

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The Who What Wear Podcast: Go Sports! Athlete Stylists Brittany Hampton and Manny Jay on Dressing WNBA It Girls, and Why It's More Than Picking Out Clothes

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 9, 2025 36:10

In this episode, Senior Fashion Editor Eliza Huber—Who What Wear's resident expert on the intersection of sports and fashion—is sitting down with two stylists behind some of the best tunnel fashion we've seen in recent months. Brittany Hampton is a seasoned athlete stylist whose client roster includes some of the buzziest women in basketball: Paige Bueckers, Sabrina Ionescu, Cameron Brink, Evan Mobley, and Nika Mühl. She's also the Golden State Valkyries' fashion strategist. Manny Jay began his styling career working with musicians like Trippie Redd and Tink, and more recently manifested his way into the sports arena through his work with WNBA tunnel 'fit veteran Skylar Diggins-Smith. Today, Hampton and Jay discuss the WNBA's unprecedented growth over the last year and how that heightened visibility impacts their clients' relationships with fashion. They get into the ways that athlete fashion extends beyond aesthetics, influencing fan accessibility, marketing avenues for players, and even their on-court performance. Check out Eliza's Go Sports content here!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

#427 Waverly Deutsch: Love and Logic—Building Businesses That Actually Work—Part Three

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 9, 2025 29:44

#426 Waverly Deutsch: Love and Logic—Building Businesses That Actually Work—Part Two

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 9, 2025 37:22

Waverly Deutsch doesn't just coach entrepreneurs—she translates English to English, reframes stories with strategy, and helps even the most logic-trained professionals tap into their conviction. In this three-part series, we walk through her unusual path from consulting to Chicago Booth to founding WyseHeart, her pitch strategy firm.Each episode reveals a new dimension of her journey: the personal (Part 1), the academic and instructional (Part 2), and the entrepreneurial, including her bold take on how to co-exist with AI (Part 3). Across every chapter, Waverly models what it means to coach with both love and logic—bringing clear frameworks to messy human dreams.Key Highlights of Our Interview:From Book Smarts to Business Savvy“Entrepreneurship is a process—whether you're 20 or 50.”At Booth, Waverly coached a wildly diverse mix: undergrads with unchecked imagination, MBAs with ideas but risk aversion, and execs who played it too safe. Her role? Adjusting the dials between wild dreams and grounded strategy—always pushing people to think just a little bigger (or a little sharper).Love for the Logical Skeptics“If you, the entrepreneur, don't believe you're building a $50M company, why should the investor?”Her job wasn't to sugarcoat—it was to stretch minds. She shares how she helped overly rational MBAs move from “safe” ideas to bold, fundable visions—and overly optimistic young founders get real about execution. Her coaching mantra? Meet them where they are—and nudge from there.The Muffin That Grew a Billion Dollars“This could be the Betty Crocker of the 21st century.”A standout case: Simple Mills founder Caitlin Smith. What began as a gluten-free side hustle turned into a billion-dollar brand—thanks in part to Waverly's nudge to imagine bigger. It's a masterclass in how one coach reframed a story and sparked a scale-worthy vision.Coaching in the Wild“I'm an English-to-English translator.”Post-Booth, Waverly now works with a broader crowd: from seasoned pros to small business owners without MBAs. Her key lesson? Listen deeply, strip away jargon, and tailor advice to meet people where they are—because real coaching starts with trust, not templates.Can AI Be Your Coach? Nope.“If marriage is ‘til death do us part, investment is ‘til exit do us part.”Waverly doesn't see AI as competition—yet. A pitch deck might be AI-generated, but building investor trust, interpreting nuance, and navigating founder doubt? That's strictly human territory. Coaching is about relationships, not just logic—and for that, love still wins._______________________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Waverly Deutsch --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.20 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1% Podcast.Top 5 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>200,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.

Becoming a Trauma-Informed, Cross-Culturally Fluent Leader in Times of Crisis with Lori Adams-Brown

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 9, 2025 22:04

Unexpectedly, trauma-informed leadership skills are not just for disaster relief workers, they're crucial for leaders in any workplace. Dive into this podcast to uncover the surprising stories from a world-renowned trauma therapist who translated pain into understanding and despair into dignity. Hear how trauma manifests in the body and why creating a psychologically safe environment isn't just a nice-to-have, it's essential for high performance. Plus, get insights on navigating workplace cultural conflict and becoming a change agent inside organizations. This isn't your typical leadership advice – it's a deep dive into the unexpected intersection of trauma, neuroscience, and leadership. Stay tuned to discover how trauma-informed leadership isn't just a buzzword but the key to leading differently in today's challenging world. In this episode, you will be able to: Learn how trauma-informed leadership skills can transform your team's well-being and productivity. Master the art of navigating workplace cultural conflict for a more harmonious and inclusive environment. Discover the secrets to creating psychological safety at work for enhanced employee well-being and engagement. Understand the effects of global unrest on leadership and how to navigate them successfully. Explore effective strategies for overcoming employee burnout and fostering a resilient workforce. The key moments in this episode are:00:00:00 - Introduction and Invitation to Subscribe 00:02:37 - The Importance of Trauma-Informed Leadership 00:09:02 - Neuroscience and Psychological Safety 00:10:35 - Insights from Catherine Matisse 00:13:17 - Leading with Curiosity and Humanity 00:15:02 - Advocating for Change 00:15:36 - The Power of Therapy 00:16:39 - Career Satisfaction 00:17:54 - Overcoming Challenges

#425 Waverly Deutsch: Love and Logic—Building Businesses That Actually Work—Part One

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 8, 2025 42:40

#424 Brian Sims: When Truth Gets Political — Part Two

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Play Episode Listen Later Jul 8, 2025 32:58

In Part Two, Brian opens up about what it really cost him to tell the truth inside a political system built on avoidance. From surviving misinformation attacks to refusing to play nice for the sake of power, he reflects on the risks and responsibilities that come with using your platform when it might backfire. We also hear how he rebuilt after the storm—why starting over matters, and what he's doing differently this time around.Key Highlights of Our Interview:The Price of Authenticity“I didn't lose because I lacked support—I lost because I refused to lie.”What really happened during his run for lieutenant governor.Party Loyalty vs. Personal Truth“I wasn't going to smile and play along just to move up.”When doing the right thing means going against your own team.Retaliation Isn't Always Loud“It's the silence. The meetings you stop getting invited to.”How quiet resistance can be louder than shouting.Redefining Leadership“I don't want to lead the way they taught us. I want to lead in a way that reflects my truth.”Why he's rebuilding his leadership from the ground up.The Work Continues—But Differently“My goal now isn't to win office. It's to win trust.”From political power to public service, on his own terms._______________________________Connect with us:Host: Vince Chan | Guest: Brian Sims --Chief Change Officer--Change Ambitiously. Outgrow Yourself.Open a World of Expansive Human Intelligencefor Transformation Gurus, Black Sheep,Unsung Visionaries & Bold Hearts.EdTech Leadership Awards 2025 Finalist.20 Million+ All-Time Downloads.80+ Countries Reached Daily.Global Top 1% Podcast.Top 5 US Business.Top 1 US Careers.>>>200,000+ are outgrowing. Act Today.

Denise Woodard: Founder and CEO of Partake Foods

Imprint with Natalie Walton

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 7, 2025 56:24

Denise Woodard is the founder and CEO of Partake, an allergy-friendly food company. Woodard started her career in pound-the-pavement sales roles at Philip Morris and FedEx, gaining robust experience in winning business by providing genuine solutions to her clients. She then spent the majority of her early career at the Coca-Cola Company, starting in sales and then finding her niche working on the emerging brands that were better aligned with her values, like Honest Tea and Health-Ade. After rising through the ranks and becoming the director of national sales for Coca-Cola's Venturing and Emerging Brands (VEB), Woodard was proud of the career she had built for herself and didn't envision she'd ever leave her job. But after having her daughter, Vivienne, and finding out her child suffered from food allergies, she started to realize just how stark the allergy-friendly food landscape was. She couldn't find any options that were nutritious and delicious, and after some nudging from her nanny, Woodard decided to do something about it. She promptly put together a new business pitch for an allergy-friendly snack brand, entered a pitch competition, and won. She spent the next year building Partake while working her day job before leaping into it full-time. Since then, Woodard has become the first Black woman to raise over $1 million for a packaged food company, and Partake Foods can now be found in over 18,000 retailers, including Target and Whole Foods.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Studio McGee Stylist Jen Paul Shares Her Creative Career Pivot

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 7, 2025 59:29

What does it take to pivot into a creative career — especially when you're not in your 20s, don't live in a major city, and didn't follow a traditional design path?In one of the most popular episodes of the Imprint Podcast, interior and prop stylist Jen Paul shares how she transitioned from teaching to styling, landed a role at Studio McGee, and built a career on her own terms. She opens up about the power of being intentional, learning on the job, and how following her curiosity led to unexpected opportunities.If you're questioning your path or wondering if it's too late to start something new, Jen's story is a powerful reminder that it's never too late to back yourself — and move into action.➤ Let's continue the conversation here: www.nataliewalton.substack.com ~Go DeeperFor Interior Designers & Stylists: A proven program to elevate your interiors, develop your signature style and attract your dream clients with clarity and confidence. | Start HereFor Creative Entrepreneurs: Expert guidance in a 1:1 mentorship intensive to start or scale your creative business. | Learn MoreFor Business Strategy, Systems & Support: A strategic business growth group program for interior designers and creative business owners who are focussed on growing smarter, not harder. | Join Here~Let's connect!Join 20k readers of This Creative Life for free on Substack. Follow me on Instagram: instagram.com/nataliewaltonExplore my resources and programs: nataliewalton.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit nataliewalton.substack.com

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Exploring the Wild With Eli Martinez: Diving With Sharks & Embracing the Call of Adventure

Don't Cut Your Own Bangs

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 7, 2025 55:20

In this episode of 'Don't Cut Your Own Bangs,' Danielle Ireland interviews adventurer and SDM Diving owner Eli Martinez. They discuss his unique career leading land and ocean safaris, dispelling myths about predators, and the connection between exploring the wild and self-discovery. Eli shares his journey from aspiring bull rider to renowned wildlife guide and photographer, emphasizing the therapeutic and transformative power of nature. Together, they explore how experiencing the wild fosters understanding, empathy, and personal growth. RATE, REVIEW, SUBSCRIBE TO “DON'T CUT YOUR OWN BANGS” Like your favorite recipe or song, the best things in life are shared. When you rate, review, and subscribe to this podcast, your engagement helps me connect with other listeners just like you. Plus, subscriptions just make life easier for everybody. It's one less thing for you to think about and you can easily keep up to date on everything that's new. So, please rate, review, and subscribe today. DANIELLE IRELAND, LCSW I greatly appreciate your support and engagement as part of the Don't Cut Your Own Bangs community. Feel free to reach out with questions, comments, or anything you'd like to share. You can connect with me at any of the links below. Connect with Eli: Book an adventure HERE - https://sdmdiving.com/ Instagram Connect with Danielle: Watch the show on YouTube Instagram The Treasured Journal Wrestling a Walrus 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 00:13 Eli Martinez: The Adventurer's Journey 01:21 Connecting with Nature and Overcoming Fear 02:18 Building a Dream Career 05:59 Diving into the World of Sharks 12:16 The Power of Social Media and Storytelling 17:59 The Importance of Conservation and Ecotourism 21:40 Personal Growth Through Wildlife Experiences 28:40 Connecting with Nature and Self 29:07 The Lion Tracker's Guide to Life 29:38 Struggles with Anxiety and Self-Doubt 31:04 Emotional Awareness and Growth 32:00 Transformative Experiences in the Wild 35:03 Launching Shark Diver Magazine 35:55 Shifting from Magazine to Excursions 40:49 Dispelling the Predator Myth 48:28 Curiosity and Career Pivots 53:30 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Transcript Eli Martinez Podcast Interview [00:00:00] Danielle: Hello. Hello. This is Danielle Ireland and you are listening to Don't Cut Your Own Banks and Today's Guest. this has been a long time coming for me. I am so excited beyond excited to introduce Eli Martinez. Eli is an adventurer. [00:00:14] He's an explorer, he's an operator and owner of SDM Adventures. It's a group that leads land and ocean safaris. If you have ever seen these wild otherworldly images of people swimming with humpback whales, swimming with orca whales, swimming with crocodiles, swimming with anacondas. There's a good chance that you've stumbled across his images because he is one of the few, right? [00:00:42] It's a pretty small pool of people who make a living doing what he does, Images, they grab your attention, they hook your imagination. But it being on a screen, it's easy to think, well, that's so far removed from my life. what value is there in that for me? Like that's a cool image. But the internet has lots of cool images. [00:01:00] There's a couple of important distinctions and what I think makes this episode so special. What we talk about is dispelling the predator myth and my work as a therapist and his work as a safari guide. They don't seem too related, but there was one common thread that came out of this episode that it's gonna stick with me for a long time. [00:01:21] He's guiding people into the natural world to feel connected to the natural world in a deep and profound way. And when anybody sits with their emotional space. With their feelings. Feelings of discomfort, fear, terror, trauma. That's really hard to do and hard to hold. But when you do and access curiosity, you begin to tap into your true nature. [00:01:49] Your intuition, and so Eli might be talking about sharks and the deep ocean, and I might be talking about feelings, but there is a common thread in language here that makes this episode already one of my favorites. I can't wait for you to hear his story because not only is the work itself that we spent a lot of time talking about, fascinating. [00:02:10] He leads people on wildlife safaris in the ocean, on land. I mean, it's just. What a cool, amazing job. But he built that job. There wasn't an application for him to fill out. He built this from the ground up and there were stumbling blocks, missteps and pivots along the way, and he shares those with us. [00:02:30] So not only can we learn about how could I build a dream that I didn't know was possible, you also have the benefit of. Really getting a sense of what is it like, what is the value, what is the purpose? And I would argue where is the healing in connecting with the natural world, whether that's through a hike or through looking out your window. [00:02:53] And as he states a couple of times, just watch a sunset. Really watch a sunset. So I'm gonna save that. I'm gonna leave that for you there. Thank you for being here. You're gonna love this episode. Welcome, Eli Martinez. [00:03:08] [00:04:18] Danielle: Eli Martinez, thank you so much for being here with Don't cut your own bangs. [00:04:23] This is not the first time we've met, but this is the first time we've done a podcast together and I am like the little kid in me who wanted to be a marine biologist when she first knew what dolphins were. [00:04:34] This feels like just she feels so greedy with excitement to talk to someone who has made a living, being an adventure traveler and swimming with animals and interacting with animals all over the world. So I'm very excited to talk to you. [00:04:47] Eli: Actually, I was a little self-conscious about it because of, because of your background in psychology. [00:04:52] I'm like, okay, all right. where do I start? [00:04:55] Danielle: You know what? Yes. your family actually told me to schedule this podcast interview so that we could really get into what makes Eli tick. No, no, no, no, no., This is a celebration what I'm curious about personally, not just professionally working as a therapist, but I love understanding what leads people down, whatever path they end on. [00:05:16] And probably a lot of that is because I mistakenly thought during my twenties that you went through the school system. You graduate with a degree, you start working in that career, and you follow all of the steps to be a good. Citizen and that was not my path, and it was a lot more twisty and turny and there were a lot of pivots and I can see that now as of value. [00:05:43] But, in those moments where I thought I knew what I was going to be doing and life took me in a different direction, it. Knocked me down pretty hard I think there were a lot of moments where I felt like I was failing or wasn't doing it right, using air quotes of whatever it is. [00:05:59] And so someone like you who, are a storyteller, explorer, wildlife photographer, and have spent your life chasing the wild. you lead ocean and land wildlife, safaris. I love that distinction. Ocean and land, wildlife safaris. [00:06:15] There is not, you can't go to high school and then college and then just start doing what you're doing. There's no Reddit, there's no LinkedIn interview that you can fulfill to make that a career. You had to chisel that together. And so I really wanna understand that more. how you built this dream. [00:06:36] What seems from afar, like a dream life? And I'm sure it is many days, but I wanna know how you did it. [00:06:43] Eli: animals have always been like my first love, as a child, I can remember my first toys were animals. my dream as a child was to become a wildlife veterinarian. that was the only way I knew that I could actually physically be around animals that, 'cause I had no idea about wildlife guiding or photography or storytelling [00:07:05] So veterinarian was the only way I could get close to a zebra or a giraffe. And I said, that's what I want to do. So as a child, that was like that one dream that I had. And of course, life gets in the way and I went to a completely different route. I actually went to school to be a motorcycle mechanic. [00:07:23] So what? [00:07:24] Danielle: Yeah. [00:07:24] Eli: That's [00:07:25] Danielle: definitely a different route. [00:07:26] Eli: Yeah. No, it was, I fell in love with race bikes and I wanted to travel the world. look, me being a mechanic for race teams, that was my thing. I love motorcycles, but I like wrenching them. I like working on them more than I like writing them for, it's just my DNA, just how I like to be. [00:07:43] Fast forward a bunch of years, I fell in love with shark diving. I went scuba diving and on my very first. Dive. I saw a shark and it terrified me. It excited me. filled me with everything that I enjoyed about wildlife to begin with. [00:08:00] And it was coming out of the water that I realized I knew absolutely nothing about sharks. Everything I thought I knew was wrong. [00:08:09] Mm-hmm. , [00:08:10] So I, came outta the water that day and I was just completely fascinated, really obsessed with learning more about sharks. So I, I bought every book I could find. [00:08:20] I read as much as I could about them, and I just was like, I gotta get in the water with them some more. And it was on my very first, travel. I went to The Bahamas and it was on that experience is. What got me on this path that I'm on today was just like, I want to dive with sharks. I want to travel to exotic places. [00:08:41] I want to meet amazing people, [00:08:43] Danielle: How do you wait? Do okay? I, okay, so we're gonna get to the how. So you fell in love, and now it's the how, but I wanna go back. Do you remember the first shark, like in your, can you access that memory and do you know the shark? [00:08:55] I can. What was it? It was a bull shark. Oh, whoa. Okay. Yeah. that's gnarly. Yeah, that is. okay. The first shark you ever swam with was a bull shark. I don't know why that's like the one that scares me. I, I can relate. So not to put on the therapy hat for, for anything other than just, I find this so interesting that the things that scared me, I wanted to learn more about, I found endlessly interesting. [00:09:21] And when I was young it was the ocean, the deep ocean, And I really became, in the way that a suburban kid could really curious about sharks and very interested in sharks. And I would always talk about them and just rattle off a bunch of shark facts. [00:09:36] And I, as you were talking, you reminded me of the fork in the road moment where I thought. What I thought was I wanted to work with animals. What I realized was, oh, I just kinda like you love turning wrenches more than you love racing. I love learning about animals more than I want to. I'll just tell the story. [00:09:57] When I was, 13 or 14, I applied for a summer job at our Indianapolis Zoo. that really burst my bubble of what that was gonna mean. I wanted to work with animals. But I realized, I just wanted to play with the elephants. I didn't wanna do the dipping dots concession stand. [00:10:14] So there's this sense of you, you were afraid you shared that. I dove with sharks. I swam with a bull shark. I came outta the water. I was afraid and then fascinated. is that something there, is that like a theme for you that you feel a jolt or a rush and then you wanna understand that rush more? [00:10:31] Possibly, [00:10:32] Eli: it was just more of like, when I saw the shark, I had two primal instincts, which was, one was to follow it. And the other was to get outta the water. That was just like those two conflicting feelings that was going through me. [00:10:46] And the, when I was, I ran out of air really quick 'cause it was actually my very first ocean dive. [00:10:51] Okay. So I was sitting on the surface, the dive master sent me up to the surface by myself, which is crazy. And when I think about it, man, I didn't know anything I was doing. I'm just looking down. [00:11:01] I'm just like, really worried the shark is gonna come up and get me 'cause I'm on the surface. And that's all I knew. I always knew. I knew the jaw story. I knew a little, just very small snippets of information on sharks and Yeah. And it was completely opposite of what was happening. the shark wanted nothing to do with us. [00:11:17] It tried to avoid us completely. [00:11:18] Danielle: Yeah. [00:11:19] Eli: Got out of the water and then the whole way back to port, I was just like, okay. He didn't come after us. He didn't want anything to do with this. [00:11:28] Like, why? and it was that moment that was just like, after that I got out of the water, I'm like, okay. I gotta know. I gotta know. yeah. [00:11:36] Danielle: what you thought you knew, conflicted with what you experienced, and you were trying to understand that more. [00:11:42] Eli: Right. [00:11:43] Danielle: That's really interesting. I can relate to that. I honestly think that's a big thread of what led me to therapy. I wanted to understand my internal experience more. And I think there's, steps of you're introduced to a concept and then you embody the concept. [00:11:57] you're no longer having to consciously think about it, but really mastery when you're able to teach. And so I think in many ways I wanted to understand that enough to help others, but it began through my own experience and my own curiosity. so I feel like I should mention, How I got connected with you. [00:12:16] I think social media gets a bad rap. it gets a lot of bad press, but thank God for social media. it was in 2012 or 13 and I was watching Shark Week because you always gotta be watching Shark Week. [00:12:27] I was watching Shark Week and the whole episode I was watching was, they were trying to see could large species sharks experience the same temporary paralysis as smaller or baby sharks when they're flipped upside down for study? And I was, of course they're doing all of these great cuts, is it gonna work? [00:12:43] Who knows? Is it gonna work? And of course, they're gonna end it with it working, you're on the edge of your seat. what are they gonna do? What are they gonna do? And they showed a clip of you with a tiger shark in The Bahamas and you were like hand feeding it. And then you stimulated the and you correct me with all the science terms, but you were like stimulating the sout and it just put it in this little trance and then you just tipped it upright. [00:13:06] You just, it stood vertical and you held it just, a shark, a tiger shark. Yeah. I don't know. Was like 16 feet, 15 feet, something like that. [00:13:15] Eli: Possibly. yeah. Anyway, it [00:13:17] Danielle: blew my mind and I think I just made a post about it. I took a picture of my tv. I was like, my mind is blown. [00:13:24] And then some weeks later you commented, thanks so much for the shout out. And that was one of those first moments. That really connected with oh, you can actually connect with the people who were doing things that you think is cool. it just, it really bridged this gap. And then once, of course, I found out what you and your family, 'cause it's a family band, it's like a whole, it's the whole family involved on these excursions. [00:13:46] But as soon as I made that connection, my husband and I signed up to, swim with Whale Sharks with you and your wife, and your son and your daughter. So that's just, I feel like I gotta give credit to, the algorithm and the innerwebs for making that possible. 'cause I don't know if I would've even thought that was a possibility. [00:14:05] Eli: Oh, that's, thanks for sharing that. I, man, that story just,, [00:14:09] Danielle: mm-hmm. [00:14:10] Eli: Wow. Just flooded with memory with that little piece. [00:14:13] Danielle: Yeah, it was, [00:14:14] When I set out to write a book, I only knew two things. One was I wanted to make big feelings, feel less scary and more approachable, and I wanted to bring some lightness to the feelings themselves. What I know to be true as a therapist is that emotions are energy in motion. They have information to tell you to inform the next right step to take and self-doubt, fear, anxiety, live in that space between knowing and not knowing. [00:14:38] The second thing I knew was that I wanted to have fun in the process of making. This thing. The result is this wrestling a walrus for little people with big feelings, beautifully illustrated children's book that has a glossary at the end for some of the bigger feeling words. What this story does in a light and loving way is create context for those relationships. [00:14:58] You can't change those people that you wish would treat you different. The things in life that we cannot control and yet we face that are hard. This book, it's a conversation starter for any littles in your life. Who want to create more safety and love and patience for some of those experiences. So hop one over to the show notes. [00:15:16] You can pick it up@amazon.com, barge de noble.com or my website. I hope that you do because I believe in this little book. I freaking love this little book, and I cannot wait to hear your experience with it. Thanks so much for listening and get back to the episode. [00:15:29] Eli: those are fun, fun shows to do. and there's definitely a lot of benefits to social media, I think. I think it's a great tool. It's a great servant, A terrible master. [00:15:41] That's the best way I can describe it. said. yeah, it is just, there's so many benefits to, connecting with people on the other side of the world to learning about unique places, to learning unique things. it's been one of my most important tools when finding new places for wildlife. [00:15:58] but on the flip side, there's sometimes there's just too much information out there and too much because of it. it's made life difficult for wildlife, difficult for kids, difficult for, it's just. It can be too much. And that's the only downside [00:16:14] Danielle: it's like, how we engage with it. It's an extension of how we are showing up with it, what we're looking for, what interests us. [00:16:21] what I love about how you show up there and how your family shows up there with images is it really, I think, highlights How we operate. we look first and then we listen second. And so you'll capture these images or these videos that seem other worldly and it catches your attention enough. [00:16:43] And if you can hold that attention enough, and it probably helps that your message is consistent of conservation, understanding, connecting with nature. when you can capture someone's attention with an image, just what happened with me? [00:16:56] And then you can maybe engage in a dialogue . And it actually leads me to something, that you mentioned. Something I caught from your website that I really liked this language, that when people experience the wild, they understand and when they understand they care. [00:17:12] And that sounds much like the experience you had swimming with the bull shark. But I wanna know more about that because you, not only through, your media outlets and the content you put out, but you are handholding, you're guiding people into the water or in, ocean and land safaris. [00:17:31] And I wanna understand more about this concept 'cause I think it's true of emotions too. If you can't articulate what you're feeling, then when people don't have language for what they're experiencing, they usually shut down and collapse or they explode with rage. it's gotta go somewhere. [00:17:46] And so when you can create context and language, you also create safety. it seems like with what you're guiding people through, you want them to understand and so that they care. yeah, tell me more. [00:17:59] Eli: Yeah, that has a lot to do with just experiences being out in nature. [00:18:04] I think nature is probably one of the best doctors on the planet. first and foremost, I think that people being around wildlife, people being in the ocean, people being in the wilderness, it replenishes your soul. It recharges your batteries. I think it just makes you a better person. [00:18:21] it's through these connections and meeting wildlife and having people go out there in the wild and see these places and see these animals and they come back and they tell stories, they tell their friends. [00:18:31] And hopefully it's through those kind of connections that, [00:18:36] Conservation comes out of, like at the end of the day, the animals win. That's what you're hoping for is for the animals to win because these are voiceless souls on our planet that share this world with us. and without these people, without these experiences, they're completely vulnerable for lack of better words, to bigger business, to sadly going away, for lack of better words. [00:18:56] Danielle: I think one of the biggest problems that animals have is that they are second class citizens on our planet that we share. And unfortunately, we're seeing our wild places disappear. alarmingly fast, and it's, I think that conservation ecotourism are probably the only tools left that are going to save, what's left of our wild places, what's left of our wildlife, Let's try to get some people on your wildlife safaris. What would be, so if someone's listening who has maybe like me, just from a television screen or from a social media account, wondered, that would be cool, but that could never work for me. I could never do something like that. [00:19:40] That it just, when you're. Physical reality or even your mental reality feels so removed from the wild world. we live in boxed rooms and we're so connected with screens and, my wildlife outside my window is squirrels, cardinals. [00:19:58] Eli: That's perfect. [00:19:58] Danielle: So how would you speak life into someone saying yes to an adventure and where do they begin? [00:20:07] Eli: Oh man. I think it really, first and foremost, it all comes down to your comfort level. I think that there's so many ways for people to reconnect with nature, whether it's hiking, whether it's biking, whether it's going to the beach for the day, watching a sunset. [00:20:23] Just watching a sunset is so powerful. I think it's so important. I don't think we do it enough. I think that is probably the simplest way to remember that you are a part of something bigger and as simple as it sounds, it is so important. now watching a sunset in an amazing place is even 10 times better. [00:20:42] It's that much more powerful. just, trying to reconnect with nature, I think the important part to remind people that yes. The earth is here. She is alive and she breathes and she's got a heartbeat every day. And I think that sunset is her heartbeat. [00:20:55] and it's a great way to see it. [00:20:57] Danielle: I just saw, I think it was nasa, release some footage of a particular, some type of lens on a satellite that was able to actually detect a pulse on the earth. [00:21:08] Like the earth has a heartbeat, but I'm sure the more sciencey people have another way of explaining it. but that it caught my attention. And that feels just right on par with what you're saying when the heart space and the head space connect, I think that's where magic happens. [00:21:22] Like when you can believe it in your mind, but then you experience it in your body, that is, powerful. I think everybody needs to have an experience like getting into the deep ocean or going out into the wild nature. I really think everybody should have that in their life at least once. [00:21:40] But I wanna share a little bit about what my experience was like , with, um, you and your wife swimming with winter parks, because it was there was so much momentum for me built up into what I thought that experience was gonna be because from the time I understood. Little mermaid, Disney to the time I, could name the dolphin body parts and thought that's what I wanted to be like this, there was so much emotional charge and I'm gonna go in the water and I'm gonna swim and it's gonna be great. [00:22:11] And I just had this idea that I'm gonna connect with this shark. We're gonna make eye contact and it's gonna, we're gonna just be on the same vibe. so many expectations that I never expressed, but they were all there. I was, probably trying to keep it cool. But, no,the reality it, the i'll, I will just to skip to the end, the reality far exceeds whatever I imagine. [00:22:31] the first day was me reconciling what I thought it would be and what it really was. Getting on a little charter boat going way out in the middle of the gulf and. Then, I think sturgeon were spawning and that was what was drawing the sharks. And so it made visibility like all of these little eggs were refracting light. [00:22:51] So it was this very sparkly, but also sometimes visibility was funky. And the thing that I couldn't wrap my head around was from the boat. You could look out at the water and see, I don't know, a dozen whale sharks at any given time, but then you get in the water and adrenaline hits and I don't know where they are. [00:23:13] I can't see them. It's just having very little to no experience in the deep water. That was such a jolt and a shock to my system. and then being in the water with an animal, 20 feet, 25 feet, 30 feet long, My nervous system just didn't know how to compute. it was so much, I don't think I'd ever been that tired, ever. [00:23:37] Just, it took so much outta me. And then, day 2, 3, 4, each day got a little easier 'cause I had a better idea of what to expect. And also I didn't, you're covered in fish eggs, you're culvert in fish eggs. So the, the imagination that I would become this mermaid this other worldly creature and have this like soul bond with a whale shark, it wasn't that. [00:23:59] But the real life experience was incredible too. But I just, I don't, and I guess I don't really know where I'm leading with the question, but how do you see when having guided so many people through these moments? Like for somebody who's thinking about. Possibly planning an experience like that? [00:24:20] Like what, how do you prepare what would be good for someone to prepare for what that is like? [00:24:26] Eli: Wow, man. it's so different for everybody. it's just, valid. [00:24:30] Danielle: Valid. Then everybody maybe wants to be [00:24:32] Eli: Yeah. there's a few that want to be mermaids for sure on our trips. I'm not gonna lie. [00:24:38] but yeah, it's just really these animals the whale shark is a great, I call 'em, they're like gateway animals into a bigger world because, when it comes to seeing orcas and whales and of all different species and sharks, a whale shark is possibly, [00:24:55] It's a great ambassador for the species because they're a harmless species. They're just like big giant catfish floating on the surface. and it's a wonderful animal for someone of all ages to experience. it really is, [00:25:10] the whale shark, and I don't know if you had man rays on your trip as well, because Sometimes they show up every other year. The man ray is another, ocean angel. they're just, they're just, the perfect animal for people, for if you wanna. [00:25:24] Experience the ocean. If you wanna experience what life is like in the ocean, in a Disney way, that is the perfect animal to do it with. It's just very safe. it's a phenomenal, way to decide if, you know what? I would like to do more of things like this, or, this was perfect, this was enough. [00:25:43] You know, [00:25:45] Danielle: I wanna go back to something, something that you wrote that I really liked. that reminded me. [00:25:50] Even though we are talking about safari, we're talking about adventure, we're talking about animals, I think the more specific we become in a way, the more universal it becomes. And this quote made me think about a lot of the stuff that you write, it's a Mark Twain quote that travel is fatal to prejudice. [00:26:09] once you see something, you can't unsee something. I wanna speak to the, Why beyond conservation? if I'm not connected to nature, if I'm not connected to animals and I've got enough going on in my life, that conservation, cool, I'm glad someone's taking care of it, but that's not my focus. [00:26:29] What would be a personal selfish reason that would be maybe a call to action that you like? What would be the invitation for somebody individually, not globally, not, for any other reason, like why it could change your life to jump into the deep or get in a Jeep with no top and go drive out to a pride of lions. [00:26:55] what is the reason that you could articulate why somebody should do that? [00:27:00] Eli: I think the wildlife is, they're reminders of where we all came from. we were all of us in our DNA, if you look at the generations of people that have lived on this planet, at some point we were all part of that. We were all out there. [00:27:18] there wasn't this separation between us and our wild places. whether it was the ocean, whether it was a jungle. some of our ancestors had to deal with bears in their front porch. some of our ancestors had to deal with lions walking through camp. [00:27:34] that's something that we have either. Blocked out or forgotten. Obviously we've forgotten just because of generations of separation from it. But we are all part of that. We are all part of this world. beyond our cars and our homes and our clothes, we are part of nature a hundred percent. [00:27:55] We've forgotten this. And I think these are great reminders to remind us, Hey, this is where we all come from. This is, we're not separated from these things. we are very much a part of these things. And if anything, there are so many species that, although they're no longer, relevant in our world, they're so important for our world, not only as reminders, but as part of this giant balance, because we're all connected in some way, in some form. [00:28:23] we're all for lack of better, we're all one. And I think it's important. To remind people that, like we, we need to stay connected. We need to protect these animals because, they're much a part of this earth as we are. and we have to remind people that they're there yeah, that, that's, [00:28:44] This is our home. This is their home. This is our home. [00:28:47] Danielle: And I also, what I'm hearing too, it's they, when you're in communion with nature, you become more in touch with, or in tune with your own natural rhythm, your own self. There's, you might actually, know him or, 'cause I would imagine the community, like the pool you're in terms of career is probably small, I'm just guessing. [00:29:07] But, Boyd Verdi, he's from South Africa, he wrote The Lion Tracker's Guide to Life He has a property in South Africa called Alose. It was a game preserved. Okay. Yeah. Yes, I, and but his work in that book is basically teaching people to track wild animals, helps them become more in touch with the rhythms of nature. [00:29:29] And by, not by default, but through becoming more in tune with tracking nature, you, your track, like your path. So I think so many of the clients I attract are struggling with anxiety, depression, and burnout. And I think a lot of the confusion and self doubt and, head trash is also rooted in, I don't know what I'm supposed to do. [00:29:54] It's that maybe they don't articulate it like that, but it's experienced that way of just, I don't know what I'm supposed to do. As opposed to, I wanna know what I'm called to do. I wanna know what I'm meant to do or what I want to do. my dog never questions when she's hungry, when she's tired, like she is completely embodied because she doesn't have this giant brain getting in her way of everything. [00:30:19] And I love hearing you talk about the more in tune you are with nature, you are reminded that you are nature too. [00:30:27] Eli: it's it's so important for people to stay connected to nature and it's getting worse. I think it's just part of I. [00:30:35] Part of what I feel is that they're completely pulling us away from it. I think that unhealthy feeling, I remember having it as a growing up. I remember there was many times where I didn't know what I wanted to do. I didn't know, what my calling was but I always just, I remember standing there and just looking around saying, something's wrong. [00:31:00] I don't belong here. [00:31:01] Danielle: that's something's wrong. the language I like to use. with clients is, that's usually what gets people into an appointment with me first. It's when I say it's like your smoke detector's going off. 'cause your smoke detector can't tell the difference between burning toast or bacon and a fire in some part of your house, but it's just beeping 'cause it senses smoke, something's wrong. [00:31:20] And so I think a lot of times getting that emotional awareness or that clarity starts with something's wrong and then you sit with that. But then the discomfort, it's like I think about that story with you and the bull shark the first time it's, I either need to chase it and funnel down with it or I need to run away from it. [00:31:40] And I think that tension is what happens every time we hit a big emotion or a fork in the road or we're at a growth edge, we're about to change. but I think that is the. Following the path of curiosity is almost always what leads you down to some new sense of understanding, about yourself or the world. [00:32:00] I wanna, do you have, of all of the experiences you've led other people through, do you have It could be one, it could be more than one, it might even be with a member of your family, but have you seen, like shifts happen in people that just observed? 'cause I have over the years seen many powerful shifts happen in sessions, but it's such an intimate thing, but where you're out in the wild with someone, are there any moments that stand out to you of just being like, whoa, this person is different, or this person is really having an experience here? [00:32:35] Eli: Yeah. I have this one gentleman who. would do adventures. he would do travel on his own, and then he went on one of our trips a very successful, businessman. and I could see that this was just something he was doing for like, and that's interesting. [00:32:54] [00:32:54] Danielle: on [00:32:54] Eli: That's so interesting. Yeah. He was, he was on the trip And he was there to experience the animal, but it was almost like a science project, it wasn't like it was super into the animal. Like he was intellectualizing it. he was, it was like, it wasn't like [00:33:11] a bucket list. It was like, okay, I'm on this journey of I'm gonna photograph wildlife. Now, I've been photographing these other things and I'm gonna photograph wildlife now. we went out there, he had the experience and it was almost like this. [00:33:25] Yeah. You could feel the shift of just now I get it. oh, I got a goosebump thinking about it. Yeah. it was like now. Okay, okay. You know, it was, it was, [00:33:35] Danielle: it was like his body, like it kicked on. [00:33:38] Eli: Yeah. something inside him came alive [00:33:41] And it was just like more. And it was a completely different, more than when he first started and it was something [00:33:47] Danielle: beside him came alive. That gave me chills. I almost wonder if it's the distinction of when you were describing a sunset, like the difference between driving in your car and you're getting somewhere as the sun happens to be going down and you're doing a million other things versus watching a sunset and taking it in. [00:34:08] So not being just a passive observer, but being a present participant in the moment. [00:34:14] Eli: Yeah. Purposely trying to watch, I'm going to this spot because I want to see the sunset, or I'm gonna, I'm gonna stop to put my phone down and I'm gonna watch the sunset. Even if you take your phone, you know you're watching it through your phone as you wanna record it, because that's what we do now. [00:34:31] just that act alone of purposely trying to do that is significant. It is life changing to sometimes for some people. [00:34:38] Danielle: That's awesome. that was a really good answer. I wanna hear a little bit more. So I was circling back, you were starting to connect how that first dive, you were scuba diving, you saw the bull shark, you were swimming up to the surface, and then you almost started to shift to how that led you down this path. [00:34:57] I wanna go back to that and maybe if I could jump forward a little bit more in your story. You created Shark Diver Magazine in 2003, and you said you had 25 publications and then it really, the business model really shifted to your excursions. I wanna know more about, deciding to launch a magazine that sounds so ambitious, 25. [00:35:21] me trying to put a blog out sometimes feels like a real effort. but 25 publications is no small thing. And then you shifted it to excursions. it's one thing to do something yourself as a hobbyist or as an enthusiast, but you're leading people with all varying degrees of experience. [00:35:40] Some people that wanna be, mermaids and you're leading all types of people from all over the world on these trips and you're dealing with a lot of personalities. I would love to know more about how you made that shift from the magazine into leading your safaris. [00:35:55] Eli: Yeah, it was, so I started the magazine, in 2003. I didn't know anything about publishing. I didn't know anything about photography. I didn't know. Anybody in the business. And I had never really written anything outside of my journals before. [00:36:14] Danielle: So it was just like, I am, I'm so excited by this. [00:36:16] You're like, I am gonna build a rocket ship, but I don't have an engineering degree. I don't understand the mechanics. and I've never flown on a plane, but I'm gonna build a rocket ship. [00:36:25] Eli: what I did. Yeah. So I just, I went all in. I've always had a love affair with magazines as far as, any sport that I was into. [00:36:34] Had a magazine dedicated to it with mountain biking, surfing, rock climbing, scuba diving. but there was nothing dedicated to shark diving. And that's the area that I fell in love with. And I said, here's my, and I really was trying to find. A vehicle. And a way to get into the industry, to make a name for myself, coming from Landlock, Texas. [00:36:54] there was, this was my way in. This was an opportunity. And this is all pre-social media, so it was all from scratch and trying to create this business. And, yeah, we did it for eight years. I published 25 issues and it was a lot of fun. And it was, a lot of laying in bed going, what the hell did I do? [00:37:14] Why did I do this to myself? And, this is crazy. And it was fueled by also, I, the first pub, the first magazine I came out with, a family friend. I overheard him in the distance, say I wonder if it's gonna be around in a year. And that, so I wrote those words down and I put it in my office. [00:37:36] and that, inspired me to make it to the first year it was a, and then after that, I made it to the second and the third. it was just this labor of love. This, chance for me to tell stories, chance for me to share this world with people. [00:37:50] because, when I first started and when I was looking through the books, it really felt like, , a, a club. And it really felt more like a researcher's club more than anything else. It was like, the guys who had access to all these amazing places were usually the scientists, the shark scientists, the shark researchers. [00:38:06] And it really didn't feel like it was open to guys like me. And so this is the world that I wanted to create. I wanted to create a world where it was open to. Sharks were accessible to the world. And that's what I wanted to do with this magazine. and what I wanted to do with my storytelling is invite everybody who was really interested in sharks like myself and help them find places where they could dive with these animals and read stories from fellow people like myself that were not all scientists, we're not all research. [00:38:36] yeah. So that was the idea. That was what I really wanted to do when I started the magazine. And then, trying to get advertisers to be interested in us when we had zero subscribers and no real history, and it was just like, mm-hmm. That was an impossible feat. So I don't know where I came up with the idea. [00:38:54] Somebody either shared that idea with me or I was doing my research. I just decided to try to organize, oh, I know what it was. It was one of my potential sponsors asking me to organize a trip. And that's what started the opportunities is it's a great way to raise money. [00:39:12] If I can get people to travel with us, we can use that money to help publish the magazine. Yeah. And that's what the first trips were. So May I ran our first expedition to North Carolina for Sand Tiger Sharks in May of 2003. So that first year coming out of the box, we, we brought some people and we just started doing that. [00:39:32] So from the first year we organized those trips, and then we just, it just kept going. and it was, and it ended up being the way I funded the magazine for the first eight years. I didn't, after that I really didn't chase sponsors very much because I just didn't like, I'd go to a travel show. [00:39:48] And then we, and. It would be, I would end up being that magazine guy that's just trying to get money from me. Yeah. And I didn't like that feeling at all. So I just said, you know what, I don't need to do this. this is what the trips are about. It's reader sponsored, and I can do whatever I want with a magazine. [00:40:04] I can tell the stories the way I want to tell 'em. and so that's what I did. [00:40:08] Danielle: I think because we've all been sold so many different times through so many different channels, it's like you can feel it when it's coming at you. [00:40:15] And nobody likes that. So it's just so much this is what it is, this is what we're doing, this is what I like. gosh, having come from different sales backgrounds and have family and my husband who's in sales, it's like when a sale happens, you're really just offering information. [00:40:31] It's I don't, my guess is you're not selling people ongoing on your trips, right? People are already interested. You're giving them the information and then that's when they say yes. But you're not going out selling people on doing it. I feel like I'm trying to do that for you. 'cause I just think more people need to do it. [00:40:46] You are very intentionally not doing that. I want to acknowledge the predator myth, I found it really interesting that you were passionate about dispelling the predator myth. I wanna understand that better because obviously we all know how sharks are portrayed. [00:41:01] we've seen all those things. but I think the ocean, deep ocean and what we fear in the ocean, it correlates to emotions, big, uncomfortable feelings. I don't think it's called a therapy myth, but there has to be something terribly wrong to seek that type of help or seek that type of guidance. [00:41:20] and I wanna know more in your world, in your space, what is the predator myth and what do you want people to know? [00:41:28] Eli: Oh, for me its exactly what I was brought up believing about sharks is just that, sharks are mindless monsters and they're just out to get you. [00:41:37] And the moment you step in the ocean, there's gonna be a shark down there. And, I've heard this. My entire life that, oh, I'll never jump off a boat into the ocean because there's just sharks waiting. [00:41:47] Danielle: [00:41:47] Eli: me, and it's completely opposite. I really wish that if I just went out into the ocean, jumped off a boat and there'd be a bunch of sharks there, it's just not the reality. [00:41:58] It takes so much work to find these animals. It takes a lot of effort and usually the people That get lucky and say, oh look, there's a great white under my boat. they're the ones who don't wanna see sharks. the people that wanna see sharks like a great white under their boat, never get to see a great white under their boat. [00:42:15] that's just the way nature works. But, yeah, for me it was more about, trying to help people pass this prejudice, pass this belief system that is ingrained in us, that's actually probably ingrained in our DNA [00:42:27] So it's very much ingrained in all of us from the beginning. And the more I understood sharks, the more I wanted to get rid of that stigma as best I could. Yeah. I started doing a lot of, Talks at schools and helping kids with, sharing, what I know about sharks, and I've through the years, really figured out what works and what doesn't. [00:42:48] And I used to show pictures of sharks and try to get people to dispel their fear with just a picture of shark, but in their mind, it's still a shark. [00:42:57] But when I started sharing videos of myself with a shark in my arms and giving a back rub and rolling them upside down and just, like a shark sticking his face between my knees so I could scratch his back. [00:43:10] and showing these kids these images and showing these kids that, this other side, and you could see it, you see it in the teachers. they're just like, wait. Mm-hmm. Wait, what? Wait, what? It's like you wake them up, you wake up something primal in them and say, wait, that's possible. [00:43:24] Danielle: yes. That you just said it, 'cause I think that you don't have to prove to someone what you're saying is true, but what you're showing them is it's possible. I think it's when you don't believe it's possible, that's when people freeze or shut down or wanna give up or stop. [00:43:39] And it's when we're afraid we want control, we want contracts, we want guarantees, we want promises, we need something ironclad. But, there is no guarantee. But knowing that, there's something possible that's really, yeah. I feel that really deeply. Yeah. you're igniting possibility in people. [00:43:58] It, you also just reminded me too, I love Leopard Sharks. I've never swam with them, but, I love leopard Sharks and I feel like that. That shark more than any other, you see them almost act like little dogs, like just anyone listening, just Google videos of like leopard shark pups. And they swear, they just act like dogs. [00:44:14] So cute down. They're beautiful. What is the, what do you think is the biggest gap in our understanding of not just predators, but marine life, wildlife? what's our biggest gap in understanding? [00:44:29] Eli: I think it's disconnect. like you said earlier, it's, oh, I'm glad somebody out there is doing it. [00:44:34] that kind of thing. It's it's not for me. I got too many things I'm doing in my life, my life is a mess, Lack of empathy for something. and that has to do with disconnect because it's more of, it's talking about the shark, [00:44:46] it's one thing to talk about, it's another thing for people to see it. And, in them, me, roll the tiger. just like open that up in your mind, the fascination in your mind of oh wow, like I didn't even know this was a thing. Or if it's even possible. And that's what I've tried to do [00:45:01] predators and with crocodiles and anacondas and all the other animals that I dive with is just showing the other side of these animals and, their place in the world And how important they are. And it's not just, when we jump in the water with an anaconda and if, people are so surprised to know that it's. [00:45:18] the Anaconda is terrified and all he's trying to do is hide from us. So you're looking at a 18 foot, 20 foot long snake. the moment I jump in the water and he's just like, where do I hide? it's like he's completely terrified of my presence. [00:45:32] [00:45:32] Danielle: the crocodile, those images just, everyone should visit Eli's, social media channels as soon as you, you stop listening to this episode, just go scroll through and look. But the crocodile one, those, late night scrolling, when I see one of those images that stops me in my tracks, and I thought I was pretty open-minded with nature, but man, that, that makes the hairs on the back of my neck stand up. [00:45:54] That's wild. [00:45:56] Eli: I used to say Crocs of the new Sharks. Okay, sure. I feel that makes sense. So yeah, because for years, right? when I started the magazine in 2003, it was still Steve Irwin. Mm-hmm. The late great Steve Irwin was still diving with Tiger Sharks in a cage. [00:46:11] on his show, he was showing, that diving with them in a cage. so for years they're like,it's impossible to dive with tigers outside of a cage. Then, in The Bahamas and Fiji, they're diving with tigers outside the cage and they're like, you can do it during the day, but you can't do it at night. [00:46:27] So we started diving with tigers at night, and then they're like, you can do that with a tiger, but you can't do it with a great white. Yeah, we're diving outside the cage with great whites. And so, I mean, it was just like, well, you could do it with sharks, but you can't do it with crocodiles. [00:46:39] Danielle: You're right. You're right. It's the same prejudice, just moving into a different face. [00:46:44] Eli: Right. Oh, interesting. The same thing with orcas too. Like you can, when they're like, you can't swim with an orca. we started swimming with orcas and then, you can do it with these, but you can't do it with the pelagic orcas because, they're a lot more aggressive and they eat sea lions. [00:46:56] And so we're diving with those species too. it's just they're always trying to find, and it's usually people who don't swim with these animals that are creating the ideas that people believe, [00:47:07] Danielle: you know? Mm-hmm. Yeah. So it's like the people that aren't the mechanics or the one trying to pump the brakes. [00:47:12] Um, I, so I saw on your social media just this morning that you said the duck bill platypus is your unicorn. Yes. That was, it wasn't intended to be a question, but I have to ask, why is the Depa plat picture your unicorn [00:47:24] Eli: as a kid? I, that was one of the first most exotic animals I had ever seen. [00:47:31] Danielle: Yeah. [00:47:31] Eli: This book in second grade, that I read about the platypus and it was, the fact that it lays eggs and that it's got a duck bill and it looks like a beaver, but it's not. and it was just a fascination was born in that moment. And it was something that like, I have to see this animal. [00:47:50] Like I just have to, so it's always been, it's been my unicorn. I have, I'm ashamed to say I've never been to Australia. [00:47:57] But as soon as I do, that is like task number one. I gotta see a platypus like this. Okay. [00:48:03] Danielle: that was gonna be my follow up question because I embarrassingly don't know where the poses live. So I was gonna ask you where would one, find one. Okay. So Australia. Perfect. I actually think there's a couple of Australian listeners. I don't know where in Australia. I just see this map and wherever it's highlighted that shows where people have downloaded episodes. [00:48:20] So anyone in Australia don't miss your opportunity to catch a platypus because Eli's gonna come snap some photos. Okay. So we're nearing the end and I'm really excited to lay out the don't cut your own bangs moment with you. 'cause I have a feeling you probably have too many that could just fill up its own episode. [00:48:41] But I would love to know what a don't cut your own bang moment is for you. [00:48:45] Eli: I spent a big part of my youth trying to become a professional bull writer growing up in Texas. What. [00:48:57] Danielle: Okay. Okay. This is good. This is already, this is already one of the top two. Okay. Go on. [00:49:01] Eli: So I wanted to be a world champion bull rider. [00:49:04] I ate, drank, dream, slept, dreamed bull riding. I was in love with the sport. [00:49:09] And it was during, I was working on my pro permit when I cracked my hip at a show and I gave myself three months to heal. And it was during that time, one of my best friends got a scuba diving certification and he was telling me about it. [00:49:25] So I had three months off. So I took the time to get my scuba certification. [00:49:30] Danielle: After I got scuba certified, I went, I just wanna, I just wanna put a brief pause. So your time off was actually you healing a fractured hip. You weren't. Oh, okay. So in your off time with a fractured hip, you got your scuba certification? [00:49:45] Eli: Yes, exactly. Okay. Okay. Cool. Okay, go on, go on. [00:49:51] So it was on that, on that bowl that I, when I cracked my hip, I got, I got scuba certified. I went to Kmel, I saw a shark. I came back from that adventure. I was, I went to my next rodeo and I was behind the chutes. And I fell off my bowl and all I had, I usually would throw a fit. When I would buck off, I would just, so angry at myself. [00:50:15] But off, after that ride, I was behind the chutes and I had Caribbean music, blue water, white sand sharks floating through my mind. I was like, I'm done. I'm going shark diving. And, so not becoming a professional bull rider was the best thing that never happened to me. [00:50:34] Danielle: Oh, that is so, that is good. [00:50:39] And I feel like those, those moments, that perspective is unfortunately earned in hindsight. It's so hard to trust in those moments when you're down with a fractured hip or saying goodbye to an old dream, feeling like you're starting over. That is hard. I mean, in your magazine was that too? But you can even see now in the full expression of what your business is, how learning to tell stories, learning to create a narrative, learning to take images and then not just take images that are clear and focus, but that are also telling a visual story. [00:51:18] And you've passed that on to your daughter who, she's a wildlife photographer in the making. I mean she is and is continuing to be, but it's like all of those steps. But it's, all of those things led to the next thing, but I think it only could have, because you followed the curiosity as opposed to maybe drowning in what you were losing. [00:51:41] You allowed yourself to become curious about where you wanted to go. And I think that's a really remarkable quality. That's a good, that's a great emotionally resilient quality. [00:51:52] Eli: Yeah. Mm-hmm. Well, thanks. I just, uh, yeah. It was, it was, that was a huge chunk of my life that I just I gave up, but it felt right. [00:52:02] It felt right. And it was just like, that's why I think maybe that. Let's see if he's still around in a year. Doing that came from just because I was like, okay, he is gonna be a bull rider now. He is gonna be a shark diver. [00:52:15] Danielle: Yes. my background was on ballroom dance. I taught, before that I did commercial acting. [00:52:20] my plan was to move to la I had a very similar, about face, very big pivot and started teaching ballroom dance. Did that for about seven years. And I just felt that pressure where I'm about to grow outta my shell. I knew it was not this, but I wasn't crystal clear on what that was. [00:52:38] I just knew not this. And so little step by little step, I found my way in grad school and I was, about 11 years older than every other person in that particular class when I decided to switch careers and do what I'm doing now. But yeah, I always appreciate when people can share those moments like that. [00:52:58] 'cause I think what I'm doing is trying to build up a bank of stories that would've comforted those versions of me that was just so terrified about to do something new. . [00:53:08] This was so exciting. Thank you for being here. I'm excited for everybody to, check out your account, look at all your images, sign up for a trip, just take the leap, put a deposit down on an adventure. [00:53:22] Just scroll through. Pick an animal that terrifies you and just say yes to that one. I can't wait for everybody to hear this. Awesome. Thank you so much. [00:53:30] Thank you so much for tuning into this week's episode of Don't Cut Your Own Bangs. I hope that you enjoyed it as much as I did recording it, because this in so many ways was a dream come true if you couldn't tell by the episode itself. I wanna leave you with , a quote that I pulled from Eli that was said in the episode, but really is the heart of what this episode is, as well as what I hope to bring to every episode. [00:53:55] When people experience the wild, they understand and when they understand they care If you replace the wild with the self. When people experience the self, they understand and when they understand they care. The more I understand my own emotional landscape, the more equipped and empowered I feel to navigate it. [00:54:22] The more empathetic, the more compassionate, the more connected I feel with the people in my life. The people who I believe have wronged me with my past. I feel more hopeful for my future. That connection to the self, our essential self or nature, the natural world around us is I think what makes us unique in the experience we get to have on this planet. [00:54:47] So if you haven't already decided you're gonna book your adventure, this might be your call. Whether that adventure is outside your window looking at a sunset, [00:54:58] but I want that for you. I want that for me, and I think we all deserve to have that kind of magic. We can make it if we want it. Thank you for tuning in this week. I look forward to catching you next time, and as always, I hope you continue to have a wonderful day. [00:55:11]

The Who What Wear Podcast: Rhode Cosmetic Chemist and BeautyStat Founder Ron Robinson on Crafting Cult Favorite Products and the Buzzy Ingredient That's Not Worth the Hype

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 2, 2025 19:14

Ron Robinson is the founder of BeautyStat and the cosmetic chemist behind Hailey Bieber's skincare line, Rhode. Robinson began his career at Clinique in the '90s and, over the past two decades, has worked on products for industry giants like Revlon, Avon, L'Oréal, and Lancôme. He launched BeautyStat as an educational platform for beauty enthusiasts in 2009 but ultimately moved into developing his own product line in 2019 with the launch of his groundbreaking, ultra-potent vitamin C formulation. Celebs took notice, and Hailey Bieber quickly reached out to bring him on as a partner in what would become Rhode. In this episode, Robinson chats with Who What Wear Beauty Director Erin Jahns about the science behind successful products and which ingredients are worth the hype.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Alyssa Wasko Stein: Founder and Designer of Donni